Brynjar Augustus's Story

Ingrid listened as Elska spoke. Many of her friends words confirmed her own doubts. Certainly, she might not have Elska's grace and wit in the king's court, but she was not so foolish as an enemy might hope. Perhaps Ingrid was going to have to learn to mind her temper, to be more like Elska or Katinka. It was becoming increasingly clear to the princess that the ways of Byrdain were far removed from those of her home. Perhaps, she thought, perhaps court was simply another form of battle. Ingrid dropped her shoulders. She had expected her marriage to be the source of her woes here, not the politicking. Still, the basic rules of warfare applied. Know your enemy and have a plan, and as you come to know your enemy, allow the plan to adapt. Brynjar was clearly the enemy, trying to provoke something from someone. As for a plan...well, that was proving a little harder to come by. Women were a weakness, but beyond that Ingrid had close to nothing. The man had no honour to attack.

"He is only a man," Ingrid said, trying to comfort Elska's unspoken fear. "They all have their weaknesses, they can all be felled." Ingrid said quietly, unsure as to who might be listening to their words.



"And a woman of the court is one of the reasons I would like to keep her company here. I'm sure she is well acquainted with your court at home, and I am curious to see what perspective she might bring to my own." Tyr smiled thinly at Brynjar's smooth assertions. "Certainly the choice is hers, I shall ask her myself if she would like to stay then." Brynjar trailed off, leaving the sentence hanging in the air.

Tyr shifted in his seat. To say he didn't like this would be an understatement. "Perhaps once she and Ingrid have returned from their stroll I may speak with her privately." Brynjar continued.

Lelinus moved from his seat to move next to Tyr. It was odd that someone so sickly and delicate was Brynjar's brother, and his own by marriage. He was far from the man Tyr had imagined Ingrid marrying one day. Still, Ingrid seemed happy enough with him, so that counted for something. "If Lady Elska chooses to stay, she will be as safe as my own wife, the Princess Ingrid." And he was loyal to Ingrid in a way Tyr was beginning to doubt Brynjar would ever have been. Lelinus leaned towards him. "Don't fall for his feint. Wait for him to trip up."

Tyr pressed his lips into a thin line. It was much easier for the prince to say such a thing. He was yet to sacrifice anything to this madness. Tyr doubted Lelinus would have mourned if Brynjar had been made to move to a foreign land. Tyr dipped his head in acknowledgement of Lelinus's words.

Tyr arranged his features into something more agreeable as he turned from Lelinus. "Perhaps," he directed his words at Brynjar, "it would be better if Ingrid asked her to stay? After all, it is much easier to refuse a friend than a king and I doubt anyone here wants Lady Elska to feel coerced into staying."

Brynjar watched Lelinus lean towards Tyr but was unable to hear what he said. It didn't matter. Brynjar was sure it was a warning. He and Lelinus had been playing this game for years.

Brynjar managed a short laugh as Tyr suggested Ingrid make the request instead of him. "From what I have come to understand of Lady Elska, I doubt anyone would have the power to push her into something she didn't want to do." Brynjar had sensed the quiet strength within Elska even though she resembled a frightened little rabbit when she had been sitting next to him. "I can understand your wish to allow Ingrid to make the request, but I would feel a little bit dishonest to have another do the work for me." His tone was amiable though the grin on his face held something dangerous behind it.

"It would be a great honor to extend the invitation to her myself. It is my hope to get to know her, and while I'm sure her company would help ease Ingrid into my court, I feel I should be the one to express this wish." Brynjar was greatly enjoying pushing Tyr's buttons. He wanted to keep Tyr here, and using Elska to get to him would prove to be entertaining.

"And aside from my wish, I think it would be beneficial for her entrance into my court to have them understand she is the king's guest." He narrowed his eyes as he glanced to Lelinus; the sickly weasel that seemed to always get in the way. "She would garner more respect as my personal guest rather than Ingrid who has yet to get a foothold among my courtiers." Lelinus wouldn't be able to refute this fact.

Elska listened to Ingrid and nodded her head, but she had her own doubts. A man as dark and morally twisted as Brynjar would have very few weaknesses. To find out what those weaknesses were would be another nearly impossible task. "Indeed, but I fear he may find yours, before you can discover his." She whispered in turn. They had been absent from the hall for a while now. "We should probably turn back." Her mind drifted back to Tyr. "We've been gone a long time," she knew Brynjar wouldn't attempt something in public but it didn't stop the fear from gnawing at her insides.

Elska was feeling more and more troubled. She had once heard a saying "keep your enemies close" and hadn't quite understood it until now. Ingrid mentioned men and weakness. Was that why Brynjar was content to keep Tyr around? Was his goal to find his weakness so he could then turn it on Tyr and make him suffer?

That thought chilled her blood and for a moment she felt faint. The longer Tyr stayed, the worse things would get.

Tyr listened as Brynjar spoke. Tyr managed to keep his face neutral, as though he was merely considering the new king's words, rather than wanting to gouge his eyes out for assuming any right to Ingrid's person. Brynjar was a smart man, Tyr could not deny that. Devious, yes, but that always took a great deal of intelligence. To bend people to your whims and have them willingly relinquish their autonomy to please. History had repeatedly proven that cruel kings were brilliant when it came to the mind.

When Brynjar finished speaking, Tyr was silent for a moment before he nodded. "I cannot deny it, Your Majesty, you speak true. No doubt that Lady Elska is strong in mind and spirit, and has always been a good friend to my sister. I'm sure with your considerable patronage among the court, Elska would be very welcome here as your guest. Although, if I may be so bold as to offer His Majesty a small token of advice?" Tyr leaned closer to Brynjar. "Being a king is demanding work, exhausting even." Tyr glanced over to his father. Though Jorvik was by no means young, the trials of kingship had taken a noticeable toll on the man. "A king might have to get used to letting others do some work for him, lest he burn out before his time. I do, of course, offer this advice as a friend of the realm. I would hate to see your people mourn the untimely demise of a man I am sure will be a great king, simply because he worked himself to hard."



"We should probably turn back. We've been gone a long time."

Ingrid looked to the sky for a final moment as the first drops of rain began to fall. Ingrid closed her eyes as the cold rain fell on her face. "I think that might be wise. I'm not sure my dress was made to withstand anything more than a gentle breeze."

The two women left the garden and headed back inside. The air inside felt noticeably colder as the rain gathered pace. Ingrid looked over to Elska, wondering how she managed to stay warm in her dresses. There were nights in Fjellborg when Ingrid's leathers had barely been enough to keep out the cold, and yet Elska nearly always wore these flowing, floaty dresses. It was another thing Ingrid would probably never understand. Tyr and Lelinus might, but not Ingrid.

As she entered the hall again, Ingrid paused mid-step as she saw her brother in close conversation with Brynjar. That was...odd. She had got the impression that Tyr was not a great admirer of Brynjar and yet here the two men were, talking like old friends. Hopefully, some day soon, her life might resume something close to normality.

As the doors closed behind them, Tyr looked up. He beckoned them over, smiling broadly. Ingrid quickened her step back to the table. Tyr stood and embraced Ingrid. "I was beginning to wonder when you would return," he said, as he looked to Elska. "Lady Elska, the king has something he would like to ask you." He smiled brightly at the king and Elska. Elska might hate him for putting her on the spot, but he would let the gods damn his soul before he let Brynjar anywhere near her without witnesses.

Elska let out a small laugh at Ingrid's comment. "I'm surprised you've lasted this long before casting it off and donning your leather." She could feel her skin prickle as the beginning rain was cold to the touch. They moved quickly as the few sprinkles were quickly turning heavy and soon a down pour was over the city. The warmth that was within the walls was comforting. They entered the hall to see Tyr and Brynjar speaking closely to one another.

Elska was good at reading people, it was the reason she could handle herself well in court. Ingrid was skilled at reading her opponent in battle so she could counter attack and defend. Elska could read emotions and knew how to turn the opinion of the court with subtlety. Tyr was speaking close to Brynjar, but the strain in his jaw put Elska on high alert. Tyr was tense. What were they talking about?

Brynjar was amused as Tyr sought to give him friendly advice. Brynjar understood more than most the importance of having others work for you. If Tyr had even the slightest inclination of what Brynjar passed on to the silent shadows, he would not be offering advice and would more likely have a knife pressed to Brynjar's throat.

"I can see our countries do stand a chance at becoming friends. Your advice is sound." Brynjar responded in good nature. Tyr's eyes were pulled away and Brynjar over his shoulder to see the two women had returned. The women were prompt to return to the table as Tyr had beckoned them over. Brynjar was quiet as Tyr and Ingrid embraced. He noticed that both women had a certain glisten about them and realized that the rains had resumed.

Tyr was nearly choking on his words as he rushed to speak them to prevent Brynjar from taking the lead. Brynjar quirked a brow rather amused at the tactic.

Elska was content to melt into the background of the dinner conversation before Tyr turn the attention of their immediate table upon her. Her stomach sank as she looked upon Brynjar.

"Indeed I do," Brynjar stood from his seat casually with a manner as aloof as a cat waking from a sunny nap. "I would prefer to discuss with you in private," he paused before looking over to Tyr, "but I don't suppose Tyr believes us good enough friends to trust me alone with such a beautiful woman." He allowed a wolfish and taunting grin on his face purely for Tyr's reaction before relaxing his face and turning to her.

Elska's stomach squirmed. The constant taunting air about Brynjar vanished as he looked her over. He had a look of hope on his face and it made her skin crawl. She decided she would've preferred the grin he had given Tyr over this face that suggested he wanted to be friends with her.

"What can I do for you, your majesty?" her voice was calm and collected and didn't betray the unease and fear that was growing within her.

"Hm, to begin with, I would at least like some semblance of privacy." He offered her his arm. "How about we speak over there?" he nodded to a rather vacant corner in the room. "That way your watch dog can be sure I won't try anything devious." He winked in a teasing way.

Elska buried one of her hands in the material of her dress at her side, while accepting his arm with the other. She discreetly twisted the fabric, a horrible habit she had never been able to break. She only ever did it when she was uncomfortable or feeling frightened.

"Certainly." She spoke smoothly while darting a look to Tyr and Ingrid.

Brynjar was a man who insisted on controlling the situation. Even though Tyr had made it evident that he'd prefer the conversation happen right at the table, Brynjar had still managed to weasel around it and put everyone on edge again.

It felt a bit awkward to be escorted to a quiet corner with the newly crowned king, but Elska refused to show it. He kept her hand in the crook of his arm and angled them just enough so Elska was hidden from the others at the table. Brynjar had his back to them and resisted the urge to gauge the reaction of those who he was sure were holding their breath. He was known to be unpredictable, and that was what made situations like this fun.

"You're making quite the scene for something I'm sure is trivial." She pursed her lips as she decided to call him out on his behavior. He grinned down at her.

"I know." His spoke in a low voice that suggested they were co-conspirators; she didn't like it.

"You could've asked me at the table, your majesty," she tacked his title on reluctantly.

"Yes, but there would be no fun in that."

"Is that all we are? A source of amusement?"

"I'm a man of war Elska, without war, I'll go mad." He was surprisingly honest with her and it brought her fears back up to the surface. "I was rather intrigued when I discovered Tyr was staying." He reached out and twisted a few strands of her hair between his thumb and forefinger. She began to fidget as he didn't say anything more. She was about to speak when he spoke up again.

"My court is dull," Elska wasn't surprised he found his own court dull. She doubted he found anything exciting unless it involved maiming of some kind. "You were bred for a life in court." Both of these statements had Elska on edge. What was he getting at? What was his goal? "You care for Tyr."

Elska felt her heart start to sink. "H-he's like a brother, they were all siblings to me." She wanted to step out of his reach but he kept on fingering her hair.

"The others may have been," he said slowly and casually, "but you've got a separate part of your heart reserved for Tyr."

Elska had never said anything aloud and had rarely dared to think it. Why would Brynjar be so confident in speaking it aloud? Did she wear her emotions so readily on her sleeve?

"You're afraid for him." Brynjar released her hair before trailing his fingers down her arm. "You don't like the idea of him staying here underneath my feet."

Elska shifted so she could look around Brynjar and to where Tyr still stood. She was afraid for both Ingrid and Tyr, but the fear she felt for Tyr was more primal.

"Why don't you stay?"

This question was unexpected and she looked back to Brynjar startled.

"Why?" she asked cautiously.

"I told you, I'm bored," he shrugged. "Let's be honest, you'd rather run the risk of staying here so you can keep an eye on him. You'll go mad if you go home not knowing when," he paused and even though he didn't say it, they both knew he also meant or if, "you'll get to see him again."

Elska bit her lower lip. She peered around Brynjar at Tyr again. She was too afraid to leave him alone with Brynjar even though Brynjar had seen right through her. She was terrified that her feelings were so transparent; even still, she'd rather stay and play into Brynjar's hand than risk never seeing Tyr come home.

Brynjar looked down at her expectantly. She stared up at him with a blaze of defiance and wrenched her hand from his grip and took one step back.

"I'm not going to let you hurt him," she said fiercely and for a moment Brynjar thought she resembled a mother bear defending her young. "I'll stay." Even as she said it she nearly wanted to take the words back as a dark and maniacal look entered his eye.

"Good." The way he said it sent a shiver down her spine and she flinched slightly as he reached out to offer his arm to her once more.

They walked the distance back over to the table and Elska had lost her appetite.

"It's settled," Brynjar had returned the mask to his face and flashed a grin to both Lelinus and Tyr. "Lady Elska will stay and offer her insights into my court," he leaned in close to her and she forced herself not to flinch back. "I look forward to getting to know you better," he brought her hand to his lips and kissed it.

"As do I," she managed before turning to the others. "Today has been a long day, I'm afraid I'm not feeling well, if you'll excuse me, I think I'll retire." She dipped her head respectfully.

"Certainly Lady Elska," Brynjar nodded his head and she began a quick retreat.

Leo had underestimated his brother. He did not like admitting that to himself, but it was true. Lelinus had always thought of his brother as a brute with low cunning, unable to function without the advantages his position gave him, but he had successfully manipulated the conversation in his favor. True, he had the power that kingship gave him along with the fact that both kingdoms were weary of war and could not afford to be seen as provoking an incident, but words were his weapons of choice.

Whispers echoed through the hall. Brynjar's behavior was scandalous, but it would stain Elska far more than himself. It was acceptable for a man to be improper, but a woman? Another standard was held. Such was the way of things. He glanced over at Ingrid as she took a seat at the table, spotting the look of confusion on her face. This was a battlefield foreign to her, he noted.

"Well, this was sufficiently entertaining. I am sure Lady Elska was just beside herself with delight," he mocked, pouring himself another goblet of wine.

"Truly, this was a stroke of diplomatic brilliance."

"Well, this was sufficiently entertaining. I am sure Lady Elska was just beside herself with delight." Ingrid looked over to her husband as he began pouring a drink. She had fast learned that wit and wry humour were his weapons of choice, but this erred far too close to mocking for Ingrid's tastes. "Truly, this was a stroke of diplomatic brilliance."

Ingrid drew her bottom lip through her teeth. Leo wasn't a cruel man, at least not like his brother. Was he? Ingrid sighed with frustration. No one here was saying what they really meant. Everything was hidden behind double meanings and backhanded compliments. At this rate, no one was going to have to worry about her killing Leo or Brynjar, she might just kill herself from sheer frustration and save everyone the trouble.

She looked over to Tyr and saw that he looked as tense as she felt. His eyes had remained on Elska and Brynjar as they spoke in the corner. If looks alone could kill a man, Brynjar would have fallen under the full wrath of the gods. Not for the first time, and probably not for the last, the siblings were wondering what on earth Jorvik had got them in to. Tyr had simply nodded when Elska had announced she was planning to retire. Tyr drained his goblet and signaled for a refill.

Oh, Ingrid thought, it's going to be one of those nights. Tyr might have been the wise one of the three of them, but Ingrid was starting to wonder if Ull had been the sensible one after all. Between her brother drinking, being unable to breathe because of this infernal contraption around her waist, and Brynjar and Leo being...well, Brynjar and Leo, Ingrid had a sinking feeling that the night was going to end on a very sour note if one of them wasn't careful. Ingrid rose from her seat. "Elska was right. It's been a long day. Good night," she said, without any consideration for courtesy as she left the hall.

Tyr frowned as Ingrid left but his expression soon cleared. Ingrid had never been one for grand events that didn't involve a fight of some sort. This was all far too civilised for any self-respecting shield maiden. "If you'll excuse me gentlemen, I'm going to sit with my own people." Tyr scraped his chair along the floor as he stood and carefully walked to his Beserkers. He wanted to get very drunk, so drunk that this night would be a blur in his memory when he woke up. He could be pleasantly surprised that Elska was staying then, rather than angry and... something else he couldn't quite put his finger on. His men cheered loudly as he sat with them. A second later, a tankard was in his hands. Finally, some people with some sense.

As the night began to draw to a close, Tyr's head felt fuzzy. Good. That was very good. But he couldn't shake the feeling there was something he needed to say to Lelinus. He turned to look around the room. He spotted the prince across the room and stumbled over to him. He rested a hand on the prince's shoulder, clasping it tightly. "You've upset Ingrid. Don't do that again. 'S a stupid thing to, to do." He patted Lelinus's shoulder firmly and nodded before heading out of the hall and back to his room.

---

Tyr rolled over in his bed, still dressed in the clothes he had worn the previous night. Evidently drunk Tyr hadn't wanted to make life easy for sober Tyr. Tyr groaned as he sat up. His head pounded. Tyr rubbed the heels of his hands into his eyes, trying to alleviate the ache behind them. Keeping his eyes closed for as long as he could, Tyr began stripping from his leathers. He hated wearing the damn things anyway.

He silently padded across the room. Now that he was an official guest of the realm, and not some heathen barbarian that wanted to seduce all the eligible maidens or whatever nonsense the nobility was spouting, his treatment had markedly improved. Not that that was saying much. But it did mean that there was water in his room now. Tyr poured himself a glass as the unfortunate events of last night replayed in his mind. He grimaced. Keeping an eye on Ingrid had been one thing, but now Elska as well. Either the gods had a wicked sense of humour or Brynjar was a damned being walking the earth.

Tyr sat down on the edge of the bed. Whatever Lelinus had said last night, it had upset Ingrid. He hoped, more for the prince's sake than anything, that they had managed to smooth things over. Ingrid and Lelinus falling apart was the last thing any of them needed. Unless you happened to be a blond bastard named Brynjar.

Brynjar was oddly content when, not only Ingrid, but Tyr retreated from their table. He had won the evening. His mood was bolstered and that was shown as he allowed himself to drink a little bit more heavily as he had neutralized the threats for the evening. He did not drink nearly as much as Tyr was. Even from a distance Brynjar kept his eyes on the Fjellborg heir. The man was considerably relaxed among his own. It was evident that Tyr felt kinship towards his people. It was a feeling that was foreign to Brynjar.

There was a hollow space within Brynjar's chest as the night was dying down. His drunk guests were stumbling their way out to try and make it safely back to sleeping quarters. The victory he felt against those closest to him had faded. Brynjar was starting to feel moody. After a while he decided to retreat to his rooms. He shoved back from the grand table disturbing the few who were in a hazy drunken state.

Despite the alcohol he had consumed through the night Brynjar's step was solid and straight. The hollow space was starting to gnaw at him. He hated this sensation. He only knew of two ways to push the feeling aside; killing and sex. Right now there wasn't any sense in killing someone so he hunted through the halls until he found a rather inebriated serving girl who put up little resistance as he corralled her back to his room. The poor girl was terrified but had no strength to fight against him. Brynjar locked his room. He'd be damned if he let Evangelina disrupt this past time.

Brynjar ended up collapsing against the bed and the poor girl whimpered herself to sleep. He lay there with his eyes wide open. Somehow the hollow feeling hadn't lessened any. It frustrated him but the exhaustion of the day was catching up to him and he finally slipped into sleep. He had no care for the girl in bed next to him.

The morning came more quickly than Brynjar would've appreciated. There was a dull throb in his head to now accompany the feeling in his chest. He rolled over in bed and saw the girl wrapped up in a tight ball with a pained look on her face as she slept. He lay there, mulling over whether or not to take advantage of her again. He doubted it would be successful in easing his ache. He reached out to touch her but before he could he stopped.

Brynjar was a monster. He knew that, and he couldn't bring himself to find an ounce of care.

Even still, he decided to let the girl be. He rose from his bed to go to the bathing chamber connected to his room. He stripped down and used a cloth to wash himself down. He didn't bother with calling for a bath. By the time he dried off and entered his room the girl was gone and his bedroom door was cracked open.

He smirked slightly. She had been quite good at faking her sleep.

Elska laid awake in her bed the entire night. She was afraid to close her eyes. She was afraid of what she had agreed to. It didn't feel right. She had agreed to Brynjar's request and the words had left her tongue tasting sour. She regretted them and wished to take them back. Brynjar had admitted things in a round about way that had her worried. He was planning something, and keeping her there made it all the more interesting.

Elska shifted restlessly and finally abandoned her bedding when the grey of predawn entered her chambers. She shivered as her feet hit the chilly stone flooring. Brynjar was a bad man prepared to take away what she loved. He was cold and calculating. He had seen straight through her, straight into the heart she had previously believed to be locked up tightly. Elska had never treated Tyr as more than a brother. She had never once allowed herself to express the inner most feelings of her heart. She knew Jorvik respected her and had looked to her father in the past, but somehow she didn't think she was what he had in mind for Tyr.

She thought she had never overstepped her boundaries with him, but perhaps she hadn't been so careful. Brynjar had read her clear as day. Did others know? That thought had her stomach sinking. Elska had come to the decision years before to never reveal how she felt. She couldn't trust those feelings to anyone but herself. She was content to stand in Tyr's court and watch him rule one day, it would be enough for her. Elska only ever wanted to see Tyr safe and happy even if it meant with another woman.

Elska crossed the room and changed quickly from her nightgown into a gown made from sturdier material than she typically wore. She wrapped a cloak around her shoulders, laced up her boots, and abandoned her room. The castle was still silent and sleepy. She felt the walls closing in on her. She could feel Brynjar closing his hand around her. The claustrophobic feeling was too much for her. She pushed through an outer door into the shockingly cold morning air. She worked her way through the castle ground until she reached a garden. It helped her feel a bit more detached and isolated from the daunting mistake she feared she had made.

Tyr saw Elska as a second sister, she knew that. She had come to grips with that reality a long time ago. There may have been a time where it would send her to angry tears or try and break something in rage, but not longer. She knew that Tyr couldn't risk a relationship closer to her. Brynjar made it clear he was prepared to manipulate them.

As much as Elska wanted to take back her decision to stay she knew she couldn't. Even if staying would end her life, she had to be there to make sure Tyr would be okay. The idea of returning to Fjellborg and never knowing his true fate--if he didn't return home--was far too bitter a medicine to swallow. She would stay.

She had been staring at a large rose bush covered in snowy blossoms. She reached out to touch the delicate petals only to accidentally prick herself on a thorn. She watched the drop of blood ooze from her finger before staining and marring the white. She brought her finger to her mouth and trick to suck the pain away.

She knew Brynjar had something in store, and not knowing what was eating her inside. Elska realized as she stared at the tarnished rose that she had to keep her distance from Tyr. She couldn't let Brynjar use her to get to him. The thought of keeping him distant sent a gnawing ache through her heart. It would be for his own good.

The restless feeling returned. The sun had risen a considerable distance at this point. Elska turned from the garden and began to move again. She didn't know where she wanted to go, only that she couldn't stop or her chest felt too tight and it would be too hard to breathe.

Evangelina turned in rather early the night before. She avoided the King knowing she was in for it after her speaking up last night. Typically, he seemed to be rather amused by her fire, but last night, he wanted it snuffed and she wouldn't allow it. Now, she knew he would be particularly ornery with her and all she could really do was brace herself of be out of a job.

She'd dressed early in her usual fashion, it kept her modest but still revealed more then the woman of this culture. She traded her blues for black, as she'd done the previous night, still mourning her old friend's passing and made her way toward the new King's chambers. It was at the moment, a small form knocked into her.

"My apologizes" called the young woman as Evangelina held her steady. She wouldn't met her gaze. "It is alright." She said and the woman finally looked at her, her accent calling her attention.

"You are...You are the foreign girl, the handmaiden to the king?" She asked and Evangelina nodded, noting how she strain to say king. "I am."

"Are you a slave?"

Evangelina frowned at that. ."No, I am not." She said, offended, it wasn't the first time someone thought her a slave and she didn't appreciate it.

"Then you should go...Go before he..." The girl stopped, whimpering, turning her head for her shame. Fury bloomed within Evangelina but she kept it from her face.

"What did he do to you?" She asked, venom in her words. "What he does to all women he gets his hand o....we can't say no not anymore....He is King now."

"A King that bleeds red." Evangelina said. Her fear of punishment gone from her now, replaced with the want to harm this new king. His father thought there was good in him but she was beginning to believe it was wishful thinking of an ailing old man. The girl looked up at her. "He'll hurt you too...You shouldn't be alone with him."

"I appreciate your concern but he won't hurt me...." She said and the girl looked at her. "You don't know---"
"Yes, I do, I know how to say no, I can it say if nineteen languages....and if that doesn't work, I'll find another way to make him see reason...or stars." She said and with that Evangelina left the girl sputtering, while she sauntered off to the King's chambers, finding the door slightly ajar.

She walked in, with no pretense of subjugation, not after the look of fear she just had to witness. The 'King' was standing by his bed, freshly water, skin dried, free of cloth. She merely looked him in the eyes.

"Good Morning, You're Grace....Glad to see you only took advantage of one only woman last night, must have been a slow night for you." She said, unable to quell her fury. What his father saw in him, she could never know, how could someone find good in a monster such as he? Se moved to find him some clothes, and she almost hoped he try something, if only for her to prove that the thing he used to put fear and pain on to that girl was also the very thing that made him vulnerable.

Brynjar looked over lazily at the door as Evangelina entered. There was anger reflecting in her eyes and it only served to improve his mood. He was still angry with her for the night before, but after sleeping he had a bit more sense to him. A devilish grin slid to his face as she kept her eyes trained on his face and attempted at throwing insult towards him.

"And why should you think that meant I had a slow night?" he perked a brow as he thought back to the several times he had taken advantage of the girl. He crossed his arms and leaned against the bed post of his bed. He watched her casually as she finally retrieved clothing for him. She was angry with him and he found it entertaining. What could she do to him? What hope did she have against the king?

He took his time getting dressed. Once he had he closed the distance between them, fully invading her space. He forced her on the retreat until he had her pressed up against the stone wall. He placed his hands on either side of her, trapping her. "I do not appreciate insubordination." His voice was low, the threat clear. He brought a hand to her throat, but didn't squeeze. He trailed his fingers down lazily, tracing the flesh of her exposed chest. "You were out of line last night." He leaned in to whisper in her ear. "You deserve punishment for defying your king." He kept whispering. "What do you suggest?" he pulled back just enough so he could look her in the eye.

"And why should you think that meant I had a slow night?" Brynjar said, the ease of his tone just serve to annoy her further. "There was only one of them..." She said, venom in her tone as she set his clothes on the bed and folded her arms defiantly. He dressed slowly, as if he wanted her to boil further with his choice of speed and when he finally finished, he approached her. She didn't know why she expected him to stop a reasonable distance, but she had and it force her to take involuntary steps back as he closed in. Soon she had no more steps to take as she was pressed firmly against the wall behind her. She stared defiantly at him, knowing there were only few options at this point. She could strike him but then where would she end up, in a cell? tried for treason? He wouldn't though, his pride wouldn't let him, that much she could tell. She amused him, that she also knew, she wondered what a strike to his manhood would do for his amusement?

His hands came up to either side of her head, locking her between him and the wall. "I do not appreciate insubordination." He told her, indignation in his tone. She merely rose a brow. She was going to say something to the contrary before his hand came up, grasping her throat. She stiffened but he didn't squeeze, instead his hand danced down her chest. "You were out of line last night." He whispered, leaning in close, causing her to stiffen even further were it possible. "You deserve punishment for defying your king." He said softer still, and she wished she could stop her heart from racing. She didn't want him to see her fear but her earlier anger gave way to it. "What do you suggest?" He said and pulling back enough to look in her eyes.
For some odd reason she felt this was a game, with specific rules of engagement, she needed to play this properly. She didn't want to end up in a prison cell, nor did she want to end up without a job, that and she didn't want to fail so soon. She knew and was told what he was, she wouldn't let this minor set back stop her. So she rose her hand instead of her knee, which was aching for justice and swiftly knocked his hand from her chest. " A dock in pay." She said, raising her chin. She had no place to move, they were face to face, so that when she rose her chin, she could feel his breath on her skin and surely he could feel the same. "Besides... you seemed to enjoy it when I am...'insubordinate'." She added with a defiant smile.

Brynjar watched her carefully as she suggested a dock in pay. He could tell that he had got under her skin. He wasn't sure what was keeping her. Any other woman in her position would have quit and left. Why was she so determined to stay? He shook his head slightly when she knocked his hand away. "Don't get me wrong, I do enjoy it." He brought his hand down to her waist and held her firmly. "But I will not be undermined in public." He pretended to mull something over before he completely invaded her space by stepping in close. Their bodies were pressed lightly against each other and he was pleased to find she was soft. It was one thing he loved about women, they were always soft.

"Instead of docking your pay," he began slowly, "how about a kiss instead?" his dark eyes were looking down at hers. "Nothing more or less, just one kiss." He enjoyed the power he held over her in that moment.

Elska had returned in from the garden and was thinking she would find some breakfast as she felt familiar pangs of hunger. She was surprised to hear her name being called and her stomach dropped as she turned to find Tyr catching up to her. He closed the distance and gently grabbed her arm as he asked if she was okay. Her stomach rolled over. She quickly drew her arm from his grasp as it sent a tingle up into her shoulder. She reminded herself she couldn't give Brynjar any more bait than he already had.

"I'm fine." Her voice sounded oddly distant. "Really I'm fine. He did nothing to me." She said curtly. Yet, she thought a bit dismally. "Are you well?" there was a faint flush to Tyr's cheeks and she wondered just how much Tyr had drunk the night before. She refrained from reaching out to touch him. She forced herself to take a step back.

"Don't get me wrong, I do enjoy it."Brynjar said, after shaking his head. His hand moved to her waist and gripped her firmly. She sucked in a breath. "But I will not be undermined in public." He said darkly and Evangelina could not fight the urge to swallow, as he pressed against her, after considering something. Perhaps he enjoyed her company too much.

"Instead of docking your pay," He began and Evangelina feared the worse, what would he make her do and would she do it, to keep her promise? The old man, as kind as he was...would not have wanted her to put her self, her virtue, in harms way, as surely he did not expect such things from his son but there was no one to reign him in, just as his younger brother said. "how about a kiss instead?" He said and Evangelina looked eye him, bewildered and her head cocked. "What?" She breathed a lot. Besides the absurdity of the request, it was just that. A request. He didn't move in to kiss her, though now he was firmly pressed against her, his hand invading her personal space but he didn't press for more when he had her at a disadvantage. "Nothing more or less, just one kiss." He said, adding to her confusion. He was trying to convince her for a kiss. He didn't just take one, when he had the opportunity. It struck her then. He wanted her to give in to him, that was the game he was playing, who would break first, either he would and stop harassing her, or she would, and give in to his whims, and allow him that power. Surely he wanted to kiss her but if he just took it, it wouldn't be what he wanted. Not from her.

She smiled, almost as if she was considering this and leaned up, her hand going to his at her waist and whispered. "A dock in my pay will do, I've learned my lesson." She said and leaned back as much as she could against the wall, her hand pushing his from her waist. but her eyes watched his regardless. She learned her lesson in deed. He wanted her to give in, he wanted the power over not her physically, or rather not JUST physically, but he wanted power of her resolve. She wouldn't give in, besides that deep down, she didn't want to end this game....as dangerous as it was. She wanted to win.

Brynjar wasn't surprised by her response, but he was a little disappointed. She gripped his hand tight and forced him to remove it from her waist. He gave her a roguish grin. If she had caved it would've been a little too easy. Evangelina had a fire burning inside of her. Brynjar wanted to tame that flame. He wanted to get her to submit to him of her own volition and not by force. It would be a better victory that way.

"Very well, a dock in your pay," he confirmed before finally allowing her some space. Without a word he turned from her and left his quarters to attend matters of state. Their game wasn't over for the day, she had merely won this round. Brynjar walked with purpose down the halls. The servants that crossed his path ducked their heads and veered to the opposite side of the hall in an attempt to avoid him. Brynjar had been known in the past to lash out at those closest to him when he found himself in a foul mood.

After a while he rounded the corner and saw Brother Beorn retreating from the Patriarch's study. He was such an odd little man. Brynjar knew that Beorn despised him nearly as much as Lelinus did. He waited until the priest was out of sight before he approached the heavy oak door. Brynjar didn't bother knocking; he was king after all.

"Good morning Patriarch," he seemed to be in a rather fine mood. "We do not have much time to waste," he came to stand across the desk from Julius but did not sit down. "I am now king, and I need to keep the throne secure. It's no secret that I've avoided the union of marriage in the past, but it is part of my duties to ensure an heir for the throne." He rested his palms on the edge of the desk. "It's time I get married, but it needs to be a match both the court and the church will support." Brynjar already had an idea for a candidate. If everything went according to plan he would succeed in ripping apart the Fjellborg line.

"You see much and receive divine inspiration, is there anyone you might suggest that I should take into consideration?" Brynjar never wasted time and quickly got to the point.

To business. Julius liked that in a man and even more in a king. His mind raced as he considered possible matches for the king. He was a powerful prince, one whose attentions were not easily put aside even if unsavory rumors left the city's walls. He reached in his drawer for some reports he had prepared for this very purpose along with rough sketches and physical descriptions of the ladies in question.

"There is a plethora of ladies worthy of Your Grace's attention. You have my assurance that the Church in Byrdain will wholeheartedly support whoever you might choose. Each of these marriages are to good stock and will strengthen your reign in different ways. There is Lady Lysa Blackwood. House Blackwood remains House Forrester's, Duke Aethwulf's House's, main rival. If Duke Aethwulf is loved by all then Lord Ekbert is feared by all. Such a union would... ensure the loyalty of the North.

"Then there is Lady Augusta Bracken. House Bracken has secured for itself much land and many serfs over the years. Be warned, however. Augusta's previous marriage was annulled due to impotence," Here he smirked, "It was my judgement that she is as pure as the day Artemesia breathed life into her. Her husband attempted to appeal to the Holy Father, but plague saw him perish on his pilgrimage."

"You may wish to renew your family's claim on the Duchy of Valois. Lady Marguerite DuCapet is the daughter of the Viscount of Marseilles, vassal to the current Valmagne Duke of your family's ancestral lands and his second cousin. Duke Henri will not object if she arrives in Byrdain and her blood would strengthen your claim to the Duchy... If a sympathetic Holy Father were to hear your cause and Valmagne is otherwise occupied with her neighbors or an infidel incursion from the south. The Kingdom of Valencia and the Princes of the Kallachian principalities are already clamoring for a non-Valmagne Holy Father..."

"Then there is the Merchan Prince of Tulsa's daughter, Lady Esmeralda Anastas. All told, an innocent young thing. Her father would grant you a rich dowry in exchange for certain concessions for his fleet."

He paused for a moment, gathering his thoughts, "If Your Grace desires true royalty, however, the Emperor of Valmagne remains loathe to marry any relations to a member of House Augustus and Valencia would demand certain privileges and promises. They would call you into war before you can call them. The Kallachians remain petty princelings on the level of your own vassals. There is talk of unity, but it is a fool's dream. I am eager to hear Your Grace's thoughts."

"Very well, a dock in your pay." The King said and Evangelina allow herself to breath as he stepped back, giving her room to do so. She gave a slow bow with her head, as he walked out. He seemed to be disappointed in her answer and now in a foul mood. That was alright though because she won. She knew she won this round. That was just in though. It was a round, implying there would be many more to come before the game was over. What that meant,she didn't want to say.

She finished up with her work and made her way toward the monk's study. It was time for her daily lessons. She was making headway with reading the words. Writing them was a bit more difficult. She had a good teacher though. She smiled softly at the apple tree that told her she was on the right track and entered freely.

"Brother Beorn?" She called as she entered, closing the door behind her, the now familiar smells of oils, lemons, and other plant life, filling her lungs, and the humidity of the room sank into her skin. It might have been considered a little too hot had she not be born and raised in much hotter region.

She brushed her fingers over the plants, admiring them as she waited for him to appear, and when he did, he looked distraught. "Brother Beorn?" She asked, letting her hand fall from the lemon tree's leaves. "Are you alright?" She asked with a frown, the tension was practically bleeding from him. "What happened?"

Brynjar glanced over the rough sketches that Julius had produced and listened carefully as he explained each eligible woman. Each one appealed to him, but they weren't intriguing enough to spark more interest over the end goal he already had in mind. He did however, pretend to mull over the information.

"Well I don't think we can afford to be dragged into a war right now so soon after declaring peace with Fjellborg," he said slowly. At least, not the war I want. He thought a little greedily. "I do not think Lady Marguerite would be a good match." He pushed her parchment aside and gazed at the other three. "I do not think Lady Augusta would be a good fit either, especially if her marriage was dissolved due to impotence. While I had no issues in that realm, I think bringing her into the royal family might stir rumors we'd rather avoid."

He looked over Lady Lysa and Lady Esmerelda. Brynjar was not fond of Duke Aethwulf and securing Lord Ekbert's loyalty through a marriage would be very advantageous. It might even allow Brynjar to push Duke Aethwulf out of the courts. It was a temping thought. He also knew that securing a large dowry through Lady Esmerelda would prove fruitful but at the same time he wasn't eager with the thought of returning any sort of favors. Brynjar hated owing others anything. He knew that the Prince of Tulsa would eventually cash in on the union for his benefit.

Brynjar thought for a few minutes more. "I did have one idea," he said slowly before moving to standing over by the window. "I have invited Lady Elska to extend her stay while the rest of the Fjellborgan guests return home today. I have been impressed with her in both her temperament and spirit. She is beautiful, and I think perhaps solidifying our union with Fjellborg would be a wise move. We all know that Lelinus does not have the strength in body to last, he was born sickly and I fear his life will be claimed by his ailments one day. When that day happens there will be not much to keep Princess Ingrid here and I should think she'd prefer to return to her snowy northern home. Our ties with Fjellborg would then be thin and I fear that it would send us back into a war with them." He looked over at Julius who had been listening quietly.

"Fjellborg was a formidable foe and has already proven to be an exceptional ally. If I were to make an offer for Lady Elska she would then be bringing Fjellborg blood into the Augustus line. While she is not from the royal family, she is still a noble from the House Agir and I have strong suspicions Tyr Jorvikson would never bring any harm to her regardless of his feelings for me. Our southern neighbors are growing restless and I fear they might take advantage of our weak state now that we have ended things between Fjellborg. I want to secure them as our ally and I see the best way to do it is through another union with Lady Elska." He paused. "Of course, this is merely what's been on my mind. Perhaps a union wouldn't be necessary. I would like to get to know Lady Elska better before making an offer." Tyr will not want me to monopolize her time. Brynjar thought with a wolfish grin. Tyr was here for Ingrid, and Elska was here for Tyr.

"What do you think of such an union?" it didn't matter too much watch Julius thought as his opinion wouldn't sway Brynjar one way or the other. However, it was important to keep the Patriarch in the loop and in Brynjar's pocket. The holy man had a great deal of power and influence that Brynjar didn't.

The smell of tea filled the room, its scent calming his raw nerves. He should not have lost his temper with the Patriarch. Artos was not king anymore, he reminded himself. He was not here to discipline his son or protect his servants from Brynjar's wrath, but the whole injustice of the situation. As the water was brought to a boil, he did not hear Evangelina enter until he he heard her voice.

"Brother Beorn? Brother Beorn? Are you alright? What happened?"

Her voice was beautiful. Even with his soul lost in the storm of his emotions, he could not help, but admire it, so different from those of the Byrdain or the Fjellborgans or even the Valmagne. He tried to give her a small smile as he set the pot of tea down and added the tea leaves.

"I apologize for my emotions troubling you, Lady Evangelina. I am... I suppose I am in a struggle with the Spirit. I have thought ill of not only the king, but my superior in this land," he confessed, reaching for a pair of cups to pour the tea in. He reached for the lemons growing beside her dusky hands, brushing them with his as he picked one to cut into slices to serve with their tea.

"Artemesia taught us virtue, but the good Patriarch rushes to obey him above all things. Above his honor. Above God. Certainly above the people he was taken from among. I have prayed ceaselessly, but I receive only the answer in my heart."

He led her to a small sitting area near some blossoms that were just beginning to bloom the spring's chill.

"Wicked men cannot be unopposed," he whispered softly. It was a small sound, but strength underlay it, like a centuries old oak standing tall and silent. He gazed at her. It did not escape him how the king looked at her, how he longed to break the strength he had begun to adore.

"Forgive me. I have forgotten your own trials. How are you? I wish you could have seen us at our best, but you see us at our worst."



Heat ran up and down his body. In his preparations for Ingrid's breakfast and their subsequent other activities, he had not noticed, but he could feel a fever growing in his skin. It was not deadly. Rather, he knew it would annoy him all day. But here, in his own bed with his beautiful wife's body entangled in his and her head resting on his chest, he felt doubly tempted to plead illness and lay with her all day. He felt her fingers tapping against him and he lazily snaked his arm around his waist.

"We should dress," she announced and he found himself nodding reluctantly, "I should be there to see my father off and you need to show me where this chapel is that we are to use."

They remained in bed and Leo brushed a strand of hair and kissed her cheek. It was an innocent gesture despite their previous activities. He would be content to just have her in his arms all day and admire her beauty. Those songs he heard every feast for as long as he could remember suddenly did not seem so silly now, but they had business.

"We haven't moved. Tell me we need to move."

"We have to move. If we don't do so now, we'll never get anything done," he replied, reluctantly. He sat up, resting on their bed for a moment before slowly standing up and beginning to dress himself. He smiled at her.

"My brother was short-sighted to ever refuse your hand and as always, I thank God for his stupidity. I pray her it continues to benefit us," he told her lightly, though there was a sort of steel behind his words. They had resolved to remove him from the throne for their own safety and the good of the realm. Once on this course, they could not falter. For their sake and for the sake of the child they had resolved to bring into being.



"Your reasoning is sound... Indeed, it is the Holy Chair's wish to foster greater ties with the Northmen so that hostilities may cease completely between them and Artemesian lands. I also hear he has been impressed by their berserkers and would deeply love to see them become Artemesian knights. He wrote a letter of approval to your father about your brother's match. I see no reason this match would not please him."

Truthfully, Julius was taken aback. Brynjar had never shown anything but contempt for the Northmen up until now. Now he wanted to wed one of them? He thought for a moment.

"It is a satisfactory match, Your Grace. Your vassals may not be entirely happy, however. It is one thing to lose your hand to a fellow civilized Artemesian. It is another to lose your hand to a pagan woman from our recent enemy's ranks. Rest assured, I will work tirelessly to placate them or, if need be, silence any objections through harsher means... You are certain Lady Elska will say yes?"

Elska could see that bringing up Ull wasn't the greatest of choices, but she needed to get her point across. She saw his pain and could see the reflection of that horrible day haunting his eyes. Elska couldn't stand the distance between them any longer. He had stepped towards her and she reached a hand out to him. She rested it on his chest where she could feel his heart thumping beneath her. "It is not your fault that Ull was killed," she said gently. "He fought as valiantly as any berserker could. The one responsible for his death is to blame, not you." Elska frowned thinking of Brynjar. It forced her to remove her comforting hand from his chest since anyone could spot them.

"You will not lose me Tyr, I can promise you that much." She murmured the words. She was not the one that Brynjar wanted to cause pain. "I know you're worried for me, but I won't change my mind. I'm going to stay." She spoke softly but she was resolved. He couldn't sway her. There was nothing in the world that could send her away from Tyr.

"You're father will be departing soon, I am sure he is waiting for you to come to say goodbye." She folded her arms once more close to her body. "We should go," she insisted before turning from him. She didn't wait to see if he was still following her. She was afraid of who might have seen them together. There was one person in particular she prefer'd to avoid.

"You make a valid point Patriarch, but even if I chose someone from within our court one of the other noble houses may feel snubbed or cheated. The way I see it there will be those displeased. At least this way we will ensure the security of our borders with the north. With the strength of Fjellborg behind us other kingdoms will think twice before attempting to wage war against us." He spoke smoothly.

"Isn't it part of our duty as Artemesians to show the better path to our pagan neighbors?" Brynjar had never really felt religious. It was only when it suited a means to an end that he really bothered to delve into it. "I do believe she will say yes." He knew she wouldn't refuse him. "But for now I would like this kept quiet. I want to properly court her for a little bit before making my intentions known. I think it will be the best way to ensure a smooth marriage contract."

"I must go and see our honored guests off and I'm sure you have work to finish. Thank you for your counsel Patriarch." Brynjar left the Patriarch's chambers and walked quickly to the large entrance of the castle. Brynjar was the first of the royal family to arrive. Jorvik had his party assembled in the front courtyard. Brynjar approached and dipped his head stiffly.

"Your visit was a great honor to us," his words were formal and an expected part of the goodbye. Brynjar glanced over his shoulder as Elska appeared with Tyr not far behind her. He got a mischievous glint in his eye thinking about what he had in store. Elska looked a little flushed and avoided meeting Brynjar's gaze. She did curtsy low before Jorvik before stepping aside. Lelinus and Ingrid wouldn't be too far behind.

"You look radiant today," Brynjar gazed down at her but she still wouldn't look up at him. He stepped close enough to invade her space but not enough that she felt she had to retreat.

"Thank you, your grace," she murmured demurely.

"I am pleased that you are committed to staying. I must admit a part of me was afraid you might have changed your mind and would be leaving with your people today." He was speaking softly so it was difficult to over hear. She finally met his eye and something steely and hot flashed in her own dark ones.

"I will not abandon my family to your madness." Her lips were in a thin line and barely moved and she whispered to him. He gave her a devilish grin.

"I am not a completely horrible person, at least not as grandly as you've made me out to be." He held a hint of suggestion in his tone and she clenched her jaw.

"I have yet to find any quality that might redeem you or your actions." She said stiffly and turned away. She faced forward and nearly jumped when he had leaned his head down so he could whisper in her ear.

"Give it time, you will see." The words were barely a whisper. To the spectators it looked to be a very intimate conversation. Elska gripped the folds of her dress but refused to look at him. She kept facing forward and didn't dignify him with a response.

"Wise as always my love."

Ingrid sat up in the bed as Lelinus climbed out and began to dress. "My brother was short-sighted to ever refuse your hand and as always, I thank God for his stupidity. I pray her it continues to benefit us."

Ingrid reluctantly swung her legs over the edge of the bed. "I'm sure it will," she replied as she stretched and began dressing herself. "I think I would have been drawn to you regardless of the situation."

Ingrid pulled her tunic over her head, grateful to finally be out of those torture devices the other women at the court were wearing. How on earth those women made it to the end of the day without fainting was beyond Ingrid. She had been feeling light headed after an hour, never mind the entire day. Fashion, she decided, was ridiculous, especially here.




Tyr felt his heart quicken a moment as Elska rested her hand against his chest. "It is not your fault that Ull was killed," she said gently. "He fought as valiantly as any berserker could. The one responsible for his death is to blame, not you." Tyr felt an odd sense of longing as she took her hand away. He had never been one to crave another's touch, he had been an independent child, even when his siblings had been born. He had rarely reached for his mother's hand. This was madness. "You will not lose me Tyr, I can promise you that much. "I know you're worried for me, but I won't change my mind. I'm going to stay."

"I think you might be more stubborn than Ingrid."

"You're father will be departing soon, I am sure he is waiting for you to come to say goodbye." She folded her arms once more close to her body. "We should go," she insisted before turning from him. Tyr frowned, confused by her sudden distance from him, but he followed her nonetheless.

---

Tyr watched, his lips pressed in a thin line, as Jorvik and Brynjar exchanged pleasantries. Elska curtsied before stepping aside. Tyr clasped his father's arm as Jorvik placed a hand on his shoulder. "Take care of your sister lad. Make sure she doesn't kill anyone," he said jovially before pulling Tyr into a hug, clapping his son on the back. "Keep an eye on Brynjar as well. I don't trust the lad," he added, his voice low enough that no one else would be able to hear the words.

Tyr frowned. If Jorvik didn't trust Brynjar, then why on earth would he agree to let Tyr and Elska stay? "Why-"

Jorvik pulled away from the embrace. "I will see you soon enough." Jorvik looked up and saw his daughter coming down into the courtyard. Tyr turned and struggled to suppress a smile as he saw Ingrid dressed like a northmen for the first time in a week. He saw Lelinus not far behind her. Both their faces seemed flushed.

"Sorry to keep you waiting, we couldn't find my belt."

Tyr had to bite his lip to stop the laughter. He raised an eyebrow at his sister as she stepped forward to Jorvik. "You are going to visit?" Ingrid asked Jorvik.

Jorvik mussed her hair. "Not for a while lass, but just try and stop me."

Ingrid threw her arms around Jorvik's neck, burying her face in the furs of his cloak. "I'll miss you."

Jorvik wrapped his arms around Ingrid's waist, and almost lifted her from her feet, one of his hands stroking her hair. "Aye lass, I'll miss you too. No doubt you'll have plenty here to keep you busy. You can start by showing them knights they've got how to fight like real soldiers."

"I don't think even I have that much skill."

Jorvik laughed. "Always modest," he said as he set back down on her feet. "I would tell Lelinus he has to look after you, but I get the feeling you can manage well enough."

"He's been good to me, you don't have anything to worry about."

Jorvik nodded and smiled. "Good." He pressed a kiss to Ingrid's forehead. "You take care of yourself and the whelp you're married to. I'll see you again before you know it." He turned and mounted his horse. Jorvik dropped his gaze onto Lelinus and nodded at the prince. Aye, the Gods had granted Ingrid a good man in him. Sickly and weak, but a good man nonetheless. "Thank you for your hospitality Brynjar, I have no doubt we'll be imposing on you again in the future if my two have anything to do with it." She could have been married to that sore excuse.

Tyr took a step closer to Ingrid as they watched the northmen ride away. "Couldn't find your belt? Is that what we're calling it now?"

Ingrid's arm came out and hit her brother in the gut. "Give over," she was quiet a moment as she put an arm around his waist. She began spelling out a message. Meet here after dinner. "Bring Elska if you can."

Tyr nodded, wondering what his sister was up to that required such secrecy. She was up to something, he knew that much. "I'll see what I can do."njar, I have no doubt we'll be imposing on you again in the future if my two have anything to do with it." She could have been married to that sore excuse.

Tyr took a step closer to Ingrid as they watched the northmen ride away. "Couldn't find your belt? Is that what we're calling it now?"

Ingrid's arm came out and hit her brother in the gut. "Give over," she was quiet a moment as she put an arm around his waist. She began spelling out a message. Meet here after dinner. "Bring Elska if you can."

Tyr nodded, wondering what his sister was up to that required such secrecy. She was up to something, he knew that much. "I'll see what I can do."

Brynjar quirked a brow as Lelinus and Ingrid arrived for the farewell. Both of them had a flush to their cheeks, although Lelinus' seemed more pronounced. Ingrid's excuse was a half-ass one and everyone knew it. Brynjar was irked that his original plan for Lelinus and Ingrid seemed to have been foiled quickly. He didn't understand what it was but the two seemed bonded and connected in a way that shouldn't have happened considering how new their union was.

Ingrid embraced her father and Brynjar took the opportunity look down at Elska who kept her gaze forward. She was refusing to acknowledge him and a subtle grin rose on his face. It was interesting watching the exchanges between Jorvik and his two surviving children. Their relationship was far different than the one he had with his father and brother.

"You seem awfully concentrated on a point in the distance." He murmured barely moving his lips. Elska watched as Jorvik pulled away from Ingrid and mounted his horse.

"I'm trying to determine that if I ignore you, would you simply disappear?" her words were sharp despite their low volume and Brynjar began to chuckle. Her face was impassive and smooth and he had to admit he was impressed by her self control. He had to give her more credit than he originally had. If his plans succeeded then perhaps she wouldn't be a dull companion.

"It was a pleasure to host you and you are always welcome in my home." The words were stiff and formal; they were expected. It was this that gave Elska a chance to look at him. He was imposing and dark. There was a shadow in his eyes that clouded his emotions muddling them together so it was impossible to decipher each one. Elska watched her kinsmen ride away and felt exposed and hollow. Without them they had lost protection. They were a formidable threat in numbers and now Brynjar had three of the most critical players to Fjellborg under his lock and key.

Elska's eyes darted to Tyr and Ingrid as they stood close to each other. It was a bittersweet sight. Without Ull the two looked off balance. The two were comfortable with each other as was indicated by the jab to Tyr's gut. She saw as Ingrid pulled Tyr's hand to her own and was tracing his hand. To anyone looking it was random and a sign of affection between the brother and sister. Elska knew it was a private way they communicated and it made her wonder what Ingrid was thinking.

Brynjar hardly noticed the pair as his posture stiffened with the departure of his late father's guests. Now he no longer had them depleting the stores or tainting the blood of his people. A part of him knew it was a bit hypocritical to think as now Lelinus was tied to their own, and if Brynjar had any say in it he would be tied to Elska. It didn't matter though. Right now it was all about causing discomfort and inflicting pain with as much subtly as he could.

"Lady Elska," he turned to her and she reluctantly took her eyes from her closest friends to look at Brynjar. She felt dwarfed next to his bulk and prayed he never got her completely on her own.

"What can I do for you, your Majesty?" the snip of her words prompted him to step forward and invade her personal space. The look of alarm that crossed her face achieved his goal.

"Would you join me later today, perhaps this evening, for a ride? I want to show you parts of my kingdom. I have a well mannered horse I think that will fit you perfectly." It was almost laughable since they both knew it wasn't really a request but rather a demand.

Elska pursed her lips tightly. "It would be my honor, but don't even think of saddling me with a palfrey mare." She challenged him and he gazed down at her approvingly.

"No?" Elska was a gently bred woman despite her Fjellborg blood. She wasn't the fighter like Ingrid was. Yet there was a hot burning fire beneath her cool facade that Brynjar wanted to tap into. "Then perhaps I can show you the stables now, and then you can pick out a mount suitable for your needs." He suggested.

The thought of extra time spent with him that wasn't necessary made her feel sick. However, if they were riding later in the day she needed to have a horse with spirit and hopefully strong legs incase she had to escape Brynjar. She thought back to the horse she had left at home and suddenly wished she had him there. Byrdain was famous for their warhorses. She had heard stories of the beast--rather, the demon--that Brynjar took into battle. Would that be the same horse he would ride later?

"What do you think?" he prompted when she had been lost in her thoughts.

There was not much for Elska to do at the moment and she didn't want to risk any extra time with Tyr--though her reasons for that were vastly different.

"Very well, let's go." She submitted. He offered his arm and she reluctantly accepted it.