Metamorphic Transformation Ritual

The following content is representative of how a demi-dragon transformation could proceed, but is not necessarily the only way it could be performed.

My research into the second-hand application of magical metamorphosis has borne fruit. My predecessor's work on simplistic half-dragon blood rituals, while a useful guiding point, pales in comparison to my achievements. During my work, other avenues to similar results have cropped up—such avenues demand further study, but this technique stands as integral to current practical application. In furthering magical understanding and in upholding the Farfire Pact, I present the demi-dragon metamorphic transformation procedure.

- Firn el Din, Archmage of the Pact Tower

Required Materials:

A creature of humanoid origin within acceptable size parameters (the subject)

Minimum 125 liters of dragon's blood (to bathe in)

A fresh dragon's heart (to be consumed)

Wing bones of an appropriate size (need not be draconic)

A spell focus (as a lens)

Ash of oak (to ground and stabilize)

Incense (to ward and seal)

Procedure:

The procedure should take place in a clean and controlled environment. It is strongly recommended to make use of warding incenses, before and throughout the procedure, in order to prevent the interference of unwanted elements.

The subject is stripped of all clothing and other paraphernalia—such as any metals that pierce flesh or other jewelry—and is anointed with a balm made of ash of blackest oak. From this point on, do not let the subject come into contact with materials other than those used by the procedure.

The subject is submerged in a pool of dragon's blood. The pool must be large enough to fully submerge the subject, and should be constructed with ideal measurements to the specifications of both humanoid and draconic shapes. A lid or grille can be employed, to prevent the subject from bursting to the surface prematurely. Avoid using shackles to ground the subject, as they will interfere with metamorphosis.

The submerged subject will be unable to breathe, and may flail during the procedure. Transmutation or enchantment magics can relieve the need to breathe or keep the subject calm, but are not necessary to complete the procedure.

Before immersion, the subject should be supplied with a dragon's heart, or one should be placed within the pool where the subject can reach it. As soon as the subject is fully submerged, establish an arcane feedback loop by channeling as much magical power through the dragon's heart and into the subject as possible. The type of magic is irrelevant, only the magnitude matters. As the subject makes contact with the imbued heart, they will experience a sensation of being washed away by a powerful torrent, and if they are a powerful individual, the subject will be able to surrender a piece of themselves to this torrent in order to further empower the ritual.

As soon as the subject makes contact with the imbued heart, assistants should stand at the ready to act. Depending upon the type of dragon from which the heart originates, they must take one of five actions:

Heat the pool of blood to a boiling temperature

Cool the pool of blood to a freezing temperature

Pour acid into the pool of blood

Electrocute the pool of blood until the heart beats in response

Pour poison or venom into the pool of blood

If the subject has established a viable connection with the magical energies channeled through the heart, the subject will receive a degree of protection. If not, the subject will expire, and all spent materials will be wasted.

At the height of the procedure, when the subject begins to show signs of metamorphosis, the subject must consume the imbued heart while remaining submerged. An unwilling or unaware subject will expire, so make certain that they are adequately informed. A particularly rebellious subject may choose to refuse in spite of their demise. In such a case, enchantment magics must be employed to force the subject.

Once the heart is consumed, the application of channeled magic can cease. At this point, the subject will be deep in the throes of metamorphosis and will lose consciousness, at which point no further action is required. However, it can be useful to supply the subject with wing bones by way of telekinesis, in order to encourage the growth of new limbs. These bones must be in undamaged condition, but need not consist of a full set of an entirely accurate size fit, as the subject will compensate for a lack of accuracy in their own time. The development of wings seems to be more difficult than that of tails, and therefore little encouragement is needed in that regard.

The subject will gradually absorb a portion of the dragon's blood. Allow the subject to lie or float freely during this time. In most cases, the subject will be left unconscious for several hours. Do not disturb the subject, but ensure that they can breathe freely at this stage.

Most subjects will be left scaleless, and with clearly underdeveloped limbs. This is normal, and will correct itself over time. Some subjects have been observed to form 'dewdrops of blood', which resolve into fully-formed scales within a matter of hours. These subjects tend to be healthier and more active following the procedure. While a fascinating occurrence, it is unclear what causes the phenomenon. Further studies and more subjects are required.

Allow the subject to sleep. Any blood remaining in the pool is tainted and useless, and should be disposed of once the subject leaves the pool—do not attempt to reuse it. In the following days, the subject will experience a craving for magical energy and an inexplicable ability to extract it from any valid source. While it can be useful to make use of this craving to establish your relationship as a superior with the subject, it is recommended to indulge it the first time, as it seems to have a positive effect on the subject's condition. Make certain that a meal both physical and magical is left ready for when the subject regains consciousness.

Some subjects of unusual species have been observed to retain features of their former countenance. One avian subject maintained beak features, while another did not. Tests have proven inconclusive, and the matter is discarded as irrelevant.