Having lost his family in a brutal attack by road bandits, Ceylon is found hiding in the rubble of his family's burned out wagon by the leaders of another passing caravan. Many days later, the group reaches the Maple stand, where Ceylon meets Mapaline and her brothers, Saela, and the rest of the treeborns in residence there. Ceylon also meets Rolf, and the two have much to talk about. After time to recuperate and prepare, restless and alone, Ceylon leaves the stand and strikes out on his own. Where is he going? Why would he leave the comfort and safety of these families, and what dangers will he face in the Great Wilderness?