Prince Ellidyr Son of Pen-Llarcau was an arrogant young prince, the last son of his line, who received no inheritance apart from "his name and his sword". He was deeply sensitive about his poverty, and covered this with arrogance, treating with disdain and contempt all whom he did not see as social equals. Ellidyr's closest and indeed sole companion was his ill-tempered steed Islimach, who would bear no rider but him.