Free Love's Fury (Viking's Fury #1) by Violetta Rand Page B

a Saxon as anything more than dust beneath his feet.
    “I’ve learned of your father’s death.” Ivarr stepped off the dais, limping and carrying a wood box. “Scholars are valuable, even to a heathen like me. As you know, my interests extend beyond trading and the agricultural value of these lands. Had I known your sire was inside the scriptorium, I would have protected him.”
    She shifted on her feet, staring at the floor. “Your consideration is appreciated, milord.” She raised her head.
    Konal could feel the tension creeping up her spine.
    “I know reparations cannot restore your happiness.” The prince stood in front of them now. “But in my country, when someone is killed—accidently or otherwise—it is customary to offer wergild to the surviving family members. In this case, I wish to give you this.” He opened the box.
    Embroidered gowns and jewels. Konal licked his lips. “Thank you.” He spoke on her behalf.
    “Let her speak freely,” Ivarr commanded.
    Although her hands were bound, Silvia ran her fingers over the light-colored fabrics. Then, she picked up a silver collar embellished with sapphires.
    “A necklace fit for a jarl’s wife,” the prince said.
    “Milord,” she said. “These gifts are too rich for the daughter of a scribe. What shall I do with them?”
    Ivarr smiled. “Whatever you see fit.”
    She curtsied.
    “As for your escort.” Ivarr turned his attention to Konal. “I’m willing to promote you and offer more gold if you’ll stay another year. Few men accomplish what you have in such a short time. Half my warriors love you, the others want to stick a knife in your back.”
    Konal laughed. He’d already demonstrated what he’d do to any man who challenged him. “Your praise is gift enough, milord.”
    “Ah,” Ivarr said. “I know there’s nothing I can do to keep you here. Your father’s ship arrived a week ago. His men will meet you soon. Go with the gods, Jarl Konal.” He thrust the box in Konal’s hands.
    Konal hesitated for a moment. He’d made a name for himself here, established friendships, fought in one of the bloodiest sieges and survived. With gold and silver and other assets at his disposal, he’d return to Norway a respected man. But as the second in line for his father’s seat of power, what really awaited him across the sea? For he could never accept his eldest brother’s rule after tasting what it felt like to be a jarl. If he stayed, there were no limits. But his heart ached for the icy blue fjords and mountains, the forest and snow, and family.
    Ready to go, he grasped Ivarr’s arm with his free hand. “ En medvind på ryggen vår er best .” A fair wind at your back is best.

Chapter Ten
    “I s it so bad keeping company with me?” Konal stared down at Silvia from his horse with an unreadable expression. “The evening sky is clear. And the winds are light. We’ll sleep comfortably tonight without a fire.”
    Only if she could get him to free her hands and stay as far away as possible. After half a night and a full day of riding, her arse ached. Twenty miles into their journey, she no longer recognized the countryside. Having only traveled a few miles beyond York, her whole life revolved around the familiar sights and sounds within the city walls. And the cottage. The further away she got, the heavier her heart grew. She prayed silently, remembering her father and the men who died trying to reclaim the city. She begged for guidance, patience, understanding, and even a bit of forgiveness for the man who continued to protect her from the savages that surrounded them.
    The five soldiers escorting them were little better than ravenous dogs. Dressed in full armor, thick beards braided and adorned with silver and gold beads, they reminded her of everything she feared. Heathens with little else to do but search for something to kill. Three of them went hunting the minute Konal picked a place to camp for the night. The other two wandered off to