Phoebe has always cared for the captive birds of the royal garden. Her friend, the prince, often visits her there, and together they dream of exploring the world beyond the kingdom. But when the king dies, the prince leaves his uncle in charge, and sets off alone. As keeper of the birds, Phoebe must remain within the garden's high walls. Three years pass. A prize bird escapes, but  another, the rare River Flute, arrives in the land. Phoebe agrees to the uncle's bargain: if she captures the River Flute, she'll gain her freedom. If not, she'll be punished. Phoebe gladly sets out on her search, but the hardest part of her journey is just beginning.