Lagertha

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Name: Lagertha Lothbrok

Age: Early 40s

Sex: Female 

Nationality: Norse

Sexuality: Bisexual/Polyamorous I find pleasure with both men and women, and I’m not afraid to take what I want….sometimes multiples at a time.

Marital Status: I was once married to Ragnar Lothbrok, but when he brought another woman into our home I left him. I then married the wealthy Earl Sigvard. His violence towards me knew no bounds, until one day I’d had enough, stabbing him in the eye. Men that seek to control me and take away my power, soon find out that I won’t hesitate to end them to keep what is mine.

Family - Son @bjornironsideviking

Religious Affiliation: Pagan

Weapons: Sword, axe, spear and bow. Skilled in all manner of weapons.

Affiliated with: @thelastkingdomrp The Last Kingdom RP group.

The Last Kingdom and Vikings crossover.

[lagertha-lothbrok]

After settling his Lord in the comfort of their chamber and attending to him, Finan strides to the courtyard, his mind drifting again to the King of Kattegat and the gratitude he holds for him having been so readily at his aid. People are bustling about even in the late hour, and the Irishman keeps his eyes peeled for the Northman.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

After wiping out the camp of the King of Wessex’s guardsmen, Ragnar and Lagertha prepare for the journey back to the fortress. Both of them covered in blood and the rush of battle burning in their eyes. Ragnar forces a chained Alfred onto a horse, taking the reins in his own hands to lead the prisoner back to the fortress where Uhtred and Finan can decide his fate.

It takes the large group of warriors several hours to make it back to the fortress, many of them nursing injuries and thus slowing their pace. The King has not spoken a word to them, probably knowing the dire straits he has put himself into incurring the wrath of the Irishman and Dane.

When their weary group finally arrives back to Bebbanburg, deep into the middle of the night, Ragnar can’t help the smirk that comes to his lips seeing the Irishman pacing in the courtyard.

“Miss me?” Ragnar teases as he halts his horse in front of the Irishman, his eyes glowing with a mischievous look.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Finan’s gaze bashfully falls at Ragnar’s words, trying to hide the immediate blush that rises to his cheeks. He shrugs, picking his head up a moment later to look into the Viking’s eyes.

“I, uh… wanted to make sure you all made it back,” Finan drawls, slowly striding to Ragnar’s horse. When the Northman dismounts, Finan’s eyes fall again.

“I wanted to tell ya how grateful I am for your assistance. How grateful we all are. We are in your debt, surely.” The Irishman drawls in his deep brogue. When his dark eyes meets Ragnar’s again, he offers him a little smirk at that still glowing gaze.

“Thank you. Again,” Finan says.

@lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar doesn’t miss the blush that colors the Irishman’s cheeks at his words. His smirk deepening at Finan’s reaction. He has to admit, they made a good pair, sneaking into the cottage and rescuing his Lord. It’s been awhile since the Northman has felt the rush of such a mission. Felt the rush of battle, even if it was short lived, the Saxons couldn’t hold a candle to their strength.

“We would have made it back sooner, but there were several injured warriors. We wanted to ensure everyone made it back.” Ragnar glances back at the others still stumbling into the courtyard. “We only suffered a few casualties…”

Giving a little shrug of his shoulders, Ragnar grins at Finan as if it was no big thing. “I told you I would offer you my sword if you ever had need of it during my stay here in Bebbanburg. Besides…I think we made a pretty good team.” The Northman winks.

“What do you want to do with him?” Ragnar nods towards Alfred still sitting on his horse.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Finan barely registers the Northman’s words, instead entranced by his eyes, but he’s quickly grounded. Shifting his gaze to the King of Wessex in the background, the Irishman shakes his head.

“Out of my sight until I decide what to do with him. My men will take him to his new quarters… don’t fret,” Finan drawls, motioning to his guardsmen to take the King from Ragnar’s horse. The Irishman watches until it’s done, and the King is out of his sight as he requested. It takes him some time to simmer down from even the sight of the man he despises with every beat of his heart.

“Help yerself to anything as a measure of my gratitude,” Finan smiles then, his dark eyes lingering on the Northman’s for just a moment too long.

“Goodnight, Ragnar.” Finan drawls, holding his gaze until he turns and strides in the other direction.

@lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar watches in feigned interest as the guardsmen lead Alfred away. He may have stopped a war, but for how long. Seeing the barely hidden rage in the Irishman’s eyes when faced with the man he despises most, Ragnar can’t help but think not very long at all.

“I’m sure he will be comfortable enough…” Ragnar snickers.

“Hmm….anything? That is a dangerous offer to make…” Ragnar teases as his eyes trail down Finan’s body before returning to his eyes. He is starting to see how so many fall under the spell of the Irishman.

“Goodnight, Finan. Just don’t be setting anymore fires tonight…” The Northman smirks as the Irishman walks away.

Heading back to his chambers, he’s curious if the servant girl is still warming his furs. He reaches down to readjust himself as dark eyes filter across his mind. Letting out a soft chuckle, Ragnar shakes his head. Perhaps he might enjoy spending time in Bebbanburg this winter.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[lagertha-lothbrok]

After settling his Lord in the comfort of their chamber and attending to him, Finan strides to the courtyard, his mind drifting again to the King of Kattegat and the gratitude he holds for him having been so readily at his aid. People are bustling about even in the late hour, and the Irishman keeps his eyes peeled for the Northman.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

After wiping out the camp of the King of Wessex’s guardsmen, Ragnar and Lagertha prepare for the journey back to the fortress. Both of them covered in blood and the rush of battle burning in their eyes. Ragnar forces a chained Alfred onto a horse, taking the reins in his own hands to lead the prisoner back to the fortress where Uhtred and Finan can decide his fate.

It takes the large group of warriors several hours to make it back to the fortress, many of them nursing injuries and thus slowing their pace. The King has not spoken a word to them, probably knowing the dire straits he has put himself into incurring the wrath of the Irishman and Dane.

When their weary group finally arrives back to Bebbanburg, deep into the middle of the night, Ragnar can’t help the smirk that comes to his lips seeing the Irishman pacing in the courtyard.

“Miss me?” Ragnar teases as he halts his horse in front of the Irishman, his eyes glowing with a mischievous look.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Finan’s gaze bashfully falls at Ragnar’s words, trying to hide the immediate blush that rises to his cheeks. He shrugs, picking his head up a moment later to look into the Viking’s eyes.

“I, uh… wanted to make sure you all made it back,” Finan drawls, slowly striding to Ragnar’s horse. When the Northman dismounts, Finan’s eyes fall again.

“I wanted to tell ya how grateful I am for your assistance. How grateful we all are. We are in your debt, surely.” The Irishman drawls in his deep brogue. When his dark eyes meets Ragnar’s again, he offers him a little smirk at that still glowing gaze.

“Thank you. Again,” Finan says.

@lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar doesn’t miss the blush that colors the Irishman’s cheeks at his words. His smirk deepening at Finan’s reaction. He has to admit, they made a good pair, sneaking into the cottage and rescuing his Lord. It’s been awhile since the Northman has felt the rush of such a mission. Felt the rush of battle, even if it was short lived, the Saxons couldn’t hold a candle to their strength.

“We would have made it back sooner, but there were several injured warriors. We wanted to ensure everyone made it back.” Ragnar glances back at the others still stumbling into the courtyard. “We only suffered a few casualties…”

Giving a little shrug of his shoulders, Ragnar grins at Finan as if it was no big thing. “I told you I would offer you my sword if you ever had need of it during my stay here in Bebbanburg. Besides…I think we made a pretty good team.” The Northman winks.

“What do you want to do with him?” Ragnar nods towards Alfred still sitting on his horse.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[lagertha-lothbrok]

After settling his Lord in the comfort of their chamber and attending to him, Finan strides to the courtyard, his mind drifting again to the King of Kattegat and the gratitude he holds for him having been so readily at his aid. People are bustling about even in the late hour, and the Irishman keeps his eyes peeled for the Northman.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

After wiping out the camp of the King of Wessex’s guardsmen, Ragnar and Lagertha prepare for the journey back to the fortress. Both of them covered in blood and the rush of battle burning in their eyes. Ragnar forces a chained Alfred onto a horse, taking the reins in his own hands to lead the prisoner back to the fortress where Uhtred and Finan can decide his fate.

It takes the large group of warriors several hours to make it back to the fortress, many of them nursing injuries and thus slowing their pace. The King has not spoken a word to them, probably knowing the dire straits he has put himself into incurring the wrath of the Irishman and Dane.

When their weary group finally arrives back to Bebbanburg, deep into the middle of the night, Ragnar can’t help the smirk that comes to his lips seeing the Irishman pacing in the courtyard.

“Miss me?” Ragnar teases as he halts his horse in front of the Irishman, his eyes glowing with a mischievous look.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

Walking towards the village with Hati nipping at his heels, Uhtred grins down at his pup. Hati has grown by leaps and bounds since his rescue in the forest, and now he’s like a shadow to Uhtred following the Dane everywhere he goes. The day is unseasonably warm, the warm before the storm. There are not many good hunting days left as winter quickly approaches.

Approaching Björn and Ronan’s cottage, Uhtred opens the metal gate before stepping into the yard. He smiles at the home the young couple have made for one another, remembering fondly when he surprised them with a romantic gesture. However, today he has other plans. He has not had very many opportunities to spend time with Finan’s oldest. To bond with his husband’s son, and he would very much like to rectify that. Ronan is important to Finan and thus important to him as well. What better way to bond with the young man, then to take him hunting to build up their winter stores.

Rapping on the door of the cottage, Uhtred waits for the prince to answer, hopeful that the young man will be receptive to spending some time with him.

@askuhtredragnarson

Holding his baby kitten in his arm, the prince pads to the door. Typically he takes a look out the window to see who it is, but his intuition and foresight grows stronger as he nurses it over time. He can’t tell who it is, but it’s someone in the family. He can feel it.

Swinging the door of their cottage open, Ronan smiles.

“Lord Uhtred…” he greets him, smiling down at his pup. It wasn’t completely rare to see Uhtred in the village, but his presence radiated like no other’s in this part could. He’s a leader that everyone respects and adores.

“… ehm, to what do I owe the pleasure?”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred gives Ronan a sheepish smile, as Hati chews on a strap of leather on his boots. “I was curious if you’d like to go hunting with me. It’s a beautiful day and I was hoping we could find a deer or some boar to add to our winter supplies. It won’t be long before it’s too cold and the winter storms make hunting difficult.”

Offering the prince a warm smile, Uhtred tries to shake Hati off his boot letting out a chuckle as the pup playfully growls.

“You and I haven’t had many chances to spend time together. To get to know one another, and I would like to change that. I have had a chance to bond with little Tora, and I would like the chance to do the same with you. I figured you might prefer hunting than sparring…” Uhtred tilts his head as he raises an eyebrow.

“Your father means the world to me, and you mean the world to him. That make you important to me as well.” Uhtred softens his eyes at the young Irishman.

“Will your husband let me steal you away for a bit?” The Dane smirks.

@ronanofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

Ronan raises his brows and tilts his head at Uhtred’s words, surprised at such an offer. Nevertheless, it sounds like an amazing idea, and so considerate of him to reach out to him like this. The prince smiles warmly, giving the Dane a nod.

“I would love to! … please, come on in!” the prince rings out, stepping aside and holding the door open for him.

“Bear… Lord Uhtred is here,” Ronan says, walking to the kitchen where Björn sits. He hands Mara to him, grinning when the Northman cradles the little kitten against his chest. “He’s invited me on a hunt,” the prince grins, feeling a little special that Uhtred sought him out.

“Make yerself at home, Lord. I’ll just put on some warmer clothes and I’ll be ready in no time…

We have food and drink, please help yerself to it…”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Stepping into the cottage, Uhtred takes in the cozy home as a warm smile comes to his face. Seeing Björn sitting in the kitchen, Uhtred follows Ronan, giving the Northman a nod of greeting.

“I hope you don’t mind if I borrow your husband for a little while.” Uhtred asks the Northman.

Björn looks up at Uhtred as he plops a piece of meat into his mouth. There is a wariness in his eyes that the Dane notices, and he’s not sure if it’s from their past grievances or maybe his protectiveness for the prince. Uhtred can’t say he blames him, he himself struggles to let Finan out of his sight.

“Where are you planning on going hunting?” Björn asks looking up at the Dane.

“The forest just beyond the village…” Uhtred answers. “I used to go hunting there when I was a youth. I remember it being heavy with deer tracks, and sometimes you can come across a wild boar in those woods.”

Björn nods his head having been through that forest himself recently in his own efforts to provide meat for his family. “The game has been plentiful…” the warrior muses.

“We should be back well before dusk…It’s my hope we can both bring home a plump deer. Ease my own husband’s mind about having enough stores to get us through the winter…” Uhtred chuckles remembering Finan’s concerns about their preparedness for the colder months.

“I would have taken Finan with me, but I believe he was planning on going foraging in the forest with Revna. Something about them needing to stock up on ginger and peppermint…” The Dane smiles as he shakes his head. 

“I figure this gives me a chance to bond with my step son…”

@ronanofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

While Uhtred speaks to his husband, the prince dons his cloak and a few leathers, more for warmth than for protection — it’s uncharacteristically warm outside, but Ronan knows he’ll still be freezing. He grabs his set of arrows and a bow, donning his sword belt. For a second he thinks of taking the sword that Ragnar gave him — but it’s much too special. That one needs to be blooded on an important occasion.

The prince snickers to himself when he hears Uhtred tell Björn his hopes of him not minding if they go.

Of course he minds… but he’s also sweet. And it gives Björn time to check up on his own preparations, see the children, check on Lagertha…

Stepping into the kitchen, Ronan hands Uhtred a water skin he filled for him.

“Won’t be too long, eh?” Ronan asks Uhtred, before kneeling at his husband’s side. He gives him a deep kiss, before bringing the kiss to his cheek and whispering in his ear.

“I love you. Don’t miss me too much,” he whispers, sharing a beaming smile and a twinkle in his eyes with Björn.

“I’m ready when you are, Lord.”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

“Easier said than done…you know I miss you every moment we are parted.” The Northman whispers back to Ronan as he nuzzles into his husband. “I love you, my little selkie.”

Uhtred gives the lovers a warm smile feeling the love between them. It reminds him so much of the love he shares with Finan. He is happy for both of them having found one another.

“I’ll have him back before dusk…” The Dane tries to reassure the Northman. “…perhaps earlier if we are successful.” He gives the prince a little wink.

“I am ready.” Uhtred smiles at Ronan. “We’ll go to the fortress and gather our horses, then head off. We’ll need them to carry back our kills. The stable boys should already be preparing them.”

Uhtred gives Björn a final nod before following Ronan out of the cottage, Hati following obediently beside him. “You’re staying at the fortress…” Uhtred warns his pup as he points a stern finger at him. “You’ll probably scare off all the game.” The Dane chuckles as they follow the winding path to the fortress.

When they arrive at the stable, Tintreg is already prancing anxious to go out. With his Serpent’s Breath over his shoulder and Wasp Sting in his belt, Uhtred grabs a spear in case they come across a boar, along with a bow and quiver of arrows. Picking up Hati, the Dane hands the pup to the stable boy to hold him until they are out of the gate. The pup immediately starts whining and trying to wiggle from the boy’s grasp.

“Soon, Hati…I’ll take you hunting with me once you’re a little less…rambunctious.” Uhtred chuckles.

“Ready?” The Dane looks over to Ronan, giving the young prince a smile before he mounts his horse. Once Ronan is settled on his horse, Uhtred leads them to the gate and to the trail leading to the forest.

@ronanofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

“Before dusk, bear!” Ronan rings out as he echoes Uhtred’s words, squeezing Björn’s hand until the distance grows between them.

“Yes, Lord,” Ronan tells Uhtred regarding the horses. He feels a slight tremble in his hands that is so rare to him, perhaps even a feeling in his gut. The prince brushes it off though, knowing that he’s likely just nervous to be alone with Uhtred. He admires him so much, and the Dane was right — they hadn’t really had the chance to spend too much time together alone. Ronan felt comfortable around him, but Uhtred is just such a strong presence.

“He’s cute,” Ronan grins, smiling down at Hati.

“He is growin’ so fast!!”

Taking his bag to his own horse, the prince straps it in and settles it before swiftly mounting up.

“Ready, Lord!” He nods, before kicking his horse into a trot as he follows Uhtred’s lead. They slowly trot past the gates, kicking their horses into a quicker gallop as they leave.

“So… everything is alright. Right?” Ronan asks Uhtred after a few moments, still getting that weird feeling come over him.

“You aren’t takin’ me out to have some sort of conversation with me, are you?”

The prince can’t imagine what that conversation could be. Something about duty, or love, or Bebbanburg… who knows. When Uhtred lets out a billowing laugh, the prince calms, knowing then that he’s likely wrong.

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred glances over at Ronan with a playful smirk. “What? Gods, no…” the Dane laughs. “I figure you get enough of that from your father.” He winks at Ronan, with a light-hearted look.

“I haven’t been outside the fortress much since my injury…and since the attack on the village.” Uhtred admits looking over at Ronan. “I used to roam these hills when I was a child, exploring. I have missed that since my return to Bebbanburg.” A wistfulness comes to his eyes, memories of years long past crossing his mind.

“I just figured you might enjoy exploring it with me…” Uhtred smiles at Ronan. “Maybe show off to your husband your skills at hunting.”

“Speaking of Björn, how is married life treating you?” Uhtred gives the young man a teasing look. “I’d say, I haven’t seen much of you since the wedding.”

“I often wish I would have postponed the march on Bebbanburg a little longer…” Uhtred reveals a hint of sadness in his eyes. “…to give your father the honeymoon he deserved. Instead of the heartbreak I ultimately gave him in my haste to claim our home. Maybe things would have gone differently.” The Dane glances down at his chest remembering the arrow that almost took his life. He is thankful the wound has finally healed and now he can rebuild the strength he has lost from the injury.

Seeing some deer tracks up ahead in the forest, Uhtred slows his horse to jump down and examine them. “They look fresh…” he comments as his crouches down to touch the print in the wet dirt. Looking around the trail, he spots some deer droppings, flies buzzing around the fresh pile. “Look…” he points it out to Ronan. “…there should be a deer close by.”

@ronanofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

“Thank God,” Ronan says, returning Uhtred’s laugh.

“Yes, of course Lord. I’m grateful you asked me. That you are finally coming out again, and it’s me you chose to do it with,” the prince smiles.

“… I must admit Lord, I rarely part from him, and I enjoy the times I share with his children. We are very happy.” Ronan says, a little blush rising to his cheeks at the thought of it all.

“I never thanked you for what you did for us. How you contributed in makin’ it special. Thank you, Uhtred…”

The prince remembers like it was yesterday how absolutely devastated his father was when Uhtred was injured. Many people were, constant prayers being heeded for the Lord’s recovery, and Ronan even worried that perhaps their siege had been unsuccessful after all. The prince knows now how crushing it would feel to come close to losing the love of his life. He doesn’t even want to imagine it.

Crinkling his nose at Uhtred’s musings at the deer tracks, he steers his horse to follow him. He wasn’t quite keen on the act itself, but he always felt accomplished when it was done.

“Whatever you say, Lord,” Ronan snickers.

As they go further into the forest, the prince whispers to Uhtred, pointing up ahead as he slowly and carefully dismounts his horse.

“There,” he says softly, pointing to a fleet of deer grazing further ahead.

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred chuckles at Ronan’s comment of rarely parting from his love. “I know the feeling. Finan and I are rarely far from one another. Even when we don’t share nights together our chambers are right next to each other. I can still feel his presence nearby.” The Dane smiles wistfully. In the decade he and Finan have been together they have always remained close, even before they professed their love for one another.

“You’re welcome…” Uhtred grins remembering how he decorated their home for their special night. “It was my contribution to your special day. It warms my heart to hear that you enjoyed it.”

Leading Tintreg behind him, Uhtred follows the tracks quietly, keeping his eyes out for their prey. When Ronan points the small fleet of deer ahead of them, the Dane grins thankful that they won’t go home empty handed. He motions to Ronan to dismount, confident that his horse will stay with Tintreg as they stealthily approach the deer. Grabbing his bow and arrows, Uhtred motions with a finger to his mouth that they should be silent so as not to spook the herd away.

When they find a good spot nearby, they crouch down in the brush hiding their presence as they watch the deer for a moment. There is a nice large stag watching over the three or four doe munching on the grass.

“I’ll take a shot at him, if you want to try to get one of the doe.” Uhtred whispers quietly to the young prince, the excitement of the hunt flaring out in his chest. That stag will bring a lot of meat to the fortress, and will help put his husband’s mind at ease for the upcoming winter.

@ronanofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

“Mhm…” the prince hums, quietly crouching down next to Uhtred as he readies his bow and draws an arrow. He slowly begins his aim, seconds away from loosening his shot before something in the distance spooks their game, and the deer start running.

“Shit…” Ronan rasps out, looking at Uhtred. When he hears something in the distance, likely what scared the deer away, he furrows his brows and holds Uhtred’s eye contact as they listen.

@askuhtredragnarson

[alfredofwessex69]

“Greetings, Lord.” A voice beckons from the forest, the sound of crunching leaves coming into awareness as Steapa’s band of men slowly surround the Dane and Finan’s eldest. The Kingsguard smiles at Uhtred’s immediate shock, giving him a mocking nod before his eyes drift to Ronan.

“You keep the most beautiful company,” Steapa says, a chuckle under his breath. “Perhaps even dangerous… but this time, I came prepared.”

Men of Wessex draw their swords as they come closer, creating a shield of men with no means of an exit as they surround the Dane and the Prince. Steapa draws his sword, joining them in the middle.

“My King wishes to speak with you, and the answer that falls from your lips will be yes. Won’t it, Uhtred?”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

As soon as he hears the Kingsguard’s voice, Uhtred’s hand immediately goes behind him to rest on the hilt of his sword. When the King’s men surround him and Ronan, the pit in his stomach grows. There are too many of them to fight off, without risking the life of his husband’s son. Finan would never forgive him if Ronan was hurt as a result of his foolishness. Not to mention, the Northman might just kill him himself if his prince is harmed.

He subtly motions for Ronan to get behind him, not liking the way Steapa is looking at him.

Uhtred’s chin comes up as a hard edge comes to his jaw at Steapa’s demand. He wants to tell the warrior to go to Hel, that he wants nothing to do with his King, but to do that would put the prince’s life in danger.

“You will let him go, if I agree to talk to your King.” It’s not a question, it’s a statement, the hard edge to Uhtred’s voice unmistakable. 

“If any harm comes to him, I will quarter you myself…” the Dane threatens as he glares into Steapa’s eyes.

@ronanofulaid @alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

“I don’t think you have anything to bargain with, Uhtred…” Steapa says with a chuckle, taking a look around at his men.

“You will meet our demands this time. No bargains… no agreements. Nothing…

Take hold of him.” He commands the men, knowing Uhtred won’t make any haste to dispatch them. He’d be a fool to with their numbers.

With the seething look in Uhtred’s eyes, Steapa appeals to the gentler of the two, knowing that he’s finally got both of them right where he wants them.

“How’s this…” Steapa says then, looking at Ronan as he sheaths his sword and draws his dagger.

“You come with me, or I slit his throat, and your Lord dies right here.”

@askuhtredragnarson

[ronanofulaid]

Squeezing Uhtred’s arm with his hand, the shudder that runs through Ronan’s body can practically be felt by the Dane as his breath hitches.

“No! No… I’ll do it,” Ronan speaks up shakily. This was what he felt the whole time out in the forest, an unsettled grief in the pit of his stomach, and he’d been ignoring it the whole time. As Steapa brings his dagger up to point at Ronan’s throat, the prince doesn’t hesitate to disarm his sword belt and drop his own weapons to the ground at Steapa’s command.

He’s too valuable. They won’t hurt him…

I’m at your command, Lord. I will not betray you…

I will not.

Nodding at Uhtred, Ronan hopes that somehow, some way the Dane can hear his thoughts.

“I’ll come with you.” Ronan agrees, a steady decision in his voice.

I’ll be fine.

Ronan scoffs as Steapa grabs him harshly by the arm, leading him away as the guardsmen take Uhtred in another direction.

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred tries to shirk out of the men’s hold, but it is futile, there are just too many of them. He seethes at Steapa, his words tasting bitter in his mouth. His heart is pounding in his chest as the Kingsguard points his dagger at Ronan, the pit in his stomach growing as he watches the prince drop his weapons on the ground.

“Ronan…” Uhtred softly whispers shaking his head no at the young man. A look of apology in the Dane’s eyes. This is all his fault. He should have known better than to venture out into the forest, and taking Ronan with him thus putting his life in danger as well.

He was just tired of feeling like a prisoner in his own home…

“Finan will kill you for this…his husband will kill you for laying hands on him.” Uhtred nods at Ronan, a scowl on his face directed to Steapa.

“Have you heard of a blood eagle? That is what you will be facing if the Northman gets his hands on you.” Uhtred spits on the ground as he glares at his former friend. “You will pray for death before he is done with you.”

As the guardsmen pull him away, Uhtred drags his feet trying to wrestle out of their hold. If anything the tracks left behind will tell a story of what happened. A guard lands a punch to Uhtred’s gut for his efforts of delaying them. As they force Uhtred towards a path in the forest he spots a wagon up ahead. He tries again in vain to pull out of their hold, his fighting spirit not wanting to give up. They dispose him of his weapons, tossing his sword and seax on the ground, before slapping chains on his wrists in an effort to subdue the warrior. They force him into the wagon before taking off to an unknown destination.

Gods, Finan…find Ronan, save your son…

Uhtred looks up to the sky beseeching his Gods.

@ronanofulaid @alfredofwessex69

[ronanofulaid]

As the Wessex guardsmen drag Uhtred away to a caged wagon, Steapa pulls Ronan along in the opposite direction. The prince doesn’t fight it — he thinks perhaps if he did, it would only make things worse.

Pushing the prince against a tree, Steapa forces his hands in front of him, immediately tying them with rope into harsh knots. Ronan winces at the tightness of them as Steapa pulls him along by an extension of the rope. They walk for a great while, until a desolate cabin comes into view. The prince’s eye widen in a feeling of Deja vu when he realizes that this was once a dream that kept him tossing and turning a few nights before him and Björn’s wedding. Gods, if only he could sharpen his ability. Learn to control it, and wield it… to prevent such horrors from happening.

Björn, hear me. I’m here. I’m right here. Not far…

The prince uses his thoughts like a mantra, repeating the words in his head over and over again. All he can do is try, and hope that somehow it gets through. The Gods gave him his sight for a reason, and surely he could get through to his husband, even with just his mind.

Björn! Hear me!

The prince huffs as Steapa roughly pulls him into the cabin, his heart racing at whatever may happen next.

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

As the wagon rolls down the dirt path, Uhtred glares out of the bars of the metal cage at the men surrounding him. Hanging his head he tries to calm the racing of his heart as memories of the last time he was in a metal cage on a wagon flash before his eyes.

They are taking me to Alfred…not to the Trader. 

Not that it’s any better.

Uhtred repeats it to himself over and over again. He tries to pull at the metal cuffs around his wrists but they won’t budge, and it just furthers his frustration.

How could I be so stupid…How could I endanger my husband’s son…

A growl erupts from Uhtred’s chest as he elbows the bars of the cage, his fury growing. The sun dips below the horizon as darkness starts to fall. It’s been hours of travel, his legs already feeling cramped in the narrow cage. He still has no idea where the men are taking him, as they turn off the main trail onto an even narrower one. One that could be missed easily if you didn’t know what you are looking for. He can smell rain in the air as dark clouds block out the stars starting to shine.

The rain will wash away their tracks…

Uhtred feels disheartened the further away from home he gets, unsure if his love will be able to find him. Unsure of what Alfred’s true intentions are towards him. Uhtred scowls at the men surrounding the wagon imagining how he is going to dispatch each and every one of them.

Suddenly the wagon lurches to a stop, and Uhtred tries to take in his surroundings the best that he can in the darkness. It appears to be a cottage, he can see candlelight flickering in a window. One of the guardsmen throws open the door to the cage before grabbing the chains that bind Uhtred’s wrists. He yanks the Dane out, laughing as Uhtred falls to the ground. Uhtred stands up glaring at the guardsman before head butting him. Another man comes up behind Uhtred laying a punch against his back, knocking the breath from the warrior.

“Come…” the guard behind Uhtred orders, obviously speaking to the other men. “He wants him chained up inside, so that he can’t escape…”

Dragging Uhtred inside the sparsely furnished cottage they bring him to a spot between two posts where chains are dangling down. The men strip Uhtred of his armor and his tunic before chaining him to the posts, his arms outstretched.

“Our King, will be with you shortly…” The men laugh before they take their leave of the Dane.

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

As the guardsmen leave, a few long minutes pass before a familiar silhouette enters the room.

“I won’t hurt you. But you’ve made this impossible, Uhtred…” Alfred says solemnly as he approaches. His eyes drift to Uhtred’s torso momentarily, and the King feels his cheeks turn red hot.

“I’ve made mistakes. I’ve done terrible, horrible things to you, and I don’t deserve your forgiveness…

But we are bonded, you and I,” Alfred says, looking into Uhtred’s eyes. His pride finally shatters, speaking to the Dane with pleading eyes and an open heart.

“I regret that it’s come to this, but I had to speak to you again. We have wronged each other… numbers of times. But I constantly come to the realization, that I am lost without you.”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred lets out a mirthless laugh as he glances down at the chains that bind him. “You’re right…you don’t deserve my forgiveness…

…and we are not bonded. I was only ever your hound. The one you sent to fight your battles. To fight for your dreams, while you did nothing but crush mine.” The Dane seethes as he glares into Alfred’s eyes.

“Taking my family from me, my wife…” Uhtred shakes his head. “Why? Were you hoping I’d seek comfort in your arms? That I would cling to you in my darkest hour…” the warrior huffs out a breath, rage barely concealed under the surface.

He knows he should offer the King placating words, tell him what he wants to hear to get him to let down his guard, but he can’t bring himself to do it. He cannot lie to himself in order to please his captor.

“I will fall to my knees for no man, no king and no Christian God…never again.”

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

“I don’t need you to bend the knee to me,” Alfred says, shaking his head. “I-I don’t even need your sword…”

Stepping closer, Alfred looks into the Dane’s eyes intently.

“Have you not accomplished your dreams? Have you not resumed your birthright… achieved all you set out to accomplish?

Uhtred, I am sorry. I was young, and foolish, and reckless… selfish. Yes, I did think that at one time. I did.” Alfred admits.

“Tell me. Tell me how I can make this right between us. I will do anything,” the King says, in a tone that’s so rare to him.

“I don’t expect you to bow. I don’t expect anything but for you to see that I…” Alfred sighs.

“I care deeply for you. I always have. It’s the reason I sent your brother for you when you were at sea. We are bonded. Even if it’s in a way that you despise.”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

“Yes, I have accomplished my dreams of reclaiming my birthright, with no help from you…not even as a thanks for all my years of service for you.” Uhtred sneers at the King. “It almost cost me my life…” the Dane glances at the scar near his collarbone. “…but now my family has a home that no one can take from us.” Uhtred can’t help that jab at the King, remembering how he stripped him of his lands and titles in Coccham.

“There is only one man whom I am bonded to. One man that holds my heart forever….and you endeavored to take him from me as well. Kidnapping his wife to ransom him to his brother in the hopes that he would be killed.

In the hopes that my heart would be freed…” Uhtred spits on the ground in disgust.

“If you care so deeply for me, then why do you endeavor to take everything I hold dear away from me? Is it because you are jealous of the love I had for Gisela? The love I have for Finan?

You can’t stand the fact that he is the one I lay with. The one I share my heart and my bed with…” Uhtred cocks an eyebrow at Alfred.

“Tell me why you can’t let me go. Tell me what it is you really want from me.”

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

Alfred glares at him, his stoic expression only punctuated by a subtle flare in his nostrils, a slight mistiness in his eyes.

“I want what Finan has. I always have. Does that please you?” The King says, his voice slightly raised.

“Does it please you to see me weak with this?” Alfred seethes.

“I bear my heart fruitlessly. Because you refuse to grow. To change,” Alfred says, shaking his head. It’s then that Steapa enters the room. When he sees the King visibly upset, he takes a hand to his shoulder, and the King effectively storms out of the room to cool off.

“You really are set in your ways, aren’t you Lord?” Steapa says. “Uhtred of Bebbanburg, never to bow to any man, any God… even if it would be easier.”

Taking a few steps closer, Steapa grabs a steel rod, playing with it in his hands like a threat.

“The prince is so beguiling…” Steapa says to Uhtred with a smirk.

“I have to wonder… is he a whore just like his father? Will he beg for it? Or will he beg me to stop?”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

“Does that please me?” The Dane shakes his head. “That a man who has sought, time after time, to destroy my life, to take away all that I hold dear, does it out of some twisted sense of love. 

If that’s even what you can call it. Sounds more like lust in my ears.” Uhtred replies in a mocking tone. “You will never have this…” the warrior glances down his chest in show. “Only one man will have that pleasure…my husband.”

Uhtred huffs out a breath. “I refuse to grow? To change? Yet I’m the one who has been stolen from my home…being held in chains. All I beg of you is distance…to live my life in peace.”

As Steapa enters the room, Uhtred’s eyes narrow as a sneer comes to his face. “You know me…I never take the easy way out. I speak my truth, whether he wants to hear it or not.

…and what, now the King’s dog is here to do his bidding?” Uhtred smirks watching as Steapa plays with a steel rod. If the Kingsguard thinks Uhtred will show him fear with his thinly veiled threat, then he truly doesn’t know the Dane.

At Steapa’s next words, a red hot rage comes over Uhtred as the Dane tries to take a step forward. He growls in frustration as the chains limit his movements. He tries to kick the Kingsguard but narrowly misses him as Steapa steps just out of reach.

“You lay one hand on him, and I will personally cut off your cock, and stuff it into your mouth.” Uhtred growls out, barely hiding the shudder of rage that courses through him. They can do whatever they want to him, but if they hurt Ronan, neither the King or his guardsman will make it out of this alive.

Visions of a similar event arises in Uhtred’s mind…when Aelfric took Finan, and he instantly feels sick to his stomach.

“Let him go!” Uhtred growls out between clenched teeth.

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

Steapa shakes his head. “Not that easily.”

Stepping a little closer, Steapa looks into Uhtred’s eyes.

“All of this can be resolved. All of it… but you refuse to submit. You refuse to address him with respect, and acknowledge your bond…

Unfortunately for you, Lord, the King will have you willingly, or as a prisoner. He won’t live his last years without you. He was to let you reside here, in Bebbanburg… but not without you sworn to him once more. So we are in route to Wessex at dawn. Don’t worry… the Prince will be joining us as well. He’ll just be with me.” Steapa chuckles.

“I can’t wait for him to see our lands.”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

“I will never submit to him…” Uhtred growls out. “I will never acknowledge a bond, because there is no bond. The only bond I have is the one I share with my husband.”

“I will never be what he wants me to be…he will never have what Finan has.” Uhtred roars as he glares daggers at Steapa. “I will never let him touch me…”

“I have already given him too much of my life. Too much for someone who valued me so little. I will not swear myself to him again. He is not my King.”

“Ronan belongs here. In Bebbanburg. With his husband.” Uhtred seethes his head shaking as a mirthless smile comes to his face. “None of this is going to bode well for either of you, when Björn Ironside finds you. Not to mention, the Northman’s father.”

A cocky look comes to Uhtred’s eyes, refusing to be intimidated by the King and his guard. “Dawn might be too late for you…You’re crazy if you think our men aren’t already on your trail. They will find him…”

Please, Finan…find your son. Save him.

I’m so sorry this happened…

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

“He was married, hm?” Steapa asks, cocking his head. A smirk comes across his face as Uhtred glares at him.

“Suit yourself, Lord. A few of my men here might be able to change your mind…”

Steapa leaves the room then, a few of Alfred’s men joining in his place. Some to keep watch, and others to coerce him with force.

[askuhtredragnarson]

“He was…to a man worthy of him. A Northman, who will happily end your life for taking him from him.” Uhtred glares at Steapa. He only wishes he could be there to bear witness to the Northman’s wrath against the Kingsguard.

“They can try, but my resolve will not waver.” Uhtred glares at the other men coming into the cottage. Their hair wet from the rain that has just started falling outside.

“I will not submit to him…” Uhtred yells at Steapa’s retreating back. Before turning his attention to the other guardsmen. A cocky smile coming to his face despite the rage drumming under his skin. He will not show weakness to these cowards. Even as the first man lays a punch to his stomach, Uhtred hides his pain behind a laugh.

“Is that all you’ve got?” The Dane taunts the men. They could knock him senseless, and he still won’t give into their demands. He belongs to one man, and one man only. Finan.

The King will never get that which he desire. Uhtred will never be a willing participant.

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

“Enough!!” Alfred shouts as he reenters the room. He shews the guardsmen away, taking a look at the bloodied lip Uhtred sustained. Thankfully, they left his face otherwise unmarred.

“Take him to my chamber. Leave his wrists and ankles bound,” Alfred orders them.

The Saxons quickly work to take the Dane’s ankles up in chains, letting each of his wrists loose before securing them again with irons in front of him. They drag Uhtred along with them until they reach a room, a chamber set up for the King as regally as possible. The put Uhtred into a chair forcefully, taking more chains to secure his wrists to the armrests.

“Leave us,” Alfred commands. He picks up a vial from the table, taking some of the liquid onto his finger and then onto Uhtred’s bottom lip at the Dane’s absolute revolt.

“Relax. Give in to it.” Alfred says, running his hand up Uhtred’s arm. The tonic he gave up will make his body feel limp, his mind a bit more pliable.

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred raises his hanging head at Alfred’s shout. His tongue darting out to the cut on his lip tasting the blood. Alfred’s men have done a number on him, but thankfully nothing is broken. He shakes his head, a cocky look in his eyes as his breaths come out in pants. He imagines bruises are flaring out on his chest and stomach from the blows, but he still won’t submit.

The Saxons remove his boots and quickly fashion chains on the Dane’s ankles. The weight of them reminding him of other chains from a time long ago.

This will not break me…

Uhtred focuses his mind on his love, on Finan. Seeing the Irishman’s face in his thoughts strengthens his resolve. Gives purpose to the pain flaring out in his chest. His bond with Finan helped him survive the Trader, it will help him survive this.

As the men lower his arms replacing the chains on his wrists, Uhtred feels the blood rushing down to his hands as a tingling feeling takes over. The numbness he was starting to feel from their raised position, now uncomfortable as they start to wake. Uhtred nearly stumbles as the men drag him into another room, a chambers fit for a King, a stark difference to the rest of the cottage. He swallows back a knot in his throat at the large bed looming in the center of the room, thankful when the men take him to a chair instead. But not without a struggle. Ignoring the pain in his torso, Uhtred tries to pull out of their hold, but just like in the forest, there are too many of them.

Once he’s been properly secured, the men leave at their King’s behest and Uhtred’s attention shifts to Alfred. He feels his stomach drop at the vial in Alfred’s hands, recalling again the tonic his love was given at the hands of his uncle. Uhtred tries to turn his face away, but it doesn’t stop the King from running his finger across his bottom lip. He tries to spit out whatever the concoction is, but he fears it has already started absorbing into his blood stream.

“What do you hope to gain by this?” Uhtred challenges. “I will not give into it.” Goosebumps prickle at the King’s touch across his arm as a shiver runs down his spine.

“I will not betray my husband…” Uhtred seethes as he glares at the King.

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

“I don’t think that’s true,” Alfred says softly, running his hands across Uhtred’s shoulders.

“I think… you’ve thought about it. Especially in the marshes. When you were in Coccham. All those times we shared in Wessex when your children were young…” he says. He kneels before the Dane, bringing his fingers to the laces of his breeches and toying with them, not yet unlacing. He comes closer to Uhtred, placing a soft kiss on his lips, loving the soft suppleness of them.

“Is that what I’ve been missing?” He asks, whispering against his lips.

“Perhaps I should have them unchain you. I have no doubt you would behave now.”

Standing from his knelt position, the King takes Uhtred’s chin.

“Whatever you had with the Irishman… is over.”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred bristles at the King’s hands on his shoulders. “Then you are delusional…” the Dane mutters out.

The King’s reminiscing about a time long ago stirs no feelings within the Dane. At least not the feeling he expects. Sure they spent time together, and at one time him might have considered Alfred a friend, but never nothing more than that. Not when his heart already belonged to another.

When the King’s hands rest at the laces of his breeches, Uhtred tries to shift away, but his legs and arms are starting to feel heavy, and he can barely move them. He growls in frustration, feeling a haziness in his head like his thoughts are becoming fuzzy. He tries to turn his head away from Alfred’s kiss, but his movements are becoming slow. It irks him that he can wipe the moisture from the kiss from his lips.

“It was never yours to miss…” Uhtred utters out, his eyes glaring even though it feels like they are playing tricks on him. “My cock will not rise for you…I have no desire in my body to be touched by you.”

“It’s not over…he is my husband. The love of my life.” Uhtred growls defiantly. He closes his eyes as the room starts spinning. He can feel his heart pounding in his chest as the tonic pulls him further under it’s spell.

“I will not give you what you want…” It becomes a mantra in Uhtred’s head as he tries desperately to fight the effect of the tonic.

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

“Oh, you will, my dear. I don’t care if it takes days… months, years. You will not be returning to Bebbanburg, and the more you fight it, the more exhausted you’ll be.”

Leaving and returning with some men, Alfred orders them to unchain Uhtred from the chair, and carry him to the bed.

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Following the route the best he can, Finan leads his guardsmen through the dark, Ragnar at his side on his horse. It’s been hours by now, and Finan’s mind is reeling. The love of his life, and his baby. Alfred had single handedly hurt every person he truly loved now, and he was finished with it. He should have killed the King when Revna was taken, and now… he regrets not doing it with his entire soul.

Along the way, the Irishman gives coin generously to villagers who can say whether or not they had witnessed something, and as they come in contact with watchmen from Wessex, they threaten them with their lives to get them to talk. Between Finan and Ragnar, their ruthlessness is palpable and quite effective throughout the travel, but the hours long journey starts to make the Irishman worry.

“What happens if I kill him?” He drawls to Ragnar lowly. When the Viking shrugs and gives him a teasing smirk, Finan smiles.

It’s settled in his mind. He will kill every last one of them, if needed. He prays that Revna and Bjorn had some luck with their own search. Finan can’t handle even the thought of them not finding his son, nor does he let his mind waiver to thoughts of his husband being long gone. Never.

One of Revna’s ravens had stopped in on them throughout the night, seemingly leading them in the right direction or correcting forks in the road. He disappeared for a while, but when he returns, the raven’s caws lead Finan to a turn of direction that leads them all to the very edge of a Saxon settlement and camp. Thankfully… it’s nighttime, so they could attack most of them with the element of surprise. He looks at Ragnar with furrowed brows, perhaps in a question of guidance before he does something crazy like Bjorn stated earlier.

@askuhtredragnarson @lagertha-lothbrok

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred makes a feeble attempt to shake his head no. “I’m not going anywhere with you…my husband will find me. You should pray to your God for a swift death…”

He can feel himself getting weaker as his limbs feel like dead weight. Uhtred tries to focus on Finan, to give him strength. When he opens his eyes, for a moment he sees the Irishman before him. He feels hope flare out in his chest, but the image is blurry at the edges and quickly fades being replaced by Alfred standing before him.

As the men unchain him to be moved to the bed, he can barely feel it. Only the touch on his skin while everything else feels numb. Uhtred lets out a groan as they lift him from the chair. He wants to fight, as he grits his teeth, but his body won’t cooperate. He is at their mercy as they roughly manhandle him onto the furs.

“I will not give you what you want….” Uhtred repeats, barely above a whisper.

@alfredofwessex69

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar sits on his horse, running his hand through his beard as they look upon the settlement and camp. He can see guards milling about, while he assumes the rest have retired for the night. The pitch black of the sky offers them a good cover, and he’s sure they could kill most of them before an alarm is even raised, but once it is time is of the essence. Glancing back, the Northman smiles at the large number of men who have joined them in their search.

“…if an alarm sounds, will they kill your Lord?” Ragnar asks the Irishman as he glances over at him.

“We need to find where he is held, before we rush in blindly. Our force can easily decimated them…but it will be for naught if they kill Uhtred.” he comments as more men join their ranks, having heard of the Lord’s capture. He gives a nod to Lagertha sitting not far behind them on her white horse.

The raven flys overhead towards a cottage sitting off in the distance. Ragnar taps Finan’s shoulder before pointing at the majestic bird landing in the thatch of the cottage. 

“There…” Ragnar nods towards the raven. “Perhaps we should take a closer look?” He asks as he looks into Finan’s eyes.

Ragnar motions Lagertha forward, and when she sides her horse between the two men, Ragnar gives her a little smirk. He can already feel the drum of battle in his blood as an almost giddy feeling comes over him. He shakes it off as a serious look comes over his face.

“The Irishman and I are going to sneak over there and investigate the cottage…” he motions with his head. “You stand at the ready to lead our men to battle…wipe all of them out…”

“Once we have Lord Uhtred secured…I’m sure the raven will let you know when it’s time.” Ragnar gives the Shieldmaiden a playful smile. 

“In the meantime, have the men surround the settlement…”

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

“They won’t kill him,” Finan says in a stern brogue, his dark eyes drifting over the settlement.

He’s too precious…

The Irishman takes a shuddering breath. Thank the Gods Ragnar is with him, someone just as experienced or more so to lead alongside him while his heart dances on the edge. A simmering rage boils in his blood, sharpened by a powerful fear in his heart for the man he loves more than anything in the world.

Finan’s eyes follow Ragnar’s as the raven lands upon the thatch of the cottage, and instantly his heart says yes. For most of his life, he never paid any heed to such signs— but at his mother’s pagan ways, and his marriages to both a Shieldmaiden and a Dane, he trusted it more than any holy relic with meager results.

“Don’t hesitate,” Finan adds to Ragnar’s words to Lagertha, before dismounting his horse. He waits for the Northman to do the same, before drawing his dagger.

“Let’s move.”

Moving by stealth in the darkness, the Irishman leads as the two of them sneak around the forest’s edge, coming closer to the cottage in the distance.

“… how are we gonna get in? A window? Bust down the door?” Finan says, almost in jest, but also in a serious question.

@lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Skirting the forest around the cottage, Ragnar follows the Irishman, ever watchful for a guard or man that might notice their presence. He would think the King of Wessex would have scouts posted everywhere watching for their arrival, but maybe his foolish to believe he will get away with his plans. The rain has stopped and the clouds above are starting to break revealing the stars.

The two men hide behind a couple large boulders at they watch the cottage for any movement. There are men posted out front and a couple walking the perimeter. Who knows how many are inside.

“I think before we go busting down any doors, we might want to deal with them first.” Ragnar smirks as he motions to the men guarding the cottage.

“Quietly…” he adds.

“We don’t know how many are inside…perhaps we find a way to lure them out?” Ragnar suggests as he cocks an inquisitive eye at Finan.

“I know you want to get to him as quickly as possible…” Ragnar tries to calm the Irishman. “…but we should still be cautious. They may not kill him, but it might not stop them from hurting him.”

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Finan nods, looking into Ragnar’s eyes.

“Yer right. Don’t fret… I’m the King of distractions. I learned from the best.”

I’m comin’ for you, babe…

“Stay here a second,” the Irishman tells Ragnar. The Northman likely wouldn’t agree with his hasty decision, but just like the day he stalked into the camp alone to save Revna, Finan walks alone and risks it by himself, without putting anyone else’s life at stake.

Finan stays low as he strides through the shadows, missing guardsmen by hiding behind walls with agility almost forgotten yet easily taken back up. He can see Ragnar’s bewildered frustration even from afar, but he doesn’t let it distract him. He has a memory in mind, one not so long ago, and it drives him.

Grabbing a torch from one of the cottage walls, the Irishman throws it, grinning when it lands on its target, another cottage’s thatch roof yards away. As it starts to smolder, he grabs another, following it with the same motion. He quickly draws his dagger and dispatches two men, as stealthily as he can with his adrenaline driving him.

Fuck. Fuck. Fuck!

Finan sprints back to Ragnar, his heart thudding in his chest as he returns to the Northman’s side with ragged breaths. Damn, it was risky. But it could be enough. His Dane was worth the risk.

@lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

“So much for quietly…” Ragnar utters under his breath as he watches the Irishman light a cottage on fire, a bewildered expression on his face. He bites back a chuckle, shaking his head at the madness before him. Honestly it’s something he would have done too, if he would have thought of it.

Seeing Finan take out the guards walking the perimeter, Ragnar grins. That just leaves the two out front and however many are inside.

When Finan returns to him with ragged breaths, Ragnar can’t help but tease him. “…couldn’t just knock on the door and see who answers? Had to burn a cottage…” The Northman playfully arches his eyebrow. He may have just found someone who matches his level of crazy, he grudgingly admits to himself.

The men watch as the flames lick at the roof of the nearby cottage, smoke pluming up into the sky. Soon the sounds of men shouting fire can be heard through the sleepy settlement. Men rushing with buckets of water to try to put out the flames. 

The two guards stationed out front of the cottage don’t move, and neither does whomever may be inside. That confirms in Ragnar’s mind that the King is indeed inside that cottage, and the guards have been ordered to keep him protected.

“Well….next plan.” Ragnar smirks at Finan. “You take the one on the left and I take the one on the right. Then maybe we can get a view inside the cottage through the window to see what else we might be up against.” 

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

“What can I say?” Finan drawls with a grin, a loving thought in his mind of his beloved.

“It worked, didn’t it?”

As the Irishman catches his breath, he sits next to Ragnar as they wait for the thatch roofs to catch fire. When they finally do, Saxons rush to aid in the effort, effectively providing an ample distraction.

“Alright…”

Finan can’t help but feel his heart racing in his throat, not with the threat ahead but with the worry for his husband. He’d been trying to be strong, but it almost feels like his heart could burst at even the distance between them. Never again, he thinks. The Saxons will never forget my name, or my Lord’s…

With a nudge to Ragnar’s shoulder, the Irishman sprints into action. He takes down the man at the left while the Northman takes the one at the right, effectively cutting him down. The best course of action would be to spy in through a window as the Viking suggested, but Finan can’t help the utter rage beneath his skin that makes him feel indestructible. Without a second thought, he kicks down the door in one swift motion.

“Uhtred!” Finan shouts, striding quickly inside with the Northman behind him. Thankfully, they’re met with only a few more screaming Saxons lunging for them, and Ragnar and Finan end them in bloody strikes. With the quietness, Finan presses on. The cottage is small… but as soon as they reach the end of it, the Irishman is met with his worst nightmare. His husband is chained to a bed with a bare chest, and the King of Wessex is standing over him almost in worship.

“Step… away from him,” Finan seethes, a threat evident in his eyes as he glares at the King.

This is it.

Moving for him quickly, Finan grabs Alfred and throws him against the wall, his hand wrapping around his throat.

@lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

“It worked, didn’t it…” Ragnar playfully mocks in a sing-song voice as he tilts his head from side to side, a smirk playing on his lips.

After the Irishman has a chance to catch his breath, Ragnar pulls out his sword and seax, ready to follow through with the next part of the plan. The guards out front are no match for the two warriors as they cut through them easily. Ragnar moves to the windows to peek inside, but before he even has the chance Finan is already kicking down the door. The Northman shakes his head as he tries to bite back the laughter threatening to rumble through his chest. Before he follows the Irishman inside he hears the raven take flight from the roof, cawing as it flys towards Lagertha and their waiting men.

The Saxons inside the cottage seem startled as they walk through the door, screaming as they lunge towards them. Ragnar drives his seax through one of them, while the other he strikes with his sword. They fall to the floor in a bloody heap.

As soon as they step into the bed chambers, Ragnar sees the utter rage consume the Irishman. The King hovering over his chained husband, his hand trailing down his chest, is enough to drive any person mad with anger.

Everything happens so quickly, Ragnar barely has a chance to react as the Irishman slams the King against the wall, his hands wrapped around his throat.

He’s going to kill him…

Ragnar cautiously approaches the Irishman, holding his hands up in a placating gesture. Finan has every right to be livid, to want to end the man who dared touch his husband, but he has to think beyond that. He has to think of what the implications his actions will cause.

“Hey….hey…” Ragnar puts his hand slowly on Finan’s arm, trying to get him to loosen his grip on the King’s throat. “We have to think this through…you kill him, and it could start a war. For now he is our prisoner…” He tries to reason with the Irishman.

“Tend to your husband…” Ragnar softly suggests. “I will keep watch on the King…we’ll put him in chains like he did to your Lord.” The Northman glances back at the Dane, concerned that he hasn’t seen him move.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

Walking towards the village with Hati nipping at his heels, Uhtred grins down at his pup. Hati has grown by leaps and bounds since his rescue in the forest, and now he’s like a shadow to Uhtred following the Dane everywhere he goes. The day is unseasonably warm, the warm before the storm. There are not many good hunting days left as winter quickly approaches.

Approaching Björn and Ronan’s cottage, Uhtred opens the metal gate before stepping into the yard. He smiles at the home the young couple have made for one another, remembering fondly when he surprised them with a romantic gesture. However, today he has other plans. He has not had very many opportunities to spend time with Finan’s oldest. To bond with his husband’s son, and he would very much like to rectify that. Ronan is important to Finan and thus important to him as well. What better way to bond with the young man, then to take him hunting to build up their winter stores.

Rapping on the door of the cottage, Uhtred waits for the prince to answer, hopeful that the young man will be receptive to spending some time with him.

@askuhtredragnarson

Holding his baby kitten in his arm, the prince pads to the door. Typically he takes a look out the window to see who it is, but his intuition and foresight grows stronger as he nurses it over time. He can’t tell who it is, but it’s someone in the family. He can feel it.

Swinging the door of their cottage open, Ronan smiles.

“Lord Uhtred…” he greets him, smiling down at his pup. It wasn’t completely rare to see Uhtred in the village, but his presence radiated like no other’s in this part could. He’s a leader that everyone respects and adores.

“… ehm, to what do I owe the pleasure?”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred gives Ronan a sheepish smile, as Hati chews on a strap of leather on his boots. “I was curious if you’d like to go hunting with me. It’s a beautiful day and I was hoping we could find a deer or some boar to add to our winter supplies. It won’t be long before it’s too cold and the winter storms make hunting difficult.”

Offering the prince a warm smile, Uhtred tries to shake Hati off his boot letting out a chuckle as the pup playfully growls.

“You and I haven’t had many chances to spend time together. To get to know one another, and I would like to change that. I have had a chance to bond with little Tora, and I would like the chance to do the same with you. I figured you might prefer hunting than sparring…” Uhtred tilts his head as he raises an eyebrow.

“Your father means the world to me, and you mean the world to him. That make you important to me as well.” Uhtred softens his eyes at the young Irishman.

“Will your husband let me steal you away for a bit?” The Dane smirks.

@ronanofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

Ronan raises his brows and tilts his head at Uhtred’s words, surprised at such an offer. Nevertheless, it sounds like an amazing idea, and so considerate of him to reach out to him like this. The prince smiles warmly, giving the Dane a nod.

“I would love to! … please, come on in!” the prince rings out, stepping aside and holding the door open for him.

“Bear… Lord Uhtred is here,” Ronan says, walking to the kitchen where Björn sits. He hands Mara to him, grinning when the Northman cradles the little kitten against his chest. “He’s invited me on a hunt,” the prince grins, feeling a little special that Uhtred sought him out.

“Make yerself at home, Lord. I’ll just put on some warmer clothes and I’ll be ready in no time…

We have food and drink, please help yerself to it…”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Stepping into the cottage, Uhtred takes in the cozy home as a warm smile comes to his face. Seeing Björn sitting in the kitchen, Uhtred follows Ronan, giving the Northman a nod of greeting.

“I hope you don’t mind if I borrow your husband for a little while.” Uhtred asks the Northman.

Björn looks up at Uhtred as he plops a piece of meat into his mouth. There is a wariness in his eyes that the Dane notices, and he’s not sure if it’s from their past grievances or maybe his protectiveness for the prince. Uhtred can’t say he blames him, he himself struggles to let Finan out of his sight.

“Where are you planning on going hunting?” Björn asks looking up at the Dane.

“The forest just beyond the village…” Uhtred answers. “I used to go hunting there when I was a youth. I remember it being heavy with deer tracks, and sometimes you can come across a wild boar in those woods.”

Björn nods his head having been through that forest himself recently in his own efforts to provide meat for his family. “The game has been plentiful…” the warrior muses.

“We should be back well before dusk…It’s my hope we can both bring home a plump deer. Ease my own husband’s mind about having enough stores to get us through the winter…” Uhtred chuckles remembering Finan’s concerns about their preparedness for the colder months.

“I would have taken Finan with me, but I believe he was planning on going foraging in the forest with Revna. Something about them needing to stock up on ginger and peppermint…” The Dane smiles as he shakes his head. 

“I figure this gives me a chance to bond with my step son…”

@ronanofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

While Uhtred speaks to his husband, the prince dons his cloak and a few leathers, more for warmth than for protection — it’s uncharacteristically warm outside, but Ronan knows he’ll still be freezing. He grabs his set of arrows and a bow, donning his sword belt. For a second he thinks of taking the sword that Ragnar gave him — but it’s much too special. That one needs to be blooded on an important occasion.

The prince snickers to himself when he hears Uhtred tell Björn his hopes of him not minding if they go.

Of course he minds… but he’s also sweet. And it gives Björn time to check up on his own preparations, see the children, check on Lagertha…

Stepping into the kitchen, Ronan hands Uhtred a water skin he filled for him.

“Won’t be too long, eh?” Ronan asks Uhtred, before kneeling at his husband’s side. He gives him a deep kiss, before bringing the kiss to his cheek and whispering in his ear.

“I love you. Don’t miss me too much,” he whispers, sharing a beaming smile and a twinkle in his eyes with Björn.

“I’m ready when you are, Lord.”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

“Easier said than done…you know I miss you every moment we are parted.” The Northman whispers back to Ronan as he nuzzles into his husband. “I love you, my little selkie.”

Uhtred gives the lovers a warm smile feeling the love between them. It reminds him so much of the love he shares with Finan. He is happy for both of them having found one another.

“I’ll have him back before dusk…” The Dane tries to reassure the Northman. “…perhaps earlier if we are successful.” He gives the prince a little wink.

“I am ready.” Uhtred smiles at Ronan. “We’ll go to the fortress and gather our horses, then head off. We’ll need them to carry back our kills. The stable boys should already be preparing them.”

Uhtred gives Björn a final nod before following Ronan out of the cottage, Hati following obediently beside him. “You’re staying at the fortress…” Uhtred warns his pup as he points a stern finger at him. “You’ll probably scare off all the game.” The Dane chuckles as they follow the winding path to the fortress.

When they arrive at the stable, Tintreg is already prancing anxious to go out. With his Serpent’s Breath over his shoulder and Wasp Sting in his belt, Uhtred grabs a spear in case they come across a boar, along with a bow and quiver of arrows. Picking up Hati, the Dane hands the pup to the stable boy to hold him until they are out of the gate. The pup immediately starts whining and trying to wiggle from the boy’s grasp.

“Soon, Hati…I’ll take you hunting with me once you’re a little less…rambunctious.” Uhtred chuckles.

“Ready?” The Dane looks over to Ronan, giving the young prince a smile before he mounts his horse. Once Ronan is settled on his horse, Uhtred leads them to the gate and to the trail leading to the forest.

@ronanofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

“Before dusk, bear!” Ronan rings out as he echoes Uhtred’s words, squeezing Björn’s hand until the distance grows between them.

“Yes, Lord,” Ronan tells Uhtred regarding the horses. He feels a slight tremble in his hands that is so rare to him, perhaps even a feeling in his gut. The prince brushes it off though, knowing that he’s likely just nervous to be alone with Uhtred. He admires him so much, and the Dane was right — they hadn’t really had the chance to spend too much time together alone. Ronan felt comfortable around him, but Uhtred is just such a strong presence.

“He’s cute,” Ronan grins, smiling down at Hati.

“He is growin’ so fast!!”

Taking his bag to his own horse, the prince straps it in and settles it before swiftly mounting up.

“Ready, Lord!” He nods, before kicking his horse into a trot as he follows Uhtred’s lead. They slowly trot past the gates, kicking their horses into a quicker gallop as they leave.

“So… everything is alright. Right?” Ronan asks Uhtred after a few moments, still getting that weird feeling come over him.

“You aren’t takin’ me out to have some sort of conversation with me, are you?”

The prince can’t imagine what that conversation could be. Something about duty, or love, or Bebbanburg… who knows. When Uhtred lets out a billowing laugh, the prince calms, knowing then that he’s likely wrong.

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred glances over at Ronan with a playful smirk. “What? Gods, no…” the Dane laughs. “I figure you get enough of that from your father.” He winks at Ronan, with a light-hearted look.

“I haven’t been outside the fortress much since my injury…and since the attack on the village.” Uhtred admits looking over at Ronan. “I used to roam these hills when I was a child, exploring. I have missed that since my return to Bebbanburg.” A wistfulness comes to his eyes, memories of years long past crossing his mind.

“I just figured you might enjoy exploring it with me…” Uhtred smiles at Ronan. “Maybe show off to your husband your skills at hunting.”

“Speaking of Björn, how is married life treating you?” Uhtred gives the young man a teasing look. “I’d say, I haven’t seen much of you since the wedding.”

“I often wish I would have postponed the march on Bebbanburg a little longer…” Uhtred reveals a hint of sadness in his eyes. “…to give your father the honeymoon he deserved. Instead of the heartbreak I ultimately gave him in my haste to claim our home. Maybe things would have gone differently.” The Dane glances down at his chest remembering the arrow that almost took his life. He is thankful the wound has finally healed and now he can rebuild the strength he has lost from the injury.

Seeing some deer tracks up ahead in the forest, Uhtred slows his horse to jump down and examine them. “They look fresh…” he comments as his crouches down to touch the print in the wet dirt. Looking around the trail, he spots some deer droppings, flies buzzing around the fresh pile. “Look…” he points it out to Ronan. “…there should be a deer close by.”

@ronanofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

“Thank God,” Ronan says, returning Uhtred’s laugh.

“Yes, of course Lord. I’m grateful you asked me. That you are finally coming out again, and it’s me you chose to do it with,” the prince smiles.

“… I must admit Lord, I rarely part from him, and I enjoy the times I share with his children. We are very happy.” Ronan says, a little blush rising to his cheeks at the thought of it all.

“I never thanked you for what you did for us. How you contributed in makin’ it special. Thank you, Uhtred…”

The prince remembers like it was yesterday how absolutely devastated his father was when Uhtred was injured. Many people were, constant prayers being heeded for the Lord’s recovery, and Ronan even worried that perhaps their siege had been unsuccessful after all. The prince knows now how crushing it would feel to come close to losing the love of his life. He doesn’t even want to imagine it.

Crinkling his nose at Uhtred’s musings at the deer tracks, he steers his horse to follow him. He wasn’t quite keen on the act itself, but he always felt accomplished when it was done.

“Whatever you say, Lord,” Ronan snickers.

As they go further into the forest, the prince whispers to Uhtred, pointing up ahead as he slowly and carefully dismounts his horse.

“There,” he says softly, pointing to a fleet of deer grazing further ahead.

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred chuckles at Ronan’s comment of rarely parting from his love. “I know the feeling. Finan and I are rarely far from one another. Even when we don’t share nights together our chambers are right next to each other. I can still feel his presence nearby.” The Dane smiles wistfully. In the decade he and Finan have been together they have always remained close, even before they professed their love for one another.

“You’re welcome…” Uhtred grins remembering how he decorated their home for their special night. “It was my contribution to your special day. It warms my heart to hear that you enjoyed it.”

Leading Tintreg behind him, Uhtred follows the tracks quietly, keeping his eyes out for their prey. When Ronan points the small fleet of deer ahead of them, the Dane grins thankful that they won’t go home empty handed. He motions to Ronan to dismount, confident that his horse will stay with Tintreg as they stealthily approach the deer. Grabbing his bow and arrows, Uhtred motions with a finger to his mouth that they should be silent so as not to spook the herd away.

When they find a good spot nearby, they crouch down in the brush hiding their presence as they watch the deer for a moment. There is a nice large stag watching over the three or four doe munching on the grass.

“I’ll take a shot at him, if you want to try to get one of the doe.” Uhtred whispers quietly to the young prince, the excitement of the hunt flaring out in his chest. That stag will bring a lot of meat to the fortress, and will help put his husband’s mind at ease for the upcoming winter.

@ronanofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

“Mhm…” the prince hums, quietly crouching down next to Uhtred as he readies his bow and draws an arrow. He slowly begins his aim, seconds away from loosening his shot before something in the distance spooks their game, and the deer start running.

“Shit…” Ronan rasps out, looking at Uhtred. When he hears something in the distance, likely what scared the deer away, he furrows his brows and holds Uhtred’s eye contact as they listen.

@askuhtredragnarson

[alfredofwessex69]

“Greetings, Lord.” A voice beckons from the forest, the sound of crunching leaves coming into awareness as Steapa’s band of men slowly surround the Dane and Finan’s eldest. The Kingsguard smiles at Uhtred’s immediate shock, giving him a mocking nod before his eyes drift to Ronan.

“You keep the most beautiful company,” Steapa says, a chuckle under his breath. “Perhaps even dangerous… but this time, I came prepared.”

Men of Wessex draw their swords as they come closer, creating a shield of men with no means of an exit as they surround the Dane and the Prince. Steapa draws his sword, joining them in the middle.

“My King wishes to speak with you, and the answer that falls from your lips will be yes. Won’t it, Uhtred?”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

As soon as he hears the Kingsguard’s voice, Uhtred’s hand immediately goes behind him to rest on the hilt of his sword. When the King’s men surround him and Ronan, the pit in his stomach grows. There are too many of them to fight off, without risking the life of his husband’s son. Finan would never forgive him if Ronan was hurt as a result of his foolishness. Not to mention, the Northman might just kill him himself if his prince is harmed.

He subtly motions for Ronan to get behind him, not liking the way Steapa is looking at him.

Uhtred’s chin comes up as a hard edge comes to his jaw at Steapa’s demand. He wants to tell the warrior to go to Hel, that he wants nothing to do with his King, but to do that would put the prince’s life in danger.

“You will let him go, if I agree to talk to your King.” It’s not a question, it’s a statement, the hard edge to Uhtred’s voice unmistakable. 

“If any harm comes to him, I will quarter you myself…” the Dane threatens as he glares into Steapa’s eyes.

@ronanofulaid @alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

“I don’t think you have anything to bargain with, Uhtred…” Steapa says with a chuckle, taking a look around at his men.

“You will meet our demands this time. No bargains… no agreements. Nothing…

Take hold of him.” He commands the men, knowing Uhtred won’t make any haste to dispatch them. He’d be a fool to with their numbers.

With the seething look in Uhtred’s eyes, Steapa appeals to the gentler of the two, knowing that he’s finally got both of them right where he wants them.

“How’s this…” Steapa says then, looking at Ronan as he sheaths his sword and draws his dagger.

“You come with me, or I slit his throat, and your Lord dies right here.”

@askuhtredragnarson

[ronanofulaid]

Squeezing Uhtred’s arm with his hand, the shudder that runs through Ronan’s body can practically be felt by the Dane as his breath hitches.

“No! No… I’ll do it,” Ronan speaks up shakily. This was what he felt the whole time out in the forest, an unsettled grief in the pit of his stomach, and he’d been ignoring it the whole time. As Steapa brings his dagger up to point at Ronan’s throat, the prince doesn’t hesitate to disarm his sword belt and drop his own weapons to the ground at Steapa’s command.

He’s too valuable. They won’t hurt him…

I’m at your command, Lord. I will not betray you…

I will not.

Nodding at Uhtred, Ronan hopes that somehow, some way the Dane can hear his thoughts.

“I’ll come with you.” Ronan agrees, a steady decision in his voice.

I’ll be fine.

Ronan scoffs as Steapa grabs him harshly by the arm, leading him away as the guardsmen take Uhtred in another direction.

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred tries to shirk out of the men’s hold, but it is futile, there are just too many of them. He seethes at Steapa, his words tasting bitter in his mouth. His heart is pounding in his chest as the Kingsguard points his dagger at Ronan, the pit in his stomach growing as he watches the prince drop his weapons on the ground.

“Ronan…” Uhtred softly whispers shaking his head no at the young man. A look of apology in the Dane’s eyes. This is all his fault. He should have known better than to venture out into the forest, and taking Ronan with him thus putting his life in danger as well.

He was just tired of feeling like a prisoner in his own home…

“Finan will kill you for this…his husband will kill you for laying hands on him.” Uhtred nods at Ronan, a scowl on his face directed to Steapa.

“Have you heard of a blood eagle? That is what you will be facing if the Northman gets his hands on you.” Uhtred spits on the ground as he glares at his former friend. “You will pray for death before he is done with you.”

As the guardsmen pull him away, Uhtred drags his feet trying to wrestle out of their hold. If anything the tracks left behind will tell a story of what happened. A guard lands a punch to Uhtred’s gut for his efforts of delaying them. As they force Uhtred towards a path in the forest he spots a wagon up ahead. He tries again in vain to pull out of their hold, his fighting spirit not wanting to give up. They dispose him of his weapons, tossing his sword and seax on the ground, before slapping chains on his wrists in an effort to subdue the warrior. They force him into the wagon before taking off to an unknown destination.

Gods, Finan…find Ronan, save your son…

Uhtred looks up to the sky beseeching his Gods.

@ronanofulaid @alfredofwessex69

[ronanofulaid]

As the Wessex guardsmen drag Uhtred away to a caged wagon, Steapa pulls Ronan along in the opposite direction. The prince doesn’t fight it — he thinks perhaps if he did, it would only make things worse.

Pushing the prince against a tree, Steapa forces his hands in front of him, immediately tying them with rope into harsh knots. Ronan winces at the tightness of them as Steapa pulls him along by an extension of the rope. They walk for a great while, until a desolate cabin comes into view. The prince’s eye widen in a feeling of Deja vu when he realizes that this was once a dream that kept him tossing and turning a few nights before him and Björn’s wedding. Gods, if only he could sharpen his ability. Learn to control it, and wield it… to prevent such horrors from happening.

Björn, hear me. I’m here. I’m right here. Not far…

The prince uses his thoughts like a mantra, repeating the words in his head over and over again. All he can do is try, and hope that somehow it gets through. The Gods gave him his sight for a reason, and surely he could get through to his husband, even with just his mind.

Björn! Hear me!

The prince huffs as Steapa roughly pulls him into the cabin, his heart racing at whatever may happen next.

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

As the wagon rolls down the dirt path, Uhtred glares out of the bars of the metal cage at the men surrounding him. Hanging his head he tries to calm the racing of his heart as memories of the last time he was in a metal cage on a wagon flash before his eyes.

They are taking me to Alfred…not to the Trader. 

Not that it’s any better.

Uhtred repeats it to himself over and over again. He tries to pull at the metal cuffs around his wrists but they won’t budge, and it just furthers his frustration.

How could I be so stupid…How could I endanger my husband’s son…

A growl erupts from Uhtred’s chest as he elbows the bars of the cage, his fury growing. The sun dips below the horizon as darkness starts to fall. It’s been hours of travel, his legs already feeling cramped in the narrow cage. He still has no idea where the men are taking him, as they turn off the main trail onto an even narrower one. One that could be missed easily if you didn’t know what you are looking for. He can smell rain in the air as dark clouds block out the stars starting to shine.

The rain will wash away their tracks…

Uhtred feels disheartened the further away from home he gets, unsure if his love will be able to find him. Unsure of what Alfred’s true intentions are towards him. Uhtred scowls at the men surrounding the wagon imagining how he is going to dispatch each and every one of them.

Suddenly the wagon lurches to a stop, and Uhtred tries to take in his surroundings the best that he can in the darkness. It appears to be a cottage, he can see candlelight flickering in a window. One of the guardsmen throws open the door to the cage before grabbing the chains that bind Uhtred’s wrists. He yanks the Dane out, laughing as Uhtred falls to the ground. Uhtred stands up glaring at the guardsman before head butting him. Another man comes up behind Uhtred laying a punch against his back, knocking the breath from the warrior.

“Come…” the guard behind Uhtred orders, obviously speaking to the other men. “He wants him chained up inside, so that he can’t escape…”

Dragging Uhtred inside the sparsely furnished cottage they bring him to a spot between two posts where chains are dangling down. The men strip Uhtred of his armor and his tunic before chaining him to the posts, his arms outstretched.

“Our King, will be with you shortly…” The men laugh before they take their leave of the Dane.

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

As the guardsmen leave, a few long minutes pass before a familiar silhouette enters the room.

“I won’t hurt you. But you’ve made this impossible, Uhtred…” Alfred says solemnly as he approaches. His eyes drift to Uhtred’s torso momentarily, and the King feels his cheeks turn red hot.

“I’ve made mistakes. I’ve done terrible, horrible things to you, and I don’t deserve your forgiveness…

But we are bonded, you and I,” Alfred says, looking into Uhtred’s eyes. His pride finally shatters, speaking to the Dane with pleading eyes and an open heart.

“I regret that it’s come to this, but I had to speak to you again. We have wronged each other… numbers of times. But I constantly come to the realization, that I am lost without you.”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred lets out a mirthless laugh as he glances down at the chains that bind him. “You’re right…you don’t deserve my forgiveness…

…and we are not bonded. I was only ever your hound. The one you sent to fight your battles. To fight for your dreams, while you did nothing but crush mine.” The Dane seethes as he glares into Alfred’s eyes.

“Taking my family from me, my wife…” Uhtred shakes his head. “Why? Were you hoping I’d seek comfort in your arms? That I would cling to you in my darkest hour…” the warrior huffs out a breath, rage barely concealed under the surface.

He knows he should offer the King placating words, tell him what he wants to hear to get him to let down his guard, but he can’t bring himself to do it. He cannot lie to himself in order to please his captor.

“I will fall to my knees for no man, no king and no Christian God…never again.”

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

“I don’t need you to bend the knee to me,” Alfred says, shaking his head. “I-I don’t even need your sword…”

Stepping closer, Alfred looks into the Dane’s eyes intently.

“Have you not accomplished your dreams? Have you not resumed your birthright… achieved all you set out to accomplish?

Uhtred, I am sorry. I was young, and foolish, and reckless… selfish. Yes, I did think that at one time. I did.” Alfred admits.

“Tell me. Tell me how I can make this right between us. I will do anything,” the King says, in a tone that’s so rare to him.

“I don’t expect you to bow. I don’t expect anything but for you to see that I…” Alfred sighs.

“I care deeply for you. I always have. It’s the reason I sent your brother for you when you were at sea. We are bonded. Even if it’s in a way that you despise.”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

“Yes, I have accomplished my dreams of reclaiming my birthright, with no help from you…not even as a thanks for all my years of service for you.” Uhtred sneers at the King. “It almost cost me my life…” the Dane glances at the scar near his collarbone. “…but now my family has a home that no one can take from us.” Uhtred can’t help that jab at the King, remembering how he stripped him of his lands and titles in Coccham.

“There is only one man whom I am bonded to. One man that holds my heart forever….and you endeavored to take him from me as well. Kidnapping his wife to ransom him to his brother in the hopes that he would be killed.

In the hopes that my heart would be freed…” Uhtred spits on the ground in disgust.

“If you care so deeply for me, then why do you endeavor to take everything I hold dear away from me? Is it because you are jealous of the love I had for Gisela? The love I have for Finan?

You can’t stand the fact that he is the one I lay with. The one I share my heart and my bed with…” Uhtred cocks an eyebrow at Alfred.

“Tell me why you can’t let me go. Tell me what it is you really want from me.”

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

Alfred glares at him, his stoic expression only punctuated by a subtle flare in his nostrils, a slight mistiness in his eyes.

“I want what Finan has. I always have. Does that please you?” The King says, his voice slightly raised.

“Does it please you to see me weak with this?” Alfred seethes.

“I bear my heart fruitlessly. Because you refuse to grow. To change,” Alfred says, shaking his head. It’s then that Steapa enters the room. When he sees the King visibly upset, he takes a hand to his shoulder, and the King effectively storms out of the room to cool off.

“You really are set in your ways, aren’t you Lord?” Steapa says. “Uhtred of Bebbanburg, never to bow to any man, any God… even if it would be easier.”

Taking a few steps closer, Steapa grabs a steel rod, playing with it in his hands like a threat.

“The prince is so beguiling…” Steapa says to Uhtred with a smirk.

“I have to wonder… is he a whore just like his father? Will he beg for it? Or will he beg me to stop?”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

“Does that please me?” The Dane shakes his head. “That a man who has sought, time after time, to destroy my life, to take away all that I hold dear, does it out of some twisted sense of love. 

If that’s even what you can call it. Sounds more like lust in my ears.” Uhtred replies in a mocking tone. “You will never have this…” the warrior glances down his chest in show. “Only one man will have that pleasure…my husband.”

Uhtred huffs out a breath. “I refuse to grow? To change? Yet I’m the one who has been stolen from my home…being held in chains. All I beg of you is distance…to live my life in peace.”

As Steapa enters the room, Uhtred’s eyes narrow as a sneer comes to his face. “You know me…I never take the easy way out. I speak my truth, whether he wants to hear it or not.

…and what, now the King’s dog is here to do his bidding?” Uhtred smirks watching as Steapa plays with a steel rod. If the Kingsguard thinks Uhtred will show him fear with his thinly veiled threat, then he truly doesn’t know the Dane.

At Steapa’s next words, a red hot rage comes over Uhtred as the Dane tries to take a step forward. He growls in frustration as the chains limit his movements. He tries to kick the Kingsguard but narrowly misses him as Steapa steps just out of reach.

“You lay one hand on him, and I will personally cut off your cock, and stuff it into your mouth.” Uhtred growls out, barely hiding the shudder of rage that courses through him. They can do whatever they want to him, but if they hurt Ronan, neither the King or his guardsman will make it out of this alive.

Visions of a similar event arises in Uhtred’s mind…when Aelfric took Finan, and he instantly feels sick to his stomach.

“Let him go!” Uhtred growls out between clenched teeth.

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

Steapa shakes his head. “Not that easily.”

Stepping a little closer, Steapa looks into Uhtred’s eyes.

“All of this can be resolved. All of it… but you refuse to submit. You refuse to address him with respect, and acknowledge your bond…

Unfortunately for you, Lord, the King will have you willingly, or as a prisoner. He won’t live his last years without you. He was to let you reside here, in Bebbanburg… but not without you sworn to him once more. So we are in route to Wessex at dawn. Don’t worry… the Prince will be joining us as well. He’ll just be with me.” Steapa chuckles.

“I can’t wait for him to see our lands.”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

“I will never submit to him…” Uhtred growls out. “I will never acknowledge a bond, because there is no bond. The only bond I have is the one I share with my husband.”

“I will never be what he wants me to be…he will never have what Finan has.” Uhtred roars as he glares daggers at Steapa. “I will never let him touch me…”

“I have already given him too much of my life. Too much for someone who valued me so little. I will not swear myself to him again. He is not my King.”

“Ronan belongs here. In Bebbanburg. With his husband.” Uhtred seethes his head shaking as a mirthless smile comes to his face. “None of this is going to bode well for either of you, when Björn Ironside finds you. Not to mention, the Northman’s father.”

A cocky look comes to Uhtred’s eyes, refusing to be intimidated by the King and his guard. “Dawn might be too late for you…You’re crazy if you think our men aren’t already on your trail. They will find him…”

Please, Finan…find your son. Save him.

I’m so sorry this happened…

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

“He was married, hm?” Steapa asks, cocking his head. A smirk comes across his face as Uhtred glares at him.

“Suit yourself, Lord. A few of my men here might be able to change your mind…”

Steapa leaves the room then, a few of Alfred’s men joining in his place. Some to keep watch, and others to coerce him with force.

[askuhtredragnarson]

“He was…to a man worthy of him. A Northman, who will happily end your life for taking him from him.” Uhtred glares at Steapa. He only wishes he could be there to bear witness to the Northman’s wrath against the Kingsguard.

“They can try, but my resolve will not waver.” Uhtred glares at the other men coming into the cottage. Their hair wet from the rain that has just started falling outside.

“I will not submit to him…” Uhtred yells at Steapa’s retreating back. Before turning his attention to the other guardsmen. A cocky smile coming to his face despite the rage drumming under his skin. He will not show weakness to these cowards. Even as the first man lays a punch to his stomach, Uhtred hides his pain behind a laugh.

“Is that all you’ve got?” The Dane taunts the men. They could knock him senseless, and he still won’t give into their demands. He belongs to one man, and one man only. Finan.

The King will never get that which he desire. Uhtred will never be a willing participant.

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

“Enough!!” Alfred shouts as he reenters the room. He shews the guardsmen away, taking a look at the bloodied lip Uhtred sustained. Thankfully, they left his face otherwise unmarred.

“Take him to my chamber. Leave his wrists and ankles bound,” Alfred orders them.

The Saxons quickly work to take the Dane’s ankles up in chains, letting each of his wrists loose before securing them again with irons in front of him. They drag Uhtred along with them until they reach a room, a chamber set up for the King as regally as possible. The put Uhtred into a chair forcefully, taking more chains to secure his wrists to the armrests.

“Leave us,” Alfred commands. He picks up a vial from the table, taking some of the liquid onto his finger and then onto Uhtred’s bottom lip at the Dane’s absolute revolt.

“Relax. Give in to it.” Alfred says, running his hand up Uhtred’s arm. The tonic he gave up will make his body feel limp, his mind a bit more pliable.

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred raises his hanging head at Alfred’s shout. His tongue darting out to the cut on his lip tasting the blood. Alfred’s men have done a number on him, but thankfully nothing is broken. He shakes his head, a cocky look in his eyes as his breaths come out in pants. He imagines bruises are flaring out on his chest and stomach from the blows, but he still won’t submit.

The Saxons remove his boots and quickly fashion chains on the Dane’s ankles. The weight of them reminding him of other chains from a time long ago.

This will not break me…

Uhtred focuses his mind on his love, on Finan. Seeing the Irishman’s face in his thoughts strengthens his resolve. Gives purpose to the pain flaring out in his chest. His bond with Finan helped him survive the Trader, it will help him survive this.

As the men lower his arms replacing the chains on his wrists, Uhtred feels the blood rushing down to his hands as a tingling feeling takes over. The numbness he was starting to feel from their raised position, now uncomfortable as they start to wake. Uhtred nearly stumbles as the men drag him into another room, a chambers fit for a King, a stark difference to the rest of the cottage. He swallows back a knot in his throat at the large bed looming in the center of the room, thankful when the men take him to a chair instead. But not without a struggle. Ignoring the pain in his torso, Uhtred tries to pull out of their hold, but just like in the forest, there are too many of them.

Once he’s been properly secured, the men leave at their King’s behest and Uhtred’s attention shifts to Alfred. He feels his stomach drop at the vial in Alfred’s hands, recalling again the tonic his love was given at the hands of his uncle. Uhtred tries to turn his face away, but it doesn’t stop the King from running his finger across his bottom lip. He tries to spit out whatever the concoction is, but he fears it has already started absorbing into his blood stream.

“What do you hope to gain by this?” Uhtred challenges. “I will not give into it.” Goosebumps prickle at the King’s touch across his arm as a shiver runs down his spine.

“I will not betray my husband…” Uhtred seethes as he glares at the King.

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

“I don’t think that’s true,” Alfred says softly, running his hands across Uhtred’s shoulders.

“I think… you’ve thought about it. Especially in the marshes. When you were in Coccham. All those times we shared in Wessex when your children were young…” he says. He kneels before the Dane, bringing his fingers to the laces of his breeches and toying with them, not yet unlacing. He comes closer to Uhtred, placing a soft kiss on his lips, loving the soft suppleness of them.

“Is that what I’ve been missing?” He asks, whispering against his lips.

“Perhaps I should have them unchain you. I have no doubt you would behave now.”

Standing from his knelt position, the King takes Uhtred’s chin.

“Whatever you had with the Irishman… is over.”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred bristles at the King’s hands on his shoulders. “Then you are delusional…” the Dane mutters out.

The King’s reminiscing about a time long ago stirs no feelings within the Dane. At least not the feeling he expects. Sure they spent time together, and at one time him might have considered Alfred a friend, but never nothing more than that. Not when his heart already belonged to another.

When the King’s hands rest at the laces of his breeches, Uhtred tries to shift away, but his legs and arms are starting to feel heavy, and he can barely move them. He growls in frustration, feeling a haziness in his head like his thoughts are becoming fuzzy. He tries to turn his head away from Alfred’s kiss, but his movements are becoming slow. It irks him that he can wipe the moisture from the kiss from his lips.

“It was never yours to miss…” Uhtred utters out, his eyes glaring even though it feels like they are playing tricks on him. “My cock will not rise for you…I have no desire in my body to be touched by you.”

“It’s not over…he is my husband. The love of my life.” Uhtred growls defiantly. He closes his eyes as the room starts spinning. He can feel his heart pounding in his chest as the tonic pulls him further under it’s spell.

“I will not give you what you want…” It becomes a mantra in Uhtred’s head as he tries desperately to fight the effect of the tonic.

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

“Oh, you will, my dear. I don’t care if it takes days… months, years. You will not be returning to Bebbanburg, and the more you fight it, the more exhausted you’ll be.”

Leaving and returning with some men, Alfred orders them to unchain Uhtred from the chair, and carry him to the bed.

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Following the route the best he can, Finan leads his guardsmen through the dark, Ragnar at his side on his horse. It’s been hours by now, and Finan’s mind is reeling. The love of his life, and his baby. Alfred had single handedly hurt every person he truly loved now, and he was finished with it. He should have killed the King when Revna was taken, and now… he regrets not doing it with his entire soul.

Along the way, the Irishman gives coin generously to villagers who can say whether or not they had witnessed something, and as they come in contact with watchmen from Wessex, they threaten them with their lives to get them to talk. Between Finan and Ragnar, their ruthlessness is palpable and quite effective throughout the travel, but the hours long journey starts to make the Irishman worry.

“What happens if I kill him?” He drawls to Ragnar lowly. When the Viking shrugs and gives him a teasing smirk, Finan smiles.

It’s settled in his mind. He will kill every last one of them, if needed. He prays that Revna and Bjorn had some luck with their own search. Finan can’t handle even the thought of them not finding his son, nor does he let his mind waiver to thoughts of his husband being long gone. Never.

One of Revna’s ravens had stopped in on them throughout the night, seemingly leading them in the right direction or correcting forks in the road. He disappeared for a while, but when he returns, the raven’s caws lead Finan to a turn of direction that leads them all to the very edge of a Saxon settlement and camp. Thankfully… it’s nighttime, so they could attack most of them with the element of surprise. He looks at Ragnar with furrowed brows, perhaps in a question of guidance before he does something crazy like Bjorn stated earlier.

@askuhtredragnarson @lagertha-lothbrok

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred makes a feeble attempt to shake his head no. “I’m not going anywhere with you…my husband will find me. You should pray to your God for a swift death…”

He can feel himself getting weaker as his limbs feel like dead weight. Uhtred tries to focus on Finan, to give him strength. When he opens his eyes, for a moment he sees the Irishman before him. He feels hope flare out in his chest, but the image is blurry at the edges and quickly fades being replaced by Alfred standing before him.

As the men unchain him to be moved to the bed, he can barely feel it. Only the touch on his skin while everything else feels numb. Uhtred lets out a groan as they lift him from the chair. He wants to fight, as he grits his teeth, but his body won’t cooperate. He is at their mercy as they roughly manhandle him onto the furs.

“I will not give you what you want….” Uhtred repeats, barely above a whisper.

@alfredofwessex69

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar sits on his horse, running his hand through his beard as they look upon the settlement and camp. He can see guards milling about, while he assumes the rest have retired for the night. The pitch black of the sky offers them a good cover, and he’s sure they could kill most of them before an alarm is even raised, but once it is time is of the essence. Glancing back, the Northman smiles at the large number of men who have joined them in their search.

“…if an alarm sounds, will they kill your Lord?” Ragnar asks the Irishman as he glances over at him.

“We need to find where he is held, before we rush in blindly. Our force can easily decimated them…but it will be for naught if they kill Uhtred.” he comments as more men join their ranks, having heard of the Lord’s capture. He gives a nod to Lagertha sitting not far behind them on her white horse.

The raven flys overhead towards a cottage sitting off in the distance. Ragnar taps Finan’s shoulder before pointing at the majestic bird landing in the thatch of the cottage. 

“There…” Ragnar nods towards the raven. “Perhaps we should take a closer look?” He asks as he looks into Finan’s eyes.

Ragnar motions Lagertha forward, and when she sides her horse between the two men, Ragnar gives her a little smirk. He can already feel the drum of battle in his blood as an almost giddy feeling comes over him. He shakes it off as a serious look comes over his face.

“The Irishman and I are going to sneak over there and investigate the cottage…” he motions with his head. “You stand at the ready to lead our men to battle…wipe all of them out…”

“Once we have Lord Uhtred secured…I’m sure the raven will let you know when it’s time.” Ragnar gives the Shieldmaiden a playful smile. 

“In the meantime, have the men surround the settlement…”

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

“They won’t kill him,” Finan says in a stern brogue, his dark eyes drifting over the settlement.

He’s too precious…

The Irishman takes a shuddering breath. Thank the Gods Ragnar is with him, someone just as experienced or more so to lead alongside him while his heart dances on the edge. A simmering rage boils in his blood, sharpened by a powerful fear in his heart for the man he loves more than anything in the world.

Finan’s eyes follow Ragnar’s as the raven lands upon the thatch of the cottage, and instantly his heart says yes. For most of his life, he never paid any heed to such signs— but at his mother’s pagan ways, and his marriages to both a Shieldmaiden and a Dane, he trusted it more than any holy relic with meager results.

“Don’t hesitate,” Finan adds to Ragnar’s words to Lagertha, before dismounting his horse. He waits for the Northman to do the same, before drawing his dagger.

“Let’s move.”

Moving by stealth in the darkness, the Irishman leads as the two of them sneak around the forest’s edge, coming closer to the cottage in the distance.

“… how are we gonna get in? A window? Bust down the door?” Finan says, almost in jest, but also in a serious question.

@lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Skirting the forest around the cottage, Ragnar follows the Irishman, ever watchful for a guard or man that might notice their presence. He would think the King of Wessex would have scouts posted everywhere watching for their arrival, but maybe his foolish to believe he will get away with his plans. The rain has stopped and the clouds above are starting to break revealing the stars.

The two men hide behind a couple large boulders at they watch the cottage for any movement. There are men posted out front and a couple walking the perimeter. Who knows how many are inside.

“I think before we go busting down any doors, we might want to deal with them first.” Ragnar smirks as he motions to the men guarding the cottage.

“Quietly…” he adds.

“We don’t know how many are inside…perhaps we find a way to lure them out?” Ragnar suggests as he cocks an inquisitive eye at Finan.

“I know you want to get to him as quickly as possible…” Ragnar tries to calm the Irishman. “…but we should still be cautious. They may not kill him, but it might not stop them from hurting him.”

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Finan nods, looking into Ragnar’s eyes.

“Yer right. Don’t fret… I’m the King of distractions. I learned from the best.”

I’m comin’ for you, babe…

“Stay here a second,” the Irishman tells Ragnar. The Northman likely wouldn’t agree with his hasty decision, but just like the day he stalked into the camp alone to save Revna, Finan walks alone and risks it by himself, without putting anyone else’s life at stake.

Finan stays low as he strides through the shadows, missing guardsmen by hiding behind walls with agility almost forgotten yet easily taken back up. He can see Ragnar’s bewildered frustration even from afar, but he doesn’t let it distract him. He has a memory in mind, one not so long ago, and it drives him.

Grabbing a torch from one of the cottage walls, the Irishman throws it, grinning when it lands on its target, another cottage’s thatch roof yards away. As it starts to smolder, he grabs another, following it with the same motion. He quickly draws his dagger and dispatches two men, as stealthily as he can with his adrenaline driving him.

Fuck. Fuck. Fuck!

Finan sprints back to Ragnar, his heart thudding in his chest as he returns to the Northman’s side with ragged breaths. Damn, it was risky. But it could be enough. His Dane was worth the risk.

@lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

“So much for quietly…” Ragnar utters under his breath as he watches the Irishman light a cottage on fire, a bewildered expression on his face. He bites back a chuckle, shaking his head at the madness before him. Honestly it’s something he would have done too, if he would have thought of it.

Seeing Finan take out the guards walking the perimeter, Ragnar grins. That just leaves the two out front and however many are inside.

When Finan returns to him with ragged breaths, Ragnar can’t help but tease him. “…couldn’t just knock on the door and see who answers? Had to burn a cottage…” The Northman playfully arches his eyebrow. He may have just found someone who matches his level of crazy, he grudgingly admits to himself.

The men watch as the flames lick at the roof of the nearby cottage, smoke pluming up into the sky. Soon the sounds of men shouting fire can be heard through the sleepy settlement. Men rushing with buckets of water to try to put out the flames. 

The two guards stationed out front of the cottage don’t move, and neither does whomever may be inside. That confirms in Ragnar’s mind that the King is indeed inside that cottage, and the guards have been ordered to keep him protected.

“Well….next plan.” Ragnar smirks at Finan. “You take the one on the left and I take the one on the right. Then maybe we can get a view inside the cottage through the window to see what else we might be up against.” 

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

Walking towards the village with Hati nipping at his heels, Uhtred grins down at his pup. Hati has grown by leaps and bounds since his rescue in the forest, and now he’s like a shadow to Uhtred following the Dane everywhere he goes. The day is unseasonably warm, the warm before the storm. There are not many good hunting days left as winter quickly approaches.

Approaching Björn and Ronan’s cottage, Uhtred opens the metal gate before stepping into the yard. He smiles at the home the young couple have made for one another, remembering fondly when he surprised them with a romantic gesture. However, today he has other plans. He has not had very many opportunities to spend time with Finan’s oldest. To bond with his husband’s son, and he would very much like to rectify that. Ronan is important to Finan and thus important to him as well. What better way to bond with the young man, then to take him hunting to build up their winter stores.

Rapping on the door of the cottage, Uhtred waits for the prince to answer, hopeful that the young man will be receptive to spending some time with him.

@askuhtredragnarson

Holding his baby kitten in his arm, the prince pads to the door. Typically he takes a look out the window to see who it is, but his intuition and foresight grows stronger as he nurses it over time. He can’t tell who it is, but it’s someone in the family. He can feel it.

Swinging the door of their cottage open, Ronan smiles.

“Lord Uhtred…” he greets him, smiling down at his pup. It wasn’t completely rare to see Uhtred in the village, but his presence radiated like no other’s in this part could. He’s a leader that everyone respects and adores.

“… ehm, to what do I owe the pleasure?”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred gives Ronan a sheepish smile, as Hati chews on a strap of leather on his boots. “I was curious if you’d like to go hunting with me. It’s a beautiful day and I was hoping we could find a deer or some boar to add to our winter supplies. It won’t be long before it’s too cold and the winter storms make hunting difficult.”

Offering the prince a warm smile, Uhtred tries to shake Hati off his boot letting out a chuckle as the pup playfully growls.

“You and I haven’t had many chances to spend time together. To get to know one another, and I would like to change that. I have had a chance to bond with little Tora, and I would like the chance to do the same with you. I figured you might prefer hunting than sparring…” Uhtred tilts his head as he raises an eyebrow.

“Your father means the world to me, and you mean the world to him. That make you important to me as well.” Uhtred softens his eyes at the young Irishman.

“Will your husband let me steal you away for a bit?” The Dane smirks.

@ronanofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

Ronan raises his brows and tilts his head at Uhtred’s words, surprised at such an offer. Nevertheless, it sounds like an amazing idea, and so considerate of him to reach out to him like this. The prince smiles warmly, giving the Dane a nod.

“I would love to! … please, come on in!” the prince rings out, stepping aside and holding the door open for him.

“Bear… Lord Uhtred is here,” Ronan says, walking to the kitchen where Björn sits. He hands Mara to him, grinning when the Northman cradles the little kitten against his chest. “He’s invited me on a hunt,” the prince grins, feeling a little special that Uhtred sought him out.

“Make yerself at home, Lord. I’ll just put on some warmer clothes and I’ll be ready in no time…

We have food and drink, please help yerself to it…”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Stepping into the cottage, Uhtred takes in the cozy home as a warm smile comes to his face. Seeing Björn sitting in the kitchen, Uhtred follows Ronan, giving the Northman a nod of greeting.

“I hope you don’t mind if I borrow your husband for a little while.” Uhtred asks the Northman.

Björn looks up at Uhtred as he plops a piece of meat into his mouth. There is a wariness in his eyes that the Dane notices, and he’s not sure if it’s from their past grievances or maybe his protectiveness for the prince. Uhtred can’t say he blames him, he himself struggles to let Finan out of his sight.

“Where are you planning on going hunting?” Björn asks looking up at the Dane.

“The forest just beyond the village…” Uhtred answers. “I used to go hunting there when I was a youth. I remember it being heavy with deer tracks, and sometimes you can come across a wild boar in those woods.”

Björn nods his head having been through that forest himself recently in his own efforts to provide meat for his family. “The game has been plentiful…” the warrior muses.

“We should be back well before dusk…It’s my hope we can both bring home a plump deer. Ease my own husband’s mind about having enough stores to get us through the winter…” Uhtred chuckles remembering Finan’s concerns about their preparedness for the colder months.

“I would have taken Finan with me, but I believe he was planning on going foraging in the forest with Revna. Something about them needing to stock up on ginger and peppermint…” The Dane smiles as he shakes his head. 

“I figure this gives me a chance to bond with my step son…”

@ronanofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

While Uhtred speaks to his husband, the prince dons his cloak and a few leathers, more for warmth than for protection — it’s uncharacteristically warm outside, but Ronan knows he’ll still be freezing. He grabs his set of arrows and a bow, donning his sword belt. For a second he thinks of taking the sword that Ragnar gave him — but it’s much too special. That one needs to be blooded on an important occasion.

The prince snickers to himself when he hears Uhtred tell Björn his hopes of him not minding if they go.

Of course he minds… but he’s also sweet. And it gives Björn time to check up on his own preparations, see the children, check on Lagertha…

Stepping into the kitchen, Ronan hands Uhtred a water skin he filled for him.

“Won’t be too long, eh?” Ronan asks Uhtred, before kneeling at his husband’s side. He gives him a deep kiss, before bringing the kiss to his cheek and whispering in his ear.

“I love you. Don’t miss me too much,” he whispers, sharing a beaming smile and a twinkle in his eyes with Björn.

“I’m ready when you are, Lord.”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

“Easier said than done…you know I miss you every moment we are parted.” The Northman whispers back to Ronan as he nuzzles into his husband. “I love you, my little selkie.”

Uhtred gives the lovers a warm smile feeling the love between them. It reminds him so much of the love he shares with Finan. He is happy for both of them having found one another.

“I’ll have him back before dusk…” The Dane tries to reassure the Northman. “…perhaps earlier if we are successful.” He gives the prince a little wink.

“I am ready.” Uhtred smiles at Ronan. “We’ll go to the fortress and gather our horses, then head off. We’ll need them to carry back our kills. The stable boys should already be preparing them.”

Uhtred gives Björn a final nod before following Ronan out of the cottage, Hati following obediently beside him. “You’re staying at the fortress…” Uhtred warns his pup as he points a stern finger at him. “You’ll probably scare off all the game.” The Dane chuckles as they follow the winding path to the fortress.

When they arrive at the stable, Tintreg is already prancing anxious to go out. With his Serpent’s Breath over his shoulder and Wasp Sting in his belt, Uhtred grabs a spear in case they come across a boar, along with a bow and quiver of arrows. Picking up Hati, the Dane hands the pup to the stable boy to hold him until they are out of the gate. The pup immediately starts whining and trying to wiggle from the boy’s grasp.

“Soon, Hati…I’ll take you hunting with me once you’re a little less…rambunctious.” Uhtred chuckles.

“Ready?” The Dane looks over to Ronan, giving the young prince a smile before he mounts his horse. Once Ronan is settled on his horse, Uhtred leads them to the gate and to the trail leading to the forest.

@ronanofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

“Before dusk, bear!” Ronan rings out as he echoes Uhtred’s words, squeezing Björn’s hand until the distance grows between them.

“Yes, Lord,” Ronan tells Uhtred regarding the horses. He feels a slight tremble in his hands that is so rare to him, perhaps even a feeling in his gut. The prince brushes it off though, knowing that he’s likely just nervous to be alone with Uhtred. He admires him so much, and the Dane was right — they hadn’t really had the chance to spend too much time together alone. Ronan felt comfortable around him, but Uhtred is just such a strong presence.

“He’s cute,” Ronan grins, smiling down at Hati.

“He is growin’ so fast!!”

Taking his bag to his own horse, the prince straps it in and settles it before swiftly mounting up.

“Ready, Lord!” He nods, before kicking his horse into a trot as he follows Uhtred’s lead. They slowly trot past the gates, kicking their horses into a quicker gallop as they leave.

“So… everything is alright. Right?” Ronan asks Uhtred after a few moments, still getting that weird feeling come over him.

“You aren’t takin’ me out to have some sort of conversation with me, are you?”

The prince can’t imagine what that conversation could be. Something about duty, or love, or Bebbanburg… who knows. When Uhtred lets out a billowing laugh, the prince calms, knowing then that he’s likely wrong.

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred glances over at Ronan with a playful smirk. “What? Gods, no…” the Dane laughs. “I figure you get enough of that from your father.” He winks at Ronan, with a light-hearted look.

“I haven’t been outside the fortress much since my injury…and since the attack on the village.” Uhtred admits looking over at Ronan. “I used to roam these hills when I was a child, exploring. I have missed that since my return to Bebbanburg.” A wistfulness comes to his eyes, memories of years long past crossing his mind.

“I just figured you might enjoy exploring it with me…” Uhtred smiles at Ronan. “Maybe show off to your husband your skills at hunting.”

“Speaking of Björn, how is married life treating you?” Uhtred gives the young man a teasing look. “I’d say, I haven’t seen much of you since the wedding.”

“I often wish I would have postponed the march on Bebbanburg a little longer…” Uhtred reveals a hint of sadness in his eyes. “…to give your father the honeymoon he deserved. Instead of the heartbreak I ultimately gave him in my haste to claim our home. Maybe things would have gone differently.” The Dane glances down at his chest remembering the arrow that almost took his life. He is thankful the wound has finally healed and now he can rebuild the strength he has lost from the injury.

Seeing some deer tracks up ahead in the forest, Uhtred slows his horse to jump down and examine them. “They look fresh…” he comments as his crouches down to touch the print in the wet dirt. Looking around the trail, he spots some deer droppings, flies buzzing around the fresh pile. “Look…” he points it out to Ronan. “…there should be a deer close by.”

@ronanofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

“Thank God,” Ronan says, returning Uhtred’s laugh.

“Yes, of course Lord. I’m grateful you asked me. That you are finally coming out again, and it’s me you chose to do it with,” the prince smiles.

“… I must admit Lord, I rarely part from him, and I enjoy the times I share with his children. We are very happy.” Ronan says, a little blush rising to his cheeks at the thought of it all.

“I never thanked you for what you did for us. How you contributed in makin’ it special. Thank you, Uhtred…”

The prince remembers like it was yesterday how absolutely devastated his father was when Uhtred was injured. Many people were, constant prayers being heeded for the Lord’s recovery, and Ronan even worried that perhaps their siege had been unsuccessful after all. The prince knows now how crushing it would feel to come close to losing the love of his life. He doesn’t even want to imagine it.

Crinkling his nose at Uhtred’s musings at the deer tracks, he steers his horse to follow him. He wasn’t quite keen on the act itself, but he always felt accomplished when it was done.

“Whatever you say, Lord,” Ronan snickers.

As they go further into the forest, the prince whispers to Uhtred, pointing up ahead as he slowly and carefully dismounts his horse.

“There,” he says softly, pointing to a fleet of deer grazing further ahead.

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred chuckles at Ronan’s comment of rarely parting from his love. “I know the feeling. Finan and I are rarely far from one another. Even when we don’t share nights together our chambers are right next to each other. I can still feel his presence nearby.” The Dane smiles wistfully. In the decade he and Finan have been together they have always remained close, even before they professed their love for one another.

“You’re welcome…” Uhtred grins remembering how he decorated their home for their special night. “It was my contribution to your special day. It warms my heart to hear that you enjoyed it.”

Leading Tintreg behind him, Uhtred follows the tracks quietly, keeping his eyes out for their prey. When Ronan points the small fleet of deer ahead of them, the Dane grins thankful that they won’t go home empty handed. He motions to Ronan to dismount, confident that his horse will stay with Tintreg as they stealthily approach the deer. Grabbing his bow and arrows, Uhtred motions with a finger to his mouth that they should be silent so as not to spook the herd away.

When they find a good spot nearby, they crouch down in the brush hiding their presence as they watch the deer for a moment. There is a nice large stag watching over the three or four doe munching on the grass.

“I’ll take a shot at him, if you want to try to get one of the doe.” Uhtred whispers quietly to the young prince, the excitement of the hunt flaring out in his chest. That stag will bring a lot of meat to the fortress, and will help put his husband’s mind at ease for the upcoming winter.

@ronanofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

“Mhm…” the prince hums, quietly crouching down next to Uhtred as he readies his bow and draws an arrow. He slowly begins his aim, seconds away from loosening his shot before something in the distance spooks their game, and the deer start running.

“Shit…” Ronan rasps out, looking at Uhtred. When he hears something in the distance, likely what scared the deer away, he furrows his brows and holds Uhtred’s eye contact as they listen.

@askuhtredragnarson

[alfredofwessex69]

“Greetings, Lord.” A voice beckons from the forest, the sound of crunching leaves coming into awareness as Steapa’s band of men slowly surround the Dane and Finan’s eldest. The Kingsguard smiles at Uhtred’s immediate shock, giving him a mocking nod before his eyes drift to Ronan.

“You keep the most beautiful company,” Steapa says, a chuckle under his breath. “Perhaps even dangerous… but this time, I came prepared.”

Men of Wessex draw their swords as they come closer, creating a shield of men with no means of an exit as they surround the Dane and the Prince. Steapa draws his sword, joining them in the middle.

“My King wishes to speak with you, and the answer that falls from your lips will be yes. Won’t it, Uhtred?”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

As soon as he hears the Kingsguard’s voice, Uhtred’s hand immediately goes behind him to rest on the hilt of his sword. When the King’s men surround him and Ronan, the pit in his stomach grows. There are too many of them to fight off, without risking the life of his husband’s son. Finan would never forgive him if Ronan was hurt as a result of his foolishness. Not to mention, the Northman might just kill him himself if his prince is harmed.

He subtly motions for Ronan to get behind him, not liking the way Steapa is looking at him.

Uhtred’s chin comes up as a hard edge comes to his jaw at Steapa’s demand. He wants to tell the warrior to go to Hel, that he wants nothing to do with his King, but to do that would put the prince’s life in danger.

“You will let him go, if I agree to talk to your King.” It’s not a question, it’s a statement, the hard edge to Uhtred’s voice unmistakable. 

“If any harm comes to him, I will quarter you myself…” the Dane threatens as he glares into Steapa’s eyes.

@ronanofulaid @alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

“I don’t think you have anything to bargain with, Uhtred…” Steapa says with a chuckle, taking a look around at his men.

“You will meet our demands this time. No bargains… no agreements. Nothing…

Take hold of him.” He commands the men, knowing Uhtred won’t make any haste to dispatch them. He’d be a fool to with their numbers.

With the seething look in Uhtred’s eyes, Steapa appeals to the gentler of the two, knowing that he’s finally got both of them right where he wants them.

“How’s this…” Steapa says then, looking at Ronan as he sheaths his sword and draws his dagger.

“You come with me, or I slit his throat, and your Lord dies right here.”

@askuhtredragnarson

[ronanofulaid]

Squeezing Uhtred’s arm with his hand, the shudder that runs through Ronan’s body can practically be felt by the Dane as his breath hitches.

“No! No… I’ll do it,” Ronan speaks up shakily. This was what he felt the whole time out in the forest, an unsettled grief in the pit of his stomach, and he’d been ignoring it the whole time. As Steapa brings his dagger up to point at Ronan’s throat, the prince doesn’t hesitate to disarm his sword belt and drop his own weapons to the ground at Steapa’s command.

He’s too valuable. They won’t hurt him…

I’m at your command, Lord. I will not betray you…

I will not.

Nodding at Uhtred, Ronan hopes that somehow, some way the Dane can hear his thoughts.

“I’ll come with you.” Ronan agrees, a steady decision in his voice.

I’ll be fine.

Ronan scoffs as Steapa grabs him harshly by the arm, leading him away as the guardsmen take Uhtred in another direction.

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred tries to shirk out of the men’s hold, but it is futile, there are just too many of them. He seethes at Steapa, his words tasting bitter in his mouth. His heart is pounding in his chest as the Kingsguard points his dagger at Ronan, the pit in his stomach growing as he watches the prince drop his weapons on the ground.

“Ronan…” Uhtred softly whispers shaking his head no at the young man. A look of apology in the Dane’s eyes. This is all his fault. He should have known better than to venture out into the forest, and taking Ronan with him thus putting his life in danger as well.

He was just tired of feeling like a prisoner in his own home…

“Finan will kill you for this…his husband will kill you for laying hands on him.” Uhtred nods at Ronan, a scowl on his face directed to Steapa.

“Have you heard of a blood eagle? That is what you will be facing if the Northman gets his hands on you.” Uhtred spits on the ground as he glares at his former friend. “You will pray for death before he is done with you.”

As the guardsmen pull him away, Uhtred drags his feet trying to wrestle out of their hold. If anything the tracks left behind will tell a story of what happened. A guard lands a punch to Uhtred’s gut for his efforts of delaying them. As they force Uhtred towards a path in the forest he spots a wagon up ahead. He tries again in vain to pull out of their hold, his fighting spirit not wanting to give up. They dispose him of his weapons, tossing his sword and seax on the ground, before slapping chains on his wrists in an effort to subdue the warrior. They force him into the wagon before taking off to an unknown destination.

Gods, Finan…find Ronan, save your son…

Uhtred looks up to the sky beseeching his Gods.

@ronanofulaid @alfredofwessex69

[ronanofulaid]

As the Wessex guardsmen drag Uhtred away to a caged wagon, Steapa pulls Ronan along in the opposite direction. The prince doesn’t fight it — he thinks perhaps if he did, it would only make things worse.

Pushing the prince against a tree, Steapa forces his hands in front of him, immediately tying them with rope into harsh knots. Ronan winces at the tightness of them as Steapa pulls him along by an extension of the rope. They walk for a great while, until a desolate cabin comes into view. The prince’s eye widen in a feeling of Deja vu when he realizes that this was once a dream that kept him tossing and turning a few nights before him and Björn’s wedding. Gods, if only he could sharpen his ability. Learn to control it, and wield it… to prevent such horrors from happening.

Björn, hear me. I’m here. I’m right here. Not far…

The prince uses his thoughts like a mantra, repeating the words in his head over and over again. All he can do is try, and hope that somehow it gets through. The Gods gave him his sight for a reason, and surely he could get through to his husband, even with just his mind.

Björn! Hear me!

The prince huffs as Steapa roughly pulls him into the cabin, his heart racing at whatever may happen next.

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

As the wagon rolls down the dirt path, Uhtred glares out of the bars of the metal cage at the men surrounding him. Hanging his head he tries to calm the racing of his heart as memories of the last time he was in a metal cage on a wagon flash before his eyes.

They are taking me to Alfred…not to the Trader. 

Not that it’s any better.

Uhtred repeats it to himself over and over again. He tries to pull at the metal cuffs around his wrists but they won’t budge, and it just furthers his frustration.

How could I be so stupid…How could I endanger my husband’s son…

A growl erupts from Uhtred’s chest as he elbows the bars of the cage, his fury growing. The sun dips below the horizon as darkness starts to fall. It’s been hours of travel, his legs already feeling cramped in the narrow cage. He still has no idea where the men are taking him, as they turn off the main trail onto an even narrower one. One that could be missed easily if you didn’t know what you are looking for. He can smell rain in the air as dark clouds block out the stars starting to shine.

The rain will wash away their tracks…

Uhtred feels disheartened the further away from home he gets, unsure if his love will be able to find him. Unsure of what Alfred’s true intentions are towards him. Uhtred scowls at the men surrounding the wagon imagining how he is going to dispatch each and every one of them.

Suddenly the wagon lurches to a stop, and Uhtred tries to take in his surroundings the best that he can in the darkness. It appears to be a cottage, he can see candlelight flickering in a window. One of the guardsmen throws open the door to the cage before grabbing the chains that bind Uhtred’s wrists. He yanks the Dane out, laughing as Uhtred falls to the ground. Uhtred stands up glaring at the guardsman before head butting him. Another man comes up behind Uhtred laying a punch against his back, knocking the breath from the warrior.

“Come…” the guard behind Uhtred orders, obviously speaking to the other men. “He wants him chained up inside, so that he can’t escape…”

Dragging Uhtred inside the sparsely furnished cottage they bring him to a spot between two posts where chains are dangling down. The men strip Uhtred of his armor and his tunic before chaining him to the posts, his arms outstretched.

“Our King, will be with you shortly…” The men laugh before they take their leave of the Dane.

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

As the guardsmen leave, a few long minutes pass before a familiar silhouette enters the room.

“I won’t hurt you. But you’ve made this impossible, Uhtred…” Alfred says solemnly as he approaches. His eyes drift to Uhtred’s torso momentarily, and the King feels his cheeks turn red hot.

“I’ve made mistakes. I’ve done terrible, horrible things to you, and I don’t deserve your forgiveness…

But we are bonded, you and I,” Alfred says, looking into Uhtred’s eyes. His pride finally shatters, speaking to the Dane with pleading eyes and an open heart.

“I regret that it’s come to this, but I had to speak to you again. We have wronged each other… numbers of times. But I constantly come to the realization, that I am lost without you.”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred lets out a mirthless laugh as he glances down at the chains that bind him. “You’re right…you don’t deserve my forgiveness…

…and we are not bonded. I was only ever your hound. The one you sent to fight your battles. To fight for your dreams, while you did nothing but crush mine.” The Dane seethes as he glares into Alfred’s eyes.

“Taking my family from me, my wife…” Uhtred shakes his head. “Why? Were you hoping I’d seek comfort in your arms? That I would cling to you in my darkest hour…” the warrior huffs out a breath, rage barely concealed under the surface.

He knows he should offer the King placating words, tell him what he wants to hear to get him to let down his guard, but he can’t bring himself to do it. He cannot lie to himself in order to please his captor.

“I will fall to my knees for no man, no king and no Christian God…never again.”

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

“I don’t need you to bend the knee to me,” Alfred says, shaking his head. “I-I don’t even need your sword…”

Stepping closer, Alfred looks into the Dane’s eyes intently.

“Have you not accomplished your dreams? Have you not resumed your birthright… achieved all you set out to accomplish?

Uhtred, I am sorry. I was young, and foolish, and reckless… selfish. Yes, I did think that at one time. I did.” Alfred admits.

“Tell me. Tell me how I can make this right between us. I will do anything,” the King says, in a tone that’s so rare to him.

“I don’t expect you to bow. I don’t expect anything but for you to see that I…” Alfred sighs.

“I care deeply for you. I always have. It’s the reason I sent your brother for you when you were at sea. We are bonded. Even if it’s in a way that you despise.”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

“Yes, I have accomplished my dreams of reclaiming my birthright, with no help from you…not even as a thanks for all my years of service for you.” Uhtred sneers at the King. “It almost cost me my life…” the Dane glances at the scar near his collarbone. “…but now my family has a home that no one can take from us.” Uhtred can’t help that jab at the King, remembering how he stripped him of his lands and titles in Coccham.

“There is only one man whom I am bonded to. One man that holds my heart forever….and you endeavored to take him from me as well. Kidnapping his wife to ransom him to his brother in the hopes that he would be killed.

In the hopes that my heart would be freed…” Uhtred spits on the ground in disgust.

“If you care so deeply for me, then why do you endeavor to take everything I hold dear away from me? Is it because you are jealous of the love I had for Gisela? The love I have for Finan?

You can’t stand the fact that he is the one I lay with. The one I share my heart and my bed with…” Uhtred cocks an eyebrow at Alfred.

“Tell me why you can’t let me go. Tell me what it is you really want from me.”

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

Alfred glares at him, his stoic expression only punctuated by a subtle flare in his nostrils, a slight mistiness in his eyes.

“I want what Finan has. I always have. Does that please you?” The King says, his voice slightly raised.

“Does it please you to see me weak with this?” Alfred seethes.

“I bear my heart fruitlessly. Because you refuse to grow. To change,” Alfred says, shaking his head. It’s then that Steapa enters the room. When he sees the King visibly upset, he takes a hand to his shoulder, and the King effectively storms out of the room to cool off.

“You really are set in your ways, aren’t you Lord?” Steapa says. “Uhtred of Bebbanburg, never to bow to any man, any God… even if it would be easier.”

Taking a few steps closer, Steapa grabs a steel rod, playing with it in his hands like a threat.

“The prince is so beguiling…” Steapa says to Uhtred with a smirk.

“I have to wonder… is he a whore just like his father? Will he beg for it? Or will he beg me to stop?”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

“Does that please me?” The Dane shakes his head. “That a man who has sought, time after time, to destroy my life, to take away all that I hold dear, does it out of some twisted sense of love. 

If that’s even what you can call it. Sounds more like lust in my ears.” Uhtred replies in a mocking tone. “You will never have this…” the warrior glances down his chest in show. “Only one man will have that pleasure…my husband.”

Uhtred huffs out a breath. “I refuse to grow? To change? Yet I’m the one who has been stolen from my home…being held in chains. All I beg of you is distance…to live my life in peace.”

As Steapa enters the room, Uhtred’s eyes narrow as a sneer comes to his face. “You know me…I never take the easy way out. I speak my truth, whether he wants to hear it or not.

…and what, now the King’s dog is here to do his bidding?” Uhtred smirks watching as Steapa plays with a steel rod. If the Kingsguard thinks Uhtred will show him fear with his thinly veiled threat, then he truly doesn’t know the Dane.

At Steapa’s next words, a red hot rage comes over Uhtred as the Dane tries to take a step forward. He growls in frustration as the chains limit his movements. He tries to kick the Kingsguard but narrowly misses him as Steapa steps just out of reach.

“You lay one hand on him, and I will personally cut off your cock, and stuff it into your mouth.” Uhtred growls out, barely hiding the shudder of rage that courses through him. They can do whatever they want to him, but if they hurt Ronan, neither the King or his guardsman will make it out of this alive.

Visions of a similar event arises in Uhtred’s mind…when Aelfric took Finan, and he instantly feels sick to his stomach.

“Let him go!” Uhtred growls out between clenched teeth.

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

Steapa shakes his head. “Not that easily.”

Stepping a little closer, Steapa looks into Uhtred’s eyes.

“All of this can be resolved. All of it… but you refuse to submit. You refuse to address him with respect, and acknowledge your bond…

Unfortunately for you, Lord, the King will have you willingly, or as a prisoner. He won’t live his last years without you. He was to let you reside here, in Bebbanburg… but not without you sworn to him once more. So we are in route to Wessex at dawn. Don’t worry… the Prince will be joining us as well. He’ll just be with me.” Steapa chuckles.

“I can’t wait for him to see our lands.”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

“I will never submit to him…” Uhtred growls out. “I will never acknowledge a bond, because there is no bond. The only bond I have is the one I share with my husband.”

“I will never be what he wants me to be…he will never have what Finan has.” Uhtred roars as he glares daggers at Steapa. “I will never let him touch me…”

“I have already given him too much of my life. Too much for someone who valued me so little. I will not swear myself to him again. He is not my King.”

“Ronan belongs here. In Bebbanburg. With his husband.” Uhtred seethes his head shaking as a mirthless smile comes to his face. “None of this is going to bode well for either of you, when Björn Ironside finds you. Not to mention, the Northman’s father.”

A cocky look comes to Uhtred’s eyes, refusing to be intimidated by the King and his guard. “Dawn might be too late for you…You’re crazy if you think our men aren’t already on your trail. They will find him…”

Please, Finan…find your son. Save him.

I’m so sorry this happened…

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

“He was married, hm?” Steapa asks, cocking his head. A smirk comes across his face as Uhtred glares at him.

“Suit yourself, Lord. A few of my men here might be able to change your mind…”

Steapa leaves the room then, a few of Alfred’s men joining in his place. Some to keep watch, and others to coerce him with force.

[askuhtredragnarson]

“He was…to a man worthy of him. A Northman, who will happily end your life for taking him from him.” Uhtred glares at Steapa. He only wishes he could be there to bear witness to the Northman’s wrath against the Kingsguard.

“They can try, but my resolve will not waver.” Uhtred glares at the other men coming into the cottage. Their hair wet from the rain that has just started falling outside.

“I will not submit to him…” Uhtred yells at Steapa’s retreating back. Before turning his attention to the other guardsmen. A cocky smile coming to his face despite the rage drumming under his skin. He will not show weakness to these cowards. Even as the first man lays a punch to his stomach, Uhtred hides his pain behind a laugh.

“Is that all you’ve got?” The Dane taunts the men. They could knock him senseless, and he still won’t give into their demands. He belongs to one man, and one man only. Finan.

The King will never get that which he desire. Uhtred will never be a willing participant.

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

“Enough!!” Alfred shouts as he reenters the room. He shews the guardsmen away, taking a look at the bloodied lip Uhtred sustained. Thankfully, they left his face otherwise unmarred.

“Take him to my chamber. Leave his wrists and ankles bound,” Alfred orders them.

The Saxons quickly work to take the Dane’s ankles up in chains, letting each of his wrists loose before securing them again with irons in front of him. They drag Uhtred along with them until they reach a room, a chamber set up for the King as regally as possible. The put Uhtred into a chair forcefully, taking more chains to secure his wrists to the armrests.

“Leave us,” Alfred commands. He picks up a vial from the table, taking some of the liquid onto his finger and then onto Uhtred’s bottom lip at the Dane’s absolute revolt.

“Relax. Give in to it.” Alfred says, running his hand up Uhtred’s arm. The tonic he gave up will make his body feel limp, his mind a bit more pliable.

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred raises his hanging head at Alfred’s shout. His tongue darting out to the cut on his lip tasting the blood. Alfred’s men have done a number on him, but thankfully nothing is broken. He shakes his head, a cocky look in his eyes as his breaths come out in pants. He imagines bruises are flaring out on his chest and stomach from the blows, but he still won’t submit.

The Saxons remove his boots and quickly fashion chains on the Dane’s ankles. The weight of them reminding him of other chains from a time long ago.

This will not break me…

Uhtred focuses his mind on his love, on Finan. Seeing the Irishman’s face in his thoughts strengthens his resolve. Gives purpose to the pain flaring out in his chest. His bond with Finan helped him survive the Trader, it will help him survive this.

As the men lower his arms replacing the chains on his wrists, Uhtred feels the blood rushing down to his hands as a tingling feeling takes over. The numbness he was starting to feel from their raised position, now uncomfortable as they start to wake. Uhtred nearly stumbles as the men drag him into another room, a chambers fit for a King, a stark difference to the rest of the cottage. He swallows back a knot in his throat at the large bed looming in the center of the room, thankful when the men take him to a chair instead. But not without a struggle. Ignoring the pain in his torso, Uhtred tries to pull out of their hold, but just like in the forest, there are too many of them.

Once he’s been properly secured, the men leave at their King’s behest and Uhtred’s attention shifts to Alfred. He feels his stomach drop at the vial in Alfred’s hands, recalling again the tonic his love was given at the hands of his uncle. Uhtred tries to turn his face away, but it doesn’t stop the King from running his finger across his bottom lip. He tries to spit out whatever the concoction is, but he fears it has already started absorbing into his blood stream.

“What do you hope to gain by this?” Uhtred challenges. “I will not give into it.” Goosebumps prickle at the King’s touch across his arm as a shiver runs down his spine.

“I will not betray my husband…” Uhtred seethes as he glares at the King.

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

“I don’t think that’s true,” Alfred says softly, running his hands across Uhtred’s shoulders.

“I think… you’ve thought about it. Especially in the marshes. When you were in Coccham. All those times we shared in Wessex when your children were young…” he says. He kneels before the Dane, bringing his fingers to the laces of his breeches and toying with them, not yet unlacing. He comes closer to Uhtred, placing a soft kiss on his lips, loving the soft suppleness of them.

“Is that what I’ve been missing?” He asks, whispering against his lips.

“Perhaps I should have them unchain you. I have no doubt you would behave now.”

Standing from his knelt position, the King takes Uhtred’s chin.

“Whatever you had with the Irishman… is over.”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred bristles at the King’s hands on his shoulders. “Then you are delusional…” the Dane mutters out.

The King’s reminiscing about a time long ago stirs no feelings within the Dane. At least not the feeling he expects. Sure they spent time together, and at one time him might have considered Alfred a friend, but never nothing more than that. Not when his heart already belonged to another.

When the King’s hands rest at the laces of his breeches, Uhtred tries to shift away, but his legs and arms are starting to feel heavy, and he can barely move them. He growls in frustration, feeling a haziness in his head like his thoughts are becoming fuzzy. He tries to turn his head away from Alfred’s kiss, but his movements are becoming slow. It irks him that he can wipe the moisture from the kiss from his lips.

“It was never yours to miss…” Uhtred utters out, his eyes glaring even though it feels like they are playing tricks on him. “My cock will not rise for you…I have no desire in my body to be touched by you.”

“It’s not over…he is my husband. The love of my life.” Uhtred growls defiantly. He closes his eyes as the room starts spinning. He can feel his heart pounding in his chest as the tonic pulls him further under it’s spell.

“I will not give you what you want…” It becomes a mantra in Uhtred’s head as he tries desperately to fight the effect of the tonic.

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

“Oh, you will, my dear. I don’t care if it takes days… months, years. You will not be returning to Bebbanburg, and the more you fight it, the more exhausted you’ll be.”

Leaving and returning with some men, Alfred orders them to unchain Uhtred from the chair, and carry him to the bed.

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Following the route the best he can, Finan leads his guardsmen through the dark, Ragnar at his side on his horse. It’s been hours by now, and Finan’s mind is reeling. The love of his life, and his baby. Alfred had single handedly hurt every person he truly loved now, and he was finished with it. He should have killed the King when Revna was taken, and now… he regrets not doing it with his entire soul.

Along the way, the Irishman gives coin generously to villagers who can say whether or not they had witnessed something, and as they come in contact with watchmen from Wessex, they threaten them with their lives to get them to talk. Between Finan and Ragnar, their ruthlessness is palpable and quite effective throughout the travel, but the hours long journey starts to make the Irishman worry.

“What happens if I kill him?” He drawls to Ragnar lowly. When the Viking shrugs and gives him a teasing smirk, Finan smiles.

It’s settled in his mind. He will kill every last one of them, if needed. He prays that Revna and Bjorn had some luck with their own search. Finan can’t handle even the thought of them not finding his son, nor does he let his mind waiver to thoughts of his husband being long gone. Never.

One of Revna’s ravens had stopped in on them throughout the night, seemingly leading them in the right direction or correcting forks in the road. He disappeared for a while, but when he returns, the raven’s caws lead Finan to a turn of direction that leads them all to the very edge of a Saxon settlement and camp. Thankfully… it’s nighttime, so they could attack most of them with the element of surprise. He looks at Ragnar with furrowed brows, perhaps in a question of guidance before he does something crazy like Bjorn stated earlier.

@askuhtredragnarson @lagertha-lothbrok

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred makes a feeble attempt to shake his head no. “I’m not going anywhere with you…my husband will find me. You should pray to your God for a swift death…”

He can feel himself getting weaker as his limbs feel like dead weight. Uhtred tries to focus on Finan, to give him strength. When he opens his eyes, for a moment he sees the Irishman before him. He feels hope flare out in his chest, but the image is blurry at the edges and quickly fades being replaced by Alfred standing before him.

As the men unchain him to be moved to the bed, he can barely feel it. Only the touch on his skin while everything else feels numb. Uhtred lets out a groan as they lift him from the chair. He wants to fight, as he grits his teeth, but his body won’t cooperate. He is at their mercy as they roughly manhandle him onto the furs.

“I will not give you what you want….” Uhtred repeats, barely above a whisper.

@alfredofwessex69

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar sits on his horse, running his hand through his beard as they look upon the settlement and camp. He can see guards milling about, while he assumes the rest have retired for the night. The pitch black of the sky offers them a good cover, and he’s sure they could kill most of them before an alarm is even raised, but once it is time is of the essence. Glancing back, the Northman smiles at the large number of men who have joined them in their search.

“…if an alarm sounds, will they kill your Lord?” Ragnar asks the Irishman as he glances over at him.

“We need to find where he is held, before we rush in blindly. Our force can easily decimated them…but it will be for naught if they kill Uhtred.” he comments as more men join their ranks, having heard of the Lord’s capture. He gives a nod to Lagertha sitting not far behind them on her white horse.

The raven flys overhead towards a cottage sitting off in the distance. Ragnar taps Finan’s shoulder before pointing at the majestic bird landing in the thatch of the cottage. 

“There…” Ragnar nods towards the raven. “Perhaps we should take a closer look?” He asks as he looks into Finan’s eyes.

Ragnar motions Lagertha forward, and when she sides her horse between the two men, Ragnar gives her a little smirk. He can already feel the drum of battle in his blood as an almost giddy feeling comes over him. He shakes it off as a serious look comes over his face.

“The Irishman and I are going to sneak over there and investigate the cottage…” he motions with his head. “You stand at the ready to lead our men to battle…wipe all of them out…”

“Once we have Lord Uhtred secured…I’m sure the raven will let you know when it’s time.” Ragnar gives the Shieldmaiden a playful smile. 

“In the meantime, have the men surround the settlement…”

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

“They won’t kill him,” Finan says in a stern brogue, his dark eyes drifting over the settlement.

He’s too precious…

The Irishman takes a shuddering breath. Thank the Gods Ragnar is with him, someone just as experienced or more so to lead alongside him while his heart dances on the edge. A simmering rage boils in his blood, sharpened by a powerful fear in his heart for the man he loves more than anything in the world.

Finan’s eyes follow Ragnar’s as the raven lands upon the thatch of the cottage, and instantly his heart says yes. For most of his life, he never paid any heed to such signs— but at his mother’s pagan ways, and his marriages to both a Shieldmaiden and a Dane, he trusted it more than any holy relic with meager results.

“Don’t hesitate,” Finan adds to Ragnar’s words to Lagertha, before dismounting his horse. He waits for the Northman to do the same, before drawing his dagger.

“Let’s move.”

Moving by stealth in the darkness, the Irishman leads as the two of them sneak around the forest’s edge, coming closer to the cottage in the distance.

“… how are we gonna get in? A window? Bust down the door?” Finan says, almost in jest, but also in a serious question.

@lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Skirting the forest around the cottage, Ragnar follows the Irishman, ever watchful for a guard or man that might notice their presence. He would think the King of Wessex would have scouts posted everywhere watching for their arrival, but maybe his foolish to believe he will get away with his plans. The rain has stopped and the clouds above are starting to break revealing the stars.

The two men hide behind a couple large boulders at they watch the cottage for any movement. There are men posted out front and a couple walking the perimeter. Who knows how many are inside.

“I think before we go busting down any doors, we might want to deal with them first.” Ragnar smirks as he motions to the men guarding the cottage.

“Quietly…” he adds.

“We don’t know how many are inside…perhaps we find a way to lure them out?” Ragnar suggests as he cocks an inquisitive eye at Finan.

“I know you want to get to him as quickly as possible…” Ragnar tries to calm the Irishman. “…but we should still be cautious. They may not kill him, but it might not stop them from hurting him.”

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

Walking towards the village with Hati nipping at his heels, Uhtred grins down at his pup. Hati has grown by leaps and bounds since his rescue in the forest, and now he’s like a shadow to Uhtred following the Dane everywhere he goes. The day is unseasonably warm, the warm before the storm. There are not many good hunting days left as winter quickly approaches.

Approaching Björn and Ronan’s cottage, Uhtred opens the metal gate before stepping into the yard. He smiles at the home the young couple have made for one another, remembering fondly when he surprised them with a romantic gesture. However, today he has other plans. He has not had very many opportunities to spend time with Finan’s oldest. To bond with his husband’s son, and he would very much like to rectify that. Ronan is important to Finan and thus important to him as well. What better way to bond with the young man, then to take him hunting to build up their winter stores.

Rapping on the door of the cottage, Uhtred waits for the prince to answer, hopeful that the young man will be receptive to spending some time with him.

@askuhtredragnarson

Holding his baby kitten in his arm, the prince pads to the door. Typically he takes a look out the window to see who it is, but his intuition and foresight grows stronger as he nurses it over time. He can’t tell who it is, but it’s someone in the family. He can feel it.

Swinging the door of their cottage open, Ronan smiles.

“Lord Uhtred…” he greets him, smiling down at his pup. It wasn’t completely rare to see Uhtred in the village, but his presence radiated like no other’s in this part could. He’s a leader that everyone respects and adores.

“… ehm, to what do I owe the pleasure?”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred gives Ronan a sheepish smile, as Hati chews on a strap of leather on his boots. “I was curious if you’d like to go hunting with me. It’s a beautiful day and I was hoping we could find a deer or some boar to add to our winter supplies. It won’t be long before it’s too cold and the winter storms make hunting difficult.”

Offering the prince a warm smile, Uhtred tries to shake Hati off his boot letting out a chuckle as the pup playfully growls.

“You and I haven’t had many chances to spend time together. To get to know one another, and I would like to change that. I have had a chance to bond with little Tora, and I would like the chance to do the same with you. I figured you might prefer hunting than sparring…” Uhtred tilts his head as he raises an eyebrow.

“Your father means the world to me, and you mean the world to him. That make you important to me as well.” Uhtred softens his eyes at the young Irishman.

“Will your husband let me steal you away for a bit?” The Dane smirks.

@ronanofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

Ronan raises his brows and tilts his head at Uhtred’s words, surprised at such an offer. Nevertheless, it sounds like an amazing idea, and so considerate of him to reach out to him like this. The prince smiles warmly, giving the Dane a nod.

“I would love to! … please, come on in!” the prince rings out, stepping aside and holding the door open for him.

“Bear… Lord Uhtred is here,” Ronan says, walking to the kitchen where Björn sits. He hands Mara to him, grinning when the Northman cradles the little kitten against his chest. “He’s invited me on a hunt,” the prince grins, feeling a little special that Uhtred sought him out.

“Make yerself at home, Lord. I’ll just put on some warmer clothes and I’ll be ready in no time…

We have food and drink, please help yerself to it…”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Stepping into the cottage, Uhtred takes in the cozy home as a warm smile comes to his face. Seeing Björn sitting in the kitchen, Uhtred follows Ronan, giving the Northman a nod of greeting.

“I hope you don’t mind if I borrow your husband for a little while.” Uhtred asks the Northman.

Björn looks up at Uhtred as he plops a piece of meat into his mouth. There is a wariness in his eyes that the Dane notices, and he’s not sure if it’s from their past grievances or maybe his protectiveness for the prince. Uhtred can’t say he blames him, he himself struggles to let Finan out of his sight.

“Where are you planning on going hunting?” Björn asks looking up at the Dane.

“The forest just beyond the village…” Uhtred answers. “I used to go hunting there when I was a youth. I remember it being heavy with deer tracks, and sometimes you can come across a wild boar in those woods.”

Björn nods his head having been through that forest himself recently in his own efforts to provide meat for his family. “The game has been plentiful…” the warrior muses.

“We should be back well before dusk…It’s my hope we can both bring home a plump deer. Ease my own husband’s mind about having enough stores to get us through the winter…” Uhtred chuckles remembering Finan’s concerns about their preparedness for the colder months.

“I would have taken Finan with me, but I believe he was planning on going foraging in the forest with Revna. Something about them needing to stock up on ginger and peppermint…” The Dane smiles as he shakes his head. 

“I figure this gives me a chance to bond with my step son…”

@ronanofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

While Uhtred speaks to his husband, the prince dons his cloak and a few leathers, more for warmth than for protection — it’s uncharacteristically warm outside, but Ronan knows he’ll still be freezing. He grabs his set of arrows and a bow, donning his sword belt. For a second he thinks of taking the sword that Ragnar gave him — but it’s much too special. That one needs to be blooded on an important occasion.

The prince snickers to himself when he hears Uhtred tell Björn his hopes of him not minding if they go.

Of course he minds… but he’s also sweet. And it gives Björn time to check up on his own preparations, see the children, check on Lagertha…

Stepping into the kitchen, Ronan hands Uhtred a water skin he filled for him.

“Won’t be too long, eh?” Ronan asks Uhtred, before kneeling at his husband’s side. He gives him a deep kiss, before bringing the kiss to his cheek and whispering in his ear.

“I love you. Don’t miss me too much,” he whispers, sharing a beaming smile and a twinkle in his eyes with Björn.

“I’m ready when you are, Lord.”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

“Easier said than done…you know I miss you every moment we are parted.” The Northman whispers back to Ronan as he nuzzles into his husband. “I love you, my little selkie.”

Uhtred gives the lovers a warm smile feeling the love between them. It reminds him so much of the love he shares with Finan. He is happy for both of them having found one another.

“I’ll have him back before dusk…” The Dane tries to reassure the Northman. “…perhaps earlier if we are successful.” He gives the prince a little wink.

“I am ready.” Uhtred smiles at Ronan. “We’ll go to the fortress and gather our horses, then head off. We’ll need them to carry back our kills. The stable boys should already be preparing them.”

Uhtred gives Björn a final nod before following Ronan out of the cottage, Hati following obediently beside him. “You’re staying at the fortress…” Uhtred warns his pup as he points a stern finger at him. “You’ll probably scare off all the game.” The Dane chuckles as they follow the winding path to the fortress.

When they arrive at the stable, Tintreg is already prancing anxious to go out. With his Serpent’s Breath over his shoulder and Wasp Sting in his belt, Uhtred grabs a spear in case they come across a boar, along with a bow and quiver of arrows. Picking up Hati, the Dane hands the pup to the stable boy to hold him until they are out of the gate. The pup immediately starts whining and trying to wiggle from the boy’s grasp.

“Soon, Hati…I’ll take you hunting with me once you’re a little less…rambunctious.” Uhtred chuckles.

“Ready?” The Dane looks over to Ronan, giving the young prince a smile before he mounts his horse. Once Ronan is settled on his horse, Uhtred leads them to the gate and to the trail leading to the forest.

@ronanofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

“Before dusk, bear!” Ronan rings out as he echoes Uhtred’s words, squeezing Björn’s hand until the distance grows between them.

“Yes, Lord,” Ronan tells Uhtred regarding the horses. He feels a slight tremble in his hands that is so rare to him, perhaps even a feeling in his gut. The prince brushes it off though, knowing that he’s likely just nervous to be alone with Uhtred. He admires him so much, and the Dane was right — they hadn’t really had the chance to spend too much time together alone. Ronan felt comfortable around him, but Uhtred is just such a strong presence.

“He’s cute,” Ronan grins, smiling down at Hati.

“He is growin’ so fast!!”

Taking his bag to his own horse, the prince straps it in and settles it before swiftly mounting up.

“Ready, Lord!” He nods, before kicking his horse into a trot as he follows Uhtred’s lead. They slowly trot past the gates, kicking their horses into a quicker gallop as they leave.

“So… everything is alright. Right?” Ronan asks Uhtred after a few moments, still getting that weird feeling come over him.

“You aren’t takin’ me out to have some sort of conversation with me, are you?”

The prince can’t imagine what that conversation could be. Something about duty, or love, or Bebbanburg… who knows. When Uhtred lets out a billowing laugh, the prince calms, knowing then that he’s likely wrong.

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred glances over at Ronan with a playful smirk. “What? Gods, no…” the Dane laughs. “I figure you get enough of that from your father.” He winks at Ronan, with a light-hearted look.

“I haven’t been outside the fortress much since my injury…and since the attack on the village.” Uhtred admits looking over at Ronan. “I used to roam these hills when I was a child, exploring. I have missed that since my return to Bebbanburg.” A wistfulness comes to his eyes, memories of years long past crossing his mind.

“I just figured you might enjoy exploring it with me…” Uhtred smiles at Ronan. “Maybe show off to your husband your skills at hunting.”

“Speaking of Björn, how is married life treating you?” Uhtred gives the young man a teasing look. “I’d say, I haven’t seen much of you since the wedding.”

“I often wish I would have postponed the march on Bebbanburg a little longer…” Uhtred reveals a hint of sadness in his eyes. “…to give your father the honeymoon he deserved. Instead of the heartbreak I ultimately gave him in my haste to claim our home. Maybe things would have gone differently.” The Dane glances down at his chest remembering the arrow that almost took his life. He is thankful the wound has finally healed and now he can rebuild the strength he has lost from the injury.

Seeing some deer tracks up ahead in the forest, Uhtred slows his horse to jump down and examine them. “They look fresh…” he comments as his crouches down to touch the print in the wet dirt. Looking around the trail, he spots some deer droppings, flies buzzing around the fresh pile. “Look…” he points it out to Ronan. “…there should be a deer close by.”

@ronanofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

“Thank God,” Ronan says, returning Uhtred’s laugh.

“Yes, of course Lord. I’m grateful you asked me. That you are finally coming out again, and it’s me you chose to do it with,” the prince smiles.

“… I must admit Lord, I rarely part from him, and I enjoy the times I share with his children. We are very happy.” Ronan says, a little blush rising to his cheeks at the thought of it all.

“I never thanked you for what you did for us. How you contributed in makin’ it special. Thank you, Uhtred…”

The prince remembers like it was yesterday how absolutely devastated his father was when Uhtred was injured. Many people were, constant prayers being heeded for the Lord’s recovery, and Ronan even worried that perhaps their siege had been unsuccessful after all. The prince knows now how crushing it would feel to come close to losing the love of his life. He doesn’t even want to imagine it.

Crinkling his nose at Uhtred’s musings at the deer tracks, he steers his horse to follow him. He wasn’t quite keen on the act itself, but he always felt accomplished when it was done.

“Whatever you say, Lord,” Ronan snickers.

As they go further into the forest, the prince whispers to Uhtred, pointing up ahead as he slowly and carefully dismounts his horse.

“There,” he says softly, pointing to a fleet of deer grazing further ahead.

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred chuckles at Ronan’s comment of rarely parting from his love. “I know the feeling. Finan and I are rarely far from one another. Even when we don’t share nights together our chambers are right next to each other. I can still feel his presence nearby.” The Dane smiles wistfully. In the decade he and Finan have been together they have always remained close, even before they professed their love for one another.

“You’re welcome…” Uhtred grins remembering how he decorated their home for their special night. “It was my contribution to your special day. It warms my heart to hear that you enjoyed it.”

Leading Tintreg behind him, Uhtred follows the tracks quietly, keeping his eyes out for their prey. When Ronan points the small fleet of deer ahead of them, the Dane grins thankful that they won’t go home empty handed. He motions to Ronan to dismount, confident that his horse will stay with Tintreg as they stealthily approach the deer. Grabbing his bow and arrows, Uhtred motions with a finger to his mouth that they should be silent so as not to spook the herd away.

When they find a good spot nearby, they crouch down in the brush hiding their presence as they watch the deer for a moment. There is a nice large stag watching over the three or four doe munching on the grass.

“I’ll take a shot at him, if you want to try to get one of the doe.” Uhtred whispers quietly to the young prince, the excitement of the hunt flaring out in his chest. That stag will bring a lot of meat to the fortress, and will help put his husband’s mind at ease for the upcoming winter.

@ronanofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

“Mhm…” the prince hums, quietly crouching down next to Uhtred as he readies his bow and draws an arrow. He slowly begins his aim, seconds away from loosening his shot before something in the distance spooks their game, and the deer start running.

“Shit…” Ronan rasps out, looking at Uhtred. When he hears something in the distance, likely what scared the deer away, he furrows his brows and holds Uhtred’s eye contact as they listen.

@askuhtredragnarson

[alfredofwessex69]

“Greetings, Lord.” A voice beckons from the forest, the sound of crunching leaves coming into awareness as Steapa’s band of men slowly surround the Dane and Finan’s eldest. The Kingsguard smiles at Uhtred’s immediate shock, giving him a mocking nod before his eyes drift to Ronan.

“You keep the most beautiful company,” Steapa says, a chuckle under his breath. “Perhaps even dangerous… but this time, I came prepared.”

Men of Wessex draw their swords as they come closer, creating a shield of men with no means of an exit as they surround the Dane and the Prince. Steapa draws his sword, joining them in the middle.

“My King wishes to speak with you, and the answer that falls from your lips will be yes. Won’t it, Uhtred?”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

As soon as he hears the Kingsguard’s voice, Uhtred’s hand immediately goes behind him to rest on the hilt of his sword. When the King’s men surround him and Ronan, the pit in his stomach grows. There are too many of them to fight off, without risking the life of his husband’s son. Finan would never forgive him if Ronan was hurt as a result of his foolishness. Not to mention, the Northman might just kill him himself if his prince is harmed.

He subtly motions for Ronan to get behind him, not liking the way Steapa is looking at him.

Uhtred’s chin comes up as a hard edge comes to his jaw at Steapa’s demand. He wants to tell the warrior to go to Hel, that he wants nothing to do with his King, but to do that would put the prince’s life in danger.

“You will let him go, if I agree to talk to your King.” It’s not a question, it’s a statement, the hard edge to Uhtred’s voice unmistakable. 

“If any harm comes to him, I will quarter you myself…” the Dane threatens as he glares into Steapa’s eyes.

@ronanofulaid @alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

“I don’t think you have anything to bargain with, Uhtred…” Steapa says with a chuckle, taking a look around at his men.

“You will meet our demands this time. No bargains… no agreements. Nothing…

Take hold of him.” He commands the men, knowing Uhtred won’t make any haste to dispatch them. He’d be a fool to with their numbers.

With the seething look in Uhtred’s eyes, Steapa appeals to the gentler of the two, knowing that he’s finally got both of them right where he wants them.

“How’s this…” Steapa says then, looking at Ronan as he sheaths his sword and draws his dagger.

“You come with me, or I slit his throat, and your Lord dies right here.”

@askuhtredragnarson

[ronanofulaid]

Squeezing Uhtred’s arm with his hand, the shudder that runs through Ronan’s body can practically be felt by the Dane as his breath hitches.

“No! No… I’ll do it,” Ronan speaks up shakily. This was what he felt the whole time out in the forest, an unsettled grief in the pit of his stomach, and he’d been ignoring it the whole time. As Steapa brings his dagger up to point at Ronan’s throat, the prince doesn’t hesitate to disarm his sword belt and drop his own weapons to the ground at Steapa’s command.

He’s too valuable. They won’t hurt him…

I’m at your command, Lord. I will not betray you…

I will not.

Nodding at Uhtred, Ronan hopes that somehow, some way the Dane can hear his thoughts.

“I’ll come with you.” Ronan agrees, a steady decision in his voice.

I’ll be fine.

Ronan scoffs as Steapa grabs him harshly by the arm, leading him away as the guardsmen take Uhtred in another direction.

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred tries to shirk out of the men’s hold, but it is futile, there are just too many of them. He seethes at Steapa, his words tasting bitter in his mouth. His heart is pounding in his chest as the Kingsguard points his dagger at Ronan, the pit in his stomach growing as he watches the prince drop his weapons on the ground.

“Ronan…” Uhtred softly whispers shaking his head no at the young man. A look of apology in the Dane’s eyes. This is all his fault. He should have known better than to venture out into the forest, and taking Ronan with him thus putting his life in danger as well.

He was just tired of feeling like a prisoner in his own home…

“Finan will kill you for this…his husband will kill you for laying hands on him.” Uhtred nods at Ronan, a scowl on his face directed to Steapa.

“Have you heard of a blood eagle? That is what you will be facing if the Northman gets his hands on you.” Uhtred spits on the ground as he glares at his former friend. “You will pray for death before he is done with you.”

As the guardsmen pull him away, Uhtred drags his feet trying to wrestle out of their hold. If anything the tracks left behind will tell a story of what happened. A guard lands a punch to Uhtred’s gut for his efforts of delaying them. As they force Uhtred towards a path in the forest he spots a wagon up ahead. He tries again in vain to pull out of their hold, his fighting spirit not wanting to give up. They dispose him of his weapons, tossing his sword and seax on the ground, before slapping chains on his wrists in an effort to subdue the warrior. They force him into the wagon before taking off to an unknown destination.

Gods, Finan…find Ronan, save your son…

Uhtred looks up to the sky beseeching his Gods.

@ronanofulaid @alfredofwessex69

[ronanofulaid]

As the Wessex guardsmen drag Uhtred away to a caged wagon, Steapa pulls Ronan along in the opposite direction. The prince doesn’t fight it — he thinks perhaps if he did, it would only make things worse.

Pushing the prince against a tree, Steapa forces his hands in front of him, immediately tying them with rope into harsh knots. Ronan winces at the tightness of them as Steapa pulls him along by an extension of the rope. They walk for a great while, until a desolate cabin comes into view. The prince’s eye widen in a feeling of Deja vu when he realizes that this was once a dream that kept him tossing and turning a few nights before him and Björn’s wedding. Gods, if only he could sharpen his ability. Learn to control it, and wield it… to prevent such horrors from happening.

Björn, hear me. I’m here. I’m right here. Not far…

The prince uses his thoughts like a mantra, repeating the words in his head over and over again. All he can do is try, and hope that somehow it gets through. The Gods gave him his sight for a reason, and surely he could get through to his husband, even with just his mind.

Björn! Hear me!

The prince huffs as Steapa roughly pulls him into the cabin, his heart racing at whatever may happen next.

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

As the wagon rolls down the dirt path, Uhtred glares out of the bars of the metal cage at the men surrounding him. Hanging his head he tries to calm the racing of his heart as memories of the last time he was in a metal cage on a wagon flash before his eyes.

They are taking me to Alfred…not to the Trader. 

Not that it’s any better.

Uhtred repeats it to himself over and over again. He tries to pull at the metal cuffs around his wrists but they won’t budge, and it just furthers his frustration.

How could I be so stupid…How could I endanger my husband’s son…

A growl erupts from Uhtred’s chest as he elbows the bars of the cage, his fury growing. The sun dips below the horizon as darkness starts to fall. It’s been hours of travel, his legs already feeling cramped in the narrow cage. He still has no idea where the men are taking him, as they turn off the main trail onto an even narrower one. One that could be missed easily if you didn’t know what you are looking for. He can smell rain in the air as dark clouds block out the stars starting to shine.

The rain will wash away their tracks…

Uhtred feels disheartened the further away from home he gets, unsure if his love will be able to find him. Unsure of what Alfred’s true intentions are towards him. Uhtred scowls at the men surrounding the wagon imagining how he is going to dispatch each and every one of them.

Suddenly the wagon lurches to a stop, and Uhtred tries to take in his surroundings the best that he can in the darkness. It appears to be a cottage, he can see candlelight flickering in a window. One of the guardsmen throws open the door to the cage before grabbing the chains that bind Uhtred’s wrists. He yanks the Dane out, laughing as Uhtred falls to the ground. Uhtred stands up glaring at the guardsman before head butting him. Another man comes up behind Uhtred laying a punch against his back, knocking the breath from the warrior.

“Come…” the guard behind Uhtred orders, obviously speaking to the other men. “He wants him chained up inside, so that he can’t escape…”

Dragging Uhtred inside the sparsely furnished cottage they bring him to a spot between two posts where chains are dangling down. The men strip Uhtred of his armor and his tunic before chaining him to the posts, his arms outstretched.

“Our King, will be with you shortly…” The men laugh before they take their leave of the Dane.

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

As the guardsmen leave, a few long minutes pass before a familiar silhouette enters the room.

“I won’t hurt you. But you’ve made this impossible, Uhtred…” Alfred says solemnly as he approaches. His eyes drift to Uhtred’s torso momentarily, and the King feels his cheeks turn red hot.

“I’ve made mistakes. I’ve done terrible, horrible things to you, and I don’t deserve your forgiveness…

But we are bonded, you and I,” Alfred says, looking into Uhtred’s eyes. His pride finally shatters, speaking to the Dane with pleading eyes and an open heart.

“I regret that it’s come to this, but I had to speak to you again. We have wronged each other… numbers of times. But I constantly come to the realization, that I am lost without you.”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred lets out a mirthless laugh as he glances down at the chains that bind him. “You’re right…you don’t deserve my forgiveness…

…and we are not bonded. I was only ever your hound. The one you sent to fight your battles. To fight for your dreams, while you did nothing but crush mine.” The Dane seethes as he glares into Alfred’s eyes.

“Taking my family from me, my wife…” Uhtred shakes his head. “Why? Were you hoping I’d seek comfort in your arms? That I would cling to you in my darkest hour…” the warrior huffs out a breath, rage barely concealed under the surface.

He knows he should offer the King placating words, tell him what he wants to hear to get him to let down his guard, but he can’t bring himself to do it. He cannot lie to himself in order to please his captor.

“I will fall to my knees for no man, no king and no Christian God…never again.”

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

“I don’t need you to bend the knee to me,” Alfred says, shaking his head. “I-I don’t even need your sword…”

Stepping closer, Alfred looks into the Dane’s eyes intently.

“Have you not accomplished your dreams? Have you not resumed your birthright… achieved all you set out to accomplish?

Uhtred, I am sorry. I was young, and foolish, and reckless… selfish. Yes, I did think that at one time. I did.” Alfred admits.

“Tell me. Tell me how I can make this right between us. I will do anything,” the King says, in a tone that’s so rare to him.

“I don’t expect you to bow. I don’t expect anything but for you to see that I…” Alfred sighs.

“I care deeply for you. I always have. It’s the reason I sent your brother for you when you were at sea. We are bonded. Even if it’s in a way that you despise.”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

“Yes, I have accomplished my dreams of reclaiming my birthright, with no help from you…not even as a thanks for all my years of service for you.” Uhtred sneers at the King. “It almost cost me my life…” the Dane glances at the scar near his collarbone. “…but now my family has a home that no one can take from us.” Uhtred can’t help that jab at the King, remembering how he stripped him of his lands and titles in Coccham.

“There is only one man whom I am bonded to. One man that holds my heart forever….and you endeavored to take him from me as well. Kidnapping his wife to ransom him to his brother in the hopes that he would be killed.

In the hopes that my heart would be freed…” Uhtred spits on the ground in disgust.

“If you care so deeply for me, then why do you endeavor to take everything I hold dear away from me? Is it because you are jealous of the love I had for Gisela? The love I have for Finan?

You can’t stand the fact that he is the one I lay with. The one I share my heart and my bed with…” Uhtred cocks an eyebrow at Alfred.

“Tell me why you can’t let me go. Tell me what it is you really want from me.”

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

Alfred glares at him, his stoic expression only punctuated by a subtle flare in his nostrils, a slight mistiness in his eyes.

“I want what Finan has. I always have. Does that please you?” The King says, his voice slightly raised.

“Does it please you to see me weak with this?” Alfred seethes.

“I bear my heart fruitlessly. Because you refuse to grow. To change,” Alfred says, shaking his head. It’s then that Steapa enters the room. When he sees the King visibly upset, he takes a hand to his shoulder, and the King effectively storms out of the room to cool off.

“You really are set in your ways, aren’t you Lord?” Steapa says. “Uhtred of Bebbanburg, never to bow to any man, any God… even if it would be easier.”

Taking a few steps closer, Steapa grabs a steel rod, playing with it in his hands like a threat.

“The prince is so beguiling…” Steapa says to Uhtred with a smirk.

“I have to wonder… is he a whore just like his father? Will he beg for it? Or will he beg me to stop?”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

“Does that please me?” The Dane shakes his head. “That a man who has sought, time after time, to destroy my life, to take away all that I hold dear, does it out of some twisted sense of love. 

If that’s even what you can call it. Sounds more like lust in my ears.” Uhtred replies in a mocking tone. “You will never have this…” the warrior glances down his chest in show. “Only one man will have that pleasure…my husband.”

Uhtred huffs out a breath. “I refuse to grow? To change? Yet I’m the one who has been stolen from my home…being held in chains. All I beg of you is distance…to live my life in peace.”

As Steapa enters the room, Uhtred’s eyes narrow as a sneer comes to his face. “You know me…I never take the easy way out. I speak my truth, whether he wants to hear it or not.

…and what, now the King’s dog is here to do his bidding?” Uhtred smirks watching as Steapa plays with a steel rod. If the Kingsguard thinks Uhtred will show him fear with his thinly veiled threat, then he truly doesn’t know the Dane.

At Steapa’s next words, a red hot rage comes over Uhtred as the Dane tries to take a step forward. He growls in frustration as the chains limit his movements. He tries to kick the Kingsguard but narrowly misses him as Steapa steps just out of reach.

“You lay one hand on him, and I will personally cut off your cock, and stuff it into your mouth.” Uhtred growls out, barely hiding the shudder of rage that courses through him. They can do whatever they want to him, but if they hurt Ronan, neither the King or his guardsman will make it out of this alive.

Visions of a similar event arises in Uhtred’s mind…when Aelfric took Finan, and he instantly feels sick to his stomach.

“Let him go!” Uhtred growls out between clenched teeth.

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

Steapa shakes his head. “Not that easily.”

Stepping a little closer, Steapa looks into Uhtred’s eyes.

“All of this can be resolved. All of it… but you refuse to submit. You refuse to address him with respect, and acknowledge your bond…

Unfortunately for you, Lord, the King will have you willingly, or as a prisoner. He won’t live his last years without you. He was to let you reside here, in Bebbanburg… but not without you sworn to him once more. So we are in route to Wessex at dawn. Don’t worry… the Prince will be joining us as well. He’ll just be with me.” Steapa chuckles.

“I can’t wait for him to see our lands.”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

“I will never submit to him…” Uhtred growls out. “I will never acknowledge a bond, because there is no bond. The only bond I have is the one I share with my husband.”

“I will never be what he wants me to be…he will never have what Finan has.” Uhtred roars as he glares daggers at Steapa. “I will never let him touch me…”

“I have already given him too much of my life. Too much for someone who valued me so little. I will not swear myself to him again. He is not my King.”

“Ronan belongs here. In Bebbanburg. With his husband.” Uhtred seethes his head shaking as a mirthless smile comes to his face. “None of this is going to bode well for either of you, when Björn Ironside finds you. Not to mention, the Northman’s father.”

A cocky look comes to Uhtred’s eyes, refusing to be intimidated by the King and his guard. “Dawn might be too late for you…You’re crazy if you think our men aren’t already on your trail. They will find him…”

Please, Finan…find your son. Save him.

I’m so sorry this happened…

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

“He was married, hm?” Steapa asks, cocking his head. A smirk comes across his face as Uhtred glares at him.

“Suit yourself, Lord. A few of my men here might be able to change your mind…”

Steapa leaves the room then, a few of Alfred’s men joining in his place. Some to keep watch, and others to coerce him with force.

[askuhtredragnarson]

“He was…to a man worthy of him. A Northman, who will happily end your life for taking him from him.” Uhtred glares at Steapa. He only wishes he could be there to bear witness to the Northman’s wrath against the Kingsguard.

“They can try, but my resolve will not waver.” Uhtred glares at the other men coming into the cottage. Their hair wet from the rain that has just started falling outside.

“I will not submit to him…” Uhtred yells at Steapa’s retreating back. Before turning his attention to the other guardsmen. A cocky smile coming to his face despite the rage drumming under his skin. He will not show weakness to these cowards. Even as the first man lays a punch to his stomach, Uhtred hides his pain behind a laugh.

“Is that all you’ve got?” The Dane taunts the men. They could knock him senseless, and he still won’t give into their demands. He belongs to one man, and one man only. Finan.

The King will never get that which he desire. Uhtred will never be a willing participant.

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

“Enough!!” Alfred shouts as he reenters the room. He shews the guardsmen away, taking a look at the bloodied lip Uhtred sustained. Thankfully, they left his face otherwise unmarred.

“Take him to my chamber. Leave his wrists and ankles bound,” Alfred orders them.

The Saxons quickly work to take the Dane’s ankles up in chains, letting each of his wrists loose before securing them again with irons in front of him. They drag Uhtred along with them until they reach a room, a chamber set up for the King as regally as possible. The put Uhtred into a chair forcefully, taking more chains to secure his wrists to the armrests.

“Leave us,” Alfred commands. He picks up a vial from the table, taking some of the liquid onto his finger and then onto Uhtred’s bottom lip at the Dane’s absolute revolt.

“Relax. Give in to it.” Alfred says, running his hand up Uhtred’s arm. The tonic he gave up will make his body feel limp, his mind a bit more pliable.

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred raises his hanging head at Alfred’s shout. His tongue darting out to the cut on his lip tasting the blood. Alfred’s men have done a number on him, but thankfully nothing is broken. He shakes his head, a cocky look in his eyes as his breaths come out in pants. He imagines bruises are flaring out on his chest and stomach from the blows, but he still won’t submit.

The Saxons remove his boots and quickly fashion chains on the Dane’s ankles. The weight of them reminding him of other chains from a time long ago.

This will not break me…

Uhtred focuses his mind on his love, on Finan. Seeing the Irishman’s face in his thoughts strengthens his resolve. Gives purpose to the pain flaring out in his chest. His bond with Finan helped him survive the Trader, it will help him survive this.

As the men lower his arms replacing the chains on his wrists, Uhtred feels the blood rushing down to his hands as a tingling feeling takes over. The numbness he was starting to feel from their raised position, now uncomfortable as they start to wake. Uhtred nearly stumbles as the men drag him into another room, a chambers fit for a King, a stark difference to the rest of the cottage. He swallows back a knot in his throat at the large bed looming in the center of the room, thankful when the men take him to a chair instead. But not without a struggle. Ignoring the pain in his torso, Uhtred tries to pull out of their hold, but just like in the forest, there are too many of them.

Once he’s been properly secured, the men leave at their King’s behest and Uhtred’s attention shifts to Alfred. He feels his stomach drop at the vial in Alfred’s hands, recalling again the tonic his love was given at the hands of his uncle. Uhtred tries to turn his face away, but it doesn’t stop the King from running his finger across his bottom lip. He tries to spit out whatever the concoction is, but he fears it has already started absorbing into his blood stream.

“What do you hope to gain by this?” Uhtred challenges. “I will not give into it.” Goosebumps prickle at the King’s touch across his arm as a shiver runs down his spine.

“I will not betray my husband…” Uhtred seethes as he glares at the King.

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

“I don’t think that’s true,” Alfred says softly, running his hands across Uhtred’s shoulders.

“I think… you’ve thought about it. Especially in the marshes. When you were in Coccham. All those times we shared in Wessex when your children were young…” he says. He kneels before the Dane, bringing his fingers to the laces of his breeches and toying with them, not yet unlacing. He comes closer to Uhtred, placing a soft kiss on his lips, loving the soft suppleness of them.

“Is that what I’ve been missing?” He asks, whispering against his lips.

“Perhaps I should have them unchain you. I have no doubt you would behave now.”

Standing from his knelt position, the King takes Uhtred’s chin.

“Whatever you had with the Irishman… is over.”

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred bristles at the King’s hands on his shoulders. “Then you are delusional…” the Dane mutters out.

The King’s reminiscing about a time long ago stirs no feelings within the Dane. At least not the feeling he expects. Sure they spent time together, and at one time him might have considered Alfred a friend, but never nothing more than that. Not when his heart already belonged to another.

When the King’s hands rest at the laces of his breeches, Uhtred tries to shift away, but his legs and arms are starting to feel heavy, and he can barely move them. He growls in frustration, feeling a haziness in his head like his thoughts are becoming fuzzy. He tries to turn his head away from Alfred’s kiss, but his movements are becoming slow. It irks him that he can wipe the moisture from the kiss from his lips.

“It was never yours to miss…” Uhtred utters out, his eyes glaring even though it feels like they are playing tricks on him. “My cock will not rise for you…I have no desire in my body to be touched by you.”

“It’s not over…he is my husband. The love of my life.” Uhtred growls defiantly. He closes his eyes as the room starts spinning. He can feel his heart pounding in his chest as the tonic pulls him further under it’s spell.

“I will not give you what you want…” It becomes a mantra in Uhtred’s head as he tries desperately to fight the effect of the tonic.

@alfredofwessex69

[alfredofwessex69]

“Oh, you will, my dear. I don’t care if it takes days… months, years. You will not be returning to Bebbanburg, and the more you fight it, the more exhausted you’ll be.”

Leaving and returning with some men, Alfred orders them to unchain Uhtred from the chair, and carry him to the bed.

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Following the route the best he can, Finan leads his guardsmen through the dark, Ragnar at his side on his horse. It’s been hours by now, and Finan’s mind is reeling. The love of his life, and his baby. Alfred had single handedly hurt every person he truly loved now, and he was finished with it. He should have killed the King when Revna was taken, and now… he regrets not doing it with his entire soul.

Along the way, the Irishman gives coin generously to villagers who can say whether or not they had witnessed something, and as they come in contact with watchmen from Wessex, they threaten them with their lives to get them to talk. Between Finan and Ragnar, their ruthlessness is palpable and quite effective throughout the travel, but the hours long journey starts to make the Irishman worry.

“What happens if I kill him?” He drawls to Ragnar lowly. When the Viking shrugs and gives him a teasing smirk, Finan smiles.

It’s settled in his mind. He will kill every last one of them, if needed. He prays that Revna and Bjorn had some luck with their own search. Finan can’t handle even the thought of them not finding his son, nor does he let his mind waiver to thoughts of his husband being long gone. Never.

One of Revna’s ravens had stopped in on them throughout the night, seemingly leading them in the right direction or correcting forks in the road. He disappeared for a while, but when he returns, the raven’s caws lead Finan to a turn of direction that leads them all to the very edge of a Saxon settlement and camp. Thankfully… it’s nighttime, so they could attack most of them with the element of surprise. He looks at Ragnar with furrowed brows, perhaps in a question of guidance before he does something crazy like Bjorn stated earlier.

@askuhtredragnarson @lagertha-lothbrok

[askuhtredragnarson]

Uhtred makes a feeble attempt to shake his head no. “I’m not going anywhere with you…my husband will find me. You should pray to your God for a swift death…”

He can feel himself getting weaker as his limbs feel like dead weight. Uhtred tries to focus on Finan, to give him strength. When he opens his eyes, for a moment he sees the Irishman before him. He feels hope flare out in his chest, but the image is blurry at the edges and quickly fades being replaced by Alfred standing before him.

As the men unchain him to be moved to the bed, he can barely feel it. Only the touch on his skin while everything else feels numb. Uhtred lets out a groan as they lift him from the chair. He wants to fight, as he grits his teeth, but his body won’t cooperate. He is at their mercy as they roughly manhandle him onto the furs.

“I will not give you what you want….” Uhtred repeats, barely above a whisper.

@alfredofwessex69

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar sits on his horse, running his hand through his beard as they look upon the settlement and camp. He can see guards milling about, while he assumes the rest have retired for the night. The pitch black of the sky offers them a good cover, and he’s sure they could kill most of them before an alarm is even raised, but once it is time is of the essence. Glancing back, the Northman smiles at the large number of men who have joined them in their search.

“…if an alarm sounds, will they kill your Lord?” Ragnar asks the Irishman as he glances over at him.

“We need to find where he is held, before we rush in blindly. Our force can easily decimated them…but it will be for naught if they kill Uhtred.” he comments as more men join their ranks, having heard of the Lord’s capture. He gives a nod to Lagertha sitting not far behind them on her white horse.

The raven flys overhead towards a cottage sitting off in the distance. Ragnar taps Finan’s shoulder before pointing at the majestic bird landing in the thatch of the cottage. 

“There…” Ragnar nods towards the raven. “Perhaps we should take a closer look?” He asks as he looks into Finan’s eyes.

Ragnar motions Lagertha forward, and when she sides her horse between the two men, Ragnar gives her a little smirk. He can already feel the drum of battle in his blood as an almost giddy feeling comes over him. He shakes it off as a serious look comes over his face.

“The Irishman and I are going to sneak over there and investigate the cottage…” he motions with his head. “You stand at the ready to lead our men to battle…wipe all of them out…”

“Once we have Lord Uhtred secured…I’m sure the raven will let you know when it’s time.” Ragnar gives the Shieldmaiden a playful smile. 

“In the meantime, have the men surround the settlement…”

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[alfredofwessex69]

“He stabbed you in the arm,” Alfred says, more of a statement than a question as he glares in Steapa’s direction with an expressionless gaze.

“A teenager.”

“Yes, Lord King…” Steapa replies, making a show of the still festering gash at his forearm, rolling up his sleeve as if to justify why their plan to retrieve Uhtred had failed.

“It was simple. Was it not?” Alfred asks, quite sternly.

“Yes, Lord, but…”

“What about this is so difficult to achieve? I’ve given you autonomy, and you still fail to provide results.”

“I can make another attempt, Lord.” Steapa nods, trying to demonstrate his fealty. “The injury has been harsh, but I can endeavor further… give me the chance, and I’ll prove it.”

“Then you will. And you’ll succeed. The opposite does not bode well for you.”

****

Time passes with a still healing forearm wound at Steapa’s left arm, and it’s been weeks or more since the failed siege on Bebbanburg. Him and his men tread lightly, camping in sights surrounding the fortress and making sure to stay clear of the main paths through the village. It was clearly more fortified now, Uhtred and Finan’s guardsmen prowling the streets and locations much more heavily. Stumbling across one of their watchmen, the Kingsguard offers him a friendly smile and waves him down, taking a chance for a hopeful opportunity.

As the man approaches, Steapa nods to him, taking a very large bag of silver from his saddle bags.

“An offer for you, and payment in full…”

“For… what, exactly?” The watchmen asks, his brows furrowed.

“I am your commander now.”

@bjornironsideviking @revnashieldmaiden

[revnashieldmaiden]

Walking through the forest just outside the walls of the fortress with my husband next to me, I search for medicinal plants. I can sense a storm quickly approaching, hence the warmer day. I know it won’t be long before the ground is covered in snow and the plants snuffed out until spring returns. I’m hoping to stock up on plenty of peppermint and ginger to get me through the worst of the morning sickness until I get further along in my pregnancy and the symptoms finally let up. So far I have been managing quite well, but my supply is quickly dwindling.

“Oh…look,” I grin as I see a large patch of the wild growing peppermint. Kneeling down I gather as much of the leaves as possible, stuffing them into my satchel. Finan is right beside me helping. “This will help immensely.” I look into my husband’s eyes.

Once the patch of plants has been stripped of it’s leaves, Finan and I resume our leisurely walk through the forest. I love having these moments alone with my husband. Holding his strong hand and feeling the love and excitement of our new pup radiating between us.

Glancing up, I notice my raven companions circling over head as an odd feeling comes over me. Usually I only see one or the other, not both of them together. Huginn and Muninn, I affectionately call them, after Odin’s ravens. I often wonder if it is truly the great All-father’s ravens watching over me, especially with how they alert me to danger.

“That is odd…” I softly mention, giving Finan a concerned glance as I motion to the black birds. “Perhaps we should head back to the fortress…”

@thedarkprinceofulaid @alfredofwessex69

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Finan smiles at his wife’s determination, assisting her with gathering everything they can find. He wants to crouch down and do all of it for her to dote on her, but he reminds himself that she enjoys the process of foraging.

“A beautiful day for a beautiful woman…” the Irishman muses, taking a hand to your cheek for a soft kiss. Gods, his wife’s skin is glowing, and her presence uplifts him like nothing else can. He snickers, just out of love and happiness as he follows his wife.

Following his wife’s gaze up to the sky, Finan stops in his tracks. If there’s anything he truly believes in, it’s his wife’s intuition, and the ravens that watch over her faithfully. He instinctively wraps an arm around your waist, pulling you closer to him.

“You think it’s a bad omen?” Finan asks.

@revnashieldmaiden

[revnashieldmaiden]

“I-I’m not sure…” I glance up at the ravens as they continue their circling. Finan’s arm around me gives me comfort, but it doesn’t quite settle this uneasy feeling inside me. “I usually only see one or the other, and they just perch in a tree, silently watching me.”

“…but today they seem agitated. Like maybe they sense something amiss.” I look into Finan’s eyes with worry in mine.

My first thoughts go to our children. Tora has been a little fussy lately, but I think it’s more from growing pains. Ronan is most likely spending time with his husband, so I can’t imagine anything being amiss there. Especially with how happy they have been. Winter is quickly approaching, so outside threats should be dissipating, at least until the weather warms in the spring.

Would anyone be foolish enough to try something when a winter storm is practically on our doorstep? I would like to think not, but then one can’t be too cautious.

“I’m sure if it’s anything, they will let us know…” I nod towards the birds, trying to decipher what might be going on with them as the pit in my stomach grows. 

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

The Irishman feels a shudder down his spine just at the sight of the black birds circling in the sky. He bites the inside of his lip, gathering a few more herbs and glancing up at the ravens every so often.

“You think you have enough darling? We can propagate some mint…” Finan says, kneeling down and taking up some of the plant by its root. He can at least gather some dirt and grow some inside the windows should his wife need it in the future weeks and months.

“Revna… let’s go. Back home. I feel uneasy,” the Irishman drawls, hearing the Ravens cawing. He takes your hand to his bicep, leading you into a stride up the path back to the fortress.

@revnashieldmaiden

[revnashieldmaiden]

“Thank you, my love…” I softly say as Finan gathers some of the plants, a start to an herb garden. Glancing up at the ravens I feel my stomach churning with thoughts as to why they are acting so strangely.

“Yes…let’s go.” I agree with my husband. I can see the unease in his eyes mirroring my own. Something is wrong, I just wish I could decipher what. Placing my hand on Finan’s bicep, I stride with him back to the fortress, anxious to check on our children and our family.

“Please…tell me what is wrong.” I whisper as I look up to the sky, beseeching my guardians to give me a sign.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

As the two of you enter the fortress, Finan’s very first thought is your daughter.

“Lagertha!” He calls out lowly. The Shieldmaiden had been watching Tora while you and Finan went foraging, and his heart is racing as the two of you step through the Hall. When the Shieldmaiden finally shows herself with Tora on her hip, he lets out a shuddering breath of relief.

“Oh thank the Gods,” Finan sighs. He shares a look with you of relief, but he’s still perplexed at whatever could be the matter. He takes Tora into his arms, bouncing her up and down, and then it finally hits him.

Uhtred went hunting.

Handing Tora to you, the Irishman feels a chill run through his bones.

“Every man to the ground,” he tells Lagertha.

“Find your son and mine. Somethin’ is wrong…

Revna, stay here baby. Don’t leave the hall or the ramparts… keep Tora close.”

@revnashieldmaiden @lagertha-lothbrok

[revnashieldmaiden]

Striding into the Hall, my heart feels frantic as Finan calls out to Lagertha, needing to assure myself that our daughter is alright. When the Shieldmaiden shows herself with Tora on her hip, and our little girl is all smiles, I breathe a sigh of relief. However it still doesn’t ease this unsettled feeling within me.

When Finan takes Tora in his arms, I place a gentle kiss on her cheek amid her giggles of happiness. I share a look with my husband relieved that our daughter is alright. I immediately feel the shift in Finan when he suddenly hands me Tora, as if something just gave him a chill.

I look at him in confusion when he gives Lagertha orders, feeling my heart pounding in my chest again. As the Shieldmaiden nods without question and turns to stride out of the hall, I look at Finan with fear in my eyes.

“Finan…what is it?” I grab my husband’s arm looking at him beseechingly as I cradle Tora close to my chest.

I shake my head at his request. If something is wrong, if there is a chance someone in our family is in danger or is hurt, I need to be there. I need to help.

“Please, Finan…don’t make me stay behind…”

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Finan sighs, looking at you pleadingly with his big brown eyes.

“Alright… stay close.”

He runs his fingertips through his hair a few times, his mind calculating. When did Uhtred even leave? He remembers the Dane telling him this morning that he would be going on a hunt, but Finan was so preoccupied with Tora’s growing pains that he’d decided not to offer to join, and he can’t remember any of the details. Not a single one…

Damnit.

“Agh…” he groans. “Uhtred went out huntin’, and it’s nearly dark. I have a very bad feelin’ about this. Follow Lagertha and fetch Ronan and Björn. All of you meet me at the stables.”

@revnashieldmaiden

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Lagertha strides out of the hall, unsettled by the look in the Irishman’s eyes. She calls out to the guardsmen Finan’s order that all of them be to ground. Something is amiss.

Walking through the gate to head to the village to fetch her and Finan’s son, she is surprised to see Björn striding up the path towards her, a near grimace on his face in the fading light of the day.

“I shouldn’t have let him go…” her son utters under his breath as he strides past her into the fortress. She turns around to follow him, grabbing Björn’s arm to stop him.

“What is going on? What’s wrong?” Lagertha looks in her son’s eyes seeing a pained look within them.

“Has Lord Uhtred returned yet?” Björn asks pointedly.

When Lagertha shakes her head no with a confused look on her face, her stomach drops when her son’s face falls. “Why?”

“Ronan is with him…he said they’d be back before dark.”

@revnashieldmaiden @thedarkprinceofulaid

[lagertha-lothbrok]

“Ragnar,” Finan drawls, coming closer and taking the Northman’s arm.

“Thank you for that. That was very kind of you to offer such a gesture to bind our families.

The prince is right. You may stay here until the Spring,” he says.

If you can maintain respect …

“Please… join me, Revna and our Lord for a drink.”

@thedarkprinceofulaid

“It’s the least I could do, to honor the joining of our families…” Ragnar glances at Revna, giving her a solemn nod. His fondness for the shieldmaiden showing in his eyes. “Your wife holds a special place in my heart, her father and mother were dear to me, and I miss them greatly. Honoring Ronan in this way, is almost like honoring them. I see the love Revna has for you and Ronan, you are both her family…and now through marriage, mine as well.” He gives Finan a little nod, a seriousness to his tone.

“I appreciate it…” Ragnar softly says as the Irishman gives his assent for him to remain in Bebbanburg until Spring. The Northman brings his hand up to tug on his beard. “…I have no desire to cause problems for Lagertha with my presence here. I just want to spend time with my son…both of them.” He lips curl into a little smile.

“I will be on my…best behavior…” Ragnar gives the Irishman a playful smirk as they walk towards the Hall.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Finan nods at Ragnar’s words, an eyebrow arching at them. Ragnar is so mysterious, so aloof that his words are surprising to the Irishman. When he speaks of Lagertha, he’d practically read Finan’s mind.

“Mhm…” he hums, interrupted by the prince when he runs up to him and tells him that he and the Northman will be heading back to their cottage before the celebrations to change into comfortable clothes.

“That’s fine.” Finan smirks, giving the Northman a distant nod from afar. He chuckles when Ronan practically skips off.

“Gods, he takes after his mother... I swear…” Finan jests, pinching Revna’s side. He drapes his arm over her side, leading her and the others inside the Hall.

“Ragnar, please help yerself to anything. And please take one of the free cottages if you haven’t already.”

Finan jumps aside, taking his Dane’s hand and giving it a kiss as he looks into his eyes. “A little bird told me what you did for the newlyweds…” he grins. “Thank you for that, beloved.”

@askuhtredragnarson @lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar consider’s Finan’s offer of a cottage, but with no woman or man to keep him company, he thinks he’d prefer to stay in the Hall. The chambers he has been sleeping in for the last few weeks have been comfortable enough. Besides, being in the Hall reminds him of home with all the people coming and going. Even though, every time he sees Revna walk past he has to do a double take.

“If you don’t mind, I’d prefer to stay here…the chambers I’ve been staying in provides me all the comfort I need. Perhaps I can be of assistance, should the need ever arise.” Ragnar offers.

He has heard through the conversations of the people in the village and the fortress that even though this place was Uhtred’s birthright, he is new to the lordship here, having only recently vanquished his cousin to claim the fortress. And already they have been attacked by the King of Wessex’s men. He can’t help but be curious of the King’s interest in the Lord of Bebbanburg. Seems he would have lands closer to his kingdom to conquer before he sets his sights so far North.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[askuhtredragnarson]

When Finan takes his hand, Uhtred gives his husband a playful smirk. It was so mesmerizing watching Finan perform the ceremony for Björn and his son. It brought back so many memories of their special day, he swears he felt the buzz in the air of the Gods walking amongst them, honoring the young men’s union.

“What little bird?” Uhtred looks around the Hall in mock confusion, a barely contained laugh bubbling from his chest.

Pulling Finan against him and giving him a proper kiss, Uhtred’s lips curl into a smile. “You’re welcome, baby…it’s the least I could do. My gift for them to make their night special. Although I doubt it’ll hold a candle to our special night. I lost count how many times…” he stops, seeing the blush rise on his husband’s cheeks.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Quirking an eyebrow at Ragnar’s request to stay in the Hall, Finan defers to Uhtred.

“Uh, yeah. If it’s alright with Lord Uhtred then it’s fine with me… absolutely.” …

The Irishman grins instantly at Uhtred’s billowing laugh. Music to his ears.

“A little baby monk bird…” Finan snickers as the Dane pulls him in for a kiss. He feels a little bashful in front of Ragnar, but he doesn’t mind his Dane marking his territory.

“Shh shh…” Finan hushes him, giving him another kiss as he blushes.

“Don’t even try to count,” the Irishman whispers to his ear, giving it a little bite. He grins again when the Dane’s hand travels down his back, giving his arse a little squeeze.

“He wants to stay in the Hall,” Finan tells Uhtred as they walk hand in hand, nodding towards Ragnar.

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

“Damn it, Osferth…so much for keeping it a secret…” Uhtred feigns a pointed glare in the baby monk’s direction, before a smirk curls his lips. He shouldn’t be surprised that his little secret got out, since he had Osferth gather the petals for him. The Dane lets out a chuckle as he shakes his head.

As Finan hushes him from revealing how many times they pleasured each other, Uhtred lets out another laugh. “You know…I could ask Revna if she has Tessa’s recipe for you know what…” Uhtred says in a conspiring tone, letting out a little cough in lieu of the words. “Would make for an interesting night for the young lovers…or perhaps we’ll keep that as our little secret.” Uhtred gives Finan a mischievous wink.

A thrill runs through Uhtred as Finan bites his ear, heat traveling down his body as his hand trails down the Irishman’s back to squeeze his arse. “Careful there, baby…” Uhtred whispers in a husky tone. “…or it won’t be just the newlyweds seeing some action tonight.” The Dane gives his husband a challenging arch of his eyebrow.

When Finan mentions that Ragnar wants to stay in the Hall, Uhtred gives the Northman a surprised look. “Oh..uh, sure…there are plenty of chambers on the lower levels of the Hall. All comfortably furnished. It would be an honor having the legendary Ragnar Lothbrok staying in Bebbanburg.

Maybe it’ll scare away some of our enemies…” Uhtred chuckles.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

“Uhtred! No! I will not be a bad influence… more than I already have,” Finan laughs.

“Our little secret.”

The Irishman smiles at Uhtred’s words to Ragnar, agreeing with him.

“It’s true… we have some enemies. But we welcome your presence here,” he agrees.

“Now, come. Everyone let us eat and drink…” the Irishman rings out. He lets Uhtred lead them into the Great Hall, taking a seat beside his husband as he takes his own seat at the head of the table. His wife sits beside him, and the others file in one by one.

“So, um… do you have any questions for us? About us, or anything in particular?” Finan asks genuinely, looking into Ragnar’s eyes.

@lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Taking a seat across from the Irishman and Revna, Ragnar cocks an eyebrow at Finan’s question. Sure there are many things he has yet to learn about the Irishman and his family. Like the story of how Revna came to be apart of their family. He never trusted her brothers and he was saddened when he learned that his best-friend’s daughter had left with them to join the Danes that settled here.

He can’t help but be curious as to how the Irishman was able to get his ex-wife to be a willing participant with someone who shares his love with multiple people. Ragnar smiles ruefully when he considers that it wasn’t the idea of multiple lovers that caused Lagertha to leave him, but more so the person. It wasn’t uncommon for them to invite others into their bed, but with Aslaug it was different. He could sense the immediate dislike between the two women, and now looking back he understands it. Regrettably so.

But the thing that stands at the forefront of his mind is the situation with the King of Wessex and his men’s attack on the village. He can’t help but be concerned given his ex-wife and sons call that village their home.

After placing some food on his plate, Ragnar glances at both Uhtred and Finan curious as to what their response might be to his questions.

“I can’t help but be curious as to why the King of Wessex would attempt to attack so far North, when there are other lands closer to his to conquer? What is his interest in Bebbanburg…or should I say who?” He raises an eyebrow inquiringly as he glances between the two Lords.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Damn, where do I even start with that…

“Uh, well…” Finan shares a look with his Lord, before bringing his gaze back to Ragnar.

“He’s hurt us greatly, in a number of manipulating ways of various severity. My Lord was Alfred’s oathman at one time, for many years. They shared a… connection,” Finan says, almost regrettably at the sound of it falling from his lips.

“Through a very unfortunate series of tribulations, he is now our sworn enemy, but he really can’t get Uhtred out of his mind. He has regrets, and just enough ego to act without a single rational thought. So he very swiftly takes every chance to win Uhtred’s favor, but he does so by hurtin’ those around him, and it only drives the wedge deeper,” Finan says.

“He wants Uhtred to forgive him. To give him another chance… but it only gets worse as the King tries to gain that favor by force,” he continues.

“There are other men that seem to have lost their way alongside him.”

@lagertha-lothbrok

[askuhtredragnarson]

Reaching his hand across the table, Uhtred gently places it over Finan’s as he explains to the Northman their troubles with the King of Wessex. That word, connection, not sitting right with him. Maybe at one time he had seen Alfred’s vision of a untied England, but that vision has become so twisted and mangled in the King’s pursuit of it.

“I was blinded by a sense of honor and reputation, not seeing what it was the King truly sought. Even now, I can’t wrap my head around the idea that he holds some kind of affection towards me. An affection I don’t return.

He took away my wife, made me think that she had passed in childbirth. For years I had mourned her death, only to find out later that she was very much alive. I see now that he did it because he was hoping that I would seek his comfort, that it would bring us closer together.

Last Spring he had Revna taken, to my husband’s homeland.” Uhtred glances at Revna and Finan, a sorrowful look in his eyes. “He did it under the guise of securing an alliance with the King of Ulaid for the upcoming war with the North, but really, he did it in hopes that Finan would be killed by his brother. Thus removing another obstacle to his affections for me.”

Uhtred shakes his head, the heaviness of everything weighing at his heart. “I fear Alfred won’t stop in his pursuit of me…” the Dane solemnly says as he glances in his loved ones eyes.

@lagertha-lothbrok @thedarkprinceofulaid

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar nods in understanding, seeing the pain the King has caused both of these men. He can sense the guilt Lord Uhtred holds in his heart being the reason of so much strife for his family.

“At one time, I thought I could trust the King of Wessex. He offered my people land to settle, but as soon as me and my warriors left, he had them all killed. Wiping out the entire village of farmers…women and children.

I kept it a secret…” Ragnar shakes his head regretfully.

“My ambitions had shifted to Paris…my desire to raid a new land with the promise of untold riches. I knew if my people found out what had happened to the settlement in Wessex they would seek revenge. They would seek to kill the King of Wessex…” Ragnar leans back in his chair, his hand coming up to tug on his beard.

“Perhaps I should have let them…” He cocks an eyebrow at the two Lords, before huffing out a breath.

“Alfred and I shared a connection with someone I cared deeply for…we would often have discussions about the differences in our faiths and Gods. I had considered him a friend at one point. Until he betrayed me…” 

There is a flash of something in Ragnar’s deep blue eyes as he glances at those around him. Maybe a flash of heartache, of pain, or perhaps the longing of a lost love.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

“… this is a new life for us,” Finan speaks up.

“No one can penetrate this fortress. Acquiring Bebbanburg was our dream for years in the makin’, and now that we have it, a siege doesn’t stand a chance. You can be assured of that. The only reason that Björn and Ronan settled outside the fortress is because my teenager bloody insisted on it for days. And the only reason I agreed is because Lagertha is not far… So… there’s that,” the Irishman chuckles, taking a sip of ale.

“I’m not worried about Alfred. Not anymore. We have over a thousand loyal men here. He can gawk all he wants.”

Finan appraises the look in Ragnar’s eyes, seeing something deeper, perhaps something he can regretfully relate to.

[ronanofulaid]

“Who’s gawkin’?” The prince asks as he and his husband finally arrive at their own celebrations, Björn led by his hand.

“Alfred,” Finan answers.

“He may look, but…” he wags his eyebrows at Uhtred, about to finish his sentence until Björn pinches his side and he snickers.

“I think I’ll sit next to you,” Ronan tells Ragnar with a beaming smile, pouring wine before he can even take a seat.

“Hey, hey, easy on that…” Finan protests in his deep brogue.

“What is this, a monastery? Jesus,” the prince snaps back with a laugh, as Finan gives Ragnar a knowing look and a smirk telling him that he may see the prince’s real personality tonight.

@lagertha-lothbrok @bjornironsideviking

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar holds his mug up to his new son-in-law to be topped off, chuckling at the young man’s words.

“…a monastery would have better wine.” Ragnar says teasingly under his breath before quickly taking a sip from the mug.

“Hey!” Uhtred mock glares at the older Northman. “We would have better wine, if these two would quit stealing it.” Uhtred cocks his head at the younger men joining the table with an accusing look on his face.

Ragnar chuckles louder, tapping his mug with Ronan.

“Ahh…let them celebrate…” Ragnar says to the older Irishman. “If they drink too much, then it’ll be an early night for them.” He glances at his son with an eyebrow arched teasingly. Björn might be a virile young man, but even he might not withstand the effects of imbibing too much.

Clearing his throat as a seriousness comes over his face, Ragnar looks across the table at Finan. “In any event, if the King of Wessex tries to come knocking…or anyone for that matter, you have my sword at your disposal. I will do anything I can to protect my family. Including you, my best-friend’s son-in-law.” Ragnar gives Revna a little nod at a tender smile comes to his face.

@thedarkprinceofulaid @ronanofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Finan’s eyebrows perk up at Ragnar’s words, and he shares a look with Revna for a split second.

“… thank you, Ragnar.” The Irishman drawls, giving the Northman a nod and a smile.

“I would say the same for you. Yer son saved my life in my last battle… without hesitation. I think of that often. When I gave him permission to wed my own kin, it was ringin’ in my head. I’m so proud of the man he is, and uh… I will do anything to protect my family, as well.” Finan says, gesturing his hands toward everyone sitting at the table.

@lagertha-lothbrok

[ronanofulaid]

Passing some food to his husband and pouring another half glass of wine, Ronan gives Björn a wink, grinning at Uhtred’s comment about them stealing wine, then giving him a subtle kiss on the cheek when Finan mentions Björn saving his life. It was something that didn’t escape Ronan’s mind either, and he muses on it for a minute while he pours another for Ragnar.

“Do you find us as exotic as we find you?” Ronan asks Ragnar.

@bjornironsideviking @lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar quirks an eyebrow at Ronan’s question taking another sip of his wine.

He gives a little shrug of his shoulders, “Your accent is a little different than I’m used to…having spent more time around the Saxons and Danes.” the Northman grins.

“I know the Gods you worship are different than ours…different even from the Christian God my friend told me about. We celebrate the seasons much like your people, just with different customs.”

“So…yes, I’d say I find you a bit exotic….” Ragnar gives the prince a wink.

Leaning back in his chair, the Northman gives Ronan an inquisitive look. “…and what brought you and my son together?”

@ronanofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

The prince shows the Northman an excited smile at his words, intently listening to them with his chin resting in his hand. There was something about the way he spoke. He lingered on syllables, and his eyes punctuated his words with interesting looks, like a storyteller. Ronan furrows his brows, still smiling at his father in law as his own accent reminds him so much of his husband’s.

“I was still in Ulaid when Revna was taken hostage by my uncle… my Da met Björn and Lagertha, and they agreed to join forces with him against my homeland for Revna’s sake. When my father left for Bebbanburg, I joined him. He practically brought Björn to me, but it didn’t happen instantly,” Ronan tells Ragnar with a smile.

“And ehm… well, I had a dream about him. Many dreams about him. I see things before they happen, sometimes…” Ronan says, sharing a look with his Mum, because he still doesn’t know quite how to describe it.

“I dreamt about him before I saw him on the battlefield, and I dreamt about him the night before I introduced myself to him. He’s my destiny… my soulmate. I was in love with him from the moment we met, but I didn’t tell him…” the prince snickers, sharing a look with Björn.

@lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar listens intently to Ronan, glancing briefly at Revna when the prince tells about her abduction and subsequent rescue. He gives her a little tilt of his head, curious about all she has been through since she left their homeland. When the young Irishman mentions that he has dreams, that he sees things before they happen, it instantly piques the warrior’s attention.

“You’re a seer?” Ragnar asks in surprise seeing the look Ronan exchanges with the shieldmaiden.

“We had a seer in our village…in Kattegat. He communed with the Gods and had visions. He foretold I would have many sons…which I did.” Ragnar smirks as his looks at his oldest son.

“He also told Lagertha that she would bear no more children…” Ragnar softly says, a hint of sadness in his voice as he glances down the table at his ex-wife. “Sadly that vision has held true as well. She miscarried while we were in Paris…if she would have heeded my advice…” Ragnar utters under his breath shaking his head. He still wants to believe that maybe she wouldn’t have lost her pup, if she wouldn’t have pushed herself so hard physically.

Ragnar smiles fondly seeing the exchange of looks between Ronan and his son. He can see clear as day the love they have for each other.

“Soulmates…” The Northman raises his mug in a toast.

@ronanofulaid @thedarkprinceofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

“Yeah… I suppose that’s what I am,” Ronan nods, listening to Ragnar’s musings. The prince tries not to tell people what he sees when he speaks to them. If anything, he tries to push it away and focus on them as they’re speaking. But Ragnar mentioning his sons brings chaos to his mind, a destiny of strife, surely. He can see their faces, the sometimes bitterness between them.

As he listens to Ragnar, the prince glances to his father, finding him intently listening as well. People are picking at their food, all the more interested in the conversation, and that’s a rarity.

Ronan raises his mug as Ragnar does, echoing his words.

“Soulmates…”

He turns his head and nuzzles his nose with his husband’s, his dark eyes telling Björn something unspoken.

I think he likes me!

@lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Looking across the table, Ragnar watches the smiles exchanged and the loving touches between Finan and Revna. A smirk comes to his face as he good-naturedly shakes his head. He never imagined his best friend’s daughter would have fallen in love with an Irishman.

“So, you never did tell me how you two met?” He looks into the Irishman’s eyes, the curiosity shining in his. He sees the smile curl Revna’s lips as she bows her head before looking at her husband.

Ragnar can’t help but stare a moment longer at the shieldmaiden, sensing something different about her, but he can’t quite put his finger on it. It’s almost like she’s glowing.

“I knew Revna and my son were close growing up, but it’s interesting how they both somehow followed similar paths….falling in love with Irishmen.” Ragnar flashes Revna and Björn a playful little smirk.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

“Mm, well…” Finan smirks, taking his wife’s hand and fondling her fingers.

“She crashed into my life one day on the road back to my settlement in Wessex, and I have never… been… the same,” the Irishman smiles, at Ragnar and then at Revna with a twinkle in his dark eyes.

“I had to have her. Even still, I have that feelin’. Right, gorgeous?” Finan teases, pinching Revna’s side as he takes his arm around her. He’s not sure how comfortable she is giving all of the details to Ragnar, so he offers him a few, giving her time to decide how and what she wants to tell him out of protectiveness for her.

“In all seriousness, she was injured. I found her on the road to Coccham, where we lived at the time, and she fit into our family like its own missin’ piece. She healed from her injuries, and she absolutely changed my life from then on. She’s my angel,” Finan says, squeezing his wife’s hand.

“Everyone who knows me, knows that I am not myself without her by my side.”

@revnashieldmaiden

[revnashieldmaiden]

A slight blush colors my cheeks at Ragnar’s question, and with it the memories of a time I had long buried. Only a couple people know about the events leading up to my rescue by the most handsome Irishman I had ever laid eyes on. I still get that warm fuzzy feeling in my stomach when I recall him holding me close and speaking to me in that Irish brogue that captivated me from the moment I heard it.

“I was prepared to enter the halls of Valhalla, but instead, the Gods sent me a savior. From the moment I heard his voice, saw his beautiful dark eyes, I was forever changed…I was captivated.” I smile at Finan, feeling the flutter in my heart from the twinkle in his eyes.

I am thankful for Finan leaving out the part as to how I ended up on the road to Coccham. It isn’t something I have shared with Björn, or our son, and I’m not sure how comfortable I feel sharing it with Ragnar either. It is not a story to be shared at a joyful celebration such as this.

“Finan has been my rock, my protector and the love of my life. He has already given me so much. A wonderful home, a handsome son…” I give Ronan an endearing smile. “…our beautiful daughter…and he continues to give me more.” I give Finan a little wink.

I softly giggle at Uhtred nodding his head in agreement with Finan last statement. “We ground each other, we help each other weather any storm.” I squeeze Finan’s hand in return giving him an adoring look.

@thedarkprinceofulaid @ronanofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

“Mo bhean chéile álainn…” Finan drawls, smiling as he takes Revna’s hand up for a kiss.

“We’ve been through a lot, in a short time. All of us have…

But somehow, this goddess agreed to marry me, and nothin’ else really matters. My family is everything. It grows and grows…” Finan says, bringing his nose to Revna’s cheek. He won’t reveal their amazing news until she’s absolutely ready, but he can’t keep the thought from his mind, and he knows she can’t either.

“I think as a man you seek to provide, and finally we can do that, from the safety of this fortress. My wife speaks too highly of me…

Revna followed me faithfully when I had very little to give her, so I risked everything for this. And it’s all been worth it,” Finan smiles again, at Ragnar, and Uhtred, and then his wife. There’s a sense of undying happiness, and another of power.

“No one can take it from us, so I worry very little.

As she said, Revna gave me the most beautiful daughter, if ya hadn’t met her already. This one will read yer soul and enchant you,” he points at Ronan across the table.

“… and my daughter makes anyone laugh and fall in love. They’re perfect… just like their mother.”

@revnashieldmaiden @lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar smiles warmly as he listens to Revna and Finan’s words of undying love and devotion. He feels himself getting a little teary eyed seeing the happiness on Revna’s face, and he only wishes his friend was here to see it as well. He quickly wipes the moisture from his eyes as a joyful chuckle rumbles from his chest.

“It warms my heart to see Gunnar’s daughter so happy…” Ragnar looks into Revna’s eyes, seeing her get a little teary eyed as well, no doubt thinking about her father. “She has always been like a daughter to me, with how close our families were. Her and Björn playing in the Great Hall when they were little…” he chuckles.

“And now…through the power of the Gods, she has lead my son to his own destiny. To the love of his life.” Ragnar smiles at Ronan and Björn.

“It’s almost like coming full circle…Gunnar and I were best friends since we were young, and our families stayed close….until he lost his life. Revna and Björn were best friends when they were young, and now their lives are forever connected. Their families will always be close.” Ragnar shakes his head as memories flood his mind, a bittersweet happiness in his eyes.

“They will carry on the tradition of our families bond with one another…”

@thedarkprinceofulaid @ronanofulaid

[lagertha-lothbrok]

“Ragnar,” Finan drawls, coming closer and taking the Northman’s arm.

“Thank you for that. That was very kind of you to offer such a gesture to bind our families.

The prince is right. You may stay here until the Spring,” he says.

If you can maintain respect …

“Please… join me, Revna and our Lord for a drink.”

@thedarkprinceofulaid

“It’s the least I could do, to honor the joining of our families…” Ragnar glances at Revna, giving her a solemn nod. His fondness for the shieldmaiden showing in his eyes. “Your wife holds a special place in my heart, her father and mother were dear to me, and I miss them greatly. Honoring Ronan in this way, is almost like honoring them. I see the love Revna has for you and Ronan, you are both her family…and now through marriage, mine as well.” He gives Finan a little nod, a seriousness to his tone.

“I appreciate it…” Ragnar softly says as the Irishman gives his assent for him to remain in Bebbanburg until Spring. The Northman brings his hand up to tug on his beard. “…I have no desire to cause problems for Lagertha with my presence here. I just want to spend time with my son…both of them.” He lips curl into a little smile.

“I will be on my…best behavior…” Ragnar gives the Irishman a playful smirk as they walk towards the Hall.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Finan nods at Ragnar’s words, an eyebrow arching at them. Ragnar is so mysterious, so aloof that his words are surprising to the Irishman. When he speaks of Lagertha, he’d practically read Finan’s mind.

“Mhm…” he hums, interrupted by the prince when he runs up to him and tells him that he and the Northman will be heading back to their cottage before the celebrations to change into comfortable clothes.

“That’s fine.” Finan smirks, giving the Northman a distant nod from afar. He chuckles when Ronan practically skips off.

“Gods, he takes after his mother... I swear…” Finan jests, pinching Revna’s side. He drapes his arm over her side, leading her and the others inside the Hall.

“Ragnar, please help yerself to anything. And please take one of the free cottages if you haven’t already.”

Finan jumps aside, taking his Dane’s hand and giving it a kiss as he looks into his eyes. “A little bird told me what you did for the newlyweds…” he grins. “Thank you for that, beloved.”

@askuhtredragnarson @lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar consider’s Finan’s offer of a cottage, but with no woman or man to keep him company, he thinks he’d prefer to stay in the Hall. The chambers he has been sleeping in for the last few weeks have been comfortable enough. Besides, being in the Hall reminds him of home with all the people coming and going. Even though, every time he sees Revna walk past he has to do a double take.

“If you don’t mind, I’d prefer to stay here…the chambers I’ve been staying in provides me all the comfort I need. Perhaps I can be of assistance, should the need ever arise.” Ragnar offers.

He has heard through the conversations of the people in the village and the fortress that even though this place was Uhtred’s birthright, he is new to the lordship here, having only recently vanquished his cousin to claim the fortress. And already they have been attacked by the King of Wessex’s men. He can’t help but be curious of the King’s interest in the Lord of Bebbanburg. Seems he would have lands closer to his kingdom to conquer before he sets his sights so far North.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[askuhtredragnarson]

When Finan takes his hand, Uhtred gives his husband a playful smirk. It was so mesmerizing watching Finan perform the ceremony for Björn and his son. It brought back so many memories of their special day, he swears he felt the buzz in the air of the Gods walking amongst them, honoring the young men’s union.

“What little bird?” Uhtred looks around the Hall in mock confusion, a barely contained laugh bubbling from his chest.

Pulling Finan against him and giving him a proper kiss, Uhtred’s lips curl into a smile. “You’re welcome, baby…it’s the least I could do. My gift for them to make their night special. Although I doubt it’ll hold a candle to our special night. I lost count how many times…” he stops, seeing the blush rise on his husband’s cheeks.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Quirking an eyebrow at Ragnar’s request to stay in the Hall, Finan defers to Uhtred.

“Uh, yeah. If it’s alright with Lord Uhtred then it’s fine with me… absolutely.” …

The Irishman grins instantly at Uhtred’s billowing laugh. Music to his ears.

“A little baby monk bird…” Finan snickers as the Dane pulls him in for a kiss. He feels a little bashful in front of Ragnar, but he doesn’t mind his Dane marking his territory.

“Shh shh…” Finan hushes him, giving him another kiss as he blushes.

“Don’t even try to count,” the Irishman whispers to his ear, giving it a little bite. He grins again when the Dane’s hand travels down his back, giving his arse a little squeeze.

“He wants to stay in the Hall,” Finan tells Uhtred as they walk hand in hand, nodding towards Ragnar.

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

“Damn it, Osferth…so much for keeping it a secret…” Uhtred feigns a pointed glare in the baby monk’s direction, before a smirk curls his lips. He shouldn’t be surprised that his little secret got out, since he had Osferth gather the petals for him. The Dane lets out a chuckle as he shakes his head.

As Finan hushes him from revealing how many times they pleasured each other, Uhtred lets out another laugh. “You know…I could ask Revna if she has Tessa’s recipe for you know what…” Uhtred says in a conspiring tone, letting out a little cough in lieu of the words. “Would make for an interesting night for the young lovers…or perhaps we’ll keep that as our little secret.” Uhtred gives Finan a mischievous wink.

A thrill runs through Uhtred as Finan bites his ear, heat traveling down his body as his hand trails down the Irishman’s back to squeeze his arse. “Careful there, baby…” Uhtred whispers in a husky tone. “…or it won’t be just the newlyweds seeing some action tonight.” The Dane gives his husband a challenging arch of his eyebrow.

When Finan mentions that Ragnar wants to stay in the Hall, Uhtred gives the Northman a surprised look. “Oh..uh, sure…there are plenty of chambers on the lower levels of the Hall. All comfortably furnished. It would be an honor having the legendary Ragnar Lothbrok staying in Bebbanburg.

Maybe it’ll scare away some of our enemies…” Uhtred chuckles.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

“Uhtred! No! I will not be a bad influence… more than I already have,” Finan laughs.

“Our little secret.”

The Irishman smiles at Uhtred’s words to Ragnar, agreeing with him.

“It’s true… we have some enemies. But we welcome your presence here,” he agrees.

“Now, come. Everyone let us eat and drink…” the Irishman rings out. He lets Uhtred lead them into the Great Hall, taking a seat beside his husband as he takes his own seat at the head of the table. His wife sits beside him, and the others file in one by one.

“So, um… do you have any questions for us? About us, or anything in particular?” Finan asks genuinely, looking into Ragnar’s eyes.

@lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Taking a seat across from the Irishman and Revna, Ragnar cocks an eyebrow at Finan’s question. Sure there are many things he has yet to learn about the Irishman and his family. Like the story of how Revna came to be apart of their family. He never trusted her brothers and he was saddened when he learned that his best-friend’s daughter had left with them to join the Danes that settled here.

He can’t help but be curious as to how the Irishman was able to get his ex-wife to be a willing participant with someone who shares his love with multiple people. Ragnar smiles ruefully when he considers that it wasn’t the idea of multiple lovers that caused Lagertha to leave him, but more so the person. It wasn’t uncommon for them to invite others into their bed, but with Aslaug it was different. He could sense the immediate dislike between the two women, and now looking back he understands it. Regrettably so.

But the thing that stands at the forefront of his mind is the situation with the King of Wessex and his men’s attack on the village. He can’t help but be concerned given his ex-wife and sons call that village their home.

After placing some food on his plate, Ragnar glances at both Uhtred and Finan curious as to what their response might be to his questions.

“I can’t help but be curious as to why the King of Wessex would attempt to attack so far North, when there are other lands closer to his to conquer? What is his interest in Bebbanburg…or should I say who?” He raises an eyebrow inquiringly as he glances between the two Lords.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Damn, where do I even start with that…

“Uh, well…” Finan shares a look with his Lord, before bringing his gaze back to Ragnar.

“He’s hurt us greatly, in a number of manipulating ways of various severity. My Lord was Alfred’s oathman at one time, for many years. They shared a… connection,” Finan says, almost regrettably at the sound of it falling from his lips.

“Through a very unfortunate series of tribulations, he is now our sworn enemy, but he really can’t get Uhtred out of his mind. He has regrets, and just enough ego to act without a single rational thought. So he very swiftly takes every chance to win Uhtred’s favor, but he does so by hurtin’ those around him, and it only drives the wedge deeper,” Finan says.

“He wants Uhtred to forgive him. To give him another chance… but it only gets worse as the King tries to gain that favor by force,” he continues.

“There are other men that seem to have lost their way alongside him.”

@lagertha-lothbrok

[askuhtredragnarson]

Reaching his hand across the table, Uhtred gently places it over Finan’s as he explains to the Northman their troubles with the King of Wessex. That word, connection, not sitting right with him. Maybe at one time he had seen Alfred’s vision of a untied England, but that vision has become so twisted and mangled in the King’s pursuit of it.

“I was blinded by a sense of honor and reputation, not seeing what it was the King truly sought. Even now, I can’t wrap my head around the idea that he holds some kind of affection towards me. An affection I don’t return.

He took away my wife, made me think that she had passed in childbirth. For years I had mourned her death, only to find out later that she was very much alive. I see now that he did it because he was hoping that I would seek his comfort, that it would bring us closer together.

Last Spring he had Revna taken, to my husband’s homeland.” Uhtred glances at Revna and Finan, a sorrowful look in his eyes. “He did it under the guise of securing an alliance with the King of Ulaid for the upcoming war with the North, but really, he did it in hopes that Finan would be killed by his brother. Thus removing another obstacle to his affections for me.”

Uhtred shakes his head, the heaviness of everything weighing at his heart. “I fear Alfred won’t stop in his pursuit of me…” the Dane solemnly says as he glances in his loved ones eyes.

@lagertha-lothbrok @thedarkprinceofulaid

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar nods in understanding, seeing the pain the King has caused both of these men. He can sense the guilt Lord Uhtred holds in his heart being the reason of so much strife for his family.

“At one time, I thought I could trust the King of Wessex. He offered my people land to settle, but as soon as me and my warriors left, he had them all killed. Wiping out the entire village of farmers…women and children.

I kept it a secret…” Ragnar shakes his head regretfully.

“My ambitions had shifted to Paris…my desire to raid a new land with the promise of untold riches. I knew if my people found out what had happened to the settlement in Wessex they would seek revenge. They would seek to kill the King of Wessex…” Ragnar leans back in his chair, his hand coming up to tug on his beard.

“Perhaps I should have let them…” He cocks an eyebrow at the two Lords, before huffing out a breath.

“Alfred and I shared a connection with someone I cared deeply for…we would often have discussions about the differences in our faiths and Gods. I had considered him a friend at one point. Until he betrayed me…” 

There is a flash of something in Ragnar’s deep blue eyes as he glances at those around him. Maybe a flash of heartache, of pain, or perhaps the longing of a lost love.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

“… this is a new life for us,” Finan speaks up.

“No one can penetrate this fortress. Acquiring Bebbanburg was our dream for years in the makin’, and now that we have it, a siege doesn’t stand a chance. You can be assured of that. The only reason that Björn and Ronan settled outside the fortress is because my teenager bloody insisted on it for days. And the only reason I agreed is because Lagertha is not far… So… there’s that,” the Irishman chuckles, taking a sip of ale.

“I’m not worried about Alfred. Not anymore. We have over a thousand loyal men here. He can gawk all he wants.”

Finan appraises the look in Ragnar’s eyes, seeing something deeper, perhaps something he can regretfully relate to.

[ronanofulaid]

“Who’s gawkin’?” The prince asks as he and his husband finally arrive at their own celebrations, Björn led by his hand.

“Alfred,” Finan answers.

“He may look, but…” he wags his eyebrows at Uhtred, about to finish his sentence until Björn pinches his side and he snickers.

“I think I’ll sit next to you,” Ronan tells Ragnar with a beaming smile, pouring wine before he can even take a seat.

“Hey, hey, easy on that…” Finan protests in his deep brogue.

“What is this, a monastery? Jesus,” the prince snaps back with a laugh, as Finan gives Ragnar a knowing look and a smirk telling him that he may see the prince’s real personality tonight.

@lagertha-lothbrok @bjornironsideviking

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar holds his mug up to his new son-in-law to be topped off, chuckling at the young man’s words.

“…a monastery would have better wine.” Ragnar says teasingly under his breath before quickly taking a sip from the mug.

“Hey!” Uhtred mock glares at the older Northman. “We would have better wine, if these two would quit stealing it.” Uhtred cocks his head at the younger men joining the table with an accusing look on his face.

Ragnar chuckles louder, tapping his mug with Ronan.

“Ahh…let them celebrate…” Ragnar says to the older Irishman. “If they drink too much, then it’ll be an early night for them.” He glances at his son with an eyebrow arched teasingly. Björn might be a virile young man, but even he might not withstand the effects of imbibing too much.

Clearing his throat as a seriousness comes over his face, Ragnar looks across the table at Finan. “In any event, if the King of Wessex tries to come knocking…or anyone for that matter, you have my sword at your disposal. I will do anything I can to protect my family. Including you, my best-friend’s son-in-law.” Ragnar gives Revna a little nod at a tender smile comes to his face.

@thedarkprinceofulaid @ronanofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Finan’s eyebrows perk up at Ragnar’s words, and he shares a look with Revna for a split second.

“… thank you, Ragnar.” The Irishman drawls, giving the Northman a nod and a smile.

“I would say the same for you. Yer son saved my life in my last battle… without hesitation. I think of that often. When I gave him permission to wed my own kin, it was ringin’ in my head. I’m so proud of the man he is, and uh… I will do anything to protect my family, as well.” Finan says, gesturing his hands toward everyone sitting at the table.

@lagertha-lothbrok

[ronanofulaid]

Passing some food to his husband and pouring another half glass of wine, Ronan gives Björn a wink, grinning at Uhtred’s comment about them stealing wine, then giving him a subtle kiss on the cheek when Finan mentions Björn saving his life. It was something that didn’t escape Ronan’s mind either, and he muses on it for a minute while he pours another for Ragnar.

“Do you find us as exotic as we find you?” Ronan asks Ragnar.

@bjornironsideviking @lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar quirks an eyebrow at Ronan’s question taking another sip of his wine.

He gives a little shrug of his shoulders, “Your accent is a little different than I’m used to…having spent more time around the Saxons and Danes.” the Northman grins.

“I know the Gods you worship are different than ours…different even from the Christian God my friend told me about. We celebrate the seasons much like your people, just with different customs.”

“So…yes, I’d say I find you a bit exotic….” Ragnar gives the prince a wink.

Leaning back in his chair, the Northman gives Ronan an inquisitive look. “…and what brought you and my son together?”

@ronanofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

The prince shows the Northman an excited smile at his words, intently listening to them with his chin resting in his hand. There was something about the way he spoke. He lingered on syllables, and his eyes punctuated his words with interesting looks, like a storyteller. Ronan furrows his brows, still smiling at his father in law as his own accent reminds him so much of his husband’s.

“I was still in Ulaid when Revna was taken hostage by my uncle… my Da met Björn and Lagertha, and they agreed to join forces with him against my homeland for Revna’s sake. When my father left for Bebbanburg, I joined him. He practically brought Björn to me, but it didn’t happen instantly,” Ronan tells Ragnar with a smile.

“And ehm… well, I had a dream about him. Many dreams about him. I see things before they happen, sometimes…” Ronan says, sharing a look with his Mum, because he still doesn’t know quite how to describe it.

“I dreamt about him before I saw him on the battlefield, and I dreamt about him the night before I introduced myself to him. He’s my destiny… my soulmate. I was in love with him from the moment we met, but I didn’t tell him…” the prince snickers, sharing a look with Björn.

@lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar listens intently to Ronan, glancing briefly at Revna when the prince tells about her abduction and subsequent rescue. He gives her a little tilt of his head, curious about all she has been through since she left their homeland. When the young Irishman mentions that he has dreams, that he sees things before they happen, it instantly piques the warrior’s attention.

“You’re a seer?” Ragnar asks in surprise seeing the look Ronan exchanges with the shieldmaiden.

“We had a seer in our village…in Kattegat. He communed with the Gods and had visions. He foretold I would have many sons…which I did.” Ragnar smirks as his looks at his oldest son.

“He also told Lagertha that she would bear no more children…” Ragnar softly says, a hint of sadness in his voice as he glances down the table at his ex-wife. “Sadly that vision has held true as well. She miscarried while we were in Paris…if she would have heeded my advice…” Ragnar utters under his breath shaking his head. He still wants to believe that maybe she wouldn’t have lost her pup, if she wouldn’t have pushed herself so hard physically.

Ragnar smiles fondly seeing the exchange of looks between Ronan and his son. He can see clear as day the love they have for each other.

“Soulmates…” The Northman raises his mug in a toast.

@ronanofulaid @thedarkprinceofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

“Yeah… I suppose that’s what I am,” Ronan nods, listening to Ragnar’s musings. The prince tries not to tell people what he sees when he speaks to them. If anything, he tries to push it away and focus on them as they’re speaking. But Ragnar mentioning his sons brings chaos to his mind, a destiny of strife, surely. He can see their faces, the sometimes bitterness between them.

As he listens to Ragnar, the prince glances to his father, finding him intently listening as well. People are picking at their food, all the more interested in the conversation, and that’s a rarity.

Ronan raises his mug as Ragnar does, echoing his words.

“Soulmates…”

He turns his head and nuzzles his nose with his husband’s, his dark eyes telling Björn something unspoken.

I think he likes me!

@lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Looking across the table, Ragnar watches the smiles exchanged and the loving touches between Finan and Revna. A smirk comes to his face as he good-naturedly shakes his head. He never imagined his best friend’s daughter would have fallen in love with an Irishman.

“So, you never did tell me how you two met?” He looks into the Irishman’s eyes, the curiosity shining in his. He sees the smile curl Revna’s lips as she bows her head before looking at her husband.

Ragnar can’t help but stare a moment longer at the shieldmaiden, sensing something different about her, but he can’t quite put his finger on it. It’s almost like she’s glowing.

“I knew Revna and my son were close growing up, but it’s interesting how they both somehow followed similar paths….falling in love with Irishmen.” Ragnar flashes Revna and Björn a playful little smirk.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[lagertha-lothbrok]

“Ragnar,” Finan drawls, coming closer and taking the Northman’s arm.

“Thank you for that. That was very kind of you to offer such a gesture to bind our families.

The prince is right. You may stay here until the Spring,” he says.

If you can maintain respect …

“Please… join me, Revna and our Lord for a drink.”

@thedarkprinceofulaid

“It’s the least I could do, to honor the joining of our families…” Ragnar glances at Revna, giving her a solemn nod. His fondness for the shieldmaiden showing in his eyes. “Your wife holds a special place in my heart, her father and mother were dear to me, and I miss them greatly. Honoring Ronan in this way, is almost like honoring them. I see the love Revna has for you and Ronan, you are both her family…and now through marriage, mine as well.” He gives Finan a little nod, a seriousness to his tone.

“I appreciate it…” Ragnar softly says as the Irishman gives his assent for him to remain in Bebbanburg until Spring. The Northman brings his hand up to tug on his beard. “…I have no desire to cause problems for Lagertha with my presence here. I just want to spend time with my son…both of them.” He lips curl into a little smile.

“I will be on my…best behavior…” Ragnar gives the Irishman a playful smirk as they walk towards the Hall.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Finan nods at Ragnar’s words, an eyebrow arching at them. Ragnar is so mysterious, so aloof that his words are surprising to the Irishman. When he speaks of Lagertha, he’d practically read Finan’s mind.

“Mhm…” he hums, interrupted by the prince when he runs up to him and tells him that he and the Northman will be heading back to their cottage before the celebrations to change into comfortable clothes.

“That’s fine.” Finan smirks, giving the Northman a distant nod from afar. He chuckles when Ronan practically skips off.

“Gods, he takes after his mother... I swear…” Finan jests, pinching Revna’s side. He drapes his arm over her side, leading her and the others inside the Hall.

“Ragnar, please help yerself to anything. And please take one of the free cottages if you haven’t already.”

Finan jumps aside, taking his Dane’s hand and giving it a kiss as he looks into his eyes. “A little bird told me what you did for the newlyweds…” he grins. “Thank you for that, beloved.”

@askuhtredragnarson @lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar consider’s Finan’s offer of a cottage, but with no woman or man to keep him company, he thinks he’d prefer to stay in the Hall. The chambers he has been sleeping in for the last few weeks have been comfortable enough. Besides, being in the Hall reminds him of home with all the people coming and going. Even though, every time he sees Revna walk past he has to do a double take.

“If you don’t mind, I’d prefer to stay here…the chambers I’ve been staying in provides me all the comfort I need. Perhaps I can be of assistance, should the need ever arise.” Ragnar offers.

He has heard through the conversations of the people in the village and the fortress that even though this place was Uhtred’s birthright, he is new to the lordship here, having only recently vanquished his cousin to claim the fortress. And already they have been attacked by the King of Wessex’s men. He can’t help but be curious of the King’s interest in the Lord of Bebbanburg. Seems he would have lands closer to his kingdom to conquer before he sets his sights so far North.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[askuhtredragnarson]

When Finan takes his hand, Uhtred gives his husband a playful smirk. It was so mesmerizing watching Finan perform the ceremony for Björn and his son. It brought back so many memories of their special day, he swears he felt the buzz in the air of the Gods walking amongst them, honoring the young men’s union.

“What little bird?” Uhtred looks around the Hall in mock confusion, a barely contained laugh bubbling from his chest.

Pulling Finan against him and giving him a proper kiss, Uhtred’s lips curl into a smile. “You’re welcome, baby…it’s the least I could do. My gift for them to make their night special. Although I doubt it’ll hold a candle to our special night. I lost count how many times…” he stops, seeing the blush rise on his husband’s cheeks.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Quirking an eyebrow at Ragnar’s request to stay in the Hall, Finan defers to Uhtred.

“Uh, yeah. If it’s alright with Lord Uhtred then it’s fine with me… absolutely.” …

The Irishman grins instantly at Uhtred’s billowing laugh. Music to his ears.

“A little baby monk bird…” Finan snickers as the Dane pulls him in for a kiss. He feels a little bashful in front of Ragnar, but he doesn’t mind his Dane marking his territory.

“Shh shh…” Finan hushes him, giving him another kiss as he blushes.

“Don’t even try to count,” the Irishman whispers to his ear, giving it a little bite. He grins again when the Dane’s hand travels down his back, giving his arse a little squeeze.

“He wants to stay in the Hall,” Finan tells Uhtred as they walk hand in hand, nodding towards Ragnar.

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

“Damn it, Osferth…so much for keeping it a secret…” Uhtred feigns a pointed glare in the baby monk’s direction, before a smirk curls his lips. He shouldn’t be surprised that his little secret got out, since he had Osferth gather the petals for him. The Dane lets out a chuckle as he shakes his head.

As Finan hushes him from revealing how many times they pleasured each other, Uhtred lets out another laugh. “You know…I could ask Revna if she has Tessa’s recipe for you know what…” Uhtred says in a conspiring tone, letting out a little cough in lieu of the words. “Would make for an interesting night for the young lovers…or perhaps we’ll keep that as our little secret.” Uhtred gives Finan a mischievous wink.

A thrill runs through Uhtred as Finan bites his ear, heat traveling down his body as his hand trails down the Irishman’s back to squeeze his arse. “Careful there, baby…” Uhtred whispers in a husky tone. “…or it won’t be just the newlyweds seeing some action tonight.” The Dane gives his husband a challenging arch of his eyebrow.

When Finan mentions that Ragnar wants to stay in the Hall, Uhtred gives the Northman a surprised look. “Oh..uh, sure…there are plenty of chambers on the lower levels of the Hall. All comfortably furnished. It would be an honor having the legendary Ragnar Lothbrok staying in Bebbanburg.

Maybe it’ll scare away some of our enemies…” Uhtred chuckles.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

“Uhtred! No! I will not be a bad influence… more than I already have,” Finan laughs.

“Our little secret.”

The Irishman smiles at Uhtred’s words to Ragnar, agreeing with him.

“It’s true… we have some enemies. But we welcome your presence here,” he agrees.

“Now, come. Everyone let us eat and drink…” the Irishman rings out. He lets Uhtred lead them into the Great Hall, taking a seat beside his husband as he takes his own seat at the head of the table. His wife sits beside him, and the others file in one by one.

“So, um… do you have any questions for us? About us, or anything in particular?” Finan asks genuinely, looking into Ragnar’s eyes.

@lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Taking a seat across from the Irishman and Revna, Ragnar cocks an eyebrow at Finan’s question. Sure there are many things he has yet to learn about the Irishman and his family. Like the story of how Revna came to be apart of their family. He never trusted her brothers and he was saddened when he learned that his best-friend’s daughter had left with them to join the Danes that settled here.

He can’t help but be curious as to how the Irishman was able to get his ex-wife to be a willing participant with someone who shares his love with multiple people. Ragnar smiles ruefully when he considers that it wasn’t the idea of multiple lovers that caused Lagertha to leave him, but more so the person. It wasn’t uncommon for them to invite others into their bed, but with Aslaug it was different. He could sense the immediate dislike between the two women, and now looking back he understands it. Regrettably so.

But the thing that stands at the forefront of his mind is the situation with the King of Wessex and his men’s attack on the village. He can’t help but be concerned given his ex-wife and sons call that village their home.

After placing some food on his plate, Ragnar glances at both Uhtred and Finan curious as to what their response might be to his questions.

“I can’t help but be curious as to why the King of Wessex would attempt to attack so far North, when there are other lands closer to his to conquer? What is his interest in Bebbanburg…or should I say who?” He raises an eyebrow inquiringly as he glances between the two Lords.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Damn, where do I even start with that…

“Uh, well…” Finan shares a look with his Lord, before bringing his gaze back to Ragnar.

“He’s hurt us greatly, in a number of manipulating ways of various severity. My Lord was Alfred’s oathman at one time, for many years. They shared a… connection,” Finan says, almost regrettably at the sound of it falling from his lips.

“Through a very unfortunate series of tribulations, he is now our sworn enemy, but he really can’t get Uhtred out of his mind. He has regrets, and just enough ego to act without a single rational thought. So he very swiftly takes every chance to win Uhtred’s favor, but he does so by hurtin’ those around him, and it only drives the wedge deeper,” Finan says.

“He wants Uhtred to forgive him. To give him another chance… but it only gets worse as the King tries to gain that favor by force,” he continues.

“There are other men that seem to have lost their way alongside him.”

@lagertha-lothbrok

[askuhtredragnarson]

Reaching his hand across the table, Uhtred gently places it over Finan’s as he explains to the Northman their troubles with the King of Wessex. That word, connection, not sitting right with him. Maybe at one time he had seen Alfred’s vision of a untied England, but that vision has become so twisted and mangled in the King’s pursuit of it.

“I was blinded by a sense of honor and reputation, not seeing what it was the King truly sought. Even now, I can’t wrap my head around the idea that he holds some kind of affection towards me. An affection I don’t return.

He took away my wife, made me think that she had passed in childbirth. For years I had mourned her death, only to find out later that she was very much alive. I see now that he did it because he was hoping that I would seek his comfort, that it would bring us closer together.

Last Spring he had Revna taken, to my husband’s homeland.” Uhtred glances at Revna and Finan, a sorrowful look in his eyes. “He did it under the guise of securing an alliance with the King of Ulaid for the upcoming war with the North, but really, he did it in hopes that Finan would be killed by his brother. Thus removing another obstacle to his affections for me.”

Uhtred shakes his head, the heaviness of everything weighing at his heart. “I fear Alfred won’t stop in his pursuit of me…” the Dane solemnly says as he glances in his loved ones eyes.

@lagertha-lothbrok @thedarkprinceofulaid

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar nods in understanding, seeing the pain the King has caused both of these men. He can sense the guilt Lord Uhtred holds in his heart being the reason of so much strife for his family.

“At one time, I thought I could trust the King of Wessex. He offered my people land to settle, but as soon as me and my warriors left, he had them all killed. Wiping out the entire village of farmers…women and children.

I kept it a secret…” Ragnar shakes his head regretfully.

“My ambitions had shifted to Paris…my desire to raid a new land with the promise of untold riches. I knew if my people found out what had happened to the settlement in Wessex they would seek revenge. They would seek to kill the King of Wessex…” Ragnar leans back in his chair, his hand coming up to tug on his beard.

“Perhaps I should have let them…” He cocks an eyebrow at the two Lords, before huffing out a breath.

“Alfred and I shared a connection with someone I cared deeply for…we would often have discussions about the differences in our faiths and Gods. I had considered him a friend at one point. Until he betrayed me…” 

There is a flash of something in Ragnar’s deep blue eyes as he glances at those around him. Maybe a flash of heartache, of pain, or perhaps the longing of a lost love.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

“… this is a new life for us,” Finan speaks up.

“No one can penetrate this fortress. Acquiring Bebbanburg was our dream for years in the makin’, and now that we have it, a siege doesn’t stand a chance. You can be assured of that. The only reason that Björn and Ronan settled outside the fortress is because my teenager bloody insisted on it for days. And the only reason I agreed is because Lagertha is not far… So… there’s that,” the Irishman chuckles, taking a sip of ale.

“I’m not worried about Alfred. Not anymore. We have over a thousand loyal men here. He can gawk all he wants.”

Finan appraises the look in Ragnar’s eyes, seeing something deeper, perhaps something he can regretfully relate to.

[ronanofulaid]

“Who’s gawkin’?” The prince asks as he and his husband finally arrive at their own celebrations, Björn led by his hand.

“Alfred,” Finan answers.

“He may look, but…” he wags his eyebrows at Uhtred, about to finish his sentence until Björn pinches his side and he snickers.

“I think I’ll sit next to you,” Ronan tells Ragnar with a beaming smile, pouring wine before he can even take a seat.

“Hey, hey, easy on that…” Finan protests in his deep brogue.

“What is this, a monastery? Jesus,” the prince snaps back with a laugh, as Finan gives Ragnar a knowing look and a smirk telling him that he may see the prince’s real personality tonight.

@lagertha-lothbrok @bjornironsideviking

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar holds his mug up to his new son-in-law to be topped off, chuckling at the young man’s words.

“…a monastery would have better wine.” Ragnar says teasingly under his breath before quickly taking a sip from the mug.

“Hey!” Uhtred mock glares at the older Northman. “We would have better wine, if these two would quit stealing it.” Uhtred cocks his head at the younger men joining the table with an accusing look on his face.

Ragnar chuckles louder, tapping his mug with Ronan.

“Ahh…let them celebrate…” Ragnar says to the older Irishman. “If they drink too much, then it’ll be an early night for them.” He glances at his son with an eyebrow arched teasingly. Björn might be a virile young man, but even he might not withstand the effects of imbibing too much.

Clearing his throat as a seriousness comes over his face, Ragnar looks across the table at Finan. “In any event, if the King of Wessex tries to come knocking…or anyone for that matter, you have my sword at your disposal. I will do anything I can to protect my family. Including you, my best-friend’s son-in-law.” Ragnar gives Revna a little nod at a tender smile comes to his face.

@thedarkprinceofulaid @ronanofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Finan’s eyebrows perk up at Ragnar’s words, and he shares a look with Revna for a split second.

“… thank you, Ragnar.” The Irishman drawls, giving the Northman a nod and a smile.

“I would say the same for you. Yer son saved my life in my last battle… without hesitation. I think of that often. When I gave him permission to wed my own kin, it was ringin’ in my head. I’m so proud of the man he is, and uh… I will do anything to protect my family, as well.” Finan says, gesturing his hands toward everyone sitting at the table.

@lagertha-lothbrok

[ronanofulaid]

Passing some food to his husband and pouring another half glass of wine, Ronan gives Björn a wink, grinning at Uhtred’s comment about them stealing wine, then giving him a subtle kiss on the cheek when Finan mentions Björn saving his life. It was something that didn’t escape Ronan’s mind either, and he muses on it for a minute while he pours another for Ragnar.

“Do you find us as exotic as we find you?” Ronan asks Ragnar.

@bjornironsideviking @lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar quirks an eyebrow at Ronan’s question taking another sip of his wine.

He gives a little shrug of his shoulders, “Your accent is a little different than I’m used to…having spent more time around the Saxons and Danes.” the Northman grins.

“I know the Gods you worship are different than ours…different even from the Christian God my friend told me about. We celebrate the seasons much like your people, just with different customs.”

“So…yes, I’d say I find you a bit exotic….” Ragnar gives the prince a wink.

Leaning back in his chair, the Northman gives Ronan an inquisitive look. “…and what brought you and my son together?”

@ronanofulaid

[ronanofulaid]

The prince shows the Northman an excited smile at his words, intently listening to them with his chin resting in his hand. There was something about the way he spoke. He lingered on syllables, and his eyes punctuated his words with interesting looks, like a storyteller. Ronan furrows his brows, still smiling at his father in law as his own accent reminds him so much of his husband’s.

“I was still in Ulaid when Revna was taken hostage by my uncle… my Da met Björn and Lagertha, and they agreed to join forces with him against my homeland for Revna’s sake. When my father left for Bebbanburg, I joined him. He practically brought Björn to me, but it didn’t happen instantly,” Ronan tells Ragnar with a smile.

“And ehm… well, I had a dream about him. Many dreams about him. I see things before they happen, sometimes…” Ronan says, sharing a look with his Mum, because he still doesn’t know quite how to describe it.

“I dreamt about him before I saw him on the battlefield, and I dreamt about him the night before I introduced myself to him. He’s my destiny… my soulmate. I was in love with him from the moment we met, but I didn’t tell him…” the prince snickers, sharing a look with Björn.

@lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar listens intently to Ronan, glancing briefly at Revna when the prince tells about her abduction and subsequent rescue. He gives her a little tilt of his head, curious about all she has been through since she left their homeland. When the young Irishman mentions that he has dreams, that he sees things before they happen, it instantly piques the warrior’s attention.

“You’re a seer?” Ragnar asks in surprise seeing the look Ronan exchanges with the shieldmaiden.

“We had a seer in our village…in Kattegat. He communed with the Gods and had visions. He foretold I would have many sons…which I did.” Ragnar smirks as his looks at his oldest son.

“He also told Lagertha that she would bear no more children…” Ragnar softly says, a hint of sadness in his voice as he glances down the table at his ex-wife. “Sadly that vision has held true as well. She miscarried while we were in Paris…if she would have heeded my advice…” Ragnar utters under his breath shaking his head. He still wants to believe that maybe she wouldn’t have lost her pup, if she wouldn’t have pushed herself so hard physically.

Ragnar smiles fondly seeing the exchange of looks between Ronan and his son. He can see clear as day the love they have for each other.

“Soulmates…” The Northman raises his mug in a toast.

@ronanofulaid @thedarkprinceofulaid

[lagertha-lothbrok]

“Ragnar,” Finan drawls, coming closer and taking the Northman’s arm.

“Thank you for that. That was very kind of you to offer such a gesture to bind our families.

The prince is right. You may stay here until the Spring,” he says.

If you can maintain respect …

“Please… join me, Revna and our Lord for a drink.”

@thedarkprinceofulaid

“It’s the least I could do, to honor the joining of our families…” Ragnar glances at Revna, giving her a solemn nod. His fondness for the shieldmaiden showing in his eyes. “Your wife holds a special place in my heart, her father and mother were dear to me, and I miss them greatly. Honoring Ronan in this way, is almost like honoring them. I see the love Revna has for you and Ronan, you are both her family…and now through marriage, mine as well.” He gives Finan a little nod, a seriousness to his tone.

“I appreciate it…” Ragnar softly says as the Irishman gives his assent for him to remain in Bebbanburg until Spring. The Northman brings his hand up to tug on his beard. “…I have no desire to cause problems for Lagertha with my presence here. I just want to spend time with my son…both of them.” He lips curl into a little smile.

“I will be on my…best behavior…” Ragnar gives the Irishman a playful smirk as they walk towards the Hall.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Finan nods at Ragnar’s words, an eyebrow arching at them. Ragnar is so mysterious, so aloof that his words are surprising to the Irishman. When he speaks of Lagertha, he’d practically read Finan’s mind.

“Mhm…” he hums, interrupted by the prince when he runs up to him and tells him that he and the Northman will be heading back to their cottage before the celebrations to change into comfortable clothes.

“That’s fine.” Finan smirks, giving the Northman a distant nod from afar. He chuckles when Ronan practically skips off.

“Gods, he takes after his mother... I swear…” Finan jests, pinching Revna’s side. He drapes his arm over her side, leading her and the others inside the Hall.

“Ragnar, please help yerself to anything. And please take one of the free cottages if you haven’t already.”

Finan jumps aside, taking his Dane’s hand and giving it a kiss as he looks into his eyes. “A little bird told me what you did for the newlyweds…” he grins. “Thank you for that, beloved.”

@askuhtredragnarson @lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar consider’s Finan’s offer of a cottage, but with no woman or man to keep him company, he thinks he’d prefer to stay in the Hall. The chambers he has been sleeping in for the last few weeks have been comfortable enough. Besides, being in the Hall reminds him of home with all the people coming and going. Even though, every time he sees Revna walk past he has to do a double take.

“If you don’t mind, I’d prefer to stay here…the chambers I’ve been staying in provides me all the comfort I need. Perhaps I can be of assistance, should the need ever arise.” Ragnar offers.

He has heard through the conversations of the people in the village and the fortress that even though this place was Uhtred’s birthright, he is new to the lordship here, having only recently vanquished his cousin to claim the fortress. And already they have been attacked by the King of Wessex’s men. He can’t help but be curious of the King’s interest in the Lord of Bebbanburg. Seems he would have lands closer to his kingdom to conquer before he sets his sights so far North.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[askuhtredragnarson]

When Finan takes his hand, Uhtred gives his husband a playful smirk. It was so mesmerizing watching Finan perform the ceremony for Björn and his son. It brought back so many memories of their special day, he swears he felt the buzz in the air of the Gods walking amongst them, honoring the young men’s union.

“What little bird?” Uhtred looks around the Hall in mock confusion, a barely contained laugh bubbling from his chest.

Pulling Finan against him and giving him a proper kiss, Uhtred’s lips curl into a smile. “You’re welcome, baby…it’s the least I could do. My gift for them to make their night special. Although I doubt it’ll hold a candle to our special night. I lost count how many times…” he stops, seeing the blush rise on his husband’s cheeks.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Quirking an eyebrow at Ragnar’s request to stay in the Hall, Finan defers to Uhtred.

“Uh, yeah. If it’s alright with Lord Uhtred then it’s fine with me… absolutely.” …

The Irishman grins instantly at Uhtred’s billowing laugh. Music to his ears.

“A little baby monk bird…” Finan snickers as the Dane pulls him in for a kiss. He feels a little bashful in front of Ragnar, but he doesn’t mind his Dane marking his territory.

“Shh shh…” Finan hushes him, giving him another kiss as he blushes.

“Don’t even try to count,” the Irishman whispers to his ear, giving it a little bite. He grins again when the Dane’s hand travels down his back, giving his arse a little squeeze.

“He wants to stay in the Hall,” Finan tells Uhtred as they walk hand in hand, nodding towards Ragnar.

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

“Damn it, Osferth…so much for keeping it a secret…” Uhtred feigns a pointed glare in the baby monk’s direction, before a smirk curls his lips. He shouldn’t be surprised that his little secret got out, since he had Osferth gather the petals for him. The Dane lets out a chuckle as he shakes his head.

As Finan hushes him from revealing how many times they pleasured each other, Uhtred lets out another laugh. “You know…I could ask Revna if she has Tessa’s recipe for you know what…” Uhtred says in a conspiring tone, letting out a little cough in lieu of the words. “Would make for an interesting night for the young lovers…or perhaps we’ll keep that as our little secret.” Uhtred gives Finan a mischievous wink.

A thrill runs through Uhtred as Finan bites his ear, heat traveling down his body as his hand trails down the Irishman’s back to squeeze his arse. “Careful there, baby…” Uhtred whispers in a husky tone. “…or it won’t be just the newlyweds seeing some action tonight.” The Dane gives his husband a challenging arch of his eyebrow.

When Finan mentions that Ragnar wants to stay in the Hall, Uhtred gives the Northman a surprised look. “Oh..uh, sure…there are plenty of chambers on the lower levels of the Hall. All comfortably furnished. It would be an honor having the legendary Ragnar Lothbrok staying in Bebbanburg.

Maybe it’ll scare away some of our enemies…” Uhtred chuckles.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

“Uhtred! No! I will not be a bad influence… more than I already have,” Finan laughs.

“Our little secret.”

The Irishman smiles at Uhtred’s words to Ragnar, agreeing with him.

“It’s true… we have some enemies. But we welcome your presence here,” he agrees.

“Now, come. Everyone let us eat and drink…” the Irishman rings out. He lets Uhtred lead them into the Great Hall, taking a seat beside his husband as he takes his own seat at the head of the table. His wife sits beside him, and the others file in one by one.

“So, um… do you have any questions for us? About us, or anything in particular?” Finan asks genuinely, looking into Ragnar’s eyes.

@lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Taking a seat across from the Irishman and Revna, Ragnar cocks an eyebrow at Finan’s question. Sure there are many things he has yet to learn about the Irishman and his family. Like the story of how Revna came to be apart of their family. He never trusted her brothers and he was saddened when he learned that his best-friend’s daughter had left with them to join the Danes that settled here.

He can’t help but be curious as to how the Irishman was able to get his ex-wife to be a willing participant with someone who shares his love with multiple people. Ragnar smiles ruefully when he considers that it wasn’t the idea of multiple lovers that caused Lagertha to leave him, but more so the person. It wasn’t uncommon for them to invite others into their bed, but with Aslaug it was different. He could sense the immediate dislike between the two women, and now looking back he understands it. Regrettably so.

But the thing that stands at the forefront of his mind is the situation with the King of Wessex and his men’s attack on the village. He can’t help but be concerned given his ex-wife and sons call that village their home.

After placing some food on his plate, Ragnar glances at both Uhtred and Finan curious as to what their response might be to his questions.

“I can’t help but be curious as to why the King of Wessex would attempt to attack so far North, when there are other lands closer to his to conquer? What is his interest in Bebbanburg…or should I say who?” He raises an eyebrow inquiringly as he glances between the two Lords.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Damn, where do I even start with that…

“Uh, well…” Finan shares a look with his Lord, before bringing his gaze back to Ragnar.

“He’s hurt us greatly, in a number of manipulating ways of various severity. My Lord was Alfred’s oathman at one time, for many years. They shared a… connection,” Finan says, almost regrettably at the sound of it falling from his lips.

“Through a very unfortunate series of tribulations, he is now our sworn enemy, but he really can’t get Uhtred out of his mind. He has regrets, and just enough ego to act without a single rational thought. So he very swiftly takes every chance to win Uhtred’s favor, but he does so by hurtin’ those around him, and it only drives the wedge deeper,” Finan says.

“He wants Uhtred to forgive him. To give him another chance… but it only gets worse as the King tries to gain that favor by force,” he continues.

“There are other men that seem to have lost their way alongside him.”

@lagertha-lothbrok

[askuhtredragnarson]

Reaching his hand across the table, Uhtred gently places it over Finan’s as he explains to the Northman their troubles with the King of Wessex. That word, connection, not sitting right with him. Maybe at one time he had seen Alfred’s vision of a untied England, but that vision has become so twisted and mangled in the King’s pursuit of it.

“I was blinded by a sense of honor and reputation, not seeing what it was the King truly sought. Even now, I can’t wrap my head around the idea that he holds some kind of affection towards me. An affection I don’t return.

He took away my wife, made me think that she had passed in childbirth. For years I had mourned her death, only to find out later that she was very much alive. I see now that he did it because he was hoping that I would seek his comfort, that it would bring us closer together.

Last Spring he had Revna taken, to my husband’s homeland.” Uhtred glances at Revna and Finan, a sorrowful look in his eyes. “He did it under the guise of securing an alliance with the King of Ulaid for the upcoming war with the North, but really, he did it in hopes that Finan would be killed by his brother. Thus removing another obstacle to his affections for me.”

Uhtred shakes his head, the heaviness of everything weighing at his heart. “I fear Alfred won’t stop in his pursuit of me…” the Dane solemnly says as he glances in his loved ones eyes.

@lagertha-lothbrok @thedarkprinceofulaid

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar nods in understanding, seeing the pain the King has caused both of these men. He can sense the guilt Lord Uhtred holds in his heart being the reason of so much strife for his family.

“At one time, I thought I could trust the King of Wessex. He offered my people land to settle, but as soon as me and my warriors left, he had them all killed. Wiping out the entire village of farmers…women and children.

I kept it a secret…” Ragnar shakes his head regretfully.

“My ambitions had shifted to Paris…my desire to raid a new land with the promise of untold riches. I knew if my people found out what had happened to the settlement in Wessex they would seek revenge. They would seek to kill the King of Wessex…” Ragnar leans back in his chair, his hand coming up to tug on his beard.

“Perhaps I should have let them…” He cocks an eyebrow at the two Lords, before huffing out a breath.

“Alfred and I shared a connection with someone I cared deeply for…we would often have discussions about the differences in our faiths and Gods. I had considered him a friend at one point. Until he betrayed me…” 

There is a flash of something in Ragnar’s deep blue eyes as he glances at those around him. Maybe a flash of heartache, of pain, or perhaps the longing of a lost love.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

“… this is a new life for us,” Finan speaks up.

“No one can penetrate this fortress. Acquiring Bebbanburg was our dream for years in the makin’, and now that we have it, a siege doesn’t stand a chance. You can be assured of that. The only reason that Björn and Ronan settled outside the fortress is because my teenager bloody insisted on it for days. And the only reason I agreed is because Lagertha is not far… So… there’s that,” the Irishman chuckles, taking a sip of ale.

“I’m not worried about Alfred. Not anymore. We have over a thousand loyal men here. He can gawk all he wants.”

Finan appraises the look in Ragnar’s eyes, seeing something deeper, perhaps something he can regretfully relate to.

[ronanofulaid]

“Who’s gawkin’?” The prince asks as he and his husband finally arrive at their own celebrations, Björn led by his hand.

“Alfred,” Finan answers.

“He may look, but…” he wags his eyebrows at Uhtred, about to finish his sentence until Björn pinches his side and he snickers.

“I think I’ll sit next to you,” Ronan tells Ragnar with a beaming smile, pouring wine before he can even take a seat.

“Hey, hey, easy on that…” Finan protests in his deep brogue.

“What is this, a monastery? Jesus,” the prince snaps back with a laugh, as Finan gives Ragnar a knowing look and a smirk telling him that he may see the prince’s real personality tonight.

@lagertha-lothbrok @bjornironsideviking

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar holds his mug up to his new son-in-law to be topped off, chuckling at the young man’s words.

“…a monastery would have better wine.” Ragnar says teasingly under his breath before quickly taking a sip from the mug.

“Hey!” Uhtred mock glares at the older Northman. “We would have better wine, if these two would quit stealing it.” Uhtred cocks his head at the younger men joining the table with an accusing look on his face.

Ragnar chuckles louder, tapping his mug with Ronan.

“Ahh…let them celebrate…” Ragnar says to the older Irishman. “If they drink too much, then it’ll be an early night for them.” He glances at his son with an eyebrow arched teasingly. Björn might be a virile young man, but even he might not withstand the effects of imbibing too much.

Clearing his throat as a seriousness comes over his face, Ragnar looks across the table at Finan. “In any event, if the King of Wessex tries to come knocking…or anyone for that matter, you have my sword at your disposal. I will do anything I can to protect my family. Including you, my best-friend’s son-in-law.” Ragnar gives Revna a little nod at a tender smile comes to his face.

@thedarkprinceofulaid @ronanofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Finan’s eyebrows perk up at Ragnar’s words, and he shares a look with Revna for a split second.

“… thank you, Ragnar.” The Irishman drawls, giving the Northman a nod and a smile.

“I would say the same for you. Yer son saved my life in my last battle… without hesitation. I think of that often. When I gave him permission to wed my own kin, it was ringin’ in my head. I’m so proud of the man he is, and uh… I will do anything to protect my family, as well.” Finan says, gesturing his hands toward everyone sitting at the table.

@lagertha-lothbrok

[ronanofulaid]

Passing some food to his husband and pouring another half glass of wine, Ronan gives Björn a wink, grinning at Uhtred’s comment about them stealing wine, then giving him a subtle kiss on the cheek when Finan mentions Björn saving his life. It was something that didn’t escape Ronan’s mind either, and he muses on it for a minute while he pours another for Ragnar.

“Do you find us as exotic as we find you?” Ronan asks Ragnar.

@bjornironsideviking @lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar quirks an eyebrow at Ronan’s question taking another sip of his wine.

He gives a little shrug of his shoulders, “Your accent is a little different than I’m used to…having spent more time around the Saxons and Danes.” the Northman grins.

“I know the Gods you worship are different than ours…different even from the Christian God my friend told me about. We celebrate the seasons much like your people, just with different customs.”

“So…yes, I’d say I find you a bit exotic….” Ragnar gives the prince a wink.

Leaning back in his chair, the Northman gives Ronan an inquisitive look. “…and what brought you and my son together?”

@ronanofulaid

[lagertha-lothbrok]

“Ragnar,” Finan drawls, coming closer and taking the Northman’s arm.

“Thank you for that. That was very kind of you to offer such a gesture to bind our families.

The prince is right. You may stay here until the Spring,” he says.

If you can maintain respect …

“Please… join me, Revna and our Lord for a drink.”

@thedarkprinceofulaid

“It’s the least I could do, to honor the joining of our families…” Ragnar glances at Revna, giving her a solemn nod. His fondness for the shieldmaiden showing in his eyes. “Your wife holds a special place in my heart, her father and mother were dear to me, and I miss them greatly. Honoring Ronan in this way, is almost like honoring them. I see the love Revna has for you and Ronan, you are both her family…and now through marriage, mine as well.” He gives Finan a little nod, a seriousness to his tone.

“I appreciate it…” Ragnar softly says as the Irishman gives his assent for him to remain in Bebbanburg until Spring. The Northman brings his hand up to tug on his beard. “…I have no desire to cause problems for Lagertha with my presence here. I just want to spend time with my son…both of them.” He lips curl into a little smile.

“I will be on my…best behavior…” Ragnar gives the Irishman a playful smirk as they walk towards the Hall.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Finan nods at Ragnar’s words, an eyebrow arching at them. Ragnar is so mysterious, so aloof that his words are surprising to the Irishman. When he speaks of Lagertha, he’d practically read Finan’s mind.

“Mhm…” he hums, interrupted by the prince when he runs up to him and tells him that he and the Northman will be heading back to their cottage before the celebrations to change into comfortable clothes.

“That’s fine.” Finan smirks, giving the Northman a distant nod from afar. He chuckles when Ronan practically skips off.

“Gods, he takes after his mother... I swear…” Finan jests, pinching Revna’s side. He drapes his arm over her side, leading her and the others inside the Hall.

“Ragnar, please help yerself to anything. And please take one of the free cottages if you haven’t already.”

Finan jumps aside, taking his Dane’s hand and giving it a kiss as he looks into his eyes. “A little bird told me what you did for the newlyweds…” he grins. “Thank you for that, beloved.”

@askuhtredragnarson @lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar consider’s Finan’s offer of a cottage, but with no woman or man to keep him company, he thinks he’d prefer to stay in the Hall. The chambers he has been sleeping in for the last few weeks have been comfortable enough. Besides, being in the Hall reminds him of home with all the people coming and going. Even though, every time he sees Revna walk past he has to do a double take.

“If you don’t mind, I’d prefer to stay here…the chambers I’ve been staying in provides me all the comfort I need. Perhaps I can be of assistance, should the need ever arise.” Ragnar offers.

He has heard through the conversations of the people in the village and the fortress that even though this place was Uhtred’s birthright, he is new to the lordship here, having only recently vanquished his cousin to claim the fortress. And already they have been attacked by the King of Wessex’s men. He can’t help but be curious of the King’s interest in the Lord of Bebbanburg. Seems he would have lands closer to his kingdom to conquer before he sets his sights so far North.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[askuhtredragnarson]

When Finan takes his hand, Uhtred gives his husband a playful smirk. It was so mesmerizing watching Finan perform the ceremony for Björn and his son. It brought back so many memories of their special day, he swears he felt the buzz in the air of the Gods walking amongst them, honoring the young men’s union.

“What little bird?” Uhtred looks around the Hall in mock confusion, a barely contained laugh bubbling from his chest.

Pulling Finan against him and giving him a proper kiss, Uhtred’s lips curl into a smile. “You’re welcome, baby…it’s the least I could do. My gift for them to make their night special. Although I doubt it’ll hold a candle to our special night. I lost count how many times…” he stops, seeing the blush rise on his husband’s cheeks.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Quirking an eyebrow at Ragnar’s request to stay in the Hall, Finan defers to Uhtred.

“Uh, yeah. If it’s alright with Lord Uhtred then it’s fine with me… absolutely.” …

The Irishman grins instantly at Uhtred’s billowing laugh. Music to his ears.

“A little baby monk bird…” Finan snickers as the Dane pulls him in for a kiss. He feels a little bashful in front of Ragnar, but he doesn’t mind his Dane marking his territory.

“Shh shh…” Finan hushes him, giving him another kiss as he blushes.

“Don’t even try to count,” the Irishman whispers to his ear, giving it a little bite. He grins again when the Dane’s hand travels down his back, giving his arse a little squeeze.

“He wants to stay in the Hall,” Finan tells Uhtred as they walk hand in hand, nodding towards Ragnar.

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

“Damn it, Osferth…so much for keeping it a secret…” Uhtred feigns a pointed glare in the baby monk’s direction, before a smirk curls his lips. He shouldn’t be surprised that his little secret got out, since he had Osferth gather the petals for him. The Dane lets out a chuckle as he shakes his head.

As Finan hushes him from revealing how many times they pleasured each other, Uhtred lets out another laugh. “You know…I could ask Revna if she has Tessa’s recipe for you know what…” Uhtred says in a conspiring tone, letting out a little cough in lieu of the words. “Would make for an interesting night for the young lovers…or perhaps we’ll keep that as our little secret.” Uhtred gives Finan a mischievous wink.

A thrill runs through Uhtred as Finan bites his ear, heat traveling down his body as his hand trails down the Irishman’s back to squeeze his arse. “Careful there, baby…” Uhtred whispers in a husky tone. “…or it won’t be just the newlyweds seeing some action tonight.” The Dane gives his husband a challenging arch of his eyebrow.

When Finan mentions that Ragnar wants to stay in the Hall, Uhtred gives the Northman a surprised look. “Oh..uh, sure…there are plenty of chambers on the lower levels of the Hall. All comfortably furnished. It would be an honor having the legendary Ragnar Lothbrok staying in Bebbanburg.

Maybe it’ll scare away some of our enemies…” Uhtred chuckles.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

“Uhtred! No! I will not be a bad influence… more than I already have,” Finan laughs.

“Our little secret.”

The Irishman smiles at Uhtred’s words to Ragnar, agreeing with him.

“It’s true… we have some enemies. But we welcome your presence here,” he agrees.

“Now, come. Everyone let us eat and drink…” the Irishman rings out. He lets Uhtred lead them into the Great Hall, taking a seat beside his husband as he takes his own seat at the head of the table. His wife sits beside him, and the others file in one by one.

“So, um… do you have any questions for us? About us, or anything in particular?” Finan asks genuinely, looking into Ragnar’s eyes.

@lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Taking a seat across from the Irishman and Revna, Ragnar cocks an eyebrow at Finan’s question. Sure there are many things he has yet to learn about the Irishman and his family. Like the story of how Revna came to be apart of their family. He never trusted her brothers and he was saddened when he learned that his best-friend’s daughter had left with them to join the Danes that settled here.

He can’t help but be curious as to how the Irishman was able to get his ex-wife to be a willing participant with someone who shares his love with multiple people. Ragnar smiles ruefully when he considers that it wasn’t the idea of multiple lovers that caused Lagertha to leave him, but more so the person. It wasn’t uncommon for them to invite others into their bed, but with Aslaug it was different. He could sense the immediate dislike between the two women, and now looking back he understands it. Regrettably so.

But the thing that stands at the forefront of his mind is the situation with the King of Wessex and his men’s attack on the village. He can’t help but be concerned given his ex-wife and sons call that village their home.

After placing some food on his plate, Ragnar glances at both Uhtred and Finan curious as to what their response might be to his questions.

“I can’t help but be curious as to why the King of Wessex would attempt to attack so far North, when there are other lands closer to his to conquer? What is his interest in Bebbanburg…or should I say who?” He raises an eyebrow inquiringly as he glances between the two Lords.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Damn, where do I even start with that…

“Uh, well…” Finan shares a look with his Lord, before bringing his gaze back to Ragnar.

“He’s hurt us greatly, in a number of manipulating ways of various severity. My Lord was Alfred’s oathman at one time, for many years. They shared a… connection,” Finan says, almost regrettably at the sound of it falling from his lips.

“Through a very unfortunate series of tribulations, he is now our sworn enemy, but he really can’t get Uhtred out of his mind. He has regrets, and just enough ego to act without a single rational thought. So he very swiftly takes every chance to win Uhtred’s favor, but he does so by hurtin’ those around him, and it only drives the wedge deeper,” Finan says.

“He wants Uhtred to forgive him. To give him another chance… but it only gets worse as the King tries to gain that favor by force,” he continues.

“There are other men that seem to have lost their way alongside him.”

@lagertha-lothbrok

[askuhtredragnarson]

Reaching his hand across the table, Uhtred gently places it over Finan’s as he explains to the Northman their troubles with the King of Wessex. That word, connection, not sitting right with him. Maybe at one time he had seen Alfred’s vision of a untied England, but that vision has become so twisted and mangled in the King’s pursuit of it.

“I was blinded by a sense of honor and reputation, not seeing what it was the King truly sought. Even now, I can’t wrap my head around the idea that he holds some kind of affection towards me. An affection I don’t return.

He took away my wife, made me think that she had passed in childbirth. For years I had mourned her death, only to find out later that she was very much alive. I see now that he did it because he was hoping that I would seek his comfort, that it would bring us closer together.

Last Spring he had Revna taken, to my husband’s homeland.” Uhtred glances at Revna and Finan, a sorrowful look in his eyes. “He did it under the guise of securing an alliance with the King of Ulaid for the upcoming war with the North, but really, he did it in hopes that Finan would be killed by his brother. Thus removing another obstacle to his affections for me.”

Uhtred shakes his head, the heaviness of everything weighing at his heart. “I fear Alfred won’t stop in his pursuit of me…” the Dane solemnly says as he glances in his loved ones eyes.

@lagertha-lothbrok @thedarkprinceofulaid

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar nods in understanding, seeing the pain the King has caused both of these men. He can sense the guilt Lord Uhtred holds in his heart being the reason of so much strife for his family.

“At one time, I thought I could trust the King of Wessex. He offered my people land to settle, but as soon as me and my warriors left, he had them all killed. Wiping out the entire village of farmers…women and children.

I kept it a secret…” Ragnar shakes his head regretfully.

“My ambitions had shifted to Paris…my desire to raid a new land with the promise of untold riches. I knew if my people found out what had happened to the settlement in Wessex they would seek revenge. They would seek to kill the King of Wessex…” Ragnar leans back in his chair, his hand coming up to tug on his beard.

“Perhaps I should have let them…” He cocks an eyebrow at the two Lords, before huffing out a breath.

“Alfred and I shared a connection with someone I cared deeply for…we would often have discussions about the differences in our faiths and Gods. I had considered him a friend at one point. Until he betrayed me…” 

There is a flash of something in Ragnar’s deep blue eyes as he glances at those around him. Maybe a flash of heartache, of pain, or perhaps the longing of a lost love.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

“… this is a new life for us,” Finan speaks up.

“No one can penetrate this fortress. Acquiring Bebbanburg was our dream for years in the makin’, and now that we have it, a siege doesn’t stand a chance. You can be assured of that. The only reason that Björn and Ronan settled outside the fortress is because my teenager bloody insisted on it for days. And the only reason I agreed is because Lagertha is not far… So… there’s that,” the Irishman chuckles, taking a sip of ale.

“I’m not worried about Alfred. Not anymore. We have over a thousand loyal men here. He can gawk all he wants.”

Finan appraises the look in Ragnar’s eyes, seeing something deeper, perhaps something he can regretfully relate to.

[ronanofulaid]

“Who’s gawkin’?” The prince asks as he and his husband finally arrive at their own celebrations, Björn led by his hand.

“Alfred,” Finan answers.

“He may look, but…” he wags his eyebrows at Uhtred, about to finish his sentence until Björn pinches his side and he snickers.

“I think I’ll sit next to you,” Ronan tells Ragnar with a beaming smile, pouring wine before he can even take a seat.

“Hey, hey, easy on that…” Finan protests in his deep brogue.

“What is this, a monastery? Jesus,” the prince snaps back with a laugh, as Finan gives Ragnar a knowing look and a smirk telling him that he may see the prince’s real personality tonight.

@lagertha-lothbrok @bjornironsideviking

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar holds his mug up to his new son-in-law to be topped off, chuckling at the young man’s words.

“…a monastery would have better wine.” Ragnar says teasingly under his breath before quickly taking a sip from the mug.

“Hey!” Uhtred mock glares at the older Northman. “We would have better wine, if these two would quit stealing it.” Uhtred cocks his head at the younger men joining the table with an accusing look on his face.

Ragnar chuckles louder, tapping his mug with Ronan.

“Ahh…let them celebrate…” Ragnar says to the older Irishman. “If they drink too much, then it’ll be an early night for them.” He glances at his son with an eyebrow arched teasingly. Björn might be a virile young man, but even he might not withstand the effects of imbibing too much.

Clearing his throat as a seriousness comes over his face, Ragnar looks across the table at Finan. “In any event, if the King of Wessex tries to come knocking…or anyone for that matter, you have my sword at your disposal. I will do anything I can to protect my family. Including you, my best-friend’s son-in-law.” Ragnar gives Revna a little nod at a tender smile comes to his face.

@thedarkprinceofulaid @ronanofulaid

[lagertha-lothbrok]

“Ragnar,” Finan drawls, coming closer and taking the Northman’s arm.

“Thank you for that. That was very kind of you to offer such a gesture to bind our families.

The prince is right. You may stay here until the Spring,” he says.

If you can maintain respect …

“Please… join me, Revna and our Lord for a drink.”

@thedarkprinceofulaid

“It’s the least I could do, to honor the joining of our families…” Ragnar glances at Revna, giving her a solemn nod. His fondness for the shieldmaiden showing in his eyes. “Your wife holds a special place in my heart, her father and mother were dear to me, and I miss them greatly. Honoring Ronan in this way, is almost like honoring them. I see the love Revna has for you and Ronan, you are both her family…and now through marriage, mine as well.” He gives Finan a little nod, a seriousness to his tone.

“I appreciate it…” Ragnar softly says as the Irishman gives his assent for him to remain in Bebbanburg until Spring. The Northman brings his hand up to tug on his beard. “…I have no desire to cause problems for Lagertha with my presence here. I just want to spend time with my son…both of them.” He lips curl into a little smile.

“I will be on my…best behavior…” Ragnar gives the Irishman a playful smirk as they walk towards the Hall.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Finan nods at Ragnar’s words, an eyebrow arching at them. Ragnar is so mysterious, so aloof that his words are surprising to the Irishman. When he speaks of Lagertha, he’d practically read Finan’s mind.

“Mhm…” he hums, interrupted by the prince when he runs up to him and tells him that he and the Northman will be heading back to their cottage before the celebrations to change into comfortable clothes.

“That’s fine.” Finan smirks, giving the Northman a distant nod from afar. He chuckles when Ronan practically skips off.

“Gods, he takes after his mother... I swear…” Finan jests, pinching Revna’s side. He drapes his arm over her side, leading her and the others inside the Hall.

“Ragnar, please help yerself to anything. And please take one of the free cottages if you haven’t already.”

Finan jumps aside, taking his Dane’s hand and giving it a kiss as he looks into his eyes. “A little bird told me what you did for the newlyweds…” he grins. “Thank you for that, beloved.”

@askuhtredragnarson @lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar consider’s Finan’s offer of a cottage, but with no woman or man to keep him company, he thinks he’d prefer to stay in the Hall. The chambers he has been sleeping in for the last few weeks have been comfortable enough. Besides, being in the Hall reminds him of home with all the people coming and going. Even though, every time he sees Revna walk past he has to do a double take.

“If you don’t mind, I’d prefer to stay here…the chambers I’ve been staying in provides me all the comfort I need. Perhaps I can be of assistance, should the need ever arise.” Ragnar offers.

He has heard through the conversations of the people in the village and the fortress that even though this place was Uhtred’s birthright, he is new to the lordship here, having only recently vanquished his cousin to claim the fortress. And already they have been attacked by the King of Wessex’s men. He can’t help but be curious of the King’s interest in the Lord of Bebbanburg. Seems he would have lands closer to his kingdom to conquer before he sets his sights so far North.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[askuhtredragnarson]

When Finan takes his hand, Uhtred gives his husband a playful smirk. It was so mesmerizing watching Finan perform the ceremony for Björn and his son. It brought back so many memories of their special day, he swears he felt the buzz in the air of the Gods walking amongst them, honoring the young men’s union.

“What little bird?” Uhtred looks around the Hall in mock confusion, a barely contained laugh bubbling from his chest.

Pulling Finan against him and giving him a proper kiss, Uhtred’s lips curl into a smile. “You’re welcome, baby…it’s the least I could do. My gift for them to make their night special. Although I doubt it’ll hold a candle to our special night. I lost count how many times…” he stops, seeing the blush rise on his husband’s cheeks.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Quirking an eyebrow at Ragnar’s request to stay in the Hall, Finan defers to Uhtred.

“Uh, yeah. If it’s alright with Lord Uhtred then it’s fine with me… absolutely.” …

The Irishman grins instantly at Uhtred’s billowing laugh. Music to his ears.

“A little baby monk bird…” Finan snickers as the Dane pulls him in for a kiss. He feels a little bashful in front of Ragnar, but he doesn’t mind his Dane marking his territory.

“Shh shh…” Finan hushes him, giving him another kiss as he blushes.

“Don’t even try to count,” the Irishman whispers to his ear, giving it a little bite. He grins again when the Dane’s hand travels down his back, giving his arse a little squeeze.

“He wants to stay in the Hall,” Finan tells Uhtred as they walk hand in hand, nodding towards Ragnar.

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

“Damn it, Osferth…so much for keeping it a secret…” Uhtred feigns a pointed glare in the baby monk’s direction, before a smirk curls his lips. He shouldn’t be surprised that his little secret got out, since he had Osferth gather the petals for him. The Dane lets out a chuckle as he shakes his head.

As Finan hushes him from revealing how many times they pleasured each other, Uhtred lets out another laugh. “You know…I could ask Revna if she has Tessa’s recipe for you know what…” Uhtred says in a conspiring tone, letting out a little cough in lieu of the words. “Would make for an interesting night for the young lovers…or perhaps we’ll keep that as our little secret.” Uhtred gives Finan a mischievous wink.

A thrill runs through Uhtred as Finan bites his ear, heat traveling down his body as his hand trails down the Irishman’s back to squeeze his arse. “Careful there, baby…” Uhtred whispers in a husky tone. “…or it won’t be just the newlyweds seeing some action tonight.” The Dane gives his husband a challenging arch of his eyebrow.

When Finan mentions that Ragnar wants to stay in the Hall, Uhtred gives the Northman a surprised look. “Oh..uh, sure…there are plenty of chambers on the lower levels of the Hall. All comfortably furnished. It would be an honor having the legendary Ragnar Lothbrok staying in Bebbanburg.

Maybe it’ll scare away some of our enemies…” Uhtred chuckles.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

“Uhtred! No! I will not be a bad influence… more than I already have,” Finan laughs.

“Our little secret.”

The Irishman smiles at Uhtred’s words to Ragnar, agreeing with him.

“It’s true… we have some enemies. But we welcome your presence here,” he agrees.

“Now, come. Everyone let us eat and drink…” the Irishman rings out. He lets Uhtred lead them into the Great Hall, taking a seat beside his husband as he takes his own seat at the head of the table. His wife sits beside him, and the others file in one by one.

“So, um… do you have any questions for us? About us, or anything in particular?” Finan asks genuinely, looking into Ragnar’s eyes.

@lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Taking a seat across from the Irishman and Revna, Ragnar cocks an eyebrow at Finan’s question. Sure there are many things he has yet to learn about the Irishman and his family. Like the story of how Revna came to be apart of their family. He never trusted her brothers and he was saddened when he learned that his best-friend’s daughter had left with them to join the Danes that settled here.

He can’t help but be curious as to how the Irishman was able to get his ex-wife to be a willing participant with someone who shares his love with multiple people. Ragnar smiles ruefully when he considers that it wasn’t the idea of multiple lovers that caused Lagertha to leave him, but more so the person. It wasn’t uncommon for them to invite others into their bed, but with Aslaug it was different. He could sense the immediate dislike between the two women, and now looking back he understands it. Regrettably so.

But the thing that stands at the forefront of his mind is the situation with the King of Wessex and his men’s attack on the village. He can’t help but be concerned given his ex-wife and sons call that village their home.

After placing some food on his plate, Ragnar glances at both Uhtred and Finan curious as to what their response might be to his questions.

“I can’t help but be curious as to why the King of Wessex would attempt to attack so far North, when there are other lands closer to his to conquer? What is his interest in Bebbanburg…or should I say who?” He raises an eyebrow inquiringly as he glances between the two Lords.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Damn, where do I even start with that…

“Uh, well…” Finan shares a look with his Lord, before bringing his gaze back to Ragnar.

“He’s hurt us greatly, in a number of manipulating ways of various severity. My Lord was Alfred’s oathman at one time, for many years. They shared a… connection,” Finan says, almost regrettably at the sound of it falling from his lips.

“Through a very unfortunate series of tribulations, he is now our sworn enemy, but he really can’t get Uhtred out of his mind. He has regrets, and just enough ego to act without a single rational thought. So he very swiftly takes every chance to win Uhtred’s favor, but he does so by hurtin’ those around him, and it only drives the wedge deeper,” Finan says.

“He wants Uhtred to forgive him. To give him another chance… but it only gets worse as the King tries to gain that favor by force,” he continues.

“There are other men that seem to have lost their way alongside him.”

@lagertha-lothbrok

[askuhtredragnarson]

Reaching his hand across the table, Uhtred gently places it over Finan’s as he explains to the Northman their troubles with the King of Wessex. That word, connection, not sitting right with him. Maybe at one time he had seen Alfred’s vision of a untied England, but that vision has become so twisted and mangled in the King’s pursuit of it.

“I was blinded by a sense of honor and reputation, not seeing what it was the King truly sought. Even now, I can’t wrap my head around the idea that he holds some kind of affection towards me. An affection I don’t return.

He took away my wife, made me think that she had passed in childbirth. For years I had mourned her death, only to find out later that she was very much alive. I see now that he did it because he was hoping that I would seek his comfort, that it would bring us closer together.

Last Spring he had Revna taken, to my husband’s homeland.” Uhtred glances at Revna and Finan, a sorrowful look in his eyes. “He did it under the guise of securing an alliance with the King of Ulaid for the upcoming war with the North, but really, he did it in hopes that Finan would be killed by his brother. Thus removing another obstacle to his affections for me.”

Uhtred shakes his head, the heaviness of everything weighing at his heart. “I fear Alfred won’t stop in his pursuit of me…” the Dane solemnly says as he glances in his loved ones eyes.

@lagertha-lothbrok @thedarkprinceofulaid

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar nods in understanding, seeing the pain the King has caused both of these men. He can sense the guilt Lord Uhtred holds in his heart being the reason of so much strife for his family.

“At one time, I thought I could trust the King of Wessex. He offered my people land to settle, but as soon as me and my warriors left, he had them all killed. Wiping out the entire village of farmers…women and children.

I kept it a secret…” Ragnar shakes his head regretfully.

“My ambitions had shifted to Paris…my desire to raid a new land with the promise of untold riches. I knew if my people found out what had happened to the settlement in Wessex they would seek revenge. They would seek to kill the King of Wessex…” Ragnar leans back in his chair, his hand coming up to tug on his beard.

“Perhaps I should have let them…” He cocks an eyebrow at the two Lords, before huffing out a breath.

“Alfred and I shared a connection with someone I cared deeply for…we would often have discussions about the differences in our faiths and Gods. I had considered him a friend at one point. Until he betrayed me…” 

There is a flash of something in Ragnar’s deep blue eyes as he glances at those around him. Maybe a flash of heartache, of pain, or perhaps the longing of a lost love.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[lagertha-lothbrok]

“Ragnar,” Finan drawls, coming closer and taking the Northman’s arm.

“Thank you for that. That was very kind of you to offer such a gesture to bind our families.

The prince is right. You may stay here until the Spring,” he says.

If you can maintain respect …

“Please… join me, Revna and our Lord for a drink.”

@thedarkprinceofulaid

“It’s the least I could do, to honor the joining of our families…” Ragnar glances at Revna, giving her a solemn nod. His fondness for the shieldmaiden showing in his eyes. “Your wife holds a special place in my heart, her father and mother were dear to me, and I miss them greatly. Honoring Ronan in this way, is almost like honoring them. I see the love Revna has for you and Ronan, you are both her family…and now through marriage, mine as well.” He gives Finan a little nod, a seriousness to his tone.

“I appreciate it…” Ragnar softly says as the Irishman gives his assent for him to remain in Bebbanburg until Spring. The Northman brings his hand up to tug on his beard. “…I have no desire to cause problems for Lagertha with my presence here. I just want to spend time with my son…both of them.” He lips curl into a little smile.

“I will be on my…best behavior…” Ragnar gives the Irishman a playful smirk as they walk towards the Hall.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Finan nods at Ragnar’s words, an eyebrow arching at them. Ragnar is so mysterious, so aloof that his words are surprising to the Irishman. When he speaks of Lagertha, he’d practically read Finan’s mind.

“Mhm…” he hums, interrupted by the prince when he runs up to him and tells him that he and the Northman will be heading back to their cottage before the celebrations to change into comfortable clothes.

“That’s fine.” Finan smirks, giving the Northman a distant nod from afar. He chuckles when Ronan practically skips off.

“Gods, he takes after his mother... I swear…” Finan jests, pinching Revna’s side. He drapes his arm over her side, leading her and the others inside the Hall.

“Ragnar, please help yerself to anything. And please take one of the free cottages if you haven’t already.”

Finan jumps aside, taking his Dane’s hand and giving it a kiss as he looks into his eyes. “A little bird told me what you did for the newlyweds…” he grins. “Thank you for that, beloved.”

@askuhtredragnarson @lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar consider’s Finan’s offer of a cottage, but with no woman or man to keep him company, he thinks he’d prefer to stay in the Hall. The chambers he has been sleeping in for the last few weeks have been comfortable enough. Besides, being in the Hall reminds him of home with all the people coming and going. Even though, every time he sees Revna walk past he has to do a double take.

“If you don’t mind, I’d prefer to stay here…the chambers I’ve been staying in provides me all the comfort I need. Perhaps I can be of assistance, should the need ever arise.” Ragnar offers.

He has heard through the conversations of the people in the village and the fortress that even though this place was Uhtred’s birthright, he is new to the lordship here, having only recently vanquished his cousin to claim the fortress. And already they have been attacked by the King of Wessex’s men. He can’t help but be curious of the King’s interest in the Lord of Bebbanburg. Seems he would have lands closer to his kingdom to conquer before he sets his sights so far North.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[askuhtredragnarson]

When Finan takes his hand, Uhtred gives his husband a playful smirk. It was so mesmerizing watching Finan perform the ceremony for Björn and his son. It brought back so many memories of their special day, he swears he felt the buzz in the air of the Gods walking amongst them, honoring the young men’s union.

“What little bird?” Uhtred looks around the Hall in mock confusion, a barely contained laugh bubbling from his chest.

Pulling Finan against him and giving him a proper kiss, Uhtred’s lips curl into a smile. “You’re welcome, baby…it’s the least I could do. My gift for them to make their night special. Although I doubt it’ll hold a candle to our special night. I lost count how many times…” he stops, seeing the blush rise on his husband’s cheeks.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Quirking an eyebrow at Ragnar’s request to stay in the Hall, Finan defers to Uhtred.

“Uh, yeah. If it’s alright with Lord Uhtred then it’s fine with me… absolutely.” …

The Irishman grins instantly at Uhtred’s billowing laugh. Music to his ears.

“A little baby monk bird…” Finan snickers as the Dane pulls him in for a kiss. He feels a little bashful in front of Ragnar, but he doesn’t mind his Dane marking his territory.

“Shh shh…” Finan hushes him, giving him another kiss as he blushes.

“Don’t even try to count,” the Irishman whispers to his ear, giving it a little bite. He grins again when the Dane’s hand travels down his back, giving his arse a little squeeze.

“He wants to stay in the Hall,” Finan tells Uhtred as they walk hand in hand, nodding towards Ragnar.

@askuhtredragnarson

[askuhtredragnarson]

“Damn it, Osferth…so much for keeping it a secret…” Uhtred feigns a pointed glare in the baby monk’s direction, before a smirk curls his lips. He shouldn’t be surprised that his little secret got out, since he had Osferth gather the petals for him. The Dane lets out a chuckle as he shakes his head.

As Finan hushes him from revealing how many times they pleasured each other, Uhtred lets out another laugh. “You know…I could ask Revna if she has Tessa’s recipe for you know what…” Uhtred says in a conspiring tone, letting out a little cough in lieu of the words. “Would make for an interesting night for the young lovers…or perhaps we’ll keep that as our little secret.” Uhtred gives Finan a mischievous wink.

A thrill runs through Uhtred as Finan bites his ear, heat traveling down his body as his hand trails down the Irishman’s back to squeeze his arse. “Careful there, baby…” Uhtred whispers in a husky tone. “…or it won’t be just the newlyweds seeing some action tonight.” The Dane gives his husband a challenging arch of his eyebrow.

When Finan mentions that Ragnar wants to stay in the Hall, Uhtred gives the Northman a surprised look. “Oh..uh, sure…there are plenty of chambers on the lower levels of the Hall. All comfortably furnished. It would be an honor having the legendary Ragnar Lothbrok staying in Bebbanburg.

Maybe it’ll scare away some of our enemies…” Uhtred chuckles.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

“Uhtred! No! I will not be a bad influence… more than I already have,” Finan laughs.

“Our little secret.”

The Irishman smiles at Uhtred’s words to Ragnar, agreeing with him.

“It’s true… we have some enemies. But we welcome your presence here,” he agrees.

“Now, come. Everyone let us eat and drink…” the Irishman rings out. He lets Uhtred lead them into the Great Hall, taking a seat beside his husband as he takes his own seat at the head of the table. His wife sits beside him, and the others file in one by one.

“So, um… do you have any questions for us? About us, or anything in particular?” Finan asks genuinely, looking into Ragnar’s eyes.

@lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Taking a seat across from the Irishman and Revna, Ragnar cocks an eyebrow at Finan’s question. Sure there are many things he has yet to learn about the Irishman and his family. Like the story of how Revna came to be apart of their family. He never trusted her brothers and he was saddened when he learned that his best-friend’s daughter had left with them to join the Danes that settled here.

He can’t help but be curious as to how the Irishman was able to get his ex-wife to be a willing participant with someone who shares his love with multiple people. Ragnar smiles ruefully when he considers that it wasn’t the idea of multiple lovers that caused Lagertha to leave him, but more so the person. It wasn’t uncommon for them to invite others into their bed, but with Aslaug it was different. He could sense the immediate dislike between the two women, and now looking back he understands it. Regrettably so.

But the thing that stands at the forefront of his mind is the situation with the King of Wessex and his men’s attack on the village. He can’t help but be concerned given his ex-wife and sons call that village their home.

After placing some food on his plate, Ragnar glances at both Uhtred and Finan curious as to what their response might be to his questions.

“I can’t help but be curious as to why the King of Wessex would attempt to attack so far North, when there are other lands closer to his to conquer? What is his interest in Bebbanburg…or should I say who?” He raises an eyebrow inquiringly as he glances between the two Lords.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[lagertha-lothbrok]

“Ragnar,” Finan drawls, coming closer and taking the Northman’s arm.

“Thank you for that. That was very kind of you to offer such a gesture to bind our families.

The prince is right. You may stay here until the Spring,” he says.

If you can maintain respect …

“Please… join me, Revna and our Lord for a drink.”

@thedarkprinceofulaid

“It’s the least I could do, to honor the joining of our families…” Ragnar glances at Revna, giving her a solemn nod. His fondness for the shieldmaiden showing in his eyes. “Your wife holds a special place in my heart, her father and mother were dear to me, and I miss them greatly. Honoring Ronan in this way, is almost like honoring them. I see the love Revna has for you and Ronan, you are both her family…and now through marriage, mine as well.” He gives Finan a little nod, a seriousness to his tone.

“I appreciate it…” Ragnar softly says as the Irishman gives his assent for him to remain in Bebbanburg until Spring. The Northman brings his hand up to tug on his beard. “…I have no desire to cause problems for Lagertha with my presence here. I just want to spend time with my son…both of them.” He lips curl into a little smile.

“I will be on my…best behavior…” Ragnar gives the Irishman a playful smirk as they walk towards the Hall.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

[thedarkprinceofulaid]

Finan nods at Ragnar’s words, an eyebrow arching at them. Ragnar is so mysterious, so aloof that his words are surprising to the Irishman. When he speaks of Lagertha, he’d practically read Finan’s mind.

“Mhm…” he hums, interrupted by the prince when he runs up to him and tells him that he and the Northman will be heading back to their cottage before the celebrations to change into comfortable clothes.

“That’s fine.” Finan smirks, giving the Northman a distant nod from afar. He chuckles when Ronan practically skips off.

“Gods, he takes after his mother... I swear…” Finan jests, pinching Revna’s side. He drapes his arm over her side, leading her and the others inside the Hall.

“Ragnar, please help yerself to anything. And please take one of the free cottages if you haven’t already.”

Finan jumps aside, taking his Dane’s hand and giving it a kiss as he looks into his eyes. “A little bird told me what you did for the newlyweds…” he grins. “Thank you for that, beloved.”

@askuhtredragnarson @lagertha-lothbrok

[lagertha-lothbrok]

Ragnar consider’s Finan’s offer of a cottage, but with no woman or man to keep him company, he thinks he’d prefer to stay in the Hall. The chambers he has been sleeping in for the last few weeks have been comfortable enough. Besides, being in the Hall reminds him of home with all the people coming and going. Even though, every time he sees Revna walk past he has to do a double take.

“If you don’t mind, I’d prefer to stay here…the chambers I’ve been staying in provides me all the comfort I need. Perhaps I can be of assistance, should the need ever arise.” Ragnar offers.

He has heard through the conversations of the people in the village and the fortress that even though this place was Uhtred’s birthright, he is new to the lordship here, having only recently vanquished his cousin to claim the fortress. And already they have been attacked by the King of Wessex’s men. He can’t help but be curious of the King’s interest in the Lord of Bebbanburg. Seems he would have lands closer to his kingdom to conquer before he sets his sights so far North.

@thedarkprinceofulaid