The Immortals (Pierce series)
| Industry | Literature |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1992 |
| Products | Fantasy novels |
The Immortals series by Tamora Pierce centers on Veralidaine Sarrasri (commonly known as Daine), an orphan gifted with the uncommon talent of animal communication.[1]
Books
Overview
Daine departs from her homeland, Galla, accompanied by her pony Cloud, journeying to the realm of Tortall. There, she uncovers her "Wild Magic"—a unique ability that allows her to converse with animals, heal them, and transform into various creatures. Throughout her adventure, she forms important connections with influential individuals including the mage Numair Salmalin, the dragon Skysong, the famed Lioness Alanna of Trebond, as well as King Jonathan and Queen Thayet.
Primary
- Veralidaine "Daine" Sarrasri: The central figure endowed with wild magic granting her the power to communicate with and shapeshift into animals.[1] Originating from Snowsdale in Galla, she is the offspring of Weiryn, a minor deity associated with hunting. Initially apprehensive about her abilities, Daine gradually gains mastery and shifts her perspective on magical beings such as Stormwings. She also features in Pierce’s Protector of the Small and Daughter of the Lioness narratives.
- Numair Salmalin: A formidable mage characterized by his brown skin and black robes, possessing shapeshifting capabilities. Though calm in demeanor, he experiences deep emotional intensity. As Daine’s mentor and eventual spouse,[2] they share two children. Previously, he was a friend turned adversary of Emperor Ozorne.
- Onua Chamtong: The trader and horse mistress for the Queen’s Riders who employs Daine. A survivor of domestic violence, Onua wields both the Gift and partial Wild Magic, including skills in concealment. She maintains alliances with Numair and Alanna.
- Ozorne: The merciless Emperor of Carthak until his transformation into a Stormwing at the conclusion of Emperor Mage. A potent mage with an affinity for animals, he stands as Numair’s rival.
- Kaddar: The prince of Carthak who ascends to emperor following Emperor Mage. Though initially formal in manner, he reveals a compassionate nature and opposes his uncle while rescuing Daine during a pivotal encounter.
Immortals
- Skysong (also known as Kitten): A young dragon whose mother perished during the battle at Pirate's Swoop in Wild Magic. Originally stillborn, Skysong was revived when Daine healed her mother and has since become her protector. Despite their close bond, Skysong requires discipline from fellow dragons and is destined to return to their home in the Divine Realms. She exhibits advanced talents such as unlocking whistled locks, detecting invisibility spells, and sensing magical surveillance.
- Tkaa: A basilisk who forged a friendship with Daine in Dunlath. He acts as an envoy to the Copper Isles in Daughter of the Lioness and instructs immortals in Protector of the Small. His confrontation with Numair showcased his strength when he temporarily petrified him; after Numair’s recovery, they became allies. Tkaa’s skin resembles shifting gray droplets forming intricate patterns.
- Rikash Moonsword: A Stormwing introduced in Wolf-Speaker, Rikash becomes an ally to Daine and lends his name to her son in Trickster's Queen. Known for his teasing nature towards Daine, he also displays uncommon kindness by offering comfort during difficult times. He holds a protective attitude toward Maura of Dunlath, whom he considers under his care.
- Barzha Razorwing: A Stormwing queen imprisoned alongside her consort Hebekah by Ozorne in Carthak. They are liberated at the end of Emperor Mage and form an alliance with Daine. Daine unintentionally discloses their survival to Rikash, surprising him as their species believed they had died honorably.
Animals
- Cloud: Daine’s steadfast pony, present since before the storyline begins. While Cloud exhibits a strong-willed nature, her loyalty remains unwavering. Daine first uncovered her wild magic abilities through Cloud. After repeatedly biting Daine, some of this wild magic was transferred to Cloud, which enhanced the pony’s cognitive skills. Additionally, Cloud can channel energy back to Daine, as shown at the conclusion of Wild Magic, allowing Daine to overcome the Stormwing Queen Zhaneh Bitterclaws.
- Tahoi: A large canine who assists Onua and Daine in managing horse trails. Tahoi once saved Onua from domestic violence and displays fierce loyalty to a single woman but also accepts Daine’s presence. Expert at protecting ponies and adept at dodging their kicks, Tahoi plays a crucial role in their work.
- Zekoi: A pygmy marmoset that Daine rescued from crocodiles during Emperor Mage. Intrigued by keys, Zekoi vowed never to be parted from them after his captivity. He later uses these keys to liberate Daine from Ozorne’s prison, proving to be an invaluable ally.
Others
- Sarra Beneksri: Daine’s mother, who died prior to the events of Wild Magic. She transforms into The Green Lady, a minor deity associated with women and childbirth, and was wed to Weiryn. Formerly a midwife, Sarra possessed the Gift.
- Weiryn: Daine’s father and a minor god linked to hunting, typically appearing human with antlers. Although Daine refrains from eating game after the early books, Weiryn provides her with a bow and a magical staff for Numair to aid their quest in The Realms of the Gods.