Arseniy is the editor of the Konstantina Sun. 

Sir Pavlo Demigov is a man of quiet efficiency and unwavering loyalty. A seasoned diplomat and a master of courtly intrigue, he serves as the indispensable personal secretary to King Stanislas II.

Demigov's life has been intertwined with the court since his youth. Born into a family of minor nobility, he excelled in his studies, demonstrating a keen intellect and a remarkable ability to navigate the royal court's complex social and political landscape. His sharp wit and keen observations quickly caught the attention of Prince Rurik, who recognized his potential and appointed him as his personal secretary. When Rurik ascended the throne as King Stanislas II, he brought Demigov with him to continue serving as his personal secretary.

As the King's closest confidante, Demigov serves as his eyes and ears, discreetly gathering intelligence, managing correspondence, and ensuring the smooth running of the royal household. He possesses a remarkable memory, recalling intricate details of conversations, dates, and events with uncanny accuracy. His loyalty to the King is absolute, and he would do anything to protect his monarch and uphold the honor of the crown.

Beyond his official duties, Demigov cultivates a network of informants throughout the kingdom, keeping a watchful eye on potential threats and maintaining a delicate balance of power within the court. He is a master of diplomacy, adept at navigating the treacherous waters of courtly intrigue and maintaining cordial relations with foreign dignitaries.

While his outward demeanor is often reserved and austere, Demigov possesses a dry wit and a cynical sense of humor that he occasionally allows to surface, usually in the company of close friends. He is a man of few words but many secrets; his past is shrouded in a veil of mystery.

Despite his dedication to the King, Demigov remains a pragmatist, recognizing the shifting sands of power and the ever-present threat of betrayal. He understands that survival in the court requires a delicate balance of loyalty, cunning, and an unwavering commitment to self-preservation.

Hennadii, the proprietor of the South Gate Hotel, is a man in his mid-fifties whose quiet demeanor belies a sharp mind and an unwavering discretion. With a neatly trimmed beard streaked with silver and eyes that observe far more than they reveal, he moves through his boutique establishment with the graceful efficiency of someone intimately familiar with every detail. He carries himself with a dignified calm, never rushed, yet always present, ensuring his guests' comfort and privacy are paramount. Though he rarely speaks of his past, his subtle understanding of human nature and the unspoken undercurrents of Konstantina's high society suggests a history far more intriguing than that of a simple hotelier. His reputation for absolute trustworthiness is the bedrock of the South Gate's success, making him a silent confidant to many who seek its quiet refuge.

Ihor is the owner of Sezjan Sparkles.

Khrystyna is a middle-aged woman with strong, calloused hands and a watchful eye, who more ofkept dress. She often wears a sturdy apron over a simple, neat outfit. She is the proprietor of the Whispering Market, a key provisioning hub in Konstantina. She is a woman defined by her sharp business sense and practical demeanor, running the market with a firm but fair hand. She is experienced and resourceful, accustomed to dealing with all manner of merchants, customers, and delivery teams. She is less interested in city politics and more concerned with the logistics of supply, pricing, and ensuring the smooth, daily operation of her market. As the owner of the market, she is a central figure in the city's food supply chain. She would be the one who organizes the goods, sets the day's prices, and manages the flow of vendors and customers, making her an important contact for anyone investigating the missing delivery team and the stolen provisions.

Marta, director of Konstantina's Grand Royal Opera, is a formidable woman in her early fifties whose theatrical passion and iron will have forged her career from humble beginnings to a position of immense influence. Her sharp eyes, a blend of artistic fire and shrewd calculation, miss nothing as she orchestrates productions that not only dazzle the senses but also often subtly reflect or comment on the city's intricate political currents. She maintains uncompromising artistic standards, demanding perfection from her performers and crew. Her extensive network of contacts within Konstantina's aristocratic and artistic circles grants her a keen understanding of the city's hidden machinations, allowing her to wield the power of art as a potent tool within its high-intrigue society.

Maksym is the Grand Royal Opera's stage manager

Mykola's story is one of deep connection to the history and hidden heart of Konstantina, a man whose mind seems to reside more in the city's past than its present. Mykola's visible life in Konstantina centers around a single public garden fountain, where he has been a fixture for over fifty years. Dressed in clothes that belong to a bygone era—specifically the Regency period of 70 to 85 years ago—he appears to be a living, breathing anachronism. Mykola is no ordinary beggar or eccentric; however, he is an unwitting oracle. He claims that the fountain "whispers secrets to him," suggesting he is constantly tuned into the psychic residue or forgotten histories seeping up from the city's ancient foundations. His habit of feeding the seagulls in this specific, sacred spot only reinforces his image as a man tethered to the island's natural and historical cycles.

King Stanislas II's eldest daughter, Princess Darina of Sezja is a woman of exceptional intellect and a delicate constitution, qualities that have shaped her unusual position not only within her own Sezjan royal family but also in her current, somewhat isolated life as Crown Princess in Natavia. In her early twenties, she possesses a serene beauty, often described as ethereal, with eyes that hold a wisdom beyond her years and a gentle, almost melancholic smile.

Her current life in Natavia is one of quiet, scholarly retreat, a stark contrast to the political machinations she left behind in Sezja. She resides in a secluded, yet comfortable, estate, chosen specifically for its temperate climate and access to renowned libraries and scholarly communities, which she seeks out when her health permits. Her days are largely devoted to the intellectual pursuits she cherishes: spending countless hours within her personal library, corresponding with learned minds across the continent, and engaging in deep theological and philosophical discussions. 

While Natavia offers her the peace necessary to manage a chronic illness – debilitating bouts of fever and profound fatigue that frequently leave her bedridden – it also serves as a polite exile meant to cement the alliance between Sezja and Natavia. Her fragile health, widely understood to render her physically incapable of enduring the rigorous demands of ruling, means she is unavailable to ascend to any throne, a fact that has perhaps been subtly encouraged by those who found her intellect a potential threat or her lineage an inconvenient claim. Though removed from Sezja's immediate court, her mind remains sharp, and she likely receives discreet communications, keeping her quietly aware of the political tides, even if she cannot actively participate.

King Stanislas II's youngest daughter, Elara died in 1051 during the Faceless Fever.

Queen Larysa is the current consort of the King of Sezja. Hailing from Natavia, she is the mother of the royal line that currently sits on the throne. Her primary focus is the stability and continuation of the dynasty, even if it requires difficult political maneuvering and the suppression of inconvenient truths. The Queen presents a regal yet formidable public face, but behind the scenes, she is a shrewd political operator who quietly manages the alliances and rivalries that keep her family safe and in power. She is well-versed in the court etiquette and social graces that figures like the Marquess of Sidorov and Lady Amina Voloshyna hold so dear, and uses these conventions as tools to maintain order and silence dissent.

King Stanislas Rurik II is the current ruler of Sezja. King Stanislas II is the fifth member of the Rurik noble family to rule over Sezja. His visit to Katarina is the first by a Sezjan ruler.

King Rurik Stanislas II, often affectionately referred to as "The Steadfast Stag of Sezja," reigns over the sprawling, mountainous kingdom of Sejza, nestled amongst the whispering pines. He represents the fifth generation of the Stanislas dynasty, a lineage deeply intertwined with the history and resilience of the Sezjan people.

A Formidable Youth

King Stanislas II's early life unfolded amidst the crisp Sezjan air, a far cry from the opulent trappings of royal courts. He spent his formative years alongside the kingdom's rangers, honing his skills in archery, horsemanship, and survival in the unforgiving wilderness of the north. This upbringing fostered an unwavering respect for Sezja's unforgiving yet bountiful landscapes. Legends recount his daring hunts, where he faced down ferocious mountain cats and outwitted cunning griffins, earning him the respect of the rangers and the moniker "The Steadfast Stag."

Ascension to the Throne

When King Vitomir,  Prince Rurik' father, fell victim to a treacherous illness that swept through Sezja in 1041. Prince Rurik ascended the throne and took the name Stanislas II in honor of the holy founder of the dynasty. Thrust into the role of King at a young age, Stanislas II surprised many. Gone was the brash youth; in his place stood a composed, strategic leader.

Married to Princess Maria of Natavia, King Stanislas II has three children: Prince Yegor is the eldest. His middle child is Princess Darina, while his youngest child was Princess Elara, who died  during the Faceless Fever.

A King of Unity and Progress

Sezja, historically fractured by regional rivalries, found a unifying force in King Stanislas II. He implemented policies that fostered cooperation between the various provinces of the kindgom. He revitalized trade routes, ensuring fair trade practices and boosting the kingdom's economy.

The Steadfast Diplomat

Despite Sezja's traditional isolationism, King Stanislas II recognized the changing political landscape. He initiated diplomatic exchanges with neighboring kingdoms, building bridges through trade and cultural exchange. At the same time, he sought to reinforce the military might of Sejza, and engaged on an expensive expansion of the Sejzan navy.

A Man of the Mountains

King Stanislas II remains a man of the wilds at heart. He frequently leads hunting expeditions with the rangers, keeping a pulse on the land and its people. He is known for his unpretentious demeanor, often preferring the warmth of a campfire to the confines of the palace. This down-to-earth approach has garnered him the unwavering loyalty of his subjects.

King Stanislas II stands as a testament to Sezjan fortitude. He is a king who embodies the spirit of his people – resilient, resourceful, and deeply connected to their untamed land. His visit to Katarina represents a turning point in the kingdom’s relations with its remote province.

Prince Yegor, heir to the throne of Sezja, is a man in his late twenties whose robust health and boisterous charisma stand in stark contrast to his ailing sister, Darina. With a powerful build honed by regular training in horsemanship and swordsmanship, and a laugh that often booms through palace halls, Yegor embodies the traditional ideals of a strong, decisive ruler. He possesses a pragmatic and often direct manner, preferring action to contemplation, and thrives on the adoration of his people and the loyalty of his troops. While perhaps lacking Darina's deep intellectual curiosity or her nuanced understanding of philosophy, Yegor compensates with a shrewd political instinct and an unyielding determination to secure Sezja's power and influence, making him a formidable, if sometimes unsubtle, force in the intricate dance of royal succession.

Captain Ruslan, a figure of imposing stature and unwavering loyalty, commands the Royal Guard of Sezja. Born and bred for service, Ruslan's life has been inextricably linked to the sword since childhood. He honed his skills in the finest academies, mastering the art of combat with sword, spear, and shield. His reputation precedes him - a fearsome warrior with a steely gaze and a heart forged in the fires of countless battles.

Ruslan's loyalty to the crown is absolute. He views his duty as sacred, a solemn oath sworn to protect the King and the realm from all threats, foreign and domestic. He is a man of few words, his gruff exterior masking a deep-seated honor and a fierce protectiveness towards those he is sworn to defend.

Discipline is paramount to Ruslan. He demands absolute obedience from his men, ensuring that the Royal Guard is a well-oiled machine ready to respond to any threat swiftly and decisively. He is a master tactician, able to anticipate danger and react with lightning speed.

While his focus lies on defending the realm, Ruslan is not unfamiliar with the intrigues that swirl around the court. He possesses a keen eye for deceit and a sharp mind for discerning hidden agendas. He maintains a watchful gaze over the court, ever vigilant for signs of treachery or rebellion.

Ruslan is a man of action, and his life is defined by duty and honor. He is a formidable warrior, a loyal guardian, and an unwavering pillar of strength for the Sezjan crown.

Dr. Mykola Sadistik is King Stanislas II's personal traveling physician. He accompanied the King on his visit to Katarina in June 1066 SE.

A man of unparalleled medical skill, Dr. Sadistik was renowned for his innovative treatments and uncanny ability to diagnose even the most perplexing ailments. He once intervened as a trusted physician to the royal family during the Faceless Fever.

Born into a family of modest means, Dr. Sadistik's passion for healing was evident from a young age. He dedicated herself to the study of medicine after joining the Church, spending countless hours poring over ancient texts and experimenting with various remedies. His natural talent and unwavering determination soon earned him recognition as a skilled and dedicated physician.

Over the years, Dr. Sadistik treated a wide range of patients, from the ailing nobility to the common folk. His reputation for compassion and effectiveness spread far and wide, and he was often sought out for his expertise, even by rulers of neighboring kingdoms. Since the Faceless Fever, however, Dr. Sadistik has withdrawn from public life, pursuing research he hoped would revolutionize medicine.

Sir Sergeii is a world-renowned baritone who happens to be first cousin to the King of Sezja. He has toured extensively through Sezja and beyond, but this is his first trip to Katarina. Although he performs three unforgettable nights, his primary mission was to analyze the situation on the ground and report his observations to the King. Sir Sergeii then returned to Katarina during the King's visit in June 1066 SE, and invited Sir Gregory to bring Masha and the Bear to Sezja's Grand Royal Opera.

Vika is the owner of the Golden Griffon.

Lady Amina Voloshyna is the theater and art critic for the Konstantina Sun. She is perhaps the single most feared and influential critic in Konstantina, holding the power to elevate or completely destroy an artist's career with a single stroke of her pen in the city's paper of record. Lady Voloshyna's mannerisms are an uncanny echo of the notorious Marquess of Sidorov. She is utterly obsessed with presentation, constantly appearing in stunning, dramatically tailored attire that invariably dominates any room she enters. Like the Marquess, her critique begins not with the performance, but with the aesthetics of the surrounding scene: the cut of the actors' costumes, the upholstery of the theater seats, or the precise shade of paint on a canvas.

Her reactions in public are meticulously performed. Should a piece of art or theater offend her refined sensibilities, she won't merely write a bad review—she will treat the event as a personal, catastrophic offense. She is famous for issuing a delicate, yet audible, gasp of refined distress during a faulty performance, often followed by dramatically clutching her head or fanning herself, as if the lack of polish has caused her a genuine physical ailment. She views high art as a social ceremony meant solely to uphold the standards of the elite,

Yevgen is a master luthier and the owner of The Luthier’s Harp, a quiet, fragrant sanctuary for musicians nestled in Konstantina’s Walled City. More than just a shopkeeper, he is a craftsman whose life is devoted to the art of making and repairing instruments. He spends his days at a cluttered workbench, the scent of wood and varnish clinging to him as he meticulously works on his creations. He also fosters a new generation of talent, providing a backroom for private lessons, where the voices of children often mix with the sound of plucked strings.