The Sundering Flood · Chapters
Chapters explained
Chapter companions for The Sundering Flood by William Morris.
Chapter 1
The Sundering Flood
The chapter introduces the Sundering Flood, a great river that divides the land, and sets the stage for the story of Osberne and Elfhild, who live on opposite sides and long to be together.
Chapter 2
Of a River Called the Sundering Flood, and of the Folk That Dwelt Thereby
The chapter introduces the Sundering Flood, a mighty river that flows south to the sea, with a great city at its mouth. It describes the river's tidal reach, its role in trade and travel, and the contrasting perspectives of the city-dwellers who see it as a uniter versus the truth of its name. Upstream, the river becomes impassable, splitting the land into east and west sides, where the dalesfolk can only communicate across the chasm on feast days, never touching. The chapter sets the stage for the isolated communities on either bank.
Chapter 3
Of Wethermel and the Child Osberne
This chapter introduces the lonely stead of Wethermel, its history of ill-luck, and the young boy Osberne who lives there with his grandparents and the old carline Bridget. Despite warnings and dangers—the Sundering Flood, wolves, and the Dwarf-kin—Osberne's bold spirit leads him into perilous adventures, including a night spent with a Dwarf who prophesies his future as a champion and gives him a magical knife.
Chapter 4
Wolves Harry the Flock
Osberne, now past twelve years old, helps the shepherd John tend the sheep. After wolves attack the flock, killing several sheep, the goodman and John confront the wolves but flee in fear. Osberne mocks their cowardice with a song, showing early signs of courage and wit.
Chapter 5
Surly John Falls Out with the Goodman
Surly John announces his departure from Wethermel, citing dislike of the werewolves, dwarfs, and the growing influence of Osberne. After receiving his hire, he attacks the goodman but is tripped by Osberne and forced to leave in shame. The goodman, sensing Osberne's readiness, allows him to drive the sheep up the bent alone, while he himself slips away to avoid interfering.
Chapter 6
Osberne Slays the Wolves
Osberne returns home after a day of shepherding, having recovered lost sheep and slain three wolves. He presents their severed heads to his family, who celebrate his bravery.
Chapter 7
VI: They Fare to the Cloven Mote
On Yule morning, Osberne travels with his grandparents to the Cloven Mote for Christmas mass. Along the way, he sees Hartshaw Knolls and feels a premonition about the folk there. At the Mote, his grandmother proudly recounts his wolf-slaying deed, and a stave is sung mocking Surly John. Osberne is paired with a young damsel for the feast, shares sweet speech and a kiss, and the day ends with the parting ceremony.
Chapter 8
VII: Of a Newcomer, and His Gift to Osberne
In spring, Osberne must tend sheep rather than seek the maiden across the Flood. While shepherding, he meets a mysterious, well-armed stranger named Steelhead, who helps gather the scattered flock and gives Osberne a magical bow and three arrows, along with cryptic advice about his destiny by the Sundering Flood.
Chapter 9
VIII: The Goodman Gets a New Hired Man
Osberne returns to Wethermel to find that the goodman has hired a new man named Stephen, a tall, flaxen-haired stranger who claims to have returned from Eastcheaping after his wife died in childbirth. Stephen, a heavy eater, strikes a bargain with the goodman for modest wages but ample food, earning the nickname Stephen the Eater. When Osberne shows his new bow, Stephen admires it and suggests the lad become the household's hunter. Osberne takes up the role, shooting game with unerring accuracy, and begins to follow Steelhead's advice by exploring along the Sundering Flood upstream.
Chapter 10
IX: The Bight of the Cloven Knoll
In mid-April, while his grandfather is away on business, Osberne follows Stephen's advice to explore the riverside. He discovers a cave in the cliff face at the Bight of the Cloven Knoll, where he meets a young maiden named Elfhild. They converse across the narrow but treacherous water, sharing their ages, families, and stories. Elfhild demonstrates her magical ability to summon and dance with sheep using her pipe, delighting Osberne. They part with a promise to meet again.
Chapter 11
X: Osberne and Elfhild Hold Converse Together
Osberne and Elfhild meet across the Sundering Flood and share stories of their secret gifts from the cave-folk: Elfhild's pipe, necklace, and healing, and Osberne's dwarf-wrought whittle. They exchange songs and words of affection, promising to meet again in three days, while Osberne reflects on Steelhead's counsel and Stephen the Eater's friendship.
Chapter 12
XI: Osberne Shoots a Gift Across the Flood
Osberne returns to the Bight of the Cloven Knoll wearing his red-scarlet raiment and carrying his bow. He meets Elfhild, who has adorned herself with a necklace and flower wreaths. Osberne offers her a gold penny given by his mother, but after discussion they decide to split it in half so each keeps a piece. He shoots her half across the Sundering Flood using an arrow. They exchange names for the first time—Elfhild of Hartshaw Knolls and Osberne Wulfgrim's son of Wethermel—and agree to meet again in three days. Elfhild tells him a Faery tale, and they part well pleased.
Chapter 13
XII: Of a Guest Called Waywearer
Osberne and Elfhild continue their meetings across the Sundering Flood, though sometimes they miss each other, causing Osberne great sorrow. At Wethermel, Stephen the Eater proves invaluable, teaching Osberne smithcraft and crafting gifts for Elfhild. One stormy October night, a ragged traveler named Waywearer arrives and is welcomed by Osberne, who recognizes him as his friend Steelhead. Waywearer entrusts Osberne with a sealed bundle, and the household shares a merry meal.
Chapter 14
XIII: Steelhead Gives Osberne the Sword Boardcleaver
Steelhead, disguised as Waywearer, reveals himself and presents Osberne with the legendary sword Boardcleaver. He warns the boy that the sword must only be drawn in true need, against a foe, and never in a false quarrel. Osberne, moved by Steelhead's praise, vows to live up to his expectations and receives the sword, though he doubts his strength to wield it.
Chapter 15
XIV: The Gifts of Steelhead
Steelhead blesses Osberne with a fatherly ritual, imparting new strength and might, then departs after sharing a meal. Osberne later shows the sword Boardcleaver to Elfhild, who expresses fear and sorrow at the weapon's portent. Waywearer returns the borrowed horse, now improved and shod with silver, bringing joy to Wethermel.
Chapter 16
XV: Surly John Brings a Guest to Wethermel
Surly John returns to Wethermel with a menacing stranger, Hardcastle, who insults the household and strikes Osberne. Osberne remains calm and later demonstrates his strength by twisting and straightening John's knife. Hardcastle, drunk and arrogant, is led to bed, but the goodman is troubled by foreboding dreams.
Chapter 17
XVI: Hardcastle Would Seize Wethermel
Hardcastle attempts to seize Wethermel by force, claiming the house and land as his own with his sword as his title. He offers the household the choice of thralldom or a hazelled field duel. Osberne, armed with Boardcleaver, boldly challenges him, offering three options: depart, fight, or be attacked. After a tense exchange, Hardcastle agrees to the duel, and Stephen hazels the field.
Chapter 18
XVII: The Slaying of Hardcastle
Osberne, with Stephen the Eater, faces Hardcastle in a duel in the hazel-garth at Wethermel. Osberne slays Hardcastle with Boardcleaver, then grants the goodman his lands back. They bury Hardcastle in the garth and celebrate.
Chapter 19
XVIII: Elfhild Hears of the Slaying
Osberne meets Elfhild at their trysting place and tells her he has slain a man in self-defense. Elfhild is troubled, fearing he will outgrow their friendship and seek the company of women. Osberne reassures her, and they share a tale of the sea, forgetting the river that separates them.
Chapter 20
XIX: The Winter Passes and Elfhild Tells of the Death of Her Kinswoman
Winter passes at Wethermel as the goodman improves his household with hired folk and wealth from Hardcastle's spoil. Osberne attends the midwinter Cloven Mote, paired with Gertrude, but his thoughts remain with Elfhild. Their trysts become rarer in winter but resume in spring. Elfhild reports the death of a less kind kinswoman and the arrival of a carline who teaches her lore and supports their secret friendship. Osberne expresses his growing desire to cross the river and embrace her, and Elfhild shares the carline's prophecy that they will one day meet body to body.
Chapter 21
XX: Osberne Fares to Eastcheaping and Brings Gifts for Elfhild
Osberne travels to Eastcheaping with Master Nicholas, marveling at the stone buildings, abbey, and market. He uses his earnings from hunting to buy gifts for Elfhild. At the trysting-place, he presents them to her, and she tries them on, but later weeps inexplicably after they part.
Chapter 22
XXI: Warriors from Eastcheaping Ride Into the Dale
Two years after their first meeting, Osberne and Elfhild continue to meet happily. Wethermel thrives in peace. In early May, armed riders from Eastcheaping arrive seeking help against the Baron of Deepdale's challenge. Osberne, now fifteen, volunteers to ride with them and selects six men plus Stephen the Eater to join him, while others stay to guard Wethermel. The Knight captain marvels at Osberne's story of Hardcastle's fall.
Chapter 23
XXII: Osberne Takes Leave of Elfhild
Osberne, clad in Hardcastle's armor and armed with Boardcleaver, prepares to leave Wethermel to rally the Dalesmen against the Baron of Deepdale. He meets Elfhild at their trysting-place, where she grieves at his departure. He comforts her, explaining that he must seek his fortune and perhaps find her beyond the Sundering Flood. They part with great sorrow, and Osberne hears the horn summoning the Mote.
Chapter 24
Osberne Is Chosen Captain of the Dalesmen
Osberne arrives at the Mote to find he has been nominated as captain of the Dalesmen riding to aid Eastcheaping. Despite his youth and inexperience, the assembly acclaims him, and he accepts the charge. He is sworn in, gives a rousing speech, and begins learning the craft of war from Sir Medard. The company departs for Eastcheaping, where they are lodged and equipped for battle.
Chapter 25
XXIV: A Skirmish with the Baron of Deepdale in the Marshes
Sir Medard and Osberne lead a small force from Eastcheaping to ambush the Baron of Deepdale's larger company in the marshes. Using a clever ruse with dead animals and hidden archers, they throw the Baron's men into confusion. Osberne and his Dalesmen hold the causeway, and Boardcleaver proves deadly. The Baron's host is routed, and the Eastcheapers return victorious with great spoil.
Chapter 26
Stephen Tells of an Adventure in the Camp of the Foemen
Osberne, recovering from a wound, learns from Stephen that he has infiltrated the enemy camp disguised as a minstrel and discovered that the Baron of Deepdale's bastide is lightly guarded at night. Stephen proposes a daring plan to capture the Baron, and Osberne agrees, selecting four men for the raid.
Chapter 27
XXVI: They Bring the Baron Into Eastcheaping
Osberne, Stephen, and four others, along with Steelhead, infiltrate the Great Bastide by disguising themselves and using Stephen's minstrel guise to gain entry. They capture the Baron of Deepdale while he sleeps, using Steelhead's mysterious power to keep him in a sleepwalking state, and successfully bring him back into Eastcheaping. Steelhead then departs, promising to meet Osberne again in the mountains.
Chapter 28
XXVII: They Parley from the Walls
The Baron of Deepdale, having been captured by Sir Medard and his men, awakens in Eastcheaping. Sir Medard parleys from the walls with the besieging forces, led by Sir Degore, and reveals that their lord is a captive. The Baron commands his host to depart under lenient terms, ending the siege. Osberne is introduced to the Baron, who offers him future aid.
Chapter 29
The Baron of Deepdale Makes Peace
The war concludes as the Baron of Deepdale signs a peace treaty, yielding to the Porte of Eastcheaping and paying ransom. The Dalesmen, including Osberne and Stephen the Eater, are released from service and receive gifts. Stephen is given a white ox by the Butchers' guild, which he vows never to slay. Osberne accepts only a fine armor from the spoils, refusing knighthood from Sir Medard, who pledges his friendship. The Dalesmen depart Eastcheaping amid cheers and flowers, having lost forty-two men but gained sixteen replacements.
Chapter 30
XXIX: Osberne and His Men Return to Wethermel
Osberne and his men return to Wethermel on an October evening, overcome with emotion at the sight of their home. They are greeted with joy and celebration, and a feast is held. Osberne sings a song recounting their battles and victories, bringing great cheer to all.
Chapter 31
XXX: Osberne Goes to the Trysting-Place
After the guests depart from Wethermel, Osberne hurries to the trysting-place at the Bight of the Cloven Knoll, torn between hope and fear. He finds Elfhild waiting, and they share a deeply emotional reunion after 511 days apart. Elfhild recounts a troubling encounter with a mysterious stranger who stayed at her home, raising Osberne's fears for her safety. They exchange tales and reaffirm their love before parting, with plans to meet again soon.
Chapter 32
XXXI: They Meet Through Autumn and Winter
Throughout autumn and winter, Osberne and Elfhild meet frequently at their trysting place. Elfhild asks for gifts Osberne forgot to bring, and later requests he wear his armor from the spoils of Deepdale. They playfully discuss and handle the armor. Despite the cold and harsh weather, they continue to meet. As spring arrives, their bond deepens, though Osberne's fear of losing Elfhild lingers, causing him occasional anguish that he tries to hide from her.
Chapter 33
XXXII: Foemen Among the Westdalers
In early April, Stephen the Eater brings news of raiders in the West Dale. Osberne quickly gathers the men of Wethermel and leads them to the riverbank, where they engage the alien invaders in a fierce archery duel. After initial skirmishes, the main battle shifts to the Bight of the Cloven Knoll, where Osberne fights desperately, fearing for Elfhild's safety. The Eastdalers hold their ground despite losses, and the Westdalers eventually arrive to drive the foemen away.
Chapter 34
XXXIII: Osberne Seeks Tidings of Elfhild
After the battle at the Cloven Knoll, the Eastdalers and Westdalers confer among the dead. Wulfstan of Coldburne praises the Eastdalers' aid and warns that part of the enemy host has moved down the Dale. Osberne asks which steads have been wasted, and learns of a cot with two women. The Eastdalers tend their wounded, including Stephen the Eater, and bury their slain at Shooters' Knowe.
Chapter 35
XXXIV: Osberne Sorrows for the Loss of Elfhild
After the battle, Osberne lingers alone at the Flood, grieving the disappearance of Elfhild. He stands vigil through the night, tormented by wild thoughts and sorrow, until the bleating of Elfhild's sheep brings him back to himself. He weeps bitterly, then returns to Wethermel at dawn. The next day, he learns from Wulfstan that the Westdalers won a great victory but that two women from Hartshaw Knolls are missing, deepening his despair.
Chapter 36
Osberne Seeks Counsel of Steelhead
Osberne, still sorrowful after the battle, seeks counsel from Steelhead in the dale where they first met. Steelhead advises him that he must either forget his longing for Elfhild or leave the Dale to wander the world. Osberne chooses to depart after the Midsummer Feast, planning to go alone to Eastcheaping to find Sir Medard. Steelhead gives him hope that his feet and Elfhild's may yet draw together, and promises that he will never lack hope as long as he has deeds to do.
Chapter 37
The Staves Which Osberne Taught to the Dalesmen
At the Midsummer Feast of the Cloven Mote, Osberne's demeanor improves, and he participates in the solemn rites and songs. The feast includes traditional Midsummer observances and a high mass for the fallen. The highlight is the singing of staves across the Sundering Flood between the Westdalers and Eastdalers, composed and taught by Osberne, which honor the dead and celebrate the living.
Chapter 38
XXXVII: Osberne Takes Leave of Wethermel
Osberne announces to the folk of Wethermel that he must depart the next morning, seeking a life that will eventually lead him back to the Dale. He asks for any grievances to be aired, but none are spoken. He appoints Stephen the Eater as his deputy, and they exchange a handclasp of mastership. The evening concludes with a feast, drinking toasts, and Osberne singing a song of his hope to return.
Chapter 39
XXXVIII: Osberne Parts from Stephen the Eater
Osberne departs from Wethermel on horseback, armed with Boardcleaver and the wonder-bow but leaving behind Hardcastle's Loom. He rides with Stephen the Eater to the bent, where they share a heartfelt farewell. Osberne expresses his hope to return within five years, either with Elfhild alive or with her memory, and bids Stephen to live hale and merry.
Chapter 40
XXXIX: Osberne Gets Him a New Master
Osberne rides to Eastcheaping and seeks out Sir Medard, who introduces him to Sir Godrick of Longshaw. After a series of probing questions about Godrick's character, his stance on justice, and his treatment of the poor and outlaws, Osberne decides to become his man, swearing fealty to him.
Chapter 41
XL: Osberne Rides with Sir Godrick
Osberne tarries at Eastcheaping for half a month while Sir Godrick gathers men, then they depart with a score and five. They pass through the lands of the Baron of Deepdale, who feasts them and gives Osberne gifts, showing no enmity. They travel south through peaceful country, then enter a forest and later a valley where they meet David of Riverlease, who provides ten more men. Continuing, they encounter a hostile town where Osberne saves Sir Godrick by shooting a crossbowman. They take refuge in the hills, then pass through a plain where they trade peacefully, and finally enter a cheaping-town where they rest warily.
Chapter 42
They Joust with the Knight of the Fish
Sir Godrick and Osberne encounter the Knight of the Fish, who enforces a custom of jousting all armed companies over a half score. Despite Sir Godrick's anger, they participate; Osberne wounds the opposing champion severely, and Sir Godrick unseats the Knight twice. After the jousts, the Knight of the Fish invites them to drink, but they decline, parting on good terms.
Chapter 43
XLII: They Deliver the Thorp-Dwellers from the Black Skinners
Osberne and Sir Godrick's company encounter a thorp under attack by the Black Skinners. They charge in, slay many of the raiders, help quench the fires, and are begged by the survivors to stay overnight. The next day, five young men join them, and they later find two more ravaged thorps, rescuing two small children. They eventually reach a walled town where they rest for three days.
Chapter 44
XLIII: They Come to the Edge of the Wood Masterless
Osberne and Sir Godrick's company journey through broken, sparsely populated country and arrive at Woodneb, a castle held by Sir Godrick's captain Edward the Brown. They rest there for seven days, enjoying hunting, minstrelsy, and tale-telling. Osberne confides in Sir Godrick about Elfhild's disappearance, suspecting she was taken by the Red Skinners, a kindred of the Black Skinners they had fought. Sir Godrick offers hope that service with him may bring tidings of her.
Chapter 45
XLIV: They Reach Longshaw and Osberne Gets Him a New Name
Sir Godrick and his company, including Osberne, journey through the Wood Masterless to the House of Longshaw. Along the way they encounter chapmen who provide no news of Elfhild. Upon arrival, Osberne marvels at the fortress and is welcomed with honor. Sir Godrick makes him captain over a band of men, and Osberne successfully leads a mission to guard a supply train, ambushing and slaying a band of waylayers, earning the battle cry 'The Red Lad!'
Chapter 46
XLV: The Red Lad Scatters the Host of the Barons
Osberne returns to Longshaw after a fruitless search for Elfhild across the Sundering Flood, only to find that a great league of Barons, backed by the King and the Porte, has risen against Sir Godrick. Sir Godrick sends Osberne (now called the Red Lad) with 1,300 men to break up the northern hosting of the Barons' League. Osberne scatters their 6,000-strong force, destroys their supplies, and rides to join Sir Godrick on the eve of the main battle. The next day, the Barons' host is utterly overthrown. Sir Godrick then besieges and captures the Barons' strongholds, taking most of them captive. Peace is made on Sir Godrick's terms, and Osberne remains occupied with consolidating the victory, though his heart still aches for Elfhild.
Chapter 47
XLVI: Osberne Enters the City of the Sundering Flood
After Marymass, news reaches Longshaw that the Small Crafts and lesser commons have risen against the Porte and King, holding the North Gate. Sir Godrick entrusts Osberne with fifteen hundred men to ride to the City. Osberne leads a swift march, sends spies, and upon learning that the enemy outside the North Gate is unprepared, decides on a night attack. His men leave their horses, advance on foot, and fall upon the foe with surprise, aided by the North Gate garrison. The enemy is routed, and Osberne enters the City in triumph with minimal losses.
Chapter 48
The Battle in the Square
Osberne and the Red Lad lead a council of war, then issue forth to clear the streets and square of enemy forces. After a fierce battle, they secure the carfax and await Sir Godrick's arrival. Sir Godrick arrives with his host and takes over the main assault, ordering Osberne to rest. Osberne maintains order and readiness among his men.
Chapter 49
Sir Godrick Is Chosen Burgreve of the City
Osberne leads a successful assault on the East Gate, capturing it with minimal loss. Sir Godrick and the Council of the Lesser Crafts face the challenge of the King's forces holding the west side of the Sundering Flood. After a series of skirmishes, the King's side seeks peace, and negotiations lead to the appointment of a Burgreve chosen by all Craft Gilds. Sir Godrick is unanimously elected Burgreve, and the Longshaw host agrees to defend the city against an overseas threat.
Chapter 50
Of the City King and the Outland King
The City of the Sundering Flood enjoys peace and prosperity after the threat of the Outland King is delayed by his illness. Sir Godrick strengthens the city's defenses, while Osberne continues to search for Elfhild without success. The following year, the Outland King and the exiled City King attack but are decisively defeated by Sir Godrick's forces. The Red Lad slays the City King, and the Outland King flees, never to return. The city abolishes the monarchy and thrives under a Porte and Great Council.
Chapter 51
L: The Red Lad Speaks Privily with Sir Godrick
Osberne confides in Sir Godrick about his desire to leave the wars and return to his homeland in the Dale beside the Sundering Flood, hoping to find Elfhild at the old trysting-place. He plans to spend one last month at Longshaw before giving up his search and returning to his folk.
Chapter 52
LI: Osberne Is Beguiled by Felons
Osberne, still sorrowing for Elfhild, is approached by a black-clad carle who claims his master knows of the maiden's whereabouts. Eager for news, Osberne pays two hundred nobles and follows the carle into a wooded ghyll, where he is ambushed and stabbed three times. A mysterious figure in scarlet and steel (Steelhead) rescues him, staunches his wounds, and brings him to a hermit for healing. Osberne survives but despairs that his hope was false.
Chapter 53
The Meeting of Osberne and Elfhild
Osberne, recovering from a felonious attack, wanders into the woods and meets a carline who persuades him to visit her cottage. There he discovers Elfhild, his long-lost troth-plight maiden. Three men-at-arms, the same felons who had attacked him, arrive and threaten Elfhild, but Osberne slays them all. The chapter ends with Osberne and Elfhild reunited in each other's arms.
Chapter 54
Strangers Come to Wethermel
Five years to the day after Osberne's departure, the folk of Wethermel gather outside on the evening after Midsummer. Three hooded strangers arrive—a tall man, a young woman, and an old carline—and are welcomed by Stephen the Eater. After a feast, Stephen asks the guests to share a tale or lay, and the tall man requests that his mother, the carline, begin a story that she promises will be unlike any heard before.
Chapter 55
LIV: The Carline Beginneth Her Tale
The Carline begins her tale of an old woman and a beautiful young maiden living in a lonely house beside an impassable river. The maiden pines for her love, separated by the river, while the Carline holds secret hope they will meet. When Red Skinner raiders attack, three men arrive to seize the maiden and kill the Carline, but the Carline's mysterious power thwarts them. The maiden begs to keep the Carline, so both are taken captive. They are forced to ride away, the maiden grieving for her lost love, as the Carline tries to comfort her with cryptic hope.
Chapter 56
LV: The Blue Knight Buys the Maiden of the Chapman
The Carline and the Maiden are brought to the chapman's tent, where the Maiden is weary and sorrowful. The Carline uses her influence to keep them safe. A Blue Knight arrives, buys trinkets, and then sees the Maiden presented by the Carline. The Knight learns she was stolen, offers to buy her, and she agrees to go with him on condition that she may seek her true love and keep the Carline with her. The Knight pays a high price, and they depart, escaping the chapman's attempted arrow.
Chapter 57
LVI: The Blue Knight Talks with the Maiden by the Way
The Blue Knight escorts Elfhild toward his castle, Brookside, showing her great care and honor. During the journey, he confesses his growing attachment and offers to take her back to the Dale if she wishes, but she declines, explaining she must seek what is lost. They travel through various lodgings, encountering potential threats but avoiding conflict, and the Knight's unspoken love and Elfhild's hidden longing for Osberne are palpable.
Chapter 58
They Come to Brookside
Sir Mark (the Blue Knight) brings the Maiden to his home at Brookside, where they are warmly welcomed by his household, including his squires Roland and James. The Maiden overhears talk of the great captain Sir Godrick of Longshaw and reflects on her own love for Osberne. Sir Mark introduces the Maiden to his men, declaring her free and under his protection.
Chapter 59
Peaceful Days in the Castle of Brookside
Elfhild and the Carline settle into life at Brookside Castle under the protection of Sir Mark. The Maiden is welcomed by the household, though Sir Mark's mother is cool and watchful. Elfhild enjoys the peace and diversions of castle life—riding, feasting, and markets—while the Carline observes closely, hoping to find a path for Elfhild's future. Sir Mark's faithful love remains unrequited, as Elfhild's heart is still set on Osberne.
Chapter 60
LIX: Tidings of Longshaw and of the Hosting of the Barons’ League
At the Michaelmas market, the Carline gathers intelligence about Sir Godrick of Longshaw's rising power and the Barons' League forming against him. She learns that Sir Godrick has a new young captain, rumored to be wise and lucky. Later, a knight-messenger invites the Blue Knight to join the League's hosting. The Blue Knight confides in Elfhild his doubts about the League's chances, and mentions the young captain—whom Elfhild suspects may be Osberne.
Chapter 61
LX: The Blue Knight Gathers Men and Departs from Brookside
The Blue Knight, Sir Mark, gathers his men for the Barons' League hosting and departs at sunrise from Brookside. He bids farewell to the Maiden, advising her to flee to the Grey Sisters if he falls, fearing his mother's pride and malice. The Maiden and the Carline watch the array depart, leaving them in sorrow.
Chapter 62
LXI: The Maiden and the Carline Flee to the Grey Sisters
In April and May, Brookside Castle receives conflicting news about the war: first that the Lord of Longshaw is defeated and Sir Godrick executed, then that the tidings may be false. The Maiden is saddened, but the Carline suspects the reports are hearsay. By June, a few tattered survivors of Brookside's men-at-arms return, confirming disaster. Amid the chaos, the Carline leads the Maiden out of the castle, and they ride away toward the Grey Sisters.
Chapter 63
LXII: They Fall in with Three Chapmen
The Lady of Brookside sends men-at-arms to retrieve the Carline and the Maiden from the Grey Sisters, but the sisters have already helped them escape southward disguised as lay-sisters. The two travelers journey peacefully for weeks until they encounter a group of merchants who are actually thieves. The Carline overhears the three chapmen arguing over whether to sell the Maiden to the Lord James or keep her for themselves, but she resolves to deliver them from this danger.
Chapter 64
LXIII: They Escape from the Chapmen by the Carline’s Wizardry
The Carline and the Maiden escape from the chapmen in the night using the Carline's wizardry. The Carline puts the men to sleep, and they ride away at dawn. After resting, the Carline performs a ritual to create a magical barrier behind them, then they continue to a friendly Abbey where they are well received.
Chapter 65
LXIV: The Carline Endeth Her Tale
The Carline and Elfhild, having stayed at a guesthouse, seek passage across the Sundering Flood to draw near to the Knight of Longshaw and his new champion. Through a generous offering to a monastery, they gain the Sub-prior's aid, who arranges their crossing and guides through the Wood Masterless. The Carline reveals Elfhild's story of longing for her champion across the river, and they settle in a dwelling near Longshaw. The Carline eventually waylays the champion, leading to a reunion where the two are sealed for one another.
Chapter 66
Osberne and Elfhild Make Themselves Known to Their People
At Wethermel, the Carline finishes her tale, and Elfhild reveals herself in splendid green and gold attire, stunning the hall. Osberne then sheds his grey cloak to appear in glittering armor, declaring his return after five years and presenting Elfhild as his beloved. The hall erupts in joy, and the folk go to sleep in wonder, longing for dawn to see the couple again, whose presence brings a sweet wisdom that improves all around them.
Chapter 67
The Lip of the Sundering Flood
On a midsummer morning, Osberne and Elfhild walk hand in hand along the edge of the Sundering Flood. They revisit the Bight of the Cloven Knoll, where Elfhild plays a pipe that once summoned sheep, but now the magic has faded. They cast the pipe into the water, where it vanishes into the cave, and a voice blesses them. Elfhild tells a sweet tale, and they rest in the shade before returning to Wethermel.
Chapter 68
A Friend at Need
Three years after previous events, Osberne encounters the Knight of Longshaw fleeing pursuers. He gathers men from Wethermel to defend the Knight, and after a brief skirmish, they slay all the attackers. The Knight declines Osberne's offer of more men, feeling his end is near, and they share a joyful reunion.
Chapter 69
The Knight of Longshaw Gathereth Force
The Knight of Longshaw, content at Wethermel, decides to gather men at Eastcheaping to fight his foes. Osberne offers to lead the host, but the Knight refuses, fearing a prophecy that Osberne would die in battle near the City of the Sundering Flood. Osberne reluctantly returns home, and later hears that the Knight has succeeded. The chapter also notes Osberne's quarterly visits to Steelhead, who remains unchanged.
Chapter 70
List of Illustrations
This chapter provides a list of illustrations for the book, including a map of the fictional land of the Sundering Flood with an inset detailing the City.
