The bronze rider of Mnementh, Lord F'lar, will require quarters for himself. I, F'nor, brown rider, prefer to be lodged with the wingmen. We are, in number, twelve. F'lar liked that touch of F'nor's, totting up the wing strength, as if Fax were incapable of counting.
[Markdown format] The excerpt from Anne McCaffrey's 'The Dragonriders of Pern' vividly illustrates the camaraderie and hierarchical structure within the dragonriders' community. The mention of F'lar, a bronze rider, and F'nor, a brown rider, underscores the distinction and respect assigned to different dragon colors and their riders, yet also highlights the bonds that unify them. F'nor's preference to stay with the wingmen emphasizes the importance of unity and shared purpose among the riders, regardless of rank. The casual assertion about wing strength — "We are, in number, twelve" — and F'lar's reaction, 'as if Fax were incapable of counting,' reveals a layer of humor and perhaps a subtle teasing tone. It hints at a lively intra-group dynamic, where leadership and respect coexist with banter and camaraderie. This small exchange encapsulates the essence of the story's culture: a tightly knit community that values loyalty, strength, and wit. Moreover, the characters' interaction suggests an underlying strategic awareness; knowing their number intimately is crucial in their roles as defenders of Pern. The reference to Fax, likely a formidable foe, adds an undertone of political or martial tension, making this brief passage rich in both character trait portrayal and world-building. Overall, it reflects a balance of hierarchy, friendship, and strategic intelligence that defines the complex social fabric of the dragonriders.
---Anne McCaffrey---
