"A Del Rey book." "Portions of this book were previously publishedin substantially different form as 'A Time When' by NESFA Press, c1975"--T.p. verso.

Never in the history of Pern has there been a dragon like Ruth. Mocked by other dragons for his small size and pure white color, Ruth is smart, brave, and loyal--qualities that he shares with his rider, the young Lord Jaxom. Unfortunately, Jaxom is also looked down upon by his fellow lords, and by other riders as well. His dreams of joining the dragonriders in defending Pern are dismissed. What else can Jaxom and Ruth do but strike out on their own, pursuing in secret all they are denied? But in doing so, the two friends will find themselves facing a desperate choice--one that will push their bond to the breaking point . . . and threaten the future of Pern itself.