Skallagrim Larson was not an impulsive man. He thought through all of his options before making a final decision. Haakon had had no qualms about leaving Fjell in Skallagrimn's hands because he knew no hasty decisions would be made by his younger brother. Yet for the first time in his life, Skallagrim was considering making just such a hasty decision. The man Arnulf had countered every ploy Skallagrim had thrown his way. Skallagrim was impressed with that. But what was more, his counter had caught Skallagrim off guard, and that was a hard thing to do. Skallagrim had been considering it for the past few hours and had made his decision. That was unusual for him. He usually spent at least a full day weighing all the options. Today, however, was different.

Seeking out the trader Arnulf, Skallagrim drew him aside. "I have thought about what you said earlier today, and I have come to a decision. I like what you have proposed. But I must tell you, I can only give up Sigyn if the offer is truly extraordinary. I would also expect a man to be as good as his word, whether given to me, or to another."

Skallagrim stopped and looked intently at Arnulf. He had tried to make it clear to Arnulf that he was looking for something specific.

Skallagrim continued. "Should we reach an agreement on the bride price, you should know that Sigyn herself will make the final decision on whether she will accept this proposal. In addition, I will leave to her the plans for the wedding. How long from now it will take place and all other decisions will rest with her. She may well wish to wait until Haakon can attend, they are very close." Skallagrim paused briefly before going on. "I have said my fill Arnulf. What say you?"