Dragon riders are usually characterized by a bond with the beast they ride which results in a synchronous relationship between the two, a telepathic link, and no possibility that the two could ever be separated from each other without drastic consequences. They'd better get used to each other's company — they're stuck together for life! The plausibility of this trope depends on how intelligent the dragons are in this setting as well as what exactly the rider brings to the table. In some cases.