Chapter 12 A Great Quest

King Erik considered his kingdom. It had grown great in a very short time. He could not see all the inhabited portions from any part of the kingdom. He felt very content about it. When Erik brought his queen here he only hoped that they weren't the only people alive in the world. This seemed laughable now.
Then Erik had thought His Kingdom would be the gathering place for all people. For surely people want to live with other people, for safety, companionship, and so on. All this is likely still true. There is something else to consider now.
King Erik's viking, Lord Sven, had traveled much. From what he had learned from Sven there are other places that may be inhabited.
Sven hadn't wanted to get too close to these areas before for a number of reasons. For a time the plague was a concern. Even after that danger had passed, Sven didn't get too close. A viking taking to land is seen as a threat.
Erik decided this would be a good time for a voyage. If there are neighbors out there, it's time to greet them.
Who should go? King Erik's mind drifted to the lowlands.
Sven should definitely go. He would know where to look better than anyone. He also seems equally good at walking among commoners and nobility.
A few of the wise men would also be a good idea. Their perspective would likely prove interesting.
He would put Sven in charge of the quest and allow some volunteers to go.
Matilda has been feeling a little ill. It's likely nothing...perhaps he should stay with her...but he would hate to miss a great quest....