Winter has arrived, and what better way to embark on this exploration than by delving into the lore of the northern goddess of winter? It seems fitting to begin with her.
Who is Skadi?
Skadi, a deity linked with bowhunting, skiing, winter, and mountainous terrains, hails from the Jotnar lineage. The Aesir and Jotnar have long been embroiled in conflict, and in this enduring feud, Skadi suffered a deep loss—the death of her father. Seeking retribution, she ventured to Asgard with the intent to slay Odin for her father’s demise. However, rather than engaging in a fierce battle, Odin offered her various forms of wealth, as well as the chance to choose a husband from among the Aesir. The catch was that her selection had to be made by viewing only their feet, concealed behind a curtain. This unusual selection process led her to marry Njord, the god of the sea, whom she misjudged due to the beauty of his feet. She mistakenly thought they belonged to Baldr, the most aesthetically pleasing god, rather than recognizing the battle-worn feet of Tyr or Thor, who bore the marks of numerous battles.
Upon marrying, Skadi and Njord quickly discovered their mismatched preferences—Skadi thrived in the frosty mountains, enamored by the cold wind, the sounds of wolves, and the thrill of hunting. In contrast, Njord cherished the ocean, appreciating the lapping of waves and the vibrant life at the shore, including the laughter of sailors nearby and the songs drifting from his halls. To navigate their differences, they agreed to split their time between their respective domains. Skadi would spend part of the week with Njord in his coastal abode, while he would then reside with her in the wintry mountains. Yet, this arrangement proved challenging; Skadi found the seaside intolerable, with the salty air stinging her skin and the calls of seagulls grating on her nerves. Seafood dominated their meals, a culinary choice she detested, and the sun left her feeling melancholic. Conversely, Njord found the frigid mountains unwelcoming, plagued by the howling wolves, snowy landscapes, and the lack of melodic birdsong. The continuous meat-based meals were equally unappealing. Their varied environments hindered them from fostering a loving relationship, eventually leading them to part ways due to their mutual dissatisfaction.
Working with Skadi
Skadi has a particular fondness for animal furs, especially those of a white hue, fitting for her cold mountainous habitat where such coverings are crucial for warmth. Enjoying chilled beverages and wine, she values politeness and courtesy, gravitating toward individuals who display strength and respect. Although she holds a preference for collaborating with female spirit-workers, she remains open to engaging with anyone willing to venture into snowy realms with her. Skadi is most likely to manifest during winter or in consistently cold regions where snow prevails.
