The sun began to set over Kattegat, casting long shadows across the town. In the Jarl's longhouse, the main hall was filled with the remnants of the day's activity, but now, silence reigned. Magnus sat alone, his anger still simmering despite the hours that had passed since Thorfinn's return. His room lay in disarray, furniture overturned and items scattered. In his rage, he had smashed several pieces, leaving a trail of destruction.
Magnus stormed into the main hall and sank into his father's throne, the weight of his frustration heavy on his shoulders. He snapped his fingers at a passing slave girl. "Bring me a drink," he ordered curtly.
The girl scurried away and quickly returned with a cup of mead. Magnus grabbed it roughly from her hands, barely acknowledging her presence. "Where is my sister?" he barked at one of the guards, the same one who had urged him not to make a scene with Thorfinn earlier.
"The men following her said she went with Thorfinn. They're still at Rollo's house," the guard replied.
Magnus scowled, his grip tightening on the cup until it cracked. "Go and get her. I don't want her being seen with him anymore."
"Yes, lord," the guard replied before leaving the hall, leaving Magnus to stew in his thoughts. His mind churned with anger and jealousy as he thought about Thorfinn. He had loved Rebekah since she first blossomed into a woman. He had showered her and her brothers with gifts, yet she did not even give him a second look. He had to urge his father to arrange a marriage between them. It would have been perfect, but Thorfinn had come and stolen it all from him. He had come and bloodied her flower, putting his seed in her and making her grow heavy with his child. The cup cracked further under his tightening grip. "What's so damn special about him? Why do the gods favour him so?" he muttered to himself.
Just then, Jarl Bjarni walked in with several members of his party. The man was loud and obnoxious, his presence filling the room with an unpleasant aura. He grabbed a slave girl, pulling her close and feeling her up with greasy hands.
"Why is there no feast?" Bjarni bellowed, his voice grating.
Magnus, in a poor mood, gritted his teeth. "There will be no feast tonight," he replied, his tone barely concealing his anger.
Bjarni frowned, his face contorting in a spoiled grimace. "I wanted a feast. It's the only thing that's fun in this shithole."
Magnus had to stop himself from lashing out at Bjarni's disrespect. "The people of Kattegat have had their fill. They would likely not show," he said through clenched teeth.
Bjarni scowled and ordered a slave girl to get him some food. When the food arrived, he ate disgustingly, ripping chunks of meat and letting the grease drip down his beard. "What's wrong with you, boy? You look like you've had a hot poker stuck up your arse," he laughed, bits of food flying from his mouth.
Magnus found the man before him repulsive, to the point where he actually felt some sympathy for his sister. "I received some bad news this morn," he replied, his voice low.
"Bad news? What, are those annoying followers of Ragnar stirring up trouble?" Bjarni asked, looking up briefly from his meal.
"In a way," Magnus replied. He paused, gathering his thoughts. "A young man, Thorfinn Fjallsson, he was sent away on a task to slay the leviathan. In return, he would earn Rebekah's hand in marriage."
"I've heard of Rebekah Mikaelsdottir. Even in Svealand, they say she is as beautiful as a Valkyrie. I regret I never got to see her on my visit," Bjarni said, adjusting his trousers and licking his lips lecherously.
Magnus couldn't help but let slip a look of disdain, but luckily Bjarni was too enthralled with thoughts of Rebekah to notice. "Thorfinn returned today with the heart of the leviathan. He has won Rebekah's hand in marriage. He has taken what was rightfully mine," Magnus continued, shouting the last part and throwing his cup across the room.
"I fail to see why this need be bad news," Jarl Bjarni chuckled as he took another chunk of meat.
"Were you not listening? He has taken what is mine! Mikael gave his word in front of damn near everyone in the village, the same people who just saw him return!" Magnus shouted.
"So kill him," Bjarni said with a shrug, continuing to feast. "Ragnar and most of his supporters are on the grand hunt. What could he do if you attacked him during the night?"
Magnus went to refute him but paused. He was right. Thorfinn was alone and entirely within his power. The only person capable of helping him would have been that bitch Lagertha, but neither of them could survive against the men he had. A smile crept onto Magnus' face. Yes... he would kill him.
"Thorfinn won't last the night," Magnus said, smiling darkly.
———————————————————
Thorfinn leaned back in the large wooden tub, sighing in contentment as the warm water enveloped him. Lagertha had been kind enough to heat the water and fill the tub, a luxury he was deeply grateful for after his ordeal. He had added a few herbs to the water, knowing they would soothe the bruises and aches that still covered his body. The warmth and the herbs worked their magic, and he felt his muscles relax for the first time in days.
He let his thoughts wander, glad to be home. He longed to see Rebekah and tell her the good news, to hold her and assure her that they could now marry without fear. But his mind was also on Darkmoon Forest, a place known for its dangers and the unsavoury people who sought refuge there. It was home to predators of all kinds, but the most feared were the Ulfhednar, men who could transform into wolves. He had fought one such man in Northumbria and had barely escaped with his life. A whole clan of them would be a formidable threat. He wondered if Arwyn was still in the surrounding forests or if she had joined Ragnar for the hunt. Either way, it was a problem he couldn't ignore.
Pushing those thoughts away, he focused on the present. The warm water was a welcome comfort, though his peace was interrupted by a throbbing headache. These had started after he left the island with the leviathan, the first one occurring just after he had eaten parts of the creature's skull. Each headache brought with it a strange clarity, making the world seem sharper and his mind more focused. He reached out his hand, speaking an incantation in Old Norse. "Rǽdee ásce geotan," he muttered, and his eyes glowed gold as the cup of mead on the table floated to his hand. This spell had always been difficult for him, draining his energy quickly, but now it felt almost effortless.
There were other changes, too. He raised his hand and touched the surface of the water, watching as it rippled violently. He didn't understand what was happening to him, but it was something to think about later. For now, he closed his eyes and tried to relax.
His peace was interrupted by the sound of someone entering Rollo's chambers. He opened his eyes to see Thyri smiling at him as she approached and sat next to the tub. "Lagertha asked me to tell you that supper is almost ready," she said.
Thorfinn hummed in acknowledgment. "Did she also tell you to sit next to the tub?" he asked with a smirk.
Thyri giggled. "No, but I thought you might need some help washing due to your... injuries."
Thorfinn's grin widened. "I'm not that badly injured."
Ignoring his protest, Thyri picked up a cloth and began to wipe his body. Her touch was gentle, her movements slow and deliberate. The atmosphere between them grew charged with a tension that neither could deny. Thorfinn could feel the softness of her hands against his skin, the way she inspected every bruise and scar with a mixture of concern and curiosity.
"Do you think your future husband would be happy knowing you're washing another man's body?" he joked, trying to lighten the mood.
Thyri smiled, but there was a hint of sadness in her eyes. "If my future husband knew what bathing was, he might be angry," she replied, making Thorfinn laugh.
As the laughter faded, a quiet settled over them. "It's coming closer, isn't it?" Thyri asked softly.
"What is?" Thorfinn replied, though he already knew the answer.
"The tipping point... the conflict, the fight between everyone," she said, her voice heavy with sadness.
Thorfinn nodded. "It will."
Thyri dropped the cloth and leaned her head on Thorfinn's shoulder, wrapping an arm around him. "My father is going to die, isn't he?" she whispered, tears welling in her eyes. She remembered her father as a younger man, full of energy and fire, telling her stories and playing with her. But those days were long gone, and she knew he couldn't stand against men like Ragnar or Thorfinn.
Thorfinn placed a comforting hand on her arm. "He will," he said softly.
"And there's no other way?" she asked, her voice breaking. Memories of her father's kindness and love mingled with the harsh reality of their current situation.
"I'm sorry," Thorfinn replied, his heart aching for her. He hated the Jarl, but he could sympathize with Thyri's pain.
She wiped her eyes and gave him a small smile. "I know these are the ways of war. Only one side can truly win. But may I ask for one boon?"
Thorfinn nodded.
"Please spare my mother and brother... I don't want to lose them," she said, tears streaming down her face.
"Even if your brother has been awful to you as of late?" Thorfinn asked.
"Magnus is good... I know he is... I know he can be if given another chance," Thyri said, her voice filled with hope.
Thorfinn sighed. "I won't kill Magnus if I can help it, but I cannot save him either. His fate is Lagertha's to decide. He helped in Knut's attempt to rape her, so I will not take away whatever form of justice she sees fit to provide."
Thyri was shocked by Thorfinn's words. She knew Magnus could be cruel, but she had never imagined he would stoop so low. "I see," she said quietly.
"But I promise I will keep your mother safe. No man shall harm her," Thorfinn guaranteed. "Though after what the Jarl has done, she won't be safe here. I will have to send her to my farmstead."
Thyri smiled through her tears and thanked Thorfinn. She leaned forward and kissed him slowly, their lips meeting in a tender yet passionate embrace. The kiss was warm, tasting of salt and the sea, leaving them both breathless. Their eyes locked, a silent understanding passing between them.
"You should finish up soon," Thyri whispered before standing and leaving the room. Thorfinn's eyes followed her, lingering on her retreating figure, before he leaned back in the tub.
...
Thorfinn emerged from Rollo's room, feeling the freshest he had in weeks. The warm bath had done wonders for his sore muscles and bruised body. He joined Thyri, Lagertha, and Bjorn at the table, his wet hair hanging loosely around his shoulders. Lagertha smiled warmly at him and served him a bowl of hot stew, which he eagerly began to eat. The rich, savoury broth and tender pieces of meat were a far cry from the dried rations he had subsisted on during his journey. Each spoonful brought a sense of comfort and satisfaction he had sorely missed.
"Thank you, Lagertha," he said, genuinely grateful as he took another hearty spoonful. "This is the best meal I've had in ages."
Lagertha simply nodded, her eyes glinting with curiosity and expectation. Thyri and Bjorn shared the same look, their food untouched as they waited for Thorfinn to speak. Thorfinn found their anticipation amusing and continued to eat, savouring every bite.
Finally, Bjorn, unable to contain his impatience, blurted out, "Will you tell us now?"
Thorfinn chuckled, putting his spoon down. "Tell you what?" he asked, feigning ignorance.
"Thorfinn, come on," Thyri nudged him, a playful smile on her face.
"Alright, alright," Thorfinn said, taking a swig from his cup before beginning his tale. "Well, it all started when I left Kattegat..."
He paused, collecting his thoughts, before continuing. "The journey north was brutal. The waves grew larger and more ferocious as I sailed further, the cold biting through my clothes. The first time I saw the Leviathan, it was like nothing I'd ever seen. Its massive tentacles thrashed through the water, and the storm above seemed to be trying to strike it down with lightning. I was caught off guard and my ship was sunk. I thought I was done for, sinking into the depths, but then... a strange man appeared."
Thorfinn's eyes narrowed slightly, remembering the surreal encounter. "He saved me. Pulled me from the sea and gave me a new boat, blessed by the gods. I later learned he was Freyr. With his help, I was able to sail again, but this time I was ready."
He leaned forward, the intensity of the memories showing in his eyes. "I faced the Leviathan again. The battle was fierce. The tentacles of the beast were everywhere, crashing down around me. I used the harpoons blessed by Thor, throwing them with all my might. Each one acted like a beacon, drawing down the thunder to strike the beast."
He paused to take another drink, his throat dry from recounting the harrowing tale. Thyri, Lagertha, and Bjorn leaned in, hanging on his every word.
"I had to manoeuvre around those tentacles, dodging and weaving, keeping the ship steady in the storm. At one point, the Leviathan lifted my ship right out of the water. I was nearly thrown overboard but managed to shrink the boat and carry it in my pouch, clinging to the tentacle for dear life. I could see an island in the distance, a barren place where I knew I had to make my stand."
Thorfinn's eyes flickered with the memory of that desperate moment. "I stabbed my sword into the tentacle to stop it from falling, sliding down and jumping from one tentacle to another, trying to avoid the creature's massive jaws. The Leviathan was relentless, but I managed to throw another harpoon just as one of its tentacles fell into its mouth. A massive bolt of lightning struck, and the beast screamed in pain."
"When I fell from the tentacle I took my boat back out of my pouch and it grew again, I grabbed onto it and rode a wave over to where the island was. It was there I stabbed five harpoons into the ground and lured the creature over..." Throfinn looked to them all, they were enraptured in the story, Bjorn was almost off of his chair listening.
"It was then I truly witnessed the wrath of Thor, a lightning bolt so powerful that for moments after I was blind and deaf, as if Thor had replaced his anvil with the head of the creature."
"When I could see again I saw the remains of the creature, its flesh burnt and bubbling with blisters... I had won." He looked around at his captivated audience, seeing their wide-eyed expressions. "After which I sailed back to Kattegat, dragging the heart of the beast with me."
Lagertha, Bjorn, and Thyri were silent for a moment, processing the incredible tale. Then Lagertha spoke, her voice full of admiration. "You truly are blessed by the gods, Thorfinn."
Thyri nodded, her eyes shining with pride. "And to think, you did all that for Rebekah."
Thorfinn smiled. "Yes, for Rebekah... always." Thorfinn had chosen to leave some things out of the story. He couldn't mention the sword of Freyr nor could he mention that the ship he used was Freyrs own ship that had been given to him. Despite trusting Lagertha and Bjorn, he did not so easily trust Thyri, and it only took one person to waggle their tongue for a secret to become common knowledge.
Bjorn leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms over his chest, a sceptical look on his face. "A boat that can grow and shrink? That doesn't sound possible, Thorfinn," he said, his voice laced with doubt. "How can a boat change its size like that? It sounds like something out of a child's story."
Thorfinn shrugged, a knowing smile playing on his lips. "The gods are capable of many things, Bjorn," he replied. "Freyr himself blessed the boat. It's not for us to understand how it works, only to be grateful for the help we receive."
Bjorn frowned, still unconvinced. "But how does it work? Did you see it happen?"
Thorfinn nodded. "I did. I watched as it changed before my eyes, going from a small, palm-sized figure to a full-sized ship capable of withstanding the roughest seas. It's not something I can explain, only something I witnessed."
Lagertha chimed in, her voice soft but firm. "We have all seen things we cannot explain, Bjorn. The gods have their ways, and they choose to reveal them when needed," she said as she hugged her son and rubbed his head.
The sound of banging on the door drew them all out of their conversation. Thorfinn stood up quickly, his muscles tensed. Lagertha followed suit, her eyes narrowing as she moved to grab her axe. She tossed Thorfinn his sword, which he unsheathed with a swift, practised motion. The blade gleamed in the dim light, and he nodded at Lagertha, who mirrored his gesture.
With a deep breath, Thorfinn opened the door, his sword pointed directly at the neck of one of Magnus' guards. The guard, a burly man with a scowl etched into his face, raised his hands in a gesture of peace.
"I come in peace," the guard said hurriedly. "I'm here on Magnus' orders to bring Thyri home."
Despite the explanation, Thorfinn didn't lower his sword. His eyes bore into the guard, and his killing intent was palpable, causing the man to shift nervously on his feet.
"Thorfinn, it's okay," Thyri said softly from behind him, placing a calming hand on his arm. "Don't cause any trouble. I'll go."
Reluctantly, Thorfinn lowered his sword, his jaw tight with frustration. "Will you be okay?" he asked, his voice a low growl.
Thyri nodded, giving him a reassuring smile. "I'll be fine." She then turned to Lagertha, offering her gratitude. "Thank you for allowing me to stay."
With that, Thyri left with the guard, leaving Thorfinn and Lagertha to watch them disappear into the night.
As Thorfinn closed the door, both he and Lagertha visibly relaxed. They returned to the table, Lagertha refilling their cups. Thorfinn took a long drink before speaking.
"Why are you staying here, Lagertha? Surely it's too dangerous," he said, concern evident in his tone.
Lagertha nodded, acknowledging the risk. "It is, but it's a risk I must take. Everyone knows me as the fierce shieldmaiden, Ragnar's wife. If I were to run and hide, it would reflect badly on all of us and draw more men to the Jarl's side."
Thorfinn understood her reasoning but still thought it was too great a risk. "Perhaps you should go to my farmstead on the morrow."
Lagertha raised an eyebrow. "Where do you plan to go?"
"I will be heading towards Darkmoon Forest," Thorfinn replied.
Lagertha looked like she was about to argue but then chose to simply respond with, "Be safe."
"I always am," Thorfinn said with a half-smile, taking another sip of his drink.
———————————————————
Magnus stood outside, gazing up at the moon hanging high in the sky. It was at the apex of its height, casting a cold, silver light over Kattegat. Most of the town's people were asleep, their homes dark and silent. He clenched his fists, feeling the weight of his father's expectations bearing down on him.
Turning away from the moon, Magnus walked back into the great hall of his longhouse. Inside, a group of around thirty men waited, all armed and ready for orders. The air was thick with the smell of sweat and leather, mingled with the rancid stench of Jarl Bjarni, who was still gorging himself at a table nearby. Magnus felt a surge of disgust as he sat on his father's throne, the sight of Bjarni's greasy beard and blackened teeth making his stomach churn.
"You all know why you are here," Magnus boomed out, his voice echoing off the wooden walls. "Because you are men, loyal men, and you know that threats to mine and my father's rule must be eradicated!" His shout was met with a chorus of cheers from the gathered men.
"The person who brings me Thorfinn's head will receive five pounds of silver. The person who brings me Lagertha the Shieldmaiden alive will get to have her after I do," he added with a smirk, watching the men exchange eager glances.
"Third!" Jarl Bjarni spat out, food flying everywhere as he barked his demand.
Magnus breathed heavily, trying to contain his anger. "Whomever captures her alive will be able to have her third, as well as three pounds of silver." He knew no man would want to take a woman after Bjarni had had his way, but the promise of silver would ensure she was brought to him nonetheless.
"Before the sun is in the sky, I want Thorfinn dead!" Magnus shouted, his eyes gleaming with malice. After he was dead, he would travel to the farmstead and take Rebekah, cut that bastard out of her belly, and dash its brains against the wall.
"Do you understand me?!"
"Yes, lord!!!" they replied in unison.
However, unknown to Magnus, he was being watched. His sister Thyri had seen the whole thing, her sleep disturbed by the sounds of numerous men entering their home. Hidden in the shadows, she covered her mouth in shock, staring at her brother who had become unrecognizable. At that moment, she realized there was no redemption for him; his mind had been poisoned beyond repair.
"I have to warn them," she whispered to herself, her heart pounding. She turned and rushed back to her room, quickly climbing out of her window into the night.
The cool night air stung her face as she ran, barefoot and desperate. She moved silently through the darkened streets of Kattegat, her mind racing with thoughts of Thorfinn and Lagertha. She knew she had to reach them before Magnus's men did. Her feet pounded against the ground, her breath coming in ragged gasps, but she didn't stop. She couldn't stop.
———————————————————
Thorfinn sat by the fire, the flickering flames casting shadows across his rugged face. In his hands, he held a piece of wood, methodically whittling away at it. Bjorn and Lagertha had long since gone to sleep, leaving him alone with his thoughts. After they had retired, he had eaten more of the meat from the leviathan. Another headache had come over him, this one almost strong enough to make him pass out, but he managed to hold on.
Hours had passed since then, and now he sat quietly, contemplating the changes he felt within himself. Eating the meat of the leviathan had increased his magic and intelligence, or so it seemed. He found himself making connections he had missed before, ones that now seemed so obvious. His hand-eye coordination had also improved. He wondered if this was what the Romans were like, discovering and building wonders only great minds could conceive.
He looked down at the wood in his hands, realizing he had absentmindedly sculpted a small figure of Rebekah. A gentle smile crossed his lips. "I'll be home soon, my love," he whispered softly.
BANG BANG BANG
For the second time that day, Thorfinn grabbed his sword and unsheathed it. There was no reason for someone to be visiting at this hour, so he tensed his muscles, ready to strike. When he opened the door, he was surprised to see Thyri standing there, soaked from the rain that had just started to pour outside.
"Thyri? What's wrong?" Thorfinn asked, ushering her inside quickly.
Thyri was hysterical, shivering and struggling to get her words out. "Thorfinn, you need to leave... they're coming... a large group... to kill you... take Lagertha," she stammered through chattering teeth.
Thorfinn placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Calm down, Thyri. Breathe. Tell me what's happening."
Thyri took a deep breath, her eyes wide with fear. "Magnus... he's sent men to kill you and take Lagertha. They're coming now," she finally managed to say.
Thorfinn's fists clenched, and he stood up immediately. "Stay here," he said, moving swiftly towards Rollo's room where Lagertha and Bjorn slept. He shook them both awake. "Lagertha, Bjorn, we have to move. Now."
Returning to Thyri, Thorfinn said, "You need to take Bjorn and head to the outskirts of the forest."
"Why?!" Thyri cried hysterically.
"I might have men loyal to me still camping out there. You need to tell them what's happening," Thorfinn explained.
"Why don't we all go?" Thyri asked, panic rising in her voice.
"They won't chase you two, but they will if we all go. Lagertha and I will have to survive until you can arrive with help," Thorfinn said firmly.
"What if there are no men?" Thyri shouted, her fear palpable.
"Then take Bjorn to my farmstead. You both should be safe there for a while," Thorfinn replied.
Lagertha, now fully awake, hurriedly got Bjorn ready. The boy was reluctant, his warrior spirit wanting to stay and fight. Lagertha knelt in front of him, kissing his forehead. "Thyri needs someone to protect her, and I need you to help bring reinforcements." Bjorn, though still reluctant, nodded. Thorfinn opened the back door for them, watching as they ran out into the night, leaving him and Lagertha alone.
Thorfinn and Lagertha stood in the dim light of the house, the only sounds the pattering of rain on the roof and the creaking of the wooden floorboards. Their breaths were steady, but their muscles tensed as they heard multiple footsteps approaching from outside. Thorfinn nodded to Lagertha, who held a sword and shield, her nightgown cut at the thighs for better movement. Thorfinn was just as indecently dressed, wearing only hosurs and boots, wielding his sword with both hands.
The first man reached the door, and Thorfinn charged at it, sinking his blade through the wood. A grunt of pain came from the other side, and the man slumped against the door, dead. The battle began in earnest as the front and back doors were broken down simultaneously.
Thorfinn was a blur of motion. He grabbed an axe from the wall and hurled it at a man coming through the back door. The axe embedded itself in the man's chest, and he fell backwards, gurgling. Thorfinn then turned his attention to the front door, where another man had just stepped in. He swung his sword, but the man parried with his own blade, sparks flying.
Lagertha moved into Rollo's room, making sure no one could sneak in from that side. A man tried to follow her, but she was ready, her shield bashing into his face and breaking his nose. Blood spurted out, and she followed up with a swift cut to his throat, silencing him forever.
Back in the main room, Thorfinn was engaged in a brutal exchange. He kicked a man in the knee, the joint snapping with a sickening crunch. The man screamed and fell, but another was right behind him, swinging a heavy club. Thorfinn barely dodged, the club grazing his shoulder, sending a shock of pain through him. He responded with a quick stab to the attacker's gut, twisting the blade to maximize the damage.
Lagertha was holding her own as well. She slashed at another man, her blade cutting through muscle and bone. Blood sprayed, and she used her shield to bash another attacker into the wall. The man tried to grab her shield, but she twisted it free and smashed it into his face, teeth and blood flying.
Thorfinn punched a man in the face, feeling the bones crunch under his knuckles. He kicked another in the stomach, sending him crashing into a table, which splintered under the impact. A third man lunged at him with a knife, and Thorfinn deflected the attack with his forearm before slashing the man's throat. Blood poured out, and the man fell to the floor, choking.
Lagertha parried a sword thrust, using her shield to push the attacker off balance before driving her blade into his heart. Another man came at her with an axe, and she ducked under his swing, coming up behind him and slicing open his back. He fell to his knees, screaming, and she finished him with a swift decapitation.
The fight was fierce and unrelenting. Thorfinn grabbed a stool and smashed it over a man's head, the wood breaking apart as the man collapsed. He spun around, deflecting a sword strike with his own blade and countering with a brutal cut to the man's chest. The attacker fell back, clutching the wound as blood gushed out. Thorfinn ducked under a swing as he sliced upwards, cutting a man's arm clean off. Blood sprayed from the severed limb, but before he could revel in his small victory, a large man slammed his shoulder into him, sending Thorfinn crashing into the wall. The impact knocked the breath out of him, but he spun out of the way just in time to avoid another man trying to impale him. The assailant's sword got stuck in the wood of the wall, and Thorfinn took advantage of the moment, slicing the man's neck in half. The man gurgled, falling to the ground, but Thorfinn was given no time to rest. The large man picked him up effortlessly and hurled him across the room.
Meanwhile, Lagertha was pushed backwards out of Rollo's room by a man wielding a shield of his own. She saw another attacker behind her, ready to strike, and she quickly dropped her shield, rolling forward just in time to avoid the blow, letting the man's friend hit him instead. She twirled around, slashing a large gash along the back of the man who had first pushed her.
"Lagertha!" Thorfinn's warning came just in time for her to dodge a spear thrown by another attacker at the door. The spear embedded itself in the wall, and Lagertha grabbed an axe from one of the dead guards, throwing it back with deadly accuracy.
Thorfinn found himself engaged in brutal combat with the large man who swung his club like it was a feather. Thorfinn ducked under a swing, trying to slice the man's belly open, but the brute stepped back, avoiding the cut. Thorfinn leapt to the side, letting the club hit the floor, then used it as a springboard to jump up and smash his knee into the man's face. The man roared in pain and fury, swinging his club horizontally. Thorfinn managed to block the blow with his sword, but the force of it threw him across the room again.
He rolled to his feet, but his sword had been tossed away, leaving him in a precarious position in the midst of three attackers. He paused for a moment, his mind rapidly assessing the situation. The first man swung at him, and Thorfinn dodged, ducking and grabbing the dagger from his boot. He stabbed the second man who was about to strike, then snatched up the falling man's axe and embedded it in the first attacker's head. Spinning around, he grabbed the third man's arm, twisting it and throwing him to the ground with a move he had learned from one of his many books. Thorfinn mounted the man, pressing the dagger into his skull, ending his life swiftly.
Looking up, Thorfinn saw the large man taking an interest in Lagertha, who was pinned against the wall by a man with a spear. She headbutted her assailant, kicked him in the groin, and pushed off the wall, sending him to the ground. But the large man was closing in, club raised high. Thorfinn's eyes widened in panic, knowing she wouldn't dodge in time. He saw the spear embedded in the wall and shouted, "Fleoge!" His eyes glowed gold, and the spear flew from the wall, embedding itself in the large man's skull.
The giant fell to the ground with a loud thunk. Thorfinn grabbed his sword and rushed to Lagertha. Together, they stumbled out of the house through a window. Once outside, Thorfinn turned around, holding his hand out, and shouted, "Forbaerne! Ácwele!" His eyes glowed gold once more, and a small ball of fire erupted from his hand, engulfing the house in flames. The guards still outside were thrown to the ground by the explosion, some catching fire and screaming in agony.
Thorfinn and Lagertha ran away from the flaming house, their breaths coming in heavy pants. The night air was thick with the acrid scent of burning wood and the metallic tang of blood. They could hear the shouts of more attackers closing in. They had no choice but to run, fighting their way through the darkened streets of Kattegat.
The rain was falling harder now, the cold drops mingling with the sweat and blood that covered their bodies. Thorfinn gripped his sword tightly, the blade slick with the blood of those he had already killed. Lagertha, with her sword and a shield she'd taken from one of the dead bodies. They fought side by side, cutting down anyone who dared to approach them. As they moved through the village, they were forced into narrow alleys and cramped spaces between buildings. Thorfinn kicked a door open, shoving a guard through it and into the small home. The man crashed into a table, and Thorfinn followed, his sword flashing as he delivered a fatal blow.
Lagertha found herself cornered in a small courtyard, three men advancing on her. She raised her shield, deflecting a blow from one, while she slashed at another, opening a deep gash in his thigh. The third man tried to flank her, but she swung her shield around, knocking him to the ground. She stepped forward, driving her sword into his chest. Thorfinn fought his way back to her, cutting through a man who tried to block his path. His muscles burned with exertion, and his vision blurred from the rain and sweat. He saw Lagertha dispatching her attackers ruthlessly, but more were coming. They had to keep moving.
"Go!" Thorfinn shouted, pointing towards a narrow alley. Lagertha nodded, and they took off, sprinting through the village with their enemies in pursuit. The dirt was slick beneath their feet, and they slipped and stumbled as they ran. Thorfinn could hear the pounding footsteps behind them, the shouts of their pursuers growing louder. They sprinted down a narrow alley, the wooden walls of the houses pressing in on them. The rain made the ground slick, and Thorfinn slipped, barely catching himself in time to parry a thrust from a spear. He countered with a vicious slash that opened his assailant's throat, hot blood spraying across his face.
Lagertha blocked a downward swing with her shield, the force of the blow numbing her arm. She retaliated with a quick stab to the ribs, twisting the blade to maximize the damage. They were forced into a larger street, where the fighting intensified. Thorfinn grabbed a discarded axe from the ground and hurled it at an approaching enemy, the weapon burying itself in the man's chest with a sickening thud. He swung his sword in a wide arc, the blade meeting another foe's neck and sending his head rolling across the cobblestones.
Lagertha was beset by two attackers. She ducked under a wild swing and drove her shield into one man's face, breaking his nose with a crunch. She spun around, catching the second man with a slash across the chest, but a third appeared, catching her off guard. He tackled her, sending them both crashing through the door of a nearby house.
Thorfinn glanced back, seeing Lagertha disappear into the building. He cursed, cutting down another opponent before following her inside. The interior was dimly lit, the flickering light from the fireplace casting eerie shadows. He heard the sounds of struggle and followed them to a back room.
Lagertha was pinned against the wall, her assailant's hands around her throat. Thorfinn roared, charging forward and slamming into the man, sending him sprawling. Lagertha coughed, gasping for air, but she nodded to Thorfinn, signalling that she was okay. They exited the house, only to be met by a fresh wave of attackers. The fight pushed them toward the centre of the village, where the main square opened up in front of the longhouse. They were separated momentarily as a group of attackers forced Thorfinn down one street and Lagertha down another. Thorfinn fought his way back, his muscles burning from exertion, his breath coming in ragged gasps. He saw Lagertha battling near a market stall, blood streaming down her face from a gash on her forehead.
"Lagertha!" he shouted, cutting his way through the throng of enemies.
She turned to him, but in that moment of distraction, a spear pierced her side. She cried out, stumbling back, her hand clutching the wound. Thorfinn's vision went red with rage. He hacked through the last of the attackers cutting them down like they were wheat beneath his scythe. He reached Lagertha as she fell to her knees, blood pouring from the wound in her side. He caught her, lowering her gently to the ground. Her breath was shallow, her skin pale.
"Stay with me, Lagertha," Thorfinn said, his voice trembling with urgency.
Thorfinn crouched in the middle of the square, holding Lagertha close to his chest. The rain poured down on them, soaking them both to the bone. Blood mixed with the rainwater, creating a grim reminder of the battle that had just unfolded. Attackers still surrounded them, their weapons drawn, waiting for the final command. Thorfinn's grip on his sword tightened, his eyes scanning the hostile faces around him.
Then, Magnus strode out of the longhouse, Jarl Bjarni stumbling beside him. Magnus' face twisted into a cruel smile as he looked down at Thorfinn.
"You survived longer than I expected you to, but it's over now," Magnus said, his voice dripping with disdain. "You fought honourably. Now let the Valkyries guide you to Valhalla."
Jarl Bjarni, standing unsteadily, shouted, "The woman is dying! I won't get to fuck her!" Spittle flew from his mouth, his face red with frustration.
Thorfinn's scowl deepened. "I will kill you," he hissed, his voice low and deadly. He tightened his grip on Lagertha, shielding her from the advancing men.
Magnus smirked and nodded to his men. "Kill them both," he ordered, ignoring Bjarni's complaints.
As the attackers moved forward, a sound echoed through the courtyard. At first, it was a distant murmur, but it grew louder and louder, filling the air. It was a war cry, fierce and unyielding. Thorfinn's heart leapt as he recognized the voices.
Suddenly, men poured into the courtyard, clashing with Magnus's forces. They were Thorfinn's men, the ones from his farmstead. Relief washed over him, and a smile spread across his face. His friends had come to fight. The battle erupted in a chaotic frenzy. Thorfinn laid Lagertha gently on the ground and surged to his feet, his sword flashing in the dim light. He plunged into the fray, hacking and slashing at the attackers. Blood sprayed as his blade cut through flesh and bone. One of Magnus's men lunged at Thorfinn with a spear. Thorfinn sidestepped the thrust and sliced the man's arm off at the elbow. The attacker screamed, clutching the bleeding stump, Thorfinn soon ended the screaming by shoving his sword into his mouth and out the back of his throat.
Nearby, one of Thorfinn's men grappled with an opponent, slamming the man's head into a stone wall repeatedly until his skull cracked open, brains spilling out. Another man from Thorfinn's farmstead tackled an enemy to the ground, bashing his face in with a rock until it was an unrecognizable mess of blood and bone. Thorfinn fought his way toward Magnus, cutting down anyone who dared to stand in his path. His blade found its mark again and again, leaving a trail of broken bodies in his wake.
Lagertha, struggling to stay conscious, watched the battle unfold through a haze of pain. She smiled however as she saw Thorfinns men decimate the Jarls, their strength and speed seeming to be above theirs. Jarl Bjarni, seeing the tide turning, tried to flee. But one of Thorfinn's men caught him by the collar and dragged him back into the fray. Bjarni screamed, begging for mercy, but his pleas fell on deaf ears. He was tossed to the ground, and his head was caved in with a single, brutal strike from a hammer.
Magnus, realizing his men were losing, turned to run back into the longhouse. Thorfinn saw him and roared in fury. He charged forward, shoving aside an attacker and slashing the throat of another. Thorfinn chased Magnus into the longhouse, his sword raised high. As he brought it down with all his might, Magnus turned just in time, raising his own sword to defend himself. The clash of iron echoed through the hall, sparks flying from the impact.
They circled each other, eyes locked with hatred. "You think you can take everything from me, you bastard?" Magnus spat, swinging his sword at Thorfinn. Thorfinn blocked the blow and countered with a vicious strike to Magnus's side, but Magnus twisted away.
"I'm going to fuck Rebekah with your head on the table next to us," Magnus sneered, slashing at Thorfinn's leg. Thorfinn dodged, kicking a chair into Magnus's path, but Magnus simply smashed it aside.
Their duel was brutal and dirty, each move designed to cause maximum pain. Thorfinn managed to land a solid punch to Magnus's ribs, but Magnus retaliated by jabbing his fingers into one of Thorfinn's open wounds, tearing at it to make it bleed more. Thorfinn roared in pain, slamming Magnus against a wall, knocking over a shelf of drinking horns and sending them crashing to the ground.
Magnus used the distraction to elbow Thorfinn in the face, blood splattering from his nose. They grappled, throwing each other into tables and chairs, the longhouse turning into a war zone. Thorfinn swung his sword, but Magnus ducked and kicked Thorfinn's legs out from under him. As Thorfinn fell, Magnus tore at another wound, making Thorfinn scream in agony.
Magnus kicked Thorfinn's sword out of his hand, sending it skittering across the floor. "Every woman you've ever lain with will be mine," Magnus hissed. "They'll all carry my children, and we'll fuck while your corpse rots beside us."
Thorfinn backed up, fury blazing in his eyes. He tried to cast a spell, but his energy was drained. He felt the exhaustion deep in his bones, knowing another spell could knock him out completely. But as Magnus kept taunting him, his rage built up. His arms shook, and his palms glowed with a pale white light.
"Now die!" Magnus shouted, raising his sword for the final blow. Thorfinn roared, throwing a punch with all his might. His fist connected with Magnus's sword, shattering it into pieces before slamming into Magnus's face. The sound of bones breaking was sickening as Magnus was sent tumbling across the floor.
Thorfinn felt a wave of exhaustion threaten to overwhelm him, but he pushed it aside, advancing on the fallen Magnus. Magnus tried to back away, his face a mangled mess. One of his eyes had burst, his teeth were shattered, and the right side of his face was sunken in. He babbled incoherently, blood pouring from his mouth.
"You have no honour, so you shall receive none," Thorfinn said coldly, pressing his foot on Magnus's neck. Magnus struggled, his hands clawing at Thorfinn's leg, but his strength was fading. Thorfinn increased the pressure until he heard a crunch, and Magnus went limp, his body lifeless on the ground.
Thorfinn, breathing heavily, dragged Magnus's body outside and threw it into the mud. "It's over!" he shouted, his voice ringing through the rain. "Your lord's son is dead. Kneel or die!"
The men stopped fighting, shock and fear written on their faces. Some hesitated, but most fell to their knees, submitting to Thorfinn. The ones who refused were quickly dispatched by Thorfinn's men, their bodies joining Magnus's in the mud. As Thorfinn looked over the kneeling men, a sense of grim satisfaction washed over him. The battle was won.
(AN: Wooooo chapter is over, and this was a long one fellas let me tell you. I mean my chapters are usually around 4,000 words which is a decent amount I reckon. But this is a whopper not even a jr whopper but the big daddy one. 7,500 words that could be 2 separate chapters, wowowoowowoowow. Anyway, Thorfinn has finally killed Magnus and now the conflict has tipped over, once the Jarl finds out that his son is dead he'll have nothing left to lose. I mean in canon he went pretty crazy cause of it so who knows. Anyway I hope you enjoyed the chapter.
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