#ulvar

[madeleinefjall]

Ulvar in hades style ✨

[triste-guillotine]

EINHERJER "Aurora Borealis" Demo 1994

1. De Sorte Sjøers Land 2. Aurora Borealis 3. Witchking 4. Einherjer

"A freezing winter sweeps the land A creeping frost sets in The fog encircles the castle Surrounded by a total silence Black clouds weigh upon from above The candles are the only lights The trance is getting deeper Reaching upon thy mighty thrones Then an iceblue shimmer hits the wall The wind whistles a melancholy tune Feel their presence Oskorei

During dark and stormy nights of winter You may see the lights of Thule Aurora Borealis

Crossing the wastes of the northern fields Frozen by the cold that paralizes the will Enter the darkest depths of the northern woods Tormented by the heat of the hellburning flames Black moon rising from the sea way up north Wotan rides across the sky His fallen warriors hails him high A freezing winter A creeping frost Black moon rising Thy mighty thrones"

[tomoleary]

James Stokoe “Fin Fang Foom” Marvel Monsters #1 (2019) Source

Mike Allred “Ulvar Meets Gigantus” Marvel Monsters #1 (2019) Source

[theroyalbeaumont]

Oh, you sweet summer child. 😂

[yeullove]

SHS gonna bleed my wallet dry for sure, but it's worth it! 💸💸💸

[balleater]

hey is this tary art from the beacon profile pic options new or did i just forget about it?? because i know the rest of the vox machina ones are from the characters 101 page but i don't remember ever seeing this before

[xxmyhomexx]

THE DRAGON SAGA RAGNAROK: The Cabin

This is a continuation of The Wedding series. This doesn't have any connection with the story itself, this girl just has an unhealthy obsession with Ulvar and Tsvia!

This post contains material suited for older readers. Please use caution!

~~~

Joris's roar rumbled through the night as she carried Ulvar and Tsvia to the awaiting cabin. On the journey to Dragon Island, they ended up in the town of Hrafnista, home of Arngood and konung Inga. They trained with their army, fought with the soldiers, and somehow, they were married under a covenant for the town's Almighty One. From the way they spoke and worshipped, the citizens did not pray to Módi or Odin himself.

Still, Ulvar and Tsvia were eternally grateful for Inga and Arngood. Because of them, they finally had a chance of reaching the island and unlocking the answers to Tsvia's mysterious past. That would wait, however, for now the couple flew through the snowy night to a cabin promised from Inga.

"There it is!" Tsvia pointed to a patch of woods. In the distance, they could make out a thick, black mass that appeared to be a building surrounded by orange light. True to the konung's word, the couple's getaway lay beyond the forest. Joris growled as she landed in the fallen snow, leaving behind thick footprints as they climbed off her back.

The cabin was standard, black logs mounted on top of each other. Flames danced from torches lining the front door, the breeze carrying embers toward the sky. In the windows, more candles perched on the sills. Joris knelt down as Ulvar helped Tsvia climb off, catching her in his arms.

"My, my," she smirked. "This is one way to carry your wife over the threshold."

"You've seen nothing yet, girl," Ulvar growled.

"Ah, there you are!" A voice called their attention. A man wrapped in a thick cloak greeted them with a warm smile.

"Everything's ready. I was sent to welcome you in."

"Thank you, sir," Ulvar and Tsvia bowed.

"May our Lord bless you," the gentleman smiled, walking toward Joris and climbing on her back. "I'll fetch you two days from now. Goodnight, Sir Ulvar and Lady Tsvia!"

Joris chirped and took off into the night. The newly weds watched as they disappeared into the darkness, leaving them truly alone for the first time that night. Ulvar carried the girl toward the cabin, kicking the door open and closing it behind them.

Somehow, the inside reminded Tsvia of Fosna. A fireplace crackled with burning logs, with a large king-sized bed covered with various furs and blankets. A writing desk with pens and parchment was pushed to the right wall, combined with two trunks carrying their outfits for their stay. Walking toward the desk, Ulvar noticed a rolled sheet of yellowed parchment and unwrapped it.

You will find the bath attached to the back of the cabin. Everything has been replenished upon your arrival. Do not concern yourselves with training until your return. Enjoy your time together, for there is no better time like the present! ~Lady Inga

"Wow," Tsvia huffed an exhausted breath. "Everything's so beautiful."

Ulvar folded the parchment and placed it back on the desk, turning to see his wife admiring the decor. It was like they walked into the fôrung's home. The desk, the book shelf, the huge bed that he slept in. Her gut pinched at the thought of Oddmand, fear tightening her insides.

What was he doing in this moment? Hel, what were the berserkers even planning? They must have caught onto her and Ulvar's disappearance, for two soldiers and a dragon to go missing at the same time was a call to arms.

They'll never forgive us, she mused. But...our destiny's greater! Tsvia bit her lip and trembled, turning toward the fireplace. Embers danced in her icy blue eyes as she reflected on the decisions that brought her here.

"Hey," Ulvar's hot breath tickled her ear and neck as he slinked his arms around her waist, turning her around. "Are you ok?"

"Ulvar...do you...do you regret this?"

The son of Orm's eyes widened as he stared at her, grabbing her shoulders and gazing into her eyes.

"What?"

"Do you regret this?" Tsvia repeated. "All of it? Coming with me...marrying me?"

Her voice lowered in a whisper. It was a maddening question, but it ate at her heart. She dragged him into this, she made him travel with her, she and him are now stuck here because of her! Traitorous tears threatened to run down her cheeks, forcing her to close her eyes. Why, why did she do this to him? She didn't deserve him, she didn't!

"Tsvia," Ulvar's voice cracked. "How could you ask me that?"

"Look at what I've done," the girl shook her head. "If you hadn't followed me, you wouldn't have-mmmph!"

Her lamenting halted when Ulvar's mouth clamped over hers, his lips digging into hers with a fiery, burning kiss. His bride melted as she wrapped her arms around his neck.

"I only regret," Ulvar brushed his knuckles across her cheek. "Not wedding you sooner."

"What?" Tsvia blinked.

"I'd have forsaken my role," Ulvar repeated. "And made you my wife. It would have guaranteed your safety and Oddmand's protection. Of course..."

He stared out the window into the snowy night. "It doesn't matter anymore. My prayers have been answered, and you're now my wife. Because of you, I'm able to live again."

Tsvia blinked, too stunned to speak but no too stunned to smile. She kissed him again, slow and languid. His moans hummed low against her mouth.

"Now," Ulvar sucked her bottom lip, grazing it with his teeth.

"I believe," he kissed the base of her throat. "It's our wedding night."

Nodding, Tsvia let him turn her around toward the fireplace. Her wedding dress started to feel too hot and uncomfortable from where her husband's hands roamed, squeezing and kneading her curves, breasts and backside while his lips sucked and nipped her neck, leaving marks.

"Mmmm, Ulvar..." she moaned.

"I can't believe," he took off her headpiece, casting it aside. "You've hidden yourself for so long."

Tsvia closed her eyes as he started to untie the ribbons of her gown. Heat pooled in her stomach, threatening to explode with each passing second.

"By the gods," Ulvar breathed. "I love you."

"I love you, too."

After tugging the last bow free, the konung's son tugged the front of her dress down, exposing more of her toned body. Tsvia helped shrug it off, kicking it away followed by her shoes and earrings. Turning around, she helped him with his suit and pants. She unbottoned one button after another, bearing it all for her to see as he shed each layer. Her eyes gazed at the scar across his hand, the hand that mixed their blood together. Ulvar took her palm, the one with the same wound, and kissed the faded skin.

"Will it be a silent night?"

"N-no."

Growling, he threw her on the bed, straddling her hips. His predatory eyes reminded her of Fenrir, the terrifying wolf belonging to Loki. Yet, he did not scare her. In fact, arousal burned in her core.

Ulvar kissed her hot skin, biting and leaving marks on every inch he explored. Tsvia arched her back, moaning into his mouth.

"Remember..." he grabbed a fist full of her long waves. "In the snow?"

Blushing, his wife nodded. "How could I? Y-you animal..."

Ulvar chuckled. "Hmmm..."

A devious smirk crossed his lips as Tsvia yelped when he flipped her over. Now the girl lay on top of him, his hands firmly grasping her hips. Her face deepened in color, reality crashing around them. A woman taking charge wasn't in his cards, but for tonight, Ulvar made an exception only for her.

"Don't be shy," he encouraged her. "Show me what you want."

He rose so their foreheads touched. "Show me the animal you are, my wife."

No longer holding back, Tsvia bucked her hips, earning him a low groan. She grinned and leaned down.

"You're at my mercy now."

She licked her lips and plunged her tongue in his mouth, tasting meat, mead, and the scent of wood. Ulvar acceptef the invitation, deepening their kiss and fisting her hair. When she broke away, the runes on her arm started to glow.

"Agh!" she clutched her arm, expecting to feel an unpleasant burn. "Whoa..."

Ulvar's eyes widened when she gripped his shoulders, blinking her glowing blue orbs. She froze on top of him.

"Tsvia," her husband sat up, cupping her cheeks in the palms of his hand. "What is it?"

"Nothing. I'm fine."

Blinking, her eyes returned to their normal icy shade. It was a fleeting feeling, but she could have sworn Heide's power flowed through her veins. It was not the burning sensation that made her want to claw her own arm off, it was like the magic she held was finally starting to accept her.

Both of them noticed the scar still glowed blue. Ulvar caressed it, bringing it to his lips. Pulling Tsvia with him, he started to grind beneath her.

"Make me yours," he pleaded against her lips. "I need you."

That request was her undoing. Tsvia arched her back and sank against him, eyes scrunching together. It wasn't unpleasant, but the more she shifted, it started becoming uncomfortable.

"Oooh..."

"Don't force it," Ulvar reminded her. "Take your time."

Tsvia sucked in a lung full of air, exhaled through her nostrils, and melted against his body. It was more than before, more glorious and pleasurable than their firs time. Ulvar grinned as she surrendered to his desires. She grabbed his scarred palm and pinned it above his head, kissing him fully.

"It..." she moaned. "It feels better than before."

Ulvar sat up, wrapping his arms around her waist.

"AAUGH!" Her mangled cries carried through the cabin. "Oh, Gods, Ulvar..."

"How does it feel," he asked. "To be the one in control?"

"It-it's amazing!"

Ulvar never closed his eyes, watching her set the pace for them both. Her eyes never glowed blue again, but the scar's color never faded.

"I'm-I'm gonna..." Tsvia gasped. "Don't hold back!"

"Never," Ulvar declared. "I'm yours!"

They pulled away before they could dive over the cliff, aiding each other along the way. Slick with sweat, their heavy breathing mingled as they fell on the bed together. Tsvia trembled on top of Ulvar, her body vibrating against him. When she tried to climb off, she winced and collapsed on top of him.

"Hey," Ulvar held her close to his chest. "Are you ok?"

"Y-yeah..." she shuddered. "I-I t-think s-s-so."

"Come here."

He aided her under the covers as she took time to recover. Tsvia whimpered as she curled into a ball.

"I'm done," she declared. "I'm going to sleep."

"You pushed yourself too hard, my wife. Nearly tired me out, too."

Tsvia laughed, her body relaxing in his embrace. "Oh, like your job was much harder!"

"Are you not aware of your weight?" Ulvar groaned dramatically. "It took me forever to carry you over the damn threshold."

Tsvia slapped his shoulder and shifted her weight, grinning ear-to-ear. "I hate you."

Ulvar smiled back, staring into her eyes. They lay in comfortable silence before Tsvia bit her bottom lip.

"You know..." she twirled a strand of hair around her fingers. "I could see us living like this."

"How?"

"Traveling on a dragon, seeing the world, it doesn't sound so bad."

Ulvar assessed her question. "What about Hrafnista? We're guaranteed a home there, and Lady Inga's been so kind."

Tsvia shrugged. "I don't know. I even thought about settling on Dragon Island when we arrived...after the danger passes."

Ulvar's brows shot up in surprise. "Dragon Island?"

Tsvia winced. "...yes?"

"Out of all the places, why there?" Ulvar propped himself on his elbows. He wasn't mocking her or outright offending her. Genuine curiosity sparkled in his grey eyes, his head tilting revealing a boy with the heart of a man.

Tsvia sucked in a breath and scratched the nape of her neck.

"I'm connected to all of this, Ulvar," she sighed. "My powers, they're growing. You saw my eyes."

She cupped his cheek, stroking the scar across his upper lip. "What if the island needs a guardian? If someone is to protect it, then...what if it's supposed to be me?"

Ulvar frowned. He hadn't thought about it like that, instead focusing on the secrets of Tsvia's past. What did Heide want with her? Why was Einar after her? What did her scar have to do with Oddmand? Dragon Island was the key to all of this. He'd find out along with her, protect her and be entrusted with the greatest secrets that rivaled his father and his entire family's rule.

"We can never be certain," he finally spoke. "We've run away from Fosna, and there's no doubt the fôrung's coming after us. Our safest bet was to keep traveling, but here we are in Hrafnista, training with Lady Inga's soldiers and married."

Married. The word was still foreign, even if it didn't sound bad. All his life, Ulvar was expected to follow in his father's footsteps. Marriage wasn't promised, unless it served a greater purpose. If he were to be married, Orm was very clear that it would be for a business arrangement. His mother never married for love, and in Fosna, Frida would have found a husband amongst the soldiers.

But in Hrafnista? Marriage was still law, but it was free! Love was free, his heart was free!

"We'll cross that road when it comes," he kissed her forehead. "Right now, we sleep."

Tsvia giggled as he rolled on his side, cuddling her close to him with his head buried in the crook of her neck.

"Goodnight, Ulvar. I love you."

"I love you, too, Tsvia."

[fey-wanderer]

by Ulvar ( Twitter | @littleulvar )

This is just perfect 😍 Can totally see Jester doing this to everyone in the Might Nein during the holidays.

[nathalerias-danudiel]

I am Nythras, Deathspeaker of Ulvar Village, Son of Ivar Stormpeak, and master to Skogarheim

[art-by-circuits]

What Remains of Ulvar Gulch

[madeleinefjall]

Hidden from the rest of the world

[whatkindofnameisella]

healing m9 official art trauma by looking at the Katarzyna Ulvar Bekus critical role 101 character art

[astralleywright]

ulvar’s cr character portraits truly are peak though i keep caleb’s in a tiny little locket (my phone) so i can look at him whenever i like

[malasowka]

I was truly lost for words, I love the comp, the colours the vibe the emotions aaahhhh

So grateful to Ulvar for this beauty ❤️

a lil secret santa for @avatarkasia-art 💕

[metalindex-hu]

Freki a Varg énekese mesélt nekünk a zenekar új albumáról és az aktualitásokról

Freki a Varg énekese mesélt nekünk a zenekar új albumáról és az aktualitásokról - https://metalindex.hu/2023/11/06/freki-a-varg-enekese-meselt-nekunk-a-zenekar-uj-albumarol-es-az-aktualitasokrol/ -

Ewige Wacht címmel jelent meg a német VARG legújabb lemeze, amelyet egy jelentősen megújult felállás rögzített. A zenekar körüli változásokról és az új lemez felvételéről az énekes Freki mesélt a Rockvilágnak.

A Zeichen 2020-ban jelent meg, ezért a koronavírus miatti lezárások miatt azt a lemezt nem igazán tudtátok megturnéztatni. Mikor álltatok neki az új anyag megírásának?

Még a Zeichen kiadása előttről is vannak ötletek az új albumon. Ezt a három évet azzal töltöttük, hogy tökéletesre csiszoljuk a dalokat. A hangszeres részek által kiváltott érzésekre koncentráltunk, mivel ezeket akartam a dalszövegekben is megfogalmazni.

Tehát most több időt töltöttetek a dalszerzéssel, mint általában?

A három év nagyon hosszúnak tűnhet, de nem azt jelenti, hogy több időt töltöttünk volna zeneszerzéssel. A magánéletünk elég sűrű volt ebben az időszakban, és ez rengeteg energiát emésztett fel. Borzasztó nehezen sikerült összeegyeztetnünk az időpontokat, nem volt egyszerű a zenekari próbákat sem összehozni.

Sokkal több női éneket hallunk a lemez, mint a Zeichen dalaiban, most jobban bevontad Fylgját a zeneszerzésbe?

Talán ez a legnagyobb változás a VARG zenéjében. A súlyos gitárokat és a hörgést finom női énekkel és dallamokkal egyensúlyozzuk. Szerintem rengeteget nyertünk ezzel az új hangzással. Fylgja már a dalszerzés kezdetétől hozta az ötleteit. Azt meg kell említenem, hogy a zeneszerzők közül Fylgja az egyetlen, aki nem gitározik. Emiatt nála teljesen másképp születnek meg az ötletek, mint a zenekar többi tagjánál. Ő általában zongorán mutatta meg nekünk a dallamait. Úgy érzem, a dalok egy teljesen más dimenzióba kerültek, az új lehetőségek sokkal nagyobb szabadságot adnak nekünk.

Ulvar és Rohgarr is most vehettek részt először a dalszerzésben, sikerült velük is hamar megtalálni a közös nevezőt?

Mindketten másfél éve csatlakoztak a zenekarhoz, viszont már régóta ismerjük őket. Ulvar a gitárosunk, Morkai egyik legjobb barátja, turnékon többször találkoztunk már vele, több mint egy évtizede tagja a pogány színtérnek. Rohgarr a zenekar alapító dobosának a helyére ült be. Ugyan Fenrier már nem aktív tagja a zenekarnak, lélekben mindig velünk lesz! Úgy döntött, hogy új életet kezd, az Egyesült államokba költözött, ahol a Red Bull Forma-1-es csapatának kezdett el dolgozni. Rohgarr talán a legképzettebb zenész, akivel eddig volt szerencsém fellépni. A zenélés mellett tanít is, már több oktató könyvet adott ki. Az ő csatlakozása is új távlatokat nyitott meg előttünk, teljesen másképp közelít a játékhoz, mint Fenrier.

Hihetetlen lelkesedéssel beszélsz ezekről a tagcserékről, mintha most került volna minden a helyére.

Így van, már turnézunk az új felállással, és soha nem élveztem ennyire a fellépéseket! Mintha egy családi összejövetelen lennék, a zenei tudás mellett a csapategység is csak erősebb lett!

Teljesen demokratikusan álltok a dalszerzéshez? Bárki hozhatja az ötleteit?

Próbáltunk a zeneszerzés során minél több időt együtt tölteni. Ha valaki nem tudott személyesen ott lenni, annak átküldtük a vázlatokat, hogy otthon rakhassa hozzájuk a saját témáit. A szövegeket mindig a kész dalok alapján írom meg. Összhangba kell kerülnöm a zenével, ha egy adott szám nem vált ki belőlem érzéseket, képtelen vagyok nekiállni a szövegírásnak. Teljesen kiszámíthatatlan, hogy ehhez mennyi idő kell. Van olyan dal, ami már két hallgatás után összeáll bennem, máskor akár hónapokba is telhet, mire ráérzek a dologra. Emiatt lesznek olyan dalok is, amik nem kerülnek fel az adott lemezre. Nem a legjobb ötleteket szoktuk teljesen kidolgozni, hanem azokat, amik a legjobban megérintenek minket.

Hogy vágtok neki a felvételeknek? Van már egy kialakult hangzás a fejetekben, amit szeretnétek a lemezen hallani?

Hogy őszinte legyek az új album hangzása messze felülmúlja az előzetes elvárásainkat. Sikerült egy alapvetően súlyos, mégis kristálytiszta és a dallamokat kiemelő hangzást összehoznunk. André Hoffmann volt a producerünk, és már az előzetes anyagokon is úgy szóltak a dobok, hogy leesett az állam. Mondtam is neki, hogy ez így tökéletes, ne változtasson semmin! Az előző lemez felvétele előtt napokat töltöttünk a gitárhangzás csiszolgatásával, most már elsőre azt hallottuk, amit szerettünk volna!

Az albumot kiadtátok egy duplalemezes digipack formátumban is, erre vendégénekesekkel is felvettétek a dalokat. Hogyan sikerült összehoznod egy ilyen sokszínű társaságot? Vannak olyan előadók is, akiknek semmi köze a metalhoz, és egy részüknek a német nyelv sem lehetett könnyű.

Tizennyolc éve turnézunk, ennyi idő alatt az ember rengeteg barátot találhat a világban. Mindig is nagy rajongója voltam az ehhez hasonló együttműködéseknek, és ezt nem csak a metal zenén belül értem. Próbáltam megtalálni az új számokhoz a legjobban passzoló hangokat, rengeteget agyaltam azon, hogy ki tudná a legtöbbet hozzátenni az eredeti felvételekhez. Próbáltam olyan énekeseket felkérni, akiknek a hangja vagy nagyon, vagy egyáltalán nem illeszkedett az adott szám zenei alapjaihoz. A címadó dalt például úgy küldtem át a Forndomos Ludvignak, hogy a német szövegeket lefordítottam neki svédre is. Azt gondoltam, hogy az anyanyelvén akarja majd felénekelni a szöveget. Legnagyobb meglepetésemre azzal hívott fel, hogy németül szeretné felvenni, mivel úgy sokkal jobban tetszik neki a szám ritmikája. És nem ő volt az egyetlen, többen is úgy gondolták, hogy maradnak az eredeti szövegeknél. Chris az Alestormból meg sem kérdezett, ő vegyesen használta az angol és német szövegeket. Nekem nagyon tetszik a végeredmény, szeretném megköszönni mindenkinek, aki részt vett a munkában!

Az eddig bejelentett koncertekkel csak német nyelvterületen léptek fel, láthatunk majd benneteket esetleg Magyarországon is?

Idén csak német nyelvterületen lehet majd látni minket, az ok nagyon egyszerű. Ezekben az országokban van a legnagyobb közönségünk. Jövő nyáron viszont szeretnénk ott lenni a legnagyobb európai fesztiválokon, reméljük hozzátok is eljutunk majd!

[xxmyhomexx]

THE DRAGON SAGA RAGNAROK: Wedding, Part 2

This post is not connected with Seven Hearts or the story in any way. I just love Ulvar and Tsvia so much! Enjoy!

~~~

"We discuss the tradition of marriage in Hrafnista."

The candles hanging from the chandelier blew out as a cold wind whipped through the house of Inga, the ruler of the village where Ulvar and Tsvia now resided for the time being. The couple before the great konung almost dropped to the floor, their eyes twisting into quarters and jaws almost breaking from how far they dropped.

"EXCUSE ME?!" Tsvia shouted.

This is going so well, my lordess, Arngood groaned internally. She served the woman well, yet she smacked her forehead at this idea.

"Please, let me-"

"No way!" Tsvia interrupted, glaring at her. "Marriage? What do you mean by that? Are you suggesting giving me AWAY?!"

"Uh, Tsvia-" even Ulvar couldn't stop her.

"My own mother wanted to marry me off, and now you're doing the same!"

"DAUGHTER OF BORY!" Inga's voice boomed over her. Tsvia's rant dropped mid-sentence when she saw her raven black eyes flash in warning. Reluctantly but not without glaring, she stepped back and allowed her to explain.

"That tongue will get you killed, girl," Inga growled. "Now please follow me."

Behind the throne, a large tapestry of a family hung before them. Inga lead the couple toward it, the anger in her eyes disappearing fondly at her portrait. It was grey and black, but the regal king and queen kneeling beside the woman sitting on the throne shone with pride. The konung caressed the silk with a huge smile.

"My mother, too, was promised to a powerul man"

Tsvia and Ulvar glanced at one another.

"Hrafnista was once a town under the rule of a bastard konung. My family were the wealthiest merchants who lived here, and when they saw the interest he took in her, they sold her virtue for his services."

"My mistress's mother was promised to one of his boys," Arngood cut in. "They were married only in a day's time. She almost..."

Gulping, the warrioress bowed her head. "Her husband, though older than her, was the kindest and most patient of the sons. He knew she was broken, but together, she began to find purpose in her arranged marriage. In just a few months, they overthrew the konung and took over."

"My father exiled her family from the village," Inga turned around. "They rebuilt Hrafnista's rule from scratch. Women were given work, a chance to fight and ride into battle. When I was born, they made it clear I was to be the new konung in their place."

"When did you take over?" Ulvar asked.

"Twenty five years ago on my eighteenth birthday."

"So young," Tsvia shook her head.

"Yes, but Odin was fortunate with me," Inga agreed. "Marriage became my father and mother's most sacred law. If the person didn't want it, their freedom is still their greatest treasure. That is why I never married. I wanted the world to see a woman could be just as powerful as a man."

"Marriage is not just our law," Arngood narrowed her eyes. "It is a covenant. There's a power greater above Odin's court, one that has preserved over this Earth far longer than any of us."

Ulvar and Tsvia tensed as Inga's lips thinned in a pale line. She offered her hand to the girl, rolling up the sleeve of her shirt and gazing at the rune mark: the same mark that glowed as from the stories about Heide. How does she connect to her? She intended to find out along with them.

"Arngood's correct. We don't forbide intimacy, but if you are serious about a partner, marriage is final in Hrafnista. You will honor them, take care of them, and treat each other as equals."

Inga grabbed Tsvia's wrist and showed the scar to Ulvar.

"Your powers, my dear," Inga rubbed her thumb over the runes. "Will be his, too, if you consent here and now."

"Now?!" Tsvia's astonished voice echoed.

Unlike her, Ulvar's gaze hardened. The ruler must have sensed his feelings for her, feelings so deep that it crossed her own mind faster than he caught on, even in this moment. Arngood's heavy boots slapped against the stone floor, hovering over them.

"We've seen everything, warrior," her smug grin stretched across her face. "Nothing escapes my mistress's eyes."

Inga released Tsvia's arm and turned to Ulvar. Like a mother, she ran her fingers through his soft brown hair. Steely eyes, a firm but determined stance, strength that Odin himself bestowed, and a heart for the only girl traveling beside him.

"This boy," Inga nodded. "Has already made an oath deep in his heart. Haven't you, son?"

Ulvar blinked, sucking in his upper lip, stretching the scar across it wide.

"Son of Orm," Arngood crossed her arms. "Answer the lady when she speaks."

"Yes," Ulvar's tone was final. "I have."

"And..." Inga tucked his hair behind his ear and leaned in closer. "You're serious about her?"

The konung's son straightened himself to his full height. While taller than Inga, he did not radiate arrogance in so as to being Orm's son. His title was not important in Hrafnista, unlike Arngood's. However, his oath and love for Tsvia was greater than anyone who ruled over him.

"Absolutely."

Inga smiled wide, stretching across her eyes. "I knew it."

Letting him go, she walked away from the pair and commanded Arngood forward.

"Tsvia, daughter of Bory, former berserker of Fosna," the woman spoke in favor of her ruler. "Are you to take this man as your husband?"

Tsvia, stunned into silence, eyed Ulvar briefly. "I, uh-"

"Do not answer," Arngood frowned. "Unless you are honest. The heart is not just a muscle that pumps blood...it is also your character."

She pounded her chest with pride. "Ulvar has proven his love for you, but what have you done for him?"

Tsvia bit her lip and sighed in defeat. "I've lied, stolen, and pretended to be a man. Everything I've done was to protect my family and pay off a debt to a man whose son my deceased brother murdered."

Inga rolled her eyes and sighed. Arngood frowned, shaking her head.

"What does that have to do with Orm's son? You've lied, hurt and betrayed him. Your own goals outweighed the latter, enough for another to get hurt in your place."

"I know!" Tsvia growled, suddenly defiant and bitter. "I never wanted that, I swear! My life has been hard. I just..."

Tears stung her eyes. "I wanted my family to be safe. I was so caught up, so focused on my goals, I never thought about the mental capacity my lies would weigh on me."

Now that was the truth. Arngood nodded, her eyes softening.

"Yet my love for Ulvar..." Tsvia's voice hitched in her throat. "I never lied about that...not at all."

"And has he forgiven you?"

"I've hurt her, too!" Ulvar answered in her defense. "Our tragedies are what brought us together. I forgave all the lies, all the pain, just like she has done for me. The past no longer matters."

Both women watched as he grabbed Tsvia's hands, grinning. "She is worth disobeying a thousand orders for, if not all."

The tears in Tsvia's eyes slid down her cheeks as Ulvar kissed her. Arngood walked back to the throne beside her konung, an honest gaze in her good eye.

"So, daughter of Bory, we ask you again. Are you to take Ulvar, son of Orm, as your husband?"

Tsvia hissed in a deep breath, nodding. "I do."

Arngood smiled at the girl. Breaking apart, Ulvar and Tsvia watched as Inga rose from her throne.

"In three days, you swear your oath for all of Hrafnista to witness. A serious covenant is proof that marriage is not just the law of man, but of our Holy One as well. A union between two lovers must never be delayed."

"You..." Ulvar tightened his hands in Tsvia's grip. "You will wed us so soon?"

"As my parents and I have done many times before," Inga grinned. "Arngood, take the girl and spread the word. We have preparations to make and a night to celebrate. Make no haste!"

Arngood gripped Tsvia and lead her out the front doors. Inga motioned Ulvar close to her. "You, my darling, are needed with me."

~~~

True to Inga's word, all of Hrafnista begun to prepare for Tsvia and Ulvar's wedding in three days. The young warriors still trained and fought together, but the ceremony of marriage was the most sacred. Frigg's Day, the day that honored the goddess of fertility, was the most respectful. The small folk spoke of joy and curiosity.

"Inga has never done one so early!"

"How is that so? Do the gods of Asgard protect her?"

"Hrafnista wouldn't have lasted as long without them."

Nobody dared contradict their ruler, not even Tsvia when in Arngood's chambers. Everything was so strange, so new and untraditional! Inga was a backwards konung, but if she'd been in power as long as she has, then she was doing something right. Sitting in front of the mirror, Arngood fanned out the train of her dress.

The gown was passed down from Inga's mother. Its skirt and bodice were pure white, stitched with golden thread that accented the ends of the sleeves and skirt. A matching cloak tied across her chest, her hair decorated in long intricate curls. Two simple golden hoops dangled from her ears.

Tsvia always hid her figure under bulky and baggy men's clothing, but now, sitting in front of the mirror wearing a wedding dress that hugged her breasts and legs...she'd forgotten what it was like to be true to her gender.

"Arngood," Tsvia peered over her shoulder. "Why now? Why not until after finding the island?"

"There may not be a tomorrow," Arngood stood. "We live like it could be the end of the world. Why delay the inevitable?"

"But," Tsvia gulped. "Our families, our friends. If all are to witness this union, then they should as well."

"That's not true," Arngood contradicted. "Only the ones who support you should have the honor."

"But-"

"What if your loved ones oppose your union?" Arngood's brows crossed. "Would you sacrifice your happiness for their sake?"

"No, I-"

"Your mother wanted to marry you off for money, for a murderer's debt. You did not get to enjoy your life. Everything revolved around your family, Tsvia. You sacrificed happiness, peace and prosperity."

Arngood started to mess with the strands of Tsvia's hair. "In Fosna, even happiness was limited. They let you fight, but Oddmand held you back from your calling. Because of that, you and Ulvar left together. Such times can never be ignored or prolonged until it's too late."

Tsvia frowned and balled her hands in fists. Yes, every word she spoke was true. She never got to enjoy her life, she never made friends, and even love was sparce. When she left, it was the only time she and Ulvar could act upon their feelings without restrictions.

"Love is powerful, Tsvia," Arngood rested her hands on her shoulders. "Love is never delayed. If you push it away, you'll realize too late it was a good feeling."

Again, Tsvia was stunned into silence. Arngood placed an ornate head piece on her head made from white daisies and golden poppies. It was subtle, but none the less beautiful.

"You sound as if you speak from experience."

"I..." Arngood gulped. "I do, but I don't regret coming into Inga's service."

She squeezed her shoulders. "You are ready."

Tsvia stood up, flicking the cape over her shoulders. There was no warrior before the girls, no woman in disguise of a man. In front of them was a queen fit for the throne of Asgard. Arngood untucked the collar of her dress and smiled.

"You are indeed a worthy berserker," she eyed the amulet around the girl's neck. "Heide must really value you."

"I wish I understood who I was."

"In time you will. Now come, we are needed."

Arngood looped her arm through hers and they walked out of the house together. Winter's chill bit into their skin, but it was not as harsh unlike in Fosna. Snow flakes drifted from the sky, coating the women in light specks of white that blended in with Tsvia's wedding dress.

Walking a bit more, they came upon the town square. Tsvia's ice blue eyes widened ten times their size at the setting before her.

How they prepared, she had no idea, but in front of Inga's house, a hearty crowd of townsfolk and soldiers alike waited for her to stand with Ulvar in front of the konung. The snow had been cleared and a long trail of flowes formed an aisle. Arngood tugged her forward, nodding reassuringly.

"Let's go, daughter of Bory."

Tsvia gathered the skirt of her gown and walked toward Inga, her arm linked around the warrior's. Everyone stared in awe of the girl's transformation.

"Wow, mommy, she looks like a queen!"

"My, my, if I had a fröken like her..."

Hushed whispers pricked at her ears, intensifying the girl's realization of the night before her.

"My konung," Arngood bowed. "I've brought the bride."

Beside the thrown, two armed guards held axes close to their chests, and there their konung stood. Her hair was twisted into buns atop her head, two long grey strands accenting her triangular face. A dress embroidered with many colors hugged her skinny frame, along with the emerald crown perched on her forehead.

"Lady Tsvia," Inga announced. "What a pleasant night to be alive!"

The crowd chanted in agreement. Inga grabbed Tsvia's hand and held it in the air.

"Today we celebrate the union of a couple whose love has brought hope upon our world. Lady Tsvia, daughter of Bory, is to wed the mighty Ulvar, son of Orm the Terrible!"

Turning around, she pointed to a large warrior with a face bearing many scars and a long black beard.

"Volund," she nodded. "Bring the boy and gather the swords!"

The giant nodded and turned on his heels, disappearing into the house. Inga let go of the bride and grinned to the crowd.

"This girl has been blessed by our High Almighty the power of the Aesir," she clapped her hands. "She may not understand, but we, the people of Hrafnista, will be her guide as long as it takes!"

"YES, LADY, YES!" The soldiers pounded their chests. The double doors of the grande house opened, and in front of Volund was Tsvia's soon to be husband.

Ulvar's suit was white and gold just like her dress. The coat fanned out just like the train, but shorter and tailored to his body. His hair was brushed from his face, his eyes more alive than when they'd lived in Fosna.

Tsvia gasped in awe at how he looked. Ulvar halted when he spotted her, rooted on spot. She looked so different, so beautiful, so soft. The dress hid nothing like her baggy clothes had done, hugging her body and accenting her hair. Smiling wide, Ulvar practically bounced beside her.

"Lady Inga," Volund's voice rumbled. "The swords."

He held out two swords sheathed in grey holsters bearing the same runes that scarred Tsvia's arm. Inga thanked him as she took them in her hands.

"These swords belonged to my mother and father," she addressed the awaiting couple. "Today, they are yours. Now my dears, the ceremony begins."