Chapter 10
Thor Meets the Contender
Odin and the men finally saw their way to Brimir's camp beyond the ridge. His men came out to greet their King, with hands across their hearts and on bended knee. Brimir and his tribesmen had long waited for this day. Odin and Thor dismounted their horses, Thor looked about but could not find Loki. It was just as well he knew his brother was somewhere making his magic and mischief. Just when he thought he would not be here until it the contest was over Loki arrived. He dismounted quickly and stood by Thor's side. He whispered into Thor's ear, "brother do not hesitate for it is the will of the Gods, for if you do not fight her, the family who has defended our borders will fall into shame, you must do what needs to be done." Thor's countenance fell, for how could he take the life of one who had done him no injustice.
Odin stepped forward with a wave of his hand the servant brought the scroll just as it was about to be placed in his hands he stopped. He motioned towards his son, Thor. He leaned forward and said, "as you become King, my son you will soon realize that there are duties that must be done, no matter how detestable they may seem to you." He then handed the scroll to his next in line.
At this moment in time the stories of his childhood came back to him of a grand lady who died in battle only after having been named the Queen and Iron Maiden. For the sake of Lady Aada he would not let down her blood line. Thor opened the scroll, he found his voice strong and clear, "I, Thor, Son of Odin, on this day declare a duel with the hereby named, Lady Hvonn, daughter of Queen Ingveldur, the Iron Maiden of the Northern Borders, I declare this duel a fight to the death."
Queen Ingveldur arose first, followed by her husband Lord Brimir. Brimir called for Hvonn's shields and armour. The weaponry were of his choosing he molded and cast them himself, he would make sure that the blades were sharp. Runa came to Hvonn, "Sister there is much to say and so little time." Hvonn stared into her sister's deep blue eyes, "I know Runa, try not miss me, but know that I am not afraid." Runa closed her eyes and nodded her head. They stood and waited for her to be outfitted in her armour. When it was complete. Queen Ingveldur came from her tent with a helmut in her hands. As she approached she looked at her daughter, and without a word placed the helmut on her head. She slowly walked away. Her father came next and handed her the swords. He said to her, "were you expecting tears?" Hvonn scoffed at her father. He told her, "it was a gift, your grandfather made it for her when she was fought with Allfather, believe me Hvonn she would never part with it!" Brimir touched his daughter's cheek, "you have made us proud, there I have said it for the both of us!"