Page 4 of Shared By the Vikings

“It will not be easy but it will be for the best.” He paused. “It is time for you to put your family first.”

“Of course I will, Father.” She rested her hand on his. “You are my family. I will always put you first.”

“And I you, even if it doesn’t feel like it. Please remember that.”

“Of course.” She frowned. “Why wouldn’t I?”

“You’re all I have and my most treasured possession,” he added.

With the clasp fastened, Ingrid turned. This type of sentiment from her father—the firm but fair, and also feared King Baardsen of Ravndal—was most unusual. “Is there a problem?” She waited, hoping he’d take her into his confidence.

“No.” He shook his head though there was sadness in his blue eyes. “This day was always going to come.”

Ingrid frowned. “I thought you’d be happy. You have a guest from faraway lands visiting. A guest you revere.”

“That makes me both sad and happy.”

She tipped her head. His riddles weren’t making sense. A spindle of unease weaved its way through her thoughts, tugging into a knot that tightened into a fist.

“Come.” He pressed his hand onto the small of her back. “Let’s not keep everyone waiting to see your astounding beauty.”

Chapter Two

Ingrid donned her cloakagain, and with her father, made her way to the great hall. The rain still pelted down, and in the glow of torch flames the puddled ground shimmered pewter.

“I hope Thor will soon need to rest,” the king said. “We have enough water on our land now.”

“Ja. It is sodden.”

The door to the great hall was opened for them and they stepped into the flare of warmth.

The room quieted upon the arrival of King Baardsen and all faces turned their way.

Ingrid stood a pace behind her father and slipped her cloak off; it was quickly taken by a servant. She smoothed her dress then checked the heather in her hair and her mother’s amulet resting below her throat.

“In honor of the gods,” her father said, holding up his arms and beaming at the crowd. “Let us sup good mead and feast on fine food.”

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