Chapter 8Scene 2

ASLAUG The world has changed for me within one night. O surely, surely all shall yet go well, Since Love is crowned.

Aslaug, the hour arrives When I must leave thee. For the dawn looks pale Into our chamber and these first rare sounds Expect the arising sun, the daylight world.

ASLAUG Eric, thou goest hence to war with Swegn, My brother?

What knows thy heart?

ASLAUG

That Swegn shall live.

Thou knowst his safety from deliberate swords. None shall dare touch the head that Aslaug loves. But if some evil chance came edged with doom, Which Odin and my will shall not allow, Thou wouldst not hold me guilty of his death, Aslaug?

ASLAUG

Fate orders all and Fate I now Have recognised as the world’s mystic Will That loves and labours.

Because it knows and loves, Our hearts, our wills are counted, are indulged. Aslaug, for a few days in love and trust Anchor thy mind. I shall bring back thy joy. For now I go with mercy and from love.

He embraces her and goes.

ASLAUG Swegn lives. A Mind, not iron gods with laws Deaf and inevitable, overrules.