__NOTOC__ 
<div style="column-count:2;-moz-column-count:2;-webkit-column-count:2">
==25/26 Calendar==
{| class="wikitable"
|- style="font-weight:bold; text-align:center; vertical-align:bottom;"
! colspan="3" | DCW Calendar
|- style="text-align:center; vertical-align:bottom;"
| Real Life
| Pern Month
| All Events
|-
| July
| style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle;" | Month 10
| style="vertical-align:bottom; font-weight:bold; background-color:#3c78d8; color:#FFF;" | DCW - Jossenth's Hatching
|-
| August
| style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle;" | Month 10 Month 11
| style="vertical-align:bottom;" |
|-
| September
| style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle;" | Month 11
| style="vertical-align:bottom;" |
|-
| October
| style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle;" | Month 12 
| style="vertical-align:bottom; background-color:#86abe6; color:#FFF;" | DCW - Elleth's Flight
|-
| November
| style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle;" | Month 12 Month 13
| style="vertical-align:bottom; background-color:#86abe6; color:#FFF;" | DCW - Elleth Clutches (M13)
|-
| December
| style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle;" | Month 13
| style="vertical-align:bottom;" |
|- style="font-weight:bold; text-align:center;"
| colspan="3" | 2026
|-
| January
| style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle;" | Month 1
| style="vertical-align:bottom; font-weight:bold; background-color:#86abe6; color:#FFF;" | DCW - Elleth's Hatching
|-
| February
| style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle;" | Month 1 Month 2
| style="vertical-align:bottom; background-color:#1b54af; color:#FFF;" | DCW - Panitath's Flight (M2)
|-
| March
| style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle;" | Month 2
| style="vertical-align:bottom;" |
|-
| April
| style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle;" | Month 3
| style="vertical-align:bottom; background-color:#1b54af; color:#FFF;" | DCW - Panitath Clutches
|-
| May
| style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle;" | Month 3 Month 4
| style="vertical-align:bottom; font-weight:bold; background-color:#1b54af; color:#FFF;" | DCW - Panitath's Hatching (m4)
|-
| June
| style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle;" | Month 4
| style="vertical-align:bottom; background-color:#3C78D8; color:#FFF;" | DCW - Jossenth's Flight
|-
| July
| style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle;" | Month 5
| style="vertical-align:bottom; background-color:#3C78D8; color:#FFF;" | DCW - Jossenth Clutch
|-
| August
| style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle;" | Month 5 Month 6
| style="vertical-align:bottom;" |
|-
| September
| style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle;" | Month 6
| style="vertical-align:bottom; background-color:#3C78D8; color:#FFF;" | DCW - Jossenth Hatching (NPC)
|-
| October
| style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle;" | Month 7
| style="vertical-align:bottom;" |
|-
| November
| style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle;" | Month 7 Month 8
| style="vertical-align:bottom;" |
|-
| December
| style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle;" | Month 8
| style="vertical-align:bottom;" |
|}
==Badge==
[[File:DCWbadge.png|100px]]
==History==
Dolphin Cove Weyr was founded in 1195 when the survivors of Thayan Peak Weyrhold reopened an abandoned Weyrhold. Thayan Peak was the last Weyrhold founded in the South, thirty-eight turns after the Ninth Pass ended, and was one of the four remaining Weyrholds on Pern. It handled a small portion of land that wasn't truly enough to support a full Weyrhold, but the area was rich in herbs and other necessities, and the dragonriders knew they would make up in trade what they lacked in land to grow crops and raise livestock. For centuries the riders made their living in this manner, and as the other Weyrholds began to dwindle in population, they took their share of riders, their own population declining more rapidly that some due to the isolation from Holds and Halls.

Dolphin Cove's current location was originally a thriving Weyrhold with a tropical location intended to provide lush fruits and such like in trade to the other Weyrholds. It was one of the last to close as dragon population dwindled, but was reopened when the original Thayan Peak location was destroyed in an earthquake in 1195. Lady Weyrholder Kaszian died in the earthquake and her grieving Lord Weyrholder S'honan led his people in reopening an abandoned Weyrhold near Topaz Sea Hold. His Weyrleadership was confirmed with young Kaedre's Advrith's rising, when his bronze Azapreth outflew younger bronzes in an open flight to win the young queen.

For turns, all ran smoothly at Dolphin Cove. But only eight months after the first strand of Thread appeared over Emerald Falls, the Weyr suffered a staggering loss: that of Kaedre and her gold Advrith. The next gold to rise was young Ysileerath, which installed the temporary Weyrwoman into permanency. The winner of the flight was none other than the previous Weyrleader. Brisis looked to him for guidance and he served as someone to keep her occasional over-zealous behavior from going too far. His loss of Azapreth in Threadfall, and surviving the loss, passed Weyrleadership to bronzerider V'leran, but Syehonan
remained with his young Weyrwoman.

In month four of the second Turn of the Pass, Brisis was poisoned at the Conclave meeting at Amethyst Cliff Hold. A young goldrider, Kalina, recently returned to the Weyr, stepped in and filled the gap temporarily. Her own gold, Moriath was the next to rise shortly after. The tumultuous relationship she had with V'leran was relieved when her gold was flown by Dalenth, leading to a complete change in leadership that took time to feel its way to stability.

The Weyrleadership of Dolphin Cove suffered more change, one of the changes leading to a Thread tragedy that decimated an entire Wing of riders under then Weyrleader O'dan, in Turn 3. The mistaken formation cost the riders, but also the young queen, Moriath, and her rider, Kalina, who transferred out after Moriath was severely wounded.

While visiting from Dragonsfall, Traelyn's gold Nyith unexpectedly rose to mate. J'darin's bronze Hasaarth caught her, and both the bronze and the gold declared Dolphin Cove to be theirs, and so a Dragonsfall queen was installed as Weyrwoman of Dolphin Cove.

In Turn 4, J'darin and Hasaarth suffered an injury in Threadfall and the bronze was unable to chase the next time Nyith rose. Traelyn decided to throw the flight open and N'vanik from Dragonsfall won.

N'vanik adjusted well to his new responsibilities, but Traelyn became more and more reclusive. At the end of Turn 5 her personal problems overwhelmed her and she attempted suicide, trying to take her gold /between/ permanently. She was taken to a special Mindhealer Hall and Janani took her place. Angdelouth soon rose, confirming Janani as Weyrwoman and N'vanik retained the Weyrleadership. Unfortunately, Janani left the Weyr after less than a Turn.

Cyradis replaced her and at first the new Weyrwoman's relationship with N'vanik was strained. Slowly, he began to trust she wouldn't leave him like his previous Weyrwomen and over the Turns they've formed a strong bond and led Dolphin Cove through both struggles and successes.

==Location==
[https://triadweyrs.org/location.php?place=DCW Dolphin Cove Weyr] is located in a collapsed volcano right on the sea. The semi-circular shape of the Weyrbowl empties out onto a beach. One side of the Weyr faces out to the sea and has several weyrs dotting the side overlooking the water.

The tropical location of this area creates very little fluctuation in temperatures between winter and summer, but the humidity is lower during the winter and spring months. The average winter low temperature is 71 F (22 C); the average winter high is 88 F (31 C). During the summer months, the average low temperature is 74 F (23 C); the average high 88 F (31 C). Because of its location right on the sea, it is also subject to hurricanes during the late spring into autumn. See [[Dolphin Cove Weyr Climate]] for more information.

[[File:Dolphin-Cove.png|600px|Dolphin Cove Weyr]]

==Economy==
Dolphin Cove, like all other Weyrs, is basically dependent upon the tithes of the Hold's beholden to them. The individual riders may do occasional jobs within their craft to garner a few marks to purchase items, but normally all they need is provided to them by the Weyr.

The lush forest around the Weyr provides tropical fruit, medical plants, and other such goods for trade.

==Building Information==
Dolphin Cove's Weyr is a collapsed volcano, the westernmost side open to make the Weyr itself a half circle in shape. With the more open aspect of a cliff-weyr, but the endless caverns typical of a volcanic-weyr, Dolphin Cove is less elegantly designed than some of its contemporaries. The need for living quarters for the former residents of Thayan Peak Weyrhold overrode the need for amenities, so only the higher ranking folk have access to bathing facilities and other perks, just as in the original Weyrs reopened in the North.

Additional living space was gained by using the northern sea-side portion of the old volcano. It falls away jaggedly to the water, with ledges gaining a rider an intimidating view of ocean waves far below. These weyrs tend to be reserved for those with dragons only, as there are no corridors to access the weyrs on the rugged cliff face that is the first sight any sailor sees of the huge Weyr.

A large natural cavern serves as dining cavern, with the kitchens adjoining via a corridor. Large fans circulate air through the dining cavern into the kitchens, pushing the heat from the ovens out into the open air of the Bowl. The tropical nature of Dolphin Cove means that most cooking is done to avoid the extreme heat of the daytime, and the large chilled room at the rear of the kitchens and its refrigeration equipment are essential to keeping food cooked in advance during the cool of the night from spoiling.

The Hatching Caverns are as traditional as anything the North ever produced. Majestically large, they were the original reason the volcano was settled as a Weyrhold in the late Ninth Pass, even though it was later abandoned when the population could no longer support such a large facility as the entire location demanded. Three clutches could be accommodated on the Sands at once, a feat that luckily has not been tested since Dolphin Cove was re-opened in 1195. There is a small room off the caverns for the junior goldriders, but the Weyrwoman's weyr opens directly onto the Sands.

Weyrlings are housed in a man-made barracks until their dragons are old enough to fly, then usually are assigned the smallest and highest Weyrbowl facing weyrs. Once they leave weyrlinghood they often move to slightly larger quarters, usually on the sea-side cliff-face, which is only permitted once their dragons are fully matured and able to handle the wind currents that can result from the crashing waves below. The weyrling barracks is large enough to house nearly three clutches of junior weyrlings at once, with just over 100 couches for the Weyr's smallest dragon residents.

Candidates have a barracks as well, both genders residing in the large stone building only a dragonlength from the weyrling barracks. Weyr residents of candidate age are encouraged, but not required, to Stand with the permission of the Weyrwoman, so often the candidates don't live in the barracks. They are permitted to remain with their families, if weyrbred, or in their apprentice rooms if they already have a craft. Those of journeyman rank in a craft are almost never sent to the barracks, retaining their private rooms within the Weyr. The barracks tends to be mainly the living quarters for those candidates Searched from Holds and Halls, providing a bit of a safe haven for those struggling to adjust to the differences in weyrlife versus what they left behind at home. The candidate barracks can house ninety candidates at any one time, but it is rarely over half-full, even now that Search is no longer as difficult as it once was.

Even with the half-circle shape of the Weyr, the Weyrbowl is enormous. The weyrlake and feeding pens take up space in the northernmost arm of the Bowl, and rarely is the Bowl empty of people or dragons, even in the darkest part of the night. In tropical Dolphin Cove, residents learn the advantages to some tasks being handled nocturnally. The beaches are a favorite place for weyrfolk to cool off, as well as the large bathing caverns with their cool water (a great contrast to the warmed waters of other Weyrs). Shyness over nudity is something almost non-existent at Dolphin Cove, except in the newest residents imported from Holds and Halls.

==Technology Level==
Because of the rush to reopen the Weyr electricity was never a priority other than some minor electricity for refrigeration in the back caverns by the kitchen. Heat for the water is through a geothermal system that was put into place back when Dolphin Cove was first a functioning weyrhold after the ninth pass.

In Turn 6, the Weyrleaders began a project of upgrading the electricity for the Weyr. Dolphin Cove now has a larger source of electricity from nearby streams, upgraded refrigeration and cooling fans in the kitchens, electrical lighting in the main areas, and lighting and fans have now been added to most individual weyrs.

==Female Policy==
Women are welcome in all aspects of life at the Weyr. Those arriving from Holds and Halls are encouraged to consider apprenticing to a Craft, but the Headwoman can always use another pair of hands if a woman doesn't have the aptitude or desire.

The Weyrleaders provide sanctuary for both women and men escaping difficult situations.

==Population and Plague Effects==
During the plague, Thayan Peak Weyrhold lost approximately a third of its total population, with a few more losses sustained in the earthquake that destroyed the Weyr.

In Turn 3, a terrible mistake in Threadfall led to many casualties and left the Wings understrength for more than a Turn, but the Weyr slowly recovered and now has a full complement of fighting dragons.

==Transportation Information==
Since the sea comes right up to the beach near the Weyr, it is easily accessible by sea. Most of the the tithe arrives via ship, and a harbor sits a short walk down the beach. Just beyond that, about half candlemark walk from the Weyr, is the Dolphin Hall. The land around the Weyr is almost jungle like and overland travel is quite difficult, but can be done. And as always, no place is to far when going /between/.

===Distances to other locations===

*Topaz Sea Hold - 500 miles (800 kilometers)
*Emerald Falls Hold - 1700 miles (2720 kilometers)
*[[Dragonsfall Weyr]] - 5,000 miles (8,000 kilometers)
*Dream's End Weyr - 2,400 miles (3840 kilometers)
*River Bluff Weyr - 4,800 miles (7,680 kilometers)
*[[Barrier Lake Weyr]] - 5,000 miles (8,000 Kilometers)

===[[Dolphin Cove Weyr Climate]]===

===[[Dolphin Cove Clutch Records]]===

</div>
[[File:DolphinCoveLeadership24.png|900px|center|Leadership Timeline]]

''Article by Avery''
[[Category:Locations]][[Category:Triad History]][[Category:Dolphin Cove Weyr]]

2025-05-20T00:23:57Z

Heather:

<div style="column-count:2;-moz-column-count:2;-webkit-column-count:2">
==Dolphineers==
*Dolphineer is the term used to describe a person in the Dolphin Craft.
*Like other crafts, there are the traditional ranks: Apprentices, Journeyman/woman, and Master
*Not all dolphineers have a dolphin partner, some swim and work with the dolphin pod in general. Unlike dragon-human relations, dolphins and their human partners do not share a mental connection and one can exist without the other should a death occur.

==Dolphins==
*Dolphins -- as they are quick to tell us -- are not fish, but mammals. The female gives birth to one live baby at a time, called a calf, and nurses the young one for up to four turns. Although they must remain in salt water to live, they have skin, not scales. They do not have gills, but breathe surface air through a blowhole on top of the head, and hold that air while diving to great depths.

*Dolphins travel in groups called pods, each led by a mature female. Pods frequently interact with each other, sharing information of fishing, currents, and dolphin family news. They also maintain an extensive oral history.

*Members of the pods can communicate with each other over great distances by use of sound waves. Receptors located in the melon -- the fatty, round part of the head -- interpret these sound waves, which also aid in navigation and location of food supplies and other underwater objects or obstacles.

*Communication with humans is carried out through use of vocalizations and handsignals, so dolphins and humans must be in close proximity to carry on conversation. Although dolphin vocabulary and sentence structure is simple and dolphins often do not understand land-based concepts, they possess intelligence equal to or greater than that of humans.

=== Local Pods ===

'''Dolphin Hall Pod '''

*The pod near the Dolphin Hall at Dolphin Cove consists of a large pod that averages between 25-30 dolphins at any given time. Dolphins who are not partnered with dolphineers still assist in Dolphin Hall activities and come into the Dolphin Hall for treatment and care. After an apprentice is promoted to Journeyman, they may seek a dolphin partner if one of the pod is willing.

== Dolphin/Human History ==

*Much of what we know about dolphins and their relationship with humans has been told to us by the dolphins. Although sea captains always looked on "shipfish" as good luck, and occasionally those rescued from the sea told the creatures "talking" to them, dolphins were usually ignored, until slightly before the end of the Ninth Pass. At that time, the AIVAS was re-discovered, and dolphin-human contact was re-established.

*Both AIVAS and the dolphins told of a long history of human-dolphin relationships. The two species had occupied Pern for the same amount of time, with dolphins included as colonists from Terra. They traveled here together and worked in partnership to establish new homes on Pern.

*However, circumstances combined to distance the two species. As humans moved North to shelter from Threadfall, contact with dolphins was less likely during the winter, due to the inaccessibility of northern harbors and dolphin preference for warmer waters. In addition, epidemics decimated human populations, resulting in knowledge of the dolphineer craft dying with those who practiced it.

*Over the turns, dolphins flourished, maintaining a rich oral history of their own species and that of man. The dolphins continued in their traditional responsibilities to man, though the human side of the bargain was not kept.

*As the relationship of dolphins and humans was rediscovered, the dolphins eagerly undertook to instruct humans in their traditional responsibilities. With the help of AIVAS, the utilization of hand signals and bells was re-established, as well as more coherent vocal communication, and the Dolphin-Human Contract once again became an important part of life on Pern.

==Equipment==
*One of the first things each dolphineer learns is how to use and maintain his diving equipment. New equipment is continually being tested as the Smithcraft and Dolphin Halls work together to develop it. '''Dolphineers use a variety of equipment ranging from goggles, fins, and snorkel type reeds to a low-pressure air tank made of the same type of tanks used for HNO3 during Threadfall.'''

*'''Fins''' - Dolphineers seldom swim far from the Hall without '''fins'''. These fins, constructed of heavy fiber, give more thrusting power to human legs while swimming, but need to have bindings replaced frequently. They are made from strong, flat reeds that are woven together and then sewn along the edges to keep them from unraveling. There is a strap along the back of the fins that holds them in place.

*'''Snorkels''' - Present-day dolphineers also use '''snorkels''', shallow-water breathers made from reeds.

*'''Goggles''' - similar to those worn by dragonriders, aid in underwater vision, and keep the eyes from being irritated by salt.

*'''Swim Suits''' - that fit closely to their bodies, especially when diving in deeper water or colder climates. The suits are closely woven and treated with plant saps to aid in waterproofing.

*'''"Diving dome"''' - used in salvage operations. The metal structure resembles a bell in shape, but is large enough to cover one to three humans. The dome traps air, allowing the dolphineers to duck inside and replenish their air supply before continuing a dive.

*'''Diving Suit''' - It attaches to a helmet with a tube running to a low-pressure air tank that is worn strapped to the dolphineer's back. This tank is in turn attached to the surface through another tube through which air is pumped. With this air tank, it is also possible for the diver to actually disconnect himself from the surface for short periods of time. During these deeper dives, it is necessary for the diver to wear a weight belt.

*'''Weight belt''' - The belt is made out of regular fabric sewn around several heavy rocks, and helps the diver to control his descent. The diving suit is large and not very maneuverable, so it is preferable that a dolphineer use other techniques, such as controlled breathing, to aid in necessary work underwater.

*Research continues into new materials and designs for equipment that will allow deeper dives by humans. One problem encountered in this search is lack of satisfactory ways to deal with the water pressure at greater depths. Another difficulty is rapid deterioration of materials exposed to the highly saline sea water, which requires dolphineers to spend long candlemarks cleaning and repairing equipment following each shift in the water.

==Training==

*Dolphineers should be strong swimmers, showcasing strength and stamina in the water. Those who work with dolphins will spend candlemarks in sun and salt water, straining muscles and toughening skin. Lung capacity should be sufficient to dive to moderate depths with dolphin aid.

*''Apprentices'' - learn the basics of dolphin life, including healing and anatomy of dolphins, hand signals, and swimming styles. They also become competent in swimming rescue of other humans.

*''Journeymen/women'' - travel in the same way as those of other crafts. This rank is expected to pay visits to outlying pods to render medical treatment and to accompany ships on extended voyages. They also assist in teaching apprentices, both in classrooms and while swimming.

*''Masters'' - engage in the teaching of lower ranks. They also confer with dolphin counterparts to make decisions regarding dolphin-human relations.

===Dolphineer Timewarp===
The Apprentice Dolphineer Timewarp works like the Weyrling Timewarp. You will create an apprentice for an "Apprentice Class" (just like you would for a Candidate class). Then your apprentice will follow the timeline below. Afterw these 6 pern months, your apprentice will advance to the rank of a Journeyman/woman and have the opportunity to partner to a Dolphin!

'''I want to join the Apprentice Timewarp program, what do I do?'''

The Hallmaster will send out an "Apprentice Call" (reminiscent of a Candidate Call) twice a year so that people have the opportunity to participate in the Apprentice Timewarp as a cohort.

====Schedule====

'''Pern Months 1-2'''

Members create an Apprentice (like you would a Candidate at the Weyr), and begin participating in Apprentice-level classes
*Classes: swim basics, dolphin anatomy basics, basic map reading, basic meteorology, basics of tides and currents
*Chores: Chores and duties assigned by the Master of Apprentices

'''Pern Month 3-4'''

Apprentices are promoted to senior apprentices and begin taking higher-level classes
*Classes: Different swim techniques and basic human first aid, basic dolphin first aid, hand signals, basics of search and rescue techniques
*Chores: Chores and duties assigned by the Master of Apprentices

'''Pern Month 5'''

Sr Apprentices take the exam and must receive the recommendation of the Master of Apprentices to walk-the-tables to Journeyman status
*Classes: Advanced swim/rescue swimming, Mapping techniques, seismic activity, salvage techniques, begin working more closely with the dolphin pod located at the Hall - this is when Journeymen begin making the potential connection with a dolphin that might want to partner later.
*Chores: Duties now assigned by the Hallmaster/Hallsecond

'''Pern Month 6'''

Partnering Ceremony where dolphins wishing to partner with a human meet with qualified Journeymen (this would be similar-ish to a Hatching/Impression)
*Classes: Journeymen are assigned classes to teach, journeymen choose their specialty
*Chores: Partnered dolphineers are now assigned ship voyages, visits to seaholds, etc

====Age Requirements====
To be considered for the Apprentice Timewarp, your persona needs to be a minimum of 18 Turns old, since 18 is the youngest a journeyman/woman can be.

=== Journeyman / Master Duties ===

Description of typical duties follow, but others may be added as needed. Dolphineers are expected to use their time on duty with the dolphins to learn from them and obtain advanced individual instruction.

*'''Fleet Duty:''' Accompany fishing fleet or transport vessels. Dolphineers will communicate with the dolphins on behalf of the seacrafters, administer dolphin medical attention as needed, and gather information as to currents, weather, and seismic activity. Fleet duty requires absence from the Hall for a span of 6 consecutive days or longer.

*'''Away Pod Duty:''' Visit outlying pods for information gathering and dolphin medical care. Dolphineers will spend time at several established Dolphin Havens, traveling to them either by small craft or by swimming, dependent on water temperatures and distance. Away Pod duty spans six consecutive days.

*'''Healer Hall:''' -- Due to the dolphins ability to assist in diagnosis of ailments, a dolphineer is assigned to the Healer Hall throughout each day except restdays. Because the distance to travel is so long, the assignment length is currently one month, and is normally given to an unpartnered dolphineer who will travel there by dragon and work with the local pod.

*'''Shore Patrol:''' Swim the coastline to check for debris, changes of current or tides, or other anomalies. Sunrise to sunset of each day is divided into three-candlemark shifts for this duty, with the same shift being assigned for a six-day period. Dolphineers are expected to report in to relief person and the Hallsecond upon return from patrol.

*'''Float Guard:''' Be available for dolphin report summons or first aid, assist Healers with emergency dolphin diagnosis. Dolphineers on Float Guard duty are expected to be either dockside, in the water, or in wharfside quarters during shift and to document all calls and summons. Days are divided into three-candlemark shifts, round the clock. Shifts are assigned for a six-day period, with chore groups taking turns at on-call for rest days.

*'''Diagnosis:''' Assist Healers in regular diagnosis day each sevenday. Other diagnoses will be done as needed, but scheduled appointments will be made for the third day each sevenday, unless preempted by Threadfall.

*'''Dormitory supervisor:''' Supervise the apprentices during their mandatory study period, and ensure the apprentices do not break curfew. Supervisors are also responsible for inspecting dormitories in the mornings, checking for mess and over-sleeping apprentices.

==Specialties==

Apprentice dolphineers attend a variety of classes, learning all aspects of dolphin history, care, and duties. When dolphineers reach journeyrank, a specialty may be chosen from one of the areas indicated below.

'''Basic Information'''

*Dolphin History
*The Dolphin-Human Contract
*Equipment Care and Repair
*Dolphin Communication

'''Medical'''

*Dolphin Anatomy
*Basic First Aid -- Dolphin
*Basic First Aid -- Human
*Advanced Dolphin Care
*Dolphin Diagnosis of Humans

'''Cartography, Geology, and Meteorology'''

*Measurement and Symbols
*Tides and Currents
*Mapping Techniques
*Advanced Cartography
*Seismic Activity and Seabed Changes
*Weather Patterns and Predictions

'''Rescue and Salvage'''

*Basic Water Rescues
*Salvage Techniques
*Search Patterns and Procedures

 
</div>

[[Category: Crafts]][[Category:Animals]][[Category:Dolphin Hall]]

Dolphin Craft

2025-05-15T14:57:10Z

Heather:

<div style="column-count:2;-moz-column-count:2;-webkit-column-count:2">
==Dolphineers==
*Dolphineers should, of course, be able to swim, but the most important quality in a dolphineer is stamina. Those who work with dolphins will spend candlemarks in sun and salt water, straining muscles and toughening skin. Lung capacity should be sufficient to dive to moderate depths with dolphin aid.

*Not all dolphineers have a set partner, but may swim with the pod in general. Those who do have partners are chosen by the dolphins at some time after reaching journey rank. Although the bond has some similarities to that of dragon-human, dolphineers must communicate by physical means, and one member of a partnership can exist after the death of a partner without emotional damage.

*''Apprentices'' learn the basics of dolphin life, including healing and anatomy of dolphins, hand signals, and swimming styles. They also become competent in swimming rescue of other humans.

*''Journeyfolk'' travel in the same way as those of other crafts. This rank is expected to pay visits to outlying pods to render medical treatment and to accompany ships on extended voyages. They also assist in teaching apprentices, both in classrooms and while swimming.

*''Masters'' engage in the teaching of lower ranks. They also confer with dolphin counterparts to make decisions regarding dolphin-human relations.

*Advancement through the ranks is much like that of other Crafts, with one noticeable exception: senior members of the dolphin pod are involved in any decisions regarding promotions.

=== Duties ===

Description of typical duties follow, but others may be added as needed. Dolphineers are expected to use their time on duty with the dolphins to learn from them and obtain advanced individual instruction.

*'''Fleet Duty:''' Accompany fishing fleet or transport vessels. Dolphineers will communicate with the dolphins on behalf of the seacrafters, administer dolphin medical attention as needed, and gather information as to currents, weather, and seismic activity. Fleet duty requires absence from the Hall for a span of 6 consecutive days or longer.

*'''Away Pod Duty:''' Visit outlying pods for information gathering and dolphin medical care. Dolphineers will spend time at several established Dolphin Havens, traveling to them either by small craft or by swimming, dependent on water temperatures and distance. Away Pod duty spans six consecutive days.

*'''Healer Hall:''' -- Due to the dolphins ability to assist in diagnosis of ailments, a dolphineer is assigned to the Healer Hall throughout each day except restdays. Because the distance to travel is so long, the assignment length is currently one month, and is normally given to an unpartnered dolphineer who will travel there by dragon and work with the local pod.

*'''Shore Patrol:''' Swim the coastline to check for debris, changes of current or tides, or other anomalies. Sunrise to sunset of each day is divided into three-candlemark shifts for this duty, with the same shift being assigned for a six-day period. Dolphineers are expected to report in to relief person and the Hallsecond upon return from patrol.

*'''Float Guard:''' Be available for dolphin report summons or first aid, assist Healers with emergency dolphin diagnosis. Dolphineers on Float Guard duty are expected to be either dockside, in the water, or in wharfside quarters during shift and to document all calls and summons. Days are divided into three-candlemark shifts, round the clock. Shifts are assigned for a six-day period, with chore groups taking turns at on-call for rest days.

*'''Diagnosis:''' Assist Healers in regular diagnosis day each sevenday. Other diagnoses will be done as needed, but scheduled appointments will be made for the third day each sevenday, unless preempted by Threadfall.

*'''Dormitory supervisor:''' Supervise the apprentices during their mandatory study period, and ensure the apprentices do not break curfew. Supervisors are also responsible for inspecting dormitories in the mornings, checking for mess and over-sleeping apprentices.

===Daily Schedule===
<blockquote>
*7-8 Morning meal
*8-12 Morning classes - usually held in Hall classrooms
*12-13 Noon meal
*13-15 Afternoon classes or chores
*15-17 Afternoon classes or chores
*17-18 Free time
*18-19 Evening meal
*19-20 Mandatory study period (all apprentices)
*20-22 Free time
*22 Apprentice light's out </blockquote>

*Although times are listed for meals, the kitchens are open throughout the day, with food available for those who miss meals because of duties.

*Classes are mandatory for apprentices, except in the most extreme emergencies. Journeyfolk will aid in class instruction and attend other classes at their own discretion or Master direction. Evening seminars will occasionally be scheduled for journeyfolk and masters, but apprentices are welcome to attend in a non-participatory role. Apprentices are urged to use their free time to keep up on studies and to ensure that equipment is in good repair.

*Chores are required of all Hall residents unless on Duty.

*All Hall crafters will participate in ground crews for Threadfall.

=== Specialties ===

Apprentice dolphineers attend a variety of classes, learning all aspects of dolphin history, care, and duties. When dolphineers reach journeyrank, a specialty may be chosen from one of the areas indicated below.

'''Basic Information'''

*Dolphin History
*The Dolphin-Human Contract
*Equipment Care and Repair
*Dolphin Communication

'''Medical'''

*Dolphin Anatomy
*Basic First Aid -- Dolphin
*Basic First Aid -- Human
*Advanced Dolphin Care
*Dolphin Diagnosis of Humans

'''Cartography, Geology, and Meteorology'''

*Measurement and Symbols
*Tides and Currents
*Mapping Techniques
*Advanced Cartography
*Seismic Activity and Seabed Changes
*Weather Patterns and Predictions

'''Rescue and Salvage'''

*Basic Water Rescues
*Salvage Techniques
*Search Patterns and Procedures

=== Equipment ===
*One of the first things each dolphineer learns is how to use and maintain his diving equipment. New equipment is continually being tested as the Smithcraft and Dolphin Halls work together to develop it. '''Dolphineers use a variety of equipment ranging from goggles, fins, and snorkel type reeds to a low-pressure air tank made of the same type of tanks used for HNO3 during Threadfall.'''

*Dolphineers seldom swim far from the Hall without '''fins'''. These fins, constructed of heavy fiber, give more thrusting power to human legs while swimming, but need to have bindings replaced frequently. They are made from strong, flat reeds that are woven together and then sewn along the edges to keep them from unraveling. There is a strap along the back of the fins that holds them in place.

*Present-day dolphineers also use '''snorkels''', shallow-water breathers made from reeds. '''Goggles''', similar to those worn by dragonriders, aid in underwater vision, and keep the eyes from being irritated by salt.

*Dolphineers often wear '''special suits''' that fit closely to their bodies, especially when diving in deeper water or colder climates. The suits are closely woven and treated with plant saps to aid in waterproofing.

*Recently, the Smiths have also developed a '''"diving dome"''' for use in salvage operations. The metal structure resembles a bell in shape, but is large enough to cover one to three humans. The dome traps air, allowing the dolphineers to duck inside and replenish their air supply before continuing a dive.

*'''When extended diving time is necessary, a rather unwieldy diving suit can be worn.''' It attaches to a helmet with a tube running to a low-pressure air tank that is worn strapped to the dolphineer's back. This tank is in turn attached to the surface through another tube through which air is pumped. With this air tank, it is also possible for the diver to actually disconnect himself from the surface for short periods of time. During these deeper dives, it is necessary for the diver to wear a weight belt. The belt is made out of regular fabric sewn around several heavy rocks, and helps the diver to control his descent. The diving suit is large and not very maneuverable, so it is preferable that a dolphineer use other techniques, such as controlled breathing, to aid in necessary work underwater.

*Research continues into new materials and designs for equipment that will allow deeper dives by humans. One problem encountered in this search is lack of satisfactory ways to deal with the water pressure at greater depths. Another difficulty is rapid deterioration of materials exposed to the highly saline sea water, which requires dolphineers to spend long candlemarks cleaning and repairing equipment following each shift in the water.

==Dolphins==
*Dolphins -- as they are quick to tell us -- are not fish, but mammals. The female gives birth to one live baby at a time, called a calf, and nurses the young one for up to four turns. Although they must remain in salt water to live, they have skin, not scales. They do not have gills, but breathe surface air through a blowhole on top of the head, and hold that air while diving to great depths.

*Dolphins travel in groups called pods, each led by a mature female. Pods frequently interact with each other, sharing information of fishing, currents, and dolphin family news. They also maintain an extensive oral history.

*Members of the pods can communicate with each other over great distances by use of sound waves. Receptors located in the melon -- the fatty, round part of the head -- interpret these sound waves, which also aid in navigation and location of food supplies and other underwater objects or obstacles.

*Communication with humans is carried out through use of vocalizations and handsignals, so dolphins and humans must be in close proximity to carry on conversation. Although dolphin vocabulary and sentence structure is simple and dolphins often do not understand land-based concepts, they possess intelligence equal to or greater than that of humans.

=== Local Pods ===

'''Dolphin Hall Pod '''

*The pod near the Dolphin Hall at Dolphin Cove consists of a large pod that averages between 20-25 dolphins at any given time. Dolphins who are not partnered with dolphineers still assist in Dolphin Hall activities and come into the Dolphin Hall for treatment and care. After an apprentice is promoted to Journeyman, they may seek a dolphin partner if one of the pod is willing.

== Dolphin/Human History ==

*Much of what we know about dolphins and their relationship with humans has been told to us by the dolphins. Although sea captains always looked on "shipfish" as good luck, and occasionally those rescued from the sea told the creatures "talking" to them, dolphins were usually ignored, until slightly before the end of the Ninth Pass. At that time, the AIVAS was re-discovered, and dolphin-human contact was re-established.

*Both AIVAS and the dolphins told of a long history of human-dolphin relationships. The two species had occupied Pern for the same amount of time, with dolphins included as colonists from Terra. They traveled here together and worked in partnership to establish new homes on Pern.

*However, circumstances combined to distance the two species. As humans moved North to shelter from Threadfall, contact with dolphins was less likely during the winter, due to the inaccessibility of northern harbors and dolphin preference for warmer waters. In addition, epidemics decimated human populations, resulting in knowledge of the dolphineer craft dying with those who practiced it.

*Over the turns, dolphins flourished, maintaining a rich oral history of their own species and that of man. The dolphins continued in their traditional responsibilities to man, though the human side of the bargain was not kept.

*As the relationship of dolphins and humans was rediscovered, the dolphins eagerly undertook to instruct humans in their traditional responsibilities. With the help of AIVAS, the utilization of hand signals and bells was re-established, as well as more coherent vocal communication, and the Dolphin-Human Contract once again became an important part of life on Pern.

==Dolphineer Timewarp==
The Apprentice Dolphineer Timewarp works like the Weyrling Timewarp. You will create an apprentice for an "Apprentice Class" (just like you would for a Candidate class). Then your apprentice will follow the timeline below. Afterw these 6 pern months, your apprentice will advance to the rank of a Journeyman/woman and have the opportunity to partner to a Dolphin!

'''I want to join the Apprentice Timewarp program, what do I do?'''

The Hallmaster will send out an "Apprentice Call" (reminiscent of a Candidate Call) twice a year so that people have the opportunity to participate in the Apprentice Timewarp as a cohort.

===Schedule===

'''Pern Months 1-2'''

Members create an Apprentice (like you would a Candidate at the Weyr), and begin participating in Apprentice-level classes
*Classes: swim basics, dolphin anatomy basics, basic map reading, basic meteorology, basics of tides and currents
*Chores: Chores and duties assigned by the Master of Apprentices

'''Pern Month 3-4'''

Apprentices are promoted to senior apprentices and begin taking higher-level classes
*Classes: Different swim techniques and basic human first aid, basic dolphin first aid, hand signals, basics of search and rescue techniques
*Chores: Chores and duties assigned by the Master of Apprentices

'''Pern Month 5'''

Sr Apprentices take the exam and must receive the recommendation of the Master of Apprentices to walk-the-tables to Journeyman status
*Classes: Advanced swim/rescue swimming, Mapping techniques, seismic activity, salvage techniques, begin working more closely with the dolphin pod located at the Hall - this is when Journeymen begin making the potential connection with a dolphin that might want to partner later.
*Chores: Duties now assigned by the Hallmaster/Hallsecond

'''Pern Month 6'''

Partnering Ceremony where dolphins wishing to partner with a human meet with qualified Journeymen (this would be similar-ish to a Hatching/Impression)
*Classes: Journeymen are assigned classes to teach, journeymen choose their specialty
*Chores: Partnered dolphineers are now assigned ship voyages, visits to seaholds, etc

===Age Requirements===
To be considered for the Apprentice Timewarp, your persona needs to be a minimum of 18 Turns old, since 18 is the youngest a journeyman/woman can be.

 
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[[Category: Crafts]][[Category:Animals]][[Category:Dolphin Hall]]