#torvi x bjorn

[vikingsinstagram]

Pink hair who cares?

New doo new me!

Loving all things #Barbie

[we-are-only-halfway-home93]

Come and Lay the Roses 36- Angel of Mercy- [Ivar x OC]

Summary: Aaline and Ivar are finally reunited.

Characters: Ivar x OC, Bjorn x Torvi, Ubbe x Margrethe, Hvitserk x Thora, Sigurd x OC, Ragnar, Lagertha

Warnings: arranged marriage, violence, sex, torture, language, mentions of rape/sexual assault

Ch. 35

AN: Wow. It's been a long time. I've been thinking about this chapter for a long time and haven't been able to pin down why I waited so long to update. Part of me blames writer's block, part of me blames my schedule and timing, but the biggest thing I think that kept me from updating was that this would mean the end of this journey.

I came up with the idea for this story in May 2019 and after four years, it's finally finished. I don't think I was ready to end this journey and part with Aaline and the Lothbrok clan. I've been telling myself for weeks that I need to finish it and I've finally decided that I'm ready to end this journey.

I thank all of you who have stuck with me on this adventure.

“Angel of mercy, how did you find me? How did you pick me up again? Angel of mercy, how did you move me? Why am I on my feet again?”

~ “Mercy” by OneRepublic

She was warm. A marked difference from the last few weeks of her existence. She inhaled deeply and slowly, allowing the world to come back into focus. She blinked and surveyed the room she was in. 

It was her room. Her and Ivar’s. The curtains were closed except for a six inch gap that allowed sunlight to stream in and light up the dim room. There was just enough to maneuver the room but not wake her.

She shifted and winced at the sharp pain that lanced through her back. It would’ve been gracious to call the bed she’d slept on for the last few weeks a cot. It was barely more than a metal frame with a threadbare mattress. The metal bars had dug painfully into her bones for the few days she tried to sleep on it. Eventually she took to sleeping on the floor. It was more comfortable by far but still gave her stiff muscles. Sleeping on a real mattress had done little to ease the ache. 

She shifted slowly up to her elbows and glanced around. Clothes were littered on the floor. A serving tray of dirty dishes sat on the dresser across the room and a half full glass of water on the nightstand. She looked at the alarm clock and noted that it was the middle of the afternoon. 

She didn’t know how long she’d slept or how many days had passed since her rescue. She felt grimy and dirty and knew she hadn’t been bathed since then. She decided not to wait around for someone to help her and hoisted herself out of the bed. 

With stiff legs, she made her way to the bathroom and blinked rapidly against the bright white light that penetrated her eyes. She smiled at the bouquet of black roses that were situated in the middle of the counter. Ivar had even left a short note expressing his love. He didn’t date stamp it so she didn’t know when he’d written it but she settled it back on the counter anyway, contentment thriving through her veins. 

She switched the shower head on high and undressed. Someone, probably Ivar, had dressed her simply. She pulled the black comfort t-shirt over her head and slipped her panties down her legs. The dirt and grime from the concrete room she’d been held in still decorated her body in streaks of gray and black and brown. She looked at her face in the mirror and narrowed her eyes at the vibrant purple bruise along her jaw and the dried blood that had caked itself in her nostrils and along her upper lip. 

She tried to comb the rat's nest that was her hair so she didn’t tangle it further in the shower but there was little hope for the strands. She pushed it back from her face and stepped into the shower when the steam fogged up the mirror beyond sight. 

She took a deep breath and let it out slowly through her mouth. The hot air filled her lungs and she felt herself relax. Her muscles began to unclench and she could feel her body disengaging from fight or flight mode. 

Once the trembling in her hands had stopped, she picked up Ivar’s shampoo and dropped a generous dollop in her hand. She massaged the minty soap through her hair and shivered as her scalp began to tingle. 

She combed her fingers through the knots as best she could, wincing at the extra sharp tugs that befell her scalp when she came to a particularly vicious snarl. She rinsed the lather and began again, working to clean all the grease and grime from her hair that she could manage.

She used her own rose scented body wash to scrub the dirt and grime from her body, scrubbing twice like she did for her hair, before turning to the leave in conditioner. She worked the lather into her hair before tilting her head back and closing her eyes, letting the hot water pelt her chest and stomach. 

She startled at the sound of the bathroom slamming open. She barely had time to shut the water off before the shower door slid open and she was pulled into Ivar’s arms. He didn’t seem to mind that she was soaking wet and dampening his clothes. He pulled her out of the steam and lifted her, settling her on the counter top. She shivered against the temperature difference and he left her arms only long enough to wrap a towel around her shoulders. 

He returned to her embrace and she wrapped her arms and legs around him fully, holding him in the embrace of her body. She felt him sign against her neck and knew it was a weight leaving his shoulders. He pulled back and pushed her hair behind her ears with the flat of his palm. She nuzzled into the contact. 

“Are you alright, my love?” He asked, his fingers combing through the wet strands of her hair. She nodded against his palm and tangled her fingers in the longer strands of hair at the nape of his neck. 

“How many people did you kill searching for me?” She asked. He smirked and stepped out of her embrace. He took a second towel from the rack on the wall and began meticulously drying her off. He started from the top, softly stroking the towel over her hair, squeezing the ends. He trailed it across her shoulders and down her arms, stroking over the crease of her elbow and over the backs of her hands. He even toweled off the spaces between her fingers.

“Innumerable. There is no number that will equal how precious your life is to me.” He answered. He brought the towel to her legs and traced her thighs and hips. She sucked in a soft breath when he gently toweled off the space between her legs, stroking the curls and dragging between the crease of her thigh. He smirked before stepping back and lifting first one leg and then the other, settling the balls of each foot on his chest and he dried her calves and feet. 

When he was satisfied, he pulled open the mirror and reached for her lotion and moisturizer. She closed her eyes and he traced his fingers gently over the planes of her face, taking care with her bruises. He rubbed in her moisturizer before opening her lotion and smoothing his hands over her chest. She shuddered when he worked the lather into her breasts, the spaces of his fingers catching on her nipples in a way that she wasn’t a hundred percent certain was accidental. 

She opened her eyes when he withdrew and almost shouted when he lifted her from the counter and returned to the bedroom. She let him settle her on the bed as he pulled a new shirt, his, and new underwear, hers, from the dresser.

He took her breath away when he dropped to a knee before her and, not once breaking eye contact, slid her panties up her legs. She shifted so he could settle them over her hips. He hovered over her, his mouth a hair's breadth away from hers but denied her a kiss. “If you’re trying to seduce me, it’s working.” She whispered. He grinned before picking up the new t-shirt and sliding it over her head without ceremony. She laughed as she pulled her head through the neck and slid her arms through the sleeves.

Ivar grew serious as soon as she reappeared and she twisted around on the bed to face him. She let him examine her face, which she knew was a mess of cuts and bruises. “I’m fine, Ivar.” She said.

He met her eyes and gave her a sad smile. She leaned forward into his space. “You know, this whole time I’ve been awake, you haven’t kissed me.” Ivar tilted his head to the side, his smile growing playful. “Kiss me, husband.” She said, and Ivar was unable to do anything but obey. 

He leaned forward and pressed his lips to hers, his tongue seeking entrance almost immediately. She moaned and pressed forward, deepening their kiss. Ivar groaned and pulled back, licking his lip. She grinned at him, blood on her teeth. Ivar growled and leaned forward, his hand settling at her throat and squeezing.

She groaned as Ivar tilted her head to the side and trailed kisses down the side of her throat. They left fire in their wake and Aaline sighed, settling her hands on Ivar’s forearms as he maneuvered her head whichever way he wanted.

She trailed her hands up his arms to his shoulders, tightening her fingers in the fabric of his t-shirt. “There’s something that I have to tell you.” Ivar hummed as he licked a line up the left side of her throat. She moaned when he nipped at the hinge of her jaw. 

“I’ve been meaning to say it for awhile butー” She’s cut off as a whimper works its way past her lips when Ivar sucked a mark into her throat at the curve of her neck and shoulder. Ivar hummed and switched sides, trailing nipping kisses up the other side of her neck. She knew she’d have marks to show for his affections. 

“What did you want to say?” He whispered in her ear, sending shivers down her spine. He traced the curve of it with his tongue before biting the lobe. She gasped and clutched tighter as his shoulders. 

“I didn’t tell you before. I was afraid.” Ivar pulled back and met her eyes, his hands moving to cup her face. His thumbs stroked over her cheekbones. She blinked at him, her hands releasing his shirt and smoothing out the fabric.

“I love you.” She whispered, her voice trembling. Ivar hummed and stroked his thumb across her cheek. He leaned for and settled his forehead against hers.

“As I love you.” He responded. Aaline released a watery laugh before surging forward and kissing him. Ivar laughed and opened his mouth to her, letting her devour him. She sat up on her knees and pressed bodily against him. Ivar groaned and stroked his hands down her back, reveling in the feeling of his wife safe in his arms again. 

Aaline giggled as Ivar’s hands smoothed up her back, taking her t-shirt with him on his way. She settled in his lap, relief flowing through her veins as her husband proceeded to make love to her.

@dreamlesswonder86 @youbloodymadgenius @inforapound @bcarolinablr @funmadnessandbadassvikings @jay-bel @feyrearcheron-nightcourt @londongal2810 @khiraeth @didiintheblog @jeremyrennerfanxxxx123 @xbellaxcarolinax @shannygoatgruff @kingniazx @revolution-starter @0hsappho @love-all-things-writing

[milkb0nny]

Hello. I saw the open request box and I didn’t know if you would be open to write something for Bjorn? Is he a character that you like? Do you have a favourite character from Series Vikings? I read a lot of your work and it’s so beautiful. Would you be able to write something about and obsessed Bjorn with reader and maybe some smuttyness ✨✨✨Mybe she joins him on the first trip to the Mediterranean 😍😍Andhe can see her from the ship across speaking to Floki and Helga ?

loyal dishonesty

Björn x neutral!reader

Björn: A man obsessing over you

Summary: Björn, who is known to be an adventurous and lustful lover, finally caught an endless desire: you. Though, how is he to portray his passion and admiration towards you?

Note: Thank you for your request! Björn is an... okay character. I rewatched the series so many times and with every rewatch I'm able to like him more. Still, he's far away from being a favorite. 😭 I love Ivar and Floki, as well as Helga and Torvi. Also - the smüt might be a little... Well, I usually don't write smüt. 🫠

Warnings: a little smüt, lustful behavior

Word Count: -

♡....━━━━━━━........ 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐜𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐧𝐬 ........━━━━━━━....♡

⚜️ When Björn fell for you, his attention became laser-focused on you. The first spark emerged just like with other women, though with you he felt he couldn't reach you. You were different - hard to get yet playful. He's known for his ambition and drive, but when he's in love, that intensity is redirected towards his beloved. His mind desired you, his body burned for your touch and his eyes were always glued on your very beautiful features. Every decision he made was influenced by thoughts of you.

⚜️ He kindly offered you drinks, a lovely chat or a sweet tease to make him seem interesting. Your personality was not only captivating but making him obsessive. Björn's love manifested as a fierce protectiveness - and an unhealthy obsession with you. He was almost obsessive about keeping you safe, especially on the way to the Mediterranean Sea. He secretly checked on you - your health, your daily activities and your bonds with others.

⚜️ Although his history with cheating is well known, he's also a jealous person. He despised to view you with other men or women who glared at you with lust. Björn felt entitled to you as if he had owned the right to you. No one should come too close, no one should touch your precious body without his permission. Though you weren't his, he still kept barging in whenever a person insisted perverted intentions.

⚜️ Björn is not one who opens up. He prefers to be viewed as the strong provider, a fearless man and a good soldier. However everyone is vulnerable. Björn found himself in a difficult position: he wanted to be vulnerable to show you his honest love though he didn't want to lose his identity as a powerful man. Throughout your time together you watched the thick wall break into pieces little by little. You learned about his flaws, his emotional struggles and especially about his insufferable self esteem. Deep inside he was more insecure than you ever had anticipated. Nevertheless you loved him for sharing that with you which was another reason to never let you go. You knew things no one else was supposed to know. In order to keep his secrets hidden, he needed to make you his. His only.

⚜️ As Björn's love deepens, so does his desperation to hold onto it. Emotions crept up his mind he had never encountered before with anyone else. A strange feeling, robbing his thoughts at night. He fears losing you, his passion, more than anything else and is willing to go to extreme lengths to keep you by his side, even if it means sacrificing his own happiness or ambitions. You did not only entertain him, you showed him how true love looked like. The feeling of your warmth was unique and too worthy to ever let go of. Your embrace motivated him to fight for his ambitions but you also scared him. You could not only pass away during battle, but sicknesses also haunt people's lives. A constant bitter taste - one that made him into a loyal husband.

⚜️ His care showed through intimate times as well. Whenever you begged him for nightly adventures, he was more than ready to fulfill your desires. However, in the back of his foggy mind, he would always make sure you're comfortable. Scaring you or hurting you during such vulnerable actions frightened him. Even if his thrusts were rough and heavy, his hands kept softly petting your shoulders.

⚜️ His obsession with you came so far, that he never engages in positions where he can't see your face. Oh, how he adores your flushed red face, your closed eyes and the messy hair of yours. Björn was convinced he would miss out on your heavenly being if the two of you would not see each other during the deed.

⚜️ Björn is a master of seduction, and he loves to show his affection through physical intimacy. Whatever he lays his eyes on isn't safe from his flirtatious attempts. Especially with you he loved to take his time. Playfulness was a form of embracing his love: he would tease you, give you soft pecks and would tickle you only to hear you laugh. From tender caresses to steamy embraces, every touch is filled with desire and longing. He'll tease and flirt shamelessly, always keeping you on your toes with his witty banter and mischievous grin. After all, you were the one for him.

♡....━━━━━━━........ 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐜𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐧𝐬 ........━━━━━━━....♡

[disasterofastory]

The good guy (Hvitserk x Reader)

The good guy Hvitserk x Reader Warnings: Reader is a few years older. And let's pretend that the age difference between Bjorn and his brothers is much smaller. Oral.

Summary: mordern!Hvitserk wants to show you he is the one you need.

The fake leather sticks to the back of your thighs as you push yourself next to the wall in the booth Bjorn chose for the night. A small grimace contorts your face at the uncomfortable feeling. Reaching down, you grab the hem of your skirt to pull on the fabric. Jeans may have been a better choice, but it doesn't matter now.

The pub is loud and smells like cheap beer and spicy snacks. The noises of the others mix with the game playing on the TV in the corner. Your eyes land on the screen for a second, and when the ball doesn't reach the goal, your attention turns back to the pair in front of you.

Bjorn and his girlfriend sit next to each other. The blonde man's arm is around the girl's shoulder. She is busy with her beer while her eyes scan the crowded place. Her makeup softly glints under the lights as she turns her head to the side. "Hvitserk and Ubbe will be there in a few," Bjorn says after a few seconds. His bright eyes are still on the screen of his phone. "Torvi too." "Won't it be awkward?" You ask him, glancing at Gunnhild. "It's fine," the man replies. "It was two years ago."

Their relationship didn't end well between them, and when you heard about the new love blossoming between Torvi and Ubbe, you couldn't imagine the family holidays at the Ragnarsson household.

"If you say so," you hum, holding your glass to your lips and frown when you notice Bjorn's smirking at you with mischief in his eyes. "What?" You ask him. Gunnhild grins too. "I heard something the other day," Bjorn muses. "And?" You ask. "A conversation between Ubbe and Hvitserk," Bjorn adds. "You know what?" You groan at his teasing. "I don't care. Don't tell me!" "Okay," he continues grinning. All of you know you won't keep long from questioning the burly man to spill the tea. There must be a good reason why Bjorn wants to tell you something about his two younger brothers. "Oh, come on!" You groan again. Your palm lands on the wooden table with a smack. "Tell me!" "Hvitserk likes you." Gunnhild is the one who has mercy on you. Excitement glints in her eyes as she waits for your reaction. "I mean... we are friends," you tell her, shrugging. You know all of Bjorn's brothers. Ubbe and Hvitserk are your friends, and Sigurd and Ivar don't hate your presence either. "You don't understand," Bjorn shakes his head. "He likes-likes you." You freeze, staring at them. "No," you reply, and your friends laugh. "Yes," Bjorn argues. "I heard them talking about you a few days ago. He is quite smitten with you." "And they are here," Gunnhild adds, keeping her eyes on the entrance of the pub.

You feel your stomach dropping while you watch the newcomers approaching your table. Half of your mind still tries to process Bjorn's words. Can it be true? You always thought about the brothers as Bjorn's younger siblings. Nothing more. Nothing less.

"Hey, guys!" Hvitserk's cheerful voice breaks the line of your thoughts. Your eyes wander up at the young man who is already watching you. Heat creeps up on your face at his attention on you, and you force your gaze to move onto the couple next to him. And it doesn't get better. Ubbe and Torvi watch you with a strange glint in their eyes. Or maybe you are just imagining it. "I need a drink," you gasp. "Can I get you anything?" "I will go with you," Bjorn says, standing up to follow you to the bar. "Sit down, guys," he adds. "We will be back in a minute."

"You think too hard," Bjorn says, standing next to you while you wait for your orders. "I'm not," you murmur, looking down at the counter. "I'm fine." "What's wrong?" He asks, leaning closer. "I mean, I'm the most handsome brother, but Hvitserk is a good guy too." "How can you tell that?" You ask, frowning. Eyes still on the wooden surface. "He is your little brother." "And I know him," Bjorn reasons. "You always choose the wrong guys," he continues, and you grimace. He is right. "Hvitserk would be good." "He is younger than me." The man scoffs. "So? Look, Hvitserk is like a puppy. And I mean it in a good way. And the younger lads always try to prove themself harder..." "Yeah, I remember," you murmur. "You really proved yourself back then to a lot of women." "Yeah," he nods, not trying to deny his past. "But it was me. Hvitserk is different." A heavy sigh leaves your lips, and you can't help but feel pathetic. You are already deep in a relationship that doesn't even exist. Hvitserk said nothing about his feelings for you. Maybe it isn't even true. Maybe Bjorn heard it wrong, and you stress yourself for nothing.

You are so stupid.

When you get back to the table, Ubbe and Torvi are already sitting at the end of the table on two chairs while Hvitserk stands next to the booth to give you enough space to climb back to your seat. "Thanks," you murmur and trying not to jump when his hand lands on the small of your back as you walk past by him.

You are so deep in your panicked thoughts you don't even notice Hvitserk's eyes on you. And it's really surprising since it seems like the young man can't tear his attention away from you. The skirt highlights the curve of your hips and is short enough to give enough space for his wandering gaze on your bare thighs. His palm tingles with the need to put his hand on you. He is sure you are soft and warm and everything he wants.

Ubbe's snickering shakes him up from his staring. He doesn't even feel bad about it. He feels good and content when he looks at you. Hvitserk doesn't even know when and how his feelings turned about you. You were always the girl who came over to his older brother, and before he knew it, he wanted you to spend time with him too. And wanted much more too.

"And how's the game?" Ubbe asks, glancing up at the TV. None of you care about it. "They run," Gunnhild replies. "A lot." Hvitserk can't help but smile at your laugh. His fingers curl around his beer to keep himself from touching you.

The night goes amazingly. You laugh and drink a lot but can't seem to forget the closeness of Hvitserk next to you. He radiates warmth and happiness. The cologne he uses covers your senses. His thigh brushes against yours from time to time.

"Halfdan?" Bjorn's voice brings you back to reality. When you look at him, he is already watching you with a smirk playing on his lips. "Yeah. Y/N could talk about him." "You know him?" Torvi asks, surprised. You shrug. "We dated for a little while." Hvitserk frowns at your words, but you don't notice it. His lips press into a thin line. "How was it?" You shrug again. "We didn't match." You went on a few dates with Halfdan, and while you enjoyed your time together, you found out soon enough that Halfdan was ready for a lot of things but not for a serious relationship. "Maybe you should date his brother," Ubbe suggests, laughing. "He was already married at least three times." "Yeah," you hum. "My dream is to be his fourth wife." "Isn't he old for you a bit?" Hvitserk asks, and your company needs all its strength not to laugh at the blonde man's jealous words. Heat rises up in your veins as you turn your head and look at him. A playful grin pulls on your lips. "Do you have something against older men?" Hvitserk doesn't care about older men or the brothers if they keep their distance from you. "Maybe we should go," Ubbe suddenly says, already standing up from his seat before his brother can say something to embarrass himself. "Ubbe is right," Bjorn nods. "It's late." You and Hvitserk need a few seconds to tear your gazes away from each other. "Hvitserk, maybe you should walk Y/N home," Torvi says, linking her arm over his boyfriend's. "It's dark outside." "Oh, no," you start. "You don't have to." "I do," he replies. "A walk would be nice." "I bet," Bjorn murmurs with a smirk. "I will call you tomorrow," he adds louder, watching you until you nod.

After saying goodbye to the others, you stay alone with Hvitserk. He walks by your side in silence for a few seconds. "So that's why you didn't come over for the few last weeks?" He asks after a while, keeping his gaze on the ground the whole time. His hands are in his coat pockets. "What do you mean?" You ask back. "Halfdan," he explains. "Oh," you hm. "No. I had a lot of things to do, and now that Bjorn moved out, I didn't really have the reason to go over." "Ivar misses you," he says, and you laugh. "I'm sure." "No, seriously," he clears his throat. "You can still hang out with us, right?" "I mean... yeah, I guess." You can feel your pulse in your throat as you wait for where this conversation will lead. "Or you could hang out just with me," he adds. "Ivar is boring anyway." You laugh again just to earn yourself more time to think about your next words. "I'm sure you have better things to do than spending your time with me," you tell him at the end. Your voice is quiet and unsure. You don't know what you should do. "Not really," he says. You can see his arm moving from the corner of your eyes. "I like being with you." Your heart jumps up to your throat next to your pulse when you feel his warm hand on you. His fingers are intertwined with yours. "Hvitserk," breathing out his name, you stop in front of the door of your flat. Your teeth sink into the flesh of your bottom lip as you look down at your hands. "You are really beautiful tonight." You laugh. That damn Ragnarsson charm. "Hvitserk..." He steps closer. His free hand lands under your jaw to push your head up until your eyes meet. His thumb pulls out your lip from between your teeth. "What are you doing?" You ask him. You have to force the words out because of your barely working lungs. "I like you, Y/N," he says. No embarrassment or uncertainty shows on his face. "Hvitserk..." You sigh, trying to say something, but your brain doesn't really want to work either. He smirks. "I like it when you say my name." "You can't... It's not... You are..." He patiently waits for you to finish at least one sentence. The young man really likes the way you fluster in his presence. His thumb still caresses the soft line of your bottom lip, and his other hand slips to your waist to pull you closer. Your front is pressed against his. He can't help but glance down at your cleavage. "Are your roommate home?" "My eyes are up, Hvitserk," you tell him, smirking. "I know," he grins. "They are pretty too." "Be serious," you tell him even though you can't swipe the smile off your face. "I am," he replies, looking up into your eyes. "I like you, Y/N, ever since you came over four years ago, crying because your ex broke your heart." "Really? You needed my broken heart to notice me?" You tease. "Of course not," he says. "You were always pretty in my eyes. But that was the moment I realized I would be much better for you." "Hvitserk..." "What? Don't you like me? Or because of Bjorn? I don't think he would have anything against us... I mean, did you see his love life?" "No," you reply, shaking your head. "He wouldn't mind, I'm sure." "Then what?" He asks, pressing you closer to himself. "My age? It's just a few years, Y/N. It's nothing." "Hvitserk, I know you," you reason. "You are almost as bad as Halfdan. And don't tell me it's not true. I saw the different girls you brought home almost every week." "But they weren't you," he says. "They weren't important. But you are." "Hvitserk, I really want someone for the long run..." you tell him honestly. "I want a good relationship that can grow into more in the future. I don't play games anymore." "And I can be that guy," he says. "Let me prove it, Y/N." His words fan over your lips. "Let me in." When you say nothing, he leans even closer and kisses you for the first time. His lips are soft and taste like cheap beer.

And something snaps inside of you.

Your arms curl around his neck as you let him deepen the kiss. The gentle nibbles become bites on your bottom lip until he coaxes your mouth open for free access to your tongue. His kiss is searing and takes your breath away at once. Your lungs burn when he breaks away.

His words vibrate on your swollen lips when he speaks. His forehead is against yours. "Open the door, Y/N." "Hm?" You hum, still dizzy. A soft smile tugs at the corner of his lips. His hand slips to your ass to grab a handful of your flesh. A grunt echoes in his chest at the feeling. "The door, Y/N. Open it." "Oh," you gasp. "Right."

He watches you fiddling with your keys with amusement. You are flustered and breathless. The taste of your lips still tingles on his own. His heated gaze rakes over your body from behind. The skirt hugs your bottom perfectly. His hand moves on its own accord to touch you again, but he decides against it at the last moment. No, he won't act like a dog in heat.

At least not in front of your neighbors.

Hvitserk barely slides inside your house before pushing the door close with his leg. His hands find your waist again, and when you turn to face him, he kisses you again. Your back falls against the wall, and your fingers curl into his blonde hair at the nape of his neck. His presence covers your every sense. Your nostrils are filled with his smell, your fingertips are warm on his skin, and your lips burn with his taste.

"Go to the couch," he hums against your lips before kissing you again. His tongue ghosts over the line of your bottom lip.

You need every strength in your body to do as he says.

"Sit down." "You are really commanding," you state, still following his words. "I want to taste you before you change your mind," he says. In contrast to his words, his smile is soft and almost innocent. "You... what?" You gasp, shocked. His smile turns into something much more wicked as he falls to his knees before you. Even the view is enough to make your thighs shake and your inside tremble. "Open those legs for me, Y/N," he grins. His long fingers fiddle with the straps of your high heels, moving up to your calves, and when he reaches the curve of your knees, he rises both of your legs after another to kiss them. "Hvitserk!" You gasp, slapping down on the couch under you as you grab the edge when he pulls your legs apart. "You don't have to." "Oh, Y/N," he hums. "But I want to so much." "Oh!"

The breath you keep inside your lungs burns you. The skirt runs up on your thighs as your legs open under Hvitserk's heavy gaze. His fingers dig into your thighs. He plays and gropes the flesh all the way to your bottom. Another gasp escapes your lips when the man grabs you again to tug you to the edge of your seat. The skirt you wear hides nothing anymore. "It's pretty," he grins, playing with the lace of your panties. "Interesting, I always imagined you as a black lingerie woman." "I have black ones, too," you breathe out quietly. He smirks. "Maybe next time." His thumb glides over your pussy through the thin fabric. He can feel your folds and the wetness that coats your most sensitive parts. Your thighs jerk when his touch reaches your clit. He teases the hard bud until your panties are soaked. "You are so wet already," he says with satisfaction dripping from his words. It really makes him happy. It means to him that he is not the only one who feels attraction. You are not here in front of him out of pity or worry that you would hurt his feelings and damage your friendship with his oldest brother. You really feel something. Something that can grow into more if he doesn't fucks it up. "Let me..." he hums, and without waiting for your answer, he pulls down your panties with a swift motion. Soon, the fabric lies on the ground, forgotten. The cold air on your pussy makes your whole body shiver with anticipation. "You have no idea how many times I imagined you just like this," he says, staring at your center intently. "Open and wet for me." His finger glides over your folds, smearing your wetness in the process. "Hvitserk," you breathe out his name, urging him to stop his teasing already. Your whole body is tense with waiting and burning desire. "I'm here," he smirks, leaning closer. His words fan over your aching pussy. Your thighs want to close on their own accord, but the blonde man's shoulders stop them. His fingers dig deeper into your flesh. He can't get enough of the softness of your skin. His cock is painfully hard in his jeans, but he forces himself to focus on something else. And it's not a difficult thing to do when you are in front of him with spread legs and soaked cunt. A sharp gasp escapes your lips when he closes the space between you. His tongue flattens on your pussy, taking a teasing lick of your wetness. Your juices spread across his tastebuds. His eye fall shut at the feeling.

Hvitserk devours you to his heart's content while you squirm and whine under him. His tongue flicks your clit a few times before sinking his finger into your pussy and sucking at you at the same time. Your back arches, and your mouth falls open into an airy moan. You can feel the throbbing of your heart between your legs. It jumps and speeds up at every swirl and push Hvitserk does with his tongue and fingers. He spreads his two fingers inside you, stretching your walls and finding every sweet spot that makes you cry for more. To cry for him. "Hivtserk," you moan. "I-I-" "Cum," he groans into your pussy. His eyes bore into yours. "Cum for me, Y/N. Let me drink from you." Your head falls back at the whirlwind that runs through your body. Your muscles are taut, almost painfully so. You can't even breathe as the climax washes over you with full force. Your fingers find their way into his curls. You tug on the blonde strands, and Hvitserk moans. He wants you to use him for your own pleasure. He wants you to find pleasure in him, not just in the bed but everywhere else too. After years of silently watching you and craving your body with equal need with your laugh and pretty smile, he is ready for everything. He is ready to accept everything you want to give him.

When you win back your consciousness, Hvitserk is still between your legs, resting his head on your thigh with a cheeky grin on his lips. His lips glint with your wetness. "Hey." Heat creeps up on your face. "Hi." "I will pick you up at seven tomorrow," he suddenly says, standing up from his kneeling position. A quick kiss on your lips reminds you of what happened a few minutes ago. "What?" You gasp. "Hvitserk... what?" You watch his receding form as he makes his way to the entrance door of your home. "I thought..." You point at your room with your thumb. The confusion is clear on your face. When he looks back from the door, he can't help but stop for a second. You are so goddamn beautiful. Your hair is a mess, your eyes still shine with the remains of your climax, and your lips are swollen and red from his kisses. He really needs his every self-control not to turn back and take you to your room for more. "Nope," he says, popping the p. "Date first. Tomorrow. At seven." "But..." "It was just a taste, Y/N, because I couldn't help myself." And with that, he closes the door, leaving you alone with shaking legs and a dizzy mind.

Oh, gods!

[bjornswoman]

My prisoner

Requested by none.

Author's note: Hello! I've been away for a while and I'm sorry about it. I wanted to come back with a fic about Bjorn, but this one was something that I was thinking for a while and I decided that this one will come out first. I want to believe that vikings fandom are still active. Anyway, till next time have fun and take care.

Pairing: Modern!Hvitserk x Reader.

Genre: Modern!au, drama, romance, fluff.

Summary: Your ex boyfriend breaks free from prison.

Warnings: Drama, mentions of prison break, mentions of death.

Life had never been easy for you.

When you thought that things started getting better, something really bad happened and you were back to zero.

Life had shown you its worst face so far.

You had lost your parents at young age. You were struggling all alone, dealing with two awful jobs and an ex that was more pain in the ass than all the bills you had to pay at the end of each month.

Your life became much more difficult when you decided to get involved with the most infamous family of the city — the Lothbroks. These men — the sons of Ragnar Lothbrok, a mobster — they run a dangerous gang the one their father had founded. You couldn't even want to think about all the illegal stuff they were doing and the police was after them.

The bad thing in that was that the police had you under their microscope, as well, because you were Hvitserk Lothbrok's girlfriend — ex girlfriend.

And things became even worse than before when they put him in jail, after your break-up, and he decided with the help of his family to break free.

The police was following each movement of yours. They were tracking your phone number, listening to all your phone calls, expecting to learn about your ex. They had even someone outside your apartment to watch you over.

You told them over and over again that you had nothing to do with that filthy man anymore, but they wouldn't believe in you.

You let a long breath leave your lungs as you were cleaning the bar counter.

"What is it again?" One of your coworkers asked. Well, Hope was more than a coworker, she was your friend.

The only one you could talk to and not raise any suspicions. You were friends with Torvi — the wife of Ubbe Lothbrok — and Gunnhild — the wife of Bjorn Lothbrok — but you couldn't see them, it was too risky to get in touch with any member of the family. Of course, the police kept a close eye on them, but still you couldn't have any kind of communication with any of the family.

"It's the usual problem with... him." You said as you were placing the clean glasses on their place behind the counter.

"The police is following me around like I'm some kind of a bloody criminal because I made the mistake to start a relationship with a mobster." You spoke angrily and threw the towel on the counter. You were so angry, so frustrated with all this mess. Your hands run through your hair.

"I know that this is difficult for you, but it is going to end, sweetheart. It will end when they get this son of a bitch back where he belongs — in prison." She said wih an encouraging smile on her face and her hand rubbed your back friendly.

Only those words weren't encouraging for you. Deep in your heart you didn't want him to get caught and sent back inside there again. It hurt you to think that the man you loved were inside a called cell.

It was true that he wasn't the best guy in the world, not even close to that. Hvitserk had done some bad things that he wasn't proud of and he had regretted of doing. He had a good heart and wanted to be better.

You forced something that was the resemblance of a smile on your face and followed her to the kitchen to get the orders and walk them to the costumers.

"Did he try to contact you after you know?" Hope asked you suddenly and you nodded your head as an answer — no he didn't and it quite hurt you. But you had broken up before he got in.

"At least, he didn't dare to after all he did."

You frowned when you heard the tone of her voice. Hvitserk had never hurt you. In fact, the reason he broke up with you was because he didn't want to involve you in his mess, in the shit he was deep into, but it was late for that.

"He didn't harm me." You muttered when you got back with an epty tray in your hands.

Hope rolled her eyes and continued to place the drinks on her tray. When she finished, she turned her eyes on you.

"But he harmed other people. He is a criminal. Prison is where he belongs." Those where her words before she waltzed through the tables with her tray in hands.

Her words were harsh for a man she didn't know at all. Yeah, Hvitserk did awful things, but he wasn't just that. You had seen the good side of his. You had seen the little broken child in him. The one who felt full when you showed him your love and affection. The one who tried to shield your heart even from him.

The rest of your shift went by as usual. There weren't many clients as a typical Wednesday night. But things changed when you got that damned phone call.

It was a couple of times before the closing time when Torvi called. You didn't expect her to, you didn't expect anyone from the family to reach for you. When you saw her name on the screen, you used the back door to get out and answered her call.

"Torvi?" The tone of your trembling voice gave away easily to level of your concern about Hvitserk. Torvi wouldn't call if something bad did not happen. Something had happened. Something that you wouldn't like to hear.

"What happened? You know that it's not safe to speak through the phone." Your body was pressed on the wall next to the door and your hand was clenching the phone.

"Something came up which we don't know whether it stands or not, but I had to inform you because Ubbe said that they are 80% sure that it's true." You felt the despair and sadness in the tone of her voice as well as you could feel the tears forming in your eyes.

Hvitserk — your mind screamed but your tongue didn't. You waited to hear more before you even try to fight back your emotions.

"Tell me for the love of Gods! What happened?" You were almost crying now.

Torvi took a deep breath before her next words.

"They found a body — a body in a really awful state. It's unrecognizable. At the time were are talking they are in a lab waiting for the results of the DNA analysis. But, Ubbe said that they are almost sure that the body belongs to Hvitserk. He didn't contact the brothers after the escape, they thought he was hiding and would eventually come out, but he didn't."

You couldn't hear the most of it. You collapsed on the floor halfway and closed your eyes forcefully in an attempt to fight the waterfalls of tears to fall. Your free hand moved on your face and it touched your forehead.

You stopped hearing. You were crying. He couldn't be dead. Hvitserk couldn't die. Not like this.

"They killed him and threw his body in a ditch in a middle of nowhere. The people who killed him are the same who framed him with this murder he didn't commit." She continued, but you couldn't hear anymore. Your brain couldn't process all these. You couldn't process the fact that Hvitserk was dead.

"Hvitserk..." You muttered his name like it was a prayer between your sobs.

"I know it hurts but you—"

You didn't let her finish. You ended the damned call and let your phone fall from your hands. You hid your face in your palms and let yourself cry and mourn the love of your life — the only person you were able to love this much and loved you back in his own different way.

After some time, you gathered your broken heart and the pieces of your body and got in. You wiped your tears and cleaned your face with some fresh water. You had to stay strong for a couple of times and then you could cry all your wanted.

At the closing, you took out the trash in an attempt to cry to yourself for a bit in the darkness where no one could see your tears for the man you loved the most. You were so sad and shattered that you didn't notice a black figure approaching you.

You only noticed when one of his hands was on your mouth and the pushed you in a dark corner. You eyes opened widely and your heart beat went faster until you saw the face of your captor.

He let you see his face. He took his hood off and got rid of the black scarf which was covering his mouth and nose. When you could finally see him, he freed your mouth and you gasped.

"You!" You whispered out of breath. Your hand run on his features that you missed so much. The last time you could saw him in person was many months ago, almost a month before he got arrested.

"Shh!" His index finger was on your lips.

"Don't shush me! I thought you were fucking dead! Torvi called an—" All your whisper-yelling stopped when his lips fell violently on yours. The very thing he did every time he wanted to get away feom scolding. But this time you weren't going to get mad or stop him, until not as long as you could breathe.

His skilled lips were moving just perfect on yours and the facial hair he had were just perfect. His hands grabbed you by the waist and you placed your own hands around his neck. Your body was pressed on the wall by his own.

This kiss felt like salvation. It was like you were whole again. It felt like you could breathe even if you didn't. You didn't want it to stop, but it had. After all, you two had many things to discuss.

Much to your displeasure, it stopped because of the lack of air to your lungs. His hands left your waist and moved on your face where he caressed your cheeks softly.

But that loving moment didn't last long, before he noticed, your hand collided with his cheek violently and his head turned at the side.

"Was that necessary? Why did you do it?" Hvitserk whisper-yelled. His palm was on his hurting cheek that had your mark on it, along with the mark of your nails.

"You scared me to fucking death with your bloody lies. Plus, you were a total dick to me when I called you in jail." You spoke and gazed at him. You had missed him terribly.

"Hey!" With that Hvitserk grabbed your face between his hands. Your faces were dangerously close for once more. "I told you, you shouldn't have called me there. As for my little lie, it was my only chance to see you." You spoke and left a soft kiss on your forehead.

"And how would that be? The police is out there waiting for a stupid movement of yours — exactly like this one — to get you. They are after me — following every step of mine. You shouldn't be here." You told him and tried to leave him in the darkness. You didn't want him to get caught because of you.

Hvitserk didn't let slip from his hands. His strong grip held there in from of him.

"It's dangerous, Hvitserk." You whispered at him.

Hvitserk smirked and one of his hands placed a strand of hair behind your ear.

"See that was exactly my plan with all this dead body lie. Indeed, there was a body, but not mine — obviously — and we used it to mislead them. They will try to find the body and they won't pay attention to you. At least, not as much as they did." He explained and you smiled.

"Ivar's plan?" You asked all smiling and he smiled back.

"Like you don't know the answer to that."

After that, you stayed there gazing at each other, having only the stars witnessing this moment between you.

"Why did you break my heart?" You asked as your eyes were only on his. You wanted to hear the truth coming out of his mouth.

His green eyes were glowing under the lights of the stars.

"I – I don't deserve you. You are kind and sweet and so angelic and I am the exact opposite. I am so filthy that I'll defile your purity. I've done things that I'm not proud about — bad things."

"Then why are you here now?"

Your question made him think about it himself once more. His eyes were looking only deep inside yours. You could feel his pain when he talked about the stuff he did, you could feel everying through those eyes. It hurt you to think that he felt this way for himself.

"Behind the bars, in that cell, the only thing you can do is thinking. You're thinking about all the right and wrong decisions of your life till the moment you got in — especially the wrong ones keep you up all night. And what kept me up was you. The thought of never seeing you again, never hearing your voice, you laugh, your scolding. I just couldn't live knowing that I hurt you. I love you. My life without you is meaningless."

"Just never push me away again, okay?" You spoke as your hand wiped a couple tears away from your eyes. Hvitserk help you and when there weren't any more tears in your eyes, he caressed your skin softly.

"I love you, you idiot." You muttered and kissed him again. This kiss was so much different from the previous one. It soft and loving.

"The plan is to never let you slip away from me ever again." He spoke as he was caressing your hair.

"And how is that supposed to happen?"

"We will leave together here and now."

You frowned. You weren't expecting him to say something like this. You pushed him back, so you could face him.

"Wait... You want us to leave everything behind — our lives — and run away. This – this is....." You couldn't form a proper sentence. You were to process his proposition.

Kattegat was everything you knew — the place you called home. Everyone you knew was here and by that you meant your friends and some very distant relatives. Apart from your life, his life was in this place. His family, his job.

"(Y/N), there's nothing for us here. If I stay, I'll go to prison and I won't be able to hold you ever again. I will leave at the end of the day, there is no future for me in this city." Both of your hearts were beating fast at the thought that you would never see each other again after this night.

It was true that there was nothing here for you, only these two jobs that you hated. You couldn't know what future had in store for you, but if you let Hvitserk leave alone, you would hate yourself for the rest of your life.

Hvitserk's hand grabbed yours and closed it in both of his palms, but before that his finger gripped your chin and moved your head in such position that you could look at each other.

"The clock is ticking — the time is running fast. You have to give me your answer now. Are you coming with me right now?"

His eyes were begging you to say yes.

His heart was begging you to say yes.

But your mind was the problem. Your mind was hesitating to follow him wherever he was going to take you.

You closed your eyes for a moment. You couldn't choose between your heart and your mind. A whole war had broke inside you.

"(Y/N)?"

At the sound of your name on his lips you opened your eyes.

"I will come wherever you are willing to go. I can't live without you, my love." You told him and hugged him tightly.

Hvitserk wrapped his hand with yours and pulled you close to him.

"Are you sure? If we leave now — together — there's no coming back. We will be both fugitives." He told you smirking.

You chuckled when you heard him.

"That's a risk I'd love to take for you."

With those last words Hvitserk and you run away from the police and the city forever.

[sammyjadedavis]

Funnies thing I’ve seen in a long time!

Torvi: You’re a lying, cheating, piece of shit! You’re not the man I married!

Bjorn: Fine! We’re getting a divorce, and I’m taking the kids!

Ubbe, pushing the monopoly board away: Maybe we should stop playing.

[procrastinatingsoicanreadfanfics]

Vikings + curls and afros

Summary: how would the Vikings react to seeing their friend/partner/... with an afro/big curls for the first time after taking their braids ouut

A/N: I’m so honored that you feel comfy with requesting this from me anon <3

Had to do some research, and I hope I got everything right :) if there’s something off, please correct me in the comments/reblogs

Tagged: @bragisrunes, @demon-of-the-ancient-world, @alicedopey

Masterlist | based on this request | requests are OPEN!

Ragnar

He kinda jumps when he turns around and sees you for the first time

(probably bc he’s high and didn’t realize what was occurring)

He’s one of those annoying people who just touch your hair without permission

So many questions, so unintentionally disrespectful

Lagertha

So in awe of your curls

She loves her hair and loves braiding it

But she’s blonde and white so volume does not exist to her

Will ask you if she can braid it the next time you want it braided

Greatest viking x afro hairstyles

Bjorn

He cannot comprehend

How does your hair just… do that?

It looks so normal when it’s braided and then it’s just suddenly so big and pretty

In absolute awe

He can appreciate art when he sees it

Ubbe

Also very fascinated

Asks you to explain different hairtypes to him

Makes a joke about wanting kids with your type of hair

Highkey thinks you look stunning with your curls

Asks you to never braid your hair again

Hvitserk

Doesn’t notice at first

He’s too busy eating something, but then he sees your hair out of the corner of his eye

And boom, he can’t stop staring

Thinks curls are super cool

Asks if there’s any way he can get them

Don’t tell him abt perms. He tries to do it to himself

Sigurd

I totally agree that Sigurd would be very jealous

Listens to your explanation, is still unsatisfied and wants volume

Tries to tease his hair endlessly

He gets a little more volume, but it’s raining that day

Steps outside for two seconds, ends up looking like a wet poodle

Ivar

Also slightly obsessed with your hair

He offers to get you any products you might need after he learns that curly hair needs a different kind of care

he’s someone who hoards knowledge like a dragon gold, so you can teach him just about everything about afros, curls and their history

gets angry on your behalf when people behave disrespectfully

Torvi

another queen of braids who will beg you to let her do your next hairdo

wants to learn about different hair textures and how curls work

she’s interested in how you manage an afro in day-to-day life – I think especially in viking life afros might be a little difficult to manage

she realizes that the climate is very damaging to your hair and searches through her own stock of hair care to help you

very sweet

[lilacwineandthesinkingsun]

To be in the favor of Gods... PART 4.

AN: I got back into Vikings. AAAABSOLUTELY obsessed w the Ragnarssons ofc... who isn't?

MINORS DO NOT INTERACT: PLEASE SCROLL AWAY! THIS IS NOT FOR YOUR EYES.

Part 3 here.

I know my sister. If they would marry her, and she'd somehow agree, she wouldn't share you with another... she'd rather slit your throats herself..and don't tell me two of the most infamously insaitable sons of Ragnar would be up for celibacy for one scarred woman.. - he said before walking away.

-Don't give up my boys, your mother still has her gifts and how many times did we have sex?!...

3 years later....

Halfdan was away raiding with Bjorn, Halfdan tried to take Kattegat but failed. Alsaug and Ragnar wre now dead. Their sons bloodthirsty, you saw it all. Since you have told Harald that the gods will not let him take Kattegat for now, he was angry. He kicked you out, saying that you must be the whore of Ragnar's sons. So this is how you have found yourself as a servant of Lagertha. Servant, and friend. You were good with kids, your cooking was like it was straight from valhalla, and you were good with healing too. Not to mention your gifts. You had your own hut now. One night, you woke up to Ivar breathing down in your face, holding a knife to your throat.

-You will show me my future or i'll kill you. - he threatened.

You angrily sat up, took the his hand with the knife in it, and cut your palm, holding it up for him to drink, before putting another hand on his temple.

You both saw all the anger, you both saw the past, how he threatened Margrethe, this is also how you found Ubbe was actually married now. You saw him on a carriage in battle, anger and victroy flashing in his eyes. Yet you never saw any woman or any love in his future, nor children. When he opened his eyes again, you let go of him, turning your back to him trying to go back to sleep. In the morning you found a boquet of flowers next to you. It must have been him. He might have a heart after all. You set it aside, getting ready for your day.

In the great hall Lagertha and Torvi looked at eachother after seeing your bandaged hand. You knew they saw it. So you left, saying you'll gather some mushrooms for the soup.

In the forest Ubbe surprises you as you were washing the mushrooms in the stream.

-Why didn't you send the children to gather mushrooms?

-I needed a break from people. - you said with a smile.

-What happened to your hand? - he asked.

-I cut it. - you told him with a straight face, urging away the tears that threatened to escape.

-For whom? - he asked as he sat down behind you gathering you in his arms, gently taking your bandaged hand.

-It doesn't matter Ubbe.

-It matters to me. - he said touching his forehead to the back of your head as he holds you tighter.

-Why are you not with your wife Ubbe? -you asked still close to tears. You believed that now that your brothers disowned you you may had a future with him. Well, not anymore anyways.

He sighed and got up.

-She's fucking Hvitserk in the forest hut.. - he said before walking away.

When you got back Ivar was sitting with Lagherta with his most evil smile, Lagertha's face laced with worry as they both saw you.

-(Y/n)! - he said with fake happiness. - i told Lagherta what you had shown me about OUR future. She had blessed our marriage. We'll marry in 5 days at the full moon. - he smiled as he crawled away. As you stood there looking at Lagherta in disbelief the tears you tried to keep back finally escaping. You thought of running away, or killing yourself. You could not marry him. Surely he wouldn't have sex with you, you both knew that was impossible, but you were terrified of him. He was so full of anger it made him insane, ruthless. You did not love him. That night you visited Torvi and Lagherta, telling them you loved them and wished them the best, before leaving. Ivar got word of it, so he sent a searchparty after you. You were soon found, you tried to stand your ground but you were greatly outnumbered. You were taken back to Lagherta's and Ragnar's old farm, tied to the pillar in the middle. You were bleeding from various cuts, bruises started to form all over you. Then you saw noone for days. On the day of the full moon you saw the faceless bride again. There was no escaping this.

Ivar crawled in, smirking at your abused form. He got up close and held a knife to your face.

-I know you won't ever love me (Y/n), but i need you, you'll help me become even greater than my father.

-Not if it's not the gods's will. - you whispered.

-Well, just to be sure, no one else will ever want to marry you. - he said as he cut a line from your forehead down your cheek, nearly to your neck. He left your eye out. You were bleeding heavily. Slaves came in, crying at the sight, but they dressed you in a white gown, they hid your face with a white cloth, but you bled through it anyways, just as you bled on your dress too. You were the faceless bride in the blood soaked dress...

You don't remember the way to the dock, but you remember the tears and worry in Kattegat's eyes. There stood a man at the end of the dock, with Ivar smiling at you sickly as you tried to stumble towards him. Falling to your knees repeatedly. 20 ships arrived, but noone dared to look away from you. You were trying to walk to the end of the dock, as you wished Thor would strike you with his hammer so you'd die on the way. Ubbe stood behind Margrethe, on the other side stood Lagherta and Torvi. They all angry, yet they couldn't do anything. Ivar won.

As you now crawled halfway through the dock, you heard steps behind you, but dared not to look back. You were gathered in strong arms, before you were handed over to another. Bjorn took a look at your face, gave your nearly lifeless body to Halfdan (he did not know of your brother disowning you yet) before taking his axe and stroming towards Ivar.

-Bring my bride back Bjorn. - he smirked.

-Bride? You think that is how you're supposed to treat someone you want to marry?

-I don't need her pretty, i need her gifts.

Bjorn's nose flared, his jaw clenched in anger before he kicked Ivar's chair into the water, a few of his men already jumping after him.

-Don't you dare even look at her, or the next time, i'll tie you under my ship. - he said before walking away, trying to find you.

Lagherta was treating your cut when he found you, Halfdan was holding your hand to his lips as he prayed you'll make it at least for another day.

-Mother, why is she even here alone?

Lagherta looked at both.

-Harald disowned her, kicked her out in the wilderness after he had lost the battle for Kattegat, which she told him he would lose. I took her in. Ivar said she had shown him that they will marry. But i see now that wasn't true..

Halfdan looked at her in disbelief, then back at you.

-Poor, poor (Y/n).. how could our brother do this to you when you have told him the gods will? - Halfdan asked of nobody.

You were starting to regain consciousness when you hissed as someone grabbed your other hand as well. Panic setting in you started to trash around, until you heard Halfdan's comforting words.

-Shhh it's me sister, it's me, noone will hurt you anymore. shhh, you're safe.

You opened your eyes, looked at him, and then saw Bjorn, with tears in his eyes.

-B..bj...bjorn.. - you whispered.

-Yes, i'm here now. I won't leave you here again. - he said as he kissed your bandaged knuckles.

-You sure won't, i am taking her home. - noted Halfdan.

-N-n-no.. Har-Ha-Harald will kill me. - you said tears streaming down your face.

-I'll go talk to him.. - Halfdan said, before leaving.

-Pl.. please c-c-can you s..stay? - you asked Bjorn after your brother left.

He shutting the doors and windows before gently sitting next to you, holding your hand.

The next morning Lagherta opened the door, to see you sleeping while Bjorn also sleeps in a sitting position holding your hand. She smiled at this antic, wishing it will end well.

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

You woke up to shouts.

Ubbe and Bjorn were shouting over your sleeping form.

-Our brother tried to kill her, and all you can think is leaving your fucking wife, so she'd marry you instead? Do you hear yourself Ubbe? Do you?

-I never loved Margrethe, and i love (Y/n), she is all i've ever loved..

-It is simply not for you to decide brother. Why don't you go and pray she'll make it until tomowwor after what Ivar did to her... - Bjorn said in anger, making you hiss as he gripped your bandaged handa bit too hard, making them look at you.

-I.. i will not marry anyone. Nor do any of you love me. I am still alive only cause of my gifts, and now that i won't even be pretty to look at, i may as well go out and die in the mountains.. - you whispered before trying to get up, but fail.

-(Y/n)... - Ubbe tried to plead.

-Just go.. both of you... - you said turning away from them.

The next time you woke up Lagherta was cleaning your scars gently.

-I'm glad you woke up.. You had a high fever and nigthmares for a week. - she said as she continued. - The boys came here every day to talk to you, hoping you'd hear..

-I.. i heard their stories. I just.. i couldn't tell which was a dream, which was a prophecy or them talking.. - you said.

-For which you wished to be true? - she asked, before the door creaked open to reveal Bjorn with an antler carved fully with runes. He basically ran in falling on his knees next to you as he saw you were awake.

-I'll leave you two to talk. - Laghertha said before gripping your hand and her son's shoulder with a smile.

-I thought you'll never wake up again. - he said bringing your knuckles to his lips and leaving them there.

-Just another prophecy fulfilling itself. We both know i already have seen way past then the bloody bride. - you smiled at him, taking your hand from his, and gently cupping the side of his face. He leaned into your touch with his eyes closed.

-I just wish we could've skipped to the right parts.. - he whispered, his blue eyes shining at you.

-The gods like to test us. To humble us, to make us believe.. and i believe that is just what they did. I am still here, you are still here, you stll visit me every day. No matter that im hideous, or all that im good for is telling what the gods tell me to say..

-(Y/n).. you are so much more than that. You have sacrificed yourself for our people, you took care of our children. You were hurt, battered, bruised yet you still smiled. You are a healer, an amazing cook, one of the greatest shield-maidens, a seer, and the most beautiful woman i have ever seen.

-But.. i .. i am not beautiful anymore.. I saw what... your brother did to me..

-You are still beautiful. A scar won't ever change that... - he said as he leaned closer. Your noses were nearly touching. - I only ever had eyes for you (Y/n).. and i only ever will .. - he said before softly kissing you. Upon the touch your eyes will filled with even more vivid images of the future. Happier times, smiles, loving touches. You could see it all. Growing old together. Yet, most of the pictures had another in them. He was like a ghost, slowly fading, yet he was there.

When he broke the kiss, you knew he saw what you did. Then he saw the tears in your eyes.

-It's okay (Y/n). If that is what the gods want, i'll let him, as long as he treats you as he should..

-But... he's married to Margrethe.. - you said.

-He left her 4 days ago, after you were screaming his name while having a nightmare.

-I.. i don't understand.. why would he.. why would that be enough reason?

-You ever saw how he looked at you? or how he talked about you?

-You know i didn't.. I was a prisoner of my brother, then of Ivar. You were away raiding, stometimes him too, only to come back and marry her, even though he knew she was in love with Hvitserk and Sigurd..

-He was hurt. Now, please tell me what did Ivar exactly do to you..

-He.. he threatened to kill me if i don't show him his future.. - you lifted your bandaged hand. - he then told lies to Lagherta about it before i could even tell her, it was decided, he would marry me. I then decided to leave, to live in the wilderness, but his men outnumbered me. I was beaten, cut, bruised, then tied to a pillar in... in the old farm of Ragnar without food or water for days, then on the day of the wedding, he came in, cut my face " just to be sure noone would ever want to marry me.. then ... he made me.. he made me walk over there like that... laughing... bleeding.. then.. you know the rest..

He was fuming. He threw a cup to the other side of the room, strantling you a bit. Ubbe rushing in as he heard the commotion.

-I'm going to kill Ivar... - Bjorn shouted before leaving, shutting the door behind him making you flinch.

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

It was time to avenge their father. So it was also the time you saw your brothers again. You stood in the middle of the path between Laghertha and Bjorn as your brothers walked towards you.

Halfdan hugged you, before lifting the cloth, taking a look at the scar that adorned your face now. You tried to hide it before Harald sees it, but it was too late. You saw his jaw clenching, but he just walked away, not acknoweledging you. Bjorn hugged you to himself.

-It will be alright. - he said before putting a kiss on your forehead.

Harald saw this, and turned to Halfdan.

-Since when is she his woman?

-As far as i know she is not.

-Does she still have her gifts?

-Yes she does. - Halfdan answered.

At night at the feast Harald stood up and prepared for the toast.

-As you know my beautiful sister is here in Kattegat, i would like to ask for forgiveness for my mistake, and take her to the raid with us.. - he lifted his chalice, looking at you, as all the men were hurraying in the great hall.

Laghertha stood up, smiling at him.

-You have disowned her, humiliated her, she is in this state because of you, and now you think i will let her go with you?

-I am rather sure your son Bjorn will gladly take care of her Queen Lagertha. - he smirked as he walked up to Bjorn, putting a hand around his shoulders. - if we both make it out alive i may even give him her hand in marriage. - he laughed. This was some kind of sick joke. You stood up, lifting the hood from your head, revealing your face to all the men, who went mute at the sight.Scar still showing but now adorned with rune tattoos across the right side of your face.

-I will go, but not for your love, not for your men. I will go to fight beside the Ragnarssons, avengig their father. The gods have shown me great victory, which would be a victory without you as well my dear brother. I have no need for your love, i do not need to forgive you, for all you ever did was use me for my gifts. Which believe me brother had hurt me greater than any of the christian's punishments. My hand in marriage is not for you to give, it is for me to decide. But a month from now we will be feasting for winning the great war, with the greatest viking army this world has ever seen. - you shouted. The men hurraying, drinking again loudly. Ubbe's and Bjorn's eyes sparkling on you, Harald fuming. You left for your room, when Ubbe caught up with you. He pushed you to the wall and kissed you passionately.

The sea was angry, the trip wasn't smooth, but you all made it, you all managed to keep the boats afloat and together. You saw the worry on Ubbe's and Bjorn's face as you nearly fell into the water, but you just smirked at them. When the night came the sea calmed down, and you felt warm bodies crawl on either side of you, both holding you close. You needed not to look, you knew who they were.

In the morning you were gently tracing Ubbe's tattoo on his face, when his bright blue eyes opened, ever so happy to see you so close.

-How are you princess? - he asked in a low voice making you softly giggle before playing with his beard.

-I slept rather well... the weather wasnt so cold last night.. - you smiled at him knowin he knew what you meant. But then with a growl, you were picked up and rolled inberween the ship and the other man. Bjorn held you close to his chest, before motioning Ubbe to go.

-Go take a piss or something, help with the food or row.. - he said before kissing you, as you heard Ubbe laugh.

-Will you not be jealous of eachother? - you whispered to Bjorn.

-We have talked about it a lot when you were sickly. It is fated, our feelings are unmoving and true.. If you'll have us... - he said looking into your eyes.

[spaghettificationandpretzels]

Viking Masterlist

Main Masterlist

Smut 💦 Angst 😨 Fluff ❤ Violence 🔪 Gore/Medical 🤢 Triggering material 🚩

Any smut fics will be marked per Tumblr's community labels, you will need them turned to show to see them.

Ivar the Boneless

You and Ivar spend the night under the stars

Far Away Stars 💦❤ Part 2 💦❤

****

You're a librarian who stumbles upon a book that gives you a window into the past, but when a door is opened you can't control what comes through it.

This Life and the Next ❤❤

****

Rest Your Weary Hands

Queen Aslaug walks into your little Healers store with one request, help her son. Said to be blessed by the gods, you find your life becoming more and more intertwined with the young prince as you do your best to ease his pain. It will soon be apparent that outside forces have other ideas.

Masterlist

****

NSFW Alphabet Viking Ivar 💦💦❤

****

Ivar the Boneless SFW Alphabet Prompt Masterlist

Mini fic of the letters of the SWF alphabet.

Ubbe Ragnarsson

NSFW Alphabet 💦💦❤❤

Hvitserk Ragnarsson

After years of study and effort, you finally secure your dream job, as one of the head curators at the best museum in New York. After inheriting a huge brownstone you're looking for a roommate when your best friend Ubbe comes up with a suggestion, his younger brother Hvitserk. Better yet, you're a food historian and he's a three Michelin star chef.

A Taste of Heaven Masterlist

Ragnar Lothbrok

Ragnar sees you from far away on a raid. It's love at first sight, and now he has to have you.

Little doe 💦❤

[sammyjadedavis]

Love this

🎥 Ida

[sammyjadedavis]

Ivar: I can’t deal with theses guys anymore…

Ubbe: It’s not like I’m the one who was all for the marriage?

Hvitserk: Though you did say you were going to be the best man…

Bjorn: Yeah and I didn’t even let him be my best man, also you lot shut up about me and my wife.

Ivar: You know that loses it’s heat when you’ve had how many wives now?

Bjorn: More then dad.

Hvitserk: Well you’ve had Porrun, Snaefrid, Ingrid, Gunnhild and my personal favourite Torvi. Thank Thor you married her twice!

Ivar: You really are a whore. Ha.

Torvi: Watch what you guys say or he’ll react the same way he did last time you lot did this?

[vikingsinstagram]

I was so excited to think we had a cute photo together then I zoomed in. Not a happy camper any more…You know what you did and who you are! Shame…

[elvinasstuff]

[asongofmarvelanddc]

Sworn Enemies PT10

PAIRING: Alfred X Reader

WORD COUNT: 7874

WARNINGS: Violence.

SUMMARY: While Alfred and Y/N remain at odds, King Harald’s army moves in. An arrest is made, and Y/N learns of a possible sibling.

PART 1 | PART 2 | PART 3 | PART 4 | PART 5 | PART 6 | PART 7 | PART 8 | PART 9

MASTERLIST

A/N: guess who's back (back back) back again

Apparently it was wrong of you to assume that your wedding night would be between just you and Alfred. Instead, here you were, standing in the middle of your chambers, wearing nothing but a slip and a cloak, surrounded by strangers including a Priest and a few of your handmaidens.

Alfred stood in front of you, also dressed in his undergarments and a long cloak, clearly avoiding your eyes. You weren’t quite sure what was happening, but you trusted him, so you remained silent.

The Priest recited something in Latin as two men began taking off Alfred’s cloak. At that same moment, you felt two pairs of hands on your shoulders, attempting to pull yours off as well. In shock, you shrugged them off and turned to confront your handmaidens.

“What do you think you’re doing?”

The two women looked slightly intimidated as they answered, “Undressing you, my – Your Grace.”

You looked at them dumbfounded, “Why?”

The Priest stopped his recitation and turned to you. “Are you not aware of how marriage consummations are carried out?” he asked.

“Of course, I am,” you said, “But if that is what we are doing, why are you all still here?”

No one said a word. You looked between each of the men, waiting for an explanation, but none came. Not until Alfred spoke.

“The Priest has to bless the bed – as he has just done – and then they watch us...get into bed.”

You blinked, taken aback by his words. You had not been told that this was going to happen. 

“It is how things are done, Your Grace,” the Priest said.

“I don’t care how things are done,” you snapped, narrowing your eyes and turning to Alfred, “Do you not think this is a little perverted?”

All the men in the room, bar Alfred, let out a horrified gasp.

“Excuse me, just what are you implying?” the Priest asked.

“I am not ‘implying’ anything,” you said, “I am saying that it is none of your business what Alfred and I do - or don’t do - on our wedding night.”

Everyone in the room looked at you like a woman who had just murdered an infant. Alfred sighed heavily and ran a hand through his hair, “My Lords, may I have a moment alone with my wife?”

They all nodded and began shuffling out of the room, muttering incoherent sentences under their breaths and shooting death glares at you. As soon as the door closed shut, you let out a sigh of relief and visibly relaxed.

“Y/N-” Alfred began with a pleading tone in his voice.

“No, Alfred,” you swiftly cut him off before he could even begin to make a case for tradition, “I will not consummate my marriage like this.”

“I am not fond of the custom either, but it is tradition,” he said, “I'm afraid we don't have a choice.”

You shot him a look and crossed your arms, “And if I told you that in Kattegat we would have to make a sacrifice to the gods, would you do that?”

“We are not in Kattegat, this is Wessex.”

“Yes. And I am not Saxon.”

He let out an exasperated sigh and shook his head, You knew that you were putting him in a difficult position, and that the Priest would not be happy if you didn’t go through with this, but nevertheless, you stood your ground. You had already compromised a lot since coming to Wessex, and this was one thing you would not waver on.

Alfred looked up at you, and upon seeing your arms still folded across your chest and your raised brow, he knew there was no talking you into this. “What am I supposed to tell them?” he sighed, finally giving in.

You let out a breath of relief and looked away thoughtfully. “You’re the King,” you said with a shrug, “Tell them whatever you want.”

He chuckled softly and pressed a kiss to your cheek. “Only for you,” he whispered, a gentle smile on his lips as he walked past you and out of the room.

You walked over to the side of the bed and sat down, letting out a deep breath as you ran your hand over the soft, silky material of the bedding. On the other side of the bedroom door, you could hear voices arguing and assumed that your refusal to do this ceremony was not going over well.

Before long, Alfred returned, shaking his head in annoyance, “We have agreed to dispense with the formalities.”

“You have?” you asked in disbelief.

Alfred shrugged his shoulders as he walked towards you and leaned against the wall, “Well, they were more reluctant than I, but the important part is that we came to an understanding.”

You cracked a smile as you nodded your head, knowing that they probably did not have much choice in that.

Alfred pushed himself off the wall and walked to the other side of the bed. He sat down on the edge, his back turned to you. Although you had been left to your own devices, you suspected that Alfred had only grown more anxious. You could see how tense his shoulders were from where you were sitting.

“Alfred?”

“Yes?”

You hesitated before speaking, “Are you scared?”

“I’m not,” he scoffed, but bowed his head and mumbled softly, “Just nervous.”

You knew Alfred had lived a more sheltered life than most and was not used to intimacy. This would be his first time with a woman, and you remembered how nerve-wracking it had been for you despite being exposed to it for most of your life.

You stood up slowly, removing your cloak in the process and letting it fall to the floor, before walking towards him. He flushed a little as you hiked up your slip and straddled his thighs, but made no move to push you off of him.

He froze as you slipped a hand under his silk shirt and shuddered as you lay your palm flat against his chest. Your lip twitched a little as you flicked your gaze up at him, “Your heart is beating very fast.”

He chuckled nervously and avoided your intense gaze. “Perhaps I’m...just a little bit scared,” he whispered.

You moved your hand from his cheek and brushed his hair out of his face. He let out a deep sigh at your touch and licked his lips nervously.

“You don’t have to be scared with me,” you spoke softly before leaning down and capturing his lips in a kiss.

                             __________________________

“You’re lying.”

“I am not lying, Judith,” you said, “I heard everything. Their plan is to kill Alfred at the War Council. Lord Cyneheard and others are all working together...And Aethelred is their leader.”

Judith looked like she was about to explode with anger. You had told her everything you saw and heard the night before, but she was in denial. She couldn’t bring herself to believe that Aethelred would ever do anything to harm his own brother.

“No,” she shook her head once more, biting her nails anxiously, “No, you’re lying.”

“What reason do I have to lie?”

“I don’t know!” she suddenly yelled before storming towards you, pointing an accusatory finger, “You know Aethelred is the closest person to Alfred. Perhaps you want him out of the way so you can control my son again.”

You let out a sigh of frustration, “Alfred and I are not even on speaking terms.”

“Exactly,” she said, smiling widely like she had just caught you in a lie, “You claim that you are angry at Alfred for betraying you, yet here you stand warning me about an alleged attack on his life. Why should you care if he lives or dies?”

The question caught you off guard. Of course, you knew exactly why. You cared because he was the one who had formed an alliance with your brothers, and without him, it was sure to fall through. 

You cared because he was the father of your child.

Most importantly, you cared because despite everything he had done to you, despite every lie he had told you, you still loved him, and his death would only destroy you.

But you were not about to let Judith know that.

“I don’t know,” you whispered as you turned away from her, your hand resting on your stomach, “I just do, I suppose.”

With a deep sigh, you turned around to face Judith, more determined than ever. “You may not believe me, Judith, but I know what I heard,” you said firmly, fists clenched at your sides, “Now, if you will not do anything to help me, I will find people who will.”

You kept your gaze on her when you finished speaking, waiting - hoping - for a response. If there was one thing that you and Judith should be able to come together on, it's Alfred’s safety. She held your gaze for one long moment, but eventually looked away, shaking her head in denial. 

A defeated sigh escaped your lips as you ran a hand through your hair. You stood there for a moment, trying to come up with other ways to save Alfred’s life. Judith had been your one and only hope, and for a moment, it almost felt like all hope was lost. At least until you remembered that you were not alone in this Kingdom anymore.

“Fine,” you spat as you brushed past Judith and stormed out of the room, “I’ll save him myself.”

                             __________________________

After your heated conversation with Judith, you were in no mood to celebrate Aethelred. Unfortunately, the presence of the King and Queen was required at his wedding - even if he was trying to assassinate said King.

All eyes turned to you as you walked into the chapel and a feeling of deja vu washed over you. Alfred looked surprised when you walked up to stand with him – as if you had much choice in the matter. Standing anywhere else would only draw more attention than you wanted, and neither of you could afford to cause a divide this close to a battle.

You could feel his eyes on you as you took your place beside him, but you didn’t entertain it. Eventually he turned to face the altar.

“You look beautiful,” he whispered as you both sat, giving the rest of the room permission to do so as well.

You glanced at him for a second, a little surprised, but didn’t say a word. Not when you couldn’t tell whether he was being honest, or if he was simply trying to pull you back into his clutches.

And then the ceremony began.

Once again, you felt Alfred’s eyes on you as Aethelred and his bride recited their vows. The same ones the two of you had sworn to each other almost a year ago. 

This time, when you turned to look at Alfred, you let your gaze linger. The nostalgia overwhelmed you as you felt yourself forgetting everything that had happened recently. All the lies, the secrets, the deception. For a moment, it was just you two, back where you were when you said those vows to each other. When you told the people that you were marrying for an alliance, while secretly being consumed with a blinding love for him. 

And then you remembered that the love was only ever one sided. That the pretence was not for the people as you’d thought at the time, but for you. To keep you in line. 

Suddenly, your eyes began to brim with tears, and you cursed this affliction that comes with pregnancy. You looked away from Alfred, not wanting to let him see you like this. Heartbroken over losing him. 

You rose along with the guests as Aethelred and Ethelfled were pronounced husband and wife, and the couple exited the Church. You discreetly wiped your eyes as they did so, but not so discreet because Alfred caught it.

“Y/N, is everything okay?” he asked, eyebrows furrowed in concern.

You turned away from him as you began leaving behind the couple, “I’m fine. Leave it.”

“But you’re crying,” he said as he followed you out, trying his best to keep a straight face to avoid alarming the other guests. 

As soon as you were outside and away from prying eyes, you turned to face him fully, hands on your hips and a scowl on your lips.

“Do you see any tears on my cheeks?” you snapped.

Alfred was bewildered. “No, but I thought I saw–“ he stopped when you raised a brow, “In there, you and I, we– I thought we–“

“You thought wrong,” you cut him off, “You saw what you wanted to see. Whatever you felt in there, you alone felt. I watched your brother and his wife speak the same vows you and I swore to each other...and I didn’t feel a thing.”

He looked like the air had been knocked out of him, “Nothing?”

“Nothing,” you said, whispering it as if doing so would allow you to pretend you hadn’t said it.

His eyes travelled to the ground before turning to leave. He hesitated as he took a few steps away from you, but kept on walking.

You let out a breath as soon as he was out of view, clutching your chest in a futile attempt to numb the heartache. The words were painful to say, but at least now he could stop pretending that the damage hadn’t been done. You knew there was absolutely no way back. It was time he caught up.

“The two of you are fighting,” a voice came from behind you – Bjorn’s.

You rolled your eyes as you turned to face him, “And that makes you very happy, doesn’t it?”

Bjorn didn’t respond. Instead, he watched you carefully, tilting his head as he tried to read you. “What did he do?” he asked eventually.

“It’s none of your concern.”

“You are my sister, and your husband has upset you,” he said, “Of course it is my concern.”

You wanted to tell him everything, not caring if it would only prove his distrust of the Saxons right. You just needed your brother. But you had a duty as Queen to uphold, and now was not the time to cause a rift between your brothers and Alfred. They needed each other to defeat King Harald. 

And no matter how angry you were right then, you certainly didn’t need your brothers committing treason by murdering Alfred for what he had done to you.

“Even married couples fight, Bjorn,” you said, “You should know. How many times have you been married now?”

He chuckled and shook his head, crossing his arms as he did so. “He must have done something terrible if you will not tell me,” he frowned as he brushed past you, “But don’t worry, I won’t ask again.”

                           __________________________

Ubbe had grown close to Alfred in the last few weeks, and you knew that it would not be difficult to ask for his help in stopping the planned assassination. The rest of your family - Bjorn to be specific - proved to be the real task. Still, you managed to bring them all to the dining hall just a few minutes before the War Council and ask for their help.

“So, you want us to help you stop these people?” Bjorn asked, the hint of a smile on his lips, “Why would we do that?”

You narrowed your eyes at him and clenched your jaw. His amusement was making a mockery of the situation. “Need I remind you that without Alfred, your deal for the lands in East Anglia will never be upheld,” you said, “And without him we will all hang...At best.”

Bjorn rolled his eyes but didn’t say anything. He knew that you were right, and he hated it. 

“Why can’t you tell your husband and allow his own men to protect him?” he asked, “Or are you still not speaking to him?”

Ubbe’s head snapped towards you. “You and Alfred are not speaking? What happened?”

You glared at Bjorn for exposing your marital troubles before letting out a heavy sigh, “It’s only a quarrel, nothing important.”

“I suppose it explains why you did not attend Ubbe’s baptism,” Torvi said as Bjorn rolled his eyes, “But it is strange that Alfred did not say anything about this to you, Ubbe.”

They began speculating amongst themselves, completely ignoring that you were standing right in front of them. You looked to Lagertha, pleading with your eyes to make them listen to you.

“I don’t think your sister called us here to discuss her marriage, do you?”

You gave her a small nod as they all turned their focus back on you. “I have said all that I need to say,” you said, “I need your help. Please.”

You watched as all four of them - Bjorn, Lagertha, Ubbe and Torvi, shared a look between themselves, and let out a sigh of relief when Bjorn nodded.

“But after this is done, I want all of us to meet back here,” Bjorn said, his eyes on you.

“What about?”

“It is a family matter,” he said as he stood up from the table he was leaning on and walked past you to the door, “I will see you after the meeting.”

                           __________________________

Being a protector had always been a part of your identity. As a child, you protected Ivar from the other children who couldn’t understand why he was different. After your father left, you protected your mother from the enemies who seemed to come from all sides. And now, here you were again, surrounded by enemies and desperate to protect your unborn child and her father from those that wished to harm them. 

You glanced at Alfred standing beside you, blissfully unaware of the danger he was in. Judith stood on the other side of him, looking almost as anxious as you felt. She knew that if there was to be an attack, it would be today. It was clear that a part of her was simply in denial. You could tell by her pale face and anxious eyes that she was on edge.

The sound of Alfred addressing the crowd seemed to fade into the background as you scanned the crowd for Aethelred. Before long, you caught sight of Cyneheard whispering something to a fidgety Aethelred. Your breath caught in your throat as you saw the glint of the daggers hidden in their robes, ready to attack.

As you looked around, trying to find either of your brothers in the crowd, you noticed how strange most of the men were behaving. They kept glancing quickly between Aethelred and Alfred, hands hidden in their robes, no doubt gripping weapons. They were waiting for something.

Finally, you spotted Bjorn in the corner of the room and gave a subtle nod towards Cyneheard who now had a firm grip on Aethelred’s forearm as he whispered harshly into his ear. He began making his way towards the pair, his hand resting on the hilt of his axe.

Cyneheard continued to whisper into Aethelred’s ear. That was what they were waiting for - Aethelred. But the man they had put their faith in was hesitating. From where you stood, he looked pale and sweaty. He was breathing hard, averting his eyes quickly when he caught you staring.

For a moment, you wondered if he could actually do it. He might harbour negative feelings towards Alfred, but killing your only brother is easier said than done.

You discreetly raised a hand to Bjorn, asking him to wait as you watched Aethelred shuffle from foot to foot nervously. He wouldn’t do it. He couldn’t do it.

Finally, he whispered something back to Cyneheard, which enraged the older man and caused him to spit something back in reply and back away slowly. They had lost.

You let out a sigh and closed your eyes, a small smile pulling at your lips. But that relief was short lived when you heard what Alfred was currently announcing to the room.

“I am thankful to all of you, and to God, for allowing me to lead you into battle,” he said, “I know that I have the support of my beloved brother Aethelred, and of Ubbe, Bjorn and Lagertha.”

He turned to look at you earnestly, “And my wife, Y/N, who will be there by my side...as she has been from the start.”

Your eyebrows furrowed in confusion as you watched him. How could he say something so foolish? He would only get himself killed. You were fighting to save his life, only for him to endanger it on his own. The irony was not lost on you.

As Alfred concluded his address, you stood speechless and watched him leave the throne room with his guards. Judith approached you, anger evident in her eyes.

“I knew you were lying,” she spat through clenched teeth.

“I didn’t lie.”

“Then why was there no attack?”

She waited for a response or explanation – neither of which you had to offer. When she realised that, she turned and left in a huff, relieved that the ordeal was over.

You, on the other hand, knew that it was not. Although you wanted to rush after Alfred and convince him not to join the fight, there was someone more important that you needed to confront.

                          __________________________

It had been a while since you had pressed a dagger against someone’s throat.

You had missed the feeling.

After the War Council, you followed Aethelred and ambushed him just outside his study. There was a short struggle - one that ended with him pushed up against his bookcase with the sharp end of a dagger aimed at his jugular.

“Tell me, Aethelred,” you whispered, “Have you ever seen me angry?”

“I've seen you in battle,” he grunted as he tried to move his neck away from the blade, “It’s nothing special.”

You chuckled lowly and tilted your head to the side. “In battle? That is me at my most calm,” you said, “The only time I get angry – blinded with rage, really – is when someone threatens my family. Just ask King Aelle.”

Aethelred looked down at you, his expression wavering. “What do you want?”

“A confession.”

“A confession? I have not done anything.”

You pushed the blade against his neck, nicking the skin and drawing blood, making Aethelred freeze in place. “You conspired to murder Alfred and take his place as King.”

“I did no such thing!”

“I saw you,” you said, “You and your friends. Lord Cyneheard? Is he your second-in-command?”

He looked away from you guiltily.

“I listened at the door of your secret meeting place,” you continued, “And I heard you plan to murder Alfred today at the War Council, so don’t lie to me.”

Silence as his gaze dropped to the floor. His whole body deflated, arms falling to his sides as he stopped fighting you.

“I did it. I conspired to overthrow my King,” he murmured almost to himself, his brows knitting together, “I tried to murder my own brother.”

You faltered.

You had not expected it to be that easy. That he would admit it without much hassle. And most shockingly, he looked ashamed.

Slowly, you dropped the dagger from his neck and stepped back a little, eyeing him cautiously. “Why did you do it?”

He shook his head, his eyes still on the ground. “It wasn’t my intention for it to go this far,” he muttered, “I was angry after my mother forced me to give up the Crown to Alfred. And, yes, I envied all that he came to be. All that he came to have.”

“The more people accepted him, the more I burned with rage,” he said, his eyes raising to meet yours, “He had taken everything that was rightfully mine and I was left with nothing. Not even our mother looked at me with anything more than disdain.”

You looked away when you caught yourself empathising with him. Sigurd had felt the exact same way about your mother and Ivar. And deep down, there was a part of you that had felt that way at some point too.

“Why you?” you asked, stepping forward, "Why did they choose his own brother to replace him?"

"I have royal blood, the right wife, and most importantly, the correct allegiance," he spoke frankly, "They knew that I would rule like my father did, and that in my hands, Wessex would always come first."

"Wessex has always come first with Alfred."

“They do not see it that way,” Aethelred said, “Alfred was making too many changes in the Church. He offered land to our enemies, and even worse, married a heathen.”

You frowned and folded your arms across your chest. “Was that not always the plan? For Alfred to marry me, have a child that is part Viking and use us to broker peace?”

“It was, originally,” he confessed, “We’d expected you to be with child shortly after the wedding, but it never happened. And then your brothers arrived and you were no longer needed.”

“So what changed?”

“Alfred did,” he said as he moved across the room, “He refused to be rid of you. We'd thought we were the ones deceiving you, but the whole time, Alfred was deceiving us.”

What did that even mean?

“What changed your mind, then?” you asked and stepped closer to him, “Why not take what you wanted? You could have killed him, killed my brothers and I, and taken the throne for yourself.”

His gaze faltered as he looked away from you and walked towards his desk, leaning forward against it, his knuckles pressing down hard on the wood.

“Alfred did,” he whispered almost to himself, “Even without knowing that I had betrayed him, he was somehow able to remind me of the sacred bond between brothers. After speaking with him today…I have never been more disgusted by myself. By the fact that I ever entertained the idea of harming him in any way.”

He turned to face you. “I will never forgive myself for the part that I played in this treasonous act. And I swear to you on my life that I will never betray my brother again."

You didn’t say anything to comfort or reassure him. As far as you were concerned, he deserved to stew in his shame. But you couldn't ignore the sincerity in his tone.

"I told your mother about my suspicions and your plans," you said, eyeing him as a horrified look descended upon his face, "She didn't believe me."

The wave of relief that washed over Aethelred was clear to see, but it only enraged you. How could he escape justice after all that he had done? Were you just supposed to pretend like none of it had happened? Did Alfred not have a right to know that his brother tried to kill him?

"Judith may not have believed me, but Alfred will."

His eyes bulged out of his head as the vein in his forehead began to pulse. He was panicking. Good. You wanted him to feel a fraction of the fear that you felt when you found out about his plans.

"Please. You cannot tell him," he managed to splutter as he stepped closer to you.

You simply eyed him with contempt as he pleaded with you, "Alfred deserves to know what kind of man his brother is."

"Do it for his own sake," he said, "Knowing this will crush him, and he needs to be focused on the coming battle."

Aethelred waited with baited breath as you mulled it over. He was trying to manipulate you, and you knew it. Still, he had a point.

"I'm not so foolish as to believe that anything you say or do is for Alfred's benefit," you spoke curtly, "But one thing is true: Alfred loves you, and I will not be the one to break his heart by telling him about you."

Yet another breath of relief escaped his lips. He bent down against the desk taking in deep breaths and mumbling some sentiment of gratitude.

You couldn't stand the sight of his pathetic self anymore, and with a huff, made a move to leave the study. But you couldn't go without delivering one final warning.

"If I ever suspect that you plan to do something to so much as undermine Alfred, I will hack the bones in your back and carve out your lungs while you still breathe."

                           __________________________

Even though you were late to Bjorn's meeting, you had not missed much. Bjorn had introduced a man who claimed to be Ragnar's son and had a grudge against Alfred. Arguments ensued.

Somewhere amongst the aggression, you heard someone call your name.

"Y/N," Ubbe nudged you with his shoulder, "You've been quiet. What do you think about this?"

You trained your eyes on your alleged brother. Magnus. He kept glancing at Bjorn out of the corner of his eyes, clearly uncomfortable under your scrutinizing gaze.

Slowly, you stood from your chair and approached him. He held his breath as you narrowed your eyes at him.

"You don't look like us," you observed.

"That hardly proves anything," he scoffed, "You don't look like your brothers either. Nor Ragnar"

"Of course not, I look like my grandmother," you glanced over your shoulder at your brothers, "Bjorn and Ubbe look like Ragnar."

You were quiet again as you continued to stare, this time not just examining his physical appearance, but his story too. None of it made any sense.

With a heavy sigh, you turned to face your brothers with a shrug. "I don't believe him either," you finally said, agreeing with Ubbe and Lagertha.

Magnus suddenly exploded. "How can you say that to me?! After all I've been through to find all of you?"

Bjorn held up a hand to silence him. "Why don't you believe him?" he asked.

"His story does not match Ragnar's. Or anything Ragnar would say or do," you said, "Our father would never say that he loves you. I was his daughter and he was barely able to say those words to me. And if he truly claimed you as his son, he would have told Ivar, so that he could tell us."

"Maybe Ivar kept it from us," Bjorn suggested.

"He wouldn't have kept it from me," you said, then turned to Magnus, "You may very well be Viking, but you are not our brother, Magnus."

His body visibly shook with anger as his face went red and his clenched fists turned white. But instead of unloading all his frustrations on you, he stormed out of the room, muttering incoherently to himself.

Bjorn glared at all of you before standing to leave without a word.

"Bjorn," you called out to him before he left, "Don't believe anything he says. Not about Ragnar, and not about Alfred."

                           __________________________

Ubbe had a plan – a good plan.

Despite this, you remained anxious. The army was riding out in a day, and you couldn't help but feel unprepared.

You'd decided to visit the battlefield to make sure everything was in order. So far everything seemed to be that way, except for one thing.

"Edwin!" you called for your Second who came running to your side, "We need at least three more catapults on the left."

"Yes, Commander," he nodded and rushed off to carry out your order.

Suddenly, the sound of grunting and swords clashing came from behind you. You swiftly turned around, hand on your axe ready to be drawn, only to find Ubbe sparring with Alfred. You would have intervened, but Alfred seemed to be holding his own against your brother, a sight that was surprising to witness.

Alfred smiled when he successfully defended himself against Ubbe's attacks, a smile which faltered when he spotted you standing just a few feet away. You quickly looked away and pretended to examine the catapult. He approached you before long, but chose not to speak as he stood beside you.

"I did not know you would be here," you said, refusing to look at him.

"Ubbe thought I should familiarise myself with where we will be fighting soon."

You sighed and closed your eyes when you remembered the stupid decision Alfred had made to participate in this battle. At least you still had some time to talk him out of doing something so life endangering and foolish.

"Actually, I'm glad you are here," you cleared your throat and looked up at him, "I wanted to speak to you about something."

His eyebrows raised in surprise, “What do you need to speak to me abou–”

“You cannot lead the army,” you cut him off sharply.

“What?”

“You heard me,” you jutted out your chin and folded your arms, “You cannot lead the army, Alfred, you can barely fight.”

“I can fight,” he retorted, “I have been training with Ubbe for months now.”

You scoffed in response, “A few sparring sessions with my brother and you think you are ready to fight a Viking army led by King Harald?”

“Yes.”

You let out a frustrated sigh and buried your face in your hands. Why was he being so stubborn? Especially when you were trying to save his life.

“I am only trying to protect you,” you whispered harshly.

He chuckled softly and cocked his head to the side, “I remember trying to do the same for you only a short while ago.”

“That is not the same."

“Is it not?” he asked rhetorically. He let out a sigh when you didn’t speak. “It is my duty to lead the army,” he said, willing you to understand, “How can I expect my men to fight for this Kingdom, if I will not fight for them?”

You shook your head swallowed the lump in your throat, “You have nothing to prove.”

“Yes. I do.”

“You could die,” your voice cracked as you spoke. You turned away to avoid his gaze, not wanting to give him the satisfaction of knowing that you still cared.

“I know,” he said and sucked in a deep breath, “Which is why you need to know the truth.”

“Gods,” you rolled your eyes and began to walk away, "I have heard all that I need to hear.”

"No, you haven't," he grabbed your arm and pulled you back towards him rather roughly, “Why won't you just let me explain?”

You snatched your arm back. "Because I know what you are going to say," you said, "That you are sorry for lying to me, and that even though it started with deception, you truly do love me now. I know. But it does not change the fact that you have hurt me deeply. Your explanation is not good enough."

"I-," he began in a soft voice, "I am so sorry, Y/N."

You blinked back the tears brimming in your eyes and whispered, "It's not good enough, Alfred."

                           __________________________

The day had come to ride out to battle and neither you nor Alfred had taken the other's advice and chosen to stay back. Judith said her farewells to her sons then, for some reason, decided to escort you out to your horse.

"What was the name you gave, when you came to me about Aethelred?" she asked out of the blue.

Your brows furrowed, "Cyneheard?"

"I thought so," she said, her voice eerily calm as she looked straight ahead, "I know I was a bit dismissive with you, but I assure you, I will do everything I can to get to the bottom of this matter."

You both came to a stop when you arrived at your horse. "What does that mean?" you asked as you turned to her.

"Never you mind," she said as you climbed onto your horse, "I trust you will keep Alfred safe on the field?"

"Of course."

She cracked a smile and walked away to stand with Aethelred's wife. You tried to forget the conversation, but you couldn't shake the unsettling feeling that something was about to happen.

You waited as Alfred approached and climbed onto his horse next to you. He didn't say a word, his eyes instead scanning the crowd before finally settling on one man.

"My Lord Cyneheard," he said, his voice just as calm as his mother's.

"Yes, Sire?"

"You will not be leaving with us today," he continued.

You turned to Aethelred with furrowed brows and noticed just how alarmed he looked.

"Why not?" Cyneheard asked, guilt evident just from his tone.

"Because you are arrested. For treason."

A tiny gasp escaped your lips at Alfred's command. Your head snapped towards Judith as Cyneheard was pulled off his horse and dragged through the mud into the Villa. She simply gave a smirk and a grateful nod before turning to go back inside.

You were still in a daze as you rode out of the compound, shocked by what had just happened, and by the feeling of unease that Judith had managed to spark in you.

                           __________________________

The army had temporarily set up camp as you waited for Ubbe to return from King Harald. He needed to buy enough time for your army to travel around King Harald's if you were to ensure that the battle would be fought on the grounds you had chosen. He would be back soon so you returned to your tent to put your armour on.

The bustling of the men outside served as a reminder of what was coming. You sat glued to a chair as you imagined all the ways this day could go wrong. All the people you could lose.

You thought of your baby, and what would happen to her if you hit the ground too hard, or if you were struck in the wrong place. The mere thought of losing her devastated you, and you knew it would crush Alfred. He would never forgive you.

“Y/N? Are you there?”

It was him now. You could just make out his silhouette through the thin fabric of the tent. Slowly, you pulled on your boots and walked to the front of the tent, hesitant to let him in.

“Y/N...I can see you.”

You sighed and placed your hands on your hips. It wasn’t about him, you were just afraid that talking to him would end in vomiting or tears, and you could do without either today.

“Come in,” you said, opening the flap and stepping aside to let him pass.

He ducked his head as he walked in, looking like a giant in your low tent. He stopped in front of you, eyeing your form as he thought of the right words to say.

“I have been worried about you,” he looked at you earnestly, “I haven’t slept.”

He wasn’t lying, and the sentiment warmed your heart. 

“I have been worried too,” you replied, “Every time I close my eyes, I think about everything that could go wrong.”

"You have been in this situation more times than I," he said, "Is it normal to feel this way?"

"I suppose. But there is something about today..." you sighed as you looked into his eyes, "It feels like there is more at stake."

He held your gaze for a moment as you both stood in a comfortable silence. Until you realised that it had lingered too long and he was standing a bit too close. You looked away quickly and cleared your throat as you stepped back.

"Why did you come here, Alfred?"

He ran a hand through his hair, a thoughtful expression suddenly descending on his features.

"We could die today," he said, "And I needed to see you...and to speak to you-"

"Alfred," you cut him off and turned to grab your sword belt and axe, "You and I are not going to have this conversation today of all days."

"I know, I just," he stopped, searching for the right words, "Before we go out there, I just need to know that you don't hate me."

You raised your gaze to look at him, and your heart sank when you realised just how heartbroken and bereft he was. Suddenly, all the fight, all the anger, was gone, and all that was left was sorrow and an aching heart.

“I could never hate you, Alfred,” you whispered, a hint of shock in your voice at the possibility that he would ever think that.

He perked up at your words, asking, “You don’t?”

“I don’t,” you said, then let out a bitter chuckle, “I have wanted to. And, believe me, I have tried. It would be easier.”

A long stretch of silence followed, neither of you knowing how to go on. Even though you loved him, you didn’t know when — or if — you could ever forgive him.

“I don’t know where we go from here,” Alfred sighed, “Believing that you hated me had a sense of finality, but now…our future seems uncertain.”

You simply shrugged and looked down to secure your axe on its holster, “It always has been.”

“Not to me.”

You flicked your eyes up at him to find him gazing intently at you. He loved you. Deep down you knew it.

A part of you wanted to trust him again. A part of was searching for a reason to forgive him. Why couldn’t you just take that first step?

When you didn’t reply, Alfred let out a short breath and turned to leave the tent.

“Wait.”

He froze in his steps and quickly turned around.

You sucked in a sharp breath. "If you loved me – if you truly loved me – why did you convince your advisors that you were only marrying me to produce a Viking heir?" you asked, "You were already the King, you didn't have to. And why didn't you tell me of your plans."

"What was it you said to me once?" he said, cracking a smile, "As King, I can do whatever I want. But it also means that I cannot do whatever I want."

You remembered saying the words to him, and couldn't believe he did too.

"As for not telling you," he continued, "I foolishly thought that I was sparing you. I realise now how wrong I was."

"You should have moved on after I left, married a lovely Princess," an exasperated sigh left your lips as ran a hand through your hair, "We could have saved ourselves from all of this. Why didn't you?"

"Is it not obvious?" he asked, "I met you, I fell in love with you, and then I couldn't live without you."

You didn't know if you believed him, but you were certain that your heart had skipped a beat.

                           __________________________

It was time.

All the planning, the scheming, and forged alliances had led to this battle.

Atop your horse and staring down King Harald's army, for a moment, none of it seemed real. Your head was still in that tent, going over what Alfred had said again and again.

You glanced at him, proudly sitting on his own horse beside you. He had never looked more like a King – a true leader of his people. Broad shoulders, stern expression, and motivational words. But only you could see the way his lip quivered when he spoke, and the way his hands shook as he held onto the reins.

"Are you afraid too?" you asked and he turned to look at you. He hesitated before answering.

"Yes."

Slowly, you reached out and took his hand, intertwining your fingers as you did so. His breath caught in his throat as he looked up at you. You held his gaze and squeezed his hand. No words needed to be said. You both knew what it meant.

                           __________________________

The battle had raged on for what felt like an eternity, and things were not looking good for your side. You had chosen to stay behind and command the archers in an effort to protect your child, but now...

With a grunt, you jumped off your horse and spoke to the soldier beside you, "You have command."

"All of you, with me now," you yelled the order to all the soldiers on your right before charging into battle.

Within minutes of being in the thick of it, you lost count of how many men you had taken down. It was like your body was acting on its own, slaughtering people who were once your fellow countrymen like they were nothing but cattle.

You came up behind a shield maiden who was attacking one of your soldiers and slit her throat. As her body slumped against yours, you spotted Alfred out of the corner of your eye locked in his own battle with a man twice his size. He would never make it out of that alive. Not on his own.

Without a second thought, you threw the body aside and started to run, expertly dodging every sword and axe thrown in your direction. You could see Alfred's face as the weight of his opponent's sword bore down on his shield. He knew he couldn't defeat this man. You willed your legs to run faster.

The next few seconds felt like time slowed down. Your heart sank into your stomach as you realised you wouldn't make it to Alfred. The regret of all the things you wished you had said to him in that tent hit you like a ton of bricks.

You heard yourself scream as the man raised his sword to deliver a final blow. Just as he did, an axe came flying out of nowhere and buried itself deep in his skull.

Aethelred stood just a few feet away, breathing heavily as the man sunk to the floor and a pool of blood gathered around his head. He walked over and dislodged the axe from where it was embedded, then to Alfred to whom he offered a hand.

You froze as you looked on in shock, surprised by Alfred's saviour, but more grateful than you had ever been in your entire life. It was only a moment's hesitation, but you knew you had made a grave mistake the second you felt it.

An arrow in your thigh.

You didn't realise when a strangled cry tore through your throat as you fell to your knees. It sounded like it had come out of someone else's lips. The blood gushed out of you even as you pressed your hand to the wound.

And then a second arrow.

This time, you felt the pain everywhere and you couldn't be sure where you'd been hit. All you could see was an arrow head protruding from your torso, and the excruciating pain that came with it. It was too much to even attempt to scream.

As you collapsed to the ground, struggling to stay awake – to stay alive – the clashing of swords and cries of dying men all faded to the background. You could only hear one thing. Echoes of the same sentence repeated over and over again.

"The Queen has fallen!"

***

Well this was a long time coming, huh? Thank you to all these lovely supporters! I'm sorry this took forever ❤️

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[we-are-only-halfway-home93]

Come and Lay the Roses 34- Lots to Answer For- [Ivar x OC]

Summary: The rat is caught in a trap.

Characters: Ivar x OC, Bjorn x Torvi, Ubbe x Margrethe, Sigurd x OC, Hvitserk x Thora, Ragnar, Lagertha

Warnings: arranged marriage, violence, sex, torture, language, mentions of rape/sexual assault

Ch. 33

AN: I actually wrote most of this chapter when I first came up with the idea for this story so I didn't have to add much to complete it. Enjoy!

“Only trust thyself, and another shall not betray thee.”

~ William Penn

It was late, or early depending on who you ask, when Björn called the men together. Ivar was the only one who hadn’t been sleeping. 

The fire was roaring and the whiskey was flowing when Björn entered the office. Ivar was standing back by the windows, his tension palpable to them all. They were eager to hear what Björn had learned. 

Björn cleared his throat before unrolling a blueprint. “Ecbert owns three buildings on the south side of the dockyards. One of them is used for imports and exports. He uses it strictly for holding property that he plans to ship out of the country. Floki did recon all day yesterday and said nothing but tobacco and cider left that building.

“The second building is storage. All large personal property is kept there. Large-scale paintings, vehicles, and collector pieces. Anything he doesn’t have space for at any of his properties sits in that building. Rollo had one of his teams check it out last night and they didn’t find anything that gave off a heat signature.”

Björn took a deep breath and looked across the room at Ivar. The man in question straightened at the eye contact. 

“The third building is heavily guarded.” Björn gestured to the blueprint on the desk. “Four guards walk the perimeter at all times. Two stand watch on the roof. Infrared counts ten heat signatures moving inside at all times.” Björn took a deep breath and seemed to brace himself. “An eleventh heat signature remains unmoving in this,” he pointed to a corner of the blueprint. “Part of the building. After two days of surveillance, it hasn’t moved beyond the confines of that room.

“We can only assume that it’s Aaline.” Björn straightened and crossed his arms over his chest. 

“Assume? What if it’s not?” Ubbe was the only one brave enough to ask the hard questions. Björn nodded. 

“I thought about that. Twice,” He held up two fingers. “Ecbert was observed entering the building. The infrared caught a figure moving to that room, lingering for several minutes before leaving again and that’s when Ecbert left the building. We have to assume Aaline is being held in that room.”

Ragnar nodded and cleared his throat. “So, what’s our plan of action?” Björn smiled. 

“We take two teams to enter on foot. There are only two men on the roof so motion from below will draw them inside. Each team enters from opposite ends. One comes in from the east,” Björn trailed his hand across the east side of the blueprint. “The other comes in through the west.

“The team on the west needs to move quickly. One person,” Björn looked up at Ivar. “will break away from the group and head directly to this room.” He swept his hand across the room where they suspected Aaline was being held. “Ivar, your only job is to secure Aaline.” Ivar’s jaw tensed. 

“This entire mission is designed to get her out safely and quickly. Your only concern is getting her out unharmed. Revenge can come later. Do you understand?” Björn’s tone was calm but his meaning was clear. 

Ivar kept his glare on Björn for one tense minute before looking away. Björn took it for the submission it was and moved on. “As soon as we get the all-clear from Ivar that Aaline is out of the building, we’ll clear out the same way we came.”

He looked up at the grim faces of his brothers. “Aaline is the priority. We’re moving in to retrieve her and nothing else. Once she’s clear, we leave like we were never even there in the first place. Everything else will come later.”

Ragnar nodded. “I approve of this plan.” He leaned back and lowered himself into his chair, steepling his fingers. “Now, who is my rat?”

None of the sons looked at him. It wasn’t a surprise that they had kept their focus on Aaline. She had always been the priority. It was a surprise when Ivar cleared his throat and stepped forward. 

“Aethelwulf had a loose tongue before his death. Told me he’d give me information if I let him live.” Ivar shrugged when Ragnar raised his brows. “He informed me that Freydis had been stalking me and Aaline.” Ivar sneered as Freydis’s name passed his lips. “He told me that she was the one who told Ecbert to take Aaline.”

Ivar met his father’s eyes. Ragnar knew then that he’d made a mistake keeping Freydis on their payroll but he never thought the girl had the backbone to turn against him. He’d never underestimate another employee again.

He leaned back in his chair and looked up at Hvitserk. “Bring her here.” Hvitserk nodded and he and Ubbe made a quick exit.  

.

Ivar turned when the door opened. Hvitserk ushered Freydis into the room, giving Ivar a firm look, and closed the door, shutting him and Freydis inside the room, alone.

Ivar smiled at her, his face giving nothing away of his intentions. Freydis smiled demurely back and stepped towards him until she was in front of him. “Hello, Ivar. Hvitserk said you wanted to speak to me.” 

Ivar hummed and brought his hands up to her face, stroking his thumbs over her cheekbones. 

Looking at her now, he couldn’t find what used to draw him in. Her eyes were dull, absent of any life she used to have. The smile on her face looked painted on as if she’d been drawn by the hands of an artist who had never seen a true smile of happiness. It didn’t reach her eyes. He could see the gears turning behind them, calculating her plan. 

“My wife is missing, has been for nearly a week.” Freydis tilted her head back as Ivar continued to stroke her cheeks. Her eyes were closed as he lulled her into a false peace. “Someone told Ecbert where to find her. Someone betrayed me.” She opened her eyes slowly, blinking as she focused. 

She kept her gaze locked on his as he searched her eyes. She was either stupid or delusional if she believed that he wouldn’t retaliate. “Are you going to deny it?” He whispered. She tilted her head up towards him and ran her hands up his chest. “No. I told them where to find her.” She pressed forward and touched her lips to his. He didn’t react.  

She pulled back and stroked his face, her eyes calm and content. “Where is he keeping her?” He asked. She was truly delusional if she answered him.  She smiled up at him and bumped her nose against his. “One of his warehouses near his home. He goes there every day to check on her.” Ivar was genuinely surprised that she answered. He underestimated her obsession with him. Never again.

Ivar smiled at her, betraying nothing. He pressed his hands against her hips, turning her back to him. Freydis leaned against him and hummed in satisfaction. Ivar slowly pulled the belt from his slacks, winding it around his hands. “I loved you once, Freydis. I never thought I could love another again after you betrayed me.” He brought his hands up over her head and draped the belt around her throat. 

“I must thank you, Freydis.” He whispered tenderly against the shell of her ear, stroking his fingers up the column of her neck. “Because of you, I know what it really is to love and be loved.” 

He pulled the belt tight around her throat and fell back, landing hard on the ground in front of the desk. Freydis gasped and struggled against him, her legs kicking uselessly and her hands coming back to grab at his face. Ivar turned his head away from her and tightened his hold on his belt.

Her struggles became weaker and weaker as the oxygen flow to her brain was cut off. Ivar maintained his hold on her until she stopped moving and well after that. 

He sat up, pushing Freydis away from him. He stood up slowly, the ache in his hips more pronounced than normal. He took a deep breath and pushed the door open. His brothers stood on the other side and they turned to him at once. 

He breathed heavily before shuffling forward, his gait slow and stuttered. He wrapped his hands around the banister and sighed. “She’s in the warehouse. He goes there every day to ‘check’ on her.” 

Ivar turned to his brothers then, his gaze passing over Freydis’ body with little care. “First, we get rid of the body.” Björn glanced inside the office and grunted. “Then, we save my wife.”

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