As they approached the borders of Viking-controlled territory, Theowulf reined in his horse and turned to Rurik.
"My thanks," he said sincerely. "It's rare to find a man among your kind who keeps his word. In these days, honesty is the truest treasure."
Rurik yawned, the reins loose in his hands. "A good reputation is worth more than gold. I've spent half a lifetime building mine—I won't ruin it over a few cartloads of plunder."
He glanced southward, toward the undulating hills beyond the river. "You're abandoning the lands your family has held for generations. Where will you go now?"
Theowulf's expression was calm but weary. "I'll see what remains. With Tamworth fallen and the royal house in ashes, there'll be empty manors enough. Perhaps I'll find one still standing."
After parting ways, Rurik led his men back north to Tamworth to report.
