Confessions from a cursed dragon rider

So, you've met 'The Cursed Rider' in my initial post! I wanted to go a bit deeper into what makes this character tick and how I envision them in a fantasy setting, especially for D&D. Creating an original character, especially a dragon rider OC, allows for so much creative freedom, blending intriguing backstories with thrilling adventures. For me, the 'cursed' part isn't just a cool edgy detail; it's central to their journey. I imagine the curse as a powerful, ancient force, perhaps linked to a forgotten dragon pact or a dark ritual gone wrong. Maybe it manifests as a physical mark, or even causes their dragon companion to be... different. Not necessarily evil, but perhaps misunderstood or even 'haunted' in some way. This adds so much drama and potential for unique quests for a dragon traveler protagonist. It’s not just about the curse itself, but how it shapes their morality and choices, making every encounter a high-stakes decision. The bond between a rider and their dragon is always magical, but for 'The Cursed Rider', it's even more complex. Is their dragon affected by the curse? Do they share a 'dragon soul' connection that makes them inseparable, for better or worse? I'm thinking of a powerful but perhaps volatile partnership, where the dragon's own nature is intertwined with the rider's affliction. It's not just about riding a dragon; it's about navigating a shared destiny under a shadow, constantly battling external threats and internal struggles. If I were to bring this OC into a D&D game, I'm thinking a Paladin (Oathbreaker for the cursed vibe?) or a Ranger (maybe a homebrewed Dragon Warden subclass, or a Beast Master with a unique draconic companion). Imagine the party encountering this duo, perhaps they're known as a formidable, if enigmatic, force. The phrase 'RIDERS AT THE READY' from my image perfectly captures the feeling of this character and their dragon preparing for action. Their unique abilities and the narrative weight of their curse could even inspire new dragon rider games or scenarios within the campaign. Maybe they're seeking a 'cursed overlord guide' to break their affliction, or perhaps they're on a quest for the 'rebirth of the red dragon' to atone for something in their past, giving them a compelling main character arc. This OC isn't just a fighter; they're a survivor. Their curse provides endless roleplaying opportunities. Do they hide it? Do they embrace it? Are they trying to break it, or use it for good? This kind of character makes for a compelling protagonist in any fantasy narrative. I'm still fleshing out their backstory – was the curse a choice, or something thrust upon them? I love exploring how these elements influence their interactions and push their story forward, creating a truly rich, immersive world for them to explore. It’s all about making the character feel real and their struggles resonate. Creating an OC like this is so rewarding. What elements do you think make a great 'dragon rider oc'? What kind of curses have you explored in your own characters? I'd love to hear your thoughts and ideas!