How do I get dragons to show up?

[Acrux]

I've never had dragons spawn in any of my playthroughs (Acheron excepted). Are there any particular events that need to be in place for a dragon to appear? Is there anything I can do to increase my chances of seeing a dragon?

 

[CyberForte]

Aside from Archeron, all the rest are civilizations' heros that require the Divine Essence tech. Abashi and Eurobates (the Sheaim and Kuriote heroes respectively) can be built directly, whilst Drifta requires you to have destroyed at least one civilization whilst following The White Hand (I believe? Or is it still Illians only? I've never really tried a non-Illian WH game), and then that you complete the ritual Stir from Slumber.

If you mean the drake units, I believe they spawn from lairs and/or are high level animals that spawn after the 4 magic school techs have been researched.
-CF

 

[Valkrionn]

CyberForte is correct. And Drifa IS for the White Hand.

 

[Acrux]

Ah, yes, I was referring to the drakes. I suppose I've just been unlucky so far, then.