Chapter 2 - Living to the Fullest - Normal Days G
First, I'd like to extend an apology to you all. It HAS been quite a while since the last update and I decided that I had left you hanging quite enough. Still, this chapter was supposed to be longer than this, but I was afraid of leaving you without anything, so the rest will be posted at a later day, as a separate chapter.
Apologies, but I do hope you enjoy!
Jack's POV
I've never actually experienced hunger like this before. I had to hand it to the Headmaster this time around, the bastard really found a way to torture us that was effective.
However, now its not the time to praise that bear. As Hic had said, we had to find a way out of here. Even if I was hungry. And even if this bed had made my back ache due to how stiff it was ("Normal Room" my ass., there was nothing in this room aside from my bed and a light fixture!)
So, ignoring the ache in my stomach, I swiftly rolled out of bed and ruefully put on some shoes (we we're going to trek through the snow, after all) and walked outside of my room.
Halfway down the stairs and near the lobby, I debated whether I should pick up Hic like usual or not. As I hesitated on the steps, however, I heard a hushed conversation.
"This is a bad idea, Anna."
"You're a bad idea, Elsa!"
Huh... Anna and Elsa...? What are they talking about?
...And why is Anna so bad at having hushed conversations?
Naturally, I did the right thing and I leaned closer to the wall in order to eavesdrop better. This conversation might be important, and it would be irresponsible of me to miss it, right? Right. So with bated breath, I waited hidden until they continued talking.
"Seriously, Anna, think this through.", said Elsa, sounding clearly exasperated. "You can't just declare that to a guy that you barely know!"
"But Elsa, he's not just some guy!", said an equally exasperated Anna, "He's Hiccup! Y'know... the guy we've been hanging around AND that saved our butts." She stated, in a matter-of-fact voice.
Oh no... she couldn't be talking about... no...
"Still, Anna, you have to be smart about this.", continued Elsa, not backing down. "You can't just declare your 'everlasting love' to a guy just like that. You should know better! Especially in the situation we are!"
"I trust Hiccup.", answered Anna, sounding serious. "He's not that kind of guy. He's sweet, he's smart... he's caring and trusting and yeah... he may be a bit sarcastic and he MAY be a little short but... but I just think that adds to his cuteness, you know?"
No, this can't be happening... Not like this, not her.
"Anna, you can't do this.", And I agreed with Elsa. "You don't even know if Mr. Haddock feels the same way. Haven't you noticed? He already has his eyes on someone. And someone has his eyes on him, too."
I tensed. This conversation... was full of things that I didn't want to hear.
"Even so... if that person doesn't make his move first, I'll do it myself. I'm gonna tell him.", says that... that girl... that girl that I hate so much right now. But why? Why am I getting angry? It's not like I have any right... and yet!
I can hear Elsa say something to Anna but at this point I'm not listening anymore.
Anna is going to confess. Possibly today. Or soon.
This is not the time to be side-tracked by stupid stuff like this. I should focus on finding a way out.
And yet...
And yet...!
I cannot allow this to happen. Not before I have my say! And I'm not even sure if I'm able to say so..! I must keep them apart until I'm ready... yes... but I should also not neglect our search for an escape route. Man, there's so much stuff to do and to keep track off...!
Cursing all the gods I know (which aren't that many), I try to walk into the lobby as innocent-looking as possible as I try to formulate a plan in order to keep Hic away from Anna. Thankfully, the girls don't really mind my presence, instead focusing on glaring at each other. Soon enough, the rest of the guys start filing into the lobby and I find myself looking out for that familiar mop of brown hair.
I have to find him first before Anna does.
However, Nick inadvertently ruined my plans, as he started a discussion that I honestly wasn't paying attention to. I knew subconsciously that I had to pay attention and yet my priorities were completely messed up. So, instead of being responsible, I tuned out the Ultimate Sculptor's words and focused on the lobby's staircase, waiting for the walking fishbone to arrive.
Hiccup's POV
I woke up due to the gurgling of my stomach. Instantly, I remembered where I was. Honestly, I wished I could have stayed asleep for far more longer in order to escape my reality, but my hunger pangs prevented me from accomplishing that. I hadn't eaten anything since our usual breakfast yesterday and it was showing.
Trying to get my mind off my hunger, I checked my ElectroID as Toothless gave me a good morning lick.
It was 6:55 in the morning. I groaned... Guess I did get used to Monobear waking us up at 7 AM on the dot... I woke before even that time! Worse of all... I was awake with a whole day ahead of me... without food.
But thinking like this wasn't helping either. No, I had to remain positive! I had to search for a way out... for all our sakes. So with my growling stomach as a new companion, Toothless and I left the Crummy Room, myself actually shivering due to the nonstop drafts that assailed me all night long. The sooner we got out of here so that I didn't have to sleep on this lousy room, the better.
I didn't see anyone, not even Jack (yes, I was disappointed that he hadn't come to pick me up like he usually did, but I guess the situation we're in doesn't permit that) as I made my way down the stairs. It wasn't until I arrived on the lobby that I saw everyone gathered there.
I could tell without being near them; they we're all hungry. It was subtle, but they all looked less energetic, the bags under their eyes noticeable. Some of them (Rapunzel, Peter and Fishlegs) even wobbled a little as they turned around to see me arrive. The effects of hunger were already showing themselves.
That only motivated me to look for an exit even more. There was no time to fool around.
"Heeeey, Hiiiiic!"
The King of Fooling Around greeted me with a big smile, waving at me excitedly with his hand over his head. Still, though Jack looked the same as always, I could tell he was hungry; he looked even paler than usual and when he stopped waving at me he let his arm drop heavily, as if it were too much effort to keep it up.
Yeah... I had to do it... for him. I had to find a way out.
I greeted the white haired idiot with a smile of my own, and walked towards the group, joining them on their discussion. North nodded as he saw me join, and resumed talking.
"There really is not much I can tell you all that isn't obvious.", said the Ultimate Sculptor, putting a strong front. "We will all search the entire resort and report immediately if something is found. Understood?"
The response from our group to his order could barely be considered enthusiastic, but we all still left the hotel nevertheless. We all understood how important it was to find a way out, so we set out as soon as North dismissed us. I turned around and faced Toothless, taking a deep breath as a way to motivate myself. "Alright, bud. Let's do our best. We're totally gonna find a way out."
Toothless answered my motivational spiel with a croon and a nod. Bounding towards the exit, I followed the enthusiastic Night Fury with a reluctant smile on my face. Let my bud make a serious situation a light-hearted one with his apparently boundless energy.
"Hey, um, Hiccup!"
The voice of Anna stops me from leaving. The Ultimate Hiker runs towards me with an uneasy smile on her face, the rubbing of hands and slight blush and nervous laughter clearly making it apparent that she wanted to discuss something with me, but she wasn't exactly confident about saying it to me.
"I was wondering if... well, you know... it could be dangerous to be outside by yourself so... y'know... safety in numbers and all and...!", she rambled, and I wished she went straight to the point because I didn't know what she wanted. "Hahaha... All I'm saying is... can I accompany you on your search?"
What? That's it? Sweet Mother of Dis, I was wondering if this was going to be a serious conversation! "Of course you can come with me, Anna.". I tell her, trying to reassure her that I didn't mind her company. "I have no issue with you tagging along an-"
"Too bad he already has someone to go with."
Suddenly, I am yanked to the side strongly as I hear the familiar deep voice of Jack, who pulls me to his side and hugs me with one arm. Taking a look at his face, I see he's smiling at Anna, but the way his jaw is clenched... tells me he isn't really happy.
What's going on...? He's been acting REALLY odd lately.
The Ultimate Mystery looks at me, still wearing that fake smile, before asking. "Isn't that right, Hic?"
I can only offer an eloquent "Uh..." as a response. I actually had never talked with him about him being my partner today, but I certainly didn't mind that. But somehow, the way he was acting didn't leave a good taste in my mouth... There was no need to exclude Anna.
"Well, yeah, I guess...", I continued, watching the Ultimate Hiker's expression fall, "But you can come, Anna! There's nothing wrong with a big group!", and as I said that, Jack's grip on my arm got so strong I had to elbow him on the gut slightly. What the hell, man?
"No... it's OK.", said the Anna with an awkward chuckle. "I should probably stay with Elsa, anyway. She doesn't really get along with the others so I can't leave her alone. See ya, Hiccup." And with that, she turned around and walked back towards her sister, who was watching the whole exchange from the couch through narrowed eyes. Great, I was probably back on her black list and it wasn't even my fault. Anna decided to talk to me for Thor knows why, so why do I have to suffer?!
As soon as the Ultimate Hiker left, Jack released me from his hold, letting out sigh before genuinely smiling at me. "Well, Hic... shall we go?"
"No.", I said, as I crossed my arms. "What the Hel was that all about, Jack? We never agreed to partner up today!"
The whitette's smile deflated faster than an air-balloon punctured by a Deathly Nadder's spines, instead being replaced by a nervous grin.
"D-do we even have to agree to be partners, Hic? I mean... do I really have to set an appointment with you everytime I want to hang out?"
"No, not really, it's just...", I counter, unable to shake the feeling that there's something behind Jack's actions that I don't get. "I can't imagine why would you want to hang out with me all the time... Don't you want to hang out with the others?"
"Heh... it's not like any of them trust me that much anymore...", he answers before his expression turns into one of annoyance, "but what the hell, Hic? The only reason I want to be with you is because I like you! You're like, my best friend here!"
Hearing that makes me happy, but also a little sad. It only reminds me of the fact that we will only be friends. But still, I'm glad Jack sees me that way. I've... never had a best friend outside of my bud, as you may recall. "S-seriously... you keep complimenting me like this...", I say with an embarrassed laugh, "you're probably sugarcoating me to ask something out of me..."
"Hahaha... yeaaah, about that..."
I knew it. There WAS an ulterior motive behind he forcing himself on me. No one... could possibly like me enough to want to be with me all the time.
"Is it more love advice, Jack?", I asked, remembering how troubled he was these past days. "Because I don't think I have to remind you that I'm terrible at it."
Jack's face had a blank expression before changing to one of befuddlement. "Wh-wha? How did yo- I mean, no! Hic, c'mon... m-maybe?"
I rolled my eyes. "It wasn't that hard to guess, Jack. I mean... that's why you've been acting so weird, right? You did as I told you, and you went and told the person you liked that you... well, liked them, yeah?". I gulped. Why was I touching this subject? I didn't want to hear it and yet I wanted to know... the answer. Maybe I needed to know what happened so that I could actually get over him? Over this impossible folly that is having a crush on this idiot?
"Wha-? No! I haven't told hi- them! I haven't... actually told them anything yet...", says Jack, looking awfully bashful.
But if he hasn't told him (Jack, your slips of tongue are so obvious), then why was he acting so weird?
I briefly wondered who Jack was interested in and had a weird mix of a shudder and laugh as I pictured Jack and Snotlout for some reason. Eesh...
"You have to tell him, Jack!", I say, a little relieved but not entirely so, "That's the only reasonable tip I can give you, to be honest..."
"Why are we even discussing this?!", says Jack, the blush on his face clearly visible. "I-I just want to hang out, Hic! Nothing more! Really! Maybe we'll talk, yeah, but I have no ulterior motives! No strings attached, the whole Overland Experience!"
I'm not sure about that whole 'no strings attached' thing but... "Despite how tempting it is, I'll pass on the Overland Experience."
"Geez, Hic, do I have to beg to you now or something?", he says, looking a bit hurt.
I bit my lip before replying, feeling a little guilty. "No, Jack, it's not that! It's just... I think it'll be better if we all split up, now that I think about it. We'll cover more ground that way... but we can hang out later, OK?"
The whittete simply pouts and looks to the side with arms crossed, clearly not OK with this. "Alright... fine... but its going to be just us, OK? You still owe me that snowboarding lesson, after all!", he says after a while, the pout replaced by a sly smile and a pointing finger.
"Do you really want to snowboard in a situation like this?", I say with an arched eyebrow. His response is a smile with an arched eyebrow of his own. This guy... is unbelievable.
"I won't take a no for an answer, Hic.", he says, his smile not faltering.
"Aaand I guess I have no choice." I say through narrowed eyes. "Geez, fine. The snowboarding lesson is not guaranteed but yeah, we can do something alone I guess. There won't be much to do, given that we're trapped."
I... I promised that but...
I actually don't want to hang out with Jack. Because he'll probably talk... no, he'll definitely talk about his crush and I don't think I can handle that. Am I selfish for doing this? Am I being a bad friend? Does it make me a terrible person... wanting to avoid things that cause me pain?
Murders and love drama... I never expected my life to become this complicated. I want to... kinda avoid this situation. Am I using "find a way out" as an excuse? Probably.
After saying good bye to Jack with a forced smile, Toothless and I left the hotel and went about in our search.
But...
Even after circling the Grand Square. Even after walking around the Meade Hall... Even after absentmindedly looking around the Slippery Slope and the surrounding forest... Even as I walked past the Final Dead Room and checked out the MiM Library and its surroundings... and even though I thoroughly checked the A/V Room in search for more clues...
And even though I spent most of the day avoiding Jack and thanking Odin for the poor visibility (you can't actually snowboard if the visibility is bad)…
And even though with each step, I could feel my energy leaving me, me getting hungrier with every passing moment, the cold seeping through my bones slowly but surely...
Even then, I found nothing. No exit, no way out. No matter how much I wandered, how much I trekked through the snow...
Nothing.
This whole day... was a waste. No matter how much we searched, nothing of use was found. And the blizzard didn't die down either, and the sun didn't go down. My ElectroID displayed 8 PM but it was still light outside. It was weird. It was unnatural.
And yet, this was my reality. A never-ending blizzard prison where the day never ends, and the only thing that shows that time is passing is the emptiness of my stomach.
With a defeated sigh, Toothless and I returned to the hotel, anxiety swelling inside my chest.
Because I had nothing to show and...
...And because Jack was going to be there. The guy that I spent my entire day avoiding, the guy that I promised I would spend my day with... a promise that I broke...
Still, I had to go and meet up with everyone else. Maybe someone actually found the exit? With that feeble optimism in my heart, I made my way to the hotel's lobby.
That optimism vanished the instant I saw the eyes of everyone in the room as they all turned around to look at me.
Dull, tired eyes, devoid of any hope or enthusiasm. A clear sign of a fruitless endeavor.
And there... over the reception desk, leaning on it while facing me, was Jack, his blue eyes dim and, upon seeing me, filled with hurt.
They didn't have to say anything. Just by looking at them, I could tell; they hadn't found anything.
"Any luck...?", came Rapunzel's voice, almost a whisper, her face carrying a small, hopeful smile.
A smile that disappeared as she saw me shake my head in denial.
Somehow, everyone else's mood fell even more after seeing that.
And our mood was soon going to go on a free fall with no signs of recovering.
Because HE appeared soon after.
"Geez, you guys look terrible!"
The cartoony, fake-worry in his voice was loud and clear in the hotel's lobby. Monobear was looking at us with a tilted head, carefully observing us as if he really cared about us.
Snotlout sneers in response to Monobear's claim. "Of course we look terrible. Why do you think that is?!"
"Man, this is troubling...", said Monobear, not really paying attention to Snotlout's retort. "As a teacher, I'm supposed to look after you guys and yet you look so... unhealthy! Seriously, a soft breeze could probably knock you guys over!"
...We're like this because of you, you insufferable stuffed toy!
Suddenly, the Headmaster pounds his palm with his fist. "Ah! I have an idea!"
"What now?", asks Aster, annoyed, his gray hair disheveled from the rough winds outside.
"I just figured... I should probably give all of you guys some lessons! Yes! Lessons on how to lead a healthy lifestyle! I bet that will make you guys feel better!" said the bear, a giggle escaping his snout.
"Uh... we could lead a healthier lifestyle if ya gave us food, ya know?!", said Merida, her usual spunkiness nowhere to be seen.
"Right, right.", said Monobear, dismissing the redhead's words with his paw. "In any case... the lessons will start tomorrow at 7 AM! I will not tolerate tardiness or absences, by the way! So please try to wake on time, yes? I'll see you all tomorrow at the Great Hall!"
And without waiting for us to object, Monobear disappeared.
"I somehow doubt we'll get an actual lesson from this...", said Fishlegs, looking at the spot where Monobear was standing with worry.
"No shit." muttered Snoutlout, looking grumpier than usual.
"But if this is similar to all of Monobear's threats... then we have no choice." Tooth says, looking smaller than she usually does, her labcoat looking bigger than normal.
"OK, you know what?", says Flynn, standing up faster than I expected. "I'm tired of playing along with that bear. I'm not going to go to his stupid lesson!"
Suddenly, North's towering figure is over the Ultimate Thief, looking extremely intimidating and also extremely angry. "I understand you are frustrated,", begins the Ultimate Sculptor, his voice restrained, "but please do not act so recklessly! Uselessly defying the Headmaster without thinking could put us all in danger, not only you!"
The Ultimate Thief looks at North with a stunned expression before looking away, grunting and whispering under his breath: "Why do you even care...?"
"Because I will not tolerate more throwing of lives. Uselessly throwing away your life is something I will not allow; that goes for Monobear too.", he says as he addresses us all. "Let us all get as much rest as we can and then we will tackle that beast and his trap as best as we can tomorrow. Don't do anything reckless."
"I will keep you as safe as I can, so please trust me, yes?"
North finishes his speech with a broad smile. He still looks tired and yet... and yet he managed to keep a cheery vibe. Even though he's probably as stressed as us, he still looks after us, trying to look strong.
Trust... Should I really do that, in a place where trusting each other can be fatal?
The fact... that I'm thinking like that is probably Monobear's trap. I shouldn't fall for the Mastermind's trap... and I definitely shouldn't distrust North either.
So even though I'm ready to keel over from exhaustion, I try to answer as enthusiastically as I can. Because if North can make that effort... even I, who am not an Ultimate, should be able to do the same. So with a little more hope despite the terrible day we had and how fruitless our search was, I make my way to my room after everyone else leaves the lobby.
...Or I would have done so, if a certain angry looking whitette wasn't glowering at me and blocking my way, his arms crossed and his stance firm. Jack was standing at his full height, and that told me he wasn't going to let me go anywhere without an explanation.
Yeeep. I was dreading this confrontation. Oh boy...
"H-hey there..." I said with a nervous wave of my hand. Jack's only reaction was an arched eyebrow.
"What was that all about, Hic? You totally stood me up!", said the Ultimate Mystery after a few awkward minutes of silence that I spent mostly fidgeting under his gaze, not wanting to meet his probing, blue eyes.
I finally had to look at his face, and what I saw almost made me forget the excuse I had come up with just a few moments ago. I was expecting anger, but instead I saw true hurt. Jack's brow was furrowed and though he wore a slight scowl, I could see how watery his eyes were getting.
Yeah, this was going to be harder than I thought... I couldn't exactly tell him I didn't want to be with him. That would hurt him even more. And it wasn't exactly the truth either... I just didn't want to be with him and his love troubles...
Man, I really sound like a jerk now, huh...
Taking a deep sigh to prepare myself, I try to recall the excuse I had come up with.
"I'm sorry, Jack... it's just-", I began, gesturing wildly like I always do when I get nervous, "I-I just thought... y'know! With how the blizzard is raging and all... the... visibility! Yeah! This kind of weather isn't good for snowboarding lessons! But... I-I didn't want to disappoint you by telling you this so... yeah... I kinda avoided you to not disappoint you, you know...?"
...Honestly, this had to be my worst lie ever.
Which is why it made me feel even guiltier when Jack actually believed me. His hurt expression changed to one of understanding, a sad smile decorating his face as he chuckled at my pathetic excuse.
"Really, Hic? It's so you to worry about nothing.", he says as he gives me a playful push, "I wouldn't have minded, really! I...", his expression darkens a bit as he continues, "I was worried, you know? I thought... I thought something had happened to you..."
Oh... this guy was probably worrying all the time about me and all I cared about was my own issues...
"I'm sorry, Jack.. really I-", but before I can finish, he stops me as he raises one finger in order to shush me.
"It's alright Hic! Really! No harm done, either to you or me! Besides, it was my fault for suggesting the snowboarding thing... I wasn't thinking through...", he says as he laughs at himself.
"Yeah well... I'm still sorry. I shouldn't have avoided you." I offer.
"Don't be, Hic. There's always tomorrow, anyways, right?", he says with a carefree smile that seriously makes me feel incredibly guilty.
"Yeah...", is all I can say with a reluctant smile.
Everything after that was a blur. Whether it was because of the hunger, or because my mind just was in overdrive, I didn't notice when I got into my room.
As I lied down on my cheap sleeping bag, petting Toothless absentmindedly, a single question stood out from all other thoughts in my mind:
"What am I going to do?"
That question referred to everything that was troubling me.
Our current situation.
My crush on Jack.
This Camp's mysteries.
But no matter how much I stared at the dilapidated ceiling of my room, the answer to that question never came. Instead, what greeted me was sleep. And so, with my query unanswered, I drifted into the darkness of unconsciousness, lulled to sleep by the continuous whispers of the drafts that chilled me to the bone as they passed through my room.
-MONOBEAR THEATER-
"Have you ever wondered?"
"Have you ever wondered how many relationships never come to pass?"
"How many unrequited feelings get sidestepped by the uninterested party? How many unsaid feelings are left unsaid due to embarrassment? How many confessions are left untold because of feelings of inadequacy? How many relationships never fully bloom due to societal norms?""Well, I've never wondered! That's why I always get such a nice beauty rest! Worrying over silly stuff like that... is for fools and monkeys! I am a bear after all!"
Hiccup's POV
Hunger.
I've never been so hungry in my life.
It was a horrible, hollow feeling. I felt no energy whatsoever. My head hurt and my limbs refused to move. I felt like I was going to fall every time I took a step and I wasn't sure I was going to be able to get up if I did fall.
But even so, I got up. I woke up before 7 AM in order to get to Monobear's lesson.
On our way there, Toothless and I passed by Aster, who taught us how to use snow as water. We thanked the Ultimate Survivalist as we drank our fill. It did little to satiate our hunger, but at least our thirst was satiated. Aster smiled warmly at our thanks, ruffling my hair as he walked towards the Meade Hall-look alike, and urged us to hurry on "before that lil' bugger starts talkin' our ears off."
Toothless followed the Ultimate Survivalist with a sprint on his step, and I chuckle at that. Guess the easy way to a dragon's heart is through its stomach, after all.
My good mood gets ruined, however, as we enter the Great Hall.
Everyone looks so tired and pale. They seem so out of it that most of them don't even look at me. Peter is actually sitting down near a pillar and the Twins are unusually quiet as they stand around gazing at nothing with glossed-over eyes.
And that's not all I see when I enter.
Thick glass walls can be seen in the middle of the Great Hall, forming a big rectangle. And inside that rectangle, I can see a table stocked with cooking utensils, a fridge and a stove.
Upon seeing that, my stomach makes a loud rumbling noise. Yeah... I can see now why everyone is in such a sour mood. The instant I saw those things, I remembered how hungry I was.
What was Monobear thinking?
I didn't have to wait long to find out. As he always did, the Headmaster appeared inside the rectangle of glass, looking over us from a stool I hadn't noticed behind the table with a gleeful smile. He was wearing a chef's coif and a blue apron with white spots, as if he were a cook.
A sense of dread filled me.
"Oh, looks like everyone is here! What a pity..." said the Headmaster with a disappointed expression
"Welcome, one and all, to Monobear's Healthy Lifestyle Lesson!", he greeted us with enough forced joy that it made me gag. "Today... we'll learn some nice, healthy recipes! After all, a good, healthy life style begins on the kitchen! Or so they say! Don't woooorry! The recipes we'll cover will be to KILL for, Puhuhu!"
"Oh, by the way. I don't appreciate interruptions in my lessons, so if any of you decides to be the class clown", he said with a dangerous glare as he stared at Jack in particular, "I'll activate my punishment time! So sit tight and let's begin our health lifestyleeeee!"
I immediately groaned.
'Healthy Life Lessons"… yeah, right. More like, 'more urging us to kill' shenanigans!
Monobear's supposed lesson was a cooking class. And it was absolutely maddening. These were the worst 15 minutes of my life. I couldn't help but to whimper as I saw the loathsome bear move around the kitchen, cutting up vegetables and seasoning the ingredients as he went over a simple chicken noodle soup recipe.
I wasn't the only one.
I could hear the symphony of gurgling stomachs and soft gasps as the delicious smell of the broth Monobear was cooking wafted all over us. I had to continuously soothe Toothless as he tried to walk over towards the Headmaster. Those 15 minutes felt like endless torture and I honestly never felt so relieved that classes had ended. I used to love school in Berk too...
"And that's how you make chicken soup for the despairing soul~", finished Monobear gleefuly. "So, how about it? Do you feel healthier and refreshed already?"
"Stop. Please, stop this.", cried Tooth, tears actually streaming from her face as she fell defeated to the floor.
"Please, man... don't do this to us. Just...! Let us go... please...", begged Snotlout.
"Hrmm! But I can't let you do that unless-", began the Headmaster but Snotlout interrupted him.
"Please! I'll do anything! I'll kill anyone! But please... please let me out from this hell!"
As soon as his words left his lips, a blur of movement catches my attention. Almost instantly, Toothless is curling defensively around me, Jack standing next to me with a ridiculously open stance. However, I appreciate the fact that he's worried about me... more than he'll ever know, probably.
"Snotlout! Do not fall for the beast's trap!", says North standing tall, but the Ultimate Heavy Lifter doesn't back down, panic clear in his eyes.
"Leave me alone, man! I've fucking had it! I'm hungry and tired and scared and I can't take this anymore!", his eyes scan the whole room like a mad animal. "A-and if I have to kill someone to make this stop I will do it! You hear me?! I'll fucking kill you!"
'But Snotlout... you can't do that!", shouted Rapunzel, looking scared. "If you do, Astrid's and Sandy's deaths will-"
"WHAT DO YOU WANT ME TO DO, THEN?!", shouts Snotlout as he closes his eyes tight and clenches his fists. "DO YOU WANT ME TO DIE HERE?! TO JUST... SIT HERE AND STARVE?!"
I understand how he feels. I understand how scary and utterly hopeless our situation looks. But even so, I...
"I'd... rather have that happen to us."
Everyone looks at me with wide eyes as they hear my mumbling. Feeling more resolute than ever, I face the Ultimate Heavy Lifter's shocked face with a firm expression.
"I'd rather... die here trusting everyone, than survive by distrusting any of you." I turn to face the Headmaster, who is looking at me with a blank expression. "That's why... for Sandy's and Astrid's sake... That's why I'll keep fighting you. I will not succumb to your despair. And if that means starving right here, then that's what I'll do."
I truly believe that. I never want to dirty my hands with other people's blood, directly or indirectly. And these guys... are my friends. Even if we forgot, we were friends in the past. That's why... I'll never betray them.
"Hmph. That's cool and all, Hiccy, buuuut... I wonder...", says Monobear as he turns his back to us, sounding pensive. "Will that resolution hold for another day? I can't wait what will happen in tomorrow's Healthy Lifestyle Lesson... Upupupu..."
Monobear's trailing laughter as he disappears almost destroys my resolution. But I have to believe. I have to believe that everyone will endure another day. But even though I truly want to believe in them, worry manages to surface in my mind in a single sentence:
We need to find that exit before its too late.
We're not going to last any longer. And though I really meant what I said, I'd rather all of us leave here alive.
So without saying much to each other, we all dispersed for the day.
This time... maybe this time for sure... we will find a way out.
As I walked around in search for an escape route, I wandered into the clearing that housed the Final Dead Room. Still deciding to avoid the obvious death trap that the room was, I made to leave before movement near the door of that room caught my attention.
Leaning on the wall next to the door was the familiar, tall, frame of the Ultimate Survivalist, Aster.
And just like before, he was painting eggs. Aster was completely entranced, his focus on the egg so absolute he didn't notice my or Toothless' presence.
I observed him for a few minutes as he colored the egg with a blue hue and pink dots before my curiosity got the best of me and, hesitating a bit, I called out to him.
Aster actually jumped, his eyes wide as plates, at my greeting, but upon seeing it was me, he relaxed, a grumpy expression clear on his face.
"Gee, ankle-biter, don't scare me like 'tat!"
I chuckled a bit at that, which only made Aster huff, annoyed. I apologized, though and upon hearing that, the silver-haired teen went back to painting.
"I didn't... uh, peg you for the artist type.", I commented, trying to strike up conversation.
The Ultimate Survivalist looked up at my comment, a blank expression as he processed what I said before chuckling. "Nah, I ain't no artist. Didn't I tell ya already? This is my way to cope."
Oh, yeah. He DID tell me that. However, I still... find this odd. Aster is the Ultimate Survivalist and yet it seems like...
"I... just don't get it...", I begin, which makes Aster look at me again. "I... I'd thought you wouldn't waste food due to you being, well, you know... The Ultimate Survivalist. And yet... here we have you wasting a... uh, perfectly good egg..."
Or well, that's how it looked like to me. Who was I to criticise? Looks like I ran my mouth again before thinking...
Aster looks at me with narrowed eyes before he stores his paint brush on a pouch on his hip. "I get your concern, kiddo. And ya would be correct, if these were entire eggs, but they aren't."
Huh?
Aster looks at my confused expression before smirking and pocketing the already painted egg on his other pouch. "These are just the egg shells, kid. I emptied 'em beforehand. Like, do ya honestly think I would have starved myself by painting these instead of eatin' 'em?", the Ultimate Survivalist rolls his eyes. "Hangin' around with Frostbite is makin' ya dumber."
I blush at how obvious his explanation sounds. Right. Silly Haddock.
"W-well... at least it's nice to know that you, uh, have your priorities straight," I joke, trying to laugh away my dumb assumption turned into mistake, "its just... that, you know... painting eggs is such an odd hobby. Especially in this situation..."
Aster's expression turned serious and I actually winced. He looked as if he could kill a bear right now and me being smaller than a bear... yeah, I was intimidated.
"This is not a hobby, kid." He started. "I guess I can see how you would think that but... it's important to me." Aster's gaze softens as he seems to recall something, and he continues speaking. "It's true, we have somethin' to be doin' right now that is important. But... we cannot let that be the only thing that is in our minds. If we just focus on the things we think are important, we'll miss the things that truly matter."
I blinked. I see... I kinda understand what he means. He's sayin'... saying... that we shouldn't just focus on our goals. We should also take time to do other things, dedicate time to ourselves... "So, that's why you paint eggs?"
The Ultimate Survivalist nods. "Yea'... it keeps my mind clear. I mean... if I didn't do this... I'd be too stressed to focus and I wouldn't think clearly..." he nods to himself as he talks, "and I'd definitely would have less chances for survival if I weren't thinkin' straight... or at least, that's how they put it."
I nod at his words. It made sense now, and I agreed. Being to stressed definitely leads to bad decisions. Who would've thought relaxing was also an important skill to have to survive? I feel like I've been underestimating Aster's talent now...
"Sorry, for... uh, jumping to conclusions, Aster..."
The Ultimate Survivalist looks at me with surprise before ruffling my hair affectionately. "No harm done, ankle-biter. Imparting life lessons to tykes is one of the few things I'm good at."
At that, I pout. "Hey... I'm not THAT young..."
But to be honest... I'm not bothered by the treatment. Aster just... gives this big brother aura... is it weird of me to think this way?
Aster laughs at my comment before he walks away, deciding to return to his search. As I watch his retreating figure, I begin to realize that there's more to Aster than his intimidating demeanor, wild silver-haired mane adorned with feathers, and his tattooed and scarred exterior. Inside, I'm sure... is a softer, caring and wise side... one I'm glad I go to witness, if only for a bit.
As I turn away to explore more, however, I realize something.
Something that Aster said that bothered me, even though it was something small. He said "they said so"... but who are they? Mentors?
Deciding to focus on my task for now, and saving this topic for later, I quickly made my way out of the clearing.
By the time my ElectroID buzzes 10 PM, I can't take another step. I've searched the whole area and all the installations thrice by now. I even debated trying to climb down the cliff, but a similarly tired Anna I found near the cliff with Elsa advised me against the idea. And if an Ultimate Hiker said it was impossible... then there was no way a talentless fishbone like me was going to be able to climb down.
And so, defeated, tired, cold and hungry, I made my way to my room.
It felt as if I were in a trance. I kept walking and walking, not really noticing my surroundings. The only thing that made me feel anchored to reality was Toothless, who was looking worse for wear. He spaced out a lot and yet he never left me off his sight. Even when we made our way to our room and we struggled climbing the stairs all the way to the fourth floor, he helped me pick myself up whenever I stumbled on a step.
Even though he was probably cold in our drafty, crummy room, he curled himself around me protectively.
I give my bud a hug, trying to tell him without words how much I appreciate him. Without him, this whole thing would be more harrowing. And it is for his sake... that I will not give up.
Because even someone as useless as me has things to do still. I can't die here. I cannot let my bud suffer here.
And... I cannot die without saying the things that need to be said.
It's weird. It takes a near-death experience to make people realize things, it seems. I've been avoiding Jack ever since he revealed he had a crush on someone, but now, now I crave his company because... now that I'm here, near death's door...
I need to let him know.
If he was brave enough to tell me about his crush... then I should at least do the same. It's only fair, right?
I don't want my life to be filled with what-ifs. I want to lead a life full of confidence. One that I can say: "I'm proud I've lived like this".
Mostly, I want to feel proud of myself, just like my parents did.
That's why... even if I know its futile and even if I know that he will not reciprocate... I will tell him.
I will tell all the people I love how important they are to me.
And after giving Toothless another hug (which he returns with a lick of his own), I try to fall asleep, trying my best to ignore the roaring in my stomach.
-MONOBEAR THEATER-
"Honestly, selflessness is unnatural."
"It shouldn't exist."
"People who put others before themselves are idiots and deserve to be stepped on. Because... because the foundation of our world goes against that! They even have the basics wrong! In our world, the weak are eaten by the strong. The weak don't help the strong; no no, they are instead sacrificed so the world can progress!"
"Our whole society is built on selfishness! Which is why I'll never understand selflessness and acts of kindness between you humans!"
This has been a Monobear Theater of Bear Wisdom!"
And that's all he wrote. Well, not really. I have more written but as I said, its not completely done and I'd rather you guys have a chapter now than never. Still, the next one should be up soon. So, without anything more to say, see ya later guys!