Bartering

Bartering: Securing Ceolwulf's Claim in Sciropescire

The "Bartering" questline in Sciropescire is a pivotal arc in Assassin's Creed Valhalla, focusing on Eivor's efforts to install Ceolwulf as the rightful King of Mercia. This involves a delicate balance of diplomatic negotiations and, when necessary, more forceful persuasion. Your choices and actions throughout this quest will directly influence the political landscape of Sciropescire and the broader Mercian region.

Quest Objectives Overview:

• Objective 1: Meet with Ceolwulf and establish your alliance.
• Objective 2: Secure support for Ceolwulf's claim through diplomacy and strategic alliances.
• Objective 3: Deal with any opposition, both political and military, to solidify Ceolwulf's position.

Phase 1: Initial Alliance and Diplomatic Overtures

Your journey in Sciropescire begins by meeting with Ceolwulf himself. He can be found in the town of Quatford, specifically within the longhouse. Upon your arrival, you'll be introduced to the political turmoil gripping the region and Ceolwulf's aspirations for the throne.

Key NPCs and Initial Dialogue Choices:

• Ceolwulf: The rightful heir to Mercia, currently in exile. He seeks Eivor's aid to reclaim his birthright.
• Ivarr the Boneless: A Viking warlord and ally who initially supports Ceolwulf, though his methods are often brutal.
• Bishop Deorlaf: A key religious figure in Sciropescire whose support is crucial for legitimacy.

During your initial conversations, Eivor will have dialogue options that shape the immediate approach. While the core objective remains the same, your tone can influence Ceolwulf's confidence and Ivarr's eagerness for battle. For instance, choosing options that emphasize diplomacy over immediate bloodshed can sometimes lead to fewer direct confrontations later, though Ivarr will always lean towards violence.

Phase 2: Securing Support - Diplomacy and Persuasion

This phase involves gaining the allegiance of various factions and influential figures across Sciropescire. Your primary target for diplomatic support is Bishop Deorlaf.

Step-by-Step Walkthrough:

1. Travel to Wenlocan Abbey: Bishop Deorlaf is located at Wenlocan Abbey, a significant religious stronghold in the region.
2. Investigate the Abbey: Upon arrival, you'll find the abbey under siege or recently raided. You'll need to clear out any remaining enemies – typically Order of the Ancients Zealots or hostile Anglo-Saxon soldiers – to ensure the Bishop's safety.
   • Enemy Type: Anglo-Saxon Soldiers (Spearmen, Axemen, Archers). Occasionally, a Zealot may patrol nearby.
   • Recommended Loadout: A balanced build with a strong bow for ranged threats and a reliable melee weapon for close quarters. Stealth is highly effective for clearing the abbey grounds.
   • Strategy Tip: Use the surrounding foliage and structures for cover. Prioritize archers on elevated positions.
3. Locate Bishop Deorlaf: He will be found within the main abbey building or a nearby crypt, depending on the state of the raid.
4. Diplomatic Negotiations with Deorlaf: This is where your dialogue choices become critical. Deorlaf is wary of Viking influence and needs convincing that Ceolwulf is a just and capable ruler.
   • Key Dialogue Choices:
     • "Ceolwulf is a man of peace and faith." (Emphasizes Ceolwulf's Christian piety, appealing to Deorlaf's religious sensibilities.)
     • "He will bring stability to Mercia." (Highlights the political benefits of Ceolwulf's rule, appealing to Deorlaf's concern for his people.)
     • "My word is my bond, Bishop." (Reinforces Eivor's trustworthiness and commitment to Ceolwulf's cause.)
   • Avoid: Aggressive or threatening dialogue options. While Ivarr might approve, Deorlaf will become more resistant.
   • Outcome: Successful persuasion will earn Deorlaf's crucial endorsement, lending legitimacy to Ceolwulf's claim. This often unlocks further quest objectives related to public support.

Phase 3: Dealing with Opposition - Forceful Persuasion and Combat

Even with diplomatic support, there will inevitably be those who oppose Ceolwulf's ascension. This phase often involves direct confrontation and strategic elimination of threats.

Specific Encounters and Challenges:

1. The Battle for Caustow Castle: This is a major military engagement required to remove a key opposing warlord.
   • Location: Caustow Castle, a heavily fortified stronghold in central Sciropescire.
   • Objective: Breach the castle defenses and defeat the opposing commander, Rued's Brother (or a similar named Anglo-Saxon warlord, depending on previous choices).
   • Enemy Types: Elite Anglo-Saxon Soldiers, including Shieldbearers, Berserkers, and multiple archer units. Expect siege equipment like ballistas and oil pots.
   • Recommended Loadout:
     • Melee: Greatsword or Dane Axe for crowd control and breaking shields.
     • Ranged: Hunter Bow for precision shots on archers and weak points.
     • Abilities: Dive of the Valkyries (for area damage), Rage of Helheim (for single-target burst), Man's Best Friend (for distraction).
   • Strategy Tips:
     • Breaching: Utilize the provided battering ram to break the main gate. Protect it from enemy fire.
     • Wall Defense: Use ladders or siege towers to scale the walls and eliminate archers and oil pot throwers.
     • Commander Fight: The opposing commander will be a formidable opponent. Look for environmental hazards (e.g., explosive pots) and parry opportunities. Focus on breaking their guard.
     • Common Pitfall: Rushing into the inner courtyard without clearing the walls can lead to being overwhelmed by ranged attacks.
   • Reward: Victory secures Caustow Castle for Ceolwulf's forces and significantly weakens the opposition. You will typically find valuable resources (Iron Ore, Leather) and sometimes a unique gear piece or weapon within the castle's treasure chests.
2. Dealing with Rogue Factions/Bandits: Throughout the questline, you may encounter smaller groups of bandits or Anglo-Saxon loyalists who refuse to acknowledge Ceolwulf.
   • Location: Various bandit camps and small outposts scattered across Sciropescire.
   • Objective: Eliminate these threats to ensure safe passage and stability for Ceolwulf's new domain.
   • Strategy: These encounters are generally straightforward. Stealth takedowns are efficient, or direct combat if preferred.
   • Rewards: Standard loot (silver, resources) and experience points.

Conclusion of Bartering:

Upon successfully navigating the diplomatic challenges with Bishop Deorlaf and eliminating the primary military opposition at Caustow Castle, Ceolwulf's claim to Mercia will be largely secured. Eivor will participate in a formal ceremony, solidifying the alliance and bringing Sciropescire under the Raven Clan's influence. This completes the "Bartering" quest arc, paving the way for future alliances and the expansion of your territory.

Rewards for Completing "Bartering":

• Significant XP gain.
• Alliance with Sciropescire, adding it to your Alliance Map.
• Various resources (e.g., Raw Materials for settlement upgrades).
• Potential unique gear or weapons, depending on loot found during the quest.
• A strengthened relationship with Ceolwulf and Ivarr (though Ivarr's true nature will be revealed in subsequent quests).

By following these steps and making informed choices, you will successfully guide Eivor through the complexities of Mercian politics and ensure Ceolwulf's rightful place on the throne, contributing significantly to the Raven Clan's growing power in England.