Beowulf returns to Herot one last time to say goodbye to its leader and his former guardian, Hrothgar but something follows Beowulf and Breca back to Herot.

Following Hrothgar's funeral other thanes start to arrive at Herot to elect a new Jarl, leader of the Shieldlands, including Lagathorn, the fierce Rate and Scorann, who, along with Slean, is captured by bandits. Aware that Bayen was not killed by the troll Beowulf realizes that the murderer was a skin-shifter - a mud-born able to take on human form. Breca's wife Lila, who runs the smithy with daughter Vishka, tells Beowulf that Bayen argued with iron smelter Tarn, who points him towards the steward Varr, though both prove to be innocent. Eventually Beowulf unmasks the skin-shifter but believes that he has been instructed by one of the thanes to cause dissent.

With Slean missing, Beowulf and Rate ride out into the forest to search for him.

Rheda must prove herself worthy to become ruler of all the Shieldlands.

Beowulf, Elvina, Vishka and Breca continue towards the Mere to cement a new treaty.

A fearsome clan known as the Wulfing raiders launches an attack on Herot, and with the element of surprise on their side, all seems lost.

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. Abrecan is forced to choose between stepping aside and accepting his sister's rule or standing against her in a declaration of war.

Beowulf and Elvina steal a private moment, but she is soon forced to reveal a dark secret.

Rheda is eager to discredit Beowulf's accusations, but is she ready for the truth?

Rheda now faces the greatest threat of all as the forces of Abrecan's army close in.

Rheda stands against her own brother and his fearsome army.