Ah, the waiting for the rules begins...

Looks like they hold some of the "personalities" you may meet in your Quest.The Gandolf Counter in the pic seems to show him upright.

In any case bring on the Rules (probably a good wait -but at least I should have a chance to digest Innsmouth before this hits.)

OD

Probably some sort of a device to keep cards upright so your opponents can't see the cards but you can keep your hands free to do other stuff, i.e. move your figure(s), search other cards, etc.

Nay... I agree the stands are certanly for character your hero has in company. 8 stands seem a little few for holding your cards