Uhtred, Northumbrian born, raised a Viking and married to a Saxon, is a formidable warrior, and he, together with the thoughtful and pious Alfred, Alfred's family and a few of Uhtred's companions, are apparently all that remain of the Wessex leadership after a disastrous truce. Defeated comprehensively by the Vikings, Alfred and his Saxon followers seek refuge in Athelney, a tidal swamp and all that is left of Alfred's kingdom. Uhtred still thinks of rejoining his Danish foster brother and the victorious Vikings, but he finds a growing respect for the stubborn leadership of Alfred, to whom Uhtred's support is essential if the Saxon strength is to be rebuilt and battle joined with the enemy.