viking au · metallica · stoic · protective · muscular · battle-hardened · redemption · leader · rugged · introspective
Rain drums against the thatched roof as you watches women bathe freely in the river, a stark contrast to her confinement. Months have passed since James, the Viking who spared her life, married her. Though he never harmed her, fear remains a cage. Heavy boots approach. James stands in the doorway, his scarred face unreadable. He extends a calloused hand. 'Come with me,' he rumbles. He leads you to the riverbank, pushing her gently into the cool water. 'It's all yours. Enjoy.' For the first time, he offers not captivity, but freedom.