"Hurry up Hiccup!" It was really getting annoying. He had to get this right…
"Yeah! Hurry up!" Humph! -Women… He wished he could understand them…
"I'm sorry, but this can't be rushed… And didn't you girls say something… What was it? -Oh yeah… It's OK to be Fashionably Late! Or some such nonsense?" His statement elicited a titter from one, and a huff from the other…
"Well, we're girls! It's OK for us! Besides, we needed the extra time to make sure we looked our best!" He huffed.
"I told you a gazillion times you looked fine!" A wry smile crossed the elders' lips. Here it comes…
"I don't remember, my memory is a little fuzzy… Was that before or after the mead?" He snorted.
"Before… During, -AND after My Sweet!" She wasn't fooling him. And sure, he may have had four, -no, -six….no, eight? Cups of mead? Plus a bit of ale, -oh! There was a glass or two of wine… And he couldn't remember exactly… Four tiny glasses of that… Brandy? Things got a little fuzzy after that. What he did remember is waking up next to her, -both naked, in the middle of some field off the beaten paths. Good thing too! They both would've never heard the end of it. And while he was pretty sure they hadn't… you know… It sure made for a good private joke, -especially between them.
It had been at the feast after the battle. They had postponed it for need of taking care of the business. And also for the rebuilding of the Murderous village. -So many lives lost… They honored the dead, and celebrated their victory in true viking fashion. He'd promised himself he wouldn't, But well… It was a grand gathering. It lasted three whole days and nights…
There! Finished! He had to make some adjustments to Toothless' harness. He'd taken a blast from the queen on the mountain, and had to be carried off. He seemed to heal up fine, but still even now, some of the scales at his joints hadn't grown back completely. He didn't complain, but he knew… He could, -feel his discomfort. It was a bit odd, after knowing him for so long, not knowing for sure… He could now tell what he was thinking. Not like he was speaking, he just, -knew… And it wasn't just Toothless. Even the wild dragons he had encountered since… Since Elsas'… Visit…
Before, it was a matter of watching their body language, their eyes, their postures… But now, he could feel what they were thinking, and if he concentrated a little, he could feel what they were feeling. He could also tell where Toothless, and for that matter Hulda, and even sometimes -Cloudjumper, -where exactly they were and what they were doing. He had even managed to call them to him, -not with a whistle, or call… but with a thought. He thought he was going mad, until he spoke to Elsa about it.
It was then that she told him. She told him of her visit to Valhalla. Of her meeting his father and, -Astrid -And Odin himself! -And their charge… He was a bit upset that she hadn't spoken of it earlier, it had been a rather busy time. But he was more upset at the implications… And what would that do to the tribe? -All of them? What would the people say or do about this? Would they think them mad? Maybe, -maybe not… It was a charge from the Gods, it was out of his hands…
Elsa told him that she too had a stronger connection. She could feel more of what they were thinking, and could commune with them more easily now. And she could tell where nearly all of them were at any given time. And it seemed she could call them to her too. She didn't mention anything about her ice powers, only what she had been told. It seemed that now that she didn't have to worry about them as much, she was calmer, and a bit more jovial than before.
And what exactly was this "reprieve" they had received? -From their normal human lives? He could still chuckle at that a little. His life, -her life had been anything but… And if he thought about it a little… Elsa had been buried in the debris from the queen when she was destroyed… A couple of the blocks, only Hulda could move. -And there was a tiny incident where he had hit his hand with a hammer, helping with the rebuilding… He was sure he had broken something. But in a days' time… It was like nothing had ever happened… It was odd…
He cinched down the last strap and then tied on the saddle bags. He placed a hand on his head.
"How's that Bud?" He shifted his weight from one paw to the other, then wriggled. He didn't need his new understanding for his answer. The gummy smile and bright eyes spoke volumes.
+Good! Better! Let's go!+ He smiled back at him. Another thought crossed his mind. The one thing about all of this… The thing causing him sleepless nights, and his throat to close up when he thought them… He only had a finite time left with his best friend… Or did he? They would need dragons to find other dragons… Sooo. He wasn't one to second-guess the Gods. But that one fact was plain. And after they had gathered them… What then? It led to where they were now, and where they were going…
He gingerly climbed in the saddle watching Toothless carefully. When there weren't any signs of stress, they took off. Anna was riding Tofi, the Changewing this time. It seemed now he and Æsa were a mated pair. Whether there would be any actual mating was now in question. Anna had indeed taken to visiting the stables every day, taking a special interest in the unpaired dragons. She was a quick study, and a big help. She bonded quickly and deeply with her dragon charges. Leaving others to tend to the more wounded and sickly, and more others to train the newer riders. It all seemed a little moot to him now, as there were fewer and fewer dragons left…
Something was stirring in the dragons' world. He and Elsa both felt it, but had said nothing. They had taken it as a sign that they needed to be wary. They had taken to watching, paying attention to any small sign, or portent that their time was drawing near. It wasn't until Fishlegs, and then Trófastr had mentioned it that he said anything at all.
He asked the two to join him on a survey to the rookery. It was then he told them. Fishlegs was visibly upset, Trófastr merely nodded and gave his thoughts. What with the brothers' actions, then Dragos'… It kind of made sense to him that something needed done. -To keep the dragons from falling into the hands of bad people.
A wingtip jostled him from his thoughts. Elsa and Hulda swooped in front of him and they gave chase. They turned and dove and banked. He finally managed to get under them and, -there! He reached up, and scratched Huldas' belly vigorously in a particular spot. The dragon tittered madly and tucked in her wings, causing them to fall from the sky. Elsa yelped loudly and hung on until she recovered. A scowl was on her brow, -and a slight smile on her lips. Score one for him! Anna nearly fell off her dragon laughing.
It had taken some time for her to heal fully. Even now she still had a few problems. She never said anything, and he didn't press… too much. They had been a proper couple now for a while and continued to spend at least part of every day with each other. They had even taken to having one full day a week to themselves. They were moving closer, and closer to the point where they would be fully joined… but… the wedding…
The wedding had been moved back, -a few times now. It was maddening, -but there was so much going on. So much that needed taken care of. It now looked like they wouldn't be married until mid-to-late Fall. It was the traditional time after all. But he felt bad for her. He couldn't miss the sad expressions, when she would return from the orphans' hall. Or the wistful looks at the married couples. He marked it down as part and parcel. -It seemed there was always a delay somewhere as far as their relationship went…
-Such as now. The gathering had been called. A mere few months before the wedding. Everyone had been mum as far as what it was about. But he had guessed, -they wanted to get the matter of unification out of the way, and establish his Kingship. It was all the same to him. He never wanted it, -and with the Gods charge on them, he couldn't see how it was possible. How was he supposed to rule an entire archipelago of violent people, when he wouldn't be there. How was this supposed to work? With them traipsing off to Gods knew where in search of dragons?
He would tell them. He would tell them all this day, and then… well, see what happened. Fishlegs and Trófastr had been silent at his request. -No one else knew. But they would today and well, maybe someone would come up with an idea of what it all meant. He huffed to himself. More than likely, it would raise more questions than it answered…
Meathead island soon came within sight. They dropped down and landed in the square to uproarious applause. He thought it might be for him, but no, -he hadn't done much, she was the one who defeated the queen. And this was the first time Elsa had truly been out in public. But there was that one time…
The Danger-Brutes had started to make inroads. It seemed they wanted in on the new alliance that was forming. They were going about it all wrong, and had caused a little trouble for some trade ships on their end of the archipelago. Elsa took Anna, Heather, and Camicazi over to talk to them. She told him it was a learning experience for the other women. Oh, -to have been a fly on that wall… Within a week, there were presents showing up on their doorsteps and a new trade agreement with more than favorable terms. When he asked her, she only said that she and the others…"Charmed the pants off of them." Huh! He left it at that.
Elsa slid out of the saddle. She stumbled a little when her feet hit the ground. He wasn't sure anyone else had noticed, but he did. Damn! So she was still having problems. She seemed to take it like the queen she was, but he made sure to make eye contact with her. He would be there, with hot baths and nimble fingers on her worst days…
He received several pats on the back, and warm firm handshakes in greeting himself. Several friendly familiar faces greeted him. In the background, he saw Kristoff run up. Anna jumped into his waiting arms. He had arrived about a week ago. He had brought more papers with him, and had immediately gone to work, speaking with the other chiefs and their councils. He had even gone as far as teaming up with Anna, and taking over his duties for a bit so he could spend time with Elsa. He had gathered a small following in the short time he'd been here, and Anna had grown a bit protective of him.
A familiar voice caught his ear to his left. The man bowed respectfully. "My Lord!"
"Timothy! It's been a while!" The man smiled widely and shook his hand.
"Aye, Milord! It has!" He had not seen much of him since the night of the attack, but had heard the stories of how he had stood up for his friend. He had also heard some other things…
"You're looking well Sir Timothy! How's your mistress?" It was a tiny inside joke… He thought it was funny anyway… The young man blushed a bit and spluttered.
"Ahh, well, she… She's fine, and erm doing… well, -that is to say…" He looked up and his eyes went a little wide. He received a violent punch to the arm. He nearly fell over.
"Mistress? MISTRESS! I am a Chief! If, if anything… He's MY Mistress!" He grinned against the pain.
"Heather, that makes little, -to no sense at all!" The raven-haired woman narrowed her eyes and smirked.
"Well, I am Chief! I don't have to make sense! Isn't that right? -My mistress…" The man spluttered again.
"Too right! Yes my dear! Ahmmm My Chief!" They shared a chuckle. Heather wrapped her arms around his neck and hugged. A bright smile greeted him when they separated.
"Hello Hiccup! It's good to see you two out and about! Elsa is looking well!"
"Thank you Heather. She still has a few problems every now and then, but she's doing well." She had been a big help. She had received a vicious beating at the hands of Viggo and Ryker. But as soon as she was able, she was at his side, acting as his second. The tribe saw it for what it was. She was trying to make amends for her indiscretion. She and Cami had butted heads a few times, but all was well now. She visited often, and she and Elsa were good friends. Elsa joined them a moment later. The two women shared a fond embrace, and started walking arm in arm towards the Great Hall. He and Timothy followed.
They separated as they went through the doors. His group had been given the whole other end of the room. It was quite unprecedented. Anna, Kristoff, Rapunzel, and Eugene were all foreigners. And as such wouldn't normally be allowed at such a gathering. But they were all family. And even though he and Elsa were not yet married, They were only a ceremony and a few vows away. It was close enough for them.
Thuggory walked into the middle of the circle of tables. He held up his hands and spoke.
"Alright you lot! Let's get this started!-First… Welcome! Friends and allies! I hope you all will have a great stay here on Meathead Island! Please! All of the tribe welcomes you and will help with anything you need during your stay!" A cheer went up, followed by the traditional banging on the tables. He held up his hand again.
"First off! I would like to recognize our new friends from the South! Princess Anna Ellesmyre, and Master Kristoff Bjorgman of Aredelle! And here, Princess Rapunzel, and Prince Eugene of Corona! Welcome! And I speak for all the Chieftains gathered here, were it not for your support, and your assistance. Many of us would not be here today! Thank you friends!" Another cheer went up. The mentioned parties stood and tipped their heads politely. They sat down after a few moments. Thuggory continued.
"Alright! Ye all know why we're here. We've talked about it between ourselves, but it's time to make it official! Should we, or should we not all band together as one tribe? -As one… Kingdom? With one of us, speaking for all of us? Leading us… One we turn to in times of strife?" He couldn't miss the slight turn of his gaze upon him, just for a second…"One who will look out for us? To ensure peace and plenty are had for all? Well, now's the time ta speak our minds. -As one! And have everyone's thoughts on the matter heard!" Another sidelong glance. What was going on? -No matter…
"Now, before we begin, If anyone has anything to say, speak now… If not, we will attend to the business at hand." This was unusual! Did he know? Or did someone mention he wanted to speak beforehand? No matter, now was the time. He had been dreading this. He didn't know… How would they take… As he pushed back, there was a hand on his arm. Elsa smiled and gave an encouraging nod, and a squeeze. He smiled back. He walked into the center. He could feel all the eyes focused on him. Too late now… He addressed them all.
"While Elsa was in her sleep, -she visited Valhalla! There, she met my father, and Astrid. Odin himself has given us a charge!" A murmur passed through the crowd. There were many wide eyes and disbelieving looks.
"We are to find the dragons and take them. -Take them far away, -further than anyone has traveled! -And return them to the Gods, so they may be sent back to their own world…" Many mouths fell open there was a short bit of silence… just before pandemonium erupted.
"Blasphemy!" Someone shouted. "What will we do?" "It is an ill omen! The Gods are angry!" "they mean… They mean to keep the dragons to themselves!" -That one stung… Did they not trust him? He expected a small bit of upset, but this was… He looked side to side. Voices grew louder, angry arguments started. This went on for a few long moments before it started dying down. He looked up, and saw that Elsa had come from around the table to join him. As she got closer, the voices died out. She took his hands in hers and squeezed. She kept a hold of one as she turned to face them.
"It's true! -All of it! I have had visions… I have been shown the place! -The place where we are to take them. We don't know exactly how, or when… But the why is clear enough…" She squeezed his hand again. And he told them. Something that had been in the back of his mind ever since going south. The conversations he had had with the military people in Corona. The sidelong glances at Toothless…
"The dragons were never meant for us! It was only through maligned fate, and miscalculation that they are here. And after the Grombolds, and Drago… The only way they can be kept from evildoers is for them to leave…" More discussions broke out, but not as heated. The next part, he knew they wouldn't like… Dogsbreath spoke.
"But Hiccup, Elsa… Our dragons… the ones we have now… And the dragon training?" He looked at him pleadingly.
"We are a bit, -unsure of the details right now. We can keep the dragons we now have, and dragon training will still be held… Especially for the young. We must keep the knowledge and lore alive, for as long as we can." He could almost feel the relief washing over the crowd.
"-But things are stirring in the dragons' world. Surely many of you have noticed… There are fewer and fewer dragons in the wild. They seem to be gathering at the nest… And in light of this, we have decided that all contact, -all flights to the nest must be restricted from now on…" This caused another round of angry shouts. "What? He can't do that!" "Who do they think they are?" Really?
"I'm sorry, I really am! But this is out of my hands. And starting next week, A constant watch must be kept on our waters, especially to the south… And the waters around the nest constantly patrolled, so that no one may slip in and try to lure the dragons out…" More angry conversations started up anew. They rose to a crescendo, until there was a loud bang on the table behind him. He nearly jumped out of his skin. He turned, and Thuggorys' hammer had put a good-sized dent in it.
"ENOUGH! This is a serious, and weighty subject. -One that will need further discussion. But I agree with them! If the dragons are leaving us, it would seem wise to not disturb them too much! -And the watches and patrols… This will be discussed possibly tomorrow! But for now, We need to get the current matter out of the way!" So he wasn't getting out of this after all… Then it struck him.
As Chief, or King, anything he said would become law. -Anything! It would be his part, his contribution to their safety. His way to protect them… He huffed to himself. He still didn't want it, but it seemed the Gods had other plans… All along!
He stood there leaning up against a column watching the crowd. Well… Watching one person in particular. Ahhh! She looked so happy! She was dancing with Gustav at the moment. He seemed to be enjoying himself too, and why not? He looked around a little bit and spotted Anna. She was dancing with a young lad half her age. And over there, Rapunzel. It seemed the girls were making a point to dance with all the young lads in attendance. Much to the consternation and dismay of the older men. Eh! It was all good fun, and everyone was enjoying themselves…
He sighed to himself, and took another drink of his watered mead. He wasn't going to take any chances, -not this close to the wedding. He also didn't wish for his head to get too clouded. There was a lot to think on, still many questions to be answered. About how it would all work…
He had reluctantly accepted to become their leader. And in light of everything, he couldn't deny it was the right choice. He would be in a greater position to protect the dragons, and after all… It was the thing that mattered to him. Plus in light of their union, having one person and one place for the new trade to have contact with made sense also. -And it made everyone happy.
The music ended. Elsa gave a deep curtsey to her partner. -Who was quickly snatched away by a young lass. Upon spotting him, she bounced over to him. He noticed a slight misstep… No, -no good to badger her about it, -not tonight. He held out a cup to her as she approached. She smiled and took a long sip. She gave him a look over the top of her cup. Gods! She was so beautiful! Even with her hair a little mussed… And the light in her eyes, the flush on her cheeks…
Her expression changed a little. There was that slightly smoky look in her eyes. She grinned at him and took a half-step. She sidled up against him snaking an arm around his waist. She squeezed tightly. They watched the crowd for a few moments.
"This always make you happy, doesn't it." He felt her nod.
"It does, Hiccup! And we made this happen." They did. It made him a little happier, but… Another thought crossed his mind. She seemed to pick up on it instantly. Ach! This woman. He felt her look up at him. They locked eyes.
"Hiccup? I, know you didn't want this. -But together, we'll work this out!" He knew that, and she was trying to cheer him up…
"I just, -I don't want anything else… I don't want it to further take up any of our time…" She flushed a little more and squeezed a little tighter.
"Don't worry, -we'll make time!" They would. The smile on her face… He didn't want it to leave. He chose to not think on it any more this night. He slid an arm around her and squeezed. They shared a short sweet kiss, and looked out again.
Another tune started up. Elsa sat her cup down, and took him by the arm rather forcefully. They formed up in a circle. They bowed. He took her and spun to the right, then to the left. They hooked arms, circling left -then hooking the other arm, right. He took her by the waist. Then picked her up and spun. Then set her down. They circled for four beats, then changed partners.
There was Anna. She looked so bright and cheerful. -But then it was always so… Even during Elsas' sleep. Sure, he could see a cloud over her features from time to time, but she would dispel it with a shrug and a sigh. He had made it a point to drag her or Kristoff, -or both along with him in his dealings. It would be valuable experience, and would afford them a chance to meet everyone.
Next was Heather. There was a flush on her cheeks too. He suspected… Well, unless he missed his guess, there would be yet another marriage to handle. -But not for a while yet…
Then there was Rapunzel. Ahhh! He really wanted to spend time with her, but they would be leaving soon. She had spent nearly all her time with the Murderous. It seemed she had her own powers of healing. -And just her mere presence… He knew this… It had been talked about all across the archipelago! There was something soothing, calming… just being around her…
"Rapunzel? Could we -ahhh, spend some time together? Before you go?" She smiled, and cupped his cheek with her hand.
"Of course! Hiccup!" He was infinitely glad. He knew their talk would be fruitful.
He was faced next with Gjaflaug. She too was looking quite happy, and seemed to blush a little as they danced. He was glad. Her father had taken issue. His memory seemed to fail him as far as him disowning her. He had been instantly angry on her behalf. As far as he was concerned, he would speak for her! HE would be the one to give her away… She had worked tirelessly in the background, -for both of them. He'd be damned before he would let anyone mar her existence!
He paired up with Elsa again. She shot him a look, a cocked eyebrow… Was, -was she jealous? He shot right back at her, curling his mouth just so… She was instantly defenseless. Score another for him! She scowled for a second, then it was gone. The music ended. They separated just a bit. Another tune started up. This one… this one… Yes! Within the first few notes… He took a step back, and drew his arm across his waist, bowing deeply.
"May I have this dance? My Queen?" He held out his hand. He could feel her smile. She performed a full-on curtsey. -Bent deeply at the knees and waist, tipping her head…
"Of course, My King!" He took her right hand in his left, placing his right on her waist. Her right hand slid up his arm to his shoulder. It set off a warm glow over his entire body. -And they danced. Ahh! That first dance… In the gardens at the palace… That first kiss… He glanced around quickly, they then locked eyes. It was just like… There was nothing else but her. That smile… That light in her eyes… Gods! He loved her! With everything in him, -he loved her!
The music stopped ages later it seemed. They stood facing each other. He caressed her cheek with the back of his finger. She took his left hand and drew it up, placing a tender kiss to the back of it. She then placed it over her heart. They shared a tender, lingering kiss. Filling each other with their feelings… Someone cleared their throat behind them. They separated, and turned toward the source. Kristoff held Annas' hands in his in the middle of the floor. He backed a few more steps away… He and Elsa shared a curious look. What… Kristoff held a hand up.
"Ahhh, Excuse me… Everyone! Erm I… I…" He seemed to deflate a little and closed his eyes. When he opened them again, there was a determination there… He spoke clearly.
"Several years ago, a powerful winter storm struck my country, in the middle of summer! Determined to find the cause, I set out from my home…" He could feel Elsa tense a little, then relax. Kristoff continued.
"Somewhere along the way. I met a small but feisty young maiden, who was determined and brave enough to face the dangers involved to save her sister, and her people. At first, I thought her… Quite annoying, and well… Something of a bother… But I made a choice to help her, not knowing at the time… It would be one of the best choices I ever made!" Anna was scowling, -and smiling at the same time. Her eyes were turning bright.
"During our adventure, she was struck with a spell accidentally. Despite this, she was still determined to save her sister. No matter what! We learned of a possible cure to the spell, and I took her back home, not realizing I had but put her in danger. As I walked way, something happened, -something… Stirred inside me. Something I thought I would never feel… As I realized my mistake, I rushed back to her side. Only to find her as she made the ultimate sacrifice. In spite of myself and the danger to her own self, she made her choice. In doing so, she saved her sister, and her kingdom! My life has been a joy ever since!" A few tears leaked out from Annas' eyes. He chanced a glance… They were not the only ones. Elsa gripped him slightly tighter. Kristoff pressed on…
"Over the following years, -being with her… Was the most wonderful, natural thing, -and all I ever wanted. My resolve was solidified when two dragons showed up in my country. To take her to a land far away to be with her sister in a time of need. Being without her was the most horrible thing, and I never want to experience that again!" He took a knee and released her hands. Anna was trembling, tears flowing freely… Kristoff reached behind, and produced a small box from the back of his sash. He held it up, and opened it. He looked her earnestly in the eye… He spoke loudly and clearly.
"Anna Ellesmyre! Princess of Arendelle… Would you do me the honor… Extend me the privilege… Of being my wife?" There was no hesitation. Her bottom lip quivered, she was able to squeak out her answer through a hitch in her breath…
"Yes! Yes I will!" He stood and placed the ring on her finger. They shared a look before she leapt, wrapping her arms around his neck. He set her down and they shared a long, loving kiss. The room erupted in a great cheer. The noise was deafening! Elsa gripped him even tighter. Her body shook.
He looked down. Tears were flowing freely…"Oh Hiccup!" Was all she could say through a heavy sob. He embraced her tightly. She buried her face in his chest and sniffled. She separated after a few moments, then walked up. She and Anna shared a long, tight embrace. He walked up to Kristoff and shook his hand heartily.
"Congratulations Kristoff! May the Gods shower you with blessings! Truly!" He smiled warmly.
"Thank you Hiccup! It's all because of you…" He waved him off.
"Nonsense! This is all you Kristoff! In this moment… All you!" He seemed to ponder for a moment. Another smile bloomed across his face. He nodded. They watched the girls for a moment until Kristoff was whisked away in a shower of well wishes and slaps on the back. The girls separated and shared a laugh. Anna looked his way, and bounded over. She jumped a step away and attacked him in a fierce hug. She was sobbing and laughing, -all at the same time. He hugged her just as fiercely.
"Oh Hiccup! Hiccup!" again, laughing, crying all at once. His own heart swelled for the both of them. He set her down, and cupped her face in his hands.
"Congratulations Anna! -Little sister! May you two have a long, -happy life together!" He tilted her head, and placed a loving kiss on her forehead. He released her, only to have her take his hands in hers. She looked so very pretty… And happy! The light in her eyes… He sent a silent prayer… that it would stay there forever! She sniffled and smiled, then squeezed his hands tightly.
"Oh Hiccup! Thank you! -Thank you for everything!" They shared a fond look. She rose up on her toes and kissed him lovingly on the cheek. She set down and cupped his other cheek. She then turned. She and Elsa clasped arms and shared a look, then turned to where Anna was then engulfed in a swarm of women, vying for a look at the ring, and offering their congratulations.
Elsa watched her go, absently walking backwards to him. As she reached him, her arms coiled around his waist. His arm instinctively came up around her shoulders. She buried her face in his chest, and sobbed and sniffled. They looked at each other. There were tears on her face, -but happy ones! He hugged her to him. They looked over at the now-surrounded youngsters. He huffed, and said mostly to himself…
"Well, there's one more wedding to take care of!"