Northmen Camp

[Arne]

Arne came over to Valka, and sat close to her.  Turning the bundle carefully, he let Valka see the face of their daughter.  "Our daughter, Valka.  Strong and healthy, as Holmg?r?r said!  She has her mother's hair and good looks, yes?"

[Valka]

She managed a tired smile, full of pride as she stared at the newborn. The red hair...

"That she does. And I know she will have her father's strength and honor." She looked back up to Arne. "We have a child... We were blessed afterall..."

[Arne]

Arne brushed aside a wisp of Valka's hair, and nodded. "She will have her mother's strength and honor, too.  Yes, Valka, we have been blessed.  I think she will do great things in her life, Freya willing!"  He rested his hand on her cheek.  "But you must rest now, Valka.  I will have Holmg?r?r or one of the women bring in a bed for her so that she may be close by your side when you awaken.  I'll be here.  Sleep now, and think of a good name for our daughter in your dreams, yes?"

[Valka]

Valka nodded, but turned to Habren first. Quiet as the lady was, and so strong to have stayed with her through the ordeal. "Thank you," was all the girl said. Her eyes would say everything else.

[GM Craig]

The Lady Habren looks pale and shaken. A trembling hand strokes Valka's hair smooth, and Habren's jaw quivers when she speaks. "As homey as this place is, I cannot have you recover here. I will go now, and arrange for a litter to take you to the manor." As shaky as her voice is, it is clear she will brook no argument. "I will go now and arrange things."

She struggles to her feet, for she herself is great with child.

[Arne]

Arne almost raised his voice in protest, then stopped.  There was no insult being offered, after all, and clearly it meant much to the Lady Habren.  Her spirit would have made any Northman proud, and Arne found himself greatly admiring her.

He moved quickly over to Lady Habren and gently helped her to rise to her feet.  "I see why Sir Rodric and your people think so highly of you, my Lady.  We would be honored if you took my wife under your house's care until she recovers.  I will have some of my best warriors escort you and your party for your return to Falt."  Arne's decision was adamant, although the smile softened his tone.  Lowering his voice, he added, "And please, milady, fear not.  You have a kind and just heart, and I am certain that your Jesus will smile upon you.  And I think Freya, too, if you'd not take offense to that."


OOC:  I'll see that our senior and junior vets are assigned as an honor/protection guard for Lady Habren on her trip back.  Also, Arne's going to borrow a horse and make his way to Sarum.  He had to recover his horses, and try to make amends for the damage he caused.   

[Valka]

Valka was in no condition to argue with the lady of the manor. "You are too kind to us," was all she said and laid back to rest.