Rafal’s eyes narrowed. “What is it, exactly, you are saying, Torben?”
“I will soon attack Cathal with King Albric’s help.”
Again, the clan began muttering in disbelief.
“Why would the king of England help you?” someone asked.
“Because he has been aggrieved by Cathal as well. Cathal did violence upon his daughter. Such a thing stokes the fire of a man to action, be he Viking or Englishman. And Albric is now my father-in-law. He is a just man, as are we. He would see the tyranny of Cathal end, just as we would. Which is why he has pledged me his aid. Here is Albric’s royal seal. He has given it to me as a token to prove he will join in the battle.” I pulled the seal from the inside pocket of my tunic, then held it out.
Rafal stepped closer to take it from my hand. He examined it, flippi
