Gretl is the young, kind-hearted daughter of the landlord at the White Horse Tavern. Unlike the men around her who operate out of fear or ambition, she operates on innate empathy and moral courage. She is deeply affected by the suffering of others, even fictional characters, which leads her to take responsibility when dangerous events begin unfolding in her town.

Karl is Herr Ringelmann's apprentice, an ambitious but fearful young man. Paralyzed by the thought of public failure, he neglects to build the required masterpiece for the town's great clock. His desperation to avoid shame makes him vulnerable to dark bargains and destructive shortcuts.

Dr. Kalmenius of Schatzberg is a tall, imposing clockwork-maker with a harsh voice, black cloak, and burning eyes. Reputed to be the cleverest man in Europe, he builds incredibly intricate mechanisms. He operates with an amoral worldview, treating life as something that can be wound up and controlled through technical skill.

Fritz is a cheerful young writer who enjoys the thrill of improvising his tales. He frequently begins stories without knowing how they will end, treating his craft with a careless attitude. When his imagination crosses over into reality, he struggles to confront the dangerous consequences of his words.

Prince Otto is a ruler consumed by his desire to preserve his royal dynasty. His obsession with securing an heir overrides all concerns for love, peace, or honor. This fanatical devotion to his lineage drives him to seek out dangerous, unconventional methods to ensure his family's continuity.

Prince Florian is the young heir to the throne, born after years of his parents' desperate wishes. Though he spends his early years as a merry child, he suffers from a strange, stiffening illness that makes him cold and rigid. His survival depends heavily on the intervention and sacrifices of those around him.

Sir Ironsoul is an intricately crafted mechanical figure of a knight in gleaming silver armor. Wielding a razor-sharp sword, the automaton is programmed to activate upon hearing a specific trigger word. He operates with cold, relentless precision.

Herr Ringelmann is the town clockmaker of Glockenheim and a master of his craft. He is a kind, honorable artisan who respects the traditions of his trade and the town's famous great clock. He serves as a model of responsible, patient creation.

Baron Stelgratz is an old, trusted family friend and advisor to the royal family. Deeply loyal and courageous, he represents selfless devotion and is willing to face extreme danger to protect his ruler and the young prince during a winter journey.

Princess Mariposa is Prince Otto's wife, who longs deeply for a child to secure the royal line. When she finally receives a son, her joy restores her health, though she remains largely unaware of the desperate lengths required to sustain him.

A hired worker tasked with driving Prince Florian to a hunting lodge. He operates purely out of self-interest and financial calculation, evaluating his responsibilities based on personal risk and profit rather than moral duty.

Putzi is the old tavern cat at the White Horse Tavern. Though just an animal, its sudden movements contribute to the tense, highly wound atmosphere of the inn.