Wyvern (Dungeons & Dragons)

(Note: For the mythological creature, see: Wyvern)

In the Dungeons and Dragons fantasy role-playing game, the Wyvern is a Dragon based upon the Wyverns of myth. They resemble true Dragon (Dungeons & Dragons)s for the most part, but they have only two legs, like the Wyverns of myth. They are also much smaller than true Dragons. They have sharp talons, and crocodile-like heads with red or orange eyes. Located in their long, flexible tails are deadly, poisonous scorpion stingers. They are often depicted with their tails arching over their heads.

Society
Wyverns make their homes in caves in cliffs or mountains overlooking forests, jungles, or even plains or deserts. They are usually solitary, living by themselves or with a mate and/or young, but occasionally gather together into flocks in order to hunt if game is sparse, or if they are serving a true Dragon and need to cooperate for some sinister purpose. Though incredibly aggresive and stupid, only young Wyverns attack other Wyverns, and that is usually to show dominance or establish territory. Older Wyverns, despite their bestialness, solve disputes, fights and arguments in non-violent, unknown ways. Some Wyverns do have the treasure hoarding habits of true Dragons, and acumulate such wealth in their lairs, while other Wyverns don't. Wyverns also sometimes work with and serve dominating evil true Dragons, for purposes unknown.

Combat
Despite supposedly being stupid, Wyverns are rather deadly and cunning in combat. They prefer to always be in flight, and take any oppurtunity to take flight if not doing so already. Upon the ground, Wyverns attack with their teeth, and with their deadly tail stingers (which have the power to kill instantly). If flying, Wyverns can also use their teeth and stingers, but prefer to swoop down, and slash at prey with their claws, or even grab them, carry them up into the air, and drop them. Wyverns are careful to be silent when flying, and to keep their shadow unseen. This gives them the benefit of stealth if the foes are unaware of the creature. Wyverns eat the remains of those they kill, and take their valuables if they are treasure-hoarding Wyverns.

Wyverns, despite their dumbness, can speak both Common and Draconic.

They are usually neutral evil in alignment.