CHAPTER 26
Tengan stretched and yawned as she shifted under the warm pile of furs covering her. Without opening her eyes, she let her fingers trail along the overstuffed mattress, slowly reaching out towards the other side of the bed. "Dagur?" She mumbled sleepily as her searching hand found only a cold divot where her betrothed should have been. Her sleepy question was immediately met with a muffled response and several dull thuds as heavy, hurried footsteps approached.
"Right here, baby." Dagur's gentle voice carried across the room as he shouldered open the door, his hands full of a steaming mug of tea and half a loaf of bread. Setting the items down on their bedside table, he settled onto the bed next to his barely conscious lover.
Tengan slowly forced herself into a half-sitting position, her eyes barely cracked open. "Why are you up so early?" She asked through a poorly stifled yawn as she shifted closer. Deciding consciousness was currently not worth the effort, she stretched out on the large bed once more and rested her head comfortably in Dagur's lap.
The Berserker chief smiled warmly down at her as he ran his fingers along her back and side, the digits leaving a trail of goosebumps behind on the exposed skin. "It's a couple hours after sunrise actually."
Tengan, who had been humming in content at the light dance of his fingers along her spine, shot upright as his words sank in. "What?! Oh no, I overslept!" She gasped, her vision temporarily swimming and going dim as the blood rushed from her head. "Why didn't you wake me?"
Dagur's arms shot out to stabilize the swaying rider. "You needed the rest." Plucking the steaming mug from the table, he held it out before her. "Drink." He commanded, his stern expression leaving no room for argument.
With a minor groan of trepidation, she took the offered mug and began draining it with long, slow sips in an effort to avoid scalding her tongue. Despite having lost a few precious hours on their last day of preparation before the summit, Tengan found herself unable to be frustrated with her beloved. Dagur had been nothing short of supportive, if only somewhat overbearing, since they landed a little over a week ago. That same evening, he had sent out a request for any and all available paper and writing utensils to be brought to their home while she unpacked her few surviving works. While the mostly empty shelves had brought on a painful pang at first, the avalanche of fresh scrolls and books delivered the following morning had been a spark of inspiration.
She had spent nearly all of the daylight hours huddled over her desk in their small library, quills scratching ceaselessly on roll after roll of parchment. Every small detail she could remember of each of the islands they visited, the people who shared in their passion for protecting dragons, the seemingly innocent interactions they had shared with Johann were all rerecorded. The personal journals Dagur had managed to track down and keep safe had been a blessing, as they often had small notes or observations that triggered a sunken memory. Late at night, well after her hand had begun to cramp from clutching her writing instruments and when Dagur dragged himself inside after an exhausting day of preparing the Berserkers for their new threat, the pair would cuddle near the fire and flip through her old journals. After some intense prodding and pleading on Dagur's part, Tengan eventually relented and let him read her passages on their first few encounters. He had lovingly taunted and teased her about describing him as "annoyingly handsome" for nearly three days.
The only other time they could find to spend together as a courting couple had been the daily midafternoon flights they took over the island, although even then they were both hard at work. Dagur insisted the patrols allowed him to show his people he was ever vigilant for any potential threats and having Tengan and Rumble join him, Sleuther, and occasionally Shattermaster, would bolster their confidence in his leadership. Tengan loved the opportunity their flights provided to flesh out and detail the map she had craftred of her new home, down to the several entrances to the mysterious web of tunnels that honeycombed the island. Even now, her half finished map and incomplete recollection of Viggo's past attacks on the Edge called to her. Sneering down triumphantly into the empty mug of herbal tea, she set it down on their bedside table. "Thank you, love."
Dagur, sensing she was about to try to stand, quickly snatched up the small, fresh hunk of bread and held it under her nose. "Not so fast. Heather was up early working on this honey-nut bread." He smiled as she took the offering without complaint. As she began to slowly munch on the warm bread, he allowed himself to lay back on the bed and stretch. "She also wanted me to let you know she'll be the one taking you on the patrol flight this afternoon."
"Why?" Tengan asked in between mouthfuls, her head partially cocked to the side. "Not that I don't enjoy spending time with my soon-to-be sister, but is everything alright?" Her brow furrowed in mild concern as she gazed down at her clearly exhausted Berserker chief.
Dagur, sensing the worry in her tone, quickly bolted back upright and placed a hand on her thigh, his cold, rough palm absorbing the waves of heat radiating off her soft skin. "Everything's fine. The last ship in for repairs needs it's mast replaced. I'm going to take Shattermaster and Sleuther down to the docks to help hoist it into place."
Nodding, Tengan swallowed the last large mouthful of the sweet bread, smiling at the wonderful flavor of it. "I'm glad Shattermaster's up to working again." She placed her now empty hand over his. "You know, I remember the route. Rumble and I could do the flyover on our own. That would leave Heather free this afternoon to work with the guard." She suggested delicately. The fierce Berserker woman had demanded to take charge of the armada the day after they landed. Her reason was sound; the men would most likely have to face off against the fleet of Singetails either on land or from their boats. What better way to prepare them than to practice sparring against Heather and Windshear?
"No way." Dagur countered immediately, his glare fierce. He slowly slid his hand up from her thigh to rest on the small swelling that had begun to form over the past few days. As he gently pressed into it, his smile returned. "No way Daddy is letting anything happen to you or Mommy." He cooed at the tiny bump.
Tengan sighed and leaned back slightly as he rubbed soothing circles over her stomach. While she had hoped her early relocation to Berserker Isle would soothe some of Dagur's nerves, the arrival of the tiny bump seemed to throw him into mother hen mode. Every time they flew on patrol, he'd be sure to fly a little behind and below Rumble, as if the gentlest breeze would throw her from the Skrill's back. Each evening as he returned from whatever was needed from him as chief, he'd relax and unwind with his arms draped around her, hands resting protectively over that small swell in her stomach. "Well, at least we'll have some time to catch up." She admitted in defeat, smiling down at him.
Dagur grinned triumphantly back at her as he straightened. "Are you going to be alright walking all the way to the stables on your own? I could always have Kralins walk you. He's scheduled to be on watch but.." He trailed off, clearly lost in thought as he mentally swapped around a few people's assignments.
Sensing the impending discourse, she interrupted his stream of thoughts with a slow, delicate kiss, her fingers coming up to slide through his beard. "Dagur, I'm carrying a child, not a fainting sickness. I'll make it to the stables on my own just fine." She finished firmly, her forehead pressed against his as she stared into his seemingly endless emerald eyes. "Although, I will miss you today." She added quietly.
A smirk stretched his features. "I do have a little time before the morning council." He growled as he slowly tipped her back onto the bed. Almost every evening this week, and some mornings, the pair had lost themselves in each other's arms. Each coupling always began with his hands caressing the small swell of her belly. It seemed, if anything, the physical evidence of their growing child fanned his fervent flames of desire, not that anyone would ever catch Tengan complaining.
As Dagur eventually pulled his garments back on and reluctantly left her behind in their home, Tengan pulled her own clothes over pleasantly sore limbs and stumbled her way into the small library down the hall. The remaining morning hours ticked away as she fleshed out her maps and added any stray thought she thought would be helpful in tomorrow's meet. "Comeon now." She scolded herself. "Think. That can't be all you remember." She glared at the written history she recounted between Johann and the Riders, scowling at empty half foot of scroll poking out under her notes. "Maybe Heather remembers something I haven't." She suggested to her small bump. "As little we've seen of your father, by this rate you'd never know you have an aunt." Smiling to herself, she stood and stretched before slinging her satchel over her shoulder and heading out into the bright sunshine.
"Look who's finally out of her cave!" Heather cheered in greeting as she watched Tenagn climb the crest of the steep, hilly path from the village.
"Ha. Ha." Tengan wheezed out in between heavy breaths. Pausing to place her hands on her thighs, she glared up at the waiting young woman. "Oh don't give me that look." She straightened up, her glare melting into a smirk as she embraced her raven-haired friend. "Good to see you. How are the men coming along?"
"Well enough. No one's been able to beat Windshear yet, but they should be more than a match for those Fliers." Heather responded with a cocky smirk before she glanced down at Tengan's midsection. "I thought you felt a little bigger!" She smiled down at the minor bump.
"Yeah, the little one has started taking over." She admitted with a tired smile. "Your brother's been talking to my belly non-stop the past few days." With a good-natured sigh, she shook her head. "Let me go saddle up Rumble and we'll be ready to go."
"No need. Already taken care of." With a sharp whistle, Heather smiled as Windshear and Rumble came charging out of the open stable door and over to their riders.
"You know I'm still perfectly capable of saddling him myself." Tengan commented with a twinge of annoyance as she hoisted herself into the saddle, smiling as Rumble hummed in excitement.
"Oh I know." Heather responded evenly. "I was here first and figured it would give us more time to catch up in the air." Coaxing Windshear to take off, she hollered down at the still grounded pair. "Did you honestly think I'd ever take it easy on you? I'm not my brother, ya know!"
"For that, I'm thankful." Tengan called back as she and Rumble climbed to meet the pair. "I love that man to death but he's been a handful. It took me an hour the other day to convince him to let me help scout out willow bark to send to Berk. With child or not, Gothi would have knocked me into next winter if she found out I let subpar willow bark make it into her hands." She grinned devilishly at her partner. "Actually, Rumble and I have been a little out of practice lately when it comes to air defense. Mind running a few drills in on our way to the outer edge?"
Several hours later filled with dives, corkscrews, barrel-rolls, and other maneuvers that would have given Dagur a heart attack, Tengan slowly made her way back downhill, her now almost complete map of Berserker Isle and note sheet of recollections Heather had dictated cradled in one arm. The other held her old satchel, making an effort to pinch closed the large hole Windhsear had accidentally torn in it as the dragons closely spiraled around each other in their final dive towards the island. "Think we can fix this before your father gets home?" She whispered to her belly as their hut came into view, beautifully backlit by the orange glow of the setting Sun.
The following morning saw Dagur and Tengan touching down on Caldera Cay just before midday. Sliding out of Rumble's saddle, Tengan lifted her arms over her head in a stretch, her groan devolving into giggles as the Skrill lipped at her side. "Ah Rumble stop!" She scolded through her laughter as she gently pushed the Skrill aside.
"Hey look who finally made it!" Ruffnut hollered over to the pair as she and Tuffnut approached, Barf and Belch practically dancing behind them.
Sensing the energy radiating off the trio of dragons, Tengan just managed to cover her ears in time as Rumble and Sleuther trumpeted their greetings. The hulking dragons thundered over to one another and quickly began nudging, nipping and wrestling. "Ruff! Tuff!" Tengan greeted the twins with a broad smile once the dragons were a good distance away. It felt as if she hadn't seen them in months rather than days.
"Boynut, Girlnut." Dagur greeted with a smile and nod as he shouldered Tengan's newly repaired satchel filled to the seams with her notes for the meeting. "Where's brother Hiccup?" He peered past them, eyes scanning the nearby town.
"He's off with Snotlout collecting that leader chick from Wingmaiden island." Tuffnut dismissed with a wave before grinning at the couple. "It's a good thing you two landed when you did. We are dying of boredom. I mean, it's a real funeral over there. Now I was thinking-"
"That we should introduce Dagur to Queen Mala and bring them up to speed? Good thinking Tuff." Astrid cut across him with a stern glare as she approached. "Hey stranger." She smiled and pulled Tengan into a loose hug. "Woah, look at that!" She gasped in mild surprise as she bumped against the expectant rider's slightly swollen belly.
Tengan grinned back at her friend, amazed at how much she had missed them in the short time they had been apart. "I know, it took me by surprise too."
Dagur sidled up to the girls, placing the palm of his free hand on the small of Tengan's back. "Let's head to this meeting place. You shouldn't be on your feet after that long flight."
"Of course." Astrid quickly responded with a knowing smile and a playful wink at the clearly exasperated Tengan. "Follow me." She turned on her heel and began to lead them back into town. "And you two, just stay out of trouble today, alright?" She addressed the twins with a threatening glare before continuing her march.
"Fine." Ruffnut agreed for the twins as they fell into line behind the small group. "Killjoy." She added, her murmur just loud enough for the others to hear.
The designated meeting place for the summit was a small outdoor clearing just beyond the Great Protector's lava pit. A long, sturdy wooden table had been set in the center of the clearing with several mismatched chairs clustered around it. Fishlegs and Mala sat across from one another, pouring over a pile of notes. At the sound of approaching footsteps, the Gronckle trainer lifted his head and grinned, waving enthusiastically to the couple. "Tengan! Dagur! Glad you made it! Come take a look!" He pointed eagerly at the paper before him.
As the others made their way over to the mostly empty table, pleasantries and greetings were exchanged among the group. Mala gave her condolences for the loss of Tengan's work, Fishlegs commented on the new maps and notes, Astrid filled the Berserkers in on their struggles with replacing any goods Johann could have tampered with, and the twins complained about the lack of entertainment at least once every five minutes. After an hour or so the conversations ran dry and the group fell into a dull, bored silence.
"So, when is brother supposed to arrive?" Dagur eventually asked in hardly restrained annoyance as he idly toyed with a few errant curls on Tengan's head.
"Soon." Astrid promised as she glanced at the Sun, now nearing its apex. "As soon as he and Snotlout arrive with Atali we've got to figure out a strategy to deal with the Fliers and, now, Johann." She slammed her closed fist on the table, a deep scowl spreading across her features. "I had meant to wait for all of us to be here." She paused as she registered the unrestrained boredom and ill concealed frustration on the island leaders' faces. "But, I suppose we could get started on discussing where to keep the Dragon Eye lenses." Reaching under her chair, she produced a small satchel and placed it in the direct center of the table.
"Might I suggest we place them inside our volcano?" Mala chimed in, her face brightening with interest at the opportunity to be productive. "It's far from the easiest location to access." She added with a small, confident smile.
Dagur began to laugh as he extracted his fingers from Tengan's curls. "Inside an ACTIVE volcano?" He asked incredulously, turning to stare down the island's queen. "That's what you're proposing? Well, what happens when, you know, it ERUPTS?" He gestured wildly towards the aforementioned hiding spot.
Mala scowled. "If it erupts," She emphasized. "We have the Eruptodon to manage it's lava flow." She folded her hands together and rested them on the table, her face set.
"If, when, same thing really." Dagur dismissed with a frown. "And you're so sure your 'Great Protector' can handle a full-scaled eruption!?" His voice rose in volume and pitch as he leaned across the table to snarl at the queen. When she hesitated, he plowed on. "Of course you're not!" Standing suddenly, he slammed his palms down on the table. "Berserker Island is the obvious choice! Our Berserker Guard-"
"Allowed a coup to take place right under their noses." Mala shot back coldly from her seat, her face impassive. "I do have that correct, right?"
Dagur's face flushed with rage as a desperate cackle began to escape the back of his throat. "This one thinks she's got it all figured out but really she's got nothing figured out!" His eyes flashed dangerously as he pointed threateningly towards the queen.
Tengan stared between Dagur, Mala, and the other Riders, momentarily lost for words at the sudden breakdown in communication. She placed her hand on Dagur's forearm, pausing only to throw the twins a tired glare as they began to munch on their exploded corn snack Tuff had dubbed the 'Clouds of Corn'. "Dagur, please, stay calm."
"I AM CALM!" He roared to the cloudless sky before clearing his throat hurriedly. "See? Calm!" He flashed Tengan what seemed to be a solid attempt at a reassuring smile although the effect was more of a strained grimace. "I mean, I'm not crazy, it's her right?" He jabbed a thumb towards Mala, his eyes still forcefully locked on Tengan.
"I've got this!" Fishlegs chimed in in a falsely cherrie voice as he quickly pushed his chair back and stood. Trotting over to a clear patch of earth he beckoned Meatlug over. "Drop-spin please." He requested, smiling as the Gronckle traced a large circle in the dirt with her bludgeon of a tail. "This is called common ground." He gestured towards the seated group with a confident smile. "Won't you two join me?"
Tengan smiled up at Dagur and placed a quick, chaste kiss to his cheek as the others turned to look at Fishlegs' dirt ring. "Go on, give it a try." She leaned in closer under the guise of adjusting his breastplate. "Mala was kind enough to let us stay when the Singetails attacked our home. She can be a bit prickly when it comes to their Eruptodon but I believe she means well. Take it easy on her? For me?" She whispered quickly into his ear before pulling back and nodding.
Dagur responded with an expression akin to a viking just told he would have to shovel dragon dung for a month before slowly scraping his chair backward, a heavy sigh escaping.
As the two leaders made their way to the circle, Tengan leaned in towards Astrid. "Where are Hiccup and Atali?" She whispered quickly. "Dagur has been on edge the last few days with all the island preparations and his patience isn't all that great at the moment. Hiccup he'd concede this argument to, but Mala?" She bit her lower lip and shook her head slightly.
"Why does he want the lenses on Berserker Isle anyway?" Astrid whispered back as she glanced over at the now quietly bickering rulers. "I agree that the volcano here may not be the best location, but I don't know why he'd want to make Berserker Island a target with, well…" She trailed off, her eyes flicking to Tengan's stomach.
"I'm not sure myself." Tengan added with a curt shake of her head, her curls bouncing wildly with the movement. "I'll ask him after they've finished with Fishlegs' exercise." Turning her chair so she could comfortably keep an eye on the glowering pair of leaders, she settled down to wait.
"Wow." Ruffnut commented a few hours later as she watched the still quarreling chiefs. "Even Tuff and I can't maintain an argument for this long." She reached into her now empty bag of corn clouds, scowling as her hands closed on air. "Hiccup better get here soon, I'm all out of snacks!"
Tengan frowned and spared a quick glance for her friends. "I hope he's alright and the delay isn't anything serious. Although, I fear if he doesn't make it soon there won't be an alliance for Atali to join." Her gaze snapped back to Dagur, who's frustration had apparently boiled over with a dull roar.
"Until he gets here we need to think of something else." Astrid added in a desperate whisper. "The Sun's already setting and all we've accomplished is a new record for longest continuous argument."
"Shame really, I was enjoying holding the title." Tuffnut sighed as he stood and stretched. "Ready to handle this, Ruff?"
"Oh I was born ready." She grinned in response and leapt to her feet. "You two just sit and watch. When Hiccup's away, the twins will play!" Cackling, she approached the yelling chiefs.
"What in Thor's name are those two mutton heads up to?" Astrid hissed as she scrambled to her feet after them.
"I have no idea. At this point I'm willing to try anything to get those two to break it up." Tengan countered as she followed along, stopping only long enough to gather up the unused piles of notes and maps that had spent the better part of the day baking under the sun.
"Thanks for the vote of confidence, Tengan!" Ruff turned brief to grin back at her. "It just so happens my brother and I are the two best vikings for this job."
"Yup!" Tufnut added with a nod. "Ruff and I have mediated every Thorston argument back to before we could talk! Step aside Fishlegs." He gripped the exhausted Rider under the elbow and pulled him away from Dagur and Mala, allowing the two to advance on one another as they continued to hurl increasingly mean insults. "We'll have this settled before you can say-"
"Tightrope!" Ruffnut interjected with a manic smile. "We need a tightrope! Keep them busy for a few minutes while I go find one!" Snapping her fingers at the realization, she bolted off in the direction of the town square.
Tengan blinked twice in as a sense of confusion and reluctant acceptance washed over her. "Astrid, you take Mala. I've got Dagur." She gave the blonde Rider a reassuring smile before approaching her bellowing Berserker. Coming to his side, she slowly reached up to gently lay her hand on his upper arm as Astrid mimicked the motion with Mala. "Dagur? I could use your help for a moment. I think I left my herbs in Sleuther's saddle bag."
With a final snarl, Dagur forced his glare away from the irate queen; his eyes softening considerably as he caught Tengan's gaze. "Anything to get me away from that.. Ugh!" He groaned in frustration as the pair broke off. "How many times do I have to tell her; HOPE IS NOT A STRATEGY!" He roared back over his shoulder as he allowed Tengan to lead him away from the clearing.
Tengan chewed her bottom lip, taking a moment to consider how to best word her question. "My love," She began as she gently squeezed his hand. "I agree with you that hoping the Eruptodon will always be able to contain the lava flow is a foolish plan."
"Thank you!" Dagur practically yelled in relief. "Finally, someone who is talking sense. I refuse to deal with Queenie over there until Hiccup arrives. She's crazy! Berserker Island is the safest place for those lenses and we all know it!"
"They certainly would be well protected at home with us." She agreed, her heart fluttering at the sight of the smile that graced his features every time she referred to Berserker Isle as her home. "But, I'm surprised you would even want the lenses there. Wouldn't that make our island more of a target? What if the Fliers find out where we're keeping them?" Her brow furrowed as she ploughed on. "Not that I don't think we can fight them off. Between you, me, and Heather there are few who could match us. I guess I just assumed-"
"That I would want to keep you as far away from the fighting as possible." He finished for her, his tone finally beginning to level out as he glanced down at her, his free hand coming up to gently cup her growing bump. "Tengan, if I thought you would listen to me, I'd send you to stay in a cell on Outcast Island surrounded by an army of Whispering Deaths until this was all over."
She scoffed at the suggestion, her eyes flashing with indignation. "You're lucky I don't send Rumble after you for even suggesting something so ridiculous!" She snapped back a bit stronger than intended, her mental fatigue and frustration at the lackluster summit beginning to break through.
Dagur chuckled at her response. "And that's exactly why our child is going to be the strongest viking the archipelago has ever seen!" He pulled her to his chest and pressed a couple quick kisses to her lips. "Ending this war quickly is my only option to keep you both safe. And the fastest way to end it is…" He let his sentence hang unfinished.
"If Hiccup is the first person to find and possibly train this King of Dragons." Tengan finished, comprehension dawning on her features. "The risk of the Fliers attacking us is preferable to the years-long war we'd face if Johann captured the King first."
"Exactly." Dagur nodded as he stared past the woman wrapped protectively in his arms and over to the small cluster of dragons wriggling in the sand warmed by the dying rays of the Sun. With a short, distinct whistle, he called the Triple Stryke away from his companions. "Is it really time for your evening dose already?" He asked more to himself than to Tengan or Sleuther as he retrieved the small pouch of medicine. "Wow, time sure flies when you're trying to beat the same, simple message into a stubborn Queen." He scowled as he handed the pouch over.
"You've been doing quite well." Tengan smiled up at him as she took the small leather bag. "I'm surprised you haven't thrown your axe or broken anything yet." She half-teased as she gave Sleuther an appreciative pat before sending him back to the cluster of basking dragons.
"I promised Heather I'd keep my temper under control today." He admitted with a low grumble. "But if she insists on being this stubborn past midnight…" The threat hung unfinished in the air.
"Well, the twins think they know a way to help speed this process along." She responded as they began the slow walk back. "Ruffnut mentioned something about a tightrope. I can't imagine this is going to be very diplomatic. Their plans usually involve weapons or, considering which island we're on, more likely lava. Just don't put yourself or Mala out of commission."
"We'll see." Dagur grumbled in annoyance as the clearing came into view once more. A manic grin broke out on his face as he spied Mala perched on one end of a long rope suspended between two trees on the other end of the meeting space, a spear clutched in her hands. "Oh this, I could enjoy." He chuckled before sprinting over to the other end of the tightrope.
"Are the spears really necessary?" Tengan hissed angrily towards the twins as she watched Dagur leap onto the rope and retrieve his offered weapon from a clearly unsettled Fishlegs.
"Really? You didn't see this coming when I mentioned a tightrope?" Ruffnut asked in disbelief. "I expected more from you, Tengan." She shook her head in mock disappointment.
"First one to knock the other off the rope wins!" Tuffnut roared before taking several steps away to watch the tussle between the leaders.
Tengan glanced between Mala and Dagur, her grip on the small pouch of herbs tightening as she saw a dangerous glint pass between them. "Astrid, we need to be ready to step in if things go too far. We need both of them in fighting shape for the battles to come."
"Way ahead of you." Astrid grumbled, her eyes locked on the advancing opponents. "Do you two even know what mediation means?" The Nadder trainer spared a quick glare for the ecstatic twins.
"Yeah; the act of spending time and quiet thought on reflecting." Tuffnut answered in a deadpan, almost scholarly tone. "Usually resulting in clarity of mind and relaxed bowels."
"Close." Tengan sighed, her eyes still locked on the two advancing warriors suspended above them. "That would be meditation… mostly. Mediation refers to peacefully resolving conflicts by finding a compromise or common ground somewhere in the middle of the two opposing viewpoints."
"Oh." Ruffnut stroked her chin silently for a long moment as she pondered the new definition. "Well that CLEARLY wasn't working. So now is time for plan tightrope!" She cheered as they closed in. "Come on tightrope! Let's see some bodies flying!"
If she hadn't been so terrified of either chief snapping an arm or receiving a horrid gash, Tengan would have had a much more enjoyable time watching the pair spar. Both had incredibly sure footing as they all but danced back and forth on the line. Each time a spear would jut forward to knock its opponent off, the other would be ready to deflect, its owner twisting gracefully to maintain balance. For several long minutes they warred in near silence with only the occasional grunt of effort or mild strain.
As the match wore on, their faces began to shift from scowls and glares of frustration to acknowledging smirks and respectful nods. Finally, the spears came together and twisted down towards the rope as one, severing their unsteady platform with a clean slice. In unison, Dagur and Mala disengaged and sprang back, coming to land squarely on their feet across from one another.
"That wasn't entirely terrible." Dagur admitted with a small smile and nod towards Mala. "You've got a few good moves there Queenie."
"I must say you're fighting style is rather impressive." Mala responded with a small nod before turning to the twins. "Did you have any other exercises in mind?"
"Oh just you wait sister!" Ruffnut grinned as she began to lead Mala back across the clearing. "This next one I like to call 'The Scalding Stones of Blind Trust'!"
Dagur beamed excitedly over at Tengan before taking off after the women at a light jog. "Now that sounds positively berserk!" A joyous laugh exploded from deep within his chest as he caught up.
"The next one was supposed to be my pick!" Tuffnut whined as he tore off in pursuit of his sister. "It was supposed to be 'Trust Falls of Death'!"
"Wow." Astrid commented and she, Fishlegs and Tengan followed behind the group at a leisurely pace. "Their tightrope idea actually worked."
"Yeah." Fishlegs agreed, a bemused expression on his face. "I mean Dagur and Mala are both strong leaders with relatively headstrong ideals. It makes sense they would bond over something, well, intense."
"Right." Tengan agreed absently as she stared after Dagur and Mala, a tight smile on her face. There was something eerily familiar with the spark she had seen in Dagur's eyes as he fought, a hint of the hungry look he often gave her late at night when they were in bed together. Her gut twisted uncomfortably as Mala looked over and smiled at the Berserker chief; her eyes lingering a bit too long.
The heavy, uncomfortable writhing sensation in the pit of her stomach persisted as she watched Ruffnut's 'Scalding Stones of Blind Trust'. While a small sigh of relief escaped her each time Mala successfully guided Dagur along the stones floating in the Eruptodon's lava pit, she found herself frowning at each gentle giggle that escaped the pair. Her sour mood only darkened when the Queen's hands slid delicately along Dagur's shoulders as she directed him. His lingering smile of gratitude after the safe crossing did nothing to ease the young woman's concerns.
The 'Trust Falls of Death' warped the curly-haired Rider's concerned frown into an outright scowl. Stationed a little ways away from the volcanic cliff the twins picked out for the exercise, she could still clearly hear the playful "Caught you!" that escaped Dagur's lips as he set the blindfolded Queen on her feet. Worse was the lingering smile Mala gave him in return, the expression much too intimate for a leader acknowledging her peer.
"I can't believe this is actually working." Astrid stated in mild shock as she stared down at the pair quietly chatting in the volcano.
Fishlegs shrugged in disbelief. "Well maybe that old saying of opposites attracting really holds true. I mean, they do seem to be working incredibly well together!"
"You know I still can't believe this is actually working." Tuffnut commented in an offhand sort of way as he and Ruffnut joined the small group. "This has to be the dumbest thing we ever came up with."
"I know, right?" Ruffnut agreed with a cackle. "I mean look at those two!" She gestured down at the still smiling and laughing couple. "They're just eating it up!"
Tengan rounded on the twins, her temper threatening to boil over. As the first syllable escaped her mouth, a Terrible Terror swooped past her, missing her by a matter of inches as the tiny dragon collided with Fishlegs.
"Why is it always the face?" The Gronckle trainer grumbled as he delicately pried the dragon off his head and retrieved the scroll tied to it's leg. "Hopefully it's from Hiccup with a good reason as to why he and Snotlout are so late." Unrolling the parchment he quickly skimmed its contents, his expression shifting from annoyance to sheer horror as he finished. "The Dragon Fliers are attacking Wingmaiden Island."
Astrid spun on her heel and cupped her hands over her mouth. "Dagur! Mala! Hiccup's in trouble!"
Tengan's insides temporarily froze over and she and the others pelted full out towards the beach, desperately calling to their dragons as they ran. On the third call, Rumble appeared over the furthest line of buildings, flanked by the other dragons as they dove towards their respective charges. She quickly swung herself up into the saddle and glanced around to make sure the others were all ready to take off. Her heart skipped a beat as she caught sight of Mala settled comfortably in Sleuther's saddle, one arm looped around Dagur's waist. Her eyes narrowed as she caught sight of the Queen's content smile.
"Tengan, you should-" Dagur began as he noticed Rumble readying to take off, his eyes sparkling with worry.
Without waiting for him to finish, she urged the Skrill into the air, her face burning with frustration. "How dare he try to suggest I sit this one out." She growled down to Rumble, who hissed in response to his Rider's anger. Several times during the group's hurried flight, she changed places in formation whenever Dagur tried to direct Sleuther to hover behind, beside, or below them. Each time, she'd dive or loop out of the way to hover behind and slightly above Sleuther, her narrowed eyes fixated on Mala. Her scowl deepened each time the older woman shifted her grip on Dagur's waist and shoulders.
"Are you alright?" Astrid finally asked as she and Stormfly sidled up along the tense Skrill.
"I'm fine." Tengan quickly lied, struggling to force an impassive expression on her face as she willed her hands to unclench and her shoulders to relax.
Astrid stared between Sleuther's passengers and her clearly troubled friend for several wingbeats before continuing. "You know, as much as I miss having you at the Edge, I'm glad you're on Berserker Isle with Dagur. You two are weirdly perfect for eachother and he knows it." She spoke quietly, making sure her words only reached their intended target.
Tengan turned her attention fully to the blonde Rider, an embarrassed half smile creeping onto her face. "I'm that obvious, huh?"
Astrid smiled back. "Only to me. And if it bothers you so much, maybe make sure everyone knows where you two stand…. After we get Hiccup and Snotlout out of trouble. I need you on top of your game."
"Of course." Tengan agreed with a short, curt nod, her expression set as she wrestled down her frustration towards the overstepping queen and embarrassment at her own actions. "Let's make sure those Fliers regret ever attacking one of our allies."
As the Sun rose over the ocean, the Riders approached Wingmaiden Island in time to see a lone Wingmaiden fleeing from several Singetails. "Get ready to fire from the side while they're distracted!" Mala called out the instruction as they closed in.
"On your command!" Dagur roared, grinning ear to ear as Sleuther sped towards the unsuspecting Flier.
"Wait is that Wingmaiden… Snotlout?!" Fishlegs cried out in confusion as he watched his fellow Rider dive and roll to avoid several blasts from the lead Singetail, screaming all the while.
"So it is!" Tengan roared back, struggling with the impulse to ignore Mala's reasonable instruction out of spite. "But we'll have to ask him about that later. We've got a bit of a problem right now!" She snarled as Krogan rose up out of the treeline on his alpha Singetail, blocking the group from coming to their friend's aid.
The unmistakable whistling sound of a plasma blast cut through the air seconds before the brilliantly blue bolt crashed into Krogan and his dragon, sending the Singetail stumbling in the air as it struggled to right itself.
"Now!" Mala roared as their target presented an exposed side to the waiting Riders. A cheer ripped through her as Sluether responded with a blast of his own, hitting almost exactly where Toothless had struck moments before.
Tengan found her gaze momentarily ripped away from the leader of the Fliers as one of his men soared past them, jerking and writhing as a hatchling Razorwhip carried him into the nearest pine before releasing it's iron-like grip. "Clever." She murmured to herself while making a mental note to ask Hiccup and Snotlout about the mechanics of weaponizing baby dragons in the near future.
"You sure you want to pick this fight today Krogan?" Hiccup taunted as he and Toothless took their place at the head of the pack. "It seems you're a bit outnumbered at the moment."
The sight was not lost on Krogan, who chanced glancing away at the flock of angry dragons and Riders to glance around. Noticing nearly all of his Flier had been plucked from their dragons, he scowled at the group before harshly yanking his dragon around and quickly fleeing into the rising Sun's light.
"We make a pretty good team!" Dagur and Mala observed simultaneously before sharing a light bark of laughter. "I can't believe we ever argued!" Dagur commented brightly.
"Nor can I, Dagur the Deranged." Mala agreed as she laid a gentle hand on his upper arm.
"De-Ranged!" Dagur chuckled as he attempted to mimic the Queen's accent. "It sounds so royal when you say it!"
"Talk to him." Astrid commented sharply as she flew Stormfly directly across Tengan's line of sight. "I hate seeing you make that face."
"What face?" The Scribe countered weakly as she forced her scowl to resemble something more appealing. Catching Astrid's unconvinced glare, she nodded slowly. "Once we land, I'll talk to him." She promised. As the group touched among the thankfully unharmed group of Wingmaidens, she slid carefully out of the saddle, giving Rumble an appreciative pat as he pressed his belly flat against the earth to shorten the distance for her. With a short, determined huff she marched over to Sleuther, who had crouched low to let his laughing riders dismount with ease.
Hearing her approach, Dagur turned towards Tengan, a large grin on his face. "Did you see-" His question sharply cut off as he was quickly yanked forward by the front of his breastplate, his lips crashing into Tengan's in a sudden kiss. After a quick, muffled noise of surprise, he melted into the display of affection, his arms coming up to wrap around her waist.
With a cocky smirk, she pressed deeper into the kiss and slid her arms up and over his shoulders. As the murmured conversations around the couple abruptly halted, she nipped rather roughly at his lower lip before withdrawing, her eyes momentarily flicking to Mala's stunned expression.
"What was that for?" Dagur asked with a lopsided grin. "Not that I'm complaining." He growled into her ear as his fingers dug into the flesh of her hips.
"Is now really the time for all this?" Hiccup called out to the embracing pair, his exasperation, exhaustion and waning patience all abundantly clear. "We chased the Fliers off but there's still a lot to do. Where did you decide to hide the other Dragon Eye lenses?"
"Actually, we haven't yet." Mala responded, her voice slightly uneven as she forced herself to focus only on Hiccup. "Dagur and I were in the midst of…. debating which of our two islands was the better hiding place."
"So are you going to answer my question?" Dagur hummed into Tengan's ear as he gently turned the smaller woman so they both faced the discussion. His hands trailed absentmindedly towards her stomach and came to rest on the small bump.
Tengan leaned back against him, a triumphant smile fixed in place. "I just missed you today is all." She responded airily, her hands coming up to rest over her lover's. "I had gotten used to having your attention on me." She admitted quietly, grateful for her darker skin as it hid the embarrassed flush that was climbing up her neck.
After the exhausting trek, short but intense battle, and yet another night of no sleep, there was little argument when Hiccup suggested the lenses be stored on Wingmaiden Island. His argument was sound enough. The Fliers temporarily had control of the island when they attacked and were unable to locate any during their short rule. It stood to reason they would have no desire to double back. Besides, the deep, dark cave the Wingmaidens chose was only accessible if you flew either directly over their base or past the aggressive den of nesting Razorwhips.
As the morning wore on, Tengan found herself hovering near her betrothed whenever she wasn't actively catching up with her friends or taking notes on Hiccup and Snotlout recounting of their recent adventure. Several times she caught Mala staring with open confusion and mild disappointment as Dagur bent to kiss the top of her head and struggled not to look too pleased with herself. When he asked Hiccup to join the pair on a short walk to discuss a private manner, she had to fight a smug grin as he slid a protective arm around her waist.
"Brother, I have something very important to ask you." Dagur began after they had appropriately distanced themselves from the group. Withdrawing his arm, he glanced down at the ground, wringing his hands in nervous anticipation. "I, well I mean to say, we" He gestured towards Tengan, a weak smile briefly returning to his features. "Have been thinking a lot about our upcoming ceremony and I need to know." He dropped to one knee and desperately grabbed at Hiccup's hand. "Would you do the honor of being my best viking?"
Hiccup glanced nervously between Dagur's nervously hopeful face and Tengan's bemused and slightly confused grin. "Uh, sure. O-Of course." He finally stammered out with a half smile.
Roaring with joy, Dagur swept the smaller man into a tight embrace and bounced on his feet, laughter echoing across the beach. "Oh Hiccup! You've made me so happy!" With one final squeeze, he set Hiccup down and placed his hands on both shoulders, staring the other man down as his smile faded into a serious glare. "I'll need you to take on your most important responsibility as my best viking right away."
"And what exactly are his responsibilities?" Tengan asked lightly as she eyed the pair, fighting a wave of laughter at Hiccup's confused expression. "I've never heard of a 'best viking' before. Neither you nor Astrid mentioned it when I asked about Berkian Union Ceremonies last year, Hiccup."
"Well, it's a pretty old custom that not everyone follows nowadays. Usually, it's a warrior trusted by the couple to defend their ceremony from any enemies that might try to destroy or sabotage their union." Hiccup explained with an exasperated smile. "Although, in the last couple generations it's mostly been an honorary title if the couple even chooses to designate one."
"Really, I never told you?" Dagur turned to face his beloved, his head cocked to the side. "Could have sworn I explained it a couple days ago when we were talking about the guest list. Anyways, Hiccup is right. Well, mostly right. This is no honorary title, brother. I need you to help Heather keep an eye on Tengan and our child for the next three weeks."
"Woah woah, hold on Dagur." Tengan stepped in, her brow knitting in frustration and confusion. "What do you mean by that? Our plan was to join the summit and then travel to the Shimmering Shores together while Heather led the Berserkers in your stead. My mother has no idea we've decided to move the ceremony up or even who her new son is to be! Let alone knowledge of our child!"
Dagur smiled, his expression pained as he slowly released Hiccup to gather her hands in his. "Baby, things have to happen a little sooner than we wanted. I know you were really looking forward to visiting your homeland, and I was excited to see it, but we can't right now." He sighed heavily, his expression pained. "I hate to do this to you, but I need you to stay on Berserker Isle for the next three weeks while I finish the preparations."
Tengan snatched her hands away and glared at the two men; reserving the majority of her anger for Dagur after seeing Hiccup's look of utter confusion. "And just where will you be while I'm restricted to our island like a helpless child?" Her volume and pitch rose as she spoke.
Undeterred, Dagur closed the gap between them, his hands gripping desperately onto her upper arms. "There are some things I need to do before the ceremony, things that, if everything were normal, I wouldn't hesitate to have you with me. I meant what I said before; I never want to be so far away that I can't protect you both. But look, Tengan;" He gestured to the still smoking and blackened shells of the Wingmaiden's base. "Those Fliers destroyed this place and nearly killed everyone here because they thought a lens might have been hidden on the island. This war is getting, well, berserk." He chuckled dryly at his own joke. "And you know how much I enjoy a good, bloody battle. But you mean more to me. And I'd never forgive myself if you were attacked while we made our way south."
"And what of my family? My people?" She asked quietly, the homesick pang in her voice ringing forth clear as day. "Are we to leave them in the dark of our union and the threat that might storm their shores?"
Hiccup stepped in, clearing his throat. "I don't think they're in any immediate danger so long as the Fliers are looking for the King of Dragons. Tengan, I have to agree with Dagur on this one." He flinched at her dark glare. "The two of you flying down to them now would certainly draw them after you. Although, I fail to see why you need three weeks to prepare a small ceremony, Dagur." He added quickly, his gaze flicking to the Berserker chief.
"Who said anything about it being small?" The fiery-haired viking began with a shrug. "Berserks go all out all the time." His gaze tracked back to the still scowling woman before him. "I want to give you the best Union Ceremony the archipelago has ever seen!" He smiled hopefully down at her as he slowly recaptured her hands. "So? Will you do as I ask, or do I have to lock you in that cell on Outcast Island?"
Tengan growled under her breath as she glared evenly back at him, well aware the fatigue from another missed night of sleep seemed to be eating away at the more rational side of her brain. "You still haven't told me exactly where you'll be for those three weeks." She weakly argued, trying to find a foothold that would allow her argument to take hold.
Dagur smirked down at her, sensing the conversation had begun to shift in his favor. "And I'm not going to. I know you too well. You'd follow me the moment the others had their backs turned if I told you."
She glared at the two men for a long moment, well aware Dagur initiated the conversation now in order to take full advantage of her exhausted state. "Three weeks from tomorrow and not a day more." She eventually acquiesced. "If you're even half a day late, Rumble and I are coming after you, Fliers or no Fliers." She held a hand up to delay his response as she continued. "And, the day after we eliminate Johann once and for all, no matter how far along I am, we're going straight down to the Shimmering Shores. A bonded partner and a swollen belly is one thing; I refuse to spring you and a newborn on my mother at the same time."
A/N: No chapter next week. My parents are coming to visit so I won't have the time to dedicate it deserves. I'll have it up the following Sat/Sun Oct 10/11. But it'll be a good one, I promise! We're finally getting to Tengan and Dagur's union ceremony!