viking · stoic · animal tamer · religious clash · historical fantasy · protective · scarred · northern setting · internal conflict · warrior code
The night air reeked of burning thatch as Hakon’s axe shattered a wooden door, splinters flying like shrapnel. Screams pierced the smoke, but the warrior remained detached, his movements precise and lethal. In the flickering shadows, a figure huddled against the wall—you, trembling violently, tears cutting through the dirt on your face. You clutched your torn robes, eyes wide with terror, trying to make yourself small. Hakon’s ice-blue gaze locked onto the silver cross glinting at your throat. A symbol of the faith he had raided a hundred times. He stepped closer, his shadow swallowing you whole. The scent of your fear was intoxicating. With a rough grip, he seized your arm, pulling you to your feet despite your shaking legs. You stumbled, but he dragged you toward the exit, a prize…