Chapter 4: The Sacrifice
The trip back to Berk went by in a haze. Hiccup was on his father's ship as Stoick believed that given Hiccup's state of mind shouldn't be riding. He just sat at the prow of the ship with Toothless curled around protectively. Stoick just watched helplessly. He didn't know what he could do. Hiccup was taking the failure of the mission hard. Stoick didn't blame him. Dagur was insane and honestly he was glad the man was dead. If Dagur had survived it would've been at the cost of his son. He had instructed five of the riders led by Fishlegs to take Dagur's body back to Berserker Island so the tribe could bury their leader and perform his funeral rights. Additionally he wrote a note calling for a temporary ceasefire so that the events of what occurred could be discussed.
After finally reaching Berk Stoick instructed his son to go home and rest. His son nodded his head mechanically and slowly trudged his way up the path to their house. Stoick watched his son walk into their home before getting on with his chief duties and getting the village prepared for what might come.
Inside his home Hiccup slowly made his way up to his room before throwing himself down on the bed. Thoughts of his failure haunted him. He had failed and now the safety of Berk was in jeopardy. If only he hadn't gone in by himself. If only he hadn't lowered his guard. Toothless gave a concerned croon from the side of his bed and nudged his face with his snout. Hiccup turned his gaze to his dragon and couldn't help but smile at his best friend. He raised his hand and placed it on the dragon's snout. He felt Toothless rumble against his hand felt himself relax.
"Thanks bud I'm alright. Just tired," Hiccup said to the dragon.
Toothless held his gaze for a few moments before yawning and going over to his stone bed. Scorching the surface of the slab he settled down and relaxed while keeping his eyes on Hiccup.
Hiccup then heard his front door open followed by someone coming up the stairs. He assumed his dad was coming up to try and comfort him. He appreciated his concern but wasn't in the mood for company. He listened to the footsteps as they got nearer and nearer to his room. Then the door opened and the figure was in his room.
"Hiccup?" Came the concerned voice of his girlfriend.
Hiccup turned his face toward the entrance of the room to see Astrid standing there. She looked worried and she fidgeted with her hands, unsure of what to do or say. After a few moments of silence Astrid spoke up. "I came to see if you were alright. And if you needed anything?"
Hiccup turned his head away and stared at the wall in front of him. "No Astrid. I just want to be alone," he said quietly.
Astrid watched Hiccup lay there miserably. She looked over at Toothless who laid on his stone bed gazing at Hiccup and mimicking her worried look. Coming to a decision Astrid came into the room. "Ok Hiccup I hear you," Astrid said walking over to Hiccups drawing table. Slowly she removed her spiked skirt and laid it on the table. Next went her metal shoulder pads and fur cape. Then walking around the bed she stood in front of Hiccup who just continued to stare into space not acknowledging her. Then Astrid lowered herself onto the bed and pressed herself close to him while wrapping her arms and around his chest and snuggling onto his chest armor.
"This isn't alone Astrid," Hiccup said in slight annoyance.
"I said I heard you. I didn't say I was gonna go," she responded sarcastically.
Hiccup sighed in acceptance knowing there was not point arguing with her. Her presence was comforting anyway and he felt himself relax even more as he listened to her steady breathing and took in her scent. She smelled like flowers, soot, iron, and dragons. A smell he had come to love over the years.
"It wasn't your fault you know," Astrid said breaking the silence. "It was a battle Hiccup. It was you or him. These things happen."
"I know," Hiccup responded before wrapping his arms around her and bringing his chin and resting it on the top of her head.
Astrid smiled against his chest before shifting herself up slightly and kissing Hiccup on the corner of his mouth.
Hiccup smiled and felt himself fall asleep. The plaguing thoughts momentarily forgotten and focusing on the moment with women he loved.
After a few hours of sleep Hiccup woke up in his bed with Astrid still wrapped around him. He smile at the peaceful face Astrid had when she slept. Feeling restless he got out of bed without disturbing the sleeping shield maiden and looked out the window. It was midday and the sun was shining as the villagers went about their daily lives. The sight of his village at peace brightened Hiccup's mood. For now at least his people were safe and happy and he would enjoy it.
Resting his hand on Toothless's head the dragon opened its eyes and warbled in greeting. "Come on bud lets go. Quietly though," he said shifting his eyes toward Astrid sleeping on his bed.
Slowly he made his way out of his with Toothless following right behind him. Making his way out the front door he took a deep breath taking in the fresh air of his home. Then raising his arms above his head he stretched out his muscles before making his way toward the forge.
Approaching the forge he heard the sound on metal hitting metal and knew his mentor must be at work. Entering the forge he saw Gobber hammering on a sword glowing molten red. Gobber noticing Hiccups presence and acknowledged him with a nod before jovially saying, "Well gu'ud mornin' there champ. How ya feeling?"
Hiccup smiled and chuckled lightly. Gobber had always been one of his good friends and he could always brighten Hiccup's day. "Better. I'm assuming you've heard what happened?"
"Oh you bet ah' did. You went toe to toe with that lunatic Dagur and won. Didn't know you had that in ya lad," Gobber said with a proud smile.
"Well thanks for that Gobber, your faith in me is appreciated. And I was supposed to capture him not kill him," Hiccup said good naturedly. "So anyway, anything I can do to help?"
Gobber pointed with his hammer prosthetic toward a pile of weapons on a table. "Those could use a good sharpening."
Hiccup nodded and put on a black smith apron before grabbing one of the swords from the pile and taking it towards the sharpening wheel. He got the wheel spinning and began to sharpen the blade. "Where's my dad?" Hiccup asked keeping his eyes on the sword.
"He went to go speak with the elders. Let em' know what happened," Gobber responded.
Hiccup nodded in understanding and continued to sharpen. After sharpening the sword to a satisfactory degree he placed in on a weapons rack and went to grab a dull battle axe. Returning to the wheel he sharpened in silence.
"It's not yer fault ya know. In a war you can't always avoid casualties," Gobber said not looking up from the glowing red sword.
"So everyone keeps telling me," Hiccup said continuing his sharpening.
"That's cuz it's true," was Gobber's sage like response.
"Hiccup!" Came a shout from a distance.
Hiccup quickly removed his apron and ran outside the forge. Looking up he saw yellow and purple Nightmare descend from the sky and land a few feet away in front of him. "Gustav! What's wrong?" Hiccup said to the frantic rider on the back of the dragon.
The rider took a breath before looking into Hiccup and answering, "I was coming back from patrol when I saw three Berserker ships approaching Berk. I warned them that they should turn back or be attacked but they said they just wanted to talk…to you. Alone"
Hiccup eyes widened in surprise. "To me? Did they say why?" Hiccup asked.
"No just said they wanted to talk," Gustav answered.
Mounting Toothless he turned to Gustav and said, "Alright let's get to the academy first."
Gustav nodded in agreement before both dragons leapt into the air and headed to the academy. Then movement to his left caught his attention and he gazed into the eyes of an annoyed Astrid.
He smiled and said, "Oh hey there sleeping beauty."
"You could've woken me up you know," she huffed in irritation.
"But you looked so peaceful and pretty," responded as innocently as he could.
Astrid just rolled her eyes and turned her gaze back to the direction of the academy.
"NO!"
"But"
"NO!"
"But"
"NO HICCUP! You're not going to speak to the Berserkers alone," Astrid replied hotly with her hand on her hips.
After arriving at the academy with all the rider's present Hiccup informed them of what they had told Gustav. Hiccup then told them that he thought he should go and speak to them alone.
"Look maybe I can speak to them, convince them that killing Dagur was an accident, and I don't know the current leader can call off the war," Hiccup defended.
"Or maybe it's a trap to capture you or kill you," Astrid replied.
"I gotta agree with Astrid Hiccup. Going alone seems like a bad idea," Fishlegs interjected.
Astrid looked at Hiccup and nodded in agreement before turning back to Hiccup and smiling triumphantly.
After glaring at Fishlegs Hiccup looked back to Astrid before pressing on, "Look it's my fault we're in this mess. I failed the mission. But they said they wanted to talk. If their intentions were hostile they could have brought more ships." He took a moment to let Astrid and the others process the information before continuing, "And besides, I wouldn't be alone I'll have Toothless with me."
Astrid narrowed her eyes and crossed her arms over her chest. "I'm not going to let you go alone Hiccup and you can't stop me from coming."
"Or me," Snotlout said stepping forward to stand beside Astrid.
"Or us," said the twins joining them.
"Or me," said Fishlegs joining them.
"OR US!" Came the cry from the rest of the Academy members.
Hiccup sighed. Normally this show of concern would be touching. But right now their stubbornness was irritating. He saw their concern but he felt he had to do this. He was the one responsible for this after all. Making up his mind he mounted Toothless while the other did the same. They were gonna probably hate him from what he was about to do and he didn't want to think of what Astrid was gonna do to him after his talk with the Berserkers but he was gonna go through with it.
"Sorry guys I hoped I would never have to do this but you're not giving me much of a choice here," Hiccup sighed.
The others' eyebrows raised in confusion. Taking a deep breath he brought his fingers to his lips and whistled as loud as he could to get all the dragons attention. Then he made a few hand gestures before point firmly down to the ground. Then patting Toothless on the head the dragon roared as loud as it could to the other dragons.
A moment passed as the dragons registered what had occurred. Then one by one they lowered themselves to the grounds and folded their wings tightly against their sides. Even with orders from their riders they refused to move. The other couldn't believe what Hiccup had just done. They looked to him for an explanation.
"Sorry again guys. But I've helped train all your dragons. Over the years I've trained them to obey this command. They won't move for at least an hour or until I give them go ahead. This should give me just enough time to speak with the Berserkers alone," Hiccup explained.
He looked to Astrid who was furious and quickly added, "I'm sorry and I love you. Please don't hate me." Before Astrid could advance on him Toothless darted from the arena and then with his tail struck the lever that closed the gate to the arena trapping nearly all the riders inside. "Let's go bud," he said patting Toothless on the head. Toothless shot into the air and headed towards the dock where he could see the Berserker ships in the distance.
He really hoped he was right about their intentions to just talk.
Flying to the center ship he hovered a few feet above it. The Berserkers all watched with hands on weapons. Scanning the ships he looked for someone who could be identified as the leader. Seeing none he decided to ask.
"I've just come to talk. Who's the leader here?" Hiccup shouted.
Waiting a few moments a large Viking stepped forward with his hand up.
"Easy men. Weapons down. We're just here to talk," he said to the men.
"Are you the leader?" Hiccup asked.
"Yes come on down so we can talk in my cabin. Nothing will happen to you or your dragon," the Viking said.
Hiccup directed Toothless to land on the cabin of the leader's ship. Dismounting, he told Toothless to stay put before jumping down to the deck. Then the leader of the company stepped forward with his hand outstretched.
"Greetings Hiccup. I am Beheader the Bloody. Thank you for meeting with us," the man spoke politely.
Hiccup took the hand and gave it a shake. "It's no problem. The cabin right?"
"Yes right this way," the man said gesturing to the door of the cabin.
Hiccup nodded before entering the cabin. The small cabin had a table in the center of the room with maps on the walls and a few barrels and sacks of food about the cabin. Hiccup went to the table and took a seat on the left side. Beheader took a seat on the right side. Taking off his helmet on placing it down on the table before looking at Hiccup. Beheader was a large man. Taller and broader than Hiccup he looked to be in his thirties. He had brown wild beard and long hear tied back in a ponytail. He wore a black fur vest with the Berserkers insignia sewn into the right side. Underneath the vest he wore a green tunic. On his arms he had spiked leather cuffs. He took a breath before starting the talks.
"Once again my name is Beheader and I am currently the acting chief of the Berserker tribe. I've come to discuss what is going to happen now with the death of our chief."
"Yeah about Dagur," he took a breath through the nose before continuing. "Look, that was an accident I swear. We were fighting and he just fell over the edge of this large drop. It was not my intention to kill him," Hiccup explained.
Beheader just smiled before waving his hand nonchalantly, "Oh I don't give a Gronckle's fart about Dagur. That man was crazy. Almost killed me at least 30 times. I'm glad he's dead."
Hiccup's jaw fell open agape. He thought the man would be furious. "Oh. Well that's a relief. So I mean are we good then? You know war over and peace?" Hiccup asked hopefully.
The man's face became serious and he sighed, "Unfortunately not Hiccup. You see while I'm glad he's dead. We can't just let the tribe who killed our leader go without taking aggressive action," he looked straight into Hiccup's eyes before continuing. "We are the Berserkers after all. What kind of message would that send if we didn't retaliate? So no Hiccup the war will continue. And unlike Dagur who wanted to capture your Night Fury first before destroying Berk I will direct the tribe to attack in full force with our armada of 50,000 ships."
Hiccups face paled and his blood ran cold. The war would rage on. Even if they could win with the dragons and the alliance with the Outcasts the casualties Berk would suffer would be great. This was his fault. If he hadn't killed Dagur. What could he do to make it right? His mind went into overdrive as he tried to think of a solution. Suddenly a plan sprung to mind. It just might work and he had nothing to lose.
"But it's my fault Dagur is dead," Hiccup stated quickly.
"Like you said it's nobody's fault. But your tribe is responsible so—"
Before he could continue Hiccup quickly interrupted, "No I killed Dagur. The tribe's plan was to capture him alive. But I killed because of our history. I hated him," Hiccup stated with the straightest face he could manage.
Beheader raised an eyebrow. He searched Hiccup's face for any evidence that he was lying. He couldn't see any but he knew Hiccup's reputation and he wasn't known to be bloodthirsty. But then again retaliating against one man was a lot easier than going to war with a whole tribe. So coming to a decision he spoke, "Ok Hiccup I believe you. The Berserker tribe won't take aggressive action toward your tribe," Hiccup's shoulders sagged in relief. "But we will take aggressive action against you," Beheader finished pointing at Hiccup for emphasis.
Hiccup nodded his head in understanding. "I understand," he stated.
"But just so you know Hiccup if you stay on Berk we will attack it to get to you. You understand what this means don't you?" Beheader asked.
"Yes I do." Exile. Hiccup thought. He looked directly back into the eyes of Beheader before asking his question. "How do I know the Berserkers won't attack Berk if I do leave?"
Beheader looked insulted at the question. Scoffing he replied, "Unlike Dagur, I have a sense of honor and respect. You have my word Hiccup." Beheader stood and reached his arm across the table. "Deal?"
Hiccup stood and took his hand in acceptance. "Deal," he replied.
With the negotiations finished Beheader led Hiccup to the door and held it open for him. Stepping onto the deck Toothless leapt down in front of him obviously relieved to see he was ok. He warbled in happiness and bumped Hiccup's chest.
"You better get going lad," Beheader spoke up and pointed towards Berk. Looking towards Berk Hiccup could see five Hooligan ships approaching.
"I guess you're right," he said before he mounted Toothless.
Beheader spoke one last time before he took off. "No action will be taken for a week. We will use that time to mourn the loss of our leader. We will keep a ship on the look out to ensure that you leave. Wouldn't want to violate the terms of our agreement and attack Berk while you aren't on it."
Hiccup nodded and directed Toothless to fly. Flying back towards Berk he circled back to the Hooligan ships and yelled at them to return to shore. They nodded and started to turn the ships around. He was dreading the return to Berk and the confrontation with Astrid. What he dreaded even worse was the pain he was going to put her and his father through when he told them the terms of the agreement. Steeling himself he urged Toothless to speed up. Taking in the sight of Berk and trying to memorize every detail knowing that this may be the last time he would ever see it.
Astrid slowly paced in front of the forge steaming in anger. She was furious at Hiccup for leaving without her. She was furious that he would be so stupid as to go alone. She also felt betrayed by that secret order he had trained into Stormfly all those years. It was a complete violation of trust. As soon as they had gotten out of the academy she went to find Stoick and informed him of what had happened. Stoick immediately responded by sending out five of their ships to retrieve Hiccup and sink the Berserker ships should they be holding him captive.
Suddenly a gasp from the crowds caused her to look around and see villagers looking towards the sky and pointing. Looking up she spotted Toothless approaching the village. Circling above the village square Toothless spiraled down and landed with a slight bump. Immediately Hiccup was swarmed by villagers asking what happened. They all crowded him so Hiccup couldn't get a word in edge wise. After looking him over and seeing him in pretty much the same condition in which he had left she began to march toward him.
Uh oh here it comes. Hiccup thought as he noticed Astrid approaching him with fury written all over her face. Toothless could sense her anger and made a move to stand in front of Hiccup in order to protect him from the shieldmaiden's wrath. Hiccup stopped him however with a scratch to the neck and a few words. "No bud, I deserve this." Hiccup said preparing himself.
The crowd went silent and parted to let Astrid through and when she finally reached Hiccup she looked up at him and glared daggers into his eyes.
He fidgeted and rubbed the back of his neck nervously. He looked into her eyes and with a weak smile said, "Hi."
SLAP! The crowd gasped lightly as the sound of Astrid's hand hitting Hiccup's face seemed to echo throughout the whole village.
Hiccup stumbled to the side from the force of the blow before placing his hand on his stinging cheek and raising his hand towards the advancing shieldmaiden. In an attempt to end his punishment he frantically spoke, "Ok Astrid I know you're mad and you have every right to be but—"
Hiccup didn't get to finish his statement as Astrid used her other hand to slap his other cheek with even greater force than her first one. Stumbling in the other direction he was met with another slap of even greater force on the original cheek. Finally recovering he raised his hand up submissively and backed away slowly from the advancing Astrid. Not letting him escape Astrid reached her arms out and behind Hiccup's head pulling down his upper body and meeting it halfway bringing her knee up to it ram right into his chest. Having the breath knocked out of him he reeled back in an attempt to get some air before Astrid grabbed his right arm before rolling him over her shoulder and flipping him onto his back and slamming him into the ground. Gasping for breath and groaning in pain Hiccup opened his eyes to find Astrid looming over him.
Finally regaining his breath he cautiously asked, "Ok. Are we good?"
Astrid just stood still for a moment before finally stomping on his chest lightly and once again knocking the air out of his lungs. Backing up a few steps she allowed Hiccup to recover. After catching his breath once again he slowly got to his feet and faced her. She took a step towards him and he flinched slightly. She reached out her arms and pulled him into an embrace. Her anger finally subsided she just wanted to hold the person she loved. Hiccup put his arms around her and held her close. She pressed her face into his chest and mumbled a quiet apology before turning her gaze up to his face. Standing on her tip toes she kissed him lightly on the lips. Then she grabbed by the back of the head and pulled him down into a deeper kiss.
Hiccup was surprised at the intense public display of affection Astrid was doing. She rarely did this. But he decided not to question it and returned her kiss with full force. Suddenly a loud cough caught their attention and they broke the kiss. Looking around he saw his father looming over him with his hands on his hips and a very unhappy expression.
"Son are you alright?" Stoick asked in concern while keep the serious expression on his face.
"Yes dad they didn't harm me they just wanted to talk," Hiccup responded.
"Good," Stoick nodded. "Cuz I ought to kill you for doing something so foolish!" Stoick roared. "What in the name of Odin were you thinking son?" He finished.
"They just wanted to talk dad and Beheader the Bloody, the acting leader, and I came to an agreement," Hiccup said as he mentally prepared himself for the next question.
Stoick raised an eyebrow and then asked, "Oh and what exactly did this agreement entail?"
Hiccup sighed then took a deep breath. Running a hand through his hair he continued. "Beheader stated that Dagur's death would be met with war against the whole tribe," he heard the crowd gasp and waited for Stoick to raise his hands to silence them. "But I was able to convince to only hold me responsible for Dagur's death. Thus, Beheader has decided that retaliation will only be taken against me. And as long as I leave Berk the tribe will be left alone," Hiccup finished and waited for everyone to absorb the information.
Suddenly his arm was yanked by Astrid who looked him in the eyes. "Hiccup no. You made yourself a scapegoat," she said horrified.
"Yes Astrid, but the safety of tribes come above all else," Hiccup stated somberly.
From the crowd came a shout, "To hel with the agreement! I say if those damned Berserkers want war I say we give it to them!" The crowd roared in agreement calling for war.
"NO!" Hiccup shouted silencing the crowd. Sweeping over the crowd he continued when he had their attention. "The Berserker tribe is too large and powerful to fight. Even with the alliance we have with the Outcasts and the dragons we would lose too much. Especially if all the fleet attacks at once," he paused and took a breath before driving his point home. "No one person is above the safety of the entire tribe this is the best option."
"But you're not just one person Hiccup," Astrid said at his side.
"She's right Hiccup," his father said grabbing his attention. Turning to look into his father's eyes, his father continued, "You're the pride of Berk, our best dragon trainer and rider, and you're my son and heir."
"But it's my fault that this has happened. I failed the mission, I've brought this upon us, and it's my responsibility to make it right," Hiccup responded resolutely.
Finding reason in his son's logic he tried to change his point. "How do we know that the leader will keep his word? What if you leave and their tribe attacks anyway then what?"
"If they do attack with their entire fleet Toothless and I wouldn't make much of a difference. This is the best way," Hiccup responded.
Stoick had no come back. Hiccup's reasoning was too sound. As the chief he knew this. But as his father he couldn't let his son do this. He couldn't stand by and watch him sacrifice himself for the tribe.
Hiccup stepped toward his father and locked eyes with him. With a determined look on his face he was intent on driving his point home. "You once told me that being the chief meant making the hard decisions. No matter how much you don't like it. Now I ask that you make the hard decision now. Cast your judgment. Banish me."
Stoick looked down at the serious expression his son was making. He was intent on going through with this. He was intent on saving the whole tribe even if it meant banishment. He looked back on all the years he treated Hiccup poorly. Like he was a nuisance. And now the boy had grown into the noblest man he'd ever met. A pang of guilt threatened to overwhelm him. Suddenly he felt moisture collecting in his eyes. Blinking them away he locked eyes with his son and swallowed the lump in his throat.
"I can't son. Not after everything I've done to ya'. I'll be damned if a cast you out again," Stoick muttered quietly.
A small smile formed on Hiccup's face. He was touched that his father couldn't bring himself to banish him. Even when he was demanding it. It showed how much he loved him. "Thanks Dad," Hiccup said sincerely. But he knew what he had to do. Turning to face Astrid and the crowd he cleared his throat and took a breath through the nose. "I Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III hereby secede from the Hooligan tribe. I renounce my claim as the future chief and go into exile, self-imposed, and cut all ties to Berk." He looked into the pained eyes of Astrid and his heart broke. This was tearing her up inside he could tell. She was trying to stay strong but he knew she cared about him as much as he did her. Even if she showed it differently. He tore his eyes away from her and his heart broke again at the pain in his father's eyes. Ducking his head he quietly said, "I'm going to go pack some things. As soon as I'm done I'll be leaving." He quickly stepped around his father and began to walking quickly to his house.
Behind him Toothless loyally followed. Sensing his rider's grief he kept a diligent eye on him as they made their way to their home.
Throwing open the door to his house he quickly walked up the stairs to his room. Finding his satchel he began to make a mental list of everything he would need. He heard footsteps quickly coming up the stairs and Astrid quickly strode into the room. Walking up to him she stopped in front of him before speaking. "You're not really gonna do this are you?" She hysterically shouted.
He walked around her and grabbed his sketchbook off his work table and tucked it into the pocket inside his armor.
"HICCUP!" she shouted angrily.
He turned to face before answering. "I have to do this Astrid. What choice do I have? It's either this or war."
"Then let's go to war," she shouted. "Let's fight, don't let them chase you away. Don't just give up."
"I'm not giving up Astrid. I'm sacrificing myself for the sake of my home," he said trying to control his voice. "For you," he added.
Astrid looked down. As a soldier she also understood sacrifice. A good soldier would give his life if he could defend his home. Hiccup was doing the same thing. Didn't mean she liked it. "Then I'm going with you," she stated.
"No Astrid. After me you're the best trainer and rider. I need you to run the academy as the new head and train future riders," Hiccup responded.
"I don't care Hiccup. I'm not gonna let you go alone," Astrid said defiantly.
Hiccup stopped his packing and walked to Astrid. He took her hands in his and caressed them with his thumbs.
He looked straight into her eyes before continuing. "Please Astrid. I need you here. If you love me, please stay. Please don't fight me," Hiccup pleaded.
"If you love me then stay. Please," Astrid said on the verge of tears.
"I'm doing this because I love you Astrid," Hiccup answered.
After taking a shaky breath she lowered her shoulders in defeat. "Ok. I will," she responded sadly.
"Thank you. Can you wait for me by the docks? I gotta pack."
She nodded slowly and turned and trudged out of the room. Watching her go he turned to Toothless. Sitting on his stone slab he watched the encounter and gave a concerned croon. Extending his right hand towards Toothless the dragon came over to put his snout against his hand. With his eyes closed he purred into the hand. Lowering himself and kneeling down on he came to eye level with Toothless. "Bud. I know you're not gonna like this but I don't want you to come with me."
Toothless's eyes snapped open and he vigorously shook his head and growled. He glared at Hiccup with his teeth bared make his displeasure known.
"Look bud it's bad enough I'm leaving. There's no reason to ruin your life too," Hiccup argued.
Toothless thrashed his tail back and forth in anger and roared lightly in response.
"Come on. Astrid knows how to fly on you. Gobber could make the fin that you can operate on your own. You don't need me to fly bud."
Toothless just shook his head and began puffing smoke from his nostrils. To hell with flying. Hiccup was his best friend. Hell, he was more than that. He was his family. His brother. He would never abandon him. Anything his human was going though they would face it together.
"No Toothless you're not coming. And that's that," Hiccup said crossing his arms.
Toothless just growled some more and bumped Hiccup in the chest with his snout with enough force to knock him off his feet. Landing on his back he was quickly pinned when Toothless lowered his head onto his chest and used his body to pin Hiccup's legs. After struggling to dislodge himself from under his dragon for at least ten minutes Hiccup spread his arms to his side in defeat.
"Alright fine. You can come," Hiccup huffed.
Toothless just snorted as if to say. Like there was ever any doubt. Hiccup was actually relieved. There was no one he would rather face exile with than Toothless.
After Hiccup finished packing he made his way down to the docks. In the saddle bags on Toothless and the satchel Hiccup had over his shoulder he had maps, a spare charcoal stick, spare parts and tools to repair or replace the tail fin or saddle, camping gear, food, water, a bit of gold so he could purchase things from ports and towns, and his mother's breastplate helmet. He couldn't bring himself to leave that. It was too precious. Additionally he brought his shield and sword in case he ran into trouble
Walking down to the docks he saw villagers staring at him with mixed looks of sympathy and respect. He was proud to protect his people and he would go into exile a thousand times over if he had to. Finally reaching the docks he saw Astrid, his father, Gobber, and a handful of other Vikings gathered to see him off. They all had sad looks on their faces as he walked up to them. They all stood in silence not knowing what to say. Just as Hiccup opened his mouth to speak a scream from the direction of the village caught his attention.
"HICCUP! WAIT!" Came the familiar voice of Fishlegs.
Turning towards the village he saw Fishlegs, the twins, and Snotlout running towards him as fast as they could. Reaching him they all gasped to catch their breaths.
"Uh. Hey guys what's up?" Hiccup asked casually.
They all fidgeted before Fishlegs stepped up and held out a sheathed blade.
"I just wanted you to have this. You know to keep you safe," Fishlegs said nervously.
Hiccup reached out and took the blade in both hands. Unsheathing it slightly he examined and recognized the metal as Gronckle Iron.
"Legs this is your Gronckle Iron sword. I can't take this," Hiccup said before sheathing the blade and holding it out for Fishlegs to take.
Fishlegs made no attempt to take the sword back. He stepped back and fiddled with his hands. "I'll feel better knowing you have it," he said with a small smile.
Hiccup returned the smile with his own and nodded. Placing it at his hip he patted Fishlegs on the arm. "Thanks Legs I appreciate it."
The boy nodded and stepped aside for the twins. They had something behind their backs.
Tuffnut stepped forward first and held up a small sack. "I got you some extra food. It's nothing good just some extra rations of dried meat and bread, but you know…figured it might help…a little," the boy muttered looking down.
Hiccup smile and graciously accepted the bag with thanks.
Ruffnut stepped forward slightly shoving her brother and held up another small sack. "I got you some herbs and stuff. They're for making medicine in case you get sick or injured or whatever," she said sadly.
"Thanks Ruff. I honestly didn't think to grab any of that stuff," Hiccup said gladly accepting the bag.
The twins stepped back and Snotlout stepped forward. Rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly he seemed intent on looking everywhere besides Hiccup. Then slowly he reached behind his back and pulled out a sheathed dagger. On the sheath was the crest of the Jorgenson clan. Hiccup reached out and took it. Examining it before Snotlout coughed to get his attention.
"Yeah….That's just my lucky dagger. Figured it be more handy when that puny one you keep on your arm breaks," gesturing the small dagger on Hiccups forearm.
"Thanks Snotlout. I'm sure it's gonna save my ass one day," Hiccup joked.
"Yeah probably," Snotlout muttered quietly.
Hiccup held out his hand for his cousin to shake. Snotlout hesitated for a moment before taking the hand in a firm grip and shaking.
Hiccup turned back toward Astrid, his father, and Gobber. Gobber patted Hiccup on the shoulder and smiled. "Who's gonna help me out at the forge now?"
Hiccup just shook his head with a smile and shrugged his shoulders.
"You did good lad," Gobber added with a proud smile.
Hiccup nodded and turned towards his father. The large man gave his son a sad smile. He opened his mouth to speak but no words came out. Taking a breath he looked Hiccup in the eyes and said with all the conviction he could muster, "You've made me proud son. I just want you to know that. You would have been the greatest chief Berk had ever seen."
"Thanks dad," Hiccup said with a proud smile.
His father nodded before coughing and asking, "So is it just going to be you and Toothless then?"
Hiccup nodded, "Yeah just the two—." Suddenly a shriek from the sky caught everyone's attention.
A small green blur quickly descended and perched on Hiccups shoulder. It was a small Terrible Terror that they all knew well.
"Sharpshot! Hey boy what are you doing here?" Hiccup said giving the Terror a scratch on the chin. The dragon purred in delight before rubbing itself against Hiccup's cheek affectionately. The small dragon was Hiccup's personal messenger Terror and was extremely loyal to him.
"No little buddy you can't come," he moved to take the Terror off his shoulder when his father stopped him.
"Actually Hiccup take him. If you ever need us just send him with a message telling us where you are and we'll be there."
Hiccup thought about it for a moment before nodding in acceptance. With his new travelling companion perched on his shoulder he lastly turned to face Astrid.
He could see the pain in her eyes. To those who didn't know Astrid you'd never tell she was on the verge of tears. Slowly he reached out took one her hands in his. She looked at him before fling her arms around him and pulling him into a tight embrace. Sharpshot hissed in annoyance at the sudden action and flew to land on Toothless's saddle.
Hiccup and Astrid held each other tightly for what seemed like hours. Never wanting to let go ,but knowing he had to, he pulled away. Looking into her beautiful eyes he closed the gap and kissed her for what he knew would probably be the last time. Astrid kissed him back clinging to his riding gear desperately.
Then finally he pulled away and leaned forward to whisper in her ear. "Protect them. Be safe. Live long and have a good life," he said quietly.
She whispered her response in his ear just loud enough for him to hear. "You are my life," she gave him a sad smile as he pulled away.
It took all his will power to turn away from her. Walking to Toothless he reached into the saddle bag and pulled out his riding helmet. Putting it on he mounted Toothless and clicked his prosthetic into the stirrup. Sharpshot jumped onto his shoulder and wrapped his tail around Hiccup's arm to secure himself while digging his claws lightly into his armor.
With one last look Hiccup looked to his friends and said, "Thank you guys. For everything."
Then he signaled Toothless to take off. Opening his wings Toothless leapt into the air and flapped his wings to get them airborne. Then Hiccup continued to let Toothless rise to a comfortable altitude before leveling out and flying away from Berk. Taking one last look he saw his friends, father and villagers waving at him. Turning his body he gave a wave back before looking at his little island one final time. Finally he turned away and leaned forward in the saddle to pick up speed. Looking down at the ocean he saw a lone Berserker ship sitting in the water. Just as Beheader had said there would be. Blinking away tears he gave small sniff.
Toothless crooned in concern turning his head to look at his rider. Sharpshot gave small chirp and nuzzled Hiccup in attempt to comfort him.
"I'm alright guys," Hiccup said to reassure his companions.
Once he felt far enough away from Berk he steered Toothless west. In the time he took packing he had gone over the maps and came up with a plan on what he would do. With the Berserkers after him he couldn't stay in one place too long. So he decided he would travel west and island hop until he reached his final destination. Along the way he would explore and study any island not on the maps he had. Additionally he would document any new dragons he found. But he would keep heading toward his main goal.
The place he was headed was a place no Viking would ever go. For they would be killed for just being a Viking. Yes, he would travel straight into the land of one of Viking kind's mortal enemies. The Highlanders. It was the perfect plan. The Berserker fleet couldn't just storm into Scotland to look for him. Plus it would be the last place they would think to look. After all, what Viking would be idiot enough to hide there? As long as he stayed hidden he would be safe though.
So with his destination set in mind he urged Toothless to go a little faster, and his companion happily obliged. Surfing the skies the three travelers reveled in the freedom that it offered.
Their new life would be tough. It would probably be a little lonely. But as long as they had each other none of them would ever be alone.
For those of you wondering and still interested in the story thus far Merida will finally make her appearance in the next chapter. On a side note feel free to review and offer any advice. This is my first fanfic and so far I'm moderately happy with the progress and I hope anyone reading like it as well.