Sibling Dex is a traveling tea monk dedicated to Allalae, the God of Small Comforts. Working in the post-currency society of Panga, they drive an ox-bike wagon to serve comforting tea to remote villagers. Though exceptionally skilled at caring for the emotional needs of others, they struggle to accept similar care for themselves while searching for an elusive existential purpose.

Splendid Speckled Mosscap is a sentient robot constructed from salvaged materials who recently volunteered to leave the wild and reconnect with humanity. Acting as a curious learner in human society, Mosscap eagerly studies post-currency economics and human behavior. It is driven by a singular, persistent desire to discover exactly what humans need to be happy.

Mrs. Waverly is a confident and nurturing resident of Stump, a community built in a recovering woodland. She bridges the gap between human society and the visiting robot by organizing tasks for Mosscap. She also ensures that the weary travelers receive proper rest and food.

Leroy is a kind, non-judgmental engineer and printer working in the community of Kat's Landing. He uses a 3-D printer to manufacture needed items and parts for the villagers. He offers practical technical solutions for mechanical problems and provides gentle, physical comfort to weary travelers.

Mx. Avery is an open-minded, middle-aged resident of the Coastlands, an area that radically rejects all forms of technology. Wearing handmade clothing and sporting a braid, they maintain a balanced perspective on their community's strict lifestyle. They invite the travelers on a fishing trip and offer respectful, opposing viewpoints on automation.

Nora is Sibling Dex's biological mother, living in the Shrublands with a large, extended family. She shares her home with current and former partners and an assortment of children. She is sensitive, loving, and highly attentive to ensuring that everyone in her home feels comfortable.

Theo is Sibling Dex's biological father, a quiet and compassionate man living on the family farm in the Shrublands. He prioritizes his child's well-being over the social spectacle of the robot's arrival. He is profoundly insightful, turning the traditional narrative around by asking what artificial beings require for their own satisfaction.