5. The Key

Complete story — includes the ending

Jarl Thorkell arrives in Vestfold and is welcomed by Olaf. Gunnhild finds Lagertha and learns of Hali's death; she decides to stay and defend the village with her shield-maidens. Hvitserk has another vision of Thora; he swears on his arm ring that he will avenge her death by killing Ivar. Thorkell proposes that any of the leaders be allowed to contest the election; everyone agrees. Bjorn is introduced to Jarl Hrolf and King Hakon. Ivar and Igor free Dir; they are then introduced to Oleg's intended, Princess Katia. Ivar is shocked at her resemblance to Freydis. Hvitserk gives up his arm ring to pay for hallucinogenic mushrooms and beer; while high, he has a cryptic vision of the seer. King Olaf presents Thorkell, Hakon, Bjorn, and Harald as the four election candidates; he then publicly votes for Bjorn. Torvi tells Ingrid that there is no point in waiting for Bjorn's return. Harald votes for Bjorn. An envoy from the trading party to the Silk Road returns and informs Ubbe that Ivar is in Kiev. Ubbe asks Amma to tell Hvitserk, who has a monstrous vision of Ivar.