Alvin travels around the frontier with Takumsaw, learning the ways of the Red Man and their mysterious connection to the land, and helping the chief to find a way to protect his people from the coming war and the selfish, evil designs of Governor Harrison. But things may not end happily in this tale.

William Henry Harrison has named himself governor of Carthage City, and has plans to expand his authority along the Mizzipy river. But standing in his way is the Shaw-nee chief Takumsaw, who has no desire to see his fellow Red Men enslaved by the White Men and their likker and who begins arming his tribe with the intent of war.