บท 2: The Gathering Storm
The sun dipped into the horizon, casting a warm, golden glow over Kattegat. The village bustled with activity, preparations underway for the impending harvest festival. Astrid walked alongside Gyda, their footsteps echoing off the wooden longhouses. The sound of hammering and laughter carried on the breeze, mingling with the scent of freshly baked bread and roasting meats.
"Astrid, have you given thought to Thorbjorg's words?" Gyda asked, her voice barely above a whisper. They navigated through the crowded village center, dodging children playing with wooden toys.
"Every waking moment," Astrid replied, her gaze drifting toward the fjord. The longships rocked gently in the calm waters, their reflections mirrored in the fading light. "I feel the weight of destiny settling upon me."
As they approached the village center, the sound of clanging steel and laughter filled the air. Ragnar Lothbrok, the legendary warrior, stood amidst a circle of villagers, demonstrating battle techniques. His movements fluid, precise, and deadly. Astrid's heart quickened. This was the man Thorbjorg had spoken of, the one whose path intersected hers.
Ragnar's eyes locked onto Astrid, and a hint of curiosity flickered across his face. "And who might you be?" he asked, approaching her. His rugged features softened, and a charming smile spread across his face.
Astrid stood tall, her shoulders squared. "I am Astrid, daughter of Bjorn."
Ragnar's gaze lingered on hers, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "I've heard of your father's bravery. You share his spirit, I see."
Astrid's cheeks flushed, warmth spreading through her chest. "I try to honor his legacy."
As the evening wore on, Astrid found herself drawn to Ragnar's stories of battle and conquest. His passion and conviction ignited something within her. She listened intently, her mind racing with the tales of adventure and glory.
"...and then, we claimed the treasure of the Frankish kingdom!" Ragnar exclaimed, his arms spread wide. "Gold, silver, and fine silks – the spoils of war!"
The villagers cheered, their faces aglow with excitement. Astrid's heart swelled with pride, imagining her own name etched into the annals of Viking legend.
But amidst the camaraderie, a sense of unease settled in the shadows. Astrid noticed a figure watching from the fringes – a hooded figure, their eyes fixed intently on Ragnar. The air seemed to thicken around them, heavy with an unspoken menace.
"Who is that?" Astrid whispered to Gyda, her gaze darting toward the mysterious figure.
Gyda's expression turned serious. "A stranger arrived yesterday, seeking shelter. Some say they're a wanderer, others a spy."
Astrid's instincts screamed warning. "Keep a close eye on them."
As night descended, the stars twinkling above, Astrid felt the gathering storm. Thorbjorg's prophecy, Ragnar's presence, and the mysterious stranger all swirled together, forging an uncertain future.
Ragnar's voice broke the spell, his words low and urgent. "Astrid, walk with me. I would speak with you further."
Astrid's pulse quickened. "Of course, Ragnar."
Together, they strolled along the fjord's edge, the water lapping gently at their feet. Ragnar's eyes scanned the horizon, his jaw clenched.
"I sense a darkness gathering, Astrid. A threat to our people, our way of life."
Astrid's grip on her sword tightened. "What do you know?"
Ragnar's gaze locked onto hers. "Only whispers, rumors. But I trust my instincts. And I believe you, Astrid, are tied to this destiny."
The stars above seemed to pulse with an otherworldly energy. Astrid felt the threads of fate weaving together, forming an intricate tapestry.
"I'm ready, Ragnar," Astrid said, her voice firm. "Whatever the gods have planned, I'll face it head-on."
Ragnar's smile flashed in the darkness. "Together, we'll weather this storm."
As they walked, the village's laughter and music fading into the distance, Astrid knew her journey had begun.
— ตอนใหม่กำลังมาในเร็วๆ นี้ — เขียนรีวิว
สถานะพลังงานรายสัปดาห์
-- การจัดอันดับด้วยพลัง 
-- หินพลัง