Rivals secretly advance competing successors upon the death of a Mercian ruler. Brida finds solace in the faith of her prisoner, Father Pyrlig.

Aethelhelm's subterfuge successfully foments war tensions between Edward and Sigtryggr, but his thugs make a crucial mistake in attacking a pilgrimage.

The forces of Edward and Sigtryggr march toward battle as Uhtred races to reveal the truth of Aethelhelm's scheming and avert a ruinous war.