#Finan x aelswith x sihtric

[ladyinred2248]

Praise Them (Finan x Aelswith x Sihtric) Part 1

Summary: The Lady Aelswith spends time with Finan and Sihtric. Part 1 of 2. (A continuation/ same era of my Beltane fics)

Warnings: Mature. MINORS DNI.

Lady Aelswith dreaded the moments that the Lord Uhtred was near. Not only did he not appreciate the King nor her own authority, he strutted around like he was God’s own gift to women and to Wessex alike. He was a heathen for God’s sake! Her husband unrightfully trusted the man with his fyrds, his resources, his men — Dear God, there would be no end to the madness.

Every night Aelswith sat at the altar, praying for guidance and strength — not only for herself, but for her husband, who could do no wrong in her eyes. Well, perhaps Alfred wasn’t perfect; maybe she resented the Lord Uhtred for additional reasons. For she knew that Alfred held certain secret affections for him. Though the act had not been done, she knew that Uhtred’s spell would be cast upon Alfred eventually, in a sexual manner, the heathen that he was. Even though she had given Alfred permission to indulge in his own desires, she would often cringe at the thought. Regardless, the idea of sexual liberation actually sent a deep warmth cascading through her body that she had been desperately trying to suppress. The thought of Alfred and the Lord Uhtred sharing intimacy was one that sparked a sense of longing on her own accord for something more. Perhaps she had been too uptight, the many obligations of her royal title weighing her down.

Aelswith received word by her many spies in the region that the heathens had recently participated in solstice rituals — sex rituals, at Uhtred’s Coccham estate. Of course they would, she thought, the heathens they were. But according to the Queen’s spies, good Christian men — Finan the Agile, no less — indulged themselves during these rituals as well. That thought alone piqued her curiosity. Her mind drifted to the women on the receiving end, and suddenly she bit her lip as a rather rebellious thought came to her mind.

The next morning, Lord Uhtred and his men inevitably came barraging through her hall as they usually did, strutting towards her with their hands on their swords and furrowed brows. Alfred suddenly held a shadow of a smile on his face when he locked eyes with the Danish Lord. Lord Uhtred and the King had been on good terms as of late and they seemed almost beaming toward one another this day, having not seen each other in some time. Aelswith let her mind wander as she had the night prior, looking to Uhtred’s men in a new light. Rituals? Hm.

She couldn’t stop herself from gazing at Finan’s bare arms as he stood before her. Porcelain skin mulled over with scars, large biceps flexed even in a relaxed position. Aelswith rubbed her lips together in an effort to close her gaping mouth, trying to steer away her gaze but not quickly enough it seemed. The Irishman’s eyes met hers, and with a soft gaze Finan gave her a nod and a smile, his dark eyes piercing straight through her body. She felt her thighs quiver as he held her eye contact excruciatingly long, until Aelswith simply smiled and looked down. Was he… gazing at me? Oh dear heavens.

Suddenly, Alfred’s voice brought her out of the trance.

“My dear, the Lord Uhtred and I have a private matter to discuss. The one that we talked about. Do you approve of this?”

Aelswith was suddenly startled by his voice, looking to Uhtred, then back to Alfred. “Yes, my Lord. Lord Uhtred’s men can be put to work in the meantime.”

“What?” Finan gasped, Sihtric hitting his arm to shush him.

Finan and Sihtric shared a curious glance at each other laced with contempt. Sihtric rolled his eyes. Of course they would be stuck fulfilling the Queen’s orders.

Aelswith knew what the King was implying. But somehow, she didn’t care anymore. Not after accepting his affection for the Danish Lord, nor after gazing at the handsome Irishman and opening her mind to the naughtiest of occasions. Even the young Dane next to him looked enticing, dangerously so. Tattoos evident on his olive skin, his strong hand wrapped around the seax on his belt. His mesmerizing eyes and strong build was enough to have any woman turn her head. She was almost entirely sure he knew what to do with those strong hands.

With a small nod to the others, Alfred led Uhtred down the corridor, and Aelswith was left seated at her throne with Uhtred’s men standing before her, tall and powerful as ever. She knew that they didn’t feel quite relaxed around her, the impressions she had made previously keeping them on their toes.

“Uh, Finan,” Aelswith spoke up, withholding her authority, “You and your… friend, will escort me to the gardens.”

“I am Sihtric, Lady.” Sihtric gave her a smirk, his eyebrows raised.

“Yes, that’s right… uh, Sihtric. Forgive me.”

Finan smirked as he came closer and held out his arm to her, and with shaking breaths and a flush to her cheeks, Aelswith took his large arm with her delicate hand. They were then headed towards the gardens.

Finan and Sihtric tried to lighten the queen’s mood by telling subtle jokes, not too forward of course for fear of offending her. Eventually a servant girl brought them all some wine, and Aelswith’s demeanor seemed to lighten up a bit as the men sat on either side of her and entertained her with their stories. Finan felt that her laugh was simply adorable.

“I simply cannot believe that you two are still alive,” Aelswith chuckled, placing her hand on Sihtric’s shoulder without a second thought in her inebriated haze. “I am… grateful, for your service to the King.”

“You are most welcome,” Sihtric whispered, “and the King is grateful to have you as his wife, yes?”

“Well, anyone would be, I suppose.”

The boys raised their eyebrows in shock at her bold response, and Sihtric couldn’t help the laugh that exploded from him.

“Yes, lady.” Sihtric said, smiling at her. “They would.”

Finan was feeling bold in his own right now, Aelswith’s fierce energy enabling his own.

“Lady,” Finan rasped, “Ya might have a wilder side than I once thought, eh? Tell me — do you ever let your hair down?” He stroked her braid quite firmly with his fingers, causing a shudder to run down her body before she slapped his hand away with a chuckle. His large hand then traced down her back, coming down to caress the spot just above her buttocks. The wine was giving Finan a certain boisterous courage as it usually did, and witnessing Aelswith’s fair features up close combined with her fiery nature was rushing blood straight to his cock.

“May I?” Sihtric whispered before unclasping her braids one by one, not waiting for her to respond before undoing them softly with his fingers, his face close enough for his breath to fan her cheeks.

Just this simple touch of the young Dane was enough to light Aelswith ablaze, feeling the wetness rush to her core as it began to throb. The wine made her head fuzzy, but it was the attentions of the men that made her body suddenly run hot, the liquid courage in her veins making her lock eyes with Sihtric as he looked at her like a man starving. She leaned her body back then, spreading her legs slightly as she felt Finan’s calloused hand run under her dress and up her thigh to fondle her bare skin. On her other side, Sihtric brought his lips to her neck softly before sucking and biting at the tender skin, his tongue grazing her jawline as she tilted her head with a moan.

Finan’s hand was slowly coming higher up her thigh, stroking firmly as he brought his lips to her ear. “Such a pretty little thing. Why don’t ya let us worship ya, my Queen … I promise you a world of pleasure.”

Aelswith whimpered in response, Sihtric’s fingers now entangling slowly in the laces of her dress at her bosom as Finan’s fingers came to her core, rubbing her sensitive bud slowly.

“Y-yes, I…” she whimpered as Finan’s fingers started to stroke through her wet core now, not yet penetrating, as she rocked her hips instinctively into them as she sought him to enter her.

Sihtric’s hand came into the bosom of her dress, grabbing her breast tenderly and rolling her nipple in between his fingers before rasping his lips against her ear, whispering softly yet demanding. “Show us your quarters, Lady. Take us there.”

Regardless of Aelswith’s better judgment, she took the two men to her private chamber, giggling the whole way while in between Finan and Sihtric, her arms entangled with each of theirs. The men walked in and immediately made themselves at home; Finan sprawled out on a fancy sofa while Sihtric looked at all of Aelswith’s belongings, picking them up and setting them down with care.

Aelswith just gazed at them for a moment, running her fingers through the laces of her dress as her heart was thundering in her ears. Sihtric came to her then, bringing his hand to cup her cheek.

“Lady,” the young Dane said, “You want us to please you, yes? If not, you can tell us... I swear it.”

Aelswith bit her lip, looking intently into Sihtric’s mismatched eyes as he smiled at her before looking over to Finan, who looked very relaxed and sprawled out on her sofa. Finan caught her eye and gave Aelswith a sensual wink.

She turned back to Sihtric, giving him her best bedroom eyes. “I would like the two of you to stay.”

Sihtric hummed, stepping closer to her before licking his lips. “It would be our pleasure.”

Sihtric brought his fingers to the already loose laces of Aelswith’s dress, untwining them before slowly brushing the dress off of her shoulders. It fell to the ground swiftly, and before she knew it, she was thrust into Sihtric’s body with a pull of his arm around her waist, and his lips met hers in a desperate act of his desire.

“Hey,” Finan groaned with a hint of jealousy, “Lady, I’ve been waitin’ for ya. Have ya forgotten?”

Aelswith pulled away from Sihtric’s kiss, catching her breath as the Irishman stalked behind her and wrapped his hands around her hips. “Never,” she whispered.

The next moments were filled with intensity as Sihtric took the opportunity to rid himself of his armor while Finan’s hands traveled up to caress the Queen’s breasts. She effortlessly relaxed into him for a moment as he caressed her, but her patience was running thin as her desperation hit its peak. She turned to Finan, unbuckling his cuirass, shoving away any bit of armor she could as quickly as possible. He let out a deep chuckle, biting his lip when her hands came to the laces of his trousers. Within moments the Irishman was as bare as she was, and the skin to skin feeling as he pulled her into his body was sending pulses of fire through her veins. He picked her up then, her legs wrapped around Finan’s waist as he led her to the nearby bed, setting her on top of it gently and holding his body over her as he captured her in a devouring kiss.

Sihtric stalked towards them, enjoying the sight of Aelswith’s fair and flushed skin as the Irishman dominated her. He sat next to them, taking his hand to cup her cheek before running his thumb over her bottom lip as Finan started to kiss his way down her body.

“My Lady,” Sihtric said, “You are such a good girl for us. Are you ready?”

Aelswith bit her lip, looking back to Finan’s dark gaze.

“Answer him,” Finan demanded.

“Yes! Yes.. I—I’m ready.”

“Oh,” Sihtric cooed. “I’m not so sure.” He winked at Finan, who gave him a smirk.

Aelswith bit her lip. “I am!” She said with a hint of frustration.

“What was that, your Grace?” Sihtric replied as he took his tongue to the hardened peak of her breast. “I can’t hear you.”

“I need you, n-need you both!”

Finan chuckled then, coming up again to give Aelswith a deep kiss, his dark eyes burning into hers.

Finan moved his body away suddenly and Aelswith whimpered at the loss. Within seconds she felt the Irishman’s breath rasp across her core just before feeling his hot, wet tongue on her center. She moaned at the tense, sensitive feeling of pleasure as Sihtric captured her lips with his, caressing her breast with his strong hand.

Before she knew it, the Irishman’s tantalizing ministrations had quickened her breath and brought a deep warm flush across her chest. Sihtric cradled her upper body as he sat behind her, caressing her porcelain skin with his fingertips and peppering kisses on her neck every so often. The queen could no longer hold in her moans of pleasure when she felt Finan plunge two fingers into her core, curling them so delicately and expertly against her front wall. The sensation made her squirm in Sihtric’s arms, so the young Dane took it upon himself to tighten his grip on her, chuckling as he rasped his lips against her ear.

“Such a good girl. Are you going to cum for us?”

Aelswith whimpered, biting her lip as her body was pulsing with pleasure. Her toes curled, so close to reaching her peak as a deep brogue spoke to her from below.

“Answer him,” Finan was looking up at her with his dark bedroom eyes, but after a moment his gaze softened, and he gave the queen a wink.

“Yes, I…”

Finan let out a pleasured groan. “I can’t wait to fuck you.”

Aelswith smiled at the Irishman before leaning back into Sihtric, pleasantly drifting back into the throes of pleasure as Finan expertly quickened the pace of his fingers, listening to every pleasured moan intently and gauging the queen's reactions until she was squirming in their arms again, moaning relentlessly.

“Let it go for me,” Finan rasped, “Yes, that’s a good girl.”

Sihtric held his bruising grip onto Aelswith as she hit her peak, her fingernails digging into Sihtric’s skin and provoking the utmost attention of the men as she experienced a soul shattering climax.

Taglist: @gemini-mama @persephones-journey @whitedarkmoonflower @alexagirlie @justanother-sihtricgirlie @bcon24 @ficnation

[ulfrsmal]

🎶and every time we kiss I swear I could fly🎶

For @aelflaeds' 100 Followers Challenge, congratulations! Special thanks to @lauwrite1225 for the screen of Finan & Ingrith

I saw Cascada in the Feel Good Vibes section and immediately got an idea ⫽ song link for the road

[whitedarkmoonflower]

Masterlist

The Last Kingdom - Sihtric

Top 5 most read:

Indelicate proposal - SMUT 18+ an unexpected proposal leads to more unexpected actions as you discover the surprisingly soft core of the young warrior seeking your attention

Little Seer SMUT 18+ (Sihtric x reader x Finan) – as if being Skade's sister wasn't challenge enough, reader is faced with an impossible choice between two warriors, competing over her heart

Saved Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 SMUT 18+ – Reader is Uhtred’s sister and a skilled healer. She travels with her brother’s men and after the unsuccessful attempt on Uhtred’s life gets curious about the young prisoner, the sole Dane from the group of assailants that is left alive

Feeling you Part 1 SMUT, 18+, Part 2, Part 3 SMUT, 18+ – You thought you had left your days as an alehouse whore behind you until a handsome, young Dane crossed your path.

Traitor SMUT 18+ – you thought you had been prepared for everything as you were sent to spy on Uhtred, until the moment you met a certain Danish warrior

Sihtric x female!reader (canon)

Lost – Fic request: After Rumcowa is attacked Sihtric searches for his family not knowing what has happened to them.

Prisoner Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4 SMUT 18+ – Sihtric and Finan are sent to spy on Bebbanburg, but Sihtric gets distracted by an attractive widow and lands up caught and secured by the guards with no chances of escape.

Kidnapped Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 – Fic request: Sihtric's wife is being taken by Hestan and she gives birth to twins while she is with them. Then Hestan sees Uthred and threatens that he has Sihtrics family, but of course, Sihtric gets his family back.

Princess Part 1 SMUT 18+ – Fic request: could you write something about Sihtric rescuing a princess (Alfred's daughter) and they both falling in love for each other despite the princess is about to marry somebody else.

Good wife Part 2 SMUT 18+ – Five years later Princess returns to Winchester just to discover Sihtric hasn't kept his promise.

Freedom SMUT 18+ – Reader is a childhood friend of Sihtric, whom he liberates from the slavery after the fall of Dunholm. The life has not been easy on her since Sihtric left. It's a heavy and dark fic, mentioning mental illness, violence and attempted suicide.

Braiding hair – Fic request: Can I request a sihtric x reader fic where she doesn’t know how to braid, so sihtric teaches her. and when she’s good enough he lets her braid his hair for battle saying it would bring him luck

Grief – Fic request: can i ask for husband! Sihtric comforting his wife!reader after losing her best friend. and she obviously suffers from grief. she just wants to be held and told it’s okay to grieve and there’s no shame in hiding it

Sickness Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 – Fic request: Season four Sihtric, when the group are passing through the fields during that plague and the river. Reader is the lover of Sihtric and is sick. (..) The reader and Sihtric have what they think are their last moments before she is kidnapped along with Stiorra, Aelswith and Aethelstan...

The Witch Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 – Fic request: I was hoping you could write a one shot of Sihtric x Fem reader. Where the fem is like a healer very similar to Iseult in season 1. But this time reader is patching up our boy Sihtric. The reader is extremally worried for Sihtric.

Bebbanburg – Fic request: (..) Sihtric ffc that takes place when they are trying to get Bebbanburg back and they take him and Finan and chain them. While they are chained, Sihtric notices a girl also being chained in a corner and after the battle he rescues her

You are good SMUT, 18+ – You don't trust Sihtric, but when you start seeing him the way he really is, you just want to be a part of his world

The promise – for his own good you wrung a promise from Sihtric that left your both hearts bleeding - lot of angst and very little comfort

Caged bird SMUT 18+ – It had been only a week since the handsome Dane, strength and danger emanating from his every pore, had evaded your secluded life, turning it upside down in the blink of an eye. 

Yield to me SMUT 18+ – Fic request: you and Sihtric are sent to Bloodhair's camp to spy, and apparently there is more to discover than the secret plans of the Danes

Dream - Fic request inspired by the The Apparition by Sleep Token – Sihtric plagued by dreams of a woman from his past - angst, longing, some lowkey SMUT 18+ nothing explicit, use of she/her pronouns, happy ending 😉

Destiny is all - SMUT 18+ reading a book turns into a breathtaking adventure

Forever mine - SMUT 18+ A young Dane awakens something long buried in you, but the truth threatens to shatter your stolen moments. Can love survive built on lies?

Sihtric x female!reader (modern)

Reunited Part 1, Part 2 (ongoing) – Fic request: I'd like to request a modern!Sihtric x reader where they are reunited after a long time apart. // It was supposed to be a short two week trip that turned into five long years apart, just because your best friend couldn't keep her mouth shut.

Strangers on the train SMUT 18+ – Fic request: I can imagine Sihtric and reader meeting by chance on a train. It could get fluffy and even hot and smutty.

Library romance – Fic request: May I request a modern Sihtric fic (nothing serious just some fluff) where Sihtric and reader are best friends and madly in love with each other, but afraid of confessing their feelings.

Date Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 – Fic request: I would like to request a full on fluffy modern!Sihtric fic, where he's desperately in love with reader and he takes her on their first date, and does everything he can to impress her

Until the death us parts (Assassin!Sihtric x Templar!reader) SMUT 18+ – Spying on Sihtric is one thing, but when the reader receives the order to eliminate the target, things get complicated.

Two broken pieces (sub!Sihtric x dom!reader) SMUT 18+ – plot? never heard of it, pure smut with some minor good old pole-dancer/whore meeting a successful businessman background story

Sihtric x OC

Captive (Sihtric x OC) Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4 – Sihtric is sent to Heasten’s camp to spy and discovers the Danes have a captive – young Saxon girl he just can’t leave to her fate. My very first fan fic, please bear with me 😅

The Curse (Sihtric x Skade) SMUT 18+, angst – as Uhtred's path crosses with the mighty seer Skade, there is only one way to break the pattern of violence and only one man capable of doing it as the power of love appears stronger than the power of hate

The Wheel of Time - Masema

Masema x female!reader

Supper SMUT 18+ – Serving supper to a prophet. There is no plot, just pure SMUT 18+

Power SMUT 18+ – all your life you've been on the run, hiding the power within you, until you meet a warrior brave enough to claim you despite the trouble you are bringing

[agreyraincloudd]

Could you do a Sihtric x reader with the promo “don’t act like you don’t know I’m in love with you” ??? ❤️❤️❤️

Sihtric x Reader

Prompt 22. "Don't act like you don't know I'm in love with you"

Words 1.6k

Season 5 spoilers

Thank you to @mrsaugustwalker who also requested this I hope you like ittt

Lots of you requested this with Osferth too but I felt it just fit Sihtric more and I have loads lined up for our baby monk dw

Finan and Uhtred imagines are on their way too you thirsty people

It was Aelfwyn and Cynlaef’s wedding day and your face ached with the pain of smiling so much. You were close friends with the late Aethelflaed and had sworn on her deathbed to protect and guide her child as if she were blood, a task you were willing to die for. Following the battle of Bebbanburg and the safe retrieval of your Queen’s daughter, you returned to Mercia before a Dane messenger sent word of your Godchild’s nuptials. A horrid storm in the midlands had kept you on the road longer than anticipated causing you to miss the vows but as you rode into Bebbanburg, the night creeping in, you realized the festivities had only just begun. 

The city glowed bright with the amber of bonfires and lanterns, tables lined the courtyard piling out from the ale house and the streets were filled with people dancing in arms while others raised their tankards to the happy couple laughing besides who you recognized as Lady Aelswith and her son King Edward. You swallowed, your throat grew tight as you were reminded of your lost friend, how happy she would be at the sight of her family together, her daughter happy. 

“Are you going to stay up there all day?” You looked down from your horse at the voice. Sihtric stood tall, his fingers clasped around your horse's bridle as he pulled you to a stop. Seeing him now made a flood of emotions drown you in seconds. You knew him well having fought beside him many a time. You could recall every moment you spent standing watch with him while Aethelflaed and Uhtred reunited and you could almost recount the various drunken nights Finan had shoved you into him at a table or in an Ale House, but how those evenings ended were left a blur in your memory. 

“I’m trying to consider whether you’re all real standing before me-” You pulled your leg overs your horse and slid down. Both of you knew you could easily manage such a task by yourself, but it didn’t stop Sihtric bringing his hands to your hips, helping place you on the groun as you slid down. Your eyes met his, your expression untelling. “I feel as if we should all be ghosts by now”

He laughed and as if realizing his hands remained on your side, he took a step away and tucked them behind his back. 

“You know we’re all too hard to kill”

“Oh I know” Your face was growing warm as he kept that stupid smirk on his face.  

“Y/N” A drunken voice bellowed from the otherside of the courtyard. 

Finan.

Both you and Sihtric turned as you took a step past him. 

“Trust me, I’ve tried to kill you all many a time now” 

Finan strode over to you, the ale you presumed he drank offering a more loose and smiley warrior as he met you half way with a hug. 

“You’re late. A certain someone hasn’t stopped asking for you all day” He pulled back and attempted a wink.

“Aelfwynn? I tried to send word I’d be late” 

Finan laughed as he looked behind you, smothering his smile with his ale cup. 

“Yeah-sure”

You went to question who he was on about when Sihtric shoved his way between the two of you. 

“Come, I’ll get you a drink. You’re already several behind”

“I can see that”

Sihtric led you through the crowd and with a few stops in between to reunite with friends and congratulate your Godchild, you finally made it to a barrel. The cold liquid rushed down your throat and it felt as if the ale had breathed a relief of life back into you as you looked over the crowd. 

“It’s nice isn’t it?” 

“It is Uhtred” 

The Lord engulfed you in a strong hug that squeezed you into a laughed. You had grown close with him over the years and a strange bond had formed from your protectiveness of Aethelflaed and the loss of both your friend and his lover, only your joint memories left standing. 

“You look well” He smiled as he held you back to fully take you in. 

“I am. But of course the last time you saw me I was caked in blood attempting to help retrieve your homeland”

“And for it I am eternally grateful”

You both smiled as you looked upon a dance circle formed around the biggest fire. 

Aethelstan had his arm looped with Aelfwynn as they circled each other through laughter. Their grandmother stood beaming at them from the edge of the crowd. Finan and Cynlaef’s were doing a similar sort of movement but it resembled more of a strange stumble of drunken old men as they danced. And then your stomach dropped. Sihtric became clear in the firelight, a woman you didn’t realize with her hand in his as she tried to teach him the steps. 

“You should dance with him” Uhtred took a gulp of his ale as you both watched, your arms crossed. 

“He is already dancing”

Uhtred chuckled “So go and take him. He is yours, is he not?” 

You choked on your drink, attempting to cover with a laugh.

“He is not. What makes you think that he was?”

“You are in love with him and he is you”

“Don’t be ridiculous. I’m not-”

“I can see it with your eyes. The first moment you saw him all those years ago in Wessex, your heart burns for him”

You tried to act nonchalant “My heart does not burn-”

“You can lie to me Y/N but I can see it. The way you search for each other during battle, how he stays close to your side whenever he can, how you look at each other. You both breathe for one and other Y/N. It is about time you saw that”

You shook your head.

Uhtred sighed loudly, smiling in disbelief. 

“Why is it Saxon women always give such retaliation to the confession of men? My friend is in love with you, you know that. He has told you many a time-”

“You are both fierce warriors but it seems your bravery falls short when it comes to words Y/N”

Those drunken nights at the ale house. 

You scoffed. Questioning your bravery? You’ll show him. 

You chugged the rest of your drink, slamming the cup down on the barrel behind you. 

Uhtred smirked. You took the bait so easily. 

The ale led you through the rows of people as you joined the clearing around the bonfire. You made your way over to Sihtric but changed in the last step, linking your arm with another man as you spun. 

“Lovely to see you again Pyrlig” 

The monk laughed at the sight of you. 

“Y/N my God’s child. I’m glad to see you have safely returned to us once more” He laughed as you both changed directions and spun away. 

“Good to see you too Father”

Pyrligs smiled as he looked over your shoulder.

“I’m afraid for my safety you must change partners”

Your brows furrowed as you turned to where he looked over your shoulder. 

“What-”

Sihtric appeared once more behind you. He stopped short before linking his hand with yours, pulling you against his chest. 

“I didn’t know you could dance?” You laughed but his face remained void of tells as he looked at you. 

“I don’t but-” God’s the way his hand slid down your back, pulling you closer. “I will dance if it means no one else will get a chance with you besides me”

“You so suddenly want to dance with me?”

He notched his head to the side trying to hide a smirk. 

“ Don’t act like you don't know I'm in love with you”

You froze. 

“Sihtric”

He pulled his hands out of yours, snatching the ale of some bystander, downing the liquid. 

“Why do you never answer me back when I say such things?” He questioned, his eyes saying far more than his forced smile did. 

“Every time you have confessed you have been drunk. How am I to believe your word?”

He pulled you out of the way of the moving dancers. 

“Because you make my mind fog. Every time I look at you it’s as if the words melt away in my mouth. I do not know fear of battle or blood” You moved further through the crowd until you both stood under an archway separating two buildings. -”But every time I have tried to tell you how I feel, I get swallowed by this this breathlessness. But it turns out drunken me forgets all about that when he sees the way you look at him”

You tried not to smile, taking a step toward him.

“And how do I look at you?”

“Like you love me too”

You responded with your lips on his. The kiss was desperate and breathless. His hands fell down your sides and held you tight as he walked back against the wall. Your fingers curled into his hair as you moved. 

“They're kissing” A cheer sounded. You broke the kiss to see Finan with his arm around Uhtred as the two of them raised their cups, the rest of your friends joining in with laughs as they looked upon you and Sihtric. 

The man before you buried his head in the side of your neck in embarrassment before trying to shoo off the others. It was only when Hild appeared, ushering her boys away, did they all disperse leaving you in the arms of the man you loved. 

“Have you really loved me since Wessex?” You looked up at him. 

He went to deny the accusation when he realised it was a lost cause and smiled, red blushing his cheeks. 

“Since the very first moment you pointed your blade at me when we met”

“And everytime after?”

His lips met the skin of your throat, moving down. “I love you more and more” 

[idksmtms]

Finan Masterlist

Series

Under construction...

Oneshots

No, No, and... Maybe - (Finan x Uhtred's Daughter!reader - coming soon)

Finan was completely devoted to his Lord Uhtred, which meant a complete devotion to his Lord's family. Sure, he hadn't seen you since you were a babe, but he didn't expect anything to change when he arrived to defend Aelfwynn and the monastery. He didn't expect to find an absolutely beautiful, absolutely perfect woman... An absolutely off-limits woman...

Novice in Love - (Finan x Novice!reader - coming soon)

Once the Lady Aelswith began to care for Aethelstan, a young novice was appointed to look after him. When Sihtric and Finan arrive to the monastery, they find all the children taken care of by this young woman. She journeys with them to reunite Aelfwynn and Aethelflaed, and through all this, manages to fall in love with the charming Irishman.

AUs

Coming soon..

[itbmojojoejo]

A Good Man | Epilogue

Pairing: Finan x Ealdorman's Daughter!Reader

Summary: Finan and y/n navigate the early stages of married life and the move to Rumcofa and the eventual relocation to Bebbanburg.

Wordcount: 3.8k | Part 1 | Other Works

Warnings: Major character deaths mentioned, mentions of pregnancy and barely mentioned childbirth, brief mentions of violence. If I have missed anything, please let me know!

Authors Note: This really is the farewell. Did someone say Family man Finan? No? Well you've got it anyway. Also Second Summer = July & Blood Month = November.

The end of summer was ushered in with cooler breezes and cloudier skies, you found yourself pacing the hall of Aeglesburgh palace every day awaiting news of both Lady Aethelflaed who planned to take Eoferwic, and your new husband who should have returned to take you to Coccham shortly after escorting the Lady Aelswith to Bedwyn.

The news of the siege at Winchester left a near constant fear in the pit of your stomach, you had begged King Edward to let you ride with the army but he had refused and placed you back in the care of your brother until all was finished.

You had managed to commit every stone of the floor and each woodgrain of wall panels within the hall to memory in those thirty seven days of waiting, the very moment a rider had come to tell of news that Lady Aethelflaed was riding from Winchester you stood on the steps, watching intently for any sign that Finan was with her.

He never dismounted a horse so quick in all his days seeing you run down the steps and through the first of the army that entered the gates, you knocked the air from him wrapping your arms around his neck and burying your face into his warm skin. Finan’s grip around your waist threatened to crush you in his eagerness to have you close again, in his own days spent waiting to return for you as he had promised was all he could think of.

Finan peppered light kisses along your shoulder, up your neck and across your cheek.

“You are a sight for sore eyes.” He chimed, pulling away to look at you.

“No more surprise distances, please.” You pleaded quietly, nudging his nose with your own.

“I swear, I’m taking you with me this time.” Finan promised, gently brushing his top lip along yours.

“Good.” You breathed, trapping him in a kiss.

You had hoped to settle into married life inside the walls of Coccham with ease but now that the war with Sigtryggr’s army had come to an end you had been summoned to Gleawecestre. Lord Ealford wished to hear from you himself, it seemed that although your brother, now Ealdorman Aelfhelm, had tried his best to squash the rumours of your involvement of Lord Eadred’s death new whispers of his sons cruelness had reached him. Lord Ealford assumed that it was you spreading this word.

Finan watched you twisting a tankard by its rim, deep in thought and staring at the letter of summons.

“We could just not go?” He light heartedly suggested, leaning on the back of your chair.

“They would only assume my guilt further.”

“I say you tell him what kind of a son he had and that you had to kill him.” Sihtric shrugged, having to adhere to politics bothered him in these situations.

“That’s a terrible plan.” Osferth shook his head.

“Actually, it’s not. Well, the confessing part is..” You believed Sihtric made a good point.

“We can’t just turn up to the mans hall and say ‘your son was a real turd and got himself killed’.” Finan scoffed; his hands coming to rest against your shoulders.

“Yes, Finan, we can.. My father mentioned bastard children and women in nunnery’s.”

“There’s also the missing women from Winchester.” Finan had not told you of this at the time because you never asked to know what had been discovered from Sihtric and Osferth following Eadred to the brothel, it mustn’t of been good otherwise Finan would not have offered to kill the lord after he had threatened you inside Winchester palace.

“Missing because they were hidden away or because they are dead?” You sighed, already knowing the answer in your heart.

“Dead most likely.” Sihtric answered honestly.

“Do you think with the offer of silver we could take some witnesses with us?” With the unexpected death of your father an inheritance was given to you, as well as a bride price being gifted by the Lady Aethelflaed, you would be able to pay the survivors to join you in Gleawecestre without it leaving you empty handed.

“For what purpose?” Osferth asked, looking between you and Finan.

“To cause doubt, if we prove that Eadred had more than a few victims then surely that would mean there was plenty of brothers, fathers even lovers that may have wanted revenge.” You had attended enough trials in Mercia to know that more witnesses gave a person a better chance of being proven innocent.

“That might work, but I don’t think the Lord Ealford will be happy about it.” Finan gave your shoulders a light squeeze.

“Hardly a concern of ours, he could know all about his sons doings and just be covering it up for his own sake.”

You had been right, with the offer of silver and arranging safe meetings between the mothers that had been separated from their children you had managed to collect more than enough witnesses to join you and speak of the suffering they endured at the hands of Eadred overwhelming Lord Ealford. He still had his suspicions of course but there was plenty of doubt raised about who actually ended his sons life and without anyone coming forward to confess, or being able to locate every possible suspect it was agreed that there were to be no more questions surrounding his sons death.

“You just got away with murder.” Your husband whispered against the shell of your ear, just before helping you mount your horse.

“Careful, it could be you next.” You quietly jested, settling into your saddle for the journey back to Coccham.

The time spent in Coccham was short as you were relocated to Rumcofa and you had wondered if this was what life was to be for you now, moving south to head back north then returning to the south before heading even further north again. Finan had reassured you that Rumcofa was likely the last relocation unless Uhtred was to finally take back Bebbanburg but you had hoped that no attempt would be made anytime soon after learning the true extent of what had happened on their last visit to Uhtred’s birth right.

By the time you saw blood month arrive you and Finan had settled into your home and somewhat of a routine, you had become friends with Sihtric’s wife, Sig, and the two of you juggled taking care of your own smaller homes, making sure the children were keeping out of trouble and learning their letters, and helping with the preparing of food in Uhtred’s hall for shared meals most evenings.

The men had taken to asking for your thoughts on certain situations with the locals and larger political news coming from Aeglesburgh as you had proven yourself more than useful and trustworthy in those areas time and time again over the years.

One night you had been unable to sleep with waves of nausea washing over you and a light sheen clung to your brow, you didn’t want to wake Finan because you had seen how he reacted to people showing signs of illness. This wasn’t the first time it occurred in recent weeks but you were worried of telling your husband.

Removing the light covers you stood from the bed quietly and tried to make it to the front door for air in your thin nightdress but quickly scrambled for the night bucket. Your hands trembled clinging onto the wood and groaned at the sight of bile. Finan was up in an instant throwing back the covers and came to your side blinking the sleep away. He carefully guided you to sit on a bench beside the unlit hearth.

“Is it a sickness?” Finan began fussing over you, brushing your hair away from your face then hesitated.

“I don’t believe it’s one that you can be burdened with.” You closed your eyes, exhaling slowly hoping to ease the nausea. He frowned, concern turning into confusion at your words.

“Are you suggesting what I think you are?” Not many talks had been had about starting a family but the odd ones that had happened consisted of you stressing about the dangers of childbirth and Finan worrying about being a present father, he was a warrior, he couldn’t always be there to protect you.

“Mhm, I have not bled.”

“Oh god..” His face went pale, amusing you.

“Would you like to share the bucket?” You both laughed, internally panicking.

Over the next few weeks your suspicion's grew, you still had not bled; you were exhausted throughout most of the day, your moods ever changing, you could no longer stomach the sight or smell of the animals being butchered and prepared for meals, and every night without fail you were hunched over a bucket cursing any god that would listen for afflicting you with such ailments.

A local healer, as well as Sig and other women of the town had confirmed what you already believed to be true, you were with child. Finan was apprehensive for many reasons, the difficulty of childbirth aside; if you were to have a son, he hoped him to be healthy and able to wield a sword, much to your horror which made Finan realise that would be a battle you two would have one day. If you were to have a daughter she would still be considered noble, meaning lower noble suitors would be requesting betrothal from a young age which both of you wholly disliked and so agreed she would be trained with a sword.

“I think you will have a boy.” Sig had placed a gentle hand to your growing stomach with a smile on her face.

“A son of Finan? May the gods have mercy on us all..” Sihtric jested.

“I fear a daughter would be more terrifying than a son.” You laughed and Finan only groaned, he’d decided it didn’t matter as long as they were healthy.

As your stomach began to swell even more and the worst symptom’s eased off Finan became more relaxed, even finding amusement in how you sometimes struggled to get out of a low chair before offering you his hands helping you stand. Of a night he would rest beside you, watching with amazement and disbelief at the way your skin would move as your unborn child wiggled and turned.

“We should probably figure out a name” He looked up at you from his place lower down on the bed, your hand raking through his hair.

“I’m assuming Finan for a son?”

“What? No. Tiarnán?” He suggested, obviously preferring an Irish name over a Saxon one.

“I like it, I will let you choose his name, but if we are to have a daughter she will be Fiora.” You stated strongly, an irish trader had spoken of his granddaughter with the same name and explained it’s meaning: little flower. Finan was surprised at the choice but knew from your facial expression your mind was made up.

The labour came on suddenly in the middle of the night towards the end of second summer and Finan had done his best to soothe and encourage you as the local healers over saw the birth, he smoothed away the strands of hair that clung to the sweat on your brow and held your hand pressing his lips to your knuckles throughout the ordeal, his silver ring you still wore glinting in the candle light. By the time the sun rose and birdsong filled the early morning sky your son had arrived with a full head of dark hair and his tiny features scrunched up.

Finan had struggled to leave when the group was to hunt down a group of rogue raiders coming over the border and harassing small settlements. Tiarnán hadn’t even seen his first winter yet and was still so small, coddled up in blankets protecting him from the autumn chill, held close against your chest.

“You must go,” You quietly urged, pressing a kiss to his cheek.

“I won’t be gone long.” He promised, gently kissing the top of his sons head.

“I know.” You smoothed his frown away with your thumb and lightly pushed him backwards urging him to walk towards the boat.

You celebrated your sons first year of life during the second summer and by the time blood month came back around familiar symptoms creeped up on you again. You had sought the advice of a healer who agreed, you were in the early stages of childbearing.

On your return home you found Finan sat outside the house in front of a fire pit, Tiarnán was bouncing on his knee babbling away.

“You are forbidden from touching me during these festivities.” You declared, lifting the young boy from his spot and balancing him on your hip.

“Forbidden? What have I done?” He questioned, furrowing his brows.

“We are to have another child, Finan.” You chimed, fighting against Tiarnán’s strong grip on the silver cross hanging from your neck.

“Another..” He looked to your young son and back to you, “You aren’t cruel enough to forbid me.” Finan shook his head with a small smile.

“Oh I am, you are not to touch me during blood month.”

“But if the damage is already done then surely you can’t refuse me just yet.” He stood, fixing you with a mischievous grin and placed a sickly sweet kiss to your cheek.

Excitement buzzed through the town at Uhtred and his men returning from a visit to Aeglesburgh, Tiarnán, who was about to have his seventh birthday, pushed his way through the people walking towards the dock to greet their lord, the auburn tint to his dark hair glowing under the sun just as his fathers does and ran excitedly, hurling himself into his Finan’s arms.

“Steady on wee man!” He held him up and away looking over the growth spurt his son had in his short time away.

“Where’s your mother?” Finan asked throwing the boy over his shoulder and walking through the crowd.

“I don’t know.” Tiarnán giggled, fiddling with the pouch tied to the back of Finan’s belt trying to see if there was any coin to pinch.

“Ay! You little tike.” He put the boy down and ruffled his hair before kicking him lightly in the rear.

Walking through the front door of the house he found his young daughter, Fiora, stood on the kitchen table wearing an ill fitting pair of breeches surrounded by cut fabric and loose needles, you were stood with a measuring tape trying to figure out how to take in your sons old clothing to fit her.

“What are my ladies doing?” Finan asked, pressing a kiss to your temple and lightly squeezing Fiora’s hand, pulling a face at the four year old, her big brown eyes sparkling at him.

“She refuses to wear dresses, and I refuse to argue with a smaller you,” He laughed and pulled you to face him, “I’m sorry I wasn’t there, we weren’t expecting you back for a few more days.” You sighed, leaning into his hand on your cheek.

He hummed rubbing his thumb over your lip before meeting it with his own in a soft kiss, Fiora faked gagged making you and Finan laughed against each other before pulling away.

“You cheeky mare.” He began tickling the young girl and you sighed knowing it was going to be a hectic day, but you were happy to have your husband home.

Your days in the town were now spent watching your younger daughter chase and terrorise her older brother and Sihtric’s sons if they refused to let her play swords with them. You had tried getting her more interested in the usual things that girls her age should be doing but she resisted heavily, in the end Finan had a wooden play set full of fake axes and swords made for her so she no longer had to ask the older boys permission to join in now that she had her own.

As time carried on passing your son Tiarnán was found to be more suited to the complicated skill of archery and using an axe, whereas Fiora was already showing herself to be deadly with any type of edged weapon much to your horror and Finan’s amusement. You expressed concern at them training at such a young age but Finan had told you this was the best time to start, sooner rather than later, and so you begrudgingly agreed to let it continue.

After the deaths of Lady Aethelflaed, Queen Aelflaed, Osferth and Sigtryggr, you saw a change in Finan. The death of Osferth had hit him hard and the grief lingered long after you settled inside the walls of Bebbanburg. He’d wake up some nights bolting upright and looking frantic, only relaxing once you pulled him back into your chest and stroked his hair.

The peace that the both of you had wanted existed in Bebbanburg and over time Finan’s grief dispersed, the sea air had a way of cleansing the soul that you were thankful for. Uhtred’s youngest son Osbert had become friends with Tiarnán and Fiora, your son was comfortable with life at the fortress but you recognised the unrest in your daughters eyes to be similar to that of Uhtred’s daughter Stiorra and worried that she would leave to find her own path eventually.

You had struggled to keep your family safe during the time of unrest that was brought about with the death of King Edward. Tiarnán had been taken with Osbert and Edmund to Thelwael after Uhtred’s banishment, you didn’t trust Ingilmundr being inside the walls of Bebbanburg so fled in the night with Fiora hiding away at an abbey after Finan had left with Sihtric to find Uhtred at Winchester.

Finan had panicked on their return to Bebbanburg because he couldn’t find you or his daughter and thought the worst, neither of you had been inside the cave that survivors had been trapped inside which only stressed him further. He paced the yard inside the fortress all night, unable to rest with his mind racing as no one was able to tell him where you had gone.

“Finan!” Sihtric shouted out, looking across the field from the ramparts with the early morning sun just peaking over the waters edge trying to light up the grey sky. Two horses approached from the tree line and from the hair and clothing they assumed it to be women.

The sight of you and Fiora looking up at them as you got closer had Finan rushing down to the gates, shouting demands that they be opened. You didn’t grumble at him roughly pulling you down from your horse and crushing you against him. No words were spoken as he held you and folded Fiora into the embrace, relief washing over him that a part of his family was safe and back with him for now.

As you had both had a lack of sleep the night before you had tidied up a bedroom as best as you could, lighting a hearth for warmth and dusted off strewn furs to make resting as comfortable as possible. Finan tucked you into his chest, smoothing your hair and breathing in your familiar lavender scent as you listened to the steady beat of his heart.

“I thought I was going to find you in that cave..” He spoke out quietly.

“We left for the abbey the same day you went to find Uhtred, but Finan, what happens now? We don’t know if Tiarnán is safe, what if he’s d-” You looked up at him, eyes full of worry.

“Don’t say it. We’re going to Thelwael and I will bring him home, I swear.” He delicately brushed his thumb along your cheekbone, the gold in his eyes shimmering with the flames of the hearth.

The next morning you watched on as the men readied their horses with Eadgifu and to your shock Fiora walked her horse into the yard all packed up and ready to join them.

“Where do you think you’re going?” Your eyes widened, spotting her sword and seax strapped to her body over armour.

“I’m going with father.” She declared, checking over her saddle.

“Absolutely not.” You refused, shooting a sharp look at Sihtric who snickered at the discussion.

“Have no fear, mother. I was made for this.” Fiora soothed, she stood taller than you now and you sighed running your fingers over the length of her braided dark hair. She was a young woman who wanted to make her own decisions, a stark reminder of how stubborn you had been at her age.

“I’ll keep her safe.” Finan pressed a kiss to your temple.

You had never cried at seeing your husband leave for battle, but this time as you watched him mount his horse beside your daughter your vision blurred as tears brimmed your water line. Shakily you took off your silver cross and tucked it into Finan’s hand as you had all those years ago.

“You bring that back.” With a squeeze of your hand and a nod he left with your daughter following.

Not many days had passed before you got word that Aethelstan would be facing Anlaf at Brunanburh after Ingilmundr had savagely attacked all saxons at Thelwael and any worry you had soared to the sky in that moment. You had no idea if your family was even still alive and you stood on the ramparts looking at the waves under the red hues of a sunset praying that if they had survived Thelwael they would survive following Aethelstan into battle.

You knew Uhtred would fight for the young man he had raised in Rumcofa, and where Uhtred went Finan followed, and your children followed their father where they could. You just hoped Finan had the sense to keep them out and away from a shield wall.

With a heavy chill in the air your breath hitched seeing an approaching army but you easily spotted your husband and children and all worry washed away, only to be replaced with grief shortly after. The death of Uhtred had been a shock to all, days after his passing you stood back on the ramparts looking out towards the sea tucked under Finan’s arm.

“This belongs to you.” Finan took off your silver cross and gently put it over your head, patting it in place on your chest.

Snaking your arms around his neck you buried your face in his skin, melting into him as he gripped you tighter.

“If you could go back, would you still climb out of that window?” He pulled back, resting his head against yours.

“For you? Always.”

You had to remind yourself regularly that you weren’t that young woman anymore, you had raised two strong willed children who were now fully grown and ready to lead their own lives, you had lost and grieved for friends and family members, but throughout it all you had a loyal and devoted husband at your side. Finan had always been, and continued to be your good man.

End Notes: I know lots of people have different interpretations of how 'Seven Kings Must Die' ended, but to me, Uhtred did pass over to Valhalla.

Taglist: @arcielee @tssf-imagines @bcon24 @finanmoghra . (I tagged those that were on the original one for this, if you didn't want to be here I'm sorry.)

[anoncat6]

PETRICHOR | sihtric x oc | part thirteen

part one

13. ambush in the forest

They had waited by the house all night, watching the fire burn itself out with defeated looks on their faces.

Beocca was broken; he had not eaten, drank, or said a word in hours. Hild had tried to comfort him when dawn broke, whilst Finan had encouraged him to drink something.

“This fire did not just happen. It did not.” Beocca had a wild look in his eyes.

Shaking out from under Sihtric’s cloak, Ghylena took a shaky breath, her lungs still feeling the strain of last night’s smoke. 

“Tidman,” She croaked, “It was Tidman.”

Lena began coughing, and Sihtric fluttered around her in worry, stroking her back as he gave her some more water.

Finan looked on in a mess of confusion and concern, “‘Tidman’? What happened?”

“He was harassing her again, wasn’t her?” Beocca looked self-destructive.

“He upset her in the palace, so I offered to walk her home. I thought we’d be safe,” Ghylena faltered in her guilt, “He followed us. Threw food and stones. I- I tried to stop him, closed the door after her, but he cornered me.”

Ghylena looked to Sihtric for strength, finding only an ocean of chaos in his eyes.

“He had a knife, and I’d left my weapons at the palace. I should have brought them with me, but I wasn’t thinking. I didn’t think we’d need them. I was stupid. I remember him pinning me down, and I couldn’t move, couldn’t fight him off—“

Sihtric went stiff, “He didn’t—“

“No, no!” Her eyes widened as she realised what it sounded like, recognising Finan’s worried look as his jaw tensed, “No, he didn’t… I swear. He knocked me out, and then I woke up and the house was already… I’m sorry, Father, I’m so, so sorry. I’m sorry.”

<>

Uhtred had been imprisoned during the funeral, his pardon from Alfred revoked by Aelswith’s order. Only when stood in the courtyard, about to be exiled from Wessex once more, did Uhtred make his speech in plain view of the rich and poor of Winchester. The entire city.

His speech worked, his pardon reimposed by Edward Rex, and then they were travelling yet again, journeying for Bedanford to face the armies of Cnut, Haesten and Brida.

They had made camp that night in Wicumb, taking note of Aethelwold’s absence.

Edward, Uhtred and his inner circle, (including his 2 favourite priests), were gathered around their fire, eating a stew Osferth had made.

“This is good food, Osferth,” Ghylena had praised him with a smile, “You make a better cook than me.”

Sihtric snorted, “That is not an impressive feat.”

“Seeing as I hunt the food, husband, I think it only fair that someone else prepares it.” Ghylena nudged her knee with his.

“Sihtric is not much better at that than you, Lena,” Finan chipped in.

“Perhaps we should get some help then…” Ghylena pondered.

“Perhaps we should just hire Finan as our maid.” Sihtric joked.

“I’d rather suck my own toes after this battle than live with the two of you. I’d never get any sleep.”

Uhtred laughed, Osferth went red, and Pyrlig chided Finan as Ghylena choked on her stew.

<>

The morning before battle, Uhtred had taken Edward to scout the forest— their chosen field of battle— whilst Lena’s boys were sent to kill any potential spies on the roads.

Ghylena had taken her opportunity of peace and gone to the waterside, just beyond eyesight of the men of camp but within shouting distance, just in case.

She was stood knee-deep in the lapping water, her clothes damp and floating at her feet. She held her hands in front of her, palms down to the water, eyes closed.

Opening her other senses to the world around her, Lena cleared her mind. This was her fleeting chance to be Lady Ghylena, the wife and sister, the woman who grieves and mourns, and she had little time left before she would have to be Lena the Warrior once again. Taking out her knife, Ghylena pricked the tip of her finger, just enough to draw slow, thick blood.

The shining crimson dripped down into the river.

One drop. 

“Gisela,” she breathed, “My beautiful, powerful sister. Valhalla is not worthy of you.”

Another drop.

“My baby— my perfect, undying son.”

A final drop.

“Thyra, my friend, may you find peace. I’m sorry I could not save you,” Lena sniffed, her voice thick, “Forgive me.”

Opening her eyes slowly, Ghylena admired the beauty of her surroundings, finding comfort in the soulful song of birds. River mist clung to the water, the opposite banks flanked with verdant woodland that stuck straight into the rich blue sky. Raising the knife still clutched in her hand, she struck a small braid of hair from its end, clasping it in hand before throwing it into the water.

“Protect me, and let me protect those that I love.”

<>

The battle came quickly.

Ghlyena was crouched beside her boys— Sihtric, Finan, Uhtred and Osferth. In the hours before, she had re-braided her hair tightly, applying war paint across her eyes and sharpened her weapons which hung from her torso.

They went through their usual rituals; Finan and Sihtric clashing weapons, Osferth praying, Uhtred staring so hard he might shit himself, and Sihtric pressing his lips to Lena’s forehead. 

Ghylena moved to the archers, joining the bowmen as they prepared to initiate the attack. Haesten and Cnut’s men soon came riding through the woods, horses clattering on the old road, Ghylena sending word down her line— it was time.

Knocking her first arrow, Lena made sure to see that the others had followed suit before letting her death fly. Her curse flew true, finding its mark and killing the unremarkable Dane instantly. Chaos and panic erupted as their prey realised they had been ambushed. Roars and yells of scared men poured from over the ditch as Ghylena called for a second volley of arrows. 

Then Uhtred’s men charged, and soon soldiers collided like waves against a cliffside.

The line of Danes were being shredded by arrows, with some of them lifting their shields to protect themselves. Ghylena sent arrow after arrow into the pile of flesh and fur, each landing fatal blows.

When her quiver eventually ran empty, as was unavoidable, Ghylena strung her bow over her torso, unsheathing her sword in a fluid motion as she stood.

With a clamorous outcry, Ghylena led the second charge of men into the fray. 

Running full speed into the fighting, Lena didn’t have time to focus on anything but killing her enemies and staying alive. Unlike most of the men around her, Ghylena didn’t have a shield, instead swinging with her axe and sword— her now-typical fighting style thanks to Sihtric’s teachings.

Dodging away from a blood-soaked axe that was swung at her neck, Ghylena turned to face her newest opponent. He was huge, as big as her friend Clapa had been, with arms like an oak tree and a deadly double-edged axe in his hands.

Seeing her size him up, he steadied his footing and lunged for her again, forcing her further backwards with each arching swipe of his axe. This leering dance continued for 5 or so paces, with Ghylena nearly stumbling over a root before she saw it. Her chance.

Lena stepped to the side, clashing her axe into his with a yell and twisting it from his grip before bringing her sword up to his thigh and cleaving his leg down to the bone. He fell to his knees, letting out a resounding scream before she sunk her sword into his shoulder, digging down into his heart. 

Panting with exertion, Lena tightened her grip before withdrawing her weapons, her eyes reassessing the battlefield like a hawk. Her gaze was mad, the black dust framing her wild eyes with fury.

“Where are the Mercians?!” Sihtric’s voice rang out, and Ghylena’s neck twisted in its direction.

She saw him them, fighting furiously and as gracefully as ever. Finan was close by.

“Sihtric!” She called out to him, but he didn’t hear. Her throat was sore, the crisp air burning with every forceful inhale, “Sihtric!”

Carving a path to him wasn’t easy, but Ghylena wasn’t to be stopped. Moving through the bloodied mass of brawling like a leaf flowing down a river, Ghylena dodged and parried, periodically diving away from the swing of an axe or the swipe of a sword.

Eventually, a little worse for her, she caught his attention.

“Lena!” His eyes lit up, clearly happy to see her.

Seeing the Dane behind her husband, Lena’s face grew fierce as she yelled for him to duck, hurling her axe over his back with one arm, and straight into the skull of his attacker.

Now with just her sword, Ghylena drew close to Sihtric and drew her dagger, pressing her side into his taller frame.

“Gods, I love you.” He said, a manic grin on his face.

Huffing a laugh as she parried a blow, Ghylena threw him a hectic grin as she swore, “Not now, my love! Men to kill, battles to win—“

“Husbands to kiss?” Sihtric pushed his luck, slitting someone’s throat with the tip of his axe as he gazed at his wife from the corner of his eye.

Lena shoved into him laughing, “Not now, Sihtric!”

“Uhtred! The line is breaking!” Finan was fighting fiercely, but they were all about to be overwhelmed if they didn’t do something.

“Push back!” Came the reply, “Where is Sigebriht?” 

Now stood with her boys, once again fighting against the odds and being painted with blood and gore, Lena heard horns of the approaching cavalry. 

“Lord! Horses!” Sihtric called, “Horses!”

Uhtred rejoiced, “It is Aethelflaed! It is Mercia!”

The arrival of Mercia turned the tides drastically in their favour, the whip-fast horses ploughing through the men and the riders using deadly force with their weapons. Aethelflaed was leading the charge, and Ghylena momentarily looked in awe at the inspiring woman. She was power unto herself, and clearly good with a sword, a woman worthy of being a Queen.

The subsequent arrival of Lord Sigebriht and his men solidified the result of the battle, ensuring victory for Uhtred and his men. 

Many died that day, though none who Ghylena loved and none who she need mourn for.

The following week was spent healing minor wounds and resting tired bones. Osferth cooked more stew for them, and Finan cracked his usual jokes, telling stories of battles past and battles that never happened. Sihtric finally got his hard fought kiss, and more.

Ghylena wore Gisela’s earrings with pride, scrubbed her body of blood and allowed her tattoos pride of place on her neck, framing the braid Sihtric had knotted in her newly cleaned hair. 

She had lost much, and gained much. But she was still here, and she still had family.

Uhtred, the brother given to her by Gisela…

Finan, the Irishman who could always make her laugh…

The baby monk, Osferth, a new and welcome addition to their group…

Sihtric. The man she loved, the man who loved her. Her husband. Her heart.

-> END OF SEASON 3

Tags: @travelingmypassion

[alexagirlie]

The Last Kingdom Art Masterlist

My drawings set within the The Last Kingdom universe or with TLK characters

Back to Masterlist

Sihtric

Pirate AU Sihtric

Season 4 Sihtric

Choke Sihtric giftart

Finan

Season 4 Finan

Shadowhunters AU Finan

Finan x OC Gift/Prize Art

Season 4 Lord Aldhelm

Season 4 Father Pyrlig

Season 4 Queen Aelswith

SKMD Aethelstan

King Constantine

Queen Aeflaed

Season 2 Clapa

Season 5 Cynlaef

Coming Soon

Season 4 Uhtred

Season 4 Osferth

Season 4 Sigtrygrr

Season 3 Aethelwold

Season 4 Edward

DJ AU Sihtric

MMA AU Sihtric/Tattoo Sihtric

Sihtric/Finan snuggles

Danish King Sihtric

Some NSFW images XD

[tlkgods]

HIJOS

Dioses

edward ( alfred x Aelswith)

luna ( Uhtred x Sihtric)

astrid ( Uhtred x Alfred)

henrik ( Uhtred x Alfred)

vibeke ( Harald x Leif)

aiden ( Sihtric x Finan)

klaus ( Sihtric x Finan)

Eadgifu ( Uhtred x Leofric)

Erik ( Leofric x Skade )

aethelred (freydis x harald)

Semi Dioses

aethelstan - ( Alfred x ? )

aethelflaed - ( Alfred x ? )

cilantro ( Sihtric x ? )

uhtred - ( Uhtred x Gisela )

stiorra - ( Uhtred x Gisela )

oswald - ( Uhtred x Gisela )

jacob - ( Ragnar x ??? )

ronaldo - ( Finan x Eadith )

sigtryggr - ( Finan x Eadith )

Ingilmundr (Loki x ?)

wolland ( Sihtric x ? )

aelflaed (loki x ? )

aethelwold ( skade x ? )

aldhelm ( leofric x ? )

Eadgyth ( Alfred x ? )

astyrian ( Finan x Eadith )

aelfweard ( Loki x ? )

Edmund ( Skade x ? )

aelfwynn ( Frigg x ?)

Osferth (Frigg x ?)

Freya (Freya x ? )

[tlkfanficfest]

TLK FANFIC FEST - BINGO

This summer the TLK FanFicFest is going back in time to those halcyon days of livejournal kinkmemes and bingo cards! That’s right folks, it’s horny-on-main summer in Wessex!

Rules:

- Bingo cards can be completed by writing five prompts vertically, horizontally or diagonally using any characters from The Last Kingdom.

- The center square is free and can be used for any fill/prompt you think of.

- You can switch out a prompt from another table but it must be from the same square (e.g. you can use wing fic, hurt/comfort or threesome in that square).

- All prompt fills should be tagged on tumblr/AO3 with #tlkfanficfestbingo, and the appropriate bingo card: #shieldcard #swordcard #axecard

- One fic per prompt. You can use more than one but it will only count as one square.

- Fills posted to AO3 can be added to the TLKFanFicFest Bingo Collection (here)

- TLKFFF Bingo will continue until Sept 6th/Labour Day.

[morosemagick]

Built From Broken Things | Chapter Eleven

After an unexpectedly difficult trip, Sigrid and company arrive at Saltwic estate

Start from the beginning here

TAGGED:

@solinarimoon ​ @thebohemianpenguin @emilyhufflepufftlk @magravenwrites ​ @unicornlovedust ​ @lalahmaria ​ @lauwrite1225 ​ @kissmyaxe140 @axe-does-writing @webreathfandoms @93xdiagonxalley @shadow-of-wonder @geekandbooknerd @for-bebbanburg @trenko-heart

[ladyinred2248]

Hello! I write for TLK, mainly Finan 💗 This blog is 18+ ONLY. I would prefer if you have your name/age on your profile, if not, I may have to block you. Requests are open ❤️

Note: This blog is a safe space for everyone, from all walks of life. Please feel free to communicate and most importantly… please be kind. Or else.

The Last Kingdom Fics:

The Scottish Princess, Finan x Reader (Brief Alfred x Reader): Smut/Fluff, Angst: Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 Part 6 Part 7 Part 8 Part 9 (Final Part). -Moodboard

King of the North (The next chapter of The Scottish Princess) Finan x Reader, Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 Part 6 Part 7 Part 8 Part 9 Part 10 Part 11 Part 12 Ongoing.

- Moodboard -Moodboard 2

Beltane series:

Beltane, TLK crew smut. Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4

Sequels:

Solstice Part 1 Finan x Gisela , Part 2 Uhtred x Sihtric x Gisela , Part 3 Osferth x Sihtric

Praise Them - Finan x Aelswith x Sihtric Part 1

WIP:

The Lovers - Finan x Gisela

Additional fics:

The Offering, Finan x Luna: OC, Fluff/Smut, Angst, Storyline aligned with episodes: Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 Part 6 Part 7 Part 8 Part 9 Part 10 Part 11 Series currently on hold.

All graphics done by the lovely @saradika-graphics 💕

[ariadnethedragon]

Eadith rescuing my darlings 💕

BONUS!

Baby monk comforting Sihtric when he was panicking/about to pass out🥺

[whitedarkmoonflower]

Sickness

Part 1, Part 2, Part 3

Anonymous asked:

Season four Sihtric, when the group are passing through the fields during that plague and the river. Reader is the lover of Sihtric and is sick. Her sickness gets worse after the run in with Eadith’s brother Eardwulf. Very angsty with the rise on emotions everyone is dealing with. Eadith tries keeping the reader alive with her medical abilities but it’s to no avail. The reader and Sihtric have what they think are their last moments before she is kidnapped along with Stiorra, Aelswith and Aethelstan. She gets better and reunites after the siege.

Pairing: Sihtric x reader (female)

Authors note: This is the request I took over from @sihtricfedaraaahvicius It is the first part, the next will follow hopefully soon.

Warnings: a bit of fluff and angst, quite a load of angst

Word Count: 4,6K

Tags: @sihtricfedaraaahvicius @hb8301 @zillahvathek @alexagirlie

If you want to be added to the tag list - write to me.

Uhtred's heart pounded in his chest as he spotted the soldiers on horseback emerging from the road bend. There was no time to waste.

"Run!" he shouted urgently, his voice leaving no room for questions. Finan and Osferth quickly grabbed Aethelstan by the hands, while Uhtred swiftly turned and scooped up Aelfwynn in his strong arms. Without further ado, they darted off the road into the tall grass of the meadow to their right. Eadith, Stiorra, and the young Uhtred, followed suit. You hesitated for a moment, bending over with your hands on your knees, desperately trying to catch your breath as your gaze locked with Sihtric.

"Come on, there's no time to waste," the urgency in his eyes turned into worry. "Are you okay? Can you run?" he asked, taking a step in your direction and extending his hand.

You had been relieved to escape the woods and feel a solid road beneath your feet again after the exhausting days you had endured. A nagging sense of discomfort had slowly settled into your body, initially dismissed as the expected toll of running through fields and woods on foot, and sleeping under the open sky with moss and fallen leaves as your only mattress and blanket. It had started as a subtle ache in your joints, as if they were encased in lead, protesting every movement and sending sharp, shooting pains through your body. Gradually, this discomfort had escalated into a more pronounced pain, and this morning, you had woken up tired and weak, your skin hot to the touch. 

But the last thing you wanted was to reveal your weakness and become a burden or an obstacle to others. You held responsibility for the children – Aelfwynn, Aethelstan, and Stiorra, though she pretended to be grown up already. You had been caring for them in Saltwick for over a year, and your bond had deepened in ways you never could have anticipated. You loved and cared for them as you were sure you would for your own children, should you ever have any.

Aelfwynn, with her bright eyes and insatiable curiosity, had a remarkable talent for bringing warmth even to the coldest of days. She was a quick learner, possessed a genuine thirst for knowledge about the world, and you found yourself marvelling at her growth. Her laughter was as sweet as a melody, and her hugs felt like a soothing balm for the soul.

Aethelstan, the thoughtful and introspective one, had a heart overflowing with kindness. His gentle spirit served as a constant reminder of the goodness that still existed in the world, even during the most challenging times. His trust in you warmed your heart.

Stiorra, the spirited and adventurous one, injected an element of excitement and unpredictability into your lives. Her infectious laughter and boundless energy were both exhilarating and, at times, exhausting. You embarked on countless adventures together, and with every scrape and bruise she earned, you felt it tug at your heart. 

You loved these children unconditionally, celebrating their victories and providing comfort during their moments of sadness. You worried about their futures and dreamt of the wonderful lives that lay ahead for them. Your heart had expanded to encompass these precious souls, and you couldn't fathom a day without their laughter, quirks, and love. So when Uhtred and his men insisted on fleeing, you didn't hesitate for a moment—you were determined to accompany them.

And then, of course, there was Sihtric, the handsome Dane with the most unique haircut you had ever seen in your entire life. You couldn't deny the initial unease you felt around him when he was assigned by Lord Uhtred to guard the children alongside Finan and Osferth in Saltwick.

His quiet demeanour and the way he observed you had initially sparked suspicion. Sihtric's deep and enigmatic eyes seemed to track your every move, their intensity sending a prickling sensation across your skin. It was as if he could see through you, discerning something you couldn't quite grasp, leaving you feeling vulnerable and exposed.

However, as the days passed, Sihtric's presence transformed from a cause for suspicion to a source of reassurance. His reserved nature concealed a kind heart and a readiness to lend a hand whenever necessary. He frequently offered assistance with the children, whether it was helping Aethelstan carve his wooden horse or taking Stiorra on playful adventures in the woods. Aelfwynn, in particular, had taken a liking to him, finding solace in his company. 

Your initial unease gradually faded as you witnessed Sihtric's interactions with the children, noting his patience and caring nature. Imperceptibly, you grew quite fond of the gentle and kind-hearted man hidden behind the rugged exterior of a fierce warrior.

You vividly recalled that evening, as if it had occurred just yesterday. The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm, orange glow over the tranquil garden where you had found your moment of peace and tranquillity. The children were fast asleep, their dreams filled with the day's adventures.

As you sat there, lost in your thoughts, you received a pleasant surprise when Sihtric quietly joined you, taking a seat beside you. His presence was a welcome one, and the two of you relished the serene beauty of the fading daylight.

For a while, you enjoyed each other's company in silence, with only the gentle rustle of leaves in the evening breeze breaking the stillness. Sihtric's gaze lingered on you, and you could feel his eyes on your face. It was an intense scrutiny that made your heart flutter, and you couldn't resist stealing a glance in his direction.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Sihtric broke the silence, his voice low and sincere. "You are truly remarkable," he began, his words carefully chosen. "The way you care for Aelfwynn, Aethelstan, and Stiorra, it's... inspiring."

Your cheeks flushed with a mixture of surprise and gratitude. "I appreciate your kind words, Sihtric," you replied, genuinely touched by his compliment. "But I'm just doing what comes naturally. They've become like family to me."

Sihtric nodded, his gaze still fixed on you. "It's more than that. You have a gift, a way of making them feel safe and loved. It's a rare quality, and I admire it greatly."

A sense of warmth enveloped you as you listened to his words. There was a vulnerability in his expression, as though he had revealed something deeply personal, and you appreciated his openness. As you gazed into Sihtric's eyes, you saw a sincerity and warmth that had been hidden beneath the surface.

The moonlight bathed the garden in a soft, silvery glow, casting enchanting shadows on the two of you as you sat side by side. Touched by Sihtric's words and captivated by the way the moonlight highlighted his handsome features, you found it difficult to tear your gaze away from him. He appeared so strong and reassuring in the tranquil evening light, and you couldn't help but feel a flush of desire as you imagined his strong arms around your waist and his full, sensual lips against yours.

As the thought danced through your mind, your heart quickened, and you couldn't help but let your hand fall gently onto Sihtric's, a subtle invitation that carried a world of unspoken desire. Your pulse raced as you leaned in closer and inhaled his breath, your faces just centimetres apart. You were so close that you could sense his muscles tensing and his breathing becoming more strained. The moment seemed so perfect and you closed your eyes, anticipation hanging in the air.

Sihtric shuddered, his body tensing under your touch. With a sudden, trembling voice, he stammered, "I... I should excuse myself. It's getting late, and I should check on the horses."

His sudden withdrawal and the tremor in his voice took you by surprise. Confusion and disappointment washed over you as Sihtric hastily retrieved his hand and stood up, his gaze avoiding yours.

In the space of a heartbeat, the enchanting moment was shattered, and you were left sitting alone in the garden, the echoes of what might have been hanging in the air. Sihtric's abrupt departure left you feeling both bewildered and disheartened, wondering what had caused him to recoil so suddenly.

The next day, an awkward tension between you and Sihtric hung in the air like an unspoken barrier. His once-warm presence had become elusive, and you couldn't shake the growing sense of embarrassment stemming from the events of the previous evening. You certainly didn't want to ruin the budding friendship that had developed between you, especially considering the deeper feelings you had begun to hold for Sihtric.

As the next day proved to be no better, you found no recourse but to approach Finan.

"Finan, may I speak with you about Sihtric?" you began hesitantly, unsure how to start the conversation.

"Lady, you have a question? Just go ahead and ask," Finan replied tersely.

"I'm not sure how to put it," you admitted. "It seems I've upset Sihtric, but I'm at a loss as to what I've done wrong. We had a pleasant conversation about the children last night, and then he abruptly left. Now he's avoiding me."

Finan set down his sword and turned to you, his eyes scrutinising your face with a stern expression that made you slightly uncomfortable. Your cheeks flushed, and you averted your gaze, beginning to regret initiating the conversation.

"So, he finally mustered the courage to speak to you," Finan remarked with a chuckle. "I don't believe you've done anything wrong. Lady, that lad has a heart of gold, and he's been smitten with you since the moment he laid eyes on you. But, let me put it this way - he struggles with recognizing his own worth. It's not for me to share his story. Perhaps he will, when the time is right." Finan continued to fix you with a penetrating gaze, and you began to feel increasingly uneasy. Thinking the conversation was over, you turned to leave.

"Lady," Finan called out quietly, the mischievous glint in his eyes replaced by a stern and earnest expression. "Please, don't give him false hope if you're uncertain or not serious. It would shatter him, and believe me, he doesn't deserve to have his heart broken again." 

You lifted your eyes to meet Finan's, and the genuine care and concern emanating from him filled you with profound appreciation for the bond that united these men.

"I promise I won't," you whispered.

As the sun began to set, casting long shadows over the estate, you decided it was time to address the issue directly and made your way to the stables, a place where you knew Sihtric often sought solace and solitude. There, you found him leaning against a wooden post, his gaze fixed on a distant point, his expression holding a mixture of contemplation and melancholy. Seeing him in this state tugged at your heart, as you approached cautiously.

"Sihtric," you began softly, "is there something I did or said that disappointed you? I can't help but feel like something has changed between us."

He turned to look at you, his eyes full of surprise. For a brief moment, silence hung in the air, as if he was struggling to find the right words. You took a deep breath, moved a step closer, and gently placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder.

"Sihtric," you said softly, your voice brimming with sincerity, "I genuinely like you, and I don't want any awkwardness between us."

The instant your hand made contact with his shoulder, Sihtric visibly flinched. His eyes widened in surprise, and it appeared as though he had momentarily forgotten how to breathe. His chest rose and fell in a rhythm that mirrored the quickening of his heart.

A medley of emotions flitted across Sihtric's face, but most of all a complete disbelief.

“You like me? No, lady, that can't be,” his response caught you off guard. You blinked in astonishment and then, almost instinctively, asked, "Why wouldn't I like you, Sihtric?"

He let out a self-deprecating chuckle. "I'm a Dane," he said, his voice tinged with bitterness. "A bastard. A man without a future, without a place in this world. Certainly not someone deserving of being liked, especially not by a lovely Saxon lady like yourself. I apologise if I overstepped the previous night," he continued sincerely. 

"It won't happen again," Sihtric added, turning as if he intended to leave.

Surprised by his words, you stood there, gazing at this grown man who appeared simultaneously strong and fearless yet vulnerable and lost, like a small child. At the last moment, you extended your hand, grasping his arm.

"Sihtric, please, wait. Why are you saying this? I don't care that you're a Dane. And, by the way, I'm not a lady. You are so much more than your heritage. You're gentle and caring with the children, always respectful and ready to help. You have a kind heart, and that's what truly matters. I like you. I like you a lot, and not just as a friend…" Your voice lowered, and you felt your cheeks flush crimson as you whispered the last words.

If anyone was overstepping, it was unquestionably you. However, in this moment, all you wished for was for this incredibly sweet man to see himself through your eyes—worthy of admiration and affection, regardless of his origins or the challenges he faced.

The weight of the conversation lingered in the air as Sihtric processed your words. There was a quiet pause between the two of you, with the gentle rustle of hay in the stables the only sound. Then, as if compelled by an unseen force, Sihtric's hand reached up to cup your chin, gently tilting your face upward until your eyes met his. In the dim light of the stable, his gaze held an intangible twinkle of delight as he tenderly caressed your face with his thumbs.

"You are so breathtakingly beautiful," he whispered. "And you're so kind and sweet…so loving and caring. You don't understand… there's nothing I can offer you in this life… you deserve something better."

You gazed into Sihtric's mismatched eyes, a tentative smile spreading across your lips as you took his hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze before pressing his palm against your cheek, nuzzling into it.

"Sihtric, please don't feel compelled to make a decision on my behalf," you said with a warm smile, and in a sudden rush of emotions you lifted yourself onto your tiptoes and gently pressed your lips against his.

A deep sigh escaped Sihtric as he felt your lips brushing against his own. He cradled your face in both of his palms, pulling you slightly back, his eyes wide open, scanning your features with a mixture of disbelief and bewilderment in them. Your heart quickened, threatening to burst from your chest. You feared you had made a fool of yourself, that he was about to reject you, and tears welled up in the corners of your eyes.

With a soft, lingering touch, Sihtric leaned in, his lips meeting yours in a gentle and tender kiss. It was a kiss filled with sweetness and delicacy, infused with awe and adoration. You had never been kissed like this before. The gentle, hesitant touch of Sihtric’s tongue, the way he held you in his arms, the soft moans of delight escaping his lips, his trembling fingers cupping your cheeks – every small detail, every motion of his body spoke of hope and unending love, promising something more—a connection you had never before experienced but were willing to embrace. It swept away your breath and set your heart racing with an unseen intensity.

This was just the beginning of what felt like a fairytale for you. Later that night, as you shared your bed with Sihtric, revelling in his passionate yet gentle and affectionate touch, as he worshipped your body, you silently pondered whether to thank God or the Devil for bringing this handsome and kind-hearted man into your life. Even if loving him meant being condemned to eternal flames, you were ready and willing to embrace it.

—-----------------------------------

Panic flickered in Sihtric's worried gaze as he noticed your distress and rapid breathing.

However, the approaching sound of hoofbeats spurred you into action. With a determined effort, you summoned all your strength and began to run. You grasped Sihtric's hand for support, and together, you followed the rest of the group into the meadow.

The rush of adrenaline coursing through your veins fueled your determination, urging you to push harder. You sprinted up the hill and down to the riverside, maintaining your pace alongside Sihtric, whose firm grip on your hand served as a silent source of strength and encouragement.

The cool breeze against your face and the rhythmic thud of your footsteps helped you push through the weakness and nausea that threatened to overwhelm you. You knew you had to keep moving, to remain with the group and ensure everyone's safety.

Upon reaching the riverside, it became evident that crossing it was not an option. The riders pursuing you drew nearer and all eyes turned to Uhtred, awaiting a command, a solution, or even a miracle if need be. However, there was no easy answer he could provide. Despite the seemingly insurmountable odds against the armed horsemen approaching, Uhtred, Finan, Sihtric, and even Osferth instinctively formed a protective barrier before the children, Eadith, and you, ready to defend you all against any impending threat.

The riders closed in, and suddenly the physical and emotional strain of the sudden sprint and the overwhelming events of the past moments took their toll on you. Your strength reached its limit, and with a gasp, you collapsed to the ground, your legs no longer able to support you.

Your vision blurred as you lay there, the world spinning around you. The sound of Uhtred's voice, commanding his men to protect the children with their lives, grew distant and muffled.

The ground beneath you felt cool and unforgiving, and as darkness threatened to engulf your consciousness, you desperately clung to the unreasonable hope that Uhtred and his men would see the children through this.

Sihtric's eyes widened in panic, his heart aching as he watched you collapsing to the ground. Every muscle in his body tensed with an overwhelming desire to rush to your side, but before he could make his move, your gaze locked with his, and you vehemently shook your head. With the last remnants of your strength, you whispered urgently, "Children, you must protect the children."

The pain etched on Sihtric’s face as he continued to watch you, torn between his instinct to run to you and your final plea to safeguard the children, was palpable. He nodded in understanding, your words echoing in his mind, just as the first arrows from the approaching riders sliced through the air. 

You heard a sound of someone falling to their knees near you and closed your eyes as you felt two small gentle hands, you unmistakably recognised belonging to Stiorra, cradling your head and placing it in her lap. And then everything went black. 

—---------------------------------------------------

As you slowly stirred from unconsciousness, you found yourself lying in a bed, your body aching and feverish. Memories of the riverbank and the perilous encounter with the riders rushed back, leaving you wondering how you had ended up here.

Turning your gaze, you saw Sihtric sitting by the bedside, his eyes fixed on you with a mix of relief and concern. Weakly, you attempted a smile, wanting to reassure him despite your own discomfort.

Sihtric's expression softened as he noticed your effort. "You're awake," he said softly, his voice filled with genuine relief.

You nodded, your throat dry and raspy, making it difficult to speak, the pain in your body serving as a constant reminder of the ordeal you had endured.

"How are you feeling?" Sihtric inquired, his concern deepening.

With a faint, reassuring smile, you whispered, "I've been better."

Sihtric let out a relieved chuckle, the tension in the room slightly easing. He reached out to gently brush a strand of hair from your face, his touch gentle and caring.

"You gave me quite a scare," he admitted, his voice filled with gratitude. "But you're strong, and you'll recover."

You wanted to reply, but your head began to spin, and a thick fog enveloped your thoughts, pulling you back into oblivion.

“Hey, stay with me,” Sihtric's voice broke into a silent whisper, laced with anguish and concern, but you no longer heard him. He grasped your hand and lifted it to his lips, placing soft kisses all over it.

“You are strong. You have to keep fighting. You can’t leave me now. I just found you, the missing part of my heart. Don’t you dare to leave me,” he murmured, his voice choking. An overwhelming feeling of helplessness threatened to engulf him. He wanted to protect you, ready to fight an army if necessary to ensure your safety, willing to give his life for yours. And there he was sitting at your bed, unable to ease your suffering, to shield you from the illness that had taken hold of your body, slowly sapping your strength and vitality.

Sihtric remained seated, his unwavering gaze fixed on your face, his hand gently resting on your forehead, sensing the heat of your fever. From time to time, he leaned in to plant soft kisses on your hot forehead, his fingers caressing your hair, whispering his plea softly into your ear, repeating it over and over in the hope that somehow, in your unconscious state, you could still hear him. “Please, don’t give up. I need you. I need you to stay with me… please.”

As hours passed without any sign of your awakening, and your fever continued to rage, Sihtric mustered the courage to step away from your bedside and seek out Eadith and the others.

"Tell me how bad is it? And how is Aelfwynn?" The anguish etched across Sihtric's face, his eyes desperately searching Eadith's for a glimmer of hope, made her heart ache.

Eadith had witnessed it—the love-stricken look in Sihtric's eyes each time he cast a glance in your direction. Still struggling to fully believe that you reciprocate his love, he savoured every smile, every affectionate word and every gentle gesture you extended toward him. It was a love that bordered on adoration, a sweet madness that granted him purpose and strength.

Now, he was on the verge of losing you. You were slipping away. You were dying. Both of you, as Aelfwynn's condition was no better. Eadith recognized the subtle, almost imperceptible shift when the body ceased its resistance and surrendered. You both had crossed that threshold.

As much as she wished to offer some glimmer of hope or reassurance to Sihtric and the others that everything would be alright, it had long surpassed her ability to provide relief for you and Aelfwynn. It was now in the hands of God, and she envied Osferth, whom she knew was currently praying in the small chapel. His unwavering faith in God's benevolence gave him strength, whereas she had lost her own faith long ago.

Eadith slowly shook her head, averting her gaze. Words that had begun to form on her tongue froze, unable to escape her lips. To tell Sihtric the truth would mean killing him too; to cut the last, tenuous thread of hope that kept him going.

"I've been doing my best to care for them," she finally said softly. "Their fevers are high and show no sign of abating. Their strength continues to wane. They require rest and proper care."

At least it was not a complete lie, but it was far from the whole truth. It was as close as Eadith could bring herself to utter.

A faint glimmer of hope flickered within the depths of Sihtric's eyes. He clung to those last words like a drowning man clutching a small piece of driftwood, hoping it would carry him to shore, even if that shore seemed impossibly distant. They require rest and proper care - and they will manage it – those were the words he wanted to hear and thought hearing them, even if they never left Eadith’s lips. 

There was no way to tell him that it no longer mattered, that the battle was already lost. 

Eadith nervously chewed her lower lip, her hands aimlessly tugging at her dress. The room was filled with suffocating silence. Her gaze wandered to Uhtred, who paced around the room like a caged beast, his steps heavy and agitated. He clenched his fists until his knuckles turned white from tension. Several times, he raised his fists to his mouth, biting down on his index finger, his brows furrowed, and his jaw clenched tightly.

She knew he was angry; it radiated from his every pore. He was angry at Edward for his weakness, his premature and ill-conceived actions driven by the fear of losing power. While Edward's intentions were to reunite the realm, his actions were actually tearing it apart. The young king's feeble attempt to resolve his problems by burdening unprotected children with them angered Uhtred more than anything else.

But among that Uhtred was angry at himself. He was furious with himself for not foreseeing this, for failing to anticipate the chaos that had unfolded, and for lacking an immediate solution. He was desperate to shake off this unreasonable feeling of being responsible together with the overwhelming need to take action, to do something, even if he didn’t know what. But he couldn't. He was a man of action, a man of solutions and inability to provide for one drew him to the brink of madness.

While Uhtred continued to pace, his breath becoming shallow and uneven, Eadith's gaze shifted to Finan, who sat alone at the table. His posture slumped, his hands clenched and unclenched, and his gaze was distant and unfocused, as if he were trapped in a labyrinth with no way out. He was afraid. Eadith had come to know this fearless warrior well by now and her heart was full of awe and admiration toward him. Yes, he was fearless, fearless in the battle, ready to stand up against as many men as needed, yet he was afraid—afraid of losing his friends to the spreading sickness, and desperate to protect them, yet fearing he might fail.

—--------------------------------------------

"I don't want to leave her, Eadith. You don't understand, nobody does. I can't leave her. She's everything I have," Sihtric's voice quivered, his hands shifting from the hilt of his axe, as if seeking reassurance, to his dishevelled hair, where he pulled hard before returning to clench around the axe hilt again.

"You won't be leaving her, Sihtric. You'll be trying to save her. We need a safe passage to Winchester and a proper healer for her, for both of them. Uhtred's plan is the best and only option we have. You're not abandoning her, Sihtric," Eadith spoke with conviction, though she couldn't help but despise herself at this moment. Was it a lie she was telling Sihtric? Not entirely. The last days had been full with half-truths, and this was just one more, but why did it hurt so much? Will he see her alive again? Probably not. But staying here will not change that, while leaving might bring a big change for the whole kingdom. If there was one man to bring Aethelflaed and Edward back on the path of peace, then it was Uhtred and he needed Sihtric. 

Sihtric cast one final, longing glance at the bed. You looked too small in it, your eyes closed, your face pallid. He raised his hand and took one hesitant step toward you, as if wanting to stroke your head one more time before leaving. Turning abruptly and storming out of the room, Sihtric buried his teeth in his clenched fist with such force that blood started to trail down his arm. 

“I’m not leaving you,” he whispered to himself, “You need a safe passage to Winchester, and I’ll secure it for you, no matter the cost.”

Part 1, Part 2, Part 3

[tsukkinami]

The Last Kingdom Text Memes 2/?

1

[solinarimoon]

Seeds We Sow - Love as One

New Collection in my Wildflowers series, Sihtric x OC story. I recommend reading that first.

AN: This collection (Seeds we Sow) will be several snippets and segments of Cwen and Sihtric’s lives together in the time jump between season 4 and season 5. A full new story covering season 5 is in the works!

Warnings: Mild sexual content (very mild).

Word Count: 4053

Fields of Wildflowers Masterlist

My Full Masterlist

AO3 if you prefer

The Lady of Mercia, Aethelflaed had assumed the role of leader for her people with humble grace and sacrifice.  Wasting no time, she moved forward with bolstering the peace between Mercia and Wessex and Saxon and Dane.  She continued to supply those along the borders of Mercia and along the rivers and trading routes with fortifications and boroughs.  And the message was clear.  These newly established settlements were to be places of welcoming and community between all who wished to live in peace.  Whether worshiping the one true God or the Gods of Odin and Freya, keep the peace and her Mercia would protect you.  

This push to establish safe trade and community is how Cwen along with Sihtric, and all the other company of Uhtred of Bebbanburg found themselves making a new life in the riverside village of Romcofa.  With the charge of raising young Aethelstan away from the treachery and dangers of the Wessex court and with moving their lives entirely to the outskirts of the land, there was much work and toils to be done.  But today was a day for celebration.  Rumcofa was to be christened with love and happiness.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Cwen peaked through the crack of the door at the tiny gathering crowd.  She could see Osferth speaking with Young Uhtred, the two men grinning jovially.  Finan was moving around the tree gesturing to who she assumed would be Sihtric and Uhtred.  Father Pyrlig stood with his hands clasped behind his back staring up from the trunk into the branches of the massive Oak tree where the ceremony was to be held.  Aelfwynn and Aethelstan played a youthful game of tag, dancing in and around the mingling adults.  

Aethelflaed was walking up the small path towards the tree with Aldhelm at her side.  The Mercian Lord fully embracing his role as advisor and confidant to the Lady of Mercia.

“I am surprised Lady Aethelflaed agreed to this,” Cwen whispered, imagining how difficult the day may be for her.  

“Cwen, away from the door,” Eadith chided with a wide grin on her face as she took a gentle hold of Cwen’s arm pulling her back into the room, “the ceremony should start soon and I need to finish your hair.”

The two women chuckled lightly as Eadith gently adjusted a few of the flowers on the small circlet of woven vines that rested on top of Cwen’s auburn tresses.  The white and yellow of the small blossoms contrasting delicately against the dark of her hair.

“What were you saying?” Eadith questioned as she tutted and fussed some more.  She walked to stand behind Cwen and gently weave another braid in her hair.

“Oh,” Cwen sighed, “just that I imagine today may be hard for Aethelflaed… and for Uhtred as well.  Perhaps I should not have asked.” The last was asked more to herself, her voice trailing off in thought. 

Eadith wrapped her arms around her friend from behind and rested her chin on her shoulder.  “She was going to be traveling to Rumcofa soon regardless, Cwen.  They will have to be around one another on occasion.  And the Lady has known you almost your whole lives.  Of course she would be here for you.”

“That’s true,” Cwen signed once more.  She hugged Eadith’s arms around her waist and patted her hand.  “No one else living has known me longer than Aethelflaed except her mother. And we know Lady Aelswith would not be inclined to support me today,” she chuckled lightly, not really bothered by the lack of support from the devout matron, “I suppose Uhtred would be a close second.”

Eadith squeezed Cwen once before letting her go to move over to the table in the small room where they were getting ready.  “I am sure the lady is happy to be supporting you today, Cwen.”

The room had been hastily built in the few weeks they had been in Rumcofa.  It served as bedroom and living quarter in one.  There would be time to build a home later.  The first order of business upon arriving to the new borough had been to break ground on the great hall and begin plans for building the docks and fortifying the security of the area.  Sihtric had promised Cwen that he would provide her with a home as soon as the pressing business was seen to and order established.  Finan planned to build his home alongside them.  Within easy walking distance of the great hall but a bit farther away from the center of the town. Osferth had plans for his own home, although Cwen realized she didn’t know what those plans were. 

I must make a point to ask him, Cwen mused. I hope he will not be too far.  He had mentioned something of plans for a chapel the other day. She smiled to herself thinking of how excited they all were about the prospects of their futures. The establishment of the borough came with a large responsibility but strangely it felt like freedom. 

Cwen took a staggering breath, the rush of emotions she felt welling in her heart making her chest contract and her head feel light.  Tears pricked at the corners of her eyes.  She tried to take a deep breath, hands placed over her abdomen and closing her eyes

Eadith turned, hearing her change in breathing and noticing the look on Cwen’s face. 

“Hey, hey, no no no.  What is it, Cwen?” She rushed to her side, bringing the small bouquet of flowers she had been fixing with her.

Cwen took her hand and gave it a reassuring squeeze, “It is nothing but happiness, Eadith.  Happiness and maybe a bit of nerves,” she squinted her eyes and felt the corners of her mouth pull up in a small grin,  “That is normal, right?  For a bride to be nervous on her wedding day?”

“I hear that is the way of it,” Eadith assured, grasping her arms and giving them a friendly squeeze.  “But with what we all see between you and Sihtric, I do not think your heart needs to be nervous.”

A small knock interrupted them.  Aethelflaed opened the door and stepped inside quickly shutting the door behind her as she greeted Cwen with a large smile.  “Father Pyrlig is getting Sihtric into place now.  They will be ready to start any moment.”

The Lady of Mercia swept forward and embraced Cwen, “And you look stunning, my dear friend.  Sihtric will think you are a vision. Are you nearly ready?”

Eadith handed Cwen the flowers and offered a warm smile before stepping to the door, “I will see you out there.  Just breathe.  It’s just Sihtric and friends.  That is all.”

“Thank you, Eadith,” Cwen nodded, meeting her friend's eye and once more fighting back tears.  She looked down and took a deep breath, looking at the flowers in her hands.  The wildflowers had been gathered from the surrounding glen earlier in the afternoon by Aelfwynn and Aethelstan.  A task given to them by an exasperated Eadith once she grew weary of their constant interruptions and playing under their feet.

A few more slow breaths and Cwen focused on the flowers, smiling at the thought of the children scampering around the field and picking the blossoms.  Just like they were on that day when we sat on the blanket in the fields of Saltwich, she mused.  A gentle calm slowly filled her, serene and peaceful.  She raised her head to meet Aethelflaed’s face.  

Aethelflaed stood waiting, patiently. As if she knew Cwen only needed a moment to center herself. 

“Thank you, Lady.  For being here.  For doing this.  It means a great deal to me.”  Cwen reached out and took Aethelflaed’s hand as she spoke, gripping it firmly.

“My dear Cwen,” Aethelflaed started, moving to place Cwen’s hand in the curve of her arm, ready to escort her, “We have been friends since we were barely old enough to remember.  Your care and council have not only been of value to me but have saved my daughter’s life.  I had planned on asking you who was to walk you to meet your future husband.  I am honored to present you on your day.”

The friends shared a meaningful look before both started forward, opening the door and stepping into the late evening light.

Cwen immediately found Sihtric standing at the arm of Pyrlig and did not take her eyes away from his.  His face shone with joy as he watched her walk forward with Aethelflaed.  The air was crisp and cool, returning to the comforts of autumn.  The wind shifted and pushed the moats of drifting sunlit dust to dance across their path.   She was vaguely aware of Finan clapping Osferth on the shoulder, Aethelstan running ahead of them to take his place standing next to Uhtred, and Eadith smiling next to Young Uhtred.  But all that was as if on the edge of a dream.  Unfocused.  Her eyes remained held with Sihtrics.

The sun filtered through the branches of the tree, casting streams of light down on them as Cwen stepped to stand in front of Sihtric.  Aethelflaed kissed her cheek and took her hands placing them into Sihtric’s before stepping back to take her place beside Aldhelm.  Aelfwynn shuffled in front of her mother leaning against her and holding her arm..

Father Pyrlig cleared his throat and opened his mouth to speak, but Sihtric leaned forward, interrupting him and speaking directly to Cwen.

“You are beautiful, lady.  A creature sent from the gods,” he whispered, the grin still plastered to his lips.

“Ahem,” Pyrlig cleared his throat again, placing a hand on Sihtric to usher him back a pace, “you’ll get your turn to kiss your bride.  But first let me speak the words, boy.”

Everyone laughed.

“These two young people,’ Pyrlig began, his hands folded across his waist and his feet planted firmly, “have been through many trials.  Faced battles and dangers.  They have both saved my life and I know that can be said by others gathered here as well. They have faced these tribulations alone.  And they have faced them together.  And in each other they have found happiness.  I have witnessed, we all here have witnessed the depths of these two people’s spirits.  We have seen their love.  We have seen their devotion.  So let us here witness their union.  The union of a Saxon,” Pyrlig paused, placing a hand on Cwen’s shoulder and giving her a fatherly smile before he turned and clapped Sihtric on his arm, “and a Dane.  One Christian.  And one Pagan.  One, a gentle and beautiful soul, and one a grimy and uncivilized spirit. A heathen, some might argue,” he quipped jovially, eliciting a laugh from their friends before he continued, “Two different lives.  Two different faiths.  Different upbringings and in many ways, different worlds.  But these two hearts now beat as one.  They love as one.  They ARE one.”

Pyrlig paused and looked between Sihtric and Cwen giving them both a large grin.

“They stand together now for a common purpose.  To live and thrive and move forward in peace.  Let their union be the start of a joyful and prosperous future.  A symbol of what can be achieved, what can be enjoyed when we are united.”

Cwen squeezed Sihtric’s hand as she felt more tears welling in her eyes and a swelling in her heart.  He squeezed her hands back as he brought them up to gently place a kiss along her knuckle.  She was almost surprised to see a misty glint glossing his eye as well.  

As Sihtric lowered her hands, Pyrlig threaded a cloth draped over his arm through his fingers and placed it across their interlocked hands. 

“With the tying of this cloth, your hearts will be bound.”

He turned his eyes to Cwen as he gently wrapped the cloth an additional time, “Cwen, is it your wish that you bind yourself; your heart, your body, and your soul with Sihtric?  To be a partner, a lover, and a friend to him? To carry him in his pain and to share in each other's joy?”

Cwen spoke through the smile and tears that had finally fallen from her eyes, “Yes, it is my wish.”

Pyrlig smiled at her then turned his face to Sihtric, wrapping the cloth in a third swathe as he spoke to him, “Sihtric, is it your wish that you bind yourself; your heart, your body, and your spirit with Cwen?  To honor her, care for her, and be her partner?  To carry her in her pain and to share in one another’s joy?”

Cwen felt her heart thunder as she watched Sihtric swallow before nodding and smiling.  His voice was rich and full of emotion, “It is my wish.”

Her smile grew even larger and she had to fight back a joyful sob.  Cwen was not aware of it but at some point, Pyrlig had unlaced their hands to slip the knot created by the cloth away.  He took the cloth, now an intricate knot and placed it atop their hands.

“Then I give you this charge:  Love each other fiercely.  Love each other in hardship and in happiness.  You are one.  Bound together as this knot.  Husband and wife.  Sihtric, you may now kiss your wife.”

Sihtric released Cwen’s hands and wrapped his arms around her waist, drawing her close.  She cupped his face as he swept his lips into hers.  She could feel his smile through the kiss and chuckled against it, her own smile stretching to her cheeks. Sihtric lifted her against him and she wound her arms around shoulders.  He pulled back just enough to rest his forehead against hers and placed her feet back on the ground.

“I love you, wife,” he smiled, his words finding her ears despite the hoots and cheers of their friends.  Cwen did not trust her voice to reply.  Instead she leaned in to capture his lips once more.

Pyrlig lifted his arms towards the sky and raised his voice for a final address of their union.

“As your love is now christened here by the eyes and hearts of your family and friends, so let the love you possess christen this new town.  May it ever swell with joy and prosperity.”

He then clasped Cwen and Sihtric on their shoulders, leaning his head close to theirs making them laugh and turn to him.

“Now there will be time to go make little babies, but first let us feast and drink to your happiness.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tables had been placed outside of where the great hall was in the process of being built.  Plenty of ale and a bounty of autumn dishes had been prepared and were shared with the handful of townsfolk in celebration of the first wedding in Rumcofa.  The air was cool, the fires were welcoming, and laughter was loud.  Here and there small pockets of townsfolk mingled, the atmosphere easy and carefree.  Since they had arrived in Rumcofa joining the scant number of people sent ahead of them to populate the trade dock, Uhtred and his companions had welcomed a steady flow of Danes and Saxons alike.  People looking to build homes and lives in the new peace.

Cwen laughed as she spun in a circle, moving her feet lively to the rhythm from the music.  A few villagers had brought instruments along with them and were playing some upbeat tunes.  Guder, the Danish ale-smith, danced alongside her, taking her arm and his own wife's arm in turn in a joyful and boisterous dance with no clear pattern or steps.  The couple had been among the first new residents to come find a home in Rumcofa.  His skill with crafting ales and his wife, Neel’s sharp wit along with her warm cooking had firmly established them as valued members of the community quickly.  It helped that the pair had an easy nature making anyone around them feel welcome and comfortable.

Guder, smile lines crinkling around his eyes and his nose red from his own brew, slung a fatherly arm around Cwen’s shoulder and pressed a kiss to her temple.  In a gravely but warm voice he said, “Congratulations, Young Cwen.  I hope to see you and your husband as happy as My Neel and I are in the years to come.”

At the sound of her name from her husband, Neel slapped her hand to his chest, “Lay off the poor girl, husband.  You are too far in your cups and she does not need your drunken breath invading her wedding day.”  Despite the words, Neel’s mouth smiled brightly and she too leaned forward enveloping Cwen in a large hug, wrestling her from underneath Guder’s arm and escorted her away to continue dancing.  They chuckled when Guder called after them, “It is a celebration.  What is a celebration without ale?”

“My oaf of a husband fashions himself after Aegir, our god of drink,” Neel giggled, looking back over her shoulder to smile at Guder. “Yes and the men are thankful for it,” Eadith interjected, joining them and the women laughed and clapped as they spun to the music.  The thrum and rhythm of the noise was intoxicating in its own right.

It wasn’t long before Cwen felt strong arms wrap around her waist and hoist her off her feet.  Sihtric’s deep voice laughed at her startled scream before he spun her around. 

“Ladies, allow me to steal my wife away from the merriment,” he hollered over his shoulder as he swept Cwen away before placing her down.  She turned to him and her mouth was instantly captured in another of many loving kisses they had given one another that evening.  Cwen smiled against his lips when the kiss lingered.  A ripple of heat gently slid along her body in reaction to the subtle shift in his grip and the closeness of his body. When he pulled away, she opened her eyes to meet the look of adoration on his face.  

Cwen walked herself backwards away from the music and the festivities.  His hands never left the curve of her hips as he followed her.  The intensity of his eyes and the closeness of his body were dizzying.

“Are you ready to go home, lady?” He questioned.

“You are my home, Sihtric,” she smiled and pecked his lips, “but yes.  Take me home, my husband.”

Deftly and with ease, Sihtric swept an arm underneath her legs and rolled her up into his arms, not missing a single step.  She giggled uncontrollably and held close to him.  He walked the short distance back to their small temporary one room home.  But instead of entering, he strode past it and placed her down as they reached the tree where they had spoken their vows a few short hours earlier.

Taking her hand, he led past the tree and through the sparse woods.

“I thought we were,” she trailed before Sihtric interrupted her with a smile as he squeezed her hand.

“It is a surprise.”  The tone of his voice was low and calm.  Content. “It won’t take long to get there,” he assured her.

Cwen felt her stomach flutter in anticipation of where he would lead her.  She sighed and gripped his arm with her free hand, leaning into him as they strolled.  The noise from the celebration slowly faded as they moved farther away.  Soon all they could hear was a quiet murmur, like the buzzing of bees.  It mingled with the noises of the forest in the night, the trill of the crickets and the chirps of the other night time creatures.  

How peaceful and calm, Cwen thought.  It is nice to finally have this quiet time. She did not only mean the quiet of that evening.  She was happy they seemed to have settled into the new peace in Mercia.  It was time for life to settle down and treat them all gently.

A few short minutes later, they broke through the line of trees to the edge of the meadow.  It was the same spot where the children had gathered the flowers for her bouquet.  A soft breeze rippled around the field and shadows danced across the grass as clouds passed over the moon.  Sihtric released her hand to wrap his arm around her and draw her close.  The air was cool, but not cold.  It was a welcome coolness after the fading heat of the summer and the activities of the day.  

She closed her eyes and leaned her head against his chest, breathing deeply. He smelt of spiced ale and the forest after a rain.  Of rich earth and a musk that was all his own.  She clung to him a little tighter.

“Come on,” he insisted after a moment, drawing her off towards the edge of the field to their right.  As they got closer, Cwen saw a large blanket strewn on the ground.  

“Is this your surprise, Sihtric?”

“It is,” he replied simply. He took her hand and helped her take a seat on the blanket before stooping down himself and reclining next to her.  He leaned back on his side, propped up on one elbow.  Cwen crossed her legs in front of her and lay back to meet him, placing a quick peck on his lips. 

“This seems familiar,” she hummed, turning her head to now look out over the meadow.  “Was it that long ago, when we were watching Aethelstan and Aelfwynn play in the fields at Saltwich?”

Sihtric murmured his agreement, shifting an arm across her waist to pull her into him as he lay back resting his head on the crook of his arm. “Only then I was not able to hold you close and call you wife.”

“No,” Cwen agreed as she turned onto her side to meet his face, “instead you kept your eyes trained on me like a hawk.  A silent, brooding bodyguard.”

“I did not brood,” he protested mildly. 

Cwen bit her lip trying to stop the smile growing on her face.  Stifling a giggle, she arched an eyebrow at him, questioningly.  

“Ok, I was brooding,” he admitted defeat with a grin, “but you cannot deny there was cause.”

“I do not deny it.  But I am glad to be here now, calling you husband and laying in your arms,” she sighed.  “And now, dear husband, I ask that you take me as a husband is supposed to take their wife.”

“Oh, I have corrupted you,” he laughed as he flipped himself over to hover over her kissing her neck and face.

“Am I not supposed to want to be with my husband,” Cwen questioned, while squirming and giggling from the scratch of Sihtric’s facial hair on her, “how else are you to give me children, I wonder.”  

She howled as Sihtric began tickling her and growling playfully in her ear, “I will give you children, love.  And we will have plenty of practice.  I plan to please you whenever you will allow it.  You have come a long way from the coy and modest woman I first lay with, my dear.” He stopped peppering her with kisses to pull back and meet her eyes.  The traces of laughter faded from his face and he stared at her adoringly.  “You took my breath away today, Cwen.  I feel blessed by the gods, your god and mine that I have found you.”

She felt her own breath hitch and once more tears swam at the corners of her eyes.  Moved by the power of his words and intensity of his heart, she pulled his face to hers and kissed him.  Breathless as he pulled away, she opened her eyes and felt his forehead rest against hers.

“You are the man who has brought me to life, Sihtric.  I love you.  And I will always love you,” she whispered, stroking his face tenderly.

“I love you, Cwen,” he returned before bringing his mouth to hers once more.  

They made love, long and deep and pure.  And after they had both found their bliss and release, they lay entwined in one another's arms.  Both content and hopeful for the future they envisioned together.  The possibility of peace, longstanding and joyful, was finally a reality. 

~~~~~~~~

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