Naci's Healthy Humility Trip

Naci

(1)

Physical

: Fiery amber eyes, black hair, lithe build.

Role

: Self-proclaimed Khan of Tepr; received Moukopl imperial summons; chose to travel to Pezijil with select group for espionage/intelligence; arrives at Pezijil aboard the Blood Lotus; is hosted in the capital under guard but with diplomatic respect; maintains composure and strategic poise in meetings with Shi Min and in front of onlookers; plans and leads a covert nighttime escape from guesthouse to explore Pezijil; mediates conflict with street children and earns grudging respect from Meicao; gifts a carved bone token as a peace offering; meets Crown Prince, learns of Dukar's captivity and heroism; navigates delicate offer of alliance with sharp wit and caution; Escorted through various bureaus and wings of the palace by Sima; maintains composure through his condescension; bends the knee to the emperor under the advice of Yile when faced with the scale of the Moukopl army; accepts the weight of protocol to protect Tepr; begins learning the intricacies of Moukopl hierarchy; Struggles with overwhelming bureaucratic etiquette training imposed by Sima; Breaks into Sima's private office during a night confrontation; catches Sima in a compromising position and mocks him; successfully extracts reluctant cooperation from Sima; leads escape from ambush in palace corridors; confronts Yile inside a temple; accuses him of manipulation but remains strategically engaged with his offer of alliance; Attends diplomatic meeting with Crown Prince; discusses Tepr cavalry tactics and cautions against rushed campaigns; negotiates for more intelligence and resources before committing aid; secures promise of muskets for Tepr; receives a personal musket as a gift; Makes plans to depart, but is intercepted by Shi Min during a late-night snow-covered exchange; Accepts Shi Min's covert offer of intelligence and alliance within the palace; Establishes a hidden line of communication, trusting Shi Min despite reservations; Prepares for departure from Pezijil; Reconnects unexpectedly with Dukar in the middle of the market; forcefully inserts herself into San Lian quest; pays part of San Lian's debt; expresses recognition of San Lian's name from her father's stories; Violently confronts Puripal upon realizing his royal identity; threatens his life to ransom Tepr prisoners; remains unmoved by Dukar's protests; shows ruthlessness and political pragmatism; accepts his information only after Dukar and Puripal reveal the bribe and delay of execution; gifts Fol a reed flute in emotional reconciliation; names him brother and comforts him through breakdown; Prepares to depart Pezijil in an imperial carriage; recruits Meicong after exposing the driver's espionage; continues masking rebellion behind formal diplomacy while building alliances in secrecy.

Relationships

: Wife of Horohan; daughter of Tseren/Gani; sister of Dukar; Khan of Tepr; vassal of the Moukopl emperor; bonded to Uamopak (eagle) and Liara (horse); developing alliance with Shan Xi; Gains Meicao's respect; Clashes with Sima and Yile; deepens trust in Shi Min as a discreet contact; attempts to overwhelm Jinhuang with exaggerated affection; Demonstrates empathy toward Fol and assumes full protective sibling role; reaffirms her leadership through intimidation and compassion alike; begins cautiously trusting Meicong.

Temej

(4)

Physical

: Youthful face, freckled, green-eyed, wears Alinkar tunic.

Role

: Alinkar eagle keeper; Naci's advisor and strategist; in Pezijil, voices concern about being treated like prisoners; repeatedly warns against Naci's impulsive decisions; reluctantly joins nighttime exploration of the city; attempts to de-escalate street confrontation with children; offers reparative trade to Meicao's gang; connects dots between Meicong and Meicao; Skeptical of Sima's flattery and ceremony; Supports Naci through confrontation with Sima, both amused and concerned; struggles to maintain diplomatic composure during Sima's humiliation; accompanies Naci through an ambush and helps fight off attackers; expresses disdain for Yile's cryptic manipulation and warns against trusting him; Observes Naci's exchange with Crown Prince and reacts with concern to gift of musket; shares mutual skepticism about Moukopl weaponry; Rides in the imperial carriage; halts its progress when a child blocks the road; defies the driver to check on the child himself; immediately recognizes Meicong;

Relationships

: Son of Kelik; childhood friend to Horohan; close aide to Naci; comforter and protector of Fol; Disapproves of Naci's recklessness but remains supportive in her shadow; bonds lightly with Lizi and Lanau through shared discomfort with the imperial court.

Sartak

(4)

Physical

: Eagle with storm-gray plumage, sharp predatory eyes.

Role

: Temej's hunting eagle; Released for brief rooftop flight after weeks of confinement; returns reluctantly, showing frustration but obedience.

Relationships

: Bonded to Temej.

Uamopak

(6)

Physical

: Naci's eagle.

Role

: Companion to Naci; remains quiet during the journey but still attentive; Finally released from confinement; takes flight over Pezijil's rooftops in a rare moment of freedom; shows pride, strength, and deep bond with Naci.

Relationships

: Bonded to Naci; likened to Horohan in temperament.

Meicong

(17)

Physical

: Teen girl, agile; Moukopl hanfu over leather tunic, silver hairpins; Originally a Behani boy, renamed Meicong by Kuan.

Role

: Confronted by Meicao, Meice, and Meibei in a violent altercation; defends her loyalty to Yile with ruthless clarity; Fights off her sisters in the palace corridor and courtyard; displays mastery in combat; Taken by Yile after the battle; reports desert activity and confirms her betrayal of Kuan; shows emotional detachment and iron resolve under interrogation; Threatens Yile with a dagger when he lashes out at her over Kuan's fate; confirms she stabbed Kuan but refuses to mourn him or assure Yile of his survival; Flees through Pezijil rooftops during a chaotic chase with Meice; avoids direct confrontation when possible, but holds her own in escalating physical exchanges; ends pursuit at Temple of Whispers where she reflects on the question of freedom; Expresses disillusionment with Yile, Meice, and herself; Blocks the carriage en route from Pezijil; briefly threatens the driver and exposes his duplicity; requests sanctuary with Naci, offering information and allegiance; claims to be turning against Yile; reveals Kuan is safe and in Tepr; successfully convinces Naci to let her join the group—for now.

Relationships

: former cover role as bodyguard to Kuan/Konir; adversary to Kuan; Siblings with Meice, Meicao, and Meibei (all renamed by Kuan); Once served as Liwei's secret bodyguard and combat mentor; is the object of Liwei's quiet admiration and affection; Begins to fracture emotionally; Confronted by her siblings; fights Meice and Meicao physically, defended by Meibei; tenuous bonds with them begin to collapse; Threatens Yile in a fit of fury and exhaustion; continues spiralling under pressure from all sides; Begins realignment toward Naci's faction, but her sincerity remains in question.

Fol

(30)

Physical

: Young, black hair, deep brown eyes.

Role

: Skilled Nipih rider; deeply traumatized by watching Jinlü Feng's keelhauling; exhibits a violent and unhinged response by mutilating his corpse; expresses both guilt and desperate loyalty to Naci; Accompanies Naci into Pezijil; joins music and dance in local courtyard; nearly escalates confrontation with street children by drawing weapon but relents on Naci's signal; reacts protectively when Naci is approached by strangers; Struggles to conform to Moukopl court etiquette; Experiences emotional breakdown while searching for Naci; confesses to sleep deprivation, guilt, and trauma from Blood Lotus incident; breaks down in tears, expressing obsessive fear of failure; comforted and calmed by Lanau and Lizi; Triggered by market music; suffers panic attack due to memories of Jinlü Feng's death; collapses, and must be helped by Temej; Explodes into violence during confrontation with Puripal; attempts to kill him, nearly striking Naci in the process; tackled by Dukar; fights Ta brutally; beaten unconscious by Jinhuang; Awakes shattered, wracked with guilt and confusion; emotionally broken when confronted by Naci; receives forgiveness and the symbolic gift of a flute; breaks down, accepting her as a sister and protector; Sits silently in the carriage departing Pezijil, gripping the flute Naci gave him like a talisman; shows signs of continued emotional fragility but remains calm; lets out a hoarse laugh at a joke, hinting at flickers of healing.

Relationships

: Member of Naci's retinue; feared by Lanau; completely absorbed by Naci's ideology; Recognized by Shan Xi and Na'Er as emotionally changed; Relationship with Lizi and Lanau subtly transforms, as they begin to act as emotional anchors rather than just comrades; Continues to unravel internally; fiercely loyal but increasingly fragile; reaffirmed by Naci's compassion and named her sibling; begins healing process.

Lanau

(31)

Physical

: Serene confidence, calm gaze.

Role

: One of Naci's chosen warriors for Pezijil; daughter of politically calculating Axi-Örukai father; carries emotional burden from childhood caretaking responsibilities; overcome with grief after Kalez's death; surrenders emotionally to Naci's embrace and ideology; Participates in Naci's visit to Pezijil; engages in nighttime city outing; gets her coin pouch stolen and triggers pursuit of thief; Accompanies Naci to the palace; remains composed in face of Sima's subtle needling; senses political danger escalating; Shares private conversation with Lizi in the guest room; reveals emotional restraint and subtle empathy; comforts Lizi after traumatic confession; helps steady Fol during his breakdown, taking on a caretaker role again; Cautious in crowded market, attempts to dissuade unnecessary attention; Negotiates sharply with merchant over tea set, protecting Naci from being overcharged; handles coin exchange at San Lian's bar with humor and diplomacy; takes lead in settling the bar debt and defusing further conflict with barkeeper; Provides sharp insight during conversation with Puripal; identifies his royal ring as Yohazatz sigil; helps escalate confrontation that reveals his status; intervenes to protect Ta during Fol's assault; supports Naci's decisions and leads Fol away after his breakdown; assists Naci in comforting Fol; supports Temej's effort to help a street child and reacts with calm poise during the chaos.

Relationships

: Member of Naci's retinue; protective of Fol; diplomat to Shan Xi; caretaker of niece Alahe; Now emotionally and ideologically bound to Naci; Relationship with Lizi deepens emotionally; Assumes protective role in public situations, remains Naci's calm anchor; Growing awareness of Fol's fragility and personal emotional growth; Serves as financial spokesperson.

Shan Xi ("The Blood Lotus") (

37)

Physical

: Athletic, sun-kissed skin, scarred, midnight-dark hair, stormy eyes.

Role

: Pirate queen commanding the Red Cliff Survivor; leads all-woman pirate fleet; intimidating and flamboyant leadership style; Commands the Red Cliff Survivor in Pezijil harbor; responds with theatrical rage to news of Naci's imperial kowtowing, but immediately deduces the ruse; orchestrates a cannon blast to topple a statue as a warning; declares continued chaos against the empire.

Relationships

: Beloved leader to pirate crew; potential ally to Naci; interrogator and captor of Lanau; orders Jinlü Feng's execution; respects competence and toughness; Now formally allied with Naci.

Lizi

(39)

Physical

: Not described in detail;

Role

: Pirate under Shan Xi; responsible for handling explosives; known for incidents involving near-disastrous explosions; warns others not to misuse explosive materials; interacts playfully with Lanau; respected enough to be entrusted with secret locations of ship armaments; serves as quartermaster or supply overseer aboard Blood Lotus; follows Naci into Pezijil; protests being used as a bargaining chip for access to Shan Xi's ships; Offers comic relief during the stifling tour of imperial bureaucracy; mocks the grandeur and political theater in whispers to Temej; displays sharp awareness of performative power; Shares intimate conversation with Lanau about her past; reveals traumatic childhood; uses humor to mask pain but eventually breaks down; comforts Fol during his panic attack and acts as emotional bridge within the group; Returns to the Red Cliff Survivor with Shan Xi; delivers coded message from Naci—"the vulture circles, but the hawk waits"; confirms the Khan's fealty was a ruse.

Relationships

: Pirate under Shan Xi; trusted by Shan Xi; Gossips with Na'Er about Fol; informally monitors crew behavior; Maintains functional companionship with Naci's group during the Pezijil mission;

Growing bond with Lanau; acts as an emotional stabilizer for both Lanau and Fol; Acts as liaison between Naci and Shan Xi, trusted with secretive information and imperial surveillance insights.

Shi Min

(61)

Physical

:

Tall; carries herself with authority and dignity.

Role

:

Governor of Zenyu; leads reconstruction after pirate attack; oversees security and relief logistics; personally confirms deaths of soldiers and identifies missing dignitaries from Tepr; travels to Pezijil to alert the imperial government; meets with Official Mo and Eunuch Sima to escalate the urgency; coordinates diplomatic reception of Naci's group; observes their arrival with suspicion; later checks on their accommodations and secretly follows political adversaries through the capital; increasingly wary of alliances and power plays within the city; authorizes Naci's audience with the emperor and prepares escort for next day; Escorts Naci's party into the palace; warns Naci to avoid Yile; shows wariness toward court politics and internal manipulation; maintains careful neutrality while facilitating tense diplomatic introductions; Confronted privately by her father, Official Mo, in a secluded pavilion after a formal court meeting; Attempts to remain composed but expresses anger and disappointment over Mo's alliance with Yile and abandonment of moral ideals; Reveals her awareness of deeper conspiracies and internal betrayal; Affirms her belief in reform without compromise; Severs emotional ties after a bitter ideological dispute, walking away from Mo and reaffirming her personal convictions; Attempts to leave Pezijil but is intercepted by Yile at the gate; is psychologically manipulated into staying with veiled offers of power; reluctantly agrees to remain at court to retain influence and support reform; Later meets Naci privately at night; offers alliance and vow to serve as informant within the palace; declares willingness to play Yile's game to preserve values from within;

Relationships

:

Reports to imperial authorities; communicates with and now hosts Naci's group as official envoys; distrusts political undercurrents in Pezijil and senses danger surrounding Naci's arrival; Daughter of Official Mo; Once respected his principles, but now sees him as a cautionary example of cynicism; Stands in ideological opposition to his political compromises; Increasingly isolated but resolute; Now a covert ally of Naci, risking her career and safety to assist from within; Falls under Yile's political influence but remains self-aware and cautious.

Horohan's Funeral Watch

Horohan

(1)

Physical

: Slender, long black braided hair, deep brown eyes.

Role

: Khatun of Tepr; Now commands Tepr coalition in Naci's absence; Shows emotional restraint and calm authority as she inspects Kolopan district; emphasizes unity and peace despite undercurrents of tension; directs scouts and maintains high alert for Naci's return; participates in winter games to build morale and display unity among tribes; maintains command and diplomacy in dealing with tension from past violence; displays loyalty and strategic foresight by sending Tovak as envoy to Nedai; Performs rare blood sacrifice during Tovak's funeral; leads council with firmness; balances tribal pressures and Kuan's radical tactics; reinforces decision to use espionage; expresses personal guilt and sorrow over Tovak's death; initiates psychological and political warfare against Noga.

Relationships

: Daughter of Urumol/Lizem; wife of Naci; bonded to Khatan (eagle) and Khanai (white tiger); childhood friend to Akun and Temej; admired by Lanau; caretaker of Kuan; Trusted by Pomogr and Kuan; watches over Tovak as envoy; indirectly opposed by Noga; Seen grieving privately for Tovak; protected by Khanai during emotional moments; confronted by chieftains on wartime choices; upheld by Kuan in strategy debates.

Khatan (3)

Physical

:

Eagle with deep brown/white-streaked feathers, commanding presence;

Role

:

Horohan's bonded eagle; aids in battles and hunting; protects Naci's fledgling; shares playful companionship with Horohan; perches on her shoulder; obeys her vocal cues; jealous of Khanai for Horohan's attention.

Relationships

:

Companion to Horohan; protective of Naci's fledgling eagle; Interacts regularly with Khanai.

Kuan (Konir)

(9)

Physical

: Fox-like eyes, mischievous smile; Wounded by a stab to the abdomen; Disguises himself regularly; Wears a patchwork cloak stitched with crow feathers and wolf teeth.

Role

: Raised an eunuch, now Orogol shaman; Jokes with Pomogr and Tovak during winter games; lightens camp mood but stokes tension when discussing political consequences of Nedai and Urumol's past dealings; provokes Horohan with veiled admissions of complicity in past imperial actions; warns her about unknown shamanic influences among Nedai;

Confronts Meicong in a flashback, holding a knife to her throat; accused of betrayal but explains his original plan to deceive Yile; persuades Meicong to stab him non-lethally to fake betrayal; orchestrates his own downfall to protect long-term strategy; reemerges as survivor in enemy camp; Conducts Tovak's funeral ritual; participates in shamanic invocation and symbolic sendoff; comforts Horohan with dark humor; proposes espionage strategy at council; volunteers to train scouts in sabotage and infiltration; swears to avenge Tovak.

Relationships

: Former master of Meicong (cover); confidant of Horohan; enemy of Darijin; adoptive son of Hunan; rival and emotional counterpart to Yile; friends with Jia, whose death marked a turning point in his emotional evolution; Suspects the emperor of orchestrating Hunan's death; maintains trust with Meicong through a staged betrayal; deceives Yile by appearing defeated; Mourned by both the Emperor and Yile; Bonds with Horohan during funeral rites; clashes with tribal chieftains over strategy; commits to vengeance for Tovak.

Pomogr

(10)

Physical

: Grizzled, fierce gaze.

Role

: Haikam chieftain; allied with Naci; supports Horohan in keeping the coalition together; Provides banter and camaraderie during winter games; startled by Khatan and Khanai; expresses concern for Tovak's mission to Nedai; Attends and contributes to funeral of Tovak; leaves arrow as symbolic tribute; argues fiercely against retreat; supports decision to sabotage enemy resources; continues as Horohan's wartime ally despite tensions.

Relationships

: Leader of Haikam; subordinate to Naci's authority; trusted councilor to Horohan; Often bickers with Kuan, provides balance to his sarcasm; Seen grieving Tovak; remains loyal despite friction with other tribal leaders; maintains a practical stance in war council.

Khanai

(35)

Physical

: Massive white tiger, lounging comfortably; reacts like a housecat under Horohan's touch.

Role

: Companion and protector to Horohan; ferocious in battle; now a symbol of Horohan's strength; presence unnerves others but reinforces Horohan's authority; displays playful, affectionate behavior; fights alone against Alinkar warriors during Akun's raid; Participates in winter games by pouncing on archery targets; her limp and scars mark her past wounds; awes and terrifies spectators; reinforces Horohan's legendary image; expresses possessive behavior around Horohan.

Relationships

: Bonded to Horohan; seen as rival to Khatan for Horohan's affection; Grows closer to camp community as a source of awe and fear.

Tovak

(45)

Physical

: Young Alinkar warrior; Described as reliable and stealthy.

Role

: Scout chosen by Horohan to investigate the state of frozen rivers before the attack on Kolopan; accompanies Konir to the Kolopan encampment as both spy and emissary; struggles with fear, awkwardness, and admiration for Konir; converses about fear and death; attempts to be courageous and diplomatic; witnesses sacred shamanic duel between Konir and Darijin; held at knifepoint by Akun during confrontation; returns with Konir to report back to Horohan; Chosen by Horohan to represent Tepr in a diplomatic envoy to the Nedai; ambushed by foreign riders bearing unknown banners; captured, wounded, and brought before Noga; endures interrogation and physical abuse; maintains loyalty to Horohan even under pressure; perceives Batu's betrayal and Akun's hatred; his head is sent to the Tepr coalition as a declaration of war.

Relationships

: Subordinate to Horohan; companion and subordinate to Konir; target of Akun's aggression; Prisoner of Noga who sends his head as a declaration of war; Remembered and mourned by Kuan, Pomogr, Horohan; Called "little brother" by Pomogr.

Chuluun

(87)

Physical

: Not described in detail.

Role

: Chief of the Hareki, a lower Tepr tribe; Advocates for retreat to Tengr foothills during council discussion; seen as cautious or defeatist by others.

Relationships

: Member of Tepr coalition; subordinate to Horohan; debates strategy with Pomogr and Bürgei.

Bürgei

(87)

Physical

: Strong middle-aged woman.

Role

: Leader of the Sulnek, a minor Tepr tribe; Skeptical of Tepr's military readiness; criticizes emotional decisions and reliance on spies; serves as voice of traditional caution

.

Relationships

: Part of Horohan's war council; challenges Kuan's influence; expresses distrust toward Horohan's strategy.

Moukopl Drama Headquarters (Pezijil)

Liwei

(18)

Physical

: Youthful, fair skin, coal-black hair, intense gray eyes; lavish blue/white robes.

Role

: Moukopl noble; At thirteen, left in the imperial city as a noble hostage after his father's political downfall: Trained for two years by Yile (strategy, power structures) and Kuan (reading political symbolism) Lived under constant scrutiny and threat; his father bartered his own resignation for Liwei and his brother's safety; Grew close to Meicong, who served as his harsh but effective bodyguard; Trained in silent movement, sparring, and subterfuge; formed an emotional (unreciprocated) attachment to Meicong; Was pressured by Yile to destroy fabricated evidence implicating his father in treason—conditional on getting close to the Crown Prince. Confronts the Crown Prince in the palace after a dispute; accuses him of suppressing ambition and controlling him through political threats; storms out of the chamber after being nearly attacked; later reveals to Yile that one of his maids died suddenly, showing signs of poison; suspects the poison was meant for him and that the maid died tasting his food; fears for his life and seeks validation of these suspicions from Yile; becomes deeply paranoid and determined to act before he is eliminated; begins questioning all court loyalties; Briefly appears in the palace courtyard following the sisters' fight; Meicong spots him but deliberately avoids explanation or engagement; His second maid reportedly commits suicide by poison; Attempts to mediate during volatile noble gathering; inadvertently survives a coordinated assassination attempt in the Hall of Accord; confronts Meicao posing as Meicong; is captured by them while they tell him that the Crown Prince planned this attack.

Relationships

: Student of Yile; Clashes violently with the Crown Prince; begins to trust Yile more than the royal family; believes himself a marked man; in love with Meicong (unilateral); Subject to covert attacks; Yile appears to be orchestrating and exploiting his paranoia.

Crown Prince

(23)

Physical

:

Jade skin, androgynous beauty, effeminate features, regal attire.

Role

:

Moukopl heir; led desert campaign; imprisoned in Yohazatz; freed by Dukar; Greets Naci personally at the palace; publicly expresses gratitude for Dukar's heroism; offers alliance with Tepr in exchange for joint action against Yohazatz; seeks diplomatic cooperation and trust; surprises Naci with honesty and vulnerability; speaks with humility and genuine warmth despite courtly expectations; Interrupts Sima's interrogation to support Naci; ensures her path to the Emperor is honored; described as warm and disarming amidst political hostility; Discusses military failures and need for better intelligence with Naci; offers weapons and support in exchange for future Tepr involvement; gifts Naci a personal musket; Explodes in fury during confrontation with Liwei; accuses him of arrogance and betrayal; shatters porcelain teacup in a violent outburst; is restrained from further escalation by Yile's subtle intervention; reveals volatility beneath his otherwise calm and courteous demeanor; Receives Dukar—disguised as Bazhin—before recognizing his true identity; laughs in delight when Dukar reveals himself; reaffirms the debt he owes Dukar for saving his life; shows willingness to entertain a joint campaign against Qaloron Khan; Openly skeptical but intrigued by the proposed alliance with Yohazatz dissenters; Maintains an unpredictable and dangerous charm, revealing a taste for theatrical power.

Relationships

:

Heir to Moukopl Empire; rescued by Dukar; student of Yile; son of the Emperor; Supports Naci's dignity publicly and possibly sees her as a future ally; Shares bond of gratitude toward Tepr; Open to military reform and diplomacy; shown to harbor potential for cruelty and coercive control; Interacts with Puripal and Dukar as part of political theater; evaluates their plan to destabilize Qaloron Khan's power.

Doxi

(27)

Physical

: Withered, frail Moukopl official, wrinkled skin, yellowed teeth, wears traditional robes.

Role

: Cruel and greedy Moukopl official ruling An'alm; oppresses the Siza tribes; clashes with Ghuba; threatens Linh; killed by Linh's musket; In the past, arrested Governor Aras under fabricated charges of conspiracy; oversaw brutal interrogations and death sentences; replaced Aras as Governor of Bos; manipulated tribunal to maintain control.

Relationships

: Adversary to Ghuba and Linh; oppressor of the Siza; Political rival and executioner of Aras.

Official Mo

(28)

Physical

: Middle-aged, lean/haggard, angular features, gray-temple hair (meticulously combed), constantly adjusting wire-framed glasses, piercing brown eyes hinting at boredom.

Role

: Cruel, cynical Moukopl official overseeing the siege of Meln; dismisses rebels; fascinated by pirate muskets; orders execution of surrendering fisherman; plans to acquire muskets for the empire; Attends opulent banquet in Pezijil; sarcastically critiques the Emperor's handling of Bos rebellion; discusses barbarian muskets and proposes incorporating them into imperial forces; advocates modernization of Moukopl military through firearms; envisions a future with gunpowder warfare; Receives Governor Shi Min's confidential report; agrees to help facilitate access to court via Eunuch Sima; shown later secretly meeting Yile; Presents musket argument to Emperor and war council; proposes adoption of gunpowder infantry; pushes modernization with fervent logic and personal observation; shows frustration at resistance; Privately meets with Shi Min in a tea pavilion after palace meeting; their conversation reveals he is her father; Argues about ideals versus realism, showing increasing bitterness and shame; Reveals strategic alignment with Eunuch Yile despite professed disdain, justifying it as pragmatic power politics; Tries to defend his choices as survival tactics in a corrupt system.

Relationships

: Represents Moukopl imperial authority; Converses with General Han; advocates for Li Song's return to active duty; Shares dubious political connections beyond official duties; Aligns tactically with General Han; trusted to introduce sensitive military reform; Father of Shi Min; Disagrees ideologically with her; relationship strained by betrayal of former values and growing disillusionment; Secret dealings with Eunuch Yile.

The Emperor

(30)

Physical

: Not described; presence marked by voice and ceremonial garb (crown with chiming ornaments).

Role

: Supreme ruler of the Moukopl Empire; deliberates with eunuch factions; values Yile's counsel; Receives Naci with calculated openness; engages her in philosophical discourse on rulership and mercy; listens respectfully but ultimately overwhelms her with a display of military dominance; watches as she kneels in submission; allows her survival as strategic compliance; Privately confesses insomnia, paranoia, and emotional vulnerability to Yile; clings to memories of Kuan and Hunan; expresses deep longing for Kuan's return.

Relationships

: Father of Crown Prince; former emotional tie to Kuan; emotional tie to Yile; manipulates loyalty through awe.

Sima

(42)

Physical

: Middle-aged, hawkish nose, piercing eyes.

Role

: One of the Four Gates Eunuchs (Western Bureau); oversees internal administration; warns of Siza rebellions; opposes Yile's plan to use Naci, advocating for assassination instead; agrees to meet with Governor Shi Min and receives her intelligence on the Tepr envoys and Naci; appears more pragmatic and composed than other court officials; Greets Naci with condescension; clearly dislikes the attention she receives; cut short by Crown Prince's intervention; Conducts elaborate political tour of palace with Naci and entourage; subtly flaunts power and hierarchy; tests Naci's composure with veiled insults and barbed courtesies; tries to impose imperial superiority through rhetorical ceremony; Maintains tight control of access and information; Caught in an intimate moment with a young assistant by Naci and Temej; reacts with outrage and panic; humiliated by Naci's relentless teasing and exposure of his vulnerability; attempts to reassert control but is forced to concede to Naci's demands for unfiltered records; warns them not to speak of what they saw; remains a powerful but increasingly unstable bureaucratic force in the story; Clashes with Yile on palace steps in a public display of rivalry and hostility; rattled by lightning striking the imperial banner and tries to downplay the omen; mocked by Yile for panicking; shaken by implications for imperial legitimacy; Appears in a palanquin exchange with Yile; delivers pointed verbal sparring filled with innuendo and threats; Viewed as a terrifying figure by San Lian, who hides at the mere sound of his voice; Arrested and publicly disgraced under charges of conspiracy; betrayed by Yile; dragged through the palace by Imperial Guards despite protests; exposes that Western Bureau's audits implicate the emperor; warns that truth will surface in blood.

Relationships

: Rival of Yile; member of the Four Gates Eunuchs; commands assistant Lipu; subordinate to the Emperor; Supports Shi Min's efforts for stability; Antagonist to San Lian; seeks to uncover conspiracy from Gujel's disappearance; increasingly at odds with various court factions; Betrayed by Yile.

Old Ji

(42)

Physical

:

Elderly, long white beard, frail but sharp-eyed.

Role

:

One of the Four Gates Eunuchs (Northern Bureau); oversees military matters; focused on implementing fire weapon advancements; supports deliberation in imperial strategy; Discusses potential smuggling of saltpetre through the Treasure Fleet; interrogates Bimen about cargo manifests and illegal trade; deduces there may be a secret controller of saltpetre in the empire; Shocked by lightning strike on the imperial banner and voices concern about imperial legitimacy and divine favor.

Relationships

:

Member of the Four Gates Eunuchs; reports to the Emperor; Appears to collaborate tactically with Bimen; Warns Sima and Yile about growing unrest and rumors of divine anger.

Bimen

(42)

Physical

:

Younger, rotund, ornate rings, conciliatory demeanor.

Role

:

One of the Four Gates Eunuchs (Southern Bureau); manages treasure fleets and southern economic affairs; avoids political confrontation; defers during strategic debate; reports harvest success; Pressed by Ji for information on cargo; admits the Treasure Fleet's manifest lacked saltpetre, suggests smuggling may be occurring; panics during lightning strike and calls it an omen; fears rebellion and insurrection.

Relationships

:

Member of the Four Gates Eunuchs; reports to the Emperor; Serves as Ji's source on fleet records; indirectly highlights economic corruption in the empire.

Lipu

(44)

Physical

: Not described.

Role

: Sima's young eunuch assistant; caught in a compromising position with Sima in his office; panics under scrutiny but attempts to maintain professional demeanor.

Relationships

: Subordinate to Sima; target of Naci's teasing and suspicion; present during the confrontation between Naci and Sima.

General Han

(59)

Physical

: Not described.

Role

: Senior Moukopl general attending banquet in Pezijil; jokes about Bos rebellion and imperial overreaction; reveals General Li Song's recall from retirement; discusses explosive weapons and expresses casual skepticism of Mo's firearm ideas, but agrees to support him; Backs Mo's musket proposal during imperial war council; tempers resistance with military reasoning; positions himself as both realist and reformist; Displays curiosity about Mo's personal relationship with Shi Min, but respects Mo's request for privacy.

Relationships

: Colleague of Official Mo; supporter of imperial military policy; Shows cordial familiarity with Shi Min; aware of the underlying tension between her and Mo.

Lord Xun

(90)

Physical

: Elderly noble with silver-threaded beard, prone to bluster and shouting.

Role

: Traditionalist noble; vocal critic of eunuch power and Auditors' Council; rails against taxation changes and loss of military autonomy; symbolic of old-guard resistance.

Relationships

: Clashes with Lady Meifeng and Liwei in court; represents conservative resistance faction.

Lady Meifeng

(90)

Physical

: Sophisticated older noblewoman; adorned in phoenix pins usually reserved for consorts.

Role

: Cunning noble; master of court insults and power games; mocks traditionalist men; provides veiled commentary on empire's decline; one of the first to die during the Hall of Accord poisoning.

Relationships

: Taunts Lord Xun and Wenqing; dies horrifically during Meicao's attack.

Lord Wenqing

(90)

Physical

: Boisterous older nobleman; drinks heavily, loud and impulsive.

Role

: Reactionary noble; furious at eunuchs' rise in imperial administration; collapses and dies during poisoning.

Relationships

: Allies with Lord Xun; briefly argues with Liwei and Meifeng before dying.

Lord An

(90)

Physical

: Young, quiet, devout; carries rosary.

Role

: Idealist noble; loyalist to emperor; defends court harmony but is poisoned and dies gasping.

Relationships

: Initially calm voice during argument; killed during palace massacre.

Lord Hui

(90)

Physical

: Young noble; carries ceremonial dagger with crane motif.

Role

: Noble present at the Hall of Accord; the only one to draw a weapon during the attack; decapitated by Meicao in a single stroke.

Relationships

: No close political affiliations mentioned; Killed while attempting to defend other nobles from Yile's assassins.

Minister Zhou Ming

(90)

Physical

: Elder statesman; not directly described, remembered by his son.

Role

: Former Minister of War/Strategist; once favored by the Jade Throne; negotiated Treaty of An'alm; forced to resign under suspicion of overreach; sacrifices career to protect sons.

Relationships

: Father of Liwei and Liwei's elder brother; politically connected to the Northern Marquis; Mentioned posthumously as a strategic influence in Liwei's upbringing.

Yile's Gossip Club

Yile

(18)

Physical

: Eunuch with delicate features, raven-black hair (jade ornament), almond eyes; green silks; painted lips, fan adorned with cherry blossoms; calm presence.

Role

: Eunuch of the Eastern Bureau; advisor to royalty; manipulator of palace politics; orchestrated assassination within the court; commands Meicao, Meibei, Meice, and Meicong; confidant of the Emperor; smirks at Sima's struggles; visibly enjoys imperial trust and uses fan to conceal amusement; subtly dominates court atmosphere through personal and political charisma; Spotted in clandestine conversation with Official Mo; confirms that Naci's arrival is highly significant to his plans; Intervenes in Naci's path to the Emperor under pretense of etiquette training; uses veiled threats to pressure her into compliance; praises Naci's intelligence and urges subtle compromise over open defiance; Orchestrates a staged ambush and rescue to lure Naci to a private temple; confronts her with offers of alliance; presents himself as the only honest manipulator in the palace; attempts to sway her into cooperation through calculated candor and philosophical persuasion; Engages in escalating rivalry with Sima over control of Naci and influence within court; Confronts Shi Min at the palace gates and manipulates her into staying, offering power in exchange for loyalty and positioning himself as the path to influence; Warns her that leaving means irrelevance; Meets privately with Liwei in a courtyard after a violent dispute with the Crown Prince; listens closely as Liwei suspects he was targeted for assassination via poison; subtly confirms his suspicion with calculated sympathy and ambiguous truth; reinforces Liwei's paranoia to drive a wedge between the prince and his allies; suggests the poisoning was a warning, not yet the final strike; sows seeds of distrust while appearing empathetic; Later, receives Meicong in a secluded alcove; becomes enraged when she reveals she stabbed Kuan; nearly strikes her but refrains; warns Meicong of the grave danger she has put their plans in; Confronts Meicong after her fight with her sisters; manipulates the Emperor emotionally while masking his internal crisis over Kuan's apparent death; Expresses conflicting grief and triumph; lashes out at Meicong violently before breaking down; Orders Meice to kill Meicong in a final attempt to reclaim control; Appears in public palanquin procession alongside Sima; engages in ornate verbal combat; Seen later in the Crown Prince's presence when Dukar enters disguised as Bazhin; tries to discredit Puripal and assert control of the situation; Displays veiled hostility and simmering jealousy over losing influence; Caught off-guard by the shift in court dynamics, but continues playing the role of controlled menace; Sees through Puripal's motives quickly and mocks him as a bastard with no leverage; Reasserts power through assassination plot during Hall of Accord poisoning; orchestrates simultaneous destabilization of Western Bureau through betrayal of Sima; remains central manipulator of empire's unravelling.

Relationships

: Trusted by the Emperor; rival of Sima; manipulator of Kexing; commander of Meicao, Meibei, Meice; adoptive son of Hunan; rival and confidant of Kuan; suspects the emperor in Hunan's death; Now establishes a direct adversarial-yet-cooperative line to Naci; Deepens psychological pressure on Shi Min; Tightens grip over Liwei through psychological manipulation; furious with Meicong for jeopardizing their secret alliance; Reveals deep emotional and psychological entanglement with Kuan; breaks composure over Meicong's actions; issues direct kill order to Meice; Directly responsible for Sima's arrest and execution of Western Bureau purge; coordinates Hall of Accord massacre.

Kexing

(29)

Physical

: Young maidservant, modest attire.

Role

: Maidservant to the third consort; abused by head maid/senior maidservants; manipulated by Yile; pretends to rescue Naci and Temej during ambush; leads them to temple; nearly strangled by Naci before Yile intervenes; Delivers intelligence to Yile about the second maid in Liwei's household committing suicide by poison; receives cold praise from Yile for her effectiveness; Clearly continues to operate as one of Yile's discreet instruments for internal sabotage; Appears again beside Yile during tactical discussions of assassinations; confirms Sima's purge with quiet efficiency; remains emotionally disconnected, reliable, and obedient.

Relationships

: Maidservant to the third consort; protege/manipulated agent of Yile; Feeds Yile critical updates on Liwei's household; remains under his psychological control despite past trauma.

Meicao

(29)

Physical

: Girl with a bowl-cut hairstyle, playful demeanor; gaunt and feral-looking from street life; Clean but inconspicuous clothing; hair tied with ribbon; wields a chained scythe.

Role

: One of Yile's associates; former Behani palace monk child; expelled for killing Shag'hal-Tyn shaman; recruited and renamed by Kuan; now leads gang of pickpockets in Pezijil; assists in covert intelligence and street-level operations; is given an amulet by Naci in exchange for Lanau's wallet; spars with Jinhuang; is defeated but remains proud and dominant over her gang; secretly reports to Yile; Joins Meice and Meibei to confront Meicong after her betrayal; devastated by the perceived execution of Kuan; initiates combat with Meicong in palace corridors; displays deep emotional conflict and violent loyalty to Kuan; Takes part in the Hall of Accord massacre; decapitates Lord Hui with her scythe in a fluid, theatrical execution; expresses twisted pleasure in violence; acts as the primary enforcer of Yile's massacre plot.

Relationships

: Subordinate/associate of Yile; sister to Meicong, Meice, and Meibei; respects Naci; Antagonistic rivalry with Jinhuang; Resents Meicong's betrayal; continues field role but clearly fractured in trust and loyalty; confronts Meicong with anguish and outrage; clashes with Meibei over restraint.

Meibei

(29)

Physical

: Serious demeanor.

Role

: One of Yile's associates; retrieves Meicao's scythe; urges obedience to Yile; Acts as voice of reason during violent conflict between sisters; attempts to calm Meice and Meicao; fights defensively using baton; provides strategic insight to Yile post-conflict and confirms presence of the Khan's allies; Participates in the Hall of Accord poisoning with silent efficiency; uses martial precision to subdue targets and manage flow of violence; works seamlessly with Meicong and Meicao, showing tactical professionalism.

Relationships

: Subordinate/associate of Yile; sister to Meicong, Meicao, Meice; Acts as rational intermediary in group; delivers intel that may shift Yile's next move; Tries to prevent sisters from killing each other; shields Meicong at times despite disapproving of her betrayal; Defers to Yile post-conflict with measured obedience.

Meice

(29)

Physical

:

Energetic, reckless.

Role

:

One of Yile's associates; Erupts with violent rage after learning of Meicong's stabbing of Kuan and his presumed death; attacks Meicong alongside Meicao; uses bare fists with brutal force; driven by grief and wrath; refuses to listen to reason; nearly overpowers Meicong; Encountered by Yile in the snowy courtyard; watches him collapse and drink her liquor; Listens as he orders her to kill Meicong, and accepts the command with feral delight; Pursues Meicong across Pezijil rooftops and bridges; exchanges vicious physical blows and bitter philosophy; reveals deep emotional injury; scorns Meicong's perceived cowardice; shows flashes of vulnerability and twisted affection; Accepts final parting with the threat of death if Meicong returns to the palace.

Relationships

:

Subordinate/associate of Yile; sister to Meicong, Meibei, Meicao; Loyal to Kuan; brash and emotionally reactive under stress; Displays intense sibling fury at Meicong; fights Meibei when restrained; halted only by Yile's command; Enlisted by Yile to assassinate Meicong; Begins rejecting Yile's authority even while fulfilling his orders; mentally unstable, increasingly driven by personal grief and fractured loyalty.

Peng

(85)

Physical

: Barrel-chested man in imperial uniform.

Role

: Third Undersecretary of Equine and Diplomatic Conveyances; appointed to escort Naci and her group from Pezijil by carriage; overly formal and obsequious, proud of his "command-pooping" pigeons; Revealed to be an imperial informant or spy for Yile; recognizes Meicong and tries to stop her; is disarmed and humiliated before being killed.

Relationships

: Serves the imperial court, possibly under Yile's direct orders; Publicly humiliated by Meicong and killed by Naci.

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Noga's Iliad

Akun

(6)

Physical

: Alinkar warrior.

Role

: Rescued Urumol; led retreat to Kolopan; now leads a Kolopan rebel cavalry unit; threatens Tovak and confronts Konir; reveals continued hostility toward Tepr coalition; orchestrates daring raid across frozen river into Tepr camp; leads pillaging of Tepr settlement; nearly killed by white tiger during attack; barely survives and is rescued by fellow warriors wielding fire; engages in brutal one-on-one combat with Khanai; wounds her slightly but is ultimately defeated; spared when she retreats due to arrow wound; rallies surviving warriors; receives reinforcements from Noga's army and swears fealty in exchange for vengeance against Naci and Horohan; Appears in Noga's camp as one of his trusted allies; filled with hatred for Horohan and Tepr; denounces her as a usurper; urges Tovak's execution; supports Noga's imperialistic ambitions; acts as enforcer for Noga's orders in Nedai territory; Clashes with Noga during a public confrontation; demands to be allowed to scout ahead; is humiliated and degraded in front of the Yohazatz soldiers; forced to clean Noga's horse under threat; Shown chafing under subservient role despite alliance.

Relationships

: Alinkar warrior; childhood friend to Horohan; enemy to Tepr forces and Konir; forms alliance with Noga; desires revenge against Horohan; Estranged from former Tepr companions; fuels internal schisms; Publicly mocked by Yohazatz soldiers; power dynamic with Noga shifts from alliance to subjugation.

Batu

(9)

Physical

:

Nedai chieftain.

Role

:

Chief of the Nedai tribe; old ally of Jabliu/Tseren; reveals Nedai men were also drafted; unable to offer aid due to Moukopl conscription; offers hospitality; later seen scheming with Noga of Yohazatz against Naci; downplays her achievements; offers intel and ambition to dethrone her; Present during Tovak's capture; visibly distressed by Noga's treatment of the envoy; clearly under pressure or duress; says little but betrays lack of power and hints of regret.

Relationships

:

Chieftain of Nedai; friend/ally of Tseren (Jabliu); husband of Tuya; negotiating with Noga; pawn in Noga's imperial design.

Noga

(18)

Physical

:

Tall, burnished skin, tight ebony curls; azure tunic, gemmed sabre; Rides a midnight warhorse draped in tiger pelts, silver bells braided into mane; Wears midnight-blue robe in private.

Role

:

Heir of Yohazatz; military commander; visits Batu seeking information on Naci; conceals political motives under courteous diplomacy; implies Yohazatz may support a coup if a strong leader arises in Tepr; referenced by Nemeh and Qaloron as bold and ambitious; gathers his own group to travel east and rally supporters; charismatic military leader; offers Akun alliance against Naci and Horohan; proposes fealty to Yohazatz monarchy; delivers theatrical ultimatum and charms Alinkar rebels into submission; Revealed as leader of masked riders who capture Tovak; humiliates and physically punishes Tovak to assert dominance; manipulates Batu and Akun to serve his larger conquest; claims spiritual superiority through shamanic foresight; warns that Horohan's coalition is fragile and doomed; Leads Yohazatz camp with theatrical cruelty and calculated charm; humiliates Akun before his generals; commands an army living off land; praises Tepr's scorched earth strategy as worthy resistance; Revealed via Puripal to possibly be responsible for the death of their first brother Aralën, the heir of Yohazatz.

Relationships

:

Son of Qaloron Khan; brother to Aralën, Puripal and Nemeh; meets with Batu and Tuya, suggesting potential alliance; likely estranged from Nemeh; forms alliance with Akun; positions himself as challenger to Tepr unity; Now primary antagonist seeking to destabilize Tepr through subjugation and intimidation; Commands loyalty through fear and charisma; intimidates subordinates like Ahal; Enemy to Puripal and major political pressure on the Crown Prince's strategy.

General Ahal

(86)

Physical

: Not described in detail.

Role

: Yohazatz general; Outraged upon finding abandoned Tepr camp; demands explanation and blames enemy cowardice; reprimanded by Noga for his lack of understanding; Accompanies Noga to the burned forests; panics about food shortages; highlights logistical vulnerability of Yohazatz army; rebuked again by Noga for lacking vision.

Relationships

: Subordinate to Noga.

Bora

(87)

Physical

: Eldest wife of Noga; sharp-tongued, sharp-witted.

Role

: Sews banners, critiques camp life, often sarcastic; mediates behavior of the other wives; mocks and spars with Sarangerel; Holds a commanding domestic presence in Noga's tent; provides contrast to his political and military persona.

Relationships

: Wife of Noga; advises and chastises Sarangerel and Altantsetseg; shares dry banter with Noga; appears emotionally distant but perceptive.

Sarangerel

(87)

Physical

: Round-cheeked; perpetually eating.

Role

: Second wife of Noga; brings comic relief with stories of being admired by Tepr women; indulges in food and jewelry; contributes humor and lightness in domestic scenes; occasionally naive

.

Relationships

: Wife of Noga; friends and bickers with Bora; close to Altantsetseg; adds levity to Noga's court.

Altantsetseg

(87)

Physical

: Youngest wife of Noga; barely nineteen; wide-eyed like a fawn

.

Role

: Devoted and gentle; sings for Noga; buffs his sword; brings him a charm braid for luck; naive but sincere; Believes in Tepr folk tales; asks about tiger myths and the afterlife; Shows reverence for Noga but hints at personal curiosity and deeper thought.

Relationships

: Wife of Noga; treated protectively by Bora and Sarangerel; shares quiet affection with Noga.

Dukar's Honeymoon

Dukar

(1)

Physical

:

Fiery amber eyes, single long braid; Wears refurbished lamellar armor forged to resemble General Bazhin's; darkens complexion with ash paste; bears bruises from sparring.

Role

:

Jabliu heir; drafted into Moukopl army; became General Bazhin's squire/translator; jailed for defiance; saved Puripal; accepted role as Puripal's personal bodyguard/tactical advisor; leaves for Pezijil with Ta and Puripal; trains to impersonate General Bazhin, practicing military posture, scowling, gait, and intimidation; struggles to embody authority but gradually improves; uses humor and sarcasm to deflect embarrassment; shows adaptability and determination despite discomfort; Assumes full impersonation of Bazhin within Pezijil; uses exaggerated authority, clumsy military gestures, and fabricated war stories to deceive guards and former soldiers; forced into improvisation during multiple tense encounters; Fails to convince Bazhin's daughter and wife, sparking a physical altercation that culminates in heartbreak and exposure; Learns from San Lian that he may actually be Bazhin's brother, unknowingly the son of Tun Zol Gujel; Confronts identity crisis and expresses anguish at possibly sharing blood with the man who tormented him; Plans to approach Bazhin's wife for help despite emotional stakes; Confronts Kai Lang a second time, receives reluctant audience; delivers Bazhin's final message and expresses desire to support her and Jinhuang as family; shows humility, emotional vulnerability, and readiness to assume protective role as 'uncle' figure; accepts emotional and social responsibility despite awkwardness; affirms his legitimacy and sincerity with composure; grows into the role of family steward with quiet resolve; meets Jinhuang; Reunites with Naci in the marketplace after chance encounter, both parties stunned; affirms familial connection to Jinhuang publicly despite her resistance; attempts to control chaotic group dynamic and protect Jinhuang from further humiliation; brings group to San Lian's bar and negotiates with its keeper; confronts a drunken San Lian and tries to restore order; Trained by San Lian in impersonating Bazhin's speech, posture, and martial presence; spars with Jinhuang repeatedly as part of preparation; gradually refines his imitation through repeated failure and humor; exhibits leadership during infiltration of imperial gates, convincingly impersonating Bazhin; wins entry to imperial city with a mix of intimidation and pageantry; stands before the Crown Prince and reveals his true identity, leveraging their past connection; presents Puripal's proposal.

Relationships

:

Son of Tseren/Gani; brother of Naci; brother to Bazhin; protector of Arban; lover to Puripal; protective of Ta; conflicted about Naci; Respected by the Crown Prince, who expresses gratitude for saving his life; confides in San Lian and receives confirmation of shared lineage; tentatively enters surrogate family role with Jinhuang and Kai Lang; shields Jinhuang from emotional embarrassment.

Tseren

(

Tun Zol Gujel )

(2)

Physical

: Aged, amber eyes dimmed by defeat, formerly authoritative posture now broken; In younger years: formidable Moukopl general with ornate armor, skilled in battle but visibly weary and disillusioned.

Role

: Jabliu chieftain; accepted Horohan; revealed Naci's Moukopl/Bugr literacy; reveals to Naci that he is originally from Moukopl; provides her the name of a trusted ally (San Lian) and his own former name (Tun Zol Gujel) for safety; In the past: saves and is saved by San Lian during a brutal battle at a frontier fortress; Welcomes him into his home in Pezijil afterward, establishing a deep bond; Shares his disillusionment with imperial violence and his Bugr ancestry; Eventually deserts the Moukopl Empire with his infant son Tukol (Dukar), leaving behind Khaizei and Bazhin; His disappearance devastates his family and triggers Khaizei's eventual suicide; seen by San Lian years later living peacefully in the steppes with a new family.

Relationships

: Husband of Gani; father of Naci/Dukar; father of Bazhin; Husband of Khaizei (Pezijil); father of Bazhin and Tukol (Dukar); former mentor and friend to San Lian.

Bazhin

(22)

Physical

: Strong jawline, high cheekbones, long single braid, scars on face, imposing physique.

Role

: Cruel Moukopl general; despised Tepr conscripts; made Dukar his squire; In the past: is initially trained by San Lian; eager, determined, and affectionate; Raised in Pezijil by San Lian after Gujel's disappearance and Khaizei's suicide; Enters the army at seventeen and rises quickly in the ranks, eventually becoming a general; Leads multiple campaigns and achieves battlefield renown; marries Kai Lang and becomes a father to Jinhuang.

Relationships

: Commander of Moukopl forces; brother of Tukol (Dukar); Son of Tun Zol Gujel and Khaizei; father of Jinhuang; raised by San Lian after Gujel's disappearance.

Puripal

(22)

Physical

:

Dark skin, sun-weathered, matted hair.

Role

:

Fourth prince of Yohazatz; Moukopl prisoner; shot by Ta; saved by Dukar; returned to Qixi-Lo; offered Dukar a role as bodyguard/advisor; travels to Pezijil with Dukar and Ta; coaches Dukar to impersonate Bazhin with humor and exacting instruction; plays both comic and supportive roles in preparation; bonds with Dukar through shared struggle and sarcasm; Supports Dukar during infiltration of Pezijil; improvises excuses and covers during tense exchanges with guards and locals; receives verbal and physical abuse from Bazhin's daughter during confrontation; Later offers warmth and levity to ease Dukar's emotional turmoil after his identity crisis; Monitors Dukar from a rooftop as he searches for San Lian; spots Bazhin's wife and proposes using her to track down San Lian; Continues to provide tactical advice and emotional grounding; doesn't intervene when Dukar is mobbed by civilians; serves as hidden backup rather than immediate rescuer; Rejoins Dukar and Jinhuang in the city; Confronted by Naci in the marketplace; assists with money collection in San Lian's bar; Revealed to be a Yohazatz prince after Lanau notices his ring; maintains suave composure even when slammed and threatened by Naci; nicked by Fol's blade and loses a lock of hair; shows respect for Naci despite hostility; Oversees Dukar's impersonation training with wit and sharp critique; bribes a blacksmith to refit armor; provides forged scroll for palace infiltration; executes plan to impersonate General Bazhin, helping Dukar gain access to the imperial city and court; Confronts the Crown Prince with a bold political offer—his loyalty and claim to the Yohazatz throne in exchange for alliance and support against Noga; Shows control, intelligence, and mastery of court maneuvering.

Relationships

:

Son of Qaloron Khan; brother to Aralën, Noga and Nemeh; half-brother to Ta; lover of Dukar; jealous rival to Ta for Dukar's affection; begins forming rapport with the rest of Naci's group; Earns begrudging reprieve from Naci; Plays diplomatic lead in the final approach to the Crown Prince; presents critical information about Noga's invasion and stakes his claim to the Yohazatz throne.

Ta

(25)

Physical

:

Young Yohazatz warrior, birthmark on face.

Role

:

Bastard son of Qaloron Khan; shot Puripal; arrested and beaten by order of Nemeh; reveals desire to kill the royal family and reshape society; freed by Dukar; travelled to Pezijil with Dukar and Puripal; participates in Dukar's impersonation training; applies faux scar with berry paste; shows irreverence, loyalty, and growing camaraderie with Dukar and Puripal; Assists Dukar in navigating city checkpoints with exaggerated dramatics and performance; plays role of sick soldier to deflect suspicion; Gets physically attacked by Bazhin's daughter during confrontation; later reappears jokingly to cheer up Dukar; Roams backstreets of Pezijil alone; steals food; follows a pickpocket gang to their hideout; observes their leader and discovers Jinhuang confronting them; hides and observes their duel; attempts to de-escalate but is mocked and threatened; later follows Jinhuang again and inserts himself into her company; helps her de-escalate confrontation with local bullies by pretending to be her brother; earns reluctant acceptance and is allowed to tag along; Accompanies Jinhuang through the city; jokes constantly, attempts to smooth over tension with Dukar and Puripal; shows curiosity and chaotic energy; becomes de facto member of the "Jinhuang party;" Surprised by market encounter with Naci's group; defers to Dukar's authority when things escalate; Brutally attacked by Fol during the marketplace standoff; fights back with makeshift club; suffers facial injury and tooth loss; quips through pain; earns praise and concern from Jinhuang and others; Participates in Dukar's impersonation training with mocking encouragement; assists with disguise effort by donning footman garb; accompanies group into imperial gates and palace.

Relationships

:

Half-brother to Puripal; adversary to Nemeh and royal house; tension with Puripal; affection toward Dukar; Mocked and physically assaulted by Bazhin's daughter; Forms a chaotic but budding rapport with Jinhuang; shows toughness and loyalty to Dukar and Jinhuang.

San Lian

(31)

Physical

:

Old drunk man.

Role

:

Old acquaintance of Bazhin and Kai Lang; cared for Jinhuang and her mother after Bazhin's disappearance; As a young officer, saves General Tun Zol Gujel in a siege; Forms a strong friendship with him and is welcomed into his household; Becomes a sword instructor to Bazhin and a frequent guest in the family home; After Gujel's desertion, becomes the emotional anchor for the abandoned family; Adopts Gujel's orphaned son Bazhin after Khaizei's suicide; Trains the boy to be a disciplined soldier and supports him through rise in rank; Eventually seeks out Gujel in the steppes but chooses not to disrupt his new life; Remains in Pezijil as Jinhuang's protector and surrogate grandfather; Interrogated and nearly tortured by the Western Bureau for knowledge of Gujel's escape; gives Dukar information on his parentage, suggesting he is Bazhin's long lost brother; Trains Dukar to impersonate Bazhin, teaches him posture, voice, and command presence; remains stern and cynical, but his guidance shapes Dukar's transformation.

Relationships

:

Trusted by Kai Lang; Mentor to Bazhin and Jinhuang; close friend of Gujel; guardian to Bazhin's family after their fall; viewed as grandfather figure by Jinhuang; Interacts with Naci, recognizing her resemblance to Gujel; Assists Dukar in passing as Bazhin.

Jinhuang

(65)

Physical

:

Young girl; fierce and physically aggressive; expressive eyes.

Role

:

Recognizes Dukar as a fraud when he poses as Bazhin; confronts him publicly; attacks him and his companions with surprising strength and fury; breaks down in grief; Resurfaces in Pezijil's slums; fights to stop a local pickpocket gang; shows skill in combat and strong sense of justice despite grief-fueled recklessness; defeats Meicao; reveals reputation among locals for fierce behavior and heritage as Bazhin's daughter; clashes with academy students who mock her status and her father's memory; narrowly avoids further punishment with Ta's comedic intervention; reluctantly allows Ta to accompany her after recognizing his absurd resilience; Leads Dukar and Ta across Pezijil in search of San Lian; confronts Dukar again at her courtyard; furiously rejects his attempts to establish kinship; Eventually agrees to help him find San Lian, but makes it clear she does not trust him; Constantly clashes with group dynamics; volatile and guarded; Stunned by sudden collision with Naci's group in the market; Gets lifted and teased by Naci during public spectacle; handles drunken San Lian's confrontation with practiced exhaustion; recognized as "Little Flower" by barkeeper; resists being infantilized; Attacks Dukar during family confrontation, engaging him in a full courtyard brawl; demonstrates combat skill learned from Bazhin; forced to apologize after Dukar overpowers her in a controlled chokehold; gradually begins accepting Dukar's authority as uncle, though remains resistant; helps train Dukar for infiltration by participating in mock combat; shows signs of emotional thaw, eventually requesting to learn one of Dukar's fighting moves; Her hostility softens subtly, indicating a growing if reluctant trust.

Relationships

:

Daughter of Bazhin and his wife; lashes out at Dukar believing he is mocking or impersonating her father; Begins a reluctant alliance with Ta;

Physical

ly confronts and challenges Dukar repeatedly; shows emotional conflict over family loyalty and loss; begins bonding.

Kai Lang

(65)

Physical

:

Woman with silver-streaked hair coiled in a knot; sharp features; carries a fan; moves with reserved elegance and force.

Role

:

Widow of Bazhin; matriarch of the Tun Zol household; commands respect and authority; cold and cutting in demeanor; Receives Dukar and his companions at the family mansion; berates Jinhuang for her unruliness and San Lian for his drunkenness; refuses to be addressed formally by Dukar, insists on familial titles; Participates in tea ceremony where she establishes Dukar's role as Jinhuang's uncle; rebukes Jinhuang's resistance; Intervenes when Jinhuang and Dukar's courtyard fight escalates too far; Grants permission for Dukar and company to proceed with their political impersonation scheme, provided she and Jinhuang are left out of it.

Relationships

:

Wife of Bazhin; mother of Jinhuang; sister-in-law to Dukar; long-time acquaintance of San Lian; Protective of her household's dignity; reluctantly accepts Dukar into family structure; skeptical of politics but willing to stand aside.

Khaizei

(82)

Physical

: Woman with long dark hair often pinned up with silver ornaments; elegant, dignified, and poised.

Role

: Welcomes San Lian into her home after he saves Gujel; becomes a gracious host; Shows quiet strength and tenderness toward her family; After Gujel's sudden disappearance with their infant son, spirals into despair; Eventually hangs herself in her chambers, overwhelmed by grief.

Relationships

: Wife of Tun Zol Gujel; mother of Bazhin and Tukol; dies by suicide after Gujel's abandonment.

Linh's Rebellion

Linh

(27)

Physical

: Young Siza champion, fiery red hair, vibrant blue eyes, lithe frame, patchwork cloak; Later severely burned; left arm severed; body scarred and blistered; Wears bandages soaked in medicinal salve; suffers from chronic pain, phantom limb syndrome, and lingering psychological trauma; appears emaciated and hollowed from starvation.

Role

: Siza champion and rebel leader; Raised in the estate of Aras under protection; shares deep bond with Mihin; entertains and protects her; learns hunting, ethics, and philosophy from Aras; secretly trained in magic and divine prophecy by Qhuag; forms early friendship with Gankou; receives mystical weapon disguised as a wand, later revealed to be a musket; unintentionally kills Qhuag in a tragic accident, leading to emotional trauma and loss of innocence; vows to protect Mihin at all costs and begins descent into mistrust and paranoia; vows to liberate his people; kills Doxi with a musket; leads assault on Moukopl fortress; converts soldiers with execution rituals; sends a message to the emperor; orchestrates total capture of An'alm; deeply bonded with Gankou; returns to Mihin with a hare and noodles; cares tenderly for his sister; expresses idealism about liberating the world from authoritarian rule; engages in joyful mischief during the celebration in An'alm; climbs a watchtower with Gankou and reflects on their political goals; declares intent to ignite global rebellion through inspiration; proposes psychological warfare tactic of disguising city defenses to deceive Moukopl attackers; insists on tactical misdirection and exploiting fear rather than brute strength; displays sharp tactical thinking and leadership under pressure; Disappears during final siege assault; reemerges after Ghuba's victory with dramatic declaration of divine heritage; claims to be son of Nahaloma and spiritual leader of the Siza; calls for religious purification; begins alienating some allies while drawing cult-like reverence from others; Implements extreme survival tactics during siege, including sanctioned cannibalism; loses his arm during failed raft attack; nearly dies in fire caused by spilled gunpowder; saved by Hzal; later discovered near death by Li Song, who chooses to carry him to safety, believing him to be the White Mother's child; Rises again in a state of psychological ruin and messianic delusion; adopts dual spiritual identity as heir to both Nahaloma and the White Mother; survives suicide attempts; proclaims a hybrid theology combining Siza and White Mother myths; burns Yohazatz prisoners in symbolic ritual to assert divine rule; publicly declares formation of Hluay Dynasty and new world order.

Relationships

: Champion of the Siza people; killer of Doxi; close childhood friend of Gankou; older brother and caretaker of Mihin; revered and feared by Gankou and Siza rebels; Secret son of Governor Aras; mentored by Qhuag; forms early brotherhood with Gankou but betrays him; shaped by trauma of Qhuag's death; Feared and worshipped by some Siza for divine role; seen by Li Song as a divine figure; Despised by Ghuba as a traitor; revered as divine by White Mother faithful; publicly crowned as founding god-king of Hluay Dynasty by Moukopl and converted followers.

Ghuba (27)

Physical

: Middle-aged Yohazatz warrior, broad shoulders, chiseled physique, battle-scarred; Face disfigured; missing left ear; mouth bloodied before execution.

Role

: Former Yohazatz chieftain; Leads Yohazatz cavalry during Moukopl siege; ambushes Moukopl supply lines; criticizes Linh's reliability and leadership; takes control of rebel strategy, proposing to divide and strike Moukopl forces guarding each city gate; expresses doubt over Linh's commitment; fights in sandstorm ambush; rescues pinned comrade in battle; grows uneasy at Siza's delayed support; Leads Yohazatz warriors in desperate breakout attempt from An'alm's gates; refuses to abandon injured Gankou; carries son through river; survives Moukopl ambush; watches Gankou die in his arms; Captured and paraded as enemy prisoner by Li Song's forces; eyes sewn shut; chooses to die with pride; curses Linh as a traitor; dies burning.

Relationships

: Father of Gankou; ally to Linh and Siza rebels; Critical of Linh; tensions with son over Linh's reliability; leads Yohazatz forces independently when trust in Siza wavers; Final opponent of Linh's divine rise.

Gankou (27)

Physical

: Youthful, vibrant; Yohazatz warrior attire mixed with local fashion.

Role

: Son of Ghuba; rebellious youth; energetic, charismatic; met Linh during their youth in An'alm; formed an early bond through mischief, teasing, and shared antics; helped Linh experiment with a musket disguised as a magical wand; introduced Linh to the streets, teaching him sleight of hand and survival through trickery and camaraderie; remains loyal to Linh's leadership; Frantically searches for Ghuba and Linh during and after the siege; confronts his father over Linh's disappearance; defends Linh's honor before rebel council; supports Linh's god-claim despite rising instability; Fights alongside Ghuba in final breakout; is critically wounded by Moukopl soldier; dies from blood loss while being carried by Ghuba during retreat.

Relationships

: Son of Ghuba; best friend and revolutionary partner to Linh; fond of Mihin; serves as Linh's co-conspirator and morale booster; Challenges Ghuba over Linh's worth; increasingly caught between father and friend; His death profoundly impacts both Ghuba and Linh, catalyzing darker shifts in Linh's descent.

Mihin (44)

Physical

: Young woman with red hair; blind, marred by spreading dark spots on skin and neck.

Role

: Linh's ill sister; lives in quiet home in An'alm; blind due to illness but spiritually strong; Raised under Aras's protection in An'alm estate; close with Linh since childhood; reveals calm resilience and joy despite blindness; her condition is told to be a divine sacrifice—payment for Linh's supposed godhood; trained in mysticism and healing by Qhuag; attempts to save Qhuag after the misfired shot, but fails; experiences a psychic breakdown and profound grief; Provides emotional clarity to Linh before battle; anchors his mental stability; her well-being deeply motivates Linh's actions; Tends to Linh's wounds after he is maimed; begs him to stop forcing survival at the cost of humanity; expresses deep regret and grief for what their lives became; dies in accidental explosion caused by Linh's powder pouch during flood evacuation; Her memory haunts Linh in visions, hallucinations, and spiritual invocations; becomes symbolic martyr whose death fuels Linh's god complex and radical vision.

Relationships

: Younger sister of Linh; admired by Gankou; briefly watched over by Ghuba; Daughter of Aras; spiritually linked to Linh's divine identity; mentored by Qhuag; emotionally shattered by Qhuag's death; Her death becomes a turning point for Linh.

Bashi (48)

Physical

: Older priest, flowing robes.

Role

: Spiritual mentor to Li Song; guides him through philosophical crises and growing disillusionment with dynastic oppression; Recognizes Linh as divine incarnation of White Mother and Hei Fu; publicly submits to his authority, reinforcing spiritual legitimacy of Linh's rule.

Relationships

: Mentor to Li Song; representative of White Mother temple; Becomes ceremonial supporter of Linh's divine kingship.

Li Song (48)

Physical

: Broad-shouldered, muscular, dark hair tied back, strong jawline, piercing eyes; Later appears gaunt and spiritually hollow; wears undyed hemp robes; prayer beads carved from onyx in the shape of teardrops.

Role

: Retired general turned White Mother devotee; seeks spiritual refuge from imperial corruption; Leads long, grinding siege on An'alm; reflects on cost of conquest and cruelty of starvation tactics; resists Jin Na's calls for escalated force; delivers impassioned speech on compassion, unity, and restraint to weary troops; prays aloud to White Mother, invoking spiritual plea for mercy amid destruction; Shows signs of inner spiritual fracture but maintains outward calm; Orders construction of dike to flood An'alm; ultimately authorizes city-wide destruction; grows spiritually fractured as carnage intensifies; personally discovers Linh amid ruin and rescues him; begins to view Linh as divine figure from prophecy; vows to stop bloodshed, believing he has found the White Mother's child; Assumes priest-like role as Linh's spiritual servant and public facilitator; proclaims Linh's divinity to crowds; orchestrates public executions for theological spectacle; sacrifices personal dignity to maintain illusion of prophecy; manipulates crowd fervor to enshrine Linh's reign.

Relationships

: Retired general; disciple of Bashi; subordinate (reluctantly) to imperial chain of command; commands Jin Na; deeply loyal to the White Mother; Becomes protector of Linh after discovering his wounded body; regarded with awe and fear by soldiers; Becomes ceremonial vassal to Linh; treats him as living prophecy.

Jin Na (48)

Physical

: Stern-faced, young Moukopl officer.

Role

: Delivers imperial decree to Li Song to lead Bos campaign; enforces duty with subtle respect for Li Song's spirituality; serves as Li Song's aide in the Bos campaign; Commands the mobile corps during An'alm siege; manages front lines and supply logistics; intercepts raids and orders battlefield responses; increasingly strained by supply failures and moral ambiguity; urges tactical innovation, pushing for covert operations; coordinates morning gate assaults and scouts; clashes with Ghuba's cavalry in surprise ambush; narrowly survives storm battle; Leads final naval assault on Siza raft fleet; kills Hzal in single combat during final courtyard execution; promoted officially by Li Song;

Relationships

: Subordinate of Moukopl Empire; lieutenant to Li Song; Respected but occasionally overruled by Li Song; battlefield adversary to Ghuba; Earns soldiers' respect and command after slaying Hzal; viewed with admiration and fear.

Aras

(73)

Physical

: Tall, authoritative man; expressive, kind eyes; strong build; often wears ceremonial robes.

Role

: Governor of An'alm, known to the Siza as Sana Fur (Great Chief); secretly raises Linh and Mihin as his own; mentors Linh in hunting, leadership, and ethics; protects Siza cultural traditions while navigating imperial politics; hosts Siza chieftains and cultivates unity; ultimately arrested by Moukopl forces for conspiracy and fraud; withstands brutal interrogation and refuses to expose his children; executed after a politically motivated trial.

Relationships

: father of Linh and Mihin; trusted ally of Qhuag; respected by Chieftain Mara and other Siza leaders; enemy of Doxi.

Qhuag

(73)

Physical

: Elderly woman with sharp eyes; wears indigo robes; mysterious, graceful presence.

Role

: Renowned witch and seer among the Siza; revered for her wisdom and feared for her visions; mentors Mihin in spiritual and magical practices; identifies Linh as the son of Nahaloma, declaring his destiny as divine; reveals Mihin's blindness to be a god-imposed sacrifice; becomes Linh's guardian after Aras's death; trains Linh in magical arts, providing him a mystic weapon disguised as a wand; tragically shot and killed in a misfire while attempting to confiscate the musket from a sleeping Linh;

Relationships

: Spiritual mentor to Mihin and Linh; respected by Aras; antagonist to imperial intrusion; voice of ancient Siza beliefs and prophecy.

Mara

(73)

Physical

: Respected Siza chieftain; stern but admired; confident in battle and politics.

Role

: Leads Siza archers under Aras's guidance; speaks at rebel councils; commits suicide in protest after Aras's arrest and in despair for the Siza cause; destroys compromising records before her death.

Relationships

: Loyal follower of Aras.

Old Fe

(73)

Physical

: Not described in detail; likely elderly, gruff demeanor.

Role

: Local elder or stablemaster in An'alm; reluctant to lend his horse to Linh but allows extended rides; plays small but memorable role in Linh's early adventures.

Relationships

: Minor mentor figure to young Linh and friend to Gankou.

Hzal

(75)

Physical

: Lean Siza chieftain; weathered appearance; weary but imposing.

Role

: Siza chieftain; commands starving warriors atop An'alm's walls during final siege; horrified by flood tactics and cannibalism; supports Linh's desperate plan to rally final assault; tries to rescue civilians; attempts to save Linh after arm is lost; carries him through flooded streets to Mihin; fights to defend last stronghold; challenges Li Song's command with final duel; dies after valiant battle against Jin Na.

Relationships

: Ally of Linh in last stand; leader of dying Siza garrison; final battlefield adversary of Jin Na.

Seop Joins the Revolution

Goeghon

(26)

Physical

: Seop merchant.

Role

: Merchant from Seop; sells foreign alcohol to Orogol; approached by Naci seeking knowledge of gunpowder and fire-resistant walls; Returns to Seop with satchels full of saltpeter hidden in fox fur; navigates the chaos of Bo'anen's harbor and slums; reconnects with Sen and Saya; reveals Naci's offer and the potential revolution against the Moon District elite; begins convincing Saya to flee the city and join the Tepr rebellion; Displays growing ideological transformation, driven by exposure to northern ambition and disgust with Seop's corruption; Negotiates passage through the burning port of Bo'anen; barters with a shipmaster using saltpeter and threats; asserts himself with charisma and intimidation; secures escape for his group by bluff and violence.

Relationships

: Merchant interacting with Orogol tribesmen and Naci; brother of Sen and Saya; Developing alliance with Naci; convinces Sen and Saya to abandon Seop and join her cause.

Sen

(30)

Physical

: Eccentric inventor; singed curly hair, soot-smeared glasses, indigo robes stained/burnt.

Role

: Goeghon's sister; brilliant but reckless inventor in Seop; Suspended upside-down in her hut when Goeghon arrives; discusses gunpowder properties and ancient treatises with excitement; demonstrates chaotic inventiveness; expresses glee at the potential to build explosive devices for the rebellion;

Relationships

: Sister of Goeghon; sister of Saya; Excited by Naci's request via Goeghon; eager to follow Goeghon into exile for the sake of invention and revolution; Though dismissed as eccentric, shows intense loyalty to her siblings and revolutionary fervor.

Saya

(30)

Physical

: Practical, weary; calloused hands (fishing/grinding implied), sun-warm bronze skin.

Role

: Sen's sister; responsible for family/children in Seop slum; Confronts Goeghon upon his return; opposes his plan to join the rebellion; fears the loss of what little stability remains; reacts sharply to the saltpeter and Goeghon's vision of revolution; eventually shows signs of wavering resolve as she sees the city descending into riot and flame; shows blend of caution and willingness to act when needed.

Relationships

: Sister of Sen; sister of Goeghon; implied caregiver to neighborhood children; Acts as both conscience and caution to Goeghon's radicalization; slowly drawn into his cause as chaos encroaches.

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