The clang of clashing weapons still rang in her mind as the Danes carried themselves from the field of battle to their camp.
They had faced the English knowing that there had been little chance for the Danes to be victorious on their own but no Dane would withdraw from a fight, whatever the chances.
Ish sighed, stubbornly ignoring the pain in her side and in her leg and the drying blood that stiffened her clothes. She left her husband to his council of war to help any injured that were in need of treatment. It was better if she made herself useful, it would let her think less.
The stories around the campfire that evening were of bravery and of knowing that the day of reckoning was yet to come.
This was the spirit that had drawn her to stay, fighters - not without their own conflicts - but the worse their odds the closer they became.

A hog was roasting over the fire and mead and beer were being passed around. Ish gathered enough food for a small band of men on a tray and went in search of Maleus and his jarls to remind them that even they would need food. Without a word she set the food in their middle and sat beside the Danish king, listening to their conversations.
It was then that the feeling of disappointment raised it's head, the rational part of her brain knew much better but she could not help her heart. The Queen of the Danes wrapped a golden curl around her finger and bit her lip in annoyance at the conflicting feelings. When I chose to stay and become his wife, I chose against my country. Now I am chosing against the leader of my faith. I never knew how hard this would be...
Covertly, Ish pulled the gold chain over her head and looped it around her wrist, grasping the small crucifix tightly. She knew that God would lend her strength to continue standing by the side that was being wronged in this war.