Thread: A Viking's Tale (Charon & ScarletAngel)

They threaded their way through the vales, the rain completely muffling their movement, avoiding the crofters huts and the few villages along the way. It is a beautiful country, Orm thought to himself as they marched. The men were in good order, avoiding the temptation of plunder did more to keep it that way than anything else and the Jarl absently touched the pendant again bidding his luck continue. He passed the word that no battle cry be raised until they gained entrance to the castle. Their luck held until they reached the edge of the village. His scouts had found a route which led them closest to the keep but nevertheless it still lay in the center of the village. The sun was just beginning to wake in the east and he knew they would have to make a dash for the gate and gain quick entry otherwise it could become messy work and the village would bear the brunt of it. He hadnt allowed the men to cut trees and build scaling ladders the noise of chopping would have been heard for miles, even in the rain, and aroused suspicions. No choice but a mad dash. What he wouldnt give for a score of berserkers right now. Suddenly he struck upon an idea. He pulled off his helmet and quickly unbuckled his sword. What in Odins beard are you doing? It was Thorgrim at his side, puzzled as he watched his lord pulling at his armor. You should have pissed before putting it on. Help me get this off- yours too. I need 20 men, strong with sword and light of foot. We must take the gate and hold just long enough for the rest to join us. The Hammer loved the idea of course- it was brash and the stuff of legend. At least put your leather back on, he asked, something to slow their blades my lord. Thorgrim sent the order for 18 others to join them. No time brother. Orm managed to say as he shrugged the chainmail up over his head, letting it fall to the ground. He buckled his sword belt and prepared his shield, emblazoned with the copper dragon. As an afterthought he slid the helmet back on- so his men might see it in battle and know it was him. Within minutes the 20 were assembled and ready to go. How far do you make it Thor? He asked. A few cables at least, not that it matters. Ill be first to the gate anyway. He was smiling broadly offering the bet. Fair said brother. What say we make this interesting? He turned to the rest of the men who were to make the run. Two gold coins one from the Dragon and one from the Hammer for the first man to make the gate. Thorgrim shook his head now it was Orms turn to smile broadly as he patted him on the back. Now well see how fast you run my friend. They were crouched, like feral cats ready to pounce at a single word. Orm looked to his left, right and behind at his men, free of armor carried only weapon and shield. Tonight we drink either in the castle or Valhalla. With me warriors of Ivarsgard! He broke into a run the men behind him. Dogs began barking as they broke through the trees and down a narrow street. Thor was there at his side keeping pace and the two shared a smile, running as they did in their childhood, only this run had a bloodier finish. They didn't keep the lead for long however before eight or nine younger warriors passed them up, each hoping for the gold. The gate still hung open and the first sign the two guards posted there had that anything was amiss was six crazed Norsemen crashing into them and swords driven deep into their bellies as the Viking battle cry went up. In an instant the remaining men, Orm, Thorgrim and the rest were through the gate and on the attack.