Reborn into the Viking series

Chapter 12

The sky above Athelstan was a vibrant shade of blue, adorned with wisps of fluffy white clouds that danced with the wind gusts.

Kneeling on the sandy shore, Athelstan's hands trembled as he carefully untied the rope that had burdened his neck for far too long. With a mixture of trepidation and hope, he dipped his trembling fingers into the cool, crystalline water and splashed it onto his face, as if to cleanse away the remnants of his pain.

He then slowly extended his hand towards his once-bare scalp, now adorned with a lush growth of hair. His fingertips grazed the newly formed strands, their softness a stark contrast to the baldness he had come to accept. The realization washed over him like a tidal wave, and profound despair settled in the depths of his being.

The sudden growth of hair serves as a stark reminder of the part of himself that he has lost, the identity that has been stolen from him. The weight of his grief becomes unbearable, and he crumbles, his sobs echoing across the shoreline

HILDR'S HOUSE

As Athelstan discreetly enters the house, he looks out the window and spots Hildr engrossed in forging new weapons, with Bjorn by her side.

Bjorn: Is this what you wanted? Can I give it a try now?

Athelstan quietly takes hold of one of Hildr's sharp knives and heads straight into his new room. He fetches a bucket of water and positions himself at the edge of the bed.

He begins scraping off the hair from his previously bald spot, wincing in pain as droplets of blood slowly mingle with the pristine water in the bucket.

Suddenly, a chuckle fills the air, causing Athelstan to halt his actions. He turns to find Bjorn and Gyda standing in his doorway. Bjorn's face bears a mischievous smirk, while Gyda appears visibly startled.

Just then, Hildr enters the room and her eyes widen at the sight of Athelstan bleeding from his head.

'Oh shit, I completely forgot about this scene from the series'

Disappointment etched on her face as she turns her attention to Bjorn, who continues to wear a smirk.

Hildr: You should know better than to find amusement in someone's misfortune.

Bjorn's eyes widened, realizing the gravity of Hildr's scolding.

Bjorn: But I...

Hildr swiftly interrupts him, silencing any attempt at justification.

Hildr: No excuses, Bjorn. Return home.

She then shifts her gaze to Gyda, who remains in a state of shock.

Hildr: You're welcome to stay with me if you wish.

Gyda looks at Hildr with gratitude shining in her eyes.

Gyda: I would, but I still have chores to finish before breakfast.

Hildr offers a warm smile in response.

Hildr: Then you better get going.

Hildr then turns her attention back to Bjorn.

Hildr: Especially you.

Bjorn reluctantly accepts the instruction.

Bjorn: Fine. Let's go, Gyda.

As soon as they leave, Hildr turns to Athelstan with a warm smile on her face, trying to lighten the mood.

Hildr: Next time you need a haircut, tell me.
I'll gladly do it for you.

Athelstan doesn't respond, lost in his thoughts as he stares at his reflection in the water now filled with his blood. Concerned, Hildr sits beside him, her voice gentle as she speaks in Old English.