Ajax, a fae dragon, has brought disturbing news to the Marsh Wizard. The little dragon claims that Mörken, the Dark One, has begun a campaign of driving out the dwarves to steal their precious metals and stones. Unfortunately, the animals who live near the mines are also being driven away. Fern must choose to stay in Folkburywoods, travel to the Mirkwood mountains, and stop the Troth before they can do more damage.