Salamander was born in to an over-populated pack in the early winter months, completely unplanned, and mostly unwanted. She struggled to survive, managing to outlive her siblings as well as her near-ancient parents, and was adopted by a warmongering uncle, who gave her the nickname of "Salamander". At the earliest convenience she struck out on her own, and has been surviving this way ever since.

She encountered the wolves of the Spine and was welcomed by Tonravik to join them. Following a massive storm which tore through the wilds, Salamander was displaced and wounded.