#harald sigurdsson x y/n

[bumblesimagines]

Under The Moonlight

Request: Yes or No

Don't kill me pls I love y'allllllllll if it helps i have three parts already writtennnnn! look at the pretty man

CW/TW: Violence, implied homophobia, Christianity, bashing Christianity (idk if that should be a warning), Vikings being Vikings, men being men

Apologies to any ppl from Greenland or people with a lot of knowledge on Norse culture and their gods, I will get some things wrong.

~~~

The sail to Kattegat had proven to be a difficult feat, though most trips across open ocean typically were. The ocean had shown mercy at first; when the waves would only brush against the side of the boat gently, beckoning curious eyes to gaze into its depths.

But upon sailing closer to Kattegat, a storm began brewing above. The sky turned a dark shade of gray as the waves began to grow, slamming against the boat harder and harder, threatening to capsize it with each powerful hit. The other boats traveling alongside them began to disappear until the drenched man could no longer see more than a foot ahead of him through the pouring rain. With the roaring waves and claps of thunder hounding his senses, (Y/N) could hardly hear the instructions his siblings shouted in an attempt to keep the boat from sinking into the darkness below. But in the end, Leif's experience allowed everyone to escape the storm without losing a single person.

Rising from the wooden seat, (Y/N) stared at the harbor settled between the mountains, a horn blaring through the air to signal their arrival. The town appeared large and heavily occupied. Far more occupied than he had expected. Kattegat was a seemingly well-known town but the man hadn't expected to see so many Vikings gathered in just one harbor. His half-sister seemed to share similar thoughts. She stared at the town, gaze lingering for a moment before she looked back toward her brothers with uncertainty but after meeting (Y/N)'s eyes, her lips pulled into a warm smile and her shoulders relaxed.

Freydis Eriksdotter. Only younger than him by a few weeks. With her long blonde hair and tender blue eyes, Freydis had been a shining light in his darkest moments. While she physically resembled her mother, her stubborn and fierce personality could be attributed to their stubborn and infamous father, Erik Thorvaldsson. She had proven to be the perfect combination of her parents; her idle hands that could weave thread and mend injuries also knew how to handle a sword. And with a father like theirs, it was imperative they knew how to defend themselves, from animals and people alike. 

"Stay close and out of trouble," A voice rumbled from behind him as the boat neared the docks.

Then there was his older half-brother, Leif Eriksson. With his broad structure, long brown hair, and bright blue eyes, Leif resembled their father in more ways than one. And yet, he tried to be everything their father wasn't; gentle, forgiving, and merciful. He and Freydis easily adapted to (Y/N)'s presence after his mother brought him to their home. They gleefully took him in, calling him their brother within days and growing to love him within weeks. Leif proved to be the older brother anyone could ever wish for.

"I'm not the one you should be telling that to." (Y/N) muttered, folding his arms over his chest and feeling the boat slow to a stop. The Vikings on the docks were quick to help secure the boat and one took a moment to examine the condition of it and its passengers. 

"How in Odin's name did you avoid the storm?" He questioned curiously as he rested his hands on his hips

Brushing off his question, Leif addressed the man. "Did any ships from the west make it in last night?" 

"No, just two ships before the storm." He answered and nodded toward the shore, drawing (Y/N)'s attention to it. Littered across the sand were bodies, flags, and pieces of wood. Few searched through the wreckages for valuables or familiar faces while others treaded into the waters to pull the corpses onto land. A saddening sight for anyone. Lives lost to the rage of the ocean. Leif studied the shore and exhaled softly, shaking his head lightly before turning to his crew. 

"Toke, Ulf, you stay here with the boats and resupply," Leif instructed the two men and then turned his sights onto siblings. "Freydis, (Y/N), check with the captains at the harbor. The rest of you will come with me to search the town." 

Freydis frowned but before she could protest, (Y/N) gently grasped her arm. "The time will come." He assured her gently. Freydis pursed her lips and nodded, gazing after their brother as he and the others disappeared into the crowded town. She heaved a sigh and turned back to look at their messy boat.

"You know, I do not need you watching over me," Freydis muttered and retrieved some more rope from the floor, squinting up at their sail to check for anything else that had possibly gotten loose in the strong winds.

"It's my job as your big brother." (Y/N) reminded teasingly, a grin appearing on his face when she scoffed softly and rolled her eyes. Freydis expertly tied the rope in her hands around the mast, glancing at the men as (Y/N) took the things Toke and Ulf had quickly retrieved. (Y/N) looked over their supplies, ensuring they had everything they needed. 

"Where are you from?" Someone called out, pulling the Greenlanders' attention away from their tasks and onto the man watching them from the dock.

He was tall with broad shoulders and muscular arms. His brunette hair had been tied back into a bun, allowing them to gaze at his bearded face and dark eyes. He regarded the crew with mere curiosity and a boyish smile that screamed trouble, exuding an aura of friendliness. But even with his kind eyes and relaxed posture, (Y/N) couldn't find it in himself to trust him. They were newcomers on strange land. Easy targets for vultures. 

Slipping his fingers around his sheathed dagger, (Y/N) allowed his eyes to sweep over the man once more, taking note of the axe holstered to his hip. When he turned his attention back onto the stranger's face he found the man already watching him. The brunette tilted his head to the side expectantly, presumably awaiting an answer from him but he received silence in return as (Y/N) turned his back to him and focused on taking count of their food supply, or rather lack of.

Chuckling softly under her breath, Freydis peered over her shoulder and answered, "Greenland."

"What kind of journey was it?" The man inquired, gaze lingering on the quiet man.

"Long. Five weeks. No stops." Freydis answered once more and watched the man closely as he finally tore his eyes away from her brother and stepped closer to asses the boat. Upon finishing with the mast, she finally faced him.

"Five weeks across open ocean in this?" He peered down at Freydis with twinkling eyes and a wolfish grin. "I'm impressed."

"Then you are easily impressed." 

"Not true. My standards are quite high." The man objected playfully, watching his sister with an all too familiar look. (Y/N) had been no stranger to that dance, especially when it came to Freydis and the other women of the crew. And seeing as his sister appeared rather taken with the handsome stranger, (Y/N) doubted she'd only flirt with him. 

"So are mine." Freydis pulled herself up onto one of the seats, wrapping her hand around one of the ropes attached to the mast to maintain her balance. She smirked at him, blatantly looking him over to feed into their little flirtatious game. "Are you from Kattegat?"

"No, from Ringerike. I'm Harald Sigurdsson." Harald spoke his name proudly, almost as if he were important. It made (Y/N)'s eyes roll. "Who are you?"

"My name is Freydis." The blonde answered before motioning toward (Y/N) with a nod. "And this is my brother."

"Ah." Harald leaned back, hand resting on the hilt of his axe as he looked back at (Y/N). "Then, I believe after such a long voyage, I would think a hot bath would sound good to your sister." Bold words slipped from his mouth and (Y/N) found himself raising his brows at him, hearing Ulf and Toke snickering quietly from their spots. Freydis looked at her brother with widened eyes but the corners of her lips twitched upward in amusement. Meeting her gaze, (Y/N) knew Leif would be far from pleased if he allowed her to leave the boat with a stranger, but he'd be unable to blame (Y/N) for it. Freydis had a habit of doing whatever she wanted, with and without permission. So, with the knowledge Freydis could easily defend herself if it came to it, (Y/N) hesitantly nodded.

"Well then," Freydis turned back to Harald and stepped onto the dock, turning her chin up at him and quirking a pale brow. "Where could I get one of these hot baths?"

"Come." Harald chuckled, shooting the man one last glance before he placed his hand on Freydis's lower back and led her down the dock until they disappeared from view.

"With that attitude, he's asking for someone to dig an axe in his back," Ulf said as he stood up, casting a glance over the boat.

Shaking his head, (Y/N) looked at him and offered a smile. "We've come for other reasons." He reminded, watching Toke finish securing everything.

With the boat taken care of, the two men followed (Y/N) down the dock and looked around as he led them into town. Sellers shoved varying items in his direction, shouting off prices and rambling about their products. Amongst the perfumes, clothes, and weapons being sold, there were slaves. Shackled and shivering. (Y/N) felt his throat tighten at the sight of them.

"There's Liv!" Ulf pointed out and (Y/N) tore his gaze away from the slaves, turning his back to them as his friends slipped from the crowd one by one. 

"No luck." Yrsa sighed. Before (Y/N) could speak, another horn sounded off, signaling the arrival of more ships and it only took a moment for Lief to slip out of the crowd and join the group, looking over everyone with newfound determination.

"The cross belongs to an English Viking." He revealed, eyes searching for Freydis's familiar face and frowning when he didn't spot her. Turning to his brother questioningly, his frown only deepened when (Y/N) avoided his eyes and sheepishly rubbed the side of his neck.

"She left with someone. A so-called Harald Sigurdsson."

Sighing heavily, Leif nodded. "I'll find her. We'll meet up at the docks."

When Leif disappeared back into the crowd, (Y/N) faced the crew and motioned for them to start heading back. On the short walk to the docks, it began to rain lightly but the wind picked up considerably. They just couldn't seem to stay dry for long. It didn't take long for Leif and Freydis to join the crew, eyes trained on the ships sailing into the harbor. Upon getting closer, (Y/N) spotted two of the men on one of the ships, crosses dangling from their necks. Considering the loud cheering from the docks, the two were loved, perhaps even worshipped. 

"It's him," Freydis confirmed, looking back at her brothers when the men stepped off the ships. She looked back at the sound of a familiar voice and her eyes narrowed upon seeing Harald greeting them, appearing to know the men on a personal level. 

"Isn't that-"

"Yes." Freydis breathed, jaw clenching. Grasping the handle of her knife, Freydis took a step forward, ready to get her revenge on the man who had fled from justice. But she didn't get far before (Y/N) took her arm and pulled her back. Too many eyes, too many Christians. They'd see her coming from a mile away if she brazenly rushed at them and he doubted they'd only pray for her if she were caught.

"Not here," Leif told her, keeping an eye on the men as they strode deeper into town. Grunting softly, the blonde sheathed her knife and stepped back, eyes bright with rage. "Toke, Yrsa. Go get our things."

The men stopped briefly to eat, giving Toke and Yrsa enough time to gather everyones' belongings and bring them back, handing them off just as the men got on horses and began leaving town. The crew followed them out of town, keeping a safe distance away and being mindful of the other Vikings with the men. Leif led everyone into the dense forest, stepping over fallen logs and foliage as they climbed up the side of the mountain. A tiresome trek but a necessary one. Freydis needed to bring justice down on the man who had hurt her and her brothers had vowed on helping her. So, (Y/N) ignored the way his muscles ached for rest and marched on.

The winds lashed furiously on the mountain but it was the least of (Y/N)'s worries as he took in the sight below. A whole camp filled with more Vikings than he could count. Tents perched in just about every corner, horses roaming around, carts filled with supplies. It looked like an army preparing for something, but what exactly? (Y/N) swallowed and looked at Leif, taking in the concentrated look on his face.

"We'll set up camp in the forest." Leif decided, turning to his equally perplexed and surprised friends. "We'll keep an eye on him until the time is right." Leif nodded to his sister and Freydis returned it, eyeing the camp one last time before she turned and began heading back down the mountain, the others following close behind and exchanging glances. (Y/N) strayed for a moment, looking over all the Vikings present. A need for so many warriors could only mean something big, something important.  Part of him didn't want to find out what it was.

Turning his attention away from the camp, he caught up with the others and headed down the mountain where they could rest until a solid plan was created. Yrsa and Ulf worked together to prop their furs on long sticks, Liv and Leif collected some sticks to create a small fire and Njal left to watch the camp. (Y/N) explored the forest, gazing up at the tall trees towering over them. While he was no stranger to a lush forest, he'd been used to seeing vast snow-covered plains for most of his life. He missed the openness of his home... He missed his parents and brothers. Sighing softly, he turned his sights onto the bright green brush and grass, searching for fallen branches and sticks to help feed the fire Liv and Leif had started. He'd have to take in the sights of nature another time. They had more important matters at hand. 

Returning to camp with a handful of sticks and crouching down by the fire, he set the pile down beside Liv and brushed his hands free of dirt. Liv gave him a thankful smile, picking up a few and tossing them into the fire, the crackle growing louder. (Y/N) lifted his head to look at the others, noting Skarde seemed awfully quiet and upset. Yrsa had settled down on a blanket made of furs whilst Ulf and Toke conversed and his sister sat by herself, looking out in the direction of the camp. She perked up at the sight of Njal, watching him return with a conflicted expression.

"He must be important. He hasn't come out of the main tent." Njal informed them, gaze cast onto the ground as glances were exchanged.

Running a hand over his face, Skarde shook his head and spoke shakily, fingers toying with the thread wrapped around his hand. "This changes things."

"This changes nothing," Freydis spoke, snapping her head toward him and narrowing her eyes when he scoffed.

"Really? What is your plan then? Go down there and simply take your revenge?" He questioned, raising a brow at her as she stood and faced him.

"If I have to, yes." Noticing the growing animosity, Leif stood up from his spot beside Liv, glancing between his sister and friend as they went back and forth, both Greenlanders growing more annoyed with each passing second.

Skarde slowly nodded in disbelief, rolling up the thread in his hands and tossing it to his feet. "I won't be a part of such a plan." He spat, pushing himself off the tree he'd been sitting against. 

"Then you break your oath to my father?" Leif furrowed his brows as he walked forward, placing himself between the two and staring up at him. (Y/N) rose up from his hunches and stepped around the brunette to stand beside his brother, briefly pulling Skarde's attention off his siblings and onto him. 

Clenching his jaw, Skarde spoke, "I didn't promise your father to be a part of foolishness."

"What do we know of this place?" Njal's deep voice interjected, his tone full of uncertainty. "Trees, cities, and giant armies? These Norse are not our people."

"They are Viking... Just like you." Freydis raised her brows, pointedly looking between Njal and Skarde as she spoke.

"No." Skarde asserted with a light shake of his head. "We are Greenlanders. As are you." He said, inhaling deeply before he continued. "Until this morning, no one among us had ever seen more than 40 people together in one place. Now, I look at more men than in Iceland and Greenland together. We must be able to admit that what we came here for is now hopeless." 

Silence fell over the crew and when nobody countered his argument, Freydis scoffed in disbelief and turned away from them, stalking off in the direction of the camp. (Y/N) didn't hesitate on following his sister through the foliage until they came across the tree line. Freydis stared out at the camp with crossed arms and a frown on her face. The crunching of leaves signaled Leif's presence, having followed his younger siblings as well.

"You shouldn't have stopped me at the harbor," Freydis muttered bitterly. "It would be done."

"And you would be dead," Leif stated bluntly, gazing out at the camp. 

"Then I'd be in Valhalla with the other Einherjar, feasting with Odin and the Gods. And Father would be proud."

"We are not here for Father, Freydis." (Y/N) spoke up, hand reaching out to gently touch the back of her arm. She looked down at his hand, her tense figure slowly relaxing at her brother's touch. "We came here for you. Besides, Father didn't think of-"

"What are you trying to tell me?" She asked defensively, tilting her head up to look into his eyes. "Do you believe it's hopeless? Because I will not stop until I get my revenge." 

"No, Freydis. We're asking you to trust us." Leif said, softening his gaze as he looked at his sister. Freydis swallowed and looked back at him, lips pressing together. She released a shaky sigh and nodded, loose curls bouncing against her speckled skin.

"I trust you."

"Good. Because I have a plan."

"Are you sure this is a good idea?" (Y/N) questioned, eyeing the Vikings walking around with their weapons close to their sides and crosses hanging proudly from their necks. When night had fallen, Leif had pulled him away from the rest to take him to the camp. Leif wished to infiltrate the camp and figure out what exactly so many of their people had been gathered.

"If you'd like, you can return to camp," Leif glanced back at him, shoulder roughly bumping against another Viking walking by. (Y/N) stepped closer to his brother, listening to the soft prayers oozing from tents and groups of Vikings. Unease bubbled in his stomach. Too many Christians for his liking. Leif lifted his hand to his face, brushing back some hair before an older man suddenly reached out, snatching his wrist and staring at the tattoo Leif had on his wrist.

"What you doing over here?" He hissed quietly, voice thick with an English accent. He spared a look around before releasing Leif's wrist and glancing at (Y/N). "Come with me before one of these damn Christians catches sight of the both of ya." He sucked his teeth, shoving the brothers forward and away from the other Vikings. (Y/N) stumbled out onto an open area and looked back at the man, watching him warily glance back.

"If that Jesus bunch caught you two prowling around over there, you'd be lucky to get back." He shook his head, leading them toward a cart and pulling their hands up. He began stacking folded blankets and coats made of fur on their hands until the sound of drums began echoing through the air and everyone began heading in the direction of the sound.

"Stay close," Leif whispered to his brother, following the older man through the crowd. Men on horses led the way with their torches held in the air, only stopping once the crowd stood in front of those beating the drums. (Y/N) handed the blankets off to the older man, nodding to him and keeping close to Leif as they slipped through the crowd until they reached the front. A few Vikings stood on top of a hill overlooking the crowd. Harald Sigurdsson among them. He appeared to be quite important.

"Welcome, friends!" The man standing beside Harald began, voice echoing through the valley. Murmurs erupted through the crowd and a name seemed to be passed around: King Canute of Denmark.

"Over a hundred years ago, a great Viking army set off for England to avenge the death of Ragnor Lothrok. It achieved its goal. And after many great victories, our people were invited to settle into communities there. With time, we sent our loved ones to live and work there. The Danelaw became their home." King Canute spoke, allowing a brief moment of silence to pass as the information settled in. 

"A year ago, all that changed. And a slaughter began. A massacre. Unknown in the long history of our people. An attack. Not warrior to warrior, but waged on innocent women and children." The more he spoke, the rowdier the crowd got, murmurs growing louder. "Waged for only one reason; to cleanse England of our people. You have been summoned here for a purpose, to avenge the death of our people and to show the English that they cannot murder Vikings and expect us to do nothing!" The crowd erupted in cheers, swords being slammed against shields in support. (Y/N) shifted uncomfortably as shoulders bumped against his, adrenaline beginning to pump in the veins of those around him.

"Our ancestors would not. Ivar the Boneless and Bjorn Ironside would not. I will not. Will you?" The crowd roared their response. It was not in a Viking's blood to simply ignore an attack against themselves, against loved ones. But many of the Vikings present weren't there to avenge a loved one. A blind and unexpected attack was an easy way to bruise someone's ego. "You are here for your families! You are here for your honor! You are here because you are Vikings!" King Canute finished, hearing the overwhelming shouts and roars of agreement, metal swords slamming against shields. Leif and (Y/N) exchanged a look, arms brushing against each other and providing the brothers with some sense of comfort in a sea of furious men and women.

"We will fight the English." One man staggered forward, head turning to sneer at the others. "But not with Christians!" He bellowed, motioning toward them with his axe as others cheered in agreement. Despite the years, (Y/N) could feel his scar ache as he looked toward the gathered Christians, a certain disdain swirling in his chest. "Christians killed my family. They are my true enemy."

"And you are mine, Pagan." One of the Christian men responded, stepping forward from the rowdy crowd. "These men are nothing but idolaters. Worshippers of Satan!" 

With a war cry, the first man ran at the other, swinging his axe at him but his blow was blocked by the second man's shield. The two continued swinging at each other, urged on by both crowds alike. Swiftly going down the hill, Harald got in between them, blocking with his shield and swinging at the men in an attempt to push them away from each other. Releasing a cry when a sword cut him, Harald sneered at the men and spread out his arms to prevent them from attacking each other.

"Enough!" Harald snarled at them, heavy pants leaving him. He turned toward the first man, dropping his arms to his sides as he addressed him. "Jarl Gorm, you say you'll never fight with Christians but what am I? Did I not spend every summer of my youth with your family? Did you not love me like a son?" He questioned, whipping his head to look at the second man. "Jarl Nori, a pious Christian. I saw your sister the night of the massacre. What would she say about your refusal to fight with your brothers here? Would she not call you a coward?" Harald looked between the two before taking a step back and facing the crowd.

"That your God is Odin or Christ means nothing to me! Only your honor does! Only your courage does!" He shouted into the night. Heaving softly, he touched a hand to his sliced arm and lifted his blood-soaked fingers into the air. "This blood is not my blood. It is our blood, it is Viking blood! And it will always be!" His words garnered cries and shouts of agreement, flags swinging back and forth. The two men nodded to Harald and retreated to their previous spots in the crowd, content with keeping the peace for the time being.

"It is going to be a long night," Leif whispered as the cheers continued. (Y/N) could only sigh in return.

                    ➸        ➸       ➸       ➸       ➸       ➸

"Did you sleep at all?"

"You know very well I can't sleep around strangers." (Y/N) answered with a yawn, trying to push away the exhaustion clinging to his body. Leif frowned, using his fingers to comb his hair back into a bun but before he could lecture his brother, (Y/N) turned his back to him and looked out at the bustling Vikings.

"What now?"

"We find him and we keep an eye on him," Leif answered and walked forward, the sound of singing filling the camp as Vikings went about their day. Men and women collected supplies, heaving them onto carts and helping one another. (Y/N) searched for the man, eyes flickering from face to face, never allowing his gaze to linger to avoid attracting attention to them. Feeling fingers lightly tap his arm, he followed Leifs' gaze and spotted the man walking through the ground. However, before the two could follow, Leif's shoulder was roughly grabbed and his body turned to face a stranger.

"It's them, all right." The man nodded to his friends and sneered at the brothers. "Your father is Erik Thorvaldson, yes? Erik the Red?"

"And what is that to you?" Leif asked, eyeing the men around them. (Y/N) brought his hand to his dagger's handle, looking over his shoulder at the men behind them, their shields up to block them from leaving. 

"Our name is Becken. Your father killed our brother Sven." The man revealed, motioning between himself and the other Viking standing beside him.

"Our father's history has nothing to do with us." Leif retorted, reaching out to grab (Y/N)'s arm and gently push him forward, hoping to avoid a fight but one of the men cut in front of them, blocking them from getting too far and cockily grinning at them.

"Your father is a killer. Run away to escape justice. It has everything to do with you." The first man asserted bitterly. (Y/N)'s grip on the dagger tightened and he looked back at Leif, searching his face for permission to swing at the man in front of him. Leif grimaced and turned toward the man who had begun it, raising his brows.

"You're making a mistake." He warned.

Scoffing, the man in front of (Y/N) shook his head. "No, Eriksson. The mistake was yours." He declared, charging forward but before he could bring the sword down on the younger brother, (Y/N) grabbed his attacker's forearm and turned his body, slipping his dagger out while simultaneously elbowing the man directly in the nose. The man cried out in pain and stumbled backward, hand raising to touch his now bleeding nose. The pain, however, only fueled his rage and he charged again with an enraged cry. (Y/N) quickly dodged the following swing and slammed his foot into the back of his knee, sending the man toppling downward. He rolled over onto his back and attempted to get up but (Y/N) kicked his face, causing more blood to spill from his nose as his head slammed back into the grass. Retrieving the man's discarded axe from the ground, (Y/N) threw it at one of the men charging at his brother, successfully hitting him and causing the man to fall. 

"Brother!" Turning, (Y/N) caught the shield Leif tossed at him and blocked a swing from a sword, using the shield to shove the man onto the ground. He spun around and leaned back, narrowly getting cut by an axe swinging in his direction. Lifting his leg, (Y/N) kicked the man in the stomach and made him stumble backward, using his momentary loss of balance to charge forward and dig the dagger into his arm. Pulling it out and panting softly, (Y/N) stepped back and briefly pressed his back against Leif's.

The man that had attacked him first blindly charged, face soaked in red. (Y/N) raised the shield to block his punch and lowered it just as quickly, swinging the dagger at his face and cutting his cheek. Moving his hands down to the bottom of the shield, he swung it sideways and hit the side of the man's face, knocking him down again. When another one charged, he did similarly, aiming at his wrist and knocking the sword from their grasp. Releasing the shield and charging, (Y/N) tackled the man onto the grass and pinned his arms down with his knees, lifting his dagger above his head and bringing it down.

"Enough!" Leif called, and (Y/N) froze, blade frighteningly close to his attacker's eye. Panting heavily, (Y/N) peered over his shoulder and spotted his brother holding a sword to the first man's throat.

"Just like your father." The man cursed, spitting out some blood and saliva.

"You're wrong." Leif lifted the sword, using the side of it to knock him out. "If I were like my father, you'd all be dead." He breathed and turned toward (Y/N), tossing the sword aside and motioning for him to stand. (Y/N) looked down at the man writhing beneath him and huffed softly, standing up and trailing after Leif. 

"Taking another's life would've complicated things, (Y/N)," Leif scolded, looking back at him with a disappointed frown.

"They attacked first." (Y/N) argued with a huff. "They would've had it coming."

Sighing, Leif shook his head and looked forward. "You sound like Father." He muttered, leading his brother to a stream near the camp and crouching down by the water. (Y/N) joined him, letting the cool water wash his hands before he dipped his dagger in and cleaned it. Once satisfied, (Y/N) rose and wiped the blade against his pant leg, sheathing it and drying his hands on his pants. He caught sight of figures in his peripheral and gently kicked his brother's leg to catch his attention.

"Eriksson from Greenland. Not the sons of Viking warrior, Erik Thorvaldson, banished from Norway and Iceland for murder?" Harald tilted his head, regarding them with an amused smile. Leif stood up, shaking his hands off, and sharing a cautious glance with his brother.

"The same." He confirmed, eyes flickering to the men beside Harald. Most wore crosses.

"I suppose when you have a father like Erik the Red, you learn to fight like that." Harald chuckled, not catching the distaste that passed over Leif's features at his words.

"My name is Leif." He walked closer, tilting his head up to look at Harald.

"I'm Harald Sigurdsson. We met yesterday, though I didn't quite catch your brother's name." Harald said, tilting his head to look at (Y/N). His cocky and playful smirk made whatever respect (Y/N) had gained for him the night before wash away in an instant. His lip pulled back and he couldn't help but roll his eyes, a soft scoff escaping him. Harald merely chuckled at his distaste, eyes slowly raking over the Greenlander.

"I believe that's none of your business." (Y/N) responded, eyes trailing down from his face to the cross he wore. Harald's hand raised to toy with it, fingers wrapping around it and blocking it from view. (Y/N) lifted his gaze and met Harald's, holding eye contact for a moment before he looked away. Leif's brows furrowed slightly, glancing between his brother and Harald.

"His name is (Y/N)," Leif piped up after a moment of silence, climbing up the short hill to be at eye level with Harald. "We heard you last night. You're a good speaker. You moved many." 

"Did I move you?" Harald asked, eyes remaining on the younger brother. His lips quirked into a small grin when (Y/N) refused to meet his gaze, only begrudgingly getting closer when his brother motioned for him. Crossing his arms over his chest, (Y/N) looked back at the men and briefly looked into Harald's dark eyes. When neither brother responded, Harald finally tore his eyes away and looked at the rather perplexed Leif, hand dropping from his cross. "Freydis said you captained your boat all the way from Greenland. Could use good ship captains who can fight. I can promise great glory if you join us in England."

"Glory?" Leif repeated, curiously glancing back at (Y/N). "I thought you were going to England for revenge?"

"We are. But true Vikings always reach for glory. It's what defines us."

"Like I said, you're a good speaker. I'll think about it." Leif answered grimly, although his tone made his answer rather clear and obvious. Harald's jaw clenched but he nodded, watching the brothers brush past him. (Y/N) paused, reaching out to touch Harald's cross, studying the metal and designs carved into it. Harald reached up to pull his cross out of (Y/N)'s grip, pausing when their fingers brushed against each other. His eyes lowered to look down at their hands.

"I wish you luck with our sister. You'll need it." (Y/N) murmured, releasing the cross and joining Leif in heading back to camp. 

The rest of the day had gone by uneventfully as the army began moving toward Kattegat where Jarl Haakon allowed them to set up camp outside the walls of her city. She graciously opened the main hall for them, hosting a feast for the warriors ready to fight. (Y/N) and Leif wandered around the hall, keeping to the sides and mostly out of view as they waited for Freydis to slip inside and enact her revenge. A risky plan but they were aware of the dangers. Death is not the end, his mother would say to him whenever he grew afraid.

"There's Skarde." (Y/N) whispered upon spotting the man slipping into the hall. Just in time for another speech from King Canute.

"Friends!" He called from the table settled at the end of the hall, rising to his feet as the Vikings fell silent and turned toward the king. Leif walked forward, heading toward the other side of the hall as quietly as possible. (Y/N) remained on the other side, glancing at Leif as he kept to the wall but made sure to remain within their view, or rather Harald's view. It proved easier than expected seeing as Harald's eyes found him almost instantaneously.

"This is a historic occasion. Our thanks to Jarl Haakon for opening her city to our righteous cause. It is an honor to be here in Kattegat, in the great hall of Ragnar Lothbrok and his sons. To eat from the same table as Lagertha and all the heroes who came before. We are humbled and inspired by their legacy. But now is our time to make history. To show the cowards in England, that Vikings, despite our differences, are still one people. One heart. One soul." He concluded his speech and (Y/N) slipped out toward the middle of the room with Leif joining him midway as the Vikings dispersed. Finally meeting Harald's eyes, (Y/N) tilted his head at him and lifted a hand to his dagger, watching Harald's eyes narrow as they flickered to his hand. His eyes left the Greenlander for a moment.

"That's close enough, Greenlanders." One of the Christians who never seemed far from Harald spoke, stepping toward them and gripping Leif by the collar. Harald rose from his spot at the table and approached them as more men surrounded them. With his attention on the brothers, he didn't spot the cloaked figure descending upon the table with a knife in hand.

"Whatever you are planning, do not act on it. I'll kill you if I must." 

"We're not the ones you should be worried about." And then, a frightened scream broke the tension.

#x reader #x you #x y/n #x male reader #vikings #vikings valhalla #vikings valhalla x male reader #vikings valhalla x you #vikings valhalla x y/n #vikings valhalla x reader #harald sigurdsson #harald sigurdsson x reader #harald sigurdsson x male reader #harald sigurdsson x you #harald sigurdsson x y/n #leif eriksson #freydis eriksdotter

[phenomenal1500]

~In The Gods' Favor~

Masterlist

A/N: This is a combined request asked by three anons on Tumblr. I felt like these requests could fit together perfectly and I hope you all like it!

Summary: Reader is stuck in an arranged marriage with Harald and sees his scars by the Pechenegs for the first time.

Timeline: Season 2, after the Pechenegs.

Pairing: Harald Sigurdsson x Fem!Reader Warning: Smut, breeding kink, arranged marriage.

Sitting in the gorgeously decorated great hall in Kattegat, Y/N was watching the Norsemen feasting and celebrating because of her marriage with the new king of Norway. However, everything didn't sit right with her.

How could other people be happy at such a time but her?

She knew who she married. King Harald had made sure to meet and spend time with her before their marriage so she wouldn't feel overwhelmed marrying a stranger, but happiness? That she couldn't express at this hour.

Perhaps it was because she was closed off to new opportunities or perhaps because she had built a wall so she didn't have to let him in, but she simply couldn't be excited even though she had to admit the norseman was besides attractive also very lovely and caring.

"You're doing alright, sæta?" King Harald slowly dropped himself beside her on the small bench that she had been sitting on all evening now.

"I think I'm doing fairly well." She nodded and looked back at the exciting and hopeful crowd again.

"We're giving them hope." He whispered, laying his large hand on her lower back. "We must think about that."

"I've never been much of a leader." She admitted, for the first time not backing away or pushing his hand away either. Sooner or later things had to get more heated between the two so a simple loving touch didn't bother her so much anymore. "These people.. they aren't my people."

"After today they are, love." He slowly rubbed her back and tried to make her look at him. "They're as much my people as they are yours."

"Out of everyone, why me?" She finally pulled her eyes off the crowd and back to her husband.

"You seemed sweet and very quick-witted." He smiled. "And from the moment they introduced you, I knew you would stand by me proudly."

"I'm not standing anywhere yet." She may have already been royal before they married, but since she was the youngest of her sisters, she had never been taught how to be a proper queen. She didn't trust herself to lead a country yet.

"You will soon." He gently lifted her hand to his lips and gave the back of it a soft kiss. "Trust me when I say you were born for this."

"I trust you." She slowly nodded and had a slight blush on her cheeks.

"That's all that matters." He gently lifted her chin with his index finger before he closed the gap between them, catching her lips with his as he pulled her in for a slow passionate kiss.

"King Harald." She panted softly after she pulled away, cheeks even redder.

"Not the right moment?" He stroked her hair, letting her decide for herself if she wanted to continue the kiss. He wasn't going to force her into anything. That wasn't like him. If the kiss wasn't what she wanted, Harald would apologize right away.

"No, it's not that." She cleared her throat nervously, but instantly relaxed in his touch. "However, perhaps we should go somewhere more private?"

"Is that really what you wish for, Y/N?" He whispered, cupping her face with his hands.

"I think so." She was a bit uncertain, but she preferred some alone time with the man anyway. The crowd only made her feel more pressured to show forced love to him, and if the traditions were true, after the wedding celebrations six people would accompany them to their bridal bed and she would rather experience things alone with him before that.

"Come on then, sæta." He got up and held out his hand which she took without any hesitation.

She wanted to be out of there badly and especially if it meant exploring her feelings with him before anyone would witness it.

She couldn't imagine how forced and hurried that would be like.

The king brought her to their now shared bedroom, helping her inside before he closed and locked the door so no one could get in and harm them. "You're certain about this my queen?" He questioned again, just to reassure himself that she wanted this too and he wasn't forcing her into anything. He had been raised to respect and care for his women, no matter if it was an arranged marriage and they had to by tradition.

For him and a lot of other Norsemen, unlike the men from England, it was important both sides wanted this.

"Yes, I'm sure of my decision, Harald." She smiled a little, feeling soothed by the way he made sure she was okay with such a thing at all times.

"Come over here, gorgeous~." He returned the sweet smile and watched the woman obey him, carefully closing the gap between them herself now.

Right when she took the last step towards him, she could feel his warm lips on hers again. Tongue playfully exploring her mouth, he sneaked his arms around her thighs and picked her up that way, holding her close to him.

She had to admit it made her feel feelings she never thought she was capable of feeling and here she was, experiencing them with a man she actually started to desire.

"My king~?" She blushed and cupped his face, staring deeply into his darkened eyes filled with lust.

"You're allowed to only say my name, Ketta. You are my wife, not an unknown person to me." He spoke against her lips softly and she nodded.

"Harald~?" She licked her lips slowly to taste more of him when he carefully laid her down on her back.

"What is it?" He made sure to caress every inch of her body, starting with kissing her shoulders as he unlaced the laces of her dress located between her breasts. It instantly made her feel flustered, but didn't stop him and he didn't stop either.

Lust was slowly taking over~ they needed each other badly.

"I desire you." She felt her heart speed up a bit when he took off her dress more with every kiss. It even doubled its speed when his hands and lips finally found her breasts, fingers trailing up and down her breasts before rolling her hardened nipples between his fingers and kissing the valley between them. It instantly caused a strange sensation in her body and she suddenly felt the wet heat worsen between her legs.

"I desire you too, ketta." He muttered against her soft skin, hands moving down to her sides and down to her hips as he pushed the fabric further down.

There she was, bare and open to him.

He had to admit it made his cock grow solid in his trousers right away when he saw her gorgeous body, but he was holding himself back and keeping himself calm.

He wasn't a quick-fuck type of guy, he wanted to treat her like the queen she was.

Despite how he felt about how beautiful she was, she herself was slightly anxious. Nobody had ever seen her without clothes, let alone this vulnerable too, and especially after he slowly spread her legs.

"All I'm asking of you is to loosen up and let me take care of her, sæta, that way it'll feel the best."  He ran his fingers over her wet pussy lips to worship it gently and pulled his hand back again. He knew he had to be careful with her and that's why he needed her to relax for him.

"I'll try my best, Harald." She mumbled, nibbling on her lower lip as he suddenly got on his knees in front of her. "What~ what are you doing?"

"It's okay, my love~." He reassured her as his lips touched her inner thigh, giving it sloppy wet kisses as he trailed his way up to the place that needed to be touched the most.... The place that was aching and begging for nobody but his touch.

"Please." She panted softly, letting the small beg roll of her tongue before she could stop herself. She honestly didn't really know what she was begging for, but it made him chuckle and before she knew it he was giving her clit a loving kiss too. Her chest immediately went up and down faster because of it and the pleasure that shocked through her body increased especially when he wrapped his lips around it and gently started to suck.

That brought her to Valhalla right away.

"Mmhmm~." Y/N arched her back, loving the new delightful feelings as he licked her up, giving her wet pussy long and slow licks before going back to sucking. "Harald~."

"I know, ketta." Harald growled, his hands stroking her inner thighs as he dove right back into her ocean. "I know it feels good." He spoke straight into her core, her whole body shivering because of it.

He needed her ready for him.

He needed this to feel good for her.

Lifting her legs and resting them over his shoulders, he licked her insides a little faster. He wanted her pretty pink pussy more than soaked and ready to take all of him and in no time her legs were already shaking.

He knew she was close, but unfortunately for his beautiful wife he wasn't going to make her cum so soon.

Harald pulled back, his beard covered in her juices, but he didn't care. His eyes landed on his wife again, her pretty eyes filled with lust and her cheeks having this cute red tone, she was so precious to him. "You prefer to have all of me?"

"Yes. I would love to have all of you." She smiled after she managed to get out of her stunned embarrassed state. This was all new to her and seeing him this shameless was unusual so of course it was normal she had to get used to the barefaced activities.

She slowly sat up though and actually managed to help her husband take off his armor before her eyes suddenly landed on the horrifying scars on his chest.

"What happened...?" She raised her hand and carefully outlined them with her fingers.

"It happened before I was crowned king of Norway. A man named Vitomir promised to pay me and my friend Leif a lot of treasure if we could deliver something to the emperor in Constantinople." He proudly explained while he unlaced his trousers. "But there were many Pecheneg camps settled along the shores we sailed."

"Pechenegs...?" Her eyes shot up to his deep hazel ones, staring at him with a slightly dropped jaw.

If there was anything she heard about Pechenegs, it was that they were extremely violent, well, they loved giving their enemies a tough time.

It was a wonder Harald was still alive.

"Yes, Pechenegs." He nodded and crawled on top of her in a hot way, his hands resting on either side of her head to keep his body weight off of her. "The cowards pierced my skin and string me up by my chest to see how much it would take for me to beg for mercy, but I never did."

Y/N listened closely to the king, but actually focused more on the ugly scars.

"Do they still hurt..?" She pushed herself up on her elbows to kiss each scar.

"No, neither do my muscles." He kissed her forehead. "So do not worry about me. We're not here together and bare to worry about my injuries."

"I know." She suddenly blushed again when she felt his hard cock pressing against her thigh. She then wrapped her arms around his neck while her legs spread some more on their own to make room for him between them. "I can feel that we aren't here for that."

"You want it~?" He teased playfully, rubbing his tip between her wet folds which got her body squirming with need.

"Yes, please Harald." She begged, her eyes never leaving his as he grabbed her hand and brought it down to touch his perfectly curved cock.

God, he would be able to hit every spot so well.

"Guide him, love." He let her feel around his already rock hard cock, jerking him a little, and he loved the way she was too embarrassed to look down at what she was doing. It was adorable.

"Guide him...? I don't know how." She whispered, glaring down for a second as he gave her a hint, pressing his tip softly against her tight entrance.

It made her bite her lip, nervous at the sight of him so close to her dripping pussy.

"Right there, guide him in ketta." He whispered in her ear, kissing her neck afterwards while she slowly guided him inside of her tight entrance.

Harald could feel her body protest by the unfamiliar stretch, but he could also tell she wanted this so badly by the way her walls were clenching and throbbing around his big cock.

Slowly, he moved his hips forward into hers, feeling her pussy trying to adjust to just his thick tip as she closed her eyes.

"How are you feeling, love?"

"Wonderful, strange, a slight sting as well perhaps?" She named everything she was experiencing so he could understand what she was feeling and his large hands rubbed her hips to help her body relax again.

"It'll feel like Valhalla soon." He groaned deeply, his cock sinking deeper inside of her while she nuzzled his neck. "And the more we do this, sæta, the better it'll feel for her."

"Really~?" She smiled and gasped when Harald repositioned her hips to a different angle that made his cock go deeper.

"Yes~ and if the gods are in our favor, we might be granted lots of children as well." He wrapped one of his arms around her arched back to keep her that way while he thrusted a bit faster, the curve of his cock brushing against her spot perfectly over and over again.

"I'd love to have your children one day." She moaned softly, tightening her walls around him.

"I know you do." He smirked and reached down between their sweating bodies, fingertips stroking that small bundle of nerves to help send her over the edge. "It's alright, ketta~ let it go and give me what I want so I can give you my seed and have you bear my children."

Her body began to shake by his words and she couldn't suppress her loud moans anymore. This feeling, the feeling that was so right and wrong at the same time was just too enjoyable.

She and her body couldn't take much more of it honestly.

Inhaling deeply, the woman gave into the strange yet delightful feeling and finally the knot of pleasure exploded, the wonderful feelings coursing through her entire body as she clung to her husband.

"Harald~ oh gods." She smiled and panted, feeling his cock twitch against her spot before he came deep inside of her and coated her tight walls with his seed.

"You felt so perfect, my queen." He buried his face on the crook of her neck, leaving short loving kisses there while he slowly thrusted his cum deeper into her.

"So what now, my king?" She spoke softly not to interrupt the peace they both felt and he carefully pulled out.

"We go back to the feast and make sure we do this again at the end of our wedding~ hoping my seed will take soon." He smiled and gently helped her stand up so he could redress her.

#harald hardrada #harald sigurdsson #Harald #Harald sigurdsson x reader #vikings valhalla #vikings imagine #requests #smut #fluff #angst #slight breeding kink #arranged marriage #in the gods’ favor

[onesaltyhunter]

After Ragnarok

find the general masterlist here!

find the prologue here!

Part 1: A Particularly (Shitty) Family Reunion

Harald Sigurdsson x Goddess!Reader

Summary: Y/N meets back with (what is left) of her family, and is met with a new face in the city of Kattegat. After a brief gathering, the Prince of Norway yet again, struggles with another brush with death.

Warnings: Swearing, more Christian hate because Hel likes to poke fun at people, near death experiences, people getting the shit beaten out of them lmao

Y/N had fallen asleep after returning to her home. The wind was violently causing the trees nearby to shed their branches, each of which crashed and hit the wooden roof of the cottage with a loud bang. Propping a pillow over her head didn't help to muffle the sounds at all, but she did it anyway. Y/N turned onto her side to face the fire she had lit to the right of her bed.

In an instant, the fire was extinguished. Y/N slowly opened her eyes, struggling to sit up, due to her lack of sleep from the current week. Then the smell of a familiar substance filled the house: seawater. A medium-toned voice resounded in her head.

We need to talk.

Y/N's eyes darted from each side of the house, looking for the supposed culprit. There was no trace of anyone ever being in her home that night, besides herself.

"You know, you could just let me sleep for once." She immediately sat up in bed, rubbing her eyes.

Eh, when have we ever been the people to take a break?

"You know the realms have gone to shit when Ymir decides to bless you with the power to speak in my fucking head." Y/N reached for a fur blanket that she could wrap herself with.

~●~●~●~●~

Leif, Freydis, and Harald sat a table in the main longhouse, sipping ale among a few other warriors that returned from England. It was dead silent before one of them attempted to speak.

"Harald, you look..." Leif started to say as the prince shot him a "don't you even dare say it" glance.

"Like shit?" Freydis chuckled, setting her cup down. "According to the healer, you shouldn't even be sitting up right now. They said that the back of your head bled a river."

Harald remained silent. After he was returned to his home, he had checked his heads for any wounds. He found nothing. He washed his hair to find no traces of blood, not even a single place upon his head where it hurt to the touch. He vividly remembered everything that happened up until his collapse. Y/N, the dead who walked--Harald couldn't comprehend a thing.

Grasping the cross around his neck, he wanted some confirmation that this was the work of the devil. At the same time, he didn't want to believe that one of the elites of Kattegat was capable of such things. But, overall, he didn't want to accept that the woman resembled the goddess of death. After all, the Christian God was the "one true God". He wanted to strongly believe that, but it was if his entire encounter threw that sentence out the door.

Harald opened his mouth to speak, but was interuppted by the yells from a group of warriors, entering the hall. Haakon, on her wooden throne, immediately stood up.

"May I present, Noah Odinsson!" One of the men shouted, introducing a tall, dark haired man, who easily towered over most people in the hall.

"Odinsson?" Harald stood up and spoke his first words of the night. "How far can you possibly shove your head up your arse?"

The man simply raised a brow and stared at the group at the table. Leif stood up to calm Harald down, since they believed he was obviously drunk. Freydis, gulped and gripped the knife in her left pocket tightly.

"Your words mean nothing, Christian." Noah smiled. "Especially with blood as tainted as yours."

"What is that supposed to mean? Huh?" Harald broke free from Leif's grip and unsheathed his sword, before swinging at the stranger.

Noah dodged every hit, left and right. Effortlessly, he grabbed the sword by the blade and held on to it. Harald tried to pull it from him, but it wouldn't budge. He looked up towards the slightly taller individual, and stared at what looked to be glowing blue eyes. In an attempt to get a better look at him, Harald let go of his sword. Noah let the blade slide farther down in his grip, handing it back to the prince.

"Jarl Haakon!" He immediately turned his attention away from Harald. "I requested a place to rest for me and my men."

"And you shall be given one, Odinsson." She replied, with an annoyed look plastered across her face.

"I've had enough of this." Harald slammed his cup on the table before exiting the longhouse.

Noah shook his head, smiling.

~●~●~

Harald was walking towards his home but was caught off guard by Y/N speaking to herself.

"What the fuck do you mean that there's something wrong?" She mumbled, as she continued pacing towards the shoreline.

"Hello." Harald didn't know of any other way to catch her attention, and his smile immediately faded once she shot an angry look at him.

"I'm busy right now..."

"You seem troubled."

"I'm always fucking troubled." Y/N attempted to turn a right after a fisherman's home, but Harald followed.

"You saved me." He exhaled, and she stopped in her path.

"I did."

"And those soldiers you brought back to life." Harald attempted to maintain a stoic glare.

"Did you just arrive here after drinking in the longhouse?" Y/N raised a brow, turning around towards the building and he replied with a small nod. "Fuck, I want whatever substance they're putting in their ale."

Y/N began to approach the longhouse even thought the voice in her head yelled louder. It was repetitive, and an annoyance. Perhaps it was better if her brother had been given some other power?

I'm trying to describe the problem to you, not guide you towards it. Damn this prince! Y/N, you need to turn around.

"No." She hid her reply in a cough.

"What was that?" Harald caught up to her speedwalking pace.

"Ugh, it's cold."

"Oh."

The instant Y/N reached the corner of the longhouse, her ears began to ring. Not in a destructive way, but more of a distinct, magical manner. She ignored it, and continued into the building. There on one of the middle tables, sat Noah, who glanced back at her. He clearly wasn't human, at all. The two stared at each other for around 3 minutes, with everyone in the longhouse confused, and perhaps even a bit uninterested. Noah approached Y/N, and leaned over to whisper in her ear.

"I missed you." He grinned, as she still stood there, absolutely lost.

Harald wanted to tear this man apart. He saw the confused, and irritated look on Y/N's face and for some unknown reason, he just wanted to tear this "Odinsson" to shreds. Had he said something that violated her? Had he been a man out to hunt her? He didn't hear a thing, but the now angry look on Y/N's face said it all. But after all, he couldn't do anything, because Haakon outlawed major fights in the hall.

"Excuse me for a moment," A man with sea-soaked clothes placed his hand on Y/N's shoulder and seemingly dragged her outside.

"Where the fuck have you been?" He snarled, looking around. "He's here."

Y/N placed both of her hands on her brother's shoulders.

"Who? Who the fuck is he--" She turned to face a blade that was pointed at Jormungandr.

"Leave her." Harald gripped his sword even tighter.

"We're busy!" The two yelled in unison.

"Are you..."

"Her brother? Yes, now kindly fuck off. We have family matters to attend to."

Absolutely angered by how poorly he had been treated, Harald retreated to his home--his original destination. It was as if any time he tried to speak with Y/N, had been forbidden by God himself. He simply wanted to punch a wall out of complete frustration, but he refrained from doing so. After he entered his home, he sat on his bed, and began to grip the cross on his necklace tight. Closing his eyes, he hoped to picture anything that would bring him any joy whatsoever. For a split second, he saw a dark-red flame, followed by a brief scream, which shook him out of his thoughts. Harald looked around his bedroom, for a sign of anyone, and there wasn't a single one. Perhaps this was a sign from God himself, that he must not approach Y/N at any cost. But again, if God was truly almighty and righteous, he wouldn't have let innocents die on Saint Brice's Day.

Harald wanted to drift off to sleep, but instead he laid in bed, staring blindly at the ceiling--for he feared what nightmarish sights awaited him the instant he shut his eyes.

~●~●~

Jormungandr guided Y/N to the edge of a coastline which was blocked off by a moss-lined cliff--a great distance away from Kattegat. He sat down with his feet lined up where the edge of the tide rolled in. Y/N followed and sat next to him, staring off into what would soon become the rising sun.

"Who is here?" Y/N stared at her brother, beginning to stack a few pebbles next to herself. "I mean, how detrimental must this be? You only come out of the water once every three decades."

"I cannot say. I know who they are, and--" He paused, picking up a stone and throwing it into the sea. "There is some power preventing me from saying."

"I'm sorry, some pesky creature has got you under it's spell?" She chuckled, raising a brow, only to receive a look of desperation in return. "By the blood of Ymir, it fucking does doesn't it?"

"I have a contingency plan."

"Which is?"

The shuffling of feet resounded against the bluff behind them. What was assumed to be a weaker Jotunn warrior by Y/N appeared to be another human. Or at least, what looked to be a human. The man had glowing yellow eyes, and medium length hair that resembled freshly mined coal. She recognized him instantly. Fenrir. The brother who was responsible for telling their father of her relationship with Baldur--the man who angered Odin into a battle that would end in near-complete annihilation.

"Harald Sigurdsson, hm?" Fenrir stared into the horizon before glancing at Y/N, who now refused to make eye contact with him. "Talk about polluting the bloodline."

"Jor-"

"Yes, Y/N?"

"I'm going to strangle him."

"I'd love to see you tr-" Fenrir gasped when Y/N caught him in a chokehold, and slammed him violently against the face of the cliff.

Rocks tumbled from above, signaling the fall of a larger rock but Y/N was relentless. Her right hand began turning into its original corpse-like form, as she channeled the power of 8 realms through it. She wanted to watch her brother meet his bitter end but she stopped abruptly. Fenrir was still shaking, his teeth chattering ever so slightly, in complete shock after everything that had just happened.

"Hel, I should have known better." Fenrir shook his head. "And for that I'm truly sorry."

"You're only saying this because you don't have mother and father to protect you anymore." She shoved him, causing him to scrape his knees against the rocks. "Do you hear me? You are nothing without them!"

Jormungandr sat, unmoved by the whole situation. Both he and Y/N were given simple lifestyles before Ragnarok. He churned the seas, and she controlled one of the afterlife realms--constantly being tortured by Fenrir's petty nature. The wolf was like a child, always wanting attention and praise, and and he did not receive it, he broke down, similar to what he was doing currently.

"We will never get anything done if you two keep fighting." He picked up another rock to throw, but this time, he held it in his hand.

"Fighting? We are not fighting." Y/N stood up straight and shook her head, a little out of breath. "Saying we are fighting implies that both sides have a chance."

"Shut up, brother." Fenrir attempted to stand up, but Y/N kicked at his kneecaps to knock him down again. "You know he doesn't even have a plan?"

"You dragged, my ass, away from drinking heavily, so that I may get too see what's left of my family, and nothing more?" She began to clap slowly. "Congratulations Jor! You have accomplished abso-fucking-lutely nothing."

Y/N paused, as she felt what seemed to be a spark of energy shoot through her body--signaling that someone was on the brink of death nearby. Without warning, she began to run towards the city, bumping into merchants if she had to. The sound of a man coughing became louder, but what she did not know is that her brothers were following close behind her. The sounds of the sick and dying individual came from one of the largest establishments in the city: the prince's house.

"Harald?" Y/N yelled, and once she received no response, she kicked the far right side of the door open, seeing the prince shirtless, with blood trickling down from his mouth onto his chest. "Harald! Damn it!"

Fenrir walked in behind her, and Jormungandr soon after.

"Did you bring a horse here?" She said softly to her eldest brother. "Damn it, I'll ask it again, did you bring a fucking horse here you foul-witted dog!"

"Bring it to the door. And Jor, pick Harald up, place him on the horse, and take him to my home. Now! You cold-blooded son of a bitch!"

The two did as they were told, still a little petrified about how violent their sister had gotten over the centuries. A once solemn, kind soul had been replaced with a vengeful, violent maniac in what seemed to be mere hours after the great catastrophe. Perhaps they underestimated how the events that preceeded Ragnarok affected her--perhaps everyone did.

Y/N ran to her home, which was probably going to be faster than the traveling by horse in the wind. The instant she reached it, she began to clear off her workspace, both the table where the bodies laid, and the area where she set her tools. Reaching for a few cups, she set them all out in a line. Jormungandr arrived first, carrying Harald, before setting him upon the main table. Fenrir came soon after making sure that none of them were followed. Y/N examined Harald, who was continuing to cough up blood. His eyes were dilated, and a drop of blood fell out of his left eye. With a wave of her hand, the prince passed out, in an attempt to stabilize him.

"Asgardian magic." Fenrir loomed over the dying lord. "It's what they used in a surprise attack on our soldiers after we breached the bifrost."

"That has to be ingested for it to fully take effect." Y/N paused. "The longhouse."

"I know who did it." Jormungandr replied, and his siblings merely looked at him in disbelief, as a reminder that he had a temporary curse that prevented him from warning the of the exact individual who presented a danger in the city.

"Odinsson. Noah Odinsson. What if that man was truly a son of Odin?" Fenrir cocked his head to the side. "Sorry I didn't say anything to you two earlier. I was um... drinking."

"That wouldn't narrow it down at all. I mean I've known Harald for a day and yes I admire him--" Y/N looked at her brothers who were holding in a laugh, after Fenrir had an "I told you so" expression plastered across his face. "What if this isn't about him? What if this is about me?"

"As you said, this narrows nothing down. Every son of Odin hates us. Except Baldur, so we can exclude him."

"Thor maybe?"

Y/N reached for a red stone, which she began to ground into a powder, before mixing it into a small cup of water. With a quick flick of her wrist, she woke Harald up, easing him into a sitting position with her arm. She handed him the cup, which he immediately drank out of, without question. He placed his hand on her forearm which elicited a slight jump from Y/N. Tilting his head up a bit towards her, he mumbled a few words, each of which were unintelligible.

"What?"

"Hot. It's really hot." He managed to speak out.

"The cure to your ailments is going to hurt a lot, just bare with me." Y/N helped to prop him up in a stable manner.

"Have I not bared enough for you?" Harald mumbled once more. "I sit here next to you, slightly uncovered, and I try to speak my feelings but all you do is--"

He collapsed and Y/N caught him again, with both of her arms tucked under his shoulders.

"What a madman." She chuckled, placing a pillow underneath his head. "Ah, feelings. What an archaic commodity. Have you seen this idiot?"

"You just saved his life, now you care not for him?" Fenrir crossed his arms. "Never took you for a heartless bitch."

"Coming from you--" She paused, placing a hand on her brother's shoulder. "That isn't saying much."

"Son of Odin." Jormungandr blurted out. "Sorry, I've been trying to speak for the past few minutes. That was all I could get out. I'm trying to see if I can break this forsaken spell or curse or, whatever it is, in pieces, rather than as a whole."

Y/N shook her head in disbelief to feel Harald's hand wrapped around her wrist. It wasn't in a violent way, but rather in a comforting manner. She took a step away from him and his grip became tighter, then she took a step towards him, then the girl became loosened. Completely unwavering, Y/N grabbed his hand to remove it from herself.

I will not allow my son to be alongside those weakened forest gods. He is of our pantheon, not theirs! He was born to seize control of the northern lands, not to sympathize with those who currently roam them! Perhaps I shall let some other faithful Christian do this for me. A low voice resounded.

Y/N woke up on the ground with Harald kneeling next to her, his hand still gripping her left wrist tightly. His eyes shimmered in the torch's light nearby, giving off an crimson glow. Perhaps she was just hallucinating. It didn't stop Harald from helping her up, and leaning her against the workbench to help her catch her breath.

"Lady, are you--" Harald paused, fearing a possible negative reaction from referring to her in a formal manner. "Y/N, how are you feeling?"

"How am I feeling? How are you feeling? You've been speaking like you hit your head a little harder than I thought the other day." Y/N reached past him to pour herself a cup of water from a metal pitcher. "'Feelings' and shit like that. You sounded like you drank enough ale to fill Odin's hall twice over!" A brief pause. "Sorry, you're a Christian. Enough to fill Jesus' cave I guess."

"It's a tomb." He corrected her, before looking down abruptly. "I apologize."

"Ooooh, the pagan doesn't know anything about Christianity." She smiled, "How surprising. W-Where have my brothers gone?"

"No idea." Harald placed both of his hands on his hips.

The two stared at each other for a brief minute as thoughts rushed through both of their heads.

Is he the son of Lucifer? Oh, who am I kidding? I must have hit my head extremely hard or something. Y/N began to glare into his spruce-tinged eyes.

She must be a goddess. Had it not for her magic, twice, I would have died. Christ, if this is God's way of tempting me, I am sure to give in soon enough. Harald smiled for a brief second.

"You must be hungry." She broke the silence to reach for some of the vegetables she left out on a table next to her workspace.

"Oh God no, please don't cook for me. Really, it just seems wrong for a warrior like you to do such a thing." He immediately paused. Warrior? What was he thinking?

"Well guess what? I'm hungry, and I just can't seem to make the correct amount of food to only fill my own stomach so please, if you want some, please tell me." She looked over at a vial of a substance she had retrieved on her travels.

Whatever it was, it was known to be extremely potent. The ability to get any human to tell the truth about anything. It could be a stepping stone to figuring out who this man's dangerous father character was. Perhaps it even may have had the ability to exploit Harald's knowledge of everything to see if she could discover this other dangerous figure Jormungandr spoke of. After reaching for it, the now sitting Harald took off his necklace, twirling it around between his fingers.

"Aren't you not supposed to take that off, Christian?" Y/N raised a brow, taking the lid off of the vial. "Will your God not punish you for that?"

"I-I don't know." He stuttered. "It just... Nothing feels right."

After seeing Harald set his necklace down on a table and him planting his face between his palms, Y/N screwed the lid back onto the vial.

I've done this countless times before. Since when did this not feel fucking right?

#harald x reader #jarl haakon #freydis eriksdotter #freydis #leif eriksson #leif #harald sigurdsson x reader #harald sigurdsson

[lina-lovebug]

THE LEGACY

Ivar Lothbrok great granddaughter x Harald Sigurdsson

Part one.

________________________

"You're fucking joking."

"I wish I was, but he's so handsome! He's a Prince, (Y/N)!"

"He's a Christian," (Y/N) hissed, "I will never relinquish my gods for his false one."

Religion wad a sensitive topic for her. As the great granddaughter of Ivar the Boneless, she hated the Christians as much as he did and vowed to never align herself with one. They raped her people, they slaughtered them, all because they would not convert.

It was disgusting.

"You will have to meet him soon. You have been betrothed since you were six," It was true. Although hardly ever seeing Harald, she was his betrothed. She's only ever seen him five times since they were young, and each time she could never understand him.

Harald didn't know the Viking language, but despite that, (Y/N) was forced to learn English by her mother in order to better communicate with her fiance.

She complained that it should be her learning, but Harald must learn his true mother tongue. Tove, her mother, disagreed on this and insisted she must be do this to not only be a generous wife, but a great leader.

And she couldn't argue that once her grandmother, Marie Lothbrok, had also agreed with her mother. Plus it would be very hypocritical that Marie, daughter of Ivar, wouldn't sanction this union since her own mother was a Christian.

"Ironic that Ivar, the man who hated Christians, married one-"

"She relinquished her false faith for my great grandfathers. She loved him," (Y/N) knew of the stories.

"If she loved him, should you not do the same?" Astrid questioned, earning a glare from the young girl.

"Never."

_____

"Has my bride been avoiding me all night?"

(Y/N) stopped mid drink and turned around to see him, the man she's been fated to since childhood and yet he wears the cross of the enemy around him.

"Depends. Are you converting when we are wed?" She questioned, the attitude and hatred clear in her voice.

"Straight to the point, I see."

"And you still need me to speak English," She pointed out.

"Why must I convert?" She snorted.

"I would rather be Blood Eagled than betray Odin."

"Do not say that, please-"

"Why not? My entire life, I have had to make accommodations for you. Learn English, be more lady like, learn about a fucking book that's been changed a hundred times. So please forgive me if I am pissed that you would suggest I do one more fucking thing for you," She hissed, getting in his face and that's when he saw it.

The Ivar eyes.

Many she directly inherited the rage from Ivar, and when she looked at you, it was like Ivar himself awaiting to skin you alive.

"If this is how angry you will be with all our arguments, forgive me if I'm turned on everytime," He smirked.

"Wh-what?" She stepped back.

"You pig. How can you be a prince if you can't even bother to speak our language?"

"I am learning best I can, (Y/N)."

"Sure," She rolled her eyes before beginning to push him out.

"I must change. I am tired."

"Will we do this everytime? I would like to one day know what my wife looks like underneath all that," He winked.

"Ugh, as if," She shoved him out.

"I will bare you sons, but we shall have separate beds," She said before closing the door.

"As if you could resist me."

"As if you could go five minutes without speaking," She mumbled to herself, hoping to Odin that this union would be destroyed or that he would atleast be more tolerable.

Hope you've enjoyed! It's gonna be a small series but the thought came to mind if Harald was betrothed to (Y/N) Lothbrok, Ivars great granddaughter who has made a big name for herself in Kattegat.

#harald sigurdsson #vikings valhalla #vikings imagine #valhalla imagine #ivartheboneless

[lordavanti]

Near death

Harald Sigurdsson x Reader Warnings: Violence Words: 882

As a woman, you feared this day, as a Viking there had been nothing you looked more forward to. And even when you had to admit you didn’t trust the Greenlander completely, his plan had something unexpected. But they killed your father, your grandfather and there was nothing more you wanted than to drive your ax through their flesh. ‘What are you thinking about?’ He asked. You looked away from the London bridge that lay behind the swamps. As you turned your head you were met with his handsome face. ‘That we survive.’ You answered honestly while turning your head back to watch the bridge. You felt his body move until he stood right behind you, his lips resting against your ear. His arm sneaked around you and you closed your eyes, entangling your fingers with his. ‘We will get through this.’ He whispered. You let your head rest against his shoulder, turning it so you could gaze back into his eyes. ‘Be safe.’ You softly said. That look he always had, that intense gaze as he stroked his fingers under your chin, you always fell for that, over and over again. But before he could kiss you, you got disturbed. ‘Prince Harald, we need to go.’ Somebody said. You diverted your eyes back to the swamps as he let go of you. ‘We will finish this once we are reunited.’ He said. You didn’t look at him, not until he turned his back to you. You looked at him while he walked away, always so confident, always so well aware of his duties and tasks. But it wasn’t until you were with King Canute on that bridge that you realized that this maybe wasn’t the right place for you. A fight broke loose and you yelled while storming toward those English soldiers. Your hatred chopped them apart while you and the others made some progress. But that progress was only a delay for the Greenlander and Harald to damage the bridge. And when Canute commanded you to retreat you turned around, followed by the sharp pain as a soldier reached forward, stabbing you in the back. You gasped, reaching down to your stomach before you collapsed on that bridge. You wouldn’t make it back. The only thing you seemed to remember was somebody dragging you away. When you woke up you were hardly able to keep your eyes open. A fever had hit and there was some servant before patching up the wound you had. When you focussed long enough you realized that servant wasn’t the only one there. There was a woman in the doorway, not any woman. It was Emma. ‘You are the only woman.’ She noticed with a calm voice. She shouldn’t be surprised by this, yet it seemed to fascinate her. ‘Is that the only reason why I’m here?’ You asked tiredly. She smiled, shaking her head. ‘You are the only one who survived.’ She said. You swallowed, not having an idea of what was currently happening outside. Did they succeed in destroying the bridge? Had they lost? ‘I’m nobody.’ You muttered, closing your eyes as you shivered when the servant touched your wound. You expected her to ask for something, but when you opened your eyes she was listening to one of her guards. Something in her face seemed worried before she threw you another look and left your naked cold room. Not much after that, the servant left as well, leaving you in this agony. You rather took your own life than be imprisoned here, but even for that, you were simply too weak. Days. Days of fading in the darkness and pulling yourself back out of it. Nobody came, not that servant, not Emma, nobody. Up until the fourth day. You were hardly able to open your eyes when somebody opened the door. ‘She is one of uss,’ one said, you recongized it’s Viking voice. Finally. ‘It’s Y/n, get her out of here, find Harald!’ One commanded before somebody lifted your from that cold floor. You whined before it became dark again. When you woke up again something seemed better. Maybe it was the softness of the bed, or maybe the clearity of your mind. Or maybe it was just Harald, the first thing you saw when you opened your eyes. He was passing, worried. You grunted, trying to adjust your body to sit up a little bit more. And that drawn his attention as he came to the bed. ‘Y/n, by the gods,’ he sat down, wrapping your face in one of his hands. ‘I have been searching everywhere for you.’ ‘I’m fine.’ You hoarsly said. He searched your eyes, his worry, his love, you broke under his look. A single tear rolled over your cheeck. ‘Next time you fight aside of me.’ He said while chasing the tear away from your cheeck. You lifted your hand, touching his cheeck before letting it rest against his chest. ‘Don’t leave.’ You whispered, curling your fingers around his tunic as you weakly pulled him closer. He pressed his lips against yours and your closed your eyes. A kiss that shouldn’t be given since you felt so weak. But you needed it, because his strenght was the only thing that always pulled you throught.

#vikings valhalla #vikings #vikings valhalla fics #Harald #harald sigurdsson #Harald x reader #Vikings Valhalla drabble #Harald fic #Harald sigurdsson fic #Harald drabble

[bumblesimagines]

Under The Moonlight

Part 2

Request: Yes or No

~~~

Their cell felt cold and dark. Hay sparsely covered the solid ground and the windows were covered, making the circle in the ceiling their only form of light apart from the single torch in the corner. Dust clung to the air and walls, telling (Y/N) the jail was very rarely used. Jarl Haakon appeared to run a tight ship.

But even with years of experience under her belt, she hadn't foreseen the attack Freydis had launched on the Christian. She'd been successful without Harald's keen eye trained on her. Using her knife, she had carved a cross into the man's chest just as he had done to her back years prior. The aftermath had been far from calm but Jarl Haakon had been convinced to provide them a proper trial rather than take their heads.

So, there they were... Sitting in a cold cell with a murky future ahead of them. (Y/N) could only stare at the flickering flame of the torch, his finger tracing over the thread of his necklace, feeling his skin brush against the canine teeth tied to it. None of them had gotten a wink of sleep with the threat of death looming over them and (Y/N) could feel the consequences of it knawing at the back of his eyes. His siblings sat silently with their knees up to their chests, gazes distant as they stared forward. 

"Do you feel justice?" Leif broke the silence first with his words, lifting his head and looking at the exhausted Freydis. 

"Yes, I do," Freydis answered softly and craned her neck to look at them over her shoulder. Even with the dim lighting, (Y/N) could still see the drops of blood splattered on her face. "I feel cleansed."

"Good." Leif breathed, nodding to himself before continuing. "Because now they intend to kill us."

"I don't believe that. Father said-"

"Father was wrong." Leif interrupted and Freydis frowned, looking away from them as her bottom lip began to quiver. "He's a stranger to this world, Freydis. He does not know how much has changed since he left."

"Then I believe in Jarl Haakon." Freydis asserted, eyes beginning to gloss over with fresh tears. Guilt and hope battled within her, (Y/N) saw it in her eyes. She'd gotten her justice but at what cost? Her life? Her brothers' lives?

"I believe in her too." (Y/N) muttered, voice barely above a whisper. "Her face changed when she heard what happened, Leif. She may not allow us to go unpunished, but she may allow us to live."

"Jarl Haakon may feel sympathy, but she is in a difficult position. If she releases us, she risks war. Christians will burn down Kattegat and many of her people will die. It is in her best interest to have us killed." 

"Then we die together. We came here for Freydis. We knew the risks and dangers. I would rather die beside my family than surrounded by strangers on a battlefield." (Y/N) declared, turning his attention onto Freydis. Her lips pursed and she released a breathy, sad chuckle as she turned her head to gaze fondly at her brother. Tears had already begun to slip down her cheeks but his words put a warm smile on her face. Allowing his shoulders to slump, Leif inhaled deeply and nodded in agreement, reaching his arm out to wrap it around his brother's shoulder. 

"We fought together and we'll die together," Leif muttered, resting his cheek against (Y/N) head. 

Freydis's lips parted, almost as if to speak, but her words caught in her throat when the cell door slung open and three Vikings entered with chains and shackles in their hands. While the one with chains approached Freydis, the other two walked toward the brothers and roughly pulled them up onto their feet, placing the shackles on their wrists and shoving them forward toward the doors. They were escorted out of the cell and down an equally dimly lit hallway before being directed outside and toward the hall where Jarl Haakon and King Canute waited for them. 

The hall had already been filled with Vikings, mainly Christians seeking justice for their fallen friend. They glared and sneered and jeered, gazing upon them as if they were mere filth. (Y/N) felt the hate and rage in their gazes. Even if they barely cared for the murdered Christian, following another god was a sin worthy of death for many of them. Their hatred could move mountains, but on most days, it burned down homes and slaughtered innocents. 

"Freydis Eriksdotter, you are accused of murdering a man you claimed attacked you." Jarl Haakon took her seat on her throne, head lifting as she regarded Freydis. "Have you a way to prove this?"

"Did I put the scar on my back?"

"Any one of your lovers could have done that to you!" One of the Christians, Jarl Olaf Haraldsson, sneered from his spot in the crowd, glaring at them with the same fury and disgust.

Freydis scowled. "The Gods know the whole truth!"

"False Gods!" Jarl Olaf spat back, rousing the crowd with his words as Vikings called their agreements or disagreed with him. In an attempt to quiet the crowd, Jarl Haakon repeatedly hit the floor with her staff, frown deepening when it proved futile and tensions grew.

"There is only one false God! Your Christian God!" Jarl Gorm bellowed, his voice carrying above all others.

"Silence!" Jarl Haakon called, slamming her staff down one last time and watching the men finally settle down. With the attention back on the trial instead of religion, Jark Haakon sighed and nodded to Freydis.

"In the old ways, you would be well within your rights to take revenge. But we live in different times. There are those gathered among us who feel that your claims require further truth. Can you provide it?"

"A trial by combat." Freydis proposed, shifting her gaze onto Jarl Olaf, a man thrice her size. (Y/N) felt his breath catch in his throat, widened eyes meeting Leif's as the two exchanged a panicked glance. Freydis could hold her own, they knew that well, but Jarl Olaf was far more experienced in combat and strategy than any of them. "If I am lying, the Gods will not protect me."

"Combat? With me?" Jarl Olaf snickered and the rest of the hall howled with laughter.

Lips pulling into an amused smirk, Jarl Haakon eyed the cackling man. "You are her accuser. Are you afraid?" Her words caused Jarl Olaf's face to burn, glaring at those among him who laughed at him instead. Eager to shake the embarrassment and attention off, he stepped forward and addressed the quiet man beside Jarl Haakon.

"King Canute, this woman's actions have robbed you of a valuable part of your arsenal. Not having Gunnar puts the lives of everyone in this room, Christian and Pagan, at risk. Therefore, I implore you and the noble ruler of Kattegat to acknowledge that debt and make her pay for it with her life!" Turning, he shouted as he pointed at Freydis. With the crowd once again growing rowdy, Jarl Olaf smugly smirked and stepped back into line. The confidence on his face made (Y/N) grind his teeth.

"Jarl Haakon, may I speak?" Harald called out, stepping forward when the woman nodded. Motioning toward Jarl Olaf, he began. "Jarl Olaf makes an excellent argument. Gunnar was an important part of our strategy, and his loss will indeed cause hardship. But my brother may have also offered a better solution. Since this woman cost you a vital element to your mission, should she not be forced to render something of equal, if not greater value to our endeavor?"

"Such as?" King Canute prompted and leaned forward, resting his arms on his knees. With King Canute's interest piqued, the end of Harald's lips twitched upward and he turned his head to look at the siblings, gaze lingering on Freydis before he lifted his arm.

"Her brothers: Leif Eriksson and (Y/N) Eriksson." Harald answered. Freydis went rigid, eyes widening as her brothers were pushed forward for King Canute to look upon. "Sons of the Great Berserker, Erik the Red. Leif is one of, if not the best ship captains in this room. He piloted his ship across open ocean from Greenland through a storm that killed scores of others, with the help of his brother, (Y/N), who possesses incredible fighting skills I've witnessed myself. Should we doubt their motivation, they will be fighting for the life... of their sister." 

Harald had offered a solution without bloodshed. A solution that saved their lives, if they didn't die in the war instead. (Y/N)'s throat felt dry but a sense of relief settled on his chest, eyes shifting to look at his sister. Freydis appeared near tears, nearly trembling as she stared at Jark Haakon and King Canute. They could easily dismiss it and proceed with killing them but as the two leaders looked at each other, it seemed like they were in agreement. 

"Leif Eriksson, (Y/N) Eriksson, I ransom your sister to King Canute. To repay her debt, you both must pledge service to his cause. Do you accept these terms?" Jark Haakon asked. (Y/N) looked at his brother next, staring into Leif's blue eyes and searching for any ounce of doubt. But he found none. And Leif found none in (Y/N) either. 

"I do." With their answer, Jarl Haakon nodded for her men to release the brothers. One man took Freydis by the arm and pulled her away, only letting the brothers stare after their sister as the shackles were removed from their wrists. And while they physically weren't shackled anymore, they were still in chains. Tied to King Canute until his war ended. But their sister would live and that was all that mattered to (Y/N).

"I believe this is yours," Harald said, pulling their attention onto him. Harald extended his arm toward him, offering back his precious dagger. (Y/N) felt a sense of relief and security wash over him, gently picking up the dagger and sliding it into his rightful place. Noticing the calm that wash over the younger man, Harald smiled. "Come, both of you. I must show you something." 

"What is it?" Leif asked curiously, a hint of caution in his voice as the brothers followed Harald out of the hall but the Viking simply grinned at them. The other Greenlanders quickly joined them, quietly asking questions and glancing at each other nervously when Leif answered them. They weaved their way through the bustling town, reaching the dock where ships awaited them, many being prepared and packed for the trip to England. Harald led them toward one in particular.

"It was my father's ship." He revealed, stopping before it and watching the Greenlanders begin to board and explore it curiously. (Y/N) followed his brother on, looking over the woodwork of it. The ship was far larger than the boat they'd used to sail to Kattegat, sturdier and meant for many Vikings. A true warship. "And now it's yours," Harald added, drawing the brothers' attention. (Y/N) met Leif's gaze, shrugging his shoulders when the older man raised a brow. 

"It's a nice boat." (Y/N) murmured, running a hand over the ledge of the boat before peering up at Harald and catching sight of his prideful smile.

"I'm glad you find it so," Harald replied, his gaze focused solely on the young Greenlander. His eyes studied (Y/N) closely, almost as if he were trying to commit every detail about him to memory. When Harald finally pried his eyes off him, he motioned toward the boat docked beside them. (Y/N) turned his head and easily spotted it. Perhaps twice as large as the boat they were on and suited for royalty. Shields had been fasted to the sides of it, proudly displaying the colors of Norway's flag. "But that is the ship I covet."

"King Harald of Norway, hm?" Leif spoke in a teasing tone, his grin only growing when he noticed the surprised look that passed over his brothers' features. (Y/N)'s eyes widened slightly and his head snapped in the direction of his brother. His skin flushed lightly and he avoided Harald's amused gaze.

"Someday." Harald smiled warmly before nodding to them and heading down the dock.

Leaning his hip against the wall of their new ship, (Y/N) watched the dark-haired prince, feeling his skin prickle with some embarrassment when Harald looked back toward him, coming to a slow stop and holding his gaze. Averting his eyes, (Y/N) cleared his throat and faced his brother, arms crossing over his chest. "You could've mentioned he was a prince."

"I enjoy it when you make a fool of yourself." Leif chuckled, helping Yrsa and Toke bring everyone's belongings on board. (Y/N) couldn't help the small smile that stretched across his face, rolling his eyes at his brother's words and stepping toward Yrsa to help as well. Leif questioned his friends, allowing them to choose whether they'd join him in battle or remain safe in Kattegat. With the boat ready to go, (Y/N) and Leif stepped back onto the dock and exchanged farewells with the friends who chose to remain in Kattegat. 

Feeling Leif tug on his arm, he turned his head and spotted their sister making her way down the dock with Harald, a wide smile on her face. She embraced Leif first, giving him a tight hug and rubbing his arm. Gazing at (Y/N), she hugged him next and sighed softly, tightening her hold on him for a moment before stepping back. With quivering lips and watery eyes, she smiled. "I will make sacrifices to Odin for your safe return."

"We'll be fine. You take care of yourself." Leif smiled softly at her and she nodded, leaning in to kiss his cheek. She inhaled and looked at (Y/N), rolling her lips into her mouth and stepping forward for a second hug. (Y/N) chuckled softly, stroking the back of her head and holding her close.

"Protect each other." She whispered shakily, hand rubbing his back.

"We will." (Y/N) assured, pressing a tender kiss to her temple. Freydis leaned back, using the back of her back to wipe away the tears sliding down her cheeks. She smiled warmly at the rest of her friends, stepping forward to give them each an embrace. The familiar feeling of tears prickled the back of his eyes but he blinked them away and stepped onto the boat, inhaling shakily. With the goodbyes finished, Freydis smiled sadly and looked over each of them, taking slow steps along the dock until she reached Harald and uttered a soft thanks. She glanced one last time over her shoulder before heading down the dock and disappearing from sight.

A few more Vikings joined them, some Christian, others Pagan. Among them were Jarl Gorm, the outspoken Pagon with a large figure and long ginger hair, and his son Arne, a young man with a scruffy beard and short blonde hair. Then there was Johan, a Christian Viking with hair that swept over one eye, and Tomas, a younger man with short curly black hair and boyish features. Birger, a Christian Viking who appeared to be a close friend of Harald's, joined them as well. 

(Y/N) watched the new faces join them and introduce themselves, and even with each friendly smile, he felt more and more uneasy. It'd taken nearly a year for (Y/N) to grow comfortable around the other Greenlanders, and it took another year for him to fully trust them. To have so many strangers on a boat with growing animosity between a few of them... (Y/N)'s stomach twisted. 

Noticing his tense figure, Leif placed a gentle hand on his arm. "Easy, (Y/N). We're all working together." He murmured and (Y/N) nodded, turning to watch him step onto one of the seats and look over his new crew as Njal and Skarde brought a barrel to the center of the boat.

"Listen up! All knives and axes in the barrel. No one rows with a weapon on them." 

"I don't give up my knife for anybody." Jarl Gorm voiced defiantly.

"There's only one reason to row with a weapon, and that is to kill someone else on this boat. Your enemy is not here." Leif responded, gaze shifting to his brother and giving a small shake of his head. (Y/N) rested his hand on the hilt of his dagger, satisfied he didn't have to toss it into the barrel.

"What if he is?" Arne piped up, eyeing Johan and Tomas when the two stepped by him.

"Then I'll deal with it," Leif answered cooly, face remaining stoic as he looked over the crew. For him to be taken seriously, he needed to act like a leader. Otherwise, those like Arne and Jarl Gorm would do as they pleased, even at the cost of others' lives.

Moving forward, Harald spoke and dropped his axe into the barrel. "I have no enemies here." 

With Harald making the first move, the others soon followed, dropping their axes and knives into the barrel. The outspoken men hesitated, glancing at each other and staring at the barrel as weapons were dropped in. Arne cracked first, begrudgingly dropping his axe in. Jarl Gorm held Leif's gaze challengingly but ultimately stepped forward and tossed his weapons in. (Y/N) watched him, taking note of the way he readjusted his coat with his back turned to them. Humming softly, he looked back at Leif and quirked a brow, his brother giving a small nod of acknowledgment before beckoning him over.

"I want you beside me," Leif told him, sitting down on his seat and resting his arms upon the steering oar. (Y/N) eyed Harald when the prince sat down behind Leif, a small smile appearing on the prince's face. (Y/N) frowned at him in return and took a seat on the bulwark, feeling Harald's eyes burn into the back of his head. Propping his leg up, (Y/N) placed his arm on his knee as the boat began to move forward, following King Canute's ship. Vikings released shouts and cries of encouragement as they rowed out into open water.

"Interesting necklace," Harald mentioned, retrieving a discarded rope and beginning to toy with the ends of it, gazing at the threat holding the canine teeth together around the Greenlander's neck. (Y/N) turned his attention out onto the dark waters, watching the ripples and small waves in a blatant attempt at ignoring the prince.

Leif made a noise of amusement and shook his head, fingers drumming lightly against the steering oar. "My brother has never been much of a talker."

"I can see that," Harald chuckled. 

Hours passed, the occasional silence filled with small talk between Leif and Harald. The two seemed to grow a quick tolerance for each other, even going as far as cracking a few jokes. And despite Harald's attempts at communicating with the younger Eriksson, his questions remained unanswered, though it only fueled his curiosity. Jarl Gorm eventually walked toward them, being mindful of holding onto things unless he wished to be tossed around by the rocking boat. 

"So, is this your first Viking raid? Are you nervous?" Jarl Gorm questioned, resting his hand on the side of the boat and planting his feet firmly on the wood beneath them. 

"Our father was a raider. He told us he was a Berserker." Leif said and shrugged his shoulders nonchalantly.

"That means he was a mighty warrior and killed many men." Jarl Gorm explained, stepping closer to Leif and moving his hand onto the oar. "Like Harald." Jarl Gorm motioned toward the prince and for the first time since the boat set sail, (Y/N) turned his head to look at him.

Unable to read his expression clearly, Harald cleared his throat. "So, why did he go to Greenland?"

"Because he killed men, even when he wasn't raiding," Leif answered grimly. The subject of their father never failed to make him upset. Even when Erik made attempts at being a decent father, his past and crimes always caught up to him. A past his children had to accept but Leif grew to resent.

"Have you ever killed a man before?" 

Shaking his head, Leif frowned at Jarl Gorm. "No. I've never had a reason to."

"And you, boy?" Jarl Gorm turned toward (Y/N) next. The younger Greenlander held Harald's gaze for a moment longer before looking at the older man and nodding, lips pressed into a thin line.

"Almost." (Y/N) answered and Jarl Gorm raised his brows. "He insulted my family so I bashed his face in with a rock. He lost an eye." He still remembered the day. He'd only been nine when the thirteen-year-old boy had decided to bother Erik the Red's son. He found out just how thin (Y/N)'s patience ran at the cost of an eye. The memory of his screams and wails still brought a smirk to (Y/N)'s face. 

Smirking widely, Jarl Gorm nodded his approval. "It appears we've got a Berserker in the making."

"We were children." Leif clarified hastily, a frown pulling at his lips.

"Still." Jarl Gorm insisted before he sighed heavily and looked between the two. Without their father there to guide them, it seemed as if Jarl Gorm wanted to take matters into his own hands. "The first time is sometimes difficult. A man is different. He fights back."

"So does a polar bear." Leif chided and Harald smirked, chuckling softly under his breath. Seemingly irritated with his dismissive response and Harald's amusement, Jarl Gorm's lip curled and he turned,  heading back to his seat. (Y/N) watched him go, turning his head to meet his brother's eyes and frowning. Leif responded with a small nod.

Noticing the interaction between the brothers, Harald hummed. "You can speak freely before me, (Y/N)."

"Why should I?" (Y/N) frowned at him. "I do not trust you. Prince of Norway or not, you are... nothing to me."

"I saved your lives." Harald reminded softly, brows furrowing when (Y/N)'s eyes narrowed, almost reeling back at the irritation that appeared on his face. "How can you not trust me after that?"

"Because you had no reason to. People only help others when they wish for something in return and you've yet to reveal what you want from us."

"I want nothin-"

"I do not believe you." (Y/N) interrupted him. "We owe you, you know this. So what do you want? Our blessing to couple with our sister? If she wants you, we will not stop her." 

Sighing heavily, Harald shook his head. "Freydis is an incredibly strong woman and I admire her greatly. But she does not desire me nor I her."

"Then why-" A holler for Harald came from King Canute's ship and the prince quickly rose to his feet, noticing the large ship had stopped and tilted slightly to allow for Harald to board it.

"This is not over," Harald told (Y/N) as he climbed onto the side of the ship, carefully making his way along the edge until he stepped onto the larger boat and approached King Canute beneath the pitched tent. (Y/N) clenched his jaw and shook his head, looking back at Leif. His older brother stared at him with a frown.

"What?"

"You don't need to be so harsh. I have no reason to believe he has ill intentions." Leif spoke softly, leaning into the steering oar and gazing at his brother. (Y/N) sighed, turning his head away from him. His lips parted to speak but the sight of dark clouds approaching broke his train of thought. Straightening up, (Y/N) felt the wind pick up considerably, and soon, a horn echoed as a warning of the incoming storm. Cold droplets fell onto his face and he looked back at his brother, groaning softly. Leif watched the storm, looking up at the clouds as thunder began to clap above them.

Turning to the man closest to him, he gave an order. "Lower the sail." 

"Lower the sail!" Birger called as those standing quickly sat back down and prepared to hang on for dear life. The ginger made his way toward the mast but tripped over Aren's outstretched foot, causing him to take a quick tumble onto the wet floor. 

"Watch out, Christian! Maybe you should pray to be more careful." Aren cackled loudly.

"You tripped him on purpose." Johan scoffed, droplets dripping down the side of his face as the rain pelted them.

"I did not."

"I saw you!" Johan barked and Aren's cocky smirk quickly slipped from his face.

"You callin' me a liar?" Arne questioned and stood, tapping his chest. "Come here and tell me that!" He challenged, causing Johan to rise from his spot and step toward him. But before the two men could meet in the middle, (Y/N) shoved himself between them, putting his hand on Arne's shoulder and forcing him back down to his seat.

"Resolve your issues when we reach land." (Y/N) ordered, turning his head toward Johan. He only had to give the taller man a hard look for the Christian to bow his head and lower himself back into his seat.

Leif moved to stand beside (Y/N), frowning down at Arne. "Do you have a problem with my order?"

"I'm fine." Arne raised his arms in surrender and (Y/N) removed his hand from his shoulder. Satisfied with his response, Leif nodded and patted his brother's back, turning away from the others as Jarl Gorm followed the two toward the steering oar. 

"I thought you were both followers of the Old Gods, like your father." He spoke loudly, the rain beating down on his face and causing him to squint. Merely glancing at the older man, (Y/N) slipped some rope around his palm and gripped it as tight as possible, hoping it'd keep him from falling into the turbulent waves around them. 

"We are," Leif nodded, getting behind the oar and placing his hands on it.

"Then why take the word of a Christian over my own son?"

"Because your son is a liar, Jarl Gorm." He answered bluntly before leaning back. "I suggest you hold on. It's about to get rough."

                    ➸        ➸       ➸       ➸       ➸       ➸

Thick fog surrounded them on all sides and the wind howled softly while birds circled above them. (Y/N) couldn't hear or see another boat, meaning they were all alone for now. With no land or allies in sight. And yet, (Y/N) didn't have worries or fears. His brother knew what he was doing, that was for certain. As long as Leif didn't panic, (Y/N) had no reason to worry. But the others aboard didn't know his brother as well as he did, they didn't trust him either. It was apparent in the way some Christians prayed and others stared at them accusingly. 

"We're lost, aren't we?" Jarl Gorm spoke up first, voicing the thought no doubt plaguing their minds. "You've never been to England, and you've lost us!"

"We're not lost." Leif objected tiredly and (Y/N) turned his head to look back at them, frowning at the way Jarl Gorm scowled at his brother.

"Liar! This is your fault and the fault of all the Christians and their false God. The Gods are laughing at us right now!"

"Shut up, heathen." Birger groaned.

"What did you say to me?"

"I said, shut up. You sound like a frightened child." The ginger gritted his teeth as he spoke, turning his head to look upon Jarl Gorm. The Viking slowly rose from his seat, sneering down at the man and stepping toward him. Tearing himself away from the pow, (Y/N) descended down the two steps and slammed his palm on the mast as a warning, successfully taking Jarl Gorm's attention off the man and onto him.

"Stop rowing!" Leif barked his order, walking forward toward Jarl Gorm. "What do you see that makes you believe we're lost?"

"What do I see?" Jarl Gorm repeated, turning his head from side to side before settling his gaze back on Leif and wildly motioning around them. "No land!"

"See, that is where you and I are different. The sky tells me we are headed west. Auks and gannets flying high tell me the weather is improving and we are nearing land." Leif explained, watching Jarl Gorm glance up at the birds flying above. He looked back down at Leif and swallowed.

"Then where are the other boats?"

"The other boats are not my responsibility. This boat-" Leif tapped the mast, raising his brows at Jarl Gorm. "-is my responsibility. For all you know, the other boats are lost, not ours. Now, we continue." With his words, the others resumed their rowing. Jarl Gorm accepted defeat and headed back to his spot. 

"And Jarl Gorm, stop blaming the Christians for your fears, hm?" Leif turned away from the man and (Y/N) followed suit as Birger began laughing. But when his laughter abruptly stopped and turned into gurgling, (Y/N) turned around and spotted him leaning against the side of the boat with blood pouring down his neck. The small group of Christians were immediately held back and the other Greenlanders could only stare at the bleeding man. Liv tore herself from their side and hurried over to Birger but the damage had been done. She could only provide mild comfort as he slowly died.

"I'm taking over the boat!" Jarl Gorm declared. "Arne, get the weapons."

"Let them go!" Leif demanded, pushing his way through the crew as (Y/N) quickly stood in front of the barrel, blocking Arne from reaching it just in time.

"Or what, Greenlander? You're going to kill me? I am not a bear and you are not a Viking." Jarl Gorm called hauntingly. His son glared at (Y/N) but remained rooted in his spot, eyes nervously flickering to Njal as the taller man protectively stood behind (Y/N). "You don't have the stomach to kill me."

"A polar bear thinks the same thing before he dies," Leif replied and with a grunt, Jarl Gorm lunged forward. Leif dodged the swing from his axe, slipping past him and using the mast to block Jarl Gorm's swing before he sprung out, digging his knife into the belly of the man. Leif stared him in the eyes as Jarl Gorm gasped and whimpered, digging his knife deeper and deeper. Arne whipped his head around to look at his father, staggering slightly and swallowing thickly.

"When I pull this out, you will be dead. Before I do, tell your men what you see." Leif demanded, turning the man to look forward. 

With one last dying gasp, Jarl Gorm spoke before collapsing on the ground, "England." 

"Anyone else wishes to join Jarl Gorm?" (Y/N) questioned loudly, staring at Arne and raising a brow at him. When the blonde turned away from him and slumped back down in his seat, he looked over each Viking, watching them avert their eyes and shake their heads. (Y/N) turned his attention back onto Arne, gaze lingering on him before he hummed. "Good. Now, get to rowing." 

Once everyone settled back down into their spots, (Y/N) and Leif dragged Birger to the middle of the boat beside Jarl Gorm. Despite their faults, (Y/N) was certain they'd find themselves feasting with whichever faith they chose to believe in, old or new. Leif returned to the steering oar and settled down, appearing unphased by what had occurred. (Y/N) placed his hand on his shoulder briefly before stepping up and leaning against the pow, watching the cliffs grow closer until a horn sounded off in the distance. Turning his head, he spotted ships appearing through the fog.

Jarl Olaf's ship neared them first, tilting so it could brush past their boat safely. Perplexed faces greeted them, confusion only intensifying upon seeing the two bodies. Following the ship, King Canute's sailed beside them and came to a slow stop, allowing Harald to step onto the ledge and board their ship. Harald paused, gazing down at Birger with a saddened frown. He climbed down, briefly stopping to rest his hand on the chest of his friend before approaching the brothers. (Y/N) crossed his arms as he watched Harald walk toward them, meeting his gaze briefly. Harald placed his hand on Leif's arm, features softening slightly.

With an approving nod, he looked at them. "Vikings."

#x reader #x you #x y/n #x male reader #vikings valhalla x you #vikings valhalla x male reader #vikings valhalla #vikings valhalla x y/n #vikings #harald sigurdsson x y/n #harald sigurdsson x you #harald sigurdsson x male reader #harald sigurdsson x reader #harald sigurdsson #leif eriksson #freydis eriksdotter

[bumblesimagines]

Under The Moonlight

Part 7

Request: Yes or No

~~~

Many days had passed since they had returned to Kattegat from London. Freydis settled into her new position, Leif and Liv into their blossoming relationship, and (Y/N)... Well, he settled into Harald's bed on most nights.

He hadn't intended to, truly. The third time they had found themselves giving in to their desires, (Y/N) had slipped away from Harald's slumbering body and left his lodgings, going back to the room he'd been freely given by Jarl Haakon for his part in the war efforts. The following morning, Harald had easily found him during breakfast. But he simply sat down beside him as if all was well and picked up conversation with Leif. (Y/N) had told himself he'd make a point to Harald: that they were far better off as friends. But Harald was good with words, and even better with his hands.

So when he found himself waking up in an all-too-familiar bed, he merely buried his face in the feather-stuffed pillow and wished the day away. His movements, however, caught the eye of the waking Viking beside him. Fingers danced up his spine and soft lips kissed the back of his shoulder. When (Y/N) didn't stir, Harald pressed his palm against his back and slipped his hand underneath his body, scooping the Greenlander into his arms and pulling him against his chest. His response came in the form of a disapproving groan. Harald chuckled softly, nuzzling his nose into the crook of (Y/N)'s neck. (Y/N) couldn't understand why Harald insisted on being so affectionate. How the man remained unwed was still a mystery to him.

"You must want to meet God, Harald." (Y/N) grumbled. Harald laughed against his skin.

"Did I wake you, love?" He asked and (Y/N) grew still. Harald continued to nuzzle into his neck, burying his face into his skin and tickling him with his beard. He was testing him. (Y/N) could tell. Harald would've lifted his head to look at him properly otherwise. (Y/N) shut his eyes and sighed deeply. He could tell. Gods, he'd been spending so much time around Harald that he had picked up on his habits. His face warmed considerably and he wanted to desperately bury his face in the pillow until slumber took him away.

"No," (Y/N) answered, shoving down the eruption of butterflies in his stomach. 

"Good." Harald rested his chin on his shoulder and ran his hand down (Y/N)'s arm. Slipping his fingers between (Y/N)'s, he pulled their hands to his face and kissed the back of (Y/N)'s. "I wanted to speak with you."

"What about?" (Y/N) shifted, laying on his back and gazing up at Harald curiously. Harald ran his lips over (Y/N)'s hand in concentration- or perhaps deliberation- before sighing softly. (Y/N) pressed his lips into a line, eyes flickering all over Harald's face.

"Us," Harald whispered.

"Us?" (Y/N) repeated breathlessly, brows furrowing. Harald nodded and pushed himself up with his arm, his other hand slipping under the covers to nudge (Y/N)'s legs apart. Heat bubbled in (Y/N)'s stomach but it soon faded once Harald lied down on top of him, his weight pressing him into the bed in an oddly comforting way. Resting his head down on (Y/N)'s chest, Harald allowed his eyes to flutter shut, one finger softly stroking the beginning of his scar while (Y/N)'s fingers slipped into the wavy brown locks brushing against his chin, gently scraping Harald's scalp and eliciting a soft rumble of contentment from the prince. 

"I feel strongly for you, (Y/N). More strongly than I've ever felt for anyone else." Harald revealed quietly, listening to the sound of horns blowing in the distance. (Y/N)'s gaze rose up onto the ceiling, running over the woodwork and beams keeping the structure up. He wondered if Harald could hear his heartbeat quicken. "I know our people would judge us and you deserve more than to be hidden away. But, I cannot help how I feel and... I needed to know if you felt the same."

Feelings... such bothersome things. They made his skin burn hotter than the sun and nauseated him until he could no longer think straight. His heart would threaten to burst out of his chest and his lips would pull into a smile, no matter how sour of a day he had. He hated it. He hated not having control over his own body. It reacted so wildly to a man, a Christian prince, who had a cheeky smile and kind eyes. (Y/N) hated the invisible rope that drew Harald to him over and over, hated how easily his eyes found Harald in a room, and he loathed the fluttery feeling that sunk its teeth into his stomach. Loki must've been having a field day with him, that mischievous little God. Or perhaps... Freya had bestowed him with a gift.

"I don't know how I feel." He answered honestly after a beat of silence. "I... I've never felt anything for anyone before." Greenland had a habit of isolating her islanders, keeping them contained to their lands in a constant state of survival, even more so when one lived far from the villages. (Y/N) had been raised in the wilderness, only seeing others when they traveled into the village or were visited by their neighbors. Romance in Greenland was rare, especially if one wasn't actively seeking it, and it certainly never crossed (Y/N)'s mind before. 

Harald propped himself up onto his elbows, tenderly gazing down at him. He ran his thumb over (Y/N)'s jawline and then his lips, his eyes sweeping over every detail on his face. "I want you to know I would give anything for my love. I would do anything for them. I'd even toss aside my quest for the throne. But only if my love feels the way I do." 

"All you've wanted since we met is to be King of Norway, Harald. I don't believe you'd give it up so easily."

"It won't be easy, you're right. But if it's what my love wants..." Harald trailed off and then inhaled deeply, nodding to himself and smiling down at him. "I will gladly do it. I can prove it to you." 

"Why?" (Y/N)'s hand slipped down from Harald's hair, traversing over back muscles that flexed slightly at his touch. "I'm just a Greenlander. I am not someone you toss away the crown for."

"But you are." Harald objected, lips ghosting over (Y/N)'s chin. "And if you do not wish for me to leave my destiny, then I beg of you to be with me in court. When I am King, I will follow in Jarl Haakon's footsteps. Norway will turn into an open country where any and all faiths can be worshipped. No more hatred, no more violence." 

"That's an honorable plan, Harald." (Y/N) mumbled, brushing back one of Harald's curls. 

"What do you say?" Harald asked, tilting his head to gently kiss (Y/N)'s hand. "Will you be mine?"

"Yes." Laughter soon followed as Harald leaned back onto his knees, pulling (Y/N) along with him and peppering kisses all over his neck and shoulders. And then, the kisses turned needier and hungry, and (Y/N) knew he'd be stuck in bed a little while longer.

Later, when the day began to slip into the afternoon, Freydis informed them of a disturbance at the harbor that had unsettled the townsfolk and those visiting Kattegat. (Y/N) and Harald followed Freydis and Leif through town as the morning fog began to lift, allowing them to see much clearer. But when they stepped on the beach, (Y/N) wished it hadn't left. 

A boat had neared the shore. Empty. Unless you counted the multiple spiked heads littered around the boat or the body of a woman tied to the mast, her arms outstretched to either side in the form of a cross. White and red traditional paint covered the faces of a few of the deceased, telling those on shore that they were priests and priestesses, or more specifically, worshippers of the Old Gods. But it hadn't been the heads or the body that truly made bile rise in the back of his throat. It'd been the piercing wails of a baby.

Trudging into the cold water with his brother, he stood by the boat and inhaled the smell of dried blood. He avoided looking at the faces of the deceased and instead whispered a prayer for them. Leif carefully boarded the boat and stepped toward the mast where a basket sat, gingerly picking up the swaddled baby and handing them off to his brother. (Y/N) mimicked the way he'd seen his mother hold a child once and held the baby close to his chest, lightly bouncing the baby to keep them from fussing. The cold had turned their cheeks and nose rosy pink, a startling contrast to their pale skin and the red cross painted on their forehead with blood. If starvation didn't take them first, the chill certainly would. With that in mind, (Y/N) turned and walked back onto the beach, allowing Freydis to take them into her arms and gaze upon them.

"I know this child." She grimaced and looked up at Jarl Haakon. "Kåre did this."

At her words, Jarl Haakon's breath seemed to hitch. "Uppsala..." She whispered in cold realization, her eyes moving away from the baby and onto Freydis.

"Go. Now."

                    ➸        ➸       ➸       ➸       ➸       ➸

Riding over the hill, (Y/N) tugged on the reins of his horse and saw it in the distance; gray smoke rising through the trees. Jarl Haakon's suspicions had been right. Freydis didn't think twice in clicking her tongue and applying pressure to the sides of her horse with her calves, making it run forward toward the treeline. The others followed, the smell of burnt wood filling their senses within minutes as they arrived at the remains of the temple. Scattered around the ground were debris and bodies. Some appeared to have been cut down while fleeing, others had been tied up to posts and trees, their clothes soaked in blood and their heads limp. Nobody had been spared. Not even the children, women, or elderly. But the sight that made Freydis stop was the sight of the temple itself, nearly burned to ashes but parts of it still stood, unbroken by the rage of Christians. 

"Spread out," Leif instructed, watching his sister solemnly. "Look for survivors."

Tossing one leg over the horse, (Y/N) landed firmly on the ground and walked forward, placing his hand on Freydis's thigh to break her out of her thoughts. She glanced down at him, eyes glossed over with tears, and slipped off the saddle. (Y/N) sighed heavily and followed her up the trail leading to the temple. His gaze roamed over the carnage. The bodies seemed endless. Whenever he looked away from one, he spotted another, and then another. So many lives. So many innocents who had visited the temple seeking the wisdom and love of the Gods, only to be slaughtered. Breaking away from Freydis and Liv, he caught up with Harald and Leif, grimacing at the sight of more bodies. Crows and bugs had already begun to scavenge the remains, taking their fill. 

"Have you been here before?" Leif asked Harald, gazing at one of the bodies. It appeared smaller than the others around it. A child. They continued on, searching- hoping- for survivors. 

"No." Harald shook his head, voice soft. "I'd only heard stories."

"All of these lives lost... and all they'll be to their killers are distant memories." (Y/N) whispered and looked at the temple as they neared it. The pillars that remained had turned black from the fire, smoke still rising from the structure. He could see what remained of the inside. Just more broken and burnt debris. No longer a place of prayer and worship. 

Crouching down by the corpses of a couple and their child, Leif swallowed thickly and shook his head. "Who could hate something so much?"

"They're not killing people," Harald spoke, fingers curling into fists. "They're cleansing the land. Rubbing away all signs of our pagan past, like a stain." 

(Y/N)'s jaw clenched, unable to tear his eyes away from the fallen boy. His mother's arm had been draped over him, almost as if she had attempted to shield him from the incoming attack. Beside them, the father's hand lay stretched out toward them, perhaps reaching for them in his last moments. The sound of a twig snapping turned their attention away from the gruesome sight and Harald stood in front of (Y/N), sliding his sword out of his sheath. The three cautiously approached the large tree where the sound had come from, eyeing the disturbed branches laying on the ground. Leif reached out toward it, grasping it and quickly moving it, only to hear soft gasps from the people hiding. Three young girls. Suvuiors covered in dirt and ash. They trembled and flinched, avoiding the eyes of the men in fear.

"It's alright. We won't hurt you." Leif assured softly and offered his hand, helping the girls out of the hole one by one. 

"Come, you're safe now." Harald sheathed his swords, hands hovering over their backs to avoid further discomfort for them. They took the girls back toward the temples, stepping into the rubble of the building and toward Freydis and Liv. The two women sat on a fallen beam and stared forward at the single totem pole still standing. The Allfather. 

Jumping to her feet at the sight of the girls, Freydis breathed a sigh of relief and offered them comforting smiles. "Do not be afraid." She cooed at the youngest girl, reaching a hand out to gently touch her arm. "We are friends here."

"You are Freydis?" The little girl asked timidly.

Freydis blinked, brows furrowing. "How do you know my name?"

"Their leader told us you would come. He only spared us so we could give you his message." She explained softly and the other girls nodded to confirm her words. 

"What message?" 

"He said that God has ordered him to destroy Kattegat," She paused briefly and looked up at Freydis. "And to kill you."

Freydis leaned back and stared down at the girl, inhaling sharply. Her gaze fell onto the burnt wooden boards beneath them, a million thoughts racing through her mind no doubt. (Y/N) lifted a hand to his necklace and ran his fingers over the bones, unable to stop himself from fidgeting with them. They'd just returned from one war only to be forced directly into another. Would the violence ever end? The question repeated itself in his head when Altora, the leader of the shieldmaidens of Kattegat, approached them and shook her head. The three girls were the only survivors.

"What are we waiting for? I say we ride after Kåre and make him pay!"

"From his tracks, he has at least a hundred horsemen. We must be smart." Harald objected, glancing between the siblings. Taking his words into consideration, Freydis nodded and turned back toward Altora and the others.

"Go back to Kattegat and tell Haakon what we've found. We'll take care of the dead and follow up with the survivors." Freydis told them and Altora nodded, clicking her tongue and riding away with the rest of the shieldmaidens. 

"We need to know where Kåre is. I'll track him and meet you in Kattegat." Leif piped up, meeting his brother's eyes and giving him a reassuring smile. (Y/N) couldn't find it in himself to return it when Leif was going off on a risky mission. Kåre and his people had slaughtered a whole temple and its worshippers. Only the Gods knew what would happen to Leif if he were caught.

Noticing the look on (Y/N)'s face, Liv placed a hand on his arm. "I'll go with him. We'll watch each other's backs." She said, giving his arm a squeeze before turning toward Leif and taking in a small breath. Together, the two headed off toward the last spot they'd seen tracks. (Y/N) and Freydis watched them go before turning toward each other. 

"We camp here tonight," Freydis said, reaching out to gently cup her brother's cheek. Her eyes shifted onto Harald and they turned cold. "Build fires for the dead." Dropping her hand, she moved to walk past them.

"Freydis." Harald frowned, catching Freydis's arm and gently pulling her back. "Kåre will pay for this. I promise you justice."

"I don't need your promises. I can deliver justice myself." She muttered bitterly, ripping her arm from his hold and walking towards the girls to take them elsewhere. (Y/N) sighed and stepped toward him, resting his hand over Harald's chest and gazing into his eyes. Despite playing no hand in the slaughter, he still appeared guilty. 

"She doesn't hate you, Harald. She's hurting and taking it out on you because-"

"I'm a Christian. In her eyes, we are all the same." Harald muttered, eyes closing when (Y/N) pressed his hand against his cheek. He leaned into (Y/N)'s touch, nuzzling his cheek against his palm. 

"Well, I believe you're different, Harald." (Y/N) smiled softly and Harald's eyes opened, a small smile spreading across his face. Glancing over his shoulder, Harald surveyed the area for any eyes before looking back at (Y/N) and leaning in, giving him a kiss. When he pulled back, he pressed their foreheads together and looked deep into his lover's eyes.

"It pleases me to hear you say that." He whispered.

"Good. Come now. These people deserve a proper funeral." 

It took hours to gather the bodies as only a couple were light enough for one person to carry. The rest either had to be dragged or heaved onto the wood by two people. Slowly, fires were lit and prayers for the deceased were said. The smell of burnt meat began filling the air, drawing ravens and other scavengers that began picking at the bodies that hadn't been moved yet. It'd been a tiresome yet necessary feat. Even if the people were with their Gods, their bodies on Earth still deserved to be treated with respect. Harald kept his distance from Freydis during the funeral rituals, fearing her patience with him would snap and she'd bury her sword in him for the acts of Kåre. (Y/N) didn't blame him. He knew his sister well enough to know the thought probably crossed her mind every time she looked at him. But she refrained from hurting Harald because when she looked at her brother, she saw happiness. And that was enough for her.

                    ➸        ➸       ➸       ➸       ➸       ➸

Standing amongst the others in the Great Hall, (Y/N)'s head turned toward the doors as Leif and Liv entered, the people parting to let them pass forward. Jarl Haakon turned to look at them expectantly, but from the look on her face, she hadn't been expecting good news. 

"Olaf joined forces with Kåre," Leif revealed as he stopped before them, chest heaving. Harald's head snapped in his direction at the mention of his half-brother, brows furrowing in disbelief. (Y/N) couldn't say he was surprised when Jarl Olaf had made his distaste for them clear in the very hall they were standing in.

"Olaf?" Harald repeated and Leif nodded.

"We recognize his banners, but there are many other clans I do not know. It's a large force and growing." 

"What about appealing to friendly cities for help?" Freydis proposed, frown growing when Jarl Haakon answered her with silence.

"We have." Altora glanced at Jarl Haakon. "But many have already been crushed by Kåre."

"Then we should prepare immediately, and learn what we can about their numbers and strength."

Turning to Altora and the other shieldmaidens, Jarl Haakon ordered, "Send spies and see what they can find." But her gaze didn't remain on the women for long. Instead, it drifted onto Harald and she arched a brow. "Prince Harald. I am glad you have chosen to stay and fight with us, but it has placed you against your brother." 

At her words, (Y/N) turned his head to look at Harald. Harald's features hardened and his back straightened, hand resting on the hilt of his sword. "My brother has made his choice. And I have made mine." His eyes briefly flickered to (Y/N). "I am not fighting for the throne of Norway. I am fighting for Kattegat." Harald assured her. Jarl Haakon stared at him for a moment longer, eyes squinting slightly as she searched his face for any hint of deception. When she found none, she gave a satisfied nod and turned away from him, heading deeper into the hall to speak with some of her people. 

Turning to look at them, Freydis pressed her lips together and sighed heavily. "There's much to be done." 

Preparations for the incoming invasion included many things; setting up a line of spikes in front of the tall wooden gate leading into town, arrows and bows being prepared on the wall along the gate, and food and supplies being stocked. With mountains looming on either side of Kattegat, it only left the harbor and gate as points of entry. Many of Kattegat's protectors were primarily experienced in two weapons: bows and swords. As a result, there was confidence the archers would hold back the first wave of attackers, and hopefully the second and third. (Y/N) worked alongside the others on setting up the spikes, ensuring the ropes would hold no matter how many bodies pushed and crawled over them. 

"You should take a break, (Y/N). There are many available hands to help with defenses." 

"You didn't come here to tell me that, Harald." (Y/N) murmured and rose up, giving the wooden spike a shake and humming when it proved sturdy enough. Tilting his head up to look at Harald, he spoke, "What did you wish to speak about?"

"If my brother sets eyes on you, he'll go after you. I don't want you getting hurt because of him." Harald stepped closer, glancing at the others working around them. "Olaf will surely try to kill you or your brother and sister. He's a vain, self-centered, power-seeking man. He'll do anything to get the upper hand, even if it means hurting me."

"Vain, self-centered, and power-seeking... I can see why you're brothers. You've got a lot in common." Patting Harald's chest, (Y/N) headed back into town, approaching the large logs set up to be shaped into spikes. Harald followed after him, picking up one of the axes laying beside the logs. 

"You're not taking this seriously." Harald hissed softly.

"I am, Harald. Kattegat is in danger and your brother has joined forces with the enemy, and they just so happen to share the same hatred toward my family. But I am not going to worry about what could happen." Placing the log to lean against the table, (Y/N) took the axe from Harald's hands. "If you're so worried about me, just stay by my side."

Gaze softening, Harald brushed his hand against (Y/N)'s. "I always do." 

A horn sounded off and their attention turned upward to one of the men stationed on top of the gate. "Riders approach! Our scouts are returning!" He bellowed. (Y/N) stepped forward with Harald, his grip on the axe tightening as the horses passed through the gates. Their riders were limp against them, arrows sticking out of their backs. Harald stepped in front of the horses, calling out softly to the frightened animals. They came to a slow stop in front of him, huffing and whining. (Y/N) looked over each rider, checking for signs of life but finding none in all of them.

"We must find out their strength. If they are weak, we should not be waiting in here, but attacking before their forces grow stronger." Harald voiced, staring after the horses as they were led to the stables and their riders were dragged off them.

Freydis nodded. "I'll go with you."

"We can spare neither of you." Leif gave them both hard looks and the two frowned but remained silent. "Let's get back to work."

Despite his disappointment and irritation in being denied, Harald resumed work with (Y/N), silently cutting the logs until they sharpened enough to cause damage. While his unusual silence worried (Y/N), he didn't wish to press on the issue and irritate Harald further. Their relationship was still fresh and while (Y/N) lacked experience in romance, he knew Harald would need some space and a distraction. They worked until the sun began to lower down and Jarl Haakon called a gathering for everyone to meet her in the center of town, asking someone to serve as a messenger to Odin and when someone offered, Harald's nerves only increased. So, after some convincing, (Y/N) and Harald returned to the inn and settled in for the night.

Harald, however, waited for (Y/N) to fall asleep before getting dressed again and sitting down beside the bed. He watched him peacefully sleep, occasionally sighing into his pillow and shifting around. The sight made a smile tug at his lips and his worries ceased for a second before he remembered what loomed over them, what loomed over him. There was so much to lose for him. And so much to possibly gain. With his mind made up, he stood up from the bed and fastened his sword to his hip. Slipping off his necklace and setting it on the bed near (Y/N)'s hand, he whispered an apology and kissed his temple.

Then, he left Kattegat.

#x reader #x you #x y/n #x male reader #vikings valhalla x you #vikings valhalla x male reader #vikings valhalla #vikings #vikings valhalla x y/n #vikings valhalla x reader #harald sigurdsson x y/n #harald sigurdsson x you #harald sigurdsson x male reader #harald sigurdsson x reader #harald sigurdsson #leif eriksson #freydis eriksdotter #jarl haakon

[bumblesimagines]

Under The Moonlight

Part 6

Request: Yes or No

~~~

"Where were you?"

"Exploring." (Y/N) answered, picking up the barrel and handing it off to his brother. Leif stared at him with an arched brow, taking the barrel into his arms and setting it down on their ship. Liv stood near them, gazing down into the water absentmindedly. She had made a quick recovery, only needing a couple of bandages and some rest before she could pick up a sword again. Her skin had regained its tan complexion and her eyes regained their light. Seeing her up and walking had been a tremendous relief to the brothers. With everything they needed onboard, (Y/N) carefully stepped down onto the ship, feeling it rock slightly at his added weight.

London's harbor had filled to the brim with boats as half of King Canute's fleet readied for departure back to their homelands across Scandinavia. But the Greenlanders would need to stop by Kattegat for Freydis and the others. Then, it'd hopefully be smooth sailing back home to their families.

"Exploring? The castle? All night?" With each word, Leif's brows rose higher and higher. (Y/N) looked away from his brother and out toward the horizon with pursed lips. He felt like a child again. It'd been ages since Leif last scolded him. "It isn't like you to lie to me."

"What do you want me to say, Leif?"

"The truth. If you were with..." Leif trailed off, eyes flickering over to Harald and back to his brother. The prince stood in front of King Canute as they exchanged words. Once, Harald would've appeared carefree and pleased to be in the king's presence. But now he looked miffed and bitter, the taste of betrayal still on his tongue. Harald wore his typical black leather and dark tunic attire with two-skinned coyotes stitched to his long black cloak and tied together by a small bronze chain that kept the cloak from slipping off his shoulders. He no longer looked like any other Viking waltzing up and down the dock. He looked like a prince. He was a prince. (Y/N) needed to remember that. Even when the bear tooth hung snugly around Harald's neck.

"Just tell me."

"It's not like that." (Y/N) murmured, tearing his eyes away from Harald and distracting himself by adjusting one of the ropes keeping the sail tied to the mast.

"Are you certain?" And people said his brother was a man of little words.

"Safe journey, Greenlanders!" King Canute suddenly called out to them, drawing their attention away from each other and onto him. The two brothers forced awkward smiles for him, offering nods of acknowledgment before looking at each other again. Harald's brows furrowed slightly at the sight, gaze lingering on them.

"What are you two whispering about?" Liv asked, using the side of the boat to push herself up. Leif- almost instinctively- wrapped an arm around her waist to ensure her balance, causing a flustered smile to appear on Liv's face. 

"Don't tell me you-"

"Nothing, Liv. Just the weather." Leif answered, hand rising to delicately stroke the back of her head and giving his brother a squinted-eyed look. (Y/N) grinned back at him. Liv slowly nodded at his answer and sat back down as Harald stepped onboard and bid his goodbye to Canute. Leif took his spot behind the steering oar and (Y/N) sat beside him, watching Vikings finish getting their belongings packed away. Harald made his way down the ship, fingers twitching and brushing against (Y/N)'s arm when he brushed past and he sat behind him. (Y/N) took in a deep breath and looked out at the ocean again.

                    ➸        ➸       ➸       ➸       ➸       ➸

The closer Kattegat's harbor grew, the faster his heart pounded against his chest. His fingers drummed anxiously against the side of the ship, watching people swarm to the docks to greet their family and friends. He waited impatiently as the boat docked, staring down the dock until the boat had been secured. Climbing out, he paused and waited, hearing Liv's soft sigh of exhaustion as Leif helped her off the boat. Then, He heard it. He heard her.

"Leif! (Y/N)!" Freydis raced through the crowd, her long blonde braid whipping back with the wind as she brushed past people. Her pace quickened upon spotting her brothers and she barreled into the arms of (Y/N), feet leaving the ground when he wrapped his arms around her tightly and spun her around. Laughter escaped her freely. "You're alive!"

"And you are too." (Y/N) laughed as well, feeling his heart swell tenfolds. Gently setting Freydis back down on her feet, she smiled and kissed his cheek before eagerly wrapping her arms around Leif and Liv, thrilled giggles falling from her lips.

"What is this?" Liv asked when they pulled apart, looking over Freydis' attire. It was then he noticed what exactly she wore. Freydis had ditched her typical dark tunics and coats for brown leather, a light blue tunic underneath, and shoulder plates. Her black boots were covered in a mixture of damp sand and when he looked closer, so were the back of her pants, almost as if she had fallen while on the beach. (Y/N) blinked. Her clothes looked strikingly similar to what the defenders of Kattegat wore, he realized. Had Jarl Haakon offered Freydis a place amongst her shieldmaidens?

"I have much to tell you." Freydis breathed and leaned back, turning her head side to side in search of the others. When she couldn't find them along the Vikings unloading and heading down the dock, she looked back at them, her wide smile beginning to crumble. "Skarde? Njal?"

"And Ulf," Liv whispered, inhaling sharply and turning her gaze downcast. 

"Then..." Freydis pressed her trembling lips together, her blue eyes overflowing with tears. "Toke and Yrsa are not alone in Valhalla." She revealed softly, voice nearly cracking.

(Y/N) felt as if someone had punched him right in the chest, knocking all the air out of his lungs and squeezing his heart. His friends... The ones who had stepped up and promised to help them on their journey for justice... dead. Every single one of them. Liv stared at her wide-eyed, eyes flickering between Freydis's in hopes of finding a cruel joke. Her lip began quivering and she shook her head, sobs escaping her and shoulders shaking. (Y/N) squeezed his eyes shut. He'd grown so tired of crying, so tired of mourning that the tears had dried after the deaths of Njal and Skarde. He only stepped forward and wrapped an arm around his sister, dropping his head onto her shoulder as Leif and Liv stepped in as well, arms wrapping around each other and Freydis. The group of Greenlanders had watered down to just four. Four survivors. Four people who'd have to relay the news to different families back home. They'd have to hold sobbing mothers and spouses and explain to the children why their fathers wouldn't be returning.

"It's just us now." Liv sniffled, leaning back and gazing up at Freydis, hand gently rubbing her back. 

"Come," Freydis sighed, wiping her tears away and slipping her arm around Liv's shoulders. She looked up at her brothers and smiled sadly at them, nodding back toward the town. "You must be tired from your journey."

"I want to go home, Leif." (Y/N) mumbled, watching the girls head down the dock. 

"I know, (Y/N). I know." Leif tried offering him a reassuring smile through his exhaustion. "But we must rest." He reminded, motioning after the girls and beginning to follow them. (Y/N) sighed and trailed after his brother, eyes drifting away from Leif's back and meeting Harald's pitying ones. (Y/N) broke eye contact first and quickened his pace, even as Harald stared holes into the back of his head. 

Freydis took them to the market, the smell of freshly baked bread and cooking meat wafting through the air. (Y/N)'s mouth watered at the thought of a warm meal, collapsing at an empty table and smiling sweetly at his sister when she swiftly retrieved bowls of food for them to eat. Setting them down in front of her friends and getting some water for them, Freydis plopped down across from them and began recounting how she had spent the last couple of months. "Jarl Haakon sent us to Uppsala."

"To Uppsala?" Liv gasped in awe, breaking apart a fresh piece of bread and popping the smaller slice into her mouth. "Is it like the stories we heard growing up?"

Smiling widely, Freydis rested her arms on the table, her gaze turning distant. "It's even better... Temples as high as the sky with golden rooftops, and hundreds of the faithful." Her smile fell slightly. "But it is threatened by Christians."

"So this is your new mission?" Leif asked softly, rolling his wooden spoon between his fingers. (Y/N) drank the broth of his soup, having finished eating so fast his mother would've wacked him with a rag and scolded him. Wiping his chin with the back of his hand, his brows furrowed as Freydis nodded, her fingers toying with the ends of her shirt.

"What I have seen has changed me. I cannot leave Kattegat now, and I hope you will stay too?" Freydis glanced between the three of them hopefully. (Y/N) felt his stomach drop, fingers squeezing around the bowl in his hands. Leif swallowed and turned to look at his younger brother, placing his hand on his shoulder and affectionately rubbing it. 

"Perhaps we could stay a little longer. Make sure Freydis settles in well and then we can depart for Greenland?" Leif proposed, gaze softening. Between his siblings pleading looks, (Y/N) could only begrudgingly nod, putting aside his longing for home. "Besides..." Leif's eyes flickered to someone past him. "I don't think Harald would let you leave so quickly." 

"Harald?" Freydis repeated with furrowed brows and (Y/N) peered over his shoulder at the prince. Harald had ditched his cloak and changed into lighter clothes better suited to Kattegat's chilly yet ever-changing weather. Inhaling deeply, (Y/N) let the bowl drop lightly on the table and stood up, hearing his sister whisper questions to a chuckling Leif. 

"I see your sister is a warrior now," Harald noted, a smile spreading on his face. "I will congratulate her later. For now, I wish to know why you've been ignoring me."

"Yrsa and Toke were killed, Harald. By a Christian Jarl named Kåre. Friend of yours?"

"No, he's not." Harald's smile turned into a frown. "He's a zealot and many of us consider him deranged."

"But you know him."

"I know of him. (Y/N), please, I do not wish to argue with you today." Harald sighed and shut his eyes, nose crinkling slightly. "Why don't we take a walk-"

"Harald, I want you to forget about what happened. I do not want you trailing after me like a child at every turn. You're the Prince of Norway, I am a hunter from Greenland. I am... far below your station. Find someone else to bother and keep your bed warm, but I do not need to risk my safety for a man, much less a Christian." (Y/N)'s words came out much nastier than intended. It became apparent by the way Harald nearly flinched at his words, a hurt look passing over his features. (Y/N) turned his back to him and returned to the table, avoiding the questioning gazes as he took some bread. Harald stared at him, and then he scoffed and turned away, stalking back into the depths of the town.

When night fell, Jarl Haakon opened the Great Hall doors to the fleet of Vikings for a feast congratulating them on their victory and safe return. (Y/N) had found himself sitting beside a pretty redhead, although he couldn't recall if her name was Ingrid or Isgerd. She wore a long flowy green dress with white designs stitched on the cuffs and collarbone. Her wavy hair had been tied back by multiple braids with a couple of strands falling over her face that she occasionally brushed away when speaking. Talking with her was easy, for the most part. His attention would automatically drift away from her when he would feel someone staring at him, even if he knew it was Harald watching him from across the room. Liv and Leif sat together at the table beside (Y/N)'s, warily glancing at each other and whispering about the two. Leif had kept the day's attire on but Liv had changed into a long red dress and finally released her hair from its typical updo. Sitting a ways away from her brothers, Freydis chatted animatedly with a handsome young man, appearing rather interested in him as she laughed and leaned toward him curiously.

Drums began to be hit and (Y/N) turned his eyes away from Harald and onto the woman walking down between the tables, the small chimes on her red outfit clinging together with each step she took. Lifting her hands, she hollered. "Hail Prince Harald and Leif Eriksson, the heroes of London! West over water they fared to tear the English crown from the head of Æthelred!" Cheers filled the hall as Vikings lifted their cups in the air. "Or was it the head from the crown? By the man who brought London Bridge down! And this Prince of Greenland, across oceans he went, to face hundreds of men in the village of Kent!"

"Hundreds? More like thousands!" Leif called confidentially from his seat, laughing as the hall erupted in laughter and cheers.

Harald lifted his up high in the air, his bitterness and hurt gone for the moment. "Get your story right, Skalde!" He piped in playfully, a laugh rumbling in his chest.

"I think you better get up and tell it then," Skalde responded with a large smile, encouraging the hall to chant for Harald to rise. Even Leif chimed in, chanting Harald's name and slamming his fists against the table. (Y/N) felt a smile tug at his lips, fingers gently dragging along his cup as Harald gave in and stood up, stepping onto his seat and then onto the table. 

"The story I want to tell is not of me." He shouted over the chants, waiting for the hall to quiet down before continuing. "It is of a group of friends: The Greenlanders. Leif Eriksson, my friend. My brother. Captain through the storms of wind and mutiny. He settled rough waters and made the passage calm." 

"Brother." Leif raised his cup to Harald in thanks.

"And Liv-" Harald continued, grinning when Liv's head snapped in his direction with wide eyes. "-who left her blood in the river along with the bridge! This is her story." Harald stepped down from the table, gazing over the hall. Liv bowed her head bashfully at the cheers that followed, a flustered smile spreading across her face. 

"And (Y/N) Eriksson. A man who would carry the weight of the world on his shoulders if it meant helping his brother and sister. I admire his strength and kindness... and I certainly wish to never face him on the battlefield." Harald kept his voice even, listening to laughter and cheers that spread at his words. (Y/N) rubbed his thumb over the rim of his cup and met Harald's fond gaze. He didn't wish to admit the way his heart seemingly picked up when he looked into his eyes. Harald's lips spread into a small smile. 

"This is his story too. As it is Ulf's, Skarde's, and Njal's. Greenlanders who came to pay a debt for one, but stayed to help save us all. They met Syn in Odin's Great Hall, and she welcomed them into Valhalla. They are the true heroes of London. They are who we celebrate tonight! For without the Greenlanders, London Bridge would still be standing, but we would not." Harald lifted his cup once more. "The Greenlanders!"

Rising from his seat and picking up his cup, Leif raised his cup as well. "Skol!" At his words, the drums picked up and people stood to mingle and chat, sharing laughter and exchanging tales. (Y/N) excused himself from the redhead's side and made his way through the hall, feeling Harald's eyes on him as he approached the fireplace. Predictably, Harald appeared at his side in seconds.

"Thank you for what you said, Harald. You didn't have to." (Y/N) muttered and looked at the prince. Harald hummed, lifting his hands and warming them with the heat of the fire. The fire cast a golden glow on him, making his dark eyes appear a shade or two lighter. 

"Your friends deserved to have their names known. They were heroes too." Harald said, lifting his gaze to look at him, his brows gently raising and gaze softening. "And I am deeply sorry for everything and everyone you've lost." 

(Y/N) regarded the prince with a sorrowful smile. While his heart remained heavy, he knew his friends were where they were meant to be. The Gods had willed it and (Y/N) could only be thankful for the time they had spent together, even if a few of those times had been filled with arguments and petty insults. But they had remained loyal to him and his siblings through thick and thin. Sighing softly, (Y/N) tilted his head and parted his lips to speak, only for the sound of steel hitting a shield to break his thought process and draw his attention toward the center of the hall. Stepping away from Harald, he spotted one of Jarl Haakon's shieldmaidens standing protectively in front of Leif with her sword pointed directly at Arne. 

"He's no hero!" Arne seethed with bottled-up fury and hate, staring directly at Leif. "He's a Christian lover and probably a Christian himself!" Arne spat, moving wildly against the two men restraining him. Leif made no move to defend himself. Instead, he stood behind the shieldmaiden silently... Guilty. (Y/N) frowned.

"Leave before I banish you." The shieldmaiden ordered, keeping her sword trained on the blonde man, even as the other men escorted him out of the hall. (Y/N) watched them shove Arne out of the hall, their bodies blocking him from entering. After cursing them a few more times, Arne disappeared into the night.

"Come to my lodgings, (Y/N). I'll have a hot bath prepared for you." Harald whispered into his ear, the touch of his hand fleeting against (Y/N) back before he disappeared into the crowd. (Y/N) stared after him, the buzz of the feast picking back up despite the brief interruption. The music grew louder, more encouraging for people to dance and mingle. But the festivities had been enough for the Greenlander. And with some hesitance, he found himself following in Harald's direction.

Even after his unnecessarily cold words, Harald had invited him back to his room. And (Y/N) foolishly accepted. (Y/N) winced at his own inconsistency. It wasn't like him to be so... impulsive. So reckless. Harald would surely think of him as easy. (Y/N) slowed down in front of the inn, staring at the open door. The cold outside nipped at his cheeks and ears but he barely felt it. Nothing could beat Greenland's winter. Grinding his teeth and cursing himself, he stepped inside and questioned the innkeeper who provided little directions to Harald's room. 

Why was he doing this?

Why was he standing there before his door?

Why did he knock instead of leaving?

Questions that repeated over and over in his head as the heavy footsteps grew near and the door opened, warmth flooding out from the room and coaxing him inside. (Y/N) didn't look at Harald when he walked in, instead, he eyed at the tub toward the back of the room with steam rising out of it. The door creaked when it closed behind him, sending a small jolt up his body at the sound. (Y/N) knew he could easily change his mind and Harald would let him leave. But he stayed.

"You have your own tub?" (Y/N) asked, feeling his skin burn. From shame? Embarrassment? Want? He couldn't tell. Those feelings had slowly grown muddled. Growing closer to the wooden tub, his fingers danced along the rim of the tub, the warm water rather enticing after a short trek through the chilly night.

"Jarl Haakon treats her friends well," Harald said, his voice suddenly closer. His arms moved around his waist, hand pulling and tugging on strings. When his clothes grew loose, (Y/N) gently pushed Harald's hands away and slipped the rest of the clothes off, stepping into the tub and lowering down into the water. He shivered and pulled his legs toward his chest, a soft chuckle escaping him as the heat hugged his tired muscles. Harald picked up his clothes, setting them on a chair, and gingerly taking the dagger to place it on top of the clothes. 

(Y/N) pulled his hand toward his chest, palm pressing against his scar. It ran from his left shoulder down to his right hip. His attacker hadn't dragged the tip of his sword down his body to cut him open, only to torture him with the pain. The scar had faded considerably over the years but the memories remained clear and vivid. His head lifted when he heard a chair scraping along the ground. Harald set the stool down and sat on it, leaning his arms on the rim of the tub with a rag in hand. 

"Tell me about Greenland," Harald said softly, dipping the rag into the water and gently rubbing it against (Y/N)'s cheek. "What's it like living there?"

"It's cold and dry. We get a lot of snow.. so much sometimes you can barely tell it's summer or spring. But I like the snow. I like the cold. But snow and cold mean the animals that live among us are sparse and hard to capture. It's... challenging." (Y/N) sighed, skimming his hand over the surface of the water. "To survive, you have to be less of a man, less of a human. You have to become a predator. Even if it's just to catch a cunning little hare or take down an ox. And to make things harder, your neighbors aren't your only competition. You've got polar bears roamin' about and once they catch a whiff of you... They'll follow you for hours on end and because they blend in, you'll never see them coming. It's... terrifying, how such a large creature can sneak up on you. But, Gods, they're beautiful."

"Beautiful yet terrifying... Reminds me of someone." Harald cooed, dragging the rag down along (Y/N)'s jawline. Droplets ran down his neck, mixing with sweat and grime from the weeks at sea. Hooking his finger under (Y/N)'s chin, he tilted the Greenlander's head toward him and gently scrubbed the other side of his face. (Y/N)'s lips curled up. 

"Is this always how you get your peen wet?" A laugh slipped past his lips when Harald's brows raised at his crudeness, his movements temporarily pausing. "You offer hot baths to anyone you find pretty?"

"They typically like me for my charm-"

"Charm?"

"Yes, my charm." Harald drawled and dropped his hand, the water rippling from the contact. "If it wasn't for my charm, why did you lay with me?"

"You were available. And desperate." (Y/N) shrugged lightly and slipped the rag from Harald's fingers, squeezing the water out of it and rubbing it against his shoulders. 

"You make me feel like that," Harald sighed, fingers brushing against the top of (Y/N)'s knee. "You make me feel many things."

Shifting in the water, (Y/N) moved toward the prince and propped his arms on either side of Harald's. His heart danced around in his chest, threatening to burst out at any given moment but he shoved down the jittery feeling in his veins instead, he bumped his nose against Harald's and gazed into his darkening eyes. (Y/N) leaned back and found Harald leaning after him, chasing his lips in hopes of stealing a kiss. "Careful, prince. You may fall in." 

"You are no bear.." Harald breathed, a smirk appearing on his face. "You are a fox."

                    ➸        ➸       ➸       ➸       ➸       ➸

The shieldmaidens entered the makeshift arena in a single line for Freydis's test. She was last among them, having exchanged the blue tunic for their signature yellow. Leif, Liv, (Y/N), and Harald watched from the sidelines as the shieldmaidens turned to face Jarl Haakon and dropped to one knee, simultaneously speaking in Norse. Rising up again, the women spread out and Freydis handed her sword over. She needed to prove her strength against the group. She had to mark her place among them by defeating them in combat. Silence fell over them as Freydis stepped back into the center, scanning each face and bracing herself for the first attack.

The first woman charged, taking advantage of Freydis's back being turned to her. Expecting the attack, Freydis turned just in time to dodge the swing. The woman stumbled and Freydis took advantage of her momentary daze to kick her forward onto the ground before landing a solid punch to her jaw, thus marking the woman out of the fight. Jarl Haakon smiled proudly at her first win.

Two shieldmaidens charged neck, one swinging her sword and the other shoving forward her spear. Freydis dodged the swing of the sword and angled her body to avoid the spear. Thinking fast on her feet, she grabbed the spear and aimed the end of it toward the woman with the sword before slamming her body against the second woman and loosening her grip on the spear. Taking the spear from her, Freydis swung at both women, using quickness and good aim to knock both women down without seriously injuring them. 

Twirling the spear in her hand, she aimed at the next woman who charged and flung it forward but the woman raised her shield in time to block it. Scrambling to pick up the discarded sword and shield on the ground, Freydis faced her again, only for another woman to come up at her side and use her own shield to force Freydis onto the ground. She blocked the woman's hits while on her back before swinging her leg at the back of her ankles, effectively causing her opponent to fall onto her knees. She rolled out of the way to avoid Freydis's sword and the two women used the distance to get back on their feet. They charged at each other, grunting and huffing as metal hit metal until Freydis got her sword to the woman's neck, forcing her to surrender.

But she didn't have time to breathe before being charged at again. Her new opponent, the woman that had saved Leif from Arne's attack the previous night, didn't spare her, swinging her sword and blocking with her shield. They broke apart for a moment, their chests heaving with pants and then they charged again, swinging and blocking until the woman brought her shield to Freydis's knee, causing her to cry out and lean over instinctively. Using the distraction, the woman swung her shield at Freydis's and pushed her down on the ground. She allowed Freydis the time to get back on her feet but didn't hold back, swinging at her again and again. Freydis got a solid hit against the woman's side but she didn't even bat an eye, slamming her shield against Freydis's and causing it to bounce back and hit her face. Freydis cried out as she fell back, rolling over onto her stomach and cupping her face in pain.

"Get up!" Jarl Haakon shouted, encouraging chants erupting in the crowd. Freydis staggered to her feet and tossed her shield and sword aside. When she turned around, (Y/N) grimaced at the sight. Blood oozed from her temple, dripping down the side of her face, and her bloodied lips parted to suck in gulps of air. Freydis went as far enough to unclasp the armor and toss it aside. She continued to stumble around and her opponent frowned, turning to look at Jarl Haakon with an arched brow. When Jarl Haakon remained silent, the woman sighed deeply and looked back at Freydis. Fingers brushed against (Y/N) and he felt someone hook their finger around his. Glancing down, he noticed Harald's hand and looked up at him. Harald gave him a reassuring smile.

With the fight still on, the woman charged and swung but Freydis ducked. Dodging another swing, she lifted her foot and slammed it against the shield, pushing her back. The woman charged again and Freydis allowed the sword to brush against her arm in order to get closer to her and push the shield aside, shoving the woman back again. Despite stumbling on her feet, she dodged another swing and spun around, grasping the woman's arm and stomping on her leg, forcing her down on one knee and holding her wrist. The woman dropped her sword only to catch it with her free hand. Freydis quickly backed away, ducking from two swings before charging forward and slamming her body against the woman's and taking the sword from her weakened grasp. Cutting her side and watching her fall back on her knees, Freydis held the blade to her throat before she could get up. 

Once Jarl Haakon nodded her approval, Freydis lowered her sword and offered the woman her hand, helping her up on her feet. The two grinned at each other as the crowd cheered and shieldmaidens approached Freydis to congratulate her. Freydis panted, soaking in the cheers and her victory before lowering down to one knee when Jarl Haakon walked toward her with a proud smile. 

"Freydis Eriksdottir. What promise do you make?"

"I promise on Odin to protect Kattegat to the death." Freydis breathed.

The woman beside Jarl Haakon took Freydis's sword out of its sheath and held it before her as Jarl Haakon took a handful of dirt and then wiped her other hand on Freydis's blood. Smearing the blood and sprinkling the dirt on the sword, she spoke. "The body and Earth are one." Taking the sword into her hands, she held it and stared down at her. "As you protect me, so I you. Rise." She said and Freydis took, taking her sword back and taking the shield offered to her.

Turning to look at the crowd, Freydis grinned. "Yeah!" She screamed into the day, causing the crowd to erupt into cheers and hollers. Liv excitedly jumped up and down, cheering for Freydis and laughing. (Y/N) watched the pure euphoria on Freydis's face as she continued to scream and thrust her sword upward. She belonged in Kattegat as a warrior, he knew that now. And when Harald wrapped his fingers around his wrist, he wondered if he belonged somewhere, at someone's side. 

#x reader #x you #x y/n #x male reader #vikings valhalla x you #vikings valhalla x male reader #vikings valhalla #vikings #vikings valhalla x reader #vikings valhalla x y/n #harald sigurdsson x reader #harald sigurdsson #harald sigurdsson x y/n #harald sigurdsson x you #harald sigurdsson x male reader #leif Eriksson #freydis eriksdotter

[bumblesimagines]

Under The Moonlight

Part 4

Request: Yes or No

~~~

The blue of the sky clashed with orange and pink as the sun began to set. The vibrant gold rays provided a fleeting warmth before the cool of the night could take over. (Y/N) watched the sun slowly disappear beyond the horizon, as he typically did back in Greenland. His mother would sit beside him, weaving baskets and telling him stories of his ancestors and the Gods. Her (E/C) eyes would look different in the light and her skin would look warmer. He wondered, as the sun escaped his vision, if she had been watching it too. If she longed for the return of her son unaware he'd been sent to war. 

His mother had always been his guiding light. His protector. His teacher. A woman who had gone through much and remained triumphant. A woman who would do anything for her family. It'd been her sword that had cut down the Christian who attacked their home. Her hands that tended to (Y/N)'s wounds. Her feet that walked the miles to Erik Thorvaldsson's home. Her arms that carried her son there. (Y/N) owed it all to her. And there was nothing he wanted more than to lean on her shoulder and hear her voice once more. To see her once again before her illness could claim her.

Leaves and twigs crunched and broke behind him. He continued staring forward, even as a hulky figure settled down on the grass beside him. Harald peered up at the darkening sky and spotted the stars beginning to appear one by one. Propping his knee up, he rested a sore arm on top and looked at the man beside him. He looked peaceful. Harald smiled at that. And when (Y/N) turned to look at him, his smile widened. (Y/N) stilled and averted his eyes, thumb running back and forth over the back of his hand. When he lifted his eyes again, his lips twitched upward into a small, subtle smile. Harald's heart swelled. (Y/N) was finally starting to warm up to him.

"What is King Canute going to do?" (Y/N) asked. Leif had gone to the warlords with his plan and after deliberation, King Canute dismissed him in favor of searching for something more favorable.

"I have reason to believe he'll go with Leif's plan. It's risky and will cost us if it fails. The other Jarls, however... They haven't come up with anything of value."

"The other Jarls are fools."

"Maybe," Harald chuckled, resting his other hand against the grass. "But they know more about England than you and I."

"What else is there to know? A boy sits on their throne and the enemy awaits right outside his gates." (Y/N) said, eyes shifting onto the castle in the distance, barely visible from their spot on the hill. Built from stone and barely reaching the sky. It looked more like a prison than a home. "Storming the castle will be like taking a toy from a child."

"I'll be taking more than his castle. I was promised his head and I will have it," Harald muttered, his fingers curling into fists. He looked- or rather glared- at the horizon. The bursts of orange and pink had slowly begun to give way to the dark blue of the night. "My brother, Sten, was part of the Kingsguard. King Æthelred slaughtered him, his own protector." 

(Y/N) considered his words. He knew loss well. He knew what it felt like to lose a home, to lose a friend. But he'd yet to feel the grief and pain of losing a sibling. Leif, Torstein, and Thorvald were all healthy young men. And he was sure it'd take many years for death to even get a hold of Freydis. "You believe taking the boy's head... will be justice enough for you?"

"Why wouldn't it be?"

"What if this boy can undo his father's wrongs? Sons aren't their fathers. Leif is a good example of that."

"And you? Are you like your father?" Harald asked softly, hesitating before he reached out to place his hand over (Y/N)'s, fingers gently running over his skin. (Y/N) looked down at their hands, slowly turning over his and feeling Harald slip his fingers between his. 

"Yes, I am." (Y/N) muttered softly. "Leif turns away from the violence. He's never wanted to be like our father. He's never wanted the darkness that brews in Erik. I guess I'll eventually face the consequences of that darkness."

"You are a good person, (Y/N). Someone bred from this... 'darkness' wouldn't weep over their fallen friends. They wouldn't have returned to the marshes for Leif. They wouldn't have given themselves up to protect Freydis." Harald told him gently, giving his hands a squeeze. (Y/N) raised his head to look at him. Harald gazed into his eyes with a sweet smile, slowly inching closer and closer.

"It's growing late." (Y/N) abruptly said, untangling his hands from Harald and pushing himself up from the ground. Bidding Harald a good night, he began heading back to camp where many Vikings had already settled into their tents for bed. Only a select few remained awake, speaking with others or roaming around the camp. (Y/N) approached the spot the Greenlanders had secured for themselves, finding them sound asleep. He smiled to himself and settled down beside his brother, resting his head on the makeshift pillow. Leif rolled over to face him and cracked open his eyes, offering him a tired smile and lifting his arm so (Y/N) could sleep underneath the blanket. Shuffling closer to his brother, (Y/N) let his eyes flutter closed once the blanket draped over him.

                    ➸        ➸       ➸       ➸       ➸       ➸

The following morning, King Canute had chosen to execute Leif's plan. But they first needed to prepare for it. So (Y/N) found himself helping the others build what Leif called ships. Long and smooth wooden boards that they'd lie on and use to move through the water undetected. The idea of those so-called ships had earned hearty laughs from Arne Gormsson and his friends. But Leif had ignored them, confident in his plan. Building had taken them all day but it was of no worries to them. They needed the cover of night to set the plan in motion.

Standing amongst his friends, (Y/N) inhaled and exhaled deeply, pushing arrows into the quiver and silently praying to the Gods for victory. If Leif's plans failed, they'd all die and the massacre would go unavenged. His sister would be left with two less brothers and his mother would lose her only child. The families of their friends would be left without their children, lovers, and parents. If they won... they'd have the honor of saying they helped King Canute take London. And they could go home to their families and have a warm meal.

"We've come a long way, my friends," Leif said, setting his hand on (Y/N)'s shoulder and giving it an affectionate squeeze, gazing over his group of friends. "And I am fortunate. And grateful." 

"We are blessed by the Gods, who alone know our destinies," Skarde smiled, placing a hand against Leif's cheek and looking over his friends. Shakily inhaling, he nodded to himself. "If this is where we say goodbye on Earth, then it is only a quick farewell as we will hail each other soon in Valhalla." 

"Valhalla." Njal smiled and Liv slung her shoulder over Leif's shoulder, gazing at him fondly as she repeated the word as well. (Y/N) chuckled and stepped forward, slipping an arm around Njal's waist and leaning his head against the man's chest.

"Valhalla.." He repeated softly, feeling Njal rub his arm. The group stared at each other for a moment longer before smiling widely and leaning in for a group hug, giggles and laughter escaping them. They squeezed each other tightly and allowed their hug to linger as Skarde pressed fleeting kisses to their foreheads. (Y/N) leaned back and inhaled deeply, whispering one last quick prayer to the Gods above before they walked to the water.

Taking his wooden board from Harald and setting it in the water, (Y/N) waited for the others to get on their boards before they moved forward, laying on their stomachs and using their hands to push them forward through the waters as night fell over them. They reached the first dock with guards stationed at it. Harald reached for his crossbow and slipped onto his back, loading it and aiming as he went beneath the dock first. A guard stood up upon noticing him, squinting through the darkness. But before he could speak, Harald shot him and he fell to the ground with a mere grunt and thud. Njal and Skarde did similarly with the other two guards, leaving the dock without anyone to protect it.

Liv and (Y/N) left their boards to retrieve supplies while the others located the two rowboats at the dock. Tossing the ropes and wire down to them, they continued until they had the necessary amount of supplies before rowing quietly down the river. It didn't take long for (Y/N) to spot the bridge in the distance, made visible by torches. He reached up to his necklaces and ran his finger over the bones, keeping his breathing steady. 

"Tarps," Leif whispered back to them and they leaned down, using the tarps they'd taken from the dock to cover themselves, leaving only one person to row. They waited beneath the tarps, listening to the sound of water and insect trills. After a few minutes, he felt a tap on his leg and the boat slowed down. He lifted the tarp off his body and glanced up at the underside of the bridge.

Quickly climbing onto the small wooden platform keeping the support beams above water, he extended a hand to the others to help them climb on. Taking the supplies from the boat, they worked quickly and quietly. Once finished, the boats continued on with only two people onboard. They remained still, glancing at each other. But when no horns echoed through the air, they knew they were in the clear. For now. 

Climbing onto a wooden beam, the land around them began to appear more visible as the sun began rising. And soon, he heard a horn go off and bells began ringing. Lifting his head, he spotted numerous boats sailing over the horizon, just as Leif had instructed, with three ships sailing faster than the others. (Y/N) looked back at his brother and met his eyes, giving him a small nod before he reached down to take the axe from Liv. They began getting into position and waited, listening to the orders being shouted by the Saxons as they scrambled to prepare for an attack. Soon, an order was called and the chains beneath the bridge moved, lifting spikes from the water. But they remained still. Even as the sound of swords and axes slamming against shields began and King Canute stepped onto the bridge on horseback. When more Vikings were on the bridge, they began, axing away at the wooden beams to weaken the bridge. 

Once satisfied with the amount of wood that had been chipped away, (Y/N) hoisted the axe to his hip and looked up at the sound of hooves passing over. Sharing a look with Skarde, (Y/N) caught the rope he tossed to him and began fastening it around the wood. King Canute would keep the Saxons occupied long enough for them to get their task done and then he'd draw out King Edmund to trap him on one side of the bridge. 

"The tide is turning," Skarde called softly and (Y/N) turned his head to watch the rushing water turn in the opposite direction. With the tides turned, he heard the sound of shouting and soon, the sound of steel meeting steel. Hopping down from the beam, (Y/N) ensured the rope would hold one last time before he retrieved an arrow and tied a wire to the end of his arrow, and then tied the other end of the thread to the rope. Once the three boats were close enough, he lifted his bow and aimed for one of the shields on the third bow before releasing it, watching it soar through the sky and hit the shield. Arrows began falling down over the boats but the ropes had already been fastened.

The boats began rowing away, using the tide and the ropes to pull on the bridge, causing the wood to creak and break. The arrows stopped suddenly and (Y/N) held his breath, releasing it with a yelp when the arrows descended down on them. Archers on the bridge pointed their bows down at them, releasing arrow after arrow and effectively shooting down Tomas. (Y/N)'s gaze shot up to Njal, eyes widening when the blonde man staggered backward, coughing up blood before he fell into the waters. Liv screamed beside him, tears quickly flooding her eyes. (Y/N) wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her under the bridge, being mindful of the chunks of wood falling down. But they couldn't stay there for long. The bridge continued creaking and groaning, bits of wood falling down as it began leaning over. But not fast enough. 

Leif climbed back on and began axing away at the beam he'd tied the rope around, aiming to quicken the process. (Y/N) quickly moved over to help him, hearing another grunt and looking over his shoulder in time to see Skarde fall into the murky waters. With an enraged cry, Liv ran out from under the bridge and lifted her bow toward the archers, successfully hitting one of them but at the cost of being shot in the shoulder. Wailing in pain, she stumbled back and fell into the depths. 

The scream caught in (Y/N)'s throat, breathing becoming labored. The sound around him turned distant and his vision blurred from tears. The axe fell from his trembling hands, falling onto the ground with a muffled clang. Fingers wrapped around his arms, Leif's distant shouting reaching his ears as he was pulled from the beams and toward the water. 

"We have to jump!" Leif yelled over the sound of the bridge falling apart and the cries of battle. The sound returned to (Y/N) and he grounded himself, staring at the rushing water before diving in with Leif as the bridge finally collapsed. He heard the water rushing around him, pieces of wood hitting his body. A shot of panic rushed through him, kicking his legs wildly and breaking through the surface. Hands suddenly grabbed his arms, heaving him up and onto a boat. (Y/N) coughed, feeling someone gently rub his back as he hacked up the water he had accidentally inhaled.

"We did it, (Y/N)!" Turning his head, (Y/N) met Harald's eyes but his gaze shifted onto the bridge in the distance. Broken right in the middle. Just as Leif had planned. 

"We did it..." He breathed, a small smile spreading across his lips. His friends' sacrifices hadn't been in vain. 

Many of the Vikings continued further into the castle to steal and ravage, Harald among them. But (Y/N) chose to reunite with his brother, checking him for injuries and thanking the Gods when he found none. Together, they began searching the banks of the river, looking for their friends. And soon, they heard the familiar sound of Liv's voice. Immediately quickening his pace, (Y/N) spotted her. She was drenched and staggering, completely out of breath. (Y/N) soon saw why.

"Njal... Skarde..." (Y/N) whispered, falling down onto the muddy ground and feeling the tears overwhelm his eyes. There his friends lied, drenched and dead. The waters had wiped away the dirt and grime off their faces but the sickly pale color of death had already begun settling in. They'd left Kattegat with six and they'd have to return with only three. (Y/N) gently brushed the hair out of Njal's face and looked over his face. They looked peaceful, almost as if they were merely sleeping. 

"I got them out of the river... but I could take them no further," Liv explained, sniffling and staggering before collapsing in Leif's arms, pained whimpers and sobs escaping her.

"No, no, no, Liv." Leif quickly tucked his arm under her knees and lifted her up. "She's hurt, (Y/N)!"

"The shoulder, Leif, she was shot there." (Y/N) sniffled, wiping away the tears with the back of his hand and getting up on his feet. Standing beside the two, he gently pulled back on Liv's coat and winced at the blood. "Come on, we need to get her to the healers." 

                    ➸        ➸       ➸       ➸       ➸       ➸

"She has been shot with a double-barbed arrow. You cannot pull it out of her without killing her immediately." The healer explained, wiping his hands clean of blood. Liv lied on one of the cots, covered in sweat and shuddering violently. She'd snapped the arrow after being shot, leaving part of it sticking out of her shoulder. Leif gently dabbed her forehead with a wet cloth as (Y/N) softly stroked her brown hair, watching her wince every so often. "If it stays, the flesh will rot and she will die slow." 

"What if I push it through?" Leif asked softly, peering up at the healer.

"She's too weak to survive it." The healer shook his head, giving them a pitying look and standing to check on the other injured. Liv swallowed and opened her eyes, staring up at them as her lips quivered.

"Do it." She croaked. "The arrow."

"You're not strong enough. It'll kill you." 

"Let me decide that." Liv pleaded softly.

Leif frowned, cupping the side of her face. "I can't lose you, Liv." He whispered, stroking her cheek with his thumb. (Y/N) watched them, noting the pain in Leif's voice as he spoke. 

"You won't," Liv assured, the trembling in her body growing by the second. Leif inhaled deeply and lifted his eyes to look at his brother. (Y/N) nodded and Leif sighed, reaching for his knife and holding it to her face. Biting down on the leather around the knife, Liv released a muffled groan as (Y/N) gently moved her onto her side before shifting so he was crouched down beside her. Leif stood and walked around the cot, leaning over her and reaching down to place his fingers on the part sticking out. Liv weakly wrapped her arms around (Y/N), watery eyes looking into his before she tucked her head into his neck.

"Easy, Liv, easy." (Y/N) whispered softly, cringing and closing his eyes as Leif pushed the arrow out. Liv shrieked and cried out, fingers curling and gripping tightly onto (Y/N)'s clothes. Leif grimaced, continuing to push until the head of the arrow stuck out on the other side of her shoulder. Gripping the head, he pulled it out as Liv continued to cry. (Y/N) carefully set her back on her back and grabbed some bandages to wrap around her shoulder before she could continue bleeding. Leif gently pried the knife from her mouth and set it aside, sitting at the edge of her cot and dipping the cloth into the water again before dabbing it against her forehead.

"She'll be alright, Leif."

"I know," Leif murmured. (Y/N) stood up and sighed, reaching over to rub his brother's back before stepping back and exiting the tent. 

Many Vikings had taken up residence within the walls of the castle but the castle could only contain half the army. Those who remained outside of the walls moved their tents closer to the castle and celebrated the victory with ale and food. A proper feast would surely be held the following day once the castle was secure and all the nobles were captured. (Y/N) didn't expect any less from his people. 

Moving through the camp, it didn't take long for him to spot Harald sitting by a fire, hands lifted to warm himself. He stared at the fire with a scowl on his face, glaring at anyone who stepped near him. (Y/N) inhaled softly and walked forward, taking a seat beside him on the log. Harald glanced at him, scowl fading. "Greenlander.."

"I assume you're sitting here pouting like a child because the Boy King lives?"

"Am I that obvious?" Harald chuckled dryly and dropped his hands, resting his arms on his knees instead. With a heavy sigh, he bitterly spoke, "King Canute has robbed me of justice." 

(Y/N) watched Harald stare into the fire, his anger shifting into a look of disappointment. He'd been unable to get justice for his brother, (Y/N) could only wonder what ran through his mind. So, in an effort to keep him occupied, (Y/N) touched his necklace. "Remember when you asked about this?" Harald looked away from the fire, quirking a brow at him and nodding.

"I remember you ignored me." 

"Yes, well," (Y/N) chuckled and Harald smiled. "When I was a boy, a bit before we were attacked, my mother gave me this thread to wear. She said for every creature you kill, you will wear one of their teeth as a reminder that you survived. It was a tradition started by her father's father. So, after I killed a fox, I added my first tooth to the thread." 

"So, all of these are..." Harald trailed off, straightening his back and leaning in slightly to look at the necklace more closely. He lifted his hand to gently trace the thread and teeth.

"Some are foxes, wolves... bears." 

"Bears?"

"Bears." (Y/N) nodded with a wide smile, dropping his hands onto his legs. "My mother's necklace is long but my grandfather's nearly reached to his knees."

"Really? He must've been a good hunter."

"Well..." (Y/N) cleared his throat and leaned in, bumping his shoulder with Harald's. Harald felt his breathing slow at the proximity, eyes flickering down to his lips. "His necklace had human teeth."

"What?" Harald blinked, eyes snapping back up to his as he gaped at him. (Y/N) stared at him, a grin slowly forming on his face before he broke out into laughter, reeling over and clutching his side. "You- You're lying? You little-" Harald clamped his mouth shut but he was unable to contain the smile spreading across his lips. (Y/N)'s laughter died down into giggles and he wiped away tears. 

"Don't worry, Prince." He giggled softly. "Only half of them were human." 

Before Harald could respond- or react-, someone called for him. Harald glanced back at them and sighed heavily, rising up from the log and looking back at him with one last smile. (Y/N) watched him walk away, licking his lips and lifting his hands to his necklace once more to undo the knot keeping the necklace tied around his neck. Slipping one of the bear teeth from the thread and standing, he stepped over the log and walked toward Harald.

"Prince!" Harald paused and turned, tilting his head and watching him step closer. Taking his hand, (Y/N) set the tooth in his palm and looked up at him. "Keep it as a reminder that you won a war, even if you didn't get the justice your brother deserved." 

Harald stared at it for a moment, features softening. He smiled and curled his fingers around it, bringing his fist up to his chest and over his heart. "Thank you, (Y/N). I'll treasure it."

#x reader #x you #x y/n #x male reader #vikings valhalla x you #vikings valhalla x male reader #vikings valhalla #vikings #vikings valhalla x reader #vikings valhalla x y/n #harald sigurdsson x reader #harald sigurdsson x y/n #harald sigurdsson x you #harald sigurdsson x male reader #harald sigurdsson #leif eriksson

[bumblesimagines]

Under The Moonlight

Part 11

Request: Yes or No

~~~

Novgorod was what he expected and more. A fairly sized city protected by tall stone walls. Surrounding the exterior of the city sat ships on sleds, collecting snow as they waited to be used. (Y/N) noticed the tall buildings peeking out from beyond the walls with domes resting on top. Such an odd shape for a roof. Within the city were many merchants and traders, calling out offers and the services they provided.

(Y/N) stopped briefly, watching two men ride past him on a sled pulled by a bulky horse. Harald chuckled and patted his back before approaching one of the sellers and offering his silver ring in return for three bowls of broth. (Y/N) took the small wooden bowl into his hands and brought it to his face, letting the steam warm his face before he drank and chewed on the chunks of meat floating in the broth. 

"What are they doing?" Leif asked and (Y/N) turned to look at him, following his line of sight toward two men in front of an old wooden building. One of the men sat on the snowy ground, slumped over and looking half-dead. The other man stumbled about before leaning back against the building and sliding down to the ground, head limply going from side to side. 

"Opium," Harald answered, pitifully looking at the men and shaking his head. "They say its smoke enters your body and steals your soul." 

"Why would they do it?"

"To escape this Earth. To talk to the dead." Harald shrugged lightly, finishing his broth and using his sleeve to wipe the snow and remains off his lips. (Y/N) hummed lightly, drinking the last of his broth and turning around at the sound of loud cheering coming from a large perched tent behind them. Harald grinned widely and nodded toward it, eagerly walking forward. The brothers followed him inside and (Y/N) took note of the multiple shirtless sweaty men of varying ages hanging about. Many with bruises. Wooden beams for lanterns and seating areas had been built within the tent. Toward the back of the tent, perched on a wooden stage of sorts, sat a middle-aged man drinking from his goblet. In the middle was an open area where two men connected at the wrist by rope swung at each other, blood dripping down their skin and bruises littering their bodies. Some men walked around the seating areas with bowls, taking coins from the spectators. 

"That's him," Harald whispered to them, motioning to the middle-aged man (Y/N) had noticed minutes prior. Harald walked along the sidelines as the fight ended with one of the men roaring in victory. Before Harald could get to his uncle, two guards stepped in front of him, blocking his path. Frowning at them, Harald scoffed. "Let me by. I'm Prince Harald Sigurdsson. I'm here to see my uncle!" The guards refused to budge, even shoving Harald back when he got too close. 

A gong sounded off and (Y/N) looked back at the middle, noticing two new shirtless men fighting each other. Suddenly, Harald handed Leif his sword and rushed forward, kicking the man holding the other down. The second man scrambled to his feet and stood up, only for Harald to whirl around and punch him. Turning to face his surprised uncle, Harald spoke despite being swarmed by guards, "What this fight needs is a Viking named Prince Harald Sigurdsson of Norway, great-grandson of Harald Finehair and blood relative of the esteemed Yaroslav the Wise!"

"Stop!" Yaroslav ordered, standing from his seat. He stopped and squinted down at Harald, hooking his fingers into the belt around his waist and raising a brow. "Harald?"

Shoving away the guards, Harald panted and greeted him. "Uncle."

"Look at you... What has brought you to Novgorod?" Yaroslav questioned curiously, eyeing the worn clothes on his body. Harald looked far from princely with his long snow-covered beard and messy hair. Unlike his nephew, Yaroslav appeared well-put together. He wore black clothes with gold designs embroidered on them. He had short curly black hair that swooped delicately over his forehead and a neatly trimmed beard. From everything Harald had told them, Yaroslav was a reasonable and hospitable man.

"It's a long story, Uncle. One told better over food and drink." Harald responded and a large smirk spread across Yaroslav's face.

Everything afterward passed by in a blur. They were taken to the finest inn in the city and given rooms where they bathed and changed into fresh clothes before being taken to a brightly lit room. Many colors covered the walls and the fabrics the people wore were eye-catching. (Y/N) supposed when one lived in a barren land, it was only natural to want to stand out. They sat at a long table with other guests, though Harald sat near his uncle. They were served a lot of food and given wine to drink. Harald spoke with his uncle and another man while Leif listened in on their conversation and (Y/N) occupied himself with the food.

"Greenlanders!" Yaroslav called out to them and (Y/N) paused mid-chew, turning his head toward the ruler. Yarslav grinned at them. (Y/N) wondered if everyone related to Harald was so friendly. "They have language at the edge of the world, don't they?"

"Last time I was there," Leif responded as chatter at the table ceased and eyes turned to look at them curiously. (Y/N) swallowed down his food and licked his lips, glancing at Harald. The prince smiled at him encouragingly.

"And tell us, what is it like to live so removed from civilization?" 

"Greenland is quiet," Leif answered again and shrugged lightly. Yaroslav stared at him, slowly nodding as his gaze flickered between the brothers and then to Harald. Not a good enough reply to quench the ruler's curiosity. 

"Quiet, and...?"

"Gives you time to think about things. At night, we would watch the norðurljós. Colors of all the heavens would light up the sky." Leif smiled, looking across the table at his brother, gaze turning fond as he spoke. The woman beside Leif watched him with a warm smile. "We heard stories when we were younger that they were the reflections of the Valkyries' armor. (Y/N)'s mother had a different story, though. When the moon is low, and the sea is sleeping, you can hear the songr of the hvlar swimming at the bottom of the ocean. And then, all at once, they explode from the darkness. Mouths open wide enough to swallow ships." (Y/N) smiled. He could still remember when his mother sat them outside to watch the dancing lights in the sky while she told them the story.

"I hated Greenland when I lived there," Leif confessed with a grimace, gaze falling onto the table. "Now I miss it. I miss the people I knew there." 

"I understand that," Yaroslav said with a hint of longing in his voice. Reaching for his cup, he lifted it in the air and smiled widely. "Welcome to Novgorod, where, unfortunately, quiet does not exist." Laughter scattered across the table and the guests raised their cups in turn. (Y/N) sipped on his wine and returned to his food, finishing his plate, and then hearing Yaroslav raise his voice at Harald.

"I cannot risk upsetting him or his crazy father just so that you can fight for something you never had!" He shouted and Harald looked away from him with a frown, leaning back in his seat as silence fell over the table again. Never taking his green eyes off Harald, Yaroslav continued more calmly. "As I see it, beloved nephew, you have two options: return to Kattegat and swear fealty to Olaf-"

"No."

"-Or do what Vikings have always done. Reivent yourself." His words made Harald's brows furrow but an interest blossomed in his eyes. 

Once Yaroslav finished eating, the dinner was considered finally over and most quests excused themselves to their lodgings. (Y/N) bid his brother goodnight and headed to his own lodgings, looking forward to sleeping in a proper bed that wouldn't make his muscles ache. Pushing open the door and stepping inside, he couldn't bring himself to be surprised when he noticed Harald sitting on the edge of the bed with his arms on his knees. With his gaze on the floor, (Y/N) couldn't get a clear view of his face. (Y/N) closed the door and stepped further into the room, slipping his dagger off his waist and setting it down on a chair before walking closer to Harald. He gently began running his fingers through Harald's soft locks, feeling Harald nuzzle against him and sigh heavily.

"My uncle is well within his rights to refuse me in favor of Canute. He claims the southern river trade route is blocked by a group of brutal nomadics called Pechenegs. Trade is what keeps Novgorod flourishing. He cannot risk going to war with Canute and losing his northern trade." Harald explained quietly, arms slowly slithering around (Y/N). 

"What will you do then? Reinvent yourself?" 

"Yes." Harald tilted his head upward, pressing his chin against (Y/N)'s stomach. Chuckling when (Y/N) gave him a puzzled look, he explained. "I cannot keep expecting others to help me. I need to work for it. I just need to find something that will sell for a good price."

"And what will you do then?"

"I will gather an army and take Norway," Harald answered confidently and (Y/N) hummed softly, tucking a brown strand behind Harald's ear. Harald smiled lovingly, leaning into (Y/N)'s hand and pressing a fluttery kiss to his wrist. (Y/N) shifted slightly, pressing the front of his feet to his ankles and carefully slipping out of his boots. 

"I hope you have a proper plan this time, Harald. We do not need a repeat of Kattegat." (Y/N) murmured, shedding the first layer of clothes and stepping around the bed. Laying down, he moved under the many warm blankets and snuggled into the pillow, watching Harald take his boots off and get comfortable. 

"I know, my love." Harald reached out and tugged him closer, rubbing his hands against the fabric of (Y/N)'s tunic. 

"Harald, we should talk about what I said back in-"

"We've had a long day, love," Harald interrupted quietly, kissing his forehead and pulling him further against his chest. Resting his chin on top of his head, Harald stared forward at the dim lantern keeping the room lit as his mind desperately tried to scrub away the words that made his heart ache. He'd found a love that made him stronger. He couldn't lose that. Not after the betrayals from Canute and his own brother. "Get some rest."

                    ➸        ➸       ➸       ➸       ➸       ➸

Stepping out into the cold, (Y/N) felt a wave of nostalgia wash over him. For a split second, he could see the icy ocean in the distance and hear the roaring wind slipping between the sparse trees near their home. But those visions were replaced by bustling crowds and the sound of chatter. With a sigh, (Y/N) headed down a staircase, easily finding Harald amongst the crowd. He spoke with a man selling all sorts of furs. (Y/N)'s brows furrowed at the sight. 

"Sleep well?" His brother asked as he approached, voice gruff and slightly shakey. His head turned back in the direction of the old building where opium was given, gaze lingering on it for far longer than (Y/N)'s liking. Taking Leif's arm gently, he pulled Leif's attention off the building and onto him but Leif averted his eyes upon seeing the frown on (Y/N)'s face.

"Leif-"

"What is Harald up to?" Leif cleared his throat, tugging his arm free and quickening his pace to greet the prince. (Y/N)'s frown only deepened and he followed after him, eyeing the furs bundled up and scattered across the tables. Harald grinned widely when he spotted them, stepping away from the seller and extending his arms to either side of him.

"I have a new plan!" He declared, slinging his arms around their shoulders and bringing them closer to the tables. "I must fund my own army since Yaroslav will not back one for me. I intend to buy as many furs as possible here and sell them in Constantinople."

"And how do you plan to get there?" Leif questioned, looking at his brother and quirking a brow in question. (Y/N) only shrugged in response.

"I will worry about that detail tomorrow, my friend." Harald chuckled rather sheepishly, tightening his hold on the brothers again and dragging them away from the table and toward the large fighting ring tent. (Y/N) grimaced, hearing an eruption of cheers slip out from the tent. "Today, we must make money doing what we're good at." 

Just like the prior day, the tent had been packed with both spectators and fighters. The fighters all dressed similarly. They wore no armor and carried no weapons. The only article of clothing on them were loose pants, leaving the rest of their body exposed to their opponents. A quick way of painting one's body in purple and green. The next fighter had been the victorious one from the day before. He was a tall dark-skinned man with short dark hair braided back tightly against his skull. When he turned slightly under the lantern light, (Y/N) spotted the scars littering his body. He carried an air of confidence, searching the crowd for any fighter bold enough to step up to the challenge as another man, his partner most likely, stepped forward.

"Who wants to bet against Kaysan, the great African warrior?" His partner called out, cackling when no one stepped forward. Shorter than Kaysan and less muscled, the man had fair skin and big brown eyes filled with arrogance. His hair had been cut short and trimmed even shorter on the sides. He seemed particularly proud of Kaysan, exchanging smirks with him when the other fighters looked away. "No one wants to bet against Kaysan?"

When no fighters stepped up, the man looked toward one of his own, motioning for him to step forward. "Maybe some of you will bet against Kaysan now!"

"I'll bet against both of them!" (Y/N) blinked, head snapping in Harald's direction. The prince stepped forward, turning sideways to point back at Leif. (Y/N) scoffed softly. "Two against two."

"Harald," Leif called quietly, lightly shaking his head and glancing around as the crowd grew louder and tossed their coins into the bowls the collectors carried. 

"Come on," Harald breathed, walking toward them and clapping his hands over Leif's arms. "We need the money."

"You need the money." Leif chided and frowned. 

"We're not gonna fight for the entertainment of these people, Harald." (Y/N) told him, gaze hardening. Harald looked at him, taking in the disappointment on his face. Pursing his lips, Harald nodded and sighed, looking back toward the three men. 

"I have a better idea!" Harald called and approached Kaysan's partner, smirking at him. "If this man accepts my bet of 100 hryvnya, I'll fight against both of his fighters." Harald looked back at the brothers, meeting (Y/N)'s eyes. His lover shook his head at him but Harald ignored it, giving him a small smile instead and looking back at the man. Kaysan chuckled softly under his breath as Harald and his partner shook hands. Harald walked off to get dressed and Kaysan powdered his hands, rubbing them together and walking by the two brothers. 

"Don't worry," He smirked lazily. "I'll try not to kill your brother."

"I can't promise he'll return the favor," Leif murmured and Kaysan chuckled before strolling back toward the center. (Y/N) folded his arms over his chest, feeling every muscle in his body tense. The crowd shouted Kaysan's name and poured more coin into the bowls. If Kaysan had so many fans, it meant he fought pretty often. And won. Harald's carelessness would get him killed, (Y/N) just knew it would.

Harald returned and powdered his hands, looking at the brothers with a confident smile. When the gong sounded off, he reared up his fists and charged first, punching the second fighter in his stomach and then connecting his fist to Kaysan's jaw. Kaysan stumbled back from the hit and Harald turned, swinging at the second fighter who blocked most of his hits. Grabbing the man by the arms, Harald turned and threw him to the ground, causing Kaysan to trip over him. Taking advantage of the moment, Harald kicked Kaysan in the face and stepped back, waiting for the men to get back onto their feet. 

Kaysan stood first, snarling as he swung at Harald. Harald dodged and blocked, landing a hit on Kaysan's side before pressing his forearm to Kaysan's chest and pushing him back against a support beam. Kaysan swung at Harald's stomach and Harald grunted, baring his teeth and punching Kaysan's cheek. He turned in time to see the other fighter close to him and ducked before the punch could land. Harald grabbed the man's leg and tossed himself onto the ground, rolling over and forcing the man to fall back. As he moved to stand, Kaysan charged, kneeing him in the stomach. Harald fell back, grunting softly and quickly moving onto his hands and knees. Kaysan grabbed his long hair and pulled him up onto his feet, grasping the sides of Harald's face and bringing his head down while also bringing his own knee up. (Y/N) grimaced when Kaysan's knee connected to Harald's face. 

Breaking free of Kaysan's grip, Harald dodged the punches thrown by both fighters and caught Kaysan's forearm, tossing his leg up and nearly hitting Kaysan in the groin. He punched Kaysan's face again but before he could turn, the other fighter, wrapped his arms around his waist and heaved him up, tossing him down on the ground. The weight of Harald forced the fighter to fall as well and the two men took big gulps of air as they recovered from the fall. Once orientated again, Harald moved forward and got on top of the fighter but the fighter quickly rolled over, shoving Harald off of him and right next to Kaysan. Harald tried scrambling back but Kaysan loomed over him, large hands reaching for Harald's throat. (Y/N) wrapped his fingers around his necklace and winced, almost looking away when Harald was picked up by the throat and tossed back down on the ground. With that, the gong rang again, signaling the first round was over. Leif reached back, taking the cup of water someone offered him for Harald.

Harald staggered onto his feet, drenched in sweat. His hair stuck to his face and trickled down from his lips. Harald walked toward the brothers, panting heavily and chuckling breathlessly. "See what you're missing?" Harald laughed, taking the cup and drinking.

"You're gonna get yourself killed." (Y/N) muttered, running his thumb back and forth over the bones and listening to the hollers from the crowd. He didn't miss the way one spectator shouted for Harald's death.

Tugging at his own necklace, Harald's grin widened. "I've got my lucky charm." He reminded him, chugging back more of the water and cringing at the taste of metallic. Leif eyed the other two fighters as they drank and gathered themselves again.

"Watch the left of the big one. He's slow to defend." Leif quietly told him and Harald hummed, handing back the cup and taking in a big gulp of air before turning around and walking back toward the center. 

Once the gong sounded off, Kaysan attacked first and Harald dodged his first punch, only for Kaysan to throw another punch at him with his other arm and hit the side of his face. Harald notably staggered more, the exhaustion of the first match beginning to take hold. Luckily, Harald recovered quickly and dodged the next punch, rearing up and repeatedly punching Kaysan in the face before shoving him back to have some space when he backhanded the other fighter. He turned back to Kaysan and attempted to throw another punch but Kaysan blocked it and shot his arm forward, grabbing Harald by the throat again and sneering down at him. The other fighter came up behind Harald, repeating his move of wrapping his arms around him and tossing him to the ground, only this time he landed on Harald. With the man on his back, Harald elbowed his side only to get kicked down by Kaysan. The other fighter moved fully onto Harald's back and slipped his arm around Harald's neck, forcing his face up for Kaysan to kick. But Harald used his weight to push back against the fighter on him, rolling over and causing Kaysan to miss. Before he could land some hits on the smaller fighter, Kaysan kicked his side again, hitting him hard enough to force him away and onto his back. 

As Kaysan approached, Harald threw a punch at his groin and Kaysan instantly leaned over in pain, giving Harald a clear opportunity to punch his square on the nose. Kaysan fell back from the force and Harald rolled onto his belly but before he could get up the other fighter crawled toward him and grabbed his ankle. Harald easily kicked his face and got up, letting the two men gather themselves and stand. The other fighter moved first, stumbling forward with a bleeding nose. Harald wrapped his arm around the man and used it to hold himself up and kick Kaysan in the stomach with both feet. With his arms still around the fighter, he used his weight to turn and slam the man onto the ground. Getting on top of him, Harald punched him again and again until there was a sickening crack and Harald got off the heaving man. 

With his fighters losing, Kaysan's partner looked at his last fighter and motioned for him to get into the fight. (Y/N) glanced toward the man at the gong but he remained still, even as the new fighter grabbed Harald from behind and tossed him toward a support beam. With the fight turning into three vs one, Leif shed his coat as Kaysan got on top of Harald. Harald raised his arms up to block Kaysan's repetitive punches while the new fighter checked on the other man.

"Fuck!" (Y/N) hissed when Leif charged, tackling Kaysan off bloody and bruised Harald. He got a punch in before standing to face the third fighter and grabbing his arms. Leif shoved him back against a support beam, taking the side of his face and slamming it against the beam again. When the man fell to the floor, Leif wrapped his arms around his neck and rolled onto the floor so the man was on top of him. Wrapping his legs around the man's body, he squeezed his forearm around the man's neck, and then seemingly out of instinct, he snapped it. Kaysan and his partner quickly fled the tent, whether out of fear or not wanting to pay, (Y/N) couldn't tell nor force himself to care. Harald scrambled onto his feet and pulled Leif up.

"We won, Leif!" Harald laughed, holding Leif by the shoulders and lightly shaking him. Leif panted, breath going in and out in short bursts. His widened eyes stared down at the dead man at his feet and (Y/N) picked up Leif's coats, approaching them and handing them off. Leif slipped them on and quickly walked away, looking disoriented and panicked.

"(Y/N)-" Harald began, reaching out toward him but (Y/N) ripped his arm away when Harald's fingers grazed it. One would've thought Harald had burned him. Harald's throat tightened when (Y/N) didn't even look back at him as he walked away from him and exited the tent.

(Y/N) caught up to his brother, his heart cracking when Leif flinched. "Come, Leif." (Y/N) whispered, rubbing his hands against Leif's arms and guiding him back toward the inn. Leif's breathing slowly returned to normal but his gaze remained distant. Guilt clouded his eyes. (Y/N) headed toward Leif's room, opening the door and closing it behind them. 

"I... I killed a man." Leif breathed out, slumping down on his bed and burying his face in his hands.

"You saved Harald's life." (Y/N) pointed out softly, taking a seat beside his brother and rubbing circles along his back. But they both knew it hadn't been the act itself that had shaken Leif. It'd been the way he lost control of himself, just like their father did. For a man who spent most of his adulthood hoping to prove he wasn't like his father, flipping the switch so easily meant everything he worked toward was a mere mask. It meant a day would come when he'd fully lose himself to blind rage and bloodlust. 

Inhaling deeply, Leif pulled his hands away from his face and (Y/N) noticed the unshed tears in his eyes. "I did not need to kill him... it-it just happened so quickly-"

"I know, Leif." (Y/N) cooed, wrapping his arms around Leif's shoulders and pulling him close. Placing a hand on the side of Leif's face, (Y/N) kissed the top of his head and murmured soft comforts into his ear. He sat still on the bed, allowing his brother to weep for as long as he wanted. For months, Leif had been swallowing his grief and letting it eat him up inside. (Y/N) waited until Leif grew tired before letting him have a moment alone. 

Stepping out of Leif's room and heading toward his own, (Y/N) heard the distant clap of thunder. When he entered his room, he spotted Harald sitting on one of the chairs and tending to the countless bruises and cuts on his body. Harald gently dabbed at his skin with a piece of wet cloth, wiping away the dust and blood on his body. (Y/N) stared at him. No part of him wanted to help Harald with his injuries. 

"A friend of my uncle's has given us two thousand hryvnya to get him to Constantinople. I've already bought the furs. All we must do now is-"

"Leif killed a man for you... and you're talking about furs?" (Y/N) remained rooted in his spot by the door, watching Harald pause his movements and look up at him. Harald swallowed, squeezing blood and water from the cloth before setting it on the table and standing up. 

"I understand you're upset-"

"Upset? I'm exhausted, Harald. I've been away from home for almost a year, I've been forced into two wars, and my brother isn't well. You... You are so..." (Y/N) pressed his quivering lips together, tearing his eyes away from Harald and shakily exhaling. The disappointment and sadness washed away, becoming muddled with anger and exhaustion. A small chuckle escaped him. "You and your brother are the same, Harald. All you desire is power. You've spent your whole life wanting a throne that was never yours."

Clenching his jaw, Harald spoke, "My great-grandfather was Harald Finehair. My family has sat on the throne for many years. Olaf promised the throne would pass to me and it has been given to a boy instead. The throne belongs to my family, (Y/N). It does not belong to the son of an oathbreaker."

"It belongs to your family, yes. But not you. You were born too late. You never had a claim to it." (Y/N)'s tone turned icy and filled with irritation, teeth grinding together as his eyes shot back to look Harald in the face. The prince stared at him, disbelief settling on his face. "The throne would've been yours long ago if you had a proper claim."

"Not true."

"You think all this has happened for no reason? Canute's betrayal? Olaf's betrayal? Why else would the Gods stop you from sitting the throne? You were never meant to be king, Harald!" (Y/N) snapped abruptly and Harald flinched slightly, lips parting. His eyes flickered between (Y/N), his hands growing clammy and his throat tightened. Harald shook his head repetitively, collecting his shirt and coats. His gaze remained downcast when he walked forward, arm brushing against (Y/N)'s as he walked past him. The door slammed loudly behind him, nearly rattling the walls. (Y/N) felt himself deflate, staggering forward toward his bed and collapsing onto it. Curling into himself, he stared at the fireplace, listening to the fire crackle and the thunder grow closer. Pain and guilt flooded his veins like a wave. But he couldn't deny the trickle of relief.

#x reader #x you #x y/n #x male reader #vikings valhalla x male reader #vikings valhalla x you #vikings valhalla #vikings #Vikings valhalla x y/n #harald sigurdsson x reader #harald sigurdsson #harald sigurdsson x male reader #harald sigurdsson x you #Harald sigurdsson x y/n #leif eriksson

[bumblesimagines]

Under The Moonlight

Part 13

Request: Yes or No

A lil short! Chapters may come out a bit slower as I've got some stuff going on this week

~~~

"These are letters, not runes. When put together they create words and sentences, just like when we speak. These words are in English, see? And these-" Leif pulled his finger away from the page and reached for another book, setting it on his thigh and flipping it through it before stopping on a page with new letters on them. They appeared more fluid and had more shape to them than the English letters. "-are in Arabic. Mariam speaks this language. She's teaching me how to understand it."

"So these letters are different from the others because they are different languages?"

"Yes, very good." 

Humming softly, (Y/N) took the leather book from Leif's hands and placed it on his own lap, finger running over the words on the page. "How many languages can Mariam speak?" He asked, lifting his head to look over at the woman. Leif had set up a rug from her some distance away so she could pray. He explained she had to pray at a certain hour while facing a certain direction. During prayer, she'd wrap her head in a cloth and chant softly under her breath before moving down to her knees and bowing her head. 

"She speaks many languages. Greek and Latin among them." Leif answered, closing the book in Arabic and placing it among the others. He took out a round metal disk and showed it to him. (Y/N) had seen Leif fiddling with it a few times, holding it still and seeing where the small arrow pointed. (Y/N) gently pulled on the arrow with his fingertip, humming softly when it bobbed back into place. It always pointed in the same direction.

"I never thought of you as a scholar, Leif." Harald chuckled softly as he came to a stop beside them, curiously looking down at the disk in his hand. Leif offered it to Harald and smiled when the prince inspected it closely. 

"I never thought of you as a fur trader, but here we are." Harald chuckled and handed it back to Leif, stepping back when the older Greenlander rose to his feet. He took the books and secured them in a bag before looking over the ropes keeping spare luggage and the sled tied to the boat. Harald extended his hand toward (Y/N), offering a small smile and helping him up. (Y/N) murmured thanks and took the bag from Leif, heading toward the ladder and climbing up onto the boat where Lord Vitomir, his servant, Kurya, and Gestr were at. Lord Vitomir's servant glared at Gestr, lips slightly curled back in disgust. 

Suddenly, an odd sound echoed around them, sounding almost like an animal call and causing a soft rumbling. Kurya perked up at the sound of it and tensed, craning his neck to hear more closely as the others shared confused looks. The horses began to whine and tug lightly on their reins, shuffling around on their feet. (Y/N) stepped closer to the edge of the boat, looking down at the ice where the sound seemed to come from.

"What is that noise?" 

"It is the ice talking," Kurya answered the servant as the rumbling got harder, shaking small rocks and snow on the ice. "It has begun to crack and melt. We must get moving." He urged, standing up with his wooden stick and tapping it lighting across the ground as he walked. 

"Careful." (Y/N) whispered, watching Kurya step up and tuck his stick under his armpit, carefully grabbing the top of the ladder and making his way down. (Y/N) leaned over the edge and watched him use the stick to guide him, calling out to Harald and Leif. Taking an axe, Leif made some distance from the boat before hitting the ice to create a small hole. 

"What are they doing?"

Glancing back at the servant, (Y/N) cleared his throat. "Checking how far the ice has melted. It will get thinner and thinner as time goes by. Even then, we must tread carefully. Some spots will grow thinner and weaker than others. Be careful where you step from now on." (Y/N) advised and the young man nodded repeatedly, nearly knocking his hat off his head. 

"I will." He assured, face flushing lightly as he caught his hat in time. Some strands of blonde hair slipped out and he quickly tucked them back in, nose scrunching when Lord Vitomir called him back and lightly stomped his foot with raised brows. The servant hurried back to the man and appeared to get a scolding when Lord Vitomir leaned over toward his ear.

With the fright of the ice breaking and news of a dangerous ice dam, Harald got everyone situated back on the boat and they continued forward for the day until night began to fall and everyone unloaded to sleep on the bank of the river. (Y/N) could sense the fear and anticipation. (Y/N) didn't blame them. Getting on the boat with the knowledge it could break and slip into the water where they'd be unable to move it made him queasy. Even more so with the potential of a wall of ice descending upon them at any second. The next morning they got their belongings back on the ship and Harald agreed it'd be best for most to walk on foot to keep a load off the boat. 

The snowy bank around them had drawn closer, making the river narrower. A sign they were getting closer to the lake, and with no signs of Pechenegs yet. Kaysan walked alongside the horses, guiding them whilst chatting with Cadlin. They shared smiles and lingering looks, glancing at the other often and laughing more. Luckily for the two, Gestr didn't appear to be the observant type. He'd been more interested in Lord Vitomir and his riches, constantly eyeing his chest of belongings and attempting to get on his good side. 

"What did you say to me, boy?" (Y/N) turned his head in time to see Gestr slap Lord Vitomir's servant across the face, knocking the shorter man to the ground. Taking out his whip, Gestr raised it but before he could strike the servant with it, Lord Vitomir got in his way, hissing lowly at him and shoving him back. "Control your slave or I will teach him the lessons you have failed to!" Gestr spat, angrily sticking his whip away and grumbling under his breath. He lifted his head with a huff and made eye contact with the Greenlander, holding it when (Y/N) approached him.

"Threaten someone else again and I'll drown you myself." (Y/N) murmured lowly and Gestr swallowed. Any remarks died in his throat and when he looked away in defeat, (Y/N) turned around and walked away, nodding to the servant when he sent him a small smile despite his reddening cheek. 

The peace didn't last long forever, as the boat suddenly lurched forward and then sunk slightly. The horses rose onto their back legs and whined, huffing and moving around as Kaysan tried calming them. A quick jog to the other side of the boat showed him the problem. Ice had broken, just as predicted, but luckily not enough to completely sink the boat. Harald assessed the problem and sighed, motioning to the bags tied to the sled. 

"Kaysan and Batu, go get us logs. Dorn, Cadlin, mind the horses. Everyone else, try to lighten the load." Harald called out instructions and stepped forward, careful to avoid putting pressure on the side of the boat. He tossed bags back toward (Y/N) until only the sled remained below.

(Y/N) went through the items in the bags, tossing out anything they wouldn't need to survive while the others were sent off to collect wood. Once enough had been collected, they stuck the sturdy logs underneath the boat and into the water, hoping to elevate the boat enough to push it forward. With the logs secured, (Y/N) grabbed one of the logs and held onto it until Harald called out an order, pushing down on the log as hard as possible. Dorn and Cadlin pulled on the reins of the horses, encouraging them to pull the boat forward. Leif, Batu, Kaysan, and Harald pulled down on the logs while everyone else- minus Mariam and Kurya- pushed the sled forward. The boat began to rise but it proved futile with everyone exhausted. The boat collapsed back down and Harald groaned in displeasure.

"Again!"

"Harald, the horses need to rest." Batu objected.

"We cannot stop! Once night falls, the river will freeze again and the sled will be trapped. Let's try again!" Harald ordered and everyone begrudgingly tried again. The boat rose again and it almost worked, but one of the logs snapped in half. Harald and Leif nearly fell on the ground with their log and Harald cursed softly. "Kaysan, get us a new log-"

"We need to rest." Leif breathed, soft pants escaping him.

With Leif's order to rest, Batu checked on the horses and gave them fresh water. Harald stalked away, in both anger and disappointment, collapsing down on a small hill overlooking the bank. (Y/N) stared after him and sighed, rubbing a gloved finger on the bridge of his nose and stepping toward the sled to take a seat. Mariam approached him with a gentle smile, smoothing the underside of her dress as she sat beside him. 

"I have seen the way Harald looks at you, looks for you." She said softly, folding her hands in her lap and looking toward the others when they sat down in front of the boat to rest. 

"We have known each other for a while now. He just... respects me."

"He respects Leif, but he does not look at him the way he does you. I see it, (Y/N). There's something between you and him. A... A longing and much regret. Guilt. It is not my place nor my business, but I care for your brother and I've come to care for you. What has happened?" Mariam spoke softly and looked back at him, smiling and placing her hand over his. For a moment, (Y/N) felt as if he were speaking to his mother and a breathy chuckle escaped him. 

"A lot... A lot has happened. I did not intend to become close to Harald when I first met him. He has betrayed the trust I put in him twice and even though it was with good intentions, I... I cannot bring myself to forget it. I was harsh last time we spoke in private and he has given me the space he believes I need which... counts for something, right? I do not know anymore. What I feel for him has not disappeared but it has changed. I trust him and I care for him. Though, I cannot say for certain he'll save me in exchange for the crown if it came to it. Even if he did, he'd hesitate. I do not want that love. I want someone who wouldn't think twice." 

"Have you expressed this to him?"

"You've seen Harald. If it isn't something he wants to hear, he'll brush it off or stomp away like a child." (Y/N) murmured and lightly shook his head. Mariam laughed softly before cupping her hand over her mouth and coughing. (Y/N) frowned, watching her cough a bit more and regain her composure as if it hadn't happened. 

"Yes, I've seen Harald and his childish nature. I've also seen him be a leader, a friend, and a kind man. Sometimes, men like him, need a push in the right direction. It is up to you whether you wish to push him or not. Because if you don't, there are plenty of others on this Earth who will give you the love you believe you deserve. Harald may be one of them, he just hasn't shown it in. But you shouldn't need to wait around for it to show itself. I've seen many people wait for their lovers to give them what they deserve and they've ended up waiting for years. You must think about yourself and your heart." Mariam wrapped her arm around his shoulder, pressing her cold lips to his temple and smiling sweetly. (Y/N) sighed and returned the smile.

They sat together in silence until Harald and Leif returned with more wood. This time, they slipped some logs near the side of the sled above the water before sticking another log into the ice. (Y/N) resumed his position by his log with Kaysan, waiting for Harald's order. When it came again, he pushed down on the log as hard as he could, hearing the others grunt and groan in effort. The boat creaked and the horses whined and they kept pushing until the boat slipped forward, sliding on the logs and out of the water. Excited cheers broke out and hugs were exchanged. Harald wrapped his arms around (Y/N), holding him tightly against his cheek and laughing. 

"Come on, we should get ready," Harald called and grinned at (Y/N) before jogging forward to get things out of the way and put the leftover belongings on board.

(Y/N) licked his lips and hummed softly, moving his thoughts onto the task at hand and checking on the horses. He made his way to the boat where Leif set up the ladder, watching the Kurya and the girls head up onto the boat. (Y/N) paused when he heard a soft squish and looked down, noticing his wet boot. His eyes drifted onto the water slipping down, not from the boat or the hole but from a different direction. Leif and Kaysan followed his line of sight, brows furrowing and heads turning to identify where the water could be flowing from. But their unspoken questions were answered.

"The ice dam has broken!" Harald hollered, pulling everyone's attention toward the back. Water began rounding the corner, moving slow enough to give them some time but fast enough to get everyone rushing. "Release the horses! Cut the boat free!"

Running toward the horses, (Y/N) and Batu undid the reins and chains keeping the horses tethered to the boat as the others worked on getting the boat free of the sled. Pushing on the bums and clicking their tongues, they got the horses to move. Most of them headed toward the treeline and toward safety, a relief for Batu. Kaysan helped get the last few moving before a scream caught (Y/N)'s attention. He turned back and spotted Lord Vitomir attempting to pull his servant out of some broken ice. The dam fast approached them, carrying wood and chunks of snow along with the water. 

"Harald!" (Y/N) called back to the prince and Harald snapped his head in his direction, eyes widening at the sight. 

"I'll help them! Get on the boat!" He ordered, dropping some rope and running toward Lord Vitomir and the servant. (Y/N) ensured the others got onboard the boat first before climbing up the ladder, moving toward the back, and peering over to look for Harald. Harald picked up the drenched servant and moved toward the boat but the ice broke under Lord Vitomir, plunging him into the water. Harald stopped and looked back at the man but the calls for him made him continue forward. He reached the boat, lifting the servant- a young woman rather than a man- up to (Y/N) and Batu. Everyone got the oars into place and Leif secured the steering oar, glancing back as Harald was pulled onboard. 

"Father!" The woman screamed and stared in horror as Lord Vitomir disappeared beneath the water and debris. The boat lurched forward from the force and she stumbled backward, falling into (Y/N)'s chest and grabbing tightly onto his arms when he held her steady. Once the boat stabilized against the rushing water, Brigtoc grabbed a fur blanket and brought it to her, handing it off to (Y/N) so he could wrap it around her.

"Come, you must sit and get warm." (Y/N) said quietly and took her away from the side of the boat. She slumped on the seat, tears filling her eyes and slipping down her cheeks. She stared forward, whether in shock or defeat, and sobbed softly, her body trembling. (Y/N) rubbed the sides of the sides of her arms, hoping the warmth and furs would get her dry before she could fall ill. Mariam stepped toward them and placed a hand on his back, waiting for him to get out of the way so she could sit with the girl and hold her comfortingly.

Moving to stand beside Harald, he glanced back at her. "You couldn't save them both, Harald."

"She called him father... Who knows if she has any family left." Harald whispered, looking down at the water, searching for a glimpse of Lord Vitomir. (Y/N) placed a hand on his arm and lightly squeezed it, offering Harald a small smile.

"She may have family in Constantinople. We must look out for her until then." 

#x reader #x you #x y/n #x male reader #vikings valhalla x male reader #vikings valhalla x you #vikings valhalla #vikings #Vikings valhalla x reader #harald sigurdsson x y/n #harald sigurdsson x male reader #harald sigurdsson x reader #harald sigurdsson #harald sigurdsson x you #leif Eriksson #valhalla mariam #valhalla kurya #valhalla batu #valhalla kaysan #valhalla elena #valhalla dorn #valhalla brigtoc #valhalla cadlin

[bumblesimagines]

Under The Moonlight

Part 15

Request: Yes or No

Officially putting this on hiatus until season 3 comes out!

~~~

Cold.

Why did he feel so cold? 

The noises around him sounded muffled and distant. His body moved on its own, swaying and floating... floating? He took in a breath and immediately regretted it as water invaded his mouth and throat. His eyes snapped open. Murky water surrounded him. His legs began kicking wildly under him, fear clutching his chest. His instinct overrode the fear and he looked up, following the light shimmering above him and breaking through the surface. The water continued to drag him as he attempted to stay above water until he reached a shallower part of the river, hands clumsily grabbing onto the smooth rocks under the water. His chest burned and his head ached.

"(Y/N)! (Y/N), are you alright?" He groaned in response, stumbling slightly as he got to his feet, the weight of his drenched clothes pulling him off balance. Hands grabbed his arms to keep him steady and he squinted through the pain, seeing the familiar face of Brigtoc. She seemed fine, just drenched from head to toe. She winced and released him, reaching down to the ends of her cream-colored dress and ripping off a piece. 

"The others?"

"I am not sure." She answered, pressing the cloth against his temple. He hissed when it stung and leaned his head back, spotting the red spreading across the cloth. 

"Are you two alright?" They turned to look at Batu making his way down the bank toward them with one of the oars in hand. Brigtoc exhaled in relief, shoulders slumping slightly at the sight of him alive and well. Batu swept his gaze around the area and frowned when he couldn't spot the others. His eyes settled on (Y/N)'s temple and he sucked his teeth, leaning forward to look at the injury. "You must've hit your head. Looks like a cut, nothin' serious." 

"Good," (Y/N) sighed, taking the cloth from Brigtoc and keeping it pressed against his temple. "Come, we must head back to the falls. Everyone else will likely regroup there."

"The boat couldn't have gotten far either." Batu nodded, tucking the large oar under his armpit and marching forward, occasionally calling out for Kaysan. Their journey downstream led them to Eleana, Kaysan, and Kurya across the river.

"Have you seen the others?" Kaysan asked, standing up from his crouched position beside Kurya. Kurya seemed fine as well, apart from coughing up some water.

"No." Batu crossed the shallow river and dropped the oar on the ground before tossing his arms around his friend and chuckling. (Y/N) followed him, glancing back at Brigtoc when she nearly slipped and fell. The redhead paused for a moment, staring upstream at two figures approaching them. 

"Dorn!" She called out and (Y/N) looked over his shoulders, spotting Leif and Dorn. The young girl had her arm around Leif's shoulders and she walked with a visible limp. Batu ran over to them, taking Dorn's other arm and helping them quicken the pace. 

"Your head-"

"I'm fine, Eleana." (Y/N) murmured, touching her arm and smiling. With most of the group reunited, they were only missing three members. Cadlin, Mariam, and... Harald. Leif surveyed their surroundings before nodding for everyone to continue their trek downstream in search of the boat and the others. They were able to locate the boat and soon spotted Mariam collecting some rope. 

Jogging forward, Leif called out, "Mariam!" The woman turned her head in his direction, a smile breaking out on her face. She stood up and opened her arms, embracing Leif when he got close enough. 

"I am fine." She assured, looking over everyone as they gathered before frowning. "But the Pechenegs took Harald. He convinced them we were all dead." 

"What colors did they wear?" Kurya asked, a slight panic in his voice. 

"Red and white." 

"It was not the Khan then. Probably a tribe from the east." Kurya breathed in relief. (Y/N) gazed into the forest and walked forward, spotting the horse tracks. Along with footprints that would turn into streaks and then back into footprints. They were dragging Harald back to their camp. (Y/N) took in a deep breath and turned to look at his brother. Leif nodded at him, securing his axe to his side and stepping forward.

"(Y/N) and I are going to find Harald."

"We'll go with you," Kaysan called.

"No. You are needed here to right the boat." Leif dismissed with a shake of his head. Eleana grabbed a quiver still containing arrows and slipped it around her shoulder. She met the gazes of Brigtoc and Dorn, nodding to the girls and looking back at Leif.

"Then we're going." 

"And me too." Kurya chimed in. "I'm the only one who knows their camps. I'm your best hope of surviving."

With the crew divided, Batu handed Dorn his blade and Brigtoc took an axe from the weapon's barrel. Batu and Kaysan stayed behind with Mariam to get the boat water ready. Placing Kurya's hand on his shoulder, Leif set off with the others, following the tracks in the dirt. From the direction they were headed in, (Y/N) deducted the camp near the river had been the ones to take Harald. It seemed small enough but the Pechenegs were ruthless warriors. It didn't take long to find the camp with the sound of loud chatter, horses, and dogs echoing through the trees. Once close, they ducked down and climbed a small hill to observe the camp.

"I smell fire," Kurya whispered.

"There is a camp below us. Eight tents. Many horses and some dogs." Leif described for him.

"It is a raiding camp. Harald would be there. Can you see the Khan's main camp?" Kurya asked and they craned their necks to look past the sparse trees behind the camp. In the distance, they could see the start of a larger camp. More tents, more warriors. 

"Yes." (Y/N) breathed, fingers anxiously digging into the dirt. 

"(Y/N), Kurya, and I will bargain with the leader for Harald. If they don't bring us horses, it means we failed and they will know that there are others. You must get back to the boat and leave as soon as possible." Leif instructed the girls and took Kurya's hand once more, placing it on his shoulder. But Eleana shook her head.

"We won't leave without everyone."

"When the warlord sees me, he will be required to send for the Khan and my brother will return with many warriors," Kurya told her with a small frown. (Y/N) reached for Eleana's shoulder, giving it a gentle squeeze. She met his gaze and shook her head again, placing her hand over his and wrapping her fingers around his palm.

"You must go if the plan fails. The others will rely on you to get them to Constantinople." (Y/N) spoke softly, lifting his brows at her. Eleana dug her teeth into her bottom lip and sighed in defeat. With the plan fresh on everyone's minds, (Y/N) and the other two men stood up and began heading down to the camp. They kept low to the ground to avoid being spotted, maneuvering through the trees. 

"Hey," Kurya called out to them softly. "You must promise me something. The Khan will return with many men and they will catch you if you try to take me with you."

"We didn't come all this way to leave you behind, Kurya," Leif protested quietly.

"But I did." Kurya fished a necklace out of his shirt, holding it up for them to see. It contained a tiny container at the end of it. Realization settled on Leif's features when he noticed it. "Mariam gave this to me. By bringing me this far, you have given me the chance to redeem myself to Ulgen the Allfather of my faith. Now when I die, he will turn my spirit into a bird and I will fly to Ocmah, where my wife has been waiting for me for a long time." 

Tucking the necklace back into Kurya's shirt, Leif lightly shook his head. "She's going to have to wait a little longer, my friend." Rising to their feet, (Y/N) slipped his dagger out of his sheath and wrapped his arm around Kurya's shoulders. Pressing the blade gently against Kurya's neck, they moved forward toward the entrance of the camp. The men there spoke in a language (Y/N) couldn't understand but he saw the way their eyes slightly widened at the sight of Kurya. They held their weapons tightly but made no move to stop them as they headed toward the warlord's tent. 

And within the tent, (Y/N) saw Harald. 

Hooks were impeded into Harald's chest muscles with ropes tied to them, holding Harald up in the air. His hands remained tied behind his back and a light sheen of sweat covered his body. Purple and red-coated Harald's neck, confirming (Y/N)'s suspicions. Harald had been dragged to the camp by rope. The way he'd been strung up nearly made bile rise up in (Y/N)'s throat. Harald panted and heaved, groaning in pain.

"Cut him down or we'll kill him," Leif ordered, widened eyes tearing away from Harald to look at the man sitting on the chair. The warlord held a skull in his hand which he appeared to drink from. The warlord set the skull down and slowly rose from his seat, staring at Kurya with a small sneer. "You know who this is? Do you?"

"This is the brother of the Khan." The warlord murmured.

"He has a bounty on his head, which we are willing to trade to you for the Norse and three horses," Leif explained and (Y/N) pressed the blade against Kurya's throat. The warlord's jaw tightened and he inhaled, nostrils flaring and hands curling into fists. He turned to look at one of his men, speaking in a foreign language before nodding to the other two holding the ropes that kept Harald up. The two men released the ropes and Harald fell down onto his knees with a grunt and pained groan. The first man glared them down, brushing past them and leaving the tent. The ropes were cut from Harald's hands and the hooks pulled out of his skin. Harald leaned over in pain and staggered onto his feet, blood seeping down from the holes in his chest. 

"Never felt better." Harald strained quietly, attempting to be reassuring.

"Now, the horses." Leif turned back to the warlord but then swords pressed against his and (Y/N)'s necks, forcing (Y/N) to remove his dagger from Kurya's neck. The warlord smirked at them and slowly clapped his hands as laughter spread through the tent. (Y/N)'s arms were suddenly restrained, causing the dagger to fall to the ground with a clatter. The three were dragged out of the tent and toward some thin logs. (Y/N) was placed behind one of the sets, his legs kicked out from under him and arms pulled out to each side of him. His wrists were tightly bound and he looked out at Harald and Leif as the same was done to them. 

"I hope you have another plan." Harald breathed, gaze flickering between the two brothers. The warlord stepped out from his tent, holding (Y/N)'s dagger in his hands. He inspected the blade thoroughly, the smirk still present on his face. He strode toward the middle and spoke out in his language. Whatever he said earned him some laughter and he smirked at the men, pointing the dagger at Harald then Leif, and then (Y/N). His smirk only widened and a man roughly pulled up the back of (Y/N)'s shirt. The warlord moved around (Y/N) and hummed quietly, dragging the tip of his sword softly across his skin.

"Let's see how sharp this blade of yours is, Viking."

The fire crackled loudly but through his tears, it only looked like a blur. The disgusting cackle of the Christian echoed in his ears, sending a shiver of fear down his back. His small hands bundled up the ends of his shirt and he stood up, stumbling around a bit. He had to run. He had to find his mother. (Y/N) didn't get a chance to step forward before a foot slammed against his back, sending him falling onto the grass. A soft grunt escaped him and he winced at the aching. Moving onto his back, he looked up at the Christian with wide eyes, soft sobs escaping him and making his shoulders shake. 

"Pagan filth." The man sneered, slipping his sword out of its sheath. The tip of the blade pressed lightly against his forehead and he squeezed his eyes shut, praying that Allfather would allow him into Valhalla where he could wait for his mother. The pressure of the blade disappeared and he dared open his eyes. "I ought to teach you a lesson, boy." The man spat and he pressed the blade down into (Y/N) shoulder. Pain erupted through his body, only intensifying when the sword dragged down his chest. The tears spilled freely down his skin, incoherent pleas and babbles escaping his cracked lips. The pain wrapped around him like a snake, constricting him more and more until he could hardly breathe. Black spots began filling his vision but he was able to see the moment his attacker bled and his mother's soothing voice filled his ears.

He could still see it just as vividly as the day it happened. His home burning mere feet from him. He could still feel the warmth of the fire and how the smoke rose so high in the air he wondered which of the neighboring villages could see it. When the blade pierced into his back, he only shakily exhaled. His scar ached and burned with the memory. A memory he had tried so hard to bury. His fingers wrapped around the rope keeping him still, wrists wriggling wildly to get free. His teeth grinded together and his eyes squeezed shut, taking in deep breaths. He tried to ignore how the laughter of the warlord mixed with the echo of the Christian. Harald and Leif both squirmed in their restraints, sneering at the warlord and hurling insults but the warlord continued, slicing lines into (Y/N)'s back. 

Until an arrow whizzed past his head and buried itself into a tent, the fire on its tips spreading rapidly. Another arrow flew by, hitting and covering another tent in flames. (Y/N) felt the rope burn into his wrists but he continued wriggling them until he slipped free from the restraints. Kicking out his foot, he hit the ankle of the panicked warlord, causing him to lose his footing and drop the dagger. (Y/N) didn't think twice before grabbing his dagger and forcing the warlord on his back. Lifting the dagger, he brought it down on the warlord's head repeatedly as chaos spread throughout the camp. Frightened horses ran wild, running over Pechenegs and disappearing into the forest. Eleana rode in on one, shooting arrows at any Pechenge that charged at her while Brigtoc and Dorn freed Leif and Harald. 

"(Y/N), come on!" Leif called, freeing Kurya from his restraints but his words went in one ear and out the other. (Y/N) felt the blood spray on his face and clothes but didn't stop, even when the warlord became unrecognizable. It was only when strong arms wrapped around him and pulled him off the warlord that he finally saw something other than his attacker and his destroyed home. Harald heaved in pain, pulling (Y/N) along to a horse. (Y/N) panted softly and sheathed his dagger, noticing his stained hands as he got on the back of the horse. His arms tiredly wrapped around Harald's waist, face burying into Harald's back.

The horses raced through the forest and back to the boat where Batu and Kaysan had gotten it upright again. But it still needed to be pushed off the shallow bank. Brigtoc and Dorn slipped off their horses and raced over to help them. Eleana got off her horse and turned around, helping (Y/N) and Harald get off their horse. They immediately went toward the boat when Leif shouted that the Khan had followed them, helping push against it despite the pain. (Y/N)'s mind felt fuzzy and jumbled but he still pressed his wet hands against the boat and pushed, waves of stinging and pain shooting down his back. 

"Kurya!" Dorn screamed for the man and (Y/N) looked over his shoulder, spotting him turn and walk back in the direction of the Khan. Despite everyone's protests, Kurya continued and disappeared into the forest. After more pushing, the boat finally slipped into deep enough water to float. Harald immediately wrapped his arms around (Y/N) and lifted him up, grunting when his wounds were pressed against. (Y/N) climbed into the boat and whimpered. With the adrenaline fading, (Y/N) now had to face a new world of pain. Everyone else scrambled to get on board and into positions, using the oars to push the boat further out. (Y/N) slumped down at the front, leaning against the side of the boat and gazing out into the forest for any sign of Kurya. Screams of agony came from the forest, but the voice sounded deeper than Kurya's.

"Oh, my love. My sweet love." Harald whispered quietly over the sound of instructions being shouted. His hand cupped (Y/N)'s face, wiping away at the blood and tears. He gently pushed (Y/N)'s head onto his shoulder, feeling (Y/N) allow himself to go limp against him in exhaustion. Men slipped out of the treeline with Kurya. His wrists were tied and held apart. The men began taking turns slicing and stabbing into Kurya. The crew onboard watched in horror and cried until Leif got a single arrow and took a bow, aiming for Kurya. He released and hit Kurya directly in the heart, giving him a merciful and quick death. The men hollered and shouted in anger but made no move to retaliate against them, letting the boat continue freely down the river. 

"We must tend to you." Harald breathed, looking for Mariam. She collected some bandages from the storage and approached them, squeezing the last bits of water out of them. Tearing part of his shirt, Harald lifted the back of (Y/N)'s shirt and gently dabbed at the cuts, murmuring apologies and words of comfort. 

"Harald, you are hurt as well." (Y/N) reminded him, taking Harald's hand and slipping the cloth from his fingers. Eleana approached them, taking a sit beside (Y/N) and getting some cloth for herself. 

"You tend to Harald and I'll tend to you." She proposed, continuing to clean the cuts. (Y/N) winced slightly and turned to Harald, focusing on the four wounds on his chest. Once the cuts were cleaned up, Eleana carefully wrapped them around (Y/N)'s waist and chest before pressing a fleeting kiss to his shoulder and standing up. Harald watched her return to her seat, grimacing when (Y/N) ran a finger over one of the wounds. 

"You should have left when you had the chance. You wouldn't be hurt." Harald murmured. "It's my fault. You shouldn't have come back for me."

"You are the reason we came, Harald."

"You could have gone on without me... You could have gone home." Harald winced and inhaled deeply, one hand coming to rest on (Y/N) hip while the other took the hand (Y/N) used to clean his wounds.

Smiling tiredly, (Y/N) gazed into Harald's eyes. "I care about you a great deal. You are part of my home. You are part of my heart. I would never leave you for dead."

                    ➸        ➸       ➸       ➸       ➸       ➸

The passing days on the boat had allowed for Harald and (Y/N)'s wounds to slowly heal. The mood, however, remained somber. Kaysan had revealed not long after they escaped that they had found Cadlin's body after getting the boat upright. She'd likely been pinned under it and drowned. The news had devastated Dorn and Brigtoc, rendering them silent the following days. Mariam's condition had worsened as well. She coughed more often, her body trembled more noticeably, and she could hardly walk without help. The necklace she'd given Kurya had been meant for her to use on herself once the pain from her illness became unbearable. Still, she smiled and acted as if all were well. Leif tended to her frequently, keeping her warm with coats and comforting her. He hoped she'd be able to manage the last two remaining days left of their trip before they reached Constantinople. 

They chose to stop at a beach nestled between two mountains. Further up the beach were stairs that led up onto the mountains where ruins stood. Stone pillars and floors. Mariam claimed it was the Pontic Olbia, a place that had once been sacred to the Greeks. (Y/N) found the ruins fascinating to look at while setting up camp. The stories Mariam told of Constantinople and the other places she had visited made them sound like tales his mother would tell him. Despite her death looming over them, Mariam told her stories with a smile and spoke of how she'd show them around Constantinople. 

(Y/N) settled down as night fell and stories were exchanged over the fire. Batu told stories of his and Kaysan's adventures and close calls as con artists, most of which got a laugh out of everyone. (Y/N) found himself leaning against Harald, chuckling softly. Harald smiled, slipping his arm loosely around (Y/N)'s waist and nuzzling his nose against (Y/N)'s temple. The laughter slowly faded when they caught the pained look that appeared on Mariam's face. She smiled sadly, her eyes glittering with tears.

"I am sorry." She said faintly. "It is finally my time." She breathed. Her words brought a quietness to the air and for a moment, nobody moved or spoke. Batu inhaled deeply, gazing into the fire before standing up and walking forward toward her. He crouched down beside her and took her hand, sniffling softly.

"I miss you already." He whispered and she chuckled softly, giving his hand a comforting squeeze. When Batu stepped back, Brigtoc and Dorn moved closer, taking Mariam's hand and speaking softly to her. When it was Eleana's turn, Mariam leaned forward and sweetly cupped her face, smiling at her.

"You have a difficult road ahead." 

"Help me, please." Eleana pleaded quietly, leaning into Mariam's touch.

"I cannot advise you. But your heart will." Mariam cooed, tucking strands of blonde hair behind Eleana's ear. Eleana pressed her forehead against Mariam's, wiping away her tears and leaning back. (Y/N) and Harald stood up, helping Mariam to her feet. She winced and wobbled slightly, holding tightly onto their arms. 

"Thank you for everything, Mariam." (Y/N) said, smiling back at her.

"Remember what I told you, (Y/N)." Mariam touched his cheek, rubbing his skin with her thumb before looking at Harald. "Take care of these two for me. Please." 

"Always," Harald assured and Leif scooped Mariam into his arms. She bid everyone one last goodbye and curled up in Leif's arms, resting her head against his shoulder as he walked into the forest to have one last private moment with his lover before her death. (Y/N) watched them disappear into the forest with a heaviness in his heart. Harald rubbed his back and offered a sad smile. "At least she spent her final moments surrounded by love."

"Yes..." (Y/N) let out a shakey sigh and sat back down, leaning back on the blankets on the ground and staring up at the stars in the night. Harald lied down beside him and looked up at the stars as well, his fingers finding (Y/N)'s and hooking around them. (Y/N) tilted his head to look at him, giving Harald's hand a gentle squeeze. Harald's lips twitched upward and he hummed softly, gazing back at the Greenlander.

"We always seem to find ourselves together like this... under the moonlight, don't we?" Releasing his hand, Harald reached over to touch his cheek and stroke it, a warm smile settling on his features. "I want to stay like this by your side... forever."

#x reader #x you #x y/n #x male reader #vikings valhalla x male reader #vikings valhalla x you #vikings valhalla #vikings #vikings valhalla x reader #harald sigurdsson x reader #harald sigurdsson x y/n #harald sigurdsson #harald sigurdsson x male reader #harald sigurdsson x you #leif Eriksson #valhalla mariam #valhalla brigtoc #valhalla dorn #valhalla kaysan #valhalla batu

[bumblesimagines]

Under The Moonlight

Part 3

Request: Yes or No

I've got mixed feelings about this part ngl

~~~

They invaded the small kingdom of Kent first, swarming in and overwhelming the small, unprepared army.

Screams and war cries filled the air, metal clashing against metal and blood coating the ground as bodies fell. The noises around him faded into background noise as (Y/N) dug his dagger into one man's neck, the force knocking back his metal helmet, his bright blue eyes fearfully staring into (Y/N)'s despite having brazenly charged at him just moments prior. Ripping his blade out, (Y/N) turned away before the body could even hit the ground. Catching sight of his brother, (Y/N) moved forward, reaching down to pick up a discarded spear and leaning back before launching it forward, impaling the man charging at Leif.

"Behind!" Leif shouted and (Y/N) whirled around, narrowly missing the sword aiming toward his stomach. It sliced his side and he stumbled back, grunting softly at the pain and pressing a hand to his side. Before he could respond to the attack, an axe dug into the back of the guard's unprotected head, his eyes going blank. (Y/N) blinked and watched the body slump forward, blood splattering onto his boots. A blood-soaked Harald stood before him, bare chest heaving and lips pulled into a sneer. His eyes were wide and filled with bloodlust, his teeth bared and his body completely soaked in the blood of his kills. For a split second when Harald's eyes met his, (Y/N) felt the hairs on the back of his neck rise. But as the screams and shouts around them slowly eased into cheers and cries of victory, Harald began to calm down, taking in deep breaths. His stiff muscles relaxed and he exhaled deeply, letting the bloodied axe slip from his fingers. 

"Are you alright?" Harald breathed, his voice hoarse. He stepped over the Saxon he'd killed and pulled the wolf skin from his head, holding it in one hand and reaching out toward him to check on his wound. But (Y/N) tilted his body to dodge his touch, eyes falling down to his red-stained arm. 

"Don't touch me." (Y/N) whispered, fingers tightening around his dagger. He bowed his head to avoid Harald's gaze, eyes finding the deceased man again. If he had gotten in his way, could that have been him? Harald stared at him with parted lips, his brows twitching and furrowing as his eyes softened. His shoulders slumped.

"(Y/N)-"

"Are you okay?" Leif asked, gently prying his bloody hand away from his side. Leif inspected the wound as best as he could over the layer of clothes, carefully pressing against it and grimacing when (Y/N) winced. "We should tend to it soon."

"We should check on the others first." (Y/N) murmured, glancing back at Harald before regrouping with his equally exhausted and bloody friends. Ulf and Skarde appeared fine; the two men laughed together, exchanging tips and recounting how they attacked the Saxons. Njal had stained cloth wrapped around his hand and he lowered his gaze when he noticed (Y/N) looking at it.

"Are you hurt?" (Y/N) sheathed his dagger, stepping closer and gently touching his hand. The tall man grunted and nodded, allowing (Y/N) to gently look over his hand. Feeling fingers suddenly press into his wound, (Y/N) recoiled and hissed, smacking away the woman's hand as his lips formed a small pout.

"Fuck, Liv!"

"You're hurt." She observed, frowning at him and resting her hands on her hips like a mother would when scolding her child. The brunette huffed softly and turned toward the two young men who had now begun playfully bickering, reaching over to smack the back of Ulf's head and grab his attention

"Go find a lit torch." She ordered him, rolling her eyes at the kicked-puppy look Ulf sent her as he rubbed the back of his head and sulked off. Skarde snickered, following after his friend and continuing to boast about his skills.

"I'm fine, really." (Y/N) assured her but Liv simply crossed her arms in return, lifting her brows at him. Grumbling under his breath, (Y/N) looked away from her and back toward Leif, spotting Harald walking away from the man and toward King Canute. He watched the prince disappear down the street with the King, feeling a mixture of emotions. He still couldn't pinpoint why Harald seemed so focused on helping him and his family. They had nothing to offer him of value and (Y/N) was sure a prince like Harald could just lift his hand and get whatever he desired without even having to utter a word.

"Thank him next time you see him," Leif told him, wrapping an arm around his shoulders and pulling him into his side, being mindful of his wound. "We did well today, didn't we?"

"Freydis would be proud of us."

Within the hour, the army had taken over the kingdom and celebrated its victory with feasts and drinks, crowding in buildings and resting as they stuffed their faces and drank until they emptied barrels. Liv had quickly taken care of (Y/N)'s wound after pressing a heated blade to his skin and offering him a drink for his grievances.

Leaning against the wall and watching his friends laugh and celebrate, (Y/N) smiled softly. One man even gifted Njal a small bag of coins in return for helping him during the raid. With his cup empty and his head beginning to reel from all the noise, (Y/N) set his cup down and followed his brother outside for some fresh air.

Inhaling the smell of blood and rain, (Y/N) looked toward the gray skies and for once hoped for the rain to wash away his stained clothes. Hearing a soft grunt, he tilted his head downward and spotted Harald, now sporting a semi-clean shirt. He held a spear in his hands, impaling those laying on the ground to ensure they were dead. His face lacked his typical smile or smirk, instead replaced by a concentrated and almost furious look. Leif watched him curiously, eventually catching Harald's attention. The man sighed and offered him a smile, although it faltered slightly when he looked at (Y/N).

"You both fought well for your first battle." Harald praised, approaching another body. "Raiding becomes you."

"I can see why our father was so good-" Leif paused as Harald impaled the body. "-at killing. He had practice."

"Thank you, Harald. For helping me." (Y/N) quietly spoke, crossing his arms over his chest and gazing at the prince. His heart constricted again. Harald paused, one foot on top of another body and hands lifted midair. His eyes darted over to the young man, brows raising in surprise. Slowly lowering his arms, he nodded in acknowledgment.

"Of course." A genuine smile finally appeared on his face. The caution in (Y/N) eased at the sight of it. "We have to look out for each other. I'm sure you would've done the same."

"I thought Christians were supposed to be merciful?" Leif motioned to the trail of corpses Harald had impaled.

"We are." Harald nodded, bringing the spear down on the body, a barely audible grunt leaving the fallen soldier. "But I am Viking first." Walking away from them, he called out as he strolled toward the next closest body. "Do you have a problem with that?"

"I see little difference," Leif responded, watching the bloodied prince continue the routine.

"As a Viking, my goal is revenge. But as a Christian, I employ the virtues my Savior taught me; forgiveness, mercy, and love." Harald explained, pressing the tip of the spear against the back of a gurgling soldier. "I forgive this Saxon for following his king into an unholy war. I show him mercy-" Lifting the spear up, he brought it down and ceased the gurgling. "-by ending his pain."

"And what about love?"

Smirking at the brothers, Harald answered easily. "I love doing it."

Features hardening at his love for bloodshed, Leif shook his head. "We didn't come here to become more like our father."

"You came here so the world would forget about him and remember you. You think that is a secret?" Harald lifted his brows at Leif, a small amused grin tugging at his lips. (Y/N) scoffed softly, dropping his arms to his side.

"That is not why I came here. I came here for my sister. To ensure her safety. If I had it my way, we'd be back home instead of fighting alongside Christians who attempt to justify the violence they commit despite it going against their precious 'beliefs'. Tell me, Prince," (Y/N) spat out the title with enough venom it made Harald's face fall. "Do you think the Christian who burned down my home believed he was forgiving me for not believing in his false god? Did he take mercy on me by trying to kill me? Cause I know he must've loved doing it seeing as he laughed throughout it all."

"I-"

"You all view us and treat us the same; like wild animals that need to be tamed or put down. I believe you are no different. You stand by the very men who believe killing us instead of simply leaving us be is forgiveness and then smile to our faces as if all is well. I doubt what Gunnar did to my sister came as such a surprise seeing as you were quite close to him." (Y/N) snapped at the taken-aback prince and scoffed once more, shaking his head and turning around.

Letting his feet blindly lead him away from the two men, he slipped through alleys and moved over bodies, some dead others drunken until he found open space away from the buildings. Looking out over the vast farmlands, (Y/N) inhaled deeply and looked up at the drifting clouds. He could still feel the warmth of the fire against his skin, the smell and taste of the smoke, and the burning sting of a knife digging into his skin. Pressing a hand to his chest, he squeezed his eyes shut and slowly breathed, trying to repress the memories of that dreaded day.

With the exhaustion of the past few days finally catching up to him, (Y/N) sunk down onto the ground and brought his knees up, resting his arms on them. He continued watching the clouds, quietly asking the Gods above for guidance and strength. His soft praying slowly fell silent when he heard the clicking of hooves against the gravel and he turned his head, spotting Harald approaching him with two horses. 

"We'll be moving on tomorrow morning but I wanted to give you something before we left," Harald said as he stopped in front of him, releasing one of the horses to offer (Y/N) his hand. (Y/N)'s brows furrowed and he pushed himself off the ground, ignoring Harald's still outstretched hand. Harald let it drop to his side.

"What is it?"

"It's a long walk from Kent to London," Harald told him, nodding to the sturdy brown mare beside him. White and gray fur had been draped over her back, her black mane swaying with the soft breeze. (Y/N) remained silent, eyes flickering between her and Harald as his brows furrowed further. 

"Have you ridden a horse before?" Harald questioned, offering him the reins to the mare. Hesitantly, he took the reins from him and carefully pulled the mare toward him. The mare huffed softly and leaned her face toward his, bringing a chuckle out of the Greenlander as he leaned his head away from her to escape her curious sniffing. A small smile broke out on Harald's face as he watched them.

Gently tugging the reins and pulling the mare's face away from him, (Y/N) nodded, bringing a hand to gently stroke her white and brown snout. "Of course, I've ridden before." 

"Good. You can have her." Harald offered, causing (Y/N)'s widened eyes to snap in his direction. "See it as an apology for offending you earlier."

"But-"

"I'll see you in the morning, (Y/N)." Harald smiled again, tugging on the reins of his own horse and pulling him along as he headed back, leaving the Greenlander to stare after him.

                    ➸        ➸       ➸       ➸       ➸       ➸

Feeding sticks into the fire, (Y/N) listened to it crackle loudly, the embers floating high toward the sky. Liv sat beside him on the log, warming her hands and preparing herself for a chilly night as she quietly spoke to Leif. The other Greenlanders prepared their camping spot, draping furs over propped-up logs. Skarde held the mare's reins, gently stroking her snout. 

"We should name her," Skarde proposed, turning his head toward them with a smile. 

"You shouldn't get attached, Skarde. We'll likely never see her again after the war." Liv warned, the light from the flame illuminating her peach-colored skin and green eyes. "Besides, she belongs to (Y/N)." 

"Name her if you want." (Y/N) muttered, shrugging his shoulders. The sound of crunching leaves and twigs made him look away from the fire, noticing Harald growing closer to them. The prince stared at Skarde and the mare, lips twitching as he held back an amused grin at his fascination for the horse. Clearing his throat, he looked down at (Y/N).

"Scouts will be sent out through the marsh and Jarl Olaf wishes for you two to lead the party," Harald explained, shifting his gaze onto Leif.

"Us?" Leif stood up, lifting his brows in surprise and glancing down at his brother.

"We need to know the enemy's strength around the bridge. It is an honor to lead such a mission." Harald continued as the Greenlanders exchanged perplexed and suspicious glances. Jarl Olaf had made his distaste for them clear and he appeared to dislike the brothers even more for their role in the murder of his friend.

"If it is such an honor, why didn't your brother pick you?" Njal questioned, stepping away from the tent to walk closer to Harald as (Y/N) stood up and dusted himself off. Ulf hummed, nudging Njal with his elbow.

"Maybe he thinks Greenland is a swamp?" Ulf and Njal shared a loud laugh. But Liv appeared far from amused as she stood up and faced Leif.

"Or maybe he wants you two dead." She chimed in, making the two men stop, their smiles dropping at her worried words.

Nodding and looking at Harald, (Y/N) spoke, "Your brother seemed far from pleased with the outcome of the trial, and sending us to our deaths would be justice enough for him, would it not?"

"Perhaps," Harald nodded. "But I will be going as well." He added softly. Leif sighed, retrieving his axe from the ground and walking past his friends to stand beside his brother. He glanced at his brother, giving him a nod.

"We came to repay a debt. We'll do what is ordered." Leif stated. (Y/N) pursed his lips and sighed, nodding to show his compliance. Njal and the other Greenlanders looked at each other before looking back at their trusted friends.

"Then we will be with you," Njal spoke, lifting his axe and being quickly followed by Ulf. Skarde took a moment to tie the horse before joining their small group with a dorky smile. And with some hesitance, Liv stepped in to join them as well. Harald nodded, turning around and leading them through the camp. Meeting up with the other members of the scouting party, everyone prepared for the trek through the marsh before setting off in its direction.

The marches expanded far toward the horizon, the trill of insects and squishing of damp dirt filling the air, with some occasional groans and curses when someone got their foot stuck in the mud. (Y/N) found himself missing the ocean as they continued walking, finding the mushy ground unbearable to deal with. At least on a boat, they could rest and the water would keep them clean. Swatting away at a fly buzzing near his ear, (Y/N) grunted softly and received an amused grin from his brother. Up ahead, a man walked toward them with a bag slung over his shoulder.

"Who is he?" Njal asked but Harald glanced back at them reassuringly.

"Our guide. He's local. Don't worry, his mother was a Dane murdered on Saint Brice's Day." Harald told them, turning to shake the man's hand. The guide handed him a bag and Harald reached in, pulling out a torch.

"Why do we need them?" Leif asked, taking the bag from Harald and retrieving a torch for himself. (Y/N) picked one out, handing the bag off to the others for them to do the same.

"The tide and fog are coming in. You will need them to see the path." The guide explained, urging them forward with a nod. He began leading them off the path and through the tall grass, pushing it away and pressing down on the ground with his feet to form a walkable trail. Despite the local's frail appearance, something about him made (Y/N) feel queasy.

But his words proved to be true as night fell and a fog rolled in, keeping the moonlight from illuminating their way. The torches were quickly lit and held high to provide enough light for them to see ahead. Leif began to eye their guide and when he looked at his brother, he knew (Y/N) shared similar suspicions. 

"How close are we?" Leif asked and the guide paused to look back at him. With everyone stopping behind him, (Y/N) could hear the insects more clearly. And something else sloshing about in the water at their side.

"You'll know you're near the bridge when you can hell the bells of London." The guide answered and began walking again.

"We're not alone." (Y/N) whispered, grabbing his brother's arm. Leif stood still, holding his breath, eyes widening when he heard the sloshing as well. The guide turned to face them but before he could speak, arrows pierced his chest and stomach. 

"Get down!" Leif hollered. "It's a trap!" 

Dropping down on his hunches, (Y/N) heard the grunt and gurgle of someone behind them getting hit. Harald lifted his shield, blocking some arrows as he ducked down beside them. Ordering everyone to get rid of their torches, Harald tossed his before yanking (Y/N)'s from his grip and tossing it as well. The grass around them caught fire, revealing the archers on small boats floating in the water beside their path. The sound of arrows being shot echoed through the night air and someone else grunted. 

"Ulf!" Liv's scream made (Y/N)'s blood run cold and he leaned forward to look around Leif, a shakey exhale escaping him when he spotted his dear friend with an arrow through his neck. Throwing his axe through the air, Leif hit one of the Saxons before charging forward and knocking another one off the boat and into the water.

Crawling through the flattened grass and mud-covered ground, (Y/N) reached Ulf and gently cradled his face in his hands. Liv sobbed, attempting to hold her trembling hands over his blood-soaked neck but the damage had been done. Ulf stared up at them with wide eyes, weakly attempting to speak but choking on his own blood and spitting out droplets that splattered on (Y/N) and Liv's faces.

"Fall back!" Harald ordered and Skarde scrambled toward them, wrapping his arms around Liv's waist. 

"We have to leave him!" Skarde urged, attempting to pull her away but she refused, wildly kicking around and crying until Njal reached them and used his bigger frame to heave her up and take her back to safety. (Y/N) felt his eyes water, lips trembling as he stared down at Ulf. 

"(Y/N), come on!" Skarde shouted, ducking when an arrow whizzed past his head and quickly following after Njal and Liv.

"I'm so sorry, Ulf. I'm sorry." (Y/N) whispered, placing his hands on each side of Ulf's face and slightly lifting his head. In one quick motion, he heard a sickening crack and Ulf went limp in his hands, eyes going blank and staring up at the night sky. Sniffling softly, he lifted his head and looked toward the water, searching for his brother in the midst of the chaos. When he couldn't spot him, more panic shot through him and he quickly stumbled to his feet.

"Leif?!"

"Come on!" Harald wrapped his arm around his waist, pulling him away from the water and the soldiers. 

"Where's my brother?! Harald!" (Y/N) shouted and squirmed but the prince refused to let him go, dragging him through the grass despite his kicking and shouting. Even when (Y/N) broke free, Harald caught him again and tightened his grip until they stumbled out of the marsh with the others. Roughly pulling his arm out of Harald's hold, only Liv's sobbing kept him from going back into the marshes in search of Leif. (Y/N) panted softly and wrapped his sore arms around the brunette, letting her lean against him as they returned to camp and away from the marsh.

By the time they reached camp, the sun had risen and Harald had made a beeline toward the main tent, fury rolling off him in waves. The remaining Greenlanders staggered toward their tent as reality set in. They had lost two of their own. They'd have to reunite with the others in Kattegat and inform them of Ulf's death. They'd have to return home to Ulf's family and explain why he couldn't be with them. Njal slumped down on the log, blankly staring forward as Liv wiped her tear-stained cheeks. 

"Leif is strong." She mumbled hoarsely, slowly lowering down on one of the stools. "He'll... He'll find us." 

"Liv's right." Skarde nodded tiredly, sitting beside Njal and releasing a heavy sigh. He ran a hand through his dirty curls, eyes closing briefly.

"I'm not waiting around." (Y/N) muttered, looking down at his blood-stained hands. He could still vividly see the tears in Ulf's face, his pained whimpers, and the fear shown on his face. Death wasn't the end, they all knew that. But in the face of it could they truly feel at peace even as the cold gripped their bodies and they took their last breath? (Y/N) grimaced at the thought. 

"If he was alive, he'd be out." (Y/N) looked at Harald over his shoulders and narrowed his eyes. Harald walked toward him, letting his gaze drop to look over the other Greenlanders before looking back at (Y/N). "He wouldn't want you to risk your life for him. Stay here in camp where it is safe."

"Easy for you to say when it's not your brother's life at risk." (Y/N) sneered and walked forward, ignoring Harald's calls for him. He could hear the prince groan and say something to his friends but (Y/N) only quickened his pace. Pushing his way through camp, (Y/N) headed off in the direction of the marshes, determined to at least make an attempt, an effort. He couldn't sit around, not when Leif would do the same for him. 

(Y/N) made some distance between him and camp before he heard the sound of crunching and footsteps following him. He glanced back, expecting to see one of his friends but instead saw Harald and he huffed softly, shaking his head. The dark-haired prince caught up to him, narrowly tripping over his own feet in doing so but his hand successfully caught (Y/N)'s wrist. Before he could speak, (Y/N) whirled around and shoved him back, forcing the prince to release him and stumble backward. Catching himself, Harald blinked in surprise before scowling.

"What have I done to you for you to despise me so much? What more do I have to do for you to realize I mean you no harm? For you to trust me?"

"Why should I trust you? Because you believe yourself to be a hero? Because sooner or later you'll ask us to repay our debt to you? Why should I put my trust in a Christian? You surround yourself with men who've slaughtered their own people for who they choose to put faith in. You surround yourself with men like Gunnar. Men like your brother. Why should I believe you're any different from them? I was a child when one of your Christ-loving friends put a torch to my home and tried to kill me... I was a child, Harald." (Y/N)'s voice turned breathless, his eyes beginning to burn with fresh tears. The fire, the pain, the cries. A memory he relived in his nightmares.

Inhaling deeply, (Y/N) swiped his tongue over his dry lips and exhaled. "What is it that you want from us, Harald? Do you wish to convert us? Turn us away from the Gods that have cared for us? Or do you want Freydis-"

"I don't want Freydis, (Y/N)... I want your trust. I want you to be comfortable around me. I wish no harm upon you. You are... intriguing. And resilient and strong... and kind." Harald took slow steps forward, keeping his voice soft and gentle as he spoke. Once he stood in front of the Greenlander, he lifted his hand and reached toward his face, pausing when (Y/N) frowned. But when (Y/N) made no indication of moving, he gently brushed his fingers against (Y/N)'s cheek, wiping away some dirt and blood before pressing his palm against his skin. "I admire you. I admire your abilities and... I admire the way you care for your family and friends. Despite what you may say and do, I believe you'll watch my back in battle because I trust you. I only wish for you to trust me too... Because you are frightening and smart and..." Harald trailed off, his words dying on his tongue.

The way Harald stared at him made his skin burn. (Y/N) only knew to expect the worst from strangers, especially those with crosses. And yet, standing there before Harald and allowing him to be kind to him felt... right. The doubts in his mind remained but perhaps... he could ignore them for now. He could allow someone else in, even if he was a Christian. (Y/N) inhaled and tilted his head ever so slightly, pressing his cheek against Harald's palm. His touch was grounding and warm. It filled (Y/N) with a sense of comfort. Harald's features brightened at his movement and (Y/N)'s skin warmed even more.

"I didn't follow you out here to stop you from finding your brother. I followed you because we're going to do it together." Harald explained and allowed his hand to linger, as if afraid that when he pulled away, the moment would end.

"And why would you do that?" (Y/N) couldn't help but ask softly, feeling a longing sensation bubble in his chest when Harald lowered his hand.

"Because I won't abandon one of my own," Harald answered gently and smiled, taking a step back and motioning to the marshes. "We should get going."

They moved through the long grass as quietly as possible, keeping their footsteps light and quick, even as they got back on the path they'd taken the day before. The Saxons would likely patrol more frequently after the ambush, but with the fog still clinging onto the marsh, the two Vikings could slip by unnoticed. They came across their first two Saxons at the place of the ambush and parted ways, using the long grass to keep them hidden. (Y/N) remained close to the ground, his feet and legs growing heavy as more mud clung to him. But his eyes remained on the Saxon and when he turned his back, (Y/N) slipped his dagger out and moved forward with swiftness, clamping his hand around the man's mouth and cleanly slicing his throat. Behind him, he heard a grunt and looked over his shoulder, spotting the second Saxon falling limp onto the ground. His attention didn't linger on him for long.

"Leif..." His brother was alive. Dazed and bruised but alive. (Y/N) didn't think twice about rushing over to him and dropping down to his knees, hands gently cradling Leif's dirt-covered face. Leif cringed and groaned softly, lifting a hand to the back of his head and rubbing it with a wince. And despite his pain, he smiled weakly at the sight of his brother.

"I thought I died." He grunted, holding onto his brother's arms as (Y/N) helped him onto his feet. Leif heaved softly, eyes squinted from the pain in his head. (Y/N) rubbed his thumb back and forth over Leif's arm, searching him over for any other injuries. When he found nothing other than bruises, he sighed in relief. 

"But you didn't. The Gods must have a plan for you." Harald grinned, patting Leif's arm before he turned his sights onto one of the small boats still floating in the water. (Y/N) couldn't help but frown at the way his grin widened. Trudging into the water and gripping the side of the rowboat, Harald inspected it and hummed to himself. 

"You've got a plan?" Leif asked, letting go of his brother and watching the prince push the boat closer to land.

"We're going to find out about the bridge. One way or another." Harald said and climbed onto the boat, motioning for the brothers to do the same as he reached for a floating spear. Leif sighed and stepped forward, getting on the boat and waiting for (Y/N) to do the same before sitting down. Once they were situated, Harald began rowing through the river, seeming to have a general understanding of where they needed to go. Leif stared forward, keeping an eye out for them.

"How many did we lose?"

"Six."

"Including Ulf." (Y/N) muttered, staring down at the ripples in the water. Leif remained silent, bowing his head and inhaling deeply.

"Canute thinks the Saxons are daring us to attack London from the south," Harald told them, hoping a change of topic would keep their minds off their departed friend for the moment.

"And what do you think?"

"I don't know. But I want to find out." Harald murmured, lifting the spear from the water and staring up ahead at a small dock with Saxon guards stationed at it. Leif reached toward the grasses beside them, tugging on them to pull the boat closer to land. Harald quickly stepped off the boat and kept low, extending an arm toward (Y/N) and helping him climb onto the land without making a disturbance. People walked alongside the river, appearing to be heading somewhere in search of shelter and supplies. Harald reached up to his hair and undid his buns, shaking his head and running his fingers through it. The three climbed up the bank and slipped into the crowd of people, casually following along with them. 

The road and people led them right where they needed to go. The bridge leading to London. Soldiers stood before the entrance, handing out food and supplies to those who asked for it. Others continued forward onto the bridge, likely searching for a place to stay until the war ended. (Y/N) slowed down as a woman approached them with a basket full of vegetables. She tilted her head at them, eyeing Leif specifically before speaking in a language (Y/N) could hardly understand. But he caught a couple of words when Harald spoke back to her. Friend, Vikings, children, and wife. (Y/N) dug his teeth into his bottom lip, watching the woman buy into whatever Harald had told her. She frowned at them and made a cross before offering them both a vegetable. (Y/N) took the large carrot she offered him and nodded in thanks before following Harald toward the bridge.

"You told her we were attacked by Vikings?" (Y/N) questioned with raised brows, lips pulling into an amused smile.

"You understand Old English?"

"Some words. Mother taught me what she knew." (Y/N) shrugged lightly, the sound of their footsteps amplifying as they stepped onto the wooden bridge with the wave of Saxons. (Y/N) handed the carrot off to an elderly man and observed the bridge, searching for anything that appeared like a weak spot. It seemed well-built and sturdy despite its age. 

"Stop right there!" A guard called, lifting his shield and approaching them. (Y/N)'s heart skipped a beat but the guard only merely looked at them before turning his head and calling out, "Lift!" 

Part of the bridge began to rise, allowing for a boat to pass through the river and exposing part of the underside of the bridge. Leif took a small step forward, closely looking over the support beams holding the bridge up. (Y/N) watched him, practically seeing the gears turning in his head. Leif turned to look at them, lips quirking up into a smile. 

"I've got a plan."

#x reader #x you #x y/n #x male reader #vikings valhalla x you #vikings valhalla x male reader #vikings valhalla #vikings #vikings valhalla x reader #vikings valhalla x y/n #harald sigurdsson x reader #harald sigurdsson x y/n #harald sigurdsson x you #harald sigurdsson x male reader #harald sigurdsson

[bumblesimagines]

Under The Moonlight

Part 12

Request: Yes or No

~~~

Part of (Y/N) wanted to go leave right then and there. Head out of Novgorod, find a boat, and sail back to Greenland and into the warm embrace of home. But he couldn't bring himself to do it. Partly because he wasn't nearly as good a captain as Leif. His brother knew all the cues, all the signs. He could sail across open ocean for days and still be confident he was going in the right direction even when all that surrounded him was water. It was expected of Leif. He'd been a natural since the day he stepped on a boat and took an oar in his hands. (Y/N) could row and follow directions, but sailing alone or with a crew of strangers? He'd rather face Jarl Kåre. 

(Y/N) couldn't deny the other reason his feet refused to guide him beyond the walls of Novgorod. Harald Sigurdsson. That damned charming prince. Harald was a fool, (Y/N) knew that. He was a gorgeous stubborn fool who dreamt of things beyond his reach. A fool who liked having his arms around (Y/N). A fool who'd giggle sheepishly when he told tales of his childhood in Norway. A smug fool who considered his sword another limb, swinging it around effortlessly. A smooth-talker who charmed anyone who came across him. While (Y/N) enjoyed the flirting and attention from Harald, he enjoyed the vulnerable moments. The moments when Harald would talk about his family, his brothers. The murmurs of his fears still swam around (Y/N)'s mind, and as much as he wanted to hate Harald, he couldn't. Harald Sigurdsson was a fool. But he was (Y/N)'s fool.

Staring forward at Harald, he watched the brunette heave his furs onto his new ship. Harald tied them down to the floor of the ship. His brows were slightly furrowed, forming wrinkles between them. His lips were curved downward and his eyes focused on the rope, experienced hands forming knots in the rope to keep the furs from skittering away. His movements would occasionally slow and his eyes would drift away from the furs and ropes, a sign that his thoughts had taken his attention away from the task at hand. But then he'd snap back and move quicker, more efficiently. 

"How are you and Harald?" 

"Gods, Leif!" (Y/N) flinched at the sound of his brother's voice right by his ear, snapping his head around to scowl at him. Leif snickered quietly at his reaction, rubbing the tip of his red nose with his hand to hide his amusement. (Y/N) noted how different Leif looked. He appeared more... alive. Less like a shell of a man walking around. His mind went back to the Opium, but Leif looked nothing like the sluggish men from the building. Licking his drying lips, (Y/N) forced away the possibility and shrugged at his question as they began to walk toward the boat.

"Things are..."

"Complicated?"

"Yes." (Y/N) tilted his head back to look over the ship. A light layer of ice covered the exterior, causing the wood to have a grayish color to it. The golden accents painted along the wood had begun to chip and fade, making the paint look pale rather than eye-catching. What were most likely once perfectly round circles, the holes where the oars went now took on different shapes. Like the other boats lined up, it sat on sleds meant to drag it along the ice until it made contact with water. The ladder, which Leif had decided to climb on, shook lightly with each movement. (Y/N) grimaced, setting his foot on the first step and listening to it groan beneath him. He had little faith in the rickety old thing.

"I hope you didn't spend all your money on this whale," Leif called out to Harald, hopping down from the ledge and inspecting the boat more closely. He tapped his foot on the wooden boards beneath him, checking for stability and rotten wood. Surprisingly, all the boards seemed sturdy enough. At least nobody would be getting their foot stuck in a hole.

"Don't insult my ship," Harald grunted, his breath visible from the temperature. He turned around and dusted off his gloves, pausing briefly when he noticed (Y/N) climbing onto the ship. The Greenlander averted his eyes, pretending to inspect the ship with his brother despite his known minimal knowledge. Frowning, Harald turned back around to tie down more furs. "I've grown attached to it."

"I can't lie about boats," Leif replied, placing his hands on his hips and turning to look at the prince once satisfied with the condition of the ship.

"And I have no patience for pessimists," Harald responded bitterly, glancing over his shoulder at (Y/N). Leif lifted his eyebrows and looked toward his brother, lifting his leg to lightly kick (Y/N)'s calve and nod toward Harald. Scoffing softly, the younger man crossed his arms over his chest and finally looked at the prince.

"Harald, we aren't here to convince you this quest is hopeless. We came to Novgorod to help you. Leif is ready to captain this ship wherever you want and I am here for whatever you need. We're not gonna let you do this alone because we care about you. But, if you do not want us here-"

"I do," Harald murmured, hands releasing the rope with a defeated sigh and head turning to look at them. "I do want you here. Both of you."

"Good." Leif smiled and Harald mustered a smile of his own in return. "Then, I need to know your plan."

"If we can make it to the Rus before the thaw, we can use the high water from the ice melt to carry us through the shallower rapids, avoiding the need to portage and the Pechenegs," Harald explained, his previous bitterness slipping away with the wind. With Leif's approval of his plan, Harald grinned widely and stood straighter.

"What about the crew? You know anyone desperate enough to join us?"

"I might," Harald smirked, motioning for them to follow him with a shake of his hand. He led the brothers off the boat and out of Novgorod to a small forested area near the mountains. He kept the information about the location vague, only grinning back at them when they asked who they were looking for. It took them a couple minutes before they spotted the two men. Kaysan and his partner.

Sliding his sword out of its sheath, Harald quietly walked forward. (Y/N) and Leif exchanged looks and got their weapons out as well, approaching the small camp from the side. The two were a far cry from their former selves in the tent. They almost appeared small, like frightened curled-up children. Harald seemed satisfied with their lack of riches, letting his boots crunch loudly against the snow to alert them.

"Too dangerous in Novgorod for you?" He called and the men scrambled to their feet. Kaysan reached for his weapon but the sight of Harald's sword made him hesitate. Instead, he lifted his hands and bowed his hand, glancing back at his fearful friend. Any arrogance or confidence had been cleanly wiped away when Leif had killed their other fighter. The men who stood before them were their true selves. Two con men who fled when consequences looked them in the eye.

"If you're here for your money, we do not have it." 

"I didn't come for your money," Harald revealed, lowering his blade. The two blinked at him in surprise. "I came to offer you both a job."

"Doing what?" Kaysan asked, eyes flickering over to the brothers and then down to their weapons.

"I'm taking a boat to Constantinople. I need men who can fight." Harald explained, watching as Kaysan looked back at his friend with a frown but he still searched his face for an answer. His friend shook his head lightly, glancing between the three men.

"That is not an easy journey."

"No one said it would be easy. But you'll be well-paid when we get there."

"And the Pechenegs? I mean, we were lucky to get past them once. I don't want to trust luck again." At his friend's words, Kaysan nodded in agreement and Harald hummed, looking back at the brothers and quirking a brow.

"Then I suggest you go back to Novgorod where your odds of success are... much better." Bait and lure. A favorite tactic of Harald's, and one that worked like a charm each and every time. The two men immediately tensed up, widened eyes glancing at each other before Kaysan stepped forward right as Harald went to turn around.

"Wait!" He called, swallowing thickly and giving a small nod. "We'll join you." 

Smirking, Harald shook hands with the two men. "What are your names?"

"I'm Kaysan. This is Batu." Kaysan nodded back to his friend. Batu seemed more hesitant to fight, given the fact he had instinctively ducked behind Kaysan and Kaysan had protectively moved in front of him when they had first appeared. Under a different light, both men seemed kinder. Less threatening. More human.

"Do you have a guide? Someone who knows the rivers?" Batu questioned, eyes squinting slightly as he looked between them.

"No. Do you know of one?"

Nodding, Batu spoke, "There is such a man in Novgorod. Supposedly, he knows the Dnieper better than anyone else. However, there's one issue... this man is imprisoned."

                    ➸        ➸       ➸       ➸       ➸       ➸

Early the next morning, Harald had returned from Novgorod's jails with their new guide. A Pecheneg. A blind Pecheneg. Harald introduced him as Kurya and explained Kurya had memorized the route of the river prior to losing his sight. Kaysan had immediately pulled Harald aside to voice his concerns, leaving (Y/N) to watch the man. Kurya was tall, lanky, and skinny from his time in the jails. He had light tan skin, a short black beard, and thick hair tightly pulled back into a bun. He wore a single piece of cloth around his eyes, hiding them from the world. But the scars peeking out were noticeable enough. He delicately placed his hands over the side of the boat, feeling it for a reason (Y/N) didn't quite know. Maybe checking to make sure the boat was in fine enough condition to sail through the river.

"The Pechenegs did this to me." Kaysan hissed at Harald, pointing up to the scar running over his eye. 

"I'm sure whatever 'this' is, is bad. But I cannot see how bad it is because the Pechenegs did this to me." Kurya pulled his hands away from the boat and faced the men, raising his hands to his face and flipping the cloth up so they could look at his eyes, or rather lack of. (Y/N) cringed at the sight and Kaysan exhaled softly, staring at the scars until Kurya covered them up again. "I am not your enemy. That I know my people well is a good thing." With that, he returned to touching the boat and Kaysan pursed his lips, accepting defeat and stepping away. 

"Let me know when you wish to get on the boat." (Y/N) told the guide and Kurya paused his movements, palms hovering over the cold wood. 

"I will. Thank you." He spoke softly. (Y/N) felt his lips quirk. Something about Kurya felt genuine, safe even. But (Y/N) didn't have time to dwell on his thoughts or chat with Kurya, seeing as Harald walked away to greet a man. He'd been one of the guests at Yaroslav's dinner and (Y/N) had seen him briefly speak with Harald. Lord Vitomir, he presumed. Lord Vitomir was a stout man with a short beard and even shorter black hair. His clothes were fine, almost as equally expensive as Yaroslav's and he carried himself with an aura of importance. Beside him stood a servant carrying his chest of belongings. The servant appeared to be a young man covered in a slight sheen of dirt. The gray and brown on his face made his bright blue eyes stand out clearly. He was short and seemed slim, although his large clothes hid his structure. 

The two didn't hold (Y/N)'s attention for long, not when his brother approached them with a woman in tow. He carried a chest of her belongings, a sight that made (Y/N) grin. He recognized the woman as the lady who had been sitting beside Leif at the dinner. She had long wavy raven hair and a pale complexion with eyes as dark as coal yet as warm as the sun. She wore a long dark blue dress with a yellow cloak. She looked at everything curiously, as if everything were interesting to her. 

"Who is this?" Harald questioned Leif as Lord Vitomir and his servant got on the boat. 

"She's Mariam. Mariam, this is Harald and (Y/N), my brother." Leif introduced her. Mariam smiled sweetly at them and greeted them softly. She turned toward (Y/N), eyes brightened with glee and she reached out to gently touch his arm, her smile only growing.

"I've heard much about you, (Y/N). I cannot wait to get to know you." She cooed and Leif chuckled sheepishly, the tips of his ears turning even redder. (Y/N) felt himself relax around Mariam. She appeared genuine in her kindness. Rubbing (Y/N)'s arm, she smiled back at Leif and slipped past them, heading up the small ramp and onto the boat itself. Harald stared after her with furrowed brows before he snorted softly and looked back at Leif.

"This is the reason you're going to Constantinople?"

"It is a good reason."

"It better be. We need a strong crew if we're going to make it. Not frail women and their belongings." Harald scoffed, motioning to the chest of Mariam's things. Leif brushed him off with a shrug and climbed onto the ramp, earning another scoff from the prince. He suddenly tensed when (Y/N) stepped toward him, gazing into eyes he knew all too well.

"Freydis would've put a sword through you for saying that." (Y/N) murmured, giving him one last look before returning to Kurya and helping him onto the boat. Kurya quietly thanked him, feeling the edges of the boat and presumably continuing his inspection of the size and strength.

"We're cold!" A muffled frail voice called from the storage space and (Y/N) winced at the sound of it.

"Silence! We're all cold!" The last member of their crew hissed. Gestr was a slimy older man with gray hair and an equally graying beard. He'd been the original owner of the ship and the man Harald had convinced on letting them sail with him. However, apart from being a rather nasty and leering man, Gestr also happened to be a slaver. A job none of them liked but had to deal with if they wished to get to Constantinople. 

Once Harald bid his uncle farewell, he hollered for Batu and Kaysan. Batu sat at the front of the boat, holding reins attached to the horses below. Strong bulky horses bred exactly for pulling on sleds. Kaysan encouraged the horses forward, jogging alongside them. The boat slid across the ice, taking them further and further away from Novgorod until they got onto the frozen river that went on through a forest. Kaysan remained with the horses, ensuring they kept pushing forward and making sure they were alright. Batu held onto the reins, listening and waiting for instructions from Harald. They continued on for hours until the horses tired and they pulled off to the side of the river, collecting furs and tarps to set up camp. 

(Y/N) tossed down sticks beside Kaysan, watching him attempt to start a fire. The sound of Gestr shouting orders made him look toward the boat. He spotted three women. The women from the storage space. Gestr's slaves. (Y/N) frowned, looking back at Harald but Harald only shook his head and continued setting up camp. 

"No!" One of the women suddenly screamed, rushing forward and shoving Gestr out of the way. She ducked down out of view only to be forced back on her feet by Gestr and pulled back. "Orlaith! No, please, Orlaith!" She screamed and sobbed, looking down at somebody out of sight from him. She continued to cry and sob and (Y/N) soon spotted why. Gestr bent over and when he straightened up, he had a body in his arms. A small woman from the looks of it.

"They're his cargo."

"One of them is dead, Harald." 

"I know. But we need the boat." Harald lifted a gloved hand and it hovered over (Y/N)'s shoulder. Pressing his lips together, Harald dropped his hand to his side and turned, walking away to check on Lord Vitomir and his servant. (Y/N) watched him walk away and sighed, crouching down by Kaysan and blowing on the fire when he finally got it started. He tried ignoring the way Gestr struggled to get the body down from the boat and nearly cringed when he heard the thud of it hitting the ground. Gestr's slaves climbed down the ladder, huddling together and waddling after him as he carried the body some distance away. Using an axe, he made a hole in the ice and then dumped the body into the water underneath. 

"He's a cruel man," Kaysan muttered, standing up and taking the stools Leif handed him. 

Once they set up a pot over the fire, Mariam began making them stew while she spoke to Leif about books. (Y/N) had heard of books in passing and how they held information. But when he peeked over his brother's shoulder, he only saw oddly shaped runes put on the page with ink. Some runes were different from others. Mathematics, Mariam had said, excitedly pointing to them. A completely different language from the ones (Y/N) already knew of. Leif seemed keen on learning everything Mariam offered to teach him. 

Once the stew had been cooked and bowls had been passed around, Gestr allowed his slaves to sit with them and eat. Their names were Brigtoc, Cadlin, and Dorn. While the three women looked strikingly similar with their red hair, pale complexions, and blue eyes, Brigtoc wasn't related to Cadlin and Dorn. It was notable in the features that differentiated them from one another. Cadlin was the tallest of the three and her hair was a darker shade of red. She appeared to be the eldest out of the three of them. The youngest of the three was made obvious by her soft features. Dorn's cheeks were fuller, her nose was smaller and similar in shape to Cadlin's, and her eyes were softer. She stuck to Cadlin's side like glue, keeping her head down and avoiding eye contact with the others. While Brigtoc had the strongest features out of all of them, with a sharp jawline, a longer nose, and a gruffer voice. 

"It's a pity." Gestr voiced, slurping on his stew. "Two sisters would've fetched a lot of money." Brigtoc glared at him, her fingers grazing against the chain linking her shackles together. Cadlin and Dorn glanced at her pitifully.

"We should say a prayer." Lord Vitomir's servant suggested and Lord Vitomir placed a hand over his shoulder disapprovingly. The servant's voice, (Y/N) noted, was higher in pitch than he had expected. 

"It is a proper suggestion." Mariam nodded and Lord Vitomir retracted his hand. Turning her head to look at the sisters beside her, Mariam offered them a supportive smile, gazing over each of them before she settled on Dorn. "You should offer it."

Dorn peered up at her, glancing at Cadlin who nodded. She straightened her back and cleared her throat, fidgeting with her hands as she spoke. "Oh, Father in heaven. Be with your daughter, Orlaith, as she journeys to your holy land. And be with her sister, Brigtoc, in her grief. Amen." 

(Y/N) listened to the chorus of amens that followed, swirling his spoon in the remains of his stew. He brought the bowl to his lips and finished the rest of it before standing up and handing his bowl over to Batu when he began collecting the empty bowls. (Y/N) wiped his lips with the sleeve of his coat and walked toward where Leif had set up his sleeping area alongside Mariam's. (Y/N) chuckled softly, looking over his shoulder at the two. Leif pulled a fur blanket over her shoulders and she beamed at him, taking his hand into hers and thanking him. Then, she pulled back and covered her mouth, coughing softly. Mariam had spent most of the trip coughing, a sign of illness. But the cough sounded all too familiar to one he heard when he visited villages on occasion. A cough that killed its victims within months. Leif knew about it. He stared at Mariam in both awe and sadness. 

"Will he be able to handle another loss?" Harald asked as he approached, glancing at the two. 

"I believe it's better to know when someone will die rather than have them taken from you suddenly." (Y/N) said, draping a blanket over the snow. The sky began to mix with different colors, signaling nighttime would be upon them soon. If daytime was cold, nighttime would be freezing. 

"You should build a fire tonight. I can fetch you some furs if you'd like-"

"Harald," (Y/N) sighed, holding onto a pillow and turning to look at the prince.  "Thank you for your concern. But I am from Greenland. I know how to survive a cold night." 

"(Y/N), I..." Harald trailed off, his eyes drifting away from him. There was a heavy sense of longing between them. Unspoken words they wished to utter but kept inside. Harald lifted his head and forced a smile, clearing his throat and shaking his head. "Forget about it." He breathed and turned around, leaving (Y/N) to stare after him.

#x reader #x you #x y/n #x male reader #vikings valhalla x male reader #vikings valhalla x you #vikings valhalla #vikings #Vikings valhalla x reader #harald sigurdsson x reader #harald sigurdsson x male reader #harald sigurdsson x you #harald sigurdsson #harald sigurdsson x y/n #leif Eriksson #valhalla kaysan #valhalla batu #valhalla dorn #valhalla cadlin #valhalla brigtoc #lord vitomir

[bumblesimagines]

Under The Moonlight

Part 5

Request: Yes or No

~~~

Carefully setting the body down on the boat, (Y/N) reached out to delicately place his hand over Skarde's cold cheek. The bodies had turned a sickly white with cracked lips and darkening nails. They no longer had soft, warm skin kissed by the sun from all their days working outside. (Y/N)'s teeth dug down onto his bottom lip, sharply inhaling and tearing his eyes away before the tears could overwhelm him again. His brother looked at him sadly and he picked up their friends' weapons before stepping closer to the boat. Leif held onto them, staring down at the corpses. His jaw tensed and relaxed, eyes looking over each detail of their faces, details he hadn't noticed prior. Details he should've noticed before their hearts were pieced and their lungs filled with water. 

"Leif..." (Y/N) called out softly and Leif cleared his throat, blinking a few times and setting the weapons down at the sides of the bodies. (Y/N) picked up the grass Leif had cut down moments prior and began setting them over the bodies, covering them and ensuring they wouldn't fall off the boat. Leif retrieved a torch next, lighting it and setting it on the boat before pushing it further into the river.

"Goodbye, my friends... You've come so far for us." Leif muttered. Dark smoke began to rise rapidly into the air as flames engulfed the small boat.

"May you sleep in the embrace of Ran and be reunited with your departed loved ones." (Y/N) recited faintly, words he had been taught as a child. Words he never expected to utter for his dear friends. "We'll miss you and look forward to seeing you again... in Valhalla." 

Leif breathed in the cold air and gazed upon the burning boat, an arm reaching out to wrap around (Y/N)'s shoulders. "We must continue on... For the dead and for the living." He whispered comfortingly. 

"Liv needs you." (Y/N) cleared his throat, offering Leif a small smile and turning to trudge out of the water. Leif followed him shortly after and they made their way back to camp. Leif broke away from his brother to enter the healers' tent to check on Liv. She'd been speedily recovering from her injury and the healers had predicted she'd be up and walking in the coming days. With that in mind, (Y/N) headed toward their tent, head immediately turning toward the horse Harald had gifted him. She grazed on the grass around her, her long dark tail occasionally raising and brushing against her sides to swat away at buzzing insects.

"Skarde wanted to name you, didn't he?" (Y/N) hummed, wrapping his hands around her reins and looking into her dark brown eyes. She huffed softly at him and leaned her head towards him, snout rubbing against his chest as she sniffed and nipped at his clothes. (Y/N) chuckled at her curious nature and ran his hand over the white marking on her head. His eyes trailed down to her neck and then to her belly, noticing it'd grown in size over the course of a week. His lips quirked and he breathed another chuckle. "Seems like you'll be expecting a little one soon, love." He murmured gently, watching her drop her head down to the grass once more after losing interest in his clothes. 

"(Y/N) Eriksson?" Looking over his shoulder, (Y/N) eyed the three men staring at him. 

"What do you want?" He asked, voice coming off more coldly than intended. But if it bothered the men, they didn't show it.

"Come with us, it's an order."

"From who?"

"King Canute." The man narrowed his eyes, his thining patience apparent. Grinding his teeth together, (Y/N) released the reins on his horse and stepped toward them, hand coming to rest on the hilt of his dagger. The man who spoke led them through the camp, stopping briefly to enter the healers' tent and drag out Leif. His brother glared at the man, annoyance shifting to confusion when he spotted his brother.

"What is this about?"

"I know as much as you." (Y/N) responded with a sigh.

They were led to the entrance of the castle, past the moat and the tall walls meant to protect it. The castle appeared larger in person but still, it remained a prison in appearance. Within the walls, however, different colors added vibrancy to the castle in the form of paintings, vases, curtains, and rugs. Torches were lined up on the walls to provide light in places the windows didn't. The armor-clad Vikings looked wildly out of place in comparison to everything else with their chainmail and weapons. The brothers were taken into a large hall with three long tables in the center and a lone table towards the front where Harald, Jarl Olaf, King Edmund, and a man from Mercia sat at. The tables were lined with food and drinks that were quickly grabbed and taken by Vikings as they began to settle in. When the men turned, they were pointed toward the lone table. 

"The feast?" (Y/N) heard Leif ask as they approached the table but his eyes were trained on the necklace around Harald's neck being proudly displayed. The bear tooth. He sat down beside Leif, tearing his eyes away as a smile tugged at his lips and a fluttery feeling entered his stomach. But when he lifted his eyes and made eye contact with Jarl Olaf, his smile shifted into a frown and he scoffed. Jarl Olaf rolled his eyes at his reaction, muttering quietly under his breath. Cups of wine and empty plates were set down in front of the brothers but neither made any move to grab food or drink.

"Friends! We have won a great victory!" King Canute's voice echoed through the hall and he lifted a cup of ale, walking down between two of the tables. "Saint Brice's Day and the blood spilled of our kinfolk has been avenged!" Loud cheering erupted from the Vikings and they drummed their hands against the table. King Canute set his cup down and licked his lips, approaching the table the others were sitting at.

"And for you who have so faithfully supported me in this sacred mission, your payment has come." King Canute grinned widely, resting his hands on the top of a chair. The doors beside them opened and many men and women stepped out with chests of gold and coin. But despite the prospect of gold, none of the men sat at the table apart from Jarl Olaf looked thrilled. Harald glared holes at King Edmund and in turn, the young king avoided looking in his direction. The man from Mercia seemed annoyed and Leif still appeared confused. The wine had begun looking awfully tempting to (Y/N), especially as all eyes in the room turned to them.

"But let us not be ungenerous in victory. Young King Edmund was entitled to defend his father's honor and he did so with courage. Let us toast to his bravery." King Canute spoke again and the silence that followed couldn't have been louder. Reaching across, (Y/N) picked up his cup and leaned back, finally getting a closer look at the boy who sat across from him.

King Edmund looked like no king at all. He had a boyish face with short brown hair and bright eyes that darted around at any sudden movement. His figure appeared small compared to King Canute and while he tried to appear calm, the nervous fidgeting of his hands and the anxious bounce of his knee spoke for him. He remained clad in brown armor, a smart move considering the stares he had been receiving throughout the feast. Nevertheless, a child or not, he had attempted to defend his home and for that, (Y/N) drank from his wine in toast to him. 

"More importantly, let us recognize one whose battle plan almost defeated us all." King Canute continued and turned toward the doors, nodding to the men standing by them. They opened the doors and a woman called in, head held high and face stoic of emotion. "Queen Emma of Normandy."

Queen Emma was a tall and slender young woman with long brown hair pulled back into a bun and cold almost gray-looking eyes. She wore a black dress that covered most of her neck, a golden crown, and long earrings that brushed against her shoulders when she walked. Her presence alone demanded attention and respect. If King Canute's words were true, it meant Queen Emma was strategic and intelligent, but nothing else could've been expected from a Norman. Viking blood flowed through her veins.

(Y/N) couldn't help but notice the angered look Jarl Olaf gave Harald, a look the young prince returned with an equal amount of fury and betrayal. Queen Emma didn't appear affected by their presence as she took King Canute's hand and allowed him to lead her to the empty seat beside (Y/N). She regarded the Greenlander with a small nod before softly thanking King Canute. She leaned back in her seat and rested both her arms on the armrests, looking forward at the man from Mercia, the same kingdom that had turned its backs on London. He icily stared back at her.

"Before I honor my warlords with these spoils, there are some debts that must be settled. I ask you: what would you call a man who would put brotherhood before obedience to a king?" King Canute asked, circling the table and stopping across the brothers. "We would call him... a Greenlander! This is a man who dreamed of pulling down London Bridge. And he couldn't have done it without the support of his brother. Leif Eriksson, (Y/N) Eriksson.." King Canute eagerly encouraged them to rise as cheers erupted through the hall. "Your sister's debt is paid in full. What more would you ask of me? What lands? What spoils of war?" 

Relief washed over (Y/N) like a tidal wave. Freydis's life and freedom no longer hung over them. Meeting his brother's eyes, (Y/N) lightly shook his head so Leif turned back to King Canute and smiled thankfully. "We got what we came here for."

"Yes, you did. And more. May their names never be forgotten amongst our people... or thought of again as someone's sons." King Canute raised his brows at Leif and Leif's shoulders lowered, letting out a breath that he'd been holding in for years. (Y/N) sat back down in his seat, picking up his cup as he leaned back in his chair. King Canute's words played over and over in his head and he stared at his brother questioningly.

Moving onto the man beside them, King Canute stood beside the prince. "And Harald Sigurdsson. Leif's brave brother-in-arms who promised me victory, and delivered. My gratitude is worth more than gold."

"More than gold? Did you all hear that?" Harald called out playfully, earning laughter from the other Vikings. Tilting his head up to look at his friend, his smile faltered considerably and he spoke lowly. "I'll hold you to it." King Canute smirked at his words and nodded.

"And another debt," King Canute lifted his head, staring directly at the stranger sitting at their table. "Our honored guest from the North, the Ealdorman of Mercia, Eadric Streona, who will always have my gratitude for holding back his army. Although, I think he would prefer something more than gratitude. Speak, Eadric Streona." 

Eadric Streona was a tall muscular man clad in brown and gold, the colors of the Mercia flag. With long brown hair reaching down to his shoulders and piercing blue-green eyes, he had a youthful face and a scruffy beard. The way he had spent the feast studying each and every face at the table told (Y/N) he valued people based on their worth to him, based on how they could help him. And seeing as he turned his back on his allies, he was not a trustworthy individual. 

Eadric rose from his seat, flashing one forced smile before clasping his hands in front of him and looking around the table briefly. Addressing King Canute, he spoke with a deep voice. "Thank you, King Canute. What I ask of you is also my gift to you. When you and your great warriors return to Scandinavia, you will need an ally in these lands you can depend on for support. A ruler you can count on."

"Are you suggesting this role for yourself, Eadric Streona?" King Canute questioned with raised brows, a hint of mockery in his voice that Eadric failed to pick up on.

"I am." Eadric nodded, dropping his gaze onto Queen Emma before moving onto King Edmund. "You'd do worse than have a strong friend at your back, as opposed to an impetuous boy."

"Hmm... This... This is a gift. It is good to listen to a man who knows his own mind and has the courage to speak it." King Canute nodded and Eadric bowed his head before sitting back down. King Canute turned his gaze onto the last man right across from him. 

"And Jarl Olaf, bravest of the brave." Jarl Olaf had been quick to hop to his feet and bask in the praise. "Whose mighty ships rowed against the tides and pulled down the great bridge. Smile for once." King Canute chuckled. "We've had our differences, but tonight we are brothers in victory, and-" Retrieving one of the many chests, King Canute approached the stocky man and set it in his arms. "-no gift is too great for such a brother and friend." 

"See, this feast is not about old quarrels, but new beginnings!" King Canute paused briefly as Jarl Olaf went through the contents of the chest. Gold cups, gold jewelry, just about everything in gold. "But new beginnings cannot happen with a traitor in our midst." The doors swung open and one of his men rolled in a tree trunk. Perfect height and size to take someone's head clean off. Tensions rose as everyone stiffened and straightened up, sobering up within seconds as King Canute observed everyone. He turned and stopped the trunk from rolling too far with his foot, taking his axe. Turning back to the table, he smirked and began circling it.

"A person that brings with them the stench of betrayal and threat. Here, in the very room where Æthelred turned against his Viking ally, there is once more an oathbreaker among us. I can smell their ambition. I can smell... disloyalty. I can smell..." King Canute stopped in between Leif and Harald, staring daggers at Eadric. "Their greed." He hissed and Eadric was quickly surrounded and hurled out of his chair by King Canute's men.

"Stop! Stop! My men will kill you for this!" Eadric shouted frantically, squirming in a desperate attempt to break free.

"Your men are dead, and your army is surrounded."

"Why? Why are you doing this?" His arms and legs were held down and one Viking grabbed a handful of his hair, pinning his head firmly against the trunk. King Canute stepped toward him, placing the blade of his axe against the man's throat.

"Because, it is I, Eadric Streona, not you, who will be the next King of England!" Eadric only had seconds to scream before King Canute brought his axe down on him, slicing his head off his body. Jarl Olaf and Harald turned away as Eadrics head was raised for all to see but Queen Emma watched, her chest quickly rising and falling although her face emotionless. Couldn't be a proper Viking feast without bloodshed. (Y/N) grimaced at the sight and finished his wine in one big gulp.

"Did you say you intend to claim the throne of England?" Jarl Olaf questioned, a frown spreading across his lips.

"I did. And I will rule jointly with King Edmund." King Canute nodded, still holding his bloodied axe. Leaning forward, he stared Jarl Olaf down. "Is that a problem?"

"Yes." Jarl Olaf answered simply, rising from his seat and setting the chest down with a thud. "You just made raiding England that much harder." Jarl Olaf laughed heartily and picked up his cup, raising it up in the air. "To Canute! The first Viking King of England! An accomplishment not even Ragnor Lothbrok or Ivar the Boneless could claim!" 

Raising his axe in the air, King Canute nodded triumphantly as cheers and chants echoed through the hall. "Now, we feast!" He bellowed and stepped back, making a point of resting his axe against King Edmund's chair and taking his seat between the two royals. Leif softly cleared his throat and straightened up, getting some food for himself. (Y/N) did similarly, noticing Jarl Olaf leaning over and angrily whispering to Harald while trying to subtly motion to Queen Emma. Brotherly disputes. (Y/N) wondered if they were common with a brother like Jarl Olaf. 

"I must check on Liv after this," Leif said quietly, cutting the turkey meat and eating. 

"You should bring her food, just in case." (Y/N) leaned back in his seat, rolling the fork between his thumb and index finger. He stared at his brother, eventually drawing his attention.

"What?"

"Do you love her?" 

"What-"

"Liv," (Y/N) clarified, pushing himself up in his seat and leaning against the armrest. "Do you love Liv? You have not been able to sleep properly since she was hurt." 

"I..." Leif closed his mouth and sighed, eyes falling down onto the table. "I-I don't know. Maybe." 

"She'd be good for you." (Y/N) smiled. With Leif's attention constantly on his family, it was rare for him to form romantic connections with others. (Y/N) would be a fool to discourage him. "You deserve a good woman by your side." 

"And what about you?"

"Me?" (Y/N)'s brows furrowed. "What about me?"

"The necklace." Leif dropped his voice into a soft whisper, blue eyes flickering around the room in search of any nosy listeners. But everyone at the table appeared busy with conversation. "You've gotten closer to Harald, have you not? Does this mean you-"

"It means nothing, Leif. I am... making a friend. Nothing else." Leif's eyes flickered back to his and he tilted his head, a strand of wavy hair falling over his face. 

"Are you sure?"

"Yes, I'm sure. He's just a friend." (Y/N) affirmed, and with one last look, Leif returned to his meal.

After having their share of food and drinks, Leif did as he said he would and left to check on Liv. (Y/N) chose to linger and explore the castle, looking over the paintings hung on the walls. He'd seen only one up close before so to see many in just one place... It was marvelous. The castle held so many things, primarily things of beauty. Having grown up in a cottage in the wilderness, (Y/N) hadn't even seen a castle in his youth, let alone be inside one. All the halls looked the same at first glance but they each held something new, something unique. (Y/N) eventually found himself on a balcony overlooking the marsh. The moon shone brightly in the night, its reflection sparkling in the water. 

"The stars look better from up here, don't you think?"

(Y/N) hummed and tilted his head back to look at them. "They do."

"They seem to shine brighter in Ringerike. You should come with me sometime." Harald offered but his attention hadn't been on the stars. No, it had fully and completely been on the Viking standing beside him. The Greenlander chuckled softly under his breath, shaking his head and looking at the prince.

"Is Ringerike so boring that all you have to offer are stars?" (Y/N) asked and tilted his head, a teasing twinkle in his eyes. Harald smirked lazily and stepped closer to him, lifting his hand to press it against (Y/N)'s lower back. A chill shot up (Y/N)'s spine and he tried to repress the shudder that followed. Harald's thumb began to run circles around the clothes covering his skin.

"We've got many things to offer... My bedroom among them." Harald spoke lowly and (Y/N) couldn't help the breathy laugh that escaped him. His lungs seemed to squeeze out all the air from them and his skin warmed considerably when he noticed Harald inching closer and closer until his soft breath fanned against his face. (Y/N) swallowed, tongue darting out to wet his lips, an action that drew Harald's attention to them. The fluttery feeling from before returned when Harald pressed his lips against (Y/N).

Harald's kiss was oddly gentle for such a forward prince. He remained slow and sweet, testing how long (Y/N) would allow him in his space. But he couldn't help himself. A groan rumbled in his chest and Harald's arms snaked around (Y/N)'s, body pressing against his and pushing him toward the stone wall. Placing one hand on (Y/N)'s hip, he lightly dug his fingers into him while his other hand reached down to grab (Y/N)'s thigh and hoist it around his hip. The action drew a flustered noise from (Y/N) and he placed his hands on Harald's shoulders, tilting his head to break the kiss and catch his breath. The prince grunted softly and buried his face in (Y/N)'s neck, teeth brazenly dragging across his skin in search of more contact.

"You know there are women here... Who will gladly lay with you, Harald." (Y/N) panted softly, inhaling the smell of blood and wine clinging onto Harald. Of course, he had to kiss a Christian of all Vikings. A Christian with a royal title.

"I do not want them. I want you." Harald breathed and leaned back, lips brushing along (Y/N)'s jawline. "If you'll have me... If you want me." 

(Y/N) swallowed, fingers digging into the fabrics of Harald's shirt. His stomach twisted and turned with worry and want. Sleeping with a Christian man would surely put both their lives at risk. But for a single night, (Y/N) wanted to enjoy himself. And so he leaned in and whispered, "I do."

                    ➸        ➸       ➸       ➸       ➸       ➸

Exhaustion clung onto him like wet clothes, making his eyelids heavy as consciousness crept up his body. His brows furrowed from the lack of noise around him. The camp had a tendency to be loud with the sound of carts moving, horses walking, and Vikings strolling about. How could it be so oddly quiet? It was then he noticed he felt awfully comfortable. The ground he slept on typically felt card and made his muscles groan with soreness. His pillow felt softer and squishier than usual as well. Cracking open his eyes, he squinted and blinked away the blurriness until his vision adjusted. He was in a... room? Within the castle, perhaps? A confused sigh escaped him and then...

He felt the bed shift underneath weight. 

Any exhaustion left escaped him in an instant and he snapped his head to his right, realization setting in when he saw the Viking beside him. "Harald..." He breathed his name and Harald hummed, smiling at him sleepily. The prince raised a hand to his face, clumsily rubbing at his eyes as he yawned. His hair had been freed from the braids and buns he typically kept it in and the endeavors of the night had turned it messy and wild. (Y/N)'s eyes trailed down from his hair to his exposed chest to the ink covering Harald's arm. He could see Harald's exposed hips out of the corner of his eye but chose to ignore it. Harald would become insufferable if he caught him looking. Harald propped himself up onto his elbow and leaned down toward him, peppering his shoulder with fleeting kisses as his beard gently scraped against his skin. "I stayed the night?"

"From the looks of it." Harald gazed at him with warm brown eyes that began to twinkle with mischief. Shifting closer, Harald moved his kisses up from his shoulder to his neck and onto his jaw. And with a cheeky grin, he nipped (Y/N) and reeled back before (Y/N) could swipe at him. "But we mustn't sleep in. We're headin' back to Kattegat today."

"Fuck-" (Y/N) squeezed his eyes shut. "Leif... He must be looking for me." Groaning, (Y/N) pressed his forearm against Harald's collarbone and promptly pushed him back. Tossing the blanket aside and rising from the bed, he quickly collected his clothes and slipped them back on. The bed creaked when Harald stood from it, watching (Y/N) as he collected his pants and put them back on. (Y/N) paused for a moment, eyes searching the room until he found his dagger set aside on a chair. Picking it up, he hoisted it back around his hips and sighed heavily, the events of the previous night beginning to catch up to him. 

"Hey-" Harald's arm shot forward when (Y/N) made a beeline toward the door, catching him by the forearm and tugging him close. His arms firmly slipped around his waist and his lips formed a small pout. "Where in God's name are you going in such a hurry?"

"I'm going to find my brother, Harald. I need to help him pack and check on Liv." (Y/N) answered, feeling Harald's muscle flex against his clothed body.

"They can wait, (Y/N)," Harald murmured and pressed his lips against the back of his neck. (Y/N) reached up, pressing the bottom of his palm against Harald's forehead and effectively shoving his head back. Harald huffed childishly, keeping one hand planted firmly on (Y/N)'s hip while the other rubbed his forehead. "Why are you so eager to leave?"

"Why do you want me to stay?"

"Why do you constantly answer a question with another question?" Harald tilted his head, small crinkles forming near his eyes as a wide smile spread across his face. Dropping his hand from his forehead, he turned (Y/N) around and pulled him closer.

"Because it is in my nature." (Y/N) shrugged, hands coming up to rest on Harald's shoulders. He didn't mind being in Harald's arms, he realized. Being held by strong yet gentle arms felt... nice. Comforting even.

"I like that about you."

"You like everything about Greenlanders." (Y/N) felt his lips quirk. "Even their sisters."

"Ah, this is about Freydis, aye?"

"I want to see my brother, Harald." (Y/N)'s eyes briefly shut, forcing the image of Freydis and Harald out of his mind.

"And I want to see you again," Harald admitted softly. (Y/N) felt his body stiffen at Harald's words and he opened his eyes to look into Harald's soft chocolate-colored one. Harald leaned in, kissing him once more before pulling away to speak. "Please, let me see you again." He pleaded gently.

"Why? You can have anyone you want, Harald. You're a prince."

"And I want you."

#x reader #x you #x y/n #x male reader #vikings valhalla x you #vikings valhalla x male reader #vikings valhalla #vikings #vikings valhalla x reader #vikings valhalla x y/n #harald sigurdsson x y/n #harald sigurdsson x reader #harald sigurdsson x you #harald sigurdsson x male reader #harald sigurdsson #leif eriksson #king canute

[bumblesimagines]

Under The Moonlight

Part 14

Request: Yes or No

~~~

Mountains and forests stretched out on either side of the large lake, rich and covered in luscious green. Winter had begun releasing its vicious claws on the land. The days became warmer, the snow melted faster, and there were more sightings of animals. Spring would soon settle in nicely, providing relief from the freezing nights and numbing snow. A welcome season for them all. Especially with the prospect of fishing and plants blossoming. More food, more comfort. 

But while the first signs of spring had lifted everyone's moods, (Y/N) found himself thinking of something else. Of someone else. His sister. 

The last time he'd seen Freydis had been months ago when her belly became noticeable. He remembered how long it had taken for his younger brothers to be born, and if his line of thought was correct, it meant Freydis had likely had her child by now. He smiled at the thought of his sister being a mother. She'd always been a natural with children, but she'd never shown any interest in having her own. Though, there was always the knowledge that many mothers passed during childbirth. He could only pray to Freya that she had kept Freydis safe and strong during her labor. 

"It is beautiful out here." He turned his eyes away from the ripples in the dark water and onto the woman beside him. Eleana, the daughter of the late Lord Vitomir. After the passing of Lord Vitomir, Mariam explained that the man had his daughter pose as a boy to grant her safe passage to Constantinople. And seeing how Gestr eyed her now, he'd been right in doing so. Eleana kept to herself on most days, speaking either with (Y/N) or Mariam, occasionally with the other girls and Harald. But she primarily stuck to (Y/N). He couldn't tell if she merely trusted him more or clung to him since he'd been the first face she'd looked at after losing her father.

"It is... peaceful. But the quiet leaves you alone with your thoughts." (Y/N) said quietly and she nodded, her thumb running back and forth over a line in the wood. She sighed quietly and longingly looked back in the direction they came from. Before (Y/N) could attempt to provide some words of comfort, the boat jerked and shook lightly, a scraping sound coming from underneath them.

"We hit something!" Kaysan hollered and Leif tore himself from his spot beside Mariam, rushing to the front of the boat and peering over the side as Kaysan held the bobbling rudder. 

"The rudder is broken!" Leif called, briefly turning to look at Harald. "Lower the sail!" 

Doing as instructed, Harald and Batu got the sail lowered before watching Leif for any other instructions. Leif and Kaysan held the steering rudder together, directing the boat toward land so they could properly check the damages done. (Y/N) strode across the boat and picked up some rope, waiting for Kaysan to hop down onto the grass and put down wood in the dirt so he could toss the rope and get the boat tied safely. Once done, (Y/N) climbed over the ledge with Harald and Leif, landing on the grass with a soft thud. Leif and Harald stepped into the shallow water, picking up the small pieces of wood floating around. The others gathered around on the boat to watch the men.

"We need a metal band to hold it together," Leif explained, reaching into the cold water and checking the damages underneath the rudder.

"Can you fix it?" Harald asked, tossing the pieces of wood aside. 

"Without a forge, no." 

"There is one in Kodak." Kurya piped up. "It is a day by water, but reachable over the mountain in a few hours." 

"Leif, (Y/N), and I will go then." Harald spoke and helped Leif detach the broken rudder from the boat, carefully setting it on the grass and climbing back onto the bank. 

"Do they have a market? Perhaps we can all go." Eleana proposed as she toyed with the ends of her braid, her eyes occasionally flickering over to (Y/N). 

Shaking his head, Harald wiped his wet hands on his pants and looked back at the blonde. "No. You must watch the boat and be alert. It is dangerous on shore." He told her. Eleana frowned and sighed again, pushing herself off the side of the boat and disappearing out of view for a moment as Batu and Gestr got the platform set up so they could walk on and off the boat with ease. Eleana reappeared with a bow and a quiver full of arrows. She carefully walked down the platform and offered the bow to (Y/N).

"Be careful."

"I will." (Y/N) smiled reassuringly, slipping the bow over his shoulder and placing his hand on her shoulder to squeeze it gently. Harald stared at them with furrowed brows, exchanging a glance with Leif but the older Greenlander merely shrugged and climbed back on the boat to collect his axe.

(Y/N) nodded to Eleana once Harald and Leif were ready before turning around to begin their trek through the forest and over the mountain. Birds chirped and fluttered around, flying into their nests where softer squeaks and chirps could be heard. They'd hear the occasional rustle of an animal moving through the brush and the distant sound of animal calls. Noises that had disappeared during winter due to the cold and scarcity of food. Now, the forest felt lively and full. The wilderness offered much to those who survived its trials and tests. Harald couldn't see that. He knew how to hunt and camp but he belonged in cities and villages. 

The hours went by quicker than expected and they arrived at Kodak, or rather what was left of Kodak. The market that once likely held many things now had nothing but whispers and memories. Things had been burned down, notable by the charred wood and ashes scattered around. Seeing as there was no smoke or the smell of burning wood, (Y/N) could assume whatever group had raided and destroyed the market had done so days prior.

"We should be quick about this. The people who did this may return." 

"(Y/N)'s right." Leif agreed, nodding as he looked over the debris and rubble with a small frown. "We will need to find metal if the forge still remains standing." He told them, walking deeper into the desolate market in search of the forge.

(Y/N) hummed softly in acknowledgment, looking over the remains of the market. It appeared big and housed many merchants. Anything of value had been likely stolen or burned. (Y/N) listened to Harald and Leif rummage through the wood, collecting any metal they could get their hands on. (Y/N)'s interest, however, shifted to the small dock near the market overlooking the shimmering lake. He glanced back at the other two, spotting them by the still intact forge.

With them occupied and working, (Y/N) approached the dock and stepped on it, careful to avoid the areas where the planks were missing. The sound of crackling fire and hammering of metal filled the air, disturbing the peace of the scenery. 

Tilting his head up toward the vibrant blue sky, (Y/N) closed his eyes and whispered a prayer for Freydis. For her and her child. For a safe delivery. And for them to have a safe passage to Constantinople. The sharp cry of a raven flying overhead interrupted his prayer but it only made him grin and peer up at the dark bird. Allfather had acknowledged his prayer. At least the Gods still watched over them. He inhaled the fresh air as twigs and leaves crunched behind him, arms soon slipping around his waist and pulling him against a strong chest. 

"I miss you," Harald whispered, his beard brushing against the back of (Y/N)'s ear. His rough hands found (Y/N)'s, enveloping them and holding them gently. "And I am thankful you have remained by my side through this journey. I understand if you are still upset. I... I know I needed to hear those words. My mother always told me I can be... stubborn."

"That's one word for it." (Y/N) muttered and Harald chuckled, lips pressing against his temple. (Y/N) stared forward at the water. His chest twisted and turned with feelings he couldn't identify. 

"(Y/N), I am aware we can never be like this in front of others but... I still wish to be yours and for you to be mine. When I retrieve my fleet and take the throne, I will have enough riches to prove I am a suitable and capable husband. I can provide your family with as much coin as they desire. They will not have to live out in harsh lands and will have a full belly each night." Harald spoke softly, looking out at the forest across the river. (Y/N)'s brows furrowed slightly and he shook his head, slipping out of Harald's hold and facing him. 

"My family survives well enough. Greenland is our home. The cold, the danger... is part of who we are. We do not care for riches. I do not care for riches. You have done enough to prove yourself capable of caring for a family, Harald. You do not need a fleet or a crown to prove that. You are a warrior and a good hunter. That is enough for anyone. Only nobles would care about how much coin one has. The fact you are not king has nothing to do with your capability. Your arrogance does. Your pride does. It is not your stubbornness that makes you undesirable. You care about riches and power and you cannot accept anything but those things. You need those things. I was happy in the wilderness, even if all we had was a cabin. Yes, I saw how each day you grew more dislike for it but I thought you'd adapt to it. I know now that... you were not made for the type of life I wish to have. And I was not made to be in a court."

Swiping his tongue over his lips, Harald swallowed and stepped forward, taking (Y/N)'s hands into his. "I enjoyed our time at the cabin because you were there. You may find court enjoyable after you see what it is like. Warm food, the finest clothes, a proper bed. You do not know what it is like yet. You have proven you can adapt to changes. I love that about you. I love you." Harald smiled, bringing (Y/N)'s hands to his lips. But when (Y/N) only stared at him with watery eyes, his smile began to crumble.

"I care about you." (Y/N) whispered, voice nearly cracking. Harald's face fell and he shakily exhaled. "I care about you, Harald. I wish to help you and-"

"You do not love me anymore?" 

"Harald-"

I have made mistakes but I am going to fix them. The riches, the power. I can give it all to you. I-I want to support you and help you and care for you. I cannot do that like this. I am nothing right now. But when we arrive at Constantinople, I will be someone. I will give you whatever you ask for, (Y/N). I promise you that. I will earn back your love-"

"You want to buy my love, Harald. All you think about is that throne. All you think about is coin. All you care about is-is..." (Y/N) trailed, ripping his hand from Harald's and scoffing softly as the tears flooded his eyes. Wiping away the tears when they slipped down his cheeks, (Y/N) sniffled and shook his head. "You cannot seem to understand this so I will speak clearly. I did not care for your royal blood when I fought with you or feasted with you or shared your bed. I did not care about how rich you were. I fell in love with you because you were kind and loyal and showed strength. I fell in love with who you were. Your titles and power had nothing to do with it. But I am sure some noblewoman will care about those things and you will be able to buy her affection with whatever riches you obtain." 

"I do not-"

"I promised to help you so I will. But once that is done, I will return home to Greenland, with or without my brother." (Y/N) stated firmly and wiped away the last of his tears. With a weight off his shoulders, he brushed past Harald and walked off the dock, approaching Leif who watched them with a grimace.

Ignoring the quiet questions from his brother, (Y/N) checked the metal they had created and motioned for them to head back. Harald silently joined them a few minutes later and they headed back through the forest and over the mountain. A newfound tension settled with the three and no matter how many times Leif tried to speak with either man, it remained.

But the silence didn't last long when (Y/N) approached the tree line and abruptly stopped, forcing Leif and Harald to nearly topple him over. 

"There are men." (Y/N) whispered, drawing an arrow from his quiver and getting his bow ready. Some of the men had been killed but four remained. One held Mariam with a knife to her throat while the other two restrained Kurya. The last one staggered behind the first man appearing injured. Aiming at the man holding Mariam, he released the arrow when Harald and Leif charged forward. The man collapsed to the ground as Harald took out two men and Leif buried an axe in the back of the last one. (Y/N) quickly joined them, heading up the platform and checking on the disheveled Eleana. She wrapped her arms around him and panted softly, the medallion around her neck pressing against him. 

"I own you! This is my boat and they are my property!" Gestr's voice roared and (Y/N) turned to look at the tied-up man. Brigtoc, Dorn, and Cadlin held him still as he squirmed and yelled. Batu swallowed thickly and lifted his arm, offering his blade to Dorn. She took it and glared back at Gestr, driving the blade into him. Cadlin went next, stabbing his shoulder blade and listening to him cry out in pain. Finally, Brigtoc took the blade and gave the killing blow to his neck. The three girls panted and let him slump over, glaring down at his body. 

"We have to reattach the rudder," Leif breathed, turning away and walking toward the wooden piece laying on the grass. (Y/N) climbed down into the boat, untying the deceased man before nodding for Batu to help. Together, the two tossed Gestr overboard and into the flowing water before doing the same to the other man onboard. Kaysan took care of the men on shore, similarly tossing the bodies into the water. 

"Kaysan, go collect the food they had on their horses." (Y/N) called down to him, watching the fighter nod and jog over to the horses. Eleana climbed down into the boat and stepped forward toward him, glancing over at Kurya. 

"Kurya's the brother of the Khan. There's apparently a bounty on his head." Eleana revealed. Raising her hand, she touched the sun-shaped medallion she had kept hidden underneath her shirt. Moving closer, she leaned in toward his ear. (Y/N)'s gaze flickered to Harald who watched them with a frown. "And I am to be the Emerpeor of Constanipole's new wife."

                    ➸        ➸       ➸       ➸       ➸ ��     ➸

They traveled for a while before stopping again at the Dnipro River. The land was rich and Mariam had pointed out the soil was perfect for planting. Without the presence of Gestr, the red-haired girls had become more open and sociable, laughing and smiling more without the fear of being harmed looming over them. Cadlin and Kaysan's relationship had notably blossomed into romance. With everyone occupied at their camp, Harald had asked the Greenland brothers to accompany him to the waterfall they'd have to go down once they got moving again. (Y/N) and Harald acted courteously with each other but the tension remained. 

Nearing the rushing water, (Y/N) could hardly hear his own thoughts over the roar of the waterfall. He stepped closer to the ledge, debating moving further but a hand caught his and held it. Looking back at Harald, the prince shook his head and spoke but his words were drowned out by the sound of the water. (Y/N) tilted his head at him and Harald chuckled in defeat, keeping his fingers around (Y/N)'s wrist and standing beside him. 

"It's a long drop," Harald spoke loudly in an attempt to get his voice to carry over the noise. He laughed again and looked back at the giant waterfall, clearing his throat for a moment before suddenly yelling into the air. (Y/N)'s brows raised at how quiet it sounded compared to the waterfall, an amused smile pulling at his lips. Leif laughed and stood beside them, taking out his disk and holding it up in front of his face to toy with it. Harald watched him before his gaze lifted and he stepped back, accidentally tugging (Y/N) along with him. He paused and turned his head, peering down at their intertwined hands and slowly releasing his hold on him. (Y/N)'s amused smile fell. Harald's lips pressed into a thin forced smile and he motioned for the brothers to follow him a bit further up the mountain. 

(Y/N) saw it in the distance, peeking out between two mountains. Camps across the plains. A thin strip of smoke slipped out from a clearing in the forest, catching (Y/N)'s eye. A rather close camp of Pechenegs. They were far enough for it to take days to reach the boat but they were camped near the river below the waterfall that led to Constantinople. They'd likely have weapons, and if their reputation was true, the crew would be in for a painful time if caught. 

"If we survive the falls, then we have to survive them." Harald sighed heavily, tightly gripping the hilt of his sword with his hand. "We must move on. The faster we get this over with, the sooner we'll be out of their territory." He said and turned, heading back up the river. (Y/N) lingered on the camp for a moment before his gaze drifted downward. Harald was right. It was a long drop from the top of the waterfall. High enough to destroy the boat if they got unlucky. (Y/N) looked away and followed Harald back to the boat.

Once the boat came into view, Harald called out to them, "Pack up! We're moving on."

"You have seen the falls?" Batu asked.

"We have." Harald nodded, waiting as everyone gathered around. "I'm not going to lie to you. It will be a challenge. We will have to prepare ourselves to go down it." 

"When do we leave?" Kaysan asked next, one arm wrapped securely around Cadlin's waist. She leaned against his chest with a big smile, gazing up at him lovingly.

"Tomorrow."

"What? Why so soon?"

"The water level is dropping. If we wait much longer, the boat will not make it over the falls." Kurya explained, turning his head in the direction of their voices. 

"And we would all be trapped here," Harald added. Catching the look Batu and Kaysan exchanged, he continued. "The longer we stay here, the greater the chances the Pechenegs will find us."

"Then we portage. The men said the Pechenegs have moved east." Brigtoc proposed. (Y/N) frowned. Most of the crew appeared comfortable at the river. They'd need to be convinced to leave.

"They lied. There are many camps visible from the falls. We could see fires in the plains further ahead." Leif revealed with a light shake of his head. 

Huffing, Harald placed a hand on his hip. "We've risked enough camping here the last few nights. The sooner we move, the better." Harald told them and walked toward the platform to get on the boat. However, Kaysan stepped in front of him and gave an apologetic look.

"Then, I am not sure we will be joining you." He said, wrapping an arm around Cadlin when she moved closer to him and nodded in agreement. Harald blinked at them, brows furrowing as he glanced back at the brothers. 

"Why not?"

"I am not ready to die," Cadlin answered, resting her head against Kaysan's chest. Harald scoffed in disbelief and stepped back, looking over each of the crew members. 

"You would all rather risk the Pechenegs?"

"They haven't found us yet. And you can't tell us the fall is without risk." Brigtoc responded with a light shrug.

"Nothing is without risk! All we have done for the last two moons has been with risk!" Harald rebutted angrily.

"But before we had no choice! Now we do." Cadlin pointed out.

"I choose to stay." Brigtoc stood up from her spot on the boat. Dorn stood up and moved beside her, signaling her agreement with Brigtoc. Batu bowed his head when Harald looked at him and Harald's shoulders slumped. He turned toward Eleana but she shook her head at him. With no one appearing to be on his side, Harald groaned.

"What is all this? We have known for months this day will come. And now, when it is finally here, you are not willing to meet the challenge? I will not wait here and let the Pechenegs make a flute out of my coward's bones! I'll go by myself if I must." Harald barked, moving onto the platform and making his way onto the boat. 

"You can't," Leif called and walked forward, making Harald look at him. "We need at least six rowers, and we must lessen the weight of the boat by 50 skippund or it will not clear the base of the falls."

"50 skippund?" Harald repeated softly, lightly tapping his foot and looking over the boat. "So we lose the mast."

"The mast weighs about 15 skippund," Leif told him, his eyes flickering onto the stacks of fur but Harald shook his head.

"No, if I lose my furs I have no reason to go on."

"Then you are just like everybody else." Leif shrugged. Harald stared at him, jaw clenching as he inhaled sharply. Storming off the platform, he stalked off into the forest while cursing softly under his breath. (Y/N) stared after him and sighed, rubbing the back of his neck and walking through the grass, following the imprints Harald left. 

"(Y/N)?"

"I'll be back." (Y/N) called back to Eleana and continued into the forest, tracking Harald down to a boulder. The prince sat on it, holding his head in his hands. He didn't move when (Y/N) got closer, only sighing quietly when (Y/N) sat down beside him. They stayed quiet and listened to the sounds of the forest until Harald lifted his head and leaned back. 

"Everything has gone wrong... I've lost you and now everyone else has abandoned me." Harald whispered, looking down at the dirt and pushing it around with his foot. "Have you come to lecture me more? Tell me how useless this sulking is?"

"I only tell you the truth, Harald. And the truth is that you cannot expect them to follow you when you refuse to sacrifice something of yours first. Those people may lose their lives going down that waterfall. They're afraid... and they're afraid because they do not trust you. You have not given them a reason to. Cadlin, Dorn, and Brigtoc are experiencing freedom for the first time in a long time. Mariam is dying. Kurya risks being captured and put in front of his murderous brother. Batu and Kaysan are happy because they're surrounded by friends. Eleana... Eleana is the key to Constantinople because she was promised to the emperor." His words made Harald look at him and (Y/N) sighed softly, delicately placing a hand on Harald's cheek. "You are better than this Harald. You are a man of many talents. You will find a way to make money in Constantinople without those furs. It will just take a long time." 

"How do you know?"

"Because you are an intelligent and strong man. And you know I'm right about everything. About us, about them. You mustn't live in denial anymore, Harald. I wanted us to be happy on this trip and in Constantinople. I wanted us to have good memories of each other that we could think about after we part ways. I was never meant to be in court, Harald. I see it in your eyes that you know this is true. You do not want to accept it but you must. Making hard decisions will be part of being King of Norway. This pain will make you stronger." (Y/N) told him softly, using his thumb to stroke Harald's cheek. Rising to his feet, (Y/N) cupped Harald's face and kissed his forehead. "They are not abandoning you. They are trying to make you see their side of things."

With that, he left Harald with his thoughts and returned out to the clearing by the river. Eleana rose from his seat with a bowl of berries in hand, offering him some and glancing back at the forest. (Y/N) quietly thanked her, taking some berries and popping them into his mouth. "Will Harald agree to get rid of the furs?" Eleana asked with a tilt of her head. 

"I'm not su-" Looking back at the forest, Harald reemerged with a concentrated look on his face. Everyone turned to watch him get on the boat and approach his stack of furs. Picking one up, he tossed it overboard and looked back at the others, gaze lingering on (Y/N).

"I cannot guarantee anyone's survival. What is over the falls, I do not know. I can only guarantee my best efforts to keep us alive. And I cannot do that if we remain here." He said and looked back at his furs, continuing to toss them in the river one by one. Leif approached him first to help then Cadlin then Brigtoc and then everyone else. They took the furs and tossed them into the water.

By the end, Harald appeared pleased with himself, smiling widely as everyone worked together to get the mast off and into the water. They packed the tents and other belongings that were on the shore into the boat and turned to Harald and Leif with newfound determination. 

Getting seated, they tied ropes to their oars in hopes it would keep the oars from drifting downstream when the boat went over the falls. Leif wrapped Mariam in a coat and kissed her before taking his place at the back with the rudder. Harald got the boat moving and instructed everyone to row. (Y/N) and Eleana remained with Harald at the front, looking for any large rocks in the water and checking for when the waterfall grew closer. The river began pushing the boat harder and the waterfall came into view, sending a wave of anxiety into (Y/N). He felt rang a finger over his necklace and took in a deep breath.

Once the boat entered the rapids, he ducked down with Eleana and Harald, pressing his back against the boat and holding onto whatever he could. Leif called for the oars to be pulled in and everyone ducked down, holding on for dear life. (Y/N) squeezed his eyes shut, hearing the roar of the waterfall grow closer and closer. Eleana wrapped her arms around his waist, burying her face in his chest fearfully. When the boat went over the fall, screams followed. Water lashed at (Y/N)'s face and body, the force and air lifting him.

And then he felt himself being flung from the boat.

#x reader #x you #x y/n #x male reader #vikings valhalla x male reader #vikings valhalla x you #vikings valhalla #vikings #Vikings valhalla x y/n #harald sigurdsson x reader #harald sigurdsson x y/n #harald sigurdsson x male reader #harald sigurdsson x you #harald sigurdsson #leif eriksson #valhalla mariam #vikings valhalla x reader #valhalla brigtoc #valhalla dorn #valhalla cadlin #valhalla kaysan #valhalla batu #valhalla eleana