Aldair, Master of Ships [antikvár]

DIVEIt is well known that the Vikonen are afraid of nothing on earth save an empty belly, though I know for certain there is one thing more that strikes fear in their hearts. It is believed among the Northmen that a warrior who perishes on dry soil is doomed for a thousand years to the seven hells of Rhagnir. There, his soul lingers in agony with the smells of the sea and good barley beer to taunt him. It is no small wonder the Vikonen are fearless fighters on the land, as well as masters of the sea.Thus, I read only displeasure in the broad features of Sig-nar-Haldring as we kept our long night vigil. He was decidedly unhappy so many leagues from salt water, but he was not afraideven this close to the forests of the Lauvectii.He was, however, sorely vexed vdth me. For it was my doing that had brought us to this place, and he had let me know more than once that he would not think highly of me if we chanced to die here."Old friend," I said, after we had squatted in the cold some time without speaking, "your thoughts are dark enough to choke vipers, if any are about at this hour. I would just as soon hear your grumblings as wonder at them."When he turned to me, I could see glints of starlight in stone-agate eyes. The night was chill with autumn's bite, and specks of hoarfrost tipped his furry ears and the hairs of his thick black pelt."It may be that you would not, Aldair. My thoughts are somewhat less than pleasant."5