The distinct clang of metal connecting rang through the crowd, followed by a gurgling of blood.

Vignir opened his eyes to see Wen Chou laying before him, his hands attempting to cover a gash in his neck to no avail.

Guan Yu extended his hand to the Viking, helping him up. "We need to get you two out of here." He spoke with urgency, keeping any of Yuan Shao's men that attempted to get close at bay, while Cao Cao's reinforcements clashed with their furious foes.

"Cao Pi...stay close" the severely wounded Vignir struggled to say, pulling his masters son close to shield him from harm "Fall back to the ship!" The generals cried out.

Yuan Shao's men dared not give pursuit, knowing full well they were still outnumbered...

Back aboard the longship, Vignir finally collapsed on the deck, fading in and out of consciousness as a physician attemped to clean and bandage his many wounds.


"...This man risked his life to save me. If he dies, you die." Cao Pi stated to the physician in both a show of compassion and ruthlessness.

While the men continued their duties, they knew full well that their raids were over for now, all of them seemed to listen for word on their commander's status as they guided the ship towards Cao Cao's camp...

The warlord himself was there as the ship made land, hoping to hear great stories of success, only to be taken aback by the sight of his now awakened bodyguard limping down the ramp.

"The rescues were successful my lord...both Guan Yu and your son are safe, while Yuan Shao's Yan Liang and Wen Chou are dead." Vignir reported, ignoring the pain to feed his pride "my men deserve a rest, that is the only reward I ask for."

Cao Cao gave a slight nod, the fall of Dian Wei replaying in his mind "And rest they shall. All of you have tomorrow free of duty, the wounded are to be given time to heal!" He shouts to the masses, before dismissing his generals.


The warmth of a fire felt good on Vignir's face as he awoke from yet another treatment. He sat up to a familiar voice.

"I wanted to thank you...you did more than we could've asked...I would also like to apologize for how I've treated you in the past."

His eyes focused on the young Cao Pi "I gladly accept your apology, but you needn't thank me. In time I will serve you as I do your father. It was merely my duty."

"In the last month, Yuan Shao's forces have been scattered, his sons are fighting each other, I've acquired a bride...all because of your actions. You're to be promoted as soon as you're fully healed. Father and I have the utmost respect for you now." Pi added before leaving the tent.


"Step forward, my guardian!" Cao Cao's voice echoed through his large tent, in his hands, a long sword which captures Vignir's warrior spirit.

The Viking stepped forward, bending his knee to his lord and lowering his head.

"You've done more than we could ever ask for. On account of your service, I promote you to General of the North and prefect of Xiapi, a city you're well familiar with. You will keep the people happy, protect my family and I when needed, and fight under my banner. I pray for your continued loyalty and devotion. Now Rise, Son of the North!"