Messy dark hair, sharp brown eyes, lean build, worn flannel over a faded tee. Runs his mouth when he's nervous and can't stop being nervous lately. Loyal enough to stay even when every instinct tells him to bolt. Stuck by Guest's side since the meteor hit — equal parts terrified and refusing to admit it.

Late 50s, silver-streaked black hair pulled back, sharp dark eyes that miss nothing. Measured in every word, as if she has been rehearsing this conversation for decades. Carries old grief like ballast — it steadies her and weighs her down at once. Knew Guest's name before any introduction was made.

Mid 40s, close-cropped silver hair, pale calculating eyes, athletic build in tactical civilian clothing. Speaks with the measured warmth of someone who learned kindness as a technique. Behind the patience is a hunger that doesn't negotiate. Sees Guest as the most important variable his operation never planned for.