In AD 476 the new republic of Rome is at war with king Porcenna of Etrusca and his allies led by the the barbarian general, Drusco. After fierce fighting Drusco offers a truce but demands that the Romans offer hostages as a sign of good faith, including Clelia, the leader of a group of women warriors. Soon the peace treaty is broken and the Roman legion, under the command of Horatio Cocles "Cyclops", prepare to make their last stand at the Sublicus Bridge.