Gryphon riders have honed lesser magic, particularly mindwork, into a powerful weapon.
The protagonists are dragon riders engaged in a presumed relationship, flying at midnight to a sky full of stars—a scene suggesting secrecy and escape.
Tairn, one of the protagonist's dragons, reluctantly agrees to a risky midnight flight after midnight, fearing potential danger.
The flight requires caution due to the full moon, as the riders aim to keep a low profile.
There's a strong bond between the dragons and riders, allowing the riders' risky behavior to go unquestioned.
Tairn is protective and cautious, warning against the risks of such flights, especially near the territory of wyverns like Zolya.
Xaden, also a protagonist, shows confidence in handling his dragon Aetos.
The characters discuss the power dynamics and tensions between gryphons and dragons.
There is implied history of battles and past engagements with the mention of Resson.
The dragons land by a dark lake next to a glowing ridgeline, indicating a Poromish village is nearby.
A group of seven gryphons lands, showing that they are navigating a tense and possibly antagonistic meeting.
One of the gryphon riders, Syrena, is known to Xaden from previous encounters, hinting at complex past relations.
Xaden and Syrena have a tense conversation regarding the distribution of weapons and protection of wards.
The gryphons desire more weapons, and there's a sense of urgency due to attacks and a need for stronger defenses.
There is distrust and political tension between dragon riders and gryphon riders over resources and support.
Xaden's direct and rigid approach to war, sacrifice, and priorities is evident during the conversation.
There are hints at political intrigue involving a luminary, a forge, and supplying weaponry.
Personal relationships complicate the interactions, particularly between Xaden and a woman named Catriona.
Catriona expresses disdain toward Xaden, implying a personal history that is causing friction.
Xaden is stern, asserting the importance of completing the forge to supply weaponry to allies.
Syrena acknowledges that stopping attacks on outposts is difficult but necessary for mutual trust.
There's an acknowledgment of the overarching threat of the venin, a force threatening all involved.
The characters understand the importance of preparing for the coming war and securing their defenses.
The discussion reveals layers of politics, war strategy, and the precariousness of alliances.
Syrena expresses grudging respect for Tairn's intimidating presence.
The protagonists leave the meeting with a sense of foreboding and unresolved personal issues, as well as political and strategic tensions.