Winchester, Wessex, A.D. 915
The first decade of the tenth century was radiant and felicitous for Hywel and Elen. Their country was at peace and in 908 they had their firstborn son, Owain. The infant was Hywel’s pride and joy and Elen’s darling. The parents were delighted when, in 915, Elen became pregnant again. Her gravidity coincided with war. For the first time in his life, Hywel would seriously wield a sword. His neighbouring king, Arthfael ap Hywel of Gwent called for aid and Hywel responded by marching an army into South-East Wales.
A large Viking fleet based on the Continent under the command of Óttarr and Hróaldr ravaged Gwent as far inland as Archenfield, capturing a bishop named Cyfeiliog. The Vikings took the bishop in Archenfield, which in his diocese was technically over
