Hello loves! While I haven't been writing, I have been working on updating some issues that have been hanging around on the layout! The Character change box is now at the bottom of the page, beside the up/down arrows! Green and Gold dragon flight dates have been shifted to the bottom of the page, where the (useless!) discord widget was located. Where the dragon flights were in the header, is now replaced by a Monthly Event box! This will be updated at the start of each month, with a fun mini-event you can take part in, if you want to! Thistle!
09.Jan.12, 12:33 PM
All right, here's what I have so far. I admit I am a bit fuzzy on the game's canon and history since I didn't get to look at it for too long before getting a chance to work on an application so some areas may not mesh correctly.
The writing sample and face claim will be attached to the final application.
Pronounced: Vah-leer-e-in
Nicknames: Val, Vale
Main Rank: Journeyman Harper
Other Rank: N/A
Place of Birth: Plains Hold
Age/Date of Birth: 24, Mid Summer 206 AL
Weyrmate: N/A
Threadfall Theory: He believes in what he teaches; that Thread will fall again.
Approved Special Features: None.
Face Claim:
Hair: Dark brown hair with naturally highlighted strands of chestnut complements his eyes though fingers running through the shaggy short locks out of annoyance keep the style looking like he perpetually rolled out of bed after a fitful night’s rest.
Height: Valerian stands at a modest 5’9.
General Appearance: Full lips give the illusion of a pout but given his view on those he has to contend with daily, they are usually purposely set in such a manner. Despite his long legs, he is well proportioned and does not appear gangly while his frame is lean with just enough muscle definition to draw wandering eyes when the right clothes are worn—or left on the floor beside him. Another feature that often draws the eye is his long fingers that move over harp and gitar with a delicate ease.
Dressing Style: His fashion sense follows the trends of the time but he doesn’t go out of his way to have the most luxurious of fabrics or richest of colours as comfort is his top priority.
Valerian fancies himself an observer and speaker of truths, though the latter isn’t always met with great enthusiasm. As a Harper, he’s expected to give his opinion on matters thanks to the craft’s historical and current knowledge of people and events but there are other times where a soothing word and a gently spun truth are needed and Valerian has yet to master such a trait. In his younger years he held in his true opinions and would smile through the stupidity of others but over time and circumstances, he’s lost the reason to. Due to his new love of saying what’s on his mind, Valerian enjoys singing songs filled with lessons he believes the Holder he’s entertaining is lacking in but given the sensitive ego of such men, the journeyman Harper is often sent from the Hold with more bruises and threats than he arrived with. That is not something, however, to deter him and if the next occasion he entertains for is in need of a reminder or a good mocking, then that is indeed what his patrons will receive.
However, it is because of his keen eyes and ability to quickly assess a person that his bluntness and antics are normally overlooked by his peers. Most also know his true desire lays in composition and having to deal with bratty farm kids as he makes his travels is punishment enough.
Normally he is laidback, wanting nothing more than to lounge in the sun to pick idly at his gitar or to nap but given the way he was brought to the Weyr as a Stolen candidate, Valerian will take every chance he gets to remind anyone within hearing range that he came against his will. That isn’t to say he hates dragons or resents them due to some of the riders because what man alive didn’t fancy himself a candidate for a Hatching when they were a boy? It’s his determination to make sure no one gets close enough to him to truly know him that keeps any shred of enthusiasm or interest in anything other than his performance hidden away to the point where he comes off aloof and lacking in friends.
While he does enjoy the performance aspect of his craft and sometimes even the mingling with large crowds, Valerian detests archiving, holding lessons, and having to deal with children. At least with archiving he’s left alone and it’s generally quiet.
Likes:
[i]Dusk until dawn: Valerian loves the night but also takes a quiet pleasure in watching the sun set, finding the colours majestic and serene. While he does enjoy napping on a sunny day, he much prefers to be active at night, enjoying the sounds that only occur when the sun is set. It doesn't hurt that children are usually in bed and he can have a moment's peace without having to deal with them.
Composing songs : While he enjoys all the musical aspects of the craft, writing his own songs, even about mundane routines or scenery for only his own enjoyment, is his favourite part and soothes him.
Klah: He simply enjoys the cinnamon taste and jolt of energy to start the day with.
Dislikes:
Everyone: Valerian jokes that his list of things he hates is topped with “dragonriders, those without dragons, and kids” since the general category of “everyone” doesn’t accurately convey the level of detestation each inspires. After several beats of the shocked silence that statement brings about he explains the reasoning as dragonriders are often full of themselves, those without are useless and get in his way, and kids are just annoying and loud. Depending on his mood he will either let his audience believe he’s joking by smiling or saying it in earnest.
Cold weather: There is something unpleasant about layering and still having a frozen nose. It also hinders his ability to play instruments as his dexterity is slowed.
Manual Labour: As a son of a farmer, Valerian knows all about working from sunrise to sunset and absolutely hates it. He goes out of his way to avoid such tasks ever since leaving to Harper Hall.
Habits/Mannerisms:
He usually wears a bored or neutral expression but Valerian does find amusement in another's displeasure and misfortune so a small smile may be cracked. His own schooling has taught him to try to keep that under wraps though the indifference was something they couldn't get out of him.
As napping is one of his favourite pastimes, Valerian has a habit of sneaking off to nap under a tree, preferably in a quiet and unpopular location so he won't be disturbed. In a way, this works out best for everyone as it means they avoid his scrutiny and keen observations.
Strengths:
His ability to endure regardless of the situation he finds himself in would be what Valerian considers his strength—after being told his sharp tongue is not considered a strength or something to be proud of. A hidden strength not many would know about or even believe until they were a recipient of is his dedication to a friend. While he is all for protecting number one, himself, if someone he considers a friend needs his help, he's likely to give it regardless of what is asked of him; though he would prefer if it was something quick and simple.
Weaknesses:
While Valerian would have one believe he doesn’t have a weakness, his constant truth-saying and occasional laziness would likely hinder him the most.
[i]Rank: None
Father: Quinlan
Rank: Journeyman Farmer
Siblings: An older brother (Zayra) and two older sisters (Seraphina and Saphira)
Past Lovers/Partners: None
Current Lovers/Partners: None
Children: None
Background Story:
207: Valerian is born to Quinlan and Kezia; their fourth child.
208-211: His mother and sisters take turns tending to him between their own daily tasks.
212: Begins lessons in both reading and writing as well as the farmcraft.
213-215: A hate of rising so early to work in the fields grows while an interest in what the Harper sings and discusses matures.
216: One day has enough and announces he wants to go to Harper Hall to train and live.
216-220: Studies at Harper Hall as an Apprentice, learning all areas of the craft to find the best suited area. Has some troubles maintaining the smile and suck-up attitude needed.
221: Wonders if he’s in over his head with how much responsibility Harpers have but watching a group of Journeymen practice together one night revives his love of singing and performing.
222: Finally becomes a Journeyman.
222-223: Continues to dabble in various areas of the craft but, at his Master’s insistence, spends the most time on the ways of teaching.
224: Ignores the advancements of the baker’s daughter until he finally breaks her heart with the harsh truth he’s not interested. Has yet to find someone that does interest him.
224-226: Shortly thereafter he is sent to various smaller holds to provide essential teachings. Knows it is a punishment for running his mouth one too many times about his peers.
227: Valerian is recalled and given the option to travel or select a Hold looking for a Harper. He chooses to go to River Bend.
227-230: Remains at the Hold until the wanderlust kicks in again. Begs his leave and returns to Harper Hall.
231: Arrives at Katila Weyr as a Stolen candidate.
Craft Rank: Journeyman
Years In Craft: 14
Specialty: Gossip and fact gathering, composing, and recalling historical and current facts
Crafting Details: Valerian joined Harper Hall at ten, after realizing farming was not for him. He spent several Turns studying in all areas of the craft not so much out of a love of learning or a need to keep busy but it was encouraged he should know enough in each field to assist others in the future. Not wanting to return to a life of seeding, Valerian forced out smiles and kept up his studies.
Once his studies were complete, Valerian spent time travelling to teach the young kids of minor holds and halls, somewhat as a punishment for his increasing laziness and sharp tongue as the stupidity of his peers couldn’t always be smiled at and brushed away. When that torment was over, he was given the option to move to a Hold and he found himself at River Bend for three Turns before removing himself and returning to Harper Hall.
It was on a quiet night, lightly strumming his gitar under his favourite tree not too far from the Hall that Valerian was kidnapped and brought to Katila Weyr.
The writing sample and face claim will be attached to the final application.
Character Name
First Name: ValerianPronounced: Vah-leer-e-in
Nicknames: Val, Vale
Main Rank: Journeyman Harper
Other Rank: N/A
Place of Birth: Plains Hold
Age/Date of Birth: 24, Mid Summer 206 AL
Weyrmate: N/A
Threadfall Theory: He believes in what he teaches; that Thread will fall again.
Approved Special Features: None.
Face Claim:
[i]Looks:
Eyes: Eyes of vivid forest green often dispel the belief that Valerian is lazy, bored, or inattentive thanks to their sharp and oftentimes penetrating stare that never seems to miss a thing. They would likely be considered his strongest feature and what draws people in, whether it be as he sings or tells a tale or out of a longing for his private attentions.Hair: Dark brown hair with naturally highlighted strands of chestnut complements his eyes though fingers running through the shaggy short locks out of annoyance keep the style looking like he perpetually rolled out of bed after a fitful night’s rest.
Height: Valerian stands at a modest 5’9.
General Appearance: Full lips give the illusion of a pout but given his view on those he has to contend with daily, they are usually purposely set in such a manner. Despite his long legs, he is well proportioned and does not appear gangly while his frame is lean with just enough muscle definition to draw wandering eyes when the right clothes are worn—or left on the floor beside him. Another feature that often draws the eye is his long fingers that move over harp and gitar with a delicate ease.
Dressing Style: His fashion sense follows the trends of the time but he doesn’t go out of his way to have the most luxurious of fabrics or richest of colours as comfort is his top priority.
[i]Personality:
General Character Traits: Valerian fancies himself an observer and speaker of truths, though the latter isn’t always met with great enthusiasm. As a Harper, he’s expected to give his opinion on matters thanks to the craft’s historical and current knowledge of people and events but there are other times where a soothing word and a gently spun truth are needed and Valerian has yet to master such a trait. In his younger years he held in his true opinions and would smile through the stupidity of others but over time and circumstances, he’s lost the reason to. Due to his new love of saying what’s on his mind, Valerian enjoys singing songs filled with lessons he believes the Holder he’s entertaining is lacking in but given the sensitive ego of such men, the journeyman Harper is often sent from the Hold with more bruises and threats than he arrived with. That is not something, however, to deter him and if the next occasion he entertains for is in need of a reminder or a good mocking, then that is indeed what his patrons will receive.
However, it is because of his keen eyes and ability to quickly assess a person that his bluntness and antics are normally overlooked by his peers. Most also know his true desire lays in composition and having to deal with bratty farm kids as he makes his travels is punishment enough.
Normally he is laidback, wanting nothing more than to lounge in the sun to pick idly at his gitar or to nap but given the way he was brought to the Weyr as a Stolen candidate, Valerian will take every chance he gets to remind anyone within hearing range that he came against his will. That isn’t to say he hates dragons or resents them due to some of the riders because what man alive didn’t fancy himself a candidate for a Hatching when they were a boy? It’s his determination to make sure no one gets close enough to him to truly know him that keeps any shred of enthusiasm or interest in anything other than his performance hidden away to the point where he comes off aloof and lacking in friends.
While he does enjoy the performance aspect of his craft and sometimes even the mingling with large crowds, Valerian detests archiving, holding lessons, and having to deal with children. At least with archiving he’s left alone and it’s generally quiet.
Likes:
[i]Dusk until dawn: Valerian loves the night but also takes a quiet pleasure in watching the sun set, finding the colours majestic and serene. While he does enjoy napping on a sunny day, he much prefers to be active at night, enjoying the sounds that only occur when the sun is set. It doesn't hurt that children are usually in bed and he can have a moment's peace without having to deal with them.
Composing songs : While he enjoys all the musical aspects of the craft, writing his own songs, even about mundane routines or scenery for only his own enjoyment, is his favourite part and soothes him.
Klah: He simply enjoys the cinnamon taste and jolt of energy to start the day with.
Dislikes:
Everyone: Valerian jokes that his list of things he hates is topped with “dragonriders, those without dragons, and kids” since the general category of “everyone” doesn’t accurately convey the level of detestation each inspires. After several beats of the shocked silence that statement brings about he explains the reasoning as dragonriders are often full of themselves, those without are useless and get in his way, and kids are just annoying and loud. Depending on his mood he will either let his audience believe he’s joking by smiling or saying it in earnest.
Cold weather: There is something unpleasant about layering and still having a frozen nose. It also hinders his ability to play instruments as his dexterity is slowed.
Manual Labour: As a son of a farmer, Valerian knows all about working from sunrise to sunset and absolutely hates it. He goes out of his way to avoid such tasks ever since leaving to Harper Hall.
Habits/Mannerisms:
He usually wears a bored or neutral expression but Valerian does find amusement in another's displeasure and misfortune so a small smile may be cracked. His own schooling has taught him to try to keep that under wraps though the indifference was something they couldn't get out of him.
As napping is one of his favourite pastimes, Valerian has a habit of sneaking off to nap under a tree, preferably in a quiet and unpopular location so he won't be disturbed. In a way, this works out best for everyone as it means they avoid his scrutiny and keen observations.
Strengths:
His ability to endure regardless of the situation he finds himself in would be what Valerian considers his strength—after being told his sharp tongue is not considered a strength or something to be proud of. A hidden strength not many would know about or even believe until they were a recipient of is his dedication to a friend. While he is all for protecting number one, himself, if someone he considers a friend needs his help, he's likely to give it regardless of what is asked of him; though he would prefer if it was something quick and simple.
Weaknesses:
While Valerian would have one believe he doesn’t have a weakness, his constant truth-saying and occasional laziness would likely hinder him the most.
Personal History
Mother: Kezia[i]Rank: None
Father: Quinlan
Rank: Journeyman Farmer
Siblings: An older brother (Zayra) and two older sisters (Seraphina and Saphira)
Past Lovers/Partners: None
Current Lovers/Partners: None
Children: None
Background Story:
207: Valerian is born to Quinlan and Kezia; their fourth child.
208-211: His mother and sisters take turns tending to him between their own daily tasks.
212: Begins lessons in both reading and writing as well as the farmcraft.
213-215: A hate of rising so early to work in the fields grows while an interest in what the Harper sings and discusses matures.
216: One day has enough and announces he wants to go to Harper Hall to train and live.
216-220: Studies at Harper Hall as an Apprentice, learning all areas of the craft to find the best suited area. Has some troubles maintaining the smile and suck-up attitude needed.
221: Wonders if he’s in over his head with how much responsibility Harpers have but watching a group of Journeymen practice together one night revives his love of singing and performing.
222: Finally becomes a Journeyman.
222-223: Continues to dabble in various areas of the craft but, at his Master’s insistence, spends the most time on the ways of teaching.
224: Ignores the advancements of the baker’s daughter until he finally breaks her heart with the harsh truth he’s not interested. Has yet to find someone that does interest him.
224-226: Shortly thereafter he is sent to various smaller holds to provide essential teachings. Knows it is a punishment for running his mouth one too many times about his peers.
227: Valerian is recalled and given the option to travel or select a Hold looking for a Harper. He chooses to go to River Bend.
227-230: Remains at the Hold until the wanderlust kicks in again. Begs his leave and returns to Harper Hall.
231: Arrives at Katila Weyr as a Stolen candidate.
[i]Crafter Education
Craft: HarperCraft Rank: Journeyman
Years In Craft: 14
Specialty: Gossip and fact gathering, composing, and recalling historical and current facts
Crafting Details: Valerian joined Harper Hall at ten, after realizing farming was not for him. He spent several Turns studying in all areas of the craft not so much out of a love of learning or a need to keep busy but it was encouraged he should know enough in each field to assist others in the future. Not wanting to return to a life of seeding, Valerian forced out smiles and kept up his studies.
Once his studies were complete, Valerian spent time travelling to teach the young kids of minor holds and halls, somewhat as a punishment for his increasing laziness and sharp tongue as the stupidity of his peers couldn’t always be smiled at and brushed away. When that torment was over, he was given the option to move to a Hold and he found himself at River Bend for three Turns before removing himself and returning to Harper Hall.
It was on a quiet night, lightly strumming his gitar under his favourite tree not too far from the Hall that Valerian was kidnapped and brought to Katila Weyr.
