in terms of the question “well why would a dragon need a rider” there are two answers
the practical answer is it’s nice to have someone who fills the shotgun seat role. a rider can read a map midair, choose the music, and shoot weapons at other dragon riders if necessary, all things a dragon would have to stop flying to do effectively
the fun answer is, who doesn’t love having a little creature with you? humans fill the “comfort plushie” role for a dragon, but they’re even better because they’re alive













