Author's Note: I'm very sorry for the long wait, I know I said I would try and not take long, so that's on me, and i apologize for it. Just a lot happening in July, and I don't want to go into it. Still here's the next chapter, and I hope you all will enjoy it.

Chapter 20: Aftermath Part 1

The battle was fought and won, the enemy had been driven off from Berk, and everyone was saved. All of the town's Vikings and dragons were free as their home was reclaimed, it was theirs again, as the aftermath of battle was upon them. Already they had set off to work. From the sky one could see many of the town folk walking about, or rushing, tending to their village. Either cleaning up or getting things back in order. Many of the homes being ransacked for valuables now had to be cleaned up, as everyone took inventory of what was taken. Things that could be replaced or things that could not, either way they were all glad to be alive. It was a good thing that the tribe were so close to one another as they helped out in any way they could, many homes having several Vikings inside, helping clean up or moving debris out of the way. The dragons were aiding as well, picking up any heavy objects out of the road or clearing things. Any fight involving Dragons, even when they were on the same side, can cause some kind of collateral damage, and they were more than willing to help their home as well.

Many taking note the setting sun, all of which could help but look at its beautiful orange glow as nightly slowly crept up on them. Many of Berk's Vikings glad to be able to see this sight again and rejoice in its beauty. Still, it would take a bit of time before they could fully relax as work is still needed to be done. Down by the steps of the Great Hall Stoick could be found, giving orders to various other Vikings, and getting reports on damages. His leadership being crucial now, as it would be needed to get everything back in order and things running. It was very time consuming and frustrating as bad news could come from any turn, but he had to be prepared to expect the worst. Sometimes it was the aftermath of battle that got to the chief the most, as he didn't enjoy receiving unexpected news.

"Take count of the livestock, see how many may or may not be accounted for," Stoick spoke out some orders

"Right," one of the Vikings nodded and took off.

"Check our food storage, chances are the enemy gorged themselves on our reserves, we need to see how much they set us back," he then ordered another one.

"May take a while but I'll get it done," the second one responded as he ran off to do as he said.

The chief stopped, blowing a sigh of relief as he took a look around, seeing many people busing themselves picking up the pieces of their lives. After such a horrifying event, it would be a shock and horror to see what the Berserkers and Outcasts did to their personal belongings, and their homes. Some would cry, some would get angry, others wouldn't show visible reactions…these were the emotions the chief hated seeing, as he hated seeing his people distress. Mainly because in the end, he would blame himself for not being able to prevent this. Keeping the village safe is his responsibility and he failed to do so, and everyone ended up being taken captive…It just made him angry that he allowed it to happen and took on most of the blame. He should have seen it coming, or at least had something in place to detect the attack better.

"Stoick!" a voice called out, prompting him to look towards the stairs, seeing Gobber hobbling down.

"What's the news?" Stoick immediately asked, going back into chief mode. Knowing the Great Hall was used to tend to the wounded, which there was during the fight, and their status being unknown to him.

"Gothi and the others are tending to the wounded, by count we have nearly twenty. Most of them will be fine, the others many are not out of the woods yet," The blacksmith said as he reached the bottom, joining his friend. "All the kids are being checked over as well, we have no idea what they went through, but the parents want to be sure."

"That's another relief off my mind," the chief said as he started to walk, going to check out more of the village and get the reports. Being separated from his people and kept isolated from them only made him worried at what was happening to them. Now that he can see them, he was both relieved and worried at the same time. What was most important right now is making sure they all were ok and none of them succumb to their injuries…sadly it was best he stays out of the Great Hall and let the healers do their work, as he would only get in the way. At least he didn't have to worry about any deaths as they all surprisingly made it…so far. He only got a few steps in when he found Spitelout walking up to them, the chief giving him his attention. "Status report?"

"All the stragglers have been rounded up and kicked off the island," the Jorgenson head responded simply, treating this as an everyday occurrence. "Although some resisted and we had to take care of them…messy but no one got hurt."

"Are you sure that's all of them?" Stoick asked, wanting to be sure as he didn't want any nasty surprises waiting for them.

Spitelout nodded, "Yes, the Riders are scouting the forest, and so far, nothing has come up."

Right on cue the roars of dragons could be heard, prompting them to look up, seeing Hookfang and Stormfly approaching. Both dragons landed down next to the trio, as Astrid and Snotlout dismounted, and walking over to their chief. Stoick looked upon then the same way as Spitelout, "Report."

"We scanned the forest several times, and found no one," Astrid responded first.

"Yet the Twins and Fishlegs decided to give it a once over just to be sure," Snotlout said next.

"Good, last thing we don't want is to leave anyone left on the island," Stoick nodded in response, thankful that the kids are being thorough. It never hurt too just be sure after all. "Might take a few days to return things back to normal."

"I say," Spitelout responded back with a scowl. "They plundered nearly all the valuables from my home."

"They did?!" Snotlout looked at his dad in alarm and got a nod in response.

"Thankfully they didn't leave with any of it," that comment made the teen relieved, as they continued walking.

"It's good to see everyone coming out of this unscathed."

"Well…Not anyone," Gobber then said, causing them all to stop and look at him. The Blacksmith sighed as he looked off in the distance, past the forge. Near it is a cliffside that overlooked the vast sea the island stood on. Sitting down near the edge happens to be Hiccup, the boy has both arms wrapped around his knees, head resting down on them as he's just looking out towards the water and the setting sun. Next to him is Toothless, who is lying down and nuzzling his rider in comfort. That is where the teen had been for hours, not moving at all.

After Dagur and the rest of his men were let go, Hiccup was silent afterwards, many of the villagers asking questions, but he refuted them. Instead, he just started walking, to the very spot he is in now. The blood on his clothes was enough of an indication to tell the villagers almost everything and quelled them enough to leave him be. Even Stoick did the same thing, automatically knowing his son needed some time to himself. He went over to the cliffside, along with his dragon, sat down and that is where he remained all this time.

The Riders soon explained in detail what Hiccup had told them, the chief's face turning grave as he heard every single word. Well, everyone around still listened, they too shocked. Their heir having to survive on his own, not only that but killing eight people in the process. Stoick was mortified, especially as all his son had to go through just to save the village. He wanted to go help his son, but Gobber stopped him, saying that Hiccup needed to be alone right now, to process everything, especially the choice he made about Dagur. Some of the villagers had mix reactions about the decision, some disappointed that their only chance to kill him was gone but others respected their heir's decision on preserving life. Still, they kept most of it to themselves, especially after hearing all he went through.

"He's too young to carry this burden," Stoick said, knowing that a kid his age shouldn't have to kill, especially as many as Hiccup did.

"The lad has been through a lot…If it wasn't for him, chances are Berk would still be in Dagur's hands," Gobber responded.

"I'm worried about him," Astrid then said, as a small silence overcame the area.

After a moment Gobber patted Stoick on the arm, catching his attention and motioning with his head. "I think he had plenty of time, go be a father."

Spitelout nodded in agreement, "Gobber and I can handle things in your stead."

Astrid and Snotlout stood there in silence, part of them wanting to help out with their friend. Yet, they knew that Hiccup needed his father right now, as he is the only one that could help. So, they nodded in agreement.

"Thank you," Stoick said as he looked forward at his son, starting to walk towards him.

No one could see the flurry of emotions that were raging on within Hiccup, so many thoughts, and feelings coursing through his body that it was nearly overwhelming. He wasn't sure why he hadn't broken down yet, but he figured that the orange glow of the sun setting aided him, along with the water of the sea. Still, as calming as it was to him it could only go so far. Being alone helped some, but not by a lot…well technically he wasn't alone really.

A soft coo is made, making him remember about Toothless being next to him, the Night Fury trying his best to comfort his rider. "I'm here for you…no matter what."

The teen appreciated having his dragon here, glad to know he's alright as that worry is gone. Now that Berk is free, he could finally stop it all…all the running, the hiding, the killing…all the decision making. A shudder shot through his system upon remembering his choice from earlier, letting Dagur go. One of the most important choices he had to make, one that would either benefit himself or his people…he chose to let Dagur leave, instead of killing him when he had the chance. To put an end to him and his tyranny for good and save his tribe the trouble of him darkening any door again. Hel, he could have chosen to hold him prisoner for good…but Hiccup didn't trust having him on the island even if it was under lock and key, as he wouldn't have peace of mind. Another decision where he thought of himself again.

In the end instead of choosing what was best for his people, he chose his own needs instead. Now Berk would have to suffer future attacks by him, if he chose to do so, and it was all because of him. Back when he allowed Dagur to live he thought nothing about it and just let him go, but now he's starting to regret it. As he's the heir, this decision was more impactful, and many others could have negative views on this decision. Did everyone hate him for letting such an opportunity go? Did they think less of him…or worse did all the work he did to get recognize take a huge blow? That's another thing weighing in on his mind…sadly enough he wished it was the only thing.

The more he dwelled on these thoughts, everything that had transpired came back to him in a flash…most of all were the people he killed. What will this mean for him going forward? His enemies would know that he himself is dangerous, would that make him a bigger target? Would they come after him in a much vicious force? Would he be able to respond to them accordingly? Could he actually ever be the same again especially after all he went through? The killing…letting his tribe down…possibly damaging and making others question his position as heir? So many emotions going through his mind as the unknown made him scared. His body breaking out in trembles as both eyes started to moisten, yet he held them back…feeling as if he hadn't earned the right to break down…not yet…at least. But control over it is hard and is having trouble keeping it at bay.

Toothless turned his head as footsteps approached, seeing the chief coming up to them as both green eyes watched him. Stoick looked down at his son, surprised to see him not changing his posture at all nor acknowledging his presence. Concern growing within him as his son is more unresponsible. He then sat down next to his son, getting a closer look at the child, spotting the trembling and the glistening eyes. Just from looks alone the big man could tell the emotions going through his mind, and to be honest he couldn't blame him at all. Despite being the leader of the Dragon Riders, Heir of Berk, his son is still a child…A child who has taken multiple lives already and had to put so much weight on his shoulders in such a short time.

Wrapping his large arm around his son, Stoick pulled him close till Hiccup was in a small embrace. The teen's body stiffened upon feeling this, the emotions, the fear, all of it subsided for a moment as he knew his father was going to say something…yet what came out of his mouth wasn't what he had expected.

"Just let it out son."

Just five words…five simple words that left his father's mouth. All in all, it could mean just about anything, yet Hiccup knew what he meant about that. Still, as much as he didn't want to, those words hit him hard. He wasn't sure if it was the feelings from the aftermath, or everything he had been bottling up…but he did remember saying how if he saw his father again, he would just break down. It didn't happen earlier for some reason but now…just hearing those five gentle words finally pushed him over the edge.

*Sniff* *Sniff*

His eyes glistened more as the tear ducts finally opened up, head now leaning to the side, burying his face into his father as sobs started to come out. Finally, after bottling it up for so long he's releasing the pain and suffering he had to endure ever since this all started. The fear of everyone seeing him, crying like a child, was non-existent as he just let out all the pain he had within. He couldn't stop it once it was released, so he would just have to ride it out. Stoick on the other hand closed his eyes, hand rubbing at his son's hair, trying to comfort him the best he could right now as his child cried. Just like a month ago, Hiccup had earned this, and was allowed to express this one emotion without shame. The chief knew that others were stopping to see what was going on, all of them surprised at their heir's actions…but they didn't condemn him, or anything of the like. They all understood why he was doing it, especially after news of his actions went around. They all nodded their heads in respect and sympathy, knowing fully well he had earned this.

Toothless cooed in sadness, knowing fully well his rider is hurting…but thankfully it seemed to be under control from what he could see. Still, he hated seeing Hiccup in any kind of pain and wanted to do what he can to ease it. Paddling up some he then rested his head in the human's lap, nuzzling him, and showing he was there. "You're a lot stronger than you give yourself credit for…probably stronger than me."

Hiccup continued to cry for a while longer, his father and dragon being there for him as he did so. Allowing him to finish completely, yet also letting him silently know that it's alright, and they are here for him. After a while he soon stopped, eyes red, face flushed some as they were tear streaked. "You ok son?" Stoick spoke softly.

The teen sniffled some, using his sleeve to wipe his eyes as the embarrassment of the situation finally returned to him, "I…I'm not sure…"

The chief was silent in this, rubbing his son's back in comfort. The day's events, along with the emotional unload must have been overwhelming for the boy, that and everyone included. Everyone needed to rest, his son included as he more than earned it. He gently ended the embrace as he started getting back to his feet, helping his son do so as well, "Come on Hiccup, let's go home."

"Ok…" he nodded slowly, not sure what else to do, nor if he was capable of doing anything else. Still, going home with his dad and dragon was appealing, and was more grateful for them being this comforting. They slowly walked away from the cliffside and the forge, passing by more of the villagers as the sky darkened. All of whom gave the teen a small glance, giving him a nod of sorts, or not showing anything negative towards him, although it didn't seem to matter as Hiccup kept his head down, just focusing on the path before him. Stoick looked at the villagers and gave them a dismissing nod, basically informing them all to get rest…they all could use it.

Hiccup especially.

The walk back wasn't as long as the teen thought it would be, his body moving on his own and being guided by his father. Soon enough they walked up the small hill which their home rested on, and stepped through the front door, yet stopped as they looked within. Hiccup remembering the last time he was here, how the Berserkers were ransacking the place, and apparently the sight hadn't changed. Furniture tossed about; baskets overturned with its contents littering the ground. Missing food, and nearly empty ale barrels, which were leaking on the ground. Despite it being dim, the outside light being let in illuminated it enough.

A grow came out of Stoick's mouth, but he refrained from saying anything at first, instead walking over to the brazier, relieved to see that there was still plenty of firewood. Taking a few pieces he tossed them in, Toothless then firing a plasma blast at the logs, igniting them and illuminating the home with light as the fire roared to life. Father and son looked around their ransacked home, shaking their heads at the damage that was caused.

"Hopefully they didn't take anything of value," Stoick responded as he walked to the overturned table and picking it back up.

"I'm sorry…" Hiccup then said, catching Stoick's attention and causing him to look over. "I wish I could have stopped it from happening."

"Hiccup you have no fault in this, you did everything you could that was in your power…Hel you went beyond that…I don't blame you, no one blames you, so you have nothing to be sorry for," Stoick tried to reassure his son, surprised that his son would take blame for something like this.

"If…If you say so," Hiccup responded as he kneeled down, picking up one of the chairs and putting it back in place, then turning his attention to one of the overturned baskets. He stopped as a hand was placed on his shoulder, prompting him to look back over at this dad.

"I'll take care of it son, go get cleaned up," the chief responded.

"But dad…you can't-" Hiccup tried to protest but is cut off.

"You've done a whole lot for us today, it would be wrong of me to ask anymore of you…besides," Stoick then looked his boy over, seeing the blood stains that covered his clothes, along with the dried bits on his face and hands. They say that every wound tells a story, and just by his son's appearance it could be enough to write a book. "…I bet you want to wash away the day's events."

Hiccup was silent, looking down at himself and realizing what he meant about it. True the feeling of blood on his body sickened him, and the fact that he had to feel it constantly only made that feeling worse. Having to carry the blood of his victims only weighted down on him heavily, and to be honest cleansing himself of that would do him good…mentally he hoped. Slowly he nodded in agreement, "O-Ok…"

Stoick patted his back, "I'll bring you some fresh clothes."

"Thank you," Hiccup responded back as he stopped what he was doing and headed to the back room, leaving Stoick and Toothless alone. The chief sighed at his son, hoping he'll be o after everything before looking down at Toothless.

"Can you help out in cleaning?" The Nightfury nodded in agreement, wanting to do what he could to aid in restoring their home. Stoick smiled before giving him a couple of pets. "Thanks, Toothless."

Hiccup had to admit, a nice bath was something that helped him out immensely. Being able to clean off the remnants of his time in the forest relieved him in a way he never felt before. Washing off all the dirt, grime…and blood helped made him feel a lot lighter. It helped set his mental state a lot, but the wounds were still there, but it made him able to put everything in the back of his mind for the moment. Scrubbing all the blood of his skin was something he did first, wanting to be rid of it most of all. He kept at it despite it all being off, as he wanted to be sure, but all it did was leave his skin reddish from irritation. Stepping out of the bath, he felt fully cleansed for the time being. It felt even better putting on fresh clothes, which his dad indeed left or him. A fresh green tunic, no vest, along with his pants. He didn't bother putting his boot on, not wanting to step out of the house.

He was surprised upon entering the main area of the home and finding it mostly picked up. He was also surprised to see his dad had worked that fast but got interrupted when Toothless came over. He smiled and petted his dragon; glad he was there. His dad was gone, and Hiccup assumed he went to wash up as well, which he did. Sometime later both father and son sat down at the table, eating only bread and cheese. It was small but it was something, and Hiccup wasn't complaining at all as it was food…and he didn't have to ration what he had.

"Sorry for the lack of proper food, this is mostly all I could find in the house," Stoick apologized to his son, as he didn't want to skimp out on dinner.

"It's alright, it's better than nothing," Hiccup responded, placing a slice of cheese on the bread before munching down on it. Sighing in contentment, he grabbed a full loaf and tossed it over to Toothless, the dragon snatching it out of the air and swallowing it, cooing as he is finally getting food in his belly. The small family continued to eat in silence, the tension filling the room after all the day's events, well for Hiccup at least. Especially with what happened not too long ago. "I'm sorry…"

Stoick picked his head back up again in surprise, "Hiccup, I've told you, you have nothing to be sorry for."

The teen kept his head bowed down, not wanting to look his dad in the eye. "I'm sorry for crying earlier…I know it's not something someone my age should be doing but…I did it either way."

Now Stoick couldn't believe what he heard, not expecting it in the slightest. "Son, it's fine, I know it was something you needed…there's no shame in doing so especially after what you've been through."

"Still…I…the other villagers saw me…I couldn't help it, everything that has happened to me just…came to me and hit me all at once," Hiccup responded in a low voice, still feeling ashamed of what he did.

"Hiccup…look at me," Stoick insisted, which thankfully he was granted as his son's green eyes met his own. "No one is going to bat an eye at you for that…they are more thankful for being able to live to see their home free again…all thanks to you. All that you went through is something that you shouldn't have to endure…it's understandable that you would break down like that, and no one would hold it against you."

Hiccup looked back down after hearing his dad talk, mulling over what was said to him. True, he had done a lot, far more than anyone his age was supposed to…all without Toothless' help…well almost as he got help from him in the end. Still, when it came down to it, he was still the heir, and his actions were judged way more alongside the chief. And doing what he did earlier…he didn't want to think about it, but it was hard. After such a long day he just wanted to forget things and not worry about it….only just for a tad bit longer.

"Hiccup, are you ok?" Stoick asked in concern due to the silence and averted eye contact. He didn't know the true scope of his son's discomfort, but he was trying his best to quell any fears he has. His son is in a fragile state, and this needed to be handled careful, just like before when he had his first kill…only problem is that he has done more than that since then.

"I'm…I don't want to think about today any longer…at least not now…I just…I'm just tired," Hiccup finally said, which is true as he could feel the fatigue already setting in. He really wanted to sleep, and get away from everything that happened, even if he knew nightmares were to follow. He was just done for tonight. Toothless cooed at that, going over to his rider's side and nuzzling him, as Hiccup responded by giving a couple of pets.

Stoick was silent after that, he knew there was a lot more to discuss as Hiccup went through a lot and it needed to be aired out. But, after a hard-fought battle, coupled with all the emotions he must be carrying, as well as the afterthoughts of everything he done, it was understandable. "Ok son, I understand, believe me I do."

Hiccup sighed mentally and downed the rest of the water in his glass before getting up, Toothless stepping back. The teen then started to make his way to the stairs, knowing there might be a mess in his loft, but already decided to leave it for the next day as long as his bed isn't messed up. Before he could even make it to the stairs a heavy hand was gently placed on his shoulder, stopping him in his tracks. Hiccup turned around and saw his father, just looking at him with a gentle expression. No words were needed it, as Hiccup could silently understand what his father was trying to convey. It only cemented itself when his father then placed his hand on his son's back and gently ushered him away from the stairs, his tired legs moving without a problem.

"T-Thank you," Hiccup silently said as the two made their way to Stoick's room.

"No thanks needed," the chief responded back as crossed the doorway, letting his son go first. Looking back, he saw Toothless sitting down, just looking at the two. Smiling he nodded his head, causing the dragon to perk up and go after the two.

Hiccup can remember how just over a month ago when he came to this very room, asking his dad for sanctuary in his bed. He can remember the embarrassment of asking for such a request, knowing it was something a child would do. How happy he was upon being granted it. This time around none of those feelings of shame were there, as in all honesty…he needed this, he needed that extra sense of security, mainly from the nightmares.

He sat down on the large bed before lying down on his side at the edge, curling up a bit to make himself comfy. Toothless padded up and sat down next to the bed, looking at his rider. The teen smiled as he reached a handout and rested it on the scaly snout, the dragon leaning into it with closed eyes. The bed shifted a bit as Stoick laid down, his frame taking up a majority of the bed as he laid on his side as well. One large arm went out and wrapped protectively around his son, pulling him into a gentle embrace. Hiccup expected that and felt himself being pressed against his father's front. He welcomed it and felt more secure than before.

Part of him wanted to close his eyes, but when he did so for a few seconds he was plagued again by the faces of the men he killed. At one point it was only six faces…now it was fourteen of them looking back at him. His hands clenched, bones popping and body shuddering as he opened his eyes, ridding himself of the faces once more. It only made him think about how there could have been one additional face with them if his choice earlier had been different. He wasn't even sure how to endure this, nor how to process it.

"You alright?" Stoick asked, feeling the shudder go through his child.

Hiccup was silent for a moment, but then finally responded in a low voice, "How do you do it?"

"Do what?" Stoick asked.

"All the killing," Hiccup responded back, taking a small moment to compose himself. "How do you deal with adding more faces to the existing ones you see? I never wanted to kill again…but I was forced into situations where it was unavoidable."

Stoick was silent upon hearing that, the question itself was a difficult one to answer, but one that needed to be addressed. Like before, with his son's first kill, he couldn't sugar coat it and needed to be truthful with him, but also take it slow. "How many was it?"

"E-Eight…I killed eight of them while on the run," Hiccup responded, knowing that was coming. "I did my best to avoid it…but in the end if I hadn't killed them…I could have gotten caught."

Stoick closed his eyes and took a deep breath, despite it not being too much information he could understand what needed to be said. "Sadly, Hiccup, there are times where we are put in situations where a choice has to be made. Choices that will have less than pleasant consequences to them, but they have to be made. It's just like when you made your first kill, how it was either The Outcast, or Toothless…one of them were going to die, and you had to decide which one it was…you chose to save Toothless."

"And I'm grateful to still be here to help you," Toothless warbled back, remembering that one moment as he was caught in the bolas. The dragon even feared for his life as he saw the Outcast coming towards him…that is until Hiccup jumped on and started to stab him…shock and relief washed over him, until he saw his rider's state afterwards.

"Only this time around, it was either you, or them. You chose yourself, wanting to preserve your own life, something that is commonly done, and shouldn't be ashamed of," Stoick spoke softly, hoping this is helping at least.

"Yet, how do you do it? I know there are times where you came home after killing but you always seemed ok," Hiccup asked, hoping to get answers he could use. He could always remember his dad coming home from voyages…or from attacks on the village…blood staining his clothes or weapons. It didn't take much for him to put two and two together. But his father always looking fine, like it didn't happen when it did, surprising him big time.

"That's the thing Hiccup, I never was ok," Stoick spoke simply, letting this one truth out. "I'm haunted by all the people I have killed in my lifetime, and I can still see them till this day. Every time I close my eyes they are there, looking back at me…reminding me of how I ended their lives. True, I look collected when I'm around others, only because I managed to keep it from taking over my life…it may not be what you want to hear but it gets easier to manage with time."

"But…how did you manage not to show it, especially around me," Hiccup asked, curious about this. Aside from nearly getting chopped alive when he sneaks up on his dad while sleeping, the chief never seemed to show his past kills had bothered him.

Stoick was silent for a moment, reaching up and softly smoothing his son's hair out, "Because I had you."

That made Hiccup's eyes raise up in shock, speechless as his mind processed those words.

"I may have not showed it but I did love you, even though the rough times in our relationship…I never wanted to expose any of this to you, so I did my best to not show it getting to me when I was around you…Even when you were a child, holding you like this in my bed…you weren't the only one that didn't get nightmares from this," Stoick explained, it was truth after all. Having to put up a positive front around his son when he was younger, but every time he was around his child it helped him. "For a brief time when you and I were having fun together…when you were younger, I could forget all the death I've caused…all the bad thoughts, even the nightmares. You helped me forget those bad times, even if it was temporary. So, in a huge part, you've helped me endure all these bad times…and I'm forever grateful for it."

Hiccup was stunned at hearing this, this new piece of information blowing his mind completely. He actually helped his dad with his own kills, he helped quelled all these feelings he was feeling himself. It was hard to imagine, especially a couple years back at how rocky their relationship was. It was hard to even tell what his father was thinking of something other than disappointment. Still, he believed it and it nearly made him tear up at the thought of it. All those wonderful memories as a child, their time together…the laughs, the smiles…they were helping his dad more it helped himself. He sniffed a bit opening his mouth, "Dad…I-"

"Sleep Hiccup, there will be times for questions in the morning," Stoick responded, knowing full well his child had more to say, but it was late, and they both needed the rest.

Hiccup didn't respond to that, except he did as he was told, shifting a bit to get more comfortable and closing his eyes. There were still so many things on his mind, all of which made him question his actions…but for now he could put those thoughts behind him, if only just for tonight. His eyes opened once more upon feeling a bit of added weight on his side. Looking down he saw Toothless' head resting on his body. A small smile graced his face upon seeing that, greatly welcoming the added contact.

Resting his head down, he closed his eyes once again…and to his surprise he saw nothing but black…no face, no voice, nothing. Nothing but blissful silence. Soon, he fell into a restful sleep, all in the embrace of his father and his dragon… he felt safe, he felt secure…

He felt home again.

A/N: Hope you like. Despite saving everyone Hiccup is going through a lot right now as his head is flooded with emotions. Still it was a good thing his father was there to help him when he needed it. There's still a few more chapters left into this story as it's almost done, not sure how many chapters but a few. I hope you all are enjoying it and are bearing with me. I'll try not to take long with the next one, mainly as i'm almost done with it. Still, I thank you all, please read and review, and let me know how i'm doing. Till next time.