The son and heir of Sir Francis Courtney. At the beginning of Birds of Prey, Hal is seventeen, living on his father’s ship. He believes he is destined to be a knight, and studies the history of the knights and their training accordingly. He goes on to assist the Emperor of Ethiopia, Prester John, in repelling Arab invaders, thus making a name for himself. He fights alongside Ethipian general, Judith Nazet, defeating the Great Mogul, and the two fall in love. In Monsoon, Hal has transitioned from being a master mariner to becoming a wealthy landowner, overseeing High Weald and governing the East India Company. He has four sons, William (Black Billy), Tom, Guy and Dorian Courtney. He undertakes a rescue mission, accompanied by his youngest three sons, leaving William to run his estate in England. Their mission results in Dorian’s kidnap, and Hal dedicates himself to rescuing his son, but dies in a failed attempt. He is affectionately given the nickname ‘Gundwane’, meaning ‘Bush Rat’, by Aboli – his father’s slave.

• Parents: Sir Francis Courtney - Lady Edwina Courtney
• Children: Sir Tom Courtney - Sir Guy Courtney - Lord William Courtney - Dorian Courtney
• Other Relatives: Son of Sir Francis Courtney

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