Merowdis is a nineteen-year-old woman with a pale face and a clear voice. She rejects the societal expectations placed upon her, preferring the company of animals and the natural world to human society. She treats all living creatures as equals and possesses a spiritual worldview that isolates her from her human family.

The Wood is a sentient, timeless entity possessing a collective consciousness that connects to all other forests. Speaking with a voice resembling a thousand trees thinking simultaneously, it observes the events taking place within its borders. It acts as an active participant in Merowdis's journey, revealing hidden truths and challenging human perceptions.

Ysolde is Merowdis's pragmatic older sister. She operates comfortably within human society and often buys gifts, like an expensive bonnet, to help Merowdis conform to conventional expectations. Despite her frequent frustration with her sister's eccentricities, she consistently defends Merowdis and sacrifices her own resources to care for her.

Merowdis and Ysolde's father represents conventional societal norms. He attempts to connect with Merowdis, but his efforts often fall short. He struggles to comprehend her spiritual connection to nature and her rejection of traditional expectations.

Merowdis and Ysolde's mother adheres strictly to the social rules of her era. She believes young women should not walk alone in the woods and openly disapproves of Merowdis's unusual behavior and large collection of animal companions.

Pretty is a silky lap dog and one of Merowdis's chosen companions. He possesses a confident and defiant personality that far exceeds his small physical size. He acts protectively toward Merowdis, actively attempting to ward off perceived threats in the forest.

Amandier is a hunting dog with a pale, rough coat. He is sensitive, cautious, and highly practical. He frequently worries about physical threats like bears and wolves, bringing a grounded sense of caution to Merowdis's woodland excursions.

Apple is a russet-colored pet pig. She exhibits calm wisdom, emotional resilience, and a pragmatic nature. She actively searches for food in the woods and provides a steadying, observant presence among Merowdis's varied group of companions.

The Fox is a cunning, territorial creature native to the wintery woods. He asserts his ownership of the territory and interacts directly with Merowdis's group, introducing an element of risk and moral complexity to their journey.

The Blackbird acts as a quiet, watchful observer within the snowy forest. The bird serves as a subtle harbinger, silently monitoring Merowdis's journey and adding to the mystical atmosphere of the environment.

Spiders are small woodland creatures that Merowdis encounters during her walk. One specific spider shares a treatise on the importance of friendship, demonstrating the complete equality with which Merowdis treats all living beings, regardless of size or human prejudice.

George Blachland is a local suitor actively pursuing Merowdis. He represents the societal expectations of marriage and conventional family life that Merowdis actively seeks to avoid by retreating into nature.