Viking dragon-prowed longships row along the Thames through dawn mist. Oars row in unison, ripples spread across the water, and dark sails billow. Armed Viking warriors watch an Anglo-Saxon village ahead. The camera slowly tracks beside the leading ship.

"Photorealistic historical cinema, ninth-century England. Dark Viking metal atmosphere, cold blue-gray dawn, thick river mist, weathered timber ships, wool cloaks, chainmail, round shields. Natural movement, realistic faces, detailed water, dramatic cinematic lighting. No horned helmets, modern buildings, text, or cartoon effects."