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Rider's Name: T'mor
Rider's Age: 27
Dragon's Name: Phylideth
Dragon's Age: 5
Dragon Color: Brown
Which Weyr are they Stationed at? Western Weyr
Are they an approved PC or someone made specifically for the contest?
Approved PC
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Rider's Personality:
No, you may not have any cookies before you’ve finished your spinach! If there was someone you’d call Mr. Dad, it’s T’mor; excellent with children and firelizards. He’s not easy to walk over, however, and will expect all responsibilities that have been divvied around – his or not – are taken care of. In fact, T’mor is a man that is very reliable, seeming to actually enjoy having an agenda of work to do.

In the name of all bad-habits, though, he’s a late-sleeper and sometimes it takes anxious-to-get-going-at-the-day Phylideth to get him rolled out of bed and out of his ‘not-a-morning-person’ mentality. A good cup of klah and some bleary minutes pass though and then he’s ready to start scooping up children and running around on the beach.

Given his affinity for chilluns, T’mor isn’t the type to take heavy risks when he has a responsibility for someone else, more aware of how his actions weigh on others,. He tends to be a guy who will take a hit for the team and he doesn’t mind coming home a little bruised. Despite his adoration of children, he has expectations for them to stand on their own feet and fight their own battles, never running to the rescue unnecessarily, having the patience to sit such things out without getting anxious, though if this was developed from childhood or from having a fussy brown could be debated.

If you can’t carry your own weight, T’mor isn’t going to volunteer to do it, though when asked he doesn’t exactly have the heart to turn someone down (especially if there’s a sob-story attached). He does have his limits at how long he’ll let his favors be used before he gets upset, though for ‘T'mor’ upset is telling the classroom there are no more glue rights until he peels all of the glue that’s been overused on one project off of it and is never more than a frown and a final ‘No’ for a while.
Rider's History:
A child of two bakers, it was normal that their noodle-y-appendaged-excuse for a son also took up the craft, the family moving in to a local Weyr when Taimor was about 8-turns-old, given how many people came in and out of the area and allowed for the boy to get a lot of experience in his craft, as well as an eyeful of the candidates and the later-impression of their dragonets, practically gluing himself to tables after impressions and at the previous gathers involved.

It was to no surprise to Taimor’s parents when he finally hit impression-age that he pleaded with them for their approval for candidacy (and by pleaded, it took nearly a full turn to get them to cave in). His parents assumed that after a failed impression or two the glamour would wear off, but to their surprise at his third standing a very striking looking brown hit the sands along with a bronze clutchmate and suddenly threw a fit!

Mine! MINE!! THEY ARE NOT LOOKING AT ME MINE! WHY DO I NOT GET MY MOMENT? HE HAS STOLEN IT! TAIMORMINE!!!!

The brown thrashed in such a fit that it was almost surprising how quickly the boy was able to subdue the brat of a dragon before it finally calmed and made its way across the sands, hissing towards any of his bronze brethren and, unfortunately for Taimor… T’mor, fussing over his first meal. EVERYTHING had to be the way HE wanted it or he wouldn’t eat it.

T'mor has since settled calmly into his position as a wingrider, even if the dragon he's attached to can be a little...fussy to get to do what is needed.
Where did your rider Impress from? Western

How long as he been stationed at High Reaches or Western Weyr? Since Impression

How do they feel about Thread's return? Thread's return is a real threat and while his bootstraps were pulled up before it returned, they're pulled all the way up to his knees now.

How do they feel about their current Weyr? Western has a good heart and a lot of good people in it. He feels a strong affinity to the Weyr that birthed his beautiful (bratty) brown as well as the people in it.

Why do they want to be a Wingleader, ICly? T'mor has a fatherly heart and a lot of still-youthful (if not slightly creaky at time) energy. He wants solely to empower both himself and others to be able to protect the people of Pern as well as their homes. Plus he feels like the responsibility would give him a goal that both he AND his brown would be able to use to hopefully work out some of those youthful tantrums with.

Why do you (OOCly) think they'd be a good fit? T'mor spends every day reigning in an enormous baby and getting him on task. While other people may not be as psychically connected (or easy to direct), his want to bond strongly with a group and make them the best they can be (just like a certain bratty brown) as well as a can-do attitude will at least keep him at it and keep him from being let down - or letting others get down if a drill doesn't go as well as they would have liked. Plus it's always been one of his IC character goals.

Do you have any plans or ideas on what you'd do with one of the Wings if given one? SHENANIGANS. All the shenanigans.

Rider's Name: C'tus
Rider's Age: 38
Dragon's Name: Cephith
Dragon's Age: 20
Dragon Color: Bronze
Which Weyr are they Stationed at? High Reaches Weyr
Are they an approved PC or someone made specifically for the contest? Premade character: MH 3, MH 1, MH 6, Tarazet, Tanakako, MH 4

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Rider's Personality: C'tus is not the kind of bronze rider that stands out. He doesn't make inspirational speeches or big flashy maneuvers within a wing. He's the kind of guy you don't really notice, but wouldn't be surprised to see in a position of power. He has a level-headed, unshakable demeanor and a reputation as being someone who can help you with your problem, whatever it may be. A broker of information, C'tus knows something about everything. He prides himself on finding out what people want, and is always happy to help.. for a price. He'll never say so in such certain terms, but anyone who knows how to play the game will know how to talk to him.

C'tus is true neutral, serving himself and his small nucleus of friends before anyone else. He doesn't have any wicked intentions. Though he's happy to tread on the wrong side of a grey area, he'd just as soon do something genuinely good if he thought there was some benefit in it. Though seemingly unconcerned with morality (one way or another), C'tus has his own code. He doesn't lie, back stab, or cheat. The information he gives is always good. That's more a matter of survival and principle though.

For now, C'tus seems as staunchly traditional as anyone in the Weyr. Indeed, many have used his help to quell dissidents within their wings. Yet to assume to know his true opinion on the matter would be a mistake. For now, it is in his benefit to keep the status quo. But he may well have a 'change of heart' the minute he sees the tides turning.

Those directly under his command will find him to be a surprisingly thoughtful leader. He will know all of his riders names, the names of the families, any past craft experience, and hobbies. Of course, he'll also know every infraction they've ever committed, or even thought of committing, but he'll mostly keep quiet about that. Still, he knows who he needs to keep an eye on, and the rising stars that he should watch for other reasons.

Rider's History: C'tus was born at High Reaches Weyr. The child of a bronze and gold rider, he was given up to the creche at a young age, as one would expect. He was fostered by an old Harper, the kind that didn't seem to spend much time singing.. The man was more a spy than a musician, hired by Holders across the continent to gather information for them and be their eyes and ears within a crowd. He had recently taken up a position within the Weyr and was eager to foster C'tus as a means of gaining access to his parents, who were both high ranking riders within the Weyr.

Still, the man raised C'tus alongside his own son, and treated them just the same. He taught both of them how to play politics from an early age, passing on as much wisdom as he could to the two young boys. He had considerable respect for dragonriders and their role on Pern, something that was lacking in many at that time, and imbued in both of them a healthy regard for the natural chain of command, at the same time as he taught them to strive to be at the top of it.

Like all Weyr-bred boys, C'tus Stood as a Candidate as soon as he was 14 turns old, but he was destined to be disappointed for a while. It wasn't until he was 18, and his little brother was Standing for the first time, that it finally happened. His brother had just impressed to a large and healthy brown, and he was sure he was never going to live this down, when a voice spoke in his head, calling to him! His bronze Cephith made sure that he wasn't one-upped by his brother, though while they teased, in fact the boys remained quite close throughout their weyrlinghood.

Even before they graduated, C'tus started putting to use the things his adopted father taught him. But while his brother became a social butterfly, C'tus sat back and simply listened, relying on him and others to report what they heard. Outwardly, he seemed like a serious and diligent bronzerider, well liked by his teachers and regarded with neutral to positive feelings by most of his clutchmates. His quiet studiousness made him seem easy to approach by many, and he would help many of the shyer or more timid members of their clutch and listen to their grievances with a patient and understanding ear.

One of these was a fellow bronzerider who had impressed from the stands. He was being picked on by some of the other weyrlings, led by a bluerider, whose friends had failed to impress. Had their colors been reversed, he probably would have stayed out of it. But seeing an opportunity, he asked the boy if he wanted him to take care of it. Thinking he was joking, he just laughed and said he didn't think there was anything he could do. But over the next few sevendays, he set it up so the bluerider would make several obvious and embarrassing mistake (due to their tampering of course). Working with his brother, he was able to turn the tide of opinion against him, twisting the stories so it seemed like the other bronzerider was just taking the higher ground, while he was being unnecessarily petty. Before long, the faction against him had broken up and scattered.

C'tus never directly admitted to having anything to do with it, but his actions won him the support of a fellow bronzerider from that day on. C'tus continued to operate this way for many turns, helping people out behind the scenes while never asking for anything in returned. And yet, when push came to shove, he knew he had dozens of people he could rely on whenever he needed a favor.

While rising in ranks, he's continued to broker deals in the background. You want to know who's causing problems in your wing? Want a certain rider to go away? Need to know where you can get your hands on some felis? C'tus knows how to fix your problems, and he's traded favors all the way to the top. Though to most people in the Weyr just see him as a quiet, well-mannered bronzerider, those entrenched within the politics of the Weyr will know what he's about. And there's a rumor that his current rank is the result of some such shady underdealing.

Where did your rider Impress from? High Reaches

How long as he been stationed at High Reaches or Western Weyr? 20 turns as a rider, but lived there his whole life,

How do they feel about Thread's return? Not terribly sympathetic to those outside his inner circle, C'tus doesn't particularly care about thread's return, as long as all of those he cares about are safe. Rather, he sees it as an opportunity, coming at an excellent time to catapult dragonriders to the top of the social ladder and reinforce their importance on Pern for generations to come. His dragon is more inclined to fight it, and of course, C'tus will seem as passionate on that point as he thinks is necessary to improve his image.

How do they feel about their current Weyr? The status quo is working fairly well for C'tus at the moment. He has no strong opinions that bronzes are better, but the fact that he rides one means that he wants to make sure they stay on top. He loves politics itself more than he cares about any one set of ideals, it just happens to be a lot more interesting here at High Reaches than anywhere else right now.

Why do they want to be a Wingleader, ICly? There are many riders who seem rough and uncaring, but deep deep down really just want to serve the Weyr. C'tus is not one of those riders. Rather the opposite. Deep, deep down, he really just wants to serve himself. It just so happens that the best way to do that right now is for him to make sure that the Weyr succeeds in any way he can. He wants to solidify his own position and has been building up a number of success over the turns to put himself in a strong position for future rank.

Why do you (OOCly) think they'd be a good fit? Though he doesn't care, C'tus will act no differently than one who does. Except that, perhaps, a more dispassionate approach will give him the unbiased level headedness that will ultimately help him to make better decisions in the moment. He doesn't hesitate over agonizing about who he might hurt, but makes calculated choices to maximize his commodities; and that includes the lives of his wingriders. In the end, C'tus will be an excellent wingleader because it suits his own purposes to be one.

Do you have any plans or ideas on what you'd do with one of the Wings if given one? I'd be happy to run the typical wing drill RPs and solo RPs if people want, as well as the shady side of things if anyone's interested. I'll probably quest C'tus as a regular bronzerider if he isn't picked, and he can just be a shady information broker.

Rider's Name: V'lik
Rider's Age: 47
Dragon's Name: Raith
Dragon's Age: 32
Dragon Color: Blue

Which Weyr are they Stationed at? Western Weyr
Are they an approved PC or someone made specifically for the contest? Contest Created
--->If made for the contest, are you going for a semi-custom color or a pre-made bronze? Semi-custom
--->If pre-made bronze, what's your preference? N/A
--->If semi-custom, list a color (white, green, blue, or brown) and inspiration image or palette? Bloooo (but with some thread scars if possible?)

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Rider's Personality:
A sincere hard worker, V'lik does not know how to offer anything less then 110% when he works at a task. He will not waste any part of the day and has been known to train with his dragon, and on occasion his wingmates, well after the sun has set. A day will not be truly accomplished unless something is achieved. While this might make others feel he is a tough individual to impress or be around, it is rather the opposite. V'lik takes great pride in seeing those who ask him for assistance slowly begin to improve on those sweeping dives. Or getting into formation just a half-mark faster than their previous attempt. He's just not very good at voicing this.

V'lik will be quite strict on himself and any others that he will be forced to rely upon. This could be fellow wingmates or weyrfolk. He expects a lot out of his fellow riders and will try to push them to their limits, encouraging them to rise up beyond even that. He believes that if he is able to push himself further, then anyone can do it too, if they set their mind to it. Quitting is not an option. Thread will not wait for anyone. If they are to succeed, then they must be ready for anything. Doing less will only result in the loss of even more lives and riders.

While his expectations may seem impossible and his ways harsh, V'lik is a good man at heart. He truly cares about those he and his dragon must protect, knowing that they are not fully prepared to combat Thread like dragonriders once were. They allowed themselves to become lazy. Did not school themselves in maintaining drills meant to keep all of Pern safe. This has become a passionate drive for why he will not let himself or his dragon ever be considered lazy or unprepared. Now, he just has to convince the rest of the weyr to feel the same.

Rider's History:
Valik was the second born son to fairly prominent architect of Monaco Bay Hold. His father was a driven man that made sure his designs were followed to a "T" when structures were built. He designed them they way they were for a reason, and to deviate from this lead to the possibility of a faulty structure. And that was just not something Volarik would have. Said to be a strict and gruff man, Volarik ran his household much the same way he did his craft. So, it was no surprise that as soon as Valik was old enough to walk, his father handed him a hammer and told his son to familiarize himself with its weight and put little Valik to work.

While his father seemed tough, Valik never once felt unloved. His father taught him to be a sturdy individual that could accomplish greater things if he put his mind to it and pushed himself. Valik worked hard each day, delighted in the small accomplishments he would make. By the time he was 10 turns, he was already much bigger than other boys his age. And much thicker skinned. His days fell into a routine of getting up before the sun rose, working under his father, setting himself a goal for the day he had to achieve or a task he had to improve at by the setting sun, then reviewing what he'd learned from the day and what he would do the next day before bed. Only to repeat the next day.

However, there was one particular thing that Valik began to enjoy that had nothing to do with his growing skill in the smithcraft. It was by chance, one evening, he'd wound up talking to the Hold's watchrider. The old man and his dragon were more than happy to tell tales of what dragonmen were like and how they had fought Thread so many turns ago. Valik was fascinated by the harper tales he was told. And even more so by the dragon of the rider. And when his 15th turn came about, the old man took Valik to the Weyr where everything changed.

A Hatching was to be held. Something that did not happen at Monaco very often (if at all). And Valik himself was chosen to be a candidate that would Stand when the time came. His father was both pleased and irritated that his son was chosen. Pleased as it would bring his family more prestige. Irritated as it meant he could lose one of his best workers. Valik was torn, wanting to continue to work hard for his father and secretly wanting very much to be a rider, like those the old man always spoke about. In the end, he threw himself into learning everything he could about dragons in the short period of time he had before the eggs were hard enough on the Sands. Never having been a slacker, and he did quite well in all his lessons, even with such a small period of time.

When the day of the Hatching finally came, Valik stood with all the other boys and watched as Candidate after Candidate Impressed. He began to doubt himself a little, fear trickling in that he would not find a dragon for him that day. That is until one particular blue burst out of his shell. His eyes were whirling a dangerous red and he made sure to crunch the egg shell under his feet a little more. With a huff and a bellow for good measure. And then he proceeded to waltz up to the boys, knocking a few off their feet until he butted his head against Valik.

Valikmine come now. My belly growls and your Raith does not like it!

Thus, Raith Impressed to Valik, who took the honorific of V'lik. And the young weyrling quickly learned that not only was Raith the most amazing dragon ever...he was also the most cranky sharding beast in all of Pern as well. The two would butt heads and argue, with the ending result being one or the other chuckling. They worked well together, Raith's competitive nature mixing nicely with V'lik's hard working and goal oriented one. The two loved challenging themselves and other weyrlings, which evolved into challenging fellow rider's when they were finally out of weyrling hood. Raith truly was everything V'lik had ever expected and more.

As soon as they graduated from Weyrlinghood, the pair transferred to Western Weyr, where the old man watchrider had originated from. He'd always told V'lik how nice the non-traditional weyr was. And for V'lik, it was the perfect place for him and Raith to accomplish more than they could anywhere else. He wanted them to be as skilled as they possibly could be without anyone holding Raith back due to the color of his hide. Something that worked nicely for Raith himself. He dearly enjoyed challenging his bronze brothers to help him become a stronger blue.

The return of Threadfall was nothing but disastrous. Not only was it a shock to all of Pern, but it was a massive eye opener for V'lik. He realized, while tending to the threadscores Raith had received, just how unprepared they all had been. These were most definitely not the rider's he'd dreamed of being. And worse yet, even for all the hard work he and his dragon did, it had still not been enough. That was a blow that almost incapacitated the man. But Raith wasn't ready to throw in the towel and how dare his rider let his emotions get the better of him! They had work to do. And a lot of it.

Now, the pair is working double time to perfect their flying abilities and maneuverability. They are testing themselves to find their strengths and weaknesses, to use one to their advantage and find ways around the latter. V'lik has become quite vocal about encouraging his fellow dragonmen to challenge themselves and work harder. They had to be prepared for the next Fall. There was no failing this time.

Where did your rider Impress from?
Monaco Bay Weyr.

How long as he been stationed at High Reaches or Western Weyr?
For 31 turns. He Impressed Raith at Monaco Bay Weyr and transferred to Western when he learned of their non-traditional ways.

How do they feel about Thread's return?
V'lik feels as if there was a part of Pern that was lost forever. Too many lives were taken by the laziness of the Weyrs who had forgotten the drills and hard work that meant becoming a dragonrider. They were unprepared and that is unacceptable. Only one single Weyr was ready. Because of this, V'lik is very fearful for his own Weyr and those not of High Reaches. He's made it his deepest goal to find ways to encourage those who survived and those who are just becoming dragonriders to once again take on the burden of defending Pern from it's greatest enemy. For dragonriders must fly, when Thread is in the sky.

How do they feel about their current Weyr?
V'lik greatly admires his Weyr for their ability to recognize a dragon and rider pair are not held back simply by the color of a dragon's hide. They have made their Weyr stronger, in his opinion, by giving those with true potential the opportunity they have been cheated for so many turns. It gives him honor to call himself a rider of Western. However, he feels the Weyr as a whole is inadequately prepared for the long battle ahead. They, as too many others, let themselves believe Thread was gone forever. This belief led to less strict practices as well as making riders seem like the parasites many Holds named them to be.

Why do they want to be a Wingleader, ICly?
V'lik wants to crack the whip and get the Weyr properly prepared. There is still a part of him that is embarrassed at dragonkind and riders for allowing themselves to fall to such a pitiful state. He is ready to be harsh and push everyone to their limits. He understands there is no room left for failure. Either they step up their game, or they will fall like the other Weyrs have. And that is not something V'lik is willing to accept. He will be the hard and unwavering rock needed to create strong wings ready to fly Thread.

Why do you (OOCly) think they'd be a good fit?
There are still many riders and dragons out there that are not prepared to fight Thread, and some of them may become leaders in their own time. V'lik will be a strong presence to instill the importance of maintaining proper wings and preparing individuals for what is to come and how to not cower in fear. Thread is a frightening adversary, but V'lik will make sure that the passion to protect ones home is stronger than that fear.

Do you have any plans or ideas on what you'd do with one of the Wings if given one? I have a few ideas for some sort of wing drill events or fun prompt based RNG games for wingmembers to participate in! ICly, V'lik would expect his wing to practice hard, so I'd probably attempt to host small wing events (most likely the fun RNG style games). Would also enjoy doing some sort of wingsecond creation/promotion event as well!

Rider's Name: Z'haq
Rider's Age: 29
Dragon's Name: Eorawth
Dragon's Age: 13
Dragon Color: Bronze
Which Weyr are they Stationed at? Western Weyr
Are they an approved PC or someone made specifically for the contest? specifically for the contest
---->If made for the contest, are you going for a semi-custom color or a pre-made bronze? pre-made bronze
--->If pre-made bronze, what's your preference? MH5, MH1, MH4, MH6, MH3, Tanakako

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Rider's Personality:
Z'haq is definitely not your traditional bronzerider! Happy, good-natured, friendly and self-effacing, he lacks the arrogance of many of his fellows. He possesses a natural leadership ability, though he'd be the last to acknowledge it. He often ends up "taking charge" when things go south, just because someone has to -- he's not the least bit bossy, just very good at crisis management.

Z'haq is one of those people who has absolutely no fear -- again, this doesn't come from arrogance, but rather from not understanding precisely what it is he's supposed to be afraid of or why. He has good common sense and a healthy respect for things that may harm him, like Thread of course, but he doesn't fear them. He won't hesitate to help someone in trouble -- he'll dive right in to help them without a thought of any potential danger to himself.

Z'haq loves the sea; he's lived near the sea his entire life, and is very happy to be near it at Western. He had a close, tight-knit relationship with the crew of his father's ship, which he's been able to transfer to his wingmates, who find in him a steadfast and loyal comrade. His Wing is his new family (and his Flight his extended family), and he's very protective of those he considers family.

He's not perfect, mind you. He has some residual confidence issues; his self-effacing humility isn't an act. He doesn't feel that he's Good Enough yet to earn the kind of attention he gets as a bronzerider. He has a very slow-burning but bad temper; anyone who messes with his friends is liable to find themselves with his fist in their face without any warning. (He rarely gets into fights now, as he has his dragon to think about, but it still happens on rare occasion.) And he's a bit of a pickpocket (he always gives back what he nicks, though). And a klah addict. And he cheats at dice.

Rider's History:
Zhahaq was born at his family's tiny seacot in Rubicon Hold territory, somewhere in the middle of 11 kids. His father, a merchant seaman and captain of the ocean-going schooner Windrace, brought the boy on ship early and taught him the ways of the sea, though he never actually sent him out for "official" crafting -- he didn't want to wait for the formal training process, and he figured he'd do just as good a job himself. Zhahaq grew up on deck and in the rigging, learning the ropes as it were from the rest of the crew of the Windrace; not only seamanship, but gambling, pickpocketing, knife-fighting and low-level piracy (Da had a "supplemental income" as a smuggler).

It was while the Windrace was docked at Rivercrest Hold on the Western Continent during a supply stopover that a dragonrider from Western Weyr came through. Caught up in the excitement of seeing his first dragon up close, the young teen was very surprised to find himself Searched. Da wasn't pleased by this -- he hated the idea of losing a good hand -- and Zhahaq himself was a little reluctant to go to the Weyr at first. In the end, though, both he and his father agreed that there was more of a future for him with the Weyr than there was aboard the Windrace (one of his older brothers was slated to inherit the ship upon his father's death, and Zhahaq would have likely ended up just a deckhand for the rest of his life). He Impressed bronze Eorawth at his second time on the sands at age 16, again much to his surprise.

Z'haq and Eorawth have proven themselves to be skilled and gifted wingriders, a bit daredevil-ish at times, but always there and ready to help their fellow riders and dragons out.

Where did your rider Impress from? Western Weyr

How long has he been stationed at Western Weyr? 13 years

How do they feel about Thread's return? Angered. This wasn't supposed to happen. His father's ship was sunk in the sea off Telgar and his family's little seacot was destroyed, so it's personal with Z'haq. You don't mess with family, not even if you're Thread.

How do they feel about their current Weyr? Z'haq loves life at Western Weyr. It's surprisingly similar to life aboard his father's ship, where everyone had the same mission and worked together in a tight-knit team. The progressive attitude at Western suits him well; there's a good amount of structure -- everyone pretty much knows where they fit at the Weyr -- but change is permitted. He couldn't see himself at a more rigidly-run Weyr like High Reaches at all.

Why do they want to be a Wingleader, ICly? Apart from having a thorough understanding of Thread fighting, Z'haq has a lot of what he feels are new and innovative ideas that he would like to try as leader of a fighting Wing. His skills with people, his natural leadership ability and understanding of team dynamics are qualities he feels can best be used as a Wingleader. It's not unlike being captain of a ship, something he wanted to be before he was Searched.

Why do you (OOCly) think they'd be a good fit? I think Z'haq would be a fun Wingleader! He'll welcome new ideas, party with his wingmates, and generally be one of those leaders whom everyone adores. He basically learned leadership at his ship captain father's side, and he'll carry that through into the Wing; he'll run the Wing like a sailing vessel, where everyone knows their job and works together like a well-oiled machine.

Do you have any plans or ideas on what you'd do with one of the Wings if given one? OOCly I'd like to run Wing RPs for drills and meetings and such, beach parties, and general antics and hijinks, as well as contests for dragon-riding games. ICly Z'haq will try to test some of his Thread fighting ideas, as well as run a fairly loose "ship" as far as his Wing goes. There are rules to be followed, of course, and everyone in the wing has a job to do, but downtime is party time! Do your chores, then celebrate that you're still alive!

Rider's Name: P'kav (previously: Parrakav)
Rider's Age: 36
Dragon's Name: Dharmath
Dragon's Age: 21
Dragon Color: bronze
Which Weyr are they Stationed at? Western Weyr
Are they an approved PC or someone made specifically for the contest? specifically made
---->If made for the contest, are you going for a semi-custom color or a pre-made bronze? pre-made bronze
--->If pre-made bronze, what's your preference? bronze-ro-001-800-Tarazet, Bronze03Real (MH), Bronze02Real (MH), Bronze06 (MH), Bronze04 (MH), Bronze05 (MH)
--->If semi-custom, list a color (white, green, blue, or brown) and inspiration image or palette? N/A

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Rider's Personality: P’kav is magnanimous in both thought and actions. He forgives easily, is not vindictive, and will give that which he has away to help another even if it puts him in a difficult position. There is an idealism about P’kav that has gotten him labeled a romantic on more than one occasion. Combine with that idealism is a desire for adventure and to learn. P’kav has never denied that he is a romantic for he would not lie to others.

He is steadfast in his beliefs and when he decides on a course of action he remains firm. His strong-will helps with that determination and steadiness, though he can become stubborn as a result. He can be reasoned with, though it would take a patient and knowledgable person and a lot of time. But P’kav himself is impatient and does not do well with delay. He doesn’t like like to be kept waiting and when he wants something done, he expects it to be done. Along with that is the fact that P’kav is demanding of people, expecting them to always be striving to better themselves and try their best. He doesn’t understand why people would not want to improve.

But he is protective of people, even those that he is impatient with and confused by. If someone that he was not on good terms with was threatened, he would still help. That protectiveness leads to meddling in people’s affairs. For their own good of course, or so he tells himself. Some of it stems from the protective urges and the impatience to get things done and resolved. But some of it is just the desire to be in the middle of things and have a hand in the outcomes.

Rider's History: P'kav was born into a small cothold near High Reaches up in the mountains. The cothold was equalitarian as there were really not enough people there to warrant a hierarchy. There was a Lord Holder of course, but really he was just the man who lived next door and had three more herd beasts. There wasn’t much there, and by the time he was eleven P'kav knew what the rest of his life would be like. Tending herd beasts and crops. Helping around the place and generally doing boring things. This did not please him at all. With two older brothers, and a younger sister, P'kav had a loving family and was raised with strong values and a good work ethic. But he was bored. He knew there had to be something greater out there for him if he could only get to it.

By the age of fourteen P'kav was beginning to despair a little about finding a way to make his life exciting and an adventure instead of monotony. They weren’t rich enough to send him to a craft hall. They couldn’t even spare the expense of getting there. And he we neither interested in being a mercenary nor a caravaner. But that didn’t leave many options for P'kav. However he was determined to find a way to obtain his goal, if only he could be clear on what his goal was.

It all became clear, all the pieces of the vision falling into place, when High Reaches Weyr ordered some herd beasts be delivered for a feast. P'kav was the one chosen to bring them to the Weyr. The trip itself was uneventful, and upon arrival he was promptly dismissed and ignored. This might have annoyed someone else, P'kav took it in stride. He hung around for a bit, hoping to catch sight of a dragon or two. He had heard tales, and yet had never seen a real one. There was no reason for a dragon rider to come to where he lived. Well, lurking in the shadows resulted in the most interesting thing, though at first when the rider clapped a hand on his shoulder, P'kav was certain he was in trouble. Yet, he wasn’t. Instead the rider’s dragon had decided that he, P'kav, should stay and be a candidate. P'kav had no idea how that worked, but he wasn’t going to argue with the opportunity he had so desired and never dared dream of.

It was not easy being a candidate from the middle of nowhere and having no real education. There was a lot that he had to learn very quickly, from reading and writing, to politics, status, and prejudices. No one thought that he would amount to much as “soft-hearted” as they perceived him to be. So when he impressed the only bronze in a clutch less than one year later, there was some anger among the other candidates.

P'kav quickly learned how the other side was treated though as he was pampered and given privilege. And he hated it. It made no sense to him. He was no different from the other weyrlings, and his dragon agreed that this was not right. Dharmath was a contemplative dragon that believed that one is all, and all is one. That we are all in this life together and should help each other. Dharmath also was prone to giving speeches to his fellow dragons, exciting them and motivating them, as well as always challenging his clutch mates and rider to forever be better than the day before.

It was a match that worked, maybe too well. By the time they graduated, the pair had a plan. The plan was to revolutionize the Weyr into a place that all could be valued for their merit and no one would be looked down for arbitrary standards. P'kav and Dharmath were humored for a few years, until it became clear that they weren’t going to toe the line and might actually be convincing some of the others to join the cause. They were quickly shipped of to Western Weyr with the explanation that it would be a better fit for all and that they would be happier there.

It was a bit of a culture shock for P'kav, and not entirely in a good way. He had grown used to the privilege that his dragon’s hide color gave him at High Reaches, and it shamed him to realize this. Also with the transfer he lost his purpose, the thing that had been driving him for the last few years. P'kav floundered for a bit at Western not sure what he wanted to do. He could try and change this Weyr to be even more equal, but he also didn't want to be pushed out of another Weyr. P'kav was not interested in ending up being transferred between Weyrs all over the place. He became restless though without the driving need to occupy him.

P’kav decided to travel some and get an idea of what the rest of the world was like. He didn’t go for long stretches of time, just enough to get an idea of a place and then returned to the Weyr. Somewhere along the way, P’kav took up painting and became to document his travels that way. He had always been one to sketch things growing up and when on a whim he bought a set of paints, he realized how much he had missed it.

Through out the years, P’kav did what any intelligent person would do. He studied people, learned about what made people who they were, contemplated civilization and the human need for power, made friends, enemies, and lovers. Never found his love though. He traveled and documented, continued to train and keep himself and Dharmath in shape mostly through aerial acrobatics. Taught children to think for themselves, and basically lived the life he wanted to. It helped that he always had a home to go back to, something he didn’t really think about until Thread fell.

When Thread returned, he was not at the Weyr but quickly returned to do what he could to help. When people started talking about how to handle the returned threat, and it was suggested that High Reaches had been right all along, P’kav was one of the voices that spoke up against that idea. The only way to structure the culture was not that of High Reaches. He had learned over time that it worked for some, but humans were not a ‘one answer for all sort’ of creature. P’kav was determined to protect the Western way of life while still protecting the world. To do that, it meant giving up his roaming and that was perfectly fine with him.


Where did your rider Impress from? High Reaches Weyr

How long as he been stationed at High Reaches or Western Weyr? Western: 17 years

How do they feel about Thread's return? Not pleased. Worried and determined to provide all the protection to those that cannot protect themselves.

How do they feel about their current Weyr? P'kav appreciates the political climate as close to the ideals he holds, however he is worried about the lax nature of the training.

Why do they want to be a Wingleader, ICly? For a long time, he didn’t. But with Thread’s return, P'kav believes that he must. He believes he has the knowledge still to help train the riders, to motivate and drive them on when the weariness sets in, and to provide stability in an uncertain time. To be the mentor to those around him that he always wanted. And to make sure that Western stays Western.

Why do you (OOCly) think they'd be a good fit? P’kav has the drive to help a Wing flourish and the training to do so. He also cares about each person as an individual and will be someone for the wing riders to come to with issues and to count on to do what is right. This may mean disciplining them at times and that would tear him up inside, but he would do what is needed. He is not perfect by any means and any rider under his guidance should be alert to his meddling, but he is not vindictive or cruel.

Do you have any plans or ideas on what you'd do with one of the Wings if given one? IC: To train them, drive them hard and push them to the edges of what they believe possible and then beyond that. To give them stability and a cohesive unit to be a part of.

OOC: Periodic meetings, group roleplays, drills, mock thread games, meddling…

Rider's Name: Ash'il (previously Ashphil)
Rider's Age: 28
Dragon's Name: Iptoneth
Dragon's Age: Nine turns
Dragon Color: Bronze
Which Weyr are they Stationed at? High Reaches Weyr
Are they an approved PC or someone made specifically for the contest? Quest idea/for the contest
---->If made for the contest, are you going for a semi-custom color or a pre-made bronze? Pre-made Bronze
--->If pre-made bronze, what's your preference? MH #3, Andranis #2, MH #2, Tanakako, Andranis #1, MH #1, Tarazet
--->If semi-custom, list a color (white, green, blue, or brown) and inspiration image or palette? N/A

~ ~ ~ ~

Rider's Personality: Ash'il is known for being protective, whether it is his family or someone who needs help. He may be the younger of the twins by a few moments, but he had always been the one to look after Ashlyn and their siblings. He has always seen it as his duty to keep his family safe, making sure no harm comes to them. This protection extends to the members of High Reaches Weyr, wanting to make sure everyone and everything in it are doing fine. If he sees someone being picked on, he will jump in and get the bullies to back down. When a fire breaks out, he will help to put it out as quickly as it can, to keep homes and people safe. Of course, sometimes it can lead to him being overzealous in being the hero, offering protection where it is not needed. Like if he thinks one of his sisters are in danger, causing him to rush in and find they have it handled. Or see someone supposedly in trouble, but it is really just some boys rough housing outside. It also leads to him putting himself in danger sometimes without a care for his own safety. He could get trampled when trying to stop an angry dragon or get punched when dealing with bullies. Luckily, he has his family and Iptoneth to remind him to be careful and to take care of himself. If he doesn't, they have no trouble stepping in to rein him in.

The young man is also a hard-worker, putting everything he has into whatever he is doing. He doesn't mind getting dirty, such as if he needs to move boulders that may be pinning people to the ground or when cleaning his faithful dragon. Ash'il will get up bright and early to get in extra training, if there is a move that is causing them trouble or if he wants to make sure things are perfect. He knows that everything he wants, he has to work for and he has no trouble doing that. Even if he is a bronze rider, he wants to be seen as someone who will go above and beyond the call of duty. If it means putting in extra hours or lead by example, then that is what he is going to do. Granted, this leads to him overextending himself and overworking. Sometimes he will want to help out a friend who needs an extra pair of hands to plant a garden and help his wing with another drill, all in the same day. Not only that, he has gone a whole day without eating before, too busy to take the time to get a bite in. Or he has not gotten sleep one night, doing some extra training with Iptoneth. It takes those close to him to remind him that he needs to take time for himself. If he doesn't, then he can't help others as well as he wants to. His bronze has been known to drag him off to get some food, sleep, or fun.

Ash'il is known for being a very responsible fellow, making sure he is always on time and ready for whatever he is doing for the day. He carries a bag with him of any needed supplies, wanting to be prepared for anything that comes his way. Anytime his wing needs him, he is there to do his duty, from drills to a competition with another wing. If he does something wrong, he will admit to it and find some way to make up for it. If Iptoneth messes up, then he will take responsibility and fix anything that might have been broken. If there are people who look up to him, he makes sure he gives a good example of a respected person. Unfortunately, this leads to him being very hard on himself if he fails to do something wrong or something happens to someone when he is around. He will pour himself into training to try and get better and make up for what he sees as his 'failure,' even if it wasn't his fault. Or he will mentally beat himself up if someone gets hurt and he couldn't prevent it. Iptoneth and his family have been working with him to get him to let it go when things happen. Iptoneth makes sure he doesn't dwell on the guilt, knowing he can't prevent everything. Sometimes the bronze will show his rider all the good he has done and remind him that no one is perfect.

Rider's History: Ashphil was born a few minutes after his twin sister, Ashlyn, to two prominent riders of High Reaches Weyr. Unlike other weyrbrats, he and his siblings were raised by their family, instead of being put in the creche. Like his siblings, he was used to one parent watching over them when the other was away. In the event that both of them were busy, they would have other family members or friends of the family to watch over them. When he and his twin were old enough, they would even look after their younger siblings themselves. However, the boy found a calling for helping to talk for others as a diplomat. So when he turned eight, he began his studies in the courtesan craft, working hard to learn everything he could for the next six turns.

As soon as he turned fourteen, he turned his sights on becoming a candidate. He had the same hope of being a rider as his sister, though he was prepared if he aged out. Unlike his sister, he did not let every hatching that he did not impress get to him, believing he would impress one day. He would help give her strength, letting her know that their parents were right, that they would have their day in the sun. If it didn't, then they both had noble crafts to fall back on, unlike some of their fellow candidates. Yes, it did hurt a little when he didn't impress those first years of being a candidate, but it just fueled his determination to keep trying. He didn't know what kind of dragon would be his bonded, but he knew it would be one he would love with every fiber of his being. In the meantime, he put his all in his candidate studies and his craft, when he had time for the latter.

The twins had recently turned nineteen turns, when their day finally came. Ashphil was watching as each of the hatchlings popped out of their eggs. He watched as one of the blues wondered over to his sister and impressed to her. A smile had come to his face, he had noticed it was one who had protected a sibling, making him know Ashlyn had a noble blue. His joy didn't last long when he noticed that one of his fellow candidates were about to be mauled by one of the new babies. He dashed over and protected her, ready to take the attack on himself. Luckily, a bronze hatchling jumped in and convinced his sibling that it was not worth it and the boy was under his protection. Ashphil was surprised as the offender backed down and the bronze spoke in his mind, before the dragnet's eyes burst into the rainbow of impression. From that moment, Ash'il would be on the path to being a dragon rider.

The next turn found the new bonded pair throwing themselves into Weyrling training, learning everything they could about each other and their fellow Weyrlings. Once their training was done, they were assigned to one of the Wings, where they helped in every way they could. They memorized every member of their Wings and as much information as they received about them. It helped that Ash'il's twin became an assistant to the Weyrlingmaster, so they could share information they each learned. Like his twin, Ash'il made a point of knowing all the riders and future riders on sight and anything he could on what they were like. He used his studies as a diplomat to help mediate situations or recommend any courses of actions to make their Weyr more effective. He took his role as a bronze rider seriously, focusing on being the best leader that he could. When Thread came back he was ready and determined to keep those he cared about safe.

Where did your rider Impress from? High Reaches Weyr

How long as he been stationed at High Reaches or Western Weyr? Ash'il was born in High Reaches Weyr and has been stationed as a rider here for all nine years since he impressed.

How do they feel about Thread's return? Ash'il and Iptoneth both suspected that it would return one day, much like the rest of their Weyr. They are not happy about being right, cause they know how much suffering Thread brings with it. However, they will do everything in their power to fight it and minimize the damage it does to their Weyr.

How do they feel about their current Weyr? They do think there are people that have earned higher positions than they have, but they respect the rules of the Weyr. They hope one day things will change slightly, but until that day comes, they will abide by the rules in place. After all, if they didn't have rules, then Thread would eat them alive. Though they do not necessarily agree with all the rules, they love their Weyr and will defend it with everything they have. They have great respect for their leaders, knowing it is because of them that they were prepared when Thread returned.

Why do they want to be a Wingleader, ICly? Ash'il knows how important Wingleaders are to the Weyr, knowing they are responsible for keeping the riders ready for fighting Thread. He wants to help in leading his fellow riders into battle, protecting everyone they care about. Iptoneth thinks that his rider has earned the chance to be a strong leader and be the guiding hand of a Wing. Plus, Ash'il is a bronze rider, it is the right thing to do, least in the opinion of the pair. They want to be able to make a difference and this seems like the next logical step in doing so.

Why do you (OOCly) think they'd be a good fit? I feel Ash'il will do everything in his power to keep his riders safe, wanting to minimize the loss of lives, if he can help it. He also knows all of the members of the Weyr, at least what they look like, and some even more than that. He would throw his all in getting to know the riders under him, making sure he knows all of their strengths and weaknesses. He would make sure they are ready and make sure they can protect the Weyr with everything they can. His protective instincts will allow for him to get out there and lead by example and his dragon will rein him in, to keep him from overdoing it. He is also willing to put in whatever work he needs to in getting his Weyr ready and listen to his supervisors. He also knows how to make decisions in the heat of battle, if he sees something is not working. He grew up in the Weyr and has learned a lot about the way it works and its people. Also, being trained as a diplomat, he knows how to talk in a way to get his words heard.

Do you have any plans or ideas on what you'd do with one of the Wings if given one? If given a Wing, the first thing I would do is have him figure out who he would like to have as his Wing Second. I would do that by RPing with any bronze or brown riders who want the position, having Ash'il interview them and learn about them. Then he would decide who would be his Second, before beginning to conduct drills and Sweeps with his Wing. He would even encourage some competition with the other two Wings, so that they could sharpen their skills. I would like to have him keep in touch with his Wing, RPing interactions whenever I can. I would also like to RP meetings once in awhile with the Weyrleader and Flight Leader, so they can be on the same page.

Hey guys!!

Well, you guys didn't make this easy. In fact, I had to read and re-read entries before making a final list. I am sorry that all of you couldn't be winners, and I hope you don't give up hope! Part of the consideration was the character itself, and whether or not I thought it might make sense for the Weyrleaders (or the Council) to tap them into a position.

That said, I also wanted to try to reward our wonderful player base with some fun IC opportunities.

For those who tried out and did not win please don't despair! There will be future Wingleader contests, and other contests for some higher ranking positions in the the shop as we go along. Furthermore, I can always make more Wings to fill, so stick around, and I promise there'll be more opportunities.

That said, please congratulate Echoes of Pern newest Wingleaders!
High Reaches Alpha Flight
DaisyMilk - A'gus - HR - Tarazet's Bronze // Burning Aces Wing
Fated Fable - Z'tir - HR - MH5 Bronze // Harbingers Wing
Teiha - K'ienn - HR - Trespassers Wing

Western Weyr's Heart's Fire Flight
Kyrieko - V'lik - W - Semi-Custom Blue // Star Flame Wing
L'fer - DruidTigress - W - Semi-Custom Green // Fire Storm Wing
tatterpixie - Z'haq - W - MH1 Bronze // Flame's Fury Wing

But wait, there's more! Given how awesome everyone is, and how many entries we enjoyed, we decided to open up the NPC Wings and will make the PC! If you're okay with being assigned one of these new PC Wings, just know that you'll have NPC riders for a little bit while I try to fill them up! I'll aim on trying to focus on giving the barren NPC Wings some riders, but it might take a little bit of time!

If you're worried about not having activity for your Wingleader, feel free to just RP 'em with others in the Weyr. I understand these wings have no riders in 'em yet, but we'll work on filling them up fast as we can!

The winners of our newest PC Wings are the following!
Nature's Fury Flight
BastetAmun - A'dras - HR - Hurricane Wing
Waiver - G'er - HR - MH2 // Tsunami Wing
Nilah44 - V'kenti - HR - Tornado Wing

Satellite Flight
demon_pachabel - T'mor - W - Yokohama Wing
-_Wish of Teverae_- - H'ral - W - MH3 // Bahrain Wing
faesinger - P'kav - W - MH6 // Buenos Aires Wing

Thanks for participating!

Once again, we'll likely be looking at Wingleader Tryouts again sometime next year, or if a spot opens up ICly for whatever reason. If you want to keep your Wingleader position, you must be active with your Wingleader ICly. We'll be taking a look to see who has kept their wing alive and is being an active and available leader.

We'll inform you next year whether or not your position is secure for another year, or if you'll have to try-out again and/or may potentially be replaced.

If you are interested in dragons for a Wingsecond Contest, PM me! We don't really have too many dragons readily available so will need to color some up. Otherwise, you may pick someone in your wing and see if they would like their character to be Wingsecond.

Try to share the love, if possible. I believe every Wing is allowed up to two Wingseconds, so we'd certainly love if it wasn't just the same individuals getting the spots! Depending how this goes we may not keep the same format next year.

Have fun and good luck!

The bronzes that did not get homed today will be given away as wingriders or put up for adoption. Stay tuned!

DaisyMilk

Congratulations! A'gus and bronze Xibalbuth are now the Wingleader's of the Burning Aces!

Fated Fable

Congratulations! Z'tir and bronze Siloth are now the Wingleader's of the Harbingers!

Teiha

Congratulations! K'ienn and bronze Yisketh are now the Wingleader's of the Trespassers!

Kyrieko

Congratulations! V'lik and blue Raith are now the Wingleader's of Star Flame!
[Please allow some time for us to design your blue! But you can go ahead and make them a character sheet!]

DruidTigress

Congratulations! L'fer and green Morpeth are now the Wingleader's of Fire Storm!
[Please allow some time for us to design your green! But you can go ahead and make them a character sheet!]

tatterpixie

Congratulations! Z'haq and bronze Eorawth are now the Wingleader's of Flame's Fury Wing!

BastetAmun

Congratulations! A'dras and bronze Gareth are now the Wingleader's of Hurricane Wing!

Waiver

Congratulations! G'er and bronze Ironith are now Wingleader's of Tsunami Wing!

Nilah44

Congratulations! V'kenti and bronze Takarath are now Wingleader's of Tornado Wing!

demon_pachabel

Congratulations! T'mor and brown Phylideth are now Wingleader's of Yokohama Wing!

-_Wish of Tevarae_-

Congratulations! H'ral and bronze Sigurath are now Wingleader's of Bahrain Wing!

faesinger

Congratulations! P'kav and bronze Dharmath are now Wingleader's of Buenos Aires Wing!