Papa is a stoic father and the primary caregiver for his nine-year-old son, Schatz. He communicates in short, clipped sentences and struggles to openly express his worry. When faced with his son's illness and his own inability to fix it, he turns to traditionally masculine activities like hunting to cope with his frustration.

Schatz is Papa's nine-year-old son, a boy with a multicultural background who previously attended school in France. Currently suffering from a winter flu, he strives to embody adult stoicism and self-reliance. He faces his illness with intense bravery and refuses to burden others with his internal fears.

The Doctor is a local medical professional called to treat Schatz's illness during a winter flu epidemic. He is efficient and prompt, leaving behind three different pills and explicit instructions for care. His habit of discussing medical details without fully explaining them to the patient inadvertently causes distress.

The Dog is a young Irish Setter with a glossy red coat that stands out against the frozen brush. Functioning as a loyal hunting companion, the setter patiently follows Papa across dangerously slippery, icy terrain.