Rognvald rules in Kirkwall over the winter, believing Thorfinn dead, but in the spring, while staying on Papa Stronsay, Thorfinn and his men turn the tables, taking Rognvald by surprise, just as he had surprised Thorfinn.

Rognvald escapes the house, but is tracked down, given away by the barking of his lap dog, and killed by Thorkell the Fosterer.

Even with Rognvald dead, Thorfinn is not entirely secure.

The saga recounts an attempt to make peace with Magnus Olafsson, who had sworn vengeance for the death of his men in Thorfinn's attack on Rognvald.

Magnus is at war with the Danish king Sweyn Estridsson, and dies before he can take any action.

Magnus's uncle and successor, Harald Sigurdsson, better known as Harald Hardrada, is more friendly towards Thorfinn, and makes a peace, accepting Thorfinn's gifts.