[centre][hider=Dawn breaks.][youtube]https://youtu.be/fyY8H6KYIkw?si=TsvxB8WbtNiK9uXy[/youtube][/hider][/centre]
Cold winds howled as they swept across the peaks of the Sunspire Mountains. An apron of snow covered each and every one, transforming what would have been a series of jagged rock and harsh points into small islands of haven; welcoming enough for a dragon to perch upon as its rider looked out to a sea of clouds all around, keeping vigil of the skies above.

Many times before had the pair beheld such scenery. Though both were far from the places of their birth, the dragon rider [url=https://www.roleplayerguild.com/posts/5658850]Jinan Khai[/url] would not complain were he to see it many more times for the rest of his days. Bereft of lands, titles and all other things a man of Norsinia might value, these serene summits were as much a home to him as the grassy steppes of Feros ever were.

With eyes as grey as storm clouds, Jinan looked to the east where the sun began its ascent, casting a golden glow upon the clouds. Such splendour... It was difficult to imagine that war might rise from there anyday now. [i]Do the riders of Kovos not look upon the same sight?[/i] Jinan wondered as he shook his head. [i]Would the Empire truly take even that away after it had already taken so much?[/i]

The dragon stirred and Jinan reached down to pat the neck of his ever faithful companion, Duan. With scales as black as night and fins of brilliant gold, he was as fine a beast as any other. The finest in Jinan's eyes.

[b]"I am sorry,"[/b] he said as the dragon turned to face him, scarlet eyes narrowed in contentment. [b]"I didn't mean to think such sad thoughts. I'll not burden you with my worries any longer."[/b]

Casting one last look towards the rising sun, Jinan adjusted the cloak around his shoulders and gathered up the reins attached to Duan's riding harness as he said, [b]"Come, let's get ready for patrol."[/b]

As if on cue, several dragons and their riders burst forth from the clouds as they rose above the mountain peaks. With an unhurried pace, Jinan made some final checks on various straps and fittings before taking wing to join his squadron.