The Rider
Name: W'chir (Whelochir)
Age: 22
Nameday: 3555.01.28
Sex: Male
Sexual Orientation: ????
Weyr: High Reaches Weyr
Rider Rank: Wingrider
Previous Rank/Craft: Journeyman Fighter (Mercenary/Guard)
Physical Description: W'chir stands a solid 6'5" and is best summed up as broad. He might not tower over some like others in High Reaches Weyr, but there's no doubt he's a formidable and large man relative to the majority of Pern. He has broad shoulders, chest, and large arms and legs, each covered in muscle. His dark brown hair is medium in length, falling down to his shoulders--but it's often braided and tied up, as well as shaved in various parts per the Fighterhall traditions.
Personality: W'chir is, perhaps, everything a rider should be. Much of the things which intrigued him in the Fighterhall mimics what he has learned to be in becoming a dragonrider. Getting to be a hero, and help to save the day, and keep the people of Pern safe, is something he absolutely adores. While he is more at risk now that he's facing Thread than when he guarded various Holds and Halls, or escorted someone of importance from one place to another, W'chir is utterly fearless. He would rather go down saving someone than play it safe while another suffers the consequence. This can mean he gets himself into trouble; he is known to take risks without thinking things through. He can put himself or his dragon at risk if he thinks the result might better one of his wingmates or someone he feels the need to protect. Only too quickly can his fearlessness turn into foolishness.
He is certainly a protective man, and s more than happy to do whatever he can to ensure someone (or many someone's) are safe. This means he is very good around littles and Uncles and Aunties, or those who might need some looking after. Strangers can trust that W'chir means them no harm, and it's true; he would never dream of hurting someone and to those who know him best, he's a veritable gentle giant.
But that gentleness stops when hard choices have to be made, or when faced with someone he doesn't believe deserves his mercy or forgiveness. When set on a task, or given orders to follow, W'chir tends to follow them to the letter. He sees the world through black-and-white and rarely allows room for change. It isn't that he follows without thought, but there is a chain of command, and W'chir knows (or at least believes) that his superiors have their best interest in heart. Perhaps he's foolish in believing so, but he is a product of his society to the letter. Surely, a dragon would not Impress someone who was not worthy of the name just as surely he believed his Masters in the Fighters Hall were there to use their Might for Right. He is a follower, and doesn't often stop to question whether or not what he's been told to do is the right course of action, or that someone might have ulterior motives.
While this can make him dependable--he follows orders and falls into line easily. A wingmate might never find him shirking duty, and if ever they need aid, they know to simply say the word. But he is also known to be a bit naive concerning how the the world works. He was never thought to think critically, and this has meant he is easily used. This is less a problem in the Weyr, especially with his dragon at his side--but his naivety can cause him problems. Worse, even when wronged, W'chir can usually talk himself out of holding a grudge or mistrust. Depending on the infraction in question, or the situation, he might well continue to get burned, believing full well that good-will-conquer-all.
It's very clear that W'chir has much to learn.
Positive Trait List Dependable, Fearless, Protective
Negative Trait List Follower, Naive, Risk-Taker
History: Whelochir was born and raised in Redoubt Hold. He comes from a long line of proud mercenaries and guards, with many of his family following the craft. While he wasn't raised in the Fighters Hall, with his mother a Journeyman Healer stationed long-term at Redoubt Hold and his father a Master Guard at the very Hall itself, he grew up quite familiar with the Hall and its people.
Being a middle child of a brood of seven meant Whelochir learned quickly to fall into line. His temperament meant he made an ideal second-in-command when enforcing his families and Hold rules; but his dependability meant he was often tapped to keep an eye on his younger siblings to get them out of trouble.
Overall, his family life was quiet and not particularly far from ordinary. His parents loved their family but were firm; with his father a Master at the local Hall, and his older siblings eventually following suit, Whelochir grew comfortable at the Hall. His father made sure his children knew how to handle a sword and defend themselves well before it came time to pick up a craft. While they would have supported Whelochir's desire to choose any craft, there was an unspoken expectation that he would follow in the family craft.
Thankfully, Whelochir didn't mind and at Turn 11 was officially brought on as an apprentice for the Fighterhall.
With a focus and hope to become a seasoned guard at one of Pern's major Holds, Whelochir dove happily into his studies. He was an eager student, and wanted nothing more than to please his Masters and get ahead in life. At the end of the day, he wanted to be a hero and save the day, to really help Pern and its people.
At Turn 17, he was given his chance. Thread returned, much to the surprise of the world. While the mountains of Redoubt meant many in the Hold and Hall were safe, the losses were still severe -- and surrounding Holds and Halls weren't near as lucky. It was there that Whelochir was sent out with other groups to help rebuild, cleanup, and guard any families and goods from being raided or stolen during the days of chaos and mourning.
At Turn 19 he was finally allowed to walk the tables, becoming a Journeyman. His first assignment was over at High Reaches Hold, helping to keep an eye on some of the borders closest to Nabol, and generally do whatever task his superiors gave him. It wasnt necessarily glory filled -- but Wehlochir was always known to be a reliable grunt; not every thread in a tapestry was noticed, but each individual thread was needed to make the piece whole.
Not quite a Turn later, he was approached by a blue rider who informed him he'd been found on Search for Zenobiath's clutch. It practically knocked him flat. He almost turned them down, but the idea of guarding and protecting Pern in another way appealed to him. Even if he didn't Impress it would be quite an experience and he always had a place as a Journeyman. So, he accepted, and was shortly brought to High Reaches Weyr.
Much to his surprise, he found a sleek dragonet moving right toward him about half-way through the affair. His destiny, his new destiny, had finally been found--and W'chir was forever a changed man.
Other: Whenia 55 - Journeyman Healer at Redoubt Hold
Alochirus 59 - Master Guard at the Fighterhall near Redoubt
Alowhen 30 - Journeyman Guard
Whenirus 28 - Journeyman Sworddancer
Chenia - 24 Journeyman Mercenary
Whelochir 22 - Journeyman Guard
Alonirus 19 - Apprentice Pitfighter - Twin of Alonia
Alonia 19 - Apprentice Healer - Twin of Alonirus
Whenia 15 - Apprentice Sworddancer
The Dragon
Dragon Name: Natchnith
]Origin of Name: Within the Marwari horse breed was a strain known as the Natchni, believed by local people to be "born to dance". Decorated in silver, jewels, and bells, these horses were trained to perform complex prancing and leaping movements at many ceremonies, including weddings. Although the Natchni strain is extinct today, horses trained in those skills are still in demand in rural India.
Inspiration: Marwari
The Marwari or Malani is a rare breed of horse from the Marwar (or Jodhpur) region of Rajasthan, in north-west India. It is closely related to the Kathiawari breed of the Kathiawar peninsula of Gujarat, with which it shares an unusual inward-curving shape of the ears. It is found in all equine colours, including piebald and skewbald. It is a hardy riding horse; it may exhibit a natural ambling gait.
The Rathores, traditional rulers of the Marwar region of western India, were the first to breed the Marwari. Beginning in the 12th century, they espoused strict breeding that promoted purity and hardiness. Used throughout history as a cavalry horse by the people of the Marwar region, the Marwari was noted for its loyalty and bravery in battle. The breed deteriorated in the 1930s, when poor management practices resulted in a reduction of the breeding stock, but today has regained some of its popularity. The Marwari is used for light draught and agricultural work, as well as riding and packing. In 1995, a breed society was formed for the Marwari horse in India. The exportation of Marwari horses was banned for decades, but between 2000 and 2006, a small number of exports were allowed. Since 2008, visas allowing temporary travel of Marwari horses outside India have been available in small numbers. Though they are rare they are becoming more popular outside of India due to their unique looks.
Personality: Natchnith is a dragon built for battle, though one might not believe it. While this dragon is on the smaller and more dainty size for their color, they were hatched to fight. In terms of Threadfall, Natchnith is not afraid to throw his everything at the battle--no matter the result. In terms of the fight itself, Natchnith is a brave dragon, unafraid of injury or scarring, and ready to support (or lead) their wingmates during the fray. No matter how poorly conditions deterorate; no matter what goes wrong, this dragon will not shirk duty.
Additionally, Natchnith is a loyal dragon, and while his rider will always come first, High Reaches and the Weyr will come second. Be it wingmate, clutchmate, or weyrmate this dragon is very proud of his Weyr and expects other dragons to follow suit. Of course, Natchnith's loyalty isn't reserved just for the pride of High Reaches, but for friends, lovers, and those nearest to his hearts. Once a friend, always a friend, as far as Natchnith is concerned--Faranth forbid anyone ever betray this dragon's trust.
Unfortunately, Natchnith's loyal views aren't shared with everyone in the Weyr; nor are all the dragon's at High Reaches as gung-ho and eager to show up for Drills and throw themselves blindly into battle. Natchnith has no patience for such fools, and can be quite demanding that others fall into line and follow suit. This dragon cannot stand those who are untrue, and will not hesitate to boss, if not downright bully, others into changing their worldview. This dragon can be a bit demanding--even of his own rider. Paired with a natural finicky nature, Natchnith can be near impossible to please until everything is just so. From demanding only the choicest cuts of meat, to desiring riding leathers dyed a certain shade, or W'chir to dress just so for a Gather, Natchnith is known to be quite opinionated--and bossy. If this dragon isn't careful, he/she will find him/herself with few friends, indeed.
Thankfully, there is a natural grace and charm within Natchnith that might soften the offense of his uglier sides. This dragon can be as graceful in the air as he/she can be on land; and the turn of phrase he/she uses will help sooth over any slights or insults--hopefully. Rest assured, Natchnith is more than happy to deflect and distract when tensions start to rise; he/she is well aware they are a lovely sight to behold, and have confidence enough to try to use it to his best advantage. This can turn them into a bit of a show-off, stretching wings out here, or preening as a certain bronze or brown trots by. Worse, this desire to prance and dance, especially while on wing, can cause distraction but can also pull them well out of formation. Yes, for all Natchnith loves battle, it's clear this dragon also wants to fight the good fight with a little style. If W'chir doesn't keep Natchnith focused, particularly when there are quiet moments during Fall, this dragon might well allow style and flash get in the way of duty--and inadvertantly cause needless injury to themselves or their wingmates.
Positive Traits: Brave, Loyal, Elegant
Negative Traits: Finicky, Demanding, Showy
NPC Egg:] Small
Adult Size: 66'
physical Attributes: Natchnith is a slim dragon and will never be large for its color. Natchnith has a long neck, long tail, and delicate boned frame, at least compared to other dragons of its color. Thankfully, Natchnith doesn't mind. He knows he makes an elegant dispay while in the air. Thankfully, Natchnith is hardy for all that he is trim; his stamina is surprising and while he might not be able to take a battering of Pern's strongest winds easily, he knows how to fly with grace. Perhaps most noticeable about Natchnith is his headknobs and how they are known to curve in.
Additional Notes: Natchnith will always be on the trim side, and tends to be a light eater. He doesn't undereat, mind, but is particular about what types of food he's in at the moment. Only the choicest of cuts will do, mind.
When it comes to flights, Natchnith is a natural performer. He will love to take to the skies and will have almost as much fun simply showing off as he will be on the outcome. Natchnith will certainly take wing often though rest assured, he is not desperate and will be particular about whom he twines neck and tails with. Not just anyone will do, thank you, and if you are so chosen, you had better well know exactly who you are signing yourself up to be with.
Impression Effect: Natchnith's elegance will certainly give W'chir a boost when it comes to the looks department. He might have been comely to start, but Natchnith will ensure he has that oomph that separates a rider from any ordinary Pernese. Additionally, Natchnith will give W'chir new direction and focus; they are to save Pern, and as many people, be it wingmates, or the people of Pern, as possible.
Why Me? Natchnith chose W'chir because they were perfect for one another. This dragon could never see itself with anyone who wasn't as heroic as it, and W'chir checks all the boxes: good, brave, dependable, protective. On the surface, this pair is a natural fit, with one another complimenting and highlighting the others heroic personas. They are both fearless and brave, and neither will find the other objecting to drills or embracing the duty of dragonriding. Natchnith's loyalty will air well with W'chir's earnest desire to do and be good, allowing them to rise up to be a well-regarded fighting pair.
But dig a little deeper, and they will find that they complement one another's weaknesses as well. You can guarantee that W'chir's protective nature, as well as his dependability, mean he will keep Natchnith's flash-and-pizazz in check. He won't let the dragon get needlessly injured, so the risk, while not lost entirely, is at least mitigated. Both dragon and rider will be prone to injury during their rest days--when W'chir might be prone to taking more risks and Natchnith interested in showing off his skills. Where W'chir can be naïve, or unable to see when he might be used, you can bet Natchnith won't allow him to be hurt twice. For while W'chir can give multiple chances, Natchnith is fussy enough--and demanding enough--to object.
