An innocent joke starts a chain of events that may lead to war between the Cheyenne and the Blackfeet if Brave Eagle can't put a stop to it.

A stubborn young white girl who is staying at Brave Eagle's village refuses to leave with her uncle, a cavalry officer. The uncle believes she is being held against her will and determines to "rescue" her. In order to avert a war, Brave Eagle must resolve the situation.

Chief Brave Eagle is challenged by a warrior who wants to take his position as chief--in a fight to the death.

Keena, Brave Eagle's adopted son, has defied his father and joined the tribe in an attack on renegade Indians who have attacked a white settlement, and has been captured by the renegades. Brave Eagle sets out to rescue him.