ONA
Description
Newkirk is a midshipman serving aboard the British airship HMA Leviathan. His full name is Eugene Newkirk. Despite his mother being a Monkey Luddite, someone opposed to advanced Darwinist biotechnology, she encouraged him to join the Air Service, believing that service in the air would be safer during wartime. This background gives Newkirk a slightly complicated relationship with the Darwinist ideology that defines the British side, though he himself remains a committed and capable crew member.
Physically, Newkirk is described as gangly and awkward, with a youthful appearance that includes pimples and a lack of polish. He is not especially perceptive, but he is a decent midshipman who performs his duties reliably. His competence is recognized when he is chosen as one of the only two midshipmen allowed to remain aboard after Dr. Nora Barlow arrives with her heavy scientific equipment, implying that his superiors trust his abilities.
In terms of personality, Newkirk is friendly and approachable. He forms an early bond with Deryn Sharp, who is disguised as a boy named Dylan. Before the arrival of Prince Aleksandar, Newkirk is Deryn’s closest peer aboard the Leviathan, providing her with a companion to talk to and share experiences with. His lack of perceptiveness makes him a safe confidant for Deryn, as he never suspects her true identity.
Newkirk’s primary motivation is to serve his duty and maintain his friendships. He does not drive the main plot but acts as a steady supporting presence within the crew. His key relationships are with Deryn Sharp, and later with Prince Aleksandar and other crew members. He does not undergo significant development; he remains a consistent and reliable friend throughout the story.
As a midshipman, Newkirk’s notable abilities include his familiarity with the operations of the Leviathan, his competence in his duties, and his willingness to assist his fellow crew members. He lacks any extraordinary skills or heroic attributes, but his loyalty and steadiness make him a valuable member of the ship’s company.
Physically, Newkirk is described as gangly and awkward, with a youthful appearance that includes pimples and a lack of polish. He is not especially perceptive, but he is a decent midshipman who performs his duties reliably. His competence is recognized when he is chosen as one of the only two midshipmen allowed to remain aboard after Dr. Nora Barlow arrives with her heavy scientific equipment, implying that his superiors trust his abilities.
In terms of personality, Newkirk is friendly and approachable. He forms an early bond with Deryn Sharp, who is disguised as a boy named Dylan. Before the arrival of Prince Aleksandar, Newkirk is Deryn’s closest peer aboard the Leviathan, providing her with a companion to talk to and share experiences with. His lack of perceptiveness makes him a safe confidant for Deryn, as he never suspects her true identity.
Newkirk’s primary motivation is to serve his duty and maintain his friendships. He does not drive the main plot but acts as a steady supporting presence within the crew. His key relationships are with Deryn Sharp, and later with Prince Aleksandar and other crew members. He does not undergo significant development; he remains a consistent and reliable friend throughout the story.
As a midshipman, Newkirk’s notable abilities include his familiarity with the operations of the Leviathan, his competence in his duties, and his willingness to assist his fellow crew members. He lacks any extraordinary skills or heroic attributes, but his loyalty and steadiness make him a valuable member of the ship’s company.