Halli Sveinsson is the young son of Arnkel Sveinsson, head of the viking house aptly called "Svein's House," and brother of the man he views as the most annoying git in the entire valley. However, after a series of events following a minor practical joke result in his uncle's murder at the hands of Olaf Hakonsson, Halli sets off for revenge. He encounters a number of (unsavory and otherwise) characters on his journey, including a paranoid old hermit, an irritatingly greedy merchant, and a rather helpful, albeit confused farmer. Upon reaching the castle of Hakon's house, Halli proceeds to decide against murdering the currently sick Olaf, who nevertheless pursues Halli throughout the castle, accidentally catches his trousers on fire, and suffocates when a tapestry falls on him. The man's relatives soon bring an army to Svein's house, and Halli, his father dying, his brother as unimaginative as ever, is forced to lead the defense of his home.