You can choose from five different characters. 
Each has an advantage in the four statistics 
(Strength, Agility, Stamina, Power), except the mire 
lurk, who has even stats across the board. You can 
modify any character's stats if you want, so you don't 
have to choose Brice (the big hairy guy) for a strong 
fighter. But the stats are limited to the amount given 
and only a modifier like a talisman or a potion will 
allow you to increase them later. 
You don't get to increase them permanently later in 
the game.