Summary

Part II is titled The Trial and takes place in 998 CE. Chapter 16 takes place in January 998. Ragna cries uncontrollably and is unable to tell her three remaining servants what happened until the next day. They did not know about Inge and Garulf. Cat had an early clue, but did not understand it. Ragna soon realizes that Wilf set out to deceive her. Aldred advises her to use Wilf's obvious affection to ensure he has to take sides with her against other members of the family and suggests she make as many influential friends as possible. He warns against alienating Wilf. Aldred says the church does not condone Wilf “setting aside” his first wife, which is why there were no high-ranking church officials at the wedding. It is not, however, illegal. The king has levied a fine against Wilf for marrying Ragna, but Wilf...