Sacrifices

by A.Friend410

Arrangements had been made and now it was up to him to choose. He could deny the request and still live his life unknowing where it would lead him, or he can accept it and cement his future. The only problem was he wasn't the only one who would be affected by his choice. For southernbeauty13 who asked for this story with the pairing of Hiccup and my OC Eira. Hiccup/OC pairing.

5. Part Five

A/n: This part contains sexual activities and language between the characters of this story. If you continue to read this story you are reading this story fully well aware of this fact. Enjoy.

Part Five:

She covered her ears as another dragon raced passed her, but it was not because of the dragons that made her dampen the noise. No, that was thanks to her father-in-law as he cheered for his son and dragon in their annual Dragon race competition. The Chief became louder in his annoyance when the fierce blonde and her Nadder stole the sheep right before it went into Hiccup's basket. She cringed when he yelled about the legalness of the play, but when she peeked an eye open, she saw her husband flying still and looking at her. She straighten up and smiled at him and in return, he gave her a smile back until the Chief yelled at him to get back into the game. This made the son roll his eyes and do what he was told. Eira knew full well that this was the last thing Hiccup wanted to be doing.

In the very end, the Night Fury and his rider lost the game. He was not upset at all. He was very happy to see his friend get her moment with the crowd. After all, that was not his type of scene. Though his father was not too proud of the loss, he was persuaded to be happy when the rider explained how Hofferson winning was better for the people. He could only sigh in relief when his persuasion worked, and his dad walked away.

"Better for the people, huh?" the girl walked up to him smirking.

He smiled back when he saw it was her, "Well, you know it brings morale to the tribe when the Night Fury doesn't always win."

She laughed and it made his belly twist in a knot.

"You just didn't want to deal with all those people holding you up and praising you."

He blushed and scratched the back of his neck. "Eh, well, you caught me." He then went up to her and grabbed her hand to hold. "I also did promise a pretty young lass a flight right after the race. If she is still up for it?"

She blushed at his compliment but answered, "Of course I still am. I am missing Dust terribly."

He walked with her to help her on Toothless who was wagging in excitement at the mention of the other Night Fury. "And I'm sure she misses you, so let's not keep you two waiting any longer."

They flew to the cove in record time and soon as they were on solid ground the male dragon streamlined his way to the female to greet her.

The female did the same to him, but with more grace, she even shocked him when she rubbed her cheek against him, but then completely ignored him when catching sight of the human girl. She ran up to her and began to nuzzle and coo when greeting her.

Eira held and petted her friend smiling. "Oh, I missed you to girl."

The dragon got more excited but stopped when the girl continued her words.

"But you know you wouldn't miss me as much if you stayed in the village." She smiled at her, yet the dragon gave her a frown and a small growl at the suggestion of hanging around humans in such large packs. "Okay, fine then." Eira said with lightness in her voice, "then how is flying coming along?"

That is when she received a loud angry growl and her stepping away annoyed that she asked. She even went as far as to turn her back towards the lass and slammed her tail down in defiance.

Eira sighed, "Apparently still no progress, huh?"

"Eh," Hiccup said coming up behind her and placing his hands on her shoulders. "She's working at her own pace." He then tried to greet the female dragon with a smile and a wave. His face fell in defeat though when said Night Fury huffed and glared at him.

She then turned her back towards him only settling next to the male reptile in hopes that the couple would leave her alone once she slammed her tail down stirring up the dirt around them.

"That apparently will not," he sighed and sighed again when feeling Eira squeezing one of his hands gently. "I think she hates me." Once he said that a loud audible huff was heard again from Dust. "Scratch that I know she hates me."

"She doesn't hate you," she told him and before he could say anything otherwise, she said, "She's annoyed with you."

"That doesn't seem any better."

"Hiccup," she said in a way that made him know she was being serious. "It is not you, not really. She is frustrated."

"She's not the only one," he complained. "If I could get Toothless' automatic fin working again then it would be easier for her to learn I think."

She gave him a gentle smile as she touched his cheek to make him look at her. "It is a good theory and one I am sure that you will make possible. In the meantime, we'll keep working with what we can."

He did not like that at all, "But it has been years Eira, and she should be up in the air by now. Hatchlings have learned faster."

"Hatchlings were also raised by other dragons. Dust was not. She was raised by,"

"You," he finished, and he smiled. "Something that I greatly admire you for."

"And I can't fly."

"Not yet," he smirked but flinched when she smacked his arm. "Ow," he laughed rubbing the spot.

"I am not doing that crazy thing that you do. Jumping off dragons in the skies."

"Hey, the dragon-fly three isn't crazy, it's ingenious and I was more in line of thinking of you on the back of Dust flying next to me and Toothless. Speaking of which," he turned to the dragons and called out, "Hey Bud get your girlfriend ready time to head out for lessons."

His dragon looked slightly annoyed by the comment and so did the female Night Fury. However, both did follow the rider's directions and prepared themselves for the long tedious lesson ahead of them.

Hours later all three returned and Hiccup felt bad because each time they practiced it would wear the female dragon out. Though Hiccup didn't think she was achieving the potential that she could and he could only guess the one reason why it could be.

"Any progress?" Eira asked as she went to care for the Night Fury, who looked as equally as tired as she was pissed.

He shook his head no, "Something is holding her back and I think I know what it could be." He then called out to his dragon who perked up at the mention of his name. "Stay with Dust while we go back to the village. I'm going to work on something that may help." With that Hiccup and Eira went back to the village, the young wife questioning what could possibly be going through his mind and what trick he had up his sleeve to help her dragon. He didn't give any hints as to what it was though. All he would tell her was that it was something he had done in the past and he couldn't believe it didn't think of it any sooner.

Weeks later Hiccup was still working on the project he thought would help the flightless reptile. Unfortunately, something wasn't going to plan unlike the first time he tried out this idea, and the pieces he was trying to put in place snapped in ways they were not supposed to. "Gods damn it!" he cursed throwing the pieces down on the table.

"You may want to take a break."

"I don't need a," he paused in his shouting when seeing that it was his friend Astrid. He took a breath and said it again much quieter, "I don't need a break. I just need these gears to fit without breaking and they just won't." He tried to show her but again the pieces broke and even jumped out of his hands. "ARG! See!"

"I see that you need a break," she said grabbing him by the shoulders and making him walk away from his workbench.

He sighed in frustration and apologized for his behavior.

"Just go home, fly on Toothless or just relax," she told him.

He shook his head not wanting to do any of those things, so he asked, "Is there something you needed?"

She wasn't going to let him do anything for her when he was in such a state. "Not from you, no offense. I'll have Gobber fix one of the buckles on my saddle when he gets back. You really should go home."

"Why do you sound like my dad when he was scolding me as a child?"

"Because you are acting like one maybe?" she said jokingly as she kept leading him out of the shop. "Now go home Hiccup, figure this out tomorrow."

Annoying as it was to hear his friend, she was right. Taking a step back may help with how angry he was becoming. It was just frustrating that the metal was not holding up as it did five years ago. He kept thinking about it all the way to his house as he made his way through the village square. He was even muttering to himself.

"Hiccup?"

He jumped at the sand of his name then looked at who called him, "Eira? What are you doing?"

"I could be asking you that. I've watched you walk in a circle at least three times so far."

He turned bright red when he realized what he was doing. If possible he turned more so when he saw that she wasn't the only one who was watching his display. He scratched the back of his neck and chuckled nervously, "I guess I was in my own head… again."

She smiled at him and knowing him as well as she did she changed the subject. "Well, do you want to come with me? I'm picking up things for dinner tonight. It's one of your favorites."

He copied her grin and nodded. It would help clear and calm the thoughts in his head.

When all their shopping was done they headed back to their home and began to prep the meal. Hiccup was in charge of dicing the onions they picked and he forgot how much it burned his eyes when doing so. "Gods, I forgot how much I hated this," he wiped away the tears with the back of his hand. "I can't stop crying."

She smirked. She wouldn't tell him, but she hated the job too and it's the reason why she gave it to him. "Well, maybe you shouldn't get so attached to them."

He paused and looked at her wiping another tear. He began to laugh at the corny joke when he saw her try to hide her grin. He shook his head and in his carelessness, he wasn't paying attention to where his knife went. "Son of a bitch!" he screamed and squeezed his thumb tight.

She rushed over to him and asked to see the cut. Inspecting it she told him, "Doesn't look too bad. Might only need a tight bandage to stop the bleeding." She went to get the item as he kept the pressure on the digit.

A few minutes later he was as good as new. He even teased her, "Are you sure you don't want to be a healer? Gothi is looking."

"Nah," she scrunched her nose yet had a smile he loved on her face as she said it. "If I did I wouldn't be married to you and where's the fun in that?"

He shrugged continuing the teasing, "I don't know. I think you missed your calling Mrs. Haddock. Could always get used to you bandaging and fixing me up when I get a cut or scrape. I'm very accident-prone."

She agreed whole heartily with his statement but also added, "But I already do that as your wife so why would I need to be a healer?"

"True, yet I could always use you wrapping something around me," he flirted pulling her a bit closer hoping she got the hint.

She received it alright and said as she ran her hands up his chest to his shoulders to rest, "Or to unwrap certain things."

"Or that," he smirked and bent down to capture her lips with his.

She returned the kiss smiling through it even when they parted. "Hiccup," she sighed his name happily.

He didn't know why but he kissed her again. This time hungrier than before. His hands gripped the back of her thighs and he lifted her.

She squeaked a little when she was picked off her feet but her lips never did leave his. Her hands even tighten on his shoulder until she was set back down on their counter. As she was kissing him she worked on one of the many buckles he had on his armor. She even moaned at the feeling of his hands squeezing her thighs.

Both broke the kiss and smiled at each other as they tried their best to catch their breath.

Hiccup was about to go in for another kiss, but sighed in annoyance when a loud knock was heard at their door. He placed a finger to his lips and whispered to her, "Maybe they'll go away if we're really quiet."

She giggled at his request biting her bottom lip hoping to stifle the sound. She only chuckled out loud when the knocking continued and the person was calling out the rider's name. "No, such luck Mr. Haddock," she patted his shoulder and hopped off the table as he went to grab the door fixing any buckles she undid in their tryst.

"I'm coming! I'm coming!" he called out reaching for the door, and opening it surprised to see his dad standing there with a scowl on his face. That instantly dropped the happiness in his demeanor especially when the larger Viking said,

"Come with me now."

Hiccup didn't say a word, he could only nod. He was about to follow the man but didn't get too far as Eira came to her husband's side and asked the Chief, "Is there an issue sir?" she had a hand on Hiccup's shoulder trying to ease his frightened nerves.

Stoick exhaled being a smidge softer with his tone when it came to the lass. "I need to speak with my son for a moment."

"You two can speak here if you wish. It's just as private as anything and I can continue prepping the vegetables." She tossed Hiccup a reassuring smile and went back to the kitchen area to finish the food.

Hiccup stood to the side offering his dad to come in, which he did.

Stoick took a seat at the table and waited for his son to join him there. When he did he told the boy, "There is something I need to discuss with you."

"Clearly," he said sarcastically and when Stoick raised a judgmental look towards him, Hiccup did one back and defended himself, "You come here, bang on my door, and demand that I leave with you. What do you expect me to say?"

"Hiccup," he heard Eira call over her shoulder in a warning tone.

He pressed his lips together and forwarded his eyebrows. He felt a bit ashamed but did say, "Sorry."

"So am I," Stoick said realizing how he was acting. "It's just been a long day for me and I realized that I am not as young as I used to be. My young Viking days are slowly coming to an end."

This caused the young couple to be concerned. Even Eira stopped what she was doing and came over to the gentlemen. She placed her hands on Hiccup's shoulder as he asked, "What are you saying, dad? Are you feeling okay?"

Seeing the faces they made Stoick figure out what they were thinking and quickly had to correct them. "Oi, you two I'm not dying! Far from it! I have a heart of an ox." To make his point he pounded on his chest.

"Oh thank Thor," Hiccup sighed in relief along with Eira. It still left the young Haddock pondering. "Then what are you saying?"

"What I am saying is that I need you to start thinking about what is next for your future."

Both Vikings looked at each other and had bright red faces when they thought they knew what the elder meant. However, neither was ready for that step in their lives and it was made clear to the Chief when they both went, "Uh…"

"Oh Odin, not that! Though grandchildren would be nice eventually. It was not what I was suggesting." Stoick took a deep breath before he tried his best to make it clear what he was asking of his son. "Have you thought about what path you would take in the village?"

"Path?"

Stoick nodded and gave him some examples, "Astrid is joining the Berk Guard. Fishlegs is starting up an academy to teach the younger Vikings about our history and dragons. Even Snotlout seems to be helping Gobber with the armory."

Hiccup raised an eyebrow at that. Gobber was not the sort of man that let anyone in his blacksmith hut working with his tools.

"To test them not to make them like you or Gobber. Gods know there would be more disasters if I allowed that to happen." He chuckled at his joke which got his son to let out a chuckle once or twice. Stoick then continued, "So have you given it any thought?"

Hiccup sat back in his chair and finally gave it some thought, but the truth was that he hadn't. He was so busy with helping Dust with her flight troubles, figuring out the issues with the dragons on Berk and helping them co-exist, working the blacksmith shop with Gobber and any projects he had, and then his plans and exploration out there in the archipelago like finding new dragons and filling in the book of dragons. He was also trying to be there for Eira, but that wasn't so hard. It was the easiest thing he does on his list now that he thought about it. And all this is what he told his father and admitted that he wasn't thinking of that sort of thing.

"I see," Stoick said. "Then maybe my offer can help."

"And what would that be?" Hiccup raised an eyebrow.

"Start being more serious and we can start your training as Berk's new Chief," he said in a way that made it feel like he was doing a huge favor for his son, yet it was clear that the young male did not see it this way.

Hiccup was shocked. Eira was even shocked by the announcement and Hiccup didn't know what to say to his prideful father.

Stoick smiled at his shocked features and took it as a good sign that this was what was best for his son. He stood up and patted his hands together and told him, "Then it is settled. You will meet me at my hut tomorrow morning and you can help me out with some of the duties you will be fulfilling as a Chief."

Hiccup was still in shock that Eira took over in his place and led her father-in-law out of the home and said their goodbyes, "Thank you, Stoick. I'm sure Hiccup will try his best to make it there."

"Be sure that he does," Stoick said and left the couple and their home.

Eira closed the door once he left and calmly said, "Well, that was unexpected." She turned to Hiccup, who was still looking baffled. She walked over to him and asked, "Are you okay?"

He only told her, "I don't want to do it."

"Hiccup…"

"No, seriously. I don't want to do it Eira. I don't want to be the next Chief."

She gave him a soft smile and asked, "Then why didn't you say anything? I am sure your father would have understood." He gave her a look that made her change her question real quick. "Okay, then what would you like to do instead of being Chief?"

"I don't know," he answered a bit scared. Then he asked her, "Do you want me to be Chief?"

She shook her head and held his hands as she sat next to him. "When we first met do you remember what we discussed as you showed me around?"

He shrugged, "Kind of."

"I told you that when I become your wife my duty is to support you no matter what you choose. That hasn't changed Hiccup and never will."

He sighed then smiled at her, "Why are you so supportive of me?" He then joked, "I must drive you crazy."

"Only a bit," she smiled, "but what else would I be?"

"A total bitch?" he joked back and laughed when she slapped his arm at the insult. He also knew he wasn't in trouble when he saw her laugh with him.

"Now you are definitely helping me with dinner," She pulled him up from his seat and back to their kitchen area.

"Yes, dear," he happily went with her and even perked up when she mentioned that he would also be taking her on a flight after their meal. "Speaking of flight," he said as he helped with the prepping. "I might have figured out what to do with Toothless' tail fin.

"Oh?"

He nodded and explained that he needed to speak with Fishlegs to find the rocks needed to make Gronkle Iron. Hopefully, that material was strong enough to go through the molding process into gears and not break like the iron he had been using. He went on to explain that a trip like that would be an all-day affair and he would need to coordinate with his friend on which day they could go.

"Would you like to speak with him now? Food will take a while to cook, so you will have time."

He agreed and kissed her cheek before leaving their hut.

There was only one place to find his friend at this time and that was the hatchery. Fishlegs would claim that it was because Meatlug loved being with the baby dragons since she was a such great mother but in truth, it was because the Viking was a sucker for the younger reptiles. His father was also right about his love for teaching. Every now and then a small group of kids would surround the dragon rider to listen to his ramblings about the history of them and their dragons. And just as he thought, he found his friend sitting in one of the stables surrounded by the hatchlings.

"Hey Hiccup, what are you doing down here?" the large Viking asked as he played with a couple of hatchlings. He then joked, "Toothless kick you out to spend time with Dust?"

He chuckled and shook his head no. "Actually, I was looking for you. I was wondering if you could help me with something."

"Oh? What do you need?" he asked picking up a baby Nadder off his helmet and setting it down watching as it went to play with some of the other dragons.

Hiccup smiled at the scene, but was more focused on the reasons why he was there "I'm in some need of Gronkle Iron. Is there any way possible if you would be willing to get some of the minerals needed with me?"

Fishlegs smiled at the invitation and had already to go with him, but was curious at what new invention Hiccup had come up with.

The teen shrugged. "Nothing new unfortunately but hopefully an improvement to Toothless's automated tail fin so he can fly solo."

"You still haven't figured it out yet?"

"The gears keep shattering from the force being used on them. I think Gobber received a cheap shipment of iron, but I figured Gronkle Iron would be able to handle the treatment. Not only that but it would be lighter for Toothless since he would need to be flying a bit more to help Dust out."

The other rider looked a bit more concerned at hearing that. "She is still having trouble flying?"

"Sort of. She can definitely hover when she wants to over by the cliffs," he explained. "She just doesn't want to do anything when I am around and Toothless-"

"Can't fly without you," the friend finished. "That is a bit of a dilemma."

"It is and the reason why I want to get this fin up and running as soon as possible."

"Well, then I am free tomorrow."

"Really?" Hiccup asked enthusiastically, "Then I'll see you at the academy first thing in the morning."

As he was walking home excited to tell Eira about the trip tomorrow he realized one important detail he forgot. "Shit my dad," he then rushed over to his father's house and hoped that the man would understand.

"Excuse me?" the Chief sounded annoyed.

"Dad, please…"

"Please what Hiccup? How could you be so forgetful? You need to go back to your friend and reschedule your silly little expedition," Stoick ordered his son.

That statement angered the rider. Maybe it was because he had been working so hard on the tail fin or that he didn't want to be told what to do anymore. Either way, he snapped at his father.

"It's not a silly expedition!"

Stoick was shocked at the outburst that he couldn't say anything as his son continued.

"I've been working on this project for weeks, months even! It's important not only just to me, but for Eira. For Dust. For Toothless! And not only that but you want me to put aside promises I made to others, to Gobber, to my wife, and for what?! To follow you around all day to hear you gripe about how people can't follow orders, or how you have to bless another wedding or child into the tribe, or how a sheep's wool grew two inches instead of its usual three. No thank you, so why don't you reschedule dad because I will not let down the people who are relying on me when I made a promise!" he was huffing after his rant yet he was standing firm on what he had said.

Stoick was still silent after the outburst to the point where Hiccup was becoming nervous.

"Well, aren't you going to say something?"

The father sighed, "I didn't know that you felt that way."

"I did... do. I do feel that way," Hiccup said trying to be confident.

The large Viking stood there in more silence as he thought and look at what Hiccup said, "Maybe you're right."

"I am?"

"Keeping your word is important and I shouldn't keep you from promises," Stoick said, "So when you get back from your trip come find me, we can discuss more about the opportunity presented to you. And believe it or not, Hiccup Chief-ing is not all about complaining or sheep's wool."

Hiccup's cheek turned red at the comment embarrassed at his outburst in the heat of the moment. He did accept his father's proposal and was grateful that he took it so well. He did make a quick leave before his dad could change his mind. He also couldn't wait to tell his wife the good news.

It was a little over a few months as Hiccup continued to work on those promises made to his fellow Berkians. He was also able to do more than he thought thanks to a few other situations that arise because of the dragons and villagers. Certain structures were built thanks to him and it made living with a bunch of flying reptiles a breeze. Not to mention a certain person was having a few nights without headaches anymore, naming the Chief himself.

Stoick was proud of his boy. For everything that he had done for the tribe, the dragons, and his friends and family. He saw more and more qualities of a chief in him each day that he interacted with or completed his promises. That's why he wanted to tell him some good news again.

He walked into the Great Hall following a source that said his son was in there Catching sight of him he started to make his way over but stopped when he watched him pull his wife into view towards a part in the Hall where it was open.

Eira was smiling and shaking her head as Hiccup was leading her out to the floor, "Hiccup, no."

"Come on it's going to be fun," he encouraged holding her hands and still leading her towards the space, a huge grin on his face as he said it.

"Fun for who?" she giggled.

He just winked and told her to wait right there for a moment. Hiccup went up to a couple of Vikings and asked them if they could do a small favor and what that favor was.

"Of course lad. We'll be happy to help you with that."

"Great!" he exclaimed throwing the guys two thumbs up. "Just give me ten seconds to go back to her."

They nodded preparing for what was to come.

As Hiccup reached her she asked, "Hiccup, I don't think-"

He hushed her by holding her hands again, "It will be fine," he smiled. "Besides I have to show you off sometimes right?"

"But I don't think anyone wants to,"

He cut her off again by holding up an index finger and a bigger smile grew as he heard the soft notes of instruments playing. "You know this one, right?"

She was smiling as she sighed and rolled her eyes, "Yes… I do…"

"Then by all means Mrs. Haddock please entertain me with a beautiful song of yours."

She bit her bottom lip and was about to give in when the same verse was repeated by the musicians waiting for her to sing the note that would continue the song. She took a deep breath and right when she was about to, stopped. She looked around and quietly told him, "Everyone's looking."

"Ignore them. Just sing for me, like if we're back at the house," he said.

Sighing once more she agreed. She closed her eyes and waited until it was her time to sing her first note. Before she let it out she froze as she asked him, "What if I messed up?"

He only encouraged her more, "then remember this. One, no one will know and two, it can't be any worse than if I sang. I can make a Thunderdrum cover its ears."

"Aren't Thunderdrums hard of hearing?"

He just grinned bigger toward her.

This made her sigh in defeat with a smile as she finally caved in, "Fine." She took another deep breath and when it was her cue she began the song.

Hiccup had a gentle smile throughout her singing. Others were also enjoying the melody she brought to them, but her husband had to be the one enjoying it the most. He was enjoying it so much that he decided that when the song had picked up the beat he pulled her in close and began to dance with her.

The lass was surprised at first but didn't stop him. She embraced him back for a small amount of time when the instrument had their time to shine in the middle of the song. She was smiling back at him as she followed his lead as he spun them around and right before she had to sing again Hiccup spun her out slowly letting everyone around them know it was her time to shine.

And she did, at least to him. He continued to smile at her as she softly let the last note of the song fade out. His heart began to swell with admiration and pride while everyone clapped for her performance. He then took her hand in his as he noticed the bright red blush on her face from all the attention she was receiving. He also didn't care who was looking at them as he whispered to her, "I knew you could do it." Before she could respond he kissed her softly.

Again he was surprising her at any chance he got, but she did happen to kiss him back. When the kiss broke they both were smiling and rested their foreheads together. His arms held her close.

Stoick was frozen in his spot. Although happy for his son and his wife, the sense pained him. It was like he was looking back at a memory. A memory he wouldn't be able to relive until he was in Valhalla with his wife once again. He shook the feeling off and went up to the couple. It was clear the two were lost in their own world that Stoick had to clear his throat to get their attention. "May I speak with you for a moment son?"

"Of course," he answered his face now red.

"I'll just… um… yeah," Eira stumbled also embarrassed pointing towards the area they were sitting at before the performance and then shuffled away.

The two Haddock men stood there for some time until the father spoke up, "She certainly has a talent."

"Yeah," he smiled. "She doesn't like to show it often but she can carry a pleasant tune."

"Your mother could too. At least as well as I could."

Hiccup chuckled at that. He never heard his father sing only his bellowing yell, so he could only imagine how well his singing voice was.

Stoick changed the subject, however, "The dragon races are tomorrow."

"Yes, they are. Astrid has been training for them this past week."

"Should I expect you to participate this time or are you going on another exploration?" The chief meant that as an endearing question, but it came out harsher than anticipated. He knew he made the mistake when Hiccup came back with a snippy tone.

"Not sure, are you going to badger me about following you around again?"

Both of them sighed and knew that they each messed up in the conversation, so Stoick tried to smooth it over.

"All I want is to see you before the races begin. If you don't mind?"

That just made the rider feel worse and for his own conscience agreed to see the man at his home before the races.

Once the meeting was set both went their separate ways. Hiccup went back to where his wife was waiting for him. She had a smile on her face when spotting him which was infectious.

"So, how did it go with Stoick?"

"Meeting up with him tomorrow before the races apparently."

She saw the positive in the opportunity and asked him, "Are you going to tell him the plan?"

He sighed and ran his fingers through his hair before resting his elbows on the table. "You mean that I think Astrid should be the next chief, Chiefess, of Berk?"

She nodded.

"Do you think it's too soon?"

She reached for his hands and held them, "You've been planning this for months now. You knew it from the second you told me what you wanted. I think he deserves to know now rather than later." She also pointed out, "Not too many promises left to fulfill either."

He nodded solemnly. "Just to get Dust to fly on her own," he said. "Though I am starting to get the feeling that she doesn't want to do that. No matter what we try."

Eira shrugged, "She does tend to do what she wants. Besides I think if we just get her use to the village she will be alright. I mean a down dragon isn't a dead dragon on Berk anymore, right?" she grinned at the small joke.

He did too, "Not at all." His comment made him think though. "Maybe getting her to our place should be the next step then."

"Maybe extend the stable to be bigger. Fit two Night Furies instead of one."

"Possibly more than just two," he hinted.

"Oh, not this again," she exasperated.

"What?" he smirked, "Toothless is a handsome guy by dragon standards I mean. Dust could open up to him in that way."

Eira just sternly looked at him, "You will not match make these two, Hiccup. They will come together on their own. Besides you remember what happened last time you tried?"

"You mean how I almost received a matching prosthetic hand to go with my foot?"

"Exactly."

"Fair enough," he laughed. "So tomorrow I'll tell my dad and then I'll start on the advancements on the stable."

She smiled because even though he said he would be working on the next project tomorrow she already knew his mind was reeling with ideas on what to do. And it wasn't long until it all spilled out and he started to ramble. She sat there in contentment as she listened. She even chuckled or giggled whenever his hands and arms started to enunciate his words.

When he caught her giggle he stopped. "What's so funny?"

She shook her head, but when he insisted she said, "You, with your arms."

"What about it?" he was confused until he saw her mimic his actions from earlier. "Oi, I don't do that." He took it back instantly when he realized that he just did the action that he said he never did. "At least not all the time."

She laughed and he copied. When catching his breath he just looked at her as she continued the conversation. He wanted to kiss her. He wanted to tell her how he felt about her, but he couldn't. Their friends had just arrived taking the conversation from them to tomorrow. And tomorrow was going to arrive faster than Hiccup would have liked.

Hiccup was hurt, shocked even a bit angry as his father stood there once again months later telling Hiccup that he would be the next Chief. The man wouldn't even let him get a word in edge-wise to hear what he wanted or even planned. That's why he hopped on his dragon and took off. At that moment, he didn't care. Didn't care about dragon races or his father's shouting. He just wanted to fly away in the clouds and not care anymore. It's not like anyone would listen anyways.

Another dragon raced by as Stoick ran down the score for each of the racers. "And Hiccup is nowhere to be found." He sat down in disappointment but agreed with what Gobber has said.

This confused the young maiden who sat next to the man.

"Scared him away with the big announcement, huh?"

"Announcement?"

"Oh yeah, Stoick just told Hiccup that he'll be the next Chief."

"Gobber!" the father yelled.

"What? You can still explain to her how proud you've been of him with all the improvements he has done around the tribe."

"Gobber!" he exasperated.

"So, Hiccup agreed to all this?" she asked.

Stoick looked ashamed when she asked, but he answered the question. "He was stunned but I'm sure he'll be back home in no time to celebrate with you. He just needs some time on his own. You know how he is."

Eira just hummed not sure how to respond to the man. There was one thing for sure though she did know her husband very well and if he was off for a flight it meant he was not as celebrating as the father figure thought.

The brunette was slightly nervous as she approached the Hofferson warrior. They didn't hate each other but any conversation, especially when it came to a certain Dragon rider, was uncomfortable for them. However, now was not the time to be nervous. Eira needed the girl's help and she had to ask. She walked up to her weaving in between her fans as they congratulated her on another win. When she was close to her she called out, "Excuse me, Astrid."

She turned when hearing her name and noticing that it was Eira she excused herself and went to listen to the female Haddock. She knew it was strange in general since both seem to understand their friendship. "Is something wrong?"

"It's Hiccup," she answered, which made the other worried until she continued, "He left to go exploring again."

"What else is new? It's Hiccup."

Eira would agree with that statement except, "After talking with his dad this morning."

"Oh," it all made sense to her now. She sighed and told her, "I'll try to find him, talk to him, and bring him back." She was already about to go search, but stop to ask, "Do you know why he left this time?"

Quickly she shook her head no. She didn't know why she didn't tell the other but she felt like it wasn't her problem to tell. Lucky for her Astrid didn't question it and promise to bring the Viking home within a couple of hours.

Astrid kept her promise though it was a bit longer than usual. She could only smile when seeing her husband land and she rolled her head as Stoick yelled out to him,

"There he is! The pride of Berk!"

She sighed and thought, "Oh, Stoick if you only could see." She watched from the forge soothing a blue Zippleback as they waited for Gobber to repair a missing tooth as Hiccup tried his best to explain to both men what he wanted. From the sound of his voice and his movements, it seemed important. She listened quietly as he and his father continued and again Hiccup's voice alone felt like whatever had happened out there shook her husband up.

"I really need to tell you about this new land that we discovered."

"Another one?" Gobber asked.

Eira just chuckled because it wasn't that big of a surprise to her that the rider was able to come across new land.

"Any new dragons?" Fishlegs piped up too excited about any new species that he could learn about.

Hiccup then explained that they hadn't even had the chance to look, which caused some concern with Eira. They were always able to find new dragons or even ones that they already knew of. As Hiccup continued her concern was forming into worry, but when Astrid joined in it was solidified. She never heard of a dragon that could spit ice and neither had Hiccup.

"That does seem a bit strange," she murmured.

Hiccup heard her and was about to say something, but the Blacksmith turned dragon dentist spoke first.

"You kids are going to get into serious trouble one of these days. Not everyone can appreciate this way of life."

Stoick agreed, "It's best to keep to our own."

Again Eira mumbled to herself, "Odd when you didn't think this way a few years ago with my father or other tribes we met a long away."

The chief heard it and corrected her, "That is because your father and I were friends, allies. I trusted him just as I do with the others my son and the riders had met on their adventures out there."

She felt a bit guilty for speaking out and became silent afterward.

"Besides," Stoick turned his attention back to his son, "You'll have more important uses for your time." He turned on a machine that automatically was able to saw through materials. Another genius invention his son had made. "Once we make the big announcement."

Hiccup was annoyed and serious now as he slammed the level that control the saw to its off position. "They are building a dragon army."

Everyone, including the people waiting outside the shop, heard this and everyone was a mix of emotions when it was said.

Seeing everyone's faces though spooked the rider as he realized others were listening, "At least, the guy they are working for is. Drago Bloody fist or something." He shrugged his shoulders compensating for his lack of confidence and waving his arms.

The Chief's face became serious as he look towards Gobber. His friend having the same expression when the apprentice mentioned the partial name. They didn't even pay attention to the other riders as they made humorous comments about their dragons being taken by this man and his army.

Eira however seemed bothered by her husband's claim. The name sounded familiar but she couldn't remember where or even why. Even when Stoick grabbed his son and corrected the name it annoyed her as she knew the name but still couldn't place how, but Stoick did.

"Wait, you know him?" Hiccup asked confused as the large Viking looked like he was tormented by the sound of the name.

Everyone was following the Chief down the stairwell towards the underground stables as he was shouting orders out towards his fellow Vikings. As soon as he yelled chaos over the tasks ensued. His son followed the closest behind the man wondering what his thought process was for the drastic change in mood.

"No dragon or Viking sets foot off this island unless I give the word."

"Wait, because some guy you knew is stirring up trouble in some far-off land?"

Stoick once again stopped to address his son placing his large hands on the boy's shoulders finally giving some insight into his worry. "Because Drago Bludvist is a madman without conscience or mercy." He turned to continue his path on the lockdown. "And if he is building a dragon army… Gods help us all."

Hiccup walked in front of his dad trying for him to see it his way. Trying to push his message that peace with this madman was still an option.

Stoick wasn't swayed and told Hiccup such by telling him what they needed to do instead.

"It's our duty to keep the peace!" Hiccup cried out.

"Peace is over Hiccup," Stoick explained. "I must prepare you for war."

"War? Dad if Drago is coming for our dragons then we can't just wait around for him to get here. Let's go find him and change his mind," he pleaded.

"Oh son, some minds won't be changed," the father said sympathetically. "Berk is what you need to worry about. A Chief protects his own." He left his son to go oversee the preparations to fortify the island.

Hiccup stood there taking in everything that was discussed. His face not hiding any of his emotions. Especially when Toothless came into his view wondering what was going on.

Both Astrid and Eira walked up to him, both seeming to know what he was planning.

Eira placed a hand on his arm drawing his attention to her. Astrid called his name, but Eira was the one to lightly shake her head and pleaded to him, "Don't do it."

"I have to," he told her and kissed her forehead before rushing off on the Night Fury to escape the lockdown and find his first clue towards locating this madman named Drago.

Eira watched him, but then quickly looked at Astrid who just as quickly gave her a nod and went to follow the younger Haddock on her Deadly Nadder. This made the young wife grateful that her husband had some sort of backup out there.

Not his father however as he watched in annoyance as the two riders rode off defying his orders. He turned and saw Eira standing there looking toward where Hiccup had departed. Walking passed her he said, "Get the other riders."

She blinked in surprise, "I'm sorry, what?"

"Get the other dragon riders we're bringing those two back before they get into more trouble." He continued to walk and when he noticed that she was following he spoke to her directly, "You shouldn't have encouraged him. You don't know how dangerous this man is."

She was about to defend herself but the burly man spoke again.

"That's why Spitelout will be in charge until I return."

Eira couldn't say anything but agreed with a nod as she then went to go grab her friends to go ride with the Chief to retrieve her husband.

It didn't take long to do what the Chief wanted but she was still worried about what was happening. It also seemed that the only one who picked up on her nervousness was another person who spent a lot of time with her husband. Longer than anyone.

"We'll bring him back lass."

She jumped doing her best not to smack the man. She only breathed a sigh of relief when she realized who was speaking to her. "Oh Gobber, it's only you. I thought you might have been Stoick."

Gobber nodded understanding her jumpiness. "He's not the easiest to be around at the moment."

"This man, Drago. He did something horrible to Stoick, didn't he?" she asked slightly afraid of the answer, even though she had a good idea what that answer was.

The blacksmith didn't answer the question. Instead, he repeated what he said to her earlier, "We'll bring Hiccup before you know it. Sundown by the latest. So, why don't you go back home? Check on Dust in the meantime. We shouldn't be long."

She could only nod in response, not confident in her words at the moment. Then once again she was left behind as she watched the group leave to go find the duo who upset the Chief so much.

She sighed, "Sundown he'll be back and he'll be okay." She said this like a mantra to help herself calm down and kept saying it all the way back to her house.

"So much for sundown," she mumbled to herself as she stood on the steps of the house looking out to the skies as the sun had its last rays shine to the world. She had already checked on her dragon earlier only to leave her at the cove since she was nowhere comfortable being so close to the village without the male Night Fury. Something that was being worked on in a steady progression, but with all the chaotic movement and running around the female dragon was on edge and the best remedy for the dragon was to have her way from it all. This left the human girl alone. Alone to watch the dark skies hoping to catch any signs of Toothless' silhouette and the boy who rode him. "Come on, Hiccup. Where are you?" Staring up at the sky a bit longer and no answer was given she knew it was going to be a restless night for her.

It was why she was caught sitting on the stairs leading to the Great Hall in the middle of the night still trying her best to catch a glimpse of her husband.

"Best you be heading back to your hut miss." Catching who he was talking to Spitelout change the tone in his voice. "Miss Eira," he greeted.

Eira stood up brushing off any dirt she may have gotten on her dress. "Spitelout good evening."

"Evening," he said trying not to sound ruder than usual. "You should be inside."

She smiled knowing he was trying to follow his Chief's orders while he was away. "I just couldn't sleep. I thought this would be okay for the moment until I could."

Spitelout did not budge however and although he was sympathetic to the young girl, he also didn't want any of the Haddock's wrath if something were to happen to her on his watch. "Chief's orders, you should be inside."

Eira sighed but nodded in the end. She didn't have the heart to push the subject. "I guess I can wait and watch the skies at my home." Before departing she did take one more glance at the night sky still hoping she would see the man. A couple of steps in she heard the other Viking say,

"He's been gone longer than this before you know."

"I know," she said annoyed since she was aware of his absences and behavior because of that marital status.

"So he'll be okay."

"And how do you know!" She snapped. She quickly was surprised by her actions and was quick to apologize.

He was sterner in his voice, not appreciating her quick tongue, but he did understand her concern. It was why he offered to walk back to her hut with her. Though to her it didn't sound like an offer, more of a demand.

When reaching the long walk back to her house he made it clear that she was to stay at the home. Before he did leave and she shut her door in his face, he repeated what he did at the steps by the Great Hall. "They will be back, Eira. There's no need to worry so much. Especially with a boy like Hiccup."

Another sigh escaped her as she hung onto the door. "But I do. I always worry about him."

The older Viking watched her and knew exactly how she was feeling. "You know the only reason why he defied Stoick was because of you."

"I seriously doubt that. You said it yourself that Hiccup will do whatever he wants."

"And if he wants to protect you?"

"He wants to protect the dragons and stop a war," she corrected him. "He just wants to keep the peace. He always has."

Spitelout shrugged, "Keep the peace and protect you. Seems like it goes hand and hand. Don't you?"

The conversation was hitting a nerve with her as she once again told him, "In that case, it sounds like it goes hand in hand for all of us. Now if you don't mind I would like to continue to worry in peace." She then closed her door a bit harder than usual, but it sent her message loud and clear to the man.

The Jorgenson shook his head and chuckled a bit before heading into the Village. He had to make sure everyone was following the lockdown.

Eira leaned on the back of her door before sliding down and tucking her knees close to her chest. She hated this. She hated this feeling of hopelessness that she felt. She hated everyone telling her not to worry or that Hiccup would come back. "Of course, he's going to come back," she thought. "He's Hiccup." She paused in her thinking. "Then why does it feel like something bad is about to happen." She groaned and stood back up. She needed to light the fire again.

She bent down next to the pit and had a small smile on her lips as a cool draft wafted in. "He still hasn't fixed that draft," she mumbled to herself. It was a simple happy memory though. How Hiccup would place one of their furs over her shoulders and then a small kiss on her forehead as he promised once again to fix wherever the draft was coming from. She didn't get that this time, however. Instead, she grabbed the fur herself and started a pot for something warm to drink. She wasn't going to get any sleep tonight, so she might as well make herself comfortable.

Night still clung to the skies as the sun's rays tried to fight to be seen. Most everyone was asleep in the village. The only ones still up were on patrol or up because they were taking care of their dragons. One dragon, in particular, was still sleeping, yet she was not in the village. She was sleeping peacefully in the cove. She was so sound asleep that the only thing that awoke her was when her ears twitched and a sweet sound reached her. She slowly opened her eyes and as soon as she did everything went hazy and black.

Eira jumped awake from the table as a loud rumble shook the ground. Her heart felt like it was beating out of her chest with the sudden noise, but she calmed herself down and went to investigate. The investigation didn't last long as she realized the fire was out again because of the draft. She groaned as her attention was now drawn to finding the source of where the cool breeze was coming from. Her plan. To cover the damn thing up so she could stay warm. She pulled the fur tighter around her as she began her search. It didn't take long to find and she was about to jump for joy at her success when another rumble was felt and this time it was louder than before. She was confused as she spoke to herself, "What the Hel?"

That was the last thing she said before the roar of whatever was outside reached her destroying, trapping, and pushing everything out of its path. This included her home, everything inside, and her.

She shook her head and blinked a few times as she tried to regain what had just happened. Her arms and legs were sore all the way to her nails. Speaking of her nails they looked like she had gone down to the point where they were almost dull and judging by the scratches along the stone surrounding her she did it herself. Not only that, but her headed also in dull pain. She couldn't remember anything except that something was telling her to follow. She shook her head at the feeling and decided she needed to see her human companion.

To do so she carefully climbed out of the cove's high walls and made her way toward the path that led to the human's hut. She felt like she was dragging her whole body as she made her way. When coming into the clearing she paused and then panicked. She pushed herself to run up to what was supposed to be a house but was mixed with spikes and chunks of blue ice. She scratched and cried at the only part of the structure that was still the wall of the house. Yet there was no response from the resident inside. The dragon cried out again panicking in a circle until she stopped and perked her head up when a loud blast was heard towards the middle of the village. She didn't hesitate to run towards it as she knew it belonged to the only other dragon and human she could trust.

Hiccup stood there a bit nervous as the crowd was still chanting and cheering his acceptance as their new chief. He nodded and smiled, and gently said his thanks as he stood next to his dragon who was happily accepting his place as the new alpha. The Viking was scanning the crowd though looking for someone in particular. He became slightly nervous as each second passed and he couldn't find her.

Astrid seemed to notice his behavior and had to ask, "Hiccup, what's wrong?"

He tried to brush her off, but his troubles were son known. "Have you seen Eira? I thought she would be here."

The rider offered an explanation that made sense. "Maybe she's with Dust at the cove. After all, I didn't even see her in any part of all this."

"True, but-" Hiccup was stopped short when the crowd was separating to make way for a large black-winged reptile. "Well, speak of the devil," he grinned and that grin turned wider when his mother gasped.

"Another Night Fury!?"

"Spoil my britches," Eret son of Eret said in amazement.

"Yep," Hiccup beamed. "That's Dust. Eira's dragon that we talked about." His happiness changed however when the dragon came up to him in a panic prancing and whining toward him. He knew something was wrong. He walked up to her and knew something was seriously wrong for two reasons. One, she came up to him and allowed him to touch her, and two, when he pulled his hand away after touching her head he noticed blood from a gash she had. "What's wrong girl?"

She roared and tried to get him to leave by pushing him towards the hut. When he didn't go she tried to get him to follow her by crying out again and hopping and pacing back and forth.

They all seemed to understand and began to follow the female Night Fury up the path.

A path that Hiccup knew all too well and when they came to the small clearing that he had picked years ago for a house. Their house. His heart felt like it stopped. All that stood there now was Drago's Bewilder Beast ice and fractures and splinters of wood from the building. When he put Dust's behavior and what was in front of them, he knew. At first, her name came as a whisper out of his lips, but then he screamed and sprinted towards it.

He skidded to a halt and looked where his front door should have been in fear. When Toothless reached his side he panicked and gave his dragon the order to shoot a plasma blast.

The dragon was about to do it too but stopped when one of the riders screamed at them to stop.

"Hiccup wait! You don't even know that she's in there," Fishlegs said. "Besides if she is then you could possibly hit her in the process."

"Then what am I supposed to do!" He yelled. He took a couple of steps back to look at the broken structure and the weight of the reality that was settling in. First his father and now her. His bottom lip started to quiver as he took in each breath. He was about to collapse right there but Dust stopped him when she cried out again. He looked towards her and followed her to the side where miraculously a wall of his home was still in tack. The boy watched as the dragon scratched at the wood and then went lower digging at the dirt.

She made a whining noise as she continue her digging and only stopped when he came over to see what she was doing. She cried and nudged him to look at where she was digging.

When he saw what she did he fell to his knees. He began to dig just like she did and called out his wife's name. The reason for this that no one else could see was at the very base of the wall, not even half an inch wide was a crack and the smallest of fingers sticking somewhat out. He stopped with his digging and placed his hands on the wood. He called out to her again, "Eira! Gods Eira if you can hear me please say something! Anything!" When nothing was called back, he desperately said her name, "Eira…" He was about to break down fearing that all that was on the other side of the wall was a corpse until he heard it. Then he heard it again and was in disbelief, "Eira."

Weakly his name was said behind the wall, "Hiccup, I found the draft."

He laughed more in disbelief than anything as he brushed his eyes to keep the tears hidden. Then he called out to his people, "She's alive! She's over here!" he then bent down close to the crack and told her, "Eira I'm right here. You're going to be okay. We're going to get you out of here."

Her head was pounding and every time she tried to move a sharp pain would go through her. Not only that but she felt extremely weak and cold. In a soft voice, she told him, "I'm really tired Hiccup. I think I'm just going to close my eyes for a bit."

Green eyes widen in fear as panic set in his voice as he told her, "No, Eira! You can't." He pounded his fist on the wood. "You need to stay with me. Just keep talking." He waited for a response but after a few seconds of silence, he was worried. "Eira!" He hit the wall as hard as he could which thankfully jolted her back into consciousness.

"I'm… I'm really cold."

"I know," he said, "But we'll get you out of there soon enough. Just keep talking to me, okay?"

She thought she agreed with him but instead said, "I can't move. I'm stuck."

He sighed and turned to his friend, "How long do you think she has Fishlegs?"

The large Viking was taken aback by the surprise questions that he stumbled, "I-I'm not sure. We have no clue how long she's been like this. I mean I'm surprised she's even alive now. You know how fast hypothermia can set in and not to mention any other injuries she might have sustained from the blast."

"So tell me how to get her out of there," he said.

Poor Fishlegs didn't know how or what to say to his new Chief. He didn't have a plan. Not for something like this. Besides Hiccup was usually the one who created plans in situations like this.

"Hiccup," Astrid came to her friend's rescue, "What would you do?"

He closed his eyes tightly. Every second he wasted was a second that his wife didn't have. He didn't know though because what Fishlegs said was correct. They didn't know what was behind that wall or how she had even survived the blast itself. He was panicking and his mind was swimming with what to do. His wife's life was literally in his hands and he didn't know what to do. Not until his mom said his name.

"Hiccup…" Valka placed a hand on his shoulder and gently tilted his head so he was looking at her.

She had calmed him enough for him to take a deep breath and sigh. The answer came to him and he answered, "We need to melt the ice. I need Gronkles."

A few moments later Fishlegs along with Meatlug and a couple of other Gronkles were flying right above the blue ice.

Hiccup leaned down once again to the small crack and told the trapped girl, "Now it's going to be loud and most likely hot as the ice turns to steam, but this is the only thing I can think of. Are you ready?"

"Hiccup…" she said weakly making him not want to wait anymore.

He took a step back making others do the same. "Now when the lava melts the ice this wall is going to drop along with everything else behind it. Once it goes we get Eira out of there, understood?"

Everyone agreed already prepared to do what the new Chief wanted.

"Okay Fishlegs," he yelled. "Whenever you're ready."

Fishlegs was nervous but encouraged his lovely Gronkle to start the flow of their lava blast.

The hissing sound of steam was loud and as it grew the hotter the area was becoming. All the time as the cloud grew Hiccup was praying to all the gods that Eira was alright. He continued to watch and it seemed agonizingly slow, but he understood why. Fishlegs didn't want to panic the Gronkles making them miss their mark. The new Chief closed his eyes as the wind shifted and made whatever steam cloud was made blow into the crowd's face. The steam kept up but when a loud ground-shaking thud was heard did everything stop. A couple of seconds later the steam was cleared enough away that Hiccup noticed that his plan had worked.

He ran to the spot where the wall once stood and saw the still figure of his wife. Hiccup fell to his knees in front of her and cleared the chunks of ice that hid near her, along with their dining table that took most of the blast and helped pinned her against the wall. Once everything was out of his way he pulled Eira into his lap calling out to her. He was combing her hair back noticing how soaked it was along with everything else of hers. He cradled her in his arms and touched her cold wet cheek saying her name over and over hoping to get a response.

When nothing happened he went to move her but stopped when noticing that the hand supporting her head was sticky and watered down red. He began to panic and call out to any of the healers to help.

Rushing towards their new Chief one of the healers inspected the unconscious girl. Then told the young adult, "We need to get her inside and in some dry clothes." They then ripped some cloth into strips and wrapped it around her head to stop the bleeding that was occurring. "Then we can assess the other injures she may have received."

Hiccup was worried now. The only place he could think of that wasn't drowned in ice was the Great Hall. He didn't want to bring her there, too many eyes would be on her and she deserved that privacy at the very least, "Where would you suggest then? Everything is either in ice or destroyed."

"Well, not everything," Snotlout interjected turning Hiccup's attention solely to him.

"Show me."

Hiccup sat next to his wife, who lay in his old bed. They were in his late father's house, the only place that didn't seem to be impacted by Drago. They were set up next to the fire pit in hope that the warmth of the flames and the multiple fur blankets on top of her were enough to help get her body temperature back. She was dressed in a simple dry tunic thanks to Astrid and Ruffnut as Gothi and one of the other healers inspected her injuries. Luckily, it only seemed to be a small cut on the back of her head which would heal up on its own with the help of a bandage wrapped around the stitches they placed. What concerned them all was her body heat. She was still cold to the touch and completely pale. All any of them could do not was wait and pray the young woman woke up soon.

"Thank you," Hiccup said softly almost afraid if he spoke too loudly then he might jinx whatever they did to help her.

The women all nodded and quietly left the home leaving the two alone.

The new Chief was left sitting beside his passed-out wife. His thoughts circled in his head. Ones that he thought he didn't exist anymore since he found his place in the tribe, friends, and even possibly a future. But no, the crazed man made him realize all those depressive thoughts were always there. His father was gone and now he might even lose his wife. He bowed his head and slowly let each tear fall as words of failure kept popping into his head. Then the tears fell harder and faster as he sobbed. He cradled his head as he began to sob harder as each minute passed.

"Hiccup," a soft knock was heard on the door. When there was no response the person slowly pushed it open and called out again. "Hiccup, are you still in here?"

A low hum was heard signaling that he was there. He finally answered her, his voice indicating the state of his awareness. "I'm over here, Astrid." He was still sitting next to an unconscious Eira holding onto her limp hand. His eyes stared intently at her hoping even praying that she would wake up.

The warrior carefully walked in closing the door behind her. She sighed when the door finally clicked closed. "Hiccup." When she didn't hear a response she called out again, "Hiccup, are you ready to go?" Again, she waited for an answer. When receiving none she told him, "People are asking for you. Asking for their Chief," she said a bit chipper hoping it would bring some light to this gloomy situation and his demeanor.

He sighed taking another moment to look at the sleeping Viking. He kissed her cold hand and sluggishly stood up after placing her hand back at her side. "Ready as I can be," he said in a drone tone, still taking the moment to look at Eira hoping she would wake.

Astrid took notice and asked, "Are you sure you are up for this? I could take over for the day, while you stay with her."

He didn't answer instead he asked a question of his own, "Are my mom and Eret coming with Dust?"

She nodded and said that they were.

He in turn stated, "We'll wait until they get here. If that's okay." He then sat down going back into his position of holding her hand once more.

She couldn't deny him when he took his seat once again. So she made herself comfortable to lean against the wall to wait. Amongst the waiting, she had to ask, "Any change in her?"

He sighed and shortly answered, "No. She's still unconscious clearly."

"Has Gothi said anything about what to do?"

"To wait." He was getting agitated with her questioning. He just wanted to sit in silence at the moment and not think about how he screwed up and put her in this position.

"That's it? Just to wait? There has to be more than just that."

"No Astrid there isn't," he said in a sharp tone making it clear she needed to back off. He then went back to circle in his thoughts. He even spoke up and said, "All I can do is wait, just like I should have done back in the stupid stables."

She looked at the man with concern. She didn't know what he meant by that, but she didn't have to ask as he continued.

"If I would have waited then my father would still be alive. Eira wouldn't be in this state."

"Hiccup none of this is your fault."

"Yes it is Astrid!" he glared at her, but then his face soften knowing that he shouldn't be taking his anger at her. The wave of guilt washed over him again. "I'm sorry."

Astrid walked over to him and placed a hand on his shoulder. She wanted to say something but he opened up first.

"I can't lose someone else that I love Astrid. I can't lose her."

She was shocked by her friend's confession, but still wanted to support and comfort him. She gently squeezed his shoulder and said, "You won't Hiccup. You know I'm not a huge fan of how you two come together. How you were arranged to marry one another, but Eira is more resilient than we give her credit for."

A small smile graced his features while looking at the sleeping woman.

"Just give her some time like Gothi said. She'll make it through this." She then gave him some encouragement. "And stop blaming yourself. No one else does."

He was about to speak up but she cut him off knowing very well what he was about to say.

"She won't blame you either." When she heard him sigh again she asked him one more time. "Are you sure you don't want me covering for you?"

He shook his head, "No, it wouldn't look too well if the first day as chief I sit in a house all day."

"They would understand."

Hiccup couldn't say any more for another knock was heard at the door. He stood up to grab it and when he opened up he was greeted by the large black dragon carefully making her way inside the building. Behind the dragon were the people who he asked to come over. He made room for them to enter but when he went to pet and greet Dust, he was stopped.

"I wouldn't do that. She is already on edge by all the activity." A tall thin woman warned her son as she walked through the threshold.

He could only nod as he watched the dragon make her way to lay beside her friend. Her large head rested on her legs looking at her with concern and sadness. It only made the young Chief feel the wave of guilt wash over him as he sighed. He then was taken back when he felt a hand on his shoulder.

"You doing okay there Chief?" Eret asked the man.

He shook it away and answered, "Yeah, fine." He took a look at his wife again before telling them, "You will let me know if anything changes?"

Astrid answered for them already knowing where his head was, "Of course, they will Hiccup." She then grabbed his arm and said, "Now let's get to the village and see how we can help."

Once again, he gave a short nod but was hesitant to step outside the home.

His mother was the one to see this and gave her son the push he needed, "We got her son. Now go Toothless is waiting right down those steps for you."

Another sigh and a deep breath made him go outside with one of his best friends only to be greeted by another. He wrapped his hands around the Night Fury's neck smiling at his enthusiasm. He then softly spoke, "I missed you too, Bud." He laughed as the dragon spread his spit across the rider's face. He tried his best to wipe it off with his forearm as he told the lizard, "Ah, Toothless you know that doesn't wash out easily."

The reptile didn't care as he happily walked around his rider joyfully excited to see him again. Happy that they were back together and back to doing what they did best.

Astrid smiled at the two knowing that both of them needed to see one another again. After everything that happen the past few days, they were not the only ones who needed to see the duo back together. "You two ready to see what we've done so far to clean up?"

Hiccup sighed, not wanting to step into the role placed upon him. Nonetheless, he did as he stepped up into Toothless' saddle and told the blonde Viking, "Led the way."

They landed just outside the town square and Hiccup steadied his nerves as a weight seemed to lift off his shoulders as he looked around towards all the other villagers. He gave a small nod or wave towards them as each one paused to greet their new Chief, who walked around them. He even smiled at a couple of the youngsters who were doing their part in removing small pieces of Bewilder Beast ice. He even hopped off Toothless to go help some of them complete their task. This did not go unnoticed by the people either and it seemed that it gave more favor to the young Viking.

After helping the smaller ones, much to their enjoyment the Chief continued his path helping others with repairs. Hours later he stopped taking a small break from the activities. During his break, his green eyes scanned the area and landed on the Great Hall's stone wall where some of their best carvers already began to sculpt the large figure of their past great Chief.

Looking up at it he felt small, but the stone of the man looked proud and untouchable. The real Viking was however and it drew out the pain the young son was feeling in his chest. It made his eyes water staring at his late father. He didn't let his tears fall, not with his dragon being a wonderful distraction. He gave a small grin and patted Toothless' thick neck reassuring him that he was fine. That was until a loud screech was heard. It made the duo race down to the home where the noise came from.

He threw open the front door and rushed in. he came in seeing Eret nursing his head and his mother trying to calm the woman who was sitting up on the bed clutching onto the large female Night Fury.

The said woman was frightened at the people she was left with, not recognizing them and asking them all the usual questions that would be asked when coming back into the conscious world. The threats were also there accordingly that was until she heard her name.

"Eira," he called out and didn't wait for any more than he had to and ran to embrace her tightly. Once in his arms, he kept repeating softly in her ear, "You're alright." When he heard her say his name he didn't realize that he was silently letting some tears fall.

She held him back just as tightly but when she pulled away to ask him the questions circling her mind. "Hiccup, who are these people? Where- where are we? What is going on? And-"she cringed pressing her palm against her temple, "And why is my head pounding?"

He took a breath trying to find the words to answer her but was stopped when their friends busted through the door all gasping in happiness to see her awake.

Astrid was the only one to shout that she would gather Gothi as the others gathered around the now-awake Eira. All bombarding her with questions about how she was and giving her small but confusing insights on what when on in her absence.

All of it was very overwhelming to the lass, which did not go unnoticed by the elder Haddock. "Riders," she started but they continued. "Vikings," she called out yet again. "Children!" she yelled and it gave her the time to quiet them down and look at her like they were being scolded by their mothers. She cleared her throat and said, "Let's give these two some time to themselves, we can come back in after Gothi gives her a check over." They all dishearteningly agreed and she even asked the two Night Furies to follow along which took a bit of convincing but was done nonetheless.

As they were walking out of the hut Tuffnut asked Eret, who was still nursing his head. "What happen to you?"

"The girl can throw a mug, okay?"

Overhearing that Hiccup chuckled and lightly shook his head before looking adoring at his wife who was a bit bashful at the confession. He sat beside her not believing that she was awake. It was why he gently held her cheek to have her look at him. He held her hand with his free one and said, "I'm so relieved that you're alright."

"Hiccup," she said in some pain, "my head is killing me."

He sighed tucking some of her dark hair behind her ear and checked on the bandage wrapped around her protecting the stitched she received. "Most likely from the cut you got. Gothi can check it out and make sure there's no infection and clean."

She touched where he did and asked still confused. "Cut? Hiccup what happened? And why do I feel like my blood is on fire, yet I'm cold."

That worried him, but he tried not to let it show as he told her, "Gothi will be able to help with that once she-"

She cut him off scared, "Hiccup, I don't want a healer. I want to know what is going on. The last thing I remember is going to fix the draft in our house and then waking up to two strangers over me. Please," she squeezed his hand tightly.

He made a face when she said that, "Yeah, Astrid did tell me that I should have let someone else watch over you rather than my mom and Eret doing so."

That confused her even more, "Y-your mother? That was-" she couldn't process what he had said, and then it sunk in what she almost did to the poor woman. "Oh, Gods…"

He tried to calm her, "Hey it's okay, you didn't know. There's no way you could have, not with you trying to be a Popsicle." He tried to joke but she was not in the mood. He sighed and knew that he had to be serious, he had to tell her what had transpired the past days he was gone. He had to open up a wound that he was still trying to close. "Eira, I-" he paused trying his best to hold himself together. Another deep breath and he tried again, "I… I failed. I failed." He looked into her dark blue eyes and was finally able to open up to her and he told her everything since the moment he left her standing in the stables. When he was done retelling everything tears were falling and he wanted to hold her close but held her hands tightly as he choked out, "I thought I lost you too."

She was also in tears. She didn't know what to say to him. He had been through so much and then to find out the man she felt like another father was gone also. She knew what he was going through, but there was nothing she could say except she did hold him close as they both cried at the loss.

When some time had passed Eira called out her husband's name.

He pulled away and wiped away any tears on his sleeve before addressing her.

"Does this mean that you accepted to being the Chief?"

He nodded, "What else was I supposed to do?" he looked at her and knew exactly what she was thinking. She didn't have to say anything for her to argue with him, "Everyone was there Eira staring at me, waiting for me to accept. There was no way that I could say no." He took a moment and then said, "Not after what I caused."

"From what you caused? Hiccup you didn't-"

He cut her off yelling what he wouldn't say to anyone else, only her. "After everything, I just told you. Were you not listening?! I killed their Chief, my- my father." He held her arms as he spoke, "I almost killed you." He sighed fighting back tears again. "The least I can do is be a Chief my dad wanted me to be, right?"

She sighed holding him softly, touching his cheek and stroking it lightly to feel his stubble under her thumb. "He would want you to be happy, just as I do."

He leaned into her touch missing it terribly. He held her hand there trying to memorize her touch, her scent, even her warmth that was slowly coming back to her. His green eyes looked at her taking in her small smile and the light rose pink cheeks against her cream color skin. He said her name softly drawing her attention toward the next words he was going to say. Words that he held back for years. Words that would have to wait as Astrid came in with Gothi and another healer to finally inspect the girl in bed. He stood back next to Astrid nervously biting his thumb as they waited to hear how his wife was.

What seemed like hours, was only moments and they were relieved to hear she would be fine. It would be a while until she gained momentum to what she had before the accident but it would be back, thankfully. Not only that but the stitches in her head were fine and would be removed in the days to come. All of it was good news for the girl and even agreed to meet her friends when asked if she wanted some visitors.

Everyone gathered around her made it almost impossible for Hiccup to even see her in their small crowd then again two Night Furies in the room didn't help either. He could hear her laughter though and that was enough to keep him calm. He even jumped when someone addressed him and only smiled when seeing that it was his mom.

"So, this is the girl you and your father were boasting about in the cave."

Hiccup nodded a faint blush appearing on his freckled cheeks when she mention how pretty she was. Hearing Eira laugh brought out his smile again. "She really is something else."

Eyeing her son and his actions, she smiled. She knew all too well how he was feeling and she was happy for him, but she was still a mother, "as long as you are happy son then you do not need to convince me of her."

Again he nodded but then apologized, "Sorry she tried to attack you. Didn't think your first meeting would be like that."

Valka smiled patting her son's shoulder, "Wouldn't expect anything less from Viking, but you're wrong."

He was confused by that statement.

"This isn't the first time I've met her."

"What?!"

She chuckled at his reaction and explained. "You two are children of Chieftains when she was born well I was done being stuck on an island and we went to give our gift in person. I don't recommend it, never thought a small babe could be as seasick as much as you. We made it though. Only I forgot the gift."

"What did you do?" he laughed realizing another piece of him was just like his mom.

"Luckily Merelle and Illfuss were very kind and understanding. Merelle just wanted someone to talk to and that was enough as a gift as any." Valka sighed happily at the memory. "Seeing you two playing on that bear skin rug warms any new mother's heart." Another chuckle left the older woman, but she wouldn't speak as she looked at the female, who was laughing with the other and ashamedly apologizing to the now ex-trapper.

Before Hiccup could ask, their friends called him over and he excused him from his mother's presence. The long-lost mother smiled as she watched her son interact with the young girl and although she felt off by being there and had lost so much time with her child at least she was there now to see him happy with a woman that he was clearly in love with.

Days later Eira was up and walking around with her trusty dragon. The dragon however was not trusting of those around them. People who passed them jumped out of the way of snapping jaws. Annoyed when doing it again Eira tried to redirect the uneasiness of the reptile.

"Dust please they are just walking by. No one around here is out to hurt you or me."

The dragon didn't pay attention as she growled at a small group of terrible terrors who flew away immediately not wanting to upset someone her size. The only time she seemed to relax was when her certain male landed just in front of them and she stopped to straighten herself out almost trying to impress the other. She let out a low purr-like growl towards him and flared her tail out in front of her like a fan.

This grabbed the attention of the male and he did his best to acknowledge that he wanted his friend off his back by shaking him slightly. Once he was free he began to rush over toward her but halted when noticing she was not pleased with his eagerness. So, he slowed his pace and held his head a bit higher looking more regal as he walked.

Dust moved up to him, circling around him along with tracing her tail around him and then under his chin before sitting closer to him.

Toothless did the same brushing his body against hers until returning to his spot and then ushering her to come along with him away from the village and their humans. She happily followed leaving the two humans by themselves and one wondering how he was going to complete his task now that his ride was gone.

Hiccup was in annoying disbelief at the display and asked the girl next to him. "Is it me or has Dust been more,"

"Accepting," she tried to finish his thought.

"Flirty," he smirked at her. "Flirty towards Toothless."

She smiled back and said, "What do you expect? He is the alpha now and who goes against an alpha, especially when he likes you." She lightly pushed him making him laugh at her attempt at flirting.

"Yeah, well it's cutting into my time to finish what I need to do."

She smiled and grabbed his hand, "Oh, let them have some fun. Besides, it means you can take a break, Chief."

He smiled but shook his head, "Nah, there's still much to do. Seems like a Chief's job is never done."

"No job too small when it comes to servicing the people."

"Exactly," he went to walk away but was stopped from taking another step as Eira held his hand. He laughed but was confused until she asked him.

"And what about servicing your wife?" the tone she used made sure there was no doubt in what she was suggesting and if Hiccup needed any more convincing she pulled him closer to her and acted slightly coy towards him.

"A break might do me some good."

She blushed as she held onto his arm and they walked to a more secluded place.

As they were walking Hiccup told everyone who stopped them the same thing which made Eira giggle when they walked away. "Sorry can't help. Taking a break. If you need anything Astrid can help."

When they were far enough away from any sort of eyes Eira had to compliment the Viking. She wrapped her arms around him and smiled when his hands went around her waist. "Well, I have to say you have done a marvelous job delegating my dear Chief."

"Why thank you, my dear wife," he grinned and leaned down to capture her lips. Doing so he pulled her in closer happy to feel her weight and warmth in his arms. The kiss was soft and slow. It lasted moments for the couple both enjoying the small sensations of the kiss. Both carried a small blush on their cheeks when they pulled apart. Eira's only grew a deeper shade as Hiccup whispered to her, "I love you." He was smiling but when he looked at her the smile fell seeing her shocked expression, "W-what's wrong?"

Her eyes were still wide as she asked him to repeat his words. "What did you just say?"

"What did I," then it dawned on him and he nervously told her, "I… I love you, Eira." He watched her, afraid of her reaction, afraid of his clumsy confession. He gulped when she asked him to repeat it once more, "I love you." Then it all went away when she began to smile and he heard the laughter in her voice asking him,

"Again. Say it again."

His grin was wider as he pulled her closer telling her once more, "I love you, Eira." And right before he kissed her, she whispered against his lips.

"And I love you, Hiccup."

When they kissed each other it seemed different, like they weren't hiding something anymore. Neither cared about that as they continued to deepen their kiss. Slowly pieces of clothing were disappearing off them and it wasn't long until the male Viking was laying his wife down in the tall grass hiding themselves within the blades. His lips moved down her jawline to kiss and nip at the delicate skin along her neck. His callous hands traced the definition of her arms down towards her chest, massaging her breast as he focused on her neck and the quiet moans she was releasing.

Her hands found their way into his auburn hair. Her nails lightly scratched his scalp keeping his head in place so he could continue his assault on her skin.

Hiccup was not the sort of Viking that you could keep in one place though and he proved that once again as he easily slipped away from Eira's grasp and made his way down her chest. He smirked when she called his name breathlessly but chuckled when she gasped as his tongue flickered over her nipple before he gently sucked on it. Then his cunning lips began to move further down, kissing and nipping down her stomach enjoying the velvet softness of her body. His hands rubbed down her thighs holding them apart as he continued south. He stopped just below her belly button when she called out his name. He could only smirk at her breathless state as he asked her, "Are you trying to stop a Viking from going on his voyage? A voyage that would bring him untold pleasure?" His breath was hot against her skin as he spoke and began to tease her with the light touch of his lips again.

She lightly moan and nodded. Calling out to him she played his game. "If my Viking headed north I could truly show him the treasure he has been seeking."

The grin on his face could not be wiped away, but he heeded the words of his wife and settled in between her legs towering over her as his hands settled on either side of her head. He leaned down and whispered to her, "And what could my lovely wife offer me to make me change course?"

"This," was all she whispered before kissing him deeply and angling her hips in a way so that she could push his throbbing cock into her swiftly.

A gritted gasp escaped him when he buried himself fully inside her. It was so easy to rock back and forth with her being so wet. He kept his pace each time he thrust into her he seemed to go a tad harder, eloping himself in the feeling of the head of his cock hitting against the entrance of her womb. Eira also enjoyed it as she gasped and moaned his name, doing her best to rock her own hips to his pace.

"Eira," he moaned into her ear, resting on his elbows now. "Oh Gods, Eira."

"Hiccup," she repeated holding onto his back and her legs wrapped around his waist. "I'm close Hiccup, please." She was panting now, begging even.

All he could do was nod and moan in response, but she had one more request for him as they were nearing their climax.

"Please, Hiccup," she pleaded, "please tell me again. Tell me you love me."

He groaned and hissed even as he went faster pounding into her cunt. At first, the Gods' name sounded like a curse, but when he said her name and the three words she wanted, it was sounding more like a mantra, a chant of how much he truly loved the woman that was below him.

With that, it wasn't long until he grunted feeling her walls clamp around him making him fill her womb with his seed. He then whimpered when she moved to put her legs down, the small movement creating pleasure for him. Catching his breath he leaned down to kiss her forehead and then her temple. He did this before pulling out of her and laying beside her. The cool grass cooled his skin as he lay there.

Eira shifted to lay her head on his chest trying her best like him to regain their composure after their pleasurable activity. Neither hid their smile as they held each other. Hiccup's lengthy nimble fingers traced lazy patterns on her shoulder and arm. He also had the urge to tell her how much he truly loved her, but he held back. Instead, he happily sighed and kissed the top of her head. His smile grew when he felt her snuggle closer to him. Yes, the new Chief of Berk was definitely content at this moment and he could only hope that there were more times like this than less.

A/n: Thank you for your patience. Please leave a comment or favorite if you enjoyed this part of the story.