Yakari dreams of achieving something great one day. More than anything, he would like to ride the fiery horse named Little Thunder that all the men of the tribe want to catch. Yakari goes looking for the horse, and gets the chance to approach it under dangerous circumstances. It is then that he discovers to his surprise that he has the ability to speak to animals and that they can understand him. A majestic eagle comes to Yakari’s aid and offers him one of his feathers as a sign of friendship. This is the first encounter between Yakari and Great Eagle, his totem, protector and guide.

Little Thunder is by far the fastest of all the ponies. He and Yakari beat Buffalo Seed and his horse Lightning Bolt every time they race. But when Yakari asks Little Thunder to run one race too many, they begin to argue.

It’s winter, and the weather is cold. A pack of hungry wolves has been roaming around the camp, driving a hunter named Raging Wolf crazy. He has an old score to settle with the wolves, and won’t rest until he does.

A strange bird (a pelican) has gotten lost in the forest. He’s far from home and needs time to regain his strength before beginning the journey back. His big beak, large wings and clumsy manner give him a funny look when he is on the ground. Little Thunder and the beavers take every opportunity to mock him.