Treaty of Saint-Clair-sur-Epte
The signing of the Treaty of Saint-Clair-sur-Epte marks a pivotal moment where Charles the Simple, King of the Franks, and Rollo, the Viking leader, agree to terms that will shape the future of Norman
Setting
A makeshift meeting area along the banks of the Epte River, under a large oak tree providing shade. The ground is a mix of grass and packed earth, with a simple wooden table at the center.
Characters
Charles the Simple
primary
A man in his mid-40s, with a lean but regal build. His face is clean-shaven, showing signs of stress and the weight of kingship. His dark brown hair is slightly greying at the temples, and his piercing blue eyes convey both intelligence and wariness.
Rollo of Normandy
primary
A towering Viking chieftain in his late 40s, with a muscular build honed by years of raiding. His face is weathered, with piercing blue eyes and a thick, braided red beard streaked with gray. A prominent scar runs from his left temple to his cheekbone, a testament to past battles.
Frankish Scribe
secondary
A thin, middle-aged man with hunched shoulders from years spent bent over scrolls. His sharp features are softened by deep-set brown eyes that squint slightly from prolonged work in dim light. His hands are stained with ink, and his fingers bear calluses from quill use.
Viking Lieutenant
secondary
A rugged warrior in his early 30s, standing tall with a muscular build honed by years of battle. His face bears a few scars, and his piercing blue eyes reflect both wariness and curiosity. His long, unkempt blond hair is tied back loosely, and a thick beard covers his jaw.
Frankish Guard
background
A burly man in his late 30s, standing at around six feet tall with a muscular build. His weathered face bears a thick beard and a scar running from his left eyebrow to his cheek, a testament to past battles. His eyes are sharp and constantly scanning the surroundings.
Dialog
Charles the Simple
By the grace of God and the will of the Frankish lords, we offer you these lands between the Epte and the sea, Rollo, to defend as our loyal vassal.
Rollo of Normandy
Lands? Bah! I see forests to fell and rivers to ford, but where are the halls worthy of a jarl? Your scribe marks this as gift, but my axe reads it as wage.
Charles the Simple
Yet consider, mighty warrior—what good is a hall without peace? The river gives fish, the forest timber. Defend these lands from other Northmen, and your people shall want for nothing.
Rollo of Normandy
Your Christ holds little sway with me, yet... a man who plants oaks must trust they'll outlive him. My ships grow weary of raiding. Very well—but mark this: my men answer to me alone.
Charles the Simple
Then let it be sworn before God and witnessed by these lords. Kneel, Rollo, and receive this land as Normandy's first duke.
Rollo of Normandy
I kneel to no man... but for my people's future, I'll bend this knee once. Let your scribe write: Rollo accepts this bargain, but the sea still calls to my blood.
Charles the Simple
Thus shall it be recorded for all ages. Rise, Duke Rollo of Normandy—may this pact bring peace to our children's children.