The Sim

What Is Dragonriders of Pern?
Dragonriders of Pern is a beloved science fantasy series created by Anne McCaffrey, set on the distant planet Pern. It spans multiple books and generations, exploring the lives of dragonriders and their powerful dragon companions, the traditions of Weyrs, and the perils of defending Pern from a destructive menace known as Threadfall. In this universe, dragons are bioengineered creatures with the remarkable ability to teleport (or “go between”) and emit fire to burn Thread from the skies, protecting the people and land of Pern from devastation.

How Do Dragonriders and Dragons Work Together?
When young dragon candidates are selected to stand at a Hatching, they undergo a life-changing process called Impression, where they form a unique telepathic bond with a newly hatched dragon. This connection is more than just communication; it's a melding of minds that allows riders and dragons to share thoughts, emotions, and vivid images with one another. Over time, the bond grows deeper, creating a partnership of profound loyalty and trust. Dragonriders and their dragons train together to prepare for Threadfall, and the bond between them is so strong that the dragon usually dies upon the loss of their rider, and vice versa.

Why This Setting?
In the River Cove Weyr setting, dragons are the front line in the fight against Threadfall, the lethal, spore-like substance that rains down periodically from the sky. When Thread touches organic matter, it consumes it instantly, threatening all life on Pern. Dragons and their riders work together to burn Thread from the skies, protecting their world from destruction. In this alternative timeline for the series, the technological marvel known as AIVAS (a sentient AI) was unable to completely stop Thread from returning, but managed to extend the interval, giving the people of Pern a temporary reprieve. Now, in the year 3531 AL (After Landing), River Cove Weyr prepares to meet a new Pass of Threadfall, facing old dangers with renewed strength and the traditions of their ancestors.

What Year Is River Cove Weyr Set In?
River Cove Weyr is set in the year 3531 AL (After Landing), an alternate history from the main series. Here, the 10th Pass is unique; while AIVAS did delay Thread, it could not eliminate it entirely. This creates an extended interval between Threadfalls, allowing Pern’s people to regroup and adapt. Yet with the resumption of Threadfall, dragonriders and Weyrs are once again called to defend Pern, rekindling the ancient fight that defines their heritage.

What Dragons Are Acceptable?
River Cove Weyr follows the traditional colour spectrum established in the Dragonriders of Pern universe. The colours and roles include:

Gold Dragons: Female and the largest, gold dragons are the queens of the Weyrs. As the only dragons capable of laying eggs, they play a vital role in continuing the dragon lines. Golds are bonded to female riders.

Bronze Dragons: Large male dragons, bronze dragons are the primary mates for golds. With their strength and size, they often hold leadership roles and are usually paired with high-ranking riders.

Brown Dragons: Medium-sized male dragons, browns are versatile and reliable in Threadfall, though less commonly chosen for leadership roles.

Blue Dragons: Smaller males, blues are fast and agile, excelling in close-quarters Thread fighting. Though they are less common in mating flights with queens, blue dragons offer invaluable support.

Green Dragons: Small and agile female dragons, greens make up a large portion of a Weyr’s fighting force. They are infertile but bring agility and rapid response capability to the fight.

Do You Accept Female Blue Riders?
Absolutely! River Cove Weyr values diversity in all forms and welcomes female blue riders. Our inclusive setting embraces cultural and ethnic diversity, gender equality, and is committed to being an LGBTQ-friendly simulation, both in-character and out. This flexibility aligns with Pern's changing traditions as it adapts to the demands of the new Pass and the evolving culture within the Weyrs.