The Shadow of the Gods

Content Warning: This section contains scenes of graphic violence and child abuse.

As the Battle-Grim wake in a Snakavik tavern, Elvar joins Uspa and Bjarn and feels unfamiliar sympathy for them despite her usual detachment from their captives. Gytha, Jarl Störr’s champion, arrives with payment for Berak and announces that the jarl has come to speak with his estranged daughter.

Elvar faces her father and brothers, Thorun and Broðir, along with Silrið, the jarl’s Galdurwoman, a practitioner of rune magic. Störr chastises Elvar for joining the Battle-Grim and for the shame her departure brought upon him. Elvar refuses to be a part of a marriage alliance with Queen Helka’s son, Hakon, but is surprised by her father’s unexpected offer of a warband for her to lead. Jarl Störr tells her to consider his offer before the group leaves again.

Orka, Mord, and Lif row to a hidden spot along the riverbank, where Orka retrieves her spear and supplies. They set up a temporary camp and Orka explains what happened to her husband and son. Though the brothers still want revenge, Orka advises patience and cunning rather than rushing into action. While Mord is frustrated, Lif pleads for her to take them with her and help them learn to fight better.