Asculf took Hywel to one side and pointed to the lie of the land. “Here, the men of Kent will form up in four lines. Over there, the Vikings will charge up the slope. Many will detach to swarm against our front line, but most will continue their ascent past our ranks to encircle our force and attack from behind by surprise.”
“Only, for you it will not be a surprise.”
“Nay, my friend. The fourth row, at my command, will wheel around and form a shield wall. That’s where you and your hundred men come in.”
“My hundred men?” Hywel frowned and stared at his lord, puzzled.
Asculf laughed at his amazement. “Ay. You will choose a hundred of our best and place them to the rear of King Egbert’s men so that they seem to be mere reserves awaiting action at his command. Instead, when the Vikings ass
