The pilot of a colony ship traveling from Earth to find and colonize a new world, forming the novel’s parallel narrative.

Rigg’s childhood friend, who insists on accompanying him and possesses an unusual ability involving people’s perception of time.

Rigg’s sister, whom his father instructs him to find in the ancient city of Aressa Sessamo after his death.

Rigg’s secretive father and mentor, who educates him extensively and alone knows about his strange talent before dying at the story’s outset.

A former soldier whom Rigg and Umbo meet in a river town; he agrees to help them travel and sell a jewel.

An authority in the People’s Republic who arrests Rigg, Umbo, and Loaf when the travelers reach the city called O.

An innkeeper entrusted with valuable jewels and money that Rigg’s father intends Rigg to collect for his journey.