The Sundering Flood · Chapter
XXVII: They Parley from the Walls explained
The Baron of Deepdale, having been captured by Sir Medard and his men, awakens in Eastcheaping.
What happens
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.
Themes in this chapter
Community and Kinship
The townspeople of Eastcheaping and the Deepdale host negotiate an end to the siege, highlighting the bonds and obligations within and between communities.
Social Justice and Rebellion
The carle-warriors of Eastcheaping, led by Sir Medard, successfully resist the Baron's siege and secure favorable terms, reflecting themes of rebellion against oppressive authority.
Characters to notice
- Osberne Wulfgrimsson
Present in the chamber with Sir Medard and the Baron; introduced to the Baron as the lad of Wethermel who slew Hardcastle and showed valiancy in the war.
- Sir Medard
Leads the parley from the walls, commands the capture of the Baron, and negotiates the end of the siege.
- The Baron of Deepdale
Captured and brought to Eastcheaping; awakens in Sir Medard's chamber and later commands his host to depart under lenient terms.
- Stephen the Eater
Reveals himself as the minstrel who beguiled the Baron; offers friendship and is chided by Osberne for mocking a captive.
- Sir Degore
Leader of the besieging host; parleys with Sir Medard, learns of the Baron's capture, and later obeys the Baron's command to disband the army.
Key passages
“Sir Medard, I pray thee leave to depart to my host, that I may do after the bidding of my lord.”
Sir Medard, please allow me to return to my army so I can carry out my lord's orders.
Sir Degore requests permission to leave the town to disband the besieging forces as commanded by the Baron.
“Yea, go; yet I would have thee remember that I pray for a long life for the Baron of Deepdale, since he hath become so good a friend to our town, and that thou wilt be in the wrong if thou do aught to shorten it.”
Yes, go; but remember that I wish the Baron a long life now that he is our friend, and you would be wrong to harm him.
Sir Medard grants leave but warns Sir Degore against any treachery that might shorten the Baron's life.