Helgi

The jarl's oar has a handprint worn deep into just one side. I wondered if three winters of rowing would do that to me too, so today I touched it in secret.

• TorketAnyone who touches another man's oar gets dunked once, to cure the habit.
  HelgiI won't do it again. But helmsman, your oar has the same mark on it.
• BrynjaWorth touching, I'd say. Next time ask, don't sneak.

At the breathing hole no one speaks, and it scared me, but today I heard the jarl say just one word. I didn't know a person's voice could drop that low out on the ice field.

• Seidkona GrimhildIce that hears that voice doesn't hold much longer.
  HelgiIs that a good thing or a frightening thing?
• BirnaThaw your hands first. The broth's getting cold.