HICCUP!
He snapped out of his reverie. He was thinking about her again, or daydreaming about her. They both seemed to meld together now. His thoughts, his dreams of her… I believe… Yes! That one particular morning. She had woken him, he was sure. She was softly humming in her sleep. He rolled over to watch her, -which he did quite often now. She was so, -peaceful, and beautiful when she slept.
"Hiccup…"
The way the morning sun made her skin glow sometimes… And her hair! That, -particular silver -blonde color… And it was so, -so soft… She was humming in her sleep. He watched as she stirred a little, a smile creeping across those wonderful lips of hers…
"Hiccup?"
She blinked awake. Her eyes roamed a bit. She rubbed her nose in the furs, then had turned to face him. Her eyes roamed a little more until they locked on his. He saw her blush madly, and turned her face away. No amount of prodding, or tickling could force her to tell him what she had been dreaming about…
"HICCUP!"
The face in front of him now looked very stern, maybe a little concerned. But there was a smirk there as well. Gods! Was he that easy to read? He needed to pay more attention. She huffed.
"I was saying, -Thanks for coming out. Borrgarr and Forkundr were being… Slightly impossible!" He smiled.
"Only slightly? Gosh, I'd hate to see them completely impossible!" She chuckled and smiled. It was good to see. She did that too infrequently anymore.
"That would be somewhere between murder, and mayhem… First one, -then the other…" He laughed as did she. -And it was good to see her in such good spirits… After they'd stopped, a small, -slightly uncomfortable silence followed. She opened and closed her mouth twice before she spoke.
"Hiccup? Elsa, -isn't still mad at me, -is she?" In truth, he wasn't completely sure. The hurt on her face needed placating.
"I, -I'm not… we, speak of you often enough… I asked her to come along, but her duties with the orphans, and the clothing shop… Take up much of her time. Along with the wedding preparations…" Her face fell, and she looked away slightly. She bit her lip, and looked at him again.
"Hiccup? I'm, -really happy for you both! I'm glad you have found someone!" Her face fell again. She had meant that, but…
"I guess… I guess, -I'll have to marry too! -Someday…" She looked at her lap. A smirk came to his face.
"Too bad Snotlouts' already taken, hey?" She looked at him incredulously. Before her laughter burst forth like a storm. They were both wiping their eyes after several moments.
"What… How? What is she doing with him anyway?" A few more chuckles escaped.
"Actually, she's a really nice girl, you'd like her. But I can't help but think… Behind closed doors, -he wears a frilly little apron while she lords it over the house!" She burst out laughing again.
"May I get you some tea my love? NO! Now shut it, -and clean that floor!" Her impressions were quite good. She actually snorted as she laughed. After a bit her face fell again. An idea came to him.
"Heather? Maybe, -Elsa, or her sister Anna, could match you with someone? A southern Lord, or Prince, maybe?" She gave a wan smile.
"Thanks Hiccup. But I've had my fill of these so-called nobles! While they may look pretty, I don't want someone whose toughest decision was how much to raise taxes… Or whose toughest fight was with the loaf of bread they had for breakfast! -No! -No thank you!" She frowned again, but put her hand on his arm.
"I appreciate the thought though." She smiled warmly. She then looked down then back at him.
"Hiccup? I may have found something. The battle you fought? I was meant… To eliminate you, -to remove the threat you posed. -To whom, -I don't know. But apparently, whoever it was has returned to the archipelago. -They mean to finish the job." A few names had come to mind, but who, -exactly? He saw that look in her eyes…
"Heather? -Don't! We can find out together! I know, Cami hasn't been very, -nice to you. But we need to do this together!" She shook her head.
"No Hiccup! None of you could get close enough. With my position, -I could find out who it is. Then -we could come up with a plan!" He didn't like it. Not one bit. He knew it was useless to try to dissuade her.
"Hiccup? It, -could get messy. I, -you shouldn't get involved in this." He liked it even less now!
"Heather…" He growled. She raised a hand to cut him off.
"Hiccup, Please! I, -I need to do this! Because, -because of what I've done. I need to show them too whose side I'm on…" No she didn't! But that look on her face… She knew him too well.
"Oh, -very well! But Heather? You get out! If it's gets too dangerous. We, -I need you, as Chief of Berserk!" She gave him another wan smile. She would be watched, he knew. But would Cami, and the Bogs get her out? They had better! He turned to go, but she stopped him.
"Hiccup?" He turned back to her. She took a few timid steps into his space, and wrapped her arms around him, squeezing firmly. He returned in kind. Her next words were a whisper.
"Thank you Hiccup! You're such a good friend! -You've always been, -nicer to me than I deserve!" She separated, and put her hand on his cheek. Rising on her toes, she planted a soft kiss on his cheek…
That was two weeks ago. Now she was missing, and it troubled him greatly. If she was gone from the archipelago, he could understand. But she wouldn't just leave and not tell him… Or at least leave word. And if she was still here, why hadn't anyone spotted her?
She was last seen on Lavalout island. So- it was a given that they were involved… They'd figured that out already. Someone wanted him dead… But who? And it was entirely possible that was who the deal was struck with… He and Elsa had spoken at length about it, but had come to no conclusion.
-And was it someone new? Or someone they had dealt with before? It almost had to be someone new. Everyone else… Drago was surely rotting in some dark corner of Hels' realm now. Dagur was gone too. That would only leave… But no, they had destroyed his fleet. And with it -him as well. They surely would have heard something by now…
He was jostled from his thoughts by a banging from the dais behind him. He turned. Spitelout was hammering on the table with his mug, gathering everyone's attention.
"Oi! Alright now! Everyone… Calm down! Take yer seats! Let's get this started!" They had all gathered. The Chiefs, the Heirs, their council members, and their generals. All the important people… He wasn't sure exactly why, but he had a feeling… But why were they keeping him in the dark about it? It was a tradition after all… And unnecessary one, by his reckoning. She had already met most of them. He had already started making plans for he and Elsa to do exactly this. Just he and her, taking their time… Visiting all the tribes… together…
Ach! Just an excuse then. To get dressed up, and throw a party. He himself was dressed in a particularly nice white tunic, with gold embroidery on the sleeves, and around the neck. There was a curious design embroidered on his chest in silver thread. It was a design he'd seen in Arendelle, but didn't know what it meant. His pants were newly made, -by Elsa! As was the shirt. -So his mom had told him. She had some skill, but the pants… They were very tight… Especially in the seat. He would have to talk to her…
-If he could find her. She had left him shortly after lunch. They had some quiet time together over some bread and fish stew. -And a few… Ok, -a lot of stolen kisses. Gods! It was harder and harder to focus anymore. Especially when she was near. And it wasn't all his fault! It seemed the more she learned… and the more he, -they learned about each other… It had grown into a torturous competition. Who could drive the other mad from across the square, or the street, or the room…
His thoughts were jostled again. It seemed the Goethi had arrived, and was scowling at him furiously. He bowed his head respectfully as did everyone else. The room fell silent. He heard the rattling of the charms on her staff. After a few more moments of silence, he heard her scratching on the floor. He heard Gobbers' footsteps…
"Upon this gathering, we ask of the Gods their blessings on this occasion! Of this meeting, of Chieftains and their councils, of allies and friends, to the official betrothal of Hiccup Haddock, Chieftain of Berk. And the fair maiden, Elsa Ellesmyre, Queen of Aredelle! May Freyja and Frigg smile upon their union! May Óðinn, the all-father guide us all!" She scratched a few runes on the floor. For safety and protection and truth. She then turned to him and bowed, then walked off to take her seat at the table. Spitelout cleared his throat and spoke.
"Some years ago, a boy was born to the Hooligan tribe. He'd come early, before his time. He was weak, and frail. Those of us that were there didn't think the child would last two days. But his father and mother, -they wouldn't give up on him. And sure enough, he survived those early days…"
"He grew into a young lad. Even then, we could tell he was different. He was quite good at drawing, and learned to read and write long before all the other children of his age. Ahhh, but his head was always in the clouds! He would chase after Gnomes and Trolls, nearly every time his father took him hunting or fishing. He would take apart anything he was given, just to see how it worked…"
"By the time the boy had grown into his teens, we had all but given up on him. He was still skinny and weak. He couldn't lift a hammer. Or an axe… But his mind… It grew even sharper! He learned the books. Of viking law and lore. He could recite the treaties by rote! His head, full of crazy ideas! Which he would put down precisely on paper. All these ideas, -meant to help the tribe. -Or how to down dragons…"
"And so it was, early one morning. During a dragon raid, after actually building one of those, -crazy contraptions… He used it! And because of that… He changed the very course of history! -And not only for his own tribe… But for all the vikings in the archipelago!" A great cheer went up. People were hooting, and shouting his name… Nearly every person in the room had a say. Spitelout raised a hand after a few long moments.
"The boy grew into a man… And with the dragons, started showing the mettle, and the determination… The cool head, and warm hands he would need later in life. He managed to neutralize two of the greatest threats… And chase off a ruthless bunch of dragon hunters. -And… Defeated a whole dragon army. Who would have enslaved us all!" Another great shout went up. He was feeling rather embarrassed by now. Eh, let 'em have it!
"The man became Chief! Aye! Before many of us thought he was ready… But in short time, he proved us wrong again! By sharing his ideas, and the dragons, he has improved the lives of every Viking! Bringing glory, and victory to his name! And sharing it with the rest!" Much murmuring and nodding of heads ensued…
"As you all know, -one of the many responsibilities of a Chief is to marry. And bring to the tribe an heir. A person to carry his name, long after he has been sent to Valhalla. Sadly, -his young wife was taken from us. In bringing another victory, we lost her… Before she was allowed to grace us with a child…"
"-But, it would seem, -the Gods have smiled upon him! And have sent us a young woman. And such a woman!" A small smile crept across his face, he shook his head…
"Why, I remember the first time I saw her. I, -didn't think her much… She was too soft, I'd thought… too weak… How this lass was even goin' ta survive up here… It was beyond me! -But! Within the first ten minuets, she showed her mettle! Aye! And put those council members in their places! With nothin' left for them to say but good morinin'! AYE! And in the next ten minuets, She showed the care and the warm heart we here on Berk have had the good fortune to experience!"
"-And ever since, she's shown that she is more than equal to the task! Takin' up with a dragon of her own… a-flyin' ta all the islands. Makin' friends, and further strengthening our ties with our allies! Assumin' all the duties as a proper Chieftains' wife! And more than that! She has shown she is willing, Aye! -And more than able to take up his mantle in his stead!" Another cheer. He smiled warmly…
"I feel sorry, -for you lot… I really do! Sorry, that ye canna see her, every day. She the way she cares for the people. They way she gladly gives of her time… And her heart, ta make sure they're cared for… Ta make sure we have what we need, -and then some… I feel…" He huffed, and shook his head slightly.
"-I… I've only know her for a short time… But I already feel as though… she's me own daughter, and a full member of the family…" A somewhat hushed sigh swept through the crowd. A few knowing nods. For him to make such an admission… He turned slightly. Were his eyes brightening? He rolled his shoulders…
"So!" He cleared his throat. "Many of you lot have already met her. But we felt, in accordance with the law, and the treaties we keep. Ta call this gatherin' ta introduce her proper… So ye can all meet her under better circumstance! So! Without further delay, I, Spitelout Jorgenson, by blood relation to Chief Hiccup Haddock of the Hooligan tribe, Introduce you to… Elsa Ellesmyre, -Queen of Arendelle!"
The doors opened, and out stepped two of the younger cabin boys. They stood in front of them, holding them open. They shouted in unison.
"QUEEN ELSA! LONG LIVE THE QUEEN!" Through the doors came a column of… Her ships' crew! There was the lieutenants Staubb and Verschtap! Two by two. Dressed in their full uniforms. Buttons and buckles shining. As soon as the last man cleared the doorway by a couple of steps, they stopped, then turned towards each other. They took two steps away, then drew their swords. They created an archway… They shouted as well…
"-LONG LIVE THE QUEEN!" An older gentleman came through… Was that… Captain Verschtop? He hardly recognized him! In all his finery, and medals… What came through the door next made the whole world stop.
He had seen her this way before. It seemed like so long ago… But it had only been, -three… Four? Months? All that time… It caused him to think of that first time… And the first time he had seen her like this… A collective gasp seemed to escape from everyone in the hall. Her full crown was atop her head. Her hair was done in Arendellian fashion. Bangs swept back, a single braid draped over her bare shoulders… oooh! Bare shoulders! Hee hee! There was a spattering of large ice crystals in it. Her dress was that shade of blue, and it sparkled too. Lacey-white sleeves adorned her arms. There was a long-ish white gossamer train that followed her.
He started to feel a little dizzy… Until he remembered to breathe. Gods! She was so beautiful! He then noticed too, the Captain now stood in front of him, bowing deeply. He returned in kind, then noticed Gobber. Oh yes! He was supposed to stand… He took a half-step, so both men flanked him. He glanced quickly at the smith, who winked at him, and smiled warmly.
Eugene was on her arm. He was all dressed up in his uniform too. White waistcoat and pants. Knee high black boots shining. Medals, ropes, chains, and sash… And circlet. He was going to have to watch out for him tonight. They strode up, backs straight, chins out. They stopped a few steps in front of him. His eyes locked with hers. He wanted to tell her, how beautiful she looked, but he couldn't… just yet. He barely noticed Spitelout striding up…
"Who presents this woman?" Eugene released her arm, and took her hand. He bowed.
"Eugene Fitzherbert! Prince of Corona! Cousin by marriage!" He bowed. Spitelout gave him one back. Eugene took Elsa by the arm, and led her the rest of the way. They stood facing each other a step and a half apart. Gobber spoke…
"Hiccup Horrendous Haddock the Third! Chief of the Hairy Hooligan tribe of Berk! Do you accept this woman?" Gods yes! Please just… get on with it already!
"I do!" There was a smile in her eyes… Those beautiful blue eyes… And on her lips too. Her eyes seemed to shine… No, those… she was tearing up! He absently made to move… but he caught himself. He couldn't just yet. He barely registered the large man next to him talking.
"And do you promise to protect her honor? And teach her Viking customs and lore… Of our laws and history? Of our treaties and agreements? -And the ways of the dragons? -Do you promise to keep her, and hold to this sacred bond, until such time as you take your vows?" Again… Please…
"I do!" He nodded, and turned to Elsa.
"Elsa Marie Ellesmyre! Queen of Arendelle! Ruler of the Northern Fjords! Do you accept this man?" She nodded and smiled.
"I do!" She looked at him. A single tear escaped, rolling off her cheek. Her eyes, and her face seemed to glow…
"Do you promise to honor him? Do you promise to be taught the ceremonies, and the customs? Do you promise to learn the duties and responsibilities of a Chiefs wife? -Do you promise to learn the ways of the dragons? Do you promise to keep him, and the tribe? Do you hold this bond sacred? Until such time as you take your vows?" She nodded again and another tear escaped. She sniffled a bit. She was looking at him with such… love and adoration… He was sure his heart would burst!
"I do!" She blinked a few more tears free. She smiled. Gobber bowed slightly. He took her right hand, and his, and placed them in each others'. They clasped wrists. Gobber placed their hands between his. He closed his eyes tightly. His mouth was moving, but no sound came out. He bowed his head, then lifted his face towards the roof, lips still moving. He stopped and released their hands. He placed a hand on each of their shoulders, and gave each of them a huge, beaming smile. He stepped back.
The rattling of the Goethis' staff broke the small pause. He was lost in her eyes again. She made huge circles with her hands, bringing them to her center. She handed her staff to… his mother! -Who stepped up briefly to present the older woman with a piece of folded cloth. She unraveled it. It was a simple, sheer strip of wool. About four inches wide, and about a foot and a half long. And on it were embroidered runes of guidance, and wisdom. -And also, -a strike class, and tracker class insignia!
The Goethi then wrapped their hands in the cloth. She sandwiched their hands in hers. She closed her eyes, and mouthed prayers. She released them after a few moments, then offered a warm, respectful bow to each of them. Spitelout stepped up, and held up his hands.
"Friends! Allies! Chieftains! I present to you, -Elsa and Hiccup! May Óðinn, the all-father grant them wisdom, and guidance. May Freyja, and Vár keep watch over their union! May Thor, and Magni grant them strength! The Gods be good, -we'll have the wedding at the end of the summer!" A chorus of shouts and prayers went up. The Captain bowed and walked around them. He placed a hand on theirs, and held his other one up until the crowd quieted.
"Let it be known, That I, Captain Heinz Verschtop, of Her Majesties' Royal Navy… Having been duly sworn… And being wholly sanctioned by the ruling council of Arendelle… Do hereby validate this ceremony! I judge this union fully legitimate, and binding! It is in accordance with international law, and it is in the spirit of Arendelles' customs and traditions! May all the Gods smile upon them! Let this not be only a beginning for them, but for all of us as well! Aye! The beginning of a new era for all of our peoples! -An era of great opportunities! -And a wealth of happiness for us all!"
A cheer went up. He barely noticed. He was looking at her. The smile on her face, the brightness of her eyes… It was truly one of those shining moments. They took a half-step towards each other. They took each others' free hand. She raised it up, and after caressing it with her cheek, placed a soft kiss on the back of it, then placed it over her heart.
He took hers, and placed a long soft kiss to it, then placed it over his heart. He looked deeply into her eyes…
"From my heart to yours, Elsa… Everything!" She smiled and nodded. Her eyes welled up…
"And from mine to yours, Hiccup… Everything!" They closed the gap between them. The kiss was long, but chaste. It transferred to each other all they were feeling… All that needed said….They separated. Valka stepped up, and carefully unwrapped their hands. He tilted his head slightly, and cocked an eyebrow. She bit her lip and nodded in-perceptively. They moved as one, and pecked her on her cheeks.
There was a scowl in her eyes, but a wide smile on her lips. She wrapped an arm around each of them and hugged. She placed a hand on their cheeks and smiled widely. A few tears escaped from her shining eyes.
They turned and faced the crowd. Her hand slipped effortlessly into his. They smiled and waved. He chanced a glance at her. She looked at him, and bit her lip, then leaned into him, placing her head on his chest, -just for a moment. The din died down after a few long minuets.
"Thank you all for coming… I, -I feel so blessed…" He looked for the words… He didn't really prepare anything… Maybe he should have… He looked… She gave him a small, encouraging nod.
"I, -I had been struggling with, -with my loss… I, -lost sight of that which I had… I thought the world… dark, and empty…" He paused and looked again…
"And then, I met this… Wonderful woman you see before you, -and everything changed! She made me see… With just a look, -she made me realize… All that I still had… That life could still be so much more… I hope you all can come to know her as I have. She can see in you beyond the now, and open your eyes to what the future could be…" He looked again. She was looking at him with pride and… and… He just wanted to sweep her off her feet and… well….He looked out again.
"I can't say, -I cannot tell you what the future holds for us, -for any of us! The storm clouds are rising! You've all heard, -it will be upon us… soon! But, if we hold to each other… These friendships, and trust… If we stay true to each other, -and hold our course… The future can be very bright indeed!" There was then a huge amount of applause and shouting. He turned to her. She was looking at him with such warmth and fondness. It was all he could do not to grab her, and kiss her silly. Her eyes darted to the crowd. He took her meaning. He released her hand, and took a step back. He bowed to her, and swept his hand towards them. He heard her giggle, then laugh. She curtseyed, then swatted him on the shoulder. She took a step. The room quieted after a few short moments. How did she do that?
"First of all, I would like to thank you all for the warm welcome you have given my people and I. Surely, it is an example for the whole world to follow!" She paused…
"Some months ago, -I ran into… Literally, -ran into… A young man in a forge in my country. And ever since, my life has been turned around. He showed me the same love and concern you show each other. And through him, I have learned, -so much more about myself. I have been challenged, to become so much more than what I was. He has given me the sky, -and my eyes have truly been opened! -Opened to a whole other world, to a whole other life! A life of good friendships, and opportunities I had never before even imagined were possible!" She smiled brightly. There were thoughtful nods, and knowing looks…
"Shortly before I arrived, Chief Haddock sent me a message. He detailed the troubles here, and voiced his concerns for me, and the people that serve me. I was very worried and troubled. But, he mentioned his friends and allies. How you were working to find out this conspiracy, and stop it in its' tracks. It quelled my fears some… And indeed! After meeting you, and seeing the care and concern, the way you treat each other… I could see my concerns were -completely unfounded! Truly! It is an example for all people to follow! And, it inspires me, -to do even more for those I serve, and the ones that serve me!" Gods! She was amazing! -And he loved her, so very much! Her expression changed slightly.
"I too cannot say what lies ahead of us. But one thing is certain… things will change. Indeed! Change is all around us! The air we breathe, the water that flows around the very islands we stand on… It happens whether we wish it or not. Change -in and of itself, is neither good, nor bad… It simply, -is! How we deal with the changes that happen is what makes us who we are! We must take the changes as they come, and forge ahead to our future!" She paused.
"There may indeed be dark days ahead. Days of conflict, and strife. Days, -the likes of which, I have not seen in my years… But I can see us… All of us! Pulling together, -helping each other along… Coming through these changes, and into a future, -as bright as the sun! Days of peace and prosperity for all!" A shout went up. Shouts of her name, and pounding of mugs on the tables. She held up a hand.
"As friends, and allies… For the welcome you have shown me and my people. For your care and concern… I make this solemn vow… I will give everything… Everything in my power to give, -and then some. To ensure this future becomes a reality! -And the Gods be good… May it last for many, many years!" The crowd roared. They loved her! There was never any doubt in his mind.
He felt something… shift. As if a great wheel or cog had been set in motion. Great events were coming together… Happenings… Everything beyond his control… He shrugged it off. He held up a hand.
"Let's eat!" They walked around and took their seats. On her left sat Eugene, the Admiral Tesselig, the General Scherr. the Captain, and Mister Tennance. On his right, Spitelout, his mother, the Goethi, Gobber, and Hoark. There was every kind of meat and fish. Fresh vegetables, and bread. Also ale, mead of all sorts, and also some wine from Arendelle and Corona. After the meal, there was sweetbread, and dried fruits. They shared looks, and playfully fed each other small bits of food. When they had finished she scooted her chair a bit closer. She slipped her arm around his waist and leaned into him. He kissed her hair. She let out a contented sigh.
"This is wonderful Hiccup! Look at them all! They're all enjoying themselves!" Indeed they were. Animated conversations were taking place all over. Many smiles, and claps on the back. The thoughts crept in. He tried to stamp them down, but apparently, he wasn't quick enough. She pulled away from him a little.
"Hiccup?" She looked worried. He smiled, it wasn't entirely fake.
"I'm sorry, I should be enjoying this…" Her eyes searched his for a moment. She leaned back into him, her other arm snaked around his waist and she hugged him.
"It is -this storm, isn't it." He nodded. It seemed to cast a pall over everything they did anymore. The clouds were right there, over their heads. They were just waiting for the downpour. He hated it, -but what could they do?
"I just hope… That after, -we can all meet like this again…" She nodded, then straightened. She looked deeply into his eyes. She cupped his cheek with her hand.
"We will, Hiccup! -We will!" She kissed his forehead. They locked eyes… And there it was! How did she do that? He believed her, mind, body, and soul. Yes they would! And times would be even better than now…
The meal finished, and tables were moved. The musicians picked up their instruments. He took her hand and led her over. They stood in the center, and faced each other. He smiled and cocked an eyebrow, as did she. The music started. He bowed, she curtseyed. They stepped together, and locked their upright arms. They circled each other, then turned. They locked their other arms and circled. They faced each other again, then joined hands. Stepping in to each other, first one side, then the other, spreading their arms as they did. They did this twice, and on the last, he ducked in and pecked her on the cheek. She smiled demurely, and cocked an eyebrow when they faced each other. Challenge accepted… The game was on!
She gave him her back, and they joined hands again. Stepping left, then right. They did this twice, and on the last, she tilted her head, and pecked him on the cheek. His right hand dropped to her waist. He gave her a small squeeze, that caused her a slight misstep. She shot him a glare, but the corners of her mouth were curled slightly. He led her around in a small circle. She turned so they were facing opposite each other. Her right hand dropped to his stomach. He detected a slight widening of her fingers before her hand slid around his waist. His brain went foggy, and his foot caught something on the floor. He stumbled. He shot a look at her, but she smiled widely, and laughed that laugh…
The rest of the dance was much the same. A hand left a half-beat longer, a slight brushing of hips, A face darting in, the retreating. They ended facing each other. She curtseyed, he bowed. She looked so smug… He didn't notice the cheering and clapping. After a few short moments, she turned and held up a finger to the musicians. They started playing the next tune… It was… was…
The tune from the garden! Their first, well, -not officially… but… That, -that first kiss! She stepped in to him. She took his hand. He placed his on her waist… And they danced. Spinning, twirling, bouncing… Their eyes were locked. The rest of the world melted away… This dance was so much better. They weren't hiding… They knew, -without a doubt, what they felt for each other… And he was in front of his family and friends. They spun and twirled for hours it seemed. They stopped of their own accord. He didn't know if the music had stopped… They stood there. Her hand slid up his arm to his shoulder. His dropped to her waist. They moved together, and kissed. Deeply, passionately, -though still modest. They ended, and rested their foreheads together. He breathed the words…
"I love you, Elsa!" She breathed them back…
"And I love you, Hiccup!" they stood there, locked together, breathing each other in until the music started playing again. This tune… Now this was their first dance! He smiled as he remembered how it all started… Being shoved from behind by Rapunzel… He wouldn't take it back, not for a second! They stepped, they twirled, and stepped again. He lifted her up, then set her down. She was smiling and laughing the whole time. She gave him a look as she stepped away to her new partner.
He was met by Gjaflaug. She smiled brightly. She looked so happy! He was glad for her. Things could have turned out so differently for her… Step, twirl, step, -lift, step, twirl… She flashed him a smile as she stepped away. He was then met by his mother. He wiggled his eyebrows. -She cuffed him on the side of his head. Step, step, -twirl, step… She frowned as she left.
He was met by a young girl, Dark brown hair, green eyes… He thought of another, but no… This was Brana, Daughter of a Meathead General. A lovely girl, but he wished Heather was here with them. At least he'd know she was safe.
As he was lifting his last partner, Gunna. He felt something shift, and a small stab of pain on the end of his leg. Entirely bearable, but he took it as a cue that he needed to stop for a while. He turned. Elsa was being confronted by Trófastr. She would be occupied. She gave him a look, but he shook his head, and held a hand up. She bit her lip and nodded. She took up the next dance with a smile to his friend.
He retrieved a cup of watered mead, and leaned against a column. He watched Elsa for a bit, then all the smiling faces. It warmed his heart that everyone was having such a good time. Gods! He wished these times would last longer than they seemed to… He was jolted out of his thoughts by a clap to the shoulder. He looked. Eugene was brushing off his jacket and adjusting his boot.
"By the Gods Hiccup! I've never seen Elsa so… Happy! -And it's all your fault!" He smiled widely.
"Thanks Eugene. She's so… So beautiful like this! I, -I hope I can keep her this way…" The thoughts crept up, but he squashed them. The prince gave him a warm smile.
"Don't worry Hiccup! I'm sure you'll have no problem in that regard!" He smiled.
"So how is Tindr treating you?" He frowned slightly.
"Well enough, -but sometimes, he seems, I dunno, -down, -a little… But he is so awesome and amazing!" He nodded and smiled.
"You need to tell him that! They get a little forlorn… They still feel for their first rider, -the first person they bond with. Try taking him to a deserted island and have him blow something up, or at least set something on fire. That always helps! You could try putting him down by his horns too. It may seem harsh, but they like it. My cousin Snotlout could give you a few more tips." He smiled.
"Thanks Hiccup!" He was yanked out of his line of sight by Camicazi…
"C'mere! Pretty man!" She had a wicked grin on her face. He hoped she knew he was married. But, eh! It's just a dance anyway… Right? He felt a heavier hand on his shoulder. Bertha stepped up next to him chuckling.
"Ahhh, Hiccup! Yer father, he would be very happy… and proud -on this day!" He nodded.
"Thank you! I, -I just…" He looked down, then back at her. She gave his shoulder a gentle shake.
"Hiccup?" He felt like he…
"Bertha? I, -I don't want any of this… I can't help feeling as if I have to choose… I wouldn't give up any of them, -not one person in this room!" She nodded, her face a bit grim.
"Aye! Hiccup! It's a hard choice we all have ta make sometimes. -But would ye rather sit here, and party yer arses off… While this storm rolls over the top o' us?" He shook his head.
"NO! -Definitely not!" She nodded.
"Aye! It's the right choice! Ye ride out, and face it! And pray the Gods smile on ye!" He nodded.
"Hiccup, your woman there, -there's more to her than what she seems! Even more, I'll wager, and she'll show us, before it's all over… We'll all be fine!" He gave her a smile and a nod. He wished he could share that sentiment. She was the one he wouldn't give up. He would gladly lay down his life… But, -a bit selfishly, he would rather not… In the end, he prayed that they would come through this…
"Now, if you will excuse me, I must see if I can get me a dance wi' the pretty one too!" She turned, and scampered… Scampered! -Across the room like a school girl. She came up behind Cami, and punched her in the shoulder, and ducked down. When Cami turned, she slipped around and right in front of Eugene, and danced off with him. Cami turned back and stiffened. She stamped her foot viciously.
"MOM!" Bertha turned them and stuck out her tongue at her daughter. She stomped off towards the serving area.
He felt another presence at his side a few moments later. He was watching Elsa, who was now dancing with Dogsbreath. She was shining… Truly! He turned, it was Admiral Tesselig. He gave a polite bow.
"My Lord!" He gave him a respectful nod. He didn't want to talk business anymore… The Admiral sighed.
"Ahhh, It does us all so well, to see Her Majesty so happy…" He said. He nodded absently, not really paying attention.
"-And this union! The power and prestige it brings! It will surely be a boon to us all!" He only caught the tail-end of that.
"I'm sorry… Admiral?" He gave a condescending look. He didn't like it.
"My Lord, -Surely… With the beasts you command, -the, tactical advantage they present…" He cut him off.
"First of all, they're not beasts! -They are intelligent animals! -Very intelligent! And second, I don't command them… No one does! This is where you people get it all wrong! -And third, -Yes! They do pose a huge tactical advantage! So much so, that no army or navy can stand against them! Such an advantage you'll be able to see for yourself, in the coming days, -if you're not careful! Something you can watch come to its' bloody, horrible conclusion!" His voice was rising, but he didn't care. He spluttered.
"But… My Lord… Once you bring the dragons… They would also be a deterrent to…" He cut him off again. He was starting to lose his temper.
"What? Bring them south? Where they have been hunted to extinction? Where they have been driven off completely? No! -Sir! It is my intention to never bring them south again. -And let me tell you why… Once their newness has worn off, -once you have conquered all the lands your petty heart desires, even after having bled for you, -You would still only see them as tools… A means to and end! Then, you would enslave them. Breed them for fighting… So they can bleed again, for sport and for gold! NO! The dragons. Stay. HERE!" He was truly angry. The Admiral had the stones to scoff.
"My Lord… This… union you seek? It has not been fully approved by the council. With but a word, I could…" What? Did he really mean to… Oh he was going to get… His thoughts were interrupted by the Captain.
"Admiral? What in Hels' name is goin' on here?" The Admiral was indignant.
"Nothing that concerns your ears, -CAPTAIN!" Heinz went red in the face.
"Oh AYE? Perhaps I should remind ye… I have the Queens' commission, -you do not! I have been sworn by the council… You have not! I have taken the vows of the Regents… You have not! I hold the sash of the Royal Crocus, -with the silver flake! You do not! SO! Unless ye want command of some dinghy, in some shit-hole corner of the world… YE WILL STAND DOWN!" There was pure murder in his eyes…
"Very well… When we get back to Arendelle… We will have a talk, -concerning your commission!" The Captain grinned.
"-No we won't!" The Admiral huffed. He gave a curt bow and stomped off. Elsa came up beside him, and gripped his arm. Heinz watched the other man go.
"I never did like that man!" He said, matter of factly. He turned back and bowed deeply.
"F'give me Highnesses, fer interrptin' yer celebration!" She looked at him quizzically, then at the Captain.
"What happened?" He was about to open his mouth when Heinz cut him off…
"Your Majesty! I'm afraid the Admiral was being an impertinent ass!" He nodded.
"The Captain here was making trouble!" He saw Heinz turn his head slightly. He grinned widely.
"I See…" There was a small smirk that appeared on her face. She bit her lip and released his arm. She clasped her hands in front of her. She stood, -back straight, chin out… Facing the Captain.
"I'm afraid you leave me no choice Captain! -I hereby relieve you of your command!" He straightened slightly, Then bowed.
"Your Majesty!" What, what was she doing?
"A suitable replacement shall be found for the ship, when the opportunity presents itself! I give you leave to retain as many of the officers below you as you please. Do I make myself clear?" He bowed again…
"Of course! Your Majesty!" She paused, for only a moment…
"You shall henceforth, -consider yourself part of my personal staff! You will answer to me, and only to me! I shall commission you Lord Admiral, in such time as the papers can be drawn! Do I make myself clear?" He opened his mouth and closed it a couple of times before he spoke.
"Yes! Yes, of course! Your Majesty!" She held out her hand. He took a knee, and kissed it tenderly. She took a half-step back.
"Rise, Lord Admiral!" He did and bowed again. He then turned to face him. He took a knee.
"And to you, Lord Haddock! I pledge my sword, my life! Anything you would ask of me, -it shall be done!" He appreciated the gesture but…
"Thank you Heinz! But if you want to kiss my hand, I'm afraid you're out of luck!" Heinz tilted his head slightly. "Ha!" -He chuckled. He stood, and bowed deeply.
"Highnesses!" He turned on his heel and left them. He turned to her.
"That was… was…" She smiled and shrugged her shoulders.
"I had been meaning to promote him for a while now…" She turned to him, and absently smoothed his tunic. She smirked, then bit her lip.
"Are you, -quite sure you don't want him to kiss your hand? I could call him back here, -it would be…" He snaked his arms around her waist, and pulled her to him a bit forcefully. She looked at him through her eyelashes.
"No! I'm afraid… The only one allowed to kiss me from this day forward, -is you!" He leaned in and kissed her. They broke apart. She scrunched her face and her shoulders.
"I'd say, -I got the better end of the deal!" She smiled and bit her lip.
"Indeed you did! My Queen!" She laughed that laugh. The next number of moments were roaming hands and eyes… Her face, her hair, her shoulders… still bare! -He would have to do something about them… He caressed her cheek with a finger. Gods! They were so close… Just a few, -hopefully short months, then the ceremony… Then… then… He was about to tell her. How beautiful she was, how lucky he felt to have her. -To mutter a prayer to the Gods, thanking them for this blessing…
His thoughts were crushed by a thunderous boom. He looked. The doors had been flung open. A girl stood there… Ra, -ran, Raneigh! She was a Bog. But… He saw Spitelout storming over, even from this angle, there was murder in his eyes. The girl took a knee as he reached her. He flung his arms out, ducking his head. Then he stopped, and took a step back as if he'd been struck. His head ducked again. Bertha and Cami walked up. He stiffened, then turned his head looking. Their eyes locked. He knew that look! Something had happened, and it wasn't good!