Dangerously Perfect Match || Ivar X Reader Smut

♥ Dangerously Perfect Match ♥ || Ivar x reader smut

Part II | Part III | Part IV

Summary: You’re the Earl of little settlement deep inside the forests of Norway. After Ragnar Lothbrok’s death you and your warriors travel to England to support Ragnar’s sons in the battle against Christians. Shortly after a victory, you and Ivar turned out to be a dangerously perfect match.

Warnings: explicit content - smut

Words: 8005

Authors: Cass & Rouge

Sailing for many days always made you sick, not because you suffered sea sickness. It was simply boring when you were lucky enough to sail without any storms.

Improving your mask, you turned to the people that came with you. "Come on, people! Move! Ragnarsson isn't expecting us but let's not make him wait any longer!," You yelled.

Soon everyone was moving to the city.

Just as you expected there were people, securing the walls. When all the bows were turned toward your people, you raised your arms. "No need to shoot at us! We aren't a danger! I am an Earl and I brought food, medicines and people! Would any of you be so nice and inform your leader about our visit?"

The huge chamber was cold, with only one person sitting on the chair at the table. It was no one else but Ivar the Boneless, drinking the last chalice of wine his people found stored in one of the buildings.

"My lord, some Earl came with troops and supplies," informed a huge viking who entered the chamber with a bowed head.

Ivar lazily moved his attention from his last piece of chicken to the man. "Is that so? I don't care about that."

"But, my lord, you might find a use for her people and things she brought due to..."

"She?," Ivar's lips curled into a smirk. "Is the Earl a woman?"

"Indeed, my lord." Ivar caught the chicken meat with his perfectly shaped teeth and ripped a piece. After chewing he wiped his mouth with the top of his hand. "Let them in."

You smiled, seeing the gates being open. It was a good sign. "Be good boys,” you reminded your men before entering.

One of the warriors was kind enough to escort you and your men to Ivar.

"May the Odin bless us all!," You greeted loudly walking into the big chamber. It wasn't a pleasant view and it made you happy that you actually brought all of the stuff.

There was silence for a longer while before someone spoke loudly but in a rather softish voice. "Look at that! Gods sent us a woman!"

You chuckled looking around, trying to find the owner of the voice. "They did indeed and that woman brings you things you and your men need the most!"

With a loud noise of metal, a figure crawled out of darkness. Ivar stopped in the last rays of sun which filled the room through huge windows. "The Earl. The woman. The surprise!," He chuckled to himself. "Who are you?"

"Earl Wolf or just Y/N. Whatever sounds better to you, Ivar the Boneless," you introduced yourself bowing your head a little. "Word travels fast, even faster when it's bad. I heard about your father, revenge and now this all. Since I was bored I decided to join you."

Ivar pretended to pout a little. "Yes, after mourning my father, may Odin share his feast with him, I and my brothers sought a revenge and we clearly marked our presence in Christians' hearts all around England," he offered you a smile. "Please, come and sit. Bring the wine and food for the lady!"

You weren't really hungry but still accepted the offer out of simple politeness. "We feasted for three days in honor of your dear father. I hope the two Christian bastards who called themselves kings suffered for his death." Sitting down you smoothed your leather pants. "I hope my people will be a great use to you. I picked only the strongest and the most skilled ones. They will follow you as long as you please.”

Ivar crawled to the table and used all of his strengths to get onto the chair he was previously sitting on. As he did, he offered you a smirk. "Oh, you can be sure, dear Earl, that they were slaughtered in the most cruel ways." Ivar rose his chalice and sipped. "Every man is at a premium."

"And let's hope they will rote just as they deserved to," you agreed and raised your own chalice to him.

In order to drink you raised your mask high enough to reach your lips. After emptying the chalice, you set it down. "I need to be honest. I expected to see all the famous sons of Ragnar. Maybe not all of them are as brave as the youngest one."

"I'm sorry to break it up to you, dear Earl, but my skittish brother

Ubbe decided to get back to Kattegat after being defeated by Ecbert's son, the new king. Bjørn drifted to new lands. Sigurd... Sigurd died and the only one who stayed by me is Hvitserk, yet he's struggling," Ivar leaned forward, almost laying his chest on the top of the table. "He's questioning his decision of staying but soon he'll feel better, as I presume."

"I am so sorry about your brothers, both Sigurd and Hvitserk," you said softly before filling the chalices. "In that case, let's drink for Sigurd."

You talked and drank with Ivar for a long time.

The realization hit you when the room went dark, being lightened up only by candles. "Would you look at that? Time goes fast when you have wine."

"Indeed. Only the candles left. Might illuminate what kind of a woman I'm dealing with though," he claimed and leaned his back against the chair. "Tell me, who you really are."

"The day's light already did it for you, Boneless. I am Y/N and I am the Earl in my own little settlement. I was bored with life there, I craved to fight. Where else will I find it if not on Ragnarson's side," You shrugged and crossed arms over your chest as you relaxed in your seat. "And coming to you with nothing to offer you would be pointless and a waste of time.”

"So why do you wear a mask?," He asked in curiosity. "I want to see your face, woman. I like to see a person I'm speaking to.'

"Why are you crawling around like a worm? I don't request to see your legs," you said with a chuckle in your voice and gently poked his leg. "You have your thing and I have mine," explaining that you tapped your mask.

"I want to see your face," he demanded still. "If we are about to make any plans together, I need to see your face."

"You are a stubborn one as I see. Fine then, everyone saw it already anyway," you shrugged and removed the mask. The left side of your face was slightly deformed and covered with old, nasty scars. "Father wasn't too happy his first born was a girl. So I became a wolf dinner. Sadly for him I survived. Happy now?"

Ivar's eyes got wider as he reached hand out and trailed the scars with his fingertips. "Believe it or not but my lovely father left me at the river so I die either of hunger or killed by animals so I relate," Ivar chuckled darkly. "We have so much in common, Y/N!"

You winced at his touch and slightly nodded. "You were lucky enough that your mother cared. Mine did not... but I killed that bastard. That's why I am here," saying this you looked at the wooden mask in your hand. "It does things. People feel uneasy while talking or fighting with faceless people."

Ivar took his hand off your face, shaking it in the air as if your skin burnt his fingers. "True. I relate as well to this point." He slowly got off the chair and crawled into the darkness. "Come."

You smiled at the gesture and shook your head. After attaching the mask to your belt you got up from your seat and followed him, not even sure if it was a good idea.

Ivar was tipsy and tired so his crawling wasn't the fastest. He took his time to reach the stone stairs leading up to the tower. "Upstairs. You can stay there. Don't worry, I won't molest you, you know, too many stairs in between," he joked. "Rest. Tomorrow we have a lot of tasks to perform."

"I will gladly rest, last week was hard. I hate to sleep in the ship," you explained and looked at him with a smile. "I don't worry about you visiting my bed. It would be nice but probably the last time you would do that. Do you need help with getting into your bed?"

Ivar laughed loudly, shaking his bed. "Oh, you'll soon regret not inviting me to your bed, woman. You don't know what you're missing though," he mocked a little. "I'm fine. I'll just crawl away now. Just as my dead brother used to say, my bed is where the floor is, so...," He gestured around. "I'll find myself a nice, cozy spot. Good night, Earl Wolf."

"I hope the other things he said were nicer and smarter than this one. Good night Ivar the Boneless, we'll see each other tomorrow," you nodded and started to climb the stairs.

Ivar smirked to himself and crawled away, right to his cot located in another chamber. After climbing to the bed, he slipped hands under head and stared into the ceiling.

You looked at the old wooden bed, it wasn't so bad.

Flopping down on it you sighed, it was nice to lie on something more comfortable than just the wood of your ship.

When you got downstairs in the dawn, Ivar was already up, sitting in the spot he sat yesterday. "Morning, Earl," he bowed his head and flicked his hand up in the air.

You chuckled at his gesture. It was nice even if it felt as if he was mocking you in some way. Still, you didn't mind it, to be honest you preferred it over being treated as someone weaker than him. "Good morning to you as well, Ivar. How was your night? And please, Y/N is enough."

Sitting down in the same seat as the day before you stretched your body. Surprisingly the mask wasn't on, just like last night it was attached to your belt.

Some of the men looked at you with a frown, it was a shame that a pretty woman was so disfigured.

You gave Ivar a soft smile. "So, are we expecting any attack today? I am more than sure that people from other camps saw me joining you."

"Night was sleepless and cold, just like always," he told you, playing with his empty chalice. "They'll attack. Am not sure if today but we need to get prepared. And I have a plan, a great plan of catching him in a perfectly shaped trap. And you'll help me in making it come true, Y/N. You and your people."

Ivar grimaced as soon as he spotted Hvitserk entering the chamber.

"Who's that?," His older brother asked, stopping with hands rested on his hips.

"This is Earl Wolf and she came on purpose," Ivar replied shortly. "Have I ever told you that you look like a mother when you take this particular position?"

You smiled, filling Ivar's chalice and then filled two others. "My name is Y/N, just your brother keeps on using my title. It's nice to meet another son of Ragnar."

Taking the sip of the wine you turned to the other man, not even caring that he looked a bit shocked by your face.

"Nasty, huh?," You gave Hvitserk a smile and turned back to Ivar. "As I said, me and my men are yours. Whatever your plan is, we'll help."

Ivar offered you a smug smirk as you used these words in particular order. "Believe me or not, Y/N, I know you're mine. You turned mine once you crossed the gate to York."

Hvitserk cringed at his younger brother's attitude. He walked closer and sat at the chair on the opposite side of the table. "Where are you from? Who did tell you that we need alliances?"

You giggled at Ivar's comment and nodded. "In that case... Maybe I will stay even longer than needed.” Taking a big sip from the chalice you shrugged. "My settlement is far away. As I told your brother, word travels fast. Bad word travels even faster. I just thought that it would be nice to offer my help. No matter if it's needed or not. Showing up empty handed would be rude."

Hvitserk's brows narrowed; he didn't trust you in a slightest.

"Is there anything bothering you, brother?," Ivar asked, pretending to be truly concerned.

"No."

"Good."

"You don't trust me, don't you?," You asked Hvitserk simply.

Older Ragnarsson remained silent, he only sipped water from his chalice.

Ivar clapped his hands out of sudden. "I'm going on the ramparts. Just in case you'd want to see me later."

"I can go with you if you wish. I don't want to stay here too long if I am not trusted by your brother," you said, moving your gaze from older brother to younger one. "I don't wish to make someone feel uncomfortable around my person."

"I'm not feeling uncomfortable," Hvitserk responded in the end. "I'm tired, hungry, sad, angry, lonely."

"He meant he is depressed," Ivar corrected his brother and reached to pick his crutches to get up.

You pointed at one of the crates your man brought in today.

"Help yourself, I think there is some sweets there or some food for sure."

Getting up you put on the wooden mask. "I will go with you, Ivar. I want to hear about your plan,"

Ivar nodded at you. "Follow me."

Several minutes passed before he reached the place he wanted. The day was rainy and windy, and such weather wasn't truly helpful with Ivar's state.

Truth was he felt a huge pain in his legs on such a day but taking he was a fearless warrior, he never showed it. Keeping face straight Ivar climbed up the stairs and sat on the stones at the top of ramparts.

You followed him slowly, looking around. It would be a pretty nice place to stay here, without the enemy camp it would be perfect. Your eyes scanned the area as your mind started to create any kind of plan that might come useful one day. "So... Will you be kind enough to share your plan with a woman?”

Ivar gestured for you to sit. "They'll come here eventually, sooner or later, and we need to be prepared," he started mysteriously. "I thought of hiding my troops beneath the city. And wait for prey to get inside."

Sitting down next to him you remain silent, thinking about the whole idea. After a moment you nodded, smiling under the mask. "They will come in, think we are gone..."

"... And we'll make them grunt like roasted pigs," a smug smile appeared on Ivar's lips.

You chuckled, nodding. "You didn't tell me exactly what we will do but I understand. This is a great idea, they will be sure they won and we will jump out from Underground."

"Exactly this," Ivar nodded. "We'll fuck them all and I already can't wait to hear them grunt in pain and agony."

"I need to sharpen my sword then," you said and laughed loudly, rubbing your palms together. "Oh this will be a delightful blood bath."

"I know it'll," Ivar smiled widely, some sparkles of desire glistened in his huge, blue eyes.

The battle was a great victory of vikings.

You watched Christians all run away in panic as they tried to protect their king and you laughed loudly.

"Oh no my king we need to run!,” you yelled in a mocking tone, picking up the obviously too heavy hammer to take care of the yet not really dead soldiers. You were covered in blood and your mask was cracked in the middle. After smashing a few heads with the heavy weapon you decided to join Ivar. "THAT WAS ONE FINE BATTLE!"

Ivar was sitting on the stone stairs, chuckling to himself, a madness in his eyes. "Indeed, dear Y/N. Gods favoured us today!"

"Just as we deserved it, Ivar," You said proudly and giggled, sitting next to him. Closing your eyes you sighed, relaxing on the stairs. After a moment of silence you again opened your eyes and then realized he captured the one fighting priest or whatever he was.

"So we take hostages now?"

"No. I took a hostage. One, to be particular. I like him. He fought like a lion. Much appreciation," Ivar chuckled.

You got up and walked to the man, humming as you moved your hand through his disheveled, dirty hair, letting out a giggle as you see him not enjoying your touch.

"I saw. Such a shame he wasted his talent to fight for those cross loving idiots. Imagine him fighting for us, he would be the greatest warrior out of all of us. Of course, right after you, Ivar," you said, taking the man's chin between your fingers to take a look at him closer.

"I wouldn't trust any Christian. My father did."

"Handsome, strong, skilled... He would be a fine lover," You said with a teasingly tone. "Such a shame, really. If you wouldn't trust him, why would you keep him. Let's put him on cross! Like their silly god."

"No, no, I have a premonition. That he'll be a very important figure in our fight against Christians. We better keep him, I'm taking him back to Kattegat. Y/N?"

"You are a more lucky man than, Christian," you patted the man's cheek and got up to your feet, smoothing your blood stained clothes. "Yes, Ivar? I finally deserved to be called by my name, not the title?"

"I'd be a nice lover. Nicer than he could," Ivar pointed out and shifted hand to rest it on his crotch. "Being disabled doesn't mean you can't have nice fucking."

"May God have mercy on your souls," the bishop painted.

You were glad he couldn't see the smug smile under your mask, oh he was so full of himself. Your attention moved back to the bishop, you kneeled next to the captured man. "Oh, look! He talks!"

"Devils! You're barbarians, pagans! You'll hang on the cross!"

"Look at that aggression. Oh, you need to be so angry we keep you here, love," you mocked the man. "Such a great warrior captured and helped by his enemy."

"Shut your filthy mouth, you pagan whore!"

"He will be fun to have around," you chuckled and removed the mask to place a kiss on the bishop's temple before patting his chest. "Be a good boy." Getting up you placed the mask back on your face. "I go find some water. I heard rumors blood makes skin softer but Christian blood makes me sick."

Ivar laughed darkly and at the same moment Hvitserk joined the two of you. He was completely covered in blood, from the bottom to the very top.

You laughed softly.

"Look at you Hvitserk! Not so sad anymore as I can see."

Hvitserk started laughing. He made an impression of a completely deluded man.

"Take care of my boy," you teased, looking at the bishop before walking away.

Hvitserk flopped on the ground and sniffed his plans stained in blood; it was still warm. "Wonderful plan."

Of course there was a feast, such a victor was worth celebrating.

You changed into some clean clothes that thank the gods you took with you. The mask was cracked so you decided to break it in half and put on the one half that covered the most hated part of your face. You walked downstairs and smiled seeing everyone. "LET'S CELEBRATE OUR VICTORY OVER THAT CROWN WEARING CHRISTIAN!"

Bishop was chained to a stone column in the middle of the chamber.

Vikings were cheering, drinking, and celebrating the victory over Christians army.

When Ivar entered, everyone went instantly quiet.

You were already bothering the Bishop again. "Look at you. Much nicer than the first time I saw you, love." When everyone went silent you looked over your shoulder and saw Ivar. "I will be back with you, later." Casually walking up to Hvitserk you rested your elbow on his shoulder. "How are you doing, Hvitserk? Any better after the great battle?"

"All I want to do now is get drunk as fuck. I want to drink that war, if you know what I mean!"

Ivar took a seat at the table.

You laughed and wrapped your arm around his shoulders.

"Oh! With your brother you will for sure, friend. We all will."

As Ivar was comfortable in his seat, he rose his chalice up. "On this historic occasion, I would like to propose a toast. A toast to vikings for we're fearless warriors that vanquished Christians in their homeland," he was saying, smirk playing in the corners of his lips. "Rise your chalices, brothers! Raise them for today is the day the entire world will learn about our power!"

You suddenly climbed on one of the tables and raised your chalice up.

"To all of this and Ivar the Boneless, Son of Ragnar, the fearless warrior who will show the world what we can do. Today was only the beginning of his glory as a leader!"

Many men roared loudly, agreeing with your words.

You look at Ivar and give a smile before taking a sip from your chalice.

Ivar gestured at you, bowing his head. "Thank you but this all wouldn't happen without Earl Wolf and my brother, Hvitersk who killed many with his ax today! Skål!"

You bowed your head and then hopped off of the table.

"If you want. Some of my shield maidens have their eye on, Hvitserk. Help yourself." After this you went to join Ivar.

Hvitserk instantly twitched. "Shield maidens? I haven't seen any among us," he claimed while looking around.

You rolled your eyes and whistled loudly. Few girls indeed looked in your direction. "You need to look around yourself more. Go, have fun," you patted his shoulder and then walked to Ivar.

Sitting down in a seat you previously took while talking to him you gave him a nod. "I hope other battles will be just as glorious as this one was."

Hvitserk's eyes glistened with lust as he drifted away to the group of girls.

Ivar was keeping his legs on the table. "Of course they will."

"If you wish, I will gladly follow you with my man but if you don't want us here. We will leave as soon as possible," you said taking a sip of your wine.

"As for now we are getting back to Kattegat, as I told you before," he replied. "I'll leave some men to guard York while the rest is gone."

"So some of mine will stay here as well but do you want me to travel to Kattegat with you?" You questioned, placing your legs on the table.

Ivar wrapped his arm around your shoulders. "Of course I do. Have you ever been there?"

You shook your head, placing your palm on his hand that rested on your shoulder. "No, never but it will be a pleasure to visit Ragnar's settlement. I heard a lot about it."

He chuckled softly. "You'll fall in love with Kattegat," Ivar assured. "It's the most beautiful settlement along the coast."

"This is exactly what I heard but now I am even more excited to see it," You hummed, playing with your chalice. "Wonder if the bishop will survive the trip."

Ivar showed his teeth in a wide grin. "My men will take good care of our noble hostage. Don't worry, he will be useful for you."

You let out a quiet moan just to tease him. Were you crossing a line? Definitely yes. Did you care? Not at all.

"That sounds nice indeed. Can I ask you a question?"

"Strike."

"When I said that this man could be a good lover, you jumped out with your proposition. Were you jealous that I prefer him and not our fearless leader?," Your hand slowly moved down his chest.

"Me? Jealous? Never. I can have you whenever I want," he replied playfully. "But being fucked by a Christian is not a nice thing. I was just worried about you."

"Ivar the Boneless was worried about me? Woman he doesn't even know that well? That's cute," you giggled. "It's not? And why is that? You already had sex with one?"

He downed his wine and hit the chalice against the counter. "Of course I had sex, just look at me," he smiled wryly.

"I am looking and I don't believe you had sex with Christian, oh and I still don't know why it's not a nice thing," you chuckled.

"They're disgusting. That's all. And, to make myself clear, it wasn't something the other side wanted. But you know, I'm a man and I have my needs."

"Oh yes, yes. You sure do, love," you giggled quietly and downed your wine. "I will remember your words while fucking that man."

Ivar was grinning widely when he shook his head. "Honey, you're not going to sink your pussy down on his cock."

"Oh, won't I? And why is that?," You asked with an innocent smile. "Will you stop me?"

"Of course I'll. I'm not going to let you touch this dirty dog," he licked his lips. "If you'll try, I'll cut your hand off."

"Only if you will be fast enough with your crawling so you can do so," you scoffed.

Ivar smiled. "You haven't seen me in action yet. For now I need an excuse for I'm tired and need to catch at least a few hours of sleep," he smirked at you and took his legs off the table.

"If you say so, love. I hope you'll rest, we don't want our leader to be too tired to fight."

He rested his weight on crutches while leaning towards you. "And I want you to join me in my alcove." Ivar's hand simply placed at the back of your neck as he pulled you closer to brush his lips against yours.

You wanted to tease him more but honestly there was no reason to. "I will gladly join you, Ivar," you whispered against his lips before pressing a gentle kiss against them.

His body twitched a little. He wasn't expecting you to kiss him.

You giggled moving your hand up and down his chest. "Oh. you like it, don't you? You can kiss me, I don't bite."

He shifted his head and looked down at you. "I know I can but I'm rather private with showing affection."

You nodded and rubbed his shoulder, enjoying the feeling of the leather under your palm. "Fine," getting up for the seat you smiled. "Lead me to your alcove so we can have some more privacy."

Ivar tilted his head and smirked at you. Slowly, he walked out of the chamber, being cheered up by his warriors.

Ivar's alcove was nothing more than a tiny room on the other side of the building. The room contained a small bed, neatly made and two straight-backed chairs.

You smiled looking at the bed.

At least the real bed was there, to be honest you were scared that there may be none. "I was worried you would really sleep on the floor."

Ivar laughed shortly, putting one hand to his tummy. "It was only a joke though sometimes I slept on the floor before. I heard it's good for one's back."

You nodded, slowly moving closer to him. "I heard that too. I would never let you sleep on the floor. Never."

Your voice was only a whisper as your hand traveled up from his belt until it reached his check.

Ivar wasn't sure what was happening to him. He felt his heart rate increased yet his blood turned into cold fluid which filled his veins. He reached out, placing it on your mask. Slowly, like he was afraid of you smacking his hand back, took it off.

You let him do that.

He already saw it all, there was no point in hiding it but still you weren't sure. "Maybe you should leave it on? I may be beautiful but this is hideous."

"I love the way you are...," He whispered, his fingertips tracing your scar.

"Thank you..." You whispered back with a soft smile.

It was a relief, men who dared to take you to bed always requested the thing on or lost the interest as soon as they noticed the scars.

"Come... I am sure you need to sit down," you lead him to bed.

He walked slowly and soon put crutches away. Ivar sunk on the bed, looking up at you, he was in awe.

You gave him a smile and straddled his legs, making sure to not put too much of your weight on them. "Who would think you are so gentle in bed? This is such a big and sweet surprise," wrapping arms around his neck you kissed him deeply.

He didn't wrap his arms around you. For a few moments he was completely paralyzed yet he enjoyed your body so close to his. He gave the very messy kiss back and panted when you broke it.

His behaviour was odd. It couldn't be caused by your face, he wouldn't lie to you, right? You smiled and cupped his cheek. "I think I know what's wrong. Let me guess, it's your first time, huh?"

He instantly turned head aside and cleared his throat. "The air is dry. Could you bring me water? Please?"

"Of course I can," you nodded and kissed his cheek. Soon you were off of him and went to fulfill his request. It didn't take you long to return with a cup full of water. "Just as you asked."

He took glass from you and downed it at once. "Come to me."

You watched him drink and then followed that order as well.

When you straddled him again, his arm wrapped around your waist as he pulled you closer and crushed his lips on yours. You let out a quiet moan and wrapped your hands around his neck. They gently caressed his skin and soon moved into his nicely braided hair.

"Do you like my hair?," He asked softly, brushing his cheek against yours and he nibbled on your earlobe.

You played with them as much as you only could and nodded. "I do. They are soft and nicely braided. I think they look perfect on you."

"You know what also looks perfect on me? You."

You blinked and pulled away to look at him with your eyebrow raised. This was silly... Silly in a sweet kind of way. It was really nice actually. "This was really sweet of you but... You know me two days Ivar. How can you be so sure?"

"I might not be for long in this world but I haven't witnessed such a beautiful woman ever in my lifetime. Maybe I didn't see much but you're a goddess and mighty warrior."

You listened to him and you could feel your cheeks get hotter. You have never heard such words from anyone and you surely did not expect to hear them from a man like Ivar. Just a few hours ago you watched him fight, bathed in blood of his enemies and now? He was holding you close while telling you all of this. You hoped he was telling the truth. "I have met many men. They all wanted me to be theirs but they lied or pretended. I hope that everything you just said is true."

Ivar slowly laid down, he still held you on his lap. His hands stroked your sides carefully, resting finally on your hips.

In the room there was semi darkness yet Ivar's eyes were glistening.

You started to slowly roll your hips against him, moving your upper body down to kiss him. Your hips pressed to him from time to time.

His desperate hands tried to find any zip nor button that could be undone in spite of everything.

With a smile you sat up and started to slowly remove your clothes. First thing you took off were your gloves, then the leather vest. Your tunica quickly followed so you sat there with your chest naked. You unbutton your pants and looked at him, biting your lips.

Ivar gasped quietly seeing your naked form. "You're a real goddess...," He whispered as his hands grabbed your hips again, grazing the soft flesh under his fingertips.

"You flatter me love," you whispered and despite his little whine you slipped off of him. Your boots hit the floor and the pants followed.

Soon, you stood there naked. "I love what you are wearing, Ivar but I can't be the only one dressed,” you teased and climbed back on the bed.

Ivar watched you with wide opened eyes yet he undid his armor and took it off. The only thing that stayed in was his pants. Unwillingly he pushed his legs off the bed and bit his lips. "Don't be surprised. My legs are the most vulnerable part of me," he informed as he struggled with his belt.

You pushed his hands away and helped him with the belt, opening it easily. "If you don't want me to see them. We don't need to take your pants off completely. I understand."

"I appreciate that...," He hesitated a little. He hated the fact you had full control over him. He hated the fact that his legs were his weak points. He hated the fact he wasn't like a normal man.

You helped him to sit back on bed, resting his back against the head of the bed. "Now. Just relax and enjoy." After these words you kissed him and then moved to his neck. As you kissed his neck and shoulder, your hand moved down his stomach, teasing the hard muscles with your fingertips.

Ivar's body was tense. Every muscle of his was tensed up, twitching under your touch. His hand rested on your hip where he squeezed you a little.

"Sweetheart. Relax, please. I am not going to hurt you."

Your affection moved even lower, you kissed every inch of his skin and every little scar decorating his lower body.

His grasp on your hip tightened; you could be sure he left bruises where he was holding you. Ivar moved a little so he could kiss your lips; the kiss was messy.

You smiled against his lips and gladly kissed him back, rolling your hips against him, being careful to not put too much of your weight on him.

He hummed. "Let's don't wait any longer," he almost begged.

You nodded and moved your hand to the rim of his pants, slipping them down without breaking the eye contact with Ivar.

His breath hitched and he instantly pulled you into another messy kiss, pushing his tongue past your lips.

Letting out a moan you returned the kiss.

Since you knew he loved to dominate, you didn't even try to fight against his tongue. Your palm wrapped around his member.

Before he could think, a loud moan escaped his parted lips. He blushed hard and thanked Odin there was no light in the room so you didn't notice.

The sound was beautiful, you could get used to it. "Oh, sweetheart. I can't wait to have that hard cock of yours deep in me," you whispered into his ear and didn't waste more time, simply sinking down on his member.

He shifted in place and sucked breath in, without exhaling for a longer moment. His hands instantly grabbed your hips and Ivar let out a grunt of satisfaction. "Feels good, goddamn good."

You started to ride him slowly, grabbing his shoulders. He was so big that you were surprised you could even take him in. The feeling in your stomach was painful yet pleasant. "Fuck... I know love. It feels so good!”

One of his hands slipped between your thighs to the spot you both were connected and rubbed your folds gently while the other caught one of your boobs.

You moaned loudly at his touch, picking up your pace. "Yes, touch me sweetheart. It all feels so good."

Ivar couldn't stay quiet as your actions were intense. He rolled head back and rested it on the pillow while taking a hold of your waist, gently stroking the curve of your body, his grasp on your body strong enough to leave some bruises.

You took his left hand and kissed each of the fingers before moving the hand down your belly until it against your clit once again. "Play with it, sweetheart. It's almost magical," you begged.

Ivar licked his lips but complied with your ask. When he felt your slickness on his fingers, he gently rubbed a few little circles around your clitoris. He let out another loud moan. "You're wet."

You couldn't help but let out a short laugh soon followed by another moan. "I know, sweetheart and that's good, because…," taking his hand you pressed it to your abdomen, so he could feel his member move inside of you, "Can you feel it? It would not be that nice if I were dry as an old well."

Ivar was in awe; he had never been so close with a woman. The feeling of the little bulge within your lower abdomen once his cock was buried deep made him proud. Oh, Hvitserk's ears will faint when he'll be telling the story of having you in his bed! "This feels so fucking good, I love how wet and tight you are."

"I know. It feels so good, your cock feels me so well, stretch me cunt so good," you moaned. "And it makes me closer to my climax... Fuck. I can't hold it any longer. Can I cum, Ivar?" You begged, gently scratching his chest.

"Harder," he ordered in a husky voice. "Cum for me, little one, make me proud!," And he smacked your butt.

You rode him as hard as your body let you to. Soon your walls tightened around his member and you whimpered cumming hard around him.

Ivar pulled you to his chest so he could kiss you deeply. He moaned into the kiss as he tried to buck his hips into you, gaining some needed friction before milking your pussy with his cum.

You gasped and nuzzled to his neck. After the short moment of silence you giggled. "You know, you indeed make a good lover," you hummed. When your breath calmed down you slowly moved off him to lie down on bed. His load was dripping out of you, slowly streaming down your thighs. "Well... King Ivar will indeed need an heir one day."

Ivar offered you his arm and smiled to himself once you took it. When your head was placed on his chest, he tried his best to cool his breath down. "Thank you," he said out of sudden. "You took me right to Asgard."

You nuzzled to his shoulder and nodded. "You are welcome, sweetheart. I hope you won't just set me aside now."

"You're fierce like a real predator. You get my sense of humour and your beauty is an addition. Why would I set you aside?"

"Well... You got supplies, warriors, victory and my cunt. You have everything you need now. Maybe that's why," you shrugged.

"Indeed." Ivar's fingers crossed the bare skin of your shoulder as he was looking into the darkness of the little room. "Did I make you feel good? Truly? Have I satisfied you?"

You moved closer and cupped his cheek to kiss him. "It felt wonderful, truly. You have satisfied me like no one before. If I can be honest... I want more."

He turned head to you and stole one more kiss from your lips.

His forehead rested against yours and he was so close his hot breath hit your shoulder. "I'll make you the most powerful woman in the world."

"We will be the most powerful couple in the world," you corrected him.

It was an unusual view for sure.

You always made sure to look good, dangerous, just as earl should but there you were. Leaving Ivar's chamber in his tunic with unsteady gait

Apparently since Ivar found out that his important part worked despite his legs, he didn't let you sleep much that night, filling the whole place with your screams and whimpers. Of course you didn't complain, you wanted it.

You went to the main room to hopefully grab pitchers full of water and wine.

To your own luck you had to meet Ivar's brother. Picking up the pitchers you have him a smile. "So... How the girls did, huh?"

"They were good," Hvitserk replied, playing with the chalice in his hands. "They almost killed me as I couldn't breathe. But, as I heard, you also had fun. Who was the lucky guy? Was it a noble hostage?"

You shook your head pointing your finger at the hostage who was sleeping in his place. "No, it wasn't him and I am happy, indeed. Girls needed some fun, too," you shrugged, taking the sip of a wine.

Hvitserk got up as he had to refill his chalice. Only then he looked at you and in the blink of an eye realized you wore Ivar's shirt which hung on your fragile body. "This belongs to my brother."

You giggled and nodded with a little shrug "He ripped mine to tie me up to bed... I couldn't leave the bedroom and come here naked."

"Wait. I beg your pardon?," Hvitserk got closer to you and grabbed you by your forearm. "Did you two fuck?"

"Yes, we did. If you need to know, a lot actually and please, don't grab me like this. I have enough bruises after your brother," you warned with a frown.

"Bullshit. You're bullshitting me. You try to tell me that Ivar the Boneless can make his little, tiny dick hard enough to fuck a girl? How's that when he couldn't do this back before England? He's disabled. And you're deluded.'

You swang on your already wobbly legs and shrugged hugging the pitchers. "Well... I wouldn't say his dick is tiny or the opposite actually. His legs don't work that's true, but everything else is just fine and hard."

Hvitserk chuckled darkly at your words. "So, if my brother had you, maybe you would like one more son of Ragnar into your cunt?," He simply slipped hand between your thighs.

Meantime, Ivar opened his eyes as the sun rays grazed his cheek. He yawned a little and tried to roll to his side to kiss you yet he realized you were gone. He narrowed brows and sat on the bed with a loud grunt.

Downstairs, you give Hvitserk a polite smile and purred, moving closer to him. "Another one you say... With pleasure, love." Moving even closer you placed your palm on the back of his head, only to smash your forehead against his nose with a full force. You pulled away letting him fall to the ground.

"If your filthy hands touch me ever again, I will cut them off.

Hvitserk grunted and gasped of surprise and pain you caused. "You fucking broke my nose! You fucking witch!"

"Good. Next time you may have something else broken, by Ivar himself. So better keep your hands away if you want to hold any weapon in the future," you warned him, then you picked up water and wine. "Have a good day, Hvitserk. One of the girls will probably take care of your nose."

After that you simply returned to Ivar.

Ivar was almost fully dressed, with shaking hands he was trying to button his shirt but due to nerves he was unable to. Where's she, he was thinking to himself.

You opened the door and stopped to look at him. "Ivar, love, you are up.” Humming happily you walked closer to the bed. "You could wait at me."

He blinked as soon as you stepped in. His blue eyes slipped by your figure, from the top to the bottom and he registered you had been wearing his shirt. "I thought you left."

You gave him a soft smile and kissed the top of his head. "Why would I, huh?" Your fingers easily helped him with the buttons of his shirt.

He was looking at you like you were a goddess. "Most of them do that to me, so I thought you did, too."

You shook your head, playing with his hair. "I am not most of them. I just went to get us something to drink. I was sure you'll need this. We need to braid your hair, I fucked them up.” you added with a frown.

He was looking up at you without blinking. "Why are you like this? You're kind. No one was ever kind to me except my mother."

"I don't have reason to hurt you or be unkind to you, Ivar," you said, untying the little braids. "I respect people who deserved this. You're like me and I think that because Gods brought me to you." Your hand moves through his hair.

He didn't realize he was purring until you let out a soft chuckle. Only then he opened his eyes and smiled. "I like when you are playing with my hair, your hands are so gentle."

You looked into those beautiful blue eyes and your hand moved back into his hair, scratching his scalp gently. "Thank you, love. I like when you hold me, I feel safe and happy."

He parted lips and gasped, the pleasure of your touch was almost unbearable.

You moved to your knees and kissed him, keeping your hand in his hair.

Ivar almost melted. He wasn't sure what you were doing to him but he felt secure and safe by your side. These feelings were brand new to him for he was a ruthless warrior.

You pulled away and smiled, moving back to your feet. Your little palm moved through his hair one last time before you started to braid them into his usual style.

"Oh... I broke Hvitserk's nose when I was downstairs."

"Good," he almost moaned but shortly after the realization hit him. "Wait, what did you do?"

"I broke his nose. He thought that if you had me, he can too. He painfully found out that no," you explained not stopping your work.

Ivar turned his head towards you, his steel blue eyes glistening with madness. "I'll rip his little dick off."

You shook your head and scratched the back of his head. "No need to, love. I took care of this. He won't try anything again."

"I can't trust anyone," he replied and as soon as you finished braiding his hair, he asked you to help him get up from the bed.

"You can trust me, right? And I tell you he will be careful around me," you assured, helping him get up.

When he was up you smiled and gently touched his chest. "Now I need to dress up! Since you ripped my shirt apart to tie me, this one is mine now, forever," you informed him openly.

He winked at you and grinned widely, tilting his head a little as his hand traveled to your cheek. "Earl Y/N, wearing my shirt and scent on herself. Look at that. Gods blessed me today."

"You should be glad. You marked me with your scent and not only. Just like a wolf marks his mate," you growled playfully, nuzzling to his hand.

He smiled at your words. You were more than right. You were his and only his. "Now, let's pack everything. It's time to get back to Kattegat and get our kingdom back."

Bringing the Christmas Spirit Back || Heartman x Reader

Summary: When the Christmas spirit is long gone for humanity, Heartman tries to restore it.

Warnings: none    

Words: 2711

Authors: Cass & Bear

Yawning loudly you walked out to the main room of Heartman's lab.

You didn't expect anything to be different because why would it be?

To your own surprise there was a big christmas tree in the middle of the room, it was made of plastic. "Uhm... What is that?," You asked, walking closer to inspect the colorful baubles and other decorations.

 “Well, now that you're awake, I have to tell you that we ran out of earl gray,” Heartman stepped into the room, almost jumping off four little stairs. “Hi, gorgeous,” he placed a brief kiss on your cheek and stood right next to the christma tree. “I’ve printed it with a 3D printer, what do you think?,” He asked, being obviously proud of himself. “I thought that we could have restored some of the old traditions. That we could have brought some of the Christmas spirit, to gain some kind of mood improvement.”

 "I forgot you don't sleep with me in bed. You have a lot of time to do these things," you said with a smile and rubbed your eyes, trying your best to wipe the sleep off them. "It's a good idea but I don't think it will ever be the same, and about the tea, I will check later what else we need, and then I will do a bigger order."

 “Sam won’t be happy,” Heartman let out a proper laugh. “It’s going to be our… Fourteenth order over the past two weeks,” He took his glasses off to wipe them using a kerchief he held in his back pocket.

 "The fifteenth order, sweetie. I checked the records last evening before the bed. I have no idea what you ordered behind my back but I know you did," you sighed, tapping his shoulder. "Let's hope they will send some other poor soul and not our Sam."

 “Well, actually, I wouldn’t mind them sending Sam, I have a few questions for him,” Heartman put his glasses back on. “Now, you look much better than the second before when your figure was blurry,” he sent you a grin and in the same moment his AED beeped a few times. “Ah, shit. We’ll continue our deep conversation in 3 minutes, okay? Meantime, be a good girl and make me a strong coffee, and don’t forget I like it bitter.”

 You giggled and nodded. "Okay, I will also make some breakfast while in the kitchen."

After kissing his cheek you went to the bedroom to quickly grab your glasses before heading to the kitchen. Then you started preparing the hot drinks.

 After exactly 3 minutes, Heartman’s AED brought him back to life with a strong, electric impulse. It took him a few seconds to gain his thoughts. “I hate this,” he muttered to himself and before he got up from the cot, he had written some things in his online journal, using his fingers to do so.

 At that point you were putting plates with breakfast onto the table. Toasts for both of you, coffee for him, and green tea for you.

Letting out a quiet sigh, you started looking through all the cabinets and shelves. "I think I have everything," you muttered to yourself.

 Heartman walked into the little dining room shortly after, he instantly took his seat. “Thanks,” he sent you a smile and started eating. “What are you looking for? Tell me, and I’ll tell you where you’ll be able to find it.”

 "No, no. It's okay, I already know what I need," you informed him and quickly took your seat right in front of him. "You really want to bring back a bit of the Christmas spirit to these dark days, huh?"

 "Yes, whenever possible," he replied and took a bite of his toast. He chewed and sipped on his coffee. "Yeah, that's what I needed."

 "Glad you liked it," you smiled at him, taking a sip of your tea.

After break Heartman returned to his work. Meantime, you checked and listed all the stuff you needed before placing an order with a little message for Sam.

After making sure your beloved man was busy with work, you quickly returned to the kitchen, locking the door. "Let's see if I still remember how to do this."

Maybe it was a silly idea but since Heartman wanted to bring back Christmas, it was worth a shot.

An hour and a half had passed and you finally left the kitchen. Of course he didn't notice you weren't around for the longer moment.

"Sweetie. I have something for you!"

 There was no response from Heartman.

He was dead, again.

The chiral matter in his hourglass almost filled the bottom part which meant he was about to get back within the blink of an eye.

 Sighing, you took a seat on the leather couch, waiting for him to return.

 Another electric impulse made its way through Heartman's body, and the man jerked in his place regaining consciousness. "Y/N, did you say something?"

 You nodded. "I called you but I was a bit too late to catch you. Glad to see you back, come here. I have a Christmas gift for you."

 "A Christmas gift? For me?," He blinked and didn't even try to hide his consternation as he got up. "I didn't expect anything like this but I won't lie, I can't wait to see what you got for me!"

 You laughed. "Be a good man and open your mouth, eyes closed," you hummed with a smile. It was a little revenge for some test you had to do for him in the past.

 At first he blinked hearing your command. Then, he laughed loudly. "I'm sorry, sweetie, but as much as I love you, I don't hold an ounce of confidence in your actions," he joked, referring to that one particular time when you asked him to obey your words only to prank him.

 You rolled your eyes. "Trust me this one time. You won't regret it, I swear on the bond between us," you said, placing your hand over your heart.

 "I'm Heartman and my heart is already skipping a beat out of fear of what you've planned," he smirked but closed his eyes and parted his lips slightly. "I just want to warn you that if you'll try to feed me with chiral matter cookies, you'll regret the day you were born."

 You sighed and put a regular chocolate chip cookie between his lips. "Here. I hope I didn't burn them... And that they are good. I can't remember when I baked these for the last time."

 He chewed and then issued an opinion. "I like the flavour, the cookie was not too sweet yet not too bitter, too. You've added a perfectly measured amount of cocoa, the cookie had a tempting smell, too," Heartman stated. "I only lack some tiny ounce of ginger and honey but I know that it's extremely hard to get those."

 You looked at him, listening to his every word. It wasn't exactly the opinion you expected. "But... Do you like it? Before this all happened I used to make them for Christmas."

 "Do I like it? I love it, Y/N," Heartman replied. "If not for the fact I'm on a forever diet to stay in shape, I'd eat a tone of these!"

 "Oh, in such a case the whole jar of cookies wasn't a great idea," you giggled, rubbing your hand awkwardly. "Sorry."

 He sent you a smile. "I knew you'll surprise me, honey. But before I'll die again today, let me take you somewhere. While you'd been sleeping, I prepared something small," he claimed and got up from the cot, offering you his shoulder.

 You blinked confused but nodded, taking his arm. "Shall I be worried?"

 Heartman didn't reply but took you out of his laboratory. "Put your coat on," he advised. “By my side you don’t have to be worried.”

 You nodded and put on your coat just like he advised you. Just to be safe you also slipped on your warm boots. "Okay. I am ready... I think."

 He put his long, black coat on as well and led you outside of his facility.

Heartman stopped with you on the threshold of his outpost, being still under awning. "There," he pointed on the left. "Do you see him?"

 You rubbed your eyes, trying to get used to the brightness of the snow. Frowning you looked in the direction he pointed. "Is it…? Wait! Is it a snowman?"

 "Yes, it is. I called it the Death Stranding Snowman. He looks like a regular one but, if you'll take a closer look, you can see he had the Odradek and backpack, just like porters do."

 You giggled and nodded. "I can see that and I love it. I bet that Sam will love it as soon as he sees it. I am glad we live in a place like this actually, the Death Stranding Snowman will be with us longer due to low temperature."

 "Correct. And, also," he pointed his index finger up, right above your heads.

A plastic mistletoe hung on a tiny string attached to awning. "Maybe we can just have a little sneaky kiss under this mistletoe? It’s a tradition, isn’t it though?"

 You looked up at the mistletoe and laughed shortly. "Oh, you really got prepared while I was sleeping, huh?," You asked with a cocky smile.

 "Less talking, more doing," he muffled your voice with his lips crushing on yours.

 You hummed and kissed him back, placing your hands against his chest.

After a moment you pulled away to catch your breath.

 "Mmmm, that was something, Y/N," Heartman let out a hum of appreciation as his left palm was placed to your cheek where he gently brushed his thumb over your skin. "Ah! Just look at that! Sam's faster than I expected!"

 In the distance you could spot a little cloud of snow rising into the air. Sam Porter Bridges was riding his bike right to your outpost.

 You blinked and looked at the cloud of snow, giggling. "Oh, yes, he is, I still wonder how he is riding this thing through all the snow," you tapped Heartman's chest. "I will go pack him some cookies for the road and you get inside before you run out of time."

 Heartman decided to wait for Sam to approach.

When the other man got off his motorcycle and took all the packages, Heartman waved at him, still standing at the threshold of his outpost. "Sam Bridges! It's good to see you!"

 Sam didn't reply, only nodded his head while climbing up the stairs. By his way he turned head aside and stopped, looking at the snowman. “Seriously?,” He questioned loudly enough for Heartman to hear. “Whose idea it was?”

 Soon you joined both men. "Hello Sam, it's good to see you," you said with a smile and looked at Heartman, frowning. "I think I told you to get inside, huh?"

 "Easy, Y/N, I put this little thing on mute," he patted his AED a few times. “Idea for the snowman was totally mine. I’m thinking about getting similar sculptures to other Bridges locations, not necessarily made of snow but rather printed in Chiral Printers. We should consider bringing Christmas spirit all over America.”

 Sam scoffed Heartman’s words. “It’s not feasible as not all cities are in the network.” Sam was glaring at him, then he moved his glance to you. "Another order, huh? Are you opening a canteen or something? How is it possible for two people to use all of the supplies in a week?"

 "You kidding me right? I am not going to drag you back inside," uou muttered, completely annoyed with Heartman’s weird habit of muting the AED, so you simply unmuted the device.

"And it stays like this, sweetie," you said and turned your attention back to Sam. "Trust me, Sam, I have no idea what he is doing when I am asleep but our supplies melts like snow in the sun. I am so sorry for the trouble."

 With cocked brows Sam observed you and your little outburst of anger towards Heartman. "Yeah," he summed the situation up. Next moment he simply gestured at you and Heartman to slide aside. "I need to deliver these," he pointed at packages on his back.

 "Oh! Yes, right! Go to the terminal and then bring stuff inside," you instructed him and looked at Heartman. "We will be there."

 Heartman got back inside and took his coat as soon as he crossed the threshold of his laboratory.

 Soon, Sam joined you. He cringed at the very beginning after stepping in, when he spotted stuffed BTs with Christmas hats on. "The fuck...," He grunted to himself.

 "Heartman wants to bring back the Christmas spirit. In some way at least," you said looking at Sam from the couch and pointed at the big christmas tree. "BT in christmas hats aren't the only decorations here."

 Sam stopped at the top of four little stairs. "Yeah. I thought that you're not this type of guy because just like you claimed, you’re being dead inside," he summed up and got downstairs, putting the packages aside.

 "Well, you can see how much one person can change," you summed up getting up from the couch to walk up to Sam. "Here, since it's Christmas time. I have a little gift for you, I hope you will like it," you smiled at him, giving him a little bag of cookies.

 At first he hesitated to accept the little bag with cookies but soon he took it. "Thank you, Y/N."

 Heartman was laying on his cot. "Was nice to see you again, Sam. Thank you for bringing us all of the necessary things so quickly. You're simply the best porter."

 Sam nodded and grunted something under his breath only to turn around and got up the little stairs. "If only all BTs would be that cute," he pointed at two stuffed creatures.

 You giggled and nodded. "If all BTs were like these ones, the  world wouldn't be that scary. Thank you so much for coming, Sam. Have a good trip."

Several minutes passed since the moment Sam left you. Heartman was getting ready for another cardiac arrest when his intercom bipped, so the man frowned a little. “Do we expect any guests, Y’N?”

 You looked at him with a frown and shook your head.

Of course you didn't expect any guests, it's not like the good, old times when people could just visit friends randomly. It was a bit more complicated these days. "No, I do not and even if I did, I would inform you. Did you invite anyone?"

 He shook his head for no and got up. Heartman left his lab and went to the glazed entrance where the terminal was located. “Y’N, it’s Sam, come over here!”

 You even didn't bother to pull on the coat and joined Heartman, wearing your regular clothes.

"Sam? Is everything okay?"

 "Yes!," Sam yelled from the distance. "I improved your snowman, Heartman!"

 Heartman looked at you, frowning. "What is he talking about?," He asked and opened the main door to step slightly outside. The timefall stopped so Heartman simply got out of the building. "Y/N, you need to see this!"

 You were completely confused about what was going on. You followed Heartman to look at the improved snowman.

 The snowman had now one hand made of some plastic garbage Heartman found in his laboratory when the other one was made of snow, with middle finger up in the air. Next to the snowman there was a line of text scrawled in the snow. Fuck Higgs and his terrorists!, the inscription stated. Heartman lifted his hand up and gave a thumb up to Sam. “100 likes for this piece of art, Sam!”

 You gave Sam a thumb down. "And minus 50 likes from me. I preferred the previous snowman," you said but giggled.

  “You have no idea about modern art, Y/N!,” Sam yelled back and got onto his vehicle to roll down the hill.

“What? I like this anti-Monaghan version,” Heartman shrugged and wrapped arm around your shoulders. “Let’s get back inside. There are some handmade cookies left.”

Sweet but Psycho || Higgs Monaghan x Reader || Part 1

Summary: I joined Homo Demens as I had no other choice. I met Higgs Monaghan and witnessed unqualified hate that appeared to have no end. Now, it's about time I show my story to reveal to you a completely different face of man in the golden mask himself. (this story is written in Reader POV)

Warnings: None

Words: 842

Authors: Rouge

I was working for the militant separatist group known as the Homo Demens for over a month. I was lucky enough to be truly appreciated for my work and devotion. During my stay, Homo Demens managed to create a massive voideout near the Mountain Knot City. I took part in the venture as well. That event led me to a meeting with their figurehead, Higgs Monaghan.

The first impression was pretty good; he proved to be a tall man wearing a black gas mask that covered the entirety of his head. Over that, he wore a golden skeleton mask that covered the lower portion of his face as well as a black hooded cloak pulled up onto his head. He wore also a black bullet proof vest on top of a dim greenish-yellow suit.

“Y/N,” he greeted me, his tone was muffled by the masks he was having on. “I’ve heard a fucking lot about you lately,” he was circling around me like a predator that was getting ready to attack. “I certainly wouldn't have pegged you for a woman who wouldn’t be terrified of anything,” Higgs summed up, his tone soft like never before, and it made me cock my brow a little.

We were in his bunker, west of Lake Knot City. He wanted to meet me in person, as he stated in one of his mails, signed as Peter Englert. I couldn’t have said no to him, he was my chief after all.

“Thank you, sir,” I replied shortly, keeping a low and calm tone of my voice.

He stopped after I called him sir. He turned head towards me and remained silent for a longer moment. Next thing he did, was to take his golden mask off, as well as his second one.

I had to admit to myself that he was a handsome man, even if most of his face was hidden under the hood still. His face was well shaped, the slight beard was adding a load of charm to him, and his eyes… Oh, his eyes were simply magnetising with their blue tint.

“I’m not sir to you, remember that,” Higgs replied. “The name’s Higgs, The Particle of God that permeates all existence,” the man gently pulled the bow.

I gave him a nod.

His blue eyes were fixed on mine and I had a feeling that they can easily pierce through my soul.

“So, tell me now, Y/N, how did you become one of us?,” He asked, a serious interest in his tone. “It’s pretty unusual though for the woman to join the separatists.”

Before giving my reply, I ran the tip of my tongue along my upper lip. “I used to be the porter. During one of the deliveries performed by me and one of fellow Bridges porters, we both got right into the middle of BTs territory. It eventually ended in his death and a massive voideout while I managed to escape. Once I made it back to the Bridges, I was charged with treason and sent away. I had a choice, it was either dying during timefall or BTs or joining Homo Demens. Apparently the choice I made was the only reasonable one,” I told him my story in a nutshell.

While I was speaking, he took a seat at the counter of his desk, he was rubbing his beard from time to time while listening to me. When I finished, there was a long moment of silence between us. Then he spoke.

“Interesting. Fate is a fascinating thing, don’t you think?,” He asked, smiling widely and showing off his beautiful teeth.

I nodded. “Right.”

“You’re not a conversationist type, huh?,” Higgs chuckled.

I blinked as he ambushed me. “I never… I don’t pay attention to speaking and maintaining conversations, I’m rather a type who likes to operate smoothly.”

He smiled brightly at me and got off the desk, he walked to me and reached his gloved hand out to place it on my cheek. “We’ll work on it, sugar.”

I felt intimidated as he touched me. I had to admit to myself that I enjoyed it, a firm touch of his slender, gloved fingers on my rosy cheek. In the end, I offered him a slight nod.

“Good,” Higgs replied with a wide grin. “I started liking you,” the man stated openly. “You have the potential to be a truly remarkable entity.”

His words flattered me, so I gave him a smile back. “Thank you, Higgs.”

“Ah! Perfect!,” he clapped his hands happily, like a kid that would get candy. “First step forward! Keep on keeping on, as they say,” Higgs winked at me.

I couldn’t help but chuckle at his reference to one of the famous Bridges motivational sentences.

“Now, I’m having a new assignment for you,” Higgs’ tone changed suddenly; it became cold and a bit hostile.

I lowered my glance to avoid looking him in the eyes.

“Your mission is to assist me during the expedition to Edge Knot City. We have a dirty job to do.”

A Fiery Braid || Kyojuro Rengoku x reader

Summary: After Kanao braids your hair, the Flame Hashira wants to try a new hairstyle too.

Warnings: none

Words: 1823

Request: braiding Rengoku's hair.

Authors: Cass & Grizzly

Kyōjurō Rengoku walked around the common room of the Butterfly Estate, waiting for new orders. He had been there for a few hours that felt like an eternity to him; he preferred to remain active rather than sit still. Even so, he wasn't going anywhere; Kyōjurō had one more reason to stay. You were that reason.

You were attractive; your hair was always neatly braided, perfect skin was glowing. Whenever he was close to you, your curious Y/E/C eyes studied his every movement, leading him to assume that you were also a little interested in him. On that day, he saw you again; you had been talking to Kanao.

Kyōjurō was a little shocked when he noticed you and the young girl vanished when he only turned his head around after smelling freshly made onigiri. Young man decided to look after you.

You went to have tea with Kanao. Despite being so quiet, she didn't cause you much trouble. She always wanted to spend time with you.

You sat on a porch, drinking tea made by Aoi. Even though you loved being here, your time was running out. You had almost fully healed your broken ribs, wrist injury, and broken leg as well.

In an attempt to flip the coin, Kanao put away her cup. As it landed on her palm, the girl gave you a soft smile. “So would it be okay if I showed you a new braid I can make? Girls have taught me."

Your eyes widened in surprise. "Of course I don't mind. Just let me lose my hair." Saying this, you loosened the ribbons holding your hairstyle together and ran fingers through your hair.

Kanao put away the cups and tray during the meantime. After that, she moved closer to pull your long hair to the back so she could start working.

Little did you know that you were being watched by a pair of Kyōjurō's sharp eyes. You were drinking freshly brewed tea in one of the rooms when he noticed you. Why was he not asked if he wanted a cup as well? Suddenly, Kyōjurō leapt up and peered inside the chamber. "Ladies, good morning. Do you mind if I join you?"

You both stared at him.

Kanao didn't react at all, she was too focused on your hair.

Naturally, you bowed your head as much as you could to show your respect. Both of you were slayers, but let's be honest, you were much lower than Hashira. "Flame Hashira, good morning to you as well. I don't mind it and I am sure Kanao doesn't mind as well."

Kyōjurō Rengoku stepped in slowly, looking around for a free spot.

As he sat down on one of the pillows on the floor, he crossed his legs and watched you. "It is rumored that you are going to leave us soon, Y/N."

You nodded gently so as not to disturb Kanao's work. "My injuries are almost healed. I may be able to leave in a few days. I hope I won't be back here anytime soon... As a patient, I mean."

He whispered quietly, but repeated louder this time, "What a shame it will be that you will no longer be among us."

“I'm not skilled. I just do what I can to keep people safe. But thank you for your kind words. That means a lot." You smiled at him.

While he nodded, he remained in a strange state of thoughtfulness. "Are you planning anything?" He asked.

“It's been a while since I got any orders. If that doesn't change by the end of my treatment, I think I'll visit my own home for a bit," you shrugged a little. You added, "If my crow will bring orders. I think I'll be running after yet another demon."

"So it was your crow who stole my onigiri a few days ago!" He laughed softly.

"Did it have a dark blue sash?" You asked.

Rengoku nodded and touched a pair of chopsticks on the table in front of him to improve their position. "Indeed. Your friend is ill-mannered."

Embarrassed by your crow behavior, you blinked and blushed.

Although you knew that your crow's nature was not so benevolent and that it loved snacks, you didn't expect this.

"Flame Hashira, please forgive me! I had no idea he was so mischievous! I didn't know! I'm so sorry!"

"I could have used a second form on him, but he seemed oddly tame. Watch him next time, Y/N."

"My apologies! I had no idea he could do something like this. I will scold him as soon as possible."

Kanao interrupted your little panic by putting the braid on your shoulder. You looked at it and gasped loudly, it was so beautiful. "Woho! It's perfect, Kanao! Thank you so much, I love it."

The girl smiled and once again flipped her coin. Once it landed back on her palm, she nodded. "I am glad you like it. I will now join others and leave you two alone." Soon, she left the room.

Kyōjurō nodded with a smile on his face. "Your braid is very beautiful, Y/N. It suits you very well."

"Thank you. I braid my hair so they don't bother me while working." You nodded, stroking your hair.

“Isn't it true that a fabulous look always adds some spirit?" He smiled. "I guess Senjuro would like your crow pet."

"Yes, it does! I feel so much more comfortable knowing my hair looks nice and doesn't bother me," You nodded. "You mean your younger brother, right? I don't think he would like my crow since he loves to steal food."

"My little brother is almost as optimistic as I am so I am certain he would easily notice the positive aspects of the pet crow you have."

"Maybe," you replied. The crows belonging to other slayers seem calm and polite, but this one is really mischievous."

"I think it depends on the crow's personality. They're a lot like humans."

"Unfortunately I got hungry and rude." You sighed deeply, playing with your braid.

"You can always train him," Kyōjurō said as he looked at you. "I like your braid a lot. Could you please make me one?"

The blinked, completely overshadowed his question. "I-I… Sure. Your hair is long enough to make a decent braid. It won't be as long as mine though.”

As he gestured for you to approach, he undid the bun he had made. "I'd like to try that!"

As you continued to be surprised by his question, you got up and moved closer to sit next to him. Maybe it was silly, but honestly, you were scared of his hair. What if you burned your hands on it? Nevertheless, you moved your hand gently through the hair to ensure there were no tangles.

"Did you learn from a master or were you self-taught?"

"My father was a demon slayer. He was my master until he retired from fighting because of his wounds." You said, brushing his hair with your fingers before you started gently braiding them.

Kyōjurō nodded slowly as he listened to your story. "I trained to become a Hashira. It might have been easier for me since I am part of the Rengoku family and our lineage is filled with powerful swordsmen."

"I know, I heard a lot about your family." You nodded, gently braiding his hair.

"Just! I would like them to be braided as neatly as yours. Your braid is very beautiful."

Your skilled fingers collected strands of his hair and worked them.

I promise to do my best. I love your hair, sir, but I was sure they were hot since they looked like fire." You giggled, pulling back another strand of his hair.

A quiet hiss came from him. "Ough!" He then winked at you as he rolled his head back. "Don't worry, just kidding."

You told him, "Please, don't do that. I'm scared to pull your hair."

"You're not dealing with any demon here, it's just hair!" Flame Hashira reminded you in the soft tone of his.

"I'm braiding the hair of a Fire Pillar. It's terrifying on its own," you hummed, tying the strands together. "Could you pass me the ribbing in which your hair was tied up before?"

You received the item from him shortly after. Grabbing the end of the braid and tying it tightly to make sure your work wouldn't fall apart, you thanked him quietly. "It looks great."

To check the braid, he jolted up and rushed to the nearest mirror. The final result incorporated all of the hair into a smoothly woven pattern over the scalp. A smile spread across Rengoku's face as he said, "I love it!"

You smiled and clapped your hands. "I am so glad to hear that!"

“Maybe I can return the favor by taking you out for onigiri?” Rengoku asked, turning his head to you.

You stared at him again, surprised. Was he just... inviting you to dinner? "Of course. This sounds wonderful!"

Flame Hashira smiled at you with a small sparkle in his eye.

You smiled and followed him to the kitchen to grab a few onigiris.

After that, you two proceeded to sit on a porch. At first, you were afraid of Hashira, but now you were relaxed as if you were talking with a good friend.

As you held the onigiri in your hands, a craw wearing a navy blue sash jumped on your shoulder and simply grabbed the onigiri.

You blinked. "Hey!”

Rengoku chuckled. "That guy is rude," he said. "Or hungry. Hunger is the most unpleasant feeling a living being can experience."

He carefully examined one of his onigiris. Then, after a moment's hesitation, he opened his palm and extended his hand out to the crow, with onigiri in it.

Clearly, the crow couldn't resist the snack. The crow quickly swallowed it and spread his wings.

"CRAW CRAW! I brought an order! Order! A village where people go missing! Demons attack!"

Rengoku's crow joined you two soon, as well.

"North! North! The village in the north needs help! People are going missing. Y/N will join Flame Hashira to take care of the threat!”

"Huh?!” You gasped, shocked with the information.

Rengoku's lips curled in a little smirk as he nodded, getting up. "The order was passed. I think we need to hit the road. There are some demons that need to be slayed!"

"I just need a moment to gather my stuff," you nodded and then looked at your crow. "And you! You shouldn't just steal people's food!"

Crow definitely felt offended and just pecked you on the temple before flying away.

"So it's rudeness that runs in his little veins!" Rengoku chuckled softly and nodded at his own crow. "Get ready, Y/N. The duty is calling!"

"Yes, Rengoku-san!” You nodded excitedly and ran off to gather your things.

~WHEN THE PARTICLE OF GOD PERMEATES YOU~ || Part II

P̵̪̃ȁ̸̩ȓ̸̜ẗ̶͇́ ̴̓͜1̷̺̽

Summary: Without the past you can't understand the present. You meet Higgs Monaghan on your way. Will he help you find out about your past or will he try to use you for his own purposes?

Warnings: None

Words: 3299

Authors: Cass & Rouge

Days had been passing, and the situation remained unchanged.

You were lurking throughout the camp trying to be as productive as it was only possible, however you didn't have many occasions to help in anything as the others were pushing you aside. You weren't surprised though; you were a newcomer, without a purpose or any special skills, and you quickly became Higgs' favourite, which most of his men didn't approve.

Sometimes, it's enough to survive another day, right?, you'd been thinking to yourself.

"Would you look at that? Our little star is doing nothing as always. Why don't you go and be useful? Sucking Higgs off ain't enough here," one of men said grabbing your shoulder. "Why is he even keeping you here?"

Meanwhile Higgs was away, sitting in his bunker. He was trying to come up with some logical theory of how you ended up where you did. How could this happen that you just woken up with no past? “I’ve got breaking news and it’s about you fucking off of me,” you showed your middle finger to the group of men, and in return your gained few chuckles and some more rambunctious comments. When Higgs was gone, they were making a lot of fun of you, always; you hated every minute in the camp without Man in The Golden Mask.

Meantime, Higgs hummed, studding the map and trying to find the place you could come out from. Bridges was the closest point but it made no fucking seans for them to just leave you out there to die.

After a few more minutes Higgs shrugged. "Ah, fuck it. Time to check upon my kittycat." And with that he was back in the camp as he teleported. After stretching his back he called you. "Y/N! Where is my favourite girl hiding?" You were almost outside the camp, sitting at one of the largest rocks, taking notes and sketching the mountains located on the north. You tried to escape from all of the mean glances and comments. “Hey, you,” one of the guards pointed his laser gun at you. “Higgs is seeking  you in the camp. Move your ass to him.” With a loud sigh escaping your lips you closed the sketchbook and pinned your hair in a ponytail. While walking back to the camp, you were thinking about your purpose, it was pretty frustrating that you didn’t remember anything even after such a long period of time.

Higgs waited with hands crossed on his chest. He gave you a wicked smile as soon as he noticed you approaching. “Ah! Here is my lady with no past. I was getting fucking worried you are gone."

“Me? Gone? I have nowhere to go,” you replied to him with disarming honesty. “Good to see you, you’ve been gone for a longer while...,” you hesitated after saying this as you knew he’ll assume you missed him. Thanks Beach he didn’t realize yet it was all true.

"My cute deflowered sweetheart missed me," Higgs chuckled softly with a wide smile, showing the line of white teeth. "I missed you too and I was away, indeed. I’ve been thinking from where you came and I may have an idea."

Hearing his words you tilted your head aside a little. “Tell me?,” you asked.

"Well, my little, sexy kitten might be Bridges' property. Am not sure yet but I sure will find out!," He said loudly and shrugged. "I even have an idea how I will do it."

While you were listening to his words, your thoughts drifted in some unknown way and when you gathered your attention, you gave him a brief nod. “I see.” A deep sigh left your parted lips as you glared up at him. “Hey, I’ve been wondering whether there's something I can do around the camp, I hate how others are making fun of me and the fact that my only purpose here is to warm your cock up,” you rubbed your temples. “I can do anything, bring packages, clean, whatever.”

He chuckled at your question. It was simply stupid. "You are here to be by my side. To be a good girl," Higgs said, gently touching your cheek. "Tell me who bothered you and I will take care of this." A shiver ran along your spine as he touched your cheek; his tenderness was light like a touch of butterfly wings yet his fingers seemed to burn marks on your face. “Forget about it,” you asked him quickly as you dared to put your palm on top of his.

Higgs laughed and grabbed your waist, pulling you as close as possible. "Listen I know you might have a soft heart but it's all about the example. So? Which of those fuckers did it?," He asked again.

You licked your lips and bit the lower one as you got stressed. “If you truly care for me, leave it. I can handle as I don’t care,” you asked him once again while wrapping arms around his chest and nuzzling your head to him.

He squezzed your waist and smiled. "Kitten. You forgot who I am. No one dares to hurt what's mine, even with stupid insults," Higgs summed up and gently pushed you aside to walk to the group of terrorits. He smiled softly looking at others. "Okay! Listen up, fuckers. Which one of you was brave enough to throw stupid words at my girl?"

“Oh my God,” you whispered under your breath as you realized what was happening. You followed him quickly and stood by his side, swallowing hardly while your sight slipped over all the gathered men.

“It was me,” one of them stepped ahead from the group, keeping his head produly up. “Listen, Higgs, we all know that you’re the most powerful of us but it’s fucking rude to be the only one who gets laid and who’s allowed to have a girl around. Most of us don’t like her presence as all she does is lurking around, no purpose, no skills,” the guy continued to speak. “Would be better if you sent her away or killed her. No one needs her around, except you. You’re not better than any of us.”

Higgs hummed listening to the complaints. Then he walked in the line, from left to right with his hands placed behind his back. "If I can be honest. She is more worthy than any of you here but…," he said slowly, rubbing his chin, "But you, bastards, you all are fucking lucky. IT'S YOUR LUCKY FUCKING DAY! Because instead of killing you all and leaving your bodies at Bridges doorsteps, I will fix what you all are complaining about," Higgs announced and looked at you.

You frowned a little at his words.

“So? Will you send her away?,” the man asked, his eyes and you.

Higgs wrapped his arm around your shoulder, pulling your tightly to his side.

"Oh, Y/N, Y/N... You see, these men here are mad at me because I gave you no duties," he let out a loud sigh, petting your hair. "So, from now on, this lovely lady here is my second in command! You insult her - you insult me and trust me fellas, you don't wanna do that. Thank you for the attention, get back to your fucking duties!," Higgs snorted at the men, kissing your cheek, and then walked away like nothing ever happened.

You almost fainted when he claimed you for his deputy. You felt the piercing glances of his men on you and you already knew it would bring even more troubles. After a second of thinking, you ran after him. “Higgs, I don’t think it’s a good idea, I have like… I mean… I’m not as charismatic as you, I can’t command people,” you tugged on his sleeve to stop him from walking. “They already hate me, now it will escalate,” you shook your head. “Let’s face the truth, I’m no one, I have no idea how to… You know.”

Higgs effortlessly picked you up. "If they will, then they will meet the friendly BTs. You are working with me now. Don't worry, I will handle everything."

To support yourself from falling, you instinctively wrapped legs around his hips and nuzzled to his chest. “Thank you, Higgs. You’re doing so much to me when I did so less in return. I have no idea how some people can call you a terrorist or a bad guy. I wish they could spend at least one day around you and I bet they’d agree with me on the fact you’re not only a great, fearless leader but also a charming, caring man.”

Higgs laughed. "I nuked two towns. I want to end the fucking world. No one else but you would like me, dear," he summed up before placing a soft kiss to your rosy lips.

When the evening came, Higgs was positive about his idea. He had to get into Bridges place and dig through their documents. If you’ve ever been one of them, your documents should be there.

"How do I look, my sexy second in command?," Higgs asked, presenting himself wrapped in an old Bridges uniform. "Let's not foeget about the fucking crown," he joked putting the Bridges hat on.

You two were in Higgs' tent. You were laying on your side on his cot resting head on your hand. "You look fucking handsome, as always," you informed him. "This uniform hugs your ass nicely though," you didn't stop yourself from adding. "Are you sure you won't be to assist you? I'm going to be sad while you'll be gone," you slowly sat on the cot.

" I will do it myself. This can't be hard, there is only one lady as sweet as you. I will find it quickly and before you’ll count to ten - I am going to be fucking back," Higgs said improving the belt. "After that, I will fuck you so hard that the whole camp will hear the second in commend screaming under the leader."

A soft chuckle of yours escaped your mouth as the reaction for his statement. "After your return, I'll just take care of you, make sure you eat and drink and later we will cuddle," you told him while getting up. "And if you'll be a good boy, I'll think of a prize." You walked to him and wrapped your arms around him. "Promise me you'll be careful and won't let them catch you."

 "Sweetheart. I feel so fucking hurt right now! I thought you have more faith in me," Higgs chuckled and squeezed your cheek playfully. "Don't make your sweet little face worried about it. They will never get me."

When he vanished you circled his tent a few times before taking a seat in the corner, just like you did the first day when he found you in the cave.

Getting inside was a child's play. Who would mind a porter wandering the corridors? Of course fucking no one.

The archives were a mix of papers and computer data. Going through the second thing was easy, yet your face didn't flash on any document, and it was fine.

Maybe he was wrong. Maybe you weren't Bridges. That would be a fucking relief.

After an hour of digging through papers, Higgs was sitting on the floor with legs crossed. He was reading through one of the folders when the ones he read previously were scattered around him like snow.

The door to the archive slides open and Samuel Bridges stepped in; he had to pick some folders up to deliver them to Lake Knot City. He became suspicious when he spotted a mess and folders laying on the floor. As he stepped further into the long room, he found even more documents scattered everywhere. "You. Who are ya and what are ya doing here?," He asked, his tone cold as he spotted a man sitting in the middle of the room.

Higgs didn't raise his eyes until he was done with the folder he was holding in palms, after reading through it he simply threw it over his shoulder.

"Ah! Sammy boy! It's nice to see you again, sorry but I don't have time for a chit chat. I am looking for something," he shrugged, taking another folder into his hands.

 Sam cringed at the sound of the voice, too familiar. It couldn’t be a coincidence. "Higgs? What the fuck?," He asked in disbelief as he walked closer to the other man. "How did you... Ah, right. You jumped through the Beach," Sam replied himself. "Leave it," he pulled the folder out of Higgs' hands.

"You are a smart boy, ain't ya?," He laughed and in another folder he saw your photo.

"BINGO! Here you are, sweetheart!" Higgs said loudly and jumped back to his feet. "Tell me, Sammy boy, do you know anything about a particular porter? Her name is Y/N?"

Sam blinked, he was getting more confused with every second. "What's your problem, Higgs, have you fallen in love? Ah, right, it's hard to make connections when you don't have a heart," Sam grinned wryly at the other man. "Even if I know, I won't tell you, that's not your business since the day you and the tide has turned. Give it back," Sam yanked the hat off Higgs' head.

Higgs laughed and rolled his eyes, tucking your folder under his suit to make sure Sam won't get it. "Well! To your surprise I fell in love. Just like you. Well! But you’re not in love anymore. I bet that wife of yours was beautiful…," He mocked walking around Sam. "But she was blind for taking a chance on ya."

Sam reacted instantly with aiming his first at Higgs' cheek. "Apologize, you useless fucker, and give me the fucking folder back."

Higgs only laughed at the reaction. "Wife and unborn child. Such a shame, maybe that is why you are so sad and grumpy, and developed this phobia of yours," Higgs laughed playfully. "You know what? I like you, you can keep the cap. I have few from the old, good days. It was nice to see you again, Sammy boi!," Higgs licked the tip of Sam's nose before disappearing.

Sam tried to grab Higgs by his Bridges uniform but he didn't manage. Cursing under his breath he quickly left the archive without picking the folder he came there for; he had to inform Deadman about the situation.

You were dreaming about some crazy ass things like dolphins trying to pull you under water when Higgs returned. You were still sitting in the corner of his tent, knees pulled under your chin, your arms wrapped around them as you were rolled in a ball.

Before entering the tent, Higgs took a brief look at the info about you gathered in the folder he stole. He wasn't sure what to think. After entering the tent he looked at you and chuckled quietly, getting on your level by crouching.  Higgs brushed hair off of your forehead and placed a kiss there. "Ding ding, ding! Honey, I am home. Where is my promised dinner?"

You jolted in place, your muscles twitched and you almost screamed. You opened eyes and for a brief second they were getting used to the light of the lamp. When you saw him crouching next to you, you knelt and wrapped arms around his neck, pulling him into the tight hug. "Higgs! I dreamt they got you! I was so... Scared! You're back! Holy Beach, I was so scared." As you were hugging him he could easily feel the beat of your racing heart, even though your suit. "Let me bring you something. I tried to get you pizza but... I failed."

Higgs hugged you tightly, holding you with both arms. "Well, maybe it's because you slept on the floor. I didn't get these fancy pillows and blankets for nothing," he chuckled, rubbing your back. "It's okay, sugar. I will make Sam deliver us some. Look what I got," he said proudly, showing you the folder.

You shivered. "Is this... Is this mine?," You asked him as you sat on the floor. "Who am I then?," You made puppy eyes and looked right into his.

"You are a porter apparently. Ex now, technically. Good one," Higgs summed up. “Y/N. Working for Bridges for 5 years. Fast and careful with her deliveries, open for contacts with clients as well as fellow porters. Went missing in action. Y/N delivered the assigned package yet never made it back to any of the existing facilities. There were no voidouts that could mean her death. No body nor evidences were ever found. Investigation in that case brought nothing, so Y/N is presumed dead but there's still a slight chance of her being still alive. Signed by: Director Die-Hardman," Higgs ended reading the last note in your folder.

You nodded. "So... They're not looking for me... So, in this situation... I can be whoever I want because I think they wouldn't let me get back..."

"It's not that you are kicked out. I bet that as soon as you would get to any of their places, they would take care of you. They think you are dead but with a possibility of return," he explained. "Y/N? I need to ask you something."

You looked at him like a kid would look at the parent. "Yes?"

"Is this a hoax? I walked into Bridges without problem and then? I get fucking Sam Bridges into the archive. My people were doing their job and you come out of nowhere. You don't know who you are yet you cling to me so suddenly," he said with a frown. "Is this a trap? Did they send you to get inside? To get to me?"

You lowered your head. "Even if they did, I don't remember. I told you many times, I have no idea how I found myself outside, all alone, only with a backpack. I'm clingy because... I...," You started blushing so you got up to take a seat on his cot. "You showed me affection, you offered me your generosity, hospitality... You were kind when no one else was. You took care of me and kinda taught me how to survive in this shit."

Higgs joined you on the coat. "You promise me that the note, and your lack of memory isn't just a way to get to me?"

"I cross my heart," you assured him with a serious tone. "I don't care what you have done and why do they want to get to you but God's my witness I won't tell anyone about you." The fact he even could think about you being a spy hurt you much but you kept a straight face.

"I am sorry for accusing you for anything," Higgs whispered into your ear before pulling you on his lap. “Ya know, gotta be careful about some certain things.”

You nuzzled to the crook of his neck. "It's okay, I understand, I would be suspicious too if I were you."

Higgs smiled, playing with your hair. "My little porter," he said with a smile. "Only mine."

You inhaled his scent, the sweet mix of a masculine musk and warmth of his skin. You placed a kiss to his bearded cheek and brushed your against his shortly after. Your arms wrapped around his chest. "Thank you for all you've done to me, for keeping me safe."

"And I will keep on keeping you safe. Not a single fucking Bridges will ever lie a finger on you again. You will stay with me till the end of the world we know," Higgs said, squeezing you tightly.

A sad sigh escaped your lips. "Till the end."

Arranged Marriage || Part II || Ivar x Female!OC

Part I

Summary: Growing closer to each other, Freya and Ivar begin to realize that their parents’ decision about marriage was not as bad as they thought. Ivar tries impossibly hard to appear as unapproachable viking to Freya, but he’s actually very charming, as for her liking. Ivar, however, begins to realize Freya wasn’t merely a whiny woman as he formerly thought. As a result of their marriage, their wedding night is quickly approaching.

Warnings: smut (if you’re a minor, don’t read!)

Words: 13,5k

Authors: Cass & Fenrir

The morning came quickly. Too quickly as for Ivar's liking.

He woke up as the first one and discovered how beautiful and peaceful Freya looked while sleeping.

Ivar couldn't stop himself from reaching his palm to caress her rosy cheek.

After that, he got out of the bed and crawled back to his chamber, to not get caught so easily by her side.

Girl yawned loudly, hugging the fur she used to cover herself with, and growled loudly when she saw an empty spot next to her. He left? How could he leave her all alone?!

Freya growled loudly and then got up to her ready for the day by putting on her best dress, braiding her hair as beautifully as it was only possible and putting just enough makeup on.

Ivar was already present in the throne chamber, dressed in black tunica and black pants, with braces wrapped around his legs. He looked so fresh and happy. As soon as he spotted her, he raised his palm to greet her.

Freya huffed and looked away as soon as she noticed Ivar. Of course she was angry, he just left her alone when she was sure they finally had some connection. "Do you... Eat together in the morning? I used to do so with my family and I would like to talk to Ubbe."

"My dumbshit brother still sleeps. Yes, we do, mother is very strict about this." Ivar informed. "Freya, you look so beautiful."

"As I can see you are rude as always but thank you for miraculously kind words." She nodded, smoothing her dress.

"Beautiful and sweet as always." Ivar commented. "Why are you so unhappy today?"

"Oh, well. Let's see." Freya hummed, tapping her cheek. "I had a really pleasant evening with my soon-to-be husband. He was kind to me once but who would have thought he would be gone before I even woke up?" She growled.

"Okay, so what's the commotion about me getting up early? Listen, it takes me a while to get ready in the morning, especially when I have braces on." He raised his finger at his braces. Sweetheart, I need more time than you do. But I can't lie, you sleep so peacefully that I would love to stay with you longer."

Freya blushed but frowned, crossing her arms over her chest. "Why didn't you? I wouldn't be mad, it would be really nice, actually, love."

"I told you why. I had to get ready for the day."

I could help you if you needed it, or at the very least, you could wake me up." She said, shrugging. "It wasn't enjoyable to wake up alone."

"I didn't want to disturb your sleep. You needed some proper rest after yesterday."

She sighed and walked to him, sighing. "Let it be but do not leave me like this." Freya suddenly touched his cheek, gently stroking it. "How are you feeling?" She asked.

Ivar almost hummed and leaned into her touch. "Yes... Good... Keep on..."

Freya kissed his forehead softly after stroking his cheek with her thumb.

Ivar murmured quietly but stopped when he noticed his mother standing nearby.

Aslaug smiled widely and said, "And just yesterday you claimed to snap the neck of a girl that will come here. She has you wrapped around her finger."

You blinked and looked at him, raising your eyebrow at the whole 'neck snapping' thing.

"Mother," Ivar greeted the queen and rolled his eyes at the woman's comment about Freya, "Don't jump to such conclusions. She's just being helpful to a cripple."

Freya blinked, surprised and frowned. She didn't just try to be kind to a cripple. All she wanted was to get closer to Ivar but apparently he had his own conclusions. She huffed angrily and simply walked away to find herself a free seat at the table.

The queen chuckled, nodding her head. "Of course. Keep thinking that."

Ivar offered his mother a glance.

Soon, Ubbe joined. "Good morning, dear family," he said, finishing braiding his long hair. "Freya," he greeted the girl. "How did you sleep?"

Freya smiled at Ubbed sweetly and nodded. "I slept very well. The bed was so nice and warm until morning. How was your night?"

"Good. As much as it can be when you share a chamber with the younger brother who snores."

Ivar giggled loudly.

"Oh... I am so sorry to hear that. I heard no snoring." Freya giggled, giving Ivar a short look before her attention returned to Ubbe. "So, are there any places I could visit today?"

Aslaug frowned. "Why would you leave the Great Hall? Are you bored with my son already?"

Girl shook her head. "None of that, my queen. I just want to know Kattegat better. After all I will stay here, also I want to do something interesting."

"I can show you our settlement," Ivar offered instantly, throwing cold glances to Ubbe, "If you want, of course. Unless you want to go with my brother. At least no one is going to laugh seeing the two of you."

Ubbe stopped with a chalice raised to his lips, his eyes falling on Ivar's face. He could see the anger in his little brother's eyes. "I can take her for a walk, it's not a problem."

Freya looked at Ubbe and then back at Ivar. Oh, how she wanted to mess with him a little longer. He looked cute when he got mad and probably jealous. But she decided not to tease him for now, there would still be time for this. Her grin was contagious. "I will stay with Ivar.”

Ivar smirked proudly. It cost him a lot to not say anything to Ubbe. The feeling was amazing; he won the small fight and it tasted like ale.

Freya smirked as well, seeing Ivar's happiness. Those blue eyes told her everything she needed to know.

Rest of the morning went quiet. Freya was nice to other brothers and Queen, simply talking with them. After breakfast Freya got up from her seat and walked to him. "Is the walk still a thing or you changed your mind?"

"No. I'll take you on a walk. Just I need to go get something so I need to ask you for a little more patience," Ivar replied.

Hvitserk raised his brows and muttered something to himself.

"What's that?" Ubbe asked, nudging his elbow into Hvitserk's side.

“A girl is dating a cripple."

Sigurd shrugged and said, "She is forced to do it, Hvitserk. Remember, she does it to please our mother and her own father." He predicted, "She will run away as soon as she can.".

Aslaug ignored her older sons, looking too intently at Ivar.

Ivar smiled, and Freya gently kissed his temples. "I'll just sit here with the Queen and wait for you. Take your time."

He nodded in agreement. After slowly getting up, he limped back to his room.

Ubbe glanced at their mother. "Are you happy, mama?" he asked.

"Yes, I am. Of course, I am. Ivar will have this lovely girl as his wife." She nodded. "You three aren't happy for your younger brother?"

The smile on Ubbe's face assured Aslaug that he was happy. He had never shown such politeness before.

Hvitserk, on the other hand, merely shrugged. It didn't matter to me.

Sgurd rolled his eyes and shook his head. "Ivar didn't deserve such a chance. He will hurt her. Just like he did to Margrethe. One of us should marry her. Even Bjørn could."

Freya blinked, staring at them. 'Margrethe? Hurt? Who was she?' She wondered.

Ubbe rolled his eyes as he looked at Sigurd. "Stop it!" He said.

Sigurd said, "You were the first to ridicule him for that. She ought to know what kind of man will be her husband."

Ubbe frowned, encouraging him to tell her. "I bet my right hand Ivar will try to rip off your head."

Sigurd nodded and turned to Freya. "As for someone with such a beautiful name and face you ended up with a boy that can't even..."

"Enough!” Aslaug almost yelled. "The three of you are done eating. So off you go, I bet there are thralls thirsty for your pricks." She growled.

The girl was completely confused as she sat there.

The fuss didn't escape Ivar's attention when he returned from his chamber. Is there anything I missed?" He asked, holding a thick bear fur in his hand.

After giving the other boys one last look, Aslaug shook her head, smiling at Ivar. "Nothing is as critical as you think. Ready for a walk?"

Sigurd was the only one to chuckle at the question.

Ivar's eyes instantly scanned the room and stopped on Sigurd. "Do you have a problem?"

"No, not really. I just feel bad for Freya. The walk with a cripple will be sad and humiliating." Sigurd commented looking at Ivar.

Freya was fed up with this stupid play. She rose from her seat and walked towards Sigurd.

"I am tired of you, I am tired of your comments. I don't know what your problem is. I will be Ivar's wife in the future while you'll keep on fucking random thralls."

As Ivar blinked, he took a seat at the table to process what he had just heard. "Freya, leave him, he won't understand." Ivar said slowly.

Older brother said, "You will have problems with him."

Girl snapped, "I don't care. For now, I only have a problem with you. So go get your prick wet because you apparently need this. Maybe some girl will think you are special thanks to those stupid eyes."

Sigurd frowned. "As you wish. Just don't come to us when he will try to strangle you in your bed." He muttered and left.

Freya let out a deep breath and smoothed her dress before smiling at Ivar. "Are you ready?"

Aslaug was of course taken aback by it all but as a good mother should; she simply observed.

Ivar got up slowly and looked at her. He nodded slowly. "Sure. If you still want."

Ubbe smiled at the girl and his brother and as soon as they left, he looked back at the queen. "I can't believe they're speaking so calmly.”

Aslaug nodded, admitting, "You see? Your youngest brother isn't as bad as you all think, boys. He just needs some love and I am more than sure that Freya will give it to him."

Hvitserk chuckled a little darkly. "But mom, you do realise you'll never have grandchildren if it comes to Ivar?"

"Perhaps the three of you will finally follow your brother's lead and take a step to find a real woman and give me grandchildren." Aslaug snapped and added, "Besides, you never know, he may have more children than all of you combined."

"Surely he will. Did you hear that from the Seer?"

"Just go already. Don't you two have stuff to do? Or fuck?" She asked with a roll of her eyes.

"Of course, ma." Hvitserk replied and got off the table to leave the Great Hall as well.

"Let's just hope Ivar will be good for her and won't hurt her." Aslaug sighed, looking at Ubbe.

"What can I say, mother? You know he's short tempered, just like you," he winked at her. "So, you said that you need some help with planning. What can I do for you?"

In the meantime, Ivar stopped outside the Great Hall and looked at her. "Wait, you can't go like that."

She looked at her dress and blinked as she gazed at him. "Is there something wrong with my dress? Shall I change? Maybe I braided my hair in the wrong way... I can change, no problem."

Ivar gave her a look, cocking his brow. He handled her bear fur in a dark brown colour, saying, "You'll get cold. Put it on."

Freya quickly shook her head. "No, honey. You will get cold... Last thing I want is for you to get sick and suffer more than you already do. I will be fine."

The fur was simply placed on her shoulders as Ivar shook his head. "Don't worry. I'm a warrior, I am never sick or weak."

With a nod of the head, Freya accepted the fur and tucked it properly around her shoulders, nuzzling to it gently. "So? What shall we do first?"

"Follow me," he gestured to her.

While walking down the sandy path, Ivar told her about the buildings they passed by.

As Freya tried to keep up with him, she followed him slowly. Everything he said sounded so interesting.

"Over there," he pointed north, "Is a place where my father fled, leaving us all behind." Ivar said.

Freya blinked, surprised at the sudden information. At this point she wasn't sure what to say. "Oh... How could a father do such a thing?"

"My father might be the most famous viking of them all, but he is nothing but a prick." Ivar told her with a slight shrug of his shoulders.

Freya nodded. "My father... Never left me. He always kept a watchful eye on me."

"Lucky you then." Ivar replied with his eyes stopped on the mountain on the horizon.

She gently touched his shoulder. "Let's go, Ivar. I am more than sure you want to show me more."

"Yes. I want you to meet a person who has a very special place in my heart," he informed the girl and gestured for her to follow. "Come on, come on."

Freya of course followed him. Her curiosity was piqued when she heard his words.

Ivar limped down the path.

Prince attracted a lot of attention from people, who stopped whatever they were doing to look at him and the girl by his side.

Upon seeing the couple, a few young girls started giggling and whispering to each other.

Ivar ignored them perfectly.

This didn't escape Freya's attention since it seriously pissed her off. Although Ivar wasn't ordinary, that didn't give anyone a right to laugh at him. Taking a look at the girls, she asked, "Hello! What's going on?".

One of them crossed her hands over her chest while whipping her hair. "Have not seen you before. We," she pointed at the girls gathered around her, "Aren't exactly sure who would accompany Ivar the Boneless. Especially if it's a girl."

Ivar stopped, looking back at you. "Freya. Come."

"At last, you are brave enough to speak openly." Freya frowned, crossing her arms over her chest as she spoke. "My name is Freya and I dare to walk with Ivar. Do you have any problem with that?”

The girl giggled, "I don't think so, but I think you do." She said, "I hope you know what his sweet nickname 'boneless' means."

"I don't really care what it means." Freya simply shrugged. "Is there anything else you want to say?"

Another girl raised her eyebrow, giving Ivar a mean glance. "He will not be able to satisfy you nor give you a child. Pity you, you have a pretty face. You should have gone after one of his brothers instead."

"I'm sure you already have. I wouldn't be surprised at all, since you look like a simple whore who would jump on any cock." Freya said, shrugging and joining Ivar. "Forgive me that I wasted our time on these girls. Let's go now."

Ivar looked at her a little angrily. "I told you to come earlier. Listen to me. And don't engage in unnecessary conversations."

She blinked and frowned. "So you will just let them whisper about you behind your back?!”

The subject was dropped when he said, "I don't want to discuss this." "It's not relevant. Leave it."

She followed him as he wished, rolling her eyes.

Ivar remained silent the entire time.

He stopped and offered her his arm as soon as they left the settlement.

Since Freya was more than certain that he was angry, this gesture surprised her. However, it made her smile because it was a positive sign. The offer was accepted, and Freya took his arm. "I'm scared of where you'll take me." She stated.

He told her, "We're going into the woods, so you'd better make sure you hold my arm." "The last thing we need is for you to fall into a bear nest or something. As a cripple, I wouldn't be able to save your beautiful ass if that happened.".

Holding on to him firmly, she laughed and shook her head. "Throughout my childhood, I spent a lot of time in the forest running around, but as you wish, I will stay close and hold on tight."

It felt comfortable already to feel her hands on him; her grasp was strong yet light.

They walked slowly through the woods, in silence.

Freya remained quiet so as not to disturb the silence. She just kept looking up at the trees and the clear sky above. At some point she wrapped some of the fur she was wearing around Ivar's figure as well, just to be sure he wouldn't get cold.

Ivar looked at her after she wrapped fur around him; in the end he offered her a little nod and a smile.

Her face enlightened by little sun rays falling from thick treetops was like a blessing; her beautiful blue eyes glinting with small sparks of excitement, her round, soft lips parted as she inhaled the cold, fresh air into her lungs, her rosy cheeks from the cold wind on her high cheeks. She looked like a goddess. Ivar began to believe she really was one of Æsir.

Freya placed a gentle kiss on his temple as she continued walking.

In this cold wind, the fur kept them both warm.

Even though there was silence during the walk, Freya really enjoyed it. Just being close to him made her happy. She was a bit confused when Ivar stopped. "What... Where are we?"

Ivar shouted, "You old, stinking brat! Where are you hiding your slimy ass?!"

The more Freya looked at him, the more confused she became

Ivar waited for the response, but there was none. He finally turned to his girl. "Come further."

Freya became concerned that Ivar had lost his mind. The area looked abandoned and he appeared to be acting as if someone was there.

Suddenly, a tall, older man appeared before them. He appeared out of nowhere, letting out a deep laugh. As if a stone had been thrown into a still pond, his laughter made ripples. Why does a cripple with a crooked face like yours hang out with women?

Ivar tilted his head a bit. "Since none of them want to waste their time on you." The young man replied with a mischievous grin on his face.

Freya almost jumped out of her skin when the man suddenly appeared in front of them.

In an instant, she hid behind Ivar and looked at the stranger over his shoulder. Girl didn't like this at all, at least it looked like Ivar knew him.

In the end, the older man offered Ivar a wink as he summarised, "So you found yourself a cute, jumpy creature." "I'd like to see her."

Ivar turned his head a tiny bit to look at her. "Don't worry. He's not dangerous. Not emotionally stable, that's true, but not dangerous in the least."

Freya frowned, looking at Ivar. Even though she wasn't so sure, she did what he asked since she kind of trusted him. The girl sighed and smoothed her dress before walking behind Ivar. "Hello there... Um... My name is Freya."

The older man looked at the girl curiously and said, "With your look, you're very winning. Freya it is." He hummed, smiling brightly at her.

Girl nodded. Her eyes focused on Ivar as she replied, "Yes, that is my name and thank you."

"Floki is my father from another mother, an old, stinky, bald wiseass." Ivar told her openly.

Freya blinked and then gasped loudly. "Floki? You mean that Floki? The finest boatbuilder there ever was?!”

Floki giggled loudly while nodding. "That's me, my beautiful Freya. Am I such a well-known and distinguished boatbuilder that my fame is few steps ahead of me?"

Freya jumped into place, clapping her hands a little in celebration. "Your boats brought Ragnar everywhere!" she said.

Floki glanced at Ivar once in a while while watching the girl. "She's lovely, you should marry her."

After looking at Ivar for a moment, Freye laughed nervously. "Well.... So... I think you will like the news that this will actually happen."

"News?" Floki asked as he sat on a thick branch of a fallen tree.

Freya looked at Ivar. "Are you even here with us?”

Ivar stared at Freya without blinking.

Floki said, "He just zoned out. With such a beautiful woman by his side, it is no surprise that he did that. You know, he is not good with women."

Ivar frowned and walked over to the girl. "You're not particularly adept with women, old fool." He added.

"Don't be so selfish, Ivar!" A spirited woman replied and soon Floki was joined by a blond girl. "How are you, by the way?” She asked and immediately walked to Freya to cup her cheeks. A woman looked at Floki and said, "She is so pretty. Did Ivar really bring her here?"

Freya was giggling uncontrollably.

"He did.” Floki giggled, looking after the woman. "They brought us some news."

As Ivar walked slowly towards Freya, he nodded. "She's going to become my wife."

Woman's gaze fell on Freya as she gasped. "Is that true?”

Freye smiled and nodded. "Y-Yes, that's true. It's our parents' decision but it will certainly happen."

"It's our decision as well," Ivar's hand rubbed small circles on Freya's waist. "And this lovely blonde is Helga, Floki's wife."

Freya raised an eyebrow and looked at Ivar with a soft smile. Then she smiled at Helga. "The following statements are true. Soon we'll be husband and wife." Freya nodded her head as a bright smile appeared on her lips.

Helga giggled and embraced Freya before hugging Ivar. "Look, Floki! We will have a delicious feast to attend soon."

Ivar corrected Helga, "The greatest of them all. You know my mother. She will do anything to make sure this day is remembered and talked about for years." Ivar glanced at his girl. "And this beautiful woman, she has already brightened up the entire settlement. I saw people looking at her, but is it too much to ask? She is like a goddess. It was as if Freya herself chose to honour us with her presence."

Helga said excitedly, "Oh, she'll look even more beautiful at the wedding. I'll help her get ready. Find a gorgeous dress, braid her hair, I'll make her a big flower crown!"

Freye smiled and nodded. "I would love that! Since my mother won't be here, this would be very kind!"

Ivar smiled as he let go of Freya's waist. After letting go, he watched both girls walk away, giggling and talking. Ivar loved that about his soon-to-be wife: she was very kind to everyone and spread a pleasant aura around herself.

The shoulders of Floki wrapped around Ivar. "Are you in love?" Floki asked. "Your face is flushed like that of a young shieldmaiden who has just seen her first real manhood."

The only response Ivar could muster was a roll of the eyes.

Freya walked with Helga, talking and chatting about the wedding and everything that needed to be prepared. It was nice to finally talk with someone who wasn't directly involved in this whole mess.

A man as big as a bear suddenly called out Helga's name. Once again, she hides behind her new friend.

Ivar's smirk was instantly wiped from his face when he saw Bjørn approaching.

"Ivar!" The man shouted, taking only two steps before he was standing in front of a cripple. "I came to find you on behalf of your mother."

Freya was taken back to Ivar and Floki by Helga. "Bjørn! It's good to see you as well." She said cheerfully.

The tall, blond viking man completely captivated Freye's attention. His appearance was the opposite of Ivar's.

Bjørn caught sight of her with the corner of his blue eye, and soon his full attention was drawn to her. "Who are you?"

Freya smoothed her dress nervously and smiled as she cleared her throat. "My name is Freya."

While he didn't try to hide the fact that he was checking her out, his eyes drifted up and down her body, inspecting every curve. "Bjørn Ironside." He introduced himself briefly. "It's my first time seeing you, but you can't possibly be a thrall. What are you doing here?"

Helga announced that Freya would soon be Ivar's wife.

Freye smiled and nodded her head. "That's true, I was brought here to become Ivar's wife. So I am not a thrall, you're more than right."

Bjørn laughed loudly, rolling his head back a bit. "Oh, you poor, helpless thing." He took one step closer to find himself in front of the girl. His palm was immediately placed on her cheek. "Such beauty is going to be wasted."

Freya nuzzled to his hand and sighed, shrugging just a little bit. "Honestly, I wasn't the one who made this decision. Father brought me here and said I should marry him."

A glance from Ivar could freeze everything in a blink of an eye, as he cocked his brows. "Freya, let's get back to the Great Hall." He growled.

Bjørn's thumb gently caressed the girl's cheek. "Look at you, you could have anyone, but you're stuck with the most disagreeable person. What a shame."

Once again, Ivar sounded cold when he repeated her name.

When she heard her name, she turned her attention to Ivar. She purred quietly at other man's touch but her attention quickly shifted to Ivar. Freya bit her lips and even if she didn't want to, she moved away from Bjørn to join Ivar.

Ivar grabbed her hand, thanked Helga and Floki, and started dragging Freya after him.

Bjørn spoke with Floki for a while, watching as his step brother walked away.

I-Ivar! You don't have to pull me! I can walk on my own. I am not a horse you need to lead." Freya said as she whimpered under the strength of his grip.

"What the hell was that, woman?" He yelled loudly as they walked along the path that brought them to Floki in the first place. His grasp never relaxed.

She growled, "What's your problem this time? He was just polite to me!"

"And of course you had to fall for these stupid, silly games. As a wife, you have to behave like one. You think I'm deaf and blind?" Ivar raised his tone.

As Freya struggled to free her hand from his grasp, she said, "He appears to know how to behave around women."

With a low growl, he let go of her hand and turned quickly to her. "Of course! Go to him then! Go on! You're free!"

" I need to remind you there is no one who can free me from this situation! I will remain your wife no matter what." She replied, rubbing her palms together. She could see the bruise forming already.

"It doesn't matter. I knew from the beginning that this idea was absurd. How could you fall for someone like me? Go to him. I'm freeing you from this stupid arrangement that none of us are comfortable with."

"Neither you nor I are making this decision, Ivar." Freya said, crossing her arms over her chest. "You could also be a bit gentler. It wouldn't hurt you."

As he hobbled away, he asked, "What if I don't want to? Don't force me to be someone I am not."

While returning to the settlement, Freya grunted frustratedly and passed him by.

While following the girl, Ivar grunted something under his breath.

Freya went to the settlement, but she wasn't interested in returning to the Great Hall.

She disappeared into the crowd as soon as she crossed the main gates.

__________________________________

The moment Aslaug saw her son walking into the house, she snapped, "Where have you been? The two of you were absent for several hours. It's supposed to be a walk!" She exclaimed. "Where is Freya?"

"I have no idea. I am not her father. She's probably fucking somewhere with some normal man, just like any normal woman would." Ivar replied as he passed Aslaug. "Now, leave me alone."

"What do you mean you have no idea? She is going to be your wife soon, you should keep her safe and close." Aslaug scolded him.

"I'm a cripple. How am I supposed to keep any woman close?! Even our fucking thrall didn't want to be involved with me! I'm nothing. Just like my father."

Sigurd laughed, playing with a wooden cup as he sat in front of a fire. "I'm sure if you act like a man for once, she will stay with you by herself."

Aslaug sighed deeply and rubbed the bridge of her nose. "The two of you were doing so well. She will be your wife. Shouldn't you really try to make it work?"

Ivar growled, throwing his crutch on the floor and crawling throughout the chamber. "I don't need a wife. I think maybe you should start planning Sigurd's life? And not mine!" He screamed.

Sigurd rolled his eyes. "You are always so dramatic. I would have run away too if I were that girl."

"Enough." Aslaug growled at Sigurd who just shrugged his shoulders.

Ivar locked himself in his bedroom.

Though he hated to feel that way, he had a mental pain that was so intense that he almost felt a physical pain in his chest. A single tear rolled down his cheek as he leaned back against the wall.

__________________________________

Freya was hurt and angry as well. His behaviour really pissed her off. She did indeed try her best for him.

The girl found a nice place to sit near the market. She was able to eat an apple in peace. Thankfully, she still had enough coins to purchase one for herself.

Suddenly, a strong hand caressed her neck, caressing the crook of her shoulder. "Our gods will bring us together again, isn't that so?"

Perhaps you just like to follow girls around?” Freya asked and looked up at Bjørn. “Don't you have better things to do?”

"Saw you sitting here, all alone. As for the gentleman I am, I decided to verify if you're fine."

"No, I am not fine at all." She huffed angrily before biting into the apple.

His palm moved to remove a lock of her hair from her cheek as he sat next to her. "What's wrong?"

As she looked at her bruised hand, she muttered, "My soon-to-be husband is wrong. He behaves as he does and he is surprised when I snap back."

"He did this to you?"

"He grabbed me too hard. That's all." She shrugged.

"You should drop this agreement. You're a free woman, until you marry him."

"I am not. Everything is set..." Freya sighed heavily. "My father brought me here when I was a free woman. Now, I will become Ivar the Boneless' wife."

Bjørn was bold with his actions.

He wrapped his arm gently around her waist. He leaned forward a little. "If you want to be saved, just say it." He whispered into her ear, brushing his lips against her earlobe.

It really annoyed Freye to see him so close, so loudly she growled. "Oh, really? And how would you do that?" She asked, frowning.

"A Ragnarsson who is not crippled would be a better match for you." He simply replied after getting up. "Think about it."

Freya watched him with her eyebrow raised. Having another Ragnarsson hope that she will warm his bed was the last thing she wanted right now.

Bjørn left her all alone.

The girl sighed and stood up to return to the Great Hall. She wanted to go to bed, even though it wasn't the middle of the day yet.

__________________________________

Aslaug smiled when she saw Freya entering the Great Hall. As she walked up to the girl she said, "Oh Freya, thank gods. I was growing worried ever since Ivar returned alone."

Freyea smiled a little. "I am alright. Really."

The Queen cupped her cheeks. She said, "Relax now. If you need anything, just let me know."

Freya nodded and decided to join Ubbe at the table. Girl smiled at him, sitting down. "Hello.'

"Hi," Ubbe responded, staring at her intently as he bit into a piece of chicken leg.

She nodded with a soft smile as she said, "Enjoy your meal."

Ubbe moved a plate filled with chicken towards her. "þakka."

Freya blinked and shook her head. Though she appreciated the offer, she was not hungry. "No, no. Thank you, really. Have you seen Ivar? He made it back here, right?"

“As soon as he got back, he headed to his room. He seemed angry."

Freya got up and strolled straight to Ivar's room after nodding her head. She knocked on the door as soon as she found it. door. No response was received. A frown appeared on her face as she entered the room.

Wrapped tightly in furs and cuddling his pillow, Ivar slept peacefully. Dreaming of the only thing he was sure he would never be able to have - fatherhood - he heard the sound of his children's feet, of their laughter.

And he was so handsome as he slept, that steady heart, those steady breaths, more than enough to make everyone fall in love with him all over again.

She watched him for a short moment, then quietly closed the door before walking closer to the bed.

Ivar looked calm and sweet for once. Then she gently stroked his hair as she sat down on the bed. She felt terrible about making things worse.

At first, he didn't react, being fully asleep. But as she continued to stroke him, he rolled his head, leaning into the touch. While Ivar slowly opened his eyes and breathed back, he stared up at her without blinking.

Her hand moved away and she smiled awkwardly. The girl said quietly, "I am sorry... I didn't mean to scare you or wake you up."

"It's fine.” He replied, slowly rolling to his back, hissing a little.

She worriedly asked, "Are you okay? Do you need anything? Should I ask your mother to get someone for you?"

"Easy." He asked her. "It's fine. Nothing happens. Cool down."

Although Freya didn't want to risk it, she bit inside her cheek and nodded. "But... Are you sure? If you are in pain, I can bring someone or something to help you. It won't be a problem."

"It's fine." He assured, turning his head away from her. "What do you want, Freya?"

She quickly explained, "I wanted to see how you're doing, Ivar. Make sure you're fine."

"It's unnecessary, Freya. I'm always fine and good."

"Ivar... I am so sorry."

"You don't have to be sorry. You've done nothing wrong."

Laying down, she placed her head on his shoulder. I rarely do that. I really shouldn't. I am yours. No one else's. Such a situation should never occur. He wasn't worth my time."

"Just so you know, I don't blame you and I don't have any hard feelings toward you." Ivar assured, cocking his brow slowly when she placed her head on his shoulder. "You are a healthy, young woman. Your purpose is to become a mother one day, to give a life. It's in you, even if you aren't aware of it yet. With me, the grief will be the only experience you will have."

After shaking her head, she nuzzled his neck while cupping his cheek. "No matter what happens, I want to experience it by your side."

"Look at you. You're young and adorable. All men are losing their heads over you. And here I am, a crippled Viking. Do you realise how ridiculous it sounds? A Viking who is a cripple."

She sighed. "None of it matters to me. When you aren't so angry, you are a really nice person and I want to be with someone like that."

The man replied, "But that's not who I am." He said, "I'm vicious. Angry. Raging."

"Oh, Ivar. I know you aren't like this. You are so much more." She looked at him and smiled.

He closed his eyes and replied, "You don't know me.".

As Freya kissed his cheek, she whispered, "So let me get to know you."

He didn't react. But seemingly enjoyed her lips being pressed to his clean shaved cheek.

Freya hummed quietly and continued to kiss his soft skin, soon moving the kisses to his neck.

He turned his head to her. "What do you think you're doing?"

"I am kissing your neck. You don't like it?"

"I do.” He replied honestly.

A small giggle was heard from her and she returned to kissing his neck.

He let her go further. "You should marry my brother."

Freya sighed against his neck. "I was brought here to marry you, not anyone else. It was already set in stone. Nothing could change their minds."

His right hand moved to her shoulder and slipped to the back of her neck where he stroked her. "If we protest together, they'll have to change their mind."

"You really don't want me as your wife?" Freya asked.

His fingers danced up and down her neck as he did not reply.

Her smile made him look at her as she cupped his cheek. It took courage for her to touch his lips.

It was the sweetness of passion, a million loving thoughts condensed into a moment.

Freye soon backed away. As she gently rubbed his chest, she said, "Let's not ruin something we promised. Is that okay with you?"

Ivar ran his hand through his thick, stiff hair. "Yes."

Freya could not contain her laughter. "You are good when it comes to talking with a girl."

He rolled his eyes. "I'm not, I must admit. I still have time to learn."

"I will help you." She smiled.

Anxiety thoughts were like a horde of soldiers running through the battlefield, faster and faster. And Ivar felt very anxious at that moment. "We'll see how it ends." He rested his hand on the curve of her hip.

"Ivar, I can feel your heart beating like the heart of a scared rabbit. What's wrong, you can tell me." She whispered into his ear.

"Nothing. I'm not a good man, we both know it and we both are aware where it might lead. I don't want to hurt you, but on the other hand, this is who I am and I can’t just deny it."

"You? Not a good man? Why?" She asked surprised.

"I thought you're aware after today's outburst."

Freya laughed and shook her head. "Ivar. This? Really? You have no idea how many times my father snapped at me. One outburst doesn't make you a bad man."

"You'll realise this one day."

He closed his eyes, enjoying her presence.

"Don't be so sure.” She whispered, kissing his cheek gently.

He opened one of his eyes, glaring up at her face.

Freya looked back at him and simply smiled.

His hand travelled to her cheek, his thumb gently brushed her lower lip. He moved a little, pressing his lips to hers. She tasted like the finest ale.

Freya let out a soft, happy moan and gently kissed him back, wrapping arms around his neck.

Ivar opened his eyes a little to have a brief look at her face.

She looked like an angel. Long lashes, honey hair and honey skin. That girl was sweet from sun-kissed lips to soulful gentleness.

He gently deepened the kiss, trying to not forget what Ubbe had taught him about kissing.

She hummed gladly, accepting the kiss fully. Freya was actually surprised that he was such a good kisser.

When their lips, once connected in a shared, sensual kiss parted, Ivar looked into her eyes. "You're a good kisser."

Freya hummed, nodding her head while biting her lip. "You aren't so bad either."

Ivar's eyes didn't move; they observed you carefully.

Reading a face was using his intuition to see the real person, to allow his longing heart to see below their mask and respond with grace and tact to their real needs.

Freya's face was lightened up with a tiny smile dancing in the corners of her lips. Her beautiful blue eyes sparkling, her little nose twitching a little as a brief laughter escaped her lips.

Ivar chuckled. "I've been practising a lot.” He replied sweetly.

Girl nodded and watched him. Ivar was handsome just the way he was, even if he didn't think so at all. There was more to him than just legs and Freya could see this.

There were still many hours left before the night. As much as Freya wanted they couldn't spend the day in bed. Girl got a nice idea. "Ivar? You know how to use a bow?” she asked curiously.

"Do I know how to use a bow? This is such a random question but yes, I do, why?," Ivar replied, frowning a little.

Freya gasped loudly. "Could you teach me?! I kind of know how to use it but I am not the best at it."

"You want to learn how to use a bow?," He asked. "What for? You're a lady."

She frowned. "Ladies fight as well. I want to be able to fight! How else will I help my husband during a raid?"

He blinked. Ivar was at a loss for words. "You're not only soft-hearted, you're tough enough to stay that way. That takes a kind of bravery that I'm still processing," Ivar replied in the end. "I need to admit that you're a great surprise to me. I'm lucky enough to have a woman with ambitions by my side. Have you ever fought before?"

Freya giggled and shrugged. "I have three older brothers. Life wasn't easy and most of our play time ended with stick fights," she explained. "Once I got older they helped me learn a thing or two. Just to be sure their little sister is safe. I am the youngest child."

The youngest and the cutest at the same time, Ivar thought to himself, but he didn't say it aloud.

He considered her words. "If you want, we can go to the woods to have training."

Freya nodded eagerly. "Yes, pretty please. I would love you to teach me."

She immediately sat up and then got up quickly. "Let's go!" Girl jumped in place.

Ivar blinked once again. "Let me get ready. Wait in the throne chamber."

"No... Can I help you with anything? I... As a good soon to be wife, I should know what my husband's needs are."

"I need to put the braces on," he replied softly.

Freya straightened her back and nodded. "Tell me what to do and I will follow."

"Ahm, Freya, I can do this on my own, don't worry about your little, pretty head."

Freya shook her head and kneeled in front of the bed. "I want to know what my husband needs if I ever have to help him.'

As much as he didn't condone this, with a loud sight he gave her a nod.

Ivar reached to get the braces. "You need to be careful, extremely careful. You need to know that my legs tend to hurt a lot."

Freya bit her lips and nodded, taking the braces from him. After taking a deep breath she started to gently put the braces on.

He sat there stiffened, almost forgetting to breathe; he was mentally ready for the pain wave that would wash all over him if she would not be gentle enough.

Freya worked gently and carefully, making sure to not cause him any pain. This was the last thing she wanted. After a moment she looked up at him. "Everything's fine..?"

He was looking down at her with his eyes wide opened, his breath held back. Ivar nodded, slowly exhaling. "Yes. Yes, you're doing a very good job down there."

She smiled proudly and continued her work to soon put the braces on his other leg as well. Freya honestly felt happy that she didn't hurt him at all.

Ivar reached hand out and put it to her cheek, gently rubbing it with his thumb. "Ágeatavel, þakka.” He said quietly.

It was the very first time when someone was truly kind to him. He wasn't sure how to behave. He wasn't sure what to tell her and how to express his gratitude.

When he made sure his palms were gloved, Ivar got up and offered his hand to Freya. "I can also teach you how to use an axe."

Freya grabbed his hand and happily followed him, smiling at everyone who dared to give them a weird look. She really wanted to build a bond with him and apparently she indeed found a way to do so.

Ivar stopped in the throne chamber to collect his lighter fur. He also attached his favourite axe to a sheath.

Freya grabbed her own fur and then simply watched Ivar getting ready. She was so excited for those lessons. "Can we go?"

"You two are going out again? Will this end up in another fight?” Aslaug asked as soon as she noticed Ivar putting on the fur.

Ivar smiled briefly at his mother. "Hopefully it won't. Don't worry, mother. And don't wait for us. I want to take Freya to the tavern later."

Freya blinked but nodded. "I will make sure we are safe. No need to worry, my queen."

Aslaug sighed and nodded. "Fine then. Just don't get her drunk, Ivar."

"So I can get my ass drunk? Thanks, mother." He teased Aslaug with a little giggle. "Freya, come on."

She nodded and followed him.

Ivar limped slowly through the settlement, leading her to the secret place where he used to train with his brothers. He hoped Sigurd or Hvitserk wouldn't be there.

Girl this time followed him without stopping but she still was giving a mine glances to anyone who dared to giggle or anything.

Of course Sigurd was there. Freye didn't like it because she could already feel the trouble coming. "Oh, Freya! It's so good to see you again!” Sigurd immediately got up from his spot under a huge tree, where he was polishing the blade of his axe. "It's such a shame you have a trail behind you," he added as soon as he spotted his crippled brother.

Ivar didn't reply, instead passed Sigurd by, of course poking him with his shoulder.

Freye huffed and passed by Sigurd as well, trying her best to ignore him.

She was growing tired of his behaviour, all she wanted was to spend some time with Ivar.

She wasn't fast enough; Sigurd caught her by her wrist, pulling her closer, letting his free hand wrap around her waist. "Look at you, such a pretty girl."

"Let me go!" She growled annoyed. "I came here with Ivar. Take your filthy hands off of me!”

"Oh, so resistant.” He chuckled.

His laughter was yet cut off by an axe flying right next to his face, sticking in the branch. It was Ivar's axe.

Freya blinked surprised and looked at Ivar yet she frowned since Sigurd's grip didn't loosen at all. "I warn you, better let me go."

Sigurd was looking hard in her eyes, then let go of her wrist. "So you've chosen. You want to be his cum sack. Fine then but do not come to me if he won't satisfy you."

She finally had enough and simply punched Sigurd in the face, hissing softly as she moved away. "Shut up finally! I have enough of you, by being such a shitty person you will never get any normal girl to like you. Only cheap whores catch an eager cock like you." Freya growled, massaging her palm.

Ivar limped closer to her, wrapping his arm around her shoulders. "You heard the girl, don't ya?" He asked with eyebrow cocked, looking at Sigurd who fell to the ground.

Other brother got up and spat on the ground right next to Freya's feet. "Whore."

"Say it once more and I'll cut your tongue off.” Ivar informed Sigurd, remaining stoical.

Freya crossed arms over her chest, his words didn't offend her at all. "You better go. Find some woman with no taste who will even want to fuck with you. We are too busy to deal with you, right love?"

"Exactly." Ivar pulled her closer to offer her a lovely kiss.

Sigurd growled loudly. "This is not over yet, Ivar." Then he left the two.

"Like what would he do? Growl at us?" Freya asked, looking at Ivar.

"I have no idea what he meant."

Freya shrugged and clapped her hands. "Who cares. Let's get to what we were planning, I can't wait!"

__________________________________

Ivar showed her many things, from how to use a bow to how to throw an axe.

Freya laughed loudly when the arrow hit the exact spot she was aiming at. She was really mastering her skills. "Did you see that?!”

"Yes, Freya. Good shot." Ivar praised her with a grin on his lips as he sat on a thick branch of a fallen tree.

"Axe probably won't be my best weapon but I am getting good with the bow.” She said proudly. "I will be able to join you during the raids!"

"Join me during raids, you say?" Ivar asked, raising his eyebrow. "You'll never go with me."

Freya looked at him. "What... Why not?”

He measured her features with his glance carefully. "You're too pretty and too precious to be put in such a dangerous situation."

She blushed, hearing his words. Blinking from time to time, she stared at him. "But... I was sure you would love your wife to be with you while raiding distant lands..."

"I'd love my wife to be safe, ruling the kingdom while I'm gone to distant shores, nursing our children.” He said and blushed a little.

Freya blushed a little as well and smiled sweetly. "Oh, really? Nursing our children, you say?" She hummed while walking to him.

"Nursing our children,I say.” Ivar nodded, his face straight as he spoke. "Every marriage has a purpose. It's about giving new life in the end, isn't it, dear Freya?"

She walked to him closer and gently moved hand through his hair. "I think it is. But I was sure you hate me and you don't really want me as your wife or mother for your children."

"I didn't say such a thing.” He shrugged, pretending to not remember about him saying all of the bad stuff.

She hummed and hugged him, stroking his hair lovingly. "In that case... I cannot wait to nurse our children."

He got sad instantly. With a sadness written on his face, Ivar looked up at her. "You do realise I can't give life, right?”

Freya hummed and kissed his head gently. "You don't know that for sure, Ivar."

"Everyone says that.” He reminded her. "Besides, look at me. A crippled viking? I barely can walk. How am I supposed to get you pregnant?"

"Just because people say something doesn't mean it's true. We will see how it is and who knows. Maybe you'll get me pregnant." Freya shrugged a little. "And then I will nurse a lot of our children."

He smiled sadly. "Yeah... Don't you have a feeling you're going to lose all of your best years by the side of the cripple? It must be terrifying."

Freya gently smacked him on the head. "Stop that, I swear to Odin himself.”

__________________________________

He was supposed to be married on that day. He was supposed to be married to the woman his parents had arranged.

But Freya proved to be quite the opposite of the conservative woman he had expected.

He considered Freya to be his soulmate. A partner in crime and his closest friend.

Grabbing Freya's cheeks, Helga exclaimed, "You look so cute!"

As Freya listened to her words, she couldn't help but giggle. Her nerves were frayed. The girl really did fall in love with Ivar, but once that day is over, she will be bound to him until the end; what if he was so kind just up until the wedding? What will happen on the wedding night though?

"Of course she is. After all, Freya is my son's wife." Aslaug smiled, braiding Freya's hair.

In the meantime, Ivar was at the seaside, where the wood altar was built.

In a white silk tunic, matching material pants, and with his hair brushed, Ivar sat on a chair brought to him by Hvitserk.

As Ubbe ruffled Ivar's hair and grinned at him, he said, "Look at you. If I didn't know you, I would call you an angel."

"Stop it.'' The younger brother grunted, pushing Ubbe's hand off his head. "I brushed it. You'll destroy my hairdo."

"You did? It looks as messy as always." Hvitserk giggled. "Freya will run away as soon as she sees this mess. Or you."

Ivar frowned, looking at Hvitserk. Then his eyes moved to Ubbe. "Tell him to stop," he demanded.

Ubbe rolled his eyes and poked Hvitserk's shoulder. "Quit it. Your brother gets married today. Behave."

"Oh you know I am joking but we all know that mother set it up. There is nothing... Real in this relationship," Hvitserk shrugged. "I have no idea why he is so excited about this."

"Why?"

"What do you mean why?” Hvitserk asked, looking at his younger brother. "You really think she loves you? Freya was forced to attend this wedding."

Ivar clenched teeth, huffing angrily. "And what do you know about love, dear brother? She loves me and I love her."

Hvitserk summarised, "It's her duty, not her will, Ivar. I doubt you know much about love either. Oh! There she is!"

Ivar turned his head so he could see Freya.

Immediately, his heart beat faster, his blood ran cold through his veins, and the only thing he could do was release a gasp.

As Freya wore a long white dress and had her hair braided neatly, she looked like a goddess.

As a result of instinct, Ivar was compelled to get up from his chair and walk to her. Despite shaking all over his body, he managed to pull himself up, leaning against the back of the chair.

Freye smiled, seeing him. She felt so happy that this day finally came, even if she was really scared Freya couldn't wait. She gasped a little, seeing him standing up proudly.

"Ivar, you shouldn't," Ubbe whispered to his brother quietly. "Sit down, you can't put so much on your legs. Your eyes are blue."

Ivar simply waved his hand at Ubbe. "Don't tell me how to live my life, you ain't my mother, Ubbe."

She took a deep breath, improved her dress and started to walk to finally meet with Ivar at the altar. Girl smiled and cupped his cheek. "You should sit down, love," She whispered, looking at him worriedly. In the past few weeks she learned a lot about Ivar and anything that has to do with his health, including his blue eyes. "You will be in pain later."

With his eyes widening and lips parted, he forgot to breathe; this became a habit of his when he was with her.

Freya blinked and glanced at Ubbe over Ivar's shoulder. "Could you please sit him down?" she asked.

Without saying a word, Ubbe tapped Ivar's shoulder and nodded. It's time to sit.

Ivar obeyed with his eyes glued to his soon-to-be wife.

Freya smiled sweetly at him and gently kissed his forehead. She whispered, "Now... We can bond in front of our Gods.".

Let me take a moment to collect myself. I should stand by your side."

Her hand was raised so she could kiss it gently. "I am so happy."

There were too many emotions accumulating within him, and he was shaking all over.

Freye smiled at him as she asked, "So let's start?"

A tiny smirk danced across the corners of Ivar's lips as he replied, "Yes."

__________________________________

The wedding only lasted a few minutes. During the ceremony, the prophetess who conducted the ceremony exchanged rings, they were united by blood, and she pronounced them husband and wife, for good or for bad.

Once they returned to the settlement, they were greeted by a cheering crowd, led by queen Aslaug. Of course his brothers prepared a feast for them.

Freya was genuinely surprised by the size of the feast. Although she expected a feast, she did not expect it to be so large. Waving to her father and her older brothers, the girl giggled. "This feast is so huge, Ivar! I never expected this!’

She followed her newly married husband, stumbling a bit behind him. My beautiful Freya, I hope you enjoy your day today."

She assured him, "I will certainly do so. A whole feast by my husband's side? This will be better than anything else.".

Ivar waited politely until she sat first when they reached the spots set by thralls.

Freya greeted her older brothers. The men hugged her tightly, giving Ivar a disapproving look. It was good that Freya got married, but why to the cripple?

Prior to joining Ivar, the girl greeted the queen and Helga as well.

After she joined Ivar, she asked softly, "Shall we begin that feast, love?”

He nodded, "I'd like that."

She smiled, taking her horn and raising it up high, "Let's not wait and start the feast, dear friends!"

Seeing her family's glances, Ivar sat slowly. As her husband, he knew they were unhappy. The girl could do better.

As Freya noticed that he was looking at her brothers, she frowned. Touching his shoulder, she asked, "Ivar?".

He turned his head towards her. "Yes?"

When he turned to her, she immediately used the opportunity and pressed her lips to his.

While she was kissing him, Ivar caught himself looking at her face.

Shortly thereafter, he closed his eyes and slipped his tongue past her lips, returning the kiss.

She hummed into the kiss and cupped his cheek. This was to show everyone that she is not ashamed of her husband even in the slightest.

He blinked as their lips parted. "That was something, Freya.."

"Something special, just for my husband." She giggled.

He smiled at her, "It seems that your brothers aren't pleased with me."

"They were not satisfied with anyone who came near me. Honestly? When my father brought me here, I was surprised that they didn't join forces to kick the asses of anyone who wanted to be near me."

"I can fight any of them for you," Ivar said, gesturing at the thrall to pour him more wine.

Freya laughed softly, "You don't have to, love. We don't want any bloodshed or conflict, right?"

“There's something fun about blood spilling on the ground, isn't there?”

"I don't think so, love. Once they get to know you, they will stop." She assured him.

Ivar nodded, "Fine then. We'll spill the blood of our enemies someday."

"You will spill the blood of our enemies and conquer all the distant lands, and I will be here, nursing our children."

"That's my wife." He smiled, trying to cover the blush crawling on his cheeks by raising a chalice with wine up to his lips.

"That should be interesting.” Freya said to Ivar quietly, observing how Hvitserk started to pick on her oldest brother.

Ivar also focused his gaze on Hvitserk. "I bet my bracelet he'll get his ass kicked tonight. Finally."

"Let's watch." She giggled.

Meantime, the man glanced over his shoulder at the stranger that kept bothering him. "And who are you, little boy?"

"Hvitserk Ragnarsson, prince of Kattegat." The young man replied, playing with the knife he held in his hands. "I don't like the way you and your companions are looking at me and my brothers." He pointed to the table where all the Ragnarssons were sitting.

"That's what eyes are for. We look whenever we want." One man said, shrugging, and the others nodded. "This is our first time here, so we are curious."

"I welcome you here, but please stop glaring at us." He gestured towards the sitting man. “Were you taught any manners?"

"Manners have nothing to do with this, little man." The oldest guy replied, his eyes widening as others laughed.

Hvitserk glanced back at his brothers and Sigurd nodded to encourage him to behave properly.

Hvitserk simply pushed the man's shoulder as he said, "I don't like when you stare."

The man stood up right away, he was easily twice the size of Hvitserk. The two others followed. They were not much shorter than their brother. “Then let's resolve this matter as men and women. Because you are the only whiny bitch complaining that we are staring."

Hvitserk reached for the hatchet attached to his belt immediately, being unfazed by the man's height.

With just one gesture, Ivar silenced almost everyone in the chamber. "Enough. Those of you who still have business should go outside, cool down, and only then return."

As Freya nuzzled the shoulder of Ivar, she replied, "Yes, that would be nice. We don't want any fights at our wedding feast."

"We're just fooling around here, my dear sister. We won't ruin your day." The men laughed.

Ivar looked at them with a cold, careful glance. Any trouble would be just the last thing they needed.

Hvitserk nodded at the huge man and patted his shoulder. "I was just messing around with you."

"I like this one!" the tall man laughed and wrapped his arm around Hvitserk. "If everybody is like that, we might even accept Freya's husband."

A nasty smile appeared on Ivar's face in response, after he heard the man's words.

Laughing, Freya watched as her brothers stepped forward and joined Ragnar's sons. "I really expected a fight to happen."

"My troll brother Hvitserk's strange charm attracted them this time, thank goodness."

“I knew they would get along just fine. Just like I did with you." She hummed, resting her head on Ivar's shoulder. "You know what?"

"Hmmm?” He murmured, looking down at the girl.

Her excitement was obvious as she said, "I am glad we are finally together for real!".

He touched her nose. "Surprisingly, I am glad too. I have been stressed for a few days."

"It's funny to think back on how you treated me in the beginning. You threatened to kill any girl that came near you." Freya let out a sharp breath.

"As you can see, I got rid of my stupidity rather quickly." Ivar replied.

She took his hand in hers and said, "I hope you did, my dear husband. I am so lucky to have Ivar the Boneless as my husband."

His blue eyes were open wide, glistening in the light filling the chamber. She could easily conclude he was happy.

His fingers massaged her hand as he squeezed it.

As Freya smiled gently, she nuzzled and kissed him on the cheek, and enjoyed his presence. She stayed at Ivar's side throughout the entire feast. She did not go dancing or chatting with anyone. All she wanted was to be with Ivar.

Toward the evening, Ivar and Freya decided it was time to leave the feast and rest. After leaving the crowd behind, Freya giggled as she flopped on the special bed that was prepared for them. It was filled with soft furs and flower petals.

The man blinked twice as he peeked inside the room before closing the door behind him as he stepped inside. As he slowly limped to the edge of the bed, he commented, "I don't know what you told the thralls, but they did a decent job." Putting his crutches aside, he gazed at the girl. "I'm in awe of your beauty tonight."

A sweet smile spread across Freya's face. "You look so handsome tonight. I am the happiest woman alive." She said and added, "I never imagined I would be that happy."

A smile spread across his face as he undid the stripes of his tunic that had been neatly wrapped around his neck. He removed it slowly, hesitantly.

She climbed up on her knees and moved closer to him so that she could gently help him undress.

When he felt her hands suddenly wandering down his chest, he blushed. "þakka."

Her fingers grazed the strings on the front of her dress as she sat next to him.

"Would you mind helping me take it off?" She asked innocently.

He blinked and felt as if the blood was floating away from his face, leaving him pale. With his eyes fixed on hers, he reached for the strings, untying them quickly. "Very well," he whispered.

"Just take it off." Freya whispered, staring deeply into those stunning blue eyes of his.

He swallowed hard and cleared his throat before he asked, "Like, completely?"

He assumed that she would probably have doubts about him and could think negatively of him because of his silliness.

Her eyes widened. "Yes please. It's too beautiful to sleep in, and I don't want to ruin it."

After nodding, he put palms on her shoulders and slipped his fingers under the fabric of the dress, gently pushing it down her shoulders, revealing her chest and belly.

Her breasts caught his attention before he could think. When he realised he was staring, he cleared his throat. "Fyrirgef..."

"It's all yours, Ivar. You can look, touch or whatever else you choose." She took his hand and placed it on her breast as she spoke. "You don't have to be sorry." She laughed. "It's all yours."

His eyes widened and he forgot to breathe once more. "Freya..." He whispered in the end, taking back his hand. "I don't want to disgrace you in any way."

"You do not disgrace me, love. You are my husband now. You have the right to watch me and touch me like this." She said softly.

His eyes wandered again down her body as he asked, "Can I kiss you...?"

"No need to ask. Those lips are yours now. You can do anything you want." She hummed.

In a tender kiss, he slipped his tongue past her lips as he put his palms to her cheeks.

Feya moaned into the kiss and returned it eagerly.

He hummed softly in the kiss.

She wrapped her arms around his neck, moving closer to him.

He left her lips and moved his kisses to her neck, gently trailing the tip of his tongue down her pulse point.

Then he moved his kisses down her neck, tracing the tip of his tongue down her pulse point.

"Oh, Ivar..." Freya rubbed her hands into his hair and moaned before biting her lip.

The man cupped her breast in one hand while his other rested on her hip. The man moved his lips down her neck to touch her clavicle while exclaiming, "You're so gorgeous."

She agreed with him wholeheartedly. "Gorgeous and only yours. Your touch feels so good. I love you."

He paused and looked her in the eye. "All mine."

The promise I made in front of the gods is true, Ivar. I'm yours."

Ivar smiled at her. "I'm tired. Aren't you, love?"

She placed herself on his lap and rolled her hips a bit as she frowned. As she gently pushed his chest to make him lie down, she stated, "I am not tired. My husband just got me all hot and bothered. Do you really expect me to go to sleep now?"

Her push made him blink. Still, he put his hands on her hips, gazing at her breasts while stroking her thighs. "Woah, Freya!" He replied, licking his lips. "You're stunning."

She moved towards his neck and began kissing him. Soon she was kissing his chest. "I already heard that, love." She laughed.

"Someone's pretty eager here.” He teased.

She whispered, kissing his belly, "Thank you for making me. Thanks for your touch, your words..."

A sharp intake of breath accompanied him as he tilted his head back, resting his head on the bed. "Freya... maybe we should not do this... I'm not skilled."

"Neither am I..." She confessed, nibbling on the skin of his abdomen.

His lips curled into a smile. "You are such a she-wolf, aren't you!?" He chuckled, slipping his hands into her hair. "You may not be skilled, but you act bravely."

Freya shrugged. “Often, I watched my brothers and their lovers.”

Ivar cocked his brow and propped himself up with his elbows.

Freya frownd. "What?"

"What did you mean by that?"

“Is it so hard to understand? You never pampered your brother to watch him play around with girls?” Asked Freya, raising her eyebrows.

He felt blush hitting his cheeks. "I actually did..."

She sighed, "This is how I... Learned stuff... I never had anyone explain it to me..."

"Yeah, I understand. I heard filthy stories from my brothers or I saw them in action," he smiled. "I'll even be honest now. My brothers arranged for me to meet Margarethe, one of our thralls. They just took me to this hidden place that they prepared for us. They wanted to make me a man," he chuckled at the memory, but his smile quickly disappeared. "I've always joked that no girl would want me because of these," he pointed at his legs. “I don't think my manhood works as it should... Because, you know…”

Freya listened to him, resting her head gently against his legs. Nodding her head she looked at him. "Did you... Love that girl?"

"No." He replied simply, shaking his head a bit, "But you know, they all had her. I didn't want to make myself look foolish. I wanted to challenge myself. It didn't work."

"You can't really challenge yourself when it comes to love. Maybe that's why it didn't work," She whispered as she gently touched his leg. "How do you feel about me?"

He stared down at her. "Good. Comfortable. Relaxed."

"Maybe it will work this time." She smiled at him.

While humming, Freya slowly undid his pants. "Let your wife work, you just need to relax."

"Honey... No, that's not a good idea. I don't want you to look at them." He replied, shaking all over his body.

Freya hushed him. As she smiled, she pushed his pants enough to release his cock. "I know you don't want me to see your legs, but trust me and let me do this."

His head rolled back as he inhaled deeply. "I don't want to disappoint my beautiful wife."

"You would let me down if you pushed me away tonight." She whispered and wrapped her hand around his member. I was surprised at how hard it became. "Would you look at that?"

As soon as he felt something, he opened his eyes wide and realised that it was her delicate hand wrapped around his manhood. Ivar propped himself up on elbows again, looking at her with wide eyes once again. "Impossible..."

Freya looked up and chuckled as her thumb played with his tip. "You see, love? Maybe you just married a woman who is a goddess in a human disguise." She teased and then licked a long strip from the base to the tip of his cock.

As he gasped loudly, he rolled his head back, almost moaning at the intensity of her touch.

As Freya hummed, she remembered what she saw in the past and tried to imitate it here.

Her lips encircled his tip, sucking it gently.

He undid her braids with his hands slipping into her hair. "Freya." He mumbled quietly, looking up at the ceiling, enjoying the pleasant sensation he was experiencing. "This is impossible... You must be a goddess."

"Maybe I indeed am, who knows, love." She whispered, looking up at him before swallowing his member at once.

"Freya." Ivar whispered in a tiny voice, just like a kitten. "You spin my head round."

While Freya purred around his cock, she continued her work on him.

"Leave it." He whispered. "Please. I want you here. I need you here, by my side."

With a loud pop, she pulled him out of her mouth and smiled, licking her lips. The girl moved up, kissing every inch of his body until she reached his lips.

As he wrapped his strong arms around her waist, he kissed her desperately, pulling her as close as he could. His palms stroked over the soft curves hidden beneath her dress, which hadn't been completely removed yet.

Freya returned the kiss eagerly but soon backed away. He was now fully straddled, and she took her dress off with a sweet smile.

"Oh, my Gods!" Ivar whispered quietly, barely moving his lips as he did so; his hands found their way instantly to her round hips, which he grabbed firmly, enjoying how perfectly they fit in his hands.

Freya giggled and reached up to scratch the skin on his chest with her fingertips. "I feel someone is happy." She claimed.

While he admired her body, he was trying to catch his breath.

She smiled, cupping his cheeks. "Are you alive?" She asked, "Or did I kill my husband on a wedding night?"

"I've never felt so alive." He said, slipping his hand between her thighs.

She teased, "Oh, really? You overall seem a little lifeless."

He cocked his brow. His hand found a sweet, hot spot on her while he murmured, "I am not as skilled as you are."

She reminded him, "I did not do this, just watched." I am not skilled either, she told him.

As his thumb gently rubbed her clitoris, Ivar said, "But your confidence lends you some credibility. Do you like it?"

Freya moaned quietly and bit her lip, nodding her head eagerly.

He cleared his throat, whispering, "I have never been so close to a woman before. You'll have to guide me." Meanwhile, he used his index finger to gently spread her pussy lips and tease her entrance.

She smiled. "Yet... somehow you know where to put your fingers. I am sure you know what to do. Just don't stop yourself, my dear husband."

His other hand caressed the beautiful smoothness of her chest, moving up and down it. Meanwhile, one of his fingers slipped into her wet core, teasing it further.

Then, Freya began slowly riding his fingers, moving her hips as Ivar's hand was caressing her chest.

"So eager, aren't you?" He asked with a raspy voice.

He pulled his fingers out, covering her pussy in her own wetness. Shortly after, he took his manhood and lined it up with her entrance.

"So eager, aren't you, dear husband?” She teased him, using his own words against him.

Freya gently grasped his manhood and slid down it, moaning quietly at the strain. "Fuck..."

His eyes were fixed on her beautiful face covered in blush as he parted his lips.

Freya gasped and bit her lips hard, trying to take in the pain. Slowly, she moved up and down his shaft.

He whispered, "Hey, take it easy," as he scanned the exposed features of her body with a smirk. "You feel so good..."

Despite the pain, Freya moved her hips faster as she whispered, "But I want to please my husband."

As Ivar tightened his grip on her hips, he pressed her harder against his legs, making her unable to move. She tried to buck her hips as he said, "Wait. Wait. It's not about me, it's about us." He told her, cocking his brow. "As much as I would like to satisfy myself, I also want you to feel satisfied. Don't want you to feel pain."

When he pressed her down, Freya whimpered loudly. She could feel him deep inside.

As she looked down at him, she said, "I heard it was always painful, love, for the first time. I promise, it will pass soon. I just need to adjust." Freya assured him.

"I was told that, too." He added.

In order to give her some sensation, he gently rubbed circles on her clitoris. "You're so tight that I can't think straight."

Again, Freya moved up and down his manhood. She let out a soft sigh and smiled at him, feeling her walls gently relax around him. It became easier for her to move. "You are so big..."

Her warmness and wetness around his cock were enjoyed while he traced his hands along her waist. Ivar couldn't take his eyes off her. "I'm yours."

Freya gave him a soft smile, her hands touched his chest. "Look at you... You don't have any problems with your beautiful cock. You just needed the right person." She whispered.

"I needed a goddess, and Gods provided me with one in the human body."

"Yes... Yes!” Freya moaned, moving a bit faster. She could feel herself getting closer to her high. "Oh, my Gods...."

"Wait, love!" He again pulled on her hips a little, pressing her pussy to his crotch. "Let me do it properly. Let me try."

Freya bit her lip hard and nodded. "Of course, love."

She laid comfortably on Ivar's bed after being gently pushed off of him. After he slowly rolled on top of her, he pinned her down with his weight. He kissed her hungrily, helping Freya to wrap her legs around his waist. Her arms were pinned above her head by him after he detached his mouth from hers. Suddenly Ivar caught one of her nipples in his mouth, encircling it in warmth as his tongue flicked across it and then he bit down on it tenderly. Soon, he removed his mouth from Freya's breast and looked at her with lust clouding his eyes. He reached down towards his dick and placed it against her entrance. Ivar entered her roughly.

It now seemed as though Freya was praying, wailing praises for Ivar in a way that resembled a moan. Her fingers ran through his hair as she wrapped her arms around his neck.

Ivar grunted as he continued thrusting into Freya. He slammed into her roughly with his hands gripping her waist. "You're so hot, my beautiful wife." He grunted out.

A smile spread across his face as her nails raked over his back. "I'm going to make everyone within the Great Hall know to whom you belong."

Freya gave him a mischievous smile. "I BELONG TO IVAR THE BONELESS! THE GREATEST VIKING THERE IS!" She moaned as loudly as she could.

"That's my girl." Ivar praised as his eyes grew darker and he wasted no time in pulling her closer to him, smashing his full lips against hers as one of his palms slipped between their connected bodies to rub circles on her clitoris. "Cum for me, Freya." Ivar whispered as his thrusts became sloppy.

Frey smiled against his lips and kissed him deeply again. She could feel her walls tightening around him and soon she whimpered his name loudly, cumming all over his prick.

Freya rumbled with pleasure as Ivar held her tightly. He stiffened and buried his head in her shoulder. Ivar's thrusts became sloppier and he slammed into her three more times before he moaned and groaned loudly in pleasure while he milked her pussy with his warm seed. As he breathed heavily, Ivar whispered, "I love you very much." He held her against him and kissed her neck. Slowly, Ivar began to pull away from her.

Gasping and nuzzling him, she purred out of happiness. "I love you too... And who knows. Maybe soon there will be three of us..." Freya whispered.

He nodded with a smile, settling down by her side, lying comfortably on his back. "You think there is a chance? I was told all my life that a cripple cannot have children."

"They also said you can't fuck or be truly loved." Freya looked at him and giggled. "Just look at the mess you left between my legs."

Looking curiously between her legs, he propped himself on his elbows. "I must say I love this view."

She laughed and nodded. "Oh, I hope you do. It was our first time but it won't be our last."

He smirked proudly. "So you'll want to have sex with me more than once?"

A soft frown appeared on her face as she looked at him. "Why not?" She asked, confused.

"I am a disgusting cripple because of my legs."

"Ivar!" She sighed. "If I hear that again, I promise I will punch you."

As he sat up to find his pants, he joked, "You are threatening a cripple."

Grabbing his arm, she pulled him back down. "Let's just sleep." Freya smiled, pulling the fur to cover both of them.

Smiling at Freya, Ivar nodded. "Good." He let her place her head to his chest as his arm wrapped around her figure.