The Sundering Flood · Chapter
XLIV: They Reach Longshaw and Osberne Gets Him a New Name explained
Sir Godrick and his company, including Osberne, journey through the Wood Masterless to the House of Longshaw.
What happens
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!'
Themes in this chapter
Heroism and Growth
Osberne transitions from a boy to a captain, earning his new name through cunning and bravery in battle.
Separation and Longing
Osberne's grief for Elfhild stirs as he beholds the Sundering Flood, yet he presses on with duty.
Characters to notice
- Osberne Wulfgrimsson
Travels to Longshaw, is renamed the Red Lad, and proves his valor as a captain.
- Sir Godrick
Leads the company to Longshaw, honors Osberne, and gives him command of a band.
- Elfhild
Osberne inquires about her from chapmen but receives no tidings.
- The Red Lad
Osberne earns this new name as his men cry it in battle.
Key passages
“Lo, Red Lad, my House of Longshaw, and this is the Shaw which we have come through: now how likest thou the house?”
Sir Godrick points out Longshaw to Osberne and asks his opinion.
Osberne is formally introduced to his new home and identity.
“Terrible indeed became that cry in no very long time.”
The battle cry 'The Red Lad!' soon struck fear into enemies.
Osberne's reputation as a warrior begins to grow.