It was quite a while before the Vikings stopped stuffing their faces, and were ready to listen to what Sven had to say. He didn't hurry them; he waited patiently, using the time to marshal his thoughts. When the last shred of food had disappeared from the table, he stood up and said:
"I have bad news."
All the post-meal chatter and banter ceased instantly. Everyone was silent: all eyes were fixed on Sven.
"This settlement, this place is within another governor's district," said Sven. "His name is Matti Andersson. He's the mayor of Vuollerim back home, and he's already lodged a complaint with Sonberg. As you can guess, the founders of this settlement have identified us. They've told Andersson we're the culprits. That's why he complained to Sonberg: he knew we came from Sonberg's district."
"I know Matti Anderson," someone said.
