#finan oneshot

[ealdormanink]

Can I request one with Ivar? 💓

You, daughter of a great king, are married to him and the seer told you you will give him many children and Ivar tells you he wants to marry a second wife and you and him were together since you were only teens and you are not really happy about that idea that there maybe will be another woman .

I could totally understand if you dont want to write it 💓

Prophecies and Promises

Ivar the boneless x female reader!

Thank you for the request! I hope you like this oneshot. Content includes angst, drama, and themes of betrayal. Not exactly a happy ending, you've been warned!

The winter wind howled through Kattegat, carrying with it the salt of the sea and the promise of snow. From the great hall's balcony, (Y/N) watched the first light of dawn paint the fjord in shades of gray and silver. Her fingers traced the wooden railing, feeling the familiar grooves where she and Ivar had carved their initials years ago, back when they were barely more than children.

The sound of movement behind her made her turn. Ivar was there, dragging himself across the floor with the same fierce determination he showed in everything he did. Even now, after all these years, her heart still skipped a beat at the sight of him.

"You're up early," he said, pulling himself onto the bench near the wall. His blue eyes, sharp as always, studied her face.

"I couldn't sleep." (Y/N) pulled her furs tighter around her shoulders. "The gods were restless in my dreams."

Ivar's expression shifted, almost imperceptibly. There was something in his eyes she hadn't seen before – a mixture of guilt and resolution that made her stomach tighten with unease.

"We need to talk," he said, patting the space beside him on the bench.

Those words, spoken so softly, carried the weight of an ax falling. (Y/N) knew, with the same certainty that guided ravens to battlefields, that whatever came next would change everything.

The silence stretched between them like a bowstring pulled taut. (Y/N) remained standing, her knuckles white against the dark fur of her cloak.

"The Jarl Eriksson will arrive tomorrow," Ivar said, his voice steady. "With his daughter, Sigrid."

"The shield-maiden?" The words felt like ice on (Y/N)'s tongue. Tales of Sigrid Eriksdottir's prowess in battle had reached even Kattegat's shores. Young, fierce, and above all, from a powerful family whose alliance could strengthen their hold on the northern territories.

"Yes." Ivar's fingers drummed against his leg brace. "I intend to make her my second wife."

The world didn't stop. The waves below continued their endless dance against the shore, and somewhere in the distance, a gull cried out. Yet (Y/N) felt as if she'd been plunged into the deepest part of the fjord, the cold seeping into her bones.

"I see." Her voice sounded foreign to her own ears. "And when did you decide this?"

"It's not about decisions, it's about necessity." Ivar moved forward, his arms tensing as he shifted his weight. "We need the alliance with Jarl Eriksson. His ships, his men—"

"Don't." (Y/N) turned to face him fully, her father's royal blood burning in her veins. "Don't pretend this is just about alliances. How many years have we been married, Ivar? How many winters have I shared your bed?"

"Seven winters." His jaw clenched. "Seven winters without an heir."

The truth of it struck harder than any physical blow. (Y/N) remembered the Seer's words, spoken in the darkness of his dwelling: 'Your womb will give Ivar the Boneless more sons than any king before him.' She had clung to that prophecy through every moon that passed without a child quickening in her belly.

"You don't believe in the Seer's words anymore," she said. It wasn't a question.

"I believe in what I can see." Ivar's voice hardened. "I believe in securing my legacy, in strengthening Kattegat. You're a king's daughter, (Y/N). You understand the weight of duty."

"Duty?" She laughed, but there was no warmth in it. "Was it duty when you taught me to throw an ax? When we would sneak away from the great hall to watch the stars? When you promised me I would be the only queen you'd ever need?"

Ivar's expression flickered, a shadow of the boy he'd been passing across his face. "We were children then."

"We were in love then," (Y/N) corrected. She moved away from the balcony, her steps measured and precise. "Perhaps you're right. Perhaps we were children. But I remember every promise you made, Ivar Ragnarsson, and so do the gods."

She paused at the doorway, her hand resting on the carved wooden frame. "I hope Sigrid Eriksdottir brings you everything you wish for."

The great hall was beginning to stir as she walked through it, servants preparing for the day ahead. None dared meet her eye. News traveled fast in Kattegat, and already they must know what was coming. The proud princess who had failed to give their king an heir would soon share her crown with another.

The arrival of Jarl Eriksson's longships painted a bold stripe of red and black across the harbor. (Y/N) watched from the steps of the great hall as Sigrid Eriksdottir strode onto Kattegat's docks, her golden hair braided with leather and bones, shield strapped to her back. Every inch a shield-maiden, every step that of a future queen.

The crowd parted for her like waves before a ship's prow. (Y/N) felt the weight of every gaze shifting between them – the two queens, present and future, as different as fire and ice. Where Sigrid wore leather and steel, (Y/N)'s dress spoke of her royal upbringing, its deep blue fabric threaded with silver like the night sky.

"Welcome to Kattegat." (Y/N)'s voice carried across the courtyard, steady despite the storm in her heart. This was the game of queens, and she had learned it at her father's knee long before she'd learned to love Ivar.

Sigrid's bow was perfectly measured – respect for a queen, but not submission. "You honor us with your welcome, Queen (Y/N)." Her Norse was clear and sharp, like the ax at her hip. "The tales of Kattegat's beauty do not do it justice."

Behind her, Ivar watched them both, his eyes calculating. He had always loved games of power, but this was no game on a hnefatafl board. These were real pieces, real lives, real hearts being moved across the board.

The feast that night was a blur of mead and music. (Y/N) sat in her place of honor, watching as Sigrid captivated the hall with tales of her raids along the Saxon coast. The warrior-woman's laugh rang true and deep, and more than once, (Y/N) caught Ivar's gaze lingering on her.

It wasn't until the moon had risen high that the first wave of nausea hit her. (Y/N) gripped the edge of the table, her knuckles white against the wood. The smell of roasted meat, usually so appealing, suddenly turned her stomach.

"My queen?" Her handmaiden, Astrid, leaned close. "Are you unwell?"

"I need air," (Y/N) whispered, rising from her seat. Few noticed her departure – all eyes were on Sigrid, who was now demonstrating sword techniques with one of Ivar's warriors.

In the quiet of her private chambers, (Y/N) pressed her forehead against the cool stone wall. This wasn't the first time she'd felt ill this week. Or the week before. But she'd been too consumed by Ivar's announcement to notice the pattern.

"My queen." Astrid's voice was soft behind her. "When was your last bleeding?"

The question hung in the air like smoke. (Y/N) closed her eyes, counting back the moons. Her hand drifted to her stomach, and for the first time, she felt it – the slight firmness that hadn't been there before.

A laugh bubbled up from her throat, bitter and sweet all at once. The gods had a cruel sense of humor. After seven years of waiting, of hoping, of praying – now, when Ivar had already decided to take another wife, the Seer's prophecy chose to fulfill itself.

"Tell no one," she commanded Astrid, turning to face her oldest friend and servant. "Not a soul."

Astrid nodded, understanding darkening her eyes. "What will you do?"

(Y/N) looked out the window, toward the distant mountains where the eagles soared free. "What any mother would do to protect her child." Her hand remained on her stomach, where Ivar's heir grew stronger with each passing day. "I will ensure no one can ever use this child as a pawn in their games."

The next fortnight passed in a blur of preparations. Sigrid's presence in Kattegat grew stronger with each passing day, her influence spreading like roots through fertile soil. The warriors admired her strength, the common folk her easy manner, and Ivar... Ivar's eyes followed her with an intensity that cut deeper than any blade.

(Y/N) watched it all from behind a carefully crafted mask, one hand often resting unconsciously on her still-flat stomach. The morning sickness she hid behind closed doors, the fatigue she blamed on poor sleep. Only Astrid knew the truth, helping her conceal the signs that would soon become impossible to hide.

The night of the betrothal feast arrived with the first real snow of winter. The great hall blazed with firelight, the air thick with the smell of roasted meat and sweet mead. (Y/N) sat in her place of honor, watching as Ivar announced his intention to take Sigrid as his second wife. The hall erupted in cheers, horns raised in celebration.

"A toast!" Sigrid's father boomed, his voice carrying over the crowd. "To the alliance of our houses, to strong sons and victories to come!"

The words struck (Y/N) like a physical blow. Her hand tightened around her untouched horn of mead, watching as Ivar raised his own cup. Their eyes met across the hall, and for a moment, she saw something flicker in his gaze – regret, perhaps, or memory. But then Sigrid leaned close to whisper something in his ear, and the moment shattered like ice in spring.

"It's time," (Y/N) whispered to Astrid, who stood faithfully behind her chair. The preparations were complete, set in motion days ago with the quiet efficiency that had made (Y/N) such an effective queen.

Two trusted guards – men who had served her father and come with her to Kattegat – waited by the stables. A small boat was ready at a secluded dock, far from the usual harbor. Everything she needed was already packed, loaded under the cover of darkness.

"Wait three days," she instructed Astrid, pressing a small wooden pendant into her hand – a token that would prove the message came from (Y/N). "Then tell him what I said. Not before."

Astrid's eyes shone with tears she dared not shed. "The gods go with you, my queen."

(Y/N) stood, her movements unhurried and dignified. No one paid much attention as she left the feast – it was common for the first wife to retire early when celebrations involved the second. Outside, the snow fell thick and silent, covering her tracks almost as soon as they were made.

At the stables, she mounted her horse with practiced ease, adjusting her heavy cloak around her. The child within her was still too small to hinder her movements, but she could feel its presence like a warm flame in her belly, a secret strength.

"We ride for the eastern path," she told her guards. "Through the merchant routes, where the traders won't question another group of travelers."

As they rode away from Kattegat, (Y/N) didn't look back. The city that had been her home for seven years disappeared into the snowy darkness behind her. She thought of Ivar, still celebrating in the great hall, unaware that his firstborn child was already slipping beyond his reach.

Three days would pass before Astrid would deliver her message. Three days before Ivar would understand what he had lost. By then, (Y/N) would be far beyond his reach, carrying with her the heir he so desperately wanted – the first of the many children the Seer had promised, though not in the way anyone had expected.

Three days later, the great hall of Kattegat stood silent in the gray light of dawn. Ivar sat upon his throne, fingers drumming against the carved armrest, his mood as dark as the circles under his eyes. The celebrations had ended, but something else had ended too – something he couldn't quite name until Astrid stepped forward, clutching a wooden pendant he recognized immediately.

"Speak," he commanded, his voice hoarse. Three days since anyone had seen (Y/N), three days of searching, of questions met with silence.

Astrid's chin lifted, her voice clear despite her fear. "The queen bade me tell you this: The gods have already chosen the mother of your children long ago. The Seer did not lie."

The words hung in the air like smoke. Ivar's face remained still, but his knuckles whitened against the throne's wood. One heartbeat. Two. Then understanding crashed over him like a wave, and his roar of rage echoed through the hall. The drinking horn in his hand flew across the room, shattering against the wall.

"When?" he demanded, dragging himself from his throne with dangerous speed. "When did she know?"

Astrid stepped back, but held her ground. "I cannot say, my king."

"Cannot or will not?" His eyes blazed with a fury that had made warriors tremble.

"She carries your firstborn," Astrid said softly, delivering the final blow. "The child the Seer promised. The first of many."

Ivar's laugh was hollow, breaking like ice in spring. Of course. Of course the gods would play such a cruel joke. All his plans, his calculations, his political maneuverings – undone by the very thing he'd wanted most.

"Find her," he ordered the guards. "Search every path, every village, every—"

"She's beyond your reach now," Astrid interrupted, earning gasps from those present. "Three days' journey ahead, on routes you don't know, toward a kingdom that will protect its princess."

Ivar's hand shot out, grabbing Astrid's arm. "You helped her."

"I served my queen," she replied, unflinching. "As I swore to do."

Miles away, (Y/N) stood at the bow of a merchant ship, the wind pulling at her hair as they sailed east. Her hand rested on her stomach, where the heir to Kattegat grew stronger each day. The Seer's prophecy would come true, but not in Kattegat's halls. Her children – Ivar's children – would be born free from the politics of second wives and power plays, raised in her father's kingdom, where no one could use them as pawns in a game of thrones.

Behind her, Kattegat disappeared into the horizon, taking with it seven years of love, of promises, of a future that could have been. Ahead lay the unknown, but (Y/N) stood straight and proud, every inch her father's daughter. She was more than Ivar's wife now – she was a mother protecting her child, and in that role, she was as fierce as any shield-maiden.

The wind carried the sound of seabirds and the salt spray of the sea, but not the echo of Ivar's rage as it shook Kattegat's walls. Not the sound of his fist against wood as he realized what his ambition had cost him. Not the bitter truth that his firstborn child – the heir he had so desperately wanted – would grow up never knowing their father's name.

In the end, the gods had given him exactly what he asked for, but taken away everything he truly had.

[icarusignite]

Hey Author, I wanted to ask if you could maybe write a story about ! Sihtric x reader! Could you perhaps write something where the reader is the younger sister of Ragnar, Uhtred and Thyra. In sihtric's age.

Maybe she could have met him in the forest when the two were children and became best friends from that day on. Nobody knew about it because the families are no longer good. Years later, when Kjartan kills the parents of the reader and Uhtred. the reader goes with him and Brida. She is younger than Uhtred and brida maybe Uhtred could teach his little sister to fight and she will be a shieldmaid maybe even the best!!!

When sihtric joins uhtred, the reader is very happy. Sihtric loves the reader, but thinks she would never want anything from him, so he marries his wife from the series

The relationship between the reader and sihtric becomes very bad due to the married

The reader is angry because she doesn't like his wife, she’s jealous and she is very hurt. And she makes him feel her anger!!! Maybe we could have a little fight with his wife, that would be cool.

At some point I don't know how they could confess their feelings for each other.

I love drama in story’s like that. I hope you like it too and it gave you ideas to write it. Maybe you could say if you write it.

Thank you, your reader 🫶❤️

#drama #brokenheart #anger #bestfriends #love

I am so jealous that she is his wife. I just don't like her😑

I have to put my cell phone away, otherwise it will be broken later

I wrote a similar request to another author, but I thought I could also ask another one, hope it doesn't bother you! 🫶

Heyyy finally got this done. It is longer than I expected lol cuz I wanted to give them a shared background story lol. I tried to add all the requested components but his wife just isn't his wife yet so he was planning to marry her but then ofc he changes his mind after the reader rages at him. I love angry confessions lol.

Cheers, hope you enjoy the story 🫶

Word Count: 4.8k | AO3

In the heart of the forest, the sun shone through the canopy of leaves and the birds sang a merry tune. A group of children ran through the underbrush, their laughter echoing through the trees.

"I saw a wolf, Uhtred, I saw it, it had sharp teeth and yellow eyes!" Brida shouted excitedly, brandishing the branch she held in her hand as a pretend sword.

"Brida, Uhtred, don't let them get to me," Thyra shouted from the platform the children had built in the trees. "And protect my little sister!"

"I am a warrior like Father and Young Ragnar. I don't need Uhtred to protect me!" you shouted back at Thyra, who only rolled her eyes at your childish antics. 

"Father and Young Ragnar are much bigger than you, you cannot possibly be like them!" Uhtred laughed.

You crossed your arms and glared at him until he raised his hands placatingly.

"Now then, what shall we do about the wolf?" you grinned. "I say we skin him and gift his pelt to the lady of the hall."

Your hair whipped around your face as you fought your imaginary foes, eyes bright with determination and a fierce sense of bravery. You took careful steps, your feet moving in sync with your makeshift sword, as you circled around the supposed wolves who were coming for your sister. Suddenly you heard the sound of branches snapping and twigs crunching underfoot, signalling the approach of another person to your little corner of the forest. You instinctively raised your branch in front of you, ready to defend yourself and your friends against any potential enemies. 

"Did you see that?" Uhtred's voice wavered and everyone's necks turned in the direction the noise originated from. 

A figure stepped out from behind the trees, making Uhtred and Brida freeze. 

"Uhtred?" Thyra's panicked voice came from her spot in the trees. "What is happening?"

"Stay up there!" he warned, grabbing your hand along with Brida's and pulling back a few steps. 

 "It's Sven, Kjartan's son," Brida breathed.

"Sven?" Thyra's voice shook.

"He won't hurt you," Uhtred reassured.

You pushed Brida and Uhtred forward, "But he'll kill you, so go!" 

"What, we're not leaving you!"

"And I will not leave my sister. Just go, please."

Several other young boys, Sven's friends presumably, tore out of their hiding places, giving chase to Brida and Uhtred as they sprinted away. One of the larger boys made his way toward the tree Thyra was in. You ran after him, hoping to get to him before he reached your sister. You tackled him to the ground but he easily threw you off to the side before going to haul Thyra out of her hiding spot and toward Sven.

"Don't touch her. Don't you dare touch her!" you shouted, and another boy grabbed you by the hair and yanked your head upward.

"Shut your yapping mouth or you'll be next bitch," he murmured into your ear.

Thyra whimpered as Sven cornered her against a tree, sword in hand. 

"Uhtred! Uhtred!" she wailed and it made your heart race. 

You knew Sven was going to do something to her, you could see it in the smirk he sent your way just before he reached forward and ripped the top half of Thyra's dress off her shoulders. A broken sob escaped her mouth and she squeezed her eyes shut, trying to make herself small. The sight set your nerves on fire. With an animalistic screech, you headbutted the boy who was holding on to you. When you slammed your head against his nose, you heard a satisfying crunch and he howled in pain as blood gushed down his face. You gave another holler before you ran and threw your entire weight onto Sven, forcing him away from your sister and managing to knock him onto the ground.  You watched out of the corner of your eye as Thyra fled the scene, screaming for Uhtred and Brida to come to your aid. One of Sven's friends pulled your small frame off him easily, and dragged you deeper into the forest, pinning you against a tree with his arm across your neck, suffocating you. You twisted in his hold and kicked him between the legs, making him drop you so that you could crawl away. Sven was right there though, and he grabbed your jaw, turning your head so that your eyes met his. He was several years older than you and now you were frightened. 

"Hmm, you're not as pretty as your sister, but I suppose you'll do," he snickered.

You closed your teeth around his arm, biting down until you tasted blood. He swore and when he went to pull you off, you drew back to punch him. And then you were raining blows down frantically upon him before he had a chance to get up. His hand scrambled around for his sword and brought it up in a deadly arc across your face. You flinched at the burning sting and he used it to his advantage in order to throw you off him. He stood there frozen for a moment, just watching your crouching form on the floor, your hand pressed tightly to your cheek as you took in deep shuddering breaths and blood seeped from between your fingers. Perhaps he then remembered who your father was because he turned and ran, his cruel friends following close behind. 

"Are you...are you alright?" came a timid voice after a while, and it made you jump. 

"Who-Who's there?"

You blinked through teary eyes to spot a young boy around your age step forward from behind a nearby tree. He looked at you with concern, his eyes taking in your injury.

"Are you okay?" he asked again softly.

You shook your head, fresh tears streaming down your face. You were terrified, hurt, and you couldn't quite remember the way home so you were also lost. 

The little boy took a step closer, his eyes reassuring, "Don't worry, I'll help you."

You cringed away from him, "Who are you."

"I am Sihtric. I won't hurt you."

"Can you help me find my way back home, I don't remember the way," you whimpered.

Sihtric took your hand and started to lead you out of the forest. You clung to his hand tightly as he led you through the forest. You were still scared, but somehow his presence brought you a sense of comfort and safety. As you emerged from the dense cluster of trees, you could see your home in the distance. Your heart leaped with relief, and you began to quicken your pace, Sihtric keeping pace with you, never once letting go of your hand. As you drew closer, you saw both your parents standing at the door looking out anxiously. When your mother caught sight of you, her eyes lit up and she rushed towards you, scooping you up into her arms. You winced, your left hand still pressed up against your face. She let out a gasp and carefully pried your hand away, and showed the angry red line, that ran from your cheekbone to your chin, to your father. Earl Ragnar swore loudly before taking up his sword and leaving the house in a fury to confront Kjartan and his son, already having been told the story of what happened by the other children. 

"Is-is Thyra okay?" you whispered to your mother, making her smile affectionately.

"Oh my darling girl, look at the state of you, and you're still worried for your older sister. Thyra is perfectly fine, she just had a bit of a fright, now let's get you inside and cleaned up hmm?"

Sihtric lingered outside your door, uncertain of what to do. Your mother noticed him standing there and approached him, still clutching you in her arms.

"Thank you for bringing my daughter home," she said, her voice kind. "You're a very brave young boy."

Sihtric just shrugged, looking a little embarrassed, "It was nothing, I'm just glad she's okay."

As he turned to leave, you grabbed his hand. 

"Wait," you said. "Will I see you again?"

"If you like...?" he gazed up at your mother in hesitation. 

Your mother nodded, her lips turning upward, "You are welcome here anytime."

You grinned shyly, the memory of your adventure already fading into the background, "We can explore the forest together then, just like real warriors."

With a wave goodbye, Sihtric turned and disappeared back into the woods, leaving you with a newfound sense of wonder and the excitement that comes with making a new friend. From that day forward, Sihtric became one of your closest companions, spending endless afternoons exploring the forest and getting into all sorts of adventures. You always looked out for each other, and the bond you forged that day in the woods never wavered. Even though his father had been banished by yours, he continued to find ways to meet with you in the forest, a place where he didn't have to be Sihtric Kjartansson, a bastard child of Kjartan the Cruel. He was just Sihtric, your friend, and perhaps more, judging by the lingering glances you both often exchanged.

This continued up until that fateful day when your entire world was burnt to the ground. You had lost everyone, your parents, your grandfather, and your beloved sister. Your older brother Ragnar the Younger had been away and you felt yourself all alone in the world, that is until Uhtred and Brida took you in. Uhtred felt a strong sense of responsibility for you, being one of the last surviving members of the family that had so lovingly raised him. He had been unable to save Thyra from being taken but he swore to himself that he'd never let harm come to you. 

As the years went by, your childhood wish came true. You had indeed become a fierce warrior, and Uhtred made sure that you knew how to protect yourself and others. You fought in the Battle of Edington against Skorpa and made a reputation for yourself, but the young boy with whom you had spent your childhood days remained a fond memory you found yourself often reminiscing. 

______________

It was in King Guthred's camp in Cumberland where Sihtric finally found you again. He had been sent there to infiltrate the camp and abduct Uhred but when his band of spies attacked, you were the first one there to save your brother, along with Hild, Halig, and Clapa. He had recognized you immediately, the fierce young woman with sharp piercing eyes reminded him of the little girl in the forest whom his half-brother had maimed. However, when you first saw him, you had only looked at him with disdain. He was just another miscreant to you, sent to harm your brother, and you could not imagine him as your childhood companion. He felt his heart sink at that, at the malice in your eyes, at the fact that you did not seem to remember him at all. 

Once he had sworn his allegiance to Uhtred, he made his way to the great hall, where you sat conversing with Gisela. He wanted to talk to you, to hear you speak. Gisela caught sight of his yearning gaze on you and gave him a knowing look. She excused herself and left you sitting there all alone, giving Sihtric an opportunity to take her spot. He settled himself beside you, taking a moment to map out the planes of your face. He had waited years for this moment, to see you again, but now that it was happening, he was unsure how to proceed.

You looked at him and raised an unimpressed eyebrow, "I hear that you will fight for Uhtred now?"

Sihtric nodded.

"You better not betray him, or I'll stick a knife in your throat while you sleep."

A laugh burst out of him and he looked at you with soft eyes, "You are exactly as I remembered."

"Am I now?"

"Do you not remember me?"

You sighed, "Of course, I remember you. How could I ever forget?"

"Well the way you were looking at me like you wanted to take my head off, certainly didn't feel like you remembered me."

"You know you did try to hurt my brother."

"Right...I'm sorry for that by the way. You have my word, I will never betray him."

You twirled your dagger between deft fingers, "I'll hold you to that."

Sihtric laughed again, "Gods, I've missed you."

Your heart skipped a beat. You had always felt something for him but never dared to act on it.

"You did?" you asked, surprised.

He nodded, "I thought about you all the time, wondering where you were and what you were doing. If you were well. And then I heard the stories, of your brother's victories, and they always spoke of his brave sister who fought beside him."

You felt your heart swell with happiness. For the rest of the day, you and Sihtric continued to converse, your exchanges growing more relaxed as you fell back into the familiar comfort of knowing each other. You both shared stories of what you had been doing since you last saw each other.

Sihtric hesitated for a moment, then gathered up his courage to ask you the question that had been weighing on his mind ever since you had been separated, "Are you perhaps with someone now?"

"Why, are you asking because you're interested?" you gave him a playful smirk.

Sihtric's cheeks flushed red as he stumbled over his words, "I... well... I mean... that is to say..."

"Relax, I'm just messing with you. And gods no, me with someone? What an absurd idea. Although... I might be open to offers."

You winked at him.

His eyes widened in surprise and he cleared his throat nervously, "I, uh, I wasn't... I didn't mean..."

"My brother does enough of that for the both of us. Someone's gotta stay sensible and keep him out of trouble, especially since Brida isn't here to do it anymore."

You chuckled at his discomfort and reached out to touch his arm. 

Relief washed over him, and he smiled shyly, "That's good to hear."

You shoved his shoulder, "Good to hear? I am glad my lack of companions brings you such joy Sihtric."

"That is not what I meant and you know it."

"Oh really, so what did you mean then?"

You bat your eyelashes playfully and he rolls his eyes. 

"You haven't changed one bit."

"Perfection doesn't need to change Sihtric."

"Oh very funny."

What he didn't say out loud was that you were indeed perfect. To him at least. He had spent the past few years of his life missing you and he couldn't bear the thought of losing you again. He kept his admiration to himself as he listened to you speak, feeling a deep yearning in his chest. He wanted nothing more than to tell you how he felt, to take you in his arms and never let go. But he was afraid. Afraid of ruining the friendship he had just rekindled. Afraid of the disappointment he would feel if you rejected him. He wondered if you knew how he felt. Did you have any idea of the effect you had on him? He doubted it. After all, you had been children when you had last seen each other. Maybe you had moved on and found someone else. Maybe you didn't even remember him the way he remembered you.

As the next three years went by, you fell into an easy routine with Sihtric. He was part of Uhtred's inner circle and you were his beloved sister so the two of you were seldom separated. Your teasing banter and friendly competition entertained everyone in the group and soon they were all making bets regarding which one of you would be bold enough to confess to the other. The feelings you two had for one another were obvious to everyone, everyone except you and Sihtric it seemed. Even your brother often sent teasing smiles your way when he paired you with Sihtric for tasks. Perhaps this was why the entire group was flabbergasted when Sihtric asked for Uhtred's blessing to marry. 

Uhtred had mentally prepared himself for Sihtric to eventually ask for your hand. He would ask you for your opinion of course and if you were agreeable, he would have been more than happy to bless the union. 

"Who is it that you wish to marry Sihtric?" he raised an eyebrow.

Finan sniggered behind him, sure that his companion would utter your name. You were all on the road back to Winchester and it had been a dull journey so far so he was curious at this new turn of events. You had to admit, you found your heart racing at his request as well. You held your breath, not daring to hope. 

"Sidgeflaed, Lord," Sihtric replied.

"Sidgeflaed? The whore in Winchester you've been spending a lot of time with lately."

"She says she loves me, Lord."

Finan snorts and Sihtric squared his shoulders defensively.

"I swear, she says she loves me!"

"She would. Sihtric she's a whore," Finan chuckled. "What she loves is your silver."

The entire group burst out into laughter.

Sihtric kept his attention on your brother, "I wish to marry her. She says she loves me and I love her."

Uhtred noticed your rigid form out of the corner of your eye. Your knuckles were white from how hard you were gripping your horse's reigns and your jaw was clenched tightly. He could tell that something was bothering you and he had a feeling he knew exactly what it was.

"I will speak to Gisela when we arrive at Winchester and then perhaps I will let you marry your girl. But in the meantime, you are to give her no more of your silver."

You felt a pang of jealousy and sadness at his words. He had chosen someone else. You thought that perhaps now since you had been reunited, he might've chosen you. You kept your emotions in check long enough to flash Sihtric a strained congratulatory smile, but inside you struggled to hold back tears. And then your sadness turned to anger, and you couldn't help but feel a sense of betrayal. How could he marry someone else when you had loved him all along? You wanted to scream at him and ask him why, you wanted to beg him not to marry this other girl, you wanted to run away and never see him again, you wanted to see him every day of your life. Instead, you kept a placid smile on your face and once you all reached your destination, you were the first one to bolt home, leaving your brother to deal with your horse. 

Gisela looked up in surprise when you burst through the door and rushed to your room, the door slamming behind you. Once you were in the private confines of your chambers, you let the tears flow freely. A few moments later, there was a soft knock on the door. You quickly wiped your tears and tried to compose yourself as your brother's wife, entered the room. She had been there for you ever since she married Uhtred, almost like a second mother. 

"Oh, my darling, what's wrong?" she asked gently, placing her arm around your shoulder.

You sniffed morosely, "Nothing, I'm fine."

"Well, you don't look fine."

"It's really nothing. I am just being immature, it's no big deal."

Gisela's lips turned upward as she ran her fingers through your hair, "I have two kids under the age of seven. I think I can handle immature."

You just shook your head and leaned against her, allowing her to pull you into a tight embrace, her comforting scent calming you down. Just then, someone cleared their throat loudly and Gisela looked up to see her husband smiling down at her.

"Am I interrupting something?" Uhtred asked.

She shook her head, "No, your sister is just upset, but she refuses to tell me why. Perhaps you can shed some light on this matter?"

"No, you can't tell her. She's going to think I'm being childish," you whined from the crook of her neck.

Uhtred sighed in fond exasperation, "Sitric has asked for my permission to marry."

Gisela's brow wrinkled in confusion. Shouldn't you have been happy if that was the case? She had watched you become close to him over time and she knew how fond you were of him. 

"To marry someone else," Uhtred clarified.

Her eyes widened in understanding as she rubbed soothing circles on your back, "It's okay love. It's okay to be upset. You are a strong and resilient woman and you can get through this." 

"Shall I refuse him?" your brother asked, making you shake your head frantically.

"No, I am just being selfish. I want him to be happy, and if... if that other girl is the one he loves, then I will try and be happy for them. I don't want to get in his way."

"If you say so."

After Uhtred left you alone with his wife, you wrapped your arms around her once more.

"Thank you, Gisela. You're always so kind to me."

Gisela smiled at you warmly, "Of course, my dear. That's what family is for."

Over the next few days, you made it your priority to avoid Sihtric at all costs, going out of your way so that your paths didn't cross, and when meeting him was inevitable, you made sure that you interacted with him as little as possible. Your tone when addressing him was cold and clipped, only saying what was necessary. It was obvious to everyone that you were trying to distance yourself from him and eventually even Sihtric picked up on your strange behaviour.

He had been trying to find a chance to talk to you alone ever since his first announcement regarding his matrimonial plans. He sensed the strained tension that lingered in the air whenever you were around him, and it filled him with a sense of despair. He was doing this all for you and now you wouldn't even look at him. He thought that by marrying someone else, he would be able to take his mind off you. He didn't want to push you into something you did not want and ruin your friendship by confessing his feelings but now it seemed that he had only made things worse. He had to make things right again somehow. As luck would have it, he spotted you walking down the street alone one day. He called out your name, hurrying to catch up to you. 

When you turned around and saw him coming towards you, you tried to quicken your pace, hoping to avoid him, but he was much too fast. He grabbed your arm and pulled you into a nearby alleyway, away from prying eyes. You aggressively yanked your arm away from him and glared. 

"What are you doing, Sihtric?" 

"I had to talk to you," he responded, his voice low and urgent. "You've been avoiding me, and I need to know why."

"I have no idea what you're talking about," your voice was flat as you fixed your eyes on something over his shoulder, avoiding eye contact. 

"Damnit would you at least look at me when I'm speaking to you."

"No."

"Why are you acting like this? Would you please talk to me."

"Just leave me alone Sihtric. Go spend time with that whore you've been humping. You should get to know your future wife some more," you spat out.

Sihtric flinched at the venom in your words. Your entire body was tensed and you blinked rapidly a few times as if to hold back tears.

"I can't leave you alone," he said, his voice rising. "You're my friend. I care about you. I need to know what's going on."

"I am not your friend, don't you dare call me your friend. You do not care about me at all!"

"How can you say that? What have I done? Would you at least tell me?"

Your face hardened, "If I was really your friend, you would have told me about Sidgeflaed. You never even mentioned her."

"Is that what this is about then? You're upset that I told your brother before I told you? If that's the case then I'm sorry you had to find out like that," he approached slowly, arms reaching toward you.

You shoved him away, "You don't get it, do you? You still don't get it."

"Then explain it to me... please."

"You're marrying her! How could you marry her? If you really cared about me, you wouldn't be breaking my heart like this!" you screamed at him then, and tears streamed down your face. 

"What?"

"How could you marry someone else Sihtric? How could you do that to me when you know how I feel about you? Do you expect me to attend your wedding with a smile on my face? Congratulate you for every child you have with her?"

"What do you mean I know how you feel about me?"

You turned to walk away, and Sihtric couldn't hold back any longer. He grabbed your arm again and spun you around to face him, pushing you against the wall, his face inches from yours. 

His voice rose in anger, "You know what, no! You don't get to say something like that and walk away from me. What did you mean when you said I know how you feel?"

"You know very well what I meant. Do not humiliate me any further," you gave him a weak laugh.

Realization dawned on his face as his eyes widened.

"You have feelings for me?"

You shrugged nonchalantly, "What does it matter? It's not like you feel anything for me."

Sihtric scoffed derisively, "That is the furthest thing from the truth."

"Huh?"

"Don't act like you don't see it. Like you never saw the way I've always looked at you."

Your eyes narrowed in anger, "How dare you? You never once told me how you felt. How dare you blame this on me?"

"I'm not blaming-" he sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I'm sorry okay. I'm sorry I hurt you."

"That doesn't change anything. You're still marrying her."

Your voice broke at the last word and Sihtric's heart clenched at the sight of your melancholy expression.

"I'll try to be happy for you. I swear it. You-you should be able to be with the person you love most and I will make my peace with the fact that it will never be-."

"I don't want to marry her!"

"But-"

"I thought that by marrying someone else, I could forget about you. I was wrong. I can't forget about you."

"Oh don't pretend to care now."

Sihtric tucked a strand of your hair behind your ear and ran his fingers down your jaw. 

"I care about you more than anything," he whispered, stepping infinitesimally closer. "I love you."

"You do?"

"Weren't you listening silly girl? It's you I love, it's you I wish to choose."

"I don't appreciate being called silly," you sulked. "And you're really not going to marry her then?"

"No. No, I can't keep lying to myself."

"You really hurt me you know."

"I know, and I'm sorry," Sihtric begged, his voice pleading. "But please, just give me a chance to make it up to you. I love you. I always have, ever since we were children, and even when I couldn't see you, I never stopped thinking about you. I just didn't want to ruin what we had by telling you."

Your heart skipped a beat at his words. You had always secretly hoped that he felt the same way, but had convinced yourself that he didn't. Now, standing in front of him, you could feel the tug of your shared history and the depth of his emotions.

"Please, just one chance. Let me show you how much I care about you. I promise to never take you for granted again," Sihtric continued sincerely.

"Okay," you murmured, your voice softening. "Okay, I'll give you a chance but if you hurt-"

"Never. I will never hurt you again."

Sihtric brushed the remaining tears from your eyes tenderly and smiled, feeling a sense of relief wash over him. He couldn't resist the pull he felt, because then he was leaning in and pressing his lips gently against yours, unsure if you would reciprocate.

You were caught off guard by the suddenness of the kiss, but as his lips moved against yours, you felt your heart stutter in your chest. You closed your eyes and kissed him back, allowing yourself to be swept away by the rush of affection you felt for him. 

You both stood there for a few long moments, lost in each other, oblivious to the world around you. When he pulled away, Sihtric grinned.

"I suppose I'll have to ask your brother's blessing again," he looked into your eyes hesitantly. "That is if you would do me the honour of allowing me to be yours?"

"Yes. Yes of course."

"Thank you."

He pressed a delicate kiss to your scar and then you were pulling him back towards you by his collar, mouths pressed in a passionate embrace as you both gave in to the undeniable attraction that had been simmering beneath the surface for years.

"I love you, I love you, I love you," he mumbled against your skin like a prayer. 

[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.

[freakynote]

ABOUT ME ˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆

eighteen years old | she her hers | intj-t

THINGS I WRITE

( favs are also written in purple )

female oc x male character

female oc x female character ( depends on the request )

different types of headcanons

oneshots ( fluff ,angst… )

fanfictions

how characters would react to

nsfw alphabet

sfw alphabet

chats

—> request are open!

FANDOMS / CHARACTERS I WRITE FOR

I also write for other fandoms and characters, just send a request <3 My favorite fandoms are written in purple!

death note — l lawliet ,light yagami ,near ,mihael keehl ( mello ) ,teru mikami ,mail jeevas ( matt ) ,misa amane

alice in borderland — shuntarõ chishiya ,ryõhei arisu ,suguru niragi ,daikichi karube ,morizono aguni ,õki yaba ,sunato banda

game of thrones — jon snow ,jaime lannister ,robb stark ,viserys targaryen ,oberyn martell ,tyrion lannister ,podrick payne ,eddard stark ,bronn ,petyr baelish ,ramsay bolton ,daenerys targaryen ,sansa stark

house of the dragon — daemon targaryen ,aegon targaryen ,aemond targaryen ,jacaerys velaryon ,cregan stark ,lucerys velaryon ,benjicot blackwood

vikings — ragnar lothbrok ,bjorn lothbrok ,ivar the boneless ,ubbe ,rollo ,harald finehair ,hvitserk

the last kingdom — uhtred ,sigtryggr ,aethelstan ,edward ,aethelred ,finan ,sihtric

gladiator I & gladiator II — commodus ,maximus ,lucius ,acacius ,emperor geta ,emperor caracalla

cobra kai — miguel diaz ,robby keene ,eli moskowitz ( hawk ) ,kwon jae-sung ,axel kovačević ,sensei wolf

karate kid — daniel larusso ,johnny lawrence ,terry silver

the walking dead — daryl dixon ,rick grimes ,negan smith ,carl grimes

lord of the rings — aragorn ,legolas ,boromir ,faramir

the hobbit — thorin oakenshield ,bard ,thranduil ,legolas ,kili ,bilbo

the boys — homelander ,the deep ,soldier boy ,billy butcher

troy — achilles ,hector ,paris

true beauty — han seo-jun ,lee su-ho

squid game — thanos ( player 230 ) ,salesman ,hwang in-ho ( front man | player 001 ) ,lee myeong-gi ( player 333 ) ,hwang jun-ho ( policeman )

all of us are dead — lee cheong-san ,yoon gwi-nam ,lee su-hyeok ,han gyeong-su ,jang woo-jin

kakegurui — kaede manyuda ,ryota suzui ,mary saotome ,yumeko jabami ,kirari momobami

jujutsu kaisen — satoru gojo ,megumi fushiguro ,choso ,mahito ,sukuna ,toji fushiguro

RULES

Do not copy ,translate or modify my content without my permission! All rights ( except for the original characters and plots ) belong to me. Everyone who does one of the things above will be reported and blocked!

I have the right to deny or ignore requests I am not comfortable writing

I won’t write specific kinks or themes and nsfw content ( for some characters ). It depends on the request. If I am not comfortable with your request ,I‘ll decline so you don’t need to wait unnecessarily <3

Do not interact with me if you spread hate and disrespect towards me or any other creator / user, or you will be blocked!

If I accept your request ,give me time. I am still going to school and don’t have much free time. I am just writing for fun ,so please respect that

English isn’t my first language ,so you might find some spelling or grammatical mistakes. You have been warned

[zeciex]

A Vow of Blood Masterlist

Warnings: This fic includes noncon, dubcon, manipulation, violence and inc3st. Tags will be added as the fic goes on. This is a dark!fic. 18+ only. Read at your own discretion. Please read the warnings before continuing.

Updates every Friday: A work in progress

AO3

A Vow of Blood S1 S1 Epilogue - S2 Prologue

A Vow of Blood S2 Materlist

A Vow of Blood Chapter previews

Chapter previews comes out throughout the week leading up to the new chapter

If you want a moodboard for a specific chapter, send me a message and I'll see what I can do!

A Vow of Blood; Aemond's wedding attire and Daenera's wedding attire

A Vow of Blood Face Claims: Daenera Fenrick, Finan, Jelissa, Mertha, Edelin, Wyllam

A Vow of Blood AU's/Alternative scenes:

An uncanon oneshot; The Wooden Cock The wooden cock, pt. 2

Chapter 96, Alternate Version; Wedding Night; The worship of a starved man

A Vow of Blood Aemond; NSFW Alphabet!

[loveslibrarywp]

Requests open. Fanfics are posted on wattpad: @LovesLibrary. Likes, comments, and reposts are very appreciated.

Requests are open. I will pretty much write for anyone if you ask. I highly recommend requesting so I have the opportunity to write more!

House of the dragon

Aemond Targaryen

Fanfics/mini series

Salvatore - wattpad fanfic

1.) Prologue/teaser +NSFW

2.) Chapter 5 teaser +NSFW

Oneshots

Aemond Loves his pregnant wife! +NSFW

- Aemond Targaryen x Wife!reader

Little red +NSFW

- Aemond Targaryen x Stark!reader

Tis the season +NSFW

- Modern!Aemond Targaryen x reader

Sharing is caring +NSFW

- Aemond Targaryen x wife!reader x Helaena Targaryen

Aegon || Targaryen

Fanfics/mini series

None yet

Oneshots

Ataraxia; freedom of worry

- Aegon Targaryen x wife!reader

Helaena Targaryen

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None yet

Oneshots

The secrets we keep +NSFW

- Helaena x fem!reader

Sharing is caring +NSFW

- Aemond Targaryen x wife!reader x Helaena Targaryen

Jacaerys Velaryon

Fanfics/ mini series

None yet

Oneshots

None yet

Lucerys Velaryon

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None yet

One shots

None yet

Cregan Stark

Fanfics/ mini series

None yet

Oneshots

Marriage for duty

- Cregan Stark x Strong!reader

The Last Kingdom

Osferth

Fanfics/mini series

None yet

Oneshots

Too good

- Osferth x fem!reader

Worship and Desire +NSFW

- Osferth x fem!reader

Finan

Fanfics/mini series

None yet

One shots

None yet

Sihtric

Fanfics/mini series

None yet

One shots

None yet

Æthelstan

Fanfics/mini series

None yet

One shots

None yet

[angelsworks]

Escape Yandere! Uhtred Ragnarsson x reader

Type: Oneshot

Summary: You try to escape Yandere!Uhtred

Warnings: Yandere theme, face-slapping, violence, death, controlling relationship, toxic ness, etc

You leant against the horse stables. Mouth tightly forming a line, forehead creased with worry. Your stomach in a tangle of knots as you watched the guards at the gate. Guarding the entrance to Cookham. The longer you lived here the more you realised they guarded it as an exit. Trapping you in the town you’d grown to hate.

Finally your eyes saw the guards rotate. You’d watched them long enough to know they got distracted. Long enough at least for you to make your escape.

Swiftly, you climbed your horse. One prepared for you by a stable boy. A boy a little older than you, but still much younger than Uhtred and his friends. You’d build a relationship with him for many months now. Slowly convincing him to help you. You knew the risk. You knew what would happen if word got back to Uhtred.

The stable boy, Thomas, was more than happy to help after listening to you tell him of your woes living trapped in Cookham. Although you knew his desire to help wasn’t completely selfless. He had developed some affection for you. You’d be lying if you said you didn’t exploit that to make your escape plan.

Your horse trotted through the gate slowly. Not a guard in sight. Your heart beat like a drum in your chest and filling your ears. As the horse rode on down the path to a new town, you thought of how still the air was. How the night seemed eerily silent.

You’d left Uhtred and his men drinking heavily in the local tavern. You’d made some excuse earlier that night about being under the weather. He sent you to his quarters with a kiss on the cheek. Only that’s not where you went.

The horse started to whine as it approached a bridge. After crossing the bridge you’d reach a fork in the road. From there the stable boy had told you you could get to any town in England. Including your home town.

It felt a world away now. All those months ago where Uhtred had won you over and taken you back to his home. How wrong you had been to fall for his charms. It quickly became clear he was not all he seemed.

It wasn’t just Uhtred though. He was surrounded by people who had no problems with his obsessive behaviour towards you. In fact then endorsed it. Often helping in keeping you in town and with Uhtred.

When your horse reached the middle of the bridge you heard a voice. A familiar voice. It was no surprise who it was.

Finan, a friends of Uhtred’s who was more like family. Many times he’d snitched to Uhtred about you. Stoping any attempts to escape the lord of Cookham.

“Come now Lady, your Lord will surely worry to have you out at this time.” His voice is annoyingly condescending. Like everyone around you he treats you like a child, with little capability.

You shake your head, “Move aside Finan. I want to leave. You, nor Sihtric, nor Oesferth can keep me here with your Lord. So move aside.”

He laughs at you, which boils your blood. “No can do Lady. You will return to Cookham with me or I will inform your Lord. He will be much displeased to hunt you down.”

While your body begins to shake from adrenaline, your voice stays firm. “So be it.”

In a bolt you snap the reigns of your horse and it takes off. It’s an especially fast horse, the fastest in the stable. Picked for this purpose. In combat you don’t stand a chance against Uhtred or any of his men. Speed however, you could gain the advantage.

You pass Finan with little struggle. He makes no move to reach for you or stop you. That should have been your first sign something was wrong.

In the dark you didn’t see the rope tied between two trees. Unable to see in the dark the horse tripped and threw you off. Effectively sending you hurdling towards the ground with great force. That same force winded you and brought tears to your eyes.

“Is it so awful in Cookham lady?” Uhtred asked as you gasped for breath.

“Am I so awful lady?” He taunted coming into view from the treeline.

Still gasping from your winded state on the ground, you could do little to respond. From your eye-line you could see someone help your horse up and lead it away. The long robe suggested it was Oesferth.

Uhtred roughly pulled you to your feet by your arms, dragging you to a kneeling position. You could see now Finan’s face, still smug. Next to him was Sihtric, face cold and stern. But it was the person between them your attention fell to.

Thomas the stable boy.

In the little light and next to two warriors like Finan and Sihtric, he looks especially young and boy like. He looks like a child. Guilt fills your stomach. You knew he would most likely be blamed for your escape. You shouldn’t have involved him, but you were so desperate.

“This boy, he helped you?” Uhtred asks you. You don’t respond, looking down at the dirt floor.

You feel a sting on your cheek before you realised you’ve been slapped. The sound echos through the small clearing.

“Answer me girl, or I’ll do worse than slap you.” He threatens, gripping your jaw and tilting your face so your eyes would meet his own.

“Yes.” You voice weakly.

“Do you know what I do to traitors in my village.” You did know what happened. What he did to anyone who spoke to you, flirted with you, touched you. Nevermind anyone who got close enough to help you.

“Uhtred no, he’s just a boy.” You plead.

“By my count he’s man to try and take my woman. Man enough to conspire against me,” he pauses, “Man enough to face my sword.”

He goes to swing his now unsheathed sword against the boy. Yet your words stop him.

“Please Uhtred, leave the boy. Punish me instead and I’ll never leave you again, I’ll never try.” You beg.

He sighs, “You’ll give me that anyway.” His disappointment is clear. You’ll be his regardless if this boy lives or dies. It’s non-negotiable.

You cry out as he swings his sword, causing Thomas’ head to roll from his shoulders.

[flowerpotmage]

I have yet to see tlk I was kind of thinking about Alfie Solomons from pb I really should see tlk it looks similar to Merlin which is my all time favorite show

OHHH peaky blinders!!! That's on my list for sure, I just haven't been in the right mood to start it yet.

I only watched most of s1 merlin, but I could see tlk having some similar vibes. It's historical fiction tho, so no fun fantasy stuff. Finan is my favorite and iirc he's not until season 2 maybe? Beautiful irish man with some snark and buckets of loyalty. I have a oneshot with him I've been working on for like, most of the year bc I just add a sentence to it here and there randomly lol

[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.”

[thecocchamchronicle]

Title: Lean on Me

Summary: Finan distracts Y/N while she is being treated by a healer (Requested by @emberoflife​)

Words: 1294

Warnings: mentions of gore, blood, injury

A/N: The healer character’s name is Sundhed, which means health in Danish. Just a fun little fact!

  “RUN Y/N! COME ON!” “THEY’RE COMING!” Uhtred’s men shouted frantically over each other.

The muscles of your legs ached beyond belief and you weren’t sure how much farther you they would carry you. The rushing wind deafened all other noises but the huffing of your breath. Your lungs fared no better and burned with every puff of your chest. Of all the time you spent running, this was by far the fastest you’d ever run. Was it the adrenaline coursing through your veins? Or the fear of being caught by Sigefrid and Erik’ army? Surely the answer didn’t matter. What mattered was reaching safety behind the shield wall.

Within an instant you found yourself on the dewy and cold ground of the earth. A blood curdling scream escaped your throat without effort. Surges of excruciating pain shot through your body. It felt as though you had been struck down by a bolt of Thor’s lightning. You turned to discover what had caused your downfall. An arrow had pierced your outer thigh. It had entered your flesh from the back and poked out the front. Another arrow had sliced your side, but hadn’t been in-bedded.

Erik and Sigefrid’s army was closing in. The warriors’ shouting became a roar and you could almost feel the power of their horses’ stampede.

  “Y/N!” Finan panicked.

  “Open the shield wall!” Uhtred commanded.

The men separated their shields, creating an opening for Finan to retrieve you. Without a thought, Finan rushed forward, scooping you up in one fell swoop. He stammered backwards, carrying you behind the shield wall.

He turned quickly on his heals and was now facing the crowd of his fellow warriors. “MAKE WAY!” he bellowed.

The men obeyed and parted, creating an clear path for Finan and you to escape to a more secure location.

Finan cradled you closely against his chest. He sprinted through the forest, dodging any and all obstacles that came his way.

  “Ya’re going to be just fine Y/N. I’ve got you.”  

You tried to focus on his reassuring words and the comfort of his arms around you, but the pain was all consuming. The energy was quickly draining from your body and your eyelids became heavy.

  “Hey! Stay awake.” Finan shook you gently.

Finally the tents of the camp were in sight.

Finan grabbed the first man he laid eyes on. “You! Fetch Sundhed, tell him we need him in Y/N’s tent.” Finan demanded.

The man did not question the Irishman, he only nodded and sprinted off to find the healer.  

Finan slowed down as exhaustion began to take over. But for your sake, he forced himself to continue on. Once at your tent, Finan slipped inside and placed you down carefully on the furs of your bed. A few moments later, Sundhed appeared in the open flaps of the tent’s fabric.The healer was tall and muscular, his arms covered in aged scars. Dirty blonde hair framed his angular face. It was tousled and dreaded, but pulled up and out of his face, like most Danish men.

  “What happened to her?” Sundhed asked.

  “She took an arrow to the leg. And it looks like another one grazed her side.” Finan explained.

Sundhed nodded silently and set to work. He unpacked his sack of healing supplies, which included herbs, home made remedies and other various tools of his trade.

  “Finan, it will help if you hold her down.” he said.

Your friend obeyed, grabbing your ankles and pinning them down against the bed.

  “Ready?” Sundhed asked.

You balled your hand into a fist and bit down on it. Despite being vastly unprepared for the inevitable pain, you nodded.

With an intense snap, Sundhed broke the finned ends off the arrow. Your legs writhed against your will and Finan was there to steady them. He struggled to hold your flailing limbs and was surprised at your strength. Though it was true that over the years he’d seen injured men that seemed to have gained almost god-like strength when being healed.

You tried to calm yourself but the attempts were futile. Finan noticed your chest heaving and he thought you might faint.  

He looked you in the eyes. “Just breathe, Y/N.”

His voice was soothing and you did as you were told. You clenched your eyes shut and focused solely on breathing. Without warning Sundhed began to  slowly remove the wooden rod of the arrow from your thigh. Another scream ripped through your throat and was distorted by your fist. If someone were to walk past your tent, they surely would have thought it was a wounded animal making these noises, not one of their fellow warriors.

Surely there was no pain between Valhalla and Hel worse than this. Sundhed gave you a moment to compose yourself, before moving onto the next portion of his healing process. Finan released your legs and knelt by your side.

  “It’s alright, just, here hold my hand.”

Your bloodied hand tightened around Finan’s calloused palm. His skin was warm to the touch and you were thankful he was there to comfort you.

  “You’ve got the grip of a bear’s jaw.” He quirked a smile, trying to lighten the mood.

Sundhed quickly began sterilizing your wounds. He gently wiped the surrounding gore with a clothe and poured a mysterious liquid directly onto both wounds.

Your head fell back in agony against the furs on the bed. Your mind betrayed you and choose to only focus on the pain. Tears trickled over your eyes and fell onto the cheeks below. Finan rubbed over your hand softly. His touch grounded you back in reality. 

The final step of Sundhed’s process was bandaging up the wounds to keep them from infection and further harm. He began and tried to work as quickly and gently as possible. He tightly wrapped your thigh with long strips of cloth, tying the pieces into a firm knot once he finished. The healer did the same with the wound at your side, though he left some slack in the fabric, allowing you to move and breathe. 

   “You’ll need to clean the wound and change the bandages once a day if you want to heal properly. I’ll leave this cleansing remedy for you. Come by should you need more.” Sundhed instructed. 

   “Thank you.” you said meekly. 

Sundhed nodded and exited your tent. Through the opening, you and Finan could both see Uhtred and Sihtric peeking inside.  

Finan gently brushed his hand against your arm. “Will you be alright if I step out for a moment?” he asked softly.

You gave his hand a quick squeeze. “I think I’ll survive.” 

  “I’ll be right back.” he stepped out of the tent to join the worrying warriors.

  “How is she?” Uhtred inquired.

Finan sighed. “Sundhed said if we keep her wounds clean and covered in fresh bandages that she should recover. She’s been through hell today but she’ll pull through, I’m sure of it.”

   “That’s relieving news.” Sihtric added. 

   “It is. I think I will stay with her a while, be here in case she needs anything.” Finan said. 

Uhtred and Sihtric patted Finan on the back and headed off to inquire on any other important happenings that occurred during the battle. 

Finan reentered your tent to find you asleep. Surely your body had had enough and succumbed to exhaustion. Finan was happy to see a peaceful expression on your face after all the pain you’d been through. 

Finan suddenly realized how drained he, himself was. He shuffled forward and plopped down onto the ground next to your bed. He would be there, should you be requiring any help. Finan vowed to himself that he’d be there for you as long as you needed his comfort. 

⚔️PART TWO?⚔️

[ealdormanink]

Can you write one with Ivar? ❤️

Reader is daughter of King Harald and shes friends and in love with Ivar and she has to marry one of the Ragnarssons and they all want her and she ofc chooses Ivar and he cant believe it.

Written in the Stars

Ivar the boneless x female reader!

A/N: thank you for this request! I hope you like it!!

King Harald's fleet's sails cast long shadows over Kattegat's iron-grey waters. Y/N's fingers traced the wooden railing of her father's ship, her eyes fixed on the approaching shoreline. The familiar silhouettes of the great hall and the busy docks stirred memories that made her heart flutter against her ribs.

The salty breeze carried whispers of past winters spent poring over maps by candlelight, of shared laughter echoing through empty halls when everyone else had retired, of piercing blue eyes that saw her - truly saw her - for who she was.

"The winds have favored us." Harald's voice broke through the symphony of creaking wood and splashing waves. Y/N's fingers stilled on the railing, though she couldn't quite suppress the way her lips curved upward.

Through the morning mist, familiar figures emerged on the docks. There, among his brothers, sat Ivar in his chariot. Even from this distance, the intensity of his gaze sent a shiver down her spine. Their eyes met across the narrowing stretch of water, and five years of friendship hung in the space between them.

The ship's bow cut through the last few meters of fjord. As they docked, Ubbe's voice carried across the harbor, "Welcome to Kattegat, King Harald." His eyes lingered on Y/N, calculating and considering in a way that made her spine stiffen.

Hvitserk stepped forward, extending his hand to help her onto the dock. "Princess Y/N." His smile was warm, practiced. "The gods have blessed us with your return."

The wooden planks creaked under her boots as she accepted his assistance, but her attention was drawn to the subtle shift in Ivar's posture, the way his knuckles whitened around the edge of his chariot.

"The journey must have been tiring." Ivar's voice cut through the pleasantries like a blade through silk. His eyes hadn't left her face since she'd first appeared on deck. "Perhaps the princess would prefer to rest before tonight's festivities."

"Always so concerned, brother." Sigurd's words dripped with mockery. "Or perhaps you're simply eager to monopolize her time, as usual?"

Y/N's fingers unconsciously found the silver pendant at her throat - a gift from Ivar, carved with runes they'd deciphered together during one of their many late-night conversations. Those nights when they'd abandon the noise of the great hall, finding solace in ancient sagas and battle strategies that only they seemed to understand.

The great hall buzzed with activity as servants prepared for the evening's feast. Y/N's chambers overlooked the main square, where memories lingered in every corner. Her fingers traced the windowsill where, years ago, she'd first found Ivar alone, poring over his father's old maps.

"Your form is wrong." The echo of her younger self's voice played in her mind. She'd corrected his interpretation of the English coastline that day, earning not his usual sharp retort, but a look of genuine surprise. That was the first time he'd smiled at her - really smiled.

A knock at the door pulled her from the memory. Astrid, one of the servants, entered with fresh water.

"The sons of Ragnar are asking after you, Princess." Astrid's eyes sparkled with barely contained excitement. "All of them."

The weight of unspoken words hung in the air. Everyone knew why Harald had brought his daughter to Kattegat this time. Alliances needed to be strengthened, and marriage was the surest way.

Y/N's feet carried her to the courtyard, where she found Ubbe first. He stood tall, every inch the eldest brother, watching the training grounds with calculated interest.

"You've grown more beautiful since we last met." His voice was diplomatic, measured. He stepped closer, close enough for her to see the political ambition in his eyes. "A union between us would bring great strength to both our people."

Before she could respond, Hvitserk appeared, twirling a knife between his fingers. "Brother, you sound like you're negotiating a trade deal." His easy smile didn't quite mask the hunger in his gaze. "Our princess deserves poetry, not politics."

Y/N's eyes drifted past them both, landing on the familiar figure by the weapons rack. Ivar sat cleaning his axe - the same one she'd helped him choose three winters ago. His movements were precise, following the pattern she'd shown him: three strokes down, one across, just as her mother had taught her.

"Still pining after the cripple?" Sigurd's voice slithered from behind her. "You could have any of us, yet you waste your time with him."

The familiar surge of protective anger rose in her chest, but before she could speak, Ivar's axe embedded itself in the post beside Sigurd's head.

"Your aim is improving," Y/N said, the words falling naturally from her lips, an old joke between them. "Though you're still pulling slightly to the left."

"Perhaps I need another lesson." Ivar's eyes met hers, and for a moment, they were back in that first winter, when she'd spent hours helping him adjust his throwing technique, never once mentioning his legs, focusing only on his strength.

The feast hall glowed with firelight, casting dancing shadows across faces both familiar and strange. Y/N sat at the high table, her father's words still ringing in her ears: "You must choose one of Ragnar's sons before the next full moon."

Her eyes drifted across the hall, watching the brothers in turn. Ubbe stood among the warriors, every gesture calculated to display his leadership. Hvitserk charmed a group of shield-maidens, though his gaze kept finding its way back to her. Sigurd strummed his oud, his song carrying notes of barely concealed mockery.

And Ivar... Ivar sat in his usual corner, away from the crowds, his fingers tracing the rim of his cup. The same spot where they'd spent countless evenings discussing everything from battle tactics to the gods themselves.

"Do you remember," his voice caught her off guard as she approached his table, drawn to him as always, "the night you taught me about the stars?"

How could she forget? They'd stayed up until dawn, her finger pointing out constellations while he told her the stories behind each one. She'd never told him that she'd already known them all - she'd just wanted to hear his voice, to see the way his eyes lit up when he spoke of the gods.

"You were a terrible student," she teased, sliding onto the bench beside him. The familiar scent of leather and metal wrapped around her like an old blanket. "You kept making up new constellations."

"And you kept believing them." His smile, rare and genuine, made her heart stutter. "Until you realized I was describing shapes that looked like Sigurd falling off a horse."

A comfortable silence fell between them, filled with years of shared moments and unspoken words. Around them, the feast continued, but they existed in their own world, just as they always had.

"They're all watching you," Ivar said finally, his voice tight. "My brothers. They all want you."

"Let them watch." Her fingers found the edge of the table, inches from his. "They don't see me the way you do."

"And how do I see you?" His question came out barely above a whisper, vulnerable in a way only she was allowed to witness.

"Like I'm more than just Harald's daughter. Like I'm..." She paused, remembering all the times he'd challenged her mind, valued her opinions, trusted her judgment. "Like I'm me."

The firelight caught the silver of his arm ring - the one she'd helped him forge two summers ago, their fingers working the metal together as she'd steadied his hand.

The moment of choice arrived with the rising moon. The great hall fell silent as Y/N stood before the assembled crowd, her father's expectant gaze heavy upon her shoulders. Four brothers stood before her, four possible futures stretched out like paths in the darkness.

Ubbe stepped forward first, ever the diplomat. "Choose wisely, Princess. The future of our peoples rests upon this decision." His words echoed against the wooden walls, practiced and perfect.

Hvitserk offered her a playful wink. "Choose with your heart, not your head." His charm sparkled like sunlight on water, beautiful but fleeting.

Sigurd simply smirked, his fingers still wrapped around his oud. "Though some choices," his eyes flickered to Ivar, "might be less... conventional than others."

And Ivar... Ivar remained still, his eyes fixed on the ground. She could read the tension in his shoulders, the way his fingers gripped his crutch - a gesture she'd learned meant he was preparing himself for disappointment.

Y/N's feet carried her forward, past Ubbe's calculated smile, past Hvitserk's outstretched hand, past Sigurd's mocking gaze. She stopped before Ivar, close enough to see the subtle tremor in his hands.

"I choose Ivar Ragnarsson," her voice rang clear through the hall. "I choose the man who saw me as an equal before he saw me as a princess."

Ivar's head snapped up, disbelief warring with hope in his ice-blue eyes. "You can't," he whispered, for her ears alone. "You deserve someone who can-"

"I deserve someone who challenges my mind," she cut him off, her hand finding his cheek. "Someone who values my thoughts as much as my title. Someone who taught me to read the stars, even while making up constellations to make me laugh."

The hall erupted in murmurs, but Y/N heard only the sharp intake of Ivar's breath. His free hand found hers, trembling slightly.

"You've always been my choice," she continued, soft enough that only he could hear. "Since that first day when you argued with me about the English coastline. Since every night we spent planning battles and reading sagas. Since every moment you saw me for who I am, not who I was born to be."

"But I'm-" he started.

"You're Ivar," she said simply. "My Ivar. The only one who's ever matched me, challenged me, understood me. The only one I could ever choose."

Slowly, like dawn breaking over the horizon, a smile spread across Ivar's face - not his usual smirk, but the real smile she'd come to treasure. His fingers tightened around hers, and in that moment, they were back in every shared laugh, every quiet conversation, every silent understanding that had led them here.

"The gods themselves couldn't have given me a greater gift," he whispered, and Y/N saw in his eyes the same truth she'd known all along - that some choices are made long before they're spoken aloud, written in the stars they'd watched together all those nights ago.

[icarusignite]

Hey,

Could you imagine doing an Athelstan x reader. Where the reader is the daughter of Sihtric.

Maybe the reader could be the first child of Sihtric and his first wife (I know he only has one but his wife from the series could be the second). When his wife from the series met him, he left the readers mother and got together with his new wife. Unfortunately, the readers mother died shortly afterwards.

The reader's world collapsed but she still has her best friends Athelstan and Sophia, who is Finan's daughter. (I just like the name Sophia, I hope it's okay that Finan also has a daughter in this story. Of course you can change the name)

It would be cool if sihtric's new wife doesn't like the reader because she looks like her mother.

(So she is almost the evil stepmother, but the siblings are sweet)

Of course, Sihtric loves his daughter the reader more than anything but the reader distances herself because she blames him and his new wife for the fact that her mother is gone. Maybe she could also be jealous that sihtric also spends a lot of time with his other children and his new wife, because normally it was always only her and her father against the rest of the world.

Athelstan and the reader have always had feelings for each other. They didn't want to tell the other because they were afraid to destroy the friendship.

Sophia and the reader are like sisters, the two are inseparable and do everything together. When the reader was getting worse and worse, because she became more angry because of her father and their relationship got worse and worse, Sophia made a suggestion to go away. Sophia and the reader are both shieldmaiden and always wanted to travel over the world and make a name for themselves. Even if it is difficult for both to leave their family and Athelstan behind, they go away. Sophia, of course, finds it difficult to leave her father because she has no problems with him, but for the reader she would do it.

When the fight for Bebbanburg takes place after years and Sophia and the reader hear about it, they come to help. The two have a great army. The warriors and shieldmaiden wanted to follow them because they were impressed by their fighting skills.

In the end, there might be a conversation between the reader and Sihtric and that she tells him how she feels. And of course, Athelstan and the reader confess their feelings to each other, which became even stronger than they were not together.

I'm sorry it's so long but I wanted to write down all sorts of thoughts I hope you like it.

Your reader

Go ahead and cry, little girl

A/N: Heyyyyy, I am back from the dead. I am SUPER sorry for the massive delay. I've just been off Tumblr for a bit, but I am back. This is quite possibly the longest oneshot I've written so far lol. The Aethelstan bit doesn't quite start until the end but I do like how it turned out and I hope you like what I've done with your prompt <3 (could you tell that I was listening to Daddy Issues on repeat while writing this lmfao)

Disclaimer: I haven't watched the TLK movie (and I've been avoiding spoilers lol) so I have no idea what Aethelstan is like in that one, this is just based on what I know about him in season 5. Also, I was super done with this story by the time I was done with it so it's not really proofread. If you see any typos feel free to point them out so I can fix them lol, or just enjoy it as it is ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Word Count: ~8k

Pairing: Aethelstan x Reader.

The air was crisp and filled with the scent of pine and earth, invigorating the senses. In the heart of Rumcofa, a small clearing had been transformed into a makeshift training ground. Sihtric Kjartansson stood in the middle of the clearing, his battle-worn sword resting on his broad shoulder. Across from him stood his young daughter. Although you were only a young girl of seven winters, your hands tightly gripped the wooden sword in your hand as you stood tall, shoulders set and feet wide apart as you tried to copy your father's stance. 

"Hold your sword higher, bend your elbows," Sihtric called out, circling you, and gently nudging you to correct your stance. 

"Yes, Father," you nodded. 

Once Sihtric was satisfied with your pose, he turned as if to walk away, only to lunge forward, swinging his sword with calculated precision. Your training sword met his attack, weapons clashing with a resounding thud. Father and daughter moved in harmony, your steps an intricate dance. SIhtric would feign an attack, allowing you to then parry and counter, your small frame mirroring your father's every move.

As the training session drew to a close, a beaming smile stretched across Sihtric's face, as pride swelled within him. He extended a calloused hand and ruffled your hair, affectionately mussing it. 

"You fought well today, my little shieldmaiden," he grinned. 

"Thank you, Father!"

The sounds of whoops and cheers filled the air. You turned your head toward the two children standing on the sidelines, watching you with keen interest as they clapped. There was Sophia, with her fiery red hair cascading down her shoulders, bouncing on her toes as she waited for you to approach them. The mousy-looking boy standing next to her, Aethelstan, rolled his eyes but his shy smile as he met your gaze gave him away. 

Once you were within a few paces, Sophia launched herself at you with a squeal of delight, throwing her arms around you. 

"You were incredible!" she crowed. "You'll soon be even better than Aethelstan here."

Aethelstan scoffed, "She still has a long way to go before that."

You rolled your eyes, "You know I can kick your arse right now if I want, right?"

"Cannot!"

"Can too."

You stuck your tongue out at your friend, and he returned the gesture, causing Sophia to laugh.

Sihtric cleared his throat to interrupt the bickering, "Alright, alright kids, off you go. The hour grows late and your parents must be expecting you home."

"It's alright, Father knows where I am," Sophia responded cheerfully. 

Sihtric chuckled, "Yes well I don't know about Finan, but Eadith will surely have my head if I don't send you back before dark. Off you go, you can see each other tomorrow."

Sophia gave you one last hug before departing, and Aethelstan settled on a wave of his hand which you mimicked. After they had gone, Sihtric took your hand, gently leading the way toward your own home. 

"Did you see that, Father? Aethelstan denies it but I could definitely kick his ass, couldn't I?"

"Language, little one."

"You use it all the time Father."

"Ah yes, but you know your mother doesn't like it when you use words like that."

"Your mother doesn't like what?" came a frail voice from the doorway of your house.

You looked up to see your mother leaning against the wall, arms crossed and an affectionate smile playing on her lips. There were shadows under her eyes and her skin looked sickly pale but at least she was well enough to get out of bed today. 

"Mama!" you let go of your father's hand to rush up to her, wrapping your arms around her waist and burying your face in her warm dress. 

Your mother laughed, "And what was my mischievous girl up to today, hmm?"

"Father is teaching me how to spar. He says I'm getting better every day!"

"Is that so?"

"Yes, she is," Sihtric came over to wrap an arm around your mother's shoulder and pressed a kiss to her forehead. 

She smiled and leaned against him with a sigh. 

"How are you feeling, love?"

"A lot better now that you're both here. Eadith was here earlier. She...she says that..." your mother sent a cautious glance your way.

"What did she say?" Sihtric prompted. 

Your mother was quick to flash him a reassuring smile, "Nothing too noteworthy. All is well."

"If you say so."

"Now go wash up, both of you!" your mother laughed, pinching your cheeks and gently pushing Sihtric further inside the house. "You both smell awful!"

"Mother!"

"You know I love you darling, but you need a bath."

"Get the fuck out of my house!"

You had never seen your mother this angry before. Her rage was a tangible thing, large and looming as she raged. The object of her wrath was your father, who stood there in your mother's room, eyes steeled with determination, even as she threw things at him. 

"I-I can explain," Sihtric began, his voice faltering as he ducked to avoid the book she threw at his head. 

"Explain?" your mother roared, her voice echoing through the chamber. "Is there any explanation for such treachery? After all these years of devotion, I am met with betrayal?"

Her normally gentle demeanour was replaced with a fiery fury that demanded attention. Her throat was raw and her voice cracked. Her eyebrows furrowed, knitting together in a mixture of anger and disbelief. The delicate curve of her lips, once known for only speaking words of grace and tenderness, contorted into a stern line, a testament to her righteous fury. Her complexion was paler than usual, and all colour drained from her face as tears streamed down, betraying her vulnerability. 

You watched your parents argue from the doorway, eyes darting between them. Your hands clenched, nails digging into your palms hard enough to leave marks. You would have much rather left to be with your friends, but you stayed because you worried for your mother. Your parents were not the type to fight, not explosively like this anyways. Sure they had petty arguments, they were human after all, but those were always resolved soon after, with your father bringing your mother flowers and an apology that would coax a smile from her. You worried that they might not recover from this, and if they did not recover, you wondered how your mother would even survive it. She was already so weak. These were the thoughts that consumed you, as you watched silently. You did not even dare entertain the other thoughts that whispered at the edges of your mind, thoughts about your mother's allegations against your father. 

"I offered you my love, my trust, and this is how you repay me?" your mother continued, her voice quivering with emotion. "You have shamed not only me but our entire family!"

"Listen-" Sihtric tried again, avoiding her eyes in shame.

"No you listen! If you wanted to be free to hump all the whores you liked, you shouldn't have married me. Now go. Go back to your harlot and do not let me see your face here!"

Sihtric's eyes widened with disbelief, "You...you do not mean that."

"Oh, I mean it with all my heart."

"It was a mistake. I swear it was a mistake."

"No, it wasn't." 

Your mother's voice cracked with grief as more tears flowed from her stricken eyes. She suddenly rushed up to her husband, grabbed his chin with surprising strength and wrenched his face up to meet her gaze. 

"It was not a mistake," she hissed. "You have already dishonoured me enough, do not make it worse by lying to me as well."

"I didn't mean to hurt you," was all he said, his voice small.

Your mother's hand fell away and she took a trembling step back. 

"What was it then? What was it about me that was not enough for you? Was it my sickness? I admit that I have not had much energy for anything these past few months but-"

She was then unable to finish her sentence, a choked sob escaping her lips as she clapped her hands over her mouth to stifle it. 

"Was I so awful that you had to seek out the company of another woman? Did you find my company that repulsive?"

"That...that's not true..."

"Get the fuck out of my house. I never want to see you again!"

Sihtric opened his mouth to protest but she held up a hand, silencing him. His shoulders slumped, and with tears in his eyes, he turned away from her. He brushed past you on his way out and something in your heart cracked just then. You had to stop him somehow, you thought to yourself. You had to fix this. You had to fix them. 

You sprinted after him, stopping him just as he was about to step out the door, tugging on his hand. 

"Father..."

Sihtric's eyes softened as he took in your forlorn form. 

"I-I'm sorry darling."

"Father, don't go. Please, please, please, don't go," you tugged on his hand more insistently, eyes beginning to well with tears.

"I'm sorry."

"Apologize to her. Please, just apologize. Say you didn't mean any of it. She'll forgive you, I just know she will, she loves you. Just, please don't go."

"I...I can't, I'm sorry."

"Is that all you can say?" your voice rose in frustration. "Is that all you can do? Apologize? If you're really sorry, you'd try to fix it! Please...please, please, please fix this."

Sihtric smoothed a hand through your hair, his touch tender. He brushed the tears from your cheeks and you shook him off angrily. You felt like you couldn't breathe and the walls were beginning to close in on you. Everything was falling apart and you had no idea how to fix it.

"Father, please. Please don't go. Please don't leave her, don't leave us."

"I'm sorry, but I have to go."

With one last solemn look and a pat on your head, he was gone, and as you stared dejectedly at his disappearing back, you felt as if the world had been pulled out from under your feet. You wondered if he'd ever return.

Suddenly, you were interrupted by a pained wail and your head snapped in the direction of your mother's room. Fear seized your heart as you hastily made your way back to her side. She was slumped on the floor, curled in a fetal position, hands wrapped around her knees as her body shuddered with sobs. 

"Mama!" you ran to her side, gingerly putting your hand on her shoulder.

She didn't seem to acknowledge your presence, a low keening sound coming from her throat. 

"Mama!" you shook her shoulder a little harder. "What's wrong? Are you feeling sick? Should I call for someone?"

 Your mother shook her head, still wailing. You waited a few moments, before wrapping your arms around her frail shoulders and helping her sit up. You were just smoothing her hair back when suddenly she turned her head to the side and retched, emptying the contents of her stomach right there on the floor of her chambers. She groaned in pain then, clutching her stomach wearily. 

"Shhh, it's okay. You'll be alright, mother. Let's get you to bed," you whispered. 

You had already put down your own grief, locking it away somewhere unreachable. You had to take care of your mother first, and you couldn't afford to be distracted. You allowed her to take deep shuddering breaths before wiping at her mouth with the back of your sleeve and helping her to get settled back in her bed. Almost all her weight slumped onto your small frame when you moved her, and you grunted with the effort. Then you ran to fetch a bowl of water to clean her face with, pressing a cold cloth onto her forehead to ease her suffering a little. She seemed to vibrate with pain and you didn't know if it was the emotional toll of your father leaving or the physical pain of her sickness. 

Eventually, she drifted off to a troubled sleep as you continued to run your hands through her hair. You kissed her forehead and felt her relax a fraction and you felt your heart lift with hope. You left her side only to clean up the sickness from her floor, before returning to curl up in bed beside her, wrapping your arm around her waist as you held onto her tightly, as if afraid she'd disappear. 

The next morning, she was running a fever. Her skin was scalding and she only opened her eyes for a few moments to mumble something incoherent to you before drifting off again. That is when the panic began to set in. You were just about to head out to fetch Eadith when she arrived at your door herself. She had a sympathetic smile and pitying eyes as she let herself in and set about checking up on your mother. She had heard about yesterday's commotion, almost everyone in Rumcofa had. It was a small town after all. 

"She'll be alright in no time, love. Don't you worry about her, she is a very strong woman," she told you kindly. 

You nodded, and then hesitantly, you asked her the question that had been plaguing your mind. 

"Where's Father?"

Eadith's lips thinned, "He...he has gone with Uhtred and the others."

"Oh."

"I can stay here until your mother feels better," she offered. "You are much too young to care for her on your own."

You were just about to nod when your mother chose that exact moment to wake up. 

"No!" she blurted out, her voice hoarse. "I-I would not want to impose."

Eadith squeezed her hand gently, "It would be no trouble at all. Please."

Your mother shook her head weakly, "It is just a little fever. I'll feel better in no time. You have children to take care of, and your husband isn't even home. You must go back to them. I'll be just fine."

"But-"

"Please," your mother pleaded. "I'm no invalid. I can take care of myself just fine. And besides, I have my darling here to keep me company."

She stretched out her hand which you took immediately, letting her pull you close. 

Eadith looked unconvinced but after your mother insisted several more times, she nodded. She left you with a few herbs and medicines to give to your mother depending on her various symptoms and promised to return the next day to check up on the two of you. 

"Mother..."

"Yes, my love?"

"You'll be alright, right?"

You were cuddled up next to her, but still, the house felt strangely empty. She felt like a wraith beside you, like she could leave any minute and then you'd truly be left alone. You could feel her bones through her thin nightgown and you clutched her tighter, as if you could hold her together. 

"Of course, I'll be alright, my love," she pressed a kiss to the crown of your head. 

"Promise me. Promise me you'll be alright. That you won't leave me!"

"Oh, I wouldn't leave you for the world. You mean too mu-" her words were interrupted by a fit of coughs. 

She pressed her sleeve to her mouth and it came away tinged with blood. She pulled it away quickly, folding the sleeve up so that you could not see and you pretended that you hadn't. The two of you spent the rest of the day in bed, with you reading to her as she swam in and out of consciousness. Every time her eyes would flutter open and see you, her face would relax and she'd kiss you, as if trying to impart a lifetime's worth of affection. 

Her health took a turn for the worse later in the night. Her fever had greatly worsened and although you had given her all of Eadith's medicines, nothing seemed to help. She was still awake though, so that was some comfort. 

"Let me go get Eadith please," you begged her. 

"No. We will not bother her now. The hour is late and she said she'd come by tomorrow anyways."

"But Mother! You seem to be getting worse. Please, please you need to see someone!"

"I will not make a fuss at this hour. I'll be just fine. I just need to-"

A fit of hacking coughs overwhelmed her once again, blood pooling at her lips. She was too weak to hide it and instead allowed it to trickle down her chin. You wiped at it hastily, eyes filling with tears of frustration. You yearned to rush out and fetch someone right away, but your mother kept a vicelike grip on your arm. 

"Mama, please," you begged again. 

"I-no-"

She was having trouble breathing. You could tell. She sucked in air through her mouth and it rattled painfully in her chest. Every breath hurt her and all you could do was helplessly watch. 

"You...you know I-I love you right?" she wheezed suddenly. 

"What?"

"I...I said I love you, my darling girl."

"I love you too Mama," you whispered. 

She pulled you close and you rested your head on her chest. She massaged your scalp with her fingers, whispering more sweet nothings into your ear. You felt her voice grow softer and her breathing slow down. Perhaps she'd sleep it off, you thought to yourself. Yes, she'd sleep off her fever and be right as rain in the morning. You entertained yourself with such thoughts as you drifted off as well. 

You jolted awake sometime later in the night, some unknown panic clawing in your throat as you bolted out of bed. 

Your mother had stopped breathing. You had felt it. You had felt the stillness of her next to you. You shook her, slowly at first, and then more frantically.

"Mama! Mama! Mama wake up!"

She remained listless, her limp frame rattling like a bag of bones as you shook her harder. Your pleas grew louder as well, your voice rising with every moment that passed. 

"Mama, please. Please, please, please. Please don't leave me. You promised! Remember, you promised that you wouldn't leave me!" you screamed. "You can't break your promise. You'd be a bad mother if you broke your promise...please, I am begging you don't go."

Reality set in soon. Her skin had grown cold. It was clear that she had been gone for a while. You swore at yourself for not waking up sooner, for not going to someone for help earlier, for not doing something. Eventually, you slumped down, throat raw from screaming. The house was indeed empty now, and your mother was a wraith. Your grief was your only companion and it was a quiet needling thing, stripping you raw and ragged from the inside. you wanted to scream but no more sound would come out. You would have to fester in dark silence it seemed. 

In a daze, you wondered if you should go get someone now. It made no sense to, not anymore. What could anyone do now? They'd just come to take her away and then you'd never see her again. You saw how what they did to the dead. They were often burned. Soon there would be nothing left of your mother but ashes. Your mouth tasted like ashes and you had the sudden urge to throw up. Seven years was not nearly enough time to spend with one's mother. You thought you'd have a lifetime. 

You decided not to bother anyone then. You wiped your own tears and lifted the blankets to curl up next to your mother's body, clinging to her, perhaps to share your own warmth with her or perhaps hoping that she'd share her cold emptiness with you. At least then you would receive some relief from the burning agony that lit your heart. With broken syllables, you hummed your favourite lullaby to her, the one she always sang to you, and in that moment, pressed against her ribs, you could pretend that the hollow thud in your own chest came from hers instead. 

You did not know how long you remained there, in the space between wakefulness and sleep, the space where dreams felt like reality and your mother's arms wrapped around you almost as tightly as yours were around her. You did not notice the sun rise in the morning or set again the next evening. The only thing that jolted you out of your reverie was the sharp knock on the door. 

"Anyone home?" 

It was a familiar voice.

"Hello? Sophia's mother sent me with some things," Aethelstan called out from the door, knocking again. "She apologizes for not being able to come herself but something urgent came up."

He said your name a few times too, puzzled at the lack of response. 

You ignored him. There wasn't anything he could do either, and Eadith's medicines would not be of any use anymore. You burrowed deeper into your mother, raising the covers over your face. If you ignored Aethelstan for long enough maybe he'd leave, and then you could be alone with your mother again. 

It worked for a while and no one else bothered you for the rest of the night. However, the next morning there was a larger commotion at the door. Several fists pounded on the door until eventually, they had to break it in. It gave way with a loud crack, and still, you did not acknowledge their presence. The loud voices were inside the house now, as they rummaged through all the rooms of the house, the heavy footsteps growing closer until they finally reached your mother's room. Still, you did not acknowledge their presence. 

Someone said your name, softly at first, and then more insistent. You ignored them. Then suddenly, the covers were ripped off the bed. The sunlight accosted your eyes and you winced. Someone swore and the room burst with activity. 

"By the gods, is she alright? Are they both-?"

It was your father's voice, you realized indifferently. He was finally back. 

He said your name again, more insistently, and you shook your head listlessly, face still tucked into your mother's neck. That minuscule movement was enough though, to confirm that you were still alive. Strong arms peeled your mother's arms back to lift you out of them. It was at that moment when you truly came alive.

"NO!"

You screamed, a terrible ear-piercing shriek. They were your father's arms, as they pried you away from your mother and you shrieked even louder, flailing about desperately. You were downright feral, clawing and biting to get back to your mother. 

"No. Let me go! Let me go back to Mama! I want Mama!"

Several other hands joined your father's in pulling you away. All your father's friends were there, Uhtred and Osferth, and even Sophia's father, Finan was there. They all looked at you with pitying eyes as you thrashed harder, body contorting wildly. Your mother's fingers were clutched tightly in yours and it took several minutes for them to peel you off.

"Don't take her away!" you howled. "She promised she wouldn't leave me! You can't take her away. She wouldn't break her promise, she's not a bad mother!"

"Shhh, darling, she's gone," it was Eadith's gentle voice that broke through your frenzy. 

Sihtric handed your writhing form to her and you immediately slumped in her arms. You did not have the heart to bite and claw at her, not after all she had done. She smoothed her hands over your face gently. 

"Oh, you poor darling girl. I'm so sorry, I should have come earlier," she mumbled softly. 

The time after that was a blur to you as well, lost in your grief and rage. Your mother had only been dead a month before your father married again. You were almost certain it was the woman he had been seeing when your mother had caught him, but you couldn't bring yourself to care anymore. The true fury came when he moved her into your house. The house your mother had died in, the house that you had died in. At first, you refused to live with them. It would be a mockery to your mother's memory, to live in her house with your father and his new whore. That was what she was to you anyways, you never acknowledged her as his wife. Eventually though, even you felt bad imposing on Sophia's family. Despite Finan and Eadith repeatedly assuring you that you could remain with them forever if you wished, you allowed your father to take you home. 

The next few days passed by in a haze and you barely recalled any of it. In the days leading up to and after your mother's funeral, you stayed with Eadith and her family. In any other circumstance, you would have been delighted to spend your days with Sophia, but you spent most of your days curled up in bed. You refused to eat anything, despite Eadith's best efforts and you never spoke a word. You especially refused to see your father, turning your head away from him every time he came to visit and speak to you. 

The next few years passed by quickly as well. Once a lively and energetic child, you withdrew into yourself, but the silent simmering heat burning you from the inside remained. The only people who could ever draw smiles from you were Sophia and Aethelstan, and try they did. They had made it their collective mission to see you in happier spirits. You no longer took fighting lessons from your father, instead joining Sophia's lessons with Finan or Aethelstan's with Uhtred. The chasm between you and your father grew as he began to have more children with his new wife. You watched him be affectionate with them and the bitterness began to poison you from the inside out. You made your disdain for his wife very obvious and the feeling was mutual. You looked too much like your late mother for her to be comfortable in your presence. That paired with your constant reminders that she was the other woman and had only been able to acquire your father because your mother had died, meant that she went out of her way to make things difficult for you. As your father was often away fighting, she ran the household. She made you clean up after your younger half-siblings and do all the chores in the house. Often you escaped, slipping out to spend time with Sophia and Aethelstan, but that meant another screaming match when you returned home. 

Despite your bitterness, you couldn't find it in your heart to hate your half-siblings. By the time you were twelve, you had three. Two brothers and a sister. Your brothers were timid and easy going while your sister was a spitfire. She reminded you of yourself sometimes, often when you sat down to brush the tangles and mud out of her hair as she returned from another grand escapade. You were afraid of yourself sometimes. You were afraid that the poison inside you would come spilling out and taint them. They were innocent, blameless in their conception, and you could not blame them for the sins of their parents. Still, the resentment was difficult to erase. Watching your father spend time with his new family, you felt like an outsider. it felt like watching someone else's happy family through the window, watching how the warmth lit up their eyes while the wind hollowed out your bones and filled your lungs with ice. 

Your father was patient with you, painfully tender as if that would make up for what he did. He never raised his voice at you, even as you threw fits and screamed at both him and your stepmother in the first few years you lived with them. He was kind to you, just as he was with your half-siblings, but the distance was there. He'd avoid looking at you for too long because looking was a painful reminder of what he had lost. Everyone had always said that you were almost an exact carbon copy of your mother, and that was both a comfort and anguish. He treated you as if you were fragile, prone to breaking at any moment. You supposed you were. You felt it yourself sometimes as if you were on the precipice of doing something terrible, of releasing years' worth of resentment in one explosive moment. Your grief walked hand in hand with madness and buried things had an awful way of haunting you. 

Your breaking point came when you were just shy of your fifteenth year. Your stepmother had made you scrub the entire house clean to prepare for your father's return from yet another fighting season. You had done just that, but after you had finished, your sister had run into the house, tracking in mud and debris from the outside. You hadn't been able to clean it up again in time and when your mother returned from her errands, she screamed at you for being lazy and irresponsible as usual. She screamed at you all the time, so that wasn't what made you lose it. It was when she raised her hand and slapped you. The blow came as a surprise and you tasted blood. One of the rings in her fingers had cut you, and your lower lip trickled with crimson. You saw red then as the blood roared in your ears. You let out a string of the worst profanities, calling her all manner of insults. It was your unfortunate luck that it was at that moment that your father chose to return. 

"You will not speak to your mother that way!" he roared. 

"She is not my mother!" you screeched. "Do not ever disrespect my mother again by comparing her to this whore!"

Your father uttered your name, his tone tinged with a warning. 

"Apologize to her," he muttered. "You do not get to speak to her that way."

"Do you even know what she did? Do you even care? No of course you don't. All you care about is your perfect new wife and your perfect new kids. You don't give a fuck about me, just like you didn't give a fuck about my mother!"

"Mind your manners! I am still your father!"

"I'd rather have no father at all than one like you! You killed her, you killed my mother. I wish you had died instead. In fact, I hope your next fight kills you!"

Your stepmother gasped dramatically and your father flinched. His expression grew thunderous and he lifted his hand, almost instinctively. He pulled it back down to his side almost immediately but the damage was done. You looked at him incredulously. 

"You would raise your hand at me?" you whispered in disbelief. "Your whore already hits me at every opportunity, and now you would do? Maybe you should...maybe you should just beat me to death. Maybe it's me who should have died with my mother so that I could at least be with someone who cared about me."

"I-no...I didn't mean-" Sihtric stumbled over his words.

You didn't wait to hear his explanation, stomping out the door and sprinting away. You took refuge in the forest, slumped against your favourite tree as you sobbed. Your wish to remain alone went ungranted as you heard the sound of leaves crunching as someone approached you. A familiar voice mumbled your name. 

"Go away, Sophia!"

"You can't just push people away when you're angry you know."

"I can, and I will."

"Not me," Sophia came over and knelt on the ground next to you. "You can't get rid of me!"

You raised your head to look at her, eyes still swimming with tears, "Why are you here?"

"I saw you run out of your house and head this way. Seemed wise to follow you."

"You can't follow me forever."

"I can certainly try. Now tell me what happened."

You sighed and then straightened up, recounting your story to her, your voice taking on a sharp edge. Sophia nodded sympathetically, and then she pulled out her handkerchief to dab at your lip gingerly. 

"I'm going to leave!" you said suddenly. 

"What?"

"I'm leaving," you said again, more firmly. "I can't stay here anymore."

"You...you can come to live with my family? You know my parents adore you."

"No. I can't stay here, in Rumcofa. I can't watch my father live happily ever after with her new family and I can't watch that horrible witch erase all signs of mother from that house. I can't do it, I won't."

Sophia's brow wrinkled in concern, "Where will you go?"

"Anywhere has to be better than here. I know how to fight, I can go anywhere."

"I don't think-"

"Don't try to talk me out of it Sophia, I've made up my mind. I'm going to go and I'm going to leave tonight?"

"Tonight?" her eyes widened. 

You nodded, "They won't be looking for me for a while. They'll think I got angry and stormed off to your place as usual. That gives me some time."

"What'll you do if they do look for you?"

"I'll be long gone by then."

Sophia was silent for several long moments, pondering something in her head. Then, her eyes lit up and you recognized her expression as one she usually had when she had an idea.

"I'll come with you!" she blurted excitedly. 

"What? No!"

"Yes!"

"Sophia, no!"

"Come on, it'll be perfect! We'll explore the world together. And besides when have I ever not been by your side? Trust me, you need me."

You gaped at her as if she had grown a third eye.

"Are you insane? You have a family. A family who adores you and they would be extremely worried if you just disappeared like that."

"Technically I could say the same about you but it's clear that you're in no mood to listen to anyone. It's final, I'm coming with you!"

"No, I can't let you do that."

"Well, I can't let you go on your own."

"But...your parents...?"

Sophia looked pensive for a moment, "They'll understand. And you're like a daughter to them too. They'll be worried about you so I'm sure they'd be happier knowing we're watching out for each other."

"But you can't leave them!"

After several more rounds of back and forth between the two of you, Sophia jutted out her chin stubbornly. 

"If you refuse to let me come with you, I am going over to your father right now and telling him you're planning to run away!"

"What? You can't do that!"

"Watch me!"

You were silent for several minutes, and then you nodded hesitantly. Sophia's face split into a grin immediately. 

"What about Aethelstan," Sophia winked. "Can't leave him behind. Who knows which fair lady of lovely Rumcofa he might take as his companion if we're not here to keep him company."

Your face warmed immediately at the thought of your friend. He had been one of your best friends but in the past years, your feeling for him had grown into something else, something more. You were too much of a coward, and too consumed with your bitterness to examine those feelings. You had simply buried them somewhere deep inside where they'd never see the light of day. You shook your head frantically.

"We can't tell Aethelstan!" you whisper-yelled. "He's the son of the king and Lord Uhtred's ward. There'd be a whole search party after us if we take him."

Sophia's smile dropped as the reality of what they were about to do set in.

"But...but we can't leave him behind. Should we at least tell him where we're going?"

You shook your head again, "No. He'll only try to talk us out of it."

"But-"

"If you're coming with me, we have to do things my way."

"That's not fair!"

"Then stay here. Where it's safe and familiar, and things are fair," you shrugged. 

Sophia sighed and nodded eventually, "Alright, we'll do things your way."

And that was the beginning of a different life. The two of you left that very night, creeping out of Rumcofa using one of Sophia's father's boats. You had insisted that she write her family a note, telling them that she was safe. you also forbade her from mentioning you in her note, although everyone had known the two of you long enough to know that where one went, the other surely always followed. 

The next few years passed quickly, and both you and Sophia had made quite a name for yourselves and had amassed a small army of sorts. You had formed your own family of sorts, a band of fellow women who had run away from varying circumstances, brought together by fate. Your group of shieldmaidens was famous for protecting villages from raiders. You had taken care to travel far enough that you never ran into your father or any of his men, and over the years the fear of getting caught had worn off. 

You had first heard about Lord Uhtred's fight to retake Bebbanburg through one of your messengers. After much deliberation, you and Sophia had agreed that it would only be right if you joined the fight. Lord Uhtred had always been kind and had taken care of your family ever since you could remember. You remembered him visiting and asking after your mother's health and it was your duty to help him retake his birthright. 

Your army of shieldmaidens did not hesitate to volunteer to fight by your side. They trusted you to lead them and they would stand with you no matter what. You wondered if you'd see your father there. He had to be, he was one of Lord Uhtred's closest friends and if he was still alive, he'd be right there by his side. With a pang of regret, you remembered the last words you had said to him. You had wished for his death and you desperately hoped that the gods had not granted your immature selfish prayer. The years had cooled your anger and you were no longer as bitter. All the women you had met and the stories you had heard made you realize that there were worst fates out there and the sting of poison that ran through your veins became dilute. 

The fight itself was long and hard and you lost quite a few women, all cherished friends and companions. Everyone lost someone in the fight and after all the brave warriors had been honoured and sent on their way to Valhalla, everyone gathered within the newly conquered castle walls to celebrate Lord Uhtred's victory. You had been able to avoid facing anyone you knew so far, but now, as you sat in the corner, allowing Sophia to bandage your injured arm, you could see Lord Uhtred and his men make their way toward you both. 

Finan greeted you first, with a broad grin and a clap on your shoulder. Sophia turned around at his presence and when she saw him she squealed with pleasure.

"Father!" she crowed, throwing her arms around him.

He wrapped his arms around her and lifted her, twirling her slightly, like the used to when she was a child. 

"My girl is a warrior now," he boomed with laughter. "And leading your own army too."

Sophia's smile turned sheepish and she let go of him and lowered her gaze.

"I...I'm sorry Father. I'm sorry for leaving..." she muttered. 

Finan took a deep breath and then exhaled, sighing. He shook his head and patted his daughter's shoulder gently. 

"We will speak of that another time. For now, it is enough that you are safe and whole, and that you're home. You had us very worried you know, your mother especially. She was inconsolable."

"I am so sorry, Father."

As you watched Sophia and her father walk away, presumably to go see her mother and the rest of her family, your eyes stung and you blinked quickly, holding back the sudden onslaught of tears that threatened to spill. You felt bad that Sophia had to leave because of you, but more than that, you felt a pang of hurt at the thought of no one missing you. You had no mother who would be inconsolable at your loss. You busied yourself with the bandage on your arm, not realizing that Uhtred had left as well, leaving you alone with your father. 

Sihtric cleared his throat and you looked up at him in surprise. Both of you were silent for several long moments, neither knowing where to start. Your eyes charted the planes of his face. He looked older, with tired lines around his eyes and mouth. He seemed to have a perpetual furrow in his brow. Now that you had seen him, you were hit with an overwhelming wave of relief. His battles had not taken him from this earth, he was still alive. 

"I...I am sorry."

It was you who had mustered up the courage to speak. You looked him in the eye as you did, shoulders back, eyes blazing with defiance as if daring him to rebuke you. You waited for him to turn his head away, to make some sort of cold remark or something of the sort. He didn't though. He just stared at you and you felt rooted to the ground. Then, wordlessly, he stepped closer and pulled you into his arms. You froze in his embrace and he just held on tighter. You could not see his face but you felt his shoulders tremble and you wondered with some disbelief if he was crying. You patted his back awkwardly. 

"I'm sorry Father... for everything."

Sihtric shook his head and when he pulled away you saw the tears that had tracked down his face and soaked into his beard. He cupped your face with aching tenderness and pressed a kiss to your forehead. 

"I thought I had lost you forever," he whispered. "I thought I would never see you again. You didn't even leave a note."

The tears you had been holding back fell now, and you forced yourself to harden your eyes. 

"I didn't think you'd care," you shrugged.

He thumbed the tears from your face, "I am sorry. I am sorry I ever made you feel that way. I understand if you can never forgive me but you have to know how truly sorry I am. I will spend the rest of my life making it up to you if you let me. Please let me. Please come home."

You avoided his pleading gaze, instead letting your eyes fall on your fellow warriors. 

"I have another family as well now. They need me."

Sihtric's face was crestfallen but he nodded, "Of course. I am proud of you, you know, more than you can imagine. You have become a most fearsome warrior and I am proud to call you my beloved daughter."

"I have another family...but you will always be my father," you finally said. "The first family I ever knew. You will always have a part of my heart."

It was you who fell into his embrace this time and you could feel his joy in the way his arms wrapped around you. 

"I understand that you have another place now, but know that you will always have a place with me, should you ever wish to return," he mumbled and then he hesitated. "And...you should visit. Your siblings have missed you dearly."

"I suppose a visit won't hurt."

Sihtric chuckled and pulled away, clapping your shoulder, "We have much else to talk about, I have much else to apologize for...but for now, I think there is someone else who wishes for your attention."

He gestured toward the tall boy watching you from across the courtyard and when you caught his eye, his eyes turned cold and he turned away. 

"Ouch," you muttered.

"The two of you left him behind," Sihtric explained. "You cannot blame the poor boy for feeling hurt. Now go, make things right."

He nudged you toward Aethelstan's disappearing form with a wink and he was gone before you could question his action. You turned around to make your way toward your friend, waking fast to catch up. 

"Aethelstan!" you called after him.

At first, you thought that he didn't hear you because he didn't turn around, but then he started to walk away faster. He walked right out the front gates and into the field beyond. You dropped your sword in the grass and chased after him.

"Damnit Aethelstan, slow down!"

Your words only spurred him on, but by now you were fully sprinting after him. You caught up in a matter of moments, grabbing his arm to pull him to a halt. He kept his back to you so you circled him, meeting him face-to-face for the first time in years. His eyes remained glued to the floor you crossed your arms in frustration. 

"You won't even say hello?" you asked furiously.

He did not respond. You pinched the bridge of your nose and sighed. 

"Go away," he finally muttered, his voice sharp. "I don't want to talk to you."

"No, I will not! Why are you running from me? You were my dearest friend, and now you won't even look at me."

Aethelstan's eyes finally met hers, burning with emotion, "You're no friend of mine!"

You flinched, "Hey...that's not fair."

"Friends don't do what you did. Friends don't abandon friends!"

"I never wanted to hurt you," you pleaded, reaching out to him but he took a step back, avoiding your touch. "I had to go."

Aethelstan shook his head, "I don't want to hear your excuses. You told Sophia and took her with you, but you didn't even bother leaving me a note? You clearly didn't think of me as a friend so why should I?"

"I couldn't take you with me. You know that."

"You could have at least asked. You could have at least let me know!"

"It all happened so fast, I didn't get a chance. I-I am sorry."

"Don't bother apologizing. You don't owe me anything," he shrugged. "It won't change the past."

"No...but it's a start. I should have told you that I was leaving. I should have explained why I had to go. I never meant to hurt you, and I'm truly sorry for the pain I caused."

"You treated me like I meant nothing to you. Now you have to accept that you're nothing to me."

Tears welled up in your eyes, "You mean everything to me, Aethelstan. You're my dearest friend, and I never wanted to lose that."

"You left without saying a word. We were supposed to share everything. But you abandoned me, just like that. How dare you say that I mean something to you?"

"Please..."

Aethelstan shook his head, his eyes firm, "We are not friends. Not anymore."

"That's not fair!" you protested, voice breaking. "After all these years, after everything we've been through together, you're going to dismiss our friendship like it never meant a thing?"

"It's the truth. I can't forget the way I felt. Do you even know what I went through on my own, without you there."

The two of you stood there, locked in a tense silence. You refused to give up, your determination fueled by the urge to make things right with him, no matter what it took. You felt desperate. You couldn't lose him. Not when you had spent every day of the past few years thinking about him. 

"Fine," you said finally, voice steady and shoulders slumped. "If you don't want to call me your friend, then I'll respect that. But I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me one day. Please, give me a chance to fix this."

Aethelstan did not respond, expression guarded. You nodded, mostly to yourself and turned around, starting to walk back to where the others were. Disappointment churned in your gut and you felt sick. You had quite possibly ruined one of your most cherished relationships due to your own stupidity. You pressed your lips tightly against each other to prevent them from trembling. You knew that he did not owe you forgiveness. Whether or not an apology was accepted was entirely up to the person one had hurt and if Aethelstan decided never to forgive you, there was nothing you could do about it. Just the thought of it made your heartache.

Just then, a hand landed on your shoulder, making you stop in your tracks. You turned out, bewildered. Once Aethelstan caught sight of your reddened face, his eyes widened.  

"What's wrong with you? Why're you crying?"

You hastily swiped your hands under your eyes, shaking your head, "I'm not."

He raised an eyebrow sardonically, "You have always been a terrible liar."

You shrugged. 

"I don't know if I can forgive you," he admitted after several seconds of silence. "But I'll try."

Your eyes brightened and your lips lifted upward. You weren't a hopeless case after all.

"But I don't think we can ever be friends again," he quickly pointed out, making you deflate again. 

"Right. Of course. I understand. I'll take what I can get and you are under no obligation to...to be my friend. Just your forgiveness alone is enough."

Athelstan watched you with a peculiar expression, halfway between amused and concerned. 

"I don't think I can go back to being just friends with you."

"By the gods, I know! You don't have to keep saying it like it'll hurt any less."

He outright laughed then, and you bristled. You glared at him.

"What I meant, silly girl, is that I can't go back to being just friends when I think of you as more than that."

Oh.

Oh.

"Yeah," he reached out to brush the tears from your lashes. "So stop moping about like it's the end of the world."

He turned around and jogged back to the courtyard where everyone was gathered, leaving you to marvel at the latest development of things on your own. 

[magravenwrites]

Finan Masterlist:

Oneshots:

A Good Place to Start (Finan x OC)

Just Give it Time (Finan x Fem!Reader)

The One Where Ethy Finds Out (Finan x OC)

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3

The Ghosts of Christmas' Past (Finan x Eadith)

Do Not Go Where I Cannot Follow (Finan x Fem!Reader)

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 [coming soon]

[persephones-journey]

As The Gods Make It

Hello, so this is another prompt from @morosemagick Songs of the Unbroken Celebration Challenge. 

All right, so first warning this oneshot has Smut in it; it’s got oral (female receiving), fingering, sexual intercourse (between a man and woman), so if this is not your thing, please skip. 

Tagging: @emilyhufflepufftlk @medievalfangirl @lauwrite1225 @93xdiagonxalley 

@blah-blah-blah-bla @solinarimoon 

This one shot is for the Last Kingdom (honestly have I written anything that hasn’t been about that? No, I have not) and it has, yeah, you know, Finan. It also has my OC Aisling.  And this one shot is about Finan coming to the future to be with Aisling. 

So enjoy.

Aisling took the stairs up to her loft slowly. She stopped when she heard the guitar coming from her place. She leaned against the wall in the stairwell and closed her eyes.

It was Finan.

It was always Finan.

She thought back to the morning seven months before when she has opened her eyes and rolled over in bed and found the man lying there beside her.

“HOLY SHIT!” she screamed as she jumped out of bed.

The man with the kindest warmest shade of brown eyes she had ever seen looked at her as he sat up. Her eyes trailed down to his bare shoulders and chest. She swallowed the lump in her throat as her eyes followed the dark chest hair on his chest, down his stomach as it disappeared below her sheets. He held up his hands.

“Calm down,” he said softly.

“Calm down?! How did you get in here?! Who are you?!” she demanded her heart pounding in her chest.

He opened his left hand and out fell her Celtic cross pendant. She touched her chest and frowned. She was still wearing it. She looked at him. He had tears in his eyes.

“Freyja sent me, Aisling,” he whispered. “We didn't get enough time together. You,” he shook his head. He smirked and Aisling's heart skipped a beat. “I am going about this all wrong. I'm Finan.”

Her ocean blue eyes took him in. “How did you know my name?” she asked feeling much calmer than she had before. She didn’t know why but his voice and his presence calmed her and felt right. Him being there made her feel safe. 

He gave her a sad smile. “I will always know the name of the woman I love.”

And that was when things went wrong right away.

Aisling did not know how to deal with a man who was completely and utterly in love with her.

No one had ever loved her before.

No one had ever even tried.

And Finan, the poor man could not understand why her walls were so high and so thick.

So she avoided him by going to her classes and going to work at the bar she lived above of.

And he picked up her Nan's old guitar and toyed with it. Along with learning all he could about this new world he had been dropped into from watching the television and reading the papers and everything he could. And just last month, he had gotten a job at the same bar, washing the dishes.

But they barely spoke any longer.

So Finan has suggested getting his own place.

The minute the words were out of his mouth, Aisling wanted him to forget them.

Then she realized that she just wanted him.

“Fuck,” she muttered as she rested her head against the wall. “I think I love him.”

No, don't lie. You know you love him. The moment he suggested leaving, you saw your life go back to how it was before; silence, books, research, emptiness. Now though, with Finan, even though you barely talk, there is someone always there. He makes you coffee in the morning, he runs a bath for you after you've spent half the night on your feet. And he sits in the quiet with you. Your favourite time is when you sit against him reading your textbooks and he has his arm around your shoulders gently rubbing your arm and kissing your head every once and a while as he reads or watches television.  

Aisling opened her eyes and continued up the stairs. She got to her door and opened it slowly. She slipped inside and smiled. Finan was still strumming the guitar. She kicked off her sneakers and walked into the large living room. She leaned in the doorway and watched Finan.

He had the guitar on his thigh and had his cheek resting against the curve in it as he strummed it. He turned and looked at her. Aisling, you are a blind fool. Look at him. How is it you have gone seven months without jumping him and having your way with him? You are insane. He put it aside and stood from the chair.

“I,” he stopped, “I found a place,” he said.

No. I can't let him walk out the door.

“When would you be leaving?” she asked.

“Next week,” he said.

No, no, no, no.

“I'll-,” Finan started.

“Freyja sent you here,” Aisling cut him off. “Why?” she asked.

He looked at her. She took in his green t-shirt and light wash blue jeans. He only had socks on his feet and his hair was all messy meaning he hadn't been out all day.

“What?” he asked.

“You have never told me why Freyja sent you. I want to know.”

She watched as Finan reached up and scratched his beard. “I,” he looked away from her, “I went to her shrine in Norway.”

She looked at him and waited several moments. He didn't say anything more. “Finan, I want the whole story.”

He cursed in Irish. “Why?” he demanded. “Why suddenly now do you want to know?”

“Because I don't want you to leave!” she yelled.

Silence echoed around them. Aisling stood straight. She looked at Finan. He was watching her intently.

“Say it again,” he said as he took a step towards her.

“Stay,” she answered as she took a step towards him as well. “Stay, Finan.”

“Why?” he asked softly.

She walked towards him and he towards her. They met in the middle of the room. Aisling looked in his brown eyes and saw nothing but love in them. She tossed her hair over her shoulder and looked at him.

“Because I love you,” she whispered looking in his eyes. “I don't want you to leave because I love you, Finan. I-.”

He kissed her. Her words were drowned out by his mouth over hers. She wrapped her arms around his waist and pulled him closer. The kiss was slow and soft with his lips gently pressed against hers. She opened her lips and sucked on his bottom lip. The kiss felt so right and so perfect. Aisling had never felt this way before about anything, let alone one kiss. Finan's lips on hers sparked a fire inside of her and she needed all of him. She felt his hands run down her sides to her ass. He gripped it in both hands and pulled her hips closer to his. She moaned when she felt his cock growing hard. She dug her fingers in his sides and felt her core ache and throb.

“Say it again,” he said pulling his lips away from hers. She moved her head to claim them again but he held them back. “Say it again, Aisling,” he whispered her name his accent making it sound like it was always meant to.

“I love you,” she said opening her eyes and looking into his.

He smiled and Aisling's heart beat faster. “I love you too, my beautiful, perfect dream made real,” he said.

Aisling wrapped her arms around Finan's neck when he pulled her close and kissed her again. He sucked on her bottom lip and lifted her up with his hands on her thighs. She wrapped her legs around his waist and held on to him tight. She smiled when he backed up and pressed her against the wall. She raked her fingers through his hair and kissed him over and over. Every kiss stoked the fire burning in her and made her ache more for him and his touch. She wanted, no needed all of him. She ached for him to be inside of her. After several moments, she pulled away to breathe and rested her forehead against his. He smiled and she felt his hands grip her thighs tight.

“Tell me how you ended up here, Finan,” she whispered as she ran her hands down his neck. “And how did you know who I was.”

She watched as he looked at her. “I don't want to lose you,” he whispered.

She leaned in and kissed him again. “You won't,” she promised. “Just tell me how you came to love me.”

Finan's brown eyes filled with tears. “The curse is real, Aisling, the curse from Skade is real and you tried to break it,” he said.

Aisling felt her heart beat faster. “But?”

“But instead you ended up outside of Coccham. Sihtric found you and you told us who you were and we believed you. Well, Uhtred did,” Finan said. She saw him look at her, taking in every feature of her face. “And you and I fell in love.”

Aisling looked at him. She stroked his bearded cheek. “I have the feeling you are skipping a whole lot of story there.”

Finan smiled. He shook his head. His eyes took her in like he was seeing her again for the very first time. “God, I had not realized how much I had missed this, missed you,” he said tears rolling down his cheeks. “Being here with you and not being able to hold you and love you.”

“I'm sorry,” she said as she stroked his cheeks and brushed his tears away.

“No, don't be, you didn't,” he closed his eyes. She saw pain flash across his face. And she knew without him saying it that he had lost her before he had been ready to. “Aisling, you died,” he whispered.

Aisling looked at him. You died. The words settled inside of her. She watched as he opened his eyes and looked into hers. She saw that he wasn't lying. She pushed him away and he set her on her feet and she pulled away from him. She closed her eyes and stood in the middle of the room. Her childhood nightmare suddenly came crashing into her mind from where she had buried it years before.

“It was in a battle,” she said. “I saw the man coming for you and you couldn't hear me screaming. So, I ran and knocked you out of the way and his axe got buried in my chest.”

Silence echoed in the room. She opened her eyes and turned to look at Finan. He was watching her confused and in awe.

“Yes,” was all he said.

She nodded and laughed. “My nightmare. I had it all my life for as long as I could remember,” she looked at him. “But you, I could never see you. You were a shadow. A voice screaming my name begging me to stay with you.”

She saw the pain in his eyes. “I screamed for what felt like hours. You died in my arms and took my will to live with you.”

She looked at him. She did not know how, but she could feel his love for her. Her body remembered every touch, every kiss, every caress, like he had been holding her and loving her for years; and he hadn't yet. She felt her own tears begin to fall. “And you found a way back to me.”

He nodded. “Freyja. She was the one who made it so we will always find each other, Aisling. I left Wessex and went to Norway. I found her shrine and I offered myself up as sacrifice and woke up in your bed. She brought me back to you this time.”

Aisling let her tears fall. “Stay with me! Do not leave me! Aisling! I love you!NONONONO!” His voice filled her head. His voice that was filled with sheer pain and anguish. She had convinced herself the voice was not real, could never be real, because no one could ever love her like that. She remembered those nightmares. They had terrorized her and she had spent years going to doctors taking medications but nothing worked. She would have them on and off for years. Until she turned sixteen and they disappeared for good.

Now she knew it wasn't a nightmare. But a memory.

A memory of a past life.

And standing before her was her soulmate in every lifetime.

Thanks to the will of a goddess and Finan's strength on conviction that he would find her again.

“Aisling?” he asked softly.

She ran and threw herself in his arms. He held her tight and close. She rested her head on his chest and listened to his heart beat. She felt his arms hold her tighter. She closed her eyes and felt him bury his face in her hair.

“You were real,” she said softly.

He nodded. “I was and am,” he answered. He kissed the crown of her head. “I once told you I would love you for a thousand years, Aisling. And you laughed,” he pulled away and cupped her face in his hands. “I was right.”

Aisling laughed. She shook her head. “Smug Irish bastard,” she muttered.

He smiled. And Aisling felt her heartbeat faster. He smiled a true smile, one he had been hiding from her since he had gotten here. She fell in love all over again. “God, have I missed those words coming from that perfect mouth.”

Aisling stood on her tiptoes and let her lips ghost his. “You know what else my mouth is perfect for, right?” she asked smirking.

Finan groaned and pulled her closer and kissed her. It was a messy kiss filled with want and need. “I have even missed that,” he said as he kissed her again and again.

Aisling gripped his t-shirt and pulled him towards her bedroom. She pushed it up and moaned against his lips as her hand touched his stomach. The minute her fingers brushed his skin, she felt a spark. She looked in his eyes as she pulled away. He pulled his t-shirt off and tossed it aside. She pulled off her long sleeved shirt as well and smiled when he pulled her back in his arms. She placed her hands on his chest and sighed. He laughed.

“Have you been waiting to do that for a while?” he asked as he kissed her neck and placed his hand on her lower back as he backed her into her bedroom.

“Shut up,” she said as she grabbed his jeans and turned them around so he was the one backing into the room.

Finan nipped her neck and moaned. “I have missed you ordering me around. Fuck, Aisling, I missed every moment we shared.”

Aisling shoved him and smiled as he fell on the bed. She walked over and straddled him. She kissed him deeply. She felt his hands grab her ass again and run up her back. Every time his hands touched her bare skin, she felt heat pool in her core and it ached more and throbbed. She wanted him, she needed him. She felt him undo her bra and she pulled away as he pulled it off and tossed it aside. She moaned into his lips as his hands gently caressed her breasts.

“You don't have to miss another moment ever again, Finan,” she said as she ran her hands down his back. She felt his scars and ached for him. “I am here,” she said as she kissed him again. “I am here and you won't be without me again.”

She smiled as Finan turned and dumped her on the bed. She looked into his eyes, they were almost black with desire. She arched her back against him as he kissed along her jawline and to her neck. She ran her hands down his chest to his jeans. She made quick work of the button and pulled the zipper down. She moaned as he sucked on her skin of her neck and nipped at it. She slipped her hand inside and moaned when she felt that he was not wearing underwear. He smiled against her skin.

“You won't be without me again either,” he whispered in her ear. “Now, I have waited months for this,” he nipped her ear lobe. “I want to taste you.”

Aisling felt herself get even wetter and did not know how that was possible. She rested her hands on Finan's chest and nodded. She felt him smile against her skin again and he placed hot kisses along her neck. He moved much too slow for her liking but every kiss he pressed to her skin, lit up her nerve endings. She felt pleasure and warmth spread all over. His weight over her gently pressed her into the bed and she loved it. She felt his hand ran down her side and to her jeans. He undid the button and slowly pulled down the zipper as he kissed in between her breasts.

“Finan,” she moaned as she felt his hands tug on her jeans. She looked down and saw his dark eyes look up and meet hers. “You're moving too slow,” she whimpered.

She felt him smile against her stomach. He gently licked her skin and she moaned. He kissed lower his eyes never leaving hers. “I am taking my time because I want to remember every single moment of this,” he answered as he let his tongue run along her skin right above her panties. Aisling whimpered again and arched against him. He chuckled. “God, you never were a patience one when it came to my tongue.”

“I want you,” she huffed.

She felt him kiss her stomach again. “All right, love,” he said and Aisling felt her heart beat faster at him calling her love. There was something about the way he said it with that damn accent of it. It was soft like a caress to her skin, but this one for her ears. It was heavy with meaning though, she was his love. She was his.

She whimpered when Finan pulled his body away from hers. She rested her head on the bed when he pulled off her socks and then tugged her jeans down. She lifted her head when he did not immediately pull her panties down. She watched as he pulled off his socks and pushed his jeans down and kicked them off. Her eyes followed that patch of hair down his belly and his abs, and lower past his belly button. She bit her lip when she took him in; thick and long. She looked back up and met his eyes.

“Fuck,” he said. “That look I have missed more than anything else.”

Aisling smiled. She watched as he fell to his knees by the bed. He tugged her closer to the edge of the bed. She let her head fall back as his thumbs hooked under the band of her panties and he tugged them down. He pulled them off. Aisling opened her legs and moaned when Finan gently ran his fingers up her legs from her ankles to her thighs. His touch was soft and gentle. He pressed gently in certain spots, like behind her knees, and he pressed his lips to the skin on her thighs.

“Oh god,” she muttered as she felt Finan's beard rub against her thighs. She felt him smile against her skin and his tongue gently lick her skin. “You Irish bastard,” she muttered as she covered her face with her hands.

Finan kissed, oh so slowly, closer to where she desperately wanted him. She moaned his name and felt herself ache and throb for him. She huffed out a breath when Finan's lips and tongue finally touched her core. She closed her eyes and reached out and grabbed the comforter with her hands. She fisted it as Finan's tongue teased her clit and his lips sucked on her folds. She arched her back as she felt the tension building. She felt him slid one finger and than another in her knuckle deep. She moaned his name.

“Fuck me,” she moaned as Finan's tongue finally stopped teasing her and began licking her clit. He stroked her and crooked his fingers in just the right way, that every stroke sent pleasure waves over Aisling. He began sucking her clit at the same time and Aisling could barely breathe. She reached down and pulled Finan's hair as she felt the tension build more. She looked down and saw him look up at her. His eyes held hers as the tension finally broke and she fell off into the pleasure.

“Finan,” she moaned his name as the breath left her lungs and her whole body tensed for a moment. She closed her eyes and saw stars as her body trembled and she seemed to float away and than slowly back to herself. She felt Finan's fingers still stroking her as she came back to herself. She stroked his hair with her fingers and opened her eyes. She looked at him as his eyes watched her.

“God, you are still so goddamn beautiful when you come,” he said as he removed his fingers from her. She whimpered as he licked them. She sat up and reached for him. She kissed him, tasting herself on his lips, as he wrapped his arms around her. She wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him close.

“Do you want to be on top?” Finan asked as he kissed along her jaw.

Aisling looked at him. “God, do you have to be so perfect?” she asked as he held her close and turned them so he was sitting on the bed. She straddled his lap with her knees on the bed on either side of him and stroked his beard. She saw him smile and her heartbeat faster. “Fuck, you are gorgeous,” she said kissing him. She felt his hands grip her ass and she moaned. “How did I not notice it before?” she asked as she ran her hands down his chest, her fingers gently stroking the hair she found there.

Finan laughed and Aisling felt him nip her lips. “Can we discuss later how blind you are? Right now, I am trying to bed ya, love, if you haven't noticed,” he said as his fingers dug into her ass cheeks.

Aisling smiled. She ran her hands down his chest and lower. She took his cock in one hand and stroked him. She kissed him on the lips softly. “Have you been with anyone else?” she asked softly.

“No,” he answered. “Not since you,” he looked in her eyes. “I only wanted you.”

Aisling nodded. “Than we don't need a condom, since I am on the pill,” she saw Finan frown. She smiled. “I will explain that later.”

Finan kissed her. “Bring me where I belong, love,” he said his lips ghosting hers, “bring me home.”

Aisling stroked him again and looked down. She moved closer and positioned him right at her entrance. Finan moved his hands to her hips as his tip entered her. She kissed him and let go of his cock as she felt him sink into her and stretch her. She rested her forehead against his once he was completely inside of her. She opened her eyes and looked into his. Finan met her eyes as well.

“You're home,” she whispered.

He smiled. He rolled his hips and Aisling moaned. She wrapped her arms around his neck and ran her fingers through his hair. She rolled her hips with his and could feel the tension beginning to build again. She moaned and let her head fall back. She felt Finan's lips and tongue on her neck and collarbones. He nipped gently at the skin as he moved his hips and pulled her hips against his. He set a comfortable pace for them and Aisling had to admit there was something that felt so familiar about making love to him.

The feeling of him inside of her, pulsating and stroking her, his body against hers skin to skin. It felt like too much and not enough at the same time. She let her head fall forward and she claimed Finan's lips in a messy kiss as she felt his fingers digging into her skin. Everywhere his skin touched hers a fire ignited her nerve endings and she felt warmth spread across her skin. She dug her fingernails into his shoulders and neck as she let her teeth bit his lower lip.

“God, I love you,” he muttered in Irish as he moved one of his hands from her hips to in between them.

She moaned as he began to stroke her clit. “And I love you,” she whispered her voice hushed and raspy.

Aisling could feel the sweat on her body and Finan's. She leaned down and bit his neck right where his pulse was. She sucked on the skin there and felt Finan begin to move his hips faster against hers. The warmth and heat that had spread across her body seemed now to pool in her stomach as she felt the tension build more and her gut began to tighten the closer she got. She bit on his skin harder and moved to his ear. She nipped his ear lobe as she felt his cock twitch inside of her and the feeling of his hips stuttering as he came.

“That's right,” she whispered in his ear, “fill me up and claim me as yours. Harder, lover, fuck me harder,” she muttered feeling her release coming.

She felt Finan wrap an arm around her waist and he held her close as his hips snapped into hers. He thumb moved quickly rubbing her clit. She moaned in his ear as she came the tension finally snapping. She held him close as her body trembled and her toes curled. She felt him release inside of her as her walls clenched around him and spasmed. She huffed and tried to catch her breath as her heart pounded in her chest. She nuzzled her face in his neck and was grateful he held her against him otherwise she felt like she would have melted to the floor.

“I forgot all about that mouth you have,” he muttered as he gently brushed the hair away from her neck and his fingers caressed her skin.

She smiled against his skin. “It's how the gods made me,” she whispered. She felt him tense up for a moment. She pulled away and met his eyes. “What?” she asked.

He shook his head. “Nothing, love, nothing at all,” he leaned in and kissed her soft and gently before he laid back on the bed with her on top of him. She smiled as he held her against him. “I think now is the perfect time to discuss exactly how blind you were before.”

Aisling laughed. She kissed his neck. “Before round two, right?” she asked.

Finan nodded. “Oh definitely. I hope you did not have any plans for tonight or tomorrow because you are not leaving this bed until I have made you scream my name multiple times.”

Aisling looked at his eyes and watched them darken with desire. She pressed her lips to his in a messy kiss. “You promise?” she asked as she ran her hand through his hair.

“I swear it,” he answered.

She kissed him and moved to straddle him. She felt him grow inside of her and she pushed herself up so she was sitting on his lap. She looked at him beneath her.

“Good, because I think I can make you scream my name as well,” she answered.

Finan smirked and Aisling sighed. He is perfect and by the gods, he is mine. And he is mine forever.

[little-moonbeam-666]

alright, so here's the oneshot idea/request (if that's ok) I had in mind for modern!osferth x reader:

reader is Finan's younger sister and also a working waitress by day. by night, however, she'll sometimes stay with other men at motels in order to get some money for her family, he supportive. one day, that all changes though when she's introduced to a close friend of finan's, osferth. she starts getting close with him and gaining feelings, hasn't felt anything like this in a long while. they end up having fun little dates, he'll take her out of town, chill by the lake. but what if trouble starts disturb them, can her happiness last with a man she wants to be with forever?

of course, I can definitely see smut but also some good ol fluff and some angst too. lemme your thoughts! I'd love to hear them. :)

I love this idea lol Like I can just imagine Os taking the reader on super cute little dates and the whole fic just being super fluffy. Although I will admit I'm not sure what you meant by "trouble starting to disturb them" lol

[starlight-starbright1918]

masterlist

smut 🥵 fluff 💕 angst ⚡️ personal favourite *

Steve/Bucky Oneshots

fight to the finish ⚡️

shall we play a game?

the sun and the black hole part one part two ⚡️*

James Barnes is a monster.

Or at least, that's what HYDRA made him. Natasha says that he can be something different, that he can be good again, but how can he be good again when Steve was all the good he had?

you were made for me ⚡️

they deserve that—to be together, to be happy.

you were all I ever longed for 🥵💕

Bucky knows the best ways to pull Steve apart, and put him back together.

make ups and make outs ⚡️🥵

Steve and Bucky have a fight.

of thunderstorms and seances 💕

Bucky opens his home when Steve locks himself out during a thunderstorm.

bad days 💕

some days are worse than others.

rain and pizza part one part two ⚡️

Steve and Bucky broke up two months ago.

silence in the library 💕

Steve and Bucky are brought together by an interesting event in the campus library.

cookies and coffee 🥵⚡️

Steve takes shifts at the cookie shop on campus.

the mission 🥵⚡️

“They knew we were coming. It was a trap.”

like a drum (baby don’t stop beatin’) ⚡️💕🥵*

Bucky returns to find something very wrong with Steve.

blessed be the boys time can’t capture 💕🥵

Steve works at a tattoo shop after being discharged from the military and he's been looking for Bucky Barnes for two years with no luck until James walks into his store. Feels, fluff, movie nights, and sex ensue.

unstable 💕🥵*

He takes comfort in the strong hands protecting him from the chill, from the monsters in his head. They still have no clue what’s coming.

there’s more to living (than being alive) 💕🥵*

“If I’d known all I had to do was get beat up for you to come find me, I’d’ve done it months ago, Buck.”

self-starter 💕

“I’ll always come for you,” Steve murmurs. “’Till the end of the line, Buck.”

flaws ⚡️🥵

Tony tells Bucky about Steve and how Cap handles missions. It doesn't go over well.

underneath the water 💕🥵

Steve an Bucky are on separate missions when Steve has a nightmare.

let the ocean take me ⚡️🥵

Bucky has been recovering for months but seems to be more closed off than ever. Steve gets back from a mission and everything changes.

you can make it (to the sunrise) ⚡️🥵💕

Bucky is an ex-marine going back to college where he meets Steve Rogers—the hot guy in his 8am math class. Steve is an artist who drinks too much coffee and gets sick a lot.

Steve/Bucky Series

Goner (wip) 🥵⚡️*

Steve meets Bucky through a pen pal program, and their relationship grows from there.

1 2 3 4

my sun, my moon 🥵⚡️*

a soulmate AU where Steve is a warlock adopted into a werewolf pack after the death of this parents and Bucky is a werewolf from a mysterious background taken into Steve's pack.

part one part two

dead inside ⚡️🥵*

Zombie apocalypse fic with lots of angst, pain, regret, and love.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14

dog tags ⚡️🥵*

"Prove it—prove you’re my friend, prove I was who you say I am, prove I’m anything but the gunmetal in my mouth and the slaughter to my name." Steve just reaches up and removes the dog tags from around his neck and presses them, gently, into Bucky’s open palm.

1 2 3

fire alarms ⚡️🥵

Something sets the fire alarm of and, thankfully, Steve forgets his room key.

1 2 3 4

Finan x Reader Oneshots

are you mine? ⚡️🥵

Your life had been rather simple until tragedy struck and you were taken in by Uhtred. Years later, you have sworn yourself to him and his cause, traveling and fighting with his men.

Finan x Reader Series

sometimes you meet the right people at the wrong times (wip) ⚡️🥵*

You and Finan dated for six years throughout high school and college. When Finan moves to Ireland, he breaks it off and three years later, appears back in your life. You’re still in love with him, but you refuse to allow him back in your life. Can Finan change your mind, or will you finally move on?

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Eskel x Reader Series

what it cost series

the death of peace of mind (PT I) ⚡️💕🥵*

You’re a witch, a healer, and you’ve been traveling with Geralt for a long time. This winter, he’s decided to return to Kaer Morhen with you in tow. Along the way, you meet one of his brothers, and your relationship only grows from there.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

careful what you wish for (PT II) ⚡️💕🥵

You follow Eskel along the path.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10