2 moons before the wedding
King Trahaearn smiled at his daughter even though he knew the torment and possible anger in her green/blue eyes, but she never said anything to him. He knew that he would need to sign the treaty that he had made, and he truly hoped that his daughter would truly be happy with the Viking. He left his daughter in the garden as he began to make his way to the throne room, the council was said to be there, and he knew that the Vikings would be as well. "Presenting his majesty King Trahaearn." The royal announcer shouted as the king entered the room, everyone's eyes turned to him holding emotions that he could not determine. Next to his throne was his son Brioc standing tall and with one hand on the hilt of his sword in case of any attacks against the king or himself.
The king sat down and looked towards his council on one side, and the Vikings on the other, axes in their hands at the ready, thirsty for blood. "I have called you all here today in the case of a treaty between this kingdom and these Vikings." King Trahaearn stated causing the council to begin to mutter and look at Ulf and his men with pure disgust in their faces. "Why my lord? We cannot trust these heathens." One of his councilmen questioned as he spit in the direction of Ulf. "They are here for payment just like they do with other parts of the country. Something we do not have." "Then we can raise the taxes and gain more." "Yes, I agree. Raise the taxes." Another councilmen stated. The king looked towards Ulf and his men and to his surprise they were calm and quiet letting these council members shout and argue amongst themselves.
"Why cant we give them what we have?" A third member inquired. "And then what Lord Deryn, have them come back but this time raid our people?" Prince Brioc questioned as he glared at the short man. "No, no, that is not what I.." "Then what? Please explain to us what else we should do?" Prince Brioc cut Deryn off angry at the thought of having the country raided. "ENOUGH!" Trahaearn shouted as he abruptly stood up, "I have already discussed what to do with Ulf here, and he has agreed. However, I need your cooperation as well with this treaty." Trahaearn stated sternly. "What is the treaty then sire?" The bishop spoke up. "Ulf and Princess Tegwen will marry in now 2 moons time. With this alliance, they will take what we have for gold and silver, as well land, opportunities for trading; they will also have our support if ever needed. However, the marriage will be done by their traditions and not ours." The king finished causing gasps and snickers from both sides. "And if we cooperate they will leave taking our princess.."
"She is not yours; she is mine!" Ulf suddenly shouted as he came face to face with the bishop after cutting his sentence off. He was angry, she is not theirs, she is his intended, his chest heaved rapidly, and fire was seen in his eyes. Suddenly a hand was placed onto his shoulder, "Bróðir róa þig." (Brother calm yourself) Sigurd whispered into his friend's ear. "Yes, once the marriage is complete then they will be on their way, and no blood shall be shed." King Trahaearn stated as he continued to stare at the two men. "We will have the treaty signed the day Tegwen will marry. Bishop Brannock you will be a witness to this as will you Lord Deryn. Understood?" Trahaearn stated as he glowered at his men, waiting for them to disobey. "Yes sire." They all said at the same time. "Good dismissed." Trahaearn said as he sat back down. The Vikings bowed in respect and left before the king's council, and the king and his son were the only ones left in the room.