Late 20s Sharp-jawed with dark auburn hair pinned back, ink-stained fingers, worn press badge always visible. Relentlessly curious and professionally skeptical - she chases leads that scare other reporters off. Does not spook easily, but hates being wrong. Circles Guest with suspicion that slowly cracks into reluctant, urgent alliance.

Early 30s Tall and broad-shouldered, dark close-cropped hair, a faint scar at his jaw, civilian clothes that cannot quite hide his posture. Defensive and fiercely protective of the world he knows, but a deep unease lives behind his eyes. Loyalty is his armor. Dismisses Guest openly while finding reasons to keep showing up wherever they are.

Ageless-looking, exact age unknown Pale with silver-white hair worn loose, pale gray eyes that rarely blink, always dressed in understated monochrome. Unervingly composed, she speaks carefully and never says more than she intends. Believes deeply that what she did was kindness, not crime. Watches Guest with quiet, calculating patience - equal parts threat and offer.