IVAR, I HAVE SOMETHING TO TELL YOU

Chapter 11

You were beyond ecstatic after your conversation with Prince Sven.

It was as if the weight of the world had been lifted from your soldiers. And though your plan was in direct defiance of Ivar's wishes, you didn't care. All thoughts of him and the potential consequences were miles away.

The only thing you cared about, was putting your little sister to rest appropriately.

Not wasting any precious time, you went straightaway to fetch your mother. Thankfully, much like you, she was a light sleeper. So it did not take long to rouse her. With little Luke on your hip, the two of you then went to Jonah's chamber.

After letting you in, your brother-in-law went returned to where he had been sat. From what you gathered, he was apparently writing bible passages.

It was a common act of defiance by Thralls of your faith. Though it was dangerous, many took it upon themselves to write scriptures from memory. Being a devout man, your brother-in-law volunteered to help keep Christianity alive.

"Please tell me you have eaten something today." You remarked as you took a seat and placed Luke upon your lap. "You are starting to look unwell."

"Thank you for showing concern, Y/N. But you and I both know food has no taste at times like this."

"We are all shaken." Your mother said before pulling a chair beside him. "No one, more-so than I. But it will not help anyone if you waste away. Please. If not for yourself, for your son."

Jonah sighed heavily.

He was overwhelmed by Elizabeth's death and unsure of what the future held. Honestly, the fact that he had not lost his mind was a miracle in itself. Putting the quill down, he ran a hand over his wavy hair and nodded.

"Fine. I will eat evening meal with you both."

It wasn't exactly what you wanted to hear. You had hoped he would take food right away. However, it was a small victory. Turning your attention back Lizzy, you cleared your throat to get their attention.

"As you both know, Ivar has never been keen on our faith." You said as they both looked at you. "In fact, he is quite irrational when it comes to the subject."

Neither Jonah nor your mother interrupted despite their worried expressions. After all, it was no secret that your husband had a great contempt for Christianity.

"But take heart, we shall put Lizzy to rest as per our customs."

"Really?" Your mother exclaimed. "He will allow a Christian burial?"

You hesitated as you shifted Luke in your arms - resting his head resting on your chest.

"Not exactly. Unfortunately, no matter what I said, I couldn't reason with him. In fact, he outright forbid it."

"I'm confused." Noah said as your mother nodded in agreement. "Did you not say we are going to have a Christian service?"

"We are. And Prince Sven is going to help us. But it will require the upmost secrecy." You replied. "He has assured me that his men will take care of everything." Glancing at your brother-in-law, you gave him a reassuring expression. "You must meet him at the main road at sundown."

"For what purpose?" Jonah asked, eager to be of help.

"You are going to show him the location for the graveside. His men will do the rest."

"Forgive me, Y/N." Your mother said. "But, is this not dangerous? When Ivar finds out, there will be hell to pay. I don't care about myself but—–."