Needs someone who can play slimy convincingly. Saw Cummings in a James Bond and was riveted. Brankaresh is clever, ambitious, sly and a useful man to have on board as far as the Queen’s concerned. The big problem is he really doesn’t believe women can rule alone and wants to become her consort and get access to all those lovely powers only the fairy royals have. He knows how to play the game. Does not like the Queen developing her own mind, greater skills in carrying out her role on her own and loathes Eileen who he knows sees right through him. He also knows how to play the Council and has most of them in his pocket. Knows he can’t bribe L’Evallier or Rodish though and has earmarked them for murder later...
L'EVALLIER, CHIEF ELF - Daniel Craig
Need someone who can play “posh”, be courageous, argue with their boss despite knowing it could mean they’re turned into a statue, loves his wife but is so conscious of his position he is embarrassed by that until he finally discovers the joy of sex. He’s thorough with his job, is known to be honourable yet when it comes to magical ability can take on the Chief Wizard and survive, no mean achievement. Has fantastic knowledge of the Kingdom. Is a walking library when it comes to what the fairy royals can and cannot do. Is a pain in the neck to the Queen but she knows she needs him. In some senses he is her conscience.
RODISH, CHIEF DWARF, COUNCIL LEADER, KILLED BY WITCH - Nicholas Lyndhurst
Needs someone who can manipulate L’Evallier (not many can), who has a sound knowledge of the Kingdom, is phenomenally brave but unlike the Chief Elf is not that happy questioning his superiors (despite accepting the Queen ought to be pushed into marriage to secure the succession. Nobody wants Eileen recalled to take the throne). As a result the poor dwarf does end up being kiilled by the Witch, this situation set up by Brankaresh. Rodish inspires loyalty amongst all dwarves, his death is a huge loss to them, and he can fight brilliantly, which ironically leads to his killing as Brankaresh and Witch know Rodish has got to be removed if they are to get on with their plot to overthrow the Queen. Is good to his constituents. Is honest.