After Roz saves Thorn but loses a foot, Brightbill asks whether the injury hurts. Roz says it does not hurt, but walking will now be difficult. Mother Bear apologizes for Nettle and Thorn attacking Roz and promises that the cubs will never bother Roz again.

Roz tries to walk back through the forest, but the smooth stump slips on the ground. When Roz attempts to hop, Roz crashes into trees and undergrowth. Thorn apologizes for breaking off Roz’s foot, and Roz says that Thorn is forgiven, which comforts him.

Because Roz cannot walk properly, Roz concludes that crawling home may be the only option. Mother Bear refuses to let that happen and lies down so Nettle and Thorn can help Roz onto Mother Bear’s back. Brightbill joins Roz on Mother Bear’s shoulders, and the group begins traveling through the island.

The sight of a robot and gosling riding on a bear attracts many animals. Deer, raccoons, birds, and others join the procession as it passes through forests, meadows, and streams, turning the journey home into a grand wildlife parade led by Roz.

By sunset, most animals have drifted away, and only Mother Bear, Nettle, Thorn, Roz, and Brightbill reach the Nest. Mother Bear helps Roz down, and Roz thanks her for turning a difficult day into a wonderful ending. After the bears leave, Brightbill asks whether Roz will ever walk again, and Roz says she is unsure but knows whom to ask for help.