Chapter 1
"Conflicts of the Heart"
Hiccup
Hiccup woke and shivered despite the thick bear pelt atop him. The bedroom around him was dimly lit by the first few faint golden rays of sunlight that seeped in through the window. He pushed himself up and propped his back up against the hard-oak headboard. It was cold, so cold his breath frosted out in front of him.
Hiccup tugged at his fur cover and created a small cocoon around himself. Warmth slowly radiated into him. However, as the cold receded, he gradually became aware of a dull pain that pressed up against his forehead. He let out a heavy sigh and began to massage his temples to fend off the headache. The effort was met with only marginal success.
Two days.
The thought came unbidden and unwanted. He tried to push the thought out of his mind but the harder he tried the deeper it took root. A familiar anxiety settled over him and knotted his stomach. The final trial was only two days away. The prospect filled him with a dread and proved a constant source of stress.
Hiccup had spent the last span of days debating what to do to this effect. He had devised a great number of plans all with various degrees of feasibility. However, all were essentially extensions or variations on the same two options.
The first and simpler of the two options was to fight and kill the Monstrous Nightmare. This would not only mean he'd be recognised as a full member of Clan Hooligan but that he had graduate top of his class. That title whilst predominately empty did earn him first pick at the Velija.
The Velija was a ceremony all new initiates took part in. The purpose of which was to select the role they wished to fulfil in Berk society. However, whilst there was a variety of choice, from farmer to soldier, tanner to tailor. Naturally certain professions were more sort after than others and with limited availability the ability to choose first was a real advantage.
Unfortunately, this option would also require abandoning all sense of morality. He knew better and couldn't pretend otherwise. That Nightmare was innocent, or at least as innocent as anyone could be in such harsh times. The true evil dwelt within the nest and the murder of this dragon would achieve nothing.
The second and significantly more complicated option was to tell his father the truth. He would need to come clean about everything, dragon training, Toothless, the woods. Then hope beyond hope that they believed him and saw the truth of things.
The risks were obvious, they could kill Toothless. Hell, they might kill him. He had broken all the core tenants of Vikingdom and clan Hooligan were not a forgiving people.
"Hiccup" his father's beckoned from downstairs.
The sound pulled him out of thought and back into the cold room.
"yes, father" Hiccup replied and slipped out of bed.
He scampered down to the chest located at the base of his bed and pulled out his day's cloths. A pair of seal skin boots, brown leather trousers, and a grass green tunic. Finally, he strapped on his belt and retrieved his dagger. The sheath hung lit on his hip.
The weapon was an inoffensive piece of steal. In fact, the only feature worthy of note was the runes tapped into the side of the blade. The lettering was half faded with time and wear, but the name could still be deciphered, Valka.
Hiccup quickly made his way over to the wash basin in the corner of the room. A buffed piece of steal was mounted on the wall above it and revealed his reflection. He cupped his hands and splashed water into his face. The frigid water did wonders for yesterday's grime but did little for the heavy bags underneath his eyes.
He let out another heavy sigh and walked downstairs into the main living space. The house was relatively large in comparison to the rest of the town. The interior felt even larger due to the lack of furnishings. A few wooden chests and draws lined the parameter of the room with a couple of shelves on the walls. Stoic had never seen the sense in decorating. Especially, since the average house was burnt down once a year.
The hearth fire was located at the centre of the room with two chairs around its edge. A spit was set up across the fire and two Haddocks sizzled lightly. The smell of fish filled the room and made Hiccup's stomach groan. Stoic was sat in one of the two chairs and had already began to break his fast.
"Good morning was there something you wanted" Hiccup asked as he took the other chair by the fire.
"eat first, we dragon slayers need our strength" his father replied, getting up to retrieve Hiccup a platter and fork from a nearby shelf.
It took a conscious effort on Hiccup part not to cringe at the remark. Unfortunately, a side effect of his newfound 'prowess' in the fighting pit was that his father had taken it upon himself to drop little 'nuggets' of wisdom on him like this. Whilst it was probably well intended it made Hiccup feel extremely uncomfortable.
The comments only highlighted all the lies he'd had to weave to hide the truth. He worried eventually some inconsistency in his story would catch him out. That they'd discover his secret and kill him for it.
"I'll be going down to the pit later, you will join me" Stoic stated as if were fact.
"I would but unfortunately I'm pretty busy today" Hiccup replied, awkwardly.
He had attended two sessions with Stoic in the pit and was not in a hurry for another. Humiliating was the most accurate description of the experience. All Stoic wished to do was fight, sword, axes, hammer you name it.
However, this wasn't exactly Hiccup's strong suit and every mistake, of which there were many, were met with hard looks and barbed comments. Stoic's thoughts weren't difficult to discern. Why can't he raise a sword? How did he graduate top of the class?
"you have work with Gobber?" his father asked with an arched eyebrow.
"No" he said eyes cast to the floor.
"the woods" Stoic said knowingly.
Hiccup nodded his head in confirmation and took a fish off the skewer. The room lapsed into an awkward silence as they both ate. This was more like the dynamic he was used too, tense silences normally punctuated by harsh comments.
"Right, well I should probably get going" Stoic said and stood up.
The large man moved to put his plater away on a nearby shelf then walked over to the front door and left. Hiccup finished off his fish and took the remaining one off the fire. He ate as he collected his sheep skin coat off the peg next to the stairs. Finally, he walked over to the front door and made his way outside too.
Hiccup stood framed in the doorway. The cold wind whipped at his face and the little warmth he had soaked in from the fire was blown away. He closed the door behind him and wrapped his arms around himself in an attempt to ward off the cold. Winter had begun to bare its teeth and the snow blanket covered the entire town.
The sun was still low in the east and the glare from the white snow blinded him momentarily. Hiccup shaded his eyes with a spare hand and looked down onto the town. He had a great vantage point from the crest of the hill. All over men and women had already begun the day's chores, whether that be shovelling snow, chopping wood, or herding livestock. The harsh metallic cling of iron striking iron could also be heard off in the distance. Gobber's forge no doubt. The smithy was easy to spot given the constant stream of black sooty smoke that stood in stark contrast to the fresh whatness of the snow.
Hiccup wanted to go for a walk through the docks. He loved to look at the many types of fish and eels and aquatic life. But he couldn't face the town, not today. The success he experienced in the fighting pit had been shortly followed by his ascension along the social ladder. Fans now swooned over him and he could never get a moment of peace.
At first, he had enjoyed the attention. He had spent years yearning to be included. But the novelty had soon worn thin. The spotlight had proved both a blessing and a curse. He couldn't help but feel that they were all waiting for him to fail. It didn't help that these were the same people that less than a year ago dispraised him.
Hiccup turned for the forest that boarded the town and trudged through the snow into the treeline. The pine trees hadn't yet shed their leaves and the canopy provided some protection from the elements. He wound his way through the forest heading away from the town. The low-lying heather swallowed his boots and came up to his shines.
"I'm not you father and I never will be you" he muttered, resentment and frustration prominent in every syllable.
The anger bubbled in him and he swung his fist at a nearby branch, well, twig really. However, the twig refused to break and instead pinged back and slapped him accross the face. He felt his cheeks burn a little from the impact. Hiccup raised a hand to inspect the area of contact. A small smear of crimson emerged on his thumb.
"Urrrgh" he groaned.
The whole situation was so hopelessly unfair. Hiccup had everything he had ever wanted since he was old enough to want anything, respect, recognition and acceptance. He should be happy, but he wasn't.
Hiccup walked for a long while trapped in his own circular thoughts that lead nowhere productive. He finally came to a halt in the centre of a grassy clearing. The glade was littered with large smooth boulders, that jutting out the snowy grass like small islands. It was beautiful and he wondered how he had never stumbled on this place before.
Hiccup clambered onto one of the largest boulders and sat down crossed legged. Fortunately, the sun's rays had melted the snow-covered caps of each boulder and the seat was relatively dry. For a long time, he just sat and listened to the sounds of the forest. The birds sang, leaves rustled, and pines creaked. The sounds calmed him and smoothed his sharp thoughts.
"what brings a stranger to my glade?" came a thin voice from behind him.
The suddenness and closeness made him jump with surprise and instinctually he turned around. An old woman stood right behind him. She wore a brown shift that came down to her ankles. The garment was clearly well worn and there were dirt stains up to the knee. A thread bare cloak hung from her thin shoulders and obscured the upper half of her face. The effect was fairly ominous.
The woman carried a wicker basket in one hand and a walking stick in the other. The walking stick caught his attention. It was fashioned from a dark wood and had a blood red stone embedded in the pommel. The princely piece looked out of place on someone so shabby.
"your glade... who are you?" Hiccup asked curiously.
He jumped down from where he was sat and closed the distance between them to only a few feet. The woman removed her hood and revealed a set of milky white eyes set in a weather worn face. She had grey curly hair that came down to shoulders and thin cracked lips. Hiccup didn't recognise her which was strange.
Berk never received visitors and traders rarely came through given the constant risk of dragon attacks. The result was that the community was very close knit, and a new face was infrequent occurrence.
"tut, tut, tut… forgotten so easily is little old Agathar" she tutted scornfully.
"Agathar" Hiccup muttered.
He chewed the name over as if it were a piece of gristle stuck in his teeth. The name was familiar, but he couldn't place it. Then it came to him. He had heard talk of an Agathar a span ago in the great hall. Egor had been deep in his cups and had rambled on about a woman in the woods who meddled with witchcraft.
Hiccup had dismissed it at the time a drunk's ravings. Vikings were a suppositious bunch and anything people didn't understand was declared as witchcraft.
"Come closer, let me see you" she asked, holding out a frail hand.
Hiccup took a rather reluctant step towards the old woman. Egor was a drunkard but even the prospect of witchcraft was not to be taken lightly. He was less than a stride away from her when she suddenly reached out and grabbed his hands. Agathar's leathery hands worked methodically over his own.
"these are a boy's hands" she muttered, not unkindly.
Agathar's hands moved onto his face, gently brushing over his eyes, nose, mouth and checks. A warm smile slowly crept onto her face. She muttered under her breath, but Hiccup couldn't hear her. Finally, finished she took a step away and made a small bow.
"It's nice to see you again… Hiccup" she said after a short pause.
"Again?" he asked, confused.
Hiccup was certain he had never met this old woman before. He would remember someone like her. However, she was old and perhaps time had addled her wits. No, that couldn't account for the fact she had recognised him. Hiccup's thoughts slowly turned to witchcraft. No, that was foolish.
"yes boy… these hands never forget a face" She said.
A smile tugged at the corners of her mouth. Hiccup waited for her to continue but she didn't. Instead, she turned around and began to shuffle away leaving Hiccup confused and filled to the brim with questions.
"will you lend an old woman the strength of your arm" she said after only a couple of steps.
Hiccup didn't think he had all that much strength to lend but followed anyway. He fell into step beside her, and she handed him the wicker basket. The contents were obscured by a piece undyed rough spun.
Agathar lead the way despite her lack of sight. She weaved in and out of trees and made a few deliberate turns that took them further down into a small valley. The direction confused Hiccup as there was nothing on this side of the island. However, he made a mental note that the heather underfoot resembled the faint signs of a trail.
"how do you know me?" Hiccup asked, no longer able to contain the tirade of questions.
"Your father brought you to me" Agathar replied simply.
"my father… what did he want?" Hiccup asked, taken back.
That was strange Stoic had never mentioned Agathar. He had no memory of the event so it must have been a long while ago. But why would he have brought a young child to meet her? Agathar took in a short breath then let it out in a slow sigh then said
"answers"
Hiccup waited a long moment for Agathar to elaborate but she didn't. He sensed there was more to it but didn't push any further. The woman's face had soured, and a tension had crept into the air. Instead, he settled his curiosity on the wicker basket in his hand.
He pulled back the cloth to reveal a bed full of mushrooms. There were perhaps a dozen different kinds of all shapes and sizes. The short brown ones with large bulbous heads he recognised as edible. However, the most intriguing one's possessed long white stems with red heads that were spotted with yellow pimples.
"I wouldn't if I were you, one touch will put you into an endless sleep" Agathar interjected.
Hiccup recoiled his offhand which was poised just above said mushroom. He looked at the cargo with a newfound sense of respect. Idly he wondered how Agathar had picked them if one touch was death.
"How did you know I was going to…" Hiccup asked, suspiciously.
"a young mind isn't hard to anticipate, and danger has a certain attraction to it" She said in a knowing tone.
There was truth in that, Hiccup thought. He loved to spend time with Toothless despite the undeniable danger.
"If there so dangerous, why do you have them?" Hiccup asked, curiously.
"I'm categorising the fascinating things. So far, I've found over fifty different kinds, all with their own unique properties" Agathar replied, enthusiastically.
"why?" asked Hiccup.
Hiccup understood better than most the pull of fascination. However, the categorisation of something as mundane as Mushrooms held little interest for him. That said, what could compare to Dragons.
"curiosity, lord knows someone needs some around here. There's precious little in the natives" she snorted.
He found the later part of that strange. Agathar spoke as if she were an outsider or new to Berk. Yet Hiccup had heard stories of Agathar that placed her as far back as his grandfather time.
"it's not much further" Agathar continued after a short pause.
The two emerged into another clearing. This one was smaller than the one before only perhaps a hundred yards in diameter. Agathar's house was situated in the middle atop a large pyre of earth which raised the house nearly ten foot in elevation.
The mound itself was fortified by a small dyke that run around the base of the mound. In addition, pointed wooden stakes had been erected and faced outward. However, it was obvious the fortifications were old and ill maintained. All the stakes were rotted or consumed by moss to some degree and the dyke had grassed over.
"I've never seen anything like it" Hiccup said in awe as they approached.
He wasn't sure what he had expected but whatever it was, it wasn't this. Hiccup followed Agthar between two stakes and up a wooden flight of stairs that led up the pyre to the front door.
The house was built from pine and was fashioned in the local style. However, that was where the similarities ended. Agathar's home encased a giant tree. The tree's thick black trunk loomed out of the centre of the structure, the crimson leaves provided a natural roof. Branches protruded out the exterior walls and enveloped the house provided a sort of living protection.
"It's called Cinder tree, it's originates from the far east" Agathar said as she pushed open the wooden door.
The interior of her home proved just as interesting. The most noticeable feature was of course the tree that ascended through the room. However, on closer inspection he saw the black tree was covered in a lattice of thin white veins.
Hiccup followed Agathar through her home. The branches acted like walls and divided the room into two halves, before they exited out gaps in the walls. He was amazed with her vast collection of tomes and scrolls. Shelves lined the walls, and they were all heavily laden with books. Agathar probably had more information in one room than the entire archipelago combined.
Vibrant green plants were placed in ceramic pots around the room's parameter. On one side of the room stood a large wooden desk. Vials stood arranged in metal racks filled with various concoctions. An assortment of jars was clustered in one corner, all contained mushrooms in various states of decay.
Agathar motioned him to put the basket down. Hiccup carefully cleared a space on the desk and set the wicker basket down. The old woman continued to shuffle over to a cabinet mounted on the wall and began to sort through a variety of small bottles.
"your cheek…" she muttered, more to herself than anyone else.
The comment confused him for a second then he remembered the small cut he had received from the branch. He raised a hand to on reflex to inspect the wound, but it had already dried and scabbed over.
"it's fine really…" Hiccup protested.
Agathar ignored him and continued to sort through the small cabinet. She worked methodically and took out each bottle in turn and ran it over in her hands. She shook her head after each one and placed them on a nearby surface. Eventually, Agathar came to a small tin and gave a faint nod.
"here it is" she said with satisfaction.
Agathar opened the tin to reveal an opaque salve. Hiccup thought he recognised the tincture. Stoic had bought something similar from the apothecary that lived down by the docks. He had smeared the solution on flesh wounds to reduce scaring.
"honestly there's no need its already scabbed over" Hiccup tired.
"It's no trouble, you can call it payment for carrying my basket" Agathar said, as she gathered a generous glob on her forefinger.
Agathar beckoned Hiccup closer and smeared the salve over his affected cheek. The solution felt cool and oily against his skin.
"Are you an apothecary?" asked Hiccup.
"I guess you could say that, among other things" Agathar said, as she returned the small tin to the cabinet.
"Is that why my father came to you?" Hiccup asked, his curiosity finally getting the better of him.
She stopped for half a heartbeat then carried on with what she was doing. Agathar's avoidance and Stoic silence on the matter had only piqued his interest. Like oil to a flame. He felt like this was important.
"your father… your father… wanted the impossible" She said finally.
The memory clearly didn't evoke any fond feelings. Silence swelled between them and Hiccup took it as his cue to leave. He felt bad to leave on a sour note, but he didn't know what he could say to salvage the situation. He walked over to the door.
"There's a great weight on your shoulders" Agathar stated before he reached the door.
Hiccup stopped in his tracks and turned to face her. He wasn't sure what to make of the comment. She didn't and couldn't have known about Toothless. However, he still felt his mental guard raise.
"yes" he said cautiously.
"A choice is upon you" she continued.
"yes" Hiccup agreed and felt the hair on the back of his neck stand on end.
"House Haddock has been kind to me. I would be remised if I didn't offer you that same kindness in return. I can offer you a glimpse into your future maybe that will ease the weight perched upon you" Agathar said seriously.
At first, he wasn't sure what to make of the offer. This was magic and everybody knew magic was dangerous. But then his thoughts turned to the final trial. It could be extremely useful to know how the next couple of days would unfold. What if the next few days were a disaster? he thought. No, even if it was disaster at least he could plan and prepare. He could make sure Toothless was safe.
"Could you tell me what will happen in the next few days" he asked hopefully.
"Perhaps… I cannot tell what you will learn" she replied.
The response did little for Hiccups nerves. Hiccup felt torn as his curiosity battled with his caution. He had never heard a kind word in regard to Agathar, surely that said something of her character. Then again until recently there were probably no kind words said about him.
"Yes, I would like to know" he finally agreed.
The old woman shuffled over to the cot in the corner of the room and took a seat. She motioned for him to sit opposite her. Hiccup took a small wooden stall from the work bench and sat down.
"I need a drop of blood" she stated and pulled out a small pin.
Doubt tugged at him and his conviction wavered for a moment. Hiccup steeled himself and took the pin obediently. He pricked his thumb and a small droplet of crimson welled up to the surface. It didn't hurt.
"Here" he said holding out the pin.
Hiccup guided Agathar leathery hands to the pin. She grasped the tiny piece of steel and brought it to her mouth. Agathar sucked at the pin her eyes closed and eyebrows knitted. The experience was profoundly uncomfortable. This felt wrong. He was about to protest when she began to speak.
"You will never sit your fathers' throne, nor will you ever lead the clan Holligan. The path you tread will take you far from here. A man will return forged in the embers of war with an army at his back. You will love and will lose for it is the destiny of all close to you to die"
Agathar opened her eyes and slumped where she sat. A thin layer of perspiration layered her pale skin and she breathed heavily. Hiccup had no words. He had long passed through discomfort and ascended into full on unadulterated fear.
"I hope that helpful. Now go I need to rest" she said weakly and laid her head down onto the pillow.
Hiccup just sat there dumbfounded. Agathar's word echoed round his head. This was a mistake, it had all been a mistake. He got to his feet and felt dizzy. Hiccup reached out to steady himself on a piece of furniture. The dizziness faded and he made his way over to the door.
Hiccup descended the wooden stairs so quickly he almost tripped. He weaved through the stakes and bolted out of the glade. Faster and faster, he ran. Gradually, his pace slowed as fatigue gripped his body. Finally, he was down to a walk his heart pounded and his breath ragged.
However, he couldn't escape Agathar's words. For it is the destiny of all close to you to die he thought. Did that refer to Toothless? Hiccup's thoughts darkened and explored unpleasant places. These thoughts didn't improve his mood.
The trees began to thin around him and made way to long grass. He could hear the lethargic swell of the ocean which told him he was close to the coast. Hiccup followed the sound and soon recognised the location. This was the place where he had learnt to fly with Toothless. He had fond memories here.
The wind so close to the cliffs was ferocious and whipped at his hair. Hiccup walked over to the edge and sat down, his legs dangled over the precipice. A year ago, the prospect would have terrified him. However, since he had met Toothless heights no longer frightened him. He looked down and saw the sea crash and churn on the rocks below, then out across the ocean, at this hight he could see for perhaps a hundred leagues.
Hiccup felt cold tears trickle down his face. Why did this have to happen to him? It wasn't fair. All he needed was time but that was the one thing he no longer had. Two days, the knowledge hung round his neck like a noose. Finally, he couldn't hold it back any longer. He held his head in his hands and cried for all he was worth.
Eventually, his mind settled on the swell of the ocean. The sound washed over him and calmed him. Hiccup felt better. Nothing had changed of course but he felt a little less overwhelmed. A low distant rumble pulled his eyes up and out to sea.
Dark plumes of cloud sat off to the west. A storm was on the way sure as day, winter was infamous for them. This one looked particularly large.
"So, this is where you've been hiding, I've been looking for you all day" came a faint voice from behind him.
Hiccup glanced around and saw Astrid. He quickly wiped his eyes and tried to look casual. The result was a profoundly awkward. Astrid took a seat beside him and gave him a friendly smile. She was dressed in her casual attire, a crimson metal studded skirt, tightly fitted blue blouse with metal fittings in the shoulders, and cotton arm wraps.
Hiccup tried to think of something clever or funny to say but his usual silver tongue had turned to lead. Astrid's presence always seemed to be proceeded by a departure of his intellect. The effect was most frustrating.
"Hello" he said at a loss of anything else to say.
"you are not an easy man to find. I check the docks, I checked the forge, I checked the creek. Nothing." She said in exaggerated exasperation.
"sorry" he said with an apologetic smile.
"so, where have you been?" Astrid asked more earnestly.
"I was with Agathar" Hiccup said rather reluctantly.
He didn't want to re-live the encounter again. Astrid's face was uncharacteristically blank, then realisation dawned on her.
"wait not the woods witch Agathar?" She asked seriously.
"yeah, that one" he replied.
"Black hands Hiccup why would you want to be anywhere near that woman. She is trouble, they say she deals with unnatural forces" Astrid said the last part no louder than a whisper.
Hiccup thought he detected the faintest flicker of fear in her voice as if Agathar might over them. Fear wasn't an emotion he associated with Astrid, it unnerved him that she was this afraid of this woman. This was the girl who hadn't even blinked twice in dragon training.
"don't worry I wasn't with her long" he said reassuringly.
Astrid didn't look convinced but didn't press him further. Hiccup instead decided to push the conversation into safer waters.
"how's your mothers stall doing" he asked easily.
"it's going… we are close to finishing a set of sails for a small fishing skiff." She replied tactfully.
"the final trial?" she continued after a short pause.
The question had such a weight to it that his shoulders sagged under the strain. The knot of anxiety tugged in his stomach.
"the final trial" he muttered lost in his own thoughts.
"what are you going to do?" she asked, her tone carefully neutral.
"Well, you know I'm just overwhelmed with my options. I can be honest… and probably die for it. Or I can put aside everything I believe in." He said with more than a hint of sarcasm.
"The worlds your oyster then" Astrid responded playfully.
"I know you've broken a few laws, but your father wouldn't hang you for it" she continued more serious.
However, Hiccup detected a note of uncertainty. He didn't doubt for moment he would be straight to the gallows. Stoic had never been particularly fond of him the elder council had at least one bone to pick with him.
"I'm sure your right" He lied.
"how are you?" she asked almost tenderly.
Hiccup was tempted to lie and tell her he was fine. That's would have been easy.
However, a second look into those large sapphire blue eyes disarmed his mental defences. He then realised he needed to tell someone the truth.
"I'm scared" he admitted finally.
It felt good to say it out loud. Astrid gave him a long significant look then put her arm around him. Hiccup body tensed at her touch. He felt the warmth of her arm radiate through his shirt. Gradually, he began to relax into her embrace and wished to stay trapped in that one moment. That one perfect moment.
"you'll find a way through this I know you will" she said kindly.
Hiccup didn't share that same belief but he grateful for the comment. Astrid was the only person in the whole world who knew his secret. She knew the truth, and still she accepted him.
"thank you" Hiccup said, honestly.
"for what?" Astrid replied.
"For being here, for listening, for not thinking I'm crazy" he said shyly.
Hiccup felt blood rush to his cheeks in embarrassment. He had never been so forward with her before.
"I never said that. I still think you're crazy, but I think Berk could use a little more crazy" she said with a small wry smile
The two sat for a long while and talked the day away. However, time and tide wait for no man and eventually Astrid had to leave.
"I need to get back my mum will be expecting me at the shop" Astrid said apologetically.
"ok, I'm going to stay a bit longer I'll see you at the Gift" Hiccup replied.
The Gift was the evening meal that was hosted in Ragnar's mead hall. Astrid bid him farewell and disappeared into the woods. Hiccup smiled to himself and stared at the piece of forest she had disappeared into. He enjoyed her company.
The hour was late and off in the distance the sun had just began to touch the horizon. Reds, oranges, and yellows flashed brilliantly across the sky. The scene was beautiful. An excitement boiled up from within Hiccup's chest. It was time.
Hiccup got to his feet and began to make his way to the Creek. He took an indirect route and double-backed on himself twice. Astrid had found Toothless through his own carelessness. He was lucky to have convinced her of the truth about him. However, that kind of luck didn't strike twice.
Hiccup spotted his old shield that marked the entrance to the sunken Creek. The red and blue paint that decorated it surface stood out in contrast to the greens, browns, and blacks of the forest. He got onto his hands and knees and crawled under the gap below the shield and then squeezed himself between the two opposing boulders.
The hidden creek revealed itself ten foot below him. Hiccup's vantage point offered a good view of the entire sunken space. A large pond lazed in one corner and a lonely tree stood at its parameter. Toothless hung like a bat from one of the branches, he knew that meant the dragon was asleep.
Hiccup made his way down the drop, his hands finding familiar holds, despite the fading light. Toothless's ears pricked up like a cat on his approach. Giant grass green eyes opened, and he let out a toothy yawn. The night fury unfolded his large leathery black wings and in one smooth motion slid to the ground with a heavy thud.
"hey bud, how have you been?" he said fondly.
Hiccup gave the dragon's neck an affectionate rub. Toothless emitted something close to purr. The sound reverberated through Hiccup's chest and down to his feet. The Night Fury leaned into his touch and almost knocked Hiccup off his feet.
"you ready to fly" he continued with a smile.
This clearly sparked excitement in the dragon and his tail began to wag from side to side like a dog. Toothless lowered one wing expectantly which exposed the leather saddle on his back. Hiccup let out a small chuckle at the night fury's enthusiasm and carefully climbed onto his back.
"let's go"
Toothless leapt into the air and flapped his wings. Hiccup's head snapped back, and he clung to the saddle for all he was worth. Higher and higher, faster and faster. The wind whistled past, and Berk grew smaller and smaller behind them. They shot through the clouds and out the other side.
Finally, Toothless relented and leaved out. Hiccup took in a deep breath and released the saddle with his hands. This was true freedom, up here his father's expectation couldn't reach him. A broad smile broke out across his face, and he let out an honest laugh. This was what he was born to do.
The two gently soared through the sky riding the invisible air currents. They descended back below the cloud bank and Hiccup peered down below. He spotted a small collection of islands beneath him as well as few green specs further afield. It felt strange to be able to look down on their entire world.
Toothless keen eyes also scanned the ocean below for prey. Unfortunately, this was the only time the dragon got to eat since Hiccup stopped taking food to the Creek. Folk had started to ask question his frequent visits to the docks and why one person needed so many fish. The price of fame.
Toothless without warning drew in his wings went in for a dive. Hiccup was weightless for half a heartbeat then the two plummeted towards the ocean. The characteristic whistle resonated off Night Fury so loud it was painful. Closer and closer they got to the ocean until finally the dragon spread his wings.
The stopping force was so great the water beneath them parted and revealed the upper half of a dolphin. Toothless's claws sunk into the animal. Hiccup cringed as the dolphin thrashed around in the ocean. This was the way of the world, eat or be eaten, and a dragon the size of Toothless needed to eat a great deal.
The Night Fury heaved the beast clean out the water with one powerful flap of his wings. Hiccup took a moment to marvel at the sheer strength that took. Eight men would have struggled to lift an animal of that size.
Toothless took them to the closest island where he landed on the shore. The dolphin had gone silent and lay limp on the sand. Hiccup dismounted and left the dragon to his meal. This may be the way of the world, but that didn't mean he had to watch.
He walked down the beach and wondered idly where they were. It didn't take long to decipher. The black sand and barren landscape identified the spot as Raven's point. One of three islands that sat within striking distance of Berk.
Hiccup gathered a few loose bits of driftwood. Once he had an arm load, he returned to the black dragon. He dropped the bundle and arranged them into a small campfire. Toothless spat a brief burst of flame and the fire crackled into life. They sat for a long while in comfortable silence and watched the last of the sun disappear below the ocean.
"how can something that feels so right be wrong?" Hiccup said thinking aloud.
Toothless raised and cocked his head. Hiccup saw the understanding in his eyes. He gave the Night Fury a weak smile. The dragon attempted to return the gesture and Hiccup couldn't help but laugh.
"I have to tell them the truth, or at least try" he whispered.
The prospect terrified him. He had gone to extraordinary lengths to hide the truth for a reason. This would tear open wounds and grievances harboured for generations. But what choice did he have? This was the first real chance in seven generations to end the war. The first real chance to end the bloodshed.
Eventually, the two returned to Berk and the sunken creek. Toothless swooped down to the ground Hiccup dismounted. He was about to leave when he caught the Night Fury looking up at the sky longingly. The sight broke his heart.
"This won't be forever I swear it" He said, seriously.
Hiccup turned and began the return journey to town. Shadow hung over the forest like a cloak and hide the landmarks in darkness. Fortunately, Hiccup was familiar with the route and knew the direction well.
A warm yellow glow began to emerge through the trees as well as the faint noise of voices. The wood thinned and gave way to timber cabins. Hiccup wound his way through the houses until he came to a wide gravel walkway, commonly known as Mjölnir's path or Mjölnir's for short. This was the main route through town, and it snaked from the docks all the way up to the mead hall.
At this time there were few people around and Hiccup made his way up the town unimpeded. He rounded the top of the hill and past the great stone hall. Ragnar the fearless and Ivar the clever stood proud to either side of the entrance. Giants that loomed ten foot tall and were cunningly sculpted in stone.
Hiccup arrived at Stoic's house which stood proud at the top of the hill. The banners of house Haddock hung from poles either side of the doorway. A silver fish was depicted jumping over green background with 'Still We Stand' stitched into the base of the cloth. He took a deep breath and pushed on the door.
Stoic was already home and sat by the hearth. Hiccup's stomach churned with anxiety. He felt his conviction faulter and was suddenly very unsure of himself.
"father, I have something to tell you" he said carful to keep his voice level.
"I have something to tell you to Hiccup" Stoic replied with a smile.
That took him off balance and he shifted nervously from foot to foot. Stoic rarely had time to have a conversation with him let alone a smile.
"you first father" Hiccup insisted.
"Astrid told me everything" he said, meeting Hiccup's eyes.
"everything?" Hiccup asked nervously.
The room suddenly felt very hot and his palms sweaty. He tried desperately to keep the guilt and uncertainty off his face. What did Astrid say? She knew everything, one word from her could bring his whole world crashing down.
"what did she say?" Hiccup hedged.
"what happens in the woods… Hiccup you could have just told me" Stoic said, with a laugh.
"okay" Hiccup said confused.
Stoic hadn't smiled let alone laughed with him in… well since he could remember. The man had a vast repertoire of scowls and disapproving looks, but no smiles. What had Astrid told him?
"Training out in the woods. Brilliant! No wonder no one saw this coming. You've been holding out on me all this time" He said with broad smile.
Hiccup felt a sudden weight lift from his chest and let out a shaky breath of relief. But the experience had left him shaken.
"Oh yeah… I just… didn't want anyone to know until training started in earnest" Hiccup lied.
"You had me worried son. Thank Odin all that nonsense is over" Stoic laughed and grasped Hiccup's by the shoulder.
Hiccup decided to ignore the 'nonsense' comment. He knew exactly what his father thought of him and didn't need to open that particular can of worms. Besides he needed Stoic in a good mood for what he was about to say.
"father, as I said I have something to tell you" Hiccup said and took a seat by the fire.
Stoic took the adjacent seat to him. Hiccup's heart pounded in his chest. He was so nervous but couldn't prolong it any further.
"father I think a peace is possible with the dragons" he blurted.
Hiccup chastised himself internally, that was poorly said. A more subtle approach would have served better but his nerves had got to him. Stoic immediately recoiled and the smile fell from his face.
"please just think about what we could…" he continued quickly.
Hiccup didn't finish his thought. Stoic eyes bore down on him with the weight of a mountain and the fury of ocean in storm. He felt his resolve crack under the pressure and cast his eyes down to the ground unable to meet his father's gaze.
"what did you say?" Stoic asked, his voice dangerously low.
"father just think about it please. I know this probably sounds like madness but if you'd just let me explain" Hiccup pleaded.
"madness no. These are the words of a coward" Stoic crescendo'd.
The Chieftain slammed his fist into the armrest in anger. A sharp crack emerged from the chair. Stoic got to his feet and began to pace around the room. Hiccup's hopes slowly dwindled with each muttered curse.
"Peace a childish fancy. I thought you were done with all this nonsense" Stoic seethed.
"father please" Hiccup started.
However, he didn't get a chance to finish. Stoic was beyond listening and cut him off with a look. Hiccup cringed and retreated within himself. This was the man he had grown to fear over the years.
"Dragons have killed hundreds of us" Stoic roared.
"and we've killed thousands of them" Hiccup replied defiantly.
He regretted his words the moment they left his lips. Stoic looked down on him in sheer disgust. Hiccup had never seen such anger and trembled before it.
"get out" his father said no louder than whisper.
Hiccup fought back tears and retreated up the stairs and to his bedroom. What was he thinking? A peace would never exist whilst men like Stoic ruled the tribe. He was just a stupid, naïve child to think otherwise.
A door slammed from downstairs. Hiccup cringed. Tears traced their way down his cheeks as he undressed and crawled into bed. This was all he had feared and worse. He had failed Toothless and the people of Berk.
Hiccup lay his head against the pillow and resigned himself to another terrible night of sleep.
.