A month after the siege of Trader's Bay, Hiccup had returned to Midgard at the King's Council.
"Given recent events, I feel as if it's important to have the Commander of the Grey as a member of this council," Hiccup opted.
"Seconded," said Tyrell. "This would make a mobilisation of our forces much easier in case there is another Blight or anything darkspawn related."
"Then all those in favour say, aye," said Hiccup.
"Aye!" said the council.
Hiccup smiled at his old friend, who was now sitting at the table with the other council members. "Then it is unanimous; welcome to the world of politics, my friend."
"I'm honoured," said Ragnar.
"So, what is the situation at Trader's Bay?" Ake asked.
"We're rebuilding the damage that has been done, but thankfully there's very little to rebuild," said Ragnar. "As for these awakened darkspawn, we have eliminated all those we can find. I have also sent a message to the First Warden of the situation, but it will be a while until I receive a reply."
"What of Bann Esmerelle and her co-conspirators?" Fishlegs asked.
"We have arranged it to make it seem as if she had been killed by darkspawn during the siege," said Kallian. "We are also rooting out any other co-conspirators and see if they have any link to Devi."
The Grand Cleric shook her head. "Such deplorable actions on both sides, are these actions really necessary."
"I'm afraid it is part of the world of politics, your Grace," said Hiccup regretfully. "And to other business, I believe that we have a new means of communication."
Gothi nodded. "Thanks to the arcane as you recommended to the Circle of Magi and thanks to our trade with Orzammar, we have these shaper crystals which have been converted for communication over long distances."
"With these, we can hold council meetings even if we're not in the capital, so there is an emergency we can convene at our earliest convenience rather than waiting for everyone to assemble," Hiccup explained.
"I have also been working on ways to deal with law enforcement in the Bannorn to prevent small conflicts out of petty reasons," said Fishlegs. "I recommend a new order of Knights to deal with disputes and punishment who are only loyal to this council. They will function similarly to that of the Grey Wardens, but we still have many things to iron out before we can continue."
Hiccup nodded. "As for my journey to Asgard, I have managed to improve relations. However, I do have an inkling that there may be a conflict within its borders in some point in the future."
"What makes you say that?" the grand cleric asked.
"The demeanour," Hiccup explained. "Whatever the case, we must stay out of this conflict and focus closer to home. Because I fear that the Blight was only the start of things to come, and we must be prepared."
"What do you think will happen?" Fishlegs asked.
"I don't know, but I have a feeling that our very way of life will be in jeopardy, and it will be our duty to protect our people, no matter the cost."