So, while not what i had been thinking... Blizzard gave me an idea. What if Orien (or whatever his name is) isn't really a human but an ancient beast similar to dragons but not of the same race. Able to control dragons with fear, not will power because he is a creature of such greater magic that its frightening.

And maybe the beast isn't actually him but has taken his body as its own and intends to do the same to Ava but was waiting for her to finish growing first. Because growing pains are uncomfortable in someone else's skin.