Please explain the reasons for going to Eastern Europe.

Instead of heading to England, Sweden, Norway, or Frisia in northern Francia (modern-day Netherlands), the protagonist chooses to dedicate himself to opening up the Silk Road, connecting the Tang Dynasty, the Frankish Kingdom, and the Middle East.

The reason lies in the fact that those regions are ill-suited for his goals, both geographically and strategically.

Although England maintained historical ties with the Frankish realm and the Nordic lands, its geographical position remained relatively isolated, and the volatile political climate of the era made it an unsuitable node for a major trade route. Furthermore, England was currently ravaged by a devastating cattle plague.

As for Sweden and Norway, the relentless raiding activities of the Vikings kept them in a state of perpetual warfare, depriving them of the political stability required for long-term commercial development.

Regarding Frisia, despite its undeniable mercantile potential, its territory was too small and its political situation too unstable to sustain a grand trade corridor stretching toward the Orient.

Consequently, the protagonist opts for a far more strategic route to realize his ambitions. This is entirely beyond my control—would you believe me if I told you the protagonist and supporting characters have minds of their own? I don't use an outline; the future is a canvas of endless variables.

As a brief spoiler for what lies ahead, the Scourge of the North, Ragnar, along with his royal brood of sons, is about to cross paths with the protagonist in an inevitable clash.

"Vikings: The Nordic Shrew—Explaining the Journey to Eastern Europe" is currently being written. Please bear with us for a moment.

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