A Returned god in Hallandren's Court of Gods. Irreverent and lazy, he claims not to believe in his own divinity, yet proves to be far more heroic than he pretends.

The youngest princess of Idris, sent to Hallandren in her sister's place to marry the God King. Naive but courageous, she adapts to her new world with surprising resilience.

A mysterious Awakener and one of the Five Scholars who originally studied BioChromatic Breath. Carries Nightblood, the sword he helped create.

The eldest princess of Idris who was raised her entire life to marry the God King. When Siri is sent instead, Vivenna travels to Hallandren to rescue her sister.

A mercenary and one of the Five Scholars. Charming and seemingly helpful, he manipulates Vivenna as part of a long revenge plot against Vasher.

The goddess of honesty in the Court of Gods. Politically cunning and flirtatious, she works to consolidate power among the Returned.

King of Idris and father to Vivenna and Siri. Sends Siri to Hallandren instead of Vivenna to protect his eldest daughter.

A member of Denth's mercenary crew. Tough and capable, she carries a Lifeless named Clod.

Lightsong's high priest and the person who knew him before he Returned. Patient and devoted, he serves as Lightsong's conscience.

The God King of Hallandren who holds thousands of Breaths. Kept isolated and silenced by the priests, he is gentle and curious despite his immense power.

A member of Denth's mercenary crew. Seemingly dim but dangerously violent, with a disturbing fondness for torturing small animals.

A high priest in the Court of Gods who serves as a political power broker. Controls access to the God King.

An elderly lighteyed man. Brief interlude POV in The Way of Kings.