Companion

Character Role Analysis

Newkirk

Newkirk is Deryn's friend, the only other midshipman not replaced by Dr. Barlow and all her equipment. Before Alek arrives he serves the function of giving Deryn an equal to talk to and someone to share her experiences with. While he's clearly a decent midshipman, Newkirk doesn't seem to be otherwise terribly perceptive, which makes him a great shipmate for a girl with a serious secret.