When a mysterious Creature appears just beyond the Hollow bearing a shiny object, it is urgent news for those living within the Refuge, especially the Council of the Glade. However, for a young shrew named Thutter, and his three friends, it becomes the occasion for an ill-advised adventure. As it is, to leave the Glade is to break the ancient Code and to surrender the protection of the unseen Elders, Rulers of the Refuge. All the same, the four critters begin their quest with a common goal: to see a real, live Solkreat up close. As they near the strange, two-legged Animal, however, one of the travelers reveals an altogether different agenda. He wants the magic hogseye, the "hero-maker" which dangles from the Creature's neck. According to legend, young Thutter is the only one who can steal it for him. But Thutter's companion isn't the only one coveting the enchanted object. The Beastmonger, a powerful and wicked slitherer, will stop at nothing to get it, even murder. Fortunately, the Elders know this, and they too have a plan for young Thutter. At the heart of this plan is Thutter's confidence in Them. The tiny shrew must first believe in the Elders Three, for only then will he listen for Their Voice. Otherwise, in the face of great betrayal and tragic death, the little adventurer will lose all hope. He will fail to protect his family and the Glade from grave danger. More so, he will fail to discover his all-important role in the ancient conflict between Light and Darkness.