The Hard Ruler

Campaign mission sequence

Harald returns to Scandinavia with power and wealth, then contends for the thrones of Denmark and Norway. Mission order and scenario notes: 1. Kings and Cowards — Harald returns to Scandinavia and seeks a foothold in Denmark while Magnus contests his claim. Choose one of the three regions to subdue, build on the resources available, and decide whether to spend gold on a quicker submission or preserve it for the struggle ahead 2. Through the Slaughter-Reeds — Harald supports Magnus against Svein’s armies and navy while raids threaten the settlements inland. Protect Magnus’s Docks, deal with Thorstein’s northern raiders, and break Svein’s forces and naval bases 3. The Wayward Men of Norway — Harald seeks to reunify Norway while regional leaders and pagan factions threaten his rule. Defeat Einar and manage the loyalty of four territories through local support, protection, religious sites, and attacks on pagan altars 4. Blades Dyed Crimson — Harald’s raid on Hedeby is designed to weaken Svein and settle a personal score with Kalf Arnason. Keep Harald and his companions alive, break into the trade city, gather the loot, and uncover Gudrun’s hiding place 5. The Battle of Nisa — Harald’s pursuit of Svein turns into a naval battle around Nisa. Preserve the flagship, dismantle the rival fleet, and deal with Finn and Kalf while optional strikes can deny Svein shipbuilding and Finn cavalry

• 1. Kings and Cowards — Harald returns to Scandinavia and seeks a foothold in Denmark while Magnus contests his claim. Choose one of the three regions to subdue, build on the resources available, and decide whether to spend gold on a quicker submission or preserve it for the struggle ahead.
• 2. Through the Slaughter-Reeds — Harald supports Magnus against Svein’s armies and navy while raids threaten the settlements inland. Protect Magnus’s Docks, deal with Thorstein’s northern raiders, and break Svein’s forces and naval bases.
• 3. The Wayward Men of Norway — Harald seeks to reunify Norway while regional leaders and pagan factions threaten his rule. Defeat Einar and manage the loyalty of four territories through local support, protection, religious sites, and attacks on pagan altars.
• 4. Blades Dyed Crimson — Harald’s raid on Hedeby is designed to weaken Svein and settle a personal score with Kalf Arnason. Keep Harald and his companions alive, break into the trade city, gather the loot, and uncover Gudrun’s hiding place.
• 5. The Battle of Nisa — Harald’s pursuit of Svein turns into a naval battle around Nisa. Preserve the flagship, dismantle the rival fleet, and deal with Finn and Kalf while optional strikes can deny Svein shipbuilding and Finn cavalry.