A love like no other has blossomed between nine-year-old Temujin and his betrothed, Börte. But life keeps getting in the way. He was chosen by his father to lead and when a rival tribe murders the old man, Temujin is forced to leave his love and return home to rule in his father's stead.
After being abandoned by the tribe, Temujin's family is in danger, and it falls to him to protect them. He murders a brother in self-defense and is changed forever by the act. That act makes him a criminal and he is taken into slavery; sure he has lost the love he so desires. But he escapes and makes his way back to Börte.
No sooner than they are married, she is stolen from his arms by a group of mercenaries who threaten him with ending her life if he retaliates. He lets them take her but swears revenge. Bringing his sworn brother Jamuka along, Temujin goes to rescue Börte.
When Jamuka sees Börte, he falls madly in love with her. He betrays Temujin and tries to steal her. Temujin casts Jamuka out but only causes him to fight harder to win her affections. Locked in a battle over power and love, the two men go head-to-head.
Who will win the hand of Börte? Is Temujin willing to kill a friend to protect that which he loves most?