With Goth and Throbb aware of the Silverwings' next resting spot, Shade and Marina know that catching up and warning them is more important than ever. Brutus' son, Orestes, is mocked by the other owls for being runty and wimpish. When Brutus orders Atlas to go out on patrol and take Orestes with him, Orestes complains about his wing aching and refuses to go. Brutus, disgusted by his son's lack of interest, leaves him behind.