A medium closeup of a fierce Viking leader rising from the slick, glistening black mud, wearing an imposing golden helmet adorned with intricately carved wings on each side. His battle-worn armor is embellished with skull motifs, exuding a formidable presence. Dark, striking war paint accentuates his intense, piercing eyes, while a scruffy blonde beard frames his scarred, rugged face. His expression is one of seething anger and unyielding determination. Clutched tightly in his hand is a massive Viking axe. The scene is enveloped in cinematic lighting with volumetric effects, capturing the moody atmosphere as droplets of mud slide down his armor.