The Game of Predators and Prey

Blood Stones

trigger warning for sexual assault! Please skip if you are uncomfortable

The wind bit sharply at my cheeks, the strong winds led us to my home. The waves crashed against the hull of the ship. Slapping furiously against the solid wood. We still had a few hours before anchoring in the harbour. My knuckles wrapped deeply around the wooden rails.
"Melti?" Selby patted my shoulder. And I loosened my solid grip on the railing. I never did like sailing much.
"Yes?" I asked and she handed me another robe. My furs currently soaked and frozen with ice.
"King Ivar wanted me to give this to you," I did notice the large robe that the king had dawned only a few days ago. He however was not on this ship.
"Thank you, my robes are frozen," I snickered and shed my wet garments. The anxiety in my stomach churned with every movement of the ship. I was worried about what I would encounter in Windvymere. And I knew I would have to put on a fake face to even get near Erik and Calder. Games like that I was never very good at.

The docks came into view, the same rickety boards and worn trusses. My ship came to a slow halt, Ivar's had just docked before me. And the King had waited for my approach. The waves lapped against the dock and splashed gently over the edge of the ship.

Looking up at Ivar, his legs dawning a newly prepared pair of splints. Which oddly held him up well. Like he wasn't fighting every step, but instead he walked well and with purpose. Carefully, I jumped from the ship to the docks. Ivar waiting for me and he leaned into my ear.
"For us to get to your brothers, you must play along. Understood?" I nodded reluctantly. Even though I didn't trust Ivar in the slightest. He knew awe too well about politics and making men fear him. He strolled ahead of me, my pace slowly keeping me behind him.

Windvymere was the same, cobble stoned walls, brisk sea air but unlike Kattegat. We were not plentiful with fish. The streets were busy with markets like they always were. People who were trading and bargaining were now all focused on the large amount of people that had just docked in their harbour. I smiled at a few of the friendly faces who realized my return. Snickering amongst themselves. My anxiety bubbled at the realization of home, both in anticipation and worry.

Walking into the great hall, my father sat at the head of his table. His large beard bellowing with laughter as Ivar, and Ubbe entered before me.
"Ah Ivar the boneless," he smiled, "what do I deserve this visit?" He was faking, I could see the irritability behind his eyes. Annoyed that we showed up unannounced.
"I heard that you have some issues and I needed the reassurance our deal is still in motion." Ivar claimed, running his hand against the wooden table.
"Why wouldn't it be my lord" My father bellowed with a chuckle. Then my blood ran cold, with my Uncle standing behind my father. His same sick smirk was aimed my way.
"I don't know. Because you mean to banish your heir. That had me a little concerned. Should I not be?" Ivar asked, with a cup in his hand. As he waved to the ale boy.
"No Ivar, he is but an idiot boy. He does not concern our affairs." Ivar grumbled after my fathers words. And with his now full cup of ale, wandered the floor. A little wobbly at first. Ubbe stood somewhat close to me. Keeping my emotions at bay. Because if I were to lash out. It may make Calder's situation worse. Ivar waved a finger in the air. I didn't know what he was planning by doing this. I had no clue what I was going to do once I got here.
"See and that's where I think you're wrong. I feel like your family endeavours do effect our plans." I swallowed hard, the tone in Ivar's voice made me think he had something up his sleeves. My father coughed, clearing his throat from the awkward tension.
"You all must be tired and hungry. We will feast tonight." My father declared, "My slaves will show you to your rooms for now," he mentioned and he nodded at me.
"Daughter," I nodded to be polite but the hatred I had for this man was becoming more and more. Ivar placed the drink down on the table.
"I think we shall drink a bit. My people will unload the ships in the meantime." My fathers eyebrows narrowed.
"You plan to stay?" Ivar's leather vest shrugged with his shoulders.
"Until Melti is pleased, yes," he smiled at me and my father sneered. Pure annoyance radiating from him.
"Daughter?" I glared and before he could address me with more questions. I hurried to the hallway leading to my brothers room.