Characters

Kaoldan

Red Augur — Order of Walkers

Kaoldan is a man who would much rather avoid being the centre of attention, which is unfortunate given his position within the Order of Walkers. Tall, lean and with dirty-blonde hair and a short beard, he is a formidable warrior, highly skilled in the use of Fajin and his shape-shifting Walkerblade.

Despite his considerable abilities, he is not a man given to boasting, preferring to let his actions speak for themselves. He is a gentle, thoughtful man, although occasionally grumpy and possessed of a temper that can get the better of him.

Accompanied by Tren, his grey panthera, and Dref, a rather independent giant Schnauzer, Kaoldan is a devoted father and fiercely loyal friend. His past weighs heavily upon him, and while he might wish for a quieter life, the world seems determined to have other ideas.

If The Souls’ Abyss were ever made into a film or television series, the actor I would like to see playing Kaoldan is Alexander Skarsgård.

Romina

Walker — Eldest Daughter of Kaoldan

Romina is tall, willowy and possessed of a cheerful disposition that can be rather infectious. With honey-blonde hair, a scattering of freckles and a tendency to snort when she laughs, she is an engaging young woman who has grown considerably in confidence since her early days at the Walker Academy in Vanguard.

An excellent student, Romina has always taken her responsibilities seriously, perhaps a little too seriously at times. She is clever, capable and naturally inquisitive, although her desire to please others has sometimes meant putting their expectations before her own.

More measured than her younger sister, Zahara, she is nevertheless quite capable of speaking her mind when the occasion demands it. Beneath her warm and occasionally excitable exterior is a young Walker beginning to discover that the world is rather more complicated than her studies might have suggested.

If The Souls’ Abyss were ever made into a film or television series, the actress I would like to see playing Romina is Freya Allan.

Zahara

Walker — Youngest Daughter of Kaoldan

Zahara has never been particularly fond of being told what she can and cannot do. Shorter and more powerfully built than her sister, with brass-blonde hair and sharp grey eyes, she is a gifted gymnast, an accomplished young Walker and something of a handful.

Confident, outspoken and blessed with a rather mischievous sense of humour, Zahara possesses a determination that occasionally borders on outright stubbornness. She has little time for arrogance and even less patience for those foolish enough to underestimate her.

Although she would generally prefer practising with her Walkerblade to sitting through an afternoon of lectures, she is far from unintelligent and has a natural ability to see things others might miss. Beneath the occasional sharp word and challenging stare is a loyal and affectionate young woman, although getting her to admit as much might prove rather difficult.

If The Souls’ Abyss were ever made into a film or television series, the actress I would like to see playing Zahara is Florence Pugh.

Kubrean

Grey Master — Order of Walkers

Kubrean is a giant of a man, both in stature and reputation. Broad-shouldered and powerfully built, with dark skin, long grey-and-white dreadlocks and a magnificent crocodile smile, he is one of the most experienced and respected Masters within the Order of Walkers.

An exceptionally intelligent man, Kubrean possesses a calm, thoughtful manner and the rather useful ability to make people listen without having to raise his voice. He has been Kaoldan's mentor and confidant for many years, providing advice, reassurance and the occasional much-needed telling-off. Despite his considerable standing within the Order, Kubrean is happiest in a kitchen, preparing elaborate meals for his friends.

His fondness for good food is rivalled only by his appreciation of a decent beer and a comfortable tavern. Wise, modest and possessed of a dry sense of humour, he is a man who rarely wastes words, although he is rather more generous with portions.

If The Souls’ Abyss were ever made into a film or television series, the actor I would like to see playing Kubrean is Idris Elba.

Zalen

Red Augur — Order of Walkers

Zalen is convinced that he is a man of extraordinary talents. Fortunately for those around him, he is rather less serious about life than he is about his own abilities. A lifelong friend of Kaoldan, Zalen is a sandy-haired, broad-armed Walker with an infectious smile and a seemingly endless supply of questionable humour.

His optimistic outlook can be something of a blessing, particularly when the world appears determined to make life as miserable as possible. An experienced warrior and skilled archer, Zalen is far more capable than his carefree manner might suggest.

He is practical, dependable and fiercely loyal, although he would generally prefer a good drink, a comfortable chair and an entertaining conversation to anything involving unnecessary effort. Accompanied by Salah, his white panthera, Zalen approaches most difficulties with a shrug, a grin and the firm belief that things will probably work themselves out.

If The Souls’ Abyss were ever made into a film or television series, the actor I would like to see playing Zalen is Nikolaj Coster-Waldau.

Tokel

Grey Master — Order of Walkers

Tokel is a woman who possesses the rather remarkable ability to make even the most stubborn of men listen to reason. Gentle, kind and endlessly patient, she is an experienced Grey Master whose considerable abilities are matched by her understanding of people.

With dark brown skin, bright eyes and wavy white hair streaked with black, Tokel presents a striking contrast to her husband, Nova. Where he can be irritable, impatient and occasionally rather dramatic, Tokel is calm, composed and usually several steps ahead of him. The affection between them is plain for all to see, even after forty years together.

To Kaoldan and his companions, Tokel has long been something approaching a mother, offering reassurance, wisdom and the occasional affectionate reprimand. She is warm and generous with her time, although anyone mistaking her kindness for weakness would be making a considerable error of judgement.

If The Souls’ Abyss were ever made into a film or television series, the actress I would like to see playing Tokel is Angela Bassett.

Dalon

Blue Protector — Order of Walkers

Dalon is a large, heavily bearded man who bears a remarkable resemblance to a particularly disgruntled bear. With long dark hair, a broad frame and a preference for comfortable clothing, he is an imposing figure, although his appearance is somewhat at odds with his easy-going personality.

Originally from Citko, a land famous for its heat and endless sand, Dalon has never quite managed to get used to colder climates. He spends a considerable amount of time seeking warmth, preferably beside a roaring fire with something hot to drink. An experienced Protector and a formidable warrior, Dalon favours an enormous emerald warhammer, which he wields with rather alarming enthusiasm.

Despite this, he is a gentle and dependable friend, possessed of a wonderfully dry sense of humour and an unfortunate willingness to join Zalen in tormenting Kaoldan. He is practical, courageous and rarely one to complain, unless, of course, the weather turns cold.

If The Souls’ Abyss were ever made into a film or television series, the actor I would like to see playing Dalon is Leo Suter.

Dref

Giant Schnauzer — Kaoldan's Loyal Companion

Dref has never quite understood why Kaoldan believes himself to be in charge. As far as this large, black and rather opinionated giant Schnauzer is concerned, the arrangement has always been the other way around. With his enormous eyebrows, magnificent bushy beard and a long pink tongue that rarely remains where it ought to, Dref has mastered the art of looking deeply offended when things fail to go according to his plans.

Affectionate, mischievous and possessed of a stubborn streak to rival Kaoldan's own, Dref is devoted to his companion, although this does not necessarily extend to obeying him. He is particularly fond of food, comfortable places to sleep and receiving the sort of attention he considers his due. Instructions, especially those involving restraint or delayed meals, are rather less appealing. Yet Dref is more than an entertaining addition to Kaoldan's travels. His excellent sense of smell, sharp awareness of his surroundings and instinct for trouble make him a useful companion, especially when danger is not immediately obvious.

He is also a source of much-needed companionship for a man who all too often carries his worries alone. Dref shares an unlikely friendship with Tren, Kaoldan's enormous grey panthera, despite the considerable difference in their size. Dref may not fully understand the troubles facing Essealar, nor, one suspects, would he particularly care for the politics of its people. But he knows whom he loves, whom he trusts and where he belongs. And when it matters, there are few companions Kaoldan could depend upon more.

If The Souls’ Abyss were ever made into a film or television series, the dog I would like to see playing Dref is [Dog’s name].

Kryst

Walker — Order of Walkers

Kryst is a large, broad-chested man with dark skin, dreadlocked hair and a beard. Despite his imposing appearance, he is rather uncomfortable being the centre of attention, preferring the company of a few close friends to a room full of strangers.

A skilled warrior and accomplished user of Fajin, Kryst possesses a thoughtful and patient nature, with an interest in knowledge that extends well beyond the battlefield. A lifelong friend of Kaoldan, the two have shared more than twenty-five years of friendship, training and adventures.

Kryst is dependable, intelligent and quietly compassionate, although his gentle manner conceals a past that has left its mark upon him. He is a man who values loyalty above almost everything else, and those fortunate enough to call him a friend will find few better.

Casting: If The Souls’ Abyss were adapted for film or television, my choice to portray Kryst would be Winston Duke.

Johana

Grey Walker — Order of Walkers

Tall, with blonde hair and an assured manner, Johana is a woman who has earned her position within the Order of Walkers. Intelligent, capable and possessed of considerable determination, she is not someone easily persuaded to abandon her principles.

She takes her duties seriously, although there is considerably more to her than the composed and professional figure she presents to those around her. Johana has known Kaoldan since their days training together, a friendship that has endured despite the years and distances between them.

She is a woman of considerable strength and compassion, although her willingness to challenge those around her can occasionally make life rather difficult. Particularly for Kaoldan, who seems to find himself unusually lost for words whenever she is nearby.

Casting: If The Souls’ Abyss were adapted for film or television, my choice to portray Johana would be Katheryn Winnick.

Gythe

The Black Walker — Paragon Master of the Order of Walkers

Gythe is arguably one of the most powerful and influential people in Essealar. As the Black Walker and Paragon Master of the Order, she commands considerable respect, although her appearance is not necessarily what people expect.

With dark skin and short platinum-blonde hair, she possesses a warmth and sense of humour that can quickly put others at ease, particularly those who have the misfortune to comment upon her height. An experienced warrior and formidable wielder of Fajin, Gythe has earned a reputation through her courage and remarkable abilities.

She is intelligent, confident and accustomed to making difficult decisions, often carrying responsibilities that few others could begin to understand. Her position demands that she consider the future of the entire Order, even when those around her disagree with her judgement. Beneath her approachable manner lies a formidable woman whose true thoughts are not always easy to discern.

Casting: If The Souls’ Abyss were adapted for film or television, my choice to portray Gythe would be Lashana Lynch.

Aralorne

Scholar, Historian and Seeker of Knowledge

Aralorne Beldarne Mortane is a man blessed with considerable intelligence, something he is rather fond of reminding everybody about. With shoulder-length white hair, pale skin and dark blue eyes, he possesses an easy smile and an almost infuriating level of confidence in his own abilities.

He is widely travelled, exceptionally well-read and fascinated by the forgotten histories of Essealar. Originally from the town of Treg, Aralorne has dedicated much of his life to uncovering knowledge that others have either overlooked or dismissed as legend.

His particular fascination with the ancient ruler Reng has made him an important source of information, although his tendency to place facts above feelings does little to endear him to everyone he meets. Kaoldan, in particular, finds his considerable self-confidence difficult to tolerate. Aralorne, naturally, appears entirely untroubled by this.

Casting: If The Souls’ Abyss were adapted for film or television, my choice to portray Aralorne would be Matt Smith.

Nova

Grey Master — Order of Walkers

Nova is a small man with a rather considerable personality. Standing barely five and a half feet tall, with greying hair, an ageing face and a walking cane that he employs with almost as much enthusiasm as his voice, he is a familiar and occasionally exasperating presence within the Order of Walkers. Impatient, irritable and possessed of a remarkable ability to find fault with almost everything, Nova has little time for unnecessary delays, foolish questions or people who fail to appreciate the importance of his position.

Yet behind the grumbling and occasional outbursts lies an exceptionally intelligent and experienced Master. Nova possesses a formidable understanding of the Order, its responsibilities and the complicated business of keeping its members moving in something approaching the same direction. He is an accomplished leader, capable of commanding a room despite his diminutive stature, and has a habit of making decisions before anyone else has quite finished discussing them. This can be particularly irritating for Kaoldan, who has learned that arguing with Nova is often an exercise in considerable futility.

His wife, Tokel, is perhaps the only person in Essealar capable of silencing him with little more than a raised eyebrow. The affection between them is unmistakable, and despite his occasionally cantankerous disposition, Nova is a warm-hearted and deeply loyal man. He cares enormously for those under his guidance, although expressing such sentiments directly would probably make him rather uncomfortable. For Kaoldan and his companions, Nova is considerably more than a senior Master. He is a trusted adviser, an old friend and, whether they appreciate it or not, someone who has always tried to look after them.

Casting: If The Souls’ Abyss were adapted for film or television, my choice to portray Nova would be Toby Jones.

Reng

The Ancient Warlord

There are some names that history remembers for all the wrong reasons. Reng is most certainly one of them. A warlord from a distant age, Reng is remembered as a ruthless and merciless ruler, obsessed with power and seemingly prepared to do anything to obtain it.

Tales of his conquests and extraordinary abilities have survived for centuries, although separating truth from legend has proved something of a challenge. According to the stories, Reng possessed powers beyond those of ordinary men, and his apparent ability to survive encounters that should have ended his life has long troubled historians.

Some believe he was little more than a particularly unpleasant tyrant whose reputation grew with the telling. Others are not quite so certain. Whatever the truth, the name Reng continues to cast a long shadow over the history of Essealar. And perhaps some stories are better left undisturbed.

If The Souls’ Abyss were ever made into a film or television series, the actor I would like to see playing Reng is Ian McShane.

Rhazien

Master of Shadows

Rhazien is not a man accustomed to being told no. Tall and lean, with pale features and dark hair streaked with silver, he possesses an air of authority that he appears to believe should be immediately recognised by everyone he meets.

Intelligent, articulate and rather fond of his own voice, Rhazien is a calculating individual with an extraordinary opinion of his own importance. He has a theatrical manner and an unsettling sense of humour, often finding amusement in circumstances that others might consider rather less entertaining. His charm can be persuasive, his temper unpredictable and his patience decidedly limited.

He is a man driven by ambition, possessed of considerable ability and an unwavering belief that he is destined for something far greater than the ordinary concerns of the world. Rhazien expects obedience, and those unwilling to provide it may discover that his pleasant manner is not always a reliable indication of his intentions.

If The Souls’ Abyss were ever made into a film or television series, the actor I would like to see playing Rhazien is Mads Mikkelsen.

Morveen

Walker — Wife of Kaoldan and Mother of Romina and Zahara

Morveen is, in many respects, everything that Kaoldan is not. Where he can be awkward and uncomfortable with the demands of leadership, she possesses a natural confidence and an ability to take charge without appearing to make any particular effort. With curly walnut-coloured hair and striking blue eyes, Morveen is an accomplished and highly respected Walker.

Her mastery of Fajin and the Walkerblade is exceptional, although she has never been one to boast about her abilities. Wise, thoughtful and gentle in her dealings with others, she possesses a strength of character that has earned her the respect and affection of those who know her.

A devoted mother to Romina and Zahara, Morveen understands the responsibilities of family and the Order, and the difficulties that sometimes arise when the two come into conflict. She is a woman of considerable conviction, not easily persuaded from a course she believes to be right, and someone whose influence upon Kaoldan and his family is profound.

If The Souls’ Abyss were ever made into a film or television series, the actress I would like to see playing Morveen is Rebecca Ferguson.

Onala

Reaver — Order of the Otan

Onala is a young woman who has learned that showing weakness is rarely a particularly good idea. With dark hair, penetrating eyes and an assured manner, she possesses a confidence that can be rather unsettling, particularly when accompanied by her tendency to say precisely what she thinks. An accomplished warrior and skilled wielder of Fajin, Onala is intelligent, observant and considerably more dangerous than her youthful appearance might suggest.

Raised amongst the Otan, Onala has grown accustomed to a world where strength, loyalty and obedience are expected rather than requested. She has a sharp tongue, a stubborn disposition and a habit of approaching difficult situations with the firm belief that she knows best. Yet beneath her occasionally confrontational manner lies a thoughtful young woman, one who is not quite as certain of herself as she would have others believe.

Onala is fiercely independent and reluctant to place her trust in others, although she possesses a capacity for kindness and compassion that might surprise those who believe they understand her. She is a woman shaped by the expectations of others, but increasingly aware that there may be more to life than simply fulfilling them. And while she might not always appreciate being questioned, she is beginning to discover that asking questions of herself can prove considerably more difficult.

Casting: If The Souls’ Abyss were adapted for film or television, my choice to portray Onala would be Sophie Cookson.

Bromlyn

Rectrix — Order of the Míru Sib

Tall, pale-skinned and with long, curly red hair, Bromlyn is a commanding presence. As Rectrix of the mysterious Míru Sib, she leads an ancient Order whose existence has faded into little more than legend for many of the inhabitants of Essealar.

Dressed in white, she possesses an elegance and confidence that make her difficult to ignore. Bromlyn is articulate, persuasive and entirely comfortable challenging those who disagree with her. She has a remarkable ability to appear charming and accommodating while guiding a conversation precisely where she wishes it to go.

Beneath her pleasant manner lies a determined and formidable leader, utterly convinced of the importance of her Order and its purpose. The Míru Sib have remained apart from the wider world for centuries, and Bromlyn understands better than most that their return will raise as many questions as it answers.

Casting: If The Souls’ Abyss were adapted for film or television, my choice to portray Bromlyn would be Poppy Montgomery.