Matthias the mouse is orphaned when the vile rat Cluny the Scourge destroys his town. Adopted by the generous creatures of Redwall Abbey he grows up to admire their legendary protector, Martin the Warrior. But his peaceful young life is shattered when the Abbey is attacked by rats and Matthias meets their warlord - none other than Cluny! Matthias resolves to fight the tyrant that once again threatens his life - and his new family.