Red Dragon Wyrmling
Medium Dragon, chaotic evil
1,100 XP
Actions
Bite
Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 9 (1d10 + 4) piercing damage plus 3 (1d6) fire damage.
Fire Breath (Recharge 5-6)
The dragon exhales fire in a 15-foot cone. Each creature in that area must make a DC 13 Dexterity saving throw, taking 24 (7d6) fire damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one.
Quick Reference
Running This Encounter
A red dragon wyrmling is an arrogant, aggressive combatant that relies on its bite and claws while leveraging its breath weapon at range. Position the wyrmling in a location where it can use terrain to its advantage, such as high ground or areas with multiple levels. The creature should use hit-and-run tactics if significantly threatened, retreating to a defensible lair. Remember that dragons are intelligent and will attempt to negotiate or intimidate before combat if it serves their purposes.
Combat Tactics
The wyrmling opens combat by using its fire breath weapon on clustered enemies from range, then closes to melee while Dodging if it sustains heavy damage. It will target spellcasters and ranged attackers, prioritizing creatures that pose the greatest threat to its survival. If reduced to half hit points or fewer, it attempts to flee to its lair or another defensible position.
Environment & Setting
This encounter works best in a mountain cavern, volcanic lair, or desert ruins where the wyrmling controls high ground and has a clear escape route. The environment should feature narrow passages to limit party movement and areas where fire breath can be devastatingly effective.