Warriors at Heart (The Last Kingdom Fanfic)

Chapter 33

Alfred made camp in Wilton on a hill. We all stood outside his tent as we watched the Danes' approach. I instantly recognized Guthrum and was surprised to see Ubba with him.

"What's Ubba doing here in the South?" I whispered in Danish to Uhtred.

"Nothing good," Uhtred contemplated.

"They're going to ask for your head," I whispered back.

"Alfred won't give it to them," Uhtred said confidently.

"How can you be sure?" I replied, clearly more concerned than Uhtred about his wellbeing.

"I know it," he replied.

"Oh, that is so comforting," I hissed back.

"Oi, what are you two whispering?" The big man Leofric shouted at us.

"I don't believe that's any of your business," Uhtred shot back.

"Two Danes in my king's court when he's about to negotiate with other Danes makes it my business," Leofric glared at us.

"Easy Leofric," Alfred intervened. "Uhtred that is Guthrum?" he asked, pointing to the bulky long brown-haired Dane.

"Aye my lord," Uhtred replied obediently.

"What is that in his hair?" Alfred asked.

"His mother's rib," I smiled wickedly.

"How, endearing." Alfred looked disgusted. "And who is that man?" Alfred pointed to the blonde hair Dane walking a few paces behind Guthrum.

"That's Earl Ubba," Uhtred replied, eyeing Ubba with care.

"The famed Earl Ubba. Should he not be north?" Alfred asked.

"It is good he's here. It proves Guthrum is weak," Uhtred replied.

I eyed him unsure if this was actually a good thing, but Alfred seemed to understand the reasoning and relaxed a bit more. "Well, we mustn't keep our guests waiting."

Alfred and all of his men began to make their way down the hill to where Guthrum and Ubba waited with their entourage. I glanced at Uhtred. "I sure hope you know what you're doing."

"Woman, you worry too much," he laughed, slapping me on the back and wrapping his arm round my shoulder as we followed the others down.

~~~~

Guthrum stood grimly looking us all over. Ubba remained seated behind him, his cold eyes watching every move anyone made. Alfred cleared his throat slightly as he cautiously approached. I noted that Barth stood behind Ubba, his hand on his weapon. He glanced at me in amusement. I narrowed my eyes and curled my lip at him and tore my gaze away before anyone could misconstrue the situation and all-out war broke loose.

Guthrum silently studied Alfred, waiting for the small man to speak. I say small, for Guthrum was large and stocky, towering a good head or two over the frail pale king. Though, I must admit, Alfred held his own against Guthrum. He remained calm and in control despite the large intimidating presence before him.

"Lord Guthrum," Alfred began.

"And you are?" Guthrum shot back rather aggressively.

"King Alfred of Wessex."

"What happened to the other king?" Guthrum smirked, and many Danes chortled.

"It seems God decided it was his time to go," Alfred replied calmly.

"Ow, harsh way to speak of one's brother's death," I whispered to Uhtred who immediately shushed me, though I saw a small smile creeping at the side of his lips.