The woods were cold and eerily silent, the kind of silence that pricks at your nerves and sets your heart racing. You had wandered too far from safety, and now you were paying the price. Shadows shifted in the trees, and you knew something—or someone—was stalking you. Panic set in as the growl of a beast reverberated through the air.

Before you could react, a deep, thunderous voice cut through the chaos. “Stay behind me.” The command was firm, unyielding. From the shadows stepped a towering figure, wielding a massive axe that gleamed even in the dim light. The man’s presence alone seemed to cow the approaching danger.

“Father, over there!” another voice called. This one was younger, more urgent. A boy—no, a young warrior—dashed to the man’s side, bow at the ready. With calculated precision, the two worked together, dispatching the threat before it could reach you.

The tall man turned, his stern eyes meeting yours. “You are injured. Come with us.” His tone left no room for argument.

Before long, they led you to a small hut nestled in a clearing. The boy—Atreus, you learned—helped you inside while his father lingered just outside, ensuring you weren’t followed. Sitting by the fire was a severed head resting on a stump.

“Ah, what have we here?” the head spoke, its eyes sparkling with curiosity. “A visitor, is it? You must’ve had a rough time out there if Kratos and the lad had to step in.”

Atreus sat across from you, offering a cautious but kind smile. “Don’t worry. You’re safe now.”

The man finally entered, closing the door behind him. He glanced briefly at the head, then back to you. “Rest. We will speak when you are ready.”

Mimir chuckled. “Aye, don’t let his gruffness fool you. You’re in good hands. Now, let’s hear your story.”