Chapter 20 – Treasured Dream

As they shook hands, gave their long goodbyes and boarded their ships there was no doubt in anyone's mind that this had been one of the most eventful and memorable offering periods there had ever been and one that would no doubt take its place in Viking History. Hiccup however was just glad to finally be going home.

He had shook hands and exchanged farewells with Chiefs, temple staff and their friends all afternoon as they came closer to departure, wishing them all a safe journey or prosperous year. He smiled through it all but he longed for the moment when they too would start out on their way home to Berk. Then he would finally feel free.

However there were three people that he would be sorry to leave. Camicazi and Thuggory were setting out for home themselves and Astrid and Hiccup were making the most of their last few hours together. To Hiccups disappointment though he had been unable to locate Symon, he had not come down to the beach and Hiccup regretted not spending more time seeking out his new friend before leaving the temple complex.

"How long will it take you to get back?" Astrid asked Camicazi as they walked along the beach towards the boats.

Camicazi turned and smiled shyly at Thuggory.

"We're going to stop with the Meatheads for a few days before heading back home. We have wedding plans to make."

Thuggory, who was walking beside Hiccup, gave her a soft smile at this.

"I still can't believe you two are getting married," Astrid said grinning at the pair.

"Neither can I," Camicazi agreed, grinning herself at the thought.

Hiccup felt a sharp pang in his chest again at the mention of weddings but kept his feelings hidden. Camicazi swapped places with Thuggory and moved up beside Hiccup.

"How are you doing?" she asked as she walked beside him. Hiccup seemed a little to pale for her liking.

He smiled at her.

"Fine, the healer said I could take the bandages off in a few days. No doubt Dad and Astrid will want me to wait till Gothi gives all clear but I don't mind. It will just be good to get home."

Camicazi laughed.

"Is this the same Gothi who makes those pep up potions with yak vomit," she said shuddering.

"I remember when I came to visit one year and caught a cold. That stuff was revolting," and she grimaced at the memory.

Hiccup laughed.

"Yep, same one."

They continued to laugh and swap old stories as they walked and didn't notice how far they were falling behind the others. Hiccups bad leg was beginning to cramp with all the walking on the shingle beach and he suggested that they sit down for a rest. Camicazi agreed and they found a suitable boulder to perch on. Hiccup detached his prosthetic and began to massage his leg to relieve the cramp that had settled there.

"Does it hurt a lot?" Camicazi asked curiously as she watched him work. They all knew the story about how he had lost the limb but the way he just got on with things still amazed her.

Hiccup shook his head.

"No, not normally but it depends on the weather and things like that. It can ache when it's cold or wet...or when you're walking on a beach made of shingle," he said smiling as he reattached his prosthetic and flexed his leg to stretch the muscles.

They sat there for a moment in silence, watching as the final items were loaded onto the boats.

"Do you realised that the next time we will see each other will be at my wedding?" she said smiling.

"Not if you come to mine first," Hiccup responded and as soon as the phrase had left his lips he realised with horror what he had said.

With all the talk of weddings his mind had been on his impending question to Astrid and he had spoken without thinking. Camicazi grabbed his arm and turned him around, looking at him in surprise.

"Hiccup...have you?...Are you and Astrid?...she didn't let on...not a word the sly dog," she squealed suddenly in excitement and threw her arms around him, throwing him off balance and nearly causing him to fall backwards from the rock.

"Cami...wait...," he said quickly trying to unwind her arms.

"...No...I haven't...," he continued as he finally managed to push her back.

Camicazi looked at him in confusion.

"Then why say?" She started but Hiccup cut her off.

"...not yet," he added looking at her.

Suddenly Hiccup felt the need to ask her something. It was impulsive and he wasn't sure if he would like the answer but he needed to ask someone and Camicazi was probably the best person to give him an honest answer.

"Cami can I ask you something?" he said, looking at her and feeling his courage waver. What if her answer wasn't the one he hoped for?

"Of course you can," she said, noticing his nervousness and wondering with curiosity where this was going.

Hiccup took a deep breath to steady his nerves.

"You know Astrid as well as anyone. If...If I asked her to marry me...do you think she would accept?...I mean I'm nothing special and she deserves better but...I love her," he looked down at the shingle and kicked at it as he waited for his friends response.

"How can you even think to ask such a thing Hiccup," Camicazi said sternly as she took his shoulders and turned him to look at her.

Hiccup dropped his eyes to the ground again and felt a terrible sinking sensation in his chest.

"I...I know I should never...I'm not good enough for her...she deserves better. I...," but he was stopped by Camicazi shaking his shoulders.

"Hiccup stop it, that's not what I meant. How can you even think that Astrid wouldn't accept you? She loves you. In fact you're lucky she hasn't taken her axe to you for taking so long."

Hiccup began to grin as Camicazi's words begun to sink in. Astrid wanted him to ask her.

"Do you really think she will say yes?" He asked, wanting it confirmed again. Just to make sure he hadn't misheard the first time.

Camicazi smiled gently.

"Yes Hiccup I'm sure of it. I promise you, if you ask her she will say yes."

His grin widened at the confirmation.

"What took you so long? I was certain you would have asked her by now and I know Astrid was convinced that you had been about to ask her when you two disappeared down to the lake on your second morning here," Camicazi said and watched as the grin left Hiccups face.

He sighed.

"I was. I..It was impulsive, I...I hadn't asked our parents' permission yet or even had a ring to give her, but she was so upset that morning that I just didn't care, I wanted to give her what she wanted and make her feel better."

Camicazi looked guilty.

"That was my fault. I knew that she had been waiting for you to ask her but I was so excited to tell her all my news about Thug that I didn't think about how it would affect her."

Hiccup nodded.

"That's Ok. Trouble is I didn't get a chance to finish what I started to say. My father decided to have a fight with Alvin and Dagur in the temple courtyard. Then the news came that we had lost the whale and the offerings. Events just snowballed after that."

"You've had time to ask her since though. Why wait?" Camicazi asked.

Hiccup bowed his head in shame.

"I guess...I guess I wasn't really ready. I started to let my doubts and fears take over. After everything that's happened though I finally realise how much she means to me. How much I love her. Now I'm desperate to ask her but I'm also determined to do it right this time, I owe her that much after making her wait so long. I...I'm going to ask my father for permission to marry when we get back to Berk. I just hope he approves."

Camicazi hugged him then.

"I'm glad Hiccup and I know he will approve. You're an idiot for ever doubting yourself or her."

He nodded and returned the hug.

"Yeah, I realise that now."

Camicazi pulled back and looked out at the waves crashing against the shore.

"You know I do know how you feel. I didn't realise how much Thug meant to me until he asked me to marry him. We were just friends before that. It was so gradual I don't think either of us realised what was happening. We would play and spar together when our parents visited each other and I would be sad when they left. Then I started to miss him really badly and when I heard they were coming again I would sit and wait on the docks for them to arrive. I'd stay there for hours, straining to get the first glimpse of their ships approaching, excitement bubbling within when I did. Our friendship started to grow into something new. I couldn't bear to be separated from him. That day he sailed on his own, without announcing his visit, took me to our special cave and asked me to marry him was the happiest day of my life," she said as he looked out at the sea, absently playing with the oath band on her finger as she remembered the moment.

Hiccup nodded his understanding. It had been the same for Astrid and him although Hiccup knew his feels had been there longer then hers. He had loved her from a young age but it had all been just a childhood dream back then. They also had they own special place, the cove. It was where he had first bonded with Toothless and where he had first declared his love for her and asked her to be his girlfriend. They had spent many a special and happy moment there since and he realised that it was also where he would ask her to marry him.

"Did he ask your mothers permission beforehand?"

Camicazi nodded.

"Yeah it seems she and Thugs father had many discussions and disagreements about it when Thug first told his father what he wanted to do. It's complicated for us being both heirs to our tribes. It took a while to convince her but she finally gave her permission."

Hiccup smiled.

"I'm glad it worked out for you Cami."

She returned the smile and nodded. They both knew that as heirs to their tribe's throne they could easily be married off for the sake of tribal politics or peace. To be able to choose as she and Thuggory had done was a rare blessing and one that Hiccup hopped his father would also allow him.

"I'll never forget that day Hiccup, I'm the happiest I have ever been since and I know that Astrid will be the same when you ask her," Camicazi said now standing and holding out her hand to help him to his feet.

Hiccup smiled as he took it.

"Thanks Cami," he said as together they began to walk towards the boats and to where the others waited.

Astrid and Thuggory had already reached the boats by the time Camicazi and Hiccup caught up. Hiccup slipped his hand into Astrid's and gave her a quick kiss on the cheek as he moved up beside her.

"What was that for?" she asked as she turned to him. Pleased but a little surprised at his boldness.

Hiccup shrugged.

"Do I have to have a reason?" He said as he kissed her on the lips this time, smiling as he did so.

"No, you can do that any time you like," she laughed and stroked his hair fondly.

From the corner of his eye Hiccup noticed Camicazi whisper in Thuggory's ear and knew exactly what Camicazi had said when he gave Hiccup a big grin and winked. Hiccup was glad that Astrid had her back to them otherwise he would have had some awkward explaining to do.

Trying to avoid anymore giveaways to his plan Hiccup looked over towards his father who was deep in conversation with Mogadon, Bertha and several other Chiefs. Their conversation came to a close and Stoick clasped the hand of each Chief in turn before turning back to the group.

"Well that's a relief," he said as he approached them.

"What's a relief Dad?"

"You know I was worried about the food shortage when we got back to Berk?"

Hiccup nodded. His father had tried to make light if it but the fact that their winter stocks had been destroyed meant that the tribe had to start from scratch. No doubt they had been trying their best to rebuild stocks but even with their best hunters and fishermen on the case they would have struggled to find enough food to supply the village this late in the year. It had taken over six months to acquire enough food in the first place. Without food it was going to be a long and miserable winter.

"Well we don't have to worry anymore. Every tribe has promised to donate some of their own stocks to us to help us through the winter. The first shipments should arrive within the next couple of weeks and to tie us over till then they have given us any spare stocks they brought with them. That, along with what the temple has donated, will see us through the next few months with ease. No one will be going hungry this winter."

He smiled broadly as he gave out the good news and placed a hand on Hiccups shoulder.

"And it's all thanks to you son," he added still beaming.

Hiccup rubbed the back of his neck with his free hand in embarrassment at his father's praise, the other was still grasped firmly in Astrid's and he had no intention of remove it. She gave it a squeeze and nudged against him, smiling at his discomfort yet bursting herself with pride at his achievements.

"Anyway were all about done here, it's time to set off for home," Stoick said clapping his hands together loudly in a businesslike manner and turning to signal to the men around the boats to start pushing off from the beach. In addition to the promised food stocks each of the tribes had also leant the Hooligans a few of their own men to help sail the now repaired boats back to Berk.

At this welcome announcement Hiccup and Astrid started to exchange their final goodbyes.

"Make sure you let me know the date for the wedding as soon as you settle on one," Astrid insisted as she embraced Camicazi.

Camicazi smiled and opened her mouth to answer but something in her eye alerted Hiccup and he suddenly realised that she was about to let something slip. He shook his head violently at her but it was Thuggory who saved the day when he quickly swapped places with Camicazi and gave Astrid his own hug.

"We will, I promise you," he said blocking Astrid's view of Camicazi. Camicazi rolled her eyes and smiled before Hiccup quickly grabbed her hand and moved her away before she could do any damage.

"Cami, stop it," he whispered forcefully in her ear as he hugged her. Camicazi chuckled.

"Sorry Hiccup, I'm just so excited for you both. I never was good at keeping secrets," she apologised as she returned his hug. Then she whispered in his ear.

"Good luck and make sure you send us an invite."

As they pulled apart Hiccup gave her a shy smile.

"We will and thanks Cami."

They parted company and moved towards the boarding rope, waving as they did so. Astrid was first to reach the rail and threw down another rope with a loop in the end for Hiccup. He still wasn't strong enough to pull himself up as normal so he would have to be pulled aboard. He had just slotted his right foot into the loop and was about to shout up that he was ready when a yellow robed figure came running across the beach. Hiccup gave a wide smile and took his foot from the loop.

"Hiccup, thank the Gods I caught you before you left," Symon said as he reached him. Slowing to a walk and trying to catch his breath.

Hiccup smiled and grasped his hand warmly in greeting.

"So am I. I tried to find you earlier but the Healer said you were catching up on your studies."

Symon nodded.

"Yeah, I got a bit behind with all the excitement over the last few weeks and the Elder insisted that I started to catch up."

"Thank you Symon for everything you did for me," Hiccup said earnestly.

Symon nodded and smiled.

"You're welcome Hiccup. I'm just glad it worked out alright in the end. Oh, incidentally I wanted to give these back to you," and he reached inside his robes to draw out two wads of folded parchment. Hiccup knew instantly what they were. He had forgotten all about them.

Symon handed Hiccup the letters, one thicker then the other and Hiccup remembered what it contained.

"Thank you Symon," he said as he took the letters from him and placed them into the satchel he was carrying over his shoulder.

When he withdrew his hand he held a large earthen jar. He handed it to Symon.

"What's this?" Symon asked looking closely at the jar.

"Well seeing as you used most the Night Fury saliva I gave you to treat me I thought I better refill it. Don't drop it though, it took a while to convince Toothless to fill such a big jar I don't think he would be very happy if I asked him to do it again."

A loud huffing noise came from above and they both looked up to see said Night Fury eyeing them and the jar with disdain.

"See what I mean," Hiccup laughed.

Toothless huffed again and disappeared back over the rail. He was replaced by Gobber.

"What's taking you so long lad? We need to get going this side of Snoggletog you know," he shouted, waving his hammer prosthetic in frustration as he glared down at the two boys.

"I have to go," Hiccup said, genuinely upset to have to leave his new friend so quickly.

"Will you be coming back?" Symon asked hopefully.

Hiccup nodded. Then he thought of something.

"Hey, do you have Terrible Terrors on the island?" he asked, suddenly excited.

"Yeah we do," Symon confirmed, confused as to why Hiccup would ask such a question.

"Did the other riders show you how to tame a dragon?" Hiccup continued, his excitement growing.

Symon nodded.

"I spent quite a bit of time with Fishlegs. He showed me what to do," Symon answered still unsure as to what Hiccup was getting at.

"Great. Well on Berk we use something called Airmail. Terrible Terrors are really good at homing so we use them to send messages to each other."

Symon's eyes lit up as he realised what Hiccup was suggesting.

"So we can send each other letters by dragon?" He said his own voice now mirroring Hiccups excitement.

Hiccup nodded.

"Yep that's the idea. Look here's what you need to do. Gather up and train a handful of Terrors. Then send them to Berk with Trader Johan next time he visits. I'll do the same. Then all we need to do is attach a letter and the Terror will fly home to deliver it."

Symon nodded his understanding. He wasn't sure what the Elder would think about having Terrible Terrors flying around the temple but he didn't care, it would be good to keep in touch with Hiccup. With their plans set they clasped hands warmly one last time before Hiccup responded to the now increasingly insistent shouts from above for him to board.

He turned and waved one last time as he slipped his right foot into the loop once again. With a quick shout that he was ready he was lifted up into the air. Once he was safely on deck the sailors lowered long poles to the beach and began to push the boat free. As they drifted back to open water Hiccup continued to wave at the now retreating figure of Symon. Something then struck him. He had made a valuable friendship with Symon. If he was to be the future leader of his tribe then Symon was surely the future leader of the Temple and they would no doubt see each other many times over the next few years. In fact Hiccup suspected that their lives were perhaps linked in some way. Was this the work of the gods again in his life? He pushed the thought aside. So what if it was, he had already decided that he would make his own way and he was pleased to have met Symon.

As he turned away from the rail he smiled. He was free. He was finally on his way home. This had to have been his greatest and most dangerous adventure to date he thought as he moved across the deck. He looked up and saw Astrid. Then again maybe that was still to come.

The journey back to Berk took the anticipated three days but this time there were no storms or sea fog to delay them, the seas remained calm and the sky clear and blue.

Hiccup looked up as the other dragon riders soared overhead. They were escorting the ships back to Berk and Hiccup longed to be up there with them but even he realised that he needed another day or so before he was fit enough to fly. Toothless hadn't been grounded though. With the standard peddle still fitted to his tail control Astrid had taken on the task of flying with him. No doubt Toothless still preferred flying with Hiccup, who was far more flamboyant and risky in his flying but at least Astrid was keeping him exercised, no one wanted a frustrated Night Fury running around deck. Hiccup looked up as a dark shadow passed overhead, followed by Toothless's distinctive roar. Hiccup smiled and waved as Astrid waved down at him before soared away again.

When they were out of sight Hiccup turned back to the task he had set himself. Before they docked he wanted to speak to his father about Astrid. He looked around and saw him standing at the bow watching as the boat cut though the water no doubt keeping a look out for the first sign of Berk on the horizon. Hiccup approached and coughed to announce his presence, his father seemed deep in his thoughts and Hiccup didn't want to startle him. Stoick looked round and smiled at his son before gesturing for him to join him.

"Well son were nearly home. It's been one hell of a journey though," Stoick said seriously as Hiccup joined him.

"Yeah, it's been that all right," Hiccup agreed as he looked out at the familiar outline of the sea stacks in the distance.

They were silent for a moment and Hiccup took the chance to gather his courage to ask his father about Astrid but his father spoke before he could broach the question.

"You know there was a time Hiccup when I didn't think you would be coming home at all. I thought I was going to lose you for good this time," he said bowing his head a little.

Hiccup took a deep breath.

"Yeah me to Dad, I was scared. I came so close to...I really thought I was going to die," he confessed his eyes joining his father's on the deck below his feet. He looked up at the feeling of a heavy hand resting on his shoulder.

"But you didn't Hiccup. You showed Alvin, Dagur, the whole Archipelago what true bravery and courage were. You showed them that Berk was strong that we would not bow down to threats and would rise to defend ourselves. You did that son and I need you to understand just how proud this tribe and I am, of you. People will remember what you did, and believe me son when I say that this tribe will never forget what you were prepared to do for us," Stoick said as his gaze met his sons.

"From the moment you were a babe in arms Hiccup I knew that you would be different, like you're mother, you have a thirst for learning and discovery that I didn't understand at first. It just didn't seem right that a Viking should act or think that way you do and I know I shunned you because of it, never paid attention to what you were trying to say or show me."

He gave a heavy sigh.

"It took you nearly dying, saving us from our own folly that day on Dragon Island for me to recognise just how special and important you are. How much I love you."

Stoick placed both hands on Hiccups shoulders and squeezing them in reassurance.

"You don't have to keep doing it though son. You have proved yourself to us, to me a hundred times over since. You don't have to keep putting yourself in harms way," and he pulled Hiccup into a tight embrace, his eyes glittering fiercely with pride and love as he did so.

Thoughts of Astrid were pushed temporarily aside as Hiccup listened to his father's confession and declaration of love for him, his heart swelling with emotion as he returned the embrace. There had been a time when he thought his father would disown him for good, ashamed and embarrassed of his son's failure to be the Viking and heir that everyone wanted him to be. It had taken years but finally Hiccup had found his place and proved himself. He had always known that his father loved him but to hear him say it so open and honestly brought a lump to his throat and tears to his eyes.

"I know Dad but it's not as though I do it on purpose. Trouble just seems to find me."

Stoick sighed again and lowered his arms. He turned to look back out at sea.

"Aye, I suppose that's true," he said realising that no matter how hard he tried to protect him, Hiccup would always be the first to throw himself into the fire to save those he loved or cared for, always be willing to make the ultimate sacrifice. It was who he was and Stoick's pride for his son swelled once again. Hiccup was as strong, brave, loyal and courageous as any of them and more so, a true Viking. So what if he did it a differently way to everyone else, that was just who Hiccup was and Stoick realised that he wouldn't have it any other way.

He turned to Hiccup with a board smile.

"I'll settle for a few weeks of peace then. Can you keep yourself out of trouble for that long at least?"

Hiccup grinned and rubbed the back of his neck.

"You once told me to be careful about making promises you can't keep," he reminded his father and Looked up as the black form of Toothless flew overhead and landed on the deck behind them.

Stoick laughed as he recalled the conversation.

"...and it depends what you mean by 'trouble'," Hiccup continued as he watched Astrid dismount.

Stoick wiping the mirth from his eyes and followed his son's gaze noting his sudden nervousness.

"Dad, I need to ask you something," Hiccup said quietly, his voice wavering a little.

"What is it son."

"Before all this happened...we talked about me...well me getting married," Hiccup said taking a deep breath to calm his nerves.

"If...if I told you...told you that I was ready to ask for Astrid's hand, what would you say?"

Hiccup looked down at his feet and scuffed his prosthetic along the deck, suddenly afraid of his father's reaction.

At hearing this Stoick turned Hiccup round to look at him, his eyes serious and his face fixed and unreadable.

Hiccup swallowed, his throat suddenly dry, as he met his fathers gaze and waited for his answer. His father had to know how he felt about her. He had told him as such only a few weeks before, told him that he had nearly asked her to marry him that day by the lake. He had seemed to approve of Hiccups choice back then...What if he had changed his mind?

As the long seconds ticked by Hiccup suddenly became afraid. If his father refused the match he didn't know what he would do. He had to have his father's permission. Otherwise it would be all over between him and Astrid.

"I'd say it was about time," Stoick said finally and his face split into a wide grin.

Hiccup let out an explosive breath.

"Oh gods...for a moment there I thought you were going to refuse," Hiccup said sagging in relief.

"No son you have my permission to ask her. I know how much you love the girl and I know how much she loves you. You've left that lass waiting long enough. You are very lucky Hiccup to find someone who cares for you as she does, someone that you match and love so well. You remind me of how your mother and I once were."

Hiccup was surprised to see a moist glint to his father's eyes and Stoick blinked rapidly to clear what Hiccup suspected were tears at the memory of his mother. Hiccup began to move away and leave his father alone with his thoughts when his father spoke again.

"I prayed to her to help you, when I thought I was going to loose you. I...I prayed for her to help you...to protect you..." he said trailing off.

Hiccup looked at his father in shock as he heard this. His father had prayed to the Gods for him to be spared...asked his mother to protect him. Hiccups eyes widened and he suddenly understood. It had seemed like a dream, voices and feelings brought on by the effects of the drug he had taken but what if...what if it hadn't been a dream after all?

"She did," he said quietly and his father turned to him with wide eyes.

"What!"

"She did come to me. At least I think it was her. When...when I was surrounded by the flames in the offering pyre...I thought...I thought I heard someone speak to me. It told me to hold on...that help was coming. I was pretty out of it at the time. They gave me a drug...to ease the pain...so...I might have been mistaken."

Stoick understood. The healer had told him about the drug, something called the 'draught of peace'. His didn't need an explanation to understand its purpose but Hiccup wasn't done.

"Then, after Toothless pulled me free something else happened. Astrid told me I stopped breathing. I just remember falling through a great blackness. There was a light above me but I couldn't reach it, it was getting further and further away...I think...I think I was dying. Something stopped me from falling though, it wrapped around me and lifted me back up to the light, it spoke to me...told me I was brave, that it was proud of me but that it wasn't my time to go yet...Dad...I think it was mom...I think she saved me."

Hiccup opened his eyes, he hadn't even realised that he had closed them, and looked at his father. Stoick's face was wet with silent tears as he looked at his son, realising that if not for his mother, he would have lost him. She had heard him, she had answered his prays. He came forward and wrapped his large arms once more around Hiccup.

"I think your right," he said softly.

They pulled apart after a while. Neither saying more, they didn't need to. Hiccup looked over to where Astrid was playing with Toothless.

"Do you think she would approve of my choice?" Hiccup asked, watching the girl who had stolen his heart play with his best friend.

Stoick smiled.

"I know she does. As much as I do," and he ruffled Hiccups hair affectionately in a way he hadn't done since Hiccup was little.

"Now make sure you do a proper job and ask her father's permission as soon as we dock, then you can ask the lass," he said still smiling and pushed Hiccup forward towards the pair.

Hiccup turned and smiled at him before joining them. Stoick watched them play happily together for a few moments before turning back to look out to sea.

"We didn't do too badly in the end did we Val," he said smiling.

"Thank you for bringing him back to me," he whispered as he looked up towards Valhalla and sighed happily as he felt the warm breeze on his face, his wife's gently touch. He smiled as his thoughts drifted back to happy times and happy memories, watching as the boat drew closer to home and a well deserved rest.

Their initial arrival on Berk was met with seas of sad faces and mourning. The long delay in their chief's return had led them to believe the worse but on seeing Hiccup beside his father the mood instantly changed. To have Hiccup back with them, alive and well was something to celebrate and they did so in true Berk style.

Plans for a huge feast to mark the end of the 'Time of Offering' and to celebrate Hiccups safe return began in earnest. Hiccup had planned to seek out Astrid's father the moment he set foot on Berk but he was quickly despatched to Gothi's hut for a check up, much to his ignored protests. She checked his burns and applied fresh salve to his wounds, nodding that she was pleased with his progress. Hiccup had hoped that would be the end of it but before he could leave she fed him some revolting potion to help build up his strength. It took all his willpower to keep it down as his stomach churned in protest. He didn't want to even think about what it might have contained. Astrid of course found this all very amusing.

"It can't have been that bad," she said still laughing as he retched again.

"You try it then," he managed to say before clapping a hand across is mouth and groaning.

However once his stomach had settled he did have to admit that he felt a lot better.

After the visit to Gothi's Hiccups plans to talk to Astrid's father alone were scuppered. Astrid wouldn't leave his side and Hiccup tried all day to convince her that he was fine, that she really needn't stay with him but she would have none of it. They were outside the Great hall watching tables and chairs being carried in when he finally caught his father's attention. He looked desperately at Astrid and then across at her father hoping that he would understand his dilemma. Thankfully he did.

"Astrid I need your help counting the mead barrels," Stoick said briskly as he came over to the pair.

Astrid opened her mouth to protest but Hiccup got in there quickly.

"Go on I'll be fine," he encouraged.

She looked unsure for a moment but then nodded.

"Don't go anywhere," she said firmly as she looked at him.

"Wouldn't dream of it," he said smiling and pushed her towards his father.

He watched as they moved away and let out a loud sigh of relief, then he walked across the plaza towards her father who was carrying two large barrels across his shoulders. As he drew closer he felt his nerves bubble to the surface again.

"Sir...may..may I disturb you for a moment?" He asked tentatively.

Astrid's father set the two barrels to the ground and dusted his hands off.

"Of course Lad, what can I do for you?"

"Sir...I...would like to ask...that is I want to tell you," Hiccup mumbled, his nervousness raised to a point where he thought he might collapse. Astrid's father raised a curious eyebrow at the young man's behaviour.

Hiccup took a deep breath to steady himself.

"Sir...I've loved your daughter for a long time. I want you to know that I would protect her with my life, defend her, honour her and all that she is...," he said his voice now steady.

"I...I would like to ask your permission to seek her hand in marriage."

He had barely finished his request when Astrid's father dived forward and grabbed him in a crushing bear hug, lifting him clean off his feet.

"Its about damn time lad," he cried loudly, grinning and spinning Hiccup round like a rag doll before dropping him back to his feet.

Hiccup winced and gingerly nursed his ribs but despite this he seemed unable to wipe the grin off his face.

"If she'll have you lad she's yours," he said happily clasping Hiccups hand warmly.

"Thank you sir," he said relief evident in his voice.

'Two down, one to go,' he thought and the last one may well be the hardest.

By the time evening came the festivities were already well underway and Hiccup was surprised by just how fast things had come together, even by Berk standards. The mead was following and already there came the sound of loud singing from the great hall. As Hiccup entered the hall he could see the source plain enough. It looked very much like Gobber was trying to teach some of their guests the words to his favourite song, the one about the mace and the wife with the ugly face. Hiccup rolled his eyes and smiled.

He made his way across the hall, trying to avoid people as they danced and whirled around the floor with joyous laughter, shaking offered hands and smiling as people clapped him on the shoulder and told him how glad they were he was back. He was feeling happy to be home when he finally reached his target and hoped he would be happier still if the next stage of his plan worked out.

"Come with me," he said quietly as he leaned over Astrid's shoulders and whispered in her ear.

Astrid turned to look at him in surprise from where she had been watching the twins having a rather even arm wrestling match.

"Where are we going?" she asked as he slipped his hand in hers and began to gently pull.

"It's a surprise," he said grinning at her mysteriously.

Her brow creased with curiosity as she stood and allowed him to and led her back through the dancing people and towards the door.

When they reached it he opened it and gestured for her to go first with a dramatic sweep of his arm and a small bow. She did so, intrigued as to what the surprise was. Before Hiccup followed her he looked back and saw his father watching him. He nodded to him. Understanding what he was about to do his father raised his mug in encouragement and approval. Hiccup gave a shy smile and then followed Astrid outside.

"Stoick have you seen Hiccup?" Gobber asked as he placed two full mugs on the table.

"Hiccups busy," Stoick said, taking a mug and smiling.

Outside the air was much cooler then it had been in the hall but not unpleasant. Astrid turned to smile at Hiccup.

"So, what's this all about?" she asked her curiosity growing by the minute.

Hiccup smiled and hoped that she wouldn't notice how nervous he must look. He indicated to where the sun was starting to set.

"I though you might want to go for a flight. You know how Toothless loves flying at this time of day," he said hopefully and pointed to where Toothless sat waiting.

Astrid looked at him a little concerned when she noticed that he had re-fitted the adapted peddle for his prosthetic.

"Are you sure your feeling up to it?" She asked.

Hiccup nodded and bounced on the ball of his foot and tip of his prosthetic nervously.

"Yeah I'm sure. Come on Astrid I'm desperate to get back into the air. Come with me," he cringed at the desperate note in his voice. He was starting to worry she would say no which would scupper all of his plans right there.

Astrid noticed his desperate tone but she put it down to his want to get back flying again.

"Well if you're sure," she said and took his hands in her own. She leaned forward to peck him on the cheek.

"Then yes of course I'll come."

Hiccup let out a silent breath of relief, stage one complete.

Before long they were both in the air and Hiccup was exhilarated to be back flying again. He took Toothless up above the clouds and smiled as Astrid wrapped her arms around his middle and pulled him close to her, laying her face against his shoulder and sighing in contentment. It was just like the first time they had flown together and Hiccups heart soared. As the sun finally set Hiccup steered Toothless towards the cove.

As they landed and climbed down Hiccup noticed that Astrid was shivering and he berated himself for letting her get so cold. He quickly rummaged in his satchel at Toothless side and pulled out the cloak he had stuffed in there earlier. He quickly wrapped his arms around her and pulled the cloak over her shoulders.

"Sorry, I didn't think," he said ashamed. She moved and Hiccup flinched expecting the usual punch but instead she leaned into him and smiled.

"Better warm me up then," she said and he wrapped his arms tightly around her to do just that.

"Come on lets make a fire," and pulled her over to sit on a log. He then set about gathering sticks for the fire.

Once the fire was set Hiccup turned to Toothless who obliged him in lighting it with a short plasma blast. His work done Toothless then moved over to his favourite sleeping spot and heated the ground before curling up.

Hiccup watched and was smiling when he turned back to the fire and Astrid but what he saw made him freeze. She was holding two folded pieces of parchment, turning them over to note the names written there.

"What are these?" she asked noticing that one was addressed to herself, the other to Hiccups father.

"Oh nothing," he said making to grab them from her, he had forgotten they were in his bag and must have fallen out when he pulled the cloak free.

His actions however sparked Astrid's curiosity and she quickly lifted them out of his reach.

"No you don't, not till you tell me what they are," she said playfully.

Hiccups eyes narrowed at the challenge and he dived at her but she spun away.

"Come on Astrid, their nothing really, give them back," Hiccup pleaded.

Astrid just smiled.

"Make me," she said and laughed as Hiccup sprung to his feet and grabbed her round the middle.

He spun her round and then dug his fingers into her side. Very few people knew that Astrid was ticklish. She squirmed, her laughter growing as he attacked but she retaliated and soon Hiccup found himself on the floor trying desperately to curl into a ball to protect himself from her fingers. Yes Astrid was ticklish but not as much as Hiccup.

"Do you give up," Astrid said as she went once again for his knees. They were by far his most sensitive spot.

"Yes...gods yes...I give up," he said breathlessly.

Astrid mercifully withdrew and he cautiously began to uncurl, hoping that the assault was over. He never won those types of fights.

"You never play fair," he complained as he sat up grinning but the grin fell from his face when he saw Astrid break the seal on the letter that had been addressed to her.

"Astrid...please...don't," he pleaded, suddenly serious and fearful.

Astrid looked at him.

"I won, I should at least get to see what my prize is," she said and turned back to the fire to get better light with which to read.

Hiccups world collapsed at that point. He had never meant for anyone to read those letters whilst he was still alive. He had written them when he had been at his lowest, when he had been convinced that he had only a few more hours to live. There were things written there that he knew he would never have the courage to say to her himself, his heart was there is her hand, in charcoal and parchment.

Astrid was silent as she read and Hiccup's fear grew. He had never meant to be around to see her reaction. Now he would and it terrified him. It was then that he noticed what Astrid had not in her haste to open the letter. The maiden band she had given him lay on the ground between them and Hiccup pushed himself to his knees and picked it up. He held it gently in his hands and a lump came to his throat as he looked up at Astrid's silent form. Then he lowered his gaze to the floor and awaited his fate.

As Astrid broke the seal on the letter she had felt extremely smug at winning it from Hiccup but as she read that feeling faded. After only a few lines she realised what she was reading and she placed a shaking hand to her mouth, her eyes pricking with tears.

Astrid,

If you are reading this letter then I am no longer with you. There is so much I wanted to say to you so much that I wanted us to do together but fate has chosen another path for me, one that takes me away from you and down a road that is both frightening and lonely. Nevertheless it is one I must take alone. I know that this letter is a poor substitute for the things I wanted to say to you but it is all I have left and I will do my best.

I first want to tell you, remind you that although I was forced into this situation I chose my path. I do not regret what my choices have brought about and I am truly honoured to give my life for my tribe, to keep them safe. I need you to understand however that I did not just do this for them, I did it for you. I want to leave this world knowing that you are safe that I have been able, in whatever small part, to protect you and I would willing do so over and over again if the gods allow.

Although I must leave you I want you to know that I have loved you for longer than I can remember. Right from the moment we played as children I watched you from the sidelines. Watched as you grew as a warrior and a woman, you owned my heart from then even if you never realised it. You see I had a dream, one that I treasured, a dream that kept me warm on cold days, a dream that kept me going on days when I felt low or outcast. That dream was that one day you would notice me and that we would be joined forever in love and in marriage. Back then it was just a dream but it came closer to reality when you gave me the greatest gift you could ever bestow, when you consented to be my girlfriend.

I remember that day in the cove so well and I have held that memory in my heart ever since but I have a confession. You extended your hand to me when you said yes and I grasped it tightly, never wanting to let go. I was and have been the happiest I have ever been since that day but I also know that I have been selfish. Selfish because I wanted to keep you for myself, never wanting to wake from my dream, knowing you deserved someone so much more worthy of you. You are more beautifying then the goddess Freyja and fiercer then Thor himself. You are also gentle and kind and I cherish everything about you but I am not a normal Viking, neither in act or appearance and I worried that I could never give you what you deserved. Fearing each day that you would eventually see me for what I really was and have regrets I delayed and lingered in taking the next step. The step that would make a dream, become a reality. I know now that I have been a fool that I have failed to see and hear what you have been showing me, telling me from the very beginning. When you gave me your maiden band I finally realised and I am sorry that my realisation has come too late. I have now left this world and I have no regrets bar one. That is I was unable to full fill my deepest wish and ask you to be my wife.

I am sorry that I left it so late, sorry that I have dishonoured both your love and mine by denying what was plain before me. Please, if you can find it in your heart, forgive me. I want you to know how much I love you and it is your love that has given me the strength to face what awaits me. When you think back on me, think fondly and of the happy times we had together. Do not grieve, do not blame yourself. This was my choice. I chose this path and am happy that I have been able to keep our people and you safe.

I wish I could keep writing, keep telling you over and over how much I love you, how much you mean to me but my time is now short. They will come for me soon but before I go I wish to return to you something that belongs to you, something that I have no right to keep where I am going. I have enclosed your maiden band with this letter not because I reject what you pledged to me that day on the beach but because I want you to have the opportunity to choose another. I kept it close from the moment you gave it to me and dearly wish I could take it with me on my final journey but I don't have that right. It is yours and you must be free to move on. Promise me that you will.

Astrid look after yourself, live now for us both and know that I will be with you always. If you are able please help my father and Toothless come to terms with what has taken place. I've always know that you were the strongest of us and I know that you will use that strength to survive. Remember that I love you and always will.

I am yours forever, in this life and the next.

Hiccup

Hiccup watched as Astrid lowered her shaking arm, still clutching the letter, but she did not turn around to look at him.

"A...Astrid...please say something," he said in almost a whisper, despair rising in his chest as he watched her shoulders begin to shake.

He lowered his head and gripped the leather band in his hand tighter.

"Gods...I...I'm sorry Astrid...I never intended you..." but his voice failed as she turned towards him.

Astrid's face was streaked with tears and her shoulders shook from suppressed sobs, her hand still clasped over her mouth in shock. She staggered forwards and fell to her knees in front of him. The letter gripped tightly in her hand. The silence was long and heavy between then and Hiccup felt tears coming to eyes.

"P...please I'm Sorry I should never...I," but Astrid placed a finger gently against his lips to silence him.

"Y...you wrote this for me," she said her voice choked.

He nodded and bowed his head unable to meet her eyes anymore. Her eyes were drawn to his hand and the familiar leather he held there. Hiccup saw her look and he held it out to her.

"I...if you want to t...take it back. I'll understand," he said, his heart breaking as he said those words and his hands began to shake.

Astrid reached out towards the offered band and to Hiccup time seemed to slow. He lowered his head in despair, wanting the ground to swallow him up and save him from the terrible moment when the soft leather would leave his hand for good and she would reclaimed what was hers. She would be free to choose a more worthy partner than him but he knew that he could never love another. However, instead of the lose he feared he felt her hands on his and then the gentle pressure as she closed his fingers back over the band.

"I told you I was yours Hiccup and I always will be. Whatever happens, remember," she said her voice thick with emotion and with that she felt Hiccups hands clasp over her own, a desperate grip, one of longing and need. She looked up and their eyes met.

"Then I have something to give you in return," he said his voice shaking with emotion and he reached into his tunic to withdrawn a small, beautifully decorated box.

"Astrid, I'm sorry I took so long. I'm sorry that my delay almost cost us the chance but I finally think its time I asked you something."

He opened the box with shaking hands and she gasped at the contents, her hand springing to her mouth again in surprise.

Nestled on a bed of fine white cloth within the little pearly box was the most beautiful ring she had ever seen. The fire light danced across its surface showing its intricate design, etched with swirls and runes and inlaid with what looked like small flecks of dragon scales.

It was the most beautiful thing she had ever seen and she tore her eyes away reluctantly to meet Hiccups.

"Astrid I'm nothing special, I'm not the great messenger of the gods or great chief that everyone think me to be but I'm yours, completely and forever if you will have me," and with that he withdrew the ring from the box and held it before him.

"Astrid Hofferson...will...will you marry me," he asked with deep longing and looked at her.

Astrid eyes were streaming with tears, overloaded by the emotion, the confessions of love she had just read and the fact that one of the bravest Vikings that there had been since the days of old was nervously declaring himself to be unworthy of her but pledging her his heart.

She placed both hands on his face and looked at him deeply taking in the deep love that she could see in his eyes, the love he bore for her. She was one of the luckiest Vikings alive and she knew it.

"Yes," she breathed as she brought her face closer to his so that their foreheads touched.

"Gods, yes Hiccup I will marry you," and before she knew it their lips had met.

The passionate kiss they shared was like nothing they had experienced before. It was intense and conveyed all their longing, need and love for each other. He wrapped his arms tightly around her as he squeezed her closed to him. Their pounding heart beats becoming one as they clung to each other their hands ghosting over each others in a passionate dance. They had never experienced anything like it before and let themselves be taken along the road that love showed them. It was a long time before they pulled apart both breathing heavily. Hiccup drew Astrid's left hand before him and gently placed the ring where it belonged, no longer just a simple ring but a ring that signified the oath of bonding that they had declared to each other. If Hiccup could have his way it would be a ring of marriage before the week was out.

He held her hand tightly in his own as he looked at the ring that now sat there and then looked up to meet her eyes.

"Thank you for completing my dream," he said and smiled gently.

"Thank you," he repeated as he gripped her hand tighter in his own, bringing it closer to his chest, closer to his heart.

"It wasn't just your dream," she said as she embraced him more gently, then before he could realise what she was doing she punched him on the arm.

"Hey..what was that for?" he said indignantly.

"For taking so long," she whispered, pulling him back to her and kissing him once again.

"Fair enough, I guess I deserved that one," he said grinning as they broke apart.

Hiccup lay down beside the fire, using the log as pillow then pulled her down beside him. She lay her head on his chest and snuggled into his side as he wrapped his arms around her.

"Do you have any idea how happy I am right now, how much I love you," he said softly as he kissed her hair.

She sighed in contentment.

"You know I was beginning to worry you would never ask me," Astrid confessed as she lifted her head a little to look up at him.

Hiccups eyes became down cast.

"I know, I wanted you to have the chance to change your mind, I wanted you..."

But he couldn't finish because she placed a gently finger over his lips again.

"You did and that's what matters," she said smiling.

"You're such an idiot, noble but still an idiot to ever doubt yourself. I love you Hiccup and I've only ever loved you. That's why I gave you my maiden band. It was yours from the moment you asked me to be your girlfriend. I thought you knew that."

"I should have realised. I'm sorry for being such a fool," he said as he turned onto his side to face her, pulling her close and burying his face in her hair.

"Thank you for being patient with me."

She sighed again in contentment.

"Hiccup from now on we do things together. No more noble gestures or secrets between us. Your mine and believe me when I say that outcasts, berserkers, gods or anyone else will have to answer to me if they try to take you from me. Your mine now and I'm not letting go," she said as she brought her hand up to caress his face.

"I almost lost you again and I swear to any god that's listening that it's not going to happen again. If they want you then they will have to go through me."

"Astrid I...,"

"Because you're mine now Haddock, you try and leave me behind and you'll need more then one prosthetic," she said fiercely.

Hiccup gave up arguing at that point and chuckled. That was the Astrid he knew and loved.

He turned her face up to his and kissed her.

"Ok," he said smiling.

"Good," she said simply and buried herself further in his warm chest.

They lay their in each others arms, contented at last that they were finally, truly together. As they lay there Astrid looked lovingly at the ring that now adorned her hand. She had waited so long to feel its presence that she couldn't take her eyes off the beautiful object. She looked at the intricate design, the way the light reflected off its surface, highlighting the marbled effect of the mixed metals, the reflective surface of the dragon scales.

"Hiccup where did this come from?" She asked.

"Umm," Hiccup said as he lazily opened his eyes to look at the ring.

"I was given it."

"Who gave it to you?" She asked intrigued. Who would have kept such a beautiful and valuable object and then just given it away?

"I don't think you would believe me."

She looked up at him and he sighed.

"I wanted to make you a ring. You know, do something the traditional way for once but I didn't have any materials. I was desperate to ask you but without I ring I didn't think it would be right," he said honestly.

She slapped him gently on the chest.

"You idiot I didn't need a ring for you to ask me. I would have said yes if you'd asked me in passing across the dinner table."

Hiccup grinned at this.

"I realise that now but I really wanted to do it right. Thing is I knew I couldn't make a ring till I got back to Berk. It would have taken weeks but I was determined to do it right," he sighed.

"I was upset that I would have to wait that long and the Elder realised. On the day we left do you remember she wanted to talk to me alone?"

Astrid nodded.

"Well she wanted to do more than just talk to me. She took me back to the inner temple," Hiccup paused as the memories came flooding back. Astrid understood what was wrong.

"You're thinking about what happened there aren't you?"

He nodded.

"Yeah, its going to take a while for the memories to fade but the Elder said that to heal I needed to face my fear. It helped but its going to take time I think. I...I still have nightmares about the flames...," he trailed off and closed his eyes but opened them again at the feel of Astrid's hand on his face.

"She was right Hiccup but we will face those fears together. You don't have to do this alone," she said and looked at him deeply.

He nodded and kissed her palm in thanks.

"I know."

"Go on, what else happened?" Astrid said, encouraging him to finish the story.

"She took me to see Thors alter and showed me a hammer that had the effigy of a Night Fury and a rider carved on it. It was brought to the temple by my ancestor, Hamish, you know the one whose treasure we went after, she seemed to think that it was prophecy or something. She said that the rider and Night Fury were me and Toothless."

"She may be right Hiccup," Astrid said earnestly.

"I suppose," he reluctantly agreed.

"The other reason she took me there was to offer me a gift. She said that Thor had told her to let me choose an item from the gifts that had been left to honour him. Astrid there was more wealth there then I've ever seen my entire life. I could have chosen anything but I choose that box. If I didn't believe in the gods intervention before then I did afterwards when I saw what it contained. I knew straight away what I wanted to do with it," and he took her hand in his.

"The ring was a gift from Thor," and he brought the ring to his mouth and kissed it and the finger it adorned.

"Your not mad that I didn't make the ring myself are you?" he asked suddenly afraid that she would be offended.

"Hiccup I could never be mad at you for that. You could have handed me a broken Iron link and I would have let you place it on my finger. It's not the ring I wanted It was you."

He gave her a goofy grin.

"Were there two rings or just the one?" she asked suddenly wanting him to wear an oath band as she did to show everyone that he was hers. Not that anyone would have doubted it and if they did, well her axe would do the talking. She was filled with excitement when he reached into his tunic to pull out a second ring. She quickly took it from him.

She looked closely at the ring and her eyes widened at what she saw. The band was wider then hers, signifying that it was for a man rather than a woman and the design was very similar to her own but there was one significant difference.

"Hiccup did you look closely at this ring?"

Hiccup shook his head. He had spent more time gazing at the one he had given her.

"Their the same aren't they, apart from one being wider," he said now sitting up and looking at the ring in her hand.

"Nearly, but look there's a crest carved at the top of the band. Do you recognise it?" and she held the ring closer to the fire for him to see.

He looked and his eyes widened in shock.

"Is that...Is that my family crest?" he said looking at her in surprise.

"I think this belonged to your ancestor as well," she said gently tracing the Haddock chieftain crest with her thumb.

"Hiccup I really do think you have someone watching over you. Out of all that wealth you chose the one thing you wanted the most and ironically something that was always yours to own."

She turned to him.

"Your turn," she said and he looked at her with confusion for a moment before he realised what she wanted and held out his left hand.

"Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III, will you marry me," she said

Hiccup gave another goofy grin.

"I thought you'd never ask," he said earning himself a swat on the arm from Astrid before she slipped the ring onto his finger. As she did so Hiccup gave a shiver of pleasure at the cool feeling of the metal and the soft skin of her hand. It felt so right as though part of him that had been lost had been found at last. He was complete and he looked up at the woman who he would be bound to for the rest of his life and was once again stuck by her beauty. He leaned in, and with his left hand lifted her chin so that their eyes met.

"Astrid you know I really am the luckiest Viking alive right now. I never thought this day would come I was afraid that I would loose you before I gained the courage to ask you to be my wife. Thank you for choosing me...thank you for being patient," and he once again leaned in to capture her lips. The passion of their love as raw as before but welcome and when they were both sated with each other they lay back down again, sinking into each others embrace and drawing the cloak over themselves. Lulled by the soft beat of each others hearts they drifted off to sleep.

In the morning they would be found by the village and their union celebrated for days to come but for Astrid and Hiccup the only thing that mattered was that they had finally fulfilled their dream. Now there were new dreams to create and live. Who knew what the future would hold. All they knew was that they would face it together and that in itself was a dream come true.