I was beginning to develop a routine at this point. During the day, with my riding practice, I was finally able to start unsheathing the sword. I was too afraid to try swinging it just yet because I didn't want to decapitate my beloved pony. I had decided to name him Enbarr after the horse from Celtic myth, hoping that might bring him some speed and good luck.

Getting ready for my riding exercises, I was fastening my boots when I heard a noise behind me in the tent. Ragnar's ...