Ivar The Boneless X Reader - Tumblr Posts - Page 2

In My Sights II

Masterlist | One

Pairing: Ivar/Reader

Word Count: 1885

Warning: Schmut, this part literally starts off with a bang.

Summary: Certain obligations call you back home.

Author’s Note: So much for this being a one shot.

Your hand grabbed the headboard tightly, holding on for leverage as you slammed yourself down onto Ivar over and over again. You bit down hard on your lip when you felt that sweet release slowly creeping up on you again. Trying so hard to hold back your desperate moans, you refused to let him know how badly you were falling apart. But when you felt his thumb start to circle around your clit, you were unable to stop yourself from crying out his name.

He wrapped his hand around the back of your neck, pulling you down to him. “Say it again, say my name again,” he whispered harshly into your ear as his thumb moved faster.

Your head was so cloudy from the pleasure that you found yourself willing to follow his order and repeated the cries of his name. He kissed you deeply while his hand tightened around the sides of your neck. You felt the spasms taking over your body as you became lightheaded.

Digging his head back into the pillow, Ivar groaned out loud as he came inside you after feeling your pussy clench around him. Your senses felt overloaded when he loosened his hold on you, the rush of air you were finally able to take in seemed overwhelming. You continued grinding your hips slowly against his while you both rode the aftershock of your orgasms.

You collapsed onto his chest in a sweaty mess of loose limbs. A part of you was surprised he lasted as long as he did. It seemed like he was determined to make up for all the lost time and make sure you didn’t forget him if you decided to make yourself scarce once again.

“Stay with me for once. It’s the least you could do,” he insisted, pulling you back to him when you tried to get out of bed. It was the same thing every time you two got together, he’d beg you to stay and you’d have an internal struggle while you told him no.

Feeling his arm wrap around your back, you laid your head against his chest. “Because I stole your kill?,” you guessed.

“Because you said no,” Ivar lamented softly. Taking your left hand in his own, he gently caressed your empty ring finger. “I still have the ring if you changed your mind.”

You were foolish to think he wouldn’t bring up the elephant in the room.

This is why you stayed away for so long. You knew if you kept showing up in his life that he would slowly try to wear down your resolve. At least he didn’t have the ring with him this time. It was hard enough just saying no to his hopeful face at the time and even harder saying no to the beautiful ruby stone surrounded by a diamond halo.

“Ivar, you hardly know me.” It was the same response you gave him the last time.

Other than your addiction to labels, luxury, and murder, he only knew of a few small facts you deemed safe enough for him to know. None of which you thought would cause a man to spend at least six figures on the perfect piece of jewelry for you.

“Well if you marry me, then I can spend the rest of my life getting to know you,” he contended as he interlaced his fingers with yours.

“How about we just enjoy the next few hours?” You were grateful that you were looking away from him. You didn’t think you could take seeing the disappointment that you were sure was on his face.

Ivar only hummed in response. You knew this wasn’t going to be the last you would hear of this though it seemed like he was conceding for the night. The truth was that you wanted to be his wife, you wanted to wake up every morning in his arms. But you weren’t naive. You knew that the only happy ending women like you get is one where you don’t end up with a bullet in your head.

You closed your eyes and allowed yourself to be lulled by the sound of his heartbeat.

It was a faint buzzing sound that stirred you from your slumber. After a few moments of trying to wake up, you realized it was all coming from your phone. You looked down at Ivar and was thankful that he was still deeply asleep. Carefully slipping away from his hold and out of bed, you grabbed your phone before going to the bathroom for privacy.

You tried to hold back your disgust as you evaluated the room. You couldn’t understand why he would lower himself to such grimy accommodations when he had more than enough money to buy a whole luxury hotel if he wanted to. Shaking your head, you started going through your phone.

You had two missed calls from the same contact. There was no name saved under it, only a single emoji of a cross. Your finger hovered over the screen as you dreaded having to return the call. You knew the voice on the other end would be displeased over being ignored. A single message popped up just when you were about to hit call.

You are due for a confession.

Kind of early for that, ain’t it, Padre?

Do not call me that and you are due whenever I say you are due.

Fine, I’ll be there as soon as I can.

Good. I will have a plane waiting for you at the airport.

That was not good. If he knew where you were, then it was very likely he knew what you were up to. Cracking open the door, you peeked to make sure Ivar was still sleeping. So much for staying till morning.

You quickly freshened yourself up, taking care to wipe the mascara and lipstick smudges from your face, before stepping out and quietly putting your clothes back on. Gathering his clothes, braces, and crutch, you set the items by the bed so he had easy access to them.

You didn’t take a chance on kissing his goodbye, fearful that he would wake and give you too many valid reasons to stay. Hopefully, your parting gift would ease his frustration when he woke up alone.

——

You said you would be there as soon as you can but that was a lie. After your long flight back to Wessex, you decided to take a much needed soak in the bath. It was just before midnight when you texted that you were finally on your way.

Though you never missed an opportunity to get dressed up, you knew walking into the church wearing a high-end dress and a pair of pumps at this time of night could possibly draw some unwanted attention. Instead you were dressed in a well-worn University of Wessex hoodie and plain jeans. To the few people currently occupying the pews, you were just a normal college student looking for some spiritual guidance.

You entered the confessional booth and knelt down on the step, clasping your hands in prayer. “Bless me, father, for I have sinned. It has been three weeks, twelve hours, and six minutes since my last confession.”

You wondered if you had the wrong booth when all you got was silence. Usually the exchange was simple, you would say the code—twelve hours and six minutes—and then the priest passed along a memory stick containing your next assignment. The remainder of the time was spent with listing your unabsolved sins.

“Hello? Is this thing on?,” You jested, giving a few raps on the partition. When it did finally open up, you could tell it was him even though the screen obstructed most of his face. “Damn,” you softly whispered.

Heahmund stared down at you, slowly exhaling as if trying to control his annoyance. “Hello, Sister Mary Julian. I am glad you could finally join me.”

The Bishop was very careful to limit his interactions with you which you took no offense to. The rare times he made an appearance was either to make a very special request or to lecture you over your work. “So, this assignment must be a juicy one if you’re personally delivering it to me,” you hoped.

“I think we both know that there is no new assignment. I had been informed that you have been away for the past few days.” It looked like you were in for a reprimand tonight. Raising his brow at you, he continued, “Tell me, Sister, what was the purpose of your trip? And I think it is in your best interest if you do not lie to me.”

“Pleasure, mainly.” Technically, not a lie. The only reason you took the job was to see Ivar again. “Just needed a bit of R&R.”

“I found it very interesting that the son of a well known diplomat was also there getting some ‘R&R’. A diplomat who is a very generous friend of the church.”

“That is interesting.”

“And even more so that his son unfortunately died due to a severe allergic reaction.”

“Should have avoided the shellfish.”

“I did not get to that part yet.”

“Damn.”

Heahmund pinched the bridge of his nose while he roughly sighed. “While your creativity in your work does amuse me, I thought we agreed that you would not take a contract on your own. Remember I handle the clients and I pick your assignments. All for your safety. Or do I need to remind you why?”

“No.” Your hand instinctively went to scarred skin below your ribs, remembering when you first met him. You were a bloody mess, passed out at his feet after being betrayed by a client. But that was a few years ago and you felt a few years wiser now.

“Do not go behind my back again,” he warned. “Your set of skills have proved useful to me and to the church and I ensure that you are well compensated for it. We would both hate it if I had to cut ties with you now.”

Rising up from the step and brushing the dust off your knees, you were happy there was no mention of what or who else you were doing while away. Heahmund was willing to overlook the sinful acts you had to commit for work purposes but, as a bride of Christ, any personal intimate relationship was nonnegotiable especially one with a man whose family was considered an enemy of the church.

“I have not excused you. I told you that you were due for a confession.”

You didn’t care if he saw you roll your eyes as you kneeled back down. You made quick work running down the list of sins you committed since the last time you were in the booth. Murder? Check. Grinding against a married man? Check. Not dressing modestly? Check. Obsessed with material possessions? Always.

Still Heahmund held back on giving you your penance. “Anything else you might be missing?”

Your mind shifted to the image of Ivar looking up at you from his position between your thighs, his tongue flat against your clit while his hands pinned yours down on the bed. You felt yourself getting wet just from the memory alone. “No, nothing I can think of, Bishop.”

——

Tags: @youbloodymadgenius @spotgaai2000 @castielsangelsx @walkxthexmoon @multifandom0-0 @placetokeepstories

Learning

Masterlist

Pairing: Ivar/Reader

Word Count: 2161

Summary: Ivar is able to learn more about Reader as her walls slowly comes down.

Author’s Note: I’ve been slow with updating anything. With work and all the things going on in the world, I’ve been much like the reader and preferred to stay in bed all time. Hopefully, I can get back into the groove because I do enjoy entertaining you all with the ideas that pop up in my head.

The Stolen Queen: When Heathen King Meets Christian Queen Lost The Secret Visit

----

The knot on the wooden plank across from you seemed to grow the longer you stared at it. You were lying in bed with your arm hanging off the edge and no intention of moving. It seemed like today was going to be the same as the rest. Your ankle was getting better and you could finally put some weight on it but that still didn’t give you enough motivation to step outside.

There wasn’t much of a point. You could only sit in silence with Arn so many times and watch as he sharpened his sword or gutted whatever animal you'd be feasting on that day. Even if he were more of a conversationalist, he knew no Saxon and there were only a few Norse words you could understand. You two were limited on the ways you were able to get your point across to each other. 

Like a few moments ago when he plopped a plate of food onto the bed. He pointed at your lunch, acted like he was spooning it to his mouth before he crossed his arms and waited for you to make your move. You nibbled on a slice of meat just to appease the older man enough to leave you alone. Once he made his exit, you dropped the morsel immediately and went back to staring at the wall.

Your eyes grew heavy as you slowly drifted off for the third time that day. You spent most of your days asleep. Ever since the last time you ran off, you realized that it was only in your dreams when you could escape from these four walls, getting lost in past memories. Some good, some bad, and some that hadn’t crossed your mind since you were younger...

It was the sound of a clay pot crashing right outside your room that woke you from your nap. You stood on the tip of your toes over your pile of blankets to take a peek out of the window. The usual bustle of the marketplace was replaced with panic as people tried to quickly pack up their stalls. Mothers had their children in their arms as they ran from the town center.

The shouting from the other room had you hopping off your bed and quietly walking toward the archway. Your mother and Sigbert, her loyal guard and friend, hovered over the table, looking over the battle plans. The white paint on her face was smudged and now replaced with blood but you weren’t sure if it was hers or someone else’s.

Sigbert pounded his fist against the table causing one of the figurines to tumble onto the ground. “Dammit, Rasha! More than half your warriors are gone. We must leave while there is still time. I know King Wuldric would insist on your safe return to Essex.”

Your mother hung her head as if in silent defeat. Her braids dusted the table below her. “My people need their queen and that far outweighs any need of a foreign king,” her voice was just above a whisper. You had to poke your head out of the archway just to hear her clearly. “You need to return to Essex and you need to take Y/N with you. There is no one else I trust more with her life.”

“You cannot stop them,” Sigbert tried to reason with her one last time.

“Then I will have to die trying.” She looked over to you. “I’ll take comfort that my legacy will live on through her.” Your lip began to wobble when you saw her tears flowing, pulling the red and white coloring down her face. You’ve never seen your mother with such sadness in her eyes and you didn’t know why but it frightened you.

Picking you up, she smoothed your hair back as she tried to stop your tears. “Y/N, Be not afraid, you’ll always be safe with Sigbert. He’s taking you home. Home to your king.” She pressed a kiss against your temple, holding you tight to her before passing you over to your new guardian.

As he carried you off to his waiting horse, you reached out your small hand to her, calling out for her, “Mama! Mama!”

You woke up to the bed shifting next to you. You peaked over your shoulder to find Ivar sitting next to you, picking at the food still left on your plate. Though most days you didn’t feel like seeing him, you didn’t feel particularly up to it today.

“Do you know you mumble gibberish in your sleep?” he questioned before shoveling your leftovers in his mouth. “Arn says you’ve stopped eating. Is something wrong with you? Do you need the healer?”

“Nothing is wrong with me.” You turned your head away from him, focusing on the knot in the wall again. You heard the clink of the plate being set on the floor before the bed dipped right behind you. 

“You know you can talk to me, you don’t have to be afraid.” His warm body was close to you as you felt him twirling your hair around his finger. 

You could only laugh mockingly, refusing to believe the words coming out of his mouth.

“You can. Anything you say here will not get you in trouble.”

You rolled over to face him, “Anything? Like I can tell how much I dream of climbing on top of you.” His eyes widened as you straddled his waist before you leaned down to press your forearm against his neck. “So I can slice open your throat or stab you in the heart.”

Your threat must have fallen on deaf ears when he smiled up at you, his hands slowly sliding up your thighs and under your dress, “Maybe if you get a hold of another chicken bone, you’ll get your wish.”

You smacked your hand on his chest in annoyance before climbing off him and the bed. Stomping out of the cabin to get some distance from him, you tried to not focus too much on the jolt of electricity that flowed through your body when his rough hands were on you.

You could hear him getting off the bed and the strike of his crutch hitting the ground as he made his way outside.

“Come with me,” Ivar ordered as he passed by you and walked over to his chariot. 

You slowly followed him with your arms crossed in front of your chest, standing by and watching as he climbed in. You raised a brow when he held his hand out to you.

“You could walk along with me, my queen, but I think it’ll be faster if you ride with me.”

Pushing his hand away, you grabbed onto the side of the chariot and you pulled yourself in. 

He chuckled as he grabbed the reins. “Still stubborn as ever, I see. Maybe nothing is wrong with you.”

---

It felt like it didn’t take long for the horse and chariot to break through the edge of the forest. The trees had cleared out, exposing the bluff that was in the distance. Ivar would come here when he needed to be truly alone with his thoughts but with trying to visit you and with his duties as King, there hadn’t been enough time to come back. 

He had been away for some time, busy checking on the stronghold at York. He had hoped you’d be more welcoming to his presence when he arrived at the cabin instead he was informed by Arn that you rarely left your bed and were barely eating despite his efforts. Ivar thought that a change in scenery would heal whatever was ailing you.

When the chariot came to a stop, you made a move to climb out but he gently pushed you back before he stepped down and, once again, held his hand out to you. Rolling your eyes, you finally took his hand and his assistance in getting out from the chariot. 

He propped himself up against a large boulder, watching you as you walked toward the edge of the cliff, taking in the view of the bay. You closed your eyes while you took in the ocean air, wind whipping your long curls around as you stood still.

Backing away from the edge, you started making your way towards him. “Is all of that down there your kingdom?”

Ivar tried to not be so excited that you were initiating the conversation for once. “It is. You sound surprised.”

“Well, with how boastful you are, I assumed it to be much smaller,” you smirked as you took a seat on the grass not too far away from him. 

While he would have been content sitting in silence with you, there was a question weighing on his mind since he took you from Powys. “Why did you run away?”

“You let me go so I--”

“No, from your kingdom, from your husband.”

You continued to stare straight ahead as if you needed a moment to consider your answer, “I was tired of it. Tired of being his queen.”

Ivar snorted at your response and looked down at you incredulously, “You are an odd woman. You could ask any woman in Kattegat if they would want to be a queen and I don’t think one would tell you no.”

“I didn’t say I didn’t want to be a queen. I didn’t want to be his queen. I don’t think I desire to be any man’s queen if they’re anything like a Fremund. I’d rather be a queen without a king.”

“There’s a simple solution for that. Just get rid of your king.” He suggested as he made a slow, slicing motion across his neck.

You laughed at what he was insinuating, “I can’t say that the thought never crossed my mind. I think I’d be dead if I ever tried.”

“When we first met, you said that he wanted you to be a proper queen. What would that be?”

“According to Fremund? One that is only seen and not heard. Just a piece of decoration in the room when he’s entertaining other kings or earls,” your voice was dripping with disdain. “My father once told me that iron sharpens iron. ‘A great king should have no intention of trying to change, control, or silence his queen. He should want her to be as strong and as outspoken as him because her strength is a reflection of his own.’ I learned early on in my marriage that my husband didn’t share the same views.”

Ivar didn’t miss the way you touched the side of your face as if you were recalling a bad memory. He wondered if your usual unwillingness to talk wasn’t just because of your need to defy or irritate him but that it was an ingrained trait.

You stared down at the ground, plucking the grass. “That’s when I started to run away. But his men would always find me. I became a prisoner in my own kingdom. He surrounded me with handmaids and his guards and decreed that I was to never be left alone.” You cut your eyes to him with an irritated look on your face. “It’s funny that I am so far from Gwynedd, yet his order still holds.” 

He constantly wondered how he could convince you to accept your new home. But he now realized that your instinct was to run when someone tried to control and hold you back. “I think I owe you an apology, Y/N. Maybe I was mistaken to have you kept so close to the cabin. You should be free to explore the lands you live on or to even come back here if you wish.”

You looked pensive as you considered what he was telling you. “So I’m still your prisoner but with a larger jail cell?”

“You will be my guest. I’m giving you the freedom to roam and live as if you were a queen without a king. But you must understand I can’t leave you alone. It’s for your protection. I think we both know that you would get lost in the forest and die if you were left on your own.”

You nodded along in agreement. The furrow of your brow had him prepared for whatever clever comment was about to exit your mouth. “Why haven’t you punished me for going against you?” you wondered. “Fremund would have at least backhanded me for less.”

Ivar walked over to you, offering his hand to you. The sun was getting low, he was needing to get you back home. “Because I am not your husband, I’m not a weak king.”

Without any resistance or roll of your eyes, you placed your hand in his, allowing him to help you up.

He led you to the chariot with his hand at the small of your back. “And I can appreciate a strong queen when she’s right next to me.”

----

Endnote: The quote from Reader’s father is actually one I found from a quick google search. Here’s the actual quote:

“A king had no intention of trying to change, control, or “shut up” a queen. He wants his woman to be as strong and tactfully outspoken as him, with her own mind, because he knows, his woman’s strength is a reflection of his. Iron sharpens iron.”—ebrahim aseem

----

Tags: @youbloodymadgenius​ @walkxthexmoon​ @ivarsgoddess​ @tsumamibaddie​ @akaward-potato​ @xbellaxcarolinax​ @kaitieskidmore1​ @castielsangelsx​

(Edited to fix tags. 😒)

@xbellaxcarolinax @shannygoatgruff 💚💚💚 thank you so much for the tags, my dears!

Honestly, I have been a bit (okay, a lot!) absent from the fandom and tumblr in general due to real life stuff taking up most of my attention. But when I do come back on, I see a fair amount of Vikings posts. Is it as much as it used to be when I first joined the fandom months ago? Probably not but I assume it will pick up when the second half of the final season is released.

I do agree with what’s been said above that there’s a lot of talented writers being overlooked because they’re not the most popular blogs. Just because their posts don’t have a lot of kudos doesn’t mean it’s not good. Try to give them a chance!

Also if you have a favorite writer or fan account, pay attention to who they follow or who they reblog because it could lead you to some good stuff! That’s how I found a lot of the people who’ve been previously tagged!

And going back to reblogs. There is a lack of them. Don’t get me wrong I appreciate the hell out of all the likes I get but, with the way tumblr works, reblogging is the only way to boost your posts. So be kind and rewind reblog when you can.

And to add to the list of people to look for:

@abonelessgod | A Nun’s Tale! If you haven’t read it, you need to!

@castielsangelsx | Check out their Masterlist, they has some good Ivar fics!

is it just me or is the Viking fandom slowly dying? 🥺😖 plsss don’t let it go!!!

Second Chance

Masterlist

Pairing: Original Male Character/Original Female Character, Ivar/Female Reader

Word Count: 4,129

Summary: A young woman doesn’t realize there’s more to her boyfriend...until it’s too late.

Warnings: Schmut, Oral (female receiving), restraints, dubious consent, safeword denial, rape, non consent choking, murder, mention of drug use

Author’s note: hi! I’m still alive. 😊 Life has been just a tad bit difficult for me (and for the rest of the world too) so I just haven’t had the motivation to write. Anywho, I actually intended to post this for Halloween but I got stuckity stuck stuck. If you’re still with me even after all those warnings, I hope you enjoy!

When her boyfriend first brought her to his home after their fifth date, she noted the quiet of his neighborhood which differed greatly from the bustle of the city that was always outside of her own window. Four months later, she found herself pressed against his door, sending a silent prayer up to any available deity in hopes that A: his neighbors couldn’t hear the lewd noises coming out of his townhouse and B: he would never ever ever stop twirling his tongue around her aching clit.

She banged her head against the door as another loud moan ripped from her throat. Her hands, which were completely useless at muffling her cries, were now holding onto her lover’s locks while she rolled herself against his face.

If she weren’t so hungry and desperate to come, she would have been disgusted to see the position she was in. Though she wouldn’t exactly call herself a prude, she preferred any sexual activity to take place in a bed with the bedroom door closed. Maybe it was her hormones or the fact that he had been away on a business trip for the past week that when he pushed her against his door and whispered in her ear that he was finally ready for his dessert, she did nothing to stop him from dropping onto his knees. His cane clattering to the ground next to him.

Placing a hand against her chest, she attempted to steady her breath. Her body couldn’t stop shaking as the sweet man below her continued to glide his tongue along her wet folds, lapping up all the juices she had to offer. She wrapped her fingers around the pendant that had fallen between her breasts. A gift he had given her during that night’s date which was a celebration of their four month anniversary. He praised it as the reason why they were together in the first place.

He had brought the necklace into her store to be appraised. Though she was very firm on never getting involved with her customers, especially ones who would have a different woman on their arm every week, she couldn’t resist his smile and found herself jotting down her number for him. She was disappointed that she didn’t see or hear from him again until he finally returned months later. Determined to give him the cold shoulder for ghosting her, she couldn’t help but melt all over again from his charms and agree to let him take her out.

She eyed the piece of jewelry. Though it was not exactly her style as she had preference toward minimalist modern jewelry, she couldn’t deny that it was a gorgeous piece. She found herself instantly drawn to it when he first took it out of the case. It seemed familiar to her as if she'd seen it before but he claimed it had never been on display at another store nor a museum. It was an old heirloom that was kept in the family vault until recently.

When he was a boy, his grandmother told him that it was a treasure found by the ancestor he was named after, a famous king who gifted the necklace to his wife. After the sudden and unexpected death of the beautiful queen, he refused to marry another. With her necklace around his neck, the king felt that she would always be with him and another woman would have only been a poor, lonely substitute. It had been rumored he wore it close to his heart until he was gray and close to death himself, only taking it off to hand over to his most favored nephew.

She wasn't well versed in Norse or Viking history to judge the validity of the old woman’s tale but it was all romantic nonetheless.

“You swear you love it?” Her lover was back on his feet and at her side. Taking the pendant away from her, he held it between his finger and thumb. “We could always find something else if you like.”

“I swear I do. It’s just that you’ve given me so much tonight and I feel guilty that I have nothing to give you in return.” She looked down to the floor when she admitted this.

It’s how she felt for most of their relationship. Her best friend teased her over her guilt and insisted that she should just enjoy being spoiled by her “sugar daddy”, a term she immediately scoffed at. He was more than that to her. It felt as if she waited centuries for him to come into her life. She truly loved him more than any man she had ever known even after only being together for such a short amount of time.

With his fingers under her chin, he lifted her head back up so he could press his lips against hers. She opened her mouth, inviting his tempting tongue to twirl around her own, sharing with her the heady taste of her sex. His hands began traveling down to cup her ass as he walked backwards toward the stairs.

“I’m sure I can think of something you could give me.” He smirked before leading her to his bedroom.

Mere moments later she was laying in the middle of his bed wearing nothing but her new necklace. Arching her back, she gasped when she felt his naked length slide against her clit.

“Do you trust me, my love?” His words felt warm on her neck but still her body shivered.

Furrowing her brow, she thought it to be an odd question to ask at this time but she answered honestly. “I trust you with all of me. My heart, mind, and body. It’s yours.”

“I was thinking we could try something new tonight.” He reached above her head toward his headboard.

The clanging of metal took her aback. Turning her head to the side, she watched as he pulled the shackle from behind the pillow. That was definitely something new. If she was honest with herself, she wasn't into anything too kinky. She tolerated a smack or two on her ass with past boyfriends but being restrained wasn’t exactly her thing.

As she looked into his hopeful eyes, she figured she could at least give it a go once. She took a small gulp, “If I don’t like it, you will take them off, right?”

“Of course, I would. I will never hurt you.”

“Then I guess we could try.” With a small nervous smile, she raised her arms over her head. The click of the metal closing over her wrists made her jump but any lingering fears were washed away with just a press of his lips on her forehead.

Her head pressed back on the pillow when he slipped into her wet heat. The metal bit into her wrists as she pulled at the restraints, her arms aching to wrap themselves around her lover’s body.

“Oh fuck, Christian!” She gasped out as he began to roll his hips against hers.

His body stilled over her, bringing his lips to her ear as if he had a secret to tell, “Could you call me Ivar?”

It shouldn’t have been too odd of a request as it was technically his first name but she had only referred to him by his middle name ever since their initial introduction. He told her that his family, except for a few elderly relatives, and friends have called him Christian since before he could even remember.

Had her head not been so clouded with pleasure, she might have taken a moment to ponder what he was asking. Instead she looked up at him, she bit her lip before flashing him a smirk “Ivar...will you please make me come?”

One thing she was always positive of was that sex with him was never boring. Even from the first time she was with him, it was as if he knew her like the back of his hand and all the things that would draw her to the edge and back. But she never knew of the animal that could be unleashed from just a simple name change.

She wrapped her hands around the chains, trying to hold on for dear life as he slammed his hard length into her. His muffled groans were falling hot and wet against her neck. With her legs hooked up around his hip, she pressed her heels into his ass, pushing him to fuck her harder.

Just as she felt her next orgasm slowly take over her body, his hands circled around her neck. Nervousness began to pool in her belly. This was something she knew she wasn't into.

His moans turned into rough mumbles of a language she couldn’t understand. At first she thought it was the Norse she heard him speak with his family before but this was completely different and, with the sudden roughness of his voice, had her feeling uneasy.

“Christian...Ivar…” she struggled to get out when his hands began to tighten around her. “Stop...can’t breathe.”

She had hoped the rattling of the chains would get his attention but when he finally looked down at her, he didn’t loosen his grip instead he continued his relentless pace. He said he would never hurt her. The tears started to flow from her eyes as her heart began to break.

The pendant that laid against her chest started to become hot, burning her skin while his chants grew louder. It all ended with a roar that echoed in the spacious room as he gave one last thrust when he came inside of her.

Before her vision went black, the last thing she would remember is his eyes changing into an unfamiliar, intense blue. She wasn't sure who this beast on top of her was but she knew this man was no longer her sweet Christian.

----

The only sound left in the room was the unsteady breaths Ivar took as he looked down into her eyes. He waited for them to blink or move, anything to let him know that his love had finally returned to him, that everything he did wasn’t for nothing.

Slipping off to the side and rushing to unlock the shackles, he jostled the still body next to him, hoping the violent shakes would do something. He had been so sure that he followed all the steps correctly and said the right incantations but as more seconds passed, doubt and worry began to overwhelm him.

Ivar took a bruised wrist into his hand, pressing a gentle kiss against it before setting it down next to him, the blood smeared against his lips. “Please come back to me, my love. I can’t go through this again, I can’t spend another lifetime without you.” He stifled his tears as he made his pleas.

He brought his gaze down to the charmed necklace he had gifted you. He glared at it as if he could use his mind to force it to unlock what he desired most. He held the pendant between his fingers, the heat that managed to singe the skin it laid on had already started to dissipate.

Centuries had passed from when you first trapped your soul inside of it.

Though you had survived many battles by his side, the birth of your and Ivar’s son Baldur was more than your body could take. All the spells and potions taught and passed down to you by the women in your family were of no use and only prolonged the inevitable.

Ivar remembered that night clearly. You laid nearly as lifeless then in your large bed as the body next to him now, the dim light of the torches revealing the pallor of your clammy skin. He held your weak hand tightly in his own, refusing to let you go, demanding then begging for you to get better as he was fearful spending the rest of his life without you.

With your last bit of energy, you had conjured a spell that would send your soul into the pendant that adorned your neck upon your last breath, assuring him that you would always be with him as long as he kept it near.

And so he did, only removing it as he laid on the ground of the battlefield, blood spilling from his fatal wound. He enclosed it in the hand of Hvitserk’s youngest son with the strict instruction for him to give it to his expectant wife.

From that moment, a tradition was born. The necklace would be passed down to a favored married relative for the next several centuries, its magic protecting the couples so they would spend a happy lifetime together. Something that it’s original owners were denied of.

It was only until that tradition was broken by Ivar’s 18th great niece who chose to give it to her only unmarried grandson who was as defiant in settling down as he was with using his first name.

The elder woman had simply hoped the necklace’s magic would bewitch Christian into finally finding a wife. She had revealed this to him when he introduced his new girlfriend to her, unaware that she was actually speaking to her ancestor who had miraculously possessed him months ago.

By that time, Ivar had fully adjusted into his new life as Christian Lothbrok. The shock of being in the 21st century was beginning to wear off along with the pounding headaches from the merging of their memories. While he still had no clear answer as to why he woke in his nephew’s bedroom, his nose crusted with cocaine, and not in Valhalla being greeted by the Valkyries, he suspected it had everything to do with the pendant.

He knew his soul had to have been pulled into it just as yours was. But why did it choose to release only him and why did it skip all his other past descendents, forcing him to take over his aimless nephew, a man who Ivar discovered spent the majority of his time blowing through his trust funds and bedding a steady rotation of women.

He didn’t have much of a problem with the latter at first. That is, until he found you.

He nearly tripped over his cane when he walked into the jewelry store and saw you waiting for him behind the counter. Well, the reincarnated version of you who went by a completely different name and had a very cold shoulder.

After much convincing, or more like begging, he quickly got you to warm up to him.

Ivar couldn’t help but rejoice, believing he finally had you back. Unfortunately, it had only taken him two dates and a few late night conversations to realize that he celebrated too soon. While this woman had your looks and kind nature that was where the similarities ended.

She shied away from conflict and covered her eyes during every gore scene of all the horror movies that Ivar had come to love. You, on the other hand, didn’t hesitate plunging your dagger into a man’s eye after he dared to criticize your battle strategy. Gleefully smiling with his blood running down your face, you told him that you hoped he could finally see your point.

He had hoped her simply handling the necklace would allow your past self to possess her but when that didn’t work, he had lost any hope of getting you back. Even the smallest of your spells were beyond his capabilities, forget about the one that could reverse the original spell. So he continued on with his new life, accepting his future with the meek girl.

That is until he received a call from the professor he consulted long ago. They specialized in Vikings history and claimed to have an abundance of knowledge in Volvas and witchcraft even though they knew nothing of any spell runes you left behind nor much about you other than your untimely death. The good for nothing fool finally proved themselves useful, telling Ivar that they’ve uncovered some runes that would be of interest.

The very runes that brought Ivar to where he was now, in bed with a cold body.

He knew he should be worrying over what to do with her corpse. Murder was harder to get away with in modern times than during his first lifetime but still he didn’t feel the need to rush. He was sure there was a member of his family who would be willing to throw enough money to get things covered up for him and keep the Lothbrok name out of the press.

He looked down at her one last time. The poor girl. He never stopped to think that no matter how the night turned out that she would have always been a victim to his desperate selfishness. It wasn’t her fault that she wasn’t the woman he truly desired.

“I’m sorry I did this to you but I had to try.” He lamented out to the quiet of the room. With a soft brush of his hand over her face, Ivar closed her eyes forever.

Sleep never came easy for Ivar, the constant pain in his legs even in this modern age made sure of that, but he knew it would be even harder to come by tonight. He couldn’t escape the frightened look on her face when he closed his eyes. He knew in it his heart it wasn’t truly you who he was killing but still, it pained him. The sounds of her stunted breaths haunted his dreams until the shaking of the bed shocked him out of his slumber

Looking over to his left, he was alarmed to find that the sounds he heard weren't just his guilt tormenting him but was coming from the once deceased woman next to him.

Her back was arched while her head dug into the pillow. Her hands tightly grasped the sheets before suddenly wrapping around her throat, clawing and scratching at the delicate skin as she struggled to take a breath.

Not wanting her to harm herself any further, Ivar was quick to get on top of her and grab hold on her wrists. Her eyes were shut so tight, tears rolled down her cheeks as if she was in the midst of a horrible nightmare.

“Wake up! It’s only a bad dream!” He knew it was a risk. It was likely she would come out of this remembering everything he did to her but he needed to do something fast.

Suddenly, her movements ceased as she inhaled deeply. Ivar was startled by her eyes opening, the color of them changing into something that seemed more familiar to him.

Her eyes widened as they landed on Ivar. He was sure he might have seen a hint of red before she threw a fist into his jaw. She scrambled to get out of bed but, unfortunately for her, he was able to recover fast and wrap his arms around her waist, slamming her back down on the bed. His hands tightened around her wrists, holding her arms down.

“You need to stop and calm down.” Ivar didn’t care that this was the worst set of words to tell a frantic woman, especially one who previously had the life choked out of them.

“Get off of me!” her raspy voice shouted while trying to wrestle her arms out of his grip.

Ivar was sure she didn’t know any modern day Norse nor would she know the language he had grown up speaking. That could only mean...

“Y/N? Please stop it’s me, Ivar” The body below him froze. His heart overjoyed, it worked! Everything he did actually worked!

Spitting into his face, you gave him a look of disgust, “How dare you. You’re not my king.”

You once again tried to buck him off of you but it’s no use as he pressed his body down against yours. He tightened his grasp on your wrists, holding them captive over your head. You began screaming for him to let you go and he knew he had to do something before his neighbors decided to call the police.

“You knew you were going to leave me!” Ivar released a wavering sigh when your screaming stopped and you looked up at him with confusion. “You told Hvitserk that you dreamt of Hel waiting for you by the river. You said you knew she was going to bring you to Helheim soon. You told him to never tell me but you should have known better than to trust Hvitserk with anything.”

Your eyes began to water as you scanned him up and down, carefully studying the man hovering over you, looking for anything else to let you know it was him.

Freeing your arms, he took one of your hands, pressing your palm against his face. “It truly is me, my love. I know you didn’t want me to know because you knew I would have sacrificed all of Kattegat to Hel if she would spare you.”

“Ivar? My Ivar?” you softly questioned, tears welling up in your eyes. “You look a little different.”

He laughed. “I look like our nephew.”

“Our nephew?” Looking around at your surroundings, your brow furrowed in confusion “Where are we? What happ-”

Tightly shutting your eyes, you grimaced in pain before crying out in agony. Ivar knew all too well what you were going through. The constant migraines for months from the memory merge were the worst. He had to get you to the bathroom soon before you made yourself sick in bed.

It was a struggle trying to support your body as he supported his own with his cane while he ushered you into the ensuite bathroom. That was over an hour ago. You both were now seated on the floor next to the toilet. Your head in his lap as his hand smoothed down your hair.

“You know she hated when you did this.” the echo of your voice sounded heavenly to his ears.

Ivar assumed you had fallen asleep moments ago. The whole night had to have taken a toll on your body. “Oh? Going through her memories already?”

You giggled. “As much as I can without my head hurting. She felt like you were treating her like a dog. I rather like it.” You paused as if you were pondering another memory. “Poor thing died so sad, so afraid.”

“It was a small price to pay to have you here with me.”

“She has so many sweet memories with you. It’s surprising that you weren’t gentler with her.”

“I did exactly what the runes said I had to do. ‘To bring back a life, you must take a life.’”

You rolled your eyes at him. “It didn’t have to be by force, Ivar. You could have poisoned her. I’m sure you remember at least a few of my favorite recipes. She could have died peacefully in her sleep. Short and sweet.”

“Well maybe your family should have added that in the footnotes.”

“Did you ever love her more than me?” You pondered, relaxing again to his touch as he went back to running his hand over your hair.

Ivar scoffed at your silly question. “Never. I don’t think it’s possible for me to love anyone more than you.”

You smirked. “Except our son.”

Ivar stilled his movements for a beat before continuing, “Y/N, do you know how all of this happened? I thought your spell would only take your soul into the pendant.”

“I...I‘m really not sure. I thought so too. It was my grandmother’s spell. I only ever heard of her speak of it, I wasn’t sure if it would even work. I just remember wanting to be with you and with Baldur always. I prayed to the Gods and begged for a second chance.”

That must have been it, why he had possessed Christian, why he had found The young woman and ultimately you. The Gods’ favor have finally shone down on them.

“Then we should make the most of this life. We can get married and have a family again. We can grow old together this time.” He pressed a kiss against your temple before whispering into your ear. “This life will be our second chance”

——

Tags: @xbellaxcarolinax @youbloodymadgenius @castielsangelsx @revolution-starter @momowhoo

I lost my tag list so I tried to go through my comments to find whoever wanted to be updated. If you want to be on this list, let me know.

In My Sights: How They Met

Instead of possibly ever writing their meet cute. 😅

In My Sights III

Masterlist | Two

Pairing: Ivar/ Fem Reader

Word Count: 3570

Warning: None? 7 years bad luck?

Summary: A meeting with two brothers from Vestfold takes Ivar off guard.

Author’s Note: Well, this part was a long time coming. That means I will have part four ready next year.

The dining room was sparsely occupied that early afternoon with women who lunch, businessmen on lunch breaks, and their quiet chatter. The Vine had long been considered a historical landmark in Kattegat and was formerly a struggling fine dining restaurant. It had only gained popularity with the upper class once Aslaug Lothbrok, a well-known Götaland socialite who was newly married and new to the city, started to make her presence there. Though it’s popularity faded over the years, it was still preferred by the old money elite. Mostly for the staff’s discretion rather than the food and ambience.

It was for that reason why the Lothbrok sons preferred the establishment for their business lunches. Extra care was also usually taken with a generous tip to the host to ensure no other guests would be seated next to their table but today it was turning out to be a waste of money as the hushed voices from their corner of the room began to grow.

Ivar drummed his fingers against the table as he brought the cup of coffee to his lips, glaring across at his three older brothers. Apparently, the idiots had forgotten the importance of discretion as they were busy bickering over why their associates called for today’s meeting. He hoped the clinking of his cup when he set it down roughly onto the saucer would disrupt their chattering but, to his annoyance, still they continued.

Leaning back in his chair, his left hand mindlessly traced the carved out dragon on his cane, last year’s birthday gift from his dear Uncle Floki, while he scrolled through the day’s news on his phone. One particular article detailed the resignation of a Mercia diplomat after the unexpected death of her eldest son, mentioning that authorities were looking for a red-headed female who was last seen with him for questioning.

Good luck finding her, Ivar thought to himself. He had given up all attempts at trying to find you or any information about you after a year upon your meeting. After coming up empty through hacked databases and facial recognitions, he concluded that you were virtually a ghost or at least knew very powerful people who worked hard to keep you hidden. All he could do was sit and wait until he heard from you again, hoping his right hand and the memories of your last tryst would keep him satisfied till then.

He felt his slacks tighten as he got lost in a memory of you trapped underneath him as he pounded into your sweet cunt. The whines of you begging him to make you come he heard in his head were interrupted when Ubbe pounded his fist on the table, causing the glassware to shake.

“For fuck’s safe, Ivar, get off your fucking phone!” His older brother harshly whispered, checking over his shoulder at the other patrons, finally aware of the scene they were making.

“And why would I do that, dear brother?” Ivar still had his eyes turned down to his phone as he sent you the link of the article and a brief message: You’re on their radar. I wonder what you’re willing to do to make sure I don’t turn you in. Throwing his phone on the table, he raised an eyebrow as he bestowed Ubbe with his undivided attention. “So I can join you fools in biting our fingernails, worrying why they called for a meeting at the last minute?”

“They” were two brothers from Vestfold, owners of a large fishing company based out of their hometown and, most recently, out of Kattegat as well. To the public eye, it was assumed that it was hard work, determination, and a wise investment from Ivar’s father that turned the once struggling business into a multi million dollar success. But the young men currently seated at the table knew that the wise investment was generous compensation throughout the years for hauling more than just fish on their boats. Whether it was guns, stolen art and, for a very brief moment in time, opiates, Halfdan and Harald provided safe transport for anything the Lothbroks were running.

“You're not the least bit worried? What if they’re wanting to pull out of our deal? The Rus are not going to be pleased if we’re not able to deliver their shipment.” Ubbe wrung his hands as he thought of the worst. He was not looking forward to telling the Rus leader of any potential delays. The man wasn’t the most level headed or understanding and honestly, he creeped him out a bit.

Hvitserk nodded his head in agreement. “They might be. Remember, they were wanting a cut of our profits the last time we met with them but Ivar thought it wasn’t a good idea…” He pursed his lips in disapproval before cutting his eyes toward the youngest Lothbrok.

If Ivar had rolled his eyes any harder, he would have given himself a headache. “They’ve been doing the same job for our family for nearly twenty years, nothing more and nothing less, and have been paid fairly for it. Maybe a little too much in my opinion but I will honor our father’s wishes. Still they have no business being greedy. If it wasn’t for the Lothbroks, they would still be hauling fish into a sinking dinghy.”

“There are probably others who are looking for a way to transport their shit and all they need is a smug asshole like Harald to offer his services.” Hvitserk swirled his drink in his glass, taking a sip before continuing. “I think we should give them at least half of what they were wanting.”

Ivar gave an aggravated sigh and was ready to shoot down what he thought was the stupidest thing to come out of his brother’s mouth.

“I don’t know, I think Ivar’s right.” Sigurd chimed in. “They should be grateful for all our father did for them, not bite the hand that feeds them.”

The other men at the table sat in silence as they stared at him in confusion. It was thought that Sigurd would rather eat a bullet than agree with anything Ivar had to say.

“I changed my mind. Give them everything they ask for.” Ivar had joked, he would never admit out loud or to himself that he appreciated his least favorite brother taking his side. Officially done with the conversation, he picked his phone back up. He held back his smile as he read the new message: Anything you want me to do, handsome. But first, you’d have to find me.

Ubbe looked up from behind his nerve-wracked hands toward the lobby and gave a sigh. “Thank gods, they’re finally here...and of course he brought his fucking girlfriend. To our illegal business lunch meeting. Great.”

Hvitserk gave a quick and quiet wolf whistle as his eyes studied the woman on Harald’s arm, from head to toe. “Is that the same one he brought to your birthday party? Didn’t she have different hair and was a bit taller?”

“How can you not tell? I thought you fucked her while cake was being served?” Sigurd questioned.

“All I remember was the back of her head, to be honest.”

Ivar couldn’t hold back the snort at Hvitserk’s comment. Whatever smart ass response that was about to come out died on his tongue as he looked up at the woman that was being led to them. This was definitely a new girlfriend because if you were the one Hvitserk had fucked in the coat check room, he was going to have one less brother.

As always you looked like perfection to him but he knew your presence, or rather your outfit, was causing a bit of a stir in the restaurant especially among the older women who were busy clutching their pearls. From the plunging neckline of the loose dark green silk shirt to the matching miniskirt with a side-slit it was tucked into, your ensemble was far from the acceptable dress code of the Vine but the host knew better than telling Ivar and his brothers that their guest would have to leave, no matter how many complaints he’d get from the other patrons.

“Can you two shut the fuck up before he hears you?” Ubbe scolded Hvitserk and Sigurd before standing up to greet their guests. Shaking Halfdan’s hand before moving onto Harald, “Gentleman, I’m glad you could finally join us.”

Halfdan gave a frustrated sigh as he unbuttoned his suit jacket and plopped himself down on an empty seat. “Believe me, it wasn’t my fault.”

“Oh come on, brother. We didn’t keep you waiting that long.” Harald slapped a hand on his shoulder before parading the young woman on his arm. “Boys, I’d like you to meet my girlfriend Veronica.”

Ivar instantly wished he had ordered something stronger than coffee. He didn’t want to believe for a moment that you would choose to be with someone like Harald but you did warn him before that he hardly knew you.

In his opinion, the Fishmonger wasn’t much to be desired. And if it was money you were after, Ivar’s funds could have kept your excessive shopping addiction quelled more than the mere pennies the other man had. He knew he could satisfy you in that way and others.

Patiently sitting back in his chair, he watched as you politely smiled while you shook hands with each of his brothers. Hvitserk was unaware how close he was to a dinner knife to his thigh after lingering a second too long while kissing the back of your hand. Fortunately, Harald had the good sense to pull you away.

Ivar balanced his weight on his cane as he stood up to introduce himself, taking a risk and gently caressing his thumb against your hand. “Lovely to meet you, Veronica.”

Although you said nothing back, he didn’t miss the small smirk that briefly graced your face letting your alleged boyfriend lead you to your seat.

“I hope you boys don’t mind her being here. I know we try to keep these meetings to ourselves but I’ve been a little busy and this beautiful thing has been missing me.” He kissed the back of your hand, causing you to giggle. “Didn’t even want to take my card and go on a shopping spree.”

“I swear you won’t even hear a peep from me.” You promised, miming zipping your lips closed while you took a seat across from Ivar. “Harry’s shop talk ends up sounding more like gibberish to me anyway!”

Ivar had to focus to not show his confusion when he heard you speak. The words coming out of your mouth sounded as if they were dipped in saccharine and nowhere near the lower sultry tone he was used to. He hoped to himself that you would stay true to your promise and remain silent.

Unfortunately, promises meant nothing to his brothers.

“So what do you do for a living, Veronica?” Sigurd asked while cutting into his beef tenderloin.

You gave him a closed smile, dabbing the corners of your mouth with your napkin as you swallowed your last bite. “Oh my goodness! Nothing as important as what you gents do! I worked in this cute little boutique over in Vestfold before Harry whisked me away!”

“Wow, you must have made a killing in commissions.” Ivar couldn’t resist this opportunity to make you sweat, if that was even possible.

He was sure that hint of confusion on your face seemed authentic to everyone else. “No? Actually, I worked hourly...”

You were cut off by an annoyed groan from Ubbe as he rubbed his face, the food on his plate was barely touched. “Harry...I mean Harald, why did you call this meeting?”

“You couldn’t wait a few more minutes until we were done eating? I’d expect mommy to have taught you some manners.” Harald sighed and tossed his napkin on the table before leaning back in his chair.

Ivar didn’t miss you curling your hand around your knife. The tension surrounding the table definitely wasn’t missed by you.

Before Ubbe could respond, Halfdan had cut into the conversation. “Look, we know the last meeting didn’t go well.”

“Actually, you shot one of our men in the head.” Hvitserk stated, staring at Harald as he made his point.

Halfdan quickly interjected, “One of our captains went rogue. Was convinced by some mysterious buyer to deliver your last load of weapons to them. Don’t worry, we took care of the problem”

The younger Lothbrok brother stayed silent while his brothers voiced out their displeasure. You took a sip from your glass, your eyes cutting back and forth to the men surrounding you.

“Oh, did you?” Ubbe questioned incredulously. “Because there shouldn’t have been a problem in the first place.”

“Yes, we did.” Harald finally broke his silence with an emphasis on every word. “The man liked a good drink...a little too much. It was unfortunately only a matter of time until he drunkenly stumbled off his boat. I’m sure the medical examiner we paid off would attest that it was accidental drowning. As for the guns, they’re on another boat with a crew we know we can trust.”

“The buyer? Do you think it was the Saxons?” Sigurd suggested to the table.

“No, they thrive on letting it be known when they screw us over. I suspect they either are or know someone close. In either our circle or yours. I just hope our actions show that we are loyal and can be trusted.” Harald regarded that last statement to Ivar, knowing his silence throughout the exchange meant he was the one he had to win over.

The young man grinned as he sat back in his seat “You know, before you got here, my brothers were saying they didn’t think you deserved any part of our profits but I personally think a five percent cut of every successful shipment is reasonable.”

A smirk slowly spread against Harald’s face. “I think that sounds very reasonable.”

----

Ivar slowly made his way to the front of the restaurant. The remainder of lunch was uneventful other than the mindless chatter of Hvitserk and Sigurd asking you 20 questions. Ubbe promptly left after taking care of the bill and with so few words.

He rolled his eyes in disgust as he watched Harald wrap his arms around you, not even trying to be modest as his hands grabbed your ass. He had to fight the urge to not cut the man’s hands off for touching something that belonged to him.

You squealed and playfully swatted his chest. You gave a quick glance at Ivar as he slowly approached. “Baby, I’ll meet you outside. I just need to touch up my lipstick real quick.”

“Okay, lovely. Don’t be too long, we have a plane waiting on us.” He pressed a quick kiss on your lips before letting you go. He walked out of the restaurant, not even noticing that Ivar was close by.

Your heels clicked on the marble floor and you peeked over your shoulder toward Ivar, giving him a small grin before you made a quick turn into the washroom.

Ivar looked around to make sure there were no eyes on him as he made his way in the same direction as you. He didn’t expect his brothers to worry too much about him. He would’ve been surprised if one of them had waited for him especially since he took his own personal town car to the restaurant.

Before he could even walk through the door, you yanked him in by his tie then pushed him against the adjacent wall. He barely had time to react when he felt your lips against his own. He wrapped his arm around your waist and groaned when your hand tugged down on his locks.

Usually you enjoyed taking your time kissing him, teasing with a soft touch of your hand at the back of his neck, savoring every small whine he made when you nipped on his bottom lip. But today was different as you rushed to deepen the kiss. Both of you knew that if you were gone too long, Harald would come hunting for you.

When you broke away from him, you looked into his eyes, stifling a soft giggle. “Hi there, handsome.” You teased, your voice finally back to normal.

“Gods, that voice you were putting on was annoying.”

“I don’t know. Harald seems okay with it.” You pushed yourself away from him, walking over to the sink and pulled out a tube of lipstick from your clutch.

Ivar stayed put against the wall, watching as you leaned over the sink to look yourself in the mirror.

He repeatedly tapped his cane on the tile, “Is he why you said no?”

“Said no to what?” You stayed focused on reapplying the red color on your lips. You couldn’t help but laugh when you looked up and saw the annoyed look Ivar was giving you.

You smooth a finger around your lips, cleaning up any smudges. “I’m not his girlfriend, Ivar. He thinks I’m the very expensive call girl he hired to keep him company over the weekend. Just your basic girlfriend experience.” You dropped the lipstick back into your clutch before closing it with a snap.

“Your client wants him taken care of?” He walked over and propped his hip against the counter next to you. “That would save me some money in the long run. One less brother to pay.”

“No…” You looked down at the porcelain instead of looking him in the eyes. “I’m just collecting information on him by any means necessary.”

“Any means necessary?” While Ivar usually admired your dedication to committing to your undercover work, he found himself not liking the idea of you following through on this one. “Y/N, please tell me there’s a target on his head.”

You quickly glanced up at him through the mirror before turning to lean against the counter. You crossed your arms in front of your chest. “At the moment, no.”

“Goddammit, Y/N” Ivar pinched the bridge of his nose. Though the thought of someone else hands over your body aggravated him, the idea of another man inside of you incited him. “Are you going to fuck him? Have you fucked him?”

“Ivar…you and your brothers were waiting for a reason. It would have been suspicious if the hooker refused to fuck him.” You stated as if that was a reasonable explanation.

“How much is your client paying you? I’ll double it—fuck it, I’ll triple it if you just walk away now.”

“No one is paying me. I’m on my boss’s orders.”

“And who do you work for again?”

“Tsk, tsk. You already know that if I told you, I’d have to kill you and I don’t want to have to mess up that pretty face. Again.” Pressing up against him, you gently brushed your thumb over the faint scar that went across his cheek. A sweet parting gift from one of your earlier encounters with him.

“Tell me what information you need and I’ll get it for you.” He leaned down and pressed his forehead against yours, closing his eyes. “Just...just don’t go with him.”

You cradled his face in your hands. For a brief moment, there was a look that Ivar had seen on your face before, a mixture of pity and sadness. You shook your head then pressed a gentle kiss on his lips before you walked away from him.

“Please don’t hate me, handsome.” Through the wall length mirror ahead of him, he saw you turn to face him after pausing at the closed door. “You can be mad and you can curse at me until we’re old and grey. Shit, you could even throw another knife at me but I think it would hurt me more if you hated me.”

You waited a moment for him to say or do anything, but when all you got was silence, you walked out of the door.

Ivar took a deep inhale to try to calm the anger that was beginning to flow through his body. He turned toward the mirror, his knuckles going white as he grabbed onto the edge of the sink. No care when his cane falls to the ground with a resounding smack.

When he was younger, he had got into some trouble after he hit a classmate with a rock. The therapist his Uncle Floki took him to after the incident told him to try counting to ten whenever he saw red.

He closed his eyes, letting out an exhale at every count in his head.

On five, he could see you.

Six, Harald slowly walking up behind you.

Seven, him taking you into his arms.

Eight, his tongue sliding up your neck.

Nine, his hand trailing down to your center.

Ten, you softly moaning out Harald’s name.

Ivar screamed out in rage and punched the mirror. He didn’t even notice the pain in his fist until his breathing evened out. He straightened out his tie the best he could with the distorted reflection in front of him. Flexing his injured hand, he reached over and grabbed one of the towels laid out on the counter, wrapping his hand in it.

If Harald didn’t have a target on his head before, he fucking did now.

——

Tags: @xbellaxcarolinax @castielsangelsx @revolution-starter @momowhoo @peachyboneless @punkrocknpearls

@love-all-things-writing @peoniesandbooks5 @spotgaai2000 @walkxthexmoon @youbloodymadgenius @trip2themoon @zo3st3rmonro3

Vikings fic: The Best of Everything   ||   modern!Ivar x reader

A modern!Ivar AU

Ivar x f!reader

CW: swearing, lots of bad language and shit talking, threats and verbal abuse, standover tactics, intimidation. Mentions of gentrification. 

Synopsis: Your dad’s bar is a local landmark, your pride and joy, your livelihood. But Lothbrok Developments also has it in their sights. You’ve managed to resist their dirty standover tactics for months now, but when their infamous CEO Ivar Lothbrok gets involved do you even stand a chance? A fiercely independent and practiced businesswoman, you’re stubborn as hell with a reckless tendency to speak your mind, so you like to think you can handle anything the blue-eyed businessman throws at you.

But, in reality, you know it’s never that easy to resist temptation.

Thank you to @leilabeaux​ for the inspiration and cheerleading, and help storyboarding. You’re an absolute treasure, sis. 

Tag team: @deans-ch-ch-cherrypie​ @youbloodymadgenius​ @serasvictoria​ @quantumlocked310​ @alexhandersen-marcoilsoe-fandom​ @teishalicious​ @heavenly1927​ @oldglitterstory​ @pomegranates-and-blood​  @ivarsgard​ @lordsexmachine​ @quietborderline​ @xbellaxcarolinax​ @aprilivar​  @carlandonorri-s​ @theanxietyqueen17​ @illyrianhighfaerie​ @crazybunnyladysworld​ @funmadnessandbadassvikings​ @onyxskeleton29​ @katfett​ @grimeundglow​ @beware-thecrow​  @zuxiezendler​ @southernbe​ @love-all-things-writing​ @a5hl3y5ibley​ @alicedopey​ @oddsnendsfanfics​ @ecarroll1978​ @ritual-unions-gotme​ @mrsalwayswrite​ @peaceisadirtyword​ @revolution-starter​ @peachyboneless​ @pokeasleepingsmaug​ @istorkyou​ @youbelongeverywhere @that-virgo-witch​ 

Please message me or ask if you would like to be tagged or if you’d like to be taken off  

——————

Chapter One

There’s a whiteboard above one end of the bar, covered in writing. Most of them are motivational quotes, scrawled in all different kinds of handwriting. Some are funny, some are poignant, but there’s one that stands out to you: 

The happiest of people don’t have the best of everything, they just make the best of everything they have. 

It’s kind of your life motto. Well, that and something about glasses being neither half-empty or half-full; they’re always refillable. And yeah, it’s cliched, it’s corny, but it’s kind of true. 

This bar isn’t much, but it’s yours. It started out as your dad’s. You lived in the flat above the bar until you turned fifteen and went away to school, and all your childhood memories revolve around this place.

Keep reading

He totally took the cardigan home and cuddled with it while he fell asleep. I know this to be true!!

Vikings Fic: The Best of Everything - Chapter Three   ||   modern!Ivar x reader

A modern!Ivar AU

Ivar x f!reader

CW: swearing, lots of bad language and shit talking, threats and verbal abuse, standover tactics, intimidation. Mentions of gentrification. Minor sexual content.

Synopsis: Your dad’s bar is a local landmark, your pride and joy, your livelihood. But Lothbrok Developments also has it in their sights. You’ve managed to resist their dirty standover tactics for months now, but when their infamous CEO Ivar Lothbrok gets involved do you even stand a chance? A fiercely independent and practiced businesswoman, you’re stubborn as hell with a reckless tendency to speak your mind, so you like to think you can handle anything the blue-eyed businessman throws at you.

But, in reality, you know it’s never that easy to resist temptation.

Thank you to @leilabeaux for the inspiration and cheerleading, and help storyboarding. I love you more than I love cake. 

Tag team: @deans-ch-ch-cherrypie​ @youbloodymadgenius​ @serasvictoria​ @quantumlocked310​ @alexhandersen-marcoilsoe-fandom​ @teishalicious @heavenly1927 @oldglitterstory @pomegranates-and-blood  @ivarsgard @lordsexmachine @quietborderline @xbellaxcarolinax @aprilivar  @carlandonorri-s @theanxietyqueen17 @illyrianhighfaerie @crazybunnyladysworld @funmadnessandbadassvikings @onyxskeleton29 @katfett @grimeundglow @beware-thecrow  @zuxiezendler @southernbe @love-all-things-writing @a5hl3y5ibley @alicedopey @oddsnendsfanfics @ecarroll1978 @ritual-unions-gotme @mrsalwayswrite @peaceisadirtyword @revolution-starter @peachyboneless @pokeasleepingsmaug @istorkyou @youbelongeverywhere @that-virgo-witch

Please message me or ask if you would like to be tagged or if you’d like to be taken off  

Catch up! Chapter One | Chapter Two

————————-

Chapter Three

It’s not often Ivar Lothbrok is lost for words, but he’s thankful now that he is practiced in schooling his face into expressionless blankness at the drop of a hat. 

He stares straight ahead for a while, pretending to watch where they’re going, trying to calm his racing heart, his shallow breath. The scent of shampoo reaches him, and he glances sideways at you, noticing for the first time your hair is wet. Like you were fresh out of the shower. Where you’d been naked. 

Oh, Gods. 

He swallows thickly and closes his eyes, taking a deep breath, letting it out slowly as he tries to regain some sort of semblance of composure. 

Bloody Hvitserk was right. 

Keep reading

Good thing Ivar has very strong arms. Very useful for when he keeps digging himself into a hole. 😅😅😅

Vikings fic: The Best of Everything - Chapter Four  ||  modern!Ivar x reader

A modern!Ivar AU

Ivar x f!reader

CW: swearing, lots of bad language and shit talking, threats and verbal abuse, standover tactics, intimidation. Mentions of gentrification. Sexual content.

Synopsis: Your dad’s bar is a local landmark, your pride and joy, your livelihood. But Lothbrok Developments also has it in their sights. You’ve managed to resist their dirty standover tactics for months now, but when their infamous CEO Ivar Lothbrok gets involved do you even stand a chance? A fiercely independent and practiced businesswoman, you’re stubborn as hell with a reckless tendency to speak your mind, so you like to think you can handle anything the blue-eyed businessman throws at you.

But, in reality, you know it’s never that easy to resist temptation.

Thank you to @leilabeaux​ for the inspiration and cheerleading, and help storyboarding. I love you more than I love cake.

Tag team: @deans-ch-ch-cherrypie​​ @youbloodymadgenius​​ @serasvictoria​​ @quantumlocked310​​ @alexhandersen-marcoilsoe-fandom​​ @teishalicious​ @heavenly1927​ @oldglitterstory​ @pomegranates-and-blood​  @ivarsgard​ @lordsexmachine​ @quietborderline​ @xbellaxcarolinax​ @aprilivar​  @carlandonorri-s​ @theanxietyqueen17​ @illyrianhighfaerie​ @crazybunnyladysworld​ @funmadnessandbadassvikings​ @onyxskeleton29​ @katfett​ @grimeundglow​ @beware-thecrow​  @zuxiezendler​ @southernbe​ @love-all-things-writing​ @a5hl3y5ibley​ @alicedopey​ @oddsnendsfanfics​ @ecarroll1978​ @ritual-unions-gotme​ @mrsalwayswrite​ @peaceisadirtyword​ @revolution-starter​ @peachyboneless​ @pokeasleepingsmaug​ @istorkyou​ @youbelongeverywhere​ @that-virgo-witch​ @not-another-viking-fanfic-blog

Please message me or ask if you would like to be tagged or if you’d like to be taken off  

Catch up! Chapter One | Chapter Two | Chapter Three 

————————–

Chapter Four

Your heart takes a long time to calm down. Sitting at your desk, you stare at your computer screen for a while, then, realising you’re not going to get any work done while your mind is on him, you close the screen and head out into the bar. 

It’s not a particularly busy day, even for a Saturday. There are no football games on and the weather is good so most people are out enjoying it. Your regulars come in around dinner time and it’s a pleasant relief to sit and chat with them. 

Finally, around ten-thirty, the last person leaves and you start to close up for the night. You’re about to take the till out to the safe when you hear the old bell above the door chime. 

“We’re closed, sorry,” you call out, not looking up. “But I can get you a take–”

You pause when you hear the click-drag of his uneven gait over the tiled floor. Immediately, your brain starts to short-circuit in a supernova of conflicting emotion. 

“Come to apologise?” you ask, not looking up. 

Keep reading

Vikings fic: The Best of Everything - Chapter Five  ||  modern!Ivar x reader

A modern!Ivar AU

Ivar x f!reader

CW: swearing, lots of bad language and shit talking, threats and verbal abuse, standover tactics, intimidation. Mentions of gentrification. Guise, this is where the smut starts to kick in. Also, there’s a lot of swearing, verbal abuse and some throwing of things in this. REMEMBER: Aunty Pearl says VIOLENCE IS NOT THE ANSWER. 

Synopsis: Your dad’s bar is a local landmark, your pride and joy, your livelihood. But Lothbrok Developments also has it in their sights. You’ve managed to resist their dirty standover tactics for months now, but when their infamous CEO Ivar Lothbrok gets involved do you even stand a chance? A fiercely independent and practiced businesswoman, you’re stubborn as hell with a reckless tendency to speak your mind, so you like to think you can handle anything the blue-eyed businessman throws at you.

But, in reality, you know it’s never that easy to resist temptation.

Thank you to @leilabeaux​​ for the inspiration and cheerleading, and help storyboarding. I love you more than I love nice whiskey. And that’s a lot. 

Tag team: @deans-ch-ch-cherrypie​ @youbloodymadgenius​ @serasvictoria​ @quantumlocked310​ @alexhandersen-marcoilsoe-fandom​ @teishalicious​ @heavenly1927​ @oldglitterstory​ @pomegranates-and-blood​  @ivarsgard​ @lordsexmachine​ @quietborderline​ @xbellaxcarolinax​ @aprilivar​  @carlandonorri-s​ @theanxietyqueen17​ @illyrianhighfaerie​ @crazybunnyladysworld​ @funmadnessandbadassvikings​ @onyxskeleton29​ @katfett​ @grimeundglow​ @beware-thecrow​  @zuxiezendler​ @southernbe​ @love-all-things-writing​ @a5hl3y5ibley​ @alicedopey​ @oddsnendsfanfics​ @ecarroll1978​ @ritual-unions-gotme​ @mrsalwayswrite​ @peaceisadirtyword @revolution-starter @peachyboneless @pokeasleepingsmaug @istorkyou @youbelongeverywhere @that-virgo-witch @not-another-viking-fanfic-blog @ivarhoegh @ironynoticony

Please message me or ask if you would like to be tagged or if you’d like to be taken off  

Catch up! Chapter One | Chapter Two | Chapter Three | Chapter Four

—————————

Chapter Five

It’s a full four days before you hear someone clear their throat, and you look up to see Ivar leaning against the door frame of the cool room. 

You had kind of hoped he would show up. Truth be told, if he hadn’t shown up that morning, you probably would have gone looking for him yourself. 

The end to your date had left a sour taste in your mouth, a thousand things unsaid, both good and bad. You wish you hadn’t bitten right away to his self-loathing, or his jumping to conclusions, or his name-calling; whilst you were generally known for being hot under the collar when the right buttons were pushed, you were also level-headed in confrontations, good in a crisis. There was just something about Ivar Lothbrok that brought out the worst in you. 

You stare at him for a while; he offers you a thin smile, then steps away, heading in the direction of your office. With a sigh, you turn back to your stock inventory; you’re not chasing him, no way. He can wait while you finish. He can sweat.

Ten minutes later, he appears again. 

“I bought you lunch, you insufferable woman,” he snaps, “come and eat it before it gets cold.”

“This frigid bitch is used to cold things!” you call after him petulantly. 

The sound of his laugh echoing down the hallway to you makes you grin as you tick off the kegs of Heineken from your list. 

Keep reading

Hvitty, bro no don’t chase her! You need to run far, far away because Ivar is going to make sure you die a very horrible death.

Vikings fic: The Best of Everything - Chapter Six  ||  modern!Ivar x reader

A modern!Ivar AU

Ivar x f!reader

CW: swearing, lots of bad language and shit talking, threats and verbal abuse, standover tactics, intimidation. Mentions of gentrification. I’m so sorry everyone. This is almost pure smut from start to finish. There’s a bit of plot but only at the end. Also, there’s a lot of swearing, verbal abuse and some throwing of things in this. 

REMEMBER: Aunty Pearl says VIOLENCE IS NOT THE ANSWER.

Synopsis: Your dad’s bar is a local landmark, your pride and joy, your livelihood. But Lothbrok Developments also has it in their sights. You’ve managed to resist their dirty standover tactics for months now, but when their infamous CEO Ivar Lothbrok gets involved do you even stand a chance? A fiercely independent and practiced businesswoman, you’re stubborn as hell with a reckless tendency to speak your mind, so you like to think you can handle anything the blue-eyed businessman throws at you.

But, in reality, you know it’s never that easy to resist temptation.

Thank you to @leilabeaux for the inspiration and cheerleading, and help storyboarding. I love you more than I love nice whiskey. And that’s a lot.

Tag team: @deans-ch-ch-cherrypie​ @youbloodymadgenius​ @serasvictoria @quantumlocked310 @alexhandersen-marcoilsoe-fandom @teishalicious @heavenly1927 @oldglitterstory @pomegranates-and-blood  @ivarsgard @lordsexmachine @quietborderline @xbellaxcarolinax @aprilivar  @carlandonorri-s @theanxietyqueen17 @illyrianhighfaerie @crazybunnyladysworld @funmadnessandbadassvikings @onyxskeleton29 @katfett @grimeundglow @beware-thecrow  @zuxiezendler @southernbe @love-all-things-writing @a5hl3y5ibley @alicedopey @oddsnendsfanfics @ecarroll1978 @ritual-unions-gotme @mrsalwayswrite @peaceisadirtyword @revolution-starter @peachyboneless @pokeasleepingsmaug @istorkyou @youbelongeverywhere @that-virgo-witch @not-another-viking-fanfic-blog @ivarhoegh @ironynoticony

Please message me or ask if you would like to be tagged or if you’d like to be taken off  

Catch up! Chapter One | Chapter Two | Chapter Three | Chapter Four Chapter Five

——————

Chapter Six

You snort in amusement, getting to your feet and grasping his hand to pull him up. “You’re the one who smashed the light,” you remind him, sliding your feet across the ground in the direction of where you think the staircase is. You kick something hard and it goes clattering across the floor.

“Here, use my phone,” Ivar mutters; you grope in the darkness for it as he turns on the flashlight. It takes the pair of you a while but eventually you make it to the landing and up into the kitchen. You wish you could say that getting to his bedroom was any easier with light and clear passage, but truth was it really wasn’t. You’re like a pair of teenagers whose parents weren’t home and you only had a few hours to fool around. 

Keep reading

THE ANGST!!

It warms my evil little soul! Can’t wait for all the groveling and pleading Ivar’s going to have to do!

PS. I love you more than chocolate chip cookies hot and fresh out the oven! 🥰🥰🥰

Vikings fic: The Best of Everything - Chapter Seven  ||   modern!Ivar x reader

A modern!Ivar AU

Ivar x f!reader

CW: swearing, lots of bad language and shit talking, threats and verbal abuse, standover tactics, intimidation. Mentions of gentrification. Not as much smut in this chapter. But Ivar is still as dense as a brick. A little bit of smut, not a lot. I don’t know whether to be relieved or apologise.

REMEMBER: Aunty Pearl says VIOLENCE IS NOT THE ANSWER.

Synopsis: Your dad’s bar is a local landmark, your pride and joy, your livelihood. But Lothbrok Developments also has it in their sights. You’ve managed to resist their dirty standover tactics for months now, but when their infamous CEO Ivar Lothbrok gets involved do you even stand a chance? A fiercely independent and practiced businesswoman, you’re stubborn as hell with a reckless tendency to speak your mind, so you like to think you can handle anything the blue-eyed businessman throws at you.

But, in reality, you know it’s never that easy to resist temptation.

Thank you to @leilabeaux​ for the inspiration and cheerleading, and help storyboarding. I love you more than I love puppies. Cute puppies. Danish puppies. Okay I took that too far. 

Tag team: @deans-ch-ch-cherrypie​ @youbloodymadgenius​ @serasvictoria​ @quantumlocked310​ @alexhandersen-marcoilsoe-fandom​ @teishalicious​ @heavenly1927​ @oldglitterstory​ @pomegranates-and-blood​  @ivarsgard​ @lordsexmachine​ @quietborderline​ @xbellaxcarolinax​ @aprilivar​  @carlandonorri-s​ @theanxietyqueen17​ @illyrianhighfaerie​ @crazybunnyladysworld​ @funmadnessandbadassvikings​ @onyxskeleton29 @katfett​ @grimeundglow​ @beware-thecrow​  @zuxiezendler​ @southernbe​ @love-all-things-writing @a5hl3y5ibley @alicedopey​ @oddsnendsfanfics​ @ecarroll1978 @ritual-unions-gotme @mrsalwayswrite @peaceisadirtyword​ @revolution-starter @peachyboneless @pokeasleepingsmaug @istorkyou @youbelongeverywhere @that-virgo-witch @not-another-viking-fanfic-blog @ivarhoegh @ironynoticony

Please message me or ask if you would like to be tagged or if you’d like to be taken off  

Catch up! Chapter One | Chapter Two | Chapter Three | Chapter Four | Chapter Five | Chapter Six

————————

Chapter Seven

Hvitserk’s voice echoes up the stairs behind you as you take them two at a time. Ivar is sitting up in bed by the time you burst through the bedroom door. 

“The fuck?!” he exclaims, scowling. Looking around, you clock a shoe and quickly pick it up and hurl it at his head. He ducks, then rolls sideways off the bed and onto the floor, naked as the day he was born. 

“You motherfucker,” you fume at him through clenched teeth.  

“What the fuck is wrong with you now?!” he yells, peeking up over the side of the mattress. 

“You lied to me!” Your voice rises shrilly, echoing around the house and probably down the street, but at this point you have no further care for airs and graces. “You’re still angling for my bar. You’re fucking unbelievable, Ivar. An absolute fucking con artist. I can’t believe I fell for it. You didn’t mean a fucking word of it, did you?!” 

You lunge for him, darting around the side of the bed, but he’s quicker than you, rolling across the mattress back to the other side. Before you can change direction and go after him, he’s heading for the bathroom with sweatpants in hand. As you reach the door, you hear the lock click into place. 

“Y/N, you need to listen to me,” he yells through the door, barely audible as you hammer on it with your fists. With a frustrated screech, you turn and slam your back against it, sinking to the ground. 

“I don’t want to listen to another fucking word that comes out of your mouth, Ivar Lothbrok,” you bristle, tears prickling at your lashes; you wipe at them angrily. 

“Well, you’re fucking going to have to because I have your fucking car keys,” he yells. With a curse, you slam your fist against the door, screeching again with rage.

Keep reading

Deceitfuldevout's Vikings Masterlist:

❤️ = Fluff

🔞 = Spicy/Nsfw

🖤 = Dark

❌ = No warnings/Sfw

One-shots:

What Makes A Woman? - Dark!Ivar x Lagerthasdottir!Reader: 🔞🖤https://www.tumblr.com/deceitfuldevout/703920915905396736/what-makes-a-woman?source=share

Apex - A/B/O!Vikings AU:Dark!Ivar x General!Reader: 🔞🖤 https://www.tumblr.com/deceitfuldevout/703921560316198912/apex?source=share

Little Bird - An Ivar and Ramsay imagine - Gray!Ivar x Reader x Dark!Ramsay: 🖤https://www.tumblr.com/deceitfuldevout/703922770148540416/little-bird?source=share

Promise Me - Modern!Vikings AU: Dark!Ivar x Reader: 🔞🖤 https://www.tumblr.com/deceitfuldevout/703924864080281600/promise-me?source=share

His Name is Ivar - Dark!Ivar x Ex!Reader: 🔞🖤❤️ https://www.tumblr.com/deceitfuldevout/703982568381546496/his-name-is-ivar?source=share

Play Me a Tragedy - Dark!Ivar x Wife!Reader: 🔞🖤 https://www.tumblr.com/deceitfuldevout/726280849102962688/play-me-a-tragedy?source=share

Series:

Dear Brother - Modern!Vikings AU: Dark!Ivar x Reader: 🔞🖤https://www.tumblr.com/deceitfuldevout/707809377467432961/dear-brother-masterlist?source=share

♥ 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."

♥ Dangerously Perfect Match ♥ || Part II

♥Part I♥

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: 8846

Authors: Cass & Rouge

It's not that you all expected plain sailing, or for winds to be kind, the waves to be gentle; it's that you trusted your ships to carry yourselves to shore no matter the weather. It was a confidence born of faith, of feeling to your bones that with such tenacity you could achieve anything at all. They said it's only impossible until it's done, that was your motto under all skies, upon all seas.

Thankfully, Gods fostered your attempts of getting back to Norway - despite the storms and heavy rain, all the longships made it back to the homeland.

A smile spread across your lips, it was good to be back home.

Dressed in your usual attire with addition of a new warm cloak gifted by Ivar, you stood at the front of your ship. Holding the ropes tightly you turned to your troops. "We made it, friends! Gods blessed us and allowed us to return home so we can fight yet another day!,” You yelled and your people's voices reared loudly.

Ivar kept his eyes fixed on you since the moment you left England. He wasn't truly happy with you sailing among your warriors but it's your decision, with which he couldn't argue. They needed their Earl after all. He rolled head back to rest it against the wooden edge of the boat.

"Land sighted, master!," One of his men shouted.

"Drop the canvas," Ivar ordered as he propped head on the edge of the boat to admire the beautifulness of the shoreline.

Of course, his glance also moved to look at you. Oh, how he missed your body next to his.

Hvitserk's tone pulled him out of thoughtfulness. "Are you sure it's a good idea? Harald Finehair isn't a person you can fully trust."

"I trust no one," Ivar snapped back. "I have the last say."

You walked among your people, gently touching the shoulders of your warriors. It was a simple gesture, a little bit of a comfort and small thanks for their loyalty.

For now this was all you could do, to show your gratitude toward them all.

The ship moored in Harald's docks. You heard a lot about him and his ambitions, and honestly you expected much more from his settlement.

After jumping off of your ship you let out a sigh of relief. Solid ground under your feet. "I hope you didn't miss me too much, Ivar?," You asked him with a cocky smile which was partially hidden by your mask. Since it was damaged in the battle you didn't bother to fix it or make a new you. It was enough your scars weren't fully visible.

Ivar's blue eyes glistened in the rays of the setting sun, and his long lashes casted a little shadow on his clearly defined cheeks. "You need to answer this question to yourself, dear Earl."

After these words he passed you, offering you a mischievous grin as he did.

Hvitserk, who jumped out of the boat on the pier, gave you a long glance, his brows cocked. "Why are you questioning such an obvious thing?"

The red line on his nose reminded you about your last true interaction back in York. "It's called teasing, Hvitserk. Men love it. It's time to learn it."

Humming, you quickly boarded the ship that brothers traveled in. You crouched in front of the bishop and gently caressed his cheek to see if he even survived the long trip.

Man instantly reacted to your touch; he winced and spat right into your face. "Get off me, heathen whore."

You flinched and growled, wiping the spit of your face. Getting up to your feet, you pointed at one of your men. "Bring me one of my furs." Once the fur was in your hands, you wrapped it around the man that just insulted you. "Since Ivar has big predictions when it comes to you. The last thing we want is you getting ill."

Bishop was glaring up at you, not being sure whether you were mocking him or not. Your behavior was completely out of anything he could have expected. Deep inside Heahmund appreciated the fur being wrapped around his shoulders as he was cold.

"Now. You should be all warm," you muttered, tucking the fur in all the right places to shield him completely from the bitter cold. "Now, you can say that a heathen whore helped you." After those words you simply walked away to join Ivar and Hvitserk.

Two men tugged on the ropes wrapped tightly around his neck and wrists, pulling bishop behind them. He hated his position, but it was still better than death from pagans hands.

Harald groaned annoyed, getting comfortable in his throne. Last thing he expected or really needed was Ragnarssons visiting him. He already knew that young Ivar meant troubles. King watched them walk inside the great hall.

Hvitserk was the first one in, taking a comfortable for him spot on one of the tables, while Ivar shuffled behind with his crutch.

To his surprise there was one more visitor; a young woman in a mask. Suddenly the visit became much more interesting. "Ivar and Hvitserk Lothbrok. Why did you not return to Kattegat? I can also see you brought an interesting guest," Harald said with his deep, hoarse voice, pointing his finger at you.

Ivar stopped at the podium and leaned his weight on his crutches. "She's my guest," he said, pointing his chin on you. "You know we couldn't return to Kattegat. That witch, Lagherta, is still a Queen. Me and my brother are looking for alliances that could let us overtake the throne. The throne that belongs to us."

Harald raised from his throne and walked closer to the guests, nodding his head. "Ah, yes. As I can see your need for revenge on Lagertha is burning with a flame that will never go out." King smiled and took your hands into his much bigger and warmer palms. "I know the sons of Ragnar but I have never seen you with any of them. Who are you?"

"My people call me Earl Wolf but my name is Y/N. It's an honor to meet the future king of whole Norway," you said with your voice sweet as honey.

"The pleasure is all mine, Y/N," Harald said before placing a kiss to your palm.

Ivar kept his face straight but the fact you let Harald touch you pierced his heart like a cold needle. "Can we get to the planning? I am not going to spend another hour waiting for you two to exchange pleasantries," young man growled.

Hvitserk, who observed the entire situation while standing in the back of the chamber, snorted quietly. He would never think his brother fell in love so easily.

"Ivar. You brought a beautiful woman in and don't even let me take all of her beauty in," king rolled his eyes.

"As a lady, you flatter me but as the Earl I need to agree. We came here in important matters," you said. "social talks can wait until much calmer times. I can promise you we will have a moment for ourselves."

Listening to you, Harald smiled softly and nodded. "Beautiful and smart. Let's get to planning then. Ivar, I am listening. What do you expect?"

Ivar turned head to throw you a cold glance; did you just plan to spend some time with Harald? Did you really say it aloud in his presence?

"Let's get somewhere where not many curious eyes are on us."

Hvitserk, seeing how his brother and rest are moving to another chamber, followed them.

Oh, Ivar was mad. This is exactly what you wanted, your plan was to rile him up and to see if something interesting will happen. You followed them to be present during the planning.

Talks were long and boring.

Ivar and Harald were arguing for a long time and it wasn't about troops anymore.

The youngest Ragnarson wanted to be the king of the Kattegat after chasing Lagertha, Bjørn and Ubbe away.

At the same time Harald wanted to carry on his great dream of ruling whole Norway.

Thankfully, in the end, they somehow found a way to agree on something.

"You will be a king but when you die the title is passed on me," Harald said, rubbing his forehead.

You let out a little yawn and rubbed your eyes tired. Travel and long boring planning took a toll on you.

Hvitserk didn't say anything during talks; instead, he ate at least four apples and was playing with his little dagger which he used to cut the fruits. It wasn't his thing, all the great planning. All he wanted to do was to return back to Kattegat which was his true home. He didn't really want to stand against Bjørn or Ubbe, but did he have other choice? The decision was made the day he got out of the ship to join his youngest brother.

Ivar put his chalice on the table, nodding briefly at Harald's words. "Sounds like we have it. Just don't be surprised if I'll rule for many long years." The Boneless got up from the chair he sat at and using his crutches, he slowly walked off.

"My men will take care of that Christian prisoner of yours, Ivar," Harald said. "Whatever his point is. If I were you I would just kill him."

You let a soft sigh and decided to join Hvitserk, silently asking him for a piece of an apple.

"But you're not me," Ivar smirked widely at Harald and left.

Hvitserk was highly surprised by your request, but of course, as he had a good soul, he shared one huge apple with you, cutting it in half so it would be easier for you to eat. "You're welcome," he muttered slightly.

"Thank you, Hvitserk. You are a kind soul," you gave him a sweet smile and looked at Harald. "My king? May I know where I can find our prisoner?”

When you received the seeked answer, you bowed your head and walked off.

Bishop was held in a barn, tied to a metal pole in the middle which provided the stability to the roof and construction itself.

His hands were weak as he was forced to hold them above his head for the entire time. The blood circulation faltered and he barely could feel his fingers anymore. Yet, bishop Heahmund was praying quietly. Man was saturated with the intelligent energy of countless prayers - as such being able to carry out supernatural acts. "Credo in Deum Patrem omnipotentem, Creatorem caeli et terrae; et in Iesum Christum, Filium eius unicum, Dominum nostrum...," He was whispering all the time.

You stopped in the door and watched him, praying, it was quite an interesting sight.

"Those have to be a made up babble. No one speaks like this," saying this, you stepped inside and smiled seeing your fur on him, so you dared to point it out. "They let you keep it."

"What do you want, heathen?," He asked weakly. "If you came to kill me, I'll gladly accept my faith. I'm ready, in my God.

As if nothing ever happened, you simply placed yourself on his laps. "You know... I am just a heathen to you but I do have a real name. Maybe I should call you Christian from now on? What do you say, Heahmund?” You presented him the piece of an apple you got from Hvitserk and smiled innocently. "I also brought you this."

"Get off me, woman," he tried to kick you off, but your hips pressed to his side's strongly, holding him motionless. "I don't need your mercy!"

"It's not a mercy. It's called help, you Christian don't know what it is?," You asked with a smile, purposely pressing your hand into him. "Come on, I am sure you are hungry."

He indeed was hungry. Heahmund parted his lips, waiting for you to slip a slice of apple into his mouth.

"Good boy. See? I am not so bad," you chuckled and slipped the slice into his mouth. "I'll get you more if you will want."

He chewed viciously, gagging himself with a not fully chewed piece of the fruit. Truth was he was starving for the last few days and he would give everything for a piece of bread.

"Slow down, we are not going to starve you. I'll make sure of this," you said quietly, touching his shoulder.

He almost gasped as the skin under his clothes were bruised and swollen.

"Right, they got you bad during that battle. Maybe I should undress you and take care of these injuries?," You asked in a hushed voice. "I am sure you would feel much better. You need to be in good shape since Ivar has great plans for you."

Bishop's eyes fixed on your face. He hated your touch on his body but you didn't try to kill him.

Looking him in the eyes your hand started to unbutton the upper part of his armor, not breaking the eye contact for even one second.

Little did you know a pair of incredibly blue eyes were watching your every move. Ivar leant his forehead against the wooden wall of the barn, clenching teeth and rolling palm in a fist. He offered you everything, yet you were still chasing the fucking, useless priest. What man had that he didn't? He felt a strange thing, a twinge of envy.

Slowly you pulled away the armor and hissed, seeing his injury. "Oh, you poor thing, just look at what they did to you." You hand gently touched his skin, making sure to not press the blue and purple spots.

You could hear noises outside the building.

Bishop's eyes widened as he looked past you.

Three warriors, every of them armed in axes walked out of the darkness of the room. "Earl Wolf, you're going with us. Now."

You glared over your shoulder with bored and annoyed look

"What do you want, huh? I am busy, who is even summoning me in such a terrible moment?," You almost growled.

"Now," one of the men repeated and showed the exit with his ax.

Rolling your eyes you let out a loud sigh. "Maybe we will return to that. Only Gods know."

You adjusted Bishop's clothes as much as you could before getting up from his knees. Turning to the warrior you shrugged. "Lead the way," you said and followed them.

They walked in a silence through empty paths of settlement, eventually stopping in front of a little hut almost at the edge of it.

One of them pointed at the door and they turned with their backs to the building.

There was not much you could do but follow this game but honestly you were also really excited to see what is hidden behind the door. After taking a deep breath, you stepped inside.

The hut seemed empty and the only source of light inside were candles standing on the shelves around the chamber and hanging in the metal candle holders attached to the ceiling.

The sweet scent of mead filled the room, and you could spot a chalice full of alcohol placed at the table.

On the right side of the hut there stood a bed with many furs on top of it; it looked inviting. In the end the place was cozy and warm. Next to the chalice you found a piece of paper with one word written on it: UNDRESS.

You walked around the place. It was interesting, who set it up? There were two possible options. Harald who looked really interested in you or Ivar wanted to return the favor from York. That could be fun. Taking the chalice you sat down on the bed.

After drinking a few little sips of the really tasty mead you started to undress.

This actually felt good, as much as you loved your clothes the thick leather was annoying after too many hours in it. Naked, you laid down on the bed and waited.

Suddenly, the candles standing closest to the bed faded away. Then, the candles at the table, and the last to fade were the ones in candle holders.

You sat up and frowned. "Great," muttering, you lied back down, you weren't going to light those candles again.

And then, out of sudden, you could feel a soft touch on your ankle, followed by a hum. Your body's first idea was to react and protect yourself by kicking whoever tried to sneak on you but somehow you stopped yourself. The muscles only twitched a little. Giggling you shook your head. "Ivar, love. Don't do this, I do not want to hurt you."

"Prescient, aren't you?," His voice husky as he crawled fully out of the shadows. His hand placed against your leg and moved up , to rest on your knee as he brushed his full lips against your calf.

You let out a short laugh and hummed. "No other man would do such a thing for me. I am more than sure it was you. Besides, I recognized your hand, love."

Oh, if you could only see the grimace on his face. He continued to brush his lips against your soft, delicate skin until he reached your thighs. Only then he let go of your body and focused on getting on the bed, which was easy for him after all those years of crawling and supporting his upper body part on hands.

"But to send armed guards for me. That was... Interesting idea and the whole preparation for this? I feel like a real princess, you surprised me," you hummed and removed the mask that was still placed on your face. It won't be needed anyway.

He didn't reply, just slipped one of his hands between your thighs, forcing you gently to parted legs. His skilled fingers pressed to your pussy, where he rubbed little circles. "Was it wise to tease me with King Harald?"

"For this all? Of course it was," you said with a humor in your voice and opened your legs to give him as much access as he only needed. "I loved your face, this was my goal, sweetie."

"Was it?," He whispered as his fingers slipped lower to be gently shifted inside of your pussy. "Mmm, nice and wet."

"Yes it was. Everyone can fuck but build it up? It makes stuff more fun and pleasurable," you answered his question and let out a quiet sound. "Wet for my king."

He rolled to his side and to his belly in the end, diving right between your legs. He trailed the tip of his tongue up and down your clit, offering you a few long licks, then Ivar wrapped his mouth fully around your pussy, sucking on it lightly.

You gasped and let out a quiet moan. He was learning fast, he was making you proud.

He let you put your legs on his strong shoulders as he continued to eat your pussy out, humming in appreciation of the taste you left on his tongue. Soon, his mouth was accompanied by two of his slender fingers, slipping rhythmically in and out of your slick cunt.

"You like it? Don't you? You love it after our first night," you said playfully. Your hand moved into his hair to keep him close the whole other hand traveled up your breasts to tease your nipples.

Ivar growled which sent a little vibrations to your slick pussy. He placed a kiss to it and spat on it to make you even wetter than before. His fingers in you were joined by his long, skilled tongue as he tried his best to lick your inner walls and suck in your sweet juices.

His action made you shiver and moan for him even louder. Biting your lips hard,  you nuzzled to the furs beneath your body, focusing on the pleasure he was giving you.

He fingered you until you cum hardly around his fingers. Ivar gave one last lick and sucked his fingers clean, murmuring. "Oh, sweet Y/N, you taste so fucking sweetly I could eat you all day and night long."

Ivar placed kisses to your tummy and licked his way up your body, catching one of your nipples between his teeth, as gently as possible.

The climax washed over you and you tried your best in calming down your breath.

You muttered at the feeling of his mouth and teeth around your sensitive flesh. "I would like to taste myself... Can I?”

Ivar continued with licking his way up your body and finally his lips crushed on yours, and he slipped his tongue past your lips so you could taste yourself.

You returned the kiss and moaned loudly at the sweet taste of your own juices. Dominating his kiss was no use, he was too much into it, both of your hands moved into his hair which to your own surprise were completely loose.

Suddenly, a cold, sharp blade was put to your neck. "I distinctly remember saying I don't like to be mocked," he whispered into your ear.

You gasped loudly and your lips parted. "Ivar... You could warn me that you want to add a knife to bed," swallowing heavily, you could feel the blade against your skin.

"If I would there would be no fun, sweetheart," Ivar kissed your cheek. "Did you enjoy yourself with him? Huh? Did you?," He asked and the blade was pressed more to your skin.

It hit you then. He probably saw you with the Bishop or someone told him. You laughed loudly. "Oh, so this got you going? It made you so angry you planned all of this? Just to pin me down with a knife to my neck?"

"Maybe," he whispered. "I just want to remind you that you're mine, I marked you as mine back in York, and nothing is going to change it."

Ivar hid the knife in his pocket and got off the bed.

You giggled and looked at him while biting your lips. Even if you already knew that Boneless was crazy enough to kill, it didn't frighten you at all. To be completely honest, this action brought a different reaction for you. "I know I am yours. I have never claimed the opposite. You are my lover, my future king," you voice was a soft pur that you knew he loved. Your inner thighs rubbed together in the seek of any friction.

He used his crutches to get to the table and sat on the chair. He refilled the chalice you drank from and downed it quickly.

His eyes glistened in the darkness in a dim moonlight falling onto the chamber through a little window. He was watching you. "Yet you still seemed to seek some adventures. Who is going to be next to be blessed with your body on top of them? Harald? Or maybe my sweet, crazy brother? Or maybe you'll fall for Bjørn?"

You hummed, pretending to think. Your teasing game continued. "King Harald would be a fine adventure, I can already imagine what he sounds like in bed; thanks to that voice of his. Ironside... I heard he is big as a bear, it could be a lot of fun to ride him. Hvitserk... Not really the type of a man I enjoy."

Ivar smirked to himself in the darkness. Oh, he was jealous already, that if you continue, he would simply bathe his dagger in your blood watching how the last ounces of life escape your flesh.

Suddenly, the door opened and a young thrall stepped in. Ivar didn't look at her yet gestured for her to come closer.

You sat up on the bed and watched them with your eyebrow raised.

As the girl brought another jug filled with taste mead, she put it carefully on the table and circled the chair Ivar sat on to gently place her palms on his shoulders. She started massaging him, earning a long moan from him.

"What's your name, sweetie?," Ivar asked, his tone low.

"Katia, my lord," she replied.

"How many springs have you lived?"

"17, my lord."

"The younger the better," Ivar turned his head to the young thrall and pulled her into a short kiss.

You watched them, completely taken aback by his action. Honestly, you felt proud of him in some way. Just a few weeks ago back at York he was all shy and unsure of himself, only to do this. Of course Ivar knew what he was doing because it worked. It worked too well.

The jealousy burned deep inside of you, he gave you a taste of your own action.

Ivar grabbed the woman by hand and pulled her into his lap.

Young thrall pulled her shirts up and straddled his lap. Her arms wrapped around his neck. "I never knew I'll be so close to Ivar the Boneless himself, my master."

"Because you won't be for much longer," you growled as you got up from the bed to move closer to them. Your hand moved into her hair and grabbed a handful, pulling her head away. "Listen to me now, child. If you won't get off him right now and leave, I will make sure to cut you in all of the right places to make sure now man will ever touch you."

That's what Ivar hoped for. "You heard the lady," he looked at the thrall but let himself cup one of her boobs briefly. "Leave now, but stay tuned for maybe you'll be needed to warm my alcove one day."

Young girl hissed but obeyed your words. She got off him and smoothened her dress, quickly leaving.

You chuckled watching her run off.

Humming softly you placed yourself on his lap, and immediately moved into his long, dark hair. "Look at that. Ivar the Boneless, a man who a few weeks ago was afraid to lie with a woman for the very first time. Now is making her envy. Don't you know such a woman can be unpredictable, boy?"

"Is that so sweet Y/N?," Your name rolled from his lips as he moved his head closer to your naked body, inhaling your scent as he brushed his lips against your collarbone, his hands in gloves stroked the curves of your waist.

You giggled and continued to play with his hair, scratching his scalp with your long nails. "Oh yes, just as unpredictable as men can be. I think we saw both today."

Your hands moved to his throat and your small palms wrapped around it, squeezing it a little. "I could strangle you now," you whispered as your grip got a bit stronger. "And I should do this, for a knife you pressed to my throat and that thrall but you are lucky enough that I love you."

He kept face straight, chucking darkly at your sudden outburst. "Oh, I think I need to play with thralls some more as it's keeping you going," he whispered and parted his lips, tracing the tip of his tongue along his perfectly shaped teeth.

"I need to visit our prisoner often too," you nodded with a smile. "I still wish to have him in my bed at least for once... As long as he is loyal to my man and his orders."

Ivar's hand moved to grab your hips strongly. "You're such a tease," he mumbled deeply.

You laughed and rolled your hips against him as your hands slipped to his shoulders. "But it gets you going. You love the idea of misbehaving. It makes you jealous and it leads you to anger," you leaned over to whisper against his lips. "And this, my love, leads you to your desire."

He couldn't pretend any longer; you kept him going. A short moan left his parted lips, and his eyes widened a little.

"Ah! There you go. You couldn't keep it up for too long, huh, Ivar?"

With a soft giggle you slipped off of his laps and placed yourself on the floor right between his legs. It was time to return the favor.

He looked down at you while letting a sad gasp out. His palm was placed to your cheek. "You're like no other woman I met in my short life. You make me lose my head, all for you."

You smiled at him sweetly, nuzzling to his palm. "Maybe because you didn't meet the right ones." Your hands moved down his chest and started to work on his pants so you could move them enough to free his member. "You are like no other men I met in my life. You are brave, ruthless and strong despite your flaws. Wonderful leader, lover and warrior."

He smiled. "Come to me, little one," he demanded in a husky voice.

You didn't like this exact order. All you wanted was to make him feel good but still you followed his order, placing yourself back on his laps. "Your wish is my command, my king."

He reached his hand down his body to guide his cock into your cunt. As he did, he let a loud moan and rolled head back, his hands slipped into your hips to hold you strongly.

A soft moan passed your own lips. Even when he worked you hard back in York, you still felt so fucking tight around him. "Fuck... Ivar," you gasped, grabbing the chair back.

He rested his forehead against your chest, letting out some deep gasps when you were slowly going up and down his shaft.

Your hands moved into his hair, scratching his scalp and keeping him as close to you as possible. Soon you started to move faster, moaning and pulling on his hair.

Ivar let out a long, deep grunt as you tugged on his hair. His hands moved down to rest on your ass as he squeezed the flesh hardly, moaning and brushing his lips against your chest.

When you realized he enjoys the hair pulling you let out a soft laugh and used it to pull his head back so you could kiss him deeply.

Ivar stole a kiss from your lips and parted his, gasping harder and harder as he chased his climax. Soon, he milked your pussy, grunting and groaning as he did.

You moaned his name out at the delightful feeling of his seed flooding your cunt. This triggered your own high and your walls tightened around him.

Ivar's arms wrapped tightly around your waist, his forehead rested against your collarbone, he gasped, a few drops of sweat rolled down his neck and forehead.

You smiled and wrapped your arms around him, just to keep him as close as only possible. Humming quietly, you started to play with his hair. "I love your hair, you should be called finehair," you whispered and giggled at your own joke.

He didn't reply as he was buried deep in his thoughts and he was only about to get off his peak. "Yeah," he managed to mumble softly, nuzzling to you.

You chuckled and massaged his scalp, letting him relax and calm down right in your arms after such a strong climax. "You okay there, Ivar?"

He raised his chin and looked you up right in the eyes. "Yes. Go to bed, I'll join you soon but I have one more thing to deal with."

You frowned softly, cupping his cheek. "Like what?"

"I need to speak to my brother. Nothing much. You stay here and warm bed for me."

You kissed his cheek and nodded. Slowly, you remove yourself from him, growling at the feeling of emptiness. "As you wish, love."

The bed was soft and warm thanks to all the furs. You got comfortable and nuzzled to the pillow. "Don't leave me alone for too long or I will have to go and pay our prisoner another visit."

Ivar shifted his floppy cock back into his pants, and growled playfully at your words. "Don't you be worried about that, I won't be long."

He took his crutches and slowly got up from the chair, throwing you a cocky smirk before leaving. Ivar headed to another hut, located almost at the docs. We stepped in without knocking, just like he had it in the habit of his.

Girl that was currently kissing Hvitser jumped in her place and gasped before looking right at Ivar.

It was one of your shield maidens, the one that took most interest in older Ragnarsson back at York.

Hvitserk sighed deeply, seeing his brother. "Brother, as much as I love your company. This is not the best moment," he said and the girl nuzzled to him, hiding from Ivar's eyes.

Ivar offered the girl a brief nod. "Mmm, you're fast like a lightning, brother," Ivar claimed and shifted a chair for himself, placing it right next to the bed. His blue eyes shifted to the girl. "Be a good, little thrall and leave us for a moment."

"I... I am not a thrall. I am Earl Wolf's shield maiden," girl said.

"Go, Asta. Wait outside, we won't talk for long," Hvitser said, patting her shoulder.

Soon the girl was gone and Hvitserk looked at his brother annoyed. "So! What was so important that you decided to interrupt me right now?"

"Hold your horses, brother, you'll have her pussy soon," Ivar frowned as he moved his glance to make sure the girl closed the door. "Remember our last talk? The talk about relationships and things?"

"Yes, I do but I am still not sure if we really did have this time. You are asking for advice when it comes to relationships and bed... Could be just my drunk dream," Hvitserk muttered, crossing arms over his chest. "What about it, Ivar?"

Younger brother used his crutch to poke his brother's thigh. "Can you not be a dick for once in your lifetime?," Ivar asked, frowning hardly, he ran his other hand through his messy hair. "It worked. And I need to know more of those."

"Ivar. I am glad that it worked but I really don't know what else to tell you," Hvitserk said with a shrug. "Tell me about her."

"Like, listen to this, brother," Ivar was excited at the single thought about things he performed with you. "The things you advised me in your drunken state worked, what I mean is that after eating her out she was more eager for other things. Let's not pretend, you're not only older but many women came and went through your bed, so I hate to admit it, but you're more experienced than I am."

Hvitserk laughed and nodded, rubbing his chin with pride. "Well, of course I am. Just... I can tell she likes it rough. So just go with that, Ivar. Listen to her."

Ivar tilted his head like a puppy while listening to the owner. "How can you say such a thing when you haven't seen her?"

"Then why do you ask me what to do when I haven't seen her in action?," Hvitserk asked with a roll of his eyes. "Listen. Every woman is different, you just need to observe and follow your intent or heart if you are really in love... And have heart."

Ivar didn't comment on his brother's words, he only nodded and got up from his spot. He patted Hvitserk's cheek. "Thanks. You can be useful from time to time."

Asta watched Ivar left the hut and immediately went back inside to join Hvitserk.

Ivar took some time to enjoy himself in the cold air. He walked slowly back to the hut Harald had let him stay in. Door was open so he walked in.

You were already asleep, covered with furs.

Ivar took the sight in, smiling to himself, feeling like his heart was melting for the sweetness overload. He put the crutches on the floor quietly, he got undressed and crawled to the bed. As carefully as it was possible he got on and spooned you from behind.

The following week was filled with preparations for a great battle. Everything had to be just right.

The days were filled with planning and training with your people, making sure they all are ready for the upcoming battle.

Of course whenever you found time you liked to bother the Bishop who actually was free now and somehow agreed to fight on your sides of the conflict.

You screamed out Ivar's name as you both reached your climaxes. The remarkable feeling of his seed filling you because some kind of fixation for yours. You seeked it every night and he was happy and eager to satisfy your common needs.

Humming quietly you lay down on his chest and started to trace random patterns on his chest. "It's tomorrow. I can't wait to leave this place and set a camp... And get ready for the battle," You growled playfully.

Ivar's arm was wrapped loosely around your waist, his fingertips rubbing little circles on your belly as he held you close. "Don't be scared, Y/N, the seer predicted we'll win the battle easily," Ivar assured you and kissed the top of your head. "There's no need to be worried, dear. It's just a formality."

You laughed and looked at him with a cocky smile. "Me? Scared? You're joking! I am more than ready to fight, our last battle in York was so much fun! I craved more since that day."

He looked down at you and pecked your lips briefly. "I would never say you're more bloodthirsty than I am."

You giggled against his lips before kissing that one sensitive spot on his neck. "Is that bad? Is some... Boring, dress wearing, royal lady would be better for you? You dont like me the way I am?”

He moaned at the touch of your lips on the most sensitive spot on his neck; his grasp on your waist tightened. "You're perfect just the way you are."

"Let's get some sleep, love. We need to be rested for tomorrow." You kissed his cheek and then nuzzled to his chest, closing your eyes. Soon, you drifted into slumber.

Travel was exciting.

Everyone was ready for that great fight so were you.

To be honest you couldn't wait, fighting and then ruling by Ivar's was your dream ever since you two clicked just perfectly back in York.

In the camp as well as during negotiation with Lagherta and his brothers you stood there proudly, being by his side and supporting his action.

You fought for him just like you did in York, doing your best to tip the scales of victory on your side.

The battle was long and of course there was a lot of death and suffering.

Just like Ivar assured you that one night, you won. Kattegat was yours and you couldn't be more happy.

The Great Hall opened its door for the new king.

Ivar entered the familiar chambers for the first time since months. He felt like the very important part of his childhood was restored to normality.

People weren't truly keen on the change on the throne, but they could do nothing about it.

Ivar's royal warriors took care of those who didn't want to hail the king. Ivar took a place at the throne that once belonged to his father.

You laughed loudly walking in with Hvitserk and King Harald close behind you, all of you bathed in blood of your enemies.

"You did it Ivar, you won your home back. I need to say I am jealous now!” Harald joked.

You walked around, inspecting the inside of the Great Hall. You already loved the place.

"Of course he did. How could you doubt him."

Saying this you walked closer to your lover and sat on the throne right beside him.

Ivar offered you a smirk, yet tilted his head. "Y/N, what do you think you're doing?"

"Well, I am getting comfortable in my throne, love?," You answered, returning the smirk. "Just as we talked in York. We will be the most powerful couple in the world."

He rolled a little in his place, so he leaned his forearms against armrest. "We? A couple? We were never a couple, sweetheart. I just needed your troops."

You frowned deeply, looking into those beautiful blue eyes you so loved. "Excuse me... But. Your promises, the nights we spend together. Our plans for the future."

He laughed loudly, he didn't really pay attention to the fact there were people in the chamber. "Darling, I would never say you're so silly. You wanted to be fucked so I provided that to you. I just had to make sure you won't change your mind in the day before the battle. Now, get off the throne, it's not yours. You can go back to your sweet, lovely settlement. You're my vassal from now on, I expect you to pay 500 gold pieces every year. If you won't follow, I'll have to flatten your little place to the ground."

You got up from the throne, your eyes never leaving him. How could he do this to you? You shared so much from the past to the future. Did he really lie to you... Why it hurt more than the wounds you suffered during the battle. "Is this some kind of a cruel joke? Because if it is, then better stop, Ivar."

"Do I look like I am joking?," He asked, the smile vanishing from his face, leaving a cold grimace and raised eyebrow as he glanced at you. "Get out of my face."

You couldn't believe it. All the nights you shared, sweet words, the love and dreams... It all was his way of taming you. His way of making sure you will follow him until he achieves his goals. Your heart broke like a thin ice under a pressure. "You are a terrible man, Ivar the Boneless. Ragnar is ashamed of such a son. One that can't keep a promise and can't even avenge his mother fully. I will dance the day you die!” You didn't mean any of those words, it was the pain speaking through your lips. Just like he wanted, you turned around and left the Great Hall.

Hvitserk threw his brother had a cold glance and followed you. "Stop, Y/N! Earl, stop!"

Meantime Harald stormed to the freshly announced king. "What the hell are you doing, Ivar? She is a great warrior, she brought a lot of people, you can't simply send her away and push her off our common matter."

"Our? Mine. Nothing is ours, everything is mine now," Ivar chuckled darkly. "Go on, you can take her. She's nothing but a puppet."

You stopped and pulled out your sword, pointing it right at older Ragnarsson. Your face looked serious but the tears rising in your eyes were visible. "What do you want, Ragnarsson? Came to tell me how stupid I am for trusting your brother?” You growled loudly.

"I had no idea what he was planning for all that time," Hvitserk instinctively raised hand up in the air, showing you he was unarmed. "Don't leave, I bet it can't be discussed and explained."

"Discussed? Explained?! What can be, Hvitserk?! He used my love, my feelings for him to get the troops for his plans," You said, desperately trying to hold your tears. "I wanted to stay here for him but I won't be a rug he can use and throw away as soon as he is done."

"Stop it, you can't leave! You're the only person who still keeps him on the straight and narrow!"

"HOW I DO THAT?!," You yelled as loud as your lungs let you, slowly lowering your sword as your body became too weak suddenly. All the emotions you felt and the post battle injury mixed together now.

"He threw me away as soon as my help became useless for him. I was never needed, coming to York was the biggest mistake of my life."

"Come," not being sure whether it was proper to do, Hvitserk wrapped arms around your figure, offering you his shoulder to lean on. "Take me with you then," Hvitserk asked openly. "I don't want to stay by his side, he's not a sane person. Please. I'll do whatever you order."

You nuzzled to his shoulder, wrapping your arms around him. All you needed now was some kind of closeness, of course you wished it was Ivar but he didn't care any longer. You started to cry into his shoulder, pawing at his back in an attempt to grab something in your hand.

"Now, move," he reminded you. "Let's not wait for him to change his mind and order his hellhounds to burn us alive."

Oldest Ragnarsson led you to the stable where your horse ate hay. He helped you hop on the animal. You sighed deeply, getting comfortable in the saddle. Rubbing your eyes you looked at him. "Thankfully my men are ready to go too," You said, grabbing the reins. "Let's leave him with his wonderful kingdom. Harald can deal with him."

"I don't think he is going to stay either," Hvitserk pulled his horse out of the box and got on his stallion's back.

"I have no idea who would want to stay with him now. Kattegat will burn under his lead," You muttered as your horse moved.

You quickly collected your remaining troops and then you all were on the way home. "Hvitserk?"

Hvitserk, whose horse galloped right behind yours, lined up with you. "Yes?"

"Don't you regret it? Leaving your own youngest and well... Creppled brother? For a woman who broke your nose?," You asked, looking at him.

"No," he replied hardly, being sure of his words. "I was afraid of my dear life. It was the most reasonable decision I've made in my lifetime."

"Let's hope you will feel much better in my home," you told him with a soft smile.

The trip took three day but it was worth it.

Your settlement made you feel better just because you were back home but there was still this void, somewhere inside of you. It felt even worse when you how your warriors greeted their families. Their smiles made you wish you could feel something like this.

Of course, people were happy to see their Earl and you returned to happiness but it wasn't the same.

You led Hvitserk into the Great Hall and as soon as you entered a big wolf's fur was placed on your shoulders, the hood that was made out of the wolf's head was pulled on your head. You laughed and looked at Hvitserk.

Hvitserk didn't think he could be greeted so warmly anywhere. Your people offered him not only furs and good words but also a roof over his head.

You sat on your throne and smiled, looking at your people. Tears will have to wait until you close the door to your room, now it was time to be Earl. "My friends, my warriors, my people. I can't describe how happy I am that God blessed me and our warriors with the chance of returning home," You said loudly and got up. "We lost many but many returned. Tomorrow there will be a feast to welcome the one that returned and honor the one that did not. I also want to introduce my special guest."

Hvitserk, as much as he was against the idea, walked closer to you, offering you a nod.

"This is Hvitserk. Son of Ragnar. Welcome him and be treated as your own because as long as he wants to stay with us. He is a part of our pack," You informed and your people cheered.

Hvitserk cleared his throat. "Thank you, dear Earl. Thank you, dear people. I assure you that I'll protect this settlement until the very last blood drop."

You gave him a sad smile. "You will stay here. There is one more room in Great Hall that wasn't used for years. I will order my thralls to prepare it."

Hvitserk bowed his head. "This is too much, my lady. I'll be fine just by staying among your people. I will stay at the edge of the city."

"I don't ask you as a Earl. I ask you as a friend, I want you to stay here. You will have days to get along with my people," You explained.

Hvitserk didn't complain anymore. "Thank you."

"No need to thank me."

Evening finally came and this one felt weird.

Most nights you shared with Ivar and you missed him and his body.

Letting out a deep sigh you get out of the bath and continue with getting ready for the bed. You put on a soft nightdress and brushed your hair. It felt different.

Since you joined Ivar back at York you didn't really have a chance to clean yourself properly. Suddenly you decided to visit Hvitserk so you got up from your bed and went to his room.

You knocked on the door, waiting for a permission to enter. Maybe he already had some girl over.

"Come in."

Hvitserk was sitting on the floor, his legs crossed and elbows propped on knees as he was meditating. He offered you a nod. "Earl Y/N. What have I done that you honor me with a visit? Do you need my help?"

You sat on the floor next to him and chuckled. "Don't start with all that Earl thing, Hvitserk. I am the same Y/N that broke your nose. No need to use my title."

"Don't need to remind me about the nose all the time," he offered you a little too cocky smirk.

"Just trying to remind you that I am no one special. Sorry" You sighed. "And well... I am here because. I felt lonely."

"Being lonely doesn't mean being sad, yet I hear sadness in your tone and see it in your manner."

You raised your eyebrow. "How being lonely doesn't mean being sad?," Shaking your head you shrugged.

"I just used to spend the night with your brother. It felt good, I felt happy... Loved," You already could feel tears in your eyes.

"Don't cry. You can't change him. He's a spoiled brat who doesn't care about people's feelings. You'll find yourself a man anytime soon, just look at you. Young, beautiful, in charge. All men are losing head for you already."

You sighed and wiped your eyes with a short laugh.

"You are losing head for me as well? Who would want a woman with a face like mine. I should cry for how stupid I was to trust Ivar's love."

"It was not stupidity, what you experienced is used to be called love," he smiled softly.

"Was... Was it too much to ask for? To be loved for once in my life?," You asked, looking at him. "Father, left me to die. Mother didn't care enough to protect you. Brother tried to kill me... Man I loved..." You couldn't finish your sentence.

"You're young, you have your entire life lying ahead. You'll fall in love not once, not twice. The pain is temporary, it will pass as soon as you'll sign a truce with yourself."

"I am young with a face eaten by a wolf," you muttered. "I... I have a stupid question."

"No question is stupid if you think about it."

"Can I stay here tonight? With you?,” you asked. "I don't think I can sleep alone... Not today at least."

"Of course. You provided me with a room with a bed for two. But you can take it full."

"I don't want to take it all. I want to share it with you... I don't want to be alone tonight, Hvitserk."

"Your wish is my command," he replied with a little smile.

You smiled and then climbed to bed. Letting out a sigh you nuzzled to the pillow and wrapped fur around yourself.

Hvitserk spent a few more moments meditating. After that he went to wash his face and neck with cold water. The he slipped into bed with you

"Thank you for that. I need to look pathetic... I am the Earl and I act like a child," you said cringing at your own action.

"Don't judge yourself. I don't mind it. I offered you that I can be a shoulder you can lean in."

"Yes, you did," you nodded and moved closer to nuzzle him. "And I am going to use it tonight."

He straightened his arm to make a room for you. As you put your head to his chest, he lightly wrapped arm around your waist.

You got comfortable and hummed quietly, closing your eyes. He was arm and soft, you just wished it was Ivar who would really hug you.

Hvitserk used his other hand to stroke your cheek. "Shhhh, you're going to get through this for you're the strongest woman I saw."

♥ Dangerously Perfect Match ♥ || Part III

♥Part I♥ 

♥Part II♥

Summary: Despite Earl Wolf's life is being flipped upside down, she still finds herself capable of bestowing one particular person with reconciliation and forgiveness

Warnings: Ivar 😈

Words: 10284

Authors: Cass & Rouge

Hvitserk was right - it was getting easier and easier every day. With each sunrise there was less Ivar in your memory and thoughts, he slowly stopped poisoning your mind which made you feel much better.

No more nightmares, no more doubts.

You simply carried on with all the duties of the Earl with Hvitserk by your side. He was really helpful despite your rough beginning. He was always there to help, and be the shoulder you could lean on.

If you only knew how much you would bring back from this whole journey, maybe you would have never decided to go.

Two months after returning home your body started changing, you stopped bleeding which never happened before and your belly started to grow.

After a short talk with your dear friend you decided to visit the healer. There your fears changed into reality.

You returned to the Great Hall and gave Hvitserk a soft smile, poor man was just as worried as you were.

"And what did healer say?," Hvitserk asked, offering you his arm as he gently wrapped his free hand around your waist to lead you back to your room. "You're pale like you'd have seen a ghost or any other mara," Ragnarsson claimed.

You let him walk you to your room, not speaking a word. There, you sat down on the bed and let out a heavy sigh. You weren't really sure how to admit it. Was it good news, or a curse sent by gods to punish you for getting involved with someone like Ivar.

"Well...," You said quietly with a shaky voice. "I am with a child."

"Congratulations," a smile formed on his lisp and he gasped, relieved. "I was worried you're sick. Child is a reason to celebrate and to be happy for Gods blessed you, dear."

You looked at him in disbelief. He was happy. You carried the child of a man that pretended to love you, played with you, used you for his own plans, and then just threw you away like a used rag when you were no longer needed. That man was hunting you for months, every dream and spilled tears reminded you how stupid you were. "Is there really a reason to be happy, Hvitserk? It's his child! What shall I do now?! Return to him like a wounded dog that I already am and beg him to take me back because of his child? He probably wouldn't even believe me! This child is Ivar's curse."

"Wait. Wait," Hvitserk frowned strongly, tilting head. "I know you and him had sex but he's a cripple. He can't have children, I am more than sure about that," he claimed. "Maybe you slept with someone else. It can't be Ivar's child. It can't."

"One more word and I will break more than your nose, Ragnarsson!," You growled at him, getting up from the bed. "Who do you think I am! I am the Earl, not some common whore. Since we returned from Kattegat I haven't slept with anyone else! There was just Ivar, and no one else ever after!"

"For Odin's sake, it breeds...," Hvitserk mumbled under his breath so you didn't hear him. "If he's the father, he should know anyway."

You laughed and shook your head, rubbing the bridge of your nose. "You think he will care? He is a heartless monster, he already proved it by toying me. You good know what he did, in the best case scenario he won't believe it and in the worst - he will try to kill us both."

"Think of what he will do if he finds out one day. He'll ground the settlement, he'll burn your people alive...," Hvitserk lowered his tone, grunting in the end. "Not that I am not happy, I'll be the uncle though, but I rather thought of Ubbe's child, Bjørn's maybe..."

Suddenly you bursted into tears. It was too much for you to handle at once.

Not so long ago you used to live without Ivar and now this happened. You just wanted to disappear, make everyone forget you have even existed. Hvitserk for a second stood still, he wasn't sure whether he should console you or not. In the end, he decided to approach and wrap his arms around your shaking shoulders. He hugged you tight. "I'll take care of you and of the child you're carrying. Don't be worried or sad, you're strong and you'll survive. And, you won't be able to say you're all alone in this world. You'll be the mother. You need to be strong for the baby."

You immediately nuzzled to him, shaking your head as you tried to catch a proper breath. "I can't, Hvitserk... It's his child. It's his... I don't want it. I can't... I don't know how to be a mother."

"You know. You had it written in your womanhood somehow," he assured, gently rubbing your shoulders. "The child didn’t want to come to this world, you both invited him or her, you need to be responsible now. As I said, I'll help as much as possible."

Hvitser was right in some way. "I... I just don't want him back in my life. I wasted enough time with him. He won't use me or the child."

"He won't. I won't let this happen," Hvitserk replied, kissing top of your head. "We'll survive."

As much as you hated to admit it; Hvitserk was right once again.

You never thought that your people can be more caring than they already were but they proved that they indeed could. Since the announcement was made, everyone became even more careful and protective of their Earl. All the women made sure you were okay.

This was something wonderful but all the nice words and assures didn't really change what you felt inside.

With every month the child under your heart grew bigger.

It was wonderful but deep inside you remembered Ivar's action. Everything that led you to this moment. You hated the child for being part of him but there also was part of you in there. You were torn apart.

Everything changed seven months later. After countless hours of bloody and painful labor, the child was welcomed to the world.

It was a boy and as soon as you saw him you knew you would kill anyone who will even try to hurt him.

You didn't care that boy had those piercing blue eyes and dark hair. He was your son and nothing would change that.

This was how little Vali became the part of your life.

In the beginning, you were sure that he was some kind of a curse, something to destroy your life more but after the first two months of motherhood, you were sure he was a blessing.

That one day, Hvitserk came from a little trip on the North; he went to meet with king Olaf who somehow learnt about Earl Wolf becoming a mother. "Y/N?," He asked once he got into the Great Hall. "I brought gifts from the king. He wishes you all the best and he sends his sincere wishes to yours son, too."

You sat on your throne with a Vali proactively wrapped in your arm and furry cloak. "Gifts? From Olaf? That's a great surprise, I'll have to send a messenger to thank him for this all. He didn't have to do this."

Smiling you got up from the throne and walked to Hvitserk. "Look Vali, your dear uncle is back," you hummed and looked at Ragnarsson. "He missed you so much."

"I hope," Hvitserk chuckled in the deep tone of his. He reached under his cloak and pulled out a little bear-shaped toy, made of the finest type of silk. "This one's for you, Vali. Just don't eat it."

You laughed, and took the toy to show it to the little boy.

Vali looked at the toy and giggled loudly. "He loves it. I can already tell we have a new thing that he won't sleep without.”

"That's good," Hvitserk briefly tapped the boy's nose and placed the little kiss on his temple shortly after. "So, maybe now you'll stay with me, so your beautiful mom can have some spare time?"

"Hvitserk, you just got back. Please, go take a bath and rest. I am already done with my duties for the day, so spending time with my handsome, little bundle of happiness is a blessing," you assured him.

"You sure?," He asked but nodded shortly. "Whatever Earl says."

What he needed would never come and no matter how much he seeked, he wouldn't find it.

Ivar wasn't born for great things, nor to find his place in the sun, he kind of accepted it. He could try every day, work for what he wants and needs, but there were no paths to success, not from here, from the abyss of rage and nothingness.

People talked as if he couldn't hear them.

He knew too well they spoke about him being inept in all facets of the ruling.

Kattegat turned into a very dark place since both Earl Wolf and older Ragnarsson left.

People, who were unfavorable to their new leader, were vanishing in pretty questionable circumstances.

Settlement streets were said to be flowing with the blood of enemies of the self proclaimed king.

People lived in terror, hoping everyday they'll be able to witness another sunrise.

Ivar locked himself completely. Trusting only a few people, he spent all of his days within Great Hall, in his bedroom, dreaming of other scenarios, dreaming of what would happen if he didn't send the Earl away.

There was hope before, when she was by his side. Just a tiny flicker against the wind. But not it vanished completely, leaving a painful wound across his heart.

He heated himself for what he decided back then but he couldn't turn the time back.

But the worst was about to come.

When deputy of king Olaf arrived with the very unexpected news about Earl Wolf, Ivar broke completely. Not only did he destroy the place he was born in, and which he used to call home, he randomly stabbed at least two of his guards in a rage outburst.

He had never felt so much rage before as when he learnt she bore a son.

Few days had passed since Hvitserk returned and you felt happy; your little family was reunited.

You were sitting on a furry rug with Vali and tried to tell him a story but the boy was too busy with his new toy to listen to your voice.

"You know, Hvitserk, I was scared before he was born that he will be deformed as his father or that he will destroy my life but now I am ready to protect him with my life," you said and raised your head, looking at the man entering your room.

Hvitserk held a mango in his hand. His glance immediately fell on you and a little bundle of joy placed on your lap. "I told you to not be stressed. He is perfectly fine and will grow into a fierce warrior, just like his mother," Hvitserk cut mango in half and offered you piece.

You gave him a smile and took the fruit. "Maybe when he grows up, there will be no need to fight. Maybe finally the world will be at peace, no need to risk life for a bit of glory or spill innocent blood." After saying that you took the bite of mango and hummed at the sweetness. "I am just happy my fears did not eat me alive and thanks Gods you were here the whole time."

Ragnarsson didn't say anything to comment on your words, he simply took a seat on the chair a few steps away and continued observing how you played with the baby.

"Don't sit so far away from us, Hvitserk. Come and play with us, little Vali wants to play with his uncle," you giggled, and took Hvitserk's hand to gently pull him so he joined both of you on the fluffy rug.

He followed your ask and sat on the floor next to you. His arm wrapped carefully around the baby as you passed the boy to him. Shortly after Hvitserk was laying on his back, holding Vali in his straightened arms, up in the air, gently tossing the boy up to catch him in his arms seconds later, earning a loud laughter and giggling from the boy.

You laughed, watching them. This sight was a pleasure to your heart. Your little boy was healthy and happy, not caring about anything else but fun. He was always taken care of, with his belly full, and it was all he ever needed.

Hvitserk was a blessing, too.

Even if you sometimes wished that Ivar was here, the older Ragnarsson easily stepped into the father role for Vali. Right now, you didn't regret anything that ever happened because this all brought you here, and you were happy with this all.

Hvitserk looked at you with the corner of his eye. "Something wrong? You're staring."

You gasped and used your hands to cover your eyes with a quiet laugh. "Prince Hvitserk, I am so sorry for staring. I just found the two of you playing so cute that I couldn't help myself and watch. Please forgive me."

He couldn't stop himself from chuckling. "Everything is forgiven." He kept playing with the baby. The boy started to reach his chubby hands towards Hvitserk, so the man gently laid the baby on the furs and pretended to attack him. He earned a salve of laughter, so loud that it could pierce the ears.

You laughed with your boy and soon joined them to bathe the baby in the deserved attention and love.

Month passed quickly. With Vali under your care, it passed even quicker than you have ever expected.

The night covered the settlement in the darkness, every place went quiet but not the Great Hall.

When others were getting ready to sleep, you walked around your room with Vali in your arms while humming a lullaby.

The boy was your little treasure but putting him to bed was a nightmare, despite the day full of fun, he didn't want to sleep.

Most nights looked like this, he wasn't in pain or anything like this. He was just fussing.

Suddenly one of your thralls stepped in. "My lady, a deputy from another settlement arrived and claimed he has some news for you."

Hvitserk, who slept in another room already, was woken up by a chatter and rumour in the main chamber so he got up, put tunica on and went to check what was going on.

You frowned and passed the boy to the thrall. "Try to put him to bed or just wait with him here."

Soon. you entered the main chamber. You didn't expect any message from anyone you knew, this was very suspicious. Whatever it was you were ready to fight if needed. Sitting in your throne, you measured the deputy with a cold gaze.

"What new do you bring? What place are you from?"

"I'm coming from Kattegat,. ma'am," the deputy said, bowing his head.

Hvitserk, who entered the chamber and stood next to your throne, frowned.

You froze hearing this, clearing your throat you straighten your back.

"If king Ivar expects more gold from us you can tell him he won't get it. We broke both military and trading bonds between settlements. I won't pay more since we get nothing from the other side."

Deputy lowered his head. "King Ivar was killed by King Aethewulf in England."

You blinked completely shocked by those words. It was hard to believe since you saw his skills, he was simply too skilled to just get killed.

"Who gave you that information? Has anyone seen the body or his death?"

"I, my lady. I and at least one hundred of our warriors who made it back to Norway after unsuccessful raids."

Rubbing your cheek you nodded, still trying to accept the words you just heard. It was hard, you got over him months ago but Vali was this one little string that reminded and connected you to Ivar the Boneless.

"You can go. My people will give you a place to sleep, we can talk in the morning. Now rest, the way here was long and hard."

When the deputy left the Great Hall, you sighed heavily and looked at Hvitserk at your side.

"What do you think? Your brothers are back in Kattegat? Is he really dead or is it some kind of twisted plan to get us?"

Hvitserk looked all sad. "I don't know. But I don't think this man lied to us. He was dead serious. If this is true... If he died... For Odin's sake, I feel sick."

You quickly moved to him to place your palms on his cheeks in an attempt to calm him down. "Hvitserk, my friend. Please, stay calm, take a deep breath"

He did but it resulted in him shivering all over his body. "It can't be true... He was my little brother after all..."

You hushed him and hugged him as tightly as you only could. "I know, I know he was. I also can't believe it. Maybe the man was wrong, maybe he didn't see it right. Maybe your brother is alive... Just lost."

Hvitserk, as much as he hated it, broke fully and started sobbing. "Leave me, Y/N. I just need a walk." He gently pushed you aside and simply went out, don't paying attention to the coldness of the night and to the heavy rain outside.

What else could you do? He needed this, so you let him go, he would come back as he always did.

After a few more minutes of thinking, you simply returned to your room. Vali was somehow already asleep in his wooden crib. "If you only knew how much we lost. All of us," you whispered and placed a gentle kiss on the boy's forehead.

After tucking him in, you sat on your bed and broke into tears. Ivar was gone and it hurt. Despite everything they ever happened, deep down you still loved him.

Hvitserk returned in the morning. He was soaked wet with rain, and so drunk that he simply had a close encounter with the door leading to his room.

Loud bang on the door woke you up. Soon, you were out of the bed to see what even was that. The sight of poor Hvitserk all wet and drunk was really sad. "Oh, Hvitserk. What have you done to yourself..."

He scoffed. "I'm fine, Y/N. I can't find my room. Did you.... T-take it away?"

You let out a heavy sigh, and shook your head. "Girls! Could you please come here?”

Three thralls that you knew he liked the most walked up to you. "What can we do?"

"Take him to his room, bathe him, feed him if he wants, change his clothes and put him to bed, please," you said, and the girls looked at Hvitserk.

"I can do... By my own... I am not drunk," he placed hands on his hips trying to scoff your words but instead he lost his balance and almost fell to the floor.

You chuckled. "Yes, we can all see this. Go with girls. I know you like them, they will help you."

Hvitserk gasped but his hand wrapped around the waist of one of the girls.

All three of them giggled. "Oh, we will gladly help him and take care of him," one of them hummed happily.

Two years passed like sand in an hourglass; quickly and unnoticeable. Some time ago Vali was just a little bundle of joy, and now he was a curious two-year-old. Always asking questions and looking at new stuff with those big blue eyes.

Vali took most after his father, those beautiful eyes and dark hair. Happily, his character was more like yours.

"You think we should throw a feast today? After all, it's boy's big day," you asked, and looked at Hvitserk while playing with Vali's hair.

Hvitserk was sitting at the table, playing with a knife in his hands as he was rethinking your idea. "Yes. We need to feast. This is your son's big day. He needs to feel it, even if he's not too old to understand fully. I asked Katherine to prepare it already."

You laughed and kissed the boy's head. "You see how much your uncle loves you? We will let you sit a bit longer today than. My big, beautiful boy," saying this you hugged Vali tightly.

Hvitserk continued his play with the dagger while observing you hugging your baby boy.

The feast was a tale of how your people loved Vali.

"Above all, this is a feast of our emotions, of our bonds, with the food and mead as the perfect symbol of these everlasting bonds," Hvitserk said happily as he was sitting right by your side, enjoying the party and keeping his eye on the baby boy.

Raising your horn you laughed. "Let's drink, my friends! Let's drink for my son, and my dear friend, Hvitserk! May Gods bless them with love and happiness that they deserved," you said loudly, and the crowd cheered loudly, agreeing with you.

One of thralls refilled Hvitserk's cup and she just stared at him. "Sir, do you need anything else?"

He caught her glance, and a mischievous grin danced in his lips. "What's your name, sweetheart?"

"Astrid, my lord."

You watched then with a smile. It was a common fact that Hvitserk could charm girls with just one smile.

Suddenly a man walked in, you recognized him as one of your warriors. He walked to you to whisper something into your ear. Frowning softly you nodded. "Hvitserk? Someone is asking to see the Earl. Shall we let him in or just send him away?"

Hvitserk narrowed his brows. "Did we invite anyone from outside? I can't recall it. Today is the feast of your lovely son and this is what she should focus on."

"No, we did not but from what he said the person looks for a safe place to stay and heal wounds," you said, bouncing the boy on your knee.

"Maybe we should let him in, see what he really expects?"

"I'll condone your every decision."

You nodded and looked at the warrior. "Bring the person in. I want two guards with whoever it is, just to be safe."

The man nodded and quickly runoff.

"My friends! We will have an unexpected guest! Let's all see why he is here!," you informed people gathered in the Great Hall. "Astrid, please take my boy to my room. He is sleepy."

When the boy was taken to the safety of your room, you got comfortable in your throne and waited to see who the visitor really was.

Ivar wasn't sure of what he was doing.

He couldn't simply get back to Kattegat, now Bjørn was the king and he would simply cut his head off as soon as he would appear on the horizon.

Those months were hard for him. After miraculously getting back from England on a single boat belonging to traders, he wandered through Norway all by his own, trying to find a safe place.

Unfortunately, due to him being a ruthless ruler before, he had more foes than friends and it wasn't so easy to stay calmly in any place.

He hated the fact he had to show up here, in the settlement ruled by Earl Wolf herself.

Soon, your warrior entered the room with the company of the mysterious visitor. The whole Great Hall went quiet, carefully observing the newcomer. All men were ready to fight if needed.

You stiffened hearing the familiar sound. Crutch, step, step, and then again crutch, step, step.

No, he was dead. It couldn't be him unless the Gods decided to torment you more than they already did.

Clearing your throat you did your best to calm down your nerves. "Who are you? And what do you want? Explain your purpose here."

Hvitserk also stopped whatever he was doing. The sound of crutch was too familiar but his brother was long gone. It just had to be some cripple, seeking a safe place to spend the night.

Ivar, with hood on his head, slowly walked until the guards stopped him in the middle of the chamber. After taking a long breath, he slowly took the hood off, raising his head. "I'm Ivar the Boneless and I came to see Earl Wolf."

Hvitserk jolted up. "Guards!," He raised his tone.

More men walked closer to Ivar, ready to protect the Earl.

"Is this some kind of a joke? Or a magic trick? Curse?," You asked with a frown. "Are you the real Ivar the Boneless? The whole Norway let out a sigh of relief when they heard about his death in England, and now you came here, claiming to be him?"

As much as you wanted it to be a joke or curse, it wasn't. It was Ivar himself, he was here, and he stood right in front of you in your own settlement, asking for a safe place. There were many emotions boiling in you; happiness because he was alive, and anger for all that he did to you in the past. You wanted to hug him but at the same time you wished to see him bleed out all over your ax.

"As much as I would love to be feasting with Odin and Æsirs in Valhalla now, I'm not dead in the slightest," he replied.

You could see a large cut on his right cheek, going almost from his temple down to reach his jaw. One of his eyes was fully red.

You laughed, and got up from your throne to walk closer. "Look at this! You all leave the food and look at this, people! Great Ivar the Boneless, the man who used me and my trust, came here, looking for a safe place to stay like a wounded dog he is!" Pulling out the dagger you always carried for safety, you looked at him, and then pressed the blade to his neck. "For all you did to me, I should slit your throat open, and let you bleed out. Just to free everyone from you," you growled.

"Mama, uncle!" Little boy ran out of the room and immediately hugged Hvitserk's leg, hiding from the stranger.

Hvitserk leaned down and picked the boy up, wrapping arms tightly around the little trembling figure. His eyes never left Ivar’s features.

Ivar smiled simply at your words and wrapped his palm around the blade of your dagger, so hard that soon the blood started dropping to the floor. "Go on. Free me."

"On the other hand, doing this will be too easy," you growled, and took the dagger away. Shaking your head, you walked back to Hvitserk. "I guess the thrall couldn't keep the boy away. What do we do with Ivar now?," You asked before placing a comforting kiss on the little boy's head.

"I have no idea, I am just as shocked as you are," Hvitserk whispered, his glance still locked on Ivar.

"To say that I am shocked is an understatement, my friend," you said with a little frown, and took Vali into your arms. Poor thing was shaking from the whole situation and nerves. "It's okay, Vali. Mother is here, you are safe," you whispered, wrapping your furry cloak around the boy to calm him down.

Of course Ivar spotted the baby in your arms. Boy could have at least up to 3 springs, not more for sure. A cold needle of envy pierced Ivar's heart. You had a family you craved that much.

"Take him to that one empty hut. Take away that cursed crutch, make sure to tie his hands together. His legs won't be a big problem. Bring healer to him so she can have a look at his wound," you ordered, looking right at Ivar while holding the child close to your chest. "Feed him if he is hungry. I want him to be guarded day and night."

"All this for a cripple?," One of your people asked loudly. "Look at him! Wounded, in despair. He won't be able to hurt anyone, my lady."

"We should leave him to die in the forest," one of the women claimed. "My dearest son was killed by his side!"

"I fought by his side! I know what he is capable of, never underestimate him. Crippled or not he can be dangerous," you claimed, pointing at Ivar. "I was betrayed by him but I won't lower myself to his position by using cruelty. Take him away, and do as I said. This is an order."

Most people groaned unhappily at the order but they followed.

Ivar was escorted to the empty hut, located almost in the woods.

You let the feast continue but returned to your bedroom.

There was not much sleep that night.

When Vali was asleep right next to you, wrapped in warm furs, you lied there motionless, thinking. You couldn't believe what actually happened that night. The man that was your lover, father of your child, dead man was here. He was alive. Hate toward Ivar was strong, he hurt you so bad but at the same time, he gave you the little treasure you called your son. Not to mention you somehow missed him.

When the morning came, you left Vali with Astrid and went to visit Ivar.

He was all tied up. Your people took good care to wrap ties around his wrists hard enough that after an hour or two he lost feeling in both of his hands, locked high above his head.

Being completely overwhelmed by pain from all the blows he experienced during the night, he fell in complete oblivion before the dawn, his head rolled down as his chin rested against his chest.

You didn't like what you saw when you entered the hut. This wasn't what you ordered. Of course, you wanted to be sure he won't attack you, your child, or Hvitserk but this was too much. By the look around you could tell the healer was never there as well as the food was never delivered, while the hut was also cold. "Guards!," You yelled and waited at them to join you.

Two of your loyal men approached. "My lady?," One of them asked.

"What happened here? Why is he tied up like this? Beaten up? This place is cold, was healer even here?," You looked at them, crossing arms over your chest. "Did he get anything to eat?"

Men exchanged glances. "No. Healer refused to come here, and people took their retaliation in first and twice as nasty."

"Who do you think you all are to oppose my orders!? I am the Earl!," You snapped at them. "You had to guard him! Not let people use him as an old doll. You can tell anyone who dared to touch him that I will find them and take care of them by myself, you two included." Shaking your head you walked past them before giving them one more look. "I go to the healer to get stuff I need. You two better not touch him until I am back."

As soon as Earl vanished from their sight, guards measured themselves with mean glances.

"You know by yourself what they say, that the boy is his," one of them remained his mate and spat on the floor.

You visited the healer's hut to gather whatever stuff needed to take care of Ivar's injury. Maybe you weren't a real healer but taking the fact you were a warrior, you knew how to take care of the wounds. Soon, you returned to Ivar, making sure guards stayed outside.

The sight of him broke your heart, he hurt you but you never wanted him to suffer like this. "As the Earl I feel ashamed. I am sorry that my people treated you like this," you said, undoing the rope that held his hands. "This was not my order."

As he heard any commotion, he opened his eyes. The last thing he expected was your presence in the same chamber. He was highly aware how broken he had left you before, and to be fair, he was secretly shocked with the fact you even tried to help him, in any way. As you undid the ropes, he fell on the floor with loud hiss escaping his chapped lips. He couldn't support himself due to the fact his hands were curled and cold - it was difficult to obtain sufficient blood flow when his hands were tied too tightly above his head for many long hours.

You sat on the floor, and helped him sit up, resting his back against the wall. "I just hope they didn't damage you more. This wasn't my order, I am furious they did this to you."

Ivar looked directly at you but he remained silent.

You gave him a flat smile, and then cupped his cheek to take a look at the nasty wound on his face. Helping him was wrong, you should let your people do what they wanted for what he did to you but you simply couldn't bring yourself to cruelty. Those stupid feelings didn't let you. You started to gently clean the wound, despite his angry hisses you kept your work on it.

He closed his eyes, struggling with the burning pain on his cheek when you pressed the wet rug soaked with some oils and herbs to the wound. It started bleeding immediately. Ivar clenched his teeth, letting out a loud grunt.

"Did you get anything to eat? Drink?," You asked him, still working on that wound of his. He would live, all that would be left after it would be a scar.

"No," he replied in that particular soft tone of his.

Letting out a deep sigh you shook your head, this was unbelievable. How could your own people not listen to their leader, and simply do what they want with a defenseless man? "Guards!," You yelled and looked over your shoulder as soon as they entered the hut. "Take him, and carry him to the Great Hall."

Men gave you a look. "I'm sorry, my lady, but he is the devil himself. Our people don't want him among us."

You rolled your eyes. "Are you deaf? Earl gave you an order, do it or I will feed you to wolves by myself. I am your leader, I decided about his place. Now shut your mouth, take him, and follow me."

Both men with loud gasps entered the chamber and picked Ivar up, each of them wrapped one of Ivar's arms around their shoulders.

The Great Hall was mostly empty, only Hvitserk and two thralls sat around the fireplace playing with little Vali.

You didn't miss the odd looks they gave you once they noticed you entering the main chamber with two guards that carried Ivar right behind you.

They sat him down on a chair near the big table, after that guards left.

"Astrid? Would you be so kind as to stop trying to get Hvitserk's heart? I need you to prepare something to eat for my guest," you said, giving her a flat smile.

Astrid fazed a little but obeyed your command. "Whatever you say, my lady."

Hvitserk looked above his shoulder, his glance immediately went to Ivar. "We were informed you were dead."

Youngest Ragnarsson scoffed. "You wish."

Hvitserk jolted up, and with few large steps he approached the chair Ivar sat on. "What's wrong with you? Don't expect us to be happy with your sudden resurrection after all you had done to us all."

You took Vali from the other thrall, and ordered her to help Astrid with food.

Boy was more than happy to see his mother, he giggled and nuzzled to your chest.

"Hvitserk is right. You did so much bad that I should simply give you to my people and let them decide what to do with you but I am better than this," you muttered, holding the baby close as you walked closer to older Ragnarsson.

Hvitserk offered you a particular glance of his; his eyebrow cocked high, his lips pressed together so they were just a thin line. He looked at the boy you held in arms and then back at you.

Ivar listened to your words but he remained silent.

Vali watched the stranger with his curious blue eyes. "Ma?," the boy cooed and pointed at Ivar.

You chuckled, looking down at your baby. Of course, curiosity was stronger than fear. "Yes, I know."

Ivar cringed inside. The last thing he needed was to deal with the child. He turned his head around to avoid the piercing glance of those blue eyes. If he felt better, he would simply twist his brother's neck for impregnating you.

You asked one thrall to take the boy away and keep him safe. Vali didn't look happy, looking at you over the woman's shoulder.

When they both were gone, you looked at Ivar. "Ivar, talk to us. What even happened? We got a message from Kattegat that you died in England."

"I partly did," he growled deeply, not bothering himself to look at you or Hvitserk.

His older brother after a moment of silence smashed his fist against the table. "Fuck, Ivar, stop being all offended! And reply to questions! We do not have an entire day, and Y/N has her duties, too!"

"Oh, she for sure has," Ivar mocked. "You have a beautiful son," he claimed out of sudden, his steel blue eyes fixed on your face.

Oh if he only knew.

"I know I do and he needs his mother's attention. I am still the Earl, so your brother is right, I have duties, Ivar," you answered, looking him right in the eyes without any hint of fear.

Ivar let out a sharp breath and rubbed his forehead. He felt highly uncomfortable around you and Hvitserk. "I have nothing more to say. I know that you, my dear brother, would happily dance on my grave, but as you can see, I somehow survived," Ivar snapped, looking directly at Hvitserk.

“Stop it. I fucking moured you, you fucking idiot," Hvitserk grabbed Ivar by collar of his tunica. "I am not a heartless monster like you."

You grabbed Hvitserk's shoulder in an attempt of calming him down. "Hvitserk, calm down, please. We both mourned you, Ivar. You have no idea in what state he was for months because his youngest brother was gone. This shocked him to the core, it was hard for him to return to everyday life."

"This is why he decided to get into your panties?," Ivar replied viciously, a sadness in his tone. "How long did it last? While we were a thing?," Ivar grunted. "I would never think you and he would have a baby together."

Hvitserk laughed. "Unbelievable."

You blinked looking at Ivar with a clear shock and surprise in your eyes. "E-Excuse me..." Did he think the baby was yours and Hvitserk’s? Apparently he did and it was the most ridiculous thing you had ever heard in your entire life. You tried your best to keep a straight face but a short laugh left your lips. "First of all, you said it yourself that we never were together, and second, Vali isn't Hvitserk's child, I never slept with him. He was a wonderful friend and father figure but nothing beyond that."

Ivar now felt stupid for accusing you of sleeping with his brother. "You two seem close. I just thought..."

"Even if we were a thing with Y/N, it would not be any matter of yours," Hvitserk reminded coldly. "So you know, I didn't sleep with her."

"We are close but like I said. He was a wonderful help since we got here but we even have two different rooms. Hvitserk is too busy charming the female half of the settlement," you said, and laughed some more.

Ivar wanted to complain some more but a bowl with soup was placed in front of him by Astrid.

Woman shivered when he threw her a glance.

"Thank you," he replied and started eating.

"Keep an eye on him. Make sure he eats and drinks. Find him some new clothes. Girls will help with the bath," you said, patting Hvitserk's shoulder. "I need to go on training grounds. I can already tell it will be hard, they aren't too happy with our visitor."

Ivar spent another three months on healing his wounds, and he happened to have a lot of those.

People got used to his presence among them, yet they still weren't keen on any interactions with him, which resulted in him lurking alone throughout the paths, being talked about and pointed with fingers and piercing glances.

That particular day he went outside, to sit on a huge meadow, he had to gather all the thoughts that were floating within his mind.

How huge was his surprise when he spotted Astrid with Earl's son. They were picking flowers.

"Your mother will love those. They will nicely decorate your shared room," Astrid hummed picking a flower, and showing it to the little boy what earned her a big smile from him.

Vali himself picked a few flowers, and gently put them in the basket set on the ground.

Astrid shivered feeling someone's eyes on them. She loved such little trips but they were stressful. Earl would go mad if anything happened to her only child. Woman raised her head and looked at Ivar before giving him a little nod as a greeting.

Ivar offered her a nod in reply, and continued observing them from a distance. The boy seemed cute and eager to learn about the world. Ivar sighed; he would want to have a child one day but he knew it was impossible.

Astrid returned to picking the flowers.

Soon, the boy was bored with that activity; the stranger was much more interesting.

At some point Astrid was accosted by some other thrall as they started talking. Before she even noticed, Vali walked away to finally get a closer look at the stranger.

Ivar was busy with playing with the tape of his black tunica. He felt uncomfortable as he felt a piercing glance on his features. He raised head up and noticed the boy standing right in front of him.

Boy watched Ivar carefully, and then decided to sit right next to him. He looked up and smiled. "Hi. Flower," Vali said, showing the flower to Ivar proudly.

Ivar cringed at first but his heart melted instantly when the boy handled the freshly picked up flower to him. Ivar took it gently between his fingers and gave the boy a smile. n"Flower. Do you like flowers?"

Boy nodded with a huge smile on his mouth. "You?," Vali asked, pointing at him.

Ivar was completely taken aback by the question boy dropped. "I like them, too," he replied in his usual soft tone. "Where are you mom?"

Boy blinked few times before pointing at the direction of Great Hall. "There," he said, and his attention went to Ivar's braided hair. "Pretty," Vali giggled, and tried to reach them.

Ivar at first tried to move back; he wasn't used to the children being around him, fascinated by the way he looked. After considering the situation, and taking no one could see him being so vulnerable, he leaned forward and turned head aside. It resulted with his braids to fall loose to the side, so the boy could touch them.

Boy gaped excitedly, and gently took the braids into his hubby hands. "Soft! Pretty!,” he giggled, and gently pulled on the to see what would happen.

Ivar laughed. "Gently, like you would pet the dog or kitten," he instructed, and tapped the boy's hand softly.

Boy nodded, and started to gently play with his hair. After he was done Vali pulled away from him to find a new point of interest. Soon he got interested in weird things on Ivar's legs.

Ivar wasn't sure what to do. He hated his lower limbs, but the boy was seemingly interested in leg braces and crutch that was leant next to them. "I'm a cripple," he told the boy though he knew he wouldn’t understand a word. "They don't work," Ivar pointed at his legs.

Boy looked at him confused, and gently touched the braces as if he was again touching his hair. "Hurt? Sad?," Vali asked curiously.

You were scared the first moment you saw that Astrid was busy with gossiping, and Vali was gone but you calmed down as you saw him. Vali was interacting with his father, even if the little boy didn't know that. Instead of stepping in, you decided to observe them.

"Sad, hurt," Ivar replied and made a sad face. "Be happy. Your legs are nice. Chubby and wobbly still but you'll grow into a strong man," Ivar ruffled boy's dark hair.

Boy laughed at his action but didn't like the fact that his new friend wasn't happy. Vali was quiet for a moment before kissing braces on Ivar’s legs, and then got up to hug Ivar. Just like his mom always did when he got hurt. "No hurt."

You smiled, biting your lips. This was something you never expected to see.

Ivar paled. His brain stuttered for a moment and his eyes took in more light than expected, every part of him went on pause while his thoughts catched up. Never before had Ivar noticed how time is so much like water; that it can pass slowly, a drop at a time, even freeze, or rush by in a blink. "Thank you, I feel healed," Ivar replied softly and simply put hands on both sides of the boy to pick him up and sat on his lap. "Comfy?"

Boy nuzzled into him, getting comfortable on his lap and nodded with a short yawn. "Yes. Soft."

Ivar let him rest his side against Ivar's chest. He also yawned. "If you want, nap. I'll keep an eye on you."

Vali nodded, closing his eyes.

You decided to get Astrid's attention pointing out that your son is gone. Poor girl freaked out but you quickly calmed her down, and then sent her back to Great Hall with your shield and ax. After that you approached Ivar. "Comfortable you two?," You whispered.

Ivar looked at you and nodded, putting his fingers to lips. "Shhh. You don't want to wake this little warrior up."

"No I don't. He gets fussy," you nodded and sat next to Ivar. "Ivar the Boneless and child. That's  something new."

"I know, right?," He whispered and wrapped arm around the boy to shield him from rolling off his lap.

You smiled softly looking at this sweet little sight. "Ivar. Can I ask you something?"

He shrugged slightly. "Yes."

"Do you know that a wolf has one mate? One mate for whole life?,” You whispered, looking at him.

"I do, mother taught me and my brothers about that," he replied. "Why? Do you have wolves threatening the settlement?"

You chuckled and shook your head. "Back in York I picked my mate. Man I wanted to spend my life with. Stay by his side no matter what, and it was you,"

"I remember," he replied and started cringing inside. All he needed was you to recall the relationship you two shared.

"You know that since you made me leave Kattegat, I haven't slept with anyone," you said looking down at Vali that was already sleeping in his arms. "You were and still are the only one that slept with me before Vali was born."

"Bishop called it the virgin birth. So, as I assume, you're holy? Or should be considered like one," Ivar blinked, looking at you.

"Ivar I am not a virgin for years. Vali is your son, I found out I am pregnant two months after my return from Kattegat," you announced with a frown. "No virgin birth, no any other man. Just your seed that filled me for months."

Ivar grimaced. "I'm sorry to break it up to you, sweetheart, but I'm a cripple and I can't have children," he whispered loudly.

"Yeah, and you brothers claimed that before England you couldn't fuck a thrall," you raised your eyebrow. "And there you were. Taking me whenever you wanted, however you wanted."

Ivar was about to complain but he went quiet. You were right; his brothers were repeating that he couldn't ever have possessed a woman, yet he did. Which led to the obvious conclusion he could have impregnated you.

You gave him a little smile. "He is your son. This is Vali Ivarsson, son of famous and fierce Ivar the Boneless."

Ivar wanted to pick the boy up and take a closer look but he didn't have a heart to wake this little bundle of happiness. "You mean it?..."

"I swear on my name, reputation and Gods themselves that I mean it," you nodded. "Since our meeting in York till this day, there was no one else in my bed.”

He nodded and went quiet again. It wasn't the news he ever expected to hear. "I'll be visiting him, if you agree but I want Hvitserk to be his father's role. I don't want him to know about me being his father," he said coldly.

"No, Ivar. I won't agree on this, there is nothing he should be ashamed of," shaking your head, you touched his shoulder. "I want you to be here. With me, and with your son."

"No," he replied and shifted slightly in his place, trying to get as far from your touch as possible. "Look at me. I'm a wreck. I always thought that trust must come before love, yet it is not so, for love and trust can arrive at the same moment. When love is given in this way, immediate, no explanations, the trust arrives too. But I broke both your love and trust years ago by sending you out. I shouldn't have done that but I did, and nothing can explain the decision I made back then. Trusts were broken, lies were told. I used you, I did, just to get thing so elusive and unsustainable that I didn't have a chance to rejoice my position as a king for I won it by rage, not by love of the people." He drew a sharp breath and stared at the boy. "I am a cripple. I won't be able to run with him, to show him how to swim, how to sail, how to hunt, how to be a real man. He deserves a good life, better life than I can provide him."

"Ivar," You whispered, moving closer to him. "Things you say are true. You did a lot of evil, and you already paid for it. Gods brought you back to me. Despite everything that happened, for years I hoped you would come back, and you did. We don't know the ways of Gods, maybe you being here is a sign," you looked at Vali and smiled. "Ivar, he won't care about this. He will need his father, the real one, and I know he'll love you the way you are."

He let out a sigh. "I promise to be a good dad to him. I'll do my best but I am scared of failure."

"You won't fail my love. I will be here as well. He is our son and we both will take care of him, and each other," you assured. "I am more worried he will be ashamed of a mother that isn't as beautiful as all the other women... Because of scars on my face."

"And who says it?," Ivar couldn't help but let out a chuckle, pointing on a large scar on his right cheek.

“What is one scare when it comes to my face Ivar," You rolled your eyes, and looked at him, placing your head on his shoulder. "Ivar?"

"So you're not only one that is scared. And you're beautiful. You should know that." When you placed your head on his shoulder, he froze but soon a smile appeared on his lips. "Mmm?"

"I missed you... In every possible way," you wanted to add more but a tiny voice got your attention.

"Mama," Vali said, raising his arms to you. You giggled, and picked the boy up. Boy yawned and looked at you and Ivar with his big blue eyes.

Only then Ivar believed fully; he recognised his own eyes in those of the boy. "I missed you, too... Mommy," Ivar of course had to get on your nerves.

You pointed at Ivar. "This funny man is your father, Vali."

Boy blinked and looked at Ivar. "Papa?"

He offered a slight nod to the boy. "I am, Vali." His son's name spoke loudly, sounded so strangely in his tone but he smiled. "I am."

"Papa!," Boy said happily, and reached for him. You giggled and returned the boy to his father. Vali grabbed his cheek and patted them gently. "Squishy!”

Ivar couldn't stop himself from grinning widely. "Squishy. But you know what's more squishy?" After these words he poked the boy's side. "This. And this," Ivar added while squeezing the boy's cheek.

Boy laughed loudly, and hugged Ivar as tightly as his little arms let him.

You smiled, filling how tears started to fill your eyes. In the end, Ivar rested his forehead against the boy's, they were touching with noses, too. "I love you," Ragnarsson claimed. "I'll never let anything bad happen to you or your mom..."

"Maybe we should get back to the Great Hall? I am sure Hvitserk is worried about us all," you suggested looking at your boys.

"I wish I could give you a piggyback but it would be hard with me using crutch."

"I think he will prefer a chariot rides once he gets a little older," you said, and picked the boy up before helping Ivar get up.

"Hungry!," Vali said loudly.

Sighing, you looked at Ivar. "I think this runs in the family."

Ivar shrugged, and followed you slowly. Today the pain of his legs was almost unbearable, so it took him longer to walk than usual. "Go, go, I'll catch you at the place," he assured.

You frowned and walked closer to him to cup his cheek. "Ivar... Your eyes... I will get you a healer as soon as we get back inside. Maybe she will be able to help you," with the boy in your arms you decided to slow down to not leave Ivar behind.

He had to stop after some time. Ivar gave you a flat smile. "Please. Go back to the house with him, I'll be right back. Don't worry about me. It's nothing, but he's hungry and I don't want to slow you down. Please?"

"Since you are so sure. We will wait at you," you gave him a sad smile and walked away. Vali looked over your shoulder confused of why Ivar stayed behind.

It took him another several minutes to get at the edge of the meadow. The sight was beautiful; your settlement in its full potential. Ivar stood motionless for a longer moment, considering everything that had happened before. He learnt he was a father, that he had a son, the most beautiful and handsome baby boy he had ever seen. He learnt you still had feelings for him; just as he had. He learnt you had given him another chance. A tear streamed down his scared cheek. Then another one and another. "Odin, I don't deserve all the magnificent things you're blessing me with," he whined quietly. "I prayed for death, not for a new life." When he felt his heart rate returned to normal, he continued his way down the hill.

His legs didn't work properly that day, so it resulted in him falling a few times. Thankfully, he didn't break any bone.

While your thralls tried their best to feed the fussy boy, you stood in the big door. Biting your nail nervously you waited at Ivar. Something was wrong, you could remember the stories Hvitserk told you about Ivar and his eyes. You prayed for him to get back safely.

Soon, Ivar reached the Great Hall. He smiled when he spotted you in the door; apparently you've been waiting for him... "Sorry for being late," he excused himself. "Where's Vali?"

"Girls try to feed him. I think he was also waiting for you," you whispered, and looked over your shoulder. "I wanted to be sure that you got here in one piece."

"So here I am," he faked a perfect smile. "May I?," He asked before he stepped inside.

You nodded. "This is your home now, Ivar. Of course you can."

"Papa!," Vali said happily, seeing Ivar. Just then he started to eat like a good boy.

Ivar looked at the thralls who gave him scared glances. "You're doing a good job, girls, don't mind me sitting close." He took a seat at the chair, slowly and carefully to not hurt himself anymore. He observed his son.

You placed a hand on his shoulder. "Are you sure you are okay, Ivar? I can tell something is wrong." You sent thralls away by waving hand at them, and sat down close to him with the boy on your laps so you can continue to feed him.

"I am sure," he assured and touched his son's cheek. "Be a good boy, listen to your mom. You need to eat to become a strong warrior."

Boy nodded, looking at Ivar.

"And you were worried you'll be a bad father. He already loves you," you whispered into Ivar's ear.

He smiled and blushed a little at a comment.

When Vali was done with his meal, he reached hand towards Ivar so you passed the boy to his father.

Ivar placed the boy on his lap. "Missed me, little warrior?," Ivar asked softly, tapping the boy's cheek.

"Yes! Much much!,” Vali nodded eagerly, nuzzling to Ivar.

"He never was that clingy to any other people, he always prefered me. Even when it comes to Hvitserk," you explained happily that Vali accepted Ivar so easily.

"Don't be surprised. He senses who is his dad after all, I bet. And, come on, we have so much in common, don't we, little one? Both brave. Both love you," Ivar pointed at Earl. "And both handsome. It attracts us to one another."

You couldn't help but laugh, and agree with Ivar. Your son had a father and Ivar was back at your side.

After spending more time with his father, Vali became sleepy so you took him to your room. When you returned, Ivar was sitting in front of a fireplace, looking into flames.

You walked to him and gently kissed his temple before sitting down right next to him. "We are alone for tonight. I am sure he will sleep the whole night. How do you feel, Ivar?”

"I hope he'll sleep calmly," Ivar replied softly and gave you a look. "Thank you for the kiss though..."

You laughed softly. "Ivar, no need to thank me,"

"Of course I need to thank you."

Shaking your head you got comfortable in your seat. "Was I really that bad? So bad you had to send me away? After all promises and our plans?"

"No...," He replied. "I was deluded."

Nodding slowly, you looked at him. "So... You didn't mean the words you said back then. Everything we ever did together, wasn't just your way of making sure I stay and fight for you?"

"You know I love you, and loved you back then... I was deluded... I was told I'm a god which was a lie. I thought I am someone that doesn't need anyone to rule... I grieved."

"It was hard for me too, you have no idea how hard it was," You said and took his hand. "I missed you every day, even if I used to live without you."

"I hated myself for what I've done. I raided England because I hoped for death."

"Then I am really happy death didn't come for you," you squeezed his hand. "Because Gods brought you here, back to me, and to your son."

"I would never say I'll have a child. Such a beautiful son... With such a woman..."

"We never know the ways of Gods, love. Maybe this all had to happen."

Ivar thought for a bit. "Can I kiss you?"

You smiled and got up from your seat to place yourself on his laps, of course making sure to not put too much weight on his legs. Cupping his cheek, you kissed him deeply.

He instantly wrapped arms around your waist, pulling you close and kissing you deeply, humming in enjoyment.

You pulled away, breaking the kiss as you ran out of the air. Your forehead rested against his. "Will you be my husband? I don't want to lose you ever again."

He stopped breathing. He didn't even realize he had been holding breath in. "Did you just...?"

You simply nodded. "I want you to be my husband. To stay here with me and our son. I want us to rule together. I want our family to grow bigger."

Instead replying, he kissed you deeply.

♥ Dangerously Perfect Match ♥ || Part IV

♥Part I♥

♥Part II♥

♥Part III♥

Summary: Despite Earl Wolf's life is being flipped upside down, she still finds herself capable of bestowing one particular person with reconciliation and forgiveness

Warnings: Ivar 😈

Words: 7774

Authors: Cass & Rouge

As you wished, Ivar became your husband soon.

Since that wonderful day, you two ruled together, hand in hand.

In the first moment, your people were against it, reminding you and your husband what all of them had lost because of this hellhound, as they used to call him.

The more years passed, the more they calmed down.

People saw Ivar's change, from a blood-thirsty warrior into a good leader, worth the respect but ready to spill blood when it meant the safety of his family and people.

You were proud of that change.

He went through a hard way by your side but all those 4 years were worth it.

Vali grew up with his father and completely didn't mind the fact Ivar was different. After all, no other child had a father that owned a chariot.

It was yet another day in the settlement.

You and your family were gathered on the training grounds. Someone had to train all the new fighters.

"Come on!," Hvitserk yelled to your warrior, encouraging the young men to attack him for the sake of training.

"Raise your shield!," You growled at the young shield maiden as she tried to somehow beat you.

Ivar sat on the side observing the whole training from his chariot with now 6 years old Vali on his laps.

"Father? Will you teach me to fight one day?"

Ivar ruffled the hair of his son playfully. "Of course I will. You'll be the best warrior among our people. Once you're grown enough, I'll teach you how to ride a chariot as well. Remember what I told you?"

Ivar's glance moves slightly around young warriors on the training ground.

They all were vigorous but lacked technique. Thankfully, Hvitserk offered his help in training them. As much as Ivar hated that fact, his older brother was an excellent warlord.

The boy giggled and nodded. "The great warrior wields a sword and his eyes as keen as an eagle," Vali said the words his father always repeated.

You laughed loudly, making one of the girls lose her balance and fall. Your sword was pointed at her throat. "You always need to stand strong. Never let something like this happen."

"Go easy on them. We don't want our young warriors to get scared," Hvitserk laughed.

You smiled at him. "My warriors are famous for being strong as a pack of wolves. This must continue, dear friend."

Ivar felt proud.

A healthy sense of pride can only be born of true love, you used to remind him. He understood those words after some time, when 4 springs had passed and his boy grew so quickly, asking many questions daily.

Ivar saw himself in Vali.

Once he was also a scared boy that turned into a lion that everyone else feared and hated.

"Just look at your mother. Do you see how smoothly she wields her sword? Only one human in this world wields a sword better than me and this is your mother."

"Mother is like a wild she-wolf! Protecting the whole pack, her lair, her mate, and the pup!," Vali said happily, pointing proudly at himself.

"Go on, join her. She'll be delighted to have you around," Ivar gently placed the boy on the ground.

The boy nodded and went to you.

You roared, using your shield to push away the man twice your size. "Look at this! Little pup decided to join me," laughing, you picked the boy up and kissed his cheek.

"I think it's enough for today. We don't want the young ones to die from overtraining," Hvitserk said as he walked to you to ruffle Vali's hair which made the boy laugh.

"There is no such a thing as overtraining, friend, but you are right," you nodded and pointed at the new warriors. "You are free! Go rest, tomorrow won't be any easier."

Few shield maidens started gossiping, glaring at Hvitserk from time to time, and giggling.

Ivar made his horse move and soon joined his wife and son. "Another successful training, wasn't it?" He asked and frowned, spotting the group of girls.

"Of course it was, as always. I want to remind you that my warriors helped you win a war, twice," you nodded and looked at him, hugging Vali close.

"They still need a lot of training but they will get there," Hvitserk added and looked at the group of girls then sent them a wink.

Girls giggled louder, few of them turned heads, pretending they weren't looking at him.

"I am aware, my queen," Ivar nodded at his wife. "But they would be nothing without you."

"They would be nothing without the Earl's dear husband. The best strategist among us all," you said, gently touching his arm.

Hvitserk shook his head, looking at the girls. "I feel forgotten. I am here, working my ass off,"

You laughed and nodded, patting his back. "Oh, of course. We can't forget about Hvitserk. The man that captured the hearts of almost all the women in the settlement."

Ivar sent you a lovely smile, he loved those little moments when during the busy day you offered him the slightest touch or when you two shared a kiss, secretly hiding from glances of prying eyes.

He quickly cringed, hearing what you said about his brother. "Did I miss something?"

"Well, it's enough to look at the young shield maidens," you explained. "But let's be honest, it has been like this since the day I brought him here. They all want a bit of a famous Raganrson."

"Uncle, don't steal all the girls! Father said I will need a wife when I will be as big as him!," Vali said, playing with your braid.

You laughed and kissed the boy's head. "So, boys? I think we should get back to the Great Hall. We all are tired and hungry."

Ivar laughed loudly at Vali's comment. His son was catching every, even the slightest hint.

Asta; your best shield maiden found the courage in herself to walk closer to you and Hvitserk.

She bowed her head to her Earl and smiled a little. "I was wondering if I could use Hvitserk some more...," She asked, looking at you.

Hvitserk observed her and smiled before looking at you.

You stroked Vali's hair and looked at the girl. "For some more training? Of course, as long as he is careful with you. I don't want any surprises stopping you from the fight. Okay, Asta?," You asked, gently stroking her hair.

This girl was like a younger sister to you. You took care of her training since you sat on the throne after your father. For Asta, you were a real role model.

"Of course, my lady. We will be careful with our prince," the girl smiled at him hesitantly and offered him her hand. "Shall we?"

Ivar observed the situation with eyebrows raised high.

"Yes," Hvitserk nodded, taking her hand to kiss it gently before they quickly walked away.

You sighed, joining Ivar in his chariot. "Well, we don't need to wait for him with dinner. She will for sure take care of him," after those words you placed a kiss on Ivar's cheek. "What about us? Shall we get back to the Great Hall?"

"We won't be waiting for my lovely brother. I think we should start charging him for the room. He treats our house like a tavern," he said, chuckling. "Let's get back home. It's getting late and I promised Vali that we are going to see the setting sun."

"Yes! And my father can break a bone but he never breaks his promise,” Vali said loudly.

"You are right, Vali," You agreed and hugged him tightly as the chariot started to move.

Ivar had to close his eyes for a brief second to prevent a single tear to stroll down his cheek. He felt very sentimental in such moments. "Don't you forget what you promised me?" He reminded the boy.

Your hand was placed on Ivar's shoulder, soon it moved to his nape so you could gently caress his skin and hair.

Vali frowned a little and nuzzled you. "I know. We will go see the sunset if I eat my meal."

"That's my boy," Ivar praised the boy and offered you a glance. "You know what to do to ease any inconvenience, huh?"

"No. I just missed the closeness of my dear husband," you said with a smile.

He wrapped his arm around you, as much as he could. "I promise to offer you more after our pup gets to his den."

You smiled and kissed his head then kissed Vali's head.

Your family was everything you ever needed.

Wonderful husband, sweet son, helpful brother-in-law. Everything you ever wished for.

When the chariot stopped you jumped off and waited at Ivar.

When he was off as well, the three of you entered the Great Hall.

"Mmmmm, I can smell something tasty," Ivar claimed loudly before he followed you into the Great Hall. "Your thralls did a good job again."

You sat Vali at his usual seat and sighed heavily, sitting down as well. "Our thralls and I am sure it is tasty. I dream about a good meal and a warm bath, after training it's a Gods' blessing."

Ivar smiled mischievously to himself. He wouldn't be lucky enough to help you wash the dirt and sweat off as he made a promise to his son.

When they were in the middle of the meal, a warrior came in. "My earl, we were informed that tomorrow the visitation from Kattegat will reach our settlement."

You frowned, looking at Ivar and then at the warrior. This information worried you, taking the past; the visit from Kattegat wasn't a good sign.

"Kattegat? It's grandfather's settlement,” Vali gasped.

You nodded, patting his head. "Do we know why and who is coming here?"

"Yes, my lady. Bjørn Ironside leads the troops."

Ivar rolled his eyes, sighing. "That's the cherry on the pie we needed."

"Indeed. Thank you for the information. You can go,"

When the warrior was gone you let out a deep sigh and rubbed your forehead, deeply worried about what would come.

Vali could feel that something was wrong so he pulled at Ivar's shirt and pointed at his empty plate as soon as he got his father's attention. "I ate! My plate is empty. I fulfilled my part of the agreement,' he said proudly.

Ivar, as he was pulled out of deep thoughtfulness, nodded at his son. "Get your fur," he ordered softly, and when the boy ran to another room, Ivar looked at you. "Can you imagine how huge will be his surprise once he sees me alive?"

You let out a short laugh before grabbing the cup to take a big sip of your wine. "He will also be surprised to see me. The woman that fought by your side against him and his mother," shaking your head slightly you rubbed your forehead. "I just wonder what he wants here. It's not like we can offer anything to Kattegat. We do not have any exotic goods nor gold or gems."

"No idea either but I can already say I hate the fact he is going to be present here. Probably that bloody bitch sent him to check up on our fortifications."

"You think it's a good idea to show him you are alive? This could be a shock... And I am sure he won't come here alone," you sighed, looking at your husband. "I don't want war here."

"I am not going to let my half-brother wander around my settlement," he growled slowly. "I won't let him be around you either. I don't care, if he is about to start a war, great then. My sword is bloodthirsty already."

"Ivar. Maybe once he notices there is nothing worth fighting here, he will quickly leave," you said with a frown.

"Mother! Father! Look, I am a bear!," Vali said loudly as he walked into the room with a big brown fur thrown over him. He raised his hand high and growled loudly.

"Mother! Fear the mighty bear! Save yourself!,” Ivar pretended to be terrified, he covered his eyes with curled palms.

You weren't in the mood for playing games but you knew your worries couldn't affect your son. "Oh, no! The mighty bear will eat us all!"

Vali ran up to you and laughed. "Don't be scared! It's only me! Your son!”

Watching the sun setting on the horizon took almost two hours.

Ivar returned with Vali when the coldness of the night stirred around the settlement. He had a very important talk with his son, he told him many things he had been keeping from everyone. Ivar knew he could trust his son fully, and even if Vali was still just a child, he was mature for his age.

The hot bath was everything Ivar dreamt of.

Vali was sent to bed and one of your thralls took care of him, while the boy's parents had some time for themselves.

The hot bath was a blessing. Your sore muscles relaxed and you rested comfortably against Ivar's chest.

Such moments were your favorite, just the two of you. "This is what I needed. A hot bath with my beloved husband," you hummed as his hand traveled your body.

He loved those rare moments equally much. He let his hands roam your body, stroking the curves of your hips and waist. Ivar placed a kiss on your temple. He inhaled the scent of your hot skin and hair and growled loudly.

You purred at his every touch and looked over your shoulder slightly. "Is my husband getting excited just by me being naked and so close to you?," Teasing was something you loved to do, Ivar's reactions were always different and it made stuff interesting.

He closed his eyes and kissed the back of your head, nuzzling to the crook of your neck. "Maybe," he replied in his soft, high voice. "It's hard to not get excited when such a goddess is in my arms."

You laughed softly. "You flatter me, love but I am no goddess. I am just a woman who was lucky enough to meet you," your head turned to him so you could kiss his temple. "I love you Ivar. I am thankful to the Gods that they sent me to York. You made me the happiest woman alive.'

His hands rested on your hips as he hummed into your ear. "I can't take my eyes off you, so you're either a goddess or a witch who cast a spell on me." His lips brushed the soft skin on your neck. "I would love you to leave tomorrow. I don't want you to be around Bjørn."

You let out a sigh and moved your hand into his long hair, shaking your head. "Ivar. You know I cannot do that. I am an Earl, this is my settlement. I am sure he is aware of the woman ruling here. If I would want anyone to stay hidden it's you, Vali, and Hvitserk," scratching his scalp you bite your lips. "I want you all and my people to live through this visit as peacefully as possible."

"I would rather slit his throat open and bathe in his blood," he said openly and groaned. "Let it be. You'll stay but be extremely cautious in relations with him. Can you do that for me?"

You turned in his arm to settle yourself on his lap, wrapping your arms around his neck. "Love, it's not my first time dealing with a difficult man," smiling, you cupped his cheek. "Somehow I managed the relations with one wild Ragnarson."

"I don't know what you are talking about, love," he grasped your hips tightly and instantly attacked your neck.

You moaned and giggled, rolling your hips. "Oh, you know who I am talking about."

He wrapped his fingers around your neck and pulled you into the kiss. "Maybe I do. You spin my head around, beautiful."

"You know. I’ve been thinking... Vali is a big boy now, soon he will have enough of his mother's love. How about we start trying for another pup?," You teased, pressing your hips to his.

Ivar smiled proudly and kissed you again, his tongue slipped past yours easily. He broke the kiss once he ran out of air in his lungs. "You can be sure I'll do my best to breed you."

"Yes... Please. Breed me, my love," you whimpered in his arms.

Thanks to Ivar, the morning came quickly.

Since morning you were getting ready for the interesting visit.

You sat in your chair, dressed in a beautiful black and red, long dress, humming loudly while braiding your long hair. "Ivar? Love? Do you think I should put on a mask?"

"No," he replied, still lying in bed, nuzzling to the pillow you slept on. "You're so beautiful, don't hide it. Your scars are not as visible since you visit that healer at North."

You huffed, touching your scared part of the face. "But they are still there, we both know this, love," looking over your shoulder you smiled at the sight of your husband, hugging your pillow and taking in your scent.

"You like it?"

"Mmmm?," He mumbled, opening his eyes slowly. "Oh, yes. It smells like you. I hate the fact you left the bed to get ready for that piece of shit that used to be called my brother," Ivar rolled to his back. "I don't see your scars anymore. You're just very pretty, your beauty takes my breath away."

When you finished your makeup you chuckled and got up to walk closer to the bed. "I need to look like a real Earl, love. Even if it wasn't Bjørn, I still would need to get ready. Just remember I love my husband and only him."

"I hope so," he growled, slipping hands under his head. "Don't you think your neckline is too exposed in that dress? I can peek easily into your breasts."

"Your eyes travel to the wrong places, dear husband," you placed a quick kiss on his lips. "Wolf's fur will cover it, don't worry."

"I'm going to get up and take Vali with me. We will go to the nearby settlement and stay there until you send our people to let us know he's gone."

You frowned.

"You sure you don't want to stay here and keep an eye on me and your brother?"

"I want but as we spoke, our son needs to be protected at all costs," he reminded and propped his upper body on elbows.

”You are right, my dear. Get ready then, I will go too," You kissed him deeply, cupping his cheek.

"I hope you two will have a calm trip."

Taking a deep breath you walked to the main room.

One of the thralls brought you the heavy wolf's fur and wrapped it around your shoulders. You took a seat on your throne and then pulled on the hood made out of the wolf's head. "Let's see what Ironside wants from me," you muttered to yourself, mentally getting ready.

It took an hour for Ivar to get ready. This day wasn't good since the moment he put his legs on the floor; the pain was so intense a tear or two rolled down his cheeks.

He put a poker face on yet and helped his son to get ready for the trip.

He was lucky enough; when they were leaving the settlement, he spotted an army entering from the west. "Ironside...," Ivar grunted under his breath. "Hold on, son."

Ivar hit the rains, making his horse galloped.

The door to the Great hall opened and a tall, well-built man dressed in a black, fitted shirt and black pants stepped inside. His hair was braided in a thick braid, the glance of his cold enough it could freeze everything around. "I came to see Earl Wolf."

You smiled, looking at him.

There were a lot of things you heard about him but never really had a chance to meet Ragnar’s oldest son.

You had to admit, he was looking like a bear and was handsome.

"Well! You are looking at her. Welcome Bjørn Ironside, son of Ragnar," you said loudly, getting up from the throne to greet him. "What did I do to deserve a visit from someone like you?"

"Earl Wolf," he spoke loudly and as soon as he stopped in front of you, he bowed his head a little and leaned forward to take your hand and place a kiss on your palm. "I came to bargain."

You smiled at this.

This wasn't the type of greeting you expected from him but you liked it. "Bargain? I am sorry to disappoint you but we don't have anything exotic that we can sell. I am afraid your travel was a waste of time."

"When such a beautiful lady welcomes me in, it was not a waste of time. I need some of your warriors. I remember you fighting against me and my mother in the battle of Kattegat."

You chuckled at his comment, oh, he was that type of man.

"Oh, do you know? I wonder who threatens you that you need help from a woman who beat you with your brother."

"King Harald decided to invade my settlement," Bjørn said openly. "Unfortunately, some of our men are with Ubbe, in England, so it's hard to push enemies away. That's when I thought you might be useful," eldest Ragnarsson dared to wrap his arm around the curve of your waist.

"Your brother betrayed me as soon as became useless to him. He promised me a lot of things and then forced me to leave," You said slowly, moving your hand up and down his chest.

"How do I know you won't do the same, Bjørn Ironside?" His name rolled off your lips as you looked up at him.

He leaned forward and down, soon his cheek almost brushed yours as he whispered directly into your ear. "I'm afraid you need to trust me, mighty Earl."

"I'm afraid I don't help people who I cannot trust. Trust is the most important to me," You whispered back and moved your hand to grab the thick braid of his.

"One Ragnarsson already made a fool out of me. In front of my people, this won't happen again."

"Of course it won't, for I am not Ivar the Boneless," he almost growled, his tone deep, vibrating through your body.

Bjørn looked down on you. "I heard you are known for your hospitality. I hope there will be a place for my warriors to spend the night."

You stiffened at the thought of him staying here longer than a few hours or a day maybe. What with your husband and your son?! Hvitserk wasn't a problem since girls would take care of him.

You nodded, looking at him. "Of course. You and your warriors will be well feed and get a dry place to sleep"

"Thank you, Earl Wolf. We also brought you some gifts."

Bjørn gestured for his men to bring the heavy chests in. "Gold and materials, for I have heard you lack those."

You nodded and walked closer to the chest to look inside. Somehow you still didn't trust him much. To your surprise, the chest was indeed full. "That's a kind gift. I didn't expect such kindness. Thank you."

Bjørn offered you a polite nod. "We should consider renewing our trading paths," he claimed

"We will think about that. I ended it when your brother was a king and I can say we suffered much," you said.

You decide to prepare a feast for Bjørn and his warriors. Just a small feat for them to eat and give your warriors some rest.

When no one was paying much attention to your person, you decided to send a messenger to Ivar to inform him about the situation.

Once it was done, you returned to the feast.

Of course, Bjørn spotted the moment you left the building and was waiting for your return right next to the door.

When you passed his hiding spot, he let out a dark chuckle. "Well, well, Earl herself sneaked out of the feast. What was the cause of such a rush?"

"Important things. Things that should not concern you since you are not part of this settlement, only a guest," You said, looking at him. "Shouldn't you be eating with your people? I threw a feast for nothing?"

"I was just worried the queen of the evening wandered somewhere alone, in the night," he walked closer and looked down at you.

You raised an eyebrow, looking up at him. He was so fucking big. "Worried? And why is that? I know I am just a woman but I can take care of myself."

"I bet you do," he put a hand on your shoulder, giving you a firm squeeze. "I hope you are not trying to fuck me up behind my back."

"I am not Ivar the Boneless. No need to worry about that," you said, patting his hand.

"You are safe here. I can swear on my life and honor."

"Maybe I'm a fool but I believe you," he whispered right into your ear as he leaned down. "It's strange though that such a great woman is still without a husband."

You chuckled, thinking about Ivar. Oh, you missed him so much, all you wished was for him to be here.

Humming you cupped his cheek and pulled him closer, resting his forehead against yours. "It's a shame that such a man cannot find this one perfect wife and keeps changing women but dares to point out my lack of a husband."

He laughed loudly. "Fair point. I think I am not lucky in love and that's the cause," he whispered, his hot breath hitting your cheek. He used his thumb to brush your lips.

"And you think you will get lucky here?" You asked with a soft smile. "Sadly, misfortune doesn't create good couples, Ironside."

"Who said I'm looking for anything, dear Earl," be put his arm around your waist.

"Your behavior speaks louder than the words. I can see that, I met a lot of men on my way," You shrugged, patting his chest.

He smiled and used his other hand to grab your chin and force you to raise your head. He looked into your face. "What can I say? You're a beautiful woman. All men are losing their heads for the Earl."

You laughed and smiled at him innocently. "Men are losing their heads for the power, not the person. Marrying me would be an easy gate to the throne. They don't see a beautiful woman, they see a way to be someone important."

He smiled at you and simply stole a kiss from your lips.

You growled and didn't kiss him back, pushing him away. "Good to know you are no different than all other men," you muttered wiping your lips.

Thanks to Gods, Ivar wasn't here because if he saw this, the whole feast would turn into a bloodbath.

But Ivar knew well what happened.

His eyes widened once Hvitserk told him what he saw while checking the situation in the settlement.

Oh, Ivar felt huge rage and jealousy, he couldn't stop himself from smashing his hand a few times against a wooden wall. "Knew this will end like this!"

Vali walked slowly into the room. The poor boy was sleepy but Ivar's loud behavior woke him up.

"What's wrong... Why is daddy so loud?," He muttered, rubbing his eyes but still smiled seeing Hvitserk. "Uncle?"

Older Ragnarsson picked Vali up. "Hey there, little one. Nothing is wrong, your father just got a little angry. He didn't mean to wake you up," He said, hugging the boy.

"I'm sorry," Ivar mumbled and turned to face his son. "I didn't mean to wake you up, son."

The boy yawned and nodded, nuzzling to his uncle

Hvitserk sighed, patting the boy's back. "As I was saying. That's what I saw but knowing her, it was a one-site thing. She pushed him away and didn't look pleased with all," he explained, trying his best to not mention your name when Vali was in his arms.

Ivar didn't reply, instead, he rubbed his temple with a shaking hand. "I gotta go there. I can't be here, and she can't be there. Alone. She's just a helpless woman after all."

Older brother raised an eyebrow. "She? Helpless? If she would hear that, you would get punched. Hard," he chuckled and shook his head. "You can't go there. He thinks I am just gone and you are dead. She can take care of herself."

"I don't want her to be taking care of this on her own, understood? This is our place. And he's nothing but a son of the bloody, sorry for the phrase, bitch that killed our mother."

"Mother says that it’s a bad word," Vali said quietly.

"And she is right," Hvitserk nodded, hugging the boy.

"So? What are we doing? The leader here is her loyal friend, shall we leave Vali with his family and go back?”

Ivar rubbed his chin. "No. You'll stay with the boy, and I'll go visit them."

"I don't think it's a good idea. I want to go there too. She needs my help as well."

"Vali. You're too young, but I believe we can have great use in you tonight," Ivar said softly. "Do you want to join me and your uncle?"

Hvitserk raised an eyebrow and looked at the half-asleep boy in his arms.

Vali nodded.

"I'll let you hold the reins. We are going to meet your mom. Shall we?"

Vali gasped and suddenly was fully awake, all excited and happy. "I want to hold the reins! I will be like you! I want to see mommy! I miss her."

Older brother shook his head. "Let's go then. Lead the way, brother."

"Son, put your furs on, and meet me and uncle outside," Ivar instructed simply as he walked slowly outside the building.

Hvitserk set the boy down and ruffled his hair. "Go, I will wait for you here."

Vali nodded and quickly ran off to find his fur. Once he was dressed he followed Hvitserk to join Ivar.

Ivar was leaning against the chariot, supporting his weight on one straightened arm, grasping tightly the edge of the chariot.

He felt incredibly bad, another wave of burning pain washed his anger off, leaving him vulnerable.

Once he spotted his son with the corner of his eye, he raised his head and smiled the pain off. "Get in, little warrior."

Vali jumped in and looked at his father. "Are you okay, father? Are you in pain again? Mom will be worried," he said.

"I'm fine," Ivar assured and kissed the top of the boy's head.

He never knew he could lie so easily, without the slightest blink of an eye.

You always loved feasts, no matter if they were big or small. It was a great way to relax and forget about the worries of the day but this time it was different.

You lacked Ivar and Vali's presence. Your mind was occupied by the thoughts about them. Were they okay, was everything okay with their health?

Letting out a deep sigh, you took a sip out of your horn, trying to calm down.

Bjørn lurking around didn't help you much.

Bjørn couldn't take his eyes off you. Such a powerful woman, ruling all alone, surrounded by many men. There was something beneath the surface, he could feel you weren't fully honest with him.

Suddenly, the door to the Great Hall opened, and two figures stepped in. It was Ivar, Vali and Hvitrserk.

You stood up as soon as you saw them. Suddenly the facade of a strong, alone Earl fell and it was replaced by a loving mother and wife. "Ivar! Vali!" You almost ran to them.

Cupping Ivar's cheek, you looked at him and your son. "Are you two okay? Is Vali sick? Are you in pain, love?" You asked and looked at Hvitserk. "Are you okay?"

Ivar's arm wrapped tightly around your waist, he pulled you close to his body and kissed you deeply, slipping his tongue past your lips, easily dominating the kiss.

Bjørn, looking very surprised, got off his spot and walked closer. "Well, well, and we all thought you were long dead, Ivar."

"I bet many of your people cheered once they heard the news about my death," Ivar smiled wryly, yet his eyes remained old as stones. "What are you doing in my little kingdom?"

"Your kingdom? Ha, that's funny," Bjørn shook his head and looked at you, offering a cold glance of his, still checking your body. "I thought Earl Wolf was the leader."

"She is not only the leader but first and foremost my wife and mother of my son," Ivar snapped through clenched teeth. "So better keep your dirty hands off her, understood?"

You licked your lips after the kiss and nodded your head. "That's true. I am indeed an Earl."

After saying this you picked Vali up and hugged him tightly, happy to see him. "I wasn't fully honest with you, Bjørn Ironside but now I am. This is my dear husband and our son. I don't need to introduce you to Hvitserk."

Bjørn's hands clenched into the fists. How such a beautiful woman could end up with his crippled half-brother and Hvitserk, who was presumed dead as well. "Fine then. What a beautiful family you have," eldest Ragnarsson let out a growl as he leaned down to grab Ivar by his shoulder. "You should be burnt alive for what you've done to my people."

"Your people, Ironside?," Ivar laughed.

"Mine and my mothers’," he reminded him. "And you," Bjørn pointed at Hvitserk, "Traitor. Ubbe was right when he claimed you can't be trusted."

"ONE MORE WORD, IRONSIDE!," You growled and gave him a cold glance, pushing his hand off of your husband's shoulder. "I want to remind you where you are. You are in my lair, if you dare to touch anyone from my family I will cut your hands off myself," You informed him resting your free hand on the sword that was hanging on your side.

Bjørn smiled and looked directly at you. "So that was the reason you were so cold. Because you offered your life to serve a fucking cripple who fucked you years ago. Ridiculous and pathetic," Ironside grunted.

He looked back at Ivar, the eldest brother pulled him closer easily, looking him deeply in the eyes. "Remember my words, cripple. There will be a day when my sword will pierce your useless body, stirring your guts, bathing in the blood of yours. The day will come when you'll be begging for my mercy."

Bjørn offered his half-brother a wry smirk and simply spat him in the face.

All the chatters went quiet around the room.

"Father…," Vali whimpered and quickly hid his face in the fur you were wearing.

This made you angry. "That's enough. Warriors!"

At that moment your men surrounded you and Bjørn.

"If you want to leave this place alive and still have men to fight against Harald, I suggest you leave." You pulled out your sword and smiled at him. "I may be known for my hospitality but I won't stop myself from killing you when you try to lay your hands on my family."

For the first time in his entire lifetime, Ivar didn't react. It wasn't yet caused by the fact his son would witness his cruelty.

Ivar faced the pain strong like never before. The burning feeling spread across his body, from legs, along the spine, right to the brain. It made him stiffened, unable to move. All he could do was raise his chin to look at Bjørn. "Get out," he demanded quietly.

Bjørn scoffed. "Ivar the Boneless, who doesn't want to end up in a fight? What's wrong with you, brother? Did your lovely wife cut the things you call balls off completely, huh?!"

"That's enough, Bjørn. Leave if you know what is good for you," Hvitserk said, calling the warriors over.

They easily pulled Bjørn away from your husband while others gathered his warriors.

"Throw them out, I don't want him or his filthy soldiers here. Never again. There will be no trade path nor any other help," You said simply pointing the sword at him.

"You'll regret your decision, Earl Wolf, sooner or later," Bjørn warned before vanishing from sight of yours.

You didn't care about his threats, after all, you weren't getting ready for the war. All you cared about was your family.

Hvitserk left the three of you to make sure Bjørn left for good.

When the Great Hall was free from any kind of intruders, you quickly walked to Ivar. "Love, are you okay?"

Vali also looked at him, the boy was just as worried as you were.

Ivar turned his head slightly, he didn't look at you, his eyes fixed on the floor right at his feet. "Yes," he replied. "Take our son to bed, he will be tired after that day."

"No! I don't want to go to bed. I want to stay with you and mom," Vali protested loudly, shaking his head.

Ivar sighed. "Fine then."

Slowly, step by step, he headed to the room he shared with you and your son.

With one gesture he sent all the thralls away.

Of course, you followed him.

You closed the door behind yourself and then set Vali on the floor.

The boy immediately ran up to his father.

"Ivar. What's wrong, love?" You asked, walking closer.

"I said it's fine," he snapped a little too viciously but he was simply tired of everyone asking him whether he was doing well.

Vali jumped a little at his father's harsh tone and moved back to you to hide under the heavy black fur.

You sighed and nodded, stroking the boy's hair. "Very well then. Come on Vali, mom will put you to sleep."

Ivar sat alone for a long moment, considering his current situation.

In the end, quietly, without letting anyone know, he got up and slowly left the chamber and then the great hall.

He headed to the hill he used to sit on with his son, telling him stories of his family.

Putting Vali to sleep was as hard as when he was just a baby.

Boy was confused, scared, and worried but thanks to Gods you somehow calmed him down and he was fast asleep.

You were even more confused when you realized Ivar was gone. Ivar was fully capable of taking care of himself but he was your husband, it was normal that you were worried.

You quickly changed into something more comfortable than that stupid dress.

After this, you went to check the place you knew Ivar loved to visit.

As you walked closer, you could see his dark figure.

Wrapped in thick bear fur, Ivar was sitting on the large rock, looking at the endless horizon. He was sobbing quietly.

There was a lot you wanted to say but instead of that, you decided to stay quiet. You walked closer and sat right next to him.

He quickly wiped his cheeks with the top of his palms. "I didn't hear you coming," he stated quietly.

"What can I say? I am good at sneaking," you smiled softly and took his hand in yours. "You know, love, it's good to cry sometimes. It clears your mind and helps calm ragged nerves."

"I'm a warrior. I shouldn't be crying," he told you softly but nuzzled to your palm.

"Ivar. I am a warrior too and I cry too. I cried a lot in the past and look at me," you shrugged. "Nothing bad happened to me."

"Pain knocks on the door and walks right in, the visitor that leaves in their own time. All we can do is learn from it, grow in our empathy for others in pain, and do what we can to recover and regain good health, which is not so easy," he stated carefully. "I feel weak, for days now. I can barely walk, each step is like thousands of needles were pinned into my spine and legs, it makes it impossible to breathe."

"Ivar...," You whispered, squeezing his hand. "Why didn't you tell me? I am your wife, the person that can lean on and will never be judged. No matter what, I would burn the whole of Norway and England just to help you ease your pain."

"The truth is no one can help me, you know this," he replied easily.

"Don't say that, Ivar. Remember the healer that helped with my scares? You said you felt much better after things he made for you," you remained him. "You can be sure that I would go to him again, just to help you."

"I am useless," he simply rolled to his side and laid his head on your lap, seeking comfort of any kind. "All I do is stir shit around us. I wish I was a good person but I am not and will never be."

"You aren't useless, Ivar. You do a lot around here. You support me and help me carry the burden of being an Earl, without you I would break like a thin twig," You whispered as your hand started to gently stroke his hair. "You teach our son what being loved means, you show him how important the family is. You teach him to be a real man. I know you made many mistakes in the past but you learned from them a lot."

Your lap was so comfortable that he closed his eyes, humming almost. "You ease everything that bothers me, dear wife. You forgave me a lot, and I can't describe how grateful I am."

"Maybe my life was different from yours in some parts but it teaches me that it's not always fair," You bent down a little to kiss his head. "I am happy to have you back in my life as my dear husband. No matter your flaws and mistakes because no one is free from those."

"Don't you sometimes think about how it would be to have a normal husband? Not a cripple, not a murderous and egocentric man like me?"

You chuckled. "I would if my husband wasn't normal but for me he is. Ivar the Boneless, my husband is the most wonderful man that ever lived. Loving husband and father, he is also the greatest warrior I ever knew."

Oh, you tickled his ego just fine. He slowly rolled on his back, raised his chin to look you in the eyes. "You're my morning star and salvation," he reached his hand out and touched your cheek, slowly caressing smooth skin.

"You are my life and my whole world. There would be no me without you, my love," you hummed and turned your head to place a kiss on his hand.

He smiled. "Love? Do you remember the one particular talk we shared some time ago? About growing our little family?

You nodded. "How could I forget, love? You told me that you wish for a big family."

"I want and on the other hand, I don't," he replied smoothly, tugging the furs tighter around his form. "I wouldn't take your suffering during labor. I don't want to... I can't lose you."

"How about we try for one more? Just so our boy can have a sibling," You smiled at him. "I am a strong woman, my body can take it. You won't lose me."

"I'm just scared, for I can't risk your life or well-being, I did it once already," Ivar caressed your cheek.

"Don't be scared, love. This time it will be different. We will be together, from the beginning till the end," you whispered, touching his hand.

He nodded and sat up slowly. "Shall we go back to our nest?," He asked. "To our boy?"

"We shall, after today I am sure he will visit our bed at some point in the night," you got up and offered him your arm. "Let me help you, my dear husband."

It took him longer to get up and stand properly on his shaking feet.

A slow walk to the settlement was filled with talks about your future and plans.

Even if the walk took longer than usual you didn't mind it at all. After this chaotic day, you

needed some time with him.

Back in your room, you helped him bathe and change. The whole time was filled with talks and sweet words.

The bed was comfortable as never before.

"Ivar? I am happy to have you," you whispered, nuzzling to your pillow.

"So am I to have you by my side," he replied softly, offering you his shoulder to lean on. "I won't lie, I was so jealous of Bjørn kissing you."

You nuzzled to his shoulder. "Just so you know. I did not kiss him back, it was one side thing,"

"I heard," he claimed and kissed the top of your head.

"I hope you believe what you heard," you sighed.

Suddenly the door to your shared bedroom started to open slowly. "Mommy... Daddy..."

Ivar rested his upper body on elbows. "Vali? What is it, son?"

"Can't sleep. I am scared the big man will return," the boy said, rubbing his eyes. "I know I am big... But can I sleep with you and mom?"

Ivar pretended to consider the boy's request for a longer time. "Let it be," he shifted the furs aside to make room for his son. "Jump in."

Vali smiled and quickly climbed into the bed to get comfortable between his parents.

You kissed his forehead, wrapping the fur tightly around him. "Comfortable?" You asked and he nodded.

Ivar smiled at his son and pecked his cheek. "Now, close your beautiful eyes and sleep. Your mother and father are here and will always protect you."

The boy yawned and nodded, nuzzling to the pillow. He smiled and closed his eyes.

Ivar looked at you and smiled, resting his head against the boy.

You got comfortable and reached over Vali to take Ivar's hand. "My two handsome boys. Lights of my life."

Ivar smirked at you and kissed the top of your palm.

Glædelig Valentinsdag || Modern!Ivar x Fem!reader

Summary: Ivar is the reader's boyfriend and they both are spending Valentine’s Day together.

Warnings: None, if not counting Ivar who doesn’t give a shit about flowers 🤷‍♂️

Words: 1,6k

Authors: Cass & Fenrir

Valentine's Day is so fricking dumb it almost melts my mind, thought Ivar to himself, crossing another alley in the florist store to pick some beautiful flowers for you. All those cards, chocolates, sweat-shop lingerie items, all made Ivar feel so done with the modern world. It's right up there with Halloween, let's screw paying respect to the dead, and sell insanely overhyped costumes!

As much as he hated all those silly holidays, he was still about making it amazing, just for you. He knew well that you were a fan of Valentine's Day, so he set up with you for the evening and already spent half an hour by the florist store.

A lady working at the place approached him and asked whether he needed help.

"Yeah, actually I do," Ivar replied. "I'm looking for flowers."

The lady blinked, tilted her head, and chuckled softly. "Well, sir, we have a lot of them," she made a little circle with her palm, showing the entire exposition to him. "What flowers do you have in mind?"

What flowers do I have in mind, ha, he thought to himself and grimaced a little, being already tired with her unnecessary question. "Ahm. Just flowers? Haven’t been thinking about the type though. Flowers with a nice scent that will look presentable, I guess? The price is no concern, I just need the biggest bouquet for my girlfriend."

* * * * * * * * * *

Cute tops, tight jeans, dresses, jewellery, and hills were scattered all over the bedroom floor. The once neat and clean room looked like a locker room during the fashion show.

You groaned loudly, looking into a big mirror on your wall. The dress you were wearing now was cute and pretty but not pretty enough for Valentine's Day.

Of course, you were aware that love ought to be celebrated every day, but this particular date was fully dedicated to demonstrating love.

Once you picked out the right dress, there came the even worst part of the preparation: make-up and your hair. Luckily, all the beautiful people from YouTube for once were helpful, and finally, you were ready.

* * * * * * * * * *

Ivar came to pick you up.

He had planned the entire evening just for the two of you, trying to find a place for as many romantic activities as he could ever think of, not counting sex. This year he decided to go for the emotional aspects and not only the physical ones.

He picked the number of your flat on the intercom and waited for you to pick it up.

You immediately picked the intercom up and let him in.

Before he got to your flat, you had to look into the mirror again to make sure everything was neat.

He knocked a few times, and once you opened the door, Ivar offered you one of the best smiles he could make. "Hi, Y/N. Here, these are for you," a young man handed you a huge bouquet of red roses.

You gasped and accepted the bouquet, immediately smelling the flowers. "Oh, thank you, Ivar. Please, come in for a moment, I will put them into water."

He rubbed his palms together and stepped into your flat.

Ivar wasn't a fan of the place you lived in; it was just a tiny apartment consisting of a small bathroom, little kitchen, one larger room that served as a living room, and a bedroom.

He looked around and smiled to himself, noticing a photograph of the two of you that hung on the wall in the living room.

He remembered the moment when the picture was taken very well. You and he went to the Tivoli the year before, and one of your friends snapped the lovely picture of you, with your arms wrapped around Ivar's neck, laughing as he was picking you up.

You put the flowers into a big vase and smelled them one last time.

After that, you walked to the mirror once again and improved your make-up and dress.

Then you grabbed your bag. "I am ready. What do you think?"

"Are you going to go out without your coat?," Ivar chuckled. "It's freezing outside."

You rolled your eyes and grabbed your coat putting it on. "Well, I wanted your opinion about my dress but thank you for reminding me about my coat."

"Your dress is beautiful, fits you perfectly."

"I know," you giggled and smiled at him. "Shall we?”

He offered you his arm, nodding. "Sure."

* * * * * * * * * *

The first thing he did was to take you on a walk, he picked Tivoli Gardens as the destination. "Can you believe it? Two years together."

"Honestly? I can't believe it, I was sure that this would be a short relationship," you sighed.

He stopped and looked down at you, his eyebrow raised. "What made you think that way?"

"Well, when we started dating you, I heard a lot about you from other girls. I was scared that it wouldn't last too long."

He rolled his eyes theatrically, grimacing. "And of course, you had to talk with other women about me."

"Hey! Shall I pretend I don't know you?” You asked and playfully poked his ribs. "It's not my fault everyone knows my boyfriend.'

He nodded, and you continued the walk along with one of many paths in Tivoli.

You smiled. "Ivar?"

He looked down at you.

You gave him a sweet smile. "I love you."

"I love you too."

Even though he didn't show it openly, his heart melted with your sweetness.

"Ok, Y/N. Since it's so cold tonight, let me take you for a coffee and a piece of cake."

Ivar took you to a cosy café where he ordered himself a piece of cheesecake and espresso and earl grey and apple pie for you.

You got comfortable on your chair and looked around with a smile.

You loved this place, it was your favourite, to be exact. "You know. I have a gift for you."

He stopped with his hand raised halfway to his lips, looking at you above his cup.

"It's Valentine's Day after all," you shrugged and reached into your bag. After a short moment, you pulled out a box and handed it to him. "Glædelig Valentinsdag, min skat."

He took a sip of his coffee and set the cup aside, accepting the box from you.

Inside there was a watch, not a cheap one for sure. After all, you worked your ass off a lot to get it. "I hope you will like it.'

His lips parted as he gasped. Ivar's glance moved back to you. "Y/N..."

"There is something on the back," you said happily.

He slowly turned the watch.

A short message was engraved on the back.

I love you & hope this watch will remind you about it

He smirked proudly. "Thank you, Y/N. I didn't expect such a gift. It's beautiful," he said, taking his watch off to try the new one. "Fits perfectly. I love the stripe."

He then reached into a pocket of his black coat, pulling a little box as well, offering it to you.

"Ivar... You didn't have to," you stuttered, taking the box to look inside.

You found a necklace and a pair of matching earrings made of rose gold, wolf-shaped.

"Oh my God, Ivar. Thank you! They are so beautiful!"

He smiled and looked out of the window.

Ivar smiled, seeing that it started snowing. Snow danced in the light of a nearby street lamp, conducted by the gentle wind.

"I think it's time to go. Maybe you would...," You shrugged with a soft smile, "Would you like to go to my place? We could watch a movie."

You didn't have to ask twice. "Sure thing," Ivar replied with a nod.

* * * * * * * * * *

Ivar paid for everything, and you two went to your apartment. You knew he didn't like it, but what could you do - it was your home after all.

Once the two of you got there, you prepared a couch and some snacks.

After picking a movie, you sat down on the couch, smiling at Ivar with a blanket in your hands. "I am ready for cuddling."

He let out a soft chuckle and opened his arms for you. Soon, he was watching the movie, with your head resting on his chest, stroking your shoulder.

"This is the best Valentine's Day in my whole life," you said quietly and looked up at him.

"They say that if you want to melt ice, you gotta be warm. And this is what you have done to me; you sparkled the forgotten emotions I held in myself," Ivar replied within a soft tone, playing with your hair. "I love you, and I enjoyed today spent with you. Even though I planned much more for us to perform, I'm content with the final result.”

When you smiled at him and wrapped your arms around his body, he snuggled in. In your embrace, the world stopped still on its axis, and that was what Ivar needed. "You're the only person I know that gives indefinite hugs." He let his body sag, and his muscles become loose. "Jeg elsker dig."