I noticed a stranger looking my way as I leaned over to steal a kiss from Orla's lips, before she turned and headed inside to take care of the chores. Arranging the furs in my arms, I continued on up the path that lead to her hut. But as I walked on I had a strange feeling. That kind where you feel someone's eyes boring into your back.

Nothing or no one was around, or so it seemed but the little voice inside told me that wasnt the case. No matter. I was prepared for anything. My seax was now at hand under the bottom layer of furs as I continued on. Perhaps they would get a surprise..

Thinking it was one of Frostie's pandering bulls come back for revenge, I deliberately quickened my speed and took the path closest to the stream where I could be hidden from view by the boulders. Moving amongst them, I threw down the furs and waited, out of sight from the path. But nothing happened and no one came. I waited for what seemed like a long time, then thinking I'd imagined it, I carried on till I got to the hut and dumped the furs.