The French have laid siege to the British fort, and rumor has it that they are bringing up an enormous cannon.

Elizabeth's visiting nephew realizes his dream of becoming a soldier, but when his courage fails in battle, Hawkeye and Chingachgook step in to help.

The brother of a man Taylor had executed seeks revenge by luring the captain and Elizabeth on a business expedition that will lead to their capture by the French.

An enigmatic French prisoner intrigues Hawkeye, who begins to believe that the soldier may not be what he seems.

Elizabeth's husband returns from captivity, but while she struggles to make a decision about her future, Chingachgook questions William's association with a shaman who practices ""black arts.""