Gorm (died c. 985) was a Jomsviking who followed Palnatoke and later followed Styrbjörn the Strong after the former's death. He fought during the Battle of Fýrisvellir against Styrbjörn's uncle Eric the Victorious.
Biography[]
Circa 985, Gorm was present at Palnatoke's side while encamped on the shore of the Mälaren, only having recently sided with Styrbjörn the Strong, claimant to the Swedish throne, Gorm was opposed to the prince's recent decision to burn their own fleet. He voiced doubts of Palnatoke's men and their allegiance to Styrbjörn. When confronted by Styrbjörn, Gorm refuted his fellowship of Palnatoke, not Styrbjörn. The arguments died and Gorm's opinions were soon forgotten with the sudden appearance of the Dane shieldmaiden Thyra Haraldsdottir.[1]
Some time later, after an encounter that left his commander Palnatoke dead, Gorm commented on Styrbjörn's recently acquired ornate dagger said to be a holy relic from the recently retreated Harald Bluetooth, insisting that he destroy or discard it. Gorm was then harshly reprimanded by Styrbjörn, though Gorm and the other Jomsvikings pushed back. Unwilling to fight for him, something Styrbjörn himself knew. They talked of honor and fighting for Styrbjörn in the name of what Palnatoke stood for. After hearing strong words from Thyra, now Styrbjörn's betrothed, they came to an agreement, Gorm and the Jomsvikings allied themselves with Styrbjörn, though would not fight for him, only for vengeance.[2]
A short while later, Gorm and his men stood within sight of the Fyrisfield, though there was no sight of Eric. Although it was theorized he had holed up further into Uppsala, the move confused Gorm. Before entering the plain, the Jomsvikings, led by Stybjörn, formed ranks and marched forth in a wedge formation, beating their shields like drums. As they approached, a massive herd of cattle, turned into a living war machine, charged towards them. After being saved from the stampeding cattle by Stybjörn, Eric's army approached. Gorm with his Jomsvikings stood their ground in a fierce battle, successfully holding their shield walls until evening fell and Eric's army withdrew. Gorm, once doubtful, now swore allegiance to Stybjörn, acknowledging his leadership and feats in the face of adversity.[2]
The following morning, Gorm and his men followed Stybjörn once again, ready for the ensuing battle. When the Jomsvikings appeared on the horizon, the Svear clans formed a formidable front, and the battle commenced. After hours of bloodshed, Stybjörn was challenged and defeated in single combat. King Eric then sacrificed the Jomsvikings to Odin, and each man fought to the last until all of the Jomsvikings present were dead.[3]
Appearances[]
References[]
- ↑ Assassin's Creed: Last Descendants – Fate of the Gods – Chapter 16
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 Assassin's Creed: Last Descendants – Fate of the Gods – Chapter 19
- ↑ Assassin's Creed: Last Descendants – Fate of the Gods – Chapter 22