Welcome to Echoes of Pern Wingleader Contest! This contest will allow players to obtain some ranking personas for High Reaches Weyr and Western Weyr. Players will be able to create new characters using premade art, create new characters in need of semi-custom art, or put forward their own characters in hopes that they will be tapped into a Wingleader position.
Any premade dragons that are not homed during this contest will be either added into future games as prizes, or given out in other means. They will not be Wingleaders, though -- just regular wingriders for the Weyrs.
This contest will be judged. It is prompt based, and there is a good possibility some wings may retain an NPC Wingleader. If that happens, MH will likely play them, until enough time passes and we run another Wingleader Contest. We would ideally prefer all Wings have PC players, but understand we may not have enough interest to cover six Wings.
Begins: Now! Ends: Sunday September 3rd @ 9pm ET
Still interested? Keep reading for more information!
Posted: Tue Aug 08, 2017 11:41 am
Wingleaders -- The Good, The Bad, The Ugly
What's a Wingleader? Wingleaders are dragonriders associated with one of the Weyrs on Pern. These riders are hand-picked by the current Weyrleader, and are given responsibility for an assigned Wing. Wings consist of something between thirty and sixty riders, depending on the health and size of the Weyr. There is always at least one Wingsecond, but often times two or three, depending on the size and needs of the Wing.
Wingleaders work with an assigned Flightleader, and beneath the Weyrleader, to ensure that their Wings are ready to fight Thread efficiently, knowledgeably, and with minimal casualties.
When a wingrider gets in trouble it is up to their Wingleader to admonish and keep them in line. Should a Wingleader fail to keep his wing in line, or trouble is bad enough to reach the Weyrleader's desk, then the Wingleader will be held accountable. Undisciplined Wingleaders can and will be demoted, so those who are interested in this role will find themselves in need of responsibility.
Wingleaders are an important role. Wingleaders know their riders inside and out; they ideally should know what their individual strengths and weaknesses are, as well as what the Wings strengths and weaknesses are -- on land and in air. They assign their riders to daily sweeps and often choose daily drills to focus upon. They meet with the Weyrleader, Weyrleader Second, and Flightleaders regularly (sometimes together, sometimes individually) to discuss upcoming Thread, and tactics needed to best fight it.
Wingleaders put their riders lives in their hands every Threadfall. An inept Wingleader could prove devestating to a Wing and a Flight. One bad call cold put the entire Wing at risk. Choosing the wrong formation when the weather unexpectedly changes, or not listening to a riders needs, could be fatal, so it is very important a Weyrleader choose competent Wingleaders.
Wingleaders get to choose their Wingseconds, who the work with to help keep order, or to run things while the Wingleader is away.
So what does this mean...? By trying out for this contest it means your character will be given one of the PC Wings for either High Reaches Weyr or Western Weyr for at least 1 year! While this is not a RP Required position, it is hoped that Wingleaders will be active and engage with the RPers in the shop and their Wing.
You will be allowed to make Wing Meetings, Wingdrills, etc. The Weyrleader, Weyrleader Second, or Flightleader might call on your character for a group or one-on-one style meeting. It is a position of honor ICly and your characters will be given a pay raise, new shoulder knots, and any amenities and benefits that come with the rank. This usually means a substantially larger weyr, their own private bathing quarters, their own offices close to conference rooms, are some of the first weyrs to be cleaned/have laundry cleaned/returned, etc.
For Wingleaders that are actively being RPed and used in the shop, we'll let you keep the role longer than a year! There is no minimum requirement, but we would prefer some activity for shop and customer plot and RP purposes. For Wingleaders that aren't RPed or whose owners go inactive, the shop has a right to ICly demote them back to wingrider or move them to an NPC wing.
We do this because there may be metaplots and shop actions that involve individual wings. It is never fun to be a wingrider in a Wing where there is no active leadership. So, after we choose winners, we will check in on the wings after a year to see if we need to switch things up or if the Wingleader looks like they're still doing their duty.
ICly, leadership can change whenever the Weyrleader decides to do so. Nothing is ever secure, so it wouldn't necessarily be a huge shock if we need to change things up next year. OOCly we also want to make sure other people are given an opportunity to play/write Wingleaders, especially if a person isn't around to use them.
What do I get to do if I win one? If you win a Wingleader role, your character is granted all the immediate IC benefits that come along with the rank. OOCly, you are allowed to run Wing Events, Wing Drills, Wing Games, Wing Competitions with other Wings, etc. You ultimately can kind of run the Wing however you'd like... Short of doing something that's against the shop's rules, or starts mucking up our plots, you're in the driver seat. Your character can reprimand unruly wingriders, can take concerns up with the Weyrleader or Flightleader, can be as lenient or as strict as you think the Wing should be run, and can plot out duties for the Wing to fulfill. Should you have wingriders that get in trouble or cause trouble, it will likely come back to your Wingleader who can choose a proper punishment. If it's bad enough, the Weyrleadership may need to go to your Wingleader for double admonishment, etc. Obviously, if your Wingleader has a problem with how things are going, then you can take it up with Weyrleadership.
If Wingriders have problems, then they have to go to their Wingleaders to resolve it, especially if it's something they can't resolve themselves.
Wingleaders also tend to have a lot more responsibility and work than Wingriders, so their schedules, and routines will definitely change. There are a lot of meetings, a lot of research, a lot of crap that happens, so your characters lives might well change.
While the position and role and running of the individual Wings are ultimately up to the Wingleader, if you go crazy, get out of hand, or suddenly start trying to spout anarchy and chaos, ICly and OOCly we may have to remove your character from the position even if the year is up. IC Action = IC Consequence, so obviously causing IC trouble "for OOC fun" could result in both IC and OOC consequence. Neither High Reaches Weyr nor Western Weyr is going to d**k around when riders lives are on the line.
But this doesn't mean you guys can't have fun with those assigned to your wings. You can do Wing Specific group RPs, or individual RPs.
Furthermore, Wingleaders get to choose their own Wingseconds. How you do this is up to you -- you can open a contest, pick them from those interested in the Wing, or talk to MH about maybe making some dragons to contest off yourself. Just keep in mind if your Wingleader gets demoted, whoever takes their place could replace the Wingseconds as well.
This role isn't meant to be a pressured role, as activity is encouraged but optional. But we do want to be honest about what we'll be hopeful for. If you have no interest in the position or your character taking on its responsibilities, then if you win, your Wingleader could get demoted and replaced next year.
Weyr Specific Rules As Western Weyr and High Reaches Weyr are quite different, they have strict rules on who will be allowed to become Wingleaders or Wingseconds.
High Reacches Weyr 1. Wingleaders will always be bronzeriders. Period. 2. Wingleader Seconds will only be bronze or brownriders, no matter what. Blue or greenriders would not be approved and would likely get the Wingleader demoted immediately. 3. This position is highly coveted, short of Flightleader or Weyrleader. It is often that Wingleaders tend to be in a better position to become Weyrleader down the road. There is a bit of fame that goes with the position at High Reaches Weyr. They're almost a bit like rockstars and often treated reverently. 4. Wingleaders get larger quarters, fresh fruit sent to their weyrs everyday, their own private bathing chambers, their own offices, and are treated akin to Master Craftsmen. They might have more sway, and their thoughts and opinions might well be considered by D'mon. 5. Wingleaders are handpicked by Weyrleader D'mon... and demoted entirely by him, too. Staying in his good graces is a wise idea if you wan to continue being a Wingleader.
Western Weyr 1. Wingleaders can be of any color provided they show gumption and initiative to want to lead. 2. Wingleader Seconds can be of any color provided they want to lead. 3. It is an honored position in Western, though they might not be as revered as in High Reaches Weyr. They're important, respected, admired, but there isn't any more fanfare than anyone else usually. 4. Wingleaders can stay in their own weyr or move to one closer to the kitchens/offices of the Weyr. It's a bit larger and cushier, but it's not expected of them. They'll work closely with R'mor. 5. Wingleaders are suggested by R'mor, but ultimately voted in by a council. This means the Weyrleader can't just pick willy-nilly or punish a competent and desired leader just because they don't like them. Wingleaders chosen by Western are there because the Weyr as a whole thinks them a good fit.
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Posted: Tue Aug 08, 2017 7:40 pm
How to Enter
There are three ways which you can enter for a possible Wingleader! Please keep in mind your riders must be from either Western or High Reaches Weyr! It wouldn't make sense for D'mon or R'mor to choose an unaffiliated rider.
Submit a Pre-Existing Character / Transfer Character The first way is to use one of your pre-existing characters. Fill out the entry and prompt from your characters point of view and wait to see if they're promoted. There is no age minimum, but your character will have to be quite impressive if they're young or just out from weyrling training. Remember, if you're trying for HRW you'll need a bronze rider. If you're trying for Western any non-gold color will work. We will allow for transfers to enter, whether or not their profile is finished.
Submit a New Character with Pre-existing Art The second way is to fill out the entry form with a brand new character, and choose one of the bronzes from the pool. If you're trying out for High Reaches Weyr you'll have to make the Wingleader a bronzerider -- I'm sorry, but D'mon is set in his ways. If you're trying for Western you can choose either bronze. There is a preference list, so post your dragon color preferences and if you win we'll match you with one of the dragons on your preference list. Please keep in mind you may not get your first choice -- it will depend on who else wins and what they desire.
Submit a New Character with Colorist Choice Art The third way to potentially win is to fill out the entry form with a brand new character, and ask for a CC'd dragon. You will choose either a bronze for HRW or a non-gold color for Western. All you will get to choose is the dragon's color - the pattern is entirely up to colorists, so there's no guarantee on what we'll design you. We may ask for design inspiration but there's no guarantee what you'll get.
You may enter as many characters as you'd like, in either Weyr, but will likely only get one promoted. Unless we have a shortage and are desperate to fill slots, we will make every attempt to grant one Wingleader per player for now.
Posted: Tue Aug 15, 2017 11:00 am
The Wings
We'll be choosing six Wingleaders, assuming we get six fitting entries. We do reserve the right to choose less then that, and will either make NPC Wingleaders, or try to fill the spot later. If we get more than six fitting entries, we might open up our NPC wings and make them PC wings! It all depends on who is interested!
Just because you enter doesn't mean a guaranteed win! The profile you write has to be a good fit, and make sense for D'mon or the Council to pick them! Keep that in mind when you're writing your entry, and should you win, when you choose Wingseconds.
High Reaches Weyr will be firm on its color bias. We've got Western Weyr for all your "fight the color bias" needs. I apologize if this cramps your fun, but the heart of the Weyr isn't going to change overnight, and D'mon and Zheria aren't the sort to start changing their tune. They truly believe in the traditions of the Weyrs, and that means some riders just won't have the same opportunities for rising up in rank available to them.
Here are the PC Wings we're hoping to supply with a Wingleader! Please note that Masterharper will assign winners to the wings! Fated Fable is NOT going to help because they're interested in participating.
Western Weyr's Heart's Fire Flight In Western Weyr this particular Flight was name after fire. Those who came out to the West had to be passionate about such a move and such a change; not only was the Continent mostly unexplored, but the people and riders were essentially isolated. They were on their own. Some say the warm fires of the hearth inspired this Flight name, as fire can warm and comfort, even as it might burn, while others say it was inspired by the grit and spirit of local travelers. A few others still claim it was simply pulled from a hat. Honestly, Western Weyr might not entirely remember how the flight name came to be, but these days, with the need of dragonfire to fight the Great Enemy, it's a fitting name indeed.
It is common for the riders to call one another by a shortened Wing name, such as the "Furies" the "Blazers", etc.. Star Flame Wing
Fire Storm Wing
Flame's Fury Wing
Those in the Heart's Fire Flight work under K'tos and brown Minoth, who is their Flight Leader. He used to be the Wingleader of Fire Storm Wing before being promoted, and still joins the Wing to fight.
Weyrleader R'mor was once the Wingleader of Star Flame, and will still join the Wing to fight from time to time.
High Reaches Weyr's Alpha Flight In Echoes of Pern this Flight is historically the oldest Flight in High Reaches Weyr. Those who are put in this flight consider it a great honor, and Burning Aces Wing is the oldest Wing. It has survived centuries of changes, and was the first named Wing when High Reaches Weyr was formed. It's such an old Wing nobody even remembers what the name means or what a burning ace might be, but perhaps that's what makes it so unique. Oldtimers who came ahead made sure to bring the flight name with them.
Alpha Flight is a proud Flight, and is a big part of High Reaches Weyr history.
Burning Aces Wing
Trespassers Wing
Harbingers Wing
The Alpha Flight is led by Y'mar and bronze Worenth, the Weyrleader Second. He was once the Wingleader of the Harbingers Wing. D'mon was once the Wingleader of the Burning Aces. Both bronze riders periodically fight with their old wings.
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Posted: Tue Aug 15, 2017 2:11 pm
The Dragons
The below are sorted in order of colorist. These are all pre-made bronzes you can write profiles for the Wingleader's for in the contest! For those in Western who want another color to be Wingleader, you'll need to ask for a Semi-Custom, or put forward one of your Approved PC characters!
Any bronzes we don't home will be given away in another fashion, either on the Adoptables Page, or put in one of the other games. We'll see!
All these pre-mades are bronzes!
Masterharper Dragons
Andranis Dragons
Tanakako Dragon
Tarazet Dragon
Colorist Choice Semi-Customs If you have a dragon that requires non-bronze lineart, you'll need to get them as a Colorist Choice Semi-Custom. You pick the color, and maybe an inspiration image, and we'll do the rest if you win!
These can be White through Brown. Just keep in Mind that they'll have to be for Western Weyr only since High Reaches Weyr is quite particular about who it promotes.
Posted: Thu Aug 17, 2017 3:39 pm
The Form
If you're interested in trying out for a Wingleader, all you need to do is fill out this form! You may enter as many entries as you wish, but they must be for different characters, but chances are we'll only let you win one.
You may edit your entries until the contest closes.
You may not proxy for other people.
These roles are not RP required but we genuinely would prefer that those trying out try to give their Wings a little life.
If you want to keep your Wingleader in the position longer than a year, you'll need some activity with them under your belt.
While we plan on giving current Wingleaders at least a year-long position, keep in mind if your Wingleader does something majorly stupid ICly that would warrant being dismissed, then we can switch things up as needed. (Chances are the Wingleader would get spoken to or given ultimatums by the Weyrleadership, so you know, you're probably just fine with whatever plots or trouble you put them in.)
[center][size=28][b][color=olive]I'm Ready to Lead! Sign Me Up![/color][b][/size][/center] [b]Rider's Name:[/b] [b]Rider's Age:[/b] [b]Dragon's Name:[/b] [b]Dragon's Age:[/b] [b]Dragon Color:[/b] [b]Which Weyr are they Stationed at?[/b] Western Weyr, High Reaches Weyr [b]Are they an approved PC or someone made specifically for the contest?[/b] [b]---->If made for the contest, are you going for a semi-custom color or a pre-made bronze?[/b] [b]--->If pre-made bronze, what's your preference?[/b] Please list at least 6. [b]--->If semi-custom, list a color (white, green, blue, or brown) and inspiration image or palette?[/b]
~ ~ ~ ~
[b]Rider's Personality:[/b]
[b]Rider's History:[/b]
[b]Where did your rider Impress from?[/b]
[b]How long as he been stationed at High Reaches or Western Weyr?[/b] [Remember, they have to be in the Weyr to be considered for the job!]
[b]How do they feel about Thread's return?[/b]
[b]How do they feel about their current Weyr?[/b] i.e. do they love it, do they hate it, do they object to the local politics, etc.
[b]Why do they want to be a Wingleader, ICly?[/b]
[b]Why do you (OOCly) think they'd be a good fit?[/b]
[b]Do you have any plans or ideas on what you'd do with one of the Wings if given one?[/b] This can be OOC and IC.
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Posted: Fri Aug 18, 2017 8:10 pm
Open!
Posted: Fri Aug 18, 2017 9:28 pm
I'm Ready to Lead! Sign Me Up!
Rider's Name: A'dras Rider's Age: 44 Dragon's Name: Gareth Dragon's Age: 24 Dragon Color: Bronze Which Weyr are they Stationed at? High Reaches Weyr Are they an approved PC or someone made specifically for the contest? Approved PC ---->If made for the contest, are you going for a semi-custom color or a pre-made bronze? N/A --->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? N/A
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Rider's Personality: [+]Honorable: At a young age A’dras adopted his own code of honor that he follows to this day. He respects the elders without any question about what they may have done in their youth, respects those who earn it through their actions and those whose loyalty never wavers. Children, from birth to 12 turns, are innocent and cannot be held accountable for any of their actions upon the public sphere it is their parents who have failed. He will protect the innocents at any cost to himself. A’dras does not hold others accountable to his honor code but he will not get involved in things that go against it, unless of course his loyalty might be called into question.
[+]Loyal: As every soldier will tell you the men you fight alongside become your family, although A’dras does believe that, he is not loyal to each and every rouge. A’dras is hard to gain the loyalty of as he must feel like there is a reason if he must sacrifice himself for the other. A’dras can be considered a true soldier as the man or woman above him has his upmost respect and loyalty. They do not have to gain this as it is inherently given because A’dras believes that they are put there for a reason, they have already proven themselves. He is well aware that there will be times that his loyalty and honor will cause turmoil but when it comes to those he is loyal too he will not hesitate to do what he can to help them even if it might go against his honor code. Once you have gotten close enough for A’dras to feel loyalty to you this is never changed no matter what happens.
[+]Protective: A’dras is very protective when it comes to his son Caderyn. As Caderyn is the only son that A’dras has he tries to do what he can to help the boy. This does go into younger children that A’dras comes across even if they are not his own. Although he is not protective enough to put his life on the line for people he does not respect or that he feels have no right to be where they are.
[-]Overprotective: Because he is overprotective of Caderyn, A’dras has allowed his own life to change for protecting his son. A’dras has attacked men for saying horrible things about his son and he has even killed a man because of a threat. He doesn’t hesitate to take care of his son in ways that he can and doesn’t seem to care about the consequences to himself as long as Caderyn is still safe. It is one of the reasons, since the return of Thread, that A'dras has returned to a Weyr, after spending most of his time as a mercenary, he plans on watching over Caderyn.
[-]Proud: Like many men A’dras is a very proud individual. He does not take kindly to his honor being called into question, even if he has gone against his code. If someone calls him out, especially in front of others, A’dras will challenge them to a fight. When it comes to this A’dras prefers to fight either unarmed or using swords instead of fighting with dragons. There are times when, depending on how much he feels he has been slighted, that A’dras is not against killing the person he is fighting.
[-]Ruthless: As said before A’dras seems to go into a different mindset when he is fighting. There are even times at this point when A’dras is known to continue fighting and only stop when snapped out of it. When this happens A’dras becomes very sullen especially when he attacks or goes after innocents. He has started to feel a need to fight and slip into a ruthless and unfeeling sense of mind to do what he needs to. Being ruthless in battle is how A’dras has begun to cope with following the orders that his superiors give him when they might go against his honor code. A’dras is well aware that the more he allows himself to slip in and out of a ruthless mindset, the easier it will be for him to bring harm to those around him. He is still able to stop himself from reaching that point but as time goes on, there is no telling what may happen.
[-]Closed-Off: A’dras prefers to keep to himself a lot of the times but when he does talk he comes off as very sullen. He is not very happy go lucky because of a lot of the things he has been through and seen in his life. Cynical by nature because of this you can always count on A’dras to give you the honest details and not lie to make everything sound nicer. He isn’t normally seen with a smile on his face and it isn’t normal to see him sitting around chatting and just having fun. Most of his free time is either spent with his dragon Gareth or working out and training. Although A’dras does seem very unhappy he enjoys spending time with Gareth, working out, training and sending time with some of the younger weyrlings. He enjoys being around the children even if he is teaching them how to fight because it allows him to be near kids who remind him of his son
Rider's History: A’dras started life off as a weyr brat. He has no idea who his mother and father were, his real ones at least and he doesn’t care to find out either. When he was born he was given over to the crèche and then placed into the foster care. A’dras was a hard child to take care of and he gave his foster parents trouble as he acted out against everything they ever tried to tell him to do and every rule they tried to enforce.
It was during his childhood of causing trouble and just general anxiety to the adults who cared for him that A’dras noticed things a bit more clearly around himself. He wasn’t, and still isn’t, the sharpest crayon in the box but A’dras was able to notice if things could be worked into his favor or even into the favors of those he was closest too. He managed to get in good with another weyr brat named Gethin and the two of them formed their own group of friends who ran about terrorizing the weyr, like young boys do. Gethin and A’dras were quick friends and formidable enemies as Gethin was the brains and A’dras the brawn. The years went by and the boys stayed best friends and even went into candidacy together.
It took four years of failures to stand before Gethin finally impressed the blue dragon Mawrth. A’dras was very happy for his friend, now G’hin, for his success and was determined to continue trying and standing to impress a dragon of his own. A year went by with another failure and as the age of twenty one loomed a year away A’dras began to fret that he wasn’t worthy enough. G’hin tried to convince his friend that it would not be the end of the world if he did not impress and even tried to tell him that he would impress the next time he stood but the other boy was just speaking to help A’dras get over his feelings and pay more attention to everything he was accomplishing.
At twenty years old A’dras stood once more and this time he did manage to impress. The dragon that A’dras impressed was a bronze named Gareth. A’dras was amazed by this as it was said that a bronze or gold dragon was not easy to impress. As elated as A’dras was, G’hin was seething with jealousy. He felt as if he had been passed up by A’dras who had always been beneath him and it was at this time that their friendship was broken. G’hin watched as opportunity opened up to A’dras and as he began to grow closer to Branwyn.
A’dras had fallen in love when Branwyn during the stand when he had impressed Gareth. He approached her afterwards and the two became fast friends and even potential lovers. Even after Branwyn became pregnant by G’hin during a flight A’dras stayed beside her as a friend and lover resulting in their own child Caderyn five years later. A’dras was unable to stay and help with Caderyn as after Branwyn had given birth to him he was given to the crèche, although Branwyn did later return to raise her three boys. A’dras was slowly rising in the ranks of the dragonriders destined for bigger things until his life took a turn he did not ever expect.
Returning from travel A’dras stopped his son from beating up his half-brother and came face to face with his old friend G’hin. A’dras ignored the looks G’hin gave him as he took his son away and back to Branwyn. It was after this, when A’dras was about to leave that G’hin cornered him. An argument began as G’hin began to insult A’dras and Caderyn saying that the boy was exactly like his father and attacked first before talking. A’dras was fine when at first G’hin was just yelling at him but when G’hin had the nerve to call A’dras a dullard and a coward that was it. A’dras swung at G’hin catching the leaner man off guard and pushing him up against a wall. It was quick and A’dras still doesn’t remember every little detail, he doesn’t remember grabbing the blade from his waist or even slicing it through G’hins neck or stabbing him through the heart. What he does remember is hearing Branwyn cry out as he came to his senses. A’dras was horrified at what he had done and he knew there was no life for him anywhere that was lawful. He left Monaco Bay for the last time, he thought, and ran not knowing where he was going to go.
Gareth managed to talk A'dras into becoming a mercenary and roaming around Pern, seeing things he normally wouldn't have been able to see if he stayed at the Weyr. A'dras wasn't fond of the idea at first, especially since he wondered if he was even being hunted, and if he could return. It was his own fear that had prompted him to run.
A'dras kept in touch with Branwyn, though he worried about coming around Caderyn as much as he had before. It was during a visit to High Reaches Weyr, one of a few that Gareth talked him into taking, which may have been selfish in his own right as each visit coincided with Branwyn's green rising, that Thread fell again. Branwyn was called to duty and A'dras volunteered, seeing the fire that blazed in Gareth's eyes. A'dras has now stopped his wandering and joined High Reaches Weyr, ready to help combat Thread, while also keeping a protective eye out for Caderyn as he attempts to Impress.
Where did your rider Impress from? Monaco Bay Weyr
How long as he been stationed at High Reaches or Western Weyr? A year
How do they feel about Thread's return? Thread's return threatens the entire world, one of the reasons A'dras and Gareth returned to a weyr to help fight it. A'dras is determined to keep those of the weyr and the surrounding areas safe.
How do they feel about their current Weyr? High Reaches feels like a typical weyr to A'dras, something he wished Monaco had been. This was Branwyn's home weyr, so he doesn't chaff against the rules that are laid down. The hierarchy is viewed as it is needed to keep order.
Why do they want to be a Wingleader, ICly? A'dras has never had much of a drive to greatness, that's been Gareth, but with the return of thread, he feels like he needs to help work the others into shape to work harder. He knows he isn't the only one who can do this, but it's something he believes you can do well.
Why do you (OOCly) think they'd be a good fit? A'dras is an older man so he has experience under his belt. He is easy to get along with, as long as everything it working out fine, though he can easily turn into a drill sergeant if things aren't going the way he wants. He also likes to keep morale up high and doesn't hold himself above others.
Do you have any plans or ideas on what you'd do with one of the Wings if given one? Probably think of a fun Wing Drill game at first. The wing will probably spend a lot of time bonding with one another drinking after their drills or even after they've fought thread. If they loose anyone, will probably make a deal to honor them.
Rider's Name: A'gus Rider's Age: 23 Dragon's Name: Xibalbath Dragon's Age: 3 Dragon Color: Bronze Which Weyr are they Stationed at? High Reaches 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? Pre-made --->If pre-made bronze, what's your preference? Tarazet, Andranis 2, MH 2, MH 4, MH 6, MH 3 --->If semi-custom, list a color (white, green, blue, or brown) and inspiration image or palette? N/A
~ ~ ~ ~
Rider's Personality: A'gus is a supremely confident and charming young man. He's always ready with a roguish smile or open ear should anyone wish to talk. He was raised to be respectful of everyone. And if he finds someone so loathsome as to nto deserve respect, he is at least able to remain civil enough to assist them if they ask. So far as A'gus is concerned, men are brothers in arms, children and beasts are innocents who must be nurtured and protected and ladies are lovely, delicate flowers that must be treated with care at all times.
Sadly, there are times when that attitude leads to him happily jumping into bed with any and every female that wiggles her hips at him. He is borderline obsessed with sex and his own perceived romantic prowess. Essentially, if there is a person he finds even remotely attractive nearby he will go into flirting over-drive in his attempts to hook up. The only things that tend to keep in even slightly in check are when he has a delicate task to accomplish Xibalbath needing care or if he's in the middle of a Fall. And even then, that won't completely stop him trying to flirt.
All that saves A'gus from coming across as a hopeless Casanova is a healthy dose of common sense and caution. He will take the time to make sure of his facts before committing to to action. He will also not take silly risks in the name of showing off, or shaving time off from a chore. He would much rather not be the idiot who dances off into Fall armed with only a stick who says, "I'll be right back!"
Additionally, A'gus has absolutely no concept of when to not stick his nose into other people's affairs. It's not just that he will go up to someone asking what's wrong. It's that he won't leave them alone when they show an unwillingness to talk. Someone heard a loud argument in the Lower Caverns? A'gus will run right over, barge in and proceed to grill the participants and then try to con them into a group hug. Threats of extreme violence against his person won't even dissuade him for getting all up in someone's face. And if he becomes truly angry... A'gus doesn't often get angry or lose his temper. But when he does, it's best to just take cover and ride that cold wave out. When angry, he tends to not only go silent, but become so remote and cold that it's honestly a little scary because it is almost impossible to tell what's going through his mind. It's like being in a room with an ice statue that's radiating anger. Best to just let Xibalbath handle his weyrmate at that point.
Rider's History: Born to a pair of very minor holders within Benden, Aragus grew up in a loving and welcoming environment. His parents were dreadfully proud of their only son and were careful to give him the best education possible with an eye towards him eventually inheriting his father's hold. Aragus, however, was far more interested in playing soldier when he was small. When he was 13, he was fostered out to friends of his parents who held a Beasthold. It was during this time that he discovered Girls and all that saved him from disgrace was the knowledge that such behavior could harm his parents in some way. By 15, he was well acknowledged as a flirt.
Two turns later, thinking to use Aragus' proclivities to better their own standing, the Beastholder's sent him home with an offer to wed their daughter to him and thus bind two well-off families together. Had it not been for the dragons, this plan might have come to fruition. Benden seachriders claimed Aragus and took him to the Weyr.
Finding weyr life much more to his liking, Aragus settled into life at Benden as a candidate, though it would be another 3 turns before he would impress bronze Xibalbath. By that time, A'gus was irritated by life within Benden. He felt there was far more to life as a dragonrider than acting as a tour guide to curious wanderers who were enamored with Benden's history. And certainly more to life than coasting by simply by virtue of being a Bender dragonrider.
Growing more and more dissatisfied during his weyrling training with their weyr, A'guss and Xibalbath met riders from High Reaches during a Gather and found themselves impressed with that Weyr's discipline and insistence on tradition. Half a turn after graduating from training, the pair requested a transfer to High Reaches. Though Benden tried to talk him out of leaving for such a barren and dour place, the pair insisted and the request was granted.
Once installed within High Reaches, A'gus was quick to flirt with and bed a few pretty weyrgirls, but ultimately settled down, content with the disciplined way of life. As far as his young eyes could see, this was how dragonriders were supposed to behave. With dignity and a care for their duty. Though not easy to transition between two such wildly differeing weyrs, A'gus and Xibalbath managed. And when Thread returned, the pair were grateful to be in High Reaches. Though highly dismayed, the pair nevertheless rose to fight and found even more reason for gratitude as the training and discipline provided in High Reaches kept them alive and score free in that first, awful battle.
Where did your rider Impress from? Benden Weyr
How long as he been stationed at High Reaches or Western Weyr? 1 and a half Turns
How do they feel about Thread's return? Annoyed, betrayed by his ancestors, but relieved that High Reaches, at the least, was prepared. A'gus would have been happy to live in a world without Thread, but since he can't, he will fight it with every ounce of his being. Xibalbath, on the other hand, looks at the return of Thread as an affront and hates it passionately. How are he and his supposed to woo pretty ladies properly if they have to go out and fight thread every few days?
How do they feel about their current Weyr? A'gus can't say he loves the geographical placement of the High Reaches or the personalities of the Lord Holders bound to the Weyr, but he considers D'mon to be a strong Leader with a clear vision. At least High Reaches is a proper Weyr. Not like the rogues down in Western or the idiot idealists at Benden. Frankly, a little little physical hardships is a small price to pay. Xibalbath loves High Reaches. There are wise dragons to confer with, many interesting things to see and snow in the winters. Xibalbath is fascinated with snow.
Why do they want to be a Wingleader, ICly? A'gus would be lying if he didn't admit that part of the appeal is in the additional perks that a Wingleader recieves. But there's also the fact that he and Xibalbath are young, strong and have a big desire to prove themselves. D'mon won't last forever and when that sad days comes, A'gus has every intention of proving just how good he and his bronze are. And the best way to begin that journey is to become Wingleader.
Why do you (OOCly) think they'd be a good fit? A'gus's innate caution combined with his ambition has the potential to make him a very good leader. He is mindful of the Weyr traditions, believes in them and sees himself as The Future. Add in a genial charm that would allow anyone below A'gus to see him as both a leader and friend and he would have no problems rousing his wing to fight.
Do you have any plans or ideas on what you'd do with one of the Wings if given one? I haven't figured out the dice mechanics (if any are even needed), but some morale boosting games for the wing would be fun. Basically allowing fighting pairs to show off their strengths to build confidence. From there they could build to having a sort of demonstration at a Gather or other festival for the Weyrleaders, Lord Holders and Masters.
Posted: Sat Aug 19, 2017 7:07 am
I'm Ready to Lead! Sign Me Up!
Rider's Name: K’ienn Rider's Age: 36 Dragon's Name: Yisketh Dragon's Age: 21 Dragon Color: Bronze Which Weyr are they Stationed at? High Reaches Weyr Are they an approved PC or someone made specifically for the contest? Approved PC
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Rider's Personality:
K’ienn is a traditionalist through and through. He’s from a long line of bronzeriders and was born and raised at High Reaches. As a bronzerider for the last twenty turns, he sees himself as an authority in many things, including enforcement of what he sees as the correct way to do things at High Reaches. He’s not the most gentle at it, either. He’s been known to harass, coerce, and occasionally use force in his drive to serve the interests of High Reaches, though he’s smart enough that it isn’t something he does openly. He will also resort to bullying if something is annoying to him but can’t really be corrected, especially if it involves certain color-rider combinations that he finds to be unacceptable.
On the subject of color, K’ienn does not think of chromatics as worthless like his father did, but he does believe they have their natural roles and should not stray from them by trying to be leaders or by Impressing the wrong sort of rider – women on blues and browns? Tacky. And whites… well, they shouldn’t even be hatched, if they can’t do it themselves. They barely have any stamina and are all but useless in a fall… really, they shouldn’t even be hatched.
And all those unaffiliated riders and their dragons out there, living however they like while Thread falls? Now those are the worthless ones. Every dragon should be united in the fight, preferably under the authority of High Reaches. Tithes? They’re not as hard to get as they were before Thread, but from those last few holders with closed hands… they are to be extracted by whatever means necessary.
If K’ienn sounds a little too focused on these things, well... he kind of is. What started as a childhood hero worship of his ambitious father K’voran matured into a competition for superiority once K’ienn had Impressed a bronze of his own. It was exciting and all sorts of fun to be an equal with his once-untouchable father, but when Yisketh flew his first gold, K’ienn lost control over his ego. He sincerely believed that as a bronzer, he had to have rank in order to be of real use – and he was well on his way to getting there. Since then, he’s been on a reckless drive to reach the top, not really caring who gets trampled underfoot on the way, or who thinks poorly of him, unless it’s someone in charge.
He can be deliriously charming, but it’s not something he does often these days unless he’s got ulterior motives. He doesn’t show much positive emotion in general, to be honest. He’s been driving forward toward that singular goal for so long that the only pure moments he really has are those that come in the quiet moments, when he’s alone with Yisketh, or half-asleep in the aftermath of a flight.
K’ienn genuinely loves his home and wants the best for it, but unfortunately, somewhere along the way, he hit a few snags that pulled him down into something ugly, and hasn’t been able to resurface.
Rider's History: (Spoiled because it is long.)
Kovalienn was weyrbred, born at High Reaches to goldrider Dalienne and bronzerider K’voran. Though his progenitors weren’t closely involved in their son’s early upbringing (his mother was unaffiliated with the Weyr and left when he was only a few turns old), Kovalienn idolized his sire and hung onto his every word. The man was big and strong, dark-skinned with a steely gaze and hair black as coal. He rode the powerful bronze Axantath, a proud, muscular beast that to the innocent eyes of a child seemed legendary. The boy would often sit unnoticed under the table or behind a counter, just listening to the man and his cronies talk, all of them strong bronzeriders.
They spoke of dragon colors and weyr leadership – wouldn’t it be grand if all of Pern were united under the Weyrleaders of High Reaches? But all of those other colors, those worthless greens and blues… even some browns and metallics, for shame! They were fighting against the natural order and weakening the weyrs from the inside out. And the holdfolk… it was foolish of those ground-bound vermin to dismiss dragons as worthless wastes of resources. Thread would return someday. Then the bronzes would show their might, and those naysayers would regret. They would pay for their disbelief when Thread fell and the dragons rose to glory.
K’voran participated in numerous gold flights over the turns, vying for his desired place among the leadership. He was a wingleader for as long as Kovalienn could remember, but his bronze always seemed to fail when it came to the flights that would determine the next Weyrleader. He was too young then to understand the sort of pressure being put on the dragon in those critical moments, but he would learn soon enough.
By age fifteen, Kovalienn had already become a miniature version of his father, a handsome but prideful little prince who repeated much of the same things he’d heard his elder say. He knew that when he Impressed, it would be to a bronze. Nothing else was worth so much as a disdainful glance. He stood for Eveleth’s maiden clutch and did Impress that bronze, and the only metallic in the clutch, to boot… but not before Yisketh was terribly humiliated by a blue clutchmate who seemed to think that somehow he was better than a bronze!
If Kovalienn had any doubts as to the inferiority of chromatics, blue Krahsujunth deftly amputated them with his intolerable behavior – first aggressively knocking Yisketh down for no discernible reason, and then going on to Impress a girl. And that girl, Vilirind? She actually presumed to take an honorific! That was just altogether tasteless. K’ienn will be hesitant to admit to it, but he did come to fisticuffs with “V’rind” a few short months after the hatch. Such an encounter was inevitable, though, for their bronze and blue feuded regularly since day one.
For the safety of his Yisketh, he might have tried to mitigate the hostility between the two dragons – had his father not interfered. With K’ienn’s Impression of a bronze, suddenly K’voran became acutely aware of his son as if he were lit up with beacons. The boy was welcomed into the company of his childhood heroes, and at his tender fifteen turns he still saw them through rosy-colored lenses. He was taught that no chromatic should ever be permitted to so much as lift its head in defiance against a metallic. Blue Krahsujunth was to be thoroughly trounced.
But the trouncing did not happen. Inch for inch, Krahsujunth kept up in size with his bronze brother as they grew. Even a full turn later, nearing the end of their growth, they were barely a few armspans apart in length. It was clear that K’ienn and Yisketh would have to employ other methods of recompense.
Krahsujunth had a rather hopeless tendency to be attracted to gold dragons, which gave Yisketh several opportunities to flaunt his superiority in ways which were difficult to refute. In their third turn, a gold dragonet named Fianth was hatched. Inconceivably, Krahsujunth chose this particular gold to fall head over heels for… so Yisketh took her when she rose for her maiden flight. He liked her well enough, but ultimately, she was a means to an end, for his rider at least. Fianth’s rider, Olliah, could be the Weyrwoman of High Reaches someday, after all.
K’ienn’s relationship with Olliah was… well, not what it could have been, had his priorities been in a better place. She was certainly a beautiful woman, but so much more than that. She was a rare jewel – innocent, gentle and nurturing – well worth the time and the effort to pursue for reasons beyond the golden dragon she rode. The young man had an inkling of this in the early days of their union, and he was very happy with her… perhaps even loved her. But, sadly, happiness would not be enough to satisfy him at that point in his life.
At every gold flight, Yisketh would be pitted against K’voran’s bronze Axantath for superiority, and often Krahsujunth as well. The determined Yisketh sired a second clutch by Fianth with a particularly spectacular mating flight, resulting in a staggering twenty-four eggs. It was the largest High Reaches clutch in the last twenty turns and tied with the previous record in recent history. The clutch included a golden egg and three bronzes.
Those bronzer cronies of his father’s, most of whom were already wavering in their loyalties by then, began to gravitate toward K’ienn, and soon he found himself their leader in place of K’voran. He made it their mission to take more action instead of sitting around chatting about their opinions, as they’d done under his father. Through less than gentle avenues, K’ienn set to conforming as many deviants as possible to fall in line with the traditions of High Reaches. He was not above threats, whistleblowing, or outright force. He was also more than happy to visit holds and “persuade” those snobby civilians to hand over the tithes rightfully due to the Weyr.
Yisketh sired a third clutch by Fianth the same turn that her Olliah became Weyrwoman Second. It felt like fate was on K’ienn’s side. This was about a turn before the next weyrleadership flight, and though neither K’ienn nor his father were so fortunate as to win that flight, the young man and his bronze were pleased to discover that somewhere along the line they had managed to get themselves noticed by the Weyrwoman Zheria. K’ienn wasted no time in cultivating her favor, confidently carrying out any task she put to him without question or hesitance. He dared not think of himself as anything approaching her equal, but if he worked hard enough… maybe someday.
It is unknown exactly when K’ienn got it into his head that he needed to become a Weyrleader, but somewhere along the line it became the only thing that really mattered to him. It was his obsession, driving him ever further from that chance at happiness he might have shared with Olliah. His private words to her went from sweet nothings, to excitedly sharing his ambitions and progress... to complaining, questioning, blaming himself, his mother, his father, the lesser riders... anyone who he felt was in his way at achieving his dreams. He never blamed Olliah, but later wondered if perhaps he hadn’t made her feel like he did. It had seemed, at the time she ended their relationship of eight turns, that she’d been the one to grow distant and uninterested.
Yisketh, for his part, was all but distraught at losing Fianth. When she rose for her fourth flight, the desperate bronze and blue Krahsujunth clashed in the air. With the focus on gold Fianth, no one really saw which of the males initiated the fight, or if it had somehow been instigated by one of their riders. In any case, it was a short and bloody collision, followed by a reckless sprint to catch Fianth. But neither caught her – she chose bronze Rintath instead. Her next flight was even worse. K’ienn and K’voran both demanded what was arguably too much of their bronzes, who gave every ounce of effort they could muster. The two bronzes seemed to be unstoppable, gaining on Fianth with such precise determination that most of the onlookers couldn’t begin to predict who’d be the one to catch her.
Without warning, Axantath shattered. Somehow, he’d flown with what seemed like bottomless reserves of vigor until he reached his absolute limit... and plummeted. Thankfully, he was saved by some dragons who’d been spectating. It seemed like Yisketh would be the victor in that flight, but in the last moments bronze Ruvath, who had been conserving his stamina, surged ahead and caught his prize. K’voran’s bronze lived, but was permanently grounded, and K’voran disgraced. Instead of seeing the incident as a cautionary tale to be heeded, though, K’ienn was inordinately pleased that his father was out of the race. That was one less opponent to deal with. Not that it got him any closer to reconciliation with Olliah, or to any sort of relationship with another goldrider. Even when Yisketh managed to catch one of those glittering golds, it never led to anything more than a night or a few, no lingering connection that K’ienn could feel on the inside, or could use on the outside.
For hundreds of turns, High Reaches had been in its own little world, operating with the assumption that Thread would return to Pern. That was part of the tradition that K’ienn and Yisketh served, and when the silver rain did come, they took it as confirmation for everything they stood for… and every fall was a chance to further prove their quality.
With the latest hatch at High Reaches came several new weyrling pairs, including a gold and bronze, with great potential to be molded to the traditions, and perhaps even to serve as stepping stones in K’ienn’s and Yisketh’s objective to climb the ranks. Unfortunately, there were also an alarming number that might be... difficult. Those had been noted, and would not escape their watchful eyes.
Where did your rider Impress from? High Reaches
How long as he been stationed at High Reaches Weyr? He’s lived at High Reaches his entire life, Impressed and has been a bronzerider there for the last 21 turns.
How do they feel about Thread's return? K’ienn and Yisketh were among those who believed Thread was returning, and they have lived as if it could come back any day. Yes, it’s led to some harsh responses to some who buck tradition, but there was good intent behind it. In a way, the pair feels vindicated both in their beliefs and in their previous actions in serving High Reaches. They have suffered no great personal losses thus far and have no vendetta against it, other than the drive for survival of the Weyr, the bonus of glory, and Yisketh’s natural inclination to fight.
How do they feel about their current Weyr? It is home. Its traditions are the obvious blueprint for success during the days of Threadfall, including the color hierarchy and the way that the two highest positions of power are essentially chosen by the dragons, who know best. To follow the traditions creates order, strength, and harmony.
Why do they want to be a Wingleader, Icly? K’ienn is terribly ambitious, but truly believes he has something to bring to the table as a Wingleader. He has been specifically preparing for the opportunity to rank up for the last sixteen turns (since just after Yisketh triggered the drive by flying his first gold) and knows the duties inside out. He wants to excel and serve High Reaches in the highest capacity he is capable of, especially if it involves getting others to serve as ardently as he does. Yisketh is a very traditional bronze at heart, and has a strong desire to protect and guide the “lesser” dragons. What better place to do that than directly on the field of battle?
Why do you (OOCly) think they'd be a good fit? We all know K’ienn isn’t some knight in shining armor, but he and his bronze are dedicated, good fighters, well-educated and ready to step up and prove themselves. K’ienn’s harsher methods and attitude seem to be somewhat of a norm for the leadership of High Reaches, and being a Wingleader would give him the actual authority to back up his marshaling tendencies – over his own wingmembers, at least. It would also force him to grow as a person by having to take more public action and be held responsible instead of using underhanded ways or bullying to get things done. He’ll still do some of that when he can get away with it, because he’s K’ienn, but ultimately his goal is to do what he feels is right for the Weyr’s well-being by putting himself in a place where he can make it happen. I’d also like to see how he deals with being held responsible for OTHER people’s actions, especially if their opinions don’t line up with his own to begin with. And the whole rockstar bronzer motif. That was totally the image I had for him from the beginning.
Yisketh would definitely take his job seriously and with great care for his fellow dragons. His dichotomy of genuinely having everyone’s best interest at heart, and yet being generally disliked would be interesting to play out with him in a real leadership position. He may not have a lot of friends, but he doesn’t need to be loved in order to do a job naturally programmed into his color. He’d work hard to at least gain his wingmates’ respect (if it isn't forthcoming) so that everyone’s job is done well and safely.
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 goal-oriented RP/games, and prizes. If manageable and permitted, possibly a simple point system for certain high-tier rewards. Obviously any prize would be nothing that requires official shop art, unless I end up with a pet of my own that can be given away. I’m not too big on ORP meet-n-greet and lecture-type roleplays as those seem to fizzle quickly. I’d also imagine we’ll get enough drill-like RP with the actual Threadfall game but would do an occasional drill if members are interested. I would of course open K’ienn and Yisketh to individual RP needs and plots of wingmembers. I’d like to see real benefits and camaraderie ICly and OOCly, and for players to be excited about being and participating in a wing! Would definitely look for suggestions and ideas from fellow players, too.
Rider's Name: L'fer Rider's Age: 31 Dragon's Name: Morpeth Dragon's Age: 13 Dragon Color: Green Which Weyr are they Stationed at? Western Weyr Are they an approved PC or someone made specifically for the contest? Semi-custom, green
Inspiration:
Up to the artist! The only thing I'll say is she's not really dainty, delicate, or even pretty in a traditional sense. Her lack of femininity features in her personality, so that's really the only reason (she secretly wishes she was). Doesn't have to be, but free reign to make her as weird/mangy/scary as you like
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Rider's Personality: L'fer is an adventurous soul. He enjoys excitement and danger, and loves nothing more than a challenge he and Morpeth can overcome together. As a young man, he was even more so. He wanted to fight thread (even before it returned), he wanted to see all of Pern, try moves that no one had ever done before, do everything, meet everyone.. As he's gotten older, however, he's scaled back his wanderlust somewhat. He's more keen to stay in one place than he used to be, enjoying the sense of community he has at Western Weyr and wanting to protect and defend his home rather than seek out adventure elsewhere.
An inherently honest person, L'fer is not a master of subtlety and is a terrible liar. It's a good thing he never gambles because he's the kind of person whose face is like an open book. Even truths that are concealed to save someone's feelings weigh on his mind until he usually cracks and admits the truth. He's not always the best diplomat, trying but typically failing to be nice about it. He finds white lies to be as difficult as any other, so even when he's trying not to hurt someone's feelings, he's such a bad liar that it usually doesn't work. But you'll always know where you stand with him. His honesty doesn't just extend to harsh truths, but difficult ones as well, and you can be sure L'fer will never lie to save his own skin or make himself seem better.
Similar to lies, past decisions often weigh heavily on L'fer's mind. He's the kind of person who can't easily let things go. When he feels he did something wrong or made a bad decision, it plagues him constantly. When he was younger, his natural reaction was to run from this feeling, trying to distract himself with new thrills or adventures. Recently he's started taking the more mature approach of trying to correct or admit his mistakes when he notices them. It's still difficult, especially when all he wants is to push them from his mind entirely, but he knows that it's better off in the long run.
L'fer is ambitious, but not necessarily for power or importance. He wants to work for something he believes in, achieve his best, and stand out as someone that can be relied on. He wants to be trusted with more responsibilities because he truly enjoys his work. Flying with Morpeth is the only thing that has ever come naturally to him. The idea that they were asked to be less than they are (that anyone would be) just to avoid hurting the pride of some bronze rider still doesn't sit right with him. L'fer is staunchly against any kind of color bias, and will stamp it out the second he sees it cropping up in his wing.
Though capable of putting up with a lot, once L'fer reaches his breaking point, he becomes short tempered and irritable until he's able to take a breath and destress. His natural reaction to bullying or insults is to ignore it, but he grows increasingly frustrated as things continue. Similarly, L'fer meets any adversity with redoubled effort, but if time goes on and the situation seems impossible to improve, he can become disheartened and it takes some encouragement from his never-say-die dragon to pull him out of it.
L'fer truly enjoys their work at the Weyr, seeing every day as a new and exciting challenge. Still, he is by no means a workaholic. He knows Morpeth is sensitive to his stress levels so he is careful to take time to recharge and unwind, and is diligent in making sure his wing riders do the same. Outside of work, L'fer is personable, but a little shy. He is still a little cautious of other people and usually needs someone (often his dragon) to help bring him out of his shell. He is a genuinely kind and caring person once you get to know him. He feels truly grateful for what he has in life now, which always helps to lift his spirits. He wants to spread the joy and make sure everyone else in the Weyr is happy as well. If you tell him a problem, he'll do anything he can to try and solve it for you, and likely won't be able to rest until he's able to succeed.
Rider's History: As a child, L'fer lived at a small hold near Nabol, training as a blacksmith under his father. When he was 15, L'fer was searched as a candidate to the near by High Reaches Weyr. It was there that he met his tough little tomboy Morpeth, and no gleaming bronze hide could ever convince him she wasn't the best dragon in the world.
At first, L'fer was more than happy to remain at the Weyr. He liked the work and believed, as High Reaches did, that dragons had a duty to continue training for the eventual return of thread. He was military minded himself, enjoying the rigor and training of High Reaches life. But he was talented and ambitious, and both were qualities not everyone wanted to see in a green rider. In particular, after he was singled out for praise by their wingleader shortly after joining the wing, a bronze rider by the name of K'ienn took it upon himself to warn him against drawing too much attention to himself.
Granted, L'fer might have handled things better. He could have dodged the issue, claiming he was just doing what he could for the betterment of the wing. But he was young, cocky, and had always been somewhat more combative in personality than diplomatic. He found it both annoying and amusing that the man was so opposed to the idea of a green rider with talent, and he might have needled him about it a bit. Still, when the exchange was over, L'fer barely thought of it, assuming the matter closed. However, that turned out to be just one of the many times when the two of them would butt heads. But while L'fer started off as a valuable and well-liked member of the wing, he soon realized it didn't matter how talented you were; no one would side with a greenrider over a bronze. It didn't matter what K'ienn did or said, people would take his side, and the burden of proving him wrong was always on L'fer. At first, his outrage at the situation propelled him to try twice as hard and perform even better. But the more he achieved, the more determined K'ienn was to bring him down.
Dealing with the bronzerider's daily harassment, he started losing his temper more. He found it harder to focus in wing drills, feeling like he had to constantly watch his back, afraid K'ienn would try to undermine or sabotage him. Sadly, bronze riders had a bad habit of only listening to other bronzes, and with the things K'ienn would say about him, it wasn't long before he'd lost the faith of the wing's leadership as well. With everything said behind closed doors, there was nothing he could do to defend himself. And after a final, heated argument with K'ienn, he decided to leave the Weyr.
He left High Reaches with no real plan of where to go. Feeling like he had failed by not being able to remain at the Weyr, he was afraid to return home, fearing he would be a disappointment to them. He met Ambrin when he was at his lowest. Furious and frustrated that K'ienn had gotten what he wanted, he was looking for something to distract him from everything that happened. He wanted a sense of adventure, and a feeling of belonging, and Ambrin's group seemed to provide just that. Most importantly, he and Morpeth could reach for their full potential without ever being told that needed to be less. But the things they were doing weren't exactly the stuff of ballads. Frightening innocent runners, bullying people into paying up.. At first, he didn't care. At least, he told himself he didn't. These people had no connection to him, why should be worry about them? But as much as he liked Ambrin and Euma, the guilt still weighed on him. He was a man driven by bitterness, ambition, and a desire for adventure, but he wasn't a bad person at heart. It wasn't long before he saw the actions of the mercenary group as going too far. He regretted the resentment that drove him to join them, and began to increasingly look at his decision as a mistake, approaching the job with less enthusiasm and more reluctance.In the end, he knew he couldn't stay with the group forever. Not knowing how to explain or what to say, he just picked up one night and left with no explanation.
When he joined Western Weyr, L'fer was still a young man, but he felt like he was twenty turns older. In hindsight he realized he had never really gotten over what happened at High Reaches. He was upset that he let someone change his personality to that extent and was disappointed that he didn't have the courage to stand by his convictions despite adversity. When he returned to a Weyr, it wasn't seeking glory or ambition, but as a last resort. Morpeth, who had always been sensitive to his moods, had started suffering the consequences of the constant stress, her health declining. He needed somewhere to hide from his past, both figuratively and literally. He chose Western simply because it was the furthest away at the time.
However, once he got to the Weyr, and despite holding no hope for anything more than a dull career of being told to stay in his place and not to stand out, he found Western Weyr to be delightfully different. People there seemed to foster talent from all colors, and genuinely believe in the kind of equality he thought was only a fantasy within a Weyr. It still took some time for his paranoia to fade. He was still ready for a fight every time he voiced his opinion. He still braced himself any time he succeeded, waiting for the other shoe to drop. But over time, his heart began to heal from the anger and mistrust he'd come to believe was synonymous with living in a Weyr. He saw Western as his chance for redemption, a way to make up for the things that he had done as a mercenary, and with nothing to hold him back, he and Morpeth could put their full effort into their work, quickly rising in rank and renown.
Where did your rider Impress from? High Reaches
How long as he been stationed at High Reaches or Western Weyr? 6 turns
How do they feel about Thread's return? Impressing at High Reaches, L'fer was not really surprised by the return of thread. He had always advocated for stricter and more rigorous preparations, believing that it may one day happen. He believes it is all dragons' duty to fight thread and defend Pern, but hopes to peacefully bring others back into the fold and is against commanding dragons back, considering it counter productive. Morpeth feels as any dragon does; she has a strong drive to destroy their ancient enemy and protect the people of Pern. She has always been indefatigable in her work, striving forward with a single-minded enthusiasm, and sees thread as just one more obstacle for them to overcome.
How do they feel about their current Weyr? Western is L'fer's sanctuary. When he had all but given up on finding his place in the world, he stumbled upon somewhere that shared his values, supported his ambition, and accepted him as an equal. He wholeheartedly supports the acceptance and equality that form the Weyr's principles and believes in the system of democracy they have set up for its leadership. Chronically content, Morpeth has never really had an issue fitting in in anywhere they've lived, but she is happy that her rider is less stressed here and Western.
Why do they want to be a Wingleader, ICly? L'fer considers Western his one true home, and its people his family. At High Reaches, he had a sense of purpose, but not of belonging. With the mercenaries, he found that acceptance, but didn't believe in the things they were fighting for. At Western he has both. All he wants is to defend his home, to fight, to be the best that he can be. As a wingleader, he hopes he can do the most good. He strives to defend his windriders not just from thread, but also to shield them from bureaucratic and political side of things. If someone has a problem with one of his wingriders, he insists they come to him first. If it warrants punishment, he'll deal with it himself, if not, he's there to take the brunt of people's complaints and act as his rider's advocates if the issue is petty or unwarranted. The more of things he can take care of himself, the less his riders have to deal with to distract them from focusing on training and fighting thread.
Why do you (OOCly) think they'd be a good fit? L'fer is a rider with a troubled past, but from the start, all he wanted was to be allowed to perform at his best. Even at Western, he still works with all the vigor of someone with something to prove. He and Morpeth have always been talented riders and hard workers, and Western has only brought out best in them. He wants to be the kind of wingleader he wished he'd had. The sort that supports all members of his wing, bolsters those of talent regardless of their color, and (most importantly) defends his wingmates against unfair attacks, both from outside and within. L'fer will always be willing to stick his neck out for someone on his wing. He jumps on every opportunity to prove himself and showcase the talent of his riders, never shying from extra work.
Do you have any plans or ideas on what you'd do with one of the Wings if given one? L'fer would make an excellent advocate for his wing members, so I would love to work with individual riders if they wanted to do side missions/assignments for their characters. I'm always available if someone has an idea for a RP, and I'd be more than happy to run wings drills or team RPs if people have an interest in it. I'd love to do IC applications for wing second too.
Posted: Sun Aug 20, 2017 8:24 pm
I'm Ready to Lead! Sign Me Up!
Rider's Name: G'er Rider's Age: 25 Dragon's Name: Ironith Dragon's Age: 11 Dragon Color: Bronze Which Weyr are they Stationed at? High Reaches Weyr Are they an approved PC or someone made specifically for the contest? --->If pre-made bronze, what's your preference? bronze-ro-001-800-Tarazet , Bronze02Real, SeekingBronze2, Bronze04, Bronze01, Bronze06
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Rider's Personality: G'er is the sort to draw a definitive line between work and pleasure. When acting in a professional capacity, he is formal, courteous, and exacting. He believes very strongly in hard work, practice, and comraderie. His own social network has helped him get through some of the rougher patches of his life and he expects his wing to echo this tight-knit brother and sisterhood. He will tolerate disturbances only so long as they don't cause strife within his work and, once you're off for the day, he's more than happy to do drinking.
He doesn't buy into the whole bronze makes right mentality of the Weyr but he's extremely good at utilizing that bias. Keenly aware of the expectations and power of not only a bronzerider but a Wingleader, G'er utilizes his position to champion certain causes for non-bronzes and leverage the experience or advice he's garnered from his wingmates. That's not to say he doesn't expect everyone to live up to the ideal bronzerider – it's what he personally strives for – and can be particularly demanding if he believes someone is lagging behind. It's not just a matter of ability, it's a matter of life and death and lagging means you risk the lives of both yourself and your wingmates, which is absolutely unacceptable.
Off duty, G'er is a jovial fellow and likes to gamble. He can't take risks on-duty but he sure as shards can when he's not being official. Knuckle bones, cards, betting at races... even dares are all options as long as they don't cross an invisible line and make him switch into official wingleader mode. It's earned him a bit of a reputation as being a 'people man'.
He has a good head for patterns and rewards those who can challenge him with puzzles, riddles, and other such intellect sharpening tasks. G'er loves a good riddle as much as he likes a fine wine. This propensity for leadership, attention to detail, and eye for patterns is what garnered him enough esteem to be granted the title of Wingleader in the first place.
Rider's History: G'er was born in one of the cotholds that dot High Reaches' territory. He had been born to a weaver and a farmer and was a rambunctious, energetic, and sharpminded child. Enough so that if he wasn't underfoot he was off getting into some trouble or other as he explored the land. This independance drew him away from the cothold more frequently than it should have throughout his childhood and while his parents tolerated it, it was starting to develop a reputation for being lazy and unreliable.
That all changed, however, when he turned 13 and he lost his mother to a stampede of herdbeasts. He'd skipped out on the work for the day, where he was expected to help herd the beasts into their corrals for sorting, tagging, tithes, and slaughter. His mother stepped in to fill the gap G'er had left. She helped around the farm, yes, but most of her time was spent weaving garments and fabrics for the cothold not herding beasts. Her inexperience and petite frame were no match for the angry bull and she was trampled to death when they broke through the corral.
G'er returned expecting to tell his folks of his latest exploits and get the usual gentle reprimand. Instead he came home to a family torn asunder. He blamed himself and the death hit him hard... he changed thereafter, trying to make amends. It taught him a lesson that he will never forget: your life is a part of the community's, irresponsibility endangers those around you.
About six months after his mother's death, he and few other children from the cothold were searched for High Reaches Weyr. He went because he could not bear his father's gaze or the sideways glances from his neighbours any more. It was as raw for them as it was him and he could not help but find blame in their gazes. The Weyr was a chance to start over, to prove he could be depended upon. His father did not disagree, believing the move would teach his son discipline and dedication.
It wasn't long before G'er stood upon the sands for the first time. Nervous and the first hints of his future self stirring within, Ironith made a beeline for him. He'd barely completed his Candidate training and now he was a bronze rider. The realization dawned on him immediately and the weight of that responsibility clicked into place upon his shoulders. From that point forward, he dedicated himself towards being the ideal bronzerider and cultivated positive social connections as a private means of redemption – when people ask about his past, he rarely answers, either changing the subject or speaking vaguely.
Where did your rider Impress from? High Reaches Weyr
How long as he been stationed at High Reaches or Western Weyr? Since he was 14, so 11 years.
How do they feel about Thread's return? Thread is perhaps the most dangerous enemy they've ever faced. He's lost friends and he's heard of the decimation wreaked elsewhere. He is terrified of Thread but also sees it as a chance to protect his father from afar – burning Thread from the sky is but one way he can takes steps for being the reason his mother died.
How do they feel about their current Weyr? G'er enjoys High Reaches Weyr. There is a defined hierarchy and as a bronzerider, his merit will be noticed should he provide reason to do so. He finds it a place of opportunity and comraderie, and pride. High Reaches Weyr alone was prepared for the return of Thread, resulting in fewer deaths of innocents.
Why do they want to be a Wingleader, Icly? G'er wants to be a Wingleader because he understands the role of the dragonriders, the importance of cooperation and duty, and fully embraces all of it. He wants to ensure other do not make the same mistakes he did, not when the stakes are higher than ever before.
Why do you (OOCly) think they'd be a good fit? His charismatic, has decent leadership skils, and his head for patterns means its that much easier for him not only to run drills but spot weaknesses in those drills. He strengthens the Flights of High Reaches Weyr by being an approachable, yet demanding, leader.
Do you have any plans or ideas on what you'd do with one of the Wings if given one? I'd like to run some wing drill events. Possibly have the wing actually fight thread together when those events start. I'd love to run a wingsecond recruiting event/giveaway!
Rider's Name: D'cius Rider's Age: 52 Dragon's Name: Sorath Dragon's Age: 32(Hatch day is 3541.09.26) Dragon Color: Bronze Which Weyr are they Stationed at? Western Weyr Are they an approved PC or someone made specifically for the contest? Made 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? MH03, MH02, Tarazet, Tanako, Andranis2, MH04, Andranis1 --->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: A leader at heart, D'cius is a very charismatic man who knows just what to say to get you on his side. This, however, does not help him much if people hold to firmly onto their own beliefs because if it does not seem as if they are going to listen to reason, i.e him, D'cius tends to begin to lose his temper. He prefers to look at things through a very logical mind, showing facts and statistics instead of believing a gut feeling.
Military minded, D'cius has been called a drill sergeant in his older age. He expects a lot of hard work to be put out through those he works with. He puts his all in to his words and expects nothing less then those around him. He does not care for lazy people, or for those who cut corners and has been known to call them out on it. He isn't afraid of revealing a pretender for who they really are, especially if they have not gotten to where they are based upon their own merit and deeds.
Rider's History: Born of a drudge mother and an unknown dragonrider father at Southern Weyr, D'cius was your typical weyrbrat, spending a lot of his time running around with the others and getting into trouble. His mother did her best to provide for him and he was quick to go to work helping earn extra marks with what he could do. He spend a lot of his childhood as he got older, helping his mother take care of her growing brood, though when he was ten he finally received a stepfather, a journeyman healer who became infatuated with his lovely unlucky mother.
At the age of fourteen, D'cius entered candidacy at his mothers urging. She wanted her oldest son to have a chance to be like his father. She always told him epic stories about the man who his father was and the bronze dragon he rode upon. D'cius had an urge to find out who his father was but was never able to as he learned that his father and the dragon had been older and disappeared because the dragon had died from heart problems so his father took felis to join his partner.
D'cius spent eight years as a candidate, watching as hatching after hatching came and went, with him never impressing. He was figuring he would end up a drudge like his mother, though his step-father had promised to always be there to teach the boy in the craft of healing, D'cius never saw himself like that. He had his heart set on following in his birth father's footsteps as a dragonrider.
It was the last hatching when he was twenty that D'cius resigned himself to quit the candidacy program if he did not manage to impress. Perhaps is was the cynical thinking that helped, but impress he did. A large bronze hatchling was one of the last to burst from his egg and marched with his head held high towards D'cius. As the two stared at one another and impression was made, D'cius knew the world was now open to him more then it ever could.
Weyrling training went easily for D'cius and Sorath. They excelled in all of their studies, though they found themselves stifled by the weyr. D'cius had begun to study the records the weyr had upon thread and began to wonder if it was truly as gone as everyone wanted to believe. Getting frustrated when those at the weyr did not take him seriously, D'cius and Sorath left, to his mothers dismay.
The two went to Western where they found a small group of like minded riders who believe the same thing, but still, the rest of the weyr did not seem to believe it. The one difference, and what kept them in place, was the fact that the weyr at least acted like they were preparing to fight thread if it ever did return.
D'cius and Sorath got alone well at Western, with Sorath even siring a clutch through one of the golden queens, Vimiath.
When thread finally did return, D'cius and Sorath were ready. With the other riders of the weyr, they managed to keep Western Weyr and the holds closest to it safe.
Where did your rider Impress from? Southern Weyr
How long as he been stationed at High Reaches or Western Weyr? D'cius has been stationed at Western for twenty years
How do they feel about Thread's return? An anomaly in Western, D'cius always had a feeling that thread would return, perhaps it was an ache in his joints, or a pull that he always felt. He was one of a few who tried to keep Western prepared like High Reaches was, perhaps one of the reasons their weyr did not fall completely.
How do they feel about their current Weyr? D'cius finds it very interesting. Having spent the majority of his life at Southern, a weyr that followed the old hierarchy and traditions like High Reaches, seeing a dragon earn their spot based on their merit and skill and not just the color of their hide is very interesting and something that he prefers. If a dragon cannot go above their station, based upon the color of their hide, what drive will they have to do better then what they already can?
Why do they want to be a Wingleader, ICly? D'cius has a mind for strategy and combat. A drill sergeant at heart, he wishes to whip those of the wings into shape. He is more concerned about getting them to where they could operate like a cohesive team, with the colors intermingled in their flights. He wants Bronzes and browns to rely upon and help out the blues and greens of their flights more then they might normally do.
Why do you (OOCly) think they'd be a good fit? D'cius is a military commander type, he wishes to help the wings get better the best way that he knows how and that is with tough love. While he won't let anything go to his head, the tough approach can be the best, especially when making colors that aren't use to working together, work together.
Do you have any plans or ideas on what you'd do with one of the Wings if given one? With D'cius a lot of fun little training game, excersizes.
Posted: Mon Aug 21, 2017 1:18 pm
I'm Ready to Lead! Sign Me Up!
Rider's Name:Ra'fe Rider's Age: 37 Dragon's Name: Banneth Dragon's Age:11 Dragon Color:Bronze Which Weyr are they Stationed at? High Reaches Weyr Are they an approved PC or someone made specifically for the contest?made for 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? Solid Bronze Tanakako, Bronze 06, Bronze 04, Bronze 02, flying bronze, Tara bronze --->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: Ra'fe is probably the sole bronze rider in High Reaches weyr that hasn't drank the superiority kool-aid. He isn't a push over, there is clear confidence in his abilities, but he also has a level head and isn't prone to boasting or swaggering when he walks. He is also just so tired of all this bullshit, but keeps it to himself and follow orders. He is loyal, stubbornly so, seeing things through even when it runs him down. He is just so tired right now. Not physically, but mentally just dealing with all this superior bullshit and that he is something special because of Banneth shade of hide instead of his own merits.
Rider's History: Ra'fe grew up with his uncle in Tillek hold, while his father was off at sea and his mother who knows where. He was raised like a boy basically from infancy up, which he is thank you very much, and has know he was a boy from the very tender age of five. Puberty was absolute hell on all three of them. He had never seen his uncle blush before. His dad general feeling is don't talk about it, and nope. His uncle taught him sword smithing, teaching him the ins and out of making weapons and hard honest work. He was full prepared to follow in his uncle's footsteps having walked the table to be a journeyman and having his own corner in his uncle's forge.
Tillek goods were done right without cutting corners and he liked to consider them some of the best. It wasn't meant to be though, he was in High Reaches Hold to deliver a blade when he got invited to accompany his client to the Weyr to see the hatching. He went out of curiosity and to get an bit of inspiration for a project. It wasn't a large clutch being a queens maiden flight but the hatchings were certainly worth staying a bit longer. He also felt that their was something he wasn't quite getting as people chattered about the draognets currently out, mainly shades of blue and greens and occasional brown.
The biggest egg hatched towards the end to untold excitement as a hint of something bronze flashed and the egg finally broke spilling out a dragonet. Which everyone seemed to be excited about? Certainly the boys in candidate robes started to stand up more straight. The bronze though careened straight into the girls, seemly ignoring all the boys. Crashed into his mother before waddling off into the boys as if directed.
Ra'fe will say Banneth while very elegant now was a very clumsy hatching.
The minutes ticked by and soon the bronze was the only one left, frustrated and looked up towards the sands.
His life changed rapidly, perhaps others would say for the better but now he was a rider not a sword smith. He was a bronze rider and some how that was better because he was getting suddenly more attention then the others in his group. It ranked on him that he was not being judged soley on his merit but on Banneth's hide coloration though he would never give up his dragon.
Ra'fe remained because it was his weyr, where he impressed perhaps out of mistaken loyalty and that they had not crossed that line to make him leave. It was Banneth home. In all, Ra'fe follow through with his commitments even when he never signed up for them. Flights are something he and Banneth are still working out, but things are getting some what better.
Where did your rider Impress from?High Reaches
How long as he been stationed at High Reaches or Western Weyr? 11 years
How do they feel about Thread's return?Ra'fe feels a tired acceptance, that they never knew for sure and it is back and they are prepaired for it. But it is also 50 turns of thread fall and they have to face not only physical death but trauma issues. Or its just a sharding mess.
Banneth on the other hand feels like he is doing what he is met to do. He is a lovely handsome knight and he is fighting the enemy that he was hatched to do. So there is a sort of satisfaction that he not only does what he is meant to but well.
How do they feel about their current Weyr? If Ra'fe wasn't so loyal he would have left long ago.
Banneth loves his weyr, it is home! It where they have always been, why would he want to leave.
Why do they want to be a Wingleader, ICly?Truthfully, Ra'fe thinks D'mon was drunk off his a** when he got assigned. Otherwise just try to keep everyone safe.
Banneth on the other hand just excited to form close relationships with everyone and maybe they will have a better chance to fly a queen.
Why do you (OOCly) think they'd be a good fit?Ra'fe is level headed and not an arrogant s**t.
Banneth on the other hand believes in chivalry and loyalty and they are fighting a threat to all of pern that will be captured in song.
So a level headed commander and a romantic dragon.
Do you have any plans or ideas on what you'd do with one of the Wings if given one? Not terribly, except Ra'fe wants to start a 'remedial group' for green and blue riders in the wing and probably assign one or two of them to be the captain because he is to important to do it.
Or Ra'fe assigns more then the amount of wing seconds then he should under the guise of 'remedial group' captains doing drills so green and blues have someone to speak for them, to him.
3562.11.24 - High Reaches Weyr - Sharath's Maiden Flight Sharath x Entath 18 Eggs 0 gold / 1 bronze / 2 browns / 5 blues / 10 greens
