Adult Gold Dragon

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Adult Gold Dragon Introduction

As you venture deeper into the heart of the ancient forest, the air grows warm and tinged with a faint, metallic scent. The trees part to reveal a sunlit clearing, where the ground is carpeted with golden leaves that shimmer like coins in the dappled light. Here, amidst the tranquil beauty of nature, resides a creature of legend and majesty—the Adult Gold Dragon.

The Gold Dragon is a magnificent sight to behold, its scales gleaming with the luster of polished gold, each one catching the light in a dazzling display. Its eyes, deep pools of molten amber, seem to hold the wisdom of ages, watching with a serene yet piercing gaze. The dragon's wings, vast and powerful, are edged with a delicate filigree of gold, and when unfurled, they cast a shadow that speaks of both grace and might.

Known for their benevolent nature, Gold Dragons are the epitome of nobility and justice. They are often found in secluded, idyllic locations, such as this forest glade, or high atop mist-shrouded mountains where they can survey the lands they protect. These dragons are not mere beasts of power; they are wise and ancient beings, often serving as guardians of knowledge and champions of the downtrodden.

Legends speak of Gold Dragons as the keepers of ancient secrets and the bearers of great prophecies. It is said that those who earn the favor of a Gold Dragon may receive guidance or aid in times of dire need. However, they are also fierce adversaries to those who threaten the balance of the world, their wrath as fiery as the breath they unleash.

As you stand in the presence of such a creature, the air seems to hum with a sense of awe and reverence. The Gold Dragon, with its regal bearing and timeless wisdom, is a reminder of the wonders and mysteries that lie within the world, waiting to be discovered by those brave enough to seek them.

Adult Gold Dragon Skills & Traits

Skills

• Perception +16
• Insight +12
• Persuasion +12
• Stealth +7

Senses

• Blindsight 60 ft.
• Darkvision 120 ft.
• Passive Perception 26

Languages

• Common
• Draconic
• Can understand and speak any language

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: +14 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target. Hit: 19 (2d10 + 8) piercing damage.
• Claw: Melee Weapon Attack: +14 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 15 (2d6 + 8) slashing damage.
• Tail: Melee Weapon Attack: +14 to hit, reach 15 ft., one target. Hit: 17 (2d8 + 8) 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 19 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.
• Breath Weapons (Recharge 5–6): The dragon uses one of the following breath weapons:
  • Fire Breath: The dragon exhales fire in a 60-foot cone. Each creature in that area must make a DC 21 Dexterity saving throw, taking 66 (12d10) fire damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one.
  • Weakening Breath: The dragon exhales gas in a 60-foot cone. Each creature in that area must succeed on a DC 21 Strength saving throw or have disadvantage on Strength-based attack rolls, Strength checks, and Strength saving throws 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.

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 22 Dexterity saving throw or take 15 (2d6 + 8) bludgeoning damage and be knocked prone. The dragon can then fly up to half its flying speed.

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Battle Tips for an Adult Gold Dragon

The Adult Gold Dragon is a formidable and wise creature, often serving as a guardian of justice and a protector of the innocent. As a Dungeon Master, utilizing this majestic dragon in battle can create an epic and memorable encounter for your players. Here are some tips on how to effectively use an Adult Gold Dragon in combat:

Using the Adult Gold Dragon in Battle

• Strategic Positioning: The Adult Gold Dragon can take advantage of its flying ability to control the battlefield. Use its flight to stay out of reach of melee attackers and to position itself for optimal use of its breath weapon.
• Breath Weapon: The dragon's fire breath is a powerful tool. Use it to target clusters of enemies, maximizing its area of effect. Consider using the dragon's legendary actions to reposition or prepare for another breath attack.
• Legendary Actions: Utilize the dragon's legendary actions to maintain pressure on the players. Tail attacks can keep melee fighters at bay, while wing attacks can knock enemies prone, disrupting their plans.
• Spellcasting: The Adult Gold Dragon has access to a variety of spells. Use spells like Detect Thoughts to anticipate player strategies or Sanctuary to protect allies.

Coordinating with Multiple Creatures

• Allied Creatures: Pair the Adult Gold Dragon with creatures that complement its abilities. For example, a group of griffons or hippogriffs can provide aerial support, while ground-based allies can engage players directly.
• Divide and Conquer: Use the dragon's mobility to separate player characters, making it difficult for them to support each other. This can be particularly effective if the dragon has allies that can capitalize on isolated targets.
• Retreat and Regroup: If the battle turns against the dragon, it can use its superior speed to retreat and regroup with its allies. This can lead to a second, more challenging encounter as the dragon returns with reinforcements.

Fleeing and Tactical Retreats

• Strategic Withdrawal: If the dragon is outmatched, it can use its flight to escape to a more advantageous position. Consider having the dragon retreat to a lair or a location where it has the upper hand.
• Using Terrain: The dragon can use its knowledge of the terrain to its advantage, leading players into traps or ambushes set by its allies.
• Negotiation and Diplomacy: As a wise and intelligent creature, the Adult Gold Dragon may choose to negotiate or parley with the players, especially if it believes they can be allies in a greater cause.

By leveraging the Adult Gold Dragon's strengths and abilities, you can create a dynamic and challenging encounter that will test your players' skills and strategies.