![[ZZ_Assets/AerosclughpalarPathfinder-v1.webp]] # Aerosclughpalar _Ancient Gold Dragon | [[Harpers]] | [[Valkalyn]]'s Demiplane_ ## Summary Ancient gold dragon who serves as a Harper leader, known for disguising himself as the half-elven druid Vaeros Fireshield. The heroes rescued him from the [[Cacophony]], who sought to transform him into an [[Elder Brain Dragon]]. When he sought to return to his sanctuary, he found the [[Shadowtop Cathedral]] reduced to ash by [[Vulkazar]], the Ashen Crown. %% ## Now Coordinates [[Harper]] intelligence from hiding as the Cult seizes [[High Forest]] sites, and has agreed by messenger to defend the unguarded [[Karse Mythallar]]. Now forced to decide whether to act directly. ## Appearance Enormous gold dragon whose scales transition from burnished bronze to brilliant gold—though psionic corruption has left them partially translucent with visible cerebral matter beneath. Golden eyes occasionally flicker with residual psychic interference, and he unconsciously encourages plant growth around him even in dragon form. Speaks with measured wisdom, pausing thoughtfully before important statements. ## Personality Requires **3 castings of Greater Restoration** to fully recover—each casting unlocks more strategic insight about the [[Dominion]]. Feels responsible for not preventing cult infiltration; desperately wants to make amends. Mentions of his son [[Virovirens]] or enemy [[Klauth]] trigger intense emotional responses. His druidic philosophy—that destruction enables renewal—may conflict with immediate tactical needs. Once fully healed, can coordinate alliance between [[Caerilcarn]], Harpers, and Druids of Tall Trees. ## Quote _"The strongest forests are those that have weathered fire. What does not destroy us becomes essential to our renewal. But this corruption... this threatens the very cycle itself."_ ## Background **The Philosophy:** His transformation from traditional guardian to enlightened druid began over three centuries ago when devastating fires in the High Forest taught him that destruction could enable renewal. This controversial philosophy led to his apprenticeship under Grand Druid Sinklayr Greenstroke and eventual joining of the Harpers. **The Tragedy:** [[Klauth]] attacked his family, slaughtering most of his offspring and traumatizing his eldest son [[Virovirens]]. His counsel of patience over revenge created a rift—Virovirens eventually left to study at Blackstaff Tower. **The Capture:** As unofficial Harper leader at Shadowtop Cathedral, he oversaw a network throughout the High Forest. Investigating Cult of the Dragon activity led him to [[Shilrua]], where the [[Cacophony]] captured him for transformation into an Elder Brain Dragon. **The Rescue:** The heroes saved him before the transformation completed, but he bears lasting corruption that clouds his ancient wisdom until fully healed. ## Stats **Ancient Gold Dragon** (weakened by psionic corruption until restored). %%