I am so sorry for the slow update, I have been soooooo busy but this is a nice long chapter to make up for the long wait!! Hope you enjoy.
Meg x
Chapter 13: The celebration
Hiccups PoV
"Happy Birthday Prince Hugo, its time to get up"
I slowly open my eyes to the curtains already drawn back and my ceremonial attire on the manakin in front of the window. All of a sudden it hit me like a tone of bricks its my birthday and I'm becoming the crowned Prince TODAY!
"OH MY GOD'S" I suddenly sit up straight and nearly give Ben a heart attack, "I'm 18, it's it's m-my birthday, I've c-come of age, its the ceremony and and b-ball today" I sit really still and stare at the wall in front off me as I have this little freak out.
"Yes you are, yes it is, yes you have and yes its today, don't freak out" Ben says, I think he is trying to be reassuring but he is failing miserably.
"I'mnotfreakingoutareyoufreakingoutbecauseI'mnotfreakingout" I ramble really fast it was almost incoherent.
"Hugo, calm down" Ben places a hand on my shoulder and I tense up down to old habits and because I'M FREAKING OUT! "Hugo you need to calm down and get into the shower and get ready. I will bring you up some breakfast but whilst I'm gone you need to be showered and at 7:30 some other servants will be coming to help you get dressed and ready." Ben says calmly.
"Ben I'm not ready for this" I look up at him and nervously run my hand through my hair and down the back of my neck.
"Hugo you have been ready since day one, you are the best Prince Berk has ever seen and you will do amazing" Ben reassures.
"You really think so?"
"Yes I really think so, even better than your dad, please don't tell him I said that"
"I won't and thanks Ben, I feel a little calmer"
"Good, now get ready!" he points to the shower.
"Okay, okay I'm going" I say as I lazily get out of bed.
Ben leaves the room with a bow and I stumble into the bathroom, I set the shower running and once its ready I get in. I do my usual morning routine once out the shower, I put some boxes on and a bath robe and then head out into my room where Ben is waiting with my breakfast.
"Thanks Ben, I'm not really that hungry though" I say as I sit on my bed and rub the back of my neck agin.
I'm really not sure what I'm going to do, I can't become crowned Prince I'm not good enough and I want to be able to dance with Astrid but if I do she won't know it's me and I promised her. What am I going to do?
"Hugo you need to eat something and stop worrying, everything will be fine"
"I don't think it will Ben, what happens if the ring rejects me and I don't get healed from these horrible scars, for one I'll lose everything and I'll be stuck with these marks that bring back a lot of pain to even look at them"
"Hugo I promise it'll be fine, you will not fail and you won't lose anyone but you need to eat something and if I was you I'd get into the long sleeved shirt you have to wear under that uncomfortable suit so the other servants don't see those scars"
"That's a good idea I'll have my coffee and a slice of toast and then get ready"
"You need more than that, I've brought you a full fry up" I look at Ben and he is trying to be strict shown by the expression on his face.
"Thank you really but I can't eat Ben I'm sorry"
"Okay Prince Hugo but try and get something down you, I'm just going to get things ready and set up for when the other servants come in to help" I take a bite of my toast but I can't get myself to swallow it, eventually it goes down but it just adds fuel to my already sick stomach.
"Ben do you want any help?" I offer after eating half a piece of toast and a big gulp of my coffee.
"No Hugo its fine, thank you for asking but if you aren't going to eat anything else I suggest you get into the under top for your suit" he points to a plain grey long sleeved top hanging by my suit.
"Again you make a good point, I'll go do that now" I grab the under top and walk behind the screen to put the top on.
After I put the under top on I put the bath robe back on and sit down on my bed and turn the TV on, I decided I'd have a look at the news because what else would be on TV on a day like today.
As soon as I switch the TV on the headline read: PRINCE HUGO'S COMING OF AGE
I listen to the news for about 15 mins, all the report keeps droning on about is how I'm 18 and that i'll be training to become King and I will have to find a wife soon, all that crap.
But luckily the servants come in, bowing as they enter ready to get me in my suit.
oOo
Astrid's PoV
"Astrid, honey, it's time for you to get up" I can hear my mum shouting from down stairs, she must be in the kitchen cooking breakfast since I can smell bacon that has been wafted through the house.
"Okay I'll get up in 10 minutes" I reply sleepily and role over to go back to sleep.
"No, you'll get up now missy it's 9 o'clock, we have to be at the palace for 11 the royal family have kindly laid out a buffet for Berk and we will attend ready for the ceremony at 1" Oh My Gods I totally forgot that it's the Princes Ceremony and ball, I need to get ready pronto.
But first I'm going to text Hiccup:
Astrid: morning babe, hope you haven't forgotten you promise to dance with me tonight!? Xxx
Hiccup: nope not at all but I don't know if it'll be possible m'lady xxx
Astrid: awwww, why?? :( xxx
Hiccup: my mum and dad are going to have a tight rain on me tonight, sorry Ast xxx
Astrid: why do they have such a tight rain on you Hiccup, it's not like your the Prince!!! Xxx
Hiccup: I know, I know my parents just want me to be with them and to make a good impression on the King, Queen and Prince, I think they want me to become friends with the Prince xxx
Astrid: I doubt you'll be able to get close to the Prince, he probably have guards all over him xxx
Hiccup: almost definitely but people can try, I'm sure he wouldn't mind xxx
Astrid: probably not he seems like a very nice down to earth person but he needs to be protect he is the heir to the throne xxx
Hiccup: and boy does he know it, I imagine xxx
Astrid: he's are age and has so much responsibility, it's admirable the way he copes xxx
Hiccup: I suppose... I really have to go Astrid I'm really sorry xxx
Astrid: okay babe, love you xxx
Hiccup: love you more xxx
With that I put my phone down on my bedside table and head down stairs to get some breakfast.
After breakfast I head into my bath room and begins to run a hot bubble bath, I think I deserve it with all the planning for the school ball in honour of the Prince. It's taken me and the school council months to get this all planed, we've all put blood sweat and tears into it, though Hiccup did become a little slack near the end but I suppose with all the stuff happening with his parents and Alvin it isn't a surprise he is struggling.
I turn of the bath water and undress, I slowly slide into the hot, steamy water and relax into the bubbles. I have about 30 minutes to have my bath before I have to get out and get ready, so for now I'll relax... I wonder what Hiccups doing?
Hiccups PoV
"Hugo, sire, can you please put your phone down it's making this task even more difficult" one of the servants say politely.
"Oh sorry, I didn't realise it was a problem" I give my phone to one of the servants to put down after I sent my final text to Astrid.
I can't stop thinking of Astrid and how she'll react when she finds out I'm the Prince, she'll probably want nothing to do with me because I've technically lied to her and she is dating me under false pretences. But then again this is Astrid, my Astrid, she'll understand I mean I love her and she loves me so it shouldn't matter but equally becoming a part of the royal family is almost like giving your freedom away. Can I really ask that of her???
"Ouch!" My thoughts are suddenly broken as I feel something pinch my skin.
"I'm- i'm so s-sorry sir" Lucky, one of the servant boys squeak and he bows again.
"Lucky don't worry about it, it was only a little pinch I think I'll live" I laugh and he smiles.
"I am really sorry Hugo, I'll do better"
"You are 16 years old, you are bound to make mistakes" I smile at him and then look away into the mirror.
It was almost hard to recognise myself standing in proper Princely attire, in fact this was my first proper time and for the first time in a very long time I felt like a Prince and I feel like I can rule the Kingdom one day. It sounds strange but looking at myself in the mirror complete with my suit and cloak on I look the part and I look confident and with Astrid by my side as well I know I can do this. It's a great feeling and I feel ready for today.
"Master Hugo there is only one thing left for you to do" David say to me whilst signalling towards the beautiful night fury mask that was laid on a red velvet cushion held by non other than Harry, Lucky's brother.
I step of the podium and walk forward towards the mask, I gently pick it up and slowly place it to my face. The cool metal touch's my skin and hugs around my face, fitting perfectly into every curve and contour.
I look up and stare into the mirror, the sight was amazing, everything fitted together perfectly, all the colours went together and the mask went so well with the suit it looked part of it. It's mind blowing.
I turn round to look at David and the servants and they all look in aww, very suddenly all the servants in the room get down on to one knee and bow. This happens very rarely and is a sign of the greatest upmost respect for someone, making me feel very, very honoured indeed.
I stand a little taller and look up a little before I bow my own head in respect. "you may rise" I say in the most un snobby voice as possible but in these situations they won't stand till instructed.
Everyone in the room rises just as my parents walk in.
"Oh my darling boy, you look absolutely amazing" my mother says in shock and delight as she rushes forward to give me a hug.
My father hangs back with a wide grin on his face admiring the beautiful ornate mask and stunning tailed suit.
"Hugo, my son, my heir, my child, I could not put into words how proud of you I am. You have come so far and done so much for our Kingdom and one day I know you will make a very fine King, much better than I. You know all the laws, all the codes and you know everyone of our people but remember Hugo, you are their Prince. You have to act like the Prince you are, except the gifts you receive gracefully, don't be rude and must importantly you must not show weakness and must always treat your people as your people find a balance between friends and your subjects. We protect them first and foremost ." He comes over and places a gentle hand on my shoulder. "Son, my boy, knock them dead" he says gently punching my shoulder, making me tense slightly, he then engulfs me in a hug along with my mother.
We all quickly pull away as the clock strikes 11.
"You majesty, it is time for one last run through the ceremony before your subjects come in at 12" Bruce a very old servant who organises pretty much everything, he is head of the servants.
"Thank you Bruce" I say as I bow my head and make to walk with him leaving my parents behind.
oOo
Astrid's PoV
As I walk into the Palace court yard with my family and I am amazed, there are banners every where going from wall to wall in the Berk colours. Tables of food to the eye can see are placed neatly around the walls of the courtyard and tables and seats are in the middle, each covered in a beautiful table spread with a flower in between every 4 people.
The castle look stunning, it had only the natural sunlight, lighting the castle, the white bricks gleaming and the glass windows somehow shining out casting all different colours on the ground. It's spectacular.
"Astrid dear, it's 10 past 11 and we are to be seated at 12 so hurry and get some lunch we won't get dinner till 7 I imagine." My mother says gently shoving me towards the food tables.
I grab myself a plate and place 3 small sandwiches on, all different fillings, then I moved onto cake, I took a slice of chocolate cake and grabbed some strawberries to go with it, finally I got myself a drink of water and went to sit with my parents who had some how already gotten there food.
"What happens after we eat?" I ask my mother and father.
"They open up the door and we walk towards the throne room which is behind the main staircase." My father says knowingly.
"Okay, thanks you"
I eat quickly trying not to get crumbs on my Sky blue dress, the dress is a corset dress and hugs round my waist and flares out slightly from my waist trailing behind me at the back. To compliment the dress I'm wearing black strapy heels along with a black sparkly bag. To match the dress for the ball, my mask is a deadly Nader in the same blue as my dress with purple and yellow flecks.
Trumpet sounds*
"It's time" my mother whispers as everyone stands up.
The giant main doors open and servants are at the door kindly leading the way, we walk Into the entrance and all look in aww, the celling is covered in banners that crisscross all the way up to the very top.
Looking in front I can see the beautifully decorated stair case decorated with the same banners in Berks colours and servants blocking the stair by standing across the bottom in a line.
Round the side of the staircase several servants are pointing the way to the big ornate doors of the throne room, as we enter we see the same banner patten but also a lot of flowers of all colours and species in bunches tied to beautifully carved marble pillars. Down the middle a red carpet with gold embroidery is laid and to either side are chairs all the way to the front, everyone with a name card showing us our allocated seats. At the very front are the thrones, there are two big thrones and on one side a slightly smaller throne, my guess is that's the Princes throne.
They where amazing to look at, they are beautiful carved blue/black marble with a silver cushion on the seating area. There where jewels of every colour on what clearly must be the Kings chair, or I suppose the person who inherited the throne if that was a female or male. The Queens chair, or the person who marries into the family's seat is also covered in jewels but not as many. And the Princes chair also had jewels but instead of having loads of mixed sized jewels he had 5 medium sized stones, one on each arm and three above where his head will be in a triangle shape.
We eventually find our seats and sit down, as the Prince had promised to Snotlout our family's where all sat together near the front, which is weird because we where sat with his family and very high status people, why are we here? It's not like the Prince knows us.
The thought doesn't last long as Snotlout, Fishleg's, the twins and Snotlouts family all come and sit down in their allocated seats.
It's strange how I'm sat on the front row next to Snotlout and directly behind are my parents and Fishlegs and the third row are where the twins are sat. Why am I on the front row?
I try and push this to the back of my mind, I'm clearly overthinking it so instead I concentrate on what everyone is wearing.
Snotlout certainly cleans up well but for some reason I think it might have been down to his mother. He's wearing a grey three price suit with silver embroidered around the edges, a purple tie and handkerchief, a pocket watch which showed of the silver chain and black Bruges. He looked very stylish, he even had his hair combed back which never happens.
Fishlegs looked good but he clearly doesn't have many suits or just terrible fashion sense, he has a tweed three piece suit on with a gold tie and brown Bruges. Being honest it made him look about 90.
The twins, well, I didn't know they could look so smart! Tuff is wear a army green three price suit with a brown bow tie and brown Bruges. His hair is neatly pulled back into a ponytail at the back of his head, on his wrist a very nice watch is displayed and in his jacket pocket a satin brown handkerchief was neatly peaking out.
Ruffnut also dressed amazingly, she has a satin bronze ball gown on. It's not a typical really puffy ball gown it's more of a slightly puffy dress that doesn't just fall straight down. She also has her hair pulled back into a neat bun with a Dutch plate leading into it, she has silver dangling earrings in, a necklace around her neck almost touching the sweetheart neck of her dress and a bracelet on her wrist. To top everything off she matched her dress with black hells and a black clutch.
Before I could think about anything else the trumpets sound again, I check my dad's watch and it's 11:45, before I could register anything else everyone was standing up. I look to the doors, two servants push them open to reveal the King and Queen standing side by side, the Queen gently holding on to the Kings arm.
They slowly walk down the centre of the room as the organ plays some anthem or something. The King and Queen look radiant, the Queen wearing a beautiful deep purple corset dress; it laced up at the back and the front had a beautiful silver pattern going down a panel central of the top of the dress. The sleeves are the same colour purple mesh with silver embroidered making a beautiful pattern all the way up the arm. The bottoms of the dress has two layers, the bottom was the same silver pattern, the top layer is plain purple with silver embroidered round the bottom of the dress and the edges. The top layers meet at the top in a point and fan out showing the beautiful underneath, but you can't see much of the top layer since it's covered with a silver velvet cape with gold embroidery all over in a beautiful pattern, it trailed about a meter behind her as she walked. The Queen has her hair beautifully styled, it was a half up half down style with four braids leading into a half bun, she has random braids all through her hair and the rest gently curled. On top of her head sat her crown, a beautiful white gold crown with beautiful jewel all over and it just sat perfectly atop her head, how does it even stay on? Along with the crown she has beautiful silver and diamond earrings in and a big diamond necklace round her neck.
The King also looked very dashing in a dark blue royal suit, on the shoulders are silver shoulder pads and gold chains hang from every button, the whole suit had silver and gold embroidery running round the edges. The Kings cape was a dark blue/black with white fur round the edges with silver and gold embroidery swirling in patients all over and it trailed about a meter and half behind him. He also wore the crown on the top of his head, perfectly balanced, the crown is magnificent it's the same white gold as the queens but with far more jewels including one big dark blue/black jewel in the very middle.
The King and Queen elegantly take their seats on their thrones, the King sat in the middle seat and the Queen on his right clearly leaving the Princes to be sat to his left in the Princes seat.
Everything goes astonishing quite, so quite you could hear a pin drop and a servant walks to the front, clearing his voice he says...
"Introduced our King and Queen, Stoic and Vallka Haddock" they remain seated but everyone in the room stands and bows.
With a nod from the King everyone straightens up just in time for the doors to open again. Through the door came the priest followed by tow servants, one holding the Princes crown and the other the royal seal, then a whole choir follows singing a beautiful anthem I can only presume to be in Latin and finally after they reach the front the Prince appears.
The Prince is a tall lean man with slightly messy aurburn hair, his face is covered by a night fury mask, the dragon of the royal house; the mask was covered in dark blue/black jewels and poking through the eye holes, piercing emerald eyes shine. The eyes seem very familiar, I know those eyes I swear. But who's are they??
Hiccups PoV
As I stand in the entrance of the throne room my heart jumps into my throat, all my people are stood looking at me, waiting for me to enter. As I see the last two choir boys move to their place I begging to walk slowly.
I am completely on my own walking down the middle of the room, my father told me to look straight ahead or at your loved ones but only look when you are passing them. So I look directly head with my head slightly elevated to give a more 'regal' appearance, that's what my tutor always use to tell me to assure I look the part.
I finally get near the front and I glance at Astrid, she thinking, I can tell by her face, I hope she doesn't recognise me.
I get to the front and turn around to face my people, with out a seconds notice everyone bows. I wait a little while and finally bow my head so they can rise, they all then take there seat since the pries tells them. I obviously remain standing and the ceremony stars...
oOo
... 30 minutes later the priest had finally finished saying the prep stuff and he's about to put the ring on my finger. I freeze. This is it. Am I worthy.
I stand facing my parents and the priest, the priest gently grabs my left hand and says...
"People of Berk, this is it, our Prince will be judged to see if he is worthy, by the power I hold I say, let he be judged." with that he slowly places the ring on my wedding finger.
All of a sudden a really strange feeling becomes me, I can't explain how I feel it's like something is trying to burst out my chest, suddenly a bright multi colour light burst from my chest filling the whole room then suddenly spreading out over Berk.
All of a sudden I feel weightless but I can't see, my mind is blank and all I see is white, suddenly a black/blue dragon stands before me. This must be toothless, the protectors of the ring. He comes up to me and I feel a strong urge to reach out and touch him. I slowly reach my hand out and look away, after a minute or so I feel his snout press into my hand and I'm suddenly blow back to reality.
I have no idea what just transpired as my feet slowly hit the ground. I look at my parents who stare in utter shock along with everyone in the room.
I then look to the priest for help who steps forwards.
"Prince Hugo has been judged, and for the first time we have the purists of souls as our Heir. He has been judged as the most worthy Heir since time began because he has been marked with the mark of the night fury. His destiny is set to be the best King ever to walk the earth as this has never been seen but according to the scriptures he has been blessed with a souls of a Dragon and a heart of a King."
I stare at the Priest as he holds up our holy book showing me the picture and the description of what has happened. And he's right it say that I have a souls of a Dragon.
I'm going to pass out.
Before I can do anything the priest speaks again. "It is time to crown our Prince the true and most pure heir of Berk" as I look to my people I can see Alvin sneering on the front row, fists balled but on the other side on the front row I can see Astrid looking in aww. My beautiful Astrid, she looked proud which made me feel proud, even though she is proud of the Prince not me.
The servant with my crown on the satin red pillow walks towards the Priest, I get down on one knee towards my parents and the priest and wait for him to put the crown on my head. As he slowly places it on top of my head I feel that stage feeling again but this time it's coming from my head. The cool metal touches my head and I feel the pressure leave my head along with a bright white light.
I slowly look up and then finally stand to turn to my people.
"The Prince is crowned" my dad says form behind me in a cheer.
Everyone in the room including my parents get onto one knee and bow, I stand tall and look around the room before I finally say...
"Please rise" And they all do.
I walk over to my throne where my parents are stood, and at the same time we all sit down on our thrones and everyone bows again but to all three of us.
The choir sing another anthem as we sit in our thrones and our people stay staring at me in their seats.
Finally the choir finish and myself and my parents stand up to leave, I walk out first my cape trailing elegantly behind me as I keep my head forward and slightly up like I was always told. Then my parents follow along with the servants behind them and then everyone else all filing out into the courtyard. In the meanwhile myself and my parents walk to the atrium to prepare for the ball and going out onto the main balcony.
oOo
As soon as I get into the atrium I turn to my parents in a rage, throwing my mask onto the sofa in the process. "WHAT THE HELL JUST HAPPENED, was this in my prophecy, is this what you couldn't tell me"
"Hugo all it said was something great will happen when you are crowned and we just found out you are the most worthy person to ever walk this earth why are you mad?" My dad says confused.
"Because I didn't know what was happening to me and I don't know what Happened, what does the priest mean when he says I've been marked with the mark of the night fury?" I say pacing back and forth in front of them.
"You don't know?" My mum asks.
"Nope, I kinda blacked out of sorts, I saw Toothless the night fury of the ring and I touched him then I came back."
"You touched him?"
"Yes?"
"Hugo, no one has ever touched him"
"Really?"
"This must be why you have been marked"
"Literally marked??" Both my parents nod, still looking shocked.
"WHAT, where?" I yelp.
"Your back" my mother says.
"My back?... wait if it's on my back how do you know it's there?" I ask, the confusion clear in my voice.
My parents give each other an odd look "Well son... your shirt may have come undone and kind of floated off and then a bright gold light shone out of your back showing the night funny Mark. Then it went back in you and left the blue night fury mark on your skin." I stare at them in utter shock.
I stand there staring at them for a few minuets, trying to process what I've herd.
"Hugo, son, are you okay" my father says carful putting a hand on my shoulder.
"I have a Mark on my back, that's permanent. I have the soul of a Dragon apparently and supposedly meant to be the best ruler Berk will ever see. Why would I not be okay with THIS landed on me!" I turn to face the windows away from my parents, how is this possible?
"Hugo, I know this is hard and scary but you need to pull yourself together and be their Prince." My dad points to the window mean the people behind it.
"I know father but it's a lot to take in to be frank, I have a soul of a DRAGON!!"
"You are very blessed son, be proud" my mother gently says.
"We knew you where something special" dad says proudly.
"You can do this, honey" my mum says hugging me.
"I need five minutes alone, I'll be back soon" I say walking towards my bedroom.
"But master Hugo..." a servant pleads.
"I will be alone. " I interrupt him in a that's an order tone, I said it rather harshly but I don't know how to cope.
I finally get into my room and strip my top and under top off, I face the mirror, to scared to turn around. After a couple deep breaths I turn around, first thing I see is no scars as I slowly turn, then between my shoulders I see it. The blue mark; it's big, its central between my shoulder blades, a blue night fury curled into a circle shape, what's strange is one of the tail fins is red not blue and the eyes are piercing green.
I stare at the mark a little longer, it's not the worse thing to have permanently on you, it's better than scars but equally it's scary. Does this mark change me, does it fade or get larger, what does it do??
knock knock knock*
Before I could answer Ben walks in "Hugo, are you okay" he says with concern.
"You may be my servant but you don't have to always be at my side" I say also a little harshly and I see the hurt flash across his face.
"Actually I do but I came as your friend actually but clearly you don't feel the same" he goes to leave sounding angry and hurt.
"Wait... I'm sorry, of course you are my friend I'm just scared, Ben. What does this mean, what does it lead to?" I sit on my bed my head in my hands surprised that my crown is still on and also with my shirt still off.
"It means you are you, you are Hugo and are the kindest, politest, smartest, purest of us all. You are everything we are not but what you are now is an idiot who needs to pull himself together" he says firmly standing in front of me.
"May I remind you I'm the Prince" I say sarcastically with a slight undertone of seriousness.
"I'm talking to you as a friend not one of your subjects, Hugo" he sounds even more firm.
"You're right, you're right, I'm sorry again I shouldn't have been so rude. Let's do this" I get up and pick my shirt up beginning to put it on, I don't bother with the undershirt, I have nothing to hide now. Well not till school where I have to hide the mark on my back.
"There's the Hugo I know, go get them" Ben says patting me on the back as I walk out the door fastening my last button up.
oOo
When I get back into the atrium my parents are sat with a worried expression on their faces.
They jump up as they see me "Hugo! Are you okay" my mother says worriedly.
"Fine, mother, I just need to process it all and I think I'm okay now, sorry for my impertinence and sorry Bruce for being rude to you" Bruce gives a quick nod of forgiveness at which I smile at.
"Hugo, when you where a babe, such a wee thing, I feared you wouldn't make it but your father never doubted you and said you would become the strongest of them all and he is right. You have the heart of a King and a soul of a Dragon. Only you can unit us all" my mother says gently as she plays with my hair.
"Your mother is right Hugo, you are the best of us all and now you need to be you, and shine" my dad says in agreement with my mum.
"You ready your highness's" Bruce asks pointing to the opening doors, I take my mask out of my fathers hands and place it to my face.
"More than ever" I say confidently and stride out in front of my parents onto the balcony.
oOo
Astrid PoV
As we all wait patiently for the Prince to appear on the balcony no one could stop them self talking about this revelation, in our life time we have seen the most pure Heir and soon King.
"Astrid" Fishlegs runs over with the others, clearly they where looking for me in the crowd.
"Oh my Gods, what just happened" Snotlout says looking like he'd seen a ghost.
"We have been blessed, Snotlout. Your cousin is the purist of heart and will save us all" I say in a clear tone.
"Do you think he knew?" Ruffnut asked.
"By the look on he gave his parents and the priest he had no idea" Heather said coming up behind Ruff and Tuff giving them both heart attacks.
"GODS HEATHER!! Trying to kill us?" Ruff snaps.
"Clearly not succeeding!" She jokes.
"I wonder what this will mean for the Prince, will he get powers or a special place in Valhalla?" I ask inquisitively.
"Maybe, Hiccup would know he's read every book I swear" Fishleg says.
"Talking about Hiccup where is he?" Tuff asks.
"I don't know" Heather adds.
"I think he has to stay with his parents" I clarify.
"Ohhh, okay" Tuff says clearly losing interest.
"HEY! I just thought of something, we can find out who the Prince is!" Ruff chirps up.
"And how Ruffnut would we do that" I say dryly.
"All we have to do is pull up every male 18 year olds shirt up, duh"
"So Ruff how close do you think you can get to the Prince before you get shot?" I say blankly.
"Errr, haven't thought of that but it's a minor technicality."
"No it's a big technicality Ruff" Fish jumps into help me.
"Tamato, tomato" she brushes it off.
Before I could punch her the trumpets sounded and out came the Prince and his parents fallowing behind. And silence fell.
"My people, I am so honoured you could make it today. This is a big step in my life and certainly one that doesn't come without struggle but knowing you are here, behind me, to support me it makes all the difference. I didn't know what was going to happen when I entered the throne room today and we can certainly say everyone was surprised. I don't know how it all happened but I have been judged and I have been judged to be the purist of souls and I will spend every second I'm still breathing to live up to that, and to use this gift for Berk. I don't know what the journey ahead is like, it could be filled with pain and sorrow but I will always protect you from that and make your life's full of happiness and light. You are my people and I your Heir, and I took an oath to protect you and to serve you and I will to my dying breath." His voice is clear and strong, filling everyone's heart with hope and joy at his words.
Everyone gives a bow and then rises, then the cheering began. Everyone is so happy and ecstatic we have our Heir and the future of Berk looks bright. You can tell when you look into the Princes eyes that he isn't lying and that fills me with comfort but also love, and I've only felt that when I look into Hiccups eyes... oh my Gods. It's Hiccup.
I try to calm myself down knowing I'm being stupid but I also know I'm not, I love Hiccup and I know that must be him.
I stare at him waving at his people and take in his appearance, he had messy aurburn hair like Hiccup, Green eyes like Hiccup, his tall and lanky like Hiccup and Hiccup isn't here, apparently he is with his parents which is true since they are behind him on the balcony.
"Astrid" Heather suddenly breaks my train of thought.
"Hmm"
"Are you okay, you look like you are having an internal crisis."
"No...I'm fine, don't worry" I lie hoping she believes me, I'm going to have to test my theory later but for now I have to stay cool.
oOo
After what felt like an age the doors to the palace open again and out walks a young man, round about my age maybe older.
"Dear people of Berk, please have your invites ready and be prepared to be search. Phones or any devise that can take a photo or video is forbidden and will be taken off you till you leave. After that please enjoy the Ball."
Everyone groups up and about a hundred servants come out and begin to search people, I among them.
"Invite?" The same young man asked me.
I reach into my clutch and pull out my invite, my phone and camera.
He takes the invites and smirks, "Astrid Hofferson, Martin Hofferson's girl?" He asks.
"Yes that's me and who are you" I answer and hand over my phone and camera.
He smirks "Ben, Prince Hugo's personal servant"
"The Prince has a personal servant?" I ask curiously.
"Of course he does, he's the Prince!! I've been his servant since he was 13 and I was 15"
"That young, really?" I'm shocked by his reply.
"A personal servant has to be around the same age because we help them with everything! Though the Prince is very independent, he doesn't like me waiting on him like I'm paid to" he says laughing.
"But he still has a servant, isn't it a bit…old fashion" why can't they do things themselves?
"No, it's traditional. They have a lot of work to do and just like a manager at a business they delegate and give employees work." He points out sounding stern, I think I might have crossed the line.
"Sorry I didn't meant to sound impertinent and that makes a lot of sense actually" I sounded like a child being told off a little.
"It's fine, I haven't really done much till resent"
"Why's that?"
"he has lived with one of his Uncles since he was 12 and all I've had to do is look after him when he stayed over and keep his room clean."
"His Uncle?"
"Yes his Uncle Alvin, he's a horrible man" he say bitterly.
"Wait, he's lived with him since he was 12, the man is called Alvin and he is a bastard??" I ask shocked.
"Yes… what does it matter to you?" He asks curiously.
"Does his Uncle by any chance beat him?" I ask through my teeth, the thought of Alvin making my blood boil.
"Oh" was all he said.
"Oh my Gods!" I stare at him in utter shock at the revelation. I knew it.
"Come with me" he grabs my hand and pulls me into the palace and up the stairs which are blocked by servants.
We continued going till we entered a spectacular room with massive stain glass doors which I can only presume that lead onto the main balcony.
"Hugo, I need you to come to the atrium now please" Ben says into a little device.
"Why Ben, the ball is just beginning and I am expected to walk in, in about ten minutes when all the guests are in." He sounded a little exasperated.
"It's very important" he insisted.
"Okay I'll be there in five mins" he said reluctantly.
"H-Hiccups the-the Prince, isn't he." I say stammering a little and leaning on the coffee table in the room, I suddenly felt a little faint.
He didn't reply he just kept looking at me " It all makes sense now, the reason he couldn't come with me to the ball, the reason he lived with that dick Alvin, the reason we could sneak into the palace, how he wasn't shocked by the palace when the King first announced the Ceremony and Ball and how I've seen people bow to him. Oh my Gods, I'm dating the Prince. I knew it, I knew his voice and the eyes behind the mask, the eyes I fell in love with and I've only felt that when I look at Hiccup." I look up at Ben and then suddenly Hiccup appears taking his mask off as he comes up.
"This better be important Ben" he says not yet looking up.
Then he looks up and freezes "A-Astrid" he says shocked.
"Hiccup" I reply even more shocked, even though I knew it was him actually seeing him in his crown and royal attire made it so much more really and no longer speculation.
"Ben what is the meaning of this" he sounded cross.
"Hugo, I didn't realise this was your girlfriend and I was simply chatting and then she spoke about Alvin and you and she knew. That's why I took her straight up here before anyone heard anything and so you two can talk." He says bowing his head.
"Leave" he says not taking his eyes off me and Ben bows and walks away.
Hiccup walks up to me but I take a step back, I really don't know why because he is still my Hiccup but at the same time he isn't.
"Astrid… I really did want to tell you, I-I-I just couldn't think of losing you and n-now you know, you'll w-want to leave m-me" he looked at me and I could see his heartbreaking in his eyes.
"Hiccup, sorry Hugo, I'm not going anywhere but I need and deserve an explanation. A proper one." I say softly and his face lights up.
"I thought I had lost you for a moment then and yes I'll tell you everything but I cannot do it now. I'm really sorry but I have to attend my Ball and I can't be late" he says pleadingly.
"Okay I understand that but can you do one thing for me now?" I ask carefully.
"Anything" he says determinedly.
"Lift up your shirt"
oOo
Hiccups PoV
"Lift my shirt up?" I ask her confused, out of anything she could have asked she goes for that one.
I mean it's not every day you find out your boyfriend is the Prince. I was absolutely shocked to see her standing there as I entered the atrium next to Ben, my stomach suddenly turning inside out and my brain going to putty. What was she going to think or do, was she going to freak out and leave me or go and tell everyone or what. I was really scared I was going to lose her along with my identity.
"Yes your shirt." She suddenly broke my thoughts.
"If you insist" I say as I undo my shirt, I'm guessing she wants to see the night fury mark and the absence of scars.
I take my cape and shirt fully off and place them on a chair near me and then walk towards Astrid.
"T-turn round" she says shakily and I do as bid.
"Hiccup, this is amazing your scars are gone and-and you have been blessed with the mark of the night fury" she says as she rubs her hands down my back.
I turn round to face her and look deep into her eyes before kissing her sweetly and passionately.
"Milady I am sorry for all the problems I have coursed and I love you very much and I hope you still love me. I am still Hiccup, your Hiccup and my heart is yours forever as a Prince or a poor neglected boy. I am yours… but you don't have to be mine, if you don't want to continue this relationship then we won't. It is hard to be a royal and it's a lot to ask of someone." I say as I hold both her hands.
"Hiccup, my Hiccup you have my heart also and forevermore. I will be with you for the good days and the bad and I will except what the good and the bad that come along with you, even if it means giving up some of my freedom" she says sweetly as she looks into my eyes and I see the determination and love in them.
"Astrid, I love you"
"Prince Hugo, I love you too" she say and leans up to kiss me which I return.
"Hmmm, Princess Astrid… has a nice ring to it" I joke and she smile up at me.
"Princess you say… I like it!" She says and then looks at my crown.
"You will end up getting a crown if that's what you are thinking" I laugh as I pull away and begin to put my shirt and cape back on.
"No actually! I was wondering how on earth that's staying on your head!" She laughs.
"With great practice milady, I've been training since I could walk"
"Really??"
"Well I am the Prince and we tend to have to show a good impression milady, there are a lot of traditions, rules, codes and laws I have to know off by heart along with things like table etiquette, how to stand, how to walk, what to do when someone bows to you, what to do if someone should bow to you but isn't, how to speak proper, how to balance a crown, how to become a King" I ramble jokingly with a seriousness to it.
"Oh Yh, I keep forgetting you are the Prince" she laughs and then walks towards me and kisses me one more time.
I grab my com and press the button, "Ben, here now please" I say quickly.
"Be right there" was the short reply.
oOo
Ben returned quickly and took Astrid down to the ball whilst I waited, I'm not really sure what to think. She knows I'm the Prince now and she is taking it actually really well, she still wants to be with me witch is a miracle in itself and she promises not to tell anyone witch I believe because I trust her. Though it still feels so surreal.
"HUGO, WHERE ARE YOU!" My dad's booming voice comes through my com.
"Sorry Dad an emergency came up, I'll explain later. I'm on my way now." I say and walk towards the ball room.
I press the com "Ben, is Astrid in the ballroom?"
"Yes she's just walked down the stairs, she court a lot of people's eye! She is very beautiful." He says jokingly as he answers the com.
"I know I'm the luckiest guy on the planet"
"Indeed" he said trying to cover his laughter.
"Anyway I'm going to be at the ball room doors in a minute" and I end the com.
Not even a minuet later I was standing outside the ball room doors, two servants come up to me and started to straighten out my suit and cape making sure I was properly dressed. They then stepped aside as another two servants opened the double doors to the ball room. At this point I stood up tall elevated my head a little and walked forward with confidence and poise although I felt very nervous and that my heart was going to explode from my chest.
"ANNOUNCING PRINCE HUGO HORRENDOUS HADDOCK THE THIRD" I heard a servant boom and that was my cue to walk through the double doors and into the ball room.
I wait a minute at the top of the stairs before I walk down onto the ball room floor where I walk up to my parents who are standing by the thrones in the ball room.
I turn once again to my people "let the Ball begin with the first dance by the Prince and whom every he chosen " Dad say loud enough so everyone can hear him.
I walk to Astrid who has her deadly Nader mask on and I bow my head and offer my hand "May I have this dance?"
"Certainly" She curtsied and takes my hand.
It's traditional for the persons who's Ball it is to have the first dance to start the Ball. I lead Astrid on to the dance floor and to the centre.
"Follow my lead" I whisper in her ear as I pull her close and place one hand firmly on her waist and I take her other hand, in response she places her free hand on my shoulder.
The music beings to play for a slow Waltz and I could feel Astrid tense a little "don't worry just go with the flow and look at me" I say hushed and start to lead the dance.
I take her round the Ballroom doing a slow and gentle steps and and occasional gentle spin out then into a backwards hug then out again and back to our starting stance. I continue going round the room gently leading her and keeping her waist pressed against my hips to keep the dance smooth.
She was a natural, she followed my lead and knew what I was going to do. She gently steps her foot a little between my legs as we step forward and she leaves enough room for me to do that to her when we step backwards and when we turn she naturally finds her footing and elegantly spins. She was like a Goddess gliding across the floor.
The song was coming to an end so I lead her to the middle of the room exactly when the music stop. I stepped away from her and bowed to her which she replied in kind with a curtsy.
The music began to play again but it was more upbeat and lively, I take Astrid's hand and walk towards the drinks table.
"A drink milady after that fine dance?" I offer.
"Why Prince Hugo that would be lovely" she joked with me as our friends come to crowd us.
"Oh my Gods Astrid you just danced with the Prince" Heather and Ruff say as they bounce up to her clearly not noticing me.
"I know, it was magical" she gives me a quick sideways look as I wait for them to notice.
"He dances so beautiful and you where a natural" Heather says.
"Thank you and yes she is a natural" I say as the others jump round almost falling over.
"Oh my Gods, Prince Hugo I'm sorry we didn't see you there" Heather says and they all go to bow.
I roll my eyes but stand up tall till they rise "don't worry about it Heather Oswald, Freddie Ingerman, Robbin and Taylor Thorston and finally dear cousin Scot." I say and their mouths drop.
"H-how do you k-know our names?" Fishlegs asks sounding a little scared.
"I am the Prince, I know everyone's name and those invites didn't write themselves!" I laugh at the discomposed bunch.
"Oh, I'm sorry your highness for being stupid but we have masks on" I look shocked at him.
"Freddie, I can tell whom everyone is mask or not and why would I think you stupid" wow I really am starting to sound like a Prince.
"Well you laughed so I assumed you where laughing at my stupidity and wow" he says head cast down.
"Just because I happen to be a Prince doesn't mean I can't have a joke with my people. I laugh at nobody only with them so take my apology for making you feel inadequate because you are not and it was never intentional" I say firmly and offer my hand to Fishlegs.
For a couple seconds he stares at me in shock then takes my hand and shakes it "apology excepted." He says smiling.
At that moment I realised I couldn't joke like I was their friend because technically I wasn't and people are looking at me like a Prince not as a nobody, this is going to be hard it's like making friends all over again.
I smile at all of them and offer each one my hand witch they all take and shake. When I got to Snotlout I offered my hand again which he takes.
"Cousin it has been too long" I say still shaking his hand.
"Dam right"
I quickly pull him into a hug which he returns and we both laugh "Well the tough Prince mask has gone" Snot says laughing.
"Oh dear what will become of me" I joke back with him, it felt like old times.
"Your highness…" Ruff begins.
"It's Hugo" I interrupt her.
"Sorry?" She says carefully.
"It's Hugo, not highness or Prince or majesty, Hugo will do just fine! Sorry for interrupting you" I say to all of them.
"Oh, alright. Hugo do you have to wear what you are wearing all the time" I laugh at her question it was a typical Ruff and Tuff thing to say.
"Robbin" Heather hisses.
"No, no it's fine. Not this attire unless it's a special occasion such as this but I do where a suit normally and I do have to wear my crown and a cape, though not this cape a different one and all the time" I laugh.
"But what about when you go to school?" Tuff asks.
"I wear jeans and a t-shirt like everyone else"
"But you can't where your crown at school" Ruff says.
"Indeed, I have been pardoned if you will form wearing it all the time but I do have to wear the royal seal all the time."
"That awesome ring that made you glow and get a tattoo?" Tuff says excitedly.
"The very same" I laugh.
"COOL" the twins say at the same time and high five.
At that minute my Dad comes up behind them "I do hope my Son isn't being a pain" my dad laughs making Ruff and Tuff jump.
"Oh, n-no sir…" Heather begins.
"Relax, I'm only teasing! Just because I am the King doesn't mean I can't have a laugh" he jokes.
"Father, this is…"
"Hugo I know who they are!" He laughs.
"I do know that I just thought I would formally introduce you" I say a little exasperated.
"Very well, proceeds" I roll my eyes at him but don't object.
"Astrid, Heather, Freddie, Robbin and Taylor, this is King Stoic my father. "King Stoic, Astrid, Heather, Freddie, Robbin and Taylor" I say and they all bow to the King and in kind Dad inclines his head.
"HEY, what about me!" Scot says from behind me.
"Scot, you're my cousin the Kings nephew we know who you are!" I say turning to him.
"So would have been nice to be introduced" he grumbles.
"We where introduce when you where born Scot, don't need to be introduced again" my dad says laughing. "…so Astrid Hofferson, Martins lass?"
"Yes" she replies simply.
"I've been waiting to meet you" He says getting a little to personal for my liking since he knows that my girlfriend.
"Oh?"
"Your Father is a loyal servant and speaks highly of his daughter, the famous Astrid!" He glance at me quickly.
"I'm sure he is only jesting" she says brushing him off and giving me a side ways glance.
"Actually…"
"Dad, I do believe we have to do some socialising. Do excuse us." I cut him off mid sentence grabbing his arm and walk away as the others bow there heads.
oOo
Astrid's PoV
"Whoa!" Ruff and Tuff say as we keep looking at the two royals walk off.
"I know" Heather adds.
"They are so cool" Scot say jumping up and down.
"I'm going to faint" Fishlegs squeaks.
"Get a grip guys, he is only Hic- Prince Hugo" I quickly correct myself only Heather noticing my mistake.
"Exactly he's a Prince and he spoke to us"
"Calm down Fish" Snot says irritated.
"Scot stop being a moody ass and go talk to your family, the Queen keeps looking at you so maybe you should go say 'hi'" I offer.
"Trying go get rid of us so you can have the Prince to yourself"
"And why would I want to do that?" I ask sharply.
"He is a Prince thought you might want to get in there good books if you get what I mean" He wiggles his eyebrows at me.
"No, I'm with Hiccup" I shout at him and everyone in the groups head snaps round including hiccups.
"Wait… what?"
"Erm I mean… err" I stutter.
"You are dating Hiccup aren't you?" Heather asks excitement in her voice.
"I mean… Yh" I blush as the gang look at me and I can see Hiccup laughing in the background at me, He is so dead Prince or not.
"OH MY GODS, Astrid this is great" heather jumps with excitement giving me a hug along with Ruff.
"Where is Hiccup?" Fishlegs suddenly asks.
"With his family I believe" I look over at him seeing him joyfully chatting with some of his people.
"Can't he come meet us?"
"I don't think so Tuff" I say not taking my eyes of him.
"That's a bummer" Snot adds " but we are at a fricking Ball so let's have fun!" He says grabbing a drink off a tray a servant is carrying as he walks by.
oOo
Hiccups PoV
The Ball has been going for about and hour now and everyone seems to be enjoying themselves. Quite a lot of people have come up and spoke to me and it has been very nice just chatting almost casually with my people and just generally getting to know everyone properly.
"Laddie!" A booming voice sounded behind me.
"Sorry Beverly and Bert do excuse me" I say to the couple I was chatting with and they both incline their heads and walk away as I turn round to see the huge shape of Gobber.
"You do look fine lad" he says patting me on the back nearly sending me flying.
"Gobber, glad you could make it"
"Wouldn't ne miss this for the world" he pulls me into a side ways hug.
"Course you wouldn't, you've been more excited than me almost giving it away because of it" I say a little sternly.
"Erm… arr… Yh sorry about that Prince Hugo" he says scratching the back of his neck.
"Don't worry about it everyone will find out soon enough just go and enjoy yourself but stay off the mead, okay?"
"Okay" He says like a pathetic child.
"Dads over there" I point to him "have fun" I joke and pat him on the back.
"I will, you too lad it's a party you don't have to always wear the Prince mask!" He says walking away.
"I'm afraid I do" I say back but he just waves his hand like he does when he dismisses the class at the end of the day.
Before anyone comes to crowd me I go over to my friends manly Astrid, I really want another dance with her. I might be able to get a group dance going.
"Hello Milady, would you care for another dance?" I say as I bow and offer my hand.
"Of course" she says gently taking my hand.
"Why does Astrid always get to dance with the Prince!" Ruff says a little whiny.
"I will dance with you after Robbin and you as well Heather if you would like" I say as I lead Astrid gracefully on to the dance floor.
"YES!!" Ruff shouts.
"That would be lovely, thank you" Heather says and I incline my head.
Me and Astrid reach the centre of the Ball room just as the music changes and we start to dance along with a load of other couples. It felt amazing gliding along the floor with her in my arms, it felt like it was only us and no one else but unfortunately it was over too quick.
"I believe you owe Ruffnut a dance" she says laughing and she steps always and I bow to her whilst I take her hand and press a kiss to it.
"Gods help me!" I says jokingly as she curtsy to me and laughs.
"Let's hope they are on your side"
"Indeed"
I walk off the dance floor and over to Ruff letting Astrid separate and go to Heather.
"Robbin, will you give me this honour?" I said bowing and offering my hand which she takes instantly.
"Why sire, I would love to" saying it overly dramatic as she curtsies.
I lead her on to the dance floor like I did with Astrid and we begin to dance and to my utter amazement she wasn't half bad.
"So Hugo, how's it hanging?" Is she trying to flirt with me.
"It's great thank you Robbin, how is it with you?"
"Awesome, just chilling"
"Sounds fascinating"
"Oh it is, I'm in the cheer squad at school I'm passing all my classes and I have the best friends"
"Yes they seem a great bunch"
"They are but our group leader is missing"
"Group leader?" I say confused.
"Yh Hiccup, he keeps us all in check" she jokes.
"Oh, and why isn't he here?" I'm trying to sound less suspicious don't think it's working though.
"Family things I think, you two would get along very well actually you have a lot in common"
"More than you think" I mumble under my breath.
"What was that?"
" I said oh really" I lie.
"Yh he's really smart, kind and caring like you"
"Why thank you Ruf- Robbin"
"Wait… did you just go to call me… Ruff?"
"No" I answer way to fast.
"Yes you did, only my friends or people from my high school know that name"
"Astrid told me it whilst we where dancing, I only corrected myself because it is not proper to call you by nicknames"
"Oh that makes sense, sorry your highness" she says as she steps away and I bow and kiss her hand.
"No problem" She curtsy in kind.
"Now to dance with Heather"
I walk towards Heather and greet her the same as I did with Astrid and Ruffnut and as I did with them we danced. She was very elegant and experienced we actually managed to do a harder dance and it felt amazing.
"Heather Oswald, daughter of Oswald Oswald the owner of berserk banks" I comment taking her back.
"H-how do you know that" she says shocked.
"Do people just forget I'm a Prince!" I joke lightly.
"Even so you shouldn't know I'm his daughter, nobody knows"
"Yes nobody but me, see my parents don't know but I know an Oswald when I see one even if they change their last name. How's your brother?"
"How can you know all this?" She says really taken back.
"I read a lot, I have access to everyone's personal files and not trying to sound cockey but I'm smart and I can tell a forged document when I see one"
"And how's that?"
"There are certain tale tell signs like the letters; instead of having a smooth edge it's blurred ever so slightly, the document has one more water mark than it should." I say matter of fact.
"Oh… well… I can… explain" she says sheepishly.
"Although it is a crime Heather I'm not hear to bust you. I understand why you have a secret identity it's to keep you safe and to give you freedom, I am very much in the same boat even I have a forged document so I can go to a normal school."
"So…I'm not in trouble?"
"No, no, this is a Ball and it's for fun not for busting people" I laugh.
"Thank you, Hugo" she says seriously.
"My absolute pleasure Heather." I smile at her and we both bow as the song has ended. " Now let's grab you friends and start a group dance going" I grab her hand and pull her to the others.
Once we get there Heather grabs Astrid's arm and Astrid grabs Tuff, Tuff grabs Ruff and so on. I clap my hands twice and the band begin to play an upbeat tune. As we got to the middle we started a typical old fashion group dance and more and more people where joining.
As the dance goes on I dance with many girls as the lady's move round the men, it was great till… Regina.
"Hey Hugo honey" she says as she spins into me.
"Regina please refer to me as Prince Hugo, Hugo or highness not honey." I say irritably but trying to hide it.
"Sorry highness, I like a firm man" she say what I think is meant to be seductively.
"Oh really" I say trying not to engage but also not to be rude.
"Yh, and since you know my name it seems you've been looking me up and have a crush on me" I almost choke on air.
"Excuse me?…I am the Prince for one I don't stalk people, two I know everyone in the kingdoms name and three you need to move on" I spin her out so she can take the hand of the next gentleman but she pushes back into me and passes the next girl on witched happened to be Astrid. My eyes lingered on her for a while.
"You don't need her you have me and…" she leans up to whisper something in my ear " we can have a lot of fun later?" She suggested ready to pull me away but I pull her back in.
"Did you know that touching me inappropriately is treason and you can go to jail for a very very long time for it?" I say holding her firm as we still dance.
"But… but…" She stutters looking in utter shock.
"No buts. Just remember who you are talking to because I don't make these rules the King does and once his mind is set I won't be able to change it so heed my warning." I say trying to sound on her side so she doesn't hate me.
"Oh…okay" She says head down and I spin her away and to the next man.
Thank the Gods she's gone! The next person spins into me and it happens to be my mother.
"Hello Mum, how's things?" I ask as I gently dance with her.
"Oh you know Hugo, fun but equally tiering" she jokes lightly.
"No rest for a royal!" I joke.
"Indeed" she laughs with me.
"Feels like I haven't had a rest since the day I was born!"
"You haven't, dear" she laughs.
I laugh with her and we continue dancing till I had to pass her on but the dance continued.
oOo
Astrid's PoV
Errr Regina!! I've been waiting to dance with Hiccup all this dance its not like its to much to ask, is it. He is my boyfriend after all and of course I want to dance with him even if he is a Prince. Stupid Regina, she hates Hiccup so I cannot wait till she finds out he is the Prince, it'll be so funny.
My thoughts are suddenly broken as I spin into the next man which happens to be the… KING!!! "Hello, Astrid" he says gruffly.
"Oh… Hello your highness" I say politely.
"Hugo tells me you know who he is?" He says leaning a little closer.
"Yes, I kinda found out by mistake" I say shyly.
"How are you coping with the news?"
"Pardon?" Did the King just ask about my feelings?
"I know it can come as a great shock to find your love is a royal and I know it's no easy task" he says gently.
"I'm happy for him and glad I finally know, I knew he was hiding something"
"He's not a good lier, I know" he laughs.
"You're telling me"
"So… you'll be a Princess?" He says softly.
"Oh I'm well aware" I say a little panicked.
"Don't panic lass, you won't suddenly be stacked with a load of paper work or royal duty's. You'll be eased into it and if you truly love Hugo it'll be easy for both of you because you'll be doing it together." He says calmly with a smile.
"Course I love him, it's just a little bit of shock that's all." I say a little harsher than was meant. "Sorry Sire, I do not mean to be rude" I say blushing and looking down.
"Aye lass, it's fine I understand it's difficult. Val found it hard in the beginning, you should go talk to her you know she'll be able to give you some advice. Also dear, be patient with him, his responsibility our greater now and he has been blessed will as sole of a Dragon and he's a little shaken. Be there, hold him, love him. He will need it." He says gently but I can read the seriousness of what he says in his eyes.
"I will King Stoick" I say determinedly.
The King nods his head, " I know you will lass" he smiled and spins me of to the next gentleman.