Wolfgar: The Story of a Viking

By James Richard Larson

Take a trip back in time on an edge of your seat adventure-a spellbinding "can't put down" romp with the Vikings of old!

The Tenth Century sets the stage for Wolfgar, an epic saga of the Viking era. This sweeping novel spans from the new world in the west to the far reaches of Russia.

Shipwrecked and stranded, the vitki Wolfgar and his followers must accept the fate the gods have ordained-that they will remain in a strange new world inhabited by a society totally alien to them.

Distraught that his mother has remarried, Ragnar searches for his father Wolfgar, only to have his quest shattered on the North Sea by an unforeseen evil.

Torn from his mother as a boy, before he is a man Olaf is forced to shed the blood of an enemy. An heir to the royal house of Norway, to prove his birthright the young barbarian must fight his way in a hostile world.

Each thread of this epic tale interweaves into an enjoyable read guaranteed to keep the pages turning!

• Language: English
• Publisher: iUniverse
• Release date: Aug 8, 2006
• ISBN: 9780595847273

James Richard Larson

Novelist James Richard Larson, a United States Navy veteran, makes his home in southeastern Wisconsin with his wife Diane and family.

Book preview

Copyright © 2006 by James R. Larson

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced by any means, graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording,

taping or by any information storage retrieval system without the written permission of the publisher except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

iUniverse books may be ordered through booksellers or by contacting:

iUniverse

2021 Pine Lake Road, Suite 100

Lincoln, NE 68512

www.iuniverse.com

1-800-Authors (1-800-288-4677)

This is a work of fiction. All of the characters, names, incidents, organizations and dialogue in this novel are either the products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.

This is a work of fiction. All of the characters, names, incidents, organizations and dialogue in this novel are either the products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.

ISBN-13: 978-0-595-40352-3 (pbk)

ISBN-13: 978-0-595-67795-5 (cloth)

ISBN-13: 978-0-595-84727-3 (ebk)

ISBN-10: 0-595-40352-2 (pbk)

ISBN-10: 0-595-67795-9 (cloth)

ISBN-10: 0-595-84727-7 (ebk)

CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1

CHAPTER 2

CHAPTER 3

CHAPTER 4

CHAPTER 5

CHAPTER 6

CHAPTER 7

CHAPTER 8

CHAPTER 9

CHAPTER 10

CHAPTER 11

CHAPTER 12

CHAPTER 13

CHAPTER 14

CHAPTER 15

CHAPTER 16

CHAPTER 17

CHAPTER 18

CHAPTER 19

CHAPTER 20

CHAPTER 21

CHAPTER 22

For

Sandra and Roger Pietz,

Beverly and John Nelson,

Wayne and Rebecca Larson,

Jon and Sharon Larson,

and my dear wife

Diane

The stories of Ragnar and his travels, Captain Sven Olesson, and the Swedish Vikings in the land of the Rus will continue in the third novel of the Eye of Odin series titled

VIKINGS OF THE EAST

CHAPTER 1

Legs pumping, lungs about ready to burst, Two Feathers ran as if he were being pursued in his worst nightmare. Nearing the bend in the trail, he couldn’t see the deadfall branch obstructing the deer path. When his foot lodged under the branch and it snapped with an audible crack, the Lenape Indian pitched headlong, sprawling onto the soft forest floor.

The thoughts raced through his mind. The clan won’t believe it! Were they real? Of course they were real—didn’t I see them? But they weren’t of the people, were they? They were somehow—different! Two Feathers sprang to his feet. Again he set off at a run.

East of the village, Chogan made his way down the trail toward the sea. Learning that Two Feathers had killed a fine buck deer, Chogan meant to help his friend. After the violent storm and screaming winds, there was much damage to the trees, some of them uprooted completely out of the ground. Occasionally late summer brought such storms from the great ocean, but Chogan couldn’t remember a tempest as savage as this one.

As Chogan walked, he thought of the woman Blue Fox. If only she knew how I feel about her. I wish—wait! What’s that? In the distance Chogan saw Two Feathers coming toward him at a dead run. Why is he running? Where’s the deer?

Seeing Chogan on the trail ahead, Two Feathers stopped. Chest heaving, he bent forward, laboring to catch his breath.

Two Feathers! Chogan shouted. What’s wrong? Where’s the deer?

On the trail behind me.

You left it there?

Two Feathers gasped, I had to. I have to get back to the village! I have to talk to Silent Owl! Did White Bird send you?

No. I thought you’d need help. Little Deer told us of your kill. Why do you have to talk to Silent Owl?

Worried, Two Feathers shot a glance back toward the ocean.

I have to tell you something.

What is it? Chogan asked. What’s wrong? You look as if you’ve seen a spirit!

You’re going to find out soon enough, so I’ll tell you. But I don’t want you to repeat this thing, or even speak of it until Silent Owl decides what to do!

Enough! Two Feathers! Tell me!

Two Feathers said, "Do you remember Silent Owl’s prediction?

Do you mean about the Swanukken? The salt-water people? A story, that’s all!

Yes, the Swanukken. What would you say if I told you I saw them?

You saw Swanukken? How did you know they were Swanukken?

"Because they were men, and women. Chogan, they’re different. I counted eleven of them, and they’re over by the sand beaches right now as we speak."

"Swanukken? Are sure? How do you know they aren’t just people from another tribe?"

Because I got nearly as close to one of them as I am to you right now, close enough to see that his eyes were blue, and he had something I’ve never seen before.

What was it? Chogan asked.

He had fur growing on his face. And when I saw the rest of them, all the men all had fur on their faces.

Actual fur? I can’t believe it!

Well, maybe not fur as you’re thinking, maybe more like thick hair. But it grew on their faces. And there was another thing.

What?

There was something that looked like a canoe, or a boat, except it was larger than anything I’ve ever seen, many times larger than the biggest war canoe. It was in pieces from the storm, and some of the pieces were thrown up on the shore. I think it was the boat that brought them here, and the storm destroyed it.

Chogan added, Which means that now they can’t leave here.

That’s right, they can’t. And that’s why we have to tell Silent Owl first, without anyone else knowing about it. The shaman will know what to do. It was Silent Owl who told of their coming. He must be the first to know.

Grinning, Chogan said, But you told me first, Two Feathers.

Then that can be our secret. Agreed? Everyone will know soon enough. What I think Silent Owl will do is this. He’ll call a council of the elders. When they decide what to do, I think they’ll want to talk to the Swanukken, and learn why they’re here.

Dark Wolf will want to kill them. So will Raven, Chogan said.

That’s why the council must decide. I think they’ll try and determine if the Swanukken pose a threat. Many questions must be answered. Where did they come from? Will there be more of them? Will others come looking for them? How will they go back from where they came?

Chogan said, I’m anxious to hear what Silent Owl has to say, seeing he was right. Raven isn’t going to like it.

The people were beginning to doubt Silent Owl, Two Feathers said. "I don’t think they’ll ever doubt him again. There’s no question of it now. He can see the future."

I wish I could, Chogan said.

What. See the future?

I was only thinking of Blue Fox, Chogan said.

Blue Fox? If I were you I’d forget about that one. She’ll be Raven’s woman. Come on, lets get moving!

In the sacred wigwam, Silent Owl, dream shaman of the Turtle Clan of the Lenni Lenape, studied the warrior Two Feathers. So, it has come to pass, he thought. The Swanukken are here.

You say you counted eleven of them? Silent Owl asked.

Yes, seven men and four women.

Did they appear hostile?

No, if anything they appeared hungry and weak. Although the one I saw up close seemed strong enough.

What did he look like?

Well, for one thing, he had fur, or thick hair on his face. His eyes were blue; blue the color of the sea. Some of them had hair that looked almost yellow. The one I saw up close had hair the color of a chestnut. I startled him when he saw me, but not for long. He was as curious as I was. I have to admit I must have been gaping at him. While we stood there looking at each other, a woman screamed, and he ran back to his people. When I went to look, one of the men had killed a snake.

Silent Owl nodded, A good omen. How do you suppose they came here?

There was a huge canoe from the look of it, but the storm must have torn it apart. Well, maybe not a canoe, but it had to be some kind of boat. Parts of it were strewn about the water and beach.

Silent Owl stared past Two Feathers. Deep in thought, the dream shaman seemed to be falling asleep. Finally, he said, Two Feathers, I want you to take one man with you and go back to the Swanukken. I want you to bring them food. Keep your weapons out of sight. Be extremely careful. Be friendly toward them. Bringing them food will make them realize that we mean them no harm.

Do we mean them no harm? Two Feathers asked. When Dark Wolf learns of this, he’ll want to kill them. And he won’t be the only one.

Which is why I want you to go to the Swanukken immediately, Silent Owl said. Tell no one about this, and that includes White Bird. I’ll give you enough time to make friends with these newcomers. Then I’ll call a council and we’ll decide what to do. Once you’re gone from here, there’s nothing the others can do but wait. They’ll want to hear from you first before making any decision. Who will you take with you?

I will take Chogan.

A good choice, seeing he already knows what we know.

Two Feathers regarded the shaman. How did you know I told him?

I am dream shaman of the Turtle clan. And I think I know you very well, Two Feathers. I’ve watched you grow from a boy to a man. I know that you are not a teller of tales or a gossip, and I know of your friendship with Chogan. It’s all right, Silent Owl smiled. I’ll keep your secret. Now, you must go, and quickly.

Two Feathers got up to leave, and made the sign of respect. He hesitated at the flap opening and turned to Silent Owl. Again he gave the sign of respect and said, Truly you are a chosen one, for the Great Spirit speaks to you.

Silent Owl nodded and smiled. Although he heard compliments often, he knew that coming from Two Feathers, the words were sincere.

It was true that the Great Spirit, the creator of man, did on occasion speak to him. When Silent Owl learned from the waking dream that the time of the Swanukken was at hand, he listened closely and heeded the voice of the Great Spirit. Now he knew it had not been a dream at all, but a vision. The Great Spirit had spoken to him.

In their wigwam, White Bird watched her husband with interest as he gathered food. Moments before, Chogan had come in with him. Chogan was carrying a makuk, a box-like backpack made from tree bark, also filled with food.

What is this, that you carry so much food? Where are you going? White Bird asked.

We go on an errand for Silent Owl, and he wishes us not to speak of it, Two Feathers explained.

"And you can’t tell me about this? This is a secret between you and Chogan? You can’t tell your wife, but Chogan knows?"

On hearing this, Chogan flinched as though being struck, and White Bird gave him an angry look.

You’ll find out soon enough, even though I made a promise to the shaman, Two Feathers said. But if you must know, I’ll tell you. Just remember that as soon as the words leave my lips, Silent Owl will know of it. Then I’ll no longer have his trust. Let it be your decision.

White Bird saw that he spoke the truth. She asked, It is that important?

Yes, it is.

Then I’ll wait. But the curiosity burns me.

Two Feathers then embraced White Bird and said, I can tell you this much. Silent Owl will be calling for a council very soon. Then everyone will know what this is about.

Is there danger? White Bird asked.

Two Feathers said, I honestly don’t know. I don’t think so. But we have to go right now. Come on Chogan, let’s get moving.

Chogan?

Yes, White Bird?

White Bird gave Chogan a shy smile. I’m sorry for what I said.

Chogan returned her smile. That’s all right, White Bird. I understand.

On the way out of the wigwam, in their haste they nearly ran over Blue Fox, coming to visit White Bird. The men exchanged quick greetings with her, and hurried away.

What was that all about? Blue Fox asked.

I don’t know if I’m supposed to say, White Bird said. You know how men are. Always going here and there, so full of themselves. They’re up to something, I know that much. Some big secret.

The two Lenape warriors of the Turtle clan trotted with their loads toward the beaches and eventually came to the place where Two Feathers first encountered the Swanukken. They were nowhere to be seen, but their tracks were easy to follow. The signs showed that they’d made a fire and eaten the snake. Then they moved inland about a mile and a half, and found a natural shelter in the woods beside a stream. Two Feathers and Chogan decided to observe them for a while before making contact. Unseen, they watched the Swanukken. Two Feathers saw that they had already constructed a makeshift shelter out of tree branches. One of the Swanukken wielded a tool neither of the Lenape had ever seen before, a tool that cut wood and flashed in the sun. After a time, the Swanukken rested, and Two Feathers decided to approach them. He laid his bow and lance on the ground, as did Chogan, and they slowly emerged out into the open, and walked toward the strangers.

Tired and hungry, Wolfgar heard Regin’s wife Berta shout, Regin! Berta pointed to the east, where two of the native men approached.

Rothgar! Wolfgar shouted.

Rothgar came up beside Wolfgar and said, What do we do?

Don’t make any sudden moves! We’ll try and communicate with them. Walk beside me—slow and easy!

Wolfgar and Rothgar walked into the clearing, and saw that each of the native men carried something. Whatever it was, there were no weapons displayed. When Wolfgar continued on toward them, the natives stopped in their tracks and waited. Wolfgar moved carefully, slowly, and soon was about fifteen feet from the same native he had seen before. The man came forward alone, and left his partner stand several paces behind.

Rothgar, stay behind me as the other man has done, Wolfgar said.

Rothgar stopped. Wolfgar continued to walk toward the nearer, taller native. Now only an arm’s length apart, they faced one another.

Wolfgar then smiled and nodded to the native, who looked on with even more curiosity, and Wolfgar realized the native was staring at his beard. The native felt his own face, then reached and felt Wolfgar’s face. Then the native broke into a smile that changed his features, defusing the tension of the moment.

Wolfgar chuckled when the man took his hand away. The native looked again at Wolfgar’s face, and he let out a booming laugh. Still grinning, the native gestured to Wolfgar, and by making signs conveyed the idea that he had food. He mimicked a person eating, and then he rubbed his stomach, pointing to the survivors who were all standing now some distance away, watching. The native gave Wolfgar a questioning look and spoke an unintelligible word. Wolfgar understood the native’s intent, and so nodded and rubbed his own stomach. At that precise moment Wolfgar’s stomach growled loud enough where even the shorter native could hear it. This brought a shrieking laugh from the first native and then the other. The smaller native then unslung the container from his back, and opened it. Made from tree bark, it resembled a square sack, and was adorned with a finely detailed floral and leaf design. Wolfgar saw that the container was filled with food, and his mouth watered when he saw the meat, grain and dried fish.

They bring us food, Wolfgar said loud enough for all to hear. They come in peace!

Two Feathers said to Chogan, I think they understand why we’re here, that we’ll feed them. I’ll make a fire and we’ll roast the venison.

They look like they’re starving, Chogan said. I can’t believe it. They actually do have fur on their faces, like animals. But they seem friendly enough.

Two Feathers soon had a cooking fire going, and it was not long before the savory aroma of fresh venison promised a good meal. Chogan circulated among the Swanukken and offered them food, which they gratefully accepted. The women were especially curious. Chogan noticed that although their skin was weathered, it was lighter than he had ever seen. They ate ravenously of the fish and grainy flat bread, and when the meat was cooked they ate it as if they were starving.

Two Feathers tried to communicate with their chief, but the sounds the Swanukken made were unintelligible. This is going to take a long time, Two Feathers thought. After trial and error, he found that the chief of the Swanukken called himself Wolfgar. The other leader was called Rothgar. The Swanukken seemed to learn his and Chogan’s names easily enough, once they repeated the sounds.

Noticing that the first native kept looking at Rothgar’s axe, Wolfgar said, Rothgar, he shows keen interest in your axe. Do you want to show it to him?

I don’t want him to think I’m giving it away, Rothgar said. He looks at it as though he wants it.

I think by making signs he may understand, Wolfgar said. Hand it to me. Make sure he’s watching.

Wolfgar took the axe and hefted it, and openly admired it. He then made much of returning it back to Rothgar. Then, with a questioning look, Wolfgar again took the axe from Rothgar and handed it to Two Feathers.

The native immediately understood. He took the axe from Wolfgar’s hand and looked at it very closely, feeling the sharp edge and marveling at the material from which it was made. It was harder than the copper he was familiar with, which was not much good for cutting wood. Flint worked better, but this tool was made of something different entirely. After studying it a bit longer, Two Feathers made an exaggerated showing of giving the axe back to Rothgar, thus letting these salt-water people know that he understood. Relieved, Rothgar nodded and smiled his thanks.

By using signs and gestures, the first native conveyed the idea that he wished to go to the beaches, presumably to view the wreck of the Raven.

Wolfgar said, Rothgar, I think they want us to go back to the beach with them. You and I will go. The rest can stay here.

Wolfgar called to one of his men, Stig, take care of things here. Continue to work on the shelters. We’ll return soon. It seems the natives want to go to the beaches, and they want me to go with them. I think it’s all right. But just because these two are friendly doesn’t mean the rest of them are. Keep a close watch.

All right, Captain. Just make sure you return, that’s all, and I’ll make sure everyone works.

Don’t worry Stig, we’ll be back.

The natives took off at a trot, and did not look back. Wolfgar and Rothgar hurried to keep up. At the edge of the clearing, Rothgar stopped.

Wolfgar, are you sure you want to leave Hansson in charge?

Why shouldn’t I?

Well, you’re the captain.

What’s that supposed to mean? Wolfgar said. Do you know something I don’t?

You just surprise me, that’s all. Something about Hansson bothers me. Don’t you sense it?

Hansson’s a loner. Maybe giving him a bit of authority will help.

Am I allowed to disagree? I think the others will resent Hansson being left in charge.

If you feel that strongly about it, I won’t do it again. All right?

All right.

"Good. I’m not worried about Hansson. Come on, let’s go see what’s left of the Raven."

The four of them went the short mile and a half to the beaches where the remains of the Raven shifted in the surf. Debris lay strewn about the beach, but Wolfgar knew that Raven held many iron tools in her hold, tools that would be useful to them later, when they built permanent shelters.

It was late summer, and the weather was hot, hotter than Wolfgar ever remembered. It felt like the rooms built over the hot springs in Iceland, where he used to go to sweat himself clean. The natives were dressed for the climate, wearing only enough clothing to cover their essentials. In the heat, Wolfgar and Rothgar shed their shirts. The natives wore leather moccasins, low and without much lacing, and they appeared very comfortable, unlike the Northmen’s footwear—heavy, cumbersome and hot.

Despite the heat, a steady cooling breeze blew in off the ocean. There lay the remains of the Raven, rocking back and forth in the surf. Wolfgar heard Two Feathers ask something. He was pointing at the wreck.

Wolfgar, guessing that Two Feathers wished to know what to call the thing in the surf said, ship.

Ship, Two Feathers repeated. He pointed again at the Raven. Ship, ship.

Wolfgar laughed, That’s right, Two Feathers—ship.

Two Feathers then sat on his haunches. He took a handful of sand and poured it into his other hand. He said the Lenape word for sand. Understanding, Wolfgar repeated the word. As luck would have it, both the Icelander and the native were adept at mimicry and understanding, and both had good powers of memory and recognition.

It was not long before Wolfgar was speaking two and three word sentences and asking questions in the Lenape tongue. Two Feathers was delighted, and astounded with the Swanukken’s ability. But Wolfgar was just as impressed with the Lenape, for he could see the native’s eyes shone with intelligence and comprehension.

From Iceland, the Raven had been bound for Erik the Red’s new settlement at Greenland when a great, violent storm from the north, combined with an undersea earthquake, destroyed many of the vessels in the small fleet of longships and knarrs, scattering them and sinking many. Out of the twenty-five ships that had departed from Gunnarsfjall in Iceland, only fourteen ships made the trip safely to Greenland. Of the eight hundred souls who departed from Iceland to try their luck in a new land, nearly three hundred and fifty had perished. Because of a premonition of disaster, Wolfgar had insisted that his wife Katrine and son Ragnar accompany Erik the Red on Erik’s longship Sleipnir. Believing his vitki father’s prediction of Erik the Red’s fate, Wolfgar felt secure that his wife and son would make it safely to Greenland aboard Sleipnir.

The god Odin, by his runes and signs, had decreed that Wolfgar sail separate from his family. Wolfgar himself was a vitki, or holy man, and he knew well enough to heed the god’s will, so he sailed on Raven. Thus Wolfgar felt content that his wife and son were safe. Had they perished on that fateful voyage, he felt in his heart he would know. He could no longer second-guess and ponder why he did not ship on Sleipnir. The holy runes indicated that had he done so, the result would be disaster for his family.

A skilled swimmer, Wolfgar waded into the surf and was soon swimming out to the wreck, to see what if anything could be salvaged. There were many tools aboard, because Raven had been loaded for a voyage to a new colony. Soon, Wolfgar noticed that Chogan and Two Feathers were swimming as well, diving and retrieving things from the hold. Rothgar was not a good swimmer, and so stayed ashore and gathered up what the divers brought in. After a while, there were many items in the pile.

Back on the beach, they rested, after getting what they could salvage. Wolfgar noticed how Two Feathers eyed the hatchet in the pile of tools.

Rothgar, Wolfgar said.

Yes?

I think I’m going to give Two Feathers the axe. Do you have any objection?

I don’t know. Do you think it’s a good idea?

To be honest with you, I don’t know either. But it will show we trust him. And that very well might be the most important thing for our survival. He obviously comes from a town or village, which means more people. They may not be as kindly disposed to us as these two natives are. If we can build trust with these two, we’ll have friends. You never know when we might need them. I’m going to give him the axe. But I want you to know the reason for it. So, what do you say?

Rothgar did not answer for a moment, for he still could not find it in himself to trust these new men, but he finally and reluctantly said, Agreed.

Good.

As Two Feathers and Chogan watched him, Wolfgar went to the pile and picked up the axe. He wiped the blade and dried the handle, and hefting it in his hand, looked at the axe as though he greatly admired it. Then he walked over to Two Feathers and held the axe in both hands, away from his body about a foot from the native’s chest.

Wolfgar smiled. Two Feathers, I want you to have this gift.

Although Two Feathers did not understand the words, he knew the intent, and smiled at Wolfgar, and then nodded to Rothgar. Two Feathers accepted the axe.

Two Feathers said, You have my thanks, Wolfgar.

Rothgar watched this and decided that if a gift was given to Two Feathers, he had better give something to Chogan. Otherwise the native would surely resent it.

Not willing to give up his axe, Rothgar took his knife and sheath that he kept slung over his shoulder and attached to his belt, and went to Chogan.

In a growling voice, Rothgar said, Here, take this.

Chogan took the gift from Rothgar. Then a smile lit up his features. Gratitude shone in the native’s eyes.

Wolfgar said, That was well done, Rothgar. You won’t regret it.

After resting, they gathered up the tools and items salvaged from the wreck, and went back to the camp, where Stig Hansson had everyone busy working on the shelter.

You make progress, Wolfgar said to Hansson.

"Yes, it’s not much, but it’s better than sleeping out in the open. The fools complain a lot, and will not follow my orders! You left me in charge!"

Regin approached. He gave Hansson a sour look, and then asked Wolfgar, "What of the Raven?"

Wolfgar said, We got what we could, but we had to stop. There’s still more iron aboard her, and we should go back and get what we can, when it’s calm. There’s still a stiff wind from the east. Made the diving too hard to continue.

The day wore on, and the natives remained. Then, in the late afternoon, Two Feathers decided to go back to the village. He called Chogan aside.

We’d better go back. By now Mankato and Silent Owl should be holding the council. They need to know that the Swanukken pose no threat to us, and have even given us gifts. I think the gifts alone will awe them. The metal is as sharp as flint, yet sturdier than stone and stronger than copper. No one has ever seen anything like this. Besides, Silent Owl will need our support against Dark Wolf and Raven. I don’t have to tell you what they’ll want.

They’ll want to kill these people. Chogan said.

Two Feathers agreed, I think the same. To them, any outsider is an enemy.

Two Feather’s tribe, or manta as they called it, was comprised of several hundred tribal members, divided into three villages or clans. The Turtle clan was the preeminent, and was the recognized leader, followed in status by the Wolf clan and Turkey clan. Other native peoples referred to them as the people near the ocean. Mankato was sachem, or leader of the Turtle clan, and the tribal council consisted of three men, the sachems of each clan. The priests were advisors to the council, and no decisions were made without their suggestions and approval. Mankato was the recognized leader and as sachem led the entire tribe, and performed the duties of diplomat, arbiter of disputes, justice, and social rites. He held his position with the blessing of the people, but the people could remove him from power at any time. If they deemed their ruler a tyrant or an incompetent, the people would simply leave and join another tribe, leaving a despot to lead no one. Mankato, chief of the Lenni Lenape, was an extremely competent ruler who felt the pulse of his people. After carefully listening to the clan sachems and priests, Mankato would reserve any decision-making until he spoke individually to many other tribal members. A good listener, he thus retained his position and respect.

At the Turtle clan longhouse, Silent Owl had called the council, and the sachems from the other clans came, as well as the priests and other tribal elders. At the central fire sat Mankato, and on his right sat Silent Owl, powerful shaman, seer, and dream interpreter. On Mankato’s left sat Grey Hair, sachem of the Wolf clan, and to the left of Grey Hair sat Ehane, sachem of the Turkey clan.

Also present were Gray Wolf, the Turtle clan’s healer shaman, and young Raven, a dream shaman, expected to one day replace Silent Owl. Here sat the power of the Lenni Lenape, the original people, and the people from which all tribes had sprung. The Lenni Lenape, renowned as the grandfathers of all peoples everywhere. The Lenni Lenape, feared and respected by their enemies.

Mankato spoke. I welcome all of you to this council. I welcome Grey Hair of the Wolf clan, and Ehane of the Turkey clan. I welcome the shamans and guests, and I thank you for attending. I called this council because Silent Owl has learned something that affects all of us, and decisions have to be made concerning this new development in our lives. What Silent Owl has learned concerns the very thing that he predicted. All of you know of Silent Owl’s prediction about the Swanukken. All know that Silent Owl said the day would soon be upon us, when they arrive on our shores. I am here to tell you that this thing has come to pass. The Swanukken are here.

There was a loud murmur from the people, excited with Mankato’s words. After a time the voices quieted down and Mankato continued, Silent Owl will now speak of this, for you should hear from him how he knows this to be true.

The longhouse was silent and Silent Owl stood so all could hear him speak. The dream shaman began, The words of our sachem Mankato are true. The Swanukken are here. Eleven of them, men and women, are east of here at the beaches where our women gather clams and shellfish. How do I know this? The warrior Two Feathers was hunting and killed a fine deer. He brought what he could carry back to the village, and returned to the place of the kill to retrieve the remainder. After the storm came, Two Feathers decided to go to the seashore, because he was not far away from there, and he wanted to see what might have washed up on shore. It was there that he saw the Swanukken camped. In the surf was something that Two Feathers described as the remains of a giant canoe, which is how the Swanukken must have traveled here. When Two Feathers returned here to tell me what he saw, I sent he and Chogan back to the beaches to talk to these Swanukken and see why they are here, and to give them food, because they looked like they were hungry. It is our way to give comfort to guests, and I wanted to see if the Swanukken are friendly or hostile. I expect Two Feathers and Chogan to return soon and tell us what they have found. Then we can decide what to do about this.

The warrior chief Dark Wolf stood and waited to be recognized, for he wished to speak. Mankato said, Dark Wolf, you wish to address the council?

I do Dark Wolf said.

Proceed.

Silent Owl predicted the coming of the Swanukken, Dark Wolf began. To have the Great Spirit speak to him and tell him this is proof of his power. There can be no doubt that Silent Owl is a great shaman. But now that they are here, these Swanukken, and they invade our shore, how does that make them any different from our enemies to the north and west who invade us and take our women and make war on us when they see fit to do so? Why should we not think that there are many more Swanukken following those who are already here? I think that we should kill the Swanukken and bury them in the sand by the beaches, and forget about them. They will be a curse on our people. Why should they be considered guests? Let us take warriors from the three clans and get rid of them. Let us kill them now! They are invaders! Dark Wolf sat down, because he had spoken his opinion.

Gray Wolf stood. Gray Wolf was a priest of the Turtle clan and master of the healing arts. His knowledge of the natural world and remedies and plants was unsurpassed, and he did his best to maintain the health of the tribe. He was highly regarded for his successes with the sick and injured.

Mankato said, Our shaman and healer Gray Wolf wishes to speak.

Gray Wolf said, Our war chief Dark Wolf speaks as we should expect, because it is his duty to protect the tribe. And if we decide to do as he suggests, his proven bravery and courage will quickly dispatch these Swanukken.

Dark Wolf lowered his eyes, acknowledging the compliment.

Gray Wolf continued, "But perhaps these Swanukken are friendly and not hostile. Maybe we can learn from them, because they are salt-water people and come from somewhere far away. I feel we should wait for Two Feathers and Chogan to return and ask them what they think, because they are the ones who went to talk to these Swanukken. But if they do not return, or some misfortune befalls them, then I agree with Dark Wolf, and the Swanukken should be killed

and buried by the sea." Gray Wolf let his words rest on the assembly. Satisfied, he sat down.

Raven the young dream shaman stood. He patiently waited for the chief to recognize him.

Our shaman Raven wishes to speak, Mankato said.

Before Raven could begin, there was commotion at the entrance to the lodge. As the council members and the assembly watched, Two Feathers and Chogan entered. Raven was visibly displeased by this interruption, because he agreed with Dark Wolf, and wanted the council to know his thoughts.

Two Feathers came forward to the council fire, and waited for Mankato to recognize him.

Raven? Mankato asked. Do you wish to speak?

Although he could not completely hide his bitterness, Raven said, Not now. I think we should hear what Two Feathers and Chogan have to say.

Mankato eyed the tool that Two Feathers held in his hand. It had a handle like other tools he was familiar with, but the head of the tool, or weapon, reflected the firelight. It looked like an axe, but it was different from a stone or flint tool.

Mankato now addressed Two Feathers, Silent Owl sent you to contact the Swanukken. What did you learn?

Chogan and I found the Swanukken to be friendly. They were hungry, and we gave them food. They were grateful, and gave us gifts in return. Their leader, who calls himself Wolfgar, gave me this axe with a strange type of metal, harder than copper yet sharp like flint.

Two Feathers handed the axe to Ehane, who examined it carefully before handing it to Grey Hair, who passed it on after he too, closely inspected this thing.

Two Feathers continued, Another of the Swanukken gave Chogan a knife made of the same kind of metal.

Chogan handed the knife to Ehane, and he scrutinized it, and then passed it

on.

So these Swanukken came bearing gifts? Mankato asked.

Yes. Although they do not have much, they gave us gifts. They came from the sea in a giant canoe that was destroyed by the storm. We swam out to this canoe and retrieved more tools made from the same metal.

The Swanukken cannot leave if their canoe is destroyed then.

I don’t believe that’s possible, seeing what was left of it, said Two Feathers.

Tell me more about these Swanukken, Mankato said.

They dress in a material I have never seen before. It is nothing like deerskin or any animal skin I’ve ever seen. The men have thick hair on their faces. Their skin is very pale, and some of them have hair that is nearly white, although they are not old. Some of them have blue eyes, and they speak an unintelligible tongue. They quickly built themselves a shelter after moving inland where there was a fresh water supply. They were cautious, but were friendly, and gave us gifts. Their leader attempted to understand my words, and repeated them when I spoke to him. There are seven men and four women.

Mankato said, Chogan, what do you think?

They are very strange, these Swanukken, but I feel they mean us no harm, and seem friendly enough. But they are men and nothing different, other than their dress and appearance. When we brought them food, they ate it like they were starving, and by the look of them, they might have been. I think we should get to know these Swanukken and learn from them, and learn how they use the tools we gathered from their wrecked canoe. I did not feel threatened by them, and they laughed with us. I think Two Feathers and I should go back to them and bring them here to the village. Then you can see for yourselves what Two Feathers and I already know.

When Chogan was done speaking, Two Feathers said, There was one other thing I noticed about them, at least about their leader.

What was that? Mankato asked.

It seems that he reveres the crow as we do.

In the legend of the Lenape peoples, it was believed that the creator sent a crow to bring seeds of corn to the first people, that they would survive and always have food. And so they planted the seed and cultivated their fields, and were sustained by this bounty from the Great Spirit. For this reason the Lenape revered the crow, and as a result, the raspy, cawing black bird was never harmed. Of all the creatures, the people allowed only the crow to eat corn from the fields.

How do you know this?

Two crows seemed to follow the Swanukken leader, almost as if they were familiar to him. I know how that sounds, but Chogan saw it too. When the Swanukken saw that I noticed this, he smiled and pointed to them, then to the sun and then to his heart. From his look I sensed that the birds might be sacred to him.

Don’t forget the markings and tattoos, Chogan said.

Tell them, Chogan, Two Feathers said.

The tattoos our warriors mark on the forehead, and the tattoos we have on our bodies are similar to the markings these Swanukken have.

Incredulous, Raven asked, They have the spirit markings of our people?

Not exactly the same, but their similarities are striking, Two Feathers answered.

His voice tinged with doubt, Raven said, We must invite these Swanukken here to our village and see this thing for ourselves.

Mankato said, "What says the council? Do we invite the Swanukken here?

One by one the sachems, priests and warriors answered in the affirmative.

Then it is decided, Mankato said. Two Feathers and Chogan will return to the Swanukken and ask them to come here. If all of us rush to see them, they may react and think we’re a war party out to destroy them. That’s something we don’t want to happen.

Mankato addressed himself to Two Feathers and Chogan, Are you willing to return and ask them to come here?

Both warriors replied, Yes.

Then go to them, and bring them back with you, said Mankato. In the meantime we’ll talk about this and decide where they’ll stay while they visit us.

Mankato gave Two Feathers and Chogan their leave. On his way out of the longhouse, Two Feathers spotted his wife White Bird and he nodded to her, and she smiled at him. Chogan was thrilled to see Blue Fox, seated beside White Bird. Blue Fox looked at him with respect, and smiled at him with interest. He nodded to her and he looked longingly at her for a moment, and she could not help but notice this. The look she gave Chogan before she looked down set his heart beating as if it would burst from his chest. Silent Owl often said a woman could say endless words with just one glance. Chogan suddenly knew it to be true. Because he knew now that he loved Blue Fox.

At dawn on the next day, Two Feathers and Chogan made their way back to the Swanukken camp. When they arrived there, they could see that much progress had been made on the shelter, and the Swanukken had gathered shellfish and snared birds, and were cooking. Surely these people knew how to care for themselves, these travelers from across the great salt sea.

Wolfgar smiled when he saw Two Feathers and Chogan come into view, and he went to meet them. It was obvious that Two Feathers had something important to say, but the inability to communicate burdened him. The natives came into the camp, and Two Feathers sat on a log and took a long stick, and at his feet brushed the sand clean and even. Then he drew a line in the sand. Looking to see ifWolfgar understood he pointed the stick to the line in the sand and then to the beach. Wolfgar held his palm up for the stick, and Two Feathers gave the stick to him. Wolfgar drew a straight line with a half moon under it, pointed the stick at the mark in the sand, and pointed to the shipwreck. Two Feathers nodded excitedly for he knew that Wolfgar understood.

What is it? Rothgar asked.

He draws a map, I think, Wolfgar said as he returned the stick to Two Feathers. Next, Two Feathers drew lines in the sand perpendicular to the line designating the beach, eleven of them. He then pointed the stick at each of the Icelanders. Wolfgar nodded that he understood. Then Two Feathers drew a circle away from the line, and drew many lines and pointed to himself and Chogan.

Wolfgar told the onlookers, He draws a picture of his village and the people there.

Two Feathers then drew a line between the two places and held his hand out from his body, and brought it to his chest, and repeated this sign. He tapped Wolfgar on the chest, and repeated the sign again.

I think he wants us to come to his village, Wolfgar said.

Wolfgar then pointed to himself and the other Icelanders and pointed to the west, and gave a questioning look. Two Feathers excitedly nodded and smiled, and gave the same sign back to Wolfgar.

It seems we’ve been invited to go to their village. And I see no reason to refuse. For all we know, refusing may be a grave insult, so I think it’s best that we go with them.

By now all had gathered around Two Feathers and Wolfgar, and everyone agreed to go with the natives, although Stig Hansson grumbled about it.

How can you be so sure we are not walking into a trap? Stig said. Remember, we have women with us. What if they try something?

Would you rather we fight with them than try and make friends? Elsa asked. There might be hundreds of them watching us right now!

Worried, Stig looked this way and that, but he saw no hidden natives.

If they’re to be our friends, we have to learn to trust them, Wolfgar said. And we have no idea what might turn them from friends to enemies, so we must be very careful. We’re better off going with them. This is their land, and we’re visitors.

With that thought, the Icelanders gathered up and followed the natives out of the camp. With one last look back, Wolfgar followed.

After miles of walking the west trail, they came to the vicinity of the village. Natives lined the path to observe these strange newcomers. None had ever seen white men before, and they stood in awe as they beheld the light skinned Icelanders, marveling that the hair on some of them looked the color of corn. The facial

hair on the men was something entirely different, and the children shrank back in fear.

At the front of the communal lodge stood Mankato, the sachem of the Turtle clan, and by his right side stood the shamans Silent Owl, Grey Wolf and Raven. At Mankato’s left side stood the sachems Grey Hair and Ehane, here to greet the Swanukken.

In the society of the Lenni Lenape, it was considered good manners to conduct business with guests only after they were given food and rest, and shown hospitality. Therefore the newcomers would be questioned later.

Wolfgar saw an orderly and clean village, located beside a huge field as far as he could see, with a type of plant that stood higher than a man, a plant standing in orderly rows like the cultivated fields in Iceland or Norway. There were many buildings and longhouses, made of wood products, with woven mats for sides. The mouth-watering aromas from the cooking fires hung in the air and the people looked cheerful and content, and healthy. They did not look hostile nor did Wolfgar feel threatened, except for the scowl on the face of one of the men standing with the group at the front of the longhouse. Later he would learn the identity of this native; the war chief called Dark Wolf.

Two Feathers spoke to the man who appeared to be the leader; a strong looking and intelligent-eyed native, dressed in fine deerhide garments decorated with colored shells and beads. Wolfgar noticed that the older men grew their hair long, and it fell over their shoulders, while the younger men wore their hair in a line over the top of their heads, with the head shorn of hair on either side. Many of these natives bore the marks of the tattoo, on their faces, foreheads, arms and legs.

The gathered people murmured as they studied the Swanukken, when Wolfgar surmised that Two Feathers was making an introduction to the native chief. Not knowing how to respond, Wolfgar bowed his head, keeping eye contact with the man. The hint of a smile flickered on the chief’s face.

Mankato nodded then, and turned and entered the longhouse, followed by the rest of the Lenape. Two Feathers then bade the guests to enter. When inside the huge structure, which was very similar in size to a European longhouse, Two Feathers showed Wolfgar where he and his people could rest. Along the walls were raised sleeping platforms, which looked as though they were recently constructed, for the wood was freshly cut. It was evident the visitors were being given accommodations. Although there were many natives inside the longhouse, they kept their distance and discretely watched the newcomers. When Two Feathers was satisfied that Wolfgar and his people were shown their places, he bid Wolfgar and the rest of the Viking men to accompany him to the central fire, where the chiefs sat awaiting them. By sounds and gestures, White Bird and Blue Fox made it clear to the Viking women that they remain behind, and although they did not understand the words, the new women seemed to know their intent.

Rather than speak to Wolfgar and his men, the chief took out what appeared to be an object made of stone or clay. It was long and curved on the very end, where it was larger. From a small pouch hanging from his shoulder the chief took out something resembling a type of grass and pinched this into the end of the object. He then took a reed and put it in the fire, which flared up on the end. When this happened, the chief quickly put the fiery end of the reed into the end of the clay object and put the other end to his mouth. At once smoke came from the end of the object, and as it wafted across the area, Wolfgar detected a pleasing aroma. With great solemnity this object was passed to him, and Wolfgar puffed on it as the natives had, and the intake of the tobacco was harsh on his lungs, and he coughed. This was viewed by some of the natives as amusing, although they only smiled, for to laugh outright at a guest was considered bad manners. Later he would learn this object was called a pipe. Wolfgar noticed a pleasant feeling after smoking for the first time, and he passed the pipe to Rothgar seated next to him.

After this ritual was completed, the women who hovered close by brought food to the men, and it was delicious. They were given fish, dried venison, fresh rabbit meat, berries, and a type of flat bread similar to the bread they were accustomed to but different in taste. In wooden bowls the natives served them cooked beans and another dish made from corn. Later, Wolfgar would learn that this corn was the same crop growing in the fields surrounding the village, and it accounted for nearly half of the tribe’s sustenance.

After eating their fill, the guests were invited to return to their sleeping places to rest. However, the hour was early, and the newcomers were free to wander about the village if they chose to do so.

As Two Feathers had taken the first big buck deer of the season, the tribe was to honor the spirit of the deer that night by the communal fire located in the center of the village. Seven large wooden posts driven into the ground formed a circle around the huge fire pit. The posts were the height of a man, and on the tops of the posts were carved images that looked like faces, and Wolfgar guessed that they may be gods or spirits worshipped by these native people.

While Wolfgar and the Vikings became acquainted with their hosts in the longhouse, other natives had gone to Two Feather’s kill and carried it to the vil-

lage. When they returned, they cut the deer’s large antlered head from the shoulders of the carcass, and placed it on a wooden stand.

The Lenni Lenape held that all creatures were sacred, and it was a terrible sin to waste any part of an animal. When a hunter killed an animal, the spirit of that animal was given an apology with the utmost sincerity. In the case of a deer, as with any other creature, not a single part of the animal was wasted. The brains were used to soften hides. The suet was used for cooking, and even the hoofs were used to make glue. The antlers and bones provided material for tools, the sinews and gut were used for cord, the flesh of the beast eaten and the hides used for clothing.

All living things were watched over by the spirits, and the spirit must be treated with respect to insure that they would remain in the world and not go away. Even if a plant were taken or a tree cut down, the Lenape would pray to the spirit of this particular living object and thank it for providing sustenance to the people.

In the evening the fires were stoked and the deer head was placed into the fire facing east, with the horns intact on the head. Normally the antlers of a deer were used for various tools, but in this case they would be burned to honor the deer’s spirit. The flesh from this particular deer was not allowed to be eaten until the ritual was performed, and as the flames consumed the deer head the people danced around the fire, chanting as they did so. Rattles made from terrapin shells filled with stones were shaken to keep the beat with the drums made of animal hide, and the people danced and sang to the spirits. Thus the Lenni Lenape people danced around the fire and around the sacred posts, honoring the spirit of the white tailed deer. Wolfgar and his people sat a short distance away and observed, listening to the rhythmic beat of the drums and the singing, marveling at the harmonious voices. Surely the gods must hear these rites, Wolfgar thought. He did not remember hearing anything so beautiful in his life.

When the natives completed their singing and dancing, and the deer head was completely consumed by the flames, the natives roasted the venison from the kill. They distributed portions of the meat to everyone present, including Wolfgar and his people. Feeling accepted by the Lenape, he realized he must learn their tongue and promised himself to concentrate all of his energies to do so.

When the festivities were over, the natives drifted away. Two Feathers led the Icelanders to the main lodge, to their sleeping places.

On the morning after the deer ritual, Two Feathers tapped Wolfgar on the foot. Wolfgar woke with a start, disoriented for a moment.

Wolfgar? the native said.

Yes, Two Feathers?

The native gestured toward the fireplace where sat the members of the tribal council.

Rothgar, wake up, Wolfgar said. Rothgar opened his eyes, yawned and stretched, and sat up.

What is it? he asked.

I think they want to talk to us.

Two Feathers led them to the fireplace, where Mankato was in conversation with the assembled natives.

Mankato said, Two Feathers, if these Swanukken are to stay in this land, I would much rather have them nearby where we can observe them. We know nothing about them. The tribal elders agree. One of us must learn the tongue of these salt water people, and we have chosen you for this task.

I accept this task, Two Feathers said. There’s no doubt that their leader is trying to learn our tongue.

Good. I have many questions, Mankato said. For now, we’ve decided to build the Swanukken a wigwam large enough to support their needs. We’ll construct it near your own wigwam, so they’re close to you. If you can make this leader of the Swanukken understand this, let him know what we’ve decided.

I’ll try.

Another thing, Mankato continued, "seeing these Swanukken are here they will be expected to work as all of us do and help provide for the winter months. I won’t have them ranging about the countryside. I want to know where they are and what they’re doing at all times. As to their leader, when he begins to understand our tongue, Silent Owl must speak with him, so we might have answers to »

our many questions.

Mankato then stood, signaling that the meeting was over, and the council members dispersed, and went out of the longhouse. Two Feathers bid Wolfgar to follow him, and they went outside. Two Feathers stopped outside a wigwam, and pointed to it. Then he pointed to himself. He picked up a stick from the ground and walked some distance from his wigwam.

Wolfgar watched Two Feathers draw a huge rectangle on the ground with the stick. Again he pointed to himself and to his wigwam. When he pointed to Wolfgar, and then at the marks on the ground, Wolfgar understood.

Wolfgar was amazed at what happened next. It seemed that the entire village was turning out to help construct a new wigwam.

Roald Einarsson, Elsa’s husband asked, Captain Wolfgar, can you tell us what’s going on? The Icelanders gathered around to listen.

It appears as though they want us to stay here, and intend to build us a shelter like the other ones you see around you. It looks like many of them are willing to help. Let’s show these people we’re not afraid to work.

Two Feathers led the Viking men into the woods, and selected many long sapling trees to cut. He took great pleasure in using the gift hatchet from Wolfgar, and stripped the trees so the long poles remained. Soon they had a substantial cache of lodge poles. They carried these poles back to the village at the site selected. Others had already gathered needed materials for constructing the wigwam. Here, they bent the lodge poles from the edges to a center ridgepole, and joined them together with root and sinew. The framework was large enough where eleven people could comfortably dwell inside of the structure when completed.

Regin Svensson the woodworker marveled at the speed at which the Lenape worked. The event took on the manner of a festival, and it seemed that each tribal member brought something to offer the newcomers. Some brought sheets of bark used for siding the structure, as well as animal skins and woven reed mats. There would be a central fireplace, with a smoke hole in the roof for ventilation. The Icelanders worked hard alongside the Lenape, and became acquainted in this manner, and despite the language barrier there was much laughing and joking. Both peoples understood the common language of hard work.

The dream shaman Silent Owl discreetly observed the Swanukken chief. During the day, the Swanukken placed sticks in the ground and studied the shadow cast from the sun. At night he saw the Swanukken leader gaze at the star that never moved, while holding a knotted string of root to the heavens.

Silent Owl knew well of this star, and of the movements of the other stars, and how they reflected the seasons here on the earth. He knew also of the wandering stars, the mysterious lights that moved unlike the fixed stars. This, of course, was the realm of the Great Spirit, who occasionally gave insight to men, so they might know a little more than they knew before. Silent Owl realized that these Swanukken must know vast information that the Lenape did not know. How was it possible to travel across the great salt sea? The Swanukken knew how to do this. Where did the metal come from on the tools and weapons they brought with them? Silent Owl hoped to learn these things from the Swanukken chief, when that one learned the Lenape tongue.

Silent Owl went back to his wigwam where he could think about these matters. His wigwam was not just a wigwam, but also a temple for his priesthood. Outside of the wigwam were carvings of the likenesses of certain spirits, but the image of the spirit of Okeus, the spirit of vengeance, remained inside the wigwam. The Lenape