The Leaders

Dr Arkru Chief scientist of the Ark, whose good intention for the student collectors are based upon the

(the Professor) friendlier worlds of Beskol, Raethia, and Orm.

Falon Commander of the vessel, who discovers the new planet, but remains Arkru’s staunchest critic after

landing on the new world.

The Students

Rifkin Prodigal student, whose reckless personality leads to disaster on the planet.

Zither Intellectual member of Arkru’s class, whose personal odyssey becomes a central theme.

Rezwit Kindred spirit of Rifkin, a favorite of the professor, until mayhem breaks in the forest.

Vimml Fun loving but mischievous follower of Rifkin who creates havoc on and off the ship.

Shizwit Shy student, who, rising to the crisis, becomes the Key Master of her class.

Alafa Female Student, the equal to Rifkin, who competes with the leader of her team.

Omrik Original friend of Zither, whose timid personality, is more suitable on the ship.

Illiakim Female member of Zither’s team, who is traumatized by the horrors of Irignum.

Lumnal Youngster who identifies with the big kids, until disaster strikes in the forest.

Yorzl and

Zeppa Male and female youngsters, who should never been allowed off the ship.

Grummel Member of “Rifkin’s Gang,” who, on the new world, appears to be slightly mad.

Zorig An efficient assistant to Arkru, who proves to be a great disappointment in the forest.

Urlum Zorig’s little sister, whose delicate emotions, keeps her grounded on the ship.

Tobit and

Orix Navigator of the ship and chief critic of the mission, who skepticism rings true.

Remgen First Mate, a critic of student collection until the search for Rifkin begins.

Imwep Second Mate, whose main interest at first is bagging himself a beast.

Kogin Third Mate, sidekick of Imwep, who befriends Zither at a critical time.

Dazl Chief Engineer, a crusty officer, who joins the search for Rifkin in the forest.

Abwur Communications Officer, ship sage and member of Falon’s inner circle.

Dr Eglin Chaplain and Medic, whose prayers are heard frequently from the bridge.

Varik Assistant Medic, who will make a lasting imprint upon earth.

Wurbl Portly Chef who supplies the ship’s company with a limitless range of alien meats.

Imyor Assistant Chef who reluctantly volunteers for the second rescue mission into the forest.

Hobi, Jitso Ship’s Storage Clerks. Hobi and Jitso will later join at different stages of the search,

& Gennep but only one will return to the ship