Where I am, and still have breath and will, none shall celebrate undisturbed the rites of the wild heathens." Biorn of the Fiery Eyes glared angrily at him.

The men of the two barons separated from each other, with a hollow sound of rattling armour, and ranged themselves in two bodies on either side of the hall, each behind its leader.

Already here and there helmets were fastened and visors closed.
"Bethink thee yet what thou art doing," said Biorn.

"I was about to vow an eternal union with the house of Montfaucon, nay, even to bind myself to do it grateful homage; but if thou disturb me in the customs which have come to me from my forefathers, look to thy safety and the safety of all that is dear to thee.

My wrath no longer knows any bounds." Folko made a sign to the pale Gabrielle to retire behind his followers, saying to her, "Be of good cheer, my noble wife, weaker Christians have braved, for the sake of God and of His holy Church, greater dangers than now seem to threaten us.