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Marcus's commanding officer and mentor, a veteran alchemist who survived the Ishvalan War but lost his idealism in the process. Ashford ordered Marcus to drop the murder investigation, claiming it was 'above his pay grade'—but Marcus suspects his colonel knows more than he's saying. Whether Ashford is compromised, protecting Marcus from dangerous knowledge, or simply following orders from corrupt superiors remains unclear. He's the voice on Marcus's damaged communication device, offering cryptic warnings and limited advice. Ashford represents both potential salvation—if Marcus can convince him to send backup—and potential betrayal if he's working with the homunculi. Their relationship is built on mutual respect tested by institutional corruption and impossible choices.

A methodical State Alchemist known for his analytical mind rather than raw power. Marcus specializes in structural alchemy and investigative work, which made him perfect for tracking the serial murders—and terrible for direct combat. He's haunted by losses during the Ishvalan War and driven by a need to protect civilians, which is why he pursued this case alone when his superiors wanted to bury it. Smart, resourceful, but physically outmatched, Marcus must rely on his knowledge of alchemical theory and his ability to stay calm under pressure. His greatest strength is his refusal to give up; his greatest weakness is his damaged philosopher's stone detector array, which took a hit in the initial confrontation.

The shapeshifting homunculus who embodies jealousy itself, Envy is sadistic, theatrical, and deeply insecure beneath their mocking exterior. They've been posing as various Central City citizens to commit murders that would destabilize the military, but Marcus's investigation threatens their mission. Rather than simply killing him, Envy sees this as entertainment—a chance to prove their superiority by breaking a State Alchemist's mind before their body. They'll taunt Marcus by taking the forms of his dead comrades, civilians he failed to save, and even people he trusts. Envy's arrogance is both their greatest weapon and potential weakness; they love monologuing about their kills and showing off their shapeshifting abilities. Despite their regeneration, they can still feel pain, and their true form is something they desperately hide.