SARAH RUSTON is the only survivor of an assault by Red Hand and his warriors in April 1860. The Indians ambushed the trailing wagons before focusing on the lead wagon owned by the Rustons. Screaming and swearing at her attacker, Sarah is quickly tied down to the chief's pony and later thrown into his lodge. The family cannot understand this sullen, yet fierce little girl. With the knowledge of medical healing from an uncle, Sarah quickly became the village's traditional healer. At age sixteen, Sarah consents to marry the village's esteemed warrior, Iron Horse. Upon settling in their new reservation home, tearful farewells are exchanged when Sarah and her family travel to California for a new life. Sarah's son, Jason, studies law and then accepts the district judgeship in Rapid City. History reports that the American Indian is subjugated. Ironically, they are still honored and respected in the present day.