An engineer from the neo-Victorian society who creates the Primer and undergoes significant personal transformation as his actions become entangled with various societal and technological conflicts.

A complex character involved in both organized crime and high-level official roles, whose actions reflect broader cultural and technological themes.

Nell’s older brother, protective and resourceful, who helps her survive their difficult upbringing and influences her early path.

A talented interactive media actor whose voice and presence in the Primer make her a significant maternal figure for Nell.

A magistrate committed to Confucian principles of justice, playing a crucial role in mediating conflicts and influencing the fate of key characters.

A wealthy and influential neo-Victorian who commissions the creation of the Primer with the aim of fostering subversive thought in the next generation.

A veteran security contractor who becomes a guiding, albeit emotionally distant, figure for Nell, teaching her practical and psychological lessons.

The director of a finishing school that provides formal education for girls, adhering to the values and expectations of the neo-Victorian society.

An artist and manager who supports Miranda and becomes entwined in the broader context of societal and technological conflicts.

The daughter of John Hackworth who interacts deeply with the Primer and finds herself at odds with the constraints of her neo-Victorian upbringing.

A member of the neo-Victorian forces with a complex personal life, tasked with tracking down Hackworth and ensuring his compliance with societal duties.

A Chinese nationalist group that challenges the influence of Western powers through direct confrontation and the use of advanced technology.

A collective of young Chinese girls who receive education from the Primers and emerge as a unique and loyal group with distinct values.

The traditional neo-Victorian wife of John Hackworth, concerned with maintaining societal norms and propriety within her family.

The ambitious granddaughter of Lord Finkle-McGraw, whose experiences with the Primer lead her down a subversive path.

The neglectful mother of Nell and Harv, whose disinterest in parenting and poor choice in partners contribute to her children's harsh upbringing.

A series of men in Tequila's life, generally abusive and neglectful, negatively impacting her children’s safety and well-being.

A successful business owner who understands her clientele's desires, providing insight to Nell about the power dynamics in her society.

Assistants to Judge Fang, supporting his adherence to Confucian justice and playing a part in the protection of Nell and other key characters.