Chapter 5: Preparation

Harald Boneaxe, Helga Bjornsdottir, Ingrid Stoneheart, Haakon Flintblade, Olaf Whaleheart, Sigrun Stormcaller

Helga Bjornsdottir, her face etched with determination, stood at the heart of the Dragontooth ship. The weary crew, bathed in the moon's silver light, lined the deck. The sea, a vast expanse of shimmering silver, awaited their next adventure. Helga's voice, carrying over the calm waters, began to address the crew.

"Guys! Tonight, we are preparing for another great journey so that by morning, we can set sail. Ingrid's vision shows us the way to Mimir's well, where Odin's fate is decided. It won't be an easy journey, but we are ready for the challenges ahead. We are warriors who do not fear danger. Today, we will prove that we are worthy of the gods' favor!"

The crew responded with a tired shout, reinforcing Helga's words. Harald Boneaxe stood behind the captain, clutching his battle axe. The ancient weapon, along with the boar helmet he proudly wore, had been passed down through generations in his family.

Harald's battle-axe, with its bone handle, is an imposing and fearsome weapon. The handle is made from a large, sturdy bone, perhaps from a fabulous beast or even a fallen enemy, and is polished smooth from years of use. Intricate runes are meticulously carved along the length of the handle, each rune glowing faintly with an ancient, mystical energy. These runes are not merely decorative; they are imbued with protective spells that preserve the weapon's condition and protect it from damage, ensuring it remains as formidable as ever.

The axe head is made of dark, gleaming steel, sharpened to a deadly edge, and shaped to deliver maximum damage. The blade is wide and slightly curved, with a vicious spike on the reverse side for piercing armor. The transition between the handle and the blade is reinforced with metal bindings and intricate knotwork engravings, symbolizing strength and unity.

Overall, Harald's battle axe is a blend of raw, primal power and ancient magic, a testament to his heritage and unyielding warrior spirit. The bone handle and runic engravings make it unique and deeply personal. This weapon not only serves in battle but also carries the weight of history and tradition, ensuring it remains intact and ready for every fight.

He was proud of his weapon but even more proud because he had quickly gathered the crew, even dragging Futhark out from hiding in the shadows. He didn't know what the old fox was up to but reported what he saw to the captain. Helga then remembered that she still had to discuss with the old man and the new recruit, Sven. She gave Harald a task and personally spoke with the two involved.

Harald then set off on the deck, but his task was small, so he finished quickly. He lifted his head, looking for Ingrid. When he found her, Ingrid was chewing on a piece of dried fish and staring at the stars.

"Ingrid, could we talk for a moment?"

Ingrid looked up and nodded.

"Of course, Harald. What's it about?"

"You might not remember, but when you were a child, you had a vision and said that a bear would attack the children playing on the edge of the village. Everyone just waved you off, even me. We shouldn't have because that bear killed two children, one of whom was my only cousin. That's when I became the sole heir to this battle-axe and vowed to follow every word and sign of the gods. I've kept that promise ever since, but now I have doubts."

"Why, Harald? Are you afraid of failure? Or rather, that we might succeed in saving Odin?"

"Yes, I admit I'm afraid. I'm not as brave as Olaf."

Ingrid smiled softly, which Harald quickly noticed in the full moon's light.

"You know, Harald, I can see that since Erik's speech, you've been torn by doubts, and now you've surprised me by sharing all this. I don't know where this conversation will lead, but I'm excited to hear what else you have to say."

Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.

"I've been thinking about what you said about heroism and respect for the gods. It's difficult to change my views, but you might be right. My father's stories were always about how he helped his comrades in battle and everyday life."

"I'm glad you think so. Your father is indeed such a person according to his saga, although I prefer your great-grandfather's. Heroism can take many forms, and sometimes the greatest courage lies in facing ourselves, just as you are now."

"I know I'm fierce in battle, but it doesn't matter if I can't be an einherjar anymore. The others are just as troubled, except for those few like Futhark, Erik, and Sigrun. They've clearly stated that they never longed for Odin's hall. Sometimes, I wish I could be as carefree as them. And now look, there's no more invitation to Valhalla, and I feel even worse!"

"Harald, when I have a vision, it's frightening and wonderful. Being afraid of the unknown doesn't mean it can't also be wonderful. Try something you have yet to do before. Your father often helped his comrades; why don't you try doing the same?"

"I'm a berserker; fighting is my specialty. How could I help anyone in the crew? I'm only useful in battle, not in everyday life!"

Ingrid smiled and patted Harald's shoulder.

"This realization is already a big step, Harald. Thinking like this makes you a better comrade to everyone. So I'll tell you a secret: people often don't need help; they just want someone to listen and acknowledge their efforts."

The berzerker would have gone on, but Ingrid whispered in his ear.

"I knew that you heard my first vision."

Harald was surprised, then walked on thoughtfully and noticed Haakon, who was trying to untangle a rope knot.

"Haakon, can I help?" he thought to try out what Ingrid had just told him.

Haakon looked up, surprised, then smiled and nodded.

"Sure, Harald. It's always good to have a strong hand to help."

As they worked together, Haakon told him how he managed to repurpose an old ship rope that others would have discarded long ago.

"You really know your stuff, Haakon. Even small things like this can make a big difference."

"Thank you, Harald. Sometimes, the smallest things can be the most important. I owe this to the women; if you knew how much a few flowers and kind words matter at the right time," Haakon grinned mischievously.

"You're right. Sometimes, it's not the big battles that make a difference but the small things. This was a truly new lesson." With that, he turned and left, just in time because Haakon was about to start detailing his conquests.

Later, Harald approached Olaf, who was fixing something on the deck under Leif's instructions. The shipwright often gave orders during maintenance and preparation. The captain didn't like this, but it was necessary to accept it.

"Olaf, how do you stay so calm even in the biggest storms?"

Olaf laughed and replied, "Harald, the secret is that I always remind myself that every storm passes eventually. In life and in battle. There's no need to worry because it will end someday."

"I'm not afraid in battles. At least I have just been, but now Ragnarok is here. Yet you seem so calm."

"I seem calm because of my nature. The thought of not fighting alongside Odin scares me, too. It makes me sweat so much that I smell like a troll."

"Really?! So you're the source of that terrible stench?" asked the berserker, pinching his nose while laughing heartily. Olaf responded with a hearty laugh.

"Olaf, if we save Odin, perhaps he will reward us with the mead of poetry, and we'll finally stop making up false songs."

"Humor has always been your strength, Harald. Do you remember when the Franks in Paris surrounded us? You just said Jesus and made a cross with your axe for them. I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't seen it with my own eyes. I don't know anyone who learns about other people's religions and makes jokes out of it as easily as you. The gods also appreciate humor and wisdom; just think about how many legends Odin and Loki have."

Meanwhile, the crew finally prepared for departure, and Helga ordered a short rest until sunrise.

Early morning, Helga, Gunnar, and Ingrid began discussing the route. Sigrun then stepped forward, her face serious and thoughtful.

"Helga, I might know a quicker way to Mimir's well. My people have an ancient story about a magical path that could make our journey easier."

Helga listened intently, then nodded.

"Tell us about it, Sigrun. If you're right, it could greatly help us."

Sigrun began to tell the ancient story, which brought new enthusiasm and excitement to the crew's hearts. The tension and anticipation before setting sail were palpable, but they knew they were ready for the challenges ahead.

Harald stood confidently on the deck, knowing that whatever happened, he and his comrades were ready to face it and save Odin.