After Helgha meets Erik in the woods surrounding her home near Jorvik - modern day York - she learns that he is lost, and helps him by taking him into her home for the night.<br /><br />In time, the two grow close, much to the anxiety of her parents as there is no message from his father suggesting a betrothal, but Erik behaves as though they are betrothed. Soon, they learn that there is another reason why Erik has not asked her to marry him.<br /><br />With the honour of their family at stake, Helgha&#39;s father takes drastic measures to rectify the situation. Amid the bloodshed and danger of the medieval times, can Helgha find happiness for herself and her family?