Tristam (Tristan) Son of King Melyodas de Lyones and the sister of King Mark of Cornwall; his name means "sorrowful-born." He kills Marhault to free his uncle from a debt owed to King Angwyssh of Ireland. He then falls in love with Isode (Isolde), Angwyssh's daughter, for whom he fights Palomydes. Isode who later marries Tristam's uncle Mark, although he and Isode remain lovers. Also known as The Knight with the Black Shield when sent into exile by Mark, Tristam fights and beats many of Arthur's knights. Through a series of tricks and misunderstandings, he fights Launcelot beside the old tomb of Lanceor, where Merlin earlier prophesied that the two greatest knights — and greatest friends — would duel. They recognize each other and stop fighting; Lancelot takes Tristam back to Camelot, where he is made a knight at the Round Table.
Palomydes Isode's suitor, whom Tristam defeats over and over. They are imprisoned together, along with Dynadin. Palomydes later protects King Mark when no one else will, although he, too, soon becomes disgusted with Mark. Palomydes avenges the death of the king of the Red City and eventually befriends Launcelot and Tristam.
Andret Tristram's cousin, who sides with Mark.
Nineve A maiden brought by Pellanore into court. Merlin falls in love with her, but she refuses him. She does, however, learn much of his magical secrets and kills him by magically sealing him in a cave. She is also called the Damsel of the Lake.
Pellas King Pellam's son. Nineve puts a spell on him, and they live happily together.
King Damas A cowardly king who seizes knights and tries to force them to fight against his brother.
Ywain Morgan le Fay's son; he keeps her from killing her husband, King Uriens. He and Gawain are close friends. Arthur banishes Ywain from Camelot, but he later welcomes him back. On the Grail Quest, Gawain unintentionally kills Ywain.
Manessen Accolon's cousin, whom Morgan le Fay saves from an execution.
Marhault A man who is said to scorn all women. In a tournament with Gawain and Ywain, he is valiant.
