Exiled from Japan during the Boshin War in 1868 as the new Meiji government took hold, two defeated samurais Hikosaburo and Manzo eventually settle in Crow territory in North America. One day out hunting, Hikosaburo encounters a young native female who has just given birth hidden in the scrub. Called Running Deer, she tells of how she escaped from two white traders who had 'bought' her. They soon come looking for their possession] Saved from the murderous deceit of the traders by the chief of the Oglalas, Crazy Horse, they soon formed a profound friendship and respect for each other's cultures to the extent of Hikosaburo and Manzo becoming 'Sky Hawk' and 'Winds Wolf' and fighting alongside their new brothers in their struggle against the invaders.