It was a bright clear day. Medium-sized clouds floated on a slightly stiff breeze. The winds were coming from the south, bringing warmer temperatures. Yes, winter was over with, and spring was getting underway. Soon the planting will begin. And the sheep will need sheared to rid them of their winter coats. The repairs from the winter were nearly complete. With that done, peoples' thoughts turned from survival to getting outside and enjoying the warmer weather.
She tried to enjoy it. She really did… Only, with so much going on, it was hard not to -not think about it. And in truth, when it really came down to it, there was only one thing on her mind… Hiccup. She had slept fitfully. He had stirred a few times during the night. It had woken her up. It was as if he were fighting someone or something in his dreams. She managed to get him to take a bit more broth, and some water.
She tried to remain positive. But she noticed when she got up this morning, his breathing was uneven, and a little ragged. It was a side-effect from being bundled against the fever. The lungs filled with fluid. Left long enough, it could lead to another infection, and then… She didn't want to think about it! The Gothi had come to see him, -Mister Tennance had sailed with the ship. She felt the danger was past. She wanted to trust her knowledge and experience… He was just so damn warm! Coming up on three days now…
And everyone had offered words of encouragement. She was very grateful, and felt entirely blessed that the tribe had accepted her. When she had taken a meal, and when she was out, taking care of a problem that only a chief could… She was offered words of consolation and reassurance. And also blessings on their union. It was more than she could have hoped for. But still…
The thoughts would creep up on her. The mere inkling of them would cause her throat to close up. What would she do? Where should she go? If Hiccup… If he… No! She couldn't think like this! She had to remain positive… To remain strong for the tribe, and for him! She softly chided herself, remembering where her doubt and misgivings had gotten her before… Nothing but guilt piled on guilt, and a lot of worry over nothing as well. He loved her, and she loved him. It wasn't his fault after all. It was merely… fate, that had put them in this predicament. She prayed a silent prayer with every other thought. -And after last night, she would offer words to his father, Stoic the Vast… and also… to Astrid.
Fishlegs was doing what he could to distract her. Which was one other reason they were out here, -distraction. She needed something to get her mind off of some of these things that were pressing her. They needed to talk too, but she felt it could be better if she showed him. He was the resident dragon expert, and Hiccup trusted him. She needed to find out if he had found anything out about her possible connection to Jórunna.
"-So anyway, as I was saying… Nadders can spit fire at just three days old! And by the time they are six weeks, they can produce a flame as hot as an adult! Maybe even hotter! I believe it to be for protection, and defense against larger dragons. Until their spines start to mature. And that won't happen until they are about eighteen to twenty-four months!" It was very interesting.
"So how is the copy of the book of dragons coming along?" She asked him.
"Uhhh, It's, -it's taking a lot longer than I thought. And lately, I haven't had any time to work on it… I hope to have it finished by the end of spring, but, the baby is due then, -So maybe the middle of summer?" He scrunched his face in thought.
"I would very much like to add it to Arendelles' library! It would be a great addition!" She told him.
"Does Arendelle have a large library?" She shook her head.
"Not as large as the one in Pottsmouth, but I'm trying to make it the biggest in my part of the world. I read quite a bit when I was younger, but now, I hardly have the time." He nodded.
"I know! Between all my duties, and well, my wife being pregnant, it's very hard to find time." She nodded.
"Have you thought of a name for the baby yet?" She asked.
"I was thinking Arna, or Agata, if it's a girl… Beimi, or Eirikr, if it's a boy. Ruffnut wants to give the baby a scary name regardless, because, -well, she is scary… sometimes." He said.
"And what, exactly is the purpose of these scary names again?" She had heard, she just wanted confirmation.
"Well, it was believed that a scary name would frighten off Gnomes and Trolls. But the practice is slowly going away, thank the gods!" She nodded and thought for a moment.
"Well, I haven't met any Gnomes personally, but I doubt Trolls would be frightened. In fact, I think it would make them rather curious!" He laughed, turning his head away. But she was serious. He turned back looking at her and stopped.
"Wait… You're serious? You mean you… You've actually met a Troll?" She nodded.
"Indeed Fishlegs! They have been a part of our lives for quite some time! They keep to themselves mostly. And can be rather loud and boisterous, but they are sweet, and give sound advice!" He grabbed his chin.
"Do you think I could meet one… someday?" She nodded.
"Well, there will be a wedding, -someday… And with your position, I don't see why not!" Her heart clenched. At least she hoped there would be… He spoke again in a voice that soothed her immediately.
"Don't worry, Elsa… Things will work out, you'll see!" She offered a smile. There followed a small silence, before he spoke again.
"So where are we actually going Elsa?"
"It's a surprise, -and a secret! You mustn't tell anyone about what you see today!" She told him. His eyes widened. He nodded.
"Well, Ruffnut is gonna want to know what I was doing, out here, -alone, with the Chiefs' lovely, charming, soon-to-be-wife…" Her cheeks heated. She could blame the redness on the wind. She whipped her head around.
"Fishlegs!" He flinched. She couldn't help the small smile that crept upon the corners of her mouth. She looked forward for a moment, then back.
"Tell her you were assisting me on a very important matter concerning the tribe. If she presses you, tell her to speak to me personally!" He nodded, he didn't look convinced.
"Please, Fishlegs! This is something only Hiccup, Valka, and I know about!" This seemed to do the trick, as his eyes grew wide for a moment. Then, an extremely serious look came over his face. Good!
They flew on for another hour. Fishlegs talked endlessly. Little known dragon facts, how he and Hiccup found out about these facts. She found the stories interesting. She would love to hear his side of the stories. And she would, as soon as he was recovered. She sighed, there was so little time for them to do so. Her heart warmed a little as she vowed to spend more time just talking to him. Sitting by the fire in their hall, some secluded outcrop, watching the sunset. Maybe even watching it from the balcony in her room in Arendelle… Soon, she thought, -very soon…
Her thoughts were interrupted by a sharp intake of air. She looked ahead. The sun was glinting off the ice covering it. It was particularly beautiful. Even at this distance.
"Is, -is that what I think it is?" She nodded.
"Indeed it is, Fishlegs! But remember, no one is supposed to know!" He nodded. They flew on. As they got closer, the dragons dropped down. Before long, they were flying through the entrance tunnel, then out into the great chamber. They were greeted by all manner of chirps, squawks, and roars. They flew past the cliff, and then the smaller one, and were greeted by the sight of Jórunna. Fishlegs was beside himself.
"Oh my Gods! OH MY GODS! It's… It's a Bewilderbeast! Not… Not too close Meatlug!" His eyes were wide, but she wasn't sure if he was fearful…
"Calm down Fishlegs! She's fine! There's nothing to worry about!" Indeed, it seemed she was paying them no mind, and it also seemed she was just arriving herself.
"Wait… She? How, how do you know it's a female?" Time for some block-buster news!
"Well, I can… feel her thoughts. I can communicate with her!" His mouth dropped open.
"Whoooaaahhh! No way!" She nodded, and gave him a smile. They made a turn around the dragon. Jórunna was plodding along, then made a circle before she settled. Coming around, they landed on a small shelf just above the surface of the water. She slid out of the saddle and looked up. It seemed she finally noticed them. She gave a small bow of respect. Jórunna grunted and nodded.
* DROTTNIG… MASTER?* She smiled.
"No, Jórunna. This is Fishlegs. He is a student of dragons… A, - vinr dreki, He is a friend of the Master…" She then considered the man, who seemed a little frightened. She stood at her full height, tucking her tusks in. She then lowered herself. He was under the same piercing gaze she once found herself under. The poor man looked as if he was going to faint.
"Breathe, Fishlegs!" His eyes darted. He followed her advice. He calmed only a little. Jórunna then lifted and drew in a breath. She let out a small puff. A cloud of frost enveloped him, coating his helmet and shoulders. It seemed she approved of him. She considered him for a moment, then moved and settled. After looking at each of them, she shook her body and settled fully. Her eyelids drooped.
"How… Where… where did you find her?" He was still in total amazement.
"She showed up in my country. It was why Hiccup came back…" She told him of the events that day. Their argument, and his rescue of her. He nodded thoughtfully, then turned his gaze on the great dragon again.
"But, -how… How is it that you can speak to her?" She shrugged.
"I… I don't really know… I think, -it may have something to do with my powers… I had an, -incident with her just the other evening. I actually touched her, and bonded, but in doing so, -I had a vision… But it felt more like a memory… Jórunna then struck me with her ice. That's how I came about my staff." His eyes went wide. He nodded.
"I thought so! The core… It looked like the ice from a Bewilderbeast! But, -what does that mean?" He grabbed his chin, thinking hard.
"Hiccup told me you were working on something for him. Have you found anything?" He seemed not to hear. She was about to speak again…
"What? Oh, that!" He frowned, then his whole face lit up.
"Ah! That! Well… No wonder! I, -I was trying to figure out why…" He winced.
"No, no I haven't. There was one ancient tale… It was handed down by word of mouth for generations apparently. It, -it's written in an old language… I'm having a hard time translating it. There's something about a vetyr dottir, or a daughter of winter, and some other being… A sorcerer of some kind… I think. There was mention of a gripr, -mestr gripr… and a hveðrungr… A great animal, or monster… Possibly more than one… But, that's as far as I've gotten…"
She nodded. It made sense. What she could remember from her… vision. Two beings… fighting… for what? She had a feeling it was big… Bigger than she could imagine… And the great beasts? Dragons perhaps? Hmmm…
"Perhaps you and your wife should come over this evening, -for supper. Then you, Valka, and I could discuss this further." He nodded.
"That sounds great! Ruffnut has been cooped up in our hall… And Valka, she's spent so much time with them… Maybe she's heard something in her travels." It sounded good to her too.
"I'll leave you two alone for a while." She told him. She wanted to explore the nest a little. She hadn't much time to do that, and she really wasn't ready to go back just yet. Even though there was a strong pull to get back to Hiccups' side.
"Hiccup…" She whispered, and offered another silent prayer. She couldn't help but feel as though she was walking through deep mud. Each step forward as challenging as the next, and always a feeling of being stuck in one spot… But, -surely… Down three days with a fever, and he was still with her. That was good… Wasn't it? A dragon cawed in the distance. She turned her head. It, -seemed like that dragon had answered her… but that was just silly!
She walked the path. She was trying to find her way to that cavern she saw the first time… the first time… She and Hiccup… A small wave of heat coursed through her body, thinking of their… activities that day… She shivered. He did not, -take her that day… But GODS! She wanted him to… She chastised herself. She had to be patient. She had learned much that day, and Hiccup assured her there was more… The mere thought of which… uuugghhh! She stamped those thoughts down. Soon, -she thought. Not now, -but soon…
There it was! The path branched off. One path led up the side of the cliff. It wound around a little, and was a bit steep, but she managed. The main room was open on both sides. It was almost three times the size of the main room in their hall. The wall that faced the nest was only about thirty feet wide. Against it, it appeared Hiccup had built a small forge. There was an anvil and a table. And another table against the wall. His tools were strewn about on their surfaces. She turned around.
There were openings on either side. They seemed a bit short, but she imagined, if they were careful, even a large dragon could crawl in. From there, the room was about forty feet deep. There was a small alcove in a corner off to her right. Secluded, but not cut off from the rest of the room. There were many furs piled on the floor of it. Which was at least a foot higher than the rest of the room. It looked very inviting!
There was a passageway in the wall just to the right of that. Its' opening was just large enough for a person to pass through. Against the back wall were four cabinets. Two short, and two rather tall ones. Plates and cups were stacked somewhat neatly on top. There was also a deep basin in between them. The other corner held a larger, open alcove, and tucked away in the corner somewhat hidden, was another slightly larger passageway. All manner of baskets were stacked there, and hooks had been driven into the rock.
She turned around. It was cozy. She didn't care too much for it being so open, but then the dragons couldn't come in. Speaking of which, Hulda swooped around and landed on the ledge off the opening to her right. She ducked her head a little, and walked inside chirping. She smiled walking up to her. She gave her a very fond, and very thorough scratching. This wonderful, marvelous creature! Thank the Gods!
The cavern was then invaded by a small flock of little ones. They were hopping about, and came up to her, vying for attention. There were Gronkles, Nadders and even a small Nightmare, and another type of dragon she hadn't seen yet. It looked like a Nadder, but it didn't have its' frill of spines. She tried her hardest, but… they were all very excited! A few started to explore, until they started knocking things over. Hulda stood and splayed her wings and squawked loudly. They all then hopped or flitted away.
Fishlegs walked in watching them go. Meatlug had swung around, landing on the ledge. Hulda shuffled a few steps over, offering her more room. They both grunted a greeting to each other. He looked around, taking in the living quarters. He nodded after a few moments.
"Wow! This is comfy!" She agreed. He then fixed her with a look.
"Why… why did you guys keep this a secret?" She hadn't been sure at first, but…
"Hiccup thought it, prudent. And after thinking on it some, I have to agree. There must be something… Something else these people… To be willing to risk so much…" He nodded, then grabbed his chin.
"Yes. -Some, -thing or… Some, -one! The Lavalouts are obviously involved but, -Röngvaldr… He's not the… sharpest axe in the armory. Either, -they had assurances, or…" He trailed off.
"-Or someone else is pulling the strings!" She finished the thought. She thought for a moment. If her plan went well… Maybe they could find out more. There could be repercussions, but she would deal with that later. Fishlegs looked over his shoulder, then back.
"It's strange, she's, -she very docile… You can tell… I dunno, she seems peaceful and calm…" He furrowed his brow thinking. "She nothing at all like the one, -Drago had…"
"Hiccup never told me, -everything about that…" There was so little time.
"Well, a Bewilderbeast can control other dragons. We think it's some kind of sound or signal only dragons can hear or sense. We also think that maybe Drago had found his as a hatchling. Or maybe, he somehow saved it. At any rate he had control of it, and he used it to gather a large number of dragons to him. And through them, conquer humans." She nodded.
"And this, -Red Death. It can control dragons as well?" He nodded.
"It was the Red Death that had caused the dragons to raid us for food all those years. Hiccup and I believe it to be the same type of sound or signal. It may be that it merely plants a suggestion in their minds, rather than directly controlling them. Or maybe a basic urge, it had to be strong for them to go out and gather food, and not eat it themselves. But then again, they were under constant threat of being eaten themselves." Interesting…
"So if there is a Red Death… Could Jórunna control it, or would it be the other way around?" He grabbed his chin and frowned. It was a few moments before he spoke again.
"I, -I don't know. There wasn't any time to study either one… But maybe, if she will allow me, I can at least figure out the nature of her influence. Or maybe, -you could ask her?" He shrugged his shoulders.
"Well, I, -I'm not sure myself how much she understands… Only a few stunted sentences… But, in light of anything else, I guess we could try!" He nodded. They made their way back down. They stood across from her on the ledge.
"Jórunna? You can control the dragons?" Her eyes opened wider, She looked at her and grunted.
*JÓRUNNA -HLÍFA DREKI -MASTER, DROTTNIG… HLÍFA DREKI* She had said this before.
"Yes, Jórunna… vald dreki sj á lfr ykkarr?" Her eyes flitted askance, then down, then back to her. She lifted her head. The pupils of her eyes turned into thin slits. She then… heard? -Felt? A thrumming vibration. The spines on Jorunnas' forehead twitched randomly. She then heard her voice.
*HITTA ALLR DREKI ÁSAMT* The dragons all started squawking and roaring, including their own sitting behind them. Soon, a cloud of dragons were flying over her head. They seemed to be flying in unison, all circling over her head.
*SAMNI SAMNI ALLR* Hulda chirped, and Meatlug growled. They both took off, and joined them. It was quite impressive. Even more dragons seemed to join in. They all flew closely together, yet how they were not colliding with each other… She wondered if it was Jórunnas' doing or…
*JÓRUNNA HLÍFA JÓRUNNA ALLR HLÍFA* Hmmm. Maybe she didn't understand, maybe it was she herself…
"Jórunna? R í kr kvikindi ƍ nd ó ttr styra? "
*RIKR KVIKINDI FÁRBJÓÐR RIKR KVIKINDI SKAÐA DREKI- JÓRUNNA VÉURR* She sighed. Either she didn't understand, or she did, but didn't have the words.
"She keeps saying she's a protector, that she will protect the dragons. But she did say the Red Death is a, -destroyer." She turned to Fishlegs. He was white as a sheet. She feared he would pass out.
"Fishlegs! What's wrong?" He shook his head after a moment. Their eyes met. There was pure fear…
"That's… that's just how… Dragos' Bewilderbeast…" Of course! It must have triggered a memory!
" Logn J ó runna! Fri ð r!" The vibrations stopped. Jórunnas' pupils widened. The dragons dispersed. Meatlug and Hulda joined them after a few moments. She offered her a jaw scratch. She looked over, and the man was hugging his dragon fiercely. She thought she detected a shake of his frame.
"Fishlegs?" She walked up to him and placed a hand on his shoulder. He turned to face her after a few moments His eyes were bright.
"Sorry! That, that was a bad day for us…" She nodded.
"That was the day Hiccups' father was killed, yes?" He nodded sullenly.
"Wh, -what happened?" He looked at the ground a moment before he spoke.
"Drago attacked the nest. Hiccup confronted him to try to stop the killing. Dragos' Bewilderbeast took control of Toothless. He was about to kill Hiccup when…" She gasped! He had told her this!
"Stoic! He… he took the blast meant for… Hiccup!" He nodded, his eyes falling to the ground again. Meatlug gurgled softly and nuzzled him. Poor Toothless! That, -that was just cruel!
"What happened after?" She asked.
"Hiccup was distraught… He, he sent Toothless away… He didn't mean it! -Drago took him, and he moved to take Berk… We flew the babies back, and Hiccup managed to get Toothless from out of the Bewilderbeasts' control…" -And they won the day, -together! She wondered… If that other Bewilderbeast showed up… What, -how would Jórunna fare against this Red Death? She hoped they wouldn't have to find out but…
"Fishlegs? Let's get back!" He nodded.
She went to their room as soon as she landed. Valka again hid, -something she was sewing when she entered. He still hadn't improved. He took some water and broth. His breathing seemed a bit easier. But he was still burning up. She tried not to despair. She sat with him for a little while, running her fingers through his hair. She talked to him. Maybe the sound of her voice would soothe him, and guide him back to her.
After a while, she left to take lunch at the Great Hall. She needed to show herself to the tribe. She sat at the main table. She was joined by Spitelout, and surprisingly, -Snotlout. They chatted about matters with the tribe. They hadn't found out anything from the prisoners. Either they didn't know, or they weren't telling just yet. Maybe she should get involved… no, not just yet…
She was nearly done with her meal when Gjaflaug came to her, saying all was ready. She nodded.
"Snotlout? Saddle up! You're coming with me!" It took him by surprise.
"Whoa, -whoa, whoa! Excuse me? That didn't sound like you were asking! I mean, you're just Chief 'til Hiccup wakes up…" She bristled a little, but she calmed and smiled at him sweetly.
"Snotlout? Do you remember you wanted to see me freeze someone solid?" He nodded. She clasped her hands behind her back, and talked to him just as sweetly.
"Well, if you don't saddle Hookfang and meet me in the square in twenty minutes, you will receive first hand knowledge!" She fixed him with a look. At first he smiled, but it faded as he came to the realization she wasn't kidding. He gulped dryly, then walked off heavily, muttering under his breath. As soon as he was out of earshot, Spitelout laughed loudly. It was a few moments before he calmed.
"Ahhh, lass! Ye have a way with the menfolk, don't ye?" She smiled warmly at him. He gave her the eye.
"And where might ye be goin'?" She plastered a look of innocence, bringing a hand to her chest.
"Uncle! Why, -it is merely a, -diplomatic mission!" She cocked an eyebrow. "I'm going to cause a little trouble! -Just a little…" He grinned for a moment, then took her arm firmly.
"Elsa? Be careful! I don't know how ye came away from the Lavalouts unharmed. But we must still be wary! I don' think we know ever'thing what's goin' on!" She nodded.
"I'm fairly sure of that, Uncle! Hopefully, we can get a few more sets of eyes watching… Closer to the matter…" His eyes widened slightly, then his face hardened. He nodded. Then, his face softened. He gave her arm a squeeze.
"Elsa? Ye are an amazing young woman! I, -I can see why he loves ye…" He blushed furiously. It was truly endearing.
"And I love him Spitelout, -very much!" She smiled, -but her thoughts turned to Hiccup. She really didn't want to, but it seemed she was leaving him again. He would understand. This couldn't wait… Spitelout gave her arm another squeeze.
"Don't worry child! He'll be up and about soon! And we'll get you two properly married before ye know it!" Her cheeks heated. It was her turn… But, she offered him a warm smile. -And before he could say anything else, she wrapped him in a warm hug. Then kissed his cheek.
"Thank you Uncle!" She gave him a bright smile, then turned and left…
They stood there near the clearing for longer than she was comfortable. What was taking them so long? She hoped nothing went wrong. A small pit of fear sat in her stomach. She dreaded having to go to their rescue. It wouldn't turn out good for anyone. Snotlouts' complaining wasn't helping.
"What are we even doing here? Do you realize how close we are? If someone sees us…" She was about at her limit with him.
"Shush Snotlout! If you're so worried, keep watch! Otherwise, keep quiet or go home!" He huffed.
"No way! I'm not leaving you here all by yourself! Which reminds me, why -exactly did I have to come along?" She supposed he had his moments. He was Hiccups' cousin after all…
"Because if something goes wrong I might need Hookfangs' fire and mass to… break a few things! I could've brought Tindr, but he hasn't been himself lately…" He had been skittish and a bit forlorn since his rider was put in the cells. Maybe Snotlout here could…
Her thoughts were interrupted by a flapping sound, along with a muffled growling. Tofi blinked into view, with Gjaflaug on his back. Hildriðr a moment later. Camicazi had a smug smile on her face as she tossed the person behind her on the ground. He had a hood over his head, and apparently, she had tied and gagged him as well. She leapt off her dragon, and stripped the hood off. Tarr did not look happy. She reached around and pulled the rag out of his mouth. He spit a few times and glared at her.
"Lady Kirsten! What is the meaning of this?" He growled.
"Forgive me Tarr, but I must apologize to you. First, because I was not truthful with you on our first meeting. I am actually Elsa Ellesmyre, Queen of Arendelle!" His eyes went a little wide, then narrowed.
"And second for bringing you here like this. Because you cannot be seen talking to us. But I felt it most important that we do!" He seemed to relent, but only a little.
"Please Tarr! Chief Haddock and I felt it necessary to keep my true identity hidden, until we could rout this conspiracy out… A conspiracy, that possibly involves your tribe, or maybe some person here. Our hand was forced when three members of the council tried to arrest me and have me banished!" His eyes widened a bit, then he eased. He dropped his eyes looking at his feet, He shook his head.
"That is unfortunate! But what does this have to do with me?" He looked at her intently.
"Chief Haddock has banished the three from Berk. One of them is headed this way. His name is TulkR. A few sisters from the Bog Island confirmed this. He should be here tomorrow. What can you tell us of him?" He straightened a little. His eyes darted side to side. He licked his lips.
"He is… related to one of the families here. He came here about three years ago. There were… meetings. My father and he, and a few of the other heads of the clans…" He seemed to fidget a little. It was a bit troubling… Gjaflaug spoke.
"Aye! My father too! If I remember. Berk had been mentioned, but I thought that it was just where he was going…" Three years… Hiccup was gone at the time. Hmmm…
"And have there been any ships that have sailed here? Any other persons hanging about that are not from the archipelago?" He fidgeted again slightly before he answered.
"No, not, -not anyone worth mentioning…" He shook his head… somewhat nervously. He was… No matter. This was enough for now, she really couldn't blame him. He looked at her fixedly.
"And what can you tell me of these raids… Elsa?" This was news to her! Did he really…
"Raids? What raids? This is the first time I've heard of them! What happened?" He straightened a little and gave her the eye. It ignited her ire.
"We have been raided by dragons twice in the last few days. Not a very large group, but they made off with some livestock, and a few houses were burned. Some say… they came from Berk!" Snotlout scoffed.
"Oh really ? All of our dragons are accounted for! We have watches set! If a group of dragons suddenly decide to leave, we would know about it!" Tarr cast a glance his way. He didn't look convinced.
"It's true Tarr! I have my own dragon! I spend nearly my whole day at the stables caring for them. If such a thing were to happen, They would be followed at least!" Snotlout nodded.
"And this raiding behavior? It's not normal! Some -thing, or someone is causing them to do this! And the Gods help you when it finally shows itself!" Snotlouts' eyes seemed to glaze for a slight moment, though his face didn't change. Tarrs' eyes widened fractionally, but…
"Tarr? You must know, you must believe… Berk had nothing to do with this! -Even if we could do such a thing, would it not be easier for us to have one of the dragons carry your father off? -Or any one else who was opposed to this? We would not be having this conversation if we could control the dragons as you have suggested… We will support you if you will but change the way you deal with the dragons." His eyebrows knotted, thinking hard. His eyes flitted from Snotlout, to Gjaflaug, then to her.
"And what about my father? He is not likely to just… step down. He, -he thinks I'm not ready… Be, -because of the way… I deal with, -things… Indeed, our relationship has been… strained since our last… conversation." She nodded.
"We will do what we can to convince him to give way. But we cannot and will not barge in here and take over. It is the Chiefs' choice as to how and where to lead his people. We will protect the dragons! That is our main charge here. We will try to convince the dragons to stay away, if things continue. -And we will not be merciful if it's someone from outside causing them harm." His eyes widened for a fraction, then darted quickly… But only slightly… She picked it up immediately. All of her training… She was convinced. He was hiding something… Or at least keeping something… But what? She chose to focus on their last conversation. He was at least willing to try…
"-At any rate… Tarr? We want to leave a few of the Bog sisters close by. It will be easier for them to send word if anything happens. And they in turn can show you how to deal with the dragons. Without harming them." She hoped he would agree. But she wasn't sure herself. It was obvious he was hiding something, -keeping something from them. Could she really trust him? In the end, she really couldn't blame him. So much uncertainty… After what seemed like some serious consideration, he nodded.
"Very well! There is another island to the northwest. There's good water, and a bit of shelter. A few good spots for watching the island proper. I will do what I can to look after them." Camcazi huffed.
"We won't need anyone looking after us! Especially a man! We're Bogs! It's us that's more likely to be looking out for you!" Tarrs' head whipped around.
"Oh AYE? You'll not need anyone to help keep people off the island? Good luck to ye then, if someone should happen to stumble upon your camp! And what will ye eat? It'll be a risk to go hunting, or fishing. -Unless ye plan to do it at night!" She could see Camis' anger flare. He had a point but she said nothing.
"Then it's settled! The Bogs will teach you how to use the Terrors, as well as how to deal with the dragons. Should anything arise, please let us know. We can be here in a matter of minutes." He nodded absently. He and Cami were having a stare-off. Snotlout interjected.
"Tarr? Is there a dragon you're interested in?" That broke his concentration. He considered for a moment…
"Maybe, a Hideous Zippleback, or a Monstrous Nightmare" Snoulout nodded.
"Not many Zipplebacks around, -and not just anyone can properly handle a Nightmare… We can send one of those over, maybe even teach you how…" Tarr nodded. It was as good an outcome as she had hoped for. Now it was time to get back. The thought he was hiding something was troubling. But she chose not to worry about it much for now. They simply had to find out what was going on. -And she had to get back to Hiccup.
"Come along, Snotlout! We will create a diversion, so we can get you back unnoticed!" Tarr nodded, Snotlout objected.
"Woah! Wait! What are we going to do? I thought I was just your escort! What are you thinking Elsa?" She wasn't sure herself, but she had an idea…
They made an entire turn around the village, making sure everyone saw them. They were all scurrying about, manning the catapults, grabbing weapons. They all seemed to slow a little as they realized the dragons attacking them had riders. Röngvaldr came into the center of the crowd gathered in the square. She reached around and grabbed her staff. Just as they were about to set down on the roof of their Great Hall. Snotlout unhooked his great war hammer in response. She cracked the door open on her magic.
"So! Ye come and show yer faces before ye take us down this time Lady Kirsten?" He called. Angry shouts rose from the crowd. She wasn't fazed.
"Chief Röngvaldr! I must apologize! I am not really Lady Kirsten! I am actually Queen Elsa, of Arendelle! My country is far south from here. I came to Berk… Chief Haddock and I are to be wed very soon!" There was a small look of surprise for a moment on his face, before he schooled his features.
"Oh? So it's the both of ye then? Ya mean ta send more of yer dragons here and destroy us?" He bellowed.
"Nonsense Röngvaldr! It is you yourself that will cause your downfall! And you still insist on taking all these good people with you! I wonder if they are all aware of this or they simply don't know yet… And as far as us sending dragons here? If such a thing were even possible, we wouldn't even be here talking about it! Perhaps you should look to whoever holds your chain!" He started. She surprised herself at her own boldness. But it seemed to make some of the people around him stop as well.
"What! No one holds my… No one tells me what to do! It is you! You and those damned dragons, -Aye! And all your allies too! Ye mean ta kill us all! And take the island for yourselves!" She sighed heavily.
"Again, -nonsense! As far as we can tell, your island is the only one being raided! In the whole archipelago! There are much fatter, juicier targets all around! At some point Röngvaldr, you'll have to ask yourself, whose best interest do your new friends have in mind? Yours, -or theirs?" This seemed to give him pause for only a moment, but it was something. Some of the warriors around him looked at each other quizzically. Röngvaldrs' face hardened into a murderous scowl.
"Off wi' ye then! Yer no' welcome here!" He reached for his belt where a large axe was holstered. He hefted it. And leveled her with a glare.
"If I see another dragon on this island, I'll take its' head wi' me bare hands! -And if that dragon has a rider… I'll send 'im back to ye, -in tiny pieces!" He then threw the axe at her. Her hand came up instinctively, A bolt of frost burst forth, striking the axe mid-flight. She spun her staff, her own speed surprising her. It contacted the axe, -shattering it into a million pieces.
She really shouldn't… She was angry… upset. She knew better than to use her powers when she was in this state… But this man… This man had tried to kill her! -Or at least cause her great harm. She stood slowly in the stirrups. She pointed her staff at him. Her powers surged. She focused on him. Her eyes darted, a quick look at the people in the square around him. Their mouths were still open in shock, as was his.
Frost quickly formed around his feet. Once solidly in place, it started creeping up his legs. It didn't seem to register with him until it crept past his knees. He looked down. His eyes widened in disbelief. He tried to move, but he was frozen to the ground. Up, up the frost crept. Past his knees to his waist. He raised his face. Complete fear and shock, and panic she saw. She nudged Hulda. She pushed off, and with a few gentle flaps of her wings, landed in front of him. She slid out of the saddle. The frost had crept past his waist to his chest, then his shoulders, and down his arms to his hands. It stopped at the base of his neck.
She walked up to him, stopping a dozen feet from him. She placed the end of her staff on the ground. Her other arm she outstretched to him, palm up, -fingers spread. She slowly closed her hand, drawing it into a fist. The ice started to compress and harden. His breathing became labored, his breaths coming out in clouds. His head lolled, eyes rolling. She walked right up to him, lowering her voice so only he could hear.
"One blow from my staff, and your whole body will shatter. -Just as your axe did. I will forgive this just this once! I will allow you a chance to redeem yourself… Undo what it is you have done! Send these people away, whoever they are… They cannot mean well if they send the dragons to steal and burn the very people they mean to help, -yes?" She couldn't tell exactly if he heard her or not. But, perhaps this demonstration would be enough.
She looked around, a thought came to her, -A flush of giddiness ran through her body. -She could freeze all of them to the ground, and she could search the village herself, unimpeded. She would find these people, and do to them what she just did to Röngvaldr. -Only… She wouldn't stop at their necks… And she would put them on display! Against anyone who dared oppose her! She stopped. This… That was…
She physically shook the thoughts from her head. That, -was a side-effect. Giddy with the powers as they coursed through her body… Feeling as she did whenever she was with Hiccup… She stopped again… and the rest of those thoughts left her head. Hiccup… If she gave in… If she acted on those thoughts… She may never see him again. -His… Their relationship would be forever changed… and not for the better, she thought.
" Hiccup! " She whispered his name as though praying. She looked out over the square. She could do it, -but no… These people had nothing to do with what just happened. They were just following orders. -And she needed to get back to him… She released her focus on Röngvaldr. He would not completely thaw until they were well away. He would be unharmed, she knew. And hopefully, with a new-found fear of the Gods within him. She berated herself as she walked up to Hulda. How, -how could she… What was she… She climbed in the saddle and looked out again. Were they? Yes, -words were needed…
"I apologize to you all for my earlier deception! I felt it necessary… And I also apologize for this as well.." She waved her staff in his direction. "But this man will lead you all to ruin! He has made a deal with someone… Someone who only cares for their own desires! It is not Berk, nor anyone else in the archipelago who opposes you! Have a care in the choices you make! They may have consequences beyond anything you can imagine!" With a nudge, Hulda leapt into the air. Snotlout joined her after a few moments. She caught him looking back a few times. When he turned back around, -his face was grim…
Something prickled the back of her mind. It felt like… well, Jórunna. But somehow, this was different. Had she been close by? Was she watching after her? She had promised her she would protect them. Did that mean Jórunna would also look after her? She couldn't be sure. She shrugged it off. It probably was her, and she probably was some distance away… Which was why she couldn't tell if it was indeed her. Yes. That made sense… Right?
The meal went well. Ruffnut was an excellent cook. She offered to spend some time with her while she taught her how to cook. If she was going to be spending more time here… Her chest clenched. She looked up from her sewing. He still lay there in the bed across from her. Valka had gotten a bit more broth and water in him. He hadn't stirred since she had returned, but he was still feverish. Maybe… maybe tomorrow, he would wake…
She sighed. Valka could offer no more information on Jórunna. She had been surprised, learning of her ability. It was something she herself couldn't do. She had been merely blessed with a natural ability to read their body language. Something Hiccup had inherited as well. -And, she had heard the tales. Two powerful beings… Either sorcerers, or demigods, had fought for dominion over the world. Some kind of great beasts were involved, or had gotten caught up in it. It smacked of the tales from the ancient Greks. Mere stories meant to teach mankind some moral code. Or a tale of caution, as many of them were.
She looked back down at her sewing. If he was going to wake up, he would need this. She was making him another sock for his stump. This one would be more sturdy, and have extra padding. If she guessed right, he would want to get up straight away and get back to his duties. But she wasn't going to allow it. Not if she had to tie him to the bed… A flush ran through her body. Tying him to the bed… No! That was… That was for after they were married. She chuckled to herself, then sighed…
Married… to Hiccup… But when? Soon she thought. After… this. What ever it was the Gods had planned for them. A small pit of dread formed. -She then stabbed herself with the needle. Dammit! She needed to focus. But she was so tired! She sent two small prayers… One for her carelessness, and the other for a small amount… any amount of time… Where they could be just Elsa and Hiccup. -Two young people in love… Well, she could hope… couldn't she?
All the thoughts started coalescing in her mind into a single, loud noise… Jorunna, Hiccup, the Lavalouts, Anna, the future… After pricking herself two more times, she put her sewing away. She opted just to sit by the bed. She did so, on the floor. She curled her legs. Her arms on top. She watched him sleep, pausing occasionally to smooth his blanket, or his hair. She crossed her arms in front of her and laid her head down, still looking at him. Sleep took her before she realized…