The Grey Falls tribe is a mix of Wolfriders and pureblooded elves; tribe members have some magic or none at all. Magic tends to run towards healing, firemaking, and treeshaping. Life has been extremely hard for the elves, and for the most part, magic is viewed in a functional light. The more useful it is (healing or shaping, for example) the more welcome it's likely to be. The tribe has been through several wars in its recent history which have sadly reduced it from nearly sixty tribemates to less than two dozen. The personalities of the surviving members of the tribe are strongly shaped by these losses.
Below is a list of characters currently played, and some of the characters who turn up in stories or may be remembered by characters now and again. These character sketches will help newcomers get started.
Beartooth (b. 10,013)
Beartooth was lifemate to Nightfire, the tribe's last chief, who still lives but is plagued by a madness brought on by guilt and self-loathing. A quiet young hunter, troubled by the loss of his family in the various wars. Believes strongly in the Way, and silently looks after Tito's best interests. Very affectionate, Beartooth is once again enjoying the attentions of Hilltop, who was a lovemate before he Recognized Nightfire &emdash; and Nightfire was not always comfortable with physical affection. Beartooth Recognized both Hilltop and Tiari, and currently dens with both. Appearance: Tall, with long, soft grey hair, narrow face, wears a sort of one-piece sleevless garment with hip-high boots. Excellent archer.
Skyfall (b.?)
A half-and-half Wolfrider/Glider, with some flying ability. He came to the tribe long ago with a case of amnesia, which both Stone and Yharren helped him overcome. He left the holt on a long journey to find his origins, and returned at the time of Horizon's accident. Skyfall is much changed. His hair has gone from white to coal black, and one hand is shaped into a wolf's paw. He is under the influence of Vistian of the Gliders, who set in motion a slow shape-change that is turning Skyfall into a wolf. Stone is able to control it somewhat, but he can't stop it completely, nor can he reverse it. Appearance: Small in build, long black hair, wears a vest-like tunic, breeches, boots. Keeps a glove over his affected hand. Wears a wolf-paw pendant.
Stone (b. 9731)
Now the eldest of the Wolfriders save for Skyfall, at an age somewhere over 300 turns old (he stopped counting long ago), Stone remains the principal healer in the holt. With very little wolf-blood left in him, thanks to his father's meddling, he has been able to develop his healing powers beyond what any other Wolfrider healer has been able to do &emdash; yet he can neither finish nor undo what his father did to him, nor will he try. His psyche was further shaped by his capture and torture during the war with the Sun Warriors (the infamous Troll Wars). Stone used to spend a great deal of time alone, diving deep within himself to develop his powers to a degree beyond any Wolfrider healer who came before him, and has taught his sister to do the same. He is quiet, thoughtful, but quick-tempered and very protective of his family. He is affectionate with those he cares about, dotes on his sister, adores his lifemate, and is rather overprotective of his cubs. Appearance: Tall, sturdy. Hair is silvery gray and falls in tangled curls around his face, to just past the nape of his neck. Wears a tan tunic, with red trimming on the front V and across the shoulders, and hip-high boots. Eyes long and narrow, gray. Pointed chin. Carries his foster father's sword (he was raised by Tallspear, Whitefox's lifemate for many years).
Kestrel (b. 9959)
At age 19, Kestrel left the holt for the love of a human, Alyssar, a gentle painter of Mage's House. He had been ritually "slain" by a death chant for blasphemy, and driven from the village. Kestrel lived with him and cared for him for several decades, until his death from a stroke when he was in his 70's. Kestrel returned to her tribe, and recognized Stone, bearing Hilltop two turns later. Alyssar's greatest wish was to live among the Spirits &emdash; which may be why his soul came to rest in Hilltop. While away from the holt, Kestrel's treeshaping powers emerged. She is a skillful tanner and seamstress, as well as a basket weaver. She is a motherly sort, given to handing out unasked-for advice, though she's not meddlesome. In times of crisis she becomes a strong and decisive leader and can fight like a demon. She is a strong believer in the Way, and will stand staunchly behind her lifemate and chief, right or wrong. Appearance: Tall, with long honey-gold hair, wide gray eyes, black headband disappearing under her hair. Usually wears a short pullover top of soft purple trimmed in black around the neck, no sleeves, and a wide breechclout with a curved, fringed edge, overlapping at the sides, also purple. Wears black boots. In the winter she wears breeches and a jacket.
Blackbird
The blind Wolfrider, a skilled listener and storyteller. (need more info)
Starfall (b. 10,003)
Huntress
Starfall is the only child of Stone's half-brother, Gale, who was killed by humans. She was raised by her grandmother, Whitefox. She is a bright, spirited young huntress. She is soul-sister to Hilltop, and is the only one in the holt besides Hilltop's parents who knows the bizarre secret of her soul name. She is very protective of Tito and tries to bolster his self-image, though occasionally she gets exasperated by him. When Tito ran away from the holt, Starfall went with him. The pair lived with the Whale Hunters, a tribe of humans headed by Raven-Carries-Fire, a shaman with the ability to "send." Tito convinced the shaman to take a journey to the Palace, where Tito communed with the High Ones and learned secrets he hasn't told the tribe yet. There, Tito and Starfall Recognized. They returned to Grey Falls, where Starfall gave birth to Snowgleam. Appearance: small, slim strong, with long white-gold hair, sometimes loosely tied with a leather strap. Wears a blue, long-sleeved shirt under a sleeveless green tunic, breeches, boots. Carries a cling.
Hilltop (b. 10,009)
A spunky strawberry-blond, who loves dancing and horsing around, Hilltop is also the tribe's best go-between with the humans. She befriended a human child, Shrea, and was responsible for the establishment of a new type of Mage, the Spirit-Toucher (of which Shrea was the first, now joined by Minel). Her soul was once that of Kestrel's human lovemate, Alyssar. His memories and ability to speak human serve Hilltop well. She is an excellent observer, but not the deep thinker that her father is, and is prone to snap decisions. Was lovemated with Cyclone for years, so much so that they decided they were lifemates. When they parted at Darktree they exchanged soul names. More recently, Hilltop Recognized her old friend and former lovemate, Beartooth, and bore Crayfish. Appearance: Petitte, with thick, light red hair that comes just past the nape of her neck and flops over her eyes. Wears a green halter-topped jumpsuit with a short buff-colored jacket, the sleeves pushed up, short boots with fringes. Carries a troll-forged knife that Kruuk gave her. Wears the amulet and mage's crystal that Alyssar wore all his life.
Brindlefur (b. 10,025)
Brindlefur came along about a turn after the final battle with the trolls and the Sun Warriors, a product of his father's great need to bring life into the holt after so much death. However, forcing Recognition as the Sun Warriors had tortured him into doing threw Stone into a fit of madness, and he ran away into the forest in the dead of winter. Kestrel followed him and cared for him. It was Brindlefur's early sends, in utero, that helped pull Stone out of his madness, something he has never forgotten. Brindlefur has usually gotten along with his parents, though he's sometimes at odds with his father, especially when his father was condsidering healing away his wolf blood to become a better healer. Brindlefur is passionate, sensual, quick-tempered, and still in competition with his sister. Appearance: Sexy young hunk, muscular, with shaggy brown hair well salted with silver, hence his name. Wears brown breeches, knee-high boots, leather vest. Carries a wide-bladed spear, like and African assegai. Plays the flute.
Eclipse (b. 10,026)
Eclipse is an excellent hunter who is sensitive to the emotions of those around him -- sometimes to the point of getting headaches from spilled over fear and anger of others. Oddly, Eclipse is deathly allergic to dreamberries. A peacemaker, Eclipse has a natural affinity to those in the tribe who seem to be underdogs. Has such endless patience that he can play all day with Doe and still try to teach Tito to throw a knife. Appearance: Average height, brown hair held back in a ponytail, thick bangs. Wears a short tunic of green, belted in silver, green breeches, boots. Wide, dark eyes, roundish face.
Raun
(Need info)
Bigeyes
(need info)
Pierce
(Need info)
Leaffrost
(Need info -- Leaffrost is the daughter of Wolfrunner and Leafdance, born after Wolfrunner was deposed as chief and left the holt. Her sister is Soulsinger. No one knows if her family lives or not.)
*Jade (10,045)
Raised from birth to the age of eight on the Island holt, Jade spent her early years being tossed around in the treetops by Hilltop, Cyclone, and Stormrook. She loved it. Jade grew into a fearless young huntress who doted on her mother, foster fathers, and her grandparents, even if Gran'pa Stone often got in snarling matches with Cyclone and Stormrook about their treetop antics. She developed a strange affinity for Allim and Nimue. Being left alone with them one day while the tribe played Taal, Jade climbed first into Nimue's lap, then Allim's. She has sought the steadying influence of the purebloods and her grandparents, and has grown into a reliable huntress who may one day be hunt leader. Appearance: Hair is pale red like her mothers, curling like her grandsire's. Wide green eyes. Wears a red tunic, green breeches, moccasins. Fringed ties at the elbows and knees.
Winter (b. 10,065)
Daughter of Kestrel and Stone -- Silver-haired like her father, but her hair long and full like her mothers. Has her father's healing power, but is alsoable to shape flesh to some degree. Round-faced, narrow eyed, a demure personality -- but don't get on her bad side, or you'll find worms in your furs, while she looks at you with perfectly innocent eyes.
Blaze (b. 10,071)
(need info)
Ravenwolf (b. 10,069)
(need info)
Crayfish (b. 10,069)
(need info)
Snowgleam (b. 10,073)
(need info)
Allim (b. 2799)
Allim was born while Arran the Half-Wolf still ruled the tribe with an iron paw and the tribe lived in the cold northern forests. Arran tried to force Allim to be a hunter, declaring that all cubs born to the tribe should hunt, but Allim did such a poor job of it that even Arran had to give up. Allim never knew who his father was, and his mother died when he had lived only nine turns. Arran took over his cave and when Allim threw a rock at him in protest, Arran attacked him and beat him nearly to death. Allim grew up despising Wolflings and their wolves.
Despite his intense disgust with the Wolfriders, Allim Recognized many of them over his lifetime. A few he grew affectionate for, especially during more peaceful times when the tribe was well-fed. Yet Wolfriders are mortal and they and their children die. Allim learned to steel himself against forming affection for any Wolfriders, mate or child, knowing they would only die. He tried occasionally to shape the personality of his offspring, but was seen as overbearing and rejected by the cub's mother. Secretly, he liked cubs and felt sympathy for their hard lives.
Nightfire's reign saw profound changes in Allim's sour temperment, changes that began while Wolfrunner was still chief. Kestrel, who loved him in spite of everything and helped him when Tito was an infant, had gained his respect in the Forest House war. Tilvah, a pureblood older than Allim who once lived with the tribe, urged him to have a hand in Briarheart's upbringing, to counteract Thorntoe's influence. Tito, Allim's first pureblood child, was a softening influence.
The deepest changes were brought about by Nimue, the Glider maiden who became his first real lifemate. He lost his heart to her entirely. She has gently shaped and tempered him. Finally, when the tribe reached the Palace and Allim learned what had really happened to his father, he fully felt his place in the tribe and understood why he had Recognized so often &emdash; for the son of the seed of Imris would one day rule the Palace, and, because of him, children of the blood of Imris were legion and scattered across the land. No one would ever succeed in wiping the blood of Imris from the world. For the first time Allim took up arms in defense of his tribemates. The tribe is also seeing his quirky sense of humor, and Nimue is now quite familiar with his sensuous nature.
Appearance: At 5'8" Allim towers over his tribemates (he might have been taller had he not had such a harsh, hungry childhood). Very lean, with long hands. Face is broad across the cheekbones, pointed at the chin, eyes are long and narrow and brighmetal gray. Waist-length black hair, swept back off the forehead. Wears a long-sleeved blue tunic, asymmetrically fastened, and gray breeches, tucked into boots. Carries a small knife, and a crossbow he swiped from a dead troll.
Nimue (b. 9055)
Nimue was the Keeper of the Preservers in the Glider Mountain, a lowly job for the lowliest of her people. She was shy, with a terrible self-image. Occasionally she'd be visited by some bored hunter looking for a tumble in the furs, who knew flattery and pretending to admire her might win her gratitude, but she refused them. When Tito was captured by the Gliders, and she first set eyes on Allim as he came to rescue his son, she was struck by his (what seemed to her) dashing appearance. Not wanting to see someone so wild and free end up a captive of her people, she helped Allim and the Wolfriders escape, then begged to join them. She helped care for Allim when he was wounded by the Gliders, and was amazed when she won his heart. She has been a faithful lifemate to him ever since. She is now discovering that love gives her some power over him, and she is quietly shaping and taming him. She was motherly toward Stillpool, who believed Allim and Nimue had the perfect love. Nimue's self-confidence has grown considerably over the turns she's been with the tribe. She may be surprised at her own influence. Appearance: Long, thick, wavy, dark brown hair. Hair from the crown of her head is held back with a wide, ornate clasp, while the rest hangs free. Round, brown eyes. Heart-shaped face. Slender in build, as tall as the taller Wolfriders. Wears a hip-length tunic, lined with fur in the winter, breeches, boots, fur cloak.
Tito Tanglefoot (b. 10028)
The young son of Allim and a pureblood named Liafair who discovered Grey Falls on her journey to find other pure elf tribes. Liafair stayed only until Recognition was fulfilled, left, and dropped her infant off at Allim's doorstep later. Kestrel volunteered to nurse him, but forced Allim to raise one of his own offspring for once. Allim had long dreamed of Recognizing a pureblood, but not quite this way. As a child, Tito longed to be like his Wolfrider agemates, howling and singing and hunting in the forests. However he is, to put it bluntly, a klutz. Hence his tribal name, Tanglefoot. Allim sensed there was deep magic in Tito and tried to bring it out at a young age, but his sheltering did Tito a lot more harm than good.
Tito became soulbrother to Foxlock soon after the young Wolfrider came to the tribe. He also became a lovemate to Starfall, almost by default at first, but Starfall has been affectionate to him and does her best to bolster his sagging self-image.
On the tribe's journeys, Tito discovered his talent for storytelling, in which the influence of dreamberries put him in touch with tribal memories of times long past. He also found he can enhance the magic of others, though to a degree the magic users have a hard time standing. He can "go out" a little, and has a moderating effect on Foxlock's shapechanging abilities. His failure to defeat Riptide, the mindbender, in the Palace battle shattered what little self-image Tito had built. When Tito ran away from the tribe and lived among the Whale Hunters, he organized a journey to the Palace. His work there in communing with the High Ones and working the scrolls helped Tito finally cast off his self-loathing and grow up. He now knows secrets that he hasn't told anyone about coming events that will shape the tribe. Appearance: Average height for a pureblood, though tall for a Wolfrider. Very thin in build, narrow face, huge gray eyes, small mouth. Hair is light brown, short, wispy around the nape of the neck, falling into his eyes in front, and with a perpetual cowlick on top. Wears a white shirt with dark brown trim on the front opening and the shoulders, fawn-colored breeches and boots. Around his shoulders he often drapes a woven blanket with bold human-made patterns, a gift of the Whale Hunters.
Grump (b.?)
Grump is one of the few survivors of the burnining of Four Prong Lodge, the Go-Back holt. He found the tribe while he was following the trail of his three cousins. Since then Narya has died in battle, and L'tathi and Kyrie have gone off to find their own way in life. Grump, however, has stayed with the tribe. He has a rapport with animals which proved useful when Arak's bear, Furry, was wounded and the healers might have had a hard time getting close to him. Grump is also handy with healing herbs.
Rameel (b. 10,065)
Daughter of Allim and Nimue -- Wears a Little Orphan Annie mop of curly hair, but dark brown instead of red. Narrow face, huge dark eyes. She was be born with club feet, unfortunately, but Winter's growing powers are helping reshape her feet so that she can walk normally. Rameel posesses the power to block the magic of the evil Glider, Vistian.
Arak (b. 10022)
Friendly, sometimes in a jolly way, very creative. Likes to carve soft stone, also plays a drum very well. Arak views himself as a bridge between elf and troll and wants to see peace between both tribes. In the Palace battle, however, he took up arms against the trolls who attacked the tribe that had welcomed him. When angry, his fierce warrior nature dominated and Arak is unstoppable. Arak is good friends with Tito and Eclipse, both of whom appeal to his gentler side. Has an elf's sending ability, and a troll's feel for the lay of the land. Appearance: Thick and stockly like a troll, but lacking a troll's greenish cast. Square face, pointy ears. Came from the Trollkin island wearing a loincloth of jaguar fur, sandals, cloak, massive troll jewelry. Has since exchanged his breezy costume for more substantial gear for the winter.
Twiglet
Twiggy latched on to Shycloud when she was traveling in the desert, and has been with the tribe ever since. It sees the tribe as its responsibility. It is there to spoot wrapstuff on things that need preserved, watch out for the Highthings and make sure they're safe, guide them to the Homeplace, and entertain them with lovely singing.
Note: Other Preservers came with Nimue, any one of which can be adopted.
Dead or absent Wolfriders who may get mentioned during role play or in stories (Note many of these characters still have players. Those marked with a * are adoptable. You don't have to memorize these, but keep this reference handy to look things up.)
Shycloud (b. 9913)
Shycloud was raised in Yharren's cave, under his strict rule, which may be why she is so shy. Only recently have her healing powers developed, thanks in part to a journey to Fargazer's, where she was helped by the mad healer, Dreamer. Stone has helped her further since her return. Shycloud is quiet, curious, and often seen lying indolently on a branch above the holt, watching everything that goes by, while munching dreamberries or her famous snacks. Shycloud is the soulsister of Ashes. She has been befriended by a Preserver named Twiglet. Appearance: Average height, very long brown hair (nearly down to her ankles). Wears a headband. Costume is a short, green, off-the-shoulder top, green breeches, boots. Often changes her costume color to yellow. Shycloud left the tribe to go North to care for her old friend, Nightfire, at Darktree Holt.
Ashes (b. ?)
The white-haired hunter was raised in part by his mother's wolf-friend. Soon after the death of the wolf, Ashes was captured and enslaved by humans. He escaped, found a new wolf-friend, and stumbled on Grey Falls by accident. While rough around the edges, and inclined to keep his thoughts to himself, Ashes is a fair singer and poet. He is an excellent hunter and tracker.
After the Troll Wars, Ashes went on a journey with Foxfire and wasn't heard of for turns upon turns. On the tribe's return to Grey Falls, Doe found a bearskin under a log. Shycloud discovered Ashes' scent on it. They finally encountered Ashes during the Palace battle, when he came to the rescue with a rag-tag band of elves who had been captives of the trolls.
*Briarheart (b. 10,012)
Briarheart's birth coincided with the Forest House war, the great battle with the humans of Forest House. Though she was Allim's daughter, she was raised by Redmane and her lovemate, Thorntoe. It was Thorntoe who started the Forest House war by attacking an unarmed human youth. He and Redmane always fought over Briarheart, and she grew up with her father's words &emdash; "Allim's brat" &emdash; ringing in her ears. She was relieved when Thorntoe left the tribe. She longed for Allim to show her some kindness, which he did on occasion at Tilvah's urgings. But when Tito came to the tribe, Allim's time was given entirely to his pureblood son, and Briarheart felt shut out. Over the years though, and after finding a lovemate in Foxlock, she has matured, reconciled with Tito, accepted her father the way he is, and found herself. Now living at Darktree. Appearance: Slight of build, short. Hair is dark auburn, held back with a gold ring-shaped clasp below her shoulders. Thick bangs. Eyed wide and green. Wears a short top tied at the midriff, short wraparound skirt, ankle-high boots.
Foxlock (unwrapped from a Preserver cocoon at the age of 17 in 10,043)
Foxlock grew up unloved and unwanted in his tribe of origin, the ill-fated Darktree holt. He was wounded by a longtooth and wrapped by a Preserver after he had crawled away into a cave. The cocoon was found by humans and kept as a sacred relic until the tribe befriended the Whale Hunters and were presented with the cocoon. Foxlock found acceptance in the Grey Falls Wolfriders. He soon found a soul-brother in Tito and has been protective of him, though he dislikes Allim, for the old pureblood reminds him too much of the Darktree elders. A fierce fighter, but usually a mischief-maker, sometimes prone to dark thoughts, Foxlock usually manages to keep things lively. Appearance: Small in build, foxy-faced, wide gray-green eyes, wears a sleeveless tight black top, full wine-colored breeches gathered into black boots and tied at the knee. Carries twin slim-bladed knives. Hair is poufy like a dandelion puff, red with a white lock in front which he braids.
Stillpool (b. 10,045)
Firstborn of the twins, Stillpool was quiet and beautiful as a moonlit pool, hence her name. She is very gentle-natured, quiet, and for years was extremely unsure of herself. She has always been Daddy's girl, and Beartooth tended to be overprotective of her. When her mother seemed to wrapped up in tribal business to tend to her family, Stillpool turned elsewhere for guidance. She believed Allim and Nimue had the perfect love, and took to following them around. She appealed to Nimue because of her gentle nature, and to Allim because she addressed him respectfully as "Elder." The pair have had a deep influence on Stillpool. Nevertheless, Beartooth expressed concern when he saw that Allim was noticing how nicely Stillpool was growing up. Yet that proved useful when Nimue used Beartooth's jealous overprotectiveness to get him to follow Allim into the woods, believing he had a rendezvous with Stillpool, while getting Stillpool matched up with her true hero, Brindlefur.
Stillpool and Ripple share the deep attatchment of twins, but one step further. They both share the same soul, and both know when something affects the other. This has made lovemating a bit awkward, but they seem to be getting used to it.
Stillpool left the tribe with her brother Ripple after he was deposed from his short chieftainhood by his father, Beartooth.
Appearance: Very slight, delicate build, short, buff-colored hair tied into two ponytails at the nape of the neck. Short tunic-like dress with side slits. Yellow shawl procured from human traders. Lace-up sandals, except in winter. Large, dark eyes.
Ripple (b. 10,045)
Intense, often unsure, Ripple is still feeling his adolescence. With his mother's madness and abandonment at Darktree, Ripple might have claimed chiefhood, but did not feel ready for it. Instead he asked his father to take control of the tribe for the time being. Idolizes Brindlefur, and was scandalized when his sister became Brindlefur's lovemate. Seems to be reconciled to it now, however. Ripple felt deep resentment toward his mother when tribal business took her attentions away from her family, not only for his sake but for his father's, for he could see Beartooth's pain. Unlike Stillpool, however, he didn't find another mother figure, and instead spent much of his time with Brindlefur. When Beartooth was swept away in the flooded river, Ripple took his place as chief. Though he tried his best, Ripple never wore the chief's lock with ease, and was later deposed by his father. Ripple left the holt to be with his mother in Darktree, and showed at his departure the same sort of madness that affected Nightfire. Appearance: Slim but strong, with short, buff-colored hair, with shaggy wisps falling over his eyes and down the nape of his neck. A gaudy tattoo over most of his left shoulder, in the form of flames. Wears breeches and boots, and can occasionally be wrestled into a vest or a shirt.
*Little Fox (b. ?, released from Preserver cocoon in 10,064, looking about age 12)
This dashing little critter was Preserver-wrapped and hidden with the other Darktree children when the tribe was doomed and knew it. She is the result of Redjay and Stoneflower's eventual taming of one another and their reconciliation. Foxlock is still quite stunned to know he has a sister. Little Fox is extremely lively, snarls at anyone she sees as a threat (including her brother's lovemate), and had a major crush on Tito, to the young pureblood's consernation. Appearance: Rather like a small Foxlock, with somewhat longer hair but the same white lock.
Horizon (b. 9637) Now at Darktree
Daughter of Greywolf, the former hunt leader, and Kirrah, a despised pureblood who accidentally burned down the Redwood forest where the Wolfriders lived before Grey Falls. Horizon spent turns coaxing Quickbolt out of his shell after his lifemate died, only to be thrown over by him in favor of Shadowfall. She is somewhat withdrawn and sometimes seems a little sad. An excellent hunter and tracker. She Recognized Storysinger during the Troll Wars when she journeyed north to the Palace. When she returned she gave birth to Eclipse.
Stormrook (b. 10,023) Now at Darktree
Stormrook was an odd child, disliked by his parents, despised by the Whitewillows tribe for his lack of hunting ability, so necessary in the Evercold. Much of his pain and his strange thoughts found vent in his painting, making him all the more odd to his people. He grew up hearing tales of Grey Falls from Cyclone. When Whitewillows was attacked and destroyed by trolls, and the survivors were taken in by the Go-Backs, Stormrook turned south in the direction Cyclone had told him. He found the Wolfriders on their journey south. He eventually won Hilltop's trust enough that he became her lovemate along with Cyclone, and he helped raise Jade, but he abruptly dropped both when he learned from the Narya that the Go-Backs, too, had been attacked and his sister may be dead. Horizon comforted him and he took up with her without a word of explanation to Hilltop. Later he Recognized Horizon, but the cub was miscarried when Horizon fell from a tree. He and Horizon adopted Den Siva, son of Ishnub and Riptide. Stormrook knows perfectly well who the father of the child is. He and Horizon stayed in Darktree holt to care for Nightfire.
Cyclone (b. 10,008) Now at Darktree
Cyclone first came to Grey falls as a young cub, with the name of Foxtracks. He was in the company of his uncle and a female hunter. All three left Grey Falls for Whitewillow, their holt of origin. Now Foxtracks, renamed Cyclone, has returned to Grey Falls. He never told anyone what happened to him in his absence, nor what happened to his companions. All the tribe knew was the cheerful little cubling has turned into a cynical, bitter, sarcastic young rake, careless of his own safety. He became Hilltop's lovemate and fought for her when she was captured by the Watchkeepers. Living in the Grey Falls tribe helped Cyclone mature into a reliable young hunter and warrior. They ended up quite in love. It was with much sadness that they parted at Darktree. They exchanged soul-names and promises to visit once in a while.
Violeteyes (Deceased)
Daughter of Flintpoint and Timekeeper (both dead), sister of Feathersilk (also dead). Strong huntress, and one of the most wolfish Wolfriders in the holt. Prone to advice-giving, and is ruled more by the head than by the heart. Killed in the Palace battle.
Nighthawk Missing, whereabouts unknown
Daughter of Starwing (former chieftess) and Quickdart (both dead). The arrogant sister of the former chief, Nighthawk challenged Birch immediately after Birch's successful challenge, and lost. Birch, now Nightfire, refused to hold a grudge, and in fact made Nighthawk her hunt leader. Nighthawk always felt overshadowed by her brothers, believing she could have led the tribe better than either of them, but appears satisfied with being hunt leader. At least her talents of leadership have been recognized. She has always felt she must prove herself to her tribe, however. Her secret desire to fly up into the sky and see all the stars. She often slips away from the holt to got stargazing alone, wondering what it must feel like to be a Glider. Nighthawk is about 280 turns old. Nighthawk stayed behind in Grey Falls when the tribe fled in exile.
Thorntoe* Missing, probably dead
Cranky, crabby, arrogant, Thorntoe is the Wolfrider equivalent of Yharren, but without the deep-thinking ability. Thorntoe is more likely to act from gut feelings. He started the Purge all by himself when he attacked with no particular reason a young human on a spirit-quest. The youngster, Jarrah, survived (oddly with his love of Spirits intact), and was taken in to the Mage's House. As a lifemate, Thorntoe was overbearing, and loved to tell Redmane what a terrific hunter he is, and how lucky she is to have him to provide for her. Some time after the troll wars and during Wolfrunner's erratic last few turns as chief, Thorntoe marched out of the holt and hasn't returned yet. He is about 800 turns old. If he never returns to the tribe, so much the better.
Redmane
Daughter of Tilvah and a Wolfrider. In her youth, Redmane left her tribe and wandered for over 400 turns. She discovered Four-Prong lodge, home of the Go-Backs. There she Recognized a Go-Back and gave birth to Treesniffer. When her son was about ten, she left Four-Prong and returned to her own people. She has been highly protective of Treesniffer, even though he grew to adulthood long ago. She is the lifemate of Thorntoe, and meekly submits to his whims -- including following him when he left the holt. She hasn't the heart of either a hunter or a warrior, except when protecting her offspring. Redmane is about 550 turns old.
Firelark Living in Fargazer's Rock
Daughter of Tilvah. At about 850 turns, Firelark is the oldest of the remaining Wolfriders. She is the lifemate of Yharren, and bore him a son, Bristletail, who left the holt some time ago. Firelark is very much under Yharren's thumb. She seems to put up with it, but may someday tell him off. Firelark is also the mother of Shycloud, by Aleetan. Currently at Fargazer's Rock.
Mistweaver* and Moonblossom*
Sisters who came to us from Moon Lake holt, to escape their chief and brother, Riverrage. They have since returned to Moon Lake, and Mistweaver successfully challenged her father for tribal leadership.
Kaylamale
A Glider, from a tiny tree-top village that was home to some Gliders and a handful of groundwalkers. The village was betrayed by a black-hearted elf (who was raised by humans), and was over-run by a band of nastybad nomadic humans. Kaylamale found our holt, stayed for a while, and Recognized Mistweaver. He followed her to Moon Lake.
Redleaf*
Son of Kaylamale and Mistweaver. A happy-go-lucky young hunter who has occasionally visited Grey Falls.
Treesniffer
The half-Go-Back, son of Redmane, is on a journey with Whitewolf. Treesniffer is something of a healer, though his powers are not strong. He tends to be a loner. His son, Hartrunner (by a Go-Back named T'run) came to Grey Falls for awhile, but has moved back to Four-Prong lodge.
Whitefox
Greywolf's good friend, Volann's and Glow's lovemate, and mother of Stone. She was intelligent and cunning, and a skilled musician. Her lifemate was Tallspear. She was nearing 800 turns old. Moved to Fargazer's.
Leafdance*
Lifemate of Wolfrunner and the tribe's animal-healer; she cared for the wolves. Though she was lifemated to the chief, she often played the field. When Wolfrunner was defeated by Birch and left the holt, Leafdance followed him. She is about Stone's age.
Soulsinger *
Daughter of Wolfrunner and Whitemane (dead). Inherited some of her father's limited healing powers. She's always ready to jump in where she thinks she's needed, even if she doesn't yet have the skills to be of any real help. Left the holt with her father and foster-mother. A little older than Hilltop.
Greeneyes
Daughter of Cathunter and Humanwatcher (dead). Talent as a firestarter, lovemate to Bristletail. Recognized Allim, who got Recognition over with as swiftly and brutally as possible. Her son, Crowfeather, resembles his father. Greeneyes left the holt to get away from Allim, and currently resides in Fargazer's.
Bristletail
Son of Yharren and Firelark. He refuses to obey them anymore, due particularly to his father's need for control. He is irresponsible and rebellious, and wears colorful clothing in all seasons. Currently out of the holt.
Cathunter
Daughter of Tilvah, mother of Greeneyes, Blaze, and Glow. Currently at Fargazer's.
Glow
Son of Cathunter and Humanwatcher. Like his siblings, he is a firemaker; he hasn't yet found his wolf friend (the Wolfriders blame his magic). He is keen-sighted, dreamy, distractible, and good-natured; the maidens find him irresistible, but so does Whitefox. Currently at Fargazer's
Greywolf
More wolf than elf, he was the tribe's best tracker, and a calm, steady presence. His bows were the best-crafted in the tribe. His mate was Kirrah, the Pureblood. He was nearly 900. Killed in the troll wars.
Windsilver (deceased)
The daughter of Tallspear and Whitefox, sister to Stone. A stubborn, irresponsible elf, she left Grey Falls and Recognized an insane Pureblood named Korryn. She brought their first cub, Blackbird, back to Grey Falls; their second cub was Vyrin, renamed Frost. Korryn died trying to bring his mate and their cub to safety. Windsilver was killed in the Forest House war, to no one's dismay.
Tilvah
The oldest of the tribe is Tilvah, a Pureblood who is the only elf to have witnessed the childhood of Nimor and Arran; in fact, she was the first elf to Recognize Arran. She is over 8000 turns old. She is the Dreamberry Keeper, and an excellent tanner. Tilvah is currently at Fargazer's Rock.
Yharren
Personally, Yharren considers Anlari's sacrifice a mistake. He knew Arran and Nimor and has had no liking for the Wolfriders since. He needs to control everything around him (lifemate, child, situations). He is lifemated to Firelark, a Wolfrider, whom he treats as a child. Yharren in currently at Fargazer's Rock.
Kivrin Long-eyes*
Also known as Traveler, Kivrin fathered Whitefox but didn't stick around long enough to form a relationship with her. The death of his Recognized shattered him, and he left the holt, despite the needs of his cub. His sudden return to Grey Falls upset her, and he left soon after. He may yet return, even though Whitefox has moved to the desert.
Tylan*
Long-lost son of Yharren, despised by his father, Tylan has been a wanderer for many, many turns.
Whitewolf
Her soulname is unknown by the tribe due to the fact that she's mostly in wolf form. A shapechanger who grew angered at her tribe's misuse of magic (for she was born to a tribe of Purebloods) Whitewolf went into a frenzy due to two elves' blatant mishandling of their powers and later discovered that she had murdered several of her tribe. The realization made her stay in wolf form. The Wolfriders regard her with a little awe and wonder; the Purebloods don't know what to think at all. Whitewolf is around Tilvah's age (or older). At this time, Whitewolf is on a long journey with Treesniffer.
Ronti
Ronti was a pureblooded female, Volann and Seela's second daughter. She was nearly 4300 turns old. A basket weaver and jewelry crafter, Ronti was not much good at anything else. As she disliked the Wolfriders for mocking her and would respond to any teasing with harsh words, she was the sort of Pureblood that gave Purebloods a bad name. She would also create conflict and trouble wherever she could. Despite all this, she Recognized Blaze and bore Halfmoon. Ronti moved to Fargazer's holt in the desert.
Navah
Navah was the daughter of Tilvah. She and her mother resemble each other greatly, with pale hair worn in a braid and large eyes, save Navah's were pale blue. She is a powerful sender and could often "overhear" others' thoughts. She hid a warm and loving heart under painful shyness and awareness of her magic; she was the tribe's herbalist and good friends with Moss, the troll-female. She was 7000 turns old when she moved to Fargazer's.
Orelan
The granddaughter of Nimor and a Wolfrider with very thin wolf blood, so that Orelan was also seen as a pureblooded elf. She was a firemaker, glassmaker, and tanner, and didn't suffer fools gladly. She was about 6400 turns old. She was the grandmother of Kestrel. Orelan was killed in the Forest House war.
Volann
Volann was an accomplished hunter bonded to a longtooth named Deathsong. He was about 5000 turns old when he died in the Troll Wars. He was a strong and dependable member of the tribe, although he would say that he didn't know why he remained with the Wolfriders.
Kyliera
Kyliera was a feisty pureblood, often in the company of Wolfriders. She kept birds for pets, and enjoyed being with both Wolfriders and Purebloods. She was about 4300 turns old when she died in the Troll Wars.
Aleetan
Aleetan was a healer, and was the father of Stone and Shycloud. He died in a battle with the humans many turns ago, when the tribe lived in Redwood holt. He was a quiet loner who never quite fit in with the holt, even with other purebloods. His attempt to heal Stone's wolf-blood from him while Stone was asleep, in an effort to bring forth his healing powers, created a rift between father and son that lasted until Aleetan gave his life to save Stone in the battle with the humans after the fire at Redwood Holt.