The Wyvern Riders

The greatest protectors of Droukar. Riding astride mighty wyvern's, these knights protect the entire kingdom. Numbering at about 500 wyverns. These creatures are kept at Dragons Gaze. Here they can reach any part of the kingdom quickly by using the mountainside to propel them forward. Though technically apart of the Kings Guard, the riders are given a great deal of control by the king to handle matters as they see fit. It is a great honor to be considered a wyvern rider and therefore a great deal of effort goes into selecting new members. It isn't strange for the riders to go without new members for years before deciding to choose another to join their ranks. Often it takes the retirement or death of a rider for this to even be considered.

Most confrontations a rider might partake in, come from the border skirmishes with the Badlands. These are usually against small regiments or warbands that have grown large enough in number that they think they can push their way into the kingdom. Lucky for the citizens of Droukar they have always been wrong. It doesn't take many wyverns to destroy an opposing force of hobgoblin invaders and with their superior movement and firepower, the battles are usually short-lived. Riders are typically treated with great respect amongst the populace of Droukar. It is not unusual for parades and celebrations to be had for a rider returning home for leave and or retiring from duty.

Structure

Commander

The highest-ranking official in the riders. The commander is voted into power democratically and is given supreme authority over the organization. Since the commander is voted in by a popular vote he usually regarded in high esteem. Other cases where the votes have been closer having proven otherwise though.

Knights

Fully-fledged riders that have proven themselves worthy of the order and have obtained the respect of a wyvern. These riders only answer to the commander himself and build ranks within themselves to create a hierarchy.

Unique Ranks

Some riders can't bond properly with a wyvern. Others possess great skills in other areas of expertise. These individuals still have the status of Knights but aren't expected to ride out and fight if needed. Examples include Hatcher, Saddle Master, and Caretaker.

Squires

Squires are people scouted out by the Riders for their achievements. Squires are upstanding citizens that are deemed worthy of controlling powerful beasts. Though uncommon in the current age, some aspiring riders may attempt to make the climb to Dragons Gaze, and if they succeed they are put through rigorous training to ensure they are worthy of consideration by the Riders.

Public Agenda

To protect Droukar and its people from the monsters that threaten it.

Assets

Dragons Gaze Keep, Wyverns

History

The Weapon that Ended the War

The wyverns were key to winning the war against Galdritz, an incredibly powerful and ancient red dragon. The Riders' ability to fight in the air evened the playing field between what would become the Kingdom of Droukar and the Inferno That Flies' forces. Air support drastically changed tactics when dealing with the waves of the hobgoblin and orcish invaders. When King Storth Redfirth mounted his crimson-scaled wyvern, Aingra, historians and scholars claim his fire was so intense it could melt metal and stone with ease. Many believed when Storth and Aingra were together they were unstoppable. Soldiers would scream war cries that could challenge thunder as Aingra flew overhead. The king earned the moniker the Scarlet Flame as the war went on.
The kingdom amassed three hundred wyvern riders to take on Graldrit. By the end of the last battle, known as Wyverns' Rain, only fifty-eight remained. Having achieved victory and creating the treaty that formed the Kingdom of Droukar, the Treaty of Mixed Blood, the King had no idea about what should be done with the remaining wyverns. Initially, the powerful beasts were allowed to return home with their riders. This would prove to be a mistake.

We Tame the Skies.

Founding Date

4/10/19

Type

Military, Air Force

Alternative Names

The Dragon Slayers, Sky Dancers

Training Level

Elite

Veterancy Level

Decorated/Honored

Demonym

Riders

Leader

Andrin Greskin

Parent Organization

Royal Guard

Location

Sworheil

Notable Members

• Andrin Greskin
• Anselm Vorn
• Lisha Portok