Sound of Running Feet’s grandfather and former chief of the Nez Perce, whose legacy includes giving her a rifle for protection.

Chief of the Nez Perce tribe, focused on the well-being of his people and attempting diplomatic reasoning with the white soldiers.

A friend of Sound of Running Feet, who does not have a particularly developed character but serves to highlight the cruelty of the white soldiers.

A white settler challenged by Sound of Running Feet, showcasing her bravery early in the novel.

A priest and war chief of a small band of the Nez Perce called the Roamers, known for his fierce warrior spirit and leadership in battle.

The one-armed leader of the white soldiers, serving as the main antagonist with a ruthless approach toward the Nez Perce.

Sound of Running Feet’s fiancé, who begins as a painter and becomes a fierce warrior with the Red Coats.

One of the Red Coats, driven by a desire for revenge against the whites for his father’s death.

Another member of the Red Coats, whose actions precipitate the war with the white soldiers.

Sound of Running Feet’s uncle and the best warrior in the tribe, who hopes to protect his people through his skills.

The mother of Sound of Running Feet, who is pregnant at the novel’s start and later gives birth to Bending Willow.

A captured white soldier who experiences the treatment of the Nez Perce firsthand and communicates with his soldiers.

An Assiniboin man who aids Sound of Running Feet and Swan Necklace during their travels, providing supplies.

The son of Red Elk and a fierce warrior with an interest in Sound of Running Feet, seeking his own path to impress her.

The wife of Red Elk, who shows kindness and helps Sound of Running Feet understand Assiniboin customs.

A war chief of the Nez Perce with foresight into his people's danger, identifiable by the looking glass he wears.

The young war chief who assumes leadership from Looking Glass and makes crucial decisions about the tribe’s movements.