Eberron Rare Playable Races
Dragonborn
Tens of thousands of years ago the dragons of Argonnessen established a garrison of dragonborn in what is now Q’barra. These warriors were assigned to protect the region against the influence of the Lords of Dust. Over time they drifted away from their duties, building an empire in western Khorvaire and clashing with the Dhakaani goblinoids. This came crashing down when one of the ancient Overlords stirred, unleashing fiends and corrupting many of the dragonborn themselves. Their empire collapsed and the dragonborn retreated to the darkness of Q’barra. They have remained their ever since, fighting the forces of the Poison Dusk and guarding against further corruption.
Often confused for more intimidating, well-equipped lizardfolk, the draconic nature of the dragonborn is overlooked by the settlers of New Galifar, leading to them being colloquially known as "scales" just like the reptilian humanoids they share that jungle with. Little do the settlers know that the dragonborn once ruled a great empire that challenged the might of the Dhakaani goblinoids. Those sages who do know of this ancient empire are often perplexed by its seemingly swift collapse for no discernible reason. For their part, dragonborn refuse to say much more about this fall besides "it was a matter of honor".
Most dragonborn today are honor-bound to defend ancient ruins deep in the jungles of Q'barra, but the race is prone to a fierce sense of pride. Dragonborn adventurers roam far from their jungle homes to seek personal glory. Others might be honor-bound on some quest that will aid their clan in their ancestral duty.
To date the dragonborn have largely ignored the humans of Q’barra, and the few humans who’ve encountered dragonborn believe they’re some exotic type of lizardfolk. If you’re a dragonborn PC, what has caused you to emerge from Q’barra? Are you on a quest to help your people or to oppose the Lords of Dust? Are you driven by wanderlust or curiosity? Did you serve as a mercenary in the Last War?
- Source: Player's Handbook, page 34; Wayfinder's Guide to Eberron, page 83; Korranberg Chronicle, page 16
- D&D Beyond: Use Dragonborn
