Alexander Nevsky

The Teutonic Order launches a brutal assault on the city of Pskov, aided by the traitor Tverdilo. The siege leads to the city's fall and the massacre of its population. The betrayal marks a dark start to the invasion.

Tverdilo's treachery accelerates the Teutons' entry and siege of Pskov. The city endures a brutal occupation as its inhabitants suffer heavy losses. The traitor's role becomes a symbol of betrayal in the unfolding war.

The boyars and merchants of Novgorod beg Alexander Nevsky to return as prince and defend their city. The appeal is urged on by the monk Ananias, though his ally Tverdilo's influence lingers. Nevsky must decide whether to answer the call and mobilize.

Nevsky agrees to defend Novgorod and begins assembling the common people into a united force. He earns the support of peasants and townsfolk alike, expanding beyond the traditional boyars. The defense plans take shape as winter approaches.

Teutonic forces press toward Novgorod, threatening to crush the city's resistance. The looming clash sets the stage for a dramatic confrontation on frozen ground. The campaign intensifies as both sides prepare for battle.

The decisive Battle of the Ice unfolds on the surface of Lake Chudskoe. Nevsky's tactics and morale lead to a decisive Novgorodian victory over the Teutons. The frozen lake becomes a battleground that reshapes the war's momentum.

Pskov is recaptured by Novgorodian forces following the battle. Nevsky dispenses justice by freeing surviving Teutonic foot-soldiers while holding the knights for ransom. The outcome consolidates Nevsky's leadership and the city's resilience.

Tverdilo and the Catholic priest who blessed the burning of Pskov's children vanish from the scene as they are mobbed by onlookers. Their disappearance reinforces the moral turn of the war and the public's demand for accountability. The crowd's reaction marks a turning point in the story.

Two famed Novgorodian warriors, Vasili Buslai and Gavrilo Oleksich, emerge as leaders, competing for glory and the right to marry Olga Danilovna. Their rivalry pushes each toward acts of courage and skill on the battlefield. The contest also threads through courtship and alliance.

Vasilisa, daughter of a boyar from Pskov, joins Novgorod's forces as a soldier. She proves herself in combat and even saves Vasili by throwing him a weapon when he is surrounded. Her valor earns a place in the fighters' circle and the affections of war-torn comrades.

Vasilisa slays Ananias, the monk who incited violence against Pskov's people. This act marks a moral turning point as justice shifts away from fanaticism toward mercy. The deed strengthens the resolve of Novgorod's defense.

Gavrilo and Vasili are seriously wounded and found by Olga, who carries them from the battlefield. They recover under her care and acknowledge each other's valor with mutual respect. The bonds formed in battle begin to redefine their rivalry.

In the aftermath, Nevsky declares that true bravery comes from many people, including Vasilisa and Gavrilo. Gavrilo and Olga are united; Vasili publicly states his choice of Vasilisa as his bride, with her consent.