During the Wars of the Roses (1455–1487), Sir Daniel is a powerful, unscrupulous knight, surrounded by equally treacherous retainers, Oates, Sykes, Appleyard, and Scar.

The film takes place just before Richard Neville, 16th Earl of Warwick's rebellion against Edward IV (1469–1471).

Some twelve years prior to this Daniel, Oates, Sykes, and Appleyard perjured themselves to attaint a nobleman, who later would go by the name of "Black Arrow".

Daniel's court then hails him as Sir Richard after he takes the oath to be loyal to the white rose of the house of York.

Sir Daniel arranges for Black Arrow's now seventeen-year-old daughter Joanna to be brought from the convent to his castle to keep her from being rescued by her father.

Appleyard is sent by Sir Daniel to one of his tenants to confiscate livestock for the Earl of Warwick's upcoming visit.

Hearing the approach of Scar and his companions Joanna rides off to draw them away from where Sir Richard lies gravely wounded.

Sir Richard is discovered by Black Arrow and his men, who subsequently capture Scar.

Oates is also fortunate in capturing Black Arrow and his companion Will, when the two arrive in York incognito to stop Joanna's marriage to Sir Daniel.