The story begins with 12-year-old Timothy Welles and his family traveling west when they are attacked by Cheyenne warriors. Timothy is the sole survivor and is taken captive by the tribe. He is later rescued by a compassionate mountain man known as Bear, and the two form a strong, familial bond as they travel and work together. Timothy learns the ways of the wilderness from Bear and takes on the name “Wind”. The narrative centers on their relationship and the harsh realities of the changing West. Throughout their journey, they encounter other frontiersmen, travel to St. Louis, and are forced to face violent conflicts, including a fierce encounter with pelt robbers.
