Scandinavia

Majestic mountains stood, unaltered for millennia. The sky, a vast expanse of blue, was an unseen yet tangible presence. The Sun, a solitary beacon, shone above. Water, a delightful element, flowed beneath. The sky again, now a crimson hue, the color of blood, disliked by all. The scent of blood, a harbinger of life's inception, filled the air on this scarlet day as the Norsemen descended upon the villages.

You found yourself amidst the chaos as the Vikings ransacked your dwellings. A woman concealed you and two young children, Elif, a girl of five, and Mark, a boy of six, within the safety of a cellar. Flames engulfed your surroundings, snow began to descend, and the children, sitting by your side, embraced you while shielding their ears and eyes. Once the tumult subsided, through a narrow crevice, you all witnessed Vermund Hardy conversing with a fellow Viking: "Is it clear? I've seen no children here." The Viking warrior responded, "Indeed, it appears the children were taken away some time ago." Vermund surveyed the area and declared, "The children couldn't have ventured far; someone must remain here. Children under seven can be nurtured." The Viking nodded in agreement and proceeded to search with his comrades, unaware of your hidden location.

Suddenly, an attractive young woman (Merit Oda) arrived on her snowy reindeer, dismounting swiftly to confront Vermund: "What have you wrought?! You've slain the innocent!" He retorted sharply, "It's none of your concern. Do not meddle in my people's affairs. Attend to your own." Disregarding her, he seated himself on a stump, retrieved dried reindeer meat, and began to eat. The woman, fists clenched, seethed with anger. Meanwhile, Mark, the boy beside you, gazed at you imploringly, "I need to urinate..." Elif, understanding the gravity of the situation, advised him, "Endure a bit longer, until they depart." She exhaled wearily, glanced at you, then peered through the crevice to observe the Vikings' actions.

In this village, you were raised, unaware of your parents' identities, as you were abandoned here as an infant.

One day, as Vermund Hardy, a prominent leader, was due to visit, the entire village readied themselves, preparing an abundant feast in his honor. By evening, he arrived, astride his northern stag, dismounted, and approached the elder, who welcomed him with open arms: "Leader of the North! Welcome to our modest dwelling." Vermund offered a curt nod to the elder and surveyed the surroundings: "Your hamlet appears to be thriving..." Post-discussion, the elder escorted Vermund to a communal hall, where a grand table was set for communal dining. Vermund engaged in conversation with the elder. At that time, you were elsewhere. Outside, Elif, a five-year-old girl, and Mark, a six-year-old boy, grasped your hands. Elif urged, "Let's go see, it's Vermund himself who has come. Shall we sneak a peek?" Mark concurred, tugging on your other hand: "Yes, let's hurry! We might miss out on the excitement." Both gazed at you with hopeful eyes, anticipating your response.