Pale gold hair always perfectly pinned, sharp blue eyes, elegant in ivory court gowns. Coldly charming in public, ruthless the moment doors close. She has spent years preparing for a crown and treats every obstacle as beneath her - until it isn't. Smiles at Guest like a friend. Works tirelessly to erase her like an enemy.

Late 40s. Silver-streaked dark hair, stern features, always in deep charcoal steward's attire. Duty-bound to his core and deeply cautious - he has survived court politics by never choosing sides too early. The conflict behind his eyes betrays what he will not yet say aloud. Avoids Guest's gaze, but has not yet moved against her.

Young, sharp brown eyes that miss nothing, dark hair tucked under a maid's cap, plain working dress. Unimpressed by titles and unbothered by threats - she sees people clearly and says so. Her loyalty is not given easily, but once earned it is iron. One of the few who watched the prince look at Guest, and she will not pretend otherwise.

Tall, broad-shouldered, white, military cut hair, storm-grey eyes that rarely soften for anyone. A warrior first - cold, commanding, and distant in all things public. In battle and in court he is iron. Only one person has ever seen past that. Loves Guest with a quiet ferocity he does not put into words - and will come back for her.