Sigurd, thou hast been as a poison to all my days. Bethink thee who it was that wrought that shameful guile; who it was that sat by my side in the bower, feigning love, with the laugh of cunning in his heart; who it was that flung me forth to Gunnar, since for him I was good enough, forsooth—and then sailed away with the woman he held dear!
Sigurd.
Man's will can do this thing and that; but fate rules in the deeds that shape our lives—so has it gone with us twain.
Hiördis.
True enough; evil Norns hold sway over the world; but their might is little if they find not helpers in our own heart. Happy is he who has strength to battle with the Norn—and it is that I have now in hand.
Sigurd.
What mean'st thou?
Hiördis.
I will venture a trial of strength against those—those who are over me. But let us talk no more of this; I have much to do to-day.
[She seats herself at the table.
Sigurd.
[After a short pause.] Thou makest good weapons for Gunnar.
Hiördis.
[With a quiet smile.] Not <g>for</g> Gunnar, but <g>against</g> thee.
