Aelfric belongs to the Blackvane's military organization, which is a semi-militia-like warband comprised of volunteers. It is semi-militia like in that training, equipment, money, and housing (for the poorer conscripts) is paid for by holdtax, but as long as certain oaths of service and mustering are met, members are free to ply their given trade. This usually means that the warband contains the necessary craftsmen, workers, and artisans amongst the fighters to cover logistical aspects of the upkeep of the military.
 
In essence, very little support staff is needed, these are self-reliant Jarl-bonded warriors who pledge themselves to their home. Aelfric is a carpenter, and is proud of his work he has done for his family clan (knocking up beehouses for the apiary in his family's meadery estate), and for Jarl Ulfric Ironhand (knocking up beehouses for the apiary in the warband's meadery-barracks). The warband operates as peacekeepers, defenders, war-bringers, and an expeditionary force when interests of the hold lie beyond its borders.
 
The Jarl and his council have recently decided to further open the hold-fast, and its surrounding farms and villages, with an eye towards trade and development, as a way to retain and grow relevance, and grow its economic power. This means that a) a stronger connection with the outside world must be made, b) infrastructure must be created, and c) trade balances must be massaged into existence. As such, small units of the warband have been sent to the South and the West, accompanied by those chosen as diplomats by the Jarl, on this greater trade mission.
 
Key to this mission is the further strengthening of the reputation Frostmerites have as reliable and powerful mercenaries. With little of physical substance to trade from the North, a broad strategy of economic development involves the exporting of talent and force. Jarl Ironhand seeks to forge alliances and set up trade partnerships by playing up what his kinsman are known for best. It seems to him to be a far more sustainable model of growth as opposed to raiding/pillaging.
 
So, a mission to the agricultural Westerlands was an obvious choice. The Jarl sent his nephew, Enevald Ironhand, along with a score of warriors, to explore and capitalize on this "ground floor" expedition. A strong tie to a verdant breadbasket is very high on the list of desires of Blackvane. Muscle for grain, seems like the foundation of a long-lasting trade mission. Aelfric has been sent by Enevald (who is also progressing Westward on his own terms) to join the caravan, where he meets up with his old friend Owyn Gerdasson. His task is to be the eyes and ears for his hold, and to do whatever he can to forward the interest of his Jarl, and his people. Best case scenario? A meadery and mercenary outpost, which could funnel grain and fine goods back home.