Chapter 8
Hi all I am back and just to let you all know I am trying something new when it comes to updates. That being I am working on my stories in order oldest to newest. Unless I feel inspired that is. So, if you look at my stories your be able to tell what I am going to work on next. Now with that said lets get to Q&A.
Addlcove I have been told that many times but me and my current beta kind of suck. We come up with great ideas and dumb ones as well, but we just suck at beta work. If you know anyone who would be willing to do it please tell me.
Drakena you just going to have to wait and see.
Mystery56 I don't like giving anything away but that is a thought that I have been working on. Not sure if I will go that way just yet.
Naruto420 because I need to fill the word up with other characters you will see several characters from Assassin's Creed Valhalla. Now how big their parts will be in the story is pending.
Now that is it for Q&A. Always remember my story is based heavily off ideas of other people. So if you have a thought on where this story should go or just something to add for the hell of it go ahead and tell me. As I will always think it over. Hope you all like the newest chapter.
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-Wessex-
At the end of the day, one had to look after their own interests above those of others. This Ecbert understood better than most. As a king he knew that only a strong and wealthy kingdom could hope to fend off its rivals. And while not poor, Wessex was not the most powerful kingdom of the three major kingdoms in England. Not yet that was, anyways. With Mercia suffering from the loss of its last king and dispute over who be the next king turning violent. His only real rival was King Ælle in Northumbria who to be honest Ecbert didn't feel was much of a rival. While the man wasn't a complete fool, sense coming to power, he had done nothing to make Northumbria stronger. A fact that was proven by how these Northmen had raided his lands nearly uncontested. And there would be more Ecbert could tell that much during his talks with Rollo and Frode.
The way they saw it Northumbria was a fat pig ready for the slaughter. And once they attacked Mercia, if they hadn't already, they would find an even richer land to be picked clean. The truth was the only reason his land weren't being attacked was because they had already found their hunting ground and were now looking to sell their plunder. A lucky roll of the dice perhaps or was it the grace of God? Whatever the case, it didn't matter because this sudden windfall served his interest for now. So, in the end he made a deal with Rollo and even signed a trade agreement with the man. Who would take it back to his brother to be signed in turn. The agreement was for five years and while not started outright a non-aggression pact was agreed upon as well.
Still Ecbert felt like he was missing something. Like there was some bigger plan at work in the shadows. What it was he was unsure but for now it was more beneficial that he agreed to this trade deal then not. He would have to remain on the lookout however for any type of deceit. Both from outside forces and those closest to him. As he could tell with ease that not everyone agreed with his decision on opening up trade with the Northmen. They kept quiet about it for now, because even if they couldn't see the benefits of this deal they were not stupid enough to think showing weakness in front of them was wise.
His own son, however, was proving to be surprisingly cordial with the Northmen after a less than agreeable start. Oh, he still didn't like them that much was clear, but warriors could recognize other warriors and a cold type of respect was forming between him and Rollo. As for Frode there was less respect there but that was because Frode often asked his son questions he couldn't answer. Even biblical questions, which Frode had a lot of knowledge on. Having admitted to reading it. Something that came as a surprise to some and sheer disbelief from others. But when questioned by Bishop Edmund he had answered all the questions he was asked with ease.
Yet despite reading it Frode had admitted to not understanding it and happy talked with the bishop about it. Something Edmund was happy to do, the fool. He didn't realize Frode was using him to get information on the state of Christendom as a whole. For what reason Ecbert didn't know. Perhaps to raid it, perhaps to trade. Whatever the case he would have to have a talk with the bishop about sharing information he shouldn't.
Later when it was time to leave Rollo and Frode got onboard their ship and cast off with no problems. It was like Frode thought the offer of trade and riches was too great for Ecbert to pass up. It was like Ecbert had said in the TV show would sup with the devil if he would show him how to achieve his earthly goals. Not that he saw his brother and him as the devil per say. They were more of a means to an end and so long as we didn't raid his lands he was happy to play ball with us. That is till he felt like he didn't need them anymore.
Looking at his older brother Frode asks, "So what do you think brother?"
Knowing very well what his brother was asking Rollo answers, "Cunning, very cunning. We will have to watch the man very carefully in the coming years."
"And his son?" Frode asks.
"Not as cunning, but we would be fools to underestimate him." Rollo says to me.
"He doesn't like us." Frode states as a fact.
"No, no he doesn't but we can trust he will be like a wild dog and bite us if we turn on backs on him. I will make sure to send only a few ships at any time to the ports of Wessex. Send to much and he may try and seize our ships." Rollo says.
"It may also be a good idea to let the ships captains know to always keep a few ships out to sea at any given time. If something does happen, we will know about it and respond exactly as we said we would." Frode says in a cold voice.
Which makes Rollo smile, "I look forward to the day they give us a reason to respond then."
-Mercia-
"Shield wall!" Ragnar yells out as another group of poorly armed men run towards them. Clashing into their shields only to fail to budge them. Swords clash against their shields and men scream but it is all for not. Soon he gives the order for the wall to push forward and under the combined might of his men and women, the men in front of their shield wall are pushed back.
Then the killing begins as those who tried to stop their raid fell to their swords, and axes. It is short work and soon their enemy starts to flee but don't get far as the archers in the back pick off those who try to run. When the battle ends Ragnar takes measure of the battle and sees he has only lost one man in this battle. It was their 3rd battle this past week and the 2nd town they had raided with next to no losses. And all do to the help of women who was currently clapping her hands in excitement on top a hill where she watched the battle take place.
Ragnar would admit that at first, he had his doubts that Princess Kwenthrith was in fact a princess but after she led them to the first town they raided. Well, he had quickly changed his mind. The next thing he wondered, however, was why was helping them. Was it to stay out of slavery, to not be taken as so many of the men wanted to do to her. No, that was not it and soon he had gotten his answer as a man who led the first attack on them showed up. Upon his death Kwenthrith quicky found his body and pissed on it then proceeded to cut his cock and balls off and shove them in the dead man's mouth.
It took little effort to get the women to tell him why she had done such a thing. Needless to say he approved of her actions and had even promised her that if she led him to another town that was ruled over by the one of the many men who raped her, he would do this best to take him alive. A promise head had managed to keep with her as a man is dragged before him. Arms bound behind his back and bleeding slightly from his head but very much alive. Calling out to the women he watches as Kwenthrith with a gleeful smile on her lips runs down the hill. It was the type of smile that would send a shiver down a lesser man's spine.
"Princess Kwenthrith is this one of the men that raped you?" Ragnar asks while pulling hard on the man's hair hard. Making him cry in pain.
Giving the man on the ground a twisted smile Kwenthrith says, "Ah yes Earl Wolnoth, it's been a long time. Last time I saw you had me on my knees and shoving your cock in my mouth. Oh, how times have change huh?"
Hearing this Ragnar shoves the man down to the ground and say, "Well here you go have fun."
"Oh, I can assure you Jarl Ragnar I will. Can I however ask you to have some of your men help me, however. I fear the fat fuck would be too heavy for me to move on my own." Kwenthrith asks sweetly.
"Very well, One Eye, Erik help the princess with this Earl Wolnoth." Ragnar commands as he goes to join the rest of his men. It doesn't take to long for the screaming to start and Ragnar thinks the women doesn't waste time.
When he rejoins the men, Ragnar looks over at Thorkell and smiles when he sees the man smiling widely. Of all the things he worried about must during this raid losing control of Thorkell and his men were at the top of them. But upon seeing the smile on his face Ragnar knows there is no longer anything to worry about. While they had yet to find anyone truly powerful to fight these small-scale battles had clearly help settle the man down. It was like his brother once said, sometimes quantity over quality was a quality on its own. Not always mind you but sometimes as was the case right now.
Looking at the loot his men had taken from this last raid Ragnar thinks about his next move. In truth they had more than he had thought they would get thanks in large part to Princess Kwenthrith. More than enough to fill the boats he had taken with him on this raid. They really should be headed back to the boats and not press their luck anymore. However, the temptation to keep going was great seeing as they had only lost three men in the battles they had fought so far. A few injuries as well but nothing too bad. So, it was possible to keep going. Yet he was hesitating. Not out of fear but because his mind was thinking of something else. Something he had been thinking since the last raid on Northumbria.
This land was rich, and not just in gold or silver. The land was fertile and rich in crops. Everywhere they had gone fields of wheat could be seen. More wheat than all the farms his family-owned combined grow. And in those wheat fields he saw a vision of his people's future. In Norway life was hard and made for hard men and women but was it necessary. If they could conquer and settle these lands life for his people would become easier. Was that not a goal worth reaching for?
Yet Ragnar would not let this way of thinking cloud his judgement, however. If the Salt War had taught him nothing else, it was that war an expensive and dangerous affair. Your allies today may not be your allies tomorrow. Sides were changed often in that war as each clan looked to benefit the most from it. Till eventually the side he was on simply outnumbered the other side. As their enemies were not weak by any means. It took the sheer weight of numbers to win the war along with a few key betrayals.
Now while he wasn't worried about betrayals so much, each time they had fought these Englanders he and his men had been outnumbered. Was it possible they could field an army so great that they could simply wash over them like a wave out at sea. If that was the case, they would have to do what they did in the early part of the Salt War and find suitable land to build defenses on and find ways to restrict the movements of their enemies. It was a type of warfare Ragnar was unsuited for but the type Frode was. He was after all the one who built the forts they used during the war. Many of which were still being used as checkpoints for their trading routes.
He would have to talk more about it with Frode when he returned home. After all the unexpected boon of Princess Kwenthrith was something, they needed to talk about the most. He couldn't very well let her go and she made it quite clear already she had no love for her country men or most of her family. Especially her uncle who she wanted dead more than anything. The question was how could they use her and if she would truly be of use at all down the road.
Meanwhile at the same time Kwenthrith was thinking somewhat along the same lines. Not about anything military wise as she had no clue about anything that had to do with the military arts. But about the unexpected situation she found herself in. She was a captive in all but name and while she was sure she wasn't destined to be a slave like her servants were, she wasn't free either. It was quite a fall from grace so to speak. A princess to a would-be queen to whatever she was now to these people. She had proven her worth however that she was sure on, but she wasn't welcomed either.
That left her in a bit of a dilemma, as she wasn't stupid, she knew she was going with these people to wherever they came from. Far away from her home and claimant to the crown of Mercia. Something she had been aiming for since she killed her brother Kenelm. When she went with them because there was no escape from these men and women, she would lose her war with her uncle. Leading to him becoming king, something she detested a great dear. Yet did she really lose or did the war between them just change?
No matter if her uncle won or not his hold on power would be weak and from what she learned from Jarl Ragnar raiding was a way of life for these people. If she could provide them with information, she could see to it her uncle's rule no matter how long would be an unpleasant one. The only real question was how did she get herself into a position that would see her return to Mercia and become queen? Or if failing that find a suitable enough husband to have children with who could one day return to Mercia and claim the crown in her stead?
Perhaps she could convince them to give her a part of the loot. While she didn't do any fighting, she had led them to the last few towns. And with how they clearly saw women they may be inclined to give her something for her help. She would wait, however, to bring that up. After all she was well aware that when men had their blood up they were far from the most reasonable of sorts. For now, she would instead enjoy what they had given her already. She thought to herself as she slowly cut of the Earl's cock. While at the same time hoping he would live long enough so she could make him eat it.
-Kattegat-
About a week later while at sea Kwenthrith had learned something about herself that came as a bit of a surprise. She had enjoyed her time on the sea. She couldn't explain why but there was something about its vastness that she liked. Perhaps it had something to do with what Ragnar said his brother had once told him. That the sea had no memory. It had its gods to them but itself had no memory. Past, present and future were all just forgotten to its waves. To her it was a nice thought and somewhat true as she had finally slept peacefully for the first time in who knew how many years while on her water.
She would miss it now that they had arrived at their destination but was sure she would come back one day. Till then, however, she looked upon her new cage. Was it a cage? Whatever it was it was impressive to the eyes. Honestly she didn't know what to expect at first, when she had gotten on these people's ships and sailed off with them back to their homeland. Mud huts, broken buildings maybe? Whatever she was expecting it wasn't a town that looked as big as Tamworth and from the smell clearer to boot.
Once they were docked and off the boots the men and women in the crowd cheered their return while moving quickly to help them unload with joyful faces. Women hugging their men and their men hugging and kissing them back. Little boys and girls run up to their fathers or mothers to welcome them home. It was a touching thing to see that would have moved even the likes of Kwenthrith. That is if she was paying attention to it. But she wasn't as her eyes were too busy taking in the sites of this town and of the two men who were waiting at the end of the dock for Jarl Ragnar.
Two giants among men, which she was starting to feel was normal among these people. Each one a head taller than Ragnar himself but short compared to the man she came to know as Thorkell. The tallest one who to her looked like a brutish bear of a man had a short full beard and a hard look in his eyes. While the clearly younger one, was clean shaved with a softer face but eyes fully of intelligence. And while all three of them were very different from each other you could tell they were brothers.
Walking towards them she stops as Ragnar introduces her.
"Brothers may I introduce you to Princess Kwenthrith" Ragnar says to them.
With a raised eyebrow Rollo says, "Princess Kwenthrith of Mercia?"
That surprised her, Jarl Ragnar upon meeting her didn't know her by name but her brother did. That was interesting, "You know of me?"
"Yes, I do Princess. My brother and I just got back from a trading trip to Wessex. I learned of it from one of the traders there." Rollo said and it was true. He had learned long ago that knowing who was who when dealing in trade was a must. So, learning the names of the Mercia royal family was just good sense.
"I am Rollo by the way and this is my younger brother Frode." Rollo adds.
"Princess." Is all Frode says to her. Not in an unkind way but in an indifferent way that hides what he is truly feeling or thinking. Which are both surprise and intrigue.
From what he remembered Princess Kwenthrith didn't show up till later on in the 2nd season of Vikings. Yet here she was now. That was unexpected but not wholly unwanted. Things were already moving far from what the TV show had shown. The question was how to use her for the benefit of the Norse folk. That Frode didn't know.
Sometime later in the longhouse while his brother sat in the high seat as was his right as Jarl, discussions were quicky being had about our unexpected guest. Everyone currently in the longhouse had mixed options on what to do with her. None more so than Lagertha who, while not the jealous type, didn't seem to like the princess upon first meeting her. Frode couldn't say he blamed her as after the princess had gotten Ragnar to agree to give her some of the loot as her share for helping them in their raid, she had proceeded to show her more sexual side. Showcasing a type of openness that was not at all uncommon in Viking society. Though the princess was smart enough to back off when Lagertha put herself in-between her and Ragnar.
"I say we send her back to this uncle of hers. Ransom her for her wright in gold and silver." Lagertha says to everyone in the room. It is an option that didn't sound too bad to many of the men in the longhouse.
"I agree though she clearly doesn't weigh all that much. Woman is twig, no meat on her bones at all." Erik Marteinn says much to the amusement of everyone around them.
Which wasn't surprising as in Viking society a fit physique was a must for both sexes. Not necessarily a warrior's body but one that spoke of an active life was the most desirable. You only had to look at Eriks own wife who was on par with Lagertha when it came to fitness to understand why Erik didn't think much of Kwenthrith.
"We can't send her back." Ragnar says from his seat. "She is too valuable to be traded for just gold or silver."
"Oh, and how is that Ragnar?" Lagertha says in a challenging voice. Clearly unhappy about something more than just Kwenthrith showing interest in her man. She didn't like being left behind on this last raid despite knowing it was necessary.
"She is a princess and according to her own words has a claim to her kingdom's throne. If we helped her become queen she could give us food maybe even land to farm or was I the only one who noticed the sheer amount of grain Rollo and Frode brought back with them from Wessex. Their land is clearly lush and ripe for farming. Who is to say that we can't demand that Kwenthrith give us land in exchange for our help." Ragnar says grabbing everyone's attraction.
While the Viking's way of life had changed drastically thanks to Frode and the knowledge that was granted to him by Odin. Something like the production of food had not changed all that much. While the people of Kattegat and some of their allies where slowly changing over from the old ways of farming to that of four-field rotations. Many farms had refused to change over which kept food production low. And while they grow more than enough food for Kattegat herself and her outlining villages that didn't mean anyone here had forgotten the hard times before Frode ideal was put into action. So, they were always on the lookout for new and better ways to increase their food stores. Such as the Icebox that helped to keep food fresh for days and the underground supply stores.
Yet while all these changes help curve hunger in Kattegat, more food meant more mouths to feed. Ragnar had no idea just how many till he had become Jarl and how had a newfound respect for Haraldson. For all his faults the man had curved the flood of people coming in from elsewhere to Kattegat who were looking for food and jobs. Often doing this by limiting the number of people he would let settle in Kattegat, settling them in other villages outside of Kattegat or sending them to their closest allies to help increase their numbers. All of them smart moves that help Kattegat grow even more over the years.
There was real worry however was that soon the amount of people coming to Kattegat would outnumber the amount of food they could produce. England in his mind could fix that as the grain Rollo and Frode brought back made up more than ¼ of what their family's farm grow this whole year.
"I agree with you brother, but I have to tell you we don't have the manpower to win Princess Katttegat the Mercia throne. Well win it maybe but to keep it no. It would require a significant force of men to ensure our peoples interests in Mercia. Which would weaken us greatly." Frode says to his brother.
"Not to mention the cost of doing so. We may have found a new trading partner in the King of Wessex, but the man is a snake and his son a wild dog. I wouldn't trust them to not turn on use if we made a play for Mercia." Rollo says as well.
"Has this king showed interest in Mercia?" Ragnar asks.
"He would have to be a fool not to. Even just talking with my fellow merchants and those in his court let me know that Mercia is truly weak right now. Apparently, the last king's father was an idiot who let his men basically do what they liked, and while their harvests have been good, they take more than what they need from their own people to sell to others. Leaving them to starve. High taxes and overly giving to this God of theirs has left the common people poor. They have little fight in them and are perfect for conquest. At least that is the feeling I am getting from what I have been told." Rollo says to his brother now Jarl.
Hearing all this leaves Ragnar with a lot to think about. Having gotten the measure of these English warriors himself Ragnar had to say they were already very weak. Easy to beat, he didn't think they would prove any challenge to an army he led to Mercia but that said nothing about when he left. If he so wished Ragnar was sure he could put an army of 500 if not more men to go and fight for Princess Kwenthrith but he couldn't stay long. Even if they won the Viking's were freemen, they did not have to stay if they did not wish. And like Rollo said could Ragnar trust these new trading partners not to stab them in the back if they got the chance.
"I suggest you stick with the plan Ragnar, call for a meeting between our allies this coming Blót. Have them come together and sure up our alliance. Then mention to them this desire to place Princess Kwenthrith on the Mercia thone. With there backing maybe we can invade Mercia and hold it." Frode says but doesn't believe it himself. It would take more than just the alliance of a few Jarls and Petty Kings to hold Mercia.
Letting out a sigh Ragnar nods his head and says, "So be it. Frode send out the messengers. Hopefully they will answer the call."
-Weeks later-
Letting out a deep sigh Forde not for the first time thinks he really was too good of a man. Don't get him wrong, Thyri was a wonderful girl and would make a fine wife. It was just marriage was something he never really thought about. Seeing as in many ways he had never forgotten about the love of his life from before. He was no virgin mind you but well at night when he was sleeping he would often dream of what could have been. Which was strange as he was never the type to hold on to what could have been before. For in his mind, it was pointless to do so.
Life was full of disappointments and letdowns. Roads full of broken dreams of those who came before and who would come after. So, it was truly pointless to hang on to a dream that would never be. He would make do with Thyri and treat her with the care a husband should. Which should prove to be easy seeing as while Haraldson had spoiled her she was not without value. Thyri was strong, but soft, smart but not overly ambitious. She liked the simpler things in life and loved to dress in fine jewelry and clothes and her mother had taught her the value of money. She would be a good wife. Of that Frode had no doubt.
They were thoughts that were mirrored by Thyri. Who looked at her soon to be husband while holding the sword that she would soon be giving to her new husband. She was under no delusion that this wasn't a marriage of love. Her father, (may he be dining happily in Valhalla), had taken it upon himself to ask Frode to marry her should he die. His effort to make sure she and her mother were taken care of if the worst should pass. Which it did and so here she now stood. With that said it wasn't a bad match. Much better than it otherwise could have been.
Plus, she had known Frode all her life and knew he would be a good husband to her. So long that is as she was a good wife. While they were never the closest of friends per say she had gotten to know him over the years and knew he hated idleness. To be his wife she would have to prove she had real value and help him out with whatever his goals were. That was why her mother made sure to teach her, her numbers and how to read the runes. Who, if she was being honest, was perhaps a better match for Frode than she was.
But her mother was busy getting closer to Rollo. She had to give her mother her due. While she didn't like the fact that she was moving on so quickly after her father's death she understood it. To make sure they were safe and could continue to live the lives they were used to, her mother was willing to do nearly anything.
After exchanging swords with her new husband, they say their vows to the Gods and kiss in front of everyone. It wasn't a passionate kiss full of love and care, but it didn't need to be. Everyone in the crowd knew what this was and while the mood was festive. Few actually congratulated them at the feast held in their honor. Instead turning to the food and drinks in celebration.
Later on, that night Frode look into the fireplace in his home. Finding a type of solace in the flames before him. So much has already changed and will continue too so. The future that was so certain at the start had become more muddled as time passed. The next few months would see the biggest of these changes yet. Over the last week he had talked with his brother about something more than an alliance. Something that would truly bring their people together. Now that the west had been opened their world had changed forever. To face this change the Norsemen would have to unite more than ever if they were going to survive.
"What are you thinking about husband?" Frode hears the voice of his new wife Thyri. Who was curtly wearing a loose robe of wool after taking a bath in the cooper tube he had in the back of his house.
Looking at her with her hair damp and wet Frode had to admit she was a beauty to behold. Much like her mother was when she was 17. That was actually kind of funny. Back in his old-world men where always trying to get together with younger women. But here he was doing it by accident. Such a strange time he lives in.
"It's nothing. Just trying to look into the future." He says to his new wife.
"My mother told me once that you couldn't see into the future." Thyri says.
"And she was right. At least I can't see into a person's future. If I could then your father and brothers would still be alive. Alas the Norse will not allow me to see such things." Frode says with some sorrow in his voice.
Looking at him a bit sadly, Thyri knew that at one point her husband and father were close. "You really loved my father, didn't you?"
Looking at his wife Forde says, "He was my friend. If I could have found a way to keep him and Ragnar from coming to blows, I would have. And your brothers, oh how I wished I could have saved them from their fate. But the Norns wouldn't let me see their end either."
Looking at husband Thyri wondered was this the first time her husband had ever spoken of such things. The first time he ever showed that he was truly mourning the loss of her father. And what about her brothers. Did anyone know he mourned them too? Most likely not, seeing as for as long as she had known him, Frode had never spoke to anyone more than he needed to.
Hearing the sound of fabric moving Frode looks away from the fire and to his wife who has opened her robe. Then slowly let it fall from her shoulders. Letting it pool on the ground around her. Revealing to his eyes her pale skin, flat tone stomach, full tits and the valley leading down to her womanhood. She truly was a vision to behold.
Reaching down and taking his hand, Thyri remembers something her mother told her about her father. How in the daylight when all could see him, he had to be the Earl. He could not show weakness, least those around him started to question him. But at night with all other eyes shut he showed his weakness to only her. That was the duty of a wife. To provide a place where her husband could let down his guard and show his weakness if only for a short amount of time. So, she led him to their bedroom where she would help him forget for a time his worries and fears for a time. No words needed to be said as they laid together for the first time.
-The next morning-
When morning came Frode opened his eyes and looked upon the naked form of his wife. He would be lying if he said that after one night of passion, he felt anything towards the women in his arms. But last night had been wonderful and had helped him forget about his worries for a time. And learn something about Thyri he didn't know before. The woman was a literal firecracker. Really it was hard to believe the women was a virgin before last night. Maybe she wasn't but it didn't matter. What did was that he wouldn't have to worry about an uptight wife.
Getting out of bed slowly Frode goes to wash off their last night activities. While indoor plumbing was still aways away from being a common thing in everyone's house, due to the importance of the Salt Pools Frode had made it a priority. Because the wealth of Kattegat depended heavily on the pools an underground pipe network and sewage just made sense. And while primitive by the 21st century standards Frode had a feeling no one currently on earth had a more advanced one. Even Kattegat, advanced as it was, couldn't boast what the Salt Pools had. That, however, was by design. While not many people knew it Frode had poured much of his own fortune into these pools. All so that if the worst came to pass for his family, they could hold out for a long time. Seeing that even the weakened seaside wall couldn't be breached easily.
Hearing the sound of his new wife getting up Frode walks out to see her standing there naked. Her hair a mess and looking in a word well fucked.
"Good morning." Frode says to his wife.
Looking at her husband Thyri smiles softly, "Morning. You are up early husband."
"Yes, well I would have liked to stay in bed with you for a bit longer but there is much to do." Frode says to her.
"That is right I was meaning to ask. My mother always said you were busy even when you didn't look it. Is there anything I can do to help with?" Thyri asks wanting to be helpful.
"Your mother is right. I am always busy and as for helping me you can. Your mother always said you were smart, and I know for a fact you are. So, I need you to take charge of the Salt Pools. Normally Thorkell would be in charge, but I have a feeling we will need him elsewhere soon."
Looking excited at hearing this, Thyri didn't expect to be put in charge of something so important so soon. She had thought he would just tell her to take care of the house and cook breakfast. Though she was a bit nerves seeing as she remembered how her father reacted with his cousin fucked up one of his pools. They were so important to the wealth of Kattegat that said cousin was lucky to get an ax to the head and nothing more for his fuck up.
"I can do that, but I am afraid I really don't know that much about how they work." Thyri says.
"That is fine you will have help. Speaking of he should be showing up right about….now." Frode says and then slow but heavy knocks are heard on the door.
Looking at her husband with questioning eyes Frode just goes and opens the door and Thorkell the Tall falls in.
"Water…..water Frode." The great warrior begs in a weak voice as the little boy, Thorfinn, if she remembered right walks in over him.
Shaking his head Frode looks at his wife and says, "Thyri can you get some water for this dumbass."
While at first surprised to see the mighty Thorkell fall into her new home like he did, she quickly gets herself together and gets the man some water. While Thorfinn goes and takes a seat at the table. Seeing this she naturally felt this must have been a regular thing.
"Here you go," Thyri says as she hands Thorkill a jug of water.
Which he quickly takes and starts to drink greedily, "Ahhhh thank you."
"You're welcome," Thyri says as she watches her husband go and start a fire to start cooking. Which she quickly moves to help with.
While cooking was seen as women's work, she was not foolish enough to think she was her husband's equal. Seeing as many of the new meals that where now made in Kattegat were introduced by him. So, she had a lot to learn but knew she would learn quickly as her husband showed her what to do. It was kind of nice and a bit strange to her. Especially with Thorkell in the background moaning in discomfort. Was this her husband's daily life she wondered.
Soon they are done cooking and Frode tosses a plate of eggs and bread in front of Thorkell who says, "Ahhhh I hate eggs."
"Drink less and you won't have to eat them so much." Frode says as he takes his seat after putting a plate down in front of Thorfinn.
At this Thorkell just moans even more and eats what is in front of him in silence. His head pounding too much to complain.
After a while Frode speaks up and says, "Eat well Thorkell we have a lot to do today."
Rubbing his head Thorkell says, "Ohhh come on Frode can't you give it a rest for just one day. You just got married and are rich. Can't you just take the day off and fuck your new and pretty wife."
Hearing this, Thyri face turns just a bit red. Not really in embarrassment but at what had taken place last night and now good sex was.
"I will have plenty of time to fuck my wife later Thorkell but little time to prepare for the Jarls who will soon be showing up. We must make it clear that staying allies with us is in their best interest. To do that we have to make sure everything is working as it should." Frode says to him.
Which actually makes Thorkell smile a bit but not at the the thought of working or of the Jarl's visiting but because of one thing that Frode said to him before the raid on Mercia. "Frode do you still believe Kjotve won't show?"
"I do." Is Frode's simple answer.
Looking a bit puzzled at hearing this Thyri asks the obvious question, "Why wouldn't he show up?"
Looking at his wife Frode asks, "Did your mother by chance tell you that your father way paying off Kjotve to not break the alliance?"
Nodding her head, a bit in shame at this, Thyri has mixed feelings about this. Upon learning that her father was paying that dog Kjotve anything she felt ashamed of him. Yet at the same time, thanks to her mother and her father somewhat teaching her the way of politics she understood it. After all the alliance was the reason why no one dared to raid Kattegat after the Salt War. And those who did make an attempt of it never lived long. With that said however she didn't feel it was worth her father's honor.
"Good then I can make this short. The reason he won't show up is because Kjotve has long been wishing to break the alliance." Frode says much to her shook.
"What….why would he wish to do that? Doesn't he also benefit from the alliance?" Thyri asks.
"He did but not in the way you think Thyri." Frode says to her.
"You see Thyri before the Salt War had even started Kjotve had started a war with the Raven Clan." Thorkell adds in.
"The Raven Clan….is that not the Clan lead by King Styrbjorn Sigvaldisson and one of our strongest trading partners?" Thyri asks.
"That is right. They were also one of the first to join with us in the Salt War. You see Thyri when Kjotve found out that the Raven Clan had joined us he was on the outs with King Froh who was one of the main leaders of our enemies at the time." Frode says to her.
"Oh, I see, so because he had attacked the Raven Clan and was an enemy of King Froh he worried that the Raven Clan would use the alliance to attack him." Thyri says, showing that she was quite clever like her mother.
"That is right Thyri, and he was right. That was exactly what King Styrbjorn was seeking to do. However, before anything could come of it Kjotve had joined the alliance." Frode told her.
"How he did he do that?" Thyri asks not understanding how it was he was able to join the alliance if he had already made enemies of one of its members and enemies. One would think he would have been killed before he would be allowed to join.
"That would be because of Jarl Hallfrid Thorfastdottir." Thorkell says.
Getting perplex look on her face Thyri asks, "Why do I know that name?"
"She was your grandfather's first ally in the war." Frode says to her.
"Oh right…. wait didn't you kill her Thorkell?" Thyri asks now, remembering the name. As her father had talked about her once and about how she died early in the war.
With a smile on his lips Thorkell says, "That is right. She was a greedy cunt but brave."
"That she was and the reason Kjotve was able to join the alliance." Frode says remembering the women well.
While he had little to do with decision making back then Frode was independently wealth at the time and paid well for people to give him information on who was who in their part of the world. Not quite a spy network but the beginning of the one he was still working on to this day. The women herself was in a word unextraordinary and ugly as one could get. Both inside and on the outside. Coming to power on the heels of her husband's suspicious death she had used their only son to rise to power. Only for said son to also die under suspicious circumstances. After words she ruled with an iron fist and greedily spent on what passed for luxury in this world. Only able to do so because at the time she was Kattegat closest and strongest trading partner. Her greed, however, knew no limit and so when Kjotve came to her with gold in hand asking to be allowed into the alliance she made sure he was able to.
"I don't understand how she did that." Thyri asks.
"People often forget that Kjotve is not only known as Kjotve the Cruel but also Kjotve the Rich. So, he went to her with bags of gold and well you can guess the rest." Frode says to her.
"Ah I understand he bribed her much like my father did him." Thyri says not liking the dishonor in it all but now understood now a dog like Kjotve was allowed to join the allies.
"It's a lesson you should take to heart my wife. All men and even women have a price. It's only a question of what that price is." Frode says then turns to look at Thorfinn. "Thorfinn what are you are doing here by the way. Shouldn't you be with my brother's family."
Looking up from the food he was eating in silence he looks up at Frode and says, "Someone had to help get uncle home."
"Hey, I am not a child, I could have gotten home myself." Thorkell says to his nephew.
"Of course you can uncle." Thorfinn says with a roll of his eyes as he pats his uncle's side in a similar way an adult would when patronizing a child.
Something that earns a giggle from Thyri and laugh from Frode. They had all seen Thorkell drunk and to say it was ugly to see would not be telling the whole story. In a world he cried when he drunk too much. About what no one knew because at that point you couldn't understand what he was saying. But it was equal parts joyful, and sadness.
"Well, no matter the reason you are here Thorfinn you can help out. My wife needs to be shown now to run the salt pools." Forde say to him and Thorfinn just nods his head. The boy was so used to taking orders from Frode that he didn't question it when Frode told him to do something even though he wasn't in his care anymore.
"Thorkell, me and you will go to the new forges. While two of the three we built have burnt down one is working as planned. The sooner we get the steel coming out from it the better. We have to show very clearly why breaking the alliance is a horrable idea." Forde says while thinking of the future and what it could bring for his people and family.
-Just over a month later-
There really wasn't much to say about her stay in Kattegat, Kwenthrith thought to herself as she walked down the cobbled stone roads. Well, there was but at same time not a whole lot had happened as winter was upon them and things were slowing down. As see by how the people were getting ready for the snow and ice that would soon fall. That wasn't to say, however, that nothing was happening. As everywhere people were going about their business doing whatever was needed to prepare for winter and the spring that followed.
Even now she could see women going to work on their looms. Making cloth for the ships they would be using next spring. As well as rope, cloths and what not. It was amazing, not the work itself but the amount they were making. Unless she missed her guess, they were turning out more cloth in a month's time than her own people did in several. She never really paid much attention to such things so she couldn't be sure about that. But her mother before she passed had taught her how to work on the loom and while she never liked it, she knew how long it took to make cloth on one. Needless to say, she couldn't hope to make the amount these women were.
And that wasn't all. All around her Kwenthrith saw a society that was far more advanced than her own. Some would even call it magical. Well, those who were too stupid to realize that there was nothing magical about what these people where doing. It was just the product of simply using their minds for things other than farming, fighting and prying to some imaginary being in the sky. She may not have known what it was they were doing or how they were building the things they were, but it wasn't magic.
An option that was shared by the most unusual of people. Now she knew there were other Christians here. They were slave of course but they were here. Well all of them were slaves except one. A monk by the name of Athelstan was as far as she could tell the only other free Christian around. Now while she was technically a Christan, she didn't believe in God or the so-called savior Jesus Christ. After all what type of God would allow a child to be raped by her own brother and for said brother to be turned into a Saint. No, God that was who, but with that said he was the only one she could really talk to.
It wasn't because these people were rude or anything. It was just that she didn't know their language. She was taking steps to fix that of course but she hadn't gotten their language down just yet. Leaving the former monk, now free men thanks to Jarl Ragnar as the only person she could really talk to. There were others but she got the feeling the Jarl's wife didn't like her much, Ragnar didn't trust her, Rollo didn't care enough to get to know her and Frode was always busy. As for everyone else who could speak her language, well she had gotten to know some of them. Thorkell being first among those as the man said he liked her spirt and took the time to teach her how to use a knife. The boat builder Floki was another she had somewhat come to know. At first, he was hostile towards her for being Christan but as soon as he learned she hated her own faith as much as he hated it, they found common ground.
Anyways it was from Athelstan that she learned more about these people and now advanced they were. And how forward thinking they were as well. Granted a woman was still subordinate to her husband or father but for the first time Kwenthrith could remember she didn't feel so trapped. Even as a princess she being didn't have that many more rights compared to the common born women. But here a free woman, as she was looked at by the people had the right to own property, decide her place of residence, choose her husband, and even learn to fight. The last of which she didn't understand as Kwenthrith fully disagreed with the notion of women fighting in battle. But the most important of all was that in certain circumstances a women could rule.
These people could and would accept a woman's right to rule. So long as said women proved to be wise, brave and honorable. Now she may not have been the first or last but she was the second. Something she had already proven to these people for standing up to their Jarl with no fear and helping during their raid on her kingdom. The only question was would it be enough to gain the support of these people to help her reclaim what was her's. She didn't know but soon she would find out as a meeting between the Allied Jarls and Kings was about to take place.
Only a fool couldn't see how important this meeting was. Her fate, among other things would be decided at this meeting after all. Would the alliance she had learned had stood for over 10 years hold strong or would it fall apart. She hoped for the latter as from what she found out if it held, they could bring a sizeable force to Mercia to help her claim the crown. But she would have to be careful. These people were not stupid. If she over played her hand or tried to betray them in any way. Well, a quick and painless death was more than likely out of the question.
Arriving at the docks Kwenthrith arrives just in time to hear the horns sound out as ships started to arrive. Ships that were flying banners that were not of House of Munsö. The Jarls and petty kings had arrived. Looking around for a spot where she can get a good look at those who will shortly be arriving Kwenthrith spots Jarl Ragnar and his brother Frode standing on a small platform overlooking the docks. Going and joining them she stands next to Frode. The only brother she hadn't got a feel for yet but who according to Athelstan was the one who came up with most of the things the people of Kattegat enjoyed.
She doesn't speak as she watches on with them as the first ships docks and a large beard man steps off the dock. Followed closely by a young boy of perhaps 16 winters and a girl who could be no older then the boy. She doesn't have to ask who they are as Frode speaks up and tells her without her needing to ask.
"Styrbjorn Sigvaldisson of the Raven Clan King of Rygjafylke. That is his son by his side Sigurd Styrbjornsson and his adoptive daughter Eivor Varinsdottir." Frode says to her.
Hearing scratching across from her she sees Ragnar looking guarded. Which she came to learn was his normal way of standing, "They have grown big since last we seen them."
"That they have brother. I have heard word that they have gone on their first raid and each have been blooded. Some say that they had each cut down at least 5 warriors." Frode says.
"Impressive." Ragnar says.
When the next boat docks a tall man, about the size of Rollo with long blonde hair steps off the boat. He is in a word fearsome looking.
"Jarl Siegfried of Jämtland. A mighty warrior and one of the few who have crossed blades with Thorkell and lived to tell the tale." Frode says to her.
Hearing this Kwenthrith says, "Really, that is impressive. From the tales I have heard of Thorkell it is very rare for anyone to live when facing him. It is even said that he took on you and you brothers Jarl Ragnar all at once and still won the day."
This earns her a small laugh and Ragnar says without shame, "It is no tale. Thorkell indeed bested us at the same time. Jarl Siegfried however has the honor of being one of the few to fight him one on one and live. At the cost of the full use of his left leg, however, see how he favors it."
Looking Kwenthrith does she how the man walks with a small limp and asks, "What happened?"
"In their battle Thorkell slammed the blunt end of his ax in Siegfried's knee. Luckly for him it was only cracked and not turned to dust. Frode was able to fix it if only barely. He now uses what my brother calls a knee brace to walk and even run around in." Ragnar says to her.
"Remind me brother to ask Siegfried to allow me to take a look at that later. You know him, he is too proud to ask me to do so." Frode says to his brother.
The next man she sees get of one of the boats is an older man with long white hair. He is clearly older than most as he uses a walking stick to get around. By his sides are two young men with face tattoos. One young man has long brown hair tied at the back and the other short blond hair. Both young men have a wild look about them but the brown hair one seems to hide it better than the blonde.
"Who are they?" Kwenthrith asks.
"That is Jarl Halfdan the Elder of Tamdrup and his sons, Haraldr Hálfdansson and Halfdan Halfdansson. A wise Jarl he joined the alliance in later half of the early parts of the Salt War." Ragnar says.
"He looks old and in ill health." Kwenthrith says.
"That is because he is. He is near 70 winters old and age has taken its toll. But don't let that fool you, his mind is still sharp and his swords deadly." Frode told her.
"I am assuming those swords are the two young men by his side." Kwenthrith says more than asks.
"That they are, both maybe young but don't let that fool you. They have already developed a reputation for their fighting abilities and cruelty towards their enemies." Frode says.
"I wouldn't worry too much either, however. As Frode has said, the Jarl is old now. He is most likely here to let it be known his eldest Haraldr will be the next Jarl of Tamdrup. He doesn't look to break the alliance and I hear Haraldr is more cunning than he lets on." Ragnar says, showing that he paid attention to the things his brother's spies have been telling him.
"It's not him I am worried about brother." Frode says as he looks at Haraldr. He wouldn't say he didn't trust the young man currently. But he knew what his ambitions were or would be.
The final man off a boat however was the one they had to be careful of the most. Looking where Frode is Kwenthrith looks over and spots the man in question. Blonde hair, somewhat on the short side the man has something about him. A walk that spoke more than his looks could and she smiles.
"Who is that?" Kwenthrith asks.
"Jarl Borg, our strongest ally." Frode says. What he doesn't say is he is the most dangerous one as well but also the most trustworthy. So long as we get him to agree with the plan, we have he will abide by it. That is so long as we don't turn on him.
"Brother, I don't need to tell you he is the one you need to convince more than the others if this plan of ours is going to work." Frode says to him.
Ragnar says nothing for a while then says, "I still don't think this is going to work brother."
"It will brother, so long as you word it right. They will follow you, but you need to show the way." Frode says to him.
"I am happy you hear you have so much faith in me brother." Ragnar says, truly feeling that way.
"Not faith brother. I know you can do this because if you should fail then my vision will become a reality." Frode says and says no more.