3

In some of the Anne McCaffrey books such as Damia’s Children, there is a species called "Mrdini". They are strong, have teeth, “poll eyes”, legs that do not allow them to ride horses, stubby hands, and fur, and are also very strong.

When I read the books I try to imagine some sort of three-eyed human-sized ferret or something, but I have no idea.

Is there any actual work or statement that describes them well enough to make a picture that fits the descriptions from the book? I don’t even know what a poll eye is.

2

1 Answer 1

8

Two small Mrdinis are pictured on the bottom middle of this cover of Lyon's Pride.

enter image description here

4
  • My copies have a different cover. Makes one wonder what Plgst or Prtglm looked like. May 28, 2021 at 15:43
  • 1
    I don't recall ever noticing them on the cover. Those are way more humaniform than I had pictured. May 28, 2021 at 18:32
  • @MichaelRichardson: I don't know the books, but the depiction seems to be even in contradiction of what the OP quotes about them. Fur? Stubby hands? And the only reason why these couldn't ride horses related to legs is maybe that the legs are too short. May 29, 2021 at 10:21
  • These are not very weasel-like. The articulation of poll-eyes described in book seems precluded with that head-structure. Given the proportions, the big 'dini's like Plgst, towering over humans, might be able to ride horses, or even hippopotamuses. The kinds of tails necessitating 3-pointed stools instead of chairs also seem to be missing. Also the extensive communication through moving, wriggling, or waving, doesn't seem to be as intrinsic to this form as to a weasel. Also pejoratives for them were "weasels" but these don't look like weasels. May 29, 2021 at 21:50

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.