He sat there watching the flame. There were no other sounds but the crackling of the wood and Toothless' snoring. He'd been out here two days now and not a thing. No ships, and no dragon. Under other circumstances, it might have been a waste of time. But he needed this now. He needed to decide on his next course of action.
She had rejected him. He saw it on her face. She didn't even say anything, except what a horrible thing he had done. Well, it was… he was sorry for it. He wished he could take it back, but the deed was done. Now Elsa knew… and she… she… Och! He wished he hadn't told her, but no, -it was the right thing. He accepted her judgment. Now, he had to pick up the pieces, and move on…
But what would he do? The smart move would be to go ahead and marry Gjaflaug. He didn't love her, but maybe with time… She had been coming around. Thanks to Elsa. But then again, it had been the girls' own choice to get on Biscuits' back. He had seen her watch the dragons with curiosity. She had asked questions. It wasn't lost on him that maybe his chance was gone, and he should just knuckle under and do what was right for the tribe and the archipelago as a whole. As Chief, and as… King, he wouldn't have the luxury of finding someone he loved… again… Yes, this made, -sense, -but…
And even though she said she would, he himself would bridge the gap… Go and talk to Röngvaldr. Get them to listen, to stop killing the dragons. It was his duty after all. It would settle things in the islands. Make them more open to the idea of unification… He hoped. That would probably settle things with the tribe as well… until Heather returned…
Ach! There was the other fly in the ointment. She could be here any day now. She would be upset with him. He wondered after the business with Reifnir. Would she see he had no part in this? She was smart enough to figure it out. Unless being away changed her. Life was different for an heir and Chief. They were encouraged to spend time off-island. It made sense in the long run. To talk to your neighbors and allies. Strengthen ties and friendships. Getting off-island gave one a wider perspective on the greater world around them. And seeing foreign lands… seeing how things were done on the Mainland, or in the Anglish Isles… gave one… ideas… It was easier with the dragons. He remembered his Dad being gone for weeks at a time, visiting allies. With dragons, he could spend time with two tribes, and be home for evening tea!
Toothless stirred underneath him. His hind leg twitched, a wing fluttered slightly. He guessed he was dreaming… about what, he couldn't say. He growled softly, and popped his jaws. Maybe he was dreaming of fishing… Thank the Gods for him! He was about the only reason he hadn't completely broken over this mess. His family, his mother… she had offered encouragement. But the darkness had started creeping in again. He had to get away. He had to think this through.
He had come back later that evening. Everyone had mostly turned in for the night. He had seen Elsa the next day in passing, as he was headed for the forge. That look she gave him was… He didn't want to think about it. He had seen her again at the Great Hall for the evening meal. She did not join him at the main table. Instead, she sat with her people, and… Eret. She seemed to be in good spirits, and had talked to him most of the evening. He felt he should be angry, maybe a bit, -jealous even. But now, it didn't seem to matter much. She was lost to him, and he should just get over it, and move on…
His chest clenched. But why? He had been fully prepared for this kind of reaction. Och! He was an idiot! He should have told her while they were still in Arendelle. It still may have stung, but… At least he, -she would have known. Maybe she wouldn't have followed him… up here… for nothing… His chest clenched again. He knew why. He loved her… But, she… She, felt differently now, he was sure of that at least. He hadn't seen her at all the next day, nor Gjaflaug. They had apparently left early in the morning. He had gotten word from Trófastr that a watch was needed at the island. He volunteered himself. He waited as long as he could, he needed to get there in time to set up camp before nightfall. They didn't return before he left.
He sat here now. He planned to be out here for another day at least, maybe two. Until a new team came out. He had enough provisions to last him. And he had Toothless. He shifted his weight. His camp was on the inside of the volcano, on a high ledge. There was an opening that led outside. The fire would be hidden from the outside, and they would be sheltered from the weather. He got up after a few moments and walked through the short tunnel and stopped at the entrance.
He looked out. Nothing! Nothing but empty ocean, and empty skies. The moon was half-full. There was enough light, but nothing. He tried to make sense of it. Maybe the dragon had been here, but it wasn't now. So, where was it? There were so many islands that could possibly hold it. But only a few of them were volcanoes. He wasn't sure if it had to be a volcano. And a search of all of them would take time… and he wasn't sure how much time they had… So many questions…
This was where the ships from the south would be helpful. Given the current situation, he couldn't rely on them. They would probably be sent back as soon as they got here. Meaning they were on their own. He started thinking of plans to send out riders from all the allied tribes. Maybe two teams from each… Search in all directions… Leave no island untouched. He brought out his notebook. They should search the islands in the archipelago first. Then expand it after, that should eliminate any surprises. He made notes. How many teams, what kind of dragons, provisions. He calculated time away against time needed. He wondered if Thuggory had started on that ship yet.
They had taken a couple they had captured from Dragos' fleet, and gone over it from stem to stern. He had made drawings. Instead of carrying weapons, there could be spaces made for dragons. Such a ship would be helpful here, especially as the search expanded. They could use the ship as a base, as they searched farther and wider. The ships from Corona, they seemed well suited for this too…
Ahhh, Corona! He wished he could see that place again. And especially Rapunzel. She would help him make sense of this. He was pretty sure Eugene would be among those aboard one of those ships heading their way. But, after they found out what he did… Would they reject him too? He sighed heavily. Probably… The might even have some choice words with him on Elsas' behalf. Not that they had done, -anything to soil her honour. -not, really…
Their session at the nest had been a little… heated. It was the closest they had gotten yet. It took all his strength not to take her then and there. She had been, very eager. And he had been more than willing… Och! These thoughts were doing him no good! He had made his choice, and it was a good one! The best one! If they had… and given the current situation, well… It wouldn't be good for either of them…
He sighed again. The Gods still hated him, it was obvious now. His chest clenched again. He stuffed those feelings down. They would do him no good. From here on, he would do the sensible thing… He would focus on settling matters here in the archipelago. He would stop by the Murderous tribe, and request a meeting with Röngvaldr. Aye, and Niúsi. Get his wedding set up. When he and Gjaflaug were good and married, he'd set the wheels in motion for the unification of all the tribes in the archipelago. He would be King, or High Chief, or whatever title they deigned to give him. He would do it. He would do it for the dragons. He would do it for peace…
He turned and walked down the short passageway. He picked out his bedroll, and brought it over to where Toothless was sleeping. As he was smoothing out the fur, something dropped out of his armor. It was the crystal. He looked. It glowed a faint, pale blue. His image was gone. Her image was still there. The look on her face was sad. The point of light in her chest flickered faintly. What exactly did it mean? Yes, she was more than likely sad, as was he. He never knew a breakup to be a very joyous occasion. But what? Did it make sense to even hold on to this anymore? Maybe not. But he would, until Elsa… left. His chest jolted. NO! He couldn't… He, -shouldn't hold on to these foolish notions! He would set things in motion on his way back to Berk…
He finished setting up his bed. He nestled into Toothless' side. The warm, familiar feeling came to him. The dragons' heartbeat and slow breathing signified sleep. But sleep did not come easily…
He stood there on the deck, looking out over the sea. Wondering what kind of business they'd gotten themselves into. Elsas' letter had said something about a conspiracy, but they'd had it mostly figured out. It was the word "mostly" that had him worried. A lot of times, when you thought you had something like this figured out, was the time it was sprung on you. And sometimes it wasn't what you thought…
Eugene sighed. At least she "sounded" happy in her letter. And at least they were together. They would figure it out. He wasn't completely sure about Hiccup, but he knew Elsa was really smart. This plan was ingenious! A group of ships from the south, just sailing around their islands, would be a terrible distraction to whoever was opposing them. It could even cause resources to be spent on figuring out who they were and what they were doing up there. It would buy them time, and maybe even cause a slip-up. Incredible! And even more incredible was that Anna had thought of it in the first place!
He thought of her in that moment. It was good to see her come into her own. Elsa had said she had it in her, and by the Gods, she was right! She had been struggling at first, but with the help of the family, she was doing better than expected. It was kind of sad to see her so serious at times, but she had managed to keep her bright disposition intact.
A now-familiar squawk brought him out of his thoughts for the moment. The tiny dragon padded up to him, pausing at his feet. He smiled. She then proceeded to climb up his leg, across his back, and finally perched on his shoulder. He offered her a chin scratch. She purred in contentment. Anna had been worried about them flying all the way back to Berk on their own, so she had them take the ships back. He chuckled to himself. Her children and what ever kind of pet they ever had would be terribly spoiled. If there were messages to be sent, they could use the dragons. He had insisted they use the birds instead, but she was right, pigeons couldn't breathe fire!
It was amazing! He had met Toothless while they were in Corona, but his time with him was limited, thanks to this blasted ankle that was still giving him trouble. But he was so smart! Who knew? They had thought them gone from the world. Apparently, they were thriving far up north, away from, -people…
Maybe, that was it… Magic, dragons… Maybe their time was, -ending? The world was, -changing. Many people he'd spoken to felt the same way. Rapunzel felt this way too. Maybe that was the thing with Elsa and Hiccup. Only time would tell… If it was, the world would be a sadder place for it, he was sure of that!
Now they were sailing into the heart of dragon territory. The crew had been told what to expect when they got there. There were some fearful looks. He hoped they would send somebody out when they got close. He knew the truth, but he wasn't very confident that he would be able to avoid any dragon-related conflicts. Maybe the little Terrors would help in that regard, but he wasn't sure. Maybe even Elsa or Hiccup would come out themselves. He couldn't quite believe it! Elsa… with a dragon! She was scary powerful sometimes with her magic. But add a dragon to the mix? The mere thought made him shiver. Rapunzel had been so mad when she found out! He chuckled to himself.
He looked out over the water again. He missed his wife. Not that he would mention that to anyone… but he did. He missed her touch, and her smell. He missed the conversations they'd have. Both verbal and, -physical. She was his best friend. He really wanted to bring her along, but after the whole pirate incident, Mom and Dad were being a little protective of her. He couldn't blame them. But still, he wished she was here.
Someone cleared their throat. He turned around to see Lieutenant Zahlford. He announced that dinner was to be served in a little while. He thanked him and made his way to his cabin to change clothes. He was having his meal with the officers tonight. He was not really looking forward to it. Captain Wilkerton was a good sailor, and a fine officer. He was just a little too stuffy for his taste. He couldn't exactly fault the man for wanting to keep the professional facade. Good discipline was a key to maintain order aboard ship. But they were going to be spending at least three more weeks together… He could, lighten up a bit… Every once in a while…
The meal done, he sat in his cabin going over some paperwork. A Royal Proclamation, signifying Berk as an ally of Corona, just a formality really. Some trade agreements, and other documents. Their written orders. He made sure everything was in order… for like the umpteenth time! He was so bored! It was times like these he missed Rapunzel. They would sit quietly and talk. Either on a chair in the great room, or in the bathtub, with each other. Sometimes, they wouldn't talk at all. Just be with each other. At the end of the day. After all the noise and hubbub of being a Royal, he enjoyed the quiet time they shared.
He put the papers away and readied himself for bed. He wondered if he would get a dragon of his own on arriving. Rapunzel wouldn't let him hear the end of it, if he did. He chuckled. He couldn't presume, but it was something he wondered about since finding out who Hiccup really was. And hearing Rapunzel describing it, it was definitely something he wanted to try! He crawled into his bed. Warm thoughts of his lovely wife, her laugh, her touch… had him fast asleep…
The boat bumped up against the dock. As soon as it was secured, he jumped off. His friend was nowhere in sight. He wasn't surprised. He hadn't announced his visit. But there were matters of import to be discussed. He walked up the dock. If he wasn't here, or off Chiefing somewhere, he would be at the Great Hall. It would also be an excellent excuse to try some of the superb ale they brewed here while he waited.
The Chiefs' son met him on the way. Young Tárr apologized for his fathers' absence. It was quite alright. He left to fetch him to the Hall. The boy was showing great promise as a future chief. His father had confided in him his worry. The boy was listenin' too much of the stories from around the islands. About Chief Haddock of the Hooligans, and his impossible victory over the dragons, and the end of the war. And of his defeat of this Drago, whoever he was.
Ahhh, but the children always wished to outdo their parents. Tárr had spoken of gathering a great number of dragons, and conquering the mainland, or seeking out a dragon queen, and defeating the beast! He was sure that was not what Röngvaldr had in mind. But that's what he was here for. To find out what he thought, and maybe try to help him make a decision.
The boy reminded him of the times when he and his father were young lads. Playing about at the gatherings. They would talk of taking up the sword, and defeating all the tribes in the archipelago. Becoming Chief among chiefs! But the dragons were always in the mix. They would play at fighting them until they were all gone. They would be heroes! With many songs sung about them and their deeds!
But things were different now. Young Chief Haddock had taken care of the dragon problem. And not in a way that anyone had thought. Now the dragons were pets, or -companions, as he had heard told. And through them, it was making Berk, and those allied with them, a true force to be reckoned with! Now with talk of a great kingdom coming together around them, the old ways just didn't make sense anymore.
But with no dragons or vikings to fight, what would they do? Except for the occasional squabble between tribes, and the dragons being a mere nuisance… What? This was the question he had been asked most lately. What were they to do with themselves? Become farmers? Traders? Raise livestock to be sold? Maybe he would raise this question to Chief Haddock. If the boy fancied himself King over them all, maybe he had the answers, or at least, ideas…
Maybe he should also ask this Lady Kirsten what she thought on the matter. The girl seemed smart as a whip! He was wary of her at first. He couldn't discern the true nature of her visit. He suspected she might be the one… but no, Gjaflaug was with her. If it was her the Haddock had rejected the young girl for, they would be at each others' throats! He was fairly sure of that! Still, she had mentioned she was staying on Berk for the time being… And no, she hadn't said anything about Chief Haddock, even when prodded…
He was about to climb the steps that led to the doors, when he noticed a group of men standing near a house in the square. One man in particular stood out. He was large, even for a viking. But his clothes and his armor told a different story. His left arm was curiously armored, and hung at his side. He had long dark brown hair that hung in plaits down his back. His eyes… his eyes were dark brown, or black. Black as the pit. And just as cold… He thought he might ask his friend who the strangers were, but shrugged it off. Nowadays, the archipelago drew all sorts of people from all over.
He went inside and ordered a mug of ale. He sat and drank, and wondered after this Kirsten girl. Just who was she? She told him she was an emissary from… Corona! That was it! He'd never heard of it. But then he had not sailed much past the borders of the islands. She said she bore trade proposals for Berk from down south, but wanted to visit the other islands. To see if there were any more tribes willing to offer up something for trade. It made sense. He imagined it a long voyage from wherever this kingdom was. So while they were here, they might as well see if other items might be had.
Something was off though. Something about this young woman… he couldn't put his finger on it. She, -had a… presence about her, the way she carried herself… Sure, she was beautiful, and smart! He imagined she'd give ol' Konall a run for his money! Maybe something, -more than a mere noblewoman… But no, she wasn't dressed at all like a noblewoman. Not that he'd heard of. The women down there dressed in fine linens, and some other kind of cloth… silk! That's what they called it! He'd never seen it. This woman dressed like one of them… but still…
He was jolted out of his thoughts as Röngvaldr came through the door at that moment, looking a little bedraggled. He was soaked up to his waist, and the rest of him looked plenty wet as well. He wondered what had happened now.
"Greetings Bergulfr! What brings ye here?" He asked.
"OI! Do I now need an excuse ta come over for some of this fine ale ye have?" He smiled.
"No, no… But it's not like ye ta leave Marta alone for very long!" He chuckled.
"Ah so! Ye think it hard for me ta leave hearth and home just for a drink with a friend?" He smiled.
"NO! I'm not sayin' that at all!" He caught the roll of his eyes. He chuckled. It was good to see him smile. He'd not been doing that a lot lately, so he heard. He was having issues with the dragons again. Which reminded him…
"What the Hel happened to ye? Did ye go for a swim before ye came here?" Röngvaldr immediately scowled.
"Ach! Dragons! There's a bunch o' them taking up in our harbor! We killed some of them, but the devils keep comin' back! Thunderdrums! They be causing all kinds of trouble! They're eating all the fish! We canna get a boat out without them knockin' holes in them! Nasty beasts! And just the other day, there was a whole flock o' dragons, come flyin' in here and stole a third of our livestock! Yaks, goats, sheep… It was almost like before…" He seemed to be caught up in a thought just then. He looked askance. This was troubling indeed! He had an idea, but he wasn't sure if he would like it…
"Perhaps ye should send a message to that Trollguts boy, Dogsbreath. I, -hear he's a fair hand wi' the dragons. Maybe he could help ye?" He scoffed. Maybe he should push…
"No? Well then, how 'bout the Haddock? No one knows more abou' them than him, they say." He cast a sidelong glance, and rolled his eyes.
"Sure! And he'll have us dancin' and singin' with 'em in no time! BAH! I say kill them all! They're naught but a nuisance! They should be done away with! And good riddance says I, when they're gone!" It was his turn to roll his eyes.
"Now Rong, Yer no' lookin' at this right. Would ye rather have us go back to the old ways? When they'd be showing up two or three times a month, burnin' evr'thing, killin' folks? It tha' what ye want?" He gave him another sidelong glance. There was his answer.
"No, But I'll be cold and in the ground before I let some, -whelp of a Hooligan tell me how ta run my tribe!" He shook his head. He was as stubborn as they come!
"Aye, the boy's not his father, sure! But… Rong… Things are… changin', here in the islands. The way I see it, -if we don' change wi' 'em, we'll get left behind!" He scowled furiously.
"OH AYE! Then the little shit will come ou' here and burn us all! To the ground he would! Just like the Beserkers!" He shook his head again. Just then Tárr entered the hall and came towards them. There was mud up to his knees. And in his hair. His clothes were drenched as well.
"Father? They're back… The dragons, we, -we chased them off, but they came right back into the harbor." Röngvaldr scowled, and grabbed his chin. He was obviously thinking deeply. The boy shot him a glance. He straightened slightly, and spoke.
"Father? P, -perhaps we should use the lower harbor for now, un, -until we can, figure this out…" He seemed to think on it some more. He then sighed heavily, and nodded. From what he could tell, this would be a minor inconvenience but, -this wasn't his island. The boy turned to go… Röngvaldr spoke again.
"Tárr? Make sure the dryin' racks get moved as well, and tell Dómaldr ta be careful wi' the skiffs! We canna afford ta lose any more!" The boy nodded and turned to go…
"And Tárr?" He paused for a breath. "That, -that's a fine idea, son! Thank you!" The boy smiled so wide, he feared the top of his head would fall off. Hmmm… Maybe… They both watched the boy leave. He turned to Röngvaldr.
"Rong? Ifn' we keep ta the old ways, there'll be nothin' left! Your boy there, he wants so badly ta please ye. Ta show ye the sort of chief he'll be someday… What would ye give, aye? For him ta have tha' chance?" He kept staring at the door Tárr went out of. He was thinking deeply. His expression changed. He looked at him, and for the first time since they were children, he saw fear, and uncertainty. He opened his mouth, but no sound came out. He looked away, closing his eyes tightly. After a few more moments, he turned back. A pained look on his face.
"What… what am I to do? He… he's turned the girl down… Gjaflaug?" He nodded.
"She was here today, on my island!" Röngvaldrs' eyes went wide. "Aye! She flew in on a dragon! Her, and some girl who called herself Lady Kirsten. Said she was an emissary, from down south…" He frowned.
"G, -Glaflaug? Riding a, -dragon?" He nodded. Röngvaldr looked away, frowning. He reached up and rubbed his chin. He didn't know Niúsi. Not personally. He knew him to be fiercely loyal to the tribe, and to Röngvaldr. For someone who was as loyal as she, and as anti-dragon as the rest of them, it was food for thought. He looked down, then fixed him with a look.
"But, -but with no marriage… How, how will there be a, -guarantee he'll cooperate? How do I know he won' descend upon us? Aye? Fly a whole flock of his dragons o'er here, and take us all?" He nodded. Is that what he thought? Then, he knew what he should do… He may not like it, but he made his choice…
"Look, I have… Spoken to him. The Haddock?" He paused, gauging his reaction. He knotted his brow a little. He opened his mouth, but closed it again. Curiosity took over in his eyes.
"He is but a boy. And he is definitely NOT his father… But Rong, he doesn't want war! He, he only wants the killin's ta stop! Do ya know? He told me he dinna want ta be King, ifn' this kingdom we hear tell comes abou'? And, -he took a knee! Right there in front of me he did! Apologized for tha' mess wi' the Beserkers!" He scowled harder. It was still hard for him to believe!
"Do you… can we… trust 'im?" He wasn't sure himself, but…
"Well, he is ol' Stoicks' son… We all knew him ta be honourable, even though we fought like cats an' dogs… And he was a good Chief. Young Hiccup… well, we've all heard the stories. He's shaping up ta be one of the greatest!" Röngvaldr rubbed his chin in thought, looking away. He turned back after a moment or two.
"Can ye… Will ye… give him my regards… for his father? I, -I had great respect for the man as well…" He smiled. There was hope for them yet. Now for a final, little push!
"I imagine he'll come 'round, askin' ta speak wi' ye. And I suspect, it'll be soon… Just… Listen to him. That's all I can say. Ye can make up yer own mind…" And there it was. Röngvaldr looked away again, thinking. He was glad he was able to at least steer him in another direction. He had made up his mind to follow the Haddock. It seemed the right choice to make. He would hate to see his childhood friend get left behind. And all over a possible misunderstanding nobody understood anymore. He had heard several versions of how the Hooligan-Lavalout feud began. In truth, nobody really knew for sure. And with things the way they were, a change here was in order as well… Or so he thought.
They spoke for a while longer. As old friends and fellow Chiefs. Politics, growing the food, fishing. Conversation flowed easily, until he realized it was getting late. If he didn't want to be skinned this night, he'd best get home.
They said their farewells on the docks. He had dreaded this a little. He wasn't sure how he would take this. But now he felt better than he had in a while. The men pulled at their oars. He looked back one more time. There was someone… that man! The one he had seen earlier. He stood behind Röngvaldr, some distance off. The look he gave him… it sent a chill down his spine. He'd not thought to ask about him… maybe he should have…
He woke to bright, bright light against his eyelids. It wasn't quite right. He knew he'd fallen asleep in a cave. He opened his eyes. He blinked. A white haze, then blinking again, things came into focus. He was in a large meadow, or at the edge of it. He propped himself on his elbows… The vision seemed to expand. The trees, that rock… that one… It was familiar, but… different.
He looked again. The trees formed a circle, but not an even one. He half-remembered it… And… That other formation, that… rock… nearly flat… Big enough for… two… dragons. Familiar, but something was off. Aside from the fact he had fallen asleep… somewhere else… The trees, the grass… He was lying on his fur, but, the grass… There was a charred bare spot… where they… they…
It hit him like a bolt of lightning. This was… It was, -Astrids' Preserve! They, they had found it that… one day. That summer after… after, Drago… He was struggling… He needed to get away… She suggested a long patrol. They were flying high above it. He had caught it out of the corner of his eye… This clearing… it, -looked like a silhouette of… her head! Braid and all! Those rocks… that peculiar clump of bushes… He, he had dropped down for a closer look… But she made straight for it.
This was where… where… A huge lump formed in his throat. Where they had first confessed their love for each other. Where they would come after a long day, or week, or, -whatever! Where they explored their feelings, -and, -themselves… It was their first stop after being properly married… He had checked all the maps he could find… ancient registries… It was one of his wedding gifts to her. It was off-limits to anyone fearing a near-fatal beating… His eyes started to sting… the lump in his throat grew larger. He had not been there since… saying goodbye…
Another flash of light. He closed his eyes against it. He opened his eyes and looked down. There was another pair of feet there, encased in fine leather boots topped with white fur. His gaze traveled upwards. Two powerful, yet slender legs. That skirt! It was the same… but it was white too. The studs and tiny skulls glistened like gems! A white tunic. The caplet… it was trimmed in the whitest fur he had ever seen! His, -her axe was slung over one shoulder. The other hand was on her hip. Her hair, -that… face! Her eyes were still that deep, dark blue. They seemed to glow now. Her hair seemed a lighter shade of blond… A corner of her mouth curled slightly as he made the connection… There was no mistaking…
"As… Astrid?" The lump in his throat was choking him now. His eyes filled up. He spun around, winding up on his knees, then sat on his heels. He looked down.
"Hello Hiccup!" There was that lilting voice! Gods! he, he…
"Astrid! I, -I've missed you… so very -very much!" He could barely get the words out. He chanced a glance upwards. She smiled that sweet smile… Tears were flowing like a river…
"I know Hiccup! I've missed you too! I've, been watching you…" Did that mean… She saw… that?
"Astrid? I am so… so very sorry about what… happened over there. I, I was… upset! I, -I didn't want you to leave…" He heard her huff. He looked up again. She smiled and shook her head.
"Don't be sorry, Hiccup! What happened… wasn't… supposed to happen. You, -carried out their wrath! It is nothing to be ashamed of." Ok, he understood… a little, but…
"Astrid, It, -it's cost me… I don't know… I, I'm not… sure…" She smiled again, and fixed him with a look. It then softened.
"Hiccup? Your… reward is with you. The crystals guide you… But you must do what you were meant to do…" That was… cryptic. He had some ideas, but which one? What was his task? She smiled and shook her head again. He was beginning to feel like a child…
"Hiccup! You have the answers! You always have… You need to trust yourself! Trust your abilities! You are the one, to bring understanding… at, the end…" Again, cryptic… He knew it involved the dragons, and the end? The end of what? The end of the world? His life? What?
She then turned her head away, and looked up at the sky. He detected a slight nod. She turned back to him. She slung her axe down, setting the head on the ground. She placed both hands on the end of the handle. There was a slightly serious look on her face.
"Hiccup? I must go now…"
"NO! -No! Astrid! I, -I want to stay here, with you! -Always!" She tilted her head to the side. A fond smile crept across her face. A glimmer in her eyes…
"No Hiccup! -Not yet! I… wait for you. But it will be a long time before I see you again…" He nodded. He understood… he guessed. She smiled that smile again and turned. She took a couple of steps, then turned back towards him.
"Hiccup? -She loves you Hiccup… Very much!" Her expression seemed to fall a little. She turned and walked away. Everything faded to white, but he still had questions! No! Wait! Astrid!
He bolted straight up. The lump still in his throat, his eyes wet. He buried his face in his hands and sobbed. Astrid! PLEASE! He sensed Toothless shifting. A questioning warble leaving him. He spun around and wrapped an arm around his dragon. It was several minutes before he gathered himself. He lifted off of Toothless, and sat on his heels. The dragon crooned. He looked up, there was concern, but -something else. He probably recognized her name.
"We, -we have, something to do Bud… I don't know… exactly, what it is…" Toothless huffed. Of course they did, silly human! He contemplated her words. What I was meant to do… bring an understanding… at the end… -of what? And, the crystals, -guide me? To… what? He took it out and looked. Even though light was beginning to spill into the cave, it still glowed. A bit more brightly than before. Her image seemed… less sad. She loves me? But she, -they…
They needed to talk. It was a first step, after all. Maybe he had been getting ahead of himself earlier. He would talk to Bergulfr, set up a meeting with Röngvaldr… leave the wedding plans out, -for now. He didn't see a lot of hope there. But he should at least talk to her before he decided anything like that. He stood and walked to the entrance of the cave. The sun was just peeking over the horizon. He heard Toothless shift, then huff. He came up next to him and sat. He looked back. He had lit the fire without being asked. He looked at him and placed a hand on his head.
"Thanks Bud! You are amazing!" He warbled his answer. He reached across, and locked his tailfin.
"Go Bud! Go get your breakfast!" He hopped in place, and nudged him with his shoulder. He then leapt off the ledge. He watched as Toothless glided gracefully down, then shifted into his familiar search pattern. His head darting side to side. He smiled. He loved to watch him hunt. He ducked lower, his head darted into the water. He tossed the fish in the air, and gulped it down.
He looked out to the horizon. The sun was just peeking over it. Coloring the sky with reds, oranges, and a bit of yellow. A new day, full of… possibilities…
He sat now on Dragon Island. It had been a full day. The following team hadn't shown up 'til late morning. Eyarr and Frøydis, a young couple from the Meatheads. They bore a message that Thuggory wanted to speak to him. That was good and well, he had a mind to go there anyway. They started unpacking, and it was fairly obvious that they planned on watching each other. Eh! Let them have it, as long as they weren't too distracted. He wouldn't judge. After all, he had thought of bringing Elsa out there… maybe… in a few days…
Thuggory had been glad to see him. It had been a while. He had news. Elsa and Gjaflaug had been there two days ago. Thuggory was impressed! He had grown fond of her in their talks. And his people had taken a liking to her as well. He had shown her around the island, then had lunch. He said she seemed a little sad, and -distracted. Hiccup told him of their talk, and her reaction. He understood, and offered to talk to her. He was grateful, but that was something he needed to do.
They had then gone to the docks, where an argument had started over the design of this new ship. The keel had been laid, But one builder had wanted to stick to the original design. The other wanted to modify it with flowing lines, like their own viking longboats. Some mudslinging ensued… literally! After a few sketches, and a mug or two of ale, the more flowing lines had been agreed upon. It seemed to work better anyway.
The ship however, would not be ready for some time. It was… aggravating. Maybe by the end of summer… but how much time did they have? Maybe he should head south again. He'd heard of vast shipyards in Greech, and Switcherland, where they built boats year-round. It would be very expensive though… And they still may not get here in time… Frustrating! But what could he do?
He left there, and had gone over to see Bergulfr. He was met by Marta. Her husband wasn't there, and either wouldn't or couldn't say where he'd gone. He didn't press. It was still early in the proceedings. She gave him a short tour, winding up at the smithy. Valtýr had been having a problem with a fitting on the windmills. The man eyed him suspiciously. A few sketches, and judicious use of a hammer, -not on his own skull, had him understanding better. He promised to bring over some of his designs and samples for improved workings of the winches they had been using.
Marta told him of other, smaller issues they'd had. Namely, the Terrors getting into their daily catch of fish. He offered his idea of installing Terror-sized perches around their granaries. Although not foolproof, it had worked wonders on Berk. She had also asked after a Thunderdrum issue. -Somewhere, she had heard they were taking up in an undesirable spot in a harbor. It sounded to him like they were nesting. He offered the only solution that seemed to work. Simply wait until the families left, then sprinkle urine, -dragon urine, on the nests. He chuckled. She had scrunched her face at that. He was glad he didn't have to explain how they found that out…
They had then gone to their Great Hall. He was given a seat at the main table. Where they ate and he chatted with her, and members of the council. Life, dragons, fishing, growing, family… Conversation was not flowing, but it was amiable. Marta mentioned his woman had been there, -and Glaflaug. Very clever… He could see they were a good match. He didn't give her anything, he wasn't, -positive where they stood anymore…
Which brought him to where he was now. So Elsa was still out visiting the islands, as she said she would. Did this mean they were… ok? Had she come to grips with this, or was she merely exploring trade partners for her own kingdom? Did she mean to leave, or… He shouldn't presume, he knew that. But it was puzzling. They should talk first. He wasn't sure if he should go back now. He didn't want to see that look on her face again. He had enough provisions for another couple of days… No, he would rest Toothless for a while. Take a small survey of the dragons here on the island, then head back. He would talk to Elsa, and then… well…
He must have fallen asleep. There was but a few hours of sunlight left. Toothless was sitting at the entrance to the "office" Ears up, and alert. The dragon growled. He was up immediately, he stood beside Toothless and looked out. He couldn't see anything, but Toothless… He knew to trust his senses.
From up above them, Windshear dove down and landed gracefully on the beach, some distance from them. She gave a happy roar and a gurgle. Toothless bounded off, and they greeted each other. She had left the morning he did. He didn't expect her to stay around anyway, but he had hoped… If Windshear was on Berk, he could look after her. And Heather, he knew, would come looking for her. It would be better for him if their… meeting took place in public…
He walked out of the entrance to greet her as well. Both dragons turned to him. He noticed Toothless look up. His expression changed to one of happiness. Just then, Windshear nipped him on the ear. She bounded off, Toothless giving chase… silly dragons…
He then heard a furious roar from behind him. He turned just in time for something to crash into him. He tumbled to the ground. His world was suddenly a tangle of fur, leather, and raven-black hair. Something was pressed across his chest. Instinct took over. He brought his right leg up in front of him and pushed. He kept hold of the rod or staff. His burden went flying off above him. He rolled and got on his feet. Drawing Flame in the process. He pressed the button, but didn't ignite it.
She faced him now. She hadn't changed much. Her hair was a little longer, her clothes were different. In her eyes was the same fire he had seen when she was ready to bash something, or head off in one of her near-suicidal attempts at revenge. It was her, there was no mistaking it…
"Heather!" He shouted. Her face twisted. She let out another furious howl and charged. He was ready… but he was not ready for the speed and ferocity of her attack. She swung, and swung again. He was able to block both attacks. She spun around on her left foot, hauling the axe around for a downward stroke. He ducked down, and met her blade on the downswing.
They locked blades, she was pushing down, he was holding her off trying to get to a point where he could say something, - anything to stop this. She was as strong as he remembered. Maybe stronger! There was fury, and murder in her eyes. He had to stop this, before something happened they would both wind up regretting.
He relaxed fully, for just a split-second, then shoved with all his might. It caught her off guard, but only a little. She took only a few steps back before she renewed her attack. Swinging her axe with the signature Beserker fury. He blocked one blow, then another. Her axe was heavy. Flame was not built for this. The blade was strong, but it was more for show, or gaining a wild dragons' attention. All the more reason to end this…
They locked blades again. He was trying to think, think of a way to… They were shoving against each other. His eyes caught something… He twisted his sword, catching the point of her blade. He pulled, stepping back with his left foot. He flung her to the side, nearly ripping the axe out of her grasp. She took three of four stumbling steps away from him before stopping and turning to face him again.
"HEATHER!" He shouted. "Can we PLEASE, -NOT FIGHT?" He could tell from the twist of her features, it was useless.
"NO! I am NOT listening to ANYTHING you have to say!" She charged again, axe held high. Another blow, then another. She spun around again, this time coming low. He was able to block, just barely. He managed to hook her blade again and tug her in a different direction. Gaining space and separation.
They faced each other again. Something -changed in her features. Her face softened slightly, he was still on guard…
"Heather, PLEASE! -Just let me explain!" She looked down for a moment, then that moment passed. She reached up, and unlocked the weapon. A cold dread crept down his back. He had sparred with Astrid, with her axe… he had learned to hold his own. This was Heathers' weapon, and she was deadly with it.
She spun it around, first in front of her, then behind. Spinning it in one hand then the other. She then tossed it high in the air, then caught it, still spinning. It was a blinding flash of angry, deadly blades. Her face twisted again in that ugly… She was upon him in a flash. One blade, then another, high, then low. He needed to end this… he needed to end this NOW!
He took a half-step towards her… Crazy! He knew, but if he could place himself inside the arc of the blades… She brought the lower end up, catching him with the staff below his ribs. It smarted a bit, but… He managed to get them pushing against each other. He pushed up, then out. Then dropped down and swung. His blade caught the pivot point. That had to be the weakest link… There was a sickening metallic clank. -Something had happened. All that time working with metal in the forge… Something had weakened. Whether it was his blade, or hers, he couldn't say.
She took a step back and renewed the attack. He couldn't give away his strategy. Blocking one blade, then another, he saw an opening. Swinging again, he was able to strike her weapon again, there was a duller clank. Her strategy changed. She stood further away. Her weapon having the longer reach. It was alright with him. The blades took a little longer to reach him, he might be able to… One of her blows slid off his blade, and she stuck one blade in the ground. He ducked down a little, and punched her in the chest.
It took her by surprise. It must have hurt… She attacked again with even more ferocity. She stepped in and pivoted, giving him her back… Crazy! Then she twisted her weapon. She feigned a high attack, then swung her weapon low. He felt the contact… he heard the crack of wood…
He thought she had damaged the handle of her staff. As soon as he took a step back, to reset himself, pain shot up his left leg. She had… she had damaged the cuff of his foot! This was bad… very bad… if he couldn't stand… She spun to face him, blades singing… she was attacking with everything. There was true, blind fury… He had to take another half-step… The pain! Another opening… He closed his eyes, and swung with all his might…
There was a song, a singing of metal… fading in the distance. He opened his eyes. She stood there agape, looking at the two pieces of her now-broken weapon. He glanced down himself. Flame would need serious repair, if not a total rebuild. She brought the two pieces up. Staring in disbelief. Their eyes locked. She knotted her brow, and charged him again, thankfully dropping her weapon.
He instinctively took a step back. There was a smaller crack, and a searing, white-hot pain shooting up his leg to his hip. He faltered, falling back just as she reached him. She grabbed him by the shoulders, and they were tumbling in the gravel. First her on top. He managed to roll her over, only to be met with the searing pain again. They rolled over again. She started pummeling him in the face and neck. He was able to block most of her blows, which were getting weaker and weaker. She scooted a little and started beating his chest. He felt what he thought were raindrops… looking up, he saw her face. Tears were running down her cheeks…
She collapsed, burying her head in his chest. She sobbed, hard. He heard her voice, weak and muffled…
"Why…" The world stopped. He, -he had never seen her… She shifted again, and lifted her torso. Her hair hung down in a matted, dirty, tangled mess. He couldn't see her face. She stood over him for a moment, then turned and stomped off. She took about five or six steps, and stopped.
He propped himself on his elbows, and looked. Her face was in her hands. Her frame shook. He heard a few sobs, and sniffles. She then turned back to face him. His heart broke.
"WHY HICCUP? WHY DID YOU DO IT?" She half-yelled, sobbing. Her voice breaking.
"Because he killed Astrid! -Himself!" She stopped. Her eyes going wide, a look of shock on her face. "And Stormfly too! He slit her throat while she was trying to protect Astrid!" His own face fell. He wanted to spare her this, but that time was past.
"I, -I think he just wanted to capture her… But, -you know Astrid…" She nodded. "But it wasn't just her… Be, -before we flew out that morning, she… told me she was -pregnant…" She went pale. She dropped to her knees. Her hands then came to her mouth.
"I couldn't let it go Heather! He had been terrorizing me my whole life. He 'd been bullying half the archipelago for years! He was hurting my allies purely to get to me! The final straw was when he killed off the Eelslime tribe. -One hundred and eighty men, women and children Heather! He captured their dragons to be slaughtered in some kind of ritual. He managed to capture some bonded ones as well."
She looked askance, then closed her eyes tightly shaking her head.
"I'm -I'm very sorry that happened. I, -I lost control… He said, he, he told me you were with him on this… Even… even when he knew, -even in defeat all he wanted to do was hurt me." She was shaking her head, looking down at the ground. She brought her hands up, and smoothed her hair out of her face. They locked eyes again. He broke again, if it were possible. He wanted to comfort her, but he doubted he could walk. She drew in a ragged breath.
"I've heard it said… I was told, -Dagur was suing for peace, when you attacked unprovoked." He grimaced.
"Heather, you know me better than that!" She scowled.
"DO I? You, -you burned half the island to the ground Hiccup! Nothing will grow there!" She winced, as if he'd hit her.
"Again, I'm sorry Heather!" He frowned, and shook his head. "As soon as I'd heard you were sent away, I knew what was going to happen." He looked again. She looked so, -defeated. He didn't want to pile any more on than necessary.
"Why… why didn't you warn me or try to find me?" She asked.
"I, -we sent four Terrors after you! None of them ever came back!" She frowned, looking at the ground. Deep in thought. She spoke after a few long moments.
"What do you know about this, -Reifnir character?" He scowled.
"He's the youngest son of one of my council members. -I had nothing to do with that. They… the talk has started up again, about unifying the tribes?" She nodded. "I, I guess they saw an opportunity… They -struck some kind of deal with the Lavalouts… to keep themselves in high standing… to gain support, I think." She nodded and looked down.
"You know I will support you, and the other Chiefs will as well. It is your birthright after all. -If you turn things around over there." She looked at him, and her features softened a little. "I -I've already tried to send assistance, but it was turned down. I, -we don't know much about what's been going on there…" She nodded again.
"Well, apparently, I have a mess to clean up!" She stood and walked over to him. Her gaze shifted, and her expression changed. She knelt at his side.
"Oh Gods! Hiccup! Oh! I am so, -sorry!" He sat up, and finally noticed his stump was throbbing. There was a small pool of blood underneath the cuff of his foot. He rolled up his pant leg. The cuff was indeed shattered, and with the springs and fittings… He took out his dagger and cut the leg of his pants. Heather was a bit shocked, but this was an emergency. He undid the straps. He gingerly took what was left of the cuff in his hands and turned it slightly. He hissed against the pain. It wasn't…
"Here, grab the foot, yes! and pull, -slowly!" She did, and more pain shot through his leg. "Do you see any splinters?" She nodded. "Pull those out too." He laid back. She pulled maybe three or four times. It hurt, but when she was done, the leg only throbbed.
"How does it look?" She lifted his leg and looked. After a few moments' examination, she spoke.
"It, -it doesn't look too bad, but you'll need to get it cleaned… Do, -are you and Toothless gonna be OK?" She looked truly concerned.
"We'll manage, I have a spare in my saddlebag." She gave him a look.
"What? You know me! Always, -always carry a spare foot, because, you never know…" She smiled and shook her head, she gave him another look, one he couldn't quite decipher. She stood and removed her shoulder plates, then her chest armor. She pulled at the hem of her tunic, then reached up inside. She undid the knot, and unraveled her breast bindings. Kneeling, she took his dagger, and cut a section off. She wrapped it around his stump. She took another section, and cut it into strips. With those, she secured the bandage.
He sat up, It was a pretty good dressing. They locked eyes, she reached out and touched his shoulder. Her expression hardened after a moment. She stood quickly.
"I, I have to go… Are, are you sure you'll be ok?" He nodded. She turned and put her fingers in her mouth. She whistled loudly. Windshear bounded up, with Toothless in tow. He came up to him, nudging affectionately. Upon sniffing him, he obviously caught the scent of blood… Hiccups' blood! He snarled viciously, and turned to Heather.
"WHOAH! Bud! STOP! She's very sorry, it, -it was an accident! He lied, but he couldn't let him harm her. She apologized and he was placated, -a little. He stood with her help. And after rummaging through the bag found the foot. She walked back to her dragon, packing away her armor. She stopped and stilled for a moment. She then turned and walked up to him. He couldn't quite read the expression on her face.
She placed both hands on his shoulders, and bit her lip.
"Hiccup? I'm, -I'm sorry about Astrid… I, -I should have known…" She looked away slightly, then back. "And, I'm sorry, about your, -foot… Can we… I, -I hope we can… still… be friends." He smiled.
"Of course, Heather, just… you might want to stay away from Berk for a little while." She nodded. He reached up and grabbed her hand, giving it a gentle squeeze.
"I'm sorry too… I, I'm sorry I had to be the one to… do… that." She nodded, then searched his eyes. She then leaned forward, and kissed his cheek. Then wrapped him in a firm hug. She half-whispered in his ear…
"Thank you Hiccup! You've, -you've always been good to me!" He nodded into her shoulder, and squeezed. She took a step back, and placed a hand on his cheek, smiling warmly. She then turned and walked to Windshear. Upon reaching Toothless, she bent down to his level.
"Toothless? I'm really, very sorry! Please, look after him, will you?" He huffed. -Of course he would, you crazy human! She smiled, and leapt on to her dragon. He called to her.
"Heather? May I ask something of you?" She nodded.
"Of course Hiccup! Anything!"
"Don't, -don't kill Reifnir… Not yet! I need him alive, to get my council back in line…" Her mouth curled, she then nodded. She and Windshear leapt into the evening sky. He sat and attached the foot. It was an older design, but it would work. It didn't have a "walking" foot, just the flying one. He didn't have to walk, thank the Gods! His leg was throbbing madly. He needed to get home.
After a few missed turns, and a general re-learning to gently lean, he gave up. He couldn't move the leg without causing pain. He told Toothless it would be up to him to get them back. He wasn't sure about landing when they got there, but they would manage… somehow…
Soon enough, the beacons showed in front of them. He readied for their landing, but forgot, through the pain and his wandering thoughts, to lock Toothless' tailfin. He reached down, the dragon misinterpreted, and lost balance. They landed very heavily. Toothless skidded to a stop, his butt almost flipping over his head. He was thrown off, and landed on his face heavily in the grass. Blackness took over…