He signalized the commencement of his reign by a military excursion to oriental Bulgaria.

Descending the Volga in barges to the mouth of the Kama, he invaded, with a well-disciplined army, the realm he wished to subjugate.

The Russians approached the city of Ochel.

It was strongly fortified with palisades and a double wall of wood.

The assailants approached, led by a strong party with hatchets and torches.