Assassin's Creed Valhalla challenges players with numerous mystery investigations that test their political acumen and attention to detail. During the Essexe story arc in the Old Wounds quest, Eivor is tasked with uncovering a traitor within Rollo's camp. Choosing the correct suspect requires investigating clues left behind at the camp and interviewing the potential culprits.
The Suspects Gerhild and Lork
When you begin the investigation at the camp, you are presented with two distinct suspects named Gerhild and Lork. Gerhild claims she was away hunting for meat, but her lack of an alibi raises immediate suspicion among the crew. On the other hand, Lork claims he was asleep in the tall grass during the attack, though his story also feels somewhat strained.
To solve the mystery, you must explore the surrounding camp to look for physical evidence left behind by the true culprit. Examining the meat racks reveals that the camp was well-stocked, making Gerhild's hunting alibi highly unlikely. Furthermore, talking to both characters reveals contradictions in their defensive statements regarding their loyalty to Rollo.
The True Traitor Revealed
The evidence collected points directly to Gerhild as the person who betrayed Rollo to the Saxons. Her deep-seated resentment toward Rollo's leadership and her romantic ties to a Saxon soldier fueled her betrayal. Accusing her right away ensures that justice is served swiftly according to Viking custom.
Lork is innocent of the primary betrayal, despite his suspicious behavior and nervous responses during the initial questioning. His secret was simply that he hid out of fear during the sudden Saxon raid on their position. Understanding these character motives helps Eivor make the right decision before moving forward with the alliance.
Consequences of Choosing Gerhild
If you correctly accuse Gerhild, Rollo will execute her on the spot to maintain discipline and secure his remaining forces. This decision prevents further internal sabotage and protects the crew during upcoming battle encounters. The camp remains united and focused on the impending political maneuvers across Essexe.
Later in the campaign, an innocent Lork will step up to defend Estrid during a critical ambush scenario. He safely absorbs a dangerous attack, ensuring that the target survives the extraction process without issue. This successful resolution provides the smoothest path forward for Eivor's long-term regional alliances.
Consequences of Choosing Lork
Accusing Lork results in his immediate execution, allowing the actual traitor to remain free and hidden among the ranks. Gerhild will pretend to accept the outcome while secretly continuing her sabotage from within the inner circle. This mistaken identity creates a dangerous situation that dynamic players will notice during later missions.
Because Gerhild survives your false accusation, she will strike again during the final segments of the regional story arc. During the crucial blood extraction scene, she will successfully ambush the camp and kill Lork if he is somehow still around or inflict severe narrative damage. Choosing the wrong person directly compromises the safety of your temporary companions.