Year 865. The British Isles are ruled by warring kings, and the Church rules the kings, mercilessly dealing with all who challenge its authority. Only the formidable Vikings are not afraid of the Christian hierarchs and hold tightly to their faith. The young blacksmith Chief, born of a noble English captive from the leader of northern bandits, by the will of fate - or perhaps by the will of the pagan gods - becomes an enemy of his own people. A mysterious mentor, appearing in visions, helps him create previously unseen weapons. But this is not enough to win victory after victory; The Chief's main allies are his courage and ingenuity. The chief gathers his own kingdom piece by piece and begins an all-out war - the war of the Hammer and the Cross.