Young Gold Dragon
Large Dragon, lawful good
5,900 XP
Special Abilities
Amphibious
The dragon can breathe air and water.
Actions
Multiattack
The dragon makes three attacks: one with its bite and two with its claws.
Bite
Melee Weapon Attack: +10 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target. Hit: 17 (2d10 + 6) piercing damage.
Claw
Melee Weapon Attack: +10 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 13 (2d6 + 6) slashing damage.
Breath Weapons (Recharge 5-6)
The dragon uses one of the following breath weapons.
Fire Breath. The dragon exhales fire in a 30-foot cone. Each creature in that area must make a DC 17 Dexterity saving throw, taking 55 (10d10) fire damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one.
Weakening Breath. The dragon exhales gas in a 30-foot cone. Each creature in that area must succeed on a DC 17 Strength saving throw or have disadvantage on Strength-based attack rolls, Strength checks, and Strength saving throws 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
A Young Gold Dragon is a formidable foe that should feel like a climactic battle. Use its Intelligence (17) and Charisma (19) to make tactical decisions—it will use cover, retreat when bloodied, and attempt to negotiate if the party seems outmatched or redeemable. Leverage its Legendary Actions to control the battlefield even when not taking full turns. Emphasize the dragon's metallic nature through righteous dialogue and moral gravity to the encounter.
Combat Tactics
The Young Gold Dragon opens combat with its Breath Weapon (Cone of Fire) to damage clustered enemies, then uses Claw and Bite attacks against the nearest threat while maintaining distance. It employs Legendary Actions to cast Detect Magic or move defensively, and will use its Intelligence to exploit terrain and target spellcasters first if they pose a threat.
Environment & Setting
An ancient temple, noble's castle, or mountain peak sanctum befits a lawful good dragon's lair. Include pillars for cover, elevated platforms for aerial advantage, and perhaps religious or regal decorations that reflect the dragon's alignment.