Northern Lights: A Norse Saga (closed for a_libertine and naughtycammy)

[naughtycammy]

Runa Svensson released a sigh of relief as the door closed behind her, happy to finally get away from all the hustle and bustle that seemed to fill every other room. The peace and quiet of her own chamber somewhat soothed her troubled spirits, and with another sigh the girl crossed to her dressing table and began to divest herself of the gold trinkets which adorned her arms, ears, throat, waist, and fingers. Runa paused as she looked down upon her left hand, the new betrothal ring upon her third finger sparkling arrogantly in the flickering firelight. That is what her new betrothed seemed to her, arrogant, and the girl prayed to Freya that she could somehow learn to love her future husband. Without removing this article of promise, Runa removed the elaborately woven band which circled her red hair and marked her as a virgin of high rank, a Jarl’s daughter. She had been raised to think highly of her status in life, but at this moment the girl wondered if wearing the golden bridal crown would suit her as much as this woven band.

Runa began to undress, her chamber lit only by a glowing fireplace which cast writhing shadows upon the plastered walls. She removed the layers of fine rose-colored cloth from her body, until at last she remained only in a thin linen shift and a silk undergarment. Sitting before her mirror, a rare luxury in the Northern Lands, Runa began to untwine her two long braids, gazing at her reflection as she remained deep in thought. If her father’s fortune were not enough to tempt a suitor, Runa’s beauty certainly was. Her skin was creamy and pale, creating a smooth canvas against which the rich color of her blue eyes and red hair seemed all the more vivid. Her face was lovely and betrayed her every emotion, her rosy lips, frequent blushes, and expressive eyes as easily read as an open book. Her body could have been described as the Northern-Lander’s ideal: delicate, yet with the full breasts, slender waist, and curving hips that the men of that land so appreciated in the fair sex. Not an inch of her was coarse or masculine, and as Runa sat, combing her long red tresses which glowed in the warm firelight, it seemed as if Freya herself had been reincarnated.

Red hair was rare in the Northern Lands, where blond fairness or brown darkness usually prevailed. A person with red hair was often said to have been “touched by Thor” and have a fiery temper, but with Runa that could not have been further from the truth. Shy, quiet, gentle hearted, and loyal, she was unique among the ladies of the nobility for her kind and gracious nature, traits which she had inherited from her equally lovely mother. Runa had lost her mother when she was very young, and it was the love and loyalty she felt for her father that had made her yield to his wishes to break off her first engagement in favor of one more acceptable to him. She did not like it. It seemed dishonorable to break off a promise of marriage, not for any crime on her betrothed’s part, but because a neighboring Jarl had offered a higher bride price. She did not know her new betrothed at all well, and her father further wished her to break with tradition and marry within a few weeks, forgoing the customary year-long courtship.

Runa would never have admitted it, but her father, Ivar Svensson, was an inherently greedy and selfish man, and had chosen her suitors not for his daughter’s happiness, but for his own profit. On her nineteenth birthday, she learned that her father had promised her to Jarl Gunnar Larsen, who was willing to meet Ivar’s price. Runa remembered how nervous she had been during the day of their formal betrothal, when she had first met the tall, dark stranger that was to be her husband. She had admired his strongly-built form and handsome features, as well as the confident yet unarrogant way in which he carried himself. His voice was hearty, as was his laugh, but he seemed to soften both when addressing her. She remembered how deeply she had blushed when she noticed an approving sparkle in his dark eyes, and how her rosy cheeks seemed to please him still further. Gunnar had placed the betrothal ring upon Runa’s finger, and it had been agreed that they remain in courtship for one year before they married. Whenever his lands could spare him, the engaged couple would spend time together under the watchful eye of the girl’s elderly nursemaid, who was not above scolding them for some imagined impropriety.

Runa learned much about Gunnar and his lands during these visits. His land was still very wild, and he and his men were frequently called upon to slay the fearsome beasts who threatened the peasants and livestock. His tales of near-death both frightened and fascinated the girl, and she learned from others that he was just as formidable upon the battlefield. He was skilled in the use of axe, spear, and magic, and there were stories of him cleaving Southern Barbarians in half with one blow, and causing men to burst into flame with a single word. But he was not an utter brute. His clothes were always fine and tasteful, he could hold a conversation with the most refined of men or women, and he had an ear for music, often asking Runa to sing for him despite her bashful protestations. He was a natural man, neither foppish nor brutish, and Runa could not help but admire her betrothed. She grew to like him, and believed that he was fond of her as well. She could not say that she loved him, but she had faith that Freya would bless their marriage. Runa became more used to the idea of being Gunnar’s wife with each visit, delighting in the small magic charms he would perform for her, such as changing the color of her nursemaid’s dress, or producing a flower out of midair. For four months they courted in this way, until her father suddenly changed everything.

Ivar had received an offer from a neighboring Jarl whose wife had recently died. This Jarl was willing to pay a bride price three times as great as Gunnar’s offer, and Ivar had jumped at the opportunity to make a greater profit. Abruptly, he told Runa that she was no longer betrothed to Gunnar Larsen. Instead, she would be betrothed to Brynjar Thorsen, a match that he was sure would make her much happier. The girl had been stunned and asked why this sudden change had come about, but her father had given her no explanation, instead ordering her to give him her betrothal ring and to think no more about Gunnar. Runa had reluctantly parted with the ring, but she could not so easily stop thinking about the man she had expected to be her husband. What had happened? Had he done something disgraceful, something criminal? Her nursemaid had told her that Gunnar was known for having a frightful temper when crossed, and Runa wondered if this temper had caused him to commit an action of which her father disapproved. She eventually learned of the higher bride price, and though her father's motives grieved her, she did not fight his wishes. Ivar lost no time in informing Gunnar of his decision, sending him a curt message and returning the ring and bride price he had paid. He also wrote in no uncertain terms that Gunnar was never to visit his daughter again for any reason.

The rest of it seemed like a blur. Runa found herself suddenly betrothed to an arrogant, tasteless man who could spend hours talking about how wonderful he was, and how lucky she was to have him. After being so used to interesting conversations with Gunnar, the girl found it hard to pay attention to her new betrothed’s idle words. In almost every way Brynjar Thorsen seemed gaudy and artificial, and Runa began to doubt that she could ever love him. But she was duty bound to obey her father’s wishes, and so when it was announced that their wedding would take place in a few weeks, Runa had submitted, praying to the gods that they would bless her marriage. The whole castle was now in a hurry to prepare for the great ceremony and bridal feast, and her nurse had flustered her by subtly hinting at what she should expect on her wedding night. More and more Runa was measured, consulted, and congratulated, until at last she would escape to her chambers and see no one.

When she had finished combing every shining red strand, Runa stood and stepped across to the large window looking out over the unspoiled autumn landscape, the night sky all aglow with the beautiful northern lights. The girl had always loved to watch the ribbons of color melt across the sky, and she could feel herself relaxing after the demands of the day. Again she thought about her future, remembering that the northern lights were said to either bring good fortune or bad. What would her fortune be? With her eyes captivated by the phenomena above, Runa could not see the answer drawing silently closer.

 

[a_libertine]

Gunnar had the castle and town of Scarlet Monte in sight, the current war nearly done. Once Scarlet Monte capitulated, it would be over. Three long years of conquest securing his southern border were now coming to headway. The Kingdom of the Sun was no more in many ways, and before the week concluded, it would cease to exist as a political entity. His army had encircled it days ago, and was slowly squeezing the life from the city. The river had been dammed over, the gates constantly under attack, his fellow wizards firing fiery balls of death through the night. He could feel the low morale of the city even from here.

For a brief moment, he thought of the flamed haired beauty waiting his triumphant return to the Azure Shard. Azure Shard was his small little slice of the world that he had steadily carved larger and larger chunks of southern lands adding them to his own. With the larger areas of land, and the warmer climates, came more people. More people in turn led to more trade, more trade to more taxes, more taxes to more war, and more war to more land.

The absurdity of the conquest cycle appealed to him. The better you are the more you want.

That want tapered of late. Runa filled his mind as much as war did lately. The touch of her hand in his, the smell of her hair, her monthly letters, his monthly visit to her; all played coy little tricks on him. A small secretive smile seemed to have settled permanently on his face.

It was at that moment that Harald walked up, “My lord?”

Gunnar’s dark brown eyes, almost the color of obsidian turned to his Aide-de-Camp. “Yes?”

“I have a letter that was forwarded down to you from the castle.” Harald said uncertainly.

Harald’s tone caught Gunnar’s attention. Facing him fully, Gunnar held his hand out. Harald placed a small scroll in Gunnar’s hand. The scroll bound by Runa’s ring. Taking the ring and placing it in his pocket, Gunnar read the letter carefully. It was not a tough read, but one that Gunnar found incredulous.

Jarl Larsen,

I am breaking the nearly yearlong engagement you have had with Runa at her request. Your bride price has been returned, your ring has been returned. You are to leave her alone from this day forward.
​

Jarl Svensson
​

A quiet uneasy rage filled Gunnar. A rage that came off him in waves of hatred; a hatred directed at Jarl Svensson. Harald, shifting from foot to foot, asked, “What are you orders?”

Death never looked so brilliant as it did at that moment. A low ominous sound, “Tell Scarlet Monte, they have until sundown today to surrender, else they die: man, woman and child.”

Bowing, Harald murmured, “Of course,” and backed his way out from Gunnar.

For the rest of the afternoon Gunnar plotted war against the one group he had hoped to avoid, Star Volcano and Jarl Svensson. A slight like this could not be forgiven, regardless of feelings. Their neutral stance toward one another allowed him the years needed to conquer the lands south of the Northern Lands, collectively known as the Path of the Sky.

Now Svensson was forcing his hand. Gunnar wasn’t sure what happened, or why, but guessed someone had caught a glimpse of Runa, and offered more money. The idiot Svensson didn’t have the presence or good grace to let Gunnar know of the higher offer.

Fuck, he would have handed Svensson the Kingdom of the Sun as a bride price.

As it was, the price was going to be blood.

Half an hour before sundown, Gunnar walked to the front line of his troops. Morale was high, the blood of the defeated was in the air, his troops ready to savor the taste. Listening to the ribald humor of his men, Gunnar waited until the sun touched the horizon. Raising his hands, Gunnar brought the arcane rite to mind, preparing himself to cast it when he saw the city gates fly open.

Peace then, he thought with some relief.

Hours later, Gunnar called a command meeting in the Palace of Secrets. Harald and the other generals were there. “Harald, you are now regent over the Kingdom of the Sun. You are to assimilate them into our culture, way of thinking. Stimulate trade where ever there may be partners to trade with.”

Pointing at three of his five generals, “You three, start marching your divisions north tomorrow morning.” The three looked at Gunnar then each other in shock before looking back to him. To the remaining two generals, “You two stay here. Be the steel fist.”

Harald knowing the question the generals’ had, asked, “Sire, why north?”

Gunnar looked at him then the other five, “We march on Star Volcano. Unless Jarl Svensson has a great reason to break our contract, then I will forcibly take from him what is mine.”

Gunnar had gone ahead of his army. Pushing the horses until the collapsed beneath him, grabbing another horse and repeating the cycle. Time was limited.

The bastards had accurately predicted how fast Gunnar’s armies could return from the Kingdom of the Sun. The wedding was scheduled for a week prior to that. Gunnar though was more than happy to travel alone ahead of his army. He knew they were coming, he knew that the troops in Azure Shard were already mobilizing to cut off trade and water to Star Volcano.

Arriving at the far side of the volcano from Jarl Svensson’s castle, Gunnar began the long arduous trek up and over the volcano. For a night and day, he climbed then lowered himself until he stood on the balcony that led to Runa’s chambers. Standing in the shadows he waited. Her room eventually lit, and long minutes later, Runa came onto the balcony.

She was so close her softness could almost be felt already. Her natural desire to please those around her, her need for acceptance and guidance pulsed like a magic gone wild. Her eyes were on the Northern Lights, the gossamer threads dancing in the heavens. Her face eased into a childlike pleasure, the concerns of the day slowly evaporating.

Silently Gunnar stepped forward, wrapping his hand around her mouth, “Shhh, beloved.”

Her surprise melted away to happiness as she turned to him. Placing a hand on each of her hips, Gunnar whispered, “Come, let’s steal away together.”

 

[naughtycammy]

Runa gasped and let out a muffled scream, struggling against the unknown being who held her until she heard the voice of Gunnar Larsen whisper in her ear. Jarl Larsen! The girl's terror melted away into happiness, and it was not until she turned and looked into his eyes that she realized how much she had missed him. Her lovely face flushed as Gunnar held her hips is his strong grip, unused to being so intimately touched, even by her former betrothed.

It was his next offer that truly shocked her. Runa's first reaction was one of joy, her happiness sparkling within her eyes and shining upon her lips. Gunnar was the only man she could think of as her husband, and with him she could escape her horrid new betrothed and have a real chance of marital happiness. But her joy was short lived. In a flash Runa remembered her father, how he wished and expected her to marry Brynjar Thorsen. She remembered all the preparations that were almost complete: her gown, the feast, the gifts, the trousseau. She even remembered all of the guests that had been invited. But most of all, Runa thought of the duty and obedience she owed to her father, and her heart sank under the weight of what he expected from her.

The girl's face clearly expressed her sorrow and despair, her blue eyes unable to meet Gunnar's, her right hand unconsciously trying to hide the gaudy ring upon her left. Looking away from him, her cheeks burning with a multitude of emotions, Runa finally spoke, her voice even sweeter when softened into a whisper. "Jarl Larsen... I... I cannot. My father... I have promised myself to another. The preparations are almost complete. I... I cannot betray the faith my father has in me, nor the duty I owe him. So many obligations... Please my Jarl... if you can forgive me..."

The girl's voice drifted away into silence, and she tried to turn away to hide the sorrow on her face.

 

[a_libertine]

Gunnar nodded, it was the answer he expected, right down to the facial expressions. His hands rested on her hips still holding her firmly, yet gently, in place. She would not be allowed to hide from him.

Gunnar's voice was low and firm, the tone one used when the conclusions were obvious enough that it needed to be pointed out. "You have not asked for release from me, nor have I given it. Your promise to me stands and holds greater merit."

He knew there was not enough time to argue the point with her. To make her see reason, so plan B it was.

Flicking his wrist outward a spear appeared in his hand. The spear shimmered and glowed like it was alive. Stepping to the balcony edge, Gunnar hurled the spear downward to the cobblestoned courtyard below. A moment later, lightening arced from the spear heaving the courtyard upward, hurtling cobblestones hither and yon.

Runa's scream was perfect. A smile crossed his face as he caressed her cheek gently. Then flicking his wrist one more time another spear appeared in his hand. This spear he threw into the frame of the door that connected her chambers with the balcony.

Grabbing Runa's arm, Gunnar uttered a powerful incantation. At the conclusion of the spell he and she both disappeared from the balcony, just as the spear's lightning exploded, sheering the balcony from the castle, devastating her chambers.

A moment later, they stood in his throne room. The azure crystal ceiling now showing the night time sky.

Letting loose of Runa's arm, he stepped to the dais that held the throne of the sun on it.

"You are mine Runa," he whispered.

 

[naughtycammy]

Runa was surprised when Gunnar did not allow her to turn from him, her blue eyes rising to look into the dark pools of his. He did not look angry, nor particularly upset. Instead, she saw a determination in his face which caused her heart to tremble with uneasiness. His words, spoken in his low, unwavering voice caused her blue eyes to widen, but before she could attempt to persuade him, Gunnar's famed magical prowess came into play.

Runa gasped with fear as a spear suddenly appeared in his hand, half convinced that he was about to run her through before he hurled it down to the courtyard below. The girl did not understand his actions, but had no time to ask for an explanation before a bolt of lightning seemed to burst from below with a great thunderous boom and a blinding flash. Runa screamed as cobblestones flew in all directions, the force of the explosion causing her red hair to fly out behind her like wings. She thought she felt Gunnar's fingers brush her cheek, but before she could collect herself enough to flee, another spear had appeared within her former betrothed's hand. He hurled and embedded the spear into the frame of the door, the only means of escape from Runa's balcony besides leaping from its edge. The girl truly thought her life was at an end, but at that moment she felt Gunnar grasp her arm, and for a few moments she saw the world spin round and dissolve into darkness.

Runa had only momentarily lost consciousness, and when she regained her senses she found herself not upon her balcony, but standing upon the polished floor of a great throne room. Her frightened blue eyes wandered around the room in a daze, until at last they came to rest upon Gunnar Larsen. He looked magnificent, like the Jarl and warrior he was as he stood before his throne, and Runa knew that they were no longer in Star Volcano, but in the Azure Shard, his land.

Gunnar's words finally awoke the girl from her shock, the fear still evident in her face as her legs gave out beneath her. She fell to her knees, her breasts heaving beneath her shift as she gasped for breath, trying desperately to still her pounding heart, her left hand upon her chest. When she was at last able to speak, Runa looked looked up into Gunnar's face, her own clearly displaying the fear and despair within her. "My Jarl... what have you done? This cannot be. You must bring me back! My father... Jarl Thorsen... I must return before they know I am gone. Please my Jarl, you must release your claim on me for all our sakes!"

 

[a_libertine]

Runa collapsed onto her knees. Gunnar for a moment considered it the perfect position for her, deciding he would have to teach how to kneel for him. After she learned why she should.

Tears streaked down her lovely face as she cried out, trying to convince him to return her home.

Runa, he said patiently, "They already know you are gone. Or will in less than another minute."

Sitting on the top stair of the Dais of Frost, Gunnar said, "Your father chose war when he sent the letter to me; he knows that I would not be able to allow him to break his word with me."

Softening his tone, "I tell you what, if you can convince me you love the peacock Jarl Thorsen, I shall send you home. If you can not, then you will stay here, which is where your eyes told me a minute ago you want to be."

 

[naughtycammy]

Runa trembled as she knelt before her former betrothed, trying yet failing to hold back the tears that sparkled in her eyes and trickled down her cheeks. Gunnar's voice was patient, yet decided as he spoke to her, and though she did not want to admit it, he was right. Her father had wronged him by breaking their betrothal, and in the Northern Lands broken promises easily led to bloodshed. Runa's head lowered, the fiery locks of her hair slipping over her shoulders.

Gunnar's softened tone caused her to look up into his eyes, and once again her emotions were easily read upon her lovely face. The very thought of Jarl Thorsen repulsed her, and though she tried her hardest to hide it, her dislike for him was more than evident. She blushed deeply when Gunnar reminded her of how happy she had initially been at the thought of eloping with him, biting her bottom lip and turning her eyes away from the man the had always imagined as her husband.

Unable to look into his eyes, which seemed to read her every thought, Runa replied after a long silence, her voice almost a whisper. "I... I cannot say that I love Jarl Thorsen... I do not know him at all well... But... but my nurse has told me that love often develops after marriage. And... and there is more to consider than love. It was wrong to break our vow of betrothal. I know my father and I have wronged you. But my father had reasons... I am sure they were sound... to wish me to marry Jarl Thorsen. I am his daughter, and I owe my life to him. I could not disobey."

Runa could feel her resistance weakening, though she tried desperately to hide her emotions. "When my father and Jarl Thorsen discover I have gone, they will surely know that you are the cause. It will mean war, and you and your men are already so bound by conflict. Another war can only do you harm. I... I do not think my hand is worth the bloodshed..."

 

[a_libertine]

Gunnar looked at Runa, his mellow voice rolling across the throne room, "Runa, there will be war, I daresay that can not be avoided. The question is whether you wish to be happy with me, or miserable for your life elsewhere."

Gunnar walked over, cupping Runa's face tilted her head back. He noticed the nearly perfect elevation match between her mouth and his cock. The thought of taking her here in his throne room quickened his heart.

The doors at the far end of the chamber burst open as a dozen guards came barreling into the chamber. When the realized who was there, they halted and saluted. "My lord? How long have you been back, why weren't we notified?"

Gunnar looked at the speaker, all the softness of his voice disappeared as he said, "Resume your duties, send Yahya in, I have duties for him to attend."

"After that prepare the guard, we are at war with Jarl's Thorssen and Svensson. Reinforcements are a month away."

Gunnar's hand dropped down into Runa's hair, caressing her head soothingly. The softness that he held in reserve for her returned as he said, "Shhh, it will be all right Runa."

 

[naughtycammy]

Runa could not answer Gunnar's question. She did not dare look into his eyes, but it was clear by her tortured expression that she was trying desperately to choose between her own happiness and her father's. She knew in her heart that Gunnar was her rightful husband, and that Jarl Thorsen could never make her happy. Runa could feel herself about to betray her father, and she wept silently as Gunnar's strong hands gently cupped her face and tilted it up so she was forced to look into his eyes. His dark eyes were hypnotizing, full of so much that her innocent mind could not yet understand. What was he thinking of?

Runa jumped and turned as the door suddenly burst open, for a moment believing that her father had already come to claim her. The many armed guards frightened her and the girl clung to one of Gunnar's legs, and even after it was clear that the men were his she blushed deeply to be seen by so many in such a state of undress. She remained silent as they spoke, but could not repress a sob as Gunnar informed his men that they were going to war against Jarl Svensson, another tear trickling down her smooth cheek.

Gunnar's words and touch soothed her as he ran his fingers through her hair, knowing how much he had wanted to touch the silky red strands during their courtship. Resting her head against his hip, Runa attempted to dry her tears and submit to fate, whispering "I pray you are right, my Jarl... My hope rests in you..."

 

[a_libertine]

Her voice was weak and frightened, but the words, "My hope rests in you..." sounded like all creation was behind them. Her arms wrapped around his leg, head pressed against his hip, the small shivers of fear and sorrow that rattled through her body all transfered to him.

It was beyond his control at the moment. Gunnar's cock stood strong and proud causing his robe to tent out below his belt. For all the power he wielded, for all the skill of arms he possessed, Gunnar had never felt so substantial as he did at that very moment.

His hand played idly in her hair a moment as Runa's tears slowly abated. Entering from a door behind the throne, Yahya entered the throne room, "Welcome home my lord. Welcome to the Azure Shard, Runa Svensson. We are pleased you have come." His bow was deep and respectful.

A warm smile crossed Gunnar's face as the old seneschal came forward. His back not as straight as a spear any longer, Yahya, had seen more sunrises than anyone Gunnar knew. He was full of wisdom and compassion for those around them.

"Runa, please go with Yahya, he will take you to your room. They are near mine and he will show you where mine are as well. One thing you need to know, if a door is locked, there is a reason, do not try to force it open."

Turning back to the seneschal, "Make sure to summon the widows and daughters old enough to attend her."

Yahya bowed, saying, "Why of course, my lord. They are ready and will come when commanded. I would expect the closest to start arriving tomorrow night."

Stepping closer, he bowed again, "Lady Runa, if you will accompany me, I shall take you to your suite."

 

[naughtycammy]

Runa could feel her self-control slowly return to her, Gunnar's warmth and his gentle caresses giving her the strength to dry her eyes and steady her nerves. She was as yet unaware of his intense arousal, and was innocent enough to believe that his heightened breathing was caused by emotion and the knowledge of what lay ahead. Only when she heard a door opening behind them and she looked up did Runa notice the large bulge beneath Gunnar's tunic, her blue eyes going wide and her cheeks flushing as she realized what it must be. She never knew that she could inspire such feelings within a man, and though she timidly rose to her feet to meet the elderly man who greeted her, the image of that large bulge remained burned into her mind.

Yahya struck Runa as being very kind, his eyes full of the wisdom he had gathered over his long life. Though dressed only in her shift, the lady within her caused her to curtsy gracefully as he bowed, to show that she was grateful for his recognition of her. Her eyes looked to Gunnar with a slightly nervous expression as he asked her to go with the old gentleman, as if afraid to leave his protective presence. But Gunnar seemed to trust Yahya deeply, so at last Runa yielded to his wishes. She nodded and lowered her eyes respectfully, her lovely face flushing as she once again caught sight of his hidden desire. His warning about the locked doors puzzled her, but she obediently followed Yahya, turning once or twice to look back at the Jarl of the Azure Shard, her blue eyes full of shy tenderness.

Runa smiled softly at the old man's kindness toward her, replying as she followed him down the halls which were so new to her. "I thank you for your kindness toward me, Sir Yahya. I hope that I may someday repay such kindness."

 

[a_libertine]

Gunnar watched as his bride to be left the throne room with Yahya. She would be a good complement to him, Gunnar knew. She was soft and caring, yielding against his mage-steel like hardness.

Gunnar knew that he was a conquering king, not a ruling king. He needed those around him to temper that which made him so very able to bring populations to their knees in fear.

Between Yahya and Runa, he hoped they could help him make that fear turn to worship and adoration in time.

Before he could worry about that full time, he had two more peoples to bring to their knees.

Marching from the throne room Gunnar began barking orders, readying the castle for a siege, if the two Jarl's had enough sense and balls to attack quickly. Part of Gunnar counted on Jarl Svensson dragging his feet on attacking, the expense of which would be felt through all levels of his peoples.

Daring to hope, Gunnar strode purposefully into the war room of his castle. In the middle of the room sat a three meter by three meter table of obsidian. Leaning over the table he breathed life into it, bringing up a topographical map of Jarl Svensson's land.

 

[naughtycammy]

Gunnar was right in his assumptions about Jarls Svensson and Thorsen. By now it was known that Runa was missing and her chambers were destroyed, and it did not take long for the word to spread that Jarl Larsen had taken her. Sadly, Ivar Svensson seemed more concerned about the damage to his castle than his daughter's plight, until remembering that there would be no bride price without the bride herself. The guard was called and told to hold themselves in readiness for a seige, but Svensson was reluctant to go to war before other methods were attempted. His greed and miserly nature made it painful for him to spend money on food, weapons, wages, and horses for his troops, so while he reinforced the borders on his land, he did not yet make the full preparations needed to go to war.

Jarl Thorsen was in a similar position, but for different reasons. He was furious that Gunnar had stolen his bride to be, and was determined to slake his anger and humiliation in Jarl Larsen's blood. But though his emotions were more admirable than Svensson's, Brynjar Thorsen was in essence a peacock, willing to do anything to satisfy his own vanity, but utterly inept when it came to warfare. In his rage he gave conflicting orders to his men, creating chaos until at last handing the opperation over to his General, who was able to organize everything needed to march toward the Azure Shard. But Thorsen was a coward, and decided to first attempt negotiation by offering to pay a ransom for the return of the fair Runa. Jarl Svensson agreed to this plan, relieved that he would not need to pay any of the ransom himself.

*****

Runa followed behind the kindy seneschal as he led her through the well-lit halls of Gunnar's palace, her blue eyes looking at each passing door with curiousity, wondering what could be found behind them and if they were locked. At last Yahya stopped before a large, rose-colored door, smiling at the girl in his kind, grandfatherly way as he announced "This will be your Ladyship's chamber, if your Ladyship finds them acceptable." Opening the door, he bowed and gently ushered Runa inside.

Runa gasped softly as she looked around the room, amazed that such a place was intended for her. More spacious and luxurious than her quarters in Star Volcano, the room was decorated in a soft, feminine style, light colors such as cream, rose, gold, and pale blue being its primary hues. The wooden furnishings such as the chairs, tables, doors, chests, and the large bedstead were exquisitely crafted and carved, decorated with images of flowers and sweet-voiced songbirds. The bedding was soft and plush, made from the finest cloth produced in the Kingdom of the Sun. The curtains which surrounded the bed, intended to give the sleeper privacy as well as warmth, were of the same fabric, but its subtle patterns were accented with gold thread which shimmered in the warm glowing fire and lamplight. She did not open the large chests which she assumed were meant to hold clothes, afraid to seem overly eager before her guide's mild, understanding eyes. But Runa could not help but step over to the dressing table, her heart fluttering within her chest as she saw a hand mirror inscribed with her name. Could it be that Gunnar had designed this room with her in mind?

Daring to open one of the carved wooden coffers, Runa gasped, her hand covering her rosy lips as she beheld the most beautiful necklace she had ever seen. It was delicately crafted, as if by inhuman hands, of gold and tears of amber. It reminded her at once of Brisingamen, the famed amber and gold necklace owned by Freya, goddess of love, beauty, and desire, and the girl wondered for a moment if that was the craftsman's intent. Blushing deeply at her presumption, Runa closed the lid and turned to another corner of the room, where she found a harp, an instrument she loved to play, sheets of music, and a few bound volumes of poetry. The girl blushed as she recognized one of them, a warm flush spreading over her as she remembered Gunnar reading from it during their courtship. She loved the sound of his voice, remembering how she had become so absorbed with his reading that she had nearly pricked herself badly while embroidering.

Yahya smiled kindly as he watched the young woman admire and explore her new chambers, quietly asking "Is this room to your liking, my Ladyship?" Runa blushed deeply, realizing that she had almost forgotten that the old seneschal was there. She nodded and smiled shyly, replying "Oh yes, Sir Yahya. I like it very much..." Yahya smiled approvingly. "His Lordship will be pleased. I apologize for there being no ladies to attend to you at present. Tomorrow that should be remedied." The girl nodded, feeling a little embarrassed that so much was being done for her comfort. Pointing to the door upon the back wall, Runa asked "May I ask where this door leads?" Her guide nodded. "That door leads to your Ladyship's bathing room." The girl smiled and thanked him, happy to have her own bath. She next pointed to a larger, heavily carved door upon the right wall. "And this door?" Yahya smiled kindly, yet with a tiny sparkle in his eye as he answered "To my Lordship's chamber."

Runa was surprised, her face flushing deeply as she realized Gunnar's room was connected to hers. That meant that they could steal away to each other's chambers whenever they chose. Yahya smiled with compassion, his tone soothing as he replied "There is nothing to fear, my Lady. It is good a natural for husband and wife to be so near. Come, I will show you his Lordship's quarters." The seneschal opened the connecting door, and Runa, lovely in her shyness, entered Jarl Larsen's chambers.

 

[a_libertine]

Yahya opened the door to his master's disused suite. The spartan furnishings noticeable to any that stepped in the room. The absolute exquisite quality equally noticeable.

Along each wall the four feet closest to the twelve foot ceiling were shelves and pigeonholes. Books and scrolls filled each square inch of the shelving. The wood itself was Sorrow-wood, which was wood germinated by the tears of angels, according to legend. It contained a golden hue through the grain giving it a strength and density no other wood in the world could match. The scrolls themselves were mundane and magical both, arranged in an order that only Gunnar understood.

A six foot wide desk sat along the right hand wall, an enormous and elaborate series of pigeon holes in a hutch atop of it. The desk was made from Deathhickory. Black hickory trees that grew in cemeteries, it carried an unearthly glow at night, that allowed whoever was sitting at the desk to read and study without the need of a torch or candle.

The rest of the wall, some 24 feet was filled in with shelves that held assorted trinkets both mundane and magical.

The far right wall held tapestries and paintings. Two statues stood in equal distances along the wall. One statue was of a male, the other female. The tapestries were of historical scenes and godly deeds. The paintings of various landscapes.

The far wall, the one opposite Runa and Yahya, held an enormous bed. The bed was made of dragon wood. Delicate posts reaching up at each corner of the bed. The posts carved in the shape of arms, topped with open hands. The bed itself covered with a soft blue duvet. On each side of the bed doors stood, one to the master bath, the other locked.

On the left wall stood chests and armoires, filled with clothes, boots, and sundries necessary for a well dressed Jarl.

The floor was marble, covered by the hide of a white dragon that had been killed a few years earlier by Gunnar in conjunction with another Jarl; each receiving half of the carcass, and half of its considerable hoard.

"These of course, my lady are our master's rooms. I am sure you will spend many hours in here with the Jarl."

 

[naughtycammy]

Runa's blue eyes roamed about her Jarl's room with wonder, taken aback by its difference from her own. While her chamber was light, soft, and feminine, Gunnar's was dark, hard, and masculine. The girl was amazed by the rare woods from which the furnishings were made, as well as by the vast collection of scrolls and books arranged upon the high shelves. Runa could feel her admiration for her husband-to-be grow as she saw the physical evidence of his vast knowledge, observing with awe a few works written in Ancient Runic, the oldest form of their present language.

Everything in Gunnar's chambers was of the finest quality, and the girl marveled at the beauty of the paintings, figural tapestries, and statues. Even his bed was beautiful, but the knowledge of what could happen between them within its blue bedding brought a sweet rosy glow to her cheeks. To distract herself from such thoughts, Runa turned her attention to the white hide rug which covered the marble floor. It took her a moment to recognize what creature it had come from, but when she realized that it was in fact the hide of a white dragon, the girl found herself even more impressed with Gunnar's hunting prowess.

"These of course, my lady are our master's rooms. I am sure you will spend many hours in here with the Jarl."

Yahya's words revived the flush of color in Runa's cheeks, a quiver of either fear or excitement running down her spine at the thought of being alone with Gunnar in his quarters. The wise man's words made her more fully realize her position. Until they could marry, until her father and Jarl Thorsen capitulated, Runa was in fact Gunnar's prisoner of war. He was her Master, and she was entirely at his mercy. What would he ask of her? What would he expect of her?

Her cheeks still burning, Runa turned and nodded to the seneschal, unconciously removing the gaudy betrothal ring Jarl Thorsen had given her, holding it as she replied "Yes... I am sure you are right, Sir Yahya. I will try to be obedient to my Jarl's wishes." Lifting her eyes to those of Yahya, the girl timidly asked "Would it be acceptable for me to dress and rest, Sir Yahya? This day has been full of changes for me." The desire to please awoke within her blue eyes, and Runa quickly added "Unless there is something Jarl Larsen wishes me to see or do first..."

 

[a_libertine]

"Would it be acceptable for me to dress and rest, Sir Yahya? This day has been full of changes for me. Unless there is something Jarl Larsen wishes me to see or do first..."

Yahya smiled companionably to Runa then bowed, "Of course my lady, I am sure that you are quite frazzled and tired."

He turned and led her back toward her chambers, "If madame would like, I can go wake a maid to come assist you tonight in preparing for bed."

~*~*~*~*~

Gunnar eyes studied the map, finding the weaknesses in the defenses in Jarl Svensson's lands. He figured that the lay of the land would change in the upcoming week as the two Jarls made preparations for war.

Late into the night he worked, sending messengers to the commanders leading armies back. His directions explicit, the timing had to be nearly exact to work; or it would if he were attacking warlords instead of a banker and a fop.

 

[naughtycammy]

Runa smiled, glad that the wise Yahya understood how she felt. By this time in Star Volcano she would have been fast asleep, and her weariness, combined with the many shocks, joys, and sorrows of that day, had begun to catch up with her. She thanked the old seneschal as he led her back to her own chamber, shaking her head with a sweet smile when he asked if she required a maid that night. "No thank you, Sir Yahya. I will not require a maid tonight. Perhaps tomorrow, but I do not wish to inconvenience anyone for my own comfort." Runa had grown to like Yahya very much during their time together, understanding why Gunnar put so much trust in him. Curtsying deeply with respect, Runa again thanked him, and it was only when the seneschal had begun to leave that she remembered the ring she held.

"Oh! Please stay a moment, Sir Yahya." She held out the gaudy ring, so like its giver, to the older gentleman, explaining "This... this is the betrothal ring that was given to me by Jarl Thorsen. I cannot wear it, for I was not free to accept it. I wish to honor my contract of betrothal with Jarl Larsen, and if I am given the choice, I will accept his ring alone. Please, take this and bring it to your Master. Tell him to do with it as he chooses. I know he will judge rightly."

Yahya accepted the ring, and again was about to depart, when Runa called him back again, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment as she added "Oh! And tell my Jarl..." Her cheeks flushed deeper, her eyes looking shyly to the marble floor. "... that I wish him a good night." Thanking him for his patience, the girl at last allowed the smiling seneschal to leave, sighing as she felt her exhaustion weigh upon her. So much could change in so little time.

Now that she was alone, Runa opened one of the large chests which she assumed would hold clothes, hoping to find something more comfortable to sleep in. She did not explore the chest and armoir as thoroughly as she would had she been rested, but she did find a nightgown that she could not resist wearing. It was of the finest white silk, soft and sensuous to the touch, in the style of a chemise with full sleeves and hem which fell to her feet. Runa thought it was beautiful, setting it upon the bed as she removed her shift.

Pulling the linen garment off and over her head, the girl caught sight of her body in the mirror of her dressing table, her lovely face flushing as she saw so much of her own soft, feminine flesh. Her fiery hair seemed to caress her ivory skin, the rosy nipples of her full, young breasts licked at by the flickering shadows cast by the fire. The shadows caressed her slender waist and flat belly, but could not gain access to her virgin treasure, which was hidden by her linen undergarment. Though it made her nervous to be fully unclothed in an unfamiliar room, something compelled Runa to remove this as well, and soon her untouched femininity was revealed to herself in the mirror, crowned with the red patch that marked her as a woman. Blushing more deeply than ever, the girl pulled the silk nightgown over her head, suprised to discover that it was much more transparent than she had expected. But the silk was delicious, caressing her smooth skin like nothing else she had ever worn, and Runa decided that it was perfect to sleep in.

Slipping between the heavenly, soft sheets of her bed, the flame-haired beauty quickly fell into a deep sleep, her dreams soft and pleasant after the trials of the day.

*~*~*~*~*

Jarl Thorsen's messenger had been sent, though it would likely be some time before he arrived at the Azure Shard. He carried a simple message, explaining that Jarls Thorsen and Svensson realized that Gunnar had captured Runa, and that all hostilities would be held back if he returned her unharmed. If this stratagy failed, there was a second letter, offering twice of Gunnar's bride price for Runa's safe return. Jarl Svensson believed the second was sure to be accepted, as he could not imagine a man who did not care for money.

 

[a_libertine]

Yahya came into the war room after Runa retired for the night. Gunnar looked at the old seneschal, "Well?"

Bowing Yahya said, "She is ever bit as demure as you suspected, my lord. I believe you chose wisely in her as your bride."

Gunnar's face darkened slightly, "That's it?"

"She is of course, scared master. She has been kidnapped by a man that she may not yet love, but admires and trusts. She is out of element, but will adjust to the role that you want of her, once you decide what that is." The older man looked down a moment then finished, "She will give herself you completely when you ask her for it."

Nodding, Gunnar asked, "Her rooms are adequate?"

"More than she expected, master." the old man replied.

"Anything else?"

"She seemed quite anxious to be rid of the ring that Jarl Thorsen gave her." The old seneschal handed the ring to Gunnar, "She wishes that I relay her confidence that you will do the right thing with the ring."

Gunnar rolled the ring in his hand looking at it, "Nice bauble. Give the peacock credit, he knows how to put on a flashy show."

The older man chuckled, "I am sure my lord has showered his intended mate with gifts of greater worth and impact."

"I have?"

"Of course my lord, I have little doubt that Lady Runa will quickly find the 'Tears of Freya."

Gunnar looked up sharply at the old seneschal, "You put that in her room?"

"Of course, master. It is not like you will ever wear the necklace or permit another woman to wear it. So why not her?"

"It's magical properties for one." Gunnar replied shortly.

"If my lord never activates the powers in the necklace then they shall remain dormant. Besides most of the properties are protective in nature."

Gunnar sighed, "True I suppose, but it is an ancient magic. Older than you or I, or both combined."

"Perhaps not combined master." Yahya ribbed.

"What are your plans for her in the morning?"

"In the morning, I will have a maid go assist her in getting ready, draw her a bath and so on. I also plan for you to breakfast with her. The war will wait."

"Yes it will. It will take a week for the two fools to get a messenger here with demands that I give her back to them."

The older man poured them both a goblet of wine, the goblets sparkling like a rainbow. "You of course will rebuff him?"

"Not immediately. I thought to marry Runa while he was here so that he could deliver the happy news for us."

"Thus ensuring war." The old man observed.

"I am not so sure that they will risk it even then." Gunnar replied.

"Oh? Wouldn't that hinder your plans somewhat?"

"Yes, but I am okay with that. Runa would feel responsible for the war if she thought we fought over her." Gunnar looked at the map, his voice soft, "I am fond enough of her, not to have her carry that burden."

"Then what shall you do?" The old man asked.

"The key will be in this ring," Gunnar said while tossing the ring up once. "When it goes back to the two Jarls, I will demand that Svensson abdicate in favor of Runa and I immediately, and if Thorsen has no male heir, he cedes his lands to me. If a male heir is born to him, the child comes here to be my ward."

"Thorsen will never agree, even if Svensson does."

"Agreed," Gunnar said. "Thus the war that they are afraid to bring, I shall, for punitive reasons unrelated to Runa."

"You are becoming a ruthless bastard, my lord."

"That is precisely why I need you and Runa around," Gunnar pointed out.

"Indeed."

"This is the only way to ensure that she is here to stay." Gunnar looked back at the obsidian table between the two of them, sipping from his crystal goblet, "I am rather fond of her."

Yahya's laughter rolled across the room, "I can't wait to see what you will do if you ever fall in love with her."

~*~*~*~*~

In the morning, Gunnar sat at a table set for two. Drinking a cup of coffee he looked as fresh as if he had slept. Seeing Runa enter the solarium, he rose a smile splitting his face, "My dear you look wonderful."

 

[naughtycammy]

Runa indeed looked lovely as entered the sunlit room, her cheeks flushing into a rosy glow as Gunnar greeted her. Rest and a warm bath had done its work, and her creamy skin seemed to glow with good health. She had taken a great liking to her maid, Hildegard, a kind, jolly woman who had fussed over her to no end.

All of the gowns within her armoir were more lovely than she deserved, or so Runa had thought, but at last she had chosen one of pale blue which brought out the color of her eyes and intensified the redness of her hair. Overall it was very modest, with a long skirt, a snug torso, and long close-fitting sleeves which ended in a point upon the back of her hands. But it exposed her white shoulders and neck more than she was accustomed to, and Runa was afraid that Gunnar would not approve. She did not want him to think she was a "bad" woman.

While Hildegard had been combing her fiery locks and arranging them in two long braids, Runa had again opened the coffer which contained the amber and gold necklace. It was too lovely for words, and the girl had been sorely tempted to clasp it around her throat and wear it the entire day. But Runa resisted, not wishing to seem greedy by wearing such a beautiful gift too soon. She wore no jewelry that day, her milky skin serving as its own adornment, beautified by her meek blushes.

Runa curtsied deeply, lowering her eyes as she greeted her husband-to-be. "Good morning, my Jarl. I thank you for your kindness." Rising, she joined him at the table, blushing deeply as he took her hand in his. She wanted to thank him for making her accomodations so much more than she deserved, but she forgot everything she was going to say when she looked into his dark, almost obsidian eyes. Runa thought that Gunnar looked very handsome, especially when he smiled. She almost wanted to melt into that smile. Bashful, yet smiling despite herself, she asked "Did you sleep well my Jarl? You look full of good health this morning."

 

[a_libertine]

Gunnar studied his intended bride as she curtsied deeply for him. He found it an attractive pose for her. The swell of her breasts pushed up daringly against the neckline of the dress. It was by no means the most daring dress in her wardrobe, nor was it the most modest. He would have readily admitted that the dress favored her, it was in his favorite color, blue, though the hue a little paler than his normal choice. He made a mental note to make sure to give a bonus to the dress designer, it was an exceptional dress.

When their eyes met, he saw her lose herself momentarily in his nearly Stygian eyes. His smile reflected in them as she asked, "Did you sleep well my Jarl? You look full of good health this morning."

"I fear I sleep very little any more. I was never one to sleep an entire night, and since I have started conquest, I allow myself little. As you may imagine, there is much to do when waging war and ruling a land."

Holding her chair for her he watched her smooth lines as she sat, then walked around the small circular table and sat. "Yahya tells me the first of your ladies will be arriving in mid morning, more tonight and over the next week or so."

He reached into one of the several pouches he carried, and pulled out the engagement ring he gave her more than a quarter of a year ago. "I trust that you will find the ring I originally gave you adequate for our renewed engagement?"

Slipping the ring on her hand, he leaned back into the chair, as if waiting. "Unless I miss my guess your father is sending an emissary here to demand your return. When he arrives I would like for us to be wed then, so that he may witness it."

 

[naughtycammy]

"I fear I sleep very little any more. I was never one to sleep an entire night, and since I have started conquest, I allow myself little. As you may imagine, there is much to do when waging war and ruling a land."

Runa's blue eyes filled with sympathy and concern, realizing for the first time how much of a toll warfare could take upon a conqueror such as Gunnar. He did not look ill or troubled, but she hoped that soon the day would come when he could allow himself to rest. Runa's cheeks flushed softly as he held her chair for her, thanking him with shyly lowered eyes as she sat, her eyes rising only once Gunnar had regained his seat. She listened with an almost childlike eagerness as he spoke, her eyes reflecting her every emotion.

"Yahya tells me the first of your ladies will be arriving in mid morning, more tonight and over the next week or so."

Runa smiled at this, replying "You and Sir Yahya have been very considerate, my Jarl. I will do my best to make all who come feel welcome." It was true that some female company would greatly add to her ease and enjoyment, yet she hoped that no one would be inconvinienced simply for her own comfort.

Runa gasped softly as Gunnar produced the betrothal ring he had given her so long ago, her eyes shining with delight at the knowledge that it had not been discarded or destroyed.

"I trust that you will find the ring I originally gave you adequate for our renewed engagement?"

The girl happily yielded her hand to him as her betrothed once again placed his ring upon her finger, the deep blue stone upon it sparkling like the night sky. She had been so afraid that her father had never returned it, or that Gunnar had destroyed it in a fit of rage. She had never felt comfortable wearing Jarl Thorsen's ring, but this ring, the ring of her true betrothed, filled her with warmth and contentment. Her blue eyes looked into his own dark pools, her delicate hands resting upon her bosom before returning to her lap. "Oh yes, my Jarl. This is the only ring I could ever wear. I thank Odin that it returned safely to you."

"Unless I miss my guess your father is sending an emissary here to demand your return. When he arrives I would like for us to be wed then, so that he may witness it."

Runa was a little surprised. She had not considered marrying when her father's messenger arrived with his demands, but as she thought, she realized that it made the most sense. Her father and Jarl Thorsen would learn of their marriage with no loss of time. Eventually Runa nodded in agreement, replying "Your judgment is sound, my Jarl, and I will try to yield to it in all ways. It would be good for my father's messenger to witness our marriage, so he might return and make it known that we are wed."

The thought of their upcoming marriage brought a delicate, rosy glow to the girl's cheeks, and in the next moment she looked into Gunnar's eyes, her own filled with both hope and uncertainty. "My Jarl... when it is known that we have wed, do you believe... do you believe that my father will insist on going to war? I hope... I pray that he will be content, but he has never taken me into his confidance, and I cannot be sure. Jarl Thorsen... I believe he will be very angry... but again I cannot predict his reaction to our marriage. I have not a man's mind. I pray that no harm need be done."

 

[a_libertine]

"I believe there will indeed be a war, but no fault of yours. It was probably inevitable, but I believe your father will not engage in it."

Gunnar stood and walked to the wall of the solarium, opened a hidden panel and pulled a long gold chain with a ball hanging from it. He walked over to Runa, and held his hand out for her to stand.

After she stood, Gunnar reached around her waist, settling the ball just below her navel. Wrapping the gold chain around her, he clasped it closed. "Wear this at all times, Runa. It goes under your clothes. When you think of me, it will bring your pleasurable sensations. When I think of you, it will do the same."

Sitting back down Gunnar watched as Runa looked at the magic ball hanging from the chain. He considered the possibilities with Runa, how submissive would she truly be. Would her every breath be for his pleasure and that alone?

Deciding to test a little, he asked, "Would pour us a cup of coffee? I like a touch of honey in mine."

 

[naughtycammy]

"I believe there will indeed be a war, but no fault of yours. It was probably inevitable, but I believe your father will not engage in it."

While Runa did not want there to be a war, she was comforted by the thought that her father would probably not insist on one. She also tried to convince herself that the actions of her father and Jarl Thorsen stemmed from their own decisions, not her own. She only prayed that her betrothed would be merciful to her father if war did arise between them.

Runa looked a little surprised as Gunnar rose, watching with wonder as he opened a secret panel and returned with a long golden chain from which a golden ball hung. With eyes full of curious innocence, the girl accepted his hand and stood, her cheeks flushing as her betrothed wrapped the chain around her waist and clasped it, the ball hanging just beneath her navel. Runa first thought it was an ordinary chain, and was about to thank Gunnar for his gift when he explained.

"Wear this at all times, Runa. It goes under your clothes. When you think of me, it will bring your pleasurable sensations. When I think of you, it will do the same."

The girl's blue eyes went wide with surprise, her cheeks flushing deeply as she realized what he must mean. Runa had never experienced sexual pleasure, learning from a young age that all ladies remained virgins until their wedding night. It seemed wicked somehow to receive such pleasure before she was Gunnar's wife, but he was her betrothed, and Runa trusted him. She looked down at the little golden ball, at last looking up with bashful eyes as she replied "Y-Yes my Jarl... I will wear it if you wish me to..."

"Would pour us a cup of coffee? I like a touch of honey in mine."

"Oh!" Runa gasped, realizing how rude she had been by not offering to refill her betrothed's cup. She quickly sat, her hands reaching for the coffee pot as she continued "Please forgive me my Jarl. I did not mean to be so lax." The girl carefully filled his cup with the hot, dark fluid, smiling softly as the color reminded her of Gunnar's eyes. After filling her cup as well, Runa added honey to each, as well as a little sugar to her own. She smiled as she presented him with the cup, her eyes filled with hope and the desire to please. "I hope you will find it acceptable, my Jarl."

Runa waited until Gunnar had accepted and drank from his cup before sipping from her own, her expression once again becoming shy as she looked down at the chain she now wore. Blushing deeply, unable to look him in the eye, the girl whispered "My Jarl... pardon me if I am too bold, but this belt worries me a little. I have not yet..." here her blush deepened "... experienced physical love... I know not how such pleasures will affect me, and I fear how I may react in public if caught unaware..." At last Runa's eyes lifted to his, her own filled with the trusting loyalty of a wife. "But I will of course obey your wishes, my Jarl... if you so command me."

 

[a_libertine]

Runa's head tilted down, hiding her eys from him as she whispered, "My Jarl... pardon me if I am too bold, but this belt worries me a little. I have not yet..." had he been the type, Gunnar would have roared with laughter as Runa's face turned crimson while continuing, "... experienced physical love... I know not how such pleasures will affect me, and I fear how I may react in public if caught unaware..."

At last Runa's eyes lifted to his, her own filled with the trusting loyalty of a wife. "But I will of course obey your wishes, my Jarl... if you so command me."

He arched an eyebrow at her last comment then said, "Have I not done so already? Did I not say, 'Wear this at all times, Runa. It goes under your clothes.'?"

 

[naughtycammy]

"Have I not done so already? Did I not say, 'Wear this at all times, Runa. It goes under your clothes.'?"

Runa instantly flushed with shame at Gunnar's words, afraid she had angered him or lowered herself in his eyes. She looked very small as she lowered her eyes, unable to look into his as she softly replied "Forgive me, my Jarl. I did not mean to contradict you. I will obey your wishes as you have explained. Please pardon my foolishness..."