Cusi is a young boy living an isolated life in the remote Hidden Valley of the Andes. Raised entirely by his elderly guardian, he spends his days herding llamas and learning mountain survival skills. He wears distinctive golden earplugs that hint at an important heritage. Curious and quietly observant, he yearns to understand the outside world and find a place where he truly belongs.

Chuto is an elderly man who serves as Cusi's sole human companion and teacher in the Hidden Valley. He maintains the ancient traditions of the Incan people, starting each day with a sacred greeting to the sun. He balances his protective instincts over Cusi with the heavy responsibility of preserving a fading cultural legacy.

Misti is a proud, intelligent black llama who serves as Cusi's primary animal companion. He is highly perceptive, often seeming to understand human emotions and expectations. He refuses to be treated poorly or overloaded, teaching his young handler important lessons about respect.

The Minstrel is a traveling singer who carries the stories and history of the Incan people. He possesses a dignified, almost regal presence reminiscent of ancient kings. Through his music, he connects isolated individuals to their broader cultural history.

Amauta is a powerful, authoritative figure bearing the title of a wise teacher. He wears large golden earplugs and possesses extensive knowledge of plant lore, history, and the stars. He brings formal instruction to the Hidden Valley, representing a higher order of traditional authority.

Titu is a figure from the past who once lived under Chuto's guidance. He struggled with the strict expectations placed upon him and ultimately ran away from his responsibilities. His memory serves as a cautionary tale about the heavy burden of cultural preservation.

The Woman at the Ayllu is an Indigenous caretaker who provides food and shelter to those connected to the llama herds. She reacts strongly to the sight of golden earplugs and carries the grief of losing a son who fled from his duties years ago.

The Family in Cuzco is a large, boisterous group that temporarily adopts a traveling boy into their fold. They are warm and inviting but attempt to assimilate him by giving him a new Spanish name, Nicho. They represent the appeal of community mixed with the danger of cultural erasure.

The Keeper of the Fields is an old Indigenous man who watches over the ancient lands and agricultural terraces. He lives a solitary life dedicated to the soil, recognizing the signs of ancient heritage in those who pass by.