Mists Of Midgard: The Serpent's Shadow

Chapter 3: Arvid's Hall

Runar's longship plowed through the cold, eerie mist that surrounded them. The weary warriors, tired from the journey, huddled together on the deck, seeking warmth from the cold and comfort from one another. They could now see the port of Arvigrad in the distance, a small but welcome sight that gave them a sense of home.

The people of Arvigrad eagerly welcomed the return of the raiding party. In accordance with local tradition, a grand celebration was held on the streets as a way to honor the warriors who had gone on their journey. The townsfolk readied their offerings for the land spirits, while wives, husbands, and children anxiously waited to embrace their loved ones who had gone to raid.

The people of Arvigrad enjoyed the more enjoyable weather under the sun, for they knew when the sun went down, the chill of winter would return in full force.

A group of people came up to Runar, bearing greetings and innocent questions. He forced a smile. "I'd love to partake in the festivities, but I need to talk to Jarl Arvid as soon as possible."

                                 I

Falki approached Jarl Arvid's Hall. He could see Runar heading this way as well. He noticed Ulfdan and Halfdan conversing with a food vendor across the road, he motioned them over.

As everyone gathered for the celebration, Arvid's hall was abuzz with excitement and energy. The air was thick with the clinking of ale mugs and the cheerful laughter of those enjoying themselves. The aroma of roasted meat mixed with the musty smell of old oak filled the room, creating an atmosphere of comfort and familiarity. The room was adorned with animal pelts, and torches that shed a warm, flickering light all around. The sounds of storytelling and singing echoed through the hall, adding to the joyous atmosphere.

"Runar!" Liv yelled. She jumped, landing on him for a long, full-hearted hug, which he replayed in kind. Most people assumed they were in a relationship, but in truth, they hadn't had the time to establish anything of the sort. For now, they just really enjoyed one another's company.

Jarl Arvid smiled, taking note of his daughter's obvious happiness. He hadn't seen her smile much since the raiding party left. "Come, come" he motioned for Runar and the others to join him at his table. " Your messenger sent positivity and nothing more" Arvid said with a hint of annoyance in his voice.

"We have much to speak of" Runar said while filling his plate with the foods the table had to offer.

Falki gave a basic summary of their bombing plan, and the result of it that they withnessed. Liv listened intently, showing more enthusiasm than was probably appropriate for the moment.

"So you're telling me, Osvik is completely undefended? Well this is wonderful news" Arvid said with his voice and cup raised.

Arvid's Housecarl, Tora interrupted Arvid before he could start on a tangent about the next raid. She had been the Housecarl for the small family of Liv and Arvid, since Liv's mother passed away during childbirth. She was a bit of a mother-figure for Liv, and a great deal of help for Jarl Arvid. She helped keep Arvigrad organized while Arvid kept it safe.

"Arvid, they have just returned home, and it's as Falki has said, Osvik is in no position to attack us now. "Now should be a time for rest" Tora said with the same tone a teacher would have with her student.

Arvid stretched in his chair. "Yes, yes...you are right. As always." Liv easily detected the sourness in his voice. She always found Tora's and her father's relationship amusing. Liv also hoped that one day they would stop beating around the bush and confess their love for each other, but she knew their relationship was complicated. That, and the helpless romantic in her wished to see the two of them happy.