A medium closeup captures a Viking king rising from thick, glossy black mud. He wears a masterfully crafted golden helmet adorned with a set of imposing raven wings. His battle armor is embellished with menacing skull motifs, exuding a dark, fearsome presence. His face is marked with bold, sharp war paint and an intense glare that enhances his angry expression. A tangled, rough-hewn blonde beard frames his face, accentuated by a deep, rugged scar. Clutched in his hand is a massive, intricately detailed Viking axe. The scene is illuminated with dramatic cinematic lighting, casting shadows that dance amidst the swirling, ethereal volumetric light. The thick mud drips from him, adding an ominous and gritty atmosphere.