Bjorn

Bjorn is violent, battle-loving, direct, and unusually loyal. The official anime profile distinguishes him from mercenaries motivated primarily by plunder: Bjorn enters battle because he likes killing.

His loyalty to Askeladd is deeper than that of the band's other warriors. Bjorn follows orders even when his comrades begin questioning their captain, and he does not withdraw his allegiance after hearing Askeladd express contempt for the Danish warriors around him.

For all his brutality, Bjorn wants something emotionally simple from his commander: friendship. His relationship with Askeladd reveals a vulnerable side largely invisible during raids and battles.

Bjorn is an accomplished Viking fighter skilled with sword, shield, and close-quarters combat. Even without enhancement, he can overpower multiple experienced warriors.

The berserker mushroom radically intensifies his combat performance. While under its effects, Bjorn continues attacking despite serious injuries and displays enough raw force to overwhelm groups of armed men.

The price is severe loss of judgment. Berserk Bjorn cannot reliably distinguish allies from enemies and may continue attacking until the effect wears off or something strong enough interrupts the frenzy.

Bjorn accompanies Askeladd through the ambush of Thors, the subsequent years of Viking warfare, and the Danish invasion of England. He commonly acts as Askeladd's deputy while Thorfinn undertakes more specialized missions.

When Askeladd's company begins fracturing during the pursuit by Thorkell, Bjorn remains one of the few men whose loyalty Askeladd never seriously doubts.

He is entrusted with protecting Canute when the band's internal conflict erupts. The berserker mushroom allows him to fight through many former comrades, but the frenzy leaves him dangerously indiscriminate and he suffers severe wounds during the confrontation.

His final interactions with Askeladd expose the personal bond beneath years of mercenary violence, with Bjorn admitting that what he wanted most was to be regarded as his captain's friend.

Askeladd is Bjorn's commander, longest-standing companion, and closest personal attachment. Bjorn considers him his only real friend.

Thorfinn serves in the same band and frequently fights near Bjorn, though their temperaments and motivations differ sharply.

Thors defeats Bjorn decisively during the Faroe Islands ambush despite Bjorn's considerable strength.

Canute is placed under Bjorn's protection when Askeladd's band fractures.

Atli becomes one of Bjorn's opponents during the band's collapse and severely wounds him while he is in his berserker state.

Thorkell's pursuit is the external pressure that helps tear Askeladd's mercenary company apart.