[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"origin-the-reborn-king":3,"chapter-the-reborn-king-the-reborn-king-chapter-176":6},{"origin":4,"title":5},"english","The Reborn King",{"chapter":7,"nextChapterSlug":20,"prevChapterSlug":21,"totalChapters":22,"novelImage":23},{"id":8,"novel_id":9,"title":10,"slug":11,"index":12,"content":13,"wordcount":14,"created_at":15,"updated_at":16,"volume":17,"translator":18,"content_hash":19},1100933,1437,"Chapter 176: The Last Son","the-reborn-king-chapter-176",176,"\u003Cp>The fire ripping echoed throughout the cave as an old man threw a heavy sack on the ground and took a seat leaning against it. He let out a satisfied noise from his mouth as he could finally warm his hands up.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"How are things looking, Gunnar?\" Rolf, a young man in his twenties who looked like Knut asked, getting a shake of the head from the old man.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Good and bad. On one hand that woman had left with a majority of her forces now. If we wanted to use an opportunity to strike, now would be it.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"But?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"But, the man that’s looking after things in her place has prepared for this. The black cloaks are what we call them. They look to be some of Frode’s old men. They have eyes all over Helstia and it seems they have spread to the other towns and villages.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Rolf clicked his tongue in annoyance. He was the last surviving son of Knut and had barely escaped Helga’s purge. It was all thanks to Gunnar that he could and from his knowledge, it seemed Helga didn’t know of his existence. But that didn’t calm his nerves as he knew that one whisper of it could be his end.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"How are the others doing?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"They have become tense with the new black cloaks. Despite being men of that brute Frode, they are very observant. Some have left the settlements and much like yourself are in hiding.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"It’s a shame, but if it’s what they feel safe doing, so be it.\" Those who were left from Knut’s camp who had no loyalties to him had diminished significantly and the only reason that those who were left stayed around was because they wanted revenge for Knut or any friends and family that had been killed. Those who could escape and had no reason to stay had already left to serve others.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He knew that those who remained had little loyalty for him left and only followed him so they could carry out their revenge. Maybe it would change when everything was over, but Rolf didn’t think so.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"How are you holding up?\" Gunnar asked with concern and it caused Rolf to smile softly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Other than living in a cave for months, I’m perfect. I go to those smaller villages when I feel myself going insane staying here alone.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"There is always that way.\" Gunnar didn’t need to elaborate but with a small chuckle, he shook his head.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I’m not disfiguring myself so I can walk about.\" Waving his hand he carried on. \"Anyway. With her gone, is there anything you can think of to get the edge? That bitch must have one weakness whilst she’s gone.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I mean she left her kids, but we’re talking about a woman who killed her father in cold blood. I wouldn’t put it past her to let her kid die if she saw it fit.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I disagree.\" Unlike the pessimistic view Gunnar held, Rolf liked the idea. \"Sure she’s a lunatic, but she must hold some feelings for them. I don’t mean love, I doubt she even knows what that is. But..\" He clicked his fingers trying to find the words, \"I guess an extension of herself or more importantly her proclaimed divinity. You told me that she gave them some of her blood. And that whole thing about bringing the new age. I bet you those kids are the way she believes it will happen.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I don’t know. But let’s hypothetically say we go for them, how would we even do it? They must be the most protected thing in Helstia.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To that, Rolf could only shrug his shoulders as his head fell. \"I don’t know. But even if we don’t kidnap one, kill the babes in their bed. That way we can at least hurt her.\" His voice ozzed a cruelty that he previously lacked but Gunnar didn’t blame him. Helga had left no trace of Knut’s lineage, killing the youngest of children in the process. He knew Rolf carried a deep anger having to leave his brothers and sisters to be slaughtered and it was his shame that he couldn’t save the young ones before they died.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"If that’s what you want, it can be done. But it’s still a matter of getting close.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Do you know anyone who could?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I did. Maybe, I need to look around, but it’s risky. But the people are on edge over there, and with the wealth brought back from the Great Raid, it will be hard to find someone we could bribe to do it.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Okay. Just wait for an opportunity. If nothing arises I will try to force one.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"That’s too dangerous,\" Gunnar said sharply, getting a scoff in response.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I have run and hid for months like a beaten dog. I heard my baby siblings scream as they had knives plunged in their hearts, Gunnar. Do you think I am happy sitting here and licking my wounds whilst I wait for your food deliveries and updates? If I have to come out of hiding and potentially join my family in Uppsala, I will do so with a smile, knowing I tried to get revenge.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"This isn’t a simple blood feud. She exterminated my family. And you tell me it’s dangerous to go outside. If I die, finish the job for me. That way when you join me, we can drink and laugh in the great halls without any bad blood.\" Gunnar was silent hearing his words and took a deep breath. He had underestimated the young man’s conviction.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Okay. But don’t do anything risky yet. If there is no way forward, then so be it.\" Gunnar looked behind him at the cave entrance. The winds were getting stronger. \"I must leave. I still need to see the others and don’t wish to be out at night.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Go. I want to eat anyway.\" Reaching out the two grabbed each other’s wrists and shook, with Gunnar pulling a wool mask over his face and leaving.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ivar smiled as he watched Helga’s two children in their cots. Whilst not having her here was a mood killer for him, having her future there was good in itself. He knew the weight of their lives and Ivar swore to himself to protect them.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Ivar.\" A black cloak walked in from behind and called out.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"What is it?\" He sighed knowing he had to go back to work.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"The hostage is here.\" Ivar nodded and walked off, leaving the two large guards alone with the Ancient Ones and children. \"They’re not alone though.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Expected. Where is she?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"The meeting hall. I have a few men watching them. The old guy who came is quite strong.\" There was anticipation in the man’s voice as he stroked the axe head on his belt, expectantly. Ivar placed a hand on his shoulder, his grip tightening and voice going frosty.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"You will get your chance. But do not be stupid now.\" Looking up into his eyes, the black cloak smiled raising his two hands playfully.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Don’t worry.\" The man laughed, but Ivar could only frown hearing it. His men were all loyal. He didn’t doubt that. But they were all too eager. He needed to reign it in, or he was sure something would happen.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Has anything happened recently?\" Despite the constant updates he got, some things still hadn’t reached his ear. The man went silent for a second but shook his head.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Things are still in order. A couple of petty crimes but nothing too serious.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He didn’t reply pushing the door open to the meeting hall. Inside he saw the girl, no older than twenty, standing there with an annoyed expression. By her right, an old warrior cautiously eyed him up. Walking to the steps to the throne, he sat on them and looked up at the two.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Frida was confused as to why he didn’t sit on the throne. He had seen those who looked after things when her father was gone do it. Shaking her head and trying her best to force a smile she started. \"I am Frida Svendottir.\" To her words Ivar just watched her, lazily resting his head on his hand. The silence that lingered in the air made Frida restless as she rubbed her arm and looked around.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Five black cloaks watched them, but Ivar’s piercing eyes felt the most threatening, despite him not even holding a weapon. \"So you’re Sven’s daughter. But who are you?\" Ivar finally broke the silence and looked towards Brede who scoffed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Her escort and guard whilst here. I’m sure the Queen isn’t so cruel to not allow a familiar face to stay with her.\" Sparks flew in the air as Ivar’s eyes went colder looking at him. Brede smiled and lifted his nose, looking down at him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Who are you to decide that?\" Frida shrunk herself as Brede took a step forward at Ivar’s aggressive words. The rustling of weapons forced him to stop and Ivar raised his hand stopping his people from attacking. \"It doesn’t matter. You can stay with her.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Turning back to face Frida he smiled, without it reaching his eyes. \"I’m sure you must be hungry after your journey. Would you care to join me?\" He asked politely stunning Frida. The switch from domineering to kindness was too sudden. She gave a meek nod unsure of how else to react and Ivar pushed himself up. \"Help him find his room. Come on.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Frida looked back at Brede. Despite being angry with him for forcing her here, he was the only one she knew. But looking at the black cloaks surrounding him, she knew there was nothing that could be done. Quickly composing herself she ran after Ivar and followed him into the next room.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He took a seat and offered the one opposite him. Frida looked at it for a couple of seconds eventually taking her seat. Flicking his finger at one of the ladies waiting to serve them, she gave a small nod and walked off to prepare the food. \"Before we begin. Forgive me for any distress we caused you.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His apology was another shock to her and before Frida could say anything he carried on. \"Your father left Our Lord no choice. He blatantly provoked her and held no real loyalty. To entrust our backs to such a man... I’m sure you’re smart enough to understand.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"It’s fine.\" Ivar could see she was nervous, but he knew she would be. That being said, it didn’t seem she held anger directed toward them, instead, it was more at her family. It was a good sign, but he needed to know more. \"I’m just a little tired is all.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Anyone would be. But I’m sure you have seen Helstia, albeit briefly. What do you think of it so far?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Fiddling with her hands she smiled. \"It’s very nice. But you have many carvings everywhere. Is that the queen?\" Ivar heard the wariness in her voice talking about Helga. But deep in that was a slight admiration that couldn’t be removed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was strange to Frida. Unlike the smile he had shown so far, the one he wore at the mention of Helga was like a blooming flower. The worship in his eyes was unmistakable. \"Is it not natural for us to worship the Gods?\" It was like he answered the simplest question in the world.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"She is really a God?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Of course. She passed all the tests and was accepted by Hakon.\" Realizing he was becoming too excited he calmed himself down. \"Still I’m sure you must have heard some unsettling things.\" He could see she hesitated to talk, but Ivar smiled warmly. \"Please. Feel free to speak your mind.\" Once more she played with her fingers, but taking a deep breath she forced herself to stop. She knew that despite being a hostage, she wouldn’t be harmed. They couldn’t risk it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Father said she was a scary woman. And there are stories about what she has done. To the other Kings and Jarls. Even her father.\" Quickly waving her hands in front of her Frida quickly carried on, \"That being said, I have great respect for her. She is a Queen after all. When has there ever been one?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"These rumors you have heard. They’re over-exaggerated.\" Ivar lied as easily as he breathed. He knew that Helga did most of those things for the simple reason that she wanted to. It was her right as a God and who was he to say she was wrong?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>That being said, it wasn’t the answer he could give. \"Think about it. Your father. Would he spare the family of his enemy? No. It is natural to kill your enemies family to secure your rule, especially when they can’t be trusted. And she didn’t kill Frode, he was murdered by our enemies and someone she trusted. It’s a cruel world, and she was forced to be like it.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It made sense in Frida’s head. She knew her father wouldn’t spare the two Jarls families. The blood feud called for it. And the fate of those who went on the Great Raid changed all the time. She had heard so many stories from traders that she didn’t know what to believe half the time. Still, her father’s words echoed in her mind and no matter how much she hated him right now, it was something she didn’t push aside.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ivar carried on seeing her in thought. \"Sven’s fears aren’t justified either. He is jealous that a woman achieved greater heights than him. Thats all. I mean look at yourself. Did he give you a say in sending you here? I assume not. Does he give you a voice in things despite being his child? He simply can’t believe that a woman achieved more than him without having to sell her body.\" It was easy to assume what a man like Sven was. He was the same before Helga arrived. Most were.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His words hit a cord with Frida. Her father was a man who never cared for her opinion. How many times had her concerns been overshadowed because of her brothers, even if hers were more important?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"But she killed her father did she not?\" Quickly covering her mouth she realized that she had made a mistake. Despite the resentment she felt for her father at these things, she still loved him. It was a question she meant to ask herself. But Ivar didn’t do anything and shook his head.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Did the Gods not all give what they held most dear to achieve their place? I saw it happen. It was a beautiful moment and proved her divinity. One could look at it as the most loving act between father and child.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Insane. To anyone’s ears, Ivars words could only be described like that. Even Frida felt he was crazy. But seeing the worship in his face as he spoke about it and the worship she had seen from the people, she couldn’t help but believe there was an ounce of truth in it. Yet the nagging warning of Sven still echoed.’I can’t trust them so easily. Father said she was a demon.’\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Opening her mouth, she was unable to carry on as the door opened and a small feast was brought in for the two. \"You will see a lot and learn a lot whilst you are hear. I don’t know what your father has told you, but your perception of this world will change whilst here.\" Picking up his cutlery he ripped a leg of the chicken in front. \"Enjoy your food.\"\u003C\u002Fp>",2616,"2026-06-03T11:17:48.775Z","2026-06-03T11:17:51.400Z",1,"novelbin.me","3edd0f1ee635df850cbd088ccca3e4fc2f69b1b94139775eba845ced40e0f7ca","the-reborn-king-chapter-177","the-reborn-king-chapter-175",487,"https:\u002F\u002Fnovelzhen.com\u002Fimages\u002Fcovers\u002Fthe-reborn-king-cover.jpg"]