Nona Grey
A near-complete sister whose greatest strength remains her capacity to form fierce bonds.
Zole
Nona’s ally and counterpart, able to pursue purity and power with a discipline Nona does not share.
Sister Pan
The elderly Path teacher whose apparent frailty conceals a lifetime of preparation.
Abbess Glass
The strategist whose death partway through the book leaves Sweet Mercy running the last of her plans without her.
Ara
Nona’s closest friend and a powerful hunska, called beyond the convent during the crisis.
Sherzal
The emperor’s sister, still seeking control of the shipheart and the moon.
Kettle and Apple
Grey Sisters whose partnership embodies the adult life Nona is fighting to preserve.