Silver Dragon Wyrmling
Medium Dragon, lawful good
450 XP
Actions
Bite
Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 9 (1d10 + 4) piercing damage.
Breath Weapons (Recharge 5-6)
The dragon uses one of the following breath weapons.
Cold Breath. The dragon exhales an icy blast in a 15-foot cone. Each creature in that area must make a DC 13 Constitution saving throw, taking 18 (4d8) cold damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one.
Paralyzing Breath. The dragon exhales paralyzing gas in a 15-foot cone. Each creature in that area must succeed on a DC 13 Constitution saving throw or be paralyzed 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.
Quick Reference
Running This Encounter
The silver dragon wyrmling is intelligent and generally good-aligned, making it an excellent choice for a morally complex encounter rather than a straightforward fight. It may initially attempt to communicate or assess the party's intentions before combat. Use its high AC and modest HP to create a challenging but fair fight that rewards creative problem-solving. Consider having the wyrmling fight defensively or seek to flee if the party proves peaceful or overwhelmingly powerful.
Combat Tactics
The wyrmling prioritizes using its breath weapon (cold cone) against clustered enemies before engaging in melee with its bite and claws. It uses its speed (40 ft flying) to maintain tactical positioning and avoid being surrounded, attacking from range when possible. If reduced to half HP or fewer, it may attempt to flee or negotiate rather than fight to the death.
Environment & Setting
A mountain aerie, cloud castle, or frozen cavern provides excellent aerial combat terrain. Alternatively, a noble's tower or ancient temple dedicated to good deities works well for a social encounter that might lead to combat.