Hi! I have some questions about the candidate age range (12-21 Turns):
1) Is it the case that hatchlings would never choose a person outside that age range, or is it a human-made rule (presumably by Weyrleaders in the past) so that the new dragonriders are old enough to cope and young enough to give the dragon a long lifespan, and in theory it would be possible for someone outside that range to Impress, it just never does because of this convention?
So, say if someone lied about their age to Stand (whether older or younger) would they automatically be unsuccessful or not?
2) Do Search dragons stop showing interest in people once they're outside that age range? Or would they still see that potential but the rider just wouldn't be able to offer them the opportunity to be a candidate (but they might ask if they have any children the right age?)
Pern Wiki (which generally has pretty good information straight from the books) says:
Quote" Usually those searched are young males, aged 12 — 18, although older girls (aged 16-22) are sometimes searched if there is a gold egg available. With the addition of any Weyrbrat aged 12-18, the Searched are familiarized with the eggs and are present when the eggs hatch. The Hatchlings choose, or Impress a Candidate who suits his or her temperamental and/or other (still unknown) needs. The minimum age of the Candidates is decided by the Weyrleaders and may be changed according to the Weyr's needs. If there is a greater need for older more responsible riders, the age may be pushed back, if there is a lack of Candidates, the age may be lowered. The minimum age may also be changed depending on whether Pern is experiencing Fall or Pass. The youngest anyone has Impressed a dragon is aged 10 (F'nor), the oldest seems to be in their early twenties. "
Source: https://pern.fandom.com/wiki/Weyrs (https://pern.fandom.com/wiki/Weyrs)
So... that doesn't answer if a kid lied about their age what would happen, BUT, still interesting! :glasses
I've written posts were Search dragon shows interest in younger children (under 10), but the rider doesn't say anything, just takes a note, sort of let's remember him/her and come back in few Turns. If you think of it, how will would like 8 years old take care of a dragon? It does take a certain level of maturity.
The books don't seem to be conclusive. There's a part where F'lar says they shouldn't send 'striplings' onto the sands, implying they need to be slightly older, but no hint of an upper age range. They also state that Kylara was a mother who had weaned her child prior to impression, which to me suggests she was at least 16. I can't find any reference to Brekke's age, or that of Mirrim