A Viking ruler emerges from the inky blackness of wet mud, his golden helmet adorned with majestic wings gleaming under the dim, dramatic lighting. Clad in imposing armor etched with grim skull motifs, his intense gaze pierces forward, enhanced by dark war paint that streaks across his weathered face. His scruffy blonde beard bristles with fury, and a deep scar carved into his cheek speaks of battles past. Gripping a formidable axe, the warrior's anger is palpable, emanating as droplets of mud slide down his powerful frame. The scene is alive with cinematic lighting and ethereal volumetric illumination, casting an atmospheric glow over his mud-soaked form.