Chapter 4: The Great Library.
After a nice long and peaceful sleep in makeshift tents, the people of Berk join the Draconian people outside by the fire.
"Ah morning people of Berk. I was wondering when you would wake." says Harald gesturing to a spare bunch of seats by one fire. "The King recalled Prince Ryder to the city, to ready him for his coronation later tonight."
"When are we heading back to our camp?" asks Stoick taking his seat.
"I have been instructed to wait until you have finished eating. After that I will send a force of ships with you to gather people and lead you to Draconia." says Harald eating his bread. "Captain Olaf will take a force of 4 ships with you."
"Aye sir." says Olaf taking a bow. "Men gather at the ships!"
After the group finishes their food, they head to the docks and sail back to their camp. At Berk's campsite, the people are seen gathering more materials for tents and going about their daily jobs.
"When you are ready to sail." says Captain Olaf aboard his ship.
"Of course captain, lead us to Draconia." says Stoick getting a nod from Olaf as both fleets sail for Draconia.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, bathing the city of Draconia in dusky hues, the council of Berk arrived to witness the grand Royal Coronation. Stoick the Vast, with his powerful presence, led the way, followed closely by Valka Haddock and their companions, Spitelout Jorgenson, Sven and Gunhild Hofferson, Astrid Hofferson, Snotlout Jorgenson, Fishlegs Ingerman, Ruffnut and Tuffnut Thorston. The towering spires of Draconia's Royal Hall loomed overhead, as the council members gazed in awe at the grandeur of the city.
"By Odin's beard," exclaimed Snotlout, his voice filled with wonder. "I've never seen anything like this before."
Fishlegs nodded in agreement, his eyes wide with amazement. "It's like something out of a fairy tale."
As they made their way through the bustling streets, the sound of laughter and chatter filled the air, mingling with the clatter of horses' hooves on cobblestones. Suddenly, a trumpet blared, cutting through the noise, signalling the beginning of the ceremony. The council members quickened their pace, eager to reach the Royal Hall in time for Prince Ryder and Prince Valentine's coronations. Inside the grand hall, the atmosphere was electric with anticipation, the air thick with the scent of incense and burning torches. Prince Ryder stood tall and proud, his eyes gleaming with determination as he prepared to take his place as the future ruler of the Isle of Night. Prince Valentine, his pureborn brother, exuded a regal air, his features set in a mask of solemnity as he awaited his own coronation. King Ragnar Ridaris, their father, took the stage, his voice booming across the hall as he addressed the assembled crowd.
"My people," he began, his words echoing off the stone walls. "Tonight, we celebrate not one, but two princes who have grown into fine young men before our very eyes."
The council of Berk watched in rapt attention, their hearts swelling with pride for the two princes they had come to know and love.
"Prince Valentine," King Ragnar continued, his voice tinged with warmth. "My pureborn son, destined for greatness from the moment he drew his first breath."
The crowd erupted into cheers and applause, their voices mixing in a cacophony of sound that reverberated throughout the hall. Prince Valentine inclined his head, a small smile playing on his lips as he soaked in the adulation of his people.
"And Prince Ryder," King Ragnar went on, turning his gaze to his adopted son. "A boy who came to us as a stranger, but who has become a true prince in every sense of the word."
At these words, the council of Berk exchanged knowing glances, their hearts swelling with pride for the young prince who had overcome so much.
"To the Prince of Draconia and Prince of the Isle of Night!" shouts Lord Commander Harald as the hall roars with cheers and congratulations "Hush, the King has one last message he'd like to share."
"As of midday tomorrow, the Princes will swear to their vows as Kings." says King Ragnar sitting on his throne. "Until then, I bid everyone a good night. See you all at the Isle of Night."
As everyone leaves the hall the King calls upon a guard.
"I wish to see the people of Berk tomorrow in the Royal Dining Hall." says the King as the guard bows and leaves the King.
The next morning inside the Royal Palace of Draconia, the people of Berk wake to the sounds of birds chirping and horses clattering the streets below. As they start changing into suitable robes, they receive some knocks at the doors.
"Excuse me people of Berk, you have been summoned by the King." says one of the guards in the hall. "He requests you meet him in the Royal Diner."
"Of course, do you know where we might find the Royal Diner?" asks Stoick as they exit their room.
"Follow me, I have been instructed to lead you to the Diner." says another guard taking the group to the Dining Hall.
As the first rays of dawn filtered through the stained glass windows of the Royal Dining Hall in Draconia's palace, the council of Berk gathered anxiously around the long oak table. Stoick the Vast Haddock, his brow furrowed with worry, sat at the head of the table, flanked by his trusted companions - Valka Haddock, Snotlout Jorgenson, Astrid Hofferson, and Fishlegs Ingerman. King Ragnar Ridaris entered the hall with a flourish, his crimson robes billowing behind him. Guardsman Tywin and Guardsman Joffrey followed closely behind, their armour gleaming in the soft light. The King greeted the council with a warm smile, but his eyes held a hint of solemnity.
"Thank you for joining me," King Ragnar began, his voice like rumbling thunder. "I have called this meeting to discuss the future of Berk after the tragic events that befell your village."
Stoick cleared his throat, his voice gruff with emotion. "We have lost everything," he said, his fists clenching on the table.
There was a collective murmur of agreement from the council members, their faces etched with grief and determination.
The King nodded, his expression grave. "I understand your pain, Stoick. Which is why I have a proposition for you." He paused, letting the tension in the room thicken. "I am offering the Isle of Night as a new home for the people of Berk."
Gasps of surprise echoed through the hall, followed by a hushed silence as the council members exchanged uncertain glances.
Astrid spoke up, her voice tinged with scepticism. "The Isle of Night? Isn't that... uncharted territory?"
The King nodded. "It is a wild land, full of ruins and unknown fortunes. But it is also a place where you can start anew, away from the reach of your enemies."
Snotlout snorted derisively. "Will we be safe on this new island?"
Valka, usually quiet and reserved, let out a low hum of contemplation. "We must consider all options," she said, her eyes fixed on the King. "But if this is our best chance at rebuilding Berk, then we must take it."
The council members looked at each other, their expressions a mix of fear and hope. Finally, Stoick spoke, his voice steady and resolute. "We will accept your offer, King Ragnar. We will make the Isle of Night our new home."
"Good. I will make the necessary arrangements for your journey. Together, we will ensure that Berk rises from the ashes stronger than ever." says the King smiling, a glimmer of pride in his eyes. "Of course my son Prince Ryder will be joining you, as he is due to inherit the Isle's throne."
"Of course, perhaps my people will start by helping Prince Ryder with rebuilding the ruins then they can help us rebuild." says Stoick looking towards the King.
"Aye, perhaps we shall take a look at the maps in the Library." says the King finishing his food. "I will have some guards escort your people into the city below where they can explore and see our life."
The Royal Library bustled with activity as King Ragnar Ridaris and Stoick The Vast Haddock pored over maps spread upon a grand mahogany table. Prince Ryder Ridaris lounged in a nearby chair, idly flipping through a tome, while Prince Valentine Ridaris paced the room, deep in thought.
"We need to find a suitable land for Berk's relocation, one that offers resources and security," King Ragnar stated, his voice firm and commanding.
Stoick nodded in agreement, his brow furrowed in contemplation. "I suggest we consider the island neighbouring the Isle of Night. It's fertile and strategically positioned for trade routes."
Prince Ryder looked up from his book, a spark of interest in his eyes. "That could work well for Berk. What say you, Valentine?"
Prince Valentine halted his pacing and turned to face his father and advisors. A mischievous grin played on his lips. "I concur. The Isle of Night's neighbour sounds promising. We can strengthen alliances and enrich our kingdom."
King Ragnar's gaze shifted between his sons, pride gleaming in his eyes. "It's settled then. We shall reach out to Prince Ryder's contacts on the neighbouring island and propose a partnership."
As the discussion continued, plans began to take shape. Stoick drafted careful notes, detailing the potential benefits of the new alliance, while Prince Valentine suggested ways to ensure a smooth transition for Berk's residents. Suddenly, a loud crash echoed through the library, causing everyone to jump in surprise. Prince Ryder leaped to his feet, his hand on the hilt of his sword, ready for battle.
"What was that?" Prince Ryder exclaimed, his voice sharp with concern.
King Ragnar raised a calming hand. "Steady, my son. Let us investigate."
Stoick led the way, his massive frame towering over the others as they followed the sound to a secluded corner of the library. There, they found a young scribe, his face flushed with embarrassment as he tried to gather scattered scrolls.
"Forgive me, Your Majesty. I tripped over a stack of books," the scribe stammered, his voice a nervous squeak.
Prince Valentine chuckled softly, offering a helping hand to the flustered scribe. "No harm done, my friend. Just be more careful next time."
With the commotion settled, the group returned to the table, refocusing on the task at hand. Plans were finalized, letters were drafted, and arrangements were made to visit the neighbouring island. The air buzzed with anticipation as the King and his advisors discussed the potential benefits of the newfound partnership. Prince Ryder's excitement was palpable, his eyes alight with eagerness.
"This alliance will bring prosperity to Berk and strengthen our ties with neighbouring lands," King Ragnar stated, his tone filled with certainty.
Prince Ryder nodded in agreement, his hand clenching into a fist. "I will ensure that Berk thrives in its new home."
Prince Valentine hummed in approval, his mind already spinning with ideas for the future. The prospect of new beginnings and untapped opportunities fuelled his ambition. As the hours passed, the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the library. The flickering candlelight illuminated the determined faces of the King, his sons, and Stoick, united in their mission.
Whilst the King and Stoick met with Princes Ryder and Valentine, the people of Berk were exploring the streets of Draconia.
The bustling streets of Draconia were filled with the sounds of merchants haggling, children playing, and the occasional dragon roar in the distance. Astrid Hofferson led the way, her hair shining like a flame in the sunlight as she weaved through the narrow alleys and crowded markets with ease. Snotlout Jorgenson, never one to miss an opportunity to show off, swaggered beside her, his booming voice drawing attention wherever they went.
"This place is amazing! Can you imagine the kind of loot we could bring back to Berk?" Snotlout exclaimed, eyes gleaming with greed.
Fishlegs Ingerman, always the voice of reason, chuckled softly. "Let's not get ahead of ourselves, Snotlout. We're here to learn from the Draconians, not plunder their city."
Valka Haddock observed the surroundings with a keen eye, her expression thoughtful as she took in the architecture and the way people went about their daily lives. Trader Valknut, their guide for the day, led the group with a confident stride, his eyes twinkling with mischief as he pointed out various points of interest. As they walked, Barkeep Torvi, a jovial man with a booming laugh, handed out mugs of ale to the guards who followed discreetly behind, ensuring the safety of the visiting royalty. Suddenly, a loud crash echoed through the streets, followed by screams of panic. Astrid's hand went to her weapon instinctively as she scanned the area for the source of the commotion. A group of unruly dragons had knocked over a cart, sending produce rolling in all directions. The merchants shouted and tried to shoo the beasts away, but to no avail. Without hesitation, Astrid sprang into action, her movements fluid and precise as she approached the dragons with a calm yet commanding presence.
"Easy there, big fella," she murmured, her voice soothing as she locked eyes with the lead dragon, using a language only a dragon trainer like her could understand.
The dragon rumbled in response, its aggression fading as it bowed its head in submission. The other dragons followed suit, sensing Astrid's authority.
Snotlout gaped in awe, forgetting his earlier greed as he watched Astrid effortlessly calm the chaotic situation. "That was amazing," he muttered, a newfound respect in his tone.
Fishlegs nodded in agreement, admiration shining in his eyes. "Astrid truly has a gift with dragons. It's like they speak to her in a way we can't even imagine."
Valka smiled softly, pride evident in her gaze as she observed her apprentice's mastery over the creatures. "A true dragon whisperer indeed," she murmured.
With the dragons pacified, the merchants thanked Astrid profusely, offering her baskets of fruit and vegetables as tokens of gratitude.
Astrid waved off their thanks, her humility shining through as she accepted the gifts with a nod of appreciation. "It's all in a day's work," she said with a small smile.
The group continued their exploration of Draconia, each interaction with the locals deepening their understanding of the vibrant culture and the unique bond between dragons and humans.
Along the way, they witnessed dragon races, dragon-riders soaring through the sky, and even a display of dragon fire-breathing techniques that left them all in awe.
As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the city, Astrid turned to her companions with a gleam in her eye. "This has been an incredible experience. I think we have much to learn from the Draconians."
Snotlout nodded, a newfound respect for the dragon-riders evident in his expression. "I never knew dragons could be so... majestic."
Fishlegs scribbled furiously in his notebook, his mind already spinning with ideas for new dragon training techniques inspired by their observations in Draconia.
Trader Valknut grinned, his eyes twinkling mischievously. "Perhaps one day, the people of Berk will become dragon-riders themselves. Who knows what the future holds?"
Barkeep Torvi raised his mug in a toast. "To new beginnings and friendships forged in fire and sky. May our paths cross again, dear friends."
Laughter and cheers filled the air as the group raised their own mugs in unison, a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect binding them together. And as they made their way back to the Royal Estate high in the cliffs, the echoes of their laughter mingled with the distant dragon roars, creating a symphony of harmony that rang through the city of Draconia. For in that moment, as the sun set on a day of discoveries and revelations, the people of Berk and Draconia stood united, their hearts open to the endless possibilities that lay ahead. And so, the bonds of friendship and understanding grew stronger, paving the way for a future where dragons and humans could coexist in peace and harmony, each learning from the other in a beautiful dance of connection and mutual respect.