In the Powder River region of Wyoming, cattle baron and English gentleman Thomas Trafford, despite being the first European to enter the region, is struggling to maintain his empire against the homesteader 'invasion'.

In Powder River, Wyoming, Sheriff Marshall is investigating the mysterious murder/suicide of an ex-cavalry soldier and his homesteader wife.

As Eli aims to make penance for his actions 15 years ago, Trafford desperately tries to feed his herd, and Marshall continues to deal with the fallout of Flynn's death.

As Eli and Cornelia reach Powder River, a violent attack on his hayrick forces Trafford to make a difficult decision, and Marshall discovers the truth behind the branding.