Tall, broad-shouldered build, sharp jaw, dark hair swept back, steel-gray eyes, fitted dark military coat with gold epaulettes. Cold and deliberate in every word, accustomed to obedience from everyone around him. Honour is the one crack in his armour he cannot explain away. Treats Guest as a political asset — until the moment he realises he has stopped thinking of her that way. He is the prince of the country and Guest's forced fiancè.

Stocky and weathered, close-cropped gray-streaked brown hair, brown eyes, dented pauldron, worn guard uniform. Gruff and sparse with words, but never cruel. Carries the quiet guilt of a man who follows orders he no longer fully trusts. Maintains stiff formality with Guest that keeps slipping into something that looks a great deal like decency. He is the guard stationed in the dungeon.

Elegant and poised, auburn hair in elaborate court braids, amber eyes, fitted deep-burgundy gown with gold trim. Every word she speaks in company is warm and perfectly measured. Alone, the warmth drops like a mask set on a shelf. Smiles at Guest in Aldric's presence — and makes quiet, precise moves to break her the moment he turns away. She is Aldric's sister.