A week has passed since Hiccup told Stoick what happened, so it was time for them to go back to Berk. Hiccup was hesitant at first, but the gang were able to convince him to come alone with them.
Two days later, the gang arrived at Berk, and went their separate ways to spend some time with their parents. Later that day, the gang, their parents, and Gobber went to the Chief's house for a meeting. Hiccup had no idea what was going on when he saw them come inside his house. They all had a serious look on their faces.
Gobber was the first to give Hiccup a big hug. Hiccup sighed. He could tell that they knew. Stoick placed his hand on Hiccup's shoulder and spoke.
"Don't worry, son. They are the only ones who know. They promised not to tell anyone." He said reassuringly. But Hiccup didn't look at him. Stoick sighed before speaking again.
"I think you must be wondering why we are here right now. Well... we are here to talk to you about our plan. We have all decided on how we are going to punish those pirates, but we will do it only if you agree with it." Hiccup looked at him. That got his attention.
"We have decided that the leader who raped you will be executed. And for the others, we will take all their clothes, food, and destroy their ship, and let them figure out a way to survive at sea. But we won't do this unless you agree with this, son. Gobber and I have been searching for the ship. We have found it, and have been tracking it so we would know where to look for it. And if you agree with this, we will need you to come with us to identify the pirate who raped you." Stoick said. They patiently waited for Hiccup to answer. They all hoped that he would agree with this because they strongly felt that those pirates deserved it. Especially the one who raped him. After a long moment of silence, Hiccup finally spoke.
"I... I don't know. You know I don't go for the kill... I can't... I want them to pay for what they did to me, but I just can't... and I... I don't think I can face those pirates again." Hiccup whispered with a shaky voice. Everyone let out a sigh. That was not the answer they wanted to hear.
"So... is it a no then?" Stoick asked. Hiccup closed his eyes and looked down. He was about to answer when he felt soft hands on his cheeks. He opened his eyes to see Astrid right in front of him.
"Can you think about it, Hiccup? Please? For me." Astrid said while caressing his cheek with her thumb. He nodded.
"Anything for you." He said softly, squeezing her hand lightly. She smiled.
"Alright. We will give you some time to think. Just let me know when you have decided." Stoick said with a small smile.
They all left the house, leaving Hiccup and Astrid alone. She squeezed his hand and spoke.
"Can I talk to you, Hiccup?" She asked softly. He knew exactly what she was going to talk about, but he was willing to hear what she has to say. He nodded before they went upstairs to his room.
