🔥 Heartblaze Glossary

Acropolis

A walled area on a high hill in Athens, home to the Parthenon.

Acropolis of Sparta

A hill on the north side of Sparta, home to the Temple of Athena.

Addis Ababa Bole International Airport

An airport in Ethiopia where Tyler Buck is screened by security upon his arrival.

Adyton

The innermost sanctum of a temple, particularly in Delphi, where the Oracle delivers prophecies.

Aetolian League

A confederation of Greek city-states that Nabis hopes to discourage from supporting Rome in the First Macedonian War.

Afterworld

The realm where dead souls go before reincarnation, described by Rowan as an "enormous cattle pen of souls." The Metaverge borders it.

Agora

A huge public space in Athens, paved with cobblestones and surrounded by stoas, used as a marketplace.

Aido-Hwedo

The entity or force that the servants, including Ayana and the cult mentors, follow. Those with the blood of Aido-Hwedo are capable of becoming time-shifting dragons. A significant great dragon that Tyler and Rosemarie endeavor to protect from Roman forces. Aido-Hwedo dragons are a specific type known for aquatic abilities, capable of thriving and shifting in water.

Albert Amedeo

The National Commander of the Knights of Rome, a dwarfish and scowling man who gives Stefan his "Knight's Quest" to capture Emma.

Alexander Argyros

A Knight of Rome and direct ancestor of Saint George, on a mission to eradicate dragons. He uses a chronomichani and observes Tyler in dragon form. Later becomes General Alexander Argyros, a formidable and determined Roman military leader obsessed with eradicating dragons, leading the Nameless Legion. He is cunning and relentless in his pursuit.

Alexandria (Great Library)

A renowned ancient city in Egypt, home to the world's first research institute and a vast library. It serves as an initial jump point for Tyler and Rosemarie.

Amykles

A village south of Sparta, near the rescue point.

Anachronist

An anachronist is a time traveler who deliberately fouls or abuses the timeline, typically to exploit it for personal gain. They are considered "time terrorists" or "time criminals" and are the primary adversaries of organizations dedicated to preserving the timeline, such as Specta Aeternal (SA). Anachronists, also known as The Unbound (or The Conservators by themselves), can disrupt the normal flow of events and cause significant changes to history, sometimes by introducing anachronistic technology into earlier time periods.

Ancient Nile

A river in Egypt, a location of past adventures for Tyler and Rosemarie, implying previous time travel missions.

Anders

A character or entity that nearly killed Ash Kinley, leading her to realize there are "bigger monsters than her father." This suggests Anders is a significant and dangerous threat in her world.

Angelo Weis

Julian's Maker, a powerful and dangerous Transcendent who was obsessed with Cassandra.

Anima

An ancient concept referring to the living spirit or soul of the earth itself, representing the vital energy and aliveness inherent in the natural world, from which some characters draw sustenance.

Annihilation

The destruction of a soul through overfeeding by a Transcendent. The victim becomes a numb, will-less creature and is permanently removed from the great cycle of life. It is considered a terrible crime, far worse than murder, and is forbidden by the Black Rose Society's laws.

Annwn

The Otherworld. A retreat for Fae and dragons.

Anorexic Horror

A dirt-caked creature, reduced to skin and bone by starvation, pursuing a young girl.

Antikythera Mechanism

A real-life ancient Greek clockwork mechanism that inspired the chronomichani in the story. It was destroyed millennia ago in a shipwreck.

Apega

Nabis's sour-faced wife. Also the name of a spiked mannequin Nabis uses to torture supplicants.

Apega mannequin

A spiked mannequin used by Nabis to torture supplicants, invented by Callisto. It is a symbol of Nabis's cruelty.

Arba Minch

A small city east of the Omo Valley in Ethiopia, the destination of Tyler's charter flight.

Arbroath

Rosemarie's birthplace and a hill fortress in Pictland, near the quarry where dragons are working.

Ars Duellica

The fighting art of the Knights of Rome, founded by Aristarchus of Ostia. It involves proven combat techniques, often tested by gladiators. Henry Cobo is a master of this art.

Ash Kinley

Ash Kinley begins her story as a high school senior seeking a fresh start in the remote woods of Corby, accompanied only by her beloved dogs, after escaping a personal tragedy. Despite being an outsider in the mysterious town, she soon discovers she possesses a unique and astonishing power, compelling her to confront a terrifying enemy lurking in the dark forest. As she navigates this dangerous new world, Ash is driven by a deep loyalty to her animal companions and her fierce determination to protect those around her, all while slowly unraveling the shocking secrets surrounding her own birth and identity.

Ash's Cabin

A remote cabin in the woods where Ash Kinley lives.

Assault Rifle

A weapon carried by Ash and the Svartr, acquired from Gríma's crew.

Athanasia Table

A stone table with carved wells shaped to host a human body, used by Rowan in her immortality experiments. It is where subjects like Addison receive necromantic infusions.

Athenians

The inhabitants of Athens, characterized by their emphasis on monuments and fleets, and a society with distinct social classes and restrictions on citizenship.

Athens

A crowded Greek city with a vast population, known for its monuments and fleets, and distinct social classes.

Attic peninsula

A Greek peninsula that a ship sails around to reach Brauron.

Attica

The territory around Athens, also home to the Sanctuary of Artemis in Brauron.

Augustin Kryštof

The host of the Bílý Vlk chateau in the Czech Republic. He is the last of his vampiric cohort and is affiliated with the League of Alms, a charity organization. He is described as having the "biggest heart." A character who helps fight undead intruders and interacts with a glowing circle in a laboratory.

Ava

Tyler's compassionate metaphysical therapist in Quito, who helps him recover from a traumatic time jump. She is understanding and skilled in healing the soul.

Ax

A versatile cutting and striking weapon wielded by Tyler, suitable for both combat and practical wilderness survival.

Ayana

An Ethiopian woman Tyler meets at the Paradise Lodge, described as a "beautiful flower" and a Hwedoist. She is later revealed to be one of Tyler's guides and a key figure in his transformation. She is Tyler's former partner from his Hwedoist training, exotic and resourceful with deep understanding of ancient traditions and a strong bond with Tyler.

Barberg

A Norse town with docks, from which a colony ship departs. Ash races to its docks fearing her dogs are aboard.

Beacon Stick

A personal belonging of Tyler that he usually carries, but is not allowed to take during certain time jumps. A specialized tool used by time travelers to signal their precise temporal and geographical location for retrieval, ensuring safe travel between time periods.

Bearbaiting

A cruel sport involving chaining a bear and having dogs attack it. It is popular in Renaissance England, but Hanna dislikes it.

Bedrolls

Rolls of bedding that can also used as a practical tool for creating smoke signals, suggesting a resourceful and survivalist approach to communication in remote areas.

Ben (Professor Villalobos)

A loyal and supportive friend to Rosemarie, and a key figure in The Conservators. He is a knowledgeable professor who helps Rose navigate her altered timeline and understand her abilities.

Berserkir (Were)

Were cousins of the Ulfhednar who channel bear spirits instead of wolves. They tend to be loners and are known for being "unstoppable" in a fight. Clan Trenson is a Berserkir clan. Esben Holt is a Berserkir.

Betta Fish

A purple fish with long, billowing fins kept by Stefan's father. Stefan believes it might have been his father's new partner's idea.

Bílý Vlk (Chateau)

A Gothic chateau in the Czech Republic, Augustin Kryštof's home, where Emma completes her Transcendent transition and the Vera Gentis summit is held. It has crypts, a library, and views of Český Krumlov. A Gothic mansion where windows shatter due to a zombie attack.

Birr

Ethiopian currency, used in the form of gift cards by Tyler to bribe airport security.

Biscuit

A large, cream-colored Anatolian livestock guard dog weighing over 130 pounds. Biscuit stood vigil over Ash Kinley's adoptive father's body after his death.

Black Rose Society (BRS)

A society of Transcendent (vampires) who adhere to a hierarchy and specific rituals, such as the "blood embrace" and "thorn cradle." They have Nobles, Lords, Kings, and Queens based on their mastered "greater powers." They have two main laws: no unwilling elevation and no soul annihilation.

Black Rose Tattoo

A traditional tattoo received by new Society Nobles upon rebirth. It is placed over the heart and consists of black petals pulsing with blood-red veins (due to blazestone inks). It signifies membership and rank within the Black Rose Society (one rose for Nobles, two for Lords, three for Kings/Queens).

Blahblahtine

A memory-enhancing drug in pill form, also referred to as a "skunk pill," used by Emma's shrink to induce hypnotic regression and help her remember details about her past lives.

Blind

A term used by Gríma to refer to her home or origin, where certain behaviors (like marking territory with urine) would be considered crude, implying a more civilized society than the Norse Svartr.

Bliss

A narcotic released into the blood during conventus (the blood embrace) between Transcendent, leading to intense pleasure.

Blood Stock (Stock)

Healthy, consenting, and well-paid human individuals from whom Transcendent feed. Great care is taken to rotate them to avoid "annihilation" of their souls.

Bloodmates

A sacred Transcendent relationship, more profound than marriage, where two vampires share a mutual bite (conventus) to merge their bodies and souls, allowing them to feel each other's essence through their heartblaze rings. Julian and Cassandra are bloodmates.

Bloodwine

A special vintage wine made solely for the Transcendent. It is consumed for pleasure and provides a "tingly and excited" feeling, but does not offer sustenance; for that, feeding from a living being is required.

Blót

A ceremony performed by the Ulfhednar (Were) that bonds a wolf spirit to a human, allowing them to "invoke" the wolf. Stefan's blót was officiated by Neil Torp, the Summoner.

Blót Cave

The location of Corby's blóts.

Blue Dog

Emma's beloved stuffed animal, a blue dog, her "best friend" from childhood. Her mother left him with her when she went away.

Bollocks Dagger

A wide-bladed dagger, less than a foot in length. Its distinctive name comes from its handle, which is shaped to resemble a penis and testicles. Hanna carries one for self-defense.

Bow

A traditional projectile weapon, used by Lady Broicc and others to deliver ranged attacks.

Brauron

A port town and the location of the Sanctuary of Artemis, a refuge for Callisto and Eudoros. It is described as a rustic and somewhat abandoned community.

Breadcrumb method

A universal solution for navigating mazes, involving leaving a trail to avoid getting lost.

Broicc

Rosemarie's mother and a significant figure within the Draig clan, portrayed as a protective and influential elder. She holds a unique and important relationship with Rosemarie and carries a bow.

Bronze club

A corroded chunk of bronze found by Rosemarie, used as a weapon and to create a trail in the Fae labyrinth.

Bronze sword

Tyler's sword, inscribed with his fictional family's genealogy, which briefly flashes and changes design during a blood sacrifice.

Buckler

A small, round shield used by Tyler for defense in close combat, reflecting his agile fighting style.

Builders

Enigmatic creatures of Mortalos, suspected by some to be the Lord's angels or pagan gods, or even alien beings. They possess unique magic, possibly technological in nature, and have bodies that can be killed. Tunnel Builder is one of them.

Burlington

A city where a paranormal-friendly doctor is located, to whom Stefan wants to take Tyler.

Cain

Corby's summoner.

Cait

A kingdom in Pictland, near Rosemarie's tribe, the Draig, and the location of Dragon's Nest and the cornerstone of their future castle.

Callisto

A brilliant and talented inventor, initially enslaved by Nabis. She is compassionate and resourceful, with a unique ability to heal souls and build complex machines. Her primary motivation is her brother's freedom.

Cardiff

The city where Tyler got a dragon tattoo after a drunken night.

Cassandra Cross

Cassandra Cross is the significant past incarnation of Emma Rue, deeply connected to the present-day protagonist through a soulmate bond with the ancient vampire Julian St. Fleur. She was a powerful vampire noble with the rare ability of soulsight, which evolved into soulreading, making her a formidable figure within the Black Rose Society. Known for her captivating and ancient soul, Cassandra lived a life of intrigue and romance, marked by her profound love for Julian and a complicated history that also involved Stefan Hildebrand's past life. Her life, though centuries past, continues to influence Emma's present, as her experiences and secrets are gradually uncovered. Cassandra's story is one of enduring love, unique power, and tragic circumstances, setting the stage for Emma's modern-day challenges.

Celia

Ash's former friend in Corby who became jealous of Ash's relationship with Stefan. She is manipulative and tries to steal Stefan away from Ash.

Celtic knots

The design of the tail of Tyler's dragon tattoo.

Cerberus (Cerbie)

Ash Kinley's brave Anatolian pup with a white, fluffy head, trained to be a livestock guard dog. He was the runt of his litter.

Český Krumlov

An authentic medieval town and sprawling castle visible from the library at Bílý Vlk.

Cetus

A gigantic, serpentine sea monster, hundreds of feet long with iridescent coils. It is a powerful constrictor and formidable aquatic predator.

Chain Saws

Traditional weapons of the Gray Wolves, reflecting their logging heritage. These powerful tools are adapted for combat by the Were.

Chronomichani

An ancient mechanical calendar with the soul of an evil dragon, responsible for manipulating time and causing suffering. The primary target of The Conservators. Also described as a clockwork mechanism from Greek antiquity, given to Alexander Argyros by his father, that drains blood from its user.

Cilician pirates

Pirates from Cilicia who attack the ship Tyler is on, known for their ruthlessness and practice of selling captives as slaves.

Clan Corby

Stefan Hildebrand's Ulfhednar clan, based in Corby, Vermont. They are descended from Northmen and emphasize clan cohesion. They are led by Stefan's father.

Clan Trenson

A Berserkir clan that runs a copper mine in the tiny town of Trenson, northern Maine. They are known for eating human meat and are more stubborn than wolves. Esben Holt is from this clan.

Cliffside

Rowan's favorite home in Mortalos, an ancient home carved into a cliff in the Andean jungle. It contains her nightfall room, spellchamber, channeling room, and Hall of Aspirants.

Clive Anderson

Another farmer who purchased a hog from Ash Kinley's adoptive father. He gave Cerberus to Ash Kinley's family as a bonus, introducing Cerberus into Ash Kinley's life.

Clockwork Bear

A mechanical creature with razor teeth and burning eyes encountered in a tunnel.

Clockwork Hound

A mechanical dog-like creature with glowing coal eyes, made of molten brass, that steam pours from its mouth.

Club

A weapon pulled by the slavemaster from a leather loop at his side, used to enforce rules and threaten slaves.

Codex

An ancient manuscript or bound book, typically containing historical records or mystical knowledge, which Rosemarie discovers and studies in the Academy archives.

Cognitive Processing Therapy

A form of psychological treatment mentioned in the context of Rosemarie's institutionalization, aimed at addressing her "delusions" through conventional means.

Columbian Printing Press

A remarkable new hand press invented by George Clymer, capable of printing an entire newspaper page with one pull of a handle. Angelo considers investing in its expansion.

Community Shelter

A place where characters like Randid teach classes and where outsiders might be brought. It serves as a gathering point for the Were community.

Concord

A place mentioned in relation to Julian's father's travels.

Conflux

A rare event where the "threads of fate" cross, binding two or three souls together. It attracts the attention of powerful creatures from the nine worlds. Stefan's soul is bound with a great conflux.

Coptic Church

Old-school Egyptian Christians who are said to have killed and enshrined a dragon's bones as a warning against evil. Their shrine was later destroyed by the Hwedoists.

Corby

A small logging town located six miles from Ash Kinley's farm. It is the primary territory of the Were community, and Ash Kinley is the only outsider allowed within its bounds. Many of its townsfolk are werewolves. It is also where Ash ran to with her dogs and the home of Clan Corby, led by Stefan. In some timelines, it is found to be missing or never built.

The town in Vermont where Stefan Hildebrand's Ulfhednar clan, Clan Corby, resides. It is a logging town. It has a new bar called Sawdust and a new Summoner, Cain Solberg.

Corinth

A Greek city that serves as a meeting point for trade and political discussions, and a destination for Tyler and Rosemarie.

Corn Maiden

A figure in a three-mile-long mural along a levee wall.

Cosmo

A cocktail Tyler wishes to drink at the airport lounge.

Crash cube

The crash cube is a small, lightweight metal cube, approximately four inches on each side, made from a unique, unearthly substance jokingly called "unobtainium." It is a protective device designed for Specta Aeternal (SA) agents to safeguard them during problematic time jumps, especially if they lose consciousness. When activated, the agent's physical body remains unconscious (often in the "real world"), while their mind remains aware within an illusory avatar inside the cube. The cube features three crystal spheres—red, green, and blue—that monitor the health of the agent's mind, soul, and body, respectively. In severe cases of injury or when the body dies, the cube transmits a distress beacon to allow other SA agents to recover the mind and potentially transfer it to a new body, preventing the agent from being permanently lost or descending into madness. It is typically issued to students in their second year at the Time Academy and is humorously described as trapping the agent "like a genie in a bottle." Agents cannot use their powers while within a crash cube.

Crete

A large Greek island south of the Cyclades, used as a landmark for navigation by the ship.

Crossbow

A weapon carried by a native male Svartr in the Wolflands. Its crosspiece is made of a green metal unfamiliar to Gríma.

Crystal Claws

Unique and potent weapons worn by Tyler, possibly part of his dracoform abilities, capable of withstanding extreme forces like dragon fire. Formed from the shed foreclaws of Aido-Hwedo and provide enhanced strength, protected from time corrections.

Cuxa Cloisters

The New York Cuxa Cloisters are a location notable for a beautiful pink marble column. Rowan, experiencing an exquisite sense of touch, perceives it as a place for a final indulgence and senses that the marble itself seems to convey a message from the past.

Cyclades

A group of Greek islands in the Aegean Sea, south of which the ship travels to avoid a slaving hub.

Cynthia Greene

A servant of Rowan, tasked with finding Emma Rue and the dagger Síndóm. In life, she worked for Child Protective Services and had a cruel nature. A ghost who can inhabit and influence the minds of others.

Dad (Ash Kinley's Adoptive Father)

Ash Kinley's deceased adoptive father. He was a farmer with a harsh demeanor who believed in hard work over play. He brought Cerberus home as a bonus from another farmer.

Dagger

A weapon with an ivory and gold sheath, stolen by Callisto from Nabis, used to pay for passage on a ship.

Dark Elves

The Dökkálfar. Creatures mentioned as having come to the New World along with the Svartr.

Deincarnation

The process of imprisoning a soul, typically within a "soul cage," preventing it from escaping the cycle of life and reincarnating. It is considered a fate worse than death by the Knights of Rome.

Defender

Stefan's wolf.

Delos

A notorious slaving hub in the Cyclades that the ship avoids.

Delphi

A Greek religious community built into the side of a mountain, home to the Temple of Apollo and the Pythia, the Oracle of Delphi.

Devourer

A mysterious item that Stefan and Ash consider trying to steal from Helheim.

Diolkos

A stone road used to transport goods and ships across the isthmus connecting the Saronic Gulf and the Gulf of Corinth.

Dipylon Gate

The city's main gate in Athens, a series of two separate bronze-clad gates.

Dock

The area where slaves gut fish and ships arrive. Stefan works here as a slave before being freed. It is connected to the longhouse and the pit where slaves are kept at night.

Dodecanese isles

A group of islands near Rhodes, part of the Mediterranean Sea.

Dogs (Ash's)

Ash's dogs, who killed her father, leading her to run away to Corby to protect them from the police. Ash believes they may have also crossed the time rift and are somewhere in the past.

Dökkálfar

The dark elves, or fae beneath the earth, who have an alliance with the Svartr. Their tongues, when eaten, grant the ability to speak multiple languages.

Dolphins

Intelligent marine mammals that escort Tyler's ship, symbolizing a connection to the sea and perhaps a benevolent presence.

Dornodech

Rosemarie's father and the chief of the Draig clan, he is a dragon mage and figure of authority with deep traditional knowledge, responsible for protecting his people and their dragons.

Doves

Birds that flutter in the palace, startled by the screams of Nabis's torture victims.

Dr. Stert (Rick Stert / Trickster)

A doctor at Rhode Island Hospital who treats Stefan Hildebrand. He is later revealed to be the "Trickster," a troublesome godling and child of Loki, who has taken an interest in Stefan and granted him shifting abilities.

Draco Historia

A text or scroll that mentions a dragon shifter, possibly Tyler.

Dracoform

A type of Were that can shift into a dragon. A unique classification for individuals like Tyler who can transform into dragons or serve as companions and protectors of dragons. Also refers to a physical manifestation of a dragon's soul capable of working with humans to haul stone.

Dracoform Skin

The waxy, hot skin of Tyler.

Dragon

Ancient, powerful, and often fearsome creatures. They possess immense power, including flight and fire-breathing, and are both revered and hunted. Some are in a state of deep slumber.

Dragon Blood (substance)

A substance contained in a silver syringe that Ayana intends to inject into Tyler, believed to transform him into a dragon.

Dragon's Nest

A specific, elevated location, likely a cave or mountain lair, where dragons reside. It serves as a vantage point or refuge for the main characters. Rosemarie's childhood hideout in Cait, a mountain top with a rock formation and the location of the cornerstone of their future castle.

Draig

Rosemarie's ancient clan in Pictland, known for their deep spiritual connection to and protection of dragons. They follow matriarchal leadership, with female bloodlines determining their rulers.

Draíocht

An Irish term for a spell or magic, often whispered. Rowan uses draíocht to light candles, banish pain, and calm her nerves.

Drustan

An innocent child living near Hadrian's Wall, helpful and resourceful, leading Tyler and Rosemarie to his Roman father. He represents the civilian perspective on the conflict between Romans and dragons.

Eagle

A bird of prey seen in the Hellenic landscape, also a symbol associated with Rosemarie's eagle tattoo.

Éire

Ireland.

Elafonisos

An island that marks the entry into the Laconian Gulf, providing protection from storms.

Élan / Elan

Élan is a natural force or energy that flows through a person, making them feel stronger and causing a surge of euphoria. It is especially potent when traveling on ley lines, which allows for significantly faster movement.

Electroconvulsive Therapy

A medical procedure used on Rosemarie during her institutionalization, which had the side effect of damaging her memories, contributing to her fragmented past.

Electroshock

A method used by Lucrecia, in conjunction with herbal brews, to help individuals invoke their wolf form. This suggests a more unconventional or forceful approach to transformation.

Eleusis

A port town and holy site where people go to make sacrifices to Demeter and Hades.

Elin

Elin is Stefan's former girlfriend from Corby who is believed to have gone feral after he left for college.

Elizabeth

Marion Broadwell's wife, who was "taken" by Julian half a century ago. Julian built an addition to Refuge d'Amoureux for her.

Emerald Mentor

Lagashan, one of Tyler's three mentors in the temple, who is a tiny middle-aged Ethiopian woman with fiery dragon eyes.

Emma Rue

Emma Rue is a nineteen-year-old who has just begun college, having grown up within the foster care system. She possesses a unique and secret power called soulsight, an ability she's had since childhood that allows her to look directly into people's souls, which unfortunately causes some to fear and even hate her. Despite seeking a fresh start and wanting to keep her ability hidden, her life is complicated by vivid dreams about a vampire soulmate from a past life, specifically her life as Cassandra Cross, who has waited two hundred years to find her. Due to her secret power and past connections, Emma is relentlessly hunted by an elite army of paranormal hunters known as the Knights of Rome (KoR). She is characterized by her resilience and determination as she searches for her soulmate and uncovers startling secrets about her past, all while being deeply caring and protective of her friends and loved ones, such as her mentor Melita and her young friend Kaya.

Eratosthenes

A brilliant Greek mathematician and geographer, head of the Great Library of Alexandria. He is knowledgeable and helpful, providing crucial information and a map to Tyler and Rosemarie.

Eric Bloodaxe

A Viking warrior sent into the past by Gríma with a gun and gunsmiths to create a Viking army. He leaves a distinct trail and his fate in the past is unknown, causing Gríma to track him.

Esben Holt

A Berserkir from Clan Trenson, described as a "big dude" with scars. He was formerly Marion Broadwell's guard and is chosen as Trenson's ambassador to Vera Gentis. He carries medieval-style war hammers and is Trenson's version of a diplomat. A giant werebear who uses twin hammers as weapons. He is formidable in combat.

Ethiopian Airlines

An airline with a daily flight to Arba Minch.

Eudoros

Callisto's brother, a prisoner with a kind but fearful demeanor. He is initially emaciated and traumatized, but his hope is rekindled by the prospect of freedom and reuniting with his sister.

Eurotas

A river that flows past Sparta and down into the Laconian Gulf, used as a navigation point.

Eventide

Eventide is a city-like stronghold located within Helheim, which is described as the land of the dead existing outside of normal time. It is considered a "fringe city" within this afterlife realm. The city is dominated by a massive castle made of glassy, dark stone, possibly obsidian, radiating a strange sense of peace that can make visitors feel sleepy. Eventide features an artificial sky filled with hundreds of stars that form no recognizable constellations, and its "un-sun" causes shadows to stretch towards it rather than away. It houses the Library of Existence, a vast collection of books concerning the nature and meaning of existence. Eventide is ruled by Lord Aud, a powerful godling, and its inhabitants are the dead who, after their mortal lives, come to learn from their past mistakes and pursue a deeper understanding of the world. These residents, known as Apostles of Enlightenment, wear black robes and engage in practices like communal living, eating, and sleeping to aid their philosophical work. Living beings are not permitted to stay indefinitely; they must either leave or die and become permanent residents. Eventide is also known to house significant artifacts

Eydís

Eydís is a young volur, a type of female witch and adept prophetess, among the Svartr people. She is known for her prophecies and is considered a rising power, with the older Nine Weavers fearing her eventual replacement of them. Eydís holds a strong conviction that Queen Gráma's actions could trigger Ragnarök, the end of the world.

Fae

Magical, elven races. Rowan was adopted by a Fae tribe, and Morvyth is one-quarter Fae. Síndóm is described as a Fae weapon.

Faecast Rifles

Rifles made by the Dark Elves and used by the Svartr.

Farm

Ash Kinley's home, where she lives alone with her dogs after a family tragedy. It is a secluded property in the woods, six miles from Corby, and the site of various attacks and discoveries.

Fenfang

Tyler's time mentor, who travels to the temple each month to look for him and can take him back in time. Fenfang also refers to an extinct desert flower (Fenfangeae).

Fenfangeae

An ancient desert flower, extinct by the Age of Man, which Fenfang tasks Tyler to find in 1400 BCE.

Ferch

Rosemarie's original identity from her early life in ancient Pictland, representing her wild, untamed nature before her memories were fragmented. This name embodies her connection to her family and tribal heritage.

First Horseman

A title or designation for the leader of a menacing group encountered by Rosemarie and Tyler, implying a position of significant power and danger.

Fish

Aquatic creatures that serve as food for Tyler in dragon form, and are also genetically engineered to glow in the Conservators' aquatic farm.

Fjord

A body of water with sharply pointed mountains on both sides. Stefan walks upstream along it after being guided by native men. There's a layer of mist over its dark blue waters in the morning.

Florida

The US state where Tyler began as a treasure hunter, finding a gold doubloon after a hurricane.

Forge Mountain

An active volcano with gray smoke rising from its summit. It casts an unnatural shadow. The Norse Svartr guide Gríma's group to its south side, where a high cliff has been carved into a large space.

Fort Adams

The New England regional headquarters for the Knights of Rome in Newport, Rhode Island. It is a historic attraction publicly, but secretly houses KoR operations, including soul cages and training facilities (ludus).

Fortunata Golde

A Knight of Rome with a surly attitude, who is jealous of Stefan's advancement within the KoR.

Fretterat

Fretterat is a Sami man, characterized as a legendary guide and hunter. He is described as short and thin, in his mid-fifties, with wild gray eyebrows and thinning dark hair, and large brown eyes.

Funerary Mask

Rowan's adoptive Fae mother's mask, crafted years before her death and given to Rowan. It is a handcrafted masterpiece of twisting leaves and moss, preserved by Fae magic. Rowan wears it to show she is Fae at heart.

Gammachu

Tyler's fight mentor, described as a fat Ethiopian man in his sixties with orange eyes.

Garden of Night

The Garden of Night is a unique and serene location found high within the castle spires of Eventide. Accessible via a suspended walkway seventy feet above the ground, it offers a tranquil escape under an artificial night sky, twinkling with hundreds of unfamiliar stars.

Gargoyles

Statue-like creatures mentioned as part of the architecture within the Academy archives, adding to the mysterious and potentially dangerous atmosphere of the hidden library.

Gemstone Dragon Sculpture

A decorative or ceremonial artifact shaped like a dragon, displayed within a significant location such as a temple or academy chamber.

Georgios of Lydda

Saint George himself, and Alexander Argyros's direct ancestor. A historical or legendary figure known for his association with slaying a dragon.

Giants

Creatures described as being the height of two or three men, wearing animal skins. They possess long noses, small eyes, and bird-nest-like hair, wield clubs, and are characterized by their eagerness to eat humans.

Gigglemeister

A playful nickname Emma gives to Kaya due to her habit of creating odd and embarrassing songs and her cheerful nature.

Glamour

A Fae ability that affects the mind, causing people to see or hear things that aren't there or feel engineered emotions.

Glasspad

A futuristic electronic device, similar to a tablet, used by students and agents within the Academy to access educational materials and navigate restricted areas like the archives.

Glock

Stefan's handgun.

Glock 22

An unregistered handgun that Alexander Argyros opts to wield on his mission.

Goats

Common livestock in Ancient Greece, particularly in Amykles, used for milk, cheese, wool, meat, and skins. They are also noted for their bleating as a warning system.

Godling

A child of a god. The Trickster is identified as a troublesome godling, a child of Loki, who seeks to exercise his powers through Stefan's body.

Going Feral

A term used to describe a Were who loses their mind, invokes their wolf, and permanently retreats into the woods, never to return. This state can be triggered by insanity or severe duress.

Golden Geese

Geese that lay golden eggs every decade. They are valuable in themselves and have a far greater collector's value. Rowan gifts them to her Imperial Coven members.

Goose Temple

A sunken ancient human temple buried deep in the Himalayas, under lava and volcanic ash. It serves as a meeting place for Rowan's Imperial Coven, accessible via a gold-plated spiral staircase and a giant lotus blossom entrance.

Great Rift Valley

A location south of the lake where Lagashan allows Tyler to fly, offering stunning views.

Gríma

Queen of the Canadian Svartr, a powerful and ruthless leader who seeks to unleash Ragnarök and enslave Corby. She was humiliated by Ash and wants revenge. She carries an assault rifle and has a black mask around her eyes, retouched with charcoal by a vigrvarg. She is a sorceress with great talent and skills. She is also a powerful witch who previously took over Stefan's body and attempted to kill Ash, and is responsible for introducing guns to the Norse world and potentially altering the timeline.

Grounded

A Magi technology that prevents an SA agent's body and memories from being reshaped or erased by a time correction, even if their birth is prevented.

Gudrun

Gudrun is a Norse woman with long blond hair and green eyes who serves as a key ally to Stefan Hildebrand during his time in a medieval Norse village. She possesses the "power of tongues," a universal translation ability.

Gulf of Corinth

A gulf north of Corinth, connected to the Saronic Gulf by an isthmus.

Gulf of Eleusis

A gulf that Tyler's ship crosses during its departure from Eleusis.

Gun

A powerful and terrifying anachronistic projectile weapon introduced by the Romans, representing a significant technological and destructive threat to both humans and dragons.

A weapon given by Gríma to Eric Bloodaxe, along with gunsmiths, to help him create a Viking army with guns. Gríma's Svartr also use rifles given to them for the Fort Adams battle.

Gurgos

A fat former Olympic champion in Pankration, now serving Nabis as a gatekeeper. He is arrogant and enjoys his position of minor power.

Gutenberg Bible

A large, valuable book, one of the first printed via movable type (15th/16th century). Emma finds one in the Bílý Vlk library and it triggers a connection to Hanna's past life.

Gythion

A port city in the Peloponnese, south of Sparta, serving as a key point for sea travel and trade.

Hadrian's Wall

A historical Roman defensive fortification in Great Britain, serving as a significant geographical landmark marking the boundary of Roman influence.

Hal

Hanna Dorrholtz's fencing student.

Hanna Dorrholtz (Hanns)

Emma Rue's past life incarnation in Renaissance England. She is a young German girl forced by her father to live as a boy, "Hanns," and train in fencing. She attends grammar school in Harrow and becomes a member of the Order of the Lizard. She later becomes a fencing instructor for Prince Henry Tudor.

Hare

A small mammal observed munching on plants near Dragon's Nest, part of the Highland wildlife.

Harmony

A little girl found by Larkin (Emma) who is numb and divorced from her emotions due to her experiences.

Harpy

A creature with the lower body of a powerful reptilian bird with talons, and the head and breasts of a Fae female with frizzy brown hair, pointed ears, and long yellow fangs.

Heartblaze Ring

A ring traditionally worn by bloodmates of the Black Rose Society. It contains a blazestone gem that absorbs a fraction of the wearer's and their bloodmate's essence, allowing them to see the state of their bloodmate's soul. Emma and Julian wear these rings.

Heartstone

A glowing object that Tempus gives to Ash Kinley. It is later shoved into a leather pouch, suggesting it is an item of significance, possibly with magical properties or a connection to the Were world. It is also a strange stone pulled from Gríma's pocket that causes water in ice fountains to boil and smoke, and can instantly freeze meat dipped into it. A stone given to Ash by the goddess Skadi, lost in battle with Gríma.

Hellas

The ancient name for Greece, a land of rival city-states and colonies, described as a place of both misery and majesty.

Helheim

A nightmarish version of a forest and a destination for Ash and Stefan, where the Devourer is located.

Henry Cobo

Stefan's master and the greatest Artufex (master of Ars Duellica) in the Knights of Rome. He serves as a mentor figure to Stefan.

Heraean Games

Women's athletic competitions held at Olympia, dedicated to the goddess Hera.

Herbal Brews

Concoctions made from herbs by characters like Lucrecia, used to aid individuals in invoking their wolf form. These brews are part of the Were community's traditional practices.

Herm

A stone statue consisting of a carved bust of a man's head atop a tall stone block, with a carved dick and balls, used for protection and to mark boundaries.

Highlands

A vast, rugged region, likely referring to the Scottish Highlands, where Rosemarie's clan resided and where many dragons were said to dwell, often in a state of slumber.

Hippias

One of Eudoros's friends in prison, who is easily frightened and reluctant to face danger. He represents the despair of the long-term captives.

Hounds

Enormous, fierce dogs chained to the temple doors of Artemis, trained to guard the sanctuary and react aggressively to perceived threats, especially those with a dragon scent.

Hubris

Excessive pride or arrogance, a concept in Greek religion that can lead to divine punishment.

Hudson

A New York river near Cuxa Cloisters.

Hunfrid Gurker

A "disreputable art dealer" with whom Julian has done business. He provides Julian with Síndóm. An art dealer from whom Julian purchased the Fae dagger, Síndóm, as a gift for Cassandra.

Hwedo Hill

Tyler's name for the hill that houses the underground temple, as it has no official name.

Hwedoist

Followers of Aido-Hwedo, who include Ayana and the temple mentors. A group or cult with whom Tyler underwent training, learning various skills including time travel and transformation. They are viewed as "barbarian cultists" by some, indicating their unconventional practices and beliefs.

Ice Fountain

A fountain made of ice in a large room with ice benches and windows. Its water does not freeze and it boils/smokes when something is dipped into it.

Ice Vargr

Lupine creatures mentioned in relation to a shrine and a fountain with unusual, non-frozen water. They are implied to be dangerous and associated with frost giants.

Idun's Apples

Norse artifacts that provide rejuvenation or immortality.

Imperial Coven

Rowan's powerful coven, consisting of thirteen witches specializing in various types of magic. They meet at Goose Temple and are led by Rowan as their Empress. They are given golden geese as gifts.

Injera

A type of Ethiopian flatbread, part of the meal thrown for Tyler's first successful jump into the past.

Invoke

The act of calling upon or transforming into one's wolf form or abilities. Both Ash and Stefan use this ability to heighten their senses or prepare for conflict. Also refers to the act of transforming into wolf form for Weres.

Ionian Sea

The sea west of the Peloponnese.

Iron Collar

A restraining device worn around Stefan's neck while he is enslaved. It is removed by the village smith.

Iron Eagle

An artfully designed iron eagle that serves as a counterweight on the Columbian printing press. It clutches symbols of Jove, peace, and plenty, and Cassandra muses it might develop a soul.

Jackal

A wild canine observed in the dry Hellenic terrain.

JAFR

Just another fucking rock. An acronym for something Tyler was searching for, but it was a "huge waste of time".

Julian St. Fleur

Julian St. Fleur is an ancient and powerful vampire, Emma Rue's soulmate from a past life as Cassandra Cross, for whom he has waited two centuries to be reunited in the modern world. He is an enigmatic and formidable Transcendent, possessing unique artistic talents and a profound, enduring love for Emma that transcends time and death. Their long-awaited reunion is complicated by his own mysterious past and the relentless pursuit of powerful paranormal hunters who also target Emma.

Karolína

Karolína Votavov is a vampire and a biogeographer, specializing in zoogeography and phytogeography. She has graying blond hair and intense blue eyes, and is known for her cranky, sarcastic, and patronizing demeanor. She is proficient in old-school mapping and navigation methods, using topographic maps, books, and a compass, as modern technology tends to malfunction around vampires.

Kaya

Melita's youngest daughter, a precocious five-year-old who is close to Emma. She is vulnerable to psychic manipulation by ghosts like Cynthia Greene due to her imaginative nature.

Kenchreai

One of the port cities that serves Corinth, located on the Saronic Gulf.

Kerameikos

The potters' district in Athens.

King Talorc

A powerful Pictish ruler who harbors resentment and fear towards the Draig clan and the dragons they protect. His actions are driven by a desire to consolidate his own power and eliminate perceived threats.

Kirra

The port city that serves Delphi, located in a bay stretching from the Gulf of Corinth.

Kitfo

A traditional Ethiopian dish made of raw hamburger soaked in butter and spices, served with cheese and flatbread.

Knights of Rome (KoR)

An ancient, secretive army dedicated to hunting and killing paranormals. They have been active since the reign of Roman emperor Constantine the Great.

Laconian Gulf

A gulf in the southern Peloponnese, leading to Gythion, where the ship seeks refuge from a storm.

Lagashan

Tyler's Emerald Mentor, a small Ethiopian woman who teaches him how to be a dragon, including how to fly. She is a tiny middle-aged Ethiopian woman with fiery dragon eyes.

Lake Tana

A lake in Ethiopia, which Tyler pretends to know about to avoid suspicion at the airport.

Lance

A long, pole-mounted weapon typically used by cavalry, famously depicted as the weapon used by Georgios of Lydda to slay a dragon, symbolizing heroism and conquest.

Language bug

A device or technology that translates spoken language, allowing Tyler and Rosemarie to understand and speak ancient Greek.

League of Alms

A charity organization with which Augustin Kryštof, the host of Bílý Vlk, is affiliated. He is described as having the "biggest heart."

League of Brush and Quill

A Transcendent organization dedicated to the arts, which Julian and Cassandra were part of. They created the Love Library in Prague.

Lebanon

A country where a Roman payroll stash is located, one of Lord Beasley's potential gigs for Tyler.

Lechaion

Corinth's northern port, located a few miles west of Corinth.

Leopard

An animal depicted in a floor mosaic at Nabis's Athens villa, symbolizing strength or prestige.

Ley Line

A mystical or energetic path used for travel, allowing Gríma and her warriors to quickly find Forge Mountain.

Library (Academy Archives)

A vast, hidden underground repository within the Time Academy, containing ancient and magical texts and scrolls, crucial for research and uncovering historical truths.

Livestock Guard Dog

A type of working dog, like Cerberus, trained to protect farm animals from predators.

Lorance Sparkes

The Governor of the Black Rose Society's New England Domain, and a powerful soulreader. He is a Lord (two black roses) and the Ruler of the North American Realm. He takes a special interest in Emma/Cassandra and later founds Vera Gentis. He has a cohort in Newport and is Emma's primary guide in the Transcendent world. A vampire with talents best used in the chateau. He does not enjoy flying and prefers the Shadowliner.

Lord Beasley

Tyler's high-paying boss and patron, an armchair archaeologist with an illegal collection of relics.

Love Library

A heart-shaped chamber in Prague Castle, a creation of the League of Brush and Quill. It contains hundreds of books telling love stories and is where Julian and Emma meet in Memoria.

Lucky

One of Ash's lost dogs.

Magefire

A type of magical fire that churns inside glass globes, used for lighting spellchambers and temples. It can be balanced to match the shade of the midday sun.

Magnus

A member of Clan Corby known for having a "big mouth" and being the best tracker in Corby, with a great nose and gifted eye for tracking. He assists Stefan in tracking Ash.

Mahna

A powerful woman, formerly Gudrun's apprentice, who possesses enormous talent and skills beyond Gudrun's. She frees Stefan from slavery and gives him a false backstory to help him secure his place in her village. Gudrun warns that Mahna's heart "is a hollow space crawling with spiders," indicating her untrustworthy and power-hungry nature.

Mallet

A weapon yielded by Esben Holt.

Marion Broadwell

An old man living in a Swiss-style castle adjacent to Refuge d'Amoureux. He is Elizabeth's husband and warns Stefan about Julian, whom he identifies as a vampire. He dies two days before Esben Holt is reassigned.

Mark Territory

The act of urinating to claim an area, a behavior common among the Norse Svartr but considered crude by Gríma.

Mazaa

A Aido-Hwedo dracoform who assists Tyler and Rosemarie with practical matters, such as securing them on a dragon for flight.

Melita Medeja

Emma's mentor and best friend from the Big Sisters program. She works at The Athenaeum and is a caring, supportive figure in Emma's life, raising her two daughters. She is relocated by the Black Rose Society for her safety.

Melite

A district in Athens.

Memoria

Julian's term for the metaphysical space where he exists after being struck by Síndóm. It is a collection of his memories, not a physical place, and Emma can visit him there. A phantom world made of memories where Emma's soul is trapped with Julian.

Mending Glyphs

Glyphs formed in the mind's eye and spoken in Latin, used for healing wounds (e.g., Rowan's hand) or sealing flesh (e.g., the cook's lips).

Merlin

A legendary Arthurian mage.

Metamorphosis

The ability of Transcendent to transform their bodies, mostly in small ways, to disguise themselves. Julian uses this to appear as Richard Sinclair. It is a "greater power" for some Transcendent.

Metastream

A passageway for newly freed souls to travel to the Afterworld and then return to Mortalos to claim new bodies. It was created by the Tunnel Builder at the beginning of the Age of Man, making reincarnation possible.

Metaverge

A realm of darkness where ghosts can be lost, described as an "eternity of darkness." It borders the Afterworld, and dead souls can speak with spiritists here. A place or state that Zivanka and Emma had a disastrous trip to.

Midgard

The mortal world, as referred to in Norse mythology. Troublesome godlings use it as their playground.

Midios

Another of Eudoros's friends in prison, who is also fearful but eventually follows the group into the maze. He is less vocal than Hippias but equally terrified.

Minch

A strait or body of water where a dramatic conflict unfolds involving a dragon attacking a ship, witnessed by Rosemarie and Tyler. Also a strait near Dragon's Nest, visible from the future castle's highest point.

Mind Doctor

A psychiatrist treating Rosemarie, representing the medical establishment's clinical and often misunderstanding approach to her unusual condition. He is focused on conventional treatments for her perceived delusions.

Minotaurs

Mythological creatures, half-human and half-bull, whose bones are found in the Fae labyrinth, suggesting their past presence or the maze's purpose as a containment area.

Modafinil

A "go pill" used by the Knights of Rome to stay awake for extended periods. Stefan takes one to drive through the night.

Mom (Ash's Mother)

Ash Kinley's biological mother, Brenda, whose disappearance is shrouded in mystery.

Mortalos

The mortal world, as referred to by the Transcendent and witches, in contrast to Velox or Som.

Moss on Trees

A navigation aid for Stefan in the woods, used to find directions.

Mount Cithaeron

A mountain that Tyler, Rosemarie, and Eudoros climb, leading to a prison crevasse.

Ms. Luvalle

A character who explains to Tyler that no time will pass in his present while he is in the sixth century for his Hwedoist training. Later appears as an authoritative yet guiding figure, a seasoned time traveler and recruiter for Specta Aeternal, knowledgeable about the complexities of time.

Nabis

The notorious and ruthless tyrant king of Sparta. He is cunning, pragmatic, and willing to use brutal methods to maintain his power and achieve his goals.

Nameless Legion

A formidable Roman military unit led by General Alexander Argyros, infamous for their campaign to eradicate dragons and their brutal actions against tribes like the Draig.

Necromantic Infusion

A cobalt fluid used in Rowan's immortality experiments, poured over the subject's body on the athanasia table.

Neil Torp

The Summoner and Elin's father. He is a key figure in the Were community, responsible for rituals and connections to the spirit world. His death or disapproval is a point of concern for Ash.

Newport

A city in Rhode Island, historically a lair for pirates and vampires, now a major KoR command center and home to many opulent mansions, including Refuge d'Amoureux and The Breakers. It is also a domain of the Black Rose Society.

Norns (The Fates)

Three old völva (Norse witches) who reside in tunnels under Trenson. They are said to weave the threads of fate and can interpret them. They are feared by both Were clans.

Norse

A cultural and mythological background for many characters and concepts in the story, including the Svartr, Gudrun, Mahna, Ragnarök, and various mythological figures. This theme influences the language, beliefs, and conflicts within the narrative.

Norse Settlement

A village with a dock and longhouse, where Stefan is held captive. It is here that he meets Mahna and her people.

Norse Svartr

A faction of the Svartr who seem less "civilized" than Gríma's group. They engage in behaviors like marking territory and are guided to a meeting at Forge Mountain.

Omo River Valley

A remote area in Ethiopia where Tyler is searching for dragon bones hidden in a lost Coptic shrine.

Order of the Lizard

A secret student organization at the chantry grammar school Hanna attends. It is typically for university men, but Hanna is granted an exception. Members perform an initiation ritual and are often friends into old age.

Orion constellation

A constellation mentioned in "Werewolf Undying" where the wolf's eye is missing.

Osterkligr

A derogatory term used by the Were, meaning "weak," referring to all those who are not Were (normal humans).

Otonia

A willowy woman with heavy makeup who serves at the Temple of Athena Chalkioikos. She is suspicious of strangers and performs religious duties.

Outer Kerameikos

An area just outside the city wall of Athens, lined with tombs.

Padded Jack

A type of padded armor used for training students in fencing, particularly when transitioning to sharps. Hanna wears it to hide her hips.

Panhellenic

Relating to all Greeks, or a sporting event involving all Greek city-states, such as the Pythian Games.

Pankration

A Greek style of grappling, an Olympic sport that combined wrestling and boxing.

Paradise Lodge

The hotel in Arba Minch where Tyler is staying and eats dinner.

Patras

A city whose couple helps Tyler and Rosemarie navigate Delphi.

Peloponnese

A large peninsula in southern Hellas (Greece), characterized by mountainous terrain, making overland travel difficult.

Pendant

A binding device given to Rosemarie by Ben at the Academy, which binds her memories to her soul, allowing them to remain intact even when the timeline changes.

Pendleton

Pendleton is described as a town in ruins, characterized by mostly collapsed buildings and tumbleweeds. The extensive damage suggests a past war or civil unrest. Despite its ruined state, people clearly live within its devastated shops and houses, often in areas converted from cells, with hundreds, possibly thousands, residing there, while others sleep in the outer ruins. A significant feature of Pendleton is its Undercity, a large underground area that was first built by Chinese railroad workers and later rebuilt. This subterranean region is home to segregated ethnic populations, including Asian, Hispanic, Black, and Native groups, who are noted for being more superstitious but also benefiting from more water and electricity than those living above ground. Within the Pendleton underground, there are also untraveled tunnels where "sin-eaters" consume mind-altering Psilo mushrooms.

Pérasma

A secret passage or tunnel, used to escape or navigate through a location discreetly.

Pheia

A port city on the western side of the Peloponnese, serving the city of Olympia, and a starting point for the journey to Eudoros's prison.

Philip

A godling student at the Academy known for being troublesome. Later becomes an arrogant and powerful SA field agent who wields his abilities with cruel disregard for others, making him a formidable antagonist.

Pictland / Pictavia

The ancient historical region, later known as Scotland, from which Rosemarie originates. It is a land deeply connected to magic, dragons, and tribal customs.

Piraeus

The port that serves Athens, consisting of three separate ports including one for military triremes.

Pit

A hole where slaves are forced to spend the night, located near the dock.

Platonic (Reference)

A philosophical reference made by Lorance, implying something is ideal or conceptual rather than physical, in the context of how living beings interact with the reflective plane of Velox.

Plymouth Harbor

The location where young Julian saw the ship he later carved a replica of, dreaming of escaping to England.

Pnyx

A hill in Athens where Nabis holds a meeting with dignitaries.

Politique

A Transcendent league involved in politics for many centuries, focused on shaping political discourse around issues of freedom and tolerance. Lorance Sparkes's cohort is affiliated with them.

Power of Tongues

An ability to understand and speak multiple languages, granted by consuming a "rubbery glob" believed to be the tongue of a dökkálfar (dark elf).

Prague

Described as the most beautiful Gothic city in the world. It is the location of the Love Library and the Vera Gentis summit. A city that is the destination for a journey.

Preceptor Ericka Stockhausen

The Base Commander of the Knights of Rome's New England regional headquarters at Fort Adams. She is stern and formal.

Professor Leeks

A KoR operative working as a college professor, who Emma attacks due to recognizing his "evil" soul.

Professor Southam

A helpful and knowledgeable academic at the Academy who assists Tyler and Rosemarie with their research, providing access to valuable resources and insights.

Promise Ring

A ring worn by Sebastian, given to him by his Transcendent girlfriend, Sarah.

Providence

The city where Emma Rue lives and attends college. It is also where Stefan (Micah) initially surveilled her. The Athenaeum is located here.

Proxenos

A Delphian who vouches for a petitioner's citizenship and provides housing, a requirement for seeing the Oracle.

Ptolemy

A pharaoh who sends soldiers to arrest visitors at the Great Library of Alexandria.

Pueblo

Tyler's mother's former residence in a "shitty apartment".

Quartermaster

The individual at Specta Aeternal headquarters responsible for providing agents with necessary equipment and supplies for their missions, maintaining order and efficiency.

Queen Dauphinais

The Queen of the Black Rose Society, a terrifying woman with gray, fierce eyes and wavy blond hair. She is a powerful Transcendent with three "greater powers": soulreading, metamorphosis, and traveling (Velox).

Quito, Ecuador

The location of Tyler's villa and the SA infirmary, chosen for its position at zero latitude which is believed to make time jumps easier.

Radiation Poisoning

A condition resulting from exposure to radiation. KoR experimented with using low-level radiation for tracking.

Ragnarök

The apocalyptic battle of the gods from Norse mythology, which Gríma aims to unleash.

Rainbow dragon

A type of dragon that shimmers with a riot of colors and is known for time jumping.

Randid

Randid is a Svartr woman characterized by her long gray hair. She serves as a teacher among her people, leading classes in a community shelter where she instructs students on "outsiders".

Rattle-Skull

A drink Julian's father consumed in the afternoons.

Red dragonfly

An insect seen flitting past Dragon's Nest in the Highland summer.

Refuge d'Amoureux

Cassandra and Julian's mansion in Newport, Rhode Island, which Julian had rebuilt by John Nash. In the present, it is a ramshackle, abandoned property where Julian has been in dormancy and Angelo was imprisoned. It is also adjacent to Shadow Breakers.

Reliquary

A small golden tube worn by Alexander Argyros, containing a bit of finger bone from Saint George.

Rewritten

A concept explaining when a person's life or history has been significantly altered or erased due to changes in the timeline, causing their past to be fundamentally different.

Rhodes

A Greek island and port city, known for the ruins of the Colossus. It is a major trading hub where Tyler and Rosemarie encounter pirates.

Richmond Palace

King Henry Tudor's opulent palace, where Hal and Hanna often meet for fencing and hunting. It has a garden with a sundial and a privy staircase.

Rifles

Advanced, anachronistic firearms introduced by Imperial Roman soldiers.

Roman Fortress

A fortified Roman military base, often integrated with structures like Hadrian's Wall, and repurposed or settled by local inhabitants after its original use.

Roman payroll stash

One of the gigs Lord Beasley offered Tyler, located near ruins in Turkey.

Rondel

A narrow dagger, less than a foot in length, used for piercing armor. Hanna carries one for self-defense.

Rosemarie Allen (Rose/Ferch)

Tyler's fierce and resourceful love interest, initially found in a mental institution with fragmented memories. She is a time traveler from the ancient Draig tribe in Pictland, with a mysterious past and strong survival instincts. Rosemarie possesses magical animal tattoos (fish, deer, horse, eagle) made with wyrm scales that grant her various enhanced abilities. Her original identity from Pictland was Ferch, daughter of chief Dornodech. She was also known as "wolf-girl" during her early wilderness existence.

Rowan (Empress of Witches)

An ancient and powerful "Empress of Witches" with an Irish accent. She commands ghostly servants and seeks the dagger Síndóm, which she claims was stolen from her. She conducts experiments to achieve immortality and leads the Imperial Coven. She is also known as "Rowan of Wildwood" and is a changeling from the Fae.

Royal Barge

A long, low boat used by the king, trimmed with shields and banners. Hanna is part of a ritual to urinate on it during an initiation.

Rubbery Glob

A small, rubbery substance, believed to be the tongue of a dökkálfar, that grants the "power of tongues" when consumed.

Ruby Mentor

One of Tyler's three mentors in the temple, who will teach him how to be a time traveler.

Runes

Bleeding symbols carved into Stefan's forearm by Mahna to bind his will, suggesting they are a form of magical control.

SA Headquarters

The central operational base of Specta Aeternal, where agents are debriefed, receive assignments, and are outfitted for their temporal missions.

Sacred Gate

A slightly smaller gate in Athens, leading to the Sacred Way.

Sacred Way

A wide cobbled road leading from Athens to the port town of Eleusis, lined with tombs.

Saint George

A saint who supposedly slew a dragon, mentioned in the Bible and in Alexander Argyros's thesis.

Salamis Island

An island that Tyler's ship navigates past during its departure from Eleusis.

Sanctuary of Apollo

A sacred area in Delphi with marble buildings and a great temple, home to the Pythia, the Oracle of Delphi.

Sanguine and Choleric

References to humors, indicating a strong, boyish disposition in Hanna, according to her father.

Sapphire Mentor

One of Tyler's three mentors in the temple, who will teach him how to be a fighter.

Sarcophage

A "flesh-eater," a rare side effect that occurs in people who have near-death experiences. Addison becomes one after Rowan's immortality experiment.

Saronic Gulf

A gulf south of Corinth, where the ship enters at night.

Scotland

The modern-day country that encompasses the historical region of Pictland, serving as Rosemarie's initial point of arrival in the contemporary era.

Seals

Marine mammals seen teeming on a rocky shore near the Dodecanese isles, known for their distinctive barking.

Seble

Melita's older daughter, a teenager who is often sullen and responsible for watching Kaya.

Seeker

Seeker is a giant, white-furred vargr with blue eyes, and the last of her kind. She is also known as "She Who Finds Paths to New Lands." She inhabits a parallel dimension called Bright Ice, which exists on the border between the world of ice and the world of giants. Seeker has the ability to communicate mind-to-mind and can lend her powerful vargr body to others, bestowing enhanced senses, strength, speed, immunity to cold, and rapid healing. She is the mate of Defender. Initially wary, Seeker becomes a crucial ally and patron to Ash Kinley.

Seleucid Kingdom

A Hellenistic state that puts pressure on Priene, leading Tyler to seek Nabis's advice on maintaining independence.

Septic

A septic is a type of time traveler, also known as a temporadus, who, despite having the best intentions, inadvertently infects the timeline with their ideas or technology. They are considered one of the primary adversaries of organizations like Specta Aeternal (SA), which aims to preserve the timeline.

Serotonin Inhibitors

Pharmaceutical drugs mentioned by the doctor as part of Rosemarie's treatment, intended to manage her mental state, often associated with conventional psychiatric care.

Shadow Spell

A type of magic practiced by Rowan, often resulting in faint shadows that don't move in sync with the subject. Used in her immortality experiments.

Shadowliner

The Shadowliner is a unique, trackless, steam-powered locomotive, plated with dark chrome and featuring thick, massive wheels that make it resemble a train-shaped bus. It was built by the Black Rose Society about half a century ago using simple technology that avoids malfunctions around Transcendent individuals. Shadowliners operate within Velox, a shadow dimension where time passes more quickly, allowing them to travel faster than planes.

Shapeshift

The ability to change forms.

Shared Stairs

Magical stairs that allow travel between locations, sometimes across great distances, with a strong "pull" force. Built by Qeb.

Shield

A device used for blocking attacks.

Shrine

A stone carved with a crude likeness of a female archer, believed to be the goddess Skadi. It is located near a fountain and serves as a place of offering for the ice vargr.

Silver Collars

Elite Pictish horse soldiers.

Silverweave

A black composite material with silver threads woven into a tight diamond pattern, used by the Knights of Rome for combat armor. Silver blocks the connection between spirits and bodies, making it effective against werewolves and other paranormals.

Síndóm

A thin dagger forged of dark green metal with blazestone inlay and emeralds in the handle. It is very old, pre-classical, and was a gift from Julian to Cassandra. It possesses an "exotic power" to erase a victim's physical existence and memories, but cannot destroy their soul. It is sought by Rowan and seems to have a will of its own, preferring to stay with Emma. It is housed in a bone scabbard with a release button. A Fae dagger that Julian gave to Cassandra. It is later stolen by Rowan, who intends to use it to destroy the world.

Sindrion

A greenish aluminum-like alloy created by the Fae.

Sitota

An Ethiopian gift card that looks like a debit card.

Skadi

A Norse goddess who helps Ash.

Slavemaster

A Norseman who oversees the slaves, characterized by his grizzled face, shaved head, and braided beard.

Sleeping sickness

A disease caused by tsetse flies in Africa, with symptoms ranging from fever to death.

Slingshot

Ash Kinley's primary weapon, with which she is highly proficient.

Snedeker

A cadet who accompanies Alexander Argyros and is stunned by the appearance and disappearance of the dragon. Later serves as General Argyros's loyal squire on dangerous missions, dedicated and following his commander's orders without question.

Snakehead Staff

A magical staff given to Rosemarie by Merlin.

Snow Vargr

Large, white wolf-like creatures.

Som

Som is described as a reflective plane, shadow dimension, or ethereal prison that exists parallel to the real world, Mortalos. It is generally inaccessible to Transcendent individuals, but powerful witches, like Empress Rowan, and dark elves can enter it, often by "casting" or "shadow walking" into it. A key characteristic of Som is its time dilation, where time passes much slower than in Mortalos—for instance, minutes in Mortalos can be hours in Som, allowing witches to accelerate their work. Distances within Som are expanded, making it impractical to travel long distances on foot. Witches utilize Som to create "metakeeps," which are ethereal prisons for their experiments, and it also serves as an escape route and travel method for certain powerful beings. Technology, such as phones, typically does not function within this dimension.

Sotiria

A strong and powerful High Priestess at the Sanctuary of Artemis, and a friend of Callisto. She is a formidable athlete and fiercely protective of her sacred ground.

Soul Cage

A coffin-like device made of "plaga," a special composite metal developed by the Knights of Rome. It is used to deincarnate paranormals by trapping their soul inside with their body after death, preventing reincarnation.

Soulreading

A "greater power" of the Transcendent, an evolved form of soulsight that allows for a deeper understanding and perception of souls. Cassandra Cross (Emma's past life) was a soulreader. Lorance Sparkes is also a soulreader.

Soulsight

The ability to see into the souls of others, perceiving their true nature and emotions as "twisting colors." Emma Rue possesses this ability, which is an evolved form of a Transcendent power. It is a "greater power" for Nobles.

Sounion

The site of heavily guarded silver mines on the Attic peninsula.

Sparta

An ancient Greek city-state in the Peloponnese, ruled by King Nabis, where Tyler and Rosemarie travel to prevent the chronomichani from being invented. It is a collection of interconnected villages rather than a grand city.

Spartans

The inhabitants of Sparta, known for their military prowess, discipline, and unique social customs, including their views on women and slaves.

Spear

An ancient weapon used by various characters.

Specta Aeternal (SA)

A clandestine organization dedicated to maintaining the integrity of the timeline by preventing its exploitation. They recruit and train time travelers like Rosemarie and Tyler to protect historical events. A powerful organization built around the chronomichani, willing to preserve the timeline at the cost of individual suffering, and are antagonists to The Conservators.

Spiritist

A spiritist is an individual who can communicate with the dead and even "things far worse than the dead." They can access the metaverge, a borderland between the living world and the Afterworld, where dead souls may appear as people or animals. Some spiritists are noted for their exceptional power, capable of bringing zombie bodies to life through the use of a ghost's soul. These practitioners are sought for their ability to confirm the existence of those presumed lost or deceased.

Staff

A long, versatile weapon and used by Rosemarie.

States (America)

The United States, where Rosemarie was sent for experimental psychiatric treatment, highlighting a significant and traumatic period in her fragmented past.

Stefan Hildebrand (Micah)

Stefan Hildebrand is an elite paranormal hunter for the Knights of Rome (KoR), an organization that relentlessly pursues individuals with unique abilities. Initially tasked with capturing and eliminating Emma due to her powers, Stefan's mission becomes complicated as he grapples with the morality of his organization's actions and develops a more nuanced view of his target. He is a highly trained and capable soldier, characterized by his resilience and strategic thinking, who possesses a deeply caring nature, particularly for those he is sworn to protect. Stefan also harbors a secret strength, a unique capability that makes him a formidable, though often conflicted, force as he navigates a world of supernatural threats.

Stefan's Dad

The former alpha of Clan Corby, now retired due to a neck wound he sustained at Fort Adams. He struggles with his loss of status and has a strained relationship with Stefan. He is also a Were whose wolf was badly wounded but later resummoned by Cain.

Suicide Tree Poison

A lethal quintessence from the suicide tree, used by Rowan in her experiments.

Sun Gun

A flashlight-like device used by Stefan Hildebrand that emits a "wicked bright light" to stun and partially blind vampires, who are sensitive to light.

Sun Walker

Sun Walker is a dark elf who serves as the voice of Sindri, the Dökkálfar's greatest smith and ruler of Forge Mountain. She is notable for being one of the few dark elves who spends time above ground, earning her name due to the Dökkálfar's extreme sensitivity to sunlight, which can turn their skin to stone. She applies a mud-like salve to her nude body to protect herself from the sun, which comes off on objects she touches.

Svartr

The Svartr are a Were clan of dark-haired Nordic descent, considered feral and dangerous by outsiders. They are characterized by their dark hair and amber eyes.

Syracuse

A Greek colony in Sicily, mentioned as being under Roman control.

Tarot Card

A magical item used by Larkin to gain insight.

Tattoos

Magical and symbolic body art, including Rosemarie's animal designs (fish, deer, horse, eagle) made with wyrm scales that grant her special abilities.

Tej

Ethiopia's traditional honey wine, served in a beaker-like container.

Temporadus / Temporadi

A temporadus is a time traveler. Temporadi is the plural form.

Temporal Rupture

A disturbance or anomaly within the continuous flow of time, often caused by unintended actions during time travel, which the Specta Aeternal organization works to repair.

Tempus

A mysterious, fork-tongued character who approaches Ash. He appears to have a unique understanding of time and the forces at play in the Heartblaze world.

The Athenaeum

The library where Emma works part-time in the evenings. She considers its history section her "happy place." Melita also works here.

The Breakers

The most opulent of the Gilded Age mansions in Newport, built by the Vanderbilt family. Emma takes a self-guided audio tour here. It also secretly houses the Black Rose Society's "Shadow Breakers" sanctuary in Velox.

The Conservators

An organization formed to fight Specta Aeternal, believing in actively changing the timeline to "make the world better." Also known as "The Unbound" by SA, which refers to them as a "time terror group."

The Magi

The Magi are individuals from the distant future who visited the past, leaving behind several advanced gifts around eighty years ago. Their gifts include folded-space technology, allowing small items like pouches to hold vast quantities, and a universal translation device (a "language bug") that enables communication in any language. They also developed a technology to "ground" Specta Aeternal agents, preventing their bodies and memories from being altered or erased by time corrections. The reasons behind their visits and the purpose of these gifts remain unknown.

Thermite Bomb

A type of incendiary bomb used by Stefan to destroy a KoR armored surveillance van. It melts through armor and fries the occupants.

Thorn Cradle

An ancient rite of passage for titled Transcendent, involving a leap into a nest of long-thorned black roses. It is no longer a practiced tradition for new Nobles, as Emma has already "survived" it.

Thorns (Fangs / Feed Teeth)

The fangs of a Transcendent that extend when they are hungry. Their appearance is accompanied by a burning sensation in the stomach, indicating the onset of hunger.

Tibs

A dish served at the dinner party thrown for Tyler's first successful jump into the past.

Time Academy

A specialized training institution for future Specta Aeternal agents, where individuals like Tyler and Rosemarie refine their time travel and survival skills. Also known as Collegium Chronos.

Time Compass

The "time compass" is a small, antique-looking pocket watch with a turquoise-and-gold cover depicting the zodiac. Its glass face lacks traditional minute and hour markings, instead featuring silver and gold needles. The gold needle consistently points toward the user's true time period, the one in which they were born. The silver needle spins to indicate a time distortion, such as a rift, with its speed increasing the closer the distortion; if it spins so fast that it blurs, it signals imminent danger. This device is used by time travelers to monitor time rifts and to find their way back to their true time period if caught in a distortion, as simply retracing steps is ineffective due to the rift's constant movement.

Time Dilation

The effect experienced in Velox where time passes more quickly, making it useful for speeding up experiments or travel.

Time jump

The act of traveling through time, a primary ability of Tyler and Rosemarie, which can be affected by external factors like poison.

Time Rift

A mysterious phenomenon that allows characters to travel between different time periods, including the present day, the Ice Age, and the Viking era. The rift is unstable and its effects are not fully understood by the characters.

Time Travel

The fundamental ability and theme of the story, involving movement through different historical periods, enabled by specialized training and unique inherent abilities.

Timesight

A special power possessed by Tyler, allowing him to perceive multiple temporal layers simultaneously, giving him a tactical advantage by seeing possible future movements in combat and overlapping images of an object's present and future positions.

Timoleon (Timbo)

The snarky and entertaining guide for Tyler and Rosemarie in Ancient Greece. He is knowledgeable about Hellenic culture but has a hidden agenda.

Tom Tulley

Cassandra's first husband, a Captain in the Continental Army. He is brave and intelligent, and later develops a "secret language" of hand gestures for spying.

Toto (Lion)

Trinity's pet lion, a massive beast with a golden mane woven with silver beads. Despite his size, he is surprisingly docile around Trinity and her allies.

Transcendent (Vampire)

Beings like Julian and Cassandra who are essentially vampires. They possess various abilities such as soulsight, soulreading, metamorphosis, and Velox (shadow walking). They are sensitive to light and can form "bloodmate" bonds. They feed on "stock" and have a hierarchy based on "greater powers" (Nobles, Lords, Kings/Queens).

Trickster

A godling who warned Stefan about Rowan getting the dagger.

Trinity

The wise and influential leader of The Conservators, who possesses vast knowledge and strategic insight. She is a former SA director and a key figure in the mission to change history.

Troy

A member of Clan Corby who weight-lifts with Cain.

True Death

A term used by the Transcendent, implying a permanent end to their existence, beyond deincarnation or reincarnation.

True Tongue

A rapid, nearly silent whispered language that only the Transcendent can understand.

Tsetse flies

Flies in Ethiopia that can transmit sleeping sickness.

Tunnels

Dark, narrow passages that smell of hot metal, where Stefan and Ash are trapped until they are rescued by Tyler. A clockwork bear is encountered here.

Turkey

The country where a Roman payroll stash is located, one of Lord Beasley's potential gigs for Tyler.

Twin Hammers

Esben's medieval replica weapons with steel shafts and pronged heads, used for smashing skulls.

Tyler Buck

Tyler Buck is a treasure hunter who finds his life dramatically changed when he acquires dragon blood, transforming him into a powerful dracoform with unique time-traveling and combat abilities. He becomes an agent for Specta Aeternal, an organization dedicated to preserving the timeline and preventing history from being altered by those who seek to exploit it. Throughout his adventures, he is aided by a special spatial pouch that holds an impossible amount of gear. He forms strong alliances, notably with Stefan Hildebrand and Ash Kinley, and develops a deep connection with Rosemarie Allen, who is destined to be his soulmate. Despite his extraordinary powers and important missions, he often struggles with the physical toll of his abilities and the constant threat of those who would misuse time for their own gain.

Tyler's Pouch

A magically large pouch that can hold many items, including condoms, a water filter, and a Zippo lighter.

Ulfhednar (Were)

A clan of Were (werewolves) descended from Northmen, who channel wolf spirits in battle. Stefan Hildebrand belongs to Clan Corby. They have a special tattoo made with wolf blood and can "invoke" their wolf spirit. They are also referred to as "shifters" due to their abilities.

Ute tribe

A Native American tribe that Tyler claims to be one-eighth from.

Vampire

A type of supernatural being, exemplified by Lorance and Karolína.

Vargr

Horse-sized wolves descended from Fenrir, a giant beast from Norse mythology. These are the wolf spirits channeled by the Ulfhednar.

Velox (Shadow Walk)

A Transcendent ability that allows them to "slip into the shadow world" and travel great distances almost instantly, disappearing from the mortal world. Time passes more quickly in Velox, making it useful for speeding up experiments. Some powerful Transcendent can take others and even vehicles into Velox.

Venatores

A branch of the Transcendent who enforce Transcendent laws. They act as a Judicial Council and executioners. They wear black armor, helms, and masks, and carry swords and shields.

Vera Gentis (True People)

A cross-cultural organization founded by Lorance Sparkes to combat the Knights of Rome and other existential threats. Its Latin name means "True People." Membership is open to Transcendent, Were, Fae, witches, and all others under threat. They hold summits in places like the Czech Republic.

Vigrvarg

The Vigrvarg are the all-female royal guards of the Svartr clan, known for their fierce loyalty and combat prowess.

Village Smith

A muscular man who removes Stefan's restraints at Mahna's command. He is a skilled craftsman working in the village smithy.

Vladislava

The partner of Karolína Votavová, a Transcendent geographer in Prague.

Water-Filter

A device found in Tyler's pouch, used for purifying water.

Wayfarer

Lorance's limo driver and a skilled Transcendent. He is the "most skilled traveler in the North American domains," capable of taking multiple people and an entire vehicle into Velox.

Were

Beings capable of taking animal forms.

Were-Community

The collective society of Were, with its own customs, territories, and internal politics. It is threatened by external forces like the KoR and internal conflicts between factions like the Gray Wolves (Corby's elder council).

Werebear

A type of shifter, exemplified by Esben, who can invoke his bear form.

Whistle Belly

A drink Julian's father consumed every morning.

Wolf-girl

The descriptive name given to Rosemarie during her early, solitary existence in the wilderness, highlighting her feral and survival-driven nature before she integrated into human society.

Wyrm

Another name for a dragon.

Xenia

The ancient Greek tradition of hospitality, where strangers are treated with generosity and respect, even without prior acquaintance.

Yellow butterflies

Insects with distinctive orange patches on their wings, part of the vibrant Hellenic wildlife.

Yorktown

The site of the Siege of Yorktown, a pivotal battle in the Revolutionary War where Cornwallis surrendered to Washington.

Zivanka

A spiritist who went on a disastrous trip to the metaverge with Emma.

Zombie

Undead attackers with decomposed heads and tattered clothing. They do not bleed effectively when cut.

Zulien

The Deputy Director of Recruitment for Specta Aeternal and Chief Academic Attaché at the Collegium Chronos. He is a formal and bureaucratic leader, responsible for overseeing the training of new time travelers, though he can be stern. Later appears bitter and suspicious with a keen eye for perceived betrayal.