Life as a slave is anathema to this child of a freedom-loving people, but escaping the Vikings proves easier said than done. When he wisely decides to wait until he is more grown and settled into his life with his master's family, both captive and captor learn some things about honor and courage.

Just when Rurik has begun to grow complacent, a new addition to the farm gives him a new hope. Fíne, brought to serve as his mate, is a fiery Celt who assured him that with their combined power and training, they can win their freedom and return home.

There are others who eye young Rurik has captured though, and they see a vastly different future for him.