Protodragon

Base Protodragon

  Protodragons are small, sapient offshoots of true dragons, bred in ancient times as cherished pets, scouts, or magical aides. While not as mighty as their ancient cousins, they carry within them the spark of draconic legacy — wings, fangs, and a personality much larger than their size would suggest.
  Typically the size of a dog and no heavier than a few pounds, protodragons come in a dazzling array of hues and temperaments. Each color often reflects an elemental attunement and mood: a red-scaled protodragon might be proud and quick-tempered, while a silver one may exhibit a dry wit and gentle demeanor. Coatl-blooded variants shimmer with celestial feathers and speak in riddles and dreams. Fey-bounds usually exhibit pleasant and good-natured temperaments, though they have a mischievous streak that leads them to play tricks on those around them.
  They are fiercely loyal once bonded, treating their companion as both clutchmate and courtier. Many enjoy perching on shoulders, surveying their surroundings with languid smugness. Some have been known to compose songs in Draconic, critique spellcasting technique, or harass familiars they deem “lesser.”
  Despite their vanity and sass, protodragons possess keen intelligence and are more than capable battlefield allies, lending elemental breath, tail sweeps, and even soothing magic when the bond is deep.
 
Trait Dragon, Elemental Affinity (based on variant)
Size Small
Speed 30 ft., fly 40 ft.
AC 18 + level
HP 8 + Constitution modifier / clevel
— — —
Melee Attack
Jaws (Agile, Finesse) 1d8 damage Damage increased based on level

• Level 5 - 2d8 piercing damage
• Level 10 - 3d8 piercing damage
• Level 15 - 4d8 piercing damage
• Level 20 - 5d8 piercing damage

Support Benefit
Once per round, when you Strike, the protodragon can deal 1d4 elemental damage of its type (fire, cold, acid, etc.)
Advanced Maneuver
Draconic Sweep: Tail sweep (10-foot cone) for 1d6 + Strength mod bludgeoning (basic Reflex save)
 

Level 15 Example

Red Protodragon
Trait Dragon, Fire
Size Small
Speed 30 ft., fly 40 ft.
AC 33
HP 150
— — —
Melee Attack
Jaws (Agile, Finesse) 4d8 piercing damage
Support Benefit
Draconic Spout - Once per round, when you Strike, the protodragon can deal 3d4 fire damage; on crit, deals +3 persistent fire damage.
Advanced Maneuver
Tailwind: Tail sweep (10-foot cone) for 3d6 bludgeoning damage (basic Reflex). On failed save, inflicts Frightened +1 if attacker is higher level.
 

Variants

Chromatic

Support Benefit Elemental damage matches dragon color; on crit, deals +1 persistent damage

Advanced Maneuver

On failed save, inflicts Frightened 1 if attacker is higher level

Metallic

Support Benefit

Grants +1 to saves vs. magic to allies within 10 ft.

Advanced Maneuver

Tail sweep can also Trip

Coatl

Support Benefit

Support Strike - Heals 1d8 HP instead of dealing damage. Absorb Elements - Absorb Elements Absorbs

Advanced Maneuver

Shimmering Veil: On critical hit, grants ally Concealed for 1 round

Fey

Support Benefit

 

Advanced Maneuver