Black Dragon Wyrmling
Medium Dragon, chaotic evil
450 XP
Special Abilities
Amphibious
The dragon can breathe air and water.
Actions
Bite
Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d10 + 2) piercing damage plus 2 (1d4) acid damage.
Acid Breath (Recharge 5-6)
The dragon exhales acid in a 15-foot line that is 5 feet wide. Each creature in that line must make a DC 11 Dexterity saving throw, taking 22 (5d8) acid damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one.
Quick Reference
Running This Encounter
The Black Dragon Wyrmling is a cunning, vicious predator that uses its mobility and acidic breath to control the battlefield. Its high AC and flight make it difficult to pin down, forcing parties to adapt their tactics. Consider using terrain features like water or swamps to enhance the wyrmling's advantages. Mix in a few minions or environmental hazards to create a challenging encounter without relying solely on the dragon's combat prowess.
Combat Tactics
The wyrmling prioritizes using its 60-foot fly speed to stay mobile and out of melee range while unleashing its acid breath weapon on clustered enemies. It will dive to attack vulnerable targets like spellcasters or lightly armored foes, then retreat to safety. If cornered or facing significant threat, it may attempt to flee rather than fight to the death, utilizing its swimming speed to escape through water.
Environment & Setting
Black dragon wyrmlings thrive in swamps, marshes, and coastal wetlands where they can utilize both flying and swimming movement. Encounters are best staged around murky water, dense vegetation, or ruins half-submerged in acidic pools that provide the wyrmling tactical advantage.