Chapter 39 Far from home

Swoosh*

The gentle sound of waves echoed among the cliffs as the group of people traveled across the valley to find a new home. The bright sun shone upon them, illuminating their path but no one dared to talk in this weather because they had no strength and words to say.

Magnus looked at his people who were walking and sailing with them, knowing he had to leave them somewhere where they could live and flourish. Otherwise, most of them would die in the middle of their ways. Specifically elders and children were weak to such harsh conditions. Furthermore, he had some of them were injured, so dragging them with him was a death sentence.

" Most of them wouldn't make it alive. We have to make a choice, Magnus. After defeat in our home, our people have no will to continue this journey and some of them are too exhausted."

Freyja said calmly while looking at Halfdan who was knocked out cold by Magnus. Before their journey Halfdan was being too reckless due to his friendship with Helena and Magnus had to do it.

" You are right. I believe we have to visit Jarl Scylding. He might be able to help us."

Magnus sighed with a helpless face, feeling his empty arm which he had to cut off prior to this. His arm was already abolished and looking for a doctor was impossible amidst the battle.

" Yes, Scylding would help us but he wouldn't accept everyone. So, we have to continue our journey to farland."

Freyja trusted Scylding who was the dry brother of Magnus but even so, they had to think of a way for themselves.

" We will the group of injured people with the children and elders. I believe continuing our ancestor's path is the wisest choice here."

However, Freyja absolutely denied that idea because the risk was too big. Their ancestors were surely great warriors but time was different now and they had no supplies to support this kind of journey.

" It is too foolish a move. We don't have boats and food for that kind of journey. Our men will die from the raging tides and that is an alien land which is far from the protection of our gods and ancestors."

Magnus pursued his lips, not mentioning it anymore but he decided this was the most efficient way. Besides, he recalled that place had one of best men on the land and they were extremely loyal people once they gave their loyalty.

The most important thing to them was the army and settlement to survive in the harsh winter. Furthermore, strength to protect themselves from other enemies.

A burly man came from behind, walking next to them with a calm face.

" Leader, elder Bryn wishes to talk with you."

Magnus nodded at Bo, gesturing him to bring him to him as Bryn came next to them. His face was haggard and he had no beard on his face but he didn't lose his fire in his eyes.

" Magnus, I know you from your young age. You are a great warrior and leader but this time I have to take the mantle of your burden. I know you are going to Scylding and you will probably leave our weak people there."

Magnus didn't say anything to him except, bowing his head with shame. Bryn's rough hand gently patted his shoulder, conveying it was all alright. He didn't blame Magnus for a being parent and he didn't want to do that.

" Leave them to me, child. This would be my last duty as the elder and the warrior. You must continue your journey and come back with victory. I know you gave your words but I trust in you. These young warriors will become fearsome legends."

A soft smile formed on his face as he pulled out his prized dagger which was made from ebony and rare metal.

" Give this to Halfdan when he is ready. He will become the greatest warrior and I know it. He has blood of the great warrior in his veins and he was blessed by all gods."

His voice contained the unyielding will of his and his fire for the future. For them, he was nothing but ashes for their flourishing.