Thorgil Bloodaxe is an imposing red-haired, man-giant of a warrior who has lived in the shadow of death for more than half of his life. He has been an outlaw, a Jomsviking warrior, a Varangian in the service of the Byzantine Emperor, a reaver, a sell-sword, and now a mercenary leader. After defeating Hvit the White Queen and her mercenary army, Thorgil claimed her city fortress of Vehkajo as his own and allowed her defeated warriors to join his band, forming the Brotherhood of the Bloodaxe. However, when an attempt on his life is made at the behest of Vehkajos den masters, Thorgil realizes...