It is December 1878 and war looms on the horizon in South Africa. British High Commissioner Sir Henry Bartle-Frere and Lt. General Frederic Augustus Thesiger, Baron Chelmsford seek to dismantle the powerful neighbouring kingdom of the Zulus. He and Frere are convinced that a quick victory over the Zulus will negate any repercussions from the home government for launching what is, in essence, an illegal war. Using an incursion along the disputed border as justification for war, Frere issues an ultimatum to the Zulu king, Cetshwayo, demanding he disband his armies and pay reparations. The king prepares his nation for war against their former allies. Recently arrived to South Africa are newly-recruited Privates Arthur Wilkinson and Richard Lowe; members of C Company, 1/24th Regiment of Foot. Eager for adventure, they are prepared to do their duty both for the Empire and for their friends. As Frere's ultimatum expires, the army of British redcoats and allied African auxiliaries crosses the uMzinyathi River into Zululand. Ten days later, the British and Zulus will meet their destiny at the base of a mountain called Isandlwana.