Salamandastron, the mountain stronghold of the badger lords, has fallen under attack by Ferahgo the Assassin. Only the lord Urthstripe's foster daughter, Mara, and her hare companion Pikkle escape. Meanwhile, at Redwall, the sword of Martin the Warrior is discovered, but stolen from the Abbey. Samkim and Arula, two of the youths, leave to reclaim the relic. More paths intertwine across many miles of land as Redwall and Salamandastron face crises that they must overcome...