Christendom draws the sword of dynastic ambition and religious rectitude against friend and foe alike.

As Europe goes to war with itself, nations and peoples begin a descent into barbarism. The Ottoman Empire seizes upon Christian disunity to launch a great fleet to conquer Europe. Facing disaster, the Papacy forms a Catholic league with Spain, France and the Italian republics to build a navy and soon an epic sea battle ensues.

Meanwhile in Ulster, Hugh O’Neill, Baron of Dungannon rides with Walter Devereux, Earl of Essex who has promised Queen Elizabeth to tame Ulster to the Crown.

Hugh marries a relative, Fenella O’Neill, the daughter of Brian MacPhelim O’Neill - a powerful Gaelic nobleman - in a bid to win him as an ally in exerting control over his barony. Meanwhile, the rebellious Gaels of Ulster and southern Ireland renew their efforts in pressing Spain and Rome to send a force to help them defeat the Privateers and Essex.

However, in England, disgruntled noblemen continue to plot the downfall of Queen Elizabeth and her hated advisor, William Cecil. But their leader soon finds himself staring at the executioner’s block.