Fire dragons (Draco Ignis) are enormously popular among dragon-watchers and are one of the most well-known dragons of folklore and song. They come in many sizes, shapes and colors and there are many different subspecies and relatives.
Origin and history[]
Fire dragons are one of the oldest documented dragons in history. Originally, they were considered the sons of the stars and drew their powers from the sun. Eastern Fire dragons still require the sun to obtain full power, whereas, in the West, a Fire dragon's powers (consisting of fire-breathing) are ignited by a system that exists in their throat (though this system varies between Fire dragon subspecies).
St. George's dragon was, in fact, a young fire dragon. In the Middle Ages, fire dragons were revered as kings and gods or else feared by townspeople and peasants. Fire dragons would often plunder villages. Fire Dragon scales are superbly tough and strong, not even a Knights sword can cut through the scales and hide.
However, once new siege engines like trebuchets and catapults came out, and the re-emergence of the Roman ballista and Scorpio came, and more use of better pole weapons, fire dragons quickly lost power. Some people also worshiped these dragons as gods, but this practice was outlawed by the Roman Church. Quetzalcoatl was once thought to have been a feathered fire serpent but is now known to be a light dragon.
The arrival of Columbus further reduced their population. Fire dragons to this day live in fear of modern weapons and the threat humans bring to their habitats.
Appearance[]
The appearance of a fire dragon appears to vary between subspecies. However, all have bright eyes with small pupils; thick, hard layers of red, black or orange scales; spikes across their body and large, scaly wings. They also have the unique ability to set themselves on fire by pumping blood through their scales and igniting chemical compounds inside of them.
The popular notion that fire dragons can breathe fire is exaggerated but partially true. A rough texture similar to that of a matchbox lines their throats, such that when they rub their heavy tongues against it the inside of their mouth bursts into flame. Then, by releasing a heavy breath or roar, flame explodes from their jaws.
Fire dragons are a comparatively large species and enjoy bullying weaker dragons.
Famous fire dragons[]
- St George's dragon