An assigned-female-at-birth peasant who assumes her deceased brother's identity to survive and claim his destined greatness. She begins as a hungry novice at Wuhuang Monastery before leaving to join the Red Turban rebellion. Highly adaptable and fiercely driven to avoid an empty fate, she learns to manipulate gender roles and political situations to her advantage. She also possesses the rare ability to see ghosts.

The educated and empathetic daughter of a deceased Semu general. Though sidelined by the patriarchal Red Turban leadership, she is highly observant of their political machinations. She struggles against the limitations placed on her as a woman but acts as a compassionate force within the brutal rebellion.

A ruthless, power-hungry Nanren politician within the Red Turban rebellion. He orchestrates complex schemes to eliminate rivals and consolidate power, frequently using other rebel leaders as pawns in his deadly political games. He relies heavily on manipulating the paranoia of his superiors.

A highly competent Nanren general in the Mongol army who survived castration and enslavement after his family's rebellion. Deeply insecure about his masculinity, he distances himself from his heritage and obsesses over military prowess to prove his worth. He harbors intense desires for revenge against the men who destroyed his family.

The favored son of Chaghan-Temur and the epitome of the ideal Mongol warrior. He excels in battle but remains entirely unprepared for administrative duties. While generous and protective of those he cares about, his immense privilege makes him dangerously oblivious to the trauma and struggles of his closest companions.

Esen's adopted brother, born to a Mongol mother and Nanren father. Highly educated and skilled in administration, he embraces his Nanren heritage in dress and scholarly pursuits, making him an outcast among traditional Mongol warriors. He uses an acerbic tongue as a defense mechanism against constant humiliation.

A former Buddhist monk who reunites with Zhu in the secular world, transitioning from bandit leader to Red Turban soldier. He serves as a fiercely loyal brother figure to Zhu and acts as a highly capable battlefield commander.

Known as "Little Guo," he is the ambitious but foolish son of a prominent minister. Arrogant and eager for glory, he completely lacks the strategic foresight necessary for rebellion politics, making him easily manipulated.

A powerful political leader in the Red Turban rebellion and father to Guo Tianxu. He continually jockeys for influence against his rivals, seeking to secure his family's position.

The paranoid figurehead leader of the Red Turban rebels. He oversees the various factions but relies heavily on the advice of his ministers, leaving him vulnerable to their constant manipulations.

A child figurehead for the Red Turban rebellion who holds the literal Mandate of Heaven. He possesses an otherworldly presence, speaks with adult wisdom, and shares Zhu's ability to see ghosts.

The Mongol Prince of Henan and father to Esen. He is a harsh, traditional warlord who values martial strength above all else and harbors intense prejudice against non-Mongols.

Ouyang's pragmatic second in command. A fellow Nanren, he attempts to bond with Ouyang over their shared heritage.

A young, privileged Mongol noble who looks down on those of Nanren descent. He uses his status to belittle and mock those who do not fit traditional Mongol warrior ideals.

A former thief of Hui descent who finds his calling as a warrior. He serves as a loyal guide and capable soldier for Zhu's forces.

The Red Turban engineer who develops weaponry and artillery. He is highly observant but harbors chauvinistic attitudes toward female authority.

The Nanren widow of the former governor of Lu. Pregnant and desperate to maintain her standing, she enters into a dangerous bargain with the rebels.

A newly appointed governor who evicts the previous governor's widow, making enemies in the process.

A skilled general from the powerful Zhang merchant family who possesses his own Mandate of Heaven.

The true mastermind behind the Zhang merchant family's vast empire. Highly perceptive, she prefers to exert her massive influence from the shadows.

A powerful merchant and husband to Madam Zhang. While he holds a leadership title, his wife handles the true machinations of their empire.

A strict, traditional monk in charge of educating novices. He maintains political disagreements with the monastery's leadership and takes a strong disliking to Zhu.

The leader of Wuhuang Monastery. He is perceptive enough to recognize Zhu's intellect and resourcefulness, eventually elevating her status.

An ostentatious and condescending Mongol governor who angers those around him with his arrogance.