It is over a year since the Roman army landed on the shores of Britain. The savage warriors of the barbarian leader Caratacus continue to torment the legions. Emperor Claudius needs a victory to make his position secure. As the Romans gather on the eve of the battle they are confident that a final, decisive, blow will surely annihilate Caratacus, but the battle does not follow the expected course. The most ruthless army in the known world prepares to inflict dreadful punishment on the very men who could bring the long campaign in Britain to a triumphant conclusion.