HEIM OF GODS

Chapter 12 "Váraraukar" (Shelters of Refuge)

Distant lands and villages were being destroyed as the Mórka grew in power, their darkness spreading like a stain across the land. Nørhaven, once a distant haven, was becoming a shelter for refugees as people found it their only choice.

Kael, still reeling from his encounter with the girl, couldn't shake off the feeling that his fate was intertwined with hers. He sought out the Hersir, his commander, to discuss the growing threat of the Mórka.

"Hersir, what can we do to stop this darkness?" Kael asked, his voice laced with concern. "We can't just sit back and watch as innocent villages are destroyed."

The Hersir's expression was grave. "Matters of war are not to be decided in rage or pity for a people we don't know. We don't know where the darkness is coming from, and we can't leave Nørhaven unguarded. We'll trust in the gods to guide us when the time comes. But for now, let's focus on tending to these people who need our help."

Kael nodded, though he was unsettled by the Hersir's words. As he walked away, he saluted the Hersir, acknowledging his orders in the traditional Norse manner: "MAY THE GODS WATCH OVER US."

He walked past the temple of Freyja, the goddess of love and war, where wounded villagers were being tended to. That's when he saw her - the girl he had rescued from the Rån bandits. She was helping the priestesses tend to the injured, her hands moving with a gentle touch.

Kael's heart skipped a beat as he approached her. He felt a moment of shyness, his boots scuffling against the stone floor as he walked towards her. The sunlight streaming through the temple window cast a warm glow on her face, illuminating her features.

She looked up, noticing someone approaching her. Her eyes narrowed slightly as a shadow fell across her face, blocking the light from the window. Then, she smiled, her eyes sparkling with recognition.

Using the formal Norse greeting: "Velkomin, (Welcome warrior!) Bowing her head!" .

Kael waved away the formal greeting, feeling a flush rise to his cheeks. "No need to formalities," he said, trying to sound casual. "I'm just glad to see you're safe."

The girl's smile faltered for a moment, and then she nodded. "I wanted to thank you for helping us fight off the Rån bandits. They would have taken away what was left of my village."

Kael shook his head. "You don't need to thank me. We do our best to defend those who need help."

The girl's eyes sparkled with curiosity. "I'm Eira," she said, her voice soft. "And you are...?"

Just then, a loud shout echoed through the temple. "Kael! Here you are! I've been looking all over for you!" Vigdis, strode towards them, a grin on his face.

As he approached, his eyes landed on Eira, and his grin widened. "By Thor's beard! What's this? Have you found yourself a new friend, Kael?"

Kael rolled his eyes. "Vigdis, stop it."

Vigdis chuckled. "What's the matter, Kael? Can't handle a little teasing?"

Kael shot him a warning glance. "The Hersir wants us to take patrol on the Rífara river," he said, changing the subject. "There are reports of injured villagers fleeing from the Útlagi bandits."

Vigdis's expression turned serious. "Let's gear up, then."

As they walked away, Kael turned to Eira. "I hope to see you when I get back," he said, trying to sound casual. "Thanks for looking after the injured here."

Eira smiled, her eyes sparkling with warmth. "You're welcome, Kael. May the gods watch over you."

Kael nodded, feeling a sense of gratitude towards her. As he walked away with Vigdis, he couldn't help but feel that his encounter with Eira was only the beginning of something much bigger.

Vigdis nudged him, a mischievous glint in his eye."Þú ert á því aftur, maður!" (You're at it again, man!). He said, using the Norse phrase: "Taking advantage of the vulnerable while laughing."

Kael shot him a warning glance. "Stop that, Vigdis. My intentions towards Eira are completely honourable."

Vigdis chuckled. "I'm just teasing, Kael. But seriously, what's going on between you two?"

Vigdis I have a lot to share with you but now duty first.

As they reached the stables, Kael's horse, a majestic black stallion named Svart, nickered in recognition. Kael patted Svart's neck, his mind already focused on the task ahead.

"Let's ride," Kael said, his voice low and determined.

Vigdis nodded, a grin spreading across his face. "For Nørhaven!"

Kael's eyes flashed with a fierce light. "For Nørhaven!"

Together, they mounted their horses and rode off into the gathering darkness, the sound of their hooves echoing through the city like a promise of protection.

And as they disappeared into the night, Eira's eyes watched them from the temple window, a small smile playing on her lips.