Riding is a multi-purpose skill. It deals with your ability to ride animals, to spur animals in battle, to lead animals about, and general your ability to master a dumb animal in day-to-day situations. The higher your riding skills, the greater your ability to control an animal to your wishes. Most Avalonians, whatever their citizenship, guild or age, will have a smattering of Riding skills and may be willing to teach you.
The most basic riding ability is mounting, dismounting, and movement on a steed. Young riders must stick to more docile steeds, but the more advanced can mount the likes of eagles, warhorses and even unicorns. To ride an animal type RIDE <animal> or to dismount type DISMOUNT <animal>. When mounted, you will be aided in your melee and will find movement about the land easier, less exhausting and safer.