Hunac Ceel's fierce warriors from the north crush the Mayan tribes of Mexico. The Mayan king is killed, his son, Balam, is chosen as successor, and the tribe runs away to the coast. Hunac Ceel follows and forces them to flee the country, and the Mayans sail to what is now North America, where they settle in hopes of establishing a new civilization. Black Eagle, head of a neighboring Indian tribe, attacks the Mayans and is wounded and taken captive in a battle with Balam. Ixchel, Balam's fianceée, nurses Black Eagle back to health; later, after Balam saves Black Eagle from being sacrificed, the two leaders become friends and decide to live together in peace. However, Hunac Ceel, intent upon destroying Mayan civilization, attacks again. This time the Mayans, with the help of Black Eagle's tribes, defeat the invaders, but Black Eagle is killed saving Balam's life.
