Harald Hardrada is returning to his homeland.<br /><br />Sailing north after escaping the clutches of the Byzantine Empress Zoe, he intends to claim his inheritance: Norway&#39;s crown.<br /><br />Danger has followed him like a close friend, and on the arduous journey home, he reflects on his life of adventure, tragedy and war.&nbsp;After joining the elite Varangian Guard, his wits and skills in combat have served him well.<br /><br />But will they be enough to fend off the revenge of the empress?