Askeladd withdraws temporarily from the war against England. While searching for a new source of income, he encounters a skirmish among the Franks and hatches a plot to steal their treasure. Askeladd sends 16 years old Thorfinn, who has grown up into a cold-hearted Viking, ahead as a messenger.

In October 1013, King Sweyn leads a fleet of Danish and Viking ships in an attempt to take London Bridge of England. Askeladd's army, hired by the army of Denmark, was among them. However, after the betrayal of Thorkell the Tall, a Viking known for his overpowering strength, London Bridge has become impregnable. Askeladd tells Thorfinn he'll reward him with a duel if he's able to kill Thorkell.