Novgorod, 1031
The port teemed with activity, and as Harald stepped ashore, he was assailed by a score or more different tongues. Traders from the far south and east, men with sallow skins and others, wild men who paraded themselves in thick padded coats made from reindeer skins. At these, Harald stopped and stared whilst Rognvald conversed with a swarthy group close to the quayside.
“We are in luck,” said Rognvald, drawing close. “My son is close and I"ve paid some Poles to ride down towards Novgorod and give news of our arrival.” He leaned closer, “Are you well, Harald?”
“These men, in their coats, I"ve seen their like before. At Stiklestad.”
“Ah, you mean Thore Hund? Aye, he wore a coat much the same. It is said they are imbued with magic, to make them weapon proof.”
“It was he who
