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Rejected by My Ex, Cherished by the Dragon King HD 1080p ASM
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00:03We were supposed to bind our souls at the temple of the Allfather that day,
00:06but my betrothé threw me out of the sacred grounds,
00:10then walked in with his childhood sweetheart instead.
00:13He looked at me like it was nothing.
00:16Ingrid's child needs a father so she could stay in the clan.
00:18Once we sever the blood oath, I'll come back and bind with you.
00:24Everyone thought I'd swallow my pride and wait until the next moon.
00:27After all, I'd already waited for seven years.
00:33But that night, I took a ship across the western fjords for an arranged marriage.
00:38I vanished from his world completely.
00:42Three years later, my husband and I flew our dragons back to the mainland for a grand ancestral blot.
00:49My husband had an urgent border skirmish to attend to,
00:52so he sent a beast and a handler to escort me.
00:54I walked out of the dragon docks.
00:57I walked into the arrival's courtyard and saw a warrior holding a parchment bearing my runic crest.
01:03I walked over and froze.
01:05Holding the parchment was my ex-betrothal, Sorin.
01:07He was craning his neck, looking past me at the incoming wiseries.
01:11He had Ingrid with him and half his old raiding party.
01:14One of the warriors nudged him.
01:15Sorin, isn't that your clinging admirer?
01:17That's Astrid.
01:18Sorin looked at me.
01:19He looked surprised for a split second.
01:21Then he smirked.
01:23I told you all long ago, I knew she'd fall back.
01:26The whole raiding party burst out laughing.
01:28Astrid vanished without a trace.
01:30Now she sees Sorin has plundered gold.
01:32She probably cries herself to sleep every night.
01:37One of them looked me up and down.
01:39Astrid, if you're here to see Sorin, why show up in plain wool?
01:43Couldn't you at least paint your face with war colors?
01:45Without Sorin, you can't even barter for a nice cloak.
01:49Pathetic.
01:51It was true.
01:52I used to spend hours getting ready for Seddon.
01:55Full braided hair, clan paints, fitted leathers and furs.
01:59Always making sure I looked perfect for him.
02:02But I didn't need to do that anymore, because I'm pregnant.
02:06And my husband refused to let me ride uncomfortably.
02:09He banned heavy chainmail, and had this plain toked spun by the light elves of Alfheim just for me.
02:15Listening to them mock me, it suddenly clicked.
02:18They only read the ruse on the garrison's dispatch.
02:20They had no idea the noble they were picking up was me.
02:27Since I wasn't saying anything, an old mutual friend stepped in, trying to play peacemaker.
02:33Astrid, glad to see you back.
02:35Solon actually spent years looking for you.
02:37He has been asking about you everywhere.
02:39Solon's smug smile stiffened.
02:41He cleared his throat and acted casually.
02:44Ingrid's kid starts shield training next week.
02:46From now on, you're getting him to the training grounds.
02:48He was still so incredibly arrogant.
02:50But I wasn't that naive little girl anymore.
02:53Looking at him now, I just felt exhausted and disgusted.
02:57I didn't want to waste another second on them.
02:58I was just about to tell them exactly who I was, but Ingrid beat me to it.
03:04Astrid, please don't be mad at Sorin.
03:06He's just trying to take care of you.
03:08You disappeared for three winters.
03:11What kind of shady taverns have you been staying at?
03:13Look at you.
03:15Solon wanted to make you his personal scribe, but clearly you're not a fit.
03:19Don't worry.
03:19Being my Thrail is an honor.
03:21No one will look down on you.
03:24Three years apart, she's still as arrogant as ever.
03:27She still makes me cringe.
03:29Sorin saw my scound and thought I was just jealous.
03:32His eyes flashed with triumph.
03:33All right, Astrid.
03:34Drop the attitude.
03:35You clearly can't survive out in the wilds.
03:37So hold your temper, take care of the kid, and learn your place.
03:41Don't worry.
03:42I got a perfect cot for you.
03:44Just in the dragon pens.
03:47The whole group howled with laughter.
03:50By Thor, Astrid.
03:52Show some appreciation.
03:53He's giving you free meat and mead.
03:55Isn't that better than wherever you're living now?
03:57Ingrid touched her gold-forged earring, putting on an affected tone.
04:01Don't you worry, dear.
04:03If my son acts up, I'll make sure he still behave.
04:05He won't let it out on you, I promise.
04:07Solon let out a cold laugh and shot me a glance.
04:10Why's that?
04:11She was always so stubborn, ran away over a tiny little misunderstanding.
04:14If she hit rock bottom out there, she deserves to suffer a little.
04:17Hearing that, my heart actually skipped a beat.
04:19But after three years, he still thought ditching me at the Temple of the Allfather for Ingrid
04:24was just a tiny little misunderstanding.
04:27Sorin, the one I had fallen in love with, was gone.
04:30He wasn't the boy who carried me across the frozen tundra, ignoring his own bleeding frostbite.
04:35He wasn't the broken youth who promised me the Nine Realms.
04:39He wasn't the warrior who, despite all his glory and spoils, was still willing to do game for me.
04:46But whatever.
04:47It was all in the past.
04:48None of it mattered anymore.
04:50Besides, I'm about to give birth to my second child.
04:54Pushed my feelings down.
04:55I didn't want to argue with them.
04:56It was pointless.
04:57Aren't you here to guide me to the keep?
04:59Let's go.
04:59They exchanged looks.
05:00Then they burst out laughing.
05:01Guide you?
05:02What a joke.
05:03She pointed at the runic parchment.
05:05Read it carefully.
05:06We are waiting for Lady Vag.
05:07Do you even know who that is?
05:08Vag was my new name.
05:09Of course I knew.
05:10Lady Vag is the matriarch of the Black Dragon Clan.
05:13She is the actual wife of Hyal Gulda Vag.
05:15Gulda Vag is a ruthless warlord.
05:17But he's completely obsessed with his wife.
05:19I heard he stayed solitary for years.
05:21Just waiting for her.
05:22Everyone in the realm knows the rule.
05:24Don't try to kiss up to Gondar.
05:26Kiss up to Lady Vag.
05:27She is his entire world.
05:29Listening to them gossip about my marriage.
05:31I couldn't help it.
05:32To win his wife's heart.
05:34Goran Vag bartered with the dwarves of Svotalfard for a custom arm ring.
05:37It's called the Tear of Yigadask.
05:39It costs 20 chests of gold.
05:41Lady Vag is literally the most envied woman in Midlad.
05:44Her eyes darted down to my wrist.
05:46She let out a sharp gasp.
05:49That's the exact same arm!
05:51It's a pretty good fake.
05:53Which broke stable boy bought this for you?
05:55Buying you a cheap iron knockoff?
05:57Absolute trash.
05:58I snatched my hand back.
06:00And gently rubbed the arm ring on my wrist.
06:04I smirked.
06:05Seeing my happy, unfazed smile.
06:09Sorin's eyes narrowed in pure rage.
06:11He lunged forward.
06:12He grabbed my wrist with a crushing grip.
06:14And violently ripped the arm ring off my arm.
06:16Ingrid eagerly stepped forward.
06:17She snatched the arm ring from Solon's hand.
06:19And started playing with it.
06:21Look.
06:21A high quality fake.
06:22Way better than the replica I bought from that merchant.
06:24But I'd never actually wear mine in the great hall.
06:26How embarrassing.
06:27These foreign knockoffs are more detailed.
06:29The weight actually feels real.
06:32She gave me a mocking, sickly sweet smile.
06:35Oh what, Astria?
06:36Are you saying you're the real Lady Vag?
06:38Are you the legendary warlord's wife?
06:40The second she said it, the raiding party erupted into hysterical laughter.
06:44Gunnan Vag was a feared conqueror.
06:46He was ruthless and unstoppable.
06:48And three years ago, I was just a pathetic nobody.
06:51The loser who got dumped at the temple.
06:52Ingrid spun the priceless arm ring around her finger.
06:55Astrid, sell this fake to me.
06:57I'll pay you double.
06:58I panicked, terrified she was gonna drop it.
07:00Give that back right now!
07:03Gunnar gave that to me!
07:04Shut your mouth!
07:06Soren glared at me like I was insane.
07:08Astrid, have you gone mad?
07:09How dare you just drop Lord Vag's name like that?
07:11Are you trying to get me sent to Valhalla early?
07:13His warrior buddies stared at me with pure rage.
07:16Do you have any idea how hard we fought for this escort duty?
07:19Gunnar Vag conquered Soren's clan last harvard.
07:22Our entire livelihood depends on him now.
07:25The only way Soren keeps his commander spot is if we impressed Lady Var.
07:29And you're out here spreading psychotic rumors that you know the high yearn?
07:33Are you trying to ruin Soren's honor?
07:34My stare must have been dead cold because Soren frowned.
07:37A flicker of genuine panic flashed across his eyes.
07:40You ungrateful wretch!
07:42Soren was kind enough to offer you a roof to survive.
07:45Don't push it.
07:45I know you're bitter about the past.
07:47But trying to sabotage his command out of petty revenge?
07:50That's sick.
07:51Sora shook his head in disgust.
07:53You're such a jealous shrew.
07:55But this time, he didn't keep screaming at me.
07:57He went quiet for a second.
07:58Then he pulled out a heavy pouch from his belt.
08:01He tossed a bag of pure silver pieces right at my chest.
08:05For the sake of our past bond, I'll let this slide.
08:08Take the silver.
08:09Go get some decent cloaks.
08:10If you really don't want to tend the pens for Ingrid's kid,
08:12I'll have you sent to the kitchens next week.
08:14Watching him play the generous savior made my stomach turn.
08:17The whole group watched me, waiting for me to grovel and take the pouch.
08:21Instead, I kicked it away.
08:23I reached over.
08:24No thank you, commander.
08:25Seems like you need it more than I do.
08:27Soren's face turned bright red.
08:29I ignored him and turned to walk away.
08:32But I barely made it two steps before he grabbed my arm.
08:36Astrid!
08:37What is your problem?
08:39Commander?
08:39What do you mean?
08:40I pulled my arm free.
08:42We broke our oaths three years ago.
08:43It's better if we keep our distance.
08:46I wouldn't want anyone to get the wrong idea.
08:48I was thinking about my fiercely loyal, slightly jealous dragon lord husband.
08:52But Soren glanced over at Ingrid.
08:53He looked like he had it all figured out.
08:55The Yars are hosting a great solstice feast for Lord Varg in three days.
08:58I was actually planning to bring you to my table.
09:00To let you experience true grand ceremony.
09:03But you'd need to buy a decent dress.
09:05I can't have you embarrassing me.
09:07I cut him off immediately.
09:09With all respect, I really don't need it.
09:13Hearing me reject him again, Soren grew annoyed.
09:16He was grinding his teeth.
09:19Astrid, you've grown a spine, haven't you?
09:21It's true what they say.
09:22The poorer you get, the bigger your attitude.
09:25Fine!
09:26If you don't want to go, forget it!
09:28I'll take Ingrid.
09:29Hearing that she got to attend the High Jars feast, Ingrid's eyes lit up.
09:32Soren, I promise I'll be perfect.
09:34I absolutely won't embarrass you.
09:37I was so incredibly done with them.
09:39I turned around and strode away.
09:41But I tossed one last look over my shoulder.
09:44I'm looking forward to seeing you both in three days.
09:47I practically sprinted out of the courtyard, hitting the crisp, freezing air outside, finally pushing
09:52down the nauseous churning in my stomach.
09:54My mind flashed back to three years ago.
09:56My clan had been pressuring me into an arranged marriage across the sea.
10:00I fought them on it.
10:01I begged Sudan, my betrothal of seven years, to just run away with me into the forests.
10:06To swear oaths and be together forever.
10:08But when I showed up at the Temple of the All-Father, he brought Ingrid.
10:12He told me her child needed a father under clan law.
10:15He told me he'd sever the tie to her in Amun's time and bond with me then.
10:19He told me not to overthink it.
10:20Watching him hold her hand and walk up to the altar, I realized what a fool I've been.
10:24I sailed across the western fjords for a blind arrangement that very night.
10:28Amun later, I married Gunnar Varg.
10:30A year later, we had our firstborn.
10:32And now, I'm pregnant with our second.
10:34Honestly, if it wasn't for Guller's ancestral blot, I definitely wouldn't have seen Sauron ever again.
10:40Three days later, I showed up to the Great Solstice Feast alone.
10:43Wearing light face paint and my custom Ellen-spun tunic.
10:47The second Sauron saw me, his eyes lit up.
10:50A smug smirk spread across his face.
10:52You said you didn't want to come.
10:54But here you are.
10:56Listen, if you want me back, you need to at least dress the part to match my new status.
11:02I brushed off his arrogance and tried to pass him.
11:04He stopped me angrily after just two steps.
11:07Astrid!
11:08I'm talking to you.
11:10Our seats are right here.
11:11Where do you think you're going?
11:12I shook his hand off.
11:14Those are your seats.
11:15Mine is over there.
11:16I pointed straight at the high jar's carved oak table.
11:19Sauron's face infinitely darkened.
11:21Ingrid shot me a venomous glare.
11:22She pointed directly at my wrist and yelled at the top of her lungs.
11:25Astrid, how did you sneak in here?
11:27Are you here to ruin everything?
11:29How dare you wear that arm ring?
11:32Her screeching made the entire mead hall turn to look at us.
11:34People immediately started whispering.
11:37Wait, is that the tear of Yggazik?
11:39Lord Varg forged that for his wife.
11:41Tonight is Lady Varg's first public appearance.
11:43Is this girl trying to mock the High Yul's wife?
11:46She sneaked past the guards.
11:48Is she trying to humiliate us in front of Lord Varg?
11:51One of the elder warriors turned to Sauron.
11:54Commander, is this young lady of your clan?
11:56Sauron saw that I wasn't even looking at him.
11:58He adjusted his expensive fur cloak and said coldly,
12:01No, I don't know her.
12:03Hearing that, Ingrid looked completely thrilled.
12:05She lifted her chin and sneered at me.
12:07Take that fake arm ring off and get out!
12:10I looked at her, completely amused.
12:12Are you sure?
12:13Ingrid realized the clan elders were watching her.
12:15Her eyes turned vicious.
12:16Stop acting like you're special!
12:17Take it off!
12:18She lunged forward to rip it off my wrist.
12:20I swapped her hand away and stepped backward, but someone's boot shot out behind me.
12:24I tripped.
12:25I was completely stunned.
12:26Before I could get up, Ingrid stomped her heavy boot down on my hand, tore the arm ring
12:31off my wrist, treating this cheap garbage like treasure.
12:34She spat.
12:34My hand throwed from her heel.
12:35My wrist was bleeding and torn.
12:36But I just sat there, staring blankly at the snapped armband and the glowing enchanted
12:39stone scattering across the rush-covered floor.
12:40Pick her up and throw her to the wolves!
12:41A few berserkers immediately surrounded me.
12:43They reached down to grab my arms and legs.
12:45I panicked and struggled.
12:46Stop touching me!
12:48I am Gurner Vargs!
12:49Ingrid flapped me across the face before I could finish.
12:51Are you saying that you're Lord Vargs Thrill now?
12:53You psychotic witch!
12:55She wasn't satisfied.
12:56She backhanded me a second time.
12:57When I sailed back to the mainland, I didn't want to bother with revenge.
12:59It felt beneath me.
13:00But right now, I was going to make sure she paid for this in blood.
13:03Sorin crouched down in front of me.
13:04He reached out to touch my bleeding wrist.
13:06I instinctively flinched away from him.
13:07His eyes turned ice cold.
13:09Astrid, are you done throwing your little fit?
13:11You showed up wearing a fake dwarfen ring, dressed like a complete mess.
13:14Just because you see I'm wealthy now, and you want to make me jealous.
13:16If you want me back, beg for it.
13:18I'll say yes.
13:19I let out a dark, freezing laugh.
13:20I looked him dead in the eye.
13:22Sorin, you are absolutely done.
13:24Sorin frowned.
13:25He opened his mouth to yell at me again.
13:27But suddenly, the entire mead hall went dead silent.
13:29All the warriors frantically straightened their stances and rushed toward the massive timber doors.
13:34Solon panicked and yanked me to my feet.
13:36Lord Varg is here.
13:37Behave yourself.
13:38He hissed.
13:39And don't worry, Astrid.
13:40Ingrid and I have already severed our oaths.
13:42I stared at him, rubbing my bruised hand.
13:44This man was absolutely repulsive.
13:45What did his broken oaths have to do with me?
13:56At that exact moment, Gunnard walked through the doors.
14:03Surrounded by a massive entourage of elite guards and massive black hounds.
14:09Outside, the roar of his dragon shook the roof beams.
14:12He was holding our toddler in his arms.
14:13Once they got into the hall, my son squirmed to get down.
14:17Gunnard sent him on his floor.
14:18The adorable little boy instantly captured the entire room's attention.
14:21His nursery maid hurried nervously right behind him.
14:23Terrified, he'd tripped.
14:24Sorin didn't notice who the kid was running towards.
14:26He turned to me and whispered,
14:27Astrid, if you stop acting jealous of Ingrid,
14:29I'll forgive you for vanishing for three winters.
14:31I'll give you a chance to give me a child.
14:33A child of ours.
14:34I didn't say a single word to him.
14:35I just looked past him, trying to catch Gunnard in my son's eyes through the crowd.
14:38And then, it happened.
14:40Gunnard followed the toddler's clumsy little footsteps,
14:42right up to where I was.
14:43The second my little boy saw me, he panicked.
14:45He threw himself into my arms.
14:46Mother, who hurt you?
14:47Why is there so much blood?
14:48The word mother echoed through the silent hall.
14:50The warriors who had just watched me get assaulted,
14:52stared at me in absolute horror.
14:54My son's warm hug instantly washed away my disgust.
14:56I crouched down and gently pinched his chubby cheek.
14:58Mother's crying, my boy.
14:59He grabbed my bleeding hand and gently blew on the torn skin.
15:02Tears welled up in his eyes.
15:03Mother, who dared to do this to you?
15:05Before I could comfort him,
15:06the air in the room suddenly turned freezing cold.
15:08A heavy, suffocating pressure washed over the crowd.
15:10Gunnard was walking towards us.
15:11The sea of terrified warriors parted for him.
15:13Ever since I got pregnant with our second baby,
15:14he had been insanely overprotective.
15:15Glued to my side day and night,
15:16I instantly regretted flying back ahead of him.
15:18I picked up our son and turned around.
15:20The bright red blood dripping down my wrist
15:22stood out starkly against my son's white linen shirt.
15:24Our son squirved to get down.
15:26Father, someone hurt mother.
15:27We have to make them pay.
15:29Gunnard stepped forward and gently took my bleeding wrist.
15:31His face was terrifyingly dark.
15:34Astrid, what is this?
15:35Every time I take my eyes off you, you get hurt.
15:37Who in the Nine-Eyeders dared hurt you?
15:39Seeing this ruthless warlord turn into a fiercely protective husband
15:43made my heart melt.
15:46He was so protective.
15:48A mosquito bite, a tiny mark from sleep.
15:50Even just half a horn less of mead,
15:52he's instantly worried.
15:53But I loved how intensely he cared about me.
15:56The hall's torches were heavily dimmed,
15:58but our son felt something hard under his leather shoe.
16:01He bent down and picked up the massive center starstone
16:04from my broken arm ring.
16:06Father, isn't this the present you gave mother?
16:08Guller took the glowing stone and flipped it over.
16:11Seeing his own engraved clan ruders,
16:13he looked at the crushed arm bling on the floor,
16:15then at my mangled wrist.
16:17His hand gripped the carved dragon head of a nearby chair so hard,
16:20the solid oak literally splintered under his grip.
16:23Frustrated by the shadows,
16:25he gently forced me into the chair.
16:27He roared at the thralls.
16:28Light every single bolsa in this hall!
16:32When our eyes met,
16:33his pupils slightly like a dragon's,
16:35he suddenly cuffed my face.
16:37What happened to your face?
16:39They actually dared to do this to you?
16:41I'm fine, Gonar.
16:42I said softly, patting his hand.
16:44Astrid, I am your husband.
16:46You never have to take any abuse.
16:48His voice dropped to a lethal growl.
16:50No one bullies mother!
16:52Our son nodded furiously.
16:55Honestly, I could have handled Siren and Ingrid myself,
16:57but maybe it was the pregnancy,
16:58or just finally feeling safe.
17:00My voice suddenly cracked.
17:02All the built-up exhaustion finally broke through.
17:05You weren't here.
17:06They all picked on me.
17:09Ingrid's little minion, Tova,
17:11strutted out of the crowd.
17:13Astrid, where did you hire these two mummers?
17:16Their acting is pretty good.
17:19Do you want Ingrid to get them a spot in the Bard's Guild?
17:22Since you're clearly too broke to afford a decent cloak,
17:25I've got an old dress.
17:26If you don't mind, I can give it to you
17:27so you won't make a fool of yourself.
17:28Tova had arrived late.
17:30She totally missed Gonar's terrifying entrance.
17:32She was just Ingrid's lapdog,
17:34dressed up to snag a wealthy yard tonight.
17:36And she knew the easiest way to impress Ingrid
17:39was to bully me.
17:41Tova threw her head back
17:42and cackled at her own joke.
17:45Usually, the warriors would instantly laugh along with her.
17:48But this time,
17:49the entire mead hall just stared at her
17:51like she was suicidal.
17:52Tova noticed the dead silence.
17:54But she doubled down.
17:56You're a good-looking brute.
17:59If you leave Astrid,
18:01I wouldn't mind being your shield mate.
18:04She looked right at Gonar and smirked.
18:08Her words made the corner of my tauth twitch in embarrassment.
18:12She wanted to be a shield mate?
18:13To Gunnar Varg?
18:14I honestly didn't know if she was incredibly brave
18:17or just incredibly stupid.
18:19Anyone with functioning eyes could feel Gonan's terrifying dragon lord aura.
18:24Gollar actually let out a dark, furious laugh.
18:27If I offered to be his shield mate,
18:29he'd be thrilled.
18:30But any other woman,
18:31he would only think she was courting the Valkyries.
18:34Over the years,
18:35any woman who tried to throw herself at him
18:37all vanished.
18:39Tova finally realized the vibe was completely toxic.
18:42She nervously stepped toward Ingrid for backup.
18:45But Ingrid wanted absolutely nothing to do with her.
18:49Lapped her viciously across the face.
18:51Tova crashed hard onto the stone floor.
18:54Tova!
18:55Are you insane?
18:56You dare offend Lord and Lady Varg?
18:59She knew Gordar's ruthless reputation.
19:01She knew he fed anyone who even looked at his wife the wrong way to his drakes.
19:05Tova started shaking uncontrollably.
19:08Someone in the crowd gasped.
19:09Every eye in the room dropped to the floor.
19:11A puddle was forming beneath her.
19:13Tova had literally wet herself in pure terror.
19:16By the gods!
19:17Look at her skirt!
19:19Gullar didn't even blink.
19:21He just slightly furrowed his brow.
19:23Two massive brisarkers immediately stepped up and dragged Tova out of the hall.
19:29Sore and Ingrid's faces burned bright red.
19:32Even though Tova was the one getting dragged out.
19:35Everyone knew she was just echoing their insults.
19:39Meanwhile, Gullar's private healer was frantically cleaning the torn skin on my wrist.
19:43I winked.
19:45Just a tiny hiss of pain.
19:47Instantly, Gonnard and our son glared at the healer like they were going to execute him.
19:54You don't even know how to apply the pouchage properly?
19:58The poor healer's hands started shaking violently in fear.
20:02I immediately shot my husband and son a stern warning glare.
20:06Instantly, the terrifying warlord and the fierce toddler melted.
20:09Astrid.
20:10Mother.
20:11They both looked at me with identical, pathetic eyes.
20:14I let out a soft sigh.
20:16Calm down, you two.
20:17The healer is trying to help.
20:18Stop glaring at him.
20:19With my reassurance, the healer let out a massive breath of relief.
20:22He finished his work and turned to Gunnar.
20:24Lord Varg, your lady is perfectly fine.
20:26The unborn child is safe.
20:29Her wrist is pretty torn up, though.
20:31I'll use our best troll fat slab to prevent any scarring.
20:34Gunnar didn't say a single word.
20:35I knew exactly what that meant.
20:37That was his pre-explosion silence.
20:38Standing in the crowd, Solon looked terrified.
20:41But underneath the panic, he burned with jealousy as he watched us being close.
20:44But his command's survival was on the line, so he had to bite his tongue.
20:48Gunnar stood up beside me, looking out over the terrified crowd of warriors and Jaws.
20:52He looked so lethal.
20:53But honestly, I found it adorable.
20:55Especially with our son standing right beside him, looking like a tiny, angry clone.
21:00I want to know exactly what happened over the last three days.
21:02If someone speaks up now, maybe I will spare your life.
21:06But if I have to find out myself, every single one of you is going to feed the dragons.
21:11It was a naked, terrifying threat.
21:13These people had fought tooth and nail just to get an invite to this feast.
21:17None of them wanted to die for Sorin.
21:19Sorin panicked.
21:20He desperately stepped forward to save his own skin.
21:23Lord Varg, it's just a huge misunderstanding.
21:25As Astrid's betrothed, I was just catching up with her.
21:28It was just an accident.
21:29I froze.
21:30He actually used the word betrothed right to my husband's face.
21:33It was pure, delusional arrogance.
21:35He really thought I had spent the last three years staying pure for him.
21:38He completely ignored the murderous look crossing Gonor's face.
21:41I whipped my head around him.
21:42Gondart had literally crushed his car's drinking horn.
21:45Barehanded.
21:45Blood was dripping down his fingers.
21:46Gonor!
21:47I grabbed his hand, completely horrified.
21:49I grabbed a clean linen cloth and frantically started wrapping Gonor's bleeding hand.
21:52I spun around and screamed at Sorin.
21:55Sabotage my marriage!
21:56I think I've been way too kind to you.
21:58I only love Gonor!
22:00Astrid, I know you're bitter.
22:01But Ingrid and I have already severed our oaths now.
22:04Her kid will call you mother.
22:05You only married this warlord to make me mad, right?
22:07If you don't like Ingrid, I'll banish her to the wild.
22:10I honestly couldn't believe what I was hearing.
22:12Shamelessness really blew my mind.
22:14Gordard's blood was smearing onto my clothes.
22:16As I urgently pressed the cloth to his palm, he suddenly started laughing.
22:20A low, genuinely happy laugh.
22:22Why are you laughing?
22:24And gently patted my head.
22:25Astrid, you just said I'm the one you love the most.
22:28Our son literally rolled his eyes.
22:29His ruthless, terrifying dad was currently acting like a lovesick youth.
22:33Just because I defended him, the other half were dying of envy.
22:35I could hear the frantic whispered spreading through the crowd.
22:38Soror stood there, his fists completely clenched in humiliation.
22:42But my son wasn't done with him.
22:44Leap looked him up and down with absolute disgust.
22:46My mother is the queen of our keep.
22:48You think you deserve her?
22:49Mother is only having two kids.
22:51Me and my little sister.
22:52I know all about you.
22:53You're the trash who broke my mom's heart.
22:56You're not as battle-hardened as my dad.
22:58You're not as tall as my dad.
23:00You're not as strong as my dad.
23:01Leap hinched his little nose.
23:03And you smell like a wet dog.
23:05It's making my eyes water.
23:06Is your kid going to grow up to be a leech who lives off women's weaving, just like you?
23:10The elite guests surrounding us erupted into laughter.
23:13His chest heaved with shame.
23:15Everyone in that room knew the truth.
23:16He only got his commander title by leeching off Ingrid's clan wealth.
23:19Hearing all this, Ingrid completely snapped.
23:21Sore had literally just asked me to replace her.
23:24To be his son's real mother.
23:26Ingrid grabbed a silver meat-carving knife.
23:28She lunged straight at left.
23:29I didn't even think.
23:31I let go of Ganon's hand and threw my body off of my Sony over my son.
23:34A blinding, agonizing pain ripped through my back.
23:38Leap, are you?
23:39I didn't even get to finish the sentence.
23:40Everything went black.
23:41I collapsed to the floor.
23:44I woke up to the sharp smell of bitter herbs and burning sage.
23:48I glanced down at my linen bandages and felt a little daisy.
23:51My best friend, Sigrid, threw her arms around me.
23:53Astrid!
23:54You're finally awake!
23:55If you stayed out any longer, your husband and your son were going to burn this realm to ash!
23:59I panicked and instantly touched my pregnant belly.
24:03Sigrid knew exactly what I was thinking.
24:05You're fine.
24:06The child is perfectly fine.
24:07The healers said you fainted, frationed from the shock and the pain.
24:11That psycho witch actually tried to stab a toddler!
24:14I started coughing violently, my throat completely dry.
24:17Sigrid grabbed a wooden cup of water and rubbed my back.
24:20Slow down.
24:21Drink.
24:21Honestly, Astrid, you were way too impulsive.
24:23Goldar had ten berserkers in that room.
24:25They would have stopped her.
24:26Leap didn't need you to take a blade for him.
24:28He's a fierce little wolf.
24:29I finally caught my breath.
24:31He's my child.
24:32Of course I protected him.
24:33I looked around the empty stone chamber of the healer's keep.
24:36Where are they?
24:36Sigrid's eyes lit up.
24:38Getting blood revenge, obviously!
24:39I wanted to go watch!
24:40But your husband and your kid are literally terrifying.
24:43So I stayed here.
24:44Is staying with me a chore?
24:45Astrid, you don't even know.
24:47When I got to the feast, you were already unconscious.
24:50Your sweet, soft little boy?
24:52He grabbed a dagger and stabbed it right into Ingrid's hand.
24:55I didn't even know a toddler could have that much strength.
24:58And Gunnard?
24:59He looked like Fen'nal unleashed.
25:00Gunnard found out what happened at the docks.
25:03He found out Sorin slapped you and broke your arm ring.
25:05He had his guards pinned sore to the floor.
25:07And he severed the hand that hit you with his broadsword.
25:11Leif just stood there and watched.
25:13Didn't even blink.
25:14He's a terrifying little devil.
25:15Then they beat Sora's face into an unrecognizable pulp.
25:18But that wasn't even the worst part.
25:20Gulnar found out Ingrid wanted your enchanted stones.
25:23Gulnar found out Ingrid wanted your enchanted stones.
25:26So he had his men bring out a massive sack of raw, uncut dragon rubies.
25:31He looked at her and said,
25:32You love taking things that don't belong to you?
25:35I'll give you exactly what you want.
25:36The stones and my wife's leftovers.
25:42Ingrid refused to eat them.
25:44So Gunnar had her kid dragged into the hall.
25:49She was so terrified.
25:51She's swallowing the jagged stones.
25:52Then Gulnar had her face slashed to pieces.
25:56Right in front of her, he had her son's bowstrings cut.
25:59And he had her dumped into the frozen sea.
26:03I stared at Sigrid, completely stunned.
26:05What about the yards?
26:06Oh, Gunnar handled them too.
26:08Every single warrior who stood there and watched you get bullied,
26:11Gunnar had their shield arms sliced open.
26:13Just enough to leave a permanent scar.
26:16To punish them for just standing by.
26:18If I wasn't her sworn sister, I probably would have gotten sliced too.
26:21She fake wiped a tear, trying to make me laugh.
26:23I just rolled my eyes at her.
26:24The bards were there.
26:25Siglin continued, but no one dared to sing of the blood.
26:27The word just spread that Sorin's clan was dissolved overnight.
26:30Any yar who didn't help you?
26:32Their trade routes are being actively blockaded by Varg longships.
26:35Right now, Gundal and Leif are hunting Sorin down.
26:38He was supposed to be thrown to the waves with Ingrid, but apparently, they made some sick deal.
26:45Ingrid threw herself at the guards to buy him time, and Solon fled into the woods.
26:50Gulter's revenge had been absolutely brutal, but honestly, I wasn't scared of him at all.
26:54I was just worried that our sweet toddler was led astray by the violence.
26:58Gunnar and Leif rushed in.
26:59Leif practically shoved his aunt out of the way.
27:01Mother!
27:02He threw himself at my fur-lined couch.
27:04Gunnar's eyes were completely bloodshot.
27:06He looked like he hadn't slept since the last harsh winter.
27:08I'm okay, Gunnar.
27:09Don't worry.
27:10Leif, did Father yell at you while I was asleep?
27:13Leif froze.
27:14He pouted and tears fell down his dirt-smudged cheeks.
27:17Father didn't yell at me.
27:19I wrapped my arms around my son and shot Gunnar a dark glare.
27:22The ruthless dragon lord immediately looked guilty.
27:24He awkwardly rubbed the back of his neck.
27:26Father, I'll never let anyone hurt you again.
27:28It was all my fault.
27:30I'm sorry.
27:31Protecting you is mother's job.
27:32I don't blame you at all.
27:35Gorda, the healer's already bound it with herbs.
27:37There's nothing to see.
27:38But he gently traced the edge of the wound and softly blew on the wound.
27:41It sent a shiver down my spine.
27:42Astrid, I swear to the gods there will never be a next time.
27:45I believe you.
27:46You're the man I love the most.
27:48I treasure my life because I plan to spend the rest of life with you until Valhalla.
27:52Leif, grab mother's-
27:52On the day of my departure, I was packing my sackle.
27:55The timber door creaked open.
27:56I had my back to-
27:57Astrid.
27:57I slowly turned around.
27:58I froze.
27:59Standing in the doorway was Sorin.
28:00His face was an unrecognizable swollen mess of purple bruises.
28:03Astrid, you have to save me.
28:05Valhalla's insane.
28:07Come with me.
28:07We can still be together.
28:08He was literally missing half his teeth, and he still thought I wanted him?
28:13Sorin, you are nothing to me.
28:15You are just a pathetic coward.
28:17He opened his mouth to argue, but suddenly, a massive shadow swallowed him.
28:21I should have fed you to the Drax when I had the chance.
28:27That was the last time I ever saw him.
28:29He was sent to the deepest iron mines.
28:32Weeks had passed.
28:33The wounds had healed, but the weight of it all still lingered in my chest.
28:36In the painting, Gonar looked at me with absolute, consuming devotion.
28:40But I was looking forward, distant, indifferent.
28:43As I pulled it off the stone wall, dozens of loose parchment sketches and memory stones
28:48rained down onto the floor.
28:50I dropped to my knees, completely shocked.
28:53They were sketches of me.
28:54He had been watching me for years.
28:56I heard footsteps.
28:58Gornan walked into the hall.
28:59He saw me sitting on the floor, surrounded by his secret stash.
29:02Astrid, how did you...
29:03The color completely brained of the terrifying dragon lord's face.
29:05He looked like a thief caught red-handed.
29:07If you liked me this much back then, why didn't you just present yourself?
29:11You made me waste seven winters with that oath-breaking fool.
29:13The shading in this one is actually really good.
29:15I love it.
29:16Astrid, you don't blame me for being a shadow, for watching from the dark.
29:20Shut up.
29:21You're not a shadow.
29:22Looking at these, all I feel is how much you love me.
29:24Astrid!
29:25I never dared to ask the gods for your love.
29:27I just wanted to be allowed to guard your flank.
29:30Stop saying stupid things.
29:31I love you the most.
29:32My heart is completely yours.
29:34You're under Astrid's protection now.
29:36Consider this your meat allowance.
29:37I never realized.
29:38That lonely boy eating stale bread was Goldar.
29:41Because of his past, he always felt unworthy.
29:43I made a silent promise to the gods.
29:45I was going to spend the rest of my life showing this insecure, sensitive dragon lord exactly how much I
29:51loved him.
29:52A moon had passed since the solstice feast.
29:55Sorden was dead to the world, or so we thought.
29:57But peace is a rare jewel in the frozen north.
29:59Word of Gonar's ruthless devotion to me had spread across the realms.
30:03To most, it was a romantic epic sung by bards.
30:06But to Gonar's adoptive father, Yal Kael of the Icewolf clan,
30:10Kael was the tyrant who raised Gonar with nothing but cold steel and starvavation.
30:15The heavy doors of our great hall swung open.
30:18Kael's envoy marched in, flanked by heavily armored frost warriors.
30:22He didn't bow to Gonar.
30:24Lord Kael demands tribute.
30:26The envoy spit.
30:27Ten chests of dwarfian gold.
30:29A hundred purebred warhounds.
30:31And to ensure your loyalty, Lord Varg, your wife will come with us to the Iceworth Keep as a hostage.
30:39The entire mead hall went dead silent.
30:41Every warrior in the room reached for their axes.
30:45The temperature in the hall plummeted.
30:47He slowly stood up, his hand resting on the hilt of his broadsword.
30:51I placed a hand on his arm.
30:53Wait.
30:53Gonard froze.
30:54He looked at me.
30:55I stood up from my throne.
30:57I didn't cower.
30:58I didn't hide behind my warlord husband.
31:00I walked slowly down the stone steps.
31:03The envoy smirked, thinking I was surrendering.
31:06Good girl.
31:06Kael promised you a warm cage.
31:09In a flash, I pulled the hidden Elgin dagger.
31:11I didn't hesitate.
31:12I grabbed the envoy by his thick braided beard.
31:14But my blade was already pressed deep into the side of his neck, drawing a bead of bright red blood.
31:18Go back to Kael.
31:19Tell him he doesn't get hostage.
31:21Tell him Lady Varg is bringing a war to his doorstep.
31:23And sliced it clean off with one brutal motion.
31:26In our culture, cutting a warrior's beard was the ultimate humiliation.
31:30Worse than death.
31:31The envoy screamed in outrage, reaching for his weapon.
31:35The envoy fled in absolute terror.
31:37Gonard stood behind me, his chest heaving with proud.
31:40His eyes burned with an intoxicating mix of lust and awe.
31:43My queen.
31:44But we knew Kael wouldn't back down.
31:46What we didn't know was that Kael had a new pet.
31:48Deep in the freezing caverns of the Iceworld Keep, Sorin was kneeling before Jarl Kael.
31:53He had survived the cliffs.
31:54Washed up on the rocky shores.
31:56Broken and pathetic.
31:58Only to be found by Kael's scouts.
32:01Sorin's face was scarred.
32:02His eyes were hollow.
32:03Consumed by pure, toxic obsession.
32:06I know her weakness, Lord Kael.
32:07Sorin rasped.
32:08Astrid travels to the Sacred Dragon Hatcheries alone every week.
32:11She goes to sing to the Unhatched Eggs.
32:13Give me a dozen of your best assassins.
32:17I will bring her to you.
32:19And Gunnar will surrender his entire kingdom to get her back.
32:22Do it.
32:23But remember, the woman belongs in the dungeons.
32:27Of course.
32:28Three days later, I was in the cavernous warmth of the Sacred Hatcheries.
32:31The massive, glowing dragon eggs hummed with magic.
32:34I gently ran my hands over a crimson shell.
32:36Suddenly, the entrance to the cavern was blocked.
32:38A dozen frost assassins filed in, their blades drawn.
32:41And stepping out from behind them was Sorin.
32:43He looked like a monster.
32:45Hello, Astrid.
32:46He smiled, flashing his iron hook.
32:48I didn't scream.
32:49I didn't drop my basket of herbs.
32:50You really are like a cockroach, Sorin.
32:52His scarred face twitched with rage.
32:54You ruined my life!
32:55I lost my command!
32:57I lost my hand!
32:58I lost Ingrid!
32:59And you get to sit on a throne?
33:01He stepped closer.
33:02His eyes crazed.
33:03Gunnar isn't here to save you this time.
33:06Dragons are on patrol at the border.
33:07It's just you and me.
33:09If you come quietly, I won't let them hurt the child in your belly.
33:13We're going to leave this realm.
33:14You're going to be mine again.
33:16He reached out to grab me, but I just smiled.
33:18A cold, authoritative smile.
33:20Sorin, you always underestimated me.
33:23I didn't marry a dragon lord.
33:25Just to sit and look pretty.
33:26I raised a carved bone whistle to my lips, and blew.
33:34The sound was deafening, echoing through the volcanic cavern.
33:38The ground began to shake violently.
33:41Sora stumbled backward, his assassins looking around in panic.
33:44What did you do?
33:47The wall of the cavern exploded inward.
33:50Massive, ancient crimson drake.
33:53The mother of the clutch, smashed through the rock.
33:57Her scales glowed with liquid fire.
34:00Her golden eyes locked onto the men, threatening me.
34:04Let out a roar that physically threw three assassins into the air.
34:09I stood calmly beside her massive, scaled leg.
34:12I gently rested my hand on her fiery snout.
34:15Did you really think I came to the hatcheries unprotected?
34:19I am Lady Varg.
34:21I am the mother of the keep.
34:24These beasts answer to me.
34:26Kill them all.
34:28The cavern turned into an absolute slaughterhouse.
34:31Fire bred down from the ceiling.
34:34The assassins were turned to ash in seconds.
34:37Gunnel stood over Sorin.
34:39He had flown back the second he heard the drake's roar.
34:43His broadsword was drawn, glowing with runak magic.
34:46I should have cut off your head the first time.
34:50Sorin sobbed, raising his iron hook in a pathetic attempt to defend himself.
34:54Mercy!
34:55Lord Varg!
34:56Mercy!
34:57I was forced!
34:59Kyle made me do it!
35:00Gol'nun raised his sword for the killing blow.
35:02Gol'nun!
35:04Stop.
35:04Gol'nar instantly froze.
35:06He lowered his blade and looked at me.
35:08I walked over, my elven tunic completely untouched by the sut and fire.
35:12I looked down at the pathetic, sniveling man I had once loved.
35:16There was no sadness left.
35:18Just absolute disgust.
35:20I didn't want him to be gone in burden.
35:21I wanted to handle this myself.
35:23Sorin, true rulers never accept the trade.
35:27And dragons never forgive.
35:30I looked at my kingdom date.
35:31I gave a short, sharp nod.
35:33The draken lunged forward.
35:34Her massive jaw slapped down on Sotan Seikun's legs.
35:38He let out one final blood-curling shriek.
35:40As she dragged him backward into the volcanic depths.
35:44Gone forever.
35:45I turned to Gol'nar.
35:47Now, let's go kill your father.
35:50The war lasted exactly one day.
35:54Gol'nar and I didn't send an army.
35:56We went ourselves.
35:59I rode my Crimson Drac.
36:02And Gol'nar rode his monstrous Black Wyland.
36:05We descended upon the Icewil's keep like gods of destruction.
36:09The skies burned.
36:11The frost warriors threw down their shields.
36:13The moment they saw us, they knew they were fighting a losing battle against the true king and queen of
36:18the North.
36:19Jarl'Kael was dragged out of his freezing throne room.
36:23He was thrown into the snow at Gon'nar's feet.
36:26The cruel man who had starved and beaten Gol'n as a boy was now trembling like a leaf.
36:31He looked at Gol'n, then looked at me.
36:32Gol'n, my son.
36:34I made you a warlord!
36:36Gol'n didn't say a word.
36:38He looked at me, waiting for my judgment.
36:40I looked down at Ka'ale.
36:41You raised a weapon to my family.
36:43Your clan is dissolved.
36:44Your lands belong to the Varg Banner.
36:46And your name will be erased from the sagas.
36:48Gondar swung his blade.
36:49The tyranny of the Icewilf clan was ended forever.
36:52Our rule over the Northern realms was now absolute.
36:54Peace finally settled over Midland.
36:56And two moons later, my time came.
36:58The healers rushed into the Great Chamber.
37:01Gon'ar was a complete wreck.
37:02The most ruthless, bloodthirsty warlord in the Nine Realms was pacing the halls, tearing his hair out.
37:08Threatening to execute the gods themselves, if I suffered.
37:12Leaf sat by the door, sharpening a small wooden dagger, looking equally stressed.
37:16After hours of agonizing labor, a piercing cry broke the silence.
37:21The moment she was born, an incredible thing happened.
37:25Every single dragon in the Varg pens, and wild dragons for miles around, took flight.
37:32They circled our keep, roaring in a massive, earth-shackering chorus.
37:37Gullen burst into the room, tears streaming down his face.
37:40He fell to his knees beside the bed.
37:42He didn't even look at the baby first.
37:44He buried his face in my neck, kissing my sweat-dreamt skin.
37:47Astrid, my life, my soul. Thank you. Thank you.
37:53I smiled weakly and nodged him.
37:55Look at your daughter, you giant bear.
37:57The healer gently placed the bundled infant in his massive, scarred arms.
38:01We named her Freya.
38:03She had my features, but Goldor's striking, intense golden eyes.
38:07The Great Naming Ceremony was held a week later.
38:10The Mii Hall was packed with Jarls from every corner of the conquered realms.
38:16They had come to swear fealty, not just to Gundar, but to me.
38:20Leif stood proudly next to the crib, fiercely guarding his little sister.
38:24Any jar who stepped too close got a vicious glare from the toddler.
38:27Gundar stood before the roaring hearthfire.
38:29He raised his drinking horn.
38:30The hall erupted in cheers and the stomping of boots.
38:34But Gunnar wasn't finished.
38:35He turned to me.
38:36He pulled a newly forged crown from a velvet chest.
38:39It was made of black iron and intertwined dragonglass.
38:42He knelt before me, in front of all his lords and warriors.
38:45I have conquered the North, but my heart was conquered long ago.
38:49I crown you Astrid.
38:52Absolute Queen of the Northern Skies.
38:55I looked out at the kneeling warriors, and then down at the man,
38:59and then down at the man who worshipped the ground I walked on.
39:02I had truly won.
39:04The winter winds howled outside the keep,
39:07but the great hall was warm and bright.
39:09Sorin and Ingrid were nothing but forgotten ashes in the wind.
39:12Their names were never spoke again.
39:14Leif was eight now, already flying his own young will in over the fjords.
39:17He was a fierce, protective older brother.
39:20Little Freya was five, a tiny terror who trailed after her father everywhere.
39:24She had the entire clan wrapped around her little finger.
39:26I sat on the fur-lined throne, watching them play by the hearth.
39:30Gollard walked up behind me.
39:31He wrapped his massive arms around my waist, and rested his chin on my shoulder.
39:35He smelled like pine, cold steel, and leather.
39:38What are you thinking about, my queen?
39:39I leaned back into his solid chest, just thinking about how much I hate plain barley bread.
39:44Gonnard chuckled, a deep vibration against my back.
39:47He knew I was talking about the lonely boy I fed all those years ago.
39:50He turned my chin and kissed me deeply.
39:52His eyes still held the exact same pure, consuming obsession as the day we met.
39:57I will worship you.
39:59Gonnard whispered against my lips, until the stars burn out and the seas freeze over.
40:03You are my beginning, and my end.
40:06I smiled, pulling him closer.
40:08I know.
40:08And in the frozen north, surrounded by dragons and love, our saga was finally perfect.
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