General Khrak exhausts every effort to find the Wingfeathers as they train in the safety of Glipwood Forest, but their brief rest is quickly ended by Fangs. Fleeing for safety, the family must face the perils of the forest and survive.

Cornered between Fingap Falls and the sea, the family must take a stand. General Khrak assures that he only wants to bring them back for questioning. A discovery leads the family to take a daring path that will require a great sacrifice.

The Wingfeathers are detained by a new threat and taken to their encampment. The thieving Stranders of the East Bend demand Podo tell them a story of his youth, or be tossed in the river. Kalmar's quick thinking changes their fortunes.

Walking the streets of Dugtown, the family find help from a friend at The Roundish Widow. Tensions arise when their guide to the Ice Prairies proves suspicious and they face an impossible choice. The Wingfeathers get help from an unexpected ally.

Hiding in the pub, the boys get help from McHiggins. Kalmar makes a dangerous decision and Janner hits a dead end. With enemies pursuing, Nia and Podo face an impossible choice. In the Phoob Islands, Artham encounters the Stonekeeper's terrible work.

Imprisoned in the Fork Factory, Janner encounters other kids called 'tools' by the Overseer. His escape attempt is thwarted after encountering an old friend. In the dark, he resolves to gain his freedom and help his brother.

Determined to fulfill his role of Throne Warden, Janner unfolds his elaborate escape plan to find his little brother. When the plan begins to unravel, he must make a terrible choice. Nurgabog relays sad news, but Janner encounters a surprising ally.