Oh my goodness! Over 80 followers now! You guys are awesome! The reviews from last chapter were great. Seems everyone wants Astrid to leave with Hiccup. Guess you'll just have to read on and find out.

CB73: I have something very special planned for Hadrian, but I can't really confirm yet whether or not you will see the full dealio in this story. Maybe it will be in the next one instead. I have laid out the timeline of things quite strategically though, so you might be able to guess, with some research of course...lol. Then again, maybe not ;P

Rainnnn: I am sure that I don't know what you are talking about ;) Also, I realized that others will be wondering what the answer to your previous question was, so I'll put it up here. As of right now, the total word count for this story is sitting at almost 118,000.

Mariah: Thanks for the review. As for Snotlout and Astrid, you'll just have to wait and see.

This story is rated M, so I shouldn't really have to warn you, but I will. There is likely some sexually explicit language ahead. Enjoy ;)

Just a note before you read too far, or get too concerned. It has been 5 years since Hiccup left Berk. He is 20, and Astrid is 19. No underage funny stuff here! :P Even if real people do it all the time...

This chapter's title came from the song 'I Should Go' by Levi Kreis and I think it's a pretty darn fitting song.

_

Hiccup had been distracted and restless since last night. During their morning flight he had been so uncoordinated that he had missed a crucial tail change and crashed he and Toothless into a sea stack; just like his first day flying. It was honestly a bit embarrassing, and he thanked his lucky stars that no one was around to see. Toothless had promptly smacked him on the thigh with an ear flap, but it was no good. He could barely focus and Toothless decided to just give up and land on the next pillar. Giving Hiccup an accusing glare while Hiccup tried to act like he didn't know what was wrong with him.

Of course it was a lie. Both he and Toothless knew exactly what was wrong with him. It was the same thing that had caused him so much trouble when he was a young boy on Berk. The only difference was the mature nature of his distracting thoughts. 14-year-old Hiccup could have never dreamed up these images. To voice it was to make it absolute though, so he was fighting it as hard as he could.

It shouldn't be affecting him like this, though! After all, Hiccup was no stranger to the female form. Bedmates were not very hard to find in the capital, and more than a few nobleman's wives and daughters had enjoyed the thrill of a tumble between the sheets with the Dragon Master. Hiccup being more inclined to allow these women to share his bed as he knew they would take necessary precautions. They wouldn't risk losing their social status and winding up on the streets just for a mercenary, no matter how dangerous and enticing he was. The feeling being completely mutual, as Hiccup had no intention of letting them tie him down either.

At first, Hiccup had been both surprised and confused in equal measure when the ladies of Rome began to chase him. Especially the wealthy ladies of the courts. Sure he might be less of a runt now, but he was still a scrawny nobody with messy hair and an attitude problem. What could a beautiful woman with high status possibly want from the village loser? He had been convinced they only liked him because of Toothless. It took well into his 17th year before Hiccup finally realized the ladies actually found him attractive.

At just over six feet tall by the age of 18, he had admittedly been something of an imposing figure in the southern lands where the average height of men was 5'9" or less. His once gangly limbs filling out nicely thanks to all the time spent training, fighting, and riding with Toothless. His slender frame gradually gaining a solid build of lean muscle that might even make his father proud. The angles of his face becoming sharper and more defined as well, as the boyish roundness of youth faded. Even the exotic tattoo which he had hidden for years now marked him out as a dangerous and intriguing foreigner, and he started taking every chance he got to flaunt it at the courts and public bathhouses. He may never look like a 'proper Viking', but standing tall and strong beside his fire breathing brother now, at least Hiccup no longer felt weak, useless, or undesirable.

Much like the gladiators that they fawned over in the arena, the nobles had fantasized and gossiped about Hiccup too. In Rome, it seemed the more brutal a man was, the more interesting he was. As Hadrian's favourite though, Hiccup had also boasted a certain level of status within the courts that the gladiators didn't. The ladies had seen the ruthless mercenary as a perfect way to explore their racier desires without shame, for he was no lowly slave. Ever the gentleman, Hiccup was more than happy to oblige them. Discovering a few of his own much darker tendencies along the way, and expanding and perfecting his skills with each willing body that crossed his doorstep.

Yes, he had desired beautiful women. Yes, he had bedded them when they allowed him to, which admittedly was more often than not. A handsome face paired with just the right amount of danger seemed to be the weak link for many women. Yes, Hiccup had certainly learned how to work his gifts to his advantage by now, but it was purely as a way to satisfy urges. It was never anything more than that. An itch that needed to be scratched. Afterwards he just wanted them to leave him alone. His heart was never in it.

He was never cruel to them of course. Still treating each one with the proper respect due whenever he saw them at the palace afterwards, but he was also carefully reserved and aloof at the same time. Making it blatantly clear that he was not interested in looking for something more, as he had never pined for a woman to fill his heart or his home. Had never suffered the irritating distraction of wanting something that he couldn't have.

Not since he had left Berk and Astrid behind that is. As much as he may try to deny it, Hiccup still wanted her. In ways that he knew he shouldn't. He was sure that he could entice her into giving herself to him if he so chose. The way she had responded to those gifts last night hinting that it might not even take that much effort on his part. He would never do that to Astrid, though. She was not his to take, and Hiccup doubted he would be able to leave his heart out of it this time anyways.

Astrid was not some downtrodden wife just hoping to feel wanted for a few hours. She was a strong and beautiful Valkyrie that deserved a husband who could devote every moment of his life to her. As much as he may want to, Hiccup knew he could not be that man right now. He was leaving tonight and couldn't take her with him. For whatever reason, mortal humans were not permitted in Asgard. Something which Hiccup hadn't thought would bother him until this moment. Although, once I meet this mysterious council, I'll probably be able to come right back here. Then maybe Astrid and I could...

No. He would lock away these lewd thoughts and just enjoy their last day together as friends. He needed some small shred of his life to remain untainted by darkness. Something beautiful and good to hold onto and remember. Besides, just because Astrid had been unexpectedly happy to see him didn't mean she had any desire to jump into bed with him. Climbing back onto the saddle, Hiccup struggled to turn his thoughts down a lighter, more innocent path as they flew back towards the cove. He would not chance ruining their newly formed friendship by forcing his inappropriate feelings on her.

Unless she wants me to be inappropriate, Hiccup mused wryly. Imagining again the curves of her body pressed tight to his as she kissed him last night. Her perfectly soft lips crushed against his mouth as her hands clutched at his armour. Toothless huffed in a disgruntled way then. Sensing his brother's emotions through their bond and Hiccup sighed. There went all his plans to not think of her that way. Apparently he would have to resort to a dip in the freezing cold pond once they got back to the cove if he was to have any hope of behaving himself today. Toothless rasping a laugh of agreement as Hiccup grimaced at the unpleasant thought.

*

That morning, Astrid awoke strangely excited. Her face felt flushed and she was sure her eyes were over-bright. Avoiding her mother, she rushed through her morning chores at top speed. As soon as she was done she returned to her room. There, she promptly holstered her beautiful new axe on her back before taking off towards the forest.

Ever conscious of her surroundings. Astrid entered on the opposite side of the village and doubled back. Just in case anyone was watching. Once she was sure she was alone though, she took off at a run. The pendant beneath her tunic bouncing gently against her chest with each step. Darting through the cove entrance without pause again, before suddenly skidding to a stop as she came out the other side.

There was Hiccup standing near the edge of the pond. He was rummaging in a pile of clothes and armour that lay beside him, and he was dripping wet. Nothing but a swath of leather slung low around his hips. His back was to her and as he stood up she got a glimpse of a large tattoo. It was unmistakably a night fury. Its body covering most of his back as its huge wings spread open across his shoulders. The long tail curving at the base of his spine, and continuing around to the front of his abdomen. It was incredible.

She had no idea where he had gotten such a thing, but it must have taken forever. The pain would have been immense. As if in a trance, she began to walk towards him. A strange longing to run her fingers over the design carrying her feet forward, almost on their own. She must have made some sort of noise though because he suddenly whipped around. Clutching his towel closed as his eyes widened in shock.

"ASTRID! Oh gods! I'm sorry! I didn't think you'd be here this early. I was just..."

Hiccup motioned vaguely towards the pond and his pile of clothes, blushing crimson. Astrid only now realizing just how appealing she found his combination of wide shoulders and narrow hips. The slender body concealed under his armour clearly much more powerful than one would assume at first glance. Each ridge and bump beneath his pale skin seeming smoothly chiseled and angular, instead of swollen and bulbous. It was much more attractive than the rectangular, heavy set, and overly muscled men she was normally surrounded by.

As she took a moment to appreciate the well defined muscles of his upper body, Astrid noticed that there was a strange amulet hanging from a leather chord around his neck. Pretending that she was studying this instead of him, she shrugged nonchalantly. Congratulating herself on keeping her voice steady as she said, "it's no bother. I am a little early. I didn't have that many chores this morning."

*

Hiccup blushed again as he felt her eyes brushing over his torso and he reached out to read her unguarded thoughts. Expecting her to be angry or shocked. Then he had to fight back a groan at her obvious appreciation for his new physique, instead. So she finally finds me attractive, now that I'm trying to behave myself. Yep, this is definitely going to help control my male urges...

Then he realized that she was staring at his pendant. That distracted him for a moment. He had been wearing the necklace from Bríghid ever since he had left for Rome. Now Hiccup wondered if that was why Odin couldn't 'see' him. She had said it would protect him from those that wanted to harm or control him. Whatever that meant. Setting this puzzle aside until later, he turned his attention back to Astrid.

"I'm afraid you have me at quite a disadvantage. Could you perhaps turn around so that I could get dressed?" After a moment's hesitation she did as he asked. When he told her it was safe to look again, Astrid turned back just as he was rubbing the towel over his hair, and he smiled at her to try and ease the awkwardness. "So, did you have any major plans for the day? I thought you might want to go for a ride on Toothless. It has been a long time."

She agreed and soon they were up in the air. Astrid seated behind him and her arms wrapped tight around his waist while her thighs clung to either side of his body. Her chin resting on his shoulder. Causing her warm breath to ghost over his neck. This position was not helping his focus, but he did his best to block it from his mind. Trying desperately to ignore the feel of her soft breasts being crushed against his back as she pressed herself against him. Did she really have to hold him so tight?

She hadn't said much after finding him naked in the cove and that had him worried. Had he offended her? Hiccup hoped not, as it really had not been on purpose. Still, he resisted the urge to check her thoughts again. If her thoughts were straying down the same path they had been earlier instead, he did not want to know about it.

They glided and twirled in lazy loops through the clouds for a while. Simply enjoying the scenery and each other's company. When he figured she might be starting to get cold, Hiccup told Toothless to land on a nearby island for a rest. After a bite to eat around a small campfire Astrid finally seemed to relax a bit and began talking and joking with him again. The same easy friendship of the night before working to ease the tension between them.

It was a quick trip back to the cove after that. Hiccup figured that she would just head home now, since it was getting late. He found that he really didn't want her to go despite knowing that she had to. Her family may come looking for her if she didn't return tonight. Astrid seemed equally as unwilling to leave. She glanced up at the darkening sky; stars just beginning to appear on the horizon amid the purple and orange sunset. Looking back at him, she blushed and began to shuffle her feet awkwardly.

She was probably waiting for him to say something meaningful, but he was having a hard time forming coherent thoughts with the way she looked in the fading light. Why did the building shadows have to accentuate every subtle curve under her clothes? Making him ache to explore every beautiful inch of them. The monster inside yearning to feast on her purity until she was as corrupt as him. Introduce this creature of light to the wonders of the dark side.

She was like a goddess sent to ruin him, and here he had been so fucking careful all day. Keeping his thoughts and actions as innocently friendly as he could manage. Not looking at her too long. Worried she might read the desire in his eyes. Now he was fighting desperately against the longing to reach out and pull her close again. Resisting the urge to use all the tricks in his arsenal to persuade her to lose herself to him. To allow him to take her down a darker path from which there is no return.

He knew she would let him, too. It would be so simple. Some whispered words and tender kisses. A few gentle caresses to the right sensitive spots. The slightest brush of magic just to calm her nerves, and then she would be putty in his capable hands...

Hoping to redirect his errant and dangerous thoughts, and keep her from thinking she needed to talk about this afternoon, he offered her an out. "You should go. It's getting late."

Of course, she didn't take it. "When did you get your tattoo," Astrid finally asked. Blushing and looking away a moment later. Damn, so they were going to talk about it. Resigning himself to making them both uncomfortable before he left, Hiccup answered her as best he could.

"That appeared the moment I bonded with Toothless. It's not ink, but is instead burned into my skin. It marks me out as a bonded rider and not just some man riding a dragon. I don't really understand it, but I've had it for five years now. I guess I've gotten used to it. Besides, it's mostly on my back. I really don't see it that often." He allowed a smirk at this.

Surprised, Astrid exclaimed, "you had THAT before you left Berk? How did I not see it before?" Hiccup just laughed.

"Well, in your defence this is the first time I have had my clothes off around you." Hurriedly he added, "I hope you know that I did not mean to do that. It was inappropriate and I'm sorry if I made you uncomfortable."

Astrid looked back at him, seeming to consider something very hard. Hiccup could see in her eyes the exact moment when she made up her mind. Steeling herself and reaching up to finger her new pendant through her tunic, she met his gaze head-on. He sensed the direction of her thoughts, but he refused to believe it. The desires had to simply be his stressed and battle-weary mind projecting its own feelings towards her.

She moved a step closer to him then. Casting her eyes downward as a blush rose to colour her cheeks. "Do you think I could see it again? Your tattoo, I mean! I didn't get a very good look at it before."

He knew it was a terrible idea. He was already letting his thoughts stray dangerously, but he just couldn't seem to deny her anything. It's not as if it really matters if she sees me again with my shirt off, Hiccup told himself as he removed his bracers and breastplate. Besides, it's likely a completely innocent gesture to her. With a resigned sigh and barely a glance in her direction, he turned his back to her and pulled his tunic off.

For a moment, Astrid just stood there. Hiccup forcefully resisting the urge to look back at her, unsure how he would handle the sight of either desire or disgust on her face. Then he felt the warmth of her nearness as she reached out to run her hands over the charcoal black design. The feel of her soft finger pads brushing against his bare skin was indescribable, as he simply stood there and ignored the tingling fire racing beneath his skin. Acting as if it was no big deal that she was touching him like this.

She might as well be carving gashes into me with her nails, Hiccup mused blandly. Gritting his teeth painfully and fighting back against the growing desire that was now flooding through him. His less-than-innocent urges overwhelming his sensible mind as he desperately tried to avoid the awkward display of arousal that he knew was only moments away. He was so distracted by his own struggles that he didn't even notice her moving closer to him. Then he felt what was surely the warm touch of soft lips against his shoulder and froze in shock.

Certain his libido was playing a very cruel trick on him, Hiccup started to turn around as he took a step away from her. Trying to give himself room to breathe. Trying to remember if he had slipped up and done something to deliberately push her in this direction. Astrid quickly closed the gap between them and put her arms around his bare waist. Her skin cool against his as she looked up into his face with devastating innocence. He couldn't take it. He was hyperventilating. He needed to get out of here before he did something he would regret.

She leaned up on her toes and pressed her lips to his. Of its own accord, he felt his body respond to her touch and her closeness. His lewd desires for much more than friendship on full display. Now she would know that his feelings were no longer innocent. Panicking, Hiccup pulled away roughly and took another step back from her. He needed to get control of himself and the beast within. She didn't know what she was doing to him.

To his horror, Astrid's lovely face crumpled and she burst into tears. Surprised at the direction of her unguarded thoughts, Hiccup reached out towards her and caught her hand just as she made to run away. "What's wrong, Astrid? What did I do?" He was practically begging, though he already knew. Desperately wanting to fix this fragile moment he had broken. He couldn't let her leave like this; thinking that it was her fault. Surely she had noticed his traitor body's reaction to her?

"You didn't do anything Hiccup. I just... Need to go. I thought maybe.." She seemed to be struggling to find the words. "I guess I was wrong. I... I'm sorry." She tried to tug her arm out of his grip, but quick as a flash Hiccup had pulled her back towards him and crushed her in his embrace.

She really let loose now, but he had expected this. He held her tight until her sobs quieted. Once he was confident that she wasn't going to bolt the second he loosened his grip, Hiccup finally removed one arm from around her and placed a gentle finger under her chin instead. Tilting her head up so she would meet his eyes.

*

The gesture was so painfully familiar that it almost brought on a new round of hysteria. What was wrong with her, Astrid wondered. She had never been this emotional. Not ever! Then again, she had also never allowed herself to be this vulnerable. She was fragile as spun glass waiting to be shattered in his hands.

"You really think that I don't want you," Hiccup asked her gently.

"Well I don't know. I've never done this before and I'm not sure what to do or how it should feel. I'm terrified and overwhelmed, and you backed away from me, and..."

He silenced her with a firm, but gentle kiss. Her lips following his as he slowly broke it. Leaning only far enough away to look into her eyes again. "Astrid, I've liked you for as long as I can remember. I backed away because I want you far too much. More than I should. You haven't been down this road, but I have and I know exactly where it goes. There's no going back afterwards."

Her heart had warmed at his words. He really did want her! She was about to argue that this was her decision to make, when he cut across her. "I would ruin you forever, Astrid. You would lose your honour if anyone was to find out, along with your ability to marry and have a family; and I would still have to leave. We both know that you can't just up and leave your whole life to come with me. Gods I would give my left foot to have you for even one night, but then where would we be? Satisfied in the moment, but left with a world of guilt in the morning. No, it's best if I just go before I let myself do something I know you will regret."

He made to release her and step away, but she clutched at him. The feel of smooth skin over hard muscle making the heat flare in her core again. Her mind was made up. She wanted it too much now, wanted him too much now, no matter what he said. She couldn't let him go. Not now that she knew he wanted her too. Besides, it was her risk to take. She was sick of people telling her what she should and shouldn't do. Was she really the type of girl that did everything she was told?

No, she certainly wasn't. He was right about the risk, though. Was she really the type who would chance losing everything for one night of forbidden pleasure? Looking up into his gorgeous emerald eyes, she realized that she was. She could do this!

"Hiccup, please. I want this. I want you and I have wanted you for a long time. I just never knew how to tell you. I didn't understand my feelings until it was too late. I'm not as innocent as you may believe. I know the risk, but I have nothing else to give to you other than myself. My gift to you is my maidenhead, if you want it. It was always going to be yours anyways. You can leave with the knowledge that you are my first, and will remain my only."

*

Hiccup was trembling uncontrollably as he took in her words. Could she really want this? Was she truly sure? Is this all just some sort of torturous dream? He had told the truth when he had said this may ruin her if anyone was to find out.

Chastity was a very important factor for the woman during a marriage contract. She would effectively be worth nothing to her family. There could be no bride price if it was discovered she was not pure. She may even be cast out of the tribe. Was he willing to risk that?

"Please Hiccup," Astrid practically sobbed, and that was it. He couldn't fight it anymore. Gods knew he wanted it. It was stupid and selfish, but maybe that was just the man he was now. Honestly, he had spent the last four years doing things that were considered improper and immoral by most people. Who was he to decide what was right or wrong?

Right and wrong according to whom, anyway? He was sick of black and white. It didn't even really exist. Everything was actually just varying shades of grey. He had seen enough of humanity by now to know that those who made the rules, rarely followed them.

Hiccup pulled her to him almost roughly then as his lips sought hers. This kiss was not gentle. It was greedy and full of pent up emotion. Her lips parting under the pressure and returning the passion as his arms crushed her body against his. Her hands running up his abs and over his chest, causing his stomach to clench with desire. Finally wrapping them around the back of his neck to pull herself in even closer.

He allowed his tongue to invade her mouth. Showing her what to do and coaxing her to follow his lead, as he began to slowly raise her tunic with trembling hands. The taste of her along with the hesitating way she explored him back was incredibly erotic. He paused for her permission before drawing the fabric up and over her head. Then he slid his hands up her spine to the ties of her breast bindings, loving how small and feminine she felt.

Holding her gaze with his, he loosened and then unwound the simple fabric binding. Letting the cloth drop to the grass as his eyes roved over the Valkyrie before him. Painfully beautiful in her blushing, nervous innocence. None of the women of Rome could compare to this goddess.

Bringing one hand up to cup her face, Hiccup leaned in to kiss her again. Gentler this time. More controlled, as she wound her arms around his shoulders again. His other arm pulling her close before skimming up her side to gently caress her supple breast. The peak taught and sensitive under his hand. As he began to gently circle it with his fingers, Hiccup felt her moan against his mouth. His erection pulsing painfully inside his tight trousers as the sound cut through him.

He could feel her shivering in her nervousness, but she did not shy away from him. Leaning into his touch instead, and silently begging for more. Bearing more of her weight on the arms she had around his shoulders as her knees grew weak. Sliding his hand slowly back down over her hourglass side, Hiccup traced around to the base of her spine. Gently brushing his fingertips over the sensitive indents beside it and revelling in her gasp as her body arched towards his. Her soft breasts pressing against his naked chest. Then, wrapping his arm tightly around her, he began to slowly lower her to the ground with him.

Astrid's senses were overwhelmed. She was shivering, yet she felt as if she was fever hot. Almost without realizing how it had happened, she was suddenly lying on the grass with Hiccup above her. His hips nestled between her thighs and she couldn't believe how right it felt. When he released her mouth and began to trail hot kisses along her jaw, she felt goosebumps rise on her skin.

His hands brushing over her were trailing lines of fire in their wake. Burning her in the most wonderful way. Her hips instinctively lifting to grind against the bulge in his trousers, wringing a strangled groan from him as he returned the pressure. The ropey muscles of his back chording and bunching deliciously under her hands as he moved. The already strong ache in her core flaring almost painfully as she ran her fingers greedily over his beautiful body.

His sensual mouth was making its agonizingly slow way down her neck and over her chest. Every tender kiss sending another spike of need to the growing ache inside her. Then he slid one hand down over her stomach to rub against her through her leggings as he took one pink bud between his teeth, nibbling gently. A wave of pleasure shot through her as another wanton moan escaped her lips.

Her hands strayed up to lock her fingers in his auburn mane now as her back arched. Bringing her breasts closer to his hot mouth. The new sensations taking hold and guiding her body to seek out his. Her legs locking around him to pull him closer. Wanting more of him pressed against her. Licks of hot and cold fire alternating under her skin.

She couldn't get enough of his hands on her. The feel of his mouth exploring and tasting her. She never imagined that it would feel like this. No matter how many times she dreamed about it. The gossiping women on wash day had never done it justice.

The sounds she was making were almost embarrassing, but he seemed to enjoy them. Using her moans and gasps to guide him, reading her body like a book. She couldn't have stopped now, even if she wanted to. There was a hungry fire that she had never known building inside of her. Craving his touch. Wanting him to take her even higher.

He brought his hands around to the waist of her skirt as he teased her. Seeming determined to taste every inch of her bare skin before this night was over. It was clouding her already fevered mind. She didn't even notice him undoing the ties of her leggings, until he moved away to shimmy her bottoms off of her. Stopping to make sure she was okay with it. In response, she raised her hips to help him, suddenly wanting nothing more than to be free of the constricting fabric separating them.

He drew them down her legs, trailing gentle kisses behind them. Finally pulling them off her feet and tossing them aside. As he kneeled above her, she suddenly felt extremely shy and exposed. She had never really given much thought to her looks before now. Nervously, she looked up into Hiccup's lust-hooded eyes, and froze as her breath caught in her throat.

Astrid had never imagined a man looking at her that way as she willingly let them. Hiccup was gazing down at her naked body hungrily, as if he was a ravenous wolf about to devour her. It sent an unexpected jolt of aching heat through the already raging inferno inside her. It also terrified her for a minute. He looked almost like a draugr about to set upon a virgin sacrifice.

Then she snapped herself out of it. This was Hiccup. He would never hurt her. As if reading her thoughts, he smiled gently at her. The gesture seeming to soften the predatory gleam in his green eyes as he said, "gods Astrid. You're so beautiful."

She felt another blush rise in her cheeks as he knelt over her again. Claiming her mouth as he allowed his hands to roam over her bare skin, causing her to shiver and pant. She could taste the salty flavour of her sweat on his lips and her muscles clenched. She needed something, but she didn't know what. The ache in her centre was painfully present now. When he slid his fingers inside her a moment later, she sucked in a shallow breath as her hips bucked up against his hand.

The instant relief was all-consuming as the painful ache switched abruptly to burning pleasure. He was stoking the strange fire inside her. At any minute she felt as if she might actually burst into flames. She ground herself wantonly against his hand, begging for more as he teased and stretched her. The sweet pain of desire building low in her belly as she cried his name in silent sobs to the night.

Her body seemed to be acting of its own accord now. Driven by some base instinct she hadn't known she had. Her nails clutching desperately at any part of his bare skin she could reach as a strange feeling of pressure grew inside her. Yearning to be released. She was riding his fingers with an almost desperate need, crying out as she lost herself to his touch.

Just as she felt her body teetering on some sort of precipice, he drew his fingers slowly out of her. Her muscles clenching against the emptiness that now felt wrong. Wondering why he had stopped, she looked up into his face. He met her gaze as he slowly licked the slick moisture from his hand. Her eyes flew wide at the sight. Holy shit! She let out a lewd gasp of desire as he sat back and began to remove his own trousers.

Hiccup was watching her writhe and moan beneath him and it was all he could do to hold himself back. He had seen the momentary flash of fear in her mind when he had briefly allowed the predator to shine through. The beast inside wanted to ravage her, but he couldn't. Reining it back in quickly, Hiccup was in complete control now and focused solely on her. This was all new and terrifying for her. Yet somehow, she was choosing to trust him, and he would not ruin that.

Unfortunately, he hadn't been entirely able to resist tasting her sweet pleasure on his fingers, but thankfully Astrid hadn't seemed to mind. The look in her eyes as she watched him had been an intoxicating mixture of surprise and lust. Satisfied that he had brought her close enough to the edge, now Hiccup just wanted to bury himself in her. Finally free from the uncomfortable confines of his painfully tight trousers, he settled himself back between her thighs. Locking his green eyes on her blue ones, he gave her one last chance to change her mind.

"Astrid, are you sure you want to do this? We can stop now with very few consequences, but once I go any further..." He allowed the sentence to hang in the air. Almost worried that she would change her mind, but knowing that if she did, he would let her. No matter how uncomfortable it would be for him. She simply met his gaze for a moment before drawing him to her and kissing him hard. Muttering, "please Hiccup. I want this," against his lips.

When he lined himself up and slid into her, it was almost too much for him. She was so wet and tight that he nearly lost his head again. Almost forgetting that it was not so nice for her. He heard her sharp intake of breath and felt her nails dig into his back then as the new and unexpected sensation took over. Her pain bringing him forcefully back to himself.

Looking down at her again, he asked, "are you alright?" She nodded, and he gave her a few moments to grow accustomed to the feeling. "If I hurt you, you need to tell me," Hiccup told her seriously. Astrid nodded again and bit her lip adorably before reaching up to pull his face back down to hers. Taking that as his cue, he began to move inside her. Slowly drawing out, before pushing back in. Repeating this exaggerated motion over and over as he gradually brought her from pain to pleasure. All the while, the torturous rhythm mixed with her mewling cries was continuing to drive him crazy with need.

She locked her ankles around his thighs and drew him in closer. Her hips raising to meet his were hesitant and slightly off rhythm at first, but she quickly found her courage. Her hands running over his chest and stomach as she gave herself to him completely. Her eyes closed as she tossed her head from side to side, crying out to the gods. He could feel the telling quiver of her walls as she got close to the edge again and picked up his pace. Thrusting deeper and faster as she cried out his name and dug her nails into his back. Leaving trails of sweet pain in their wake.

At last, with a loud cry, Astrid clenched tight around him as she came. Her first orgasm stealing her breath as she shuddered and clung to him. Hiccup watched with satisfaction for a moment as she broke apart. Leaning down to run his tongue over the delicate indent as the base of her beautiful throat. Wanting to remember the taste of her forever. Her pulsing walls and ragged cries of ecstasy taking him over the edge with her and he swiftly pulled out of her with a groan before finally releasing his own pleasure.

*

As her shattered pieces started coming back together, Astrid became aware of Hiccup above her. His hands fisted in her hair. He was trembling slightly. The muscles in his back and arms twitching and flexing as he used his body to shield her sweaty skin from the chill night air. Though he was supporting most of his weight on his elbows, what he did have on her felt comforting and right.

As if he could sense her gaze, Hiccup suddenly lifted his head to look at her and she smiled. The answering grin he gave her was silly and lopsided, but it hit her like a dagger in the heart. Gods, he's adorable! Fully content to stay in this moment, Astrid simply trailed her hands up his back to card her fingers through his hair. Hiccup letting his eyes briefly drift closed at her touch. Then he opened them and grinned down at her again, before kissing the end of her nose and rolling off of her.

Propping his head up with one arm, Hiccup allowed his fingertips to trace abstract patterns over her skin as he gazed down at her. She cuddled up to his warmth instead. Not quite ready to let him go just yet. It was admittedly silly given what they had just done, but Astrid also couldn't help feeling a little shy. It had just dawned on her that with his knowledge of her body, she was not even close to his first. She was suddenly nervous to know how she measured up against the others.

"Not even close," he said before she could get the words out. She must have looked confused, for he clarified. "You were wondering how you compare to the others I have been with. I can read it on your face. The answer is not even close. It was so much... More with you. More than I have ever felt before. I'm honoured to be your first Astrid and I only hope that it was not too disappointing."

"That's very nice to hear. Even if it's not the truth," Astrid replied with a smile. Finally sitting up to gaze over the pond as she formed her answer. "I'm not sure how glad I am that you were my first." When he sat up and looked at her in mock outrage, she laughed and shoved him lightly. "You know I was kidding. Of course I'm not disappointed. Though it's probably good that I don't plan to be anyone else's wife since you likely have ruined me in a different way. I have too high of expectations now. We both know Vikings never put that much care and effort into anything."

They looked at each other and burst out laughing. "You're probably right about that," Hiccup muttered. Then he leaned forward and placed a soft kiss on her shoulder. "Care to take a quick swim with me mi'lady. You may want to clean off before I take you home and at least we can try to keep each other warm in that freezing water. Unfortunately, I really do have to leave tonight."

Astrid sighed, but conceded. The two of them stealing many more chaste kisses and brief touches as they quickly washed and dressed themselves. As Astrid sat perched on a rock beside the pond afterwards, re-braiding her hair as she watched Hiccup pack up Toothless' saddlebags, she couldn't find a single ounce of regret. This night had been wonderful. She hoped he would think of this whenever he remembered her. She certainly would whenever she thought of him.

Hiccup secured the last strap before walking over to where she was sitting. "Are you ready to go home," he asked her softly.

"I suppose so," Astrid replied with an exaggerated sigh. "Though it is an awfully long walk and I am ever so tired."

With a roguish grin, Hiccup swept her off the rock and into his arms before she could say a word. "Now what sort of man would I be if I allowed a fair maiden to wander alone and defenceless through the woods at night? What if some wolfish brute decided to take advantage of her?"

"Said fair maiden would likely remove his manhood for him," she offered and they burst out laughing again.

"Fair enough" Hiccup conceded, "but we are still giving you a ride home." Reaching Toothless he hoisted her effortlessly into the saddle. He really was strong for his size, she realized with pride. Fingering her pendant again as she suddenly clued in to the fact that without even knowing it, Hiccup had staked his claim on her.

They had exchanged betrothal gifts, if not of the traditional sort. She would hold that in her heart until she saw him again. She was his and he was hers. They had not spoken the words out loud of course, but she found that they didn't really need to. Instead, she simply clung tight to him as they glided silently into the dark village. Touching down right beneath her bedroom window.

Hiccup jumped from the saddle and caught her around the waist before her feet could touch the ground. Pulling her against him as he slowly lowered her the rest of the way down - wrapped tight in his embrace. Before stepping away, she stretched up on her toes and pressed her lips to his one last time. Then he swung himself back into the saddle and pulled a full face helmet out from one of the saddlebags. After fitting it over his head he looked up to meet her eyes. She could see his reflecting the moonlight through the slits in the mask. The pain she felt, mirrored there.

"Goodbye, mi'lady. Someday we will see each other again." Toothless leaned forward to press his snout against her stomach once as she wrapped her arms around his scaly head. Then Hiccup bowed to her and spurred Toothless into the sky. Astrid remained where she was, staring after him. This was the second time she had watched those two fly away without her, but it felt different this time. More permanent, somehow.

Allowing a lone tear to fall, she scaled the wall into her room and got ready to climb into bed. There, lying on her furs, was a small note in Hiccup's elegant hand. He must have gotten Sharpshot to deliver it here while she had been out with him today. The tears began to flow more freely as she read his words.

'I am leaving my heart here with you. Take care of it for me.'

*

High on her hillside overlooking the village, Gothi smiled at the young lovers before returning to her bed. The man on the black dragon would likely prove a mighty ally for the people now, if the gods willed it. Gothi's only real worry was for the world to be kind enough to keep Astrid from regretting her decisions this night. It would not do for her to be discovered and banished right now. Especially when the future of the tribe was still so unclear. It would be a shame if they finally found redemption, only to chase it away once again with tired traditions and foolish pride.

Though her aging eyes may not have been able to recognize that man in the dark, it mattered little. The elder had long ago learned to follow her gut in such instances instead. This time, she could feel it right down to her ancient bones. Something very important had occurred this night. Something that could either be their salvation, or their demise.

_

While writing this story, I quickly realized that sex scenes are more difficult than battle scenes! I'm talking sweet and romantic smut scenes. Dirty porno is actually really easy to write. Love scenes that don't include the words throbbing, pussy, or dick are stressful and impossible. Hopefully this one wasn't too awful.

Hiccup has some slightly darker tendencies and thoughts than we would expect from him. He is my beautiful Dirty Dark Swan, after all. Though, given his life experience and the fact that he is a hot-blooded 20-year-old male, I feel they are reasonable. However, he doesn't act on them. Astrid initiates this encounter all by herself.

I know you all wanted Astrid to go with Hiccup and it seems almost cruel that he has to leave her behind. Unfortunately, life is a cruel mistress, and so am I. Did you really think that I would make life that easy for these lovebirds? I wonder where the future will go from here for these two. What is going to happen now that Gothi has seen them? Do you think that will be significant, or just another small bump in the road? She is a mute after all...