weyrlings

Weyrlings are a term from the Dragonriders of Pern series for humans who bond with a dragon during a hatching at a Weyr. The bond forms between a dragonet and a human candidate; once bonded, the person is known as a weyrling and enters formal training under a Weyrling Master. Weyrlings live in the Weyrling Barracks and follow a structured schedule.

Training covers how to work with the dragon's mind through a telepathic bond, flight control, feeding and care, basics of Thread awareness, and combat drills to defend against Threadfall. The aim is to produce an able dragonrider who can respond to the dragon's needs, communicate telepathically, and coordinate with others during wing formations. The relationship is intimate and demanding, as dragons are physically and emotionally powerful and their health affects the weyrling.

Training lasts several months to a year, depending on the Weyr and the dragon's development. At the end of the weyrling period, the bond deepens and the rider becomes a full member of the dragonriders with responsibilities in defending Pern. Weyrlings are a central element of Pern's social organization, linking young people to the dragons and to the broader defense of the planet.