Bartimaeus Kemp

Bartimaeus Kemp is the leader of the revolutionary group that meets in The Thorn. He goes by the code name 'Khalkeus'.

Appearance
Kemp is described as unremarkable, with his club foot being his only notable feature. He is in his late middle-age.

Personality
Kemp is secretive, especially due to the nature of his revolutionary work. He devises alternative identities which he uses to convince others to do his bidding. To gain information from Boq, he pretends to be part of a merchant consortium in Oued.

He values those who work for him willingly, offering them things in return for their contributions. To thank Robert, he organised the rescue of Asher from the Harlequin, as well as meetings between Luca and Robert in the palace.

History
Kemp holds the position of royal astronomer. He also occasionally teaches classes at the University. As a major figure of the revolutionary movement, he is the author of several pieces of literature such as ‘The Mouth of Iron’, which discusses the origin of hierarchy.

Robbie
Kemp agrees to free Asher at Robert's request in return for his participation in the revolutionary movement. He also arranges meetings between Luca and Robbie in the palace.

Luca
Kemp tests Luca's intelligence before recruiting him into the revolutionary movement. During Luca's time at The Harlequin, Kemp collected information about him and his history. He teaches Luca codes, and uses him to pass on messages.