In the medieval drama, Uhtred - a warrior of Nordic descent who was orphaned as a child after his father was slain by invaders - grows up under the guardianship of Earl Ragnar, a mighty warrior and lord of Bebbanburg. However, Uhtred's allegiance is tested when he is forced to choose between his loyalty to his birthplace and his allegiance to King Edward, who is supported by Scandinavian invaders. When Edward is betrayed and murdered, Uhtred becomes embroiled in a perilous quest for revenge as he and his companions bravely journey across a fragmented kingdom.