...for even within sight of Dark Forest gates, Rockjaw Grang was a perilous hare.—
Rockjaw Grang was a large male hare of the Long Patrol under Lady Cregga Rose Eyes, and the eldest son of Goodwife Grang. Having originated from the Northlands, he was sometimes referred to as the "Giant of the North" and spoke with a pronounced accent. Despite his fearsome appearance, he was a gentle giant with Dibbuns. Rockjaw was deadly accurate with his massive yew longbow, and was popular with many Long Patrol members. Due to his great size, he could kill foes simply by kicking them in the neck.
Rockjaw was a member of Major Perigord Habile Sinistra's patrol. When Tammo and Midge Manycoats infiltrated the Rapscallion camp, Rockjaw served as their connection to Redwall Abbey, staying hidden and working as a messenger. He was contacted by Taunoc.
During Midge, Tammo, and Fourdun's escape from the camp, Rockjaw was mortally wounded shielding Midge from a spear thrown by Rinkul. Tammo quickly avenged both Rockjaw and Russa by killing Rinkul with his spear. Rockjaw then ordered Midge, Tammo, and Fourdun to retreat to Redwall while he bought them some time, knowing he was beyond saving. He killed dozens of vermin with his arrows before he was finally surrounded, then made his final stand by tearing the spear out of his side and charging. Tammo, Midge, and the rest of the Long Patrol mourned his death.
Rockjaw named Russano the Wise by combining Russa Nodrey's first name and the first two letters of her surname.
Post-Death[]
After his death, Rockjaw appeared in a dream to the infant Russano, instructing him to remember the warriors of Redwall and Salamandastron as he ages into adulthood.
Trivia[]
- Rockjaw Grang's surname may be derived from the Old English term “Grange”, which means “farmlands”.