Prince Aethelwulf finds himself subject to the Vikings' battle master plan. Ecbert remains behind with a plan of his own.

Tensions mount between the sons of Ragnar Lothbrok as the Vikings continue to threaten the very heart of England. As the Great Army moves to take York, with King Aethelwulf and his family still in hiding, Heahmund—the warrior bishop—must rally the Saxons to defend the Realm.

As the celebrations for Ivar continue in Kattegat, grief hits Iceland and Floki must now make a fated decision. Harald's army approaches Wessex. A conspiracy grows against King Alfred.

Bishop Heahmund is wracked with guilt as he fights to renounce his passions. Viking will clash with Saxon on the battlefield leaving a key figure lost in the balance.

Bjorn achieves one of Ragnar's dreams. Ivar hatches a new plan while preparing for a divine arrival. In Iceland, a settler returns in a terrible state. King Alfred faces his greatest threat yet.