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

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.

♥ 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."

The Bear and the Raven || Ragnar x reader x Rollo

Summary: What will happen when the both brothers fall for you

Warnings: none

Words: 5166

Authors: Cass & Rouge

Request by: @porgsandtheirplace​​ OUR GIRL! ♥

You loved to fight.

Violence and blood were your elements. The act that gave you strength to lead the quiet life back in the settlement when your shield and axe hung on the wall awaiting another big battle.

Even if so-called normal life wasn't your thing, what could you do.

Even as a Lothbrok's shield maiden you deserved the rest to recover from whatever injuries you suffered in the previous battle.

Of course you were lucky enough to be more than just another warrior ready to spill the blood at Ragnar's order.

You were his closest friend, his and his older brother's. Thanks to this privilege, your ordinary days were never boring.

Rollo was practicing with his ax when Bjørn came to ask him for dinner.

"Uncle, the feast is on, and the only person missing among us is you," man's nephew claimed. "Give us the honor of having you in the Great Hall."

Rollo Sigurdsson, son of Sigurd Hring, fearsome Viking warrior, with an impulsive streak, offered the younger man a brief nod of his head. "Need to wash the sweat and dirt first. Let them know I'll attend anytime soon."

Bjørn put his palm to uncle's shoulder. "My father will be glad to see you."

Rollo's glance followed Bjørn who walked away rapidly, rushing back to the feast.

Despite the bandages tightly wrapped around your chest and the general discomfort they as well as wounds brought, you joined the big feast.

You never planned to miss it, even if your legs would be broken beyond healing you would crawl by yourself to the Great hall to celebrate the successful raid.

"HERE SHE IS! AXE IN THE CHEST!," Ragnar yelled loudly, raising his horn as soon as he spotted you enter the building.

If he wasn't your friend you would turn around and simply leave but you only opened your arm and shrugged.

"THAT'S ME!”

Bjørn raised his curved horn as well. "Skål, Y/N!"

Despite Ragnar being his father and role model, Bjørn saw many things Lothbrok did. Including falling for women. Rganar's success with women was pretty impressive, but on the other hand it's hard to say no to him, he was the Earl after all. A very successful and influential.

One of the men gave you a filled horn and laughed at that.

Of course this would happen, your fellow warriors won't let you stay sober today. Maybe it's not such a bad idea. Your body is screaming from the amount of pain it took a few hours ago.

"Skål!," You said loudly, raising a horn at Ragnar and Bjørn's direction.

They all were your little family. Taking a big sip of your drink, you sat down next Ragnar's son and smiled.

"So! Ironside, huh? You made this old aunt proud!," You joked, nudging Bjørn in his side with your elbow.

Bjørn laughed, rolling his head back and hiccuping. "Old aunt? You're only 19 winters old which makes you younger than me," he reminded playfully while nudging your side. "Look! Rollo!"

As he promised his nephew, Rollo stepped in the Great Hall, wrapped in thick furs with his hair pinned in a bun.

You laughed and hissed when he nudged your side.

"Careful Bjørn, I don't have an ironside," you reminded him and smiled, seeing Rollo joining you.

As soon as older Lothbrok sat down, Ragnar wrapped arms around your and his son’s shoulders. "Well! And I was worried you two won't even come to celebrate our victory," he muttered, resting his head on your shoulder.

Rollo observed his brother with concern and cleared his throat before speaking.

"Thus celebrate, my brother!"

Rollo's gaze slipped from Ragnar to you and he fixed it on your eyes.

"My two best people," Ragnar said proudly, looking at you and his brother. "And my son!," He added, moving to Bjørn.

You watched this and giggled.

"I have a feeling he started celebrating way before the feast even started. Can I help you, Rollo?," You asked with a charming smile when you felt his gaze on you.

"You look pretty," the older man claimed and instantly slipped his glance off you, focusing on his chalice.

Bjørn cocked his brow and leaned forward to rest his chin on your shoulder. "You caught his eye."

Rollo downed his mead and nudged his brother's side. "You drunk already? Where's the princess?"

You giggled and patted Bjørn's head on your shoulder. "As much as I'd love that. I am afraid that your uncle is just nice because he is worried I will break his nose with my shield. Like I did during one training,"

"My dear wife is somewhere. Talking to her friends, if I can call them that," Ragnar shrugged, sitting down next to his brother.

"Oh, I remember that," He nodded, patting Rollo's shoulder. "Bjørn, your uncle didn't believe that Y/N could fight. We knew her for years but he was sure she was too weak, so he decided to fight her to prove he was right. He left the fight with a broken nose after meeting the rim of her shield up-close."

Rollo rolled his eyes and growled lowly at his brother's comment. "Would you skip that, brother? It's nothing to be proud of, to be so easily defeated by a woman. Being a woman is good on the battlefield, as they can easily get men distracted with their allures," Rollo stated, and took a bite of the roasted chicken leg.

Ragnar's son laughed loudly, rolling head back, which was a manner of his. "Admit it."

"Admit what?," Rollo frowned.

"She's as good at fighting as you."

"Ha!," Rollo rubbed the bridge of his nose. "Y/N is a good shield maiden but it's me who rock the ax like a Thor rocked Mjölnir.

You laughed but it was fake. Of course he wouldn't nice you in any other way than just a woman. They both wouldn't.

You worked your ass off to get good at what you are doing. Just to get attention from the Lothbrok brothers, you loved them both but apparently they didn't return the feelings.

"I mean, he is right. I am just a shieldmaiden. Just like all other women that fight.”

"Father, tell her something!," Bjørn demanded, slamming his fist on the table, making his chalice fall down and spilled his wine all over the counter.

Ragnar rolled his eyes and got up from his seat.

He walked to you from behind you and placed his hands on your shoulder.

"Our young Y/N is one of the best warriors I know. I am proud to have her fighting by my side," Earl announced and moved closer to your ear to whisper. "And I would be happy to have her by my side forever."

You choked on your drink and looked up at those beautiful, blue eyes. Blushing you nodded, biting your lips.

Rollo clenched hands in the fists under the table. Oh, how jealous he was getting whenever Ragnar treated you like his woman. The truth was you belonged to no one, you were a free woman.

Older Lothbrok knew too well that his brother was more successful and that you'd rather lay your eyes on Ragnar than him.

"Father's right," Bjørn admitted, nodding his head.

You smiled and nodded your head, flattered with all the words you just heard. There even was a slight blush on your cheek.

Finally you felt like all the effort was worth something, you only wished for Rollo to think the same. "Thank you, my friend. Your word are kind and flatter me a lot,"

"I hope they are because this is the truth," Ragnar patted your shoulder.

"I go now, I need to talk with others as well but please, Y/N. Come and find me later. I need to talk to you," he informed you before walking awal.

You let out a breath that you had no idea you were holding in.

Taking another sip of the drink your eyes traveled to Rollo, he looked angry.

"Rollo... Is everything alright? If it's about that silly shield story, I am sorry. I shouldn't say anything about it," you said softly, touching his shoulder.

"No, no, it's not about you, little thing," he assured softly, reaching his hand out to take his chalice, full again as Bjørn refilled it with wine. "Would you want to have a little walk with me? It's too crowded here."

Too crowded? Too crowded for Rollo?

Was it even really possible? Ever since you remember he loved to celebrate and to spend time with everyone else after a successful raid or fight.

Deeply confused you nodded your head with a little smile painted on your lips. "Of course, it will be a pleasure, Rollo."

He got up and walked outside of the Great Hall. He waited for you to join him.

You got up from your seat, smoothing your clothes.

Despite any pain you wanted to look the best. After all you still were a woman, you were a warrior behind the shield but back at home you were a delicate and beautiful creature or at least you hoped so.

"Oh... Fresh air," you let out a deep and smiled, looking up at Rollo.

He nodded, his steel blue eyes fixed on your figure as he looked down at you. "How do you feel? What about your wounds?"

Your arm wrapped around yourself and you shrugged.

"It's good I think. It hurts a lot actually but it's not the first nor last wound. I am used to it. Overall I am doing okay as you can see," you summed up. "How about you? How's the big, angry bear?"

He cocked his brow and chuckled softly at the sweet nickname you used on him. "I'm pretty good, even if I didn't kill as many Christians as I originally wanted to.'

"Don't worry, Rollo. Your brother will make sure that we spill more Christian blood as soon as possible,"

Patting his shoulder you decided to tease him little. "But I am sure I will kill more Chritians than you, Bear. I always do.”

He put his elbow on top of your head. "Hmmm, did anyone say something? I can't see. Is this a wind rumbling?"

You giggled and rolled your eyes. "Oh right, right I forgot. Forgive me Rollo Sigurdsson. You are the greatest warrior of them all, even Gods themselves should be afraid of your mighty ax! Better?"

Rollo simply patted the top of your head. "Much better."

Then, out of sudden, he cupped your cheeks, leaned down and stole a kiss from you.

You gasped, looking at him after he pulled away. What just happened?!

Of course you wanted this, oh so much but you never expected it to ACTUALLY happen.

"I... Rollo...," You blinked and bit your lips gently. "What... What did I do to deserve such an honor?

"I hate seeing my brother hitting on you," Rollo said simply, his thumb brushing soft skin on your cheek. "I hate when you make sweet eyes at him. I deserved you to buy mine," man replied, a deep, throaty sound of his tone vibrating through you.

Your cheek became red and warm under his touch.

This was almost everything you ever wanted, you gave him a shy smile not really sure of what to do now.

"THERE YOU TWO ARE!," Ragnar said happily, looking at you and Rollo. "And I was getting worried you got bored with the feast Y/N," He hummed and gently placed his hand right over your wounds. "Is everything okay with you? Are you in pain?"

You swallowed and shook your head.

"Ragnar," Rollo cleared his throat, "Don't you see, dear brother, that Y/N is speaking with me now? Maybe go and check upon Aslaug, huh?"

Ragnar smiled at and kissed the side of your head, relieved that you're doing just fine. His hands slid down and rested on your waist.

"Y/N is one of my warriors. As a Earl it's my duty to check on her, especially when she suffered the injuries she did," Earl said with a shrug, pulling you a little closer. "I saw Siggy looking and asking for you. I think your lover demands some attention from you, brother."

You looked Rollo and sighed, realizing that he was right. Siggy was always somewhere close. How you could even compare yourself to her.

"Just as much as princess Aslaug demands your attention," Rollo showed his perfectly shaped teeth in a wide, wry grin. "I understand that Earl needs to be frequently checking upon his loyal warriors but you can wait some time until I'll finish my businesses with her, right?"

Oh Gods. They were fighting. Fighting over you! You couldn't help but feel pride from this yet you felt scared as well. You loved both of them and didn't want them to fight when you knew that picking one of them will be impossible.

"Aslaug sits quietly in her room when your little toy walks around looking for you. As a Earl, I have my business with her as well," Ragnar growled.

Rollo smiled softly at you and then shifted aside, simply pushing Ragnar's shoulder.

"So wait. I was first. Let's behave like adults, not like savages!"

"I don't feel so good," you said, quickly getting their attention. "I... I think my body cannot take any more for today. I should return to my home and rest."

You didn't want to go and you felt just fine but knowing that they care about you, gave the opportunity to create the distraction from brotherly quarrel.

Ragnar looked at you with worry in those deep blue eyes. "Do you want me to escort you back?"

"I can walk you back to your hut as well, Y/N," Rollo offered immediately, his cold glance fell on his younger brother. "Whatever you wish, my dear."

"I.... I... Uhm," You didn't expect them to offer the escort and find another reason to fight. This wasn't planned at all but you had to somehow get away without a war.

Looking around you smiled seeing Bjørn leaving the building, he was for sure looking for his father and uncle. Oh he was a lifesaver not only on the battlefield.

"Bjørn! My friend, can I ask you for a little help. My wounds wear me off really quickly. Would you be so kind to help me get back to my home?"

Rollo, hearing you asking Bjørn to escort you back home, blinked a few times and snorted loudly.

Bjørn quickly joined the trio and rested his hands on hips, tilting head aside. "With pleasure," the young man offered his arm.

Ragnar didn't hide his surprise, looking at you with a soft frown to soon raise his eyebrows.

"Thank you, love. This is so kind of you," You nodded your head, linking arms with Raganr's son. "I am really sorry for making you leave the feast but I was afraid I won't make it back home alone," you said quietly, trying your best to sound weak.

"No problem, actually I left to find father and uncle," Bjørn replied softly and walked away with you, taking a sandy path leading to the hut of yours.

Rollo crossed his huge arms over his chest. "Are you happy? I hope you are. You shouldn't be called Earl but rather a mood killer," Bear pushed his side against Ragnar's.

Ragnar let out an annoyed laugh and returned to gesture at his brother.

"I did nothing. You were the one snarling like a hungry bear at his prey. Time to learn to be gentle with the woman, my brother," he summed up with a short shrug before patting Rollo's shoulder. "Just so you know. She will be mine to warm my bed."

With those words Ragnar gave his older brother one last smile before going back inside.

"Dick!," Rollo called after his brother.

Meantime, Bjørn walked you home and stopped in front of your little hut. "You're safe now but I have a strong feeling within me you did it on purpose, Y/N."

"I had to run away so the Raven and Bear won't rip me apart in a fight between them," You told him honestly letting out a sigh of relief that you somehow got away from that crazy situation.

"Mmmm, the situation is far more complicated as I can see, isn't it?," He chuckled and ruffled your hair a little. "I've suspected for some time that there is something going on between you and my father. Aslaug caught him staring at you too many times."

You laughed awkwardly and nodded.

"Trust me. I felt his as well as hers on me all the time," sighing deeply you rubbed your face and smiled at him.

"Go now. Celebrate for both of us, ok? I'll just lie down and rest.”

"Are you sure? I'm not certain if I should leave a little shield maiden alone. She might get herself harmed," Bjørn joked and smoothly shifted aside, avoiding the blow you aimed with your fist.

You laughed softly.

"I promise to be a good shield maiden and go to bed so I won't hurt myself. Is it enough for Bjørn ironside?"

He offered the nod. "Enough for me to leave you by your own. Good night."

After these words he walked back into the direction of Great Hall.

You smiled and shook your head, getting inside. Slowly you lied down in the bed, nuzzling to the pillows and furs you placed there. Finally there is peace and quiet. After hours of thinking about everything; the brothers, the kiss, the fight and Rollo's words you finally drifted into sleep.

Few days passed.

You stayed away from Ragnar and Rollo, too busy with taking care of your house and wounds not wanting them to get any worse.

There were a lot of thoughts in your head, you kept thinking about the night of the feast. You needed a way to somehow be with both or just be alone.

"How are you doing today! Ready for me to look at those beauties?," Your friend the healer asked happily.

Rolling your eyes you groaned. "I need to be," you chuckled. "Let's get to it."

Rollo was pretty surprised as you stopped talking with him. But, thankfully, you hadn't been talking with Ragnar either.

The Bear decided to pay you a visit, to speak with you about his feelings. Rollo even thought about stealing one of the necklaces they brought from the raid in Mercia, and he did.

Luckily, his brother didn't notice one missing item, or at least pretended.

Rollo walked out of settlement and headed right to your hut. He was about to walk closer, but he stopped' you weren't alone.

You hissed at the feeling of bandages being peeled off of your wounds. The healer tired her best to work carefully with you.

"Have you ever been in love?,” You asked suddenly, looking at your friend.

"Oh! With many, too bad they did not return the feeling or return at all?," She shrugged with a smile.

You rolled your eyes.

"Have you ever been in love with two men? Brother to be exact?"

The healer stopped whatever she was doing and looked at you with a smug smile.

"Oh! You love Ragnar and his brother don't you.”

Your face went red and she laughed loudly.

It was stupid idea to even start such a topic with your friend.

"You know, just finish your work. I still have stuff to do."

Rollo stiffened, all of his muscles tensed at your words and your creed. Were you truly in love with him and Ragnar at the same time?

Not being sure what to do, Rollo decided to get back to the settlement to meet with his younger brother. It couldn't wait.

Bjorn was playing with his younger siblings as he spotted Rollo rushing through the path. "Uncle! You're running like you've got the devil on your tail."

"Have you seen your father?"

"He went back to the Great Hall, he was mentioning baths or something."

Rollo nodded his head briefly and headed to the house of Ragnar.

Meantime Raganr was relaxing while submerged in nice warm water. It was perfect. No kids, no wife, no people with stupid questions or needs. At least it was like that until Rollo walked in.

"I am busy, brother... What do you want?"

Rollo made sure to close the door right behind him before he stepped further in the chamber. "I'm coming to speak to you about our dear Y/N."

Ragnar raised his eyebrows and laughed softly, opening his eyes to look at his brother. "She liked the necklace? But taking the fact you are here it means that the trinket didn't woo her into your bed. What a shame.”

"It's not about that, brother," he scoffed Ragnar's words. "Yes, I took the necklace to gift her with it, don't forget that I was in Mercia with you and I deserved a cut. I distinctly remember you saying that every warrior will get a piece of the treasure. But it's not about that," Rollo simply grabbed the nearest chair and flopped on it. "I visited her today. At least, I tried but she wasn't alone, her healer friend visited her first. But I think I have information you might be interested in."

Ragnar rolled his eyes and moved closer to the edge of the wooden washtub he was sitting in.

"Oh really? Is the little shield maiden a spy of some kind?,”

Rollo shook his head for no.

Then he also leaned forward, resting his hands on the edge of the washtub, to get closer to his younger brother. "She claimed she loves me but you as well."

Ragnar blinked and looked at his brother with the eyebrows raised high.

"Well, that would explain her great escape with Bjørn when we were at each other’s throat because of her," He hummed, scratching his beard.

"Exactly," the older brother agreed quickly. "What are we going to do about this now, though?"

Ragnar thought for a moment then he looked at Rollo.

"Well, since she loves you and me... We could share. She can't decide, I don't think she will mind having us both at the same time,” he shrugged.

"What about Siggy and Aslaug? They'll go mad once they learn about such an idea."

"Siggy isn't my problem, she is not your wife as far as I remember. You can take care of this yourself, I always can take Y/N all for myself if Siggy stops you," Raganr teased with a shrug. "I can take care of my own wife, she will be soon relieved of the title anyway."

Rollo pretended he didn't hear Ragnar's nast comments about him and Siggy. "When then? I won't lie, I won't wait."

"You never were the patient one. Very well! Let me dress and we will go to her," Ragnar said, getting up from the washtub.

Rollo cringed a little while seeing his brother's naked form but grinned at the same time. "I'm lucky to at least be bigger in some other matters than ruling the settlement."

Rollo knocked to your door strongly.

"Y/N, it's me, open the door, I know you're there!"

"We need to talk with you. It's an important matter," Ragnar also knocked at your door.

You freeze with a dress and a needle in your hands.

WHY WERE THEY HERE?! You didn't invite them or had any important stuff to discuss with the brothers.

With your internal dilemma you didn't want them here. You are just going to pretend you aren't home, they will go away.

Rollo aimed a strong blow to his younger brother's shoulder. "Shut up," he hissed quietly. "I told you that I'll do the talking, all you had to do was to stay quiet but as we can see you can't even follow the most easy plan."

Ragnar returns the action.

"I am in charge here. I always am so better behaved, Bear," he growled.

You listened to them and facepalmed.

Letting out a deep sigh you got up from the chair to open the door.

"Because of such a behavior I was ready to pretend I am not here,"

Rollo instantly slipped his foot between door frame and door to prevent you from closing them. "Hi, Y/N, we have to talk.”

You nodded your head and opened the door fully for them, inviting them inside.

"Come in then, can I get you anything? Drink? Food?"

"I'll pass," Rollo replied and smoothly slipped into your hut, instantly taking a seat at your chair. "Mmmm, cosy," he commented casually while looking around your place

This felt strange, just seeing both of them in your stomach twist. In a pleasant way of course but still.

You looked at them and smiled.

"I'll pass as well," Ragnar said and decided to sit down on your bed. "You had to do the talking. I am listening."

Rollo gave him a dead glance, and shifted his eyes at you. "Is there anything you'd like to share with us? Feelings, concerns?"

You shrugged and played with your hands nervously.

"No, I honestly have no idea what you are talking about Rollo."

Rollo gave you the look you knew too well. He wasn't the idiot. "Y/N, just to make the situation clear, I've heard your talk with the healer today."

Your face went completely red when you realized what it means.

Rollo knew what meant that Ragnar knew now too.

"I... I am sorry if this offended you or your brother in any way. I just, I really can't pick. Both of you are just wonderful men."

Rollo exchanged glances with Ragnar and chuckled. "It’s fine, don't worry, no one here is mad at you."

Ragnar got up from his comfy seat and walked to you.

"Actually we think the complete opposite when it comes to the whole situation,' He said quietly and placed hands on your cheeks before crushing his lips against yours.

You let out a surprised squeak but kissed him back, grabbing his wrists to brace yourself as you felt your knees going weak.

Rollo stiffened seeing his brother stealing a kiss from your lips; he wanted to this as well but his blood turned cold at the sight. "I beg your pardon?"

Ragnar pulled away with a chuckle and shook his head.

"Don't be offended, brother. Please, help yourself," he gestured at you.

Biting your lips you smiled. "Come here,"

Rollo wasn't sure if the thing he was about to do was good. For the first time in his lifetime he hesitated with a woman.

You watched Rollo for a moment and then walked closer to cup his cheek. "Whatever you heard today. It was all true, I love you and your brother in the same way," you whispered and kissed him gently.

Ragnar rolled his eyes at the sudden softness of his brother and decided to pour himself a cup of whatever drink was standing on your table.

Rollo offered the kiss back, slowly slipping his tongue past your lips. It danced slightly with yours as he cupped your cheek with one hand and simply slipped the other one to give your ass a harsh squeeze.

You moaned into the kiss, letting him dominate it.

"Careful Rollo or you will eat her alive." Ragnar muttered looking inside the cup.

Rollo soon let go off you, licking his lips.

You looked at him and giggled, stroking his cheek.

"I am so happy you don't hate me for this."

Raganr chuckled and gently pulled you back on Rollo's laps so he could kiss you as well. He pulled away as soon as he needed to catch his breath.

"It's hard to hate you, Y/N."

"My brother is right," Rollo agreed easily. "You're a good warrior, a decent and beautiful woman," the man claimed while putting his palms to his thick belt.

"And we will have plenty of time to discover what else you are so good," Ragnar summed up. "I suggest we don't trouble her too much tonight, brother. At least until her wounds heal fully,"

"But once the wounds heal...," Rollo came closer and gently wrapped his hand around your neck, "Then we will have to train her a little, am I right, brother?"

"Oh yes. Our little shield maiden will have to learn a lot of new things. Not necessarily combat related but still really useful," Ragnar hummed, kissing behind your ear.

You meowed at their touch.

It all was finally happening. Gods listened to you and your dreams came true.

"For now let's hope her bed can have all three of us. I bet her tired body would appreciate some gentleness,” Earl added.

Rollo laughed. "I take place from the wall."

And after these words he simply flopped off the bed which let out a cracking sound under his weight.

You cringed at the sound but smiled softly when you realized it didn't break.

Gladly you climbed into bed and placed one more kiss on Rollo's lips while Ragnar joined the two of you, wrapping his arm around your waist carefully.

You turned and kissed him as well before getting comfortable between them.

Rollo offered you his stretched arm. "Comfy?," He asked after you placed your head on him. His second hand rested on your hip.

"Don't be too greedy, brother. I am here as well," Other man muttered and nuzzled to your back, hugging you tightly.

You only smiled.

"I couldn't be happier. Two men I love dearly are here with me," You hummed, slowly drifting away into slumber.

Rollo brushed a lock of your hair behind your ear.

As you fell asleep, he looked at Ragnar. "Do you think we can handle it? Sharing one woman?"

"Why not? We are brothers, I am used to sharing with you," Ragnar shrugged. "If we want to make her happy we need to handle it somehow."

Rollo nodded and put his head to yours. "Yeah. That's true. I hope this will easily work out as I remember us fighting dearly about women.”

Ragnar nodded.

"Just so you know. I fuck her first and away from you," he added quickly.

"In your fucking dreams, Ragnar," Rollo smirked wryly, whispering. "I'll be the first one.'

"It's settled then, Bear. We'll see who will get into her pants first," Ragnar dared with a smile.

Rollo rolled his eyes a little with a consternation in his glance. "I'm older. Older people take precedence over younger people."

"I am Earl. I take precedence over everyone," he said proudly.

"I swear to Gods will you two keep your mouth shut and try to sleep or I need to kick you out of the bed?," You muttered annoyed.

Rollo scoffed loudly and remained quiet, closing his eyes and nestling with you.

Ragnar rolled his eyes and nuzzled to your shoulder before closing them.

"Much better. You two can be quiet," you joked.

The Tarry Gift || Higgs Monaghan x Reader (yet Sam makes a short guest apperance too!)

Summary: it had to be a simple delivery after a longer time of being indisposed. Little did you know that the client was Higgs Monaghan himself

Warnings: none     

Words: 2728

Authors: Cass & Bear

A/N: This is a comedy fic. We wrote it accidentally while just playing around with writing a thing for Higgs Monaghan character but it came out so laughably that we decided to share it with you! ENJOY!

You hoped for a lot as for the first delivery since a long time but instead, you’d gotten pizza delivery. A fucking pizza.

You took the box and headed to the destination.

When the terminal beeped, Higgs narrowed his eyes. Quickly a realization came - it could be nothing but pizza! 

Oh, how much he hoped to finally meet Sam in his bunker! 

How much he craved to see Sam's face when he will realise that Peter Englert was no one else but Higgs himself!

Before putting his hood on, he checked his makeup and smiled at his reflection in a mirror. "Mirror, mirror on the wall, who's the meanest of them all?," He smirked widely to his reflection so the whiteness of his teeth glistened back in a light of lamp and Higgs chuckled.

He checked his outfit for the very last time and walked to open the door.

"Oh, Sam Bridges! Guess you're happy to..... Who the fuck are you?"

"Who the fuck are you?," You asked with a frown, still holding pizza box in your hands.

The last thing you needed now was being insulted by an aspiring beauty guru. "I have your pizza, mr Englert."

"Where's Sam Bridges?," He asked, measuring your features from the bottom to the top.

You shrugged. "He left before I did. Even if he is my friend I don't really know where he is. Why do you ask?"

"Nevermind. Oh, where are my manners? Please, come in, come in," he gestured at you to get inside the bunker.

"Uhm…," You felt confused, most of the time you interacted with holograms and no one ever invited you inside. "Uhm, I don't know if I should."

"Oh, don't bullshit me!," He simply grabbed your forearm and pulled you inside. When he did, the door closed automatically.

Now you felt scared as fuck and the locked door made you scared even more. "Uhm... Your pizza,” you passed the box to the man in the hood.

With his hood still on, Higgs grabbed the pizza box from you and humming happily he went further along the narrow corridor. "Oh, c'mon! Don't stand like an idiot. Get in!"

You swallowed heavily and nodded, following him. You didn't like it but you had no other option.

The corridor led to a huge chamber.

The walls were covered with handwriting, maps and pictures of no one else but Sam Bridges.

Almost in the middle of the room there was a couch and a table. Under the table there were empty pizza boxes.

Man flopped on the couch and opened the box he was holding in hands. He grabbed a slice of pizza and took a bite. He hummed. "Delicious. Make yourself at home. Want some?," He asked, offering you pizza. "Salami and ham."

You looked around and felt the shivers moving up your spine. This didn't look good and you wanted to run. "No, thanks… I don't like salami or pizza itself."

He shrugged. "Whatever you say, honeypot," he replied and ate his slice of pizza only to grab another

"Don't call me that. I don't even know you. Why am I here even?!," You growled angrily while rubbing your elbow.

"The name's Higgs, the particle of God that permeates all existence. You brought pizza and you are the friend of Sam Bridges who is my greatest enemy of all time. So technically, you're kidnapped," Higgs claimed.

You blinked, processing what he just said. "Excuse me...? You kidding, right? I wanna go out. Let me out."

"Take a seat and have some pizza. Rest. Make yourself at home. You're not going anywhere."

"I don't like pizza!," You growled. "I want to go home! I have other stuff to do."

"Shhh, shhh, shhh, stop talking, I can't gather my thoughts when you're yapping like a puppy," Higgs finished his pizza and laid on the couch.

"LET ME OUT YOU, PSYCHO!," You yelled and stomped a few times.

He didn't listen. After a long moment he got up and walked to the desk where a laptop was placed. He took it with him and sat back on the couch.

You frowned and moved closer to close the laptop with your palm. "Let me you! Do you understand English?"

"Can you stop yapping, pretty please?," He pulled the hood off his head and furrowed his brows.

"Can you stop being a dick and let me out?!," You growled. "Sam won't just come because I am gone."

"Oh, he'll. I'm mailing him, don't worry, he's going to come for you," Higgs replied. "If I was a dickhead, you'd be tied up and I'd put a rag into your mouth to shut you up. I didn't do anything. I even offered you pizza! Ah, people are so ungrateful these days."

"Says the guy that kidnapped an innocent woman. You want me to be grateful for keeping me here?," You asked in disbelief, crossing arms over your chest.

"Oh-ho, I heard the storm has come! It's better here I think, you're dry and not exposed to BTs. Or... Are you truly safe here?," He smirked wryly and snapped his fingers.

Without a blink of an eye the floor turned into tar and a creature formed out of it. It was a lion BT with a golden snout. It roared at you.

"Holy Beach!," You whimpered and sat on the couch right next to him, pulling knees right under your chin. "Take it away! I am sorry! I will be good!"

The lion tilted its head and shook its mane, roaring and yawning. Next, the creature licked its paw and sat right in front of you.

"Don't worry, it won't hurt you unless I order so," Higgs informed as he was writing the email.

You only nodded your head, too scared to even move or breathe.

"If you need a hug, you can just tell me," Higgs chuckled. "I'm a great cuddler."

Lion hit your knee with its paw, roaring.

"I would never touch you, ever. I am scared of this thing," you explained, pointing at the lion and whimpering loudly when it hit your knee.

"Don't you see? He demands being petted," Higgs glared at you. "Go on. Pet him. Like this," he reached out and stroked the mane made of tar.

You nodded and slowly tried to pet the lion how Higgs instructed you.

It resulted in a loud purring that was followed by a tail wiggling, sending some tar on the walls. Soon, the lion laid down, his belly exposed.

You looked at Higgs. "Really? I thought BTs are more scary," you said and bent down to scratch the lion's belly.

Lion's paw started shaking as you hit the very right spot. The puring became louder. 

Higgs raised his brow while looking at you. "Ah, right. They are scary, indeed. Just don't try this with others outside because they'll kill ya," he reminded. "Ah! Done! Now we only gotta wait for Sam to come and rescue you from the oppression!"

"You think I am that stupid to pet every BT I see?," You asked with a frown. "I don't think he will come but I at least can pet the lion..."

Lion grabbed your arm with both front paws and pulled you to him more so you fell off the couch. 

Higgs chuckled. "I forgot to tell you that he is too demanding sometimes."

"I can see! I will need a shower… Ah, I just took one before I left the facility," You sighed sadly, petting the lion.

Lion opened the snout and trailed its tarry tongue across your face.

You only whimpered and sighed defeatedly.

Soon, the terminal beeped again.

"Your saviour has come apparently!," Higgs informed you excitedly and rubbed his hands together getting off the couch.

He walked to the main door of his bunker and put hood back on. He touched the touchpad on the wall and the door opened. "Ah, Sam Bridges! We can finally meet in person!"

Sam put the case he was holding in his hand down on the stone floor and cocked his brow. "Higgs. We do know each other."

"Yes! But technically you came here to meet Peter Englert. So?," He sent Sam  a wide grin.

Sam let out a sigh. "Higgs. I know you're Peter Englert. Now, can I get Y/N back?"

"Yes, please! I'd like to go home, even if I like the lion!," You yelled from the floor while you were still petting the creature. Too bad you couldn't keep it.

Sam narrowed his brows. "Excuse me, is she inside? How? What for?"

"I'll share a secret with you," Higgs put hands to Sam's shoulders and leaned forward to trace the tip of his tongue along Sam's cheek. "I let her in and she enjoyed our common time."

"Get off, man!," Sam pushed Higgs off and wiped his cheek with the top of his gloved palm. "Y/N! Move on!"

You rubbed the lion's snout. "I started to like you. I need to go now, you cute, little thing. Maybe we'll meet again and you won't eat me then!," You said to the creature and got up to quickly run to Sam. "Hi," you give him a smile as soon as you step out of Higgs' bunker.

Sam measured your figure from the bottom to the top with shock written on his face. "Were you fighting BTs? Did he do something to you?," Sam asked, pointing right on Higgs who instantly shook his head for no, raising his hands up.

“He locked me in his safe room and was rude to me but at least he let me pet his BT lion. It's messy as hell but I really loved it," you explained with excitation, looking at Higgs. "Too bad I can't have one."

Higgs sent you a grin and snapped his fingers once again. Within the blink of an eye once again a little puddle of tar appeared at the entrance and a little BT lion cub stepped out of it, meowing loudly.

"Omg, hi, little one!" You laughed and picked the creature gently up. "You are mine now."

"Hola, hola!," Sam raised his tone. "You're not going to take a BT with you. Put it back, now, I am not joking, Y/N. You won't get the BT from this deluded guy."

Higgs crossed arms over his chest. "Let her. This BT belongs to her now, you would have to chop the cord off."

"Exactly. It's mine," you looked at him with an innocent smile, hugging the cub.

The BT lion cub reached its tiny paw towards Sam, but the man immediately took a step back. "This is sick, ridiculous. What are you thinking, Y/N? That we'll get back to Bridges with that BT hidden in your backpack? And you," Sam pointed at Higgs. He was so done with Monaghan's actions and shady plans. "You better get the fuck out of my sigh, I'm so done and believe me - I would kill you but I know it won't affect you in any goddamn way."

Higgs chuckled. "It's good to be a repatriate after all, huh? Y/N, you can keep the BT," he winked at you.

"What's the fucking point of kidnapping her though," Sam pointed at you, "When you simply let her go? What the fuck is going on!"

You pet the cub and shrugged. "He was really disappointed when I came with pizza. So if I understood it correctly, he didn't plan to hurt me and only wanted to get your attention."

You moved a little closer to Sam. "Trust me, he must be a big fan of yours. His walls are decorated with your pictures," you whispered.

Sam cringed at the simple thought of his photos being attached to Higgs' walls. 

"I planned on killing you," Higgs claimed openly. "But she came instead of you, and she brought a good pizza. So I rethought my idea and today I won't kill anyone. What a lovely day, isn't it?!"

Higgs approached you and Sam and wrapped his slender arms around you two. "What a lovely day for the encounter!"

You cringed at the hug, knowing that Sam must have felt really uncomfortable with this.

Letting out an awkward laugh you patted Higgs' shoulder. "Yes, yes... It's nice but please, can you let us go?"

Monaghan measured your features with his steel blue eyes. "It's a shame such a beautiful woman is wasting her youth on being a porter though," he touched your cheek with a gloved hand and then leaned down and forward to get on the level of your head. "But due to the fact you were rather a good hostage, I'll let ya go," after these words he licked your cheek. "You taste so good."

Sam cringed harder at the sight and simply yanked you out of Higgs' grasp. "I have enough of you, I mean it," Sam told Monaghan who only chuckled. "What's so funny, Higgs? Maybe it's time to get a life, something?"

Higgs rubbed his bearded chin before replying. "You see, Sam, haunting you and turning your life in a fucking mess became one of the most beloved and fascinating hobbies of mine lately," Higgs concluded with a happy tone. "You're so much fun, aren't you? Especially when you're making all those grimaces of yours when I cause the tar being all over you," Higgs summed up.

Sam closed his eyes for a brief moment, trying to cool himself down. "Amelie created a goddamn psychotic monster," he summed up, his hands clenched in fists.

"Sam, let's go, okay? You two can fight some other time. If he lets us go, let's use it," you said, petting the little lion in your arms and starting to walk away. "Thank you for the lion!"

"The pleasure is mine and mine only, Y/N, it's a pleasure to meet you though. Remember, the name's Higgs!"

Sam dragged you down the hill, right to his car. "Are you insane?"

"Hey! He kidnapped me, did you forget? Okay, maybe more like inviting me inside and locked the door but I felt kidnapped!," You stated. "And since when do you touch anyone?!"

"Since you pissed me off with the childish behaviour of yours, Y/N, he could have killed you."

"Like you see he did not! Overall he was even nice to me. He gave me a little lion!"

Sam let go of your hand. "Don't get fooled by his sweet face," Sam raised his finger up, shaking it in front of your eyes. "He might look cute and behave cute but it's his deluded facade. He's a fucking delusional psychopath who gifted you with the fucking BT. It's nothing normal in this."

"But look. It's my BT now, it won't hurt me or anyone. It will be okay," you said and nodded. "I know but look, he didn't hurt me and I am fine."

"So maybe get back to his bunker and you two can live a happy life, how about that?," Sam growled. "Get in. Time to get back to Bridges as you spent more than half a day with the main terrorist of America."

"I was kidnapped! It's not like I could just leave. You also took your sweet time to get there," you let out a sigh and got in, rolling your eyes.

"I was working and getting throughout BTs territory to get your ass saved, Y/N, so don't bullshit me about me being delayed," he instructed as he took a seat at the wheel.

"Okay, sorry.”

"Ah, and put this fucking thing to the trunk, I don't need the upholstery to be covered in tar," added Sam while pointing at BT lion cub that was on your lap.

"It's connected to me. If the cub is going to the trunk then I go there as well," you answered, petting BT head.

"For fuck's sake. If your sweet tar cub will leave a single tar spot inside, I'll cut the cord, understood?," Sam growled

You rolled your eyes and looked away.

"And please, next time refrain from delivering pizza."

"Not my fault that this is what I get to do. You know that it's not my choice," you sighed looking out of the window.

Sam only nodded in silence. "So at least try to verify to whom you are delivering."

DEATH STRANDING CHRISTMAS

Summary: It's Christmas time and love is in the air. What will happen when everyone will be reunited that day?

Warnings: None

Words: 6637

Authors: Cass & Rouge

A/N: Merry Christmas! Wishing you all the happiness your holiday can hold!

Allured by the peace and quietness and the scent of freshly baked Christmas cake coming from a canteen, you took your lingering gaze off of the enormous Christmas tree adorned with glistening ornaments and glowing fairy lights draped around it that stood in the middle of the huge chamber that was usually serving as a dayroom.  

As the evening sky faded away, the pink and orange hues were replaced with dark shades of blue.

The festively designed decorations, illuminated with blinking Christmas lights, vibrant ornaments and brightly colored signs, were lined up along either side of the corridor.

As you entered the canteen, the loud, spirited laughter of people could be heard over the continuous chatter surrounding the vivacious atmosphere; it brought a wide smile to your lips.

It's been a great time without Christmas, and you truly couldn't understand how it was possible that no one has ever tried to bring the magnificent spirit of Christmas back.

This year it'll be different, you told yourself half a month prior when you visited Die-Hardman with a plan for Christmas arrangements.

In the canteen you made sure that everything was going well.

There it was, as clear as the sky on a scorching summer day, that particular aroma, that perfect blend of spicy and sweet - gingerbreads were baked.

Die-Hardman stepped into the canteen as well, he wore his best suit and tie; he looked as festive as if this were a normal family reunion. "Y/N," he nodded at you a little. "As I can see, everything's in place, my sincere congratulations, the truth is I didn't think you'll be able to set all this."

With a grin playing in the corners of your lips you gave the bid back. "Yes, sir, apparently I made everything, with the little help of Sam who, just between us, wasn't a fan of the idea though."

"Little help? I had to bring the whole tree in, you think it was easy?," Sam walked in looking up at the Christmas tree, while holding his BB pod. "Not to mention I had to run to get all of the trinkets you placed on that poor tree. What is it for anyway?"

"Y/N found old records about Christmas. She decided to organize some on her own, for us all," Dead man explained. "I think she did it nicely. Like in some old photos."

"Yeah, sure." Sam muttered. "At least it looks like Lou likes it."

"Of course I did nicely! I did my best!," You claimed happily and Die-Hardman chuckled deeply.

"So... You did all of that for five of us? Kinda excessive if you ask me," Sam said and walked closer to the tree to show colorful light to Lou.

"Not only for five, there will be more. That's what Y/N promised, isn't it Y/N?," Deadman said looking at you.

You nodded and walked to him. He wore a sweatshirt with reindeer dressed in a Christmas hat. "Correct. Also let me tell ya that I love your sweatshirt!"

Die-Hardman led everyone closer to the Christmas tree. "Okay, I hope that rest will join us…” His sentence was cut off by Cliff who appeared out of nowhere.

He was having a red hat with pompom and was dressed like Santa Claus. "Ho-ho-ho! Merry Christmas everyone! Hope I didn't get late! My men, it took them too much time to get dressed properly!," He chuckled and few of his comrades appeared right behind him. This time they weren't having rifles with them but a lot of bags with presents wrapped in colorful paper.

Sam blinked a few times, he turned to you. "How... How did you do that?," He asked quietly.

"We are here finally!," Mama said happily as she and Lockne joined the party. Both sisters dressed in colors perfect for christmas. "Mama couldn't find her glasses," Lockne added.

You hugged them both. "It's so good to see you again!," You claimed and clapped your hands.

Soon, there was a cracking sound and Amelie joined you. As always she wore a red, fitted dress and she was holding a few packages in her hands. She put them under the Christmas tree and gave a smile to Sam. "Merry Christmas, Sam. Merry Christmas to everyone!"

Sam gave a flat smile and nodded. "Merry Christmas, Amelie," he said, turning Lou to all the guests. "Look how many people are here." 

Another cracking sound filled the room and Fragile showed up. "Merry Christmas to everyone?"

"It looks like your plan worked out perfectly, Y/N. How did you do that?," Deadman asked. "It's a lot of people in one place." 

"I messaged everyone, and if it comes to Amelie, let's just skip this though," you chuckled. "I asked them to come, and I told them that we can't simply give upon our traditions just because Death Stranding is on. They agreed," you replied.

After a few minutes the door to the dayroom slid open and Heartman entered with dancing moves. "Hey, guys! Oh, Mama! Good to see you! Magnificent! Wow! You also have a Christmas tree! And decorations! Hmm, am I correct?! Is this true?! Do I sense gingerbreads?!," He almost sang.

"Someone had too much Christmas, maybe it wasn't a good idea to pull him out of the lab... His heart... Ya know the deal, right?," Sam asked you quietly with a frown.

"Sam grumpy as ever," Fragile said, walking up to the two of you. "This was an amazing idea Y/N. Oh! Sam I have gift for little one."

Sam raised his eyebrow and handed the pod to Fragile. "Hi there, Lou. Merry Christmas," she said before pulling out a little sweater and putting it around the pod. "Oh! Look at this!"

"Lou looks like a little candy! How cute is that!," You clapped hands and walked to Heartman to place a brief kiss to his cheek as a greeting. "Hey there handsome, I'm so glad you've accepted my invitation."

"How could I not?," he chuckled. "For this special occasion I turned the AED off."

"Let's just hope he won't suddenly drop dead during the supper... Or whatever Y/N prepared," Sam said and looked at the pod in Fragile hands.

She only giggled and raised the pod. "Cliff! What do you think? It's cute, right?"

Both Mama and Lockne let out a loud aww sound at the sight of BB wearing the sweater.

"So Y/N. You are the head of this whole thing. What should we do now, the truth is not everyone knows what to do during Christmas," Deadman said, looking around.

Cliff approached Fragile who held Lou and tapped the glass with his finger. "Hey, BB, you're the cutest BB of all time!"

"Okay, guys!," You whistled loudly to get their attention. "First, I want to say something," you announced happily. "I'm so glad to see you all here, in this place. It has a very symbolic meaning to me, we're one, just like our beautiful country will be when Sam will finish connecting all cities to the chiral network," you smiled at them, tugging on the dress you wore. "It means a lot as we all are one. We are one in our mutual experiences, in our closeness and understanding..."

You slipped your glance along everyone in the room. "Merry Christmas! You can have a snack, they're on the table," you nodded in the direction of the table where a lot of dishes were awaiting to be consumed, including huge roasted turkey. "Later, after dinner, we will have a very important encounter with Santa Claus!," You winked at Cliff who nodded slightly.

A loud cracking sound filled the room. "HELLO THERE BRIDGES! Merry fucking Christmas, guys!," Higgs yelled loudly, not bothered by all the looks he got. "Why do you look at me like that? Oh yes, yes, I know. I should bring a gift but I didn't have enough parts to build another nuke," he rolled his eyes, waving his hand around.

You shook your head as Heartman instinctively shielded you with his body. "Who is he?," You asked with curiosity in your tone.

"That's Higgs. The man who blew a few cities out of America's map," Heartman informed you quietly.

Amelie put hands to her hips. "I wasn't aware you're going to be here as well, Higgs," she almost snorted.

Die-Hardman gave the newcomer a mean glance. "Seriously? Even on such a day you need to destroy everything?"

Meantime, your glance was still on the man in the hood.

"Wooooooow, I feel so welcomed here," Higgs said, removing his hood off his head. "I destroy stuff, it's just my thing but I see something else I can destroy."

Higgs suddenly vanished and then appeared right behind you.

"Well, well, well! What do we have here? Thanks, heartboy," he said picking you up to take a look at you. "Ain't ya a beauty that is worth to be taken under the mistletoe?"

Sam facepalmed. "There is no day with break."

You blinked but being taken completely aback by stranger's action, you had to wrap arms around his neck to support yourself. "Uhm, hi there, sir. Can you consider putting me down though? I feel pretty intimidated," you whispered, your eyes fixed on his, and dear Beach, his eyes were so magnetising!

Amelie sighed. "It's Christmas after all, guys. I think we should let him stay. In such a time no one should be alone."

Die-Hardman agreed with the lady in red. "Amelie's right."

Sam blinked. "Seriously? He nuked two cities and planned to nuke the third one. “You can't be serious!"

Higgs giggled, patting your hips. "Being intimidating is my second name, sugar," he pretended to think about your request. "Well I don't know. I love little sweet girls like you, maybe I will take you as my gift."

"To be fair, director, Higgs is a highly dangerous man. He proved this many times," Deadman added.

"I like this guy. He makes me blush," Higgs said and then looked at you. "I think I may have a gift for you, sugar,” he added before giving you a golden mask.

You took it in hand and fitted it to your face. "Gangsta!," You chuckled and ran to the nearest mirror to have a look. "Ha! This is so cool!"

You waited for him to approach you. "My name's Y/N. And you're Higgs, that's what Heartman told me."

Heartman looked after you and blinked. "She's impossible. Jumping like a puppy but this is what happens when a young girl is alone for too long, am I right, Mama?"

Amelie walked to Deadman and put hand on his shoulder. "Trust me. I know what he did but maybe by showing him kindness we'll get more than by following his game."

Die-Hardman cleared his throat. "Okay. Let's take the seats and have a meal. This is a special day, everyone deserves kindness, just like Amelie said."

Cliff took BB from Sam and set it on the chair right next to him. "Can someone pass me the knife? I forgot my army knife and someone has to cut the turkey!"

BB rolled in the pod and giggled waving at Sam.

Mama and her sister frowned looking at Heartman.

"What was that supposed to mean?," Mama asked, offended.

"Yes, what was that supposed to mean?," Lockne repeated after her sister.

Deadman nodded at Amelie's comment. "Maybe you are right."

"Oh! I have a knife, army-man!," Higgs said loudly, presenting his own knife. "I never leave it. Maybe you should learn this too," he chuckled before being pulled away by Fragile.

"You better behave if you want to stay here. Be normal for one single day," she growled and Higgs nodded. "Okay! Okay! Noted! I wouldn't dear to fuck up Y/N's day. I bet she worked her ass off for all of this." 

You took your seat at the table, right between Sam and Fragile.

Cliff took the golden knife from Higgs' hands, offering the tall man a suspicious glance. "I hope you're not the guy who's bothering my son and Lou. Otherwise, I'd have to kill you," he informed with a cold grimace in his face which quickly vanished and was replaced by a grin. "Okay! Who wants the chicken?! Hey!," He got up and glanced at his comrades who were trying to sneak to the tree and gifts located under. "Behave! Get back to the table! No turkey, no presents! For fuck's sake, I asked you all to behave! How many times did we train the entire thing?!" 

One of the army men quickly got back to the table. "Uhm, few," he admitted and took the helmet off, placing it on the polished floor.

"And what did I say?," Cliff asked while cutting the turkey.

"We get in, we greet living beings, we have a meal, we behave, we get presents and we have a party."

Heartman laughed loudly. "Cliff, I have to say you're having a huge authority among them. What a situation!"

Amelie offered everyone a grin. "Does anyone want some potatoes?"

Higgs sat right next to Sam and gave Cliff an innocent smile.

"Oh no, Mr Sam's dad. I am a good boy, my twin brother bothers Sam. Besides, Sam bothers me too! He keeps destroying my plans! And BTs!," He whimpered dramatically.

Sam only rolled his eyes and moved a little closer to you to get away from the terrorist.

"I’ve seen them before yet they still freak the fuck out of me," he whispered to you, looking at the soldiers.

"I can say the same…," Fragile said quietly

"I am so surprised they are so…," Mama said, thinking about the right word.

"Obedient," Lockne added quickly. “We expected them to be... How to name it?"

"Creatures of chaos," Mama finished.

You smiled at Sam and quickly turned head to face Lockne and Mama. "It's called discipline, right, Mr Unger?"

Cliff offered you a bright grin. "The girl's smart. I like her. If my son wouldn't have this phobia of his, I bet he would take a chance on you."

BB rolled in the pod.

Amelie chuckled and covered her lips with a curled hand. "Actually, Cliff, Sam would be her father if he made an effort..."

Heartman laughed loudly before he stopped his outburst, he also raised his thumb up. "And 20 likes go to Lady Strand! What a beautiful, honest summary!"

Higgs laughed and patted Sam's back. "Well! Ya know guys, some men like younger girls. Honestly I would love to get Y/N in my hands. To pin her down and just…,"  Higgs didn't finish his sentence because he got smacked on the back of the head by Fragile.

"Behave," she growled after getting back in her seat.

"To be fair, since we got on that topic. I don't think the age difference should be a taboo any longer," Deadman said before digging into his meal. "World is shattered, we should do what we can to make sure humanity doesn't die. Of course while keeping some moral boundaries."

"Do we really have to talk about such stuff now?," Sam groaned, rolling his eyes. "I don't like this topic."

"Oh, why? Because you can't get laid, Sammy boy?," Higgs almost sang, teasing Sam.

Cliff rose from his seat and threw a glance to Higgs who quickly shut his mouth. "That's way better," Cliff said and pretended that he rose only to get the corn salad.

Die-Hardman took his mask off and started eating the turkey that Cliff handled to him. "I need to agree with Deadman. Humanity is on the edge of destruction and extinction..."

"... Thanks to terrorists like Higgs," Heartman added, his eyes fixed on the uninvited guest.

"That's not what I meant... However you're not wrong on this," Die-Hardman agreed. "What I meant is that we should take care of reproduction, to make sure that the human race will survive and will be able to rebuild our world. To make it great again."

You blushed hearing Higgs' words about him liking younger girls, so to hide it you grabbed the glass and drank the wine that was poured by Mama.

Amelie nodded as she was cutting her piece of turkey into little slices. "We all are sober yet the topics are getting interesting already. I'm curious what will be next."

BB swam a little and moved closer to Sam.

"Oh, BB, granddaddy is here too, look, look," Clifford waved hand to get Lou's attention and then he put the Santa Claus hat on, playing with the pompon. "Look, little one! Granddad is Santa Claus!"

"To be fair, Y/N and Sam would look cute together. Imagine the cute kids they would have!" Mama said excited and Lockne nodded eagerly. "I want to be an aunt!"

Fragile noticed your red face and smiled gently rubbing your shoulder. "It's okay Y/N. Family is like this. They will talk and then they will stop."

Higgs frowned looking at Heartman. "Hey! Heart boy! I don't see the world getting better thanks to science boys like you," he growled resting his elbow on Sam's shoulder.

Sam quickly pushed it off his shoulder with an annoyed sound.

Higgs rolled his eyes before digging into his food. "Oh, fucking shit! This shit is good! Fucking better than a pizza! Oh! By the way, Sam! Lately you started to bring it cold. I don't like it."

Sam let out a loud sigh. "Then start to move your ass. You can jump and grab it yourself."

"Naaah! Making you visit me is more fun!," Higgs giggled.

You were covered in a blush after Mama and Lockne's words. You tugged on Sam's sleeve. "I swear, this is my first and last Christmas Eve ever."

You also giggled hearing complaints made by Higgs.

Heartman got up to get another piece of mashed potatoes. "To your information, Higgs, we build, not destroy, and that's the difference you'll never understand, you little devil's spawn."

Clifford clapped his hands. "Come on, guys, eat, eat or we won't get to presents this year!"

Die-Hardman smiled at his friend. "It's good to see you among us, Clifford."

Unger grinned and turned head to you. "Hey, Y/N, what drinks do we have except wine? I don't say it's bad but as for a real man, like me or my son, we could have something stronger. Cognac or whiskey."

Heartman chuckled. "You can always get Monster with vodka. Pretty dangerous mix but tasty. Tried a few times."

Sam chuckled at your comment. "At least next year I will have less work to do," he joked.

"Now I know why your heart is so fucked up. Since you drink such a mixes," Higgs commented before licking his plate completely clean. "I ask for more!"

Lockne, Mama and Fragile followed Cliff's order and started to eat as well.

"Well... For me some beer is enough," Sam said checking on Lou.

"I'll go get the drinks," you offered and politely excused yourself before getting off the table.

Heartman quickly got up too. "I'll help Y/N."

Amelie offered mashed potatoes to Higgs. "You're pretty hungry, aren't you?"

"Hell fucking yeah I am! Sitting in the bunker or camp and eating cold pizza ain't easy, sweetheart," Highs nodded and started to eat as soon as he got more food on his plate.

"Such a diet isn't good. You should eat more healthy stuff," Deadman said.

Higgs only shrugged, being too busy with his food.

Fragile sighed and shook her head. "No manners. You should spend some time with Clif to learn something, Higgs."

"Oh, I'd gladly train you, young man," Clifford said. "With me above you, you'd be running smoothly."

"I'm sorry, I know that thing I'll say is totally wrong but I imagined some other things, Clifford. With Monaghan beneath... Oh, dear God, forgive me for I have sinned," Heartman added before he left the room with you.

Die-Hardman spat himself with the wine he was drinking.

BB started chuckling.

Amelie blinked and facepalmed. "Maybe extinction is not a bad idea?"

Meantime, you and Heartman were in the pantry, collecting bottles of alcohol and cans of Monster and beer.

"I think that this little party is great, Y/N," Heartman stated. "Thank you for this opportunity of having some substitute for normal life, it's been a while since I felt truly happy," his voice broke a little, so you put the bottle of Jack Daniels and simply gave him a bear hug.

Sam choked on his food.

Mama and Lockne laughed loudly. "Not to offend anyone, that would be something nice to watch," Lockne said with a giggle.

Higgs hummed. "Sorry, ladies! I am more of a top but if any of you are interested, I am single as a pringle and ready to mingle. Just I am not into man, sorry, Mr Sam's papa."

Sam blinked, taking in what just happened and after a moment he groaned. It was a bit too much for him.

Soon, you and Heartman returned. You walked to Cliff and handed him a bottle of whiskey.

Heartman poured some vodka to everyone who wanted and handled Sam a can of beer.

"So, Y/N, are you enjoying the fest you threw?," Amelie asked with her soft glance on you.

"Yes, I do, even if I cringe from time to time, I think it's cute to have you all in one place."

You then turned to Fragile. "Hey, do you know something more about that Higgs guy who got here on blackballed? I need to think about something for him. I prepared gifts for everyone but him. I didn't expect anyone else to join," you whispered leaning to the woman.

Die-Hardman looked at Mama. "How is your research? Did you fix Sam's qupid?"

Mama nodded. "We did actually. Everything should be more than good once he is out again."

"It wasn't a hard fix. Just a few updates and it's working perfectly again," Lockne said before taking a sip of her wine.

"Uuuu! Smart ladies! I like it!," Higgs nudged Sam with elbow. "I need to get to know them. Twins are like two in one deal!"

"I am not doing that," Sam muttered with a frown.

Fragile looked at you. "Oh trust me, I know him a bit too much. He shouldn't get a gift for being a bad person," Fragile stated quietly.

"Yeah, I understand, but it will be in a bad tone to not gift one person... Ok, I'll think of something."

An hour passed on many talks, the atmosphere was filled with laughter.

"Dears, did anyone see Cliff?," Die-Hardman asked as he spotted his friend was missing.

You also vanished from the room.

BB was already sleeping and Amelie was sitting with Heartman, chatting like there was no tomorrow.

"I think Y/N took him to the other room," Sam said, looking at sleeping Lou.

"Maybe she decided to extend the human kind with him!," Higgs said quickly. "Since his son didn't want her, daddy decided to try it. I can't blame her," he shrugged.

"Just shut your mouth, Higgs," Sam growled.

Higgs giggled and continued to drink his beer.

"Hey, wait a minute, Lockne and Mama are gone, too," Heartman said as he was pulled from deep conversation with Amelie.

"Foursome?," Higgs purred while Sam facepalmed together with Fragile.

"Y/N probably planned something special. She prepared Christmas in smaller details," Deadman nodded his head a little. "The food was great."

"That's true!," Sam added.

Suddenly, the music came out of speakers.

Last Christmas I gave you my heart

But the very next day you gave it away

This year, to save me from tears

I'll give it to someone special

 "HO-HO-HO!," The main door slid open and Clifford dressed as Santa Claus entered the room. He was having a huge bag thrown over his shoulder, his hat with pompom was tilted slightly.

His four comrades were having reindeer hats on.

You, Lockne and Mama entered the room right behind him, all three of you dressed in white, short dresses with wings made of silky material and snowflake patterns on your dresses, rocking to the music.

"Come here, children! I hope you all were good for the last year, ho-ho-ho!," Clifford took a seat in a huge armchair you borrowed from Die-Hardman. "It's time for presents!"

"So maybe Lou first, he is the youngest one, huh? What do you say?," Sam said softly, tapping on the glass gently to wake up the BB.

"I can go a second round! I am the most important bad guy here," Higgs said full of pride.

"Today my little, beautiful helpers will set the order, ho-ho-ho!," Clifford laughed deeply.

In the tact of music, Mama danced toward Sam and picked the pod with Lou from him.

"So, young gentleman, I know you've been a good, little bean, so I need to get inside my bag of presents to get yours! Aha! I have it!," Clifford pulled a new pod out, with the ribbon wrapped around it. "More space for dance, huh?"

Meantime, the song ended and the next one was on.

 I sing this song

To pass the time away

Driving in my car

Driving home for Christmas

 "Deadman for sure will move you into it as soon as possible. You should like it," Mama said with a smile.

"And Now back to papa," Lockne took BB and his gift to bring them back to Sam.

"Me now!," Higgs got up from his place and sat on Cliff's laps.

"So! Mr Santa-Sam's dad, what do you have for me, huh?," He smiled. "I was the best fucking boy the whole year!"

Cliff gently nudged Higgs' side to make him get off his lap. Clifford rubbed his long, white, fake beard. "We all know you've been the baddest but thankfully the beautiful lady over there," he pointed at you, "decided that you also deserved the gift. Let me find it in my bag of miracles."

Clifford reached into his bag and pulled the nicely wrapped box, he handled it to Monaghan. "Merry fucking Christmas, asshole."

It was nothing but a book about Egyptian mythology and a handmade cloak that was originally meant to be for Heartman.

"Thank you fucking much!," Higgs said excited and quickly returned to his seat to look at the stuff he got. He already loved them.

"So? Who's next... Maybe our Director." Mama said and walked to Die-hardman. "C'mon. Everyone gets something today."

Die-Hardman chuckled but let the lady scientist lead him to Clifford.

"And you!," Fake Santa Claus said, "You've been good, too. Here's your gift, merry Christmas!"

Die-Hardman was gifted with the themed tie with reindeers and with a polishing paste.

"It's for your mask, so it will always look classy," you smiled at him and as he returned to his seat, you walked to Heartman and grabbed him by palm.

"Ho-ho-ho! Merry Christmas, Heartman!," Clifford grinned widely and gave the man a heart-shaped box, in which Heartman found a pair of gloves with heart motiv on each and a CD with classical music.

"Thank you, Y/N," he smiled brightly at you and kissed your cheek. "It's the best gift."

Sam looked at Fragile. "Go on. I am sure Santa also got something for you."

Woman nodded and got up from her seat to walk closer to Santa. "Well, I was a good girl. I think at least. I tried," Fragile said slowly.

"Dear Fragile, and your gift is in my bag, that's for sure! Just be patient as the old man will find it!," Clifford chuckled and soon gifted the woman with a new umbrella with Fragile logo.

Then it was time for Deadman who got new glasses.

Amelie was gifted with a golden necklace that fit her dress perfectly.

Lockne and Mama also got the present, it was a little blanket with an admixture of chiral matter. "This will help your sweet daughter to sleep in a cradle, she won't be drifting up under the ceiling," you smiled at them. "It was my project with Heartman's execution," you explained.

Clifford got new night-vision goggles.

In the end, Sam was gifted with a new suit.

Everyone was enjoying their gifts, talking about them and enjoying whatever time left.

"Y/N?," Sam looked at you. "What with your gift? Everyone got something and you?," He frowned.

"Yeah! Exactly! Where is the gift for our beautiful host?," Higgs looked at you over Sam's shoulder, he was already wearing the new cape.

"My gift is everywhere. It's the atmosphere you all created and this is more than I could dream about. My heart's beating faster when I see you enjoy the meals, the gifts," you smiled at Sam and Higgs.

Higgs sighed placing his chin on Sam's shoulder. "Isn't she adorable! But it's not fair. You did so much."

"I hate to say that but Higgs is right," Sam sighed.

"I need to agree with both of them. You did so much, in such a short time. You gathered all of us here," Deadman added. "Who else agree?"

All you could do was to smile at everyone. "I mean it, guys. I don't need gifts. You all are the greatest gift to me."

Heartman walked to you from behind. "We kinda predicted you will think of everyone but yourself. So here's the gift from us," he handed you a box.

Unwrapping it with shaking hands, you felt the heart racing in your chest. In the box you found a notebook in a leather cover and a few pencils.

"We've heard you like to draw," Die-Hardman smiled.

"Guys... Thank you! So much!!," You cried quietly while hugging the gift to your chest.

"We are in this together, Y/N. If everyone gets a gift it means you get one too," Sam shrugged Higgs off earning a groan from Monaghan.

 Party continued.

People talked and laughed, simply enjoyed the company, while finishing whatever food left.

Die-Hardman was having so much fun that now he was dancing with Lockne to one of the christmas songs.

Higgs was sitting in his seat looking through the book you gave him. It's not like he had people to interact with here.

You definitely had too many drinks. After almost half an hour of dancing with Heartman, you had to rest at the table. You flopped on the first free seat which was the place next to America's most wanted terrorist. You clicked your high heels off and groaned. "How much I hate these shoes!," You muttered while stretching like a cat.

"Why did you put them on? If they are uncomfortable just never wear them again," Higgs shrugged. "End of the problem."

You blinked at the comment and chuckled. "Fair point though. You'll never understand this though as you're the man and I'm the woman. Our brains are different," you hiccuped.

"I know when to stop drinking. You'll never understand this though as you're the woman and I am the man. Our brains are different," He giggled, teasing you.

You laughed at his comment; this man was about to be a death of yours.

You got up from your chair and reached out to him. "Hey, vamos a bailar!," You asked him with a little smile dancing in the corners of your mouth. "Pretty please?"

"No idea what you’ve just said but yea, sure, I agree on anything, sugar," Higgs said, returning a smile. "Lead the way."

You grabbed his palm firmly, without hesitation, and led him right into the dancefloor which was just the free space on the floor, next to the Christmas tree.

Heartman followed you with a frown. "I don't like it," he whispered to Fragile.

You climbed on your tiptoes to wrap your arms around a man's neck, both to get a bit intimidated and to support yourself from falling.

Fragile looked at you and Higgs, she shrugged.

"Since we have Death Stranding free day, let them enjoy it. After it's over, they will be mortal enemies again," she said and smiled. "Why? Are you jealous?"

Higgs chuckled. "Holy me, you are so small when I keep you close! I fucking love it."

Heartman blushed a little, rolled his eyes and lowered his thumb, taking 5 likes from Fragile before he moved aways with dancing moves, to join Mama.

You chuckled nervously at Higgs comment. "Thanks, I take it as a compliment," you simply rested your forehead against his chest.

She only laughed and nodded. "Thank you for confirming this, Heartman!," Fragile said a bit louder.

Higgs wrapped arms around your waist and nodded. "Oh yes, you indeed should take it as a compliment. Maybe I really should kidnap you as my christmas gift."

You giggled at his words while rocking into the rhythm of the music with him. "Maybe," you teased. "But I think that Sam and his dad would twist your neck after."

You suddenly raised a head to look at him, and you noticed a mistletoe above his head.

Higgs thought, looking at both men before his gaze returned to you. "Hmm... I honestly think it would be worth it," he noticed that you looked up and followed you. "Oh, fucking finally!,” Higgs said excited and pressed his lips against yours in a messy kiss.

You blinked when his lips crushed on yours but soon closed your eyes and enjoyed the kiss. You take the attempt to dominate him in the kiss but you fail so finally you give up your tries and simply wrap your arms around his neck.

Higgs pulled way after a moment and winked at you.

He reached up to take a small part of the mistletoe and then sneaked to Sam.

"Oh! Sammy boy!," Higgs sang.

Sam sighed deeply and turned to look at him. "What?," He frowned, seeing the mistletoe. "You kidding?"

Higgs gave him a wide smile and suddenly licked Sam's nose, making the other man froze.

Like nothing ever happened Higgs returned to you.

You started laughing hysterically which resulted in you losing the balance and almost falling on the floor, thankfully Higgs was faster and caught you in his arms.

Clifford spat all the whiskey he was about to swallow on Die-Hardman's shirt.

Heartman turned head around to see what happened but he lost his balance and fell on Lockne who spilled her wine right onto the electronic device on his chest.

Heartman's AED turned on and kicked him with an electric glitch, causing him to die on the spot.

"Higgs, you killed Heartman!," Amelie screamed.

"Nooot first and not the last death!" Higgs said with a shrug before kissing your lips quickly. "It's getting late and I have nukes to build! See you maybe next year!" He winked at you before vanishing.

As you lost Higgs as your frame, you fell right onto the floor and rolled on your back, still laughing.

"Or maybe not! It can wait!," Higgs said after returning. "Besides I didn't take my gifts."

"You really need to turn everything upside down?," Sam sighed, shaking his head.

"That's my job!," Higgs shrugged. "Who wants a drink?!"

You raised your hand up, still laying on the floor. You discovered it was a pretty comfortable place to rest. Or maybe you were just too drunk?

After 3 minutes another electric shock made Heartman's heart work properly again, and the man woke up, sitting on the floor. "What the fuck!"

Clifford was helping Die-Hardman to clean his shirt. "Monaghan! Stop being a douche-bag to everyone! If you won't listen, I'll have to shoot you," he warned, almost growling.

Amelie helped Heartman back on his feet. "You okay?"

"Yes, it's fine."

BB started crying.

Higgs quickly helped you up and smiled. "Oh, c'mon, Clifford! Everyone is well and alive. Even the heart boi. Practically, I did nothing wrong," he shrugged.

Sam let out a deep sigh.  "It's Higgs after all. What else we can expect."

Higgs agreed with Sam, hugging you tightly.

You felt squeezed by his arms. "Can't... Breathe...," you whispered quietly hoping for him to lose his grasp.

Heartman smoothened his suit. "I almost forgot! I borrowed a camera from my friend's geologist. I want to take a picture of our pack, except you," he pointed his index finger at Higgs.

"Heartman, let him. He spent the entire evening with us, one photo won't affect anyone," Amelie nudged the man's chest.

"I fucking love photos!," Higgs jumped happily. "The host should have the honor of setting us for a photo!," He said excitedly.

You smiled at Higgs and squeezed his palm that you were still holding. "Okay, fellas. Clifford and Mama, you two go on left. Yes, just like that. Amelie, you with Fragile and Sam can take a seat on the couch."

"Sam, maybe you can be in the middle?," Amelie smiled at her stepbrother.

You pecked your lips as you were thinking. "Okay, Die-Hardman, would you be so kind to take a seat here, on the pouffe? Yes, just like that, thank you. Deadman, you can take our lovely Lou and stand next to the pouffe a little. Hmmm, and Heartman, my lovely friend, you can stand behind Die-Hardman. That's it! Perfect! Lockne, can you stand right next to your sister?"

Sam wasn't too happy he wasn't holding Lou but nodding he followed your little orders.

Mama and Lockne stood exactly where you wanted them, just like a Deadman.

"I see a perfect place for myself!," Higgs claimed excitedly and lied down on the floor. He turned on his side and propped up his head on a hand. "Perfect!"

You facepalmed a little but chuckled at the villain's idea. "Actually, you fit there perfectly, Higgs!"

You quickly set the camera on the shelf and made sure to turn the timer on, then you quickly ran to take a seat next to the Die-Hardman.

The flash lit the room and the picture was taken.

"Cool! Can I get one? I will have a nice souvenir from that nice day," Higgs asked from the floor. "I had so much fun!"

"Yes, of course you can!," You smiled at him and ran to the camera to set it again to take a second pic.

When the dawn was about to knock at the door, and when almost everyone was sleeping in weird positions where they could, you led Higgs to the exit. "I never thought I'd have so much fun with them all. And, though I didn't expect you, I'm grateful you came," you smiled at him and handled him his gifts to make sure he won't forget to take them along. "I put the picture into the book."

Higgs nodded, taking the book.

"Yeah, It was fucking fun. I enjoyed it," He sighed, looking at the gift from you. "Too bad that as soon as I leave we'll become a mortal enemies again,"

"Maybe you'll but not to me," assuring him, you grabbed his palm and squeezed it lightly. "No matter what you'd do, you gained a friend," you smiled.

Higgs took your palm and kissed the top of it. "Thank you, sugar. I will remember that."

"Take care of yourself as we need to meet next year for another Christmas party," you chuckled softly and blushed a bit at his sudden gesture.

Then, like he was one of the good guys, you wrapped your arms around his waist and hugged him. "Please, stay safe and see you in a year. Remember, you have to pop up! No excuse as it won't feel like Christmas without you."

Higgs hugged you, being totally confused but he nodded with a soft chuckle.

"Okay, I will try my best. See you in a year," He slowly pulled away and winked at you before vanishing.

You smiled to yourself while observing the flipped rainbow on the sky and hearing the thunder.

Despite your efforts, the Death Stranding still was on.

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.