Chapter 40: Return of the Serpent

The longships rode the waves with the weight of their victory. Crates of silver and barrels of grain filled the hulls, the spoils of their successful raid. The scent of salt and smoke lingered in the air as the sea breeze carried them homeward.

Dikun Silver stood at the helm, his brothers by his side. Deen's spirit remained high, his youthful pride evident in the grin he wore. Sarich, ever watchful, scanned the horizon for signs of pursuit. Marcus, though pleased with their success, was already calculating their next move.

"The sea has been kind to us," Sarich remarked. "But we cannot grow complacent. There are always eyes that watch."

Dikun nodded. "Let them watch. The Silver Serpent has returned, and our people will know that our strength endures."

---

A Hero's Welcome

The settlement's watchtower stood tall against the morning light. As the longships approached, horns echoed from the cliffs, announcing their return. The people gathered along the shoreline, their cheers rising with the crashing waves.

Deen leapt from the ship as soon as it grounded, his excitement uncontained. "We return as victors! The Silver Serpent cannot be denied!"

The villagers roared in celebration. Children ran along the docks, marveling at the sight of the warriors and their trophies. Dikun's father stood among the crowd, his proud gaze meeting his son's.

"You have done well," the elder Silver said, clasping Dikun's shoulder. "The strength of our people grows, and you stand at the heart of it."

But even as the celebration rang on, Dikun's thoughts remained steady. He knew that victory brought not only glory, but also the eyes of rivals. Other Jarls would hear of the raid's success. Some would come to congratulate him. Others would seek their own gain.

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Division of the Spoils

Inside the great hall, the chests of silver gleamed beneath the torchlight. Warriors and clansmen gathered as Dikun stood before them.

"These spoils are not mine alone," Dikun declared, his voice steady. "They belong to all who stand beneath the banner of the Silver Serpent. Every sword raised and every shield held has earned its share."

The spoils were divided with fairness, ensuring the warriors were rewarded and the settlement's stores replenished. Grain was set aside for the coming winter, and trade goods were prepared for barter with neighboring clans.

Deen approached Dikun, his voice eager. "And when shall we sail again, brother? The sea still calls."

Marcus smirked. "A warrior's heart is never still. But we must rebuild our strength. The next raid will come, and we will be ready."

Dikun placed a hand on Deen's shoulder. "Patience, little brother. There is much to do, and our people need us. In time, the sea will call once more."

---

The Gathering Storm

Though the settlement thrived, the shadows of ambition stirred beyond the horizon. Messengers from distant clans arrived bearing words of curiosity and caution. Some came in admiration, while others spoke of the growing whispers of envious Jarls.

Dikun knew the time of celebration would be brief. The world had taken notice of the Silver Serpent's rise, and soon, the storm would follow.

But as the fires burned brightly within the great hall and laughter echoed through the night, Dikun Silver stood resolute. The strength of his people, his brothers, and his home would stand against whatever came next.

The Silver Serpent had returned.

To Be Continued...