# XXXVIII: Osberne Parts from Stephen the Eater explained — The Sundering Flood

> Chapter companion for The Sundering Flood by William Morris.

## What happens

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.

## Themes in this chapter

### Separation and Longing

Osberne's parting from Stephen and his hope to return within five years highlight the theme of separation and longing for home and loved ones.

### Fate and Destiny

Osberne acknowledges being in the hands of Weird (fate), expressing uncertainty about his future and the possibility of wandering until old age.

## Character check-ins

### Osberne Wulfgrimsson

Departs Wethermel on a good horse, armed with Boardcleaver and the wonder-bow, leaving Hardcastle's Loom behind.

### Stephen the Eater

Rides with Osberne to the bent and shares a loving farewell, expressing deep affection.

## Key lines

> I am in the hands of Weird, to wend as she will have me

I am subject to fate, to go wherever she directs me.

_Osberne acknowledges his submission to destiny._

> I have hoped and prayed that it might be in no longer space than five years

I have hoped and prayed that it would be no more than five years.

_Osberne expresses his desire to return within five years._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_sundering_flood_se/chapters/xxxviii-osberne-parts-from-stephen-the-eater
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_sundering_flood_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_sundering_flood_se/chapters