Chapter Two – Setting Off
For perhaps the first time in her life, Jane was speechless. How should she respond? She didn't want to tell Jester she didn't feel the same, but knew she couldn't lie to him about something so important. If she could just have a little time to think about how to tell him. All she needed was a way to break it to him gently—a way to turn him down without damaging their friendship.
"I need some time…to think about it," she said with a nod.
"Oh, of course. I don't need an answer right away," Jester rushed to assure her.
She smiled, affection for her best human friend stirring up within her. "You are such a great friend, Jester."
His smile didn't disappear, but Jane could see the light in his eyes dimmed down a bit at the word friend. "So, you had a question for me?"
"Oh, right." Anything to get away from the awkward topic at hand, Jane thought. "Have you ever heard of a group of Vikings called The Hairy Hooligan Tribe? I heard the name and thought it sounded familiar."
Jester furrowed his eyebrows in concentration. "Yes, it does. Why do you ask?"
"A Viking from that tribe just arrived. He had a message for the King. Apparently the new chief wants to make a peace treaty with Kippernium."
Jester cracked a smile. "A Viking on a peace mission? Now that would be a good joke."
"But this is serious, Jester. I know there is a history between our two kingdoms. I just don't know what it is."
He gave a shrug. "We could check the library."
"Good idea."
Jane made sure to keep track of the time as they searched through the books. There were thousands of them, but with no way of knowing where to begin, they had to guess. Neither knew exactly where to look for information, so they found little. She was about to forgo her search and wait outside the throne room for the meeting—Jane estimated she had about twenty minutes until it started—when her father walked through the doors.
"Oh, Jane, what are you doing in here?" he asked as he walked over to a stepping stool.
"Jester and I were looking for information. I am sure you have heard of the Viking visitor?"
"Indeed, I have," he said as he climbed up onto a stool to grab a book from one of the higher shelves. "The King has asked me to fetch him some books. What information are you looking for?"
"The visitor says he is from The Hairy Hooligan Tribe." At this her father's hand stalled and his arm rested midway between him and the book he was reaching for. "Does that name sound familiar to you?"
He turned around with a serious expression on his face. "What message did the Viking bring?"
"He says the new chief wants to make a peace treaty with our kingdom."
Jester smiled. "Funny, is it not?"
"This is no laughing matter." Her father said solemnly. "I have not heard that name uttered in a long time, but I remember it clearly. That is the kingdom which attacked Kippernium nearly a century ago and forced the royal family into hiding for forty years."
Jane's eyes widened at the revelation. No wonder it sounded so familiar. She heard about the Wilderness Years and the return of the royal family to power during her knight's training. Of course, there was little mention of the attacking kingdom, as no one liked to mention the name of the enemy, but she had heard it a few times.
"And now they come seeking peace? That does not make any sense," Jester said, bringing Jane out of her thoughts, and she had to agree.
"Let us be glad they come in peace this time," her father said before turning back to his task.
Jane turned to Jester, and saw the worried look on his face. She knew they were thinking the same thing: why were they seeking to make a peace treaty after all these years? Many years had passed since the Wilderness Years, but the wound was still there—raw and tender. Why risk trying to make peace with a kingdom they had attacked in the past? Unless they were hiding something. She knew the King must be thinking something similar, for he rarely called for a counsel to give him advice. He was a capable ruler and made wise decisions, but this was a complicated matter.
"Thank you for your help, Jester, but I must go now. The King has called for a counsel and the meeting will begin soon."
"Of course."
He gave her a smile, and Jane felt herself return it. Would it really be so bad for Jester to court her? She may not be in love with him, but she held a love for him that was unique. Many women her age entered into arranged marriages without even knowing their husband, and ended up with a lifelong partner they did not love—not even in the friendship sense. At least she and Jester were a good team, and held a strong bond of friendship. She could see them spending many happy years together, but could she enter into marriage when she could not give him her heart completely? Would it not be wrong to marry him when she could not love him the way he loved her? And she knew that's what it would quickly lead to if she accepted his proposal of courtship—marriage.
Before she could let her emotions get the better of her she turned and walked away, not stopping until she reached the hall outside the throne room. She found Gunther standing there, waiting as well. He looked up and met her gaze, but for once he did not have any sharp remarks or insults for her.
Soon Sir Theodore and Sir Ivon arrived and they walked over to the tables in front of the King's throne. King Caradoc sat at the head of the table, with Queen Gwendolyn to his left, and Prince Cuthbert on his right hand side. Jane sat down next to the Queen, with Gunther on her other side, and the two elder knights took seats across from them.
"I assume most of you in this room know the history between our kingdom and the Hairy Hooligan Tribe, but what about the younger generation?"
"I have taught my squires in their history lessons," Sir Theodore said, giving a nod towards Gunther and Jane.
"Very good."
"What history, father?" Cuthbert asked.
"Would one of you two younger ones like to tell him the story?" King Caradoc asked. Jane took one look at Gunther—whose eyes had grown wide and face had paled just the slightest shade—and knew he didn't know the story. It didn't surprise her all that much. Gunther excelled at combat, where he had to use his muscles, but when it came to books and reading, he was lost.
"The Hairy Hooligan Tribe was the kingdom that attacked Kippernium nearly a century ago. They were the ones who forced the royal family into hiding, which lasted for forty years."
"Well said, Jane," the King commended her, and she felt a sense of pride over the fact that she had impressed him. King Caradoc turned and gestured towards a tapestry hanging on the wall. It showed a picture of the castle, village, and fields all around it. Red and orange flames engulfed much of the castle and village, with black smoke billowed up into the clouds. Below, in the water of the port, was a Viking longship.
"My father had this made to mark the battle that ended the Wilderness Years for my family, and as a way to remember the victory over our enemies." He turned back to face his counsel. "Enemies that might soon become allies."
The King was silent for a moment, leaning forward and resting his elbows on the table, fingers forming a steeple that tapped against his chin. "I have called this meeting to discuss the options. Of course I want peace, and an alliance could prove beneficial. The Vikings are known for their savagery and a treaty with them may ward off attacks from other kingdoms."
Jane hadn't thought about that, but now realized it. Their kingdom was prosperous, but small, which put them in a very precarious situation. There remained but only four knights in the kingdom. Many years before—when Jane was still young—Sir Theodore had been forced to release all of Kippernium's knights from service, since the royal treasury was in debt and the King did not have enough money to pay their retirement fees. After being released from their duty, they all left, with only Sir Theodore and Sir Ivon remaining because of their loyalty to the King. That event left them at risk, because in the event of an attack there would only the four knights, villagers with pitchforks, and a dragon to defend the castle—and the dragon was what kept most greedy kingdoms away…but only for the moment. How long before they overcame their fear and readied for battle? However, no one would dare attack if the Vikings were on their side.
"But it is because of their reputation that I am leery of their motives. Why, after so many years, do they choose to come to us offering peace? It may be that new chief is a peacekeeper, but I am not sure I can trust him." He drummed the tips of his fingers together, and then turned to Sir Theodore. "What is your advice?"
"Your Majesty, it has been my experience that when a kingdom proposes a peace treaty with another kingdom they have recently been to war with, there can only be two reasons: they are trying to create a false sense of security and trying to get information so they can plan an attack, or they are in desperate need of resources and they believe if they make an alliance, the other kingdom can provide them with that."
The King gave a nod, as if that was what he was thinking. "Yes, I quite agree. The only question is, which one is the right assumption?"
"I believe we should further investigate, but I must advise against inviting their chief to Kippernium, and I also strongly advise against you traveling to Berk to seek out the answer. The risks are too great in either case."
"What do you suggest then?"
"I suggest we send two of our own envoys to Berk, under the guise of discussing the details of the peace treaty, to assess the situation there. It would also be a good opportunity to make out the true character of this Chief Hiccup—see if the messenger is telling the truth."
"What is your opinion on the matter, Sir Ivon?" the King asked.
"I agree with Sir Theodore, Your Majesty."
"Good, then we are all in agreement," the King said, and for the first time since the meeting began, he gave a small smile. "We shall make preparations at once."
"Sir Ivon and I will begin packing at once, Your Majesty," Sir Theodore said, but the King held up a hand.
"I admire your eagerness, but I was referring to Sir Gunther and Squire Jane."
Sir Theodore's eyebrows lifted slightly. "With all due respect, Your Majesty, both Gunther and Jane are young and inexperienced in such matters. Jane has yet to achieve Knighthood and I believe sending someone who has experience in the field would be the best option."
"Normally I would agree, but this letter I received states that the new Chief is young—only twenty years old." King Caradoc pulled out the paper and slid it forward onto the table. "Sir Gunther is twenty-two, and Jane is the same age as the Chief. I believe the young man would be able to connect and reveal more of his true character to his peers, rather than to someone who he would consider an elder." He turned his eyes to Jane and Gunther. "I expect you to be packed and ready to leave early tomorrow morning."
"Yes, Your Majesty," Gunther immediately piped up, and Jane echoed his statement.
"Now there is only the question of Dragon. I would feel better if he accompanied you, but I know the Viking ancestors were the fiercest and most skilled dragon slayers. They have special blades that are able to pierce dragon skin, am I correct?" The King turned his gaze to Sir Ivon.
"Yes, I have checked over the stranger's weapons and he has a blade much like squire Jane's."
"I do not want to risk Dragon's life, and I do not want to provoke an attack that I am sure would come if they found out we house a dragon within our castle walls, but I do not want my knight's to be defenseless against an attack from their tribe."
"May I suggest that Dragon follow at a distance, in case the need should arise?" Sir Theordore suggested. "Jane's sword can summon him."
"Yes, quite a good idea. And when you land, I want you to make sure Dragon stays far enough away that he will not be seen by the Viking tribe. If your report should be favorable and the treaty move forward, we will find a way to tell them about our…special resident," King Caradoc said, giving a wave of his hand. "Jane, you shall inform Dragon at once."
"Yes, your Majesty," she said obediently.
"And one last thing, I want you two to take note of any valuables this tribe may have to trade. This alliance may prove beneficial to our kingdom in more ways that just security." Jane and Gunther gave a nod. "Good. This meeting is dismissed."
With the last word he stood and offered a hand to his wife. King Caradoc motioned for his son to follow as they walked away, officially ending the meeting. The four remaining people sat in silence, while Jane tried to read Sir Theodore's expression. She could tell by the way his jaw clenched that he didn't agree with King Caradoc's plan to send her and Gunther, but he wouldn't dare question him. After all, he had sworn an oath to him and vowed to obey his commands, even ones he didn't quite understand.
"You have your orders," Sir Thoeodore finally said. He stood and turned to the two youngest members seated at the table. "You are to return to your quarters and begin packing immediately. Jane, after that you will inform Dragon of his orders."
"Yes, Sir," they both said, standing up. Jane went immediately back to her room and pulled out a large leather satchel from under her bed. She thought about what she would need while on the mission, and tried to include all the necessities. She would need heavier clothing, since the Vikings lived far up in the north, where it was bound to be cold. Once she had packed extra clothes she unbuckled the leather strap holding her sword around her waist. She ran a calloused thumb over the runes, thinking about what Sir Theodore had said.
If Vikings were once the greatest dragon hunters to ever live, they would recognize it as the sword of a dragon slayer. That might be useful in gaining their trust, and it would also be helpful in summoning Dragon if things went sour while on the mission…but what if the treaty went through? If an alliance was established and trading began between the two kingdoms the Vikings would find out about Dragon. Was King Caradoc right—could there be a way to break it to them as gently as possible? What would they do once they learned the King kept a large dragon in the castle, like he was some sort of pet? Would they try and slay Dragon?
Jane put the sword down on her bed. She couldn't question the king's orders, but she didn't like the idea of letting Dragon follow behind and staying hidden unless called for. Sure, the large lizard might think he was fully capable of handling any 'short life' but these Vikings were skilled dragon slayers, and who knows what they might be able to do to him if they found out about his presence?
"So, what did stump foot want?"
Jane nearly jumped out of her skin at the voice, but recognized it instantly. She spun around and placed both hands on her hips. "Haven't you heard it's rude to sneak up on people?"
"Well, someone is certainly jumpy today," Dragon commented. "So what did he want?"
Jane let out a sigh and sat down on her bed, while Dragon poked his head through the window. "He was delivering a message from the Chief of the Hairy Hooligan Tribe."
At that name Dragon let out a laugh. "Hairy Hooligan Tribe? Ha, you short lives are hilarious with these names you come up with!"
"Dragon, this is serious business. The new chief wants to make an alliance with our kingdom, but the King is not sure about his motives, since that same tribe is the one who forced the royal family into the Wilderness Years nearly a century ago. So he is sending me and Gunther to find out what this is all about."
"Ah, so that is why you are packing. Well, I'm ready to leave when you are."
"Dragon, you cannot fly me there. We need you to follow at a distance and make sure no one sees you. Once we reach Berk you must stay to the outskirts and only come if I summon you."
Dragon looked insulted by Jane's words. "Why?"
Jane had been wishing he wouldn't ask that, because she knew she could never lie to him. "The Vikings ancestors were known as the fiercest dragon slayers, and since dragons are thought to be extinct, who knows what seeing one might make them do. I just want you to stay safe."
"Oh, so you think I can't handle myself against a bunch of hairy little short lives? Is that how little you think of me? I'll have you know I could roast their entire village in a single breath…" Dragon raised a hand and tapped a large claw against his chin. "Provided it is not as big as this kingdom."
Jane laughed. "Of course, you big lizard, but since this alliance could ensure a lasting peace, we do not want to do anything that might provoke an attack. Do you understand?"
"No." Jane frowned at him. "But since it seems important to you, I will promise not to interfere…but just say the word, Jane, and I will rain fire down upon them."
Jane moved forward and gave him a hug. "Of course. Now please leave, I must finish my packing."
The next morning Jane rose bright and early, grabbing her satchel and heading for the throne room. Sir Theodore, Sir Ivon, and Sir Gunther all stood there, with the latter holding a satchel of his own.
A few minutes later they were all called into the Throne Room and stood in attendance as King Caradoc gave his reply to Gobber. "I am willing to make an alliance, but I would like to send two envoys to Berk instead of inviting your Chief here. Of course, once my two envoys have discussed the details of the treaty and brought back a document outlining it, I will invite the Chief here to further discuss the possible alliance." King Caradoc motioned for Sir Theodore to approach the throne and handed him a scroll bearing the wax seal of the King. "This letter is to be delivered to your Chief, and my two envoys are packed and ready to leave immediately."
Gobber looked slightly surprised, and even a little bit fearful at his words. "Your Majesty, I think it might be better if Hiccup had some time to prepare Berk to receive your envoys. Maybe a week or two? I mean, you should see Berk, there's ice everywhere and the houses are dusty…haven't even started on spring cleaning yet—"
King Caradoc held up a hand, silencing him. "I have stated my terms. You will escort my envoys to Berk."
Gobber let out a sigh. "As you wish, Your Majesty."
The horses were already saddled and brought out to the courtyard, with their saddlebags secured down. Smithy gave Jane an encouraging nod as he handed the reins to her. "Be careful, Jane."
She smiled back at him, placing a hand on his arm. "You know me, I always am."
Pepper was already waiting, and took a step forward to hug Jane. When she pulled away a few moments later, Jane gave a smile and nod to Pepper's two children, who stood beside their father, Rake.
"Good luck, Jane," Rake called out, and Jane gave a smile.
"Thank you, Rake."
Suddenly a blue flash caught her eyes, and she turned to see Jester running towards her, waving a hand. When he caught up to her, he was panting. "I wanted to make it before you left, to wish you good luck and a safe journey."
Jane stepped forward and gave him a hug, which he eagerly returned. "I will miss you while I'm gone," she whispered low enough for only him to hear. "And I promise I will think long and hard about your offer while I am away."
When she pulled away he gave a slight chuckle. "No, you won't. Your mind will be on the mission—right where it should be. There will be time for decisions later, after you have returned safe."
"Look at the gentle lady, come to wish her knight a safe journey," Gunther mocked them.
"At least I have someone to come and wish me a safe journey," she rebuffed, and the grin immediately slid off his safe. He sneered at them before digging his heels into the horse's side, trotting off to wait by the gate for their little entourage to leave.
She turned back to Jester in time to see Lavinia rushing over to them, with her mother hurrying behind the fourteen-year-old princess, reminding her that ladies did not run. Her skirts whipped around her ankles, and she came to a sudden stop in front of Jane, eyes shining with delight and excitement.
"Oh, Jane, father told me the news! I cannot wait until you get back so I can hear all about your adventures!" she gushed, clasping both hands together.
Jane smiled at the young princess fondly. "Yes, you shall hear of them as soon as I return."
Lavinia clapped at that. "Have fun, Jane!"
Jane laughed, thinking how funny it was that everyone should be so somber and serious about her departure, while the princess was practically bouncing with joy at the thought of adventure and excitement.
"Godspeed, Jane," her mother said calmly, but Jane could see the concern and worry in her eyes. She gave a nod to her mother.
"Thank you."
She turned and mounted her horse—the last one to set off for the gate, where the other two waited for her. With one last wave to her friends and family, she set off.
The next chapter will have the big reveal. I know this seems like a bunch of filler, but it was necessary to set up the plot, and hopefully not too boring. :)
All information and background about the Kingdom of Kippernium is taken from the Jane And The Dragon Timeline. If you want it for reference, you can find it by Googling "Jane And The Dragon Timeline", and clicking on the first link.
Thanks to everyone who followed, favorited, and reviewed! Your encouragement means a lot, and I hope you all enjoyed this chapter! :)