I hate fish.

Two days of festivities and an opportunity for me to have some fun and where did I find myself? That's right, working in uncle Eanfrid's shop. Of course, we weren't actually selling any fish because the shop was closed for the festivities. But Eanfrid wanted to take the opportunity to fix his broken cart. I tried to explain to him that I am hopeless carpenter, but he wouldn't listen.

"You must learn these trades my boy. Being a fishmonger isn't just about selling fish. You need to know how to tend to all the needs of the shop."

Of course, what Eanfrid still doesn't understand is that I don't want to be a fishmonger. One day I shall have to tell him the truth - that I do not want to follow in the family tradition. But his eyesight is so weak these days that he has come to rely on me to help run the store. And I do not have the courage to break an old man's heart.

"Yes uncle Eanfrid" was I all I could reply.

I was fortunate, though, to be given a short break and the opportunity to watch some of the competitions. By this stage, the crowds had gathered so I did not see very much. But I could have sworn through the gaps in the throng I saw Aelwyn, the innkeeper's daughter, riding on the back of some large brute while trying to bite his ear off! Although I have known Aelwyn for some years now, I did not take her to be such a vicious fighter.

Later in the evening, Eanfrid rewarded my hard work with a shilling so I headed to the inn. I decided to try my luck and found myself in a game of chance with Reeve Aldhelm and Gwynaeth. It turned out to be a good evening. Aldhelm was clearly not concentrating, and I could not resist taking advantage of the opportunity. By the end of the evening his purse was empty and mine was bulging! Never in my life have the Gods smiled upon me so favourably. I almost felt sorry for the poor Reeve. Almost. My new found wealth was immediately put to good use by buying a round of ale for everyone.

The next day I decided to enter the wrestling. I am not the stoutest of fighters, but I have learnt how to use my fists adequately. My first match was against Aelwyn. Remembering her fighting the day before, I began tentatively - not wanting to get too close. As it turned out, a single strike sent her shrieking in pain and victory was mine. My second fight was against Godmund. Bouyed with the confidence of beating Aelwyn, I was too brash in my approach and he beat me handily by using smarter tactics. It is a lesson I will need to remember in the future.

It was a great day. For a change, I felt young and free with a destiny of my choosing. Unfortunately, the next day I was back in the shop selling fish again. Wet, slimy, smelly fish.