She woke, -or at least she thought she did. She didn't remember falling asleep… If she even slept at all… It was extremely hard. When she did doze off, she was awakened by her dreams. Fire and ice… Snow… A great white wasteland… An odd structure in the middle of nowhere… The haunting shrieks and roars of dragons…
-And thoughts… So many thoughts flying through her mind. The preparations… The attack last night, -so many lives lost… What they were about to do this day, and what was to come after… Rebuilding of structures, -and lives. Tending the wounded that would most surely come… What she herself would do, if… If…
Those thoughts came unbidden. What would she do? If, -the most terrible thing happened? If he was lost to her… Maybe even worse still. If they were victorious, and she was lost to her powers? A cold dread crept up her spine, defying the warmth of the blankets and furs. She gripped him tighter and tilted her head slightly.
His eyes were open, staring at the ceiling. One hand was behind his head. His other arm was wrapped around her shoulder. He squeezed her gently, absently. His brow was in a light frown. He was thinking heavily. Probably much the same thoughts as her own. The plan, the allocation of resources and people. The dragons, -their keeping and feeding… And what was to come after… He looked like he had not slept well, if at all himself…
After they landed, they made sure the dragons had fed before they went in. They bathed, and had a small meal. With the seeming finality of it all, she… wanted to share herself, but she couldn't quite bring herself to do it. Her mind was elsewhere, as was his. They did share some gentle touches, and more than a few warm kisses. They crawled into bed and lay almost as they were now. He on his back, and she against his side. One arm beneath him, her head resting on his chest. His presence was soothing, but only just. The thought, the feel, and the smell of him… It kept reminding her that she had him, -at least for now…
-Only now, she caught faint stirrings outside the walls. It was time for them to get ready. They still had a busy morning before the sun even came up. She squeezed him. She felt him move, and then a kiss on her hair. She took her free hand and ran it across his chest, then down to his stomach.
"Did you sleep?" He asked quietly. She shook her head.
"No, -and you?" She felt him shake his head.
"I may have dozed off…" It almost went unsaid… She pulled her arm out from under him and propped herself up. He was still thinking some when her eyes fell on his face. His eyes met hers and he smiled, which she couldn't help return. His hand came from around his head. He caressed her cheek with the back of his finger, then traced down to her neck. It came back up and stopped under her chin. He pulled her face to his. They shared a chaste, but lingering kiss.
They separated. Her eyes roamed his face. His hair, his brow, his eyes and nose… Gods! Why, -why couldn't they just… Wait, -she could! She could call upon her ice… She could create a dome, or something… Shut the rest of the world out… While they… they… While they sat here and played around… When everyone else was counting on them. She chastised herself. -But the possibilities… It made her feel warm. Maybe after… After this was over…
She smiled at him, and leaned in. She tilted her head just so. They shared another lingering kiss. Their tongues touching each others' lightly, -teasing. She pulled back, and there was that smile… She wanted to stay here with him. Just like this. Until the world ended. There was so much undone between them, -but thankfully, not much unsaid… She loved him, and he loved her. That would hold her. Until… After…
She sat up and spun around, placing her feet on the floor. She turned around and playfully drug him out of bed. They had a quick meal of fish, bread, and cheese. They shared looks and smiles, but didn't really say anything to each other. When they finished, they went back upstairs. She picked out a light blue pair of leggins and a paler blue tunic. She then tied on a studded leather skirt. It was shorter than she usually wore… They had finished at the same time. He had on a pair of leather pants, and his green tunic. Both were recent additions to his wardrobe, thanks to her. He smiled that smile, and cocked an eyebrow. Something was up!
He went to a corner of the room and brought out two cloth-wrapped packages. The first was a heavy leather shirt. It was soft as deerskin, and sewn with a pattern of rectangles. Inside were actually plates of metal. Gronkle Iron, he told her. Light but incredibly strong. It was lined with white fox fur. She didn't need the insulation, but it was beautiful. The fur poked out from the collar and cuffs. He helped put it on, and fasten the straps in the back. He placed his hands on her shoulders and kissed her tenderly on the neck.
The next package was a pair of shoulder guards. They were fastened together with two plates. Designed to protect her chest and back. The shoulder pieces were made from Nadder scales, fastened to metal, and lined with soft leather. They appeared to be Huldas' scales, if she had to guess. The chest piece was actually two pieces that fastened in the front. She looked down as he tightened the straps. On the left plate was etched his Night Fury sigil, on the right, a crocus. It was the symbol of her royal line. He must have remembered it from his time there. She couldn't help but feel a little, -branded by the presence of his mark, but in this case, it was quite alright with her.
When he finished, he stepped back. His eyes roamed from her feet to her head. She felt a little flush of heat at the thought. His eyes met hers and he smiled. He then took two steps toward her, and took her hands in his…
"I, -I was going to make you a helmet too… I guess, -I ran out of time…" She smiled.
"It's alright Hiccup. It's beautiful! And I know why you did it!" She reached up and cupped his cheek. He leaned into the contact, then turned his head, and kissed her palm. Her hand slid to his chest. They shared a look, before he turned to see to his armor. He donned the fight suit. She helped with the straps, and some of the buttons. He then put on his shoulder armor. She helped him finish. She ran her hands across his shoulders to his chest. Her fingers brushed something under the chest plate…
She lifted, and tapped the spot with her fingers. She looked at him, wondering what it might be. He smiled and reached up. Sliding his hands into the leather, he brought out his crystal. It seemed to be glowing slightly all on its' own. He smiled when she looked up at him, then his eyes widened slightly.
"Where's yours?" He asked. She walked over to the bed and grabbed her belt off the bedpost. She brought it over and showed him. Hers was glowing too. He reached up and undid one of the straps on her chest-plate. He took his crystal, and slid it into a pocket just underneath the armor. He smiled wanly, and shrugged his shoulders.
"Its', -it's where I always keep mine…" Next to his heart… She thought. She bit her lip, and slid hers into its' pocket. Securing the tie that held it, while he fastened the strap on her chest-plate. Her hands rested on his chest. She looked in his eyes, then raised up on her toes and kissed him gently. They stood there for a few moments. A thought crossed her mind.
"Hiccup? I, -the… last time I went to the Lavalouts, I had to use my powers… to, -defend myself. -And after to restrain Röngvaldr. I should've known better… I was upset, and angry…" He nodded. His eyes narrowed a bit.
"I felt myself slipping a little. Losing myself… I, -I…" His hand came up and brushed her hair and cheek a little. It calmed her.
"It was you… Thoughts of you that stopped me. That brought me back, That kept me from slipping away completely…" He nodded again.
"I have no doubt, that at some point today, I will have to use them again. To defend myself, to protect the dragons, and those I love. -As you know, there is always a risk… I, -I fear…" She closed her eyes tightly and her face fell. She fought with everything in her not to cry. -Not now… A single tear did escape, it was almost too much…
"Hiccup? -I want you to promise me something!" He gathered her hands in his and nodded.
"If, -if something should happen… If I, -if I lose myself, if I should lose control… I want you to come for me! Seek me out, and make me see you!" He looked her deeply in the eyes and nodded.
"Of course Elsa! -Always!" They embraced tightly. She breathed the words against his chest to his heart.
"I love you Hiccup!" His voice, his words vibrated against her cheek, -bored into her very soul…
"And I love you Elsa!" They stood there in each others' arms. He gently rocked her. She wished she could take him with her. She didn't want to be separated from him. But she knew… The plan, -didn't… Wouldn't, -allow for it. -But she did have his crystal… Yes, -and he had hers… It would be enough…
They separated. He kissed her tenderly on the forehead. They shared a smile. He then turned and crossed the room. He grabbed his sword and clipped it on. He then attached those curious capsules to his leg… Nightmare saliva, he told her once. He then moved to a shelf and grabbed something else rolled up in cloth. He drew out what looked like writing quills without the feathers. One end was larger… A handle she supposed. He held them up to her.
"Deadly Nadder spines! -If all else fails…" His face turned grim.
"The poison doesn't react too well with human blood. It causes paralysis, then death. Go for an eye, or the neck…" She nodded. He slipped them under her chest-plate. There seemed to be a loop or hook they attached to, securing them in place.
He crossed the room again and grabbed something propped up in a corner. She had seen it before. He unwrapped it revealing a sword. The pommel was a ball of blackened metal. A plain handle… The hilt was a bright yellow metal. It could have been gold… He handed it to her.
She took it with both hands. It was incredibly light! The scabbard was relatively plain, and had two long leather straps attached to it. Looking more closely, there was his Night Fury sigil carved into one side of the hilt. On the other, the Hooligan tribal sigil. She drew the blade a few inches. It was blackened, but it shone brightly. There was a groove on either side. It looked as sharp as a childs' tongue…
"I had been experimenting with the Gronkle Iron… It's the hardest, -finest blade I've ever made… And the only one… I ruined two anvils testing it! Gobber was so mad!" He smiled on a memory.
"I, -I was going to save it for the wedding…" His face fell a little. She handed the sword back to him, and placed a hand on his arm.
"I'm sure our son will cherish it always…" She stopped as did he… As did the whole world for a moment… Such a simple statement… Spoken as a fact. Yes, there was a certain finality, -a conviction… It would come to pass… They shared a smile. She helped him strap the sword to his back. One more shared look, and they left.
There were already several people up and about. And the sun had not yet given the slightest hint yet. They found Spitelout near the Great Hall. He looked them over, tugging on a shoulder plate, and a strap. He placed a hand on each of their shoulders.
"You two don't worry 'bout us back here. Jus' do yer jobs, so I won't have ta do mine!" They nodded. He faced Hiccup placing both hands on his shoulders.
"Hiccup? -Yer father… He'll be watchin' over ye this day… I'm, -very proud ta call ye family!" He nodded and smiled.
"Thank you Uncle!" They shared a smile, he then turned to her, placing gentle hands. He looked her up and down, and smiled.
"Ahhh lass! Ye look amazin'!" She smiled widely. Her face heated.
"Take care of 'im, and ye both come back 'ere in one piece! -Wouldn't want all those preparations ta go ta waste -would we?" She smiled and placed a hand on his arm.
"Certainly not! -Uncle!" They shared a look and a smile. He bent down and tenderly kissed her forehead. He fixed her with a look.
"Go with the Gods, lass!" She nodded, then flung her arms around his neck, hugging him tightly. She whispered a thank you. They shared one more look and a smile. They found their dragons waiting patiently in the square. She noticed it the light of the few torches a crowd had gathered. With a fond scratch, she mounted, as did he. A cheer went up. "Go! Hiccup!" And "Give 'em Hel, Elsa!" They smiled at them. They shared a look, and were off.
They landed on Murderous Island a while later. The sun was still a bit from breaking the horizon. In the faint light, they could see the smoke hanging over the village as they flew in. A few buildings still smouldered gently. Riders had been sent out. They all gathered at the Great Hall, -only… The Captain and the ships from Hopeless couldn't be found. -And there was no time to waste searching.
They went over the plan. Half the riders and the flock would fly to the nest. They were to draw the other dragons out, and hopefully release them from the Queens' influence, and drive them off. The other half would ride to Viggos' base and provide cover, while they dealt with him and whoever else was involved.
Eugene would engage any ships trying to escape. The Captain, -he was supposed to engage them from another direction, -to create confusion, -but… well… It meant that they may have to sail closer, and find the ships one by one… Hiccup was against sending them in until the dragons had all been dealt with. Even with Thuggory, and the other riders providing cover, there was no guarantee of their safety. They would have to wait and see. It was a troubling development… She hoped nothing had happened to them. She had a small, hopeful thought that he had sailed ahead… But she couldn't be sure… Hiccup looked them all over one more time.
"Now, you will all have one dragon with you. They should protect your ship should any of the others attack. Thuggory and the Berk ships will try to distract, and or capture as many of their dragons as possible. The only problem is numbers… If the riders going to the nest are successful, it may not be an issue… Now remember! These dragons won't be themselves… Try not to harm them. Just, -drive them away, if you can." They nodded. Eugene spoke.
"-And what about this, -Queen? There doesn't seem to be much we can do against her…" Hiccup nodded.
"You're right. The riders will try to keep her contained at the nest. If they can't… Try not to attract too much attention to yourselves. The riders will pursue her and keep her distracted. Try to put some distance between you and her… We'll just have to go after the ships once we've dealt with her." He nodded, then looked at Hiccup. He opened his mouth, then closed it. His question was lost for now.
They went over a few more things. Murderous was to be the staging area. Wounded or captured humans and dragons would be brought here. If all else failed, they were to use the dragons and the ships to contain the whole of the small group of islands, and ensure nothing went in or out without being spotted. The riders were briefed. They were to go for the Queens' wings, distract her with noise. If she couldn't fly, she would be easier to track. -Or at least it would slow her down greatly. A group would fly back here after the task at the nest was complete. They would guard the island if things went badly, and tend after any dragons that were brought there. They would also fly messages and supplies…
They broke the meeting. Eugene pulled Hiccup aside. She continued to the door, offering words of encouragement, and promising a great feast would be held after. She noticed another tender farewell between Gjaflaug and Dogsbreath. Another something to be dealt with after, including their own… well, she really didn't want to think about that right now… They joined her as did Snotlout. Hiccup joined them after a few moments and she had a warm farewell with Eugene. He jumped on to Tindr, and they were off. The riders gathered around. Valka, Bertha, Dogsbreath, and Camicazi would ride to the nest. Trófastr, Gjaflaug, and Snotlout would come with them to the base, taking half of their flock with them. They would fly low, so they would not be spotted until they were on top of them. They would deal with any ships that were there, and the humans. Capture them, or at least contain them, while they dealt with the leadership.
-And if the Red Death should show up, they were to try to cripple her. She could tell he found the idea distasteful, but it was what was needed. They couldn't allow her to escape. She would continue to be a threat, even after they had dealt with the ones who caused this. She shot a look at him. She had noticed he hadn't mentioned Jórunna. Perhaps he didn't think she would show up… Yes, it was better this way. They couldn't be sure after all…
They broke apart. More goodbyes were said. Valka had a warm hug for them both. A knot began to form in her stomach as she watched them go. She went to Hiccups' side. His hand automatically grasped hers. It helped, as did the smile he gave her when he finally looked at her. They walked to their dragons… There was one more thing…
She stopped and spun him around. She took a few steps back, and called on her magic. It snaked out from her hand and swirled around him. She created armor for his torso, covering the places his regular armor did not. She also created pieces for his thighs and shins, and also for his arms. He looked down, then back at her. Pure wonder in his eyes… And that smile! He nodded at her after a moment.
"Now you!" She smiled, and did much the same for herself. She also created something for all of their party when Snotlout spoke up. She wasn't sure if it would hold up, but she made it as hard and durable as she knew how. At least they would be more protected than they were. She shared a look with Hiccup. For how long, she couldn't say. -A few moments, -hours… Until Snotlout reminded them it was time. They climbed on their dragons, and were off.
The sun started its climb above the horizon as they came closer. It would be a fine day. And except for the great flock of dragons following, and that, -ball of something in her stomach, they could be flying to a gathering somewhere. Not much was said, but she managed to steal a few looks over at Hiccup. He was deep in thought. No doubt preparing, and thinking out all possible outcomes. She nudged Hulda, and flew her closer. Her wingtip almost hit him in the face before he looked and smiled. Toothless crooned and tilted his head. He bent down and scratched his neck and said something. They shared a smile.
She looked back ahead. There seemed to be… Yes, columns of smoke rising in the air in the distance. Something was happening. They shared a look. Toothless flew a little closer.
"I'm going ahead to take a look." She nodded.
"Be careful!" He opened his mouth, but seemed to think better of it. He nodded and smiled, and he and Toothless took off.
He ducked his head and took his feet out of the stirrups. He laid fully on Toothless' back. Speed was needed, and the dragon took the hint. A few miles from the island, he used the speed to carry them high in the air. A few clouds provided a little cover. Hopefully, the lookouts were checking the horizon, and not looking up. No matter, -they were pretty high up. What he saw didn't look very promising.
The smoke was coming from ships burning in the narrow harbor on the other side of the island. Someone's been busy… He thought. He was hoping for the element of surprise… But maybe… This was on the other side from their approach… He looked out. A few more ships were making their way out, and further out, a very large ship was making it's way out too, and there was smoke rising from it.
He flew a little closer. He heard the thump of what he assumed was… yes! -Cannon fire! But he saw splashes in the water, short of their mark… A little further ahead, he saw five viking ships hidden behind the cliffs, and rocks… Catapults ready… This wasn't going to be pretty… He would like to stay, but he needed to check on the rest of the ships and the island proper.
He flew out a little north and west. There were a cluster of islands, and it appeared, that yes… There were more ships hidden there. But it seemed they were leaving. A few had their sails unfurled. He couldn't discern what direction they were heading. Either to engage the other ships, or turning tail he supposed. They would need to be dealt with, one way or another. He needed to get word to Eugene…
They flew back over the island. There were soldiers, but they were on the other side of the island tending the mess. Some lookouts posted… He did note the lack of dragons… There were none to be seen. -At least for the moment. He suspected a trap, but this was Viggo… Of course it was a trap! He just needed to… But there was no time… They made a turn around the island. There was a large-ish mountain on one end. It looked like there were openings in the sides of it lower down. -And near the top, -wide but narrow openings. -But there wasn't one large enough for dragons to fly in and out of… He needed to get back…
He caught up with the group. He told them of what he saw. Snotlout and Gjaflaug would go after the people on the ground, Elsa and Trófastr would see to the dragons. He would go after Viggo… They dropped down and came in fast. The lookouts scattered as they came. Someone blew a horn off to the side… Snotlout and Gjaflaug went right to work scattering the soldiers, and generally making a mess of things. He and Elsa and Trófastr landed on a small hill on the other side of the island from the mountain.
"Stay here and keep an eye on things! -And get word to Eugene! There are several ships to the north-west! We need to deal with them!" She nodded.
"You be careful!" He nodded.
"-And you! There won't be much of a wedding if you're not there." She smiled and bit her lip. She took his hand in hers and drew him up against her. Their hands to their chests. They shared a look. He drew his hand up and gently caressed her cheek, then ran it through her lovely hair. He looked her deeply in the eye…
"I'll see you after…" She nodded. He stood there for a few more moments, taking her all in… After… After this was over… Things would be better… He just… He had to go, -before he wouldn't be able to. He did not look back as he dropped her hand and walked to Toothless. One quick check, And in the saddle he went. Toothless shot up like a bolt. The flew towards the mountain. They took a turn around. He dropped down, and scratched the dragons' neck.
"Toothless? We need to be careful! You remember how he almost had you?" Toothless growled angrily and huffed. He had been the centerpiece of Viggo's plan back then. To capture Toothless, and draw the dragons to him… To be slaughtered for the gold their skins and scales would bring. He nearly lost his life saving him. If not for Astrid, Heather, and surprisingly, the twins… He may have done just that. He ruined their plan, and his father had banished him from the archipelago…
Now he was back. This plan seemed simple enough… Gather a huge dragon, destroy the competition, and… What? It was too simple. Viggo always seemed to have an end game, -but what? -And how did he manage to gather said huge dragon? He gave Toothless a scratch.
"If we get separated, I want you to go back and look after Elsa!" He crooned in protest.
"I know! But I don't want him getting his hands on you! She'll need the aid of the Alpha, and that's you!" He warbled again, and cocked his head to give him a one-eyed incredulous look.
"We can't be sure she'll show up!" He barked and growled.
"I mean it Toothless! It's all in the Gods hands! I'm pretty sure I can defeat him, but… One of us has to survive this day, -and if not me, then her! Do you understand?" He shook his head and was silent for a moment. Eventually, there was a huff. Fine! She would have a little more help… One less thing to worry about… Or so he wished…
They made a circuit of the mountain. The openings he had seen were ledges. Whether natural, or otherwise, he couldn't say. He thought he caught a glimpse of someone… They flew around to the other side, and landed. He took a quick stock… The ledge they landed on was about twenty feet deep, and seventy feet long. The floor was mostly flat. The actual entrance was definitely made by a dragon. Probably a Whispering Death. There was a four-foot high wall that was put there by humans. After locking Toothless tail-fin, he took his sword off its clip and walked in.
Rough-hewn rock gave way to smoother floors, and then to tiles. They were very odd and uneven in shape. Light seemed to filter in from above from holes in the ceiling. He checked every nook and cranny. He took a few extra moments at an intersection of tunnels, checking carefully around the corners. Toothless was sniffing about, but had raised no alarms just yet.
He continued straight ahead, -and there! In the floor… A tile sticking up more than the others surrounding it! He held up a hand to the dragon. He halted his advance, looking at him curiously. He crouched down to inspect it. He had been expecting something like this… And surprised he hadn't come across something like this sooner. There was an obvious seam. So, the smart thing was to step over it, or to the side… But this was Viggo, it could mean nothing, -or everything!
He checked around. There were no seams… In the walls or the ceiling. Nothing to give away a possible trap… Except for that bloody tile! He stood, and motioned for Toothless to back up into the passageway they had just come through. The dragon gave an annoyed huff, but complied. He made his choice, and with one more look to his best friend, he took a step…
She watched them go, wondering if… Yes, she would… She couldn't allow herself to think otherwise. She needed to focus on the task at hand. She steeled herself, and planted one end of her staff in the ground next to her foot. She called upon her magic once again, and created a pure, clear crystal of ice and attached it to the end. It reflected and refracted the sunlight. She spun it over her head in a few circles. She looked up, and saw she had a cloud of dragons over her head. She placed the end in the ground again. Hulda chirped and squawked. She looked out and saw a large group of men heading towards her. She pointed her staff at them.
Dragons then began dropping out of the cloud. They swooped in, and grasped them in their claws, -some two at a time. They flew them out, and released them into the freezing water. That took care of most of them, but there were still more. Hulda stood and splayed her wings, screeching loudly. When they didn't stop, she released a white-hot blast of fire at them. That did the trick!
A few arrows fell close about. She saw off to her right, a group of ten archers were taking aim. She released a burst of frost at them, freezing their bows and arrows, rendering them useless. Then more dragons swooped in and took care of them as well. Trófastr had engaged a few stragglers until they had been taken care of. He stepped up to her smiling.
"That's quite a handy thing to have!" She smiled a bit.
"Yes, of course! But there is a cost…" A knot formed in her stomach. He smiled a bit grimly.
"It will be alright Elsa! You'll see!" She dearly wished she could believe that. -But how could he know? Just then, another… Thought… Inkling? Something was out there… It was the same feeling… Yes, Jórunna was out there, -but there was also… something else. It was the same kind of feeling… but different. Again she wondered. Was it this Red Death? -Or was it something else?
Just then a rider landed close by. Ranveg, -she was of the younger generations. And she had grown fond of her. She was a regular in the shop, and often would help out. She loved to hear everything about her kingdom in the south, and Elsa had made it a point to put her on the short list of people she wanted to take with her. She gave a curt bow.
"My Lady! They brought out the net throwers, and some bola machines, but we've taken care of them!" She nodded.
"Very good! I need you to fly out, and find Prince Eugenes' ship! Tell him there are ships off to the west of him! We need to go after them! After that, find Thuggory. Tell him to bring the ships closer! We need to make sure nothing can escape!" She nodded and bowed deeply. She jumped on to her dragon. A particularly beautiful purple Nightmare… As she watched her go, she saw it. A cloud in the distance. -But it was moving against the wind… It was strangely shaped… Was it… Was it friends, or…
"Trófastr? What do you make of that?" He spun his head around and looked for a few moments.
"They're too far away…" She couldn't tell…
"Send Gjaflaug to me. Have the others get ready! Tell Snotlout to finish up! We are out of time!" He nodded and jumped on his dragon and was off… The knot in her stomach tightened, -as if it were even possible… And that, -something out there… It was getting closer…
The whole floor had given way. The trigger was a total of seven feet across, and covered the entire width of the floor… There had been no way around it. The grate had come down right behind him, and in front of Toothless. As it was, it hit him in the snout… But it could have been much worse. He sat in the other passageway, a few meters away, separated by heavy metal. He crooned pitifully.
"Toothless? Go, -go help the others! I'll be fine! He crooned and huffed. Then barked twice. He wasn't taking no for an answer. This could make the third time… The third time he almost lost him…
"Toothless! We don't have time for an argument here! I'll call you… I promise!" The look in his eyes, it nearly broke his resolve. But there was no time to look for another route. He needed to take care of this quickly, so he could be out there when the real threat arrived… Toothless crooned and then turned around and padded off.
He made his way a bit more carefully. Looking for any more signs. -And it was taking forever! But it seemed… The passageway opened up a bit. Light was filtering from somewhere ahead. He made his way a little slower, it seemed unnecessary. The light was too strong but… He rounded a corner slowly and the space opened up from there.
It was much the same as the other side. Except the passageway opened onto one end of the ledge. There he saw him. He had his back turned to him. -A mistake for almost any other, -but this was Viggo Grimborn. He should take nothing he gave for granted… It usually came with a heavy price. He stood there looking out. He chanced a glance himself. It was quite a commanding view! He suspected under different circumstances, it would be an awesome place to catch a sunset.
Viggo rolled his shoulders a little, then shrugged. He thought he caught a slight shake of his head. His disdain for his underlings evident, even at this angle. -And he wondered why people would betray him. He had heard the tirades before, always looking down on people, and shaming them. Better to lift them up to your level, he'd found… He wondered at what he should do. Walk up and just clobber him… No, -he would give him a chance to speak. -Or leave, before his sentence was carried out…
He finally turned. He didn't seem a bit surprised to see him. -Of course he wasn't. That chance to talk went both ways he supposed. But to what end? He suspected he would find out shortly. He looked much the same as he remembered. His hair was starting to turn a little, a few more scars than he remembered him having… A smug kind of leer crossed his face just before he spoke.
"Hiccup! How nice to see you again! -You're looking quite well I must say…" Just, -get on with it already!
"Well, Viggo… I wish I could say them same for you… You're looking, -a bit older for your years!" The grin on his face widened.
"Well, it has been a few years. You seem to have done quite well for yourself. Built quite an alliance, -and did I hear correctly? The very beginning of a vast Viking Kingdom about to be born? With you as King? I must say, the rest of the world should be shivering in their palaces!" He wasn't sure if he should be insulted or not… They were wasting time!
"What ever it is you have going on here, -whatever plans you have… End this! Take your ships, and your people, and leave the archipelago! And do not return! I will allow you this one chance! Leave us in peace, and we will give you such!" His face showed little emotion. It was aggravating!
"-And already talking like a King should! I am impressed! -But everything I want is here Hiccup. Why should I leave? The dragons are here, And a whole archipelago of people very knowledgeable with them… And so many profits to be made… No, -I don't think I'll be going anywhere I'm afraid!" It was fine with him, but he'd much rather not have it come to that.
"Then I'm afraid you leave me no choice. Hand over your sword, and come with me. We'll see what your people decide for themselves, but there is only one fate that awaits you…" He chuckled.
"Hiccup, Hiccup! Is that any way to treat an old friend? And here I thought we would have a merry chat, and catch up on things! -Speaking of catching up, I must apologize for what happened back there on Berserk Island, -terrible mess, that! -But, you just can't have a war without some… collateral damage. So tell me, -are the rumors true? Was she with child when we slew her?" -So he was the one! He should have known… But it was usually his way. He wouldn't dare sully his own hands. He nodded. He was almost too angry to speak. But he'd best keep his emotions in check…
"Well! That will make the aftermath here so much cleaner! No need to worry about youngsters mucking about, avenging their parents! -And speaking of old friends, there are a couple of them here, just itching to see you again! Although, I'm afraid… This reunion will prove most fatal to you!" He couldn't imagine…
"The first, you defeated some years ago, when you were just barely a teenager. To be honest, I didn't believe the stories when I first heard them. And after seeing her, well, I still find it hard to believe! An associate of mine found her. Sleeping in a volcano a few years ago. He has quite an effect on her. And I thought… If she can call dragons to her… All I need do is set myself up somewhere, and let her do the work! And I think, -yes! The Barbaric Archipelago will do quite nicely!" He scowled.
"OK! If you think for one moment that any one, for even a moment, can control something like that, you are sorely mistaken! -And this whole idea of control? Complete nonsense! Where do you people even get this idea? You, -It's a bond of trust! If they trust you, they will do what you want, -most of the time… They will follow you, and fight for you… I no more control Toothless than any other!" He frowned. He still, after all this time, -all his intelligence… He still couldn't see that!
"At any rate, the other you should be quite familiar with. That being recent history… He washed up on our shores some time ago. At first, I thought nothing of him. But then he started showing great promise, and I daresay, he has impressed even me! His skills match your own, although his methods are more in-line with my thinking… You two had a falling out, I believe… It had something… Ahh, Yes! He killed your father!" No! It, -it couldn't be…
"Drago…" An evil grin spread across his face again.
"Yes! Drago Bludvist! He nearly defeated you! -Or so I'm told… Tell me, how is it that you came out of that alive?" He still couldn't believe it! How, -how did he survive? They had sent out patrols… Searched the waters around Berk for weeks… Just then, there was a commotion outside. He looked just in time to see a flock of dragons speed past their location. As he craned his neck, he saw a huge hulking figure atop a Snafflefang at the head of this group. There were headed straight towards Elsa!
"I'm afraid he has some rather ghastly plans for your intended… Such a waste! -But I have some one else in mind for King of the Archipelago… ME!" He shook his head.
"Ok… First, -who will support you? If you get rid of the leadership… They still won't follow you! -And second, -how will you maintain control? Nearly every one here knows… And we are Vikings! About the most stubborn, violent people in the world… Good luck maintaining all that…" He shook his head.
"The people are of no consequence! Once the queen has gathered her flock… when she has completed her nest… When we have all the dragons, we will be the only ones that have them! Any one opposing us will have to go… One way or the other…" That evil smile was back on his face. He was in for a disappointment…
"Fear, and coercion will only get you so far… With humans, -or dragons! Surely, I proved that several years ago with Drago. -And eventually, they both will rise up against you!" He laughed.
"Oh Hiccup! I do not plan to be idle! I have quite the idea! I'll grow the flock! -Yes! Berk will make quite the breeding station for them! I plan to raise an extremely large flock! And sell them as before… One piece at a time. And when I have enough gold, I'll build a large fleet of ships, and take them to all corners of the world! No army or navy could stand against us!" He had heard enough! He needed to end this! He needed to be at Elsas' side… Viggo started bending and stretching. Tucking in an errant strap here and there, matter-of-factly. He looked at him with a cold light in his eyes. He heard a familiar, distant screeching roar…
"And now I'm afraid, it's time for me to end you! Such a pity! I must admit, I admire your talent with the dragons. And your leadership skills would prove vastly useful. Are you, -quite sure you won't join me? I would gladly give you a place at my table. You could become very wealthy. You would be respected and feared. And I daresay the woman, -should she survive, would have a place by your side. What say you?" Sure, he would have a place, but for how long? -But that wasn't it…
"That would be a tempting offer, if I felt so important about myself but… It was never about me, since the beginning. It was always about them. Dragons are amazing creatures. We humans, we are meant to be their caretakers. Not their jailers. We are meant to learn from them, -not profit from them. There is no controlling them, I'm afraid. You can no more control them as you can control nature." He huffed.
"Well, your friend seems to have a bit of say in what she does…" Maybe he needed it explained…
"You're wrong! Yes, he may do that for a little while. Her thoughts, his thoughts, they are in line with one another. That is the only reason she does that. When she has established her nest… When she has the dragons under her control… That is when she becomes more dangerous than you can imagine. She will not allow herself to be led, or coerced. She's a lot like you two. -She doesn't care for the dragons in her nest, she would just as soon eat one of them, as long as she gets what she wants. She is as wild as nature itself, she will not, and cannot be controlled!" His gaze hardened. He reached back and drew the sword that was attached there…
It was a heavy blade, and a bit curiously forged! It seemed to have a groove in the middle on either side. -And something else… A smaller, much narrower groove in the middle of that. It almost looked like a seam of some sort… He pushed the button on his own sword. The blade extended. This was slightly heavier than the one he usually carried. It was an experiment… But he was sure it would hold up. If not, he had a backup, -and a plan. He calmed himself. He knew what he had to do. He sent a silent prayer… Not for himself, but for Elsa. That she would hold up until he finished this… Viggo lolled his head, stretching the neck muscles. He gave his sword a few test swings…
"I really must apologize! It was never my intent to kill you… But I'm afraid you leave me no choice!" He allowed himself a smirk.
"Funny… I was going to say the same for you, -only… without the apology!" Viggo was on him in a flash…
She watched the flock move in. There was only one rider… He looked huge! Even at a distance! She steeled herself. And watched intently. The dragons swooped in and it was a tangle of leathery wings and sharp claws. Hulda stood and squawked loudly, splaying her wings. Her tail curled over her head, spines at the ready.
The rider landed heavily and slid out of the saddle. He reached over and took out a long pike. There was a sharp point, and a hook on the end. It was almost twice as long as hers. She took a deep calming breath. His eyes finally landed on her. A smile slowly spread across his face. It was deeply scarred, and it seemed… One whole side of his face… it never moved! He was almost twice a tall as she, and nearly as wide as she was tall. He wore a cloak that had to be dragon skin. He held the weapon in his right hand… The arm was seemingly lightly armored. His left was heavily armored, and ended with a vicious claw. She wasn't sure… but it seemed to just… hang there…
He looked her up and down. A cold dread swept over her… It wasn't her magic… It was his eyes. There was absolutely no light in them whatsoever. He looked to one side, then the other. His eyes settled on her again. He started laughing. Not a merry sort of laugh in any definition… It sent another cold chill down her spine…
"OH! HoHOHO! THIS? This is what they sent after ME? -A WOMAN?" He continued to laugh. She was not amused.
"Who are you? -And why have you come?" He stopped after a moment.
"Forgive me! I am Drago! Drago Bludvist! And I am the Dragon Master!" He doubted he could hold a candle… She huffed…
"And I am Elsa Ellesmyre, Queen of Arendelle! And on behalf of Chief Haddock, and all the Allied Chiefs of the archipelago, I command you to leave! We will allow you one dragon, and such supplies you need to survive… Leave the Islands! And do not return!" He started laughing again, but dipped his head. She wasn't sure if he was mocking her… He spoke again, trying to reign in his outburst.
"Forgive me, your Highness! Where is the Haddock? We must talk… There is, -unfinished business between us!" She scowled at him.
"He is not here! He is talking with your leader! -The one who holds your chain?" He scoffed.
"Holds my… NO ONE Commands me! Not I! I control the dragons! It is I who gives the orders!" He thumped his chest. Men! Tweak their ego a little…
"Hiccup told me about you! You are no Dragon Master! You, -who tortures them, treats them cruelly… There is no mastery in being a bully! -And they all meet their demise… One way or the other…" He huffed.
"Silence! Now, be a good little wench, and go fetch him to me! I might let you live to see the end of this day…" She shook her head.
"I'm sorry, -but I am a Queen! I will only allow one man to order me about, -and he is not here! -So do your own fetching… DOG!" His eyes immediately snapped to hers. There was light in them now, but it was hatred, and malice… She knew right then and there what she must do. He took slow, heavy, purposeful steps toward her. She dared not back down. She did plant her right foot a little behind her left, setting herself… He leered at her.
"Any last words?"
"Only these… Leave now! -And do not return! Hiccup will show you mercy!" He laughed cruelly
"Ah yes! The great Dragon Master! So he has a woman to fight his battles for him now? I wish he could be here… I want to show him what a true Dragon Master can do!" She huffed.
"Again… He is elsewhere, dealing with your leader… So tell me, -do you really expect this Viggo Grimborn to allow you to be at his side? To rule the archipelago with him? -Or are you just his puppet?" His head whipped around, he fixed her with a murderous glare.
No one controls me! Whoever has the dragons, holds the power! After I finish you, and that, -pretender! -I will finish him as well! Hmmm, interesting… Maybe…
"Well, that's the thing isn't it? You don't HAVE the dragons, and neither does Hiccup! -Not even I! You don't control them! -No more than you control the wind, or the rain! -You take them, and twist them into something they're not. -And once they realize that, they will turn on you!" He scoffed again, and took a few steps back.
"You do not realize… You must find the one that controls them, and gain power over that one. After that, it is only a matter of, -finding the right motivation for them." He grinned evilly. What, -how… How could he possibly… Maybe he could understand them as she… but no, that didn't seem right…
"So where is this dragon? I had heard stories, but I want to see for myself!" She was goading him, but she shouldn't… She needed to focus. She wasn't sure… If he landed a blow… He smiled.
"She will be along soon. But look quickly! It will be your last!" He stood at his full height, and spun his pike over his head. He then started yelling at the top of his lungs. The pike made a strange humming noise as it traveled through the air. The dragons above them started to disperse. She noticed the bodies… Several dragons laid all about the hill around them. She couldn't tell whose was whose, but it didn't matter to her… Her heart clenched. She wanted to rush to them, to try and save them. But the man in front of her couldn't be ignored.
She felt a darkness creep upon her, such as she had never felt before… She was angry! All those dragons… Hurt or dying… And HE was the cause of it all! And it seemed, he didn't care a whit! He looked around for a moment before turning his gaze back to her. That, cold, cruel look… He smiled.
"I'll have you know… Once I kill you, I will bring your body to the Haddock! So he can watch as I have it torn to pieces by the dragons he loves so much!" If he was trying to frighten her… He was failing. It only served to steel her resolve… This man could not be allowed to live. To torture and enslave people -and dragons alike! She must do this for them, and all the generations after! He rolled his head, cracking his neck. He spun the pike quickly, -she was ready…
They had been at it for more than a few minutes. He struck again, and again. He was powerful! And the blade… It must be made of… If it was made of anything else, he should be tiring. His own blade was holding up well. But this was taking a lot longer than he wanted to already. -And Viggo was a powerful, muscular man. -But he knew that…
He wanted to try and tire him out at first. But when it became apparent it wouldn't happen soon, he changed tactics. Tried to look for any openings… Between the thrusts, and uppercuts… They had locked blades more than once, only to have Viggo throw him off with little effort. He had almost been cut in two as he attacked while he recovered from one such encounter. He thought he saw an opening, but didn't exploit it right away… Then another… A small moment with his side unguarded… It would be enough…
Just then there was a great screeching roar. It shook the very rock they stood on. It was horribly familiar, -even after all these years. He still had the occasional nightmare… Viggo took a couple of steps back, disengaging. He blinked, as that grin spread across his face.
"AH! That sounds like the guest of honor now!" He slowly lowered his blade slightly. Then he glanced quickly to his left. He looked back at him and gestured slightly with his head. He wasn't sure if he should rush in and, just bash him… But no, he could use a slight rest, and this could be an opportunity… Viggo took a few tentative steps sideways towards the ledge. He matched him, never taking his eyes off him, until he completely lowered the tip of his sword and planted it on the ground. Only then did he relax a little…
They walked up to the wall, and looked out just as the Red Death came by. A great gust of wind… He thought he saw… Nadder spines stuck in her hide… There was a blast of plasma from somewhere above them. Toothless! He must have gone up there to direct the others… Now he blasted her again as she flew by. She roared her disapproval as it hit her in the back, just behind the wing joints. There were a couple more, then he saw Bertha and Cami in pursuit. Along with his mother and two other riders.
Cloudjumper released a blast as did the Nightmare with her. The dragon then turned, making for the other side of the island, out of their sight. He thought he heard Toothless release another blast. Viggo looked his way.
"I must say Hiccup, -I'm impressed! You fight so much better than last time!" He refused to take the compliment… It always came with a price…
"I'll give you one last chance Viggo! End this! Now! -And no more will have to die!" He smirked a little smugly. He realized this wasn't going to end well for either of them.
"Hiccup? I don't see where you are in any position to hand out mercy. Ahhh, so sad… It seems we will always be at odds. -But only for a little while longer…" His expression changed. He looked over as the Red Death came back into view. Still being pursued by the others. Another blast from Toothless… The he saw her rear her head… He knew what came next…
She released a huge river of fire into the water… Into the harbor, -where a group of Viggos' ships were at anchor… A cold bolt shot up his spine… All those men… All that waste! Viggos' eyes went wide, his mouth dropped open. It was a few more moments before any sound came out. He spluttered.
"WHAT! Why? -Why would he do that?" It was his turn to smirk.
"It's like I told you! No one controls her, not completely! She has no love for the dragons in her nest… And she hates humans even more! THAT, -is a bad dragon! -And you, and Drago are bad people! -Bad things are bound to happen! Can't you feel it? The hate… The bad feelings coming off her?" Maybe he couldn't… He never saw them as he did…
The dragon then spun around. Valka and the other rider released another blast. The Red Death took off after them, out of their sight. He thought he could hear Toothless' roar from above. A few moments later, he could feel a hot blast of air coming through the tunnel he came through earlier. Viggo was frowning, -apparently deep in thought. He looked at him again. His expression changed once more.
"Well, this certainly changes my plans… But not with you! Are you sure you do not want to join me? A place will open for you… very soon!" Viggo looked at him almost pleadingly. But he shook his head.
"I'm afraid not! It's like you said, you will never see the dragons as I do. So I must respectfully decline." He almost looked crestfallen… He wasn't fooled… The Red Death came into view again. She turned toward them, then back to the harbor. She made a circle, releasing another river of fire. Burning more boats, and the docks they were tied to. She turned back towards them, then stopped. She tilted her head slightly, and swung towards the end of the island.
He looked down. He could see… Yes! Elsa was there! She was still alive! Still battling with, -there was no mistaking… Drago! He caught the occasional glint of light, a flash of pale blue… He couldn't tell exactly what was going on. But he could see… He then noticed her… The Red Death, it had reared her head… He knew… He prayed she was paying attention… Then it happened… A great blast, lasting a whole five seconds. He wanted to look away, afraid of what he might see after… But he couldn't. He felt more than saw Viggo turn his gaze to him.
"I really hope you two said goodbye…" The bottom of his stomach dropped out. But somehow… He watched the flames… There was so much… But he thought… The flames were flowing around something on the ground! They burned for a few more moments. As they died down, he thought he saw… They had, -disappeared! He couldn't see either of them! But then, -yes! She had been paying attention! Something, -something happened. And he could see them again! Viggo turned to him, his eyes wide.
"Impressive! I didn't really see that! But, she can't hold it up forever, -can she?" He smiled a bit.
"She does have a few tricks up her sleeve! -Look again!" Viggo spun his head, just as Jórunna breached about a half-mile offshore. She stood partly on her hind legs, then crashed down. Splashing her tusks in the water. It was an aggressive display. The Red Death skittered back a little, making a sound he never thought he would hear from such a large dragon. It almost mirrored the look Viggo gave him after slowly turning his head his way. He allowed himself another smile…
"I'm guessing, -you didn't see that either?"
They fought… For several minutes. He was incredibly strong, and quick for his size. She had managed to land a few blows. She dented his armor in a few places, especially on his left arm, -which he still wasn't using! It was curious to say the least. Every spin, every thrust… all with his right hand and arm, but not the left…
She blocked another blow. Her staff rang in her hands from the force of it. He then twisted his pike, and pulled. She was instantly off balance, and stumbled towards him. She barely avoided a thrust to her head that would surely have knocked her out. But inside the arc of his swings as she was, she managed to land a blow to his right forearm, denting the guard he wore. She also was able to offer a vicious thrust to his face which he barely avoided. She used his obvious surprise to leap backwards out of the arc of his arms.
It was curious… he still hadn't used his left arm! If it had been her, she would've grabbed him, -or at least punched, or made a grab for his weapon, -or… something! Again, -heavily armored, and ending with a giant, deadly looking claw… And useless? She then remembered… Hiccup had told her once he had lost an arm. He assumed to a dragon, hence his hatred, and his wish to control them. But how… How could such a person… No one knew! He wore it so no one would think… A one-armed man would be seen as weak… She began to understand a little more.
She changed her tactics. She had been mostly defensive until now. Something deep inside… She did not wish to take a life. -Even his! Even though she knew, -he would not show her the same platitude… She stayed then a bit off to his left, she thrust to his ribs, then his gut, he was able to block the first, but not the second. She leaped into the air and spun, bringing her staff down. She landed a heavy blow to the side of his skull. Her staff rang in her hands from the impact. She spun it in her hands and thrust again at his ribs. He was off-balance a bit. She spun it again and aimed for the shoulder from underneath.
The blow jarred his arm. His face hardened as he brought his weapon down and swept it in front of him. The hook managed to grab her staff, and he pulled. But instead of resisting it, she allowed him to pull her. She held on tightly and jumped. He threw her several feet away. She tucked and rolled, coming back on her feet in a defensive stance. She spun around to face him. She couldn't tell if it was a smile, or a leer. From his face, they both looked the same…
"Very impressive! You fight very well for a southern girl!" She was in equal amounts proud and insulted…
"Yes, there is a bit more to me than it would seem! And I fear you will find out the hard way!" He scoffed. Then she heard it, -a great thunderous roar. She looked, as did he. What she saw looked like another oddly-shaped cloud, until she realized… It was one dragon! Several smaller shapes flitted around her, blasting it with their fire. It seemed to have little effect. And from the top of the mountain yonder came a flash of bright bluish-purple. Toothless! She had been on the receiving end of one of those once! The great dragon shuddered, and shrieked. Her roar was loud at a distance, and louder still up close. It nearly split her ears!
It flew toward them. A cold dread swept through her. She could feel her! And it was something completely different! She reeked of malice, hate, and ill-intent! She almost blanched from it. She came to the decision Hiccup had in that moment… This one could not be allowed to escape! She watched as it turned away from them and made a circle around the harbor. Still pursued, and from the top of the mountain again, Toothless released another blast. She shuddered again and reared her head. She felt and heard the intake of air…
She then released it, an incredible burst of flame! It engulfed everything! Including their own ships at anchor in the harbor. She heard a gasp. She looked and Drago was agape. His arms hung loosely. He then scowled and started shouting.
"What? What's the matter with you? Those… Those are… Why?" She allowed herself a bit of smugness. Surely this was proof enough…
"Do you still believe you can control her? If so, that was quite the masterful move! It should send a proper message to Viggo!" He rounded on her, and lashed out. Blow after blow… She had been ready. The last few were a bit difficult, but she was able to block. The Red Death was a terrible distraction to her. There was something else… Not the large dragon in front of her, and not Jórunna, -who was very close… But, something else… He spluttered, breathing a bit heavily.
"That, that was… She came! I summoned her, and she came!"
"Yes, she did. She came of her own volition! And that…" S he gestured out across the water. "That too, was on her own as well! End this! -NOW! Allow me to take her on! She is a threat! -To dragons and humans alike!" His face hardened. She knew the answer before he… He lashed out again. She managed to land a few more blows. One on top of his left shoulder. She though she could feel something give a little, but she was too busy focusing on his relentless attacks. She felt it, and heard it as well… The sharp intake of air… Drawing the air into her… She looked just as the Red Death released her flame…
Instinct took over. Her arm shot out and formed an arc over her head. She crouched down. She could feel the intense heat, even through the ice. She had a presence of mind to keep the frost flowing out of her. Hardening the dome, making it as solid as she could. It glowed an eerie sort of violet. She chanced a glance over. Drago had drawn his cloak over him. She doubted it would have been enough to save him… She waited until the ice regained its natural color. She stood slowly, and willed the ice away. The Red Death circled around and landed some distance away… She glanced at him again. Slowly, he withdrew the cloak, and looked about. He seemed to be bewildered a bit as to how he survived. His incredulous gaze finally landed on her.
"You see?" She said. "I am no ordinary woman! I am the Snow Queen! End this! Drop your weapon, and I will show mercy!" Whether it be from pride, or… It didn't matter to her the reasons, only the outcome of the choice… His face twisted into a wicked snarl.
"NEVER!" He lashed out again, this time, the point of his pike managed to slip past. She felt it graze her. It burned, and before long, she could feel a slight trickling of something warm down her neck. Her anger was raised. She had had quite enough of this! It was clear he wanted nothing but to kill her. She willed her magic again. She formed long, sharp points on either end of her staff. She instantly went on the offensive. She surprised herself at the speed of her attacks. Clubbing him, striking with everything she had. He was knocked back a few times, The left arm came loose, and fell to the ground.
She leaped into the air again, spinning her staff. She brought it down hard in the top of his skull as she came down, she noticed blood had matted his hair from her earlier attacks. She landed and spun around instantly. She willed a small pillar of ice in front of him, about two feet high. She leaped, placing her left foot on top of the pillar, she sprung herself higher into the air. She flipped, and she saw her target. Where his armor ended, where his neck met his shoulder. She thrust harder than she ever had, and let go of her staff. She landed on her feet behind him.
She spun around, he was just standing there. She couldn't see his face. Her staff was buried about two feet into him, -and the angle… She had missed his heart. -So she hadn't killed him… yet. His pike dropped from his hand. He swayed a little. She walked around him, giving a wide berth. He was looking out over the water… Jórunna had arrived!
She stood on her hind legs a bit, then came crashing down. Her tusks slashing the water. The Red Death… Yelped? In surprise, then roared loudly. It was answered by Jórunna. They continued like this for a few moments. The the other dragon reared up, and took a deep breath. She released her flame as she came down. Jórunna tucked her head and took it. It lasted a whole ten seconds! When it finished, she uncoiled, and spat her ice.
The Red Death screeched, and skittered backwards and to the right. The ice just missed her. She roared indignantly, and released another bout of flame. Jórunna took this as well. It didn't seem to have an effect on her, but she couldn't be sure… Again she spat her ice. The Red Death skittered again, knocking over a sea stack, then collided with a cliff. She was trapped… She heard a few shuffling footfalls behind her…
She spun around. He had merely shifted his weight. She willed her magic. She drew out her staff, doing away with the sharp points as it came to her. She considered Drago… As long as he was still standing… She willed her magic again. Ice slowly crept out of the ground around his legs. Freezing him in place. She stopped it just short of his shoulders. He wasn't going anywhere, and he wouldn't be a threat… She could now focus on the battle in front of her.
Another spat of roaring ensued. Jórunna took a few steps to the side and released her ice. The Red Death jumped to the side. She took her staff, and willed it in her direction. She screeched, and leaped into the air. Her wings came down. And she flew in a small circle, coming around. She blasted Jórunna again, and again she ducked. Some of the spines on her back… They started to smolder a bit. Jórunna spat again. She took hold with her magic, but it wasn't enough… She knew what she had to do, but she… Couldn't… Not just yet!
She landed next to Jórunna. She swung her head popping her jaws. Jórunna then raised up on her hind legs, and angling her head a little, brought her tusks down into the Red Deaths' side. She screeched horribly. She almost felt sorry for her. Two huge gashes were opened. One in its' ribcage, the other in its' neck. The Red Death swung its head again, snapping her jaws, but her teeth found nothing. She then turned her head. She herself came under its evil glare. The Red Death released a small burst of flame at her, she just caught Jórunna raising up on her back legs as the ice covered her.
There was a muffled, crunching thud. The Red Death screamed. The flames dissipated quickly, and she dropped the ice dome to reveal Jórunnas forehead buried into the Red Deaths side. It stumbled and roared. Jórunna backed off a little. The other stood and bounded shakily away roaring. the Red Death then leaped into the sky, and swooped down. She made a small circle then flew towards the mountain. Toothless let go another blast. She yelped, then released a huge flaming blast at the side and top of the mountain. There was a muffled, faint roar…
Hulda screeched loudly and took off in the direction of the mountain. She only now just realized… Toothless was up there… where was Hiccup? Her stomach dropped out of her. She hoped against hope that at least this time, they were not together. The Red Death circled the mountain, then disappeared into the clouds. She looked, a shadow there… a change in lighting… This thing was smart she realized. But wasn't it so with all dragons? She looked upon Jórunna. She looked a little worn, but seemed otherwise ok… They shared a look, then turned their eyes skyward.
There was no sign until… There! No, there! No… Just a change in light. She looked around, then up. She thought… It happened almost in the blink of an eye. A dark cloud suddenly grew darker, right over their heads. The shadow suddenly took on the shape of a great dragon before she dropped out of the clouds, right on top of Jórunna! There was no time to react! The Red Deaths' club-like tail swung down as she landed. There was a sickening crunch, as tree trunks snapping in a storm. Jórunna wailed, and fell on her side. She spun around, her tail whipping around. She spun again. Jórunna tried to get up, but flinched badly. The other spun around the other way. Her tail swinging. The ball of what had to be solid bone connected with Jórunnas' head. She saw her eyes roll, and she fell, limp into the water…
They had stayed their fight again, for only a moment to watch the battle. As Jórunna fell, so did his stomach. It was just like before… Only, -she was just knocked out… Right? Viggo turned to him, that smug smile on his face…
"Well Hiccup! I really must be getting along! And please, -it's nothing personal… Really!" He sent a prayer for strength, if only enough to wipe that smile off… He had a cut on his neck, and his jaw was sore. -And he was tired… He had managed to get a few blows in himself… They faced each other… One more time…
Viggos' blade came up in a flash… He parried it easily. It came up again, and then one more time. Viggo spun around, bringing his blade up. He again easily blocked it… What was going on here? The corner of his mouth curled slightly. He caught a small movement of his hand… Suddenly, Viggos' blade opened like a pincher! He took a step thrusting the blade at him. There was nothing to do except try to block… his blade fell into the now-empty space. He barely caught another hand movement, and the jaws snapped shut… Snapping his own blade clean off!
He drew it back, as the other half clattered to the ground. He blinked incredulously at the remains of his blade. There was only about eight inches of it left, and square at the end. No good for stabbing, and he just lost what reach he did have. Viggo smiled again.
"Do you like it? It's a special blend and temper of Gronkle Iron! I developed it myself! Blades made with this will cut through anything! I plan to make it standard issue in the army I'll raise…" Hmmm… Maybe… Viggos' gaze hardened.
"Please understand… It's just business, -and time is wasting…" He made a thrust at him. With the shorter blade, -it was troublesome. He was using his advantage. Standing at a distance while he attacked… Time for something crazy… He parried another thrust, and stepped into him. They locked blades, only with his being shorter… Viggo bore down, -his blade came in contact with his shoulder. Were it not for Elsas' armor… He pushed back then had another idea.
He shoved with all his might, when Viggo countered, he went limp, for just a split-second, Then shoved again. He threw the blade off, and managed to bring his elbow up and smash it into his jaw. He shoved again. This time gaining even more separation. He spun on his right foot, and kicked back with his left. Through the cup he felt the contact. Heard the dull clank and crunch. Viggo stumbled backwards until his back met the wall. His eyes were wide as they made contact with each others'.
He considered what was left of the blade in his hands. All that work… He tossed it aside, and reached behind him. He drew out the other sword. He was going to name it Fury, but that sounded a little dumb. -Although it was a Night Furys' flame that helped forge it. -Was it as good as Viggos? He couldn't know. Maybe they were the same… All he knew… He chopped and hacked two anvils to pieces testing it. Gobber didn't let him hear the end of that… For nearly a month!He considered Viggo once more. His eyes were wide, and focused on the blade in his hand. He opened his mouth, but the words didn't come right away…
"That! -That is exquisite! Absolutely marvelous!" He allowed himself a small smirk of pride. Viggos face twisted.
"It will be such a shame to ruin a blade such as that! But, as I've said… You can't fight a war without a little collateral damage!" He smirked, and pushed himself off the wall. -A little gingerly. He imagined that had hurt. He wasn't too concerned… He sent a silent prayer, -to his father, to Astrid, and Thor. He needed to end this! That Red Death was still out there, and so was Elsa! Possibly fighting for her life!
Viggo brought his blade up, he parried. And again… Then again… They were wasting time! He went on the offensive, but he kept giving him the flat of the blade. He wasn't sure… Would it shatter when it came in contact with this other metal? He couldn't know. Viggo seemed to pick up on this, and renewed his attacks. Hitting harder and harder. His other hand came up on the handle of his sword, now came the true test! They separated, for only a moment. Viggo tested him again, then again… He caught the movement… Only this time, he stood his ground. The jaws clamped shut and…
Nothing! Viggo shoved, -and nothing… Only the sickening grinding… Wait! That meant… He pulled, Viggo seemed just as surprised… He pulled harder, then shoved. Viggo was completely off balance. He skittered and skipped until his back met the wall again. Hiccup tightened his grip, and used the momentum and shoved again as soon as they met the wall. There was a slight grinding noise, followed by a screeching sound. The hilt of his sword contacted Viggos' chest. The blade made slight contact with his face, but it was enough to open the skin wherever it touched. Blood began seeping out.
He chanced a quick look down. His blade held, but Viggos' was split all the way to the handle. Their eyes met in that close proximity. He eyes reflected disbelief. He looked down again. Blood began dripping onto his hands, and the base of the now-ruined sword. He took a step back and set his weight. He pulled. The grinding noise… And his blade was free. Viggo looked down, then back at him.
"How?" Was all he said. It was quite simple.
"I guess, in this instance… We were thinking the same, -only… Toothless helped me because he wanted to, -not because he was forced!" Was it as simple as that? He'd like to think so. One more piece of business…
"Viggo Grimborn! You were banished from the archipelago by my father! -And you have returned! The penalty is death! Any last words?" Viggo looked down again, then back up. His face screwed up into a look of pure malice. With a flick of his forearms, he tossed his blade in the air. It came apart, threatening to pelt him with the failing pieces. He wasn't fooled by the distraction. Viggo reached behind him, and drew out a dagger. He brought it up and took a step forward. He took a step as well, and plunged his sword into his chest. -There was no resistance… Not through the armor, nor the mail underneath… Straight through to the very rock wall behind him.
He froze, and looked down. The dagger fell from his grip. He took a step back and yanked the sword out. He stood there. He brought his hands up to his chest. Blood was leaking out in earnest. He looked down at them, then to him. He then collapsed in a heap on the floor. He looked upon him for a few moments… He hated it! He didn't want… But it wasn't his fault. It was Viggos' own actions that led to this. He had no choice… And he certainly couldn't let him go free…
He wiped his blade and sheathed it. He ran to the wall and looked out. Elsa was still alive! Blasting the Red Death… But where was Jórunna? He couldn't see her anywhere! Her ice was still all around… Elsa was fighting the dragon still but… He needed to get down there! He whistled. Nothing! He called… No answer. Where was he? He whistled again. After a few moments, he heard a familiar chirp and squawk. Hulda landed gently on the wall next to him.
"Hulda? Where, -where is Toothless?" She only chirped. She turned on the wall and looked back at him. He knew that look…
Let's go already!
She tried not to despair. She could still feel her… She was still alive… But for how long? She needed to distract the other. The persistent niggling in the back of her mind intensified. She opened the door further on her magic. She released a blast at the Red Death. It served its function, but now what? It screeched and roared, then started to advance on her… Then it stopped!
It looked out into the open ocean. One way, then the other. It gave what seemed like a questioning grunt. It then turned to her and took another step, then stopped again. She raised her head. She then heard it, or felt it… She still couldn't really say… Questioning… Hurt… Comfort… Home… Nes t… Protect ! Fight! Fight fire monster! There was a disturbance in the water some distance away… Then it breached!
It was another! Another Bewilderbeast! But, this one was different. It was missing a tusk… And on the other, a huge metal band… It was very curious! And instead of white, well this one… wasn't quite as light as Jórunna. Drago laughed from behind her…
"Ho ho ho ho! Now we will see! Now you will know, -who the real Dragon Master is!" He started yelling at the top of his voice. She looked out. The Bewilderbeast ducked his head, and seemed to shy away… She turned to Drago, arm outstretched, palm up. She closed her hand. She heard the crinkling and cracking as the ice compressed. His screams died in his throat.
"SILENCE! DOG!" She looked back out, and made a gesture.
"Hitta! Hitta hjálpa! -líka!" He seemed hesitant. Yes it seemed it was a he… He moved a little. She repeated her request. He wound up right near the shore towering over her. Strangely, -she was not afraid… She thought she might be, -but… He looked at her, the same piercing gaze. Then hesitantly behind her, then back.
" Master? "
"No! He would enslave you… and your dragons! Do you truly wish to be bound to this human? I am forn lyðr, forn drottnig! Minn nafn Elsa. I am snjár drottnig!" She called on her magic and walked closer. She then froze the cuff on his remaining tusk.
"I will not! I swore to her I would protect them! I swear to you now, I will protect you! I will protect you all!" She reached up and tapped the cuff with her staff, it shattered into several pieces. He started a little, looking this way and that, his eyes then rested again on her again.
"I give you a name, -Fjǫlmundr! Now, -take her! Take her away from here! -And the dragons! I will protect you! The nest is not far off…" He looked at her, then back at Drago, then back at her, -He grunted, then turned his attention to the Red Death. He roared loudly, and spat ice at her. She screamed and took off. She took her staff, and holding it to her side, blasted the Red Death, and then again. She opened the door on her magic a little wider. -And tried again…
The Red Death circled around. She threw a few more bolts her way. But they didn't seem to affect her… She began to realize… First, she was weakening. All this use of her powers, -the small amount of sleep she got the night before… It was taking its' toll. Not to mention the physical fight she just had…
Second… There may be only one way… One way to bring this to an end… But at what cost? To have that power, -only to never see her sister, or Hiccup, nor the dragons ever again? -And her friends too? And what? What would she become? Would she possibly turn evil with all that power? Just like in the tales? She huffed, this was no fairy tale, but yet… Some of them held at least a little bit of truth…
The Red Death landed in front of her heavily. It lowered its head and roared. She gathered her powers and struck her again, and again. She only flinched. More was required… But how? She knew how… Only, -only… The dragon reared on her hind legs, drawing in a huge breath. She spied the cloud of gas in the back of her throat… What did Hiccup say? -Burned her from the inside? She thought about it. -What exactly did that mean? She threw a large bolt of ice at her, -right into her mouth. It seemed to do the trick. She came crashing down on her forelegs. Working her jaw and swinging her head side to side.
She quickly looked back to Drago. He was still encased in ice. His head was lolled over on his shoulder, hanging loosely… She had a thought just then. It was crazy! -She might not even survive… Then it came like a bolt of lighting! It was a choice! And it was the right one! If she did not defeat this dragon here, and now. The gods only know where it could show up next! Perhaps Arendelle? -Or maybe Corona? She shivered at the thought. -All those innocent people, and the children! Her sister, and her family! NO! She couldn't! -She wouldn't allow it!
The dragon roared and started towards her. She heard a familiar squawk from above. It was Hulda! -But who was riding her? She strained her eyes… It was Hiccup! He had survived! Her heart leapt! She wanted to go to him… Now! But… She, she had to do this. Her heart clenched. Would he know? Would he understand? Yes! Eventually… He would. Just like his responsibilities as Chief, so were hers as the Snow Queen… She was the only one who could defeat her… She looked up. He was struggling. Trying to get Hulda to come down. Perhaps she knew… She knew what was about to happen, and was protecting him. It was a small comfort…
She said goodbye and faced the dragon who was plodding purposefully at her. Just to make sure, she blasted her a few more times, to keep her focus. The dragon reached her, and stood on her hind legs and roared loudly, just as she crashed to the ground around her… She jumped, and was given to blackness…
She was jostled and tossed. In total darkness. The dragon roared. The sound permeated her body, her entire being. She was sticky, and slimy… and she couldn't breathe! She felt her self being pushed. Pushed down its gullet and into Gods knew what… She started to panic, but then a strange calm flowed over her. She knew this was the right thing… It was her choice. For her family, for Hiccup, and the dragons, and all the generations to come… Yes! It was the only way… She flung the door open. Her powers surged through her. She felt new energy, and life flooding through her… Before she took that final step… Over that threshold… With no return… She said a silent goodbye to Hiccup. Her heart clenched. Her last thought was a prayer… That at least, she would be able to see him, -and recognize him… Then maybe…
She thought back to that fateful day at her ice palace, when she had unwittingly struck her sister. Her fear, her anguish… they all seemed like a ball sitting within her chest. She released them in a burst of energy. Yes, that might do the trick! She concentrated, felt the dragons legs, its body… And started to freeze them slowly. She felt her shudder. Ahhh! But it was too late now! She could feel the ice slowly creep up, but instead of encasing her in ice, she froze her solid on the spot. She shuddered again, and stopped moving entirely.
She curled herself into a ball, and gathered all the bad emotions. Hate, fear, anger, self-loathing… All of them! Compressed them into a tiny ball inside her chest. She needed to work quickly! She felt herself slipping… slipping into darkness… Into unconsciousness… FOCUS! CONCENTRATE! She willed herself to hold on until the last possible… Yes! It was time! She flung out her arms and legs. Straightened her whole body and flung the energy out from her. She heard the crinkling, -the cracking… She was slipping, -slipping away… She heard the noise of shattering glass, but it was faint… distant… She saw a bright, white light. It filled her… right before she slipped again into complete darkness again… She whispered a name…
" Hiccup…."
He tried… Tried with everything in him, -but she wouldn't budge! He tried pushing, nudging, -even an extra basket of fish… Sure it was probably dangerous! He didn't care! He needed to be at her side! He knew where and when to hit her, to cause the most damage… But Hulda wouldn't drop down! He could only watch, as Elsa struck her again, and again.
The dragon reared and drew in a breath. He feared what was coming, but she had survived an attack before… Just as the Red Death was about to release her fire. Elsa sent a bolt at her. The dragon choked! The bolt apparently went straight into her throat! He cheered! That was his girl! He thought. She seemed to stop and look back. She then looked up at him… He could barely tell… She looked… Sad! He remembered his vision, that day… A cold dread swept over him. Something was about to happen… Something he wouldn't like! The ice… the fire! NO!
The Red Death charged. She threw a few bolts of ice. It reached her, then reared… Then came crashing down on top of her. His stomach dropped out… His world shattered. NO! This couldn't be happening! Not again! She urged Hulda, -pleaded… She only turned and flew a bit further away. They needed to attack! They needed to try to save her! While there was still a chance!
They had gotten about a half-mile away when Hulda finally stopped. She turned, He tried urging her again, -get her to move closer… There still was time! Hulda chirped and he looked out. He didn't notice right away, but… The skin, it was changing colors! He then realized… It was being frozen solid! It slowly crept up the legs, across the abdomen… Soon, the massive dragon was a massive, -solid block of ice! He watched in wonder, and amazement for a few moments, stunned at the sight.
Then there was a flash. A burst of energy… Like a bolt of lightening! But it was flat, and round, and spread out in all directions from her middle. The skin seemed to frost over. Then the dragon started crumbling into a pile of ice blocks. It was then that Hulda started back, going as fast as her wings could carry them.
She set down next to the pile. He scrambled to the top, and started moving the blocks and chunks of ice. Hulda hovered nearby and joined in. He found her under two large pieces. She looked like she was merely sleeping… He climbed down and picked her up, cradling her. She was as cold as the ice that surrounded them! And she was pale, -even paler than usual! He could detect no signs… It didn't matter! He had her, and they needed to get her out of here… Now! He climbed down. Hulda was waiting for him. He climbed on to her back and they were off. He held her close to his chest, -his tears streamed down his face. He spoke to her, -somehow he just knew…
"Elsa? I've got you! Stay with me, PLEASE! I, -I love you!" Hulda could not fly fast enough…