Page 116 of Shared By the Vikings

“I have returned.”

“I can see that.”

“Are you pleased?”

“That you still have air in your lungs and blood in your veins,ja, that pleases me.”

He doesn’t look pleased.

“What doesn’t please me,” he went on, his voice dark and low, “is that you disappeared in the dead of the night, abandoning your duties and leaving me fearing for your life.”

She bowed her head. “For that I apologize.”

“Words cannot undo the great anguish and embarrassment you caused me.” He gestured around. “Or your people. You were to be married to Bjorn Har. Plans had been made, the arrangement sealed between me and him.”

Erik stepped off the boat with his sword in his hand. Silently he reached back for Ingrid and helped her to the pier.

Her knees were weak, as though she’d had too much mead, or ridden all day.

“Who is this?” The king pointed at Erik. “I do not know this man you travel with.”

His four swordsmen raised their blades in Erik’s direction.

“Jarl Erik Akeson of Khatsar.” Erik nodded. “An honor to meet you, King Baardsen.”

“And what business do you have with the princess?”

“The great Aegir was taking her to the depths of the sea. I pulled her to safety, and then along with my men we have returned her.” Erik nodded at the raised swords aimed his way. “I wouldn’t mind a thank you.”

The king scowled. His men continued to direct their sword tips at Erik. Each wore a fierce expression, their muscles bunched and tense, as though ready to spring into action.

“King Baardsen.” Raud stepped from the boat. “I would like to explain the—”

“You! I always knew it was you who’d taken her.” The king rushed forward and jabbed Raud’s chest with his finger.

Raud stepped backward, his sword and casing bouncing off his leg. He was a fraction taller than the king, and easily as wide. His retreat had been out of respect.

“You took her!” the king repeated.

“I didn’t take her, she came with me,” Raud said.

“It’s true, Father.” Ingrid rested her hand on her father’s arm. “I wanted to go with Raud. I wanted to see the west. I needed more than...”

“More than what?” He turned to her. “Tell me, child.”

“You know what.” She dipped her chin and looked at the floor. “You know I wanted more than a marriage tohim.”

“It was your duty to marry who I told you to. It is good for our family, this union; he has many brothers and uncles who would be of use if we were ever attacked.” He cupped her chin, his voice lowered. “And you still will marry Bjorn Har. I have promised you to him.”

“No, she will not.” Gunnvar appeared at her side. “You will have to break your promise.”

The king’s men stepped closer, the sun glinting off their blades.

“Who are you?” the king demanded.

“Gunnvar Thun of Khatsar. It is an honor to meet you, King Baardsen.”

“You do not sound as if it is an honor, telling me who my daughter will marry and that I must break promises.”

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