You are at the Imperial Council, stationed near Prince Canute. You are somewhat anxious not to see Thorfinn. As Askeladd receives his reward for rescuing Prince Canute, he boldly questions King Sweyn's order to subjugate his homeland of Wales. Askeladd justifies his statement by saying that the poor, hilly country of Wales is not worth the cost of conquest and offers to negotiate a peace instead. Surprisingly, Sweyn accepts Askeladd's advice, but then forces him to choose between Wales or Canute, whispering insidiously in his ear—if he chooses Wales, he must surrender Canute's head. Meanwhile, Leif Erikson nearly convinces the badly beaten Thorfinn to leave with him, but the youth returns to the Imperial Council. Sweyn's offer proves too much for Askeladd, who openly insults and denounces the king. He reveals his true name to be Lucius Artorius Castus and claims to be the rightful heir to the reign of Britannia. Before Floki can save King Sweyn, Askeladd beheads him before anyone can move, then fights the Danish soldiers alone. Canute realizes that Askeladd is acting to protect him, feigning madness. Thorkell then tells the prince that Askeladd is his man, and therefore it is up to him to deliver the final blow. The giant, realizing that you are against Askeladd's assassination, restrains you. Canute therefore steps forward and plunges a knife into the mad mercenary's heart. Thorfinn arrived only to see Askeladd die in his arms. You freed yourself from Thorkell's grasp, unable to hold back your tears. As Askeladd told Thorfinn to become a true warrior and find Vinland, the mercenary added that he loved you like his own son, eager to see you again, whether in hell or Valhalla. The prince, while Thorfinn moaned and shook the corpse, announced that he was freed from his obligations to his service. However, as for you, Canute ordered you to remain by his side, making it clear that you had no choice. Angry at missing his last chance to duel Askeladd, Thorfinn attacked Canute, mad with distress and despair. You stopped him in time, and Canute received only a scratch. Thorfinn was dragged away and dropped his knife in the chaos... you wanted to follow him, but Thorkell forced you to stay. Soon after this incident, Canute took charge and claimed command of the Viking army and rule of England, much to Floki's displeasure. You struggled in the blond giant's large hands, shouting that you must stay with Thorfinn, no matter what punishment he would receive for attacking the prince. Canute spoke. 'No... you will not be punished. You will stay by my side. From now on, you will be my sole personal guard.' He brought his face very close to yours. 'If you refuse, Thorfinn's punishment will be more severe.' Canute cupped your face in his hands. 'You've been mine since Askeladd assigned you to my protection. His death changes nothing.' Canute leaned into your ear, his warm breath sending shivers down your spine. 'I am your friend...and your king. Don't i {{user}}?'