The melting of snow as winter gives way to spring is a near-magical time, even on Pern, when the air grows fresh and hope bounds anew, when spirits run high with vigor and zest. But for some, the simple magic is forgotten in the face of opportunity, the thrill of the complex hunt.... Raiders off the coast of Darksea Hold are becoming more and more daring with each attack, and the number of men, ships and supplies lost "during storms" has risen to a suspicious number. Pern and its law-abiding residents are starting to notice, starting to wonder...

Are the crew members of the Stiletto, and those connected to them, growing too cocky for their own good? Will the temptation of a trade ship, - ferrying not only supplies from Darksea to Southern Hold, but an unexpected live "cargo", as well - present too much of a temptation for the underground ring of criminals and smugglers to resist? How much longer will they remain covert, when blunders and mistakes are around every corner? Only you, a new player, will be able to determine! Fancy theft, attack, kidnapping, murder? The Stiletto is just the place for Pern's "unsavory" citizens. Perhaps there are a a few residing in your mind, just waiting for a chance to act?

Raiders aren't the only one affected by the changing of seasons, of course! As spring washes over the Southern Continent of Pern, spores of Thread fall into a warmer climate, emerging as voracious silver tendrils, and the Wings of Caufar Weyr are called to duty for another Turn. Rising to the skies of Pern, dragonriders defend the homes and families of those beholden to them, sacrificing time, safety, and in many cases, their own lives...

The life of a dragonrider is not without its pitfalls, but neither is it without its glories. The bond of Impression is one fabled across Pern, known to few, and envied by all. The eternal loyalty of an understanding creature, the constant companionship brought about by being a dragonrider, not to mention the glory of ranking amongst the elite scores of Pern's heroes... It's tempting, no?

Temptation may well be answered, shortly enough. Searchriders will be making their way to the Holds and Halls of Pern in no time at all! Gold Rhaeath's clutch is not the only one that will mark the sands of Caufar, and the need for Candidates is an ever-present demand in the Weyr. Caufar's most junior gold, the Weyrling Cevineth, is not far from maturity, and with it, her first mating flight and the resultant clutch. Perhaps you'd fancy taking your chances?

And what are these rumors that a foreign gold will soon find herself in Caufar's Hatching Grounds as well? Lynyara and gold Keth, guests from Monaco Bay Weyr, sent to train with the Wings of Caufar, are in need of a temporary player, and it could just be you! Staff isn't revealing too much about what this plot will entail, but so far they're letting on that a clutch of dragonets will be in need of writing, a hatching hosted, and even a golden egg will need Impressing!

With not just one, but two chances offered to play a gold rider at Caufar Weyr, who could say no? Plotting is underway for the massive event, set to take place over the next few months and culminate a dramatic finale on the cusp of the holiday season, and Caufar Weyr wants you, with your fresh ideas and new characters, to come in and join the fun! Come play along, won't you?

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