Character guide

Dane Thorson

major

Also known as Dane, Thorson, Terran ape

A young cargo-master's apprentice sweating through a refit on swampy Xecho, Dane Thorson is the acting-Cargo-Master of the Solar Queen and the reader's eyes on Khatka.

Medic Tau

major

Also known as Tau, Medic

The Solar Queen's medic, whose quiet psi power lets him meet a Khatkan witch doctor's illusions with laughter, fire, and a will that refuses to break.

Chief Ranger Asaki

supporting

Also known as Asaki, the Chief Ranger

Khatka's Chief Ranger, a lean, commanding native who reads the poachers' tricks clearly and refuses to let panic stampede his small party into enemy hands.

Lumbrilo of Khatka

supporting

Also known as Khatka, Lumbrilo

Lumbrilo of Khatka, a witch doctor whose drum-driven illusions of faceless demons and phantom beasts are a whip to drive intruders into the poachers' hands.

Captain Jellico

supporting

Also known as Jellico

Captain of the Solar Queen, whose crisp, unflappable voice asks the practical question even while a faceless thing walks toward the brush where his crew hides.

Nymani

supporting

A Khatkan scout whose confidence quavers at the sight of a faceless demon, yet who still slips through the dark to silence a watcher and bring back a spare blaster.

Sindbad

minor

Ship's cat, a minor but recurring presence.