Above the Keep, Volume 3
This page contains the text of a book that can be found in game and is IC knowledge.
Above the Keep - By Lorelai Silvermoon Volume 3
Upon the next morning marked for the lessons' continuation, Cole begs his leave for a few minutes, before returning from within the lower floors of the Castle, two fellow Champions in tow. With them they bring a large work of leather and metal, their presence required else he would be forced to drag it up the stairs.
He inclines his head to the two as they depart, their task completed, before turning his focus once more to his fellows and the new saddle now shown in completion. Noticeably more lithe than the 'double princess bus' design, it sits one rider and looks to weigh considerably less. Movement is less constricted with less straps present, though a few strategically placed ones remain for security, should the clips fail. The 'clips' are just that ... set into the 'stirrups' upon each side of the saddle, there are dwarven made mechanisms designed to pair with matching works that a rider may slide onto his boots. When engaged, it locks the riders feet into place, securing them to their mount. A pre-designed amount of pressure and motion may unlock the mechanisms, allowing a rider off when they wish it ... with minimal need for unstrapping and buckling.
Built for battle, its lighter nature weighs the dragon down as little as possible without flying bareback, with little in the way of protection for the rider ... instead set with design to rely on the dragons' natural backridges as armor.
Set ahead of the main pommel of the saddle, the point to hold on ... is space for ones primary weapon to be set. This model includes a swordsheathe secured in this position, though Cole mentions it could just as easily hold a strap for a warhammer or any other weapon.
On the right side, the saddle contains two long-looped leather fastenings, explained as spear-holders. And upon the left there are other straps, explained to be used for securing quivers.
After explaining the new design, Cole looks to Lymonious and aids Naia in removing the heavier design as the dragon grunts moving up and down to accommodate the scurrying mortals.
With the new one in place, Cole begins to train on the shining gold dragon without a second rider watching his movements ... though receiving the escaped earful of advice when returning to the ground.
He mentions that now that it seems to suit well, more can be made ... and the 'double princess bus' is set to be used in others' training when they decide.