Aleric, making his way across the mountains with his young daughter, Chloe, suddenly loses his foothold and drops to his death upon the rocks below. Dagban and Eric, two brothers, find the girl and take her to their cave. Dagban claims her as his own by right of might. Eric wins her with his gentleness and love. Else, the boys' mother, looks upon Chloe as a trouble-maker. Dagban threatens to do her bodily harm unless she accedes to his attentions. Eric protects Chloe; a violent quarrel follows in which Eric strikes Dagban to the ground. To avoid conflict and lest he be a further obstacle to his brother's desire for Chloe, he leaves his home. After Eric has gone, Chloe follows, declares her love for him and he for her. Together they continue their journey, seeking happiness in the land beyond the horizon, which joins earth with heaven.