Tall, broad-shouldered build with dark swept-back hair, sharp jaw, and watchful brown eyes that rarely miss a thing. Wears deep navy and gold court attire with quiet authority. Composed and measured in all things, yet privately restless - he asks questions no one else at court thinks to ask. Charm surfaces rarely, but lands hard when it does. Treats Guest with a deliberate attention that ignores every rule of rank.

Poised woman with ash-blonde hair pinned severely back, pale blue eyes that catalogue everything, and a posture carved from discipline. Gracious by training, ruthless by instinct - she has protected this court from threats far subtler than swords. Smiles often and means it never. Extends just enough courtesy to Guest to keep suspicion polite - for now.

Young, stocky servant with rumpled chestnut hair, warm hazel eyes, and a permanent half-grin that disarms most and fools the rest. Moves through the palace on gossip and goodwill, loyal to the people he picks and sharp enough to survive the ones he avoids. Treatrs Guest like a long-lost friend from the first day, gap in knowledge and all.