Nanza is the righteous hero of the story's title. A lieutenant in the armies of the city-state of Avin, his ethical nature limits his advancement and gives him his destiny.

This is the initial character information that James worked from:

Our hero. An earnest, young officer in the armies of Avin, his attention to morality and right conduct gets him put out of the action -- until the action comes to him and forces him into the spotlight. Nanza is athletic with an attentive eye. His fighting experience is limited, but he has a core of bravery, responsibility and love for his people that will shine through in time. He keeps his hair in the Avin style, not short, but not long enough to tie back in any way.