The Valley Of Shadows - Ivar and Igor [Vikings]

Curiosity

"So, Ivar, do you really think bringing this child here was a good idea?" Ubbe raised his cup to his lips, but didn't drink it. He was studying the small child with curiosity.

Ivar mirrored his older brother's movements, only taking a small sip of his ale. "Do you think it's not? After what I told you Oleg does to him, hm.."

"Does he understand us?"

"Of course he does, you never asked him." The cripple leaned back in his chair with a stern expression.

Igor watched Ubbe, his eyes never leaving the Viking before him. In comparison, Ivar appeared more dangerous than Ubbe, but that didn't make him easier to trust as he betrayed the same Viking rage and ruthless attitude as Ivar does.

Ubbe equally kept his eyes on Igor, as if he didn't trust him either. "I didn't think he could talk." The older Viking said calmly, careful not to send his brother in one of his unpredictable rages. He could clearly see the boy meant a lot to Ivar.

Ivar fixed his gaze on Ubbe, eyes turning a pale blue as he leaned forward. "You never asked him." He repeated, this time with more rage behind his tone.

"Hmm." Ubbe leaned back against his chair, finally taking a sip of his ale, watching Ivar's every move to make sure he didn't lunge across the table to provoke an attack.

Igor also noticed Ivar's change in behavior. Seeing this side of him unleash on his enemies was familiar to the boy, but he never used it on the child. Igor quietly got up from his chair and sat on Ivar's lap, putting himself between the two Vikings, fearful that a fight might break loose.

Ubbe had no choice but to meet Igor's gaze. "You are afraid of what this Prince Oleg would do if you were to be captured by him, no?"

"Yes." Igor's voice was soft spoken, but shaky. "He is the devil. For you to understand he is like Loki, untrustworthy and cruel."

"I see. Does he know you came to Kattegat with Ivar?"

"I don't think so. But he is looking for us."

Ubbe looked to Ivar for further detail.

Ivar stroked the boy's head. Having him near seemed to calm the pagan and his muscles relaxed. "We fled Kiev after Hvitserk died, I knew there was no chance for the child's safety there, Oleg is hunting us like sheep. It is best if only Odin knows where this child is."

"I cannot guarantee Igor's safety for I am not king. But I will help you, my brother." Ubbe's tone was soft and loving.

"I appreciate it, my brother. If only Bjorn felt the same.. "

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