It was not long before Andvari had more to gaze upon than the vast winter lake and the tundra that girdled it. A woman's voice catches the man's attention. Earthen gaze turns to find the strong form of a woman wading forth without fear of the freezing water. The warrior does not miss the flinch that even the most seasons of northerners could resist when bitten by cold water.

It occurred to the man that she believed he needed help. How brave! Andvari adjusted his grip on the fish, easing down its body so the tail was slotted between his teeth. It would be far easier to talk in this way.

Good day, water woman! The ashen man scooted over to offer some space on the boulder for the woman to climb upon. I'm in no need of rescue, but do tell me: What shores I have found myself upon? I believe a god has played tricks upon me. There was no use lamenting about his situation. Perhaps he slipped between realms, although he would never be certain.