In alphabetical order by first name.
The Consort of the Spire series (Rhime) only
Aengus (Thanatos)
The deceased son of the witch Brónach, Aengus is a lingering spirit bound to the mortal realm by love and grief. Though long dead, he remains at his mother’s side, offering silent companionship as she searches for a way to break her curse. Aengus’s presence serves as a tether to Brónach’s lost humanity and a symbol of the emotional wounds that shape her. He holds knowledge beyond death and becomes a crucial link between the living and the spiritual realms.
Agar (AMS, Koen)
Gruff, big-bellied, and always ready with a crude joke, Agar is a loyal Knight of Norn and Brant’s closest companion since their shared childhood experience in the swamps of Norn. Though fond of drink, dice, and hearty meals, his dedication to Brant and their shared cause of protecting Erik never wavers. Beneath his rowdy exterior lies a seasoned warrior with a sharp mind and a dependable heart. In battle or in banter, Agar is the kind of ally you want at your side.
Jarl Agris of Thorne (AMS, Thanatos)
Agris is the ruler of the Northling territory of Thornhold and Jarl of the Northland’s Circle of Eight. He is the father of Rachel, the wife of Prince Koen. This makes him the maternal grandfather of Erikson Gray. A shrewd and pragmatic leader, Agris is often torn between principle and necessity, especially amid the rising tensions and costs of the post-rebellion world, where siding with Prince Koen has left the Northlands in a precarious situation with the rest of the empire. Though capable of harsh decisions, he occasionally shows a more measured side, seeking to balance honor with political survival.
Ailis (AMS)
Ailis is a half-blood smuggler and guide, born of the Forest People and the Treubhan Beinne (Mountain Tribes), known for her deep knowledge of the wilds and her fierce independence. She lives in Redkeep, where she trades in contraband, secrets, and safe passage through dangerous terrain. Armed with her twin daggers—Pick and Whistle—she is swift, silent, and deadly when crossed. Despite her rugged life, Ailis dreams of one day leaving it all behind to own a vineyard on the southern coast.
Alistair Garrish of Fermount (Rhime)
Close Ally to Rhime Battenborn, Alistair is the duke of the fertile lands amongst the branches of the Red River known as Fermount Grove. He is a practical man who values substance over style. He will go on to become the first Garrish King.
Count Alric Lysena (Rhime)
Count Alric is the weary and pragmatic lord of House Lysena, burdened by debt and dwindling influence. Though he loves his daughter, Evaline, he reluctantly agrees to marry her off to Rhime of Eldenspire to preserve his standing and secure the future of his house. His decision haunts him, a quiet testament to the sacrifices demanded by nobility and survival. Alric is a man caught between paternal love and political necessity, and he carries the weight of that choice with somber dignity, but his choice will come to haunt him.
Anderson (AMS, Koen)
The Lion’s surgeon, Anderson, is a former minor official from Milgarden who was once taken hostage during a ransom scheme. When no one paid for his return, he remained with the crew and eventually earned his place through medical skill. He studied at Thanatos in his youth, giving him a rare blend of anatomical knowledge and practical training. Though not a warrior, he is protected and respected by the crew for his indispensable role. Quietly observant and dry-witted, Anderson performs his duties with precision and grim efficiency.
Artemus Payne (AMS)
Artemus Payne is a young engineer and recent graduate of the Alchemist University at Ignis, trained in the design and construction of fortifications. A descendant of the infamous Payne family—once the realm’s feared torturers and executioners—Artemus has renounced his dark heritage following the disgrace of his father, Reynaldus Payne, former Constable of Dinasaur. While traveling to Oakenyard to build a fortress for Prince Eadred, he becomes lost in the Sacred Grove after losing his horse. There, he unexpectedly crosses paths with Erikson Gray, an encounter that alters the course of his journey. Though burdened by a notorious lineage, Artemus seeks to forge a new legacy through creation, not cruelty.
Grand Marshal Astros (AMS)
The bastard half-brother of Empress Constance, Astos is the head of the Legion, the group charged with carrying out the emperor’s dirty work. No mission is too grim for the Legion, and they are known far and wide for their atrocity. After their actions during the rebellion, Emperor Vesper had to distance himself from Astros and his Legion. But he has now been called back from exile to carry out one last mission: find Erikson Gray.
Avery (Thanatos)
Brother Avery is Abbot Reynolds’ personal attendant. He is a layman, not a monk, which frees him from the rules that govern the brotherhood.
Babak (Koen)
Babak is a wealthy and influential figure in Dinasaur who operates under the guise of a merchant. He is known for his lavish attire, commanding presence, and sharp tongue. Babak owns the saltpeter fields surrounding the city and resides in a secretive, well-guarded estate hidden behind a modest entrance. Though often underestimated, he is deeply entrenched in the city’s economic and political undercurrents.
Baily (Thanatos)
A sharp-tongued vagrant who once led the infamous Red Hands, a guild that blurs the line between begging and assassination. Though fallen from power, Bailey remains deeply connected to the underworld of Shadowrock and is known for his cunning, sarcasm, and streetwise instincts. He often offers unsolicited advice—sometimes helpful, sometimes manipulative—and has a knack for pulling others into his schemes.
Barac of House Rhys (AMS)
Barac is the last surviving member of House Rhys, one of the fallen twelve kingdoms. As a child, he was given as a ward to House Zulikaarme after his father bent the knee to Emperor Vesper—an act of capitulation meant to preserve wealth and life, but one that ended in disgrace and ruin. Barac was raised in Redbourne, a desolate outpost near the Fiery Steppes, where he endured thirteen brutal years of hardship among the empire’s forgotten wards and castoffs. Though noble by birth, he was treated as a prisoner, later bound in servitude to Astros and his Legion. Hardened by loss and humiliation, Barac wears the yoke of survival with grim pride, a living reminder that some sacrifices never end.
Bartholomew (AMS)
Nephew of Sathanas and heir to his empire, Bartholomew was entrusted with the legendary sword Ljós Leggja. Haunted by the fate it dealt his uncle, he sought to destroy it—but the blade resisted all efforts. Determined to learn its origins, he embarked on a perilous quest to find Aspar, the Nephilim swordsmith said to have forged it. Bartholomew vanished during this journey, with the lone survivor, Dirk of Battenborne, claiming he was driven mad by Oathtakers and fell through a chasm, taking Ljós Leggja with him. His disappearance sparked a civil war among Sathanas’s five sons, ushering in the turbulent Five Kingdoms Period.
Reeve Bedric of House Ooldwet (AMS)
A minor scion of the once-notable House Ooldwet of Eldenspire, Bedric hails from a lineage that served as cupbearers to the Garrish Kings during the Twelve Kingdoms Period. Though far removed from the main line, his survival and rise to the position of reeve, especially in a distant and politically sensitive region, speaks to his cunning and opportunism. Known for burrowing into power like a tick, Bedric has maneuvered himself into relevance despite his house’s fall from grace and suspected sympathies with the rebel prince Sylvanus. His corpulent, jovial appearance belies a man skilled in political survival and quiet influence.
King Berwyn Anworth (AMS)
King Berwyn Anworth was the last sovereign of House Anworth, whose assassination by agents of the Garrish Kingdom sparked the chain of events that led to Lucardia’s Unification. His daughter, Constance, inherited the throne and later married King Vesper Zulikaarme, forging a powerful alliance that shifted the balance of the Twelve Kingdoms. This union gave Vesper the political and military leverage to strike the Garrish Kingdom decisively, launching a surprise attack on King Tylus while he was away from his army, inspecting his new colony on South Dardark. Caught with only a small guard, Tylus was quickly overwhelmed, a move that shattered Garrish power and paved the way for unification. Berwyn also had a bastard son, Astros FitzRoy, born of an unknown woman and barred from taking the Anworth name.
Bradwen (Koen)
Captain of Blackdown’s city watch.
Brant of Norn (AMS, Koen)
A seasoned Knight of Norn in disguise, he is the steadfast guardian to Erikson Gray. Brant serves as both protector and moral compass throughout Erik’s journey. Loyal, pragmatic, and burdened by past losses, he often acts as the voice of reason amid chaos. Though hardened by years of service, he carries a deep sense of duty and compassion beneath his gruff exterior. Brant’s steady presence anchors the group as they navigate the treacherous path laid before them.
Brónach the Enchantress (Thanatos)
Brónach the Enchantress is a legendary Cailleach, one of the winter witches feared throughout the Northlands. Her dominion brings premature snowfalls, frigid winds, and death by cold to those who wander into her domain unprepared. Though nearly blind from the ice magic that sustains her, she senses the warmth of life and snuffs it out with eerie precision. Her presence is marked by unnatural blizzards and the frozen corpses of her victims, often left twisted in terror. Among witches, Brónach is whispered of as a force of nature—patient, ancient, and cruel.
Caldwell (AMS)
Caldwell is Prince Ivar’s head of household, an oily and self-serving man who has profited from his position while Ivar has been sick. Although he initially attached himself to Ivar due to Ivar’s status as heir, Caldwell later shifted his focus to securing his own influence and gain, aware that Ivar was being poisoned. He made himself indispensable in the eyes of the prince while he has been selling off Ivar’s possessions.
Caleb (Thanatos)
A spirited and fiercely loyal boy, Caleb is Mishal’s closest friend and fellow novice in the Order of Thanatos. Though often impulsive and hot-tempered, his heart is guided by an unwavering sense of justice. Bound by trauma and shared secrets, Caleb and Mishal forge a deep bond during their early training. Caleb’s fate takes a dark turn early in The Novice of Thanatos, but his presence continues to shape Mishal’s journey in profound and unexpected ways.
Caspia (AMS)
A pivotal historical and spiritual figure, Caspia is credited with luring Lucifer from heaven to aid humanity in its struggle against the Nephilim. He later served as advisor to Emperor Sathanas, but when Sathanas descended into madness, Caspia withdrew into exile. Surrounded by a handful of devoted Apostles, he dictated teachings that would become the Boken—the sacred text at the heart of the Caspian Faith. His Apostles spread across Lucardia, carrying his message to the masses. What ultimately became of Caspia remains a mystery, one that unfolds gradually throughout the Absolution of the Morning Star series.
Queen Casandra (AMS)
Casandra is the queen of the Pobl Goedwig (Forest People) and a powerful white witch, entrusted as steward of the Sacred Grove. Deeply rooted in the old ways, she champions tradition and has reluctantly bowed to the emperor to safeguard her people and preserve the grove’s sanctity. Yet her authority is contested—her daughter, Rhiannon, rejects this path, igniting a civil conflict that threatens the very balance Casandra seeks to protect. Casandra’s choices reflect a painful commitment to peace, even as it fractures her realm from within.
Catarina (AMS, Koen)
Catarina, often called the Lioness, is the commanding presence behind the infamous pirate ship the Lion. Known for her strength and shrewdness, she leads a crew of nearly 400 pirates—no small feat in a world where such men follow only those they fear or respect. Her ability to maintain order and loyalty aboard the vessel speaks to a deep tactical mind and a past shaped by careful instruction; someone, once, taught her the art of command well. She is more than a figurehead—Catarina is a force, earning her place not through lineage or legend, but through calculated grit. Her name carries weight across the coasts, whispered with both admiration and fear.
Baroness Catelyn of Frey (Thanatos)
Baroness Catelyn of Frey was the eldest child of the ruling line of Frey Rock, a bleak and wind-scoured island hold known more for its resilience than riches. She relinquished her claim to the Karlship in favor of her younger brother, Cillian, and entered a politically motivated marriage with Agris of Thorne, hoping it would benefit her people. The match was strained and joyless, resulting in a single child, Rachel of Thorne, conceived through violence. Catelyn died in childbirth, her life marked by duty, sacrifice, and the unforgiving weight of circumstance.
Cedric Anworth of Runemaul (Rhime)
Cedric is the cunning and charismatic duke of Runemaul, a master of subtle manipulation and courtly gamesmanship. Though a tentative ally of Duke Rhime, his loyalty remains fluid, shaped by shifting opportunities and long-term ambitions. He uses regional unrest to his advantage, playing both sides to consolidate power. Behind his charm lies a calculating strategist whose ultimate aim is sovereignty—one he eventually achieves by becoming the first king of the Anworth Kingdom.
Karl Cillian Frey (AMS)
Cillian Frey is the stern and battle-hardened Lord of Frey Rock, ruling over the icy northern isles of Lucardia. A member of the Circle of Eight, he is known for his cold pragmatism and unflinching leadership. Brother to the late Baroness Catelyn of Frey—wife of Agris of Thorne—Cillian is Erikson Gray’s great-uncle, though he offers little warmth to his kin. His loyalty lies first with his people, who live a hard and unforgiving existence amongst the cold, wind-swept islands.
Cindersnout (AMS, Jezelle)
Cindersnout is a sharpshooter with hawk-like eyes and an uncanny aim, plucked from the streets of Grafton Notch by Wendell the One Eye after a fateful encounter involving rocks and frogs. Given a bow and a purpose, he quickly rose through the ranks as one of Wendell’s most trusted marksmen. Assigned to work alongside the thief Jezelle, Cindersnout serves as her eyes in the sky, eliminating guards and lookouts with silent precision. His loyalty to Wendell and lethal accuracy make him a vital asset in Grafton Notch’s criminal underworld.
Clem (Jezelle)
Clem is a survivor of brutal circumstances. Despite his eerie demeanor, Clem commands a strange respect among the street children of Grafton Notch, acting as the de facto leader of a hidden enclave in the Gutters known as “the Pocket.” Clem’s authority stems not from force, but from his ability to endure and navigate the bleakest corners of the city.
Empress Constance of Anworth (AMS)
Constance of Anworth was the sovereign of the Anworth Kingdom and the consort of Emperor Vesper, remembered as the mother of Ivar, Koen, Sylvanus, and Eadred. Though Vesper is credited with uniting Lucardia, Constance was the quiet architect behind the empire’s endurance, securing supply lines, forging crucial alliances, and managing the realm in his absence. She was renowned for her cunning, composure, and strength in court, and for instilling her formidable will in her sons, for better or worse. Her death during Eadred’s birth marked the end of an era, but her influence lingers in the better parts of the empire she helped build.
Cormag (AMS)
Cormag is a mountain man from Redkeep, one of Tamhas’ trusted men. He is characterized by a bad limp due to a poorly set bone and is inseparable from his battle-axe, which he affectionately calls Matilda and treats as if she were his wife. Gruff and crude, Cormag is known for his grumbling demeanor and questionable reputation, with local guards warning others of his “unnatural acts.” Despite his rough exterior, his interactions—especially his banter and the mythologizing of his injury—reveal a dark sense of humor and a strong bond with his fellow mountain men, such as Timlin.
Crenec (AMS, Jezelle)
Crenec is a towering Jötunn of few wits and fewer words—silent, obedient, and built like a siege engine. Discovered chained to a boulder deep within the Acheron Forest, his presence in the southern reaches of Lucardia remains an unsolved mystery. Though not clever, Crenec’s sheer strength makes him invaluable to Wendell, who uses him as both a beast of burden and a silent threat. His loyalty is assumed, but the truth of his origins may hold deeper secrets.
Cyrus Haverly (AMS, Jezelle)
Cyrus Haverly, son of Earl Haverly of Sax and heir to the governorship of Grafton Notch, has lived a life of ease and indulgence. Sheltered and slow to grasp the seriousness of things, he’s more often found chasing mischief than responsibility. With little sense of danger or decorum, he regularly roams the town in the company of Erikson Gray, a blacksmith’s apprentice, and Reese, son of Vale, the town drunk’s boy. Together, they form a trio of trouble that keeps the local guards on edge and the townsfolk rolling their eyes. Despite his flaws, there’s an odd charm to Cyrus’s unfiltered joy.
Cyrus (Koen)
Koen the Gray’s trusted warhorse. Cyrus is a Luenwell Destrier and, therefore, a horse prized for its intelligence, loyalty, and bravery.
Karl Dalen Gold (AMS)
Dalen is the embattled Karl of Goldridge, a city buried in wealth but starving for sustenance. Representing the contradictions of his land, Dalen presides over a people who dine on stale bread from golden plates, imprisoned by the very riches that define them. Dalen clings to the illusion that gold can solve every problem, even as winter isolates his city and renders its wealth useless. His leadership reflects the tragic hubris of a house that struggles for survival amidst plenty.
Prior Damek of Shadowrock (Thanatos)
Second in command in the Order of Thanatos monastery in Newpost, Prior Damek is a warm and insightful monk who serves as a mentor and guide to novices Mishal and Caleb. He leads the two boys on a journey to deliver the remains of a wealthy merchant to Shadowrock, offering both protection and quiet wisdom along the way. Ultimately, he will deliver them to the city of Thanatos to continue their training, setting in motion the next phase of their spiritual path.
Diarmad of the Munview Tips (AMS)
Diarmad of the Munview Tips is a loud, boastful mountain lord and close ally of Tamhas of Wintery Bluff. Known for his disdain for refinement and his love of drink and blunt speech, Diarmad carries himself with the entitled swagger of a man accustomed to hard lands and hard bargaining. Though he often plays the fool—belching, mocking soldiers, and demanding more ale—he is a shrewd negotiator who serves as a key broker in deals involving mercenaries and gold. He commands a significant amount of manpower from the Munview region and isn’t shy about reminding others of it. Diarmad’s coarse manner belies a calculated presence in the politics of Redkeep.
Dirk of Battenridge (AMS, Rhime)
Bannerman to King Bartholomew and the lone survivor of the doomed quest to destroy Ljós Leggja, Dirk of Battenridge, was the first to bear the title Duke of Battenborne. Originally hailing from Battenridge, he was granted the fortress of Eldenspire by House Drageoir in recognition of his unwavering loyalty and valor during the expedition. His fame grew not only from his martial prowess but also from his steadfast devotion to his king, even as Bartholomew succumbed to madness in the wilds beyond the empire. Dirk’s legacy marked the founding of House Battenborne and a lineage of grim, resolute lords. But Dirk did not leave the wilds unscathed. It is rumored he was infected with a terrible curse, the Nathair an Doimhne (Serpent of the Depths).
Doran (AMS, Koen)
The second Grand Master of the Knights of Norn, Doran is known as the Butcher of Blackdown for leading the campaign that finally brought Prince Koen and his forces to their knees during the War of the Four Realms. A lifelong servant of the Knights of Norn, he is among the first to survive their infamous trials in the swamps surrounding Norn. Doran is a figure of grim devotion, martial discipline, and ruthless efficiency, embodying the austere might of the emperor’s Caspian bodyguards.
Duncan Payne (Koen)
Eldest son of Reynoldus Payne and brother of Artemus. Gave up his barony and sold the Payne family holdings in Valedale to the Caspian church.
Dusana (AMS)
One of the last surviving Babaroga—a feared race of twisted witches known in legend as child-eaters—Dusana dwells in exile deep within the Devilwood. She was driven into hiding with her twin sons, Jethro and Tallis, after the brutal witch hunts that swept through Thornhold. Outcast and feared, Dusana embodies the dark legacy of Lucardia.
Prince Eadred (AMS, Koen)
Prince Eadred, known as Eadred the Strange, is the fourth and youngest son of Emperor Vesper. He rules the Luenwell Peninsula from his seat at Oakenyard and famously remained neutral during the rebellion. Reclusive and enigmatic, Eadred is addicted to theriac and is rumored to consort with the forest people. His eccentricities and detachment from court politics have made him a figure of both suspicion and curiosity within the empire.
Ebeus the Enchanter (AMS, Thanatos)
Ebeus the Enchanter is a high-ranking mage of the Guild of White, serving as chief advisor to Jarl Agris of Thorne during the ongoing witch hunt. As an Enchanter, he specializes in the manipulation of will through charms, sigils, and subtle magical compulsions, making him invaluable in rooting out suspected heretics. Cold and calculating, Ebeus guides the witch hunt with ruthless efficiency, often blurring the line between justice and control. Many whisper that his enchantments reach far beyond the accused, influencing lords, warriors, and even Agris himself. His presence casts a long shadow over Thorne, where fear and obedience walk hand in hand.
Edgar the Elder (AMS)
Edgar is one of the last true relics of Grafton Notch, having lived in the city since its founding as a humble bailey in the forest. Schooled in esoteric teachings and gifted in the ancient art of bone reading, Edgar rose to prominence as both a soothsayer and a councilman. For decades, he guided the city’s fate with grim wisdom, warning of threats others dismissed as superstition. But everything changed when a boy named Erikson Gray emerged from the Acheron Forest with a secret thought lost to legend—an event that awakened possibilities Edgar had only encountered in the cryptic tomes of his youth. With the Nephilim’s return, those long-dormant dreams edged toward reality, reshaping Edgar’s path forever.
Eldwin I Battenborne (Rhime)
Eldwin is the younger brother of Rhime and the meticulous steward of House Battenborne’s wealth and affairs. Cool-headed and calculating, he thrives behind the scenes, managing the family’s vast resources and navigating the political currents of Lucardia with precision. Unlike Rhime’s dark intensity, Eldwin’s power lies in foresight, restraint, and ruthless efficiency. He speaks little but misses nothing, making him a trusted—but never underestimated—pillar of the Battenborne legacy.
King Eldwin Battenborne V (AMS)
Eldwin Battenborne V was the last king of the Battenborne line, slain by Emperor Vesper at the Battle of Springval Lake—the final, decisive clash of the War of Unification. His death marked both the fall of the Battenborne dynasty and the end of the Twelve Kingdoms period. Eldwin ruled the most powerful of the twelve realms and, had fortune turned, might have become a uniter himself. However, his pride and underestimation of the cunning Vesper of Brae proved his undoing. Though he had an heir, the prince vanished in the chaos that followed, and with him, any hope of restoring Battenborne rule.
Eleusium Matho (AMS)
Brother Eleusium is a monk of the Caspian faith stationed in the city of Newpost. Known for his quiet intellect and gentle demeanor, he is fluent in Old Lucardian and often spends his time in the church’s seldom-used libraries. Unlike many of his brethren, Eleusium is introspective and sympathetic, openly questioning the moral decay and ambition within the church. His humility and moral clarity set him apart in an increasingly politicized and corrupt institution.
Eli (Thanatos)
Eli is a cunning and opportunistic member of the Red Hands, known for his charm, ruthlessness, and talent for recruiting desperate souls into the guild. Once a close associate of Bailey, Eli rose through betrayal and now claims leadership of the Red Hands, though many question the direction he has taken the guild. He thrives in the moral murk of Digan Alley, often loitering near the watch to spot potential leverage or victims. Eli masks his cruelty behind a jovial demeanor and is quick to turn on his allies when the opportunity arises.
Erikini (Koen)
A mysterious orphan whose origins are unknown, Erikini survived the destruction of her village and possesses the rare ability to hear the dead. She becomes an unlikely companion to Prince Koen during his three-year sojourn across Lucardia. Her strength and eerie connection to the spiritual realm shape the course of their journey. This encounter influences several storylines in the Lucardian universe.
Erikson Gray (AMS)
Erikson Gray is the young protagonist of the Absolution of the Morning Star series. He discovers the cursed sword called Lightbearer (Ljós Leggja), which quickly becomes a burden. Erik must navigate a war-torn Lucardia teeming with faith, sorcery, and betrayal. Though untrained, he possesses a mysterious resilience that draws both allies and enemies to his cause. As his past unravels, Erik becomes a reluctant symbol of resistance against the divine forces that shaped the empire. His fate is tied to the sword—and to a prophecy that may doom or redeem the world.
Sword Master Eronicus (Koen)
Perhaps the best swordsman to ever live, Eronicus spent his later years instructing the acolytes of the Knights of Norn.
Evaline Lysena (Rhime)
Evaline is the second daughter of a minor noble house, married off to the enigmatic and feared Duke Rhime of Eldenspire to settle her father’s debts. Young, clever, and brave, she finds herself trapped in a cold, political marriage where love is not immediately evident and secrets abound. As she uncovers the truth about Rhime’s sorcery and the dark power he commands, Evaline must choose between survival and sacrifice. Her journey marks the beginning of a descent into the heart of Lucardia’s most treacherous ambitions at the fiery end of the Five Kingdoms period.
Novice Finley (Thanatos)
Finley works with Brother Howel in the vast hospital of Skelside Monastery. He is skilled in making potions and elixirs. When he soon takes his vows, he will begin to treat his own patients, and most believe he will take over the hospital when the time comes.
Fogroot (AMS, Jezelle)
A resourceful and fearless member of Wendell’s gang, Fogroot stands out for her tactical mind and unwavering presence in tense situations. She is romantically involved with Hawkwood, and the two often operate together in the gang’s more dangerous dealings. Fogroot’s quiet strength and readiness to act make her a reliable asset in the criminal underworld.
Freyja (Koen)
Freyja is the ghost of a powerful Nyth Cigfran witch, killed during the Mage Purge of 650 and now bound within ancient catacombs. Once a master of Seider—the weaving of fate—she possesses deep knowledge of the old craft and commands respect even in death. Though once revered, she dismisses worship, preferring to be seen as a clever and sharp-tongued spirit with unfinished business. Freyja’s presence is both a warning and a guide, and her insights often come wrapped in riddles.
Gamile (AMS)
Elder brother of Ishton, Gamile was long presumed lost at sea after a shipwreck off the coast of Newpost. In truth, he survived and chose to remain in the rough coastal city, finding its chaotic charm more appealing than a sailor’s life. Having left the sea behind, Gamile scrapes by on odd jobs and quick coin, often seen in the company of the Cankers down on the Sand Flea Shingle. Though many consider him a drifter or a scoundrel, Gamile seems content to let the tide of Newpost carry him where it will. He dreams of one day owning a tavern or inn.
Brother Gillis (Thanatos)
A senior monk of the Order of Thanatos, Brother Gillis, serves as Simone’s counterpart in instructing the novices at Skelside. While Simone teaches doctrine, Gillis enforces discipline through grueling labor and physical rigor. He is infamous for his short temper and the ever-present cudgel he carries, which has earned him a fearsome reputation among the younger initiates. Whispers of “accidents” among the novices only add to the aura of dread that surrounds him.
Goldspun (AMS, Jezelle)
Goldspun is Wendell’s master of coin, responsible for managing the financial operations of Wendell’s criminal enterprise. He is described as careful and competent, with a shrewd sense of economics and a sharp memory for debts and favors. Though not as physically imposing as Wendell’s enforcers, Goldspun holds considerable power through his control of wealth and information, making him indispensable to the gang’s inner workings.
Grafton the Bald (AMS, Jezelle)
Grandson of the founder of Grafton Notch, Grafton the Bald is a key fur trading merchant in a city built on fur. This has made him incredibly rich, and some say more powerful than the city’s governor, Earl Haverly of Sax. Grafton the Bald also sits on the city council.
Lord Warden Gunthard Battenborne (Rhime)
Gunthard Battenborne is the grizzled uncle of Rhime, Eldwin, and Ragnar, and the formidable Lord Warden of Eldenspire. As commander of the Battenborne forces and head of the city’s watch, he oversees the family’s security with ruthless efficiency and battlefield-tested discipline. Gunthard is a man of few words and hard truths, feared by the men under his command and respected by his kin. His loyalty to House Battenborne is absolute, and he stands as both shield and sword to the family’s legacy.
Black-eyed Harmon (AMS, Koen, Thanatos)
Harmon is an opportunistic warlord who has established himself in the lawless borderlands between Highwater and the Northlands. Operating from a reclaimed and fortified castle, he commands local power through intimidation and opportunism. His presence has brought hardship to the Burm and Crow tribes, who view him as a growing threat. Harmon is always flanked by his two loyal mastiffs, Rabina and Casandra.
Hawkwood (AMS, Jezelle)
Hawkwood is a seasoned member of Wendell’s gang, known for his blunt attitude and irreverent humor. He is often seen alongside Fogroot, with whom he shares a close relationship.
Hekate (Koen)
Hekate is the sister of both Raenmaeld and Freyja. She dwells in the Temple of the Thrice Great within Ignis and is revered by its Council of Elders, who depend on the secrets she hears from her magical red stone. These messages, which she shares at her discretion, are believed to have led to breakthroughs, such as the discovery of gunpowder. Her temple is a place of carefully guarded mysteries. It and Hekate are protected by the Order of the Sacred Stone.
Hella (Koen)
Hella is a feared demigod bound to the swamps of Norn by powerful Nyth Cigfran magic—proof that the raven-witches’ sorcery can imprison even divine beings. Known as the queen of the concealed place, she is half-decayed, accompanied by flesh-eating Garmr hounds, and delivers judgment to those who trespass on sacred ground. Her imprisonment is eternal unless someone can hear her riddle and accept her “gift,” a silver plate marked by prophecy. Though condemned as heresy by the Caspian faith, many claim to have seen her and lived—barely. Hella stands as both omen and guardian, her presence a grim testament to the old powers that still govern the wild places of Lucardia.
Hermingild (AMS, Koen)
Hermingild is a merchant from Restol whose dark mercantile dealings eventually elevated him to the status of lord, granting him control over the port of Helmsdock and stewardship of its valuable secret. Calculating and opportunistic, Hermingild commands both economic and strategic power in the region. His rise from trader to lord reflects the shadowy undercurrents of Restol’s commercial elite.
Karl Hird Arnlaug Crow (AMS)
Hird Arnlaug is the proud and uncompromising Karl of Crowdale, the smallest realm in the Northlands, known for its superstitions and fierce independence. Though physically small like many of his people, Hird’s pride and ambition loom large. He once cast aside Rachel of Thorne, a slight that strained Crowdale’s political ties. Hird governs with suspicion toward outsiders and harbors a deep mistrust of southern influence. Despite his realm’s modest size, he is a shrewd negotiator who demands respect and tangible benefits in any alliance.
Baron Hnikarr Hlynsson (AMS)
The governor of Redkeep, Baron Hnikarr Hlynsson, earned his title after guiding imperial forces through the mountains to block the Iron Road during the Mortecombe siege. A Treubhan Beinne by blood, he maintains deep connections with the mountain tribes, and his true loyalties may not lie entirely with the emperor. Hnikarr lives in Spearpoint, a tower carved into the mountainside, where he rules with a mix of strategic insight and boisterous hospitality. Known for his bald head, broad girth, and love of strong drink, he is as socially shrewd as he is politically calculating. To offend him is to risk more than just his temper.
Horace Skelmour of the Zandore Cliffs (Rhime)
Horace is the seasoned and formidable duke of the Zandore Cliffs, commanding the most powerful naval fleet in Westerly during the Five Kingdom Period. Known for his blunt demeanor and penetrating judgment, he values competence over courtesy and sees through pretense with ease. His control of vital maritime routes grants him significant leverage in both trade and war. Though not one for theatrics, Horace’s presence carries weight, and his loyalty, once earned, is unwavering. He shares a deep mutual respect with Duke Rhime, and their bond is one forged through years of hard truths and shared purpose. He will be the first Skelmour King.
Brother Howel (Thanatos)
Brother Howel is the head of the infirmary within the Order of Thanatos and one of its most skilled and unconventional healers. Renowned for his surgical expertise and practical innovations, he commands respect despite his irreverent attitude toward doctrine. Howel is known for valuing competence over tradition and mentors only those who prove their merit. He maintains a critical view of the Order’s modern curriculum and favors hands-on instruction rooted in necessity and experience.
Ingolf (Thanatos, AMS)
Ingolf is a Journeyman in the Guild of White, ranked just above an apprentice but not yet permitted to study the deeper magical arts. As a layman, his role centers on administration, fieldwork, and logistical support, often assigned to politically charged operations. He is stationed in Thornhold, where he assists with the Great Witch Hunt under the authority of Ebeus the Enchanter. The Guilders in Thornhold have taken on an increasingly militarized posture—wearing armor and bearing arms—an unprecedented shift that signals the Guild’s slow decline from magical institution to political enforcer.
Ishton (AMS)
Ishton of Bleakwharf was born to the sea but dreams of more than a life spent hauling nets. Fiercely loyal to his friends, he’s quick with his fists and always has one of his father’s sea-worn sayings ready. He thrives on challenges, facing them with a mix of grit and good humor. When adventure arrives one foggy morning, Ishton seizes it, unaware that his journey will carry him far from the salt-slick shores he’s always known. Beneath his rough edges lies a heart anchored in courage and camaraderie.
Prince Ivar (AMS)
First-born prince of the Zulikaarme house, regent of the Southlands, and heir to Emperor Vesper the Uniter. Known for his ambition and iron will, Ivar is a relentless enforcer of his father’s vision for Lucardia. While his younger brothers rebel, Ivar remains loyal, leading the brutal suppression of the uprising. His legacy is one of power without mercy, remembered as the architect of Blackdown Castle’s destruction and a symbol of the empire’s unyielding rule. His seat is the Brae Castle in Rhimespire.
Jericho (Koen)
A ruthless innkeeper and underworld figure in Dinasaur, Jericho runs the tavern that bears her name while overseeing a network of criminal activity. Sharp, calculating, and dangerous, she commands respect from smugglers, mercenaries, and local power brokers alike. Some say she has an uncanny resemblance to Princess Rachel of Thorne.
Jezelle (AMS, Jezelle)
Jezelle is a cunning and resilient street thief from Grafton Notch, known for her sharp instincts and quick hand. Abandoned by her father and forced to survive the city’s underworld from a young age, she rose from nothing to the right hand of Wendell the One Eye. Jezelle possesses an uncanny ability that hints at subtle magic, making her a formidable and elusive figure. Fiercely independent, she trusts few and protects her own with unwavering loyalty. Her path eventually entangles with Erikson Gray, altering the course of both their fates.
Jethro and Tallis (AMS)
Dusana’s twin sons, a atrange abominations from the union between a babaroga and a man.
Kieran the Rawboned (AMS)
Gaunt, cunning, and feared in equal measure, Kieran the Rawboned is the ruthless leader of the Twelve Sisters Gang, the dominant criminal force in Newpost. Beneath the veneer of the city’s bustling salted cod trade lies Kieran’s true empire: a vast smuggling operation funneling theriac—an addictive and dangerous substance—across Lucardia. With influence that stretches from the gutters of Newpost to the gilded halls of Highwater, Kieran ensures that nothing moves through the city without his mark. Those who cross him often end up gutted, flayed, and drying in the sun, much like the cod on the quay.
Prince Koen the Gray (AMS, Koen)
Second-born prince of the Zulikaarme house, remembered for his stoic resolve and tragic end. Tasked with securing peace through a political marriage, Koen ultimately rebels against his father, Emperor Vesper the Uniter, alongside his younger brother Sylvanus. Their rebellion fails; Koen is executed, Blackdown Castle is razed, and its earth is salted on the Emperor’s orders. Though vilified by his father, Koen’s defiance leaves a lasting scar on Lucardia’s history.
Laurentino Borelli (Koen)
Patriarch of the powerful Borelli family, Laurentino is the true power behind the city of Restol, regardless of the imperial banner flying above its gates. His lineage traces back to the first vineyards planted in the region, and under his watch, the family’s influence has only deepened. The famed Resolvian Red, produced exclusively by the Borellis, is regarded as the finest wine in all of Lucardia, prized by nobles, kings, and emperors alike. Laurentino rules with the quiet confidence of a man whose wealth and legacy are rooted as deeply as the vines that made his house immortal.
Letha (Jezelle)
Letha is a savvy and pragmatic street girl who serves as a mentor figure to Jezelle during her early days in Grafton Notch. Having survived on the streets longer than most, Letha leads the fledgling group that becomes the Silver Tine Girls and quickly recognizes Jezelle’s raw potential as a thief. She is protective but firm, balancing tough love with moments of genuine care, and often mediates between Jezelle and Tash. Letha’s experience and authority anchor the group, and her teachings play a vital role in shaping Jezelle’s early strategies and confidence. Her influence is foundational to the gang’s structure and ethos.
The Lion (AMS, Koen)
The Lion is a fearsome Royal Galleass, a hybrid warship that combines the firepower and sail configuration of a galleon with the speed and agility of oar propulsion. It boasts three masts rigged with triangular sails, 52 oars, and a crew of nearly 400, most assigned to the grueling task of rowing. Armed with eight bombards (four per side), two forward-facing guns, and twin ballistas in its forecastle, the Lion is built for dominance at sea. For nearly thirty years, it has pirated and terrorized the Sea of Styx. Now under the command of the infamous Lioness (Caterina), it remains a floating legend and a nightmare to merchant and navy alike. To combat this ship, the Emperor has created a fleet of powerful Dreadnoughts.
Father Ludo or Ludovicus Tyranus (AMS)
Father Ludo is the senior priest of the Caspian Church, stationed in the city of Newpost. Known for his lavish lifestyle, he presents himself as a jovial, benevolent, and welcoming figure, but beneath his genial exterior lies a calculating and ambitious clergyman deeply entrenched in the political and doctrinal machinery of the Caspian faith. Ludo holds considerable influence within the local chapter and is known for his persuasive charisma and strategic mind.
Princess Margret the Pale (AMS)
The only daughter of Prince Ivar, Margret suffers from the Creeping Cankers, a horrific disease marked by parasitic worms that has left her isolated and miserable. Hidden away for most of her life, she has known only pain and solitude. Yet as the winds of change stir across Lucardia, Margret finds herself drawn into events far greater than she ever imagined—her fate entangled with the mysterious Nyth Cigfran.
Matheson (AMS, Koen)
Boatswain of the Lion, Matheson is the gruff overseer of the ship’s rigging, sails, and daily operations on deck. With a sharp eye for detail and little patience for incompetence, he keeps the crew working in rhythm, whether furling canvas in a gale or readying the ship for battle. Responsible for the ship’s stores and equipment, Matheson ensures every rope, sail, and tool is accounted for and in working order. His barked commands and calloused hands are as much a part of the Lion as its timbers. They are also skilled at cracking skulls, a practice with which Matheson is well acquainted. Before joining the Lion’s crew, Matheson worked for Laurentino Borilli in Restol.
McGregor (AMS, Koen)
The Lion’s seasoned quartermaster, McGregor serves as the voice of the crew and the enforcer of order aboard ship. Elected by his shipmates, he holds authority just beneath the captain and oversees vital operations, from rationing supplies to maintaining discipline. Stern but respected, McGregor also leads boarding actions and ensures that plunder is divided fairly among the crew. His steady presence and firm hand help keep the Lion from descending into chaos during long voyages and violent encounters alike.
Megash, son of Kaldur (AMS)
One of Jarl Agris’s most trusted housecarls, Megash has stood at his side since their boyhood, weathering countless battles and trials together. A formidable warrior, Megash is known for his blunt manner and rough edges, but his skill with axe and shield is undeniable. Fiercely loyal, he serves not out of duty, but out of a deep personal bond and unshakable conviction. Where Agris goes, Megash is never far behind, ready to shed blood in his jarl’s name.
Meron (Rhime)
Meron is the loyal and long-serving head of household for the Battenborne family, a figure of quiet authority within the walls of Eldenspire. Though age has bowed his frame, his mind remains sharp and his devotion unshaken. Fiercely protective of the family’s reputation and legacy, he serves Duke Rhime with unwavering loyalty, viewing him not just as lord but as the embodiment of Battenborne’s future. Meron speaks little, but his presence commands respect, and his gaze misses nothing.
Mishal of Gaven Hill (Thanatos, AMS)
Mishal of Gaven Hill is a young novice in the Order of Thanatos, being trained to guide the dead across the Threshold. Gifted with being a Psychopomp, a rare sensitivity to spirits, Mishal is haunted by visions and burdened with secrets far beyond his years. Born in a quiet corner of the port city of Newpost, he is thrust into a dark world of ritual and death and begins a journey that challenges the very foundations of his faith. As he uncovers hidden truths within the Order, Mishal must decide whether to obey or defy the path set before him.
Móðguðr (AMS, Thanatos)
Móðguðr is a legendary female warrior remembered for her defiant stand against Sathanas the Wrathful during his brutal unification campaigns. At the battle of Gjallarbrú, she led a vastly outnumbered force that held off the king’s army for three days, buying time for her people to flee into the Devilwood and Sacred Grove. Though ultimately slain, her sacrifice preserved the bloodlines that would become the Forest People. Her likeness now stands immortalized in stone at the old crossing point—a solemn symbol of resistance, sacrifice, and the enduring hope against tyranny. To the grove-born, she is not just a hero, but a martyr whose spirit still guards the woods.
Moonsail or Sebastian (AMS)
The spirited young son of Catarina the Lioness, Moonsail was raised aboard her ship, the Lion, and knows the sea like few others his age. Though only eight years old, he is fearless, clever, and eager for adventure. His journey takes an unexpected turn when he joins Erik and his companions, proving himself a brave and mischievous rapscallion with a heart full of courage and salt.
Mordecai (AMS, Jezelle)
Mordecai is a brutal enforcer in Wendell’s employ, known for running the infamous Stag and Tallow tavern—a den of vice, rumor, and back-alley deals. Quick-tempered and impulsively violent, Mordecai is feared even by those who claim to command him. Though lacking the cunning to be truly dangerous on his own, his raw aggression makes him a volatile asset. Wendell has managed to keep him on a leash thus far, but Mordecai’s loyalty is fraying—and when it snaps, the consequences could be catastrophic.
Mórrigan (AMS)
A powerful entity formed by the conjoined Nyth Cigfran witches—Newain, Macha, and Badb—Mórrigan serves as their more palatable guise when stepping into the affairs of Lucardia. Her presence signals the witches’ renewed involvement in mortal politics. Their “little sisters” need their help, and they are quick to oblige if it means their chosen path is followed.
Naamah (AMS)
Naamah is a legendary figure from Lucardia’s prehistory, believed to have lived over five thousand years ago. As the founder of the Nyth Cigfran, she is widely regarded as the most powerful witch to have ever walked the world. Through her mastery of fleshcraft and seduction, she enticed the Watcher seraphim to descend from the heavens and mate with her coven, giving birth to the Nephilim. These children of unnatural power ravaged the surface, forcing her enemies—those now called the Earth Dwellers—to retreat underground and establish the hidden city of Dis. Naamah’s legacy remains one of awe, terror, and profound magical consequence.
Nephilim (AMS)
A race of immortal giants born from a forbidden union between seraphim and mortal women, orchestrated through the seductive magic of the Nyth Cigfran witches. These towering demigods once ruled Lucardia with godlike power, enslaving humanity beneath their heel. To break free, human mages committed a daring and sacrilegious act—capturing one of God’s chosen to harness divine power against them. Though the Nephilim were defeated, their legacy endures in myth, fear, and perhaps in bloodlines yet to be claimed. They will not be forgotten.
Newain, Macha, and Badb (AMS, Koen)
The conjoined witches are the result of a failed magical experiment to produce the true Mórrigan, the all-powerful phantom queen. They are the mother of the witches Raenmaeld, Freyja, and Hekate. Though the power and influence of the Nyth Cigfran is diminished, it is not gone as long as these three exist to pull their strings.
Oathtaker (AMS)
Oathtakers are mortal servants who have willingly forsaken their souls in exchange for the immortality and infernal power granted by the Nephilim. Bound by a blood pact, they act as emissaries, enforcers, and agents of the Nephilim’s will upon the earth. Their appearance remains largely human, but small black crystalline horns sprout from their hairline—an unmistakable mark of their allegiance. Feared for their unnatural strength, longevity, and eerie resilience, Oathtakers are often found at the forefront of Nephilim influence, ensuring loyalty and sowing dread wherever they go. Despite their gifts, their minds slowly erode, consumed by the voices of their masters and the torment of their bargain.
Okra of Ballari (Thanatos)
Okra of Ballari is the self-proclaimed caretaker of a hidden grotto temple dedicated to the forest god Cernunnos in the northern wilderness of Lucardia. Devoted to the god since childhood, she lives a reclusive life guarding his shrine through cunning illusions and natural magic. She is a gifted listener to enchanted relics, which occasionally whisper truths or warnings, making her a reluctant soothsayer. Though wary of strangers, she offers refuge to travelers and speaks with wisdom shaped by solitude and spiritual conviction. Her role blends devotion, folklore, and trickery, embodying the mysterious guardianship of the old, forgotten places.
Novice Osgood (Thanatos)
Novice at Skelside who attends to Brother Gillis.
Brother Owin (Thanatos)
Brother Owin is a monk of the Order of Thanatos stationed at the Newpost monastery. Sly and calculating, he has been disciplined multiple times for bending the Order’s sacred duties to serve his own interests, often extorting the grieving in exchange for spiritual favors. His peers view him with suspicion, aware that his ambition walks a dangerous edge. Some say it’s only a matter of time before he crosses a line that seals his downfall. Others believe that the same ambition may yet earn him a loftier position within the Order.
Pallus (AMS)
A Red Cloth priest of mysterious background. His appearance marks the awakening of the Red Cloths in Lucardia. He is the keeper of remarkable secrets, and some believe he is not from the realm of the living. The machinations of the Red Cloths are far-reaching, and their influence spreads from the lowly masses to the very reaches of political and religious power in Lucardia.
Father Petrus (Koen)
Petrus is a Caspian monk and the chief keeper of Dagon Light, a 278-foot lighthouse that rises above the treacherous Candoria Crest where the Fermont River meets the sea. He leads a cloistered monastic order tasked with preserving the beacon, which serves both as a navigational aid and a sacred symbol of divine guidance in the Caspian faith. The monks regard tending the light as a holy calling. However, the isolation and austere living conditions at Dagon Light have made Petrus and his brethren… peculiar.
Pilkington (AMS)
Pilkington is the elderly, hunchbacked servant of Reeve Bedric, long entrenched in the keep’s daily workings and cellar lore. Gruff, eccentric, and unfiltered, he is known for his sharp wit, captivating stories, and a profound familiarity with the region’s darker folklore. Pilkington tends the stores and drinks with obsessive care, often producing rare and potent vintages from the depths of the keep. Though dismissed by some as a doddering relic, his memory is long, and his warnings—however superstitious—carry the weight of experience.
Po (AMS)
A Jötunn of immense stature and strength, Po is one of the last of his kind—giants said to be born of Nephilim and mortal women. Though seemingly slow-witted and awkward in speech, Po’s halting grasp of the human tongue masks a deeper wisdom and sensitivity. Loyal and protective, he becomes a trusted companion to Erikson Gray. Po carries a hidden truth tied to the ancient fall of his race and their cursed link to the Nephilim, a secret that may reshape the understanding of Lucardia’s past.
King Prymr (AMS)
Prymr, the 26th King of Jötunheimr, rules over the Anakim tribe of the Jötunn—giants born of both human and Nephilim blood. Revered for his wisdom, pride, and tragic burden, Prymr stands as the final sovereign of a dying race that once defied gods and empires alike. A stalwart defender of tradition and secrecy, he has kept the great city of Jötunheimr hidden from the world for centuries. Though burdened by grief and the weight of prophecy, his presence commands awe, and his words echo the fading greatness of a race that bent, but never truly bowed.
Quintus (AMS)
Grand Master of Emperor Vesper’s household, Quintus holds much power and influence in the day-to-day running of Highwater. In the emperor’s presence, he is the perfect servant, but face him alone and you’ll realize he is a man of high ambition and dark secrets.
Rachel of Thorne (Koen, AMS)
Rachel of Thorne is the daughter of Jarl Agris of Thorne and Baroness Catelyn of Frey, a union of two powerful northern bloodlines. She is wed to Prince Koen the Gray in a political marriage meant to secure peace between the Northling tribes and the imperial crown. Though noble and dignified, Rachel carries a quiet sorrow—she is unable to bear children, a revelation that threatens to shatter the fragile alliance her marriage was meant to forge. Her infertility becomes the catalyst for Koen’s perilous three-year quest in search of a miracle. Despite her limited role in the wider conflict, Rachel’s fate shapes the destiny of Lucardia through the son born of that desperate journey: Erikson Gray.
Raenmaeld the Salter (Koen)
Raenmaeld is an ancient witch of the Nyth Cigfran, cloistered within a forgotten temple and revered by her ravens. Known as “the Salter,” she possesses formidable salt magic—one of the most powerful forms in Lucardia, capable of countering Nephilim sorcery. Raenmaeld serves as a gatekeeper of lost knowledge, testing the worth of seekers through riddles whose answers come at a steep cost. Though feared for her sharp tongue and ruthless wisdom, she fulfills her role as a guide to those fated for great trials. Her solitary existence reflects the isolation of her order, whose members dispersed long ago to protect their secrets.
Ragnar Battenborne (Rhime)
The youngest of the Battenborne brothers, Ragnar is bold, brash, and irresistibly charming—a stark contrast to his calculating siblings, Rhime and Eldwin. He serves as Rhime’s loyal enforcer, carrying out the tasks too bloody or unseemly for a duke’s hands. Though often found with a drink in one hand and a jest on his lips, Ragnar’s revelry masks a quiet sorrow that few ever glimpse. He is the smile before the blow, the laughter echoing down dark hallways, and the blade that strikes without hesitation.
Brother Ratimir (Thanatos)
Ratimir is a monk of the Order of Thanatos stationed at the small monastery in Newpost. Known for his skill in spirit cleansing and exorcism, he serves alongside Prior Damek with quiet devotion to the Order’s sacred duties. Though reserved in demeanor, his expertise in funerary rites and dealings with the restless dead is well regarded. Ratimir is often called upon in Newpost and its outskirts when ordinary rites prove insufficient.
Reese (AMS, Jezelle)
Reese is the son of Vale, a known drunkard in Grafton Notch. Often dismissed by the townsfolk, Reese finds companionship in fellow youths Cyrus Haverly, the Earl’s son, and Erikson Gray, the blacksmith’s apprentice.
Abbot Reynold (Thanatos)
Abbot Reynold is the esteemed leader of Skelside Monastery, the second-largest outpost of the Order of Thanatos in Lucardia. Once a monk of notable reputation, he rose to prominence after personally guiding a thousand souls across the threshold during the unification wars. His leadership at Skelside places him at the crossroads of both spiritual authority and political significance, given the monastery’s location along a critical trade and military pass. Reynold is known for his ceremonial grandeur and his keen awareness of his own importance within the Order.
Reynoldus Payne Constable of Dinasaur (Koen)
Constable of Dinasaur and second-born son of the Baron of Valedale, Reynoldus Payne serves the empire by overseeing the vital saltpeter trade to Ignis, ensuring a steady supply of gunpowder for the emperor’s armies. Stern and pragmatic, he governs the volatile town of Dinasaur with a firm hand and the calculated efficiency expected of a Payne. Though not the heir, Reynoldus has carved out his own authority through duty and discipline. He is the father of two sons, Davos and Artemus, and is currently aided by his elder brother, Theobald, in enforcing law through the family’s grim expertise.
Rhab (AMS)
A fearsome lindwyrm, or sea serpent, that has haunted the Phlegyas Strait—the sole passage between the Sea of Styx and the Elderian Ocean—for nearly twenty years. Known for devouring ships the size of dreadnoughts and devouring entire crews, Rhab has become a nautical legend and a persistent menace to trade and travel. Its immense size, impervious scales, and cunning nature have made it impossible to kill, and many believe it to be the same creature used by Rhime of the Spire to destroy the five kingdoms during the second unification.
Rhime Battenborne (Rhime)
Rhime is the brooding and enigmatic head of the Battenborne family, feared for both his ruthless ambition and whispered command of sorcery. He rules from the towering fortress of Eldenspire, a place as ominous and unyielding as the man himself. Bound by duty and secrets, he marries Evaline of Lysena to settle a debt, dragging her into the shadowy depths of his rise to power. Rhime’s quiet intensity masks a dangerous intellect and a growing hunger for dominion, marking him as a key architect in Lucardia’s darkest transformations.
Rollant the Canker (AMS)
Once a tavern owner in Newpost, Rollant now lives among the afflicted on the Sand Flea Shingle, a slum reserved for those with the Creeping Cankers, a disease marked by an investigation of parasitic worms. Despite his condition, he serves as an unofficial leader and host to outcasts, offering hospitality and maintaining a wry, defiant spirit. Rollant is known for his sharp tongue, swirling red eyes, and fondness for the potent brew known as the Green Temptress. Fiercely protective of the shingle, Rollant embodies resilience on society’s margins.
Rosina (Thanatos)
Rosina is the tough and charismatic proprietor of the Needy Rope, a ramshackle tavern nestled in the heart of Digan Alley. Known for her sharp tongue, formidable presence, and surprisingly delicious meat pies, she commands both fear and affection from the alley’s regulars. Though she caters to a rough crowd, Rosina is deeply embedded in the social fabric of Shadowrock’s underworld and maintains strong ties with the Red Hands. Her kitchen may be smoke-choked, but her eyes miss nothing.
Rowan (Rhime)
Rowan is a quiet, observant maid who has served within the walls of Eldenspire for as long as she can remember. The same age as Evaline, she has never stepped beyond the castle’s cold stone corridors, but she knows its secrets intimately—perhaps too intimately. Though born to servitude, Rowan moves with a quiet confidence born of familiarity and hidden knowledge. Her unlikely friendship with Evaline becomes a source of warmth and trust in a place otherwise ruled by shadows.
Madame Ruby (Jezelle)
Ruby is the proprietor of Ruby’s Roost, a brothel in Grafton Notch. As the madam, she oversees operations with a cold and calculating demeanor, commanding fear and obedience from those in her charge. Ruby is a figure of authority within the city’s underworld, wielding influence through manipulation and intimidation. Her presence casts a long shadow over the lives of the vulnerable girls brought under her roof.
Princess Rhiannon (AMS)
Rhiannon is a princess of the Forest People and the headstrong daughter of Queen Casandra. Rejecting her mother’s peace with the empire, Rhiannon has rebelled with the support of the Gwarchodwr Bendigedig—the Blessed Guard—seeking to restore the old ways. She has seduced Prince Eadred of the Zulikaarme line and clouded his mind with Theriac, a potent mixture of alcohol and opium, much to her mother’s dismay. Together, Rhiannon and Eadred harbor ambitions of founding their own independent kingdom, a reckless dream that threatens to ignite war across Lucardia.
Sathanas the Wrathful (AMS)
Lucardia’s first uniter and a figure of both legend and dread, Sathanas was gifted the blade Ljós Leggja by his father, Devlian, becoming its first true wielder after its forging. Though he began as a visionary who unified the fractured realms, the blade’s whispers drove him to madness. His rule turned brutal as he waged war against the Jötunn and nearly eradicated the Forest People, earning him the title of the Wrathful. At the end of his life, Sathanas bypassed his five sons and entrusted Ljós Leggja to his nephew Bartholomew, who vanished on a quest to destroy the sword. The resulting power struggle among his sons plunged Lucardia into the Five Kingdoms Period.
Abbot Sigric (Thanatos)
Sigric is the Abbot of the Thanatos Monastery in Newpost, overseeing a modest order of twenty-five monks. Gruff and uncompromising in demeanor, he holds tightly to the traditional values of the Order of Thanatos and strives to uphold its purpose despite the challenges of a decaying world. His leadership is marked by strict discipline, though he is known among his brethren to have a fondness for wine and spirits. Despite this vice, few question his loyalty to the Order or his dedication to guiding its path.
Silvereye (AMS, Jezelle)
Silvereye is Wendell’s silent and imposing bodyguard, known for his chilling presence. He speaks little, but his cold glare, emphasized by his white eye, speaks volumes—usually just before violence erupts. His reputation is built on action, not words, and few who cross him live to make the same mistake twice.
Brother Simone (Thanatos)
Often called Simone the Seared, he is a monk of the Order of Thanatos stationed at the Skelside monastery, one of the largest and most influential Thanatos strongholds. He survived the devastating fire that consumed the monastery at Thornhold, though it left him with horrific burn scars that earned him his epithet. Simone now serves as an instructor to the novices at Skelside, known for his stern demeanor and uncompromising devotion to the Order’s teachings. His past suffering lends a grim authority to his lessons on death, discipline, and the fragility of flesh.
Karl Snorre of Burm (AMS)
Snorre of Burm is the Karl of the Burm tribe, gruff, battle-hardened warriors who prize strength and directness above all else. As their leader, Snorre embodies these values—he is blunt, formidable, and commands respect through force of will and proven martial prowess. Though wary of outsiders and slow to trust, Snorre recognizes the shifting tides in Lucardia and is willing to back those who demonstrate true strength. His support is hard-won but invaluable, bringing with it the fierce loyalty of the Burm.
Sparax Regillus (AMS)
Brother Sparax Regillus is a monk of the Caspian faith stationed in Newpost, serving under Father Ludovicus Tyranus. He is zealous, rigid, and deeply loyal to the orthodox doctrines of the church. Sparax is known for his harsh judgment, disdain for heresy, and unyielding belief in divine punishment, often advocating for swift and severe action against perceived sinners. He serves as both enforcer and ideological watchdog within the clergy, often opposing more compassionate voices, such as that of Brother Eleusium. Sparax represents the authoritarian wing of the church, favoring control and retribution over mercy or reform.
Sulwyn (AMS, Koen)
A knight and yeoman in service to Prince Eadred, Sulwyn stands as one of the prince’s most familiar and long-standing companions. Known for his easy charm and steady presence, he shares a deep personal bond with Eadred, having accompanied him since their youth. Though not of high noble rank, Sulwyn holds a position of quiet influence within the prince’s retinue. He is respected for his loyalty, skill, and the comfort of shared history.
Prince Sylvanus (AMS)
Sylvanus is the third son of Emperor Vesper and the younger brother of Koen the Gray. Before the rebellion, he ruled the Principality of West Gate and was known for his ambition, sharp intellect, and ruthless political instincts. He played a central role in the uprising against his father’s empire. After the rebellion’s failure, Sylvanus was imprisoned in Runemaul, where he remains cut off from the outside world. His legacy lingers as both a traitor and a visionary, depending on who tells the tale.
Tamhas of Wintery Bluff (AMS)
Tamhas is a Treubhan Beinne leader whose gruff demeanor and boisterous humor conceal a calculating and politically astute mind. Once disinherited for his family’s involvement with the Forest People, he has since amassed considerable influence, particularly over the Baron of Redkeep, through shrewd alliances and strategic maneuvering. Though he presents as a hearty mountain lord, Tamhas tests others relentlessly and rarely reveals his true intentions. His loyalty to the empire is ambiguous, and he remains a potent representative of the mountain clans’ enduring will. In every hall he enters, Tamhas carries the quiet threat of someone who knows more than he says. He is Ailis’s cousin.
Tash (Jezelle)
Tash is a streetwise and resilient girl who becomes one of Jezelle’s closest companions in her formative years on the streets of Grafton Notch. Having escaped a brutal life working in a tannery, Tash brings with her a mix of survival instincts, hard-earned toughness, and fierce loyalty. Alongside Letha, she helps form the Silver Tine Girls—a tight-knit group of young thieves—and quickly bonds with Jezelle over their shared trauma and desire for independence. Tash often acts as Jezelle’s confidante and protector, navigating the city’s dangers with a sharp mind and brave heart. Her presence plays a crucial role in Jezelle’s evolution from a frightened runaway into a cunning and self-assured thief.
Grand Master Terrick (Koen)
Terrick is the first Grand Master and leader of the Knights of Norn, a Caspian religious fighting order and personal guard of the emperor. Once a farmer’s son from Fayhall, Terrick rose through the ranks by merit, earning his position through decades of disciplined service and unwavering loyalty. A seasoned commander and devout servant of the faith, he balances military duty with spiritual obligation, overseeing the emperor’s security and enforcing the Caspian church’s will.
Theobald Payne of Valedale (Koen)
Eldest son and heir to the Baron of Valedale, Theobald Payne is a hardened man who takes pride in continuing his family’s grim vocation. For generations, the Paynes have served as torturers, executioners, and lawmen—figures both feared and required in the darker corners of the realm. Theobald approaches his work with measured precision and an unwavering belief in duty, viewing pain not as cruelty but as a means of preserving order. He now lends his macabre expertise to support his younger brother’s rise as constable of Dinasaur, ensuring law is upheld with the iron tools of their trade.
Karl Thijssen Snow (AMS)
Karl Thijssen is the eerie leader of Snowtide, a reclusive northern stronghold carved from ice and tradition. Thijssen speaks with a mix of madness and insight, claiming to hear whispers from the glacier itself. Despite his unsettling demeanor and cryptic behavior, he commands deep respect among his people and understands the harsh truths of survival in the North. Beneath his madness lies a calculating will and a fierce loyalty to Snowtide’s survival. If you help Snowtide, Karl Thijssen will help you.
Threetooth (Jezelle)
A reclusive and enigmatic figure who haunts the sewer tunnels beneath Grafton Notch. He is known among the Gutter’s children as a kind of soothsayer—someone they seek out when they want to know if they have a destiny larger than wallowing in filth and ruin. His presence is unsettling, marked by his disheveled appearance and strange, almost prophetic manner of speech. No one knows how old he is, and many whisper that he’s more ghost than man. Despite the fear he inspires, Threetooth’s words carry weight, and those who listen may leave changed.
Brother Throst (Thanatos)
Brother Throst is an inquisitor of the Order of Thanatos, charged with guarding the outer perimeter of its sacred grounds. Known for his unwavering adherence to protocol, he takes his duties seriously and trusts neither strangers nor sentiment. He commands the restless dead as part of the temple’s defenses and views fear as a valuable tool for maintaining order. Throst is a staunch defender of tradition and has little patience for rule-breakers, especially those who arrive unannounced.
Brother Thurston (Thanatos)
Thurston is a quiet, duty-bound monk from Skelside. Well-traveled and street-wise, he is often tasked with carting the bones of the deceased to distant lands.
Timlin (AMS)
Timlin is a seasoned mountain clansman from Redkeep and a close companion of Cormag. Described as Tamhas’s half-brother and nephew—an emblem of the mountain tribes’ complex kinship structures—Timlin serves as both guide and enforcer. Scarred and sharp-tongued, he embodies the pragmatic toughness of the Treubhan Beinne. Timlin’s dry wit and hardened demeanor reflect a life steeped in survival.
Tristen Ambrose of Houndshold (AMS, Jezelle)
Tristen is the brother of Carys Ambrose, the late wife of Prince Sylvanus, who perished during the rebellion. Despite the dark legacy of his family, Tristen briefly rose to the position of sheriff in Grafton Notch. His path is one of quiet resilience and burdened loyalty, shaped by loss and the shadows of nobility. Tristen’s fate becomes entwined with Erikson Gray, whose arrival in Grafton Notch will deeply alter the course of Tristen’s life.
King Tylus Garrish (AMS)
King Tylus Garrish was the final sovereign of the Garrish Kingdom and a close ally of King Eldwin Battenborne. He was killed in a surprise attack by King Vesper Zulikaarme while inspecting his newly founded colony of Grafton Notch on South Dardark, accompanied only by a small guard. His assassination ignited the conflict that would grow into the War of Unification. Rumors swirled that Tylus intended to marry his daughter to Eldwin’s son, uniting two of Lucardia’s most powerful kingdoms—an alliance Vesper preempted through his marriage to Constance Anworth, tipping the balance of power in his favor.
King Vaelric of House Drageoir (Rhime)
King Vaelric is the final monarch of House Drageoir, the ruling dynasty of Westerly for over 550 years. He rose to power following the sudden death of his elder brother and quickly became known for his cruelty, paranoia, and iron-fisted rule. Though feared across the realm, Vaelric shared a complex and long-standing bond with Duke Rhime of Eldenspire, having been childhood friends before ambition and power darkened their paths. His court was one of opulence and menace, where loyalty was rewarded and defiance punished without mercy.
Emperor Vesper Zuilkaarme the Uniter (AMS, Koen)
Vesper is the visionary and ruthless architect of Lucardia’s reunification. Once King of Brae Forest, he rose to power after marrying Queen Constance of House Anworth. Driven by a divine mission to spread the Caspia faith across all twelve kingdoms, Vesper forged his empire through conquest, diplomacy, and manipulation. He rules a realm shaped by both religious zeal and brutal pragmatism. Though many revere him as a savior, others see a tyrant whose relentless pursuit of order leaves lasting scars on his sons and the fractured world beneath him.
Jarl Warlec of Humsom’s Pass (AMS)
Warlec is the wild, impulsive, and brutal Jarl of the Treubhan Beinne, the fierce mountain tribes of Lucardia. Known for his unpredictable temper and readiness to resort to violence, Warlec rules through fear and ferocity as much as tradition. He is widely suspected to be the architect of the Iron Road massacre during the War of the Four Realms, a pivotal and traumatic event that forged Grand Marshal Astros into the creature he is today. Although unproven, this act solidifies Warlec’s reputation as a ruthless champion of mountain independence, and he remains a formidable figure whose loyalty lies solely with his own people.
Washburn (AMS, Koen)
An outspoken and rough-edged crew member of the Lion. Washburn joined the ship as a boy after surviving the burning and sacking of Brae during the Unification. Orphaned by the attack, he led a group of fellow survivors who called themselves the Painted Hounds, a ragtag band of children who lived wild in the ruins and woods around the fallen city.
Wendell the One Eye (AMS, Koen, Jezelle)
Wendell is a cunning and unpredictable figure who weaves in and out of the shadows of Lucardia’s history. Sometimes a pirate, sometimes a crook, and occasionally an uneasy ally, Wendell is driven by raw ambition and a desire to carve out an empire of his own. Described as a demon let loose upon the weave of fate, he is a force of chaos and opportunity—help him, and he may reward you; hinder him, and you may not live to regret it. He plays key roles in Koen, Jezelle, and throughout the Absolution of the Morning Star series.
High Priest Wulfthere (AMS, Koen)
High Priest Wulfthere is the head of the Caspian Church and a pivotal figure in its expansion from the Kingdom of Brae to all of Lucardia. A lifelong confidant of Emperor Vesper, he was among the first to believe in Vesper’s divine vision of a united Lucardia following the young king’s miraculous encounter with the Prophet Caspia in a cave. Wulfthere’s unwavering faith once served as the backbone of the Church’s authority, but age and doubt have begun to weigh on him. Now, in the shadows of his crisis of faith, he has started to lend an ear to the Red Cloths and their whispers of reformation.
Yasen (Koen)
Yasen is the chamberlain and personal attendant to Prince Koen. Steadfast and formal, he serves as Koen’s intermediary in courtly affairs, relaying messages and executing orders with precision. Though deeply loyal, Yasen’s allegiance is more to the realm and, therefore, to the emperor. His presence reflects the ordered hierarchy of Blackdown Castle and Vesper’s ever-present watchful eye.
