Between

An "area of nothingness and sensory deprivation between here and there" (glossary, pg. 320), between (always italicized) describes the state when dragons instantaneously jump in space or time. It is brutally cold in between, which is useful for freezing Threads that attach to dragons or riders, before they can gnaw into flesh. Extended time spent in between is also effective in aborting pregnancies, a bane to Lessa, who yearns for a second child, but a boon to Kylara, who has born five children and wants to enjoy her promiscuity without care.

Dragons

Named after the mythical Terran beast they resemble, dragons are a species native to Pern, believed by some to have evolved from tiny fire lizards through the process of selective breeding. Dragons live in extinct volcanoes called "Weyrs." They have enormous wings; long, sinuous necks; gleaming, opalescent, multi-faceted eyes; razor-sharp talons; soft, sensitive hide, and long...