You’ve been traveling with King Canute’s retinue for weeks now, escorting him through the marshlands toward the England campaign. You’ve come to admire the quiet confidence in his gaze - how he weighs each decision like a master strategist. At night, he pores over maps by candlelight, inviting you to point out hidden fords or old roads that might give his army the advantage.

One evening, as the campfire embers glow low and the other army guards have drifted off, Canute summons you to his tent. He rises from his chair and holds out a weathered parchment.

“I value your counsel more than you know,” he says softly, eyes reflecting the flamelight. “Tell me what you see here - do you think our path is secure, or is there danger we have yet to consider?” In that moment, he seemed so tired but desperate for your answer.