raven ↠ vikings

NINETEEN

No one was surprised when King Horik protested Ragnar's decision to execute Jarl Borg. The King believed that we needed Jarl Borg's men and ships if we were going to return to England. The news that King Ecbert's men attacked King Horik and killed Athelstan spread quickly, and everyone wanted revenge. King Horik's men were getting anxious as they sat around Kattegat with their blades hungry for blood. Giving Jarl Borg the death he deserved was going to be more difficult than Ragnar thought.

My strength was slowly returning. I would have a nasty scar on my left side for the rest of my life, but other than that, I would be back to normal in a few more days. Finally being able to get up and walk around was nice. I wasn't cooped up in my room with Aslaug's fake concern every five minutes. Ubbe and Hvitserk were happy to see me up and moving. They wanted to play with me, but I had to tell them it would be a little longer before I could chase them around again. 

Ragnar's spirits had risen with Jarl Borg captured and under his mercy. I watched as he dangled a rat by its tail in front of Rollo's face. Rollo shook his head and shoved his brother's hand away from him. I clasped my hands together, putting them over the fire as the chilly wind came in from the door. King Horik and his son stepped into the hall. Both of them had impatient expressions on their faces. I didn't like the way King Hori's son, Erlendur, looked me up and down. His eyes lingered on my chest for far too long. 

King Horik didn't even glance at me. I still disliked him and didn't trust him, "Are you going to proceed with the execution of Jarl Borg?" 

"I am," Ragnar didn't hesitate with his answer.

"I understand your reasons. At the same time, without Jarl Borg's ships and warriors, we cannot hope to mount a successful raid on Wessex."

Ragnar didn't seem too concerned, "We will find another ally."

"When?"

"Soon. I have sent out word."

Erlendur's eyes fell on me again as Rollo spoke up to King Horik. That guy needed to stop looking at me like he was imagining me naked. I was imagining punching him in the face, "Are you suggesting that my brother should reprieve Jarl Borg as if nothing has happened? Look at what he did to Raven."

King Horik finally gave me a look, "No. I am merely asking you to stay your hand until another ally is found. The execution of Jarl Borg made public would surely discourage and deter any possible partners." 

Rollo sighed heavily as he looked at his brother. Ragnar twiddled with his knife, "Fine. I shall wait." King Horik appeared to be appeased for the moment. He nodded and turned around. "But at least we are still allies, King Horik." Ragnar's voice had a slight hint of a challenge. 

"I want my revenge on King Ecbert, and I shall have it, come what may," King Horik said before walking away. His son looked at me one last time before leaving after his father.