The Scarred Viking's Bride (On Temp. Hold)

Twenty-Five

"Are you ready?" Ingrid asked as she did last minute touches on my kransen, twisting and twirling the flowers, stones, and silk on my head to frame my loose hair.

Jitters in my stomach and my throat tightening with nerves made me speechless in the moment, making me only nod in response. I had not seen Aderick since we last departed from our chambers only a morning ago. I wanted to see him badly, to talk to him about everything that had happened, but it was frowned upon to see my groom so soon to the wedding. At this moment I was not having second thoughts, only a rush of emotions that today was the day.

The day I finally was getting married.

Everything was going so smoothly. The kransen that adorned my head was beautiful, black and gold silk paired lovely with the small white flowers and clear rock crystals intertwined in the crown. Hilde did a magnificent job on it, I could not have asked for anything more stunning. My gown, which I had made last minute changes to, was simple yet exquisite. With the cream billowing long sleeves and flowing skirts, 'twas a comfortable yet perfect for a bride like me. The corset was tight, pushing my breasts up, which I had a feeling Aderick would be pleased with. The fabric was soft yet thick, as the weather was slowly beginning to get colder and colder by the day. The belt around my hips was a thick black silk sash with gold thread stitched into patterns of vines. The final touch was the rich fur shawl that covered my shoulders to keep out the frigid wind.

Oils had been added to my hair to keep it smooth and untangled as it typically did on an average day. Rita joked that it would help Aderick not rip through my thick locks when he ran his hands through my hair this eventide in the chambers. My entire face went flaming red from her coy words. From what I could tell from the reflection in the water of the tub, my golden hair shimmered and glowed like the sun.

"Alright, shall we go? I am sure everyone is ready for us out in the grove." Ingrid said finally after she pulled her dainty hands away from my hair and crown.

She eyed me from top to bottom, ensuring that everything was perfect, or nearly so. I let out a ragged breath and squared my shoulders, finally ready to be married to the man that has captured my scarred heart.

I nodded and murmured, "Ja, let us be on our way."

Following Ingrid and the other women from my warm chambers to the outside, the chilly day cooled my rosy cheeks and forced me to walk quickly to reach the grove before my teeth began to chatter. I glanced over and noticed Balder, Ivar, and Trond carrying the swords of my family, but the sword of Pappa would be the one I would give to Aderick in the ceremony. Balder held in carefully in his grasp, waiting to follow me to the grove. I was sure this was Aderick's way of Balder working back to gain his trust. Holding such a precious item was only to those responsible, and I was glad Balder was able to do this for us. I nodded to him who responded in turn, his eyes now the only trait that held emotion or expression. The regret of the past was bright in his eyes, yet I had forgiven him for all of it. Today, Frigga's-Day, marked a new beginning for all of us.

Turning away and racing hastily to catch up with Ingrid, my eyes caught on her dark purple gown with the gold and black accents. Everyone was dressing their best for their Jarl's wedding ceremony and the feast. Ingrid's hair was twisted into a long dark braid, little flowers gave life to her mahogany tresses. It had only taken her a small amount of time to complete her look, whereas it took hours for me to be completely dressed and ready to go.

The nerves and jitters continued to churn as we walked deeper into the trees. The sun peered out from the covering clouds, the rays shining on my face. A small smile reached my face as I closed my eyes.

This was a sign from my family and the gods, a blessing to continue on with my life and with Aderick.

I had their approval.