#Ivar The Boneless Fic

[entitled-fangirl]

A ring and a cold heart.

Ivar the Boneless x Lagerthasdottir!reader

Summary: Lagertha's gift of a daughter and Ragnar's monster of a son have loved one another for far too long. But things in Kattegat are fragile, and the two now must make choices.

Warnings: mostly spoilers for S4b

A/n: I had to break this into sections. Trust that p2 is gonna get serious real fast.

Masterlist

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The Seer had been right.

Lagertha would never give Ragnar a son, never bearing one after her Bjorn. But when Earl Kalf came into her life, she suddenly found herself with child.

There was little hope that the child would make it. After all, the Seer said so.

But a daughter?

Lagertha's second chance to make up for the death of her sweet Gyda. She held the babe close.

And yet.

No one predicted that she'd one day end up in the arms of Ivar the Boneless.

…

"It seems like a death sentence," she explained to Ivar. "Suicide, even."

"My father wants me to go," Ivar shrugged. "He needs me. I can't say no to that. To the gods."

She sighed. He was beyond stubborn. A true Ragnarsson trait.

She often traveled between Hedeby and Kattegat, staying with Bjorn when here. It was a strange thing to have her around, but Bjorn was the Prince of Kattegat, so others didn't have much room to question.

Plus, the Ragnarssons didn't mind a bit.

She was neither the daughter of Ragnar or Aslaug, but because of her connection to Bjorn, she was a sister to all five of them.

Well, four of them.

Ivar's love had always gone beyond that. As did hers for him.

"What if you go with Bjorn instead?" She tried. Her hand stretched out over his. "To the Mediterranean."

His head lulled. "My brothers have always doubted me. Not my father. He knows what the gods have in store for me."

"And what if all that is store is your death?"

He ran his tongue across his teeth. "Then I will die."

"Marry me before you go," she rushed out, immediately caving in once it was uttered.

"I will not risk making you a widow before you get to truly be a wife."

She felt tears well up in her eyes. She was never the strong one around. Lagertha swore to have a peaceful reign when she became Earl. There was no need to teach her daughter the hardships of being a shield maiden. She had no need to- Lagertha on one side and Bjorn on the other always. Gyda was so soft. So kind. Y/n was no different, only older. She had a chance to grow up kind.

"Don't cry," Ivar huffed. He had no idea what to do with tears. "I'll be back soon enough."

"Swear to it."

He shook his head. "I will not swear if I don't know the will of the gods."

"Then swear you'll marry me if you return."

He couldn't stop another scoff, "woman-"

"-Ivar, please."

"Ivar!" Aslaug's voice interrupted.

The queen stepped into the room, her worry turning to amusement at the sight of the two. She'd always had an odd relationship with Lagertha. How strange was fate to bring their children together? 

"Let me speak to my mother," Ivar gently waved.

Y/n nodded and stood, but her wrist was caught by him. "I swear to it," he remarked, looking her firmly in the eye.

…

Lagertha had come to Kattegat with the help of Torvi and Margerette. She hadn't dragged Y/n into the plans.

So when she took Kattegat, Y/n stood at the sidelines in shock, even letting out a shriek when Aslaug fell to the ground dead.

She wanted to feel betrayed by her mother. She should have. But she couldn't find it in herself. Lagertha had sat on the sidelines for too long as her world was taken away.

So she was torn when Ubbe and Sigurd had come to her privately.

"How are you not angry," Ubbe lectured his brother. "Our mother is dead."

"And it is for the best," Sigurd huffed. "Y/n's mother is the only one around here that knows how to truly mother. Look at Bjorn."

"Y/n?" Ubbe questioned.

She sat with her head in her hands, utterly confused by it all. "I won't choose sides."

"We all know it will come to it eventually."

She lifted her head with a heartbroken look. "Then I side with Bjorn. The side he chooses, I follow."

Ubbe nodded. "Very well. So, we wait for Bjorn."

"No," Sigurd shivered. "We wait for Ivar more."

The three exchanged nervous glances.

…

Ivar had returned first. Carried by soldiers of King Ecbert's guard, he was set onto the wooden dock of Kattegat.

She couldn't muster the strength to go welcome him. He wouldn't find out such devastating news from her.

But the next day, Ivar crawled his way into the feast hall with his picks. The entire room quieted as they waited for what the angry son of Aslaug would say.

His eyes slowly trailed from Lagertha, to Torvi, to Astrid, then finally, Y/n.

She stood to the side, a completely guilty expression strung across her face.

No one was immune to noticing the way his eyes glued themselves to her in every room.

It had been like that since her first visit to Kattegat.

It's what finally drove the stake between Sigurd and Ivar. The love Bjorn had for Y/n that he never had for his own daughter, Siggy. And how Sigurd had loved little Siggy.

Y/n's life was always a comparison to one's already dead. All did it but Ivar. Perhaps that is why she was so content to be stuck in his web.

When Largertha refused Ivar's challenge, he was becoming angrier. He knew his easiest chance to kill her was by hand-to-hand combat. Ivar was a cripple, but a damn good one.

"I will kill you, Lagertha. Your fate is fixed," he growled.

Content with his threat, he looked back to Y/n, pulling a chain from around his neck.

A ring.

She felt something in her stomach twist at the shimmer that crossed her vision. His fingers rubbed over it a few times, egging for a reaction from the girl he promised to marry.

He let the chain drop to his chest with a smirk. Especially when her eyes followed it.

…

As soon as the meeting was adjourned, she rushed out to Ragnar's old cabin. The children had found it when he'd left, and it was their designated space away from the rest of the world. Plus, that was all the boys had to live in now. Ivar would be there.

She rushed in, not caring that the other brothers were gathered around. "Ivar?"

The three others looked at one another with questioning glances before completely packing up and walking out. The brothers weren't about to intervene.

The door closed before Ivar finally spoke. "What do you want?"

"Are you not grateful to be home? To be back? To be the only survivor?" She sat next to him, her voice lowering. "Are you not happy to see me?"

He scoffed, turning away.

"I didn't know, Ivar. I swear to you."

"Seems like we enjoy making swears we don't intend to keep, hm?" He mocked. 

Her eyes moved down to the chain again. She sat up straighter and brushed a hand over his chest. Over the ring. "You truly won't marry me now?" She asked softly.

His hand wrapped around her wrist gruffly. But after the initial touch, his grip softened. His jaw was clenched, his anger unchecked. But he couldn't help the flutter that still moved through his chest. "I don't know," he answered honestly. "I don't know if I want children with traitor blood."

Her fingers twiddled with the ring. "You know better than I that we don't choose our mothers. The gods do."

"And yet, you'll never help me get my revenge."

"No," she agreed. "I won't."

His eyes wandered over her face. The anger bubbled under his skin. But not at her. And that frustrated him more. "I'll still marry you. But you cannot fault your future husband when he has his revenge."

"But Bjorn will-"

"-That is my offer to you, my love. If you want this ring," he offered, pulling the chain from around his neck and setting it on the wooden table, "Then that is your choice. I have taken my stand. You know what I will do. Will you still marry me?"

She stared down at the jewelry. She'd longed for this for years now. Being his wife.

This could make or break everything.

"I… I don't know," she admitted back to him.

"You don't know?"

"I should wait. For Bjorn to come back. And Hvitserk."

He set a heavy hand on her thigh. Not menacing, but not softly either. "Will you ever choose things for yourself? Or will you wait on Bjorn hand and foot as he decides your fate?"

"Ivar-"

"-No. I do not mind if you must think on it more. But do not do what Bjorn says purely because you think it is right. He makes mistakes." His head tipped down and his gaze turned menacing. "You will choose."

She nodded. "I need time."

"Good," his voice lightened. He even managed a smile. His body leaned forward like he was thinking of kissing her, but he paused and gave a quick nod of his head in acceptance. Then he looked at the ring and her one last time before pulling himself down to the floor and leaving.

She exhaled a long breath, taking the chain and placing it around her neck, tucking it away.

…

Another feast, another problem.

Y/n wasn't far off from Torvi and Astrid, hearing them speak about something being wrong as the large doors closed.

"Like what?" Astrid asked.

"I don't know, but something."

Sigurd let out a small grunt as someone grabbed him from behind and held him at knifepoint. That began a whole group coming forward and grabbing at Lagertha's shield maidens and earls alike, restraining them all.

A hand grabbed Y/n's wrist, holding it out.

Ivar's ring was wrapped around her finger. She'd chosen.

Whoever it was dropped her hand entirely and stepped away from her, meaning she stood amidst the chaos, entirely left alone.

Everyone began to part, and Y/n tucked away towards Sigurd. Her hand grabbed the wrist of the man holding him in an attempt to pry him away.

Ivar and Ubbe approached Lagertha's throne. Lagertha was rather unfazed by it, standing and grabbing her sword slowly. She was a fighter to the end.

Ivar was impressed by her willingness to face him. He sat up with his spike as Ubbe circled around the queen.

The tension could be cut with a knife. Waiting for someone to make the first move.

The door burst open, and in walks Bjorn.

"If you kill her, my brothers," he sauntered, "you'll have to kill me too."

Y/n and Sigurd both let out relieved sighs. The argument was far from over. But with Bjorn there, the fight would not be one-sided.

"Maybe we should," Ivar warned.

"Shut up," Ubbe immediately countered. He respected Bjorn immensely, and starting conflict with Ironside was like starting to dig your own grave. "She killed our mother," he mentioned. Bjorn would see where he was coming from. Surely.

"I know. You want revenge. So would I." He took in a deep breath. "But more importantly, we have to avenge our father. That is why I came back. And that," he tapped his axe against Ivar's cheek, "is what we are going to do."

Lagertha smiled and threw down her sword, prompting the rest to follow.

As Sigurd was let go, Y/n immediately tended to him, rubbing a soft hand over his neck at the irritated skin. 

Frustrated, Ubbe and Ivar left.

She was torn between following them and staying with Bjorn and Lagertha.

But after speaking to the new queen, Bjorn spotted her. That made the decision. She approached him, smoothing out her dress as she weaved through everyone.

Within a few minutes, the feast began again like nothing had happened, but Bjorn was still far from jovial.

She wasn't even sure the viking knew what that word meant.

"So, I travel all the way past Frankia, through pirated seas and storms, I keelhaul my own uncle, and still," he grumbles, "things turn to ruin here the moment I turn away."

"You hated Aslaug," Y/n points out. "You always have."

"Since I watched her sleep with my father the first time they met, yes. Yes, I have," he complained. "But our mother has caused a rift that I'd rather not have now. I have revenge of my own to get and I need my brothers in order to do it."

"You have your brothers," she pointed out. "Of Ragnar's wrongful death, you all agree."

"I will not play guard to mother's kingdom more than I did before. I want to sail. To travel."

"Then don't."

He let out a long sigh. "This is why I love the sea. It is predictable. People are not. Like you," he pointed his cup towards her.

"Like me?"

"You wear a ring and you say nothing about it. You have not asked for my allowance. Let me see it." He held out a large hand, to which she slipped the band off and gave to him. 

Bjorn flipped it in his palm a few times before a daunting thought came over him. "Where did you get this?" He questioned roughly. "Who is proposing with this ring? I'll kill him."

"Brother," she scoffed. "Why the sudden rage?"

"Does mother know?" He asked in complete ignorance of her previous question.

"No. No, and she won't. Not right now."

"I'll ask one more time," Bjorn growled, leaning across the table. "Who is proposing with Mother's ring?"

Oh.

Where had Ivar gotten Lagertha's ring? 

"Our mother wore this ring until the day she and I left Ragnar. Her wedding band. Now answer the question, sister."

"Give it back, Bjorn." She tried to muster up confidence. It didn't quite work.

Bjorn's lips quirked up at that, all too amused. "I don't think I will. I think I'll hold onto this until you decide to ask for my blessing."

"That is cruel!"

He shrugged. "I don't care. Either you tell me now or he can come get it from me himself."

She let out a tantrum-like grunt and stood up, her chair scrapping against the wood. She weaved through the crowd and finally out into the cold air.

…

The journey was a little harder in the dark than she'd thought. The air was cold and frigid, and she was far from dressed for it. The wind chilled her immensely, traveling down her bones. Her chattering teeth exhaled a visible breath when she saw the cabin.

"Ivar? Ivar!" She called out as she neared.

Hvitserk was the one to come out with a concerned brow raised. 

Y/n felt guilty, still not welcoming Hvitserk after the raid. She all but collapsed into his chest, wrapping her arms around him and finally relaxing.

Hvitserk froze for a moment. Touch was never his thing. "You miss me?"

"Like hell," she mumbled against his chest.

He chuckled and circled his arm around her. "Already using Christian phrases, hm? Don't let Ivar hear you. Congratulations, by the way."

It was her turn to freeze, her head tilting up until she looked straight up at him. "What?"

"You're to be married, are you not? He said so." At her hum of agreement, he rubbed a hand down her back. "You're freezing, sister. You'll catch a chill if I don't get you inside."

He guided her in. The warm air from their small fire immediately caused a shiver down her body. Hvitserk frowned and held a hand to her forehead. "Gods. I'd think you were half dead like this."

That caught Ivar's attention. His head snapped up, his entire body relaxing at the sight of her. "Did you travel this far like that?" He questioned, his hand motioning to her lack of heavy clothing.

She stepped to the fire, sitting down next to Ubbe. He wrapped an arm around her shoulders, trying to transfer some of his heat. After all, he'd been scheming over the flames for a while now. He could afford to give some of the warmth up. 

Ubbe gave a small glare to Ivar, effectively telling him to drop the question. "Let me see this ring Ivar said so much about."

Her face dropped. "Oh. I… it's…"

One by one, the siblings realized that something was not quite right and Ubbe should have minded his own business. In all honesty, it was a fair ask. One that usually is fine to ask to an engaged woman. 

Ivar let out a long, loud breath. He seethed from his place at the table. "Where is it? I was told it was on your finger only hours ago."

How to explain that Bjorn had taken it without Ivar immediately growing angry? After all, Ironside didn't know that it was Ivar's. It wasn't personal at all. But that's not how Ivar saw things.

"Where is it?" He asked in a firmer tone. His head tilted. His tongue ran over the back of his teeth. "Did someone take it from you?"

"Don't be angry-"

"-No I AM ANGRY!" He yelled. "Tell me yes or no. Have you gone back on your word?"

"Ivar," Ubbe scorned. "Let the woman speak." He pulled a piece of hair from her face. "Go on."

She sniffled and moved closer to the fire to warm her hands. She stared at her ring finger longingly. "I do, Ivar. I want to marry you."

Hvitserk smirked widely, peering at his brother in a tease. His brother. In love. 

Ivar exhaled in a hidden form of relief. "Alright."

"I did not tell Bjorn about it yet. I wanted to wait…"

"-But?" Ubbe interrupted.

"But Bjorn saw it before I could." She frowned. "Where did you get Lagertha's ring?"

Every head shot to Ivar in shock.

He shrugged. "Father gave it to me. On our way to Wessex. I told him that we would marry when I returned and he gave me the ring. Chain and all. He said he'd worn it around his neck since the day your mother left him."

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[collecting-stories]

Willow - Ivar the Boneless

Summary: Feast night in Kattegat, some pretty shameless flirting.

A/N: I haven't written vikings in forever but part of this was in my drafts from like, last year and I finally finished it this morning.

TS Anthology Masterlist | Vikings Masterlist

✰ wait for the signal and I'll meet you after dark ✰

The lanterns that lined the path from the village to the fjord were lit, glowing a warm orange beneath the ever darkening sky. There were soft sounds of a lyre playing somewhere just beyond your line of sight, settling a trance over the whole of the village as you made your way through smaller parties that gathered outside of the great hall, enchanted by the warm night. Feast nights were always your favorite, less of a formality than a festival or a celebration, you weren't so watched on a feast night as you were other times. 

"Have you come to join the dancing?"

Still, there were some whose gaze you never quite seemed to escape. As you addressed the rustling of bushes near your knees, you peered down in the dim light to find Ivar, stakes dug into the ground as he frowned up at you, obviously not amused by the playful teasing. 

"Perhaps someone could string me up like those nonsensical dolls they bring to market, wouldn't you enjoy that?" He retorted, thinking of the countless times he'd requested his mother have the man with the marionettes killed. Or punished violently, he wasn't picky. 

You bent your knees, squatting down so your butt hovered over the grass, reaching a hand out to stroke Ivar's cheek. He leaned his face into your touch, turning his head just so to brush his lips to your open palm.

"You think I am making fun of you? You forget then, I have felt the way you move against me when we are beneath the furs on your bed my love, there is no dance I long for more." You replied. 

Ivar huffed, tilting his head down just enough to nip at your exposed wrist, "now I know you are playing with me." He replied, "I should have you strung up like that marionettes."

When you smiled he couldn't deny the triumphant feeling that gripped his heart, as if some unknown force was saying 'look, you who is so plagued by hideous feelings and darkness, you have made the sun shine in the dead of night'. 

"You would enjoy that." You repeated his words back to him, a statement this time and not a question. 

Carefully, so that you didn't fall over completely, you stood back up, brushing your hands down the front of your clothing. Ivar watched you as the doors to the great hall sung open and more people filed out, shouting and laughing with each other. The lights inside the building and the ruckus had drawn your attention for a split second but then your gaze was back on Ivar, the soft light of the lanterns shining on his face and illuminating his blue eyes. 

"Shall we take our leave?" You asked, sounding somewhat conspiratorial as you watched him. 

Despite the informality of the feast, you were certain your parents would notice if you were gone for too long or if you left early. They'd been careful with you ever since you'd come of age, cautious of who took an interest in their youngest child. Though they knew better than to speak out of turn about the disabled son of Ragnar Lothbrok, you could see, and so could most everyone else, that he was not who they wanted you to spend time with. Ivar knew, certainly. He'd seen the disdainful looks but it rarely deterred him. Ivar had always been someone who got exactly what he wanted, whether through temper tantrums, deceit, manipulation, or someone's misguided pity. Still, he looked almost surprised at the suggestion, though it only showed for a split second before he was schooling his expression to a neutral one. 

"I thought feast nights were your favorite? Don't you want to celebrate all who have returned from raiding?" He asked, shifting his weight so he could look up at you with more ease.

"Of course I want to," you replied, ignoring the first of his questions, "but I don't think I need anyone in there watching me celebrate your safe return."

Ivar's face flushed up to his ears and you smiled in satisfaction. "You are worse than Loki with your tricks." 

"What tricks?" You asked, sitting this time, your legs crossed in front of you and knees brushing against his hands. You leaned forward, your face as close to Ivar's as you could be without touching him, "don't you want to celebrate?" 

"What would your father say, hm?" Ivar hummed, secretly thrilled when your hand found its place cradling his face again, your thumb gently stroking his cheek. 

"Are you really more interested in discussing my father?" You asked, "when I am famished and have been waiting since the ships first crested the horizon to feast?"

"Were you not just in the great hall?" Ivar questioned, squinting in the dim lantern light so that he could appraise your words. 

"I was. You weren't though and I have been eager to sink my teeth into you," you teased, snapping playfully at him. 

The flush was back on Ivar's cheeks tenfold, flustered by the very suggestion that you wanted to be with him. It wasn't the first time you and he had laid together. Thank god for that, Ivar thought briefly as you stood again, stepping off the path and back toward the bushes that Ivar had come out of before. 

Your first time together had been awkward and slightly painful and he had been embarrassed for some weeks afterward that you would be hesitant to speak to him again, let alone allow him in your bed. Some goddess had blinded you with love or lust or adoration though because you seemed so taken with him from then on that you often sought him out, much to his own excitement. Ivar was just as adoring and in love as you were, if not more. While it was more than true that he got exactly what he wanted all the time, it was always better when he was wanted back. 

"Are you coming?" You asked, looking over your shoulder at him. 

"Yes. You'll notice it is a bit more difficult to turn around when you're unable to stand up." He grumbled, digging his stakes into the ground as he shifted himself around to follow you. 

"Perhaps, but I do so enjoy watching you."

"Humorous is it?" Ivar snapped, missing the way you smiled at his sour disposition. 

"Not the word I would use," you replied. "Is a snake in the grass humorous? Or is it beautiful? Dangerous? Exciting?" 

"I am a snake now?"

"Oh, most assuredly my love, you are full of venom. Though, I would gladly let you bite me." You teased, watching him as he caught up with you. 

"You have not let me yet," he replied, looking far more sour at that remark than at anything else you'd said all night.

"Patience."

He huffed, "I have endured a treacherous ocean, armies of men, illness, injury, near death...and you tell me to have patience?"

"Just for a simple kiss." You replied, as if it was nothing to him, "you have brought riches back with you...surely that means more than a simple kiss."

Ivar tugged your ankle as you stepped closer to him, knocking your legs out from under you and watching with satisfaction as you fell to the ground. 

"Ivar!" You laughed, uninjured and no less enamored with him than you had been before. He smiled, devious grin lighting up his features in the dark as he crawled over you, staking the ground over your sleeve so that you couldn't move away from him. "What are you doing?"

"I have no patience," he replied, "I shall have my feast here."

[vikingsmasterlist]

Autumn (Ivar.OFC)

The Favorite

The Reckoning

Unwarranted Advice

Prideful Adoration

Inguz

[ivarlover]

UNPREPARED

Part 2 (sequel #5 to UNLEASHED, UNDENIABLE, UNEXPECTED, and UNPREDICTABLE)

Alex + Modern Ivar

Mentions of Female Reader + Hvitserk

NSFW 18+ ONLY

If you're new here and want to catch up, just go to my pinned master list.

A special thanks to my Beta reader @lostasalice-thisway ! Couldn't have done it without you! 😘 I hope you guys like it!

Summary: During a hot weekend between Alex and his best friend, Ivar, it turned into an entire relationship between the two of them that neither of them had seen coming. Now, that they are just getting into the swing of things and finding their groove with navigating their relationship, Ivar's ex fiance comes back into the picture, with his child he didn't know existed, and it seems she's sure to shake things up.

Warnings, The sequel in general: Totally NSFW, Unprotected anal sex (male receiving), oral, male to male contact and more, a bad case of the feels, language, smut, with me, there is ALWAYS smut. 🤣 Each chapter will have its own warnings.

This chapter: Language, explicit, major case of the feels, heartbreak, *inaccurate and unrealistic medical descriptions, diagnosis, and practices, unrealistic police and emergency assistance procedures, descriptions, and practices,* anguish, angst, guilt, and self loathing, violent descriptions and details, and actually no smut in this chapter (a smut warning that there is no smut? Haha)

Please leave a comment and let me know what you think!

Words: I don't know; too MANY to count

*Let me know if you want on or off the tag list!*

Note from me: My apologies for how long this has taken, but hopefully, you'll find it worth the wait. 🤞🏼 I had some major problems with getting this one written, including, but not limited to, accidentally deleting a portion of it and needing to rewrite it. PLEASE feel free to share your feedback. Hope you enjoy!

@lostasalice-thisway @istorkyou @vero-maris-zamo @lonewolf471 @galaxy-1000 @covidinducedsocialreject @chapada010101010 @tessakate @twistergirlie @noway4u @velvetvowsandvikingdreams

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Series Master List

Alex sat in the chair beside Ivar's hospital bed, his hand in Ivar's as he gripped it, a sign showing him he would not leave his side. His other hand lovenly rubbed his cheek, "Close your eyes, and get some rest, Ivar. You need it. You've been through a lot today. I'll be right here when you wake up. I'm not going anywhere."

Ivar's eyes watered again, as he wet his lips, attempting to speak to him, but Alex stopped him. "Shhh. Save your voice. I know it's difficult for you to speak." Ivar's eyes widened at Alex in an obvious panic.

Alex placed his hand over Ivar's heart and gently rubbed, feeling it pound as if it was going to jump out of his chest, as he said, "You heard the doctor. You'll slowly get your voice back without pain."

When he glared at Alex again, Alex then understood his nervousness. "You're going to be fine. It's totally safe for you to sleep. Look at your oxygen levels, and listen to your heartbeat," he pointed to the monitors. "They're both very strong. I promise it's safe. I wouldn't let you sleep otherwise, and you need to rest. Ok? And I'll be right here by your side. I promise."

Squeezing Alex's hand a little tighter, Ivar slowly nodded, knowing he was in safe hands with Alex at his side. As he closed his eyes, he weakly made kissing lips at Alex. Alex grinned. Even in a hospital bed, Ivar still thought of such things. Alex leaned forward and gave him a gentle peck on his lips. "Now, sleep."

As Ivar finally dozed off, Alex's mind wandered back to the day's events. It had truly been fate that Ivar had woken up on his own when he did. He didn't even want to think of what the alternative had been, how they'd planned to take him off life support. He was thankful that Ivar was a defiant little shit, even when he wasn't conscious.

He couldn't prevent himself from reliving the intense moments after Ivar had opened his eyes. In what had actually only been a minute or even less, it had felt as if Katia had been gone from the room for an eternity to get a nurse. Alex had been helplessly looking at the love of his life, trying to calm him and wipe his tears, when Katia finally busted back into the room with doctors and nurses.

Alex jerked around to them in urgency, "He's awake! He's awake! He needs you to remove the tube!"

Within seconds, the doctors cleared the room, telling them to wait outside so they could do their job. Alex saw Ivar's panic stricken face, "I'm not leaving you. I'll be right outside the door. I'll be back in as soon as they give the word."

Once in the hallway, at Alex's request, Katia hurried off to tell Ivar's family the news. He impatiently waited at the door like he said he would, but he did not like what he heard.

Loud voices were all talking at once in Ivar's room. Alex heard clatter, what sounded like something falling to the floor and shattering, before he heard Ivar's strained voice groaning in what could only be described as excruciating pain.

At that very moment, Katia, a historical Aslaug, and Ivar's three brothers all rushed to his side. In pretty much unison, they all asked what was happening.

As Alex was about to answer, they heard another loud groan from Ivar followed by the sound of chairs squeaking across the floor. "What the fuck?" leave it to Hvitserk to state the obvious.

As Aslaug began to speak between her tears, "I'm going in there! That's my son!" the door opened.

A familiar nurse to Alex, as he'd been there in the hospital with Ivar just as long as Ivar had been, stood in the doorway. Quickly scanning the small crowd that had gathered, her eyes landed on Alex. "Alex, umm, Mr. Lothbrok, please. Can you help us? He won't let us touch him, and he's asking for you."

Aslaug quickly responded, "He's talking? I'm his mother. I'll go."

The nurse stepped in front of her, blocking her, as she took a step toward the entrance. "No, he's not talking yet. He won't let us take the tube out, and I'm sorry, ma'am, but we need Alex."

Alex stepped to her, "Is he ok?"

"Well, yes, but we tried to remove the tube and he went crazy, shoving and pushing us all. He's got some strength on him to be in the condition he's in. He ripped the IVs out of his arms and every other cord he could reach. He keeps pushing us away and pointing to the door. I asked if he meant you, and he moved his eyes up and down. Can you try to calm him for us?"

A bit taken back, and feeling the weight of Aslaug's shocked stare, Alex answered, "Of course," and entered the room with the nurse closing the door behind them.

As they entered the room, Alex was surprised at what he saw. He may have even laughed if not for the seriousness of the situation. The bedside table was laying on its side in the floor, all the contents that had been on it, scattered across the floor with some of it broken. The two chairs were moved across the room, one on its side, and then he saw Ivar. His hand and arm was bleeding where he'd yanked the IVs out, the blood pressure cuff was ripped and in the floor, the heart monitor was beeping a high pitched sound with only one of the connections still attached to Ivar's chest, and Ivar held both of his hands up in defense to ward off the doctors and nurses from him. Everyone was talking, practically yelling, at the same time, and Ivar clinched his eyes shut. Alex could only imagine the headache he must have.

He quickly rushed to Ivar's side, holding his hands up to everyone trying to talk. Ivar's eyes popped open as he heard Alex softly ask, "Ok, what do you need me to do?"

A doctor motioned his hands toward Ivar, "Convince your husband that he needs to lay as still as possible so we can get this overwith already and he can rest."

Alex spoke softly to Ivar as he grabbed his hand, "Look, I'll be right here with you. I'm not going anywhere, but you've got to let them do this. You'll feel so much better afterwards."

Alex looked back to the doctor, "Is there at least something you can give him to numb the discomfort? I won't be responsible if he punches any of you guys."

"Sir, we already did, directly into one of the IVs, but as you can see, he's ripped them out, so I'm not sure how much of it he actually got."

Alex looked to Ivar, and Ivar moved his eyes back and forth. "Well, can you give him something now? Directly in his vein or something local on his throat, maybe?"

The two doctors spoke under their breath to each other, and finally, one answered, "Yes, we can do that. If he's going to let us touch him."

Alex assured them that he would as he held Ivar's hand, rubbing his thumb across the back of it, attempting to calm him as much as he could. He looked at Ivar lovenly, "You're going to be ok. I'm right here."

Ivar's heartbeat sped up as the doctor got closer to him. "Son, we're going to do what we can to make this as quick and painless as possible, but please understand, you're young and in good shape. You have toned muscle and membrane. Your body is going to try to resist this." Alex gulped. "I need you to concentrate, and relax as much as possible. If you tense up, it's going to make it more difficult, and I don't want to hurt you." He squeezed Alex's hand a bit tighter. "So, you understand?" Ivar gave him a weak thumbs up. He hadn't noticed, but the doctor had given him a shot in his arm. He was thankful for the distraction.

On the doctor's say, one nurse went to the side of Ivar opposite Alex. She grabbed his hand. The other nurse pressed buttons on the bed to lay him straight on his back before coming around to his head. She pulled out something that looked like a belt and told him what she was doing as she did. She placed it on his forehead and pulled it tightly around the back of the bed and fastened it. Ivar's eyes grew wide and Alex began rubbing his arm. "We're almost finished," the nurse said softly to him.

The two doctors went to either side of the bed after putting on gloves. One worked on pulling the tape lose while the other said, "You've got you a good one here, Mr. Lothbrok. He hasn't left this hospital the entire time you've been here. Day in and day out, he's been right here by your side." Ivar looked at Alex, more emotion coming from a single stare than Alex could have ever expected.

The doctors readied themselves as the one continued talking. "You know, I thought he was going to put our nurses out of a job. He's the one who shaved you. He bathed you and washed your hair." The other doctor nodded his head as he turned the life support machine off. The one talking took ahold of the tubing. "He sat right here with you the whole time, never leaving your side, talking to you, and reading you books. He even set up camp in the room next door to you to be sure we did right by you. I'd say this man loves you dearly, Son." And with that, he jerked the tube in one fluid motion. Ivar's eyes widened as he groaned and began to cough. The nurse at his head placed her hands on his cheeks, attempting to prevent him from turning his head. Ivar gripped Alex's and the other nurse's hands. Just as he felt like he was going to come up off of the bed, the doctor said, "And we're done."

Alex couldn't believe what he'd just seen. He was impressed that Ivar hadn't broken lose and punched the doctor right in the face. He knew it hurt. Ivar's face told him just how much.

Only seconds had passed, and suddenly, Ivar leaned over and threw up into the floor, looking at Alex apologetically. "That's perfectly normal, Mr. Lothbrok," the doctor reassured him.

As the nurses busied themselves cleaning him and the floor up and removing everything, the doctor told Alex, "He's going to need to rest now. His voice will be hoarse for a while. He can have ice chips or sip on water, but he doesn't need to have too much or he'll be sick again."

"We'll run some tests on him tomorrow and let you all know where we stand. A nurse will come back in to reconnect the heart monitor to his chest, the oxygen reader to his finger, and a new blood pressure cuff. Right now, I understand family is waiting and anxious to see him, but please keep it quick. He really does need his rest." The other doctor and nurses left the room as the one speaking said, "I'll give you two some time and tell your family you'll let them know when they can come in."

As he stepped away from the bed, Alex told him, "Doctor, thank you. Umm, thank you for your help."

"Certainly. And thank you for helping us with taming the wild beast," he winked and grinned as he left the room.

The moment the door closed, all of Alex's attention was turned to Ivar. "Oh my God, Ivar." He leaned down and kissed him on the forehead before he went into action, wiping Ivar's face, moving his hair out of his eyes, pulling the blankets up over him. "What do you need? Ice? Water? Would you like me to step out so you can rest?" His mind was jumping around at all the things he needed to do for Ivar.

Ivar weakly raised his left hand and grabbed Alex's, stopping him. He pulled it to his chest and held it there tightly. As he took a deep breath, he began to cough, and Alex grabbed kleenex from the box and held it to his mouth, helping him wipe it.

"Water?"

Ivar slowly nodded, clearly still in pain. Alex grabbed the water bottle from the sink and brought it over, holding it to Ivar's lips. "Slowly, just sip. Don't want you getting choked." Ivar did just that, coughing again. Alex was about to remove the bottle, but Ivar took it in his hand and sipped a little more, wetting his lips.

When Alex placed it back on the sink and came back to Ivar's side, grabbing his hand again, Ivar softly whispered, with a groggy voice, "Th-thank you, Love." The corner of his eyes were wet, and Alex used every ounce of strength he had left not to cry like a baby.

"You don't have to thank me. I'd do anything for you. You know that. I'm just so happy you're ok." He could see the protest across Ivar's face. "Save it. Don't strain yourself. Your mom and brothers are outside, waiting to see you."

Ivar held his arms out in front of him in a motion to hug Alex, as his arms shook from under use. Alex couldn't believe those were the same arms that had pushed the nurses and doctors away, causing such a mess in the room. He smiled as he happily accepted Ivar's invitation and bent down to finally hug his love, his everything, his very reason for breathing.

Nothing had ever felt more right to either one of them. Ivar snuggled into the nape of Alex's neck, burying his face there as Alex sighed with relief. Ivar's entire body trembled, and he tightened his arms as best he could, holding Alex as close to him as possible.

It wasn't until Alex felt the wetness on his neck that he realized Ivar wasn't trembling because of any weakness. It was then that he heard a light mumble, "I-I'm," Ivar coughed, "I'm so sorry. I'm sorry, Love."

Alex placed one hand behind Ivar's neck and the other still wrapped around his waist and back, holding him firmly. "Shhh. You have nothing to be sorry for." He brushed his hand through Ivar's hair as Ivar's tense body slowly dissolved into him, clearly worn out from all he'd been through.

Alex slowly guided him to lay back onto the bed, hoping for him to finally find some rest, when suddenly, the door to Ivar's room sprang open.

Alex looked to find Aslaug standing in front of Hvitserk, who was looking at him with apologetic eyes. "I'm so sorry, but I couldn't wait to see my son any longer. I need to see that he's ok." She rushed to Ivar's side, swooping down to hug and kiss him. "Oh my God. Dear, are you ok?"

He weakly smiled at her, happy to see her as his eyes watered more. Feeling protective of Ivar, Alex told her, "He did great, but his throat is a little sore. He can't really talk all that well just yet. The doctor said he needs to rest." Alex held his breath, not sure how Aslaug would respond to him.

She looked up to Alex, "Oh, of course, Sweetheart. I just had to see him first." She reached over and grabbed Alex's hand. "Thank you. Thank you for being here for my baby." Ivar smiled lovenly at the two of them, as Alex breathed a sigh of relief and shock.

Looking back to Ivar, she said, "Dear, I can't tell you how happy I, well, we are to see you. You really gave us a scare." Rubbing his cheek, she leaned down and kissed his forehead. "I'm going to go back out to the waiting room so you can get some rest, but please have Alex come get me if you need me for anything, anything at all. Ok?"

Ivar mouthed the words, "Ok. I love you," as he gently smiled.

Giving him a quick kiss on his cheek, she said, "I love you, too, Dear. So much." She turned away from him as she began to cry again, and he reached out and grabbed her hand. She turned back around him, and he winked at her, making her smile through her tears. Alex came around the bed and hugged her, so relieved she'd made this easier than he'd expected.

As she went out, Ivar's brothers came in together. He smiled widely at them. "Always determined to be the hardheaded one of us, right, little brother? Anything for just a little bit of attention," Hvitserk teased him.

He walked over and patted his shoulder with a cheesy grin. "Damn glad to see you, man. I knew you were too stubborn to let this get you and that you'd pull through it," he smiled as Ubbe and Sigurd came over and joined them. They exchanged their hellos and well wishes, and all three of them left almost as quickly as they'd came in, deciding ahead of time that they'd discuss what had landed Ivar in there to begin with a bit later.

Alex had felt a bit relieved that they'd told him Katia had already left for a doctor appointment she had. He wasn't sure if that was stress Ivar needed at the moment, although, he was disappointed that he hadn't been able to see Ivy.

Now, Alex sat watching Ivar finally sleep. He was still holding his hand, the reassurance Ivar needed to actually close his eyes and give in to his exhaustion. It wasn't until he placed his other hand over Ivar's heart and felt the steady rhythm of his, now, strong heartbeat, that he realized just how tired he was, too. He laid his forehead down on his arm just beside Ivar and before he knew it, he was sleeping, too.

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A bit later, the nurse came in to check on Ivar and reconnect everything he'd ripped off of himself earlier. "Hey, guys, I'll be quick, but I have..." her voice trailed off as she looked over to Ivar's bed. There, she saw Alex laying in the bed with him, snuggled up to him at his left side. His head laid on Ivar's shoulder with Ivar's left arm wrapped tightly around him and Alex's left arm draped over Ivar, his hand resting over Ivar's chest.

She stopped in her tracks for a moment, admiring the sweet, peaceful scene before her, before deciding everything she needed to do could wait. She couldn't bring herself to disturb them knowing everything they'd been though these last few weeks. She leaned down and gently pulled the blanket up over them, Ivar seemingly snuggling into it, and lowered the lights as she turned on her heels to head out of the room.

As she nearly reached the door, it opened, and Aslaug walked in. Before the nurse could warn her, Aslaug was already talking, "Boys, I just came to let you know that I'm going to head out and," she then saw them and looked back at the nurse who simply shrugged and darted out the door. Her heart warmed at the perfect scene of love displayed before her, as if painted on the most beautiful canvas.

Having heard his mom's voice, Ivar stirred awake a little, his eyes fluttering open, sleep still very evident in his expression. Aslaug leaned over to him, kissing his forehead, "Shhh, I didn't mean to disturb you, Dear," she whispered. "I just wanted to tell you that I'm leaving and will be back in the morning." She lovenly brushed hair from his face as she looked over to Alex and smiled. "He really does love you, you know?"

Ivar grinned sleepily at her. "I'm happy you have him. You deserve this, Dear." Ivar squeezed him and kissed him on top of his head before nodding to her, noticing her wet eyes. After she was sure they didn't need anything, she left them to their much needed rest.

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The morning seemed to come quicker than Ivar and Alex would have preferred. As the sun peeped through the hospital room blinds, Alex lazily rubbed his eyes. It was a minute before he realized where he was, looking up to see Ivar smiling at him, already awake, watching his every move. Since when did Ivar wake up before him?

His voice and throat still a little scratchy, Ivar wet his lips with his tongue and softly mumbled, "Good morning, sunshine."

Alex quickly raised straight up, "Oh shit! I'm sorry! How did I get here in the bed with you? Oh my God! Are you ok?"

He started to get up, but Ivar grabbed him by the arm, "No," and pulled him back to his side. "You were sleeping with your head laying on," he began coughing, and Alex quickly reached back and grabbed the water bottle for him and held it for him to sip some water through the straw. He swallowed audibly and then said, "Thanks, Love. Your head was laying on the side of the bed, and I needed you up here with me. Besides, you looked really uncomfortable." Alex's cheeks flushed. "So, don't get up. Don't leave me."

Alex gave him a quick kiss and hugged him tightly, relieved that he hadn't hurt him.

The day was a long one. There were several tests to be done to see what the plan of action would be for Ivar and where he was on his way to recovery. Just as soon as Alex had gotten comfortable with Ivar again, nurses came to take him for the first test.

After everything was done, it turned out that he would need at least one, possibly two, more skin graft surgeries on his right leg and some intense physical therapy if he wanted to be able to walk again. Infection had also set up in his leg, to make matters worse, and they planned to start him on very strong medication for it immediately.

Ivar was not thrilled with what he'd learned. Still with a hoarse voice, he took a deep breath and asked, "So, what, exactly, are you saying, Doctor? Are you saying I will never be able to walk again?"

"No, that's not what I'm saying," the doctor rubbed his head. "Well, actually, there's no guarantee, Son, if I'm being honest." Alex gasped. "You've suffered some serious injuries and quite frankly, you're lucky to still be alive at all. Everything depends on how well you respond to your therapy, how hard you work, and how quickly the medication turns this nasty infection around for you."

Ivar was trembling at his words. With gritted teeth and his jaw clinched shut, Ivar asked, "Ho-how bad is the infection?"

The doctor looked away from him, and Ivar growled, "How bad?"

Placing his hand on Ivar's shoulder, the doctor softly said, "Son, I'm sorry to tell you this, but if the medication doesn't do it's job, and fast, umm," he glanced at Alex, who was holding Ivar's hand and looking down at the floor, "Well, it could be possible we'd have to amputate your leg up to your thigh."

Ivar shook his his head as the tears flowed silently from his eyes uncontrollably. "Nu-no! NO!"

The doctor continued, "That's the worst case scenario right now, though, ok? There's nothing that indicates that will be the case, but I just can't lie to you. You need to know all of the possibilities."

"Right now, let's just focus on getting the physical therapy stared, and once we know that the medication is doing it's job, we'll release you and let you continue physical therapy from home. I've seen your determination, Son, refusing to stop breathing, and I believe you can still turn this whole thing around."

Ivar was stunned as he looked at Alex, who was obviously feeling the exact same way. "When," he began coughing, and Alex quickly handed him the water bottle to drink from, "Wh-when will I begin with everything?"

"The nurse is getting the medication ready as we speak, and physical therapy will begin tomorrow afternoon. If everything seems to go well with the medication over night, we'll do the first skin graft first thing tomorrow morning."

Ivar gulped and dropped his head. The doctor turned toward the door, "I know I've unloaded a lot of information on you. My apologies. I'll give you time, because I know you need to process. I'll leave you to it and see you tomorrow."

He left the two of them lost in their thoughts. It was several minutes before Alex finally placed his hand on Ivar's shoulder. "Ivar, don't worry. I'm sure you're going to be fine. You're strong and," he began.

Ivar pulled away from his touch, "Don't."

Alex looked at him, surprised, "Wh-what?"

"Just don't. You can't always save me, Alex. You heard the man. Shit sounds pretty grim for me," Ivar coughed.

Alex tried to understand Ivar's anger as he took a deep breath. "Come on. Don't give up already, Ivar. We don't know..."

"Yes, we do. Anytime anything begins to go my way, it ends badly. It's just my luck. I've accepted it."

Alex frowned and just decided he wouldn't say anything else. He didn't want to be the focus of Ivar's anger. Afterall, he did understand his discouragement, and he knew he was just worried. He sat down, and simply waited for the nurse to bring the medication, trying his best to conceal his own worry and concern. He was still relieved that Ivar had awoken from a coma and hadn't quite swallowed, yet, all of the complications that was ahead of him.

The nurse finally came in. "For the first round of medication, I need to inject it directly into your IV and give you pills as well. And Mr. Lothbrok," she hesitated, looking nervous, "Umm, you need a very aggressive form of treatment for this infection so umm, I, umm..."

"Oh, get on with it already!" Ivar growled, trying to ignore his sore throat.

She continued, "I'm sorry to tell you, but the injection is strong. It will hurt and burn, but it's necessary. I would never intentionally hurt you." She swallowed nervously. She gave him the pills first, and he grumpily took them with water. Looking at Alex apologetically, she then injected the medication. Alex leaned up and grabbed Ivar's hand.

Ivar looked at her angrily and waved her out of the room dismissively. He knew it wasn't her fault and didn't want to lash out at her, but he also knew how fed up he already was with everything.

He took a deep breath and looked over to Alex. In those deep blue eyes, he saw the patience to move mountains, love unwavering, his life, his everything, but he also saw great worry and concern. He knew Alex was worried for him, and he felt guilty for putting him through this. Alex deserved better.

And what if he never regained his ability to walk again or even worse, if he had to have his leg amputated? That was a tremendous burden to put on anyone. He knew it was too much to ask of Alex. He'd rather end things with him than let him waste his life taking care of the cripple. He didn't want Alex to grow to resent him, and decided right then and there that should it come to that, he'd end it all, no matter how it broke his own heart. He absolutely would not let Alex play his live in nurse.

He suddenly felt a burning sensation climbing up his arm. It was as if his veins were on fire and were cooking him inside out. He squeezed Alex's hand and the sheets of the bed as his head bent back on the pillow. He closed his eyes tightly. That nurse wasn't kidding, his entire body hurt as the medication spread!

He finally let out a deep breath and released Alex's hand. He sat for a moment, realizing this wasn't the worst pain he'd felt in his life even though it was certainly one of the top five, at least, and took a deep breath, trying to steady himself.

Just as he was about to apologize to Alex for being an ass, another nurse came in and told him that the very first dose of medication was actually in two separate injections since it's so strong, but the first nurse hadn't known that and was now too worried to come back in.

He felt a wave of guilt, but he didn't have time to process it before the nurse was already at the side of his bed preparing the second injection. Hesitating, she said, "Let me look at you. I need to be sure you haven't had any kind of reaction before I give you the second round. I'm sorry, Mr. Loth..."

"Spare me the fucking sympathy, and just give me the damn injection. You guys are torturing me," Ivar growled at her, coughing uncontrollably. She tried to give him aome water, but he batted her hand away.

Ignoring his anger and attitude, and after she was sure the first round hadn't disagreed with him other than the pain, which Ivar was sure to remind her of, she began the second injection. Alex instantly went to grab Ivar's hand, but he pushed him back and wrapped his hand in the sheets instead. He gritted his teeth together as he felt the medication begin it's slow crawl through his veins.

Ivar leaned forward, and with a loud growl, he swiped his hand over the bedside table and cleared it with one sweep, everything shattering to the floor, "FUCK!" The nurse's eyes widened, and Alex jumped to his feet.

"Ivar, she's just doing her job. Come on. She's trying to help you," Alex said, rushing to the other side of the bed to begin picking stuff up from the floor with the nurse. "I'm so sorry," he mumbled to her.

"It's ok. I'm used to it. It kinda comes with the job, ya know?" she gently smiled at him.

She explained to Alex that Ivar would probably sleep for most of the rest of the day. "That's how the medicine can do it's job best, so don't worry, but call if you need anything, ok?" He nodded to her as she left the room.

When Alex turned back to Ivar, he instantly knew he was trying his best to deal with the pain without lashing out. Again. Alex felt helpless. He hated seeing him like this, but he knew he couldn't do anything but be there with him.

He walked back over to his chair and sat down without saying a word, trying not to give Ivar any reason to act on the pain and anger he was very obviously feeling. Ivar turned to him quizzically. "What?" Alex asked, mentally preparing himself for the next battle.

"Why? Why have you always stayed by my side, Alex?" Ivar asked almost in a whisper. "Even when we were kids, you were always there for me, most of the time, when I didn't even deserve it." He cleared his throat. "Kind of like right now."

"You seriously have to ask?" Alex wasn't sure what he was getting at, but his tone made him nervous.

"Yes. I want to hear it."

"Because I love you, Ivar." Alex dropped his head as he continued, "And I guess, in one way or another, I always have."

Ivar reached his hand out for Alex's, and Alex hesitantly gave it to him. Pulling his hand to his lips, he kissed his knuckles. "I can't keep saying I'm sorry and just expect you to keep staying," he took a deep breath, "But I also know that when my anger takes ahold of me, there's no telling what I might do or say. And I don't want you to be the one catching it all, Alex. It's not right. You, you don't deserve to be treated like this, especially when you're the one who has always been here for me."

He dropped Alex's hand and covered his face in shame. How could he continue to be so awful and yet, Alex continued to remain there with him? He couldn't believe he hadn't already left.

Alex rolled his eyes. "I refuse to listen to you right now, Ivar. We're not making major decisions about our relationship while you're laying there in bed in such pain. So you may as well just drop it," he sighed. "And you haven't really treated me any kind of bad way, Ivar. You just have a lot on you right now. I know we'll probably have this conversation again, and everytime we do, I'm going to tell you the same thing. I'm not leaving. Period. You need your rest. Tomorrow is a big day, so just stop worrying about it."

Ivar was taken back by Alex's assertiveness and refusal to listen to him. Had he not been in the shape he was, he would have put up a fight, but as much as he hated to admit it, Alex was right about one thing. He needed to rest. He felt sleep creeping into his body, and even though he wanted to fight it, his eyes grew too heavy.

He held his hand open toward Alex and Alex placed his hand in it, gripping it tightly. As Ivar began to apologize, the medication took control, and he fell into a deep sleep.

Alex smiled, despite himself, and sat back down. He knew the exact reason Ivar was so angry was because he was worried, not because he was actually angry, and he understood. During the last day, he had been through a lot. He knew he was going to be on this roller-coaster for a while, and he knew he'd still be there for it all.

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The next morning was already there before Alex had realized he'd, too, fallen asleep. As he got up from the chair he'd slept in, his body knew he'd been sleeping, though. Looking at Ivar sleeping, he thought of the calm before the storm for he knew they'd be in for him within minutes to take him to surgery.

Reluctantly, he leaned over and gently tapped Ivar's shoulder, "Ivar, hey. It's time to wake up. They'll be here to take you to surgery soon."

Stretching, it took Ivar a minute to realize where he was. For what it was worth, the medicine he'd been given at least helped him sleep well. He looked at the clock and then said, "Damn it."

"Good morning to you, too," Alex smiled.

Ivar asked for a drink of water, but Alex reminded him that he was about to go for the skin grafting and couldn't eat or drink. He watched as the snarl returned to Ivar's face. "Hey, this is going to help you. Please let them do their job."

At that moment, the door opened, and nurses came in to take him for surgery. Surprisenly, Ivar didn't say a word. As they began to roll him out, he asked them to stop and looked back at Alex. "Umm, will you, uh, are you leaving now?" He dropped his head. He knew that's exactly what he deserved, to come back to find that Alex had finally left the room or even the hospital.

Alex rushed over to him and leaned down to kiss him on his forehead. "No. I'm not going anywhere, Ivar. Not, umm," he gulped, "Not unless you want me to?"

Ivar immediately felt relieved. "No. I'd really appreciate it if you would still be here. I'm sorry," he sighed, "For everything."

"Shhh," Alex kissed him on top of the head again and let the nurses take him. It was difficult to remember the other times he'd seen Ivar just like this. Ivar had always been one to react with anger anytime he was scared or hurt. It was his immediate go to defense. He didn't like showing vulnerability like this. Alex knew he shouldn't take it personally, but it sure was easier said than done sometimes.

While Ivar was gone to surgery, Alex spoke with Aslaug, who had come to check on him. She informed Alex that they'd been having problems with Ivy at home. Apparently, she'd been crying uncontrollably for Ivar. They decided that it would be best to bring her to visit Ivar just as soon as he was able to visit with her.

As she prepared to leave, she told Alex, "Please let me know how he is as soon as he's out of surgery. I'm actually going to watch Ivy so that Katia can go to the doctor herself."

"Is she ok?" Alex asked, concerned.

"She said it's just a follow up on how she's doing with her therapy. No need to worry. You have enough on your plate right now, Dear."

Alex nodded as she stood and hugged him. "Let Ivar know I stopped by."

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Over the course of the next few weeks, Ivar had been nearly unbearable. He was angry and upset with anyone and everyone. So much so that Alex had resorted to either sitting in the room with Ivar and not saying a word to him or watching afar from his own room and out of Ivar's line of fire.

The skin graft surgery had went well and luckily, they hadn't had to do more than one. Ivar was still taking strong medication for infection and to help him heal. He had learned he'd need one of those strong injections once a week for the next month. No doubt, those days were the worst.

His family had come to visit, but he usually didn't talk much to any of them, thinking it better to be quiet. He wasn't trying to find himself completely alone.

Knowing the extra, unneeded stress it would cause, his brothers had decided to hold the information about the Finehair brothers being responsible for everything until he was home and things were a little more close to his normal instead of their previous intentions of telling him much sooner.

The couple of times Katia had brought Ivy were the better days. Although, he hadn't had much to say to Katia, he'd work extra hard not to scare Ivy by being his angry self, but it proved to be extremely difficult for him, asking more than once for Alex to remove her from the room. The hardest part was always seeing Ivy cry uncontrollably each time she had to leave. Ivar was only able to calm her by saying he'd see her again the next day. Each time, after she left, Ivar was more distant but but a bit sweeter. Alex held onto those sweet moments with Ivy, though, because it was nearly the only time he'd see the loving man he knew Ivar to be.

They had started with physical therapy and brought Ivar a wheelchair to get to and from the physical therapy room. He'd immediately refused to use it and threw his breakfast plate at the wall the first morning they brought it in. It wasn't until the doctor reminded him that if he didn't get to physical therapy, he'd surely remain bedridden for the rest of his life, that he gave in and decided to use it, grumbling the entire time and each time after.

It was only in the late nights, when Ivar was spent and actually had the time to think of his own actions from the day, that he would try talking to Alex, an attempt to apologize, and was more like himself. "Alex, umm, I-I'm ashamed of how I've been treating you, how I've been acting. I don't know why you stay with me."

Alex slid his chair closer to the side of Ivar's bed and gently grabbed his hand. "I understand why you get so upset, Ivar. I know how incredibly difficult it is for you to need to depend on everyone around you. It's ok."

Ivar dropped his head back on the pillow and looked up at the ceiling. "No, Alex, it's not. It's not okay. You deserve better. You're the one who has always been there for me, you've never left me, and this is how I treat you? No, it's not right."

Leaning forward, Alex became nervous, "We've discussed this. I'm not letting you push me away. What are you saying, Ivar? Wh-what do you mean?"

Ivar closed his eyes, "That you should leave. You should leave me, Alex. I'm not going to get any better. I am a miserable person to be around, and I know that, but I can't control my anger." He took a deep breath, "I don't want to take it all out on you, and I'm afraid I will. For fuck's sake, I have been already. I can't walk. Fuck knows what else I can't do, and you don't deserve to sit around and wait when you could be out there, living your life. How long has it even been since you've been to class? You need to just leave." He pulled his hand out of Alex's and wrapped it around his own chest, an attempt at holding himself together, and sighed in defeat.

Ivar's words gripped Alex's heart and squeezed so tightly that he thought it would split and gape open. He took a deep breath as he stared at Ivar, trying to assess if he really desired to be left alone and single again, or if he was just trying to be selfless. Did he really want him to leave?

Bracing himself for backlash, Alex took another deep breath and asked, "Ivar, do you still love me?"

Ivar's eyes spang open, "What? You know the answer to that."

"I need to hear you answer me."

Sighing, Ivar said with a small voice, "Yes, of course I do."

Alex felt a wave of relief as he said, "Then fuck you!"

"What?"

"You heard me. Fuck you! Fuck you for trying to push me away. Fuck you for trying to make this have anything, at all, to do with my classes. I'm taking them online! Fuck you for giving up on us. Fuck you for thinking I could ever be better off without you and that I'd just simply walk away that easily just because you said so," Alex wiped his eyes.

"After all this time sitting with you, hoping and praying you'd come back to me, I finally get you, and then you're just going to quit? No! I refuse to let you just give up. On yourself, on me, on us. No! You can do this! I know you can. And if it turns out that I'm wrong and you can't, then so be it. We'll cross that bridge when we come to it, and we'll find our way to make it work. Together."

"My love for you isn't contingent on whether or not you can walk. Sure, I want you to, because you want to, but Ivar," Alex cupped Ivar's cheek, "I love you for the man you are, regardless of how your legs do or don't work. Now, stop feeling sorry for yourself, stop being an ass to all of these nurses who are just trying to help you, and try your best in therapy so you'll get better. No more pitty parties!"

Ivar was overcome with emotions, and as Alex started to say more, Ivar caught his words on his mouth, lips covering Alex's in a soft, passionate kiss, threatening to steal Alex's last breath. As he attempted to pull Alex closer to him, Alex fell onto the bed, on top of Ivar with a thud. They both gulped.

"Oh shit! I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to hurt you, Ivar. Are you ok? I-I'm so sor..."

Ivar kissed him again as his arms wrapped tightly around Alex's waist. As they pulled slightly away from each other for air, Ivar whispered, "I-I'm so sorry, Love. I, umm, I just realized how much I've missed you." He pulled Alex closer, still, and deepened the kiss.

Their lips were moving in familiar movements in no time, muscle memory taking over, as they both seemed to forget about anything and everything happening around them. Alex's hand tangled in Ivar's hair, and Ivar groaned.

As the kiss grew even more heated, so did Ivar's desire. Feeling Alex's growing buldge against his own hip, he involuntarily bucked his hips. Alex's eyes sprung open as he pulled away from their delicious kiss again. Breathlessly, he said, "Oh shit, Ivar! I-I'm sorry. I didn't mean to," he blushed. "I know you're in pain and I, umm, shit! I just can't help it. You're just still so hot."

To Alex's surprise, Ivar laughed. "Shhh. Come here." He pulled Alex back to him and began kissing the life out of him. They quickly began panting, hands roaming all over each other as if they were exploring new territory, chests heaving, and desire becoming overwhelming. Ivar reached his hand between them, palming Alex's buldge over his sweats. He slipped his hand inside the waist band, and as he reached Alex's pulsating member, Alex gulped, "Ivar! Wh, uh no! We can't."

Ivar smiled at him, "Yes! Tell me you don't want it, too." Alex couldn't deny Ivar's words. He quickly dissolved into Ivar as Ivar wrapped his hand around Alex's shaft and began to slowly move it along his length. Alex thought the hospital room was probably not the best setting for such intimate acts, but he couldn't bring himself to stop Ivar and pull away.

As Alex's hands began to roam over Ivar's body, he slowly let his left hand find Ivar's waist line of his hospital pants. Without warning, he dipped his hand inside them to grab Ivar as well. To both of their surprise, Ivar wasn't even hard. He quickly pulled away from Alex and looked down at himself. "Wh-what is happening? I am. I mean, I know it's just. What's wrong with me?" He stumbled over his words, "I, umm, I want you so badly. I do. I just can't. I can't explain this." He instantly removed his hand from Alex's pants and planted his face in his hands as his cheeks flushed bright red.

Alex placed his hand over Ivar's as he softly spoke, "Ivar, it's ok. Look at me. That's not important right now."

Ivar jerked his hand away from Alex's as he turned his head away from him. "I wish I would have just died," he mumbled.

The mood of the room totally shifting, Alex got off of the bed and stood beside it. "What did you just say?" he asked in disbelief. "Because I know I didn't just hear you correctly."

Ivar glanced back at him, the snarl across his face softening as he saw Alex's hurt expression. "I, uh. Nothing works. I'm broken. I'm not," he exhaled heavily, "I'm not a complete man, Alex. I should have just..."

"Don't you dare say it!" Alex growled through a clinched jaw. "How dare you wish such a terrible thing when you have so much to live for. What about Ivy? What about your mom or you brothers? What about me? Am I not worth you living?"

Ivar started to answer him, but he interrupted him, "Wait! I'm not finished. I know this hurts you, Ivar. I get that you feel less of a man, but I'm sure it's just a combination of everything your body is going through. You're way too stressed. You need to rest. You're on a lot of medication. All of these things play a part in how your body works. There's no reason to get so upset about it that you say such ridiculous things."

"I'm tired of it, Ivar, and I refuse to let you give up on yourself and expect me to do the same and just let you push me away. We can talk to the doctor tomorrow and see what he says. Until then, I don't want to hear anything else even remotely close to your angry, self loathing comments. Do you understand? Are we clear?"

Ivar stared blankly at Alex with a loss for words. Alex hadn't spoken to him that way in years. "I said, are we clear?"

"But I can't. How do I? I mean. It just keeps getting worse," Ivar hung his head down in shame.

Taking a moment to breathe, Alex finally placed his hand under Ivar's chin and pulled it up to look him in the eyes. Locking his gaze with Ivar's, Alex softly said, "These things don't matter right now, Ivar. I'll tell you what would have been worse, Ivar. Losing you. Waking up everyday for the rest of my life without you here with me, not having someone to share the beautiful things in life with, watching Ivy grow up without her wonderful father. That would have been worse. I don't know what it's going to take for you to snap out of it and realize what you still have, but this is definitely not the worst that could have been."

He sat back down and lowered his gaze to the floor, fighting tears he was tired of shedding. He was worried for Ivar, but he was also hurt. He didn't like seeing him so unhappy with himself. Underneath all the anger and fear, he knew there was a gentle, loving soul, and he was determined to find him again, because he knew if he didn't soon, all that would be left was a lonely, miserable shell of a man, and he couldn't stand the thought of that as a reality.

Ivar didn't have a response. Alex had left him speechless. He hadn't stopped to think about what his condition was doing to him and the others he loved. And he knew his attitude wasn't making it any better. Could he do better? He knew Alex certainly deserved for him to try. He decided not to say anything, because he didn't want to break any promises, but he knew he had to try to find the positive and focus on that. He also knew that meant he had a lot of work to do.

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While Ivar had definitely done better with lashing out at everyone, he'd still had his moments when he just felt he could take no more and was in mid fight or flight mode before he'd even realize it. No matter how hard he tried, he could not see a valid reason for Alex to remain with him. The more he tried with therapy and failed, the more he felt useless and had become to hate himself. If he hated himself so much, how could Alex love him? He felt completely hopeless.

When doctors and nurses weren't in his room, a solemn silence had settled in between he and Alex, something he never thought he'd have to endure with him. They weren't cold or angry with each other, but more distant than he could ever remember them being before. He missed his love, his best friend, but he just didn't feel worthy of any of it.

He would watch Alex move around in the room, intentionally avoiding eye contact or anything that he thought may cause any conflict to arise. He'd noticed how Alex pretty much only spoke when he was spoken to or to offer his assistance when he was certain it was needed. They hadn't had a real conversation since that night when Ivar had discovered his issue, and they certainly hadn't spoken about that again.

He'd see Alex do his school work on his laptop in the room next door to his and how quiet he was for it, an exact opposite of when he used to always discuss what he was working on, having such a love for history that he'd always share, hoping to spark an interest in Ivar as well.

He saw it all, how drastically their relationship had changed, how he'd ruined their vibrant love, and what was left of his already breaking heart practically crumbled. How horrible that he'd managed to dim Alex's bright light! It wasn't healthy for him to be so overly cautious just to prevent problems. That was how abusive relationships were. Was he abusive? It hadn't been his intentions to have such an effect on Alex, but now he wasn't sure how to make things right. How could he take away the sadness that Alex obviously felt when he, too, felt the same way?

He'd, at least, finally been doing better with the physical therapy, and he had even gained movement in his toes. The doctor had said that was promising news, but he hadn't even told Alex about it because he was sure Alex wasn't in the mood to celebrate something so small. Plus, he didn't want to give him false hope of him getting to complete recovery when he, himself, felt sure that was never going to be the case. He wasn't sure how much longer he could let Alex waste his time by being with him. He ached at the realization of what had now become his reality.

All he really wanted was to just hold Alex, to feel his arms wrapped tightly around him, but he knew that wasn't possible at the moment. As he growled in frustration, Alex looked up from his book. Hesitantly, Alex asked, "Do you need something for pain? I can call the..."

"No! Everything isn't about my fucking leg, you know," Ivar automatically snapped before he'd even realized what he'd done. Once he saw the immense sadness creep into Alex's expression, he began, "Oh, Alex, I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to..."

Standing up and dropping his book in the seat, feeling completely defeated, Alex said, "Save it."

"But I.."

Alex held his hand up toward Ivar, palm facing him, a sign for him to stop as he walked past the foot of the bed and toward the door.

Ivar's heart officially broke from his chest and slid to the floor. What had he done?

As Alex approached the door, it swung open, "Well, if it isn't my two favorite fruit cakes! How the hell are you, boys? Or? It's not girls now, is it?" he laughed.

"Floki!" Alex exclaimed, rolling his eyes and crashing into his arms.

Ivar actually smiled a genuine smile as he said, "You dirty, old bastard. Where have you been?" He hoped Floki hadn't heard his and Alex's unpleasant exchange.

"I'm so sorry I haven't been here, guys. You know me, I've been out exploring the world. I was living in a tent in the mountains for the last few months, completely off the grid, until I finally decided to come home for a change of scenery. I came as quickly as I could after hearing all the desperate voicemails your family has left me." He walked to Ivar's bedside and bent down to hug him, "At the risk of sounding too sentimental, I sure am happy you pulled through your frightening coma, boy. I don't know what I would have done if we would have lost you."

"Hell, you wouldn't have known any difference. You're never here to know if I'm alive or dead anyway." Floki was about to tease Ivar futher, but upon looking at his snarl, he realized he was serious, and there was a clear bile to his statement.

He looked back to Alex who only shrugged his shoulders in defeat, dropping his head, and said, "I need some air. I'll leave you two alone to catch up, and I'll be back in a bit." Not waiting for either to reply, he left the room.

Floki turned back to Ivar, "You'd best get to talking, boy. What the hell was that about?"

Rolling his eyes, Ivar answered, "Who knows? I guess you better ask him if you really wanna know."

Floki pulled one of the chairs up beside the bed and sat down in it. "No, I'd really like to hear it from you, you miserable ass. What did you do to that boy? He loves you, and what I just saw was a very defeated and broken young man full of pain."

Ivar huffed and answered sarcastically, "Yeah, sure. He's the fucking broken one who's feeling all the pain. Ok, whatever. And I'm so sure you can tell from one sentence what his feelings are for me."

Knowing Ivar as well as the back of his own hand, it only took a minute to understand what was going on here. He'd been the closest thing to an uncle that Ivar had known growing up, and he'd spent a lot of time with him over the years, which also meant he'd spent a lot of time with Alex as well, since they had practically been inseparable when they were younger. "Ivar, that boy has loved you since you guys were just kids. It's a shame, actually, that it took you so long to figure it out. He'd take a damn bullet for you. Don't you know that?"

Ivar hesitated, his eyes widening, and ran his hand down his face, sighing deeply, before he finally asked, "How, umm, how could you possibly know that?"

"Well, for starters, I'm not blind, but don't you remember all those times the two of you came over and spent so much time at the house with my Helga and I?" Floki placed his hand over his heart as he mentioned Helga. "I sure do miss her."

"Me too," Ivar held his hand out to Floki and placed it in his.

"You two practically spent the entire summers with us. Well, she first brought it to my attention, and I, of course, laughed at her, but as I began to pay more attention, I realized she was right. Even Ragnar knew it, boy." Ivar gasped, and Floki laughed his signature giggle. "But it wasn't until your father's death that I realized that you loved him as well."

"What? How? I didn't. Umm, I mean. I never even."

"You always have been the hard headed one of the family." Floki smiled. "It sure did take you long enough to finally accept it, and stop fighting it. I only wished your father could have seen it, too. He always hoped you'd come to terms with it and if not end up with Alex, at least end up with someone who loves you like he does."

Surprised, Ivar asked, "He didn't have a problem with the thought of me being with another man?"

"On the contrary. He just wanted you to finally find someone who'd do right by you and who'd love you the way you deserved." Ivar couldn't believe what he'd was hearing.

"He'd be so proud, but look at you, now. Having this second chance at life and this opportunity to experience the kind of great love that only comes around once in a lifetime, and here you are, just pissing it all away like it's some luxury that everyone gets to partake in."

Not saying a word, Ivar seemed to be taking everything Floki had said to heart. He really did feel bad, but how could he fix that now?

Floki continued, "I was so overjoyed when I heard that you and Alex were finally giving it a go. He's the type that won't leave your side, even when he should, and I can tell from the tension in this room, that now is a time when he should. Talk to me, boy. What's going on?"

"I've, I, umm, I'm afraid I've fucked it all up, Floki." Ivar explained everything to Floki. For some reason, he'd always felt comfortable telling Floki anything. He was the one person he knew that wouldn't go anywhere after whatever madness he'd share with him. Then, he suddenly realized that he had that same thing with Alex, and he felt so ashamed. "How'd we get here, Floki?"

"It's not too late, boy. You only have to swallow your pride, and talk to him. He'll listen. Do you know what I'd give to be able to still talk to Helga, to tell her how much she means to me, how much she's always meant to me? Don't waste the time you have, the second chance you've been given. Talk to him, you idiot!"

Ivar then thought of what had truly become an issue for him and made him so hateful and angry, and truth be told, what made him the most embarrassed and loathe himself like never before. Could he tell Floki something that personal? Could he tell him he was not capable of the simplest act, the one thing that he used to do so well, that he wasn't even a real man anymore?

Leaning forward to Floki and placing his head on his chest, he began to fall apart. "Floki, I, uh, can't, I, my heart is broken. Fuck! I am broken."

Floki silently placed his arm around Ivar and waited for him to explain himself. He held Ivar as he spilled his heart out to him.

Never looking up into Floki's eyes, ashamed of himself for his incapabilities and how he'd been acting, he told Floki everything. "I've never hurt so badly, Floki, and it doesn't even have anything to do with my damn leg. That's just the icing on the cake. I can handle the physical pain. It's the torture of knowing I can't satisfy Alex anymore, of watching him hang around here everyday and knowing he's just wasting his time with me. I've done things, said things that I'm not proud of, that I know he can never forgive me for. I'm just a miserable, useless fuck up who can't walk and who can't fuck. What good am I at all to him or to anyone?"

Floki rubbed his back, trying to comfort him. When Ivar finally sat up and looked at him, Floki asked, "Have you asked him to forgive you, Ivar? How can you be so sure he won't? He wouldn't still be here if believed you weren't worth it, if he didn't truly love you. How can you decide for him, humm? Don't you think that's his decision?"

Wiping his face with the back of his hands, Ivar said, "Why would he?"

"Let me ask you this, would you forgive him if the tables were turned? Would you suddenly think he was a loser because he couldn't walk or because he couldn't get hard here in the middle of a damn hospital?" Smiling, Floki shook his head at the thought of them being so hot for each other that they were making out during the current situation.

"Of course, not. And of course, I'd forgive him."

"Then what makes you think he doesn't feel the same? Why would you think your love is so superior to his? You're missing the point. You just need to tell him how you feel and what's been bothering you. Talk to him. Simple as that."

"And if he's super mad, still?"

* "Well, if you want peace, first, you must prepare for war," * Floki smiled. "And as far as your other issue goes, what did the doctor say?"

Turning bright red, Ivar dropped his head and only shrugged.

Floki looked at him in disbelief, "You did talk to the doctor, didn't you?"

"Umm, well, not exactly. That's embarrassing. I'm surprised I even told you."

"And I take it Alex didn't either?"

"Not if he knows what's good for him," Ivar snarled.

Rolling his eyes, Floki said, "You know what? You're both idiots! You're here worrying yourself sick over something, that may not even be permanent, to the point that the two of you aren't speaking to each other, when all you had to do was talk to the doctor and get some solid information. I just can't even believe you." Floki dropped his head to his hands. "Do I have to do everything around here? How have you even survived this far without me?"

Floki stood up. "Wait. What are you doing? Where are you going?" Ivar asked him in a panic.

"To find your doctor and get to the bottom of this," Floki answered as if it was the most obvious thing.

Ivar sat up in bed, staring him down, and practically growled at him, "Don't you fucking dare!'

Floki took a step back, just out of Ivar's reach. "Yeah? And what is the cripple going to do to stop me? Humm? Floki smirked. "Are you going to stand and chase after me?"

"Fuck you, crazy old man!"

Floki giggled, "You can't! Remember?" he laughed and then added, "Save that for you lover boy." And before Ivar could say another word, Floki turned and ran into Alex as he was coming back into the room.

As Floki left, Alex came in and sat in the chair he'd been reading in earlier. Not speaking to Ivar or even looking at him, he opened his book again. They sat like that, avoiding eye contact, in uncomfortable silence for a while before Ivar finally sighed and asked, "How much of that conversation did you hear?"

Slowly looking up from his book, Alex softly answered, "Umm, just the end of it."

"So?"

Alex shrugged, "So what?"

Ivar ran his hand through his hair, trying not to get aggravated, "So, what umm, what do you... You know what, nevermind."

Alex closed his book, placed it in his lap, and then looked sincerely into Ivar's eyes. He waited for a moment, seemingly in thought, before he finally said, "Talk to me, Ivar." Alex huffed and took a deep breath, preparing himself for whatever argument this was going to cause, but he knew they needed to talk. This hurt him way too much. "Please."

Ivar stared at him with an unreadable expression that made Alex nervous, but still, he persisted, "Please, Ivar. If we can't talk to each other, then who can we talk to? I don't, I mean, umm, I, I miss you." He dropped his head and stared at the floor. He knew it was useless. He wasn't even sure why he'd even tried. Ivar had made it clear he didn't want to talk. Maybe what he really wanted was for Alex to seriously leave.

With that thought burning in his mind, he made one more final attempt. If Ivar wanted him gone, he'd leave him. He would no longer stay there against Ivar's wishes. His voice small and quiet, Alex said, "Ivar, I, umm. I won't bother you by staying here anymore if that's what you want. For the record, I don't want to leave, but I know when I'm not wanted. Can you please talk to me? Just tell me what's on your mind. Please." He turned away from Ivar and wiped away his tears.

Ivar felt horrible. How could he have been so cruel that he'd made the one person he loved more than anything feel unwanted. He hated himself for it. So much so that part of him wanted to actually let Alex go. And maybe he would have had he not talked with Floki. Floki had always had a way of putting things into prospective.

"Alex," Ivar's voiced cracked. He swallowed audibly, "I-I'm, uh. Please. Please don't. Don't leave me." He hung his head in shame.

To Ivar's surprise, Alex actually stood and walked up to the side of Ivar's bed. With hesitation still in his voice, he said, "I won't. Not if you don't want me to. But Ivar?"

Ivar looked up at him with clear worry in his eyes. "Yes?"

"If I'm going to stay here, and with you, we have to stop the frighting. I hate it when you're mad with me. I-I'm sorry for everything."

Ivar reached his arms out for Alex and Alex, breathing a sigh of relief, practically fell into them. Ivar held him like that as he began finally saying everything he'd been holding in. "I'm not mad at you, Love. I've been mad with myself. I can't. I'm not able. Umm, well, you know, I'm not whole. And I, umm, I feel like I can't make you happy any longer, and that upsets me for you. It's not fair to you. Not to mention, on top of all of that, I also can't walk. What good am I to you? I don't want to be a burden. I don't want you to resent me. I-I'd rather, ugh. You know me, all of it comes out in anger. I know I've said it before, so many times, but I am truly sorry. You haven't deserved my wrath."

Shocked, Alex raised up and placed his hand on Ivar's cheek. Wiping his wet eyes, he said, "Oh, Ivar, you know, you really are the most stubborn man I know. I'm not concerned with what works or doesn't with your body. I just want you to be ok. There's more to life than just sex, you know. You don't know how terrible it was when I thought I'd lost you for good. I never want to feel like that again. What is important is that you're still alive, you still have your life, you're still here. What you make of it, is up to you, but if you're willing, I am, too. We can get through this and anything else as long as we're together."

Breathing a sigh of relief, breath that he hadn't realized he'd been holding, Ivar pulled him back into another tight hug and pulled so tightly that Alex lost his footing, causing him to topple over onto the bed. "Ivar, you've got to stop making me do this!" Alex laughed. "What if I hurt you?"

Ignoring him, Ivar pulled him into the bed beside him. "Just where I wanted you. This is where you belong." He kissed Alex on the head as warmth filled them both. This is what he'd longed for, Alex at his side, his arms wrapped tightly around him. Now, that he had it, he wasn't letting go. He'd been so stupid, and he knew he was truly lucky. He just didn't know what he'd done to deserve it.

Alex nuzzled into the nape of his neck, happy to finally be close to him again. Ivar had been right, this was definitely where he belonged.

A few moments later, Floki came through the door with the doctor shortly behind him. Alex sat up, looking between them and Ivar, confused. Floki grinned at the display in front of him.

Glaring at Floki, Ivar's face turned beight red. Angrily, he said, between gritted teeth, "You didn't really..."

Cutting him off, Floki said, "No, I didn't. You're going to, boy. I found the doctor and asked him if he'd come back to your room with me because you have something important you'd like to discuss with him."

"Is everything ok, Mr. Lothbrok? You're not in too much pain, are you? I can get a nurse to..."

"No," he said curtly, eyes boring into Floki, "I'm fine." Ivar rolled his eyes as he answered, confusing the doctor even more.

That was when Alex grasped what was happening. Instinctively, he grabbed Ivar's hand and gently squeezed. He was worried how Ivar was going to handle the uncomfortable situation that Floki had thrown him into. His body grew tense as he felt the tension in the room grow as well, and he waited for Ivar's backlash.

"I can't believe that you," he started at Floki, as he glanced over to an obviously very anxious Alex. Pausing, he took a deep breath and then looked back to Floki. He knew his intentions were good and that his heart was in the right place, but he couldn't help the overwhelming urge to smack that smirk right off of his face regardless of the slight possibility that he could actually be right.

Even still, for the first time since the night that he and Alex had found that his body had an additional problem, he seemed to feel a bit of hope. What if Floki was right, and it was only temporary? Could he possibly be that lucky? He knew having hope was a dangerous thing, but after just having spoken with Alex and not wanting to hurt him even more, he decided to at least talk to the doctor. He didn't expect to hear good news, but he thought it was at least worth a conversation.

Swallowing his pride and doing his best to ignore the embarrassment that came along with the sensitive subject, he attempted to mention his erection problem to the doctor. His cheeks immediately flushing bright red and his heartrate quickening, he cleared his throat as he looked down and began. "Umm, I, uh, well, we have discovered that umm, well," Ivar felt beads of sweat roll down his forehead as he looked to his hand in Alex's and squeezed. "So, Alex and I. Umm, you know that Alex and I are. We're together. And umm," he truly struggled to get his words out, feeling ashamed of his incapabilities.

The doctor listened intently, trying to understand what, exactly, Ivar was trying to say. "Well," Ivar finally continued, "It seems that. Well, my. Fuck!" He took a deep breath, and then, he suddenly blurted everything out, all at once, as quickly as he could. "It's not just that my damn leg doesn't work. Other parts of my body don't work either, and Floki, here, suggested it may just be temporary because of stress or medication or I don't know what. And he ran to get you to force me to ask you. So, I just wanted to know, is it normal that I can't get an erection?" He breathed out heavily and wiped his forehead with the back of his hand. He couldn't believe he'd just said all of that, but he was thankful it was over.

The doctor looked around the room, and trying to be as sensitive as he could, he said, "My apologies, Son. Unfortunately, that is one of the side effects of the very strong medication that you are on, not to mention all of the stress that your body has been under."

He placed his hand on Ivar's shoulder, an attempt to ease his concern. "I'm sorry I didn't mention it to you before, but," he looked between him and Alex, clearing his throat, "I assumed that it wouldn't be necessary during your stay here in the hospital," he coughed, trying not to grin at the now, very red Ivar. "Hopefully, by the time you're released, the injections will be finished, and it will be something the two of you won't have to even worry about at all."

Ivar nodded, not sure he felt relieved just yet. He glanced at Alex and then looked back to the doctor. His cheeks flushing bright red again, he asked, "So, you mean umm, I-I'm not broken? I mean, umm. This is just temporary? Are you sure?"

He stepped back and looked at Ivar's stiff posture and obvious worried expression. "Mr. Lothbrok?" Ivar sheepishly looked up to him. "I can assure you that this is just a normal side effect from your injections. It will soon be a thing of the past. And if, for any reason, your problem persists longer than two weeks once you're released to go home, call us, and we'll see what adjustments need to be made to your other medications. Ok?"

Finally breathing a bit eaaier, Ivar answered, his voice small, "Umm, thank you." The doctor patted him on the shoulder, and he said again, "Thank you, really."

Smiling warmly at Ivar, with his hand still on his shoulder, he softly squeezed and said, "You're welcome, Son. I understand this can make things, umm, well, a bit difficult for the time being, but it is only temporary. My apologies again for not disclosing the side effects with you before we started you on this treatment plan."

Once the doctor left the room, the mood in the room shifted. What had been dark and gloomy for days, weeks even, felt lighter, brighter.

Alex looked to Ivar who was fidgeting with his hands, cheeks still red, and head hanging down. He was visibaly embarrassed and maybe Alex saw a twinge of regret in his eyes as they finally looked up and caught his own. "I'm truly sorry, Love. I've been such an ass. I should've listened to you."

Alex squeezed his hand, wrapped his arms around Ivar, and leaned over, kissing his cheek. "Shhh. Now, you have something to look forward to," Alex grinned.

"And that's my que to leave," Floki giggled.

"Oh, Floki," Ivar began, "I suppose I owe you a huge thank you."

"Put it on my tab, boy. If I charged you for everytime I saved your ass, I'd be rich by now." Floki grinned, happy to see the two of them smiling. He motioned between the two of them, "I like this. This looks really good on you."

Ivar looked at Alex and back to Floki, brow raising, "What does?"

"Love, stupid. I'm happy you finally found true love. I was worried you'd end up married to someone who'd spend their life taking advantage of you, and I'm so thankful that you only gave her a child and not your name," he chuckled.

Ivar grinned, heart warming, at the thought of such a precious child coming from the broken relationship he'd had with Katia and how it became a good thing. He, too, was happy he didn't give Katia his name, but now, as he looked beside him, he wondered if Alex would ever want to take it.

He could see their future so clearly, should he decide to take that next serious step, filled with nothing but love and happiness, spending their time doting on their precious princess and one another, a life dedicated to each other. His heart warmed.

He glanced to Alex again, his eyes filled with love and his head in another place, and he pulled his hand up to his mouth and gently kissed it.

"Speaking of which," Floki interrupted Ivar's train of thought, "I'm on my way to Ubbe's to meet little Ivy, now. That's why I must leave you two." He stepped to the side of Ivar's bed. "How is it even possible that you have a little girl whom I've never met?"

"Good question, old man. Don't stay away so long," Ivar answered him.

"Oh, I plan to be here for a while, now. You'll be sick of me. You'll see." He leaned down and hugged Ivar, whispering in his ear, "Take good care of him. He's a keeper." He giggled and rubbed the top of Ivar's head as if he was still a little boy, Ivar rolling his eyes.

"Alex, whip his ass if he misbehaves. And umm," he looked down to Ivar as he grabbed Alex's hand and squeezed in an appreciative way, "Officially, welcome to the family. Finally." And with that he headed to the door.

"Hey," Ivar called behind him. Floki turned around. "Thank you, and don't scare my little girl." Smiling from ear to ear, feigning innocence, Floki waved his fingers to say goodbye and practically skipped out of the hospital room.

Silence settled in between Alex and Ivar, both lost in their own thoughts. It had truly been an eventful day, a bit of an emotional roller-coaster, leaving them both exhausted.

Snuggling into Ivar's side, Alex finally broke the silence. "So, Floki approves, humm?"

Ivar smiled, voice filled with pride, "He does." He pulled Alex closer to his side and pulled the blanket over them both. "And apparently, father did as well."

Alex looked up to him, "What? How?"

"Well, according to Floki, you've been in love with me since we were kids, just teens." He grinned his typical devilish grin at Alex. "And father didn't miss it, so he says."

Alex lowered his head to Ivar's shoulder. "Oh, shut up. You're so cocky."

"And you love it," Ivar kissed the top of his head, his smile not fading until they both drifted away into a deep sleep.

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❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

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The next couple of weeks proved to be difficult ones for Ivar, but he handled them better than before, with a determined end in sight. He'd finally decided to give his all with physical therapy and was even actually able to stand on his own for a few moments at a time.

With that information, his doctor had told him he was well on his way to walking again, and it also meant no amputation, providing blood tests agreed, but for the time being, he needed to continue with the hard work.

After consistent work from Ivar, he was given a brace for his leg and crutches to walk with. He was finally able to walk short distances on his own. With the encouragement from Alex and his therapist, he was determined to accomplish his goal of walking again without help and getting out of the hospital.

Today was the day Ivar was going to have blood tests and exams of his legs to check how he was healing and if he would finally be able to go home. He had been on edge the entire morning, and Alex had been silently praying to everything holy that he wouldn't result to his typical angry outbursts. When they came to take him to the exam room with the wheelchair, he refused to use it. Just as Alex held his breath and waited for Ivar's wrath, he said to the nurse, "I think I can actually walk there. Can you just push the chair alongside me just in case I were to tire and need it?"

Alex snapped his head around to Ivar. He had been expecting anything but a pleasant, calm response from him. As a proud grin spread across Alex's face, Ivar innocently smiled back at him. "What?"

"Nothing. Let's get you down the hall to the exam room."

Ivar would have been lying had he said the tests weren't a bit painful. He had to place his right leg in very uncomfortable positions for the doctors to get proper readings of his muscles, tissue, and bones. They needed him to stretch it and hold it tightly in the needed positions. He was becoming frustrated and irritable as the tests went on. He gritted his teeth and began dreading the results. He was sure, now, that he'd be staying in the hospital for a while longer. All the confidence he'd felt walking to the exam room from his room had completely left him, and he now felt defeated. Again.

"We're all done, Mr. Lothbrok. You may return to your room now. The doctor will be in to see you soon with the results," one of the nurses said.

He slipped his brace back on, trying not to make a sound at the additional pain it caused, and stood up. He wobbled a bit and lost his balance, falling back to the exam table. "Woah, woah, Mr. Lothbrok. Not so fast. Take it easy. Are you ok?" the nurse asked, rushing to his side.

"I'm fine," he growled, determined to get up and try it again, and stood once more. This time, he caught himself on the table and managed to continue standing, though the pain certainly didn't seem to be helping.

The nurse motioned for the other nurse to bring the wheelchair over, and she turned facing Ivar. "I think we've put you through too much this morning. Why don't you let me push you back to your room so you can give your leg some rest and time to recuperate?"

She saw his look of desperation as she locked the wheels on the chair and then quickly added, "This is just for your comfort, Mr. Lothbrok. Using this wheelchair isn't what will determine you getting to leave us. The results of those tests will. It's too be expected that you'll be in a bit of pain after all the stretches, pulls, and twists we've put you through. I'm sorry for that, by the way. I'm actually quite impressed you still want to walk, but here," she offered him her arm for support, "Let me give you some relief, just this once, and assist you back to your room for now. You can have some pain pills if you require them once we get you settled."

At first, Ivar looked at her like she had horns growing from her head, but once he tried to remove one of his hands from the table that he was using to support himself, he quickly realized he should take her up on her offer even despite his feelings of immense failure. "Umm, ok. I guess," he said, refusing to look her in the eyes.

She stepped closer to him, "Let me help. Grab my arm." Ivar did as instructed, and before he knew it, she'd wheeled him back to his room and was helping him sit down on the bed. "The doctor will be in shortly."

Alex, who had been impatiently waiting in the room, stood up immediately and went to Ivar, who dropped his head. "Ivar?" he hesitated, "Do you need some meds?"

"No! I'm fine!"

Alex knew he wasn't, and he wasn't sure if he should push or not. The last thing he wanted was an argument, but he hated seeing Ivar in pain when he knew there was relief available. So he tried once more. "Ivar," and Ivar glared at him, "You don't have to take anything too strong. You could just take something to help the pain ease up some. You know it doesn't show a sign of weakness."

Ivar sighed, giving Alex a look of despair, "No, it shows that I'm not getting out of here today. I just really thought I was ready."

Alex grabbed his hand, "Oh, we knew the tests were going to be a bit rough, Ivar. Of course, you're going to have some pain from time to time, but what's important is if the infection is gone and that you can actually walk now. Don't give up now. If you don't get to go home today, they'll test you again in a few days. Whatever happens, you just have to know it's for the best." He leaned down and kissed him on the forehead.

"How can you always stay so positive?" Ivar said, finally looking up to meet Alex's caring eyes.

"Because one of has to be," he smiled. "If the two of us are mad, what could we ever accomplish?" He placed his hand on Ivar's cheek. "Let me get a nurse for you, ok?"

Ivar nodded, giving in to the fight. He knew Alex was right, but he couldn't prevent all the negative thoughts going through his mind. He knew if he didn't have Alex by his side, everything about his current situation would be very different. He sent a silent prayer above, thanking the powers that be for bringing Alex into his life.

Once a nurse came in and gave Ivar some medication, he finally laid his head back to relax. Within minutes, he dozed off to sleep with Alex at his side, rubbing his arm in an effort to calm him. Before he knew it, Alex had rested his head on the side of the bed and fell asleep as well.

After some time, the doctor finally came into Ivar's room. Ivar and Alex both stirred awake. "Sorry to disrupt your sleep, guys. Should I return a little later?" he teased.

Annoyed, Ivar groggily answered, "Please just deliver the bad news so we can rest."

The doctor grinned, "Well, I thought you may prefer to rest at home in your own bed."

Ivar sat straight up in the bed, "Wh-what? Did you just say?"

"Yes, Son. You are cleared to go home. The nurse is getting the paperwork together as we speak."

Alex gasped as Ivar turned to him and then back to the doctor, completely shocked. "But I. I couldn't walk back. It was. Damn. The tests caused a lot of pain. Are you sure? You're not messing with me, are you?"

The doctor stood at the foot of Ivar's bed and gave him a serious look, "I would never do such a cruel thing, but there are conditions. You still need to follow up with your therapy, and you must continue with your medication at home, but you don't need the injections anymore. The infection has cleared up quite nicely. I'm so pleased there's no worry of amputation. The nurse will schedule a two week follow up appointment with you to see me in the office. Between now and then, if you have any problems or questions arise, do not hesitate to call my office."

Ivar eyes glimmered with hope and excitement, "I was sure. I mean. I just knew I'd have to stay longer. I can't believe it. Thank you. Thank you so much."

"Mr. Lothbrok, you may still have some tough days ahead of you. You've been through a lot. Promise me you'll remember that, and forgive yourself when you need a break. And this is why you must also take the wheelchair with you. There may be a day here or there that you'll be happy to have it."

Ivar grimaced but said, "If it means I get to finally go home, I'll roll all the way there in it!" They chuckled.

When the doctor left, a very emotional Ivar looked over to Alex. "I, I can't believe it."

Alex quickly jumped into action. "Well, you rest while I get all of our things together. Let's be ready once the nurse comes." Ivar watched him rushing around, throwing things into bags, gathering items together, pulling get well cards off the walls, and he just smiled. He was thoroughly pleased with the news. He'd seriously began to believe he'd be in that hospital from now on.

His mind drifted to being home, seeing Ivy, finally, and feeling a little normal again. He wondered how long it would be before he could return to their club, when he'd be able to drive again, when he'd be able to bend over and pick Ivy up into his arms on his own, when he could do the normal things that he used to take for granted such as standing in the shower, running, or yes, making love to his ever patient, loving Alex.

Before he knew it, Alex was gently tapping him on the shoulder. "Ivar?" Alex said softly, "Are you ready? The nurse is here with papers for you to sign."

Ivar rubbed his eyes with the palm of his hands. "Huh? Umm. Was I sleeping?"

Alex smiled, "Yes. Apparently, your excitement wore you out."

The nurse went over everything with them and had him sign her paperwork. She gave copies to Alex as she headed to the door. "And congratulations, Mr. Lothbrok. I'm really happy for you."

When the door closed, Alex told him, "We're all packed up and ready to go. Who do you want to pick us up?"

Without hesitation, Ivar answered, "Hvitserk. I could use some of his nonsense right now." Ivar's smile grew widely across his face as Alex called.

☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

*= phrase from the character, Winston, in the movie, John Wick

More on the way......

[imtryingbuck]

Jealousy? Never.

~ gif not mine credit to owner ~

Pairing: Ivar Ragnarsson x fem!Reader

Summary: Ivar the boneless jealous? Absolutely not.

Word count: 862

Warnings: possessive and jealous Ivar. fluff. slight angst. insecurity (ivar). naked reader - not sexual. mentions of murder (not detailed). shorter than i honestly wanted it to be, sorry.

A/N: thank you anon for sending this request🤍

Masterlist

Ivar’s jaw was clenched painfully tight that Ubbe thought he was going to crack a tooth or two. Jealousy burning his veins as he watched the scene before him. Hvitserk was playing with fire and he knew it, Ivar knew it, everyone in the Great Hall knew it, not that he cared as he continued to dance with Ivar’s queen.

You didn’t see a problem with having fun and have a dance with your brother in law, however your husband clearly thought differently, his blunt nails digging into the wooden arms of his throne, it wasn’t until he banged his crutches down loud enough to catch the attention from everyone in the room - without saying a word he walked out.

That was your queue to follow.

Bidding goodbye to Hvitserk and thanking him for a wonderful night, you made your way towards your shared chambers, twisting the lace of your dress nervously as you pushed the door open. “Husband.”

“Husband? I’m surprised you remembered.” He muttered as he unlanced his braces. “You were all over him tonight.”

“I-I was-”

“All over him! My brother.”

Flinching at his tone, you lowered her head. “It was a dance, nothing more. I promise.”

“He was all over you.”

“It was a dance Ivar I swear.” Carefully shuffling closer to him, to nervous of his reaction, when he didn’t react to your action you knelt down in front of him. “I was just having fun, I’m sorry.”

Raising his hand, he smoothed your hair out of your face - loving the way the soft strands felt against his rough fingers. “He wants to fuck you.”

“Don’t be silly.” The glare he gave you took the smile straight off of your lips. “I do not want him, I swear.”

“You are mine.”

“Yours, and yours only.” It was true, you didn’t want any other man, it was always Ivar from the moment you saw him one day in the market. He was sat on the steps leading up to the Great Hall, a scowl on his face as he watched people walk around, standing by your fathers stall as he spoke to a customer you couldn’t take your eyes off of the man. From that day on, you kept a look out for him, when you saw him crawling around you didn’t even find it weird or funny - not like your father. It took you nearly three months to gather the courage to speak to him, finding him sat on the beach on his own, you were a stuttering mess - only getting worse when he told you he was one of the princes of Kattegat, but from there a friendship was formed between the two of you. He told you several months later that when he became king he wanted you by his side as his wife and queen, at first you thought he was joking but his face said otherwise. When the brothers and the Great Heathen Army went to England to avenge king Ragnar’s death, Ivar made sure he took you with him, against the wishes from his brothers, whilst over there you two got married and from that moment he called you queen. “I love you and only you, Ivar.”

His only reaction was to pout. The ruthless, fearless Ivar the Boneless sat there on the bed he shared with his wife pouting. “You could if you want.”

“Could what, my love?”

“Have him, or-or anyone.” He whispered, twisting your wedding ring around. “It can not be easy with being married to a cripple.”

“I do not wish, want or need anyone else Ivar. I am happy, I am loved- you do love me d-”

“Don’t even think about finishing that sentence! You know I love you.”

“And you know I love you.” Turning you hand around, linking your fingers with his. “Please never ever doubt me.”

“I didn’t like the way he was holding you.”

“We were just dancing Ivar.”

“Still don’t like it.” He huffed. “Only I get to touch you.”

“Yes, only you get to touch me.” Lifting up and walking over to the vanity you removed the heavy crown that was given to you by Ivar, you began to attempt to undo your dress.

“Want a hand, my love?”

“Please.”

“Come here then my beautiful queen.” Standing between his legs, your skin began to tingle as he fingers danced along your bare skin. Turning around as the dress pooled around your ankles, his hands went straight to your naked waist. “I love you.”

“And I love you.” Climbing into bed after helping Ivar undress, he instantly pulled you closer to him and wrapped his arms around you. “Ivar?”

“Yes, my love?”

“I like it when your jealous.”

He huffed, rolling his eyes. “I’m never jealous.”

“No, of course not.” Giggling at the memories of all the times Ivar threatened and even killed men who looked at you longer than he deemed necessary, doing it all out of jealousy. “The great Ivar the boneless doesn’t get jealous.”

Rolling his eyes once again with a soft smile tugging at his lips as your giggles filled the room. “Shut up and go to sleep.”

Tags: @cheesesandwichsanto

[aikaterini-drag]

Embrace of Two Hearts

Summary: Harald has been traveling, negotiating alliances but now that he is back, he can’t take his eyes off of his wife —as well as his hands off of her.

Pairing: King Harald Sigurdson x Queen Fem!reader

Warnings: fluff, kisses, implied smut, besotted Harald.

It had been a long time since Harald Sigurdsson had left Norway to build alliances and trading negotiations with the surrounding kingdoms. The matter had required his attention and he had been forced to leave you behind so you could take care of the kingdom in his absence. You were his Queen, the person he trusted and loved the most.

After meeting with various wealthy yarls and merchants, Harald’s plans had been prosperous; he’d stricken deals to trade goods and boost the income of his kingdom.

After almost two months at traveling, he was finally back.

Harald hadn’t blown the horns to make his arrival known.

He wanted today to be a surprise.

He wanted to see your face light up and hear your happy laughter as you reached him.

So after a light meal and a much needed bath, he headed to one of the villages where he was told you had gone shopping.

With his hood pulled low over this face, he strolled along the bustling Viking village, and when he saw you, his eyes fixed on you. You hadn’t taken notice of his presence; you were engaged in conversation with some of the women selling silks and spices. Resting his great frame on one of the stalls, he took his time and watched you for a few seconds. When waiting became too much to handle, he slipped back his hood and approached you.

A loud gasp left your lips when you finally saw him. You blinked, as in disbelief and when he smiled invitingly, all dimples and sunshine, you rushed into his arms. Your husband was back! Oh, how you’ve missed him, craved him! You’ve been exchanging letters with him during his travels but nothing compared to him holding you, touching you. And there he was, tall and handsome, wearing his marvelous regal tunic and leather pants, his fur cloak, his handsome face forming a warm smile.

“Ah, there’s my beautiful queen!” he said when you practically jumped into his waiting arms.

"Oh, Harald!" You pressed your lips against his in a long kiss. “You didn’t tell me you were coming back.”

“Surprise,” he said, his lips stretched delightfully.

“Oh, how I missed you! Is everything alright? The negotiations?”

“Everything’s perfect. I’ll tell you about my feats later.” He cupped your face, his hungry eyes taking in your beauty. “Let me look at you, have my fill of you.”

“Did you miss me so much, my lord husband?”

“Only a little, my lady wife.”

"Only a little?" You raised a brow. “Then why are you here?”

“Because I lied. I missed you. Painfully. Deeply. Hard.”

You laughed. “You debauched Viking.”

He grinned. “I've hoped to distract you from your shopping. Is it working?”

You fluttered your eyelashes. “Only if you kiss me again.”

Smiling in that stunning mischievous smile of his, he lowered his lips to yours, his tongue dancing with yours wetly. The touch was too swift for your liking but since you were still in public—and everyone was staring… you drew back softly. Harald locked your hands together and led the way back to your longhouse. You walked through the hall, with him stealing kisses and whispering sweet words to you.

When he had you in the solitude of your room, he scooped you up and dropped you onto the bed. You giggled as you bounced stop the furs and pillows. He joined you, a thick knee climbing onto the bed, the mattress dipping under his weight. And then he was all over you, his strong body draped over your slender frame. He watched you with eyes ablaze with the passion, his lips parted. He brought his hands to caress your cheek, his knuckles tracing your skin lovingly.

“What is it, King Harald? What has you so enthralled?” you teased, leaning into his touch.

“You,” he said simply. “My wife… my beautiful wife who outshines even the finest jewels.”

You kissed him lightly. “I’m not as charming as my strong and courageous husband.”

“I disagree. You are achingly beautiful and perfect. And I am not in the least charming.”

“Oh, you're charming. Impossibly charming.” You claimed his lips and he moaned. “Your charm is as sharp as your sword.”

Harald grinned. “My love, my sword only yields to you. Sharp and ready to service you.”

“You didn’t just say that!”

He kissed your forehead, however, his hands were skillfully dragging up your gown. “What are you thinking, my mischievous wife?”

“What are you thinking, my mischievous husband?”

“I’m thinking I missed the feel of you. And that I want you,” he said and rolled his hips gently, and even with the layers of clothes, his groin pressed hard against her center.

Whining softly, you slipped your hands under his tunic to feel his warm skin. “Me, too. It has been so long.”

“Hm… I have been denied your warmth but no more.”

“Make love to me?”

“All day and night, my love.”

He pulled you close and kissed you deeply and fervently, lips meeting, tongues brushing. The world around you seemed to fade away, leaving nothing but your love and passion. Clothes were tossed away, skin touched skin, sweat tricked like little diamonds and then came bliss.

[undiscovered-horizon]

Vikings preference: your friend hits on you and gets aggressive

@ivartheb0neless

Ragnar Feels genuinely hurt because he thought he could trust your friend. Whenever Ragnar went away, he'd ask your friend to keep an eye on you and generally make sure you're safe and sound. Makes veiled threats and passive-aggressive jokes at first, hoping that he can both force a boundary and not sour any relationships but his humour is gone when he realizes that your friend is not keen on taking no as an answer. If you raise your concern about "safety vs. keeping a friend", Ragnar makes a sarcastic comment about your sentiment - because a guy who forced himself on you is such a great friend to keep, right?

Gives you a knife to keep on you at all times. If you have the guts, and such an occasion arises, to stab the man once he gets physical with you, Ragnar will have your back no matter what. Also, low-key thrilled. But if you don't end up fighting your own battles, he'll gladly do it for you. Not an ounce of regret on his face during or after.

Bjorn Pretty direct. Makes plausible threats and will fulfil them. Terrifyingly calm and collected for the most part. He's angry but also disappointed that someone you considered a friend could repay your kindness and affection in such a way.

If you tell Bjorn that you're unsure what to do because you want to keep your friend or you think that he's overdoing things, he might get short with you but it's not out of malice. He's worried that if you don't see your male friend for the lying snake that he is, you might get even more hurt and that possibility enrages him so much he doesn't entertain that thought longer than necessary.

Bjorn is definitely the type to make his revenge somewhat public. Not only will that make others keep their distance from you but it will also earn him respect among other men - he takes his husbandly duties seriously. Whether your "friend" lives or dies is entirely up to them and how callous they have been with you. Whether he meant to or not, Bjorn causes people to look away from you when you're walking through the town. No one wants to risk getting your friend's treatment.

After that, Bjorn will never trust any man who tries to be your friend or claims to be one.

Ubbe Tries to be the bigger person at first and has a stern word with your friend. Ubbe is probably the only one to seriously take your word/assurance that there's nothing to get worked up about. He will also wait relatively the longest before getting seriously involved - not because he doesn't care, it's quite the contrary. He doesn't want to impose on your independence, so even if he's uncomfortable with the situation but you keep saying "I've got this", he will keep to himself although will voice his concerns (and will refuse to leave you alone at any place or time). When things become serious and the man starts to get physical, Ubbe will make it clear that from now on he's more concerned about your well-being than your freedom: "I'm sorry for disregarding your wishes but I can't sit and watch you get hurt". Believes to be responsible for your safety as your husband.

Ubbe is the type of person who will seek your friend out on his own and resolve the issue right then and there. He goes to the other man's house one night and leaves it only when an agreement is reached - doesn't matter how far he has to go to ensure that. Ubbe's not afraid to get his hands dirty for the right reasons.

Hvitserk Also hurt because he was actually getting along well with the other man. Hvitserk will ask about your perspective and wishes but if your safety is compromised, he won't make them a priority. At first, he's trying to get you out of harm's way, so you're leaving your house only if he's by your side. But once he learns that your supposed friend forced his way into your home and put his hands on you, Hvitserk is determined to take things into his own hands. He won't seek out your friend on his own but rather wait for an opportunity to arise; doesn't start the fight but surely will end it. The next time another unwanted advances are made towards you, Hvitserk has an axe in his hand and this time, he's the one who doesn't take no for an answer.

If you ever befriend another man after that, Hvitserk will tolerate him but never let go of any suspicions. Also, might tell the story of your previous "admirer" to scare your new friend into behaving properly.

Sigurd The most probable to get into a brawl right away. At first, he feels quite self-conscious seeing another man flirting with you but when the man in question starts to become aggressive, Sigurd coins his insecurity into hostility, effectively picking a fight. After what seems like lakes of blood and an entire concert of bones breaking, the brawl ends. Sigurd looks like he's been through Hell and still that's a lot better than your friend, who would be pronounced dead if it wasn't for the sporadic raise of his chest as he tries to take in a ragged breath. Sigurd will also voice his anger as he's caving in the other man's skull ("Was it fun when you grabbed her? Enjoying a little manhandling, eh? I'm happy to provide").

Gains respect in his brothers' eyes but none of them quite wants to admit it.

Ivar He would also feel self-conscious at first. Considers your friend's bold behaviour an assault on his masculinity ("You think I'm not man enough and therefore think you have any right to bother my wife"). Not surprised in the slightest. Hated the guy's guts from the very beginning and made it obvious. Might actually say the dreaded "told you so".

Because he perceives your friend's aggression as somewhat personal, Ivar is driven to go quite far in order to make the punishment fit for the crime. Not only does he do it for your sake but also to make sure that everyone knows just how much of a true Viking is inside him. Some say that "silence is golden", so if your friend decides to use less-than-savoury language towards you, he might end up with his throat filled with liquid gold to ensure no more offence leaves his mouth. Similarly, he's going to suffer the "equivalents" for whatever other thing he's done. He grips your hand so hard there's a bruise? Ivar will wrap his hand with a chain and slowly tighten it until all the bones crack and the wrist is literally torn away from the forearm. But no matter what he does, in the end he still feels like it doesn't quite make up for your friend's wrongdoings.

[blakeswritingimagines]

Wiping Away Their Kisses

Ragnar: He'll laugh and smile, then he'll jokingly chase you around, trying to kiss you again, though he's pretty much pretending to put in any effort into it. Once he's caught you, he'll wrap you up in his arms, and kiss you on the neck instead.

Athelstan: "What are you doing?" He can't help but ask as he frowns at the act of wiping away a kiss. He is not happy about you being playful, especially when it comes to something as intimate as a kiss. He sees this as a sign of you not valuing the connection you have, and it bothers him.

Floki: His grin spreads wide at this like he's finding the situation hilarious. He lets his lips curl into a lopsided smile before leaning back slightly and playfully sticking his tongue out at you, teasing you. He winks and giggles, "I guess you're just not into it, huh?" His voice is teasing but playful.

Lagertha: She'll chuckle to herself, secretly entertained by the playful gesture. She'll lean forward and press her lips against yours once again, enjoying the feel of your skin against her own. When you playfully wipe it away again, she grins and says in a teasing voice, "I'll keep kissing you until you're too overwhelmed to wipe them away anymore."

Aslaug: She'll laugh after knowing it was a joke, and give a teasing look, then pull you close again and softly kiss your lips. She'll whisper, "Who said I was done yet?"

Bjorn: Is annoyed at first, but he quickly becomes playful and grabs your hands, preventing you from wiping away any more kisses. He leans in and slowly kisses your cheeks, lips, and finally neck. He'll release your hands and trail his fingers along your body, gently squeezing your hip before backing away.

Ubbe: A look of playful annoyance crosses his face. But that quickly turns into a devilish smirk. When you go to wipe away another kiss, he gently grabs your hands and pulls you closer so you can't.

Hvitserk: If you playfully wipe away a kiss, he would playfully pretend to be offended, then he would playfully grab your arms and pull you into another kiss while saying in a playfully playful tone, "You can't get rid of me that easily."

Sigurd: "What are you doing?" He'll laugh to hide his embarrassment and playfully reach for another kiss. He moves closer to you and wraps his arms around you, pulling you in close. With one hand, he'll cup your chin and lean in close. He'll gaze into your eyes and gently kiss you again, taking his time and letting your lips softly brush against each other.

Ivar: He gives you a playful glare, letting his lips curl into a small smirk. "Oh, you're asking for it now." He leans forward, putting his hands on your hips, and starts kissing you again.

Halfdan: He smirked at the little trick you tried to play on him. He then leaned forward and wrapped his arms around your waist and kissed you passionately, deeply, and repeatedly as he runs his fingers through your hair, leaving strands of it disheveled as he does so.

Harald: He would look you in the eyes and smile, leaning in to kiss you again. He takes your hand and gently pulls you close. He'll whisper in your ear: "I couldn't help myself, darling - your lips are too irresistible to resist." As he kisses you again, more deeply this time, and gently bites your bottom lip before pulling away. He looks deep into your eyes and whispers again, "Let's not be play tonight, shall we?"

[miss-madness67]

Mother Knows Best (Ivar)

Prompt: My arranged marriage with Ivar the Boneless was not a surprise. The surprise had been finding out he did not want to lay with me. Are the rumors of his incapabilities true? Is sex the answer to learn to love each other? I do not know. He scares me, but he is no less fascinating. That is why I decided to give him a chance. Slight AU. Ragnar does not die, neither does Aslaug. They rule side by side and decide to ally themselves with the Saxons.

Mother looks at me across the table. Her eyes are expectant, her expression unamused. She waits for me to say something; to tell her that I am already with child. But because I am not, I remain quiet.

“I would like to know my grandchild, preferably,” she says, “but it would be nice if at least I know you are with child before you leave Wessex.” She gives me a hard stare. Oh, I know she would like that, that’s the reason she has given me plenty of recommendations on how to please my husband in bed. Not that I have applied them.

A month ago, I was given the news that I was to be wed to the youngest of King Ragnar’s sons. A man I hadn’t even met and whose ruthlessness was well known. It was a political marriage. Arranged so our kingdoms would become friends instead of foes. My grandfather, King Ecbert, wanted to have a good relationship with the heathens, so he promised my hand for peace. I always knew I would be married for the good of my kingdom and not love, but that does not mean the news was less disappointing.

The wedding took place two weeks ago, right after the arrival of the Vikings. And as I approached the altar, that was the first time I laid eyes on my husband. His cold demeanor rendered me speechless, but his hard blue-eyed stare sent shivers down my spine. He was sitting on a chair waiting for me. I knew his legs were useless, so that did not surprise me. I tried not to stare during the ceremony but failed miserably. He had looked at me annoyed yet intrigued.

My father, Prince Aethelwulf, was displeased with the marriage, but he had little to no say in the matter. My mother Judith, even though she was in favor of the union, she did not agree with the choice of groom. She thought Ubbe or Sigurd would have been better candidates. King Ragnar himself had chosen Ivar, and my grandfather had agreed with the promise that he would be able to provide children. His ability to lay with a woman had many rumors, but King Ragnar had assured that Ivar was no less of a man in that matter. Not that I would know, because I had yet to lay with him.

The night of our wedding, the bedding ceremony had been canceled due to the Viking’s request. So when I entered the chambers, there was no pressure in laying with him. Yet, I expected he would have wanted me to because he is a man. That had not been the case. That night, we laid side by side in silence until the sun raised. Back then I had been grateful because I did not want to sleep with a man I barely knew, but now I have begun to question myself. Does he not find me attractive? Does he know how to lay with a woman? Is he really not physically able? Does he prefer men?

It is necessary for us to have a child in order to fortify the alliance. That is why my mother had given me tips to please him. I had yet to use them, I feared to do so. In all honesty, I had been afraid of my husband when I first heard of him, and during our wedding. I have heard how he is and I have seen how he treats people. However, that fear has receded ever since. These past two weeks he has been nothing but kind to me, even a little shy. That’s probably the reason why I have started to feel attraction towards him. That and his sharp mind. At first, I did not know how to speak his language. He has been slowly teaching me. And I have seen him playing chess with Alfred, it is honestly fascinating.

“It would be wise for your marriage if you have passion in the bedroom, darling,” my mother says.

I know she means good, and I know she is probably right, but I have to bite my tongue from mentioning her passion with my grandfather. Her marriage with my father is a mere paper. I do not wish my marriage with Ivar to be the same, despite the circumstances. But she does have a point, she has a very good relationship with my grandfather, whom she beds. Sex must be the answer to get closer to Ivar. And maybe, with time, we could learn to love each other. That is a foolish thought, but it is what motivates me to wait naked in bed. He arrives at the dormitory shortly after twelve. He has been drinking with his brothers, but all the inebriation leaves him once he sees me.

“Hello, my…” he does not like it when I call him titles, so I correct myself, “... Ivar. I have been waiting for you.” He does not say anything. Heat accumulates in my face. Does he not like what he sees? I fight the urge to cover myself and hide between the covers. His hands tighten around his crutches.

“What… What are you doing like that? What if someone other than me were to come in?” He questions, he seems angry at the idea, but his eyes do not leave my body.

“I made sure no one other than you were to come inside, my husband,” I whisper. Ivar must notice that I am not completely myself acting like this, because he looks away.

“You don’t have to do that, you know.” He approaches the bed and sits down, his back to me. “I know this is an arranged marriage, we do not have to do anything that you do not want.” His voice is uninterested but his words are sweet. I hesitate.

“I know, but we are expected to bear children.” He tenses. He does not say anything, he starts to take off his leg braces. I wait patiently. The room is colder when he speaks.

“If that is what you wish this is unnecessary, you do not have to remove your camisole.” His voice is harsh and I know I said something I was not supposed to.

“It is not only about that,” I try to correct myself though my voice waivers in nervousness, “I wish… I wish for us to enjoy making children.” It is the most direct way for me to express my desire for him.

He stops what he is doing and turns around. He looks me in the eyes looking for uncertainty. I know he finds none when he drags his body towards me. His arms muscles flex and something knots in my belly. He looms over me with a hungry stare.

When he opens his mouth I think he is about to devour me but he speaks. “Do you not know the rumors? Do you not know what they say?” He does not wait for me to answer, “apparently, I can not please a woman, I can not give children, I am a useless husband.”

I do not hesitate to answer, “I do not listen to rumors, I like to verify for myself,” I put a hand on his chest and the other around his neck. “If it is false, then we shall prove them so, and if it is true, then we shall not give up until we try everything.” He looks doubtful, “I… have learned a few tricks that shall please my husband.”

His surprise is evident when he speaks, “well, I have also learned a few tricks that shall please my wife."

I smile, “then, let us learn from one another.” I do not have time to say anything else before his lips crash with mine.

It is uncertain if we will succeed this night or another, or if we will have children, or if we will learn to love each other. The only thing that I am certain of is that we care for one another. At this moment, in my husband’s arms, I feel like never before.

[another-bryk-in-the-wall]

Frederikke Dahl Hansen & Alex Høgh Andersen

En Af Os Ryster

[woahhhgwendolyn]

Ivar Having A Crush On You Would Include...

Ivar having a crush on you would be so obvious to everyone. Everyone would always bring it up to him and make fun of him for having this crush on you because they thought that he would never be able to pull you. He would always fantasize about you and the things that you both could do together. He would always get really nervous around you and try and talk to you but could never make a full conversation with you because he is so nervous around you. He eventually gets over this and starts to make conversations longer with you and even gives you gifts quite often.

[bjornswoman]

Destruction XII

Author's note: Hello, happy New Year to you all! Sorry for being too late to post the last part of these series. However, here it is I hope you will enjoy it!

Pairing: Modern!Ivar x Reader.

Genre: Modern!au, series, fluff, drama, angst.

Warnings: Strong language, mentions of pregnancy.

Destruction | Part I | Part II | Part III | Part IV | Part V | Part VI | Part VII | Part VIII | Part IX | Part X | Part XI

A couple of months later.

You had forgotten the sound of your own giggle the past year. However, those two last months were enough to prove you wrong and remind you that you still contained the ability to feel happy and laugh — finally.

“You can’t be serious!” You exclaimed laughing at your friend Torvi. There had been a long time since you last met each other. Actually, the last time you saw her was before your wedding.

A wedding that never really happened because Ivar decided to take you away. He had confessed that he loved you that same day as well. You could recollect the memory as it was yesterday.

Flashback – Two months ago.

“It’s not what you believe, (Y/N). It wasn’t just revenge for me. You mean a lot to me. You know I am just not good at saying those things and you, also, know that I can be dickhead sometimes. Don’t cry for me. I - I care for you.”

Ivar had said and kissed you like his life was depending on this kiss – like both of your life were depending on this kiss.

“Don’t get married, you don’t deserve being treated like that. Dump that asshole.”

You needed to hear these words back then – you needed a motive to stop that madness. After all, you didn’t love Mason, but Ivar.

You didn’t treat Mason right, so leaving him before this mistake would be the only thing you would do to save him from being miserable next to you – because of you.

“I won’t, Ivar.”

“You are mine.”

“I am yours.”

End of flashback.

“Oh, I’m and that’s not even the end of it.” Torvi continued speaking and got you out of your thoughts about that particular day. “Your mother was about to kill Hvitserk when he announced that Ivar had stolen you – those were the exact words he used.” She laughed. "Besides you know the love your mother contains for Hvitserk." You both laughed at her remark.

It was well-known that your mother loathed the sons of Ragnar – especially Hvitserk. She would call him peccant or sinful. Generally, she would criticize his way of living. Not that Ivar was her favourite brother though, but Hvitserk worked as a red flag for her.

You could picture your mother's face after hearing Hvitserk announcing that the wedding was over because you run away with his brother. You were sure long before Torvi told you about the events of that evening that she was furious – that was the main reason you hadn't even tried to contact her since then.

"What about Mason?" You hesitated to say his name after the way you treated him, though he wasn't honest to you either – as he lied to you about the events of the past and blamed Ivar about his doing.

Anyways, you felt guilt of your own lies, because you acted the very same way you accused Ivar of when you walked away on him.

"Oh well, I heard that he is fine though he and the boys are distant after what happened. He blames them for helping Ivar. Anyways, Ubbe told me that Ivar mentioned that he is after Freydis again."

You could understand the way Mason felt, but you couldn't focus on this after some names were mentioned successively.

"Ivar?" You muttered before you could stop yourself.

"Yes, Freydis told him."

You felt jealous once again about the same thing – you were back to the beginning of this messed up story. You felt weird after everything that happened the last two months in contrast with what Torvi just told you. Maybe you were just overreact, but still you couldn't bear lose again.

Maybe your love wasn't the healthiest one , but it was strong enough to swallow you if he hurt you like he did previously.

"Don't tell me you are jealous." Torvi said smiling after receiving no response from you.

"I'm not jealous of her." You fought back and she chuckled. It was too obvious that you were lying.

"You didn't really tell me what happened with Ivar after you left." She mentioned and you smiled at the memory.

Flashback – Two months ago.

Your heart was full after a very long time it felt half without him. You felt happy again being close to the person who you loved the most. Probably this wasn't the best way to come back together – not even close to be honest – but what was worth it for you was the fact that you were sitting on the passenger's seat of his car and he was on the driver's seat taking you away somewhere that only he knew.

Nobody spoke a word though – an awkward silence was surrounding the car. You didn't know what to say – you didn't know whether you had to say something or not. You knew Ivar by heart and yet you couldn't predict what was inside his head. You knew when he was mad, happy or sad, but you couldn't say what was bothering him.

"Ivar." You breathed and turned your eyes at his figure. "Do-do you love me?" Your voice was barely coming out as a whisper. It was a silly question to ask – even after he crashed your wedding and told you that he cared for you – you wanted to hear him saying this particular word. You hadn't heard him saying it – at least not to you.

"What kind of question is that? Didn't I told that I care for you less than an hour ago?" You could say by hearing the tone of his raised voice that he was getting annoyed by your question. You were aware of the fact that he wasn't good with words – especially this kind of words, but you wanted to hear him saying just for once.

"Why is it so difficult for you to say it again? Tell me, do you love me, Ivar?" You raised your voice out of frustration. You couldn't understand the reason why it had to be that hard for him to tell you about his feelings.

The possibility that he didn't feel that way came in your mind. Maybe he was just possessive when it came to you or it could be obsession the feeling he contained for you. Those could be the actual reasons why he couldn't express his love fore and that would be because it was non-existent.

"Yes!" Ivar yelled with obvious anger at you and hit his hands on the wheel.

"Yes, what?" You pressured him more as you were angry and disappointed at the time because of his inability to express himself to you – the person he was supposed to love.

Ivar hit the brake pedal so forcefully that if you weren't wearing the seatbelt you would be out of the car when it stopped. You turned your face at him and he had already focused his furious blue eyes on you.

"No, Ivar, you don't." With those last words you stormed out of his car and started walking at the opposite way from the one he was driving on. Though, you didn't get to make it far away because his hand grabbed yours tightly and forced you to turn back and face his wrath.

"What do you think you are doing? And what the Hel are you saying?" He growled on your face as you were trying to break-free from his grip to no avail.

You breathed heavily and looked his angry face.

"All you feel about me is some kind of authority and possessiveness as I'm one of your belongings." You spoke and motioned on your hand he was holding firmly. "The worst part of it is that it isn't even new to me to get this treatment from you. You don't love me, because you don't know how to and that's due to the fact that you feel that you don't deserve the love the others are trying to give you. The only thing you know how to do is hurting these people with your childish behaviour." You continued telling him with tears falling from your eyes – tears that you wiped away with your free hand.

Ivar was looking you without speaking, he was just looking at you quite shocked. Behind his anger you could spot guilt and redeem. He knew himself that you were right and that was the most painful part for both of you.

"The next one who will come in your life and try to give you the love you deserve let her." After these words, more tears threatened to fall from your eyes. You grabbed your gown on the palms of both of your hands and took a couple of tiny steps believing that Ivar would let you walk away from him – from his life.

However, such a thing didn't happen because he used the hand of yours he was gripping and pulled back – this time he held you closer to him your bodies were touching. You tried to fight back again, but he was too strong for you in such way that when he pulled you the lacework of your dress was ripped.

This time he even stopped holding your hand and he went for your throat. His grip was as tight or strong as it was on your hand, but it was firm enough to pull your face closer to his.

"Too late for that." Ivar said in raspy voice. "There is someone who has already made my heart beat for her – who have made me feel all of the things you've said before. I didn't know how it felt to be truly loved by somebody because of the problem I faced. I thought everyone pitied me – the poor cripple – until you came. You saw me what love really means – what it is – and I sent you away. When our paths crossed again, I thought that all I felt for you was just lust or possessiveness for a woman who used to be my partner. However, I got hold of my feelings – of my true feelings – after our first kiss in the bowling alley, when I called you to come to that bar to tell you about my conflict with Mason and after we got drunk and went to my house and slept together, remember? In fact, all this was just an excuse because I wanted to see you."

When he finished, Ivar let go off you throat and one of his hands touched your arm as the other when on one of his pockets. His touch was really genuine on your hand.

"I remember." You mumbled and smiled as you remembered that particular night you spent together.

"You want me to tell you that I love you, but you know that I'm difficult with words. Though, for you, I'll say it, but before I have to do something else." Ivar stopped and afterwards his hand got out of his pocket holding a red-whine velvet box.

You looked first at the box shocked and then at Ivar.

"Ivar, you don't have to do that just to prove your words to me." You tried to say, but he stopped you by taking your hand in his, after he opened the small box. As you expected, it contained a ring, but it was not just a random ring he picked. It was the ring you had told him years ago that you wanted to be the one you would be proposed with. It was a unique design which you couldn't find easily, but he did for you.

"I love you." Ivar finally confessed and you could even spot a tear on his cheek. His forehead touched your own as he eyes found yours. "Will you marry me, (Y/N) (Y/L/N)?" He asked and you smiled widely.

At the sound of his words, you felt your heart hitting your chest with just force that it was going to rip out of your body.

"Yes! Yes, I will marry you, Ivar Lothbrok!" You exclaimed and kissed him passionately. This kiss wasn't like anything you had experienced. It was different from any other you had shared. One that both of you were expressing within it your deepest feelings about the other person.

When you stopped, Ivar pulled you closer to him again and placed the ring on your finger.

End of flashback.

After that moment that you would never forget about, you spent two months away from everyone you knew. It was just the two of you in the middle of nowhere. However, you had to return back in Kattegat to face the real life and what came after the decisions you made.

Ivar's family welcomed you back and they were glad to hear about your engagement – though they could see it coming. They knew better that you two about the feelings you shared.

So, there you were, talking with Torvi about the days that came after your almost-wedding with Mason.

Torvi looked at you with narrowed eyes and a huge smile on her face.

"And after this you are still jealous? You are crazy girl!" Torvi exclaimed and both of you laughed again. "No, I am being serious now." She said and you both burst into laughter again. "No, seriously now you are getting married with the love of your life!" You smiled and looked back at your feet.

"And that's not even the end of it."

"What do you mean?" Your friend asked confused and your smile became even more wider than it was already. "(Y/N)?" She asked you again anxiously this time.

As an answer, your hand moved on your stomach and you caressed it meaningful. In Torvi's face formed a smile identical to yours.

"Don't tell me that you...." She exclaimed and you tried to prevent her from let everyone know about your little secret.

"Shhhh, I am, but Ivar doesn't know yet. I am going to tell him tonight and then we are sharing it with the others. Keep it for me, okay?" You spoke on a soft tone of voice and Torvi agreed happily before she congratulated you about your pregnancy.

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

Later that night.

The night sky was very beautiful – enchanting you could even say. But that wasn't the best part of the night, that part would be the fact that you were sitting next to your fiancé, trying to find the best way of telling him that you were expecting his child as he was engrossed in with laptop with work matters. You were away for so long and matters had piled up.

"Ivar, when do you think that we should get married?" You asked him out of the blue as you stood up and walked through the balcony. Ivar glanced at you for a quick second and then turned his attention back on his laptop.

"I don't know, but we should not rush. In three to four months, what do you think?" He proposed without looking at you and you smiled, because this conversation was taking the way you wanted.

"That won't be convenient. I think that it should happen in one or two months." You continued.

"Why so?"

"I'll have gained weight. I won't feet in any dress."

Your words caught him off guard. He abandoned the computer on the coffee-table and fixed his eyes on you confused.

"What do you mean?" Ivar asked as the edges of his mouth lifted and left the sofa to come closer to you. He stopped on when his body was behind yours.

"What do you want me to mean?"

"Don't riddle me, (Y/N)." His voice was stern and you couldn't help your little smirk. "Are you pregnant?" He asked as his body collided with yours and his muscular hands hugged your torso and stayed on your stomach. Your back was touching on his chest, so you couldn't see his facial expressions. "Tell me." He demanded impatiently and you smiled.

You knew how much he wanted a child – a daughter or a son. You were also aware of the fact that he was delighted when Freydis had told him that she was pregnant in the past and thought it was his child when it wasn't.

"Yes, Ivar." You whispered and tilted your head at the side to catch a glimpse of his reaction to your news. What you saw was a tear slipping from his eye and you smiled again. "Are you happy?"

"No." Your blood froze in your veins and your smile died on your lips. You turned so you could face him. "No, I am not just happy. I'm thrilled!" He exclaimed and you felt your heart beating normally in your chest again.

His hands closed you inside them and one of them caressed your hair softly.

"I love you, wife."

You giggled when you heard him calling you wife.

"I love you, husband."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ The End ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tag list: @not-another-viking-fanfic-blog, @anotherfan07, @heavenly1927, @zvacu-te-pile-moje

[vikingsmasterlist]

Flint & Iron (Ivar x OFC) *UPDATED 3/19*

Summary: She was born of blood and battle, her mother a fierce sword maiden that refused to back down even while with child. She was born into Ragnar's hands upon the battlefield of a victorious charge and within months was joined by Ragnar's own child, Ivar. Ivar was different, weak with legs but strong of heart. Their mothers often butted their heads, one being pleased to stay in the village and other constantly seeking battle, their opinions differed vastly. Their children fought the same, though raised together, they fought like cats and dogs, never ceasing even as they matured. When Ragnar suggested marriage, both children and mothers rebuked his idea. Yet the marriage went ahead under Jarl’s command and flint was struck against iron, lighting a fire that refused to be put out.

One

Two

Three

Four

Five

Six

Seven

[ivarlover]

MASTER LIST

I have finally made a master list for my Unleashed series. Find them below. Hope this makes your reading and navigating my fic a lot easier.

(In progress)

PART ONE OF UNLEASHED

Unleashed, Chapter 1

Unleashed, Chapter 2

Unleashed, Chapter 3

Unleashed, Chapter 4

PART TWO OF UNLEASHED

Undeniable, Chapter 1

Undeniable, Chapter 2

Undeniable, Chapter 3

PART THREE OF UNLEASHED

Unexpected, Chapter 1

Unexpected, Chapter 2

Unexpected, Chapter 3 (flashback #1)

Unexpected, Chapter 3.5 (flashback #2)

Unexpected, Chapter 4, 1st half

Unexpected, Chapter 4, 2nd half

Unexpected, Chapter 5

PART FOUR OF UNLEASHED

Unpredictable, Chapter 1

Unpredictable, Chapter 2

Unpredictable, Chapter 3

Unpredictable, Chapter 4, 1st part

Unpredictable, Chapter 4, 2nd part

Unpredictable, Chapter 5

PART FIVE OF UNLEASHED

Unprepared, Chapter 1

Unprepared, Chapter 2

Unprepared, Chapter 3

Unprepared, Chapter 4

Unprepared, Chapter 5

[deceitfuldevout]

Play Me a Tragedy

Dark!Ivar x Wife!Reader

Word Count: +2416

Warning(s): +18, Forced Marriage, Kidnapping, Mentions of past non con, Raiding, Forced pregnancy.

Author's Note(s): Y'all should know by now I'm all for the dramatics.

You and your husband, King Ivar, have been invited to a play. Accompanied by your children to celebrate your wedding anniversary. Filled with entertainment, games, and a feast. But it wasn't just any day, no. This was the day your entire world fell apart. When you were taken from your home, and everyone you loved. All to celebrate what was you considered to be the worst day of your life.

There had been stories told throughout the feast. Every last one of them stroked your husband's never-ending ego. Within only a few years, Ivar had gained a large mass of devoted followers who were willing to die for him and his cause. With that kind of power given to a mad man such as himself, of course it would go to his head.

Ivar convinced the people of Kattegat of his new world order. That if they follow him and him only would they achieve Valhalla. It was more a cult if anything. He made his people believe that you were his very own 'deity'. He claimed that you were made especially for him by the gods. That the two of you were destined for one another, as a way for Ivar to justify his actions. Even after being given the title of 'Queen', you had no say in politics. You were a glorified broodmare. There wasn't a single day that passed where Ivar wouldn't claim ownership over you. He would dress you himself in the finest silks and jewels during the day. By nigh. he would ravage you until the morning.

After the birth of your first child, you had finally broken. Willingly following his orders, knowing that there would be no one else to protect you and your child. Ivar was glad to claim you were finally his. Body and soul. Now proven with his cub. He would remind you everyday to be grateful that it was him who found you first. In his own words, "Who knows how it would end with any other man, this is what's best for you.", That you should be thanking him. Deep down you knew if it were another warrior, they'd tear you apart. After all, it was your husband's status that gave you access to such a luxurious life. A gilded cage fit for a queen.

Today he was obnoxiously louder than usual. His voice booms throughout the dining hall. The entertainers had saved the best story for last. 'A Tale of a Fallen Kingdom.' they called it. There were actors in costume to represent Ivar and his warriors. It only took a moment to realize which day they were reenacting.

The narrator clears his voice before beginning, "Five years ago, to this day..." he states, "King Ivar and his men visit a Kingdom, untouched by war and plague." it was then when the crowd decided to spew their distaste towards your people. Spewing insults and curses at your country's flag. Your brows furrow as your eyes widen. Had that much time really pass? Surely it hadn't been that long...it felt as though you'd been 'married' for almost a decade. But then again only a year with Ivar felt like forever.

It was almost unreal how accurate their clothes were. It had been a while since you'd seen someone dressed in your people's clothes. From the stage setup, to the costume design. It was like a memory had been extracted and put on display. You tear up at the sight of it. Truly missing your home more than ever. Part of you wasn't sure your family were still alive. There was a young maiden dressed in modest clothing. Not just any garb no, it was specifically designed for a lady in waiting. A title you were given from being the general's daughter. There your character stood, following the other meek women of the royal court.

You were portrayed as a ditzy, clumsy little thing. Who couldn't fend to save her life. Scoffing at the display, you turn to face Ivar who had found it all amusing. You roll your eyes. Did he truly find this mockery entertaining? It was obviously a political tool. Then your mind began racing. Was this truly how the people of Kattegat view you? That you were willing to betray your own people so easily. All to become Ivar's own personal whore. Your blood began to boil. This wasn't a love story but a tragedy. The young man dressed as Ivar lets out a triumphant laugh. Your counterpart had depicted you as an absolute moron, who craved the attention of a man that would give a second glance.

You scoff at the display. Out of all your ladies in court, you were the most educated. That's how you captured Ivar's interest. He had been fascinated by your intelligence. It was rare for women in your kingdom to seek an education, let alone willingly. Your parents supported you furthering your studies alongside the men. No one would question their general's only child.

Ivar used to sneak in a few pieces of literature for you to read. The next time he summoned you was for a game of chess. To his surprise you'd beaten him, his entire demeanor had shifted. He partially blames himself for underestimating a woman of these lands. But then again, not many were educated here. It was at the moment where his final decision was made, he had to have you.

Soon enough the audience follows with boisterous laughs. 'Ivar' releases his crutches before making an exaggerated dive for the woman. She squeals, "No no~you handsome heathen!" squealing as the man began to 'ravage' her. You felt a deep pit of despair, falling ill at the sight of their performance. Ivar on the other hand, was ecstatic. He indulged in the portrayal of himself, covering the growing smirk behind his cup. As the narrator continues, "How will the poor maiden survive such a world?" announcing it to the crowd.

It was then when the women clings onto 'Ivar' as if her life depended on it, "Please! King Ivar! Take me! Take me away from this boring life! Make a woman of me!" the woman boasts as she rips her blouse open, "I'm yours!" She lifts her skirts in a seductive manner. You felt sick to your stomach. This is not what happened, not at all. You had a life, a family that you were taken from.

You remember clawing at his face, hard enough to break skin. Ivar hisses from the sting. He lifts your shoulders and slams you against the ground. You felt dizzy from the impact. Air escaping your lungs as you cough to catch breath. Your vision blurs for a moment before realizing he'd already ripped through your blouse. He skillfully cuts through the garment, lifting your skirts to make way.

You despised Ivar's efforts at keeping a heroic image in public. Angry tears fell down your face. Because you, of all people, knew the truth. You have scars to bear with. From the leather bindings that burned into your wrists during that cursed wedding night, to the following months after. How he'd bound you to bed like an animal, until he was sure you were with child.

Ivar chuckles at your eldest son's discomfort. Seeing his parents being depicted as very passionate lovers. He rubs his head, "Someday you will also become a man." causing the four year old to gag. Ivar doesn't wince when your second born sits on his lap. She adores her father. Of course it was easy being the apple of his eye, and at times, she uses it to her advantage.

Every time you'd scold her, she'd run into her father's arms. You on the other hand despised his efforts at keeping a heroic image. When it was clear as day he was not to be trusted. The same hands that held your daughter close, were used to slaughter hundreds.

Seeing such a mockery being displayed to your children made your heart shatter. Tears began to trickle as you sob in silence. Your daughter notices and leaves her father to comfort you. Ivar is too absorbed into the play to pay attention. He lets out a boastful laugh, clutching his sides as the crowd roaring continues. It was during the king's coronation when the Northmen attacked.

Ivar and his men raided the other surrounding kingdoms. As a peace offering they were invited to the ceremony. Little did your leader know what sinister actions would play out. Ivar and the young king had been in talks for a peace treaty.

You held your girl close, shielding her from the next scene. It was the day he had taken you.

You and the other maidens just so happened to pass by the dining hall. It was at that moment when Ivar swore time itself had stopped. He had been mesmerized by your presence. You, a noble maiden had captured the heathen king's heart.

For the entire evening he hadn't cared for anyone's attention but yours. Ordering you to halt everything to give the King your attention. His obsession was obvious to everyone but you. He followed you around like a love-sick puppy. To the point where the King himself appointed you as his foreign advisor.

Ivar had tried everything to woo you. From the promises of riches, to land, to the title of noblewoman. All of which you politely declined. Stating that you were happy with you life the way it was. Part of you knew he wouldn't stop until you gave him the attention he so desperately craved. So much so that he decides to take matters into his own hands.

Suddenly the stage began to erupt with an array of ribbons thrown into the air. To symbolize the arrows lit aflame. Flashes of that night came to you in small doses. You're no longer in Kattegat but now residing in your kingdom, before it was burned to the ground. You could see what was once your home, burning right before your very eyes. Hearing the echoes of your people's screams. The day your life changed forever.

There Ivar was, crawling towards you as you ran for the door. "Help! Help me! Someone please!" you ran as fast as you could. The gates began to close. There was not a moment to waste. You ran because your life depended on it. But it was too late, the guards on the other side began to pull harder for the gate to close. Soon enough it had shut.

You slam it as hard as you can. Until your fists began to bruise, "Please! Someone help me! I'm the commander's daughter! Please!" taking a breath loud enough so that they can hear you, "Don't leave me!" sobbing against the metal doors. As you turn around to find Ivar had caught up with you. He grins from ear to ear covered in blood from the fallen soldiers. With a look in his eyes that said: You're mine.

On the other side of the border your father and his men fought to defend the kingdom's last line of defense. "Sir!" a solider ushers for your father, who scolds him, "Not now boy!" he swings his sword at a heathen climbing the walls. But the man insists, "It's your daughter." causing the general to halt, "What is it boy?!"

"She's missing."

"What has happened?!"

"She left for the market this morning."

Those words alone made his blood run cold, "No..." It was that day when your father had made the ultimate sacrifice. Either let the gates down and weaken the kingdom's last defense, or lose his only child. Soon enough, Ivar had already reached the gates, halting his army from furthering. He demands to speak with your father to make a deal, “General, will you let me wed your daughter?”

He scowls at such a command, “When it rains fire.”

Ivar hums, nodding at the man's proclaim, “So let it be.” He raises his arms in the air, signaling for his warriors to shoot. Hundreds of arrows are lit aflame and shot into the sky. It took three days and nights until your kingdom had finally surrendered. Ivar had won. Your kingdom had lost.

This was the ‘Great love story’ of King Ivar and his queen. Your remember the pain and betrayal felt was immeasurable. Those strong feelings from years ago all came down at once. Like something inside of you had finally tipped over. You finally reach your breaking point, bowing your head in shame. Crying to yourself as your daughter tries her best to comfort you. But her soft heart could no longer take the sight of her mother weeping, as she wraps her arms around you and cries.

It catches the attention of your husband. It was then when his mood had shifted. He couldn’t help but feel like a deep pit had been dug in his belly. Ivar swishes the ale in his mouth, swallowing it as if it were bitter.

He sighs, standing up from his seat, “Halt!” he commands. The room goes silent. There isn’t so much as a whisper. Ivar gathers the actors, lining them up in a row for interrogation. He orders the guards to bring the writer responsible for the play. Soon enough, a timid man is put on stage. It was then when you had to beg your husband to spare his life. Ivar lets out a huff, "You should be thanking my wife for sparing you. Don't let it happen again." with that the celebration had come to an end.

You left as fast as you could. Sending your children off to their rooms before returning to your dreadful marital chambers. You ready yourself for bed, hoping that Ivar would return much later. When you hear his footsteps approaching you don't bother to look him in the eye. You help your husband remove his leg braces; since he's only ever let you do it.

When the two of you are finally in bed, Ivar reaches for your waist. He wraps his arms around your body as he held your bodies together. He presses his nose against the top of your hair, whispering, "It was the gods who led me to you my love..." he sighs, breathing in your scent. He hums, "The healers have already informed me." he brushes his hand flat against your mid drift. He feels for the swell of your under belly, one of his favorite things to do. If he could stay like this forever, he would. Ivar reassures you with soft whispers, "There there my love, it is in the past..." as he gently wipes the tears away, cooing as you cried the rest of the night in his arms.

[imtryingbuck]

His queen.

~ gif not mine credit to owner ~

Pairing: Ivar Ragnarsson x fem!Reader

Summary: Ivar takes Floki’s daughter as his wife.

Word count: 2,246

Warnings: mentions of abuse. mentions of murder. fluff. angst.

A/N: thank you anon for sending this request, I’m sorry if it isn’t exactly how you meant but I hope you like it anyway

Masterlist

Floki frowned, tilting his head side to side trying to locate the sound of whimpering, when he finally found it - in an empty barn - his head cocked to the side. A young girl sitting in the corner with her knees pulled up to her chest, bruises and open cuts littering her arms and legs, her hair mattered and bushy, but that’s not what caught his eye - a chain tied tightly around her ankle that was attached to the wall next to her.

“What do we have here?” Floki scrunched up his nose as one of Ragnar's men came up behind him. “She’s mine.”

The Viking pushed by him, making an attempt to approach the young shaking girl, before he could reach out and grab her Floki sunk his axe into the man’s back. “She is no one’s.” Shutting the door to the barn, he slowly moved to the girl. “I am not going to hurt you. I will look after you. Yes, me and my wife will take care of you.”

“P-please don’t-don’t hurt me.”

The boat builder's eyes widened at hearing the Christian speaking his language. “You understand me?” Watching as she nods slowly, he approaches her. “I will not hurt you.”

“You will.”

“I won’t.” Looking around the empty barn he knew the only way to release her from the metal chain was by using his axe. “Who did this to you?”

“M-my family.”

“In the farmhouse?” She nods again, still keeping her head down. He smirks with pride at knowing he had killed the people in the small farmhouse. “They are dead.”

It was only then when she looked up at him, his heart aching when he sees the pain and fear in her eyes. “They a-are?”

“Yes, I killed them.” She doesn’t say anything, only nodding. “My wife, my dear Helga, she will look after you.”

“W-why?”

“The Gods they’ve brought me to you for a reason.” He nods, mainly to himself. “Don’t be afraid.”

Ragnar didn’t bat an eye when Floki brought a young, disheveled girl out of the barn, nor did he bat an eye when his closest friend announced that he was taking said girl home with him.

When they got back to camp, Helga cried as she cleaned the girls body and open wounds, cried even more when Floki told her that the girl in her arms was going to be their daughter.

“Y/n slow down!” Helga chuckled as her daughter ran through the cluttered house. “Please be careful.”

“Always am.” She shouted back. Running out of the door and towards the ocean where her father was standing on an unfinished boat. “Uncle Ragnar!”

The man only had a second to catch his bearings when Y/n jumped on his back. “Ah, Floki help a monster has me!”

“I am not a monster, uncle Ragnar!”

“No? Who are you then?”

“It’s me.” Using the man as a climbing frame, she rested her head on his shoulder. “Y/n.”

“Ah, the monster speaks I see.” Floki laughs as she pouts, just seconds before she screams as Ragnar flips her over his shoulder. “How are you today?”

“I’m okay, I’ve been helping my mother clean and cook. How are you?”

“I’m well.” He says as he playfully ruffles her hair. “I need your help, little monster.”

“With what?”

“In understanding the Christian ways and your God.”

“Ah. Sit down.” She sits on a log that her papa hadn’t sanded down yet as he and her uncle get as comfortable as they could on the hard ground, she begins to explain the way of her people, giggling softly as Floki rolls his eyes causing him to grin at the sound, whilst Ragnar hung onto every word and asked questions. “Anything else?”

“Yes, why are you Christians weird?” Floki asked, Ragnar rolled his eyes at his best friend's question.

“Why are you Vikings weird?”

Floki’s shocked gasp had her giggling once more. “We are not!”

“Yes you are!”

“Are not.”

“Are.”

“Now, now children.” Ragnar intervened as he stood up and stretched his limbs. “But your father is right, you Christians are weird little monster.”

Standing up she takes a step forward. “Take it back!”

“Nope.” Grinning from ear to ear he takes a step back.

Floki watches from his spot on the ground as his daughter chases after his oldest and only friend with a soft smile on his lips, it widens when he sees his wife standing in the doorway of the home they built together a smile on her beautiful face as she too watches the scene. After the death of their daughter Angrboda she never thought she would ever have another child then Floki brought Y/n back to the camp with him, she loved her from the moment her husband said that the sweet girl in her arms was now theirs. Helga cried in Floki’s arms the same night Y/n opened up and told them everything her family put her through, the horrendous abuse she suffered was all because she wanted more from life - to explore and learn, be something more than a wife and a mother, she fought constantly with her family not knowing why wanting to be free was such a bad thing, the abuse got worse the more she fought for her freedom.

Their hearts ached hearing her at night crying out begging for help, Floki watching hopelessly from the door as his wife tried to bring her back to the land of the living and reassure her that everything was okay and that she was safe, promising her that no one was ever to going to hurt her again, coaxing her back to sleep with a story. The first time Y/n called them mama and papa Floki choked on his mead whilst Helga stabbed herself in the finger with a needle, a huge smile on her sweet face as she proudly showed her parents the large fish she had caught with her bare hands, from that moment she called them her parents.

In the first few months of being brought home Y/n barely smiled or ate anything, hardly spoke but now two years later the only time they got any peace of quiet was when she was asleep, Floki would watch in fascination as she would be sat around the table stuffing her face full of food and would still trying to talk about everything she had seen that day. She still wasn’t used to going out into the village and being surrounded by people - the last time she went with Helga to the market she stood protectively behind her mother as her eyes scanned everyone around them, giving people the death stare when they got too close.

The only people she was close to was her parents, Ragnar and his sons - still slightly nervous around Aslaug

Helga’s smile widened as a soft chuckle slipped past her lips when Y/n’s cheerful screams pierced the quietness as Ragnar began chasing after her. “Mama! Help me!”

“Come here sweet girl!”

Ragnar was too engrossed in chasing the girl he saw as his own daughter that he didn’t see his youngest son sitting by the tree with a frown on his face - not understanding why his own father would prefer to spend time with this weird girl and not him or his brothers.

Queen Aslaug was dead - Lagertha had killed her in front of everybody. King Ragnar was dead - king Aelle had him thrown into a pit full of poisonous snakes. And now Tanaruz, a little girl she didn’t trust from the moment they met had murdered her dear precious mama.

Her fathers pained cries broke her heart, she kept telling her parents that they shouldn’t trust the Moorish girl but they didn’t listen and now they lost their wife and mum.

Now she was back on her homeland with the great heathen army to avenge Ragnar's death. Bjorn kept asking her where the best place was for them to attack from, completely ignoring Ivar’s plans.

“Here.” She points at the map on the small table in front of them. “You will have a better advantage from here, it’s higher up and-”

“I already said that.” Ivar interrupted her, his arms crossed over his chest. “You don’t know what you are talking about.”

“However, if you set up here and here, you have a greater chance of success.” Smirking at the youngest son of Ragnar as she moves the pieces around the map. “Where you had it set up won’t work.”

“I- how do you know that?”

“Because where you wanted to attack from would have half of your men killed instantly.” Tracing her finger along the map, tapping to make sure everyone was focused. “Right here has been set up as a trap, it looks normal yet when you stand on it you’ll fall onto spikes.”

“They could have done that in the place where you want to attack from.”

“No, because no one is stupid enough to attack from that side.”

“Why not?” Bjorn asked, his eyes scanning the map.

“It’s the entrance, meaning when they see you they will all set up there.” All five brothers, king Harald, his brother Halfdan and even Floki were all looking at her in confusion. Rolling her eyes as a sigh left her lips, pointing at the mark where Ivar had placed. “This place wouldn’t be guarded. You only show half of the army at the front; they won’t realise that the other half is approaching from the back.”

“That won’t-”

“Work? Yes it will, when they realise half of them will run towards this side, which means this side will have-”

“A greater chance of success.” Ivar cuts her off again, this time a smile on his lips.

“Exactly.” She grins at him. “And before you ask, the best time to attack is in two days.”

“Why in two days?”

“They already know that we are here, it will take at least six days for help to come and we’ve been here for three. Those that will come won’t be able to get back in time to warn anyone else which-”

“Means that Aelle will have less men around him.”

“Correct. Now if you don’t mind I’m going to get some food.”

They all say their goodbyes to her as she leaves the tent, Floki’s eyes are on Ivar as his own are on Y/n - a soft smile on his lips. “Don’t even think about it cripple.”

“I don’t know what you are talking about.”

Two days later Y/n waited in the camp until she heard the horn. Smiling to herself as it meant they were successful.

A blood covered Floki had a huge smile on his lips as Y/n came through the gates on her horse, jumping off as soon as she saw her father and running straight into his open arms. “I told you I would be okay.”

“I know but I still worry.”

“Y/n! Ivar wants you.” Ubbe shouts from the steps, grinning as she nods and pulls away from Floki.

“Why are you grinning?”

“We won thanks to you.” He wraps his arm around her shoulders, instantly removing himself as he feels her tense. “Sorry.”

“It’s okay.”

Ubbe led her towards the great hall where Ivar was sitting and waiting, the youngest waved off his older brother with a flick of his hand, leaving just the two of them in the room neither one spoke for a few minutes. “You were right.”

“I know.”

“Catch.” He says as he throws a crown. “Put it on.”

“Why?”

“I’m going to be king and I want you by my side as my queen.”

“What?”

“We’ll get married after we defeat Aelle, then we will both sit on my parents' thrones.”

“I- are- what?”

“I thought you were smart, what aren’t you getting?”

“I don’t understand why you want me as a wife or queen?”

Standing with a groan, his crutch echoes loudly as he walks over to her. “You use to help Ragnar with plans, you help Floki design boats, you have helped our win today and you will help us defeat Aelle, why wouldn’t I want you as my wife and queen?”

“My father will not-”

“Of course he will.” Taking her hand in his, he squeezes lightly. “We will rule together - equally.”

“Equally?”

“Yes.”

“Okay.”

“Okay?”

“I'll be your wife.”

He grins. “And queen.”

They defeated king Aelle thanks to Y/n and Ivars plans. The next day they were married. Floki wasn’t too pleased but knew that Ivar wouldn’t harm her despite his anger issues.

When they got back to Kattegat Ivar helped her sit on his mothers throne, pressing a kiss to her lips before announcing that he and Y/n was now their king and queen.

Within the first year of them on the throne Kattegat was thriving better than ever before. They both planned raids, all being successful. Ivar the Boneless became a name that everyone in the world knew and feared, yet it was Y/n who had become more famous than her husband - everyone knew she was the one who worked behind the scenes, she was the one that planned raids and made plans to expand Kattegat.

Everyone thought that Ivar, a man, a husband, a king, would be jealous of his wife, yet he couldn’t be prouder to have her by his side as his wife.

Tags: @cheesesandwichsanto