In the annals of history, few events have shaped the realms as deeply as the War of Dragons. It was an epoch marked by fire and fury, a battle waged between the forces of Tiamat, the Dragon Queen, and the many who sought to defy her. The War of Dragons: An Epoch of Fire and Blood is one of the most comprehensive accounts of this devastating conflict, penned by the scholar Taryn Orvas, who dedicated much of his life to studying the histories of dragonkind and their influence on Faerûn.
When I first encountered this tome, I expected only a recounting of battles and heroes, but what I found was a far deeper exploration of the motivations, alliances, and betrayals that defined the war. Orvas not only chronicled the battles but also provided insights into the minds of the dragons themselves, their ancient rivalries, and their uneasy alliances with mortals. Through this work, I came to better understand the forces that still shape the world to this day—forces that, though dormant, may yet rise again.
About the Book
Author: Taryn Orvas, a human scholar from Amn, known for his extensive travels and deep knowledge of draconic lore. Orvas spent decades studying under metallic dragons, gathering firsthand accounts from those who participated in the war. His keen interest in the politics and culture of dragons led him to uncover stories that had long been lost or hidden.
Year of Publication: 1365 DR
Language: Written in Common, though certain draconic phrases and symbols are included, particularly in the descriptions of ancient rites and pacts between dragons.
Physical Description: Bound in red leather with gold filigree, the cover bears the symbol of a roaring dragon. The pages are edged in a metallic hue, and illustrations of dragons and battles are vivid and detailed, creating a sense of awe for the creatures and events they depict.
Content and Usefulness
The War of Dragons is not just a history book; it is a testament to the power and fury of dragonkind, and the mortals who stood alongside or against them. Orvas divides his work into three major sections, each focusing on a different aspect of the war.
- The Rise of Tiamat’s Forces:
Orvas begins by recounting the rise of Tiamat’s followers and her efforts to dominate Faerûn through her chromatic dragon army. He provides a detailed look at the alliances she forged with powerful draconic and mortal allies, as well as the events leading to her attempted conquest. Orvas also delves into the religious fervor of her followers, including the Cult of the Dragon, and how their devotion fueled the war.
Application: This section could provide valuable insight for those seeking to understand the nature of Tiamat’s cult and the tactics of chromatic dragons. Heroes facing the resurgence of Tiamat’s followers may find strategies and knowledge within these pages to help counter her forces. - The Metallic Resistance:
This section focuses on the dragons who stood against Tiamat, primarily the metallic dragons who rallied to defend the realms. Orvas records the stories of these noble beings, recounting their alliances with mortal kingdoms and their valiant efforts to stop the chromatic dragons from plunging Faerûn into eternal darkness. He also describes the internal conflicts among the metallic dragons, many of whom questioned the wisdom of allying with humans and elves.
Application: Heroes who seek the aid of metallic dragons may learn valuable lessons from this section. Understanding the ways in which these dragons think and their sense of honor and duty could provide a path to forming alliances with them in future conflicts. - The Final Battle and Its Aftermath:
The concluding section covers the war’s climax—the great battle that took place in the skies above Faerûn, where Tiamat’s forces were finally pushed back, though not without significant loss. Orvas provides vivid accounts of the key players, including the mortal champions who fought alongside the metallic dragons, and the fates of both sides in the years that followed. The aftermath of the war saw the retraction of many dragons from the world stage, though Orvas suggests that the threat of Tiamat’s return is ever-present.
Application: The final battle serves as a powerful reminder that though the war ended, the scars it left on Faerûn—and the power of Tiamat—are far from forgotten. This section could provide adventurers with warnings of dormant threats or lingering draconic magic that still stirs in the ruins of battlefields.
Why It Matters
The War of Dragons stands as both a historical record and a warning to those who believe the dragons’ wars are in the past. The conflict between chromatic and metallic dragons shaped the history of Faerûn, and the lessons learned from it remain relevant today. Taryn Orvas’ work offers more than just tales of ancient battles—it provides practical knowledge for those who might face draconic forces in the future.
For adventurers, this book is an invaluable resource. Its detailed accounts of the strategies and alliances used during the war could guide those who find themselves in the midst of a dragon conflict. Whether seeking the wisdom of the metallic dragons or preparing for a resurgence of Tiamat’s power, Orvas’ work gives readers the knowledge they need to navigate the ever-present dangers of dragonkind.
Imagine standing in the lair of an ancient dragon, the very air heavy with the weight of its presence. With Orvas’ accounts, you would know the right words to say, the proper customs to follow, and the best ways to avoid becoming just another mortal who dared to cross a dragon’s path.
Dragons are not merely beasts of legend—they are forces of nature, and their wars have shaped the world more than most realize. Taryn Orvas captured the truth of these ancient conflicts, and his work serves as a guide for any who wish to understand the power of dragons. Learn from it, for the past has a way of repeating itself.
