#thorfinn karlsefni x reader

[shinjisdone]

𝑇𝜎 𝑆𝜎𝑓𝜏𝜀𝜋 𝛼 𝑊𝛼𝑟𝑟𝜄𝜎𝑟’𝑠 𝐻𝜀𝛼𝑟𝜏 (Vinland Saga; Thorfinn - 𝑺𝒍𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝑨𝒓𝒄, 𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝟏)

In which you have joined Askeladd’s band…and grow closer to the Son of Thors - though as your future seemed promising, his thirst for revenge devastated all that you had left.

[Headcanons of how it would be like to meet Thorfinn again after he shattered your heart (based on season 2; both platonic and romantic)

Sᴇᴀsᴏɴ ₁ ﹙Wᴀʀ Aʀᴄ﹚ is here

Part 2: - (Thorfinn trying to accept your existence as a slave)

Part 3: - (Thorfinn finding a reason to live, you finally see him)

Part 4: - (A promise to keep living and buying your freedom)

Tag list:

@luopenis , @jinsecho , @mitsureigen , @theknightssecrets , @lana-del-stan , @theghostofanficpresent

[Mentions of murder, death, war, slave trade, harrasment against women and whatever awful things happened in the viking era. Slavery will be a main subject throughout the entire arc. Mostly gender-neutral examples but female-leaning ones are there, too.]

[This part will specifically mention: Nightmares, detailed gore and killing, slavery, humiliation, hallucinations, slight romanticization of death/wishing someone to be dead, slight panic]

Time And Time Again, My Hopes Are Gone...

Far west, across the sea is a land. Rich of fertile ground and warm all year round. He can see the stillness of the meadow as the wind softly blows through the trees.

The wilderness is untouched. Far away from slave traders and the flames of war. The sun is benign with its rays that gently fall on his skin. It's warm and quiet. A gale so soft it embraces his throbbing pain.

Far to the west, across the rich and green hill, is a figure drawing closer. Colors clashing with the soft sky and land, washed out compared to the world around him. Nevertheless, he feels his heart picking up on speed and appraoches the figure with painstakingly slow steps.

The colors and the gear are still the same. Old and bented, abused and dull and so was the glare in their eyes. He should not feel a thing here, knowing this gaze all too well, but it still festered fear inside his heart when it is directed at him. The clear blue sky grows red and the sun fled.

Still, somehow he was able to crack a strained, faltering smile. "...What are you doing here?" He needed to take a deep breath, "You still look the same...like yesterd-"

"What the hell are you talking about, dog?"

The feigning smile was wiped off his face in an instant as his eyes widened. He could feel his muscles aching again, his stomach grumbling, his heart shattering.

You looked at him with such distain in your eyes.

It's Like A Never-Ending Marathon...

"How can you even act like this? Does all of this mean nothing to you?"

His breath hitched in his throat, burning hot and sickening as the quietness of the world was cut down by the incoming roars emerging from the scenery behind you. Pumping up their spears and axes, they tainted the meadow red as small figures galloped across the sky. The fires were following closely after them.

"You left...left me, and left this massacre behind you as you trailed over the sea."

Chants of victories rung in his ears as the flames consumed the both of you. The herd of men loud and clear but always seemed too far to touch and reach. There you still stood, your glare as dark as thunder and never-changing.

"Coward. Deranged mutt. Calling yourself a warrior."

Jaw agape, he watched with white, bulging eyes the scene behind you. It was all too familiar that it should have kick in an instinct - but all he could feel was terror.

With a swift pull to your back, you drew the blade out before plunging it with a sprint down to his abdomen. He barely could let out a scream. Instead, wide agape, he looked down with darting eyes to see his father's dagger.

A crooked grin decorated your visage as you twisted the dagger, cut further, deeper horizontally before yanking it out. Blood tainted your skin.

He could feel himself fall. Fall longer, deeper, faster, down, down, down, and down before a scream pulled him out.

I Hear Voices Every Night Of The Ones I Left Behind...

The same quietness he dreamed about surrounds him in the hut. No, a barn it was. It didn't have a door and he constantly reeked of hay and manure.

Right - this was the barn on the farm.

Sluggishly, he got up as pieces of hay fell off his worn out tunic. With a slow and steady gate his legs carried him to the well standing still and cold in the early morning, the sun having risen just a moment ago as well. He reached out with rough and calloused hands to the cold water and splashed it on his face. Always three times at least as the master told him. With each splash, his mind and vision got clearer and finally, he breathed freely.

What a strange nightmare. This hollow feeling expanding in his heart remained even in the waking world but he cannot recall from what.

As the sun rose higher, he made his way over the dirty, sandy road. Not a lot of the others were up and about as he was, though he only paid attention to the forest further away. The tired mutters of greetings flew over him, like a leaf in the cold wind. All he needed was the axe.

The axe cuts. It hits the sturdy trunk, chopping it away bit by bit, splinters of wood occasionally digging into his skin. Though it was as thick as the trees themselves, so no one ever heard a complaint from him.

The axe cuts. No tree shrieks in pain nor does anyone raise a brow at the lone man in the forest letting one tree fall after another. It keeps him awake and his muscles at work.

The axe cuts. The trees die and fall like flies, slowly - as it is with tree felling, he was told - down to every last twig and root it bears. Nothing can be left behind as the master wished it. All needs to be cleaned off the land so he can use it. So he cut and cut and cut.

"Thorfinn!"

Thorfinn halted. Stopped in his tracks as he was told and looked up through lidded, droopy, brown eyes. In the distance he saw a hand waving as the master galloped closer and with him, a younger slave.

Getting off the mount, he steadied his fall. Master Ketil was an older and seasoned farmer. His blonde hair growing thinner, broad but kind face decorated with wrinkles and his wealth showing in his round stomach. Once again, as he often does, he approached Thorfinn with a smile. "You will be getting a friend." Then he pointed behind him and the youngling followed hastily to bow. "This is Einar and he will be helping you starting tomorrow to fell the trees and turn it into fertile farm land. Einar, Thorfinn has been doing this for a bit longer than a year, he will show you around."

Brown eyes followed the man's gesture and fell on the younger one with kempt, auburn hair. Face young and with no stubbles, a small wart at the side of his nose - finished with an nervous and perplexed expression.

His own looked deep into the one of his new companion and found nothing but vapidness in them.

"Oh, uhm...it's nice to meet you." Einar tried to crack a smile. Thorfinn did not.

With a small chuckle of his own, Ketil pointed towards the small forest, talking of an subject Thorfinn had heard of time and time again.

Talks of fertile land, of wheat, of buying and selling, surpassing ones own price and freedom.

Freedom.

Did he have any of that ever in the first place? He doubted it.

But the new guy had a different opinion of it.

"Buying ourselves back?!" Einar stuttered, not believing what the farmer had just uttered, "We can get our freedom back if we just plant and sell the wheat to you?!"

Ketil jumped and blinked in surprise. "Why...yes. Does that not sound like a good deal to you?" "It's not that! N-Not at all! Thank you, thank you so much! I'll gratefully take the offer!"

Without another word, Einar sprinted deeper into the forest. Sighing heavily, Ketil settled back on his mount, ready to go back. "Do show him around for today Thorfinn and don't have him slack off after that. Both of you have a lot of work to do."

The blonde looked back at him with lidded eyes.

"Yes, master."

Dragging himself after the brunette, the young man watched him observe the area in awe. Trees loomed over the two and Einar swiftly turned back to the shorter man, his jaw agape.

"Thorfinn, was it?! Is that something you can do here in Denmark?! You - You can buy yourself out of slavery?!"

That I Love...

In the midmorning, Einar couldn't sit still.

Strenuously, he mimicked Thorfinn's day-to-day work. Inspecting each tree and root, yanking on them with his bare hands in hopes it might detach just a bit, and throwing questions.

Thorfinn found his keenness perplexing.

At noon, Einar awaited food.

Hearing about the service of the helpers, paid guests helping and guarding Ketil's farm, he grew ever so keen again. The helpers were not the kindest folk and seemingly the most hungry as well.

"What is there to complain?" One sneered as he appraoched Einar. The latter showed the crumbles and nibbled cheese in his rough hands instead. "This, this is our food? How is this supposed to be enough for two people? And it was obviously gnawed on!"

"So?" The second man of the trio sauntered closer with a wide grin. "Slaves like you should be grateful you can even eat a day. For someone so small and little, you sure talk big. We helpers wake up each and every day to bring food to lowly rats like you! And none of you even have the brains on how to thank someone for it!"

With a shaking gasp, Einar stepped back. The mere tone. The way the spit splashed on his face as he talks with that knowing glint in his dull eyes.

How could someone be like that? Just a year ago, he was surrounded by normal people, a village and family.

Once again, the helper spits as he scoffed. "Say it, dog," The grin grew ever so crooked as Einar's shock quickly transformed into rage. "Say 'thank you for the food'."

Breath hitched as the brunette took everything within him not to batter the man here and there. Balling a fist, he pulled back - before a smaller figure squeezed himself between the men and held out the crumbs of bread in his hands.

Thorfinn avoided the helper's gaze and looked down, as if giving a woeful prayer. "We thank you for the food."

Einar observed the tension dissolving, face that of an fish out of water, as Thorfinn returned to his work as if nothing happened.

In the afternoon, Einar hauled a sack of hay on his shoulder, heart feeling disarrayed.

Up ahead he followed Thorfinn who carried two sacks on his shoulders. He wondered how he does it despite his shorter and hunched form.

In fact, the blonde always seemed to hunch so far. He wondered how he does the entire labourous work in the first place.

"...How can you do all of this so easily? And with an empty stomach, too, day in and out. Chopping off the trees and then hauling them off the ground...like that old donkey was of any help." He pouted at the memory of the helpers bringing in an old, weak horse as 'aid' while they snoozed under the trees, "And you were so obedient to these jerks, too."

The walk continued to be quiet. The brunette continued to pout, making an even longer face at the one-sided conversation.

"You know, you can report that to the master! No, we should, have to do that! We are his property and these jerks treated us like were are lesser than that! He should know how his slaves are being treated and get rid of these pigs!"

The walk was silent after that as well. Thorfinn did not turn his back away neither show any sign of taking in his words. Einar only pouted even more and bit his tongue - momentarily.

"You're really strange."

As if struck by lightning, the blonde stopped. A force jolted through his muscles and bones that almost threatened to have him let go of the hay. The same force took a hold of his heart, like a fist squeezing it so tight with the intent to kill him. It won't let go.

Calming down from the start, Einar sped up in front of him with raised brows. The blonde's face was frozen in fear.

"...Thorfinn...?"

"What did you just say?"

"Uh," Quickly, he stepped back. Even the way Thorfinn managed to utter the question, jaw agape and frozen as well, perplexed him. "I said you're strange. Like, it's not like I dislike you it's just…just that I thought we could talk more. You're so quiet all the time but then get so obedient around these jerks but then act like you don't care-"

Agonizingly slow does he regain his body. With each word Einar spoke, Thorfinn nodded along, listened and had it ring in his head like a chant. Just as slow, he began walking again. "...I really am, aren't I?" He muttered after taking a deep breath.

"Eh, uhm, what?"

"Strange..."

I'm Trying To Find The Place Where I Belong...

Thorfinn was allowed to call it a day early for teaching Einar.

Today's chores were almost completed anyway with how tenacious his new companion had been. It was an insistence he could not comprehend.

The brunette did not expect much when Thorfinn showed him the way to the small barn, pointing to the heaps of hay and buckets at the corners. The master's house was across the road at least and the well free for him to use.

Einar also expected not much from his peer, as he had learned today when he quickly dozed off. He believed him to be anyway, when he stayed silent through all his questions.

Einar was strange...but the blonde reckoned he was, too.

That night, his visions turned into nightmares once again - but only to be left forgotten again in the morning.

A dark blue sea and an equally dark sky above. The wrath of the gods over the clouds and a hoard of monsters waging further away. He found himself lucky he wasn't so close.

But that relief was cut short by the freezing pain in his abdomen, as he looked down at you, teeth gritting like a beast. When did he grow taller than you?

He always thought you were the same height. Or were you the taller one?

With a growl, you swayed back with the dagger out of his flesh and thrusted it into it again. Labored breaths tried to escaped your gritted teeth, nosetrils flaring up as you only scolwed at him. With great effort and little strength, you drew the blade back and stabbed him again.

"Liar..." You croaked out, the smallest of hints of tears in your eyes, "This isn't where we're supposed to be. You liar..." Another sob and another attack. Blood oozed out of his open stomach like a broken spring and while the pain was unbearable, Thorfinn remained standing.

"You were supposed to take me somewhere that isn't here!"

He watched with terror as you drowned in his blood.

Einar shot up at the ear-splitting shriek. He wondered how none of the master's family had heard.

All he vividly remembered on his first night on the farm as a slave, was Thorfinn feeling up his abdomen in a mad frenzy, his eyes wide and jaw agape in a silent scream.

Until I Do, I Guess I'll Carry On...

The sun rises and the reek of manure still dwells in his nose. Einar was not dreaming of the farm.

But as he followed Thorfinn's demure figure, anxiously keeping up with his chores and strength, he cannot keep his eyes off of him. Of this strange guy and his hushed whispers in the night.

Again, he observed and stayed back this time as the blonde accepted the spit thrown on his face and food. The amount of labor he carries on his broken back with an lost look in his eyes.

So small and dry, brown so hazy and milky, he wonders if he can even see.

Einar stays back and listens as the master and his employers give him more work, more duties, more praises, more insults. He takes it all the same.

Then, at the setting of the sun, the young man still stays back and watches with the rest of the slaves nearby as Thorfinn dropped all he had carried diligently to the master, and sprinted to a small person further away.

His heart beat in his ears, ringing against his skull and Einar found himself surprised as he prayed that Thorfinn would not get in trouble for whatever he was doing there.

Not getting in trouble for the calloused hand that reached out for that person's shoulder, how they yelped out and whipped their head around at the contact with the man.

How they watched as Thorfinn's hopeful face slowly dimmed to shock - then reverted back to his nonchalant ignorance.

What a fool he was. No, it couldn't be. The words he heard, they weren't yours. This little slave, just a terrified child, may have talked like you - walked like you, had a stature like you, looked like you - but in their place, you wouldn't have frozen on the spot. You would have killed him, or he you, when you gazed upon him as you did time and time again.

Without another word, he let his hand fall to his side and dismissed Einar's concerns. The brunette apologized for Thorfinn's stead but the man was already on his way to the barn.

He didn't even know what he was thinking. How his mind could see a silhouette that could resemble you, mistake you, and start running after you. Thorfinn didn't know what he was doing.

The master was already used to his behaviour. Perhaps that's why he wanted to get rid of him while still gaining a bit of gold.

Trapped In Every Sacrifice,

Feel Like I'm Gonna Lose My Mind...

Another night. Another new slave - a young, blonde woman - another curse from Einar about wars and beasts and another nightmare. It's what Thorfinn finally reckoned them as.

The demons that haunt him as he stabs them down for the earth to swallow. Your bloodied body holding a blade. The insults and spits thrown at him, his insides falling down into the sea. Your flailing arms as you cry for his help as the ground splits in two.

In the dead of the night, he checks for his companion, still seeing him to be asleep. Limply, Thorfinn forced himself to sit up.

The stars were as bright as ever. They were when you two were together but in the past year, the nightsky seemed different. Under it, all alone, he mumbled your name under his breath to remember you by.

That's right, he did not even have anything to remember you by, did he? Not a weapon, not a trinket, nothing. All that was left of you were the nightmares haunting his mind.

He hoped it was even less. In this cool, dark night, Thorfinn hoped you were dead. All would be easier for you to bear if just bones remained of you - and it would be easier to bear for him on his heart and mind.

You'd be free.

No Freedom, Without Love...

Scorching was the sun that morning as Ketil appraoched Thorfinn and Einar on his horse once again. Pater accompanied him with another in tow. Shackles of splinted wood around their swollen wrists. Their head hanging low.

"Thorfinn, Einar!" Ketil called out and began his usual prattling. His face bore that same, kind smile even when his words fell on some deaf ears. All Thorfinn could really focus on were lidded eyes slowly moving from the dirtied path up to him. Eyes that were drooped, limp, cold and familiar.

A shaky gasp. Air that got stuck in their lungs. Ketil halted in surprise as they stepped closer in hesitation, their bound hands rising and Pater yelling out about authority and respect of a property to follow.

All Thorfinn could hear were their breathless gasps, the darting eyes, hollow and in tears as their chafed hands gingerly cradled his face - as if unsure if he was really there.

Then, the shock turned into sorrow and anger.

"...You were supposed to be in Iceland..."

Pater yanked them away from him, the familiar warmth gone as they disorientate. Thorfinn could barely breath.

[jeweldagger]

the sounds of swords clashing and houses breaking was loud, pained shouts of the villagers flooding your senses.

away from all the chaos, thorfinn had you up against a tree, his hands placed on your hips as he held your ass up, his dick plunging so deliciously into your cunt. eacb thrust came with a wet sound, your pretty pussy dripping all over his dick, along with his heavy balls.

your moans were so loud, so frantic, that maybe even the terrified and dying villagers could hear.

“shut up,” thorfinn would huff, a hand reluctantly leaving your hip, creeping to the nape of your neck, then moving to the front where he squeezed for a moment. “wouldn’t want your daddy askeladd to head, would you?”

you couldn’t help the loud moan that escaped your lips, his dirty words and harsh thrusts were really getting to you. his calloused hand squeezed harder, almost cutting off your breathing. you choked out a moan, a coil begging to furl in your gut.

each of thorfinn’s thrusts was hard, pushing you into the tree. your cheek was rubbing uncomfortably against the bark, a rash would definitely show up later… however, the only thing on your mind was the way he fucked up so nicely into your sweet spot.

the til of his cock was just about to hit your cervix, and you swore you were about to cum that very second, until you heard your father’s voice.

askeladd was shouting at the other viking, commanding them to look for you, his daughter. and you knew you were fucked then…

thorfinn paid no mind, taking that as a sign to fuck you even harder. his thrusts began to grow harder, his hands grabbing onto your hips with a bruising grip. a fire lit in his abdomen, a grunt escaping his lips. he was close.

with a few more thrusts, you came over his cock, the liquid spilling from your little hole. thorfinn continued to fuck you, chasing his high as he revelled in your cute moans.

with a few more harsh thrusts, thorfinn shot his load deep into your pussy, his hot, thick cum reaching a depth you didn’t know existed. a soft whimper left his lips as his hand left your hips, fingers plunging into your tiny little hole.

“don’t waste any of my cum.” he’d growl into your ear, eyes darting towards the approaching vikings.

before you could voice a protest, your clothes were already pulled back on, along with thorfinn’s, the scene completely hidden as if thorfinn wasn’t fucking his cum back into you with his thick fingers.

“is everything alright, y/n?” your father’s voice was loud, his eyes narrowing as they landed on thorfinn. why was that brat so close to his daughter?

[mr-yuugo]

Sight

[Thorfinn X F!Reader]

Words: 938

Summary: Thorfinn finds out the reader is indeed a girl. While doing so he ends up witnessing a pleasant sight.

You didn't know how and why you ended up this way. Well, you did, though you believed it was Thorfinn's fault as he was the one that started it.

Currently, you were above him, his eyes focused on you. His chest rose and fell quickly, any slight movement of yours made him exhale sharply. His eyes do not dare to look down any further.

The water droplets that fell from your hair landed on him, He didn't mind the action and began to look away as seeing you this way began to be too much for him. Forcefully, you put your hands on his face making him face you.

"Why are you looking away now, Thorfinn? I swear, your eyes were all over me earlier. Is it because I caught you that you are embarrassed? You thought I would let it slide huh?"

He didn't say anything to your comment. Oh, how he wanted to push you away, but he simply couldn't, not that he really wanted to anyways.

He remembered how you had walked away earlier to who knows where. He had become bored as he was guarding the ships alone as the others left for a village nearby. He had made a split decision to go look for you, getting up from his seat he began to look for you.

He remembered how you wanted to go have a bath when you could, earlier when scouting the area, you two had found a stream. Going over to where the stream was, he assumed you would be there. As he got closer, he began to hesitate, he had his theories.

In all honesty, you looked like a girl. What if his thoughts were correct and you were? He told himself he wouldn't care; he didn't feel any attraction towards you. Well, that's what he would like to tell himself.

You were....different? There were certain times when he believed you were a girl. At times you acted like one, not to forget that one time you screamed at some random bug. Pushing those thoughts aside he made it, the only thing covering his vision were a few trees and bushes.

Peaking his head through a bush his eyes wandered throughout the area as his eyes finally landed on you. His eyes widened; his palms sweaty as his thoughts had become reality.

There you were your body wet from the water as you slicked your hair back away from your face. Thorfinn thought his eyes would have popped out of his sockets if he hadn't looked away. His face flushed as he looked away. Slowly his eyes trailed back to your body, he saw every curve and scar that littered your body.

His breathing became irregular as his mind wandered. He thought of how soft you would be, would you be mad if you found him staring?

He saw how any slight movement made your breasts move. He looked away, only to look at you again. He just couldn't tear his eyes off of you, he knew you were beautiful even before now. His newfound discovery only encouraged his heart to fall for you.

His mind was so far gone; he hadn't realized you had finished your bath. You began to dry yourself, looking up you realized someone was staring at you.

Thorfinn snapping out of it quickly ducked out of your vision lane. Cursing at himself for being such an idiot. He wondered if you had seen him.

"Who is there? I'll beat the shit out of you if you don't show yourself." You threatened

Covering yourself with the thin towel, you prepared yourself for any upcoming attack. Noticing slight movement from the bush in front of you. You quietly made your way towards it.

Thorfinn on the other hand began to choke on his spit as he began to sweat in nervousness. "Shit," He thought

Quickly he began to crawl away, making a note to not make too much noise. Unfortunately, he hadn't gotten far when he felt a foot press down on his back.

"Ha! Didn't expect to find you, Thorfinn."

You had managed to turn him on his back, straddling him so he wouldn't move. He tried to push you off, but you grabbed his hands and put them above him. Your still-wet hair dripped water onto him.

You noticed how he began to look away, making him face you, you spoke.

"Why are you looking away now, Thorfinn? I swear, your eyes were all over me earlier. Is it because I caught you that you are embarrassed? You thought I would let it slide huh?"

"....."

"Fine don't speak." Moving into a slightly more comfortable position, you noticed how his blush spread. "Hm? Does the sick pervert like this?" Moving again he groaned

"Get off me you bitch." He growled

"Really? You aren't even making an effort to move me off of you anymore. Admit it, you're enjoying this."

"Tsk, I told you to get off of me." Using his strength, he pushed you onto your back. As a result, he was now on top.

Realizing your current position, he closed his eyes as he let the moment sink in. His face showed how flustered he was. His body had moved on its own, grabbing your chin roughly he had smashed your lips with his.

His heart sped up as he felt you kiss him back, groaning into your mouth he began to whine as he couldn't get enough of you. As you opened your mouth, he pushed his tongue in. Savoring every inch of you he soon pulled away as he ran out of breath.

[greenofhue]

he's so fine bruh #needthat

[yandereunsolved]

☾ Yandere Thorfinn ☾

"Hmm. There is nowhere you can hide among all of these lands where I won't find you. For even the gods would fear my wrath if they took you from my arms."

[laislea05222077]

How much I would ruin this Nordic blonde slut in bed, ah - pulling those golden hairs, sinking my teeth into those white thighs, sucking from the neck to behind the knee, reaching, uncovering, deliciously exploring all the sensitive spots, there would be no 1cm^2 of skin left without marks, sore breasts and swollen nipples for 1 whole week, dehydrated, without rest, without mercy, the natives of America would hear the crack of my hand hitting that huge ass, echoing across the Atlantic, screaming, roaring, moaning, begging, cursing in Icelandic used every possible word, drool dripping obscenely out of the corner of his lips, failing to breath, sweating like a blacksmith in a forge, eyes rolling back, the beautiful brown orbs teary, sliding tears down his cheeks, blond eyelashes moistened, pupils dilated, his face buried against the ground, arms and wrists tied, withdrawing the nerves of the foot, the mind blank, forgetting everything, revenge, of deaths, of sadness, of everything that didn't involve moving your hips frantically like there's no tomorrow, burning inside like wildfire, too delirious to want to put it out, almost choking on fingers playing in your hot mouth, overstimulated, hearing naughty words by the ear, not even being breathable enough to retort or disagree, involuntarily nodding to outrageous assertions accompanied by gentle licks and bites on the lobe- "Look at you now. Holy shit, you're handling it so well. So that's how you like it? Um? What a naughty beauty you are" and then, most likely, he will realize this and ask for more

[4seasonsofart]

A reader insert who is the Prince(ss) of England and ends up a war prisoner during the war arc with Thorfinn and Canute at your side. The entire band is just awestruck at the fact that they managed to capture an English royal, and many boast about it. You know the lewd things they say about you; they are nothing but savages who happen to align with the enemy of your own country.

Ragnar is treating you with respect, as even as a political prisoner, he believes you have some rights. Canute is hiding behind Ragnar and anxiously—just barely—looking at you at the beginning of your trip together. Thorfinn just rolls his eyes and complains about having to look after another spoiled brat.

"Do you even speak any Norse?" Thorfinn inquires in a haughty tone as he rolls his hazel irises and lists profanities under his wretched breath.

He was slightly surprised to learn that you do indeed speak some Norse. He doesn't show it, as he just waves you off and smirks at the fact that this stuck-up royal could speak some Norse. He constantly says things in Norse that you don't understand, and he'll speak quickly on purpose just to make it hard for you to interpret his words. He gets irritated when you start speaking in English, as he doesn't understand what you are saying. You rarely speak, but when you speak in English, you do it to Askeladd. He hates that with a burning passion. What are you two even talking about? Him???

As the trip progresses and Canute becomes bolder and wiser, he begins trying to subtly manipulate you. If you are more fem-aligned, then he tries to get you to fall in love with him, and if you are more masc-aligned, then he tries to make you his ally. He tries to be subtle about flirting, although it comes off as more of an awkward teenage interaction.

"I know we are born enemies, made lovers."

Askeladd is trying not to laugh as he already had to deal with trying to teach Thorfinn to flirt. If you know... you know...

Thorfinn just grumbles and reluctantly learns to enjoy more of your presence.

You are worried about your fate as a political prisoner and are therefore very closed off. Which makes it hard for Canute to connect with you and try to manipulate you into betraying your own country and joining him. Of course, Askeladd helps the young prince in this endeavor, as he has become his new retainer at this point.

So as the trip progresses, Thorfinn protects you, and Canute tries to manipulate you. Your fate and what will happen when you meet the Danish king are still unknown.

[junesworldnotsobleak]

|ʜᴜᴍᴀɴɪᴛʏ| ᴛʜᴏʀꜰɪɴɴ ᴋ.

Hi, this is a teaser for my new fanfic, Thorfinn x Reader. The full thing can be read on Wattpad: a_worldnotsobleak

In the heart of a brutal, war-torn world, survival is the only rule-especially for Y/n, a fierce young warrior who's just joined Askeladd's notorious band of Danish Vikings. She's tough, skilled with a weapon, and doesn't hesitate to kill when it's necessary. But beneath her hardened exterior lies a girl who's seen too much loss and too much violence to ever truly trust anyone. Her world is one of bloodshed, betrayal, and uncertain loyalties-and Y/n is learning fast that to survive, she'll have to make choices she never imagined.

When she first meets Thorfinn, the vengeful, battle-worn Viking who serves under Askeladd, their clash is inevitable. Both are driven by their own demons-Y/n's need to survive and Thorfinn's unrelenting thirst for revenge. Their initial hatred toward each other is palpable, but as they fight side by side in countless raids, a strange bond begins to form between them, one forged in fire and blood. The line between hatred and attraction starts to blur, and Y/n finds herself drawn to him in ways she never thought possible.

But nothing in this savage world comes easily. In a crew of ruthless warriors, survival means constantly proving your worth, and Y/n must navigate a web of deadly alliances, brutal betrayals, and an unpredictable future. As the stakes grow higher and the danger more immediate, Y/n's place in this violent world will be tested-not only by her enemies but by her own heart. Can she hold onto her humanity in a world that demands everything from her? And can she trust the one person she never thought she could? A story of survival, violence, and forbidden love, this epic tale of Vikings and warriors will keep you on the edge of your seat.

[almost-blondee]

The Truth

Thorfinn x reader

Takes place on Ketil’s farm

SFW, Fluff, One kiss, suggestive comments

word count: 1.6k

Hopefully Thorfinn isn’t to out of character, it’s a little tricky writing for him. But i honestly enjoy it. Please try to ignore any spelling or grammar mistakes, i tried my best to find all of them. Enjoy!

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Loving Thorfinn was great, he was a gentle, kind man. He is very admirable. However, he is very dense. No matter how many hints you drop, or Einar drops. He doesn’t catch on. I mean if you really think about it, it makes a lot of sense. All he knew was violence for the majority of his life. He may not know what it feels like to be loved, romantically.

Every morning you make sure to say good morning to him, and maybe slip in a question about how he slept. You asked this already knowing about his terrible nightmares, but you needed a reason to talk to him more than just a good morning. Thorfinn would usually say the same thing, “good morning (y/n), i slept okay”. Every-time you and Thorfinn interact Einar has to shake his head. Einar knows exactly how much you like Thorfinn, after all he is the only one you can talk to about it. “Oh, that’s good….” you reply back to Thorfinn, pausing before taking another breath to speak. “Do you and Einar have a lot to do today?” you question.

“We just have to do some chores for the old master and tend to our fields a bit.” Thorfinn replied in his smooth voice, one thing that made you fall for him. His voice was so soothing to you, it had such an effect on you. You try your best to stay calm and not get all giddy. “Well, good luck! Not that you’ll need it, you always succeed with your work.” you say with a big smile on your face.

“Thanks…” Thorfinn says sheepishly as he rubs the back of his neck. You go to say something but get interrupted by the mistress yelling at you.

“(Y/N)!!, GET OVER HERE, YOU TAKE WAY TO LONG. STOP FOOLING AROUND.”

“Ah, YES MISTRESS, COMING!” you shout back. You are about to tell Thorfinn that you have to go, when something possesses you to say something relatively bold for you.

“Sorry, I have to go. See you later handsome!”. As you finish your sentence you swiftly turn around and run back to the master's house. If you'd only stayed a few more seconds, you would have seen a bright blush on Thorfinns face. Thorfinn wonders to himself if you say that to every guy. Einar pats his shoulder startling him. “Well let’s get to work, “Handsome””. Einar exclaims in a teasing way. Thorfinn just looks at the ground while quietly telling him to be quiet. Einar sighs wondering when you guys will just get together already.

Later in the day, the sun had gotten higher, and beat down on everyone on the farm. Since Einar and Thorfinn have been doing physical labor all day, it’s not uncommon for them to have their shirts off. However, this was something new to you. The Mistress had told you to go check up on the old master, just to see how he was doing. As you were making your way to the old master's house, you saw Einar and Thorfinn working away. You extended your arm and shouted their names to get their attention. They waved back at you quickly, before getting back to work. As you neared them, the first thing you noticed was Thorfinns toned back. You almost fainted at the sight, never expecting him to be so well built. Einar being the first to realize you’re behind them, turned to see you gawking at Thorfinn.

“Jeez, would you stop drooling please, we are trying to work” Einar said mischievously, winking at you. You quickly turn your head to the side going red. “I was not drooling…” you said defensively, making Einar laugh. While Einar was laughing Thorfinn finished the task that he had himself busy with, making it so he was able to turn to you. You swear it was in slow motion, the way the sun glistened on his muscles as the sweat dripped down his body. When he was fully turned to you, you couldn’t help but stare at his well-toned abs. You looked him up and down for what seemed like forever, Thorfinn wondering why you were staring at him like that, just not saying anything. Thorfinn threw at quick questioning glance to Einar, who just rolled his eyes. “(y/n), are you done gawking at Thorfinn, i mean i know he’s well-built but, damn you act like you’ve never seen a guy with their shirt off.” Einar purposely said that so Thorfinn would know what’s happening. Thorfinn seemed to understand that at least, both of you looking away from each other blushing. Einar decided he was going to “ask if the old master needed any help”. Which was actually supposed to be your job, but how could you possibly pass up the chance to admire Thorfinn like this. You made a mental note to thank Einar later.

“Hi” you simply said in an attempt to clear the awkwardness from the air.

“Hi, (y/n)” Thorfinn replied. Now this was super awkward, both parties freaking out on the inside wondering what to say next. ahhhh, what do i say to her. Was she seriously staring at me like that. no, there’s no way. I mean i’m full of scars. yeah, she was probably looking at my scars. Thorfinn had convinced himself that you were looking at his scars in disgust and not admiring his body.

ahhhh, what do i say to him, i can’t believe Einar would say that. He totally knows i was gawking at him…He probably thinks i’m so weird. Now he probably hates me… You have somehow convinced yourself that Thorfinn hates you? However, that is far from the truth.

Thorfinn finally had the courage to say something. But it is not at all what you would have expected him to say.

“Sorry you had to see this.” he said in a quiet voice. It took you by surprise, what was he talking about? “I’m not sure i understand, Thorfinn?” you express your confusion.

“My scars, i’m sorry you have to see them, they are disgusting right?” Thorfinn looks up at you, and you can see the hurt in his eyes. At first you don’t say anything, baffled he could even think you’d think that of him. “What are you talking about! You are the most beautiful man i’ve ever seen!!!” you exclaim in an aggressive way, not even believing that he thought of himself that way. You see Thorfinn blush furiously at your comment. Making you think you may have gone too far. But no, you can’t stand here and watch the man you love call himself disgusting because of some scars. Thorfinn still doesn’t say anything, so you take it upon yourself to tell him how you really see him.

“Y’know Thorfinn, i don’t see your scars as disgusting, they are beautiful, i mean they tell your story, you have been through so much but still manage to want to change and better yourself, i really admire you. It takes a lot of courage to do what you’re doing.” You say, still not finished with your spiel. You continue. “I wouldn’t have fallen in love with you if i thought you were disgusting, if anything you are quite the opposite, you make me want to be a better person. You really are perfect in my eyes” you finish while walking closer towards him.

Thorfinn looks awestruck, he’s never had anybody talk so highly of him. It almost moves him to tears. But then he realizes something. YOU’VE FALLEN IN LOVE WITH ME!?!? Thorfinn thinks to himself. He cannot even think straight, since when did you love him, for how long, how did he not notice. Now all those time that you’ve tried getting closer to him, specifically making him food while cooking for the mistress, all the compliments you gave him. He thought you were just a really kind person. But now it all made sense.

“You fell in love with me?” Thorfinn finally has the courage to ask. You freeze, wait did i actually just say that out loud you think.

“Yes….” you say wincing, bracing yourself for him to reject you. Surprisingly, a rejection never came. You look up to see Thorfinn red in the face fidgeting with his fingers.

“Do you really mean all those things you said?” He asks. “Of course, i mean them, i truly think highly of you.” you confess.

Thorfinn then breathes out the biggest sigh you’ve ever heard. “Oh, thank goodness, i was really scared you were going to hate me” Thorfinn continues. “I’m also overjoyed to know we share the same feelings”. Now it’s your turn to be stunned. Thorfinn likes you!?!

“Wait seriously? you love me back?” you ask.

“of course, i do, how could i not.” he gives a little chuckle. It then went silent for a while, both of you inching closer to each other. Soon you were so close that you could basically feel the heat off of him. Thorfinn slowly moved his hand under your chin. leaning your head, while moving his closer to you. As you thought he was about to kiss you, he stops. looking you dead in the eye he says. “May i kiss you?” You eagerly nod your head yes. You’ve been waiting for this moment! With your answer, he smashes his lips onto yours giving you a passionate kiss.

You then get interrupted by Einar yelling. “GET A ROOM YOU TWO!!”. Both of you immediately pull away and go red with embarrassment. You turn to the window of the master's house and glare at him. “What. just saying” Einar shrugs. Then Thorfinn says something you definitely weren’t expecting.

“Getting a room doesn’t sound like a bad idea, i just hope Einar knows that he won’t just be hearing my screaming at night anymore.” Thorfinn says in his seductive voice, looking you straight in the eyes.

You are definitely looking forward to tonight. You will certainly be thanking Einar now.

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HIS BACK 🫣 (This is where i got the idea from….)

[clemberryfriends]

Yall just think abt it a Thorfinn x Black reader and it takes place during the movie if Hunchback of Notre Dame with the same stuff that plays out with Quasimodo being Quadi but it’s just Esmeralda and Phoebus are swapped out for reader and Thorfinn OR add a different love interest instead of Phoebus it’s an OC or something and make reader have 2-3 love interest but ultimately ends up with Thorfinn at the end

Let me know if this is a good idea or not or if I’m just crazy :3

[tirednamelessguy]

Okay, context: This is just a little scene I typed out in the middle of the night recently for a fanfiction (which isn't really one, it only exists in my head in the form of a bunch of different scenes and some backstory). It's for the manga and anime series Vinland Saga and is a Thorfinn x oc/reader fic. That's all that I wanna say for now, I'll probably reblog this to really get into the nitty gritty of this fic (like giving the actual context of the story). I just really wanted to share this one because I can't get it out of my mind so I gotta. Anyway, enough of me yapping, enjoy.

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The moon hung low in a star studded sea of darkness, shining down on the land. The deep blue river surged on, seeming to carry a thousand shimmering stars in its bosom along its path; to flow for miles before joining at a greater vastness eventually. The glowworms didn't come out that night, painting the two familiars in just the light of the world above. They were staring at the waters in silence, both lost in thought. Erik's fingers subconsciously found their way to her hair when the strain of its bounds started to get a little painful and released them, letting her hair cascade down her shoulders, curled and tangled. A faint sigh left her at the relief to her scalp. She saw a faint outline of her face in the water, watching her locks cup her face but couldn't tell much besides due to the meagre light. She brushed through them with her hand, taming them a bit before her eyes naturally went to Thorfinn, finding his gaze already on her.

They were sitting pretty close to keep warm but the distance hadn't meant much until now, when it felt miniscule yet immense at the same time. Erik's stare wandered from Thorfinn's eyes but not far, finding home in his face still, running over his features— his nose, his brows, his hair, his temples, his cheeks, his ears, his jaw, his chin, his lips; she thoroughly traced it all with her eyes, reading each shape, each rise, each dip, each scar. In its totality, his face looked dreamy, like a haze was pulled over it. Or perhaps it was her who was in a haze, finding contentment in simply gazing at him. It was about time she said something, she was aware of that but words struggled to take form in her head, let alone break free from the confines of her mouth.

"You look beautiful." Finally, he spoke. His voice was gentle, not rising above the gushing water in front of them as a rule. Their eyes reunited and for a second, he stumbled, eyes wide as if he surprised himself with his own words but soon, he collected himself. That was his nature after all. He always knew what to say and each word that left those perfectly shaped lips of his was like the mead of poetry for which she would be down to trickery just to get a taste of.

"It... suits you... this way."

The tug on the corners of her lips grew stronger, a fluttering in her chest made her take in a deep breath; the chill, fresh smells of grass and damp soil filled her chest. Her gaze grew softer and that was answer enough for him. 'Thank you', her smile told him. She wondered what he was thinking, his honey-brown eyes refusing to leave her. What she had in mind was crystal clear though. 'I love you', that was all. She wished she could say it. She probably could but she knew neither of them wanted to break the fragile, sanctious tranquility between them.

For that reason, he let his actions speak, extending a hand and delicately caressing her cheek with his knuckles. In harmony, she closed her eyes, feeling every inch of his hand. If she could somehow collect this feeling of his warm, scarred skin on her face, make an ocean out of it and slowly drown in it for eternity, she gladly would. His hand brushed along her shadowy locks and she ached to look at him again. He had moved— no, he was moving, just so slow that it was barely noticeable.

Their eyes were set on each other, locked in place. As he neared her, she could see his eyes more clearly. Shining in the moonlight, they held not only the colour but also the effects of the most divine mead to ever make her drunk. And from the core of those wells grew his pupils ever wider, a darkness that beckoned her to get closer as well. And she did, hypnotised, leaning closer both to his palm that cupped her cheek now, and his bewitching face. His lips were parted ever so slightly which she replicated. Her eyelids grew heavier, fluttering half way down. His thumb brushed her cheekbone, almost as if to make sure this was real. He lifted his chin and tilted his head to the right and his breath tickled her cheek so intoxicatingly, her eyes couldn't stand to remain open. And if she wasn't dying to feel his lips, she would probably fall back and swoon right there.

He didn't drag her anticipation. His lips connected with hers, feather-light and softer than clouds. That alone was enough to leave her breathless— head feeling light and heart soaring. She wanted to say his name, over and over again until her breath ran out, like it was the chant of Gods, an elixir to the parched lips of a lone traveller. She didn't. Solely because she couldn't with the way his lips blanketed hers, moving in a drawn out way. He was making his point, showing her he meant what he said and more. Erik returned the affection, kissing him with all the softness and all the love she had in herself. Her hand went to hold his free one that rested on his lap, lacing her fingers with his.

Their kiss deepened slightly, the yearning that was in the back of both of their minds taking reins. Her brows drew close. Her heart was crying out, her throat hurt from keeping all the emotion down, the only outlet being her lips which did their best to convey all that they could. Soothingly, Thorfinn brushed his thumb over her warm skin again. He understood, she could tell. Because he felt it too. All those years spent away from each other crumbled and turned to dust before them; disappeared, never to separate them again. Nothing ever could, not anymore. For their hearts would always show the way to the other. Even if the heavens were to rip them apart, even if they were stranded on opposite sides of the world, they would find a way back.

'I love you', her heart whispered yet again and he listened. And he said it back, all in the simple motion of the kiss.

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Just wanna add that I've written more after this but am debating whether or not to put that up as well. I'll probably let it marinate in my notes for a while and post it anyway idk

[shinjisdone]

𝑇𝜎 𝑆𝜎𝑓𝜏𝜀𝜋 𝛼 𝑊𝛼𝑟𝑟𝜄𝜎𝑟’𝑠 𝐻𝜀𝛼𝑟𝜏 (Vinland Saga; Thorfinn - 𝑺𝒍𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝑨𝒓𝒄, 𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒕 4)

In which you have joined Askeladd’s band…and grow closer to the Son of Thors - though as your future seemed promising, his thirst for revenge devastated all that you had left.

[Headcanons of how it would be like to meet Thorfinn again after he shattered your heart (based on season 2; both platonic and romantic)

Sᴇᴀsᴏɴ ₁ ﹙Wᴀʀ Aʀᴄ﹚ is here

Part 1: - (Thorfinn as a slave and his struggles) Part 2: - (Thorfinn trying to accept your existence as a slave)

Part 3: - (Thorfinn finds a reason to live, you finally see him)

Tag list:

@luopenis , @jinsecho , @mitsureigen , @theknightssecrets , @lana-del-stan , @theghostofanficpresent , @night-shadowblood-writes2

[Mentions of murder, death, war, slave trade, harrasment against women and whatever awful things happened in the viking era. Slavery will be a main subject throughout the entire arc. Mostly gender-neutral examples but female-leaning ones are there, too.]

[TW: This part will specifically mention: depressed tension, attempted murder, suicidal thoughts, lots of talking, lotsa dialoge, short but detailed description of strangulation, finding reasons to still keep living including being begged to]

Mighty River, Release My Soul...

Your arms were as warm as they were on that winter day.

You scolded him back then too, though he reckoned it was far more vicious than your prattling now.

The way you looked at him, were so focused on tending him even if it was for a mere moment, was like breathing in fresh, icey cold air that he has been deprived from for weeks. It coursed through him and stung each limb. It only found an end after Pater cleared his throat.

Immediately you let go of Thorfinn, spinning to the man with a confused noise and a gasp. He smiled. "Thorfinn is fine now, you don't need to worry. These two boys just need to take the rest of the day off. Now that you are willing to talk...I believe we'd best have a conversation. Not with Master Ketil, do not worry."

Still, that flustered panic did not leave your face as you meekly nodded and followed him. Pater waved Thorfinn and Einar one last goodbye before motioning you to follow with an easy gait. You looked back to Thorfinn before tailing after Pater.

Einar let go of his baited breath. "How..strange. They...you really know them, don't-" The brunette chocked on his breath as Thorfinn was disappearing into the dense forest. Work had to be done, injured or not. Perplexed and with a huff of irritation, he ran after him.

First he doesn't know how to show gratitude and say 'thank you' and now he is shrugging off - someone who was scared to death for him!

What the hell is this guy's problem?!

The way to the forest was easier than the last few weeks. The both of them were able to cut down quite a lot of trees, clearing the path, but the stumps remained, leaving the woods like a rugged wasteland of dead trees.

Einar didn't even noticed his stomps and the way his bruisened feet dug into the soil. Narrowed blue eyes watched Thorfinn swing down the axe again, again, again. Cut, cut and cut.

His movements were fluid as he observed him, as he wasn't threatened this day at all. As if he wasn't a second from throwing his life away at all.

But he dodged. He sprung out of the way and didn't seem to be aware to have tried to kill Snake. He seemed so...light and out of it. Like a drunken bird.

"Hey, Thorfinn." The blonde barely showed any sign of listening to him, continuing to cut. "Have you ever been to war?"

Thorfinn chopped once, "I have."

Einar's gaze darkened. He answered him clearly and with focus.

"Have you ever killed people?"

Again, he cut. The tree fell down swiftly. "I have."

"How many? A few? Five, ten?"

"Why do you want to know? Don't you hate war?"

His blue eyes snapped up as the blonde halted. If he stalled or wanted to hear his answer, he didn't know. He just knew that each and every day of being with him confused him more, made a tiny flame in him flick, made the gall in his throat come up.

"I'm asking because...if you went to war and killed, then how-"

Einar took a deep breath and swallowed the gall that threatened to spit out, "-How can that person be worried about you? Why do they want you to live if you killed?"

The axe hovered above his head before he slowly lowered it down - and having it fall with a thud to the ground. His dull eyes oversaw the mess he left. "I don't know...", "Why not? They seem to know you. Are they like you?"

"No." Thorfinn quickly and sharply answered. Though his next words fell flat and soft again, "They aren't a dog like me."

Not when you looked at him like that. Not when you were so heavily relieved by seeing him breathing and battered, like his father was back then.

...I Need To See The World...

Waged war since he was a child.

Ever since he was a wee lad, he said, but he couldn't remember the exact age. He is only about eighteen, so how long ago was it that he can't even remember? Could he even recall it?

It sounded...ridicilous as Einar walked back to the little barn they called their home - or beds, he wasn't sure - back hunched and steps sulken, though his face was as dark as thunder.

He pillaged and killed and stole of people's hard work. Their land, wheat and loved ones. And he can't even remember who, when and why?

Let that fool cut away at the last standing trees as roughed up as he is. Einar is allowed to rest and he'd rather drown in his thoughts alone, bundled up in hay than look at Thorfinn for another minute.

Falling asleep alone feels somewhat sad...but at least he'd fall asleep without any screaming waking him into the early night.

It was the sound of spilled water that made him shoot up his gaze up at the person holding a bucket and rags with them. You shuffled awkwardly to the side, standing right in front of the barn.

Einar was quick to wipe the glare off his face. "Oh...good evening."

"...G-Good evening." You struggled to reply, he thought.

Einar couldn't help but make a long and wide face, pursing his lips as his blue eyes took in your uncertain form. You finally met his eyes with your own. "Are you waiting for Thorfinn?" Your brows rose as you nodded. He must've figured it out quick - or you are just that predictable.

"Pater allowed me to go see him quick. For his ear. Just to make sure the wound didn't fester through the day." "He's still back in the forest chopping. If you wait too long, you might get in trouble."

Shuffling a bit, you hesitated. "I'll wait a bit more. He's stubborn."

The brunette's shoulder sank. With a sigh, he swiftly sat down on the boulder next to the barn's entrance and crossed his arms. "I'll wait too, then."

He sat there on the right, while you stood on the left side. You stared at him briefly, confusion written on your face. The sky turned even darker, with the stars shining through their hiding spots. The moon was nowhere to be seen but the lights from the master's estate still offered some solace. It was illuminated enough for both people to see each other and perhaps recognize an possible incomer.

The silence did not feel heavy yet pressuring. As if any moment, something was waiting to happen.

You glanced at the man and took a deep breath. "...Are you hurt somewhere, too?"

"Uh, what?" Einar jumped and whipped his head to you. "You were there too, right? With the guests. They must've hurt you, too." "Oh! Well - I'm fine enough. Just a few bruises," He rolled his shoudler while chuckling dryly, "The real unlucky bastard is Thorfinn."

You hummed and rose the bucket in your hand. "Pater didn't give me any balms or medicines but the water should cool the bruises." "Ah, uh," Einar waved with his arms, laughing as he shook his head, "No, no, I'm okay. Honestly I...got really off scott-free. Really, the one who has it the worst is...Thorfinn."

You pulled a face - Einar could not decipher what it meant - and went back on being on the look out. "I'd figure. He likes getting in trouble."

The man glanced in your direction, taking in your unreadable, narrowed expression briefly, before staring back down the hill as well, though halfheartedly. "You know him?" He dared to glance to you again, "That he's like that?"

The grip on the bucket tightened and your eyes darted around the cool meadow below. For a moment, you shifted aimlessly but decided to give in. "Yes. He...is an old friend."

There was no need to pretend. To act coy and unknowing when you so foolishly started to speak and cradled him in your arms. Not when you were waiting here like an idiot for him to return and see him again just this once for tonight.

As if he was deserving of it. Thorfinn did not return when you ran after him, did not stay as you lead him to Leif's boat and now you are waiting for him again - and the only certainty you had was that he had the order to do so as a slave.

You yourself needed to oblige.

Lying here will bring you nothing but punishments and you had to be on your best behaviour, even if it meant not being with Thorfinn for however long you were allowed to. But for now, you could use Pater as an excuse and do all that you could - even if this whole place, Thorfinn himself and your own actions didn't make any sense to you.

You are a slave here now on this farm. Why should you even try?

Back with Askeladd you could fight back. But here, your hands are only untied by Ketil's orders.

"There he is." Einar lowly let out and made you snap your head up to see the short blonde march towards you with a hunched back and one arm holding the other bandaged one. His own lidded gaze was focused on the ground before they widened upon your sight.

"Your friend has been waiting." Einar got up with a start, his voice stern and certain, "I'll be just outside. Let's head to bed soon after." Thorfinn barely had the chance to utter a protest as the brunette simply turned around the corner of the barn, staying a few steps away from it. Though his eyes quickly went back to you, wide and unsure, before he walked into the barn and sat down on the hay. You kneeled down next to him, dunking the cloth into the water.

Wordlessly, you got up and went around to his side, pulling his greasy strands away to observe his ear. Thorfinn felt the gentle, almost ghostly tips of your fingers graze his shell as he unblinkingly hung his head, sitting cross-legged. His hands were clutched and the fingers would tense around one another, slightly, as if shivering from the cold.

There was nothing to see. No festering, no tissue. A clean cut that won't affect his hearing at all. You knew, but wanted to see him anyway. Perhaps it was the paranoia, perhaps you didn't trust Pater's word, felt like you couldn't, or you truly just wanted to see him again. This ghost of a man from the past.

You didn't know. But you knew you were a fool for feeling drawn to him after all this time, for wanting to see if he is really alright.

Gaze remained on the wound for a while before you let his hair slip off your hold and kneeled down next to him again. Watching him, Thorfinn didn't meet your eyes, not even when you brought the wet, cold cloth up to pat his face.

His jawline felt thinner. The short stubbles tickled your skin and bent back against the cloth. You couldn't remember him with any stubbles, let alone a sliver of what seems to be a beard ever appear on his grimsome mug. Blonde hair heavy and stringy tickling his shoulders - he used to hate having long hair. It bothered him so that he'd cut it whenever it got too long for his tastes, leaving him with this disheveled, wild look. But here, he was downcast, downtrodden, like nothing he has ever been before or wanted to be. Yet his eyes stayed the same. The sorrow you saw reflected in the deep brown, the same you saw that winter day.

Still, Thorfinn didn't want to look at you.

...To The Unknown, I'll Go Against My Sorrow...

"What are you doing?" Was all he muttered instead, staring holes into the ground. The cloth hung in the hair before you dapped it in water again. "I don't know. I think I wanted to see if you're still...here."

Pressing the water out, you took his limb hands and gently glided the cloth over his course skin. "You shouldn't. You'll get in trouble and..." For a moment, Thorfinn glanced to the side, "...I'll drag you down with me."

You couldnt help the frown as you focused back on his hands and picking out the splinters of wood. Thorfinn dragged you down with him ever since you met him. Drowning together seemed like fate, a curse that befell upon you the moment you so foolishly returned his dagger.

Is it punishment for not being like Askeladd and letting him die? For not being like Canute and letting him be? Are people like you just meant to suffer in this world, all caused by your own actions?

It felt like it. Yet here you were with him again. Was a reunion another form of punishment, prolonging your suffering just a bit more before you die?

Was sitting here and tending to him suffering as well?

"I can't be dragged lower than this. There's nothing else." Finally, Thorfinn looked at you and the action was as painful as he thought it'd be. Your hair was longer, face bearing more and you've grown, too. Lidded eyes were focused on his calloused hand, the shadows of the night consuming you, not even the stars were bright enough. Hesitation would flicker within every minute, every moment, if it's really you - yet then his eyes would unwittingly search for the familiar injuries you had in the past, that one uniquness you wore, a certain pattern of speech and it would ease all doubts he had, eliminate them with the memory from just today. When you embraced him. When you told him he should be back in Iceland.

Thorfinn turned his hand around, grabbing one of yours, while the other one swiped the cloth in your hand off, as if it meant nothing in this, as if his injuries meant nothing at all, and held both of your hands in a tight, suffocating grip. With every passing second, they trembled more.

"You shouldn't be here. You should be somewhere far away, somewhere that isn't here. I'm doing this to you." He glared at your hands with an anguished frown, gripping them as if they could be swept away any second while yours were lying limbly in his. "I thought if I could be here...it'll be fine. But I'm still finding ways of doing this to you. Even after all I did...I'm still managing to hurt someone, and that's you."

Suddenly, he whipped his wide-eyed stare to you, taking in your own frustrated and chagrin-filled face. Your dry, pressed lips, the frown etched onto your visage, your bulging eyes. Thorfinn felt like he needed to continue before you began tearing up. "I'm...still me. But I will be here tomorrow. And the day after that." The blonde hesitated - before deciding to not promise it. He can't tell how much faith you can still put in him and neither can he.

Your watery gaze narrows before looking back over your shoulder. The house's lights are out and you'll need some to find your way back.

Slowly, weakly almost, you got on your feet. Hands still clung to Thorfinn's as they slowly slipped out of his grip. With one last look you offered to him, you hoarsely whispered, "You'll be here."

The man could only nod with wide eyes as you finally let go and went back. The darkness of the night swallowed you whole, only the sound of splashing water letting him know you're still nearby before only the sound of critters were left.

As Einar turned towards the entrance of the barn, he saw Thorfinn lying on his side. He watched him, the blonde almost motionless but the rise of his chest was a relief. He wondered how on earth Thorfinn could've fallen asleep so quickly but he didn't care enough to ponder for a minute more. This...guy. He was another beast, wasn't he?

He killed and pillaged and caused people like him and Arnheid and Pater to end up in places like this. Though Master Ketil was a kind trader, he was an exception to the rule. Anywhere else, and he might have it worse. And you seemed to be just like this guy.

One by one, the brunette took a step closer. How many has he killed? And have you taken lives as well? Can any of you remember?

The hay glided off his legs like snow. Have you caused fires, burned down fields and houses, flung spears and arrows into people?

He stood in front of him. The hay was warm around his knees. This murderer is now cutting down trees to make a field, to plant, to grow, to thrive. To feed people. To still their hunger, use the wood for houses and tools and use the wheat to bargain and trade.

His thick, scarred hands fit around his neck. The anger burning inside him and filling the hole in his chest made it easy to clam them around tightly. Einar could feel his pulse, steady and clear against his skin. Further back was part of his spine, feeling every movement of each inhale. Yet it feels so surprisingly soft when he puts pressure. Soft as his fingers curl around the back of his neck, squeezing the spine in, feeling his pulse quicken and his breath labored. The peaceful snores turned into winces, into pleas for the pain to stop.

Just a bit more. More. The blonde gasps, wiggling around in the hay as his whimpers turned into groans of pain. Somehow he could still breath.

"...Shit."

The throat was warm but Einar could feel his palms getting sweaty. In an blink of an eye, he surprised himself of how quickly he let go. His squatted legs trembled and stumbled back. Thorfinn didn't stop screaming.

Shit. He can't do it. Einar can't kill someone!

It's scary. The feel of someone's neck around your hands is terrifying and daunting, like a weight itself is put on his chest even though he is pretending to be the predator. To be stronger. To be the winner. He can't do it. He doesn't want to do it. He doesn't want to hate. He doesn't want anyone to die.

Suddenly his hands whipped out into the air, wailing around for help. Thorfinn gasped for air, only to screech out more. Even when Einar tried to kill him, he's still throwing a tantrum.

Quivering with hitched gasps, coughing and panting. It's the same every night.

A man like him. It's all nightmares, every night, and he knows it but now - now he wants to live to keep dreaming and live to keep seeing you and live to keep chopping down trees. Yet still, he feels so out of place here.

A desperate inhale and he reckoned he wanted to call for someone. His sweaty hand stiffened. In an blink of an eye he could feel it coil to a fist, pressure forcing his fingers down and he snapped his gaze wide open. Einar's hand clung around his.

"...You..." Thorfinn could finally feel the coolness of the air, the way the hay prickled his back as he desperately sucked in deep breaths like a man starved of food.

A good minute passed, at least to Einar, and Thorfinn shuffled around to sit up. He wiped the sweat off his face before glancing towards the brunette's back. Finally he calmed down, and noticed how dry his mouth was while swallowing. "...Why..." The blonde licked his lips, "...Why do you wake me...everytime I have a nightmare?" He took another breath and could clearly hear the crickets, hiding among the high grass, now. "...I...killed people, too." Propping his knee up, he leaned his elbow on it and his face against his hand - scarred and big enough to cover half his downtrodden visage. "I helped pillage and kill in each village I passed by. People like you. For years. I am...I am as despicable as the warriors that killed your family. And I'll just drag you down, too. So why-!"

Suddenly, Einar shot up, like a predator seeing his chance. Swiftly he snapped to him, a steel-tight grip on his tunic and a glare as dark as thunder as tears welled up in his eyes. "So, you wanna die, huh?!" He gave him a good shake and Thorfinn let it happen, "You wanna die here in the woods you chop down?! You and your - listen," His tone turned dark and Thorfinn's eyes widened, "I don't know exactly what happened to you. And I don't wanna know! I can't even imagine it!" Another rock, "But even if we are far down in our lowest point, there are - there are still some things we can be glad about to experience! Even if we just eat, work, sleep and shit all day, it's worth something! Never had anything good happen to me, my ass! When you get cleaned up all nice, even when its with a stinky, worn out rag, it's still something good! By someone...someone that cares about you! And all of that...all of that is only possible because someone let you live!"

Through gritted teeth, he swallowed his snot and fought against his tears. Images and voices of his mother and sister flashed by and Einar bit his lip to focus on the pain. He shook Thorfinn again.

"So be grateful for that at least! Do you hear me?!" He couldn't help but let a shaky sigh escape him. He didn't even have the strength to throw the blonde to the ground - he'd let that happen, too. So his grip grew softer and in defeat, Einar slumped down on his side of the barn. "Besides," He muttered, "It's not like you were the one who killed my family."

His brown eyes observed his hunched back, the way his body curled into a ball. Quiet and steady were his breaths as Thorfinn looked back to his hand. His scarred, calloused hand Einar took to get him back to the waking world, to the cold and dark night, the crisp air as crickets played their songs. It was better. Calmer than any other place he had ever been to.

"...Thank you, Einar." His voice was a mere attempt to utter his gratitude but it made Einar's heart beat faster. "Thank you for always waking me when I have a nightmare."

"...Yeah. Can't get a good night's sleep with you brailing around. Just go to sleep, Thorfinn."

"I will. I'll get up with you tomorrow."

Mighty River, Release My Soul, Out To The Open Gold...

He did wake up first.

Washed his face, stretched, got his axe. Waited for Einar to finish his chatting with Arnheid as you came around the corner.

It seemed like Pater was not angry last night nor did you get in trouble. Thorfinn couldn't help but let out a sigh of relief.

Einar noticed you as well and tried to give his best welcoming smile. "...Good morning!" The brunette noticed the crack in his voice but tried to brush off his embarassment with a wider grin. You blinked and gave a somber reply. "Oh...good morning." Your eyes immediately went to the shorter blonde, seeing him ready with the axe over his shoulder. His locks hid the shine in his gaze. He, too, greeted you. "Good morning."

The sound of your name on his tongue felt foreign. Like a hometown meal he hadn't had in ages, or learning a melody from his long-gone childhood. He saw your eyes widen as you struggled to instantly give a response. "G-Good morning, Thorfinn..."

His back was straighter, you weren't sure if he even noticed that himself, and his steps were heavy. The deep rise and fall of his chest was...relieving in a way, but before you could glance at him again, Einar sucked in a baited breath and stepped forward. "Well, we'd best get going, haha!" His laughter was too forced and so was his goofy grin, "Trees don't chop themselves! Uh, have a good, productive day, you two! See you later!" He marched away with a comedic wave towards Arnheid, and with Thorfinn in tow.

The woman chuckled before looking at you. "We're lucky to have such sweet and funny guys as our neighbors, don't we?"

The sun slowly went her way down across the sky but Thorfinn was more eager than ever to drop his axe, rope and knife to walk towards the edge of the decreasing forest. Einar rose a brow but brushed his confusion off, believing the blonde wanted to greet the master. "You're up and about, you lads, aren't you? Very good work ethics, I must say."

"Thank you, Master Ketil." Einar noted Thorfinn's quick and serious reply but kept his mouth shut. As fair as Ketil was, here on his high horse, it wasn't like Thorfinn to be so eager for conversations with him. "I do plan to turn this place into a field in about three years," Thorfinn added with an determined tone, his words cut and clear. Ketil, too, rose a brow. "Oh? Have you planned for that exact time?" The shorter man shook his head. "No. But I will get it done by then."

Look at that guy. Talking all high and mighty, confident like a carpenter as if Einar isn't doing half the work, too!

"And when it is done, Master...I'd like to ask you for a favor." The elder straightened his back and took a sharp inhale. Thorfinn making any suggestions piqued his interest - yet rather in puzzlement. "What did you have in mind, boy?"

Now, he, too, straightened his back, widened his eyes as if trying to pierce through Ketil's soul, wanting dearly for him to understand the utter necessity that bore in his words, that tore apart his heart. He had to say it and the man had to understand. Please.

"If you would so kindly allow, I'd like to work as much as I need to till this soil and grow its crops here. But instead of buying myself, I'd like to sell you the produce in order to buy their freedom back."

"What?!"

Both Einar and Ketil jumped at the boldness of his words. Thorfinn didn't blink an eye as he kept his expectant stare on the master. "Thorfinn...do you know what you're saying? Three years, at the least, all for this...one, one person? You don't mean the shy, new one?"

"I do." Thorfinn did not falter, "I want to work to buy their freedom back. To get somewhere else, far away from here. I want them to be free."

I Can't Stay Here Forever In This Hollow...

----

okay, so, this took too long-

ngl, I didn't get his speech at first - but pondering it about it more, Einar had already gone through a tragedy as a child with his father fighting off warriors/vikings to defend their village and not being sold off as slaves. After the huge amount of damage vikings have done (I imagine), there was prbly a lot of things to recover and rebuild again where all he, as a child, could do was work to rebuild, eat what they had, sleep as much as he could, and shit all day until their village recovered and they could enjoy their peace again - aka Einar being rather hopeful and ready to do that all over again as a slave and buy his freedom back.

first of all, I noticed way too late that Einar is, in fact, not a brunette;;;;his hair is rather dark reddish...oops. i'll pay more attention to that in the next

also, i read a few posts of manga-onlys/those who read the manga first that they didn't like Einar's confrontation with Thorfinn in the barn after their drama with Snake. That he's too violent, put in a bad light and I do get that - considering how incredibly kind and open-minded the guy actually is and even called Thorfinn his friend in that very chapter (in the anime it happened way later).

this is...complete bias on my part but I don't mind the scene in the anime. its scary, almost unnecessarily so in some regards considering how long the strangle goes on, like wtf - but I do like that it allowed Einar to be angry and grief in a rather negative way and realise in the midst of the action that what he is doing is wrong and that he physically does not have the guts nor want to kill someone. Imo not even giving into the thought of hurting Finny (like in the manga) shows more maturity but I don't mind both scenes. Plus, I like his speech of finding even the smallest things worthwhile and letting go of his anger in the moment to wake up Finn, cause he knows its wrong - that he isnt doing anything helpful or good, despite not liking Finn during that time at all.

[jeweldagger]

thorfinn x f!reader (soulmate au!)

the heat around he two of yo could be unbearable, as houses crashed down onto the floor, engulfed by flames.

houses of people you knew.

you watched as your classmates, friends, family, teachers... you watched as they were all slaughtered in cold blood.

and the boy in front of you was the sole cause of it all.

he seemed to be about your age, not very tall with shaggy, dark blonde hair. his dark eyes glared down at you, an apathetic look on his face.

did he not care that he had just let a group of vikings kill everyone? a whole village? did he not care that everything was up in flames? did it not bother him?

did he not care that.. he was your soulmate?

you could tell he was, purely by the fact that the red string of fate wrapped around your pinky, in linked with his.

his end as various signs of cutting, and attempts to rip it off... and you had suffered from them.

each attempt at harming the string, inflicts an equal amount of pain to both soulmates. each slash dug deep into your skin, and each tug you could feel.

he was desperate to get rid of the string, but only caused pain for the both of you.

"you.." your voice was shaky as you stared up at him, his hand resting at his side.

he spared the string not even a mere glance, his eyes were focused on you and you alone.

his soulmate.

[tisthekatseason]

serious question, is the term Thornute official?

[greenofhue]

thorfinn core part 2

[kaigarax]

Exactly As It Is

Thorfinn x Reader

Quote: "Fall in love with someone kind." & "Fall in love with someone familiar."

Someone You Loved Featuring: The Chef

Thorfinn Karlsefni wasn’t quite sure when he ended up here.

He remembered the hectic start to this morning. Needing to shave (which he should have been doing every morning but had been forgetting to remember), pick up his suit from the drycleaners, send Karli to his mother’s, and…

Well that was the just of things.

Running around like a chicken with its head cut off - and when his head finally found itself back on his body he was sitting in the back of the wedding reception hall, hiding from the large crowds of people he didn’t yet know. Thorfinn has never been all too good with people, he likes to think he’s gotten much better now, but large groups have never quite been his thing.

Honestly, he’s just happy he managed to make it to the wedding at all. The bride was one of the first people to reach out to him back during his first few years in University. Not scared off by his rough demeanor. So of course, despite not knowing most of the people at this wedding, he had still decided to come.

“Ah, unrequited love.” You smile wistfully as you take a seat at the table.

Thorfinn feels a wave of heat rush up to his face as he looks across the table at you. The table’s relatively small with just enough space that he’d be able to reach over and poke your cheek if he really wanted to.

Technically this isn’t the table Thorfinn is supposed to be sitting at.

This is the table prepared specifically for you - the wedding photographer. Thorfinn just happens to be occupying one of the seats because he doesn’t want to be so in the middle of the crowd. That and he likes being around you.

Seated on your left is you plus one that you’d been allowed to invite. The Hero, Thorfin, isn't mistaken. He’s tall and seemingly lanky, though from Thorfin’s own personal experience he can tell that the Hero is buffer than he appears to be. Thorfin notes that the Hero has a triangular sorta smile with thick black hair that sits flatly atop his head. He is, objectively speaking, attractive.

You’re dressed real pretty today, in a light coloured dress that he hasn’t seen you wear before. Thorfinn finds himself wondering what material the dress might be made out of. He does happen to know that you’re impartial to most fabrics but have a tendency to favour silk. So maybe it’s made of silk?

He isn’t all too sure.

What he is sure of, on the other hand, is that you look beautiful.

“Who?” A man asks, taking the empty seat beside you. Thorfinn recognizes the man as the Pilot, your latest muse.

He’s tall though not as tall as the Hero with his hair unnaturally dyed purple. Thorfinn doesn’t know much about beauty products but he’s pretty certain that a colour like that is expensive to get. The Pilot is definitely one of the more attractive people that Thorfinn had the pleasure of meeting - and Thorfinn is pretty sure he’s a model.

Figure someone like that would be your latest muse.

You gesture over to a group of people sitting near the other side of the room, your eyes landing on a pink haired boy. He looks to be someone in his late teens? Thorfinn isn’t all too sure - but then again he never has been the best at guessing ages. He still has a scar (he doesn’t actually) from an older woman whose age he guessed wrong. It may or may not have been because he guessed ten years over.

Thorfinn smiles softly at your expression, “who’s he in love with?”

You smile back teasingly, “guess.”

“The brown haired girl?” The Hero suggests quickly.

Thorfinn’s own eyes scan over the small group, quickly picking out the girl that sat closest to the pink haired boy.

He’s quickly proven wrong with the shaking of your head.

Finally, the Pilot, after a long moment of consideration, points out a girl sitting across the table, “the girl with the golden eyes?”

Your own eyes seem to light up at that, “oh, and what makes you say that?”

The girl with the golden eyes? What would make someone say that? From this distance Thorfinn can’t actually see all too well, much less see the eye colours of them from across the room. He actually has to commend the Pilot for being able to see so well.

You seem amused, as you usually do.

The Pilot shrugs, “a gut feeling I guess.”

You ‘tsk’ your tongue disapprovingly as one might do when they scold a young child, “I expected better of you, Mr. Airplane.”

“Mr. Airplane?” Thorfinn asks.

The Pilot rolls his eyes, “just a silly nickname.”

The Hero laughs in response, “it suits you, being the Pilot and all.”

Thorfinn feels his cheeks flush in response. He should have figured something like that. He honestly feels rather silly for not realising it sooner. At least it looks like you’re having a good time as you lean back in your chair playfully. You seem close to both the Hero and Pilot.

You laugh along with the Hero, “ah yes, the Pilot.”

“You’re such a brat.” The Pilot huffed, his cheeks dusting over with pink.

“At least I don’t rely on gut feelings to know when someone’s in love.” You taunt back.

Thorfinn is quite sure how effective the taunt is as he scratches the back of his neck, more curious about your words then why you said them, “how do you know when someone’s in love, (Y/n)?”

“Well,” you begin, “I would recommend years of observation - as experience is the most sure way of figuring this kind of thing out - but I’ll give you guys the sparknotes. To know if someone’s in love you just have to follow their gaze.”

The Hero clears his throat, “why?”

You smile warmly, “because the gaze never lies.”

Thorfinn’s own eyes land on you.

The gaze never lies? He’s never quite thought about it that way before. Thorfinn supposes he’s never been much of an introspective person - charging head first into things has always been his preferred method of attack. The instinctual way to solve his problems. Perhaps that was why he liked you so much; because you did things in such a different way from him; because you were able to look at things from a different perspective.

“Do any of you ever plan on getting married?” You ask, turning to look back at Thorfinn and the others.

The Pilot is the first to speak up, answering with a simple, “eventually.”

“Eventually?” You ask.

“Well, obviously whoever I get married to is going to have to be okay with being in the public light. Constantly being harassed by the paparazzi whether they’re famous or not just because they’re associated with me. I don’t plan on getting married until I’m ready to settle down in my acting career.” Explained the Pilot.

You smile softly, “very mature of you.”

The Pilot grins playfully in response, “besides, actors and models are more popular when they’re single anyways.”

“And” you sigh playfully, “he drops the ball.”

The playful grin on the Pilot’s face is quick to morph into something more akin to a frown. Thorfinn wonders if that’s the kind of expression you like seeing on people’s faces. Okay, it sounds a little bad when he puts it that way but he doesn't really have any other way to phrase it. You just always seemed to be good at pushing other people’s buttons in order to elicit certain reactions out of them - and Thorfinn wondered if this happened to be one of those reactions you enjoyed seeing more than others.

“What about you, Viking Boy?” You ask, turning your gaze to Thorfinn, “you are the oldest of us four. You plan on getting hitched anytime soon?”

Thorfinn freezes beneath your gaze. Feels stuck to the floor. More embarrassed than thoughtful when he hears you mention that he’s the oldest. He knows that he is a couple years older than you but to bring that idea to light is honestly a little embarrassing.

You smile teasingly.

His nickname, Viking Boy, came out so easily. Just when was the last time you called him that?

In the end, Thorfinn decides that you definitely like making people make this kind of expression. Even if you don’t admit it.

Thorfinn swallows, attempting to push his blush down, “I guess I never thought much about it.”

“Any girl would be lucky to have you,” you say, dashing any chance he had at hiding his blush, “or guy if that’s what you’re into.”

“Well I-”

The Hero cuts Thorfinn of with a gentle path to Thorfinn’s back, “come on, Sweets, don’t tease him.”

Sweets?

Thorfinn supposes you are sweet.

You don’t bother to correct him as you laugh, “and what about you, Cellophane?”

Cellophane. Thorfinn thinks he’s heard that before somewhere. Maybe from you? Oh well. If he can’t remember then he can’t remember. What is curious to think about, on the other hand, has to be the fact that you and the Hero speak to one another in such endearing ways. Using nicknames and light tones. It’s not a way that Thorfinn has ever been able to speak to you. Not the kind of person he was - but most certainly the kind of person he wanted to be. Or at least with you that was the kind of person he wanted to be.

“Well no shame,” you say softly, “not everyone in this world gets married.”

“And what about you, Sweets?” Asked the Hero.

“Marriage,” you say the word as if tentatively tasting it for the first time, “what do you think?”

Thorfinn isn’t quite sure who you’re saying those words to but he knows for certain that the only reason why you answer that way is because you don’t want to answer that question at all. It was what you always did when you didn’t want to answer a question. Redirect on to everyone else around you to see what they thought of you. It was clever if not a little annoying at times.

If you did care for Thorfinn’s opinion he’d tell you that you’d make a wonderful wife though he doubts that’s the kind of relationship you’d want with someone else.

He watches carefully as your gaze wanders over from the trio of muses around you and back towards the group of young people on the other side of the room. The pink haired boy is standing up tall telling a story to everyone at the table. He’s charismatic. Well, more charismatic than Thorfinn would ever be, smiling and laughing at what everyone else says.

The girl with golden eyes (or at least the girl Thorfinn thinks has the golden eyes) says something soft and gentle in response to the pink haired boy’s story. Thorfinn likes to think that out of everyone there he’s most like the girl with golden eyes. Gently observing everyone else from the back.

Lastly, Thorfinn notes that your eyes land on an orange haired boy. He knows for a fact that it’s the orange haired boy because of the way your smile shifts. How your eyes stop for just a moment before closing slightly in the orange haired boy’s direction. Thorfinn isn’t very good at dealing with other people but he knows for a fact that he’s good at dealing with things when it comes to you. That he notices all the small and little things you do when you see someone that catches your attention.

“What makes you think he has an unrequited love? (Y/n)?” The Pilot asks, bringing the attention back to the pink haired boy.

You seemingly sit up straighter in your chair, “don’t think, Mr. Airplane. I know.”

The Hero raises a brow, a playful smile forming in the corner of his lips, “oh do you now?”

“Of course. I know people’s hearts.” You smile in a way that makes Thorfinn’s heart flutter, “why else would my works be so popular?”

Hm, Thorfinn has always known that you were popular but he’s never exactly formed the idea in his mind up until now. Kind of like knowing that your hand gets cold when you touch ice but never actually thinking about it until someone else brings it up.

Thorfinn smiles, “because you’re good at taking photos?”

The Hero laughs in response, giving Thorfinn another playful pat on the back, “I like you. You’re so straightforward! Not like this little missy here.”

“Thanks I guess.” Said Thorfinn, hoping his cheeks weren’t flushed a dramatic shade of red.

“Hey!” You exclaimed.

The Pilot gives your shoulder a gentle shove, “people like your photos because you pick such good looking Muses.”

“Very true,” you beam brightly, “the muses I pick have excellent hearts.”

Despite knowing it’s a board statement meant to be shared between all of your muses it has Thorfinn’s heart beating erratically. The last time he remembers feeling this way was back all the way when he was a young boy that didn’t know the difference between revenge and avenge. All just words and actions in an attempt to resolve that anger that bubbled up in his chest.

Maybe it’s a good thing that Thorfinn hasn’t felt like this in awhile.

He’s spent most of his life trying to right the wrongs of his youth. Spent most of his days worried about what other people might think of him. To be called someone with an excellent heart, and by you of all people, has him halting every action of his life. Heck, he’s not even sure he’s breathing properly right now.

“Hey!” The Hero is the first to speak up, “you never answered the question, Sweets.”

“I haven’t, have I?” You say coyly.

“This is what you mean, ain’t it?” The Pilot asks, directing his question to the Hero, “she hates answering questions directly.”

“Hey, you’re ganging up on me.”

The Hero smirks, “that’s because you make it too easy.”

Thorfinn smiles softly, liking the way your cheeks flush in embarrassment, “it’s okay, (Y/n), you don’t have to tell us anything you don’t want to.”

Thorfinn, if he could, would make sure you never had to do something you didn’t want to. Heck, he’d be willing to walk to the end of the earth for you if he could. He isn’t all too sure why but he knows for a fact that he would.

“You’re too easy on her.” Scolded the Hero.

The Pilot adds, “a total simp.”

Thorfinn isn’t too sure if that’s a bad thing or not.

Doesn’t really matter all too much though. Not when you smile like that at him, “the two of you could learn a thing or two from him.”

“Doubt it, Sweets.” Chides the Hero, patting the top of your head playfully.

You grab his hand and smile, “love is such a mysterious thing.”

Now that is a statement that Thorfinn can agree with. Emotions in general are fairly mysterious but love in particular seems to take the cake. At first Thorfinn thinks you might be making a comment about the people here; the thought quickly leaves his mind when he notices that you’re gaze is directed to the centre of the room. At the bride and groom.

Thorfinn found himself surprised at how happy the bride and groom seemed to be. Obviously he knew that married couples were happy (especially newly weds) but this just wasn’t something he’d been expecting.

Huh, now that Thorfinn thinks about it, he wasn’t all too sure what he expected in the first place.

So instead he turns to you, gently poking your side, “I thought you said that love was a well understood thing?”

“I did?” You ask.

The Pilot nods, “yes.”

“You sure?”

The hero hums, “very~”

“When?”

“During my exhibit.” Said the Pilot.

You pause briefly, “oh, I guess I have.”

The Pilot leans towards you and flicks your forehead gently.

Thorfinn has half a mind to swat the Pilot’s hand away but manages to stay calm when he sees how you smile softly. If you don’t take any offence to the action then Thorfinn won’t either. He’ll remain seated.

“Perhaps,” you say softly, “I should say fate is such a mysterious thing.”

Fate.

It has a tricky kinda relationship with Thorfinn. A constant push and pull that he isn’t all too aware of. A tug of war that he’ll never be able to win. At least it seems that you have a much better relationship with the very force of nature.

“Do you think they’re each other’s first love?” The Hero asks, staring at the newly wed couple.

“Yes.” Thorfinn says.

At the same time he hears the Pilot mumble a simple “no.”

The newlyweds are young. Younger than Thorfinn had been when he first fell in love. But the main thing that draws Thorfinn to his conclusion is the look on the groom’s face as he looks at the bride. He holds her gently, as if she might break apart if he holds her any rougher and keeps her body close to his.

“She’s his first love.” You declare.

The Hero raises his head, “hm?”

“It’s the way he looks at her,” you explain, “you always look at your first love differently from everyone else. There’s a certain kind of softness in his eyes.”

Thorfinn chuckles, his gaze wandering from the dancing newlyweds to the best man sitting alone, “it’s too bad his best man doesn’t seem to like her very much.”

“What makes you say that?” You asked.

Thorfinn looks at the best man sitting at the table with his hands in his lap, his gaze unwavering from the dancing couple, “because he’s sitting so stiffly.”

The Hero nods agreeingly, “he does seem rather annoyed.”

“I get that impression too.” Added the Pilot.

Your eyes sparkle with amusement, “elaborate.”

“I guess it has something to do with the way he acts around her.” The Pilot explains, “it’s like he’s stepping on eggshells.”

Thorfinn looks back to the best man, his resolve wavering slightly, thinking that maybe he might’ve been too quick to come to a judgment, “he could just be shy.”

“Or maybe he doesn’t like her and is upset the groom is marrying someone he doesn’t like?” The Hero suggested.

You smile, “he’s in love with her,” as if the best man’s feelings are your own.

The Pilot scoffs, “and what makes you say that?”

“Follow his gaze.”

Fall in love with someone kind.

---

Exactly As It Is

My Dearest,

Do you think I might’ve been able to love someone else if we had never met? That you might’ve been able to have loved me if I ever mustered up the courage to tell you how I felt?

Yours Truly

---

Hopes, Dreams and Wishes.

Such pretty words with such pretty meanings. Sure, the meanings are similar (if not synonymous with one another) but are still pretty. Pretty words with connotations beautiful enough to make one’s heart race.

Similar but nonetheless beautiful.

To want for something in such an innocent and passionate way. They were feelings every person felt at least once in their life and Thorfinn Karlsefni was no exception. Even now he had want for such things in life - for how can someone call themselves a living human without want?

On the other hand, in his youth, Thorfinn absolutely loathed the very idea of those kinds of things. He had them, yes, but he also loathed it.

Thought that the people who value such things in life were pathetic.

Beautiful but nonetheless pathetic.

Desires, Aspirations and Yearnings.

Instead, Thorfinn lived by the way of desires, aspirations and yearnings. The arguably more ‘mature’ way of viewing life. The food that was slightly more sour than it was sweet. The treats that were ever so slightly bitter because that was what his pallet enjoyed. Because that was what it meant to be an adult.

He, a loud and obnoxious child, hated the things that made him similar to the other children his age because he so desperately yearned to be an adult. But all children go through something similar, don’t they? Thorfinn did presently like to ponder that he wasn’t all that different from other children but now it seemed more like an ironic pipe dream than actual truth.

Pathetic but nonetheless true.

Thorfinn had always felt a strange yearning as he looked onto the sea. A familiar longing that felt almost foreign in his chest. The sound of the waves rushing up and down in the shore helped to soothe that feeling ever so slightly.

Slowly the waves rose higher and higher as the sun set - seemingly spurred on by the playful nature of the quickly approaching night.

Thorfinn’s shoes were wet.

He never did like getting his feet wet.

But he stayed there.

Letting the waves rise higher and higher - even pushing himself deeper into the water wanting to let himself be taken by the sea. Laying where the ocean meets the sand. Wanting to get sucked into the waves. Or buried in the sand.

Ah.

This is how he wanted to die.

Indulging in ambiguous truths that left one melancholy.

True but nonetheless lost.

And that’s where he met you.

Your gazes met then but neither of you had chosen to say anything, instead just blankly staring at one another and the sea. His heart raced dramatically. Pathetically.

Despite being dressed in pretty clothes and having your hair done up all nice and neat you laid down in the sand beside him, letting the water wash up over you and ruin your appearance.

Any sane person would’ve left Thorfinn be.

Any sane person would’ve left you alone.

And that’s how the two of you lay for a while.

Just staring off into the distance of the sunset until it was just him and you.

Him, you and the starry night sky.

Lost but nonetheless different.

        I saw you         With that ribbon in your hair         Think that I began to stare         Maybe I’ll love you for a while

The loud indistinct chatter and rattle of cutlery of the kitchen was muffled as the large heavy door shut behind Thorfinn. The young sue-chef didn't let out a deep sigh as he let himself relax at an empty table at the back of the restaurant. Usually they preferred for the staff to not sit in the restaurant while on their break but the store was empty today and no one ever sat at this table in the back anyways. It was used more by the servers to wrap silverware than for people to actually eat.

The active restaurant life was tough, rough and loud. But that was how he preferred things.

It was his normal.

It wasn’t as chaotic as his youth had been but was just as exciting. This is how Thorfinn wanted to live. He’s tired but complete.

He had tried to work a more mundane job at one point but it hadn’t turned out all too well. One misplaced important document and another bad call quickly led to Thorfinn being ‘let go’.

Oh well, it's not as if he cared all that much about that job in the first place.

“Yo,” you take a seat across from Thorfinn, a playful smile pulling at your lips.

You’re dressed simply today, a golden ribbon in your hair. Thorfinn thinks it brings out the golden flecks in your eyes. Or at least it makes it seem like there’s gold somewhere in your eyes. Perhaps that gold is the spark Askaladd used to refer to as the ‘it factor.’ The thing people needed if they wanted to make it big in the world.

Thorfinn thinks that Askaladd would’ve liked you.

Would’ve liked your spunk and playful demeanor. You somehow managed to simultaneously take everything both seriously and not seriously the same way Askaladd did. Knew what to say to make people do what you want them to. Especially though, you had that spark in your eyes that shouted out to the world that you were going to make a difference. Or at least do your best to try and make a difference.

Mostly though, Thorfinn thinks that Askaladd would have warned Thorfinn to stay away from the likes of you. He never cared much for the people that Thorfinn chose to surround himself with as long as they didn’t endanger Askaladd’s operation. Not that Thorfinn had many people he hung around in the first place. He was more of a lone wolf type. But certainly you would have been the kind of person he’d have wanted to avoid. Not because you hung around a bad crowd or attracted trouble but because you were secretive.

“(Y/n).” Your name feels soft coming from Thorfinn’s lips.

Softer than anything else he’s had the privilege of saying.

“How’re you doing?” You asked, leaning towards him.

“As well as I can be,” Thorfinn shrugs, “you?”

“Well,” you laugh playfully, “I’m doing well.”

Your laugh is pretty.

Everything about you is pretty.

Especially with that ribbon in your hair.

“What’re you doing here?” Thorfinn asked.

You smile teasingly, “don’t want me to visit you while you’re on break, Thorfinn?”

“What? I didn’t say that,” he looked down to his feet, “I was just… curious about why you decided to visit me. You don’t usually show up here.”

“Hm,” you tilt your head to the side cutely, “that’s a secret.”

You’re much too clever.

And it didn’t help that Thorfinn wasn’t all that good at reading people.

        A stranger at a table in a place         And a really pretty face         I wonder what happens when you smile

Thorfinn is surprised to see you still at the table waiting for him at the end of his shift. You’re sitting at the table scribbling something down on the back of a photograph you’d taken of him during his lunch break. Constantly looking between the words you’re writing down and the screen of your phone. Personally, Thorfinn imagines that it’d just be easier to copy and paste whatever it is you keep looking at (or just take a screenshot) but you never did like doing things the easy way.

He thinks you look awfully cute like this, with your loose hair falling in front of your face.

Wonders how it might feel if he were to push it back.

Be bets that your hair is soft. Most hair is soft, isn’t it? Well Thorfinn’s own hair isn’t all that soft but he imagines yours is.

When you look up your eye catches his own and Thorfinn notes how you practically beam up at him. It gives his heart a hopeful thumping sensation.

Maybe.

Just maybe.

You’re quick to gather your things before making your way up to Thorfinn, the ghost of a teasing smile playing on the edges of your lips, “any plans tonight?”

“Um,” Thorfinn’s cheeks flush involuntarily.

Well, he did have plans but they weren’t anything all too exciting. The game was on tonight and he did plan on watching that with some leftovers he’s bringing over from the restaurant but he would prefer to hang out with you.

Truthfully, he isn’t sure if it’s because he’s in love with you or if it’s plainly because he likes being around you but the fluttering in his heart pushes him more towards the former of those two statements. He doesn’t allow himself to ponder on it for too long though. Not when you’re so close to him. Not while you’re standing there for his answer with that pretty smile that he can never decline.

Thorfinn swallows, “no. Nothing important.”

“Would you maybe want to spend the evening with me?” You ask, your eyes peering curiously into his own.

“Where were you thinking of going?”

“A jazz club.”

Thorfinn makes a face.

“Oh, do you not like that kind of music?”

“It’s not that,” okay it is that, but you don’t need to know that. It’s not that Thorfinn dislikes Jazz music, it's that he isn’t a big music fan at all. He’s never cared all too much for the more melodic arts. Music was always seen as the finer things in life and Thorfinn was anything but. He much preferred the rattling of pots and pans to the pounding of a drum or strumming of guitar (and whatever other instruments there were).

Your eyes soften, “you don’t have to go if you don’t want to.”

“But I-”

“We can do something else.”

Thorfinn’s heart does that fluttering thing again.

Even after all this time it still makes him feel like a green boy barely out of his teenage years. Which is anything but what he is now.

“No, that’s okay,” Thorfinn does his best to put on a brave face. For you. “Let’s go. What’s the worst that could happen?”

        I might never be your hero         Never been on to fight         That don’t mean that I can’t be your Valentine         I won’t be your savior either         Couldn’t even if I tried         But I think I could be someone you like         Someone you like

Thorfinn assumes that the worst is happening as he stares at the band on stage.

They’re out of sync with one another, struggling for dominance with one another. As far as Thorfinn can tell, there’s no symphony or rhythm. He doesn’t know much about music but he does know that this isn’t how it's supposed to sound.

You don’t seem all too taken by the music either. Instead fiddling around with your camera and looking around the crowd. It looks as if you’re looking for something among the crowd but for what Thorfinn isn’t too sure. But that’s just the way things are with you. There always seems to be something more. Where you’re just a breadths width away but a world apart.

And Thorfinn thinks that he might be fine with that.

Other more selfish men would have wanted more from you. Would yearn to be the one to get to stand beside you. To be the only one to be beside you but for Thorfinn this is enough. Just getting the chance to know you is enough for him.

Thorfinn is thankful when the song ends but the way that crowd cheers when the music's over tells him otherwise. They seem utterly entranced by the cacophony of sound that was just on stage. Seemingly taken by that brazen display of passion and song.

And you know what.

Thorfinn thinks that he likes it too.

If there was going to be a type of music that he did listen to, it would be jazz. It reaches deep into his soul and brings forth the feeling of what it means to be himself. A mismatch of parts from all over the world and brazenly who he is. Well, perhaps that was more like him when he was young but even Thorfinn knows that deep down he’s still a bold and outspoken man. Someone that’ll continue pushing forward for what he wants in life regardless of the obstacles thrown at him,

When Thorfinn turns to look at you (as he’s been doing all night) he notices that you’re actually already looking at him. You don’t look away (like any sensible person would do) and instead smile brightly. In response Thorfinn’s cheeks flush bright red in response.

“Have you ever been in love before?” You ask, leaning towards Thorfinn and brushing back a loose strand of his hair behind his ear.

Thorfinn blushes bright red, “why would you ask something like that?”

A part of Thorfinn thinks that you already know the answer to this question. That you’re only asking because you want to see how he might react. It certainly sounds like something you’d do.

Slowly but surely, over time, Thorfinn has managed to learn some things about you. Like how you always count to ten in the melody of ‘the ten duel commandments’ like how they do in Hamilton; or how you find amusement in the way other people make horribly wrong assumptions about you; and how you have a tendency to ask one thing while searching for the answer of another.

This moment clearly feels like one of those times.

After a while of silence you tilt your head to the side cutely, “so no?”

“Yes,” Thorfinn huffs, “I have.”

        Reading, in a coffee shop we share         Hiding shy behind my hair         Watching our movie in my mind

The next song being played is much better by all accounts of normal musical standards. Or at least by what Thorfinn assumes is musical standards. The instruments aren’t constantly trying to overpower one another and create a nice blend of something that Thorfinn could see playing in a restaurant much fancier than this one.

The people on stage look a little more presentable too. Their clothes match in style and the members of the band seem to move in sync with one another both on and off the stage. Such a pretty trio, Thorfinn thinks.

He thinks he heard someone in the crowd earlier mention that this trio is actually an up and coming band that occasionally pop up randomly and perform in open houses in hopes of growing a more natural connection with fans. If it’s true then Thorfinn respects the dedication. He imagines it’s much easier to grow popularity online than attempt to capture the hearts of people in person.

Another person in the crowd shouts out that this isn’t jazzy enough which seems to ignite something in the band members eyes as they suddenly kick it up a notch. The man playing the saxophone suddenly goes off on a run which challenges the piano and violin players to improvise to keep up. The piano is much more mellow while the violin playfully challenges the saxophone for center stage.

Thorfinn’s pretty sure that the person who shouted was you.

You’re turning out to be quite the trouble maker - seemingly very proud of yourself as you grin.

The melody becomes more jumpy, practically jumping off the walls. The crowd seems to be in agreement with you as their rumbling quiets ever so slightly in an attempt to better hear the music being played.

Thorfinn knows that the music has gone off the rails when the piano player finally takes charge of the song, practically slamming against the keys in a fiery passion that calms the violin and saxophone. It’s a scream for attention that has that spark in your eyes shining once again. It’s kind of similar to that look in your eye that you had when you first met Thorfinn.

This is what it must mean to spark.

If ‘Hopes’ were a person Thorfinn thinks that it would’ve been someone like the piano player. So willful and gentle yet brazenly strong. There is no certainty in the attitude of the piano player and what is Hope but the lack of certainty? And if the piano player is ‘Hopes’ then the saxophone player must be ‘Dreams’. A lively force of nature that spurs others forward. Everything one prays to be while simultaneously also being everything one prays to not be. And that would make the cello player ‘Wishes’. Constantly challenging that of ‘Dreams’ simply because it can. Simply because it refuses to be left behind. A glimpse into everything that could be.

“You think they’re good?” You asked, nudging Thorfinn lightly.

Thorfinn nods.

“Aren’t you happy you came?”

And he can’t exactly say he isn’t.

        I promise         Promise not to fly away         Make a story of today         Come on, give me a try

“It’s balmy out tonight.” Were the first words you said as you stepped out onto the street.

Thorfinn followed out after you.

Balmy.

Askaladd used that word sometimes. Thorfinn, being a five (maybe five? He wasn’t really sure) year old boy at the time didn’t know what the word meant. He obviously wouldn’t tell Askaladd that he didn’t know (he’d rather die) but he did find himself getting annoyed when the man used big fancy words. It was like his way of putting himself above Thorfinn without outright saying it.

Thorfinn, of course, figured out the meaning of the word on his own (Asking Askaladd’s right hand man) but not without some serious debating and consideration.

Balmy was an insult Askeladd often used when speaking about Thorfinn. Used it as a smart way to call Thorfinn crazy, mad and foolish. It was, of course, upsetting but warranted. Thorfinn really was all three of those things when he was young. Choosing to follow some crazy gang leader instead of choosing a comfortable life with his mother and sister. Even now one might consider him balmy. Choosing to live on the worse side of town and working a crazy lower paying job as a Sue chef.

Balmy.

Was the weather really foolish and eccentric?

Honestly, Thorfinn thought that the weather was kind of nice. It was a warm summer evening with an ever so gentle breeze that kept the humidity from being too much. Plus there weren’t that many clouds out which made it perfect weather to just sit outside and gaze up at the stars. Not that Thorfinn was a big fan of star gazing but he would admit that it would be very nice to be able to gaze up at the stars with you.

“The weather’s balmy?” Thorfinn raises an eyebrow inquisitively.

“Yeah,” you give him a curious smile, “as in pleasantly warm.”

“Oh.”

“What did you think I meant?”

Thorfinn blushes, “just something else.”

You tilt your head to the side curiously, “if you say so.”

You let it go. Thorfinn can tell from the way that your eyes wander ever so slightly to the right and the subtle rise in your shoulders. You have a tendency to let things like this go all the time. A secret sixth sense when you approach sensitive topics that Thorfinn might not want to talk about. He likes that about you.

Most people like to push. Let their curiosity lead the conversation rather than considering the feelings of others. For the most part it’s not a bad thing but Thorfinn likes that you don’t push. Likes that you won’t bring it up again unless he brings it up first.

“So, are you working tomorrow?” You ask as the two of you begin making your way back to Thorfinn’s home.

Thorfinn obviously thinks that the two of you should be walking to your home but he knows you’d refuse. That you prefer that the two of you walk to his home because it’s closer and because you can get a ride back to your own place if it’s really too late. Really though, Thorfinn thinks it’s because you like sleeping over at his place. Not that he can ever get you to admit that.

“No,” he shakes his head, “not tomorrow.”

“We should do something then.”

        I might never stop your sorrow         Fix you up as good as new         But that don’t mean that I can’t hold your hand in mine         I might never say I’m sorry         Even if I done you wrong         But I think I could be someone you like         Someone you like

“And what is it that you’re hoping to do?” Thorfinn asks.

“Spend time with you, obviously.”

You must know what you’re doing.

There’s no other explanation of how you’re able to make Thorfinn’s heart beat so dramatically. No other reason as to why you’re able to make him melt with a sentence that is seemingly so ‘obvious.’

You must find some sick perverse joy in his reactions.

He won’t call you out on that, of course, but he does wonder. Wonders all the time. Actually, he wonders about you most of the time. Wonders about your feelings and thoughts. Wonders about why you do the things you do. But mostly, he wonders if you would give him a serious chance if he asked you out. If you’ve ever given someone a serious chance before.

You wander ahead of him as the two of you walk back to his place. Stopping to look at the lake as the two of you cross over the bridge.

Thorfinn, who always chooses to walk exactly a step and a half slower than you, falls into place beside you as you grip on the edge of the railing and stare off into the distance.

You always do that when you walk over bridges, no matter how small.

Stop somewhere approximately in the middle before taking a step towards the ledge almost as if you’re walking a tightrope. Then your eyes close ever so slightly as you let the breeze (or lack of a breeze when there is none) hit your face, basking in this moment as if you have forever. Sometimes Thorfinn thinks you might. That you’re a supernatural being living here amongst the men on earth. Forever existing to bask in the brilliance that is life. But that idea is always as quickly scrapped as it appears because if there ever was a person to define what humanity was then it would be you. You and your pretty little camera as you stare off to the rest of the world - constantly pushing the boundaries of what it means to love the world around you. It’s brilliant.

You’re brilliant.

It’s beautiful out tonight here on the bridge. The stars twinkling far up in the sky. Like wishes which have already been completed. There to remind everyone that sometimes the impossible is only impossible because you believe it to be impossible.

It really is such a beautiful night to watch the stars.

“Have you ever been in love before?” Thorfinn asks, turning to look at you and pushing your hair behind your ear.

You smile, “of course.”

And that’s the answer Thorfinn is expecting. The answer that warms his heart. Maybe that person isn’t him. Maybe it is. But the very confirmation that you have been in love is enough for him. You look at this world too gently to not have loved before.

If there’s anyone this world loves, it must be you.

If Thorfinn were a braver man he likely would have leaned in and pressed a kiss to your lips. Me might’ve even been brave enough to tell you that he loves you. Tell you that you’re the person he wants to spend the rest of his life with.

Instead he looks away from you bashfully and looks off into the distance.

        I might never be your hero         But I think I’d like to try         And the way you look at me is your reply         You got a lot to learn about me         Maybe you could start tonight         ‘Cause I think I could be someone you like         Someone you like

‘SNAP!’

The sound of your camera going off startles him. Not as much as it did back when you first started taking photos of him but still startles him nonetheless. There was even one time when he smacked your camera out of his hands, he was so startled. You had, of course forgiven him, but only after he promised to be one of your Muses. Whatever that meant.

You were a super famous photographer or something. Thorfinn wasn’t all too sure.

There were people that walked along the street that would come up to you and ask for signatures sometimes that held validity to your claim but Thorfinn would’ve believed you regardless. He believes almost anything you tell him.

“I think that’s the last one.” You say softly.

Thorfinn tilts his head to the side curiously, a mannerism he’s picked up from spending so much time with you, “the last photo of me you take?”

“Mhm.”

His heart drops at that.

He isn’t all too sure why.

It’s a good thing, isn’t it? That you’re done? You’ve been talking to him about the deadline your manager set for your latest photo collection. You did complain that she was working you too hard but you always smiled so brightly. Thorfinn had tried to offer you some help but there was little he could do when it came to your work. There wasn’t much he knew in the first place. Back then you had smiled in a way similar to how you do now. A warm smile that feels almost bittersweet.

“Why did you pick me?” Thorfinn asks, “why did you pick me to be one of your Muses?”

“Because I like you.” You say, giving him that cheeky smile.

“Is that all?”

You pout, “what do you mean, ‘is that all?’”

This time, Thorfinn decides to be the one to tease you, “what would you have done if I refused to be one of your muses?”

“Getting to be around would have been enough for me.”

Thorfinn smiles, “you’re so pretty, (Y/n). Getting to be around you was enough for me to”

You were also so different from Thorfinn. So warm to and magnetic to the people around you. So adept at understanding the feelings of others. So attuned to everything around you in a way that that made his heart race.

So it surprised him when you looked away, your cheeks hot.

Different but nonetheless similar.

Fall in love with someone familiar.

---

Song: Someone You Like Artist: The Girl and The Dreamcatcher

---

Him: Of course I do.