Contents
Chapter Sixteen: Varg
Overview
Varg wakes battered from Røkia’s training and a mead-sick night, then approaches Vol to request an akáll. Glornir denies him full membership, framing Varg as an apprentice who must prove loyalty and skill first. Glornir gives Varg coin for equipment, and the Bloodsworn prepare to sail with the tide.
Summary
Varg wakes in agony after Røkia’s relentless training and heavy mead, his body bruised and sliced from drills. Svik rouses him with banter and unexpected help, reminding Varg that he is among comrades now, not alone on a farm or in the fighting rings.
Across the hall, Glornir meets with Jarl Logur and Vol while thralls ready food. Glornir thanks Logur for hospitality and confirms the Bloodsworn will sail with the tide. Sälla wryly notes she will handle the provisioning as Logur departs to make preparations.
Varg approaches, intending to speak with Glornir but directing his plea to Vol: he wants an akáll to relive a last life-moment. Before Vol can answer, Glornir interjects and challenges Varg’s assumption that he is Bloodsworn, despite saving him and allowing him to train.
Glornir explains he spared Varg for his potential, but admission demands more than speed and courage; it requires judgment and loyalty “unto death.” For now, Varg is an apprentice who will learn, obey, and fight while proving himself worthy of the oath.
To ready Varg for coming battles, Glornir gives him coin to buy proper gear, warning that otherwise he will soon be dead and buried. As Vol departs with Glornir and the crew stirs, Svik urges Varg to spend the money quickly, with the ship set to leave on the tide.
Who Appears
- VargHungover and battered; asks Vol for an akáll; told he is only an apprentice; given coin for gear.
- GlornirBloodsworn leader; sets terms for Varg’s apprenticeship; withholds oath; provides coin; prepares to sail.
- SvikCheerfully supportive; helps Varg up and pushes him to gear up and spend Glornir’s coin.
- VolSeiðr-witch; hears Varg’s request for an akáll before Glornir intervenes; leaves with him.
- RøkiaVarg’s harsh trainer; present during the exchange, skeptical and watchful.
- Jarl LogurHost in Liga; thanks and farewells the Bloodsworn, arranging their supplies.
- SällaLogur’s wife; quips that she will handle provisions for the Bloodsworn’s departure.