Staying

The feast for the celebration of the latest successful raid had began as the story was told in multiple different versions but all painting Ernak, the supposed guest of honour in a glowing light however, as they turned to look for a reaction stopped to see an empty seat causing the guests to begin their search for him and soon realised how he was nowhere in sight, “Ivar check the house, I’ll go sweep the town, Alfhild the stables!” Sigurd spoke before watching the others disperse to look again returned when they had no luck, well all but one had no luck. Alfhild silently opened the stable door to peer in and nodded in acceptance to what she saw but not liking it, in front of her stood a horse saddled with bedding on its rear and seeing the very man they were looking for open the other set of doors pinned the series of notes to the table with a carving knife but he was now aware of her presence watching his movements, “What Alfhild?” “Don’t leave, we need you here. We all do!” “I need to. I don’t want to be here, seeing Ragnor kiss my love and raising a family together, her upset by this whilst you all celebrate FOR her. I want a fresh start!” “We can give you that. Some space and Ragnor... he would never do such a thing. Any affection wouldn’t be shown in front of you!” “I will see her and know that every kiss they share should have been with me, every brat produced from her womb should have been my children and every celebration for their anniversary should have been mine not mine and Astrid’s” “I know son but if you stay I’ll sort out Astrid, you will NOT be marrying her, that’s final” “That isn’t my point, my point is Lagertha is the woman I love and should be with me” “Other women have shown a interest...” Ernak slammed his knife down into the wooden table before yelling, “Just shut up, everything you say makes me want to slit my own throat!” Alfhild cried unsure of what to say before crying, “Please, I don’t want to lose you... you are my son, a boy that has grown into a fine man. You may not have Lagertha but you have a idea of what to work up to!” there was an painful silence between the two as Sigurd entered after overhearing the fiery exchange before laughing Ernak simply shook his head trying to explain, “You still don’t get it. Growing up without an mother and father is hard enough but being what I am is harder, depressing even. I was soo ready to give up trying to fight because of the constant bullying I received; whether I ignored them, retaliated or fought back it was always the same... male or female didn’t matter. Lagertha saw past that and made me feel better about myself, she gave me something and is MY something to keep fighting for. I fell in love with her the moment I saw her; when her family moved here and when I believed I had no chance in hell, she loved me. I thought I was just too lucky for her to notice me but no I was the type of man she liked, it was sympathy at first but we fell in love each passing moment we were together and we were so happy to finally be married. What do I have now to fight for?” as he finished his confidence faded remembering everything that had happened and looking down heard “Family! And the Clan!” Sigurd replied placing his hand on his shoulder causing him to look back up and state, “The ones who screwed me over, lied to my face and care only about their power and themselves? And village who hated me, ridiculed me for their entertainment?” Sigurd fell silent causing Alfhild to comment, “You have Largetha and Torvi as friends at least. As the years past you will be grateful to still have such a great friend!” Ernak slumped against the table before in tears asked, “And me? Sold off to a another woman for securing power? Alone?” Alfhild rushed to hug him as she desperately tried to console the young man.

“There will be another for you!” Alfhild muttered before hearing his response of, “But I want her” “I know son and I just wish it was that simple” she replied before feeling him push her away stated, “Then I leave” Alfhild looked back at her husband who nodding offered, “Look, I am going on a tour around our nearby villages and allies kingdoms; come with me and find someone to fill the void Lagertha has left! Even 2 or 3 if you require them” Ernak shook his head once more before adjusting his bag heard Sigurd grunt and a nodding of his head accepting Ernak’s decision but Alfhild wasn’t ready to give in to what she was hearing, “No! How about a house of your own, away from us or half our treasury; please just don’t go!” “It’s for the best!” he reassured her and nodding Alfhild replied, “How about you protect her. You know that she will be exploited by Erik for his own gains, stay and make sure she is safe!” he looked down at the floor and nodding felt Alfhild’s arm wrap around him to comfort the distraught man, “We’ll make it up to you, I promise!”

Missing years:

As time ticked away Ragnor’s power grew as he began to prepare himself and Lagertha to take over from Sigurd but this was marred by the harsh reality of what Ragnor’s decision had done to those around him. Ernak didn’t spend much time at home anymore and spent his time most days hunting or warring and meals were awkward. Ragnor would try to talk to him but Ernak would often just toy with the meat or answer with quick closed responses. Lagertha tried to reunite the brothers even though she too disliked Ragnor and her in-laws but little changed the situation. Ernak saw himself as the black sheep of the family and despite the family trying to convince him otherwise very little changed his thoughts. Over the time Sigurd tried every avenue known to apologise: money; a lot of it, houses, mead, businesses, his own ship, his own raiding party even other women but Ernak refused and only took Skadi (Alfhild’s horse) and adopted a wolf pup to raise up as his own. When it came to family meetings Ernak also showed very little care knowing a war was a war and diplomacy didn’t really interest him. Alfhild tried her hardest to make it up to Ernak and with that came the “added protection” from her. Erik knew Ernak would react to his comments and openly insulted Ernak’s heritage and family. Alfhild seeing this punished Erik in the only way he would understand and that was either removing money or power. When celebrations happened Ernak was excused and often retreated to his stables or trained his Raven who often stood proudly on his shoulders and Lagertha knowing this often tried to find Ernak to give him company and talk like they used to about gossip and other dreams but even this felt **** and awkward, she hated everything about her life currently and Ernak still being there was the one thing she could cling on to, something she made clear to everyone. Unfortunately bound by duty and marriage to bear children which should have brought the family closer but what it did was the opposite. Alfhild and Sigurd were happy that a child was birthed but as they looked back at the others realised the consequences to it: Erik already planned the child’s rise, Ragnor relief that he fulfilled his requirements and guilt for “impregnating his brother’s lover” , Lagertha disowned the child and tried to explain or say something to Ernak who almost accepting things were never going to work out the way he had hoped walked out not wanting to see the joyous scenes unfold and Lagertha tried to pull herself up to chase after him but was not in a fit state to stop him instead all she could do was glare at the others and Torvi just hated everything about the scene before chasing after Ernak to talk to comfort him.

Alfhild continued her never ending quest to make things right but understood that the child had made things worse and Erik trying to marry him off just irritated her more, “He won’t be married off like your daughter. He’ll marry for love, he deserves it!” but this was merely a way to fool herself that he would finally move on. The one thing that perhaps the family didn’t realise but the villagers did was Ernak’s reputation grew even if he despised diplomacy he accepted it, however whether it was warring or raiding majority of the time he was victorious and Erik like the others struggled to raise an army without his support, to most if Ernak wasn’t fighting it was an bad omen and Ernak’s saying was true: “no matter the cost, we get it done.”

Current day

“Congratulations you two!” Sigurd smiled holding the baby boy in his hands Ragnor smiled feeling the slaps on the back and attempting to kiss his wife saw her disheartened look when she saw the man she had hoped would be there wasn’t and slapping herself snapped, “Stupid, why would he want to be here!” she felt Alfhild lightly tug her arm trying to offer her comfort but nodding pulled the nearby paper and in between tears handed it to Alfhild who reading the name rushed out to find Ernak’s location, “What is it?” Ragnor asked and turning over to her side and away from the crowd spoke, “An apology” The room fell silent and nodding Ragnor slumping in his seat replied, “It must be hard for him to see this. Perhaps… one day he will be happy with someone or we could sort this out! You have my word” “We’ll never will be together not even in ****. Even then we will be separated from each other; me stuck in Helheim and him in Elysium, leave me I wish to rest” the others nodded as Ragnor tried to offer his wife their newborn son but ignoring it she spoke, “Get that thing out of my sight. You have what you want so leave me!”

Meanwhile Alfhild sighed in relief finding Ernak sitting down on a rock not too far away from his stables and handing him the unread note snapped, “You could have at least tried to fake an interest in the baby... she’s beating herself up more than you would believe, believes she has failed you. I told you to mo... what?” “Lagertha’s note. Thank you for your service to my side and being there for me as protector and guardian to my son but we can’t **** ourselves anymore. It’s time we go our separate ways, you on your own path and me stuck here in mine. I won’t forget you, I will cherish your company and love to me. I know this will be as hard you reading it as it was for me writing it but hear this: you are better than them; better than me, Ragnor and better than this village and when the time comes and a woman comes into your life make sure she worships you, don’t take anything less. Farewell my love- Lagertha!” there was silence before throwing the note down Ernak simply stood up to look over the scenery his eyes filled with tears but of what emotion was a uncertain to Alfhild she placed her hand on his shoulder but feeling no reaction from him he simply said, “Ragnor won at the end. He has everything where I’m merely a warrior. It doesn’t matter anymore I suppose...” he looked down before feeling her hand once more pull at him to get her attention heard from Alfhild, “You will find love, I know it even if it’s Freyja herself. You deserve nothing less!” he looked down before stating, “Doesn’t matter. Sigurd has what he wants, a Bastard kissing his ass, a heir with children and me the cleaner, who sorts all his shit out. One day Ragnor will have to become an man and sort is own problems out but until then I am stuck in this endless cycle of torment” “I won’t let this happen, I promise; she will be yours eventually” “And what does she think about herself? I bet you she believes she is worthless and only deserves the crap you threw at her. She would willingly run in to battle not to defend the village but to end it all, even though she knows I wouldn’t allow it” Alfhild sighed before resorting to the only thing she knew left, “Come, let me get you a drink. Maybe we can lessen the pain!” his head slumped once more before shaking it replied, “Doesn’t matter, nothing anymore does!”

The celebration afterwards were glorious but Ernak not wanting to ruin it with awkwardness stayed away to Alfhild’s dismay, she wanted the family be together United, broken in emotion but together however hearing he was back in his stables replacing a horseshoe which was code for him not wanting to be there it made her fully aware of his mindset but this occasion was also marred by Lagertha also not turning up. Alfhild previously had pleaded with Lagertha to speak to Ernak but keeping their distance from each other carried on their normal tasks. “Alfhild where’s Ernak?” Sigurd asked and sighing Alfhild replied, “Probably drinking himself to sleep or eating alone. You know all he cares about is going to Elysium!” “I thought he would want to see his new child that he will be protecting, his godchild!” Ragnor questioned and looking down Alfhild said, “Lagertha dismissed him. Told him not to waste his time anymore and to find someone “Better than her.” Imagine thinking you aren’t good enough for someone who worships the ground you walk on” “He… he was going to teach my children how to fight and think. He is better at that than I will ever be!” Ragnor exclaimed and shaking her head Torvi growled back, “No. Erik said for you to do that so he could drag Lagertha back with you to rub it in Ernak’s face how you two are together and he’s just the babysitter” Ragnor looked down and seeing her father grinning Sigurd growled, “Erik, you even dare and then I will let Ernak butcher you. I am waiting for an excuse as it is” “Father, he will be in my council when I take over as Jarl, Ernak will have to put up with Erik’s… “sense of humour” if he wishes to be part of it as well!” Alfhild looked at her son before shaking his head said, “Ernak would rather kill all the council and stick Erik’s head up your ass or is it your head up his ass.” “Alfhild?!” Sigurd growled and nodding she said, “If he does become part of your council then I will leave and not return. Sigurd if you stayed here then I will end the marriage and take my family’s investment with it” Erik snorted as he claimed, “That’s not worth much!” “No… but Ivar’s clan will now be your enemies once more.”

“Enough!” Sigurd snarled, “Don’t you dare threaten me Alfhild. I may love you but I won’t take **** from anyone. Ernak can’t keep getting a free pass from the family because of who he is and what happened but I will not have you Erik and Ragnor purposely antagonising him!” Erik nodded before shrugging said, “I don’t know why we are making a big issue out of this, he is just a loner to think I have brought my cousin’s niece over to meet him” but being met by a closed punch from Ragnor heard, “It’s your fucking fault for all of this!” Erik laughed before jabbing at the future Jarl replied, “No it’s yours my boy. You chose to have a second baby with her, you chose not to pick anyone else and you have chosen not to free her from the marriage.” Alfhild glared at them before acting as Ernak’s voice piece which she now did from time to time, pushed back any suggestions that Ernak wouldn’t want, “He will not meet her and no deal with be made on his behalf. Sigurd and I have promised he won’t be arranged in marriage to anyone and I have it in writing that when he marries it will be for love. I will not let another backslide deal take place” “It would strengthen our alliances!” Erik urged to Sigurd where he was met with Sigurd yelling, “He isn’t for a sale. He’ll love who he wants to love now back off” Erik sighed before accepting his defeat played his victim card of, “Here I sacrificed my daughter’s happiness to save your kingdom and Ernak won’t even meet an potential wife?! Selfish!” Sigurd went to reply but it was Ragnor who replied first, defending his brother, “Selfish? Selfish? He has helped our clan more times than you have! When he raids he always brings back big riches and takes very little for himself, he has rode out to defend our clan in battles and has often won, he helped take down the Saxon threat and even sent the self proclaimed King of the Danes packing. You just give us money and shitty information!” “My information is a little off I admit!” the table laughed before Sigurd responding to Ragnor’s comment spoke, “He has done more than his fair share, he will find someone eventually even if it’s Freyja herself or what’s her name... Aphrodite? Anyway the point is, whatever happens now until our deaths one thing will remain, Ernak protecting the clan even if it’s for his own reasons and Lagertha well she will never stop loving him no matter how much we all try to turn her head straight. A few more victories and we will have enough security to allow the separation of my son to Lagertha!” Sigurd proudly spoke to which Ragnor nodded but shaking her head Torvi simply spoke, “You’re delusional... Lagertha is damaged goods or that’s what she see’s herself as, she also see’s herself with Ernak as a mistake, her making things worse or cause a mess because she would forever be marked as Ragnor’s, he’s better off with someone unwed and not a mother” “It’s not like that. I know my wife!” Ragnor replied and shaking her head Torvi spoke, “I know my sister. The letter spoke of her accepting her path and letting him go. That is her way of believing that they will never be together because the gods have spoken and has told Ernak to move on. She believes she is the problem. Perhaps she is, I doubt it but either way they won’t be reuniting and your hopes will be for nothing. To be fair I wouldn’t want Lagertha as a “we don’t want her anymore, you have her” and how must Lagertha feel to now she “isn’t required” anymore? You have arranged this marriage so now you deal with the consequences. The best thing you can do is give Lagertha a lot of mead to drown her sorrows and to leave Ernak alone!”

“I feared as much, she see’s herself as worthless or less his value. She is a young woman and still has a lot of years left to enjoy her life, she mustn’t think she can’t be happy because of what is happening now!” Alfhild responded disheartened, “She is better than that, she needs to see this. I, I will make sure she understands that this isn’t a game of worth and when the time comes I will offer anything in reason to compensate the years without him!” Ragnor proposed business like Sigurd nodded before encouraging the positive was met by Torvi negativity of, “You ruined a powerful loving relationship for your own ends and now want to fix it? That’s a bigger insult then leaving it alone. You wrecked their lives but it’s okay now because she isn’t needed they can be together!” Ragnor acknowledged this before asking, “Let me ask you this. We can’t fix what has happened and I can’t change the past but wouldn’t you prefer to see the lovers reunite and try and repair their lives or leave them to suffer?” “I would prefer Ernak happy with another woman and Jarl of this clan or another. If not this clan then this village burnt to the ground, I want fathers head on a spike alongside Sigurd’s and yours that’s what I want! Ernak as Jarl is the better choice, he’s the only successful warrior here and whether he knows it or not I love him.” there was silence between the group who waited for each other to speak but there was nothing this only changed when the nearby people started crying out and scream, “Attack, we are under attack!” “Men to arms!”

“Ernak? What are you doing here?” “It’s okay Ulga, they said you wanted to go and celebrate, I’m here to relieve you!” “Are sure I thought you would want... no never mind, thank you Ernak!” Ernak nodded sitting by the fire to keep warm he watched in silence with his bottle of mead in hand observing nothing but the wildlife up to their usual tricks until he looked up to hear a voice talk to him, “The forests are a peaceful place” “Some would say it helps you think or a perfect place to set an trap! Why don’t you join me voice or am I purely drunk!” “You’re not drunk just haven’t opened your mind to what is in front of you. Take another mouthful and see!” he sighed before obliging the voice looked around to see the faint outline of an woman next to him, so taking an bigger mouthful saw enough of it to address her, “Want a drink?” “No I’m fine. I’ll just enjoy the forest life!” he nodded staring at her and recognising the bow stored on her back asked, “Artemis?” “Yes.” “What are you doing here?” “I have just came to say goodbye, my memory stream is drawing to its end. I have passed on everything I have witnessed and everything I know” “Wait this was over millenniums ago, what happened after?” she shifted uneasily before replying, “I never told you did I? Me being a virgin? Well for these memories I were, however when the world was going to be destroyed and I wasn’t likely to survive I thought why not?! It doesn’t matter anymore... I found comfort in another lonely Isu called Thanatos, the Isu got angry at us but let it slide considering the other more important matters, I birthed twins; a son and a daughter, I don’t know what happened after because the memories stop after the early years of the children but I know Logos, my son was granted it... a warning: he his violent and his memories will feel familiar, accept it and learn, I feel he will be more important than any of us could imagine, a child born with his father’s personality, my abilities and educated by Ares and Athena but flawed!” “Flawed? What do you mean flawed?” “You’ll find out. Alas my time is growing short. Remember with my knowledge and lessons that I’ll always be with you!” he nodded before stating, “I don’t want you to go, you understand me, the others don’t!” “Of course I would, I always did understand my children’s problems but a parting gift to you. I have brought someone here to see you!” “Children?! Artemis wait!”

“Ernak what’s wrong?” Lagertha asked walking forward into the light and shrugging he spoke smiling weakly, “Nothing, just too much to drink, I think!” she nodded and beckoning her closer she took a seat a fair distance away almost like she was plagued but rolling the bottle over to her offered, “Here you look like you need it more than me!” she opened the top and taking a mouthful asked, “Not going to ask me how the baby is?” he shook his head before commenting, “No, often the concern is the baby; I for one don’t care, I’m more concerned for you. Are you well enough to be out in the cold?” she nodded before shrugging stated, “Probably not!” he nodded removing his cloak and handing it to her replied, “I won’t have the family claiming I don’t look after the future queen. Take it and that’s an order!” she tried to refuse it but nodding replied, “I saw you weren’t present for the birth” “Am I obliged to be?” he frankly spoke but shaking her head she sheepishly replied, “I wanted to hold your hand; holding it makes me feel safe, it was either Ragnor’s flapping hand or Alfhild annoying ‘I’m here for both my sons’ hand” “Who did you choose?” “Torvi’s ‘I rather be hanging out with or kissing Ernak’ hand!” he nodded before asking, “How is the child, as long as it’s well that’s what matters!” “It’s fine I hear. Ragnor is the wet nurse, I rather go out and be left alone. It’s bad enough having to fulfil my duty with the rat but he isn’t even good in bed! It’s more of me saying: Hurry up and get this done, so I can go out and drink the memory away!” “Haven’t tried to spice it up?” “Everything you can think of... it’s the family’s way of trying to bring us together. They even told Ragnor to roll around in the stables in hope it was that scent that drew me to you. He even role-played wearing your armour and tried to act like you!” Ernak laughed before taking another bottle from behind the log he was leaning against asked, “What happened?” “Where do you think he got that wound on his shoulder from. My knife straight through it! Ass” “The family never understood it. I tried to explain it to them multiple times but they think: a brand new house, an army, endless coin and anything else will make it better. I don’t know about you but I can’t be bought off” “I used to demand things they would never give me. My idea was an nice warm island, just you and me, with everything we needed to survive and endless sex, happy and carefree but then my demands are simple: Erik’s head and you as Jarl with me as your wife, Sigurd and the rest of the family exiled to Britain but then the second child was born and I’m not even worthy of you. I’m just a useful tool to my father!” “You’re more than that. You don’t see your value and Erik see’s it all too much. You could claim power for yourself and not many would complain, you could lead an army to Valhalla and back, you still have a life ahead; we may not be together but you can still do great things with the life you have” “All I can hope for in life is my children to be like you and not Ragnor!” “If that was the case it would be funny to see Ragnor react seeing their darkened skin and the family’s shame!” “It would make it worthwhile though. I hate him and I don’t care if he is your brother, weak little bastard!” Ernak nodded before asking, “So is this why you are out here?” “I could ask you the same question...” “I’m out here because I dislike big celebrations and Ulga wanted to go drinking, you?” she sighed before drinking another mouthful replied, “I just can’t be there anymore. I needed to get out it’s all “Your son looks great’ or ‘people want to see the couple with the child’ or even ‘Come and celebrate!’ I don’t have anything to cheer about so why don’t they just leave me alone! I wanted to go for a walk alone and peaceful but I noticed you calling out and grew concerned!”

“Your letter didn’t think that!” Ernak replied quickly changing the subject, “You foolish Hun, I wrote that letter because I care for you. I wanted you to move on and find someone who would love you for you not wait for me to become available!” he grabbed the note and throwing it into the fire replied, “I don’t believe in these fates that you do. If we are wished to be together then we will be, it may not be now or the next few years but we will be reunited eventually even if it’s in ****!” she nodded taking his arm before stating, “I’m soo sorry for this, we should be there celebrating our child and our marriage. I failed you!” “No it was I who failed you. If I wasn’t soo proud I could have told Sigurd and Alfhild. If I did then they would have at least known of us and refused it. Me not telling them caused this!” her head lowered nodding before changing the subject joked, “Can I headbutt Sigurd after we are together?” “Can I kick your father in the nuts with spiked shoes?” “Agreed but after I have hit him with a bottle!” they both laughed looking into each other’s eyes, leaning in closer to each other so their breath brushed alongside the others face, his hand held the back of her head to ease her closer to his lips and for the first time in over two years she relaxed when a man’s lips closed in to hers but this was going all to well and much like every incident before almost as if someone was doing this on purpose they were **** apart by the cry of villagers and the first house being set ablaze, “Lagertha take the children and bring the civilians to safety!” “Fuck the children, I want to fight alongside you!” “Just do it Lagertha please. If you want to fight do it after everyone else is safe! Please!” she nodded before pulling his arm spoke, “Please don’t get yourself killed!” he flicked his wrist and seeing the blade slide out Ernak spoke, “I will be silent until the right time!”

Ernak rushed back in to the village and diving for cover looked over to see the battle commence whilst civilians tried desperately to get out of the way he slid from his cover and walking up to the nearest warriors who were holding people hostage felt the blades go through their throats, one cut of the binds and they picked their weapons back up to join the fight, “Ernak what happened?” “I don’t know, follow me!” they followed him as he walked around the back using well timed arrow shots to bring down other enemies and to increase his band of warriors, “I don’t know, I went on guard and it was clear, nothing but wildlife, they must have come from the west side!” “But that is where Erik’s cousin was staying there!” “With his band of warriors...” Ernak trailed off picking a dead warriors spear and throwing it into an enemies back, “Says it all!” Odar spoke cleaning his axe, “So what’s the plan?” “Where is the Jarl and the Mighty Ragnor? Too drunk celebrating another Bastards birth is it?” Ernak snapped, “Ernak this isn’t the time. We are under attack. What’s the plan?” Ulga snapped picking up a discarded shield, “I assume they are in the longhouse. So we need to reclaim it. From what I can recall Erik’s cousin which I didn’t really care to listen to his name, so we will call him turd. Anyway Turd’s men was an small band of warriors, I think we do this... we scout around and help boost our number. We will then lead an attack on the Longhouse. Turd will likely be in there bragging or killing the family, hopefully he is waiting for me to show up” “So you are expecting an trap and still want to go in there. We could starve them out, we follow you over them anyway!” “Look, if I did ever decide to become Jarl this isn’t how I want it to happen. Now listen! You launch the attack, now he will have to send men out to fight; I’ll scale the roof and enter via the top and clear them out and confront turd!” “How are you going to do that, the fall could kill you, never mind the number disadvantage!” “Then hurry up and kill them, besides I learned a few skills off an group who specialise in stealth. Turns out killing one of their best warriors earns respect and a gift and Ulga, don’t let Lagertha in.”

The group expanded with every able man ready to fight and crouching down next to their leader Ulga now reunited with his wife Helga asked, “How do we handle this? They are clearly expecting us!” Ernak handed them a few of his arrows and pointing to the nearby mead jars commented, “These arrows explode on contact, aim for the jars and it will burn everyone in close proximity! Just wait until a group forms. I’ll scale around!” they nodded before scaling around the side assassinated the nearest guard quickly began to scale the roof seeing the others begin the attack and nodding saw his chance to make a undisturbed climb to the top to look on in at the scene. “The dogs come!” the leader spoke, his sword resting against his shoulder before addressing his cousin stated, “Erik, I listened to your proposal and have decided against it!” “Why not Gorm?” “My adopted daughter was okay with my the offer but after one of your ships raided my village I used this to get my ****, for my sister and her son!” “Fucking Ernak!” Erik barked being met by a jab to the face from Gorm who shaking his head to speak it was Ragnor however who confessed, “It was me... Ernak never raids neighbours to avoid this sort of thing. I never listened!” “Stupid boy!” Erik snapped before pleading to Gorm, “Look, let us go and we will offer you our best warrior, Ernak!” “Yes Ernak where is the last member of your family, I don’t see him!” “Gorm, they have launched a counter attack!” “Good Ubba, tell me is Ernak there?” “I think so, they have ambushed us and used flaming arrows!” Gorm smiled before stating, “Capture him and bring him here, I want to be the one to slay the ‘Örlendr.’”

The men rushed to aid their fellow warriors and seeing the reduced number Ernak climbed onto the frame and walked across beams before flicking his wrist leapt down onto the first guard to execute the kill, he then threw the dropped axe into the next guard, picked the other two axes up and flung them into the next two guards before turning back around to face Gorm who smiling spoke, “Örlendr, so now we meet!” “I’m sorry if I disappoint you!” he laughed before holding his sword up stated, “No but I was expecting you to be taller for an god!” Ernak drew his swords and offering him an compromise spoke, “Let them go and you can have 70% of the treasury and Erik!” “I’ll take his eldest daughter, I heard she is very fertile!” Ernak growled before spitting at him growled, “Watch your mouth bastard!” “Touched a nerve did I? Orm bring her out!” Ernak looked over as the giant of an male dragged Lagertha out holding his knife to her throat and stopping close enough to strike Ernak acknowledged it was too risky to strike, “Here’s my offer, die with no honour and she’ll walk free, surrender and in **** know she and the others will be unharmed or fight and she’ll die by Orm’s hand!” Ernak took another look and contemplating it heard Lagertha plead, “Don’t do it Ernak, fight!” “I will not let you go to Helheim even if it means sacrificing my path to Elysium!” “You won’t see your family again!” Alfhild cried and nodding Ernak shrugged, “What am I? Just the black sheep of the family!” “You are my son and always will be!” Sigurd spoke nodding to Ernak who falling to his knees lowered his weapons to the floor taking an last look at Lagertha winking as she looked to see his hands clench the dirt. “They may not see it but you did the right thing and my saga will grow ever more!” Gorm bragged, “Yes but my story will continue. They will remember my sacrifice not your slaying of me, this... this isn’t how legends are born!” Ernak spoke taking an breath. He looked up and seeing the sword being lifted above Gorm’s head smiled as he rolled out of the way hearing the cry as Lagertha punched her capturer in the penis and throwing dirt into his eyes Ernak threw his axe into Odm’s head and trying to pick his sword up felt the sword pierce his chest, he looked down and seeing the blade penetrate right through heard Gorm cheer, “I did it, I’m a legend killer!” Ernak lifted his hand and closing his eyes with his last conscious action flicked his wrist sending the blade through Gorm’s throat before falling to floor alongside his murderer felt Gorm’s blade fall deeper into his chest.

“No, no, no Ernak please, please. Not you, not now!” Lagertha cried rushing to the blooded body, Sigurd pulled himself up and rushing to his son yelled to Gorm’s daughter, “Cut my binds, please!” “I...I...I... didn’t want this to happen!” Alfhild rolled over to the group wailing so the others from the outside could now hear and Ragnor sliding an knife over to her spoke, “Please, no repercussions will fall upon you! Just let us hold him” she nodded cutting his ropes then the others until she dropped the knife on seeing the bloody mess. By now the others rushed in and joining in the mourning tried desperately to apply pressure to the wound, “Please, you promised me we would be together don’t do this to me. We were meant to be happy, you promised me!” Alfhild felt the pulse stop and comforting her whispered, “I’m sorry he’s gone!” Lagertha shrieked before grabbing Ernak’s axe yelled, “It’s your fault, it always has been! You selfish bastard” Ragnor looked in horror seeing her storm towards him but being tackled to the ground by four warriors they tore the weapon from her now pure weeping person, “I’m sorry love!” Ragnor muttered accepting it was his actions that caused this before looking over to his grieving mother being held by his distant father saw Torvi check the bodies pulse and not feeling it had to check twice seeing an shallow breathe be taken by it, “What in the gods? Ulga fetch the healer and summon the Seer!” “Why the Seer?!” Ulga snapped rushing to the door, “Don’t argue just do it!” Sigurd looked over to her and now seeing another shallow breath heard Lagertha cry, “Why?!” “Because I think he is somehow alive!”

The room was dark almost cloudy like and Ernak holding his swords walked forward hoping to find something to help him, “Is this Helheim? Asgard? Elysium? Home of Hades?” he took another step forward before seeing the golden light in front of him walked stopping a few metres away seeing it was his bow waiting for him. He walked cautiously forward before stopping a few metres when he saw the light grow brighter to now reveal the glowing figure opposite him, “Who are you?” “Did mother not tell you? Say I was flawed but she still loved me?” “Logos? but I’m dead!” “I’m sorry about that but it’s merely temporary, the bow will heal you like it did me; I had to do it. I had to pass my knowledge onto you somehow, in this state we are joined as one and my memories will begin. Remember my life and learn what you have forgotten!” “Remember? Forgotten? What is this? Where’s Elysium?” “You will get the answers you seek eventually but for now there’s work to be done and when you awake, you will understand why this has happened!” “Why would I?” “Because then you will realise that there is a reason for everything and find out that is was always going to work out. Now close your eyes and sleep!” Ernak’s eyes fell heavy and falling to the floor Logos simply spoke, “This time we have gotten it right. Lovers reunited to stop our common foe, Loki.”

“Leif how is he?” Alfhild questioned waiting outside next to the others outside the room with only Lagertha being inside with him, “His heart’s beating but his pulse... well there isn’t one. I don’t know how he’s alive but I expect he wouldn’t want it any other way, Lagertha moping over him; I’d bet he would be mocking her for worrying that much” “Is he awake?” Ragnor worried and shaking his head Leif bluntly spoke, “He should be dead. So him waking up would be an miracle; if this is his last few hours then say your goodbyes.” Erik looked into the room before stating to the group, “Apart for Torvi not being there that is all he ever wanted, Lagertha in bed with him” Alfhild looked in before looking to Torvi spoke, “Go and join them, I know you wanted to be in Lagetha’s place, always have” Torvi nodded opening the door and seeing the eyes of Lagertha stare upon her looked cautiously back at her sister who now simply nodding as she tapped the bed spoke, “Come on.”

Ernak’s eyes snapped open and standing up saw Logos younger in body but still clearly recognisable in every other feature, he looked in as he just stood there frozen in time until he heard Logos walk up behind him seeing the memory waiting for them, “It’s your memory to remember!” “I still don’t understand Logos!” Ernak replied and pointing to the figure he replied, “You will understand, maybe not now but you will. All you have to do is take your place and learn!” Ernak looked over to where the hand was pointing before taking an step forward asked, “Where will you be?” he didn’t move but watching the image Ernak got the point as he took another step forward and lightly touching the people felt the scene, he was now standing there as the character and looking up saw the bearded Isu begin to speak.

“Artemis, he is flawed!” “Please Zeus, give us a chance. We’ll teach him our ways!” “He has killed your brother, YOUR BROTHER. Claimed he was abusing the humans! It’s our right to rule and do what we see fit over the humans. We do not defend them!” “He was young... didn’t know” Thanatos pleaded but shaking his head Zeus spoke, “No. Whose’s next? Me? You? Nyx? Hermes? We can’t wait for him to pick us off one by one. It’s bad enough he shows more of his fathers characteristics than his mothers, Frontída is fine and she may not agree with our treatment of them but understands the hierarchical system!” “I will try, perhaps with Athena’s teachings...” “I’m sorry Logos but you are too much of an risk to us!” I looked down before hearing the rushing feet of his twin rush in she fell to her knees pleading, “Please give him a chance, please!” “Will you do anything?” Zeus hinted aiming to get an reaction from Logos who felt Thanatos pull his arm back to stop him charging, “Breathe son!” Artemis whispered and leaning in to her ear he simply responded with, “This is why I hate him! Fucking pervert” Artemis smirked before lightly tapping his back to calm it Frontída looked up giving the king puppy eyes, “Please Sire, I would be soo upset without him here!” “Fine. Send him to Athena straight away! If he even touches another god he is out of here!”

The scene faded away and now back in his own body Ernak commented, “Similar to my time here” Logos walked forward to join him as the permanent image stood frozen of Zeus giving him permission to stay and he being dragged off to Athena’s temple, “We are alike, not wanted and we don’t fit in, an outcast in a place we call home but yet we remain...” “So your flaw was caring?” “Humans were treated bad as slaves, Isu’s would use them and simply find them expendable, I do not. They are a part of our lives and valuable; if we do not stand by them and care for them they will rebel and and cause a lot more trouble which only ends bad for them. They are beaten, killed for amusement and even ****, I do not support this.” Ernak laughed lightly before looking over to him replied, “Just like me, most of my ship were Thralls fighting for their freedom! All now free but loyal” he looked over to Ernak before pushing him forward spoke, “Come there is much to learn!”

The next memory seemed to shift forward a few years but yet continued on from the prior, the woman Ernak assumed was Athena was standing up with a scripture and leaning back on his seat was Logos, who seemed to be relaxed but ready to question everything put to him. Ernak looked over before feeling an nudge sat on the seat so the memory would play, “Our bloodline is what matters, we are the creators of the world for the humans, they depend on us, depend on our mercy!” “Exactly, OUR MERCY. This instigates we are going to hurt them; they fear that whatever they do it isn’t enough!” “We let them live, they were created for this purpose!” “Then why give them free will? Why give them a mind to think? Emotions to feel?” she paused before considering it replied, “I don’t know, I used to think it was to make them more living, to understand their importance but I don’t know anymore. Perhaps it was only designed to be temporary but their reproduction system prevents this from being removed. What you must remember even if it’s not what you believe is our blood is superior and we must preserve it at all costs!” “Then why haven’t you preserved it? I don’t see no Isu children coming from you...” “That’s... that’s different, I’m not included because of reasons” “Reasons?” “Look let’s just say that my role and my relationship with my father prevents it...” “And you have never contemplated it?” “Multiple times, just to see why people indulge in it soo much but I know my role and I understand my requirements, shall we move on to what you can and can not do with both fellow Isu and humans and what you can do to improve it?” “One more question...” “What?” “Why not try it? It seems like you are using “It’s my duty as an excuse?” she sighed before turning back replied, “If I did, Zeus would punish the man responsible for taking my virginity, blame them for my choice, I can’t let them be put in such a position!”

There was silence for a few moments whilst Logos waited for her to get the next note before smirking as her hips swayed her crept up behind her waiting to pounce. One quick movement and pinning her to the desk his lips began to desperately kiss and nibble at her neck whilst his arms acted as a way to keep her in place, she studied her situation and acknowledging she was stuck tried to immediately talk him out of it, “Logos, you don’t want to do this, even if you are joking, you are already in Zeus’ bad books... if someone see’s us like this Zeus will kill you!” Logos laughed cupping her cheek before kissing her lips whispered, “You said you can’t put a man in the position, I’m already in that position. I can do everything he wants of me and he will still hate me. This is your chance to satisfy your curiosity!” his hands lessened his grip to free her and taking his in hers she quickly looked around and nodded, “I’ll try my best to protect you afterwards!” he shrugged before stating, “It doesn’t matter what he says, let me show you what you have been missing.”

It was the first time he had seen Athena’s quarters, the room was full of book’s and paper but surprisingly also had art, a lot of it, if they weren’t in the middle of something, Logos may of had time to study some of it. Their lips locked together cautiously from Athena who shivered feeling the man’s hands on her, Athena’s confidence began to grow and removing her dress hesitantly froze when she realised what she had done, he laughed breaking the kiss and removing his shirt and trousers returned to her side, she kissed him again trying to go back on her idea and knowing this Logos took the next step. He pulled his pants off and revealing his semi-hard cock spoke, “Come and join me!” she hesitated before peeling her underwear off blushed as he stared at her, taking in her looks; she looked down but feeling his arms hug her bare body she smiled looking back into his eyes as she felt his cock lightly brush against her backside, “What do I do?” she gasped feeling his hands venture to her breasts and kissing each one he spoke, “Follow my lead.”

A few moments after teaching her the importance of lubrication and after a partial painful experience Athena found herself slowly ease herself onto his cock, she knew it would be painful but she wanted to feel his entire size penetrate her, fulfilling her request and supply the pleasure and also allowed her to control the tempo that it was conducted at, by now her hair was undone from its style and falling over her shoulders and back, his hands grabbed her waist and squeezing her bum and letting the self enforced gag from her mouth she let her cries out, she teased her nipples with her delicate fingers and kissing his waiting lips began to sped up her rhythm to Logos’ surprise as she grew closer and closer to her desired end before stopping grunted when she felt her first ever orgasm, she fell to the covers and upon seeing him still hard and straining to be free she puffed, “I’m sorry... just give me a few...” he interrupted her with a kiss to her head before giving her another whispered, “I can wait, sleep now; we can continue this tomorrow” “Tomorrow?” “You are teaching me this crap, I will teach you something we will both enjoy; then you can judge whether it was worth it or not” she nodded before pulling herself closer to him she repeated from earlier, “I’ll try my best to protect you after all this!” he nodded before kissing her muttered, “He can’t stop you anymore, remember that!”

The image shifted to the next morning or by the sound of it a few weeks later and looking down from the desk Logos smirked seeing Athena happily sucking away at his cock whilst he studied the ridiculous propaganda in front of him. However Athena’s tutoring provided a lot of “motivation” and as Ernak leaned back experiencing the life of Logos smiled groaning as he saw the images of the previously weeks and his suspicions were well justified, they had tried a lot of things in a few weeks and Athena loved the freedom of choice something she hadn’t had for centuries, it was always ‘wise decisions’ but now she had let herself be taken up in the moment which could only mean bad things were about to take place.

Athena bobbed her head happily over the cock smirking as she acknowledged Logos was close and leaning back to experience the shower of cum cover her bare breasts and face froze stiff as Hera walked in to see Athena’s salivate the warm liquid cover her body, “Athena?!” “Hera its... well it is what you are thinking” “Athena you know you role!” Hera reminded and nodding Athena spoke, “I know but as I helped him, he helped me. Let me explain...” “Explain yourself to Zeus. Both of you!” she looked over to Logos before stating, “This will be the end of potential forgiveness that Zeus has for you!” she looked away in disgust and nodding Logos replied asked, “Athena, don’t worry, I was never looking for forgiveness!” she leaned in to him and whispered, “Let me handle this. Trust me, no harm will fall upon you!” “Alright Athena, I trust you!” “How about you replay my favour?” she replied distracting the younger man and upon seeing her dress fall to the ground he simply smirked before falling to his knees for her.

“Overconfidence can catch even the wisest off guard...” Logos stated loading the next memory, “And here I thought this what just you showing off who you had in bed” “Focus! I need you to focus!” Ernak sighed before nodding replied, “ I know first hand the consequences of overconfidence by those who have power. Lagertha and Ragnor’s arranged marriage was meant to be stopped and renegotiated but she failed, why? Is this what you are trying to show me? That we are alike?” the next memory loaded and stepping forward Ernak saw a room and on his throne was Zeus, “Time for an lecture” Ernak mumbled waiting for the memory to play. “I’ve had enough of you Logos, you flawed mess!” “Leave him alone!” Athena yelled back to her father, “I choose to have sex with him, I chose to lose my virginity and I chose to risk my abilities and position, take it out on me; not him!” “His penis entered you, I see that as his fault!” “Zeus darling, let’s see what they have to say!” Hera offered comforting her angry husband, “I wish to court him” Athena spoke frankly not cowering when Zeus yelled and marched towards her, “You what?” “Listen father, I know what Logos is like, hell I’ve taught him long enough to know him. Let me court him and in exchange Logos will: not kill any more of us, he will behave among other Isu’s and won’t challenge your orders again!” Athena explained, “That would work!” Hera offered but shaking his head Zeus replied, “No!” “Father please... you always asked me what do I want and you promised to deliver it for me. Well I want Logos!” “Out of the question” Zeus replied but compromising Zeus responded with, “However, I won’t punish you like I should. Athena return to your temple and Logos... there’s only one way to change your thinking process of us Isu and that’s hardening him via the army, you will go to the army and soon learn the humans don’t care about us, guards take him away!” Athena hugged Logos before kissing his cheek whispered, “This isn’t over yet you wait and see!”

“Hmm, that was pretty weak of you. I didn’t see the fire inside of you like I did!” Ernak spoke and nodding Logos replied, “It was a lost cause, Zeus had his mind made up and snapping gave him something he wanted” “Is it over between you two?” Logos nodded before responding, “It turns out that Zeus as we already knew was an massive bastard and what he did had consequences. Athena tried for months to free me but it later came to her pleading just to have some freedom of choice. Zeus refused this and what remained was an woman who understood she could never be free from her fathers control. Unfortunately a few months later Hera found Athena laying dead in her bed with the words “The only way I will get my freedom!” on a note. It caused uproar and of course the blame game to start. Zeus blamed everyone else but many weren’t so willing to acknowledge his reasons. It was too late however, Hera issued my release but I was already gone; I had anger in my heart; I was coming for him and the longer I waited the more who would die! I always said fuck the self entitled Isu’s!”

“Any change?” Alfhild queried taking over from Torvi who was watching over both Ernak’s but also Lagertha who laid on the floor next to the wounded man, “Nothing apart for that sleeping draft to put Lagertha to sleep. His pulse is very weak but his heart beats inconsistently but it beats, the herbs and medicine doesn’t seem to help much something else is seeming to be aiding his recovery. How’s Ragnor?” “Beating himself up over it. Arguing with everyone and anyone blaming himself but also everyone else. It’s a constant cycle of Erik blaming Ragnor, Ragnor blaming Erik and himself, Sigurd blaming them both and both of them blaming Sigurd for allowing such an large number of people into his kingdom which Sigurd responds by blaming Erik for having ‘too much’ faith in them. Erik piles the pressure onto Ragnor believing if he listened to Ernak none of this would of happened and they would have an new ally. Ragnor blames himself for not listening to Ernak but yet Erik for not checking the situation in Gorm’s land and for welcoming in soo opened armed that this was always an problem. Sigurd wants to **** Erik but is only restrained by his fellow council members who want Ragnor stripped of his inheritance and handed over to Ernak who they deem is the wiser and smarter warrior but also has the backing of the town which the rest of us don’t. The council want to also take Torvi in as political prisoner, to strip Lagertha of all power and Erik to be kept under house arrest until they find a way to strip everything they can off of him” “How dare they do that to me, I stood by Sigurd, I stand by Ernak and you. I shouldn’t have to deal with Erik’s fault!” “I’ve talked to the council members about it and they have agreed to let you stay with Ernak when he wakes up!” “It’s better than nothing and he won’t treat me like shit!” “Exactly! What did the Seer say?” “Well Ernak was experiencing hallucinations and hearing voices apparently from a Greek God called Artemis but it wasn’t conversations like we are having now it was more like she was teaching him things and he was experience her memories, Lagertha confirmed this was still the case before Gorm attacked, he never spoke to Lagertha about it or the others in case you thought he was mad but somehow when he told me it seemed familiar to me like I have heard this before. The Seer has heard of this and believes she knows why he is still alive and why he hasn’t awoken yet. She told me of how visions and memories are passed on: sometimes it’s via real life experiences mimicking and previous life, sometimes it’s via **** and potion and sometimes it’s passed on via dreams. She seem’s to be more open to talking to me but isn’t willing to reveal me everything, apparently she isn’t sure on me yet. Whatever does that mean?” “She won’t talk to me or Sigurd either?” “I feel like we aren’t meant to know, it’s only for Ernak and who he see’s fit to tell” “I want answers, not riddles!” “We both do but for now I suggest you focus on the family not destroying itself and I with Lagertha focus on Ernak’s condition!” Alfhild nodded before opening the door hearing the family quarrel once again, “I’d better go...” “Yeah, yeah go before they burn the house down.”