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imported>Darman36 →Dialogue: Added more lines (youtu.be/3LodAOW6ySQ) from Guthrum |
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| name = Kingdom's End | | name = Kingdom's End | ||
| image = | | image = | ||
| description = ''Help [[Guthrum]] in Hamtunscire.'' | | description = ''Help [[Guthrum]] in [[Hampshire|Hamtunscire]].'' | ||
| appearance = ''[[Assassin's Creed: Valhalla]]'' | | appearance = ''[[Assassin's Creed: Valhalla]]'' | ||
| type = Main {{c|The Prophecies of the King}} | | type = Main {{c|The Prophecies of the King}} | ||
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| date = 878 | | date = 878 | ||
}} | }} | ||
'''Kingdom's End''' was a virtual representation of one of [[Eivor Varinsdottir]]'s [[Genetic memory|genetic memories]], relived by [[Basim Ibn Ishaq]] through the [[Animus|Portable Animus HR-8.5]]. | '''Kingdom's End''' was a virtual representation of one of [[Eivor Varinsdottir]]'s [[Genetic memory|genetic memories]], relived by [[Basim Ibn Ishaq]] in 2020 through the [[Animus|Portable Animus HR-8.5]]. | ||
==Description== | ==Description== | ||
Eivor decided to help [[Guthrum]] overthrow and defeat the Saxons in [[Wessex]]. | Eivor decided to help [[Guthrum]] overthrow and defeat the [[Anglo-Saxons|Saxons]] in [[Wessex]]. | ||
==Dialogue== | ==Dialogue== | ||
| Line 26: | Line 26: | ||
*'''Randvi:''' ''And very heavily guarded. King [[Alfred the Great|Aelfred]] is preparing for war. You will meet tremendous resistance.'' | *'''Randvi:''' ''And very heavily guarded. King [[Alfred the Great|Aelfred]] is preparing for war. You will meet tremendous resistance.'' | ||
*'''Eivor:''' ''As will Aelfred. Is Guthrum'' [[Jarl]] ''there with his army?'' | *'''Eivor:''' ''As will Aelfred. Is Guthrum'' [[Jarl]] ''there with his army?'' | ||
*'''Randvi:''' ''He is. He and [[Ubba Ragnarsson|Ubba]] have gathered a sizable force and intend on launching an attack on Aelfred soon If we support their assault, [[England]] will fall to us. A [[Christianity|pagan]] land where a [[Norse mythology|multitude]] of gods may freely roam.'' | *'''Randvi:''' ''He is. He and [[Ubba Ragnarsson|Ubba]] have [[Afon Blockade|gathered]] a sizable force and intend on launching an attack on Aelfred soon. If we support their assault, [[England]] will fall to us. A [[Christianity|pagan]] land where a [[Norse mythology|multitude]] of gods may freely roam.'' | ||
Eivor pledged to Hamtunscire. | Eivor pledged to Hamtunscire. | ||
*'''Eivor:''' ''I will go to Hamtunscire and speak with Guthrum. Send word to our allies to gather on the [[River Thames|Thames]], just outside the shire.'' | *'''Eivor:''' ''I will go to Hamtunscire and speak with Guthrum. Send word to our allies to gather on the [[River Thames|Thames]], just outside the shire.'' | ||
*'''Randvi:''' ''I will. May the | *'''Randvi:''' ''I will. May the gods share in this, our final victory.'' | ||
Eivor left, but | Eivor left, but was stopped immediately outside by [[Valka]]. | ||
*'''Eivor:''' ''What is it?'' | *'''Eivor:''' ''What is it?'' | ||
*'''Valka:''' ''Eivor, you must not go. You must not! The signs, the portents, they shout and wail! Your leaving will be our doom!'' | *'''Valka:''' ''Eivor, you must not go. You must not! The signs, the portents, they shout and wail! Your leaving will be our doom!'' | ||
*'''Eivor:''' ''Speak clearly, Valka. What have you seen?'' | *'''Eivor:''' ''Speak clearly, Valka. What have you seen?'' | ||
*'''Valka:''' ''I have thrown the bones, I have stirred the offals of beasts, and in the rising steam, I saw the end of all. Though this battle you may win, this war you will not. Your foe will be your master, your hope will be your grief. This is fate. Our fate.'' | *'''Valka:''' ''I have thrown the bones, I have stirred the offals of beasts, and in the rising steam, I saw the end of all. Though this [[Battle of Chippenham|battle]] you may win, this war you will not. Your foe will be your master, your hope will be your grief. This is fate. Our fate.'' | ||
*'''Eivor:''' ''I thank you for this, Valka. But the [[Nornir|yarns of fate]] are too frayed for me to follow now. I owe this fight to my friends and allies, and I will see it through.'' | *'''Eivor:''' ''I thank you for this, Valka. But the [[Nornir|yarns of fate]] are too frayed for me to follow now. I owe this fight to my friends and allies, and I will see it through.'' | ||
*''' | *'''Valka:''' ''Go then. With great care. But know that the home you leave will not be the home to which you return.'' | ||
Eivor left and rode to [[Wareham|Werham]]. Nearing the area, Eivor became worried. | Eivor left and rode to [[Wareham|Werham]]. Nearing the area, Eivor became worried. | ||
*'''Eivor:''' ''I am nearing Werham, deep into Aelfred's heartland. I hope Guthrum has a sound plan.'' | *'''Eivor:''' ''I am nearing Werham, deep into Aelfred's heartland. I hope Guthrum has a sound plan.'' | ||
At the door, Eivor took in the sight of [[ | At the door, Eivor took in the sight of [[Norse people|Norse]] and Saxon flags together. | ||
*'''Eivor:''' ''Strange to see Norse and Saxon banners flying side-to-side. I should find Guthrum.'' | *'''Eivor:''' ''Strange to see Norse and Saxon banners flying side-to-side. I should find Guthrum.'' | ||
Eivor entered and found [[Soma]] talking another warrior. | Eivor entered and found [[Soma]] talking another warrior. | ||
| Line 56: | Line 56: | ||
*'''Eivor:''' ''Nor is Aelfred. If he has come, it is for his own advantage.'' | *'''Eivor:''' ''Nor is Aelfred. If he has come, it is for his own advantage.'' | ||
*'''Soma:''' ''Then give us counsel. Stand by Guthrum, show our strength. The king of hayseeds will soon be humbled, trust me.'' | *'''Soma:''' ''Then give us counsel. Stand by Guthrum, show our strength. The king of hayseeds will soon be humbled, trust me.'' | ||
Eivor walked in to the church, where Guthrum was arguing with Alfred and [[Reeve]] [[Goodwin]]. | |||
Eivor walked in to the church, where Guthrum was arguing with Alfred and Reeve [[Goodwin]]. | |||
*'''Guthrum:''' ''We took this town as if it were a straw-hall. Do not challenge me, Elf-King.'' | *'''Guthrum:''' ''We took this town as if it were a straw-hall. Do not challenge me, Elf-King.'' | ||
*'''King Aelfred:''' ''Your show of swagger and strength has my attention, Guthrum. But we agreed on terms. What more do you want?'' | *'''King Aelfred:''' ''Your show of swagger and strength has my attention, Guthrum. But we agreed on terms. What more do you want?'' | ||
*'''Guthrum:''' ''The crown of [[Wessex]].'' | *'''Guthrum:''' ''The crown of [[Wessex]].'' | ||
*'''Goodwin:''' ''Wessex has a king. And that king has the backing of the Almighty. Yours is a fever-dream, Dane.'' | *'''Goodwin:''' ''Wessex has a king. And that king has the backing of the Almighty. Yours is a fever-dream, [[Vikings|Dane]].'' | ||
<tabber> | <tabber> | ||
|-|The throne can be taken= | |-|The throne can be taken= | ||
*'''Eivor:''' ''We need not ask for it, Goodwin. We will take it. As we have taken [[Heptarchy|all]] the [[Kingdom of England|kingdoms]] of England.'' | *'''Eivor:''' ''We need not ask for it, Goodwin. We will take it. As we have taken [[Heptarchy|all]] the [[Kingdom of England|kingdoms]] of England.'' | ||
|-|Guthrum will never bow= | |-|Guthrum will never bow= | ||
*'''Eivor:''' ''You have learned nothing since the | *'''Eivor:''' ''You have learned nothing since the Danes [[Viking expansion|came here]]. Guthrum will not bend his knee, oath-breaker. Just as I would not.'' | ||
|-|And what is this?= | |-|And what is this?= | ||
*'''Eivor:''' ''Guthrum does not negotiate with oath-breakers. Men whose words are only shadows of their thoughts.'' | *'''Eivor:''' ''Guthrum does not negotiate with oath-breakers. Men whose words are only shadows of their thoughts.'' | ||
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*'''Eivor:''' ''Are we done with this pissing contest? If Guthrum has given you his word, then he will honor it. We will leave this town.'' | *'''Eivor:''' ''Are we done with this pissing contest? If Guthrum has given you his word, then he will honor it. We will leave this town.'' | ||
[[File:ACV Guthrum Eivor Negotiations.jpg|thumb|250px|Eivor and Guthrum negotiate with King Aelfred and Goodwin]] | [[File:ACV Guthrum Eivor Negotiations.jpg|thumb|250px|Eivor and Guthrum negotiate with King Aelfred and Goodwin]] | ||
Goodwin | Alfred looked at Goodwin and slightly nodded his head. As Goodwin left, a [[Soldier|guard]] quietly informed Alfred of some news while Eivor and Guthrum watched and shared a looked of suspicion. Goodwin returned, holding a large [[Treasure chest|chest]] in his arms, and set it down. | ||
*'''Goodwin:''' ''You have one day. Do not test the king's patience further, or our men will return to Werham with force.'' | *'''Goodwin:''' ''You have one day. Do not test the king's patience further, or our men will return to Werham with force.'' | ||
Guthrum nodded. | Guthrum nodded. | ||
*'''King Aelfred:''' ''And if you doubt my convictions, know that the [[River Avon|Afon River]] near [[Ufton|Uffentune]] runs red with the blood of your countrymen.'' | *'''King Aelfred:''' ''And if you doubt my convictions, know that the [[River Avon|Afon River]] near [[Ufton|Uffentune]] runs red with the blood of your countrymen.'' | ||
As the Saxons left, Alfred put a hand to his chin and gave a smug parting remark. | |||
As the Saxons | *'''King Aelfred:''' ''Their commander... what did his men cry as he fell? Ulla? Ubba? Yes, that was it.'' | ||
*'''King Aelfred:''' ''Their commander ... what did his men cry as he fell? Ulla? Ubba? Yes, that was it. Remember, you have taken my [[silver]]. In return, I expect your honor. I will await news of your retreat in [[Chippenham|Cippanhamm]].'' | Eivor and Guthrum stepped toward, startled at the mention of the [[Sons of Ragnar|Ragnarson]]'s name, but stopped short and looked at each other in concern. Alfred turned back around. | ||
*'''King Aelfred:''' ''Remember, you have taken my [[silver]]. In return, I expect your honor. I will await news of your retreat in [[Chippenham|Cippanhamm]].'' | |||
Alfred left as Soma ran inside. | Alfred left as Soma ran inside. | ||
*'''Guthrum:''' ''Ubba dead! It cannot be! Gods, I will tear that Saxon's skin from his bones if this is true!'' | *'''Guthrum:''' ''Ubba dead! It cannot be! Gods, I will tear that Saxon's skin from his bones if this is true!'' | ||
| Line 90: | Line 89: | ||
*'''Soma:''' ''When news of this spreads through the camp, no Saxon will survive the day.'' | *'''Soma:''' ''When news of this spreads through the camp, no Saxon will survive the day.'' | ||
*'''Eivor:''' ''You swore upon the cross?'' | *'''Eivor:''' ''You swore upon the cross?'' | ||
Guthrum waved his hand dismissively. | |||
*'''Guthrum:''' ''O, I have no intention of cowing to that milk-sack. Now, more than ever, I will take his throne. And his head.'' | *'''Guthrum:''' ''O, I have no intention of cowing to that milk-sack. Now, more than ever, I will take his throne. And his head.'' | ||
*'''Eivor:''' ''In [[Winchester|Wincestre]], Aelfred used me as a tool and cast me aside. So let the betrayer be betrayed. We will burn this village to the ground. After that, we take care of Aelfred.'' | *'''Eivor:''' ''In [[Winchester|Wincestre]], Aelfred used me as a tool and cast me aside. So let the betrayer be betrayed. We will burn this village to the ground. After that, we take care of Aelfred.'' | ||
| Line 95: | Line 95: | ||
*'''Eivor:''' ''Burn Werham to the ground, make it a Saxon pyre! Let vengeance steer your [[sword]]s!'' | *'''Eivor:''' ''Burn Werham to the ground, make it a Saxon pyre! Let vengeance steer your [[sword]]s!'' | ||
*'''Anglo-Saxon Soldier 1:''' ''You oath-breakers! We had a truce.'' | *'''Anglo-Saxon Soldier 1:''' ''You oath-breakers! We had a truce.'' | ||
*'''Norse Warrior 1:''' ''And now it is ended. And you'll feel my axe in your gut, | *'''Norse Warrior 1:''' ''And now it is ended. And you'll feel my [[Battleaxe|axe]] in your gut, [[pig]]let.'' | ||
*'''Eivor:''' ''Fire and flame! Burn it all!'' | *'''Eivor:''' ''Fire and flame! Burn it all!'' | ||
*'''Guthrum:''' ''Destroy everything! Their roofs to splinters, their bones to dust.'' | |||
*'''Norse Warrior 2:''' ''For Ubba! Every great Norse you've sent to [[Valhalla (afterlife)|Valhalla]], I'll send ten to your Hell.'' | *'''Norse Warrior 2:''' ''For Ubba! Every great Norse you've sent to [[Valhalla (afterlife)|Valhalla]], I'll send ten to your Hell.'' | ||
*'''Eivor:''' ''Leave nothing standing!'' | *'''Eivor:''' ''Leave nothing standing!'' | ||
| Line 106: | Line 107: | ||
*'''Norse Warrior 5:''' ''My blood needs fire, after cooling in this sodden field.'' | *'''Norse Warrior 5:''' ''My blood needs fire, after cooling in this sodden field.'' | ||
*'''Anglo-Saxon Soldier 5:''' ''You'll burn in Hell, traitorous scum!'' | *'''Anglo-Saxon Soldier 5:''' ''You'll burn in Hell, traitorous scum!'' | ||
*'''Norse Warrior 6:''' ''I will feast on your marrow in Valhalla!'' | *'''Norse Warrior 6:''' ''I will feast on your marrow in [[Valhalla (afterlife)|Valhalla]]!'' | ||
After burning every hut down, Eivor went to regroup with Soma. | After burning every hut down, Eivor went to regroup with Soma. | ||
*'''Eivor:''' ''Their prayers go unanswered this day. We should find Soma.'' | *'''Eivor:''' ''Their prayers go unanswered this day. We should find Soma.'' | ||
| Line 134: | Line 135: | ||
*'''Guthrum:''' ''Aelfred spoke of Cippanhamm, a squat hovel of [[sheep]] and peasants.'' | *'''Guthrum:''' ''Aelfred spoke of Cippanhamm, a squat hovel of [[sheep]] and peasants.'' | ||
*'''Eivor:''' ''So, why does he go there and not to [[Winchester|Wincestre]]? Your scouts must know, they are the best in England.'' | *'''Eivor:''' ''So, why does he go there and not to [[Winchester|Wincestre]]? Your scouts must know, they are the best in England.'' | ||
*'''Guthrum:''' ''A holiday feast, their Saxon Christ mass. Aelfred will warm heels by the fire while Ubba lies cold in an English field.'' | *'''Guthrum:''' ''A holiday feast, their Saxon Christ mass. Aelfred will warm his heels by the fire while Ubba lies cold in an English field.'' | ||
*'''Eivor:''' ''I have called upon my allies to join us in this fight. But I must know where to send them. Is Cippanhamm our final prize?'' | *'''Eivor:''' ''I have called upon my allies to join us in this fight. But I must know where to send them. Is Cippanhamm our final prize?'' | ||
*'''Guthrum:''' ''It is. But uh I will need my men for the coming fight as well. The hostages Aelfred took. If there is a chance to save them...'' | *'''Guthrum:''' ''It is. But uh I will need my men for the coming fight as well. The hostages Aelfred took. If there is a chance to save them...'' | ||
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*'''Guthrum:''' ''I called you [[Raven]]-Feeder once. At [[Portcestre]], you were hotheaded as [[Thor]]. You have become a true leader, Eivor.'' | *'''Guthrum:''' ''I called you [[Raven]]-Feeder once. At [[Portcestre]], you were hotheaded as [[Thor]]. You have become a true leader, Eivor.'' | ||
Eivor and Guthrum leave to save his fellow warriors. | Eivor and Guthrum leave to save his fellow warriors. | ||
*'''Eivor:''' ''There is much to come, Guthrum, before we can rest with mead in our hands and songs in our ears.'' | *'''Eivor:''' ''There is much to come, Guthrum, before we can rest with [[mead]] in our hands and songs in our ears.'' | ||
Eivor and Guthrum mounted their horses, then rode to the blockade. | |||
*'''Guthrum:''' ''I will crush Aelfred's skull with my bare hands if Ubba is dead.'' | *'''Guthrum:''' ''I will crush Aelfred's skull with my bare hands if Ubba is dead.'' | ||
*'''Eivor:''' ''We cannot dwell on this, even if it is true. If you want the throne, only strategy will deliver it.'' | *'''Eivor:''' ''We cannot dwell on this, even if it is true. If you want the throne, only strategy will deliver it.'' | ||
*'''Guthrum:''' ''Or bloody wrath will steal it. I will follow this Aelfred, hound his heels. Revenge burns within me.'' | *'''Guthrum:''' ''Or bloody wrath will steal it. I will follow this Aelfred, hound his heels. Revenge burns within me.'' | ||
*'''Eivor:''' ''A wise man once told me we | *'''Eivor:''' ''A wise man once told me we do not dash ourselves against hopeless causes. We arrive unexpected, strike swift.'' | ||
*'''Guthrum:''' ''You turn my words against me now, [[Wolf]]-Kissed?'' | *'''Guthrum:''' ''You turn my words against me now, [[Wolf]]-Kissed?'' | ||
*'''Eivor:''' ''I took them to heart in my darkest times, my friend.'' | *'''Eivor:''' ''I took them to heart in my darkest times, my friend.'' | ||
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*'''Eivor:''' ''My brother's story is a long one, and for another time. Ridding the land of a strong ruler will make Wessex harder to tame.'' | *'''Eivor:''' ''My brother's story is a long one, and for another time. Ridding the land of a strong ruler will make Wessex harder to tame.'' | ||
*'''Guthrum:''' ''You almost sound like you respect him, Eivor.'' | *'''Guthrum:''' ''You almost sound like you respect him, Eivor.'' | ||
*'''Eivor:''' ''I have come to understand the trials of leadership, Guthrum. It is hard not to when you cradle something as fragile as life | *'''Eivor:''' ''I have come to understand the trials of leadership, Guthrum. It is hard not to when you cradle something as fragile as life within your hands.'' | ||
Eivor and Guthrum neared the blockade. | Eivor and Guthrum neared the blockade. | ||
*'''Guthrum:''' ''There, this is the blockade. The hostages must be in these buildings. What is your plan?'' | *'''Guthrum:''' ''There, this is the blockade. The hostages must be in these buildings. What is your plan?'' | ||
*'''Eivor:''' ''We can tread quietly so as not to alert the guards. But I can raid this place in moments with my crew.'' | *'''Eivor:''' ''We can tread quietly so as not to alert the guards. But I can raid this place in moments with my crew.'' | ||
*'''Guthrum:''' ''I will follow your lead.'' | *'''Guthrum:''' ''I will follow your lead. I had to hand them over. Aelfred demanded it.'' | ||
Eivor and Guthrum | *'''Eivor:''' ''We will save them, Guthrum. Stay calm. | ||
The two slowly infiltrated the place. | |||
*'''Eivor:''' ''Can you see your men?'' | |||
*'''Guthrum:''' ''No, but we must keep looking. Do you think he kept his word? He swore he would not kill them.'' | |||
*'''Eivor:''' ''I cannot say for certain, just hope we find them soon.'' | |||
Having successfully snuck into the camp, Eivor and Guthrum broke cover for a surprise attack. | |||
*'''Eivor:''' ''Enough skulking!'' | |||
*'''Guthrum:''' ''These Saxons do not deserve compassion. I will wash my blade in their blood.'' | |||
Eivor and Guthrum finally found and rescued some of their fellow Danes in cells. | |||
*'''Norse Warrior 7:''' ''I told you Guthrum wouldn't leave us here to rot.'' | *'''Norse Warrior 7:''' ''I told you Guthrum wouldn't leave us here to rot.'' | ||
*'''Eivor:''' ''Guthrum! Some of your men!'' | *'''Eivor:''' ''Guthrum! Some of your men!'' | ||
| Line 176: | Line 186: | ||
Eivor spoke with Guthrum. | Eivor spoke with Guthrum. | ||
*'''Eivor:''' ''You should join your people at the camp. Even a surprise takes preparation.'' | *'''Eivor:''' ''You should join your people at the camp. Even a surprise takes preparation.'' | ||
*'''Guthrum:''' ''Your bravery, your leadership, Eivor ... you wear it well. You have grown much since last we spoke.'' | *'''Guthrum:''' ''Your bravery, your leadership, Eivor... you wear it well. You have grown much since last we spoke.'' | ||
*'''Eivor:''' ''You judged me fairly, Guthrum, harsh though your words were. But I do not make the same mistake twice.'' | *'''Eivor:''' ''You judged me fairly, Guthrum, harsh though your words were. But I do not make the same mistake twice.'' | ||
*'''Guthrum:''' ''How is your brother, Sigurd?'' | *'''Guthrum:''' ''How is your brother, Sigurd?'' | ||
Revision as of 08:55, 2 February 2022
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Kingdom's End was a virtual representation of one of Eivor Varinsdottir's genetic memories, relived by Basim Ibn Ishaq in 2020 through the Portable Animus HR-8.5.
Description
Eivor decided to help Guthrum overthrow and defeat the Saxons in Wessex.
Dialogue
Eivor spoke to Randvi about pledging to Hamtunscire.
- Eivor: Hamtunscire, the last Saxon stronghold.
- Randvi: And very heavily guarded. King Aelfred is preparing for war. You will meet tremendous resistance.
- Eivor: As will Aelfred. Is Guthrum Jarl there with his army?
- Randvi: He is. He and Ubba have gathered a sizable force and intend on launching an attack on Aelfred soon. If we support their assault, England will fall to us. A pagan land where a multitude of gods may freely roam.
Eivor pledged to Hamtunscire.
- Eivor: I will go to Hamtunscire and speak with Guthrum. Send word to our allies to gather on the Thames, just outside the shire.
- Randvi: I will. May the gods share in this, our final victory.
Eivor left, but was stopped immediately outside by Valka.
- Eivor: What is it?
- Valka: Eivor, you must not go. You must not! The signs, the portents, they shout and wail! Your leaving will be our doom!
- Eivor: Speak clearly, Valka. What have you seen?
- Valka: I have thrown the bones, I have stirred the offals of beasts, and in the rising steam, I saw the end of all. Though this battle you may win, this war you will not. Your foe will be your master, your hope will be your grief. This is fate. Our fate.
- Eivor: I thank you for this, Valka. But the yarns of fate are too frayed for me to follow now. I owe this fight to my friends and allies, and I will see it through.
- Valka: Go then. With great care. But know that the home you leave will not be the home to which you return.
Eivor left and rode to Werham. Nearing the area, Eivor became worried.
- Eivor: I am nearing Werham, deep into Aelfred's heartland. I hope Guthrum has a sound plan.
At the door, Eivor took in the sight of Norse and Saxon flags together.
- Eivor: Strange to see Norse and Saxon banners flying side-to-side. I should find Guthrum.
Eivor entered and found Soma talking another warrior.
- Soma: Eivor. You came at Guthrum's call. It is good to see you.
- Eivor: And you, Soma. There is an uneasy peace here, both armies with their hackles up. Was blood spilt?
- Soma: No. We took Werham without resistance. These Saxons accompany their lord, as we stand beside Guthrum.
- Eivor: So this fort is not the sum of his ambitions. Guthrum's plan is to bring the Saxons to the table?
- Soma: If he can win the peace without a fight, he will do so.
- Eivor: And how likely is that?
- Soma: Just now, they sit on their thumbs in the church. Talking in circles. Come, I will take you to him.
As they walked, Soma and Eivor talked about the negotiations.
- Eivor: Who is Guthrum meeting here? Is it Aelfred?
- Soma: That's right. The King of the West Saxons agreed to negotiate. Seems we have him on the back foot.
- Eivor: Guthrum should be careful. Aelfred speaks with Loki's tongue.
- Soma: Guthrum is not a babe-at-teat, Eivor.
- Eivor: Nor is Aelfred. If he has come, it is for his own advantage.
- Soma: Then give us counsel. Stand by Guthrum, show our strength. The king of hayseeds will soon be humbled, trust me.
Eivor walked in to the church, where Guthrum was arguing with Alfred and Reeve Goodwin.
- Guthrum: We took this town as if it were a straw-hall. Do not challenge me, Elf-King.
- King Aelfred: Your show of swagger and strength has my attention, Guthrum. But we agreed on terms. What more do you want?
- Guthrum: The crown of Wessex.
- Goodwin: Wessex has a king. And that king has the backing of the Almighty. Yours is a fever-dream, Dane.
- Eivor: You have learned nothing since the Danes came here. Guthrum will not bend his knee, oath-breaker. Just as I would not.
- Eivor: Guthrum does not negotiate with oath-breakers. Men whose words are only shadows of their thoughts.
- Goodwin: Ah, Eivor. Our blunted tool returns, lord.
- King Aelfred: I have given you all I care to, a Danegeld to leave Werham. You swore an oath upon the cross and that pagan hammer.
- Goodwin: And when you scurry back to whatever shit-soaked hovel you crawled from, we will release your men.
- Guthrum: Speak again, handmaid, and I will feed your tongue to Eivor's raven.
- Goodwin: A fair trade. We already have your cock.
- Eivor: Are we done with this pissing contest? If Guthrum has given you his word, then he will honor it. We will leave this town.
Alfred looked at Goodwin and slightly nodded his head. As Goodwin left, a guard quietly informed Alfred of some news while Eivor and Guthrum watched and shared a looked of suspicion. Goodwin returned, holding a large chest in his arms, and set it down.
- Goodwin: You have one day. Do not test the king's patience further, or our men will return to Werham with force.
Guthrum nodded.
- King Aelfred: And if you doubt my convictions, know that the Afon River near Uffentune runs red with the blood of your countrymen.
As the Saxons left, Alfred put a hand to his chin and gave a smug parting remark.
- King Aelfred: Their commander... what did his men cry as he fell? Ulla? Ubba? Yes, that was it.
Eivor and Guthrum stepped toward, startled at the mention of the Ragnarson's name, but stopped short and looked at each other in concern. Alfred turned back around.
- King Aelfred: Remember, you have taken my silver. In return, I expect your honor. I will await news of your retreat in Cippanhamm.
Alfred left as Soma ran inside.
- Guthrum: Ubba dead! It cannot be! Gods, I will tear that Saxon's skin from his bones if this is true!
- Eivor: Aelfred hisses with a snake tongue, but he gains nothing from this lie.
- Soma: When news of this spreads through the camp, no Saxon will survive the day.
- Eivor: You swore upon the cross?
Guthrum waved his hand dismissively.
- Guthrum: O, I have no intention of cowing to that milk-sack. Now, more than ever, I will take his throne. And his head.
- Eivor: In Wincestre, Aelfred used me as a tool and cast me aside. So let the betrayer be betrayed. We will burn this village to the ground. After that, we take care of Aelfred.
Werham became a battleground as Eivor announced to burn the village down.
- Eivor: Burn Werham to the ground, make it a Saxon pyre! Let vengeance steer your swords!
- Anglo-Saxon Soldier 1: You oath-breakers! We had a truce.
- Norse Warrior 1: And now it is ended. And you'll feel my axe in your gut, piglet.
- Eivor: Fire and flame! Burn it all!
- Guthrum: Destroy everything! Their roofs to splinters, their bones to dust.
- Norse Warrior 2: For Ubba! Every great Norse you've sent to Valhalla, I'll send ten to your Hell.
- Eivor: Leave nothing standing!
- Anglo-Saxon Soldier 2: You won't burn Werham, scum!
- Anglo-Saxon Soldier 3: Lord Jesus Christ, help me stand against the filthy heathen threat.
- Norse Warrior 3: Your God-son has forsaken you, Saxon.
- Anglo-Saxon Soldier 4: You have no honor, Dane! You will not steal our land.
- Norse Warrior 4: It is too late, little man. Our gods have spoken with war and wit.
- Norse Warrior 5: My blood needs fire, after cooling in this sodden field.
- Anglo-Saxon Soldier 5: You'll burn in Hell, traitorous scum!
- Norse Warrior 6: I will feast on your marrow in Valhalla!
After burning every hut down, Eivor went to regroup with Soma.
- Eivor: Their prayers go unanswered this day. We should find Soma.
Finding Soma near an entrance, Eivor heard Soma commanding her men.
- Soma: Stand firm all. Do not lose your nerve.
- Eivor: This place is routed, Soma!
- Eivor: Good work, we leave now. There are forest ruins just east of here, along the road. Come on, men. Move!
With Soma, Eivor escorted her fellow Danes out of the burning village. Along their escort, a Saxon soldier group came to meet them on the road in Wishtman's Wood.
- Eivor: Saxons ahead!
During her attack, Eivor let out an insult.
- Eivor: Where is your king now, Saxons? Cowering like a mouse.
- Guthrum: For Ubba! His blood soaks your soil.
More Saxon reinforcements came.
- Eivor: More Saxons. Draw your weapons.
- Guthrum: Cut down the stragglers.
- Soma: The ruins are close, keep moving!
The Danes defeated the Saxon soldiers on the road.
- Eivor: Every soul we meet, sent to their god. Let us keep moving!
Eivor and her allies arrived at the ruins in the woods.
- Guthrum: We can rest here a moment. Now, tell me what you know of that breaker of rings. Weak and wretched troll.
- Eivor: Aelfred is a wily fox. He appears frail but draws upon an inner strength. He will not be easy to oust.
- Guthrum: Fury will fuel my army and my claim.
- Eivor: It will not be enough. You must find a weakness.
- Guthrum: Yes, that is why I called you here. Do you balk at the opportunity to bury the Saxon king?
- Eivor: I must first hear a plan to balk at.
- Guthrum: Aelfred spoke of Cippanhamm, a squat hovel of sheep and peasants.
- Eivor: So, why does he go there and not to Wincestre? Your scouts must know, they are the best in England.
- Guthrum: A holiday feast, their Saxon Christ mass. Aelfred will warm his heels by the fire while Ubba lies cold in an English field.
- Eivor: I have called upon my allies to join us in this fight. But I must know where to send them. Is Cippanhamm our final prize?
- Guthrum: It is. But uh I will need my men for the coming fight as well. The hostages Aelfred took. If there is a chance to save them...
- Eivor: We will not lose more friends today. Where are they held?
- Guthrum: A place further ahead through this forest. They call it Hamtun Blockade.
Eivor turned to Soma.
- Eivor: Soma, ride north to the Thames and lead my allies south. They should be gathered by now.
- Soma: I will.
- Guthrum: Gather on the river passing Cippenhamm. The rest of you, set up camp there.
Soma left as Guthrum turned back to Eivor.
- Guthrum: I called you Raven-Feeder once. At Portcestre, you were hotheaded as Thor. You have become a true leader, Eivor.
Eivor and Guthrum leave to save his fellow warriors.
- Eivor: There is much to come, Guthrum, before we can rest with mead in our hands and songs in our ears.
Eivor and Guthrum mounted their horses, then rode to the blockade.
- Guthrum: I will crush Aelfred's skull with my bare hands if Ubba is dead.
- Eivor: We cannot dwell on this, even if it is true. If you want the throne, only strategy will deliver it.
- Guthrum: Or bloody wrath will steal it. I will follow this Aelfred, hound his heels. Revenge burns within me.
- Eivor: A wise man once told me we do not dash ourselves against hopeless causes. We arrive unexpected, strike swift.
- Guthrum: You turn my words against me now, Wolf-Kissed?
- Eivor: I took them to heart in my darkest times, my friend.
- Guthrum: And Sigurd? He is back with you?
- Eivor: My brother's story is a long one, and for another time. Ridding the land of a strong ruler will make Wessex harder to tame.
- Guthrum: You almost sound like you respect him, Eivor.
- Eivor: I have come to understand the trials of leadership, Guthrum. It is hard not to when you cradle something as fragile as life within your hands.
Eivor and Guthrum neared the blockade.
- Guthrum: There, this is the blockade. The hostages must be in these buildings. What is your plan?
- Eivor: We can tread quietly so as not to alert the guards. But I can raid this place in moments with my crew.
- Guthrum: I will follow your lead. I had to hand them over. Aelfred demanded it.
- Eivor: We will save them, Guthrum. Stay calm.
The two slowly infiltrated the place.
- Eivor: Can you see your men?
- Guthrum: No, but we must keep looking. Do you think he kept his word? He swore he would not kill them.
- Eivor: I cannot say for certain, just hope we find them soon.
Having successfully snuck into the camp, Eivor and Guthrum broke cover for a surprise attack.
- Eivor: Enough skulking!
- Guthrum: These Saxons do not deserve compassion. I will wash my blade in their blood.
Eivor and Guthrum finally found and rescued some of their fellow Danes in cells.
- Norse Warrior 7: I told you Guthrum wouldn't leave us here to rot.
- Eivor: Guthrum! Some of your men!
- Norse Warrior 8: We will not be feasting in Odin's hall tonight, boys!
They later found the rest in the bottom of a building.
- Eivor: Are you Guthrum's men?
- Norse Warrior 9: Aye! Free us and we will fight by your side.
- Norse Warrior 10: Every Saxon who spat at me will die.
- Eivor: You will have your chance, but don't be foolhardy. Let your steps take you far from here to our camp near Cippanhamm.
- Guthrum: Thank you, Eivor. You did a great deed here. Their families will raise a cup to you.
- Eivor: I need no thanks, Guthrum. Let us speak more when we are safely away.
Eivor and Guthrum ran to safety after releasing the prisoners.
- Eivor: We are safe here. Let us speak, Guthrum.
Eivor spoke with Guthrum.
- Eivor: You should join your people at the camp. Even a surprise takes preparation.
- Guthrum: Your bravery, your leadership, Eivor... you wear it well. You have grown much since last we spoke.
- Eivor: You judged me fairly, Guthrum, harsh though your words were. But I do not make the same mistake twice.
- Guthrum: How is your brother, Sigurd?
- Eivor: He lives, a changed man. But he is free of Fulke's torment. That at least was a deed well done.
- Guthrum: Will this all be worth it in the end? Everything we have done, everything we have sacrificed to win this land? Sometimes I dream of soot-black furrowed earth. And blood seeping from seedlings, poisoning our future.
- Eivor: We must believe our way of life will survive. Our fates are woven, but our deeds forge our destiny.
- Guthrum: And so to our final battle. We will wait for you at the camp.
Outcome
Eivor and Guthrum burned down Werham, rescued Guthrum's men, and set a plan to attack King Aelfred.