Hidden Valley II Mini Character List

=================The Exiles=================

Lord Beliel: M, H - Brown, E - Brown.  Rockshaper.  Son of Khepri and Meroe(D), brother of Olvirn (D), Serggyon, and Kiriel.  R. mate of Liera(D), father of Tegwar(D), Cylan, Piri.  Numerous out of Recognition children by various Hidden Valley elves: Obsidian(D), Ebonwolf, and Afterglow, sons out of Recognition by Eclipse; Mink, daughter out of Recognition by Sandblossom; Trinket, daughter out of Recognition by Rainblossom; Badger, daughter out of Recognition by Dawnsky; Hauntfox, daughter OOR with Winddance; and Heron and Viper, daughters OOR with an unknown mother.  Energetic, charismatic, and competitive.   A consummate politician, he excelled in getting the Hidden Valley's several tribes to work together and before his sanity really began to go, was a reasonably competent Lord.  Usually appears cool and collected, but when he does lose his temper, he's capable of frightening rages.  A devoted sensualist, but he has never been heavily into any one vice; power is his aphrodisiac.  Can be passionate and devoted or jealous and possessive of lovemates.  Considers himself an artist. As a result of his broken soulmating with Tyaar, his aborted Recognition to Tailshadow, and most of all his own fanatical desire for revenge upon the Tower, Beliel's judgement and sanity degrades steadily  until a famine in the Hidden Valley forces Doleera to go along with his plans to capture a number of elves from New Hope and hold them hostage in exchange for food.  This series of events eventually leads to his defeat and disappearence in TWR 1409.  Clearance: Ree Moorhead Pruehs

Adiana: F, H - Black, E - Dark brown.  Daughter of Caron and Alia (both D) R. to Helkar(D), mother of Sarisa. Strong metal shaper. Has general forging and smithcraft skills, knowlege of herbs, particularly poisonous ones. Witty, bright, amoral.  Uninterested in personal power but finds observing those who want it intriguing.  Not into abuse for fun.  If someone is in her way then she will be as ruthless and as vicious as she needs to be, and she will enjoy every minute of it.  Adiana's real reasons for leaving with Beliel are unclear.  Initially attracted by Beliel's energy and power, her 'obsession' with him was never as strong as Beliel believed it to be, and quickly faded once the Exiles left the Tower.  In the Hidden Valley, she remains aloof from the other Exiles, and pursues her interest in forging weapons.  She joins Basile and Heartseeker in their escape from the Hidden Valley in TWR 1305, and gladly answers any questions the the leaders of the Tower or New Hope have about Beliel and Doleera's plans and the Hidden Valley's resources, before leaving to pursue her own plans.  Where she goes is not yet known.  Clearance: Joyce Norton

Basile:  F, H - Honey blonde, E - Grey.  Rockshaper.  Daughter of Nyessti (D) out of Recognition; Beliel is her biological father, unknown to Basile, or anyone else for that matter.  Mikail is her assumed father.  Sister of Havrin, Mischa, Zareth, Adaarah(D), Ellyven(D).  Various domestic skills; efficient organizer.  Sweet, generous, supportive and industrious. Basile developed an infatuation for Beliel early on.  Her relationships tended to not last very long because no lovemate could live up to the image she had in her head of Beliel.  Followed him from the Tower once recovered from her Functionalization, and eventually became the Hidden Valley's Seneschal Good-hearted with no pretensions, but she does have a stong sense of pride.  More outspoken and self-reliant than she was in the Tower.  If angered, she'll likely forgive readily.  When organising things they WILL be done on time.  Not a gossipy elf.  Romantically inclined and loves pretty things.  After her Recognition to Heartseeker, her growing disillusionment with Beliel prompted her to escape the Hidden Valley with him and Adiana in TWR 1305.  She settles in New Hope with Heartseeker thereafter.  Clearence: Teri Gardner

Doleera, aka Stormrider, Leeli, Stormseye : F, H - Rust-red, E - Emerald green.  Daughter of  Silara and Lyris (D), R. mate (sort of) of Treetall, mother of Starling (by Treetall), Brightwood (OOR by Lizardtongue), and Denaya (OOR by Nalkor).  After Treetall's death, lifemate of Twilight.  Leader of the Stormriders, later ruler of the Hidden valley after Beliel's disappearence.  Animal bonder, strong glider and levitator.  Once Flight Leader of the Declared in Tower Mountain, Doleera left with Beliel rather than remain in the Tower and risk losing her position.  An exceptional hawkrider and an excellent tactician, but a poor strategist.  Outwardly aggressive, she has a number of well-concealed insecurities.  Driven by ambition and a desire for "revenge" agains the Tower elves she feels never appreciated her, especially her mother Silara.  The Hidden Valley is only the first step in the empire she intends to build: for Doleera getting is far more satisfying than having and she becomes bored and restless in the role of peaceful ruler.  Contemptuous of those who don't share her opinions.  Totally devoted to the pleasures of the flesh, sex in particular, and addicted to risk-taking.  Extremely protective/possessive of her family and friends.  Clearance: Dale Beaver
 
 

======================== Brightcolor Desert Elves ========================

Afterglow: M, H-Black, E-Dark violet. Limited healer, more sensing capabilities. Father of Lilac by Mink, and Keshir and Kalae by Goth. Son of Eclipse and Beliel, brother of Obsidian and Ebonwolf, half-brother of Mink, Heron, Viper, Trinket, etc. "Beliel's Songbird;" can frequently be found playing music in some corner of the family rooms/extended suites. Enjoys seduction, singing, playing musical instruments, making musical instruments, piffling; also fine clothes and jewelry. Like his brother Ebonwolf, he loves clothes. Has a long-standing need for Beliel's approval, and a weakness for his half-sisters. Loves and is trusted by children. Clearance: Lee Madsen

Amberhawk: F, H-golden blond, E-dark chocolate brown. [Dreamberry Keeper of the BCD elves.] Skilled, sensitive sender, minor magic sense, astral projection. R mate of Tempest, mother of Catdance and Silkhands. The Brightcolor elves' spiritual authority. Self-confident; takes her position seriously and is proud to hold this honor; sometimes crosses the line between this and being a snob. Very much a mystic, but not without earthly ambitions. Keeps the good of the tribe in the forefront of her actions, but her own desires linger in the background, including the desire to further train and strengthen her Talents. Doesn't believe the Exiles are the High Ones they claim to be, but willing to let them have their fancies. Clearance: Cyndy Haywood

Anvil: M, H-silver, E-black. Rockshaper. Father of Deergrace, Tempest and Wisp. Warrior, metalworker, weaponsmaker; has a distinct mechanical bent. Enjoys partying, dalliance, tinkering. A very solid individual: down-to-earth, practical, levelheaded. Not given to deep philosophy or moral conundrums, but has a sharply honed sense of honor. Does not approve of the "merging" of Brightcolor culture with outsider influences. Clearance: Cyndy Haywood

Badger: F, H-dark brown, E-deep topaz blue. Daughter of Dawnsky and Beliel, b. NH 102; half-sister of Ebonwolf, Afterglow, Mink, Viper, Heron, Trinket. Levitator/glider; minor rockshaper's sense; moderate (largely untrained) healer. Scout, tracker, tanner, trapper; helps design and build the traps set around Hidden Valley. Brooding, sharp-tongued, too smart for her own good. One of those children who know too much and act adult too early. Shunted off onto one BCD family after another after Dawnsky's death (no one wanted such a "bad medicine" child) until Sweetberry adopted her. Considers herself more a DWF elf than BCD. Used to relying on herself, uncomfortable seeking emotional support from others and doesn't like to see herself as "vulnerable." Perfectly capable of cutting off her nose to spite her face and has inherited both parents' abilities to hold grudges. Enjoys the challenge of trapping, becoming known as one of the best tanners in the tribes. Fiercely protective of her personal space. Tries to stay out of familial intrigue unless there's something in it for her; hates being used as a pawn. Prefers to hurt those who have wronged her emotionally rather than physically, but will settle for physical pain if she has to. Clearance: Cyndy Haywood

Birdlure: M, H-Chocolate brown, E-green. [Peace Chief of the BCD elves.] Finder. R mate of Waterfinder, father of Winddance and Desertbloom. Builder. Natural-born engineer and "tinkerer;" flintknapper, toolmaker. Proficient at trap and snare devising/construction. Possibly the best stalker in the tribe. A born teacher; good with children of all ages. Projects a relaxed attitude. Good detail memory. Content, self-confident. Personally secure and centered. Respects authority but won't allow someone in authority to sway him if he thinks he's right. Introverted; i.e., dealing with people drains him and he recharges with solitude. Good at mediating discussions. Enjoys arguing all sides of a question; a natural-born devil's advocate. Slow to anger but his rage is frightening. Clearance: Ree Moorhead Pruehs

Bloodhalt: M.  Healer.  Son of Greenstone and Bonedancer.  One of Mink's followers.

Bluejay: M, H-brown, E-Blue. Glider, Average sending. General hunting/scouting/survival skills. Stormrider. Manic, hyperactive extrovert; always "on". Expert mimic; can "do" anyone with killer accuraccy, but lacks the attention span for long-term impersonations. A fast talker; wit ranges from biting satire to utter lunacy. "Bluejay can do anything, just not for more than three breaths at a time." Clearence: Gene Breshears

Bonedancer: F, H - Buff, E - Grey.  Daughter of  Cloudtalk and Lionjoy, R. to Browneyes, mother of Maskfisher.  One of Mink's followers.

Brightbeads: F, H - Blond-brown, E - Hazel-green. Strong sender. Twin sister of Windfeet,  mate to Scorpion, mother of Redhand and Sunbreath. Difficult to know what's she thinking; can sit for hours with nothing moving but her hands. Crafter; specializes in beadwork but has many other craft and gardening skills. Does hair plaiting, incorporating beads, feathers and cords. Observant, unflappable and often appears unmoved by events around her. Has never adopted the father(s) of her children. Self-reliant and self-sufficient; used to taking care of her own problems. Has no interest whatsoever in becoming a warrior. Proud of her craft abilities and has a strong artistic bent. Agreed that the Hidden Valley was a more secure base for raising crops and children but had no opinion about the High Ones themselves. Was angry when the attack on the Tower resulted in Scorpion's and other's deaths with no real benefit returned for such a high cost. Best friends and bosom enemies with her twin sister; attracted to things that distinguish and enhance their differences so that they are not mistaken for each other. Clearence: Maria Manemann

Brightwood: M, H - rust red, E - Blue-green.  Son of Doleera and Lizardtongue out of Recognition; half-brother of Starling.  Glider; weak levitator. Woodcarver and sculptor.  An artist, with an artist's view on many things.Good with herbs and dyes, at least as it applies to his woodcraft. A talent for listening to what isn't said, and delivering appropriate responses; sometimes verbally, usually with his artistic skills.   Remembers his father fondly; his feelings about his mother are a lot more complex: he loves her and is fiercely protective of her, but also has few illusions about her.   Doleera's breakdown rattled him, as it would any child.  A listener by nature.  Knows his own soul, and can see things others may not want seen. Doesn't have a manipulator's personality, but is not at all adverse to angling a conversation to where the person will trip over their own answer.   If someone doesn't have a descriptive name, he'll give them one, free of charge. A believer in balancing the scales, as opposed to simple revenge.  Clearance: Dale Beaver

Browneyes: M, H - dark brown, E - Brown.  Son of Mink and an unknown father; Mink has implied that he is Nalkor's, but it's not known if this is true.  R. to Bonedancer, father of Maskfisher.  One of Mink's followers.

Catdance: M, H - white-blond, E - gold. Glider, animal bonder (big cats). Son of Tempest and Amberhawk. Quiet, laconic, but at the same time intensely physical. Goes through phases of almost manic action, followed by periods of solitude, meditation and working on his "hand-fillers", leather work and clothing. Has inherited some of his father's temper, though he is not nearly as hair-trigger as Tempest. Loves and respects his parents, but tries to remain apolitical (a difficult task, once the Hostage Crisis starts) -- he and Amberhawk do not always see eye-to-eye. Similarly, torn between Doleera's hints that he would be welcome in the Stormriders, and the obvious power-plays that would result. Clearance: Cyndy Haywood

Catsclaw: F, H-dark auburn-brown, E-dark blue. Daughter of Little Eagle (D) and Rattlesnake; R mate of Nez, mother of Jeimi and Wildrider by Nez and Scorpionsting OOR by an unidentified BCD male.. Warrior, does knotwork, beadwork, makes body/face paints and designs. A part of the ground troops under Lord Beliel, she Recognized Nez on a raid against the Tower. Catsclaw set out to seduce Beliel in order to pass off the child as his. However, one night with him told her that Nez had been right about him. When the child was born, she claimed it had died in birth (which is common to her people), and smuggling her out to give to Nez to raise. During the hostage crisis, Catsclaw compromised her position and her personal honor by siding with the prisoners. She went with the hostages when they escaped. Catsclaw is loyal and straightforward, curious, intelligent, surprisingly easily hurt. Confused about her place in the world. While she honestly cares for Nez, she finds the Tower and everything in it alien and strange... including her own daughter. Enters hawkriding training after a few years at New Hope. Clearance: Kathy R. Coleman

Cloudtalk: M, H-very pale blond, E-dark chocolate brown. Unremarkable glider, above-average sender. R mate of Lionjoy, father of Bonedancer and Ashgleam. Storyteller, medicine dancer, hunter, raider, dabbler; makes elaborate sandpaintings and carvings. Some people think his main job is argument and the rest is all hobbies. Very intelligent, a thinker, intensely interested in learning about everything around him. Always quick with an opinion or sardonic comment, never one to keep his thoughts to himself. Always just a little discontented; wanting more, without being sure what "more" is. Stimulated by the various peoples and cultures in the Hidden Valley, but not about to call anyone "lord." Clearance: Kathy R. Coleman

Corn Mother: F, H - blonde, E - blue.   Born in the Brightcolor Desert, HV -126.  Farmer.  Long-time community head cook for the Brightcolor people during their travels and since coming to the Hidden Valley.  Has many children from various lovers; she has given all of them to her one and only lifemate.

Cornsilk: F, H - yellow blonde, E - green-blue.    Born in the Brightcolor Desert, HV -20, carried to the "new home" by her parents. Farmer.  Delicate, wistful-looking, gentle, considerate, determined.  Teacher of other farmers, excellent in the fields, is said to be able to coax flowers from dust.

Darkknife: F, H - Dark brown, E - Brown  A perfectionist, a leader, a warrior's teacher. Very focused, perhaps a little too focused. Always wants to win, no matter what the cost. Pragmatic and analytical; very much an intellectual in her own way, approaches danger with extreme calm. Good at what she does, but doesn't have the broadest of skill bases. An absolutely abysmal cook, perfectly capable of burning water; also tone-deaf with an annoying tendency to hum while caring for her accoutrements of destruction. Indifferent to games of chance but enjoys games of skill. Hates the Taiakaari "Sacred Pigeons" with a passion and would see every last one dead, given half a chance.  Clearance: Ree Moorhead Pruehs

Dawnsky: F, H - Golden brown, E - topaz blue.  Levitation; latent deep-sense.  Twin sister of Icewhip, mother of Badger OOR by Beliel. Jewelry maker, embroiderer; decent cook. Agile, good dancer, better flautist.  A much better fighter than is assumed.  Quiet, something of a loner.  Believed in fate and destiny (in the sense that people were meant to do/be certain things, and that certain events had to happen.) Capable of focusing intently on one thing.  Sadistic , cold and frighteningly logical about getting her revenge if slighted.  Always perceived by her tribe as "not all there."  Dawnsky spent her life seeking a perfect soulbond with her twin brother, Icewhip. His need for individuality/private headspace was greater than hers, and he resisted her efforts.  When Icewhip was killed by Jheredd, a Tower hawkrider, revenge become her sole purpose.  Dies in TWR 1285. Clearance: Cyndy Haywood

Deergrace: F, H-pale gold, E-jade green. Glider, levitator. Daughter of < > and Anvil, half-sister of Tempest and Wisp. Fighter, hunter, trapper, tracker, consummate filch; very agile. Looks like a throwback to the High Ones: ethereal, delicate, graceful, innocent. Appearances are deceiving. Deergrace off the battlefield is playful to the point of silliness, theatrical, flirtatious, exuberant; Deergrace on the battlefield is ruthless, bloodthirsty, and utterly cold about it all. Cunning and fast on her feet, impulsive at exploiting opportunities, but not a deep thinker. Has no interest in being a Stormrider. Has a more than healthy libido and chases the males and females of both tribes. Due to injuries sustained in her twenties, has never gotten beyond the third season in a pregnancy. Sees her tribe's enemies as Enemies -- even elfin ones. Clearance: Cyndy Haywood

Desertbloom: F, H-White/blonde, E-green. Glider, levitator. Mother of Dream (father unknown; could be Doreel or Peysol) daughter of Waterfinder and Birdlure, sister of Winddance. Face, body and clothing painter, clothing maker and embellisher, midwife; dancer. Outgoing and cheerful -- almost visibly glows with joy most of the time. Loves as easily as she breaths; very loyal to friends -- has strong belief in self as well, quite to the point of overconfidence. Is quite certain in her own mind that she's the best clothing embellisher in the tribe. Prepared to work hard and endure hardships when and as necessary to get what she wants. Popular, attractive, needs to be needed. Has quite a temper and will show it readily if crossed or slighted; takes criticism poorly and needs time to adjust to it. Has significant chutzpah and not a great deal of tact. Becomes Peysol's apprentice during the Hostage Crisis. Clearance: Ree Moorhead Pruehs

Desertwind: F, H - Auburn E - amber-brown.R. Mate of Lionclaw, mother of Raikan and Sidewinder. Born in the Brightcolor Desert. Observant and practical, with a keen memory and little interest in personal glory. She finds in warfare the exhilaration of danger overcome by skill and cunning, and is proud of her ability to contribute to the tribe's welfare. When Silara deserted her Brightcolor Desert followers, Desertwind felt insulted by the "High One," but not altogether unhappy. She had always been less interested in the promised Great War than in founding a new home. The arrival of Doleera, Beliel, and Adiana with their offer of the Hidden Valley decided where the tribe would live. Desertwind threw herself happily into building a new village and way of life. To her great delight, she eventually Recognized Lionclaw and became his lifemate, bearing him two sons, Warspear (Raikan) and Sidewinder. Having longed for children in a tribe where bearing them without Recognition was common, she felt having started a family at last was the High Ones' blessing on her in her new land. Clearance: Maggie Fulton

Digger: M, H-Strawberry blond, E-Pale green. [Stormrider] Glider/levitator, specialized finding (water). R. mate of Quail (D). Father of Redblade and Twill. Soulbrother of Lizardtongue. An introspective artist, specializing in sand painting. Very loyal to his tribe, and particularly to his soulbrother. Clearance: Gene Breshears

Ebonwolf: M, H-Black, E-brown. [Associate Warden of the Hostages, later Warden.] Minor rockshaper, minor glider. Son of Eclipse and Beliel. Father of Windstorm. Skilled hunter, fighter, artist and textile artist. Very conscious that he is Beliel's son; has a consciously cultivated sense of theater; a born actor. Some would say "arrogant as hell." Competitive to the point of ruthlessness, regards those who are not as losers; knows how to get things done, and doesn't let others' agendas get in his way. If something isn't working for him, changes his tactics and does what it takes to get what he wants. Vain, narcissistic. Given to take offense easily, particularly with males he views as threat or competition, and never forgives a slight or an insult. Is killed in HV 229 by Beliel after the hostages' successful escape. Clearance: Ree Moorhead Pruehs

Eclipse: F, H-Blue-black, E-Deep violet-blue. [Drill sergeant for the BCD ground troops, later Warden of the New Hope hostages] Finder, very strong sender with no dependent powers. Mother of Obsidian, Ebonwolf and Afterglow (all by Beliel). Excellent organizer, weapons trainer, hunter, tracker, warrior. Dedicated to work, works very hard, capable of intense single-minded effort. A person of conscience, of strong moral principles and values. Lives to serve. Practical, no-nonsense. Loyal; respects authority. Thrifty, careful and cautious in all areas in her life....save one; Beliel. On some level she is only too aware that her relationship with Beliel is a dangerous and unhealthy addiction...but it is one she is powerless to fight for long. Dies in HV 227 of injuries sustained during the hostages' first escape attempt.  Clearance: Lee Madsen / Ree Moorhead Pruehs

Embergleam: F, daughter of Hiddenspring and Ashgleam.  Clearance: Margaret Dean

Farthrow: F, H - Golden blonde, E - Blue.  Rockshaper (weak to average).  Sister of Shardslash. Warrior, teacher, potter.  Likes games of skill or chance, preferably physical ones, has sampled a variety of hobbies.  Very athletic, crazy for a wager, loves a challenge. Compassionate and caring most of the time, but hates to be humiliated and will actively seek vengeance if sufficiently angered or threatened. Outgoing, people-oriented; her stunning, flamboyant personality usually conceals her abilities of being both calculating and schrewd. A clotheshorse, thoroughly appearance-conscious, loves to show off her body and her long legs. When she walks or dances, simply exudes sex. Loves to try new things. A bit histronic.  Clearance: Ree Moorhead Pruehs

Ferret: M, H- Blue-black, E -  Black.  Strong glider, though a little subject to concentration lapses; indifferent levitator. Rattlesnake, brother; Catsclaw, niece;  Stormgaze, nephews.  One of the Stormriders.  Very attracted to birds of all types; before (and after) he became a Stormrider he kept chickens. At some point will be given two mated pairs of pigeons, from which he will go on to develop the sport of pigeon racing (and betting).  An incorrigible daredevil. Very friendly, generally wears a manic grin, an incurable optimist.  Loyal to friends and commanders.  Sensitive, talkative, vacillating and sympathetic. Loves to socialize; not deep emotionally. Often vague and irresponsible, needing a constant change of scene. Can be relied on to act quickly (not always with in the best manner or with the greatest responsibility) in an emergency. Versatile, alert, dexterous and skillful. Needs to be constantly stimulated; doesn't deal well with boredom.  A bit flirtatious, prone to several relationships at the same time. Clearence: Ree Moorhead Pruehs

Firebloom: F, H-red, E-blue. Treeshaper sensitivity without the actual Talent. Gardener, herbalist/apothecary, nonmagical healer, seamstress. Also does brewing and dye-making. Picture a Cub Scout den mother with a berserker streak; that pretty much sums up Firebloom. Officious, an amazing organizer, sensitive to the pecking order; friendly and a chatterbox . . . until you cross one of her "doctor's orders." Serves as G.P. for the Brightcolor elves, due to her knack with plants and medicines. Her skill at healing keeps her out of most battles, though she will occasionally go on a raid. Though not a fighter per se, she can defend herself -- and has. Clearance: Cyndy Haywood

Firebranch: F, H - red, E - blue.   Born in the Brightcolor Desert, HV -98.  Sometime lover of Rattlesnake, Greenstone, others. Warrior.  Slim, strong build, very slender and willowy.  Very forthright, sensual, determined, strong-willed.  Always knows her own mind. Apolitical; she follows the current War Chief and doesn't make waves, but
will not go into a fight she doesn't agree with.

Firestrike: M, H - red, E - green.  Parents Firebranch (F) and Rattlesnake (M).  Born in the Hidden Valley, HV 170.  Warrior.  Quick temper, smart, fun-loving, friendly.  Died in the typhoid epidemic, HV 227.

Flashflood: M, H - auburn, E - blue.   Born in the Hidden Valley, HV 164.  Warrior.  Soulbrother to Firestrike.  Friendly, outgoing, persistent, quick-witted, hasty, but less tempermental than his soulbrother.  Very deeply affected by his soulbrother's death.

Flinthand: M, H - Brown, E - Dark brown.  Son of  Darkknife and Firestrike.  Warrior, hunter, as a youth possessed a desire for adventure which led him to run off with Mink's bandits.  General survival and weapons skills, tanning, tracking, etc.  A diligent, methodical worker.  Level-headed, good at getting people to work together.   Reasonably intelligent and foresightful though hardly a genius; not one to set  foolish or unworkable goals.  Not vain or ambitious, but has a certain amount of pride and often resents it when more flamboyant or better-connected perople get credit for work he's done.  Believes that hardship is good for the spirit and is rather scornful of people who are 'soft'.

Foxtail: M, H-Light brown with copper highlights, E-violet. Son of Mink and Masque; half-brother of Nightleaf, Lilac, Longclaw, Browneyes, Mistkit. Strong sender with an extremely limited self-shaping/rapid healing ability. Intelligent, vain and vindictive; fiercely loyal to his family, though without patience for interfamilial intrigue. Thinks his blood father (who doesn't know he exists) considers the Brightcolor Desert elves "mongrel" elves (told this by his mother); will grow jealous, in time, when he learns of the existence of Lyeth's son by his Recognition.   One of Mink's bandits.  Clearance: Gene Breshears

Gemteaser: M, H-silver blond, E-green-gold. Son of Anvil and < >, b. NH 72 (may be a BCD/DWF halfbreed); half-brother of Deergrace, Weasel, Tempest and Wisp. Rockshaper. Skilled at architecture/housing construction; warrior, medicine drummer. Likes making jewelry (esp. with gems), partying, sex, pranks. A gentleman lech, basically out for a good time. Considers himself a Brightcolor elf. Excellent practical joker. A thorough hedonist. Doesn't take himself seriously, so rather surprised and flattered when others do. Serious and efficient when called on to serve the tribe. Incapable of bearing a grudge. Strong-willed for all his lackadaisical manners. Enjoys using his jewelry as a barter item; will often gift lovers. Clearance: Cyndy Haywood

Ghosthunter (birthname Cloudseed): F, H-White-blonde, E-Dark brown. Daughter of Winddance and Arteuran, though considers Starchaser her father of choice; sister of ?/Ghostdancer. Strong sender with many sending-related skills potentially at high levels. Lightfingered and lightfooted; a consummate filch. Dabbles in a lot of things; "jill of all trades, master of none". Unwilling to pursue explorations of her Talents until after the disappearance and presumed death of her parents; afterward accepted Amberhawk's offer of apprenticeship. Has vowed eventual revenge on the one (spirit or otherwise) responsible for the deaths of Winddance and Starchaser. Clearance: Margaret Dean

Greenstone: M, H - buff, E - green. Healer. Brother of Yellow Pine, father of Walks On Stars, (by Light Hands, D) lovemate of Sunreach and Rattlesnake (among others.) A specialist in assisting new mothers through childbirth, a rarity for a male healer. Chose to go with Silara and the other warriors not because he missed combat particularly, but because Sunreach was going, and where Sunreach goes, Greenstone goes also--not just because of his affection for the young elf, but because of a promise he made himself and Sunreach's mother. Even-tempered and contemplative; he thinks and plans and figures out nearly every move well in advance and isn't given to hasty or rash decisions. Any flashes of anger are rare and quickly reined in again. Very much a thinker, a puzzle-solver, introspective and contemplative. Has a quirky sense of humor, and takes life as it comes--very few worries. Clearance: Kathy Coleman

Grunt: M, H - Dark brown, E - Black. Brother of Mountain. Average sending, general survival and fighting skills. Flintknapping, making stone tools and weapons. Grunt was named for his most common vocalization. He can talk perfectly well, he just usually doesn't see the point in doing so. Grunt is widely thought to be not too bright; whether he is or not is a matter of debate, and Grunt's not talking. He follows orders well and doesn't seem to have any particular scruples. Grunt would not torture a prisoner on his own initiative, but would have no qualms about doing it if ordered to by a superior. The only time anyone can recall seeing emotion in his face is in the heat of battle, when he generally looks like he's enjoying the hell out of himself. Clearence:

Hauntfox, aka "Jewel" F, H - Russet, E - Green. Glider, weak animal bonder.  Daughter of Winddance and Beliel.  Half-siblings on the father's side include Ebonwolf, Obsidian (D), Afterglow, Mink, Badger, Trinket, Heron, Viper; half-siblings on the mother's side include Cloudseed/Ghosthunter, Ghostdancer.  Desertbloom, aunt.  She and Starling grew up together and were best buddies until Starling took off for New Hope.   Hawkrider, skills include hunting & scouting, excellent tracker and sneaker.  An elf with lots of drive, lots of animal magnetism, a not inconsiderable ego, and a ruthless determination to get what she wants.  Not devoid of affection by any means; she sincerely loves her mother and responds to Beliel's indulgence with a fierce devotion.   Genuinely loves hawks and riding, as well as very much enjoying the power and prestige she gets from being a stormrider.  Very physical, sensual, sultry.  Works hard and plays hard.  Has nothing in particular against Doleera and in fact admires her, but makes no secret of where her loyalties lie, and keeps Beliel informed about goings-on in Stormrider Keep.  Perceptive, with a good eye, ear, and memory for detail. Clearence: Margaret Dean/Ree Moorhead Pruehs

Hawkwise: M, H- ? E - ? Glider (?)  strong animal bonder.  The Hidden Valley's hawkmaster.  Clearence: Dale Beaver

Heartblade: F, H - Blood red, E - Green. Glider and levitator of average ability.  Several children out of Recognition.  Weapons skills, hawkriding, clothing design and construction,leatherworking, talented flutist. Headstrong and ambitious. An energetic leader, not a follower, opinionated and at times even arrogant. Has a hot temper which generally cools off quickly.  Brave, straightforward, honest in all actions and forthright in speech. An ardent and passionate lover who wants to be at the center of attention. Dislikes being criticized, even if at fault. Competitive, not easily discouraged by initial losses - yet no one likes winning better than she does. Had a serious lovemating going with Stormgaze until his Recognition. Afterward has had several lovers of both sexes but no serious relationship; much too focused on personal vengeance and also far too untrusting to open self to actual love.  Clearence: Ree Moorhead Pruehs

Heron: F, H-Dark brown, E-Brown. [One of Basile's apprentices; later, particularly during the Hostage Crisis, in charge of the weaving rooms.] Rockshaper. Daughter of Purespear and Beliel; soulsister of Viper. Prattles constantly; will stab one verbally to one's face as cheerfully as in the back. A real clotheshorse, who loves very feminine clothing and jewelry. Very take-charge and aggressive. ("It's a jungle out there, and only those who can show their strength over others will survive.") Crafty, strategic, shrewd. Doesn't get mad; gets even. Comfortable with power, authority and responsibility. Operates best when everyone knows his or her place and the lines of authority are clear. Highly goal-directed, neither squeamish nor fainthearted, doing whatever is necessary to get the job done. Likes action; physically assertive, with a powerful sex drive. During the Hostage Crisis will demand that Peysol take her as a student. Clearance: Ree Moorhead Pruehs

Hiddenspring: M, H-Red, E-Blue. R mate of Ashgleam (D), father of Embergleam. Son of Sandblossom and Sparkstone, half-brother of Mink. Farmer; interested in selective breeding of plants. Musician. Usually taciturn, but capable of bursts of surprising eloquence. Intelligent; deeply reflective. Took the Hidden Valley's food crisis personally, and sees the "tribute" scheme as an insult. Has begun to doubt the efficacy of "Lord" Beliel and the Stormrider as leaders, and to harbor thoughts of revolution. Clearance: Margaret Dean.

Icerain: F, H - silver, E - grey.  Son of  Shardslash, father unknown.  Born in the Hidden Valley. Loyalist, member of the ground troops, guard of the hostages.

Icewhip: M, H - White, E - Silver.  Glider, Stormrider.  Brother of Dawnsky.  Killed by Jheredd of Tower Mountain when Jheredd rescued Jinan and Meiji from a Hidden Valley patrol.

Knifepoint: M, H- Dark brown, E - Grey.  Magic sense, largely untrained.  Son of  Rattlesnake and Stormwolf, born after Rattlesnake joins the bandits.  Intelligent, rather emotionally distant until his pride is engaged.  Expedient in getting what he wants, though not cruel by nature.  Prone to going his own way and seeing others only  as annoyances or  allies depending on what he wants from them.  Often comes up with Clever Plans but generally leaves the scutwork of executing them to others ("That's not my department!")  Not much libido.  Fond of his mother but well aware of her faults.  Searching for something which can truly engage and challenge him.

Lilac: F, H-Dark brown with russet highlights, E-Violet. Daughter of Mink and Afterglow; half-sister of Nightleaf, Longclaw, Foxtail, Browneyes. Low-powered healer, stronger than average sender. Gardener and vocal musician. Very quiet, somewhat of a pushover, happiest when making others happy. Clearance: Gene Breshears.

Lionclaw: M, H-tawny blond, E-vivid blue. [Leader of ground forces until his death in NH 99.] Strong sender, limited astral projection. R mate of Desertwind, father of Little Eagle (D), Lionjoy, Raikan (aka Warspear), others. Warrior, hunter, knows first aid and some herblore, weaponmaking, leatherworking, ropemaking. Carves in bone and wood, plays drums and flute, knows many of the tribe's traditional chants, dances and rituals. A clever, deliberate war leader respected for his well-planned, devastating raids and his bravery in close fighting. A traditionalist, Lionclaw abides by the ethical code of a Brightcolor warrior, who shows honor in his daily life as well as in warfare. A compassionate and fairminded tribesmember. Does not think much of the Stormriders' elitism and was angered and hurt by his son's joining their ranks. Feels that the younger Brightcolor elves in general are being seduced away from their people's traditions. Clearance: Maggie Fulton

Lionjoy: F, H-Tawny brown/blonde, E-Dark brown. [Chef in the High City.] Glider/levitator. R mate of Cloudtalk; mother of Bonedancer and Ashgleam, daughter of Bluefeather and Lionclaw. Skilled cook and excellent organizer, with talents for herb gardening and domestic arts. Gentle, compassionate, understanding. Given to streaks of extreme stubbornness once committed to an ideal or cause. A born peacemaker; a ready ear for those who need to be listened to. Strongly romantic. Caring and concerned; an inspiration to others. Quietly dependable and strong, steady, supportive. A positive, affirming idealist. Has a deep love for children. Meets and befriends Kaezharelu, Arteuran's chef, becoming one of the few viable links between the BCD elves and the Taiakaari. Clearance: Kathy R. Coleman/Ree Moorhead Pruehs.

Lizardtongue: M, F-Dishwater blond, E-Ice blue. [Stormrider] Glider. Soul-brother to Digger. Obsessed by Doleera, adores her and does everything to please her, is in denial about his slowly crumbling relationship with his soulbrother. Has always looked for fulfillment outside himself, worrying more about whether his tribemates liked him and approved of him than about his own, internal integrity. Grows increasingly confused and torn about Beliel's/Doleera's integrity as the Hostage Crisis continues, but cannot forswear his beloved Stormrider. Clearance: Gene Breshears

Longclaw: M, son of Mink.  One of Mink's followers.

Loresinger: F, H - White, E - Green.  Weak glider, animal bonder.  One of the Stormriders.  Skilled with bow.  Average to indifferent at hand to hand combat.  Musician, storyteller and historian. Saw the innovation of the Stormriders as a turning pont in tribal society, and determined to be part of the Experience and to record it in story and song for posterity. Though on first glance may seem an extrovert is (deep down) quiet, reserved, emotional, intuitive, sensitive, protective, and sentimental. A powerful imagination and almost photographic memory combine to make her an excellent storyteller and historian. Pursued her career as a Stormrider diligently and tenaciously.  In small matters can be fussy, critical, and argumentative; yet can be solid as a rock in a crisis and comforting others who are also affected. Clearance: Ree Moorhead Pruehs

Maskfisher: M, H - Dark brown, E - Dark brown.  Glider, born in Mink's bandits.  Son of  Browneyes and Bonedancer.  Warrior and hunter, general survival and weapons skills.  Cheerful, outgoing, fun-loving.  Superstitious and rather gullible, loves spooky stories and will listen to them and tell them with equal relish.  If he's not with the one he loves, he loves the one he's with; happily convinced that females find him irresistable.  A born sidekick; will willingly follow anyone who can feed him a convincing line.  Has a weakness for good food and loves a party.   Wears face paint in a raccoon-mask pattern.

Mink: F, H-Dark brown, E-Brown. [Liaison between the HV factions] Mother of Nightleaf, Longclaw, Lilac, Browneyes and Foxtail. Daughter of Sandblossom and Beliel. Medium-powered rockshaper. Adores her father, more ways than one. Manipulative and almost completely ruthless. Has a grand plan to breed a powerful elf, trying to apply principles of agriculture to her own offspring. Despises most of her half-sisters (the feeling seems to be mutual), and has varying feelings toward her half-brothers. After the Battle of New Hope, will lead a band of outlaws harrying trade caravans until she can find a way to get revenge on those she considers responsible for her father's death. Clearance: Gene Breshears

Mountain: M, H - brown, E - brown.   Brother of Grunt.  Tall, thick (mostly his build, but never considered all that bright), single-minded.  Warrior, and  happiest when in a fight.  Listens when he's told to do something, and obeys the chiefs without question.  Never given to introspection, never taken a spirit walk, never wants more than what is right in front of him.

Needlethorn: F,  H-medium blonde, worn in a pageboy. E-blue, S-light brown. Round face, snub nose, unusually large eyes with dark eyelashes. Medium height, voluptuously curvy. Average gliding/levitating skills. Very skilled in all forms of hand to hand combat; can't hit the broad side of a barn with missile weapons. Yer basic Alpha bitch, emphasis on the bitch, except when in the presence of the object of her affections, a tall-for-DWF skinny treeshaper called Puddlejump (although other males have been, er, subject to her charms as well). When she gets an idea in her mind, an entire eyrie of hawks can't budge it. Decided she was going to be a Stormrider for the sheer power trip of it all and basically, that was that. She and Doleera get along about as well as oil and water, but even Doleera has to admit she has talent as a hawkrider.

Nightleaf: F, daughter of Mink.  One of Mink's followers.

Obsidian: M, H- Black, E - Black.  Son of Eclipse and Beliel; brother of Ebonwolf and Afterglow, half-brother to numerous others.  Eldest of Beliel's Hidden Valley children.  No-nonsense, straightforward warrior with little patience for his younger siblings' infighting.  Very fond of Afterglow.  Is killed by Shadaln during the taking of the New Hope hostages. Clearence:  Gene Breshears

Pattercat: F, H - blonde, E - blue.    Born just before reaching the Hidden Valley.  Sometime lover of Midnight.  Loyalist, member of the ground troops.

Pebbleback: M, H - auburn, E - grey-green.  Born in the Brightcolor Desert, HV Yr. -118.    Warrior, general traditionalist, served in the ground troops.  Frequent challenger for the War Chief position; has served in the post at least once.  Contemporary and longtime friend/rival to Rattlesnake.

Purespear: F, H - Medium brown, E - Green.  Animal bonder (latent) A bit of a wild child, always on the go, always into everything, always has to be =doing= something. Loves a good wager. A fierce and focused warrior, untouchable with her weapons of choice.  Has a clean, athletic attractiveness. Will always leap to the defense of anything weaker than she is.  Loyal where her loyalty is given. Has very strong feelings about commitment, doesn't engage in casual friendships or love relationships.  Adores children, loves being a mother, an extremely willing foster parent.
Sensitive and compasionate, but also has enough insight into people to avoid being taken in by them (most of the time, anyway). Clearance: Ree Moorhead Pruehs

Quickmouth (Soulname: Foze) M, H-russet brown, E-brown, S-russet brown. Short and muscular, round face, cheerful if not giddy expression. Hirstute. Weak glider, better levitator. Charged into the Stormriders for the sheer  Adventure of it all, soon became secretly terrified whenever he actually has to fly a mission or engage even in mock combat. Unfortunately, his
overweening pride (or what passes for it) won't let him quit. Constantly cracking jokes, puns and fast asides to relieve his own tension, generally the worst imaginable; this drives everyone around him nuts. Always seems to bond to birds who grow up to be Very Large Indeed, and whose basic attitude can be summed up as "Damn the torpedos, full speed ahead" - which usually lands him in the front lines whether he likes it or not. (NOT.) Fortunately or un, he happens to have the most extraordinary luck…..

Rattlesnake: M, H-dark brown, E-bright green. Minor levitator, not enough to glide. R mate of Little Eagle (D), father of Catsclaw and others. Tanner, hunter, warrior; skilled at traps and other tricks as well as weaponry. Medicine dancer. Good with animals. Scorns what he sees as the decadence the younger elves seem to embrace, but he doesn't dwell on their ignorance. He leads raids on the outside, loves and fights with honor, and dances in hopes that the High One will see that she is leading the young ones wrong and will soon turn them all back to the right path. A secret supporter of Mink's bandits. After Mink's death in NH 299, he leaves the Hidden Valley to lead the bandits himself and live in the "old ways." Clearance: Kathy R. Coleman

Redblade: F, H-Bright copper red, E-Forest green. [HV tax collector] Daughter of Quail and Digger; sister of Twill. Very mild "magic sense." Headstrong and quick-tempered. Terribly loyal to the War Chief and to her immediate superiors in the ground troops. Believes that the Earthshaker and Stormrider will continue to lead their people to greater glory. Doesn't have the temperament for intrigue, leaving that to her friend, Mink. Secretly longs for gliding talent to manifest, as she would love to ride the great hawks (she thinks of them much the way a 20th century military enthusiast might look upon the latest fighter jet). Since this does not appear likely at her age, she has thrown herself into the role of warrior with a vengeance. Clearence: Gene Breshears

Redhand: M, H - black, E - black. Son of Scorpion and Brightbeads, twin brother of Sunbreath, half-brother of Rattlesnake. Strong gliding and levitation; strong sending. Partial to daredevil stunts; takes up the more demanding athletic games and sports; picking fights and arguments; horseback riding. Arrogant, impulsive, energetic, and easily bored. Intelligent, stubborn as all get out, sometimes blindly so; can let his ego get the better of common sense. Has a reputation for being undisciplined; isn't really, just has rarely needed discipline to be successful. A natural athlete, success has come easily to him. Self-doubt is alien to him and he has rarely had to deal with disappointment. Bloodthirsty, reckless and vicious in combat, vindictive towards an enemy, doesn't trust humans worth spit and trolls are even worse. Possessive and jealous by nature, of family as well as lovers. Was enraged when Sunbreath Recognized a whitebelly from the Tower and has never forgiven him for deciding to stay behind with her. Clearence: Maria Manemann

Ridgerunner: F, H - light brown, E - pale green. Average sending, general survival and fighting skills, a swift and tireless runner. Excellent scout. Born in the Brightcolor Desert while her tribe was engaged in a long-time feud with the local trolls. Ridgerunner just plain likes to fight. Brave, cunning and ruthless; not a deep thinker, but not stupid. She's become a good deal more cynical over the years and has come to the conclusion that for all her loud talk, Doleera doesn't really want to fight the Tower; she just wants to strut. She has no personal loyalty to either of the lords of the Hidden Valley; she leans towards Beliel because as a non-glider she has no chance of getting into the Stormriders, and because he seems more likely, all things considered, to give her what she wants: battle. Clearence:

Sandstorm: F, H-blue-black, E-rich violet. [Stormrider; Doleera's wing partner] Competent glider. Warrior, archer, hawkrider, potter and ceramic artist. In some respects a male hater, and a ferocious warrior, but also a surprisingly gentle person; enjoys babysitting and has endless patience with children; very attached to her hawks. Lovemate to Doleera as well as her partner. Clearance: Dale Beaver

Scorpion: M, H - black, E - black.    Born in the Brightcolor Desert, HV Yr. -155. . Glider.  Heavy build, wore a close-clipped beard.  Warrior, frequently a War Chief.  Lifemate of Swiftwing, father of Rattlesnake (Horsewhisper), Ferret, Hawkeyes, Shellback, Waterfinder, Anvil, and Sunbreath (OOR); perhaps others. Stongwilled, intelligent, solid fighter.  Good sense of humor, bright, lively personality, good father, loving lifemate/lover.  Was killed in the Attack on the Tower.

Scorpionsting: M, H - brown, E - brown.  Parents Catsclaw (F) and Buffalo Horn (M).  Born in the Brightcolor Desert, HV Yr. -41.  Half-siblings Jeimi (F) and Wildrider (M) by Catsclaw and Nez.  Unknown other half-sibs. Heavy-set, thick build, thick chest, arms, legs.  Hair shaggy, tendency to grow in all directions, thick, full beard.  Warrior.  Mean-tempered, quick to judge, bitter outlook; blames the people of New Hope in general and Nez in particular for "stealing" his mother's affections, and, to some extent, his grandfather's esteem.  Lost a great deal of personal standing in the Hidden Valley when he tried to kill his own mother in the Battle of New Hope.  Elects to join the Bandits almost immediately.  His bitter outlook only increases when his grandfather comes to lead them after the death of Mink.  Is killed in HV Yr. 320.

Shardslash: F, H - Ash blonde, E - Blue.  Sister of Farthrow.  Rockshaper (weak to average)  A warrior, also has craft skills as a potter and teaching children.  Enjoys being pregnant, likes being a mother more, but perfectly capable of shoving a child out of the nest when it's time to go. Fiercely protective of family and particularly of small children. (Got her name by once being forced to defend herself and a couple of children with a jug that she broke and used as a dagger.) Not as staggeringly look-at-me sexy as her older sister, but possessed of a sweet charm that many find less overwhelming.  When she fights, fights dirty and fights to win. Loves music, sings beautifully. Very artistic; her pottery pieces are works of art, and she enjoys doing face and body painting. Not...er, exactly known for the brightest of observations, at times.... Clearance: Ree Moorhead Pruehs

Shellback: M, H - black, E - green.  Parents Scorpion (M) and Swiftwing (F).  Warrior.  Lifemate of Yellow Hair.

Silkhands: F, H - silver, E - Blue-violet. Daughter of Amberhawk and Tempest. Healer, deep senser. Chatterbox, friendly, inclined to think the best of people until they prove otherwise. Subtly sensual. Not afraid of "getting her hands dirty" when it comes to her work. Her deep-sensing makes her particularly sensitive to the pain of others; Silkhand often pushes herself to her limits. More interested in the possibilties of their shared Talent than her father, but has had little occasion to experiment. Highly skilled at picking up the latest gossip/scuttlebutt. Enjoys the status both her parentage and her powers give her, and will use it if she feels necessary. Quietly ambitious; considers herself the most logical candidate for Dreamkeeper , given the current group of contenders. However, Amberhawk has not taken her daughter to apprentice, and has no knowledge of Silkhand's desires. Likes the Stormrider despite herself. Thoroughly disgusted by Lord Beliel's torture of the hostages. These feelings may lead her into some dangerous territory.... Clearance: Cyndy Haywood

Silverrill: F, H - Cinnamon brown, E - Pale blue-grey. Daughter of Sandblossom and Sparkstone, sister of Hiddenspring, half-sister of Mink. Treeshaper's sensitivities, but not the talent. Farmer, interested in selective breeding of plants. Has an uncanny knack with languages, mathematics and musical composition; desires to apprentice to Dijin in Tower Mountin and become an architect and engineer. Only loyalty to her brother kept her from leaving the Valley during/after the Great Escape. Extremely bitter about Beliel and Reedweaver's deception regarding the grain stores. When Hiddenspring leaves with Doleera, Silverrill becomes Doreel's full partner in the Botanical Garden, and friend and confidante as well. She loves Doreel as she would a Ghandi or a Christ. She is awed that he calls her friend. Clearence: Melissa Van Houten

Sparkstone: M, Father of Hiddenspring.  Clearance, Margaret Dean

Spider:  One of Mink's followers.

Sprinter: M,  H-brownish red, short and wiry, always seems to stand on end. E-brown, S-light brown. DWF/BCD crossbreed. Animal bonder. Small, skinny, introverted male with an unrequited (and basically unnoticed) crush on Doleera. Was never supposed to be a Stormrider, not in anyone (including his) wildest dreams - but his animal bonding power is so strong that he inadvertently bonded with the first available hawk he got close enough to. (Not in Rahirah's class, but definitely up there) Not good with weapons of any sort, was always supposed to be a crafter, but can pretty much convince a hawk to do anything.

Stormgaze: M, H - Dark brown, E - Blue.  Glider, weak levitator. Longtime but no longer unR mate of Heartsblade, R mate of Riverjoy (D). Several children by Heartsblade. One of the first BCD to Recognize a DWF elf, he felt the social stigma deeply and in fact even more so than she did. She died before this sort of 'fraternization' became acceptable or at least tolerated. There are a number of his own people he will never quite forgive for ostracizing her. Joined the Stormriders as a form of overt rebellion to his tribe. A quiet, deadly enemy with a seething, hidden temper.  Loves to travel, very athletic, loves games of chance. Afraid of being hurt, afraid of opening up, afraid it could be turned around and used against him. Impish, compelling, magnetic, utterly winning one moment, obnoxious the next.  Has the capacity to pick up and learn a new physical trick almost immediately. Clearence: Ree Moorhead Pruehs

Stormwolf: F, H - black, E - blue.   Born in the Hidden Valley.  Lover of Rattlesnake.  Mother of Knifepoint.  Warrior, currently running with the Bandits. Quick-tempered, crafty, cunning, a loyalist to her bones.  Not given to changing her mind quickly or being swayed.  Curvaceous, full figure, beautiful face; very attractive.  She hadn't meant to fall in love with Rattlesnake, and was angry at herself when she realized she had done just that; when he left her for a female who couldn't stand the sight of him, she shot him in the back and left him for dead.  Can hold a grudge forever.  Very determined to do exactly what she thinks is right.

Sunreach: M, H-blond, E-green. Glider, levitator. Lovemate of Rattlesnake. Clearance: Kathy Coleman

Surehands: F, H - auburn, E - dark green.  Born in the Brightcolor Desert, HV -50.  Crafter.  Acknowledged as one of the finer storytellers in the tribe, clothier and bead-maker.

Swiftwing: F, H - brown, E - green.  Born in the Brightcolor Desert, HV Yr. -130.  Siblings unknown.  Small, delicate-appearing, very slim, almost boyish figure.  Warrior.  Sharply intelligent, tactician, quick-thinking, always quick on her feet.  Could defeat larger and stronger opponents through tactics and skill; served as War Chief many times.  Was a popular and effective leader.  Recognized Lifemate of Scorpion, mother of Rattlesnake (Horsewhisper), Ferret, Hawkeyes, Shellback, Waterfinder, and Anvil.  Dies in battle in HV Yr. -72 (never reaches the Hidden Valley).

Tempest: M, H-grey-black, E-deep blue-violet. Healer. R mate of Amberhawk, father of Catdance and Silkhands; twin brother of Wisp. Warrior, corder. Greatly enjoys the physicality of battle (not to mention running, climbing, wrestling, joining, etc.) and is perfectly willing to volunteer for raiding parties. Since he is a healer as well as a warrior, his presence is always welcome. Pretty much a wild child when growing up, his adolescence was a struggle to learn to think before he acts -- a losing battle until he Recognized Amberhawk. Between fighting and healing, he's too occupied to worry about politics, and generally backs Amberhawk's opinions. Loyal to his tribe rather than the HV's leaders; willing to let the consensus run his lifestyle, as long as there are battles to look forward to. Clearance: Cyndy Haywood

Thornstick: M, H - brown, E - brown. Born in the Brightcolor Desert, HV Yr. -155.  Rockshaper.  Siblings unknown.  Warrior, never a leader but always a trusted lieutenant.  Stalwart, stoic, excellent fighter, solid, trustworthy, clear-sighted.  Thinks before he speaks. Extremely knowledgeable about the warrior's ways.  Member of the ground troops.

Trinket: F, H-Dark brown, E-Brown. Daughter of <> and Beliel. Low-powered rockshaper. Loves flashy jewelry, flashy clothes, and being the center of attention, particularly Daddy's attention. A whiner, skilled at scheming and sweet talk. Likes to be taken care of, and would like nothing better than to find a lifemate who is influential and able to get her the finer things in life. Clearance: Gene Breshears

Turquoise (aka Goodspice): F, H-strawberry buff, E-green-blue. Daughter of Firebloom and Icewhip, b. NH 81; half-sister of Starchaser, Nightjoy, at least one other. One of the main cooks for the Brightcolor elves. Cook, potter, gardener, good organizer, knows some first aid and nonmagical healing; good memory. Likes dancing, music, "playing around" with her pottery. Well-mannered, perky, but a little distant; careful about forming friendships, skeptical of those who want to be best buddies right off the bat. Feels she'll always be Firebloom's "little girl." Irritated at the warrior clique of the HV. Will not be treated as a servant or bed-toy. Her pursuit of knowledge about local herbs and plants has led her to form ties with the Deathwater Falls elves; generally open to new knowledge in her fields of interest.

Twill: M, H-Dark blond, E-Forest green. Son of Quail and Digger. Brother of Redblade. Sensitive, but not powerful sending, very mild "magic sense." A textile artist in all forms; an idealist and romantic. Can be very shy, even though he likes to talk once he has become comfortable with someone. Not politically inclined; has inherited his father's artistic temperament. Shortly after the beginning of the Hostage Crisis, falls head over heels in love with Chimreh -- and finds his shy affections returned. Secretly dreams of finding a way to rescue the hostages. Clearance: Gene Breshears

Viper: F, H-White/blonde, E-Dark blue.  Very minor rockshaper. Daughter of Shardslash and Beliel; soulsister of Heron. Herbalist, sometime medic, less often midwife. Rarely speaks; either sends or allows Heron to speak for her. Constantly searching for reality and truth; wants to be satisfied physically, emotionally and spiritually; always looking for something more, something better. Seeks rapture, when she is not exploring her own inner darkness. Prone to doubt and disillusionment. A daydreamer; often seems sort of "spaced out." Knows she's not particularly bright; stubbornly determined nonetheless to Prove Herself to her Beloved Daddy. Clearance: Ree Moorhead Pruehs

Weasel: M, H-golden brown, E-brown. Son of Anvil and Skyfree (D), b. NH 13; brother of Deergrace, half-brother of Tempest, Wisp, and Gemteaser. Hunter, warrior, scout; excellent tactician and strategist; good at games (one of Doleera's best opponents); medicine dancer. Likes games, acrobatics, flirtation and dalliance, word-games and storytelling. Extrovert, talkative, intelligent, imaginative, quick on the uptake; puts two and two together and gets the proverbial five quite often. Likes making up and telling his own stories, as well as tribal legends. Keen sense of humor, often goes off on tangents. Not much into practical jokes, but when he does, they are doozies. Good B.S. artist and roleplayer; can be diplomatic at need. Intensely interested in being a Stormrider, but hasn't inherited the gliding magic. Phenomenally lucky. Considers himself a provider. Heterosexual, enjoys playing the field. Serious about his medicine dancing as he is about few other things. Considers himself more a "jester for the spirits" than a "holy man of the gods." Clearance: Cyndy Haywood

Winddance: F, H-Deep russet with light streak at temple, E-green. [Stormrider] Glider, moderate animal bonder. Daughter of Waterfinder and Birdlure. Sister of Desertbloom. Lovemate of Starchaser. Mother of Cloudseed/Ghosthunter,  Ghostdancer. Very close to Doleera. Excellent midwife and tracker; dancer, drummer. Communicates with her eyes and with body language rather than speaking or sending. Deeply emotional, easily emotionally wounded. A well of secrecy; a perfect listener. Intuitively compassionate. Loves the physical pleasures of life and adores being pregnant; when she is pregnant can often be seen smiling to herself at odd moments, caressing her swollen belly. Disappears / presumed dead in NH 230, an apparent victim of the "Ghost Hawk". Clearance: Ree Moorhead Pruehs

Windfeet: F, H - blond-brown, E - hazel green. Twin sister of Brightbeads, aunt of Sunbreath(D) and Redhand. Semi-latent glider/levitator; strong sending. Warrior, with stealth and guerilla skills; tracking, stalking; very fast runner. Tans and tools leather; makes good bows and arrows. Named for her stealth and her speed, both of which are significantly aided by her semi-latent gliding/levitating Talent. She can't fly but she can outrun everything on two legs and some on four as well. Aggressive, assertive, independent, stubborn, better at doing than saying, proud of her reputation as a runner and can get self-absorbed in it. Any notion that she has to 'prove' her loyalty to the War Chief, the Stormrider or anyone is a mortal insult. Has a growing sense of fatalism and pessimism as time passes and a more or less 'I told you so' attitude during the Hostage Crisis. Clearence: Maria Maneman

Windstorm: M, H-Dark brown, E-Light blue. [HV tax collector] Son of Rainmist and Ebonwolf.  Shadaln's lover for a short time. Father of  Ciddara. A born civil servant and beancounter; self-important and pompous. Obsequious and fawning. Possibly the most poisonous gossip in the Hidden Valley. Known as Windbag and a host of less flattering names, behind his back. Clearance: Ree Moorhead Pruehs

Wisp: F, H-light grey, E-rich blue-violet. [Apprentice to Amberhawk; spy] Extremely sensitive sender/receiver. Twin sister of Tempest. Good at stealth, scouting/spying, and tracking. Naturally soft-footed. Possesses all the patience her twin lacks, and can come very close to an enemy without being detected. Loyal to her tribe first, the leadership second. Officially exempt from battle due to her apprenticeship, her skil as a scout is too useful not to use. Uses her Talent for spying, has no compunctions about listening in on sendings. Must struggle to remain neutral to the feelings of their enemies. NOTE: Dies in NH 105. Clearance:

Yellow Hair: F, H - yellow-blonde, E - grey.    Lifemate of Shellback.
 
 
 

================== DEATHWATER FALLS ELVES ======================
 
 

Acorn: M, H-chocolate brown, E-robin's egg blue. B. NH 83. Carver, corder, potter, skilled at butchering, climbing, swimming. A cheerful kid, not bothered by much of anything. The Hidden Valley is the only life he knows; he hears the grumbling and dissatisfaction, but not too impressed by stories he's heard of the tribe's former life. Very pretty and blithely bisexual; readily available to any of the "High Ones" who wants him, and often has crushes on Brightcolor elves. Willing to run errands, do favors and help with general scutwork, but does not like to be taken advantage of. Don't expect him to do a chore you've been assigned just because you don't feel like it! Clearance: Cyndy Haywood

Ambereyes: (deceased) F, H - dark brown, E - amber. Skilled carver, bow- maker and fletcher; scrimshaw artist. Lifemate of Treetall (not Recognized.) Mother of Sungold, OOR daughter by Treetall. Compassionate, sensitive, and imaginative, sympathetic to the feelings of other people, but sometimes too passive and gullible for her own good. Had a keen sense of humor and a great deal of charm. Romantic and sentimental, shy and quiet. Waited for problems to sort themselves out rather than take the initiative in solving them. Somewhat disorganized and a procrastinator. Clearence: Ree Moorhead Pruehs

Brooksong: F, H-golden brown, E-dark green. Skilled in cooking, singing, childcare, dancing, clothing construction and design. Friendly, outgoing, willing to stick up for the underdog. Also indecisive, self-centered, petty and officious. Often feels deprived, overlooked or unappreciated; yearns to be important, needed, special and powerful. A good friend, but tends to take advantage of her friends. Likes to arrange things to her advantage. Clingy and mothering with males; searching for that true love of story and song. Not always subtle when she's the one doing the chasing. Desperately wants a child; conceived by a Brightcolor male in NH 67, but miscarried early in the pregnancy and has avoided joining with BC males since. Fairly content in the hometree grove but will try to find a way into the "upper echelon" until Beliel starts torturing and executing hostages. Might be worth enlisting as a subversive if convinced of the necessity and success. Clearance: Cyndy Haywood

Darkriver: F, H-dark brown, E-dark brown. R mate of <>, mother of <>, former lovemate of Heartseeker. Soulsister of Sweetberry. Animal bonder; bonded to Sleek, an otter. Generally easygoing and funloving, but pragmatic. Skeptical of the Exiles' claim to be High Ones (may have picked up part of this attitude from her soulsister) but not about to make a big thing of it. Has her eye on them, though, and may decide to make trouble (in a subtle way) if they start getting too far out of line. Clearance: Margaret Dean

Dirk: M, H-raven black, E-dk. sapphire blue. Son of Riverswift (D), b. NH -398; father unknown. Glider, animal bonder. Warrior, hunter; strong, agile and dextrous, excellent hand-to-hand fighter; skilled at weaponscraft. Arrogant, proud, sensitive to insult, vicious temper. Very intelligent. Charming and chivalrous when he wants to be. One of the best warriors in his tribe; competitive with the Brightcolor warriors. Dangerous when thwarted, can kill (even an elf) without qualm. A backstabbing SOB when it's in his best interest. Delights in power; would like to become a Stormrider but hasn't convinced Doleera he's worthy. Fascinated by Beliel and walks a thin line between the Valley Lord and the Stormrider. Not without morals or gentler feelings; they just have few outlets. Very protective of people he does care about. Clearance: Cyndy Haywood

Flame-Arrow: F, H- Flame-colored, E-Grey/green. R mate of Bearslayer, mother of <>, daughter of Leafsong and Longarrow; sister of Hoodwink. Superb archer, huntress, tracker, bowyer and fletcher, knapper; one of the rebels who left with Flintrock after he challenged Redmane and lost. Normally very directed and focused, intense about whatever she gets involved in. A good, patient teacher. However, she does have a temper! Clearance: Margaret Dean

Flintrock: M, H-auburn, E-hazel. R mate of Duskwind (D), father of Dusksinger (D); brother of Steelsheen (D), grandfather of Heartseeker. Flint knapper, hunter, competent warrior. Gets along fairly well with trolls and often bargained with them on the tribe's behalf. Did carving, storytelling; somewhat of a historian. A rather gruff, uncompromising personality; a staunch traditionalist with a strong sense of duty. Personally unambitious, he challenged Redmane only after his chief-nephew, in his opinion, went too far in his adulation of the so-called "High Ones." Redmane defeated him and he left the tribe along with a small band of followers. Clearance: Margaret Dean

Frostfire: F, H-silver-white, E-hazel-gold. [Deathwater Falls tribal elder.] B. NH -679. Sister of Shade; R mate of Icewhip, mother of Nightjoy. Latent healer. Skilled at clothing construction, dyeing and tanning. Proud, vain, a touch arrogant. Demands respect and usually gets it. Status is important to her. Has a good deal of common sense and a storehouse of experience and tribal lore. Pragmatic and practical. Not above playing on her looks. Temper can run either glacial or raging forest fire; it's said that her attitude toward joining runs the same way. Had her cap set for Treetall way back when; was not at all happy about Recognizing Icewhip. Always secretly envied her brother's Talent, and since his defection has been hoping she will manifest. Resentful of any half-breed healers. Despite her many flaws, she is fiercely loyal to her tribe. Clearance: Cyndy Haywood

Harpoon: M, H-red, E-green.  Excellent sender. Rarely speaks, usually sends or mimes or uses body language. Fishing, jack of all trades, excellent musician. Very easy-going, laid-back, mellow in nature. Children and dogs tend to love him on sight. An excellent storyteller, but (as noted) usually sends and mimes his tales. Has a rather manic side that occasionally erupts -- sometimes at the worst of times; and when it does Anything Can Happen. Clearance: Liz Roth/Ree Moorhead Pruehs

Mockingbird: F, H-chestnut, E-warm grey. Sister of Keeneye (D), aunt of Woodwise and Sundancer. Treeshaper. Musician, warrior, hunter, storyteller. Good-humored, quick-witted, a good listener and confidant, but an intensely private person in some ways; hides her hurts and deep feelings, and keeps her surface emotions light and easy. Enjoys intimacy with males and females, but somewhat choosy. One of the tribe's best musicians, always interested in learning more; ready to befriend any Brightcolor musicians. Known for her mimicry of tribefolk as well as birds. Clearance: Cyndy Haywood

Morningstar: M, H - golden-blonde, E - Blue. Firemaker. Proficient with sword, prefers to use bow and arrows or his talent in a fight.  Started out as Basile's assistant in her duties as Seneschal and took over for her when she left the Hidden Valley.  He handles much of the nuts and bolts of keeping things actually running in the HV and does his own part to keep everyone working together.   Naturally charming, polite, apparently accommodating.   He prefers to leave everyone feeling that they've gotten the better part of the bargain, however he can be ruthless if he needs to be.   He had only occasional problems carrying out Beliel's orders, mostly the ones he considered wasteful or ill considered.   Uninterested in personal power, prefers to pull strings.   He did try to lead Beliel away from his more...blatant miscalculations.  After Beliel's disappearence, Morn has tried to keep the High City government continuing and has continued to pick up more of the strings after Doleera's breakdown. Clearance: Lee Madsen

Nightjoy: F, H-blue-black, E-bright green. [Stormrider.] Daughter of Frostfire and Icewhip, b. NH 60. Glider, bonded to Starskimmer (hawk). Skilled at hawkriding and hawk care, hunting, scouting, etiquette, first aid. Likes partying, dancing, prospecting, and star-watching. Intelligent, a straight-shooter, confident in herself and her abilities. Unconsciously sensual. Keeps a wary eye on mindgames, and tries to avoid being pulled into undesirable ones. Hates being ignorant of important goings-on; prefers to be in the know. Likes Doleera and is loyal to her; would take any replacement of the Stormrider badly. Impatient with "clueless" people. Very social and a people-person. Skilled in social graces, but doesn't always use them. Enjoys sex, but has certain standards; prefers intelligent, attractive, self-assured lovers. Uncomfortable being an object of adoration; has never fallen head-over-heels for someone and not sure she wants to. Loves clothing and jewelry. Clearance: Cyndy Haywood

Otter: F, H-dark brown/black, E-warm sherry brown. Granddaughter of Darkriver. Weaver, does some clothing design and manufacture. Tools leather, but hasn't learned tanning yet. Gardens. Very much a keep-to-herself person. Would rather be out studying plant and animal life than socializing. Fascinated by nature; has as of yet found no real use for "boys"; just beginning to flirt. Close to her immediate family, few other friends. Mischievous and "wicked" once you get past her barriers, one you don't want to get on the bad side of. Terribly cunning. Has the potential to be a rebel/troublemaker. Absolutely fearless, but also has a sharp eye out for saving her own skin. Clearance:

Rainmist (aka "Pet"): F, H-light brown, E-blue. Mother of Windstorm. Weaver, seamstress; good at stealth, woodcraft, spying, gossip, flirting and lovemaking. Self-centered, self-serving and opportunistic. Saw her chance for social advancement and higher prestige by getting in tight with the "High Ones." She is a willing sex toy and servant to all the High City elite. Indiscriminate when it comes to sex as long as it helps to further her goals; also acts as a spy and informer. Puts on a good act to maintain her tribe's trust. Clearance:

Redmane: M, H-Deep rich red, E-Very pale blue. [Chieftain of Deathwater Falls elves] Strong sender but no dependent powers (so far). R mate of Starcall (D); father of Reedweaver, Graytail and Starchaser (uR), son of Steelsheen and Oaksblood (both D); cousin of Heartseeker. Skilled warrior, clever tactician. Not a strategist, though. A competent leader trying to follow in the footsteps of brilliant legendary forebears; always vaguely discontented because of this, never feeling as if he quite measured up. This hidden longing for "greatness," plus a well-developed appetite for the physical pleasures, were the weaknesses by which the Exiles snared him and thus secured the services of his tribe. Strongly wants to believe the Exiles' assurances that he is worthy of (eventually) rising to "High One" status. Most of his tribe has remained loyal to Redmane and thus to the Exiles; of the rest, most left with Flintrock after he challenged Redmane and lost. For his part Redmane has not forgotten his people and will champion them strongly whenever he feels it necessary. And if he delegates some of the more tedious duties, well . . . Reedweaver does those kind of things better than he does anyway. Though the Exiles will not risk Redmane in battle outside the Hidden Valley (he is too vital to their hold on his tribe), he does have an important role in coordinating the Valley's defensive forces. Clearance: Margaret Dean

Reedweaver: F, H-Brick red, E-blue. Daughter of Starcall (D) and Redmane; half-sister of Graytail and Starchaser. Responsible for tribal provisioning for first Deathwater Falls, then for the Hidden Valley as a whole. Efficiency Is Her Life. Intelligent, capable, hard-working, loves detail, has an eidetic memory. A martyr rather a complainer. Sometimes referred to as The Ice Maiden or The Icicle. Has never had her physical side awakened; doesn't take teasing well or really understand it. Privately despises The Stormrider and her oh-so-superior band, but pretty good at hiding these feelings. Clearance: Ree Moorhead Pruehs

Shade: M, H-white/gold, E-pale arctic blue. Brother of Frostfire. Healer. Bowyer/fletcher, beadmaker, herbalist, hunting/gathering skills. His other notable skill is knowing when to keep his mouth shut. Introspective, thoughtful personality, almost always calm. Takes nothing at face value. Probably too bright for his own good; outwardly goes along with his tribe's beliefs, but inwardly disturbed by what he sees. Likes a good joke, loves to dance and to flirt. Good with kids, good storyteller. A pacifist in the extreme; would not take the life of another elf even if it meant his own death. NOTE: Leaves Hidden Valley with Basile and Heartseeker in NH 126. Clearance: Joyce Norton

Starchaser: M, H-White-blond, E-hazel. Stormrider, moderate glider, strong animal bonder. Son of Firebloom and Redmane [oR]; half-brother of Reedweaver, (half?) brother of Graytail. Lovemated (on and off) to Winddance.  Excellent archer. Exhilarated, exuberant, hedonistic; lavishes himself in all of life's pleasures by diving into them headfirst. Cannot resist a dare. Good reflexes, fast on the uptake, quick with a comeback. Witty, with a fiery drive. Honest, utterly tactless, transparently free of harmful intent. Rebellious to "established" tradition. Fears little, attracted to danger. Disappears / presumed dead in NH 230, an apparent victim of the "Ghost Hawk". Clearance: Ree Moorhead Pruehs

Starling: F, H-Reddish blond, E-Deep forest green. Strong glider, minor treeshaper. Daughter of Doleera and Treetall. Superb archer, competent hawkrider. A bit on the willful side; intelligent, cunning, fiercely loyal. Selfish, narcissistic, crafty, manipulative; will stir things up sometimes, just to see if she can. Does not like being used, particularly against either parent; stubborn and easily wounded. Comes to New Hope in NH 123. Clearance: Dale Beaver

Sundancer: F, H-golden blond, E-sky blue. Daughter of Sungold and Keeneye (D), b. NH -71; sister of Woodwise. Skilled at weaving, beading, sewing, hairdressing, makeup, flattery, gossip/intrigue, dancing. Vain, bubbly, very much a lover of creature comforts. Bright but not a genius, good at reading people. Manipulative. Jealous of her sister. No inclination for weapons or fighting, and knows it. A coquette and flirt, bordering on tease; has many suitors. Cannot deal with her mother's death and its implications; though she grieved on her own, she remains devoutly loyal to Lord Beliel and the Stormrider. Clearance: Cyndy Haywood

Sungold: F, H-Golden blonde, E-Sky-blue. [Handmaiden to Basile.] R mate of Keeneye (D), mother of Sundancer and Woodwise. Lovely; innocently vain, personally loyal. Not a particularly deep thinker. Nominally in Basile's personal service, in practice available as a bedmate to any of the High City "aristocracy." Very attached to Basile. When her old lovemate Heartseeker turned up on a spying mission and Recognized Basile, Sungold helped them escape the Hidden Valley. Beliel learned of this and punished Sungold by turning her into the first of his Meditation Garden statues. Clearance: Margaret Dean

Sweetberry: H-Light brown, E-Midnight blue. R mate of <>; mother of Tailshadow (D). Sister of Treetall. Has extensive knowledge of herbalism and plant lore; some gardening; dyer, symbol-maker, storyteller. Normally a cheerful, sweet-natured elf; her daughter's disappearance and presumed death (since she never returned to the holt) cast a shadow on her personality. Mistrusted the Exiles on sight, especially Beliel, for reasons she could not explain, but has kept her own counsel on this, confiding only in Darkriver and possibly her lifemate, and gone along with the tribe. Not one to make waves, but she has also done nothing, since the move to the Hidden Valley, to attract the "High Ones"' attention to her. She does love their new home and especially the hometree grove. Clearance: Margaret Dean

Swiftshot: M, H-black, E-black. Farsighted. Excellent archer; stealthy and a good tracker. Can hunt, tan, and sew with some proficiency, knows basic herblore, makes arrows. Somewhat gruff and taciturn, but can get excited about something he likes. Sarcastic sense of humor but doesn't like to insult people. Tries to be cynical and rough but is actually a nice guy, more sensitive than he'd ever let on. Selected for warrior training because of his archery skills and is not about to give up this hard-won honor. Not quick to judge people, remains doubtful till they prove themselves. A little self-centered, likes to keep up his "tough guy" image. Clearance:

Treetall: M, H-Butter blond, E-Blue-green. Skilled treeshaper. uR mate of Amber-eyes (D); R mate of Doleera, father of Starling. Brother of Sweetberry. Proficient herbalist, very skillful archer; also excellent carver and woodworker. An elder of Deathwater Falls Holt, unusually tall for his tribe. Takes his responsibilities as an elder very seriously. Was essentially the holt "monk" between the death of his chosen lifemate and Recognition to Doleera. Is brought to New Hope in NH 96 by Doleera, who (incorrectly) believes an attempt has been made on his life. Clearance: Ree Moorhead Pruehs

Woodwise: F, H-white blond, E-warm grey. Treeshaper. Daughter of Sungold and Keeneye (D), sister of Sundancer. Hunter, tracker, knows woodscraft and herbalism. Playful, lighthearted, a skilled flirt. Something of a chatterbox and gossip. Excellent huntress, on a hunt she's a different person: serious, focused, in charge. Can hold a grudge, but it takes a good deal to get her to that point. Tends to "go with the flow." An optimist. Believed in the "High Ones" unquestioningly until Sungold's death; after that, followed Heartseeker and Basile to New Hope to offer her services as a spy. Clearance: Cyndy Haywood
 
 

==================== TAIAKAARI CONSULATE ====================

Arteuran (called "Lakaaza" by the Taiakaari): M, H-White, E-Pink (albino). R mate of Shadowfern (D), father of Dove, Feather, Ghosthunter, Ghostdancer, Firesong; former lovemate of Eliurin (D). Spiritual leader of the Taiakaari, Talent-master to Masque, primary diplomatic envoy from Taiakaar to the Hidden Valley. Powerful healing and sending skills, with a slew of related skills at high levels. A highly skilled artist in many media and a devoted packrat. Nonconformist. Innovative. Fertile-minded. Bizarre. Arty. Outrageous. Loves a good challenge. Doesn't put up with much in the way of pomp and circumstance; not impressed in any way by authority, office, position, etc. Loves to be the center of attention. And usually is, if he has anything to say about it. Clearance: Ree Moorhead Pruehs

Lodestar (also called "Kizhuneko" and "Lakaazashiro-xalu" by the Taiakaari): M, H-Medium red-brown, E-Grey-green. Healer; has exact sense of direction. Son of Kestrel and Starsinger, brother of Lark, soulbrother of Lyeth/Masque. Herbalist, musician. Has a strong sense of right and wrong coupled with a healer's natural compassion, though can seem outwardly brusque at times. Usually gets along well with others. Insightful and occasionally intuitive, but mostly pragmatic. Protective of Lyeth; his stability serves as an anchor to Lyeth's fits of temperament. While he doesn't care for some aspects of living with the Exiles, he puts up with it for Lyeth's sake. When Lyeth apprentices to Arteuran, Lodestar is content to stick around and act as the ancient healer's lab assistant/grad student, picking up what advanced healing knowledge he can and at the same time keeping an eye on his soulbrother. Honest by nature, with a good deal of moral courage. He is one either to speak the truth or to keep his mouth shut; he generally has enough sense to know when to do the latter.  Eventually moves to New Hope after his soulbrother Recognizes a New Hope elf.  Clearance: Margaret Dean

Masque (called "Stalky" by Lodestar, "Kiriima" or "Lakaazashiro" by the Taiakaari): M, H-light brown, E-Changeable blue/grey/violet. [Apprentice to Arteuran]. Limited self-shaper who can take on the form of other elves (see CIS for full explanation). Father of Foxtail (unbeknownst to him), and later, Mistkit. Son of Ylla Dawnchild and Mist, soulbrother of Lodestar. The so-called "secret weapon" of the Exiles. A devoted Romantic, prone to Adolescent Angst, with fits of immaturity, moodiness, temperament, dramatics and power-tripping. This has been relieved, somewhat, by his apprenticeship to Arteuran (which has included, amongst other things, the rigors of a Taiakaari monastic novitiate). He now has a certain amount of self-discipline and self-confidence, but his is still a nature prone to strong emotion, either "up" or "down" with very little in between.   Eventually moves to New Hope after Recognizing Snowflower during the Battle of New Hope.  Clearance: Margaret Dean.
 
 

============= MISCELLANEOUS =============

Kanwar: M, H - Black, E - Black.  Originally from Godling's Reach.  Strongly built for a Reach elf, catlike moves.  Warrior, strategist; poet.  Has a knack for languages; has a good ear and picks them up quickly.  Brooding.  Byronic.  A brilliant military strategist who finds no real outlet for his talents in the formalized dueling structures of the Reach.  Has no particular desire for power as such, but finds something compelling in the art of war.  Can be sneaky, but won't be treacherous; considers that cheating and therefore beneath him.  Has a touchy pride and an uncertain temper.  His poetry tends to be either love lyrics or nature poetry; it's a release for him.  A fierce, possessive, but tender lover.  Clearence: Margaret Dean

Lascha:  Human, F; H - Black, E - Dark brown.  Lascha was born in the Hidden Valley and her skill with herbs won her a position in the High City's infirmary, and it was there that she met and fell in love with Rionu, a young Taiakaari nobleman on Journey who had run afoul of the defenses of the Hidden Valley.  Their determination to marry eventually led to formal diplomatic contact between the Hidden Valley and Taiakaar.   Once in Taiakaar, underground rumors spread of her skill with "potions".  Lascha is affectionate and fiercely protective toward her husband, children, and friends.  She is keenly aware of status and its outward symbols, and while she is not status-hungry or a social climber, she knows what is due her and her family, and will take whatever steps are necessary to insure that they get it.  When dispensing her potions, she is largely indifferent to the purposes for which the recipients intend to use them, insisting only that the more questionable (and possibly illegal) concoctions not be traceable to her.  Clearence: Margaret Dean

Sudu: H - Medium brown, E - Dark grey.  Strong sender, good at both projecting and receiving.  Has elementary mind-stun and the beginnings of deep-sense, both of which could be developed with practice.  Has recently proved capable of astral projection and really wants some training in this technique.  Knows beekeeping, baking.  Also gives terrific backrubs.  Dabbles in philosophy, mysticism, music, flower gardening.  Like Tyvek and Kanwar, an emigrant from Godling's Reach who didn't feel he fit in there.  Deeply interested in ethics; ready to question any assumption and see how far he can push it. Quiet and soft-spoken, with a very understated sense of humor that you can miss if you blink.  Even-tempered and cheerful for the most part; on the rare occasions he gets angry, it's a cold, silent anger.  When he's hot on the trail of an idea, he becomes intense.  Clearence: Margaret Dean

Tiamath: F, H-butter blond, E-jade green (in life). [Hidden Valley's resident ghost] Rockshaper. Daughter of Aldyth and Uhar (both D); cousin of Piet. Deceased; now a disembodied spirit inhabiting the rock of the Hidden Valley. While physically living, playful and yet a little proud, ladylike with a bit of a temper. Hidden Valley was the end-all and be-all to her. A "daddy's girl," she was sure she would inherit her father's rockshaping abilities. And she did . . . the day trolls sacked the original HV settlement. She managed to collapse an arch on pursuers, then was killed while still magically linked to the rock. In shock, her spirit took refuge in the Hidden Valley itself. There it remained "asleep" until the arrival of the Exiles and their use of rockshaping magic pulled her back to individual awareness. Not at all pleased with the invasion and rearrangement of her home, though she does eventually make friends with Basile. Especially after Basile leaves, she begins a campaign of harassment designed to drive out these intruders. Clearance: Cyndy Haywood

Tyvek: H - Light brown, E - Blue-green. Rockshaper.  Nephew of Torivek (D) R. mate of Keshir, father of (?) Tyvek and his two close friends, Sudu and Kanwar, are young elves of Godlings' Reach who've become dissatisfied with Reach society and decided to leave the Reach and seek their fortune (and scope for their talents) elsewhere. Tyvek is the extrovert of the three.  He wants to build . . . somewhere where there's room for it. Tyvek's customary light patter conceals considerable intelligence. Socially, he is quick to pick up undercurrents and innuendoes.  While not malicious, he's rather self-centered; well-mannered more because it oils the wheels of social intercourse than because of a sincere regard for others' feelings. Delicately sensual, sensitive to textures; also to tastes and smells.  A sincere lover of beauty. Clearence: Margaret Dean
 

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