#aethelflaed lady of mercia

[theladyofmercia]

Raised in the palace of Wessex, afforded an education most women are denied, and trained in sword craft, I learned much while seated beside my father, King Alfred. My intelligence and free thought, however, is not appreciated by my husband, Lord Aethelred of Mercia, who styles himself a king. I reside now at my estate in Saltwic, with my most trusted advisor, Aldhelm, and my maid, Sable.

Divider made by @zaldritzosrose

Age: mid-20s-30s

Nationality: West Saxon

Religion: Christian

Sexuality: HetFlex

Status: Married to Aethelred of Mercia (but not living together - he tried to have me killed, the turd)

Weapon: sword, my alliances

Associated with @thelastkingdomrp group

RP open via asks or reblogs

[theladyofmercia]

She smiles at Aldhelm. "I am relieved to hear it, and you have my thanks for attending to things in my absence."

Aldhelm's loyalty will forever be a blessing to her, and she closes her eyes for a moment as their foreheads touch. Aethelflaed steps back after a few moments.

"I am glad to be home," she says softly, "though for now, I should like to take a brief rest in my chambers. If anyone needs me, I will take visitors." She smiles again and gives Aldhelm a gentle squeeze on a hand.

@askaldhelm @askuhtredragnarson @thedarkprinceofulaid

The Lady of Mercia enters the manor, having finally returned from Aegelesburg to deal with her husband. She passes her closest advisor as she moves toward her chambers, and stops to address him.

"Aldhelm, please ask Sable to tell all of our guests to attend dinner tonight. I wish to discuss everything that has occurred and offer what help I am able."

Aethelflaed smiles. "I assume all else has been well in my absence?"

- @theladyofmercia

@askuhtredragnarson @thedarkprinceofulaid @asksihtrickjartansen

Aldhelm rises at once, walking to meet her halfway. "My Lady." He rasps, cupping her cheek with one hand and her hip with the other.

He looks at her as though he is trying to discover something awry. But he cannot find a beautiful strawberry blond hair out of place. He breathes a sigh of relief and his body lets go some of the tension. "All went well, My Lady." He leans in to press his forehead against her own.

"I am glad to have you home again. I get ... a little heartsick when you are not by my side..."

[w1ckedgal]

The last kingdom x Labour by Paris Paloma

Inspired by this post

[ancestorsalive]

Photo: Statue of Aethelflaed, Lady of the Mercians, who passed away in 918. Her nephew Aethelstan, future king of all England, looks up at her.

"Aethelflaed was one of three daughters of Alfred the Great, and her name meant "noble beauty". She married Aethelraed of Mercia at some point during the 880s and while this union meant a strong alliance between Wessex and Mercia the pair embarked on a "Mercian revival" with the city of Worcester at its centre.

When Aethelraed died in 911 after years of ill-health Aethelflaed remained as Lady of Mercia and held this position until her death, making her the only female ruler of a kingdom during the entire Anglo-Saxon era. The only compromise she made was to agree to her brother Edward, now king of Wessex, taking some of Mercia's southern lands under his control.

Their father Alfred the Great had fortified dozens of Wessex towns as "burhs" and Edward continued this work, connecting his burhs with those in Mercia to represent a united front against viking incursions, and it wasn't long before this was put to the test.

A force of vikings, pushed out of Ireland, landed in the mouth of the Dee after unsuccessfully trying to take land in Wales, and asked Aethelflaed if they could settle for a time outside the old Roman walled town of Chester. Permission was granted but the Norsemen raided and robbed the area at will so Aethelflaed led a force to shut them down. She had Chester fortified and waited for the inevitable viking attack, it came and was repulsed, the Scandinavian chancers sent packing in complete disarray.

This same Norse army was brought to battle at Tettenhall near Wolverhampton where Aethelflaed's forces destroyed them. The writing was now on the wall - the vikings had to go. Together with Edward she raided deep into Danelaw territory on a mission to rescue the bones of St Oswald - who had been killed and ritually dismembered by the pagan king of Mercia Penda - from a church in Lincolnshire then brought the relics down to Gloucestershire where a new church was built to house them...more on that presently.

The burhs continued to be built, and the Dane strongholds fell as Aethelflaed campaigned hard against them. Her forces defeated three Norse armies before finally taking the city of Derby, then Leicester, before the Danes of York came to her to pledge their loyalty. The vikings in Anglia capitulated to Edward and so all of England south of Northumbria was now back under Anglo-Saxon rule.

Aethelflaed died at Tamworth in 918 and so will be forever associated with the town, but she was carried down to Gloucestershire to be buried in the church she had built for St Oswald. Unfortunately the monastery there fell into decline over the centuries, was dissolved in 1536, then almost completely destroyed during the English Civil War. Nobody knows where Aethelflaed's resting place is now, but the ruins of St Oswalds are as good a place as any as a pilgrimage destination for those wishing to follow in the footsteps of the Lady of Mercia." - Source: Hugh Williams via Medieval England on FB.

Photo: Statue of Aethelflaed and Aethelstan at Tamworth Castle, by EG Bramwell, unveiled in 1913.

[grlwtskulltattoo]

Lady of Mercia - Aethelflaed - The Last Kingdom

Season 4 Episode 1

Screencap & edited by @grlwtskulltattoo

@theladyofmercia

[lord-aldhelm]

Æthelred and Æthelflæd of Mercia: Medieval England’s most important marriage?

Came across This Article yesterday and thought I would share it.

It goes into great detail about Lord Aethelred and Lady Aethelflaed. Aethelred in real life was nothing like he was portrayed in the show or books. He respected King Alfred as his overking, treated Aethelflaed as an equal, and was a competent leader and fought side by side with Edward the Elder. In fact Edward trusted Aethelred and Aethelflaed to foster his firstborn son Aethelstan. Interesting read.

[all-that-is-gold-is-now-gone]

i still have the taste of you on my tongue.

(dealers choice. Bring it.)

Aethelflaed smiled gently with a soft giggle and leaned down kissing Aldhelm on the lips gently where he lay in the bed, "Do you? Well, I am afraid that will have to last for a bit. I have to go to work." She kissed him again before straightening up and wandering into the bathroom to get ready for work.

"I have a work thing tonight, a kinda drinks and dinner type thing." Aethelflaed said as she began to get ready for the day, "do you wanna come with me?"

[thenobleone]

Sabía que los cotilleos y chismes se habían extendido desde la posesión de Aethelflaed sobre Mercia. El rey se había mantenido unánime, sin juicios ni altercados; aunque por su cuenta debía notarse su posición. Dejándose llevar por la supuesta presión, se dispuso a visitar la tierra de su hija, o mejor dicho, de la lady de Mercia. Vería por su cuenta cómo lo hacía.

⚔️ @sweetquccn

[frary-us]

STUNNING profile shot of Aethelred/Toby. How can someone look so angelic yet be so idiotic & evil?😍😡🤷‍♀️😂

Aethelred | TLK

[whitedarkmoonflower]

Caged bird

Pairing: Sihtric x reader (female)

Authors note: I felt so sorry for the load of angst I dumped on you this week. Have this little treat as a compensation.

Warnings: SMUT 18+

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

Word Count: 2,3 K

A startled yelp escaped your lips as you felt two strong arms encircle your waist, swiftly pulling you into one of the nearby empty rooms. Your arms were laden with fresh beddings as you were swept away. 

A hand promptly covered your mouth, muffling any sound, while searingly hot breath caressed your neck, followed by hungry lips that sent shivers coursing up and down your spine,  as you struggled to catch your breath. Words were unnecessary; you would always recognise those lips, the rough yet tender touch of those hands, and the heat of that familiar breath against your skin.

You let go of the bundle of linens, allowing them to scatter across the floor, disregarding them entirely. Your fingers found solace in the soft, thick strands of hair, urging the eager mouth closer as you arched your back against the sturdy wooden door.

"This is madness, Sihtric," you murmured softly, barely audible, as the hand that had covered your mouth now ventured downward, caressing your breasts through the fabric of your dress. Hot lips followed, leaving a trail of kisses from your collarbone to your shoulder and back down to the curve of your cleavage.

"We can't... I can't... Oh, God, Sihtric," your protest dissolved into a gasp as an eager hand boldly gathered the fabric of your skirt, slipped beneath it and delved behind the hem of your undergarment, reaching your core.

"Don't deny me," a throaty whisper, laden with longing, brushed against your ear, eliciting a soft whine from your lips, as your legs spread on their own, without waiting any conscious command from you, the heat in your belly hitting you with the force of a thunderstorm. "I know you crave me as much as I crave you."

Thick fingers parted your folds, ravenously ravaging your dripping cunt. As much as you tried, you were unable to suppress the lewd moan, clawing through you as Sihtric pushed one finger inside you. 

"God, forgive me," you panted breathlessly, your fingers entwining in Sihtric's hair, pulling firmly, as you shamelessly rolled your hips into his hand. "More... I need you. Please, give me more," you pleaded into Sihtric's ear. With a mischievous glint dancing in his eyes, he obliged, adding another digit and starting to pump them in and out of your tightness, his thumb brushing against your sensitive bundle of nerves..

“Such a needy little girl. Missed me so much,” Sihtric’s breath was picking up, a low groan reverberating in his throat, as you clenched around his fingers. “Let it go, my little bird. My sweet, beautiful girl. Give it to me. I want to see you flying again, I want to hear you calling my name.” 

And you did as you were told, not that you had any choice, you were already crumbling, falling apart, your eyes rolling back in your head, his power over you beyond your comprehension, as you had never felt anything like this before. Breath catching, you dug your fingers into the thick leather covering Sihtric’s shoulders, whimpering his name between panting breaths.

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

The looming threat of war hung heavy in the air. A large army of Danes was gathering at the borders of Mercia. The word had been spread that Lady Aethelflaed was rallying forces to defend the kingdom from the impending Danish invasion. The prospects appeared grim, with Lord Aethelred and his household troops delayed in East Anglia. Your husband, wary of sending his men to certain death, as he repeatedly voiced, preferred to await the outcome from the shadows. 

The choice was taken from him one rainy day with Lady Aethelflaed at his doorsteps, demanding lodging for herself and her war council, the scarce army setting up a camp in the nearby field.

As the lady of the house, you stood in the yard, welcoming esteemed guests and trying to offset your husband's stern demeanour with a warm smile. You courtseyed Lady Aethelflaed and greeted Lord Aldhelm, and Lord Uhtred, as introduced by the Lady. Your attention then shifted to the three other men dismounting their horses, and it was then that you saw him for the first time.

Tall, athletic, with broad shoulders and muscular arms, he stood in stark contrast to your husband and any other man you had encountered, not that you had encountered many.  

You couldn't help but stare at him, feeling a blush creeping onto your cheeks and a slight shiver down your spine, as your eyes scanned his handsome sharply defined face with a strong jawline, involuntary stopping at his crazy haircut - dark curls cascaded to his right eye, while the other side of the head was shaved with beads and pearls woven into the hairline. 

He casually handed the reins to a stable boy and joined his companions, his hearty laughter momentarily distracting you from the solemn reason for their presence in your husband’s estate.

Sihtric’s lips crushed against your parted ones, eagerly swallowing your moans and whines, his kiss searingly hot, as he kept fucking you with his fingers through your high. 

"We must stop this, Sihtric. It's not right. It's a sin," you whimpered, your chest rising and falling heavily. Yet your hands spoke a different language, clutching onto him, drawing him nearer, a soft whine escaping your lips as Sihtric withdrew his fingers.

"Tell me to stop, and I will. Say you are happy in your gilded cage, that you don’t love me, don’t desire me, and I'll disappear from your life forever," Sihtric's forehead pressed against yours, his hands on your waist. Was he holding his breath?

Your teeth grazed your lower lip as you reached out, tracing your fingers along the scars on his face. How could you deny what was so obvious?

"I love you," you breathed, drawing him into another kiss, allowing the fervour of his eager lips to carry you away from this place, from the mundanity of your existence, into another world where you were free to choose your own path, where you were free to love and be loved, if only for this fleeting moment of happiness.

“I want you to be mine,” Sihtric groaned against your mouth, “I want you to come with me, to leave this place and that old coot you call your husband. I’ll provide for you, care for you,  worship the ground you walk on.” His covetous hands roamed your body, words flowing from his lips like a sweet wine, dizzying and inebriating. 

He lifted you effortlessly in his strong arms, your legs instinctively wrapping around his waist as he carried you to the table at the back of the room and settled you onto it, hastily pulling your undergarment down your legs.

"The mere thought of him touching you, makes my blood run cold," he hissed, positioning himself between your thighs. "You are mine. Do you hear me? Mine to claim, mine to cherish, mine to love. I need you like I need air to breathe. You cannot deny me."

You licked your lips as you watched him freeing his hard cock from his breeches, giving it a few strokes and aligning himself with your entrance.

“Come to me, claim me,” you purred, your eyes half lid as you reached out for him.

The force with which Sihtric sinked into you made you whine out loud, your nails digging into his shoulders for support. With a throaty moan he sheathed himself to the very end of his shaft, his lips on your neck, arm around your waist to hold you in place, and started thrusting into you with a maddening pace. 

“Say it again,” he demanded, voice low and hoarse, his hips moving against yours, forcing himself deeper and deeper with each thrust, “I need to hear it.”

“I love you,“ you whimpered between your panting breaths.

“Say that you are mine.”

"I'm yours," you mewled, clinging to him as if your life depended on it. Lost in the throes of pleasure, you would have said anything he desired without a second thought. Yet, it was not a lie, in this fleeting moment you were indeed his, wholly and willingly.

You were but a girl, tightly gripping your mother's hand, your curious gaze fixed upon the stranger seated at the table with your father.  You had no idea that this was the moment your future was decided, sealed with a simple handshake.

Your father had meant well, eager to secure a husband and livelihood for his youngest daughter. Grateful, as a dutiful daughter ought to be, you accepted his decision. Five years later, just after your first bleeding, you found yourself murmuring prayers outside the church, pondering what your husband might be like.

The slight silver glinting in his hair and the wrinkles etched around his eyes went unnoticed by you as you placed your hand in his, obediently casting your eyes downward—a dutiful daughter transforming into a dutiful wife.

Apart from the vows exchanged at the altar, he hadn't truly spoken to you; instead, he observed you with the detached gaze of a horse trader appraising a fine mare. It was only later in the night as your new wed husband grunted in your ear, slapping his hips at your bare ass from behind, that you wondered whether this was how love was supposed to feel. 

He wasn't cruel, nor was he kind. He simply possessed you. Your life flowed on like a tranquil river—no hidden currents, no waterfalls, not even the playful splash of waves against a rocky shore. There was no affection, only indifference and emptiness. But you had nothing to compare to, you couldn’t even tell why those hot tears trailed down your cheeks in the evenings as you curled up in your bed, watching your husband tug himself back in his breeches and depart without a backward glance. 

"I'm yours. I'll always be yours," the words flowed effortlessly from your lips, not daring to think, not daring to tear your eyes away from the mismatched gaze, burning you, consuming you. The throaty groan they coaxed from Sihtric made a smile curl on your parted lips and you rolled your hips against him, meeting his thrusts with eagerness matching his.

The sound of flesh slapping against flesh filled the small room, your moans mingling with Sihtric’s panting breaths. His hand slipped between your bodies, finding your clit and rubbing against it. You bit your lip trying at least to somewhat muffle the cries of pleasure pulsing through you.

“My greedy princess, my little caged bird, taking my cock so well,” Sihtric breathed in your ear. “So fucking tight around me. You are made for my cock, you are made for me. Made to be fucked into oblivion every night, to be filled up with my seed, to carry my children.”

You had never been loved like this. In truth, you had never really been loved at all. You were starving and you were lost from that very first moment your eyes locked with his piercing gaze.

You attempted to evade him, striving to stifle the tempest of emotions raging within you. Your knees throbbed from hours of prayer, beseeching salvation from the sinful yearning he ignited, yet your pleas remained unheard. 

In the evening, despite your efforts, your eyes kept seeking out his familiar figure in the grand hall, torn between dread and longing for your gazes to meet.

And meet they did. Initially, fleetingly, causing your cheeks to flush pink once more, just like the first time in the yard. Hastily, you averted your eyes, diverting yourself with meaningless conversations. Yet, as the evening unfolded, it happened repeatedly—the moments your gazes lingered on each other lengthening with each time.

You lacked the strength to turn him away when he found you later that night, seated in the small garden, seeking solace in the cool night air to banish thoughts of the handsome stranger from your mind. Your resolve crumbled as he tenderly kissed your palm, drawing you closer against his muscular frame. The touch of Sihtric's lips upon yours left you breathless and trembling, excitement coursing through your veins, torn between the desire to flee and the urge to surrender to his embrace.

That night you actually made love for the first time in your life, hot tears streaming down your cheeks as you whispered his name into the darkness like a fervent prayer.

Never could you have imagined that this would evolve into something more than just a single night of passion and regret yet here you were struggling for breath, the most sinful sensation ripping you apart, as Sihtric was fucking you senseless, again. 

You wrapped your arms around his neck and pressed your lips to his, moaning into Sihtric’s mouth, as your walls started clenching around him and you came on his cock, your head snapping back, his name rolling over your lips and mingling with the wild moans of pleasure you were unable to control. A few thrusts later he followed you, groaning in the crook of your neck as he spilled deep inside you.

"I love you, my little caged bird. I love you, and I'll come for you, take you with me," Sihtric breathed heavily, pressing his forehead against yours, his eyes searching, pleading for agreement.

"Sihtric, you know it's impossible," you whispered, holding onto him tightly, wishing to prolong this moment just a little longer.

"I don't care about your husband. He doesn't deserve you. He treats you like you're a piece of furniture. He shows more affection to his horse than to you," venom dripped from Sihtric's voice. Though everything he said was true, it didn't change anything.

"Stop it!" you cried out, tears welling up in your eyes. "Stop it," you pleaded, your voice breaking into soft sobs. "If you truly care for me, then stop. It will be hard enough to see you leave for battle tomorrow."

"I will come back," there was not a hint of doubt in his voice as his lips sealed his promise with a tender kiss.

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Tags: @sihtricfedaraaahvicius @hb8301 @zillahvathek @alexagirlie @gemini-mama @verenahx @mysteriouslydeafeningwerewolf @willowbrookesblog @thenameswinter99 @ellabellabus07 @mcbuckyyyy @kirtseinw @siimonesvensson @sigtryggrswifey

[mommytauriel]

+ · 。~ promised to another p3

pairing: sihtric x female! reader | genre: forbidden romance? Angst, fluff | warnings: none that I know of | wc: 6.3k |

synopsis: eight months since everything in your life has changed, and it seems like things won't stop changing.

request: yes

note: I’m so sorry this took so long for me to get out! I was just really struggling on writing this part! This is more like a filler part. I do still hope you guys enjoy it!

Part one Part two Part three

The first week being back in Winchester was hard, actually the first few months being back in Winchester was hard…in many different ways.  Mentally you were exhausted, staying up late at night and stressing yourself to sleep thinking about Uhtred, and what he's going through. You didn't even want to think about how emotionally hard it was for you. The guilt you felt, the pain you felt with Uhtred gone and you leaving sihtric. 

It was physically hard because you were exhausted. You spent your nights staying up late, crying and thinking about Uhtred and sihtric. And when you did finally fall asleep, you didn't get to sleep for long because Lady Aelswith would make sure you were up so you could join her for morning prayers and breakfast with Aethelflaed. 

The fourth month you were tired of being sad, so you forced yourself to leave your room more. It wasn't healthy to lock yourself up in your room and avoid everyone. Matthew was happy to see that you were starting to get better, he had missed you. Matthew was against it at first because he was worried you would get hurt, but the two of you would go on walks through the village of Winchester. He noticed that it was helping you so he kept his worries to himself and just stayed alert. 

By the six month you were feeling more like yourself. You still had your moments of sadness; you just now knew how to handle them better. You have started doing many things to distract yourself from your feelings, you did a lot of reading, most of them being books that King Alfred has suggested. You spent more time with Matthew and Aethelflaed, Aethelflaed even joining you and Matthew on your walks. It was nice. 

The seventh month is when things started to feel more real for you. King Alfred had been lenient with you for the prior months but now that you seemed more yourself, he wasn't going to hold back. Whenever he had time, the two of you would be in his study, reading and learning more about history. And you enjoyed it most of the time, but when he would bring up Arthur and your future with him…your enjoyment turned to dread. You didn't want to talk about Arthur and the doom of your future with him. Lady Aelswith would try to talk to you about Arthur too, telling you about her and the king's betrothal and how she didn't like it at first but it was her duty to become a good wife to him. She even offered to teach you some ways on becoming a good wife, and well you couldn't exactly decline. You didn't want to learn how to be a good wife, you didn't want to be a wife in general! 

The eighth month was no different. 

Throughout those eight months you barely saw Arthur. Then again, you were also actively avoiding the blue-eyed man. It also helped that Arthur was very busy, busy with the king or busy going back and forth from Mercia and Winchester. You weren't complaining. The two of you have talked a few times, well more like he talked, and you just ‘listened’. A small part of you felt a little bad for treating Arthur like that, a very small part. Arthur has been kind to you, and you hated it. 

The garden in the back of the castle had quickly become your place of solace and solitude. If you went early enough in the morning, you would be completely alone…besides the times Matthew would join you. It was a very peaceful place; you could walk around and look at the flowers or sit at the bench and read…or just sit there and think. Today you were reading. 

Before you met sihtric you enjoyed reading love stories, but now you couldn't bear to read one. Just like how you couldn't dare to see public affection, it all reminded you of sihtric. And how you couldn't be with him. It hurt seeing or reading someone being so happy and in love when you weren't. You would feel a tug at your heart and soon your eyes would water it really hurt. So now you stick to history books, they aren't as fun but now you don't have to worry about crying while reading it. 

“What book are you reading today My lady?” A deep and familiar voice breaks you out of your thoughts. You blink a few times and look up from the page you have been reading over and over again. You squint your eyes from the bright sun that shines, when you look up at Matthew's figure. He was standing in front of you, clad in his black leather armor with his hands behind his back, a small smile on his face as he looked down at you. 

“The same book I was reading yesterday Matthew” You retorted with a sigh, closing the book and playing with the leather corners of the book cover. Matthew hums in remembrance, his eyes looking over your figure. He was happy to see that you look way better than you did months ago, you looked well rested. But he could still see some sadness in your eyes. 

“Lady Aethelflaed requests you to join her for breakfast” Matthew tells you, watching as your eyes lighten up at the mention of your dear friend. You stand up from the bench and with your free hand that's not holding your book, you fix your dress. You offer Matthew a small smile “Let's go then, wouldn't want to keep the princess waiting.” 

Matthew nods and leads the way towards Lady Aethelflaed’s room, She had breakfast sent to her room for the two of you. The two of you enjoyed your mornings where you had breakfasts together, the safety of being alone in her room let the two of you gossip as much as you wanted without getting scolded by Lady Aelswith. 

The two of you stopped in front of Aethelflaeds’s room, you greeted the guard who stood out of her room with a small smile while Matthew greeted him with a nod. Matthew softly knocked on the lady's door for you before he stepped back. You heard the sound of feet rushing towards the door and not even a few seconds later the wood door was being opened quickly. A smiling Aethelflaed greeting you.  

“Y/n! I've missed you, come in” Lady Aethelflaed smiles as she grabs your arm and pulls you into her room, you laugh at her eagerness and let her drag you into her room. You glance behind you to see Matthew giving a smile before he closes the door, leaving the two of you alone. You look back at her and see a wide smile on her face and a giggle escape past your lips. “You saw me yesterday Aethelflaed.” 

“I know that but still, i missed you” She giggled herself as she let go of your arm and walked towards the table in her room, which the two of you have eaten at many times before. You set your book on her bed before you follow her across her room. The princess’s room had a bunch of vases of flowers that the two of you had handpicked, her room was so fresh and comfy. 

“This looks delicious” you tell her as you look over the spread of food and drinks on the table. Athelflaed smiles and sits down at the table, pouring herself a cup of water “I asked for some of your favorites.” 

“You truly do spoil me” You send her a teasing wink as you sit down in the chair across from her, popping a green grape in your mouth. Athelflaed blushes and starts eating some of the fruit on her plate. You smile at her shy antics before you start digging into your food. It wasn't long before the two of you jumped into a conversation. 

“I know I have said this hundreds of times, but I'm so glad that you're back. It's nice to have someone I can talk to without worrying, mother is going to find out about what we have talked about” Aethelflaed tells you with a genuine smile after the two of you stopped laughing from the conversation beforehand. (The conversation being about a cute stable hand boy that had caught Athelflaeds attention) It was adorable seeing her so flustered talking about him, it kinda reminded you about how if was for you and sihtric. 

Athelflaed’s words comforted you and made you sad at the same time. They were comforting because you truly did miss her too, but they were sad because if it was up to you…you wouldn't have come back. Sometimes at night while you lay alone in your dark room, you would think about what you would be doing now if you never left, if Uhtred was never sold. You would have nights filled with laughter at ale houses with Uhtred and there was no doubt that you and sihtric would become closer. Maybe I would have told him I loved him already…I’ll never know now. 

“Speaking of missing you, I may or may not have overheard Arthur talking with my dad last night” Aethelflaed’s sweet but mischievous voice breaks you out of your sad thoughts. You blink a few times and look up from your plate to her. You raise your eyebrow at her words, stopping yourself from rolling your eyes at the mention of Arthur. You grip your fork tighter and give her a faint smirk “Overheard? You mean you eavesdropped?” 

“Y/n” She said with an embarrassed whine, gently kicking you under the table before continuing with a mischievous grin on her face “Don't you want to know what they were talking about?” 

“I have a feeling you were going to tell me anyway” You recalled from past memories, you knew she was going to tell you anyway. Aethelflaed doesn't pick up on the sarcasm in your town and she leans forward, excitement in her tone “They were talking about you, well more like Arthur was talking about you…he seems quite smitten with you.” 

“I don't know how he could be, we've barely talked” You responded with a confused look and annoyance in your tone. How could he be smitten with me? You made sure that the two of you had barely any chance to talk. You don't want him to like you, no you want him to hate you…it would make it easier if he did. It didn't feel right knowing that someone was liking you like that, it felt as if you were betraying sihtric in a way. You didn't like this feeling. 

“Arthur is a really nice guy y/n! You should give him a chance, who knows you might even find yourself liking him” Aethelflaed says cheerfully, again not noticing your tone. Aethelflaed has always wanted to fall in love, to have someone by her side for everything. Her desire to have that kinda love, blinded her from the negative parts that came with it. She didn't see the negative parts of your betrothal to arthur. But how could she? She didn't know about me and sihtric. 

She didn't know about how you were feeling, the feeling of being trapped in a relationship you didn't want, the heartbreak you felt with sihtric. There was no chance that you could find yourself liking arthur. To you, Arthur was just the guy that's ruining the happy future you hoped you and sihtric would have together. Maybe it was ruined the moment you left eoferwic. 

“Not likely” 

It seems my luck has run out; you think with a bitter sigh when you see who's standing at the other end of the hall. You had just left Aethelflaed’s room a few minutes ago after spending a few hours laughing and talking, you then parted ways with Matthew who was called off to do something. You were in a happy mood but that quickly joined to a mood of annoyance when you see your betrothed standing across from you, a smile on his face. 

“Lady y/n, I've been meaning to talk to you” Arthur says with a sweet smile as he steps closer to you. Your grip on your book tightens and you hold it to your chest, you offer him a weak smile. 

“I apologize but I have to get going, maybe another time” You spoke quietly as you tried to walk past him, only to stop dead in your tracks when you felt Arthur softly grab your arm to stop you. You let out a sigh, you knew you couldn't avoid him this time. You turn to face him and see him giving you a pleading look. You sigh again and move your arm out of his grip and mutter “You only have a few minutes.” 

“That's all i need” He replied with a charming smile, he cleared his throat before continuing “I wanted to apologize, I've been busy these past months and i haven't spent much time with you, I haven't gotten to know you.” 

“There's not much to know” you say in a dismissive tone, making it your mission to look anywhere but his face. You settle on the flower painting on the wall behind him. Arthur notices the dismissiveness in your tone and your actions, but he still tries to keep the conversation going. So, he ignores it and keeps the smile on his lips. “I don't know about that; I have a feeling there's a lot to know about you.” 

“Feelings can be wrong” You snapped as you finally looked at him, the two of you locked eyes. Arthur could tell that there was more to your words, a lot more meaning. I want to find out, he thinks. “You don't like me, do you?” 

“Is it that obvious?” You ask him sarcastically with a bitter tone as you tilt your head. Arthur stills for a moment and all the confidence he had going into the conversation with you disappears, at the sound of the bitterness in your tone. King Arthur had told him you would not be happy about the betrothal, but he didn't think you would be this difficult, especially with him being so nice to you. Is it going to be like this every time we talk? he thinks with a disappointed sigh. 

“Anything else?” You snapped him out of his thoughts. 

“Your friend uhtred, I saw him walk into the king's study” Arthur spoke with little emotion in his tone, it was obvious you didn't want this…he wasn't going to try so hard for nothing. He was tired of making the first move, one day you were going to realize that whether the two of you like it or not, you will be wed. He will just have to wait until you're willing to try, or when you're in a better mood. 

“Uhtred? He’s here?” your stone-cold persona dropped as soon as his words came out. Chills of shock run through your body, and you find yourself dropping your arms to your side, your grip on your book loosening. Uhtred, the Uhtred who you thought of as a brother was here in Winchester, in the castle? I have to see him. 

“The King doesn't want anyone to know yet, but I thought you should know. I know you guys were close, you must have missed him” he tells you in a soft tone, offering you one smaller smile before leaving you. You stood there for a few moments as you watched him walk away, you watched as his strong posture faltered and his hand moved up to rub the back of his neck. 

There was no denying that you felt bad about how you treated him, he went out of his way to tell you that Uhtred was back. He told you when the king told him that no one must know. He did that for you and all you did was treat him unkindly. You don't let yourself stand there guilty for much longer. I have to see Uhtred. 

You rushed down the hall towards the king's study, holding onto your dress so you won't trip. Your footsteps echo through the hallway, you make an abrupt stop as you turn the corner to the hallway that leads to the king's study. Just as you turn the corner the door at the end of the hallway opens and out steps steapa and matthew, following them is Uhtred. 

You hold your breath and your eyes immediately water at the sight, you pay no attention to steapa and Matthew, you just look straight at uhtred. You couldn't believe it. You watch as he looks up from the ground, he has a look of anger on his face but when he notices you standing at the other end of the hallway, his face softens, and his eyes widen. 

Before you could think, your legs were already rushing towards him, and he met you halfway. You closed your eyes as you threw your arms around his shoulders. You let out a sigh of relief when you felt that he was truly there, he's really here. Uhtred wraps his arms around your waist and holds you close. The pain he felt when you jumped in his arms did not compare to the feeling of relief that he was feeling, you were okay, you were safe. Uhtred tightens his hold on you and just closes his eyes and relishes in the moment. you were really here. 

“Oh Uhtred” You sniffle out, a few tears slowly rolling down your cheeks, you had imagined this moment for months, but this was better than anything you could have imagined. To have him really back. One of his hands moves to cup the back of your head. His heart hurts when he hears you sniffles of sadness, he whispers soothingly “Shh, it's okay little flower, don't cry.” 

“I didn't think i would ever see you again” You cried quietly, your hold on him not loosening. You were afraid to let go, afraid that if you let go of him, he would disappear. Matthew and steapa watch from afar, both of their hearts warm at the heartfelt reunion. 

“It's okay y/n, i'm here now.” 

But for how long was the real question? 

Uhtred didn't stay long. You got the answer to your question.  You tried to be understanding, you knew that what he was going to do was important, important to the king and important to him. But you couldn't help but feel a little upset that he left you so soon. I didn't have enough time with him. After the two of you reunited, you spent the next few hours together talking. Well, more like you talked and he listened. You refrained from telling him about Arthur, you didn't want to ruin the moment. You were surprised when he told you that Lady Gisela was here with him, you would have to see her soon, you missed her. 

He then left you after he promised to see you soon, the next time you saw him was the next day when he was getting ready to leave. You found out two new things that morning, he was leaving, and he had gotten married. You were hurt by the new information. Hurt that he was leaving so soon and hurt that you weren't invited to his and lady Gisela's wedding. But like you said, you tried to be understanding. 

It's okay y/n, he’ll be back soon. You think to yourself as you stand by Lady Aethelflaed’s side, watching as Uhtred and his company leave Winchester. You glance at Gisela who's watching Uhtred leave, a look of sadness on her face. You truly felt for her, her husband just got back, and now he's leaving. You glance at Aethelflaed to see her watching Uhtred go, a look of adoration on her face. Your eyes widened, she looked lovestruck. How interesting. 

You glance back at Uhtred, and you can't help but feel a little emotional as you watch him ride out of sight. You let out a sigh before turning around and walking back into the castle, Matthew following behind you. Both of you were feeling quite down at the moment, you because of Uhtred and him because of Hild..he would never say it aloud, but you knew the truth. 

“Are you alright my lady?” Matthew asks behind you, his voice gentle and worried. You sigh and fold your arms in front of you as you walk towards the gardens in the back of the castle, in the need of some solace. 

“I’m just tired Matthew, I’m just tired.” 

The next day you spent your morning eating breakfast alone in your room, you didn't go out to the garden, instead you read in your quiet room. You didn't really want to see anyone; you also didn't want to run into Arthur. You knew you had to talk to Arthur soon, you had to apologize. But you just weren't ready for that. 

You were peacefully reading until Matthew knocked on your door and let you know that Lady Gisela would like to see you in the village. For a second you considered declining, you were in no mood to be around anyone. But it was Lady Gisela, she knew no one here, she probably felt so alone and out of place. So, you told Matthew yes and you got out of your bed and walked towards your door. 

Matthew greeted you with a small smile when you opened your door, and you greeted him back with a smile of your own, a weak smile. Matthew grew a little worried, he didn't want you to go back to how you were months ago. He wouldn't let that happen, not again. The two of you walked in silence through the castle and to the steps at the entrance of the castle. Standing there at the bottom of the steps was Lady Gisela, a smile forming on her lips when she sees you approaching her. She had missed you. 

“Y/n! thank you for joining me” Gisela beamed as she pulled you into her arms for a hug. You smile softly and hug her back, relaxing into her comforting embrace. After a few moments you pull away and link your arm in hers, the negative feelings you felt earlier were slowly leaving you. “Thank you for inviting me, it will be nice getting out of the castle.” 

“Do you not leave often?” Gisela asks you as the two of you start walking, Matthew walking a few steps behind you. Lady Gisela thought about you a lot through the eight months, like others she was worried about you and how you were taking this change. So, she was happy to see that you were okay, well at least seemed to be okay. 

“Me and Matthew go on walks out of the castle quite a lot, sometimes aethelflaed joins us. But I haven't really had a chance these past few days” you tell her, and she smiles at your words. 

“So, tell me, how has it been living back here in Winchester?” 

“It's definitely been different since the last time I was here, I lived carefree. But now it's…oh never mind” You let out an annoyed sigh when you couldn't put your feelings in words. Gisela frowns and squeezes your arm reassuringly and when you look at her, she gives you a comforting smile.

“It's okay y/n, just tell me what's on your mind” Gisela said softly as she looked at your side profile. What was bothering you so much? She wonders. 

“I am betrothed to Arthur of Mercia” you say quickly before you could stop yourself, you needed to get this off your chest. There was no one else you could talk to about this. You didn't look at Gisela when she gasped at your words, you just kept walking. Gisela’s eyes widen at your words “What? When did this happen?” 

“The king told me the day I came back” You frowned as you looked back on that day, so much sadness and heartbreak. Everything changed that day. 

“And how do you feel about this?” Gisela frowned as well, she had an idea on how you were feeling, and she knew it wasn't a good feeling. She continued to rub your arm reassuringly as the two you walked, she waited for your answer. 

You let out a heavy breath before responding. “I feel a lot of things, but it doesn't matter how I feel, the king has made it clear that it's my duty to marry, my duty to marry Arthur.” 

“Oh y/n, have you told Uhtred? If you are not happy with this you know Uhtred will find a way to stop this” Gisela halted her steps, causing you to stop as well. Matthew stopped a few steps behind the two of you and he looked around, making sure there was no danger to you. You look away from her when you see the look of pity she gives you. I don't want pity; I want a way out of this betrothal. 

“I didn't want him to worry” You shake your head no; you feared Uhtred might try to kill Arthur if he found out. I can't tell Uhtred, not yet. You move to continue walking but Lady Gisela stops you by gently holding onto your arms. You look at her and she gives you a look a look of sympathy and says “He will always worry about you y/n, you know that.” 

“If you ask him to get you out of the betrothal, he will do everything he can to get you out of it” Lady Gisela tells you, her tone serious. You nod and continue walking, Gisela walking by your side. You think about her words, Uhtred has made it clear that he would do anything for you. Would he hurt Arthur? Would he argue with the king? Would he take you away from the castle? You didn't know what he would do, but you knew that what he would do, no matter what it is, would only cause more problems. I didn't want that. I just want my life back to the way it used to be. 

“That's what I’m afraid of” You mumble to yourself as the two of you continue walking. Was there a way to save me from this situation, without things getting bad? There is no way King Alfred would give up on this betrothal, it meant so much for him…well it meant so much for England. You weren't stupid you knew why this was happening, it was for alliances, it was for resources. It wasn't for love. 

It would be love if it was sihtric…

“Who is it?” Her calming voice broke you out of your sad thoughts about your lost lover. You tilt your head and give her a confused look. “What do you mean?” 

“I can see it in your eyes, you're in love. So, who is it?” Lady Gisela repeats her question, watching your side profile for your reaction. So much has happened, she felt bad that she wasn't there to help you with it. Matthew, who overheard the question, stiffened. 

“It’s…it’s sihtric” You whisper to her with a flustered smile. This was the first time you said it aloud. You of course thought about it, you thought about it a lot. But saying it out loud, it made it more real. God, you missed him, every day you wished that you had more time with him. 

“Sihtric?” She repeats his name as she slows down her steps. She had a feeling there was something going on between the two of you, but still. She had hoped you didn't say his name when she asked you. 

“Yes, sihtric he’s- Gisela what's wrong?” You ask her when you noticed she stopped walking with you. She holds onto your forearm and looks at you with sympathy, she didn't know how to tell you this. “Oh y/n i…” 

“What is it?” You give her a confused look, but you start to worry when you notice the look on her face. Why is she looking at me like that? you think anxiously. Matthew took a step forward to the two ladies’, concerned as well. 

“I’m sorry y/n, before I left, I saw him with a woman…they were quite close” Gisela tells you in a soft tone, hoping that it would break the news to you easier. Matthews's grip tightens on the hilt of his sword and his jaw clenched in anger at her words. You felt your arms drop to your side and your heart stop at her words. No no no, sihtric he wouldn't do that, he wouldn't do that to me. You didn't think you knew words to describe how you were feeling at that moment, all that you could say was a quiet and emotionless “Oh.” 

“I could be wrong, sihtric is a good man, he wouldn't do that to you” Lady Gisela says quickly, feeling terrible when she sees the storm of sadness in your eyes, but the emotionless look on your face. She couldn't just not tell you; she couldn't do that to you. But like Gisela said, sihtric is a good man, he wouldn't do that to you, right? Did she see wrong? 

“Are you sure it was him?” You ask her in a weak tone, your eyes begging her to realize that she did see wrong. You don't think you could handle another heartbreak, not like this. You move your hand to your side, finding it hard to breathe with the tight dress and your panicky state. I’m not okay, everything is not okay, I can't do this anymore. 

“Yes…but like i said, i could be wrong” Gisela tells you, but you don't focus on her words, in fact you couldn't really focus on anything. It felt as if you were stuck and everything was moving past you, you were stuck…you were alone. You started to feel overwhelmed and started to breathe heavily as the sounds around you got too loud and the sound of your heartbeat was pounding through your ears. I need to get out of here.  

“I apologize Lady Gisela, I'm not feeling too well, I should retire to my room” You weakly voice out, your eyes averting to the dirt ground they were standing on. You couldn't look at her, you couldn't let her see how hurt you were. I don't want anyone to see me like this. 

“Oh, of course. I hope you feel better” Gisela tells you with a worried smile, she wanted to say more, to have you stay with her, but she just didn't know what to say. She knew you were feeling heartbroken, you needed some space. You don't wait for her to say anything else before you turn around and walk back to the castle, your dress ruffling against your legs as you walk quickly. You averted your eyes from Matthew when you passed him, Matthew was right, sihtric wasn't good for me. 

Every step you took your heart pounded harder in your ears and your heart broke even more. You bring your shaky hand to wipe off a tear that escaped from your watery eyes before anyone could see it. Like Lady Gisela said, she could be wrong about sihtric. 

But it was too late, the doubt had already sunk in. 

You didn't know what to do. You had become so dependent on the thought that sihtric cared for you too, that you were special to him. So, hearing Lady Gisela's words really hurt, in ways you weren't prepared for. Did I really spend these eight months being heartbroken for a guy that didn't even care about me? You think bitterly as you stare down at the bush of flowers. 

You have been in the garden for an hour or so. After you left Gisela you went to your room, and cried in your bed until your cheeks became sore, but you soon felt trapped in your room and with your thoughts. So, you decided to take a visit to the gardens. It was difficult to convince Matthew to let you go on your own, but he reluctantly agreed when he saw your watery eyes. You needed to be alone, in a place you felt comfortable. You had a lot to think about. 

There was a part of you that believed that Lady Gisela simply saw wrong and that he cared about you. But the other part of you knew that he was a man, and you have heard many stories about man and how unfaithful they are. Sihtric wasn't like that, he was different right? He had to be. You were so caught up in your depressing thoughts that you didn't hear the upcoming footsteps, you only noticed that someone joined you, when they sat by your side on the stone bench. 

You wipe your cheeks, making sure there was no evidence of you crying before you looked up at the person sitting next to you. You sniffle and tilt your head to see the side profile of Arthur. He was looking down at the bush of flowers, his hands folded in his lap, and he had an emotionless look on his face. But when he feels your stare, he turns his head to look at you, giving you a small smile. He had noticed your red eyes, but he didn't say anything about it. 

“I’ve been looking for you, Lady Aethelflaed said I would find you here. It's a nice spot” Arthur mused as he looked around the garden, he had seen this place many times, simply just walking past or walking through. He's never really spent any time there, he can see why you like it. He had seen you on the same bench the two of you were sitting on, many times before. He just never had the courage to talk to you, you always looked so content. He didn't want to ruin that. 

“It is very peaceful” You voiced out quietly, taking a deep breath, smelling the many scents of the flowers that surrounded the two of you. It truly was peaceful. You look towards the willow tree that gave the bench you were sitting on, shade. It was a hot evening, but the shade made the weather feel perfect. Arthur watched your side profile, watching as you close your eyes for a second to take another deep breath. You looked so peaceful, so beautiful. 

“I wanted to apologize” Arthur started as he broke the silence. You look away from the willow tree and to him, a confused look on your face. When you see the sincerity in his blue eyes you can't help but feel guilty. You cut him off quickly, before he can say anything else. “You have nothing to apologize for Arthur” 

“I should be the one apologizing, i have done nothing but treat you terribly when all you have done was treat me nicely” You continued, you tone soft and guilty. You couldn't look into his eyes anymore, you felt guilty for the way you treated him. You look down at your lap where your fidgeting hands rested. You clear your throat before you look back up, tilting your head and locking eyes with blue eyes. “I really am sorry Arthur.” 

“I forgive you y/n, and I understand why you did” He nodded, giving you a reassuring smile. You furrowed your eyebrows in confusion. How could he be so understanding? So sweet? I wouldn't be if i were him you thought. 

“A person with no sight could see that you aren't happy with this betrothal” Arthur began after he let out a tired sigh. You look down at your lap again, feeling bad. He was right. Arthur continues, his tone kind and promising. 

“I know I am not the person you want to marry, but I promise I will try to be someone you would actually like to be around.” 

“I don't hate you Arthur” You spoke softly, as you shook your head no. His words had comforted you in a way you didn't expect. But your words were true, you didn't hate him. He was kind, understanding, and handsome. You couldn't hate him, you tried to…but you just couldn't. Things would be easier if I did. 

“You just hate the thought of being with me” he says straightforwardly. Arthur watches as your lips part and your eyes soften, he knew he was right. And it hurts. He really wanted you to like him, because he liked you. He barely knew you, but the things he had heard about you, he liked. There was just something about you, your aura. 

“Arthur I-” 

“It's okay y/n, I understand. I really do” he tells you with a nod and fake smile, his tone a lot sadder than he wanted it to. He looked away from you and back to the bush of flowers, beautiful purple violets. He loved violets, he had a feeling you liked them to. 

“Can, can we start over?” You broke the silence with your hopeful tone. You knew that there wasn't a way to stop you and his betrothal, so there was no reason to keep up this stone-cold act anymore. The hope you had was gone, just like sihtric. It's time for me to move on. His eyes widen at your words, and his look of shock turns to a content smile. “I'd like that.” 

“Friends?” Arthur asks you with his charming smile, holding his hand out for you to shake, his eyes not leaving yours. A laugh escapes your lips, and you offer him a smile of your own, shaking his hand. I'd like that.

“Friends” 

note: sadly no sihtric in this part :( but that’s okay, he will be back in the next part! I’m sorry for all the angst but like it was needed 😫

This is definitely not my best writing, but I just wanted to get this out as fast as I could. like I said at the top note, I was really struggling with this part. I rewrote it like 2 times.

The next chapter will be the three year time skip, and just a warning! Reader will be different, it’s been three years a lot will have changed for her, and her relationship with sihtric will also be different. I hope you guys are excited cause I’m lowkey worried about writing the next part (I have no idea what’s going to happen, genuinely)

I really hope you guys enjoyed this part! Please let me know in the comments how you feel! And feel free to send in some asks about the series, I would love to answer them!

Comments, likes and reblogs are very much appreciated!

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Copyright ©️ 2023, all rights reserved. You can’t copy, translate, reproduce, repost my fic, use my plot or layout.

[ivarthebadbitch]

aethelflaed as the lady of mercia, for @hardestysally

[whencyclopedia]

Aethelred, Lord of the Mercians

Aethelred ruled as Lord of the Mercians from c. 881 to 911 and was a key military leader in the fight against Viking conquest and settlement in England. To defend Mercia, he allied himself to the powerful Kingdom of Wessex under the leadership of Alfred the Great (r. 871-899) and later married Alfred's daughter, Aethelflaed, to strengthen their alliance.

Today, Aethelred is primarily remembered as King Alfred's dutiful son-in-law or as the husband of the celebrated Aethelflaed, Lady of the Mercians. However, he was an important historical figure in his own right, who led Mercia during a time of intense conflict and transformation, which lay the foundations for the unification of England that would be completed in 927 by Aethelred's foster son, King Aethelstan (r. 924-939).

Historical Sources & Modern Depiction

Aethelred's life is documented in several contemporary sources. The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, a chronicle recorded at Alfred's court in the 890s, and Bishop Asser's Life of King Alfred, a contemporary biography of Alfred, provide key but limited details on Aethelred's life, including his relationship with Alfred and his military campaigns. Additionally, several of Aethelred's land charters still exist, providing valuable records of his land and property transactions and his interactions with the Mercian clergy and nobility. We are also aided by the Fragmentary Annals of Ireland, a series of later medieval Irish chronicles. These annals provide insight into the later years of Aethelred's life, which were marked by illness and Mercia's defence against Norse-Irish Viking raids in Britain.

Interest in Aethelred has grown in recent years, primarily due to Toby Regbo's portrayal of him in the TV show The Last Kingdom (2015-2022), in which he is depicted as an incompetent and cowardly ruler who resents his wife. However, Bernard Cornwall – the author of The Saxon Stories, on which the show is based – admitted his portrayal of the Mercian leader was unfair to the real historical Aethelred. From the limited source material on Aethelred and his character, we see a courageous soldier and capable ruler who enjoyed a healthy relationship with Aethelflaed and was remembered by medieval chroniclers as a "man of distinguished excellence" and a "valorous earl" (Forester, 89 & Giles, 239).

Continue reading...

[alfredofwessex69]

Aethelflaed hurries to the courtyard to welcome her father to her estate. She puts on a smile as she approaches him, her hands rising to take his as Alfred presses a kiss to her cheek.

"Father, Lord King, to what do I owe such a happy surprise as this? Why did you not send word of your plan to come to Saltwic? Since this is a surprise, I'm afraid it will take a bit to prepare your rooms. But it is no hardship," Aethelflaed smiles again, "as I'm sure you have much news to share."

@theladyofmercia

“It is no worry, my dear. You mustn’t fuss over me,” Alfred gives her a small smile as he fondles her hands in his for a moment. “You look very well. I regret to have caught you in such surprise,” he arches a brow as he looks her over. “Though, I will be no burden. I simply come to visit my daughter and to speak with the Lord Uhtred. It will not be a tiresome visit.”

Alfred nods to Steapa, urging him to follow him in an unspoken gesture. “Tell me, Lady of Mercia,” he speaks softly and lovingly. “Is this estate to your liking?”

@theladyofmercia

[frary-us]

I feel like I missed a gifset. The preceding moments with "the daughter looks like a Dane" laughing from Aldhelm & Aethelflaed, and then annoyed Aethelred "having to vomit."😞😕 One of my all-time favorite TLK scenes.😂

Aethelflaed, Aldhelm | The Last Kingdom 3.07

[all-that-is-gold-is-now-gone]

“ i’m so proud of you. i know it’s hard to get past these rough days, but... i still want you to know that i’m proud of you. “ (alfred to aethelflaed)

Aethelflaed looked over at her father, was he truly proud of her? She had worked so hard to be worthy of the royal blood that ran through her blood, to be worthy of the legacy her father would leave behind, even if it would not be directly to her.

"You are?" She asked, looking up at her father, still with tear-stained eyes taking in a soft breath, "truly?"