Revna - Shield Maiden @revnashieldmaiden - Tumblr Blog

Later that evening

After cuddling in the furs at the fireside, the prince eventually gets himself up and stokes the fire a bit while Gunnar closes up the house and readies it for bedtime. The time he shares with the Northman… it’s amazing. Cinaed feels so elated, so comfortable and so protected. The lovers take a little sponge bath with warm water and Cinaed dresses just in some linen trousers, leaving his chest bare as he goes to check on their new baby. Perhaps they’ll all have a little midnight snack before bedtime. Luca could definitely wake up hungry any minute. The poor thing was probably exhausted, and had been sleeping comfortably in their furs for a while now.

Cinaed gasps loudly and covers his mouth as he gazes at the furs. Their pup is no longer. Instead, an actual human babe sits in Luca’s place, sleeping comfortably. Still so small, and adorable.

He’s a werewolf…

“Gunnar!” Cinaed shouts for him. “Holy shit.”

Unfortunately, the Prince’s shout startles Luca, and he gives Cinaed wide eyes before erupting into a quiet cry. He still looks exhausted.

“Hey, hey… it’s okay,” the prince coos. “I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you…”

Cinaed takes a fur and wraps Luca in it, swaddling him a bit and soothing him by bouncing him in his arms.

@cinaedofulaid

Giving Cinaed a tender kiss before they move from the furs in front of the hearth, Gunnar barely stops the groan from the loss of his lover pressed against him. Feeling the steady rise and falls of Cinaed’s breaths as he rested upon his chest.

“I’ll lock up…” Gunnar offers as Cinaed gets up to stoke the fire. He places the bar across the door to prevent unwanted visitors. Going around to the windows he closes the curtains to give them privacy. Privacy he should have thought of before they made love, the warrior shakes his head ruefully, a little smirk at the corner of his lips.

For a moment, he watches as Cinaed takes a soap and rag, his eyes following the movement of the soapy cloth over his beautiful skin. Gods, it’s so erotic that Gunnar has to look away before other parts of his body gets any ideas. When Cinaed finishes with the water and rag, Gunnar does the same. He doesn’t miss the look in Cinaed’s eyes and his heart flutters in response.

While Cinaed heads into their chambers to check on the pup, Gunnar pulls out some food for a late night snack. He was just about to grab the small basket of berries when Cinaed shouts for him. The tone of his voice and his words leaving the warrior unsettled as he rushes into their chambers.

He hears the cries of a baby, and his head tilts to the side in confusion. Pups don’t cry like that. When Cinaed turns around with a baby in his arms swaddled in a fur Gunnar’s eyes widen in surprise.

“What the…”

Gunnar cautiously approaches as Cinaed bounces the little one in his arms. His thoughts going the same place his lover’s did.

“He’s a werewolf?” Gunnar asks in awe as he holds out his finger for little Luca to take as Cinaed tries to soothe his cries.

“What? How?” Gunnar utters his questions as his mind tries to process that there are others like him out there. The biggest question playing in his mind is if this is why his mother placed him in their care. Because she knew what he is.

The way Luca looks up at him, his eyes staring intently at his, makes all the questions seem insignificant. All Gunnar feels is his heart melting with how adorable he is, and how adorable his mate looks holding him.

“He’s not just our pup, he’s our baby…”

@cinaedofulaid

Cinaed’s mouth opens and closes a few times, at a loss for words and completely baffled. He didn’t expect this, and was completely shocked by it. However… it is not an unpleasant surprise.

“He’s very cute, even still…” the prince says with a grin. Luca has a small bit of fuzzy dark hair, and it looks to be that he has green eyes. Absolutely beautiful. He didn’t cry for long, either— not when he realized that everything was okay, and he heard Gunnar’s voice. It’s as if that growling Norse accent calmed him. The pup looks at him reverently, like Gunnar is…

His alpha, Cinaed thinks.

“This is fucking madness,” Cinaed whispers, grinning down at Luca as he plays with his little fingers.

“Our baby?” Cinaed turns his head, looking to Gunnar with sparkling amber eyes and a beaming smile. That idea makes his heart skip.

“Wait… to be sure, you did not father this pup, truly… did you?” The prince asks with a flash of worry in his eyes.

@gunnartjorvason

Gunnar has to agree. Luca is very cute, especially with his green eyes that almost look like twin emeralds glowing back at him. When Luca nuzzles his face against Cinaed’s chest, the warrior finds himself melting a little more. The way he calmed when Gunnar spoke surprises the Northman, but then maybe it’s the wolf inside him that the babe was responding to. The alpha.

“Our baby…” Gunnar confirms seeing the sparkle in his mate’s eyes at the idea. There is always that chance that Luca’s mother could come back. Could try to take the little one back. But that doesn’t change what Gunnar feels flaring out in his heart. This little boy is theirs. Their son.

“What!? Gods, no, baby…I would never. You are the only one I have been with since escaping captivity. The only one I have been intimate with in over 8 years…honestly, probably much longer than that.” Gunnar shakes his head at the idea.

“The only one I want to be intimate with.” Gunnar clarifies. The thought of anyone else touching him settles like a lead weight in his stomach. Cinaed is the only one he desires. The only one he trusts. The only one he loves.

“No. It has to mean there are others like me out there…” The thought of it seems so impossible. Other werewolves? Are they Norse like him? Or are they Saxon, or Dane or even Irish? It feels like his world just got a whole lot bigger. Bigger than his grandfather and his granddaughters.

@cinaedofulaid

“Thank the Gods,” Cinaed says with a smile, giving his lover an adoring gaze. The mere moment he thought Gunnar could have mated with another was terrifying. But the Northman’s devotion is so evident in his words, and in his actions.

“What a sweetheart...” Cinaed says softly, gazing down at Luca. Something mysterious and unexpected had just befallen them, and both of their instincts seem to cling to it. To steadfastly assume the roles needed. With a beaming smile, Cinaed moves to pass Luca to Gunnar, so he can hold him in his human form. The Northman looks so elated that it gives the prince goosebumps.

“He’s a werewolf… but he’s also a child. We would be raising him, Gunnar.” Cinaed says, with a reverence he palpably feels. What a serious responsibility it is. He never imagined it.

“But if you wish to raise him with me… then we will make it so.” The prince says lovingly, seeing the absolute adoration in the Northman’s eyes for him as well as the pup.

If there’s anything that Cinaed knows… it’s that Gunnar deserves this. He deserves to be hand fasted to someone who loves him more than life itself, to raise a pup of his own kind. To have everything his heart desires.

@gunnartjorvason

“I wish it.” Gunnar nods as he looks into Luca’s eyes.

Holding the babe in his arms brings back so many memories of doing the same with Revna. It reminds him of the moment he held his granddaughter, Runa, for the first time. He didn’t realize how much he missed this until it was right here in his arms. Gunnar looks up into Cinaed’s eyes with a beaming smile on his face.

“I can think of nothing that would make me happier than raising this child with you. Having a family, with you.” The Northman purrs at his mate. No matter how hard his wolf tries to pup Cinaed, it will not happen. Not because it isn’t something they want, it’s just physically impossible.

But this little bundle in his arms makes that dream possible. The dream of having a life with his beloved and being able to share in the joys of raising a child of their own. Luca may not be blood, but blood does not dictate family.

When Luca starts shifting in his arms and an upset look comes to his face, Gunnar looks down in concern. The baby’s thumb comes to his mouth and he starts to suck, but soon the start of a cry starts in the way he hiccups.

“Uh, baby…I think he’s hungry.” Gunnar looks into Cinaed’s eyes. “Not sure your rag trick is going to work with a human babe…”

Luca starts fussing even more, and Gunnar lets out a soft hum to soothe him. The melody of a lullaby he used to sing to Revna.

“What should we do?” Gunnar asks as he rocks the babe, glancing again in his lover’s eyes. Neither one of them were prepared for this. And unfortunately neither one of them are equipped to feed a baby.

@cinaedofulaid

“Nothing would make me happier either…” Cinaed purrs back to his lover. Just seeing Gunnar with Luca like that has him melting.

“… Oh,” Cinaed says as Gunnar says the pup is hungry, then Luca starts fussing.

“Don’t look at me! You’re the one who’s had children before!” The prince chimes out.

Shit…

“Uh… we’ll have to go to the fortress. Get one of the women to feed him? I don’t see any other option. God, I hate the thought of making him suffer through that journey. I didn’t plan for this!” The prince almost chuckles. Gods, what are they in for?

The fortress isn’t far, but it’s definitely not close by. If only they could get Luca to shift. They are not prepared for this at all.

“Maybe Revna will have some ideas… but we either leave now, or…” Cinaed drifts off, striding to a window. It’s not raining any longer, but it is very, very dark. Middle of the night. They could go on horseback, quickly.

“Gunnar you have to get him to shift. Or we have to go now. I don’t want him to go hungry, even for a second.”

@gunnartjorvason

Shit…

At Cinaed’s comment, Gunnar raises an eyebrow. Yes, he had children before, but he was not the one to feed them. At least not until they ate solid food. The thought of taking Luca to the fortress to find a woman to feed him made the Northman uneasy. No one outside of their inner circle knew what Gunnar was, what this child is. He’s sure in their minds werewolves are a myth. A bedtime story for children. If Luca shifts in the middle of a feeding it might scare the woman. And fear makes people do dangerous things.

“I wish I knew how to get him to shift…” Gunnar shakes his head feeling helpless for once. He had a hard enough time controlling his own shifts at the beginning, let alone trying to control someone else’s. It wasn’t a skill he ever thought he would need. It may be something ingrained in his Alpha instincts that he has yet to unlock. Now is not the time to practice. Not when Luca is hungry and fussy.

“Let’s take him to Revna.” Gunnar suggests. She is the only one he trusts in this kind of situation. And thankfully she is nursing Runa. Maybe she’ll have milk to spare.

Bundling Luca more snug in the fur, Gunnar hands him to Cinaed. I’ll prepare the horses. Rushing outside Gunnar prepares Hrímfaxi and a horse for Cinaed. Even though it’s the middle of the night, Gunnar wouldn’t be surprised if Revna is already up with Runa. He remembers the sleepless nights with newborns. When Cinaed comes out with Luca clutched tight against his chest, the Northman takes the babe while his mate mounts his horse before handing him back. He quickly mounts Hrímfaxi, turning the stallion towards the fortress.

“Let’s go, baby…” Gunnar barely utters the words before Cinaed taps his horse into motion. The babe’s cries getting louder in his arms.

@cinaedofulaid

In Gunnar’s haste, Cinaed realizes much later that they should have shared a horse, because holding a swaddled child while riding is not something Cinaed had ever practiced. Especially not in the dark! The moon and distant torches of nearby cottages is the only light guiding them, and they’re lucky for even that. The prince hopes Gunnar isn’t irate with him— he was at a loss with what to do for the little pup.

As they approach Bebbanburg’s fortress, the light of more torches illuminates the path, and gives Cinaed a little peace of mind. Luca hadn’t been too bad during the ride — but definitely anxious. Probably wondering what the hell they were doing riding him on a horse in the middle of the night.

Dismounting as they reach the gates, Cinaed shouts up to the ramparts, and when the guardsmen recognize them the large doors fall open.

“I hope she’s awake.” Cinaed says to Gunnar, before Rypere greets them by the stables.

“Your Grace,” Rypere says to Cinaed in a friendly tone, instantly recognizing him. Uhtred’s man fancied him even, from the moment they met.

“Uh… a child?” Rypere asks.

“One of our nearby neighbors is unwell. Their child needs Revna’s healing assistance.” Cinaed smiles, trying to convince Uhtred’s man of the untruth. “Thank you so much!” He says, handing the reigns of his horse to Rypere.

“My partner’s horse too, please. Thank you.”

As Gunnar and Cinaed slip away and into the fortress, the prince lets out a relieved breath.

“Hopefully that was believable. Let’s find Miss Revna.”

@gunnartjorvason

Seeing Cinaed struggling with holding Luca and guiding the horse Gunnar instantly regrets not having them ride together on Hrímfaxi. He was so worried about the little one that he wasn’t thinking straight. They ride as quickly as they safely can in the cover of darkness. As soon as the torches from the fortress come into view, Gunnar breathes a sigh of relief. He helps Cinaed dismount before his mate calls out to the guards at the gate. Thankfully they open for them at this late hour.

“I’m sure she is…” Gunnar reassures his mate. He doubts his daughter has gotten much sleep since Runa was born just a week or so ago.

When they approach the stable and Uhtred’s man Rypere greets them, Gunnar consciously tries to keep the glare from his eyes. He doesn’t miss how Rypere appraises Cinaed, and the quick smile that comes to his face. He practices restraint as his hand flexes at his side. If he makes puppy dog eyes at his mate one more time, that restraint might be quickly forgotten.

Gunnar can’t help the low growl that rumbles in his chest as Rypere takes Cinaed’s reins, his hand coming dangerously close to his beloved. This time when he hands his reins to the young man Gunnar doesn’t hide his glare.

“I doubt he was paying much attention to the babe, or your story….he only had eyes for you.” Gunnar grumbles before he stops himself. Now is not the time for a pissing contest with Uhtred’s man. Although secretly he knows he would win.

Gunnar wraps his arm around Cinaed’s waist as they take the babe inside the Hall. Dim light from candles light the main area and quiet settles around them until they hear the faint sound of a newborn’s cry. Gunnar smiles when he hears shuffling upstairs.

“See, I knew she would be awake…” He says quietly to Cinaed as he leads his prince up the stairs to Revna and Finan’s chambers.

At the door, the Northman softly knocks. Not wanting to startle his daughter and son-in-law, just announce their presence.

@cinaedofulaid

“Well he’s dim anyway, so I’m sure we’re fine.” Cinaed smirks. Rypere is kind, but he definitely doesn’t have a chance. The prince loves the little grin that rose from his lover at his little jest. He follows Gunnar up the stairs, trying to have light steps and hush Luca with little shushes and soothing motions.

The older Irishman answers the door with disheveled hair, giving the two of them furrowed brows.

“What’s goin’ on?” Finan asks in a low, sleepy drawl. He had been awake but he’s not very lucid.

“What the hell is that?”

“Da…” Cinaed says, smiling and rolling his eyes.

“It’s a child, obviously. We need Revna’s help, if she’s willing. We’d be ever grateful.”

Not really caring what’s going on, Finan holds the door open for them. There’s always some kind of mischief around here.

“Whose child is that?” Finan finally asks them as he walks them to a sitting area adjacent to his and Revna’s chamber, where his wife sits with Runa.

“He’s an orphan. But no longer… because Gunnar and I have decided to take him in. His name is Luca.” Cinaed smiles.

@gunnartjorvason

When Finan answers the door disheveled, obvious lack of sleep showing on his face, Gunnar gives him an understanding look. He remembers the sleepless nights with a newborn, even if they were so long ago. Gunnar smiles at Cinaed when Finan holds the door open for them. As they approach the sitting area where Revna is sitting with Runa, feeding the little one, an endearing smile comes to Gunnar’s face. She looks exhausted but at the same time radiant as she softly caresses Runa’s cheek.

“Father, Cinaed…” Revna looks up in surprise. “What brings you by so late?” She asks just as Cinaed reveals the bundle in his arms. A confused look quickly coming over her face.

“We found this little one in the forest this evening…abandoned.” Gunnar starts to explain.

“A baby? Alone in the forest?” Revna asks with a horrified expression. “Who would do such a thing?”

“Not exactly…” Gunnar shares a look with Cinaed, a rueful smile on his face.

“He was in a different form…a wolf pup.”

Revna looks at her father in confusion before realization dawns on her face. “A wolf pup? He-he’s a werewolf?” She immediately looks down at Runa as dread settles in her stomach. Her daughter could be the same. Most likely is. Both of them.

“Werewolves can shift this young?” Revna asks as her eyes trail from Gunnar to Cinaed. Gunnar shrugs his shoulders even though the answer seems obvious now. Gunnar can see the concern in his daughter’s eyes for her children.

“We didn’t mean to disturb you so late…it’s just, he’s hungry…” Gunnar says with pleading in his voice. “We didn’t know where else to take him. Especially given what he is.”

Revna looks down at Runa who has fallen back to sleep at her breast. She didn’t eat much, but then she still has a little stomach. Looking up at Finan, she gives him an endearing tilt of her head. She has no doubt that she has enough milk to feed two pups, and if anything it would strengthen her supply. Encourage her body to produce more. Finan gives her a look that tells her it’s her choice. The babe in Cinaed’s arms starts fussing, and she immediately recognizes the hunger sounds. Her heart goes out to him.

“My love, please take Runa…” Revna asks her husband, gently passing the little one on to him. She smiles when Finan rocks Runa in his arms before taking her to her cradle.

“I can help…” Revna softly says as she adjusts her tunic to feed the babe from her other breast. The sounds of his cries making her breast ache as if it’s her own child crying out in hunger.

When Cinaed carefully passes her the fussing babe, Revna immediately starts humming a soothing melody. Gunnar’s lip curling when he recognizes it as the same one he was humming earlier. She offers the little one her breast, and he latches on fairly quickly. Soon content feeding sounds come from him as he immediately settles.

“….and what did you say his name is?” Revna softly asks.

@cinaedofulaid

Watching on as Revna so graciously takes the pup, Cinaed feels so disappointed in himself. Helpless. For no reason other than to needlessly torture himself.

How would they be able to raise the pup when they can’t even fulfill its basic needs? Or control when he shifts? The prince feels his eyes start to get misty.

He snaps out of it when Revna asks him a question.

“Oh, um… his name is Luca. Gunnar let me name him, and I thought it sounded beautiful.” The prince says.

“We stumbled upon him in the forest. It was about to storm, and I couldn’t bear to leave him. He was a wolf pup until just under an hour ago. I can care for him as a wolf, but…

Maybe we’re not fit to care for him. Do you have any suggestions?”

@revnashieldmaiden

Revna saw the look that flashed in Cinaed’s eyes as he passed her the little boy. Disappointment. Helplessness. The fierce love for a child and the desire to protect and care for him. She understands those feelings all to well. How many times had she felt helpless when Tora was a newborn. Not knowing if she was doing things right, if she was providing everything her little girl needs. The memory of when Tora started teething flashes in her mind and how helpless she felt not knowing what was wrong and how to help her daughter. But then she remembers how Uhtred came in and offered help. Offered comfort where comfort was needed. Shared knowledge that she hadn’t learned yet. And he never made her feel like less than a mother because she needed help. Sometimes it takes a village to raise a child.

“Luca is a beautiful name for such a handsome little boy.” Revna softly purrs, her fingers lightly tracing over the babe’s cheek.

Revna furrows her brows when Cinaed says they might not be fit to care for the little one. “That is not true. You are perfectly fit to care for this little one.”

“Do you love him?” Revna doesn’t even need to ask the question, she can see the answer in Cinaed and Gunnar’s eyes.

“Just because you need help does not mean you are unfit to raise him if that is what you desire. Sometimes it takes a village to raise a little one, but it doesn’t make him any less yours.” The shieldmaiden says with conviction in her voice.

“I am happy to help in anyway I can…” Revna looks up into Cinaed’s eyes. “…but he is your son. Both of yours.”

@cinaedofulaid

Cinaed finally smiles when Revna says Luca is handsome. He really is. A very pretty child. One that will someday grow into a strong man.

The prince lets a soft sigh out through his nose when Revna speaks of them being perfectly fit to care for him. How could they be? Cinaed knows nobility. He knows war. He barely knows love, except in the last few months. What does he know of raising a child? A werewolf?

The prince tries to silence these useless thoughts. Tries to bring his mind back to the task at hand. They’d figure it out. What other option do they have?

“It’s just a lot to digest.” The prince tells Revna softy. “We live secluded. It wasn’t a long ride here… but it wasn’t short. Perhaps he should remain here,” Cinaed says sadly.

“I just want what’s best for him. I do love him… I love him for the way he lit up the eyes of my betrothed. For the feelings he brought out in me. I just don’t see how it’s possible now. Not unless Gunnar can learn to help him shift…

He’s mine. He’s ours. I can feel it, I just… I don’t know what to do.”

@revnashieldmaiden

“He belongs with you…” Revna softly says as Luca continues nursing. He is slowing down, but not quite done. Revna smiles when she sees his eyes starting to get droopy.

“Maybe you and Gunnar should stay here in the fortress for a little while. Give my father a chance to learn how to help Luca shift. I’m sure between the two of you, you can figure it out. Just like when you helped Gunnar through his shifts.” Revna gives Cinaed an encouraging smile. She knows it’s not ideal. Cinaed and Gunnar love their cottage and the privacy it affords them, and she doesn’t blame them. But sometimes we make sacrifices for those we love.

“It’s only temporary…” Revna reassures, looking at both Gunnar and Cinaed. “Just until Gunnar learns how to help Luca with his shifts. In the meantime, I can help with feeding him when he’s in his human form.”

Revna looks down at Luca’s adorable face, her fingers softly caressing his cheek. He has stopped nursing now, even though his little mouth is still making the sucking motions.

“I think he is perfect for the both of you…” Revna softly says as a tender smile comes to her face.

Securing the fur around the now sleeping babe, she hands him back to Cinaed. Her heart melting when Gunnar looks over Cinaed’s shoulder with love sparkling in his eyes as he gazes at both of him.

“There is nothing wrong with asking for help, it doesn’t make you any less a father, or a provider. Uhtred taught me that…” Revna gives her husband a loving smile as they share a knowing look.

@cinaedofulaid

Later that evening

Cinaed gasps loudly and covers his mouth as he gazes at the furs. Their pup is no longer. Instead, an actual human babe sits in Luca’s place, sleeping comfortably. Still so small, and adorable.

He’s a werewolf…

“Gunnar!” Cinaed shouts for him. “Holy shit.”

Unfortunately, the Prince’s shout startles Luca, and he gives Cinaed wide eyes before erupting into a quiet cry. He still looks exhausted.

“Hey, hey… it’s okay,” the prince coos. “I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you…”

Cinaed takes a fur and wraps Luca in it, swaddling him a bit and soothing him by bouncing him in his arms.

@cinaedofulaid

“What the…”

Gunnar cautiously approaches as Cinaed bounces the little one in his arms. His thoughts going the same place his lover’s did.

“He’s a werewolf?” Gunnar asks in awe as he holds out his finger for little Luca to take as Cinaed tries to soothe his cries.

“He’s not just our pup, he’s our baby…”

@cinaedofulaid

Cinaed’s mouth opens and closes a few times, at a loss for words and completely baffled. He didn’t expect this, and was completely shocked by it. However… it is not an unpleasant surprise.

His alpha, Cinaed thinks.

“This is fucking madness,” Cinaed whispers, grinning down at Luca as he plays with his little fingers.

“Our baby?” Cinaed turns his head, looking to Gunnar with sparkling amber eyes and a beaming smile. That idea makes his heart skip.

“Wait… to be sure, you did not father this pup, truly… did you?” The prince asks with a flash of worry in his eyes.

@gunnartjorvason

@cinaedofulaid

“He’s a werewolf… but he’s also a child. We would be raising him, Gunnar.” Cinaed says, with a reverence he palpably feels. What a serious responsibility it is. He never imagined it.

“But if you wish to raise him with me… then we will make it so.” The prince says lovingly, seeing the absolute adoration in the Northman’s eyes for him as well as the pup.

@gunnartjorvason

“I wish it.” Gunnar nods as he looks into Luca’s eyes.

“Uh, baby…I think he’s hungry.” Gunnar looks into Cinaed’s eyes. “Not sure your rag trick is going to work with a human babe…”

Luca starts fussing even more, and Gunnar lets out a soft hum to soothe him. The melody of a lullaby he used to sing to Revna.

@cinaedofulaid

“Nothing would make me happier either…” Cinaed purrs back to his lover. Just seeing Gunnar with Luca like that has him melting.

“… Oh,” Cinaed says as Gunnar says the pup is hungry, then Luca starts fussing.

“Don’t look at me! You’re the one who’s had children before!” The prince chimes out.

Shit…

The fortress isn’t far, but it’s definitely not close by. If only they could get Luca to shift. They are not prepared for this at all.

“Gunnar you have to get him to shift. Or we have to go now. I don’t want him to go hungry, even for a second.”

@gunnartjorvason

Shit…

“Let’s take him to Revna.” Gunnar suggests. She is the only one he trusts in this kind of situation. And thankfully she is nursing Runa. Maybe she’ll have milk to spare.

“Let’s go, baby…” Gunnar barely utters the words before Cinaed taps his horse into motion. The babe’s cries getting louder in his arms.

@cinaedofulaid

Dismounting as they reach the gates, Cinaed shouts up to the ramparts, and when the guardsmen recognize them the large doors fall open.

“I hope she’s awake.” Cinaed says to Gunnar, before Rypere greets them by the stables.

“Your Grace,” Rypere says to Cinaed in a friendly tone, instantly recognizing him. Uhtred’s man fancied him even, from the moment they met.

“Uh… a child?” Rypere asks.

“My partner’s horse too, please. Thank you.”

As Gunnar and Cinaed slip away and into the fortress, the prince lets out a relieved breath.

“Hopefully that was believable. Let’s find Miss Revna.”

@gunnartjorvason

“I’m sure she is…” Gunnar reassures his mate. He doubts his daughter has gotten much sleep since Runa was born just a week or so ago.

“See, I knew she would be awake…” He says quietly to Cinaed as he leads his prince up the stairs to Revna and Finan’s chambers.

At the door, the Northman softly knocks. Not wanting to startle his daughter and son-in-law, just announce their presence.

@cinaedofulaid

The older Irishman answers the door with disheveled hair, giving the two of them furrowed brows.

“What’s goin’ on?” Finan asks in a low, sleepy drawl. He had been awake but he’s not very lucid.

“What the hell is that?”

“Da…” Cinaed says, smiling and rolling his eyes.

“It’s a child, obviously. We need Revna’s help, if she’s willing. We’d be ever grateful.”

Not really caring what’s going on, Finan holds the door open for them. There’s always some kind of mischief around here.

“Whose child is that?” Finan finally asks them as he walks them to a sitting area adjacent to his and Revna’s chamber, where his wife sits with Runa.

“He’s an orphan. But no longer… because Gunnar and I have decided to take him in. His name is Luca.” Cinaed smiles.

@gunnartjorvason

“Father, Cinaed…” Revna looks up in surprise. “What brings you by so late?” She asks just as Cinaed reveals the bundle in his arms. A confused look quickly coming over her face.

“We found this little one in the forest this evening…abandoned.” Gunnar starts to explain.

“A baby? Alone in the forest?” Revna asks with a horrified expression. “Who would do such a thing?”

“Not exactly…” Gunnar shares a look with Cinaed, a rueful smile on his face.

“He was in a different form…a wolf pup.”

“We didn’t mean to disturb you so late…it’s just, he’s hungry…” Gunnar says with pleading in his voice. “We didn’t know where else to take him. Especially given what he is.”

“My love, please take Runa…” Revna asks her husband, gently passing the little one on to him. She smiles when Finan rocks Runa in his arms before taking her to her cradle.

“I can help…” Revna softly says as she adjusts her tunic to feed the babe from her other breast. The sounds of his cries making her breast ache as if it’s her own child crying out in hunger.

“….and what did you say his name is?” Revna softly asks.

@cinaedofulaid

Watching on as Revna so graciously takes the pup, Cinaed feels so disappointed in himself. Helpless. For no reason other than to needlessly torture himself.

How would they be able to raise the pup when they can’t even fulfill its basic needs? Or control when he shifts? The prince feels his eyes start to get misty.

He snaps out of it when Revna asks him a question.

“Oh, um… his name is Luca. Gunnar let me name him, and I thought it sounded beautiful.” The prince says.

“We stumbled upon him in the forest. It was about to storm, and I couldn’t bear to leave him. He was a wolf pup until just under an hour ago. I can care for him as a wolf, but…

Maybe we’re not fit to care for him. Do you have any suggestions?”

@revnashieldmaiden

“Luca is a beautiful name for such a handsome little boy.” Revna softly purrs, her fingers lightly tracing over the babe’s cheek.

Revna furrows her brows when Cinaed says they might not be fit to care for the little one. “That is not true. You are perfectly fit to care for this little one.”

“Do you love him?” Revna doesn’t even need to ask the question, she can see the answer in Cinaed and Gunnar’s eyes.

“I am happy to help in anyway I can…” Revna looks up into Cinaed’s eyes. “…but he is your son. Both of yours.”

@cinaedofulaid

After going over the supplies in her healing chamber, Revna realizes she is low on many of the herbs and plants that she will need when her pup comes. Much of it had been used to help Elle’s through her own labor, bringing Uhtred’s beautiful baby boy into the world. Lachlan is the name they chose, a lovely name representing Elle’s Scottish heritage and Uhtred’s claim to the Danes. Revna smiles as she remembers the look on Uhtred’s face when his son was born. Just one look and he was absolutely smitten. She is so happy for Elle and Uhtred, and it’s been heartwarming seeing how naturally Elle has taken to motherhood.

A sharp pain makes Revna wince, as her hand comes down to cup the bottom of her belly. She can sense that her little one won’t be far behind, and it renews her urgency to be prepared. Raspberry leaf, chamomile, and yarrow are at the top of her list of plants she needs. Rosehips if she can find it and lady’s mantle.

Tora is babbling at Hati on the floor, both of them in their own little world when Revna scoops her up. “Come, my sweet girl…lets go find your brother and gather some herbs.”

After grabbing a basket from the table, Revna leaves her healing chamber with Hati close on her heels. Knowing that her husband will be cross with her if she doesn’t bring protection, Revna calls out to Maelock and Lorcan. They have been hanging around the fortress when Cinaed is not in need of their services.

“Gentlemen,” Revna smiles. “I would like to ask for your assistance. I’m going to go fetch my son in the village and then go into the forest to gather some herbs. If you could come along for protection I’d appreciate it.

…and I promise not to make you stay behind this time.” She chuckles when she sees the worried looks on their faces after the last time she ventured into the forest.

“Don’t worry, we’ll have Ronan with us as well…” She calls over her shoulder as the men reluctantly follow.

When she gets to Ronan’s cottage, with Tora on her hip, Revna knocks on the door. “Ronan!” She softly calls out. “It’s mum…I was hoping to borrow you for a moment.”

@ronanofulaid

Mara hears the knock on the door first, jumping from her spot on the kitchen table and scampering to the front door. Ronan is busy at the hearth with some bacon over the fire, and Hali is helping him with baking. Björn is sitting at the table with Asa, helping her read runes.

“Hali, get the door please.” Ronan chirps out.

“I can’t,” Hali says, looking down at his hands and spreading his fingers. They’re thoroughly covered with sticky flour.

“Oh my god,” Ronan snickers. “More flour, less water, babe… You’re a mess.”

When Björn offers to get up, Ronan gives him a charming smile and shakes his head. He dries his hands on a towel as he strides to the door, shewing his kitty away from the door’s edge.

“Mum! Hi!” Ronan beams with shining dark eyes.

“You said you need to borrow me? Whisk me away, I beg of you.” The prince winks at her.

@revnashieldmaiden

As Ronan opens the door, Revna peeks in seeing Hali with his hands covered in dough and Björn and Asa sitting at the table.

“Wow…looks like you have your hands full!” Revna teases with a grin. “…and I thought I had my hands full with this little monster.” She tickles Tora’s belly until her little girl giggles.

“That was the plan if you can spare a moment…” Revna gives her son an endearing look. “I need to go into the forest to gather some plants and herbs and I was hoping you could come help me. Medicinal plants I need before the pup comes.” She offers in explanation.

“Maelock and Lorcan reluctantly agreed to come along…” Revna glances back at the two men loitering behind her. “Promised I would let them offer their protection without chasing them off and incurring your father’s wrath.” She lightly chuckles.

“Besides…I missed spending time with my son.” Revna gives Ronan a little wink.

@ronanofulaid

“Oh, that sounds great…” Ronan says, looking at his husband as if to beg permission. Of course he doesn’t need it, but when Björn nods and gives the prince a grin, Ronan absolutely beams.

“Yes yes yes. Let’s do it.” He says. He strides over to Hali, handing him a damp rag for his hands before kissing his head, then strides over to Björn and Asa. He kisses the little girl’s head too before sharing a kiss with his husband.

“I won’t be too long,” he smirks at Björn. “I love you.”

Stepping out into the fresh air with Revna, Ronan takes her hand and places it on his bicep as he smiles at his sister.

“Hi princess!” He beams down at Tora.

“Oh, I missed you too. Is everything goin’ good? It seems like the village has been focused on your father’s love life...” He chuckles. It’s no exaggeration, either. Everyone seemed to be invested in the wayward warrior’s romance with the even more wayward young prince, and the subsequent engagement had everyone’s attention peaked.

“… proud of you for bringin’ guards.” The prince snickers. “Father is extremely overprotective of you. And man, it’s been a hell of a year. You’re like, related to werewolves and stuff.”

@revnashieldmaiden

Revna smiles fondly as she watches Ronan give the children and his husband kisses before parting. “I will try not to keep him too long…” she gives Björn a reassuring smile.

As soon as Ronan talks to her, Tora starts reaching her little hands out to him. It’s been awhile since they have spent time together and it brings happiness to Revna’s heart seeing the closeness between them. She passes Tora over to her brother so she can fawn on him.

“Yes…everything is going well,” Revna smiles before it turns into a chuckle when Ronan mentions her father. Whom amazingly she hasn’t seen much of since he proposed to Cinaed. Not that she can blame him.

“It is quite the story isn’t it…warrior returns from the dead and falls madly in love with an Irish prince.” Revna winks at Ronan. “…and the villagers don’t even know the half of it.” As far as she knows, only the inner circle knows about Gunnar’s abilities, or the prince’s for that matter.

Walking along the path to the forest, Revna can’t help but notice Hugin and Munin circling overhead, following them on their mission. It comforts her knowing they are always watching over her. No matter where she goes.

Glancing back at Maelock and Lorcan, Revna smiles. “I didn’t want to upset your father anymore than I already have with all that talk about performing Seiðr. I promised to wait until after the little one is born. I want to know as much as possible about what Gunnar is…and what my children might be as well. The only way to find out might be speaking to my great-grandfather from beyond the veil.

…I understand his protectiveness. For both of us.” She softly says as she rubs her hand over her belly. “It’s just sometimes hard letting someone else protect me. Sometimes it’s hard to admit that I need protecting....the warrior inside of me.”

The shieldmaiden’s breath catches on another cramp, as they near the spot where the plants are that she is looking for. She hides the look of pain that crosses her features. She needs these plants, to help her through what’s to come.

“What about you? How are Björn and the children?” Revna tries to distract from the discomfort she is feeling.

@ronanofulaid

“Yes, quite the story it is.” Ronan smiles brightly. “Gunnar is really interesting, and Cinaed is absolutely besotted.”

Gods, it was an understatement. Ronan had never seen his brother this way, and it’s beautiful. He’s sure the two of them are glad that they live on the outskirts of the village.

“I can understand that,” Ronan says, bouncing Tora on his hip as they walk. “Björn is very protective too, after all he’s seen. All we’ve been through. Finan is the same.” He muses.

“Doesn’t make it easier to be a free spirit. But…” the prince tilts his head. “Perhaps the more we learn of the magic, the safer we’ll be. We’ll make preparations, and make sure everything is in order, yeah? Also… I think we know what this entails, more than you think. They’re shapeshifters.”

Looking up at the ravens overhead, Ronan feels a sense of peace come over him, Maelock and Lorcan trailing behind or not.

“We’re so good Mum,” Ronan beams. “So, so good. Björn is amazing…”

Setting Tora down so she can walk a little, the prince furrows his brows.

“So… raspberry leaf. Rosehips. Chamomile. I’m tryin’ to remember. Let’s get on it…

Woah. Wait a minute. Are you alright?” The prince suddenly asks, having had a flash of something in his vision. He could see his mother kneeling to the ground a little and clutching her belly.

“Are you in pain?”

@revnashieldmaiden

“I’m just happy they are both here, and not still in Ulaid. No matter the political fallout. It make our family feel whole…” Revna smiles. Cinaed and Gunnar belong here, with the rest of their family and it feels good having her father close by again. And seeing him happier than she has ever seen him fills her own heart with joy.

“Yes…we will continue to learn about the magic. There are so many things I want to try…once it’s safe to do so.” Revna muses as she recalls some of the things her mother has been teaching her. Gyda keeps telling her she needs to prepare, but for what she does not know yet.

“They are shapeshifters, but what all does that entail. Is it just as simple as changing form, or is there more? That is what I need to know, so I can prepare my children… and myself.” Revna looks into Ronan’s eyes with an inquiring look of her own.

“I’m so happy to hear that you and Björn are doing well. And they children look happy… I think Ragnar made a good decision taking them from Torvi.” Revna smiles. Not that she would endorse children being taken from their mother, but for some reason it felt right.

“Don’t wander too far…sweetie.” Revna smiles at Tora as her daughter takes in the plants and the sounds of the birds in the trees. Hati right beside her to make sure she is safe. “Who needs a babysitter when you have Hati…” Revna chuckles.

“…and yarrow. For bleeding…” Revna whispers the last part as a shudder runs through her that she tries to ignore.

“I’m fine…just a little discomfort. Nothing I can’t manage. The pup is resting lower and it’s just putting a lot of pressure on my pelvis.” Revna tries to reassure Ronan, although she’s not sure how convincing she is by the look on Ronan’s face.

“Walking helps…” she adds.

“As soon as we finish gathering what I need, we’ll return to the fortress and I’ll take a rest. I’ll be fine.” She places her hand on Ronan’s arm as she concentrates on her breathing for a moment, as another cramp flows through her. It only takes a moment before it calms.

“Now, let’s hurry…” she says with a sense of urgency. As she kneels down near a patch of plants to gather what she needs. Hugin is circling overhead, while Munin perches on a nearby branch as if he’s guarding.

@ronanofulaid

When Revna mentions the children, Ronan smiles, despite the mention of their biological mother. In truth, he’d thought very little of her— he had selfishly assumed his husband’s opposite role, and as long as the pups were happy, he would be as well.

“Good boy Hati,” Ronan says. He snickers when Tora says “plant” as she touches some moss on a tree. Their mother must have taught her that word recently. As they walk along, they start to be somewhat successful in their gathering.

“Yes, yarrow.” Ronan agrees. Revna had taught him so much about foraging lately, but there’s a lot to learn. He gets distracted as his mother looks increasingly uncomfortable, and the prince gives her a wide eyed look.

“Uh…” he says as Revna places a hand on his arm.

I’ll be fine. Stubborn.

“Mum… you are definitely showin’ signs of labor, and I swear to the Gods… I am not going to be alone out here with you when it happens!” The prince says dramatically.

“We have to start headin’ back. This should be enough, no? Mum I swear I can’t handle it…” he pleads with her. “I’m weak!”

@revnashieldmaiden

If it wasn’t for the discomfort that is gradually becoming more noticeable and intense, Revna would be chuckling at Ronan being dramatic. Holding out her hand, she beckons his help to stand back up. There should be enough of what she needs.

“You are stronger than you give yourself credit for.” She gives Ronan a gentle look.

As Ronan helps her to rise, another strong contraction grips her and her hand immediately goes to her belly. “You’re right…we should head back. Fetch your sister…”

Without looking up, Revna already knows that Hugin is flying towards the fortress to fetch Finan. Her ravens having become even more in tuned to her needs. While Ronan grabs Tora, despite her little squeal of protest, Revna places her hand on a tree to steady herself. The energy of the tree calms her, and she closes her eyes for a moment soaking it in. Before she opens them back up, she feels wetness running down her leg.

“Uh, Ronan…we need to go. Now.” She tries to say as calmly as possible so as not to scare her son.

Having seen the raven circling over the edge of the forest, Ragnar walks in that direction, having a sense that Revna might be out foraging. As soon as Hugin makes a bee line for the fortress, Ragnar rushes to the rest of the way, knowing the raven wouldn’t leave Revna’s side unless it’s for something important.

When he sees Revna clutching her belly, and the panicked look in his son-in-law’s eyes, Ragnar rushes in to help.

“Here. Let me take her.” Ragnar motions to Tora, taking the little girl out of Ronan’s hands so he can concentrate on helping his mother. “Don’t worry…I’ve got her.”

“Tha—thank you, Ragnar…” Revna stutters out as she tries to breathe through a contraction.

Taking Ronan’s arm in a strong grip, Revna give him a little nod. “Let’s go…it’ll be alright. Just take it slow.”

@ronanofulaid

“Okay. Alright. Okay,” Ronan says with a heightening anxious energy, immediately heading for Tora and picking her up into his arms. Even the sight of his mother leaned against a tree in that state is frightening. The guards are near, but they look just as helpless as he feels.

“Okay. Okay! Let’s go.”

Fuck.

“Oh my god, your waters...” Ronan says. Don’t panic…

“C’mon, Mum. Lean on me.” The prince says, but when he sees his father in law, he could literally melt.

“Oh Ragnar, thank the Gods…”

Handing Tora off to the Northman gives Ronan a more steely resolve as he lends his arm to the woman he loves most in the world. They take it slow, just as she says, getting closer to the forest before a blushing, grinning Irishman meets them halfway.

“It’s time, eh?!” Finan rings out in a breathy drawl.

“Wow, Ronan, you look terrible. Here…” he says, motioning Revna to come close to him as the prince rolls his eyes.

“You took the guards with you. Good girl,” Finan drawls lowly to her, beaming.

“I’m right here, darling. Not goin’ anywhere. Let’s go to the chamber and get ya comfortable, hm? Gods, I love you…” The Irishman grins.

@revnashieldmaiden

Both Revna and Ronan breath a collective sigh of relief when a grinning Finan approaches. The moment her husband takes her arm and offers her support, Revna feels a calm energy flow through her.

“…and how did you guess?” Revna teases with a beaming smile, regardless of the pain. “A little birdie tell you?”

Probably more like a big menacing black bird, she snickers to herself.

Gods, she feels like she could utterly melt against Finan’s strong body. Any fear that might have started to coil inside her, instantly dissipated having her husband by her side. She remembers how his presence, his touch helped her though Tora’s birth, and she has no doubt it’ll be the same with this pup.

“Yes…I was a good girl.” Revna smirks. “I didn’t chase them off.

…I think they are a little afraid of you.” She whispers to Finan as she glances at Maelock and Lorcan, a mischievous smile on her face.

“Gods, yes, my love. Our chamber. And hopefully this little one doesn’t keep me up all night in labor like their sister did.” Revna has a feeling that won’t be the case. Her body knows better what to do this time.

“I love you so much too,” Revna gazes lovingly at her husband. “Are you ready to become a father again?” It’s really not a question. She can already see the excitement in Finan’s eyes to welcome their newest pup into the world.

“Ronan, you should probably go let Lagertha know it’s time. We’ll need her help to deliver the babe.” Revna softly instructs her son.

Ragnar walks beside them to the fortress, giving Revna a proud look in-between making silly faces at Tora to make her giggle and keep her calm. Hati practically on his heels making sure the little girl is safe.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

“Yes, a huge black raven scared me half t’ death by cawing through the window,” Finan chuckles.

“After that, I just knew. The guards told me ya went to the forest. And yes, they better be afraid of me…”

“Oh I’m sure they are,” Ronan says sardonically.

“Hey, shush yer mouth.”

Wrapping a strong arm around Revna, Finan beams with excitement, then gives her his trademark furrowed brows whenever they have to slow down a bit.

“I’m definitely ready to be a father again darling… as many times as ya bless me with it. Gods willin’ this place will be full of pups. Hell, it already is. Uhtred is smitten with lil’ Lach, and Tora will finally have some friends.” Finan says. He chuckles when he sees Ragnar entertaining Tora.

“Yes Mum, I’ll go on ahead and grab her!” Ronan says, deciding to move into a jog. Finan, Revna, Ragnar, and Tora reach the fortress slowly, and the Irishman thinks perhaps the walking might have even helped his wife endure the pains of labor starting.

“Upstairs in ours? Or downstairs in yer healing chamber?” Finan asks her when they reach the Hall.

@revnashieldmaiden

“It’s so heartwarming to see all the little ones we have been blessed with.” Revna smiles up at Finan. She is excited for Tora to have siblings and friends her age to play and grow up with. She can’t help but remember how lonely it would have been for herself if she wouldn’t of have Björn and his sister to play with. Especially since her own brother’s wanted nothing to do with her other than to pick on her and call her names.

As they enter the Hall, Revna breathes a sigh of relief. She can feel the pressure building and the contractions are getting stronger, but thankfully the pain is still manageable. Whether Finan wants to admit it or not, Revna can’t help but think it’s in part his fae energy that helps calm her and lessens the pain. Just having his arm wrapped around she has noticed a difference.

“I think I would feel more comfortable in our chamber…” Revna answers Finan’s question. Even though all the supplies they might need are readily available in her healing chamber, it’s not where she would feel most at peace and relaxed.

“We can send servants to fetch water and linens, and most of the herbs I need are in this basket. If there is anything else we need, we can have Ronan fetch it. He pretty much knows where everything is.” Revna comments as Finan helps her towards the stairs.

She pauses at the bottom step as another contraction grips her and she grits her teeth through the pain. Once it lessens it’s hold on her she gives Finan a little nod that they can continue up the stairs.

“I have a feeling this one is going to come quicker than Tora did…maybe the long walk helped.” …and the time in nature.

Ragnar takes Tora to the hearth and sits in one of the chairs with their daughter in his lap. He gives Finan a nod as if to say he’ll watch over her, and not to worry.

“Is Uhtred in his chamber? You mentioned he wanted to be with us when the little one comes.” Revna inquires as she looks up into Finan’s eyes. She remembered Finan asking if it would be alright with her if the Dane was with them when their pup was born, and she felt touched that Uhtred wanted to be a part it. To share in this special moment with his husband.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

Helping Revna up the stairs, Finan nods gratefully to Ragnar for taking care of Tora before leading his wife through their chamber doors. It already looks cozy — plenty of blankets and furs, and the servants are already bustling with the news of labor, readying the room.

“I do hope it’s quicker, for your sake, darling…” Finan muses. He leads her to the bed, allowing Revna to sit down for a break. He sets their herb basket next to her bedside, and prays that Ronan and Lagertha can take care of that part for him, because he truly has no idea.

“Yes! Let me get him. Lagertha should be here any minute…”

Without even knocking, Finan enters the Dane’s chamber next door with an excited look.

“Lord, it’s time. The babe is comin’!” The Irishman rings out. “Please join us,” he says lovingly as he witnesses the excitement come across Uhtred’s eyes.

“Shit… I should tell Revna’s father. He wasn’t here for Tora… he should be close for this.”

@askuhtredragnarson

Looking up from the little toy he is carving, excitement comes to Uhtred’s face. Two babes is just a few weeks time. Setting aside the toy he is making for little Loch, he jumps to his feet beaming at his husband. Gods, he’s so excited to share in this special moment with Finan and Revna, just like when they were there for him and Elle.

“It’s time?” He asks, even though he can see the excitement in Finan’s eyes that it is. He had a feeling Revna was getting close, especially with how low the pup was resting in her belly.

“Send one of the guardsmen to fetch Gunnar. I’m sure Cinaed would like to be close by too.” Uhtred suggests before looking over the rail to the downstairs and calling out to Maelock.

“Hey! Maelock! Go tell Gunnar and Cinaed it’s time. Revna’s having the pup.” He orders, giving Finan a playful smirk. Fuck, this is so exciting…

While Finan fetches Uhtred, Revna makes herself more comfortable, kicking off her shoes and removing her gown. She grabs a light robe to wrap around her shift until it gets closer to time for her to start pushing. Pacing in the bed chambers, she focuses on her breathing each time a contraction comes on. She starts counting between each one to see how far apart they are, and its about five minutes.

“You are an impatient one aren’t you…” She softly murmurs as she rubs her belly, a smile curling her lips. She has no doubt with how quickly things are progressing the babe will be born before nightfall.

"Just wait for Lagertha to get here, little one." Revna grunts out as another contraction rips through her.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

“Uhtred is here,” Finan smiles as he enters the chamber again, his Lord behind him.

“We’ve sent for Gunnar. If you’re comfortable with that?” Finan asks, but he knows of course his wife is. Her father was presumed dead when Tora was born, so he can imagine that the thought of Gunnar now being here brings her so much happiness.

“There she is!” The Irishman rings out as Lagertha then enters the chamber.

***

Maelock has to literally sprint to make it to Gunnar and Cinaed’s on the outskirts of the village. The prince can just barely hear his faint calls as him and Gunnar blissfully clear their yard for a garden they plan to make.

“Revna’s baby is comin’!”

“Gunnar, oh my god,” Cinaed says. “Sh-should we go?! Hurry, grab your boots!”

@revnashieldmaiden @gunnartjorvason @askuhtredragnarson

When Finan and Uhtred enter the chamber, Revna pauses her pacing for a moment to give Uhtred’s hand a little squeeze. “I’m so glad your here…your support means the world to me and Finan.” She smiles up at the Dane.

“Thank you, my love…for fetching my father.” Revna gives Finan a loving smile, she’s so happy that her father gets to be here for the birth of their child.

“The contractions are getting closer…Lagertha better hurry. It seems this little one doesn’t want to wait for anyone…” Revna looks into her husband’s warm eyes.

Just as she says that, there is a knock on the door and Lagertha pokes her head in. “I hear there is a babe coming?” She grins as she looks from Revna to Finan, her excitement for them shining in her eyes.

Revna breathes a sigh of relief when she sees her mentor. “Yes…and the contractions are getting closer and closer. This pup is anxious to be born.” The shieldmaiden huffs out a breath as another contraction hits her.

Lagertha’s eyes turn serious at Revna’s words, as she heads to the basin of water to wash her hands. “Do you feel like you need to bear down yet?” Lagertha turns her head to look at Revna.

“Uh…no. Not yet…but the pressure is getting stronger…” Revna’s voice cracks as she tries to stifle the pain.

Seeing the pain in Revna’s eyes, Lagertha grabs some of the raspberry leaves, chamomile and mint in her basket of medicinal plants, before taking them to Uhtred. “Crush and brew these into a tea…it will help with the pain and give her strength.”

Uhtred takes the plants and nods, happy to help in any way he can. He grabs a mug and fills it with hot water from the pot over the mantle.

“Revna, sweetie, climb up on the bed and I’ll check you.” Lagertha pats the furs and waits as Finan helps Revna to lay back on the furs.

“I’ll be gentle…” Lagertha softly reassures Revna, as she moves her hand under Revna’s shift to exam her. A pensive look comes to the older shieldmaiden’s face as her fingers move inside of Revna, judging how close the baby is to coming.

“You’re right…this pup is anxious to be born. You’re almost fully opened…just a little longer to go and then the pup will move into the birth canal…” She glances up into Finan’s eyes as he holds Revna’s hand, giving the Irishman a reassuring smile.

“Have you two thought of any names yet?” She smirks, knowing they will need them sooner rather than later.

***

When Maelock calls out to them, it takes a moment for his words to register in the Northman’s mind.

Revna’s baby is coming…

Gunnar stares in shock at the guardsman. He knew this day would be coming soon, having noticed the shift in Revna’s pup to a lower position. Excitement flutters in his chest, as well as a little curling of fear.

Revna is strong…she will be alright. Both of them will.

Gunnar repeats in his mind to himself over and over again. Cinaed’s words stir him from his initial shock.

“Oh, shit…yes, my boots…” Gunnar runs inside to fetch them as well as a tunic. It was a particularly warm day working on the garden, plus he took a little run in the woods, so he only had on trousers.

“Yes, baby…Lets go. So I can meet my new grandchild, and you can meet your new sibling.” He beams at his mate as he takes Cinaed’s hand.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

“Thank you, for being here…” Finan says to Lagertha lovingly. She is his greatest friend, and confidant. His second in command, even still. The men give the women privacy as Lagertha exams Revna, and when she assures them that the pup isn’t long away, Finan beams and wags his eyebrows.

“Wow… good work already darling. You let me know when yer ready and we’ll do like last time, okay?” The Irishman says, remembering it like it was yesterday. He practically held Revna’s stance in support, and she was so, so strong.

“Go ahead and come up, gorgeous,” Finan drawls, lending his hand to Revna. He knows that standing will make it easier, and perhaps move things along. Laying on her back can’t be too comfortable, but he’s unsure. He’ll let her guide him.

“Uhtred… come to her other side,” Finan says, before a knock at the door somewhat startles him.

“Hello,” Elle says shyly with a big smile, blushing when she catches Uhtred’s gaze. “I wanted to give my well wishes, and offer any assistance. I’ll be waiting just outside… I don’t want to crowd you,” she says gently.

“Anything you need from the ladies?” Finan asks Revna, and then there’s another knock at the door. Jesus, their family is so big. The person doesn’t come in, so Finan strides to it.

“Gunnar,” the Irishman steps out of the door, grinning.

“Everything is going well. Not far now.”

@revnashieldmaiden

Taking Finan’s hand, Revna lets him help her up. Almost there. Gods, when she woke up this morning she never imagined she would be greeting her little one this evening. She should have known that the cramps she had been feeling last night and earlier today was her labor starting, but she has had so many false labor pains for the last week or so that she didn’t pay it any heed.

Until now. Letting out a little grunt as she gets back on her feet to resume her pacing, Revna’s movements become slower as the pain starts to grip her more steadily. Uhtred approaches with the tea, and she gratefully takes it.

“Thank you, Uhtred…” she softly says as she takes a small sip. A little smile curling her lips despite the pain when she tastes a hint of honey in the tea. “Ahh…you sweetened it.” Her smile deepens as a little blush blooms on Uhtred’s cheeks. She thought perhaps he would get back at her for all the times he had to drink the bitter tea to help him heal from his battle wounds.

With Finan’s arm around her waist offering support, Revna wraps an arm around Uhtred’s on the other side of her. The strength of two men giving her support and courage for what is coming next. Hearing the knock on the door, Revna’s head comes up and a smile instantly comes to her face seeing her friend.

“Elle, you’re so sweet. You should be resting…” Revna softly says with concern in her voice while her heart fills with warmth at Elle’s offer of assistance. She gives the Princess a look of gratitude and a warm smile. “Thank you…” Revna says with sincerity and she means it. Having the support of women like Elle and Lagertha means so much to her.

When another knock sounds at the door, Revna can’t help but snicker at the look on Finan’s face. She can practically read his thoughts, our family is so big. Revna sucks in a breath when she hears Finan call out Gunnar’s name, a little mistiness coming to her eyes. Her father is here. He didn’t get to be here for when Tora was born, but he’s here now. Gods, her heart feels so full with all of this love and support.

Gunnar glances into the room and he takes in a breath of relief. Seeing Revna standing and walking around, he is impressed with how strong she looks. How well she is handling the pain.

“Good…good.” Gunnar nods at Finan as a smile curls his lips. He approaches Revna as she holds on to Uhtred’s arm and Finan takes his place again at her other side. He cups Revna’s cheeks and places a gentle kiss on her forehead.

“You’ve got this, little raven. You are so strong. I love you so much and I can’t wait to meet my grandchild.” He shares a look with Finan then Uhtred, saying with his eyes what he can’t voice out loud. Not wanting to breathe life into fears of the past. Silently thanking both of them for being at Revna’s side and helping her through her labor.

“I’ll be downstairs with Ragnar and Tora. Gotta make sure he doesn’t feed her a bunch of sweets and get her all wound up." Gunnar lets out a little chuckle. "Cinaed and I will both be waiting for word.” He gives Finan a little nod, entrusting his daughter into the Irishman’s hands.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

Finan smiles tenderly at Gunnar, respecting the trust he puts in him, and happy for his wife that he gets to be here. But damn, is it hectic.

“Alright, people… everyone clear out, wait in the Hall. Only the ones Revna wants here will remain. It’s an intimate thing, yeah? C’mon…” Finan drawls, feigning shewing people out, but it’s really more for Revna’s comfort and to establish a boundary right away for her. So many people they love are here, but he thinks perhaps it’s hard enough for his wife with a few of them closely watching.

Finan could see something in Gunnar’s eyes. Fear, perhaps. The Irishman would be lying if he said that same fear didn’t resonate within him. Hell, he worries about Revna constantly. She’s wild, and he can barely tame her. It’s just another thing he loves about her. He’ll always be so damned fearful for her, and his sweet little girl. His two beautiful boys.

Fuck, being a parent is hard. But it’s worth it. And what Revna has to go through is harder.

When Lagertha comes closer and gives him a knowing look, the Irishman takes a deep breath through his nose.

“You ready for this, darling? I’m right here,” he purrs, squeezing Revna’s hand.

@revnashieldmaiden

Seeing the sweat beading on Revna’s forehead, and the way the younger shieldmaiden is gritting her teeth as a growl of pain tries to escape, Lagertha thinks she may be progressing faster than she realized.

“Breathe, Revna…” Lagertha tries to soothe her. “I’m going to check you again, just stand still for me for a moment.”

Revna nods her head instead of speaking, her hand tightening in Finan’s, almost crushing his fingers together. To his credit, Finan doesn’t say a word. The pup feels like it’s right there, like if she squatted down it would just slide out. She forces herself to take a deep, slow breath while Lagertha kneels down and her hand slips under her shift.

Lagertha’s eyes widen in surprise as her fingers enter Revna. She can already feel the top of the pup’s head coming down. Removing her fingers quickly, her eyes come up to Revna and Finan’s. “It’s time, sweetie. Find a comfortable position and it’s time to start pushing.”

Both Finan and Uhtred help ease her to a kneeling position over a cloth laid out for her on the floor. Finan in front of Revna, letting her wrap her arms around his neck as she nuzzles her face against his cheek. Breathing his woodsy scent and the feel of his skin touching her helping to dull the pain.

You may try to deny the fae inside of you, my love…but I can feel it.

“I love you so much…” Revna softly whispers in Finan’s ear. Having him here, holding her, offering his support fills her heart with so much love.

“Uhtred, grab me that basin of water, and a sterile knife. Heat the blade in the fire until it’s hot.” Lagertha instructs the Dane while she reaches behind her to grab a stack of linens and a blanket for the babe.

Giving Revna a soft pat on her thigh, Lagertha arranges her shift so she has access. “Let your body guide you. When you feel like it’s time to push, push. When it tells you to pause, then pause. If you follow your body’s cues there will be less chance for tearing….less blood.” Lagertha swallows thickly around the last word as memories flash in her mind that she quickly pushes away.

“I will wait to cut the cord until you tell me to…it will make the babe stronger if it’s able to absorb everything it can from the fylgja.”

Revna nods at Lagertha’s words. She loves that her mentor is giving her a voice in how the birth goes.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

“You can do this,” Finan purrs, wrapping his arms around Revna and letting her nuzzle close and wrap her arms around his neck.

“I love you so much. You’re so strong… I’m right here.” He says, his fingertips glowing just faintly where they touch Revna’s body. Gods, he did this to her, so much pain, and she’s whispering that she loves him. There’s no one else for him but her. She’s perfect…

“That’s it, darling. Breathe. You’ve got it…”

Finan vaguely pays attention to what Lagertha says, but he relies on Uhtred for it mostly. All of his energy is focused and centered on his wife. He feels like he can feel her energy through his hands, and she is doing so good… she only needs to hold on a little longer. It happens some time in the in between, the birth, but Finan is still focused on his woman. No matter what.

“Lagertha,” Finan says gently for an update, so that he can keep his focus and energy on Revna.

@revnashieldmaiden

Focusing on Finan’s encouraging words soothes Revna as the pain becomes unbearable. The energy flowing through her from his touch is still helping to dull the pain, but she can tell she’s getting to the most painful part as low growls rumble from her chest.

“Gods…” she grits out on a strong contraction. Her hands tighten around Finan’s neck as her legs start trembling beneath her. She barely hears her husband say Lagertha’s name as everything around fades and the pain starts to swallow her.

Placing her hand on the small of Revna’s back, Lagertha leans forward to softly speak to Revna. “I’m going to check you again, alright…” The younger shieldmaiden barely nods her head, and Lagertha takes that as the cue.

This time when she checks Revna, she doesn’t have to stick her fingers in very far. The babe is almost crowning. Dark hair near Revna’s opening.

“The babe is almost here…” Lagertha says excitedly. “I can see their hair.” She grins at Finan when their eyes meet. “You’re doing so good, Revna, but now is the time you’ll want to pause and breathe. Give your body a chance to stretch before we push again.”

Revna nods her head in understanding even as a whimper falls from her lips. She notices out of the corner of her eyes Uhtred crouching nearer to help Lagertha when the baby comes.

Revna lets out a scream at the burn as the pup’s head crowns. Her hands gripping Finan even tighter she wouldn’t be surprised if she leaves bruises behind.

“That’s it, Revna…on the next contraction, push.” Lagertha guides her. Gods, she is so proud of Revna. She is handling this so calmly, even with her screams of pain. “I’d say you’ve done this before…” the older Shieldmaiden teases as he gives Finan a little wink.

Revna feels the urge to bear down and she gives into it. Lagertha’s words to push echoing in her mind. Gritting her teeth she does just that.

“Yes, Revna…just like that, the pup is coming….the head is out. Just one more little push.” Lagertha coaches. Revna lets out another whine that turns into a growl as she pushes again.

Lagertha catches the pup as it slides into her hands, quickly clearing the mouth free so the little one can breathe. “You did it, Revna! You did it…you have a beautiful baby girl.” Lagertha grins at Finan.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

Yes, she’s done it before and she’s a fucking angel.

Gods, hearing his wife’s screams of pain is hard. But not as hard as what she’s going through. She is so fucking tough for this, and even though it’s happening faster this time, it doesn’t necessarily make it easier. Fuck, it hurts to see her in pain.

Finan doesn’t think he’s ever loved someone so much.

As Lagertha catches the babe, Revna’s legs are so shaky that Finan takes his strong arms around her more firmly. He resists the urge to completely take her up into his arms for fear of hurting her, then feels his eyes burn with tears as the Shieldmaiden announces that they have a beautiful baby girl. Of course they possibly don’t want to cut the cord yet either.

“Oh my god,” Finan rasps out. He’s amazed, and he wants to see the pup, but all he can think about is Revna. How amazing she is… how perfect.

“You gorgeous angel, my strong wife…” Finan purrs.

“Can I pick you up? Can I lay you in bed so you can see our daughter?” The Irishman asks gently, kissing Revna’s hair.

“The second beautiful angel you’ve given me. Of course it’s a girl… another you for me to love and cherish…”

@revnashieldmaiden

Passing the pup to Uhtred, who holds the babe in utter awe and gets teary eyed as he looks into his husband’s eyes, Lagertha rubs Revna’s back and lower belly. While Lagertha focuses again on Revna, Uhtred holds the squirming little girl, her cries of protest shrieking through the room.

“Damn, baby…she got some lungs on her like her father.” The Dane teases, breathing a sigh of relief that she is breathing and sounds strong.

“Just one more little push, Revna…for the fylgja.” Lagertha instructs placing a basin underneath Revna. Once the afterbirth has been expelled, the Shieldmaiden gives Finan a nod that it’s okay to move Revna.

“Yes, Finan…you can pick me up. I want to see our daughter…” Revna softly says as her hands stay locked around her husband’s neck. She melts against Finan as exhaustion takes over. Feeling the strength of her husband as he picks her up and carries her to the bed brings a smile to her face.

“A girl…” Revna smiles feeling her heart flutter at the thought. Another little girl for the boys to fawn over and her husband to cherish. She cups Finan’s cheek as she brings his lips to hers for a kiss. She is so elated that their daughter is here, and she sounds strong by her cries. Revna can already feel the ache in her breasts as her body naturally responds to her baby’s cry.

Lagertha helps Uhtred clean the little girl, despite her protests. The shieldmaiden humming a comforting melody. Uhtred can’t wipe the grin off his face, holding his beloved’s daughter.

“Revna, the cord has stopped pulsing. Do you want us to cut it now?” Lagertha looks at Revna as the Irishman lays her in the comfort of her furs.

“Yes, Lagertha…please. I want to hold her…” Revna says anxiously.

As soon as the cord is cut, Uhtred brings the angry little girl to their parents. He helps lay the babe on Revna’s bared chest so they can have skin to skin contact. As soon as the babe touches Revna’s chest, her cries stop and turn into little whimpers, quickly soothed by Revna and Finan's touch.

“She’s here, my love…” Revna smiles up at Finan, tears already misting her eyes. Gods, her heart feels so full.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

“Oh, shush yer mouth.” Finan grins as Uhtred teases him. He gently lifts Revna into his arms, carries her to the bed, and runs very gentle soothing circles on her belly with his hand once she’s comfortable. No complications… all happiness. His wife looked a little pale earlier, and now she is absolutely glowing.

“Táim chomh bródúil asat…” the Irishman purrs for Revna’s ears only. “Is breá liom tú níos mó ná aon rud a bhfuil aithne agam air riamh…”

For Finan, even seeing Uhtred be the first to hold his daughter with that beautiful grin on his face has to be a dream. The little pup has dark hair — hard to tell which of her parents she’s taking after.

“Oh she is goin’ to love you both…” Finan winks at Uhtred, then Lagertha. “How can I ever repay such loyalty and love from you?” he shakes his head.

“There she is darling,” Finan drawls, beaming as Lagertha sets their daughter on Revna’s chest. She’s so tiny, but very healthy.

“She’s perfect.” The Irishman purrs, wiping a tear from his eye.

@revnashieldmaiden

Warmth floods Revna at Finan’s words as a blush colors her cheeks. His Irish brogue and native language like a soft caress over her heart.

“Ní bheadh mé in ann é a dhéanamh gan tú... do theagmháil, do láithreacht...chuir sé suaimhneas orm ar bhealaí nach féidir liom a mhíniú.” Revna purrs as she looks lovingly into her husband’s eyes. She takes his hand bringing it to her lips for a gentle kiss. She can still feel the energy and warmth radiating from his hand that soothed so much of her pain as she nuzzles her cheek against it.

“Is breá liom tú go mór, a fhear céile milis.” Revna gives Finan an adoring smile.

Lagertha shares a look with Uhtred as a big grin comes to her face at Finan’s words. “I think that’s his way of saying we should expect a lot of babysitting duty…” she teases the Dane. She still remembers that time Uhtred and Osferth watched over little Tora. Now there are three little ones to watch over.

“You’re going to have your hands full…” Lagertha pinches Uhtred’s side to which the Dane laughs.

“Yeah, but I’m going to love every minute of it.” Uhtred beams at Finan. With his son and Finan’s little girl being only weeks apart, he has a feeling they are going to be very close. And he feels over the moon about it.

Revna stares in awe at their little girl as she lays on her chest. She immediately counts her little fingers and toes, and runs her fingers over their daughter’s hair. It’s not quite black like hers and Tora’s, but it’s close.

“What are we going to call her?” Revna looks up into her husband’s eyes. They had discussed a few names, but hadn’t quite settled on one yet. Now would be the time.

Revna feels their little girl rooting around on her chest and she guides her to one of her breasts. She latches on beautifully and it gives Revna another flutter in his stomach and heart.

“She’s so strong…” Revna says in awe, amazed that her and Finan made this perfect little being.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

Nuzzling into the furs beside Revna, Finan gives Uhtred and Lagertha a beaming, warm smile. He scoots close so he can look below at the absolute miracle at Revna’s chest. He moves one of his fingers closer to his little girl’s palm and grins when she grasps it.

“Gods, she’s amazing... What to call her…” the Irishman smiles.

“Runa. The name we spoke of before. It’s beautiful, just like her, and it sounds like yours.”

Finan had been drawn to the name for months now. As if he already knew. He has a feeling Revna will agree, with her affinity towards magic, and how beautifully it slips off the tongue.

“What do you think?” Finan asks his wife, then looks at Uhtred.

“Lachlan and Runa.”

Gods, the thought of it gives Finan goosebumps instantly. He and Uhtred having children born mere weeks apart is so exciting.

“One day he’ll fall completely in love with her. I can see it now.” The Irishman grins. Gods, he best not curse himself before the day actually comes.

@revnashieldmaiden

@askuhtredragnarson

askuhtredragnarson

“Yes, her name will be Runa…secret lore.” Revna says softly as her fingers gently brush over Runa’s dark hair. There is a slight curl in her hair that almost reminds her of Cinaed.

“Runa… it’s beautiful.” Uhtred agrees as he smiles adoringly at his husband. Their husband. He turns his smile to Revna as he watches the shieldmaiden nod in agreement. Gods, he adores his family and he is so happy that he got to be a part of witnessing Runa’s birth.

Uhtred lets out a chuckle when Finan says, Lachlan and Runa, as if it’s already written in the stars.

“Watch yourself, baby…” Uhtred warns with a big grin on his face. “We’re going to have to watch them like a hawk when they get older.”

Honestly, Uhtred could think of nothing better. His son, and Finan’s daughter. Keeping the bonds between them alive into the next generation.

“Well, before you two start planning weddings and such, maybe we should let the rest of the family know she has arrived. I’m sure they are all anxiously waiting.” Revna smirks at Uhtred and Finan.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

“God, I know. The boys have given me heart sickness enough, and now, the girls…” the Irishman muses to Uhtred.

“I’m really in for it, aren’t I?”

After a few laughs, Finan nods at Revna. Everything is settled and comfortable, and it’s perhaps time to show off their beautiful baby girl.

“Oh my god…” Ronan gasps, his eyes beaming at Runa in Revna’s arms. Björn stands beside him, chuckling at the prince’s shock and awe.

“A girl… little angel! Eek!”

As the elder prince and his husband fawn over Runa, Finan steps out to the hallway to grab Gunnar, and a hesitant young prince.

“Come meet yer granddaughter.” Finan grins at the Northman. “You too, mo mhac.”

@gunnartjorvason @revnashieldmaiden

Ever since leaving Revna in the capable hands of her husband and his old friend, Lagertha, the warrior has been pacing nervously back and forth down the hall. Cinaed has teased him that he’s going to wear marks into the floorboards with all his pacing, but he can’t help it. Even his wolf is unsettled as worry gnaws at him.

When Finan steps out with a big grin on his face, Gunnar finally takes in a shuddering breath. Relief instantly flooding his chest.

“Granddaughter?” A grin comes to the warrior’s face. He takes Cinaed’s hand in his bringing it up to his lips for a kiss. His heart pounding in his chest in excitement. Another little girl.

“Baby…you have another sister.” Gunnar beams at his beloved as he gives Cinaed a little tug to join him.

As soon as they enter the chambers, Gunnar’s breath is stolen by the sight before him. His beautiful daughter holding her adorable little girl. Revna smiles at both of them as she motions for them to come closer. Gunnar kneels down at the edge of the bed as his tattooed fingers softly brush over the little girl’s head.

“Her name?” Gunnar softly asks as he looks into Revna’s bright blue eyes shimmering with happiness, and a little tiredness from the labor.

“Runa…” Revna says almost reverently, as if she already senses her daughter to be destined for great things.

“Runa…she’s beautiful. Just like her mother…” Gunnar beams at his daughter.

“Look, CInaed…she has your curls.” The Northman looks up at his betrothed, an adoring smile on his face. Gods, he is so proud and happy. Such a beautiful family surrounding him.

@cinaedofulaid @thedarkprinceofulaid

Finan blissfully watches on as Gunnar sits at Revna’s bedside and his wife reveals their daughter’s name to him. The Northman looks so happy…

The Irishman drapes heavy arms over both of his boy’s shoulders, pulling them in close and giving them a few big smooches to their heads as Uhtred laughs at their absolute revolt. Finan is way too happy to care. They’re his children and they’ll obey his smooches.

“She does have your curls…” Finan grins at Gunnar then down at Cinaed.

“Perhaps,” Cinaed shrugs with a shy smile.

“Revna, she’s gorgeous.” The younger prince says quietly then, and he knows that Revna appreciates the sentiment by the way she looks at him. Then Gunnar gets to hold the pup, and Cinaed absolutely melts.

“She’s so small,” Ronan fawns, nuzzling into Björn. “And perfect.”

“She’s the perfect addition. And you’ll protect her, yes?” Finan asks the boys.

“Are you serious? With my fuckin’ life… Yes!!” Ronan beams.

“Yes.” Cinaed says with a soft smile.

“Good boys. Gunnar don’t you dare drop her.”

“Oh my god.” Ronan rolls his eyes.

“I’m kiddin’! Jesus.” Finan chuckles.

“Revna, what color are her eyes?” Cinaed asks curiously.

@revnashieldmaiden @gunnartjorvason

As her father sits down next to her, Revna’s smile gets even bigger. She didn’t get to share this moment with him when Tora was born, so it makes it extra special being able to share in it now with Runa.

“Do you want to hold her?” Revna asks her father, her stomach fluttering when he looks up in surprise. “You can if you’d like.”

Gunnar looks at his daughter in awe. Gods, it’s been so long since he has held a babe this little. Not since Revna was born.

“Uh..yeah. I’d love to.” The warrior says nervously as he quickly wipes his hands on his trousers before holding them out for Revna to carefully place little Runa in them. “Gods, she’s so tiny…”

He cradles the pup close to his chest, and he can’t help smelling her hair. Something settles deep inside him, and he just knows she’s like him. A protectiveness flares out in his chest as his wolf howls that she is a part of his pack. His thumb softly caresses little Runa’s cheek and she opens her mouth like she is looking for something to suck. A little chuckle rumbles from Gunnar’s chest.

“Gods…I just can’t believe it…” Gunnar shakes his head as memories of holding Revna come to mind. It’s almost like deja vu.

Revna sits back and chuckles at Finan and the boys. Seeing her husband so happy fills her heart with joy. Moments like this, with their family, makes all the pain of labor worth it.

“Hmm…let me check.” Revna finds herself curious about Runa’s eye color as well. She softly coos at Runa, trying to get her to open her eyes and look at her. Finally her little girl’s eyes open and she looks straight at Revna. The shieldmaiden is instantly surprised as she looks up at her father. Runa’s eyes are hypnotic.

“They are dark like your father’s, with amber flecks. And one of them has a prominent blue spot that looks so mesmerizing. Almost like a small lake surrounded by forrest.” Revna says in awe.

Gods, what secrets do those eyes contain…

@cinaedofulaid @thedarkprinceofulaid

Cinaed can sense almost immediately that Runa is like Gunnar. He didn’t have the ability before, to know what Gunnar was, but perhaps it’s their connection. The bite on his neck.

“Beautiful,” Cinaed answers as he steps a little closer. Yes, he can sense it clear as day. He looks at the Northman and wonders if he can feel it too.

“Doing alright?” Finan asks Revna, putting a caressing hand on her shoulder. “I’m goin’ to step down to the kitchens and bring ya back some food.” He says, before Ronan stops him.

“No, no we can get it… Stay here Da. We’ll be back swiftly.”

“Thank you,” Finan beams as his son and his Norse husband leave with intention in aiding them. He looks back at Revna with a soft smile, before sitting and looking down at his pup’s eyes.

“They’re familiar. But yes… the spot of blue is like a river of ice.”

@revnashieldmaiden

“Yes, my love…” Revna beams up at Finan. “…just a little sore.”

Revna still can’t believe little Runa is here and that the Gods blessed them with another little girl. She smiles as Gunnar rocks the little one in his arms, humming a melody she recalls from her childhood. She is so captivated by her daughter’s eyes as Runa tries to look around even though she can’t see too clearly yet.

“A river of ice…” Revna whispers as her fingers trace along Runa’s cheek before looking into Finan’s eyes as he studies them too.

“I have a feeling she is going to be special in more ways than we know.” The shieldmaiden softly murmurs, curious as to what abilities might manifest, beside of course the werewolf.

Taking Finan’s hand in hers, Revna brings it to her lips for a kiss. “I’m so happy, words can’t even begin to express it. She’s here, and she’s healthy….it’s all I could ever hope for.”

Gunnar grins at his daughter’s words feeling the same in his heart. As Runa begins to wiggle in his arms, Gunnar motions to Finan to take over. “I think she wants her föður now…” the warrior smiles as he passes her to Finan.

Leaning over, Gunnar places a kiss on Revna’s head. “You did good, little raven. Try to get some rest….at least as much as you can, considering.” He teases.

“We’ll check in on you later…” Gunnar shares a look with Cinaed before motioning that they can go if he’d like to. He knows how much being surrounded by lots of people makes him feel a little uncomfortable.

“Love you, father…” Revna says in parting before turning her attention back to her husband and pup.

@thedarkprinceofulaid

“I’m so happy I’m shakin’,” the Irishman beams at his wife, his dark eyes twinkling.

“Spirited woman, you keep amazing me. You are my life force. My everything.” He purrs softly.

“Thanks for comin’,” Finan says to Gunnar with a smile, gratefully taking his pup. He speaks softly in his Irish brogue so as not to startle her, but it’s still deep and rumbly.

“Please tell Ragnar to bring Tora up so she can meet her sister. We’ll see you both soon.”

“Goodbye, Da. Congratulations… to both of you.” Cinaed says with a tender smile, before letting the Northman lead him out by his hand. As soon as they’re out of earshot, Finan looks at Revna with wide eyes.

“Did you hear what I just heard?” Da?

“God, this is one of the best days of my life.” Finan shakes his head, looking to Uhtred then, a quiet observing presence standing nearby. His silent, unwavering strength.

“Today is the day, that I am more blessed than I’ve ever been.”

@revnashieldmaiden