Three Civil War deserters kidnap a young boy with the sole purpose of conscripting him into their degenerate band of misfits. Tethered about the neck with a rawhide lace and made to bid the commands of General Ike Smith, the boy's survival depends upon his ability to adapt to their malevolent ways - a lesson he learns quickly. His single opportunity for redemption may lie with an old Indian horse trainer and a small band of unbroke horses.