The adventure continues when Andy convinces his new wife Maggie to return with him to Nevera where she is embraced by the villagers, young and old alike, especially the children. But the future of the lost race is threatened when it is learned that others have discovered Andy’s gold mine. Kukook and the Guardians pursue a quest to protect their existence and eliminate a threat from the outside world. During a confrontation to drive the men off the mountain one is killed and the other wounded and brought to Nevara. His fate, left to the Guardian bear Kulyak, is certain death.
Andy has turned over the rights to his mine to Aari Taikeet, a local native and friend. Taikeet is soon confronted by Rodney Jacobs, a friend of the two men killed. A confrontation ensues and during the standoff Kukook arrives and tries to intervene but is shot and killed. Jacobs escapes.
Andy and Maggie are long overdue for their return home and are soon discovered by a rescue party sent out to look for them. Aari decides to return to Nevara where he meets Lorinta. In a daring move, Aari decides to bring Lorinta back to Anchorage where they are married, however, soon after, an earthquake hits southern Alaska. Concerned for the welfare of the natives of Nevara, Andy and Aari hastily return to find much damage to Nevara and the hidden valley destroyed. Aari and Lorinta decide to stay behind and Andy vows to return with Maggie someday and visit. For now, what the future holds for the natives is uncertain.