 Mishanti, being an orphan and lacking any proof that he is sentient, is taken in by Thistle-chaser who will raise him and bring out his hidden sentience.The Named are a group of prehistoric sentient large cats; they call themselves a clan and are led by the female Ratha.The clan herds creatures and uses them as livestock, and also have fire, which they call "Red Tongue", which they use for heat and protection.