Here's the next chapter! I hadn't realized that this one was so long but I think it gets a lot across. This will probably be the longest chapter of the story. So sorry ahead of time. :/

To the guest reviewer: There is more to Astrid's pretend dating. She's not dating him because they should be together to be the 'perfect couple'. I promise there is more to it than that. Wwaaayyyy more. A really dark side to it. I'm not trying to be cliché, I promise. So if in the end, it is, I'm sorry ahead of time but I don't think this explanation has been done before.

Nonetheless.

ENJOY!


Astrid was on a date with him again. He had taken her to Denny's for the cheapness of it but also for the seclusion. Not that they were the only ones in the restaurant but that there were fewer people than say, IHOP.

He had seen that Astrid was in a negative mood all day but they had still planned on going out so he chose somewhere where there would be less noise. He did notice, however, that this type of behavior always accompanied her baggy sweats. She wore them once in a while but when she did, she was in a sour mood all day. He also knew to keep a smart distance and try not to aggravate her too much.

"What are you going to get babe?" Snotlout smiled.

"Probably just a bowl of soup. Maybe a salad," Astrid said uncaring. "I'm not really hungry."

"Alright," Snotlout nodded. "Whatever you want babe."

"Stop it Snotlout," Astrid spoke strongly.

"Stop what?"

"Stop calling me babe. I don't like it."

"Ok bab-" Astrid glared at him sternly. He swallowed nervously and corrected himself. "Ok. I won't. I won't."

Snotlout returned to the menu and pretended to read. They remained silent until they ordered then went back to their own thoughts. The atmosphere was so stressed that a bridged could have collapsed from it. From above the counters, the TV blared a new flash that grabbed both of their attentions.

Once again a strange substance has begun to terrorize people of all ages everywhere in Archipelago. Last night, three preteens and two young adults were found acting strangely. They were arrested and tested for drugs, which authorities believed they were on. However, when tested, medics found no trace of marijuana or cocaine but instead a strange substance in their blood stream.

Scientists have linked it to a substance similar to one that was found in victims several years ago. They believe that whoever was responsible for distributing that to people has improved on it and plans on spreading it even more.

The question remains however, how did these kids get this 'drug'. Most of them have never heard of drugs and others had shown complete and utter distaste for such things. Including smoking. When the victims were asked, once out of their dazed state, they all had the same story. They were attacked and stabbed with a needle.

"Wow," Snotlout scoffed. "Archipelago is getting a bit dangerous don't you think?"

"Yeah," Astrid nodded. "I just hope it doesn't happen here."

People have turned to Senator Bludvist about the new drug, the attacks, and wonders if will get out of hand.

"Ladies and gentlemen," Senator Bludvist raised his hands to calm the crowd. "I know that you all are alarmed by these recent events. I am too. But I have been assured that the young victims are healthy and are on their way home."

"Senator!" a reporter asked. "Are we safe from these attackers? What can we do to keep ourselves safe?"

"There has been no evidence of struggle on any of the victims. Police have looked into it and said that there was no foul play. However, they are not saying that the victims are lying. The police suggest that maybe they all touched something that had this new substance and accidently ingested it. I suggest that all of us use extreme caution and wash our hands everytime we touch something. It's the only way to fight this invisible foe."

The Senator says we have to just apply extreme sanitation to protect ourselves but could there be more to the story? Were the victims really attacked? If so, by whom? I'm Valarie Johnson and we'll be back after these messages.

"Ok," Snotlout shook his head. "I know I'm not exactly bright but even I seen several holes in that. Not attacked? And they all said the same thing happened to them."

"It's very strange indeed," Astrid nodded.

"I don't trust that Bludvist guy. He gives me the creeps."

"Seems like we agree on something."

Now to other news. The Archipelago term for Senator is coming to a close and new candidates have stepped up to the challenge. Once again, Senator Bludvist will be re-running for the third time in a row.

"What a shock," Snotlout mumbled. "He always wins."

"Yep," Astrid agreed. "Seems as if all other contenders just drop out of the race for some reason making him the only candidate."

"I seriously doubt anyone will beat him out this time."

Joining the race for Senator this year is Governor Stoick Haddock of Berk.

Both Astrid and Snotlout snapped their heads back to the screen in shock. "What?!"

Four time governor of Berk, Governor Haddock as decided to spread his skills to the entire Archipelago. He believes that we need a new face, new ideas, and a new plan. Governor Haddock promises to do his best to turn the Archipelago around and make it safer for all who live in it.

Given the improvements seen in Berk, there may be hope for this new challenger. The real question is, how long until he too drops out of the race?

"Uncle Stoick is running for Senator?" Snotlout asked out loud. "When did this happen?"

"I don't know," Astrid said still starring at the screen. "But I think Drago is going to lose this time."


Hiccup was sitting at the bar I the kitchen when Stoick entered the house. He continued to do his homework as his father walked in and began to make a sandwich.

"Hey dad," Hiccup glanced up for a second.

"Hi son," Stoick nodded. "How was your day?"

"Eh?" Hiccup shrugged. "Ok I guess. Just the normal boring school day, interesting observing at practice, and working at the auto shop."

"That's normal?" Stoick's eyes widened. "I know you do a lot but that's incredible."

Hiccup smiled sheepishly. "Thanks dad. So um-how was your day?"

"It was fine. Just a lot of paper work."

"Fine?!" Hiccup exclaimed. He looked his father straight on and smiled. "You announced that you're running for senator! That's something big!"

Stoick shrugged. "I guess. I was planning on running a few years ago but I decided not too."

"Why?" Hiccup questioned.

Stoick looked at Hiccup somberly, his eyes clouding over with sadness. "Because of your mother."

Hiccup's face fell too, understanding where his father was coming from. "Oh. I see."

"I buried myself in my work and in the process lost my desire to run and almost missed out on you growing up. I still feel like I have," Stoick sighed as he slowly turned around to put the ingredients of his sandwich away.

"So what changed your mind?"

"The reappearance of this drug again. Drago said that he dealt with it last time but apparently he hasn't. He's going to promise the same thing again and it's not going to get done."

"Yeah," Hiccup rolled his eyes. "Seems like most politicians do that." Stoick cocked an eyebrow as he eyed his son. Hiccup noticed and threw his hands in the air defensively. "I said most dad. You're not most. You're actually one of the very few who do follow through with your promises."

"Is that honesty or my son talking?"

"Both."

Stoick relaxed as he sat down across from Hiccup. "I also decided to run because of you."

Hiccup did a double take. His eye squinted, nose scrunched, and his mouth formed an 'o' shape. "Me?"

"Yes," Stoick nodded. "I don't want this drug thing to get out of hand. If your theory is true about people being attacked at random, then you're at risk. I'm going to do anything in my power to ensure that you aren't hurt."

Hiccup smiled sweetly. It was rare that he and his father talked like this. "Thanks. I appreciate it. Really."

"I don't think I could live if I lost you too."

Hiccup was taken aback by his father's words. "What?"

Stoick looked at his son tiredly. "When I lost Val, it nearly killed me. The only reason I remained sane was because of you. I had something, someone to live for. If I lost you, well…"

Hiccup grabbed his dad's hand. "I'm not going anywhere. You want to have Gobber trail me so I don't get hurt?"

Stoick smiled. "There's no need for that. Just be extra careful when you go places by yourself."

"When am I not careful?" Hiccup asked. Stoick cocked an eyebrow menacingly. "Um-don't answer that." Hiccup went back to his homework, trying to avoid Stoick's stare.


Dagur walked through his front door and slammed it shut, as was his usual greeting. "I home!" He hollered.

"Dagur!" his father snapped in a gentle way. "In here now."

Dagur was taken aback to hear his father's voice. He'd been between hospitals and work that he hadn't been home a lot. Dagur walked into the messy living room and saw that his father was cleaning the room. He picked up beer cans, chips bags, soda bottles, and other junk food related items. His father looked up and saw him standing in the doorway.

"Well don't just stand there!" his father demanded. "Grab a bag and start picking up this garbage."

"Why should I?" Dagur defied. He didn't like picking up after himself. That's what weaklings and nerds were for.

His father looked at him in disbelief. He eyes him with a ferocity but kept his voice even but powerful. "Because I am your father and I told you too. You're not out from under this roof yet and therefore you will earn your keep. You've been doing a very bad job at doing that apparently."

"Mom says that we can have the house any way we want," Dagur argued.

"Yes your mother may have said that but this is ridiculous! This isn't just leaving around a few pieces of trash! This is a pig sty! An unhealthy living place. As the older sibling, you should have taken care of this place. It's your responsibility! What about your sister's health?"

Dagur's heart twisted at the mention of his sister. He cared for her. She was probably the only person he would care for. His mother was nonexistent and so was his father. They weren't there to help raise them and Dagur didn't want to grow up too quickly. He didn't want to be the man of the house just yet but the way he was raised left him angry at his parents. It was mostly his mother. His father worked to provide money which she used most of on herself and never on him or his sister. At a very young age, he realized if his sister was to survive, if he was going to survive in this kind of environment, he would have to change his ways. So he took to being a bully and taking money from nerds and people younger than him.

After a while, it no longer turned into survival but a way of life. He enjoyed the way the nerds cried and ran to their parents or to teachers. He enjoyed their pain and believed it was only right to have them feel a bit of the pain he felt. He later learned from his mother the philosophy he now lives by: only the strong survive and the weak are mistakes of humanity. He took that to heart and made it his motto to live by. He needed to be strong for himself and his sister and everyone else was just a means to achieve that.

He beat up and harassed and bullied many nerds and weaklings but Hiccup was an interesting one. He didn't beg him to stop. He wanted to know why he was doing it. He didn't tell anyone about the bullying until someone else saw it and Dagur kept to outside of school. Even then, Hiccup never cried, never gave in, and never tattled. He was different from the other nerds and weaklings. This one had some guts, some courage and it fascinated him. He wanted to break Hiccup and for years, he hadn't been able to. The confrontations soon turned into a hope that maybe if Dagur was able to mold him into someone strong, that he could see and respect Hiccup as a friend and a brother.

"Davina is fine," Dagur rolled his eyes in fake annoyance. "She's perfectly healthy."

"For now. But what if she grabs something from the kitchen that's molded or has been touched by a rat?! I saw one in the living room a few minutes ago! I don't even want to think what's in the kitchen."

Dagur sighed. He had to admit his father was right about the place. It was very unsanitary. It was very understandable as to why his sister didn't want to come home. Hell, he didn't.

"Will you get off of my case if I go and get Davina and we help you clean up the place?" Dagur whined.

"Yes," his father nodded. "And after that, I will take the two of you out for a good dinner as a reward."

"Really?" Dagur cocked an eyebrow in doubt.

"Yes," his father nodded. "I'm not called Oswald the Agreeable for no reason."

Dagur turned around and walked up the stairs, doing his best not to trip over any of the clothes his mother just dropped there when she came home drunk. He approached his sister's door and opened it. He was very surprised to see that his sister was giggling in the corner and completely out of the norm.

"Davina," Dagur said in a strong tone. "What are you doing?"

"I'm just enjoying myself in my little world," she smiled. "You should join me. Mom and dad are very caring and you are the most popular boy in school and the most feared. You are loved by all and I'm a princess with you as the chief of Berk. It's the perfect life."

Dagur shook his head in confusion. He heard his sister ramble before on what she wished their life was like. She wished mom and dad were there more and more caring. She wished that Dagur was liked more and that they were royalty.

Davina then got up and grabbed a paper plate with food still on it and placed it on her head, the food now seeping into her hair. She then grabbed two mismatched pairs of shoes from the hallway and put them on, making her three inches taller.

"Come one Dagur!" she giggled. "Dance with the princess of Berk! Dance with me!" She grabbed his hands and began to twirl him around but he was able to get out from her grip only to watch her continue to twirl. "Isn't this fun?"

Doesn't she not notice that I'm not longer there? Dagur watched in curiosity as she continued to dance. She then wobbled on the high heels and twisted her ankle making her fall and hit her head on the bed. Dagur rushed to her side and found that she was laughing as if nothing had happened.

"Seems as if it's midnight and we've had too much champagne. It was so much fun. What do you want to do now my chief?"

Dagur looked his sister up and down and saw that on her leg was large bluish-black mark, never seen on her leg before. He looked closer and remembered the news he heard over the last few days. He began to panic but kept a calm face for his sister.

"How about you go sing in the shower and call your animal friends then ask them to come down and help your chief and your king in cleaning the castle before we go out for a royal feast? Would you like that?" Dagur asked playing to her delusional side.

"Oh yes! I will do just that!" She got up and began to peel off her clothes and jumped into the shower. As she sang in the shower, he pulled out his phone and called the police.

"911. What's your emergency?"

"I'm calling to report another victim of the mysterious drug," Dagur glanced to the bathroom door.


She ran out the door fast. She didn't care that her father was yelling at her to come back. She didn't want to. She didn't want to hear what he had to say. She didn't want to be in the house with him. She just wanted to be free of that prison. It had gotten too tight, too constricting, too horrible.

Astrid ran down the street and towards the forest. She zigzagged between trees and boulders until she felt safe and free to breathe. Her bucket of emotions then got to her and she weakly slunk down to the floor, resting against a giant tree trunk.

She wanted to cry…again, but she refused too. She wasn't going to let him get to her. Let him win. Crying was weak and too girly…right? That's what he always says. She balled up a fist of grass and threw it in anger.

Astrid gave up trying to be tough and just rested her head on her folded arms and just soaked in the peace and serenity of the sun lit forest. The beams of the afternoon shining through and warming Astrid's body where it made contact with her.

She jumped slightly when a soft stab of claws shot up her arm. She looked up to see a sparrow standing there, chirping pleasantly. "You still remember me huh?" She smiled as she gazed at the lovely bird in fond memory.

Astrid threw herself on her bed in exhaustion and boredom. She had been stuck in her room for the past four days unpacking her room. She hadn't been allowed to step outside once until she had completed her task.

Geez, dad. What a way to make a child feel like a prisoner. Astrid thought as she rolled over.

Despite what her father said, her mother allowed her to go outside with the excuse of 'taking the trash out' or 'putting the empty boxes away'. She loved that her mother did that but now she had a very big itch to do something besides be in the house.

She thought of something to do but didn't know what was around town. Yes, Hiccup showed her Main Street but those were just some business, not family entertainment stuff like a movie theater, a bowling alley or something. She sighed knowing that even if there was something, her dad would say no because both her mom and dad still had a lot to unpack. She would volunteer to help but her dad would never let her near his things. 'They're too precious for young hands' he'd say.

She groaned in frustration. I guess this is a major down side to moving. I don't know what things to do. I don't know any hang out spots and I don't have anyone to hang out with. She then shook her head in disagreement. She had a friend. Right?

She then sat up, hearing a car door close. She went to her window and pulled the curtains back. A giant smile spread across her face as she watched Hiccup get out of the car carrying a bag of groceries. She turned, just missing the other person getting out of the car, and ran downstairs in excitement.

Maybe Hiccup would like to hang out with me. I still hope I didn't scare him away the other day, despite what he said.

"Whoa! Whoa! Whoa!" her dad hollered as she barreled past the room he was unpacking in. "Where are you going in such a hurry?"

"I'm going across the street to see if Hiccup wants to play."

"This Hiccup. He's a boy right?"

"Yes," Astrid answered uncertainly. "Is something wrong?"

"Yes," her father said matter of factly. "He's a boy and you're a girl. I'm not going to have you hanging out with some boy without supervision. He could do something to you."

"Like what?" Astrid asked innocently.

"Like…" he started but then stopped to scold her. "It doesn't matter. You don't talk back to me missy. If I say you won't be with him…"

"Harold?" Astrid's mother popped her head in. "What's going on?"

"Dad says that I can't go ask Hiccup to play because he's a boy," Astrid explained.

Astrid's mother walked all the way in and playfully put her hands on her hips and shook her head at her husband. "Harold. Stop being so paranoid. She can take care of herself. Besides, the boy seems quite nice and he's the first person she's met since she's gotten here. He can probably introduce her to new people."

"Emily," Harold sighed back. "How can I be a good parent if you keep going back on my decisions. I don't want her to be playing with a stranger without supervision."

"This is Berk," Emily stated back. "Not Meridian. It's a small town with a very tight community not a large city with perverts around every corner. She'll be safe. I've already had several parents come to me and say that this neighborhood in particular is the safest because they all look out for each other. She'll be safe." She then turned to Astrid and smiled. "You go have fun with your new friend."

Astrid smiled back. "Thanks mom." She then turned to her dad and said, "I'll be fine dad. Don't worry."

Astrid wasn't too far out of the door when she heard her parents arguing about how their different parenting strategies are making it hard for him to establish respect with Astrid but she didn't care at the moment. Astrid was just happy to get out of the house and see Hiccup again.

Astrid walked up the driveway but had a hard time trying to find the pathway to the door because of all of the vegetation. When she found it, she had to push some branches away as she proceeded with her journey. She couldn't believe how thick it was. It felt like she was going through a jungle and was no longer in suburban Berk but nonetheless, it was beautiful.

She finally made it to the door. It was a large door, much larger than her door, with an intricate design carved into the dark wood that made it seem like it had been there for a long time. She looked back at the forest behind her to see that her house was completely blocked from the makeshift jungle but went to knock anyway.

Her hand hit the door but it felt too soft. Funny. I thought wood was supposed to be hard. She looked back at the door thinking maybe she hit something else and jumped back in surprise. In front of her was a very tall and large man. He had long red hair tied back in a small ponytail and his long thick beard of the same color was tied neatly together in several braids. His green eyes looked at her with curiosity and confusion. He was wearing a nice black suit with a green shirt and brown tie, looking very sharp. That was the only reason Astrid didn't run away scared to death. Wouldn't any eleven year old.

"Yes miss," the man said.

Astrid regained her composure and began to apologize. "I'm so sorry. I didn't hear the door open. I didn't mean to hit you sir."

"No worries," the man said. "What can I do for you?"

Astrid looked at the man and began to doubt herself. Do I have the right house? This man can't be related to Hiccup. "Um…" Astrid said nervously. "I was wondering if Hiccup's here?" The man cocked a curious eyebrow. "I met him the other day and he said he lived across the street from me."

"Oh!" the man exclaimed. He then chuckled a little as he smiled. "You're the girl from across the street? He's been talking nonstop about you. You definitely made an impression on him."

"Yeah. I moved in a few days ago."

"I forgot your name miss," the man said. "Hiccup said it once but I forgot."

"It's Astrid sir," she smiled.

"Astrid," the man nodded as he turned into his house and hollered. "Hiccup! Astrid's here to see you."

Astrid didn't have to wait very long before she heard footsteps running down the stairs. In a matter of moments, Hiccup's small frame appeared from under the man's arm. When he saw her, he beamed widely.

"Astrid! How are you?"

"Good."

"What's up?"

"I was wondering if it was alright for you to go and do something today. I've been itching to get out of the house."

Hiccup looked up at the man and he nodded with a small smile. "You can go." Hiccup beamed even wider and stepped out of the house. "Don't forget to be back by 3. Your mother should be home and I'm sure you don't want to miss what she's bringing back this time."

"I won't forget," Hiccup said as the two began to walk away.

"Hiccup," the man sighed.

"Yeah?" Hiccup turned back curiously.

The man pinched the bridge of his nose as he spoke. "How can you tell what time it is if you don't have your watch?"

Hiccup looked down at his wrist and smiled sheepishly. "Woops. I'll be right back." Hiccup ran inside to retrieve his watch leaving Astrid and the man standing in awkward silence.

"So," the man started. "I heard what you did for Hiccup at Gobber's the other day."

"Gobber's?" Astrid asked confused. She then remembered the name of the ice cream shop and nodded in understanding. "Oh! The ice cream shop. Hiccup told you?"

"No," the man shook his head. "He never tells me things like that. He'd rather have people not know than to know. I don't know why but that's the way he is."

"Maybe too shy?"

"Could be. But I want to thank you for what you did for him."

"It was nothing sir."

"Well, thank you miss. No one has ever stood up for him before. Especially to Dagur. I've tried talking to his parents but it's like talking to a dead computer."

"You're welcome sir," Astrid smiled. Did I really make that much of a difference? And really? No one's stood up for him? That's sad.

"Got it dad!" Hiccup exclaimed as he ran back outside while putting it on. "I forgot I left it by the sink when I did the dishes earlier." He looked at Astrid and smiled. "Ready?"

"Am I ever!"

"See you later dad!" Hiccup called back as he ran off into the jungle and beyond with Astrid.

Astrid followed Hiccup down the street onto Main Street once more. She didn't know where he was leading her but decided to follow anyway. But then something clicked in her mind.

"Wait!" Astrid said grabbing Hiccup by the arm. She looked at Hiccup in shock and confusion.

"What?"

"That was your dad?" Astrid asked in disbelief.

Hiccup smiled nervously and looked at the ground. "Yeah. Does it bother you?" Hiccup asked.

"No," Astrid stated sincerely. "I've just never seen such a big difference in family before."

"So it doesn't bother you to been seen with me?"

"No. Why?"

Hiccup sighed in relief. "I thought that with me being small would give you second thoughts. And I thought that you already made that decision."

"What are you talking about?"

"I hadn't heard from you in four days. I even tried to see you if you walked outside but I never saw you. I thought you forgot me."

"Really?" Astrid asked. "I thought that I had scared you away. Seems like we both had doubts."

"I guess so," Hiccup smiled. "Well, what do you want to do?"

"I don't know," Astrid shrugged. "Just show me your favorite places around town?"

"I really don't have favorite places in town but I have them in the forest," Hiccup rubbed the back of his neck. "Do you want to see those?"

"Sure," Astrid smiled. "I might as well start somewhere."

"I can show you places I think you and your family will like on the way," Hiccup offered.

"Are you going to do your tour voice again?" Astrid asked with a sly smile.

"Probably not," Hiccup giggled. "My voice was hoarse for a while after that. It's still too soon I think."

"Alright. Well, lead the way."

Hiccup went in the opposite direction they had gone before on Main Street. In the other direction, Hiccup pointed out different shops and businesses. Astrid took note of the tax office and the law firm so she could tell her dad later and she also took note of the location of the gardening shop for her mom. She discovered that Berk did have a theater, well two to be precise, a bowling alley, a skating rink, several parks, an art studio, a large sports center, and other recreational buildings.

"I hope that you can find something you'll like here in Berk," Hiccup said.

"The sports center seems like a good place to start."

"You like sports then?"

"Well, more like my dad puts me in them," Astrid said. "Says that they help to toughen me up so I'm not easy to walk all over by people."

"I think your dad wanted a boy," Hiccup said without missing a beat. His eyes quickly went wide and looked at Astrid apologetically. Astrid just looked at him with a cocked eyebrow. "I'm so sorry. I didn't mean it in a mean way. I just thought that because he forced you into, not that you probably don't like them but then he said about toughening you up…oh man I should just shut up."

Astrid started to laugh heartily again. She couldn't remember ever laughing so genuinely back in Meridian. "You are hilarious! I love it when you ramble."

"So you're not upset about the 'wanted a boy' thing?" Hiccup asked shocked.

Astrid shook her head. "No. Because it's true. So true. My dad's told me before."

"Really?" Hiccup asked in disbelief. "You dad just straight up said 'I wanted a boy'?"

"Yep," Astrid replied nonchalantly. "I don't mind. I like being a girl who's tough but it can be lonely at times."

"How? If you don't mind me asking."

"Back in Meridian, I had a reputation of being able to snap easily. The other kids were afraid of me and wouldn't come near me. I had two friends, Heather and Camicazi, but they were even afraid of me at times. I just felt lonely in a crowd of people."

"I understand that feeling," Hiccup nodded.

"You do?"

"Yeah. My dad's job has us always surrounded by people. I end up tagging along on some of his things and end up being swallowed in the crowds. I never have anyone to talk to."

"Does your dad know that?"

"Yeah. He tries to make it easier on me but it always ends up being the same every time."

"Well, at least your dad tries."

"Hey! Little Haddock!" a voice hollered.

Astrid turned around because she recognized the voice. She narrowed her eyes as the dark haired boy from the other day ran up to them.

"Yes Bobby?" Hiccup asked.

Astrid was taken aback. She didn't know that Bobby was referring to him. His name is Hiccup. Why would Bobby call him Haddock? Speaking of Haddock, why does that name sound familiar?

"Dagur wanted me to tell you that when he gets the chance, he's going to fry you and eat you with chips."

"Yeah?" Astrid snapped. "Well you tell him that if tries to hurt Hiccup I'll throw him at a wall like a dagger and I'll bounce you like a basketball." She raised a fist and took a step forward.

Bobby stepped back. "Got the message crystal clear. I'll pass it on. Don't worry."

Astrid smiled as Bobby ran away in fear. She turned to Hiccup who just smiled at her thankfully but it still looked a bit stupid. And cute. She thought. I like how his grin is lopsided.

"What?" Astrid asked.

"Nothing," Hiccup said as he nervously rubbed the back of his neck. "I just think you're the answer to my prayers."

"Oh? How so?"

"I've been praying for a friend that will always be by my side. Someone who can help me fight the battles I have no chance of winning. I know it's silly."

"Not really. Lonely people ask for that all the time. But I won't fight all of them," Astrid said. "I won't be around all the time."

"I know, but you've already brought down the number of confrontations I usually have by this time. Thank you."

"Have you ever thought about self-defense classes?" Astrid asked curiously. "I hear they help a lot with these kinds of situations."

"Yeah, but every teacher says I'm hopeless. My dad's tried everyone."

"And they don't even want to help you try again? Lame."

"They say I ask too many questions about the moves."

"Why do you ask them if it annoys them?"

Hiccup shrugged. "I don't know. I guess I'd like to know why I'm doing something. I want to know what they will accomplish. I guess I'm just too hard to work with."

Astrid then got an idea. "Hey! I know some simple moves. Maybe I can teach you someday."

Hiccup's eyes brightened and he smiled hopefully. "Really? I'd like that. I hate not being able to defend myself."

"Who doesn't?"

The two walked in silence for a while. Astrid took this time to think about the boy she was walking with. Here is this nice boy who gets bullied all the time. He's not hateful or angry like all of the other bully victims I've come across. He's not detached from the world. In fact, it seems as if he's trying to get involved. I mean, why else would he help a stranger? Especially after I snapped at him. He's funny and smart and kind and easy to talk with. She looked at the boy from the corner of her eye. He seemed different from the last time she saw him. Does he look happier? She shook her head in doubt. But then she thought of something that unnerved her.

"I hope you don't mind me asking Hiccup," Astrid said. "But do you have any friends?"

Hiccup darted his eyes nervously between her and the floor. "Um…besides you?"

"Yeah."

"Um…no," he said sadly. He bowed his head in depression and unconsciously slowed his pace.

Astrid noticed the shadow that covered Hiccup and his slowed pace. She slowed down with him and tried to think of something to say to lighten his mood again.

"You know. My mom says that one good friend is always better than a bunch of semi friends. I hope I can be that one good one."

Hiccup smiled and looked up at her. "I hope so too. I also hope I can be that good friend to you too."

"Me too."

Hiccup then stopped and pointed behind her. "Well, we're here. This is the forest."

"It's not that far of a walk from Main Street," Astrid observed.

"Nope," Hiccup said. "That's why it's my favorite place. That and not very many people come here. It's a place where I can be alone without anyone judging."

"Lead the way."

Hiccup showed her around the forest. It actually reminded her a lot of his front yard. It was lush and serene with chirping birds and sun peaking through holes in the canopy. Living in Meridian, she never saw forests or beaches but here she had them. She had a forest in her backyard and a beach for a neighbor. Well, at least that's what her mom said.

Hiccup showed her the small stream that trickled through the forest. He showed her the nest of frogs that didn't jump away when he came near. He even had a robin land on his head and chirp at him for a second. She watched as Hiccup seemed to be tuned with the creatures of the forest.

He's amazing. She thought. He seems so happy and at home here. She was in awe at his skill with the forest. It was very obvious to her that he'd spent a lot of time here.

"I hope you were just asking about human friends," Hiccup said.

"I was," Astrid nodded. "I never thought you'd have so many animal friends."

"If you think this is lot, you should see my mom's list of animal friends."

Hiccup brought out a small bag of bread crumbs from his pocket and opened it. He walked over to Astrid and grabbed her hand.

"Hold your hand open," Hiccup said gently.

"Why?" Astrid asked curiously.

"I want to put some bread in your hand. You can feed the birds. It's more fun than a bird feeder."

Astrid obliged to Hiccup's request. He put a small mound in her hand and then put some in his.

"Do you never leave the house without a bag of bread crumbs?"

"Nope. I never know when I want to feed some birds," Hiccup smiled. Astrid watched as birds just flocked to Hiccup's hand and ate freely out of his hand. With each new bird, Hiccup's smile widened and his eyes brightened.

Astrid was so engrossed by Hiccup's power over the animals that she didn't feel something land on her shoulder.

"Astrid," Hiccup said. "Look on you left shoulder."

Astrid looked and was surprised to see two robins looking at her. She then flinched a little when a sparrow landed on her wrist and began to eat out her hand. In the next few minutes, she felt several more land on her. In front of her, Hiccup was laughing light heartedly.

"What's so funny?" Astrid asked.

"You've seen Beauty and the Beast right?" Hiccup asked.

"Yeah."

"You look like the Beast the first time he feeds the birds. You're covered in birds."

"Well, this is definitely more fun than a bird feeder."

Astrid and Hiccup repeated the feeding until Hiccup was out of bread. The birds, however, stayed a while and flew around them.

"Have you tamed them or something?" Astrid asked. "I only thought that wild birds did this in fairytales."

"They do. I've just been here so long, they know I won't hurt them."

"They why did they trust me?"

Hiccup shrugged. "Maybe they figured you wouldn't hurt them because you're with me."

"Maybe," Astrid nodded. She looked back to the birds as they flew back to their nests and cared for their families. She suddenly felt a hand on her shoulder and turned to see Hiccup smiling at her again.

"What?" Astrid asked curious to why he was smiling mischievously.

He suddenly tapped her and ran off yelling, "You're it!"

Astrid gapped at him in shock. "Oh no you didn't," she smiled as she ran after him.

The two played tag around the forest for hours. To them, it seemed like a few minutes but when you're involved in a fun activity with a good friend, time seems to slow. Astrid had a hard time catching Hiccup for a while but finally caught up to him. Hiccup also had a difficult time in tagging her back but tricked her several times so that he could tag her.

Astrid was completely happy. She had played tag before back in Meridian but it was always a competition. Here, with Hiccup, it was just plain, good fun. She was enjoying herself heartily and didn't want it to end.

Astrid rounded a tree looking for Hiccup only to run smack into him. Hiccup didn't see her because he was looking behind him looking for her. She had been it. The two smacked into each other hard and feel back onto the brush. They sat up and held their heads in pain and looked at each other. Simultaneously, the two began to break out into laughter and fell back onto the ground.

Astrid and Hiccup sat there taking in the peace for several minutes. She couldn't imagine a day better than this. Feeding birds with my bare hands, seeing a real forest, and playing tag with Hiccup. Nothing can come close to the perfection of this day. Astrid continued to reflect on the day. Meeting Hiccup's dad, seeing more of Berk, that stupid Bobby, and…

"We have to head back," Hiccup said as he got up.

"Why?" Astrid asked as she got up as well.

"It's 2:30."

"Really? I feel like we just started to hang out."

"Me too."

Hiccup and Astrid made their way back out of the forest and back onto the streets of Berk. They continued to chat as they walked back. Astrid felt free and open. She liked being with Hiccup because she could be herself around him. She didn't have to worry about pretending to be something she's not and having someone see her for who she is.

"I have a very random question," Hiccup asked.

"Alright," Astrid shrugged. "Random away."

"How old are you?"

Astrid did a double take. She wasn't expecting that kind of a question. "I'm eleven and a half. I'll be twelve on October 23. How about you?"

"I'm twelve. I turn thirteen on February 28thor March 1st. Whenever's convenient."

"You're born on a leap year?! Wow. I've never met someone who was born on the 29th."

"Well, it's nothing too spectacular," Hiccup shrugged. "I just makes it hard for my parents to decide what day to celebrate my birthday."

They had rounded the corner and were almost to their houses when a white van went past them. Hiccup smiled at the van knowing who it belonged to.

"You know the owner?" Astrid asked.

"Yep. That's my mom's car."

Astrid watched as the van pulled up into the driveway and Hiccup's dad came out. He looked down the street and saw Hiccup and Astrid.

"Come on Hiccup," his dad called.

"I'll see you later Astrid," Hiccup said. "I might be busy for a few days so don't be surprised if you don't hear from me."

"Alright," Astrid replied. "I had fun today."

"Me too," Hiccup smiled.

"And it was nice getting to know you better."

"I completely agree. Can't wait to find out more."

Astrid waved to him as he ran toward his house and waved back. Astrid turned around and carefully crossed the street to her house. As Astrid was about to enter the house she turned back around when Hiccup exclaimed.

"He's beautiful!" Hiccup said.

Astrid saw Hiccup looking in the back of the car as Stoick and a tall thin woman with long red-brown hair watched from behind Hiccup. Astrid couldn't get a good look at the animal because Hiccup's parents were blocking the way. She also didn't get a good look at Hiccup's mom either for her back was turned to her.

Well, maybe one day I'll see her. Astrid thought as she went inside.

Astrid finally came out of her daydream to find that the sun was setting low in the sky. She pulled out her phone in a panic to see the time.

"Shit!" she grumbled as she quickly got up and began to run back to the house. As she rounded the corner, she saw her father's car turn around the opposite corner. She sprinted towards her house, entering the backyard before the headlights hit her. She climbed up the side of the house, forced open her window and fell into her room.

She then quickly set her alarms on her phone and jumped into bed. Hopefully he won't know I've been gone all afternoon. Damn! I haven't even done any homework!

Her bedroom door opened and her father's shadow appeared on the wall in front of Astrid. "Good," he mumbled. "Won't have to search the town for your whereabouts again." He closed the door and left Astrid to her thoughts and a feeling like the walls were closing in around her.


Now for those of you who have watched Race to the Edge, I know we know who Dagur's sister is. (not giving spoilers to those who haven't seen it) I wrote Davina before the season came out so... um yeah! I hope you like her though.