Aeleva; The Viking Saxon

Chapter 22

There was talk of a raid across the marshland.

One reason the Saxons had not been successful in reclaiming Thanet was because it was surrounded by an impassable bog. There was a makeshift bridge. Hastily crafted out of any planks of wood the Danes could find. The original bridge was destroyed by the Saxons to try and defend the main land. The Dane bridge was narrow and wobbly as well as heavily guarded by Oddi's men. The only way off of Thanet was by the bridge or you could take the thin winding water way in a boat only big enough for two. A surge was near on impossible.

The Saxons were clever, they destroyed any boats that came from Daneland, carrying supplies and men. They sailed burning ships into the sea, which crashed into the Danish boats. It was fiercely effective.

The men had become restless, including Oddi's son Lukas. These men had crossed on a promise of gold and land from the Saxons and all they got was a Barron island filled with dusty monasteries.

So, a plan was made to raid. The chosen town was the one closest to the bridge. It was a town called Richborough. It was just a small village but they hoped it would provide food and coin, if not a day out.

Most men were keen, so a skeleton crew was to stay behind. Once Toki announced it in the hall, the island was buzzing with anticipation. Everyone started sharpening swords and grooming beards. No one questioned when I wanted to come along.

It was the second day since I had arrived. I was absolutely exhausted from the boat journey. I had not slept the first night. The fear of being discovered as a Christian would not leave me. I had no plan on how to get out of this island. In the gathering of Toki, Oddi and Lukas I had seen, it was made very clear I could not just simply walk off of Thanet. I questioned my decision to leave Ribe. I had earned respect and status there. I could live a rich life with Hagen. He would give me banquets and jewels while I bore him sons. I had left that all and run miles across the sea. But I had run home.

"The men have become restless." Hersir Siger announced over dinner. We were sat in the dining hall. It had high ceilings that absorbed all the sound, making the room feel even more gigantic. The men all sat on the benches and ate from the tables the monks would have previously. Only difference being, the men were adorned with swords and axes. The food was basic as the supplies were wearing thin. But I did not care as it was hot and fulfilling.

"I have gathered." I snarked. Making Hersir Siger chuckle.

"We have only just arrived. A man should fill his belly and warm his bed before running off to fight again." Siger huffed and took a sip of ale. He lent back and stared at me. He was not a man in his youth, scars and lines on his face spoke the experience he had gained. He had light eyes, the kind you couldn't quite place the colour. His beard was finely groomed. Most men's were. He had dark marking on his chest and neck. Images of trees and a wolf, a homage to Fenrir. The viscous wolf and son of the God, Loki. A few months ago, I would of ran fearful of such a man staring at me but in that moment, I kept his gaze, I knew he meant me no harm.

"Half of these men have come from Ribe." Siger continued. "Including you." He chuckled. He shook his head and then started eating again. Laughing at the younger men's need to show off their strength.

"What do you know about the Christian army?" I asked after a time. I wanted to know as much as possible about my people.

"Little. I don't plan, I follow where instructed." Siger replied casually, with food in his mouth.

"King Offa is in Kent?" He looked up at me. The confused look in his eye made my heart drop. Had I asked too much?

"I don't know. Spies say his men and court are in Canterbury. The spies keep coming back without heads, it's hard to get a full picture."