Would it be normal for Weyr to have a good set of Master craftsmen, or is that unlikely? I know they need the Harper and the Healer at least, but what about Smiths and Weavers and random fairly obscure crafts? I was just trying to figure out how it works exactly... :tumble:
Yes! In fact, a lot of Weyrfolk trained as crafters up to Master level in the Interval, such as Tsaera and R'han. Those who Impressed wouldn't have so much time for their crafts now, but those who didn't could certainly still be around. The increase in tithes with the beginning of the Pass, too, would mean that Weyrs became more able to hire the best craftsmen.
I would imagine smiths, masons, herders, tanners, bakers, tailors and weavers would be among some of the most useful crafts at a Weyr - due to the need to make and maintain flamethrowers, riding straps and gear and feed the population well. Healers, of course, would be extremely important in a Pass and there probably would have been a lot of recruitment there once the first Falls began!
Also remember that Weyrs are HUGE! We write them rather small, but a typical Weyr would have thousands of people... and they'd have quite a few masters of every sort. :) Just because we don't see them doesn't mean they're not there... lurking in the shadows. ;)
Thank you! :tumble: