10. The Best Laid Plans

Complete story — includes the ending

In Vestfold, Bjorn and Harald prepare for the incoming Rus' attack by fortifying Tamdrump's fjord, the river to the north, and the beach in between; during the preparations, Gunnhild loses her unborn child. Frustrated with Bjorn having taken a second wife, Harald rapes Ingrid. Of the many kings and earls of Norway, only Thorkell and his men have joined Harald's army. In Kiev, Katia offers herself to Ivar, but he refuses; she later tells him that she is not satisfied with her marriage to Oleg. Ivar helps Oleg plan the invasion and suggests the Rus' attack both the beach and the river, despite the mountain between the river and the capital. The majority of the Rus' fleet attacks the beach and Harald, Bjorn and Erik lead the defense. Ivar, Hvitserk, Oleg, and their men manage to breach the block at the river mouth, defended by Gunnhild. The Rus' climb the mountain and surround the Viking army at the beach. Thorkell is killed and Harald is seriously wounded; when Erik tries to help him, Harald orders him to retreat. Bjorn continues to fight as his army is overwhelmed; suddenly, Ivar appears and stabs Bjorn with a sword. The Rus' celebrate the victory.