This latest entry in the Dragonriders of Pern series introduces Pellar, an orphan taken in by Masterharper Zist. Though born mute, Pellar is a gifted tracker, and when Zist sets off to take over as harper for Natalon's coal-mining camp, Pellar, along with his fire-lizard, Chitter, joins him on a secret mission of his own. Unabridged.