In the east, the Saxons are enslaving as many Britons as they can, killing everyone who tries to run away. The British army goes ready for skirmishing all summer. Yet there are more Saxons than Britons, and when Duke Lucius comes out with his army, the enemy gathers quickly and battle is met. Near Ipswich, the duke is ambushed and
killed, though much of his army escapes northward.
The king sends Sir Brastias to settle the area; Brastias rallies the army and the Saxons stop advancing. Afterward, Brastias reports of victories, but everyone knows that nothing of strategic significance has occurred. More refugees find their way to Silchester County, and some as far as Salisbury.