Fauna, Companions & Familiars
Many Drakonians form lifelong bonds with a dragon companion, a partnership of mutual respect and power. The dragons are the most iconic creatures of Drakon, and the Drakonians have tamed some of these mighty beasts.
Notable Creatures of Drakon
- Dragons: The greatest and most powerful creatures of Drakon. They come in five elemental varieties corresponding to the five clans: fire, water, earth, air, and shadow. Bonded dragons serve as mounts, companions, and magical partners.
- Fire-breathing Drakes: Smaller cousins of the true dragons, these creatures roam the volcanic highlands in packs. While not as intelligent as dragons, they are formidable predators.
- Lava Worms: Enormous burrowing creatures that tunnel through volcanic rock. They are attracted to heat and mineral deposits. Their tunnels sometimes provide natural passages through otherwise impassable terrain.
- Aether Drakes: Serpent-like dragons with shimmering, iridescent scales. They possess control over aether (spiritual energy) and can phase through solid objects. They serve as guardians of ancient magical sites and are rarely seen by humans.
- Bone Wyverns: Dragon-like creatures with skeletal bodies and leathery wings. They possess poisonous breath and a strong necromantic aura. Created by dark magic, they are used to guard necromancer lairs and dark relics. They represent a corrupted form of draconic power that the Drakonians view with deep revulsion.
The Dragon Bond
The bond between a Drakonian and their dragon partner is the most sacred relationship in Drakonian culture, surpassing even familial bonds in spiritual significance. The bonding process begins during the Rite of the Hatching, when a newly hatched dragon may choose a Drakonian companion by approaching and touching snouts
an act known as the First Breath. Not every hatchling chooses, and not every Drakonian is chosen; the bond is considered a gift from Tiamat and cannot be forced. Once bonded, the pair shares an empathic link that deepens over time, eventually allowing the communication of complex thoughts and emotions.
Flameweed and Other Companion Plants
Beyond fauna, the hardy flameweed is the most important plant companion, used for medicine, as a spice, and in certain ritual practices.