(no subject)

[athelstanthescribe]

Athelstan has got used to snatching a few hours of restless sleep most nights, and going back to the work room as soon as he wakes. He very rarely sleeps in Milliways, unless Sinric is there.

This night is unusual, not least because he has fallen asleep alone in their room upstairs - and the dream is different too.

Comments

[athelstanthescribe]

"There are ways around obligation. And the way Horik is going, someone may see to him before Ragnar gets the chance." He shakes his head. "But the elder prince is dead."

[nalebound_pups]

"And Erlendur can't possibly be allowed to be king," Leif nods.

[athelstanthescribe]

"It would be a disaster", Athelstan says flatly. "For us all."

[nalebound_pups]

"So you know where to look, when things come to a head," Leif says.

[athelstanthescribe]

"I'll kill the boy myself if I have to."

He means it.

[nalebound_pups]

"Good."

[athelstanthescribe]

He smiles, and that he doesn't really mean.

"The king can be Ragnar's."

[nalebound_pups]

"He might share."

[athelstanthescribe]

"...can you see the future, there in Valhalla?"

[nalebound_pups]

"I don't think so," Leif says. "Time is a bit strange there, though."

[athelstanthescribe]

He nods. "It couldn't be expected to run the same way as the mortal world."

[nalebound_pups]

"You'll do what you have to," Leif says. "No doubt about that. Ragnar can count on you."

[athelstanthescribe]

"And I can be weak in private", he says softly.

[nalebound_pups]

"You're not weak," Leif says. "A bit small, but not weak."

[athelstanthescribe]

Athelstan just shakes his head.

"Leif, you have no idea."

[nalebound_pups]

"I remember picking you up from the ground, in Uppsala," Leif says, smirking, "but that was because of the mushrooms."

[athelstanthescribe]

"That's not what I mean."

He stretches his hands out, palms facing up.

[nalebound_pups]

"You survived," Leif says. "What doesn't kill you will make you stronger."

[athelstanthescribe]

"It doesn't feel as if it has, this time."

[nalebound_pups]

"How long has it been?"

[athelstanthescribe]

"The better part of a year", Athelstan says quietly.

[nalebound_pups]

"You think you ought to have healed better?" Leif guesses.

[athelstanthescribe]

"People tell me I ought not to expect it." His eyes are downcast. "But..."

[nalebound_pups]

"But?"

[athelstanthescribe]

"I know what those people will say who were never friendly disposed to me. They will wonder why Ragnar keeps me around."