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Ragnar groaned in his sleep, tossing and turning in a sweat. these nightmares that have haunted him for years. The cruel death of his parents at the hands of barbarians. He sees his mother and father having their throats slit, and tries to protect himself with Rollo. Only Lagertha, Bjorn and Floki know what happened. His sweet Gyda knew also of course. No one else among his people or his friends knows. And especially not a rival, as that would show his weaknesses. Not even...Athelstan. He didn't tell Aslaug either because, once again, he never felt the need to talk to her about his deep wounds. Only those damned nightmares force him to confront this massacre. 
Since then, him and Rollo have never stopped training to be fearsome and dangerous. And this is the result. They are, differently, but still vulnerable in retrospect about this slaughter. One like the other.Ragnar felt someone shake him slightly and he woke up suddenly. Aslaug of course looking at him worriedly.“Those nightmares again?” She seems neutral but attentive to his condition.“Yes..” He mutters exhaustedly as he closes his eyes and catches his breath . He puts his hands over his eyes, trying to pull himself together.“Ragnar...what are these nightmares?”He stands up slowly in pain and mumbles again, his voice hoarse:“You really can't guess with your abilities ? ”“No. I can maybe predict the future, but nothing about dreams.” She stares at the fireplace which relaxes the admosphere. Ragnar knows that she refuses to say anything more about Halbard. Another trauma for Ragnar . So much  that Ubbe and Hivtserk almost died . He often looks to the sky, thinking of Siggy .“Good. “He gives a little ironic smile and finally looks at her with his piercing gaze:“I don't want to talk about it. ”She finally looked back at him with bitterness:“You mean with me .”He shakes his head slightly, calmly setting the record straight:“No. I don't want to talk about it Aslaug. ”A few seconds of pure silence pass when Ragnar stands up, saying softly:“I hope I didn't wake the children."He also hope they don't have nightmares. They all have a reason to. He then sees them sound asleep deeply and looks at them for a moment, exhausted but reassured to see them all alive. Even Ivar, though Aslaug will never believe it. It's not a problem. He loves his sons, nothing more, nothing less.He kissed each of his sons on the head and finally joined Aslaug, who was waiting for him, still waiting for an answer. But Ragnar says nothing, pretending she isn't there. He thought of apologizing for waking her, but didn't, out of pride or just because deep down she had her own dreams. He breathed heavily, trying to banish from his mind the image of his dead parents, their dismembered bodies. And that image of black feathers in those sinister forests near where he'd lived in Kattegat as a child. The days were beautiful and sunny despite the northern cold, but the nights were sordid. 
Odin tested them to the limit. This only made Ragnar tougher, but these nightmares...that keep coming back, he can't take it anymore.“Have you spoken to the Seer? “Aslaug asks again, her tone still monotonous but still curious.He sighed in frustration and replied:“Just once. And never again since. I did it when I was just a farmer...Before I made the decision to go to the West and forget.And live. ”Ragnar's silence following this revelation shows how much he doesn't want to talk about it and just hopes to sleep. Aslaug no longer insists, thinking about Halbard. Ragnar knows. Oh, he knows, and he stares at her in a petty way. Sadly time pass, he doesn't sleep, haunted by these memories. To comfort himself, he often looks towards where Athelstan rest.

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The next morning, Kattegat was freezing cold and the mood was dull. Merchants do their utmost to warm up their provisions, and villagers and warriors find the necessities. The children's laughter brings hope and joy to life. Athelstan sees them and smiles in amusement, planning to buy himself some food, and hopes in his heart that Ragnar has enough to eat. Of course he does, he's the king and Ragnar has always managed better than anyone else. But just in case, he plans to buy more than usual. He should also buy for the children, but he's afraid Aslaug will think he's overdoing it.He stares at the house where Ragnar is and plans to go and see him, hoping he's just fine. He then crosses paths with a viking named Ketil who looks like Torstein. The man also sees him, smiling at Athelstan. “So, priest ! You need your little rations too ? ”Athelstan is so delighted to see him, who has always regarded and respected him from the beginning also like Torstein did....Although Athelstan has never been a priest and isn't quite a Christian anymore, having embraced the power of paganism, he knows that Ketil overshadows him like this with affection.“I know I eat like a bird sometimes. People often call me that, too. “ He laughs lightly. “ The rest is for Ragnar. mostly the meat..” “Ah, I see... Everyone notice this attention you bring to each other since forever. Ragnar needs it as much as you do. He's tired right now. “ The Viking reveals seriously .Immediately Athelstan's heart leapt into his chest.“ What's wrong ? Is he sick ? ” Athelstan's gaze is totally filled with fear.“ Tired. He doesn't want to say more he's often having nightmares at the moment.”And Athelstan remembers. Yes, Ragnar often had nightmares at particular times. Even when they were at the farm and Ragnar seemed happy apart from that. He's always respected Ragnar's silence about these nightmares, but if it's damaging his health, it's out of the question to keep it that way.“ Thank you Ketil. "He puts his hand on Ketil's arm and leaves. Ketil then whispers:“ Don't lose your smile, Athelstan. It's too precious in this world and in Ragnar's. Everyone knows it.” Ragnar is surrounded by his family and close friends, even Lagertha is there knowing that Ragnar seems really exhausted and staying as much as possible with Bjorn, knowing that his affair with Kalf is far from being settled. But the subject is neither the lands of Wessex, nor Kalf, nor Paris. But Ragnar's nightmares.
Tired of not having slept at all, he looks at the empty chair next to Lagertha, evasive. The cold isn't really helping at the moment, and they're all trying to keep warm.
Hivtserk keeps wanting to stay in his father's arms and Ragnar tries to calm him down:“Shhh Shhh...Come on eat and you can stay with me .I want you to stay too hm ? ”He tries to remain firm, but he's too tired to stay that way for long. And having his son against him reassures him, knowing he's safe. Not having to deal with these beasts, he doesn't even want to think of their names.Ubbe ate quietly, occasionally looking at his father who smiled to reassure him.“ Come on, you too eat Ubbe...” Ragnar orders him knowingly. His eyes are rimmed with fatigue, and he would like to sleep.“Are the nightmares back, Ragnar? “ Lagertha asks calmly. Rollo raises his head, feeling an anger he tries to control.“Yes,” Ragnar then gives a forced smile, ” I won't say any more for the moment. There are other problems to deal with...” Aslaug feels that this is too much for her, even though it's her house, she's the queen, but this situation is beyond her. “ I'm gonna take care of Ivar,” she says dryly, and Ragnar looks up at the sky, drinking a little ale to warm up, shaking his head . The wind can be heard everywhere, alerting Ragnar slightly from time to time. Rollo looks at him with concern. As King, he must set an example of strength, even if he understands his pain...But if Ragnar is unwell, there will be consequences in Kattegat. But as a brother, that's another story.“ No, Father. We all think that your health comes first. Not only for your position as King. But for yourself. “ Declares Bjorn, his hands clasped and his gaze on his father. Lagertha despite her problems with Kalf and her Earldom, Ragnar comes first in this particular situation.“You'll always have my support, Ragnar."“I know.” Ragnar smiled falsely but gratefully. " Do i deserve it  ? " he ask casually and she answer playing the game :" Obviously . "Floki, with Helga by his side, also inspects Ragnar's condition.“We'll have to find a definitive solution to stop you having these nightmares, Ragnar...I'll try to find something for you in the meantime.” He offers with ease, gesturing with his hand.
In the meantime of what....Ragnar approaches Floki with a penetrating gaze: “Something powerful."Since Mercia, and especially since Floki confided his doubts about Halbard, the friendship between Ragnar and Floki have not been at their best. Both challenge each other, but it's no longer that important for Ragnar. Things change.Rollo leans towards Ragnar, mumbling to him :“We'll really have to talk, brother.”Ragnar stares at him hard with his iced blue eyes but accepts. The door opens and the room, cold and dull despite the fire, becomes warmer in the sunlight, and Athelstan arrives with his hands full of reserves . Despite his tiredness, Ragnar's eyes light up seeing him. His heart beats fast. He can't control it.
Without waiting, Athelstan greets everyone, while Floki glares at him. Helga taps him on the elbow. Athelstan doesn't care and Ragnar stands up with a small smile :“Hey...you haven't eaten anything yet, aren't you cold ? ”“ Don't worry, I'm fine, I took some provisions. And also for you and your sons. Even you, Bjorn.”Bjorn smiles lightly and heartily.Ragnar then murmurs: “ Thank you...”He looks so vulnerable...Athelsltan smiles at him with the most beautiful purity in the world. That's enough for Ragnar to make him feel better. For now. Athelstan waited for something more from Ragnar to explain what he was suffering from, but Ragnar remained mute, bowing his head. Athelstan understands and whispers:“ It's all right. “ massaging his arm. He feels Ragnar's distance but doesn't hold it against him and leaves to Ragnar's silent despair. Athesltan gives him one last little smile, as if they were alone in the world. As always.And the room goes cold again. For Ragnar. He storms off to the kitchen in front of his family and puts the meat on the table.Ragnar is upset, exhausted and, above all, angry. He doesn't want to involve Athelstan in this horrible situation. Athelstan must remain as much in the light as possible, not in the shadows.

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In the gloomy cold of Kattegat, Ragnar is on his large porch watching his children play. Only Sigurd, as usual, remains in the background. With a gesture of his head, Ragnar orders him to be with his brothers. Sigurd obeys immediately, even though he feels out of place in the face of Ubbe and Hivtserk's incessant laughter at little Siggy, who is still shy. Bjorn hardly ever watches his daughter. Ragnar sighs at this behavior.Athelstan joined him slowly, hoping not to disturb him. Ragnar often wants to be alone. But the next second Ragnar stepped aside to make space for him.
Reassured, Athelstan smiles, blowing into his hands and tucking them under his fur. Ragnar looks at them and takes them delicately, as he always does.Athelstan indulges as usual. The warmth of Ragnar's hands is more reassuring and comforting.“How are they these days ? “ Ragnar asks him gently.“Right now they're sore from the cold, but I'm resisting. I've had much worse. ”Ragnar continues to look at them , caress them, and declares more bitterly :“I wish you'd stayed with us this morning. Why...”“ Too much has happened, Ragnar. For you in Mercia..And me too in Wessex And i saw Floki i don't care but..I wanted mosty you are fine . ”Ragnar smiled slightly at the memory of their return to Kattegat when Athelstan teasingly questioned his vow of celibacy and Ragnar couldn't have been happier at the time. Just with Athelstan.“ I've promised about Wessex whatever happens as much as Paris. Nothing will stop me. ”“Ragnar...You're in no condition to leave...We'll see Paris this is our dreams, but I want you to be well...”Ragnar sighed as he slowly let go of Athelstan's hand and the young man looked at him with such concern.“I'm fine, Athelstan. I promise. "“No, you're not. You can never lie to me. Never again about anything. ”
Only Athelstan can stop Ragnar....
Ragnar then takes his hand again and whispers with this intense look showing his hidden suffering.“Don't be ever out of my sight...”Like a matter of life and death. To which Athelstan replies:“ Very well. And you, don't let go of my hand. ”Two promises for life by words and hands interlaced.Ragnar remember how he felt lonely without Athelstan ..Or he had a very dangerous behavior in Mercia because he was in Wessex...And Ecbert.But life brings Ragnar to speak with Rollo. Ragnar caress one more time Athelstan's hand before to leave even if he just wanted to stay in peace with him. Athelstan returned in his house wanting more than ever to help Ragnar. Seeing him suffer, seeing him exhausted, seeing him in such pain destroys him. More than he can admit to himself. The cold is so intense this year, but Ragnar has made sure that Athelstan's house is the most protected from the northern cold....Athelstan wants to stay this warmth for Ragnar. If that's all it takes for him to help him, he'll always be there. none gods nor himself can stop this. Ragnar and Rollo are alone drinking around the fire , and the elder tries to get his brother to talk . Despite his status as King, Ragnar can tend to rediscover his human weaknesses, despite his supposed connection with Odin more than the other Pagans. But Ragnar also changes his ways for others more unexpected and personal reasons...Rollo sees what his brother becomes over time, and admits he no longer recognizes him. The idea of dancing naked on the sand delights him, always jealous of Ragnar from the start. But this time, when it comes to the slaughter of their parents, it's another story where they're totally equals.“I, too, Ragnar, couldn't get over it. You never really get over it. Everyone has their own way of managing . ”Ragnar stares at Rollo, explaining:“The way you drank for years, betraying me with Jarl Borg to the point of killing one-eye... There was a link with your inferiority complex that you chose. I didn't choose to be Earl, and I certainly didn't choose to be King. But Rollo..I'm sorry about Siggy. It wasn't your fault. It's not all about the slaughter of our parents. ”“The difference between us is that I've never had nightmares. But yes, I also drank because I had memories of these horrors...But you...You have these nightmares because what ? You're Odin's so-called descendant? ”Ragnar stopped drinking, staring wide-eyed at Rollo: “ Maybe.This time it's not a gift if that's the case. ”“Are you going to do something? ”With an enigmatic smile, Ragnar answers confidently, despite his tiredness and his desire to sleep.“ I will always do something. ”A few minutes of silence passed as Rollo finally revealed himself to his brother:“ The Seer foretold me something. Like everything can change...I may be drunk with rage..Guilt..But he told me that if I knew my future, I'd be dancing naked on the beach. ”
Rollo is still waiting for a reaction from Ragnar. Does he want to be jealous, knowing that for Ragnar, Paris is likely to offer him a dark future ? Ragnar doesn't care. It's not his problem. He defies every test, every conflict.“ Well, go ahead. You don't need to know your future to do it. Go dance and enjoy your present. ” He pats him on the back before standing up and sees Ubbe arrive full of life. Ragnar takes him in his arms:“Come. ”Ubbe and all his sons...He's dealing with something he can no longer deny. But look at all his pride. His children . Even Bjorn. They are the future. He then gives Ubbe a long hug.Ragnar hears Rollo leave and heads for the bedroom, seeing Aslaug asleep. Ivar is of course beside her. He gently stroked his head and fortunately the little one didn't wake up.Ubbe was about to say something but his father stopped him:“Shhh shhh....Let them sleep. Come on.”He leaves, holding Ubbe in his arms, savoring the moment and thinking about what he's going to do next.. he is so exhausted. He hasn't slept for 4 days because of those damned nightmares. He can't help but curse Odin at this moment. He sends him a sign. He's convinced of it and will do anything to defy him. Athelstan in his house , closes his eyes and finally takes the cross given to him by Ecbert. He clutches it, feeling the pain on his hands, and begins to confess:
“ In the name of rain and thunder, if you hear me, if you see me

My feels are bonded to my soul, my strength and my heart.

Don't ever underestimate me. 
I am willing to slit the throat of a tortured priest and assure him heaven. 
Just as I'm capable of giving my life, my anger,

Spill as much blood as possible just to save Ragnar.

From whatever suffering he is afflicted with.

Lord do not forgive these words, Thor, Odin I feel you
you too.

Once again, never let Ragnar die.

None gods should let Ragnar die.

I will not see him unhappy again. I do not want to live to see him unhappy. I vow this will never happen again.

I will give always oath to this ,
my future is with him."

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A feast is in full swing, as it is every evening in Kattegat. The place is warm to celebrate life. Everyone enjoy drink and laugh like this is the last day.Even Ragnar is enjoying the moment. He doesn't want to think about anything else but playing with his sons, Aslaug watching him, intrigued .Ragnar's goal is to be able to enjoy life to the full again by trying to catch his sons, laughing like never before, but the real target is Athelstan on the other side of the big table.“Come on, boys, get him! ”Athelstan is also filled with joy, to see ragnar smile, which makes him smile himself and even forget everything. He laughs, flashing his best natural smile and runs. But Athelstan will never win. If the sons don't catch him...Ragnar will. He'll follow him, wherever he goes.Bjorn sees his father happy despite his nightmares, and he prefers that to seeing him tired, even though he sees his father fighting sleep from time to time. Lagertha lays her hand on her son:“Did your father tell you anything new? ”“No. And he doesn't look like he's about to...But look at him...It's too good to be true to see him like this...”“You're right, my son...Let's savor this moment with your father too.”Athelstan seems faster than ever. Too much for the boys and Ragnar finally gets him and Athelstan laughs out loud. Floki looks away as usual. He then sees Helga and takes her in his arms, trying to relax.Ragnar pulls Athesltan lightly against him:“Got you .” Ragnar murmurs against Athelstan his hands on Athelstan's arms imprisoning him.“ You've won, great warrior. "Athelstan then notices a momentary absence on Ragnar's part, staring into space, and he says worriedly:“Hey...It's okay..”Ragnar smiled tenderly, letting him go :“Yes little gem. Look , I have an announcement to make. You're the only one who knows for now . Stay by my side for the feast and then I'll speak, alright ? ”“Of course. “ Simply replies Athelstan with the highest level of seriousness. At the feast, Ragnar eats slowly, making sure Athelstan eats too, and obsessively keeping him by his side. He can't convince his so dear wife to join him, too busy staying on the throne and looking after Ivar.“She babysit him too much...It will never help with his handicap.It's must be his strengh for his life . ”Lagertha gently took his hand and said:“Even if she's your wife and the mother of your children, don't focus on her...Think of yourself Ragnar. ”“Oh, I will...Don't worry.” He shakes her hand, knowing that Aslaug is looking at him with jealousy.He stands up,  and heads to Aslaug like a mountain. “Are you going to stay all the evening showing off like that?  Everyone can see your isolation. “He stares at her, breathing heavily.“I'm looking after our son and you're surrounded enough.”“I don't want jealousy Aslaug. Not tonight. And I'm also looking after our sons. Now about Ivar, he must sleep at this hour . ”“What does that mean ? You're that worried about him. ”He bends down and whispers to her with a piercing look:“Yes. He needs some quiet. So you're going to lay him down and leave him. He's calmed down and Halbard has nothing to do with it. Whether he's a so-called envoy of Odin or not. ”He shows then to Floki a evil smile." Is that an order? ”“ Do it, I advise you. You know how quickly my mood can change.”She stands up in frustration and looks at both Athelstan and Lagertha.“It depends with whom.”Ragnar sighs, never really having the last word with her. But at least he'll be able to make his announcement. She can do what she wants as long as it doesn't harm the children. She would not dare if she care about her life. Ragnar then has flashbacks of his parents dismembered, his mother screaming to death.He puts his hand on his forehead and sits down on the throne. The music suddenly stops as Ragnar remains silent, his face firm and serious. Aslaug arrives and sits down. Ragnar waits no longer.
Only Athelstan knows...
“I'm going to leave for a while where I grew up. It has something to do with my insomnia. Maybe Odin is sending me a warning sign. Maybe not. Either way, I have this feeling. To face what destroyed our childhood . They're still out there. Rollo and i know it."Athelstan was quickly worried, feeling a lump in his throat, but continued to listen attentively Ragnar. Lagertha knew that sooner or later he would return there.“ I don't need the Seer to predict what will happen. It's a choice that I make. I'll do anything to get back... They won't get me. In the name of our gods, in the name of all that is dearest to me. My family...All of you .”For a second he looks at Athelstan , anxious.Everyone is either worried or angry that Ragnar, their King, is leaving for a place made more and more sinister by these creatures. Rollo looks at him, unsure how to take the news, and drinks a horn of ale. Ragnar always holds his head high no matter what.“Are you going alone? “ Ask Bjorn, hoping to accompany him, but Ragnar refuses to put anyone's life in danger. He knows that even Rollo doesn't want to go back there.“ Surely. " Ragnar replies simply. He feels Lagertha's compassion and also Athelstan's, trying to hide his worry. He hopes his prayer has be heard . He then has no more appetite.Ragnar also hides his pain at being without Athelstan. But he imagines him being killed by these horrors... He couldn't bear it. Yet being without Athelstan is like being without your own soul.Athelstan stands up slowly and smiles at Ragnar as a sign of encouragement and love. That's all he can do at the moment. Ragnar, with fear in his stomach, quickly moves towards him, understanding that he is about to leave.“Athelstan Stay...”
Me stay ? When it's you who's going to leave, ready to be killed ? 
“ I need to rest a little, Ragnar. “ He tries to reassure him as much as possible. That's what he lives for. To reassure Ragnar every second that life can give him.He holds his hand tightly, caressing it discreetly and delicately. He then leaves, and for Ragnar it's as if he's been stabbed. He doesn't need these monsters to destroy him. Athelstan has this power every time he walks away from him.“ I knew it.” He then hears Aslaug and turns around, his face closed and staring at her.“I knew you were going into danger. I understand why now. You're always leaving.”“I have specific reasons and I will come back . “He doesn't have to justify himself. He's telling the truth. He then sees Floki walking towards him carrying a wooden bottle. Floki shows some emotion and still some anger.“This is the most powerful thing there is, Ragnar. I hope you will have a good night. Don't you dream about Torstein being in agony? ”Ragnar breathes heavily. Talking about Torstein in his memory in this way.“ Torstein is happy in Valhalla Floki. Thanks for the potion. ”Ragnar stares hard at Floki to make sure he doesn't say a word about Athelstan or his wife's affair.“ If the gods have anything to do with you having to go through this pain...Listen to them above all. You know it's not for nothing that you're having these nightmares again. Your parents were so powerful. As you are. And Lagertha. ”" Yes they were . But not enough against them.."Ragnar thinks back on all these words, even if Floki's madness towards the gods is greater than the others.“ Listen to nothing but the gods, Ragnar ! ”Ragnar then takes him by force by the neck to calm him down just by looking at him, and it works. Floki says nothing more and Ragnar repeats gently but firmly:“Thank you for the potion. ”Floki leaves, feeling something else, someting more powerful,but prefers to go back to Helga. It's either that or he'll kill any animal with his axe.Ragnar is fully aware that no one is pleased that he's leaving. Especially on this mission. He sees his brother looking at him hard, but once again Ragnar with his icy stare challenges him. The simple fact is...he's tired and he just wants it to stop.Only Bjorn and Lagertha seem to understand his departure. Bjorn comes to him and they hug. Ragnar says to him:“Hey, you'll be the man of the house, and I haven't left yet."“ We'll still have time to talk tomorrow father...” Even though Bjorn understands, he regrets not being able to accompany him. But Mercia was a rather bad experience...and he respects his father's decision.Ragnar acts in the moment as if his son and Lagertha were living here like before. He feels a pain in his chest as he looks at the wooden vial. This place where he is misses...him. All the time.Ragnar then suddenly leaves his house to go out in the night, and Lagertha keeps looking at him worriedly.

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Ragnar is alone on the beach where he often settles down to talk to Gyda. He does this as often as possible, placing his hand gently on the sand.
“ You've understood Gyda. Look what your father has become. King in spite of himself. But I will always be your father. Nothing can destroy my love for you. And each day without you and your smile is just as tormenting as losing one's parents...one's children...one's family. From up here...You see how I act, how I handle everything and I have to do my duty. For you, because I remember how distressed you were to see me in pain during those nights, and I would remain strong despite everything, because it's in my temperament... And above all, all of you were my reason for holding on... For not cracking and for moving forward. Even if after your death, moving forward was unimaginable.

I know you're smiling. I've moved on, despite all these struggles and yes...Your brother is as much my pride as you will remain my light. Keep smiling Gyda I can feel it. Like Athelstan's. And my heart starts beating again. Don't worry. I'm taking care of him, that's what you wanted. It's what I want too. He's one of the reasons I didn't go under. Maybe the strongest. And I'm sorry for your mother and me. But we'll meet you again. Be happy...for me. ”
 Lagertha has heard everything but has done all she can to ensure that Ragnar has these precious moments with their daughter, but Ragnar is not fooled. He knows she's there.He turns around and sees his ex-wife slowly walking towards him. He stands up, tormented but at the same time calmed by having spoken with his daughter.“She understands completely. I talk to her wherever I am.”Ragnar places his arm around her back as they walk.“What are you going to do ? Stay here or go back to Kalf ? “Ragnar wants to keep a clear mind instead of getting emotional. Especially when it comes to their lost daughter.Lagertha replies, slightly annoyed:“ I needed you, Ragnar. Your intervention as King. ”Ragnar raised his eyes to the sky, gesturing with his head:“ But didn't you say that my torments came first ? I couldn't intervene in this state. And don't worry, you'll get your Count status back. I'll need Kalf for Paris. ”“ Ragnar, what you're going through is more than difficult. But remember, we all have our problems. Which I had to deal with while you were either in Northumbria or away fishing and getting a woman pregnant. ”Lagertha the tigress is back. The two with their fiery temperaments could have been one and the same, but they couldn't have been any more alike. Ragnar stopped her, raising his hand.“ As I said, I can't argue with you and I don't intend to. You'll have your Earldom, you'll have your place. You'll always have your place also here, especially with our only son. Be reassured, Lagertha. As King I will come back and settle this. ”She then saw him growing tired and regretted having lost her temper:“Ragnar..I'm worried about you, of course. A world without you is impossible, and I'm telling you this because you were mostly my husband. The man of my life with Bjorn ."Ragnar stares at her, taking her at her word. He knows Lagertha better than anyone.He takes her lightly in his arms:“Everything's going to be fine...I promise. Everything will go well  beautiful warrior. ”She snuggles up to him, enjoying the moment. He won't be the last. No way.“Are you going to sleep ? "He then looks at the concoction made by Floki. “I hope so. For our daughter, for us...” He then kisses her delicately on the cheek. “You'll always be the perfect tigress. ”He always called her that. Ragnar loved giving nicknames. He always had.Surprisingly, while wishing her good night, he didn't go to his house, but to Athelstan's house. She smiles. It's totally logical and obvious. Ragnar can only spend his last night in Kattegat with Athelstan.

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Ragnar walked quickly towards Athelstan's house. He wants to see him, be with him, in the name of Odin, in the name of the whole universe, even stay with him for the whole night, as they have often done.Ragnar doesn't intend to spend his last moments in Kattegat without Athelstan by his side. He wouldn't sleep, he'd be at his worst. Especially knowing that Athelstan is worried about him. Despite his smile and his wonderful blue eyes showing all the warmth and light in the hardest moments of his life, Ragnar feels Athelstan's pain.He hopes with all his heart not to wake him up and just lie next to him, but when he enters, the house is very cold in the dark. No fireplaces or candles lighted. Alerted, Ragnar stands in front of Athelstan, who seems to have fallen asleep, and touches his cheek.“But you're freezing...” He murmurs dumbfounded. “ He immediately puts a blanket over him and lights the fireplace. He continues to talk to him:“Do you want to die because I'm about to leave ? You idiot...I'll die in turn if you dare to do that. ”Athelstan wakes up slowly and feels this gentle warmth in the house and a presence. He then sees Ragnar looking at him severely.“ What happened, Athelstan ? Usually you never forget to warm up. Especially as it's particularly cold this winter and you haven't eaten enough tonight...”Athelstan sighs lightly :“I told you I was tired... I really wanted to sleep. Thank you. I was expecting you to announce something... As King, of course, but... I wasn't expecting this... Even though I understand what you're going through with your nightmares. It's true that you look terrible.”“And you silly enough to forget to light a simple candle before bed . ”" Fine. two points." They start smiling at each other to ease the tension between them. Ragnar then stands up beside him.“The truth is, I admire you more and more, Ragnar. Despite my worry and fear for you, you're incredible. You're a true warrior as you really are. You have your own weaknesses but you do everything you can not to let yourself down. I don't know how I would have acted in your position. ”Ragnar looked at him intensely before putting his hand under Athelstan's chin, forcing him to look at him too.“From childhood until now, you've been through horrible things, and you've never let them get you down either. You've faced far worse than I have.”He then strokes his crucifixion-wounded hands and Athelstan smiles softly.“ Are you less cold ? "This will always be Ragnar's preoccupation above all else.“ Yes, I'm fine."Ragnar sees that Athelstan wants to tell him something. He gently squeezes his hand so as not to hurt him, but to encourage him to speak.“ I want to go with you. “ Athelstan is then certain of this decision.Ragnar couldn't be more irrational and looks at Athelstan in fright :“No..No ...No no no...” He stands up in a panic. No, Athelstan must stay here.“Ragnar...” Athelstan stands up also and tries to remain as calm as possible.“ I have to go with you. ”Ragnar then took him by the shoulders and shook him:“Are you looking for death ?? You were going to let yourself freeze to death and now you want me to find you killed by these horrors ? You want to kill me too ?? ”“ Ragnar, calm down ! I've been living with death for years ! And it's out of the question for you to go off on your own. I'd be miserable here without you. Do you really think I'd be safer here ? Ragnar...”The Viking bows his head almost like a vulnerable, terrified child. “Ragnar, look at me. “ He takes his hand and Ragnar looks down at him, moved and broken.“You're all that I have. I want to help you. You know that you and I can't be apart. We've experienced it. And never forget...Wherever you go, I will follow.”Ragnar remained wordless for a moment, trembling, and then took Athelstan in his arms, putting his hand on his head:“No...no...no...” He closes his eyes. Even if Athelstan is right. That they can't be without each other, and haven't been since the beginning. He's afraid. He trusts Athelstan more than anyone, but his fear dominates him.Athelstan massages his back to calm him.“Don't leave me Ragnar. “He whispers to him. They stay in each other's arms for a long time, until they feel tired.They then lie against each other in their mutual fear. Ragnar slowly drinks the potion made by Floki and immediately takes Athelstan against him. Athelstan can hear his heart beating rapidly. He falls asleep feeling safe and secure. Ragnar falls asleep quickly thanks to the potion and to having Athelstan with him.  In the middle of the night, Ragnar wakes up with a start, still having a nightmare of his parents being horribly slaughtered by these creatures.Why did they live there... Deep in Kattegat.Athelstan wakes up and immediately grabs Ragnar, squeezing his hand and resting his chin on his head:“Ragnar ! Ragnar shhh shhhh...It's okay..It's over..Breathe Ragnar I'm here...”Ragnar then recognized Athelstan's soft voice and took his hands against him.“Athelstan...”“Shhh...Breathe slowly..there..."Ragnar stared at the wooden bottle. Even that wasn't enough to make him fall asleep. It was too much. He clutches Athelstan like a child. He lets himself go.“We were leaving tomorrow." He declares, his voice hoarse by emotions.“All right. “ Athelstan is so reassured. He feel like he lives again. They will stay together.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Everyone in Kattegat has learned that Ragnar will not be leaving alone. He announced straight away that Athelstan would be coming with him, without saying why. Some feel anger or jealousy, others envy, and others understanding, knowing Athelstan and their relationship.They prepare the horses for the journey and all possible rations. Knowing where he's going, Ragnar also sets off into the unknown, while for Athelstan it will be a great discovery, but of course a dangerous one. But above all, a new part of Ragnar's life.Ragnar's preoccupation is to be well armed, even if he originally intended not to die, having Athelstan by his side gives him a reason to live. A reason to believe and move forward.
He then saw Floki advancing towards him, his eyes still filled with anger and incomprehensible emotion.Ragnar looks at him impassively, fearing the slightest word from his former best friend. And it pains him to think like that, but those are the facts.
And in the meantime Floki shut your face.
“Why the priest ? In the face of these things that have nothing to do with him ? ”Ragnar then takes his sword and slams it into the ground with the point of the blade managing his anger:“As you say, Athelstan has nothing to do with these things. Stay with your family. They need you. Forget the rest. And as for the gods, It will be between me and them. ”Floki moved closer to him and read Ragnar's eyes.“ Be very careful, Ragnar, about your every move. We need you. "Ragnar looks at him one last time before finishing his preparations. 
Let me breathe Floki please....
Floki then leave in suffer.Athelstan takes everything he needs and is forced to say “thank God”, Floki doesn't come to him. On the other hand, Helga comes to him with a vial and her beautiful smile.Helga  loves her husband, but try to not care about what he thinks. She and Athelstan embrace.“ Look, it's balm for your hands. I know you still need it. ” Athelstan is extremely touched and takes her again very gently in his arms, murmuring: “Thank you, Helga. Gladly you're here."At times, she reminds him of Gyda in her kindness and clemency. She was obviously the spitting image of Lagertha. But Helga is a remarkable woman in her own way.“Take care of your family and yourself. “Athelstan told her.“You too..Both of you.” She smiles at Ragnar, who smiles back slightly. He finally sees his whole family and takes his sons in his arms. Ubbe says to him with tears in his eyes :“I want to come with you and Athelstan...”Ragnar then told him caringly but firmly:“You're still too young. Ubbe hey look at me. I want you to be strong and powerful, and you will be like your brothers. I love you...and I promise I'll come back and talk to you about everything. All in good time. You are brave, you know that, don't you? ”“Yes...” He continues to cry lightly, but the youngster feels a strength within him that comes from his father. Ragnar gave Hivtserk and Sigurd a big hug and, seeing Aslaug with Ivar, kissed his wife gently on the cheek before taking Ivar in his arms." Come here my boy.."The little boy says doesn't cry. And Ragnar feels Ivar's future power. Aslaug feel confused, and Ragnar tries to ignore her by giving the little Ivar back to her.He whispers to her :" Be very careful Aslaug." And she felt chills in her whole body.He then tells his sons:“Go and say goodbye to Athelstan. ”With surprise, Athelstan sees Ubbe Hivtserk and Sigurd all hugging him. He smiles and laughs at the same time. Moments of happiness to enjoy.Lagertha comes with Bjorn and little Siggy. Without a word, Ragnar takes all three of them in his arms for long minutes. Deep down, he hates long goodbyes... But he has no choice. And part of him can't wait to do just one thing: leave. He can't explain why, especially since the destination isn't a dream choice but a vital struggle. But here's the thing... He wants to leave, it's in his nature.Lagertha approaches Athelstan and declares in a soft but steady voice:“Take care of him."This time her gaze is far from threatening. To which Athelstan replies, smiling with furrowed brows:“Or ..you will rip out my lungs? ” She smiles and places her hands on his cheeks:“No, little monk. Take care of him and yourself. He needs you.”Athelstan gives her the most beautiful smile he must never lose, and they hug:“I promise. I wasn't going to leave him...”“Thank you. Please don't let anything happen to you.”“No. Nothing will happen to me, Lagertha.”Ragnar, his expression tired, even though he'd had a better night, kept thinking about what might happen. So much so that he didn't even notice his brother's presence.“ Ragnar. “No conflict. Nothing. They look at each other both pained and angry. Their looks say it all. Despite everything, they embrace quickly.Finally, Ragnar turned to Athelstan, who was waiting for him with a smile, and Ragnar whispered softly placing his arm around Athelstan's shoulder with pure adoration :“ Let's go .”The cold becomes more and more intense, and Ragnar and Athelstan each take their horses before setting off for this destination that is at once faraway, ancient, mysterious, dangerous but important. For both of them.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Ragnar and Athelstan rode slowly on their horses, looking around. For Ragnar, the most reassuring thing is to stay in Kattegat, even if the place where he grew up is still a long way off. For Athelstan, he'll be discovering yet another part of this place, a more delicate and surely unusual one. He thought he'd seen it all the first time he found himself under Viking domination, but not at all. Especially when he saw Ragnar's face, still distressed and haunted.The sky is an intense blue despite the cold. This blue resembles the eyes of both men. They see nothing but mountains as far as the eye can see, even though Ragnar knows the area by heart. They can already hear the crows more than usual.It's nothing to do at the moment with death and war. But the closer they get to the dreaded spot, the more the crows show up.“Do you think these are signs from Odin?” Athelstan asked calmly.Usualy they are.“Yes they were. But these mountains also belonged to them without the approval of the gods. They could be masters of themselves. Not just messengers. ”The crows could also be a future sign of death, but Ragnar puts the idea out of his mind. Then they hear thunder while it's still daylight, as if it were summer.The closer Ragnar gets to danger, the less afraid he becomes, but he remains totally on his guard. He turns every minute to make sure Athelstan is there with him.The young man reassures him by moving a little faster.“I have a feeling it's our coming that will alert the crows and the thunder...”. declares Athelstan, looking up at the sky, and he's right. He has kept his knowledge of the gods and other pagan mysteries.They've been riding for three hours and time seems to slow down. As if night would never come. Yet it will come.The cold is even more icy. The only exception is the sun and the color of the sky. The environment is such that Ragnar remembers and Athelstan has the impression of being in another world, even though it's still Kattegat. They can now hear the birds accompanying the crows. As if Ragnar represented the crows and Athelstan the birds.Athelstan is getting colder and colder, not being too used to it, but he doesn't want to complain. Ragnar sees him and smiles:“Hey hey ... Come here. “He covers Athelstan by putting his own fur against him. “No regrets hm ? ”" Not at all . Never ."Ragnar looks around again and still recognizes where they are.“There's a cave not far from where I remember. We'll light a fire and settle in for a few minutes.”“All right.”Athelstan warms up faster than Ragnar expected, but prefers them both to be safe for a while.They descend slowly and Athelstan starts talking almost in euphoria at what he sees and hears :“It's incredible. It's not just the fact that I'm discovering another part of Kattegat...but something deeper ..more intense than I was ever meant to know.”“Something of me, is it? Hm ? “ Ragnar tilts his head, as he often does, and Athelstan smiles:“Yes, that's it.” They then see this famous cave, well hidden. The sounds of the crows are more and more imposing but they try not to pay attention. “Listen to the birds, Athelstan. ”Athelstan closes his eyes and hears them. He savors this moment. It's just unique. God knows what may happen in a few hours.Ragnar knows it, feels it, but also wants to feel this moment with Athelstan and this place that belongs to him.They prepare a fire and at last they can warm up.“It's best to start slowly. At our own pace.”Athelstan looks at him feeling a little guilty:“I don't want to slow us down. ”“No no. We're fine here. I feel good and you? Aren't you cold anymore? ”The cold can be a real enemy even at the most unexpected times.“No. Wait, Ragnar, you're the one with the icy hands... I'm going to prepare something warm for you.”“I want to see that . “ Ragnar teases him. Knowing that it pleases Athelstan. Ragnar holds the hot cup in his hands for a moment, drinks lightly and wants Athelstan to warm up too :" Here take it slowly.."Athelstan can't refuse and realizes:“We are survivors. We always have been, Ragnar . In different places and in different ways. But also here because we wanted to be. You wanted to do it to live again and confront something buried in you, andI wanted to do it for so many reasons."Ragnar looks at him puzzled:“ Beside being with me..What is it exactly ?“You always give me a reason too to go on and never give up on life. Life is all that matters, Ragnar. ”Until then...or even long before, Ragnar was obsessed with the idea of one day finding his parents in Valhalla, proving to Odin without even being his descendant that he deserved his place in Valhalla after his eventual death. But so many things proved to him that life mattered more than anything else. His life with Lagertha, his children...all his sons...his desire to explore the world...and finally Athelstan. Who was born into a pure religion where death was also honored. Thanks to Ragnar, Athelstan wanted only one thing: to live or to survive.Ragnar in turn hears the birds and slowly leaves the cave. Athelstan follows him, worried :“ Ragnar..what's going on ? ” His eyes turn a deep blue and Ragnar feels Odin inside him. He feels these creatures, but also that the hidden place of Kattegat is not far away. And suddenly the weather becomes calmer, warmer. Like when they all lived on the farm.Athelstan follows him, discreetly intrigued.“Let's continue, Ragnar. “They look at each other for a long time, and Ragnar asks him gently:“Aren't you afraid? ”“No. The fear is subsiding more and more and I can't control it..That is weird . ”Athelstan may not be afraid,less and less afraid, but Ragnar has a thirst for vengeance and blood. Which he must control for the time being. Together, they look at the forest they have to cross before reaching this small village of Kattegat. In the daytime, all is peaceful. The place has recognized Ragnar and accepted Athelstan.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

The sun is shining brightly, welcoming Ragnar and Athelstan to a place that seems reassuring. But Ragnar remembers the forest where they first appear at night. The forest that separates them from the farm where he grew up. The sound of crows has disappeared. Only the birds continue to sing.Athelstan sees all the beauty of this forest, but above all he sees Ragnar's worried look, which is totally understandable.“Everything seems peaceful... Is it because it's still daytime ? ”Ragnar looks up at the clear blue sky and the warm sun.Athelstan advances further, but Ragnar holds him back by the wrist.“No. I know you're curious, but even if everything seems normal during the day, it's not. This is where it all begins.”The creatures...Athelstan then fearfully asks:“Isn't there another way? ”“No, there isn't. We have to cross it, but stay close to me. ”Ragnar kept staring at the forest, where the sun's rays blew through the breeze of the leaves, remembering playing as a child with Rollo and others.“Don't let memories haunt you just yet, Ragnar. Let's move forward, discover and confront. ”He doesn't want Ragnar to lose his focus. The forest is beautiful, yes, but it's an illusion during the day. The creatures are asleep.Ragnar advances, keep to have Athelstan near him, taking their horses. At first glance, the forest and nature are splendid, but in the details, lies the entire history of this forest.“There is nothing here...They are not there yet...” murmurs Ragnar over and over, his gaze like a madman. They have the impression of being totally alone in the world. It's the strangest feeling.Birds can be heard, but not seen. Trees may be beautiful, but a trace of blood on their trunks changes everything. “Stay with me, Athelstan... Stay with me, don't let go of my hand.Athelstan feels all of Ragnar's fear, not about the forest specifically, but about Ragnar's concern for him. He then shakes his hand.“We promised not to let go of each other's hand, Ragnar. ”The forest seems so endless, as if there's no way out.Athelstan continued to look at the traces of blood, both new and old. An exploration for him at the very moment while holding Ragnar's hand.They think they're alone when the two men stop at the same time.Ragnar sighed, moving his head to control his nerves:“Of course he's watching us. This is his world. ”“I don't want to know what's going to happen to us. He doesn't need to tell us. “declares Athelstan determinedly. “He wants to talk to me too, I can feel it...”“There's no time for that now. ” On the trees are written letters in Norse. Ragnar knows them, these creatures engrave these letters with their bloody claws after each murder.“Frozen” ‘dismembered’ ‘lost soul’ ‘madness’ and other words.Yes, the forest seemed beautiful, but it's a warning sign and very impacted.When Ragnar reads “dismembred” he sees his parents killed and him screaming with grief and rage when he was only 6 years old. He already wanted to attack them so young in the middle of the night, but Rollo prevented him and protected himself. Ragnar could already feel Odin's strength. He remembers....“Ragnar...” Athelstan's gentle voice brings him back to reality. He closes his eyes, feeling Athelstan gently massage his arm.“You've taken a big step. ”Yes, he has indeed taken a big step, but it won't be enough. If it hadn't been for Athelstan, would he have taken that big step? He'll never know. No, he wouldn't have.“It's not far now."An almost idyllic place lay before them. Ragnar is upset, so many beautiful memories come back to him, the sand and the beach with its crystal-clear blue water. Athelstan is naturally amazed. Ragnar unfortunately can't share this moment. But he stays with Athelstan and the most important thing for him is to see him smile. May it last...Then they hear voices... This place is still populated when they see a family with farm..

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Athelstan bends down, touching the pure, clear water. This blue is as incredible in tone as Ragnar's eyes. A blue that might not even be in Heaven.Ragnar kneels beside him, murmuring:“At night it takes on a different color. It's no illusion, Athelstan. Day or night.”Athelstan looked at him seriously, not knowing how closely his own eyes were related to the color of the sky.“I won't bathe in it, don't worry, even if it's tempting. ”Ragnar replies, smiling slightly:“I used to do it, it was simple...Nothing happened...You forgot about the danger...Any danger. You risk nothing.”Ragnar challenged him, to which Athelstan laughed softly. That laugh that Ragnar loves so much. The most beautiful laugh he's ever heard.“No...I won't do it. But nice try. ”Ragnar remains amused for a moment, but finally looks at the family staring at them. Or rather, this couple. Staring at them in complete astonishment.“What worries me is that this place is still occupied...” Ragnar becomes more agitated and moves briskly towards them to find out more. Athelsten follows slowly, looking at the young man and woman. He quickly feels compassion for Ragnar, who just wants them to leave this place.Especially as he doesn't like the way they look at him.“How did you survive here? “Ragnar asks these two people straight out, making no attempt to get to know them. “How long have you been here? ”“Ragnar. ” Ragnar turns around and sees Athelstan's gentle yet firm gaze. He took a deep breath, trying to control himself.“Answer me,” he said more softly. But the man stares at him and can't believe he's seeing the legend.“Ragnar Lothbrok..But..You became King..."“ Yes ..But I grew up here so it's not for nothing that I'm trying to ask you this question, so for the last time, answer me . ”Ragnar's gaze becomes more severe with that hypnotizing blue that could almost frighten the young woman who says nothing, distraught.“We didn't know, Ragnar Lothbrok... But we do know it's dangerous here... What place isn't? ”Athelstan realizes that the man is right. So is Ragnar. But the King insists.“You'll have to leave sooner or later. It's a matter of life and death, I'm not informing you as pagans. ”The young woman continues to stare at Athelsan, who finally explains straight to the point:“Listen. We are together to fight these creatures... We'll do anything for it. Ragnar Lo...Ragnar has his reasons. I have mine. My name is Athelstan.”Ragnar then smiled ironically at the couple:“At least that's clear . ”Not “I'm with him”, but “We are together”. “And the young woman immediately sees the unique bond between King Ragnar Lothbrok and this Athelstan.“Oh i'm sorry King Ragnar my name is Einar and this is my wife Saga . ”Einar gently stroked Saga's hair, to which Athelstan smiled. He remembers how he stroked Gyda's hair when she died...and Judith, but that's another story. There's nothing like stroking Ragnar's hands or even his hair to tease or reassure him, especially now that he's got short hair. He'll never forget Judith and her beauty, her gentleness, but nothing beats Ragnar as he sees how much Einar shows his love for his wife.Until then, Ragnar said nothing, staring at the beach...the sand...and then he heard screams... howls of pure suffering.“You look exhausted, come on in. “Saga speaks softly.Raganr enters cautiously and sees the interior of their farmhouse. The wooden walls are darker, but the room is illuminated by the outdoor summer atmosphere. “There are no children out there...They're more careful than I've been even during the days. ”“You're right, King R...”“ Just !... Call me Ragnar.I am just Ragnar here”“Very well” But Einar can't help greeting him and trying to think of him as ‘Ragnar’. But it's totally impossible.“There's hardly anyone left. ”Ragnar then leans against the table:“Are you going to stay here forever? I'm not judging you, Einar. I understand that you have a life here with your wife, but don't end up like my parents. That's why I'm here. I loved my life as a farmer. And I think about it every day. But here...My father and my mother were stubborn enough to stay because they were warriors. And get killed to protect me and my brother.”“ I completely understand Ki..Sorry..Ragnar. And after what you said ..we need you. Odin has sent you. ”Ragnar has a lot of resentment towards his own god..But he can't deny this strong possibility. Because he still feels him in his blood.“ I think we all have our reasons for being here...Even you, Athelstan. It's a lovely name, by the way. “Saga says gently and Ragnar smiles teasingly.Athelstan rolls his eyes
Oh, don't start..
“It's not for nothing that I'm not alone. “ Ragnar then sits down. “Athelstan is fundamental. ”Athelstan blushes again easily. But Ragnar wants to make things clear.“I can see that. “Saga declares again, and her husband say proudly :“My wife has a gift. We have nothing against  Christians...They have never attacked us. We have trust in you Athelstan mostly if Ragnar has that trust.”“More than ever. “Ragnar replied without hesitation, his hands interlaced on the table. A baby can be heard in the next room.“Ida wakes up at last. She's very easy to fall asleep. ” She quickly runs to the room where Ida is when Ragnar and Athelstan look at each other annoyed. Ragnar more angry.“You have a daughter,” he says severely to Einar.“We'll protect her as best we can...”“No. As you must. ”Einar is quickly terrified of Ragnar. This time, Athelstan agrees wholeheartedly. This is a family. And Ragnar and Athelstan have always faced the death of a child, or a tragic accident that can cost the lives of other children.“You have sons. We all know that. I hope they are well. We all feel a child's life in peril. May Odin protect them.”“Again, Einar, no. It certainly won't be Odin who's in charge of protecting them. "Athelstan felt a little helpless in the face of this situation. Apart from Gyda, whom he considers a little sister, what can he know of the pain of losing a child? But he feels Ragnar's suffering and it hurts so much. It's as if all the gods of the world were testing him.“They can attack children too...” murmured him with sadness clutching his hand to a box hanging from his bag. Ragnar has always noticed this box.“They can attack anything, Athelstan ....”“I know. Is your wife going to stay with your daughter for a while? ”“Yes why?”Ragnar then frowned as he watched Athelstan pull out a book.“Purely as a precaution. ”It is written in Norse on the book: Nordic creatures and legends.Athelstan also looks at Ragnar and his approval of seeing these creatures again. “It's okay ..I can see them ..You've figured out what they are over time . ” “Of course,” confirmed Athelstan with a small smile. “But please, be honest...”“Athelstan, I promise. “He then puts his hand on his head in a gesture of love and reassurance.On the other hand, Einar will have a hard time seeing them, but he has to do it for his family.“Here's what I know about...” Ragnar urges him, with a look of admiration, to pronounce the name of these creatures. Athelstan can do it.“Draugars. I know I can't tell you more because you two... For different reasons you had to deal with them... But I had to know more and share it. I was very surprised by their appearance but I'm used to it. ”Athelstan spoke in full Narrois to prove once again to Einar that he could trust him with his pagans knowledges.Ragnar then looked at the images of the monsters. Nothing could stop Athelstan from finding this book.Despite everything, he felt a powerful nausea and wanted only one thing. To destroy them shred by shred as he did his parents. It's a destructive sensation, but it's also a thrill because it's in him  He crumples the page slightly.Einar doesn't know if he should be more afraid of these creatures than of Ragnar Lothbrok. A barbarian Viking farmer turned Earl and King. He's always been dangerous and valiant, but he sees in his face a vengeful, hate-filled beast. But in the end, it's a person whose parents were slaughtered. Others are still being slaughtered, it's endless. That evening, Ragnar and Athelstan naively hope for a quiet night's sleep, especially they need it. Einar and Saga welcome them home of course for nights. Athelstan is eternally grateful. Ragnar sees little Ida eating and reminisces again and again, but this time with Gyda, it's been nothing but happiness with his eternal little girl. The atmosphere is calm for the moment, with the sound of the fireplace and the crackling of the fire.Ragnar feels a natural fatigue and prefers to lie down.“Thank you." he says simply to Einar and Saga. He then whispers to Athelstan:“Give you some strengh, I'm going to lie down for a while. Eat please and we will rest. ” Athelstan then eats as much as he can to please Ragnar and above all because his hunger is growing. But whatever happens, he'll always worry about Ragnar and can't wait to join him.Ragnar enters the room and tries to recover from all his emotions. He tries to breathe slowly, but the images of the Draugars are still fresh in his mind. No, the fear is gone. He can still feel Odin's strength, his role to take away this feear.  but Ragnar wants to take it away himself, to make way for aggressivity, madness and a merciless battle against the Draugars. He continues to wait and calm down, knowing that they'll soon be awakening in the forest.

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Athelstan gets up after eating and helps Einar with the dishes.“Ragnar hasn't eaten enough...” He murmurs preoccupied;“Like Saga. She's too preoccupied with Ida. I try to get her to take care of herself but...she's terrified for our daughter. ”“That's natural. It's perfectly normal. As a mother. “He remembers all the love Lagertha gave for Gyda.He keeps looking from time to time at where Ragnar is supposed to be resting, and Einar declares:“ You have really a pure heart. Also for King Ragnar. That is amazing to see that "“My heart beats for so many things that I'm confused... But for Ragnar I've always assumed it. Either it's a choice or I couldn't escape it. And I accept it completely. Since i have met him ."Athelstan finished the dishes and said good night to Einar, now wanting only one thing. To rejoin Ragnar.Einar is ready in his turn to rejoin his own family. Athelstan enters slowly, seeing Ragnar lying asleep. He is so reassured to see him like this. Appeased. As discreetly as possible, Athelstan joins him on the bed, ready to rest and hoping to get some sleep of his own, but immediately Ragnar turns his head and smiles amused.Athelstan laughs lightly: “I'd have been a bit surprised if you hadn't. I didn't really expect you to sleep. ”“But I said rest, not sleep. “Ragnar teases. Are you going to sleep?”Athelsten closes his eyes and murmurs: “ I'd like to...And so would you. ”“ No. I know I won't sleep . “ He covers himself with the blanket and Athelstan at the same time. Ragnar, though extremely exhausted, is stubborn enough to stay awake.“ Fine I wouldn't sleep either. That doesn't mean I can't enjoy this moment. It's still quiet.”Ragnar tries not to think about what might happen and continues to have fun and be serious at the same time with Athelstan about the eternal subject.“So..if it's not you who doesn't want to, it's Lagertha who's missing. If only she'd been there.” “Please, Ragnar, don't make me laugh". And yes Athelstan laugh with happiness.“Athelstan seeing you laugh and blush is all I need. I remember what you told me on our return from Wessex.”Athelstan could no longer deny the subject. Paris...Women .Sex  ..Celibacy. And Life. And Ragnar and his way of "charming" him. As beautiful and pure as it was with Judith, it was intense and powerful with Ragnar.“How was it with this girl ? ”“Ragnar.That's private and...Private. ”Ragnar moved closer to Athelstan, staring at him with intense, warm blue eyes:“With Lagertha it was fiery. "
No kidding...
"It's something you never forget. The three of us would have exploded the world. ”“Really ? “ Athelstan asks doubtfully, but still in amusement.Ragnar then gives him that joy-filled smile he's never given anyone in his life. Not Lagertha or his sons. Just Athelstan and Gyda.Athelstan begins to tap him lightly on the arm, enjoying himself, and Ragnar does the same, but more gently.“We can do this all night long. “Athelstan laughs, and Ragnar just shrugs and smiles, accepting the idea. No nightmares, that's the main thing. Enjoy these moments.Then Ragnar's face changes dramatically as he sees Athesltan's wounds turning redder than usual. He then suddenly takes his hand worriedly:“What's that ? How long has it been getting worse ? ”Athelstan doesn't realize it, and even though he himself seems worried, he wants to reassure Ragnar, who can't stop staring at his distraught hands.“I don't know... It wasn't like that when we arrived and it doesn't hurt at all. “Athelstan tries to remain as calm as possible, despite his fear of seeing his hands deeply wounded again. Ragnar leaps to his feet, looking for Helga's balm.“Ragnar, it doesn't hurt. ”“We'll have to put it on you anyway...Let me do it me, please...I'll be very careful.”“I don't understand... What does it have to do with ? ”“ We must not let it get any worse..."Ragnar applies the balm slowly and delicately:“I'm not hurting you? ”“No, Ragnar, not at all.”Ragnar sees Athelstan's concern and, after applying the balm, caresses his hands:“Athelstan, you know you're not safe, but I'm here. If you're scared, tell me. ”Athelstan has a lump in his throat, murmuring:“I don't want it to happen again..Maybe..The Christ wants something from me or Odin himself. ”Athelstan ends up really scared and Ragnar replies with deep anger :“ None of the Gods will do anything to you they won't dare. Watch your hands, okay ? As long as it doesn't hurt, it's okay, but you have to be vigilant.”Athelstan nodded and then opened the box that had been kept on a bedside table. Ragnar had guessed it. It's the famous cross.“It's there for comfort and protection. Always. ”He then puts it on. “According to King Ecbert, this was purely religious. Maybe beyond that. For me,this cross is like the soul...or the representation of a person. Real or not, I don't know, but I feel so much better with it. ”Their moment is over. An unusual-sounding wind starts to blow and lightly rattles the tightly shut windows.Ragnar is ready to get up when Athelstan stops him, intending to give him the cross, but Ragnar reassures him:“No, no, keep it."“Ragnar, it's ours and I'm coming with you."“ No ! Don't go out, Athelstan.. I'm sorry, but I want you to be safe. Keep it. We'll see what happens, but don't leave the farm. Promise me. "Breathing rapidly as he worries about Ragnar, Athelstan promises him in spite of everything. They leave the room and see Einar and Saga with little Ida, who is crying slightly.“Is that them ?? ” Ask Einar alerted.“ No, I don't think so.” answer Athelstan gravely.Ragnar leaves the house as Athelstan clutches the cross. His promise to all the gods will never be broken.“Athelstan ! ” He then hears Saga with little Ida in her arms. She is desperate.“ Please take her...”Athelstan takes the baby girl gently and whispers to her , to himself and Ida feel in security. “ It's gonna be fine ..I swear it "

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Ragnar finds himself outside and the whole atmosphere has changed, everything is a dark green as if the end of the world were about to happen. Ragnar immediately recognizes the atmospheric conditions. They are here. He knows it, but these climatic presage could be coming from Odin or the Seer, who is waiting for him at the beach, where the water is no longer blue, almost rotten. The Seer, faithful to himself, carries his eternal Wooden stick and his hanging pieces of wood, causing those famous noises that resonate and impose his presence.“Odin speaks to me King Ragnar Lothbrok. Dare to defy him or let your instincts be guided by his power against the Draugars. To the point of changing your destiny. Paris was your destiny. You've changed everything by going back there.”Ragnar, full of annoyance, asks the Seer:“ Why are you here exactly ? As Odin's new messenger ? ”“Aaahh....Just to see how your eyes can change. You yourself can be the danger. By defying the fate of life, the gods..And by wanting to face your fears. ”Ragnar then saw his parents looking at him and smiling in the distance. But nothing can fool Ragnar. He takes a deep breath and orders the Seer with a chilling stare:“Leave them out of this. I don't want to see them. "“They are just illusions..They're created by Odin , the crows themselves , maybe even you . ”Ragnar then sees them on the ground, bloodied and furious, no longer able to control himself as he grips the Seer's neck. His heart beats so fast as he relives these images of horror. The worst would be to see the bodies of his sons freeze to death.“I don't want to see that. . My future will be dark here or elsewhere. Good. I will face it. ”Ragnar's desire to go beyond facing danger deepens, and the Seer sees how fearless Odin's descendant is. “You can't even imagine what's going to happen. And you're right, Ragnar Lothbrok, not to ask for anything. Except probably for your sons.”Ragnar sees them again as dead on the frozen lake and is unfortunately forced to ask the question in a brutal, hateful tone:“Are they alive ?? ”“Yes, but you know that death is there, spying like a predator. A predator against others predators. ”A foreshadowing of things to come, and Ragnar deep feel it He feels the death and not as a King, nor as a descendant of Odin, nor as a Viking, he will be ready to fight as “Ragnar”. The fire  consumes him slowly , and the Seer savors the sensation.The wind continues to make itself heard in this empty place, of a gloomy green and vast with the crows which react, which fly being a sign of Odin, the Seer and Ragnar.Athelstan then looked out of the window, doing the best he can but feeling weak all the same, wishing he could do so much more.“I don't want the Seer to come near us. “declares Saga in fear. “Athelstan...Protect our daughter. ”Athelstan cradles Ida against him. The baby rests her head on his shoulder. He doesn't take his eyes off Ragnar and the Seer.“Do you see him too ? “Einar asks, trying to reassure his wife.“Yes. He won't come near you. He's here for Ragnar.”" You are not at all like any christians ."" Any Christians ?  No Einar . I'm not as you said . "He doesn't just see him. He feels the Seer, which can also be a bad sign. He also has other sensations...which explains the state of his hands.
Come back, Ragnar. Please don't stay with him...
 The Seer suddenly disappeared and Ragnar saw the crows heading for distant mountains. It was getting colder and colder as the mountains began to snow and the sea began to stir. Ragnar also feels a change in himself. His eyes become both blue and violet. He makes sure no one leaves the farm. Especially Athelstan, and sees him looking at him with apprehension as he waits with little Ida.He turns around, seeing the illusion of his parents looking at him with pain. Ragnar grunts slightly as he hears the thunder related with the wind and leaves.He had to confront....He had to. He must . He enters the farmhouse and looks more than exhausted. He immediately tries to reassure Enir and Saga:“ He has nothing to do with you. He wants nothing to do with you...He's the least of my worries. Do the same. ”He begins to tremble and Athelstan is forced to give Ida back to Saga, approaching Ragnar and touching his cheek:“ You're cold...”  He murmurs perturbed. Saga prepares a soup to warm him up. Ragnar sits up and his eyes return to their normal blue color.“ I know you have to take risks...I understand. Warm up and eat, great warrior. Ragnar takes the bowl of soup and drinks it slowly.“ I'll be fine...” he says with a small smile. “Thank you Saga...I'll go and lie down..Both of you ,try to sleep. I will keep my guard up. ”He sees Athelstan's concerned face and whispers to him:“ Don't look so worried ." The same words he said to him already injuried before his fight to death against Earl Haraldson.“ We want to help you, Ragnar. For our family, for you. ”“No, you can't. You are already survivors by protecting and especially protecting your daughter is the most important. Both the Seer and Odin are connected with my past. And against the Draugars..there will be solutions.”His head began to spin and he slowly moved towards the bedroom, ready to lie down. He then whispers “Athelstan” wanting him by his side.Before joining him, Athelstan reassures Einar and Saga as much as he can. “ Despite what you hear, what you may feel. Stay together, never give up. Good night Ida ”He stroke gently her little cheek and he immediately joins Ragnar, who is lying down.Exhausted, almost ready to fall asleep, but he can't. Athelstan stands beside him and Ragnar takes the cross in his hand and looks at it. “ I won't sleep."“ Fine . I won't sleep either. I'm also related to the Seer, maybe Odin for other reasons. It's going to be a long night."“ What lies ahead will be long and difficult. ”“Are you less cold?” Athelstan asks, massaging his arm.“ That's better. And your hands ? "" It's okay . " then Athelstan smile slowly.They hear the wind and the crows at the same time and remain alert, looking at each other and promising not to give up.

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The next morning, Ragnar hears the birds, the sky turns blue and hears the waves. He gently closes his eyes, not having slept all night, and breathes slowly, returning to his normal state. He turns his head, having a bad feeling . Athelstan isn't there. He gets up quickly, hoping to find him in the main room of the farmhouse. He then sees Einar and Saga feeding Ida. Saga quickly ran to him, seeing his distraught look .“ Athelstan preferred to let you rest a little. He's just outside on the sand. He's safe, you know. "Ragnar looks at him for a moment. He can see right away that he needs to be alone. Let's him enjoy it, he will come and join him.He then hears little Ida and Einar approaches, taking the child towards Ragnar.“She seems to be interested in you too, King Ragnar...”Ragnar sighs slightly “Einar...I never really wanted to be King...Being here allows me to be what I originally was. Like you. ”As he said these words, he looked at Ida, quite moved by how beautiful she was.“I know, but I'll never get used to it, I'm sorry. ”“No, it's all right. “He then sees Ida insist on approaching him. She's as intelligent as Gyda with her lively eyes. He trembles a little as he takes her slowly. And he recalls so many beautiful memories of holding Gyda in his arms.He holds Ida against him for a long time. He doesn't cry, but he's happy to have her against him. Crying? He's cried so much. Or just hide his emotions from the world to stay strong. But all he feels is happiness, holding Ida like the most precious thing in the world.He finally came back to reality, slowly handing her back to Einar.“Thank you...I'm going to join Athelstan”. He says nothing more, savors the warmth of the sun and runs to join Athelstan sitting on the sand, looking up at the sky.Athelstan turns and gives him the most beautiful smile.“We survived that night...And look at that sky...I could see that darkness..When you were with the Seer. Yes, this world belongs to him more than ever.Ragnar remained silent, his head low and thoughtful. Only willing to listen for a little while to the sound of waves and birds. It's a night and day that Ragnar himself is not yet fully used to, even though it's also his world.“You were in a condition..I didn't know what to do when you came back. I felt powerless. ”“You're not powerless at all, Athelstan. Hey, smile for me. ”
Athelstan looked at him and smiled gently, and Ragnar found for a moment the man he had met. This brave, yet fragile monk. But Ragnar feels the power in Athelstan as time goes by, more and more.“Everyone has their moments of doubt...Just as I have doubts about returning to Kattegat...I would do it, but only for my sons. And we will go to Paris this our dreams . "" Of course . But never doubt about it..You are a good father Ragnar . You are human before everything. That's the reason . I saw you with Ida. ”Ragnar smiled, caressing his hands on the sand:“She reminds me of Gyda. ”“Maybe it's a sign...Gyda will always be there. I feel her at times. She saved me.”Ragnar then thanked Gyda for saving Athelstan, if that was really the case. God he loved his daughter as he loves Athelstan.“I must go back to the forest. There are things I must find once the nights are over. Come with me...”“ Always. ” After eating, Ragnar and Athelstan set off on foot to the forest, looking around. The birds are back and so are the crows. Ragnar knows why. The forest is even more impacted, with damaged trees and leaves beginning to fall as if it were autumn. But the ground is gray and hard as stone. They're both carrying two shovels, but it won't be an easy task to dig up this dirt.“What do you think you will find underneath ? “ Athelstan asks, ready to dig, but Ragnar stops him with a wave of his arm, saying bitterly :“Look what he's carved on the trunks. "New words in Norse. Athelstan understands that these horrible words are related to what the Draugars do with their victims.Ragnar doesn't hesitate to start digging with all his strength and Athelstan starts but has more difficulties. This enrages him and Ragnar stops him abruptly:“Don't hurt your hands ! ”“No, Ragnar, it doesn't hurt. I want to help you, I promised. ”Even Ragnar, despite all his strength, tires of digging and both try to be ready for what they're about to see. Even exhausted, the two of them will always remain stronger and more determined at every step.The hard, gray earth begins to crack, and piles of frozen corpses, others charred or dismembered, fall into a deep black hole.Ragnar immediately took Athelstan by the arm and ordered him to step back.Athelstan is nauseated by the sight . all these bodies . A woman's decapitated head falls slowly into the hole and Ragnar does everything to protect Athelstan, forcing him to step back again.“ Ragnar I am fine. ” Whisper Athelstan emotional .
 But Ragnar doesn't let him go, staring into the infinite hole. The crows are stirring. He has a lump in his throat as he curses Odin. He who worshipped his gods so much, now curses them. He curses all the gods. He then sees the bodies of his parents again...Of course they're not here .... It's been longtime...What's left of them where they were killed ?“Let's go Athelstan. ”On their way back, Athelstan was stunned by what he had seen. But he had expected it. Part of him, anyway.“ It's horrible..I can't imagine what you must be feeling...”“At least ..my parents didn't decompose under this ground ..and my sons will never go here ..”Has he really put Athelstan in danger ? This is becoming his worst fear, but he's doing everything he can to hide it. Back at the farm, Einar and Saga are relieved to see them again. Night begins to fall slowly, but this time no one feels the presence of the Seer. Ragnar and Athelstan are still upset, but they had to find out more about the Daugars' actions.Saga serves them some food and asks anxiously:“ Pray to Odin to make it stop...Can you do that ? ”Ragnar tries to eat as much as he can and replies to Saga with sincerity:“ It's not as simple as that. No sacrifice can stop the Daugars. Not even a prayer. You live there. The most important thing is to protect your girl. Odin won't help you. I'm sorry."“But we're here. Athelstan declares soothingly. “I'll pray. I have my own way of doing things.” Ragnar ate more briskly, his anger suddenly expressed in a strong hunger. Ida then looks at Athelstan with a small smile.“She still wants you, Athelstan. ”Athelstan is touched and gently takes Ida on his lap. Ragnar remains preoccupied with so many things that he finally gets up and looks out of the window. The night seems so calm .... Strangely calm. Even the color of the sky is a beautiful, appeasing black. Or so Ragnar imagines. A normal night. In the distance, once again, he can see the snow-covered mountains.Athelstan stays with Ida for a while but prefers to join Ragnar. He gently returns the little one to Einar who then whispers:“Thanks both of you for being here...whatever happens. ”“Of course. “replied Athelstan gently.At that moment, seeing Ragnar alone and lost even though he's there with him , Athelstan can only think about one thing...How much he loves this man more than anything else. That he has learned to truly love him. He was devoted to him very quickly when he was his slave, but deep down, he never wanted to leave him, even after being a free man. His heart belongs to Ragnar. His heart live for Ragnar.Ragnar turns and gives him a gentle smile and looks up at the sky again.“I know you've got something on your mind...You're not the only one who sees this night as soothing...I feel it too. But you're not planning to go back to the forest ?” asks a worried Athelstan.“No. There's something about going to the place where my parents were murdered that attracts me. Part of me wanted one day to take my sons - all my sons - to see the place where I lived. It's their world too. But..I'm happy it's you. Because you're coming with me.Athelstan smiled and said:“This is becoming a game. Yes, I will come. I've always come with you. At my own risk . ”
Uppsula , Wessex , anywhere
But deep down, Athelstan never regretted following Ragnar. Even there.“And who knows, maybe one day...Or one night, your sons will be there with you. ”Ragnar shrugs:"Maybe. But right now it's with you . I can't ask more."Ragnar continues to watch the snow begin to fall. For the first time in a long time, he feels reassured.

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Ragnar and Athelstan watch the snow slowly fall as the Viking King slowly becomes the child in him who lost his parents. His father assured him that, as Odin's descendant, he would be guided, and this happened when Ragnar saw a shadow with a pitchfork and crows. Odin sent him all the feelings of his parents, assuring him that they would always be happy in Valhalla.At this moment, Ragnar feels more than ever this connection with his ascendant. Odin then turns to Athelstan and recognizes this man who represents a symbol for Ragnar and for the world of the gods. Athelstan looks at his cross.As much as Ragnar is attached to Odin, Athelstan is attached to the snow, so pure, so beautiful. Ragnar surely wants to confront his past fears and mourn his parents for good. But also to find the first home of his life.They get closer to this familiar place, where of course there are no houses left. Everything is destroyed. Gone.Ragnar has the impression of being in a dream where only the mountains, the snow and especially Athelstan accompany him. Athelstan looks up at the endless snow and sky and silently begins to pray. A prayer to none of the gods, but to the stars. For himself and especially Ragnar. He thanks the universe for being here with him at this time.The place where Ragnar and Rollo grew up seemed to be a place where many villagers and Vikings lived. It may be a secret place in Kattegat, even more than the farm where Ragnar created his own family with Lagertha, but there was a whole life there.Athelstan finds a piece of wood from the destroyed houses under the snow. He feels more and more part of Ragnar's world. Not the Viking, not the pagan, but the person. In his heart and soul.
He turned and saw Ragnar slowly lowering himself onto the snow.It was here.In this very spot that his parents were killed by the Draugars. He remembers how his father fought as hard as he could, and how his mother was both protective and a fighter. Sometimes he and Lagertha would look up at night and think of them, especially after his nightmares. And to see that they were a reflection of his parents .Ragnar puts his hand on the snow and Athelstan looks at him attentively and bends down as well. Ragnar no longer feels Odin, but the love of his parents and the love of Athelstan.
Raising his hand, he sees for a minute traces of blood... What remains of them is tied to the snow. Athelstan then also sees these traces of blood. It's all an illusion.Athelstan then removes his cross and brings it to Ragnar, who looks at him in amazement and confusion. He feels the full power of the cross around his neck until his heart, and the blood on his hand has disappeared.Athelstan puts his hand on the snow and, despite his scar, feels nothing. Just the cold of the snow, but it doesn't hurt. Ragnar puts his hand back down and there's no trace of blood. He remains stunned but silent. No, it's not completly the effect of the cross, but Athelstan giving him comfort. Blood has to disappear for a while. Especially when it's related to family.If time could stand still and they could both remain where his parents' souls rest. Both in Valhalla and here in the snow.Ragnar clutches the cross to his chest and sees that Athelstan is starting to feel cold. He takes Athelstan's hands and they warm each other, wanting to stay as long as possible in this moment of bliss, surrounded by the spirit of Ragnar's parents.“Thank you.” Whisper Ragnar very softly, his temple pressed against Athelstan's.

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Ragnar hears murmurs of grief in the Norse language. He stands up abruptly and sees Odin again, as if waiting for him in the forest. Just him. The Seer is at his side. The mood changes abruptly and he moves further and further in the direction of the crows. He feels a burning in his veins.Athelstan immediately sees the change in his demeanor and takes him by the shoulders:“ Ragnar, don't look there , we have to go, look at me Ragnar, let's go back to Einar and Saga.Think about Ida. All your family "
Think about me
Ragnar then regained his composure and took Athelstan by the shoulders in his turn :“ We're going to leave, Athelstan, right away, but never forget why I'm here, why I had to go alone first”.Athelstan was about to retort with sadness, but Ragnar reassured him:“ You are my most powerful strengh of all weapons i can have. You remember what I've brought with me right ? ”“ Yes, I do...”They turn at the same time as Odin and the Seer disappear. The chilling whispers are no longer heard. But the wind grows stronger and colder.Ragnar and Athelstan run as fast as they can. Athelstan has learned so much about survival that he runs as fast as Ragnar. The adrenalin rises, but the wind becomes more and more violent.The draugars begin to awaken and Ragnar tries to avoid Odin's call, while Athelstan feels more and more the presence of the Seer in his mind. They soon arrive at the farm and the horses in the fences are moving in all directions.Ragnar has two priorities: destroy the draugars and save Athelstan.He hears that inhuman sound again and goes straight to the bedroom to control his impulses, which are awakened by Odin's power. Illusion or not, it's in him.Athelstan quickly joins him and takes Ragnar's face gently:“You're too cold, Ragnar, lie down... I know you have to destroy them, but not like this...”Ragnar breathes quickly and heavily, like a beast trying to howl when he hears that sound again...A voice in pain, crying, asking for help...But he doesn't take his eyes off Athelstan and his breath returns to normal.“I must combine with Odin to destroy them, Athelstan. Remember what I said when I announced . It was always him”“It's true, but let me help you please... I'm not the monk you knew. I can fight, I've saved you many times...I've never hesitated to save you because I wanted to and you taught me to.”“Not against this. This has nothing to do with the human race and its weaknesses. these things have no weaknesses. Can't you hear that sound coming from the forest? Listen carefully...”This time Athelstan doesn't need to close his eyes and concentrates, but he can't hear anything. His mind is taken over by something else...nothing to do with Odin, nor thor and that cry...“No. No ! i try but it doesn't work ” He can't comprehend the effect Ragnar feels this time.Ragnar then stands up and pulls the ancient royal sword from his large bag. As ancient as the world itself. He looks at the cross and hands it back to Athelstan.“Wear it for me when I leave, and I'll be back later this night. I will , I promise.” Einar and Saga try to calm Ida, who is crying lightly. The dark, icy, morbid atmosphere seems to be approaching their home ever closer. Ragnar finds them panicking and orders:“Above all, barricade yourselves as much as possible." He want to make sure that all the windows are well closed .“Everything that happens gets more powerful because you're here, isn't it?...” Einar then sees the sword. ” King Ragnar ? "At that moment, Ragnar felt guilty and answered with a smirk. “ Yes. We could say it that way."He returns to the room and sits down, knowing that in a few hours he'll come out again, probably to meet Odin. Athelstan sits next to him and they wait. They hope that Einar and Saga will be able to protect themselves. There have been too many deaths...Ragnar looks at Athelstan pensively and does everything to reassure him:“Look at me... I'll protect you. Nothing will happen to you. ”“And what about you? Who will protect you? ”They look at each other for a long time, understanding the danger of the situation. Instead, they hold their hands and Ragnar hopes that Athelstan will get some sleep.  As the night passes and the bedroom fire dies down, Ragnar tries not to make any noise, seeing that Athelstan has really fallen asleep. He gently rises from the bed and sleeps, giving Athelstan one last look.In the main room, while hearing the crows, the wind and above all that agonizing voice, Ragnar hears Ida, who doesn't seem to be asleep. He sees Einar and Saga sleeping and gently takes the little girl in his arms:“Why aren't you asleep ? “He gives her a loving smile as if she were his daughter." You've got your own strength as well..Already a survivor, like my daughter was, my mother..Lagertha. But you don't have to be a Pagan to be a survivor. You have to want it, and you do want it...Don't be afraid, brave Ida.”He holds her close for a moment and rests her gently against Saga, who moves slowly.“ Ragnar. “ she murmurs. Ragnar approaches her and places his finger on his lips showing his percing blue eyes. Not a sound. He leaves the house and closes it quickly to protect the family.He sees again this dull atmosphere again, and this fading dirty water. Odin is there waiting for him. Sword in hand, Ragnar heads for the forest in the freezing cold. But the closer he gets to Odin, the less cold he feels. The crows also head for the forest. Ragnar goes with the most determined step. He can't stand that voice any longer. Athelstan woke up with a start, breathing hard and sweating. Ragnar...He's not here. He's alone..He feels so alone.
I'll protect you, nothing will happen to you. 
Athelstan holds the cross. A powerful bond between him and Ragnar. A bond beyond paganism and Christianity. He needs water. He hears the crows and a laugh he can only recognize . The Seer's. He knew that sooner or later he would speak to him.Athelstan anguishes... He's so afraid that Ragnar won't come back and that they won't be able to protect this family. He can no longer feel so helpless. Knowing Ragnar is out there alone, even though he's with Odin, imagining him being killed. No. He could never let that happen. He would die. He'd have nothing to live for.He comes out of the room and sees Saga cradling Ida and she sees Athelstan looking pale and worried.“Athelstan, don't go either. Please don't.”He bends down slightly and promises her in his soft, reassuring voice: “I'll stay here, Saga, I know it's hard to fall asleep. But nothing will happen to us. Trust me. I just need to...” He stares into this small room with a mirror. Something draws him in.“I just need to freshen up,” he says absently. In turn, Saga felt a pain in her stomach. An anguish she's never felt before. Athelstan stands up, puts his hand on Ida's head without looking at her and heads for the room, closing the door. Saga clutched Einar, who took her in his arms, trying to calm her down. Who can really sleep...Athelstan looks at himself in the mirror for a long time and sees all his weakness and fear. He must not be afraid. It's human, but it doesn't help. He's been through so much. Behind the mirror, he sees the Seer with a smile on his face and he turns around abruptly.  Ragnar feels the Seer's presence but sees only Odin meeting him in the forest. The ground is covered in frost and the trees are completely dead and damaged. He sees bloodied, frozen corpses and hears that voice again speaking in Norse. Odin stands beside him and Ragnar stares angrily. A connection is made between them and Ragnar's skin becomes lifeless, his eyes completely dark purple. Odin's power transmits itself into his soul. “Help me...I'm in pain...” Ragnar sees a young girl lying on the icy ground among the dead. Blonde, with a blue dress, her face in pain and in tears. She was shivering with cold.He quickly approaches her and touches her face. Pain passed between them as Odin disappeared.“The Draugars...They're here..”“ Calm down...I'm here , you know who i am right i am sure.” The girl seems to have trouble recognizing him, but immediately, startled, she whispers:“Ragnar Lothbrok.”Ragnar began to strangle her with all his strength and the girl turned into Draugar. It's pure decoy and Ragnar knew it. As powerful as the creature is, ready to kill Ragnar with a sharp blow, Ragnar takes the sword and kills it savagely, slowly. Pain...as he wants to feel pain. . He's not his instrument. He's his spiritual son. How proud he is . Athelstan tries to ignore the Seer, wanting to make him disappear. But the old one advances towards him. Athelstan warns him : “Don't ever alert me to a potential danger again. I know what I want. Especially when it comes to my faith. "“ Stay on that bridge, Noble Stone. Aren't you perfect like that ? You're no more a Viking than a pure Christian. It's in front of this mirror that you can see who you really are. It's not for nothing that you're so glorified by your one and only former god, recognized by Odin himself, and loved by this earthly soul. Ragnar Lothbrok. ”Athelstan looked at him as if he was going to scream with grief, but no...“You thought it was this girl, the princess of Wessex, but no..you always knew it was him. ”“ Right..Shall we play the question game ? Why are you telling me all this? What more can I do to help Ragnar?”The seer suddenly grabbed his face: “Aaahhh I can see it.....Look at you well Noble Stone and remember why that word is important even if it is your name. Stone. Reveal yourself for Ragnar Lothbrok. This is what you want.”“I want to help Ragnar at the risk of my life. I always have. ”“ So help the howling beast. Be yourself purely fearsome. ”The Seer disappears and Athelstan immediately looks at himself in the mirror. He finds a forged scissor and remembers the moment when he tried to repair his tonsure and sobbed with dismay and pain. This time it's different. Totally different. He cut sharply his hair until it become short.His eyes become firm and hard, his blue eyes fixed on what he sees. The image of Ragnar as a dead man increases his anger. He looks at himself for a long time, almost discovering another man, although he is still Athelstan. Neither Paein, nor Christian. Maybe both. Despite everything, he had promised to spill blood for Ragnar. He will. Ragnar, his face bloody from killing this draugars, feels Odin's power within him and starts to howl like a beast.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Ragnar runs as fast as he can after killing this creature, Odin reappears following him as if Ragnar could be his own God. Ragnar can, as it were, read his thoughts, although Odin, like the Christ, has no words.

Whatever happens, you will always be my most beautiful incarnation on earth Ragnar Lothbrok. Sigurd and Alfhild have always been proud of you. But i can understand...

He didn't finish his sentence and disappeared from Ragnar's mind, who stopped abruptly to catch his breath. He feels the Draugars slowly awakening in the forest and then sees the Seer in front of the beach.“Poor girl...King Ragnar here you are in your greatest glory, but you won't have finished suffering. For the first and last time I'm going to have to tell you: I am sorry. ”The wind becomes so strong that Ragnar almost falls over, but tries to get up, screaming. He tries to get to the farm, but is held back by the Draugars' power. “No...No !!!! “ He roar like the pure beast he become.The closer he gets to the farm, the closer he feels the presence of these horrors. He must return to the forest... He has no choice but to face them by returning to the forest. Athelstan opened his eyes abruptly, hearing Ragnar's howl echoing throughout the village, in all its chaos. He opened the door to the small room and saw Einar and Saga holding Ida tightly.“Athelstan? What's going on?...Your hair....”All three are alive, but the worst thing is that Ragnar is not there. “ Ragnar....” He can't think of anything else. After his conversation with the Seer nothing will stop him to find Ragnar.“He's not here..” Einar frightenedly reveals, trying to calm his daughter.The farm begins to shake, everyone falls and Ida cries.“No, Ida ! It's going to be all right, I promise.”Athelstan gets up and heads for the door, knowing that he is also expected to destroy the Draugars. Just for love. And that's enough.“Athelstan ! Ragnar wouldn't want you to go out !!!! ”But Athelstan feels an unusual rage and leaves the farm without a word. As soon as he's outside, the first thing he sees are the horses, all killed, frozen and decapitated by the draugars. He looks at them for a long time, to confront this danger and this image once and for all. He won't be afraid. He won't see Ragnar like this. No...He searches desperately for Ragnar clutching his cross. He has nothing...no weapon, just the cross around his neck. He clutches it so tightly that his scars reopen and blood runs down his forehead.He looks at the sky. His original god. He doesn't really have a god anymore. But he feels watched in the moment by Jesus Christ.

Forgive me or not Lord

This is

my human choice above all

His hands continue to bleed, but he feels no pain. These scars are in the past for him. These visions, even if real, are purely in the past.As much as he was used to seeing the Seer who was real, for all to see, even him living in Kattegat, he wasn't expecting to see....Odin. Facing him. Athelstan then becomes frightened, as much as he is speechless at seeing the Pagan God face to face with him, he is afraid that he will give him bad news. Odin only looks at him and even looks at the cross he carries and touches it delicately with his long hands. Athelstan can't move, tetanized, and he ends up looking at this God, so important here, so important in relation to Ragnar, that he asks him, his eyes expressing sadness :“ Where's Ragnar ? “ He asks worriedly, almost overwhelmed, lost in the middle of this dark, dangerous and cold place.Odin replies by slowly caressing his cheek, seeing Athelstan's magnificence. His soul, his heart, his whole being. He is a pure gem. He wears that name so well.
Yes, I understand .
Athelstan knows that this gesture is the answer to his question. Ragnar is alive in the forest. And Odin has disappeared.But he has no weapons.... Except for this axe, which won't be powerful enough to destroy the Draugars.Athelstan has this terrible self doubt and receives an invisible blow to the face. Such an icy blow. Draugars can be invisible. He then remembers the words ....
Be fearsome
Ragnar had told him that despite possessing the Northern Sword, Athelstan was still his greatest strength. Rage returns and Athelstan rises to the forest ready to fight with his axe but also his other strongest weapon. his soul : Ragnar. In the forest, Ragnar can barely see or speak, with odin's spirit once again guiding him. But he feels the presence of the Draugars. He walks over the corpses and crushes the frozen ones. He feels no soul coming from these victims. He knows that Athelstan is out there too. As they search for the creatures like predators, they try to find each other.Ragnar then sees before him the largest Draugar ever. This creature wore raven-like fur, long horns, a build resembling Ragnar's, a skeleton head and a white beard. Unusual, but Ragnar starts to smile. It's going to be so much fun. He doesn't need Odin to have the pleasure of slaughtering it, even if it takes time and his own blood.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Ragnar screams, feeling Odin's strength within him ready to attack the Draugar, and as he touches him with the blade, he feels the pain at the same time as the Draugar. 
Of course, that's how it works. Everything stays eternally connected until death. Nothing impresses Ragnar any more. He risks death by destroying it. The Draugar just growls in pain, staring into Ragnar's intense, icy eyes.In his turn, Ragnar receives several invisible blows and blood begins to run down his face and the right side of his neck. 
Will he end up dismembered like his parents? Technically it's possible. But it won't happen. Until the last second.Draugars appear behind him, rising slowly but attacking swiftly with their claws. Attacking Odin's descendant could endanger Valhalla to the point of Ragnarok, but Odin will do everything to prevent this, even Ragnar, even though he's not interested in Valhalla at the moment. He doesn't want to leave this earth.He gets up despite being hit several times and attacks and dismembers with an intense, almost inhuman rage, his face bleeding. Nothing could stop him. He then remembers attacking, pillaging, killing Earl Haralson, and above all King Horik, the war at Mercia. With these memories alone, Ragnar needs to bring out all his most horrible impulses. In the distance, he spots Athelstan looking for him in battle. Mixed between physical exhaustion and uncontrollable strength, Ragnar tries to reach him but has no time to react or say anything, finding himself violently propelled by the leader of this macabre army. An almost dead, monstrous replica of himself. Deep in the forest, Athelstan gets colder and colder, but he doesn't care. He hears the murmurs of the draugars but they doesn't speak.  They doesn't have to. He knows he's prey, just as he wants to rip them to shreds. He takes out his axe and thinks of Ragnar. And he sees him in battle. In turn, Athelstan is propelled against a tree and sees Draugars, some looking like warriors, others like his former brother monks from Lidinsfarne. At this point, his hands continue to bleed and this time he feels the pain as if he were being crushed again. He screams in pain, remembering that terrible moment in Wessex...Ragnar...Ragnar...Just him. And Athelstan lets his greatest instincts come to him and attacks without precedent, rediscovering the fighting skills that Ragnar taught him.

Never hesitate

Oh no, He won't. Far from it. With his axe, Athelstan attacks as many Draugar armies as possible. Is he fighting for nothing? Surely... At the risk of his own life, perhaps. But only his bond with Ragnar allows him to fight without a second thought, even if it's for no reason at all. Ragnar is the reason. He hears the Seer's sinister laughter in his head and screams :" Not now !! “ Athelstan has this fighting style that makes him more powerful than ever, revealing himself more and more with a heart of stone as he kills these monsters who may have been human beings centuries ago.He received another blow to the stomach and struggled to breathe in the face of pain and cold. He was about to be dismembered by a Draugar with both white and gray female features. With his axe and his anger, he used his weapon as a shield and howled as he pushed the ghostly but real beast away, then got on top of it and sliced its entire body with his axe. For Athelstan, the fight seems endless. It's as if he's trapped in a loop. He'll protect this family, but above all, he wants to see Ragnar again, whatever his own fate. The ground becomes extremely cold like ice. On the sand, now almost slush, Ragnar fights body and soul against his dead double. He can recognize himself perfectly, having the same almost mortal wounds, the same way of provoking each other, by howling, especially Ragnar showing his crazy and dangerous look. Two beasts clashing relentlessly. Ragnar ended up cursing Odin once again, and above all himself, as he found himself in the most dangerous fight of all. He wouldn't end up like his father. Thinking of his parents, Ragnar throws his head against the Draugar's head, which begins to crack, and then he sees Horik again... He screams as he continues to throw blows, but the Draugar quickly grabs him by the fur and they both fall into the water, without stopping the fight.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Ragnar dreams about greatness, discovery, exploration, his family, all his life where his father taught him to be the greatest warrior and he did the same for Bjorn. Odin transferred to him the power of curiosity, of discovery beyond what even any God could know. So much regret at having lost and found. But giving up was out of the question.Letting himself sink into this water where he can see nothing, everything is practically black, he sees the Draugar appear and Ragnar is stabbed, but thanks to Odin's power, fortunately he doesn't succumb. The Draugar in turn screams in pain.Any man would have drowned, stabbed to death, but in the moment Ragnar can't deny his ancestors his right to survive. And his own strength. He tries to rise to the surface feeling himself dying, it seems endless as if the water is trapped under a block of ice.
I must live..I must live..Odin...If I must die to live again..Do what you have to do.
He reached the surface, catching his breath as the sand filled with blood. He feels his last minutes coming, yet he's never felt his body so warm...Odin is inside him trying to warm him up when the horror returns and Ragnar holds the Draugar sword identical to his own. He screams as he stabs him in the heart and Ragnar feels a sharp pain in his chest. The large draugar slowly dies to allow Ragnar to suffer.Ragnar fights with all his strength and his eyes move towards the forest. The Draugar finally disappears into the dust. Ragnar doesn't care if it's coming back. He uses his survival instincts and crawls too slowly over the sand, which is becoming dry again, but the icy night is still there... The pain is too strong and Ragnar is slowly dying, murmuring :“Odin...” Athelstan is out of breath, staring with pure hatred at these horrors. No, there are no other words. He can only hate them, but until now... Hatred. He's never let himself feel it. Not even towards those who hurt him. Because that's his nature. But here it is, changed, transformed. He cursed Christ for punishing him in some way, because he always chose Ragnar.Whereas Odin recognizes and accepts him as he has been and what he represents in Ragnar's life. But these beasts only accentuate his hatred, and yet this will remain the greatest adventure of his life. But always, above all, out of love for Ragnar. Athelstan has this tendency to stare down those who despise him, like Floki and others. He always stares back if harassed or attacked. Faced with these monsters, that's what he does, his clear blue gaze can be a weapon. If a look could kill, and once again, Ragnar has taught him not to let himself be victimized by any human species. Even Largertha, with her calm but direct voice he saw her exemple.. He'll never forget.He spits blood and receives another blow to the chest, then clutches his cross. He's probably waiting for a fatal blow, but he'll give one too. He just longs to be in that eternally soft, comforting warmth. That's all he wants...He thinks back to Ragnar and sees one of the Draugars ready to kill him. And that's what he's doing...Athelstan begins to feel the cold more than ever...Blanket...Fireplace...A simple candle to warm himself would be enough.And that unconditional love that never abandoned him...With these thoughts, Athelstan kills the creature with the last of his strength. The creature vanished into dust. The whole army of the living-dead disappeared from the forest, but Athelstan is dying frozen...This is what's written on the tree trunk behind him. But he fights, trying to stay awake. His hands become as hard as stone and the Seer appears.“Noble Stone..Athelstan . You were so brave . So fearsome . You did even more than i thought . The Draugars disappeared thanks to your thirst to fight for Ragnar Lothbrok. You kept your promise. You have two questions."“ Ragnar...He's...I can't feel him...Is he alive ? ”The seer has a semblance of sympathy for Athelstan, seeing this young man fight with all his strength not to die.“No. But he'll come back to you.”Athelstan is totally confused and is ready to let himself die just by understanding that Ragnar is...dead.“ I'm going to die ?  He asks more and more feebly.“Everything depends on you. I advise you to keep fighting. Ragnar Lothbrok will be back. Odin and I can't do anything for you. Nor your own God. ”Athelstan can no longer speak and can only attempt to stay alive, but this becomes increasingly difficult and the Seer disappears.
He begins to shiver more and more from the freezing cold, feeling his heart ready to stop, but he breathes quickly to keep as much warmth as possible inside him, and eventually falls unconscious.Ragnar lies on the sand as dawn begins to rise. In his mind, Ragnar finds himself with his parents, his daughter Gyda, all his sons, Lagertha whom he had loved. Odin approaches him and puts his hand on his head. He disappears and Ragnar suddenly opens his eyes and takes a deep breath. He comes back to life feeling so good, he feels totally himself again...His eyes are a sparkling blue and immediately his first word is instinctively in a weak voice trying to regain normal breathing:“Athelstan..”

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Ragnar tries to stand up with all his strength, but he is still very weak. He keeps looking into the forest, hoping to catch a sight of Athelstan. But nothing. Dawn is just around the corner, yet all seems peaceful. But not for Ragnar. His heart is pounding with fear.“Athelstan...” His voice remains weak and he tries to stand up. “Athelstan ! ”He advances slowly and by all the gods as he would like to run but every step makes him suffer excruciatingly. He's come back from death, and coming back to life hurts so much physically that he can fall again. He has lost all strength from Odin yet, the will to find Athelstan keeps him going and he curses any pain. Athelstan lies pale as if asleep, only the wind from where he is in the forest can be heard. It's dead calm. His face shows how much he has suffered, how hard he has fought, but now it's as if he has found peace in resting between life and death. Einar and Saga no longer felt the presence of the Draugars and the sky began to turn blue despite the usual cold.They look at each other and Saga, as usual, hugs Ida. The little one is totally calmed. And they themselves feel no longer in danger. But they didn't come back.They open the door to their farm and the horses have come back to life, intact and calm. The beach is peaceful...as if it's a place they've always dreamed of. The sun has a gentle warmth. Despite this, Saga has a bad feeling.The two of them automatically walk towards the horror lying on the ground. Athelstan looks like he's dead. Ida puts her hand over her mouth, unable to believe it, and starts to cry. Einar, totally disturbed, moves closer to him and touches his forehead. He is frozen.“Athelstan ? “ Saga cried out.They turn towards the beach devastated and see Ragnar, who notices them and starts walking as fast as he can, breathing heavily. Einar came towards him:“Don't look at him, please, I'm sorry ! ” “ No ! No Let go of me !! Where is he !Ragnar shouts, pushing violently, he has regained all his strength and when he sees Saga crying he understands and sees Athelstan lying there. He's understood everything, but he won't let him die.Seeing Saga touch him, his possessive side takes over. Only him has the right to touch Athelstan . No one else. “ No ! Back off ! don't touch him BACK OFF ! “ Saga is frightened and Einar tries to comfort her.Ragnar pays no attention to Ida or Saga's cries. He wants to be alone with Athelstan and bring him back to him. He crouches down and  he takes Athelstan in his arms. He is completly frozen . Worse than when he found him asleep in his house . He hug him tightly and warm him with his own fur. He speaks to him in panic :“It's okay It's okay ! I got you look at me ! ” He pats his cheeks. Athelstan's heart still beating and he trying to fight, but only Ragnar can save him. “ Wake up ! Wake up ! “ He keeps saying, starts crying and ends up kissing him on the forehead, all over his face and hands fastly, all the while crying :“ Fight ! Fight ! “He continues to kiss him on the face over and over again to give him the most warmth possible while holding him close. He holds his face and ends up kissing him lots of times on his cold and blue lips, long and hard, without trying to understand. Keeping him alive to bring him back. he continues to talk to him while continuing to kiss him. This gesture is purely human and desperate, but with all the love he feels for Athelstan:“ I love you !.. Wake up !.. I'm here !  I love you !.. C'mon.."Ragnar kept kissing him on the mouth, crying his eyes out, until Athelstan began to breathe more normally and slowly opened his eyes and recognize the most beautiful face he ever saw in his existence. “Ragnar...” They hug slowly and Ragnar continues to cradle him, warming him and kissing him on the forehead:“It's over... Everything's all right. I'm here.” Yes, Ragnar has come back just as the Seer predicted, and Athelstan is so reassured, so happy. He feels much better, slowly regaining vitality, and Ragnar's warmth, the most loving and comforting, makes him regain color. Ragnar touches his face and feels so relieved to see those beautiful blue eyes again, to have it against him alive.“Ragnar, I think I could walk...” declares Athelstan, no longer feeling paralyzed by the cold.“Are you sure ? ” Ragnar asks worriedly, briefly stroking his cheek.“Yes, I'll be fine." Despite this, Ragnar gently helps Athelstan to his feet and regrets the way he reacted to Einar and Saga. But when it concerns Athelstan, he loses all control. Ragnar helps Einar and Saga to prepare some hot beverage, despite the mild sunshine, the effect of the icy night is still present. Athelstan would like to take care of his wounded hands, but Ida wants to be with him. He tries to take her despite the scars and Saga moves towards him:“Are you all right, Athelstan ? ”Athelstan laughs lightly as Ida clutches him.“Yes, I'll take care of my hands later. She was afraid for us, wasn't she? ”Saga thought before answering honestly:“Yes, she felt that the two of you...You were ready to die to destroy the Draugars, but you succeeded...Ragnar”.Ragnar says nothing and gives her a tired little smile to assure her that they have indeed succeeded. He sits down next to Athelstan and looks at him quizzically with a grin. Of course, he always saw that he'd cut his hair. “You need to take care of your hands.”  He gently takes Ida in his arms and Athelstan takes some bandages. Ragnar stays by his side, making sure he can take care of them himself.He happily feeds Ida for a few minutes, and everyone savors this moment of tranquility.Athelstan sees that Saga is still a little worried about all these events.“We did it, Saga. We'll know more tonight, but I think we did it. I can feel it. “ He then looks at Ragnar, who calmly confirms this while automatically helping Athelstan with the bandages.“We did it. I can assure you of that. ”Einar asks them all the same:“Stay the night. It will probably be the last, but I beg of you ..King Ragnar..Athelstan ..”“Of course we'll stay .” mumbles Ragnar with a look that will always remain enigmatic and amused . “But don't worry, they won't be coming back. ”He moves closer to the window, continuing: “I don't need to wait until nightfall to be sure...Odin made that clear to me after he brought me back. He turns to Athelstan, who gently passes his wrist. He looks at Ragnar still with that admiration that nothing will break. ”“Come, Athelstan,” he says gently, holding out his hand. “You'll feel it too.”Athelstan sees that Ragnar's childhood home has regained some of its humanity. Something has changed profoundly, and you don't have to wait until nightfall to find out. “The horses... They too have come back to life . But we'll stay with you tonight too. I don't feel ready to say goodbye yet.”Ragnar smiled inwardly but continued quietly to look at the beach and the view.“Ragnar, how are you feeling ? “Ask Athelstan , putting his hand on his arm.Ragnar looks at him with a peaceful smile, showing how much Athelstan means to him:“Good little gem. I'm feeling good. ”

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

That night, Ragnar lay beside Athelstan, lightly touching his hair. He can't take his eyes off him and, as usual, Athelstan blushes very easily, even with his eyes closed. But he feels Ragnar's insistent stare. He begins to smile.“I knew you're not asleep." Ragnar says, teasing him. He then looks at his now short hair. “I really like your hair like that. I don't see the former monk I knew, but a warrior. But I cherish the warrior as I cherished the monk. ”Athelstan finally looked at him and smiled:“I was a little bored with long hair...Like you in a way. I feel better, I feel different. ”Athelstan starts laughing again, and Ragnar asks, amused and so happy to hear this laugh so precious as a real treasure:“What makes you laugh like that, hm ? ”“ Well , haven't you noticed that you and I always end up on a bed ? ”Ragnar pretends thinks about it and concludes: “ It's either a sign or our eternal fate . And i'm serious when i say that. "Athelstan remains thoughtful and says calmly:“There is no more danger..Here. You..” He tries to put the question gently :“Would you like to stay..Build something new in the future ? ” Ragnar looks at him thoughtfully:“No, I don't think so. It's the past. But one day we will take my sons there. And I'll say it again Athelstan... You were right. I could only take you to confront this trauma. But I was so scared when I saw you...”“I know...I was scared too. For you. When I heard from the Seer that you were dead, I...”Ragnar takes Athelstan against him:“Odin brought me back..But the most important thing, my great warrior, is that we stay together. And we will. We'll go home. We'll meet up with my sons..Lagertha, your lovely house, right ? ”They laugh together at the thought. And Ragnar continues to speak in euphoria:“But you and I will go off and discover other unknown places. Just you and me for a very long time. I will never leave you. ”“Neither would I, and you know that. I miss Kattegat a little but yes...I dream of going away with you too and we will. ”Ragnar will have no more nightmares, it's over, but he needs Athelstan against him:“Come, come. “ He gives him a long kiss on the head. “ Let's get some sleep, and tomorrow peacefully we'll leave again, alright ? ”Athelstan starts to fall asleep but puts his cross against Ragnar:“ Wear it tomorrow. It will be your turn.”Ragnar embraces him again, protectively, possessively, but above all lovingly:“Of course.”They slowly fall asleep, happy and at peace with each other.