South of the kingdom of Byon, a group of formidable warriors, known as the Kalik of the Marsh, stir. They have been silent for four years since their last raid on the seaside town of Laringsdale, but are plotting, led by the fearsome Black Knight, to take over the kingdom. Eavesdropping on the Kalik spy sent before the main force, the Doves, a group of seven kids, learn of the plan and attempt to rush north to warn the king of the incoming invasion before it is too late. Opposing them are the smuggler John Friar, who is taking the Kalik spy towards the king, as well as the spy himself. Also learning of the Kalik threat are a culture of pirates, living on Angel Island, an island off the coast of Laringsdale. The pirates quickly become caught in the workings of democracy, but two decide to take matters into their own hands, and they, too, rush north to warn the king. Can this motley group of kids and pirates stave off the largest and fiercest army in history