StybbiR returns from a far land...

My friend and master StybbiR returned yesterday from a land called Birka. I'm not sure of the towns location, but StybbiR says that it's coastal lands and atmosphere are unlike anything he has ever seen. Gold, silver, glass, and clay are commonplace and the town is constantly alive with the chatter of traders. My master tells me that the most amazing sight to see in Birka is the ships that carry 50 men and reach to the heavens! However, StybbiR did not visit the town for its scenery. He instead went to have the best artist in the land, Nokki, lay his work upon the antler rack that I found not a month ago. I must say that besides my wife and children, I have never seen anything more beautiful. He split the rack into 7 seperate pieces; each unique in its form. The intricacy and flawness of the works are indescribable. Someday I will visit the town of Birka and thank this man for his work. Until next time!

An indescribable craft in the works...

When I brought the antler rack back to the common house, StybbiR made me a deal I couldn't refuse. Because I don't have a lot of currency to spare, StybbiR agreed to pay for the artist to work on the rack if I split the material with him. Of course, realizing the expense of commissioning the entire rack, I agreed promptly. It seems that god has blessed my life with colorful and splendid form at this time because aside from the antlers, my wife Dota has made the most beautiful pair of shirt and pant I have ever seen. The shirts are inlaced with leather neck ties and appear as yellow as the shining sun. The pants are a beautiful malt brown and come equipped with a hefty leather belt and buckle. I don't know if I am deserving of all this but I can surely say that I will accept it all with open arms!

A sad day for all...

I wish this entry could be more inviting but something terrible has happened. Last night the great Earl Bekki died of a terrible fever. He had been sick for quite some time but showed signs of getting better. His death is unexpected but he will flourish in the afterlife. His family has commissioned a rune to be erected by one of the best artists in his honor. The words will be chosen carefully and a picture of a serpent will be its centerpiece. In addition, they will build a bridge crossing the creek that runs along the eastern side of town. I pray to the deities above who will guide him on his lofty quest. However, I believe that there is only so much time for morning. There is much work to be done and I hope that Freyr will bless the fertility of our crops this upcoming season. Aside from the unpleasantries, I would like to end this message on a lighter note. On the walk back from our neighboring village, I stumbled upon an antler rack bigger than any I have ever seen. Once I save enough, I will commission an artist to make something of it. I cannot wait! Fairwell for now!

Free at last from my loathsome past...

Ahh...to breath fresh air as a freeman is a new experience for me. My name is TryggR Afastrsson son of Afastr Johanesson from the northern Svear territories. For my entire life I have served the greatly respected and powerful StybbiR Andersson. It was just yesterday, one week after my 24th birthday, that I bought my freedom. It cost me almost my entire savings but I feel that for my families sake it was well worth it. Along with my freedom, Mr. Anderson was so kind as to give me a leather vest, new woolen socks, and a hindquarter of a pig. I am so happy I can hardly contain myself! Although StybbiR gave me the choice, I have decided to stay and serve However, in spite of my independence I have other worries. It is speculated that the surrounding territories are gathering arms for concentrated attacks against some foreign establishment; I know not who yet. I only hope that I can live to enjoy my freedom while it lasts.

- TryggR Johanessen