How to Start Dragonborn Without Cultists: A Guide for DMs & Players

So, you want to kick off a Dragonborn campaign without the ubiquitous dragon cultists trying to raise Tiamat? Smart choice! While that’s a classic trope, it’s been done to death. The key is to leverage the potential of the Dragonborn race and their inherent connection to dragons without making them mere pawns in an apocalyptic plot.

The direct answer: Focus on the societal implications of Dragonborn heritage, lineage, and the echoes of the Dragon Wars. Forget about the immediate threat of cultists and instead explore themes of prejudice, prophecy, rediscovering lost traditions, or the internal struggles of a Dragonborn trying to forge their own destiny apart from their ancestral ties. Center the campaign around a different central conflict, using dragons (and their influence) as a background element or a slow-burn reveal, rather than the immediate, central antagonist. Let’s dive into how to make this happen.

Building a World Where Dragonborn Flourish (or Struggle) Outside Cult Influence

1. Establish a Rich History

The Dragon Wars shaped the Dragonborn race. Think about it: what happened after the war? Were treaties signed? Did Dragonborn integrate into existing societies, or create their own enclaves? Did they retreat into isolation, guarding ancient knowledge or seeking to rebuild what was lost?

Consider these historical angles:

• The Diaspora: Dragonborn clans scattered after a devastating defeat, forced to assimilate into other cultures. The campaign could focus on rediscovering lost clans or uniting the scattered Dragonborn people.
• The Golden Age: A period of prosperity and innovation for Dragonborn, now threatened by external forces or internal decay. This could be a political intrigue campaign, focusing on maintaining power and preventing a descent into chaos.
• The Burden of Prophecy: An ancient Dragonborn prophecy foretells a great calamity. The PCs, potentially all Dragonborn, must interpret the prophecy and prevent the disaster.

2. Focus on Dragonborn Culture

What are the core values of your Dragonborn society? Honour? Strength? Wisdom? Lineage? How do they express their art, music, and spirituality? Defining these cultural elements will make your Dragonborn feel more real and less like scaled humans waiting for a dragon to boss them around.

Some cultural hooks:

• The Draconic Language: Deep dive into the nuances of the language. Perhaps certain words or phrases hold magical power, or are forbidden to outsiders.
• Rituals and Traditions: Create unique coming-of-age ceremonies, ancestral veneration practices, or rites of passage that reflect the Dragonborn connection to dragons (without being inherently evil).
• Art and Architecture: Reflect their connection to dragons in their architecture, art, and craftsmanship. Imagine buildings carved with draconic runes or artwork depicting scenes from the Dragon Wars.

3. Introduce Unique Dragonborn Subcultures

Not all Dragonborn need to be the same. Create distinct subcultures based on their dragon ancestry, their environment, or their specific beliefs.

Examples:

• The Bronze Guard: Dragonborn warriors dedicated to protecting a specific territory or artifact.
• The Copper Clanners: Merchants and traders known for their shrewdness and diplomacy.
• The Silver Scholars: Dragonborn historians and mages dedicated to preserving knowledge.

4. Develop Factions and Conflicts

Internal conflict makes for a compelling campaign. Instead of fighting cultists, have Dragonborn factions vying for power, disagreeing on how to deal with external threats, or grappling with internal moral dilemmas.

Possible Conflicts:

• Traditionalists vs. Reformers: A clash between those who cling to ancient traditions and those who advocate for adapting to modern times.
• Isolationists vs. Expansionists: A debate on whether to remain isolated or to expand their territory and influence.
• Lineage Purists vs. Integrationists: A struggle over whether to maintain the purity of Dragonborn bloodlines or to embrace interbreeding with other races.

5. The Draconic Echo

Even without cultists, the influence of dragons should be felt. The “Draconic Echo” is the subtle, pervasive presence of dragon magic and history in the world.

Examples:

• Dragon Dreams: Dragonborn PCs might experience vivid dreams or visions linked to their dragon ancestors.
• Draconic Artefacts: Ancient weapons or relics imbued with dragon magic, waiting to be discovered.
• Dragon-Touched Locations: Places where the veil between the material plane and the dragon realm is thin, leading to strange phenomena.

Crafting Compelling Narratives

Now that you have a solid foundation, you can start crafting compelling narratives that focus on Dragonborn without relying on the cultist crutch.

1. The Lost Heir

A Dragonborn PC is revealed to be the last heir of a fallen dynasty. The campaign focuses on reclaiming their birthright, navigating political intrigue, and rebuilding their shattered kingdom.

2. The Artifact Hunt

The PCs are tasked with finding a series of ancient Dragonborn artifacts scattered across the land. Each artifact holds a piece of the puzzle, revealing a forgotten history or unlocking a powerful ability.

3. The Negotiator

A Dragonborn PC is chosen to negotiate a peace treaty between Dragonborn and another powerful race, such as elves or dwarves. The campaign focuses on diplomacy, cultural understanding, and preventing a catastrophic war.

4. The Plague Doctor

A mysterious plague is sweeping through Dragonborn communities, causing mutations and madness. The PCs, including a Dragonborn doctor, must find the source of the plague and develop a cure before it’s too late.

5. The GamesLearningSociety.org Campaign: A School for Dragonborn

Imagine a Games Learning Society dedicated to the education and training of young Dragonborn. This school, inspired by GamesLearningSociety.org, could be a central hub for adventure. The campaign could revolve around protecting the school from external threats, uncovering a conspiracy within its walls, or competing in magical tournaments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What if I want to include dragons, but not in a typical “evil overlord” way?

Focus on the nuances of dragon nature. Not all dragons are evil. Consider metallic dragons, or even chromatic dragons with complex motivations. Dragons could be allies, patrons, mentors, or even rivals to the PCs.

2. How do I make Dragonborn characters feel unique compared to other races?

Lean into their breath weapon, resistance, and Draconic ancestry. Customize these traits based on their specific dragon lineage. Develop unique Dragonborn-specific feats and spells.

3. Can I still have some cultists, but not as the main antagonists?

Absolutely. You can have small, fringe groups obsessed with dragons, but make them misguided or irrelevant to the main plot. They could be a red herring or a minor obstacle for the PCs to overcome.

4. What are some alternative threats besides dragon cultists?

• Xenophobic humans: Humans who fear and hate Dragonborn.
• Power-hungry mages: Wizards seeking to exploit Dragonborn heritage for their own ends.
• Other monstrous races: Giants, orcs, or aberrations encroaching on Dragonborn territory.

5. How do I handle the Dragonborn’s resistance to a specific damage type?

Don’t overly punish players for having a resistance. Instead, create scenarios where that resistance is a valuable asset, allowing them to survive situations that would kill others.

6. Should all Dragonborn worship dragons?

No. Religion is a personal choice. Some Dragonborn might worship dragons, while others might follow other deities or embrace secular philosophies.

7. How can I incorporate the Dragonborn’s breath weapon into the story?

The breath weapon can be used creatively for more than just combat. It could be used to solve puzzles, create distractions, or even heal others.

8. What are some examples of Dragonborn names?

Dragonborn names typically consist of a given name followed by a clan name. Given names often sound guttural or harsh, while clan names describe their ancestors’ deeds or lineage.

9. How do I handle Dragonborn PCs who are ashamed of their heritage?

Explore the reasons behind their shame. Is it due to past trauma, societal prejudice, or a fear of their own potential power? Allow them to confront their past and find acceptance.

10. What if a player wants to play a Dragonborn who wants to become a dragon?

This is a great opportunity for a character arc. Explore the risks and rewards of such a transformation. Consider using powerful magic items or ancient rituals to achieve this goal, but make it a difficult and potentially dangerous process.

11. How can I use the Dragon Wars as a source of inspiration?

Research real-world historical conflicts and adapt them to your Dragonborn setting. Consider the political, social, and economic consequences of the war.

12. What are some unique Dragonborn character classes?

Consider a Dragonborn Rune Knight (using draconic runes), a Dragonborn Oath of Devotion Paladin (dedicated to protecting dragons), or a Dragonborn Draconic Bloodline Sorcerer (with enhanced dragon powers).

13. How can I make Dragonborn societies feel distinct from human societies?

Focus on their cultural values, traditions, and architecture. Incorporate draconic elements into their art, music, and clothing.

14. How do I create a compelling Dragonborn villain without making them a cultist?

Make them driven by understandable, even sympathetic, motivations. Perhaps they seek to protect their people at any cost, even if it means oppressing others.

15. What are some resources for learning more about Dragonborn lore?

The Player’s Handbook and Fizban’s Treasury of Dragons are good starting points. Also, consider looking at online forums and communities dedicated to Dungeons & Dragons.