With Slean and Thane Scorann missing, Beowulf and Rate, Thane of the Varni, charge out into the forest in search of them. But with the Gathering fast approaching and Rheda's bid for leadership depending on the hope of ever-loyal Scorann's vote, Beowulf questions whether their disappearance might be more than a simple coincidence. Beowulf and Rate continue their journey, tracking deep into the forest and are soon reminded that the Shieldlands are a dangerous place. Elsewhere, Rheda comes under increasing pressure to find the answers she desperately – whilst another realises the shocking truth of Herot's traitor.