Chapter 6
Will you all look at that two update for my stories in the span of two weeks. I have to say I am honestly a bit proud of myself as I write so slowly that months generally pass by between updates. Anyways I hope you all are having a wonderful week and fun during the holidays. Now on the Q&A.
KingOfSummer 245 those are great questions and bring up a lot of what ifs. As I have not fully maid up my mind on what to do. As while yes, I see them taking England it won't be for years and what type of governing body will they have. While I want to skirt around feudalism as much as I can there has to be some. Hit me up with a PM if you like to talk more in detail to work it all out.
Gingi71 nothing every does go the way we want them. Why have it in this story right. I am happy you like it.
RoyalTwinFangs yes and yes but I am unsure who just yet. As if things go well this will be a two part story.
Markus2994 yes.
AlexFalTon I love his character so I am trying to work him in smoothly and correctly. But be assured one day his time will come and all will know his name.
Nicogen I agree and I am happy you like that. As for Gyda I don't what to give anything away but yes, he does have a stash of penicillin around. Not in great quality but enough to give the Norsemen the upper hand when it comes to dealing with sickness. Something the rest of Europe just doesn't have. Fyi I do love Dr. Stone and will be taking some things from that manga.
Now on with the story and like always leave a review if you like the story. Hate the story or just have some ideas about it. Can't say I will always follow said ideas but do and try to keep a open mind.
Have a wonderful day.
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While sitting down with a priest in front of him Frode took a moment to realize how flawless their plan had gone. It was one thing to see it on TV but a whole other thing to see it happen in real life. As the realist in him wouldn't let him believe anyone, no matter how stupid they were, would leave a town fully unguard. After all while yes Northumbria was a Christian Kingdom with other Christian Kingdoms as their neighbor that didn't mean they had not enemies. While yes, those same enemies may not attack a monastery due to their shared beliefs that didn't go for a town. As any town or village, a prime target for bandits, or whoever to attack. Especially on Sunday mass as even the stupidest of bandits would know it was the time when most people would be at church. Yet still there were no guards on the walls and we entered the town unmolested. Then quickly made our way to the church, busted in like in the show killed a few men who were idiotic enough to attack us unarmed and now here he was talking to the local priest. Trying to get the lay of the land and political situation of this kingdom.
Speaking of said priest Frode had to say Bishop Ewald Fletcher was a unique man if he was being honest. While not as inquisitive or curious as Athelstan he was what Frode would call a true Christian priest. As he truly cared for his flock unlike many so call men of God and showed it by answering his questions. Despite clearly knowing that every question he answered could and would most likely would lead to the deaths of others. Not that I gave him much of a choice seeing as for each question he refused to answer, or Frode knew was false he had the men take it out on his flock. It was like Frode had told Haraldson long ago. You didn't need torture a man for information, you only had to find what he cared for most and use it against him. Like with this priest who truly believed his duty was to the people of this town. Not to the kingdom of Northumbria.
All it took was removing a few fingers from one man's hands and taking a few of the women as slaves to get the message across. Much to Frode's dislike as he both despised slavery and torture but wasn't above using it to get what he needed. Which he did as he now knew that things were more or less exactly like in the show. The current king of Northumbria was indeed King Aelle and as far as he knew Mercia was indeed in the mists of some turmoil after the lasts kings death.
"Frode?" Frode hears the voice of Haraldson call out to him.
"Yes," Frode says back looking up at the man.
"Did he tell you where the next closest settlement is?" Haraldson asks, looking forward to raiding another town before leaving. As this one proved no challenge, he saw no reason not to attack another before pulling out.
"Indeed, he did my Earl. Sadly, the closest two are little more than small farming villages with little in the way of gold or silver. With the closest monastery being a 3 day walk North of here. Hardly worth the trip if you ask me. Unless you wish to take more slaves." Frode say to him as part of the deal he made with the priest to get this information was to leave the rest of his flock along. So, they wouldn't be taking anymore slaves, unless Haraldson wanted to insult Frode.
Which wouldn't be wise as he was already standing on thin ice after what his brother Knut tried to pull with Lagertha. The only reason Knut was still alive was because Frode just so happened to be there holding a sword to his throat when he tried to attack Lagertha after she stop him from raping a woman. Something she shouldn't have done in the first place as it wasn't her right to stop Knut from taking his spoils but nor was Knut in the right for attacking Lagertha. So, the matter was dropped if only reluctantly by both parties.
Letting out a grunt of annoyance Haraldson weighed the options set before him. On the one hand things had gone relatively well. From the moment they landed they faced little resistance and had ran into no enemies on their way to this town. There were a few moments of concern but those came from the raiding party itself, not from these people. So really there was no reason to stop, and all signs pointed to pushing ahead to another town. Yet on the other hand things had been going too well for his liking. When the Gods give you a gift you shouldn't question it, he knew that but that was just wasn't his way. He questioned everything and, in this case, he was worried they were headed for a fall. Whether that came from the people of this land or those at home he wasn't sure, but a bad feeling had been plaguing him since this morning.
Turning to the men Haraldson sees they are waiting for his orders. "Grab everything you can get your hands on. We leave for home."
A cheer comes from the men as they pack up, grab the slaves that they would be taking and got ready to leave. While Frode turns to the priest and say, "Would you look at that priest we are leaving. May your god grant you that we never cross paths again."
Frode says then stand up and picks up the bible the priest had on him. Then gets ready to leave as well with the others. That is till Floki stops him and asks, "Why take one of their holy books Frode? What do you need with it?
Hearing the anger and judgement in his voice Frode just gave a soft smile. "Know your enemy Floki. The more we know about these strange people the easier it will be to deal with them later on. Really, I should have grab one from before, but I had other things on my mind at the time."
Which was only half true but was a good enough excuse to calm Floki. As really Frode had only just stated to think of what his families next play should be. No matter how things ended with Haraldson the fact remained that at some point his people would have to deal with the Christians in a more civilized way. Be it for trade and what not. The more they knew of their customs and beliefs the better. Plus, it had been some time since Frode had read the bible. He would have to brush up on it if he was to use their own beliefs against them.
-Back on the boats-
"All I am saying Frode is we are over doing things. While yes many of you, what you call innovations have been great for our family in the short term. We are now making more things than we sell and have a warehouse full of stuff that is not moving. Much of which is being eaten by the rats at this point." Rollo says to his younger brother who only seems to be paying half attraction to him.
Which was only partly true as Frode was thinking on other things. "You worry too much Rollo. The raids have been successful so we will have plenty of gold and silver to last us for a while."
Running his hands though his hair Rollo says, "Yes, they have been successful, and we are seeing more gold and silver than we have in a long time. But brother you odd and ends have costs, more so than we can continue to afford at this point. We have debts that have to be paid as well."
"What are you two talking about?" Ragnar asks in a relatively good mood after the raid. Despite what Knut had tried to do to his wife.
Looking up at his other younger brother Rollo just says, "I was just trying to explain to our younger brother here that he is spending too much coin on his stuff."
Rolling his eyes Frode says back, "And I am just trying to calm Rollo by explaining that everything will be fine."
"Not if the things you make don't sell brother. We already owe several shepherds' money that is coming out of our own pockets. And while yes, the raids have helped with the cost, the fact is none of our allies can afford what we can provide. None the less those Baltic bastards who while interested in our goods can't afford them anymore then our allies." Rollo says to him.
"Meaning brother?" Frode asks waiting for Rollo to get to the point.
"Meaning we either find new buyers or we scale back what we are making." Rollo says knowing that it wouldn't be a popular move to make with those that have been providing the raw materials. But at the rate they were going Rollo couldn't see any other way as they would just end up recording an overall loss in coin.
Hearing this Ragnar just says, "Then why not just trade with the west?"
Looking up at Ragnar like he was stupid Rollo asks, "Are we talking the same people we just raided?"
"No of course not. From what the monk told me there are three other kingdoms then the one we raided. Surely, they would be willing to trade if we came in peace." Ragnar says showing that he did have a mind for this business even if he didn't overly think on it. After all, ever since their father and mother died they had all agreed to put aside a portion of their wealth for any children and grandchildren they had. So, it would benefit his own children in the long run if the trade portion of their family business turned a profit.
Thinking it over for a bit Rollo had mixed thoughts about it. On one side Ragnar had a point but on the other he wasn't so sure he trusted these Englanders. He already had enough trouble with what little trade he did with the Baltic tribes. As their hatred towards each other left little room to negotiate. Still, it was an idea worth considering.
"Alright let's say I send a few ships to negotiate a trade with these Englanders. Who do we approach and let's not forget we will have to get the Earl's approval." Well, they really didn't, Rollo thought to himself, but it didn't benefit them to trade with someone first then raid them later. Getting the Earl on their deal would see to it that at least none from Kattegat would at least attack any new trading partners they made.
"We will worry about that later brother. Frist lets enjoy these few moments of joy. For they come too few to begin with." Frode says to him.
"I never thought I would hear myself agree with Frode but he is right. Quit speaking of making coin and whatever nonsense you three or talking about and celebrate with the rest of the crew." Lagertha who was sitting close by says and drags Ragnar away. Much to Frode's amusement and Rollo's displeasure. Something Frode notices but says nothing about.
-Kattegat days later-
The sound of a bucket hitting a wall with force could be heard coming from the longhouse as not for the first time Siggy lost her temper at the news she was getting. While it was unlike her to show such anger out in the open on normal occasions. Today and in fact the past few days had been far from normal for her. As things had only deteriorated over the last few days. Ever since news came to her about what Svein had tried to do she had been running around sometimes literally tying to keep things calm. While at the same time trying to assure her family's allies that all was well and that what Sevin had tried to do was not on her husband's orders. Despite what Thorkell had stated when he showed up with the rat in tow along with some of fools who had joined him.
Yet no matter how much she tried and assured her husband's allies they hardly listened. Since a flood of them over the last few days had abandoned them for Ragnar's family. Leaving only those who had crossed House Munsö at some point or the other let. Knowing that a change in leadership wouldn't be in their best interest they had little choice but to stay with him despite how bad things looked. Those allies, however, were few and weak. With the way things stood it was no longer a matter of if her husband lost power but when. The only reason her daughter and herself still lived was because she wasa able to convince Thorkell not to attack. Something that was only possible because of a man's lack of ambition
Like any sane person she was completely terrified of Thorkell. Having seen him herself beat a man who was close to the same height as him to death with his bear hands in a Holmgang during the early years of her husband's rule. She could still remember it well even now as a man name Hrut Eidsson who was a warrior of Kattegat called him a coward. Insisting that no matter what his deeds during the war on their side he should not have been allowed in join Kattegat after the war because of how many of their men he had killed. The truth was Hrut was only angry that two of those people happened to be his own father and brother. Who Thorkell had kill on the battlefield at the same time.
It went without saying that Thorkell didn't take those insults well and challenge the man to a Holmgang. Which was accepted in turn and for those who saw the two men would think it an even fight. As while Thorkell was still a good head and shoulder taller Hrut was more massive in both girth and muscle. She had personally thought it would be a battle for the skalds to tell for years to come. Siggy had even asked her husband who he believed would win. Being the great warrior, he was, she thought he would have some deep insight on it. Instead, however he only told her it wasn't a matter of who would win as so much as how Thorkell would end it. Would he kill the man quickly or make the man's death a slow one. At the time she thought her husband was jesting as Hrut while a few inches shorter than Thorkell looked more muscular and heavier as well as being a famed Berserker. To her eyes it would be an even and difficult fight no matter what the stories of Thorkell said. She was wrong.
For as soon as the fright started Thorkell throw both his first and 2nd set of weapons and shields to the ground. In what was clearly a mocking gesture that said he could kill Hrut without them. Hrut didn't take that well and in a rage charged at Thorkell intending to cleave him in half with his great ax. To this day she still couldn't believe a man of Thorkell's size could move a quickly as he did. As one moment Thorkell was in front of Hrut and the next he was at his side delivering a bone breaking punch to the man's face. Falling to the ground from the punch Thorkell had delivered, Hrut hit the ground hard and Thorkell wasted little time in getting on top of him. Punching him in the face over and over again till his face caved in and the screams Hrut was letting out came to a stop.
Now Siggy was no stranger to violence seeing as it was a part of life but one-sided violence in what was supposed to be a fare fight. That she was not used to seeing at all. It was worse even then what Frode did to Svein years ago. At least Frode ended it with what he called precision violence. Thorkell was more along the lines of a great enraged bear. Tearing apart whatever it was that pissed him off at the time. After that no one dared challenge Thorkell to a Holmgang again and was largely accepted as a member of Kattegat. Lucky for her however while a great warrior he was a man of little ambition. Having no desire to rule himself all she had to do was remind him that if he killed her, he would essentially be naming himself Jarl of Kattegat. The face he made when she remined him of this fact would have been funny if she was so close to death.
All that was left after talking him down was to wait for her husband to come home. Though she was no fool. The shit was on the wall where everyone could see it. Her husband's rule was done unless something drastically changed. Even if the raid was a big success, it would mean little as the salt pools where the life's blood of Kattegat. To attack it for any reason was to enrage the whole of Kattegat and with all believing that Svein was still her husband's man his actions were on him.
Hearing the horns that signaled the returning raiding party Siggy just closed her eyes and made her way down toward the docks. To hopefully get word to her husband before someone else did.
-Meanwhile-
Nobody needed to say anything as the boats made their way towards Kattegat. As no sooner did it come into sight than an ominous mood could be felt all around them. Something had happened while they had been away. No one on the boats of course knew but the ominous feeling stuck to them like a wet shirt. Even though a few men tried to tell some funny stories to lighten the mood it did no good. For nothing could lighten the mood and even those cheerful men's good humor died the moment we got close enough to see what was happening. Because instead of people lining the docks celebrating their return all they saw were armed men divided by an invisible line.
"What the hel has happened?" Rollo asks Frode who was standing right next to him on the boat.
Frode upon hearing his brother's question just answers, "I don't know brother but whatever it is it involves our family's closet allies and those of the Earl's."
Once the boats docked a boy of no more than 10 or 12 ran up to Frode. A son of one of Thorkell's men if Frode remembered right. Leaning down to hear what the boy has to say Frode's eyes widen. Standing back up straight he looks over at Haraldson whose wife Siggy was whispering something into his ear. A clear look of rage comes over his face and looks towards Frode. Once their eyes met a grim look of understanding appears on both their faces. They know there is no stopping things now as Svein had taken things a step to far.
Looking over at his brothers who were currently helping unload the boat of the loot they had taken Frode calls out, "Brothers, Lagertha over here."
Hearing the voice of their little brother, Ragnar and Rollo drop what they are doing and along with Lagertha approach Frode.
"What is it Frode. What is the matter?" Ragnar asks immediately, able to tell from his younger brother's face that something wrong has taken place.
"The salt pools were attacked while we were gone." Frode answers plainly.
Immediately fearing the worst Lagertha asks a simple but pointed question. "The children?"
"The children are fine Lagertha. The attackers never even got passed the wall." Frode says to her looking to calm her before her little temper gets the best of her.
It doesn't work as with look that could kill, she asks, "Who attack us Frode?"
It was more along the lines of a demand than a question but it really didn't matter. Because before Frode can answer Ragnar does. "Earl Haraldson."
"Close, it was his man Svein." Frode says to them.
Then with anger in his eyes Ragnar grips his sword and looks to step forward. Only to be stopped by his young brother.
"Out of my way Frode. This ends now." Ragnar says but Frode does not move.
"Yes, brother it ends today and as you were the one to start the fight it is up to you to end it. But end it wisely like Odin would." Frode said to my brother looking him dead in the eyes. After all it was his ambition to go west that led to this. And while yes some of it was on Frode himself most of it was on Ragnar.
Looking back into his little brother's eyes Ragnar only for a moment thinks of correcting his brother. As he didn't believe he had anything to do with this fight but thought better of it. And instead calms himself then nods his head before stepping past his brother with Lagertha and Rollo close behind. While Frode just stands there on the dock for a moment looking up at the sky wondering could fate not be changed for these people. Perhaps not but regardless he would stand with his family today.
One Frode rejoins his family in the longhouse he could tell emotions were high to say the least. For from the looks of things they were only a moment away from things blowing up into open conflict. Especially seeing as Thorkell was smart enough to being Svein along so the Earl couldn't deny anything. Looking like shit and half dead Svein had clearly seen better days. Not that Frode cared as he only felt anger towards both Svein and himself for not killing him long ago. If he had, then perhaps this could have all been avoided but then thinking of what could have been, was pointless. What had happened, happened now it was time to watch where the chips fell so to speak.
Looking at his brother Frode could see the anger on Ragnar's face and the desire to attack Haraldson. Lucky for everyone in the room Ragnar was not nearly as reckless as Lagertha. So, with anger in his voice but a cool head he speaks.
"You attacked my family." Ragnar says and points at Earl Haraldson. Who was currently sitting on his throne with an impassive look on his face.
"I have done no such thing." Haraldson says back.
It is a simple rebuttal, if it can even be called that. More like a weak statement of the facts and one that won't hold water. As Ragnar quickly goes on the attack with his words. "Then your men did which is the same thing."
Still just sitting there looking on calmly with a hard look in his eyes Haraldson says nothing. What was there to say. To admit that he had no knowledge of the attack that took place would prove to the people of Kattegat that he had lost control of his men. Which would lead him to being removed from power immediately. To say that he did order the attack, however, would only lead to the same thing. Only with more violence as his supporters and Ragnar's fought for control. A fight he was sure to lose as he had already talked to his wife Siggy and knew many of his supporters had betrayed him. Which while enraged him he understood all to well why.
So, he waited for an opportunity to turn things around which would come when Ragnar said, "You say nothing? Very well, now this will end. This however is not a fight between the people of Kattegat but between two men. Me and you, so I challenge you to a Holmgang. Do you accept."
"Very well Ragnar Lodbrok I accept your challenge. Six days from now you and I will settle this once and for all." Haraldson answered with a strong tone that shows none of the uncertainty he was feeling.
Hearing Haraldson give his answer Frode just gives out a sigh and leaves the long house. Only to see the Seer standing some ways away, looking at him with his blind face. Then turned and walked away. Letting out another sigh Frode follows the Seer till he reaches a hill and finds the old creature sitting on a rock, rattling some bones before tossing them into a bowl.
"Why have you followed me man out of place, out of time." The Seer's voice asks Frode.
"Followed you? I think it was you who sought me out old one. Or am I to believe that you looking at me right when I exited the longhouse was a coincidence?" Frode asks the Seer.
It had been many years since the last time Frode had spoken with the Seer. Unlike others he never felt the need to as he cared little about fate and knew the Gods were real. So, the only time he went to go see the Seer was when he was 16 and the Salt War was about to start. Frode sought answers on why he was here. Why didn't he die and go to wherever it was he was supposed to go. Needless to say, the Seer gave him no satisfying answer. Whither that was by choice or because the Gods forbid him from telling him Frode didn't know.
Giving a dry almost mocking laugh the Seer answers, "Coincidence? You if no one else should know there is no such thing."
Letting out a deep sigh Frode only asks, "Is there really no way to change their fate old one? Are they truly destined to fall like I had seen in the other world?"
Tossing his bones into the bowl once more the Seer answers, "You ask questions only the Gods can answer man out of time. But you should take solace that already you have changed much of the story."
"Changing the story and changing fate are two different things old one." Frode says back to him with no small amount of sorrow. Before he starts to walk away.
Before he can get far, however he hears the voice of the Seer say, "Frode, you are many things, and your knowledge allows you to change many things. But you can not change how men are. They will always do what they have done. No matter how much you wish for it to be otherwise."
-The morning before the Holmgang-
Blocking an overhand strike from Lagertha's sword with his own Thorkill smiled at the clang of metal on metal. While he saw this coming sooner or later Thorkill would be lying if he said he wasn't looking forward to her attacking him. After all, having missed the last raid and getting no challenge from attack on the salt pools his boredom as of late had only increased. So, he was in quite the good mood when he showed up and almost right from the get-go, she attacked him for letting her son and Thorfinn take part in the battle. She never did do anything by half as each strike and trust of her blade was aimed to kill. Something he admired about her and while not as skilled as he was with the sword still give him a hel of a challenge do to having to hold back from truly hurting her.
"Come Lagertha is the best you can do. Why don't you just go back inside and cook me a meal or have you husband mount you like a bitch if you can't do better." Thorkell mocks as he lets their blades lock for a moment before he pushes her away with ease.
For Lagertha she was truthfully only slightly angry with Thorkell. While yes it somewhat pissed her off that he let the boys take part in the battle she honestly, couldn't have been prouder of her son and Thorfinn. After all, there were not that many children their age who could claim to have been in a battle or lived to tell the tale. Yet here they stood blooded warriors at the age of 12. Even her own sweet daughter had proved herself by helping the few men that were injured in the battle. No, the only real reason she attacked was because Thorkell did it more for amusement and to get a rise out of her than anything. Well, that and testing herself against the likes of Thorkell was a rare thing indeed. As few had ever lived long enough to say they had fought Thorkell and lived. Even among those that trained with him.
Was it any wonder Thorfinn was the better fighter between Bjorn and himself. As with each sword strike, she parried or blocked with her sword or shield her arms shook. And more than once she was almost sent her flying off her feet. This was the overwhelming power that Thorfinn had to deal with all his life and why he took training so seriously. Thorkell offered no mercy and while yes, his was taking it easy on her that was only in the I most likely won't accidentally kill you way. Lagertha loved it seeing as while yes, she trained with her husband and helped train the boys they didn't push her like this.
"Fuck you Thorkell. If this is the best, you can do then perhaps you should be the one wearing the dress and cooking my meals." Lagertha mocks back but with sweat, grime and blood from a busted lip on her face.
Letting out a booming laugh Thorkell goes on the attack. Lagertha whose arms are now numb and tried can barely lift her own to try and perry. And when she does her sword goes flying from her hand. Which is quickly followed by a kick from Thorkell that she takes on the shield. Not that it helps her as she is sent off her feet and hard onto the ground. Where she quickly finds a sword trust down next to her face.
"It's your loss Lagertha." Thorkell says from above her.
Letting out a painful groan Lagertha ever defiant says, "Go fuck a goat Thorkell."
Then rolls over and gets up slowly after her painful but satisfying loss.
Taking a step back Thorkell says, "You have gotten better. Faster even."
Having finally stood up Lagertha leans back to pop her back and says, "Yes well Thorfinn keeps me on my toes when we train. It took me a while to get used to how fast and deadly he is with those knives of his. You and Frode did well training the boy if nothing else."
Smiling at hearing that the boy had not been slacking off Thorkell ask, "How is my nephew doing by the way?"
"He is good. Took a while to get him to open up to us but now gets along well with my children." Lagertha says to him with a smile on her face.
While he had indeed opened up a bit Thorfinn was still too quiet for her liking but was helpful. Doing what he could around the farm to make life easier. Taking on even some tasks that would be thought of as women's work by most. But thanks to living with the idiots for so long it made sense that he learned how to take care of himself in every way possible.
"That is good. I was worried he wouldn't know how to deal with other children his age. Sure, there were a few children at the pools but none around his age." Thorkell says to her.
"So, you and the other idiot knew what you were doing to the poor boy." Lagertha says only halfheartedly with a glare on her face.
"Oh, get off you high horse Lagertha. I may be an idiot, but I am not completely stupid but what else were we to do. We knew nothing about raising a child so we did the best we could." Thorkell says in a light tone knowing she means nothing by her words. That and he knew he should have done a better with the boy but that just wasn't his way. Life was hard and cold, so they raised Thorfinn to be both.
"Yes well, I guess you both didn't do that horrible of a job. He is amazingly disciplined for child his age and respectful now that he lives under our roof." Lagertha says thinking on his work ethic which was a lot like Forde's. Up before dawn to do what he called morning exercises. The same ones that her own husband did but not nearly as early in the morning. Then breakfast with the family which he often helped with. Then his chores, till noon, then lunch, followed by more chores till they were done followed by several hours of training. It was amazing that a boy so young could do all that without complaint.
Shrugging his shoulders Thorkell says, "We really didn't know what to do with the boy when we took him in. So Frode taught him discipline and me how to fight. It was why Frode was so willing to marry Haraldson's daughter. He thought that the young women could help with the boy if nothing else."
That gets an amused smile from Lagertha. The thought of that man ever getting married while not farfetched was strange to think about. As was the man himself. Frode from the moment she had met him was always the oddest of the three brothers. While handsome in his own way, smart, and a good warrior cared little for the things most men did. While she could name quite a few women who have warmed his bed over the years none of them he ever took seriously and his desire to have children of his own was nonexistent. He just didn't care if someone lived on to carry on his legacy.
"I would have felt feel bad for the girl if that had come to pass. Frode is not my ideal of a husband." Lagertha says in good humor.
"And yet if you were not married to his brother, you would happy have sex with him." Thorkell says with a smirk as Lagertha who was about to drink some ale from a cup spit it back out.
"Wh…what?" Lagertha says with a face that say he is crazy.
Letting out a booming laugh Thorkell says, "Come now Lagertha I am not so blind that I have not seen the way you look at the handsome bastard twice. Most women do after all. As he is both rich despite himself and a good warrior."
Rolling her eyes Lagertha just says, "Well I wouldn't go so far as to say I would fuck him but yes, he is handsome. He is a lot like Ragnar, only different. But I could not see us being anymore then friends as his ways are just too odd from me."
Nodding his head at this Thorkell moves the conversation along by asking, "Speaking of Ragnar where is he. I had come not only to see Thorfinn but him as well."
"He is up on the mountain preparing himself." Lagertha says to him.
Just nodding again Thorkell says, "Hmmm good, Haraldson's maybe an old man but he is not to be underestimated. You don't live as him without reason."
"Who do you believe will win tomorrow Thorkell?" Lagertha asks, not really worried about her husband losing but seeking some comfort to the few doubts she had.
"None know what the fates have in stored for them Lagertha and while I have little doubt that Ragnar will be victorious, I cannot say so with certainty. What I do know is that whoever falls tomorrow will dine in Valhalla. Can a warrior ask for more?" Thorkell asks her.
Hearing this Lagertha says no more and just looks up at the mountain where her husband was.
-That night-
Sitting alone in his house Frode was looking into the fire, feeling more melancholy than was normal even for him. As while he was a quiet man to begin, he was never this quiet as he had said few words over the last couple of days to anyone. Too busy lamenting the fact that he honestly did little to prevent what was going to take place tomorrow. He could have done more, could have shown his friend Haraldson how to sail west. Hel making a compass while different was not of the possibility along with any number of navigational instruments. He just didn't because he honestly wanted to see his brother succeed like he did in the show. As his love for Ragnar and Rollo was more than his like for Haraldson.
That didn't mean he didn't have a conscious, however. From the moment they met they had become good friends. Even making friends with Haraldson's wife Siggy and the rest of his family. That was till the day the boys were taken and killed. To this day their deaths weighed heavily on Frode's heart as even with knowing that they would be killed was unable to stop it. Really it was not his fault they had died, after all he could not keep watch on them all the time. But regardless of that fact, Frode still felt somewhat responsible for their deaths.
Hearing his door open Frode doesn't look up from the fire and just says, "I was wondering when you would show up my old friend."
Stopping in the doorway unarmed Haraldson takes off his hood and says, "Why am I unsurprised that you knew I would be coming to see you."
"Because I know you and you me. So, our actions can hardly surprise each other." Frode answers.
Taking a seat opposite of Frode, Haraldson takes out the locks of hair that he took from his dead sons' heads and stares into the fire for a time. Then slowly asks his question, "Tell me shaman will I win tomorrow against you brother."
Under normal circumstances Frode would remind Haraldson that unlike the Seer he could not see into the future but didn't need to in order to know the answer. "No, Ragnar is younger and more skilled than you are. The moment you accepted the fight your fate was sealed."
"And you don't just say this because he is your brother and don't wish to see him die tomorrow?" Haraldson asked but already knows the answer.
"You know me better than that Haraldson. Ten years ago, you would have been more than a match against Ragnar. Now however you have become old as all things do and while wisdom occasionally follows age strength of body does not." Frode answers.
"And if regardless of that I come out victorious, what will you do?" Haraldson asks.
Looking at his friend with a dull look in his eyes, Frode answers, "I will do what I have always done. Accept the outcome whatever it maybe."
Letting out a tried sigh Haraldson says, "I guessed you would say as much. That is why I have come to see you. No matter if I fall or not tomorrow, I want your word that you will marry Thyri. I fear I have not prepared her for a world without me in it. So, I would see she is taken care of be it while I live or if I should die."
"You have my word old friend. No matter how this ends I marry Thyri." Frode says to him readily enough.
Seeing as Frode had no feelings one way or the other about the young girl, he was fine with marrying her. In many ways she came off as someone who would make the perfect wife. As she was both a good cook, good with numbers and had studied the healing arts at the Temple of Eir. The only problem Frode saw with her was as Haraldson had said she wasn't ready to live without him. She had none of her mother's cunning nor her father's fierceness. Something she would need in the coming years if she was to be trusted as his wife. But while that was a worry it was not enough to stop Frode from agreeing to marry her. It was in his mind the least he could do for his old friend.
"You have my thanks." Haraldson says as he gazes into the fire while still holding his sons' hair.
They remain silent again for a time till Haraldson says, "In my dreams I see myself on a ship bound for new lands with my sons by my side. It is pleasant and often more than not when I wake up, I wish I had not. What I wouldn't give to have just have one more day with them by myside."
Hearing this a look of sadness comes to Frode's face. "They were good lads. Young and impatient as all young boys are but with a sense of respect for their father that made them listen when spoken to. They would have been fine young men and even greater warriors."
Hearing his old friend say this Haraldson smiles just a bit but then a look of anger mixed with sorrow comes to his face. "I should have seen it coming, I knew I had angered many men when I took power but the man who killed my boys. He stood out as someone who I should have watched more closely."
"You couldn't have known Earl Ingulbjörn would have been so stupid as to harm you boys." Frode says to him.
Glaring at his old friend Haraldson says, "Do not say his name. I have killed that man a 1000 times over in my dreams in just as many ways. It is never enough to, never enough."
Frode just sits there listening to his friend. After all he was not a father himself and as strange as it may sound to people the thought of fatherhood never appealed to him. So, he had no idea what he could say to his friend but one thing, "You will meet them in Vahalla my friend. For they did not go without a fight."
And it was true as they were their fathers' sons. They had fought back wounding the man who took their lives as shown when they captured Ingulbjörn and found a fresh cut on his face that was given my no warrior of Kattegat. It was from the boys.
"That they did. That they did." Haraldson says then says no more. Just sitting there till he felt it was time to go. He would need his rest if he hoped to stand any chance against Ragnar come tomorrow.
-The next day-
Standing by the side of Thorkell and his brother Rollo, Frode watches on as the Holmgang was about to begin. The ring in which his brother and Earl Haraldson were to fight had been set up, the weapons both sides were to use proved for and set in their proper places. A crowd not unsurprisingly already formed, and all that was left was for the two men to appear. As they waited Frode turns his head and looks at the body of Svein who was currently hanging from the water tower.
"Hm looks like Earl Haraldson finally decided to rid himself of that little worm." Rollo says looking over at the body as well.
"I am not surprised. Svein is the one most responsible for the situation he currently finds himself in. If I was him, I would have done the same." Frode says coolly.
"So, do think Ragnar will win Frode?" Thorkell asks.
"I have little doubt. In terms of skill as a warrior Ragnar is among the top five in Kattegat. With only Rollo, Erik and myself matching him and you above him Thorkell." Frode says to his friend.
As he always watched closely as people fought, he had a good grasp on everyone's skill level. Granted that was not the only that should be taken into consideration during a fight it was still important. At one-point Haraldson himself was at the top of that list as was old man Tostig. But as he said to Haraldson last night, time had taken its toll and they were old now. Against a young and inexperienced man, they could still perhaps come out on top in a fight but against Ragnar no. Being both young and experienced enough to know better than to underestimate his opponent it wasn't a question of if but when would he deal the death blow.
Hearing this doesn't please Rollo. While he was happy to know that his younger brother would triumph over the Earl he didn't like being thought of as weaker or even with Ragnar in fighting prowess. Thorkell he could accept as time and again the great giant of a man had proven himself to be his better. Ragnar, he had always judged to be his lesser in terms of combat. Yet if Frode said it then it was most likely true.
"Then we will have a new Jarl by the end of today." Rollo says as neutrally as he can but is unable to hide any of his bitterness at the fact that Ragnar will most likely going to be his Jarl soon.
Hearing the betterness in his brother's voice Frode ignores it for now but reminds himself that he will have to do something about that soon. He could not change Haraldson's fate but would be damn to Hel if he let his family fall apart.
Hearing a cheer come from the crowd Frode watches on as both men enter the circle. A few words are exchanged when they pick up their weapons. They mean nothing to Frode as he just watches both men toss away their first shield like in the TV show. Then it begins but Haraldson shows his wisdom right away as he takes up a defensive stance. With Ragnar uninjured unlike in the TV show, Haraldson knows going on the attack will only tire him out quicker against a younger foe.
Swords clash on shields as Ragnar goes on the attack. Aggressively striking at Haraldson only to find his sword blocked or parried. If Ragnar was a raging river, then Haraldson was the unmoving rock in the river. Sadly, for Haraldson where he was standing strong right now, Frode could see each blow was taking its toll on his body. He was tiring quickly and needed to do something to change the balance to his advantage if he hoped to win. It comes in the form of a trust that he parried with his shield throwing Ragnar off balance but again his age shows itself. As Haraldon is too sluggish in swinging his own sword up to slash across Ragnar's chest. Which allows Ragnar enough time to back away with only a light cut across his chest armor that doesn't even draw blood.
It was a horribly missed opportunity as while it most likely wouldn't have been a killing blow it could have even the odds. Instead, he had only disarmed Ragnar of his sword but with an ax and shield left Haraldson's odd only decreased especially when Ragnar shield bashes Haraldson's own breaking both. While at the same time knocking the old Earl off balance allowing Ragnar to go in and strike him with a clean punch to the chin and disarm him of his own sword. Yet instead of going for the kill Ragnar instead tosses the sword away and allows Haraldson to get back up.
Not as an insult or any desire to make the fight last lone then need be, but as a sign of respect for the old Earl. He was not able to kill Haraldson while he was on the ground helpless. No, he wanted to do it with the man on his feet armed and fighting like a warrior. Haraldson had earned at least that much respect from Ragnar.
When both go get their final weapon, an ax, they start to circle each other cautiously. This is where it would end, and they both knew it. Haraldson was already breathing heavily and the punch to his chin had rattled him. While across from him Ragnar's breathing was even and steady. Taking a few more deep breathes Haraldson tries to catch a 2nd wind. Then goes on the attack and for a moment he seems to do well. Fighting with Ragnar on even footing till he locks axes Raganr, a mistake that would end up costing him everything. As Haraldson's 2nd wind dies quickly as Ragnar uses his young to overpower the old Earl. Pushing him away while at the same time dragging his ax up cutting deep across Haraldson's chest.
The cut while not enough to kill Haraldson nor be a mortal blow signals the end. They both know it when Haraldson turns to face Ragnar. Still, even though it was all but over Haraldson doesn't lose grip of his ax. No, like a true Viking he just grips it all the tighter and lefts it up. Ready to fight till the very end. Seeing this the crowd stops cheering. As they are about to watch a true Viking lose his life in honorable combat he deserves to be set off without any jeering.
Moving to end this fight once and for all Ragnar attacks. Haraldson is able to block the first incoming blow and amazingly the 2nd but the 3rd is too fast and quickly finds home in Haraldson's side. Pulling it free quickly in one fluid movement Ragnar spins around striking the old Earl in the back right where one of his lungs is. The ax falls from Haraldson's hands at the final blow before falling to his knees. Then finally onto his back looking up at the sky. As this happens Frode watches Ragnar walk up to his old friend and say some words. He doesn't need to hear them as he just turns to walk away before Ragnar slits Haraldson's wrist and Siggy runs to his side.
Shortly after walking away Frode enters a hut where two rune stone sit. Hearing the chant of heil Jarl Ragnar, Frode takes a sit in front of the 2nd stone. Then starts chiseling last part of the Saga of Earl Haraldson. A less then remarkable ruler for a more then remarkable man.