Uhtred and Leofric must face off against each other in a death match-a consequence of their actions in Cornwall. But there are ominous signs of a greater battle to come - The Danes launch an invasion on Wessex, pouring through the streets and killing all in their path. Running for their lives in an escape to find safety, a bond is finally struck between Uhtred and King Alfred; the two men recognize they must now stand and fight together if Wessex is to be reclaimed. Uhtred realizes that his best chance of regaining Bebbanburg rests on Alfred's return to the throne.

The future of England is at stake and the King refuses to hide. He is a man on a mission. Leaving the cover of the marshes, a united King Alfred and Uhtred must get word to Saxon forces; they make a rallying call to all Saxon armies to converge at Egbert's Stone to fight a decisive battle against the Danes. Treachery, deception and heartache follow, though hope remains. Wessex can still be saved, but at what cost to Uhtred?

Having helped Alfred defeat the Danes in Wessex Uhtred is anxious to return to Bebbanburg and reclaim his kingdom. Accompanied by feisty nun Hild he arrives in York where Beocca and Father Hreothward lead the fight against renegade brothers Erik and Siegfrid and aim to free local lord Guthred from Uhtred's old foe Kjartan with Alfred's blessing. Guthred is saved and vows to help Uhtred arrest Kjartan and the treacherous Aelfric though Kjartan escapes. Grateful Abbot Eadred canonizes Guthred but Uhtred's enemies are still plotting to defeat him. Meanwhile in Essex, Brida and Ragnar argue with Alfred over the next way forward.

Uhtred proves his worth to a grateful Guthred and when a group of horsemen arrives, claiming loyalty to Guthred but in reality sent by Kjartan. Uhtred is quick to see through their lies and all are swiftly dispatched, except one Sihtric, who agrees to change sides. Beocca leaves to return to Wessex but the baleful Eadred, still illogically mistrustful of Uhtred, and anxious for a peace treaty with Erik and Siegfrid. poisons the simple gullible Guthred against his former saviour, particularly in the light of Uhtred's fondness for Guthred's sister Gisela. As a result Guthred, anxious for a truce with the Danes, betrays Uhtred, handing him over to his enemies. Beocca seeks Alfred's help in freeing him with Alfred asking Ragnar to locate him before he is taken overseas.

When Uhtred commits a serious crime Alfred turns events to his advantage but is outraged when Uhtred retaliates with an act of violence. Uhtred must embark on a voyage and Skade's power takes hold - has he passed a place of no return?

Bloodhair and Athelwold try to coax Uhtred into their alliance against Alfred. Fearing for her life, Aethelflaed turns to Father Beocca for aid.

Edward makes a kingly decision. Alfred lays plans for his son's future reign. Aethelwold faces a treacherous task. Uhtred and Brida search out a seer.

Uhtred suffers a great loss on his attack on Bebbanburg. As he retreats south, he takes some valuable captives. Aethelflaed prepares for war.