Forge of Fury Question (Spoilers)

[Dr. Zoom]

Please do not read if you are or plan to play in Forge of Fury. Thanks.
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My group will encounter the black dragon Nightscale in all probability in the next couple of sessions. There are 7 characters and they are all 5th level but one. They seem to work well together and are powerful. I began to think that I should increase the dragon's age category by one, to juvenile. Any opinions? Would this make the dragon too tough? Any advice from fellow B.A.D.D. members?

 

[Hatchling Dragon]

I'd say that's reasonable. Your group's well above 'the curve' that the modules are geared for. They're supposed to all be about 5th at that point in the module, but you've got 3 more than the 'standard' group, this effectively makes them an over-all higher powered group.

One idea for helping the Dragon survive would be to maximize it's hit points for that encounter, if you don't bump it an age category. You could also be sure to have it make use of any/all items (that you perhaps changed?) in it's horde.

Sorry I can't be of more help but I don't have the module handy to reference, and I'm tired 'n about to head to bed. I'm certain that other B.A.D.D. members, or other Board Members, will be along to answer your questions.

Hatchling Dragon

 

[coyote6]

They could probably handle a more buff dragon, but on the other hand, keep in mind that there's a fair chance they won't be ready for dragon (spells prepped, tactics worked out, etc.) Plus, the dragon can exploit the lake pretty ruthlessly. So, the CR 4 dragon might be a decent fight for 'em. You could have the dragon attack them earlier, when they're crossing the rickety bridges. A PC falling in the water there stands a fair chance of drowning.

It largely depends on the particulars of the characters, and whether they're Expecting Dragon. If they've got fly, lightning bolt, water breathing, resist elements, and no acid spells prepped, that's one thing; but if they've got a bunch of dispel magics, stinking clouds, and Melf's acid arrows ready, and their full plate strapped, on they'll have things tough.