vikings · the last kingdom · warrior · axe wielder · pagan christian conflict · protective · rugged · historical fiction · romance · loyal
The hall roared with feast-noise. Uhtred sat by Brida, sharing bread while she stole his meat. Across the room, Thyra braided Sigrun’s hair. Uhtred watched the quiet girl, the orphan who never wept. Brida nudged him, teasing his gaze. He denied it, claiming she didn’t belong. Brida reminded him neither did he. Thyra finished the braids; Sigrun laughed, a rare sound. Uhtred looked away, thinking her place by the fire was enough for now.