Pyrespine

The Pyrespine(Latin name Draco Cuspis) is a highly aggressive breed of dragon closely related to the Firedrake.

Appearance
Pyrespines are named for the multitude of spikes on their body. They have spikes of all sizes on their limbs, shoulders, heads, tails, and even their wings. Placement varies between individuals, though most often Pyrespines have three spikes forming a sort of crest between their horns, and sharp upward-swept spikes on their shoulders. These dragons are invariable red-scaled, ranging from a bright crimson to a dull bloodred. Their eyes are amber and slit-pupilled. Pyrespines have the ability to stand on two legs but are essentially quadrapedal dragons. They have narrow but functional wings.

Evolution
Sometime before the Firedrake fully evolved, the Pyrespine split off from a common ancestor. An outside stimulus drove the Pyrespine to become more combative and aggressive than even the true Firedrake, and the species evolved to become a sort of living weapon.

Volcanic Pyrespines
Volcanic Pyrespines are a rare subspecies of Pyrespine that lives in volcanic regions. They are incredibly territorial, and much larger than their smaller relatives. They have a high tolerance for heat, perhaps even matching that of the Firedrake, as they too have been seen lairing in the lava of active volcanoes.

Territory
Pyrespines live in warm deserts and mountains, and have small enough territories that it is highly unusual for two to be seen together even during mating season. Trespassing in a Pyrespine's territory is dangerous as these dragons are very territorial and will kill intruders on sight.

Behavior
As mentioned before, Pyrespines are highly aggressive, territorial, and just in general volatile. They are also incredibly clever, and may ironically be one of the most intelligent breeds of dragon. A Pyrespine's combat sense is near unrivaled, and dracomancers that have this species employed relish the sheer cunning in battle that this dragon possesses. However, while some may be loyal, most are difficult to handle, and the dracomancer may often have to hurt the dragon physically in order to keep it in line.

Abilities
Pyrespines are similar to Firedrakes in that they have a high tolerance for heat and affinity for fire. However, they gain fire-based abilities less often than true firedrakes do, and more often individuals develop their own powers.