Protagonists:
* Charlie McGee: A young girl with pyrokinetic powers (the ability to start fires with her mind). She is innocent and empathetic but also deeply scared and confused by her abilities.
* Andy McGee: Charlie's father, who also possesses psychic abilities. He's a former college professor with a strong moral compass. He's deeply devoted to protecting his daughter.
* Vicky McGee: Charlie's mother, who has no psychic abilities but is a fiercely protective and loving parent.
Antagonists:
* The Shop: A shadowy government organization dedicated to capturing and experimenting on individuals with psychic abilities.
* Captain James Hollister: The ruthless head of The Shop, obsessed with controlling Charlie's powers for his own ends.
* Irwin "Iron Mike" Jamison: A powerful psychic who is imprisoned by The Shop and used as a weapon.
* John Rainbird: A sadistic and highly skilled assassin with a unique ability to "read" people's thoughts. He is a ruthless agent of The Shop and becomes fixated on Charlie.
Supporting Characters:
* Norma Mansfield: A woman who helps Andy and Charlie in their escape from The Shop. She's compassionate and resourceful.
* George McMasters: A young scientist who works for The Shop and is conflicted about his role in the organization.
* Dr. Wanless: A brilliant but ethically compromised scientist who is in charge of the experiments on the children with psychic abilities.
Important Note: The relationship between the characters and their motivations is complex and evolves throughout the story. There are shades of gray, and the lines between good and evil are blurred.