Gennell was Masterharper of the Harpercraft during the Eighth Interval, preceding Robinton. He had a wife, Betrice, and five sons.
Biography[]
Gennell rose through the ranks to become the elected craftmaster of the Harper Hall. He first met Robinton when the young boy met dragons for the first time. He later sent Petiron and his small family to fulfill a teaching contract in Southern Boll - near Merelan's family hold - as a way to allow Robinton's mother Merelan to recover her health. Later on, Gennell, alongside Merelan and the rest of the hall, were largely responsible for Robinton's education. Gennell later assigned Merelan to Benden Hold, as a way to get her and Robinton away from Petiron. He reported the decision to Petiron, noting that it was Merelan's right to have her son until he became old enough to be an apprentice.
During Robinton's apprenticeship, Gennell conspired to ensure that Robinton was kept away from his perfectionist father, and later promoted Robinton to journeyman at an extremely young age. After Robinton achieved his Mastery, Gennell often sent Robinton on various errands, as his eyes and ears. As Gennell aged, he came to see Robinton as a successor, noting that he was young and energetic and he understood the dangers posed by Fax. Gennell announced his decision to the other Masters, who supported the decision. In one of his last acts, Gennell and Robinton traveled to Fort Hold, to try to convince Lady Winalla to allow surgery on her husband, Lord Holder Grogellan; but, the attempt was unsuccessful and Grogellan died. Gennell himself died the winter following Groghe's confirmation as Lord Holder in place of his father. Robinton was confirmed unanimously by the remaining Master Harpers.
Appearance, personality and traits[]
Gennell was an extremely knowledgeable Harper, and, reputedly, could craft any instrument. He had an important influence on Robinton, helping to oversee the boy's education. He understood the planet-wide needs of Pern, and made it a priority that his successor should do the same. He was one of the few to see and understand the threat Fax posed. He had a caring relationship with his wife, Betrice, and noted that he didn't have the same heart for his work following her death.