Scaleborn are predominantly from mortal (human) stock with a varied dose of dragon blood mixed in. They do not hatch from eggs but rather are born like other humans. The influence of dragon genetics upon the offspring directly determines several important developmental factors. Chief among these factors is lifespan. The greater the level of dragon influence within a dragonborn, the longer they live. Magic use, shape-changing, and similar draconic abilities are also influenced by heredity. Only the average lifespan is listed here.
On the other hand, the humanoid ancestry grants the Dragonborn greater adaptability, resistance to the primal, animalistic nature of dragons, and resistance to innate dragon greed. Dragonborn society is quite diverse but doomed to return to its human roots as the influence of dragon heredity slowly dissipates over time. Some adventurous Dragonborn have taken it upon themselves to venture out and seek full dragon mates to reenergize their respective bloodlines.
Scaleborn society is organized into noble houses, typically with a very old and wise dragonborn at its head. Arranged marriages and household wealth are the primary concerns of these patriarchs/matriarchs. It should be noted that although Dragonborn are able to use magical items crafted by dragons, they cannot produce them. They can read and understand dragon power runes but cannot activate or power them. Dragonborn do have an innate understanding of magic making them excellent mages and priests in the traditional sense.
Scaleborn gain (1) RANDOM stat boost, (1) point of Magic Damage Reduction, and +1 to Dragon Lore and Draconic Language skills if possessed. They also gain (1) application of the Dragon Heritage Enhancement at character generation, and the benefits of this enhancement must be rolled. Half-dragons are allowed to possess (2) Medium flaws, but the second flaw must be something related to their dragon heritage, such as Bestial Features (-2 to Social Rolls), Ravenous (requires +25% more food/water), Prolonged Sleep (which could last weeks at a time, especially when older), or Predatory Smell (which causes natural animals to avoid the Half-dragon).
Half-Dragons are innately greedy and MUST know the value of their wealth down to the last copper piece. They NEVER give away ‘treasure’ unless it can somehow get them greater wealth. Once sizeable wealth has been amassed, the dragon must determine a method/place to protect that wealth. This can be something simple, like a metal safe when his/her hoard is small, or it can be hidden in a hidden location with traps that can safeguard a larger hoard.
Mating cycles – adult half-dragons have a primal drive to mate. Females go into heat, while males become anxious and lustful. This occurs once every few years on or around the Half-Dragon’s birthday and lasts for nearly a full month. During this time, the Half-dragon requires little sleep and is ‘ready for action.’
The political views within Scaleborn society can vary greatly, just as in any diverse population. However, some common political perspectives and issues tend to be important to Scaleborn due to their unique heritage and characteristics.
1. Monarchy and Leadership: Some Scaleborn societies may have a strong tradition of monarchy or authoritarian leadership, often tied to the concept of a dragon's natural inclination for dominance. In these societies, leaders might be chosen based on their perceived level of dragon heritage or their abilities to exhibit draconic traits. However, others might advocate for more democratic or meritocratic systems.
2. Heritage and Bloodlines: The level of dragon influence in a Scaleborn's bloodline can significantly impact their social and political standing. There may be debates and tensions surrounding this issue. Some may believe in a strict caste system based on blood purity, while others may advocate for equality regardless of one's dragon ancestry.
3. Assimilation and Adaptability: The balance between embracing their dragon heritage and adapting to the humanoid world can be a point of contention. Some may argue for preserving their draconic traditions, while others might favor assimilating more with the societies of other humanoid races.
4. Dragon Relations: The idea of seeking out full dragon mates to reenergize their bloodlines could have political implications. Some may support this as a means of retaining their unique abilities and culture, while others might view it as risky or as a threat to the balance they've achieved with their human heritage.
5. Resource Management: If Scaleborn possess certain abilities associated with their dragon heritage, such as shape-shifting or magic, there might be political debates on how to manage and regulate these abilities for the benefit of society or to prevent potential abuses.
6. Integration with Other Races: Political views on how Scaleborn interact with other races can vary. Some may advocate for peaceful coexistence and cooperation, while others may be more isolationist or wary of other races, particularly if they've faced discrimination in the past.
7. Cultural Preservation: Some Scaleborn may place a strong emphasis on preserving their unique culture and traditions, especially as their dragon influence gradually dissipates over generations. This could lead to political efforts to protect and promote their cultural heritage.
8. Economic and Trade Policy: Depending on their level of adaptability and resourcefulness, Scaleborn communities may have differing views on trade and economic policies. Some might focus on self-sufficiency, while others may be more open to trade and diplomacy with other races.
It should be noted that Scaleborn can mate with normal humans, though they rarely do so. They can also produce children with elven mates. Scaleborn, especially females, often seek dragon mates. Scaleborn, regardless of hereditary influence, are fertile with pure dragons. Many seek to gather large amounts of treasure to entice dragons into a mating interlude. Others seek out dragons as contacts, followers, and/or priests to various dragon cults. Some even become dragon familiars, hoping to one day actually mate with their master.
Racial Advantages:
Extended Lifespan (135-160 years)
+2 Starting HIT POINTS
Gain (1) RANDOM stat boost
(+1) point of Magic Damage Reduction
(+1) to Dragon Lore and Draconic Language Skill Checks
Gain the Dragon Heritage Enhancement
Can have an extra Medium Flaw
Racial Disadvantages:
Cannot possess the Stealthy Pilfering Vocation
Dragon Greed Flaw
Dragon Mating Cycle Flaw
Scaleborn have a difficult time awakening (-1 to such rolls)