Ancient Gold Dragon

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Ancient Gold Dragon Introduction

In the heart of the world's most secluded and mystical realms, where the air shimmers with the golden hues of dawn and the earth whispers secrets of ages past, dwells the majestic Ancient Gold Dragon. This creature, a paragon of wisdom and power, is a sight to behold, its scales gleaming like molten gold under the sun's embrace. Each scale is a testament to centuries of life, reflecting the light in a dazzling array of colors that dance like flames across its massive form.

The Ancient Gold Dragon is not merely a beast of legend but a guardian of the balance between realms. Its eyes, deep pools of molten amber, hold the weight of countless eons, observing the world with a gaze that pierces through the veil of time itself. Its wings, vast and powerful, stretch wide like the sails of a celestial ship, capable of carrying it across the skies with a grace that belies its immense size.

These dragons are known to inhabit the most sacred and hidden places of the world, often choosing lairs in ancient, forgotten temples or atop the highest peaks where the air is thin and the stars seem close enough to touch. Their presence is often marked by the flourishing of life around them; forests grow lush and vibrant, and the waters run pure and clear, as if the land itself is blessed by their mere existence.

Legends speak of the Ancient Gold Dragon as a creature of profound benevolence and wisdom, often sought by those in dire need of guidance or aid. It is said that their breath can heal the gravest of wounds and that their counsel can unravel the most complex of mysteries. However, these dragons are not easily found, for they reveal themselves only to those they deem worthy, those whose hearts are pure and intentions noble.

As you stand on the precipice of this dragon's domain, the air thick with anticipation and the scent of ancient magic, you cannot help but feel the weight of its presence. The very ground seems to hum with energy, and the wind carries with it the faintest echo of a dragon's roar, a reminder of the power and majesty that lies within. Prepare yourselves, for an encounter with an Ancient Gold Dragon is not merely a meeting with a creature of legend, but a journey into the heart of the world's most profound mysteries.

Ancient Gold Dragon Skills & Traits

Skills

• Insight +16
• Perception +17
• Persuasion +13
• Stealth +9

Senses

• Blindsight 60 ft.
• Darkvision 120 ft.
• Passive Perception 27

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: +16 to hit, reach 15 ft., one target. Hit: 21 (2d10 + 10) piercing damage.
• Claw: Melee Weapon Attack: +16 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target. Hit: 17 (2d6 + 10) slashing damage.
• Tail: Melee Weapon Attack: +16 to hit, reach 20 ft., one target. Hit: 19 (2d8 + 10) 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 24 Wisdom saving throw or become frightened for 1 minute. A frightened target can repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its turns, ending the effect on itself on a success. If a target's saving throw is successful or the effect ends for it, the target 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 90-foot cone. Each creature in that area must make a DC 24 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 90-foot cone. Each creature in that area must succeed on a DC 24 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 15 feet of the dragon must succeed on a DC 25 Dexterity saving throw or take 17 (2d6 + 10) bludgeoning damage and be knocked prone. The dragon can then fly up to half its flying speed.

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Battle Tips for Ancient Gold Dragon

The Ancient Gold Dragon is one of the most powerful and majestic creatures in any fantasy setting. As a Dungeon Master, utilizing this creature effectively can create memorable and challenging encounters for your players. Here are some tips on how to use an Ancient Gold Dragon in battle:

1. Strategic Use of Abilities

• Fire Breath: The dragon's fire breath is devastating. Use it to target clusters of players or to cut off escape routes. Remember, the dragon can fly, so it can position itself to maximize the impact of this ability.
• Legendary Actions: Take advantage of the dragon's legendary actions to maintain pressure on the players. Use these actions to reposition, make additional attacks, or disrupt player strategies.
• Shapechange: The dragon's ability to polymorph into a humanoid or beast can be used for surprise attacks or to infiltrate player ranks before revealing its true form.

2. Tactical Positioning

• Air Superiority: Keep the dragon airborne to avoid melee attacks and to use its breath weapon effectively. This also forces players to use ranged attacks or spells, which may be less effective.
• Environmental Advantage: Use the terrain to the dragon's advantage. Ancient Gold Dragons often inhabit mountainous or cavernous regions, which can be used to create choke points or ambushes.

3. Coordinated Attacks with Allies

• Allied Creatures: Pair the dragon with other creatures, such as elementals or loyal followers, to create a multi-layered threat. These allies can distract or weaken players while the dragon focuses on high-value targets.
• Dragon Kin: If multiple dragons are involved, coordinate their attacks to overwhelm players. Use one dragon to draw attention while another flanks or uses its breath weapon.

4. Strategic Retreat

• Preservation of Life: An Ancient Gold Dragon is wise and values its life. If the battle turns against it, the dragon may choose to retreat, using its superior speed and flight to escape.
• Regroup and Return: After retreating, the dragon can regroup with allies or heal before returning to the fray, potentially catching players off guard.

By using these strategies, a Dungeon Master can create a dynamic and challenging encounter with an Ancient Gold Dragon, testing the players' tactical skills and teamwork.