King Alfred keeps Uhtred close with a tactical play, but Uhtred soon realizes he’s been tricked. Meanwhile, a great battle looms over Wessex.

Edward besieges Winchester as he awaits Aethelflaed’s reinforcements, but Uhtred isn’t convinced that conquest is really Sigtryggr’s ultimate aim.

Uhtred receives news that Bebbanburg’s defenses have been weakened by Scottish attacks and plans to seize his birthright, but Edward refuses to help.