Askeladd and his men are attacked by the English army in the village where they had planned to camp during the winter. Askeladd captures their captain and interrogates him to find out how the English knew where they were, and discovers that Thorkell is fast approaching. The news of Thorkell's arrival sends waves of shock among Askeladd's followers.

Thorfinn and Thorkell agree to have a duel over the fate of Askeladd. Thorkell looks forward to facing off against Thors’s son, Thorfinn, and asks him what a true warrior really is. Meanwhile, Canute is suddenly ambushed while he attempts to escape, and has a dream about a certain individual.

After the assassination attempt on Canute’s life, rumors spread through York saying that the king is trying to kill Canute. As a result, the king is unable to issue any orders that would put Canute in harm, and Askeladd is pleased that everything is proceeding as planned. However, the tables turn when King Sweyn speaks. Meanwhile, Thorfinn is sent to prison as punishment for disturbing the peace.