A talented young knight whose prospects could hardly seem better, Jeral has recently come into the inheritance of his uncle, the prior Duke of Farel, and has just been appointed captain of the guard. What's more, he falls in love with Blanche at first sight, and they are to be married. Jeral is the very definition of the knightly ideal - a skilled swordsman, brave, self-sacrificing - there is not an evil bone in his body. He is caught completely by surprise when the Church accuses him of heresy.

The daughter of the local lord, Duke Bruneau. (Note: Though hime is usually translated princess, it can be used to refer to any noble-born girl.) When Blanche meets Jeral, she is immediately captivated by him. The accusation of heresy leveled against her and Jeral renders her imprisoned and the subject of a fatal curse. Though Blanche spends most of her time waiting to be rescued, like her beloved she has a noble heart, and is no less self-sacrificing than he is. Though she is not strong, she is brave.

Another member of the Farel house and Jeral's cousin, the Archbishop has far exceeded his family's expectations by becoming so powerful at such a young age. His calm and disinterested exterior hides many secrets - most prominent among them is his use of witchcraft, and his growing ties to a terrible being from time immemorial. The architect of Blanche and Jeral's misfortunes, he curses Blanche so that she transforms into a hawk by day. What has inspired him to betray those closest to him?

A novice monk in the monastery associated with the Archbishop's cathedral, about 13 or 14 years old. Nicol's family sent him off to become a monk, but he secretly harbors dreams of becoming a knight. So naturally, when he discovers Blanche imprisoned in the cathedral, he tries to help her. And naturally, when Jeral comes to free her, he is so impressed that he asks to go with them. For all that Nicol is young and awkward, he is equally full of idealism and eager to be useful. There may hope for him yet.

Though the peasants who live near Myure's house claim she is a witch, she seems nothing more than a friendly and rather garrulous old lady who lives by herself in the woods. Neither are entirely true. Myure claims that she is a faerie, the last remaining of a magical race that once protected humans from supernatural perils. Though she has lost most of her powers, she volunteers to assist Jeral and Blanche as best she can. (Note: A good romanization for her name eludes me - the raw romanization is myu-ru.)