Prologue

The air was tangy, beautiful aromas of fruit and women whiffed through the air as I walked among the groups of women without a doubt in mind, there were no worries or hurting spirits that sobbed with agony. This was the land of the selfless, we’re always willing to help the neighboring ones around us no matter the case but with a land of women, certain things were a no go. We enjoyed each other’s company and danced with one another happily as women sung loudly in praises, we were happy were we are with plentiful fruit and desirable beliefs that anything was possible, that hope was abundant.

I stretched up to the sky as the soft singing beckoned on everyone to dance, I twirled softly before dipping down then hopping back to my tippy toes as the soft hues of voices rung into my ears and blessed them. I couldn’t stop the large grin coming to my face as I mimicked the other dancing people while my long, flowing blonde hair swirled and teasingly brushed against the back of my ankles, I giggled as another smiled at me before coming to follow the rhythm of the voices as I joined in singing and my voice mingled with the others. I stooped down with everyone else before coming back to my feet in a quick swirl in my spot as everyone else did it at the same time as me, the moves were so delicate and rhythmic that I memorized them the moment I first did it.

Oh, how the years went by and I was soon a fourteen year old learning to sew and cook for my own healthy need, at least until I was swept off my feet by a peaceful foreigner coming to enjoy the bliss of peace and hope. Harmful predators lurked in the distance now and then, and when times come that we had to abandon home, we did with ease and happily camped elsewhere until the dangerous of lurking mischiefs found themselves off our diminutive island and then we would return back home and continue to let our love prosper and profoundly spread amongst one another. I twirled again, the ends of my dress heightened up as I swirled with happiness before pausing to swirl the opposite way.

I enjoyed the fun I was having with the others while waiting for dinner to be served, it would consist of all vegetation and no meat of the sort, vegetarians we are and vegetarians we would always stay. I beckoned another woman forth as she nervously stood in far distance, she was young, no older than ten as I was now eighteen with the knowledge of a fifty year old because that’s who I spent all my days with now that I was capable of taking care of myself and someone else. The desire to bare child like the women of the cult wasn’t in my favor, I didn’t have the correct body parts appose to them, their genitals went in while mine jutted out and while it was sad to say I could never have a child, I still liked the idea of it being possible.

I took the ten year old girl’s hands and twirled her around as she giggled before I twirled her the opposite way with a smile on my face, I felt like one of the older women that bared children and while I should be getting ready to ship away incase I met the man of my dreams, I didn’t want to go. I twirled the ten year old again, I then swirled her off her feet and lifted her into the air as she laughed loudly, I gently placed her back on the ground before doing a twirl myself as the ends of my dress rose and stopped twirling in front of the child then went to join the line of dancers as we did our favorite dance of all the dances.

Glee poisoned the air the most, we were happy people and we believed it was contagious to the fruit and vegetable crops growing for us. I exited the line as the rest of the people continued, laughing and celebrating nothing in particular other than a new day, we had woken for the day and that was because the Lord above helped us. We were Christian born and bred, we grew up learning about religion and it’s benefits so we could pass it to our children in the future, I lightly twirled in the direction of the buffet before grabbing an apple and biting into it as the ten year old followed me. I passed it to her and grabbed another one before waving to Mannie as she dug a whole to plant a couple of pear seeds for growth. This was plenty of the life I needed, I enjoyed this freedom and this hope that I was given…

…only if I knew sooner that I would be taken away from it.

**~Evy **

Chapter One

When I awoke, it wasn’t as pretty as it was yesterday or any other day, for that matter… and I guess that was suppose to be the warning sign that we drastically missed, the elders saw it as God helping us with the crops but the constant thunder and sparkling lightening was rather odd in the since. We never experienced terrible weather other than a tiny shower every other week, and it was helpful to the vegetation that grew in the fields but to see this type of weather was fearful to my soul, even if it wasn’t to anyone else’s. I moved from my cotton cot and braced my hand against the wall of my pitch black room, I found my candle stick and quickly lit the candle made of tree sap. I held it in front of me as I progressed from my tiny room and made it to where others were sleeping, I quietly made it pass the rooms before pushing the wooden door of the huts open carefully, the wind forced it to smack against the wall hard.

I flinched at the blow before stepping out and the heavy wind immediately dispersed my flame into nothing, I frowned as I glanced around while my long strands of hair whipped around me forcefully. It was midday so people were up and moving but others stayed in the safety of their homes away from the forceful wind, the heavy poor, and the murderous lightening that struck the land often. I looked up to the sky in confusion as the wind whirled and caused my hair to fly everywhere, what could of caused this type of weather? Did we not worship the Lord enough? I fell to my knees and started a soft prayer with my head dipped down and my hands flat against one another as I softly whispered my love to the man above, I thanked him for protecting me and seeing to my aid whenever I needed him.

Halfway through my prayer, something bad started to broil inside my stomach and I knew it was because something bad was about to happen, I paused and pulled myself to my feet as my hair whirled and my long dress twisted in the wind, something isn’t right. A loud horn roared into the air with a few battle cries as I lifted my dress and ran the direction of the shore, it was little ways away and I stumbled to a stop as I collapsed to my hands and knees at the top hill. My eyes widened as the line of the shore had two large dragon-ships occupying it, the figurehead was of a large scorpion with many burly man jumping over the side of the boat and starting to run toward the large hill I was cushioned on. This isn’t good, they’re not good people! I quickly rushed to my feet, running back the little ways of the village with many thoughts rushing through my head, I have to get people to safety, even if it cost my own life. I could hear their thundering feet over the heavy pour of the rain as my wet hair stuck to my face while I kicked up mud while it glued itself to my bare feet, I felt like everything was happening in slow motion as I ran with a look of bewilderment on my face.

“Vikings!” I screamed. “Run!”

“No…” Someone said in shock, her mouth falling open as she dropped her fruit and quickly went to warn the others. “The Vikings! They’ve found us! Get to the forest, now!” Her warnings rushed through the air as people quickly got what they could and started to slowly make runs for it.

I heard a loud battle cry and whipped around to face a large burly man as he paused to yell to the sky before lifting his great axe and then dropping his head to look at us with envy, lust, and desire. I backed away in shock as he grabbed the first woman passing him, she screamed in horror while shoving her children away in a signal that told them to run, I screamed for people to continue running while standing my ground as the woman was slung away and the burly man turned to face me as I directed people where to go. I looked at him and backed away as he cocked his head at me and his deep blue eyes pierced into my soul as I turned and started to make a run for it as well.

I looked back to see if he was following me, I knew it would be easy for him to catch me but I still had a chance, the forest barrier was only miles away from the village but it still took time to get there. I stumbled and planted to the ground as I felt someone grab my shoulder, I looked up to see Ammie, she was the ten year old I danced with yesterday. I pushed her and beckoned her to keep running as she ignored me with tears pouring down her cheeks and mingling with the rain rushing down her face.

“Go, Ammie. Run.” I ordered, pushing her again as I slowly pulled myself to my foot but it was too late as she was swooped off her feet by one of the large man as I was then grabbed as well.

I screamed as someone buried their hand in my long locks of hair, I sobbed loudly while trying to free myself so I could get to Ammie while she kicked and screamed in fear at the top of her lungs, she was just a child and she was about to be sold because of these big men that just can’t be happy with what they have. I fought as my hair was released and I turned away to give the big man that was once holding my hair some kicks, I hoped I would hit in the groan as he glared at me with his deep blue eyes falling into mine. I sobbed in fear as I backed away before looking for Ammie as the man attempting to take me as his prisoner grabbed my arm and hauled me to my feet easily. I stumbled as pain rocked from my foot and surged into my blood, I looked down with tears pouring down my cheeks as I noticed the large gash on the top of my feet that was spewing red liquid profusely out of the big wound.

I limped as I sobbed with each step, I had no clue and Ammie was also being taken prisoner because of me, I stumbled and collapsed to the ground with another tearful sob as the man only lifted me up again and continued to march me back to their ship. I glanced back as I was marched down the hill to see the rest of the Vikings passing headed for the forest, I sobbed as my knees buckled but I caught myself with a little bit of stumbling, or the man caught me, at the least. I felt lightweight as he lifted me over his shoulder and carried me with my blood dripping to the floor, I gagged and sobbed more as I saw the smoke rising in the air, my home was going to be gone forever and it made me want to hide away.

The small huts we shared were now up and flames as I looked at the sandy shore, the small jagged rocks looked sharp and painful if I happened to step on them but luckily the man was carrying me but unluckily I couldn’t run away, but I wouldn’t leave Ammie to face them herself, she was but a child. I was sat inside the dragon-ship gently and I quickly grabbed Ammie as she screamed and wailed for comfort, I held her to my busty chest while nervously searching the faces of lust-hungry men as they eyed us while either coming or going. The guy holding me captive hopped over the side of the ship and threateningly stepped to a couple of the other guys as they tried to get closer so they could get a better look at me. I was scared for Ammie and I’s lives, considering they were in the hands of the barbarian Viking that was ready to pound his large first over someone’s head just for cutting me a second glance.

Gulping audibly, I slowly backed away to make it appear like I wasn’t moving, watching the barbarian Viking as he slammed his forehead into someone else’s before sinking his fist into another Viking’s jaw. I cringed at the violence, immediately pulling Ammie tighter into my chest while shielding my face in her long hair, I squeezed her tightly while hoping that we wouldn’t be the large man’s next victims as a loud shout was heard and soon, the boat wavered while we undocked. I pulled my head up quickly to make sure I was actually right and surely I was, the dragon-ship waved with the currents as more men hopped over the siding or grabbed oars to stir us a certain way.

I looked back toward the altercation to find that it had thankfully stopped, the other Vikings were backing down while the man sneered harsh things their way, he triumphantly bellowed to the roaring sky as the rain continued to trickle down my face and causing my hair to mold to my head, I felt little as he raised his battleaxe in warning. With his back to me, I was able to see the hard work he had faced while occupying his place, deep scars and even a fresh wound ran up and down his large, brawny back as he finally settled enough to turn and face me with deep blue eyes glaring. My eyes fell to his clean battleaxe and I felt a little better knowing that he didn’t cause any bloodshed himself, I noticed his step closer and flinched away in the fear that he’d take Ammie away or me away from Ammie and leave her to the other crewmates.

His deep blue eyes continued to stare at me as I nervously met his gaze before fearfully averting my eyes, I didn’t want to know what his plans were for me because I knew they weren’t good. He wore a protective covering of bracers around both his wrist with many buckles securing the fabrics tightly for protection, a red tarp was thrown over his head with a sleeve of buckled fabric completely running up one of his arms. Rope belting kept his pelt and chain skirt in place as he stood with his thick legs at shoulder length apart, the sheath of his knife was tied around his thick left thigh with more protective garment framing his calves incase he was physically fighting, and legs were always a target. Now facing me, I was able to see the more scares around his front as he had healed rips that zig-zag and curved along his well-defined, brawny frame that was so overpowering and intimidating.

The barbarian Viking was dual wielding a large knife that looked like it sliced through the thickest deer flesh easily, as well as his original battleaxe in the opposite hand and ready to slaughter anyone that happened to attack the large man out of stupidity. Even standing up to him, I would still be tiny and the fight would be futile but I was even more vulnerable as I was on my knees with Ammie protectively wrapped in my arms. He could easily behead me at the swing of his great battleaxe but him not doing so kept me questioning, what was his real reasoning for me other than lustfully having his way with me unwillingly before passing me on to yet another crewmate with the same cycle happening. What was the use of fitting this future of mine, if Ammie hadn’t gotten caught, as well as many other people I knew, I would of jumped ship and had my way with the sharks trailing not to far behind.

I flinched back when the burly man put his thick hand out for me to grab after he had sheathed his giant bladed knife, I stared at his hand attentively, making sure it wasn’t his idea of a joke as I unsurely lifted my hand. My hand shook as I thought twice about touching him, did I really want to touch someone so foul and disgusting as I was still so pure and debatable? I went to pull my hand back but the burly man denied my reaction by quickly grabbing my hand and yanking me to my feet, my arm cramped from the move as I continued to hold Ammie in one hand.

I stood up and held tightly to her dress as she looked around wearily, her eyes scanned the watching crowd as they all stood from a distance, their eyes solely on her body as I thought of the things those disgusting men would do to this pour child, they show no mercy to anyone. I looked at the barbarian holding me up in fear that he would do something extravagant in the eyes of the onlookers, would he allow them to have their way with me or would he decide to keep me to himself. A question that soon would be answered, I assumed as I waited for the man to address me personally, was he going to be forceful and demanding or was he going to be patient and questionable?

“Come.” His voice was heavy and well accented as I almost didn’t understand what he was inclining, so I stood there with a questioning face while he pulled my hand lightly. “Come.”

I stammered from the gentle pulls that he desperately took caution with, I knew he was trying to not harm me but that’s what all a Viking was to our peaceful eye, they were just harmful men that didn’t see love, they saw lust and greed. I was going to have to suffer one way or the other, I was going to be handed off to many men just so they would all be satisfied and then probably tossed off ship in the middle ocean to drown to death, but that would still leave behind Ammie so I have to be as useful as possible. I stared on in fear at the many crewmates and smiling faces as they watched us intriguingly, it must of been common for Vikings to fight over women or… men before the losers submitted with the hope of seeing what they lost.

I had expected the large Viking to throw Ammie to the crewmates carelessly before taking the chance to expose my body to the crowd while they all cheered in watched on. I knew there was a lot of possibilities that something like that could still happen, considering we were still standing by the outer edge of the boat, there weren’t any compartments or privacy so I guess you could say I was lucky but that luck would run out when the large barbarian got excessively lustful and refused to deny my wishes. The gigantic Viking led me toward a seating area in the back, the center of the boat was filled with food and other valuable trinkets that would probably be sold once all the Vikings reached homeland.

The Viking gestured to a bench and I slowly took a seat, watching the large man cautiously as he moved to his personal basket he shared and searched through for something, I stared at him while still clutching to Ammie as she stood because there was no room for her. I lifted her into my lap and tightened my hands with one another incase I had to put up a fight, I didn’t want to know the things they would do to the poor girl before we even reached land. I knew Ammie was a trophy at her age, men would probably sell their finest jewelry for her age and I refused to sell her, I wanted to make sure her life was as full and hopeful as mine but not hopeful enough to where she’s wishing she was still pure.

The Viking turned abruptly and I flinched at his sudden movement, he was a true Viking that was quick on his feet and appeared to react very well when it came to defending himself and his belongings. I gulped while glancing toward the crowd as they viewed the other women that were nearby, standing with the ones that captured them or shriveled in a corner with the previous women already on the overstocked boat. I looked at the gigantic man, watching as he held up what probably was once someone’s most prized possession, I watched as he held up the beautiful, gold necklace for me to see before moving forward and carefully trying to snap it around my neck.

It felt relatively heavy as it thumped against my exposed flesh, I held completely still as the man concentrated while reaching past Ammie to correct the necklace after securing it in place around my neck. What could this have meant? Was this him calling me his property? Was his trying to earn something from within me? Respect? Favoritism? I looked down at the beautiful necklace and stared while trying to comprehend what was happening, I hadn’t expected such a beautiful necklace to handed to me but it was and it was so beautiful.

“I… It is beautiful…” I whispered, staring at it in awe as Ammie even stared at it, her hand was close to it but it was as if she was scared to touch it… I was scared for her to touch it.

“It was my mother’s,” His deep voice reverberated into the moist ocean air with his delicious accent, “I carry it everywhere, as you will now.”

I stared at the gigantic barbarian while realizing I was seeing his soft side, he had given me a necklace and hadn’t even made an attempt to bed me yet, maybe I got lucky? Then again, this is just the first day…

_~Evy _

Chapter Two

I awoke to the sound of the swishing waves as they crashed against the heavy armored boat that kept me captive but safe along the flow of the ocean, the heavy waves made the pendant necklace smack against my chest as I laid on the bench with Ammie close to my chest in a protective manner. I glanced around and took in the peace and quietness of the ship as most of the vikings slept, the ship rocked gently and after finally realizing what was happening with the ship, I started to get seasick. I reached up and cupped my mouth fearfully, I didn’t want to barf on the boat or Ammie so I had to make the second best choice, I pulled away from Ammie and dashed to the side of the bench. I grabbed the edge and tipped my head over as the burning liquid poured from my stomach, I gagged as the vomit poured into the ocean thickly and I was sure I was getting more than just seasick, I could be getting an infection of some sort.

I slowly pulled my head back and wiped the back of my hand over my mouth while sheepishly glancing around to see if anyone was awake to witness my embarrassment. I looked up to find the solo Viking that hadn’t let me out of his sight since he found me, the one that gifted me a necklace that probably notified others that I was taken, the one barbarian Viking that took me from my home. He silently held a water-skin to me as I kept my hand cupped over my mouth, the repulsive taste of vomit rung in my mouth and that drink would be helpful but there was still small bickering in the back of my head that old me not to trust him. I nibbled on my lip before dropping my hand and nervously reaching for the water-skin, the Viking gestured it toward me once more and I took it while still looking into his deep blue eyes as they stared back at me shamelessly.

I then lifted the water-skin nozzle to my mouth and lifted the pack, allowing the liquid to flow into my mouth and immediately, it caused me to recoil in disgust as the burning in my throat maximized, the disgusting taste of brandy assaulted my taste buds as the big Viking laughed at my reaction. I found no humor as I glared at him while aggressively throwing the opened water-skin back at him with no second thought, the brandy splashed into his lap as he sat up like it was fire, he quickly grabbed the water-skin and used the opposite hand to observed his brandy-soiled lap. I regrettably crossed my arms over my chest and averted my eyes, I was hoping he wouldn’t clap me over the head or even sacrifice me to the sharks tailing behind us because of such a move but it was a risk that I took none of the less.

I looked back at the barbarian Viking finally before watching as he took his seat and wiped at the small droplets of brandy that sat in his lap, he looked up at me finally and just stared, probably shocked about me throwing his liquor all over his lap. I was shocked myself, I had never thought of such a bold move on anyone and while our village never drunk wines or brewery drinks, I knew exactly what it was and it could make people do pretty crazy things. Instead, the man reached into his basket once more and pulled out a loaf of bread that made my stomach growled heavily, I reached and cupped my stomach with a frown before looking at the full loaf of bread as the Viking stared at it as well. I didn’t know his intentions but I hope they weren’t going to be to let some good bread go to waste, I did not want to risk my own innocence or dignity for food so I was going to play this smart and safe.

I stared at the loaf of bread as the barbarian Viking stared at me, I rose an eyebrow and what shocked me most was that his thick eyebrow mimicked mine and only made him look even scarier with a scowl. I immediately started to consider just going back to bed on an empty stomach because I had no idea what this man wanted from me, I could be sold into the slave trade by the time we reach inland, and it seems he’s not much of a talker unless actually provoked.

“Are you… going to eat that?” I asked quietly, not wanting to disturb the sleeping others or Vikings on duty.

He didn’t reply, only looked at it then looked back up with yet another scowl, I nibbled on my lip and averted my eyes while wondering what I would find for food, I had no idea who would give me food out the kindness of their heart. I looked back at the unnamed Viking before looking down at the golden pendant on my chest, if I was his property, then he should be feeding me… correct? It’s like if you have animals, you’re suppose to feed them to keep them alive and love them out the comfort of your own heart, but I’m no animal. Finally, the Viking moved closer to me and I immediately tensed from the movement, his intentions still weren’t clear and I was hoping he wouldn’t ask for anything in return, while that was very rare. The Viking held the bread toward me, it was a piece of boule from a French settlement, I was sure and I could care less how old it was, I’m going to devour it none of the less.

I reached forward without hesitation and took the boule, feeling the crispy outer ring of the loaf while knowing there was a nice, cold but fluffy center waiting, and… I have to share some with Ammie when she wakes. I reached up and sniffed it aimlessly before lifting it to my mouth, it was a habit that was somewhat useless with certain foods because they couldn’t be poisoned with venomous fruits or even deadly seeping from plants. I bit into the bread, my teeth immediately severed a bite off as I ripped a nice hung for myself while leaving Ammie with more than enough bread, not unless I decided to bite more off.

I sat her piece aside and grabbed my piece that was still hanging from my mouth, I glanced up to watch the blue-eyed Viking watching me mysteriously, his eyes watched every movement I made as I used the bottom of my foot to rub at the mosquito bites running up my leg. I chewed my bread slowly, taking small portions to savor the food and possibly fill my stomach enough to put more bread aside for a later time. I nibbled longer, glancing up at the man before me as he watched me eat like a rabbit, nibbling on what was in my hands carefully.

“What is your name?” He finally asked, making me look up at him as his deep blue eyes stared into my soul.

I pulled the bread from my mouth and chewed what was there, I swallowed and bit my lip while debating if I should lie or not. “I’m Evy.” I whispered, submitting to his watchful gaze.

“Evy.” He copied, making me glance up at him once more before lifting my bread back to my mouth. “Very pretty.”

I immediately blushed, to say that this Viking before me wasn’t handsome would be a lie and I was raised to not tell such bold lies. He was very sexy, and all wrongful thoughts aside, after most of the Vikings started to slowly shred their layers, they were all handsome with brawny bodies. However, wounds and scars covered portions from their handwork and dedication, marred skin decorated their arms and legs from fires or branding that was a sign of punishment in their world. I blinked to distinguish the thoughts and took a small bite of my bread before looking at the man and waiting for him to ask me yet another question, one that I knew was coming. The Viking reached forward, grabbing a medium-length strand of my blonde hair that was framing my face to gently run along his thick, rugged fingers that were rough from daily work and training, he was a full man and so brawny.

My lip quivered unconsciously, making me sink my teeth into it as I almost leaned into his soft touch as his finger brushed against the exposed skin of my shoulder. I looked up to the night sky while trying to appear distracted, the stars glistened and the rocking of the boat as it sailed made it seem like they were moving, not us. I then dropped my eyes to the stern of the ship and looked at the nothingness as we rocked along the ocean while sailing in the direction that I had no idea of, I had no clue if we were going east or west, or even north. I was only here because I had no decision, and it was my fault Ammie was stuck here with me because I was too clumsy and dumb to get away with her, if something happened to her, I wouldn’t be able to live with myself because not only would I be alone, I wouldn’t be able to procreate for a new hope. I took another small bite of my bread as the Viking continued to toy with my hair, making me grow anxious to know his next destination and his intentions, which still haven’t shown.

“What is your name?” I finally asked, hoping it’ll save me time as the moon nestled along the horizon, ready to be replaced with the sun, thankfully . “I’ve never met-”

_“Aye! Twelve, ya off watch!” _

“I’m Twelve.” He whispered lastly, a small smile lingering on his face before he turned away and occupied an empty bench near me.

I watched as he laid down on the bench before staring up at the sky as it started to grow lighter, the sun sparkled below the horizon but continued to shine none of the less as I stared at it while pondering the Viking’s name… Twelve, his name was Twelve. A number, did he see himself as a number? I reached up and aimlessly touched the golden pendant on my chest while wondering if it opened, I looked down as my blonde bangs fell around me in ropes of hair, circling and comforting me as I grabbed the pendant holder and held it gently while hoping not to break it. I would hate to break the Viking’s… Twelve’s mother necklace after he had just given it to me yesterday, I gently pushed the mechanism and it unlocked before I pulled the lid back for something to fall in my lap.

I quickly grabbed the item and lifted it up to see what it was, it was a small chunk of metal that made me raise an eyebrow and I almost considered tossing it over the side of the boat before deciding that maybe I had been to sheltered by the village to know what this chunk of metal was. I carefully sat it back inside before snapping the pendant close and taking a deep breath while pushing on the lid to make sure it was actually closed, I bit my lip as I debated what to do. I glanced over at Twelve as he laid with his back toward me and I knew very soon that I would be the only one of us three up, I decided the best decision would be to get some rest before Twelve was to wake up again, and possibly keep my attention from sleeping with questions and answers. I wrapped Ammie’s piece of bread in a torn piece of fabric from my dress before setting it under the bench she was sleeping on, I gently pecked her head before taking the floor between the two occupied benches to sleep.

I smiled lightly as I heard Twelve’s snores in the air while two others woke to replace his spot as watch, I closed my own eyes and yawned tiredly while allowing my head to fall on the wooden bottom. The sound of the waves crashing against my ears assaulted me as I was lullabied to sleep by the ocean’s song, and what a beautiful song it was as I quietly listened to the world quieting around me.

_~Evy _

Chapter Three

I’m going to throw up…

I covered my mouth and squeezed my eyes tightly before sighing as the curling in my stomach lessened for the moment as the ship rocked heavily along the harder waves, we were nearing a storm and it was something I could feel approaching in the distance. I looked up at the roaring sky as lightening sparked within, I looked back down at Ammie as she sat near me with her eyes closed, a piece of bread hanging from her mouth as she softly slept. I wrapped my arm around her protectively as she stirred from the heavy rocking of the boat before dosing off once more, I wish I could sleep as easily as her but the thought of land was on my mind, who knew how long we would be at sea? I wanted to get to land as soon as possible but I knew the real tormenting started there, while I wasn’t being tormented yet, I knew it was waiting for us to dock then the men would flock with happiness to watch the prizes walk by.

Jewelries, exotic foods, and even women and children would catch their eyes, and most of the items would be sold for currency, the Vikings would give away their less valuables like the jewelry and keep their women, or the opposite if they find their chosen women pitiful. The boat slammed heavily, causing one of the heavy Vikings to go tumbling down to the ground heavily, he released a heavy grown as a few laughed at his face plant. I placed a hand over my mouth as I knew to stay seated, I was scared that I would go off the side of the ship if the same happened to me, I nibbled on my lip as I tired to find Twelve, it was odd thinking of him as a number.

“Catch the food!” A heavy voice yelled, making everyone halt in shock as one of the middle baskets rolled to the side and food tumbled out.

Boule breads rolled from the basket with small fruits following behind it, I gasped as I quickly moved to catch Twelve’s teetering basket, Ammie awoke from the abrupt movement as I grabbed the side and managed to steady it as we hit yet another heavy wave. The boat jumped from the force as the Vikings and everyone else moved to grab onto something, I gasped as I stumbled and thankfully fell into Twelve as he quickly caught me then grabbed Ammie by her wrist. I clutched to him as the boat shook and almost tipped over, causing us to fall to the floor and Ammie and I to roll under one of the benches with Twelve still exposed. He grabbed onto the siding of the boat as it twisted around and we were now facing the way we came, flickers of water danced through the air and landed as Twelve tried to get to his feet while I looked at a critter that managed to find it’s way onto the ship.

I backed away in shock as it suctioned itself to the flooring board, my eyes widened as it sat their with a orange toned back facing up to the sky, it had five appendages branching from the middle of it’s body. I soon forgot the creature was there as I found Twelve to be missing, I gasped as I quickly pulled myself from under the bench to find him slowly pulling himself to his feet. I watched as he clutched his upper arm with blood spewing from it, I frowned as I quickly rushed to his side and examined the bleeding wound with his hand still blocking my view. It spewed heavily as he grunted and fell to the ground, I watched as he moved his hand and grabbed ahold of the buried blade handle before taking a heavy breath that prepared him for the pain he was going to feel after removing it.

Holding his breath, he started to pull the blade out and the sound of blood hitting the ground made my world tilt a little, I couldn’t regain my composure as I slumped against someone and everything went black.

I felt sick to the stomach as I opened my eyes and felt the soothing sensation of chillness on my forehead, I moaned as I blinked to clear my vision, it was almost midnight as I stared up at the many stars staring down at me. I reached up and grabbed my forehead as I slowly moved to sit up, but a hand on my shoulder stopped me as I looked at Twelve while he held a wet cloth in his hand, his arm was heavily bandaged and other than that, he was perfectly fine with a small bruise above his eyebrow. I reached up and touched the outer side of the bruise before looking to meet his beautiful blue eyes, I stared at him for a second before pulling away and looking for Ammie as she sat on a bench and stared up at the stars with determination.

She was so focused that she didn’t even notice I was awake and that I was watching her as she stared up at the sky, her young looks keep her youth strong, I smiled lightly as I saw movement out the corner of my eye to find Twelve sitting back on the bench and staring up at the sky as well. I finally looked up and stared at the sky as well, what shocked me that it was closer than usual with many stars facing down at us, no cloud was in sight as I stared at the beauty of the sky. We were no where near my old home now, farther than I had anticipated us to be but it was still so beautiful and I admired it’s beauty with no shame. I nibbled on my lip as I allowed my eyes to drop back to the handsome man before me as he stared at me, his eyes stared intensely with no shame as I sheepishly averted my eyes before smiling shyly. I looked up at him once more before looking at Ammie as she finally turned and noticed me wide awake, she released a loud happy sound and ran into my embrace as I smiled and hugged her tight to me.

“I was so scared.” Ammie whispered to me as she buried her face in my chest.

“I would never leave you.” I promised her, even not knowing what the future held.

I held her tightly to me before looking up at Twelve as he watched on, his intensive expression didn’t waver as he watched me hold Ammie tight to me, I wasn’t going to let anything happen to her. I cared for this child and I felt like it was my fault she was on the boat with me, I had grown fond of her and it was easy to tell she had grown fond of me as well, I wanted to keep her as my own but I knew it would take time and time wasn’t on my side right now. I looked at Ammie once more, she kept her face buried in my chest as I held her, I was scared to let her go because I didn’t want to leave her alone with anyone but myself. I closed my eyes and released a soft prayer for the night, I was in desperate need of rest and I knew Ammie probably was too.

**~Evy **

__

Chapter Four

I moved my damp hair out of my face and glanced around to see the condition of everyone else, they seemed to be struggling to hold themselves together also and I guess that was okay because I was too. The Vikings on the other hand, were used to this type of environment and sought communication with one another as if it was normal, but it wasn’t and I knew that for sure. Twelve was across the ship completely and was striking a conversation with another Viking as they both took their time to patiently wait on the sharpening station, and it seemed like the others were slowly putting on gear. The sky coiled heavily, dark clouds continued to roar and cry above our heads, I wasn’t sure if we were going to deal with another storm before we made it to the rightful destination, which seemed to be a raid from the way all the Vikings were rushing to sharpen anything metal, including helmets.

I sighed and glanced at Ammie as she slept with a bear hide thrown over her to keep the rain chill at bay, I bit my lip as we hit a hard wave and everyone tittered, the necklace on my neck tapped against my chest, reminding me it’s there. I looked down at it just as we hit yet another resistant wave, I glanced over at Twelve just as we made eye contact and a blush came over my face, how ironic that we were making sure one another was okay. I averted my eyes as I noticed the smug smirk came over his mostly hidden lips, I stared into the vast of water as it seemed to stretch past the horizon, if that was possible but many miles ago, we were looking at the same horizon at a different viewpoint. Where we’re we going? I kept asking myself as the longship rocked excessively now, I guess we were nearing some land, if I was to be asked, I wasn’t to sure because it was my first time being on a ship before, it was my first time even leaving my sacred home island.

“Alrighty boys! Gettin’ her close!” The captain yelled in excitement as I saw the land coming closer, I stared in awe at the sight of greenery as we slowly but surly approached.

Twelve moved close to me and I felt a wave of calmness come over me like the ocean when it hit the side of the longship and caused it to rock from the force, I nibbled on my lip and casually glanced at him as he took the time to strap on his leather bracers while sneakily glancing my way. What was all these signs meaning: the constant looks, the concern he felt whenever he thought I was in trouble, the way he would stare at me so openly as if I was the only thing that interested him on this planet… him giving me his mother’s necklace. I’d dare to say it was more than Twelve was giving off, but who’d dare say someone as innocent and pure as me could love someone so deadly and so hazardous. He wasn’t meant for me, at least that’s what my Mother would of told me if I was to tell her my dilemma at the moment, he wasn’t the one God put on Earth for me.

Here it was, my internal battle, and I don’t even know much about this man other than where the necklace on my neck originates, from his mother: no one loves anyone more than they love their mother. And Twelve gave me something so close to her, something she probably wore everyday, something that meant the world to him. I could accept him… eventually, but murder was a large no in my tribe and we’d rather ban someone than slice their throat open, or make them take a knife to the back. We weren’t terrible people like the people before me, they were terrible people that didn’t deserve a will to live, because they killed people. They hurt people, they burned innocent people’s homes, they split families without caring… and there were numerous times when a Viking couldn’t keep his composure and rape one of the tribe women.

I had the decency to look away, it was too disgusting to watch a man take it upon himself to deflower a woman without the care of her screams and grunts of pain, **too disgust ** . No one would move to stop the men that did such things, no one would tell them to stop doing such things, no one did anything to show them how doing these things were wrong in a sense. Where was the humanity in a Viking, did they even have a sense of humanity? There, they did… Twelve was their humanity, he was the human of the group that saw wrong and didn’t speak out on it, so who was worse? Me or him? Who was worse… me … **or him ** ?

” …e ?” I heard faintly, noticing how close we had grown to the land while I was dealing with my inner struggle. “Evy?”

“Hm?” I asked, looking around to see that no one else was paying us any attention, which was good. “Sorry, I was in my own world.”

I took a heavy breath and glanced around as we pulled up to the shore of the island that was rather large, but it was a beautiful island and I knew it was a island because I **assumed ** it was an island. As we grew closer and closer, I couldn’t help but notice the captain was steering us to a particular location that was growing larger by the second. At about eight miles out, I could easily make out tents, and as we drew near, I could hear shouts and the sweet scents of the market started to assault my nostrils. I moved to the siding of the longship and stared in awe at the sight, I had never seen such a thriving place at once, it was filled with bodies that moved within one another like a mixture of five different vegetables in a roast pot. I stared in awe as we docked and I looked toward Twelve in sadness while he rounded up some of his goodies, he was going to go make some more profit and trades, I glanced at him curiously. I wonder…

“Can I come?” I blurted in excitement. “Ammie and I, can we come with you… please?” I wanted to explore this beautiful, busy place.

“It’s too dangerous.” Twelve replied, immediately making my heart sink as the hope I had dissipated. “I can’t risk you getting hurt.”

“I won’t, what if I stay by your side, the both of us.” I begged. “Please.”

I tried my hardest to look as innocent as possible, I wanted him to say yes and if he did, that would make me a very happy person and honestly, be in debt to him. I bit my lip and looked at the undocking Vikings, even watching as some of the Vikings took their treasured women with them. Twelve sighed as I watched the gears turn in his head, he was actually considering it! My heart swelled with hope once more, I reached forward and grabbed his hand in the hope that he’d say yes to me. I wanted to explore this place, find out what these exotic scents and people were.

“How do I know you won’t run?” He asked, glancing at me nervously before looking at the unloading Vikings.

“I told you I’ll stay close to you, I just want to look around.” I explained. “I’ve never seen a place like this before.”

Twelve sighed and I already knew I had won him over, I smiled lightly as he slowly nodded with hesitation as I smiled and jumped up to hug my body to his, it was fantastic feeling him close to me but I couldn’t push my limit. I glanced at Twelve’s face as he tired hard to hide the hint of a smile on his face by turning his back to me and sheathing his weapons away. I moved to Ammie and gently woke her by patting her back while she slept, she stirred immediately and lifted her head while rubbing her eyes so child-like. I smiled lightly at her as she slowly pulled herself up and blinked questionably at her surroundings, her eyes landed on me and I could see relaxation fall on her expression as she tiredly smiled at me and wrapped her arms around my swollen waist. I ran my fingers through her hair with a tiny smile.

“We’re going somewhere, get up, sweetheart.” I said, gently rubbing crud from her eye as she glanced at Twelve unsurely. “It’s okay, we have permission.” I whispered loud enough for only the three of us to hear.

“Where are we going?” She asked so innocently, excitement in her voice as she smiled at me.

“Look.” I pointed in the direction of the market that we docked upon for trading and the newcomers like me, exploration. “It’s a market.”

“Marrrr…ket?” Ammie sounded, she’s a smart child, and I nodded that she had said it correct.

I glanced back at Twelve as he waited patiently, watching us interact with one another and it made me smile that he was so patient and kind toward us strangers, and therefore, I had to be patient and kind to him… it was only right. Ammie hoped to her feet in shock as she finally looked and stared in awe at it’s beauty, I laughed at her expression of glee while turning to Twelve and waiting on him, Ammie grabbed my hand as I held her close to my side and followed Twelve’s lead to wherever he was going. He hoped out the longship and I passed him Ammie, who giggled at the fact that she was high in the sky when he had grabbed her and threw her up playfully. I carefully grabbed the ends of my dress and lifted them up to swing my legs over the siding of the ship, I glanced up in time to catch Twelve staring with eyes of lust and secrecy that made me curious to know what had caught his attention about me. Or … was all of this just to gain him on my good side, was all of this for nothing so that when we get where we’re suppose to be designated, he’d have the upper hand over me, will he take advantage of my trust?

I pushed the thoughts aside and jumped, Twelve caught me with his large, stern hands holding me tight to him so protectively and strong, and I loved the feeling that I was wanted. Twelve slowly lowered me to my feet as I stared into his deep blue eyes, many emotions flew at unreadable rates as I stared at him. Suddenly remembering where we were, I averted my eyes sheepishly and turned toward the market while Twelve’s hands lingered in place of my hips. I wanted to moan at the feeling of his strong hands holding me, it was so amazing to feel him touching my hips and so much as caressing them as he watched me move toward the market in awe. His hand immediately found mine and I didn’t hesitate to hold his hand while looking for Ammie, I grabbed her tiny hand and started toward the market in eagerness.

I happily marched as Twelve released my hand and took a few steps back and I glanced behind me to make sure he wasn’t leaving me. I unintentionally started to mingle with the crowd as people went around hollering random words that weren’t random at all but to me they just seemed out of place because I wasn’t used to it. **“Bread!”, “Oranges!”, “Pineapples!”, “Wool!”, “Yarn!” ** and from there on, the orders yelled and the scents mended together into bliss for me. Then bam… I smelled it… I smelled chocolate ! I hastening my search as I looked from tent to tent to find the source, casually glancing behind to me to make sure Twelve was still present, and soon I found the source of the chocolatey scent as I stood before the chocolate bread pastries that had my name written on each one. It was a twist on regular bread rolls with chocolate filing added to the center, and I wanted each and everyone of the twelve laying out before me, displayed so perfectly.

“M-May I?” I asked no one, while knowing someone inside the tent was waiting.

“It’ll be one cent.” I felt sadness swell in me, I had no money… I can’t get one.

“Here.” I looked behind me as Twelve came to the rescue and handed the man three pieces of change. “That’s for the basket.”

He’s generous, that’s for sure.

**~Evy **

Chapter Five

I accepted my basket of chocolate bread with a shocking sound of glee that escaped me so suddenly, it took me by surprise, I glanced at Twelve to see if he had caught my weird noise and his expression told me he had. I nibbled on my lip and immediately decided that nibbling on the bread was a better choice, I rested the band of the basket along my wrist and grabbed one of the twelve present. With no hesitation, I brought the chocolate bread to my mouth and took a generous bite so that my tongue would be assaulted by the wonderful decadent tastes of chocolate and freshly-baked bread that was still so nice and warm, causing the chocolate to have a slightly liquid consistency.

I moaned as the sweet milk chocolate rested along my tastebuds in a heavy layer, I didn’t hesitate to take yet another big bite of my chocolate bread before offering one to Ammie, who happily took one. I paused as I debated handing one to Twelve, what would he think of it? I decided to test it and offered the basket to him in total, he reahced forward and grabbed one to take a bite out of it. I smiled lightly as he gestured for me to follow him, I did as he told while holding Ammie’s unoccupied hand as she openly devoured her early dessert.

“We’re at Ryot’s Islet, along the coast of Qrimt.” I frowned at those names, they weren’t familiar to me even the slightest. “In comparison, the rest of our journey will be on foot.”

I slowly nodded, looking at Twelve in confusion as I had expected us to be leaving once more, but I guess we won’t be after all. I nervously glanced around as sellers stared at us closely, they knew that Twelve was a Viking by his appearance, and I wonder if they knew I had been kidnapped from my beautiful home that was probably no longer aflame now. The thought of home made me feel sadness inside, I no longer had a home because it was the Vikings that ripped it away from me and burned it down to the ground. I wonder about the people that escaped into the forest, did they make it somewhere safe?

I sighed miserably, all this thinking was causing me to reminisce about the old times of my life, when things weren’t this complicated and I wasn’t learning so many new things at once. Having noticed the sudden change in my expression, Twelve looked at me questionably before pausing to stare me in the eye. I quickly shielded my eyes in the hopes of not giving myself away as he looked me up and down before slowly nodding with understanding, he continued onward to a different booth and stopped to stare at every piece of jewelry closely. I watched as he inspected some sort of tooth necklace up close.

“Tis a shark tooth, sir.” The man behind the booth spoke, moving closer to analyze the shark necklace with Twelve as well.

“How much?” Twelve asked, eyeing the man closely in an almost more than threatening way.

“Fifteen cent sir, that’ll feed mi familia .” The man replied, reaching up and scratching at his bearded chin in an unfortunate way.

I stayed near Twelve’s side as he had requested out of respect, of course I couldn’t blend into this crowd becuase of my hair but I could try to escape, and possibly get away but where was there to go? I frowned as I thought about it, I was so deep in thought that I hadn’t known Twelve was asking me a question until it was too late and he was only a few inches away from me while trying to tie the shark tooth around my neck. I gasped as I was suddenly brought back to the present by his hand gently caressing my collarbone, I looked down at the shark necklace that added to his mother’s necklace, why was he trying to bedazzle me now?

I looked at him in confusion, as I thought he was getting it for himself, before looking back down at the shark necklace and releasing Ammie’s hand for a second to look at the shark necklace up close. I dropped it back against my chest and looked at Twelve to see who was no longer in front of me but squatting in front of Ammie to tie the same shark tooth necklace around her neck as well. I looked at Ammie with a smile as she wiped her chocolate-covered hand on her dress to wipe away excess then grabbed the shark tooth, she poked herself with it to test its sharpness before releasing a soft “wooooow” while in awe.

“Twelve…” I trailed, trying to find what to say right now, I had to be grateful but I also needed to show him that he was buying this unneccessary things for me, while it was out of kindness, it still bothered me becuase I didn’t need them.

“I got matching ones for the both of you, that way, if you were apart… you’re still together.” Twelve explained, making me slowly nod at his explanation.

I glanced at Ammie again as she continued to stare at her necklace in complete awe, of course it was the first time we saw such things but I wasn’t as amazed as she was, I wanted to know what was the next move when we arrived at our destination, well… at Twelve’s destination. I reached up and aggressively rubbed at my eye as the wind blew heavily, making small particles fly up while Twelve reached forward and pushed a strand of hair out of my face. I stared at him while he gently cupped the side of my face and rubbed his thumb along my jawline, making me shiver a little. My mouth parted in anticipation as he slowly leaned down and I immediately hesitated as his lips lingered only inches away from mine, should I do it? Should I go there with him?

I bit my bottom lip wantonly, I wanted to kiss him and taste the flavor of his lips but it was too risky. What if my purpose was with someone else? What if I give my soul to this man and he ships me offward? My lips quivered desperately as I leaned forward as well, the urge was so strong and pleasant. I tilted my head the opposite way of his as he placed his hand on my hip and pulled me taut against him, I could feel his large body against my lanky one as his fingers gently carassed through my flowing hair in a more than appealing way. His fingers moved upward to my scalp, with he allowed his fingernails to scratch gently, and it brought bliss to me as everyone around us disappeared and it was only him and I. I reached my hand up and placed it over his, leaning closer just as our lips brushed into a very tinder kiss.

“Evy!” A scream ripped through the air, knocking me out of the phase I was in before I could enjoy the simple kiss.

The screaming voice registered seconds later before I immediately whirled around in the hopes of figuring out what was happening, I quickly reached forward in the attempt to grab onto Ammie’s hand once more as she was grabbed by someone almost the size of Twelve, if not larger.

_“NO!” _

I screamed and attempted to yank for her once more until I was grabbed as well, a person circled their arms around my chest to hold me tight against them while I fought with all the strength I had. I felt my tears stream down my face as I continued to wrestle with the person holding me, I twisted around in their arms and looked at Twelve in disbelief as he held me and gestured for the barbaric man to leave. I punched at his chest as he continued to hold me tightly, tears poured heavily as the betrayal settled in and I felt weak in the knees. Twelve continued to hold me tight as my soul crumbled within me and it showed, I was barely able to stand as I turned my head and watched as Ammie was pulled while kicking and screaming escape.

“How could you!?” I asked amongst my tears, sobbing loudly while still pushing against his chest. “How could you do this to us!?” I cried.

Twelve didn’t say anything as he started to pull me in the opposite direction of Ammie, I turned in the hopes of getting one last look at her as I spotted her kicking with all her might and still screaming for help, still calling my name in the hopes of saving her. I sobbed, frantically looking around in the hopes of pinpoint her location incase I was able to escape Twelve’s death grip on me but I knew it was a futile fight because I wouldn’t be able to save her, or myself.

**“EVY!” **

I stumbled over my feet as Twelve continued to pull me along with him, walking along a forest path while the sand slowly turned into grass and brush, I stumbled and yanked myself away from Twelve just to find my body planting against the forest floor because he let me go this time. I crawled to my hands and knees as tears continued to streak heavily down my face, my heart was ripping apart inside at the fact that he had did this to me, Twelve grabbed my wrist and pulled me to my feet once more to drag me along with others that were a little ahead of us. I sniffled and reached up with my opposite hand to find my basket of chocolate breads gone as well, I must of lost them in the fits of trying to get to Ammie, who was gone forever! I would never see her again! The thought only brought more tears to my eyes as I stumbled again and hit the floor because Twelve released me with a heavy, angry growl. I looked up at him with pleading, pained eyes because I wanted him to understand how I felt. The fact that he did this to me and I trusted him, _we _ trusted him.

“I trusted you.” I whimpered within my tears, getting to my hands and knees again and crawling toward a nearby thick tree with brush growing up it. “We trusted you.” I sobbed.

I used the tree as leverage to pull myself up before clinging to it desperately, I felt the rough bark digging into my skin but didn’t care as long as Twelve stayed away from me, maybe he’ll sale me next. I tightened my hold on the tree as I heard his heavy footsteps moving close to me, seconds later, his hand reached between the tree and my bicep to pull me away from the comfort I found within the tree itself. I sobbed and pulled my bicep away from him, which he only grabbed my wrist and yanked me chest to chest with him… or stomach to chest. I looked up at him in disbelief that he had actually done something like this to me, just as I started to really like him and put my faith in him, he betrayed me.

He stared at me, looking deep into my core though my big brown eyes as I stared back at him, slowly growing confused to what he was actually doing to me. Why was he staring at me so long? What was he truly looking at? I cut my eyes away at the sight of something in my peripheral vision, I turned and stared onward in the hopes of seeing what it was to find a man standing and patiently waiting on us. I looked back at Twelve before lowering my head in defeat and allowing him to grab my bicep once more and pull me along. However, I didn’t cease my sobbing as I allowed him to drag me alone, the fact that he did was still heavily settling in my heart and only making more tears streak down my face. How can I forgive him? Will I even want to forgive by the end of this trip?

Wait… where are they taking her anyway?

**~Evy **

**Author’s Note: **

I have seen that my story has raised many questions but one in particular is: _Is Evy a boy or a girl? _ Evy is, indeed, a male with the mutation of breast and wide hips, and he wears dresses and keep his hair long for the simple fact that he would not be accepted at his home village otherwise. The village Evy used to stay in was a pure woman’s village that rarely had male settlers other than sailors that would have sex with the women and occasionally impregnate them before departing on their journey. More information about Evy’s background will be placed into the story when deemed appropriate, I hope and understand that you guys will find this little information helpful to understanding the plot of this story(which will possibly be the next chapter).

Always feel free to leave any questions you have below in the comments, in my messages, or on my profile page.

Chapter Six

Twelve held my bicep tightly, guiding me toward the man that had watched our little fallout, I glanced at Twelve as he bowed his head slightly while passing the large man that I remembered to be the leader of the Viking group that had kidnapped me from my home only amongst a week ago. I stumbled a little over a small bush and winced as a thorn on it nicked my toe, I looked down and saw the small scratch, it burned a little but I ignored it as I continued to let Twelve lead me to the large group that were steps ahead of us by my bicep. His hand slowly loosened and slid down my arm to him grabbing my wrist and pulling me toward his side protectively. I felt a heavy presence and glanced behind us to see the leader, I had no idea what his name was and I was too upset to want to look at Twelve, so I had no reason to ask. The man was the tallest of them all, at least six-nine with a very dominant built that it was almost unreal, his legs were chunky and strong with his arms the same way, his shoulders were long and built as well.

The man had a mop of dark brown hair on his head, his eyes were a soft friendly green with the sunlight lightly sparkling into them ever so then, his lips were thin and his skin a soft peachy porcelain color. His bulky chest and twelve-pack torso was wide but narrowed as you came to his hips, he was built so well and strong that it made me fearful to make him angry. He, like the rest of the Vikings, held a few battle scars that stood out respectfully. Half of his face was contoured with scaring from the flesh being burned, a large scar went from the elbow to the middle finger of his left arm, and he seemed to walk with a slight limp as he used his broadsword to stable himself. I looked back up to his eyes to see him staring at me, I quickly turned to face forward before looking at Twelve once more, his face was still blank and it made me angry a little. I bowed my head and stared at the passing ground with each step as the ones ahead of us playfully pushed and laughed with one another like a large happy family. I looked around the forest, it was slightly darker than I had expected and the deeper we got, the more thicker the vegetation grew and the more leaves the trees had.

I sniffed and reached up to wipe any drying tears that were irritating to my skin, I glanced over at Twelve once more as he stared ahead with a stone face, his expressions unexpressed. He knew what he did, so why does he act like everything’s okay? Do he think I forgive him? Not looking along the path I was being led, I stumbled and couldn’t catch myself, and Twelve didn’t bother to try as he allowed me to hit the ground hard with a soft thud and a grunt slipped out of me. I moaned in pain as a searing heat ran along the side of my foot, I frowned as I sat up and rolled over so I could examine my foot, blood poured heavily as I looked at what I tripped over. Someone had dropped their dagger and I had sliced the side of my foot on it, the pain was unbelievable as I frowned and hissed in disbelief, I had hurt myself so easily. Twelve knelt down beside me as I looked at him wearily, not because I was upset with him but because the wound was bleeding profusely. Blood poured from my foot and coated my hand before dripping to the forest floor and soaking into the ground, I tried to slow the bleeding by apply pressure but it seemed useless.

“Halt.” The large leading Viking announced behind Twelve and I.

I looked up as everyone turned to see what was happening, I immediately felt embarrassed and shy as Twelve pulled me close to him, the crowd of Vikings started to make their way back as I buried my face in Twelve’s chest shyly. A couple of other people knelt down beside me and one of them reached forward to grab the ankle of my bleeding foot but I immediately recoiled away from them. Twelve gently grabbed my ankle and wrapped his arm around me in an encouraging way, he held my ankle in place as one of the Viking’s started to examine in before looking at the blade that had been dropped. The Viking analyzing my foot was built like the rest of the more regular Vikings, his eyes were a cold brown and his face was deadpan as he looked at my foot from different angles. He sighed heavily in an almost saddening way, making me nervously look at him through the intense pain raging up my leg. The Viking moved my ankle only the slightest and I couldn’t stop the yelp that slipped from within, I cried as tears welled and poured down my cheeks hotly.

“That hurts.” I whimpered, reaching up and wiping a tear.

“Feushus.” The Viking spoke, looking up toward the crowd as someone stepped up. ” It’s bad .” He translated in a different language.

Feushus was a rather lanky woman, she moved forward while dressed in a incredibly threadbare dress that displayed her darkened nipples and pubic hairs underneath, the men were probably drooling all over her. Her hair was jet black, very thick and nappy as it laid all the way to her back, her eyes were a golden hazel as she inched closer and knelt beside the Viking, who had carefully moved aside to allow her access to my bleeding foot. Feushus grabbed my foot in her delicate, dainty hand and leaned very close in order to see how deep the wound really was, I knew it would take much time to heal, as well as much care. With Feushus closer, I could tell she had to had been taken in a different raiding of the Vikings, I had never seen a woman like her with sun-kissed skin so tan, her lips were slightly plump with the bottom one smaller. Her nose’s bridge was very long and the tip of it was pointed downward, I stared at her in confusion as she leaned back and looked to the Viking.

” I have ointments and herbs in my bag .” She whispered in her native tongue, I looked at Twelve unsurely, I didn’t know this woman and she was staring to make me feel uncertain about this “help” I was getting.

The Viking, who understood what she was saying, got to his feet and gestured for another Viking to come forward, they were doing this all because of me… or maybe because of Twelve and because I belonged to Twelve. I looked at the woman, Feushus looked to Twelve and gestured her head to the left, indicating she wanted him to do something but neither of us understood. I looked at Twelve as he looked at me in confusion then back to the foreign woman, I lowered my head in to Twelve’s chest and listened to his heartbeat as my head soared. I blinked a few times before trying to lift my head, it had only moved so much before it thumped back into Twelve’s chest as my body grew unbelievably weak so quickly.

“T-Tw…” I trailed as everything went black.

_I gasped as I smashed into the boat’s floor heavily, my gasp was immediately followed with a grunt as I slammed into the side of the boat as the skies roared unhappily above, I wept as I got to my knees and screamed to the sky while asking for forgiveness. I looked up as the sky released heavy droplets, they pattered around me with loud booming sounds while the sky roared back at me, the clouds swirled and twisted amongst one another in a threatening way. My shoulder was grabbed and I turned my head to see Twelve holding his hand out to me, I quickly grabbed onto him and he pulled me into his side as a heavy wave engulfed the boat. _

_I closed my eyes as the dark, cold water engulfed us as well, I opened them to see Twelve yelling at me and pointing in my direction as we were distances apart, bubbled escaped his mouth as I turned around to see what looked like the open jaws of something. The mouth of the creature coming at me was covered in the jagged teeth like the one on my necklace, a shark, I lifted my hands as it’s large jaws easily swallowed me whole. I screamed as I lurched up and was being carefully grabbed by Twelve, who gently laid me back down as I stared at him with happiness that he was here with me. I reached up and gently touched his cheek as he leaned into my hand before kissing my fingertips softly, I moaned at the sensation as he climbed on top of me. _

_He softly pecked my nose, making me shiver in delight as he started to suck on my neck, licking and nibbling on the exposed skin so sensually. I arched my back and closed my eyes in pleasure as he ran his hands over my naked body, happily cupping my breast as he laid naked above me, his hands happily explored me as mine explored his amazing body as well. I gasped as a sharp pain went through my lower back suddenly, making me open my eyes as I now arched my back in discomfort, the pain was surreal as Twelve hovered over me, his beautiful eyes looking into mine. I reached up and grabbed his cheeks to pull him close to me, bolts of lightening shot through me as Twelve kissed me so wantonly and passionately. _

_” _ _Twelve…” I moaned in desire, itching for him to kiss all up and down my body. _

_I hissed in pleasure as I felt so full inside, I wasn’t sure why I felt full but I did and I was enjoying the feeling. I arched my back as my legs rested on Twelve’s broad shoulders, the bed shook beneath us as Twelve grunted and rubbed his body against mine, I reached up and started to claw at his back as the pleasure continued to grow, making me squeal. I screamed in bliss as a very wet texture filled me up, it stuck to my insides as I fell back onto the bed and shivered in delight but it was short lived as the full feeling disappeared and I felt incomplete. I whimpered and reached out for Twelve as I tried to open my eyes but couldn’t. I could hear something heavily crash and the sound of heavy pattering as the sound of the ocean filled the air again- _

I sighed as I laid with my eyes still closed, I had no idea how long it had been since I had passed out but I felt weighed down and scared to move incase I would only injure myself more, I didn’t want to get sick or feel anymore pain. I laid completely still, refusing to even open my eyes in the fear that it could hurt me too. I heard what sound like the crackling of fire and some grunts mingling with it, the smell of sweat and blood was thick in the air as I encouraged myself enough to open my eyes and see what was happening. Just as I was going to, a loud painful yelp filled the air and I heard a lot of laughter, I opened my eyes and looked at a group of Viking men that were practice-fighting with one another. Most of the Vikings were sitting around the fire and seemed like they were sharing stories with one another, others were laughing and picking with the women that were obtained from the raids that the Viking men had done. One of the women were crying as her gown was lifted and the men laughed as she struggled and squirmed to get away from him while calling him a “pig”.

“You disgusting pig, get offa me!” She said in a heavy accent, tears streaming down her face.

“This “disgusting pig” is going to give you a child though.” The man joked back, trying to kiss on her neck as she screamed and fought harder, now pleading to the sky for help.

I watched on from the distance while wishing I could help, I was completely silent while listening to the Vikings heavy feet as they thumped along the ground, they were shooting and yelling and causing way to much ruckus but then again, I’m only guessing that’s what Vikings do. I nibbled on my lip as I curled up tighter amongst myself at the sight of a Viking approaching me, I didn’t know who he was but I knew he wasn’t Twelve, he was more bulkier and held a sharp dagger in his hand. I stared at him fearfully, my large brown eyes staring at the blade as it wavered in his hand, the Viking knelt down and grabbed my chin roughly.

I frowned and immediately pulled my chin out of his reach before lifting my hand and wiping the invisible dirt off of it, he had touched me without permission and I had no clue what his hands could of been doing before. The unknown Viking chuckled before reaching up and scratching his beard thoughtfully, he had to stand at least six feet with broad shoulders, his eyes were a soft green-ish hue that sparkled in interest as he stared at me, what could he want?

“Taken, Numic.” Twelve spoke, standing not to far away, thankfully.

“By who?” Numic asked, chuckling. “You?” He joked.

“Yea, by me.” Twelve retorted, moving closer in a defensive stance.

I immediately got uncomfortable of the situation, I slowly and sneakily pulled myself to a sitting position and tried to get out of the two boundaries of the angry men as Numic turned to Twelve with a very loud laugh that mocked Twelve in a way. I blinked and continued to watch on as Numic nodded and swapped the dagger between his hands in an almost threatening way, he wanted to fight. I flinched then quickly turned my head to see the overly towering Viking that watched on with a heavy glare. He watched the two men with a look that told all, he was unhappy with the way the two were acting to one another but it was obvious that he wasn’t going to step in and break them apart, nor stop the altercation from happening. I turned back around to face Twelve and Numic, who took a defensive stance as Twelve pulled out his own dagger, he swirled the dagger so the blade was facing behind him while Numic kept his blade facing Twelve.

Twelve mimicked Numic’s stance and I internally prepared myself for some heavy bloodshed as Twelve ducked Numic’s first swing and stepped aside, delivering a kick to the back of Numic’s left knee. Numic buckled but stayed upright to release a chuckle while congratulating Twelve on deflecting his first, sudden blow then delivering another swing that Twelve barely missed. Twelve leaned back and ducked the next swing as well, Twelve then made the next move by tackling Numic, the two went rolling on the ground and struggling over who would land a severe blow. I turned as my heart melted at the thought of being around an unknown man, what if this Numic guy did kill Twelve? Would I be in Numic’s possession then? Would I have to serve Numic? I pulled my hands to my chest in dismay as tears swelled in my eyes again, I hated violence and to see these two going head to head for what… me? I wasn’t worthy of such actions and I knew it. I was a nobody… who would do such a thing for a nobody? I heard a loud grunt and whirled around to see who had won, Numic backed away while cupping his face with a bloody hand while Twelve got back to his feet and sneered at Numic threateningly.

“Don’t look at him, and don’t ever touch him again.” Twelve threatened, balling his unoccupied fist before sheathing his dagger and walking toward me as I watched him.

I looked up at Twelve unsurely, yes he had saved me but was he forgiven? No, he wasn’t. I turned away as I heard Twelve’s feet stop not to far away in hesitation, at least he wasn’t determined to upset me anymore. I didn’t look at everyone as they watched Numic get to his feet and slouch away angrily, I laid back down with my eyes closed, I didn’t want to be alone but I didn’t want to be near Twelve just yet either. I reached up and unclasped the necklace Twelve gave me before looking at it at it’s entirety. It was truly beautiful, it was his mother’s, he said.

I graced my fingers along the soft jewels of the necklace as they sparkled in the peeking lights of the sun that managed to shine through the heavy vegetation of the forest we had entered. The resting area was only steps away from the forest trail we were taking, I seemed to be laying on some type of cot as the night prolonged onward. I looked at Twelve as he bowed his head before disappearing back into the forest sides, I turned my head in the opposite direction as I felt something suddenly very wet and sticky along the insides of my thighs. I reached and touched to see what it was, when I moved my hand back into my vision, I stared at the mixture of red and white stuff, oh god… was part of that not a dream?

**~Evy **

Wait a minute… could it had been someone else who took Evy?…

Chapter Seven

“You two are a disgrace!” I flinched as I heard skin slap skin once more, I curled myself tighter as I thought of who was actually receiving the punishment at the moment.

I looked at the rippling water as it poured along my toes, caressing them in wetness as I reached down and grabbed a leaf that had stuck to my big toe, I glanced back at the Viking leader’s tent where all the altercation going on. Both Twelve and Numic was summoned to it just a few minutes ago and the yelling had never stopped since, I looked back to the ripples of water so often caressing my feet from the soft waterfall that fell miraculously, this was indeed a beautiful place to stop and sleep.

I looked at the gauze wrapped along my foot and pursed my lips, I indeed was always the clusmy on in the village and this was what happened whenever I became careless of situations, whenever I lost control. The need to cry in belittlement resurfaced, why was I taken? Why had this been my destiny? Had this switched my destiny? I reached up and aggressively wiped my cheek as the anger settled in next, I wanted to leave, I wanted out so bad. Twelve had took me from my home, he took me from… oh god, it feels like it’s been so many days without her. Little Ammie was probably being taken far away and there was no idea what they were doing to the poor girl at the moment, they could be selling her, beating her… or worse .

I glanced back at the tent and it was as if all my anger disappeared as Twelve walked out first, he flung the tent flap aggressively as Numic followed him out with a timid smirk. I slowly pulled myself to my feet as Numic attempted to “playfully” push Twelve, who turned and around and hissed something at him, I’m not sure what it was exactly. I gulped nervously as I watched Twelve take a threatening step toward Numic against with his lips still moving, Numic appeared to slightly cower before returning some vicious words himself in a hushed voice. In response, Twelve only shook his head and turned toward my direction, he started walking toward me as I lowered my head in sadness.

There was no shame in the need of needing Twelve, no, there was shame in the want of needing Twelve. I had grown fond of the gentle giant, very fond though he had put me through enough to cause me to want to yank all my lucious hair out of my head. As Twelve grew closer, he appeared to hesitate and stop at least ten feet away from me, allowing me to look at the brusies and scratches he now bore. His entire left cheek was bruised from various slapping and his left eye had a busted blood vessel, other than that, he was perfectly fine.

“How’s your foot?” Twelve asked, nervously scratching the back of his neck.

“Fine.” I whispered. “How’s your face?”

“Fine.” He said with a slight shudder, as if my voice had given him very dirty thoughts. “Did you rest well.”

“Yes.” I replied. “Did you rest well?”

“I haven’t at all.” Twelve replied, reminding me that he was one of the Vikings that was a watchmen, he wasn’t allowed to have much sleep.

Watchmen stayed up and ready to protect everyone at all cost, even if it was with their own life, and as risky as it seemed, I had endured excitement over the fact that Twelve as good in toe-to-toe combat and wide-field battle. While everyone slept, you had the sense of peace because of one of the best was looking over you and willing to protect you with their life, what an amazing peace to have for sure.

“When am I allowed to go home?” I asked abruptly, the small period of silence was threatening.

Somehow, I felt like I already knew the answer and was preparing myself for the hurt to sweep into my soul because I knew I was never going back. I guess you could say it was clarification I was asking for, making sure that there would never be that chance again. My old life was gone completely, I wasn’t able to pick up any pieces when it shattered either, no… the village people would do that. The ones left would band together and rebuild the village for what it was, and hopefully put barriers around to protect everyone inside the village, even if… even if they couldn’t had protect me.

Twelve took a deep breath, making me nervously cut my eyes to the ground as he looked up at me and shook his head. “Never.”

I heard that word but it was like my brain couldn’t retain it, I had to find my way back home or else I was forever a sinner, I had to get back home to my true family… to my true land, and who was I if I didn’t? I wasn’t Evy. I felt a deep, painful cramp fold within my abdomen and groaned as my legs went weak for a split second. I felt the soft dirt digging into my knees as I squeezed my eyes shut in pain, this land wasn’t for me because all it did was cause me agony and depression. I needed to go home!

“Evy, what’s wrong?” Twelve asked, concern written on his face as I grabbed onto him and slowly pulled myself up.

It was agonizing pain, making me hiss as saliva dripped from my mouth and it left me disgusted and embarrassed that this was happening, I looked up at Twelve pleadingly as he grabbed my hips and eyed me very slowly. I did the same, looking down at my body and trying to depict what was causing me such pain at the moment, I hissed and almost dove over in pain as another cramp hit me.

“W-What’s wrong with m-me?” I asked him, hoping he knew what was happening.

“You went by the pond, didn’t you?” Twelve asked, which I nodded to. “Did you put your foot in?” I nodded once more. “The cut one?” And for the third time, I nodded with a pained hiss.

Twelve shook his head and sighed, he reached up and wiped my sweat covered forehead, allowing some strands of hair to unstick as I grabbed onto his hand and squeezed it pleadingly while giving him pleading eyes as well. It was obvious Twelve knew something was going on, I could tell from all the questions he was asking.

“That pond has bad algae,” He paused and braced one arm against my back and used his other hand to swoop me up by the knees,” it’ll stop but it’s safe to run a little water over it weaken it.”

Twelve walked me toward the group of Vikings that appeared to be sharing stories, which I had picked up as we got closer.

”… and I yelled, “Behold! The head!” and held the head of the Gyron up like this,” The Viking paused and pretended to be holding something in the sky,” everyone was cheering, the king was angry at me-”

“Why?” Someone asked eagerly, and I glanced to them to see it was yet of a seedling child.

The child was no older than five years old and she was constantly cocking her head back and forth throughout the Viking’s story, as that’s what most children did. Where had she come from? I figured she came with a Viking lady that prepared the travels and stayed in the boats during the raids, I slowly lowered my head as I thought of the small companion I had during the ocean travel. I wonder if she’s okay. I looked at Twelve as he glanced up at me then at the small child he had caught me staring at, I looked away and off toward the vegetation lurking nearby with small dark blueberries and accessible fire-burning sticks. I kept my eyes away from Twelve, I did blame him for taking Ammie from me but I found it in myself for not wanting him to know that I wasn’t happy with him.

“Because I had killed his best creature ever, a Gyron is very mystical and rare to find because they used to be hunted-”

“Why?” The child asked eagerly again, making me slightly smile as I glanced at her while she cocked her head once more and her long jet-black hair slid to the other side.

“Because their blood is toxic and they’re scales are worth fortunes-”

“Why?” She asked again, making me softly chuckle with a couple of others as she cocked her head yet the opposite way.

“Because they can be used to make strong armor-” The Vikings replied, glancing around for help as he received laughter in return.

“Why?” The child asked for the third time, sitting up from her stomach position and crossing her legs while looking up at the Viking eagerly.

“Because…” He said, blinking owlishly before glancing around for help as everyone only shook their heads, not knowing the knowledge.

“Because the structure in their scales are stronger than the strongest metal known to man right now, in the world, which is tungsten.” Twelve spoke up, he pulled himself to his feet and drew his weapon as I even stared at him in awe. “This blade his made out of pure tungsten, the handle copper, you know how much this sword cost?” He asked the little girl, even though he received a shake of the head from everyone.

” Fifteen thousand gold .” It was as if everyone was in shock of the big price, who would buy a sword that costly… Twelve, Twelve would. “Expensive for a commoner? Yes. For a Viking? Not ever .”

“I wanna be a Viking!” The girl yelped excitedly, getting to her feet and jumping up and down.

I smiled lightly, it was cute but seeing that she seemed rather serious, was unpredictably fearful because girls didn’t become Vikings, they became the slaves of Vikings. I turned and looked at my foot again, it was swollen and it suddenly seemed that Twelve remembered what we were doing, I smiled as he got back to his knee and glanced up at me. I sheepishly looked away while trying to fight the smile on my face, but it was useless because I couldn’t do that. Twelve grabbed his waterskin off his hip and uncapped it, he gently grabbed my wounded foot by the ankle and sat it on his beefy thigh. I curled my toes slightly but not pass the point that it hurt to do so, Twelve gently caressed my calf as he lightly poured the water in a thin flow along the wound of my left foot.

I seized completely and cried out in pain as the water poured over the wound, intensifying the pain that was once actually going way. Twelve grabbed tighter on my foot and continued to pour his water on my wound, hot wetness caked my face as I cried in agony, moaning in pain as he finally stopped and released my ankle. I reached up and wiped my face mostly clear, I looked down at my foot as the pain subdued to most of nothing but a soft throb that allowed me to know that it was there, I glanced up at Twelve with a sniff as he looked at me with concern. I looked down at my soaked cloth that had covered my wound the entire time, I was confused to the fact that he hadn’t removed the cloth so that the water would actually make immediate contact with my wound.

“T-Twelve?” I asked softly, feeling complete warmth as he pulled me into his arms.

“Yes, love?” He wished in a barely audible voice, he gently pecked my forehead.

“I’m tired.” I whispered back.

“Then go to sleep, love.” He whispered back, making me shift nervously.

“I-I don’t wanna.” I whispered in reply, looking up at him pleadingly.

“Why?’ He asked, looking at me in concern. “What happened?”

“I…” Should I say anything about my dream or reality-dream… or whatever that was the yesterday? “I…”

“Tell me, beautiful.” He whispered, pulling me even tighter against him.

“Yesterday, when I was sleeping… I had a dream that… that we…” I pursed my lips in embarrassment as a blush settled in on my previously warms cheeks.

“Made love?” Twelve finished, which I nodded to.

“Y-Yes but… I… I think…” I was hoping he could finish this one as well.

“That it was real?” Twelve asked, which I nodded to once more. “Are you sure?” Twelve asked.

I nodded, glancing around before making sure no one was listening to our conversation. “I had some blood and white fluid on my…”

Twelve sighed, gently pecking my forehead as I looked up at him in confusion, why wasn’t he upset right now?

“I apologize… I thought I cleaned you well.” He whispered embarrassingly, making me stare at him in complete awe… he made love to me while I was sleep?

“I… I was asleep.” I whispered, pulling away from him but he refused and pulled me close once more.

” No , you were drugged and I couldn’t resist… you were rubbing on my chest and groin, tell me you loved me and wanted me completely, and I apologize because I should of been a better man and waited.” Twelve explained, dropping his head in an almost desperate way.

I felt heat incase my chest and cheeks once more, I reached up and touched my hot cheeks before looking at Twelve as he glanced at me and watched me with nervous eyes. I knew what he was wondering and I was wondering the same thing, was I angry? Was I sad? Was I okay with it? I looked at Twelve and slowly nodded, telling him that I accepted the fact that what had happened, happened. What am embarrassing thing to know about myself, I reached up and wiped my face as I softly laughed while Twelve lightly smiled, he pecked my head once more and made me look up at him.

How forgiving I am, how strong I am, how unbelievably an idiot I am. I felt the heat worsen as Twelve inched his face closer to mine, indicating that he wanted me to kiss him and I didn’t deny him, as I should of, and allowed him to press his lips against mine. I felt immediately weak as Twelve gently pulled back, but I wasn’t done just yet, I moaned and pushed my lips back against his delicious ones as he wrapped his arm around me and softly gave me pecks along the collarbone. I threw my head back in desire as he pulled back and glanced around, it was growing incredibly dark and I was ready to settle into bed already, but I also wanted Twelve with me.

“May we?” Twelve asked huskily, looking me square on in the face.

“We may.” I whispered in a wanton voice, his husky voice had made me to shiver.

He pulled me to my feet and led me toward the tent he hadn’t put up yet. I stepped back and watched as he worked on the tent, easily putting it up in minutes before holding the flap open for me to enter first, I walked in and sat on the grassy ground as Twelve entered next with his belongings, which was a sack of items. He took the sack off his back and opened it, he retrieved a large fur blanket and sat it down before gesturing me toward it, I laid on my back and stared at him as he sat his open sack aside and glanced out the flap before glancing back at me once more with the burning intensify of lust and desire. I, myself, felt the same feelings as I stared at Twelve, he was so manly and strong with the desire of my own. I wanted him, I needed him… I wanted to need him, and I had him. My body was ready, I could feel the temperature getting higher as I eagerly waited for Twelve to come to me, this time I was going to be awake, this time I was going to really enjoy it.

“I’m just making sure Tumeri actually gets on watch, love, then we can love under the night.” Twelve spoke, making me smile because he was trying to make sure there was nothing to worry about.

Having saw the person Twelve was looking for, he secured the flap in place and turned to me as I sat up and patiently waited for him. I wore nothing but the dress I had warn since I was taken, my nipples pointed eagerly as I shielded them away with embarrassment of my own excitement. Twelve moved to me and took up the position behind me as I rolled on my side and faced my back to him, his hand rested on my hip before slowly trailing up to my breast and cupping my left one first. He toyed with my nipple as I moaned at the tingling sensation it brought me, I whimpered in need as he trailed his hand from my nipple, down my stomach, and to my manhood that was now hardening with want.

I reached back and ran my hands along his masculine arms and shoulders as he eagerly groped my body, I felt his hand come up to my shoulder and lightly apply pressure so I could lay on my back. I did as he asked, my nipples pointing through the fabric of my gown, I looked at Twelve as he gently unraveled the ties at my swollen breast. His hand disappeared below my gown next and pulled it over my head, leaving me now completely nude. I reached down and started to fondle myself while Twelve watched, he started to slowly kiss down my body as I moaned and moved my hand out the way. This was what I wanted, this was what I needed to remember for the rest of my life, this was my new life…

**~Evy **

__

Epilogue

I wiped my mouth and moaned in agony as I pulled myself up right while glancing around to see if Twelve had spotted me yet, I sighed and wiped my soiled hand on my beautiful ombre dress that was indeed beauty. I frowned as I looked down at my extending stomach, I placed a hand on my stomach and gently caressed it as a soft kick was felt, a soft sigh left my lips as I turned and looked at Twelve while he gently spoke with Guniath, his father. I was rather astonished at the fact that I was with child, as men couldn’t have children but I guess I had been proven wrong, becuase of now… I was pregnant. It had only been three months since we returned to Guniath’s farm, which is composed of four different families all living under one roof, so at times, things got really complicated. Twelve took most of his day chopping wood for the different families staying with us all, Guniath took up time by practicing and planning other voyages with various people and the King, Numic mostly stayed in his room and probably planned everyone’s death, and one last person, Aumite stayed impregnating his wife with multiple children.

The women and I mostly worked in the kitchen constantly, preparing food for days ahead and beyond prosperity, making sure that we had food that made it through the weekend and properly preserving it. Guniath’s farm was gigantic with a large house for everyone to feel comfortable, including me and Twelve’s unborn child when it was ready to come out. Acres of harvestable trees and crop plots in various areas was what really kept the farm alive, including the fact that Guniath was ambitious and paid multiple families to run farms away from his. I leaned against the tree I had heaved behind with another heavy sigh, I was heaving very often and the ladies of the house said that was common while with child, so I thought not much of it. I laid my head against the tree as my long hair wavered along my calves, it was almost time to cut my hair to shoulder-length, and I was rather eager about it because I reached honest adulthood. I went to step away from the tree I was hiding behind when I ran straight into someone, I protectively put a hand over my stomach and looked at Numic with a confused expression, he had come to seeked me out and found me. I took a step back and looked at him with an unsure expression as he gave me a cheeky grin.

“Shouldn’t you be wishing us congrats?” Numic asked, making me frown as I looked at him with even more confusion.

“What are you talking about, Brother?” I asked, cocking my head with a owlish blink.

“That child you’re having, it’s ours… is it not?” He asked, cocking his own head this time.

“What?” I asked, glancing back to see if Twelve was nearby, just incase I needed him.

“Oh… he didn’t tell you?” Numic continued. “Twelve and I made a deal, raid Aufresh’s village for that child of yours… in return, your back maiden and eighteen hundred gold.”

It was as if the world around me stopped at a sudden halt as I blinked and tried to see through Numic’s spewed nonsense, there was no way that Twelve would do something like that to me, I didn’t want to believe he would do something like that to me. I stared at Numic in disbelief, I was in complete shock as I waited for Numic to stay he was lying on his brother, for Twelve to pick up on the conversation and say that his brother was lying on him.

“Don’t believe me, _Sister _ ?” Numic mocked with a heavy chuckle. “I bedded you the day before Twelve, perfect conclusion that he is trying to hide the fact that the child isn’t his.”

“Shut up.” I hissed, growing very angry as I turned and attempted to walk away.

He grabbed me tightly by the bicep and pulled me to him, making me whimper in fear as he looked down at me with a haunting smile. “Nu-uh, where do you think you’re going?”

“W-What do you want from me?” I asked in fear, watching as he withdrew a dagger to point at me.

“My eighteen hundred gold.” Numic hissed angrily, glaring down at me.

Numic lowered the blade and pointed it at my growing abdomen, making me stare at him in fear and disbelief that he was doing this right now, I knew the rivalry between Numic and Twelve was deeper than me but I was being added like an object and tossed between. Numic gestured for me to start walking as he held a tight grip on my bicep and the dagger still pointed at my belly. I looked forward as I walked, tears perched at my lids as I thought of the truth, was this the truth? Did Twelve really allow Numic to bed me when he had said it was him that did it? I blinked, hoping to make the tears go away but instead, they fell down my cheek as we moved closer to Twelve and his father as they spoke lowly.

“There you went, Nu…” Guniath trailed off as he analyzed the situation while Twelve only stared in complete anger and defeat. “Numic… we talked about this already, son.

“I want my gold, Father.” Numic replied, his eyes never leaving Twelve with a death glare. “Now.” He hissed.

“I gave it to you already.” Twelve growled angrily, taking a step toward us and Numic wedge the blade toward my stomach, making me yelp in pain.

Twelve halted immediately, his eyes falling on me as I stared at him pleadingly, Twelve had to help me. I looked up at Guniath for help and he was staring at Numic with a disappointed stare while Twelve though deeply, his frequently moving eyes told me the gears in his head were turning heavily and abruptly. I hiccupped and as sob fell from my lips and Numic tightened his hold on me, making me feel immediately alone and terrified for my unborn child, this wasn’t right, this wasn’t fair.

“I want more.” Numic hissed. “Or I’ll kill him and our child.”

“Why are you doing this?” Twelve asked, staring at Numic with so much rage. “I gave you what you wanted, in return, you were suppose to give Ammie back. You didn’t even complete your part of the deal-”

“Oh, but I did, Brother. I did ambush Aufresh and I indeed did find her, Brother. Oh I found her.” Numic said in a giddy way, chuckling evilly. “She was at age and bedded .”

I struggled in anger, there was no way that Ammie was at age and what they did to her wasn’t fair, she was only a child. I sobbed angrily as I turned and started to punch Numic angrily, who dodged each blow but still was growing agitated about what I was doing, I sobbed and punched harder, knowing it was no use but I didn’t care, the way he spoke of Ammie was a disgrace! He was a disgrace!

“Stop!” He growled angrily, shaking me a little but I was still angry.

“You’re disgusting!” I screamed angrily, smacking him in the face as he got too agitated and tossed me.

I moaned as I landed on my stomach and groaned heavily while pain shot up and down my back, I laid there completely dazed and not sure exactly what had happened, as it had happened so fast. I heard yelling as my vision fazed in and out, I moaned in pain as I slowly pulled myself to my knees and grabbed my agonizing stomach while a whimper. I turned and tried to get to my feet as Guniath yelled for help while pulling Twelve off of Numic, who he was viciously plowing his fist into repeatedly. I felt someone grab my arm and looked to find Evette, Aumite’s wife, holding me and trying to pull me up, I slowly got to my feet and lifted my gown as something sticky appeared to stick and run down my leg, it was blood. I gasped as my legs went weak but luckily Evette was there to catch me as I whimpered and grabbed onto her while my vision continued to fade in and out. Evette was soon joined by Diya, Guniath’s wife and the mother of all the men in the house, they both carefully hauled me into the farmhouse and sat me down as I grabbed my stomach in pain.

“Numic threw him on his stomach, Mother.” Evette cried, tears streaming down her face as she kneeled beside me. “He’s bleeding.” She sobbed.

“I-I…” I attempted to warn them but it was useless as everything went black.

**Hey, hey! This is the end of Book One for The Viking’s Baby Boy, I know this wasn’t really centered around the child that much, but Book Two will be indeed breathtaking and might make you shred a tear or two. I plan to have that book up very soon as well, I really hope you enjoyed this book. Leave your comments below but if you have something important to tell me, message me or email me. Thank you so much for reading my book, and making it this far in my book. **

**_Book Two: The Viking’s Homeland _ **

1. Prologue
2. Chapter One
3. Chapter Two
4. Chapter Three
5. Chapter Four
6. Chapter Five
7. Chapter Six
8. Chapter Seven
9. Epilogue