In the battle for power, there can be only one winner.

The ruler of Mercia is dying and there is no immediate successor. His wife is a born leader, but no woman has ever ruled an English kingdom. And she does not have at her disposal the best warrior and protector: Uhtred of Bebbanburg.

An empty throne would leave the kingdom exposed to the West Saxons and the Vikings, who once again thirst for blood.

A hero is needed; a hero who has fought all his life, someone who can destroy the dual enemy threatening Mercia. A hero who will ultimately determine the fate of a nation...