Ri'neref is the first of the D'ni kings, as well as the Writer of the Age of D'ni (Earth).

Ri'neref was born on Garternay, home of the Ronay. He early on became a great Writer, and a leader of a small fraction of the Ronay. During his life it became known that Gartneray, an ancient world orbiting a dying sun, would soon become unable to support life, and plans were made for the Ronay to emigrate to other Ages. Most left for the paradise Age of Terahnee, but Ri'neref and his followers believed that the Ronay had become too prideful in their mastery of the Art, and should seek humility and meekness in their new Age.

Ri'neref and his followers stood fast to their principles and fled to an Age Written by Ri'neref: the Age of Earth. Rather than a paradise, this Age was a massive underground cavern (under present-day New Mexico, USA). The cavern held only a few large islands and a massive lake, where bioluminescent algae made its habitat and gave precious little light to the refugees. This was perfect for Ri'neref's followers. Ri'neref named the Age "D'ni" (meaning "New Start" in the Ronay tongue), and the newly founded D'ni people began making it their home.

Reluctantly he accepted the position and title of "King", although he soon resigned in favour of his chosen heir Ailesh.