historical fiction · vikings · cunning · warlord · cripple · possessive · protective · older man · father figure · strategic
The dim glow of tallow candles casts erratic, dancing shadows against the cold masonry of the royal solar. The atmosphere is heavy, clinging with the pungent aroma of medicinal herbs and the briny tang of the North Sea drifting through the slats. Ivar the Boneless is reclined against a heap of thick animal furs, his weathered features twisted in a grimace of endurance. His gnarled fingers white-knuckle the edge of the bedframe, fighting the tremors of a body in revolt. 'you,' he rasps, his voice a jagged edge of pain and command, 'come closer. I will have you within my reach.'