On Gotland Sidroc wakes from a disturbing dream; one of his sons, Hrald or Yrling - perhaps both - are in trouble. Both are in far-off Angle-land, and beyond his reach.

Eskil the Svear sails to the island, offering Sidroc a rare opportunity to gain untold riches, with equal risk to life for those joining the venture.

Edwin, Lord of Kilton, returns empty-handed from his search for a bride, while his brother Ceric knows true delight with his young wife Dwynwen, the Princess of Ceredigion. A royal commission sends the wedded pair off as envoys of King lfred, bringing Ceric face to face with his family's past.

At Four Stones a troubled Jarl Hrald maintains leadership of men and lands, while questioning his resolve to move forward in his life.

Hrald's sister Ealhswith, rejected by Edwin as a potential bride, returns to Four Stones. Yet there she finds little to assuage the restiveness and dissatisfaction she finds in her young life.

Lady Pega is called to her powerful former guardian, Lady thelflaed. A joyous occasion is expected, but the result is a discovery her royal guardian never anticipated.

As suddenly as game pieces topple on a board, lives are changed - forever.