As Herot is preparing for Slean and Keta's wedding, shocking secrets are revealed and the couple must decide if new loyalties are to be forged or irrevocably shattered. Meanwhile, with Rheda’s new laws permeating the tribes, Abrecan is forced to choose between stepping aside and accepting his sister's rule or standing against her in a declaration of war.

With danger lurking in every corner threatening the Shieldlands, Herot’s Huskarla patrol the forests looking for signs of the enemy. Enjoying their newfound romance, Beowulf and Elvina become distracted from the threats around them and she is soon forced to reveal a dark secret.

Beowulf grapples with the revelation of Elvina’s secret and the fact that he has fallen in love with her. Rheda returns to her hometown to see her brother Abrecan. In Bregan, she is confronted with some alarming revelations.

Rheda returns to Herot alone, with news of familial betrayal and that the fearsome Wulfing army are coming for them all. Now desperate, she sends word, calling for the help of the other tribes in the Alliance.