The Kingdom of Birds When Emil Augustus leaves the safety of his parents' nest for the first time, he discovers that the world is not as he imagined it to be. A chance encounter with an elder golden eagle sends him on a journey to search out the great and wise Amadeus, who, he's told, can teach him all he needs to know about flight. On the way he meets another young and free spirited golden eagle, Annette Benedict. Never has he met an eagle who is so carefree and happy, and he immediately takes to her. She accompanies him to look for Amadeus. But along the way they curiously drift to the world of man where Annette is shot and captured. Distraught and saddened by the loss of his companion, Emil is forced to make the long flight alone.Over the city of tall towers, over mountains, following rivers, and crossing the long and mad waters of the ocean.Throughout his flight the thought of rescuing Annette plays on his mind.