Alina is a former cartographer who recently discovered her unique Grisha powers as the Sun Summoner. She wears Morozova's collar, an ancient magical amplifier fused into her skin that intensely magnifies her abilities. Hunted by powerful forces, she struggles to balance her terrifying new magic with her desire for a normal life. She takes command of the Second Army and quickly learns the harsh realities of military leadership.

Mal is a remarkably skilled tracker and soldier in the First Army who completely lacks Grisha magic. He transitions into the role of captain for Alina's personal guard, dedicating himself to her protection. The shifting power dynamics between Grisha and ordinary humans leave him feeling deeply inadequate in Alina's new circle. To cope with his insecurities, he frequently turns to heavy drinking and physical brawls.

The Darkling is an ancient, overwhelmingly powerful Grisha known as the Shadow Summoner. He possesses the unique ability to manipulate darkness and shape shadow creatures out of nothingness. Driven by a ruthless desire to expand the monstrous Fold and rule the country, he stops at nothing to bend others to his will. He views ordinary humans as inferior and seeks to crush any resistance to his absolute authority.

Nikolai is the younger prince of the Ravkan royal family, known for his sharp intellect and innovative mind. He prefers practical problem-solving and inventing new technologies over engaging in idle courtly gossip. Recognizing his country's desperate state, he actively works to forge strategic military alliances. He possesses a keen understanding of public relations and political optics, which he uses to manipulate his family's adversaries.

Zoya is a remarkably talented Squaller capable of manipulating wind and air currents. She previously served as a fiercely loyal soldier to the Darkling until a ruthless attack on her family shattered her allegiance. She carries a haughty, superior attitude but remains dedicated to defending the kingdom from destruction.

David is a brilliant but socially awkward Fabrikator who specializes in crafting weapons and scientific instruments. He prefers the quiet of his laboratory over the chaos of military strategy sessions. He carries heavy guilt over the magical artifacts he previously created, fearing they cause more harm than good.

Tolya is an imposing, giant-like Shu mercenary with advanced Grisha abilities as a Heartrender. Despite his terrifying physical size, he is deeply religious and well-read, easily translating ancient liturgical texts. He provides essential physical protection to the growing religious movement forming within the military.

Tamar is a lethal Shu mercenary and Heartrender who moves with frightening speed and agility. She fights with a pair of axes and maintains a highly pragmatic approach to warfare and survival. She easily navigates the rough, masculine environment of military camps with sharp wit and undeniable martial skill.

The Apparat is the unsettling, strange-smelling head priest of the kingdom's dominant religion. He operates entirely in the shadows, manipulating the poorest citizens into forming a fanatical underground army. He uses religious scripture and ancient saintly lore to twist political situations to his advantage.

Genya is a highly skilled Tailor capable of altering hair, skin, and physical features. She initially aligned herself with corrupt forces, believing it was the best path to secure the country's future. Her past choices alienate her from her former friends, leaving her isolated and vulnerable in the escalating war.

Baghra is an ancient, blind Grisha instructor who resides near the Little Palace. She possesses an incredibly harsh teaching style and refuses to sugarcoat the terrifying realities of magical warfare. She views the pursuit of endless power as a fatal flaw and actively attempts to steer young Grisha away from corruption.

Ivan is a severe, uncompromising Heartrender who strictly enforces military discipline. He believes entirely in crushing the weak to ensure the survival of the strong.

Vasily is the Crown Prince and heir to the royal throne. He fancies himself a brilliant tactician but consistently makes foolish, highly dangerous political deals with foreign adversaries.

The reigning monarch is a frail, declining ruler who heavily relies on his advisors to maintain order. He struggles to project strength as his country splinters into varying factions.

The Queen is a status-obsessed monarch who heavily values her public appearance and royal dignity. She relies on the skills of Grisha Tailors to hide the physical tolls of stress and aging.

Fedyor is a capable Grisha who narrowly escapes aggressive witch hunts in the countryside. He seeks out new leadership after the previous command structure violently fractures.

Sergei is a highly vocal, argumentative Heartrender stationed at the military training grounds. He believes heavily in the supremacy of his specific magical faction and frequently attempts to undermine those he views as inexperienced.

Marie is an Etherealki Grisha who attempts to maintain normalcy as her home fractures under the pressure of incoming war. She relies on her friends for emotional support during the chaos.

Nadia is an Etherealki Grisha who finds herself suddenly thrust into life-or-death military combat. She relies heavily on the guidance of more experienced fighters to survive the escalating violence.

Ana Kuya is the highly disciplined former caretaker of the rural orphanage. She instilled a rigid sense of duty and fear of consequences into the children she raised.