A deadly epidemic was sweeping across Pern. Everyone, holder anddragonrider alike, pitched in to help -- except Nerilka's father, whorefused to share Fort Hold's bounty with the other Holds. So, ashamed ofher family and determined to do her part, Nerilka packed up medicinesand supplies and sneaked off to aid her people.Her quest to help wherever she was most needed led her finally to RuathaHold, where Lord Alessan was frantically preparing the precious serumneeded for mass inoculations against the dread plague.
Nerilka had long ago abandoned the hope of marriage and a home of herown. Now she found happiness in being useful and appreciated -- firstthe Healers and then Alessan made very clear that they were grateful forher help.
She had no idea that her new path would change the course of her lifeforever!
