The snow falls, and a spider crosses it’s web. King Horik walks through the streets to Ragnar’s keep. Ragnar kills a rat, still intent to kill Jarl Borg. King Horik tries to reason with Ragnar, they need Jarl Borg’s men and ships for a successful raid. Ragnar has already started looking for another partner to replace him. Rollo questions if King Horik thinks that Ragnar should turn the other cheek as if nothing has happened, exactly as he has suggested before. King Horik instead suggests holding off the execution until another partnership is established. Ragnar accepts waiting, glad that at least they are still allies. It sounds more like a question than a statement. King Horik is still bound for revenge upon King Ecbert, and asks that Ragnar comes with him.

In the Kingdom of Wessex, a royal family arrives. King Aelle has come to meet King Ecbert, so that together the King of Wessex, and the King of Northumbria could band together and save England. Hails of God save England rend the air, even Athelstan joins in the proclamation.

Helga watches Floki work, pounding away. She bears good news, she’s with child. He takes pity on the child to have such a father. Helga thinks he’ll be a wonderful father, but he cries that he’ll be a horrible father. He comforts her that he was a fool, that they’ll all be happy. He tells Helga that they should be friends, that the gods will bless them. She wants their friends around, even Ragnar, but Floki does not want Ragnar spoiling this. He helped Ragnar rise to power, and now Earl Ragnar has everything in the palm of his hand, but he will not let Ragnar have the two of them.

Ragnar tries to find out what is troubling Bjorn. He is upset that he was not let in on the plot to capture Jarl Borg. Ragnar could not find him because Bjorn was with the servant girl. Bjorn just wants to just be kept in his confidence. Ragnar will decide how far down the rabbit hole Bjorn is allowed to go, he gives him some advice though, to think with the big head, not the small one.

Princess Aslaug is having a rough pregnancy she tells Siggy, she is afraid. She told Ragnar when he came to the farmhouse, that if he forced himself on her within the first three days of his return she would bear him a monster. She doesn’t know what made her speak the words, she spoke, but the gods chose the words. Siggy pays the guards for privacy. Jarl Borg tells that being Blood Eagle is the worst death of all, but it is astonishing to watch. He hears water being scooped from the nearby bucket, and finds King Horik has come to him. Jarl Borg drinks deeply, King Horik will take no pleasure in his death. Things change, Ragnar humiliated King Horik, and let his ambitions show, he wants to be King. Jarl Borg reasons that there is no reason for Ragnar to stop at his own death, his fame eclipses the Kings own. King Horik does not deny his words, asks what he would do in his stead. Jarl Borg would plot his escape, and kill Ragnar. King Horik bears a gift: the skull of Jarl Borg’s first wife. Jarl Borg clutches it to him like Gollum and his precious.

Ragnar speaks with the seer. He’s had dreams of Athelstan, but he does not know where he is, in Valhalla or hell. The seer tells him that he is in neither place, he is alive. He is physically alive, but his spirit is tormented. Ragnar wishes to know where he is. The seer tells him that he is with a man he knows, a foreigner, a king. A raven watches Athelstan, and he looks pleased.

Ragnar watches from behind a screen as his brother makes a grand show. After defeating his foe, Rollo asks what he plans to do with Jarl Borg. He knows his plan, but he told the king he would wait. Rollo does not understand why Ragnar keep making concessions to Horik, but he is king. Bjorn continues to pursue Porunn, wanting to know about her life, to tell her about his. But she continues to give him the cold shoulder, she’s a servant, always has been. Ragnar watches from the shadows, sees his son try to halt the girl with no luck. Princess Aslaug brings the equally pregnant Helga a drink. Both ladies are progressing quickly. She finds kindness in Princess Aslaug, and walks away quite melancholy. Floki tells Bjorn, that his uncle is quite heavy handed in his show of love, but real warriors hold back. Bjorn thinks Floki is wise, but Floki thinks he is only a joker. Siggy notices that Helga is heavy with child, and asks if  Floki is happy. Floki is complicated she says, as Ragnar watches them too. He spies on everyone friends, family, partners. Siggy asks if they will marry with Ragnar’s blessing, she says that Floki does not think that they need Ragnar’s blessings only those of the Gods. Ragnar’s eye continues to roam, and he sees Siggy report to King Horik that Floki is angered with Ragnar. King Horik doesn’t believe her, Floki loves Ragnar, and Ragnar slips deeper into shadows.

King Ecbert reveals that Ragnar is no longer alone in attacking their shores, but King Aelle still thinks he is the greatest disturbance to their world. King Ecbert agrees, thinks that they should be prepared to him, and if they have alliance, both prepared to rush to the other’s aid they will all be stronger. King Ecbert sends everyone from the room to talk to King Aelle alone. There is much chaos in their country, their neighbor is tumultuous, and if they bound together not only against the Northmen, but also Mercia, they could divide it amongst themselves. King Aelle thinks that after they conquered Mercia, there would be nothing to stop him from turning on Northumbria. King Ecbert admits that at the moment there is nothing that would stop them, and he proposes that they unite their houses through the marriage of their children. That is an offer King Aelle likes the sound of.

Floki moves rocks and uncovers the skull of his father. He also pulls a sword from the soil.

King Aelle walks his daughter down the aisle to unite her with King Ecbert’s son. Floki and Helga have a wedding of their own. The Royal wedding is a serious affair, but Floki and Helga’s nuputals are much more lively. The sword Floki dug up was part of the ceremony, as they exchange swords. They say their vows, but there is no talk of serving and obeying in their wedding, only swearing to the Gods that they want to marry each other. With rings exchanged, both parties find themselves married.

A man comes riding in to talk with Ragnar, and finds Rollo. He tells him that Ragnar would want to speak with him. Ragnar is busy playing games with Torstein, and nearly shoots his head off when Rollo brings the messenger to see him. The man tells him of Earl Inkstad, who has enough men and ships to raid. Ragnar has never heard of the man, and he did not want to waste the journey his messenger said, that Ragnar was still in need of an ally. Ragnar wishes to meet the Earl.

Rollo tells Siggy that a new ally has been found, she asks when he will arrive, which will be soon. Rollo wishes it were sooner so they could execute Jarl Borg. King Horik goes to visit Jarl Borg again.

Rollo’s love making becomes painful to Siggy as he wraps his hands around her neck. He asks why she sleeps with King Horik, and she tells him that she does it for him. He chokes her more for a moment, before releasing her. He does not know what King Horik could do for him, which his brother cannot. She tells him that right now they are allies, and in the event of a fallout, Rollo should be able to chose between the two. She reminds him that King Horik is a king and to never forget his power.

Jarl Borg asks what he has decided. King Horik has decided to go with Jarl Borg’s plan, that there are those who pretend to be loyal to Ragnar but are not. He tells him that after, they will kill Ragnar.

Bjorn asks Ragnar what a blood eagle is as Ragnar bathes. Ragnar describes the process. The offender is down on his knees, his back opened with knifes. His ribs are pulled away from his spine, opened, then his lungs are pulled out of his back and layed on his shoulders so they look like eagle wings. He stays like that suffering until he dies. Ragnar tells him that if he suffers in silence he may enter into Valhalla, but he screams he can never enter its portals. Torstein tells Ragnar that Earl Inksted has arrived, but is refusing to enter the great hall, instead sticking to the woods.

Ragnar and two others ride out to meet the Earl. Once he draws near he finds that it is not a man that he’s come to meet, but Lagertha. She did not give him her name, for fear that he would turn her away. Ragnar circles her as she asks after her son. He is happy, looking forward to going to England, as is she. He asks if she is truly an Earl, and she is, now his equal. She questions if it is difficult for him, but it is not. He asks how many ships she has, four, and over a hundred warriors. She asks if he accepts her as an ally. He tells her that if she is really Earl Inksted then the answer is no, but if she is still the Lagertha that he knows then the answer is yes. The chemistry between the two still sparks as they ride together, him laughing over her Earl Inksted.

Jarl Borg plays with a rat, hiding his wife’s skull when Bjorn comes to see him. Bjorn offers jarl Borg some food, and he devours it. He is more animal than man.

Ragnar watches Lagertha train. Princess Aslaug tells him that the turn of events were unexpected, Ragnar wonders if the Gods are playing a joke. Princess Aslaug does not think it is a joke. She like Lagertha, she tells Ragnar, she would rather be her, she is formidable.

Darkness falls, and it is time. Jarl Borg is unchained, and he grabs his wife’s skull. He thinks himself free, but he is not. King Horik stands in his path, Ragnar up above, with Floki and the others lurking beyond. Surrounded by fire, Jarl Borg removes his cloak, flinging it to Helga as he faces Ragnar. He falls to his knees, and prepares for the blood eagle. As Ragnar slices up his back, Jarl Borg does not make a sound. It’s hynoptically beautiful, the blood falling. As Ragnar hacks into his back with an axe, Helga faints. Jarl Borg’s arms fall, and Ragnar replaces them as he continues his process. Many of the women struggle to continue watching, but not Lagertha. She watches with neither horror nor disgust. The black eagle draws near as Ragnar completes the process and walks away. It is done.

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Siggy goes to the Soothsayer. She wants her own position back, she’s bitter. Everything she had, that she was is striped away, and her anger is eating away at her, threatening to drown her. He tells her that she should be grateful, Ragnar could have had her kill her when he killed her husband. She wants to know if the Gods will smile again upon her. He tells her that the Gods will always smile upon brave women, and she’s satisfied by his words.

King Horik comes to Kattegat. The people of the city watch the oncoming ship. Ragnar holds court, but the feast is slim pickings, they’ve had a hard winter, and had to burn their grain stores to rid themselves of Jarl Borg. Ragnar asks about the happenings after he left England, of Athelstan.  King Horik doesn’t want to talk about it. They were betrayed, and he hopes that Athelstan died in battle. Ragnar left him his friend, and he was left behind. King Horik calls Athelstan a worthless individual. Bjorn has fnd memories of him, but Floki tells them that they should rejoice his death. Ragnar asks for his future plans. King Horik wants revenge, and a new raid. Rollo wants to get in on the raid, and Ragnar too, but after getting revenge on Jarl Borg first. A servant girl spills wine on Bjorn, he takes notice of her, and she scurries away. King Horik reminds Ragnar of his agreement and dream, but they don’t have the men or ships to raid as they wish. He thinks that they need Jarl Borg that they should go back to the previous alliance.  Princess Aslaug whispers to Ragnar not to do this. Rollo asks who should go to Jarl Borg, and King Horik thinks it should be Rollo. He knows Jarl Borg better than anyone else.

Siggy says her goodbyes to Rollo. King Horik wishes him success. Siggy kisses him goodbye, all while Ragnar watches. Torstein wishes Rollo well, even though the words are hard for him. Off they go.

Siggy sits with King Horik and his son drinking wine before the fire. He hopes she does not mind him bringing his son to watch the game that he plays with her, that Ragnar tries to play with him. She invites him to her bed for a reason, tells him about Ragnar for a reason. She tells him all she does is for Rollo, that if he rises so does she. He sees that she needs his help. His attention turns to his son. He’s been with few women, and he wants his son to be with an experienced free woman. Siggy rises, toying with the idea before deciding to do it. She undresses and calls the boy over while King Horik watches the whole exchange.

Lagertha has returned home to her charming husband. Earl Sigvard remembers the good times when his hall was filled with laughter and fellowship. His wife has returned, though she left without his permission. He says that he is happy that she came back, though she did not bring back his stepson. The Women begin filling out of the room. She tells him that she wanted to stay with his father, and he’s old enough to decide, at least she came back. There was nothing she could so she says, his father is Ragnar Lothbrok. Sigvard insults Ragnar, and his parentage, unhappy that Bjorn chose to stay with his father, and Lagertha rises in his defense. He believes that Lagertha’s intentions are less than honorable, that she did not go to repulse a foreign invader like she told him, but because she is in fact still in love with Ragnar. He’s raging drunk, stumbling away. He tells her that she can sleep alone tonight, he’s made other arrangements. Lagertha lies alone in her bed, when she hears rustling outside. She blows out her lights, and a group of men come in. Lagertha takes them by surprise, beating them back, but she eventually falls beneath their blows. They beat her into unconsciousness.

Bjorn takes an interest in the servant girl who spilled wine upon him, Porunn. He offers to help her with her water buckets but she declines. She does take up his offer to sit and talk for a moment. He asks where she sleeps, with the other servants, and if she has a boyfriend, she does. Princess Aslaug notices Ragnar’s stares, and mentions that the girl is good looking, but Ragnar brushes it aside. She does not know why he submits to King Horik’s demands concerning jarl Borg. She says that she suffered much because of him, and that her father would have never stood for it, but her father is gone.

Rollo pays Jarl Borg a visit, on his table is the skull of his first wife, his advisor. Rollo lays out the deal to build the alliance between the trio, Ragnar, Jarl Borg, and King Horik. Ragnar finds the benefit in a united country, he looks beyond revenge, being a practical man. Bottom line is that they need Jarl Borg’s help to raid. Luckily the skull thinks he should go.

Athelstan works on his book, which King Ecbert finds pleasing, thinking that it is a divine gift. The pagans have nothing like the brushes and coloring. King Ecbert asks about the strange Gods of the Pagans, and Athelstan is quick to tell him that their Gods are old, and there were similarities to their own. King Ecbert shows him some Pagan paintings, feeling a kindred spirit. The paintings are beautiful, but the artist unknown to King Ecbert. Athelstan tells him that the Romans did the paintings, and they worshiped false gods. King Ecbert tells him to keep the conversation between them, that no one else would understand, that much knowledge has been lost with the Roman, whose Pagan Gods allowed them to rule the world.

Bjorn watches Porunn dance with ferocity. He tries to figure out which one is her boyfriends, but she shows no favor to any of the men watching.

Athelstan writes his scriptures when he begins to bleed. The blood comes out of his palms, from where her was crucified, and around his head where his crown of thorns was. When Æthelwulf tells him that his father wishes to see him, the blood disappears. King Ecbert wishes to show him more Roman treasures. The room is full of Roman scrolls, all of which he can read. King Ecbert gives him the task of preserving the scrolls, but in secret. He warns that if Athlestan ever tells anyone about the scrolls he will let them crucify him.

Jarl Borg returns with Rollo and the people of Kattegat sit on the shore waiting his arrivals. During the night’s feast, Jarl Borg sits down with Ragnar to make total peace. He wishes him to know that he will never have reason to doubt him again. Ragnar admits that it was not his idea to band together, but King Horik’s. He realizes what could be gained from the alliance, and then welcomed it. King Horik and Siggy have a little chat, and he’s still surprised that Ragnar went along with the alliance. He also thanks Siggy for making his son a man, but she reminds him that she’s no whore. Perhaps not for his sons, but he for him she is. Floki overhears it all. When King Horik leaves her side, Siggy asks if he can keep a secret, to which he giggles and tells her no.

Sigvard asks his battered wife what is the matter with her at the night’s feast, she does not talk or smile. He grabs her and kisses her temple. He’s not done punishing her. He wants to do better. He tells the men that his wife has the most beautiful breasts, that they are like the goddess Freya’s breasts. When he goes to expose her breasts, she stabs him in the eye with a dinner knife. Lagertha has had enough. Sigvard howls in pain, and when one of his men approach, Lagertha still has her guard up, but he silences Sigvard’s screams but removing his head.

Princess Aslaug tells her children a bedtime story about the Giant King and King Horik prepares for bed. He spots  Ragnar outside with an eagle on his arm. Aslaug continues her story about Loki eating every scrap of meat. Rollo leaves Siggy taking his ax and refusing to tell her where he’s off to. Loki ate all the meat, and the strangers as well. Jarl Borg rests uneasy in the barn. His strange eagle prophecy is repeated. The Giant king proclaimed Loki the loser. Aslaug’s son doesn’t wish to sleep because in dreams you cannot tell what is real. Torstein locks the barn door and tells the men inside if they want to live to stay silent. Rollo lights the barn on fire.

Floki is not where he was supposed to be, and Bjorn was not with him. Bjorn was off saving his servant girl, Porunn. She offers her his bed to sleep in, and she tells him that she cannot sleep there. Her wants don’t matter she tells him, and Bjorn doesn’t want to order her. She takes down her top and ask if that is what he wants.

Rollo and his men pay Jarl Borg a visit. He was warned that Rollo always looks for revenge. One of the men go to hurt Jarl Borg’s pregnant wife, but Rollo stops him. Instead making her watch Torstein and Floki beat him. King Horik is upset over the commotion, and Ragnar apologizes for the ambiance of Kattegat. The men arrive dragging in Jarl Borg, who isn’t dead but wishes he was. King Horik asks why he’s done this. Forgiveness was never an option for Jarl Borg, a man who tried to kill his family. Ragnar tells him that since he consorts with the eagle he will draw a blood eagle on his back. Jarl Borg tells him no, but Ragnar is intent to draw a big spread winged eagle.

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Lagertha is brought into Ragnar’s home. She is the last person Rollo expected to see, but a very welcome sight. Rollo is overjoyed to see his nephew, and Lagertha embraces Siggy warmly. Floki cannot be happier to see Bjorn. It is a tense greeting with between Lagertha and Princess Aslaug, but Lagertha makes the most of it. Lagertha sees the babe’s snake eye, and she looks grim. With the pleasantries out of the way, Ragnar and company look to drive Jarl Borg from Kattegat. Rollo suggests making food scarce, and Ragnar assigns himself and Bjorn to the task.

A former nun comes to see King Ecbert. She hesitates to show her face, but Ecbert insists. Her face is mutilated by her husband, who claimed she was unfaithful. She tells the King that she was not. He asks for Athelstan’s council on the matter. If she were a free woman, they would make judgment on her behalf. The King tells him that as her husband he has dominion over her, but Athelstan tells him not in Pagan laws. Pagan laws are not always superior, but in this case they are. King Ecbert finds in her favor, and saves her from the brand.

A group led by Ragnar and Bjorn draw close. Ragnar sends the others in to distract the keep so that he and Bjorn can slip in and complete their mission. As a child Bjorn constantly asked to join his father, and now he gets his chance. The men creep in, sounding their horn, which makes the dogs go wild. It sounds like far more are approaching that there really are, and Ragnar and Bjorn creep inside with little worry. The men though find enough trouble, and a few of them are lost in bloody skirmishes, where they take down more than their share. As Ragnar struggles to light a fire to destroy the food stores, one of the men arrive. Although wounded, he says he is fine, and Ragnar and Bjorn burn everything. They help get their man out of the keep as it all goes up in flames.

Jarl Bjorn considers hunting down Ragnar, but his pregnant wife does not want to left alone. He leaves her anyways. Over the river and through the woods, they hunt for Ragnar and his men. Jarl Borg spots his company, taking only a small group forward when he spots one of Ragnar’s men. The man stands half naked, and he’s nothing more than a dead prop. Jarl knocks him over. Floki taunts him across the field. He sounds the horn, and Ragnar, his men and Lagertha come out.

Princess Aslaug sees the bloody battle between Ragnar and Jarl Borg’s forces. While Bjorn, Lagertha, Rollo, and the others are in the middle of the fray, Jarl Borg hands to the outskirts. Ragnar gets him in his sights, and Jarl Borg signals a rush. Many of Ragnar’s men are taken by surprise, and Bjorn loses his weapon for a moment, before recovering. Lagertha is holding her own, as is Floki. Rollo is in all out beast mode. Ragnar is rushing headlong to meet Jarl Borg. He throws his ax at Jarl Borg, and Rollo rushes for his back. A retreat is called, and although blooded, Ragnar can call this a win.

Ragnar and his men march back to Kattegat, and the people rush out with open arms. Floki is ready for celebrations, and many are happy to see Lagertha as well. Funny, no one is rushing out to greet Princess Aslaug.

King Ecbert’s son, Aethelwulf, asks about his history if Athelstan was really taken in North Umbria. He was. Aethelwulf thinks to take him back, but Athelstan no longer sees the point, his abbey and all he knew are gone. Aethelwulf asks if he’s a pagan now, and suggest that he go to mass. Athelstan has a vision of Mary, its actually the woman with the abusive husband. She wanted to thank him, and she bestows a kiss upon his cheek. Athelstan is losing his marbles just a bit, he should have gone home with Ragnar when he had the chance.

A sacrifice is to be made for the victory over Jarl Borg. Rollo prepares to behead the man, but Ragnar stops him, giving Bjorn the honor instead. In the presence of the Gods, and in their honor, Bjorn beheads the man in one stroke. Floki wipes the sacrificial blood on his face, and Rollo honors Bjorn blooding him as well. Lagertha doesn’t look pleased with the result, but she’s soon surrounded by friendly faces again.

Ragnar goes to see the soothsayer to talk about the women in his heart. He does not want to choose, he wants them both. The Soothsayer tells him a story about a woman who could chose any man she wanted, but she had to chose the man by his feet. Ragnar doesn’t see the correlation. He tells him that it matters not. That he should not chose by their feet, or faces, for in the end he’s only fooling himself if he thinks it’s his choice to make.

Athelstan attends mass, and the visions continue. Flashes of war, and King Horik come before him as he takes mass before the people like a good catholic, but he is not a good catholic any longer. He does not swallow his bread.

The rain pours down, and once again Ragnar is warm is his former home. Bjorn plays with his younger brothers, and Ragnar enjoys the sight. Aslaug remains fearful of her prophecy. She asks what he plans to do about Lagertha. He tells her that it is her decision, he’s never had much say in the matter. Aslaug wonders if he likes Lagertha more, since she in more like him, a warrior. He admits that he does not want either woman to leave. Aslaug needs reassurances of his love to stay, which he gives.

Ragnar comes to Siggy’s home, Rollo and Siggy head out into the rain to give Ragnar and Lagertha some space to speak. He asks what she plans to do in regards to their son. She’s unsure, since Bjorn is happy there. Ragnar suggests that he should stay, they both should. She points out that his wife would be unhappy, which he cannot deny. He agrees with her.

Siggy sees that Ragnar is still in love with Lagetha, and she wonders if Rollo is as well. A part of Rollo may be, but not this part of Rollo he tells Siggy.

Athelstan prays to God for guidance, to be filled with the holy spirit, but he doesn’t feel it. Something runs by, and Athelstan grabs his candle to see what it is. It streaks by again, and when he’s finally able to get a good look it’s a mouth of monstrous teeth. He pulls away, before going in for another look. There’s nothing left under his bed. His devils are plaguing him.

Ragnar holds court over his people in the keep with the princess on one side, and his young sons on the other. Tovas brings news about King Horik being attacked. Ragnar asks about Athelstan, but he knows not of him. The bad news has taken far too long to reach him. Lagertha and Bjorn arrive, and Lagertha has something important to say. Ragnar asks if it should be said in private, but Lagertha wants it known before everyone. She knows that Bjorn wants to stay with his father she says, she gives her permission for Bjorn to remain with his father, but she has to go back to her husband, though it is clear that she does not want to go. She is leaving her son in the village’s son. She tells Ragnar to look after Bjorn, that he is all she has left and leaves. Ragnar puts a comforting hand on Aslaug’s arm, but she doesn’t look happy. Aslaug thanks Lagertha for what she has done, but Lagertha tells her that the debt has already been paid. Her strapping son Bjorn helps her onto her horse, and he tells his mother to “not take any more shit,” before she rides off. This isn’t the last we’ve seen of Lagertha, not by a long shot.

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Rollo leads Ragnar’s family to a remote village. The Princess does not find the accomidations acceptable. She wants somewhere more inviting and comfortable looking. Siggy tells her that they will survive it, that it will make them stronger, and her sons stronger too.

Jarl Borg tells the conquered people that he will be a fair ruler, that by breaking their agreement, Ragnar forfeited his right to rule. Furthermore, he wants Ragnar’s wife, children and brother, and whoever delivers them will be paid their weight in silver. Ragna is now decreed dead to these people. The soothsayer watches Jarl’s speech.

Jarl Borg goes to see a soothsayer, he asks if he foresaw what happened. He replies that he only sees what the Gods allow him to see, and only tells what he is allowed to tell. Jarl Borg asks for his own future. He sees an eagle that hovers over him, and that he is an eagle. Jarl believes that the Eagle is a good sign. The Soothsayer tells him that it is, and that the Eagle is his destiny. The Soothsayer puts his hand out, and Jarl licks it. That has to be the grossest custom ever.

In the Kingdom of Wessex, King Ecbert’s advisors discuss with him the Vikings. Since the Vikings wish to talk, he decides that they should talk. He plans to trade hostages to ensure a safe meeting. King Ecbert will hand over his son, Erlendur, for a hostage of equal value. He asks for his son’s blessing and agreement, which he gives willingly.

Rains sweep the land, and the building in which Ragnar’s family is calling home leaks badly. Ragnar’s children run amok, and the Princess isn’t coping well, worried more about the dirt, than their safety. Siggy tells her that they will manage, but she insists that the boys will fall ill in this place, and she will not stay.

The Vikings approach, and a group of King Ecbert’s men move to meet them. Erlendur disarms, preparing for the trade. Ragnar is traded for the prince, and really King Ecbert got the better deal. Ragnar is taken into the keep and he looks around, taking it all in, admiring the artwork. He asks who made the sculptures, and the man tells him that no one knows, some say giants use to live on the island. Ragnar is brought before King Ecbert, who seems to take an unusually high number of baths. He invites Ragnar to join him. Although an odd request, Ragnar strips down in an awkward display, with King Ecbert watching. Now equal, they can chat. King Ecbert asks why he does not go home. By staying he is opening himself up to a large attack. Ragnar does not care about treasure he says, he care more about the land, and wants to know about farming, Ragnar is a farmer after all. King Ecbert wants something in return for a land offer. Ragnar and his warriors could help him to fulfill his ambitions.

Ragnar reports his findings back to King Horik, but he’s suspicious of King Ecbert’s intentions. One of King Horik’s ships draw near, but it isn’t a social call that brings Thorvard calling. He delivers the bad news to Ragnar, his lands are lost, and his family missing, all by the hand of Jarl Borg.

Ragnar packs his belongings, with his family missing, he is off to find them. King Horik plans to stay behind, wishing to continue the negotiations. He wishes to have Athelstan stay and translate for him, and although Ragnar says that he is free to decide, he’s disappointed to hear him say he will stay, having been practically family himself. Athelstan points out that Ragnar has always thought these contacts were important. He asks if he really wants to do this, and that if he changes his mind his friends will be leaving soon. Athelestan watches Ragnar and his friends leave him behind. A scout sees half the forces leave.

Bjorn brings Lagertha news of Jarl Borg’s attack, of Siggy and Princess Aslaug fleeing with the children. Bjorn urges her to help Ragnar when he returns to take back what is his. It is not her new husband’s quarrel, so she does not think he will help, but Bjorn thinks she should ask him.

Rollo comes with news. He’s been talking with nearby families, trying to rally people. There are too few to take Jarl on head on, but Rollo thinks it is enough to make Jarl feel insecure, if they raid his supplies, and not meet him head on, but do sneak attacks. Siggy is overjoyed by the change she sees in Rollo. With his brother’s forgiveness he is a new man. He knows Ragnar will return, and that he has always loved his brother. His self hatred was corrupting him. Siggy makes a move on Rollo.

Lagertha wishes to talk to her husband, but he does not want to talk about Ragnar. He doesn’t want to discuss the man who use to own her body, now that he owns her. Perhaps being a sister wife would have been better than being saddled with Sigvard. She tells him that it would be his interest to intervene. She tells Jarl will bring his relations to his doorstep, that he will be next. Sigvard, tired of talking throws his wife to the ground and tries to rape her. She throws him off her. Bjorn hears her tell him to never treat her that way again, that she is no whore. She finds him outside her door, prepared to attack and sends him to bed telling him that Sigvard will not harm her.

Athelstan watches as King Horik’s men get frisky with the nuns. He hears their cries as he goes into his tent. He turns to the tome stolen from the monastery, and one of the images of Christ bleeds, covering the page in blood. Athelstan throws the book away from him.

King Ecbert prays before the alter when news comes of Ragnar’s leaving. With the forces divided, King Ecbert thinks that his prayers have been answered.

Princess Aslaug tries to draw her son away from Siggy as they watch an animal slaughtered. He refuses to go and the pampered princess cries about it. As she walks away she sees Ragnar in the distance, she closes her eyes, and he was nothing more than a vision. Helga spies ships, Ragnar really has returned. She knows where his family is, but urges him to rest. She goes to attend Floki. The sea was rough, they lost some ships, pulled down in turbulent waters.

In the Forests of Baer, the Vikings use their boys to hunt game, but find themselves the hunted. Athelstan makes it away, barely, while many others fall. Out of the trees he hides out in the grass, perhaps the only survivors. He stays there through the night, and eventually the English find him. He’s surrounded, and he surrenders.

In the rain, Helga leads Ragnar to his family. Ragnar races ahead, and Siggy is almost surprised to see him. He finds the children well and safe. Aslaug tells him that she knew he was coming back, she foresaw it three days previous. He greets her with a gentle kiss, and looks upon his youngest Son. He asks the name of his child, Sigrid Snake in the eye. She had warned him of the eye, but he tells her it is a blessing. They tuck the children into bed, he feared he would never see them again, but Aslaug knew he would. He tries to get reacquainted with his wife, but she tells him that they cannot for three days, yet another prophecy. Rollo arrives, and Ragnar goes out to meet him. Ragnar wants to attack Jarl Borg immediately, but Rollo cautions him. With so many men lost at sea, they don’t have much of a chance with a head on battle. Rollo warns with the news of Ragnar’s arrival and Jarl Borg’s bounty they aren’t safe for long.

News of Ragnar’s return reaches Kattegat and Jarl Borg. He’s pleased to learn of Ragnar’s return. He tells his people that the Gods will reward anyone who takes down Ragnar, they reward anyone who pretends to be a God himself as Ragnar has. Jarl proclaims that he will kill Ragnar.

In Wessex, Athelstan is bloodied and beaten, and is being prepared for crucifixion. He could have gone back home with Ragnar. Instead he finds himself nailed upon a cross, crucified and left to die as the English rejoice. The bishop proclaims him crucified in the name of Jesus Christ. King Ecbert sees the crucifixion, and asks if they must really kill the former priest. The Bishop believes he should be, but King Ecbert orders him to be cut down.

Floki spies an army coming, and sounds the alarm. He believes them to be Jarl Borg and his men come to finish them off. Ragnar goes out and meets them alone. It’s not Jarl, Its Lagertha and her men. She heard of his troubles, and brought warriors to help, including his son Bjorn. He embraces his son, glad to see him, but never thinking it would be under these circumstances. He gives his son a once over, he is a large strapping boy. Bjorn tells him that if his sister had lived she would have been strong and wise as well. Bjorn tells him that for a long time he carried nothing but memories, but with his father and mother by his side, he feels reborn. It looks like he isn’t the only one that feels that way, as Lagertha releases the breath she was holding.

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In Wessex, England Ragnar and his men come across a large Christian Church. Athelstan tells them that not only is it a place of great pilgrimage, it will also hold a large treasure.

King Ecbert has been preparing for the Vikings since they came ashore through Northumbria. He’s seen them before with some of his travels, and he is ready to deal with the ruffians, the pagans head on. He assigns his son to rally the nobles, and others as spies. He believes that the Vikings will stay close to their ships, that they will avoid a large confrontation.

Lagertha watches a hawk. She looks well, and has a new husband. She refuses to allow her new husband to insult her son. He claims to love her son, but Lagertha believes otherwise, and tells him. He back hands her and then asks for forgiveness. With that sort of attitude, he’s likely to wind up with a knife in his belly. He tells her that he’s loved her and that he does love her son, and if he’d be willing to meet him half way, he’d ensure the boy had a good future.

Ragnar’s men draw close to the church, ever vigilant, as they creep through the field, a friar spots them and sounds the alarm bells. The people try to get to safety, as the soldiers move to defend the church, but they are greatly outnumbered. The Friars take everything of worth and move to hide it. The men approach what looks to be a deserted keep, before the soldiers charge. It’s hardly fight, and the Vikings make it through the gates. As they approach the gates, Athelstan warns that it could be a trap. Shields up they proceed with caution, but find no trap. The place is empty of everything, including treasure. Flocki asks where the treasure is, and Athelstan tells them that it is at the altar. King Horik sees nothing more than an empty table, but below, there is much underneath. They break open the floor and find treasure and tombs. Athelstan tells Ragnar of his saints, and the beliefs surrounding htem.

King Horik goes through the church, and discovers a hidey hole, and slaughters the helpless people inside. Athelstan finds a great treasure of his own, some scrolls. A friar tries to stop him from adding to the scroll, and Athelstan kills him. A bishop sees what he’s done, and Athelstan tells him to hide, but he sees that he use to be one of them. He tells him that one day he will be caught and burned for his actions. Floki overhears the bishop and chooses to take him as a prisoner. Floki takes him to King Horik who chooses to punish him for preaching against their gods, he orders the man tied up for a bit of fun. Athelstan asks after the bishop. Horik shoots an arrow at the bishop.

Ragnar searches the kitchen and finds more treasure. He spies a child, and rather than exposing the child, covers him safely.

Floki takes aim at the Bishop and fires. Ragnar watches. Four arrows protrude from his body. Before another can be fired, Athelstan puts an end to the games, and gives the bishop his last rites. He slits his throat and sends the man off to death.

Bjorn is all grown up, and he’s grown to be very handsome. Bjorn asks why Lagertha would let Earl Sigvard, her husband treat her so. He asks if he’s hit her before, if she’ll let him do it again. Lagertha tells him that it will never happen again, and Bjorn vows to kill him if it does. He asks what Ragnar would say, and she tells him he would say nothing. He reminds her that she was Ragnar’s wife and she should always be proud.

Siggy goes to see Princess Aslaug’s newest child, another boy, just as she prophesized. His name is Sigart, and also as she prophesized he has been born with a snake in his eye. This worries Siggy.

King Ecbert has heard of the attack already, as well as the bishop’s death. The lack of protection has been brought up, but King Ecbert has a very large kingdom. Now he knows where the pagans are so the sacrifice was worth the price. More sacrifices will likely be made.

Floki comes to taunt Athelstan more, he gives Floki a book. He doesn’t believe that Athelstan has converted to their fate. He gives him a holy hand as well.

Ragnar asks King Horik how he is enjoying himself. King Horik finds this a very rich land, but Ragnar is looking at more than just the gold. He tells him that the land is rich as well, there are plenty of opportunities for farming on good land that could feed all their people. King Horik doesn’t think the Saxons would relinquish their land as easy as their gold.

Götland, Scandinavia. Jarl Borg takes a new bride. His first bride died shortly after the wedding due to poisoning of the wine. Borg orders the wine to be poured, and asks who will test it. His new bride offers to be the sacrificial lamb, but Borg could not bear her loss, and he tests the wine himself. He announces to his guests that they’ve all been insulted by being forced to sit out of the raids. Although he blames King Horik for the insult more, Ragnar will pay the price. With Ragnar gone, they will raid and take his lands, and repay Rollo’s treachery with the axe.

A group of horsed soldiers and priests come to meet with Ragnar and his men. He’s been sent by King Ecbert, and asks how long Ragnar has decided to remain in the kingdom. Ragnar tells him it depends on his offer to leave vs. his offer to stay. Ragnar wishes to stay and to make peace. King Horik cannot let the messengers go peacefully, and kills the Bishop’s escort.

Bjorn boycotts dinner, he doesn’t feel like eating. Earl Sigart asks what he can do to make the boy happy, if he should raid a neighbor so that Bjorn can show off. The others laugh at the prospect, but he truly does not want the boy unhappy. He asks that the Earl let him go off and live alone in the woods without someone doing everything for him. He wants to know what is essential to life, what is important, the prospect makes Lagertha happy, but the Earl turns him down flat. He tells him that it will make him look bad. He uses his pledge to Lagertha as further reason to refuse.

Kattegat. Viking ships draw close. Siggy runs to warn Rollo of the ships coming. Rollo tells them to rally the troops, they’ll soon be under attack. Rollo tells Princess Aslaug that Jarl Borg is coming back to attack them since Ragnar broke his agreement. She asks his plan, and he plans to fight. All of the best fighters are gone, Siggy grabs her shield. She’s no Lagertha, but she wants to fight. Rollo begs her to take Princess Aslaug and her children and hide them in the mountains, and await on the Gods’ decision. The Princess and her children follow Siggy off, headed to the mountains. Rollo and the fighters prepare for war. Rollo stalks the beach keeping Borg in his sight. The men disembark from the ship, and Rollo gets to work slaughtering as many as he can. The warriors of Kattegat put up a fight, but many fall in the struggle. Borg sets his sights on Rollo, as he calls for the men to fall back. Borg and Rollo go head to head, before they’re pulled a part. Rollo pulls all he can back towards the mountains, but as Borg’s men draw closer, they see it’s a trap. The fighting is halted. Borg calls out Rollo telling him that he cannot win, asking for his surrender. Rollo with little prompting goes, his first duty is to protect Ragnar’s sons. The last stand is made, and the rest fall, but Rollo and Ragnar’s family is safe out of Borg’s hands. Borg may have Ragnar’s keep but it’s a shallow victory, one that he should enjoy while he can.  

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