Waterlily
Waterlily is the daughter of Blue Bird. Her father, Star Elk, denies her mother after Waterlily is born. Under her grandmother’s coaching, Waterlily grows up to become a respectable young woman who honors her family’s tradition. Shortly after her marriage to Sacred Horse, her husband dies of smallpox and her relatives are killed by a war party. Waterlily (who is now pregnant), returns home with her sister-in-law, Echo.
Blue Bird
Blue Bird and her grandmother, Killed-by-Tree, are separated from White Ghost, their original tribe. Blue Bird gets married to Star Elk and bears a daughter, Waterlily. Shortly after, Star Elk denies her for giving birth to a girl instead of a son. Blue Bird traces her original tribe and takes her grandmother with her. Killed-by-Tree dies weeks after their reunion with the White Ghost.
Rainbow
Rainbow is a well-respected member of the White Ghost. After their ceremonious return, Rainbow marries Blue Bird and introduces her to his family. The couple has two more children, Ohiya and Smiling. Rainbow is compassionate and treats his children equally.
Gloku
Gloku is the matriarch in Rainbow’s family. She is particularly fond of her daughter-in-law, Blue Bird. Gloku teaches Waterlily the rules and customs of her people especially a woman’s role in her community. She also stresses the importance of family and respect. When Waterlily comes of age, Gloku feels proud of the woman she has become.
Lowanla
Lowanla is a young man from Waterlily’s childhood. After Waterlily returns home, Lowanla marries her and assumes the role of father to Mitawa, Waterlily’s son. The couple lives a full and happy life.
