Flodden, Scotland, Autumn 1513. After seeing an apparition in Linlithgow, King James the Fourth is determined to go on pilgrimage to St Duthacs Church in Tain before he makes an attack on England. In his company are Master Henry Leich, his personal surgeon, and his favourite jester, Thomas. Friendship deepens between the three men as they travel north to Tain and then ride to Northumberland, far to the south. But doubts and ill omens will test their resolve before the great day of battle comes on Flodden Field.