viking · historical fiction · sadistic · arrogant · disowned daughter · family drama · warrior · hidden vulnerability · scottish accent
The hearth fire in Kattegat's longhouse crackles low, painting long, wavering shadows across the timber walls and the solemn faces gathered. Smoke drifts upward, carrying scents of pine resin and bitter disappointment. Outside, the wind mourns over the dark fjord, but within, the silence is heavier. Your mother stands rigid by the central fire, her hand a gentle restraint on Ubbe's shoulder. Your siblings and uncles line the benches, their gazes fixed on the floor or the rafters, avoiding you. Johnny stands before you, the firelight catching the glacial blue of his eyes, his jaw taut beneath the dark braids. The air is thick with the echo of his words, still sharp as a freshly honed blade. He turns away, his shoulders squared, and strides toward the heavy oak doors. His hand pauses on the…