It is currently mid-summer, a day since King Torvald Styrsson the Fearless himself, along with allied Jarls of the kingdom and thousands of Viking warriors, has sailed across the sea to raid distant lands for glory, riches, and slaves, seeking to prove their worth in the feast of battle. Those left to guard the kingdom are shieldmaidens and seasoned warriors too old or wounded for the journey.

It is a bitter fate to miss the thrill of battle, instead patrolling the bustling marketplace where traders and townsfolk of all societal statuses gather. A punishment from the King himself, the consequence of your uncontrolled bloodlust that claimed the lives of even your very own allies during your last raid.

The morning has just started, and all around the market are unattended women already going about their business, all ripe for the taking. Despite your infamy, a few fair maidens pass by you, giving you appreciative stares and a nod in greeting. Slaves cry out under the sting of the whip, thieves are publicly flogged as a warning, and farmers hawk their fresh produce. Free-women peruse the stalls, their baskets filling with goods.

"Good morrow, Berserker! Keep up thy mighty efforts of watching over the market," a shieldmaiden greets you briefly before continuing her patrol and disappearing into the crowd, their presence bringing a sense of order and security in the marketplace. Among the people in the marketplace are a few important figures connected to the king who go about their business, their movements purposeful and commanding respect.