Lore / Draconic Lifeforms

A classification of many dangerous animals, ranging from insects to mammals. The specific principles of how and why Draconic Lifeforms are born are still unknown, but the most prominent theory is that it is an active mutation within organisms created by the Gift, just as we, the children of Meora, are also change by its influence. Yet, the results of these mutations are very distinct and in odds to what we know about the Gift and how it affects us.

Draconic Lifeforms are undoubtedly larger, tougher, and meaner than their regular counterparts, from which they evolve. The number of individuals born that evolve into Dragons, varies depending on the group: for example, one in a couple thousand among mammals, but one in several millions among insects. Many of them exhibit similar mutations such as high inner temperatures, supergrowth, scales, bone outgrowth, and high resistance to Umbral particles. Unlike for us, the children of Meora, these mutations are not as drastic, but are quite homogeneous: a Dragon Wasp from Feetland will resemble a Dragon Wasp from Milkland in size, structure, and other characteristics. Therefore, it was decided not to differentiate or separate comparable Draconic Lifeforms born from different species, but to recognize them as a single Dragon Specie.

Many Dragons do not reproduce with each other and would rather fight with the rival, however, there have been recorded cases of Draconic Avians forming families and laying eggs, although no offspring have ever been reported.

The smallest recorded Draconic Lifeform was the Dragon Mite – it was likely born as an ant mite, but by the end of its life it had reached the size of a cat, and caused the near-extinction of livestock in surrounding villages. The largest Dragon is known only from ancient stories from the Feet and Thigh regions: the Dragon Whale. This creature is said to have been as large as the young Leviathan of the Crus, and even fought It to the death, but it is difficult to say whether it was the Dragon Whale, a rival Leviathan, or an Umbral Horror too arrogant and eager to overthrow its maker.

Taming Draconic Lifeforms is nearly impossible. One problems is that by the time a creature begins to evolve into a Dragon and is noticed, a substantial amount of time will pass, and it will be too late to establish bonds that will lead to positive results. Another problem, of course, is their innate aggression, which should always be directed towards something. Only a few places dare to practice the taming of Draconic Lifeforms, and all of them happen to be located near active routes of Envasions.

Because Draconic Lifeforms are so aggressive and dangerous, any reports would be investigated and, if necessary, hunted. In some cases, herds of certain Monstrous Animals are actively monitored – these creatures already pose a serious threat in their natural forms, but will become even more dangerous if the newborn evolves into a Dragon. Regardless, the remains of Draconic creatures are highly valued, especially among collectors, who are willing to pay handsomely for their heavy bones, tough scales and delicious meat.