A black dragon with wide, ragged wings flies through a break in heavy storm clouds, backed by a pale glow. Forked lightning flickers in the clouds on either side. Below, four Viking longships ride the dark, choppy water. The nearest has a carved dragon prow, a striped sail and a row of round shields along its side.

A small castle stands on a rocky headland at the right. The scene is painted in thick, textured oil strokes in charcoal, slate and ash grey. The only warmth is the sail and the glowing patch of sky around the dragon.