#finan imagine

[ms-oswald]

homesick | chapter two

author's note: aaaand chapter two is here! another long one (sorry, not sorry lol). 18+ MDNI. Sending all my love to @persephones-journey, thank yoou for being my second pair of eyes! ❤️ banner credit to @arcielee 💜 Lots of love & stay safe 💕

     “Kára?”

The roughness of battle suddenly vanished, the sight of an old friend gracing relief into his muscles. 

“If it isn’t my favorite Irishman.” A grin stretched into her cheeks, light steps pushing her to him as he got up from his seat and met her halfway, the alehouse rowdy and curious as eyes peered over to them. 

“Who is the woman?” The youngest of Uhtred’s men, a gentle monk, leaned closer to his friends as he whispered while his view remained on the couple.  

“She is one of Ragnar’s men.” Uhtred had taken the lead on answering, his own blue hues set on them. “A seafarer.” A slight smirk had crossed the side of his lips as well, a sense of contentment at seeing his closest friend ease a little; Finan had reached out for her, gingerly holding her hand with their fingertips timidly tied together as they laid above the ground. 

She noticed a tired look in his eyes; she placed her other hand to his cheek, stroking his skin tenderly before pulling him away and out of the alehouse.  

A few feet away, settling in a calmer air, he looked back at her. Though his heart swelled to her presence, he remained curious – and partly hopeful. “What are you doing here?” 

“Are you not happy to see me?” She teased, bumping his shoulder and catching a glimpse of his chuckle. She proceeded, her lighter tone softening. “I heard about what happened with the brothers... I came to see if you had survived.” 

He sighed, a grim look flashing across his irises; even in the dim light around them, she could see something was not right. There was anger, fear, grief – exhaustion. He wore them heavy on his shoulders and her heart broke. 

“How long are ya here for?” He had taken the smallest of steps, head down as he held her hand again, suddenly needy for her touch. It had been some years since they last saw each other – since she had left after helping Ragnar defeat Kjartan. He had mourned her departure once, and knew it were to happen again as she was a fleeting form, a nomadic essence that was never meant to be rooted into the ground, her breath wedded to the sea.  

And so, his inquiry would need to become an iterant quest for their time to come.  

She placed her hand to his cheek. “I can stay for a couple of nights, leave the day after tomorrow...” She softly replied, worry etched onto the creases above her brows.  

He leaned into her touch, kissing the heel of her palm as he exhaled a faint smile of gratitude.  

She then pulled him out of his thoughts, her fingers playfully rubbing at his shaven scalp while taunting him with an exaggerated disapproving look. “What am I supposed to grab onto now?” 

A low laughter rippled from beneath his chest, an easy beam glowing under moonlight.  

He leaned towards her, whispering teasingly into her ear. “I don’t remember ya having any issues last time. I still have your nail marks on my back, Love.” 

She bit her inner cheek, attempting to hide her blush, and slapped him on his chest playfully. “I guess you will have to refresh my memory.” 

A chuckle rumbled the back of his throat as he kissed her cheek, reaching the corner of her lips.  

He broke the embrace, locking eyes with her while she tiptoed around the arm ring he wore on his right side, her fingertips grazing gently over the piece of jewelry before they slithered down to his wrist and hand.  

“Does Ragnar know you are here?”  

She smirked. “Jealous now?” She bit her bottom lip, her head tilted sideways as faint mirth reached the green specks in her eyes. “As far as I know, he doesn’t.” She took a closer step, the tip of her boots touching his own, and lifted herself on her toes, hovering over his breath. “Like I said, I was just passing through to see you.” She eyed him intently, adding jest into her words. “It would have been devastating losing out on such a good friend.” She tapped his chest to her last words, and lingered. 

He grabbed the hand that rested on him as he spoke. “A friend or a hump?”  

She extended her play, pretending to think seriously over her answer as she pursed her lips. It earned her another of his infamous smirk, the creases to his cheeks welcomed.  

She sobered up, nodding curtly. “Both.” 

Another vibration across his lungs, a gentle chortle escaped him as he shook his head. “It’s really good to see you.”  

“And darling, it is good to be seen!” She took his hand and tugged him her way. “Now lead me to your home. I am exhausted and need a bed!” 

“Alright, alright.” The crinkle to his cheeks remained with his grin unwavering to her presence. He pulled her the opposite way, the couple scurrying away from the lights and from the dwindling drunken people as he led her to his place. 

It was a quaint home, comfortable enough to house one person.  

She walked around, glancing to every corner of the open space, taking in the sight while he stayed behind to lock his door. 

He then turned and silently watched her, trying to catch her in the dim light peering through his windows.  

A mind of its own, his body moved forward, his feet marching towards her until he stood behind her. She sensed him and smiled as his arms slid around her stomach, pulling her firmly against his chest.  

She closed her eyes and fell into his embrace, the tip of his nose stroking her temple into her hair as he inhaled; the faint scent of salty waters sent shivers down his spine, the bittersweet aroma curling into the pit of his stomach as he tightened his hold around her. He trailed down behind her ear and her neck, taking in her presence by way of his other senses, un-relying on his sight as his shut hues stayed in the dark.  

Her breathing steadily grew heavier to the feel of his caress traipsing down her stomach. He quietly reached the laces of her trousers, swiftly undoing them before his fingers slipped underneath the fabric. 

She sighed, her head falling backward against his shoulder. She then tilted to the right, hugging his arm with her teeth grazing the muscles; her mouth was slightly parted in pleasure, the dexterous fingers toying with her wantonly. 

“I missed ya...” He breathed, air fanning over her blushing cheek. “I missed having ya around.” 

She tried to regain her composure, her hazels catching the shy glimmer of the moonlight onto the floor. 

She huffed a smile, a lopsided curve etched into a smirk. “As a friend, or a hump?” She called back, playing.  

He took a moment, following into her footstep as he teased her; a slight pressure to his grasp, he heard the faintest of whimper before answering, the cheeky grin smug behind her. 

“Both.” 

The skin of his teeth scratched her earlobe, an overlay to his ministrations as he listened to her soft panting, her chest heaving from the growing warmth underneath her breastbone. 

She cursed under her breath, a strained giggle shaking her tongue at his answer before calling out for him. 

“Finan...”  

“Mhmm?” He mumbled, sweetly kissing the column of her neck. 

“We’re in the dark...” 

She attempted once again to gain control of herself, desperately wanting to focus on her thoughts.  

He did not relent, purposely continuing with his diligent work. “I know.” 

A faint titter tickled his ear. “Do you not want to look at me, is that it? Have I grown hideous since last we saw each other?” She patted his cheek, signaling him to stop. He breathed out as she turned in his arms, rolling her eyes in amusement at his inflated disappointing gaze. “We’ll have all night for some fun.”  

She parted from his embrace with her arms stretched behind her back, a coy glimmer sparkling in her hues. “Come on, get a fire started – give me some heat, and when you are done, I’ll be ready and completely bare, waiting for you in your bed.”   

He let a soft groan out and yanked her back into his arms before catching her lips into his own, granting himself a firm kiss – a tale for more, before once again pulling away. 

He turned to his hearth while she moved to his bed and started to undress herself until she reached her shift. She left it on as she took a seat on the bed, waiting for Finan to join her. 

Once he finished tending to his task, he turned to Kára and found her waiting for him. 

“I thought you said ya’d be naked?” He bit his lip into a lopsided smirk, eyeing the way the thin material of her shirt proudly displayed her cleavage down to the way she had crossed her legs, purposely hiding herself away from him. 

He swallowed the sudden saliva coating his inner cheeks, mouthwatering at the sight, body thrumming at the thought of what awaited him. 

She stood up, hands behind her back as she glanced downwards at herself before lifting her head to him, a bold glimmer settling across her features, her silent invitation. “How about instead, I give you the joy of ripping this off of me. Have you work for it.” 

“So thoughtful of ya.” He followed her pace, tagging along as he closed in the distance, teasing with a hand to his chest at pretend gratification. “I really appreciate it.” 

He took one more step as she extended her hand towards him, grasping his shirt. He chased the motion and pulled her in his arms before tipping her way, ghosting his lips over hers until they firmly pressed. 

He then cupped her cheeks, holding her gently as he deepened the caress. The strokes were gentle – sickeningly sweet to a roaming eye, as she sunk into the way the ale was coating his tongue; she had felt it heavy in the warmth of his breath, and how the taste lingered – bittersweet. 

She let him hold on to her as she reached for the layers of clothes that covered him still; they only parted for the second she removed his shirt, the item thrown carelessly onto the ground before her arms rested back around his shoulders, searching for the delectable kiss in candlelight.  

Catering to both their needs for closeness, he swiftly lifted her up, her legs encircling his waist as he moved them closer to his bed. 

He lingered at the edge, simply standing as she held on for dear life, her nails softly digging into his jaw and cheeks.  

Without letting her go, he eventually took his seat and settled her on his lap. He let himself fall within the warmth of her embrace, to the way she wrapped around him, seeking air from his lungs as he searched for peace. An urgent need rummaged into his chest, a shovel digging for anything but death and war – a lost treasure. 

She felt a tightened hold about her waist, fingers clutching at the fabric of her shift; an unsettled feeling stroked beneath her breastbone as she pulled away, silently catching her breath.  

“What’s wrong?” An affectionate touch spread across his cheeks as worry raised into the softened streams of her hazels.  

“Nothing.” He breathed out, locking his gaze onto hers. 

She pulled back and saw the lie trembling within the depth of his hues; they were at a standstill as she observed him. 

He had tried to look away, a sudden shyness creeping up in the pit of his stomach but she stopped him, fingertips to his beard as she tilted forward and gently brushed her nose to his.  

She gifted him a tender kiss and whispered closely, catching the glimmer of the hearth in his brown eyes.  

“Finan... Let me take care of you.” 

He could only stare at her, her words slowly settling within his teared down mind. He couldn’t muster a response, his only source of communication the careful gestures he bestowed upon her form.   

She slowly pushed him to lie down and hovered above him while still holding onto each other’s sight.  

She took a moment, her nails lightly grazing at his beard. She wore a simple smile, a small pull from the corner of her lips as she lowered herself towards him. Another kiss across the pink of his skin, he kept her unmoving as he caught her with his arms around her body, hands slipping down her back. She teased him, faintly rolling her hips and earned a muffled grunt from the back of his throat; she repeated the movement once again, the pressure tightening between her thighs.  

She then hid her face in his neck, keeping up with her pampered touch as she found the ties of his pants.  

Feeling the slip of her hand between their bodies, he helped her undress him by kicking off his boots and pulling down his trousers. She was slowly slithering down, mouth to skin as she trailed pecks down his chest. She discarded his last piece of clothing, finding herself at the edge of his bed.  

He waited for the mattress to dip again, his eyes to the ceiling before he leaned on his elbows and watched her stare back at him. She was biting down her inner lip and took a moment as she reached for her shift, removing it and baring herself in front of him as he was. 

He sat up, drawn forward by his own enthrallment, his breath stuck within the confines of his lungs. 

He stretched his arm, grabbing her fingertips and tugged her his way until she stood between his legs. She looked down at the way his beard scratched her stomach as he pressed soft kisses to her flesh. She bit down her bottom lip, hands holding the back of his head while feeling his own trailing down her back to her cheeks and thighs. 

He inhaled deeply, the subtle scent coating her skin sweetly intoxicating him, lulling him further into distraction. 

She caught his attention as she slowly pulled away from his squeeze. He raised his head to her, his gaze shadowing her movement as she lowered herself to the ground.   

A shaky breath escaped his parted mouth, titillated by the way she presented herself to him; her palms rubbed against his thighs as she kneeled before him, her chin upwards. He glanced down at the swell of her breasts before meeting her eyes, enraptured by the honeyed glow of her irises, the darken room inexistent under her colors.  

His stare was unbendable as he intently watched her with a dry throat. 

A violent groan rasped passed his lips, his head tilted back as he gripped his sheets. He cursed, his lungs tied to the weight in his chest, with her name slipping in a strained echo within the walls of his rooms. 

She anchored herself with her nails carved into his hips, the ploy performed by her tongue seducing gluttonous breath out of his slacked jaw, his whimpered string of profanities – a sweet melody to her ears. 

Enraptured by the way she suctioned her cheeks, keeping him wet and warm, he grabbed her curls, forcing dishevelment amongst her braids as he tensed, his head falling back in pure pleasure. 

He was tied down by her chords, sinful vibrations passing through her swollen lips as her own carnal ache thrummed between her thighs. She became a prayer intertwined into his marrow, her name smothered under tantalizing heat. 

She sought his pleasure continuously, unrelenting as every twist and twirl of her tongue, the sliver of graze from her teeth, earned her grunted blasphemies from his mouth, hisses and hitched exhales into the thick air around them. 

Ignoring the simmering bruises to her knees, she felt him tense, his grip tightening as he looked down, his hues struck by her wanton teasing; he let go, submerged under ecstasy as a hefty exhalation rapidly escaped his lungs. 

He fell back onto the bed, catching his breath while running a hand down his flushed face. 

He felt her slip away and shifted his gaze to her climbing back onto the mattress, finding her seat as she straddled his lap. She kept her eyes on him, cleaning the corners of her mouth with her fingertips. He sat back up, arms snaked around her waist while closely watching the way she licked her lips, a silent swallow gracing her ears.  

He quickly claimed her reddened flesh, latching on lustfully. She felt him twitch underneath her, the taste of himself across her tongue igniting his desire anew. 

He engulfed her breath, holding hostage every drop of her taste for his own, a primal need that burned within his very core and kept her slightly lightheaded while still grounding her to his strokes. 

His hands slithered to her back, pushing her firmly with her breasts in heated friction against his chest; a muffled moan slipped away from her, the contact enticing as it burrowed into the pit of her stomach, forcing a clench between her legs. 

She barely broke away from him as she slid her right arm down his stomach to their joint hips. A light gasp fanned across her swollen lips as he felt her gently stroke him while she leaned on her bruised knees, high enough to graze herself against him. 

Mouth ajar, a strained moan fumbled at the back of her throat, the teasing touch causing shivers to violently scrape her bare skin. The thicker the pressure at her hips, her head instinctively fell back, 

She glanced down to catch him staring at her just as she slowly sunk onto him, the thickening pressure increasing at her hips and causing a twist in her voice as she called for him, cursing his name unabashedly.  

He stilled, taking in the way unadulterated pleasure etched beautifully across her features, flushed and whimpering. His heartbeat deafening him to the sound of his own exhales, his body trembled under such weight, lechery at its finest in this night. 

She settled back onto his lap, her bruised joints finding comfort resting on the sheets.  

Hitched breath tickled his lips, warmth spread across a she took a moment of enjoyment, the feel to be back in his arms this way maddening.  

He searched for her lips, capturing them then as she timidly tilted her hips. She listened to his panting, the stuttered groan grasping at his throat while he pressed her further against him, every piece of her fitting within him.  

They took their time, the thrusts gentle as stolen kisses and rough skin strokes were in precedence; she needed his attention, to bask in thrill amidst the tragedy hanging above him, puppet strings cutting into his flesh.  

She knew he was keeping it together for appearances – from the moment she greeted him this night, she could see a darken shadow suffocating him, drowning in eyes, his posture, his shoulders. The fury, grief and exhaustion were simple friends as they held hands. 

The desire to digress from such gloomy depth and lure him into her arms, lovers delight seeping through careful gestures and sound; it was the soft call of his name, the gentle ‘Look at me’ from her lips to his, to the breathless ‘Touch me' as she guided his hands along her form, the heat in his palms raising her skin from her breasts down her waist, and down her back.  

He continued of his own accord, carving her flesh into his creases, pleasure thriving beneath his fingertips. 

She held his gaze in fervent strength, a lustre of vulnerability crossing over their bare flesh. They latched onto one another, the ombre swirling between her brightened hazel to his darker hue; they were unrelenting, stubborn – a sliver of obsession, a shadow of possession, rooted into their frantic embrace, the tied threads simmering, humming to every thrust, every crescent, every drip sliding down limb to limb. 

She slowly felt overpowered under the weight of his stare, her body trembling – resonating against his touch. Her pace quickened, the friction between their hips ceaseless, delectable. And she was cursing sweet nothings between their lips, the letters of his name sculpted into her chords, a lust-filled melody haunting his ears.  

Overwhelmed, her head dropped backwards, her chest following as she anchored herself to him, her left arm grasping his shoulder while the other fell to his leg. 

She stayed in his view, watching as she submerged under their pooling pleasure, seeking the rushed waves as adrenaline pumped through her veins.  

He tightened his hold on her and swiftly pivoted, landing her on her back as he hovered over her.  

She gasped, taken aback as he took over without interruption, the strokes consuming and hips rutting in greed. 

He pressed his forehead to hers, warm breaths mingling in heavy steps as his hands wandered – a must – until their fingers interlaced. Comfort waved through, her surreal presence settling into his reality the way a breath of fresh air seeks lungs for nestling. 

He hadn’t realized how much he had missed her – the sound of her voice singing into his ears, the softness of her skin rubbing lovingly against his calloused tone, the depth of her gaze always searching for his even under the cover of darkness.  

He caught her lips, stealing kisses every chance he got as he still held her underneath him, hips bruising – yearning.  

He was pursuing her shadow, despair clawing at him knowing she was a temporary presence; his muscles tensed as his mind dragged him back to their separated time. The sudden restlessness that was roaming in the pit of his stomach crept back ever so slowly, every moan rolling down her tongue a knock into reality. 

She had become an unexpected presence in his life, an unintentional friend – an emblem to the freedom he had been given. She was entwined into the cracks of him, pulling him together into a state of perpetual hope, solace, forthcoming by her reappearances. 

He savored the thrusts, the appetite euphoric with her clinging to him as if afraid to let go – the thought of parting from him, of losing his warmth as he filled her lasciviously left her delirious over the nights she had ached for him, over the years and oceans that separated them. 

Her muffled moan snaked across his tongue, inciting a groan as he deepened their kiss, the brushes languid as his hand rested on her throat, thumb to chin as to tilt to the angle he wanted. He then trailed down her neck, swollen lips tender against her skin while the trim of his beard scratched her carelessly.  

Her eyes rolled to the back of her head while she tightened her legs around his hips, falling into an utter state of bliss. He felt her body quiver as her nails dug into his waist – shivers ran down his spine, his pace faltering until he slowed down and lingered, taking his time, relishing in the sweet ecstasy coating them longingly.  

He lied on top of her, hiding in her neck while her breath lingered by his ear, her thighs lazily resting by his hips, caving under pressure, and her fingers grazing his back soothingly. 

She inclined her head his way, closing her eyes for the moment as to enjoy the simplicity of their position – the way the weight of his body fit with ease over her own. She felt the press of his lips atop the glistened layer of her skin, a tender gesture he trailed along her shoulder. 

Reaching the end, he pulled away and slowly slid to her left while she pulled the disheveled sheets and fur around them, the fire still bright as it heated his room. She then shifted in her seat as she stretched her legs, wanting to nestle closely to him. She laid on her back, his arm around her with her left elbow lazily bent, her fingertips feathers above him. 

Finan could feel the heaviness on his shoulders partially drifting away, a faint sense of ease covering him; it was the pant heaving from her chest that soothed him, her presence an everlasting solace. He mindlessly played with her hair, fingers lumpish within the entangled locks while caressing her head. 

He was staring at his ceiling, lost in thought while his exhales steadied, the rush of adrenaline dissipating into the beads of sweat across his bare flesh. 

He felt her slip her fingers through his, silently searching for his hand to hold. He let her, his right arm following the movement as she brought his knuckles to her lips. He smiled, squeezing his hold on her and tilted slightly, his nose stroking her hair before kissing her sweetly. 

She moved again, gently enough to press herself further to his waist. He set a soft breath out, a burgeoning need to never let her go settling into his core – despite knowing it was futile. 

“Where are ya headed next?” The gruffness in his voice pulled her back to reality, his question a slight tug at her heart. 

She sighed quietly, her gaze unfocused. “Irland... I owe my father a visit.” She started tracing patterns over his chest, pensive. “Have you ever thought of going back? 

The silence was cut short, the minute dropping as he took his time to answer. 

“I haven’t really... I don’t think I’ll ever see it again.” 

She frowned and shifted to lean on her elbow, her eyes finding his. “Why not? It’s your home, is it not?” Genuine curiosity prickling at her brow.  

He was caressing her arm, his right still placed around her as he moved his own left to rest behind his head. “Not anymore... Coccham is my home now.” 

She took on the dramatics, an exaggerated groan shaking her tongue. “Ugh, but Irland is so much better!” She coaxed a smile out of him, her playful whining earning a soft laughter. He patted her arm and turned away, his hues facing the top of his home once again, the grin fading. 

“There are days where I wonder about it, but... not enough to want to go back.” She listened, watching the somber expression heavy on his features. He tilted his eyes back to her once again. “There is nothing left there for me anymore. I was a warrior until I wasn’t.” 

She lingered across the faint anguish coloring the depth of his browns; she could sense he wanted to change the subject, the dismissive tone laced in his lilt giving her a nudge. 

A weak bite into her inner lip, he moved to stroke her cheek, sweeping strands away to rest behind her ear. She slid closer to him, hovering above and leaned down to share the tender kiss – a moment of peace passing through them, her questioning of his motherland turning to dust.  

“What of ya?” He retraced her lips, his callused thumb enjoying the smoothness of her skin. 

She puckered the muscles, pecking his touch quickly before following with an answer. 

“My family may have settled there after leaving Norway, but Irland is not my home. And Coccham is definitely not it either.”  

He chuckled, his arm falling down as she leaned on her elbow once more. “I have never truly thought of it, really. A home... I just know I never was one for land, and farming and everything in between.” 

Restless, she switched positions again, lying back down as Finan followed, facing her while she took her turn to gaze upwards.  

Her words dug from the underground an inaudible inquiry – an opaque wondering, a glimpse into a scenario that could never be, a drawing settling into his mind for a split of a second. 

“Ya never thought of settling down?” Kára was young, her future ahead of her – the smallest piece of his shadow pondered if she had even thought about such a path. 

“I don’t think it was ever meant for me.” She turned her head to look at him, catching his stare as she responded, a layer of improbability stuck to the back of her throat. “I was born on a ship in the middle of nothing but water... and just maybe that is why I could never settle.” A lopsided grin, ever so timid, rose to her cheek. “Or at least that is what my father says of me – that I am a true seafarer. A true daughter of Njörd.” 

“And what do you say of yourself?” He had moved his arm over her stomach, palm stroking her sweetly, warmth spreading to both bodies. 

She contemplated, taking a moment before meeting him with a mischievous glint in her hazels. 

“That this traveler needs to ride out the sea.” 

He matched her smirk, his lips stretching as he teased. “I can help with that.” 

She played along, expressing disbelief to his proposal. “I don’t think so. Your Irish waters are weak. I need something stronger-” Her tone dropped, seduction rising as it slipped down her tongue, warm breath tickling him. “-robust. Rough.”  

He startled her, earning a squeal as he leaped to hover above her and pinning her arms above her head; a light laughter followed, amused by his sudden change in behavior.  

He lowered closer to her, parting her thighs with his knee as he pressed himself against her breasts, re-awakening temptation into their midst. He trailed one hand down her form, resting it below her hips with his eyes never leaving hers as he took in the way her mouth parted, a hitched breath floating between them. 

She arched her back slightly, a teasing gesture earning a bite from his lips, taunting her. 

“We should prepare ya for a storm then.” 

     He spent the next morning with his head between her thighs, stirred by having woken up with her pressed comfortably against his chest. 

It had followed with a slow roll out of bed, Kára pushing Finan to break his fast while she had remained distant, her own plans in their finishing touches. 

She then walked to the great hall, finding him sitting with Uhtred and Gisela, calmly chatting with their plates and cups slowly emptying. 

She took her place behind her friend and placed her hands on his shoulders as she tilted her head towards Uhtred. 

“I am taking him for the day.” The tone had been set as an order more than it was a request. 

Gisela quietly chuckled, her eyes falling to her husband as he stared back at the newcomer dumbfounded. He then glanced to Finan, the Irishman shrugging his shoulders as he waited for a response.  

Uhtred simply nodded, nudging his head for the young man to go – speechless. 

A satisfied grin on her face, Kára took his hand as he got up, and walked out. As she reached the entrance, she quickly turned back and shouted. 

“Oh, and don’t expect him until sundown!” 

Without letting room for protest, she pivoted and led Finan away, both bodies walking towards the stables. 

“Where are we going?” He was puzzled, curiosity set in his brows as he let her lead the way, his arms tensed from her pull. 

She pivoted her head to him, a teasing smirk cornering her lips. “You’ll see.” 

He found two horses with their saddles on, bags, furs and blankets tied to each of them. He stilled and watched as she continued, quietly greeting them with gentle petting before grasping at their reins and tugging them back his way. 

She handed him his own, a spark of excitement floating across the green of her eyes. “Ready?” An instinctive smile stretched into his cheeks as he nodded. “Ready.” 

Climbing on and riding away, she led the march out of Coccham and into the woods with Finan trailing by her side. 

He had remained quiet for a few minutes, waiting to see if she would reveal the secrecy she was withholding; she noticed the stolen glances from the corner of her eyes and smirked, amused by the way intrigue prickled at the furrow brow atop him. 

“You’re staring.” 

“Ya are kidnapping me.” 

She turned his way, her grin still apparent. “It’s not kidnapping when you will be returning later.” 

He matched her smile and shook his head as he shifted his gaze back to the road ahead of them. “Where are ya bringing me?” 

“You’ll see.” He could hear the mischievous intonation in her words, stretching wider the beam dimpling into his cheeks.  

He glanced back towards her, catching the glimmer of amusement in her eyes. “A woman of mysteries.” 

“That is my charm, Irishman.”  

He chuckled at her response and continued the ride, light jests shared between them. 

They eventually then made their stop, Kára halting her horse after the hour had dropped; Finan followed, both bodies climbing down their horses before they continued on foot while still holding onto the reins. 

She took the lead once again, carefully walking through a dampen cave passage, the sound of water echoing all around them.  

To the other side, the area seemed to have been secluded from the rest of the world. The indistinct sound of insects chirping rallied as they hid within the foliage, the trees framing the scenery as they reflected across the serene creek, its rhythmic voice setting the tranquil atmosphere. The mixture of rocks and boulders were comfortable within and around the body of water, the trunks of weeping willows, birch and elms closed in around them, cutting off outside pollution. 

Finan stood breathless as he took in the lush greenery blinding his gaze. 

Kára let him be as she continued down her path, carefully guiding her horse to the willow a few feet away.  

“If ya wanted me by yourself, you could’ve said so.” 

She tied the harness to a low branch before turning to face him, scoffing dramatically. “And be disturbed by Uhtred?” He had approached her close enough, she grasped at the collar of his armor and tugged him her way playfully, a sham of a threat gracing her features. “I’d rather kidnap you.” 

He fell into step, adding theatrics of his own. “So, this is a kidnapping!” He then inclined her way with the tip of his nose grazing hers. “I knew it.” 

She giggled at his antics and let him go, both turning around and undressing their horses as they removed the weight off their backs and placed them by the tree’s roots. She pulled a small bag of apples and dropped it at their feet, the fruits toppling over while Finan handled the blankets and the rest of the baggage.  

She followed with the saddles, placing hers gently on the ground before moving onto the next one; just as she was untying the second seat, Finan grabbed her hand, pivoting her towards him. He placed a hand to her neck, thumb stroking her jawline, and tenderly kissed her lips.  

Without pulling away, he mumbled a soft ‘thank you’ a timid smile gracing her view.  

He reached for her loosened braid, her locks soft under his touch. 

She watched him, attempting to capture a reaction as her heart squeezed. “Does it still bother you?” She still remembered the discomfort he felt the first time they sat close to each other, the day she had tended to his wounds, the breeze forcing him to breathe in the salt in her curls.  

He noticed the quiet distress in her hazels. “It hasn’t been that long.” The faint uncertainty laced into her voice, the distant tremor of fear rooting her to the grass – a slight tug tore at the pit of his stomach. 

He cupped her cheeks, another shared kiss in a try-out for reassurance.  

It wasn’t enough to convince her. 

Despite their physical closeness, a part of her hung onto the fear of being pushed away. 

“You don’t have to hide from me, Finan. You can tell me.” 

“I know. But I promise ya, I am not bothered by it.” She swallowed the lump in her throat and clenched her jaw, holding onto the tears glazing the corners of her eyes.  

Finan pulled on the tie keeping her hairdo together and watched as the ends detangled. 

“Ya’ve got the sea air, and so every time I breathe it in, it will remind me of you.” He continued un-doing her braid, the strands flowing freely around her shoulder. “You’ve made it into something that doesn’t frighten me anymore.” 

Her breath hitched, taken aback by his confession. She ignored the heat creeping up to her cheeks, her eyes struck by the way he was gazing at her, tender affection coated within his irises.  

She bit her bottom lip, stifling a smile, and took a step backwards, breaking the embrace.  

They kept their sight on each other, her smile widening as she kept her teeth to her pink skin.  

“Rid of your clothes.” She ordered before she followed, kicking off her boots, removing her weapons and discarding her armor, her own wear falling atop the open blankets.  

He peered closely her way, hues retracing the way she discarded her garments, from the way her trousers had swiftly dropped around her ankles to the way she pulled at the hem of her shirt, passing it over her head and throwing it. 

She took a step towards the water, her back facing him with her hands reaching into her curls, finishing detangling her braids. 

Feeling the heavy gaze, she turned to look at him, finding him leaning against the willow, arms crossed over his chest. She rolled her eyes, her grin dimpling into her burning cheeks. “What?” 

“Nothing.” 

She chuckled, shaking her head. “Liar.” 

She turned back, the hairdo gone and ruffled her roots, fingers scratching her scalp and easing their previous strain. She then dove into the water, disappearing from Finan’s sight for a moment, the quiet settling in for a short minute before she resurfaced. 

He was still eyeing her, stare unwavering as they shadowed her every move – a complete state of limerence. 

She swam around to face him. “Join me!” 

“Is that an order?” He pulled away from the trunk and walked towards the edge of the water, untying his sword belt.  

“I’m afraid it is.” He stared at the way the shivers covered her skin down her exposed breasts. Her arms were afloat, shaping the water by the sides of her body with her hair slick back and freshly damp. “Come on, the waters are freezing without you.” 

He made a quick turnaround, removing his clothes and marching to her until he sunk to the water, continuing his way towards her. 

They held their eyes to each other, her body dipping under the surface down her nose. He kept swimming until the creek reached his waist. Closing the distance separating them, she slowly stood up with her hazels stuck to his own gaze. 

Hand to her cheek, she leaned into his touch as he stroked her skin. “Better?” 

She nodded shamelessly, the corner of her lip caught between her teeth. “Much better.” 

Her fingertips pressed delicately across his pink skin and trailed towards his toned chest and stomach, teasing the downwards motion to his hips.  

She retraced the way his skin raised to her touch, watching as his muscles ticked under the tip of her nails, the tickling soothing to his limbs.  

She kept going, arrowing downwards, eyes up to him. 

He leaned his forehead against hers, mouth slightly parted as he thought of what to say – the flirtatious caress along his form was freeing, calming. 

She was tending to his wounds – a silent promise to care for him, as she had done last night. 

And as tempting as it was, he found himself only wanting to hold her, to indulge in the way her body would melt into his, arms holding her tight, and simply savor her presence. 

He carefully took her wrist, stopping her from slipping past his hips under water. 

“I don’t need... that. I just...” The low tone of his voice made her frown. She searched for his gaze, curious. He breathed out his last words, his shoulders depleting. “I just need you.” 

An ache hid beneath the surface of his browns, an unfamiliar yearning – it was the simple need to be embraced without the shadow of carnal delight hanging above them.  

She was his refuge to the storm that had numbed him, a shelter, a fire keeping the cold at bay.  

She was unencumbered by the loss at Beamfleot, though still understood the woes of war. 

“Alright.” The soft reply slipping from her lips, she shared the smallest of kisses on his cheek as she placed her arms on his shoulders, hands falling into the void behind them.  

They shared an intimate breath, lips – feathers between one another, as they stood still, time halting by their side. 

He held her by the waist, pulling her closer until they were flushed together, hiding in the crook of her neck. She closed her eyes, falling into the feel of him warmly pressing against her cold skin. He continued down her shoulder and trailed backwards until he kissed the spot right under her ear, gooseflesh running amuck. 

The tranquility of their moment soon was interrupted – the horses pulling them out of their reverie, agitated. 

Both turning their attention to the right, Finan instinctively pulled her nearer, acting as her shield as tension crept up across his limbs. 

She eyed the area, glancing between the horses and the rustling sound coming from a few feet across them. Kára wasn’t frightened – had it been intruders, they would have shown themselves by now.  

She shifted her eyes back to Finan, the man still seemingly on edge. “Finan. Look at me.” She forced him to pivot her way, hands to his cheeks as she caught his stare. “We’re safe.”  

The distant bushes continued stirring until a fox slipped through the low branches.  

The horses distanced themselves, slowly calming down just as Finan let out a breath of relief, his shoulders dropping. 

Kára giggled, her head resting on his chest before she pulled away, smacking him with the surface of the creek. 

She flickered water his way once again, pulling his attention away from the shore and back to her as she continued swimming away from his grasp. 

He complied, catching up to her and quickly caught her back in his arms as he blocked her own, her back pressed against him.  

The reverie had settled back in, bringing comfort to the two characters as she digressed reality into her back pocket, stretching the slumber for a few more moments with the laughter and antics simmering beneath the surface. 

     They hid under the shade of the weeping willow, sitting atop the blankets and fur she had brought from the village. 

She laid her back against the trunk while he rested between her legs, head to her stomach with her knee bent over his shoulder, her bare feet enjoying the feel of the grass. 

She ran her fingers through his shaved scalp, nails soothingly scratching random patterns as she tilted back, eyes closed, the warm breeze seeping through the bended branches. 

It was midday and the sun hung high above them, warming bodies and lands as it lulled them into a state of bliss and comfort; the horses were resting, and the fox was asleep a few feet away from the couple, having searched for its own shade under the leaves. 

Clothes were discarded, the use of blankets partially covering them; being the only two people in the world, decency had no pertinence. 

 They were quiet, the comfort of each other’s company enough to soothe any lingering worries away; Finan had slowly fallen into a light state of slumber, enjoying being in her arms. 

Their moment of peace was then halted, a grumble disrupting them. 

A light laughter slipped from her tongue soon after, realizing the origin of the noise. 

“Is that the call for hunger or do we have another animal roaming about?” 

She felt his body shake atop hers, his own mirth laced with her own as he placed his hands to his stomach and tilted his head upwards, attempting to catch a glance of her from the corner of his eyes. “I didn’t realize how hungry I was. Did ya bring anything for us to eat? Or is it all for the horses only?” 

A soft giggle graced his ear as she leaned over, her palms sliding down his muscles. “I brought us some bread, nuts and fruits.” She placed her chin on his collarbone. “I couldn’t get away with the meat, so we will need to hunt.” 

He hummed in response while pushing himself to sit upright and then reached for his trousers as she sat on her knees, hugging him once again, her arms wound around his shoulders. “How about I do the heavy lifting and you get started with the fire?” She kissed his cheek then trailed down to his neck as he leaned against her, instinctively smiling and agreeing to her proposal. 

The campfire was bright, its hues in harmony to the sunbeams still bright above them.  

Kára came back with small traps in both her hands, satisfied with her catch as she wore faint smudges of dirt across her face and arms. 

Finan watched as she dangled their feast in front of him, a grin etched across his cheeks, amused by the spark in her steps.  

The meat cooked, the fruits and nuts laid out, the bread fresh and in pieces – their meal were plenty, filling his appetite as the atmosphere dipped into light banter and jest. 

Their little companion had found a seat next to Kára, silently sniffing and waiting to be fed; she obliged, splitting bits and pieces of the last remaining raw rabbit to give to the little one, the furry friend never leaving her side.  

“I think he likes ya.” He stared at his friend’s new pet while nibbling on fruit, teasing laced in his vocals.  

“He’s got good taste.” She turned to Finan, playfully winking while she petted the animal.  

He chuckled and wrapped one arm around her shoulder, pulling her near as to lay a kiss to her temple before turning back to face the small fire.  

She placed her head on his shoulder, the pet slithering its way to rest between her feet, quietly finishing its lunch. 

She sensed Finan sobering up, his silence suddenly suspenseful.  

“Where did you go?” There was sliver of strain in her voice as she rested her chin on his shoulder, coaxing him to turn her way. She lifted her head, her fingers stroking his beard gently as he looked in her eyes, the glimmer of green shining under the sun.  

He leaned against her, bumping the tip of his nose with hers before stealing a kiss, the humble gesture preparing his response. 

“Nowhere near as interesting as your travels.” 

She huffed a chuckle, noticing the subtle way he pushed for a new line of inquiry. 

And she followed with no hesitation. 

“Where are ya headed after Irland?” 

They held each other’s eyes, a tenderness to the gaze as she caressed his cheek, the back of her knuckles soft against his beard.  

“We’ll sail East… maybe visit the Greeks again, see what new treasures they’ve discovered.” 

A small smile dimpled the left side of his cheek, tone low as he spoke, the spark in her honeyed stream conjuring curiosity. “Tell me more.” 

She shared a quiet laugh, grasping the bottom lip between her teeth. “Where do you want me to start?” 

She met his wishes, leading their talks as she reminisced of her past voyages, the trials and tribulations, the people she’s met to the lands she visited, down to her small crew – a group of seafarers just like herself, who craved the taste of adventure and thrived amongst the seas. 

He listened intently, observing the way her lips curved in excitement, her cheeks dimpling into a brightened smile, to the way the glint in her hazels lured him in, enthralled by her exuberance. She spoke with a light step in her voice, a silent promise she made to herself, to share her discoveries with him, to gift him the pleasures of such a life by her side, to present the wonders right at his feet. 

Her words hung to his ears, thrumming within his core and aching – ambivalence settled beneath his breastbone, a bittersweet taste coating his marrow into a state of admiration; his heart slipping down his sleeve, every tug shadowed her spoken syllables, its pulsation reverence and cowardice. 

An invisible thread pulled him further towards her, enraptured by her presence – an aura exquisite under the timid sun beams. 

“You should see the world…”  

They had moved to lie on the ground, side by side as she had shifted her gaze, looking up while Finan glanced between the open air above him, to his left with his hues taking her in, the glow of the afternoon seeping through the tree leaves. 

She turned her head to him as she spoke, catching his eyes. “This doesn't have to be your life, you know. There are beautiful lands out there that are worth more than this entire country…” She bit her inner lip, teeth digging into the soft tissue in hope. “You should join me, come see it with me.” Her tone softened, serenating as she leaned closer to him. “Let me take you to see the world, Finan.” She turned, pushing her weight to hover above him, her elbow taking the pressure and facing him as she caught the hint of a smile appearing across his lips. “Leave Wessex behind, and come with me. No more battle, no more war, just food and drinks and women until you are blue in the face.” 

He let a chuckle rumble down his tongue, a pensive gaze stitched over his brow as he stared back to foliage above him. 

The moment seemed to have stopped – even though it had been short, it felt to have dragged itself through the mud, a disappointment that had been both forthcoming and yet still heartbreaking. 

She sighed, not withholding her displeasure. “Uhtred it is then…” She sat up, arms wrapped around her bent knees. 

Finan quickly followed her, his shoulder to her blade. “Kára-” 

“It’s alright. I figured as much…” She tilted her head towards him, chin grazing her shift. Her eyes were cast downwards, giving herself a quiet exhale before meeting him, the faint saddened gaze imbued into her greens. “At least you are giving me a reason to come back.” She wore her lopsided smile, crafting an exit to their path. 

“I’m touched.” He kissed her, lips pressed to shoulder, a smirk hiding behind the gesture. 

She rolled her eyes, unable to stop her own grin. 

She then inclined his way, kissing him softly, and lingered before resting her forehead to his. 

He noticed the change in her demeanor, sensing her frown as if in thought. 

“What’s wrong?” 

She pulled away, meeting his gaze once more as she caressed his cheek. “When I didn’t find the brothers in Frankia… I knew something was wrong.” 

He leaned into her touch, in awe. “Ya came back for that?” 

She nodded, her hand patting him playfully. “I needed to make sure ya Irish arse was still breathing.” 

She mimicked his lilt, brewing a chortle from his lungs; she hid away her worry, the mere drop of imagining such loss weighing on her shoulders. 

They had gone the rest of the day with light jest and quips, bringing back the needed distraction into their midst; she pulled him back into the water, having quickly discarded of her shirt before pulling down his trousers and dragging him away from their burned-out campfire. 

The fox had gone and the horses rested still, nibbling at whatever fruit and greens laid at their hooves. 

Only the light laughter – the teasing plays and childish bantering had coated the breeze within this small place, the drops of water from the stream fall, to the music of insects adding layers to their afternoon. 

     He woke up in a frantic state, startled as sweat hugged his skin. 

He was catching his breath, attempting to recuperate as he took a moment to absorb his surrounding; the darkness of the night silently greeted him, the hearth’s embers becoming but decor in this time.  

Sitting up, he rubbed his face and ran his hand across his shortened hair, anxiety crippling under his chest as it pierced through his lungs, palpitations heavy. 

He didn’t feel the bed dipping behind him – it was the soft call of his name that pulled him away from his anguish. 

“Finan?” 

She slipped her arms around his shoulders as she sat up, and felt the slight sweat slipping off his back along the tension in his muscles. “Nightmare?”  

“Mhmm.”  

She pressed her nose against his cheek and wound her arms closer. “You are safe, Finan.” She whispered soothingly as she turned his head her way, catching his tired gaze. “You are well, and you are safe.” 

He leaned back against her, closing his eyes and listening to her words, his breath steadying.  

She helped him shift his focus to her touch, to the warmth spreading from her body with her hand placed on his chest, guiding his lungs as she controlled his exhales. 

He tilted his head further towards her, stealing a soft kiss before breaking away, resting over her brow.  

She stopped speaking and breathed with him, caressing his chest gingerly – lovingly. 

The minute had passed, her own worries draping over her. 

“Finan...” He met her eyes, noting the slight frown she carried. “What happened with the brothers? Why the strain?” 

He hesitated, looking away and in front of him.  

She pulled him back in, finding a seat next to him while taking her hand into his, resting them on her lap, the other stroking his beard. 

The longer he held her gaze, the comfort of her touch – he found a slither of courage reaching the surface; it was slow, but the words slipped out of his tongue, shaking the ground as he counted the events of the battle of Beamfleot, shivers scurrying across his skin. 

To the death of Clapa, Kára teared up, having grown fond of the gentle giant. 

Her heart broke, Finan’s tale and state wrenching anguish into her bones. 

His confession brought her closer, the bewilderment sitting atop him – puzzled by why this battle was tearing him apart. 

“Some are harder than others. Especially when you were close to death...”  

There was a light tremble to her last word. He turned to her, detecting the glimmer in her eyes, the tear drowning her hues. “You almost died. You lost a dear friend- the night in itself... It was a disaster.”  

She took a deep breath, pivoting away from his gaze. She instead moved, resting her head on his shoulder and squeezed his hand in hers, a self-reassurance of his presence by her side. 

She swallowed the lump in her throat, both of them sitting in silence for the moment that passed. 

“There is nothing but death and war...” 

The sober tone in his voice sent chills down her spine. She felt the break in his heart and carried it as she turned back to him. 

“Penance for being a warrior, I’m afraid.” 

She leaned in, stroked his cheek once more before gently pecking his lips. She then pulled away and silently invited him back to bed, the sheets covering them comfortably. 

He buried his face against her chest, letting her chin rest on his head as her leg wrapped around him, her arms encircling his shoulders – a shield. She raked her fingers against the back of his scalp, her nails soothingly scratching while he breathed in deeply, pushing himself flush against her. 

He found refuge across her collarbone and down her breasts, his lips seeking her bare flesh. He tugged her closer, every empty inch vanishing as limbs molded, a sculpture forming under nightlight. 

She sighed, the weight of his body demulcent as he moved her to lie on her back, sensing an urgent longing in his strokes, his fingers bruising her. 

She cupped his cheeks, forcing him to look at her, eyes meeting in the dark. She shared a small smile – a silent promise of reassurance, before gifting him a gentle kiss. He slowed down, resting his forehead on hers as a shaky breath escaped him, fanning timidly over her parted mouth. She swallowed, capturing his lips with her own and taking the lead in the lingering gesture while he settled between her legs. 

She wanted to give him the distraction he was craving, to create disassociation, to care for the present moment only – to fuck and forget for the few remaining hours they had left. 

To use her and relent all worries – to escape and drown under carnal desires, to lean on a primal need; to cope and pursue the physical pleasure instead. 

He did not let her go, tongue stroking hers while she felt his palms down her waist, raising her skin, until they rested on her thighs and parted them further. He then pulled away, trailing wet kisses down her stomach until he reached her hips. 

She arched her back, her fingers gripping at her pillow above her head as a strained moan vibrated passed her slacked jaw. 

She closed her eyes, ripping at the fabric of the sheets as he consumed her – a glutton. 

He held her down, toying with her pearl while his ears listened to the sighs he coaxed, her chords becoming an exhilarating rush quivering down to his core. He thrived; the distant call of his name, the way she was begging for more, pleading for release. 

She cursed, an annoyed groan slipping out of her, unable to grab onto his hair. Sensing what she was trying to do, her pleasure building in tandem with her frustration, he could only chuckle, the sound shaking beneath her hips. Hearing him, her huff turned into laughter – a small giggle running down her tongue as she made him pull away.  

He caught her eyes and noticed how she quickly glanced at his beard, the taste of her fresh on his tongue. 

She rolled her eyes, bumping her knee playfully against him. “Stop it- Just- Fuck, just come here.”  

The smirk remained across his lips, complying to her demand. He crawled back towards her as she wrapped her arm around him, tugging him near until his breath ghosted over her. She wiped his beard lightly with her fingertips, licking her own lips before she kissed him, taking a lick of herself along her tongue. He groaned, trembling under his chest as she teased him, her calf firm onto his backside – luring him to nestle in the cradle of her hips, begging to be filled, to clench around him as he rutted into her; to have him bury himself inside her, ecstasy aflame, mindless. 

He held onto her – his anchor, reclaiming her body as he gently rolled his hips, thrusting into her with careful movement. 

He hid his face in her neck and deeply inhaled. The infusion of her scent – the hint of rosemary and thyme, the whiff of earthy aroma clashing with the sea salt overflowed his senses. 

His grip of escape, the need for solace grew. He turned desperate the longer he remained between her thighs, pushing passed the anguish that lingered on his shoulders and making his sole purpose on this night to bring his lover to the brim of unadulterated bliss – to have her come undone once again under his touch. 

The room filled with heavy breaths, dirty nothings and the continuous friction of skin to skin – limbs glistening under every dimpled mark of teeth and lips, and fingers, in a drunken haze as haste and frantic, and greed engulfed them. 

Deception waited outside their door, counting down until it was time to part. 

     They stood by the entrance gates of the village, her horse by her side while her small group of men were exiting, ready to embark on their next journey after their short intermission. 

He was holding her hand and gently tugged her in his arms as he spoke. 

“Be safe. I beg ya.”  

The soft pleading laced into his words had faintly pushed at her chest. She breathed in deeply, closing her eyes, and took a moment before pulling away. 

She stretched her lips into a smirk. “Well, if you are begging...” He shook his head, amused by her cheeky reply. 

She then leaned towards him once again, placing a tender kiss to his cheek as she whispered her promise into his ear – a swift shift to a tender and honest approach. 

“Thank you for staying.” 

“That is what friends are for.” The way her eyes settled across his own, an attempt to reassure him of her presence, the depth she would go to for him – a silent callout for the care she held for him. 

He gave her a nod as a soft huff of a chuckle escaped him, his gaze shifting downwards. He ignored the slight twinge in his heart – her chosen words, a tremble to his core. 

A faint ache buried under her chest as she watched him, her brows furrowed into concern. 

“Are you going to be alright?” 

He could hear it in her voice, the slight anxious inquiry; he dismissed it and gave her a soft smile as his lips stretched into the one side of his cheek. “Aye.” 

One step forward and he pressed his forehead to hers.  

He took a moment, eyes closed and breathed her in, hands to her cheeks as he carefully stroked her skin, the need to touch her, constant. She met him, her palms wrapped around his wrists as he placed his lips to her hairline.  

She then kissed him, tilting her head slightly upwards until she reached him, the tender caress holding them close.  

“Don’t miss me too much, Irishman.” She spoke between their breaths, a hint of mischief slipping across her tongue. 

She noticed a slight spark across the brown of his eyes as a light chuckle tickled her ears; it had looked as if the storm had passed, its heaviness pushed into a distant horizon. 

“I won’t if you don’t.” 

She winked at him, giggling. “I’ll try then.”  

She gave him one last kiss before she climbed onto her horse.  

They bid each other another goodbye as he walked her to the other side of the gates. 

Once they parted, the smile curved across his lips fell slowly until it disappeared, his heart faltering in its step as it tumbled over a lost footing. 

--------

xoxo

taglist: @gemini-mama @iamfandomnerd @ladyinred2248 @gco95 @errruvande

[spider-stark]

WHERE LOVE LIES

Finan the Agile x Reader

Summary - Abandoned by your lover, you turn to closest friend for comfort.

Warnings - fem!reader, platonic, abandonment issues, self-destructive behavior, mentions of blood/injury/slavery, will probably deviate from canon at times

Word Count - 1.4k

!MINORS DNI!

// masterlist // send me your thoughts // comments & reblogs appreciated! //

A metallic tang clings to your tongue, having chewed your nails to the point of ruin. How long has it been? Since you first began to drown in the insufferable sound of your own footsteps, pacing along the floor of what was meant to be your shared guest room at Lady Aethelflaed’s estate. 

The minute’s feel like hours—or perhaps the opposite is true. Time seems to melt and blur, reality distorted by the most awful, unavoidable truth. 

Sihtric is gone. 

Something crumples in your chest. You stumble over nothing, barely reaching out in time to catch yourself. Bloodstained fingers curl around carved wood, gripping the footboard of a bed that’s much too big for only one person. You stare at it—at the absurd number of plush feather pillows, all neatly stacked atop thick furs.

Aethelflaed had done this on purpose. Given you and Sihtric the guest room with the biggest, nicest bed. The kindness of a friend, now turned to salt in an open wound. 

Sihtric caused this. This yawning chasm inside of you, an emptiness that threatens to swallow you whole. He caused this. 

Tears sting the back of your throat. Blur your vision.  

The walls start to cave in. Begin crumbling around you. 

You whirl towards the door, unwilling to be trapped in this room for even a second longer. 

Antique sconces line the hallway, their dim flames fighting to stave off the thick shadows skulking in the corners. This late at night, an eerie stillness seems to cling to the air. You drift through it like a wraith—hopeless and stumbling. 

When you reach the door at the end of the hall, you don’t knock. Pushing it open, you step inside without a thought. 

A lone candle burns atop a desk on the far wall, the only light illuminating the cramped, windowless room. Weapons and armor are strewn about as if they’d been stripped off and carelessly discarded, exhaustion taking precedence over neatness. 

You find Finan straight ahead, sprawled out on the bed with an arm tossed over his face. 

Relief almost sends you crumbling to your knees. 

At least he was still here. At least he hadn’t abandoned you. 

You take another step, the floorboards creaking beneath your weight. Finan shifts, arm lifting just enough to reveal tired, squinty eyes. 

One look at you and he’s shoved himself upright, concern etched into every line of his face. 

Your voice is shaky, the words clawing up your throat. “Sihtric’s gone. He.. he left.” 

Finan’s mouth opens, then closes again. He shakes his head, as though contemplating and then discarding several replies, unable to find the one that might actually comfort you. 

Eventually, he settles on the truth. 

“I know,” he admits, running a hand through his beard. “I noticed a few hours ago. I went to check on the hostages after Uhtred set out and…” A deep, frustrated sigh. “The cell was empty. I put two and two together quick enough—figured the little runt must’ve made a deal with ‘em so they’d take him back to the Danes.” An apology flashes in his eyes. “I’d hoped you were already asleep. That you wouldn’t have to deal with this until tomorrow.” 

Silence pools around you, the melancholy blues of Sihtric’s absence boiling into violent hues of betrayal. 

Suddenly, you have the insatiable urge to pinch yourself. As if this is all some sort of cruel mind trick. A nightmare you might still wake up from. You fumble with your hands, fingers picking at the already torn flesh around your nails. You feel pain—and yet nothing changes. 

Sihtric’s still gone. He still betrayed you. 

Betrayed all of you. 

Your head shakes. Warmth begins to spill down your cheeks. “He’s a coward,” you grind out, teeth clenched. “A goddamn coward!” 

A heartbeat and Finan’s up on his feet, closing the distance between you in only a few hasty steps. 

Calloused palms wrap around your wrists, stilling your restless, bloodstained fingers. He pulls you toward him, your knees buckling as you collapse into his chest. Strong arms keep you upright, slipping around your shoulders as another sob tears from your throat. 

Finan holds you like this for a while, rubbing circles against your back and mumbling soothing words against your hair—I know; It’s okay; I’ve got you. 

It’s not until your tears finally slow to a stop, his tunic all but drenched with them, that he tries to say anything of merit. 

“He’s not thinkin’ straight.” You feel the words rumble through his chest, but you’re not certain you heard him right. “It’s all this mess with the curse,” Finan mumbles. “It’s gotten in his head.” 

You push back, not leaving his grip entirely, but enough to look up at him. “Are you seriously defending him?” 

His gaze flickers over your face. A twinge of pity tightens his expression, taking in your flushed skin, streaked with tears. “No,” he answers simply. “But I am statin’ a fact. He would’ve never done this if not for that damned devil-witch.” 

A fair point, perhaps. 

The witch Skade had sunk her talons into Sihtric the moment she spewed that curse from her nasty mouth. She poisoned his mind with paranoia, feasted on his fear like a glutton. 

Skade’s played a hand in everything Sihtric has done—undermining Uhtred’s authority, threatening to fight against his friends, betraying all of you by going back to those filthy goddamn Danes. 

“Maybe you’re right,” you bitterly relent. “But it doesn’t matter. You can blame the witch all you want, but it doesn’t change the fact that he made a choice! To betray and abandon us, and to leave me just like—” You catch yourself, mouth clamping shut on the vulnerable words. 

Finan doesn’t speak, only watching you as the dim firelight dances over the handsome, yet despondent, planes of his face. He tucks a strand of hair behind your ear. Brushes a knuckle along your cheek, wiping what remains of your tears. 

Your tongue glides over dry lips, mind reeling slightly. He’s always so patient with you. So kind. 

And he’s here. 

Through damp lashes, you hold Finan’s soft gaze. “I’ll never forgive him for this,” you utter of Sihtric. You’ve been hurt so many times by people you cared about. Been left by too many of them. 

Finan gives a terse nod full of understanding. “You don’t have to.” 

“And I won’t sleep in that room,” you add. Your jaw clenches, fighting another wave of bitter emotion at the thought of laying in that big, lonely bed. “I can’t.” 

All too quickly, he says, “Then don’t. Sleep here.” 

A small wrinkle forms between your brows. 

With one hand still on your back, he lifts the other in mock surrender—an awkward gesture given the closeness of your bodies. 

“No funny business.” His vow is tinged with subtle amusement. A bit reluctant, he adds, “It’ll be just like the old days.” 

Back when he and Uhtred were first recovered from the slave ship—before you took Sihtric as your lover. 

You didn’t know Finan then, but you’d tended to his wounds all the same. Cleaned each brutal gash and stitched every cut; sat hunched in a chair until your back began to ache, plucking tiny splinters from his palms, the skin ravaged and raw from tireless hours spent rowing and rowing and rowing. 

But the worst wounds had been the ones unseen. 

The way his muscles tensed whenever he sat by the fire, the crackling logs too similar to the sound of a whip; how nightmares regularly tore him from sleep, blurring the lines between what’s real and what’s not. 

You treated those wounds, too. As best you could. 

Distracted him from the sounds of the fire with terrible quips and embarrassing stories. Spent late nights together in your room, talking about anything and everything until exhaustion would finally win out. And you’d still be there whenever he’d jolt awake, too, when the blackness of the room felt all too much like the hollow belly of the slave ship. 

A faint smile touches your lips. In spite of the awfulness, something beautiful had been born in those dark months. Something light. 

“The old days,” you muse, voice still hoarse from crying. “You mean back when you were always leaving your stench all over my bed?” 

Finan scoffs. “My stench?” He makes a real show of it—leaning in close, his wiry beard scratching at your cheek as he sniffs your hair, only to recoil with a look of exaggerated disgust. Deadpan, he jokes, “I think you must’ve been gettin’ a whiff of yourself, sweetheart.” 

Your laugh is a broken sound, but a laugh all the same. 

“You’re insufferable,” you tell him. 

The corners of his mouth twitch into a grin. “I think you mean irresistible.” 

Your eyes roll as you slide from his embrace. 

“I don’t.”

a/n: i wanna apologize to sihtric for making him seem like a total bitch in this, but tbf it's kinda his fault. maybe tell ur gf w/ all the abandonment issues about your plan, y'know?

anyways, i've been suffering over this piece for a full week now, so if you like it, please leave a comment/reblog/or write me an in-depth love letter about it!

[captainlunaxmen]

Frustration

Finan x fem!reader

Hi! I got this idea last night and thought to write, to ease the wait for the next Finnick's chapter.

Hope you'll like it, let me know❤️

Summary: The Reader can't stand when Finan opposes himself to her involvement in the group's plans.

Warnings: mention of bleeding, mention of sexual assault.

I can feel a headache growing in my skull, Uhtred and Finan have been fighting for far too long now.

I take a big gulp of ale and stand to join them and put an end to it. I get in between them, separating them.

"Would you please stop, now?" I demand, i turn to Finan, "I am going. End of story."

"No you're not." He insists and I deeply sigh, more frustrated then before.

"They don't know her! She can blend in better than us." Uhtred almost shouts out of frustration.

"He's right, Finan, it's the only way we can find out about their plans." Sihtric chimes in, supporting our plan.

"She can't." Finan insists, "no way."

"I can't?" I ask, "what's that supposed to mean?"

"You've not trained enough. It's too dangerous." Finan insists, hard expression on his face.

"Excuse me?"

"She's more prepared than me." Osferth supports us too.

"That doesn't say a lot..." Sihtric mutters.

"She's more than prepared, Finan." Uhtred declares, "she's going."

"End. Of. Story." I add, walking away, ignoring Finan's furious eyes.

I don't understand him, Finan never talks to me, never cared before tonight, and now he acts all mad about me going into the enemy's camp.

I file off my sword, ignoring whoever came in with me.

"I didn't want to ask in front of them, but.." Uhtred's voice is close, "are you sure you want to do it?"

Want... not can, at least he believes in my skills.

"I'm sure, lord." I look him in the eyes, "I'm sure."

"That's what I wanted to hear." He smiles, "all set?"

"Yes, lord." I nod vigorously.

"Let's send you off then!" He cheerfully pats my shoulder, then hugs me.

I say goodbye to everyone as I walk towards the camp. I feel a particularly angry stare piercing my skull as I walk off, but I decide to ignore it.

--------------

Well, that didn't go as planned.

I hold my bleeding arm as I hide from the Danes chasing me. I need to take the longer route to get back to my camp, so I can lose them.

I take a deep breath once I see in the distance Uhtred's camp, one last effort and I'll be safe.

"She's back!" I hear Osferth voice calling the others.

Once I arrive at the camp everyone else is already gathered there to greet me.

"What the fuck happened to you?" Sihtric exclaims.

"They didn't find out I work with Uhtred, if that's what you're wondering." I groan as I sit, Osferth is already kneeling beside me to check on my arm.

"Then what happened?" Uhtred asks, alarmed.

"Nothing particular." I answer.

"What?" The familiar hard tone of Finan is present.

"Nothing."

"That doesn't look like nothing." He insists.

"Am I about to die, Osferth?" I innocently ask the monk.

"Uh... n-no... it just needs stitches..." Osferth hesitantly answer.

"See?" I tilt my head, pointing at Osferth, "it's nothing."

"Y/n..." Uhtred sighs, "what happened?"

"One of the men wanted to 'have fun' with me as he said it." I explain, "I dared to say no."

"What?!" Finan exclaims, but recollects himself immediately.

"But I got the information you needed." I turn to Uhtred.

"I don't care about that now." He says, "are you okay?"

"I'm saying I'm fine. It was nothing." I insist, "they keep the hostages in a chariot, sort of, not many and-"

"You need to rest." Finan interrupts me, earning a glare from me.

"I said I'm fucking fine." I snap at him.

"He's right." Osferth agrees with his friend, "you did lose a great amount of blood apparently. Stay warm and I'll get you something to eat."

"I..."

"Do as he says, you'll tell us later." Uhtred orders. I groans out, but accept the blanket Sihtric brings me.

"Told you." Finan mutters to me and walks off before I could tell him something.

I groan in frustration and just sit there warming myself as I wait for Osferth.

--------------

I ate and they finally let me share all the information I gathered. Now we just need a plan to rescue the hostages.

As we plan I keep sensing Finan's eyes on me, and everytime I look up he stares, furious at me.

"Can I ask what's your problem?" I interrupt Uhtred.

Everyone looks at me confused then move their attention to Finan as well.

"Finan, she's coming too, I don't want a repetition of what happened the other day." Uhtred states.

"You saw what happened." Finan insists.

"I got back with information." I state the obvious.

"You got injured!"

"It was merely a scratch!"

"You're staying here!"

"I am not!" I shouts, "I'm part of this just as you are. I am coming. I am capable, I'm not a fucking child!"

I stand and walk away.

"Y/n..!" Uhtred calls.

"No. Call me when he decides to treat me with respect." I turn around and walk off, away from them. Away from Finan.

--------------

I enjoy the solitude, looking up at the sky when I hear footsteps coming closer.

"I told you my condition, Uhtred." I say.

"Not Uhtred." Finan's voice catches me off guard, I turn to look at him, he looks tired.

"What do you want?" I ask, turning away.

"I... I guess I wanted to apologise." He says softly.

"You guess?" I scoff, "more like Uhtred forced you."

"No... he just sent me off to think, and I cane to the conclusion that I owe you an apology." He sit beside me.

"Okay..."

"So... I'm sorry." He says softly.

"For...?" I urge.

"For looking out for you too much." He says.

"What?" I ask, confused, I stand up looking down at him, "looking out for me? Are you serious?"

He stands up too, and now he's the one looking down at me, since he's taller.

"Yes.."

"You thought that treating me like a child, was looking out for me?" I ask, frustrated.

"I was..."

"Shut up." I say walking away again, but stop when he grabs my wrist and turns me back to him.

"Talk to me." He almost pleads.

"Talk to you?!" I widen my eyes, "you're the one that doesn't talk to me... you don't talk to me, you ignore me, you treat me like a child, you treat me like I'm useless and incapable of helping... like I'm not part of this group and you ask me to talk to you?"

"I've never... I didn't mean it." He tries to explain.

"Then why? What did you mean?" I ask him. He just stares at me, so I insist, "so? Are you going to say so-"

His lips on mine cuts me off.

I'm stunned for not even a second before I kiss him back. Once his hands are on my body I can't think of anything else, but him.

I move my hands to his face, caressing his beard to pull him even closer.

Eventually we both need air and we pull away just enough to breath, but not too far.

"I'm sorry for treating you like a child." He breaths heavily as he apologies.

"What?" I ask, the kiss got too into my head I completely forgot what was going on, he chuckles and caresses my hips, leaning his forehead against mine.

"I'm sorry, my love." He repeats.

"It's.. it's okay." I say, still catching my breath.

"It's not, I shouldn't have treated you like that." He looks at me in the eyes, "I think the world of you, you're the best with the knives and you're definitely part of this group." He leave a quick peck on my lips, "I was afraid. And when you got back bleeding... I couldn't see anything else."

"Thank you." I say, stroking his cheek with my thumb, "just don't treat me like that ever again."

"I won't." He kisses me again, "I promise you." Another kiss, "fuck, I promise you."

He keeps kissing me and I chuckle at his eagerness.

"Okay... mmh.. okay, Finan." I say between his kisses, "contain yourself."

"Oh you're asking the impossible here, my sweet." He keeps kissing me, moving slightly down my neck.

"We still need a plan to rescue those hostages." I say and he stops with a sigh.

"You're right... as always." He nods.

"But I mean..." I start and his face lightens up, "once they're safe..."

"Yes?" He urges.

"Well... we'll see." I wink.

"Don't play with me, woman." He jokingly warns me.

"Or what?" I tease.

He smirks and wraps his arms around my waist pulling me completely against his body, he put a hand on my cheeks and just kisses me more deeply than before.

"I'm glad tou made up, but we have hostages to safe, c'mon!" Uhtred's voice startles us making us pull away.

"Coming, lord!" Finan calls, then he turns to me with a stupid smile on his face.

He pulls away and takes my hand leading me back to the camp.

Before he lets me go he pulls me to him once more to whisper into my ear.

"Once they're all safe, I'll take care of you myself, love." He says and walks to stand with Uhred, not before giving my ass a small smack.

I look at him shaking my head and then I sit next to Sihtric, who looks at me with a knowing smirk, I slightly shove him before our attention is back on Uhtred explaining the plan to us.

And this time, Finan doesn't have anything to say about my involvement.

[tlkfaerie]

Ribbons ੈ✩‧₊˚༺☆༻ੈ✩‧₊˚

pairing: Finan x reader

a/n: Response to a lovely request! My first request, actually! Finally doing a solo Finan piece :) A bit soppier than I had originally planned, but I love it and I love Finan soooooo. Also the circumstance / sequence of events aren't entirely accurately in line with the events of the show but we move.

MDNI!18+ : TW finan x reader, dom!finan, virgin!reader, virginity loss, manhandling, kissing, very brief mentions of loss, fingering, p in v sex, confessions of love, slight breeding!kink

˚　　　　✦　　　.　　. 　 ˚　.　　　　　 . ✦　　　 　˚　　　　 . ★⋆. ࿐࿔ 　　　.   　　˚　　 　　*　　 　　✦　　　.　　.　　　✦　˚ 　　　　

Things were tense when the men staggered back to the stronghold. They had won their latest battle involving Mercia and Bloodhair, though at the cost of a disastrous curse upon Uhtred's family. You selfishly prayed for Finan's safety, despite the two of you not being together. You were great friends, and though the others were familiar to you too, it was Finan that you truly wished to return in one piece.

You spent your time at home praying for the souls of those who had been lost, thinking about the wise words that Hild so graciously bestowed on you. You felt her absence more than ever, needing her sweet guidance, but aware that she was already spread thin. Everyone was.

As winter crept into your home, you wallowed slightly, missing everyone. But you had a duty, an alehouse to run. It was where you had met everyone originally, and had turned into somewhat of a cornucopia for Coccham. You knew that in order to keep spirits high, you'd have to open it up and welcome everyone in. Your hearth was where you had first met Finan, sitting with Uhtred as the two of them laughed. Hild had introduced you, and your speechlessness was the source of several laughs.

You had sat with them on the table that night, laughing with Hild, who you truly saw as your aspiration. Uhtred noticed this, joking about how you reminded him of his children, which had made you huff slightly. You were embarrassed of this, but Finan assured you that you were alright, muttering some joke about how you clearly had the spirit of a warrior within you to deal with these drunken men.

It had been a slow night, but you would rejoin them when you could, smiling at Finan every now and then. Finan's eyes had scrunched up too, but his lingering look had you blushing all throughout the night. From then on, the warriors had frequented your place. You and Finan would often sit and chat. He loved that he could talk to you. For once, it was not about war, or combat, or blasted shield walls. He was sick to death of hearing the names Alfred or Edward, and you gave him peace from all of that.

It filled you with warmth to see everyone so carefree and jolly, especially as it was your father's wish when he opened the alehouse to make an honest place of it. Every now and then, a regular face would vanish, and you felt it like a sting in your core, but you carried on nevertheless.

You lived just above the alehouse, walking down the steep wooden steps as you tried to alleviate your chill. Nothing seemed to work. Lighting candles and preparing some food for the hungry travellers that would arrive soon. You had heard news that the travelling party were returning from Winchester within the next few hours, feeling sadness at the inevitable loss and pain that would be felt all through the town, but also the deep, hidden feelings of desire that you so heavily pushed to one side.

Every time you saw Finan leave, you felt a tinge of regret within you. After all, he was Uhtred's right hand man by all accounts, and great responsibilities were often given to him. What if he were to never return? You supposed it was silly to think more of your confessions being told than him returning with his life, but you were sick of pushing down these feelings. You felt like some sort of angel when his gaze fell on you, which it did, often. And when he would come in for a final glass of ale, though what you didn't know is that he was really just looking for an excuse to talk to you.

He had seemed grave when you saw him last, trying to keep smiling at you but looking away darkly every now and then. You, none the wiser, had given him a cheerful departure, promising a full meal for him and his friends upon his return. You had assured him that the plate would be waiting for him, only if he came home in one piece. The gesture was halfhearted, though to him it was a challenge. He had left beside Uhtred, meditating upon his horse about you.

You.

Finan really, really loved you. He was always incredibly outgoing, and so you assumed he would just wed someone more like him, but Finan dreamed of you almost every night. It tortured him that he was so quick with his words, and yet they seemed to disappear from him whenever he saw you. Your plump lips, your wide eyes, full of life and unsoiled by the rot of death. You were the exact opposite of what he encountered on his missions and tasks, and though he loved his life alongside his trusted Lord, he wanted something to do it all for. And that something was you. He would make sure of that.

As both of your feelings nearly spilled over each other, it was time for someone to do something.

It seemed like you had wasted your whole day, silently waiting for the evening to come, when finally, you heard some commotion - your heart sent flashes of longing through you. You felt somewhat pathetic, watching the door of your alehouse for that specific person to come through. But, when you know, you know.

Suddenly, a stream of townsfolk walked in. Some came holding hands, some even came with their children, which you didn't mind, offering them some meat pies and ruffling their hairs. You spoke with some of the women, delighted to have their husbands back and eager to get you away to spend time with them soon. You joked about being stuck behind the brewery, handing out copious pints of ale. Within the next twenty minutes, your hands were so sticky that you started flapping them furiously.

Finally, you made your way outside, wanting to do a round of everyone sitting on the benches. There, you found Finan and Osferth. Sihtric was over in the corner, with his wife, the two of them beckoning you towards them.

Giving them quick greetings, you drunk in some of the news from Sihtric, who informed you that Uhtred was still in Winchester for some time with Hild, and that he had suffered a great loss. Your head bowed at that, not wanting or needing to know any more. You wished the both of them and their children well, before granting a weak smile to the two men now before you.

Osferth gave a weak smile, fondly remembering happier times in the alehouse and wishing he could match his previous energy. You hugged him tightly, knowing he was more sensitive and newer to the trade of being a warrior, though you didn't expect him to hold on so tightly to you. You sunk into his unfamiliar embrace for a moment, before Osferth pulled away.

And there he was. Finan. You had never seen him looking more tired, slightly long hair giving him a dishevelled look. Though equally, he was beautiful. No amount of sadness could take away the kind, observant look in his eyes. He seemed to be in his own world, and you didn't want to disturb, but then he looked at you, and the faintest smile stretched onto his lips.

You wanted Finan to hold you. You wanted his warm embrace then and there, but something told you it would take a little more time. His brows are furrowed and a strong wrinkle emerges between them, telling you that he is far from relaxed. You gulp slightly, the promise of a meal still hanging in the air.

With a hand still on Osferth's shoulder, you said nothing as you gave him an empathetic nod, tilting your head and smiling as best as you could. Your chest filled with relief when his little wrinkle disappeared. The shadows lifted just slightly, and there he was. He understood you somehow, an unspoken look flittering between you, and then you were gone.

There was so much you wanted to talk to Finan about. You ached to have your friend back, even if that dynamic did pain you. He still came to the tavern, even when Uhtred returned, though he was unusually silent as weeks flew by. Even as things picked up and spirits were back to normal, Finan seemed to be stuck somehow.

You entertained mostly Uhtred and Sihtric most nights, helping them heal ever so slightly with perhaps a little too much ale. You had even begun watering it down less, which did not go unnoticed by them. You prayed with Osferth too, mostly to keep him company.

It wasn't until a whole month had passed that you could no longer take it. Finan's usual loud voice could no longer be something of the past. You needed to tell him how you felt. You knew that you had to do something tonight.

You spent far too long in the mirror during the hour before you would open. You knew it would be a busy night, as the snow had finally ceased, and people were no longer cooped up in their homes. They would want warm drink and entertainment, and you would give them just that.

"Come on, Y/N." You nudged yourself, looping two ribbons into the two braids that you had meticulously gathered with your unruly hair, pinching your cheeks before letting out a slight laugh. You hadn't realised just how much you truly valued Finan's entire personality until it changed whenever you came near. Surely freshening up a bit would impress him?

Meanwhile, as though he was mirroring you, Finan ran his hands through his hair, sitting patiently in his own company. He had been surrounded by his loud companions all day, laughing and working, enjoying any semblance of peace that he could. The Irishman thought of nothing but you, however, and felt that if he did not do something soon he would combust into a million pieces.

Truthfully, after his last visit to Mercia, he had pulled back from you slightly. He needed you so deeply, but couldn't bear the thought of making you wait around for him, worrying if he would come home or not. There was also the additional danger of his weapons everywhere, his being at Uhtred's side constantly, and the threat of having something so precious to him be so targeted. He wanted you more than he wanted to breathe.

After that first day where you had been babbling to Hild in your alehouse, he was stunned. He was in awe of how you ran the place, even with the death of your father, never allowing anyone to step on your toes, even though he would have been more than willing to help. He admired your trust in things, never fearing of the worst, unlike he had. Since his days on the ship, all he had craved was something, anything, to come home to.

Nothing had filled that space until he saw you prancing around the alehouse, clumsily spilling drinks and shaking your sticky hands in his face to annoy him, your loud laughter echoing in his mind even now as he had tried to pull you into the mess you had made.

The memory shone in his mind, so prominent that he quite literally couldn't think straight. He didn't want to be absent towards you now, but his very existence intermingling with yours was a threat to your life, and perhaps your happiness. Could he do that to you?

As the tavern bustled into life, you couldn't stop fiddling with your braids. Some of your friends had offered to touch them up, which only worried you more, but they teased you still, pinching your cheek when you had confessed to them what you were going to do tonight.

You would your hands into the handles of at least ten cups, delivering them to the table of several hefty warriors who barely fit on your stools, making a mental note to get some warrior-friendly seating arranged.

"Here you are boys," you greeted them lightly, recognising a few, particularly Uhtred, who looked like he had seen better days. His hair was loose, strewn all over his face, but a smile graced his face, which reassured you.

"You might want to slow down, Lord," you teased, anticipating his reaction. He cocked his brow, piercing blue eyes observing you graciously. "Y/N, you're too good to me. Too good." He raised a glass to you, and you playfully rolled your eyes, a renewed sense of confidence overtaking you.

As you were about to turn around, you collided with hard leathers, belonging to a very firm chest. Towering above you was Finan. You quickly fiddled with your braid, hoping he would be enticed by them. So stupid, you thought to yourself.

"Have you forgotten what incredibly handsome men look like, or are you just surprised to see me?" said Finan, voice just above a whisper. Your eyes widened at his question, hand coming up to slap his bare arms. He hadn't been this perky in a while, and it shocked you, to say the least. You were happy to see him back to normal. Though he always carried an air of dominance with him, the softer side of him was always welcome.

There was a strange determination in his eyes, as if he had woken up. "Trust me, with you in front of me every day, I could hardly forget what a handsome man looks like." Your emboldened state of mind matched his newfound confidence, and the two of you were back to being the same people that you were when you first met. Finan forgot, just for a second, about the reek of death and its hanging in the air.

Instead, he took you in. Your fresh braids, which he suspected you had done just for him. He felt so warm, even in the bitter winter, and your eyes gazing at him as though he was the kindest man on earth brought him more security than anything else in the world.

His presence alone was enormous. You had to shake your head to remember what you were really here to say to him. He had laughed at your previous remark, taking the confident proudly.

"You look so beautiful, Y/N." he stated fondly, content to spend the rest of the night with you. Your cheeks heated at his words, and you looked away, but not before his strong hands found your chin, raising your face to meet his brown eyes once more. He simply could not wait any longer.

"You always look beautiful, and I'm sorry if I've ever made you feel like you aren't", he huffed, acknowledging his own mental absence. You felt the tenderness in his touch, against the rough scarring on his hands. You smiled sadly, wishing he didn't have to be treated so roughly. Your softer hands found his, holding them tightly.

"I suppose I sh-" but before he could finish his sentence, he was interrupted by a loud crash. You were quick to inspect the commotion, not realising that the two of you were still firmly holding hands. It hadn't occurred to you until his grip tightened, dwarfing your entire hand in his. You couldn't help but smile, especially when you discovered what the scene before you was all about.

Two women were having at it, fighting like animals. These were women you knew, and so you were shocked to see them go at one another, enough even to draw blood. You considered for a moment why two familiar faces would be fighting, but the two had recently mentioned their escapades with Osferth, who was a babbling mess at the scene before him.

Finan cursed. Truly, he couldn't help but laugh. Of course, this stupid baby monk would intervene in some way, he thought to himself. You giggled at Osferth's expression as the women were finally separated by Finan, who begrudgingly let go of your hand. He felt so juvenile, clinging to you like a crush, but he simply couldn't help himself.

"Umm, I thought monks weren't allowed to hump," was all he said, before leaving the poor boy to defend for himself, returning to you. As he walked over, you felt the life reemerge within him. He was smiling so much you almost couldn't take it.

"Now that's a hero," you laughed as he spread his arms out, congratulating himself. You couldn't keep yourself from moving about, however, unable to stay still in his presence. Your mind constantly filtered through possibilities of what he was about to tell you, meanwhile your own looming confession was being stuffed further and further back in your mouth. You weren't entirely sure what he was going to say to you. Perhaps he was going to tell you to stay away from him . . .

Any suspicions of his rejection, however, were entirely forgotten when both of his hands came to cup your face. The act felt so intimate that your legs almost quivered, and you braced yourself to fall over. His head leaned back slightly, and he breathed heavily, taking you in. Finan, filled with confidence, had bee brought to his knees by you. You and your ribbon braids.

"Can we talk somewhere, please. Perhaps when it's a little less busy, lady?" you understood, but couldn't help the frustration that grew within you as your conversation was prolonged yet again. You simply nodded, but that didn't seem to be enough for him, judging by his widening eyes.

"After closing, Finan, come up the stairs, I'll be in my room." You hadn't realised just how suggestive that sounded until Finan's eyes widened even more, and he cocked his head with a cheeky grin, retorting something about you being more forward than ever. You slapped his chest, mocking his childishness, though before you could fully manage to hit him, he grabbed your wrist with ease.

His arm flexed, and he quickly pulled you in, your feet stumbling to keep up with his strength, until you felt his breath on your face, and you were close enough to be touching his lips.

"Quite the invitation, lady," he half joked, but in reality, he as already counting down the hours. "I will be there, Y/N."

After what felt like the longest night in history, the last of the crowd finally retreated from the alehouse. You were itching to see Finan. Since the two of you last spoke, you had barely seen him. Uhtred was shamefully taken home by Sihtric, who you were amazed was sober. The rest of the men and women left together, and you said your final goodbyes, closing the doors. This time, however, you didn't lock them.

You trudged upstairs, tiredness hitting your body. After hours, you finally took a seat on the edge of your bed, fiddling with the silly plaits that you had worried so much over. You sensed Finan's presence when there was a slight moan of old wood being pressed as he walked up to meet you. You had so much to say to him you could hardly contain yourself, rising from your sitting position.

Finan gave a polite knock, but didn't bother waiting, bending under the doorframe before returning to his natural state, giving you an incredibly sheepish look. You stuttered slightly, but told him to sit. You quickly realised that a man had never been up to your room. It was spacious enough, with a large bed of furs and enough space for plenty of candlelight.

"Please, sit, Finan." you held your hand out as if to show him the way, guiding yourself to the edge of your bed. Finan let out a small laugh at your sudden formality, bending as if giving you a mocking bow before sitting next to you.

Even though he had been the one to initiate conversation last time, you made it your mission to get there before him, wanting to get your own point across before he said anything to you.

"Finan, I have to tell you," you started, feeling an awful mist of tension heating up your body suddenly, " I just - I hate," you sighed in frustration, groaning as you could hardly get the words out. Finan seemed heavily amused, beckoning you to continue.

"I just really enjoy when you're here." Pathetic. "And I don't like it when you're gone away for weeks. And I worry for you when you're not here, even though I have faith in you."

Once you break the seal, you can hardly stop. Finan takes in every word as though it is gospel, but you hardly notice as you babble on.

"Obviously you're strong, and umm, and handsome, and you speak well enough to get yourself out of trouble,"

"Oh, do keep going, lady. I've never been so flattered." he raised a hand to his chest, feigning shyness. You glared at him, embarrassment curling itself around your neck, blocking any clear thought from entering your head. Finan quickly sensed your frustration, placing a hand on your thigh to steady you.

But that just made it worse.

"And then I think we're good, but you don't speak to me f-for weeks, Finan. And then you touch my thigh like this!" You could almost laugh at yourself, truly, "and I just want you all of the time, and I think we . . . I think we should be together."

With your final declaration out of the way, you feel a fatal sense of worry overcome your body at his shocked face. The hand on your thigh doesn't move, however. It tightens.

"Y/N," he starts, and you brace yourself for the worst, "Please, I want to be with you too. I stayed distant, because, well because I didn't want anything to happen to you. If I am with you, then I'll have something to actually fight for," he looked down as he continued, clearly stressed, "but then if I have something to fight for I'll have something to lose as well."

You began to understand him clearly. With what he had seen, particularly with recent events, there was always a risk involved. Perhaps what made him so good is that everything he previously needed to protect was always on the battlefield with him. The two of you together would be a constant source of worry for him. You could be kidnapped, taken hostage, injured while he was away.

"But, Finan, every time you've left, nothing has happened to me. I'm here, aren't I? Entirely whole."

"But it's different, or, it would be different," he stressed, hands flying up as he spoke.

"The only difference is I'd be yours. And I want to be yours, Finan."

He looked at you then. Really looked at you. His hand ran through his beard, and any semblance of composure that he had snapped when you bit your lip. Perhaps he was being ridiculous. Perhaps he was thinking about things too deeply. After all, he was an entirely competent warrior. If anything happened, he would be able to solve it.

He could barely control himself any longer, when your hand came to fiddle with the ribbons weaved into your loosening braids. You had never looked more innocent and enticing - he physically couldn't stand what you were doing to him.

Meanwhile, you took note of his chest heaving, feeling your own heartbeat gain speed. You decided to let even more out, noticing his gaze shifting to your hair.

"I plaited these for you, I thought they would impress you." The sheepish truth had you looking down, realising that the two of you had been stupidly restricting one another whilst simultaneously trying to impress one another in a hideously drawn out back and forth. Sorrows had settled, and now you wanted him. You needed Finan.

"They do impress me, most definitely," he assured you, teasing you slightly with his reaction. He found you utterly adorable, that you had done some little change to please him, "but you already caught my attention without the ribbons, Y/N."

The cross around his neck gleamed as it dangled, moving slightly as he leaned down to meet your face as you sat beneath him on the bed. The tenderness of the moment had been replaced by burning passion.

"Finan, I-"

"Say my name again."

"Finan-" You couldn't even finish before his lips crashed into yours. Everything melted away when you kissed. Every semblance of a problem disappeared, and it was just you and Finan. He revelled in the idea that you were his woman, spoiling himself with the very thought of it.

You, meanwhile, were growing incredibly impatient. The man in front of you was something else, his muscles straining as his hands trailed down to your waist and picked you up. You instinctively wrapped your legs around his strong waist, arousal beginning to leak from within you as his grip tightened. He couldn't get enough of you, and he never wanted to let you go.

"I hope you know, love, that I'm keeping you forever." He smiled, adjusting you a little so that you felt the bulge of his crotch just underneath your sex, friction causing you to whine slightly. You weren't entirely sure if Finan was aware that you were a virgin, but the feeling of his body against yours prevented you from saying anything.

"Let me hear you." he demanded as he looked up at you, and thought he was still the Finan you knew, an air of seriousness had overcome him, and the words that came from him were dominating. You understood now how he managed to control armies the way he did.

You buried your head between his neck and shoulder, drooling slightly as you let out a moan at Finan's undying strength. With your undergarments pulled to the side by the stretch of his fingers, he made sure to move you up and down ever so slowly, rubbing against his crotch even more until your naked sex could take it no more.

The fabric of his trousers was an obstacle that you needed to be removed as soon as possible. Though the friction created waves of pleasure, the way he was holding you had you panting for more.

"Please, Finan, take them off." you looked into his eyes, which held an amused stare. He took your worn out image in, unable to believe how lucky he was. Any negative thought about the relationship between you two could be dealt with later, right now he had you securely in his arms, entirely fucked out without him even properly touching you yet.

You fastened your legs around his waist, which made him laugh. "You're telling me what to do now, is it?" truthfully, he would let you do or say anything you wanted. He was wrapped around your little fingers, and he knew it well.

"Love, I can't do what you ask if you continue to cling to me like a pup," he wore a toothy grin on his face, amusement growing in time with your own frustration. You loosened your thighs from his hold, and he set you down gently on your own bed. You fidgeted when you realised what would happen once his trousers were off, if you even managed to wait that long.

You watched him undo his breeches, only to around halfway, not even letting them slide down his legs before he came to you again. You leaned your head into his arm, nuzzling instinctively into his hold like some trained animal. You felt you would burst, declaring "I love you," before he could say anything else.

"I love you too, you and your ribbons." he flicked your braid with his finger, drawing you in to a loving kiss. You were slightly stunned at his lack of hesitation, any precaution having been abandoned by him. Finan felt it as well, the swell of pride that filled him as he announced his love for you, not even questioning the words. He knew them to be true, and he knew that with you as his woman, he was entirely complete.

Your next words, however, did catch him off guard.

"I've never been with a man, Finan." you confessed, maintaining eye contact with him as you waited for his reaction, worrying that he would be less eager to bed you with your inexperience. Finan tried to fight the impure thoughts as they wavered in his brain, unable to keep his hands off you as he thought of a way to reassure you without sounding too patronising, as he usually managed.

When he still didn't say anything, it prompted you to finally look away from him, wondering if he really cared about it as much as you thought.

"Hey, where's my lady gone?" he moved to sit beside you, feeling somewhat of a fool that his bulge was straining against the half of his breeches that still hung from his hips, and you with your dress bunched up so high that all he could think about were the stockings slipping down your delicate thighs. You didn't have the faintest idea of the impact you had on him right now.

He wasn't entirely sure how much more restraint he could exercise. "I don't care about that, I want to be the only man that ever gets to touch you from now on, anyway." he buffed his chest to try and make you laugh, but you didn't give him the satisfaction of laughing, too engrossed in lulling over the words he had just uttered.

"I want to be your only woman, Finan." and with that, you kissed him forcefully, adjusting your body so that you could straddle his frame, his heavy arms wrapping around your waist, bringing you further into his kiss. His hands moved down to your ass, squeezing firmly. Your mouth remained open when he allowed them to slip further down your thigh, toying with the hem of one of your stockings. They were cheap things, made for you with the purpose of convenience, and yet he was treating them like they were pure gold.

"I don't think I'll be sharing you with anyone anytime soon, love," he managed to whisper into your ear, your hands finding his hair and gripping tightly when he inserted two fingers into you, the promise of 'getting you ready for him' hanging in the air. The feeling was unlike anything you had experience, a welcome intrusion to your core. You felt his fingers curl, pushing up as far as they could go, meanwhile his thumb also occupied a space on your clit, rubbing ever so gently whenever he could to bring you pleasure.

You felt your thigh muscles trembling as you still straddled him on your knees, his head on your shoulder, occasionally kissing your neck, creating his own little mark on you. Finan knew he was possessive. He had to remind himself to be gentle with you, however, removing his fingers and inserting them again, wanting to tease you slightly.

You gave a quick tug to his thick hair in retaliation, which he seemed to like as he groaned and leaned back in order to see your face. You couldn't help a satisfied grin, otherwise looking rather empty as you thought of nothing but pleasure.

"Careful there," he said, returning his attention to kissing your neck, marking it with a slight bite. His warm lips on your skin affected you in ways you hadn't thought possible. You wondered why he hadn't put his fingers back inside of you, but you felt him fidget beneath you, until his cock was fully out, brushing back and forth against your sex. The two sensations together, of his lips and his cock, very nearly sent you over the edge embarrassingly soon.

The ghost of pleasure kept pulsating at your core, his hand moving his cock back and forth ever so slowly, sometimes seeming as though he was about to slip in and then releasing altogether from you. You hated it, the absence and the longing, playing tricks with your mind and turning you into some kind of depraved whore.

"Finan, I swear-"

"You swear what, lady?" he taunted you, still not close enough as his arm adjusted its claim around your waist, your breasts squishing into his own chest as you practically kneeled over the top of him, wanting to push him down to finish the job yourself.

"If you don't hump me soon, I will personally ban you from this very alehouse." shocked at your own feistiness, you hadn't imagined Finan to take your word so literally. Before you knew it, your back hit your bed of furs, and Finan now kneeled above you, playing with himself, tugging back and forth, his hard cock so prominent you felt it would break you.

And break you it did. His tip finally breached your walls, before his entire member felt your insides. Your core was so full, so unbelievably full. The pressure seemed to build before he even began to move, and you released several short pants, biting back a moan that he seemed to want to encourage out of you as he moved his hips just slightly, his muscled core meeting your soft, pliable thighs, now up in the air, hanging from his grip.

You were entirely at his mercy, so pliant for him, and so good for him. "I hadn't expected you to listen well, and you proved me right," he started, moving in and out once, so tantalisingly slowly that you felt every curve, vein and pulse going through him, "I told you to be careful, didn't I sweet girl?"

Though he was teasing, he still wanted to make sure you were okay. He didn't move until your face lost the scrunch and your eyes opened to look at him, heavy breathing turning into moans as your impatience move.

"Move, Finan." And that was all he needed to hear, moving in and out of you with some force, his hands clamping into the soft flesh of your thighs, still admiring the stockings that you wore, reminding himself to ask you to wear them more often.

Your lips fell open in a gasp when he sped up even more, soft 'good girls' coming from his lips in murmurs. He let go of one of your thighs, letting your leg fall to the bed, while his free hand now moved to your stomach, pressing down on your core and feeling exactly where he was inside of you. He pumped so rhythmically that you began to think you'd truly reached heaven, the additional pressure applied by his strong hands becoming too much for you.

He watched your face, assessing you to ensure you were still comfortable. The last thing he wanted to do was hurt you in any way. You felt funny, a strange tingling, almost like a warning, reaching your core.

"F-Finan, I think . . ."

He shushed you, understanding what you meant. Who was he to deny such a lovely maiden what she wanted? "Just breathe, Y/N, don't fight it, sweet girl," he guided you, the pressure of his hand increasing. He maintained his pace, feeling your walls tighten and squeeze around him, clamping so hard he struggled to keep up.

"Come on, there we are," he further encouraged, and normally, you'd tell him to shut up, his words embarrassing you slightly, but you were so filled with delicate pleasure that you couldn't risk losing it. The immense pinch in your core finally snapped, and you were coming around him, pumping him for all he was worth as your arousal came to its peak. Your face made him positively weak at the knees.

"There we go," he cooed, his hand coming to your clit to stimulate you more, though you began begging him not to, trying and failing to grab his wrist in the process. You bit your lip instead, eyes all glossy and strained as you looked at your lover as though he was God. Perhaps he was, because no mortal man should have been able to make you feel so good.

"Please come, Finan." you whined sweetly, and he could never deny you as he had done before. He would listen to you if you told him to do anything, let alone come, which he did gladly, pumping you full of his seed, thinking briefly about the pups you could share. The pups that you would share.

His heart pumped ten times as fast as he bred you, vowing to be the only man to touch you ever again. His possessiveness had seemed to grow in the last hour, and he lifted you suddenly onto his lap, caressing the top of your head as you panted in unison.

"We'll speak properly tomorrow," he began, stroking your now undone hair. Your ribbon barely hung on, and you wound it around his fingers, the fabric reminding him of your sweet confession, something that he knew he would tease you about for years to come, but secretly loved, "sleep for now, love."

He stayed awake for most of the night, observing you every now and then, mostly focusing on the sway of the candlelight. He had seen his lord go through so much, and now he had something too precious to lose, he vowed that the same would not happen to him. Even if it cost him his loyalty.

[mommytauriel]

+ · 。~ attractive things finan does.

pairing: Finan x female! reader | genre: fluff | warnings: none that I know of, kissing is mentioned a few times | wc: 822 |

synopsis: an attractive man, does attractive things

request: no

note: I’m slowly trying to get back into my tlk writing, so I thought it would be perfect if I made a finan version of ‘attractive things they do’ comment what character I should do next for this! 🤗

Thank you @dailytlk for letting me use the lovely gif!

always helps you. Even when you don't need help, he is always there to help you. He enjoys knowing that he is making things easier for his love. Whether it's helping you with picking up your arrows when you practice or helping you on your horse, all things that you could easily do yourself. Some would think that he's just really possessive (he is to an extent) but he genuinely finds so much joy in helping you with things. He also likes knowing the fact that he's also just making things easier for you. He just likes taking care of you. No matter what it is, he's always there to help you. Sometimes he does get possessive, but he really just likes it if he's the one helping you and not others.

brags about you. He is very proud to have such a wonderful significant other like you and is not afraid to let others know. He knows that others find you beautiful and would jump for the opportunity to be with you, so sometimes it's to let others know that you are his and to make them jealous (he likes reiling them up, but can you blame him?) but the other times is simply because you make him so happy and he can't stop talking or thinking about you. He mentions you a lot, but when he gets tipsy/drunk that's when he really brags about you to his friends, they don't mind it. They like seeing their friend so happy and in love. Finan is your biggest supporter but sometimes he can get a little carried away but it's okay. You know it's just because he loves you very much.

always finds a way to touch you. I think it's no surprise that Finan is a clingy lover, he just loves having you close…and touching you. In bed the two of you are always touching, he loves cuddling and holding you close to him. He’s not picky on sleeping positions, as long as the two of you are close and he knows you're safe, he’s fine with anything. When you're walking together, he’s holding your hand or has his hand on your lower back, guiding you. When you're standing next to each other, his arm is wrapped around your shoulder or waist. When you're out drinking with your friends he likes to have you close by his side or sitting on his lap, his arm around you. He likes when you lean your head on his shoulder, or hold onto his arm. When you kiss he can’t keep his hands off you, holding your waist, his hands on your cheek, his hands exploring your body even though he has every part of you already memorized. He finds so much comfort in your touch, it reminds him that he’s not alone.

keeps eye contact. Finan is attentive, especially to his significant other. He wants them to know that he is listening/paying attention to them. So whenever you’re talking to him, his eyes are always on you and you can’t help but get flustered under his gaze. He also just loves looking at you, his eyes are always finding you in crowds. He just gets so lost in your eyes, and he can’t help but imagine his future with you. He sees happiness and his future in your eyes. He truly loves you. (He’s quite the romantic tbh) He enjoys flirting with you and watching your reactions, he just finds you so lovely and he loves how reactive you are to him 🤭

enjoys teasing you. Okay so I can see how this can be seen as something that’s not attractive, but with him it’s not like that. Finan doesn’t tease you in a negative way, his teasing doesn’t leave you annoyed and upset. No, his teasing leaves you, flustered and needy. When your doing something like cooking, he likes to hug you from behind and leave kisses on your neck, he doesn’t listen to you when you tell him not to distract you, and just when you give in and turn around to kiss him; he gives you a teasing smile and leaves you to what you were doing. Or when your laying in bed ready to sleep, that’s when finan starts to tease you, soft kisses, small touches…it’s obvious what he’s doing and you try so hard not give in, but of course you do (I mean it’s finan like come on, who wouldn’t)and when you give in, he gives you an innocent smile and a kiss on the forehead, stopping his advances and saying goodnight. And that leaves you flustered and needy. Finan knows you so well that he knows what he can do to get you to that point of giving in, only to stop once you do. He knows what he’s doing and he knows how to do it well, and that’s hot as fuck.

note: hello everyone! I’ve missed you all 🥹 I’m sorry I haven’t been able to post anything for like a month, but like I said in the first note, I am trying to get back into my tlk writings.

I hope everyone has been doing well! And I hope you all enjoyed this! I enjoyed writing this, finan is such a fun character to write for, I love him so much!

I also want to say to the people who have sent in requests! I have seen them! And I do plan on doing them! I’m sorry that it’s taken me so long to get them out, I’m not a fast writer 😵‍💫

Please comment and tell me what you think of it, I would love to hear your thoughts.

taglist: @clairacassidy @mads-weasley @bubblyabs @childsuppor

copyright © 2023, all rights reserved. you can't copy, translate, reproduce, repost my fic, use my plot or layout.

[breanime]

Bre's Random Thots: HOTD and TLK Edition

In relation to this poll-- don't forget to vote!

Warning: Steamy, NSFW, yandere tendencies, if you know what I am, you know what this is gonna be lol

Characters: Aemond Targaryen, Sihtric Kjartansson, Finan the Agile

I'm considering writing: Sigtryggr Ivarsson, Uhtred Ragnarsson, Cregan Stark

Obsessed Arranged Marriage--Aemond Targaryen

Aemond found no sleep the night he was told that his hand had been promised to you, afraid if he closed his eye, he would awaken from this dream. You were to be his. You, with your sharp wit and bright mind and pretty face and soft-looking, plump lips. Aemond had spent months pining for you, fixated on his sister's pretty new friend, wanting nothing more than to touch you, hold you...

Claim you.

And now, you would be his, bound to him by law and vow, promised to him through weeks of negotiations that neither of you had been privy to. He had spent the first part of the night pacing, thinking of all the ways it could go wrong. What if your family withdrew and broke their promise? What if, after the vows had been said, you did not accept him? What if you never loved him? Aemond's pacing had ceased at that thought, his stomach churning in a swirl of despair and rage at the idea of you rejecting him. But then, as he pictured you, his mind supplied him with an answer to his silent question. What if you never loved him?

He would have you still.

Aemond stood, silent and tense, as he pictured you, his pretty wife, bound to him until death took you both. Even if you never loved him, he would have you. You would be his, and he spent the next portion of his evening imagining, in great detail, all of the ways he could claim you. He pictured the way your mouth would look around his cock, stuffed with him, eyes wide open and gazing up at him as you sat on your knees. He thought of the sounds you would make as he fucked you--no, made love to you--no. Fucked.

The last of the night, until the sun rose and his body, already dedicated to pleasing you, sagged with exhaustion, was spent fucking his fist, pretending it was your mouth, your cunt, your tight, tiny asshole, until Aemond had emptied his balls.

And still, he wanted you.

Aemond watched the sun rise over King's Landing, heard the low grumbles of Vhagar rising in the distance, and sighed. His hand was still feebly wrapped around his now soft cock, abused to exhaustion at just the thought of you, his wife to be.

He felt himself twitch in his hand, tempted at the reminder of what you would become to him--his wife, and Aemond couldn't help but smirk, amused at his own desperation. You were to be his, and his alone.

He would have you.

Sihtric Kjartansson--Modern Jealous

Sihtric had an Instagram for two reasons: one, because Finan said it was weird not to have one, and two, because you had an Instagram.

He scrolled through his feed, ignoring most of the posts, but taking note of a few. Edward posted a picture with Uhtred at some conference the latter had been forced to go to, using Sihtric's friend to gain clout, no doubt. Meanwhile, Uhtred posted a story--tagging Sihtric, of course--showing the guys going absolutely insane at the bar last night. Sihtric bit his lip as he watched the story, his mismatched eyes immediately finding himself in the background, even with Uhtred's shaky camerawork. Sihtric was easy to find, after all.

He was always standing next to you.

In the video, Uhtred was showing the crowd to the camera, grinning widely with Finan at his side, gesturing to a very drunk Osferth off to the side, clearly flirting with some girl while another watched, arms folded. Aldhelm was there as well, smiling shyly, eyes on his cup, as Aethelflaed, always that much more affectionate when tipsy, laid her head on his shoulder. Sihtric smiled warmly for a moment at the memory--it had been a good night, last night. The smile, however, quickly slid into a smirk as the images flashed in front of his eyes, documented by Uhtred. Sihtric saw himself, his tattoos glistening against his skin, holding you to him, his large hands on your waist. You were laughing, and Sihtric could almost hear the sweet sounds of your pleasure over the music, could see the way the sweat slid down your neck as you laughed. Even now, he felt himself stiffen, his cock rising at the thought of your neck, exposed for him, covered in his kiss, his bite. He had experienced a similar thought last night, and Sihtric watched as he acted on it.

In the video, Sihtric pulled you that much closer, one of his large hands gripping your ass, his tattooed fingers curling into your soft curves until his face was buried in your neck. He watched himself latch onto you, and his eyes widened as he saw, for the first time, the face you made when he did that. Sihtric grinned, teeth bared like a wolf, as he watched the way your face contorted; your cute little nose scrunched up as your pretty mouth fell open in a gasp, how your tiny little hands clung to him, wanting him closer, and Gods, Sihtric couldn't wait to see you again and get you closer, fuck, the way you looked, he just--

--the video morphed into the next slide, and Sihtric was reminded that this was Uhtred's story, as vivid as the memories were, what he was looking at now (a scowling Brida flipping off the camera while Cnut, red as a tomato, raised his empty glass in a toast), was public. Anyone could see it.

Anyone.

Could see it. You. Your sexy, beautiful face alive with pleasure.

Sihtric scowled, suddenly frustrated. That face was for him, and him alone. It wasn't fair that others could see it, would see it... but then again, Sihtric thought, barely registering the next slide of the story being shown-- Osferth with a third, different girl--maybe this was too his advantage. Sihtric enjoyed marking you up, displaying his claim on you. He liked to touch you too, keep an arm on you or his hand on your thigh, so everyone around could tell that you were his girl. And so now, with this video, that fact was broadcast that much further. really, he should be thanking Uhtred. Because now, everyone who followed him (which were a LOT of people, it was insane), could see those few seconds on his story and know, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that you were Sihtric's woman. The story flashed twice more, depicting Finan and Uhtred teasing Aldhelm-- about his crush on Aethelflaed, Sihtric knew, and then a video of a fondly exasperated Hild in a Sihtric-Uhtred-Finan bear hug while Osferth could be seen making out with a fourth girl in the background, before the story--and Sihtric's temper--flashed again.

The next image was of you and Uhtred. This did not spark Sihtric's temper at all; he loved how close you were with his friends, they all adored you, and Sihtric felt he could trust any of them to look after you if he was ever gone. In fact, the picture was cute. Sihtric took a screenshot so he could keep it. You stood beside Uhtred, posing the same as him, your face smug and proud in a perfect imitation of his brash friend. Since you were copying Uhtred, you were standing like him, feet apart, face forward, chest pushed up, that cute expression on your face making Sihtric's heart swell with affection. Immediately afterwards, Uhtred's story switched to a text box, and Sihtric saw that Uhtred had tagged him in it. The text read: "Stop asking about her, she's with @Sihtric" accompanied by an emoji rolling its eyes.

And that'd when the jealousy went from mild to... something else. His thumb moved as quickly as his mind did, until he was hearing a ringing tone followed by Uhtred sighing, "Yeah, Sihtric?" He already knew where this was going.

Sihtric knew he was being ridiculous, overprotective, and unnecessarily possessive, but he didn't know how else to be. You were his, and his only, and he thought he has made that clear. He answered Uhtred with a low voice, eyes narrowed.

"Who's been asking about my woman?"

Waking Up Together--Finan the Agile

Finan loved waking up with you. He loved how you cuddled into his chest, loved the way his big arms engulfed you, loved how soft you felt against him. He almost always woke before you did, a habit of his warrior lifestyle and constantly being on the move. He didn't mind it so much now, though, because it gave him some quiet time to reflect before the day took his mind away.

He loved you.

Carefully, because even after all this time, Finan still secretly feared he might somehow hurt you, he ran his fingers down your arm. Your skin was warm under his touch, and Finan smiled to himself as you nuzzled into his broad chest. He found himself kissing your hairline, his eyes fluttering shut as he breathed in your scent. He had humped you on the riverbank last night, his forehead pressed against yours as he fucked into you. Finan sighed at the memory, his cock, already half-hard simply from being near you, growing even harder as he recalled the feel of your wet pussy pulsating around him. He kissed your forehead now with a tenderness that would have surprised many if they knew about it. But you did that to him, brought out his softer side, his need to protect you, to take care of you, to bring you pleasure and security and to love you.

But then again, you brought out another side to him as well.

Finan smirked, kissing down to your nose, as he thought back to earlier the previous day, sometime after him having you for breakfast, his strong hands keeping your legs open as he licked into you and before him pressing against your round ass, his cross slapping into his chest with every thrust shortly after he fucked you on the riverbank, to right after suppertime.

Finan held you close now as he thought back to the way he had slammed you on the table, tearing your dress, grinning wildly as the fabric ripped, exposing your perfect breasts to his probing tongue and hands. He had his face buried between your tits then, biting into your supple flesh and then soothing it with his dripping tongue. He had no patience then, and he took you hard and fast, much to your mutual satisfaction. Finan had fucked you like a beast, hands gripping your hips and pulling you to him as you laid on your back, legs in the air, head thrown back in pleasure. You always took him well, and Finan adored the way you loved a rough fuck. He was so big, so thick, he loved the way you would tremble taking him.

Now, Finan was fully hard. He wanted you, and he sighed sweetly as he held you, lips brushing against yours. Your nose twitched at the feel of his beard against your soft face, and Finan chuckled. He leaned forward, the mattress moving beneath him as one large hand fell to your ass, cupping it firmly as he pushed you even closer, his hard cock pressing against your soft tummy. He felt your lips pucker, and he knew you were waking up. He kissed you, soft and slow, his mouth pressing into yours with a low groan, moving against you until your lips parted. His tongue slid into your mouth easily, and he rolled on top of you, smirking when you spread your legs to make room for him.

"Good mornin' to ya, love," he whispered, his accent thickened from waking up and from the deep, insatiable desire he felt for you, "Can I fuck you?"

************************************************************************

Okkkkk goodnight! Please let me know what you think, how you feel, which one you liked best. I wrote this all at once just now, so please know that NONE of these are WIPs (Work In Progress), I just was inspired by the awesome fics I've been reading lately, and @fvckthisbxtchup specifically got my engine revving today, so if you did like any of these, thank her! Love you babe!

Again, please let me know what you think of these. I haven't written in a long time, I'm rusty, I admit that, but I also had so much fun writing these, and I wanna interact with these fandoms more so... this! This is my third time writing Aemond and my first time wiritng Sihtric and Finan, so let me know how I did! :D

I did this poll regarding some more snippets or fics or drabbles or whatever I may do in the future, please vote if you haven't already!

Thank you for reading! I really appreciate it!

[lexyleblancc]

Every moment is worth this {Finan}

Summary: Finan comes home after several months, greeting his family happily 

Dad!Finan x Wife!Reader 

Warnings: Mentions of Pregnancy

Word count: 593 just a short little one :)

Disclaimer: Not proof read, i am far too lazy for that

Having a husband who craved adventure and was as loyal as they came, was not for the faint of heart. Months would pass without word on if he was alive or not. The children cried for their father during the peak of storms, and sometimes it felt as though he would never come home. Despite all the hard times, there was never a desire for something different, for someone who would come home at the end of every day. Finan was worth the worry, for when he found himself on the front step of the small house things were okay for a little while. 

“Momma! It’s Da!” The small voice of their youngest child called through the house. Before she had a chance to call back to the children, the front door was swinging open and several pairs of footsteps made their way outside. (Y/N) sighed to herself, placing a rag down on the counter and making her way to the door. Finan wasn’t supposed to be home for a few more days, so the possibility of whoever was walking through the village being him, was slim. 

“Da!” The oldest cried, sprinting towards the man who bent down to embrace his two children. “We missed you!” (Y/N) stood in the doorway in disbelief, a hand holding at her heart as tears filled her eyes. Finan had been gone longer than ever, the weeks turned into months quickly but he still looked the same. 

“I’ve missed you too, little Lady.” Finan grinned, kissing the girl’s forehead before turning to his son and doing the same. “You too, little warrior.” 

“Come, Ma is making breakfast!” Their daughter (Y/D/N) exclaimed, taking the man's hand in hers as she dragged him to the house. Finan finally looked at the house, a large grin on his face as his children fought to talk over one another, but the only thing he could focus on was her. As beautiful as the day he left, his heart swelling at the sight of her. 

(Y/N) wiped the tears from her face before they had a chance to linger, glancing down to the two excited children with a small laugh. “Alright you two, go wash up. Let your father in the house before you bombard him.” She said softly, shooing the siblings into the house so they could do as she said. 

Finan sighed happily, reaching for the woman in front of him and bringing her into his arms. “Welcome home, love.” 

“A warm welcome it is.” Finan grinned, leaning down and catching her lips with his. It was a slow, soft kiss, Finan drinking in every aspect of his radiant wife. “This pup is ready to join us any day now.” The man hummed, letting his hands fall to rest on her swollen stomach earning a kick from the babe. 

The couple laughed as (Y/N) nodded her head. “Seems this one was waiting for you.” She told her husband, wrapping her arms around his neck to bring his lips down to meet hers once more. “I’ve missed you so much.”

“I thought about you every second.” Finan mumbled into her hair, holding her tightly before the sound of squeals broke the couple apart. 

“Ma! Da! We’re so hungry.” Their son cried, making the couple laugh. 

“Then let's not wait any longer, aye?” Finan laughed, scooping his son into his arms and running into the house towards the living room. 

Every moment he was home, made Finan worth months of not being able to have him. 

[popcorn1989]

"I'm the real man here"

Note: It wasn't a request

Pairing: Osferth x Finan x Sihtric x F!Reader

Warning: Dirty Talk but otherwise nothing really

Summary: Trapped in a village, the lord doesn't want to let Uhtred and his men go, but strange customs reign in this village. You just wanted a drink.

"I wonder when we can leave," Sihtric asked bored, glaring at some of the lord's soldiers. You laughed, "Then when the lord is done flirting with Uhtred"

Finan laughed, and you hear Osferth, who was walking behind you, chuckle slightly. "I think it will take a while," he said softly. "Yes, I don't know much about it, but cock comparisons usually take time, always for you men"

Finan laughed again "Didn't know you knew that much about it" You looked at your bearded friend and sighed briefly "And I wonder why not just pull down your pants and say mine is thicker and longer, here look"

Now everyone was laughing because a soldier walked past you and looked at you questioningly until his face changed, and he crossed himself.

You stopped and saw the man and spread your hands, "Is that so, or aren't your women allowed to talk about cocks?"

The man shook his head in disgust and walked on, noticing Osferth's body behind you as he spoke over your shoulder, "I don't think a woman is allowed to say anything here at all"

You spit because you didn't know why this village was so far stuck in time. Women had to keep a low profile, men had something to say here. But since you were one of Uhtred's entourage they let you get away with a lot, only once you were hit on by a man who said he would show you where your place is, but he didn't get any further because the boys were guarding you and looked menacing. Since then, you have not been dissuaded from speaking as you saw fit.

"I don't know you that well," Sihtric said now, nudging you and Osferth because you wanted to get drunk. You raised your eyebrows, "How?" you asked, amazed. "So, vulgar, you don't usually talk like that"

"Are those men thinking that women aren't allowed to say that and besides, that's nothing compared to what I could say" - "So?" Finan asked, "How could you talk?"

You clear your throat and shake your head and look at Osferth "If I do that, our baby Monk here will turn pink, and I don't intend to." Finan grinned widely as he saw Osferth look down.

"That's not true," he tried to resist, Sihtric grabbed his shoulders, "Of course not. What happened to that whore the other day?" Sihtric asked him and before Osferth could defend himself again, you asked, puzzled, "There are whores here?" all men shook their heads "I would be surprised"

All four of you, stopped in front of the tavern when you saw the soldiers standing in front of the entrance. "Are they just standing there?" You ask quietly towards Finan and Sihtric, both of whom have narrowed their eyes and are now shaking their heads.

You sigh again, never have you had to sigh so much over a village. "What are they guarding?" - "The ale" came from Osferth "whores?" Finan asked, "Maybe they have something special in there?" Sihtric wondered. You just roll your eyes, none of the guys could help you.

You decide to go up the wooden stairs, and you were escorted by the boys, but as you tried to go in, a guard grabbed your arm. "No women," he just said and pushed you towards the stairs, thanks to Osferth holding you, you don't fly them down.

You pressed your lips together, so you didn't say something nasty, and tried to get between them into the tavern again. Again the man held you tight but didn't let go.

With your free hand you grab your dagger and hold it to his privates, "I'm not a woman" you said and saw the man flinch. You are a warrior, you wanted to say, but somehow the words got stuck in your throat.

The other guard went to help, but Sihtric was faster, standing in front of him, stopping him from hurting you. Finan helped him and Osferth, yes, he tried to stop you, so you wouldn't hurt him.

"She... I mean he looks like a woman but believe me he's not." Osferth cleared his throat when you gave him a disapproving look. "God didn't mean it well with him," he said again and nodded to the man.

Who then nodded slightly, looked at the dagger on his privates and probably thought it would be better to let you go. "I... I have a dick, probably bigger than yours" you said.

The man nodded at your words, and you sheathed the dagger as you walked in with the boys, but suddenly everything went quiet.

The woman serving looked like she had seen a ghost, and the men were hurt in their pride. Again you spread your hands and grab your crotch and scream for everyone to hear

"I have a cock," the men behind you tried not to laugh as you went to the bar, annoyed, the woman grinned slightly.

You nod to the woman as Sihtric put his arm around you. "Now that's what I call a show," he said, kissing your cheek. "Stop it, the men might think you're gay" he giggled and looked around.

Some men probably left the tavern because they didn't want to let a woman ruin their evening. "You know, if my husband looks like you, then I like being gay"

You started smirking when Finan started arguing with the woman, no one heard the flirtation between you and Sihtric, even though some of them knew what was going on between you both.

"I want two jugs," Finan was saying, banging his fist on the table. You put a hand on his and smile sweetly at the woman. Her face changed when she looked from Finan to you, and now she smiled.

"We'd like ale" - "Finally there's a real man here," she responded to your sentence, and you briefly wonder if she meant Sihtric. Osferth didn't speak, he simply folded his arms in front of his chest and watched the spectacle.

"You're cute, and I wonder how it really looks between your legs." Sihtric couldn't hold back his laughter, Finan and Osferth were shocked and had their mouths open.

"I have a huge cock" she ran her hand through her hair and grinned, "And how big is it?" You raised your forearm and had formed a fist, just missing Sithric's face.

"As big as a forearm" you nodded to your raised arm. The men at your side had become quiet. Because the woman was blushing and making beautiful eyes at you.

"Well, if that's the case, then there's finally a real man here." She turned around, and you looked at all three men questioningly, but they just shrugged their shoulders.

She put a whole jug in front of you and a mug, "This is for you, so that I may see your mighty cock" slowly you started to nod "Of course, soon"

Finan wanted to grab the jug, but she slapped his hand, "It's only for real men, and you pay like the other dogs here."

You laughed "Thank you my thoroughbred wife" at that she blushed and then started to smile sheepishly. You turn around and want to go to a table.

But again you looked at the woman, "Tell me, dear woman, may I let him drink from my jug here?" She looked at Osferth urgently. "He's still a virgin," you said a little lower, and she started laughing.

She grabbed a mug and put it on the counter. "The poor man" was all she said, and you saw how Osferth rolled his eyes and took the mug and went with you.

"What about us?" Finan asked and then looked at Sihtric. "You pay like all the other dogs," you said, laughing, and sat down with Osferth at a table that had room for four.

"If you weren't so sweet, I would be angry now" he said when you poured the mug for him. "If you weren't you, Baby Monk, where would we be?" you ask, grinning widely as he ponders your words.

The men came to you both annoyed, Sihtric sat in front of you and Finan in front of Osferth. "As big as a forearm? I'd like to see" Finan said and grinned at you while taking a sip of his ale.

"Nah, if you look, he pulls back," you said and all four of you started laughing out loud, which disturbed the other men in the tavern and made them grumble slightly.

But you didn't bother, you sat together for a long time. When you were deep in conversation, the woman at the tavern gave you a small bowl with dried meat and winked at you.

"The way I love it, you busty miracle" you spoke and made her smile with your words. She looked briefly into your empty jug and took it with her.

"Maybe I should learn from you," Finan said, a little tipsy, the ale here wasn't diluted, and it was very strong, so strong that you were all a little drunk.

Too strong for Osferth, he lay with his head on his arms, which he had placed on the table, and dozed off slightly.

"I'm the real man here, maybe I could teach you a few things" you said jokingly when Sihtric cleared his throat. "Don't say that, I wouldn't resist the temptation" he said and blushed slightly, but maybe it was just the glow of the candle, that stood on the table.

The woman came back, a full jug in hand, she put it down on the table "Don't tell anyone you can drink for free here" she smiled as you, you nodded.

Then she came closer to you and whispered something in your ear, startled you looked at Sihtric who raised his eyebrows. She left, and before she went to the storeroom, she looked back at you one more time and gave you that look.

That face that said so much that she was waiting for you and she was ready for whatever was to come.

You grab Osferth by the shoulders "Time to go" you said to everyone and rudely rouses Osferth from his sleep, you grab your mug and jug and left, surprised the boys did the same.

"So why are we drinking outside now?" Finan asked you when you had gone into the barn with them, and you were now drinking your ale together on the hay.

Osferth snuggled up to you and slept peacefully on. "Because that certain lady wanted me to follow her" Finan started to laugh and then became serious.

"Don't say she wanted to see your forearm length cock?" he said, puzzled. You shake your head and blush slightly. "No"

"What then?" asked your Irish friend. You share your free ale with them as you gulp, "She wanted to see my dominance, how I treat women, and she wanted...she wanted..."

"Make you happy?" Sihtric asked and just raised an eyebrow, slowly you nod. "Uff, who doesn't want that?" he said and quickly emptied his mug, you were so speechless at his words that you only took a sip yourself.

You hope not to see the woman again while you are locked up here. You listened to Finan and Sithric joking about it. But for the first time since you were here, you were speechless.

[icarusignite]

Valhalla Bound

Finan x gender neutral reader

Summary: During the ransacking of Rumcofa, you save Osferth thus exchanging his fate for yours. aka you die and Finan’s reaction to that lol.

A/N: this is my very first attempt at an xreader so apologies if I got the tense or anything wrong. Leave your thoughts in the comments <3

Dedication: for @finanhasmyheart​ , sorry for the angst 💀

There was blood. There was so much blood. You clutched your stomach as a groan escaped your lips. Osferth was immediately at your side, his eyes clouded with guilt as you had just taken the blade meant for him. The men who had stormed Rumcofa fled and the screams of the broken souls they left behind permeated the air. There was an echo of a shout, your name. You couldn't really hear much though, everything was a faint buzz to your ears. You slumped to your knees, and someone grabbed ahold of your forearms to gently lower you to the ground.

"You're all right! You're all right!" someone was saying frantically.

Everything hurt and distraught hands scrabbled at your leather tunic trying to find the site of the wound.

"Help!" someone hollered again.

You lifted your head blearily. It was Finan. Sweet Finan with his eyes full of tears. He was saying something, screaming something but you couldn't quite understand. He cradled your head in his lap, one hand supporting your neck and the other wrapped around your shoulders.

"It's all right, you're going to be all right!" he muttered, his fingers carding through your hair repeatedly.

"Shh. You're too loud," you winced.

He looked at you in disbelief, his eyes wide. Osferth was there too, frantically trying to stem the blood flowing from your abdomen. He couldn't see the wound. There was simply too much blood. Finan only stared though, he could not pull away his gaze from yours. He pressed his forehead against yours, holding you close, and felt as your skin started to lose its warmth.

"No no no, you can't die on me. Please you can't die."

Blood trickled from the corner of your mouth as it lifted in a half smile, "I'm sorry Finan."

Finan's eyes filled again, "Why would you do that? Why did you put yourself in harm's way like that?"

"...Had to...had to save the baby monk."

Osferth stifled a sob at your words and Finan's hands clenched around yours.

"You have to stay then. So that you can keep protecting him. You have to stay because he will need you again. I will need you. Please."

"It is as the gods will it Finan. There is not much I can do to contest their will."

"No, please no. Please don't go," Finan shook his head, a look of self-loathing settling over his face. "I should never have left you alone. I should never have left your side. I'm sorry."

You reached up to brush the tears away from his face tenderly, "None of that now. You have to promise me that you won't blame yourself. Or Osferth. It is no one's fault. It is simply destiny."

"To hell with destiny, to hell with the gods, I just need you to stay... please," he was begging now.

A violent bloody cough burst out of you before you could speak again, "Careful now, blasphemy won't help me where I'm going now."

Osferth found your sword lying a few yards away in the muddy ground and he brought it to you, helping you to wrap your stiffening fingers around its hilt. Finan simply rocked you in his arms, his sobs echoing in the wind.

"No no no, please. Please don't leave me. I will never get to see you again. I can't bear the thought of never seeing you again."

"You will see me after. Although I do not hope to see you on the other side anytime soon," you chuckled weakly, trying to stay humorous.

It was ironic really, you had always been the more serious one in Uhtred's group. The fearsome Dane with the no-nonsense attitude. It was Finan who always found a way to lighten the mood and make everyone laugh, who saw the bright side of every situation and yet now all he could see was darkness. A darkness that threatened to pull him under and smother him. He cupped his blood-stained hands around your face and kissed your forehead, his tears mingling with yours.

"No. I really will never see you again. You will go to Valhalla and I will never see you again!"

A wheeze rattled through your chest and you clutched his arm tighter. It was getting cold, so very cold.

"You think...you think your God will let me drop by and say hi. You know...when you're in heaven, a long time from now," your voice was barely above a whisper now.

"Don't say that. Don't you dare say things like that..."

"I really am sorry though. I'm sorry, I truly did want to spend the rest of my life with you. I just...thought we'd have more time."

You took his hand and brought it to your lips, breathing your last against his skin. When you finally went still in his arms his shoulders slumped, like the life had bled out of him instead of you. His chest heaved in shallow uneven breaths as he reached out to close your eyes for the very last time. Eyes that would never light up at the sight of him, that would never flutter when he kissed you, that would never convey their love to him again. Eyes that would never soften with kindness when you helped Osferth improve his sword skill or twinkle with mischief when you joined Sihtric in the occasional prank. Your eyes would remain cold and dead just like the rest of you, devoid of any warmth just like his life. Finan held you close for quite some time. He could hear the movement around him, those who were still alive gathering the bodies of those who were not. He felt a gentle hand on his shoulder prompting him to look up.

"It is time...," Osferth mumbled.

Finan nodded, taking a moment to collect himself before gathering you up in his arms and standing. The other Danes had been laid out in a neat row but he could not bear the thought of putting you down, for doing so would give your death the air of finality he so desperately did not want to. Father Benedict started to recite the funeral rites and Uhtred's son informed him that the Danes had their own rituals. It was this that finally snapped Finan out of his internal turmoil. It would be selfish of him to deprive you of that, you deserved to be at peace. He pressed a farewell kiss to your forehead and lay you down on the cold unforgiving ground, a whimper bursting from his chest as he did so.

"I'm sorry...it's my fault," his voice cracked with grief.

He stumbled away only to collapse down a few paces away, pulling his knees to his chest as soft sobs racked his body once again.

"That should have been me lying there instead..." Osferth settled down next to him. "It is my fault. If I had been stronger, if I had been faster. If I had only been more capable of protecting myself and others this wouldn't have happened."

Finn gave him a sidelong glance, "This is not your fault baby monk. It is mine."

Osferth let out a bitter laugh that bled into a lament, "We can exchange blame all we like. The fact of the matter remains that it should have been me."

Finan watched the pyre that carried your body being set aflame and as the tendrils of smoke reached out and caressed the sky, he wondered if God would indeed be kind enough to let you two meet someday. Maybe He might. It was that hope, that maybe, that would keep him going until he saw you again.

[breezii2176]

Can I request an imagine where the reader is uhtreds daughter and has liked finan for a while but ends up marrying finan out of a marriage of convenience???

Finan x Uhtreds Daughter!Reader

Reader, for the sake of this one-shot, is going to be Stiorra’s twin. The girls are about 22/23 in this.

The storyline has been changed for the sake of this fic.

I really went off track and tweaked the request a bit since I couldn’t think of a reason for Uhtred to marry his daughter to Finan for convenience.

~And thank you for the request anon~

2200+ words

18+ content

“What do you see in him?” Stiorra asked, gods is she relentless.

“Shut up would you? He’s right there, and what if father hears you?” Y/n whispered as she pointed just in front of them to where Finan was, dismounting his horse as all of the group were stopping for the night.

“He likes you too, just wait a sec and he’ll be helping you off your horse.” Stiorra was certainly right about the last part as Finan and their father, Uhtred, came towards them, the former helping y/n down even the she is completely capable.

“Down you go little lady.” He spoke softly, his hands holding onto her waist a little longer than necessary, his fingers digging in slightly before releasing her completely.

“Thank you.” She smiled, letting him take the horses reigns to tie them up. Finan smiled back, nodding his head a little which had the butterflies return to her stomach.

“Both of you help set up for the night, it’s going to be a cold one.” Father spoke, slightly pushing Stiorra and y/n.

Stiorra only groaned as y/n rolled her eyes, slowly they started to help set up the little camp, Sihtric already getting a fire started.

The sun had began to set quite quickly, everyone had sat around the fire as Osferth had started to hand out food. Y/n was sat next to her sister and, thankfully, Finan. She have liked the Irishman since her family had been reunited in Mercia.

As always her fathers company had passed the time by drinking and retelling stories, the time had passed by quickly and the temperature dropping with it.

“Ya seem cold.” Finan leaned in, whispering the words. She only nodded in response before he wrapped his arm around her, bringing her body in close and getting her under his cloak with him.

“I think it is time for bed for you y/n.” Uhtred spoke as he motioned for Finan to let go of her.

“I’ll tuck her in Uhtred.” Finan replied, standing before picking her up, carrying her to the makeshift tent and laying her down under some furs.

A few seconds later she was accompanied by her twin, both getting closer to each other to stay warm as Finan went back to the fire.

“Is it true?” Uhtred questions Finan as he sits back down. The confusion clear as day on the Irishman’s face, Sihtric was just barely muffling his laughter as Osferth looked guilty.

“Is what true Lord?”

“That you love my daughter?” Uhtred seemed way too calm as he leant forward, his elbows resting on his knees with his hands clasped.

Sihtric was doubled over trying to contain his laughter as Osferth started to stutter out apologies and Finan sat still, tensed up as he stared back at Uhtred before glaring at the young monk.

“So it is true,” Uhtred mumbled before continuing, “I need you and y/n to enter the town and pretend to be married.”

“What? Why Uhtred?” Finan was still tense as he studied his friend, trying to figure out the situation at hand.

“It is simple, I need you both to spy and find out what you can about these people, you already know why.”

Finan nodded with a tight lipped smile, hoping to drop the conversation for now. This was going to be a strange and yet enticing mission.

~~~~~

“I’m sorry ya got stuck havin’ to do this mission with me.” Finan spoke as he and y/n walked into the village, her hand wrapped around his arm as they walk passed everyone.

“Don’t apologise, just make it all seem believable.” The young woman spoke, anyone could see she was nervous about this ordeal.

“I think that’s the ale house,” Finan pointed slightly ahead of them, making their way towards it to try and get a room.

They walked in and looked around, Finan could tell this place wasn’t the most secure, y/n’s grip tightened as she no doubt noticed as well. The patrons inside staring at the woman clinging to her ‘lover’.

“Don’t leave my side.” Finan leant down to whisper in her ear, moving his arm to wrap around her waist and hold her more securely.

She nodded and let Finan lead her, the unsavoury crowd still staring openly, some even licking their lips at her. Before she realised it, Finan had gotten a room for them, leading her up to it so as to relax a little in peace.

“There’s only one bed,” y/n points out, already moving to place her pack down and get comfortable.

“Aye, married remember.” Finan joked, pointing to the rings they were both wearing to sell the idea.

Y/n smiled and she shook her head when he wiggled his brows, stepping closer to her before becoming serious once again.

“We need to get as much information possible and for that we need to split up. But I need to know that you’ll not wonder too far from me side.” Finan couldn’t help but be protective of her.

“I’ll be cautious.” She smiled, loving his protective side, watching as he reached into his things and pulling out a small knife and handing it to her.

Y/n took it gently and hid it under her own cloak, knowing he wouldn’t stop worrying until she did.

“Let’s rest for the day and tomorrow we’ll start, we both need proper sleep for what’s to come.”

“Dunno how much sleep I’ll get in a place like this.” Finan spoke as he barred the door.

They rid themselves of their cloaks and armour, slipping under the furs a respectful distance apart as they slowly fell asleep. By the morning Finan was up first, a slight weight on his chest.

As he looked down he saw h/c hair splayed out and soft breaths were coming from her. His arm had wrapped around her shoulders and her own lay draped across his abdomen.

Finan smiled, not wanting this moment to end but also needing to get up and eat. Sighing he gently shook her awake, watching as she sat up against him and yawned, seeing the confusion in her eyes when she realised she had slept on him.

“I’m so sor-“ she began but was cut off by Finan’s deep laughter, making her pout at him before getting up and ready as he still lay on the bed.

~~~~~

A week had passed quickly, both of them getting into a nice routine and learning much about the village and everyone occupying it. They would both return to Uhtred soon with all the information they have, although neither wanted the mission to end.

“It’s nice to have you fall asleep in my arms.” Finan whispered from behind her, both laying down once again, his arm held her close to his chest as she held his hand.

“It is,” y/n wanted to add more, wanting to confess this is all she wished for but decided against it. Finan pulled her even closer, he could feel her tense against him before relaxing once again.

“I never want to let you go.” He whispered, closing his eyes readying himself for any type of rejection.

Instead y/n twisted in his embrace, staring at his face to see if he was speaking the truth. She reached up to cup his face, watching as it flinched from the unexpected contact and how his eyes remained shut.

“I want that too.” She whispered, leaning up and leaving a ghost of a kiss against his lips, pulling back only to see him staring at her in shock.

Without thinking Finan pinned her to the bed, cupping her face with one hand whilst his other kept him propped up so as to not crush her.

“Ya call that a kiss?”

They both laughed before he leaned down slowly, gouging her reaction as his eyes shifted from her own eyes to her lips. Seeing no resistance he pressed his lips to hers, the softness of her lips making him groan.

She tangled her fingers in his hair, pulling him closer and opening her mouth slightly yo deepen the kiss. His tongue easily slipping in exploring her mouth and savouring her taste.

“Shit,” he mumbled as they pulled apart, his pants tightening and he was sure she could feel it too as she giggled, “we need to stop now or I won’t be able to hold back.”

She let Finan roll off of her, thinking for a moment before straddling his waist quickly. His confused expression made her giggle once more as she leaned forward.

“I don’t want you to stop.” She pulled him back into a kiss, their hands working on removing the others clothing.

~~~~~

“-so that’s everything we know.” Finan finished explaining for the both of them.

“Thank you Finan.” Uhtred pat the Irishman on the shoulder before walking off leaving the pair.

“I want to marry you when we get back home.” Finan turned to y/n as he spoke, taking off his cross necklace and handing it to her.

“It’s a good thing I want you to be my Irishman too I guess.” Y/n spoke in a teasing tone, putting the necklace on immediately.

They stood staring at each other a while longer before someone cleared their throat, snapping them out of their trance.

“What is this?” Uhtred pointed between them.

“Lord I-”

“I’m going to marry him.” Y/n spoke confidently, not caring for whatever her father had to say back, and kissed Finan on the cheek. She then walked off, leaving the men to talk some more.

“I’m happy for you, but don’t you dare hurt her or I’ll kill you myself.”

“I wouldn’t dream of it.”

~~~~~

Finan and y/n stumbled into their house, both having been celebrating with everyone about their marriage that day. As soon as the door closed Finan pinned her against it, his hands pulling at the lacing of her dress.

Their lips moulding together, tongues and teeth clashing as the messily kissed, her hands pulling at the laces of his breeches.

They pulled apart panting as her dress puddled around her feet, showing her bare body to him once again. Finan wasted no time in helping discard his own clothing as well before leaning back into her to nip, lick and suck at her breasts.

Y/n threw her hand back against the door, pulling at Finan’s hair whilst she moans his name, him groaning in return to her tugging.

“Don’t tease, just hump me.” She spoke through her moans.

Finan chuckled, hooking his hands under her thighs and hoisting her up, her legs wrapped around his waist as he rubs his thick cock along her slick folds.

Finan watched her face contort with pleasure as he slowly pushed himself inside her, grunting as she clamped down on him.

“Look at you,” he spoke, slowly pulling out until the tip remained only to slam back in, “such a beautiful woman, my beautiful wife.”

He accentuated the word ‘my’ with an incredibly powerful thrust. Y/n’s body felt as if it were alight, flames dancing along her skin wherever he touched or kissed.

His lips leaving marks along her neck and chest as his fingertips dug into her hips surely leaving more marks in their wake.

His name left her like a prayer, her nails digging into his shoulders as she held him close, her heels digging into him to bring him impossibly closer. The knot forming in her lower abdomen started to tighten, her orgasm approaching quickly and her cunt began to hug his cock tighter.

Finan knew she was close, grinning to himself he reached a hand between their bodies to start rubbing her clit, wanting her to cum around him and in return he’d cum inside her.

“Cum for me love.” His accented words helped her reach her peak, clenching around Finan as she screamed his name and let the knot finally burst in her stomach.

“Fuck,” Finan cursed as he still, her name falling from his lips as he came undone as well.

They stayed still for a moment longer, panting as they gazed into each others eyes. Eventually Finan released his grip on her and pulled out to place y/n on her feet, holding her steady when she wobbled slightly.

“Are ya ok love?” Finan had concern written over his face when she looked back at him.

“As long as that isn’t all the humping we’re doing tonight.” She replied, innocently smiling at her husband.

He laughed with her before throwing her over his shoulder, smacking her ass playfully and throwing her on the bed. He crawled over and and pecked her lips.

“I plan to go as many rounds as you’ll let me.” He smiled once again, his cock already hard again as she looked down at it.

“Good,” She flipped them, straddling his lap and sinking onto him once more, “I don’t want you to stop.”

[agreyraincloudd]

Hii, for the TLK prompts could I please have 11 and 8 with Sihtric please

thank you for the requestttt enjoy!

Sihtric x Reader

Prompt 11. "I won't let anything bad happen to you"

You and Sihtric were…indifferent to each other. 

You found him obnoxious and cocky and he had on many occasions told you just how much you annoy him with your facts and critiques. And yet you made a perfect team. Much to both your dismay. So when Uhtred suggested you and Sihtric sneak into Eoferwic first following the siege of Brida, you tried not to sign too loud. Sigtryggr explained the underground tunnels leaning deep into the city and as you and Sihtric stood shoulder to shoulder you held the Pagan charm around your neck - praying for safety as the number of men you’d have to avoid were recounted. 

Night had fallen when you finally made your way over to the tunnel entrance to the city. 

“Is this a sewage way?” You were already standing knee deep in the water as you looked up at Uhtred and Sigtryggr. The latter nodded as the former laughed. 

“It is” 

You said your farewells to the men as you turned and shoved Sihtric through first. He stumbled slightly before shooting you a glare over his shoulder, the two of you stepping into the dark. 

“What’s the plan then pretty boy?” His second evil glare of the day made you smile. 

“Get in, locate Stiorra, make an accurate account of Brida’s men and get out”

“Unseen, unheard”

“Exactly”

The water had risen to your hips and a drop in the unlevel ground had you trip over yourself, falling against Sihtric. He grunted as you landed against him and sloshed the murky water up his back. His arms had caught himself against both sides of the small tunnel when you fell, stopping you until you readjusted your footing. 

“Are you done?” His voice was snappy and mean. 

He was more tense than usual. 

“What’s wrong with you today? You usually thrive in these circumstances”

“I’m walking through shit water with only you for company. This isn’t exactly how I thought I’d be spending my night” 

“Sihtric Kjartansson” He turned fully to face you, the water just above your waist. “Are you scared?”

He looked at you deadpan, holding his ax close to his chest before he turned back and continued on. 

“Aw little dane do not fret”

“Y/N” He warned. 

He whipped around and took a step toward you when a voice sounded overhead. Somewhere along the way you had entered the city walls and were standing under a drain, a man yelling commands at someone from above. You shoved Sihtric against the wall with your hand over his mouth, hoping the ripple of the water wasn’t too loud as you moved. With one hand covering his lips, you pointed up as his brows furrowed in confusion, his hand enveloping your wrist and head nodding in understanding when he realized what you pointed at. 

"I won't let anything bad happen to you"

When the man above the drain seemed to move on, Sihtric leaned into your neck, whispering by your ear. 

“Stop goading me” He pushed your hand back down to your side as he carried on walking. You decided to pin the way your body tingled to the frozen water around you. 

Following your silence you finally made it to the drain grate you needed. Working with Sihtric, while your attitudes towards each other made small talk difficult, came easy to you. In silent motions, you fell into action with him. His hands held your waist as he lifted you toward the opening above you. You were used to the way he made you feel by now but it never made the way his touch sends waves through you any less obvious. You’d been at war with yourself for months before a drunken conversation with poor Osferth had you confessing your attraction toward the dane man - you only hoped the planned ignorance to said feelings would be enough to stop them from turning into something more than physical. 

With a huff of struggle you managed to lift the grate and pull yourself up, scanning the small alleyway before turning and offering your hand down to him as he did the same. 

You knew the routine of spying by now, you left each other swiftly and parted to find your way to higher ground while he found Sigtrigga’s people and wife. You were by no means the vision of a soft saxon woman but didn’t look dane enough to stand beside Brida’s men unnoticed so you crept around with your bow drawn. 

Under the cover of night, you managed to slip through the streets and crawl upon a tall house to look down on the crowd in the centre. There Brida stood, savage and blood thirsty as she tortured Christan men and called out for Stiorra. You counted how many danes walked in and out of sight and noted the barricades they’d crafted around the main gate. You went to move on when a hand grasped your ankle and dragged you down. You gasped when the familiar eyes of Sihtric found yours. He pulled you down in one great yank from the thatched roof, his body over yours as he shushed you. Silently, he rolled off and pointed toward where two men were making their way around the edge of the city, their eyeline directly falling where you had previously sat should they look that way. A nod from yourself thanked the man and you went to signal when something caught your eye. From across the rooftops, the slight disturbance of movement from a drain behind Brida’s execution ring made you freeze. 

Stirorra. 

You pointed her out to Sihtric who looked equally as relieved to see her alive, albeit hiding in the tunnels. 

“Come on” You slid off the rooftop with Sihtric just behind you. He was close and you presumed he’d follow until he pulled you back and into a shadow. 

“You can’t just walk over there”

“I can-” You pulled your arm out of his grasp. “-and I will”

“Don’t be foolish, we have no idea how to get to her” He had to lower his voice as he got a little heated. The presence of both of you so deep behind enemy walls putting the two of you on edge.

“We’re scouts. We will find a way”

“Y/N” 

He went to argue again when you turned back to him, closer this time, more riled up.

“She is Uhtred’s daughter and my friend. I will not leave here knowing she’s trapped”

He took a step toward you, one too big not to make your breath stop as he was inches from you. You were both breathing heavily as he calculated his words. 

“I will not risk your safety for others”

“It’s what we do”

You barely felt the brief touch of his fingers against yours. A hesitation on his part as he tried to contain himself. 

“I would allow it for anyone else but you”

“Do not make this about me”

Somewhere along on the way you’d gotten closer to each other, the darkness offering a blanket of testing as you pushed further than you’d usually allow - his breath against your cheek as he begged. 

“It’s not that easy to stop thinking about you when you’re right here” 

“Sihtric”

“We need to go. We can tell Uhtred what we saw and at first light they’ll come for her. We know she’s safe” 

“I would do the same if it was you down there and you’d do it for me”

He stopped. 

“Wouldn’t you?”

He hesitated before agreeing. 

You carried on pleaing “If we figure out how to get down to her-”

“We can’t take everyone alone and more than two of us will be a challenge to the gods to get caught” He whispered. You went to respond when his hand cupped your cheek suddenly as he lent his forehead on yours. 

“Stop fighting me on this”

You did - allowing yourself to savor the moment. 

“Okay”

You pulled away from each other. Your blood ran thicker as the adrenaline had you on edge while you made your way back to the tunnels - Sihtric close behind. 

The cold water was a somewhat welcome shock as you lowered yourself in.

“We’ll get her back Y/N” 

He misstuck your contemplation for worry after too long letting the sound of the water flowing around you fill the silence. 

“Do you want to kiss me?”

You didn’t turn to face him as you led the way down the tunnels. 

“What?” Your question threw him off. 

“If I asked you to, would you?” 

He pushed past you and stopped you in your path, eyes worried as he looked you over. 

“Why are you asking?”

“You know why?”

He wet his lips with his tongue. 

“Would you like me to?”

“But you don’t like me” It was almost a question. 

You saw him swallow.

“We need to keep moving” You tried to pass him but he moved into your way. 

“Who told you that?”

“What? That you don’t like me?”

He laughed. This whole situation was laughable - waist deep in water under a captive city with the one man who made you feel so…bothered. 

“You hardly made offerings of friendship to me Y/N”

“You have teased me since the first day we met” 

You urged him to keep walking, talking to each other as you stared at his back. 

“You threatened to punch me”

“Only because of how rude you were”

He looked back at you. 

“I’m a dane”

You shoved him forward but he pulled you with him. 

“I will kiss you if it is what you want?” 

“Do you?” 

“Are you asking me if I want you?”

“Yes” You were frustrated and tired and didn’t understand the feeling of his lips on yours until he had pulled back. 

“What was that?” You almost shouted. 

“You wanted me to kiss you?”

“I asked if you would want to?”

“And I did”

“Why?” 

You had been playing this game with him for so long - the back and forth, the stares and the looks. It finally made you snap as the sudden burst of want wracked you. 

“Because I am in love with you” His smile faded. “Because I love you”

“Why do you act the way you do around me then?”

“Because you do. You act cold and mean and I only give you it back”

“I act that way because I don’t know how else to deal with how you make me feel” You were both quiet until you pushed on his chest. “Don’t smile like that” 

“How do I make you feel huh?” He was teasing. Even in the dim light you could see it. That smirk. 

“You piss me off”

He took a step toward you.

“Oh I do, do I?”

“Yes you do” You felt like stomping your foot had you not been standing in such deep water. 

“And is this you finally admitting you have feelings for me”

“If I admit such things can we get out of here”

“When we do, will you let me kiss you again?” 

You hesitated before pushing him with a smile toward the exit, mumbling a yes. 

You tried not to act so differently around him when you surfaced at the other end. But among all the telling, informing Uhtred about the number of men, of Stiorra, you noted the way Sigtryggr smiled to himself when he caught Sihtrics fingers brushing yours.

[ms-oswald]

homesick | chapter one

author's note: and here we go with a new Finan series! A tad long, but hopefully still an enjoyable read :) a BIG thank you to @persephones-journey for helping me through this! ❤️ banner credit to @arcielee 💜 Lots of love & stay safe 💕

     “I will be forever the man who killed the great warrior Uhtred.” 

That was how their story started.  

The ground quivered underneath heavy hooves, horses running on adrenaline as their riders intercepted the illicit briberies by the shore, the beach’s cold waves straddling the sand within its grasp. 

Restlessness tightened the throats of the warriors, its claws urging movements of rescue. 

The slavers scattered away, fear shadowing their hastened steps with the hefty trample of the cavalry and unsheathed swords harmonizing behind their backs. 

The captives were nonmoving, confused as they watched the violent spectacle unfold in front of them. A mix of screams and the whistling of weapons ripping through flesh ached their ears, the gasps of breath and strangled voices caused shivers as they watched bodies falling over their pushed-in blades. 

She climbed off her horse as Ragnar called for his brother, his feet following the path towards the sunken man.  

She stayed behind, standing by Steapa’s side – a man of Alfred’s – and watched as she saw her friend cradling his younger kin softly sobbing in his arms.  

“Did you believe we would abandon you?” A soft smile etched across his lips, his shoulders heavy at the sight. He was partly relieved to have found his brother while the other was distraught at how he came to be. 

No response came from Uhtred, the air filled still with soft strained cries.  

Ragnar lifted his head to meet another slave standing a couple of feet away and glanced down the line to his right, taking in the presence of the others. 

“Free them all.” He ordered, somber, his mind racing and angry.  

She followed his command and marched forward, going for the chains before breaking them at each of the captives’ ankles. She set them free one by one until she reached the last; by then he had undone it himself, and quietly picked up the sword that laid at his feet.  

She stilled and let him be, curiosity prickling her skin as her eyes shadowed his movements.  

He stumbled hastily towards the remaining villain trying to escape for his life, his venture destroyed.  

She watched as the poorer man pointed the tip of his blade at his slaver, the cause of his infernal calamity.  

Sverri turned slowly, now face to face with his demise.  

The sudden shove of the blade through the throat startled her; she froze, unable to look away as death violently greeted the enemy, the body falling on the ground. 

His eyes glistened as relief washed over the liberated, the soft panting bruising his chest while he turned to his right, meeting Uhtred’s gaze.  

No words were exchanged, only a delirious grin stretched across the other man’s dirty cheeks, a long gaze holding them together.  

She sighed and turned her head as Ragnar called for her. “Care for him.” She sent a firm nod his way and placed her sword back in its scabbard before shifting the other way and carefully approaching the newly freed man. 

He hadn’t noticed her, still trapped in a thick fog, a void that seemed unescapable. 

It was the sudden crackle of a fallen branch that awoke him, startling him. He focused his sight on the figure walking towards him and quickly lifted the sword at her. 

She stopped, her hands in mid-air as her sign of surrender.  

“I am not here to hurt you, I promise.” Her tone was soft, almost coaxing him to let go of his defense. 

He stared back, dazed, and fell to the ground with a quiet breath out. 

She drew near him and took a seat on her knees as her hands rested on his jawline, carefully tilting his head to see if he had any other bruises. She took note of the roughness of his skin and the older marks covering him. 

“Do you have any fresh wounds that need tending to?” She was gentle with her words as she let him go, her fingers resting on her lap. 

He shook his head, signaling a simple ‘no’. 

“What is your name?” 

The moment of silence settled between them, his eyes focusing on her with reality dragging him by the collar of his shirt. He took in the hint of worry, her gaze giving him attention that had gone missing in the recent years of his life.  

“Finan.” His name left him, a last breath across his broken lips.  

A faint twinge ran through her heart, leaving her aching. She hid it with a careful smile, introducing herself to him in return. 

“I am Kára.”  

Her name rung in his ears with his eyes taking in her features and retracing the way her darken hair was intricately braided into rows by the sides of her head and tied at the back, its texture looking soft – a sinful invitation to touch and caress the strands. To the way the tiniest of knife mark scarred the skin under the edge of her right eyebrow, a thin red line still looking fresh. He then glanced downwards, falling into steps with the harmonized colors hugging her pupils – the warmth of honey at the center, its sun bursting through the ripples of old oak trees sprinkled with flecks of moss at its roots. Such complexity in their design were cast his way, unconsciously enchanting him.  

It took him a moment, but he continued his path, glancing to the fresh bruise on the right side of her jawline to the pink of her high cheekbones, a dimple nestled comfortably from the upward curve of her full lips. 

He stared, unable to part from her – as if the delusion stripped him of his senses. An unexpected presence, he breathed her in slowly, her delicate endeavor weakening his muscles to a state of release and comfort. 

A stranger had become his rescuer, aiding in his conquest to freedom and wiping clean his bloodied hands. 

“Can you get up for me, Finan?” Once more, the symphony of his name coddled his ears. It was the cautious way she held his letters, a wounded animal – anxious and afraid. 

He did not utter a word. He simply followed her movements as she placed his arm around her shoulders, helping him rejoin the others while slowly realizing that his worst nightmare was finally over. 

     The warmth of the campfire surrounded them, the air tranquil as they took comfort in the food filling some of their bellies and the gentle sound of the crackling flames tickling their ears. 

A bowl in her hands, she quietly listened to the conversation unraveling in front of her, occasionally glancing up to follow the sound of voices. Her gaze eventually landed on Finan, the man sitting on the ground to her right, and took in the way his throat seemed to have softened, his chords clearer than earlier today; she noted as well the thickness of his accent rumbling at the back of his palette, bringing a light strain to her heart at the thought of her past. 

“You’re... Uhtred’s brother?” 

Sitting on the other side of the Irishman, Ragnar turned to him as he spoke. “I am.” 

A sly smirk across his face, his eyes glanced from one to the other as he continued. “You look nothing like each other.”  

The group shared a small chuckle, Ragnar smiling at the man’s comment; Kára hid her grin as she cast her gaze down her bowl. 

“Uhtred, you should eat.” Hild took her turn, offering him a plate. Instead, he faintly shook his head, denying the gesture. She then turned to Finan. 

He politely refused as well.  

“Oh, we will eat, lady... but our tummies are small and our feet have barely touched dry land. It’ll take a little time to find them.” He gently spoke, his reasoning prompting her to simply nod as she placed the dish on the ground. 

Ragnar picked up the conversation, his inquiry directed towards Uhtred’s apparent new friend. “Are you his brother?” 

The answer came in slowly, his thoughts ravishing his tongue with revelations.  

“We are... we are bound, I would say.” Uhtred eyed him, clear emotions striking the blue of his eyes. 

Kára observed him, noting the depth of his words as they silenced their circle.  

She remained wordless, a simple spectator as her eyes wandered with her mind traipsing amongst hundreds of thoughts.   

She hadn’t noticed he turned to look at her until he called for her by simply tilting his head her way, his voice a tad louder as it echoed in her direction. 

“What is ya story?”  

She met his gaze, the darkness of his hues glowing against the gentle flames that danced in front of them. 

She smiled at his question, the stretch of her lips dimpling her left cheek. “I do not have one. I am merely a loyal warrior of Ragnar.”  

At the mention of his name, they met and lingered as they shared the smallest and comforting of grins for one another; such an expression had gone unnoticed to the Irishman as he turned to speak to Uhtred, a cheekiness laced in his pitch. 

“Ah, so she is not one of yours then, Uhtred?” 

She snorted, rolling her eyes as she fell back into her conversation with him. She teased, her demeanor slightly exaggerated for the laughs. “Luckily, I am not.” 

She earned a chuckle from him, the rest of the group falling into the background.  

Ragnar had dropped his gaze, his laughter calming, before lifting his head back up. “Kára has been- is, one of my closest and trusted friend.” He turned to her once again, an understanding passing between them – ships in the night. 

The air settling down, she went on, taking away the chance for Finan to prod a bit more; she had preferred to keep parts of her past private – the peering gaze of a stranger throwing her off as attention was never her strong suit.  

“Him and I have known each other for a very long time. We share some... common history.” She took a sip of her ale, swallowing before ending her take. “That is all I will say, Irishman.” 

She gifted him a smirk, and swung her cup for another chug of her drink.  

He let it be, their night continuing with timid conversation flowing around the fire until it had slowly dissipated, its need for sleep growing stronger as the flames slowed. 

“I apologize.” He took a leap, standing close to her as she was reaching her tent. “I did not mean to be rude earlier.” 

She smiled reassuringly, calming his worry. “I did not see rudeness in your questions.”  

“I just wanted to get to know the woman who saved me.” She was left speechless for a moment, taken aback by his words. Her dimples carved further while nodding, his confession settled. “Hmm, another time, perhaps.”  

He caught her grin, his own pushing for a soft stretch as he watched her; perhaps such small promise had rose the sparkle in his eyes.  

“Goodnight, Finan.”  

A light tug strung within his ribcage to such a short song, her voice spelling out his name with hidden mischief; he cleared his throat, recovering from the sudden summersault. 

 A shudder of courage coursed through him, giving himself the chance to unravel a built-in moment. 

“Goodnight, Kára.” 

To the first time he said her name out loud, any reason for solemnity had crumbled at their feet. Her ears tickled, oddly enjoying the way he pronounced her syllables, the lilt across his tongue sweet and gentle. 

     They tore themselves away from the small crowd, as she had promised him, finding a secluded spot where she could clean his wounds.  

He had been hesitant at first, ashamed to bare himself in front of anyone’s eyes. 

It had been the kindness in her words that made him leaned towards agreement; he was still capable of tolerating the wear out of his dry skin and the ache on his back, hiding the desperate need for a cleanse.  

The sun sat warmly at the horizon, flickering its strokes of orange glow upon the high grass and wild flowers that surrounded them. 

Finan sat facing the sun, his back bare to her; her heart stopped and pulled back her breath, clutching at the rag in her hand, while her eyes retraced every whipped mark that bore deep across his skin – fresh and old. 

She stared silently, tears nestling the corners of her eyes.  

He held onto his shirt against his chest – or whatever was left of it – his eyes following the path of the skyline, attempting enjoyment of its warmth as it sought his presence. 

Kára swallowed a breath as she wet the piece of cloth and gently pressed it against him, starting from his shoulders. 

There was a comforting stillness between them, a voiceless exchange that remained transparent in gestures; the sting of the newer lacerations transferred to tension in his muscles – she would stop, giving him a moment to adjust to the numbness as it carved his back. 

“I brought some ointment to heal with the, hmm- with the cuts. Would it be alright if I use it on you?” She asked gently, her tone soft, sowed within the calmness of their space. He tilted his head to his right, his chin to his shoulder as he nodded wordlessly.  

She swabbed some of the thick salve against her fingertips and gently pressed them across the fresher lashes; her movements were slow, giving him the chance to adjust to the texture rubbing against his skin. 

He closed his eyes, the warmth of her palm moving alongside the bruised bones and torn muscles, a shadow cast from the path of his spine; she felt the tension vanish amongst his shoulders letting a pained smile grace the corner of her lips as she continued with her repetitive motion, dipping into the oil before brushing it against his cuts. 

He focused back into the setting sun, the touch of her hands gone. 

He turned his head and saw she had gotten up, walking around to find a seat in front of him. 

Voiceless still, he watched her as she placed the small bucket of water by her side, the rag making another appearance. 

The light’s glow was striking her adoringly, brightening the hazel of her eyes, as a soft golden glare cherished her pupils while sitting on her knees. She gifted him a passing faint smile as they met, pushing her hair behind her left ear before dipping the cloth into the water.  

She leaned towards him, a curved finger under his chin to lead his tilts, and tenderly cleaned the scabs scarring his features.  

She had been focused on caution, wanting to minimize the sting he would feel; she had not realized he had been staring, observing her with an undefined awe underlined within his hues. 

They had known each other but a few days – words were scarce, glances curious, contact but a feather. But she could still see, examine, his presence, her mind wondering about the stories that tore him down, bruised his skin, shattered his bones and burned his clothes. The pieces of his past life woven into the strands of his dirty hair, anecdotes shaping his rough beard; the depth of his irises – an acute deception painted brown, were a strain of the earth within its streams, a river crying in silence. 

It was all she could capture, stubborn cracks that remained shut, the surface threatened for rupture but never caving in. 

A soft breeze had cross through them, stiffness holding his breath. 

She stopped, pulling away. “Is something wrong?”  

He met the frown sitting across her brows, the worry shadowed behind her stare. 

He swallowed the lump in his throat, taking a breath as he shook his head and tightened his grip onto the muddied shirt stuck to his bare chest. 

“N-no.” 

Her hands fell upon her lap, the wet cloth limp as her head slightly tilted sideways. “Finan, you look pale- are you feeling ill?” 

“Just nauseous.” He struggled to say. His lungs depleted once again, his breath carrying him on. “The smell of the seas… it haunts me.” 

It had been the second faint breeze that made her realize the heaviness of his words; she glanced downwards, a saddened lip curve straining her cheek as she pushed her hair to rest behind her shoulders, regretting having undone her braids. 

She was born with the sea carved into the marrow of her bones, its waves but a welcome embrace, its air – a comfort to her lungs, her skin forever finding treasure amongst the saltiness of the waters. Her darken locks, shadows to the wind, a disciple honoring a god at its altar. 

“I-I am almost done.” 

He tried to apologize, the attempt at the tip of his tongue.  

She could only timidly smile, noticing the way his mouth had moved. 

She stopped him, pushing herself to sit straight, with nothing but softness – understanding, at the edge of her words. “But if you wish, I can ask Hild to finish-” 

He quickly interjected, guilt-ridden. 

“No, it’s alright. Please, st-stay.” 

“Are you certain? I don’t want-” 

He grabbed her wrists, purposely interrupting her, eyes locked. “Aye. Please.” 

The sliver of despair shaped the sunken figure in front of her. 

She quietly breathed in, the ache in her chest seeping into the air in her lungs. 

She then nodded, settling back as the rag swam back into the bucket, refreshed for its task. 

Quiet relief hugged him, a child in its mother’s arms as she resumed cleaning his scars, her finger hugging his chin as she brushed his skin in a tender motion. 

Cloth then gone, he silently watched her, his hues following the movements of her arms as she picked up her ointment, her fingertips covered in its texture before she leaned his way again and caressed the traces of dry skin that had comfortably settled over his brows down his cheeks.  

An unfamiliar comfort settled within him, its breath like a gush of wind, a warm breeze welcomed under a summer sun.  

He closed his eyes – a small gesture that came naturally; a way to take in the feel of her touch, to swallow such softness in repair against brute swings. 

To his parched lips, she remained delicate, the gentle tickle across them almost timid.  

“Do not eat the salve, Irishman. I know it might be tempting, but it does not have a taste suited for your stomach.” Gentle humor strung behind her words, her tone inciting light air between them. 

He exhaled a chuckle and met her gaze. He saw a speck of mischief buried in her hazels, the tiniest of spark reaching for him by name. 

Silence settled once again, her fingertips grazing over the edges of his mouth and stray strands of his beard as the thick texture coated his skin. It was a simple gesture, meant for nothing more but to progress healing yet intimacy brewed quietly – discreetly – to her every careful touch caressing him.  

Finan couldn’t help but look at her; she had taken her curious chance as well, glancing every now and then to meet him. He could not shake away the wonder of her, his irises following her features once again, mindfully retracing every inch under his eyelids. 

He needed her in memory, a calming presence to the storm drowning him. 

A steady pulse to his ragged heart. 

It had taken another moment before she broke away from his space, a satisfied sigh slipping through her.  

The salve fresh on him, her eyes quickly fell to his covered chest before looking up at him, her teeth nibbling at the inside of her cheek as she sat back on her heels. 

Shame had tied him down, the shackles ghosts on his ankles. 

She wiped her hands on her trousers and took a breath before she reached for his hand, placing it between hers, ignoring the roughness across his knuckles.  

She caught his attention, his focus placed on the way her mouth shaped her thoughts.  

“There is nothing to be ashamed about, Finan...” She was careful with her words, not wanting to agitate him. 

He listened, waiting. 

“But if you are uncomfortable, I can leave and let you finish by yourself. I can leave the bucket and cloth, and the ointment if you need to apply it to any cuts on your chest and stomach.”  

His left hand gripped tighter onto the shirt that pressed against him, keeping himself hidden away from her. Her heart broke, seeing him slightly pull away from her.  

She eventually let him go and got up, fetching the bag she had brought with her. She turned and sat back down in front of him. “I’ve also brought these if you want to change.” 

He remained mute, attentive to the way she remained on her toes, mindful – prudent. 

Conflict within him had left him speechless, unable to conjure but a simple and hoarse ‘thank you’ her way.  

She lingered, sharing a comforting smile his way before she got up to her feet and walked away.  

He had remained put, only turning his head as he watched her go.  

She was braiding her hair, gathering her locks over her shoulder for the finishing touches. 

His heart sank in slight regret, his feet dipped in its cold waters. 

     Within the next year, uncertainty – shyness, had dissipated into the air.  

Kára had remained in Winchester with Ragnar, waiting for the time to take on Dunholm and finally revenge his father’s death and save his sister. 

Finan’s discomfort slowly broke down into pieces, dust in the ground, finding ease in knowing she would stay. 

He was still growing accustomed to his freedom, searching for routines as he settled in his new home. 

The sense of normalcy wrapped around them, roots crackled through the ground, binding itself to their feet; an intricate dance, it was a quiet pursuit of affection and banter. 

It had been the way she had kept helping him with his wounds, making sure they were healing properly, re-applying her salve whenever it was needed and striking conversation on random topics, his need to solve her mystery – a desire that was burgeoning deep within him.  

She had a flicker of intrigue gnawing at him, the scent of a delicious meal teasing him consistently.  

He wanted more, ached for more of her. 

Her sense of humor was in stride with his own, their banter instinctual with every playful remark naturally bouncing off of each other - a connection that seemed to have always been present, simply awaiting dawn.  

From the timid lingering gazes they started to share, a subtlety hidden under the nights cover where the glow of fire hid their innocent secret - on the nights where men were gathering and drinking, a rowdy bunch causing playful ruckus amongst their space, or the times where settings were quiet and a longing would seep through the air, embers floating about, an ache for a touch squeezing beneath the breastbone.  

To the taunting coquetry bursting under sunlight, its heat setting them ablaze; such as when he would call her out on her flirtatious manners, fumbling the poor blacksmith's apprentice heart with a witty smile and a wink - an attitude he teased he thought was reserved for the likes of him alone. Or the times where Kára would intrude on his attempt to court a barmaid as she would serve them drinks to their table, the words of his friend suffocating under exaggeration and leaving him embarrassed with the women's light laughter.  

To the moment she swept him off his feet, her strength, his cause to stumble and fall as they initiated training, a need for refreshment into the art of combat; their swords clashed until she used her body, catching him off guard, and forced him to the ground. She had quickly followed, her knee pressed against his chest as she hovered above him, the smugness rosing her cheeks.   

He could only chuckle, impressed at the way she had smoothly defeated him. His hands in the air, signaling surrender.  

It was the abrupt physical closeness that threw her off, the adrenaline slipping away as she caught herself staring at him; he stilled, unbothered by the weight of her form while admiring the way the freckles of the green in her eyes seemed to have had a mind of their own, luring him into their dreamscape.  

It was the air in their lungs, pushing through tirelessly until recusing itself from liberation, the violent pull of its body leaving his throat dry, her own parched.  

The past circumstances were of no consequence - it had been but amicable foolery.  

It was the sparkle in his eyes, his parted lips nudging her over the edge, the impromptu need to feel him close suddenly a necessity.   

She had quickly pulled herself away as if nothing of importance transpired, both going on about their day, their weapons in hand, training still.  

It hadn’t meant she never shook away the care and fondness she had been feeling for him, but she knew there was something more and hoped to the gods it was just a reverie. 

“She’s just a friend, Uhtred.” He had repeatedly said, convinced there wouldn’t be anything less than that between them. A part of him was heartbroken, a sliver hopeful there was a possible chance there could be something else – attainable, at the reach of his fingertips.  

It had been the short voyage she had done, visiting her father for a couple of months, that tugged the specks of truth out of the dirt; it was the days spent without her that unsettled him, solitude creeping through the shadows and haunting him until it became a part of him – a habit attached to his hip. 

It was her arrival back in Winchester, her presence back into his life that tore away the desolate atmosphere, his mind slowly forgetting ever being separated from her. 

     The time had come. 

It was the middle of the night when the small army of men traveled alongside the forest path leading to the Dunholm fortress. 

The march was quiet, to each in their own mind as their feet carried the heavy weight of their armor and weapons. 

"This is where we part.” Ragnar had stopped the troops, his hand held up in the air as his gaze landed at the top of a slope. “We will show ourselves only when we know the east door has been opened.” 

Uhtred then met his gaze as he turned to him, listening still.  

“We will attack. Then it is up to you to save us... We will be lambs to slaughter.” Brother to brother, their eyes met, Ragnar almost out of breath.  

“Lord...” Their attention had shifted to Clapa, the gentle giant praying to Uhtred. “May the gods be with you.” 

Beocca quickly intervened, rectifying in his own way the other man’s well-wishes. “Um, God, may God be with him, us.”  

A small smile slipped across Kára’s face as a low chuckle escaped her; she had been standing by Hild and Brida’s side, silently watching the exchange.  

Finan heard her, his eyes shifting to her where his own cheeks intuitively burned from the silent smirk he wore for himself. 

Uhtred threw his own snicker, stepping closer to his brother, his words directed back to Clapa. “You just watch over Ragnar. Hmm?” 

The brothers then joined hands, their grins fading into sober expressions. 

“Good luck, little brother.” 

Uhtred pressed his forehead to Ragnar’s, both looking into each other's eyes, preparing for what was to come. 

“See you all in Dunholm.” 

As they bid their goodbye, Finan quickly marched to find Kára just as she turned to look at him. 

Even in the dark, he could see the hint of worry cast across her hazel gaze. Knowing she would be in the thick of the fight was heavy on his chest; he feared for her, a sentiment he hid from her.  

He silently took her hand in his, their stare never breaking. He brought their hold to his lips, pressed a reassuring kiss to her knuckles and lingered for a moment – short enough, yet had given them the split of a second they needed for encouragement, for a hopeful victory. 

He eventually broke away, letting go of her as he followed his group. She stayed and watched him go until a soft pat on her back from Clapa pushed her forward, walking in line behind Ragnar and Brida. 

The night moved on, a half-moon hanging in the sky and casting a shadow above the fortress with its light hitting the serpents that draped around their crosses. 

Ragnar and the others waited as they watched the fortress’s gate. 

“We rest. We wait.”  

At his words, his men started to relax, removing their helmets and setting down their weapons. 

Kára still faced the stronghold, her heart thrumming between her ears; Ragnar noticed as he looked around, and turned back to her. 

His hands clasping the neck of his armor, he leaned sideways and whispered in her ear. 

“Your Irishman will be fine.” 

She rolled her eyes, a low chuckle out as she glanced his way. “This is not the time, Ragnar.” She tried not to think of Finan, not wanting distraction to limit her focus on what they needed to do – a task that had become ineffective. 

“This is the perfect time.” He teased, the smirk clear across his face as he bumped his shoulder against hers. He earned himself a genuine smile, her dimple apparent on her right cheek while she shoved him back playfully before walking away. 

A breath exhaled as he watched her joining the others, his own grin slowly disappearing.  

As morning rose, they waited for their signal; a fired arrow to be launched into the sky. 

And when it showed, Kára’s heart stopped.  

“Are you ready?” Ragnar’s voice pulled her out of her trance, the lump in her throat swallowed as she turned to him, silently nodding to his inquiry. 

He lingered, catching the faint glow of the sunrise across her eyes. He was not convinced, a part of him sensing hesitation wavering within the streams of her pupils.  

“You can stay with Brida-” 

She stopped him, a hand to his chest. “I swore to be by your side, Ragnar. This means at the front as well. I won’t abandon you.” 

He sighed, giving her a curt nod as they lifted fists for a quick bump.  

“Let’s move on then.” 

She held onto her weapons and followed him as the first unit marched away from the forest towards the north entrance of the fortress. 

Adrenaline burst in her bloodstream, her body moving through the motion from the moment she held her shield by Ragnar’s side, forcing entry against the doors of Dunholm until they were inside, battling for victory as she took on some of Kjartan’s men coming her way. 

She had no time to think, her mind sent astray as her muscles pushed through, the sound of swords clashing and boisterous screams filling her ears.  

Within the horde of falling warriors – in the midst of chaos, Finan found her fighting fiercely against their opponents, her weapons gripped tightly as she swiftly pivoted and struck them down, protecting Ragnar who stood closely by as he was caught in his own battle.  

The Irishman caught in combat as well, he could only quickly glance her way with slight panic gripping at his insides.  

It was the sight of a soldier running towards her and Ragnar, spear in hand that pushed further strength to his bones.  

He was about to intervene, coming to her defense, when she turned just in time. Without second thought, she dropped her shield and grab the shaft, its metal edge escaping her by an inch away from her waist to her back. She grabbed the weapon and pulled it towards her, dragging its owner as well, until he stopped her just as quickly and nudged her his way, violently grasping her by her throat.  

She tried fighting him off, reaching for the small knife that was hiding behind her back when her assailant went down, crippled to the knees as blood seeped from his mouth. 

She pushed herself away, slipping to the ground as the body landed in front of her. She then looked up, catching her breath and saw Finan standing with his hand stretched out for her to take. 

Relief washing over her, she took his help and stood up, panting a grateful ‘thank you’ his way. He only nodded, breathing out a smile before they parted again, the battle dying down slowly with Uhtred calling for a shield wall. 

The Dunholm troops stuck to a wall, they made the square. Kára found herself standing by Finan’s side once again as Ragnar entered in a duel with Kjartan.  

Her heart stopped, anxiety crippling her to a frozen state as she watched her dearest friend face off his oldest enemy, revenge at the tip of his sword. 

She watched as he tumbled back to the ground; worry carved deep into her form, she grabbed the hilt of her sword resting in its scabbard, ready to jump and help when Finan stopped her, taking her hand in his. She looked to him with a slight frown. All she received was a tight squeeze, a silent signal of reassurance, promising her the outcome will work out in their favor.  

She held onto him, unable to let go as she watched the fight again, Ragnar’s strength overpowering Kajartan until the very end. She swallowed the lump in her throat, her gaze fixated on the way the young Dane battered the dead body, partly horrified at what she was witnessing.  

Her ears muffled at the sound of Brida’s voice, her own tears stinging the corners of her eyes without her knowledge. 

It was the sound of his scream, a guttural sound leaving the crowd dismayed, that tore at her chest, an anguish searing through her heart. 

She hadn’t realized she still had Finan next to her, hand in hand; he gave their hold another squeeze, waking her slightly as she mimicked the motion, adding pressure to his knuckles. 

And when Thyra appeared, the sunken look across her face, the growling wolves by her side – the moment she had lost herself to a scream, vulnerable and confused, Kára flinched, taken aback.  

Finan quietly pulled her closer, wrapping his arm around her as if to protect her, hiding her away from the scene unraveling in front of them, heartbroken and distressed.  

     She was unable to find slumber, her eyes fixated over the fire that burned at her feet, the crinkle of the wood pieces its only sound. 

She was lost in her thoughts, her mind drifting over and splitting her apart.   

Her shoulders felt heavy revisiting today’s events – she had never seen Ragnar fight like he had done, his rage taking over every fiber of his being, destroying everything in his path. 

Chills ran down her spine, the echo of his scream engraved into her ears – it had grown faint and distant but remained for now, a haunting image she tried to erase.  

She found solace in his revenge complete, and knew that meant as well it was time to move on; her duty fulfilled by his side, she was now given the option of either staying in Dunholm with him or leave and continue with her sea-driven life. 

She had known her answer already, the illusioned scent of the salt in the air filling her nose. 

She snapped away from her wandering, a cup of ale floating in her view. Looking up, Finan was standing in front of her with a soft smile faintly glowing from the campfire light. 

She quietly accepted his offering before he took a seat by her side, both of them taking heavy sips. 

Concern etched across his brow as he glanced her way; she had yet to speak, noticing her thoughts still holding her hostage. 

He said nothing as well, unable to voice out his worry, struck from the way she was being held upon the flames ahead of them; rogue locks of hair tickled her cheeks in the dark, her hues bursting in amber – sunset radiating across the horizon, with the corner of her lips caught between her teeth, pensive. 

He hadn’t realized she had been staring back at him, her mug empty as she placed it on the floor, her attention shifting to him. 

She moved closer to him, her knees purposely bumping into his, and laid her head on his shoulder.  

He held in his breath, taking a moment for himself; it had been disrupted at the feel of her fingertips searching for him. He wound his arm around her, his other placed on his lap, mingling with her.  

He then placed a soft peck on her forehead, his lips lingering in place before resting his cheek against her. 

She closed her eyes, taking comfort in her friend’s arms; a refuge in the dark, a treasure she had recently found. 

Her mind drifted, forcefully pushed away, unwanted. She was plagued no more, simply breathing in the scent of ember floating in the air with the faint breeze of a cool night. She nestled her nose further into his neck, the whiff of his scent easing her muscles, slowing down the thumping under her ribcage. 

His shadow engulfed her, cradling her with care – a natural pull, pieces finding each other’s edges back into place. 

She didn’t want to let it go – she needed more.  

“Finan...” He heard her voice mumbled against his throat, inaudible to the remaining men around them. 

She slowly pulled away to meet his hues, her breath, ghosts over his lips. 

The air stuck in his lungs, he watched the shimmer of the flames dance around the colors in her eyes as they held his gaze – soundless secrets traipsing from one to the other.  

Instinct called out to him, his wrist hovering above her shoulder as he delicately pushed strands of her hair behind her ear before he trailed downwards, stroking her cheek mindfully. 

She leaned into his touch, air escaping her in comfort.   

“I am in dire need of a distraction tonight.” She paused, tilting her head slightly as she reached the heel of his palm, her lips resting over his skin. Her eyes never left him, taking in the way he stared at her, the depth of his browns unwavering.  

She felt the skip in her heartbeat, the sudden stumble of her pulse before falling back into step; she had been denying it, desperately needing to be unencumbered by a soul tethered to normalcy. She knew she was to leave, and so logic dictated she couldn’t grow attached. 

But a part of her ignored her claim, pushing her to her knees as a way to free herself to her desires. 

“Care to join me?” 

And he was resolute in giving her whatever she wanted – a need of his own, even for just one night of companionship. 

She pulled further away from him, his hand dropping to her lap. He then glanced at her lips, his throat dry, before meeting her again. 

He picked up his drink, chugging down the last sip and placed the cup by his side, turning to her. 

He took her hand in his, raising it to his lips as he kissed her knuckles. “Lead the way.” Determination hidden behind his voice, he spoke low, a slight rumble shaking his chest. 

Lacking delay, Kára pulled him to his feet and marched away from the campfire, the fortress asleep under her light footsteps with the couple scurrying away into secrecy. 

Once they reached her room, Finan walked towards the hearth as she locked the door behind him. 

He took to lighting up the space while she made quick work of her armor, removing every piece and moved towards the bed. 

She remained in her tunic just as Finan finished, the fire burning comfortably in its nest. She pulled him up to stand, her hands undoing his own, reaching for his sword belt, the pauldron covering his left shoulder down to the forearm's braces covering his wrists.  

He let her be, helping her with the finishing touches until she grasped at the leather tunic he still wore and pivoted, making him sit at the edge of the bed. She straddled him and resumed her task, discarding the remaining of his clothes covering his chest until he was bare. 

She then stopped, breathless. 

She pulled back, on his knees, and admired the way his muscles had grown – she was not blind to the way his arms had taken heat, the tissues flexed and defined, naturally settling back into his body.  

He stilled, watching her as her fingers slithered down to his stomach. He then reclined, lying on the mattress with his hands to her hips. 

A shaky breath escaped him, a sudden wave of shyness crossing over his cheeks. 

She cursed under her breath, mesmerized by his thriving strength, suddenly titillated by the thought of his body carnally pressed to hers.  

“Are ya sure about this?” 

She smiled, a smirk dimpling into her cheeks. “I am. Are you?” She could see a slight hesitation shimmering in his eyes, her smile dissipating as she waited for his answer. 

She hovered above him, arm bent by the side of his head, the other tickling his chest hair into random patterns. 

“Aye.” 

She teased him, ghosting her lips over his as he chased her, desperate for a kiss.  

She pulled away instead, wanting to spell out the intention of their night.  

“We’re simply two friends helping each other wash off the day.” 

She could not acknowledge the ache she felt in her heart, a craving she hadn’t felt for a time – a longing she needed to push aside as the night did not call for it. 

‘Just for the next few hours...’ she repeated in her head, a prayer to herself. 

"Whatever you say.” Lost in the intimacy gripping at them, veins tying them together through flesh and bones, Finan could hear the thrumming of his heart between his ears, her hazel hues eyeing him, unrestrained. 

“This won’t mean anything in the morning, alright?”  

Conviction – an attempt to keep such shady truth to herself. 

He barely registered her words, enthralled by her presence – the sheer power she had over him in this moment, a feeling he willingly bowed down to.  

He was aching for more, anticipation scorching his fingertips as he held her in his arms.  

He grasped at the fabric of her shirt, tugging it from the back as he chased for her his lips faintly grazing over her own. She sighed against him, sudden urgency pulsing through her veins.  

Pulling away from him, she reached for the hem, quickly pulling it over her head before discarding it.  

She ignored the goosebumps traveling up her spine, her eyes cast down to meet him.  

Finan muttered, cursing in pleasure at the sight above him; a faint throbbing between her legs, she bit her lip as she watched him fall in a trance with the feel of his palms warming her skin from her hips to her chest, his thumbs caressing the sides of her breasts, teasing her.  

He then took notice of a small mark in the middle, a vague discolored shape nestled on her chest. He traced it over, earning a soft sigh to escape her as she dropped her head downwards, looking over his hand resting on her naked skin.  

She kept her eyes on his hand, locking in the movement as he trailed further up until he reached her neck to her jaw, fingers stroking her chin and lips. 

She shifted her eyes towards him as he sat up, nudging her closer until he felt the pink of her skin graze him. 

Impatience settling between them, the rush to fall into oblivion was rapidly growing, ready to burst from the seams.  

The soft breath they shared, intimate in its dance – the harmony of steps flowed back and forth in want, its essence playful, taunting. 

They continued to undress each other, Kára grabbing onto the lace of his pants before Finan swiftly turned the tables, making her lie down on her back; the sudden movement had her squeal in shock though laughter caught up as he loomed above her, smugness clear in his eyes. 

He took his chance, parting her covered thighs as he lowered himself atop her, his weight leaving her pleasurably breathless, and closed in the distance, finally pressing his lips firmly against hers. 

It had been something he had wanted to do for a long time; to feel the warmth and softness of her skin affectionate upon his. 

He grew intoxicated as he slowly devoured her, relishing in the way he easily quivered under her touch, its ringing descending into his core. 

He could not stop, wanting to breathe her in continuously, swallowing the scent coating her limbs where even the remnants of the ale tasted sweet across her tongue. 

The soft sound of her moans, captured at the back of his throat, trembled under his chest. 

She lost sight of the moment, pursuing the sparks of delight he created, fervently licking at the crumbs – famished.  

Eagerness clawed through veins, sinking them further into bliss and away from the shore. 

The last piece of clothing fell to the ground, delivering her under his mercy as he started trailing down her chest, kissing her birthmark and sucking at her breasts while his hands slipped down to her hips, holding her in place. 

Heavy breaths filled the air, her back snapped away from the mattress as she grasped onto the bed sheets, his dexterous fingers seeking warmth between her thighs.  

The soft sounds of her moans, his name whispered pleasurably across her tongue – a sweet song he held onto, a savory feeling he needed to taste over and over again. 

They spent the rest of the night entangled within each other, both bodies falling into the depth of ecstasy, flesh tainted in bruises and sweat, hardened grips and trembling chords at the helm of their embrace. 

He had become addicting, constantly looking for more – begging for more.  

The way he was taking care of her, making sure she found pleasure under his touch, dedicating every waking breath upon her body; he was unknowingly filling her need to be held, and protected, and cared for.  

Following such a trying day, Finan was soothing her worries, hushing the noise away for the simple bliss burning at their feet. 

     He had expected her to leave as soon as they were done, uninterested in giving time to a calm afterglow.  

He held in his surprise when she lingered, lying on top of him. She had been ready to leave, carrying on with the rest of the night but the timid caresses across her back had stopped her, finding comfort in the way the motion of his fingertips could easily soothe her. 

She gave herself a moment before slipping away, a strained whimper escaping at the back of her throat as she fell next to him.  

“Fuck, this felt good.” She exhaled, both of them staring up and breathless. He ran his fingers through his hair, chuckling softly before turning back to look at her. 

“You’re welcome.” He teased. 

He saw the stretch of her cheeks, her voice vibrating a laughter that shook her chest. She pivoted to him, a smirk gracing her reddened lips. “Are you boasting yourself now?” She shifted, lying sideways as she placed weight on her left elbow, her other hand against him. “Might I remind you, Irishman, you were practically begging heaven as you so dearly and desperately called for me.” She teased him, her nails lightly scratching his chest hair as they danced upon his skin, creating layers of shivers running amuck.  

“Really?” He mimicked her movement, shifting to face her. “And do tell, show me how needy I was for you.” Hand to her jaw, the thickness in the roll of his tongue caught her off-guard as he tugged her his way, the smugness within his gaze heating up her cheeks.  

She tried shaking it off, pretending to think it over. “Well, let’s see-” She turns to find his lap, sitting atop him as she pushed him to lie down. “Oh, fuck, Kára!” He chuckled as he watched her with a grin, enamored by her theatrics, the extravagance in her movements and tone. “Yes, oh god- Kára, you feel like fucking heaven-” A bellowed a laughter from the depth of his lungs, he caught her in his arms, retaliating as he started pinching her, tickling her until she gave up her guard and fell against him. He swiftly shifted, lying her on her back and hovered above her. 

“Is that how you think I sound?” Her breathy giggles fanned across his lips as she nodded, biting her inner cheek.  

Locking eyes, they were attempting catching their breaths as laughter gently died down; though amusement had filled them for this short moment, it had dissipated for heavier air, their chests heaving as Finan settled between her legs, his arms above her as he tenderly stroked her cheek down her chin, his rough fingertips nudging her bottom lip and giving them a quick glance before meeting her hazels. 

He then leaned forward, a soft bump of her nose to his before kissing her. 

She closed her eyes and wrapped her arms around him, her knee bending by his waist as she fell in his embrace. She just as quickly kissed him back, her lips parting wantonly. 

The caresses were slow as they took their time. It was the way he held on, the strokes languid – untidy, as if to coax secrets out of the marrow of her bones.  

She followed, a beggar under the weight of his body as he lured her into a state of bliss; they stilled, bodies unmoving with only her soft sighs gracing his ears for every other split of a second apart, a short breath out of water before diving back in. 

Her palms slid up, tracing the muscles of his arms as they rested above her head; she searched for him, wanting to hold his hands. He slowly pulled away, catching the soft honeyed glow around her pupils, silently reaching for her, fingers interlaced comfortably. 

Once again, he brushed the tip of his nose against hers before trailing down to kiss her cheek, her jaw and down her neck, nestling against her. 

She tilted her head his way and slipped her fingers away from him as she hugged him, gently scratching the back of his neck. 

He sensed a change in her demeanor, slowing him down. “Are you alright?” 

A small smile curved her lips. “I am now...” 

He pulled away, looking at her, intrigued. 

Solemnity covered her shades of brown in her gaze, casting shadows across her features. “You had my back today...” 

There was wonder in the way she was looking at him, a soft hint of astonishment furrowing her brows. 

A faint lopsided smile stretched his mouth, a reassuring gesture. “You were looking out for Ragnar. Someone had to look out for ya.” 

“What of you?” She stroked his cheek, placing a soft peck to his lips as he settled next to her, arms around her with her back partially laying against his chest. 

“I don’t need anyone to watch my back. I am too quick for anyone to catch.” He teased, the playful tone in his words making her chuckle.  

“Your agility knows no bound, is that it?” He heard the grin in her response and only huffed a chortle, the sound shaking her.  

Silence sought them afterwards. 

They remained still with Finan nestling against her, taking in the warmth of her body as he pressed his lips across her neck and shoulder. 

Her eyes fluttered shut, listening to his breathing and the faint sound of his beard scratching her skin; serenity smothered her bones, holding her tightly for safety and comfort.  

“Thank you for this...” She whispered under her breath. She then turned around, settling against his chest.  

“No need to thank me.” His tone – lullingly shaped into the way she pushed herself closer to him. 

A coy smile across her face, she placed a kiss on his collarbone and mumbled against him, her hands slithering down to his stomach, rubbing palm to flesh. “I could definitely use someone of your... agility, for a good hump every once in a while.”  

A throaty chuckle escaped him, resonating while smirking as he turned to her. “Does that mean we will be doing this again?”  

She pivoted as well, one leg carelessly thrown around him, her breasts pressed to him. “Sure.” She gave him a nonchalant shrug and proceeded, leading him on, taunting him playfully. “I don’t see the harm unless you-” 

“No harm at all. That is alright with me.” He held up his hands up in defense, tackling on the banter she had initiated. 

“Good.” She bit the skin inside her lip as she moved to straddle him once again and straightened her back. Hands to her hips, he remained with the smug look across his face, stroking her bare skin, the callousness of his touch desperately welcomed. 

His hues followed her silhouette, from the way desire had colored her cheeks to streams reaching the sparks across her eyes, to the way her braids had grown disheveled and pushed away to rest on her back, down the marks he had left earlier tonight, sweetly decorating her chest and further down to the way she hugged his hips, as if to anchor herself atop him, not wanting to part. 

He sat up, wrapping his arms around her as his head fell backwards, meeting her gaze. She cupped his cheeks, her thumbs faintly running over the corners of his mouth and across his bottom lip. 

“Now, do you think Uhtred will mind waiting for you?”  

“I’m sure he’ll understand.” He caught the tip of her finger, as he locked gaze with her. 

With a stifled giggle, mischief glowed within her hazel eyes, anticipation rising in the pit of her stomach. 

“Let’s make him wait, then.” 

--------

xoxo

taglist: @gemini-mama @iamfandomnerd @ladyinred2248 @gco95

[justanoasisimagines]

Preference - First Kiss

Requests are open! Credit to @cafekitsune for the banner and the divider!

Osferth; Osferth is a nervous wreck for your first kiss. He doesn't know what to do. Where does he put his hands? How does he know you want to kiss him? He's also terrified it's going to be bad. The last thing Osferth wants is for it to be a bad experience because if it is you're not going to want to do it again.

Sihtric; Sihtric's first kiss with you is a long time coming. It occurs spontaneously; neither one of you see it coming. It's sloppy and messy, but it's perfect for the two of you. Most likely to happen after a battle, as emotions are running high.

Uhtred; Uhtred and your first kiss is after an intense moment. Both of you have been skirting around each other for a while. Both of you are smiling like crazy afterward. Uhtred immediately goes in for another kiss. It's soft, it's tender but still as passionate and meaningful.

Finan; Finan and your first kiss is intense. You are both in denial about your feelings, Sihtric dares you both to kiss each other if there's nothing between you. Except there is. The second your lips touch each other neither one of you can find the ability to stop. Which is a relief to Ulhtred, Sihtric and Osferth. They've all known you've both been harboring feelings, but too stubborn to admit it.

[finanmoghra]

Charming Irishman

pairing modern!Finan x reader

summary an irish pub opens in front of your flower shop, and you can't resist that charming irish who owns it.

warnings smut, finan in general

word count 4.1k

gif credit

a/n guys english isn't my first language and i've never wrote smut in eng, so forgive me for any mistakes, i tried my best. also i suck with small talk so maybe things will happen "fast"

-

It's a typical thursday at Winchester, you are heading your way to your flower shop as you always do in the mornings. That street is so habitual to you by now, the tiny coffee shop, the record store, the stationery shop, and oh, that irish pub of course. That place used to be a lot of stuff until 4 months ago when some men bought the place and open an irish pub right in front of your shop. You don't talk like it's an annoyance, everythings is quiet as usual for a pub during the day, but you're not so sure about the night.

The thing is, a month or two ago, a dark-haired man walked into your shop, with a smirk on his face, you have seen him around, principally that smirk, you noticed that he worked at the pub but when you first heard his voice with the strong accent you assumed that he was the owner. At the first time, he asked for your help to buy some flowers for his sister, whose were moving back to the town, he explained in an attempt to start a conversation, you suggested him pink roses and while you prepare the bouquet, he introduced himself as Finan, and as you assumed, the pub owner. You had a samll talk before he left.

Two weeks after that, Finan started coming over every week, usually on thursday, like today, and you always have his order almost ready by the time he shows up. You two got along very easily, he was all flirty over you, politely, however. You started to have longer conversations as the weeks passed by and was in one of those that he explained why the same order every week. His mother was struggling with some problems and when he showep up at the family dinner with flowers for his sister, he noticed that she got a bit emotional, so now he takes 'em every week to cheer her up. You couldn't resist thinking he's such a sweet guy after that, even though you try not to give attention to his flirts, you can't deny that you enjoy his company, he has been saving you from boredom and entertaining you on monotonous days, as he casually shows up on days other than thursdays.

The hours fly by and when you realise, you're hearing the front door bell ringing and a familiar figure walk in.

— Hi Finan, it's been a time since I've seen you. — you say with a little smile on your face.

— Hey Y/N! Did ya miss me? — you could tell that damn smirk was on his face even if you weren't looking.

— Miss your jerk face? Never. — yes, you did miss him.

— I'm gonna take it as a compliment. — he winked at you — Sorry about my absence, it's been a busy week.

— St. Patrick's Day, I presume.

— Yeah, we have some weeks until then, but as an irish, I have to make a proper celebration, ya know. — he tapped his fingers at the counter while looking at you — And talking about pub stuff, ya should come for the happy hour tomorrow.

As consistent as his visits on thursday, it is his invitations.

— I'm gonna think about it. — you say as you finish the bouquet, you won't admmit but you always leave some things to do when he arrives so you have more time to enjoy his company.

— C'mon, ya always say that! Ya have to meet the pub and the boys wants to know ya better!

The boys whose Finan is talking about are, Sihtric and Osferth, who both work with him, and Uhtred, they're Finan's best friends who he is always talking about. You kinda know them from seeing around but never really talked to them.

And, he's right. You always says the same thing, but in your defense it's been a bit hard to resist all these flirts, and you fear getting closer to him and ending up with a broken heart. You're sure he's a sweet, kind and cool guy, but also he seems to be quite womanising as well.

— I swear I'm going to think about it. — a smile grew up on your face as you realise he got puppy eyes

— Really? — he asks.

— Really! — you roll your eyes although you're smiling to him.

You two got engaged into a conversation and don't even see the time passing.

— Damn it! I'm really late, I have to go now. — he says after having a look on his watch.

You were ready to say something when he gets close and pecked you in your cheek. — Bye, lady. — he says as he walk away.

You could feel your cheeks getting warm and you froze but managed to say something before he leaves.

— You may see me tomorrow.

He didn't say anything but you know he was wearing that smirk.

-

Finan's visit at your store is not the only constance in your thursdays, actually you reunite with your former roommate and best friend, Ealswith, at thursday's nights. You two meet when you were both on college and had started living together after some time, it's been a while since you two live separetely, but you two still really closer, thankfully to the girls' night.

You two were really enjoying the night while having some wine and snacks, listening to music and soon that topic came up.

— He came over today, as usual, invited me to go to the pub tomorrow, I said I was going to think.

— As usual. — Ealswith mumbles.

— Stop it. — you smack her arm — And he kissed me before leaving. At the cheek! — I say before she get too excited.

— C'mon! You should go, really. You can no more act like you don't like him, it's so obvious.

— I cannot go! You know it.

— I know what? By the way you tell me, he's into you! And he wants to know you better out of your workspace.

You start to argument but Ealswith cuts you. — Don't say you afraid! You need to stop assuming things, maybe he's all flirty because he likes you.

— I- argh.. — you hide your face in your hands, you know she's right.

— Hey, hey! Look at me. Tomorrow you will close the shop, go to your home and I will meet you there to help you get ready, I'm going with you so if anything goes wrong or you don't feel well, we go home, right?

— Don't you think he's gonna find it, I don't know, weird to bring someone?

— I'm pretty sure he will understand you not going alone, and hey, maybe you can set me up with one of his friends. — she winks at you and you both start laughing.

— Okay, alright then.

-

So as planned, Ealswith showed up at your house to help you get ready as you were too nervous, it took a while but you could finally decided what to wear. It was nearly 6 p.m when you asked for a cab and it didn't take too long to arrive so in a few minutes you were at the pub.

You could feel your hand a bit shaky before walk in, but Ealswith noticed and hold it 'til you calm down.

You entered the pub and looked for that familiar figure, you couldn't find him but you managed to find Osferth, who waved at you and called Finan's attention to you.

— Hey Y/N! Are ya really here? — he greets you, laughing a bit

— I told you would maybe see me today!

— Don't blame me for being surprised. — You rolled your eyes at his answer, still smiling. — Ya brought a friend, hi!

You intruduce her to Finan and after that he takes both of you to their table, and properly presents you to the boys.

— What do ya ladies would like to drink? — he asks as we are all settled down.

— Just a pint, it's good. Right? — you turns to Ealswith and she nodded.

— One more round then! — he says to the waiter close to our table.

— It's good to finally meet you, Y/N! If you didn't work here in front I would think that Finan made you up. — Sihtric says and makes Uhtred and Osferth laughs and Finan roll his eyes.

— Yeah, it's nice to have an opportunity to see if everything Finan says about you, it's true. — Uhtred takes part.

You can ser Finan's cheeks a little bit red and you smile at this. — Well, I hope he have only said good things about me. — you answer kinda shy yet.

— Trust me, not a single bad thing. — Uhtred says.

— Except from you never accepting his invitations. — Osferth says and Finan smack his arm. Poor boy.

— It's good for you all to meet Y/N, and it's good for me to finally see the face of the mainly topic of our talks. — Ealswith says and you can feel the blood rushing to your cheeks as it get warm up.

— Hope you've heard of us too. — Sihtric winks at her.

-

Anyone who passed by your table would think you were all friends for years, you got along easily and the night was being so fun, you were really enjoying their company.

After some time, you and Ealswith excused yourselves and headed the way to the toilet.

— God! He's so into you, more than I've thought. — she exclaimed at the moment you were out of their sight.

— Do you think? — yeah, you noticed how he looked at you since you arrived, but you didn't want to assume something.

— You know I say this because I love you, but stop being a fool! He fell down for you, I can say it for sure by what his friends said.

You couldn't argument with her, the signs were there and you have to admit that this is all you have wished for.

On the way back to the table you told her to go ahead and you were just back her. You stopped at the bar and asked for water, and while waiting you felt someone approach, you prepare to deal with a drunk guy who's trying to get along with some woman, but actually you feel chills when you heard that voice.

— May I say ya look stunning tonight?

— I would appreciate it, yeah. — you smile as you turn to him. You may be dreaming about that voice and smirk for days long.

— It's everything alright? — Finan asks.

— Yeah, just needed a bit of water before going back. — the bartender hands you a glass of water and you thanks him.

— So, what ya think? — he points to the place.

— You did a good job here, it's a nice place for sure.

— I'm not even going to ask about my friends 'cause this is something for Ealswith to answer. — we both shared a laugh.

— She and Sihtric got along very well, I see.

— Don't blame her, he can be very persuasive.

— So does she.

You two spent some time talking alone, just sharing things and getting more closer to each other.

When you two decided to go back to the group table they were all laughing of something.

— What's happening? — Finan asks as he pull a chair for you on his side.

— We were just telling Ealswith about one day after we started here and you crossed the streets so many times trying to get a reason to go to Y/N's shop. — Sihtric answers, still laughing.

— We're surprised you didn't notice him, Y/N! — Osferth says. — Otherwise I think you'd be scared of him.

— Good I didn't notice though. — I reply laughing at Finan.

— Alright, alright, stop talking about me.

You got a bit lost at the conversation when he stretched his arm across your chair and you could feel his fingers running through your undressed shoulder.

-

It was nearly midnight when you and Ealswith decided to go home. You said goodbye to the boys, saying it was nice to meet them and on the way out, Finan decided to go along with you.

You were at the pub entrance waiting for the cab Ealswith asked for, you could feel Finan catching your hand into his, he pulled you closer to say:

— It was a good night.

— Yeah, it was. — you said with a low voice just for him to hear.

— Hope we can repeat it, or maybe just the two of us. — he winked at you.

— I would like that, for sure.

You two were getting really closer when Ealswith call you out. — Y/N! It's here.

— See you thursday. — you smile at him, you walked away but turned back when remember something. — I almost forget it. — you handle him your shop card, but at the back you've written your personal number.

He catched it and you didn't think so much before approaching just to peck him in the lips for a few seconds before leaving.

— This woman will drive me crazy. — he speaks to himself when you've already leave.

-

Another week just started, you spent your weekend betwen spending some time with your friends trying to keeping up with everyone's lives and chatting with Finan. The last part taking over your weekend.

Things were getting a little bit more serious since you kissed him goodbye on friday and you allowed yourself to be open to a possible romance. Finan's flirty personality stayed the same, he would do it at any chance it was given to him, and you like it, it's good to feel that somebody wants you.

You were talking to your friend, Aethelflaed, on the phone about Finan and you jumped when you heard the sound of the door bell thinking that could be him but you turned around and saw a boy with curly hair into your shop.

— Morning! How can I help you?

— I'm Aethelstan, I'm here for the assistant job, we've talked on the phone. — the boy says, a bit shy.

— Oh, right, Aethelstan! I'm sorry I was a bit distracted. — you shake hands with him. —You've mentioned you are studying biology, am I correct?

— Yes, you are.

— So I think the flower stuff is gonna be easy, I just need to show you some other things and then you can have your first day here, and at the end of the day we discuss if everything is going alright.

-

The kid learnt the things pretty well, that was good because it's been a busy day so far.

You were checking some things at the computer when you saw a familiar figure at the other side of the street, he had just arrived, it seemed.

— Aethelstan, I'm going out quickly, pay attention if someone comes in. — you say a bit loud as the kid was at the back of the store.

You crossed the street before he get into the pub. — Finan,hey! — you call his attention.

—Y/N, hi! — he comes closer to hug you quickly.

— I just wanted to ask what are the plans for St. Patrick's day?

— So ya're planning to come?

— Only if it's seems cool enough. — you give him a smirk

— I won't say more than this, but if ya come ya gonna experience the best party of your life.

— I don't know if I believe, but I'll give you try.

— You should bring Ealswith! — you jumped when you heard Sihtric, he showed up from nowhere. — I'm sorry I have to steal your man but we got work to do.

You felt the warm on your cheeks after he called Finan "your man", but you didn't say anything, actually you liked it.

— See ya later! — you hear Finan says before being dragged by Sihtric. You blowed him a kiss before he entered the pub and then you went back to your store.

-

It seemed that an eternity have passed before friday arrives. It was a busy week and you barely saw him, even on thursday, he came but was in a hurry.

It was a good week, although. Aethelstan really helped you, you just found out that he and Finan are neighbors, they both live at the same building. The poor boy had to listen you talking about Finan a lot during that week, especially when Ealswith and Aethelflaed came.

You were actually doing nothing but counting the hours for you to go home, and Aethelstan noticed it.

— You know you can go home and let me finish stuff here, I can close the store.

— Are you sure of this?

— Yeah, it's not a big deal, you can trust me.

He was right, it was not a big deal.

— Okay then, thanks Aethelstan! See you monday.

It didn't take long for you to arrive at home, of course you had decided your outfit during the week, you were only waiting for Aethelflaed and Ealswith to come so you could get ready. Once the girls arrived and you all got ready, your home was a mess after this, you took a cab to the pub.

The pub was more crowded than usual, you notice that once you arrived, but it wasn't hard to find Finan as he and his friends were at the same place as the last week. You greeted everyone before getting a seat at his side, you introduced Aethelflaed to them and also met Uhtred's fiancé, Gisela, she was a kind woman, you hope you get more chances to hang out with her.

The night was going really well, you and the girls have danced a lot, you ordered too many green drinks, that you weren't sure of what it was, you were all having fun, there wasn't a moment when someone wasn't laughing. You felt really happy between them all, it was good feelings that you have made new friendships like them.

-

Things went a little wild when Finan intercepted you on your way back from the toilet and took you to his office upstairs. He closed the door behind you, his arms now rounding you.

— Oi! Calm down, my dear. — you said, not knowing exactly how to deal with him so close to you.

— I cannot, not when ya are out there being so beautiful, I can't stay away from ya anymore. — you feel chills when his hands squeeze your waist, pulling you closer to him

— You don't need to. — you gave him a smirk, but it didn't last too long as he got even more closer and catched your lips in his.

You felt breathless, it was even better than you thought, his lips were soft but rough over yours. His hands sliding down on your hips, it was a sign that things were getting hotter. When both of you were running out of breath, you could feel him break the kiss but leading the way of his lips to your neck. You gasped with the sensation, he sucked that point behind your ear.

You could feel his hardness against his trousers as he grabbed your arse, you started to feel the need to get rid of your clothes and when you took your hands to Finan's shirt he took a step back. You didn't understand why he would do that.

— Look, I really want ya, but I'm not doing in the right way. — he could see your confusion. — I didn't plan for this to happen here, so what ya think about going home with me, uh?

— I don't want to look desperate, but please, take me home. — you kissed him before you two settled down and go downstairs. You found Aethelflaed on the way and told her where you were going before leave.

The way on the cab was.. something. His hands running through your thighs all the way to his home, you were glad it was close. As soon as you entered at his flat, he pinned you on the door, kissing you hunger than before. He picked you up, your thighs now almost undressed under his touch as he leads you to his bedroom.

— Ya have no idea how many times I've thought about ya, about your lips against mine. Ya are such a dream, Y/N. — he says as he laid you on his bed, making sure to touch every inch of your body.

You pulled him closer enough to whisper on his ear. — And you have no idea of how many nights I dreamed about you touching me like this.

He kissed you hard, hands undoing the zipper of your dress and soon you were only wearing a black lace matching underwear. The look he gave you made you feel like you were burning inside.

— It isn't fair that you are all dressed yet. — you said running your fingers through his, still dressed, chest.

— This won't be a problem anymore. — he smirked at you as he started to unbutton his shirt. It didn't take so long until both of you were only on your underwear, you not so much as he took your bra off, sucking on your breasts, before going down on your body, starting to run his mouth on your inner thigh while playing with the laces on your panties before taking off.

You let a moan out when his lips pressed on your sweet spot, he went dived onto you, sucking on your clit, making you feel like you were in heaven.

— Finan, please, more! — you groaned when you felt his finger rounding you before enter you. You couldn't control your moans, praising him as his fingers curved inside you, hitting that spot. You couldn't contain your hands from pulling his hair when you came on his mouth.

You only had time to take a deep breath before Finan was all over you, kissing you breathless, your taste on his tongue. He parted the kiss, smiling at you as he brushes your hair off your face.

— Are ya ok? For another one?

— More than ok! — you answer laughing.

He took a condom from his trausers, rolling on and soon he was back over you. He kissed you as he was slowly entering you, and both of you were groaning loudly. His name leaving in between your lips like you were praising him, the sound of your hips colliding getting louder as he slammed into you. He was relentless, hard and fast on you, your nails scrapping his back, your thighs gripped his hips making he going deeper.

— Fuck, Finan! — you groaned loudly

He flipped you, now you were on top so you started riding him, rolling your hips over his causing to hit your spot. He grabbed your arse and you layed down over him, meeting his lips again, going up and down on him, now with his hands controlling the rhythm. You felt you were close so you started moving faster, soon you were clenching around him, moaning his name as he came right after you.

He slowly pulled out of you, and you fell at his side, breathless.

— That was... I don't even know. — you say between breaths, laughing with him.

— I'll be right back. — he kissed you on your cheeks before getting up, he pick up his boxer and then disappear into some door. He came back with a towel on his hands and get on the bed again. — Now let me take care of ya.

You were already sleepy but you smiled at this.

After he clean both of you, he pulled you so you could lay on his chest, his arms holding you close and all you could do was relax.

— Ya're too good to be true, mo grá. — he left a kiss on your forehead before fall asleep with you.

[tlkfaerie]

Impossible

Pairing: Sihtric x reader x Finan ✩࿐

⋆｡˚☾⋆｡𖦹 °✩ wc: 5.9k

note: I'm sensing a pattern arising where the reader is related to Uhtred in my writing pffft I just love it lol. this fic is a bit shameless of me tbh, consider Sihtric and Finan to be your mindless Kens in this.

summary: Sihtric and Finan do not take kindly to your attitude after they catch you with another warrior, leading to a night filled with confession and obsession. ✧˖°

MDNI! 18+ ⋆.ೃ࿔*:･TW!: mentions of potential assault, period-typical misogyny, mentions of blood, pining, F/M/M, oral (male receiving), p in v, slight domination etc

You had been resting all day, abandoning any duties that had been bestowed on you by Beocca or the others. Osferth had been with you for a while, but had run as soon as he saw some of your lady friends approaching, fearing that they would hassle him. Though he was sweet, he was incredibly oblivious, a trait that had gotten him into serious trouble - and by default, you too.

It was always you that seemed to be involved in some kind of dilemma, Uhtred's sister, clumsy and short-tempered. You always likened yourself more to Brida, wanting to follow in her wild, mildly assaulting ways with people. Ragnar cherished you, but always decided that Uhtred would be able to keep you safer, as he had a mixed band of trustworthy individuals.

You wandered in the nearby woods, collecting random flowers that interested you and occasionally stuffing them in-between the threading of your dress, which by now was soaked with a layer of mud from the terrain beneath your feet. Thyra had warned you not to arrive back too late. You knew that you shouldn't be too long, not on your own like this, but for now, everything in Uhtred's world seemed remarkably peaceful. For someone who liked to play with Alfred's commands, this was a miracle.

You revelled in your own company for a little longer, feeling your heart stop when your peace was finally disturbed by hooves. Before you turned around, you feared the worst, that it was some enemy of Uhtred's come to claim you and sell you for ransom. Fingertips going cold, you rested your thumb on the hiding place that you usually kept a small blade in, feeling its absence and cursing wildly.

Shit.

"And why do I find you out here all alone, lady?" you vaguely recognised the voice to be Gudrun, one of your brother's warriors and somewhat of a childhood acquaintance. You turned swiftly, to find the man looking down at you from his horse. He was handsome in his own right - but you had often seen him night after night sitting with a cup of ale, and whatever company he could find for the night. You did not blame him, finding yourself at the mercy of ale from time to time, but wondered why he squandered his talents on such wasteful hobbies so often.

"Please don't let me stop you on your journey Gudrun, I wouldn't want to slow you down," you began to dismiss him somewhat, feeling a fool for straying so far from the village with so little to protect you. You knew he was one of Uhtred's men, but the company of men was a tumultuous one.

"Not at all, Y/N. In fact, I can think of no better way for my journey to be disturbed," he smiled rather darkly, a tone of strange flirtation in his voice. You assumed he was harmless, relaxing a little as you accepted his compliment. You wanted Uhtred to come behind him at any moment to protect you, but he had his own children and wife to worry about now, so you were forced to remain.

"That's too kind, Gudrun, where are you headed?"

"To Lunden, just on some small duty. It's nothing serious. You should accompany me, lady."

You grimaced at that, knowing what had occurred at Lunden not too long ago. Gudrun seemed pleased at your discomfort. You felt bad for characterising him as a brute, wanting to remain pleasant to him, but you had observed how he was with his women before, often leaving them bruised and in need of comfort.

You politely refuse, wanting to be done with the situation, but then he dismounts from his horse, the poor thing jolting slightly. You watched the animal relax, returning your gaze to the much taller man who now hovered above you, blonde hair cascading in layered pieces around his face.

You stood your ground when he spoke. "Are you sure, pretty? I would not want to leave you out here alone, where any man could claim you for his own," he whispered, forehead practically touching yours as he took a few steps closer. You didn't like what he was saying, cheeks burning with his words, feeling your own brows furrowing. You were perfectly capable of defending yourself, or at least you thought you were.

Uhtred's best men and your closest friends, Sihtric and Finan, spent hours with you teaching you basic movements of defence, and when you were in the company of Brida and Ragnar, which wasn't often, you often challenged them to silly fights that you had occasionally won.

You didn't think before you shouted at him, "have the weight of your disgusting balls dragged your brain down with them? Or did you not hear what I said?"

You realised all too late that you had escalated the situation, watching the surprise on his face grow into anger, stalking backwards as you realised Gudrun's intentions may not have been as pure as you once thought. You didn't want to cause Uhtred any more unnecessary problems or create new tensions, but the way Gudrun was now staring at you reminded you that you were truly at his mercy.

"Those are such vulgar words for a lady like you, Y/N. I could have your tongue for that, but I can think of a better use for it first," he grinned, closing in on you. Your back quickly hit a tree, and you felt an immediate flush of nervousness. Nevertheless, it quickly subsided, and you allowed yourself a moment to breathe, readying your next words carefully.

"What would your mother think of the way you speak?" you were quick to spit in his face, acutely aware of the danger you were putting yourself in, but strangely loving it, "have the women around you not civilised you? Not taught you manners? Or were you raised by wretched wolves?"

Slipping away from under him and past the tree, you had expected to make somewhat of a swift escape, but Gudrun grabbed you before you could even think, his entire hand encircling your arm, squeezing until you felt yourself going cold, a tear making its way down your cheek.

"So stubborn for such a pestilent whore," he returned the favour, spitting onto your cheek as he bared his teeth at you, almost growling, "so stupid. I was taught how to treat a woman, and I will show you-"

Before he could continue, the scene was disturbed by more galloping, and the unsheathing of a sword. You recognised the voice that you heard next to be Finan's, and you resented it.

"Gudrun, what the hell do you think you're doing? Is this what you call being a warrior?" He shouted, immediately dismounting from his horse, sword in hand. He looked at you, eyes swimming in concern for you, which you returned with a scowl. You hated that he had come to your aid, and what was worse, you could see Sihtric coming towards the three of you as well.

Normally, you would be happy to see the two of them, but not on this occasion. The three of you had become incredibly close as things had settled down. Before, they had always seemed too busy, but over the year they had sought your company more and more. But their attention meant a watchful eye was always on you. As Uhtred built his family, you thought you had escaped your scoldings, but to no avail, the two of them always had something to say.

And now they were saving you. As they always seemed to do when you were in trouble. It infuriated you; feeling so inferior to the both of them, hating the way they coddled you as though you were some sort of child. You wanted them to see you as a woman. The whole situation made you act in a way you weren't entirely proud of.

"Finan just leave this, I can handle myself," you yelled, feeling shame run through you as Gudrun still gripped you tightly, not allowing you to go anywhere as you pulled and thrashed, practically kicking him. You wanted to literally sink into the ground when you felt Finan's eyes on you. He stood in all his seriousness, but knowing that he would win this altercation with Gudrun, there was also a hint of amusement.

"I'd listen to the lady, Finan, just leave me with her tits and I'll be finished."

Sihtric, who until now had been quiet, looked at you disapprovingly, which only spurred you on further. You loved him at the best of times, but the feeling of inferiority was eating you alive. You kicked and scratched, watching as Gudrun's sword went from pointing to Finan to pointing at you, its sharp end slightly piercing your arm.

"You bastard!" you practically screamed, but it fell on deaf ears. Sihtric, always careful, stepped slowly to your left, as Finan moved to your right, dominating Gudrun's line of sight.

"Go on, Gudrun, go to Lunden, spend all your money on women as you always do, forget this one," Sihtric taunted, rendering your own words invisible as you saw how Gudrun reacted. It seemed as though you had lost your voice. You huffed, wriggling further in his grip, which caused his sword to pierce you even more, drawing blood.

Finan tutted, looking over the both of you to Sihtric, as though they shared an invisible sort of signal that had you torn from Gudrun in seconds. Now you felt yourself in Sihtric's arms, binding you to him. Finan wasted no time, stabbing Gudrun's leg, leaving him there. He whispered something in Gudrun's ear, most likely a warning not to come back , which you thought was wise.

Just as quickly as he had finished with Gudrun, Finan stormed over to you and Sihtric. You hated to admit that Sihtric's grip was warm and welcome, and relief had you practically melting into him, but you knew what was to come.

"How I've missed your childish insolence," Finan remarked, smiling despite your very obvious scowl. Sihtric, however, was more serious, tending to your arm as blood seemed to pour from it endlessly. "You were naive to think you could take him, Y/N, you should not have further endangered yourself." He was quiet, raising a cloth to your wound, pursing his lips as the fabric quickly soaked into a dark mess.

"I had no choice, what would you have me do? Let him take me right then and there?" you knew you were digging yourself a deeper hole, ripping your arm from Sihtric's grasp, letting the cloth he had been holding fall to the floor.

"You know what Sihtric means. You shouldn't have to reason with him, I know, let's just be glad the prick is passed out." Finan kicked the unconscious body of Gudrun, which rocked, but did not muster. Finan looked at you, sensing frustration. He understood you, that you had been placed in an impossible situation, but they had truly only wanted to help you.

The three of you had briefly explained to Uhtred why he would be missing a man from now on, and with that you avoided Sihtric and Finan like the plague for over a week, much to their mutual dismay.

Both Sihtric and Finan sat on a table outside of the ale house, Osferth off somewhere training whilst Uhtred had gone to help Gisela with the children. Left to their own conversation, which was usually a blessing to the both of them, they began to talk about you.

You who hadn't been seen leaving your own home in days other than to bathe or eat. You who used to wander so recklessly, spending days in fields and forests with whoever you could get to join you.

They missed you pestering them with silly questions of battle and fighting, how you observed them with awe when they told stories of their lives before they had met you. Your innocent eyes no longer lit up in front of them, bringing them a pure sense of life after days of death and destruction.

"I must have left my mind on the battlefield," Finan muttered, Sihtric responding with a quiet grin as he sipped on ale. He knew what Finan was saying; the two of them had gained somewhat of an understanding over the past few days, realising that they both had feelings for you.

"Just what the world needs," Sihtric responded, looking at Finan, "two men in love with the same woman who speaks to neither of them." They both chuckled, refusing to let such a thing come between them.

"Something needs to be done, we can't just sit here like miserable bastards." Finan spoke, giving Sihtric a knowing glance. Sihtric scowled as he usually did, wanting to act entirely irrationally but holding himself back for the sake of everyone in the village.

As if their prayers had been answered, you came stumbling out of your home not even seconds later, in full view of the ale house and the two men you sought. Sihtric and Finan, you mentally scoffed.

Your frustration had been brewing for an entire week now. How embarrassed you had been at your outburst, and at your rejection of Finan's help and Sihtric's aid. You were equally as furious at the constant prominence of men in your life. They were everywhere all at once, consuming you, believing they could take whatever they wanted from you.

But what was even more sickly was that you missed your two friends dearly. Playing stupid games of stones with Finan who laughed at the most utterly unfunny things, and Sihtric, ever the affectionate friend, always one step ahead to ensure your safety. You felt like a fool for not realising that you liked them. You really liked them.

You set your sights on the hall and the ale house, where you knew they would surely be, stomping over as if it were your birthright. Once you saw the two of them sitting outside, you recognised their smiles. Wanting to make that short lived, you struck the back of their heads at the same time, plonking down onto the bench nearest to them.

"Y/N-" Sihtric began, but you held up a finger in his face, wagging it infuriatingly.

"No. You must listen to me. I am thankful for what you did to help me with Gudrun, and I'm sorry I haven't reacted as though I were. I was merely upset that a man felt he could do such a thing to me, and that I couldn't do anything about it without help," you didn't even manage a breath as you continued, "I just don't want to be seen as some kind of incompetent fool that needs to be saved. And what makes it worse is that I wanted to teach you both a lesson by being independent, you slugs!'

"Y/N, breathe." Finan chastised, causing your eyes to widen.

"Shut up and let me finish!" you stomped your foot, aggravated by his pretty smile and the way he seemed to unconsciously reach for the hem of your dress to play with. Sihtric also amused you for a second, his expression one of deadly seriousness as he listened to you intently.

"There's more I could say, but I just think I'd rather we go back to normal," you huffed, slightly annoyed at their downcast expressions, "and against all of my judgements about men, I've found myself pining pathetically for the both of you."

"Well, sorry for inconveniencing you so much, lady." Finan smiled, simply thankful that you were back on speaking terms with them. Your anger sat well within him though, and they didn't want to take advantage of the moment, not when your point was very much valid.

"We will teach you to be a great warrior, Y/N," Sihtric smirked rather proudly, punching your arm, to which you responded with a slap and a request for ale. Looking down at your hands, you briefly missed the longing look that the two men gave you.

Another week had passed, and the two men still hadn't confessed to you of their true affections, but the three of you understood that there had been some sort of shift in your relationship. Uhtred had been called to and from King Alfred's company once or twice, leaving you absent of your friends for a few days.

This didn't bother you at all, in fact, you were somewhat relieved from the break. Gisela kept you busy, with walking and games that Beocca had gifted her, you had even swum once or twice with her, entirely free and content. But when she took up her motherly duties, you were free to roam as you pleased, ignoring all civilisation as you wandered further and further from the village.

It was hours later that you returned, feeling anything but fresh, with some cuts and bruises from when you had decided to climb up a tree to take an hour's rest. Much to your dismay, you were not very good at climbing trees.

You hadn't even been entirely sure where your brother and the others had been sent to, as they were constantly marching north and south for some reason, but you had not expected to see them all gathered in the centre of the village walls when you returned from your own rough excursion.

Uhtred ran to you, picking you up in a forceful hug, laughing at your state. "I see you do not know how to stay out of trouble, Y/N. You limp like a fat man!" His shining eyes were somehow swimming with both excitement and exhaustion, and you returned his affections, realising he most likely needed them.

"I see things went your way this time, Uhtred." you let him hug you for just a little longer, sensing he must have faced great struggle to be so affectionate towards you. "How was everything?"

"Fine, sister, fine. I faced nothing quite as fearsome as you." Uhtred allowed his fondness for you to take over him for a moment, glad to be reminded of home and family. You rolled your eyes, patting his shoulder and letting him return to his children.

The air caught in your throat when you finally saw both Sihtric and Finan, talking casually with a few other warriors in the corner. They were dirty, even bloody, furs and capes draped over their enormous frames, sharp faces laughing as they were finally free from duties for a little while longer.

Finan spotted you first, a smile growing on his face as his arms opened warmly to greet you. He had removed the straps clinging to him, so that his sword fell to the floor. You walked slowly towards them, head tilted to the side when you welcomed Finan's embrace, not wanting to say too much as you felt his grip tighten.

You opened your scrunched eyes briefly to see Sihtric next to the two of you, placing a gloved hand on your head, patting it slightly. You blushed at the way he looked at you, realising you had been staring slightly too long, and that Finan had been hugging you for a while now, chin resting on your head.

Finan took you in, your once clean dress swimming in mud and loose leaves. Your braids unravelling slowly, a tad of mud on your face. You looked like you had gone on the journey with them. But, as he stared into your wide eyes, he thought that you had never looked more beautiful.

"I missed the two of you," you finally spoke, words hanging in the air. Sihtric looked down, grabbing your hand and holding tightly. Finan busied himself by fiddling with your braid.

"We missed you. I swear I saw Sihtric cryin' at one point, poor rat was devastated to leave our weakness." Though he spoke in an amusing manner, his eyebrows remained firm, and his smile did not last. The tension was ripe.

"Hey, Finan was the one telling all the men about you. Uhtred nearly had to send him away," the Dane responded, lightening the tone, but confusing you even more. They had been talking about you as their weakness, missing you, and now they couldn't stop touching you in some small form. Why didn't they just do something?

You knew they were polite men in their own regard, and that it would be up to you to initiate something. But what you didn't know, is that once you did, there would never be any going back. The two men wanted you so desperately; they had been discussing logistically how two men could share one woman forever, and had come to the conclusion that they simply just would. Now they were bursting at the seams waiting for you to say you wanted it too. They needed your confirmation.

"You should both come to my home," you said to them, shuffling your feet in the direction of your house. Gisela had taught you a little something about seduction whilst the men had been away, and you wanted to be the one in control of the situation. For now, at least. "For food, I mean. And drink."

"I never knew you could be such a kind hostess, Y/N." Finan said, pulling Sihtric towards him. You scoffed, squinting your eyes at him which caused him to stick out his tongue, a slight chuckle from Sihtric.

They had been to your house plenty of times, even staying over sometimes with Osferth or even Uhtred when they wanted peace and quiet. But this time, something in the pit of your stomach told you it was going to be different. You trotted quickly as they prowled behind you, already knowing the way themselves.

You felt their eyes burning holes into the back of your head as you stood at your door, the two me hovering over you, heads above you. You fumbled a little with the door, sighing in frustration.

"Take your time." mumbled Sihtric, surprising you slightly. Your face burnt like molten lava, and you refused to look at them. The two men gave each other a knowing look, a sense of unfinished business hovering in the air.

Sihtric's words affected you more than you had realised, his soft, deep voice reverberating in your head. You felt a hand on your shoulder, unaware as to which of the men it belonged to, and before you could control your reaction, a minuscule whimper came shooting out of your mouth.

Thankfully, you managed to regain consciousness for the moment and opened the door, ignoring any consequences of the sickly noise you had just let out. Little did you know, the noise had stirred Finan's cock, and Sihtric had had to take a deep breath to control himself, nostrils flaring.

You were teasing them, and you had no idea. Soon realising you had actually promised them food, you decided to make good on that, telling them to sit down, where some meats and a little fruit and bread were waiting. You took a moment to breathe, unable to focus on anything but their figures as they passed you and made a point of touching you as they did.

After some normal chatter, you realised that they weren't eating. At first you thought the food you had brought to them was sour, but upon further inspection of them, you began to fidget in your seat. They were practically ogling you, Finan's eyes carrying a sort of apologetic lust, whilst Sihtric gazed at you as though he was drunk.

A shiver ran down your spine, which caused you to fidget even more, hands picking at your dress. This movement did not go unnoticed by Sihtric, who took this as the perfect opportunity to initiate what you were all clearly thinking,

"You are cold, Y/N, you should come closer," his lips parted, and he truly felt in this moment that the Gods had gifted him with some kind of angel, as you stared open-eyed at him. He felt himself getting impatient, reaching out to you with an open palm when you stood hesitantly, like some sort of animal trapped between wolves.

Finan seemed to enjoy this, stretching back into the chair as you made your way to Sihtric, accepting his hand, not entirely sure on what to do next. After a moment of lingering, Finan answered your prayers with a simple "Sit, Y/N."

Sihtric groaned when you finally placed yourself in his lap, staring into his dual-toned eyes, unable to keep his intimidating gaze for longer than a second. Though you knew in reality he was a sweetheart, in this moment, he seemed dangerous.

Before you could lower your chin, Sihtric gripped it with his rough fingers, forcing you back up to face him, his other hand sliding down to your backside. He did nothing for a moment, each movement incredibly slow.

Other than the crackling fire in the corner of the seating area, all was silent. You realised your braids had unravelled entirely now, wild hair hanging loosely around your face. You hadn't realised how close Finan was until you saw him behind you, standing above you and Sihtric, a tight grip on your loose hair forcing your face even higher. The way he looked down at you, eyebrows furrowing and seemingly glazed with lust, you almost couldn't take it.

"She likes this," Finan muttered, Sihtric humming in agreement. You gasped when the iron grip tightened, forgetting that you were in the presence of two of the greatest warriors in the realm. It turned you on to no end.

Sihtric took advantage of your open mouth, sliding a finger inside, the others holding your chin still. You sucked on the digit rather insatiably, to your own embarrassment, unable to be satisfied until it was soaked and you yourself were drooling onto his trousers. But just as the moment was getting good, as they always did, they found a way to chastise you.

This had been a long, long time coming.

"You must never ignore us like that again, lady," Finan said, "I mean, could you not have just spoken to us? I imagine that would have been a whole lot easier."

The patronising tone had you feeling mildly embarrassed, but the sickly sort of degradation came with sweet caresses, so you managed to forget your pride for a moment.

Instead, despite the grip in your hair and the fingers in your mouth, you nodded, moaning profusely as your eyes rolled back when Sihtric forced another finger in.

"I'd ask for a verbal answer, angel, but I see that probably won't happen." he observed sarcastically, finally loosening his hold for just a moment, your head lolling to the side, wanting to be closer to the both of them. You were rather ashamed of the mess they had turned you into in a matter of minutes.

The feigned sympathy on Sihtric's face was infuriatingly attractive, so much so that you found it within yourself to quickly nip his fingers as he was removing them from your mouth, earning a genuine smile and a strike to the thigh, which was now exposed as your dress had bunched up.

"We own you now, Y/N," Sihtric finally spoke, voice barely above a whisper, "We both own you. You are our woman to love." That was all the confirmation you needed.

As quickly as you could possibly manage, you were kissing Sihtric, barely remembering to breather as you moved rhythmically on his lap, lips disconnecting and soon returning to a forceful kiss with Finan. You were beside yourself, wild like some kind of animal as you felt Sihtric on your neck and Finan on your lips.

It was all too much, and the feeling in your arms seemed to give way, not helping your case as you began to push the both of them.

"What do you need, love?" Sihtric asked, entirely ready to give you everything you needed. If only you could find the words. You didn't answer as Finan worked some sort of sorcery on your neck, sucking and biting just where you felt the most sensitive. "I should not have to ask again."

Sihtric's eye contact became so strong that you immediately cowered, any snide comments you had exiting your brain for the moment.

"Please, please just do something, take me," you panted, Finan's subtle laughter doing nothing to stop your whining. With that, you were transferred into Finan's arms as Sihtric rose, removing unnecessary leathers and protection, leaving himself only in his tunic. Meanwhile, Finan so gracefully laid you down on the bed of furs, your head leaning against the headboard.

"My lady," he half joked, quick to join Sihtric in the removal of his clothing. You followed their lead, untying the laces at the back of your dress with great effort before letting it slide off, kicking it to the ground.

"God," Finan stood staring at you, at your breasts, watching as your skin reacted harshly to the cold. You were drowning in the furs around you, your naked body like some sort of holy piece that priests would surely covet. Sihtric was by your side in seconds, bare chest colliding with your own skin, ecstasy rushing through you.

"we shall have to keep you like this forever, lady." Sihtric wasted no time in fulfilling your pleas, fingers inside of you before you could react, so filling and long, reaching every crevice inside of you. The welcome intrusion was heightened by Finan's body on your other side, playing with your clit, rubbing over and over until the stimulation became unbearable.

A void inside of you had been entirely filled, and your two friends were now wrapping you slowly around their fingers. A part of you wondered what Uhtred would think, whether he would welcome the strange union or dismiss it altogether, but there was no time for that, not when Sihtric was pumping into you, whilst Finan methodically worked his fingers, making you scream.

"Poor thing," Finan drawled out, watching your trembling frame as if it was pure entertainment. "Should we give you what you want? I think we should." Without consulting you, he simply looked at Sihtric, who seemed to have different ideas.

"I don't think she deserves it, I think that temper needs to be controlled a little more." You flinched as his fingers curled inside of you. Finan gave you an apologetic glance, and you couldn't believe he was listening to Sihtric in this moment . . .

"But!-"

"No," Sihtric mumbled, and Finan saved himself from your glare by hiding his face in the crook of your neck, his finger's methodical patterns becoming slower and slower, delaying your release. You were becoming numb at this point.

"Perhaps things could change if you told us who you belonged to?"

You grunted as you were kept on the edge, feeling constant resistance, and unable to admit your feelings. That was until Finan pinched your clit, and Sihtric slapped your inner thigh, rubbing the red skin as he worked himself in and out of you slowly.

"mmfph"

"Who?"

"Sihtric," you breathed, "And Finan."

"Good," Finan moved now, quickening his pace on the outside whilst Sihtric also followed through on his promise, "good girl".

That was all you needed, the praise making your chest blister and ache. It was intoxicating, being able to come entirely undone beneath the two men, feeling them observe you, kiss you, worship you.

"Our turn now."

One of them mumbled. You weren't entirely sure, blinded by your orgasm, feeling muscles in your thighs twitch as your back arched off of the bed. Before you could even come down, You were flipped onto your stomach. The action was nothing to the two men, so strong they could barely feel the effect they had on you. They made you feel weightless.

Finan couldn't help himself, gripping your ass so tightly you felt like it would bruise. The skin ached when he gave it a small pinch, enjoying your jolt into Sihtric as he kneeled close to your face, petting your hair as he often did, except never in this context.

A kiss to your forehead drew you back into consciousness for the moment, but it did nothing to distract you from Finan's actions behind, his cock now trailing up and down your sex, an agitated grunt coming from the Irishman.

"Good god," Finan muttered, no longer uttering some quip or joke, instead relishing in the feeling of the both of you two against one another. Your softness did something to him, tore deep inside of him; a man so consumed with life of battle did not deserve something so pure, he thought.

On the other hand, Sihtric felt like a God himself. His thumb returned to your mouth, feeding the oral fixation you didn't know you had. "Will you take the both os us?" He taunted you, asking you questions while he filled your mouth. The thought of them both intimidated you, and you shuddered when Finan aligned himself with your entrance, slowly pushing in before you could even think.

"Yes, yes, yes," you chanted like a mad woman, drool slipping past your lips in excess amounts, pleasing Sihtric, whose thumb was soon replaced with his thick cock. It slid straight to the back of your throat, slowly beginning to match the pace of Finan's thrusts.

Though Finan was attempting to be gentle, he did not recognise his own strength, apologising out of habit when you squealed. The sound was muffled by Sihtric's cock, his pelvis now hitting your nose. Both men shared a look above you, in silent agreement, realising this is exactly what they wanted in life. You.

In all of Winchester, nothing had more of a pull to them like you did. Not even Uhtred's command would keep them away from you now.

"Fuck," Finan practically spat, his hips quickening their pace, his long cock coming inside and outside of you, feeling the tightness grip harder and harder until he was nearly coming.

Sihtric equally had his way with you, hand in your hair simply moving you as he pleased, loving the way your tongue lolled out to welcome his cock.

"You are so beautiful, lady." Finan moaned, head facing the sky as if in prayer. It did not take much longer before he was coming undone within you, cursing as he realised he had selfishly come before both you and Sihtric.

Sihtric gave one final stroke before he too came straight down your throat, a choke coming from you as he waited before moving out of you. He decided that he wanted to take you next.

"Swallow."

His final command had you tightening around Finan, disturbing him from his moment of meditation with great force. Gritting his teeth, Finan barely managed to keep his composure as he finally slid from you, both men letting you slump underneath them.

Exhaustion hit you with a sharp thump, and your eyes began to close before you could say anything to the two men above you. Your eyes glazed over as Finan turned you onto your back to face them. They towered over you, Finan smiling, assuring you he was only trying to help when he let go of you for a moment, going to fetch a rag.

"When can we bind you to this bed? I want to keep you here forever."

[omgkatherine01]

Heart of Darkness: Chapter 2 - Freya Ragnarsdottir

Series Masterlist

Chapter 1, Chapter 3

Pairing: Osferth x female reader

Please comment, like and share

Two weeks.

It had been two weeks since you lost your father and brothers.

Your uncle was now the new lord of Bebbanburg, to your and your mother's disappointment.

For two weeks, you had been keeping yourself inside your room, not speaking to anyone except your mother. Your uncle tried to reach out to you, but you closed yourself from him and anyone else besides the woman who gave you life.

"I was told you still haven't return eating properly," your mother muttered, both of you sat on your bed one morning.

You shrugged, and looked at the handcraft figure in your hand. It was supposed to be a warrior figure, but in your eyes, it wasn't very good. Your big brother however, complimented your work, and asked you for one weeks ago, which brought a smile to your pouty face and you immediately went on to work on making one for him.

Did he died holding your gift? you asked yourself sadly, not realizing a tear slip down your cheek while staring down at the wooden figure until your mother brushed the tear away.

"I know, my love, I miss them as well," she said softly. You released a shaky breath and glanced at her before looking down. "I will go tell the cook to make us breakfast, we'll eat here together, alright?"

You shrugged, and your mother took it as an agreement. She left you alone.

--

"What would you do with the little lady, my lord?" Scallion, your uncle's close ally, asked him when they and Father Beocca were alone in the Great Hall.

"Nothing yet," your uncle Aelfric said, "She is only seven, she needs to grow before I'll marry her off to a lord."

Father Beocca noticed a small smirk appearing on Scallion's face, and he didn't like it at all. "And who do you think of marring her to?" Scallion asked.

"Don't know, I'll find someone," Aelfric said.

Beocca opened his mouth, as if you remind them he was there but a guard walked in, "Excuse me, my lord, but you have a visiter. He claims to be a messenger."

"Let him in," Aelfric said. A man walked in and Beocca tensed, recognising him as one of the Vikings.

Aelfric tilted his head, "I don't know you. You don't have the appearance of a messenger. And Ubba's payment's not yet due."

Beocca frowned, Ubba's payment's not yet due? Did he... His blood was boiling by this thought and new information.

"No, lord," the viking said, "I was a ship's master."

"Ah, well. I have no ships. I need no ship's master."

"I have news that you will want to hear," the Viking said. Aelfric raised an eyebrow, "Well."

"I would want something in return, lord," the Viking said. Aelfric scoffed as he turned away. "Not now, not quite. But perhaps we could continue to help each other."

"Perhaps," Aelfric shrugged.

"Two days south of here..." the viking started, "Is a rat with the man I used to serve. Until he banished me. He has a slave. He treats him well. This is a slave you're entitled to buy back, if you wish to."

Aelfric frowned and repeated, "Buy back?"

"He's your nephew," the Viking said, surprising the men. "Uhtred, lord. He lives."

Aelfric had a calm expression of his face, but Beocca knew now that he was angry that the young lord had survived. He had to get to him, but first, he had to get you out of the castle, he did not trust your uncle around you. He quietly stepped out without anyone noticing, he had to inform your mother what was happening.

--

You were watching the sun setting down from your window when your mother had returned to your room again, you turned and frowned when you noticed her expression.

"Mother?" you asked quietly, blinking when she peered outside and then quickly closed the door.

"Grab your cloak," she immediately said in a hash tone as she hurried toward your bed. You stood from your window seat and stepped forward, confused and worried when she grabbed your cloak and started to tie it around you.

"What is it?" you asked, "Are we going somewhere?"

"Yes, you are leaving this place," she said. You frowned again, not understanding, "Why? Where am I going? Does uncle taking me away?"

"No," she said, placing her hand on your cheek as she kneeled down, "You listen to me, never trust your uncle. You going with your brother to Winchester, you will be safe there."

"My brother?" you repeated. "Uhtred is alive," she said quietly, "Come." She took your hand as she stood up, and quickly moved to the door. You held your wooden figure on your left hand tightly, shocked by the information while your mother peered outside before pulling you out to the hall with her.

The two of you reached to the barn where Father Beocca was waiting with Uhtred's horse, which had returned alone that day Uhtred disappeared. A guard was by his side, and when he saw you coming in, he walked out to guard outside.

"Quickly," he said in a hush tone. You turned to your mother, looking up at her with a frown and tears in your eyes, "You not coming?"

"No, my love," she said softly and bend down to kiss your forehead, "I must stay here."

"But why?" you asked. "There's no time, my dear," Beocca said and looked at your mother, "I'm sorry, but you must go now before Aelfric will notice you not there to see him off."

Your mother nodded and looked at you again. She quickly pulled you into her arms, kissing your head, "My sweetheart," she muttered and pulled away, clearing your eyes and cheeks from your tears, "Be strong. Alright? Be strong."

You nodded, "I love you, mother," you muttered. "I love you too," she said and kissed your forehead again as she gently held your cheeks, "Tell your brother, that I love him as well. Alright?" You nodded quickly and sniffed as she pulled away from you.

With one last look at you, she turned and quickly left the barn. You turned to Beocca as he placed a small bag on the back of the horse and he turned to you. He placed his hands on your arms as he bend down, looking at you with a soft expression.

"It's alright, listen to me, carefully, alright?" he asked and you nodded. He pulled the hood of your cloak on your head, "I will be riding with your uncle to meet with your brother and the Danes that have him, you will ride from a distance, alright? You must not been seen."

You nodded quickly and he continued, "You will hid far from the trees in the forest. When we get Uhtred, he will ran to your direction, you two ride to Winchester. Uhtred knows where it is. You will ride there, and I will met you both there."

You nodded again, "All right," you said quietly. He lifted you up on the horse and handed you the reins. "Remember; follow from a distance."

You nodded and watched him leaving quickly.

--

"What if I'm against being ransomed?" Uhtred asked Ravn, the blind older Dane as he led him forward in the forest by the hand. The old man who was kind to the young boy since the day he was captured by him and his clan, gently held onto his hand and spoke, "Your family has discovered that you're still alive. And they wish for you to be returned. But they must pay."

Uhtred glanced back toward the leader, who he grew to like and look up to, "Pay Ragnar?"

"Ubba takes more than half," Ravn explained quietly, referring to the blond man with tattoo on the side of his face. "It's normal."

Uhtred gently let go of Ravn's hand and watched him step away. He frowned slightly, the only one he missed in his family was you. His little sister... and Uhtred hated to admit it, but he also missed your mother.

His step mother, who he never really tried to get along despite her kind words and protectiveness over him. He knew since he was little that Gytha wasn't his birth mother, and that his true mother died when he was a babe.

But she still viewed him like her own son.

Uhtred suddenly felt guilt thinking about the past. He should have been nicer, he should have called her 'mother' with more kinder tone, and be more of a son to her like she viewed him.

Uhtred never treated you coldly like he treated your mother, you were his sister, you both shared the same father, and he loved you since the moment you came into the world.

For two weeks that he been captured, he didn't try to escape and come back to you. He now felt like he had abandoned you.

You must now know that he was alive. He was worried that you thought that he had abandoned you.

He hoped not.

Uhtred forced a small smile when Father Beocca approached. "Uhtred," Beocca greeted with a smile. "They're treating you well?"

Uhtred nodded lightly, "I am fed, yes."

Beocca nodded, "Good, good. That's all we ask." He noticed something around the boy's neck, "What is that around your neck? Some symbol?"

"Oh, this?" he asked and lifted the necklace up, showing Thor's hammer that was gifted to him by Ravn's son, the leader, Ragnar Ravnsson, "They... they make me wear it."

"May I see it?" Beocca asked, looking at Ragnar who was leaning against a tree. With a nod, the priest approached. He took the necklace, and glanced behind him to see Aelfric speaking to Scallion, so he turned to the boy and spoke quietly, "Look, I will speak plainly, your uncle will kill you. Right, you cannot go back to Bebbanburg. You must escape. He wants to be the ealdorman. He wants to be the king, in fact, like the pathetic Egbert over there. A puppet king for his Danish masters. Your sister is waiting on the north side from here, behind you--don't look back." He stopped Uhtred from turning. "She can't go back too, she will be sold off when she will grow older. You two go to Wessex. King Aethelred, real king Aethelred... and his brother, the prince Alfred... they're good men, good Christian men--"

Ragnar stepped forward, "That's enough whispering in his ear, priest." Uhtred turned to him, breathing heavily. Beocca grabbed his arms, making him turn back, "Uhtred--"

"One more word, I'll have your ball bag for a purse," Ragnar threated calmly. "I'll meet you there," Beocca whispered before stepping back and speaking calmly, "That will not be necessary."

Ragnar watched him stepping away and looked down at the boy, noticing him staring at his uncle. "What did he say?"

"He... he asked if you were treating me well," he lied, glancing up at the man before stepping back, looking a little shaken up which Ragnar and his son noticed.

They looked at each other, knowing something was off. Uhtred glanced around, and finally spotted you before you moved away to hid.

His little sister.

Uhtred let out a soft shaky breath before he quickly turned away and looked at Ragnar and Ragnar the Younger to speak quietly, "I need to go for a moment to pee."

Ragnar clearly saw through him but didn't speak of it and instead looked at his son, "Go with him."

"I can go by myself," Uhtred said. "Not at this moment," Ragnar said as he shook his head a little. Uhtred hesitated but turned and walked away with Ragnar the Younger walking beside him.

The boy let out a soft sigh and nervously looked around as they walked a little far away from the group. "So, who is the little lady who is hiding around?" Ragnar the Younger asked, a little amused when the boy looked up at him worriedly.

"She's not in trouble," he said. "No, not from you," Uhtred muttered, "She will be if my uncle finds out she's here."

Ragnar the Younger hummed, "Well, then, bring her out. I won't tell and I won't bite." Uhtred looked up at him for a moment before looking around, "You can come out, y/n," he said softly.

You stepped out from behind one of the trees, leaving the horse farther away from where the three of you were at. You looked from the young man in hesitation to your brother. He nodded and gave you a small smile, as if he was scared you weren't happy to see him.

You walked closer quickly and jumped into his arms, hugging him tightly. Uhtred hugged you back tightly, closing his eyes in relief. After a moment you two pulled away from the hug, but you grabbed into his arm when he turned to the young man.

"That's my little sister, y/n," he said and glanced at you, "This is Ragnar the Younger. I was with him and his family all that time."

You looked up at Ragnar the Younger and took a step behind Uhtred to hid behind him when the young man kneeled down. "Do not fear me, I won't harm you," he said.

"Are you going to tell them I'm here?" you asked in a small voice, "Because if you will, I will be in trouble." He nodded, "All right then. Then I won't." You looked a little relief and he looked at Uhtred, "What did the priest say to you?"

"My uncle will kill me," he said, "He's not here to bring me back, he's going to kill me as soon as he will get his hands on me, and he will get rid of my sister. He can't find out she's here."

Ragnar the Younger looked from him to you, watching you lowering your gaze to your wooden figure in your hand. He held his hand out, "Can I see it?"

You hesitantly handed your wooden figure, and he recognized it since he saw Uhtred with one like this a few times. "That's a very nice warrior figure," he complimented, remembering Uhtred saying you had made one for him. "Who made it?"

"I did," you answered. Ragnar the Younger smiled a little, "That is very good. Perhaps you would make me one as well."

That actually made you smile a little. He handed the wooden figure back to you, and let out a breath before nodding to the side, "You see that bridge?"

You and Uhtred looked to where he nodded and looked at the bridge farther away with a pond under it. "Yes," you answered softly and looked back at the young man.

"Go there, and wait for us," he said. "Am I to go with you?" you asked a little nervous as you looked from your brother to him. "Perhaps," he said, "After I will speak to my father, I am sure he will speak up to stop the ransom."

"So, will I be able to come with my sister?" Uhtred asked, his voice sounded a little hopeful. Ragnar the Younger simply smirked, "Who knows. Come on." He stood up and looked at you, nodding to the bridge, "Off you go."

You looked at Uhtred and he nodded to you. You quickly moved up the small hill and turned to watch them walking back to the others. You turned and ran to get Uhtred's horse to the bridge.

Ragnar watched his son and Uhtred walking closer. Ragnar the Younger walked toward him while Uhtred stood by a Viking, glaring at his uncle.

"Father?" Ragnar the Younger spoke quietly as he leaned closer to him. With a hum, he spoke again, this time much quieter so no one could listen, "That lord is going to kill him." Ragnar glanced at his son and then away, listening. "His little sister is waiting by the bridge, she can't go back."

Ragnar the Younger moved away a little and turned back to the rest. As they watched the ransom in fold, Ragnar was looking between Uhtred and Aelfric.

"How much?" his uncle asked. "300," Ravn said, sitting next to Ubba. Aelfric looked at them, scoffing, "That is a ridiculous amount. How can a boy be worth 300 pieces of silver?"

"Because I say so," Ravn said. "Because he is a lord and an ealdorman." Aelfric shook his head a little, "No, he is a boy. I am the ealdorman of Bebbanburg. I carry the seal and the banner."

"That seal is my father's, which is now mine!" Uhtred said, glaring at him.

"You be silent," Ubba said, "You are for sale, nothing more."

"For ransom, lord," Ravn corrected. Ubba nodded, "That's what I said."

"My lords, I have given up land, horses," Aelfric said as he sat down, "I've offered a generous supply of food as well as my sword. All I ask in return is a fair price for my only nephew."

Uhtred shook his head a little. "What would you say is a fair price?" Ravn asked.

"I will offer 100 pieces of silver," Aelfric said. "200," Ravn said. "My allegiance and 100 pieces is surely a fair price," Aelfric said.

"It is not," Ravn said. "I will give 120 pieces of silver for the boy," Aelfric said. Ravn laughed softly and shook his head, "Not enough."

Aelfric looked down for a moment, "Very well." He looked at Ubba and Ravn, "200 pieces. I agree to your terms." Ravn seemed disappointed that he agreed, since he was found of the boy and deep down he didn't want Aelfric to get him back.

Ubba opened his mouth to agree with the deal, but then Ragnar bend down and whispered something to his ear. He moved away and Ubba looked at him, surprised by what he was giving up.

Ragnar nodded, and Ubba turned to Aelfric, raising an eyebrow, "The boy is sold to Earl Ragnar."

Aelfric frowned, shocked, "What?" Beocca turned to Uhtred in surprise, and frowned when he noticed a relief expression on the boy's face.

"Ransomed, lord," Ravn corrected but he did show he was glad Uhtred will be staying with him and his family.

Ubba nodded, "That's what I said. The matter is closed." He stood up and Aelfric did as well, "My lords, I have come a long way. I have offered my allegiance."

Ragnar stepped forward, "Which is why you're allowed to breathe. If you have an argument, it's with me now." They stared at each other for a long moment, and when Ragnar saw Aelfric backing down, he smirked and walked past him, "If business is done, we have ale to drink."

"And King Egbert needs to shit!" Ubba joked and laughed at his own joke. Ragnar stopped in front of Uhtred, who looked up at him with a small relief smile.

"Let's get your sister," he said quietly and ruffled the boy's hair as he walked past him.

You waited with Uhtred's horse by the bridge for a little bit until you heard horses approaching. You stood by the horse and hold tightly into the reins as you saw people approaching on horses.

Ragnar the Younger and your brother were one of them. Uhtred was riding with the man you recognized from before the battle, who seemed to be the leader.

"Hold," he said and the four people with him stopped their horses. Uhtred jumped down from the horse and rushed closer to you, giving you a bright smile.

"It's okay," he said, "We'll be safe now." He looked at his horse and patted it softly as the leader got off of his horse with Ragnar the Younger and another blonde man with a tattoo on the side of his face.

"What is this?" the blonde man asked, frowning down at you. The leader approached to you and your brother, and stared down at you for a few seconds before kneeling down in front of you.

"Your name?" he asked. You hesitated and glanced at your brother before back at the man, "Y/n..."

He nodded and looked at Uhtred, who was staring at him. It seemed that they both were speaking with each other with only their eyes, and then, the man looked at you, and gave you a small smile, "Let's go home."

You looked at your brother who smiled brightly again, and looked at you, nodding. He stepped to his horse and got on it. You looked at the man as he got up and he offered you his hand. You hesitatingly placed your small hand on his larger hand, and let him led you to his horse.

It was a beautiful dark horse, and when you reached your hand up to it, it lowered its face so you can touch its nose. The man lifted you up to sit on his horse.

"Ragnar, you taking another?" the blonde man asked, raising an eyebrow. "She shouldn't be living apart from her brother," the man, Ragnar, said and got on the horse, sitting behind you.

"If that lord will find out the sister is with you, then what?" the man asked. "That won't happen, because she will be given a different name," Ragnar said and with that, the horse started to walk off, with Uhtred and Ragnar the Younger followed.

--

"Mother, they back!"

You lifted your gaze forward when you heard a girl calling happily. When you, Uhtred, Ragnar, Ragnar the Younger and the old man who was blind and named Ravn reached to the village, to one of the houses, two girls were outside playing when they saw you.

A woman walked outside and smiled. She looked at Uhtred as he got off of his horse and smiled at him as he moved closer. The two girls rushed closer to him and embraced him, which surprised him.

"You're back too!"

Ragnar got off of his horse before turning to you. He lifted you up from the horse and placed you down on your feet. He then led you closer to the woman, the two girls and Uhtred.

Ragnar the Younger helped his grandfather off of his horse and the two walked closer. The woman kissed Ragnar's cheek before looking down at you, giving you a kind smile.

"Hello," the young girl told you, giving you a smile, which you returned with a small shy one. "This is y/n, Uhtred's little sister," Ragnar said and looked at the woman, his wife, "And as from now on, they both will be living with us. As family."

She nodded slowly, agreeing with it. "We going to have to give her a different name," Ragnar the Younger reminded as he nodded to you, "Just in case their uncle won't find out she is here."

The woman kneeled down and reached for your arm, gently pulling you over to her. "I'm sure we'll find something that will fit you," she said softly as she brushed your hair. Her touch was soft and motherly, which made you think of your mother. "Brida, please get a fur coat for her."

The young girl nodded and ran into the house. "This is my wife, Sigrid," Ragnar said, and nodded to the other girl who greeted you, "And my daughter, Thyra."

Thyra smiled at you again as Brida ran outside. She put the fur around your shoulders to keep you warm. "Thank you," you muttered softly.

Sigrid watched you with a soft smile, "I had a sister when I was little," she suddenly said softly, "Her name was Freya."

"It's a pretty name," you said. Sigrid nodded a little, "Yes. She was also pretty as her name."

"Freya Ragnarsdottir," Ragnar said with a nod, "How would you like that?" You glanced at Sigrid to see if was alright, and she smiled at you. "I think it suits you well," she said softly. You gave her a small smile and looked at Uhtred, who smiled back at you.