~*~ The Ultimate Elemental Armor ~*~
Grants resistance to elemental damage
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Type: Monster Part (Dragon) Rarity: Very Rare Cost: 500-2,000 gp per scale (varies by dragon type) |
Primary Use: Resistance Potions Shelf Life: Indefinite (centuries) Danger Level: Caution (magical radiation) |
Dragon scales are among the most prized alchemical ingredients in existence. Each scale is typically hand-sized or larger, incredibly hard, and retains the dragon's elemental affinity even after separation from the body. Red dragon scales are warm to the touch and occasionally spark. Blue scales hum with static electricity. White scales are cold enough to frost over. The scales shimmer with an inner light that never fades, and their coloration ranges from deep crimson to brilliant gold depending on the dragon type.
Dragon scales contain concentrated elemental essence tied to their dragon's type:
When ground into powder and mixed into potions, the scale imparts its resistance to the drinker. The magical signature is extremely potent—even a small amount (1/4 scale ground to powder) is sufficient for a full potion. Associated with Abjuration magic (protection) and Transmutation (element channeling).
Location: Dragon lairs, ancient battlefields where dragons fell, or naturally shed scales in areas where dragons frequently rest. Some dragons shed scales naturally every few centuries. Dragon's Rest Peak on Stormwreck Isle is rumored to have several bronze dragon scales.
Harvesting: From a live dragon: Extremely dangerous. Not recommended unless the dragon is unconscious or willing. Scales can be carefully pried loose with a crowbar and hammer (Strength check). From a dead dragon: Much safer. Scales can be harvested within 24 hours of death before the body dissolves into elemental energy. Each dragon yields 3d6 usable scales. From shed scales: The safest method. Finding a naturally shed scale is rare but requires no combat. Difficulty: Expert (if dragon is alive), Moderate (if recently dead).
Alternatives: Specialized merchants in major cities occasionally have scales for sale, though at extreme markup. Dragonborn communities sometimes trade scales as diplomatic gifts. Some wealthy collectors possess private stockpiles.
Cleaning: Rinse scale in pure alcohol to remove any residual blood or tissue. Pat dry with non-flammable cloth.
Grinding: Dragon scales are incredibly hard—harder than steel. Grinding requires either a diamond-tipped mortar and pestle OR magical enhancement to your tools. Expect to spend 2-3 hours grinding a single scale to fine powder. Wear eye protection— scale dust can irritate eyes. The powder retains its color and elemental properties.
Storage: Keep powdered scales in sealed glass containers. Different dragon types must be stored separately to prevent elemental cross-contamination. Label clearly—mixing fire and ice dragon powder can cause explosive reactions.
Magical Radiation: Dragon scales emit low-level magical radiation. Prolonged exposure (more than 8 hours of direct contact per day) can cause magical saturation—symptoms include glowing eyes, occasional sparks when touching metal, and dreams of flying. Effects are temporary and fade after a week away from the scales.
Elemental Hazards: Fire dragon scales can ignite flammable materials if stored improperly. Ice dragon scales can freeze liquids in adjacent containers. Lightning scales may discharge if struck by metal. Store in padded, insulated containers.
Legal Concerns: In some kingdoms, possession of dragon scales without proper documentation is illegal, as it implies dragon slaying. Some metallic dragon clans consider scale trading offensive and may take action against unauthorized collectors.
"I've spent forty years studying dragon scales, and they still astound me.
A single scale contains more raw elemental power than a dozen wizards could channel.
The ancient dragons knew this—they bathed in volcanic calderas and arctic storms,
absorbing elemental energy into their very being. When we brew with their scales,
we're not just using an ingredient—we're channeling a fragment of dragonkind's might.
Treat them with the respect they deserve, or face the consequences."
- Master Alchemist Valdris Scalehunter (who is missing three fingers)