Great Longma Riders

Great Longma Riders ride to war upon the longma, the legendary dragon-horses of Cathay: noble beasts with the bodies of powerful steeds, the scales and horns of dragons, and broad wings that carry them through the air. Sacred to the Celestial Court, longma are hard to raise and harder to master, and only the most honoured warriors may ride them. In battle the Longma Riders are a swift and terrible force, sweeping over the field to strike where they are least expected, falling upon war-machines, wizards, and vulnerable flanks before wheeling away beyond reach. Their charge carries the shock of heavy cavalry with the freedom of flight, and few enemies can withstand the sight of jade-armoured riders descending from the clouds on beating wings. Some longma breathe elemental storms as their dragon-kin do, adding fire or lightning to the fury of their charge. Proud, glorious, and rare, they are among the most treasured soldiers of the empire, and their coming turns the tide of many a desperate battle.