21. With the aid of the emperor's elite troops, the Varangian Guard , the tribal horsemen were decisively crushed. 22. The Varangian Guard of the Byzantine Empire is the best known formation made up of barbarian mercenaries ( see next section ). 23. The Slavs and the Byzantines also called them " Varangians " ( Byzantine emperors were known as the Varangian Guard . 24. Bolli's later travels abroad with his brother Thorleik are well documented and notable for his role in the Varangian Guard . 25. During his time in the Varangian Guard Harald earned the titles of " manglavites " and " spatharokandidatos ". 26. In an obscure Harald Hardr�da, who allegedly cut down Peter II in the field of battle as a member of the Varangian Guard . 27. Palace and imperial guard units included the Varangian Guard , the obscure " Paramonai " and the " Vardariotai ". 28. Basil escaped with the help of his Varangian Guard and attempted to make up his losses by turning Samuel's brother Aaron against him. 29. These men formed the nucleus of the Varangian Guard , which saw extensive service in Battle of Cannae, the Byzantines achieved a decisive victory. 30. A smaller group consists of the four Italy Runestones which were raised in memory of members of the Varangian Guard who died in southern Italy.
