(Old Norse hólmganga,
literally: "island going"). Holmgang was one of several forms of duels during
viking age. The peculiar name of this practice originates from the fact that
small delineated spaces (such as little islands) were often chosen as site for similar combats. Holmgangs were a legally recognized way to settle disputes.
Arvid: Olvar,
Liv... "Milady": That'
s how they greet
beautiful women in the West.
Liv: Wow, impressive.
Olvar: Welcome back from the
raid... I heard you pillaged well.
Arvid: Yeah, it was... yeah, it was really good.
Olvar: Was there something in particular I can
help you with?
Arvid: Yes! Yes! There is one... tiny... question. You still have that farm,
don't you?
Olvar: I do! Biggest one in Nordheim!
Arvid: And... it's still going very well?
Olvar: Oh, it's going good!
Arvid: Yes, so that's what I wanted to talk to you about. Because you know I dig you. I always have and I always will. I really admire you for what you have accomplished.
Olvar: Thank you, Arvid. That's great... skål! Skål to Arvid!
Everyone: Skål!
Arvid: So... I thought I'd challenge you to a holmgang.
Olvar: What?! Holmgang?!
Arvid: Yes, and then the winner can take over the loser's property and
wife and stuff... because that's how the rules are, isn't it, Olav? Chieftain Olav?
Chieftain Olav: That's right, what you say there is right.
Olvar: But you
don't own anything, Arvid!
Arvid: But... that's how the rules are. And it would be stupid of me not to take advantage of it.
Olvar: But I built up everything! With my own hands, from nothing!
Arvid: Yeah! And I really
respect you for that. But still... I, Arvid, hereby challenge Olvar to a Holmgang!
Everyone: *
cheers and rejoices *
~Norsemen