Gold dragons are among the most revered and powerful of the Aether Drake, with their lineage tracing back to the primordial days when the gods and the Elementari waged war. As direct descendants of Unknown, the god of life, they were once the dominant species of The Air Realm, embodying the purest aspects of light, justice, and wisdom.
Graceful and radiant, Gold Dragons are often seen as the apex of draconic evolution. Their scales gleam with a brilliant golden sheen, as if they were forged from the very light of the sun. With eyes that burn like molten gold, they exude an aura of warmth and authority, making them awe-inspiring beings to behold. Their horns curve elegantly backward, and their massive wings, when spread, reflect light in dazzling patterns, creating a halo effect around them.
Unlike their Silver Dragon kin, who are known for their sociable nature, Gold Dragons are more reserved, maintaining a certain aura of vigilance that comes from their deep sense of responsibility. They are wise and patient, often spending centuries in contemplation and study of the cosmic forces that govern the world. Despite their otherworldly demeanor, they are fiercely dedicated to the protection of the innocent and the destruction of evil. Their innate sense of justice drives them to intervene in the mortal world, but they do so with calculated precision, never acting on impulse.
The Golden Dragons played a pivotal role during the wars against the Elemental Titans, particularly those of Wind and Storms. As the Aether Realm’s protectors, they waged battles that would shape the course of history. Their efforts were instrumental in defeating the Titans and preserving the delicate balance of the world. However, these wars took a toll on their numbers, and by the end of the Third Age, only a few of these majestic beings remained.
Among the Golden Dragons, one name stands out in legend: Zirael the Ancient, or Goldbrand, who is one of the last surviving members of this majestic race and the fierce guardian of the Etherstone.
Gold Dragons typically lair in places of natural beauty and majesty, such as the peaks of tall mountains, hidden valleys, or even beneath the ocean in vast, air-filled caverns. They prefer locations that are both difficult to reach and awe-inspiring to behold, as they reflect the dragon's own nature.
Their hoards are not merely collections of gold and jewels, though these are certainly present. Instead, Gold Dragons take a particular interest in items of historical or magical significance—artifacts, ancient tomes, and relics from lost civilizations. These treasures are kept not only for their material value but also for the knowledge and wisdom they represent.
While Gold Dragons avoid unnecessary interactions with other beings, they have a deep and abiding interest in the affairs of the world, especially when evil forces threaten the balance of life. They often act as mentors or guardians, subtly guiding heroes and civilizations toward paths of righteousness. In rare cases, they may take on human form to interact with mortals more directly, but they always do so with the utmost caution, never revealing their true nature unless absolutely necessary.
Their presence in the world is a beacon of hope for those who struggle against darkness. To encounter a Gold Dragon is to meet a creature of immense power, wisdom, and compassion—an encounter that often leaves a profound impact on those who are fortunate enough to experience it.
The legacy of the Golden Dragons is woven into the very fabric of the world. Their influence can be seen in the noble orders of knights who swear oaths of justice and righteousness, in the ancient laws that govern the realms, and in the very concept of honor itself. They are not merely creatures of myth and legend but active participants in the ongoing story of the world, ensuring that the forces of evil are kept in check and that the light of justice never fades.
Though their numbers have dwindled, the Golden Dragons continue to watch over the world from their hidden lairs, ever vigilant and ever ready to rise against the encroaching darkness. Their names are spoken with reverence in ancient tongues, and their deeds are remembered in the oldest of songs and the most sacred of texts.