Erik rode back to Jorvik after leaving the presents with Helgha’s family. Her brothers had been excited to receive their gifts, and Biorn was delighted with the wine. It was rare to have wine rather than ale or mead as grapes did not grow around Jorvik. His mind was full of Helgha, though. Could he persuade his father to meet with Biorn and discuss a marriage? He determined to ask as soon as he arrived home.
Sigfried declined his son’s request. “No matter how beautiful this girl is, Erik, she is not for you. I’ve begun talks with Harald Magnusson about a marriage between you and his daughter, Dagmar. The connection will be good for us.”
Erik opened his mouth to speak, but his father held up his hand. “No, Erik. Say nothing. This girl is a ceorl. She is not of the nobility. She is beneath
