Spitelout headed for the back room. With a look, he gathered the Chiefs, and Heirs. Eugene, and the Captain joined them. They all gathered in the small room, looking at the map on the table. Raneigh spoke.
"The Murderous were… attacked this night, about an hour and a half ago…" She didn't say…
"Dragons?" He said, She rolled her shoulders.
"I think… There were dragons involved… But this…" She frowned, then continued.
"There were the usual… Nadders, Gronkles, Zipplebacks, even a few Snafflefangs, and Raincutters… About sixty, all told. -And, -something else… We, we heard its' roar from across the water… And fire… Its' fire… It -was like nothing we had ever seen…" Her head dropped. Cami put a hand on her arm.
"Did you track it? Where did it go?" He asked. She nodded.
"Aye! We tried, but the dragons… They attacked, when we got close enough… They headed off west." She pointed on the map Dogsbreath nodded and spoke.
"There is a bunch of small islands in that area… We had just gotten around to those…" He nodded. Raneigh spoke absently.
"Fire… The fire… Like a river of flame… Everything… Everything was burning…" He knew what they had to do. -And there wasn't any time to waste!
"Raneigh? Get back out there! See if you and the sisters can pinpoint where that thing went! If your dragons start to act up, get out!" She looked at Cami and Bertha. They nodded, and she left.
"Dogsbreath? You're closest. I want the first lift to be firefighting equipment! The bags, and the troughs! The second lift? First aid, healing supplies…" He nodded.
"Bertha? Healing supplies, and long grass! As much as you can carry! We may need it in the coming days. I'll send some extra Gronkles over for the tow…" She nodded.
"Trófastr? You're farthest away, hopefully, the fires should be out by the time you get there. Logging, and lumber tools, -to help rebuild… And as much long grass as you can spare!" He nodded. Thinking, thinking, thinking… Elsa came up beside him, and placed a calming hand on his back…
"When you all get home… Ready your ships… Have them sail before first light! Dogsbreath? Bertha? Thuggory? Sail your ships around, and approach from the north. Eugene? Take three of yours, and go with them. You will lead, they will support…" He nodded
"Captain? Sail your ship around south of Lavalout island. -Here! There is a maze of islands… Trofastr? Sail around with him! -Try to stay hidden, or keep them confused, or occupied! You will be in a position to support Thuggory, and the ships from Berk…"
"Thuggory? Bring the big ship! Sail it around south to this point. Place it between this area and the Murderous island… I have had five of our ships fitted with nets, and high-powered bolas… It's there where we will meet, and support you!" He nodded.
He looked over the map. That should about cover everything on that side…
"Also when you get home… Double your watches, and patrols… This may not be… We cannot discount an attack on our homes, while our attention is elsewhere! -At least one full team! Two, -if you can spare them. The rest of the riders need to be ready to go at a moments' notice!" Bertha leaned around.
"Trófastr? Why not send half your riders to Friðrs' rock? -As soon as they can! We'll have fish for the dragons, and food and ale for the riders." He nodded. It was a good idea. It was over three hours' flight from Hopeless. It would be a good staging area. Dogsbreath spoke.
"Hiccup? Perhaps, -I should be the first to land… There have been rumors spread… That it is you that is causing the raids…." He nodded.
"That would be preferable, -but I'm going anyway…" Camicazi shook her head.
"Hiccup? -Why? -Why are we even doing this? If rumors have been spread… You're not likely to be welcomed there." She had a point, but…
"I know Cami. We are doing this because we can… And it's the right thing to do!" They all nodded thoughtfully…
"Everyone? Our first priority is to the sick, and wounded! Our next, -food and shelter! Then, we need to find out where this thing went, and make a plan to take it down. And find these conspirators, -and take them down too!" A chorus of ayes rang out.
"My Lord? What are ye thinkin'?" The Captain asked. He hadn't really thought of it, but…
"I'm thinking of burning their hall down, -and smoking them out!" A wicked grim crossed the Bogs faces. The Captain grinned as well. They left the room, and walked to the dais. They all flanked him. Elsa was clinging to his arm. She had a worried look on her face. He placed a hand on hers, and squeezed gently. He looked out over the crowd. Many worried and concerned faces met his gaze.
"Everyone? The Murderous were attacked… Almost two hours ago… By dragons!" There was a collective gasp. Many looked at each other, then back at him.
"I want the first three teams of riders ready to leave in twenty minuets! Eret? I want the towboats loaded… Food, blankets, and what medicines we can spare… I want them ready in two hours! I need auxiliary teams A and C to double the watch! And I need long patrols tonight, -in all directions! Eret? Gustav? Gjaflaug, and Snotlout? -To me! Everyone?" He thought for a moment, they needed to know.
"This was probably meant to draw us all out. We cannot ignore the possibility of an attack on our homes. Secure your armories, and your food stores! Have all those not able to fight ready to move! Prepare your safe places! Keep the Terrors close. Word will be sent when we find out more!" Everyone started moving as one. Hasty goodbyes were made… And a tender farewell? Between Gjaflaug, -and Dogsbreath? Hmmm. Eret And Gustav stepped up.
"Eret? I want the Bola ships ready to sail by dawn. I want you to take them to the Murderous. Meet the big ship from the Meatheads. You will support them." He nodded.
"Sure Hiccup!" He turned to the younger man.
"Gustav? I want you and Fanghook up on Trolls' Peak. Keep a sharp eye!" His face fell.
"But Hiccup! -I want to go with you!" He pleaded.
"No! I need you here! Next to Fishlegs and myself, you understand more about dragon behavior than anyone! If the Red Death shows up here… It's basically a large, -very large, Boulder Class dragon. Try to lead it away, but do not engage it directly! But! If all else fails… Toothless and I defeated the last one by burning it from the inside. -Do you understand?" He nodded. He placed a hand on Gustavs' shoulder, and gathered all the seriousness into the gaze he fixed him with.
"It must be timed perfectly! It will be a very dangerous move! But you must protect the village!" He looked away slightly, then back. A determined look gathered on his face as he realized the gravity of the responsibility placed on him. He nodded.
"Sure Hiccup!" With a look to Elsa, he was gone. Toothless padded up to him. His head darted this way and that, confused by all the commotion. He bounded the last few steps and pushed his snout into his belly.
"Hey Bud!" He ran his hands over his head. They were joined by Elsas'. Toothless had an appreciative croon and a small lick for her. Their hands brushed slightly. He shared a look and a smile with her. He took Toothless by the jaw.
"Bud? You need to eat! We're gonna have a long night." The dragon huffed and shook his head. His attention was redirected by a call.
"My Lord?" Lieutenant Schaeffer walked up with Eugene behind him. He gave a bow first to him, then Elsa. His attention was gathered by Toothless, who gave him a gummy smile, and pushed his snout into his chest. He scratched him fondly.
"Hello! Toothless!" He said with a smile.
"Elsa? This is Lieutenant Timothy Schaeffer. He helped me while I was in Corona." She nodded. Timothy knelt before them.
"Yes, your Majesty. I was in his Lordships' service. -And from this moment on, -I pledge my sword, and my service! Whatever you would ask of me, I shall see it done!" She looked at him, and tilted her head slightly. Then gave a small shake. She then looked back.
"Well met! Sir Timothy!" He rose and bowed. And fixed him with an earnest look.
"Please, My Lord! Has there been any word of the Chieftess Heather?" He shook his head.
"No, I'm afraid not. But I think, -with the confusion of this raid, it could present an opportunity." He nodded.
"If I can be of any assistance…" He nodded.
"We will send word when we find out anything." He nodded and bowed, turning his attention to Toothless. Eugene stepped up.
"Hiccup? Elsa? You take care of each other!" He nodded. Elsa stepped in and hugged him. He clasped his arm.
"I'll see you in the morning." Eugene nodded. They walked out of the hall together. They were joined by Gjaflaug and Snotlout. Tindr was waiting. He walked over and took him by the horn on his nose, and grabbed a tooth. He shook firmly.
"Tindr! You take care of him! He's family! Do you understand?" The dragons' eyes narrowed a bit. He heard a bark and a growl from his right. Toothless was weighing in as well. Tindrs' eyes flitted between his and Toothless. He released him. After a moment, he laid his chin on the ground. A sign of submission. He growled softly.
"That's a good dragon!" The dragon lifted his head and looked back at Eugene. He gave him a firm tug on his horns. Tindr crooned.
He glanced at Elsa. She opened her mouth, but was interrupted by a shriek and a familiar roar. Windshear all but crashed to the ground in the square. Timothy rushed up first, followed by himself, Toothless and Elsa. She was bleeding from the mouth, and the base of her neck. There was a collar around it, with a chain attached to it. A good sized chunk of rock at the other end. There were shackles on two of her legs. The short lengths of chain attached to them looked like they had been eaten through by acid. Except for that, and a few dents and scuffs, she would be alright.
She gurgled while Timothy rubbed her chin. Gobber walked up and started examining her bonds. He had them all undone quickly. The dragon gave him an affectionate nudge and crooned. He walked up carefully, but Toothless wasted no time. He huffed and crooned worriedly. Windshear gurgled and bumped his head. She the nipped him lovingly on his neck.
He knelt down and opened her mouth gently. She had a broken tooth, and a couple others missing. A thought came to him…
"Windshear? I know you're tired, but can you fly?" She barked and roared. The saddle was tattered, but still attached. She flexed her wings.
"Can you take us to Heather?" Again she roared, and gurgled. She hopped up and down frantically. Timothy spoke.
"Please My Lord! Let me go! I can help!" That he probably could, but… He shook his head.
"Timothy? This isn't a good time to learn how to ride a dragon… It'll be dangerous enough as it is!" He looked down.
"Please! I, -I have already ridden her once… She won't let anything happen to me!" As if to prove a point, she nudged him. He wrapped his arms around her head. The dragon crooned. His objection had been overruled.
"Fine!" He said. He gathered Camicazis' attention…
"Cami? Take Windshear, and Timothy here… Find Heather, -and bring her back!" She opened her mouth, then closed it. She nodded, and rolled her shoulders.
"Come! Let's get her some fish then…" She said. The man grinned. He took Windshear by the jaw.
"You take care of him! He'll help you get Heather back!" She crooned, and gave him a small lick. Then walked off after the others. Toothless went with them. He glanced at Elsa, their eyes locked.
"Hiccup? I, -I think I should go…" He nodded. They were thinking the same thing.
"Take my mother, and Fishlegs… Gather a flock of Gronkles, and Snafflefangs. Have him take some to the Bogburglars. They can tow the boats… Gather as many others as you can. Maybe they can help if there is another raid nearby. She nodded. They embraced tightly. When they separated, he placed a hand on her cheek.
"I'll be up in a few minuets." She nodded and left. He turned to the other two.
"You two are coming with me. We're going over there, take a look at the damage before we fly in." Gjaflaug frowned.
"But, Hiccup? -Elsa?" He shook his head.
"Elsa, my mother, and Fishlegs have a task I need them to do… You, -I may need you to do something for me on the way there…" She nodded.
"Why am I coming with you?" Snotlout asked.
"Because -I'll need you, -if something goes wrong!" He nodded. He knew how to fight, but the man had a knack for breaking things, -and skulls… Should the need arise…
"Now, meet me here in twenty minuets!" They nodded. He watched them go. He was about to turn towards his hall, when a hand clapped his shoulder heavily. It was Spitelout. He sighed.
"Ahhh, all that drink… Gone ta waste!" He nodded.
"I guess we'll have to save it for the victory party!" He looked at him. A wide grin split his face.
"Aye! Hiccup! I reckon so!"
She went through the door. Valka had come out of her room and was gathering her armor.
"Valka? I want you, and Fishlegs to go with me to the nest!" She nodded.
"Aye! I had the same thought as well child!" She smiled, then had a thought.
"Valka? Do you think… Jórunna, -she will help us in this, -won't she?" Her brow knotted.
"I canna say for sure… But, if it is as you say, -if she sees this other dragon as a threat… I would think she would." She nodded. She had thought the same. After all, she did say… Valka put a hand on her shoulder.
"The Bewilderbeast I knew, -wasn't very fond of humans. Especially after seeing how they were treated. But, he trusted me… And would allow me to take the dragons with me to free those that had been captured. Sometimes, he would come along… If I had a particular need. But he seemed to do things in his own time…" Yes, it seemed… But this was different. She wouldn't be helping dragons, she would be helping them. Valka spoke again.
"Elsa? With your powers… You, haven't been able to… contact it? -This other dragon?" She shook her head.
"I, -I felt, -something… The last time I was at Lavalout Island. I thought it was Jórunna, but… It felt, -different… This, -legend you heard, -it didn't offer any, -specifics, did it?" She shook her head.
"It only said the beasts fought with each other, -for each other. -Directed by their masters. -And, for some reason, The fire beast consumed its' master… And without direction, or purpose… It was able to be destroyed…" She nodded. That sounded like a cautionary tale, if she ever heard one. -But who was to say? It happened so long ago… Valka offered a wan smile, and a comforting hand.
"You looked very lovely tonight dear! -And those pants ye sewed for Hiccup! -Ye wouldn't be feelin' a bit, -possessive would ye?" She plastered a look of shock on her face, placing a hand on her chest.
"Valka! Why… To even think of such a thing!" The older woman chuckled, as did she. She was… A little bit correct though… On this night, and even while they were yet in Arendelle, she had caught more than a few of them looking… Hiccup was a handsome, desirable man. She knew she needn't worry… It was an entirely new feeling she was still coming to grips with. This, unfathomable need to protect what was hers… This, -peculiar desire to show him off… It was another new thing she had discovered about herself…
She and Valka shared another look and a smile. Valka donned her chest-piece and shoulder guards while she busied herself for a moment in the kitchen. She grabbed her staff and placed a hand on her shoulder.
"I'll gather Fishlegs, and get Hulda fed." She nodded, and thanked her. She needed to change as well. She went up the stairs after Valka left. She started rummaging through her things and picked out some clothes. She started to remove the dress, but stopped and looked.
She had felt rather beautiful tonight. More than she had felt in a while. She wasn't vain by any stretch of the word. She was a woman, under it all… The compliments she received helped boost her a little. Over the dark clouds that had been forming on the edge of her thoughts this past week. And such compliments! While many of them were fumbling their words… She could tell they were all sincere.
That gave rise to another thought. Here, -in Berk, she never had to question what she was told, what people said to her… The vikings were honest and true, -open and sincere… If they didn't like you, or something you had said, -they'd tell you! Sometimes painfully so… Not saying one thing, and sniggering behind your back… As was true in her country. She almost always had to take each conversation apart, and analyze it. Every smile and compliment taken with a grain of salt.
She felt free here. Completely free to be herself. Free from judgment, and free in her role as a leader. She had felt the condescending tones, and bore the patronizing stares… All because she was a woman, leading a country. Not unheard of, to be sure… But still… It gave rise to yet another thought… The thought of returning…
It caused a ball of… Something, to form in her belly, weighing it slightly. It was something new, -and completely… Weird! She had been raised from a young age to rule. -To rule Arendelle. -All the lessons, all the books… The mind-numbing lectures… Everything! To prepare her for what she was born to do… To lead her country, to continue the family legacy… For as long as she was physically able…
But here… Here she felt, -so alive! A new problem to tackle… an obstacle to overcome. Every other day was a new challenge. It made her life in Arendelle seem so, -mundane! Where her toughest decisions centered around decorations, or who to invite to the next state dinner, -which exotic kinds of plants to put in the gardens… And that was before even thinking about the dragons!
Ahhh, -the dragons! Next to having Hiccup, it was her most favorite thing! She was quite the accomplished rider by now. She and Hulda could read each other in the sky. And except for the dragons' occasional distraction at something shiny, they worked well together. -Not as well as Hiccup and Toothless… But they had been at it much longer than she. -But every flight was something new. Something learned about Hulda, or herself. Maps began to take on a new meaning, as she could envision herself flying over the places they showed her.
And she had friends now! Real, actual friends! People she could chat with about, -anything! -Or confide in, when she had a particular issue, or question. And not just here on Berk, she had made friends with the Chiefs, and the heirs. -And a couple of them were women! People who understood. Both her role as a leader, and of being a woman, -and a leader. She suspected that because she wasn't the one in charge, she had more free time. She was able to pursue these friendships, and actually spend time with those people. And she suspected, -in Arendelle, -with their roles reversed, she could actually have time to herself. To catch up on her reading, or her sewing and knitting… Or an extra-long soak in the tub…
And the ease at which she and Hiccup backed each other up, -the fluidity… It almost scared her sometimes. They had seemed to develop an unspoken communication. Her time as Chief had taught her the routines, the daily cycles of happenings… When one wasn't available, the other would step in. And they had apparently, -silently, agreed to have at least one meal together. Most times, it was two… Either in the hall, or at their home. To have some quiet time together, and to split up tasks and responsibilities. She had no doubt, that once they returned to Arendelle, this would continue. He would learn the routines, and they would work together, -just as seamlessly…
The ball began forming in her belly again… Then it hit her like a bolt of lightning. She didn't want to go back! -After everything… She thought she should be horrified, -but she wasn't. It was what she was born to do… All she ever thought of, -for so long… But Hiccup, and the dragons… She had been shown so much… It had still yet to be discussed, -how this would work… The archipelago needed him, and her people needed her, -or did they? Anna was doing so well… And, -should she? - Could she? -Leave it all… She supposed there could be some kind of arrangement. She and Hiccup could rule their respective countries together, allowing for time together… The dragons would make it so much easier… But then… The dragons…
She had only caught the tail end of Hiccups' conversation with the Admiral. The dragons would stay here, he'd said. If she only thought on it for a bit, -yes… She had heard the stories, and had gotten a small glimpse of the terrible power they possessed. It would be a force all on its' own… Much like her own powers. Nothing could stand against it… A terrible temptation… And these were not some machines, created by man. They were beautiful creatures, -intelligent, with minds and hearts of their own. And as with most things anymore… Something to be corrupted, -abused, and twisted into something horrible…
Yes! It was the correct choice… The only one in her mind now. -But how, how would it all work out? What, or who, for that matter would decide? -And when? She supposed, -after all this was over, -when things had calmed down… She huffed to herself. He she was, musing… There were so many more important things…
She stepped out of her shoes. Then reached behind and undid the buttons. She stepped out of the dress, but held it up for a moment, and sighed… Time to put you away for now, old friend… She mused. She heard the door to the hall open, then uneven footsteps on the stairs… It could only be…
Hiccup came purposefully through the door, and crossed the room. She could tell by the furrowed brow, the downcast eyes, -he was heavily in thought. He did manage to give her a peck on the cheek as he crossed in front of her. He went to a corner of the room and picked out a heavy pair of pants, and a long-sleeved tunic. He backed up, and sat on a chair at his desk. He pulled off the boot and stood. Reaching down, he pulled the tunic over his head, and tossed it in a corner. He then worked at the strings, and pulled his pants down. He stepped out of them, and tossed them in a corner too…
She couldn't help the giggle that escaped her lips. It grabbed his attention. His eyes went wide for a moment. His eyes quickly scanned her from head to toe. Although it was quick, she also couldn't help the flush that ran all the way from her toes to her head, a small ball of heat formed at her core. His mouth started to curl, into that smile. -That half-crooked, wonderful smile that was only hers. He seemed to blush a bit too. His embarrassment was confirmed as he spoke…
"I, -ahhh… I guess, we, -ummm…" A small laugh escaped her again. Yes, they were entirely comfortable with each other. Here they stood, he in his underwear, she in hers… In the same room, and they were laughing at each other. They were acting like, -like… a married couple… She supposed… He took a step, then another. Almost timidly, as he would approach a dragon, she mused. But she wasn't going anywhere… although… She could attack him… The heat at her core flared at the thought.
He reached her and brought a hand up. She felt it lightly brush through her hair, then softly caress her cheek. She was given to darkness as his hand made its' way down her jaw to her neck, and stop on her shoulder. Concentrating only on the feeling of his caress, and the thrumming in her body it created. She only then realized she had closed her eyes. She looked up at him. The way he was looking at her… The heat at her core threatened to explode. He bent down slowly. They traded one, then two, then one more sweet, soft kisses. He gulped, then opened his mouth.
"I, -I wanted to tell you… I had been meaning all night… To, -to tell you how beautiful you looked. -I, -could hardly breathe when you walked into the room…" Oh this man! He was in for it, he truly was. She bit her lip against the face-splitting smile that threatened.
"And you Sir! You had quite the, -fagar líkami- on you as well!" He shrugged.
"Eh, it was only the clothes!" Her heart nearly blew up in her chest. She blushed, and scrunched her shoulders at the compliment. It meant so much more coming from him! They shared another look, one that expressed feelings mere words could not. They then realized there were more important things at hand. He squeezed her shoulder, then turned back to his clothes. She looked at the dress one more time before folding it. She sighed audibly.
"Oh Hiccup! All those people… It's a shame the celebration was ruined!" He huffed after a moment. She looked, -that smile was on his face again…
"Ahhh, -Excuse me Miss! I thought we had agreed some time ago! -We were to have anything but a normal life!" He smiled as did she. She stamped her foot vehemently.
"Dammit! And here I thought my life was going to be me, -sitting on my butt, eating chocolate and drinking wine all day, -while you showered me with gifts!" He chuckled.
"Well, I can still shower you with gifts…" She smiled and lidded her eyes.
"Indeed you will… SIR! If you know what's good for you!" He laughed and shook his head. They shared another look, then turned to their clothes. She had finished, while he started donning his flight suit and armor. She helped, adding a few extra touches, and needlessly smoothing the straps. When he'd finished, she stood there for a moment looking for anything out of place. Her eyes finally landed on his face…
She took a half-step in. Her hands instinctively went to his chest, then slowly slid upwards to his shoulders. She rose up on her toes, and planted a soft, loving kiss to his cheek. He followed her down, his hand cupping her cheek. He placed a soft kiss to her forehead. Her hands curled around his neck, they then rested their foreheads together. Savoring this final moment before, -before… Well, before!
They broke apart and smiled at each other. She grabbed her staff, while he grabbed his sword, and clipped it on. He followed her down the stairs and out of the door. People were all walking about, shouting and barking orders. It seemed that the preparations were fully underway. That heavy ball formed in her belly again, -until she spotted their dragons. They were waiting -somewhat patiently on the grass. She could almost feel their excitement. Toothless wriggled at spotting them.
Something, -odd happened as they bounded toward them. They crossed paths, -Hulda to him, and Toothless to her… He huffed and barked as he stopped in front of her and pushed his snout into her belly. She laughed and scratched him fondly. He had just eaten, if his heavily fishy breath was any indication. She grabbed his jaw and fixed him with a look.
"Take care of him Toothless! We'll see you later…" He huffed twice then crooned softly. She bent down and placed a loving kiss on his nose. His eyes crossed. He wiggled his nose a bit and gave her a toothy smile. His tongue darted out, and gave her a small lick to the face. A laugh exploded from her lips unbidden. She placed a hand on his head and looked…
Hiccup was resting his head against Huldas' beak. His eyes were closed as were hers. He was tenderly, -lovingly caressing and scratching her jaw. He broke apart, and murmured something softly to her. She couldn't hear what it was. Hulda trilled softly, and licked, then nuzzled him. Their eyes met. They closed the gap between them. He took her hands in his a placed a kiss on each. She spoke first.
"I love you, Hiccup!" He nodded.
"And I you, Elsa! I'll see you there!" She nodded, and placed a hand on his cheek. She turned. Hulda squatted and she climbed into the saddle. After securing her staff, she urged Hulda. She leapt, and with a few wing-beats, they were in the air, Fishlegs and Valka following. One last look over her shoulder, and they were gone…
The flight over was uneventful. They needed speed, but Meatlug, -wasn't a very fast flier. They made good time and soon enough she was standing in front of Jórunna. She bowed respectfully.
"Jórunna? We have a need. The Fýr brundi… She has struck. She has attacked a human village, and used her dragons to hide her retreat." She raised up, while her eyes flitted a bit.
"I need a flock to go with Fishlegs here, to help bring them healing, and comfort… Hitta huggan. I need another to go with Valka and myself. To protect our dragons, and the humans, should the need arise." She seemed to study her for a bit. Then her eyes seemed to glaze over. She felt and heard the thrumming. The dragons started to stir, their calls seemed to grow as a rising storm. Soon, a large cloud of dragons were flying over their heads. She tipped her head deeply.
"Thank you, Jórunna!" She had another thought, but she wasn't sure how to ask…
"Jórunna? It is not the masters' wish… We merely mean to drive her away… But I fear we might… She may have to be destroyed… F ý r brundi, neinn fall a , J ó runna… Nienn hata brundi…" Jórunna looked away, slightly turning her head. Her eyes wandered a bit. She seemed to be thinking on it. After a few moments, the dragon returned her gaze.
" F Ý R BRUNDI… F Á RBJ ÓÐ R! J Ó RUNNA HLIFA… ALLR HLIFA!" It was more than she could have hoped for. She again tipped her head, then turned to Fishlegs.
"Gather the dragons you need. Take some to Berk, the rest take to the Bogburglars. -And remember! No one is to know… If Bertha or Camicazi pressure you, have them come to me!" He nodded.
"Of course, Elsa!" He turned and mounted Meatlug. He flew over their heads and gathered about twenty dragons. He left shortly after. The flock that remained still flew over their heads. Jórunna had already left it seemed. Valka placed a hand on her shoulder, a questioning look on her face.
"She said she would protect… All protect, she said…" Valka nodded.
"She will look after those of her nest then. As far as we are concerned…" She shrugged her shoulders. After this was over she would spend more time here. Try to get a better grasp on what Jórunna could understand. She should have done it sooner… But… She shook her head. The die was cast, she would have to help where she could, and wait for the storm. They mounted their dragons, and flew to the edge of the flock. There were a least a hundred animals there. She was glad for Valkas' company, although she suspected she wouldn't need help. She stood in the stirrups and called out in a commanding voice.
"All of you! Follow me!" She was answered by a cacophony of dragon calls. She flew towards the entrance. A quick look back confirmed they were all following. They made their way out of the tunnel and into the night sky…
He could see the glow… They had been seeing the glow for some time now. He knew what it meant. A glance over at Snotlout confirmed he knew too. He knew what had to be done. There could be repercussions, but he didn't care. He was sure when they finally arrived, his choice would be confirmed as the right one. Given that, he could deal with the consequences.
He looked over at the young girl, her eyes were wide in disbelief. She suspected, but how could she know? She was only a small child when the war ended. She had no real knowledge of the dragon raids, -no experiences like they had. Maybe she could have a few vague memories… She would come to know later… He spoke to her.
"Go find him, -and bring him to me!" She nodded, then tilted her head slightly.
"Do I have to be gentle?" It was a valid question. He shrugged his shoulders.
"Be respectful! Make sure he doesn't soil himself until you get there!" An evil grin crossed her face. She and Biscuit banked off to the left. Snotlout looked back, then at him. He opened his mouth then closed it. He would find out soon enough.
They reached the island and made a circuit around the village. It was as Raneigh said. Nearly every home was burning. The very ground burned in some spots. Barns, halls, and sheds… Nearly all of it. He could see Dogsbreaths' people helping. Dragons were flying in from the harbor carrying bags of water, to be released from above the flames to douse them. It had been an idea of Fishlegs, and hammered out between Trófastr and himself. It was helping, but not nearly enough. There were very few spots where white smoke replaced black. There were four of them, it looked like they would need more…
He spotted what looked like Dogsbreath in the square. He was talking animatedly to a couple of people in the square. Pointing this way and that. He couldn't see Bergulfr. He directed Toothless down in a spiral. He landed a few feet away. Dogsbreath strode up to him.
"We haven't been at it very long, but we're making progress!" He nodded.
"We managed to save most of the food, and at least half of the armory, -but the mill and the forge are complete losses I'm afraid…" He nodded again.
"What about the people?" He looked down for a moment, then back. His features were grim.
"There's… There's so many…" His eyes seemed to glaze over for a moment. He chanced a quick glance around. Some of the, -what used to be houses bordering the square were but smoldering now. He noticed here and there black spots on the ground. A charred ribcage sat in one. Somebody's -pet? -Or a lamb? And in one of the piles of ruined lumber, a twig stuck out from it. As he looked though, it… it wasn't a twig, nor any other type of… It was a human limb, charred and blackened. A small breeze wafted, bringing the smell… He fought the urge to wretch. And the heat was stifling! He was about to give Snotlout some direction, when he was interrupted by a roar. It wasn't a dragon…
"HADDOCK!" Bergulfr strode purposely across the square. A look of pure murder in his eyes. With a speed that entirely surprised him, he crossed the last dozen feet between them in a wink. He grabbed him by his armor, and bodily raised him off the ground. He held him there.
"What're ye thinkin'? Is this how ye treat friends? Is this ta be our reward fer sidin wi' ye? Ta have ye come in the night and murder us all?" He growled, then roared. All his angst was gathered as he tossed him away from him. He landed on his back, dazed and winded from the impact. He looked up. His eyes seemed to glow with rage.
"I thought ye an honorable man! But this! I'd never thought ye'd stoop as low as a sneak attack! Ye father'd be ashamed of ye! Ye DOG!" His own anger flared. How dare he! Snotlout took issue as well. He stepped in front of the Chief. He saw his hand drop to his belt where his hammer was hooked. His other hand went to Bergulfrs' chest. He growled.
"If you were not a friend of an allied Chief… You would pay with your head for saying that! We… We didn't have anything to do with this!" Dogsbreath spoke, placing a hand on the enraged Chieftain too.
"Aye, Bergulfr! It's true! We were all at a party this night! We were celebratin' the Haddocks betrothal to the Queen Elsa!" This gave him pause for a brief moment. But then he started to struggle against the men in front of him.
"Ye expect me ta believe that? -Haddock! I'm gonna gouge yer eyes out, and piss in yer skull! Ye munge-bucket!" Just then there was a screech and a couple of roars from above. One was human. He had heard that one a few times as a child…
"HOLD!" Bertha and Thuggory landed heavily in the square. They lit off their dragons and rushed over. They took positions between him and Bergulfr. The man seemed confused.
"B, -Bertha? Ye were in on it too?" She scoffed.
"Bah! In on what? Ye daft man! We was on Berk! A-havin' us a nice little Thing we was! -Until we'd heard…" He looked from one to the other. He seemed to relax a bit. Thuggory nodded and spoke.
"Chief? It's as they say… We were all there…" He looked again.
"Qu, -Queen Elsa?" Bertha titled her head. He could feel her rolling her eyes.
"The Lady Kirsten? -It seems she's a Southern Queen after all! And young Hiccup here means ta marry her!" He looked again, and relaxed some more. He took a half step back and rolled his shoulders, then his head. He picked himself off the ground. Nothing was broken, but his head… His head throbbed. He locked eyes with Bergulfr. He nodded slightly.
"What happened?" He asked him. He turned slightly, then looked down as though gathering his thoughts…
"We were all settlin' in fer the night. The lookouts said… They never heard 'em, -til they were upon us… It, -it was madness! There 'ad to be a 'undred of 'em! They all swooped in here… They took nearly all our livestock, -more from the pastures… A great swarm of 'em!" He looked away again and took a breath. He thought he detected a slight shake…
"They took what they wanted, -and left… It was a few minutes later when we 'eard it… Its', - it's roar shook the very ground! Rattled the walls… Pierced yer very skull it did! -And the fire… We, -we never got a good look at it… Anyone that did… Is probably dead now! -Like a huge… Cloud of flame… And so much of it! I never saw a dragon that could… All of that!" He shook his head and winced a little. He himself was convinced.
"Bergulfr? I believe this was the work of a Red Death. The same kind of dragon we defeated those years ago… The one that caused the other dragons to raid us." His eyes went wide. He had not been to dragon island after the battle. The others here had. He imagined there had been tales told about it.
"-All that, -destruction! It burned the boats in the harbor… The docks… So much… Fire!" He closed his eyes and shook his head. When he opened them, they were bright. He fixed him with an almost pleading look.
"Hiccup? If, -if it wasn't you… Who… Who would unleash such a thing?" He couldn't say for sure but… He heard a noise on the wind. -Some one, -shouting, -cursing… He looked out, -and… There! A Nadder was approaching them. It was a good ways up in the sky. He then saw it tuck in its' wings and dive. He heard a scream. The dragon unfurled its' wings about sixty feet from the ground, the big show-off! Its' legs swung out and released something from its' grip…
The bundle bounced a couple of times, and rolled to a stop about a dozen feet from them. The Nadder landed, then squatted on its' haunches, looking mighty proud of himself. Gjaflaug unhooked an axe, and slid off his saddle. She strode up, and took a knee in front of them. The bundle sat up, its' legs splaying. It twisted and turned… He finally managed to throw the blanket off… Röngvaldr looked up at them all.
"What… What's goin' on 'ere?" He spluttered. He got on his feet. It was then he seemed to notice… His eyes then went wide, and his mouth dropped open. He turned a full circle, coming around to look at them all incredulously.
"What? -What happened here?" He was a little irritated.
"Suppose you tell us, -Röngvaldr? What did happen here?" He spluttered.
"I… What, -what do you mean? I don't… you…" He stamped down his anger. Bergulfr spoke.
"Hiccup? Wh, -what…" He sighed.
"It seems your friend here made a deal with someone from outside the archipelago, to take care of our dragon problem… Only, I don't think he counted on them turning on him… Having his own village raided, -his good friends burned…" He scoffed.
"I, -it's you! Everyone knows it's YOU! You control them! -You, -you're the cause of all this!" He took a deep, calming breath. Why, -oh why…
"OK, for like, -the thousandth time! I DON'T CONTROL THEM! -And even if I did, -it's YOU that I would burn first! Not someone who was actually TRYING to get along with the dragons! Tell me who it is, and where they are now…" He scoffed again.
"I don't know what yer on about! They ain't no deals been struck! Its' you! Yer jus' lookin' fer an excuse ta take our land, our homes!" He was losing his patience. He would ask one more time.
"Please, Röngvaldr… I have no desire… I have no need of land, nor power… My, -my only concern, -my only charge is the dragons. I have no desire to sit on any kind of throne, or be king of, -anything. I only seek to bring dragons, and people together… Please! -Tell me where they are, so we can avoid further bloodshed… On both sides!" His face hardened into a scowl. He turned his head a spat.
"Bah! Dragons! It's unnatural says I! It offends the Gods! It does! Yer minds have been poisoned by 'em! The sooner they're all gone, the better off we'll be! And this, -this -whore from the south who calls herself a queen! She'll use this sorcery of hers, and kill us all!" THAT did it! He would abide many things, but speaking against her… Especially calling her -that! He'd had quite enough! Instinct took over. His hand went down in a flash. He grabbed his sword, and pushed the buttons. The blade came out and ignited. He took a step back… It was all he could do not to strike.
"TELL ME! -DAMN YOU! Or I swear by the GODS! I WILL BURN YOU TO THE GROUND WHERE YOU STAND!" His eyes went wide. He held the blade close enough for him to feel the heat. A voice rang out from his left.
"Tell him father!" The voice sounded familiar. But he refused to take his eyes off of Röngvaldr. His eyes were flitting between his face and the blade. He turned his head slightly.
"Ye keep outta this, Boy! We have nothing to say to them!" He caught the soft sound of flapping wings. And felt the gust of air. At least two dragons had landed.
"TELL HIM! -Or I will!" His face twisted. His eyes took on a murderous glow.
"You'll say nothing! Ye are not chief yet… I am! And while I live and breathe… Ye will remain silent!" Two figures entered his peripheral. One he knew was Tárr…
"Ahhh! Ye speak as if that'd be a long, long time from now, husband! Fer someone with a blade to their throat!" His wife, Birla… He almost felt sorry for him…
"Father? You will die someday, and I will be Chief… Look around… Is this what you want me to inherit? Is it not clear enough? I have been shown, father… Dragons… Aren't like this! It is only because of these foreigners that this happened! They, -their dragons raided us! And now, they have attacked our only friend here in the archipelago! No! I will not remain silent, while you condemn our own people to death!" He roared and made to move. He lowered the blade slightly, and touched it to his chest. He yelped, then growled in frustration.
"Ye will be silent! By the Gods! I'd kill ye where ye stood… I'll kill ye both!" Birla shouted.
"You'll do no such thing! I'll not allow you to touch my son! The Haddock here, aye! And Dogsbreath… They have shown us peace! -A real, lasting peace… If you would but have listened. And I will have my son live long enough ta see it! Where he can be Chief! -And grow old and give me grand-babies! -I told ye months ago! What have they given us, aye? Nothing! All they've done is take, and take more… And what do ye suppose will happen when there's nothing left for them ta take? How will we ourselves survive after they've taken evr'thing?" His eyes flitted back and forth. He knew what needed done… He retracted his blade and took another step back. He looked at the two sisters standing by their dragons…
"Take him!" They nodded and moved forward. Röngvaldrs' head twisted back and forth. He spoke in a loud, clear voice.
"I do not recognize you as Chief! You are confined to your island! If you should leave… You will be killed on sight! -All those in favor?" A chorus of ayes erupted from behind him.
"Opposed?" None spoke up. "It is done! Tárr? I recognize you as interim Chief, until such time as your council gives approval! Birla? Would you please go with them? Gather all the healing supplies you can spare… Food, and blankets… I'll send my mother." She nodded, Röngvaldr spluttered
"YE, -ye canna do tha'! I'll no be takin' orders from the likes of you, ye dog! -Ye scum! -And I'll no be ridin' one of those nasty beasts!" He couldn't help the slight curl of his mouth.
"No? Well everyone else here is taking orders… And no one is going to force you to ride… I'll give you one more chance… Tell me where they are! And maybe they won't, -accidentally- drop you in the water on the way there!" His eyes went wide, he opened his mouth a few times, and looked down.
"Lokis' Pile…" He wasn't familiar with that particular… His thoughts were distracted by a hissing noise, and a slight change in the lighting… But he wasn't done yet…
"He said… He said he would rid the islands of the dragons, -and you! Said he had a way to control them, -make them do what he wanted… Like you… And when you were all done, he would give me the whole of it!" He cast his eyes down.
"And ye believed 'em? Ye daft fool!" Bergulfr said. "He would take the whole archipelago… And just, give it to ye? Just like that?" Röngvaldr didn't look up. He stared at the ground. This had inklings of something bigger… But what? With a Red Death at their command… But no, Dragons, any type of dragon, couldn't be commanded. As he had thought about it over the past weeks… The Red Death they faced all those years ago… It reeked of malice, and ill intent. It was a very bad dragon. And much like the Screaming Death, couldn't, -nor wouldn't be controlled by any means…
"And who was it tha' told ye this?" Bergulfr asked. He heard that, -hissing noise again. It was starting to irritate him. Röngvaldr paused before he spoke.
"His name is Viggo. -Viggo Grimbold, -and his brother, Ryker. -And one other, I think. I never got a name, never met him… But they talked about another…" That made sense. -So the brothers were back! And they brought some one else along… But who?-And that, noise? What was it? He looked around. There was a ruin close by, white smoke rising from it. So the fires were still being put out…
He heard the hissing noise again. He turned quickly and caught a glimpse of something falling from the sky. He looked up, but there was no dragon… It was, -odd! He scanned the sky, and there! There was a Gronkle, but it carried no bag… It was then he spotted… It looked like a cloud, -all by itself, but it was moving… Moving against the breeze! He watched as it moved over a burning building. As the fire lit it up… It looked like it… It shimmered in the firelight. Sparkled with thousands of tiny lights.
Without warning, it dropped onto the building. The fire within hissed and crackled. Voicing its' protest at being snuffed. Sparks flew into the air. The fire huffed a few times, then it was smothered. He scanned the skies again, and spotted another. He followed it with his eyes, then started walking, then trotting after it. The others followed. It stopped over another house. Its' roof had collapsed, and the door was open. The cloud hung over for a moment again, and then dropped on the house. It looked like a hundred tiny pebbles skittered across the ground. A few landed at his feet. He bent down, and picked it up… It was ice!
He held the pebble in his hand. It was about a half-inch across, and clear. Trofastr, and Bergulfr had picked one up too. They were looking curiously at the ice in their hands. It didn't take much thinking for him to figure… It was Elsa! Ahhh! That woman! It was awesome, and brilliant! Ach! If she were here, he would have to kiss her until she forgot her name… He smiled.
"Well, -It would seem my betrothed is hard at work!"
She was tired. Well, -not completely… A little spent. It had not taken a great effort to move the ice around, but she had to be careful not to drop it on a person. To only put it where it was most needed. Her efforts had paid off. All the biggest fires were out. The rest could be taken care of by the others. She sat in Huldas' saddle attempting to relax and calm herself. It wasn't easy…
She had landed on a sea-stack, about three miles from the village. She could see it clearly from where she was at. She was shocked. An animal that could cause so much destruction… It had to be large indeed! -But Hiccup did say… She had been pondering on how she could help, when Jórunna breached behind her. It became clear with little thought. She asked her for her ice. She called on her powers, and was able to dissect it. She sent over masses of it and dropped it on the largest flames. She turned in the saddle.
Her mind was all jumbled. The tasks that needed to be performed here, tending the wounded, directing people and supplies… And also, the preparations that were needed back on Berk, -if they ever got back. The approaching battle… She hoped, possibly against hope, that her people would fare well. Eugene, the Captain… She sent a prayer, asking the Gods to be good, and merciful. And for the sake of everyone, and the dragons… That they would be victorious.
Something else was eating, niggling at the back of her mind. It was familiar, but then… not. It was similar to the feeling she remembered on that fateful day in Arendelle. When Jórunna showed herself. She wondered after… was it merely the distance between them? Her and, -whatever this was? Although now, she was nearly always aware of Jórunna. She could tell if she was resting, or active, and if she was close, -or not.
She also wondered if it was this other dragon they sought. This, -Red Death. And if it was, -could she possibly… No, she was no more in control of Jórunna than any other… She may possibly be able to communicate with it… But not control. She tried to grasp, and focus… Hurt, pain, confusion. Malice? Lost, -no… home? No, -purpose? Hurt… Not just, -physical, but also… It was elusive, like trying to pluck a single drop of water from the ocean. She turned her attention to Jórunna.
"Thank you! Jórunna!" The dragon huffed and nodded. She looked at the village. She straightened a little. She looked off east, then towards the south. She rose up and took a few steps, turning her whole body. She looked fully south, then east. She turned back, facing her. She fixed her with a look.
"WILL REMAIN… CLOSE…" She nodded. Jórunna then looked west, then east, and looked at her again…
"ANNARR VÉURR NÁND KÆRR…" What? Another? -Another… What ? Jórunna considered her for a few more moments before stepping back. She then turned and left her. She watched until she sunk beneath the waves. This was troubling. She needed to tell Hiccup. She nudged Hulda, and they took off.
As she neared the village, she noticed someone leaving the Great hall. They walked over, -to where Toothless was waiting… Hiccup! She swooped down lower, and circled.
"Hiccup!" They both looked up. Hiccup jumped into the saddle and were quickly in the air. They headed west, she directed Hulda to match them. When they were close enough he spoke.
"Have I told you today? -How amazing and brilliant you are?" She smiled. Her blush was lost to the dim lighting.
"I got Röngvaldr to confess! I'm going out there to take a look…" She nodded.
"I'm coming with you!" She shook his head.
"NO! Elsa!" Her anger ignited. If it were anyone else, they would be swimming by now. His tone softened.
"I need you here… They need help down there… I, -I'm just going to have a quick look. I'll be back soon, -I promise!" She nodded. It was good enough for her. What with Toothless' black coloring, and Hiccups' armor, they would be hard to spot. She directed Hulda over. She stood in the saddle. She came up to them, her head level with his knee. She placed a hand on his thigh, the other on Toothless' head. She placed a kiss on his knee. He felt him kiss her hair. She scratched the dragons' head.
"Hiccup… Come back to me!" I love you went unsaid… He knew. He nodded. Toothless crooned, and nudged her with his head. Hulda trilled and squawked. They separated, still standing in the saddle. She held a finger up, and called to both of them.
"Both of you! Stay out of trouble!" Her tone was only half-warning. Toothless warbled, that smile was on Hiccups' face. He placed a hand on his chest, and bowed.
"As My Queen commands!" Oooh that man! She could think of… but no, there were other things. She dropped back into the saddle, and with a final look, she peeled off. They landed in the square in front of the Great Hall. Fishlegs came up to her.
"Elsa? Our boats will be arriving shortly!" She nodded.
"There is a large flock of dragons on the other side of the island here, in two clearings…" He nodded.
"I'll take some grass, and look after them!" She nodded. She looked around. All this… carnage! It was too much! All this loss… All because someone wanted after something that didn't belong to them. A small breeze wafted, bringing the smell to her nostrils. -Burnt flesh, and hair… She fought the urge to wretch. A hand came to rest upon her shoulder…
"Elsa? Are ye alright?" She fought against the bile rising in her throat. She turned. Bertha was looking at her, -truly concerned, her lips in a tight line. She nodded.
"I, -I'm OK…" She nodded not convinced. She took a deep breath.
"This is yer first? Is it not?" She nodded. She always knew the possibility was there, -that one day, she might have to look upon such a scene. She thought she was prepared…
"Look then, it doesn't get any easier…" She could only imagine. And this wasn't over yet. Her eyes fell upon a child's toy, laying half-burned on the path. Her heart clenched. Where was that child now?
There's just… it's… Too much!" Bertha nodded. She drew in a breath and released it.
"Elsa! Take a look around… Aye! Take a good look…" She did as she was told. It was heartbreaking. All those homes, and the lives within…
"This! -This is the fate we all face! And it would come to pass… For all of us! -IF! We sat around, and did nothing! Ach, sure ye might talk yer way out of it, for a time… But someone, bent on this type of destruction… There is only one choice! -Aye?" She nodded. She was right. She hated the idea of causing something like this to another. But they couldn't just stand by and allow it. They must pursue those that did this! And ensure it didn't happen again. Gobber walked up. He locked eyes with her. He held her gaze for a moment, then looked around, surveying the damage.
"Idiots!" He said to no one in particular. He sighed heavily.
"Ya know? Any idiot with a torch can burn down a 'ouse… Any moron with a hammer can tear down a wall…" He paused.
"But it takes people with skill, and knowledge… and a vision. Ta build 'em back up again…" He looked around again, finally returning his gaze to her. He smiled warmly. She couldn't help but return it. Yes, after this was over, they would rebuild. Possibly better than it was… She steeled herself.
"I'm going to the Great Hall, -should anybody need me." They nodded. She gathered herself as she walked up the stairs. The sight that followed as she opened the doors made her breath hitch. There were so many… On tables, and benches, and on palettes on the floor. There was no more room… All these people! -And was this all that were left? She had noted the lack of people outside… It was quite the bustling village when she had visited… Her eyes started to sting.
As she looked around she noticed nearly everyone was staring at her. They could use some words, but her throat was closed up. It was so heartbreaking! She didn't notice Marta until she stood in front of her and had grabbed her arms.
"Elsa! How good of you to come!" It broke the rest of her stupor. It was like she was welcoming her to a party. She gave her an apologetic look.
"Thank you! I. -I don't have many skills…" She smiled warmly.
"Nor I, but we must do what we can!" She nodded. After being shown around a bit, she turned to doing just that. She assisted the healers. The Goethi and Brunhilda had joined them at some point, and a few others she recognized as her people, then realized they were doctors from the outlying ships. She helped with water and broths and stew. And comforting words and hands.
She wasn't sure how long she'd been there when the door burst open. Timothy stood there with a bundle in his arms. Camicazi, and a few other women behind him. They were ushered off into a corner. She finished handing out a few mugs of stew, and made her way over.
She was a mess. She bled from several cuts. The whole right side of her face was swollen, her eye had closed. It also seemed some of her beautiful raven hair had been shorn off. -But she was alive. Timothy was nearly beside himself. Sigrlinn bid him fetch fresh water for the hall and more bandages. He left with a nod and a tender touch to Heathers' arm. She assisted the healer. Heathers' gaze came to focus on her. She painfully raised her arm. She took her hand.
"Elsa? Wh, where's Hiccup? I've got to tell him… It is a Red Death! They mean to destroy us all… Take the dragons… F, for breeding…" She shushed her gently, and bid her rest. They knew, now they just had to find it, and take care of it. They bound and stitched her wounds. She also had a broken arm, possibly broken ribs, and some issue with an ankle. She would have her moved to Berk as soon as it were possible.
She stood. At that moment, Hiccup came through the door. He looked around until their eyes met. There was no smile. He strode over, and cupped her cheek in greeting. He did smile a bit, then knelt down at Heathers' side.
"Hiccup? I, -I'm sorry! They, they took us, almost as soon as we landed… I…"
"Shhh, It's alright Heather… We'll get you to Berk in the morning!" She smiled a bit, but winced. He placed a hand on her head. Then stood. With a look, he took her hand, and led her to the small room in the back. All the Chiefs and Heirs were gathered around the table in the center with the map.
"OK! Viggos' base is here…" He indicated a larger isle more or less in the middle of the group.
"The roost is one of these two, although their dragons maybe taken to nesting on both." Two more isles, off to the north and west.
"Their ships are all hidden, in various spots among the islands. I've already been out there… Eugene will come in from the northeast, to draw them out. The Captain will sail up from the south, and harass them from behind The confusion should give us the advantage…" They all nodded.
"Thuggory, and the Berk ships will sail out, and try to create a buffer for the dragons should they come out… Bertha? You and Dogsbreath, and my mother will take a group of riders, and part of our flock to the nest. Try to take her focus off of the other dragons… If we can break her hold on them, they should just leave…" He drew in a breath.
"Elsa, Trofastr and I, will take another flock to his base. We'll draw the humans out, and… deal with them…" They nodded again. He looked upon them with all seriousness.
"It's very important that we keep the Red Deaths' focus on us! That way, it will be harder for her to use the dragons against us! Try not to harm the dragons… Try to break her hold… drive them off…" He looked around the room once more. She only now realized she had been clinging to his arm the whole time… He looked at her and smiled. A bit wanly, but a smile nonetheless… He addressed them all one more time.
"Try to get some rest, -if you can… We'll start up at first light…" A chorus of Ayes rang out. Farewells were made, shoulders clapped heartily. Nods and murmurs. She took him by the hand, and led him out. Their dragons were waiting for them in the square. She walked up to Hulda, then had a thought… She scratched her fondly and whispered. She turned around…
Hiccup was in the saddle and ready to go as she slid in behind him. She wrapped her arms around his waist, and planted a quick kiss on the side of his neck. He turned and really smiled at her this time. She buried her face into his back as Toothless leapt into the sky… She held on tightly, savoring the feel of him against her. It helped to quell the fear, -the anxiety welling up within her. She only wished to share some more quiet moments with him. Before the storm enveloped them…