𝑨𝒓𝒅𝒊𝒕𝒉 | ✔️

14 | Einar

Summer, 29th June 864AD – Night

Three weeks passed since the last Viking raid.

I was not sure when it would be their next raid. One thing is for certain – we needed to be on the watch. Anything could happen with time. For now, we had enough time to rebuild our lives and prepare defences in case these Vikings attack tomorrow.

Ever since becoming enlisted in the Valiants' Auxiliary team, I have spent my days participating in gruelling drills and perfecting my sword fighting skills. Cwenhild and I would train around sundown and dawn until we were drenched in sweat.

I was getting better with time. I observed I was quicker on my feet, which was an advantage when faced with a Dane.

However, I needed to improve on watching my back from behind. In some instances, the enemy could come from behind, and I needed to be ready for their attacks.

Cwenhild had mastered her archery skills; she had better dexterity and aim. As for me, I've missed my targets a few times, all because of my trembling fingers.

In a few short weeks, we would have our final examination. Only the most skilled and dedicated would earn a place in the king's army. By having that honour, we were privileged to accompany the king and other veterans on explorations and missions to save unfortunate lives stranded at sea. Most of all, we were capable enough to fend off Danes in raids.

I have not chosen this path, but perhaps it must be fate. I do not have any vengeance on the Danes; but to be there to protect the vulnerable and of course travel out of our marshy English home.

Tonight, Cwenhild and the other trainees were feasting in the Meade Hall. However, I chose not to partake tonight. I went for a stroll in the wilderness, deciding to take the time for solitude.

I clambered the clifftop where the old lookout stood. It had not been used in years because of its decaying wood and its inconvenience. A few years ago, the king had a new lookout built near the docks where sentries would find it easier to spot incoming ships.

Nobody usually came up here but me. I found this ancient area a place to seek solitude. When I reached the top of the cliff, I felt the cool breeze whipped against my face. My dark hair flapped in the night air.

Instead of my training attire, I was dressed in my usual blue linen dress. It was nice to finally wear something light again instead of my chainmail and leather, which sweat all day.

When I reached the old lookout, I realized I would not be the only person here tonight. I waved my torch; the glowing embers igniting my way. I noticed a fire was lit in the pit, leaving a trail of ashes around the circular edges.

The smell of something roasting filtered my nostrils. Then I saw a boar's leg rotating over the fire, impaled on a long stick.

A double headed axe leaned against the wooden seat. Drops of blood rolled down the metal surface like tears.

Somebody must have been hunting tonight. What I found strange was why this old lookout came to use now. The previous times I've came here it was usually vacant.

I glanced around, an anxious feeling bubbling in my belly. I could sense something was not right here. Hand resting on my belt, I slowly drew out my sword, clasping the leather hilt with my pale hands.

I circled the fire pit, watching my back frantically. Whoever was here could attack any time.

"Hello?" I called to the darkness. "I-Is somebody out here? If you are, show yourself. I promise I will not hurt you. If you promise you won't hurt me either."