Page 38 of Agnarr's Jarlin
“Já, we love to dance. There is music and dancing after every newly mated pair’s announcement. You and I missed out on that tradition by choosing each other in Niflfýri,” he said softly, “Usually there is a big celebration when Elska mates—or any mates—choose each other.”
“Ah, I see,” I said. “Well then, heck yes to music and dancing!”
The elders looked a little puzzled at my language but seemed to understand my agreement. It was at this moment that a handsome orc, looking to be about Agnarr’s age, walked into the longhouse and sat down in Magna’s seat, without commentary. All the elders looked at him as if waiting for him to speak.
“Hello,” he said, his voice cracking. He cleared his throat and tried again, “Hello, I am apparently the new elder representing the smiths, I’m Skaard.”
Skaard looked a little nervous being at the elders’ table, and I wanted to assure him that he was welcome, based on what Magna had said. “Skaard, what are your feelings about the human women joining the tribe?”
“I think it is our duty to take in any refugees, regardless of what they can offer the tribe. This is obviously something my father and I disagree on,” Skaard said, shifting in his seat uncomfortably.
“I appreciate your acceptance and your support, especially given what it cost you personally,” I said.
“Thank you, Jarlin Piper, for acknowledging the cost. My family has been torn apart by this. My youngest brother is planning to leave with my father within the next viká. I can’t bear to think how our mother would handle this. Thankfully, she isn’t here to see all of this ugliness,” he explained solemnly.
“I am glad to have you with us, Skaard. I hope you are able to find a mate through this process, human or otherwise,” I said.
Skaard gave me the briefest of smiles, before forging forward, “I am sure I interrupted a conversation, please continue.”
“Actually, I think we were just finishing,” I said, looking around the table. “A celebration and formal introduction of the human women in one week?”
“Já, one vika,” Astrid said.
“You’ve forgotten something,” Bram piped up.
I looked at him in surprise, “Oh?”
“Já. I assume the humans will want to look their very best for this occasion?” he asked.
“Yes, I suppose that is true,” I agreed.
“I would be willing to send some of the tailors to help dress the females. Free of charge, of course,” he said genially.
“That would be lovely, Bram. Truly, the human women will appreciate it beyond measure. I know most of them will have never had a custom-made gown,” I said.
“I am happy that our community will be able to provide for them,” he responded.
“Well, if that settles all of the plans, I would like to inform them of the tribe's decision,” I said.
“Yes, yes, by all means,” Astrid said. “Meeting adjourned, everyone off to work on their own preparations for the celebration,” she directed.
I stood and looked at Agnarr. He stood as well but didn’t grasp my hand.
“I have some matters to attend to with Elder Osif, are you alright to meet with the humans on your own?” he asked.
“Of course,” I murmured, knowing full well that my intention was to run to them with the news.
“Perfect,” he said, before pulling me into a rough embrace.
AGNARR
I watched as Piper left the longhouse before approaching Osif. He remained, as if he knew I would want to speak with him. When it was just the two of us in the longhouse I asked, “What plans have you made for our new home?”
“Jarlin Piper has requested that I keep those secret. I will honor her request,” he said, tone serious.
“Can I add an additional request?” I asked.
“So long as it doesn’t interfere with Jarlin Piper’s wishes, I am happy to accommodate yours.”