Like a growing storm cloud, a contingent of deserters, ex-convicts, jayhawkers and outlaws gradually assemble at Lake Bistineau, a scant 15 miles from the homestead.

It begins when attempting to return from Shreveport with badly needed supplies. A brutal ambush that leaves eight dead and Richard Bryan seriously wounded takes place on the lake's north shore. His family watches anxiously as he attempts to piece together a small resistance to confront the coming assault on the homestead.

Bryan is fortunate enough to learn that local "tinker," Cecil Taylor is able to both repair broker weapons and manufacture munitions. He gains surprising help from former Union Solders, Sargeant Billy McFain, Josephus Flatt (Corporate Slats) and Private, Paul Buckwalter (Bucky), as well as former Confederate Lieutenant, Guy Labeau and Sargeant Lem Brooks. He is also greatly assisted by "the people," led by Amos Bryan and his son George, and one armed, Riley Bryan, who has become a "master of the six-gun."