Support - Saddle-Chairs

Aquar saddle-chairs used throughout the Commonwealth vary in style - everything from the purely functional chairs used by the auxiliaries of the legions [refer to notebook page shown] to any number of idiosyncractic designs produced by craftsmen throughout the cities. However all share certain basic features. The rider is carried half-reclining with legs lifted above the motion of the aquar. Reins are attached to bits, of wood or stone held in the creature's mouth.

Plainsmen saddle-chairs

These are very light affairs woven from wicker and finished with fern twine. The basic seat is like a boat which is attached over and across its 'bows' by a belt which passes under the stomach of the aquar. The chair is further secured by its 'stern' with a belt that is attached to the root of the aquar's tail.

A bundle of scouring-rush (horsetail) rods is attached transversally 'amidships' adjusted to the rider so that it catches him under his knees thus keeping his legs above the motion of the aquar without the need for stirrups. Another transverse assembly of rods is attached to the 'stern' of the chair. Both of these transverse 'beams' extend some distance on either side and are used together to attach baggage and weapon racks as well as the poles of a drag-cradle.

The 'prow' of the chair is a post to which can be secured any number of small, personal effects.

Plainsmen use neither bits nor reins - they consider this cruel - instead, they control their aquar by applying pressure to the creatures' back with the soles of their feet.

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