Roots of Darkness

Hekla "Rib Smasher" and the remaining Bloodaxe Crew arrive in the village of Istré undermanned and missing three of their own, sent to battle an evil, poisonous mist threatening the villagers. Istré's stubborn chieftain keeps obstructing her efforts at every turn. After a passionate night with a mysterious red-cloaked warrior, Hekla discovers he's Eyvind Hakonsson, the Bloodaxe Crew's new temporary leader — and now she has to guard her heart while their plans collide with her mission to protect Istré's innocent people.