Post by firethorne on Jul 17, 2010 15:37:07 GMT -5
OOC Info:
What would you like to be called OOC? Thorne or FT
Recruited by: HG
Email: fire.thorne@yahoo.com
Character Info:
Name: Raelwyn
Age: 28
Gender: Female
Rank: Senior Weyrwoman
Family:
Grandfather (Father's side): G'tor (Deceased), rider of bronze Beornath
Granddame (Father's side): Raellen (68), Former Weyrguard member , now retired
Father: Gaeldim (52), Weyrguard member
Mother: Kami (49), Headwoman's Assistant
Brother: K’dim (31), rider of brown Zerith, transferred to Haven Weyr
Sister: Koulvi (25), Creche Nanny
-----Husband: Dellor (28), Hunter and forager
---------Son: Koullor (6)
---------Daughter: Doulvi (3)
---------Daughter: Kellor (2)
---------Son: Devor (Half-turn)
Sister: Seara (24), Creche Nanny
-----Husband: Biet (26) Weyrguard
---------Daughter: Bealla (5)
---------Son: Siet (4)
---------Daughter: Sietta (1)
Brother: Gaedmir (19), Weyrguard member-in-training
Appearance: Born in a working weyr, Raelwyn has a surprisingly lithe body that belies the tough upbringing she had. In appearance, she is a slim but well-built woman, and though she is far from heavy or robust, she does have enough weight on her not to be too terribly delicate. At the unimpressive height of 5’4”, the Weyrwoman has to keep a commanding presence or none will take her seriously. Her figure is not what one would call willowy, but she is built nimble, almost like a feline. Certainly, she may have subtle curves, but she isn't going to attract 'hordes' of attention for her great body, either. Her arms and legs are petite, but working for turns with her beloved gold has strengthened her limbs to the point where her appearance is deceiving. She may look lithe, but she is tough enough to care for a Queen, so do not underestimate her. It is not to say that she is muscular, because she's not, but she is stronger than you would think. However, you do not exactly have to worry about her laying you out if you tick her off…but she just might leave a bigger bruise on your jaw that you would suppose.
Despite her rather average body, there are a few things that the goldrider can claim for her beauty, and one is certainly her eyes. It has long been said by more than one person that they are indeed her best feature, and Raelwyn tends to agree. Her bright, liquid orbs stare from oval-shaped eyes, surrounded by a fringe of long lashes black as coal. Her irises are the most gorgeous, deep emerald one has ever seen, the color of a rich forest. They are clear and open, yet unfathomable and infinite. They hold a wisdom that should be beyond her turns, and her green gaze is the one thing the queenrider truly prides herself on, as far as appearances go. The Weyrwoman's face is delicate, much like the rest of her, with a gentle, small chin and petite nose. She is more cute than truly beautiful, and the only thing really striking about her are those lovely eyes. Her face is framed by long, honey-blonde hair that reaches just beneath her shoulder-blades when left loose, with a just enough of a wave to it that it curls very gently. She does like her hair. Rael ties it up into a messy bun when flying or working, but for formal events and restful times she keeps it down.
There is not an ounce of fat on the Weyrwoman, so her stomach is smooth and completely flat, a toned and fit physique earned from turns of caring for a queen. Aeriath has kept the woman on the move, so she is trim and in healthy shape. Her skin is a golden brown, since Raelwyn has spent her life outdoors, though not as tanned as some riders. She holds herself with dignity, but not really pride, so although you get the idea that she is a very confident person, one would never assume by her appearance that she is an arrogant individual. Her granddame had a very large hand in her upbringing, and Raellen would stand for no slouching in her protégé. The goldrider has her own amount of vanity, so her clothes are always meticulously clean and pressed to fall just so-so. She loves skirts, and though she cannot wear them often running around with her queen all the time, Rael has had several dresses made for Hatching Feasts and other festivities in their weyrs. Otherwise, she wears the practical clothing of a rider, though all of her garments are still clean and well-made.
For a woman who has toiled her whole life and worked hard for what she wants, the queenrider looks great, considering. She has a good complexion, really, with only a sprinkling of freckles along her nose and cheeks that do not stand out unless you are close. Her face is unmarked by scars, and there are only two noticeable ones on her whole body. One rests on her left hand, a shiny white line that runs diagonally from her middle knuckle to her wrist. She was cutting some tubers when a few errant children ran through the kitchen, and the last one rammed into her full-throttle and caused the knife to slip. The other is on her ankle, also the left side, on the inside of her leg. It is five inches long, pearly white, and ridged. Rael has never told anyone how she earned it, but she remembers it well. Naturally, she has many other small marks from candidacy and weyrling training, but they are not easily discernable.
Face Claim: Rachael Taylor
Personality: Raised in the rough-and-tumble world of the South, Raelwyn is a strong woman who is very confident in herself and her gold. As a child, the queenrider was always very sure of herself, having spent most of her time with her grandmother and learning these qualities, but after Impressing Aeriath and becoming Weyrwoman, those emotions have blossomed into a strong leadership streak. She is has grown into a secure and self-assured woman, and once she sets her mind to something, she does it. Rael is not exactly arrogant or self-righteous; she just has concrete faith in her own abilities as well as her gold's. She is also slightly stubborn, and once something is a certain way in her mind, there is no changing it. I'm sorry, did I say slightly? I meant she is voraciously stubborn and though it may not happen all the time, when an idea she wants nestles in her head there is NO getting it out. It is hard to argue with this goldrider when she really has set her heart on something, and it is generally a losing battle.
That is not to say she will not listen where the affairs of the weyr are concerned, though. Sound leadership is crucial in Refuge, with lives on the line every day and hanging on her decisions, so the Weyrwoman takes into account as many suggestions and concerns of her weyr staff to make informed calls as she can. Raelwyn understands the need for their input, and welcomes it. There are many things to consider when running the southern weyr; not only the supplies in the lower caverns of food and medical equipment, but the safety of those under her charge as well. However, she makes certain those in control are extremely skilled in the areas they oversee.
As Weyrwoman, Raelwyn is busy a great deal of the time, but she is a vivacious person who has an inviting presence. As confident and self-assured as she is, the queenrider has an outgoing personality that leaves no room for shyness or timid emotions. She and those in Refuge have grown up together, and though the weyr is too large for everyone to be close acquaintances, they are all a family. She really is what most would label a good and approachable person, and unless she has a record skin in her face, do not ever be dissuaded from sitting with her if she is alone in the weyrhall. Rael is a strong presence, however, so shy or quiet personalities will likely not find her qualities to be very welcoming. The goldrider is a social soul, and if you are bashful or quiet, you are not going to get along with her. However, she loves those in her weyr, and if a soft touch is needed, she will be.
Quick and clever from an early age, it is no wonder she Impressed gold. Raelwyn has a swift mind that processes things rapidly, and it is easy for her to commit information to memory. The queenrider hardly ever forgets a name, and she has dozens of record skins and information memorized. A very sharp mind resides in this lithe woman, and anyone around her would do best to remember it. However, she is not always logical, and just because she is very clever doesn’t mean she is always reasonable. She has a good head on her shoulders, but sometimes in sudden and intense circumstances she can leap without looking. Rael does have a tendency to respond to heated situations with her emotions first and logic second, but she has good intuition when it comes to weyr circumstances. Following her gut has never led her wrong before.
A person of strong convictions, the queenrider is very adamant and follows what she believes to be the correct course. When she feels something is right, undeniably right, Raelwyn will hold to her passion and fight for it. Even if she is disliked for it. In the light of her stubbornness, this is not too hard to believe, however. Along this same line, she also absolutely hates being wrong. Though she understands it will undeniably happen occasionally, Rael puts much work and thought into her decisions and strategy, she hates to hear that she was incorrect. It bugs her.
Adding to her list of imperfections, the Werywoman also has a temper. She does not easily get mad, for that emotion clouds judgment in a way the South cannot afford, but she does get irritated frequently and quickly. The goldrider has several odd pet peeves that grate on her nerves swiftly, such as seeing someone talk with food in their mouth or fidget when they want to speak with her. She also tends to get annoyed if something she planned does not go the way she envisioned, or gets interrupted. Since the woman takes such care in the running of Refuge, it simply irritates her to no end that something could still go wrong after she planned and strategized so carefully. Raelwyn’s true anger does not come out often at all, however. It takes quite a bit to get her mad instead of simply irritated, but if by some strange stroke of pure bad luck she does feel true fury, you are in for it. There are only three single things that can bring this about; threatening the well-being of those under her charge, hurting Aeriath, or lying to her. She hates to be lied to. These are the few things that can incense her beyond simple annoyance.
Despite her temper, though, the queenrider is a genuinely compassionate person. She hates to see others in pain, and if it is in her power to ease that ache, she will do it. The Weyrwoman has a good heart, and though she is strong and tough for Refuge, it has not diminished her inner empathy. Hate is not within her, and though irritation arises in a flash, it is forgotten quickly enough. Those whom she loves will know, because her affection is clear.
In birth and blood, Raelwyn is a natural leader, and she tends to be rather charismatic, quickly inspiring belief in her words and enthusiasm in her listeners. That is to say, when she likes, she can turn on the charm. It is an important quality of her, actually, because in order to lead, you HAVE to make people want to follow. And this Weyrwoman can make you want to follow her, believe me. The goldrider is an inspiring public speaker, and she leaves those under her voice fully confident that she will do everything she has said. This confident streak is certainly the fruit of her granddame’s labors, for the old weyrguard took the promising, unfinished weyrbrat and turned her into a pearl of a woman. She pushed and pulled, berated and loved, shoved and shamed, and polished and encouraged Rael her entire childhood until this strong person stood where a child had before.
She wants what is best for her beloved Weyrs, more than anything, and though she is concerned for both Refuge and Haven, her birth-weyr holds her undying love. Though angry at the northerners who banished her people all those turns ago, Raelwyn cannot find it in herself to stay bitter on that account. She is wonderfully content with her life. She loves her dear Aeriath more than anything, and she does what she can to keep Refuge safe and her inhabitants happy and well cared for. This is what she lives for, what her granddame raised her to do, and what makes her smile.
Excellent Qualities: Strong/Confident – Compassionate – Clever – Charismatic – Open/Friendly
Dreadful Qualities: Stubborn/Hardheaded – Impulsive – Easily Irritated – Hates to be wrong
Hobbies/Skills: Weyrbrat that she was, Raelwyn knows all the boring and domestic skills of the lower caverns ladies. Brew numbweed? Check. Mend clothing? Check. Cook? Check. So it goes, her repertoire of talents boasts all the usual dull necessities. However, unlike the other weyrbrats and drudges, the girl had a granddame in the weyrguard, and she took Rael under her wing and taught her so much more than just monotonous domestic skills. From chidlhood, Raellen taught her granddaughter how to wield a bow, and to this day the Weyrwoman is as keen a shot as any hunter. In the elder woman's eyes, every woman who would ever step out of the weyr needed some sort of defensive training, and she saw to it that Raelwyn received hers.
Pets: Tydus, brown firelizard (4 Turns)
History: Nothing is ever truly boring in the wilds of the south; anyone who was born in Refuge will know that. Down to the lowliest weyrbrat, there are stories to tell, and so it is with Raelwyn. Her father was a good, solid man born from a bronzerider and a lady of the weyrguard, and after being unable to Impress like G’tor, Gaeldim decided to follow in his mother’s footprints and become a guardian of Refuge. He was and still is an honorable man, and the Weyrwoman regards him fondly. Though there were plenty of lovely ladies in the weyrguard he knew, Gael only had eyes for one woman, and that was the headwoman’s assistant, Kami. A pretty, fiery woman, Kami wasn’t what one expected from a drudge, but that only made Gaeldim love her all the more. It took a bit of wooing, but once he won her over, their love ran deep.
Raelwyn was their second child, born three turns after her eldest sibling and brother, Kaeldim. Childhood was rather uneventful for the most part, cared for by nannies during the day while their parents were occupied by their duties, and spending time with their family at night. Another three turns passed, and Koulvi was born, followed by Seara just one turn later. For a while, it seemed as if Raelwyn’s family was finished, but after five more turns, her youngest sibling came along; her brother Gaedmir. Now at nine turns, the girl was old enough to begin chores around the weyr, and she generally found herself in the kitchen aiding her mother with small tasks. However, it was also during this time that her granddame began to spend more time around the kids when she was off-duty, more often than not coming home with her son to spend a few moments with her grandchildren.
At first, Gaeldim and Kami thought the elder woman was trying to keep her mind of the recent death of her lover, G’tor, but her true intentions were soon known. Raellen had no daughter of her own, siring only sons with the bronzerider, and her eyes were on their eldest girl to raise as she would have her own. Raelwyn, who was named after her granddame, was beginning to blossom into a young woman in her twelfth turn, and Raellen wanted to turn her into more than just a drudge. True enough, Raelwyn had her grandfather’s strong presence, her father’s solid personality, and Raellen’s determination, and it was clear to the weyrguard she could be more than just some nanny or cook.
When Raelwyn turned thirteen, her granddame began encouraging her in earnest, and it was not long until they were spending what time the girl had together. By now, Raellen was 61 turns old, and having retired from the weyrguard, she became the central figure in her granddaughter’s life. When her chores were done, Raelwyn always sought her granddame out, and the two would spend candlemarks together. Raellen was a good woman, but she was an even better guard, and one of the first things she passed along to her granddaughter was archery. The girl was meant for something great, and whether it was as a member of the guard or as a rider, she would need a way to defend herself. Beyond the bow, Raellen also allowed Raelwyn to grow strong and confident, keeping her free of the numb mindset most drudge women have. She was completely unfettered with her granddame’s care, and she quickly developed a strong, unyielding personality.
With Raellen’s upbringing, her granddaughter became what the Weyrwoman is today, and she still holds her granddame in high regards for teaching her to believe in herself. With Raellen’s encouragement, the girl stood at Impression, and watched her brother Kaeldim bond with his brown Zerith. Now K’dim, he was transferred to Haven after graduating, as the other weyr were low on brownriders. Neither disheartened nor saddened by her inability to Impress, Rael finally met her destiny at nineteen turns, when Refuge’s only queen gave birth to her only golden daughter at her last clutch; Aeriath. From the moment those whirling eyes met hers, Raelwyn has fully embraced what she always has been deep inside; a strong woman, a confident leader, and a good person.
After Impression, the queen naturally became her life, and now instead of Raellen as a mentor, Raelwyn found herself immersed in weyrling lessons and studying under the Weyrwoman herself. However, the senior queen was old, and it was not long after laying her last clutch that her rider died and she gladly went between. Though untried and green, Raelwyn and Aeriath were confident and calm, making thorough decisions from their lessons and carefully studying the record skins the Weyrwoman left behind. Though many in Refuge balked at the idea of such a young pair leading the weyr, there were few complaints that could really be made, and their first turns of leadership went well enough.
Finally, Aeriath Rose in Flight and established her dominance over Refuge. As the turns went by, the weyr learned to trust the queen and her rider, and now Raelwyn is respected for her sound judgment and firm leadership. She and Aeriath did indeed have to prove themselves, but they did that and more. The Weyrwoman is careful how she leads her Weyr, working closely with Haven to ensure the survival and safety of dragonkind. Under her charge, Refuge is safe, and she pays special attention to the weyrguard, and especially the Dragonshield. It was she, along with the help of her granddame, who truly cultivated the Shields until they blossomed into the elite unit they now are. The best of the weyrguard were chosen, trained exclusively, and given extensive survival instruction before being sent out to watch the weyr’s perimeter and explore the jungle. The Shields are her pet project, and one of the things the queenrider is very proud of.
Four turns ago, Raelwyn also began to think of a better way to communicate with the Dragonshield, finding it impractical and difficult to send messages by runner and ‘hope’ the runner found her elite guards. It was then she found another use for the little pets the weyrs found upon their arrival in the south. Though firelizards were not as intelligent as dragons, they had their ways of communicating, and they could also carry messages and find others of their kind. The queenrider quickly tested her theory, bonding to her own flit, a brown, and giving an egg to the captain of the Dragonshield, Eriol. As the little beasties matured, the Weyrwoman and Shield trained their flits, and the system worked out beautifully. All members of the Dragonshield were then given firelizard eggs, the largest that could be found in hopes of hatching higher colors, and they are used to ferry information from Shield to Weyr in a snap.
Now, Refuge is still growing under her care, and Raelwyn and Aeriath have devoted themselves to seeing their weyr prosper. Though the queen has had no golden daughter of her own, they hold to the hopes that she will soon. With the looming reports of strange weather activity, they both have a feeling they might see an increase in clutch size. Soon.
Dragon Info
Name: Aeriath
Color: Gold
Age: 9 Turns
Description: Aeriath is an absolutely gorgeous dragon and she knows it, constantly arching her neck and almost posing when she knows there are eyes on her. Of course, when are there NOT eyes on her? Her proportions are utterly perfect for her color, with sleek, leanly muscled legs and a delicately-shaped head that gives her a very feminine appearance. Her wings are large and so lovely they almost appeared carved, and her sinuous build simply turns all heads. Though not the largest queen to ever be born on Pern, this lovely gold lands right in the middle, neither bigger nor smaller. Her size is rather normal for her age, but she is happy with how well-built she is. In her mind, Ari is the most beautiful queen there is, and expects others to agree.
Her color is not exactly a true gold, but more of a sunny, bright gold that is the color of early rays in the sky. Her hide does not gleam vibrantly in the sun as the darker queens do, but rather shimmers with almost iridescence. Her light hide catches the sun in a glorious way, and with practice, the queen now knows just how to tilt her head and turn her neck just so-so, that the light will catch against her soft, bright hide and glisten like water drops. Aeriath's face is sprinkled with a lighter butter-gold, and the same pale color graces her wingsails. Along her belly and underside of her tail, a yellow so light it is almost white chases along her hide, as well as the insides of her legs.
Personality: Just as hard-willed and confident as her rider, Aeriath has several good qualities of a leader. Self-assured and strong-minded, she leads without hesitation, takes control of a situation without question. She knows that she is queen of her weyr, and as such she is to be obeyed. She generally simply surveys the goings-on around her mildly, yet when something happens she does not like, do not expect her to be silent. The gold will let anyone know very quickly that she is not pleased with something, and she expects it to be changed faster than immediately. She is a queen dragon through and through, and very imperious.
Yet like alllll queen dragons, Ari absolutely loves to be complimented. If you want to get on her good side, speak of her graceful face or her shimmering hide, or comment on her lovely proportions. The gold thinks she is simply beautiful, and will believe any comment sent her way, no matter how extravagant. She will even overlook something that displeased her if you give this dragon enough compliments. Aeriath is especially fond of compliments from bronzes, and they can win her favor quickly if they are attentative to her.
But in sharing more with her rider, this queen is a compassionate soul, and in her heart she cares deeply for Refuge and her kin. Though she does indeed think herself to be the most wonderful dragon on Pern, she loves all of her kind, from her mighty bronzes to the flighty greens. However, on the exact opposite end of the spectrum, the gold is unusually fierce for a dragon, and anything that has truly crossed her can expect to feel her great fury. Any feline or human that threatens her beloved rider or her Weyr will soon learn that Ari is not the forgiving sort.
Aeriath is stubborn and tough, yes, but she gets bored easily with her rider’s studious habits. She is not too interested in the state of the weryhall kitchens, or how many herdbeasts they are going to need to feed she and her fellow dragons this month. The queen is good with helping her rider plan things, but they have to do it quickly or Ari will lose interest before long. She loves Raelwyn more than anything, and is very affectionate, but she still can’t be held long by mundane scheduling and plans. She would rather swim or sun…or flirt with some bronzes. That is fun too.
History: The queen egg had been rocking since the beginning of the hatching. Four other smaller, mottled eggs broke open almost simultaneously, and the lower colors took the attention of the crowd. However, the little gold was not going to allow anyone to look away from her for even a second, and her shell burst with a resounding CRACK. Shaking herself to rid her body of the sticky fluids and bits of egg, the queen raised her head imperiously and surveyed the grounds.
She noted happily that everyone was now staring at her, and was pleased. Striding forward as gracefully as a new dragonet could (so, not at all) Aeriath came before the waiting girls. Her girls. Almost immediately, she knew which one would be Hers, and rushed forward on unsteady feet. She may have accidentally hurt a couple of girls in her frenzy to get to her chosen, but they would live. The little queen lifted her head to stare straight into green eyes, and began to croon lowly. Raelwyn, Mine, your Aeriath is hungry and sticky. But still beautiful, am I not?
Weyrling training was uneventful and boring to her, and though Aeriath did well under the tutelage of her Senior gold, she enjoyed the attentions of her bronze brothers more. She was immensely pleased with herself upon her first Flight, taking true control of Refuge and spending her time getting fawned over by others. The queen grew more serious over the turns, however, and soon learned that there was more to leading her weyr than bronze compliments and sunning. She let Raelwyn bounce ideas off her, and the two led Refuge as partners, and though Ari still gets bored with mundane business, she is a good queen.
Clutch: Turn 1249, Marskath by Bronze Resonth
Hatching Order: 5th
Text Color: EEB422
Mind Voice: Michelle Pfeiffer, as played here:: www.youtube.com/watch?v=OpLHBotC_Y4
What would you like to be called OOC? Thorne or FT
Recruited by: HG
Email: fire.thorne@yahoo.com
Character Info:
Name: Raelwyn
Age: 28
Gender: Female
Rank: Senior Weyrwoman
Family:
Grandfather (Father's side): G'tor (Deceased), rider of bronze Beornath
Granddame (Father's side): Raellen (68), Former Weyrguard member , now retired
Father: Gaeldim (52), Weyrguard member
Mother: Kami (49), Headwoman's Assistant
Brother: K’dim (31), rider of brown Zerith, transferred to Haven Weyr
Sister: Koulvi (25), Creche Nanny
-----Husband: Dellor (28), Hunter and forager
---------Son: Koullor (6)
---------Daughter: Doulvi (3)
---------Daughter: Kellor (2)
---------Son: Devor (Half-turn)
Sister: Seara (24), Creche Nanny
-----Husband: Biet (26) Weyrguard
---------Daughter: Bealla (5)
---------Son: Siet (4)
---------Daughter: Sietta (1)
Brother: Gaedmir (19), Weyrguard member-in-training
Appearance: Born in a working weyr, Raelwyn has a surprisingly lithe body that belies the tough upbringing she had. In appearance, she is a slim but well-built woman, and though she is far from heavy or robust, she does have enough weight on her not to be too terribly delicate. At the unimpressive height of 5’4”, the Weyrwoman has to keep a commanding presence or none will take her seriously. Her figure is not what one would call willowy, but she is built nimble, almost like a feline. Certainly, she may have subtle curves, but she isn't going to attract 'hordes' of attention for her great body, either. Her arms and legs are petite, but working for turns with her beloved gold has strengthened her limbs to the point where her appearance is deceiving. She may look lithe, but she is tough enough to care for a Queen, so do not underestimate her. It is not to say that she is muscular, because she's not, but she is stronger than you would think. However, you do not exactly have to worry about her laying you out if you tick her off…but she just might leave a bigger bruise on your jaw that you would suppose.
Despite her rather average body, there are a few things that the goldrider can claim for her beauty, and one is certainly her eyes. It has long been said by more than one person that they are indeed her best feature, and Raelwyn tends to agree. Her bright, liquid orbs stare from oval-shaped eyes, surrounded by a fringe of long lashes black as coal. Her irises are the most gorgeous, deep emerald one has ever seen, the color of a rich forest. They are clear and open, yet unfathomable and infinite. They hold a wisdom that should be beyond her turns, and her green gaze is the one thing the queenrider truly prides herself on, as far as appearances go. The Weyrwoman's face is delicate, much like the rest of her, with a gentle, small chin and petite nose. She is more cute than truly beautiful, and the only thing really striking about her are those lovely eyes. Her face is framed by long, honey-blonde hair that reaches just beneath her shoulder-blades when left loose, with a just enough of a wave to it that it curls very gently. She does like her hair. Rael ties it up into a messy bun when flying or working, but for formal events and restful times she keeps it down.
There is not an ounce of fat on the Weyrwoman, so her stomach is smooth and completely flat, a toned and fit physique earned from turns of caring for a queen. Aeriath has kept the woman on the move, so she is trim and in healthy shape. Her skin is a golden brown, since Raelwyn has spent her life outdoors, though not as tanned as some riders. She holds herself with dignity, but not really pride, so although you get the idea that she is a very confident person, one would never assume by her appearance that she is an arrogant individual. Her granddame had a very large hand in her upbringing, and Raellen would stand for no slouching in her protégé. The goldrider has her own amount of vanity, so her clothes are always meticulously clean and pressed to fall just so-so. She loves skirts, and though she cannot wear them often running around with her queen all the time, Rael has had several dresses made for Hatching Feasts and other festivities in their weyrs. Otherwise, she wears the practical clothing of a rider, though all of her garments are still clean and well-made.
For a woman who has toiled her whole life and worked hard for what she wants, the queenrider looks great, considering. She has a good complexion, really, with only a sprinkling of freckles along her nose and cheeks that do not stand out unless you are close. Her face is unmarked by scars, and there are only two noticeable ones on her whole body. One rests on her left hand, a shiny white line that runs diagonally from her middle knuckle to her wrist. She was cutting some tubers when a few errant children ran through the kitchen, and the last one rammed into her full-throttle and caused the knife to slip. The other is on her ankle, also the left side, on the inside of her leg. It is five inches long, pearly white, and ridged. Rael has never told anyone how she earned it, but she remembers it well. Naturally, she has many other small marks from candidacy and weyrling training, but they are not easily discernable.
Face Claim: Rachael Taylor
Personality: Raised in the rough-and-tumble world of the South, Raelwyn is a strong woman who is very confident in herself and her gold. As a child, the queenrider was always very sure of herself, having spent most of her time with her grandmother and learning these qualities, but after Impressing Aeriath and becoming Weyrwoman, those emotions have blossomed into a strong leadership streak. She is has grown into a secure and self-assured woman, and once she sets her mind to something, she does it. Rael is not exactly arrogant or self-righteous; she just has concrete faith in her own abilities as well as her gold's. She is also slightly stubborn, and once something is a certain way in her mind, there is no changing it. I'm sorry, did I say slightly? I meant she is voraciously stubborn and though it may not happen all the time, when an idea she wants nestles in her head there is NO getting it out. It is hard to argue with this goldrider when she really has set her heart on something, and it is generally a losing battle.
That is not to say she will not listen where the affairs of the weyr are concerned, though. Sound leadership is crucial in Refuge, with lives on the line every day and hanging on her decisions, so the Weyrwoman takes into account as many suggestions and concerns of her weyr staff to make informed calls as she can. Raelwyn understands the need for their input, and welcomes it. There are many things to consider when running the southern weyr; not only the supplies in the lower caverns of food and medical equipment, but the safety of those under her charge as well. However, she makes certain those in control are extremely skilled in the areas they oversee.
As Weyrwoman, Raelwyn is busy a great deal of the time, but she is a vivacious person who has an inviting presence. As confident and self-assured as she is, the queenrider has an outgoing personality that leaves no room for shyness or timid emotions. She and those in Refuge have grown up together, and though the weyr is too large for everyone to be close acquaintances, they are all a family. She really is what most would label a good and approachable person, and unless she has a record skin in her face, do not ever be dissuaded from sitting with her if she is alone in the weyrhall. Rael is a strong presence, however, so shy or quiet personalities will likely not find her qualities to be very welcoming. The goldrider is a social soul, and if you are bashful or quiet, you are not going to get along with her. However, she loves those in her weyr, and if a soft touch is needed, she will be.
Quick and clever from an early age, it is no wonder she Impressed gold. Raelwyn has a swift mind that processes things rapidly, and it is easy for her to commit information to memory. The queenrider hardly ever forgets a name, and she has dozens of record skins and information memorized. A very sharp mind resides in this lithe woman, and anyone around her would do best to remember it. However, she is not always logical, and just because she is very clever doesn’t mean she is always reasonable. She has a good head on her shoulders, but sometimes in sudden and intense circumstances she can leap without looking. Rael does have a tendency to respond to heated situations with her emotions first and logic second, but she has good intuition when it comes to weyr circumstances. Following her gut has never led her wrong before.
A person of strong convictions, the queenrider is very adamant and follows what she believes to be the correct course. When she feels something is right, undeniably right, Raelwyn will hold to her passion and fight for it. Even if she is disliked for it. In the light of her stubbornness, this is not too hard to believe, however. Along this same line, she also absolutely hates being wrong. Though she understands it will undeniably happen occasionally, Rael puts much work and thought into her decisions and strategy, she hates to hear that she was incorrect. It bugs her.
Adding to her list of imperfections, the Werywoman also has a temper. She does not easily get mad, for that emotion clouds judgment in a way the South cannot afford, but she does get irritated frequently and quickly. The goldrider has several odd pet peeves that grate on her nerves swiftly, such as seeing someone talk with food in their mouth or fidget when they want to speak with her. She also tends to get annoyed if something she planned does not go the way she envisioned, or gets interrupted. Since the woman takes such care in the running of Refuge, it simply irritates her to no end that something could still go wrong after she planned and strategized so carefully. Raelwyn’s true anger does not come out often at all, however. It takes quite a bit to get her mad instead of simply irritated, but if by some strange stroke of pure bad luck she does feel true fury, you are in for it. There are only three single things that can bring this about; threatening the well-being of those under her charge, hurting Aeriath, or lying to her. She hates to be lied to. These are the few things that can incense her beyond simple annoyance.
Despite her temper, though, the queenrider is a genuinely compassionate person. She hates to see others in pain, and if it is in her power to ease that ache, she will do it. The Weyrwoman has a good heart, and though she is strong and tough for Refuge, it has not diminished her inner empathy. Hate is not within her, and though irritation arises in a flash, it is forgotten quickly enough. Those whom she loves will know, because her affection is clear.
In birth and blood, Raelwyn is a natural leader, and she tends to be rather charismatic, quickly inspiring belief in her words and enthusiasm in her listeners. That is to say, when she likes, she can turn on the charm. It is an important quality of her, actually, because in order to lead, you HAVE to make people want to follow. And this Weyrwoman can make you want to follow her, believe me. The goldrider is an inspiring public speaker, and she leaves those under her voice fully confident that she will do everything she has said. This confident streak is certainly the fruit of her granddame’s labors, for the old weyrguard took the promising, unfinished weyrbrat and turned her into a pearl of a woman. She pushed and pulled, berated and loved, shoved and shamed, and polished and encouraged Rael her entire childhood until this strong person stood where a child had before.
She wants what is best for her beloved Weyrs, more than anything, and though she is concerned for both Refuge and Haven, her birth-weyr holds her undying love. Though angry at the northerners who banished her people all those turns ago, Raelwyn cannot find it in herself to stay bitter on that account. She is wonderfully content with her life. She loves her dear Aeriath more than anything, and she does what she can to keep Refuge safe and her inhabitants happy and well cared for. This is what she lives for, what her granddame raised her to do, and what makes her smile.
Excellent Qualities: Strong/Confident – Compassionate – Clever – Charismatic – Open/Friendly
Dreadful Qualities: Stubborn/Hardheaded – Impulsive – Easily Irritated – Hates to be wrong
Hobbies/Skills: Weyrbrat that she was, Raelwyn knows all the boring and domestic skills of the lower caverns ladies. Brew numbweed? Check. Mend clothing? Check. Cook? Check. So it goes, her repertoire of talents boasts all the usual dull necessities. However, unlike the other weyrbrats and drudges, the girl had a granddame in the weyrguard, and she took Rael under her wing and taught her so much more than just monotonous domestic skills. From chidlhood, Raellen taught her granddaughter how to wield a bow, and to this day the Weyrwoman is as keen a shot as any hunter. In the elder woman's eyes, every woman who would ever step out of the weyr needed some sort of defensive training, and she saw to it that Raelwyn received hers.
Pets: Tydus, brown firelizard (4 Turns)
History: Nothing is ever truly boring in the wilds of the south; anyone who was born in Refuge will know that. Down to the lowliest weyrbrat, there are stories to tell, and so it is with Raelwyn. Her father was a good, solid man born from a bronzerider and a lady of the weyrguard, and after being unable to Impress like G’tor, Gaeldim decided to follow in his mother’s footprints and become a guardian of Refuge. He was and still is an honorable man, and the Weyrwoman regards him fondly. Though there were plenty of lovely ladies in the weyrguard he knew, Gael only had eyes for one woman, and that was the headwoman’s assistant, Kami. A pretty, fiery woman, Kami wasn’t what one expected from a drudge, but that only made Gaeldim love her all the more. It took a bit of wooing, but once he won her over, their love ran deep.
Raelwyn was their second child, born three turns after her eldest sibling and brother, Kaeldim. Childhood was rather uneventful for the most part, cared for by nannies during the day while their parents were occupied by their duties, and spending time with their family at night. Another three turns passed, and Koulvi was born, followed by Seara just one turn later. For a while, it seemed as if Raelwyn’s family was finished, but after five more turns, her youngest sibling came along; her brother Gaedmir. Now at nine turns, the girl was old enough to begin chores around the weyr, and she generally found herself in the kitchen aiding her mother with small tasks. However, it was also during this time that her granddame began to spend more time around the kids when she was off-duty, more often than not coming home with her son to spend a few moments with her grandchildren.
At first, Gaeldim and Kami thought the elder woman was trying to keep her mind of the recent death of her lover, G’tor, but her true intentions were soon known. Raellen had no daughter of her own, siring only sons with the bronzerider, and her eyes were on their eldest girl to raise as she would have her own. Raelwyn, who was named after her granddame, was beginning to blossom into a young woman in her twelfth turn, and Raellen wanted to turn her into more than just a drudge. True enough, Raelwyn had her grandfather’s strong presence, her father’s solid personality, and Raellen’s determination, and it was clear to the weyrguard she could be more than just some nanny or cook.
When Raelwyn turned thirteen, her granddame began encouraging her in earnest, and it was not long until they were spending what time the girl had together. By now, Raellen was 61 turns old, and having retired from the weyrguard, she became the central figure in her granddaughter’s life. When her chores were done, Raelwyn always sought her granddame out, and the two would spend candlemarks together. Raellen was a good woman, but she was an even better guard, and one of the first things she passed along to her granddaughter was archery. The girl was meant for something great, and whether it was as a member of the guard or as a rider, she would need a way to defend herself. Beyond the bow, Raellen also allowed Raelwyn to grow strong and confident, keeping her free of the numb mindset most drudge women have. She was completely unfettered with her granddame’s care, and she quickly developed a strong, unyielding personality.
With Raellen’s upbringing, her granddaughter became what the Weyrwoman is today, and she still holds her granddame in high regards for teaching her to believe in herself. With Raellen’s encouragement, the girl stood at Impression, and watched her brother Kaeldim bond with his brown Zerith. Now K’dim, he was transferred to Haven after graduating, as the other weyr were low on brownriders. Neither disheartened nor saddened by her inability to Impress, Rael finally met her destiny at nineteen turns, when Refuge’s only queen gave birth to her only golden daughter at her last clutch; Aeriath. From the moment those whirling eyes met hers, Raelwyn has fully embraced what she always has been deep inside; a strong woman, a confident leader, and a good person.
After Impression, the queen naturally became her life, and now instead of Raellen as a mentor, Raelwyn found herself immersed in weyrling lessons and studying under the Weyrwoman herself. However, the senior queen was old, and it was not long after laying her last clutch that her rider died and she gladly went between. Though untried and green, Raelwyn and Aeriath were confident and calm, making thorough decisions from their lessons and carefully studying the record skins the Weyrwoman left behind. Though many in Refuge balked at the idea of such a young pair leading the weyr, there were few complaints that could really be made, and their first turns of leadership went well enough.
Finally, Aeriath Rose in Flight and established her dominance over Refuge. As the turns went by, the weyr learned to trust the queen and her rider, and now Raelwyn is respected for her sound judgment and firm leadership. She and Aeriath did indeed have to prove themselves, but they did that and more. The Weyrwoman is careful how she leads her Weyr, working closely with Haven to ensure the survival and safety of dragonkind. Under her charge, Refuge is safe, and she pays special attention to the weyrguard, and especially the Dragonshield. It was she, along with the help of her granddame, who truly cultivated the Shields until they blossomed into the elite unit they now are. The best of the weyrguard were chosen, trained exclusively, and given extensive survival instruction before being sent out to watch the weyr’s perimeter and explore the jungle. The Shields are her pet project, and one of the things the queenrider is very proud of.
Four turns ago, Raelwyn also began to think of a better way to communicate with the Dragonshield, finding it impractical and difficult to send messages by runner and ‘hope’ the runner found her elite guards. It was then she found another use for the little pets the weyrs found upon their arrival in the south. Though firelizards were not as intelligent as dragons, they had their ways of communicating, and they could also carry messages and find others of their kind. The queenrider quickly tested her theory, bonding to her own flit, a brown, and giving an egg to the captain of the Dragonshield, Eriol. As the little beasties matured, the Weyrwoman and Shield trained their flits, and the system worked out beautifully. All members of the Dragonshield were then given firelizard eggs, the largest that could be found in hopes of hatching higher colors, and they are used to ferry information from Shield to Weyr in a snap.
Now, Refuge is still growing under her care, and Raelwyn and Aeriath have devoted themselves to seeing their weyr prosper. Though the queen has had no golden daughter of her own, they hold to the hopes that she will soon. With the looming reports of strange weather activity, they both have a feeling they might see an increase in clutch size. Soon.
Dragon Info
Name: Aeriath
Color: Gold
Age: 9 Turns
Description: Aeriath is an absolutely gorgeous dragon and she knows it, constantly arching her neck and almost posing when she knows there are eyes on her. Of course, when are there NOT eyes on her? Her proportions are utterly perfect for her color, with sleek, leanly muscled legs and a delicately-shaped head that gives her a very feminine appearance. Her wings are large and so lovely they almost appeared carved, and her sinuous build simply turns all heads. Though not the largest queen to ever be born on Pern, this lovely gold lands right in the middle, neither bigger nor smaller. Her size is rather normal for her age, but she is happy with how well-built she is. In her mind, Ari is the most beautiful queen there is, and expects others to agree.
Her color is not exactly a true gold, but more of a sunny, bright gold that is the color of early rays in the sky. Her hide does not gleam vibrantly in the sun as the darker queens do, but rather shimmers with almost iridescence. Her light hide catches the sun in a glorious way, and with practice, the queen now knows just how to tilt her head and turn her neck just so-so, that the light will catch against her soft, bright hide and glisten like water drops. Aeriath's face is sprinkled with a lighter butter-gold, and the same pale color graces her wingsails. Along her belly and underside of her tail, a yellow so light it is almost white chases along her hide, as well as the insides of her legs.
Personality: Just as hard-willed and confident as her rider, Aeriath has several good qualities of a leader. Self-assured and strong-minded, she leads without hesitation, takes control of a situation without question. She knows that she is queen of her weyr, and as such she is to be obeyed. She generally simply surveys the goings-on around her mildly, yet when something happens she does not like, do not expect her to be silent. The gold will let anyone know very quickly that she is not pleased with something, and she expects it to be changed faster than immediately. She is a queen dragon through and through, and very imperious.
Yet like alllll queen dragons, Ari absolutely loves to be complimented. If you want to get on her good side, speak of her graceful face or her shimmering hide, or comment on her lovely proportions. The gold thinks she is simply beautiful, and will believe any comment sent her way, no matter how extravagant. She will even overlook something that displeased her if you give this dragon enough compliments. Aeriath is especially fond of compliments from bronzes, and they can win her favor quickly if they are attentative to her.
But in sharing more with her rider, this queen is a compassionate soul, and in her heart she cares deeply for Refuge and her kin. Though she does indeed think herself to be the most wonderful dragon on Pern, she loves all of her kind, from her mighty bronzes to the flighty greens. However, on the exact opposite end of the spectrum, the gold is unusually fierce for a dragon, and anything that has truly crossed her can expect to feel her great fury. Any feline or human that threatens her beloved rider or her Weyr will soon learn that Ari is not the forgiving sort.
Aeriath is stubborn and tough, yes, but she gets bored easily with her rider’s studious habits. She is not too interested in the state of the weryhall kitchens, or how many herdbeasts they are going to need to feed she and her fellow dragons this month. The queen is good with helping her rider plan things, but they have to do it quickly or Ari will lose interest before long. She loves Raelwyn more than anything, and is very affectionate, but she still can’t be held long by mundane scheduling and plans. She would rather swim or sun…or flirt with some bronzes. That is fun too.
History: The queen egg had been rocking since the beginning of the hatching. Four other smaller, mottled eggs broke open almost simultaneously, and the lower colors took the attention of the crowd. However, the little gold was not going to allow anyone to look away from her for even a second, and her shell burst with a resounding CRACK. Shaking herself to rid her body of the sticky fluids and bits of egg, the queen raised her head imperiously and surveyed the grounds.
She noted happily that everyone was now staring at her, and was pleased. Striding forward as gracefully as a new dragonet could (so, not at all) Aeriath came before the waiting girls. Her girls. Almost immediately, she knew which one would be Hers, and rushed forward on unsteady feet. She may have accidentally hurt a couple of girls in her frenzy to get to her chosen, but they would live. The little queen lifted her head to stare straight into green eyes, and began to croon lowly. Raelwyn, Mine, your Aeriath is hungry and sticky. But still beautiful, am I not?
Weyrling training was uneventful and boring to her, and though Aeriath did well under the tutelage of her Senior gold, she enjoyed the attentions of her bronze brothers more. She was immensely pleased with herself upon her first Flight, taking true control of Refuge and spending her time getting fawned over by others. The queen grew more serious over the turns, however, and soon learned that there was more to leading her weyr than bronze compliments and sunning. She let Raelwyn bounce ideas off her, and the two led Refuge as partners, and though Ari still gets bored with mundane business, she is a good queen.
Clutch: Turn 1249, Marskath by Bronze Resonth
Hatching Order: 5th
Text Color: EEB422
Mind Voice: Michelle Pfeiffer, as played here:: www.youtube.com/watch?v=OpLHBotC_Y4
YAY