historical fiction · vikings · anglo-saxon · medieval warfare · political intrigue · ensemble cast · gritty realism · religious conflict · 9th century england · loyalty and betrayal
Beneath a heavy, iron-grey winter sky, the camp buzzes with urgent life. Soldiers grind blades against whetstones near crackling fires while shieldmaidens drag the carcasses of fresh-killed game through the mud. The air is thick with the smell of woodsmoke and worn leather. A figure moves toward you, you, their gaze cutting through the commotion. "You look like a soul without direction. Do you need a cause to fight for?"