Chapter Sixteen: A Few Betrayals Later, and…


Matt finished strapping his saddle to Wasatch. Making sure the bindings were secured and wouldn't fall off, he took a step back and asked "Feel good boy? The bites' not bugging you is it? Wings feel good?"

Wasatch growled in acknowledgement. Standing up straight, he looked down at Matt and stuck his chest out. He let lightning arc up and down his back, challenging the thought that he was hurting.

"Good to hear bud…" Matt whispered, letting a crack of a smile show on his face. Looking off his deck, he saw the sun just starting to peak out of the ocean. It was red, as was the sky. Usually meant a storm was brewing somewhere. "Alright then, I guess we better go get Darien." He whispered hoarsely.

After last night events of patching up Stormfly and learning Astrid was hostage, he had Hiccup tell him everything that happened between him, Ukiah, and this monster name Strogg. Hiccup refused to talk about Ukiah and Astrid, saying that he wasn't going to tell her side of that…relationship.

Apparently, a chief of a big and strong land, was angry that Stoick and the Berkian's stole Ukiah and his Sand Wraith from his arena. A gladiator styled cage fight. He chased them across the sea with his massive fleet and army, invading Berk. Apparently, Strogg captured Hiccup and Toothless, which Ukiah challenged the vengeful chief to a duel. The winner got either Hiccup, if it was Ukiah; or Astrid, if Strogg won. Stoick traded prisoners for Toothless.

Shaking his head, he recounted the tale of how Ukiah was able to beat Strogg, even after several times of being hit and almost killed. Right when he was about to bring the ending blow down onto Strogg, Strogg pulled a blade out of his gut and rammed it into the center of his chest. Ukiah should've died. But was able to stand over Strogg as victor. Unfortunately, though Ukiah survived the duel, so did Strogg.

Sighing, he shook his head. It was something no one really expected. But since Ukiah started to make an effort to come back, Strogg also got involved. "Why did you keep this a secret from me?" He whispered, thinking about Hiccup as he walked up the ramp. The entire thought of Ukiah and his life being kept in the dark made him burn with an anger towards Hiccup. If he was hiding something like this, what else could he be hiding? Swearing under his breath, he then thought "We could have probably avoided this entire mess if we were thinking about Strogg…"

"Matt…you sure about this?" His thoughts were interrupted, as he approached the clubhouse. Turning, he saw Heather and Hiccup standing from their seats.

"Don't have much of a choice, do we?" He replied, forcing a small smile on his face "The prick has Astrid. He's demanding that I bring Darien east. Alone." Shaking his head "No. I'm not sure about this. But what choice do we have? If he's anything like what you said Hiccup, he'll kill Astrid before we can do anything about it. Regardless if she's a trophy to him or not."

Heather shuddered at the word trophy. Shaking her head, she growled "I'm going to kill that man…"

"Only if there's something left of him after Wasatch and I are through with him…" Matt added, his eyes growing cold and hardened.

"Guys, focus." Hiccup cut in, grabbing them by their shoulders "Trust me, I want to get back at him too. But we have to focus on the first step before we think about revenge." Starting to walk them down to the hanger where the twins, Snotlout and Fishlegs were waiting, he then said "Matt, whatever you do, just be careful with Strogg. He usually honors his word, but he didn't promise anything in the ransom."

"I'll be careful. I'm just going to meet up, give them Darien, take Astrid, and bug out." Matt replied, pulling over his snowboard goggles, so they were hanging around his neck "Simple yeah?"

"It's never simple with Strogg. Or anyone for that matter." Hiccup whispered, frowning at Matt's light attitude.

"I know that Hiccup!" He growled, rolling his eyes "But it's not going to help me if I'm all wired and jumpy."

Hiccup just nodded, knowing it was just how Matt dealt with stress. Arriving at the hanger, they saw Darien ready to go. Escorted by Snotlout, her hands were still tied in front of her, but were lashed down as a rope pinned her arms to her side.

"Ready for another date Matt?" Darien teased, being pushed forward by Snotlout "What does Heather think about this?"

"I'm ready to drop you in the ocean." He huffed back, his blood running cold.

"Really? What about Astri-Mmpph?!" She tried to say, but the twins stuffed a cloth in her mouth.

"Man. She talks way more than us!" Tuffnut said, holding the gag in her mouth.

"Good thing we're not as annoying as her. Huh Darien?" Ruffnut teased, tying another cloth around her head and dirty blonde ponytail.

"Rrrr…" She growled, glaring at Ruffnut with hate as Snotlout grabbed her to keep walking

"I asked them to do that." Heather piped up, walking up to Matt "Figured you were dreading riding with and having to listen to her.

Watching Snotlout force Darien to sit on Wasatch, Matt turned and let a real smile grow on his face. "Heh, thank you. Glad I don't have to listen to her." He joked. Shaking his head, he laughed "I think I'd rather face another wild Skrill again."

Heather smiled, happy to see him returning to normal. Then, ever so slowly, she bowed her head and let the smile slowly disappear.

"Hey, what's wrong?" Matt asked, raising her chin up so she was looking at him "I'm only going to be gone for a few hours. You'll see!"

"Will you though?" She asked with a concerned look "Matt, we don't know anything about this guy. We don't even know how he got Astrid without any of us knowing!"

"And I'll be extra careful." Matt assured "Wasatch and I will be looking for anything out of the ordinary during the exchange. That I can promise."

Heather could only look at Matt, nodding. "Make sure you give Darien a scare or two for me, ok?"

"For your sake, sure." Matt laughed, hugging her tightly.

"Rrrrmhhmm!" Darien groaned, making everyone turn to look at her.

Wasatch was smiling as Darien stared down at him with surprised eyes. Her hair was standing on end, showing that he had shocked her and was laughing about it.

"Look, Wasatch already knows what kind of person she is!" Matt laughed, looking down at Heather. Seeing her laugh, he then had the question in his mind come up. A little awkward, he asked "Hey, so…do I get a good-bye kiss?"

Shocked, Heather looked up at him. A real, relaxed smile grew on her face, turning into her confident smirk "Tell you what. Come back with Astrid, and I'll give you a welcome back kiss. Deal?"

Matt smiled, seeing the game she was playing "Deal." He agreed "If that's the case, guess I'll have to hurry."

"Sounds like it." Heather replied, lightly pushing him away.

"Remember Matt, if there's anything that looks like a trap, don't meet with him." Hiccup warned, watching Matt activate his brace and leap in front of Darien.

"Will do Hiccup." He grunted, strapping himself in. Testing the bindings out of habit, he then looked at gang, saying "Just worry about Stormfly. I'll worry about Astrid. Deal?"

"Sounds good. Be careful Matt." Hiccup whispered, nodding in acknowledgement.

"Don't worry! Heather's in good hands with me!" Snotlout shouted, stepping up next to her. Heather let out a groan of disgust and hopelessness.

Laughing, Matt urged Wasatch to launch into the air, which he did.

"MMMMHHHHMMM!" Darien tried to scream, using her hands to hold onto Matt's binding.

"Please Darien…" Matt called out, not turning to face her. Pulling up his goggles, he then finished saying "At least pretend you're as tough as you talk yourself to be. Didn't you want to ride a dragon yourself?"

At that, he turned Wasatch east and began to search for the ship that Astrid was supposed to be held.


"There…" Matt whispered, peering below the clouds. After heading east for the past four hours, he finally found the ship. It wasn't large by any means, but big enough that it needed a small crew. It looked like a trading ship, but instead of a wood cabin, it had poles with blankets as covers. The single mast had a worn and torn sail. Originally white, it was now yellow with all the years of weathering the elements. It looked old and patched.

Taking a deep breath, Matt said a prayer, and then slowly descended below the clouds. Wasatch started to growl the closer they flew to the ship. Matt instantly banked him away, trusting his instincts that something was wrong. Now arriving closer, he passed by it at a healthy distance, looking at what was on deck.

The crew of the ship wasn't that much. Six or seven. A single man near the bow waved at him, beckoning him to come. He looked rather plain. Wearing only a thick leather vest and some wool pants, the only thing notable on him was a decorative looking shield strapped to his back. He wore a war axe at the belt, letting it dangle on his hip.

Matt still took his time, gliding in a slow circle around the ship. He couldn't see Astrid, and he didn't want to just land and fall into a trap.

"MMmhhm!" Darien growled, hitting his binding. She was frustrated as Matt continued to circle the ship, very slowly getting closer to it.

"Yeah, let me hurry into a trap that's probably been set up for me." Matt huffed, ignoring her muffled insults and attempted punches.

"Dragon rider! We're waiting!" The man that waved to him shouted "If you delay any more, we'll just kill the girl now!"

"Where is she?" He shouted, letting Wasatch hover in place "Until I see her, I'm not coming close!"

The man turned and shouted something, obviously angry at the demand. Matt just watched as a couple of men scrambled, disappearing behind the blankets. A few short moments later, Matt gritted his teeth as he watch a man carry Astrid over his shoulder. She was bound hand and foot, with a hood over her head.

"There, does that satisfy you?" The man roared, having her set on her knees. Grabbing the hood, he pulled it off of her, revealing that she was gagged. She just blinked to help her eyes adjust to the midday light, as well as her bearings. Getting her eyesight, she turned and glared at the man, who stood proudly over her. Looking at where the man was staring at, she saw Matt and Darien.

"Hmhm! NNHhhmm!" She tried to yell, shaking her head and motioning him to get away.

"Fair enough…" He whispered, letting Wasatch slowly fly towards the ship. The closer he got, the clearer he could see her face. She was looking at him with a fearful expression, something rare to see. Seeing Astrid like that, it was everything for him to not let Wasatch rip the ship apart. The men must've expected him to do just that, because one of them had a bow drawn and had the arrow resting in Astrid's back; ready to take her life.

Wasatch growled, baring his teeth as he prepared to land. Unlike some of Ryker's men and hunters they fought against, these men didn't back down. He had a sinking pit feeling as Wasatch landed on the deck.

Suddenly the archer who had his bow aimed at Astrid, raised the bow and fired at Wasatch, nailing him in the chest.

"Reeeaa!" He screeched, folding over and tossing Darien onto the deck! Matt was still strapped to him, and forcefully crashed into the deck on his back.

"Mmmmm!" Astrid shouted, fighting the man that kept her back.

"Dammit!" Matt shouted, unstrapping himself from his bindings. Rolling to his feet, he looked up to see Wasatch struggling to even function. The single arrow stuck out of his chest. A dragon root arrow. Matt saw a two men reach and grab Darien, helping her onto her feet and pulling out the gag.

"Hah!" She jeered, letting them untie her "Oh we're going to have fun Matt…"

"I thought this was an exchange!" He roared, glaring at the man who was holding Astrid.

"Heheheh...you dragon riders are still fools…" A voice calmly called to his left.

Facing the direction of the voice, Matt gasped as he stared at a giant of a man. He had a cloak on, but his hood was down. He wore a thick dragon hide tunic, acting as armor. His arms and shoulders were clad with dragon bone, shaped to protect his body. His hair was gray with years, as was his beard. A nasty scar ran down his face. In-between the eyes and along the nose. His eyes were so black that the light from the sun seemed to be absorbed into them. He carried the largest axe Matt ever saw as well. Having to be at least six feet long, with a massive executioner style axe head. He carried it with both hands; the axe level with his waist. His right arm had chunks of flesh missing, having the surface similar to that of the moon; at least, the parts that weren't covered by the armor.

"…Nnnnhhmmm…" Astrid growled. She stared at the man with a burning anger.

"This never was an exchange." The man whispered coldly, his black eyes burning into Matt's "It's an execution!" Before Matt could even respond or react, the man brought his axe back and the swung it as hard as he could, using the side of the axe like a hammer.

Crack! The flat side of the axe smashed into Matt's head and face, sounding like his head was split open. There wasn't much he could remember, or see. He could only recall the sound of the axe hitting him, and a paralyzing pain shooting through his head and down his body. Feeling himself being launched backwards, he could only let himself fall. Unable to keep up with the events, he felt himself splash into water just as he began to slip into a black world. Floating there, it almost felt magical, as if suspended midair. His eyesight began to fade in and out; catching glimpses of red mixing with the sunrays shining through the water, he let out one last gasp from his lungs as he fell lower and lower into the black abyss. He swore he saw a black angel in the water coming closer to him, but he lost sight and feeling as he let it overcome him.


Astrid stared in horror as she watched Matt get thrown backwards, with blood spraying from his head. While flying backwards, his legs hit the wall of the ship and made him flip over backwards. She could only hear the splash of him falling into the ocean. Wasatch let out a cry of helplessness, unable to even stand or radiate lightning. Flopping on the deck, two crew members quickly jumped on him and held him in place.

"MMMHHHHPPH!" Astrid shouted, launching herself forward. Falling onto her stomach, she fought the ropes with extra energy. She couldn't let him die! Before she could even push herself away, she was pulled back, and placed on her feet. Looking up, she stared helplessly and angrily at Strogg. "Now…we just need you to draw that brat to us…" He growled, his eyes narrowing at her "Bring Ukiah to me…"

"Whoa…" Darien piped in, making Strogg to turn to look at her. Staring at where Matt was standing moments ago, she then said "I was honestly hoping to keep him prisoner. I wanted to get even with him. Eh, oh well; he's dead now."

"Grrmphh!" Astrid shouted, shifting her body angrily towards Darien with her eyes burning with an angry fire.

"We don't take prisoners." Strogg growled, using his cloak to wipe the blood that splattered on his axe. Letting an evil smile grow on his face, he looked at Astrid and whispered "Only trophies…"

Astrid just glared at him with a cold anger, the only thing she wished more than to kill him, was to be given the chance to save Matt.

"Put her back in the net, and then secure the dragon. We have what we came for…plus Astrid." Strogg then ordered, turning to face Darien, who was rubbing her wrists to get the feeling back "You're Darien?"

"That I am!" She replied with a smile "Did Dagur send you?"

"And Ryker…" He whispered hoarsely, his eyes studying Darien "Hmph, you don't look like much to me..."

"What's that supposed to mean?" She cried out angrily, shocked at the comment.

"It means, you're not going to be given a free bed here." He growled, turning to walk away "Ugo, put her to work. When we meet up with Ryker and Dagur at their island, she'll be free to leave."

"Yes, my chief." Ugo acknowledged, finishing hoisting the net that held the struggling Astrid. Tying the rope off, he then walked up to Darien who just stared at him in disbelief. "Come on." He huffed, grabbing her arm and pulling her to the back side of the ship "The deck needs sweeping. Then you can help Hroth with cooking."

"Excuse me?! I'm Dagur's second-in-command!" She cried out, being dragged along "Not a no name nobody!"

"You're nobody on this ship." Ugo snapped back, glaring at her "You're just a package. A package that needs to start sweeping, or you'll join that dragon rider in the drink!" Grabbing a broom, he shoved it into her chest and walked off. "Torulf, Lars, help me with the beast!"

Darien just stared in disbelief, realizing that these allies weren't really allies at all! Reluctantly, and rather angrily, she began to sweep the deck.

Astrid continued to twist and turn. Kicking at the net in vain, she simply leaned against the ropes. Tears were forming in her eyes. She just witnessed Matt get murdered by Strogg! And she couldn't do a thing to either save him or to help him in any way! Shutting her eyes in pain, she let a few tears slowly fall down her cheeks. She shook her head at the nightmare and let out an anguished moan, unable to really vent the anger and mourning she had bottled up inside her.

He was dead. Matt the Dragon Boarder, the Skrill Master, Hiccup's descendant… and her friend, was gone…


The night was cool and crisp. With the moon barely shining, the stars were still plenty visible. Littering the night sky like shells on a beach. Standing on the cliff, overlooking the shore, Ryker thought of the near future. If his plan worked, then Hiccup Haddock and the dragon riders would be flying directly to them, as Viggo wanted them too. Turning around, he looked down the circular pathway that led to his brother's camp. Viggo's tent was well lit and located in the center.

After explaining to him that the stranger named Strogg had approached him, Viggo was more than happy about having another person helping them. Though he was confused as to why Ryker and Dagur demanded he get Darien back, rather than the Dragon Eye. Ryker explained that it was because he didn't trust Strogg, and didn't want him to have the important relic for himself.

"Ship ahoy!" Ryker heard, making turn to watch the small landing for Viggo's island. Sure enough, Strogg's ship was in view and coming closer.

"Oh good. They're finally here." Dagur said aloud, stretching from where he was laying "Wonder if it was a success. Or if they just gave up and came here."

Ryker didn't say anything. Standing still, he just watched the ship slowly make its way to a lone dock, away from where the fleet was moored at. His eyes narrowed as he watched two men climb down. It was easy to tell who they were, given the size of one of them. Strogg and Ugo began to march up to them, with Strogg still using his axe as a walking staff.

Then, jumping off the ship, was the sight that told both Ryker and Dagur he had succeeded. Darien began to jog up the path, though she looked angry.

"Ryker…" Strogg growled stopping in front of him "A deal's a deal. Here's Darien. And I have a dragon as demanded. Though we'll talk about that later."

"And I already talked to my brother. He's ready to meet with yeh." Ryker confirmed, watching Darien glare at Ugo as she walked by.

"Darien! "You're finally back and free! Are you alright?" Dagur asked loudly, causing Strogg and Ryker to glare at him. Ignoring them, he grabbed her in a big hug.

"I'm fine! But these guys made me do all their grunt work!" She spat, not taking her eyes off of Ugo "Scrubbed their deck, washed their clothes, fed the Skrill."

"Wait, you fed what?!" Dagur cried out, staring at Strogg and Ugo and ignoring Darien's complaining.

"As agreed. Though we're going to keep it until we see something we want. Then we'll be willing to trade it." Ugo replied, an evil smile growing "Perhaps one of your ships…loaded with supplies and men."

"We can talk about this later." Strogg interrupted, stopping the subject. Glaring at Ryker, he then growled "Take me to your brother. I've waited long enough."

Ryker nodded, turning around and walking down the path way. Strogg and Ugo followed, though now a lot more cautiously.

Dagur and Darien tailed behind the three, staying out of ear shot. "They got the Skrill? Which one?" He whispered, looking at her with excitement.

"Yeah, though they've had to keep stabbing it with dragon root arrows." She answered back, equally quiet "But that's not all. It's Wasatch."

"Wasatch? But…how did they get him away from Matt?" Dagur gasped, staring at her in shock and amazement.

"They killed him." She replied, shrugging at the answer "They used Astrid as a hostage to get me back, and-"

"They killed Matt?! And captured Astrid too?!" Dagur gaped, not believing what he was hearing "Yo-you're kidding me?"

"No. They kidnapped Astrid and used her to draw him and Wasatch to them. With me of course." She explained "As soon as he landed, they shot Wasatch and Strogg pushed Matt overboard. Well, more like cracked his skull and launched him overboard." Smiling, she then said "Astrid's been broken since."

"Unbelievable…" Dagur whispered, watching Strogg and Ugo follow Ryker closely "I guess they can be trusted."

"Not really. They're only helpful when you have something they want. How did you meet them anyways?" She asked, raising an eyebrow "They weren't exactly hospitable to me."

"They came to us. They need help tracking a lone rider and his dragon." Dagur explained.

"Who?" She followed up with, intrigued at the thought of another dragon rider.

"Dunno. Never heard of him." He shrugged "They say his name is Ukiah. And he rides a dragon similar to a Night Fury. Apparently used to live with Hiccup, until Strogg chased after him."

"Really? Huh, guess we have another dragon to hunt after." Darien replied with a smile.

By this time, the group arrived at the large central tent. Ryker walked in first, his voice low and muffled. After a few moments, he stepped back out and held the tent flap open. "He's ready to meet yeh…"

Strogg's eyes narrowed as he stepped forward, with Ugo right behind him. Dagur and Darien just stood there, to which Ryker growled "Yeh too."

Darien swallowed, realizing that she was going to be meeting Viggo. The man that apparently controlled Ryker. Stepping through with her ancestor, she stared at the man sitting at a lone table, playing with a small stone figurine. He had spiked shoulder guards, and a dark brown, almost black weaved leather vest; under which was a tunic that looked like red dyed dragon scales. He carried a single sword, strapped to his back; and had a confidence about him that set him apart from anyone else she saw. He looked like a leader. No, not leader; a mastermind.

Strogg and Ugo stood up to him, waiting to be addressed.

"They say there are two ways to be fooled. One is to believe what isn't true." Viggo began to say, finally looking up at his guests "And the other is to refuse to believe what is." With an evil smile, he then said "Maces and Talons."

Strogg just glared at Viggo, already not liking what he was hearing.

Chuckling, Viggo stood up and said "I began playing with my grandfather when I was just a boy. I always insisted that I be the Honorable Viking Chief. I could never understand how he bested me time and time again…" He laughed, reliving his past as he stared at the stone figurine in his hand. Looking up at Strogg, he explained "For years, I assumed his skill transcended mine. I believed what wasn't true. But you see, in Maces and Talons, as in life, the line between good and evil is often unclear. Black and white often become grey. What one person considers evil, another may consider righteous."

"Aye. Only results matter in life." Strogg growled, staring into Viggo's eyes "Those that achieve their dreams are the only ones that truly live." Reaching up, he took the stone figurine from Viggo's hand, saying "I too played Maces and Talons. Though, after being beat a couple of times, I finally resorted to one strategy that never failed me. Regardless if I played as the chief or the villain."

"Oh? And what strategy was that?" Viggo asked, intrigued at the claim.

Strogg then closed his hand and then squeezed it. A loud crack sounded, to which he revealed a smashed and broken piece. "I simply destroy my opponent by ignoring the rules."

"Interesting." Viggo replied, turning around and walking back to the table. Grabbing something from a small box, he then asked "What if they come back? Stronger where they simply can't be destroyed?" At that he revealed another figurine, the exact same as the one Strogg crushed in his hand.

"Everything can be destroyed. Nothing is invincible." He growled, narrowing his eyes.

"Ah, but nothing is black and white…" Viggo quietly corrected "Where you adapt and get stronger, so do your opponents."

"I'm not here to debate philosophy." Strogg growled "I'm wondering if you're even able to help me."

"Yes…my brother told me of your request." Viggo replied, smiling at Strogg "Even after all my years of dragon hunting and trapping, I've never seen a dragon that you described. I have no idea where to look or how to draw it to us."

"I already have a way to draw it to me. I just need help tracking it! Before, this dragon and rider would leave hints where they were going, as we've been fighting each other for years. But now, he's just vanished. I just know he's in this archipelago!" Strogg roared "I don't need to know what it eats, or where it's from, I just need help tracking the devil!"

"I'll help. But in order for me to do so, I need the Dragon Eye." Viggo calmly explained

"I already did a task for you…" Strogg whispered darkly, his black eyes digging into Viggo's. Gripping his axe, he then demanded "You have to honor the agreement your brother made to me!"

"The agreement was to meet with me." Viggo corrected, not backing down from the giant "And I already agreed to help you track this…mystery. But in order for me to do so, I need the Dragon Eye. It has information on all dragons that have ever existed. Until then, I'm quite limited in my ability to help you."

"I have a girl. A girl the rider named Ukiah cares about." Strogg explained, trying his hardest to swallow his anger "I fought a dragon to get her, and killed a rider to keep her! I just need you to tell me where to go!"

"Ah, that does help. At least to bait him in closer." Viggo agreed, seeing Strogg calm down somewhat. Though he didn't show it, he secretly was ready to fight the giant. Even with Ryker, Dagur, and Darien; he knew Strogg and Ugo would still give them a run for their money. "The Dragon Eye would help me give you a specific area to go to. Even ways to track it. Potentially. Though, I think this girl you have will help us in our ability to draw the riders to us anywhere. The Dragon Eye, can help us set up a meeting point that gives you the absolute advantage."

"Then where is your Dragon Eye." Ugo spoke up, stepping forward with his chief "We'll get it for you if you're unable to…but then you have to drop everything and help us find that rider!"

"Hiccup and his dragon riders have it." Ryker answered, making both Strogg and Ugo turn to face him.

"What?!" Strogg roared, his blood pumping through "You needed this…Eye, and you had me grab her?!" He gestured to Darien. "You never told me about this…artifact that you needed!" He screamed, slowly readying his axe.

"We wasted our time drawing one of those riders out, killing him, and capturing his dragon, for a worthless prisoner? Rather than the tool that we both need?!" Ugo followed up with, stepping up to Ryker with his eyes bulging out. Drawing his axe, he then yelled "We risked ourselves to get a useless soldier, when the real target was completely withheld from us?!"

"I never trusted yeh…" Ryker growled, stepping up to Ugo and slowly going for his sword "I wasn't wanting to tell yeh about our treasure right away!"

"Enough brother, stand down. These are our guests. And new allies." Viggo calmly said, walking past Strogg and Ugo. Pushing Ryker's sword back down, he then turned to Strogg and said "I assure you, after what you did to get Darien back, we will be more than up front with you. Though I am disappointed to hear you killed a dragon rider, as they're worth more to me alive than dead."

"Call it even then…" Strogg growled, slowly releasing his grip on his axe. Ugo also reluctantly slid his axe back into his belt, glaring at Ryker. Strogg then explained "Every time you keep a secret from us, we'll kill something that you value."

"For this moment, I'll agree with that." Viggo nodded, though with a frown "However, tomorrow, let's discuss what we can do to draw the riders to us. I'm sure it's been a long day for you and your crew."

"Fine…" Strogg growled, standing up straight and putting his cloak's hood up "We'll talk tomorrow. But the Skrill and Astrid stay with me."

Dagur was about to protest, but was stopped by Ryker. Viggo then said "For tonight. However, if we want to have all our end goals accomplished, we need to be…more sharing with our spoils…"

"We'll talk…" Strogg growled, turning to walk out of the tent.

Ugo gave Ryker one last glare, and then turned and followed his chief.

Ryker let out an angry huff as he made sure they were alone, saying "Who are these people, brother? Why are we still working with 'em?"

"They're merciless killers." Viggo began to explain, shaking his head slightly "I've been tracking them for a few months now. Unlike us, they don't usually bother keeping dragons alive. Or restrain themselves from killing, as we found out."

"They're maniacs…" Ryker growled, still staring at the tent flap.

"Aye, but helpful." Viggo agreed, turning his attention to Dagur and Darien. He then said "Please, go rest. We have much to discuss and plan tomorrow." As they all began to leave, he then gently grabbed Darien's shoulder and added "She can stay though."

Dagur looked at Viggo, and then to Darien. Unsure of the reason, he reluctantly followed Ryker out. Darien turned to Viggo, confused at why she was staying.

"Come, walk with me." He calmly ordered, guiding her to walk alongside.

Darien wondered what he was going to talk about, and more importantly, why her. She wasn't scared, though she wondered if she should be. Following Viggo out of another tent flap, she couldn't help but think of how he made her feel like they were already friends. After a short hike out of the tent, they looked down on the camp, at which Viggo finally asked "I trust my brother has treated you well?"

"Yes." Darien answered, nodding to add to her answer "Quite well. Though, maybe a little suspicious, but I understand the need of that."

"Do you?" Viggo asked, letting a calming smile grow on his face.

Taken back by the question, Darien then shrugged, explaining "Yeah. I mean, that's how we were able to get all our advantages over Hiccup and his gang. They never suspected any of our actions. I see that and understand it's always better to question the possibilities; instead of living with regrettable results. Ryker does well in that aspect."

"Wise words." Viggo complimented, nodding in agreement "It takes someone special to recognize weaknesses; but more importantly, able to recognize and admit strengths."

Darien just stared at him, unsure if he was being sincere, or playing her.

"Tell me Darien. What are your thoughts on your…relative, Dagur?" He asked, watching for her reaction.

"How did you know we were related?" She asked, shocked that he knew.

"Ryker has been in contact with me. He's told me about you and Dagur frequently; and about your willingness to help, but more importantly, your usefulness." Viggo explained, looking down at his camp below "Now, what do you think of your relative?"

"Dagur? I think he's a little insane, but clever at least. He can usually think through most problems. And come up with solutions." She began to list, only to be interrupted.

"I mean his loyalty. Is he loyal to me? To the Dragon Hunters and our goals?" Viggo clarified, letting a soft smile grow on his face.

Raising an eyebrow, she then asked "What's this about?"

"I know what Dagur wants you to become. A dragon rider." He began to say, guiding her to continue walking with him up the path "It was the entire reason why you were captured in the first place, yes?"

"Getting the Dragon Book, yes. I thought that would help me know how to train one on my own. Though the riders think I was trying to get it to see what they learned about dragons." She explained "I told them…half-truths." Eyeing Viggo, she then stopped and questioned "What are you getting at Viggo? Are you suggesting Dagur's going to betray you?"

Smiling, he simply answered with "I'm suggesting that you live with your words of wisdom. Suspect all things. He's a leader of another tribe, and only has known what it's like to be in charge. Not take orders. It's the same thing with Strogg. I know I have to be very…uh…careful with him." Stepping up to her, he then said "I know Dagur wants you to ride that Skrill that Strogg captured, but I have something different in mind. I know a previously trained beast isn't the easiest to earn its trust from."

Taken back, she then asked "What do you mean? You don't want me to ride a Skrill?"

Smiling, he then guided her to continue walking "I would like to have you come with me. I have something to show you. After we talk with Strogg and Ugo, as well as Ryker and Dagur tomorrow, we're going to train a different dragon for you to ride."

"What kind is it?" She repeated, realizing that he was taking her directly under his wing.

Smiling, he walked her towards a small cave in a cliff, guarded by five hunters. They immediately moved out of the way, letting the two walk in. Darien couldn't help but notice that there weren't any torches in the cave, but a faint glow in the back.

Rounding around the corner of a turn, she gasped as she stared at a blue glowing dragon in a cage. A hefty muzzle was strapped to it. Its eyes were glowing a light blue, almost white. It looked like its wings had tentacles. It just glared at her, almost daring her to come closer. It's body was a bright baby blue, but the most intriguing thing about it, was that it was glowing; giving a bright light in the dark cave. It almost looked like a ghost.

Viggo just smiled at her shocked expression, which he asked "Tell me Darien, have you ever seen a Flightmare before?"


"Hiccup, we've been searching all day! And well into the night!" Fishlegs shouted, letting Meatlug hover near Toothless "Both Matt and Wasatch have been missing for two whole days!"

"Keep looking for that ship! They had to have kept going east!" Hiccup shouted, scanning the horizon. With the moon lighting the night, he refused to call the search off.

"Hiccup!" Snotlout shouted, sounding angry and frustrated "Our dragons are exhausted. They need rest or else we'll end up in the ocean!"

"Come on, Hiccup." Tuffnut began to say "We all know they were captured. I mean, there's not much we can do for them right now."

"Let's go recharge our dragons, get a game plan, pack some supplies, and resume searching tomorrow. Ok?" Fishlegs suggested, trying to be logical and helpful.

Hiccup turned to see the twins and Snotlout hovering behind him. Both dragons they were on looked tired and worn out. Reluctantly nodding, he was interrupted before he could say anything.

"Are you kidding me?!" Heather's voice shouted. The entire group turned to see her and Windshear hovering above them. Her eyes were burning with anger. "After all he's done for you guys; after he save you Ruffnut! You're just calling it quits and letting him get taken farther away? With Astrid?!"

"Heather, even if we find him, our dragons are in no way able to fight!" Fishlegs argued. Gesturing to Windshear, he added "Look at your dragon, she's tired too!"

"We've flown a whole day and night before without stopping!" She quickly countered. Turning away from them, she then shouted "If you want to leave, fine! I'm going north east!"

"Heather…" Hiccup replied gently. Letting Toothless hover next to her, he said "Fishlegs is right. We need to regroup, come up with a plan, and get some supplies. Plus check on Stormfly. We're not giving up, we're getting ready for a longer search."

Heather refused to look at him. Staring in the direction she was going to head, she just looked down with a frustrated expression. She knew Hiccup was just as driven as she was in finding him; maybe more so since Astrid was still missing too.

"Hey…listen." Hiccup then suggested "I'll go with you. Let's go south west, and then cut up north back to the Edge. That way we're still looking for them, but heading home to get ready."

Slowly, she nodded. She felt like she was abandoning Matt, but knew that she had no supplies; nor did Windshear have the endurance to make it to one of her camps that she made a few months ago. "Fine. But we'll go low and slow. I don't want to miss anything."

"Wouldn't have it any other way." Hiccup replied, nodding at her suggestion. Turning to the others, he then said "Head back to the Edge. We'll take a detour and meet you there."

"Be careful guys!" Fishlegs called out, letting Meatlug start flying home. The other quickly followed, anxious to get some rest.

"Come on, this way." Heather said aloud, letting Windshear fly south west.

"Heather, we'll find them. Astrid too…" Hiccup assured, letting Toothless glide alongside.

"I should've gone with him…" She whispered loudly, shaking her head "I knew something like this was going to happen! It's just his luck! Agh! Why did I let him go alone! I should've tailed him! This is the second time this week he's been missing!"

"You can't say that!" Hiccup argued "Heather, he was told to come alone. I'm the one that shouldn't have let him go! I knew it was going to be a trap!"

Shaking her head, she replied "But I could've been out of sight! Just as an extra pair of eyes. Or as a life line for him."

"Heather, you don't know what Strogg's like. He probably would have killed Matt if he saw you. Or anyone of us…" Hiccup replied, shaking his head at the thought "The only reason why I wasn't killed when he captured me and Toothless years ago, was because he and his army was stranded on Berk. We were his only way off our island."

Heather just shook her head, not saying anything. Staring at the ocean just under her, with the moonlight reflecting off the ocean, she silently let her frustrations rage inside her. Staring below, something glistened in the water, with the moonlight almost signaling that something was right there.

"Heather. If anyone is to blame, it's me. I let him go. I let him do this when I knew Strogg had other motives…" He whispered, looking away from Heather "I just wanted to get Astrid away from him, that I let Matt try. I was stupid! I knew that Strogg had something up his slee-"

Heather dove straight down, gliding only feet above the water. Hiccup, surprised at the sudden movement, followed "What? Do you see him?"

Heather never answered. Letting Windshear roll upside down, she extended her hand and grabbed something out of the water. Rolling back around, she stared at what she grabbed.

"What is it? What did'ya find?" He asked anxiously, flying alongside her.

Heather looked over at Hiccup, tears forming in her eyes. Not saying a word, she showed Hiccup. In her hands were Matt's goggles, cracked and broken in half. The sight that made his veins ice up, was the visible blood staining the strap.

"No…" He whispered, staring at the goggles.

"Hiccup…you were right…Strogg did kill Matt…" She choked out. Staring at the goggles with tears now clearly visible in the moonlight, she then whispered with a broken heart "He's…gone…"


Well, hope that puts a twist in things. I also understand that some scenes being written were repetitive and redundant. I'll try to work on that with this and future stories. Thanks! Also, in answer to a question I've been getting, I'm not planning on bringing others from Matt's time; though we'll just have to see with the idea's I get when I see the rest of season 4 of RTTE. Unlikely though.

Again, thanks for the support and hope you enjoyed this chapter!