The dragons of Faerûn are ancient, majestic, and deadly. From the gleaming scales of metallic dragons who rule with wisdom, to the fierce chromatic dragons that bring ruin and flame, these creatures are both feared and revered. Dragons of the Realms: A Compendium of Scales and Flame is a tome that delves into every aspect of dragonkind, illuminating their powers, hierarchies, and lore. Its author, Renar Velsaar, once counted himself among the dragon cultists, but his turn toward scholarship led to the creation of one of the most detailed accounts of dragons to date.
I have found that few books capture the allure and terror of dragons as well as this one. Velsaar’s dedication to understanding these mighty beings is evident on every page, offering practical knowledge for those brave enough to seek out dragons and invaluable insight for those who would rather avoid them.
About the Book
Author: Renar Velsaar, a human scholar with firsthand experience in the ways of the dragon cult. After severing ties with the cult, he pursued a life of research, dedicating himself to documenting the complex world of dragonkind. His knowledge comes not only from books but also from encounters with dragons—both feared and respected.
Year of Publication: 1385 DR
Language: Written in Common, with scattered Draconic phrases, symbols, and names included in their original form. Velsaar included these elements as a way to preserve the cultural essence of each dragon type.
Physical Description: The cover is embedded with scales of different colors and types, each representing a unique dragon kind. Inside, vivid illustrations show dragons in flight, in lairs, and in combat, with annotations detailing their anatomy, abilities, and tactics.
Content and Usefulness
Dragons of the Realms is divided into sections by dragon type, each chapter providing information on that particular dragon’s characteristics, strengths, and habits. It also includes Velsaar’s personal notes, adding depth to the lore and practical advice for those who may come face-to-face with dragonkind.
- Chromatic Dragons:
This section covers the five chromatic dragons—red, blue, green, black, and white. Velsaar provides details on each dragon’s elemental abilities, favored habitats, and personalities. His accounts of red dragons, in particular, include strategies for avoiding these creatures or, if needed, defending oneself against their fire and fury. He offers a glimpse into their territorial behavior, hoard preferences, and infamous wrath.Application: Understanding chromatic dragons equips adventurers with knowledge of each dragon’s elemental attacks, resistances, and temperament. Velsaar’s observations also provide hints on how to identify a chromatic dragon’s territory before an encounter, helping to avoid dangerous run-ins or prepare for a potential confrontation. - Metallic Dragons:
Here, Velsaar explores the five metallic dragons—gold, silver, bronze, copper, and brass. He discusses their alliances, interactions with mortal races, and the honor codes they often live by. Velsaar notes that while metallic dragons may appear benevolent, their wisdom and power are not to be underestimated. The section includes advice on how to approach these dragons with the respect they demand.Application: For adventurers hoping to gain the favor of a metallic dragon, this section offers insights into appropriate customs, gifts, and conversational cues. Heroes seeking aid or alliances with these dragons may find this knowledge invaluable, as even the smallest gesture can mean the difference between friendship and enmity. - Ancient Legends and Hoards:
This final section covers the famous dragons of Faerûn, from Klauth, the Old Snarl, to Thauglorimorgorus, the Purple Dragon. Velsaar includes tales of dragon battles, ancient hoards, and the rare relics some of these dragons possess. He also gives guidance on how to recognize signs of a dragon lair, whether hidden in mountains, forests, or subterranean caverns.Application: Knowing the legendary dragons, their lair locations, and their hoards allows adventurers to approach or avoid areas marked by dragons. Velsaar’s guidance on recognizing lairs could mean the difference between an adventurer stumbling into a dragon’s den unprepared or approaching with the caution needed to stay hidden.
Why It Matters
Dragons of the Realms serves as both an encyclopedia and a survival guide for those who cross paths with dragons. From understanding the methods of chromatic dragons to the traditions of their metallic counterparts, the book’s knowledge is invaluable to adventurers, scholars, and even dragon hunters. It offers a perspective on dragons that balances respect with caution, knowing that these creatures’ power is as immense as their pride.
For any who seek to deal with dragons—whether to gain favor, strike a bargain, or prepare for conflict—Velsaar’s work is a trusted guide. The book illuminates dragonkind’s majesty and menace alike, a reminder that every dragon is both ruler of its own domain and a danger to those who wander too close.
Imagine finding yourself at the edge of a dragon’s lair, the ground trembling with every breath the creature takes. With Velsaar’s guidance, you would know the signs of its presence, the ways to pay proper respect, and how to avoid becoming just another trophy in its hoard.
Dragons are forces beyond mortal comprehension—both awe-inspiring and terrifying. Velsaar’s compendium is more than a book; it’s a shield, a guide, a teacher. For any who would approach dragonkind, this work is not a choice but a necessity.
