Adult White Dragon
Huge Dragon, chaotic evil
10,000 XP
Special Abilities
Ice Walk
The dragon can move across and climb icy surfaces without needing to make an ability check. Additionally, difficult terrain composed of ice or snow doesn't cost it extra movement.
Legendary Resistance (3/Day)
If the dragon fails a saving throw, it can choose to succeed instead.
Actions
Multiattack
The dragon can use its Frightful Presence. It then makes three attacks: one with its bite and two with its claws.
Bite
Melee Weapon Attack: +11 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target. Hit: 17 (2d10 + 6) piercing damage plus 4 (1d8) cold damage.
Claw
Melee Weapon Attack: +11 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 13 (2d6 + 6) slashing damage.
Tail
Melee Weapon Attack: +11 to hit, reach 15 ft., one target. Hit: 15 (2d8 + 6) bludgeoning damage.
Frightful Presence
Each creature of the dragon's choice that is within 120 ft. of the dragon and aware of it must succeed on a DC 14 Wisdom saving throw or become frightened for 1 minute. A creature can repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its turns, ending the effect on itself on a success. If a creature's saving throw is successful or the effect ends for it, the creature is immune to the dragon's Frightful Presence for the next 24 hours.
Cold Breath (Recharge 5-6)
The dragon exhales an icy blast in a 60-foot cone. Each creature in that area must make a DC 19 Constitution saving throw, taking 54 (12d8) cold damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one.
Legendary Actions
Detect
The dragon makes a Wisdom (Perception) check.
Tail Attack
The dragon makes a tail attack.
Wing Attack (Costs 2 Actions)
The dragon beats its wings. Each creature within 10 ft. of the dragon must succeed on a DC 19 Dexterity saving throw or take 13 (2d6 + 6) bludgeoning damage and be knocked prone. The dragon can then fly up to half its flying speed.
Quick Reference
Running This Encounter
Use the dragon's lair advantage by incorporating difficult terrain, ice formations, and multiple levels to control movement. Leverage the cold resistance and immunity of white dragons to create environmental hazards that hinder the party but not the dragon. Start the encounter with the dragon airborne to maximize breath weapon usage before engaging in melee. Use minions or lair actions to apply pressure while the dragon repositions.
Combat Tactics
The white dragon prioritizes using its cone breath weapon on grouped enemies, then uses legendary actions to move and attack multiple targets. It favors aerial combat and hit-and-run tactics, breathing on foes before retreating to a high perch. When cornered, it fights viciously but may flee if reduced below 40 HP.
Environment & Setting
A frozen mountain peak, glacier cavern, or snow-covered tundra with ice pillars, crevasses, and multiple elevation changes. Include areas of difficult terrain and natural cover that provide the dragon tactical advantage.