Heidaby, Denmark 1018 AD
Excited voices and cheering greeted our approach to the Danish stronghold – decidedly not the reception we expected. Our curiosity aroused, we neared the gate into the city with the realisation that the hubbub did not concern the appearance of our armed force.
On horseback, Knut had set a forced pace for the warriors who made up the crews of our longships. He intended the march of a few leagues from the river across the neck of the peninsula to be swift, with a surprise arrival to counter potential opposition.
The absence of guards demonstrated this precaution served no purpose. The amazement was complete when we passed through the gates unchallenged, to behold the reason for the din. A clapping, swearing, shouting crowd – perhaps the entire population of the to
