Wyldr Weyrs

[Maira]

General Weyrling Restrictions

Weyrlings are to remain celibate for the entire first Turn of their dragonet's life. This is because the young dragons cannot handle the strong emotions and because the weyrlings have not yet learned to block their potentially troubling thoughts from their lifemate.

Weyrlings are NOT allowed to drink to the point of inebriation and are probably better off not drinking at all. Ask the senior Weyrlingmaster if you doubt me. Be prepared for harsh punishment for any activity your weyrling may engage in that has the potential to harm (especially mentally) his/her dragonet.

Strong romantic attachments are not allowed. This type of relationship is asking for trouble and will cause intense scrutiny from your Weyrling Masters. Once again, harsh punishment will be meted out to offenders who distress their dragonets.

Your weyrling's life for the next full Turn will center almost entirely around their dragonet. The first thing they will hear upon rising in the morning (or earlier) is protestations of hunger. Bathing, feeding and oiling your dragon will be the FIRST thing the weyrling does in the morning and IN THAT ORDER! A newly hatched dragonet is not going to wait while you saunter down to the Dining Hall and eat a three course meal. Think of them as very young and completely helpless pets for which your character is now entirely responsible. That's exactly what they are.

If there are any questions about this, please feel free to ask. Your BOD is happy to elucidate.

First Month

During this month, dragonets do little more than eat, sleep, and grow! Weyrlings have to make sure that they do not overly cosset the dragonets - no carrying them around - and weyrlings have to make sure that the dragonets get some exercise every day.

Weyrlings also have to make sure that the dragonets do not overexert themselves. Swimming in the hot springs is encouraged after the first sevenday.

Sevenday 1

- Dragonets Hatch!

- Bathing and oiling the young dragons. (Learn to watch for peeling/stretched hide)

- Lessons on feeding. (Not letting dragonets overeat)

- Basic health. (Overeating, biting the tongue, wrenched wings, overstretched muscles, and other injuries as they occur)

- Dealing with dragon-induced emotions.

- Learning not to strain the dragon/rider bond. (This includes learning how to "vent" emotions, and learning to live with another being in your mind. Each pair will have their own way of dealing with one another.)

- Weyrlings shown the table(s) at which they will sit during the main meals and special functions in the dining hall.

- Weyrlings are assigned a group "name." This is helpful when there is more than one clutch of weyrlings being trained.

Bathing, oiling, and feeding - (in that order!) - will be done every day for the first five months. The reason for the order of events is simple: After they are fed, dragonets fall asleep. It is very hard to thoroughly bathe and oil something that outmasses you!

This is not to say that spot oiling and cleaning cannot be done after your dragonet has fed, (some of them are awfully messy!), it's just that the thorough scrubbing and oiling that all dragonets require must be done prior to feeding.

Sevenday 2 - Bathing and oiling the young dragons.

- Basic health. (Lessons on dragonhealing conducted by the dragonhealer in the Weyr.)

- Resumption of chores. (All those fun things you did as a Candidate!)

Sevenday 3 - Continuing lessons on dragon health.

- Physical training. (Sparring and knife fighting lessons are available for those who are interested. Knife fighting is done with wooden practice blades, which are also used if two riders need to "settle their differences," and cannot resolve the matter any other way.)

Some form of physical fitness will be expected of all weyrlings; the instructor will repeat over and over than dragonfolk do not draw live steel for any reason other than to defend their lives. Dragons die when their riders die. This is the most important lesson to be learned at this time.

Sevenday 4 - Activities continue as in the weeks before. (Caring for the dragonets, attending the Weyrlingmaster's lessons, and doing assigned chores.)

Second Month

Dragonets continue to eat, sleep, and grow, though they are starting to show more and more interest in their surroundings, and their mental voice is already starting to mature.

- Human first aid, taught by the weyrhealer. (Cuts, burns, breaks, etc.)

- Weyrlings are assigned to their first set of trios. (These trios will be assigned a specific chore, to get them used to working in team situations. Weyrlings will be assigned to new sets of trios several times; goldriders are included at this point, though this will change later in the training.)

Third Month

The dragonets have reached 15% of their total size by the beginning of this month. Daily exercise is now mandatory, though duration is often short, due to the sleeping habits of the dragonets. Weyrlings are repeatedly told that unless they encourage them, their dragonets would probably never exercise at all, (dragons tend to be lazy!).

All lessons this month are handled with the weyrlings in trios, with adjustments to the trio assignments for personality, strengths and weaknesses handled by the Weyrlingmaster.

- Begin firestone drills!

- Selecting and judging firestone ore. (A miner is brought in for this lesson, lasting a sevenday.)

- The Dragon Toss. (Weyrlings are trained how to throw and catch full bags of firestone. Beginning tosses are done with bags full of something other than firestone, and at short distances,less than a quarter dragonlength. Note: Dragons cannot fly yet. The Dragon Toss is practiced from the ground.)

- Sizing of firestone. (Learning what is considered "bite-sized.")

- Breaking stone down to size. (A miner is present.)

- Bagging of firestone. (Learning how much stone is needed to make a "full" bag.)

- Question and Answer drills. (Quizzes on what's been learned.)

The "Dragon Toss" takes time and skill to perfect. It is not busywork -- in Threadfall, it's vital to be able to either toss a bag of firestone to a rider in need... or to catch one, when you've run empty. In Threadfall, this could mean your life! Though our characters are now in an Interval, they know that preserving these skills could mean life or death for the generations to come.

Ladies especially should be aware: Gender will not spare you from this training! Your upper arm strength will be developed. All riders of fighting dragons are expected to be able to toss a full bag of firestone a full dragonlength, (the size of an adult green dragon.) This might be hard for the female dragonriders, but no allowance will be made. They'll be worked extra time, if necessary, to develop their strength to the point where they can manage this feat. (If they can't, female Candidates will have to be restricted to golden eggs only.)

Even though gold dragons never chew firestone, the goldrider weyrlings are included in this training as part of their preparation as future weyrwomen. The Dragon Toss also helps build stamina and reflexes, as well as creating the team spirit that is vital to a healthy, well-run Weyr.

Special Note: Drilling will take place no matter what the weather is. (The only exception is if the elements are hazardous to the health of the weyrlings, i.e., lightning storms, etc.) Since Thread is flown in all kinds of weather, the weyrlings have to get used to being out in all kinds of weather.

Even though Thread drowns in heavy rain and freezes in snow and sleet, some can get through, so light wings are flown during Threadfall even in the worst conditions.

Fourth Month

Dragonets are now spending more time awake and are curious about everything. Weyrlings have to be on their toes, as the dragonets are inclined to get into mischief at this time.

- Trios are reassigned. (Different groupings from before. Goldriders are not included in these trios.)

- Goldriders begin training under the gold Wingleader.

- Ground Drills begin! Basic Maneuvers. (Marching together, pacing, turns, etc. Basic close-order drill.)

The "Ground Drills" are another important part of Weyrling Training. In the air, adult dragons and their riders will need to perform complex, intricate maneuvers in flight. The dragons and dragonriders will need to know how to fly in pattern - how to make simultaneous maneuvers - and how to follow orders instantly.

The Ground Drill teaches weyrlings these maneuvers... even before their dragons are old enough to fly. Each person stands in formation, and begins to learn the traditional flight orders, (shouted, and/or given by hand/arm signal).

These drills will start out as a couple hours each day. Goldriders are not included in the group, though they will learn Basic Maneuvers from the Weyrlingmaster in individual training at this time.

Fifth Month

Dragonets have reached 25% of their total size by the start of this month. Though they are still eating every day, the amount of time spent sleeping has decreased drastically.

- Ground Drills, Beginning Maneuvers. (Begin learning crossing maneuvers, pausing in "flight" to avoid collisions, and other maneuvers that simulate "flight" situations. Three hours every afternoon are spent on Ground Drills. Goldriders are not included.)

- Goldriders continue training with the gold Wingleader, assisting her and performing whatever chores she assigns you.

- Making tools. (Crafters are brought in to teach the weyrlings how to make the various tools that are necessary for the care of their dragonets. Scrubbing brushes, first aid kits, etc.)

- Goldriders begin flame-thrower training. (How to maintain, clean, repair, fill, use, change tanks, etc.)

Sixth Month

Dragonets are now expected to link to their partners during the full duration of Ground Drill practice. The dragonets are slowing down in their eating, only requiring feeding every other day.

Exercises and swimming are required now, though these are handled sometime during the morning hours and are not expected to be of lengthy duration, (usually less than half an hour.)

- Ground Drills, Advanced Maneuvers. (more complicated, maneuvers are added: The switch in positions due to wind shear, approximations of "stacked" wings, special maneuvers for the Left Wing, Right Wing, and Forward/Center Wing, [the standard flight pattern for a Fall], etc.)

- Weyrlingmaster tosses "Thread" among the marching weyrlings. (The "Thread" is made up of ropes that have fresh dye applied to them. This dye will mark the weyrling if it hits him, showing him to have been "Threaded.")

- Goldriders continue with all other lessons and practices, as well as continuing to work with the gold Wingleader.

Those who show leadership qualities are tapped for special training; those who need extra help are tapped for additional training. All orders are given by hand/arm signal during this month, and the Ground Drills last for four hours every afternoon.

Seventh Month

Dragonet exercise is increased to one full hour every day. Dragonets will reach 40% of their full size during this month.

- Trios are grouped into sets of nine weyrlings, "Nines" assuming the clutch is of sufficient size to do so. (Ground Drills start over with Beginning Maneuvers.)

- Goldriders spend one hour a day on Ground Drills. (The rest of their time is spent learning all aspects of Weyr Management.)

Eighth Month

Dragonets are now feeding every third day, consuming one or two wherries or a small herdbeast/runnerbeast. Swimming exercises continue, and an additional hour is spent having the dragonets walk about the Weyr, strengthening their leg muscles and backs.

- Ground Drills, Advanced Maneuvers. (Including special training for those who need it.)

- Goldriders spend one hour a day on Ground Drills. (Rest of afternoons with the gold Wingleader.)

- "Nines" are broken down into new trios. (Orders are now passed, not through voice or signals, but through dragonets only. The dragon/rider link is very important.)

- Ground Drills are decreased to three hours a day. (Once every sevenday, randomly chosen by B'ren, the weyrlings will "fly" a full "Fall" -- six hours!)

Ninth Month

Dragonets are eating only every three or four days now. Exercise for the dragonets is increased to four hours a day, split between swimming and walking, with special exercises begun to strengthen wing muscles.

No flights are allowed!

Weyrlings, take care: Your dragonets will be wanting to try out their wings, but they're not ready for it yet. If they try too soon, they could cause damage to their wings and muscles.

- Ground Drills continue. (Orders are being relayed through the dragonets. 'B'ren' tells 'Dath', 'Dath' tells the dragonets, your dragonet tells you, the rider. This is how it would go in a Fall, so this communication is essential.)

- Goldriders continue one hour with the Ground Drills. (Otherwise working under the gold Wingleader.)

- Trios grouped into "Nines." (Different groupings than the previous time.)

Tenth Month

Dragonets are only eating once every three to five days, depending on their personal metabolism. (This is close to an adult dragon's eating schedule.) Swimming practice is sharply curtailed, (too many youngsters in the bathing pool).

Walking exercises and wing exercises are continued, but watched carefully, since the dragonets are very tempted to try flying.

- Ground Drills continue. (Orders are given by hand/arm signal and through the dragonets, training the weyrling to be alert to all forms of taking orders from their future Wingleader.)

- Threadfall Games begin! (The weyrlings are grouped into teams, as evenly as possible, and begin ground versions of the Summer and Winter Games.)

"Thread" is thrown and "flamed" or dodged, scores and "kills" are tallied. Normal Drills will continue, but once every sevenday these Games will take place. The Games last for six full hours, replicating a Threadfall.

While greenriders will not - in actuality - ever fly a full six hours, the riders do Drill for the full time. This allows them to increase their personal endurance, and to learn all the various aspects of a Fall, since they could be flying any portion of it.

(Greenriders typically fly either the first or last half of a Fall, with the Wingleader alternating who flies what each Fall.)

Eleventh Month

Dragonets are now spending the entire day awake, and participating in all aspects of their riders' training. It's an interesting sight: The Training Ground lined with watching dragonets, curiously peering down at their riders.

- Learn how to make riding straps. (A tanner is brought induring this part of the training. The proper method of making, maintaining, and repairing riding straps is gone over and over again - with an emphasis on what can happen if the weyrlings do not learn properly.)

- Lectures on watching for fatigue in your dragon.

(Watching for muscle strain and how to recognize it.)
- Ground Drills continue.

- Songs and Teachings about being lost between. (The dangers of overstraining a dragonet and midair collisions are brought out to prevent overeager riders.)

Twelfth Month - First Turn

Dragonets have now reached 70% of their adult size. Weyrlings are constantly reminded during this month of the dangers of overstraining a young dragon!

- First flights! (This always starts with the smaller dragons, working from green, blue, brown, bronze, to gold. All flights start from ground level takeoffs. The Weyrlingmaster gets each pair ready, checking riding straps and position. The flight itself consists of little more than an awkward launch, a few flaps for lift, and a slow glide back to the earth.)

After every pair of weyrlings has had their first flight, a day of rest is declared, and a Feast is held to celebrate!

- Flight training continues at a light pace. (Each weyrling pair will have one flight per day, taking off from the floor of the bowl. Flights never last longer than fifteen minutes.)

- Later - flights from third-tier weyrs.

- Diving Maneuvers. (The weyrlings are taught to begin riding thermals. The flights are increased to a half-hour duration.)

Thirteenth Month (Turn and 1 month)

All weyrlings are assigned to their very own weyr! No longer do they have to live in the Weyrling Barracks. They're all now able to safely fly anywhere within the Weyr itself.

At this point in their training, the weyrlings are encouraged to mix among the Fighting Pairs during evening meals, listening in on conversations and asking questions about anything.

They are also allowed to join more experienced riders on recreational flights about the immediate Weyr area. This allows Wingleaders and Wingriders to get to know the weyrlings and start judging them as potential wingmates.

- Weyrlings and dragonets are taught to hunt and fish outside the Weyr.

- New trios are assigned.

- The Aerial Drills begin. (Flight versions of all those Ground Drills.)

- Aerial Recognition. (Learning to recognize landmarks on dragonback while on hunting trips outside the Weyr.)

- Goldrider has special training with Weyrlingmaster for Queen's Wing Aerial Maneuvers. (The gold Wingleader may join in to round out a "trio" for the weyrling goldrider.)

- All weyrlings, including goldriders, assigned to "Elevator Duty." (Flying weyrfolk up to various tiers and levels in the Weyr.)

Fourteenth Month (Turn and 2 months)

Weyrlings are now allowed to join the Weyrlingmaster, (and other experienced riders), on visits to the Holds that are within straight flight distance from the Weyr. All such trips must be cleared by the Weyrlingmaster.

No trips between are allowed! This has not been taught yet, and attempting to do so would - in all likelihood - prove fatal!

- Aerial Drills continue.

- Begin training in the chewing of firestone! (This takes one very long day as the Weyrlingmaster trains each pair individually.)

The dragonet is started out on a soft rock, (not firestone), so that the weyrling can get used to the horrendous amount of noise the process takes, and the dragonet can learn to "think" of his other stomach and to not bite his tongue.

A quick lesson on how to regurgitate the "digested" stone is also passed on by the Weyrlingmaster's dragon. (Many weyrfolk will find excuses to be elsewhere on this and subsequent days, as the noise and later stench can be a bit much.)

When the Weyrlingmaster feels that a pair is ready for the next step, he hands the weyrling a small bag of low-grade firestone. The Weyrlingmaster reminds the weyrling to stand upwind and to the side, as the moment of flaming is somewhat unpredictable at first.

The dragonet will only be able to produce a small flame from the low-grade ore, but he will be able to flame. Once all the dragonets have produced a small controlled flame, (not just the accidental belch), the Weyrlingmaster will hand each pair the real thing: High-grade firestone.

Practice targets are set up along one wall of the Training Ground, and the next sevenday will be spent learning how to aim, and how much firestone is needed for each individual dragonet.

- Goldriders practice with flame-thrower while sitting the queen. (This allows the dragonet to get used to the smell and proximity of flame, and allows the rider to practice aiming near her dragonet.)

The gold dragonet is prompted by her rider to encourage her clutchmates during firestone practice, as the support of a gold is as boost to the ego of any dragon, and is very good for morale.

Fifteenth Month (Turn and 3 months)

This month is the most dangerous in the training, and is eagerly anticipated and dreaded by weyrling and Weyrlingmaster alike. This can be even more dangerous in winter, as snow and ice obscures many familiar landmarks.

- Learn to go between! (This segment of training is handled by the Weyrlingmaster only... and only with one weyrling at a time.)

Each pair takes off with the Weyrlingmaster, whose dragon feeds a visual image directly to the dragonet for the first couple of trips. (The weyrling is more like a passenger on these first trips.)

Once the weyrling and dragonet are "used to" between, the weyrling will be allowed to direct his dragonet between to one of the locations that has been so carefully drilled into the weyrling's head over the past two months of Aerial Recognition.

After the pair has gone between to the chosen location, "shadowed" by the Weyrlingmaster, they are then instructed to return to the Weyr. The Weyrlingmaster then orders them to land and takes up the next pair. By the end of the sevenday, all weyrlings of the clutch will have gone between!

- Practice going between and learning to take visuals from other dragons. (Unsupervised visits to halls and holds are allowed, with the Weyrlingmaster's permission. Any trips out of the Weyr's area of protection must be accompanied by an older rider.)

- Aerial Drills, going between, and Aerial Recognition continue. (By the end of this month, all weyrlings will be practiced at flaming from their dragon while in the air.)

Sixteenth Month (Turn and four months

The weyrlings will be taken on trips all over the immediate area, to acquaint them with the Holds and Halls with which they'll need to be familiar.

By the end of the month, weyrlings should be confident with recognition of all the Holds in their Weyr's area of protection, as well as all major locations they might need to travel to at a moment's notice.

- Aerial Drills combined with going between. (At this point, collisions become a real danger, as the pairs learn to travel between in groups.)

- Weyrlings are assigned to messenger service, and will often be sent to locations to pick up packages and passengers. (This continues their training in recognition of major locations as well as increases their confidence in their own skills. Many a Weyrlingmaster ages over this month.)

Seventeenth Month (Turn and five months)

The dragonets are nearing their adult size.

- Aerial Drills culminate in Threadfall Games! (All members of the weyrling clutch participate, even the goldrider.)

Eighteenth Month (Turn and a half)

Dragonets have reached their full size. Graduation Day!

Though thread rarely falls here, the same precautions will still be taken. No weyrling is ever graduated just because his dragon is old enough. If a weyrling has not satisfactorily completed his/her training... he/she will remain a weyrling until he/she has.

- Weyrlings are assigned to the Weyrling Wing. (The "Weyrling Wing" is the wing for not-yet-adult dragons. The Wingleader is the Weyrlingmaster, and until their second Turn, no dragon/rider pair will be assigned to a fighting wing.)

- The goldrider is assigned to the Queen's Wing.

Twenty-fourth Month (The Second Turn)

By their second Turn, dragons are mature enough to breed. No longer will they be called dragonets - they are now full-grown dragons!

Greens and Golds will begin to rise for their maiden mating flights somewhere between their second Turn and the end of their third.

- Weyrlings are assigned to a fighting wing. (The decision is made by the Wingleader council, in consultation with the Weyrlingmaster.)

- The goldrider becomes a full-fledged Wingrider.

Used with permission by Morvelan Weyr.

[Maira]

Weyrling Information Pack
The Weyrling Master will greet each new pair, teaching the weyrling how to feed their dragonet. As the Hatching continues, he will monitor each new pair, pointing out signs of satiety, and passing on the method of denying an overly-greedy dragonet.

Once all the dragonets are fed, the Weyrlings will be allowed a candlemark to show off their new life mates to their admiring families and friends. Then, the group will be taken to the Weyrling Barracks, assigned cots and wallows according to dragon colour impressed, and the pairs will go through the new process of oiling and bedding down the drowsy hatchlings.

Once all the infant dragons are safely asleep, the new Weyrlings may join the festivities of the Hatching Feast, for a few candlemarks. "Lights out" comes early for them, however, as dragonets wake with the dawn. Besides, most are made groggy by both the empathic link with their sleeping soul mates, and by the sheer emotional drain of the day. There are few protesters, when the Weyrling Master declares it time for a return to the Barracks and bed.

Day One:
Dawn brings the first of many unwelcome wake-up calls. The Weyrlings are given their first lessons in butchering carcasses for the needs of an infant dragon. Just as all riders must know how to create their own riding straps from a tanned hide, all Weyrlings need to know how to cut food for their own dragons.

As the dragonets breakfast, the Weyrling Master, and the Master Dragon healer check over the younglings. After the meat is consumed and all the dragonets are vetted, the pairs are led through bathing, oiling, and if necessary, mucking out, for their soul mates.

Only then are the human halves of the pairs allowed to bathe and breakfast. A short period after breakfast is devoted to making cots and cleaning the Barracks. After that, the first of an 18 month period of lectures and hands-on lessons begins.

Typical Daily Schedule:
Dawn: 6 to 7th hour Wake, feed, bathe, oil dragonet
7th to 8th hour: Bathe, breakfast
Candlemark after breakfast: Care for human/dragonet bedding, clean quarters
9th to 12th hour: Lessons
12th to 13th hour: Midday meal
13th to 14th hour: Bonding break (This is when a Weyrling spends the hour in their area with their mate. The Weyrling may do what they wish as long as their dragon is with them.)
14th to 17th hour: Lessons
17th to 18th hour: rest break
18th to 20th hour: Feed, bathe, and oil dragonets
20th to 22nd hour: Evening meal, study, relaxation
22nd hour: Lights out

Weyrling Lessons Plan
Hatching to One Month
Size: Approx. 3 ft tall at shoulder

Care and feeding of dragonets
Oiling, and the diagnosis and treatment of common hide problems
The empathic bond-- utilization, effects on both life mates, cautions, and advantages
Draconic anatomy. *
Basic Draconic first aid, including the treatment of digestive and elimination problems.
Weyr etiquette and customs**
Duties of Riders***
Pernese history and basic politics****
Recognition of rank knots and badges****
* Taught by Dragon healer
** Taught by Weyrwoman
*** Taught by Weyrleader
**** Taught by Weyr Archivist

Suggestion for IC play:- Concerns about young dragon. Washing, oiling troublesome dragonet.Threads that emphasis the strength and needs of the young dragon. Please note, interaction with the general Weyr will be limited. The newly Impressed pair will be required to stay within visual range of each other at the outside at all times for at least this month. Possible IC material in over-eating or preventing over eating. Many of the lectures will involve people coming to them and food will be brought to them rather than them leaving their life mate for the first couple of sevendays. Bear this in mind when RP-ing.

Month Two
Approx. twenty percent of adult size

First involvement with Threadfall assisting healers (to get them used to possible draconic reaction to scores etc.)
First Basic Ground Drills
Politics, history, geography and weather patterns of Fort territories
Initial Firestone training - How to select, size, bag Firestone tailored to a dragons capabilities
Action in Fall -maintaining Firestone supplies for the Dragon wings.
Frequent testing of knowledge through tests, written, oral and practical
Suggestion for IC play :- During a Fall - with Healers - as ground crew. Lessons as designated by the AWLM(if there is one). Possible tests on dragon knowledge. Revising this knowledge for an exam in a study group. Heavy emphasis on the dragon and rider pairing still. The dragonets will be clumsy but there will be trips to the Lake for washing etc

Third Month
Approx. forty percent of adult size

Continuing education regarding politics, history, geography and weather patterns of associated Northern territories.
Working with the Dragon-Rider bond. Trust exercises. Blindfold - utilisation of each others eyes.
Continued ground drills with more complex formations and development of understanding of a three dimensional flight
Swimming lessons for the dragonets to begin strengthening of wing muscles early
Communication in Fall. Mental Protocols, physical fall backs.
Firestone pick up from dragonback (on ground but practicing the ability so Fall riders do not have to land to "refuel")
Frequent testing of knowledge through tests, written, oral and practical
Suggestion for IC play:- Swimming is popular. The AWLM may well come up with different "trust" exercises but the blindfold one is a good one to RP. Possible Fall experience. Hand signals etc

Fourth Month
Approx fifty percent of adult size

Politics, history, geography and weather patterns of other Weyrs
Fitted for flight jackets and gloves
Introduction to leather craft to create personalized riding straps and harness
Continued Dragon-Rider bond exercises
Ground drills continue and increase in time spent and complexity
Continued Swimming
Frequent practical testing across all topics
Review meeting with the Weyrlingmaster/Assistant Weyrling Master on progress
Suggestion for IC play:- Swimming is an activity not available in a lot of Weyrs so we make the most of it! If relevant you may RP your interview.

Fifth Month
Approx fifty five percent of adult size

Continued exploration of social structures and Weyr territories.
Required that first set of personal riding straps and harness completed to appropriate standards
Detailed Threadfall notation and theory of charts. Reading and Interpretation
Lectures on Threadfall - different composition, and pattern
Dragonrider Etiquette and public behaviour - lectures by Junior Weyrwomen
Complex Ground drills and starts of Wing work
Continued Dragon-rider bond work, reaching out to include other riders
Problem solving - individual and group work.
Frequent testing.
Suggestion for IC play:- Problem solving task may be assigned by your WLMA. The connecting with other Riders in a wing is a good one to RP as it helps links between writers as well.

Sixth Month
Approx sixty percent of adult size

Continued exploration of social structures and Weyr territories.
First flights - just a short glide, then farther every day
Strengthening of wing muscles resulting in flight within the Weyr
Maintenance of harness, straps and thread fighting equipment if relevant.
Advance interpretation and creation of Threadfall Charts
Begin working on recognition points and principles of visualisation.
Ground drills - flight sequences run internally by impression rank of Weyrlings for that session (assessing leadership potential)
Individual and group problem solving
Self defence training introduction. Rules of Honour Duels and associated responsibilities (For male brown, bronze and some select blue riders only).
Female riders and green riders begin errand running for wing leaders, Weyrleader, Weyrwoman, or whoever the WLM assigns them.
Goldriders will be working more with Weyrwoman at this time.
Selection/ assigned personal Weyr by the head woman and Weyrwoman. They do not move in for another month.
Suggestion for IC play:- Selecting a Weyr - earmarking it as it were. A Weyrling run ground drill. A Self defence class. Possible problem solving exercise. Of course. First time off the ground riding your dragon.

Seventh Month
Approx sixty five percent of adult size

Continued exploration of social structures and Weyr territories.
Able to draw up, interpret and translate a Thread Fall chart into practicalities
Draconic First Aid - Emphasis on Fall related injuries and general condition (especially overflying) - lectures from dragon healers
Flying straight errands within close Weyr territory begin
More complex activities with the Dragon-Rider bond
Dragonrider Ethics - Introduction - Problem solving in this regard
Self defence training for browns and bronzes, select blue riders (males only) begins. Introduction to blade worked
Female riders and green riders will continue errand running for wing leaders, weyrleader, weyrwoman, or whoever the WLM assigns them.
Goldriders will be working more with Weyr women at this time.
Complex ground drills with a minimum of external commands
Continual testing as appropriate
Suggestion for IC play:- Errands provide more scope for..individual expression of flight (hence the lectures on strains). Self defence classes. Similar to previous months

Eighth Month
Approx seventy percent of adult size

Reviews of political, social and Weyr territories - including assessments.
Review maintenance of Thread fighting equipment and riding straps - assessments
Beginning first aid for humans - emphasis on Fall injuries and Thread scores by Weyr Healers.
Ground drills, but lessened as many subjects being assessed in this month.
Flights around the Weyr to strengthen dragon and human muscles. More frequent errands.
Hand to Hand combat, wrestling and more complex blade work (male brown, bronze, and select blue riders).
Female riders and green riders will report to Weyrling Master during this time for dutys.
Goldriders will report first to Weyrling Master then to assigned Jr. or Sr. Weyrwoman.
Review exams covering all areas.
Following the exams an interview with the Weyrling Master on progress to date.
If the Weyrling Master is satisfied with the progress of the Weyrling, dragonet and rider are allowed to move from the Weyrling Barracks to a private weyr.
Two days to transfer to their assigned personal Weyr.
Suggestion for IC play:- Exam anxiety. Entering own Weyr feeling like a proper Dragonrider. Interview with WM or WLMA. Potential for RP similar to previous months.

Ninth Month
Approx seventy five percent of adult size

Continued exploration of social structures and Weyr territories.
Flight exercises increased . Flying styles differentiated. Sprint and stamina flights worked on
Ground drills continued but lessen in proportion to flying and concentrate on translating ground sequences to the air
Advanced Dragon-Rider bond work.
Problem Solving, practical, theoretical and ethical
Self defence training, sparring in pairs.
Continued co-ordinate work, with maps and review of Threadfall charts
Suggestion for IC play:-similar options to before. Possibly discovering their dragons strengths and weaknesses in flight and in the wing.

Tenth Month
Approx eighty percent of adult size

Comprehensive exams on Pern-wide politics, history, geography and weather patterns.
First training Wing flights outside the Weyr
Learn to hunt with their dragons
Advanced Self defence techniques (Male brown, bronze, and select blue riders)
Female riders and green riders will report to Weyrling Master during this time for dutys.
Goldriders will report to assigned Jr. or Sr. Weyrwoman.
Begin drills on recognition points around the Weyr
First jumps between one on one with the Weyrling Master and Assistants
Suggestion for IC play:- Jumping between is probably the big one to RP here and hunting with ones dragon. Potential loss of a fellow Weyrling

Eleventh Month
Approx eighty five percent of adult size

Formation flying drills begin. Ground drills rarely used unless working through a new formation
Learn the Firestone refueling in air technique
Advanced Dragon-Rider bond exercises - in Flight and Wing context
Problem Solving at all levels
Self defence training continues(Male brown, bronze, and select blue riders)
Female riders and green riders will report to Weyrling Master during this time for dutys.
Goldriders will report to assigned Jr. or Sr. Weyrwoman.
Assigned Holds to fly to and return between to the Weyr
Suggestion for IC play:- Again, between is a good one. The Firestone In flight refueling is good for comedy as well as any of the standard RP possibilities.

Twelfth Month
Approx eighty five percent of adult size

Formation flying drills continue and become more complex
Dragons learn to chew Firestone
Flame first aid, then control and flame variation
Flaming whilst in flight and in wing formation
Continue training on between
Principles of Sweep Riding - shadowing Sweepriders
Personal interview with the Weyrling Master or WLMA on progress to date
Bronze and Brown riders- Lessons begin in proper behaviour for their rank, how to handle the lower colours, and the does and don'ts of their ranks (trained by selected wingleader or wingsecond, most likely a bronze rider, possibly even the Weyrleader or weyrsecond)
Blue and green riders- Lessons in proper behaviour for their rank, what is expected of them, how to respond and obey higher ranking riders, and the different crimes and punishments. (Trained by Weyrling Master, wing third or possibly a selected blue rider)
All Weyrlings start flight lessons preparing for mating flights (trained by WLM, AWLM, or WiL)
Suggestion for IC play:- Firestone. Feeding the dragon Firestone and the inevitable problems that occur as a result of inexperience. Too much, too little. no control etc.A sweep ride has potential to be interesting in the North. Interview RP if necessary.

Thirteenth and Fourteenth Months
Approx ninety percent of adult size

Flying practice becoming more varied and longer sustained, gradually moving time aloft up to Fall length
Some drill practices take place with the existing Wings to integrate them and learn from their experience
Emergency rescue training - falling rope drills, bronze and queens learning how to catch an out of control dragon.
Hand to hand sparring extended to group co-operation(Male brown, bronze, and select blue riders)
Female riders and green riders will report to Weyrling Master during this time for dutys.
Goldriders will report to assigned Jr. or Sr. Weyrwoman.
Flaming in Wing formation
Between training continues, beginning recognition point drills to other Weyrs, Halls and Holds
Bronze and Brown riders- Lessons continue in proper behaviour for their rank, how to handle the lower colours, and the does and don'ts of their ranks, Also added is tips for higher rank achievement (trained by selected wingleader or wingsecond, most likely a bronze rider, possibly even the Weyrleader or weyrsecond)
Blue and green riders- Lessons continue in proper behaviour for their rank, what is expected of them, how to respond and obey higher ranking riders, and the different crimes and punishments, Also added is possible ranks said colours can achieve and tips to do so (Trained by Weyrling Master, wing third or possibly a selected blue rider)
All Weyrlings continue flight lessons preparing for mating flights (trained by WLM, AWLM, or WiL)
Suggestion for IC play:- Emergency rescue drills have a lot of potential to RP. The opportunity to mix with existing riders also is a good RP area.

Fifteenth and Sixteenth Months
Approx ninety five percent of adult size

Continued Fighting Wing formation drills
Rescue manoeuvres practice
Continue training on between, introducing skip betweening for fall and deep betweening for scores etc
Groups assigned Sweep duties
Fitted with Thread fighting gear
Bronze and brown riders- test in special classes
Blue and green riders- test in special classes
Mating flight classes start to wind down
Conferences with Weyrling Master and Wingseconds begin, pre-fall preparation and strategies
Suggestion for IC playIC:-Getting Fall gear would be a turning point for many, an introduction to a reality as a dragonrider. Group Sweep duties would also hold a good RP potential

Seventeenth and Eighteenth Months
Approx ninety five to hundred percent of adult size

Begin flying the trailing edge of Threadfall. Limited flaming of live Thread
Perform Firestone refueling directly to fighting Dragonrider
Continued inclusion in pre-Fall and post-Fall briefing and de-briefing
Mating flight tests
Final Assessments - to determine graduation based on results and WM and WMLA report to the Weyrleaders.
Suggestion for IC play:- Ahh the anxiety of exams and first Thread flying..!

Graduation
If the Weyrleaders permit the new dragonriders are assigned to a lower level and as they competence and experience increases they are moved to the higher first Fall contact wings. If they do not pass they are held in Weyrling classes until they are deemed ready and not a danger to other riders.



Taken from http://www.darkfort.co.uk/fort.php?p=weyrpack.html