Born the son of a samurai, Harutomo is orphaned in battle and stripped of his class, forced into the role of a servant with the common name Taro. Ambitious and proud, he strives to reclaim his status and earn the respect of the warriors around him. He possesses a strong sense of empathy, particularly toward those of lower status and animals, which distinguishes him from the frequently callous soldiers of his era.

Lord Takeda is a charismatic warlord determined to conquer all of Japan. He commands a massive army and relies on his top generals to execute complex military campaigns. Though ruthless in his pursuit of absolute power, he maintains a strict code of honor that earns him intense loyalty from his retainers.

Lord Akiyama is a master military strategist and one of Lord Takeda's top generals. Nearing fifty years old, he balances ruthless battlefield tactics with a genuine capacity for diplomacy. He closely monitors Taro's progress, offering him promotions and fatherly guidance as the young man matures.

Oda Nobunaga is a powerful, merciless warlord fighting to unify Japan under his own rule. He holds a reputation for cruelty and broken promises, utilizing large armies and new technologies like firearms to crush opposition.

Togan is a large, physically strong cook in his thirties who makes highly valued wooden flutes. He is one of the rare servants who shows politeness to everyone regardless of their rank. He takes Taro under his wing, teaching the angry boy humility and the practical realities of survival as a lowly servant.

Yoshitoki is a warm, philosophical young messenger who quickly befriends the ambitious Taro. Intelligent and brave, he understands the harsh, unwritten rules of samurai society and frequently cautions his friend against idealizing combat. He balances an adventurous spirit with a realistic view of their dangerous environment.

Kansuke is a strict commander responsible for the army's provisions and spare weapons. Known as difficult to please, he values honesty and actively protects the men serving under him. He demands perfection from his assistants while teaching them the practical logistics of keeping an army functioning.

Zakoji is a wealthy samurai and district tax collector who practices calligraphy and tea ceremonies. Despite his formal and aloof demeanor, he possesses a formidable reputation as a horseman and swordsman. He observes Harutomo's progress closely, considering the young man's potential within his own family structure.

Aki-hime is the beautiful daughter of the wealthy samurai Zakoji. Having recently lost her prominent fiancé, her future is uncertain in the unstable political climate. She responds to Harutomo's poetic courtship, engaging in a careful, private correspondence that provides a gentle contrast to the surrounding violence.

Yochi is an older, resourceful peasant serving in the military supply train. After Harutomo rewards his honesty by promoting him, Yochi becomes deeply devoted to his young commander. He leverages his connections among the servants to assist Harutomo in practical and personal matters.

Katsuyori is the younger son and heir of Lord Takeda. He lacks the widespread respect his father commands among the generals, leading to tension within the clan's leadership. Headstrong and dismissive of older advisors, he makes aggressive military decisions to prove his worth.

Yoshinobu is Lord Takeda's oldest son who leads an unsuccessful revolt against his own father. His actions cause intense political gossip among the servants and highlight the ruthless nature of family politics during the era.

Lady Toyama is the noblewoman managing Iwamura Castle. Previously married multiple times for the political convenience of her nephew, Oda Nobunaga, she exercises her own agency in choosing her next alliance. She plays a zither and brings a refined, cultured presence to the military stronghold.

Hanagata Minbu is a masterless samurai, or ronin, whose former lord was executed for rebellion. Heavily armored and highly experienced, he wanders the countryside violently taking what he needs while seeking a proper end to his life.

Jiro is an arrogant stable boy who takes pleasure in bullying those below him. Despite his boastful nature, he harbors a deep fear of the horses he is supposed to tend. His mistreatment of the animals eventually leads to a physical confrontation with Taro.