317 CCCXVII. The Draft

When he arrived near one of the tables, the people seated around it began to get up, but he placed his hand on a man's shoulder, inviting him and his friends to sit back.

He placed the full mug on the table and, addressing all the people in the square, said: "Do you know what makes this mead so good?" 

The crowd in front of him looked at him confused, not answering that strange question.

"It's not the honey with which it was produced, nor is the spices floating inside it... what makes it so special is the fact that I'm drinking it with you. Its unique flavor comes from the spirit of sharing that unites us! Whether you're a Master, a farmer, a blacksmith, a carpenter... or even the King of all Vikings... never mind. We will all drink the same excellent mead, toasting and celebrating in the same way!" he exclaimed, raising his mug upwards and looking at it with hopeful eyes.