Uhtred is the true heir to the Northumbrian lands of Bebbanburg, kidnapped by Danes as a child and raised among them.

Uhtred is driven by his desire to reclaim his birthright, Bebbanburg, and navigate his identity between being a Saxon and a Dane.

Brida is a Saxon girl kidnapped alongside Uhtred. She becomes his lover and a strong-willed fighter among the Danes.

Alfred, the King's brother in Wessex, sees Uhtred as both a valuable advisor and a potential threat due to his Dane upbringing.

Brida dislikes the Saxon way of life and feels betrayed by Uhtred's allegiance to Alfred, leading to her desire to leave Wessex.

Alfred seeks to negotiate peace with the Danes, offering payment and employing Uhtred's knowledge of Dane tactics and mindset.

Uhtred demands recognition as an ealdorman and seeks to use his alliance with Alfred as a means to regain his lands and title.

Aethelwold, the King's son, seeks to claim the throne but is viewed as a threat and is eventually sent away due to his treacherous behavior.

Alfred negotiates with Danes Guthrum and Ubba, refusing their demand for Uhtred's execution and offering payment for their retreat from Wessex.

Uhtred swears an oath of one year's service to Alfred, in exchange for future rewards and the chance to reclaim Bebbanburg.

Brida feels betrayed by Uhtred's decision to serve Alfred and his focus on his personal ambitions, leading her to leave him.

Uhtred's ultimate goal is to reclaim his ancestral home, Bebbanburg, and restore his status as its rightful lord.

Uhtred struggles with his identity, being seen as a Dane by Saxons and as a Saxon by Danes, while trying to find his place in both worlds.

Uhtred provides strategic advice based on his knowledge of Dane warfare and tactics, helping Alfred in his conflict against the Danes.

Uhtred's loyalty to Alfred is complex; while he serves him, he is primarily motivated by his own interests in regaining Bebbanburg.