The Death of Rulers of the Land

The blade that lit the surface of my skin ablaze sat there as I bled, waiting for the sweet release of death I held her, I was akin to die here so slowed my breathing, I waited for the call of death and as I answered I said to my kin"

“I am but weary and so weary, I hear the call of the sea birds and the tide turns as the snow falls upon the sea. So it has always been. And all you must carry on, ever onward, for that bright new day.” And as my kin stood about me it was tears of only partly sorrow that we wept.

His words became breath alone. His wounds were hidden now beneath the white furs and garland prepared by his daughters. All wept for the king save Alfhild, the queen. She held a hand to his lips until he was gone. I heaved the small craft from the rocks into the icy waters.

Alfhid saw me throwing the rocks into the water, she asked me to leave, I didn't know why, I left the place confused

I hadn't made it far before I stopped and turned on my heels. As I took resolute strides back toward where she remained at the water's edge, I steeled myself. I would not leave again until I had answers.

But as I approached, her image began to dim. With each step she grew fainter. I began to jog but the closer I got, the more she faded until finally, running, I saw her disappear. I stopped and immediately felt a hand on my shoulder. I turned and it was her.