Chapter 1

Magnus

A roaring storm torments a raging sea as twelve longships sail through the chaos undeterred. What terrible luck, day and night, the storm continues. These brave voyagers cry out to Njord and Odin, hoping to change the unrelenting conditions. The gods love to test, and today is no exception.

A tall cloaked man named Magnus stares ahead with a focused gaze and a slight smile across his scarred face. As his ancestors have long fared this sea, the storm does not worry him. Instead, he dreams of what lies ahead as his beard dances in the wind.

In the past, he joined raids on the rich isles to the west and how smooth those expeditions went. Those who inhabited the land carried few weapons and mustered only a meagre defence. Many stories are told of great armies further inland; nevertheless, Magnus does not have a breath of worry. The isles have always been the target, but he dreams of more. He dreams of the land with fair conditions, fertile soil, and plenty of space where he can build a home of his own.

Magnus brought the idea to his king.

"Expansion of the homeland," he pitched, "and, of course, regular tribute to reward your faith."

But, understandably, the king was skeptical.

"Why not continue as we have thus far," the king inquired, "quick raids are very profitable."

Magnus disclosed what he learned of the land. "Further inland holds much space to expand your kingdom, not to mention the countless treasures those people hoard."

After a long talk, the king agreed to grant 12 ships and 350 hirdmen, leaving space for families and supplies.

Magnus sits at the bow of one of the beautiful ships gifted to him. He knows that success will take hard work, but hard work is nothing new to Magnus as he spent his youth as a thrall.

As he was born to an enslaved mother, who died giving birth to him, he was classed as a thrall and put to work at an early age. After finishing a hard day's work, he would join his jarl, who would train the town's youth in combat. Dreams of freedom drove Magnus to excel, and eventually, his jarl declared him a free man. Still, he owned no land, so he joined a raiding party. He quickly rose through the ranks by displaying courage and ruthlessness. Yet, despite his elevating prestige, he desired more. During a raid on a small island, he met a young man that spoke his language. He told Magnus of a town where one could easily access the eastern sea through a firth, a word he used for an inlet from the sea, and that by going further south, he would find bountiful meadows.

Since that day, Magnus never stopped dreaming of those ripe lands. A home of his own and adventures await him. His heart yearns for the chance to breathe life into what he pictures in his mind, and finally, his opportunity is here. So he sails west with his people behind him, yearning for what lies ahead.

Onward.

He looks around at those brave enough to accompany him and feels at ease knowing that he is in good company. Even the darkest days become bearable when surrounded by good people.

Magnus returns his gaze to what lies ahead, the storm growing rougher by the minute.

It's our will against the storm; it will not break us.

Magnus' wife, Astrid, joins him and puts her hand on his shoulder. She smiles as she sits next to him, then opens her blanket and pulls it tight around the two of them.

How good it is to have you next to me.

Her company brings Magnus peace.

She turns and asks, "How much longer, my love?"

Magnus thinks for a moment, then responds, "A day give or take. Unfortunately, the storm delays us, but don't fret. We will be there soon enough."

Upon hearing his words, she rests her head on his shoulder. Magnus knows that her concern is not for herself but for their young son, Harald, who sleeps soundly behind them. The trip has been tough on everyone, but Magnus feels that the boy is faring quite well. Many on the vessel even begin to call him a natural. Being Magnus' only heir, Harald's future is full of opportunity.

He will only lead an extraordinary life if I don't fail to build him a kingdom.

Magnus quickly pushes such thoughts from his mind.

The gods reward those who prove themselves, and I have been proving myself to them all my life. What lies ahead is my destiny.

As if the gods acknowledge his thought, the clouds part just enough for sunlight to reach the ships.

Chapter 2

27 YSD (Years Since Departure)

Harald

Harald helps bury a ship under stone and dirt. The vessel is full of gold statues, beautiful weapons, animal hides, exotic jewellery, and his father's body.

The courageous man rushed into one last fight, where he was slain. Though the enemy ambushed Magnus' party and laid waste to most, the few who escaped told the story of the king's final moments. How the 65-year-old man ran ahead of his troops and how he ended so many before he fell.

In a glorious battle with blood on his axe, he died the way any true warrior wishes to go. Magnus joins Odin in Valhalla, where he will continue fighting until the last great war.

Rage consumes Harold; revenge is his only desire. He has amassed an army, so once the funeral has concluded, they will find the enemy and make them regret ever raising their swords. Harald's tremendous pain will only be relieved by their elimination.

As the only heir to the throne, Harald will be named leader, but there is no time to think of such things right now. Revenge is all he cares about; such formalities can wait.

Father, I promise none shall survive.

…

Heavy rain and powerful winds match the fury that consumes Harald. He sees the enemy approaching ahead with a much smaller force than expected.

Easy work.

Harald sends his archers ahead to fire on the enemy as the rest of his army slowly advances. Suddenly, cavalry emerge from their hiding spot among the trees. It is a bloodbath; the unit effortlessly slaughters the lightly armoured archers.

I am a fool. I sent them ahead, unprotected, so they could fire arrows through a storm.

Rage overwhelms Harald as he orders a charge. But unfortunately, by the time they reach their foe, they are too late to save any archers.

With his warriors by his side, Harald attacks the enemy general. To his credit, the general displays remarkable skill. Blow for blow, they attack one another as warriors battle all around. Finally, with a mighty swing, Harald takes his opponent's head.

Upon seeing their leader fall, the remaining enemies begin to run. However, Harald's rage is not yet satisfied, so he spends the day pursuing the fleeing enemies and ends those he finds.

Chapter 3

28 YSD

Harald

Spring slowly emerges after a long winter. Since he returned home, Harald has spent every waking moment learning how to be the best leader possible. Currently, he focuses his treasury on increasing the nation's food supply and whatever is leftover he uses to bolster his army.

His eldest son, Ulf, wishes to prove himself, so he continues to ask his father for an army to take west. He knows of the riches that the main island to the west holds and says he wishes to take them for his people. Harald agrees but insists he must wait one more year as he has already spent most of their resources.

Magnus regularly spoke of an eastern town with access to the sea, now controlled by the faction that dealt Magnus his final blow. Now that spring has arrived, Harald plans to take the town and put down those who would try to stop him.

Their strong allies to the north, the Orkney people, will provide much-needed support for this endeavour. In addition, the Orkney's land was annexed by King Harald of Denmark, only adding to their strength.

The Orkney will aid us in dealing with whatever repercussions result from our incursion.

Harald of Ægir, a name Magnus chose for his nation, also has a younger son, Troels. The boy is still too young to grow a beard but will make a mighty warrior in time. Ulf, now 20, is sent to Iona, a small western isle, where he waits, praying that Odin grants him an army.

…

Harald's army moves east through the Orkney's land, towards the town his father spoke of so frequently. As he always fought by his father's side, this will be Harald's first independent conquest. His dream of growth is only possible with more land, and though his people thrive on the western isles, he knows that these rich lands, ripe with potential, are just what they need.

…

By summer, the town fell to my troops. By autumn, those who once called this their home were trying to take the settlement back. They were defeated and chased across our new land. We spared those survivors who were willing to join our ranks, and we sent the rest to the afterlife. I now rest in my new home, my nation's new capital, prepared to defend it by any means. I call this town Inverni.

Chapter 4

28 YSD

Ulf

Every day I train as I wait for a chance to prove my worth to my father and the gods. I wish to carve out a piece of the world for myself, just like my grandfather before me. There is a land to the west consumed by war and rich with opportunity where I will begin building my home. I await the army promised to me; next year, we'll set sail. Oh, how wonderful that'll be. Despite my impatience, another year of training will do me good. Then, when my time comes, I'll be ready.

…

We finally set sail. My patience has been rewarded as I now command a large army. There is talk of a rebel-controlled island to the south. A quick visit will serve as good practice before heading west. I can hardly conceal my excitement as the sea breeze blows through my hair.

…

We arrive on their shore under dark clouds; we disembark as lightning cuts through the sky. The enemy sees us and chooses to leave their town to stand against us. I divide my force and squeeze the enemy between two lines of warriors. Despite their significant numbers, our attack goes smoothly, and in moments, what remains of the army is desperately fleeing. My first victory is sweet and decisive, thank the gods. The west awaits.

Ulf has a celebration feast arranged, and with great cheer, the Ægir eat their fallen foe's food and drink their ale. Those held captive by the rebels join the festivities, and all hunger is satisfied.

Success fills Ulf with joy; the world appears full of possibility as he downs another cup of ale. Such bliss he has never felt before. Across the glowing hall, a young woman shyly smiles at him, so Ulf awkwardly lifts a hand and waves. Although he has recently married, he wishes to share this moment with her.

The woman approaches timidly, which makes Ulf worry that she is frightened. So, he gives her his biggest smile, which seems to ease her hesitancy.

They drink, and he tells the tale of his triumph as she listens attentively with a warm smile.

The night becomes a happy blur, and the following morning Ulf wakes with the woman lying on his chest.

…

Complications arise, and many months pass as their ships are repaired. Then, as a result, they must then wait out the winter. Ulf spends this time helping the island town begin transitioning into a bustling city.

Finally, Ulf and his men are about ready to set sail for a small vassal state to the west. Their protector's turmoil, who is losing a gruelling war, leaves the vassal unprotected.

That will make an excellent spot to start my campaign.

As they begin their final preparations, a woman approaches. Ulf realizes that the woman from the victory festivities so many moons ago stands before him. She is rather large with a baby in her arms, and now that she is close, Ulf can see that her eyes are wet with tears.

"He is yours," she whispers.

Ulf is caught off guard, but the time elapsed makes sense.

My first son!

Ulf accepts his child with a smile and holds him tight to his chest. "He shall be known as Axel!"

Chapter 5

30 YSD

Harald

Many months ago, word of Ulf's victory reached Harald. He now tells anyone who will listen of his son's first conquest.

Troels, now 17, wishes to fight as well. Harald promises him that he will be fighting soon if he keeps training diligently.

The faction which once held Inverni has two cities left, one east and one south-west of Inverni. As the Orkney army besieges the western settlement, Harald marches his troops towards the city to the east.

…

After a long siege and a bloody battle, Harald is victorious. The Orkney army is also victorious, and together they have obliterated the majority of the enemy.

Finally, Harald can rest easy. While there is still a mighty enemy to the south, the allies of the conquered, he breathes a sigh of relief.

Not only is Magnus' dream of expanding the empire inland finally a reality, but Harald also realizes that his sons are grown and becoming remarkable men.

Could a man ask for anything more?

He thanks the gods for his family and their success as he lays down to rest.

Chapter 6

30 YSD

Ulf

Ulf's ships approach a large port city, and he sees that the shore is littered with massive boulders. He orders that his ships advance out of sight further down the coast, where they disembark.

Hills with defensive towers perched upon them surround the city, and gates block all entrances. Scouts are sent ahead and find a gate with only a single tower protecting it. The gate opens into a large courtyard, which will remove the possibility of being bottlenecked by the enemy if they can pass through it safely. It is on the opposite side of the city, but Ulf decides that it is the safest entrance, so his force circles the town while paying close attention to the surrounding area for the possibility of an ambush.

Attempting to take the gate is a bloody mess; arrows and hot oil end many good men. Eventually, the entrance is destroyed, so the Ægir troops smash through those guarding the opening and quickly enter the courtyard. Ulf sends his archers up the hills, where they fire upon the enemy. Fighting ensues for many hours, but eventually, the enemy is defeated.

Victory!

A city on the western island now belongs to the Ægir.

I will call this city Heim.

Chapter 7

30 YSD

Troels

Troels sits atop a large hill, breathing heavily with his eyes closed. He starts most days with a long run followed by a vigorous sprint up this steep hill. Finally, as heat radiates from his energized body, he slowly brings his breathing back to a relaxed pace.

Usually, he would follow his morning routine with a good meal and hours of training, but today is different. Today is the beginning of a new chapter. Today he becomes a man.

This morning, his father gave him his first assignment: to take a small town to the south. The enemy conquered by his father has some remaining supporters, who once scattered throughout the land, now gather and plot vengeance. If fortune favours Troels, this mission could change everything for the young man.

Since he could walk, Troels has been training. While his brother Ulf dreamed of a domain of his own where he could rule undisturbed, Troels dreamed of being a warrior.

The name Troels means the arrow of Thor, and he wishes to live up to such a mighty name.

Point me in a direction and watch me fly.

Alongside Ægir warriors, he follows a strict training regiment. He trains in hand-to-hand combat and works diligently to be proficient with many weapons. While he knows he still has much to learn, he hopes that his hard work has prepared him for what lies ahead.

As he sits atop the hill, the sun beating against his skin, his thoughts drift from the task assigned to a different matter. A maiden who he trains with, Hilda, races through his mind. They are around the same age, but (and he would never admit this to her) she is far more skilled in combat than him. Her mother serves in his father's army and is one of his fiercest warriors. Hilda dreams of fighting by her mother's side one day, so she trains endlessly.

Troels and Hilda train together regularly, but recently Troels noticed that he thinks about her more and more. However, she shows no interest in him romantically, her focus totally dedicated to training. Yet, as he breathes deeply atop that hill, he smiles as her fierce eyes pierce his mind.

…

Troels and his small army march towards their target between mountains and a large river. As they finish preparing their camp, a scout returns in a panic.

"Enemy troops…heading towards Iverni!" he exclaims.

Troels' army is the only one close enough to defend the town, so they must return home. They quickly pack up their camp and begin the march back to town. His men are tired but push on, as they know their capital will likely be ravaged and all who remain slaughtered. The small garrison left to guard their home will be no match for a trained army.

Troels imagines Hilda, who remains in the town, fighting off the invaders with her countrymen slain around her, so he orders the troops to move faster.

…

Arriving in town just in time, Troels can see the enemy approaching. He orders everyone fit to fight to take up arms and prepare to defend their home.

The enemy chooses to besiege the town, so Troels, confident in the ability of his people, meets the enemy outside the walls.

The battle is a blur. As his training takes over, Troels quickly moves from enemy to enemy. To his left, Hilda attacks with ferocious power and lightning speed.

…

A glorious battle, alas!

While Troels cannot clearly remember all that transpired, he does remember one thing vividly: his sword going through the midsection of the enemy general. Being the last of their clan, the enemy was fierce and had fought to their last breaths.

…

Despite dedicating his life to training, nothing prepared Troels for the emotions that follow war, such highs he has never felt.

To his surprise, everyone treats him differently now. His quick thinking, bravery and fighting skills have earned their respect. The celebration is wild; ale flows freely into many deserving mouths.

The biggest surprise of the night comes from Hilda. The whole time Troels has known her, she barely smiled, always so focused on her training. But, tonight, she smiles, she drinks, she even sings!

What a joy to finally see her happy. I know her mother is proud of the woman she has become.

Chapter 8

33 YSD

Troels

Many years have passed since the Ægir successfully defended Inverni. Troels no longer leads a small army; instead, he now leads a large group of battle-hardened warriors. Recently, he took a town on the east coast, but the original owner did not take that lightly. The enemy approaches with a massive army, outnumbering Troels' army two to one.

A challenge! It is better to die in glorious battle than to run and hide. We will not surrender.

Troels has dreamed of a battle like this, with the odds stacked against him. He feels the warrior inside taking control as the enemy approaches. His eyes scan across his army; they look as ready as he feels.

…

The battle is bloody; while many enemies are sent to the next life, many Ægir warriors are also lain to rest. Nevertheless, the lengthy war is won by using their masterful fighting skills while utilizing the terrain to their advantage.

What is left of the enemy force flees, likely to regroup and return.

We will be waiting.

…

As imagined, the enemy returns, but are a much smaller group than that of their first assault; the Ægir warriors quickly flatten them.

Word is that the aggressors were the majority of their nation's military, most of who now lay dead around the town, leaving their numerous thriving coastal settlements unprotected.

Mount an attack now, and I might find undefended cities waiting to be taken. Although, I may simply be underestimating their strength. If so, we might not be strong enough for such an endeavour. I will sleep on it; it has been quite an eventful day.

Chapter 9

33 YSD

Harald

So much good news all at once, thank the gods. Ulf's wife bears him their first child, Ulf's second son, Ødger, who sleeps safely in Heim, a city that flourishes as Ulf rules as a just and wise leader. And after a victory worthy of the sagas, it is now certain that Troels is indeed a fierce warrior. The kingdom is wealthier than ever, and the citizens sing praise. I feel my father smiling from Valhalla; his dream has certainly been realized. Hard work has paid off; tonight, we celebrate!

Chapter 10

35 YSD

Troels

A large Ægir army led by Troels marches south along the eastern coast as they take city after city, every attempt to stop them being utterly futile. Perhaps a blood lust has taken him, for Troels no longer joins the celebration after a victory. As the festivities unfold, Troels sits alone and only dreams of the next battle. Long gone is the boy who sat perched upon that hill; now, his life is war. He excels in combat and doubts that he will ever stop fighting.

He often dreams of those gruelling days of training with Hilda. His heart still longs for her, so he never married.

Troels learns that Hilda remains in Inverni, which has grown into a large city, and rising through the ranks, now commands the Inverni garrison. Troels considers offering her a position in his army, but her mother still fights alongside his father, and Troels knows that Hilda longs to fight alongside her mother, so he does not reach out.

Another night alone.

Chapter 11

36 YSD

Harald

Some think they hold more influence, power, or favour with the gods than their leader. While it is true that Harald does less fighting than he used to, this is only because he can leave the fighting to Troels as he spends his time managing his modest empire. Although governing bores him, it must be done. His bureaucratic lifestyle leads some to believe that he has gone soft; so much is expected of a warrior king.

A recent rebellion in an Orkney city seems like the perfect way to demonstrate that he is the same man who helped carve out this kingdom, that he is the same man who has slain countless foes. The Orkney armies are off on a southern campaign, so Harald offers to help restore peace in their city.

…

Harald's excitement grows as he approaches the rebel-controlled city. The sun is bright in the sky behind him as he watches the enemy emerging from the city's gates. They have far more warriors, but Harald believes his force has superior skill.

Let's see what matters more, skill or numbers.

…

Skill prevails.

...

Oh, how I've missed facing a worthy opponent, standing shoulder to shoulder with those I would die for, with those who would die for me. It brings back memories of fighting next to my father so many moons ago. How I miss this.

Harald realizes that he has never fought alongside his sons. While he is so proud of what they have accomplished, he wishes to see them in action on the battlefield.

A messenger relays to Harald that while Troels continues his southern march, crushing all that stand in his way, those who escaped his wrath have regrouped and are taking back northern towns.

Having already travelled quite far east to quell the rebellion, Harald feels this is an excellent opportunity. First, he will secure his kingdom by ridding the newly acquired towns of the invaders; afterwards, he will join Troels, and together, they can finish off the enemy.

…

Harald marches south along the coast and regains control of the lost towns.

Chapter 12

36 YSD

Harald and Troels

Harald sent word to Troels of his approach; now, they meet on the edge of the enemy's final city. Harald is overjoyed to see his son and immediately embraces him. Then, as he holds Troels by the shoulders, he examines the man he has become.

Troels sports a large beard covering a face covered in scars. He is no longer that skinny boy training with the hirdmen; now, he commands the respect of every warrior with a look of determination in his eyes that could send his foes running without him having to lift his sword.

"I have told your stories with delight, my son," Harald exclaims, "how you have grown!"

"Everything I do is for our nation, so I'm glad my work pleases you. The last of the enemy is hiding in the city. I will follow your lead, father; let's end them." Troels says.

Harald is elated and says, "My boy, you bring joy to this old heart. Once the battle has concluded, I wish to announce to all that no longer will your brother be the heir to the throne. You have proved yourself beyond my expectations; you shall lead our people when I pass."

Troels stands speechless. Never has he considered leading from anywhere but the battleground. Always assuming his brother, being the eldest, would be next in line to rule, he never even imagined the possibility. After processing what has been said, Troels responds, "Thank you, father, this is a high honour. I will give it my all just as I have done on the battlefield."

"I am only 52, my boy. You still have time to enjoy your youth. While the idea of leading may be daunting, I know that you'll make a wise leader just like your grandfather before you. But now, let's put such matters out of our minds. I wish to fight by your side. Shall we?" Harald asks.

"Aiii! Let's end this bothersome foe once and for all!" Troels shouts.

…

The Ægir advance, and side by side, Harald and Troels battle the last of the enemy. The enemy is desperate and has many fighters, but the Ægir cut through them as they capture the city.

…

An extravagant celebration is thrown, and Troels is declared heir.

Chapter 13

38 YSD

Ulf

It has been two years since Ulf was stripped of the title of heir. At first, he tried to understand his father's choice; maybe he has not done enough to live up to his family's reputation.

Nonsense, he secured a city on the western island and rules it well; the citizens are happy, and the city continues to grow. Still, they do not produce much profit yet, as living without allies on your border is difficult.

The doubt Ulf feels in himself gradually grows, and now all he can think of is proving his worth. Until he received the news, he had been very content managing his city and ensuring the security and prosperity of his people, but his humiliation compelled him to need more. Two years spent dwelling on what was taken from him has birthed an all-consuming madness, held inside, never shown.

On a frigid night, he is approached by a woman who informs him that his newborn daughter has passed away. He can no longer control himself; his pain is overwhelming.

He destroys anything that can be shattered, burned, or crushed. The man who once prided himself on being master of his emotions has lost control. Behind wild eyes, horrible thoughts manifest in his tortured mind.

His city is surrounded by nations much stronger than he and his; still, he fantasizes about torching every one of their buildings. He needs the world to share his sorrow, so he summons his troops.

…

Ulf and his men go from town to town, sacking and burning while killing all who stand against them. Some Ægir warriors try to stop the carnage, but they are quickly made an example of as swords secure their silence. To motivate any wavering warriors, Ulf allows them to take any loot and split what they find among themselves. He cares not for gold and jewels; he desires only flames.

More!

…

Outside a large city, Ulf waits impatiently as his scouts explore the city's perimeter. Curiously, he watches the city's gate open and a lone man on horseback approaching. Once within speaking distance, he dismounts and says in a friendly tone, "Ulf, what do you mean by arriving outside our city in the dead of night, we knew not of your visit, or we would have prepared a feast. My king has heard of your recent activity and would like to avoid hostilities between our nations. We have been trading partners since your grandfather ruled your people, so my king would like to extend a gift to you in hopes of maintaining our long-standing relationship. Many carts are being loaded with weapons and ale. What do you say?"

Ulf barely hears the man's words but approaches with an outstretched hand and a deranged smile. Once the men have locked hands, Ulf removes a dagger from his belt and drives it through the man's heart.

"We attack now!" Ulf orders, drawing his knife back as the man collapses.

…

A soft glow illuminates the night as flames rise. Ulf returns to where the messenger lies and silently watches another city go up in flames.

A man and woman run from the city. The woman is holding a young girl in her arms as they are chased by one of Ulf's men, who laughs as he pursues them, swinging his sword wildly.

"Come, come, there's nowhere to go," the trailing man shrieks.

The mother trips, and she and her daughter slam against the hard ground. Holding a small knife, the husband turns to confront his pursuer, being all that stands between the threat and his family. Within seconds, the father is on the ground with blood pouring from his throat.

The mother is grabbed by the hair and dragged towards the burning buildings. As she struggles to get free, the daughter grabs the knife from her father's hand and charges the soldier. She slashes him across the back of his leg, and the man lets out a bellow. He spins, still holding the mother's hair, and then with his good leg, kicks the girl in the chest, sending her flying with a tiny scream.

Something suddenly clicks in Ulf's mind as he sees the little girl hit the ground; the fog of hate and anger is no more. The mother screams as Ulf approaches. The soldier continues dragging the woman towards the fire as the little girl somehow finds the strength to get back to her feet.

Ulf reaches her side, and as she looks up at him, Ulf puts a finger across his lips. She nods, and Ulf quietly approaches the soldier, then unsheathes his sword and drives it through the man's back.

As soon as the mother is released, she sprints to her daughter and gathers her in her arms. Then, the two disappear into the darkness as they escape their burning home.

Ulf stands motionless, memories of what he has done now being viewed through a clear lens. He demands a withdrawal, and he and his warriors return to Heim.

…

Alliances shattered, adversaries provoked, so many good people buried.

Ulf stands outside of Heim, surrounded by bodies. It has been months since the end of his rampage, and now he is left to face the consequences. His enemies retaliate with wave after wave of their best units. The Ægir warriors have stopped them so far, but how long can the depleted army hold out?

Ulf cannot call for reinforcements as his father and brother aid the Orkney in their own war. As a result, he feels totally alone and vows never to be a slave to his pain again.

Protecting his home becomes his only goal; however, he knows they will likely be overrun as he watches countless soldiers approaching.

I could abandon these lands and return home.

A retreat is possible; Ulf could return home and live a comfortable life, leaving his dreams of independence to die on this bloody battlefield. After some consideration, he makes up his mind.

I would rather die fighting than give up my home. This will likely be my last stand; if so, so be it. While I deserve whatever horrible death lies ahead, I will persist. Better I fall as I fight for my dream than to live the life of a coward.

…

Today, the gods were on our side; somehow, we won a battle against an army triple our size. I still don't know how we shall survive the next wave, but for now, we live. It'll take everything and more to pull us out of the hole I've dug. So many good men lost, and for what, to satisfy my rage? I am a fool. If I survive this, I will do all I can to make things right.

...

Another battle is decisively won by using tactical skills rather than brute force. Well, not without a bit of brute force. I surely don't know why, but the gods smile on me today. Victory!

…

After months of warfare, the enemy has fled our land. They know the strength of the Ægir now, and they have turned tail and run. While the cost of my atrocious actions is undeniable, I hope now to fix what I've broken. The enemies made will not just disappear, so I will rebuild my army and then tactically capture their territory. Rather than fighting on my own, I will be joined by allies to make my work more manageable, as my father has sent word that he wishes to help. Maybe I would have denied his assistance in the past, but today I realize that I cannot do everything on my own. I undoubtedly would have perished alongside my loyal warriors if my rage pushed me further on my suicidal campaign. To die for something is one thing, but that was simply dying for naught. I have learned much over the past years. Now, I have work to do.

Chapter 14

40 YSD

Troels

Harald is to join Ulf in Heim, but Troels has a request for him before he leaves.

"Would it be alright if I took one of your warriors to serve in my unit? I know my army already has many fierce warriors, but one more couldn't hurt."

"Of course, who were you thinking? Arne? He has dispatched entire units single-handed. Or Halfdan? I hear that he fights wolves in the mountains when we're not at war."

"I was hoping that I could take Solveig."

"A fine choice. While Solveig is one of my elite warriors, I feel that your choice isn't made using military intuition. Isn't she the mother of your old training partner?"

"You don't miss a thing, father. Yes, indeed, she is Hilda's mother. Hilda always desired to fight by her mother's side, and fighting alongside you has shown me how special that is. I'd like to call Hilda from the garrison and have her fight in my unit. She proved to be an adept warrior during the battle of Inverni; I have no doubt she will benefit my unit with her skills."

"It's done. I'll let Solveig know at once. As you lead our people in my absence, take every chance to learn. I know you will make a wise ruler. Now it's off to help your brother build his empire. I love you, boy. May the gods continue to bless your path."

With that, Harald turns and leaves.

A youthful grin creeps over Troels' face as his father's back turns. He has not seen Hilda in many years, but he hopes that she will accept his offer. After all these years, she is still the only woman he dreams of.

Troels hurries off to have the offer sent to her.

Chapter 15

41 YSD

Ulf

My father visited my home for the first time with an ambitious plan: with three great armies, we will annihilate the two enemies that continue to attack Heim. His strategy is straightforward, I will move along the western coast, an Orkney army will move along the eastern coast, and his army will push south inland. By doing so, we will destabilize their empires with our combined power before taking control.

To my surprise, he applauded the defence of my land without mentioning my multiple wretched indiscretions.

I'm excited to end the war and go back to governing my home, but I will have much more to manage once our work is done.

Chapter 16

41 YSD

Troels

Being left in charge, Troels realized, is not as exciting as he hoped. A few weeks ago, he wanted to push south to take a wealthy city by the coast, so his troops began their march. But, as they advanced, a messenger brought word of rebellion in a Ægir town east of Inverni. As a result, he was forced to turn back and march north, needing a show of force to quell the uprising.

As crushing small armies and interacting with his citizens is terribly dull, and as he still craves a challenge, he prays that this added responsibility will not permanently keep him from the battlefield.

…

Hilda and Solveig have made significant additions to Troels' army. The two are inseparable, training together every day and fighting side by side.

Troels and Hilda also fight alongside each other. Years of training together allow them to coordinate their attacks so well that they seem to fight like two bodies with a single mind.

After a decisive campaign, the southern border is secure, and their southern allies secure the land further south, creating an intimidating barrier that would take tremendous strength to breach.

While this ensures the security of the Ægir land, an event of far more importance is just around the corner.

…

As Troels works tirelessly to manage the Ægir territory, Hilda begins to show affection towards him.

Troels wastes little time before asking her, "Could we fight side by side against all who would dare stand against us, for as long as we still breathe, as husband and wife?"

To his surprise, she accepts.

Chapter 17

42 YSD

Ulf

Three towns fell to my army, and we are besieging a large city. Although I was worried that my father's plan would spread us too thin, I am reassured by our continued success.

…

The fools leave their city to meet us head-on, giving away their tactical advantage. We overpower them, and some escape back into the city. The siege continues.

…

The siege is concluded with minimal losses.

…

I've completed my portion of our campaign, capturing the enemy's settlements along the northern and western coast. I sent word of my success to my father and am travelling to his location to help him complete his work.

…

Father has done well, as has the eastern army. The enemies' territory rests under our control, all but one city. I met my father at the edge of an enormous city, which he's besieged for weeks. I can tell his troops wait restlessly. Grand siege towers were erected to breach their defences, tall enough to give our force access to the top of the walls. I asked him why he chose to wait, and he exclaimed that he was waiting for me, his exact words being, "Why not share the fun?" Madman, but his logic was sound; better to attack with two armies than one. The enemy's defences are hardy; rows of archers and massive catapults line the walls. Father is eager to complete the campaign with me by his side. His exhilaration is contagious, and I've started to grow excited as well.

…

While I prefer a comfortable life living in my home by the sea, I cannot deny that our arduous labour yielded lucrative results. As a result, eight towns and three cities on this island now belong to the Ægir. Father tells me that he will head back to Inverni to relieve my brother now that we have concluded our work, leaving the eleven settlements under my command. I will do my best to lead these people honourably as he would. He truly is a tremendous leader.

...

Spending time with his father caused Ulf to think about his own children as he returned to Heim. Ulf constantly finds Ødger, the younger of the two boys, with his nose in a book, reading at a furious pace. Axel is 13 but already tries talking his father into giving him an army of his own. He is ambitious, but Ulf fears that he cares more for fame than the Ægir's longevity.

Wisdom comes with age; how I know that more than anyone.

Chapter 18

43 YSD

Harald

As I sailed back to Inverni to reclaim the role of leader from Troels, I realized that my return wasn’t necessary. Troels is leading excellently; he keeps the nation running smoothly in my absence, so what’s the rush?

Since my wife passed away many years ago, my home has felt empty and cold. Besides, my father was still fighting at my age, so why should I choose to return to sitting and talking? The fire still burns inside of me; I wish to fight.

I sent word to Troels that he is to continue leading, and then I set sail south with my warriors to see what challenges await us. I’m not ready to settle into old age just yet. What lies beyond the horizon? I'm eager to find out.

…

Word reached me of an ally’s city, which is now controlled by rebels due to lousy management. The usurpers think it wise to overthrow my partner; we shall see if their anger is still righteous once they’ve met my axe. I don’t mind being a good neighbour; they've done much for my people, so it’s only fitting that we should show our appreciation.

…

The rebellion is quickly crushed. I’m glad we could be of assistance.

Onward!

…

Ha, those fools challenged us at sea. Did they not know who we were? We rule these waters. First, we sunk their ships, then we sacked their city. What a tremendous hoard we discovered. It will make a wonderful gift for my grandchildren.

Not only was our retaliation lucrative, but it also served as a reminder to all that the Ægir are free to go where they please.

I thank the gods for the many trials I've faced and how alive they've made me feel.

Chapter 19

45 YSD

Troels

Oh, how I miss a good fight.

The years of leading the nation have streaked Troels’ long dark hair with silver. He and Hilda work tirelessly to ensure the well-being of their people, and their hard work pays dividends. Every mouth is fed, and luxuries once only a dream now become standard. The two genuinely desire to serve their people to the best of their abilities, and as a result, they find that they are loved and appreciated.

Still, there is a nagging feeling deep in Troels. He finds joy in combat, and every day as sovereign leaves him more restless. He sees the same in Hilda, and while she smiles and pretends that everything is alright, he sees through her mask. The ache for a challenge, for the open air, for adrenaline. To sprint at an enemy with a single goal, with absolute focus.

Years ago, his father sent word that he would return to relieve the two of them of their duties. The news excited Troels, and when he told Hilda, the glowing smile on her face was one he hadn’t seen in some time.

But then his father decided he wanted to take some time to explore the south. While they understood his choice to spend his days sailing and fighting, the news was heartbreaking to them. But what could they do? This responsibility was bestowed upon them; it was theirs to fulfil.

How I wish for one more epic battle, another vicious enemy, one last fight.

Chapter 20

49 YSD

Harald

Recently I turned 65; now, I stand against an army just like my father did at this age. Sadly, he died on the battlefield, still fighting with his last breath. I will charge into battle ahead of my warriors just as he would have. It would be fitting to die as my father did, but the gods decide all.

…

Harald and his warriors chase the enemies who run in all directions to escape their fate.

…

Alas, victory! The last six years have been the best I’ve had since I was a boy. I’ve held the responsibility of leading the kingdom for so long; it feels good to sail free, not bound by a home. Six years of freedom to do as I wished unrestrained. But alas, I am no spring chicken. As I feel age creeping through my bones, I know my responsibility lies with my people.

It’s time to return home.

Chapter 21

49 YSD

Troels

A sumptuous feast begins in Inverni to celebrate the heir and his wife. People from across the Ægir’s lands come to join the festivities. Allies bring gifts; subjects do too. Troels spares no expense in hopes that everyone will feel as good as he does tonight. The revelry will likely last many days, so more food than all in attendance could possibly eat in a week is prepared, along with pools of mead and copious spirits.

Troels sits at a magnificent table with Hilda to his left and Solveig to his right. The three laugh with their guests and spread joy to all who approach.

What is this fantastic news that brings joy to all in attendance?

Has there been a remarkable victory?

Not that they know of.

Has a powerful enemy crumbled?

No, they all still wait, plotting to end the Ægir rule.

Then what has led to such a glow from these three warriors’ smiling faces?

For many years the burden of leadership has occupied Troels and Hilda, leaving little time for such exuberance.

What then?

What could have possibly filled Troels and Hilda with such joy, who now make the dance floor their home as they spin like young lovers?

Weeks earlier, their first child was born!

Solveig gave the child the name Gunhilda, a mighty name well suited to the daughter and granddaughter of warriors.

Troels was reluctant to be a father, as he had no interest in fatherhood's labours, but from the moment he lay eyes on his daughter, he knew that he would die for her a thousand times over if that is what it took to keep her safe.

While usually, daughters are married off at a young age, Gunhilda will have a different fate. As the soon-to-be leader’s first and perhaps only heir, Troels wishes she lead one day. While it is rare for a woman to rule an empire, he will offer her all he has to give if she is ready. He will train her from her first steps, just as he was. He is confident in who she shall become as she already has many experienced role models to guide her on her path. Troels has no doubt that she has a bright future ahead of her.

Oh, the gods have truly blessed me. Life could not possibly get any better than it is at this moment.

Troels is correct, for as the festivities rage on into the night, to the east of Inverni, across the sea, Nordsmen prepare a great army, readying themselves for a summer raid on a faction said to have amassed great riches, those who call themselves the Ægir.

Chapter 22

50 YSD

Ulf

I’ve spent years rebuilding the lands that I once ruined. While I forever feel obligated to support these lands, I’m pleased with what I’ve accomplished so far. We have built farms, mills, mines, and entire towns which rapidly flourish. As a result, the population grows, and people from all over migrate to my lands. I hold heavy guilt for my past conduct but simply wish to balance the scales and end my life net positive.

But now, an enemy approaches from the south. Damn them, things have been quiet for so long. Why must they bother us with their feeble conquest attempts? Have they not heard the Ægir’s sagas? Do they not know that we will crush them. They burn our new buildings and chase my people from their homes. They must be stopped.

Axel is 20 now and restless to join me as I deal with these fools. If he wishes to join the fray, then so be it. I’ll give him a small army, and he can capture the enemy's towns while they are distracted by my defence. Then, when they turn and run as they realize all hope is lost, they’ll have nowhere to run to. Finally, he’ll have war stories to tell, for that I know is what he truly desires, and the enemy will no longer be a threat. If the gods allow it, they will be vanquished.

Ødger is 17 now. He shows no interest in fighting; instead, he’s fascinated with governing and diplomacy. He says that he’ll make the kingdom richer than ever, but no one will need to lift a sword. Unfortunately, the naivety of youth blinds him to the brutal reality of how empires are forged, so I’ll introduce him to the truth through battle. He’ll also be given a small army and will assist in circling the enemy and taking their towns. It’s time he learned how the world really works.

Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

Chapter 23

50 YSD

Troels

Finally, some action. Down by our border, a massive army has taken control of our southern ally’s city, and they've asked for assistance. So, of course, I accepted. Not only to be a good neighbour but also because I needed to get out and move this stiff body. The boy who ran every day is long gone; nowadays, I find it harder and harder to get out of bed. The sea breeze in my hair as we sailed south did me well; currently, we march west to meet a formidable foe. We shall see if they're truly formidable.

As Troels’ army moves west, many of the people they pass recognize him and his force. Some smile and wave, some offer food and other small gifts. If the measure of a leader’s success is how those they govern feel about them, then Troels supposes he and Hilda are doing quite well.

As Troels and his men take a short break in a small mountain town, he sees a single horseman racing towards them from the east.

To Troels' surprise, when the rider gets close, he jumps from his horse and starts running towards Troels while reaching for something in his cloak. A couple of Troels' men grab the man and throw him to the ground.

“What do you have in your hand, boy?” a battle-worn soldier growls.

The man does not respond, as he is terrified, out of breath or both, but instead pulls a gold arm ring from his cloak.

The man has Troels' attention now, so Troels approaches curiously. “Where did you get that? Answer me! What is the meaning of this?”

“Hhh…hhh..hhh…Norsemen….from the sea….twenty ships….Adils gave this to me so you’d know I speak true.”

“Where?" Troels exclaims, "WHERE!” Hilda remains in Inverni, governing while pregnant with their second child. Inverni is easily accessible from the eastern sea.

“I don't know. I only know that they were spotted near the coast. But that was back when I received the instructions to find you. That was six days ago.” The messenger falls onto his back, exhausted.

A million thoughts race through Troels’ mind, and fear creeps through his bones. As the Ægir nation is no longer on best terms with those from their home country, he fears the worst.

Not able to get out of his mind the image of Inverni in flames, with his wife and daughter consumed by the blaze, he panics and screams, “Everyone on your feet, we're leaving now!”

The trip back to Inverni will take some time as their ships need to be prepared, and they still need to march back to the water.

This all brings back memories of the Battle of Inverni so many years ago, but then Troels was able to make it back in time; now, he does not know if that will be possible. The only thing that brings Troels some relief is knowing that since the Battle of Inverni, the city has been fitted with large walls and mighty defences, and he trusts Hilda to mount a gallant defence if it comes to that.

…

The Norsemen approach a small port town, a four-day march from Inverni, but less than a day by ship. Perhaps they will just sack the town and be off.

…

The town is sacked, but a portion of the force remains as they lay claim to the land. The majority of the Norsemen move west, burning every building they cross.

…

Troels sails north, having had every little bit of unnecessary weight removed from his ships to increase their speed as much as possible. Being an hour earlier could be the difference between life and, well, he prefers not to think about what will happen if they are too late. So as the sea spray strikes the motionless man, he stands silently on the bow asking the gods to put strong winds behind their sails.

...

The Norsemen sack a prosperous town by the mountains, then continue their march.

Chapter 24

50 YSD

Ulf

We patiently waited for the enemy to advance into our trap, and while they took much longer than expected, finally, they are moments away. When they were close, I sent Axel west to take their coastal city, and I sent Ødger east to take a small town they’ve been using as a base. I’ve given both of them a direct order to retreat if the target is well-defended, as I worry that they're unprepared; they haven't gained any essential experience that can only be learned on a battlefield. However, I learned to fight through fighting, so why am I wary? Was my father as concerned about me when I first sailed west?

…

In a small clearing within a dense forest, the Ægir meet their rival. Ulf's many archers hold the enemy at a distance, Ulf's justification for this conservative approach being that even if he and his men are defeated, he will have given his sons as much time as possible to complete their objectives. Eventually, the enemy valiantly charges despite the constant downpour of arrows, but Ulf’s men hiding among the trees ambush their zealous foe. Caught off guard, they break formation as their northern campaign abruptly ends.

…

Ulf’s men begin their southern march.

Chapter 25

50 YSD

Ødger

Why must I march through marshy meadows? Why must I walk through wretched wetlands? Why must my father insist on using force to conquer these lands? How many times have I told him that one can be far more profitable by pursuing diplomacy and trade agreements? He has not studied as I have; force is essential when establishing a kingdom, but diplomacy is necessary to thrive. How many more enemies will he make with his sword? How many good men will fall? When I lead my own cities, things will be different. I will produce such prosperity for our people and develop many enduring alliances. One day, we shall see whose governing style is superior.

…

As Ødger’s army approaches a small town, Ødger instructs them not to kill anyone. Instead, they march through the streets, making their presence felt, then meet with the town's governor.

Ødger explains to the governor that today is their lucky day, as they are being offered the chance to join the Ægir's magnificent empire. As a result, they will receive a share of the Ægir's food surplus and be protected by their powerful military; essentially, their needs will be satisfied.

The governor accepts with a big smile, although he makes his decision out of fear as he has heard numerous stories depicting the Ægir's ruthlessness.

Ødger merrily requests that a feast be prepared to celebrate the town's union with his people.

Chapter 26

50 YSD

Axel

Axel approaches a lightly guarded city by the water, and with a nod, he and his army enter the city and quickly end the garrison’s resistance. Axel is entirely dissatisfied. He wished his first battle would be a memorable fray, possibly spanning days, perhaps with the enemy surrounding his small force, outnumbering them ten to one. Then, thanks to his cleverness, they would be victorious.

What a tale that would've been; it would echo through our halls for centuries. Instead, I achieved this mediocre accomplishment. There is no time for merriment; once we have rested, we will march on. I will find my grand conflict.

…

Another town fell to Axel's men with little resistance, as most lay down their arms as the Ægir approached. Axel's frustration grows, but he heard some good news: an enemy’s city to the south is said to have a large army defending it. Axel recruits all who can fight from the conquered town using a stash of gold his grandfather gave him as a boy and begins to plan his upcoming invasion.

Chapter 27

50 YSD

Ulf

I marched through the town Ødger captured, but, to my surprise, I found no bodies or any indications of conflict. Instead, I discovered nothing but festivities! Speaking to my son, he told me how he conquered the town with his words. WORDS! He was lucky, but he must understand that negotiation isn’t always an option. He needs to learn that those unable to fight are inevitably crushed. Therefore, he will accompany me to a town to the south, and he'll fight by my side. No more talk of ruling with words; he'll realize how the world actually functions.

…

We took the town without resistance. Those who occupied the town didn't even fight, as the Ægir's savage reputation is well known. Will no one stand against us? I should be happy; no blood has been spilled, but how I wish to teach my boy that sometimes we must accept that the sword is our only choice. Sometimes, out of necessity, we charge into battle. How will he defend our lands if he can't fight? We will push on and find an enemy brave enough to stand against us.

Chapter 28

50 YSD

Hilda

The army of Norseman marches towards the northern coast, then takes the town next to Inverni.

…

Troels and his ships of restless warriors push onward.

…

When Hilda learned of the approaching enemy, she mustered an army. Three weeks ago, she gave birth to a son after carrying him for only eight months; now, she wonders if the gods helped her son arrive early so she would be able to join the battle.

She decides that it is best to end the enemy's trail of destruction before they have a chance to do any more damage, so she and her army march toward them.

...

It is a sunny day, but the sky is clouded by smoke; she sees a massive army west of a blazing town.

Hilda feels her heart racing, worry for her family’s safety now overshadowed by the thrill of the looming action. How long has it been since she was unsure if she would survive until nightfall? How long since she felt that her death might be waiting in the hands of an enemy?

Oh, the gods have blessed me with a challenge. What a wonderful day.

The Ægir army continues to advance.

…

Once they are close, Hilda can see that most of their warriors wear exquisite chainmail and carry large shields.

My archers will be of little use. So we'll have to find a different way to end them.

She notices that they have no cavalry, information that could be used to her advantage, but is aware that they could be hiding among the area's dense trees.

Putting her best units in the centre of her infantry line, including her own, she has the entire line spread to where it is only three men deep. Hoping this will stretch the line long enough to have the ends flank the enemy, she moves her cavalry to the left of the infantry line, where they are to wait for an opportunity to charge at the enemy's exposed flank.

…

The battle commences, and as Hilda presumed, her archers do little but distract the enemy archers. Their armour blocks the Ægir archers' arrows easily, but they return fire, laying waste to the unarmored Ægir units.

Hilda has her infantry advance, then when they are the distance of a javelin throw from the enemy, she lets out a fierce roar. Her infantry charge, and to the left of the line, they have enough units extending past the enemy so that they can get behind them. Enemy archers fire at the exposed backs of the Ægir warriors who flank the enemy, so upon seeing this, some of the Ægir cavalry charge the archers, who retreat into the forest. As the cavalry pursue, spearmen emerge from where they hid among the trees and ambush the cavalry. They quickly eliminate the entire unit.

The enemy units surrounded by Ægir warriors now flee, and the Ægir who were attacking the now running units attack the axe-wielding warriors who currently hold the enemy’s flank. They prove harder to rout, clearly an elite unit. So as the expert axe warriors continue to chop down the Ægir, the remaining Ægir cavalry move to the back of the enemy’s flank and charge. This quickly changes the enemy’s attitude, and those once heroic axe warriors now desperately try to escape.

As Hilda clashes with the enemy general's warriors, she sees enemies fleeing to her left, so she unleashes a war cry to encourage her men.

Suddenly, two spear units appear from the trees and ambush the flanking cavalry. There are severe casualties, but the remaining cavalry pull back just as Ægir infantry attack the spearmen.

Then, those last courageous Ægir warriors on horseback charge at what is left of the enemy whom Hilda's unit fights, leading to an immediate rout. When the enemies still fighting notice their general fleeing, they follow suit and escape through the dense forest.

Hilda orders her army to regroup on her, thinking it unwise to chase the enemy further, wary of an ambush among the trees.

Victory is ours. Tomorrow we will find them; tonight, we rest.

…

Late into the night, Hilda lies awake, reliving the battle in her mind. Still quivering with excitement, she wishes for Troels to return so that she can share her tale.

…

Troels is overjoyed as he returns to find Hilda safe with a baby boy in her arms. As Hilda hands their son over, she watches a single tear fall from her lover's eye.

The gods bless us indeed.

Chapter 29

50 YSD

Ulf and Ødger

News reaches Ulf of a large enemy army moving north, clearly hoping to stop the Ægir from devouring any more of their land.

A battle with them will make the perfect lesson.

The enemy marches along the coast, so Ulf orders his men to move west and capture an enemy’s town, hoping the enemy will pursue, providing Ulf’s men with an advantage.

A man who Ulf asked to keep an eye on Axel finds Ulf and reports that Axel has recruited hundreds of units and plans to attack an enemy’s large city. Ulf knows the city well and believes that Axel does not have the skills or manpower to take such a challenging target.

Axel only wishes to inflate his already massive ego. I fear what will happen if he is successful.

Chapter 30

50 YSD

Axel

As Axel approaches a massive city, he needs to take a second to prepare himself for what lies inside. He managed to find a decent number of fighters, but upon seeing the size of the walls before him, he begins to fear that he is still at a disadvantage. He recalls the sagas of his family before him, all the war stories recounted as they sat around a roaring fire; he wants a tale of his own. So his army surrounds the city and begins constructing siege towers.

…

The enemy must be confident in their ability; they march to end the siege.

Axel's fear kept him up last night, and as he sees what seems like endless soldiers flowing from the gates, he begins to shake. Then, a man who fought alongside his father for many years grabs him and shakes him vigorously.

“Snap out of it, boy. This is no time for cowardice. Remember your training, and push all thoughts of failure from your mind. The gods decide our fates. All you can do is fight.”

Wise words from a seasoned veteran. The fear does not subside, but Axel regains his composure, nods at the soldier and walks to collect his weapon.

I will surely die today.

…

While the enemy approaches, Axel has his army fall back atop a nearby hill. He positions his archers behind his infantry, his unit behind the archers, and his cavalry left of the main force.

When the enemy is within range, Ægir archers begin raining arrows upon the enemy, so the rival general orders his archers to do the same. Axel orders his men to hold their position, and the Ægir infantry creates a shelter against incoming missiles using their shields. His men look impatient, but Axel orders them to wait. Finally, the enemy charges.

The newly recruited Ægir combatants are unorganized and inexperienced. Most have never fought together, and many have never even fought before. As a result, the army Axel pulled together last minute is quickly being forced back, many falling to the advancing enemy.

Axel remains away from the fighting with his unit, fear tightly gripping the young man. Though a million thoughts race through his mind, his body remains motionless.

Then, after taking heavy damage, a group to the center of his infantry line begins to flee, leaving a hole in the Ægir ranks. The enemy pushes through the gap and attacks the Ægir archers, slaying many shocked ranged units.

“We must attack now!” one of the men in Axel's unit yells.

“Hold!” Axel shouts, mustering as much base as possible in his quivering voice.

I am failing my warriors. I am failing my family.

If only his legs would move, but they are firmly secured to the ground.

Suddenly a sign overhead roars at him, shaking him like the blasts of a thousand horns. A raven flies over the battle, then directly over his head. While Axel is not a follower of any religion, he understands the significance of the raven. Suddenly, all makes sense to the inexperienced general.

Odin demands courage!

“Attack!” the novice cries, so his unit pushes forward to fill the hole in the line.

The waiting Ægir cavalry take their general's cry as their signal to join the fight. They charge at the enemy's flank, serving as a powerful demoralizer. Slowly the tide begins to turn in the Ægir's favour.

Once Axel's unit fills the hole in the Ægir line, Axel continues to push forward, dealing heavy blows with each swing of his sword. His unit follows, fighting ferociously with enemies on three sides, not giving an inch back, greeting all who dare challenge them with menacing growls and feral aggression.

Finally, some of the rivals take flight.

All fear has left Axel as he swings his sword wildly, believing he is destined to win. What power faith can bestow.

The Ægir cavalry pulls back and charges again as the Ægir archers continue firing on the remaining missile units. More and more of the enemy run until what is left of the enemy is retreating.

Feeling unstoppable, Axel hounds the enemy, his men following his lead.

…

Later that night, Axel sits around a fire in his captured city and tells the tale of his great conquest for the first time, but certainly not the last.

Chapter 31

50 YSD

Ulf and Ødger

Ulf was incorrect in believing that the enemy would turn and march west once they learned their town was captured, as the enemy instead continued their northern march and sacked a Ægir settlement.

Rallying his troops, Ulf and his army begin to march toward the enemy.

...

Once he can see the enemy, Ulf calls his son to his side.

“See there, those men will not listen to reason, nor diplomatic talks, nor accept anything less than our heads as payment for their lost land. So what do you suggest we do now?”

Ødger is silent for some time. Then, with eyes pointed to the ground, he quietly says, “We must fight.”

A small smile creeps across Ulf’s face, and he puts a hand on his son’s shoulder. “I’m sorry,” Ulf chuckles, “I couldn’t hear you. What must we do now?”

Hearing his father's tone, Ødger raises his head to see his father's grin and exclaims, “We must fight!”

“That’s right, my boy. I will secure the safety and longevity of all I live to protect with you by my side. We will leave our fates to the gods as we meet our foe. Later, we will talk of strategies for governing these new lands, for I am honestly impressed that you already have such a keen mind for such topics. But today, I must ask you to clear your mind of such matters and think only of the warriors to your left and right. They will die for you if needed, and I ask that you be willing to do the same for them. Only in this way will we hold a tight line and defeat our adversary.”

“I give you my word, father. I will stand by my countrymen!” Ødger declares and grabs the hilt of his sword.

Ulf embraces the young man, then prepares his offence.

…

Side by side, father and son approach the enemy, Ulf intent on showing his son the necessity of war, and Ødger determined to do right by his father.

As Ægir archers lay waste to the enemy javelin units, the enemy charges, and Ulf orders a charge of their own. Father and son, surrounded by mighty warriors, rush to meet their foe. While the Ægir archers did well to lessen the imbalance, the Ægir are still outnumbered but certainly not discouraged as the warriors crash against the enemy.

…

Eventually, Ulf stands over the bodies of those who stood against him, his son cheering with his fellow fighters, all his goals for the day completed.

Chapter 32

50 YSD

Harald and Troels

Harald is greeted by a large celebration in Inverni.

As he walks to his son's table, he sees the man he watched grow from a playful boy into a fierce warrior, holding a baby boy of his own.

Overjoyed, Harald exclaims, “Long time no see my son, how things have changed. What do you call this handsome boy?”

Troels stands and offers his son to his father, who happily accepts the baby. “After much debate between me and my beloved, we decided on a name. Like the fearless man I love dearly, he will be known as Harald. So sit, eat, drink with us, and tell us all about your travels.”

"There will be time for that later," Harald says as he stares at the baby. "I've had much time to think. No longer am I the man I once was; time takes my strength every day. How long have you been leading already, and what a fine job you and Hilda have done. Everywhere I go throughout our lands, people sing your praise. I believe it’s time we made it official. Which leads me to my announcement.”

With baby Harald still in his arms, Harald gathers the hall's attention. “Hello all, it's a blessing to be back in your company. How I’ve missed this fantastic city and the people within it. Today is a glorious day, not only because young Harald here has joined our ranks, but because today a torch is to be passed. My son, has he done well by you?”

A thunderous roar fills the hall.

“I see. I feel the same way. So, just as every season must end, my time has come and gone. I feel it’s proper to pass the title of leader to Troels and Hilda. From now on, and until their season has run its course, they will continue leading our people to further security and prosperity. All in favour?”

A tremendous roar shakes the hall, every man and woman on their feet, shouting approval for Harald’s decision.

A night of festivities follows. What joy fills those halls.

Chapter 33

52 YSD

Axel

While his brother remains with his father in Heim, Axel governs the city he conquered, which he named Óttalauss. His brother has always been very close with Ulf, growing up in Heim with him. But instead, as Axel was Ulf's illegitimate son, he grew up on a tiny island with his mother. While Axel and Ulf formed a strong bond over time, no one was more important to Axel than his mother. So as soon as he secured Óttalauss, Axel sent for his mother, who now lives a lavish life.

Axel is known for the rowdy feasts he frequently hosts, serving strong mead and delicious food. As a result, Óttalauss is just barely pulling its own weight financially, also partly due to occasional attacks from an enemy faction with three cities on Óttalauss' border. Some might think morale would be low if the citizens, constantly being attacked, feared annihilation, but the opposite was true.

In fact, one could say Axel's highest priority is the morale of his people. He is not one to rule from some far-off chamber; rather, he drinks with his people, spends time with the elderly and downtrodden, shares what is his and listens to the concerns of those he shares his home with.

As beautiful music rings throughout the city, everyone is free to do as they please, and Axel ensures that good times are plenty.

There are many days when little to no work is completed, but when the time comes to defend their home, every able body man and woman takes up arms and follows Axel's commands. He won their allegiance with his modest approach; he won their hearts with his soulful singing. You could find him singing his heart out in the courtyard with a drink in hand more nights than not.

What glorious times these are.

But even the best of times must end; Axel now faces a crisis. A group of farmers, while working the land to the west of the city, were mercilessly slaughtered, along with the men tasked to protect them, leaving not a single soul to tell the tale. They were not given a warrior’s death in combat; instead, they were all found impaled with arrows. These were people that Axel spent many a long night with, so even though winter fast approaches, Axel furiously gathers his army to avenge his companions.

…

After a long, drawn-out conflict with many casualties, the enemy fell to Axel's army. Unsatisfied and wishing to end the recurring aggression against his people, Axel took his army south to assault another of the enemy's cities. Days ago, the last of the enemy's cities, the one to the east of Óttalauss, fell to the Ægir's allies, so with one final blow in the south, Axel ends the faction once and for all, securing peace for Óttalauss.

Chapter 34

52 YSD

Ulf

After spending two years working with his son, Ulf is impressed by the young man's aptitude for finances and governing. Ødger implemented cost-saving strategies, created new streams of income, forged trade relationships, and in all honesty, made the nation mightier without lifting his sword.

While that day on the battlefield certainly sharpened Ødger's mind and made him more realistic, he maintained his original belief that diplomacy and economic power are far superior than military might. But, of course, Ulf still does not agree; it is hard to change the mind of someone who has seen so much.

Ulf decides to surprise his eldest son; having not seen him for quite some time, a visit seems due.

A rival faction to the south is quickly growing economically. Ulf plans to travel south by sea, then cross west through their lands and sack every town of theirs he crosses, hopefully destabilizing the nation enough to hinder their meteoric rise. His path west will ultimately lead him to Óttalauss.

Ulf has heard numerous stories about the frequent festivities in Óttalauss but understands the young man's desire to release some wild energy. Nevertheless, Axel is already 22, so Ulf believes it best that his boy receives some fatherly guidance.

…

The campaign proved very profitable, though it had to end before making it to Óttalauss. While attacking a well-fortified city after a long siege, Ulf’s army suffered considerable casualties and was forced to turn back to the sea.

Chapter 35

53 YSD

Family Reunion

The streets of Inverni are crowded as people from across the land arrive by boat, carriage, and on foot, everyone wanting to take part in the festivities. Entertainers perform on every corner, here and there merchants sell this and that, and hefty quantities of food and drink are carted to the central courtyard.

A glint of excitement can be seen in every eye; electricity is in the air.

…

The first night of festivities commences with a tremendous feast. In the great hall, tables are arranged every which way in hopes of fitting as many guests as possible. Outside are hundreds more piled high with steaming food and large pitchers of mead and ale.

In the great hall, Harald sits at the head of the center table with Troels, Hilda and Solveig to his left and to his right, Ulf sits next to his wife Agatha, and beside them sit Axel and Ødger, shoving each other and arguing.

Drinks have only just started flowing, so the hall is relatively quiet. Nevertheless, Harald still needs to raise his voice to be heard by his family as he speaks. “How long has it been since we all sat in the same room? The happiness I feel in this moment is unmatched by any before. I hope the days of celebration match the gratitude I feel towards each of you for being here today.”

Axel shouts, “Farfar, I think you wish to match the revelry enjoyed in my city!”

“I think tonight you will learn what a real Ægir celebration looks like!” Harald counters with a wonderful smile across his aged face. “I have been blessed with 70 years of life, and I could not have asked for anything more than what the gods have given me. My hearty family sits around me, and our kingdom grows beyond my wildest dream. So really, what else can this old man do but sit back and smile at our progress?”

Troels says, “Ai father, we are blessed. As I work with the people of our land, I see so much contentment; they feel safe and satisfied as they help us further build our empire. None of this could have come to fruition without you.” Troels lifts his glass.

The rest of the family does the same, with a resounding “Ai!”

“And I couldn’t have done any of this without my father before me. He was the one who envisioned the home that we now enjoy. In fact, he would tell me of this very city when I was a young boy. He would constantly speak of the city he would build on these lands, with access to the eastern sea and with rich lands to the south. He didn’t get to see it through, but his words encouraged me to build this city. Inverni stands thanks to his wisdom and guidance.”

Harald stops and wipes tears from his eyes. “But today, as I live my seventieth year, I wish to impart my knowledge upon you. Whether you follow my words or not, that's up to you."

Harald pauses and takes a deep breath. "I wish for you to consider peace. We have so much and are as mighty a force as the great empires before us. I have spent much time reading the histories of kingdoms past, and eventually, all collapse despite their might. My only wish is a good life for each of you, so I ask you, will you choose peace? Eventually, there will be those who will grow jealous of what we have built and try to take it from us. So be it, I say slaughter those foolish enough to believe that they can match our power. Until that day, let's develop our settlements, stretch sturdy roads from city to city, and invest in our farmers and industries. Of course, keep our military strong, for I wish a good life for you, not the life of a fool or a coward.”

Looking around the table, Harald can see justified skepticism on the faces of his family.

Troels asks, "Battle is in our souls, father. How can you ask us to ignore our nature?”

“My dear boy, I thought you would understand out of everyone. Haven’t you realized what intelligent governing can do for the lives of our people? And more than anyone else, haven’t you witnessed firsthand how much death our wars cause? Not just for our steadfast warriors but also for the many citizens who are simply in the wrong place when enemies attack. I promise you that peace is fragile; war will never be something of the past for the Ægir. Eventually, there will be those who wish to challenge our stake to these lands, and when that time comes, I am confident you will be at the front of your army, marching towards the aggressors.”

“Indeed, I will, just as you would.”

Then, looking around the table, Troels asks, “What do you say? Shall we give peace a try?”

After a moment, Ulf stands with a drink in his hand and says, “Why not? Father has had more outlandish plans than this, and they've all been successful. Besides, we have soaked the earth with enough blood to please the gods for a thousand years. So why not enjoy the fruits of our labour?” Ulf raises his glass.

Troels and Harald do the same, and the rest of the family follows suit.

Chapter 36

66 YSD

Harald

Peace has been maintained by the Ægir for many years. While occasionally tranquillity needed to be defended with a sword, as was the case with a rare rebellion or aggression from an enemy, for the most part, the entire kingdom enjoyed many years of prosperity and harmony.

…

Late in Inverni, with a fire smouldering by his bed, Harald takes a final breath, satisfied with a life well-lived. Though his soul drifts away, his example remains in the minds of all who knew him.

…

That night, while the Ægir lost a remarkable man, they also lost something else, all promises of peace. Without Harald's guidance, all commitments to peace quickly become distant memories. Each family member has their own interests in mind, and without Harald to hold them accountable, temptations begin to grow. Nevertheless, the bond between the family remains strong; there are no thoughts of fighting each other, but there are many beyond their nation who have dreadful days to come.

Chapter 37

66 YSD

Ulf

Ulf mourns the death of his father, having just left Inverni after participating in the funeral rites.

Even great men must face the inevitable; death comes for us all.

Almost 60, Ulf experienced much prosperity during the era of peace his father ushered in, but his mind wanders. He knows of a rapidly growing faction to the south of Britannia and thinks it is about time he pays them a visit. He has repeatedly reached out to them with talks of diplomacy and trade, but they have rejected all offers, showing disgust towards the idea of harmony between the two factions. Clearly, they have big dreams, possibly of overthrowing the Ægir.

...

Arriving home, Ulf begins recruiting a large army as he prepares to set sail in the spring.

Chapter 38

66 YSD

Troels, Hilda, Gunhilda and Harald

Troels sits, deep in thought. Having spoken to his brother extensively during their father's funeral, he contemplates the proposed plan.

The years have been good to the Ægir. In the absence of endless war, Troels allocated their resources to the nation’s development, leading to magnificent growth. Where small towns once lay now stood bustling cities, great roads connected the lands, agriculture boomed, and they experienced such excess that there was much to trade with their many friendly neighbouring regions.

It hadn’t been the most exciting of times, but in terms of the quality of life of his family and his people, he could not complain. Still, the man he once was, eager for battle, lingers restlessly deep in Troels' heart.

His brother spoke of sailing to the south of Britannia and beginning an assault on a hostile faction. Ulf declared that most of the landmass could be under their control if Troels pushed from the north while he attacked the south. Those lands are the home of constant war and hungry people; his brother noted that his plan would benefit many struggling civilians.

Troels could not disagree, as while the Ægir experienced great peace, he watched as minor factions ripped each other apart, resulting in so much death and destruction. However, by using his strength, these lands could become subjects without the need for much violence, as not many could stand against his armies.

Knowing it is not wise to make decisions when struggling with sorrow, Troels sleeps on it.

…

Troels spends the night dreaming of the battles of his youth, smelling the fresh air on an open field as an enemy approaches.

…

Troels wakes with an energy he has not felt in many years and begins to ready his army for a spring campaign.

…

Over dinner that night, Troels' family detects a noticeable difference in his mood. The usually stern man seems excited, even laughing and making jokes.

Hilda asks her husband, “What has gotten into you? Are you unwell? Have you been drinking? You smile like a child who is up to something.”

“My dear wife, in the spring, me and my brother shall begin a campaign to secure this entire island under our rule. No longer will minor factions be killing each other over land disputes and power grabs; instead, we will unite the land and make it safe for all. No longer will innocents have to watch their towns burn as warriors battle within; rather, we will share the peace we have known for so long with all.”

Hilda looks suspiciously at her husband. Her love for her people has grown over the years; she knows that beginning a war will provoke retaliation, which means suffering for those she leads.

“Your father is passed less than a fortnight, and already his pursuit of peace lies tattered in the mud. Do you really believe that war is best for our people, or do you wish to quench that insatiable desire for combat that once consumed you?”

“I truly believe this will be best for all the people of these lands when our work is complete, but I cannot lie to you and say that I'm not in the least bit excited. I quickly grow old; I wish to stretch these legs once more. I have not been tested by an enemy in many, many years.”

Gunhilda yells, “I want to join you, father! Let me fight by your side!”

Harald jumps up and yells, “Me too!”

Gunhilda, now 17, and Harald, now 14, stare at their father.

Hilda quickly answers her children, “You two are far too young to fight, and don’t encourage your father’s wild dreams.”

Gunhilda responds just as quick. “Mother, I know the tale of you fighting when you were my age. Or is the Battle of Inverni fictional? Were you not 17, just as I am today?”

Holding back a smile, Hilda responds, “Indeed I was, but I fought out of necessity. I did what I did to protect our people. So what need do you have for joining your father?”

Gunhilda stands proudly and proclaims, “I am the Ægir's heir. How will I learn to defend our people if all I do is train? Life experience is vital for my development as leader. So does it not make sense that I fight alongside father, learning all I can from his example?”

Troels nods as he acknowledges the intelligent woman his daughter is becoming. Then looking at Hilda, he says, “She is not wrong, you know.”

Hilda looks at him with a soft smile and responds, “Yes, my dear, but it breaks my heart to see how fast she grows.”

Then, looking at Gunhilda with a steely expression, Hilda growls, “Fine, go with your father, but pray to the gods that you don't fall in battle, for if you do, you will need all of their protection to keep you safe from me, even in the afterlife I will find you.”

Gunhilda is not troubled by her mother's threat and instead pulls her into a tight embrace. Troels asks, “Will you not join us? She has much to learn from you as well.”

“One of us must govern these lands. I will remain with Harald and ensure you have what you need for your campaign.” She pauses for a second, then, still holding her daughter tight, whispers, “I fear things are changing too quickly. Are you sure this is the right path?”

“Only time will tell. I will do all I can to complete my work with as little bloodshed as possible. The gods have blessed us, giving us two beautiful children, our home and an era of peace, and how wonderful peace has been. Is it wrong to want to share it with all the people of this land?” Troels asks.

“I'll pray for you both every night. May the gods guide you on your path to victory.” Hilda says.

Troels nods and then wraps his arms around the women and holds them tight.

Chapter 39

67 YSD

Troels and Gunhilda

The campaign begins well enough, but there is much territory to annex, so the process is slow. Some try to stop the Ægir armies, but they are insignificant and do only minor damage.

…

Troels is quite impressed by his daughter's composure on and off the battlefield. Her focus is impeccable, and her skills finely tuned; he sees his younger self in her as she bravely runs at the enemy with fire in her eyes. Off the battlefield, she drinks and jokes with the other soldiers, who initially were skeptical of the young woman’s usefulness but have now taken her in as one of their own.

With a black eye and a gash across her cheek, she sits around the fire with some of the most ferocious Ægir warriors roaring with laughter.

Chapter 40

67 YSD

Ulf

An army of over 2000 men confronts Ulf as he holds up in a newly acquired city. Nevertheless, with his army of 1000 elite warriors, a sound strategy and the gods' blessings, the enemy is sent running. They will surely regroup and return, so Ulf offers them little time before he begins his pursuit.

Rest when you’re dead, old man. Now, there's work to do.

…

Leaving the safety of the large city was a terrible mistake, for as they pursue the enemy, the Ægir encounter thousands more who march to destroy them. Wild action follows, and while victorious, Ulf loses almost two-thirds of his force. So, he returns to his newly captured city with its high walls and strong defences to regroup, recruit reinforcements and await the next wave of hostiles. He hopes his brother is having better luck than him.

Chapter 41

68 YSD

Gunhilda

After a year of their military campaign, very little blood has been shed on Gunhilda and her father's side of the map. At first, there was some resistance, but after making it understood that there would be no stopping the Ægir, there was an overwhelming submission from most. That was up until the other day when a city chose to stand against the Ægir.

Her father demanded a full-scale attack in response. Gunhilda did not have the authority to question such an order and had no alternative option to offer, so she joined the fray. It was a bloody mess as the defenders did not wish to give up their land.

If only they understood that we don't wish to take anything from them; instead, we hope to provide them with the peace and security that being a part of the Ægir nation allows.

It is too late for such hindsight; the garrison was forcibly removed. The city now belongs to the Ægir, but the battle was devastating, as Troels used his recently acquired catapults to disable the enemy's defences. Unfortunately, they are inaccurate and did heavy damage to the surrounding buildings.

Gunhilda, with a pang of guilt needling her, persuaded her father to allow her and his army to help restore the basic infrastructure needed for life here.

"They are our people now, are they not? So then, we should care for them as we would any other," she demanded. Troels agreed, and the large army now works to clean up the mess they made.

Gunhilda is working with a team that prepares food for the city's residents. As she works, she has someone translate for her as she listens to the peoples' needs and organizes ways to meet them.

Sitting with a young man her age one afternoon, she learns the effect of the destruction on him and his family, not just material damage but also psychological. She listens to and validates his pain, notes his concerns and needs, then returns to work. She labours tirelessly to ensure that all are looked after.

…

When their work is done, the Ægir gather their belongings and continue south.

Chapter 42

68 YSD

Axel, Ødger and Harald

Stories reach Inverni, telling of the successful campaign to the south. Still upset that only Gunhilda was invited to join the conquest, Harald sits alone at home. How bored he grows, not a single attack, no rebellions, no one even dares step foot on their land.

Harald wishes to join his father in battle as he dreams of the sagas that would be written of his exploits and told throughout the ages. He constantly asks his mother when he can join his father.

"I'm 16 now. Surely I'm old enough to fight!" Harald says.

For the hundredth time, Hilda responds, "NO!"

Finally, she has had enough of him and sends him to Heim to visit his cousins.

...

Before he departed, Ulf instructed his sons to manage his land. Ødger is responsible for governing, and Axel is in charge of defence. While Ødger settled down and has two children, Axel remains the same as always, drinking joyously with his people, singing most nights, and living the life of a bachelor.

…

Harald arrives in Heim, and he and Axel visit Ødger at his home. Over dinner and after many drinks, Harald tells a beautiful tale of how the three of them could secure this land under the Ægir banner.

“Imagine the three of us with three separate armies moving south, how quickly we could take the entire island. Imagine the tales told; we would go down as those who unified the land. We could have glorious adventures, proving to all our bravery and wisdom, doing what our fathers never could. Before they come close to finishing their campaign, we will have the entire island under our control. Can you not see it? This is our destiny!”

Ødger is not quick to respond. He answers, “We have a good life here, cousin. We have built a prosperous empire; we face very few attacks. What else could we want? Is it really worth risking our home? The nations to the south of Óttalauss are fierce. Axel knows that better than any. I don’t believe that the three of us have the experience or military strength to handle their defences. I will not join you just to watch you die.”

Harald looks to Axel, who remains silent, then responds, “Have faith, cousin. Do we not have the blood of warriors running through our veins? Do the gods not bless the passage of all Ægir leaders. Why not us? Even without you, Axel and I can accomplish this great feat. So you may stay home and study your books; battle awaits us!”

“Aii, battle for us!” Axel chuckles, clearly not taking the young man seriously.

“So be it. I wish you two well," Ødger says and lifts his glass.

They spend the night laughing and drinking, and Axel invites Harald to visit Óttalauss.

…

Harald is instantly enchanted by Óttalauss. There is a certain magic in the air; it is unlike any place he has ever been. The days with his cousin flow by in a happy blur.

He spends his time watching and learning from Axel, who runs through the streets as he works to ensure his city is maintained and running smoothly. Then, at night, the two heartily unwind with the townspeople.

Harald is amazed by how little sleep Axel needs, as the man seems to be constantly accomplishing something, perpetually in motion but still finding the time to share smiles with the citizens.

Axel even finds the time to teach Harald how to play the lyre, and the two spend many nights entertaining the locals.

Late one cold night, as dawn quickly approaches, the two sit around a fire, the last two still awake after a particularly rambunctious evening.

Harald asks, "Cousin, do you ever wonder what this is all for?"

"What what is all for, Harald? You must be more specific. It's been a long night."

"We live and die, love and fight, and build great empires knowing they will all be reduced to dust one day. Why? Why do any of it? It all seems so devoid of purpose," Harald asks as he stares into the fire.

Axel needs a moment to process the question in order to answer it earnestly, as he has taken on the responsibility of guiding the young man through his developing years.

"That is not a simple question; it's one many men far wiser than I have debated since the dawn of time. I lived carefree for most of my life, not bound to any ideology or with any desire for an underlying meaning to my existence. There was just a life to be lived, so I lived it how I wanted to. But I speak to these Christians among my people and find that they hold such strong beliefs that it stirs my curiosity. I know not if they are correct or ludicrous, but the way they think has been a cause of my pondering, similar to how you are now. Eventually, I came to a conclusion, but I ask you to take it with a grain of salt as it is only the reflection of a modest mind. I feel it best that we give ourselves a purpose. Perhaps I simply refuse to let someone else tell me what I am meant to do. No, I say to you, give yourself a purpose; no one else should. I cannot tell you the best way to live your life because I am not you. It's up to you to choose the path you'll take, and then you must accept the rewards or consequences that path presents. But the choice should be yours."

Still staring into the fire, Harald shouts, "I know exactly what path I will take!" He stands up and slightly stumbles, then with a crooked smile, he looks at Axel and says, "I wish to be just like you. I wish for a beautiful city filled with wonderful people and my years filled with wild nights spent howling at the moon. I can think of no more joyful path than that. My path is chosen!"

Axel smiles, realizing his previous insights may have been lost on a muddied mind, and responds, "You flatter me, cousin, but it's not all fun and games; you've seen how much work it takes for me to keep this boat afloat. But if you're willing to put in the work, may the gods bless your path."

The two sit quietly around the fire for some time longer, then as Harald uses his bladder to extinguish the smouldering fire, Axel heads off to bed.

Chapter 43

70 YSD

Ulf

While winter begins its slow return, Ulf grows impatient as he assesses his situation. Another year has passed, and while his brother has made considerable progress on the northern front, he has mostly gone back and forth with the enemy, depleting his army and leaving the land uninhabitable. Ulf realized that he underestimated the enemy, who sent wave after wave of seasoned soldiers. From where they find these savage warriors, he does not know.

Finally, good news! One of our men who infiltrated the enemy's ranks sends word that their king will join their next assault, and they march towards us now! With a decisive blow, we can topple the enemy once and for all. With no heir to take his place, his nation will certainly crumble, and once broken into minor factions, it will be simple to sweep up the pieces.

Ulf takes his men down the coast, hoping that he can flank the oncoming enemy and split their forces by staying off the main road.

What could have been a decisive strategy to end their assault is foiled by a traitor in the Ægir's ranks, who made the enemy king aware of Ulf's plan to ambush his approaching army. He divided his force in three and positioned them around the clearing where the Ægir would emerge from, hidden and waiting.

...

Ulf's men push through the clearing onto the quiet main road and suddenly find themselves surrounded.

Ulf quickly decides to pull back through the clearing they just passed through, preventing the enemy from attacking them from three sides.

At least now, they cannot surround us.

The battle is a bloody one. The number of Ulf’s cavalry and archers has significantly been reduced over the last few months, and the enemy takes advantage of this, raining down an endless hail of arrows. The Ægir bury themselves under their shields, but numerous warriors are lost to the constant barrage. Finally, realizing that they will surely die if they continue to employ this defensive strategy, Ulf orders a charge.

A legendary battle ensues once Ulf and his men reach the wall of enemies, arrows still plummeting all around.

Ulf fights madly alongside his unit, those who have fought by his side through the worst of times. Suddenly, he watches a close friend fall in front of him, with an arrow protruding from the side of his head. Mind wild with fury, he orders his unit to push through the now wavering enemy line in front of him, and they reach the archers. Surprisingly, the archers fight instead of fleeing, making them easy prey for Ulf and his unit. Ulf's unit quickly destroys all who resist, and the remaining few archers run. With the problem of missiles now nonexistent, Ulf’s unit returns to the primary contest.

With weapons crashing all around him, Ulf unleashes a mighty battle cry to inspire bravery in his already fearless warriors.

The ground seems to shake as extraordinary power emanates from Ulf, pain and rage thundering from the wary warrior, who looks down to find the head of a spear poking through his midsection.

Ulf falls to his knees as a Ægir warrior crushes the man holding the spear with his axe. Then, as Ulf's eyes close, he smiles knowingly.

The gods summon me.

…

Upon seeing their slain leader, some choose to run. Others go berserk, having lost not only their general but a friend, and slaughter the enemy without an ounce of mercy. What remains when all is said and done is hundreds of enemies desperately retreating as the remaining Ægir warriors deliver the body of their slain leader to the last city they conquered. Finally, word of Ulf's passing is sent to his family.

Chapter 44

70 YSD

Axel, Ødger, Harald, Troels and Gunhilda

On what was once Ulf’s land, with Axel and Harald to the west and Ødger to the north, the men receive the news of Ulf’s end.

...

Axel paces furiously, blaming himself for not accompanying his father. Then, without much debate, he decides to move his army east, planning to deliver his wrath upon those who took his father from him.

…

Ødger sits heavyhearted with his family, his wife holding him closely, his children trying to ease some of the pain he is enveloped in. He learns that his brother plans to sail east and take what men he has to lay waste to as many enemies as the gods allow. Not wanting to lose another family member, he writes to his brother, trying to talk him out of his plot for revenge, but his scribbles are in vain. Someone must remain to maintain the home their father worked so hard to build, so despite feeling tremendous despair, Ødger will not join his brother. He has a family of his own to consider and knows his father would want the lands he loved to be kept safe and to continue flourishing.

…

Harald and Ulf had not been very close, having lived so far from one another, but they often saw each other at family gatherings. Ulf was kind to him and always found ways to make him laugh.

Harald knows how much his father loves Ulf and understands what he will surely unleash.

What breaks the young man's heart the most is watching Axel process the loss. The magic that followed the cheery man is gone, replaced by a chill in the air and a desolate stare from dim eyes. The two became very close over the years, Harald emulating the unique Axel, so watching as Axel is consumed by rage is shocking to the impressionable young man.

Axel tells Harald that he will be setting off in two days, and Harald, without a second thought, volunteers to aid his cousin.

…

Troels stands speechless, having just received the news. Gunhilda, standing by his side, puts her hand on his shoulder and asks, “What shall we do, father?”

Troels does not move, does not speak; in fact, he barely breathes. Time passes, and the man remains but a statue, unable to process what he learned.

Finally, he explodes, “The old fool! Had he been more careful, had he not been so ambitious and greedy! How can he leave us now, with the campaign far from over! How can he leave me! The enemy thinks they can take my brother from me; they will feel my unending wrath! Even now, they do not understand the gravity of the situation, what will soon befall them! Never mind this careful approach we have been taking so far; we strike now and take everything they have! They deserve no mercy; they shall have no peace! We will be relentless; we will be ferocious! We will bring death to all who fight for them; all who dare whisper their name will be silenced. They will find no kindness, no deals, no diplomacy! They will ahhhhhh!”

Troels’ words turn to incomprehensible screams as Gunhilda hugs her father as he shakes, hoping to put out some of the flames blazing inside the suffering king. “So be it, father, we will push south and wipe them from the map, but not foolishly. I will not lose you as well.”

Her words bring some clarity to the king, and she feels him nodding his head, still held in her strong arms.

“So be it. We will do it your way. Without your wise words, I may have found my end by the same hands that took Ulf. It’s good to have you by my side.”

Chapter 45

72 YSD

Troels and Gunhilda

The war never ends; the enemy seems to be constantly growing. While the Ægir attack the western and northern ends of the enemy's empire, they continue to expand eastward, rapidly increasing their strength. Some progress has been made, but years have passed since Ulf’s death, and still destruction has not met the nation responsible. Troels and Axel remain frustrated, while Gunhilda and Harald constantly advise patience, lest they eagerly stroll into demise.

…

Gunhilda has been fighting alongside her father for the entire campaign. She learned much but understands that far more ground can be covered if they attack multiple cities at once. She has certainly done enough to earn the trust of her fellow warriors, but her father still worries for her safety. He does not feel that she is ready, but she thinks otherwise. Her argument is sound, it certainly is more efficient to take two cities at once, but her father is a stubborn man, so much convincing is needed.

After much debate, she persuades her father to let her lead a portion of the warriors to besiege a southern city while he remains and continues the siege he is currently occupied with.

...

On her 23rd birthday, she finally marches south.

…

In the middle of the night, while Gunhilda's army maintains their siege, an army approaches, leaving the Ægir little time to prepare. Gunhilda quickly chooses an offensive strategy as she notices hundreds of archers approaching. Arrows begin falling all around the Ægir, so knowing that the longer they stand waiting, the more men they will lose, she orders every warrior to charge the enemy. Clearly not expecting this, the archers are scattered, and the enemy infantry is met with a powerful collision. What cavalry she has are sent to chase down the archers, and when they have finished off the archers, they strike the enemy from behind, breaking the spirit of the already frightened enemy. The battle is gruesome, with many losses on both sides. The Ægir army loses one-quarter of its force, but in the end, the enemy runs, and Gunhilda continues her siege.

Chapter 46

74 YSD

Axel

Since his father’s death, Axel has done all in his power to annihilate his enemy, entirely consumed by vengeance. Although he and his men have killed tens of thousands of enemies, it has not made Axel feel any better. The enemy has but six cities left, their end almost upon them. Still, Axel grows more restless. Taking any opportunity to kill more of the enemy, he has nearly lost his life on several occasions.

Axel learns that the king of the enemy nation is a two-day march north from his position, but it is reported that with him is a massive army. Axel knows that if the king were to fall, what remains of his empire would crumble. So, as the Ægir rest, recovering from a battle less than a week prior, Axel, not wanting to wait for even one more second, rallies his warriors, and soon after, they begin to march.

No longer does Axel care if his name is sung within the sagas; no longer does he care for any of life's pleasures. When he closes his eyes, the only dream he has is one of removing the king’s head with his sword. He has been fueled by hate for so many years; it has turned him from the man singing his heart out in the courtyard, the man drinking with his people, the man who cared for the happiness of those he was responsible for, into a cynical, outraged tyrant. His men dare not joke with him anymore; he snaps quickly and spends most nights alone. He focuses on this upcoming battle and nothing else.

Harald tirelessly attempted to cheer Axel up, but Axel would not be pleased by anything but revenge. He began regularly attacking the young man anytime Harald tried to lift his spirits. Finally, through his madness, Axel glimpsed the pain in his cousin's eyes whenever they were together. Needing to create some distance between the two, Axel equipped the young man with an army of his own and ordered him to take the surrounding towns while he and his warriors did the heavy lifting.

…

Finally, Axel and his army stand across from the king’s men. The king leads his men onward, and Axel does the same. Axel employs no strategy or cunning tactics; instead, he has his men charge forward, with no care for the arrows the enemy fires all around them. Axel chops his way through the enemy, always with the king in the corner of his eye.

Eventually, he reaches the king, so the king dismounts his horse to face him. Their swords clash, Axel swinging death blows with every strike, the king parrying and circling each attack. After the king blocks a powerful strike, he switches levels and swings his sword across Axel's leg. Axel staggers back, glancing at the deep cut through his thigh.

Axel isn’t deterred for too long and continues to push forward. He lands a blow to the king’s upper arm, forcing the king to drop his shield. Axel does the same. The two of them circle one another, neither striking, both waiting for an opportunity to land one final blow.

Axel lunges forward, wishing to drive his sword through his opponent's chest. The king fades back, then just as quickly, he advances and swings a powerful slash across Axel's gut. Axel falls to one knee.

Give me strength.

Axel pushes with his one good leg, throwing his body forward with such speed that the king has only a moment to realize what is happening. Axel's overworked blade finally finds a place to rest, snuggly seated through the king’s heart. The king staggers back and falls, Axel's sword clanging off the king's discarded shield as he hits the ground.

Having used the last of his strength to deliver the king's demise, Axel falls to the ground, blood pouring from his wounds.

As if a curse is lifted, all the pain that tortured Axel suddenly vanishes. One last time, his eyes shine bright, and the big smile he used to always wear once more stretches across his exhausted face.

You can rest easy, father; they have met their end. I will see you soon.

With that, Axel's eyes close.

Chapter 47

74 YSD

Ødger

Ødger sits around the table with his family. His wife, still as beautiful as the day they met, stares at him with knowing eyes, understanding the degree of distress her husband is experiencing.

Their two sons mature so quickly, and how it pains Ødger to see such a resemblance to his departed family in them. Eindride, now 12, sometimes shocks Ødger with how much he resembles Ulf.

Wishing to do everything on his own, the boy is constantly sneaking out and going on his own little adventures. He loves the forest, spending many days exploring the vast area. Already, he speaks of the fabled lands to the north, with talks of one day making them his home. Ambitious but realistic, the boy studies many hours a day, wishing to make a wise king for his own piece of the world one day.

Billie, now 10, is a charming boy, always helping his parents and wishing to speak with everyone he meets. Ødger worries, though, as he is incredibly absent-minded, wandering around without purpose. Ødger hopes he will find focus with maturity.

The boy walks through the halls of their home and the surrounding streets, singing in his high but echoing voice, smiling at all who pass him. It haunts Ødger when the boy sings as he does, hearing his brother in every song.

…

News of Axel's death reaches the people of Óttalauss. Such sorrow as theirs can remove the life from even the most vibrant place. No songs are sung, the usually cheerful streets are lifeless, and not a smile can be found. Those who felt Axel's love, those who experienced the joy he spread, those who enjoyed his company through wild nights, all are heartbroken. It is many months before anyone can find the strength to sing in the courtyard as Axel had, and when a young man finally musters the will to do so, he sings Axel's favourite songs, dedicating the performance to him with adoration in every note.

…

Within months the enemy’s kingdom is destroyed, and all that was theirs now belongs to the Ægir. Finally, Ulf is avenged.

Chapter 48

75 YSD

Harald

Harald sits in his room with two women and much drink, doing all in his power to mend the hole the enemy ran through his heart. Without war, without Axel, without a thing to do, drowning out the noise in his head becomes his only option.

Harald loved Axel more than anything; he was the big brother he never had. As a result of losing him, he spiralled into a chaotic mess, unable to comprehend a world without his cousin.

His father is many days away but sent word that he will collect Harald soon now that their recently acquired lands have been organized. Gunhilda is to stay and govern their new territory, and Harald and his father are to return to Inverni.

I will go mad if I return home.

I must fight.

I mustn't stop.

I can't stop.

…

In the morning, Harald has a couple of drinks to ease the pain in his head, then assembles what is left of his army.

…

Marching north, they sack a neutral faction's city. Then, using the loot from the raid, Harald recruits a massive army, having no other objective than to fight.

Must do something, anything.

Chapter 49

75 YSD

Troels, Ødger, Gunhilda and Harald

Troels is fuming as he sits aboard his ship. By sacking a settlement without his command, his son not only enraged the nation whose city was attacked but all of their allies as well. His action caused tremendous consequences; the new enemies border Ægir territory, and now the entire kingdom is in peril.

What was he thinking? He has jeopardized everything. Now three great nations have declared war against the Ægir; everything we’ve worked for is at risk. This will not end well.

…

Troels reaches land and begins heading towards his son but finds it hard to catch up. Harald moves quickly, not stopping anywhere for too long. Still, it isn’t hard to follow his path; Harald leaves a smouldering trail of devastation in his wake.

…

Ødger was told that a neighbouring faction is besieging three of his cities. As they have always been on relatively good terms, their sudden attack was quite a shock until he learned the reason for their aggression.

In response, Ødger gathers his army and bolsters the garrisons in his remaining cities. Luckily, Ødger has always been the type to be careful with his finances, so he has saved up a substantial reserve for such emergencies.

If there was ever a crisis, this is it. It will take everything we have to get out of this alive. We are all hurting; what was that moron thinking.

…

Gunhilda paces deep in thought, worried for her brother’s safety, knowing that he is not in his right mind. She knows her brother well; he is no fool. To have done something this idiotic, he must be processing Axel's death terribly. Having been left to defend their new lands, she has a choice: she could remain and protect their new territory or she could take her army and find Harald before he gets himself killed. She chooses the latter, wishing to reach him and douse the madness that engulfs him. She loves her little brother and will let no one stand between the two of them. Her father said he would search the western coast, so she travels north, hoping that one of them will intercept Harald no matter which way he goes.

…

Harald pushes north. He simply wishes to keep moving; he will not stop unless someone stops him.

Every settlement he sacks only encourages the young man, with all profit used to reinforce his already solid army. So many try to stop him; his wrath pushes him through their resistance.

…

Troels' army becomes the focus of the enemies' assaults, as they wish to take the head of the king. As a result, his progress is halted by their repeated attacks. Still, he is in his element with nothing but fighting on his mind. Decades of training, hundreds of battles, and perhaps a natural gift for warfare accumulate in the warrior king as he guides his mighty army to victory again and again. While little is accomplished, he is satisfied.

Chapter 50

75 YSD

Gunhilda

As Gunhilda moves north, she faces considerable opposition. Marching through an enemy's territory as your brother burns their cities is nothing but complicated, but love drives her onward despite the challenges.

Yesterday, she and her army defeated a massive enemy force, but now scouts report an even greater army approaching. So, deciding it better to retreat and fight another day, her force moves west along a river, temporarily out of harm's way. This is an intelligent move, but she has an ulterior motive. In most cases, she would have considered fighting to the death with the oncoming enemy, having faith in the soldiers she leads. But she wishes to guarantee her own survival for at least a few weeks longer.

During a victory celebration months ago, she and a friend got intimate under the stars. While she thought nothing of it at first, signs of pregnancy quickly began to show. She hides it well, but she knows her baby is on its way.

Her main concern is keeping her child alive; she wishes her baby to be born and sent off to Inverni to be kept safe.

My child, you are special; I can feel it. You have already been a part of several battles and haven’t even taken a breath. All I have to do is stay alive for a few weeks.

…

On a cold winter night by a roaring fire, Gunhilda gives birth to her daughter, Matilda.

...

Reaching the sea, they capture three fishing vessels. Then, with hopes that these boats will be able to sail north undetected, Gunhilda equips each ship with as many warriors as each can hold. As Matilda sails towards Inverni, Gunhilda prays for her safe passage as she marches north. Word is that her brother is only a few days ahead.

Chapter 51

76 YSD

Gunhilda

Gunhilda is revolted as she travels north. A town smoulder as citizens wander around without a home. Bodies of soldiers and civilians are scattered through the streets. Gunhilda speaks to the few who do not flee at the sight of her army and hears the horror story of her brother's army coming in the night while all were asleep and setting the structures alight. Then, those who tried to escape were executed by men waiting at the exits.

...

Upon arriving in the next town, she learns how the town's garrison had surrendered to her brother’s army but was still massacred. Then, without hesitating, Harald's army moved on. They had not even take the towns resources or riches; Harald simply took his troops and continued north.

Ports burned, churches burned, schools and markets reduced to ash. What has become of my brother? This is not the man I know.

Wishing these all to be lies told by a defeated enemy, Gunhilda quickens her pace. She must see her brother; she will not accept the truth present all around her.

...

Onward she goes, following the destruction.

...

She reaches a town that is still burning, though her brother and his army have already left.

She orders her army to do all in their power to extinguish the fires, as many individual blazes have not yet met.

The army does well, saving more than half the town from obliteration.

Without spending any additional time in the town, Gunhilda's army presses north, knowing it is just a matter of time before they meet the culprits.

...

Harald's army is in sight by the evening of the next day. He has amassed a significant force, much larger than Gunhilda’s. Harald's army is about a kilometre from a small fishing village; Gunhilda's is now only three kilometres behind them.

Whether Harald’s men notice Gunhilda’s or not, she does not know. But they continue towards the village nevertheless.

...

As night falls, Harald's army reaches the edge of the village. Torches are lit, and structures begin to burn.

Gunhilda momentarily stands shocked, then regaining her composure, orders her men to run the remaining distance.

...

They arrive at the edge of Harald’s army, and over the commotion, Gunhilda roars, “HARALD, FACE ME!”

There is silence, everyone turning towards Gunhilda.

Harald emerges from the crowd, dressed in armour, sword in hand.

“Long time no see, sister. Have you come to join in on the fun?”

“What is wrong with you? Is this what you call fun now? How far you have gone from your path. You must stop this now!” Gunhilda approaches her brother, cautious of the sword held by his side.

“I see no need to stop. I’ve come to understand much in the past months. Nothing really matters, does it? We live and die and take nothing with us. We are delusional, believing the gods favour us over others. What makes us so special that such powerful beings would even concern themselves with us. And who gives you the authority to tell me what's wrong and right? We are not children anymore, and you are not perfect either, sister. I choose my own path, so I decide what I believe is right and wrong, and I believe these people need me. Am I not saving them from eternal war? Am I not ending their endless suffering? For life is torture, dear sister, that I now know. I have learned much from the Christians, of their God and their devil. I have come to an understanding that will be quite evident to all but the most foolish. This world is the hell they speak of, and their devil, who is much like Loki, tricked us into thinking it’s not. So we suffer and suffer, doing anything we can for a moment of happiness, to have it taken away just as quickly. If we were truly made by gods, they would not have us fight. They would not have us grieve. They would have made us happy, not desperately chasing ephemeral pleasures. I now see that the gods care not for us who dwell in hell. Perhaps they make us fight for their amusement, I do not know. What I do know is that I will save as many people as is in my power to do so. I will save them by freeing them from this world. By sword or fire, I will save them.” Then, turning to his men, he yells, “Continue!”

Some soldiers move into the village, continuing to burn everything they cross.

“Brother, this stops now. I will not stand idly by as you slaughter these innocent people. I see how murky your mind has become. Try to remember all that your family has taught you and how much you mean to us. Please, I'm begging you, don’t make me stop you.”

Harald breaks into horrible laughter, then wiping tears from his eyes, says, “I am touched you care so much, but you are vastly outnumbered. Do what you wish, but you will not stop me.”

With that, Harald slips back through his army into the burning village.

Thinking of the hundreds of people trapped inside, Gunhilda shouts, “ATTACK!”

Gunhilda charges forward with her fellow warriors all around, carving a path towards the village. They are outnumbered but have unwavering loyalty to their leader and faction.

Most of Harald’s men are simply hired mercenaries, with allegiance to only he who pays best. So, when faced by the ferocious elite Ægir infantry, some begin to run as others are cut down.

“Get me to the village!” Gunhilda hollers. Her unit focuses its attack on the center of the enemy's line, slowly creating a path through the hundreds of enemies.

Finally, Gunhilda sees an opening and sprints into the burning village, flames climbing on either side of her as she presses forward. She cuts down every enemy she meets and guides the citizens too terrified to escape on their own to safety. Pushing on, she finds her brother with a torch in one hand and his sword in the other.

“Harald! This ends now!”

Harald hears his sister and tosses his torch onto a hay bale sitting against the wall of a stable, lighting the dry bundle in moments.

“Is that so? We'll see then," he says as he walks towards his sister, bringing his sword to chest level.

“You have become the inferno I must extinguish. You know that I love you with all my heart. That’s why I must be the one to stop you.”

The flames from the hay light the stable, and as Harald approaches, he is silhouetted by the burning building.

Gunhilda raises her sword and approaches her adversary.

They meet in the center of the desolate square, where Harald swings wildly, but Gunhilda meets his blow with a decisive strike of her own.

Swords clash as flames dance all around. Gunhilda's hands are steady as years of training take over.

He is just another enemy.

Harald blocks a strike from Gunhilda, then kicks her in the stomach. She staggers back, winded, but has enough power to bring her sword up to stop Harald as he swings for her head.

With his free hand, Harald pulls a dagger from his belt and sticks it into the left arm of his sister. Since her left hand is dominant, she drops her weapon to the ground.

Laughing, Harald releases the dagger, still deep in Gunhilda’s arm. Clutching his sword with both hands, he brings it above his head, ready to land the final blow.

With all her strength, Gunhilda throws her shoulder into his midsection, tackling him to the ground and causing him to drop his sword. Now mounting him, her weight on his stomach and right arm, she grabs his sword and puts it to his neck.

“You're done, brother. I'll take you home, and father can determine your fate.”

“Ahh, you can’t kill me, can you? What’s wrong, oh great Gunhilda, have you grown soft?” Harald mocks and continues laughing.

Gunhilda does not kill the man beneath her, who caused so much death and destruction, as childhood memories flood her mind. Memories of her and her little brother playing silly games, creating fantastic worlds and battling imaginary armies together in the woods.

Perhaps he is still in there somewhere.

Gunhilda lifts her weight and begins to stand, keeping the sword pressed against his throat.

With his arm now free, Harald grabs the dagger wedged in Gunhilda’s arm, pulls it out and drives it into her abdomen.

Gunhilda's soul cries in despair as Harald’s sword is pulled across his neck.

His arms go limp by his sides, so Gunhilda throws the sword then removes the dagger from her stomach, tossing it away.

As her brother bleeds out, she throws herself on top of him as if sheltering him from the flames and wraps her arms around him. Gunhilda squeezes him tight as she feels the last bit of life drain from his body.

In a sea of smoke and blood that continues to spread, as the surrounding flames climb higher and higher, with her brother's body still pulled tight to her chest, Gunhilda closes her eyes.

Chapter 52

77 YSD

Ødger

Despite the size of his army, Ødger's progress is slow. While he rapidly captures his enemy’s settlements, the enemy just as quickly takes them back once he and his men have left.

What am I doing wrong? If I keep going like this, I will forever be capturing enemy settlements. Like the dog chasing its tail, this approach is futile.

Sitting alone in the tall observatory of a recently captured city, watching the sun disappear beyond the horizon, his mind wanders from strategy.

As he thinks of his parents, his wandering mind carries him through childhood memories, lessons, love, and the moments that made him what he is today. He remembers feasting with his family, fighting with his brother, his mother caring for his wounds, his father telling stories of past glory around a roaring fire.

There was one story his father would tell more than all others. He especially loved telling how his father, Harald, had travelled to these lands to aid his son. Ulf was constantly attacked at the time, so being a loving father, Harald brought ten ships loaded with the fiercest warriors to ever walk the earth. Then, with Ulf to the west and an Orkney army to the east, the three armies pushed south and vanquished their enemies.

Thinking of his wise grandfather and loving father, Ødger realizes his path to victory.

He still has much gold saved, with which he recruits two small armies. He has to look far and wide for those willing to fight, as soldiers are in high demand due to the ever-growing number of conflicts.

Still, Ødger manages to raise the two armies, and just as his grandfather had ordered so many years ago, Ødger deploys a three-part attack, with the small armies moving along the coast and his army between them. With their combined efforts, they will ensure no enemy slips past them.

The plan does not always go smoothly; they have to backtrack occasionally to catch the one or two armies that slip through the cracks. Also, the eastern military is obliterated, so Ødger is forced to take his troops east to quell the resistance. But all in all, with room for improvisation, the plan is eventually successful.

Ødger is not one to wish to continue battling unnecessarily, so alliances are forged with everyone who desires peace. Those who will not stop their attacks are dealt with. In this way, Ødger eventually brings peace to the island, creating harmony between him and his allies, all working together with the single goal of prosperity and peace for their people.

Chapter 53

77 YSD

Gunhilda

Once the Ægir finished with Harald's army, they began to push through the growing fire, doing their best with what they had to save the civilians trapped in the village. Despite their limited resources and extreme fatigue, they did pretty well, rescuing many civilians.

A small group of Ægir soldiers found their leader’s lifeless body, still pressed against her brother. They wished to give her a proper burial and attempted to extricate the body.

As they separated the two corpses, blood began pouring from the wound in Gunhilda’s stomach. Being pressed tightly against her brother's armour was enough pressure on her injury to prevent rapid blood loss. A rescuer held his hand tightly over the wound as Gunhilda was carried from the blaze.

…

Months later, Gunhilda wakes in Inverni, feeling terribly soar as she takes a shallow breath. Visions of flames are still fresh in her mind; she shivers as she recalls all that transpired. Tears form in her eyes at the thought of her brother, and she wishes she had the strength to wipe them away before anyone could see her this way.

Pull yourself together. You are a warrior.

But it is all too much, and her tears only flow quicker.

A woman enters the room and walks to her side. Putting a hand on her shoulder, the woman says, “How good it is to see you up. We thought you might never wake. The gods truly love you, most would have died from what you endured, but here you are. I’ve heard of your wisdom, how you held yourself against your brother to keep yourself from bleeding out. How wise indeed. Your family will be happy to see you. I will send word immediately." With that, she is off, leaving Gunhilda in astonishment.

So that’s how I survived. I wish my cunning saved me, but I only pulled my brother close out of love. How funny this life is, how it never ceases to amaze me.

With that, Gunhilda falls back to sleep.

…

Later, Hilda joyfully wakes her child, shaking her roughly from her slumber.

Gunhilda opens her eyes to see her mother's smiling face and shouts, “Will you stop your relentless shaking, have you no mind for the pain I’m in!”

Hilda hugs her daughter, and says, “Stop your whining. How I feared you were lost. How I prayed for you to wake. I love you so much, child. No words can express how I feel today!”

Gunhilda is speechless, having never heard such nice words from her fierce mother.

Gunhilda can only muster a whisper, “I love you too.”

After some time, Hilda releases her daughter and says, “You have another visitor.” Hilda turns her head to the door, Gunhilda follows her gaze, and the two stare at a small child, barely a year old, already on her feet, staring at her mother and grandmother.

“Is that…”

“Yes, this is Matilda," Hilda says as she waves Matilda over, "come say hello to your mother, dear.”

Matilda slowly approaches the bed, then Hilda lifts her up and seats her next to her mother.

Strength finds its way into Gunhilda’s battered body, and she manages to bring an arm around her child.

Without words, she pulls Matilda in and kisses her forehead.

Chapter 54

77 YSD

Troels

A man of more than 60 years now, Troels still yearns for battle, and the enemy does not disappoint. Endless waves of enemies try their hand at ending the warrior king, and all fail.

On a warm summer night, Troels receives word that the enemy king approaches, with an army twice as large as any he has ever faced.

How long have I trained? How much preparation has gone into making me the man I am today. The gods gift me with this battle. The gods gift me with my heart’s desire.

…

The enemy catapults hurl projectiles against the walls of Troels’ newly acquired city, causing the archers along the edge to fall to their death. Though an opening is created in the wall, and the enemy begins to swarm through, Troels is prepared. Having had his warriors form two lines along the breach, the enemy charges in, only to be met by Ægir troops on both sides. Some begin to run as more and more pour in.

Their numbers are too great, and eventually, Troels orders his men to pull back.

Again using the city to his advantage, Troels uses the streets to funnel enemies into traps, using the intersections as choke points. In this way, more soldiers are routed until the attacking force is no more.

Troels surveys what is left of his army. They did well indeed, losing far fewer men than Troels imagined possible.

Crashing to his left startles Troels as the catapults continue their assault on his city. Troels heads to the wall and sees a massive enemy force standing by the twelve catapults. The Ægir army killed so many, yet still an army equal in number to their own waits for them.

Seeing how tired his warriors look, Troels gathers them around him.

“How well you have all done, not only today but through week after week of enemy onslaught. I am not one who has in his mind beautiful words with which to comfort or encourage you, for that is not in my nature. I was blessed with one gift, I am a fighter, and as I look around, I see that you were all blessed with the same gift. How the gods smile on us, can you not hear them cheering? Today, we have already fought a war, but I ask you, my Ægir countrymen, would you not like to fight another? Let us bring death to that puny king and his frail army. Let us end this war once and for all. He brings so many men because he is terrified; he fears what we’ve done and what we can still do. So I ask you this, who still has some fight left in them?”

A mighty roar erupts from the city, sending horror through the enemy.

With that, every able-bodied Ægir warrior charges, undeterred by the catapults which continue their barrage, crashing against the enemy with tremendous force.

Swinging his sword skillfully with a smile on his face, the warrior king is himself once more as he leads his fellow fighters through another glorious battle.