The Ancients

Lore & Background

The fall of the Ancients occurred during a cataclysmic event known as the Great War, where the sorcerer Gnasty Gnorl and his minions launched a surprise attack on the dragon homeworlds. In this devastating conflict, the Ancients were either killed or forced into a deep magical slumber to preserve their fading power. Their disappearance left the dragons vulnerable, leading to the capture of countless eggs and the scattering of survivors like Spyro's parents. The loss of the Ancients created a vacuum in leadership that allowed evil to fester until the young dragon Spyro eventually rose to restore peace.

In Their Own Story

The wind howled through the ruins of the Elder Council chamber, carrying the scent of old magic and ash. A single, flickering flame danced atop an ancient pedestal where once the Ancients had gathered in solemn unison. Now, only echoes remained—whispers of a time when dragons stood tall against the darkness, their scales shimmering with protective runes. In the silence, a small blue dragon paused, sensing the lingering warmth of those who came before. Though they were gone, their spirit lingered in every egg saved and every realm reclaimed, a silent promise that hope had not yet faded from the world.

Reader's Guide

The Ancients functioned as the supreme governing body and spiritual leaders of the Dragon Realms prior to the Great War. Their primary goal was to ensure the safety and continuity of dragonkind by protecting the eggs and maintaining harmony between the various homeworlds.

Membership in this order consisted exclusively of dragons who had reached a state of extreme age and magical mastery. While specific names are rarely mentioned, their collective presence was felt across all realms, acting as both judges and guardians against external threats like Gnasty Gnorl.

In the context of the conflict, the Ancients were the first line of defense that ultimately failed to prevent the initial devastation, leading to a period of darkness for dragonkind. Their legacy serves as the foundation for Spyro's journey, as he unknowingly carries their burden of restoring what they once held dear.

Did You Know?

• The Ancients are believed to have created the magical barriers that separated the different Dragon Realms from one another.
• Their disappearance during the Great War directly led to the capture of thousands of dragon eggs by Gnasty Gnorl's forces.
• Spyro and his friends often receive guidance or visions linked to the lingering magic left behind by these ancient dragons.
• The order was so powerful that even after their fall, their influence continued to protect certain sacred locations from total destruction.