" I hear the arrow."
Magnus jumped down from the rock while cleaning his gear from the dust. Then he threw his sword to one of his men, signaling them to start a fire which would signal the other team.
" As expected from our children. They have persuaded the lord with a single degree."
Freyja smiled with a gentle face, walking beside him while Magnus agreed with her words. He couldn't hide his smug face before his men, showing how proud he was in the end because they didn't need to shed blood.
" It was given that they could accomplish this task but I am glad they did it without fail since Essex and Sussex would definitely require a war."
Magnus heard this territory wasn't in good shape and it was under royal rule, so he suspected they would surrender peacefully but that didn't mean their neighbors would give up that easily. They were both powerful domains with great armies and people.
Especially Essex had the strongest fleet in the entire country. Even those from Frank had to fear their fleet, thinking twice about invasion since they could sink the best warriors in the ocean.
Fortunately, their knights and soldiers were numbered, so Magnus was confident enough to attack them.
" Don't think much. Your head is going to be white at this rate. Besides, look at these folds. Some would say you are an elder from our town."
The Vikings laughed at Freyja's remark as Magnus scratched his head with a soft smile. He then switched back to his serious face almost instantly, reminding his men to be careful. Twice careful was needed for men like them.
Meanwhile near the rear side of Guildford.
" That is the sound of the special arrow. It appears that Guildford has surrendered to us, my lord."
The knight knelt in front of Uther whilst he was on his horse with his helmet. He nodded at the knights, drawing his sword from its scabbard.
" My men, the lord has surrendered to us. We shall show our grace to their people and teach how we interact as true servants of God."
The knights roared at his command, making their way to the city to unite with their comrades. They raised their flags on their way, telling others who they were as they raised their heads with pride.
The hoofs of the iron cavalry woke the gentle breeze of the hills, creating a ruckus in the city. The people cried out with surprise, gasping at the sight of the powerful knights and warriors.
" We welcome you to our city."
Uther nodded at the guards, raising their flags with them while marching in the city center with Magnus who was leading his men.
The curious civilians came out from their homes, not knowing they were under the order of the new lord. The children's eyes glistened with curiosity and happiness for they never saw valiant men like them.
" I am lord of Kent. From now on I will occupy your city. You shall not be harmed. You shall not be subjugated.
All your debts and poverty will be cleared under my name and royal degree. There will be no pheasants and slaves in this area for my name carries the will of Justice and God."
The civilians knelt on the ground when they saw their lord hand over his sword to signify his intent. Some of them prayed for peace, some prayed for bliss and some prayed for wealth.
" You are a brave lord."
Magnus who heard the words of Halfdan, tapped the shoulder of the lord. He pulled out his hunting dagger from his back and gave it to him.
" Warriors go to Valhalla in our home. I believe you will go to a similar land, my friend.
Fear not, I will protect your people along with my men and comrades."
The awe-bringing Vikings hit their chests to show off their intents and promise to this land.
" I certainly hope so, great warrior. My people deserve rest."
Magnus nodded at his remark, gesturing he was there for protection. Killing wasn't an option for the good and he wouldn't kill those who surrendered.
" We have so many words to exchange."
Uther was guided by Magnus while the doctor from their force made his way to tend to the captain's injury.