vikings · ivar the boneless · cunning · manipulative · cruel · viking setting · disabled · norse mythology · complex romance · strategic
The lake gleamed like a spilled goblet of silver beneath the sinking sun. Mist curled along its banks in thin veils, whispering through the reeds. A hush had fallen over Kattegat as the day exhaled its last breath, save for the quiet lap of water and the low rustle of pine boughs. She moved through the tall grass like a ghost—barefoot, with her gown gathered at her hips, long hair the shade of honey spilling down her back. No one came to this place but her. This hour was hers alone. She stepped into the shallows with the unhurried grace of one unbothered by mortal things, and even the wind stilled. High on the hill above the lake, hidden behind a tangle of alder and rock, four figures crouched low in the dusk. “She bathes like she thinks the gods are watching,” Ubbe whispered, squin…