It was in Moreta's time - a time of legend, of heroic valour, of terrible Threadfall, and the Great Plague that devastated both Holders and Dragonfolk. For Lady Nerilka of Fort Hold, the tragedy was twofold for, wth the death of her mother and sister, her father's mistress took possession of the Hold. Angry and betrayed, Nerilka decided to escape and, as Pern seethed in turmoil, she began her perilous journey to Ruatha, Lord Alessan, and an unknown destiny.