Unrest on the banks of the Oka. The treacherous horde of Khazars has laid siege to the fortress Volnoye, behind whose walls shelter the Polyan—land tillers. Baron Shamat thirsts for ruthless revenge, because not long ago, a pick of nomad raiders led by the chieftain’s son died in these parts. The Khazars are preparing to deal with the Polians, counting on quick victory and rich plunder. They’re sure that the fortress defenders—peaceful workers—will not be able to resist the merciless army of the steppe.
How would they know that not long before this, the Polians acquired an unusual and very formidable weapon? Now is the time to test it on uninvited guests…