“The Norse believe that all men are warriors,” the woman said.
“I am not Norse,” Bradan said and waited for the woman to give a scornful remark and leave.
Placing her hand inside the crook of Bradan's elbow, the woman guided him away from the main table to a small bench far from the fire. “I know, Bradan. I am Astrid.”
“It is a good name.” Bradan hid his surprise behind a sober face.
“Sometimes, I am known as Revna, but I prefer Astrid. I have something to show you, Bradan the Wanderer.” A strange light seemed to come from Astrid's eyes. Attractive eyes, Bradan noticed without effort, they were blue and lively, with a rare depth of intelligence.
Bradan smiled. “I am Melcorka's man,” he said. “Perhaps you had better invite her along as well?”
“What I have to show you would not interes
