Despite Alfred's great victory at Edington, Wessex is far from secure. With the threat of an imminent attack from a large force of Vikings who have camped on the banks of the Thames at London, Matthew is sent to fortify the settlement at Leatherhead and, whilst there, train the local fyrd. Hopelessly outnumbered, he faces his sternest test as he and a small band of untrained warriors strive to hold off the attack long enough for help to arrive--or die trying. In a time ravaged by political uncertainty, Matthew is placed in intense personal danger as he's also ordered to investigate the tyranny of Ealdorman's son and dispense justice as he sees fit--a responsibility which rests heavy on his young shoulders. Given that he still carries the wound to his chest, what is asked of him seems more than most men could endure as he faces--The Final Reckoning.