Deception, death and destruction is now an everyday occurrence in what was England, the fledgling country to emerge out of the Viking wars. Enemies from every direction have joined forces to destroy England before it can truly be established. Even the closest and only ally in Powys has become directly threatened by King William's desires. The land has never seen darker days, however, hope exists with the knowledge that Godric survived Viking captivity and has arrived on home soil. Meanwhile despair leads Aethelswith down a very difficult path. All she can see is doom with every decision. What will become of the land and its people if England cannot prevail?