The people now known as Drakkar were once human/Elf in origin but are now considered something more. An ancient bond with dragons started by one man sparked the change in the entirety of the Drakkar people.  Forever changed by this magical bond between human and dragon, the Drakkar people now exhibit many different features reminiscent of the dragon companions with which they bond, whether with pointed ears, slight scale patterns, horns, or luminous eyes reminiscent of dragon fire.  Each familial line of the Drakkar may express varying degrees of physical changes, though human appearing at their core.

This unique bond between a dragon and Drakkar brought on more than just changes in appearance.  The Drakkar have developed slightly enhanced physical abilities to keep up with their dragon companions as well as taking on the magics or physical abilities their bonded dragon possessed. Such bonds, deep and bordering symbiotic, were most often life long unless one of them died. 

The development of dragon wings is the most striking transformation. These wings, which grow as their bond strengthens, are unique to each Drakkar and echo their dragon’s appearance. While not all Drakkar manifest wings, those who do are held in high regard. 

The most advanced Drakkar can temporarily channel their bond into draconic transformations, assuming partial or full dragon forms using powerful magic. Over generations, these dragon-bonded humans have become revered as protectors and sages, their unique heritage a testament to the enduring legacy of their ancient pact.

The Drakkar dwell in the flying islands of Elyria, a vast and untamed land of craggy mountains, rolling plateaus, and mist-shrouded valleys. Their communities, known as Aeries, are perched on sheer cliffs or nestled within natural caves, offering them safety and a constant connection to the skies. These semi-nomadic settlements are strategically located near water sources and fertile grazing lands for the dragons they raise.

The Drakkar live slightly longer than average humans, with lifespans extending to 100-120 years. Those who have exceptionally strong bonds with dragons may live even longer, with elders often surpassing 150 years. 

The Drakkar revere the Unhatched, the ancient dragon egg at the heart of their culture. They believe it embodies the soul of an unborn Elven deity and serves as the arbiter of their worthiness. The Unhatched is both a symbol of potential and a divine entity that bridges the realms of humans, dragons, and the mystical. 

Drakkar society revolves around Aeries, which are governed by councils of Elders, Dragonriders, and Eggkeepers—priests devoted to the Unhatched. Leadership is based on merit and the strength of one’s bond with dragons, with those who have undergone partial draconic transformations often holding the highest positions.

The Drakkar are fiercely communal, valuing loyalty and the collective good above all. Outsiders are treated with caution but are welcomed if they demonstrate respect for dragons and the Unhatched.

While they are skilled artisans and traders, particularly in crafting dragon-themed jewelry, armor, and weapons, their most treasured resource is knowledge—stories, songs, and teachings about their bonds with dragons.

The Drakkar construct their settlements with a blend of practicality and reverence for the sky and their bond with dragons. Cliffside dwellings are made of stone and wood, often carved directly into the rock. Structures are adorned with dragon motifs, and open courtyards provide spaces for dragons to land and rest.

The Drakkar are primarily self-sufficient but engage in trade with trusted allies. Their most prized exports include dragonhide leather, iridescent scales, and elaborately crafted weapons and armor imbued with magic. They prefer bartering over currency, valuing goods that can enhance their dragon-rearing lifestyle. 

The Drakkar have a complex and painful relationship with slavery, shaped by their unique bond with dragons and their historical interactions with outsiders. Although they themselves are deeply committed to freedom and autonomy, the presence of other cultures seeking to exploit their dragonkind and sacred practices has made slavery a persistent, though despised, reality in their history.