Contents
Chapter Thirty-One: Orka
Overview
Orka, after training Mord and Lif during a hard detour north, arrives at Darl and witnesses Queen Helka’s ceremonial landing with Hakon and an Iskidan guest. She quietly equips herself, pays for docking, and parts from the brothers. Resolute, Orka commits to searching the fortress-town for Breca, regardless of opposition.
Summary
At dawn, Orka drills Lif in close-quarters craft, stressing footwork, balance, and striking in flurries. Mord jokes through bruises earned over their long, covert journey north, during which Orka has hardened their skills despite Mord’s healing wounds. They crest a rise to see Darl ahead, and Orka’s hope and vengeance sharpen at the thought of Breca.
They row into Darl’s crowded river, pay a harbor fee without haggling, and Orka quietly arms herself in mail with axe, seax, and spear. Horns sound as three great drakkars dock at a reserved pier. Úlfhéðnar disembark, forming a guard as Queen Helka appears, followed by her son Hakon and a finely dressed Iskidan guest, then proceeds into the city with an honor guard.
As the docks return to normal, Orka announces it is time to part. She offers Mord and Lif coin and counsel to bide their time before seeking vengeance on Guðvarr, though she leaves the choice to them. Orka then strides alone into Darl, determined to find Breca and cut down any who stand in her way.
Who Appears
- OrkaTrainer and avenger; reaches Darl armed and determined to find Breca; parts from Mord and Lif.
- LifLearns Orka’s fighting craft; wavers between bold vengeance and caution; accepts coin and advice.
- MordBruised but eager pupil; skeptical of taking coin; considers Orka’s counsel on vengeance.
- Queen HelkaArrives by drakkar with Úlfhéðnar honor guard; her presence heightens danger in Darl.
- HakonHelka’s son; lands with his mother during the ceremonial arrival at Darl.
- Iskidan guestForeign companion in fine kaftan with curved sword and bow; arrives with Helka.
- HarbourmasterCollects docking fee from Orka, a forgettable transaction she prefers.