A World Turned Harsh (SWORD OF OÐIN Book 1) by C. R. May

Author:C. R. May [May, C. R.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2023-05-20T16:00:00+00:00

Despite his misgivings, the afternoon games and entertainments turned out to be a great success for king Hythcyn. Although his grandfather had seemed well-liked by the Geatish people, Beowulf was surprised by the speed with which he appeared to have been forgotten by the vast majority of the population. As Alfhelm, more familiar than the majority of them in day to day dealings with the common folk, had explained; “give them a day free from toil, and plenty of food and ale to boot, and they will be happy to doff their cap to your dog.”

The mood was different in the king’s enclosure. Beowulf and Heardred had naturally spent the afternoon in the company of their fathers. For Beowulf, it was the first opportunity to speak to Edgetheow since the morning of the oath giving at home. Hythcyn had made a conscious effort it seemed to leave the four of them alone, realising perhaps that if he did not trust them at some point, he could never expect them to accept him as king. Although only a few months had passed since that day, Beowulf was surprised to have feelings bordering on disloyalty towards Hythcyn as they discussed the situation in the kingdom.

Edgetheow said: “I hear that you are becoming accepted as part of his inner circle? That’s good, Beowulf. The more you can gain his trust, the easier it will be when the time comes. He seems to think that he can kill the king and heir, his father and brother, usurp the crown, and carry on as if nothing has happened.”

Hygelac echoed his thoughts. “Yes, you are doing well, Beowulf,” he said. His eyes moved across to his son. “Better than some, who seem to be letting pride stand in their way.” He gave Heardred a nudge and a wink. “The longer this goes on, the harder it will be for us to take our revenge. Presently, memories are bright — wounds are fresh. The more time that passes before we strike back, the more likely it is that he will be able to buy his way into acceptance. You saw the people today,” he said. The four men looked across to the water meadow below Gefrin. Men, women, and children were upbeat as they took full advantage of their new king’s generosity. “Only a few of us have a code of honour,” Hygelac went on, glancing across as Alfhelm’s laughter filled the tent. “The rest are always available for the right price. Sometimes even the most surprising people set a price on their honour.” The others nodded in agreement. “Beowulf,” he continued, as his gaze returned. “Never think we are unaware that you find the thought of serving under him attractive. We were all young once, and yearned for a chance to prove ourselves on the battlefield. Well, if all goes to plan, you will get your chance soon to fight alongside us against the monster that my brother has become — and sooner than you think.”

Edgetheow took up the cause.

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