Dramatis Personae

Aliana Moonsong	Born in Moonsong Winery, Aliana was a promising child. She spent little time with her peers down in Akia in her early years, sheltered with the priviledge of wealth. Her mother, Staren Moonsong, was the second eldest of the family and gave birth to Aliana in the dead of winter in the year 167 2C. There are rumors that the child was illegitamate, but the Moonsong family insists that Staren met Aliana's father while traveling abroad and wed, but he met with an accident before his daughter was born. For the first fourteen years of her life, she grew up tutored in the Moonsong household with all of the comforts of wealth. However, Staren had a falling out with her brother Craf, and the mother and daughter were asked to leave the home. The town is ripe with rumors as to why, but no one really knows outside of the Moonsongs and they don't air family business in public. The mother and daughter had a hard time adjusting to the riches to rags lifestyle, but they managed through the difficulties. Aliana followed her mother's footsteps when she was old enough and found a job waiting tables at Kiltin's Rest. She's well known and, for the most part, liked by the locals. They don't ask her about her family and she doesn't volunteer information about it. She's dated a few boys in town here or there, but hasn't settled with any. Most girls in the village her age are already married and have children of their own. Aliana has avoided such so far in her life. Her mother recently passed away. Aliana has recently become involved in Akia's political situation, joining Barton's group. After Barton's death, Aliana learned the fact that he was her father. Aliana has revealed that she has elvin blood in her veins. After being shot through the shoulder by a ballista, Aliana is fighting for life in the Moonsong Winery. By some miracle, she recovered from the wound quickly. Maria now thinks Aliana is an angel.
Thurton Gromst	Having run the stables for almost 9 years, Thurton is a pillar in the community. He's hard working and strong. Born in 161 to Tuwer and Bara Gromst in the village of Beanstown, Thurton moved away from home to Akia where he got a job working on the docks when he was only 14. For six years, he loaded wine and unloaded whatever came back, building a strong back, a good work ethic, and a small fortune. He lived like a spartan, saving his money, until he could afford to buy Red Wolf Stables, which he also worked part time at. Buying the stables, he made them his full time occupation and fixed up the run down place as best he could. Only so much business is to be had in Akia, however, and, while not a rich man, many of the locals consider him successful. He married a childhood sweetheart from Beanstown in 182, but she died three years later, leaving him without any children. He still runs Red Wolf and can often be found at night sharing jokes and a drink with Barton Jones, his good friend, at Kiltin's Rest. Thurton's house was recently burned down by these strange "men in black" who seem intent on stopping anyone and everyone who has had contact with Barton.
Creyton Grey	Nobody really knows too much about Creyton. He keeps mostly to himself, though he ventures into town for what he needs now and then. He keeps a horse at Red Wolf and will stop into Kiltin's when he needs a drink or Drake's if he needs supplies. The locals that have bothered to ask him have learned that he's from somewhere "back east" and in his thirties. He's the closest thing Akia has to a sheriff, though he takes on the role reluctantly, almost resentfully. That's only come about in the last few years and, even then, only a couple of times. It happened when some rangers were down from Fort Hancock on their way to the capital. One of them recognized "old Crey" and they exchanged stories about the northern border days. If any of the locals ask Creyton about his life as a Ranger, he generally blows them off, then goes back to his cabin in Verde Woods. It has been learned that Crey is a great shot with the bow but was given a dishonorable discharge from the Rangers. He won't go into why. Last scene aiding other Rangers trailing the Isoc forces up into the Westworld Mountains. He has since returned to the group, but sports a broken arm.
Sperin Tramil	Sperin was raised in the suburbs of Akia, if there is such a thing. He lived on a farm west of town. For most of his life, he was a popular boy. His parents complained to neighbors that he was lazy and mischevious. With age, however, came some responsibility and he helped his folks out on the farm. He left town for a couple of years and when his parents died 6 years ago, he returned took over the homestead. He was well liked in town and 4 years ago married Erista Hancock, much to the envy of every bachelor in town. She moved out with him to the farm and they settled down. Together, with the occasional hired help, they ran the farm, bringing in a hearty wheat crop each autumn to the mill. They seemed to be a quiet, happy couple, doing as they saw fit out on their land, but people began talking and noticing things. Erista was spending a lot of time not at home lately. Sperin was seen late at night at Kiltin's Rest. People whisper that their marriage is on the rocks. Sperin worries for his wife whom he hasn't seen in weeks. Recent events have given him a new dedication to the cause. It has been learned that his time away from Akia was spent in the military.
Anastasia Zakharov	This woman is something of an enigma in Akia. She showed up about 4 years ago with a caravan and just stayed ever since. They talk behind her back and say she's a gypsy or a witch, but the truth is that no one really knows for sure. She's from far away, but she doesn't talk about it much. She has a flat down near the docks. She works the occasional job around town or will tell the fortune of locals and travelers alike. She's independent minded in a day and age where women of such caliber are more of an embarrassment than something to be proud of. Occasionally, she'll come into Kiltin's Rest at night and drink with the men. At first, this wasn't something readily accepted, but she has earned their grudging respect. It took her a couple of years, but it seems she has finally managed to become pretty much accepted by the locals, even if still regarded with some suspicion. Such is the way of a small town. It is hard to explain, but it seems sometimes Anastasia is just right about things. Perhaps she is a witch after all. She has read cards to see the future.
Jude Cyrus Winslow	Jude is a corporal of the Imperial Guard, assigned to their special task unit under Captain Clifford. He was raised in the small town of Larson in southern Threforfar before joining the Imperial Guard, which he has been with since he was twenty years old. He has recently arrived in Akia with Senator Evan King. He seems to have a bond with people fighting for their freedom and right to vote. He was left in Akia by Captain Clifford to oversee the situation. He has been missing since working to end the "men in black" situation.
Darien Perr	Darien is an herbalist who grew up in the town of Bairn and currently lives near the dwarven city of Duranor. He is married to Shen. He has traveled to the Westworld Mountains to collect some rare herbs. After talks with the rangers, Darien was sent back to his home with plenty of foot itch powder.
Shen Perr	Shen grew up near Castle Moonshadow and relocated to Bairn during her teenage years. She is married to Darien and now resides near the dwarven city of Duranor. She has traveled to the Westworld Mountains to collect some rare herbs. Shen went home with her husband.
Kira Achado	Kira was born in Gofin but grew up in Flagaton Pol. She has recently traveled to Akia. She was named as the "babysitter" of the group by Mikel Seawind and now finds herself traveling with them.

Craf Moonsong	The Patriarch of the Moonsong family. Craf is in his late 40's. He lives up in the Winery, running the family business as his father did before him and his father did before him for generations. He takes the family name seriously and is well aware of the clout he has in town. For the most part, he is a benelovent dictator, but more than a few locals resent the economic power he has over the region. If the Empire still recognized the noble families, there is little doubt that Moonsong would hold the title of Lord over the region. Craf gave Barton's group and the Imperial Guard and Senator shelter, but he remained aloof. When last visited by Aliana, he was very concerned for the well-being of the winery and making it successful. He seems to have accepted the near dead Aliana back into his home to some degree. He has sworn to rebuild the winery to something great again.
Doris Treehorn	She is Akia's town busybody. She pokes around into people's business and makes sure that everyone else knows what everyone else is doing. She is something of the town's social police. It seems Doris has left town in light of the recent unpleasantness.
Maria Wodhy	A house servant at Moonsong Winery. She's considered old and, for the most part, keeps to herself. She is a religious woman. She has served the Moonsongs for over 40 years. She still remains loyal to Craf after all the excitement and all these years.
Bara Gromst	Thurton's mother lives up in Beantown. They say that her son sends her a bit of money now and then to help her along. She is a quiet woman who keeps mostly to herself since her husband died. She works various odd jobs around Beantown.
Hilar Red	He is something of a drunk. He works down at the docks when he can get a job and spends the rest of his time drinking away his money. Sometimes he does this at Kiltin's Rest, but usually it is at the sailor dives, down by the water. No one has seen Hilar in over a week. Thurton and Anastasia went to call on him again. It has now been over two weeks.
Elarian Matty	The owner of Red Wolf Stables prior to Thurton Gromst. He has since retired to a small house in the southern part of town.
Term Dillan	A foreman down at the docks. He recruits and hires. He then contracts out to ships, supplying them with manual labor to load and unload the vessels.
Erista Tramil	Sperin's wife. She is quite a beauty about town, but it is rumored that the young couple is having marital problems. She has been missing for over a week. Sperin claims that his issues with his wife's safety are now resolved. There is no need to give them any further attention.
Casli Druen	She works at Drake's store and is something of a town gossip. After all, nearly everyone must to go shopping there at some time or another.
Drake Ascen	He owns, obviously enough, Drake's Store in Akia. He is generally an honest man who is something of a traditionalist. He labels Ana as a witch as is respected as something of a leader in town. He has labeled Anastasia a witch. He is trying to hold Akia together in the recent chaos. Even Drake has now packed up his family and left town to stay with his cousin in Bairn. There are several IOU's left to Drake at his store.
Gunta	A dwarven woman and skilled metalworker who lives in the town of Duranor.
Gustav Zakharov	The patriarch of the Zakharov Clan. He leads his family of gypies in their travels.
Jake	A local farmer in Akia. He is married to Mildred and often attends poker nights with the other farmers. He supports the idea of open elections.
Mildred	She is Jake's wife and a friend of Doris Treehorn. She runs the knitting circle that many of the famers' wives attend.
Joe	One of the dockworkers. He's none too smart and likely has a crush on Ana. He can often be found drinking with Bob. He had a conversation with Anastasia and Thurton down by the docks and he still has a thing for Ana. He is unemployed and still drunk down by the docks.
Bob	Bob is the brains of the Joe-Bob group, which really isn't saying all that much. He could care less about the elections, but if Barton is giving him free beer, he'll show interest. Perhaps Joe isn't the only one with a crush on the witchy woman.
Senator Evan King	The Senator represents the large city of Joymont in the Senate and has no small degree of influence. He was sent by the Senate to observe Akia and return with a recommendation as to how the Senate should award Akia's seat in the ruling body. He seems sympathetic with the commoners, but he is a noble himself and a bit stuffy. The heavy set man has an interest in botany. He has fled town on his ship to report back to the Senate.
Mr. Smith	The Senator's personal assistant and schedule keeper.
Captain Clifford	He is the Captain of the contingent of Imperial Guards sent to protect the Senator. He is rather arrogant. He has gone with the Senator, doing his duty of protecting him.
Ires Dorianob	Jude's eldest sister. She is married and living in Larson.
Winnie Winslow	Jude's middle sister. She ran away from home at 16 and hasn't been seen since.
Carraway	Young man who lived in Flagaton Pol several years ago.
Isa	A waitress at Kiltin's Rest
Cherri Emer	Cousin of Craf and Staren Moonsong. She is a midwife in Bibon.
Reamus Getty	A tutor in Akia. Teaches the few wealthier children in town. He also acts as an accountant for the Moonsong Winery. He has been sent to Flagaton Pol by Craf with the latest shipment of wine.
Simon Perr	A farmer near the town of Bairn. He lived there his entire life.
Desa Perr	Simon's wife. Mother of Tarin, Sev, and Darien
Sev Perr	A farmer near the town of Bairn. Darien's brother.
Dorra Perr	Sev's wife. She grew up in Bairn.
Reven King	Shen's father. Grew up in Moonshadow, but moved to Bairn with his daughter. Owns a farm tools shop.
Thurstunol	A retired dwarven merchant from Duranor
Dungar	A dwarven merchant, business partner with Shen and Darien.
Ranger Captain Comrin	A ranger captain met trailing the Isoc force up into the Westworld Mountains. He led Craf, Anon and Maria to draw away the assassins.
Ranger Anon	A deaf ranger under Captain Comrin. His first aid skills are noted as exceptional.
Spritan Turr	The town blacksmith of Akia. He owns The Old Forge. One of the pillars of the community. He thinks highly of Thurton.
Harry	Harry is a local fisherman. He has a wife and kids. He also does crabbing and makes his living from it.
Wren "Scout"	Ren lives on the tower island in the Blue Sea with the old man and George. He has been there for ages and is paying off a debt. He takes up various artistic hobbies and seems to just be talentless. How else would one pass the time on the island?
George	A Nygril who lives ont he tower island in the Blue sea as well. He is a master fisherman.
The "Old Man"	He doesn't give out his name, but he lives in the tower in the Blue Sea and is clearly the master of it. He seems to be a wizard of some sort, but what he can and can't do seems to be vague.
Captain Jen	She is the captain of the Skyship Redwing. She looks to be in her mid-twenties with long black hair. It seems she knows Kira from somewhere.
Firstmate Dale	He works with Jen on the Redwing. He is a few years older and more personable than she.
Empa	An old member of the Guild. He is, for the most part, retired and now just serves as a guard.
"Supervisor" Max Oaster	A ranking officer within the Guild. The only thing strange about Max is that he is so normal, considering his line of business.
Bakka	An old homeless woman in Flagaton Pol.

Staren Moonsong	Second child of Alphon Moonsong. Mother of Aliana Moonsong. Died at the age of 42 of the wasting sickness in the year 189 2C.
Alphon Moonsong	Often referred to as "Old Man Moonsong" by the locals of Akia. Father of Craf and Staria Moonsong. Died at the age of 62 in the year 177 2C.
Tuwer Gromst	Thurton's father was a dockworker up in Beantown. He was a large, hearty man who had a good reputation until he was attacked by a Nyrgil and wounded defending his family. He never quite recovered from the wound and died a few years later of the drink.
Billy Miller	A young hobbit who lived up in Beantown. His family was killed by raiding Nyrgil many years ago.
Tanya Tramil	Sperin's mother. She was killed in a house fire six years ago.
Mikel Tramil	Sperin's father. He was killed in that same fire. He was a well respected farmer who moved his family to Akia from the cities back east.
Ivan Zakharov	Anastasia's uncle. He died many years ago in Isoc.
Elisaveta Zakharov	Anastasia's mother. She died of the wasting sickness when her daughter was a teenager.
Sorcen Amber	A young soldier from Salabelle who was killed in the eastern marches while out on border patrol.
Lilly Gromst	Thurton's wife. Lilly passed away a few years ago from the wasting sickness. She was from Beanstown, like Thur, and was his childhood sweetheart. Together, the pair ran Red Wolf Stables for a number of years.
Barton Jones	"Jolly Jones" they call him. He is currently the owner of Kiltin's Rest. He keeps the place running smoothly. Some of the locals murmur he has a soft spot for Aliana, but he is a bit old for her. He never did marry and locals murmur that, late at night, he drinks much of his own stock alone. He is friendly with Thurton Gromst. Barton organized the local Commoner Political Movement in Akia, attempting to get the town to have free elections. He was found murdered in Kiltin's Rest. It was revealed that Barton was Aliana's father. He is buried out near the Contu River at an old fishing spot that he and Thurton used to often frequent.
Svetlana	An old gypsy seer who traveled with the Zakharov Clan.
Drannyl	A Grugach translator. He sacrificed himself to the "land" stop the "cold" in Fort Hancock.
Ahib Kil'din	One of the "men in black" who was taken prisoner. He is from the town of Bokor in Tiscot. He has a daughter named Enna. He owed a debt to someone named Rahil so was recruited into this band to help pay it off. Ahib escaped somewhere in the Westworld Mountains. Anastasia claims to have a vision of him being consumed by whatever was in Fort Hancock. Slain by Sperin when the black fog entered him.
Dom Gindim	The younger of the two Gindim boys. He works on his father's farm. He was sent to Fort Hancock with his brother. There was no sign of him on the road to Fort Hancock. He was possessed by the black fog and shot and killed by Creyton.
Eker	A member of the Imperial Guard. Sent to Fort Hancock to notify Rangers of events in Akia by Captain Clifford. There was no sign of him on the road to Fort Hancock. Slain by Creyton, Sperin, and Thurton when he tried to defend the black fog at Fort Hancock. Creyton concealed the body in the mountains near Fort Hancock.
Markson Gindim	He works on his father's farm as well as having a part time job down at the mill. Drake sent him to Fort Hancock to check on "Cook". There was no sign of him on the road to Fort Hancock. Driven by the black fog, he rode his horse off a cliff in the Westworld Mountains.
"Cook"	No one really knows this guy's name. He works as a cook at the Rest. Some people gossip that he had legal troubles back east and came out here to get away from it all. He was sent to Fort Hancock to fetch a Ranger by Drake. There was no sign of Cook in Fort Hancock, but Sperin thinks he is a traitor because he was born in Tiscot. He has lived in Akia for about three years. He was encountered in the Westworld Mountains, fleeing the black fog. Aliana slit his throat then he fell off a cliff.
Tarin Perr	An imperial soldier. Killed near Gofin by bandits.
Simia King	Shen's mother. She died at childbirth.
Srowe Achado	Kira's father. He passed away when their apartment was robbed, killed as the thieves fled.
Nirre Achado	Kira's mother. She was killed in the same robbery.
Ranger Mikel Seawind	A ranger under Captain Comrin. Loves eating apples and telling tales. Took "the group" from the Westworld Mountains, back to Akia. Has placed them under "town arrest" in Akia. He is an excellent swordsman and placed the group under Kira's protection. He was slain, buying the group time to escape from one of the assassins come for Aliana.