The Bridegroom and the She-bear
A restless group of children demands a story from a captive Viking. He spoke of a wild youth, a fierce she-bear, savage love, bitter loss, and nature’s cruelty.
Thralls
In a peaceful village, Hiroshi hides his sister as bandits attack. Samurai demand tribute, but Vikings soon arrive, only to enslave the villagers in brutal rule.
Oath of Vengeance
Brynhildr’s birth caused her mother’s death, leading to her father’s deep love and Hansel’s growing resentment. In Japan, Hansel betrays them, killing their father. Brynhildr vows revenge.
Ægir and Shōjō Hoist a Few
Guest writer Paul Di Filippo tells a tale of Ægir, Norse sea god, and Shōjō, Japanese sake spirit, squaring off in a drinking contest, matching the humans in Midgard drink for drink. Who’s gonna win this booze-soaked showdown?
The Waves
Guest writer and Viking sage, Josh Heath, spins a yarn of heartbreak and soul-searching: an old-timer grappling with his roots amidst crashing waves from Japan’s shores to a Norwegian fjord.
That Which They Fear Most
Rødrick, the blind shaman, forces Hansel and Hideo to confront their deepest fears. Family secrets are revealed.
Sellsword
Lord Tsukamoto is confounded about how the hell to take down Toshirô Nakadai, who’s gone and buddied up with those Viking bastards. In walks Snorfingr, like a damn force of nature, offering his services as a bravo.
Honor
Two warriors, two deaths. One finds redemption, while the other is honored.
A Man Who Knows
Rødrick, the blind shaman, cryptically reveals how he lost his sight to his samurai captor.
Cold Embrace
Viking and samurai, locked in a deadly combat, staring each other down, ready to spill blood ‛til one of ‛em hits the dirt!
