So it's been awhile since I posted anything, but I hope this makes up for that. We're slowly progressing into the actual plot, so you only have to be patient for a little while longer! For all those who are actually dropping comments, kudos, favorites, follows, and bookmarks, thank you so much! I'm very much aware that this won't be a popular fic. but I'm totally okay with that. I just hope that the people who are actually taking a chance on this story like it. I'm just going to be switching on and off between Astrid and our mystery Night Fury every chapter like I've been doing so, and I'll notify you beforehand if that changes. Also, I forgot to mention before but…
:::Dragon dreams and/or flashbacks:::
::Dragon speech::
:Dragon thoughts:
You've probably already figured that out by now, but I wanted to mention it anyway. Also, in the last chapter's author note I said that Heather wouldn't be showing up until much later in the story - and while that still might be true - I've been thinking over the plotline of this fic. and I've changed a few things, so she might be appearing sooner than you think. One last thing, my username is ClexaWarrior2018 but in AO3 I have a second psued where my account name is DragonRaider1997 (my previous username on Fanfiction) so if the summary below says Created by DragonRaider1997 don't freak out. With that being said, let's get to it!
Of tradition and of history, of instinct and of fear. Of devotion and of friendship, when two species come near. And when scales of ebony night, brush against flesh of smooth white - when slits of amethyst ire, lock with eyes of blazing sapphire: truths will be revealed, and secrets will be kept - as four drown in fire, but only two surface. Notch your arrows, and let them fly. Our strong Valkyrie...is this goodbye?
HTTYD: Blind Trust & Twisted Love
Book One: The Things We Lost In The Fire
Chapter Three: Inner Conflicts
Created By
DragonRaider1997
" And with one twist - he took my hand and swallowed it whole! " Gobber exaggerates dramatically, waving his roasted chicken around in the air as his remaining hand swings around, forcing me to duck my head so that he doesn't accidentally decapitate me. He doesn't turn to apologize, and I don't ask him to. We're both so focused on something else that neither of us can even spare the time to care very much.
" And I saw the look on his face - I was delicious. He must've passed the word, because it wasn't a month later before another one of them took my leg. " Just for the sake of pretending that I'm actually listening, I spare a glance at Gobber's wooden pegleg, forcing my eyes to shine with interest even though I have no idea what he's talking about. I look away, staring back into the flames before me.
They flicker and dance dangerously, licking at the air as the logs of wood being consumed crackle and pop shrilly. The flames remind me of a different kind of fire though...a blazing, bright, pulsing liquid fire of dark and light purple that I've only ever seen burn in a pair of amethyst irises. My veins grow cold at the thought of those pair of eyes staring back at me through the flickering of the bonfire, but I don't shiver.
Instead, I lean sideways as Fishlegs almost knocks into me with the chicken leg that he's waving in the air as he talks in the same fashion as our Dragon Training Instructor. I throw him a frosty glare, but look away a moment later, not bothered enough to chew him out about it. I do catch the last words of his sentence though. " - you could've killed the dragon from the inside by...crushing it's heart, or something. "
A beat of silence.
As I turn away from the husky blonde with a slight roll of my eyes, I notice that I'm not the only one who'd given him an odd look. " I swear I'm so angry right now. I'll avenge your beautiful hand and your beautiful foot. I'll chop off the legs of every dragon I fight - with my face. " I don't even bother scowling at Snotlout's words, to use to his natural arrogance to even attempt to make him understand the sheer impossibility of his promise.
Gobber's reply though, are words that I actually pay attention to. " Nh uh uh - it's the wings and tails you really want. If it can't fly, it can't get away - a downed dragon, is a dead dragon. " Murmurs of excitement and understanding follow his sentence, making me stifle a sigh as I can practically see the gears turning in each and every one of the other teens' heads. Suddenly, Gobber stands up, yawning widely as he scratches his belly.
" Alright, I'm off to bed - and you should be too. Tomorrow we get to the big boys, slowly but surely working our way up to the Monstrous Nightmare - but who'll win the honor of killing it? " Tuffnut sets down his food next to the bonfire - probably not the best idea in of itself - and winks at me as he states confidently, " It's gonna be me - it's my destiny, see? " Next to me, Fishlegs gasps loudly. " Your mom let you get a tattoo? "
Uninterested pools of azure flicker to the side, widening in surprise when they land on an empty seat. Where's Hiccup? I don't even have a chance to process the thought before my body is moving, silently laying my chicken down and stepping around Gobber as I near the watch tower's staircase. As I wind the corner, I almost miss the blur of auburn hair that reaches the foot of the steps before disappearing into the darkness of Berk.
For a second I narrow my eyes in curiosity, wondering where in Thor's name he's off to at this hour. Then again, he's Hiccup - no one knows what he's up to half of the time. The thought makes me shake my head in exasperation as I turn around, making my way back to my seat as I pick up my chicken and barely acknowledge Tuffnut's words. " Yes it was! You've just never seen me from the left side until now. "
As Gobber spots me walking back inside the watch tower he turns around, letting out a frustrated sigh when he finally notices that Hiccup isn't in his seat anymore. The Dragon Training Instructor throws his gaze onto me, cocking an eyebrow in quiet questioning as I rip off a small piece of meat and nibble on it. Do you know where he went? I stare right back at him, shaking my head in a silent answering. No clue.
The older viking grunts in disdain, but shakes his head a second later, going back to focusing on his students who'd actually bothered to stay for the whole lecture. I share Gobber's annoyance, but a small part of me can't help but envy Hiccup in this moment. He can just slip away unnoticed whenever he wants without worry of being found, but me? - I can't do that. I have to stay for the lectures, go to the class gatherings, and participate one hundred percent in training.
I can't get even one second of relaxation, whereas Stoick's son can't get enough of it. I shake my head, blinking harshly as I force the thought away. He can sneak away whenever he likes because he doesn't have a reputation on the line, but I'm actually doing this for something - I have a reason. And I won't rest until the Hofferson name has earned back its title of fearless. It's as if the thought itself roots my feet to the ground, making me feel solid again.
Suddenly, my blood starts running faster, pumping with adrenaline and ready for anything. I'm snapped out of my silent stupor as the other teens around me start shuffling and standing up, grabbing their leftover food as they follow Gobber down the watch tower's staircase. I follow more slowly, taking my time in picking away the meet on my chicken before I throw the bones and stick into the dying flames in front of me one by one.
When I'm finally done, the others are gone, and the fire is completely dead. I look up, gazing at the night sky as a thousand twinkling stars stare back at me. I tilt my head and squint my eyes, trying to see if I can catch a glimpse of anything beyond the darkness - beyond the boundaries of even Valhalla. But there's nothing. A cold breeze whips past me, stinging my lungs as I take in a deep breath. An involuntary shudder grips my spine, making me pull my legs close to my chest.
I don't know why I don't just get up and walk back to my hut, but I stay - still and unmoving - even as the air around me grows colder by the second. Without thinking, I start rubbing my thumbs in small circles over the skin of my arms, as if the tiny movements will somehow make me warmer. They don't, and even though I fight it, the chilly air and now stagnant scent of ash and burnt meat hanging in the breeze lulls me away into a fitful sleep.
I don't look back.
I can't.
Because I know that if I do, she'll catch me.
The dragon.
I can't focus on the thought of her though, so instead I run. I run through the canopy and around the trees, over trunks and fallen logs, and across a small stream with towering rocks. I run and run and run and don't look back as I do - not even once. There's no wind or breeze flitting throughout the forest, making each crunching of my footfalls and the rustling of the leaves I brush against as I rush pass them all that more louder.
Images and thoughts fill my head, every single one of them of the dragon.
Without warning, the world around me swirls and shifts, making me jerk backwards uncomfortably. Suddenly, my palms are pressed against harsh wood as dust and ash surrounds me, making me choke as I breathe in. I try blinking, embers and hot air crusting at my eyelids as I wince, black filling my vision. Glacier blue irises attempt to look around once more, turning into chips of sharded ice as soon as they land on the creature standing not five feet away.
She's beautiful: with a body of pure muscle and strength, claws and spines as sharp as any blade, and with jagged amethyst markings proudly riddling her ebony death scales. Without my consent, a knot starts violently constricting in my stomach, making my throat clench as I dig my fingernails into the grooves of the wall behind me. The ebony beast cocks its head to the side, the line of knob-ish flaps lining its jaw quivering in curiosity.
Its amaranthine eyes narrow slightly as the female dragon takes a cautious step forward, its back arched in warning as it cranes its neck to get a better view of me. I narrow my own irises in questioning. Did its pupils just get...rounder? The thought vanishes as soon as the creature huffs, hot air brushing against my face as a bead of sweat trails down the back of my neck. In a split second, the air around me grows impossibly thicker, making it hard for me to breathe.
For the first time, I notice the grotesque aroma of sweat drafting in from around all directions, a musky hint of ash and blood clotting my nostrils, finding solace in the back of my throat and at the roof of my mouth. I watch as the dragon's ear flaps prick at the sound of crackling wood and the bursting of beams snapping at the hinges. I strain my own ears, just barely managing to make out faint viking battle cries and savage roars that seem to grow louder and louder by the second.
Even with the dragon raid raging on just outside my hut though, my complete focus is on the violaceous eyed creature in front of me. It definitely isn't a hatchling, but it doesn't look like a full grown adult either - with wings too small and a body too lean. My eyes flit to the spear head like spines littering its back, the light of invisible flames glittering off the ebony bones. I take in a deep breath, trying to calm my racing heart.
I can feel the adrenaline pumping through my veins along with the pounding of blood thrumming against my eardrums, the rhythmic throbbing reaching all the way down to my fingertips. The dragon starts moving forward, before pausing, and instead settles for letting out a low chur. It lets the flap outlining the back of its neck flare outwards in a questioning fashion, as if it'd noticed my change of attitude.
For the first time since I'd been running away from the dragon in the forest, I allow myself to relax slightly - exchanging my caution for barely restrained wonderment as I cock my head to the side. Much to my surprise, the mauve stained creature tilts her head too, mimicking me as it tucks its wings tighter against its sides. It doesn't look like it's going to attack me. It just looks...curious. I shake my head, confused beyond belief.
Every instinct is raging at me to attack, to take action, but how can I? My hands weigh heavy with the absence of any weapon, and I'm cornered with no means of escape. I huff, watching as the dragon's ear flaps perk up at the sound, before slowly lowering to rest against the back of its skull. Without warning, the dragon suddenly darts forward, and I move with instinct. I roll away, a loud snapping of wood and the roaring of flames echoing me.
Before I move anymore though, a weight suddenly crashes down on me, knocking the breath out of my lungs as the back of my head thwacks violently against the floor. For a second time the world spins, except now there are stars dancing around in my vision too. " For Thor's sake! " I spit, forcing my vision to clear as I try to push myself up. I yelp when a massive muzzle suddenly pushes against my face, a gust of hot air brushing my bangs backwards.
I look up, my blood running cold as a dark pair of lilac irises stare back at me. Out of the corner of my eye, I'm faintly aware of the fact that the wooden walls of the hut have disappeared, and have instead been replaced by thick, jagged slabs of bloodstained stone with a boundless fencing of rusted chains and poles acting as a roof. It takes a split second for me to process my new surroundings, but when I do, I can feel my heart plummeting.
I'm in the Kill Ring.
The monster on top of me snarls, its claws unsheathing as the tips pierce my skin and poke ragged holes into my tunic. I hiss in pain, adrenaline pumping through my veins and kicking me into action as I slam my elbow against the ebony dragon's snout. It roars in fury, purple eyes blazing with a fierce hate as I roll away and swiftly jump up, my blue irises darting around the arena in hopes of finding a weapon.
I almost scowl when I realize that there are none.
I don't have any time to curse the gods though, because not a second later the female dragon leaps for me again, its ear flaps pinned against the back of its head as its neck flap flares outwards, making her seem bigger. I duck under the winged creature, trying to evade its quick movements, but it's back on me in a flash. A burst of hot white pain grips my arm, making me scream out as warm blood splatters across my face and drips down my body.
The loud snap of a bone breaking deafens me, and in a blind state I reach forward, successfully piercing the dragon's eye with my fingers. It screeches with pain, letting go of my arm before it whips its tail out and smacks me with it. I go tumbling down, heart racing and breaths ragged as my knees crash against the stone floor and my palms are sliced open by the loose rocks scattered across the ground.
I reach for one with numb fingers, turning around to throw it at the beast, before I'm knocked down once more. A sense of dread digs its way into my heart, but I struggle anyway, trying to stab the creature's thick hide with the stones in my hand. She just slashes at my palms though, tearing flesh and skin apart as I grit my teeth and silently howl at the pain. I try to open my eyes, blood and barely suppressed tears making my vision blotchy.
I can't see anything, but I can hear the ebony dragon snarl.
It's the last thing that reaches my ears before I feel sharp fangs tear at my throat.
I startle awake, gasping and shaking, my whole body wracked with sweat as I fumble blindly and fall off the bench of Berk's watch tower. For a split second, I'm blind, and I scramble to my feet as my body thrums with fear and adrenaline mixed together. In the back of my head, I faintly wonder if this is how the Berserkers feel when they go into a rage. The thought doesn't last long though, as my legs give out from under me and I collapse.
I just barely manage to reach out and grab the bench I'd fallen off of, my knuckles white and my whole body shivering with sweat as I hold onto the wooden structure like a lifeline. Every breath makes my lungs sting painfully, but I force myself to keep breathing. In. Out. In. Out. My heart doesn't stop racing, but the blood pounding against the insides of my skull quiets down somewhat, allowing me to finally grasp a straw of control over myself.
I tilt my head upwards, every muscle and bone protesting at the small movement. Oceanic orbs glow sharply in contrast to the night shadows around them, slowly growing duller as my eyesight adjusts to the dark lighting. The moon and stars hang high in the sky, casting a silvery pelt across Berk, making the still village seem eerily vacant. I close my eyes, trying to catch my breath as my heart rate finally starts slowing down bit by bit.
When I open them again, I'm no longer shivering from the memories of the nightmare, but instead from the freezing breeze that's being carried from the sea onto the island. My arms scream in exhaustion as I haul myself onto my feet, stumbling slightly as I reach out and grip the wooden beams of the watch tower to steady myself. I don't move quickly, but soon enough I'm making my way down the staircase.
As I make my way towards my hut, I can't help but recall the events of my dream - especially the last part. A savage snarl, a roar of fury, then pain - pain, pain, pain and blood - sticky, warm, red blood. Red and red and red - red like the dawn - red everywhere...blood everywhere. Then darkness. Then death. Something like a mix between a strangled gasp and a scream of rage tries to crawl up out of my throat, making me choke as my vision swirls.
I double over, my fingers digging into the gravel and dirt of the village square under me as phantom pain laces across and through my veins, making my neck tingle as if its being licked by the whispers of flames. I run a hand over my throat, trying to force myself to remember that there's no wound there - that it was only a dream. Once I've gathered my bearings again, I finally accomplish making my way towards my hut.
Every movement I make while trying to get to my room is numb and automatic, leaving my thoughts to wander. You're suppose to be a viking. The voice is faint - not really there - but I cringe at the words all the same. I am! I try to defend myself, but my answer is weak, and the response I get makes my insides sting even more. Then why didn't you kill it? I don't know at what point it was that I entered my room, but I suddenly find myself standing beside my bed, clutching the post.
I just stand there - staring at my hands, watching as I dig my fingernails into the grooves of the wood - harder and harder, until a few splinters break off and pierce my flesh. I don't hiss in pain, or even wince, but I pull my hands back to my sides all the same, sitting myself on the edge of my bed as a war rages on inside of my mind. I don't need to be told who the it is that the voice is speaking of, I already know -
The dragon.
I try to scowl at the thought of the beast - try to bring myself to feel the deep hatred and blazing want for revenge that I've always felt whenever the creatures are mentioned - but I can't. Instead, guilt rises up inside of me, along with shame and disgust and strangely enough...fear. The emotions aren't directed at the dragon though. No, instead, I feel them for myself. Guilt: because I lowered my axe when I should've raised it higher.
Shame: because to not spill the blood of my enemy whenever given the chance is a disgrace, and instead of reviving the Hofferson name, all I've done is darken it more. Disgust: because I've killed dragons before, but for some reason, I couldn't bring myself to slay this one. Fear, though? Well, there's many reasons I feel fear - almost too many to wrap my head around - but I feel fear for what would happen if the other villagers ever found out.
They would curse me to Hel and shame me, no doubt, but they wouldn't be surprised. They would probably mutter under their breaths and whisper into each other's ears about how they'd seen it coming - about how it'd been the wicked hand of fate dealt to me that demanded I would follow in the previous Hofferson's footsteps and bring shame upon my family name by betraying the village - by betraying the viking way.
But most of all, I feel fear for the conflict I would be at if I ever saw the ebony dragon again. I wouldn't be able to decide to kill it or not - I would hesitate, like I did before - because I realize now that despite how much I want to prove to myself that I am a true viking! - I also don't want to hurt it. I don't want to hurt her. The thought alone fills my lungs like water, choking me, drowning me - until I can't breathe.
I've never felt this much fear before in my life.
" A dragon is a viking's worst enemy - never forget that. " Gobber's words ring inside of my skull, echoing across the memories of me and the female dragon, chiding me. It'd been one of the first pieces of advice - more like a reminder - he'd given to me and the other Dragon Trainees when we'd first started training. Dragons are suppose to be vicious, savage creatures that rain Hel upon their victims in merciless cold blood - nothing else.
So then why hadn't that damned dragon killed me when she'd had the chance?
And why, why?! - when she hadn't attacked - hadn't I taken the chance to kill her?
I sigh, laying down on my bed as I drape my furs over me. Where I would once feel comfort in the action, I instead feel cornered and anxious, and I immediately throw the furs off of me and onto the waiting ground below. They land with a silent thump, leaving the cold night air from outsides to seep through the cracks in between the wood of the hut and brush against my exposed skin. I grit my teeth, holding back a shiver as I close my eyes and force myself to welcome sleep.
Thankfully, this time, no nightmares come.
It feels like only a second passes before my azure irises snap open once more, bright and glittering as they reflect the sudden sunlight streaming in through my window. Wisps of exhaustion cling to my bones like the aftereffects of ale, but I shake them off, throwing my legs over the side of my bed as I reach under my pillow and grab my axe. My usual morning routine is quick and efficient, and soon enough I'm out the door and heading towards the Great Hall.
The village square is already bustling with viking life, and I have to dodge more than a few people as they wheel carts and barrels of supplies down to the docks. I start make my way up the steps to the Hall, my axe swinging dangerously at my side as the tips of the blade glint like silver blood. The doors to the Hall are already pushed wide open to allow the cool breezes from outside inside, and I walk right passed them.
The sound of low chatter and the banging of cups being set down on the wooden tables harshly makes my eyes flicker from side to side, my senses numbly alert. Usually, it would be louder, but ever since well over half the village left in search of the Dragon's Nest, the noise level on Berk has seemingly died down a notch. I gather my food and look for somewhere to eat. When I notice the other teens sitting at a particular table, I gather myself and head over to them.
The twins take no notice as I near them, and instead Tuffnut throws a devoured chicken leg at his sister for something that she'd said when I was too far away to hear. " Hey! " Ruffnut yells, angry. She latches onto the horns of her brother's helmet, and soon enough the two of them are rolling around on the ground, their food forgotten. I roll my eyes as I set my food down next to where'd they'd been, secretly hoping that Snotlout will be like the two teens and miss my arrival.
Unfortunately, the gods don't grant everyone's wishes.
" Astrid! " The black haired boy yells, surprised, before his expression turns into one of cockiness. " I knew you'd come back to me - not even you can ignore all this…" He gestures to himself as he lifts an arm and kisses his own bicep. " Manliness. " I hide my clenching jaw behind the lip of my mug as I force myself to take a small sip of mead, when I feel like the arrogant teen isn't in immediately danger of tasting my fist, I reply. " Watch me. "
For a split second, he deflates at the shootdown, but then goes back to his usual self a moment later. Tearing a piece of meat off of the chicken leg I was served, I bite into it, and for the first time I notice Fishlegs out of the corner of my eye. Usually, he's the first one I notice, since he's constantly rambling on and on about facts and statistics about dragons that none of us could even begin to understand, but not today.
I narrow my sapphire eyes in confusion, wondering why he's being so quiet. The husky blonde is turned away from the rest of his fellow teens, and is instead gazing at the entrance to the Great Hall with an odd contemplating look on his face. I dart my gaze over to the ajar doors too, just to see what's caught his attention so fiercely, and am greeting by the sight of the Chief's son quietly entering the Hall.
I don't scowl, don't roll my eyes, or turn away - instead, I opt to just watch him. He walks in slowly, cautiously, as if he's waiting for a dragon to leap out and kill him at any moment. I wince at the thought, but shove it away a moment later. The auburn haired boy's gaze darts everywhere as he walks towards the serving table and takes a plate, finding the table tucked away in the farthest corner before he sits down and tucks into his meal.
I blink, something that feels a lot like sympathy stirring deep inside my chest, making my insides twist viciously. " He's not a bad person. " I'm yanked away from my thoughts at the voice, and I turn my head to the side to look at Fishlegs, blinking in surprise at his words. The green eyed blonde looks down at his food, before he casts a cautious glance back up at me. " He's creative, and smart. He makes all kinds of amazing things in the forge. "
For a split second, he looks down at my axe, and then back at me. " It's just that no one ever notices. " I open my mouth to respond, curious and a little bit irked, but before I can speak a loud slam and bang sounds right before a giant force crashes into me. My breath leaves my lungs for a split second, before the memories of countless practice routines and exercise drills kick in. I twist around, digging my hands into the ground in an attempt to grip something.
My nails catch a groove, giving just enough resistance for me to throw my elbow out and catch myself. I roll a few feet away, just to make sure I'm out of danger, before I swiftly stand up. My palm hovers a few inches over the handle of my axe, ready for anything, but falls limp at my sides once more when I realize what'd crashed into me. Berk's only set of twins are twisted and spread all over the bench where I'd just been sitting, their bodies bent in odd angles as Ruffnut groans.
Tuffnut copies his sister's moans of pain as he cups his head in his palms, trying to straighten his helmet and get back onto his feet at the same time. " What happened? " Almost as soon as he speaks, his female counterpart jumps up, wobbling unsteadily as she punches him in the shoulder. " You muttonhead! You knocked us into the bench. " He blinks, casting a glance down at the broken seat as he hums in confusion. " Hmmm, weird. I don't remember that being there before. "
His sister scowls, as do I. Everyone else in the Great Hall only looks over their shoulders to see what the ruckus is all about, before noticing the two of them standing next to the ruined structure. It only takes a second for the dots to connect and for their eyes to shine with annoyed realization, before they look away and go back to their own meals. I do the same, except now I move to the other side of the table, which means I get to sit next to Fishlegs.
I set my food down, staring at the blonde for a second, and then sit down. My eyes continue to burn holes into his back, but if he takes any notice, he doesn't show it. Apparently, our previous conversation is over. I try to shrug it off and go back to my meal, but his words echo inside of my head, forcing me to mull them over. He's not that bad? I frown. Well of course he's not that bad, he's just...Hiccup. That's the excuse for everything.
He's just a Hiccup.
Just a runt.
Just weak.
And nobody cares about the weak ones.
Nobody cares about him.
The thought stings me more than it should, and I outwardly flinch at the harsh words, earning myself an odd look from Snotlout and a concerned one from Fishlegs. I force myself not to look at them, and instead take a big gulp of my drink, my throat stinging as the thick liquid burns like fire as it slides down my gullet. My eyes try to find the lanky teen, but when they land on where I'd last seen him, all that's left is a discarded plate and mug.
For a second, I wonder where he's gone off to this time - for a second, I contemplate tracking him down and following him, but I don't. Instead, I stay where I am: sitting at a table, surrounded by teenagers who I don't even know that well, eating a piece of chicken and occasionally sipping on some mead. I force myself not to think about the auburn haired boy with green eyes for the rest of breakfast, and soon enough, he's off of my mind completely.
After a while, Ruffnut and Tuffnut stop bickering and start eating their food. The peace only lasts so long though, and soon enough they start pretending their chicken leg bones are swords and they begin sparring with one another. I roll my eyes, but continue eating nonetheless. I listen as Fishlegs mutters excitedly under his breath to Snotlout about something, probably dragons, and the black haired boy just replies with an occasional grunt, looking bored.
I'm just about to stack my dishes and leave the Hall when Gobber hobbles passed the open doors, his eyes squinted as he looks around the room. Once his eyes land on us, he gives a sudden cheery " Aha! " and quickly makes his way over to our table. When he spots the tussling twins he mumbles under his breath and then shouts at them. " You two are gonna kill each other before we even get to the dangerous stuff! "
At this, the two freeze, their limbs tangled and Tuffnut's head being shoved back by Ruffnut's invading arm. " Death? " He mumbles out, his eyes gleaming. " Danger ? " Echoes Ruffnut, her grin wicked. They spare each other a glance before they simultaneously reply. " Destruction! " Something that sounds a lot like, " Odin help me. " comes tumbling out of the Dragon Training Instructor's mouth before he turns to look at the rest of us.
" I see you're all done with breakfast. Put away your dishes and then head over to the arena. " Right as Gobber finishes talking, Snotlout jumps up and slams his hands down on the table, making his plate go flying. " Yes! It's about time - I can't keep that Nightmare waiting too long, right babe? " He wiggles his eyebrows at me, flexing his arms as his eyes gleam. I reach around Fishlegs and slam my fist into the Jorgenson boy's shoulder, making him yelp.
The blacksmith ignores all of this and continues on as if he were never interrupted. " Alright, that's enough of that, let's get over to the Kill Ring! And then the fun will really begin. " He gives a wheezy little chuckle before he turns around and hobbes back towards the entrance of the Great Hall, humming something under his breath as his axe prophetic swings at his sides merrily. I cock an eyebrow at his retreating figure.
Sometime's that man worries me.
Internally shrugging it off, I stack my dishes and follow Gobber, barely listening to the ruckus behind me as Snotlout trips over his own two feet in his haste to catch up to me. Ruffnut and Tuffnut rush past me and our Instructor as they shove away at each other, trying to see who can get to the arena faster. I almost wince as Ruffnut shoves her brother forward, leaving the male twin to slip down the steps.
His helmet crashes and clanks against the stone stairs as he lets out various yells of pain, each one earning a loud snicker from his sister, and a bellowing laugh from Snotlout. Once I reach the top of the staircase I peek over the edge, my eyebrows knitting together in a rare show of sympathy as I look down at the injured teen. His limbs are splayed everywhere, with his helmet a few feet away from his head and a boot twisted off of his foot.
He let's out a groan of pain and looks up at us. " I am hurt, I am very much hurt! " At this, he lets his head fall back down against the ground and just continues to lay there. Oceanic irises dart to the side as I catch sight of the village blacksmith rolling his eyes, before he starts down the steps. I follow him, along with the rest of the teens, and once we get to where Tuffnut is, our Instructor reaches down and pulls the male twin back onto his feet in one hefty lift.
" The world's spinning! The world's spinning! " The lanky blonde yells, holding out his hand as if to steady himself. His sister goes up behind him and picks up his helmet, plopping it down on his head with an odd look in her eyes. I tilt my head to the side. Weird, it's almost as if she's acting...affectionate. I blink, surprised. Ruffnut Thorston is many things, but affectionate is not one of them. I mull over the thought for a while before discarding it.
I guess for all their faults and Loki-ish tendencies, the two are still siblings.
Deep down, they probably really do care about each other.
I'm pulled from my thoughts as Tuffnut suddenly pipes up, completely fine, as he curls his hands into excited fists and turns to face his sister. " Oh my Loki, that was awesome! Do it again! " Ruffnut's eyes widen for a split second, before she gives a devilish grin. I almost groan. Way to ruin the moment guys. " Gladly. " The female twin replies, taking him by the horns on his helmet as she starts leading him back up the stairs. " Nuh uh uh. " Gobber grunts, shaking his head.
" If you haven't forgotten - we're going to Dragon Training! " The twins groan in disappointment, but follow him anyway. Gravel crackles and pops under my boots with each step, filling the air around us to mix in with the hustle and bustle of the daily viking life. I watch as two parents lead their children towards the markets, stumbling and grumbling under their breath as the husband and wife share knowing, exhausted glances.
A smile twitches at the corner of my lips as they walk right by me, shouting at their kids. " Hey, slow down would ya? Wait - Ragnor! No! No… hey! - put that sheep down! " The village square is even more full of people, and a few of them give a cheery wave. We stop a few times as Gobber gets distracted with catching up with a few friends, making Snotlout grumble hotly each time, but soon enough we start crossing the bridge that leads to the arena.
The wood squeaks and teeters with each of our steps, making a few planks groan under our combined weight. Fishlegs leans towards me, his eyes scanning the misted waves sloshing around well over a hundred feet below us nervously. " Uh, I'm not so sure it's safe to have all of us on this bridge at the same time. " Gobber looks back at the husky blonde with a cocked eyebrow, but doesn't reply. " How old did you say this bridge was? "
Snotlout rolls his eyes as Ruff and Tuff rush past him, knocking into his shoulders as he curses at them with a waving fist. The blacksmith grabs both twins by the backs of their shirts with his one good hand, and chuckles at the Ingerman boy. " I didn't. " Of course the answer doesn't serve to calm him down any, and if anything, Fishlegs begins to fidget and walk faster, letting out little squeaks of fear every time the bridge sways.
When we reach the Kill Ring, Gobber opens the gate with a grunt and then turns towards us with a scraggly smile. " Alright, as you know, next week we move on to a different dragon! For now though, this is your last day with the Deadly Nadder, and I have a special lesson planned! " As he's speaking, a small figure peeps out from behind him. I blink in surprise, just able to make out a messy head of auburn hair matched with a bright pair of forest green irises.
Apparently, Snotlout spots him too, because not a second later he starts complaining. " Oh great! Useless is back, wonder how bad things'll go this time! " He ends his sentence with a taunting cackle, looking over his shoulder at the others in search for their agreement. The twins don't respond, too immersed in a 'staring contest of death' as they gaze at each other, unblinking, and occasionally try to poke at each other's eyes with the horns of their helmets.
Realizing that the two won't be any help, the Jorgenson boy looks over to Fishlegs. The husky blonde looks reluctant to agree with his fellow male teen, but when Snotlout curls his hand into a fist at his side - an obvious threat - the green eyed blonde has no choice but to nod vigorously. Blue eyes flicker sideways, just barely managing to catch sight of Hiccup as his entire body deflates - the lights in his eyes flickering out - before he swaths over it with his typical sarcasm.
" Oh I don't know - maybe the dragon will eat you. " He rolls his eyes and then mutters the rest under his breath, speaking just quiet enough so that Snotlout can't hear him. " Wouldn't that just be tragic? " I try to hold back a laugh - I really do - but all I manage is to clench my jaw tightly as a quiet huff of amusement escapes me. Out of the corner of my eye, I watch Hiccup as he whips his head to the side, staring at me wide eyes.
Snotlout gives me a confused look, switching his gaze back and forth between me and the young Haddock, before he harrumphs angrily and kicks his cousin in the shins. I ignore them both, and instead turn to look back at Gobber. " Alright, enter the arena, all of ya - that's it. Now, let's begin! " The gate to the Kill Ring closes noisily behind us, and I listen as the blacksmith hobbles along the outer wall of the arena so he can look down at us.
" Alright, today we're gonna play a little game I like to call Hide-And-Seek! " There's a swift pause, before, " What? We're playing a stupid game? " sounds Snotlout's quick complaint. " Shh! " I hiss at him. I've heard stories from older vikings of the Hide-And-Seek game Gobber had made them go through when they were still in training, and judging from the memories of their tales, it's actually not as easy as it sounds.
The Dragon Training Instructor just rolls his eyes and scratches at his metal tooth. " Aaaaaaand let's begin. " Gobber pulls a lever next to him, unbarring the doors to the Deadly Nadder's enclosure as it bursts free. Immediately, it lets out a deafening roar, its head cocking sideways as its wings flare out above its head. I duck down, darting across the arena and towards the weapons rack. I rush by it, picking out a random blue and yellow blazoned shield as I do so.
A hiss sounds from behind me, and I tuck my shield closer to my side with no hesitation, ducking down to roll across the harsh stone floor. Not a second later, the sound of fire bursting and crackling fills my ears, hot air and flames shooting right over my head before licking at the area I'd just been standing at. I grunt as I propel myself upwards at the end of my next roll, quickly hopping to my feet as I dart back and forth on the ball's of my heel, trying to stay in it's blind spot.
The beast cocks its head my way, snapping its beak together menacingly, before suddenly turning on its tail and screeching at Fishlegs. The husky teen screams, gripping his hammer with both his hands as it shakes violently in his grasp. The second the Deadly Nadder moves to take a step forward, the boy throws up his arms in defeat, making a hasty exit from the Kill Ring. I barely spare his retreating figure a glance as the dragon starts looking for a new target.
The creature flaps its wings, spewing fire at the twins. They both yelp, before grinning and trying to see who can get closest to the dragon without getting killed. I almost don't care enough to scowl at their actions. Almost. Without thinking, I tighten my grip on the smooth and worn handle of my axe, beating the head of it against the metal rimming of my shield. The force reverberates throughout the steel casing, making my palms tingle, but the effect is worth it.
With a startled squawk and a grimacing jerk of its head, the Deadly Nadder starts thrusting its head around, its tail lashing out behind it like an agitated eel. The others start copying me, banging their own weapons against anything around them that's metal. I almost feel a sense of accomplishment, before Gobber ruins my mood. " No no no! You're doing it all wrong. It's called Hide-And-Seek - you hide, " He chuckles cheekily. " the dragon seeks. "
More like tries to hunt us down and maul us to death. I force the thought away, begrudgingly pulling my axe away from my shield to halt the banging. Ruffnut and Tuffnut do the same without thought, suddenly bickering with each other under their breaths, probably about something stupid again. Snotlout though, refuses to listen. " No way! I am not giving that thing a chance to mess up all this. " He strikes a quick pose while flexing his arms.
Next to me, I can hear Hiccup groan and mutter something under his breath nastily. I blink, slightly startled. I have to admit, I'd almost forgotten he was even here. As if knowing that I'm looking at him, the copper tressed boy turns to look my way, his freckled cheeks dusting a bashful pink when his forest green orbs lock with mine. Some part of me wants to roll my eyes at him, and I do, but without the malice the action would've held if it had been directed at his cousin.
" Where are they suppose to hide though? " A voice pipes up next to Gobber, and I briefly lock gazes with Fishlegs. He's standing next to the Dragon Training Instructor, his hands folded together in front of his face anxiously. The blacksmith looks slightly bored at everything happening before him, but then perks up at the boy's question. " That's just it! " He yells gleefully, grabbing all of our attention. He gives a toothy grin. " You can't! "
" Can't what?! " Snotlout shouts hotly, still banging his hammer against his shield's edge, yet there's a hint of fear in his tone. I notice that it's because the Deadly Nadder is slowly but surely recovering from its previous unbalancement, Snotlout's banging not enough to do anything more than annoy it. When Gobber doesn't give him an immediate answer, he starts slamming the two objects together harder and faster, lines of nervousness splitting across his face.
Gobber snorts, before answering. " Hide. You didn't actually think I'd be teaching you how to hide did ya? " He laughed. " You're job is to avoid the dragon. You can't attack it, even if it attacks you. Last one standing wins. " That's it, that's all the explanation he gives, and now we're on our own. Snotlout lets out a disbelieving cry, but stops banging his hammer against his shield nonetheless, finally realizing that it wasn't doing much good anyway.
Shaking its head one more time, the Nadder gives a deafening squawk, its nostrils flaring as its wings ruffle at its sides menacingly. I grit my teeth, crouching down low as I ready myself for anything. The beast cocks its head: right, left, right, before lurching forward and heading for the twins. Ruffnut and Tuffnut don't notice, too busy grinding their helmets against one another's to notice the giant dragon heading their way.
" Ruff, Tuff - move! " I yell, darting behind the dragon's lashing tail to get close enough to the two so that they can hear me. They do. Almost in sync, they let out a befuddled, "Huh?" before they both turn to finally look at the Deadly Nadder heading their way. They give a weird mix between a holler and a whoop, before splitting off. For a second, their horns tangle together, locking them in place. I hold my breath in slight fear, before releasing it when the horns slip free.
Tuffnut makes a run towards the left of the Kill Ring, circling around the dragon and ducking under its wing in the process. He lets out a crazy laugh as the Nadder's razor tipped claw attached to the point of its wing just barely grazes the top of his helmet, leaving a scratch mark streaking through the top two crooked horns. Ruffnut darts towards the right side of the arena, running around the Nadder closer than what could be considered safe.
Then again, we're vikings.
Safe isn't really in our vocabulary.
" Get out of the way you muttonheads! " Snotlout yells hotly, standing as far away from the fighting as possible for all his bravado. I ignore them all, instead focusing on keeping out of the dragon's line of sight. There're two ways to do that: either stay behind it or stay in its blind spot, both having their equal upsides and downsides. Staying behind it is safer, but you have to move faster than the creature. Plus, when dealing with a Nadder, you really have to watch the tail.
On the other hand, sticking to its blind spot doesn't require as much movement - just jumping back and forth in front of its face. The only downside is that it can decide to blast fire at any time, and when it comes to that you either get lucky or you get dead. I stick with the first option. The beast roars in agitation, jerking its head up and down as it tries to get a full view of the arena. I duck down low, making sure to move opposite of its tail.
The spines littering the limb are erect and protruding, sticking out so far that their roots are slightly visible. They twitch and prickle ever so often, the tips gleaming and almost as sharp as the slits the Deadly Nadder keeps glaring at the other teens with. Finally becoming annoyed with the lack of action, the dragon slams one paw down against the rough ground of the Kill Ring, charging at Snotlout not a second later.
The young Jorgenson lets out a terrified yelp, trying to duck away to avoid getting hit by the beast. He moves not a second too late, just managing to miss getting speared by the handful of spines the dragon shoots his way. Instead, they imbed deep into the stone wall, leaving spiderweb fractures in the stone surrounding each punctured area. Snotlout curses loudly before he swings his weapon in the general direction of the creature, running away.
Out of the corner of my eye I notice a flash of color, and I tilt my head sideways, trying to see what's caught my attention while also keeping the Deadly Nadder in my vision. The object is no other than Hiccup, his entire body hidden behind his shield as his eyes barely peek over its steel rimming. As he catches my eye, his forest green irises go wide, before he pops his head over the cover of his shield to give me a halfhearted lopsided grin.
I blink, confused. We're in the Kill Ring, being hunted by a dragon that we can't even fight against, and yet he's sparing valuable seconds to throw a smile my way? I want to punch him, but some part of my annoyance can't help but flare with amusement. Against my better judgement, I shake my head with a slight scowl, before it fixes into a small smile. This time, it's Hiccup turn to blink in surprise.
He stands there, baffled, and I push my attention back onto the Deadly Nadder before the situation can get anymore awkward. The beast trills loudly, cocking its head to the side, before it swivels around to face me. I jump back, cursing my lack of focus. The dragon only seems to growl in victory, the spines adorning the top of its skull quivering and twitching in anticipation. It's found its new source of prey: me.
The creature parts it maw widely, fire leaping from its throat out towards me. "Astrid!" The yell is distant - slightly faint - and I ignore it in favor of dodging the flames. I thrust my shield forward while ducking down, the force of the fire pushing me back. I go with the movement, thrusting myself backwards as I do a quick roll. The Deadly Nadder chases after me, trying to pin me down with its claws.
I dodge its attacks, thrusting out the butt of my axe to slam it against the dragon's soft underbelly. It screeches in pain, jolting backwards as it crouches down and tucks its wings against its sides, trying to hide its stomach. I roll over and push myself to my feet, widening the distance between me and the Deadly Nadder. It watches me with narrowed eyes, its pupils slitted as it whips its tail up and over its head, shooting a single spine my way.
I hide my frame behind my shield while slashing my axe forward, listening as metal clashes with bone. I cringe at the screak the collision emanates, but don't pull my weapon back. The spine splinters and cracks on impact, before bouncing off the blade and shooting off somewhere else in the arena. The Nadder squawks in agitation, miffed at my deflection of its assault. I merely twirl my weapon in my hand, narrowing my eyes at the beast.
It snorts, nostrils flaring, before screeching loudly at something. It twirls around, spewing fire blindly. The creature moves so fast that I almost don't notice the small dagger embedded deep into its left leg. The actual blade is only a couple inches in, but the wound is deep enough to cause slow trickles of blood to start dribbling down the side of its leg. I huff in surprise, eyes darting to look for any of the other teens.
The twins are off to the side, completely sprawled across the floor and too engrossed in a fist fight to notice anything of what's going on around them. Snotlout is...nowhere to be seen, actually. I look around for him for a few seconds, before giving up. Casting my eyes back on the Deadly Nadder, my gaze lands on the only other person in the Kill Ring: Hiccup. My mind takes a moment to process the discovery, before it connects the pieces.
Hiccup's the only person close enough to have struck the dragon.
He's the only one who even carries an hidden dagger in his tunic.
He broke the rules to try and protect me.
Skepticism creeps through me at the last thought, but everything else fits. Hiccup the Useless actually did something. Something inside my stomach curls at the thought, but the corners of my lips tilt upwards in slight pride. Well well well, look who has a backbone after all Snotface. I direct my thought towards Snotlout, remembering every time he'd ever scrutinized and downgraded his cousin as the weak coward everyone thinks he is.
My head's pulled out of the clouds as the Deadly Nadder snaps its beak like maw at Hiccup, causing the boy to yelp and jump out of the way just in the knick of time. " Hiccup! " I look up at the sound of Gobber's voice, carried from just outside the arena where he's clutching at the chains circling the top of the Kill Ring. " Get out of there! " The blacksmith's face turns pale and his eyes fill with a rare concern as his words go unheard.
I whip my gaze back towards the heir of Berk, dread consuming my entire body as I watch him dart and dodge around the dragon. His small size gives him speed, but people call him a klutz for a reason. The moment he takes his next step, he slips on a pebble that catches his boot, releasing a loud yelp before he crashes and falls flat on his back. Hiccup groans, his hand absentmindedly raising to clutch the back of his head.
When he pulls it back, there's crimson liquid coating his palm. The Deadly Nadder perks up at the sight, its nostrils flaring as it takes in the scent of its prey's blood. " Great Odin. " I murmur to myself, eyes slightly wide. The sight of the auburn haired teen in danger sends a shot of panic through me, before my instincts kick in and an idea starts forming itself inside of my head. " Ruff, Tuff, Snot! " I yell out, catching their attention.
I gesture them over with a quick jerk of my shield. They come running. " All right, " I immediately snap out, wasting no time. " We need a plan to get Hiccup out of there before he gets killed. " Snotlout opens his mouth to complain, his eyes already rolling, before a cry of pain cuts him off. We all whip our heads in the direction of Hiccup, hearts dropping when we catch sight of him. He's pinned underneath the Deadly Nadder's paw, the claws surrounding him like a cage.
I narrow my eyes, teeth grit. " Alright scratch that, we don't have time for a plan. You two, " I snap at the twins, locking my calculating orbs with their own gleaming ones. " Go! Do what you do best - piss it off - and keep it occupied long enough for me and Snotlout to grab Hiccup. " They share a wicked grin, nodding at me, before shooting off towards the Deadly Nadder. Watching them go, I can't help but think, Gods I hope I didn't just send them off to their deaths.
The worry is short lived as Ruffnut lets out a holler, waving her arms widely to catch the dragon's attention. The Deadly Nadder jerks to the side at the noise, cocking its head as its wings ruffle and stretch wide at its sides. " Here dragon, dragon, dragon! " Ruffnut yells, snickering. " Get yourself a tasty Ruffnut! " Tuffnut suddenly appears on the beast's other side. " No! " He shouts, posing. " I'm better tasting - a spicier flavor, if you will. "
I groan under my breath, turning towards Snotlout. " As soon as those two lead the Nadder away, we get in there, get Hiccup, and then get out. " He nods, but then shrugs. " Well I mean we could, or we could go back to my place and...you know. " He wiggles his eyebrows at me. I punch him, scowling. " This is serious Snotlout! " He raises one hand in defeat, the other clutching his now bloody nose. " Okay, fine. Geez, we'll save my cousin if it makes you so happy. "
I almost raise my fist to throw another swing, but a shout from both of the twins cuts me off just as I'm raising my arm. " Yes! I can't believe that worked! " I turn around, not totally elighted by what I see. Ruff and Tuff are both running around in circles, weaving and dodging around one another as the Nadder snaps at them, trying to follow their fast movements with darting eyes. Well at least it's not trying to kill Hiccup anymore. I think to myself.
Taking the opportunity, I gesture for Snotlout to follow me before quickly skirting around the back of the dragon, keeping away from its sharp eyesight as I reach for Hiccup. The boy jerks away as I touch his shoulder, his arms drawn up in front of his face with the rest of his body curled into a tight ball. The feeble sight almost makes me pity him, but I push the emotion away. Instead, I grasp his arm and tug him to his feet roughly.
" Come on Hiccup, move! " I yell at him, making his eyes snap open in surprise. For a split second he just stares at me, something about his gaze both curious and cautious. My skin prickles under his scrutiny uncomfortably, making me clench my jaw in agitation. I break the tense atmosphere by tugging on his arm once more, turning around to drag him back to the entrance of the Kill Ring without a word.
" Ack! " Hiccup yells, tripping over his own two feet. I look back over my shoulder. " One in front of the other Haddock. " I muttered, just loud enough for him and no one else to hear me. His cheeks flush a dull pink, eyes staring pointedly at the ground. I almost laugh at the sight, but force myself to focus on getting him to safety. When we reach the barred arena doors Gobber is already there waiting for us, waving us forward with one hand while the other holds open the gate.
" Snotlout, " I call towards the Jorgenson's direction, not bothering to see if he's actually listening to me. " Go with them - I'll stay to round up the twins. " Out of the corner of my eye, I think I see him throwing me an absentminded nod, but I'm already running back into the arena. Someone calls after me, but I don't listen. Ruffnut and Tuffnut are still trying to avoid the dragon, but they're starting to look a little nervous as each attack becomes a closer call than the previous one.
I stop just short of the Deadly Nadder, cupping my hands around my mouth. " Guys, get out of there! We got Hiccup, let's go! " Hearing my words, they both make a desperate run for the gate. I follow a few steps behind them, using myself as a distraction for the dragon so that they can get away. The beast leaps at me, but I dart sideways, slipping underneath its wing as I run for the Kill Ring's entrance.
" Start closing it! " I yell above the Deadly Nadder's furious screeching, pumping my legs faster. Gobber nods, throwing the gate down and leaving just a small enough gap for me to slip through. Hiccup pops out from behind him a second later, his eyes wide and mouth agape. " What? No way! " He yells, turning towards Gobber when he sees that the blacksmith has already lowered the bars. " Gobber! "
The Dragon Training Instructor just shakes his head at his apprentice, shushing him. Six pairs of eyes turn to watch me, mouths pursed and eyes wide. I steel myself, throwing a quick glance over my shoulder. Odin's ghost. I curse to myself when I see that the beast is only a few feet behind me, wings flapping and tail whipping around madly. I run faster. The dragon's hot breath brushes against the back of my neck, making goosebumps rise across my skin.
Just as I reach the others I lean back and throw myself downwards, gritting my teeth as the hard stone floor bites and tears at the skin of my arms. I just bite my lip and slip through the opening, cringing as the bars slam down behind me immediately after. The Nadder squawks in alarm as it collides with the gate, crashing to the ground at the force of the impact. I don't move - only listen as it stands back up and shakes itself off, throwing a final screech our way before walking off.
Hiccup flops down next to me, eyes forward even as he tilts his head in my direction. He speaks but I don't hear his words, for some reason they're...muffled. I give a stiff nod of agreement though, lips pursed tightly. My whole body is shivering and shaking, wracked with adrenaline and fear, even as I try to force myself to keep utterly still. Suddenly, a large hand presses down against my shoulder, grabbing my attention.
I look up, eyes locking with Gobber's own. He says something - probably asking if I'm okay by the way his eyebrows are furrowed in concern - but I can't hear him either. The only sound I can hear is the blood pounding in my ears, thrumming alongside the rapid beating of my heart. I shake his hand away, muttering a low, " I'm fine. " at him before turning around and walking out of the Kill Ring's entrance.
I can only imagine the others sharing dubious glances with one another as they watch my retreating figure. I clench my hands at my sides and force the thought away. I take in a deep breath, focusing on the expanding of my lungs and the sting of my throat as I breathe in the chilly air of Berk. In. Out. In. Out. Come on Hofferson, you're better than this. I scold myself, hating this helpless feeling eating away at the inside of my chest.
I'm snapped out of my stupor as the other teens suddenly surround me, Ruff and Tuff accidently knocking their shoulders against mine. I give them a slight scowl, but ignore them as Hiccup appears at my side. He looks nervous, with his eyes darting from side to side and his hands swingly awkwardly at his sides. I keep silent, waiting for him to say something. Giving me a quick glance, he clears his throat and tilts his head downwards, as if embarrassed.
" Look uh, I just wanted to say...thank you? " I lift an eyebrow. " Was that a statement or a question? " He flushes again, and I blink as, for the first time, I notice how much he blushes when he's around me. Odd. He straightens up slightly, looking me in the eye. " A statement. " I nod at him, turning away to look ahead. Seeing that our conversation is over, he rambles something under his breath about how he's late for something and then runs off.
After that, I distance myself from the others and look out across the ocean. Jagged sea stacks are sprinkled amongst the blue waves, shrouded by mist and fog as vines of moss and leaves marr the sides. Sapphire irises squint, just barely managing to make out a few brown spots in the distance: fishing boats, already hard at work restocking the food storage for the upcoming winter. Almost unconsciously, my gaze is drawn past all that and towards the vacant side of the island.
The forest.
Without my consent, my hand goes to grip the handle of my axe at the sight, making my fingernails dig into the worn leather and leave faint imprints. The action reminds me of the fact that I haven't been out training in a while. It's been six days since my blade last sunk into the rich wood of a tree - six long days, since I last saw that dragon. My footsteps falter at the thought, but I keep walking, making sure to keep my eyes ahead of me this time.
I haven't stepped into the forest every since that day. Every time I do, my mind strays to the memory of the dragon, and the possibility of me seeing it again. It's at that point that I always force myself to turn back - away from the forest - away from that creature. You don't even know if it's still in there, it probably flew away! I chide myself, scowling at the thought. It's true, it probably had flown away - back to its Nest - but I can't be sure.
And the only way I can be, is to go back into the forest and check. My heart starts thumping harder at the thought, forcing me to take in deeper breaths. I can't help the vivid memories of my nightmare that spring forth onto my brain, but I shake my head as if shrugging them away. A Hofferson fears nothing. Besides, it's been far too long since I last practiced, I can't be slacking off if I want to come out on top at Dragon Training.
But do you really?
The little voice buried deep in the back of my head whispers again, resurfacing for the first time since the night I had gathered with the other Dragon Trainees at Berk's watch tower. Of course I do! To win Dragon Training is the only way that I can bring back honor to the Hofferson clan. The thought revolves around me for the rest of the day, solidating me, giving me purpose - until it doesn't matter if some part of me - deep down - doesn't want to hurt the dragon.
Because the next time I see that devil, I will kill it.
And I'll bring back it's heart as poof.