Abbey by the Stour and Sondwic, 1012-1013 AD
Abbey by the Stour and Sondwic, 1012-1013 ADAfter the martyrdom of Archbishop Aelfheah, having received the tribute agreed, the Viking host dispersed as widely as it had been collected except for the forty-five ships that followed Thorkell to Greenwich. Watching the vast array of Eilaf’s colourful sails fill with wind and navigate away from Kent, Folcwin offered up prayers of gratitude. Under no illusion that the respite would be brief, he had to decide on his future. Still an esteemed ealdorman, his position in Kent was secure, but, as ever, depended on a king whom he despised and did not wish to serve. He respected Thorkell and loved Aelfwynn but did not feel moved to unite with them as matters stood. Managing his estates, in the hope of a go
