The battle enters its final stage and it will be a bloody affair. There is no love lost between the Saxons and the Vikings. This will be their greatest victory over their ancient enemies. Having suffered a slaughter at Fulford Gate, when the Vikings felt no restraint even when they had won their victory, the Saxons feel no compunction to hold back themselves. Perhaps it is for this reason that Coenred sends his young shield-bearer to fetch the huscarls’ horses as this duty will spare him seeing the butchering of men that is to come.

Below is a PDF file of the chapter under discussion. Please, click on the link and enjoy.