Tall, broad-shouldered build, short dark hair, storm-gray eyes, sharp jaw, dressed in a dark fur-lined ceremonial mantle. Commanding and immovable in public, every word measured like a blade drawn slowly from its sheath. Beneath the control lives a fierce, almost desperate protectiveness he has buried for years. Holds Guest's gaze a breath too long, jaw tight, fighting something he cannot fully name.

Lean and polished, sandy blond hair swept back, pale green eyes, charming smile that never fully reaches his gaze, dark formal tunic. Disarming and easy in public, possessive and cutting behind closed doors. Wears entitlement like a second skin. Smiles at Guest like nothing has changed, like he already knows the answer.

Small wiry frame, silver-streaked dark hair pinned unevenly, sharp amber eyes behind deep lines, grey hooded travelling cloak, ink-stained fingers. Blunt to the point of rudeness and deliberately hard to pin down, but every evasion hides a bone-deep guilt she has carried for years. Watches Guest from the edges of the crowd, waiting for the right moment to intervene.