One of the most active and compelling characters in fantasy stories is the dragon. These fierce creatures are usually portrayed as all knowing and powerful with the ability to tap into the forces of nature and mystery.

Dragons have been around of centuries both in Asian and European mythology. Beowulf met his end at the hands of a dragon and Merlin watched as red and blue dragons fought in “The History of the Kings of England.”

They have always been hoarders of loot, sitting on massive mounds of gold and jewels, waiting to eat the next adventurers who tried to steal a single gold coin or cup. They are truly magical beasts and most often can speak with mortals even if its just before they eat them. Tolkien took a more classical approach for the dragon Smaug, making him evil and little concerned with the affairs of man.

They can also be great forces of good filled with the knowledge of the ages. Many a knight and sorcerer has sought out powerful dragons for mystical and arcane knowledge. In reality, dragons are likely remnants of dinosaurs.

Peasants would find dinosaur bones and see these large beasts and create stories around them. How would you like to be someone that found the remains of a long dead T-Rex? You wouldn't know that those bones are millions of years old and you would likely fear that something like it still roams the land hidden in the deep recesses of some cave.