Chapter 4 Summary

Kylara whirls before her mirror, examining a new red gown and practicing scowls. Seeing the hem uneven, she summons Rannelly, her elderly servant, who comes mumbling to herself continually. As Weyrwoman at Southern, rider of the queen, and by blood a Telgar, Kylara demands proper treatment. Rannelly informs her preening mistress that he has been looking for her - and wonders if he has caused the bruises that Kylara tries to hide. Weyrfolk should not mix with Holders, Rannelly declares, but Kylara counters: the point of being Weyrwoman is to do as she pleases. Kylara admires her belly, flat despite bearing "five brats"; now she knows how to go between to avoid that happening again. Kylara's golden dragon Prideth awakens and reminds her that Meron is no dragonrider. While Kylara scratches Prideth with a brush, they talk of mating. Prideth wants Mnementh, but...