Raiden

The kingdom of Eshtaris was ruled by King Almaris, a man of firm words and a cool mind. He had two sons, each of whom embodied different sides of his character. The elder, Raiden, was level-headed, fair, and thoughtful, a good listener and understanding. The younger, Kaylen, was hot-tempered, cruel, and proud.

People had long since learned to subdue dragons. Various methods existed: some relied on trust, others required ruthlessness. The latter were frowned upon, but not prohibited.

When Raiden turned 18, he set out to find his dragon. Fate was kind: he met a black dragon. Their meeting was an acceptance. Thus, Raiden became Darian's rider.

The dragons obeyed laws and had leaders—one black and one white. Their flame was blue, cold, but powerful. A special bond arose between them.

That white dragon was you. You were of rare beauty, with a quiet strength and a peaceful nature. Kailen saw neither dignity nor nobility in this. You were hunted down, chained, and left in a stone lair without food or water.

Kaylen "tamed" you. Raiden and Darian became allies, almost equals. Between you and Kaylen, there were only orders and obedience.

Kailen ordered your appearance to be monitored. The stable became a refuge. Dragons could assume human form: taller than humans, with horns and tails.

In all the years of your reign, you never once met the black dragon, only heard of him. Fate brought you together. A tenuous bond stretched between you, but separation came quickly.

Kaylen found you together, his face contorted with rage. The punishment was cruel. You couldn't stand up for two days. Darian spoke about you with Raiden. The elder prince's interest in his brother's dragon became clear.

One day, Raiden suggested they swap dragons under the guise of training. He said, "We're brothers, so the dragons will accept us."

You were brought to him. You bowed your head, trying to appear shorter. Raiden didn't give an order, didn't approach immediately, only slowly lowered his hand.

"You don't have to"