17. The Raft of Medusa

Harald assembles a fleet. Harald appoints Erik the acting king in his place, with Erik having the last say over Ingrid. As the fleet leaves, Erik makes it clear that he wants to take Harald's place as King for life and claim Ingrid as his. Ingrid starts an affair with Erik but secretly curses him using her witchcraft which makes Erik eventually blind. In England, Ivar suggests the Norwegian fleet take position at Eddington. The Norwegians then start to ravage the countryside to lure Alfred to them. A raiding party led by Ivar is attacked by English forces, but they are saved by Hvitserk. The raids eventually force Alfred to evacuate the capital while gathering his forces. On the Atlantic, the dwindling expedition led by Ubbe finally spots land.