As he approaches sixty years of age, a still elegant Don Diego travels to Santa Fe to begin a new chapter in his life. The long journey from Guadalajara along the Camino Real is arduous and full of danger. He joins a wagon train of American merchants returning to Santa Fe from Mexico as they enter New Mexico and begin to go through Indian territories. One of the Americans on the trip is a young Kit Carson who is the interpreter and scout for the merchants.

A daring rescue of hostages taken by the Cherokee, results in a series of skirmishes with that native tribe. Despite his age Don Diego, has fallen in love with one of the rescued hostages, leading our hero into a desperate action to lure the Cherokee away from the wagon train and into Navajo territory. He rides his large black stallion into the west wearing his black costume including his mask, cape, and hat.

Through these actions Don Diego meets many new people: an ancient mystic traveler, a Navajo warrior that he befriends, and the historic Navajo leader, Nabona. Zorro meets his fate and adds to his legend.