Young Copper Dragon
Large Dragon, chaotic good
2,900 XP
Actions
Multiattack
The dragon makes three attacks: one with its bite and two with its claws.
Bite
Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target. Hit: 15 (2d10 + 4) piercing damage.
Claw
Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 11 (2d6 + 4) slashing damage.
Breath Weapons (Recharge 5-6)
The dragon uses one of the following breath weapons.
Acid Breath. The dragon exhales acid in an 40-foot line that is 5 feet wide. Each creature in that line must make a DC 14 Dexterity saving throw, taking 40 (9d8) acid damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one.
Slowing Breath. The dragon exhales gas in a 30-foot cone. Each creature in that area must succeed on a DC 14 Constitution saving throw. On a failed save, the creature can't use reactions, its speed is halved, and it can't make more than one attack on its turn. In addition, the creature can use either an action or a bonus action on its turn, but not both. These effects last for 1 minute. The creature can repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its turns, ending the effect on itself with a successful save.
Quick Reference
Running This Encounter
The Young Copper Dragon is a playful yet cunning foe that should use hit-and-run tactics with its flight advantage. Emphasize its mischievous personality by having it taunt the party, set traps, or attempt non-lethal tricks before resorting to lethal combat. Use its acid breath weapon strategically in confined spaces where the party cannot easily spread out. Remember that copper dragons are chaotic good-aligned, so consider opportunities for negotiation or riddles as alternatives to pure combat.
Combat Tactics
The dragon leads with aerial attacks, using its fly speed to stay out of melee range while breathing acid on clustered enemies. It targets spellcasters and ranged attackers first, using superior mobility to harry the party from different angles. When pressed, it uses its tail attack and attempts to frighten opponents with its presence, potentially forcing a fighting retreat.
Environment & Setting
Copper dragons favor rocky highlands, canyon systems, and cave networks where their flying ability provides maximum advantage. Multi-level terrain with ledges, pillars, or narrow passages allows the dragon to use three-dimensional combat while restricting the party's movement options.