Chapter Twenty-Five: Elvar

In a Snakavik tavern, Elvar drinks heavily while brooding on Jarl Störr’s proposal that she return and command her own warband. Grend counsels caution, reminding her that Störr always hides plans within plans. Biórr and Bjarn join nearby; Elvar explains she left to win fame and avoid being her father’s pawn, while Biórr pointedly notes her inner struggle.

Sighvat summons Elvar to Agnar. Agnar, respectful of her privacy, checks on her and pays Elvar and Grend their shares. He tells Elvar she has proved herself and will always have an oar-bench with the Battle-Grim, urging her to follow her heart and mind. Elvar remains undecided but moved by his support.

Outside, Uspa urgently asks when they will leave Snakavik, refusing to explain to a mead-drunk Elvar; she promises to speak when Elvar is sober. Seeking clarity, Elvar decides to consult Hrung’s preserved giant head in her father’s hall. Gytha leads her there; Hrung wakes when Elvar moistens his lips with mead.

Elvar asks whether she should accept Störr’s offer. Hrung speaks in riddles about being silent, thoughtful, and bold, then poses a question—whether sun can be cold, sea dry, or wolf a lamb—implying natures do not change. As footsteps approach, Hrung refuses a direct answer.

With Störr’s arrival imminent, Elvar tips the last of the mead to Hrung and flees the hall with Grend, leaving before confronting her father, still torn between independence with the Battle-Grim and power under Störr.