Adult Blue Dragon

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Adult Blue Dragon Introduction

As you venture deeper into the arid expanse of the desert, the air grows heavy with an electric charge, a foreboding sign of the presence of a creature both majestic and terrifying. The Adult Blue Dragon, a master of the skies and sands, commands respect and fear in equal measure. Its scales shimmer like polished sapphires under the relentless sun, each one a testament to its age and power. The dragon's eyes, a piercing azure, seem to hold the very essence of the storm, crackling with an intensity that can freeze the bravest of hearts.

Blue Dragons are known for their cunning and territorial nature, often seen soaring high above their domain, surveying the land with an air of regal authority. They are meticulous planners, preferring to outwit their foes rather than rely solely on brute strength. When provoked, however, their wrath is swift and merciless, unleashing bolts of lightning that dance across the sky, leaving nothing but scorched earth in their wake.

Their lairs are typically found within vast networks of caverns beneath the desert sands, where they hoard treasures and secrets alike. These subterranean sanctuaries are often guarded by elaborate traps and illusions, designed to deter even the most determined of intruders. Legends speak of ancient blue dragons who have lived for centuries, their wisdom and power growing with each passing year, becoming almost god-like in their dominion over the desert.

Stories told by desert nomads speak of a time when a great blue dragon, known as the Storm King, ruled the skies with an iron claw. It is said that he could summon storms at will, his roar echoing like thunder across the dunes. Though the Storm King has long since vanished, his legacy endures, and many believe that his descendants still roam the desert, watching and waiting for the right moment to reclaim their ancestor's throne.

Adult Blue Dragon Skills & Traits

Skills

• Perception +11
• Stealth +5

Senses

• Blindsight 60 ft.
• Darkvision 120 ft.
• Passive Perception 21

Languages

• Common
• Draconic

Abilities

• Amphibious: The dragon can breathe air and water.
• Legendary Resistance (3/Day): If the dragon fails a saving throw, it can choose to succeed instead.

Actions

• Multiattack: The dragon can use its Frightful Presence. It then makes three attacks: one with its bite and two with its claws.
• Bite: Melee Weapon Attack: +11 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target. Hit: 17 (2d10 + 6) piercing damage.
• Claw: Melee Weapon Attack: +11 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 13 (2d6 + 6) slashing damage.
• Tail: Melee Weapon Attack: +11 to hit, reach 15 ft., one target. Hit: 15 (2d8 + 6) bludgeoning damage.
• Frightful Presence: Each creature of the dragon's choice that is within 120 feet of the dragon and aware of it must succeed on a DC 16 Wisdom saving throw or become frightened for 1 minute. A creature can repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its turns, ending the effect on itself on a success. If a creature's saving throw is successful or the effect ends for it, the creature is immune to the dragon's Frightful Presence for the next 24 hours.
• Lightning Breath (Recharge 5-6): The dragon exhales lightning in a 90-foot line that is 5 feet wide. Each creature in that line must make a DC 19 Dexterity saving throw, taking 66 (12d10) lightning damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one.

Legendary Actions

• The dragon can take 3 legendary actions, choosing from the options below. Only one legendary action option can be used at a time and only at the end of another creature's turn. The dragon regains spent legendary actions at the start of its turn.
• Detect: The dragon makes a Wisdom (Perception) check.
• Tail Attack: The dragon makes a tail attack.
• Wing Attack (Costs 2 Actions): The dragon beats its wings. Each creature within 10 feet of the dragon must succeed on a DC 20 Dexterity saving throw or take 13 (2d6 + 6) bludgeoning damage and be knocked prone. The dragon can then fly up to half its flying speed.

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Battle Tips for the Adult Blue Dragon

The Adult Blue Dragon is a formidable opponent, known for its cunning intelligence and mastery of lightning-based attacks. Dungeon Masters can utilize this creature to create challenging and memorable encounters for their players. Here are some tips on how to effectively use an Adult Blue Dragon in battle:

Strategies for Dungeon Masters

• Terrain Advantage: Blue Dragons are native to arid, desert environments. Use this to your advantage by incorporating sandstorms, rocky outcrops, and mirages into the battlefield. These elements can obscure vision and provide the dragon with opportunities to ambush or retreat.
• Lightning Breath: The dragon's lightning breath is a powerful weapon. Position the dragon to maximize the number of targets hit by this line attack. Consider using high ground or narrow passages to funnel players into a single line.
• Illusions and Deception: Blue Dragons are known for their ability to create illusions. Use this to mislead players, creating false images of the dragon or hiding its true location.

Coordinated Attacks with Multiple Dragons

• Flanking Maneuvers: If multiple Blue Dragons are present, they can coordinate to flank the party. One dragon can engage the players head-on while another attacks from the side or rear, dividing the party's attention.
• Overlapping Breath Attacks: Coordinate the timing of their breath attacks to create zones of denial, forcing players to move into unfavorable positions or take significant damage.
• Communication and Strategy: Blue Dragons are intelligent and capable of telepathic communication. Use this to plan complex strategies, such as feigned retreats or synchronized attacks.

Retreat and Survival Tactics

• Strategic Retreats: If the battle turns against the dragon, it can use its superior speed and flight to retreat. Use illusions or environmental hazards to cover its escape.
• Regrouping with Allies: A retreating dragon can regroup with other dragons or minions to launch a counterattack. Consider having a network of caves or hidden lairs where the dragon can recover and plan its next move.
• Feigning Weakness: A cunning dragon might pretend to be more injured than it is, luring players into a trap or ambush when they pursue.

By leveraging the Adult Blue Dragon's strengths and cunning, Dungeon Masters can create dynamic and challenging encounters that test the strategic thinking and adaptability of their players.