The city of Bergen sat slightly to the west of the palace, though they both are ports, it was almost like going to two different locations entirely. Bergen palace was very large, a very large two-story longhouse sat in the middle, surrounded by smaller turf houses, stone houses, and smaller longhouses. At the gates of Bergen palace, a large stable, and many of the kings guard.
“Welcome,” they greeted, as Sigurd and Bjorn stepped onto the fresh mud - it had clearly rained here some time ago.
Sigurd, followed by Bjorn made their way to the great feast hall. It was nearly empty, besides two women. Both with long blonde hair and brown eyes, clearly favored daughters of King Harold the Third.
“Sigurd!” One of them called, getting up and running to hug him with a large smile on her face. This woman was Eva, the only sibling who treated him well.
The other woman, Hilda, merely waved from her spot at one of the large tables. “Princess Eva and Princess Hilda,” Bjorn greeted, bowing.
“How was your journey?” Eva asked curiously. Though Sigurd did not smile back at her, the corners of his mouth were slightly upwards.
“It was fine. Did it rain earlier?”
Eva nodded. “Only for a bit. I’m afraid though Lady Hanna has not arrived yet. Her arrival is expected to be today. Oh Bjorn, it is so lovely to see you again. How is your health? It is not declining, right?” She asked, her smile fading.
Bjorn shook his head. “I have-”
“I heard of this medicine from Rome if you fall ill, please let me know and I will have someone fetch it for you. I-”
Just then, King Harold the Third walked into the feasthall from the outer door that lead to the royal chambers. He stared at Sigurd while Bjorn quickly bowed to him, as did Eva, turning to do so.
“My son, you have arrived.” His expression seemed a bit grim.
“As I said I would.”
Harold nodded along, his long blonde hair was pulled back into a braid that hung down to his waist. “As a good son such as yourself should.”
Sigurd nodded, as silence followed. The fire could be heard crackling. The talks from people outside of the feast hall could be heard speaking. The wind could be heard turning. Hilda stared daggers into the eyes of Sigurd and Bjorn. But no one here dared say a word until the King spoke.
He smiled. “Well, I don’t suppose we should have a feast to celebrate the marriage of another of my son’s?”
Eva’s joyous smile returned, she looked back at Sigurd with happiness, who now looked at the floor. “Of course,” she said. “The wedding of Sigurd of Clan Bergen is a very important event.”
A tall man, certainly a servant, ran inside of the feast hall. He breathed heavily. “Lady Han-na… has arrived.”
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