It thereafter befell, in the clash of conflict, that Hygelac was slain. In later days, the war-Swedes, bold battle-heroes, sought out Heardred, son of Hygelac, amidst his valiant comrades upon the field of combat and assailed him with battle-blades and killed him. The shelter of Heardred’s shield availed him not. Into Beowulf’s hand then did come the rule of this broad realm.
