His Queen

Little Wagon

Grey clouds covered the sky like a thick blanket. It was only midday but there so sign of the sun. Only a grey haze over the land. A cold breeze blew up the skirts of your dress and made loose strands of hair brush against your face. It wasn't too cold though. You only wore a thin cloak that was tied by thick strings by your chest. But you knew once you were sailing on the sea it would be much colder. 

You did not want to sail today but you had no choice. Your father, Asmund, planned for your family to visit his friend King Ragnar and his family. Never meeting the man before only hearing the many stories from not only Asmund but also the locals and those who passed through the Earldom. King Ragnar seemed to be an interesting man but you would judge that when you met him in person.

Your father promised you would not be alone when arriving in Kattegat. Asmund also spoke of Ragnar's young sons. He told you how they would be friends with you right away. Again you did not get your hopes up. 

"Y/N! Darling, it is time to go." Your mother, Ingrid, called for you. Forcing yourself to stand from the boulder you sat upon, you walked towards her an angry pout on your face. But Ingrid was not putting up with such behavior. She grabs your small arm then kneels to be eye level with you.

"Do not make that face. You will be on your best behavior around our friends and their family. Show respect. Understand?" Ingrid had that look in her eyes that you knew better than to question. Not wanting to get yourself into further trouble you nod. 

"Yes, Mother." You say, voice small and low. Ingrid smiles then nods. She stands again holding your hand now and leading you towards the main boat. 

Just as you thought the air was much colder while you sat on the boat and faded the salty water. You wrapped your arms around your small body to keep yourself warm. Asmund draped a fur lined cloak around you then kissed the top of your head. You smile up at him in thanks. 

The journey to Kattegat is short. The boats dock just before the sun is to set. Long banner flags hang from the poles whipping around from the fierce winds. Tall cliffs circle the kingdom as to protect it from outside enemies. Buildings stretch beyond the shoreline for as long as you can see. You thought the Earldom was large but Kattegat proves you wrong. It is truly a sight to see. You understand why everyone would like to live here. 

Asmund is the first to step off the boat, helping Ingrid down then lifting you up and setting you down. You stay close to Ingrid not wanting to wonder away just yet afraid you might become lost in such a vast village.

As Ingrid holds your hand, Asmund walks along the docks until you are standing on solid ground again. Looking ahead you see what could be King Ragnar and his family. They stand together, smiles on all their faces. But your eyes then meet those of a little boy that must be your age sitting in a little wagon. You tilt your head in curiosity. You wonder why he is not standing like everyone else. Maybe he broke a leg or was injured in another way where he cannot walk right now. Tugging on Ingrid's hand, she leans down asking you what is wrong.

"That little boy. Why does he sit in a wagon?" You ask thinking maybe she knows. But instead Ingrid hushes you as if you are being rude. You are confused. What did you say that is wrong? Sighing, you let it go for now planning on just asking the little boy yourself. Just because you are little does not mean you cannot understand things.

"Ragnar! So good to see you, my friend!" Asmund exclaims. The two men embrace each other while Ingrid hugs the woman you think is King Ragnar's wife. She seems very young, younger than Ingrid.

Asmund pulls away from Ragnar motioning you to come forward. You slowly walk towards him so he may place a hand on your shoulder. 

"This is my daughter, Y/N. She is my little fighter. Y/N, this is King Ragnar." Asmund introduces you two. You bow showing respect. Ragnar smiles for he is impressed that you are so smart and well-behaved for such a young girl.