Áki

Áki is disparaging, stubborn, and quick to insult companions whose judgment he considers poor.

He exists comfortably within a mercenary culture where an argument between comrades can become lethal without seriously disrupting the larger group. Refusing to retract an insult matters more to him than avoiding an unnecessary fight.

Áki is an experienced warrior proficient with an axe and shield.

His membership in Askeladd's company implies experience with raiding, shield-based combat, marches, naval travel, and close fighting, although no exceptional individual feat distinguishes him from the band's strongest warriors.

He wears comparatively little armor, relying on his shield and ordinary Viking fighting ability for defense.

Áki appears during Askeladd's band's operations near Bath in November 1013 after the mercenaries raid a farming settlement.

While eating with other members of the band, he discusses Askeladd's plans and suggests that they may be taking whatever resources they can before moving north.

Tore questions why the band does not simply attack a larger settlement. Áki mocks him, pointing out that their force barely exceeds one hundred men.

Tore takes offense, the argument escalates, and Áki refuses to apologize after being insulted in return. Their confrontation becomes a duel, during which Tore eventually drives a sword through Áki's chest.

Askeladd is Áki's commander and leader of the mercenary band.

Tore is Áki's fellow mercenary and the opponent who kills him after their argument becomes a duel.

Bjorn observes the dispute and realizes that it has progressed too far for casual intervention.

Thorfinn serves within the same mercenary company during Áki's time in the band.