The Ghost Dance

An archeologist and anthropology professor who leads the dig; intelligent, dedicated, and skeptical of superstition. She becomes increasingly entangled as Nahalla's power tries to possess her. Her expertise drives the investigation, even as personal danger escalates. By the end, she embodies the conflict between science and the supernatural.

Kay's boyfriend and a protective presence who becomes a target of Nahalla's influence. He remains practical and brave as he navigates escalating threats. His loyalty to Kay pushes him to confront both human and supernatural danger. He plays a crucial role in attempting to stop the possession and save Kay.

A local Native American man who is possessed by the vengeful shaman Nahalla. His actions drive much of the killings and haunt Kay and Tom. He embodies the conflict between historical trauma and present danger, acting as the instrument of the spirit's will.

Kay's colleague who researches Nahalla's history and helps piece together the backstory. He is drawn into the danger as the clues lead to his murder, underscoring the threat of the spirit. He represents the scientific attempt to catalog and understand what haunts them.

A local medicine man who assists with the ritual to control Aranjo. He provides a bridge between indigenous spirituality and conventional medicine, though he pays a deadly price. His involvement highlights the reliance on ritual as a countermeasure against Nahalla.

A colleague at the museum who is killed by the possessed Aranjo. Her death marks a turning point in the investigation and a grim reminder of the danger of the haunting. She represents the vulnerable victims and the cost of uncovering forbidden histories.

A colleague who falls victim to the rampage when Aranjo stalks the museum. His death underscores the threat to those near Kay and Paul. He helps establish the malevolent reach of Nahalla's influence.