Kirsti grew up in the village of Suri-Kyla, the daughter of a renowned huntsman, Riku. She was not far behind in years to one of her aunts Lahja, and though they often were of company to each other, they differed quite considerably. Kirsti showed signs of deep curiosity from an early age, a trait perhaps acquired not only from her father but from her aunt, Rhoana. Nearing her tenth winter, a change occurred in the day to day lives of the large family. Kirsti had to contend with the sudden disappearance of Rhoana, to which her father knew more then was willing to share. Rhoana’s leaving confirmed her reputation as an oddity, but this only piqued Kirsti’s interests. Not long after her aunt’s departure, she acquired a gift and one which would soon become a close companion. Jäljitää, a gift from the Ilves-heimo, became a valued companion to Kirsti. A snow lynx used to route out prey, an esteemed and treasured aid for hunts. Her bonds to the animal grew more then that and Jäljitää was often seen at her side, elsewhere from such endeavours. During the next seven winters, Rhoana returned occasionally to visit. During those times she would often tell stories to the younger members of the family, mainly stories of the lands of afar; of other peoples and their customs, the lands she had seen and of lush green grasses. Even as Kirri grew older, she loved to know more, and enjoyed whatever stories she could hear; no matter how short. Kirsti, nearer her coming of age, learnt more about the rituals of her people and actively participated in them when necessary. Amongst these she became interested in the ones over-looking the well being of health and wounds. She learnt to utilise what was available to her, to tend injuries and over see the recovery of ailed folk and animals.