Chapter 7: Gathering of Chiefs.
About a month has passed since Astrid had gone her first flight with Stormfly in the dense forest of New Berk. Over the month, New Berk had grown to just about double their size. People from other islands nearby wished to see the marvels of their new home. The month was also a good chance for Chief Stoick and High King Ragnar to discuss a marriage between King Ryder and Astrid Hofferson.
After getting back from his meeting, Stoick had announced that the tribes of Berserker, Outcast, Meadhead, and Bog Burglars would be arriving in a few weeks. Our story continues as the entirety of New Berk watch the horizon as Berserker, Outcast, Meadhead, and Bog Burglar ships arrive with a small convoy of Isle of Night ships.
As all the ships arrive, the dockmaster sends them towards the new Great Hall of New Berk where they meet with Stoick.
Chief Stoick the Vast Haddock stood at the head of the long wooden table in the Great Hall of New Berk, his gaze sweeping over the assembled chiefs from the nearby islands. Spitelout Jorgenson, his fierce and loyal second-in-command, stood at his side, observing the room. Valka Haddock, Stoick's wife, sat gracefully in her chair, her icy gaze fixed on the entrance, where the other chiefs were expected to arrive. Chief Dagur of Berserker Island entered first, his sword belted at his side and a cocky grin on his face. He nodded curtly to Stoick before taking a seat at the table. Chief Mogadon of Meadhead Island shuffled in next, his eyes darting nervously around the room as he took his place among the other chiefs. Chieftess Bertha of Bog Isles entered with a flourish, her colourful robes swishing around her as she made her way to the table, a regal smile on her face. Chief Alvin of Outcast Island arrived last, his hooded eyes betraying nothing as he settled himself in his seat, his fingers drumming restlessly on the table. As the chiefs settled in, a hush fell over the Great Hall, broken only by the crackling of the fire in the hearth.
"Welcome to New Berk my friends, I hope the journey wasn't too stressful?" Stoick began, his deep voice carrying across the room. "It's been too long since we last spoke, and much has changed since then."
"Aye, that it has," Dagur interjected, his tone bordering on impatience. "The journey was fine Stoick, almost took a couple of ships out, but we made in one piece anyway."
"That is good to hear." says Stoick continuing on. "We're here to discuss the recent developments in our lands and to ensure that we continue to work together for the greater good of our people."
As the discussion turned to the logistics of setting trade routes and protecting the villagers, a shadow fell across the entrance to the Great Hall.
All heads turned to see King Ryder of Isle of Night and Lord Commander Harald of Draconia standing in the doorway, their expressions unreadable.
Stoick's grip tightened on the edge of the table, his jaw clenched as he saw the newcomers. He had been expecting their presence at this meeting.
"Welcome, King Ryder, Lord Commander Harald," Stoick said. "I see you have also made it."
"Yes chief Stoick, I am thankful you had invited me along to this meeting. Harald is part of the High King's convoy, sent as a Royal Envoy to keep watch and note down what occurs here today." says King Ryder stepping forward, his expression calm and composed. "In saying that, my father the High King of Draconia wishes to gift each leader here."
A murmur rippled through the room at this unexpected offer, the other chiefs exchanging uneasy glances.
"And what gifts would these you speak of be?" Dagur asked, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword.
King Ryder smiled thinly. "Just the chance to prove our loyalty and work together for the greater good."
Stoick's eyes narrowed as he considered the offer, weighing the potential benefits and risks of accepting help from the Isle of Night and Draconia.
"Very well," Stoick finally said, his voice firm. "We accept these gifts."
"We knew you would, which is why I King Ryder Ridaris of the Isle of Night, hereby declare that each chief in this hall shall receive the gift of new ships." says King Ryder taking his seat with Harald by his side. "One of these vessels has been prepared, if you will kindly look outside you will see what your villages will receive, these ships will allow for faster and safer travel in and out of the Maze of Spires."
"Aye, those tall rocks out there almost took our ships out." says Alvin looking around at the other table members.
"And you will be compensated." says King Ryder putting a map on the table. "Since Stoick and myself last met, we discussed exploring further to the East. So my father, brother, and myself sent a party of scouts in the Eastern direction, and when they came back we met a new ally."
"I didn't think that anything was to the East." says Dagur taking a look at the throne.
"Neither did we, and my family are from around here." says Ryder pointing to a new label on the map 'Arendelle'. "Our scouts had met with the Princesses of a kingdom called Arendelle. I have organised a meeting between my brother and their royal envoy."
"Why don't you meet with them?" asks Bertha looking at Ryder.
"Because my brother had a stronger claim to the Draconian throne than I do, that is why I was given the ruins of the Isle of Night." says Ryder. "It was my duty as prince to rebuild and make sure that the land returned to it's former glory."
The meeting continued for many hours, with the chiefs going back and forth discussing the village politics and news. After the meeting of the chiefs, everyone meets outside the hall where Stoick's second in command Spitelout gives the tour of New Berk.
"I can't imagine the amount of time it would have taken to build something like this. Must have taken you a while Stoick." says Chief Mogadon looking at all the huts along their path.
"Actually it only took us about a month. Luckily we don't have any raiders coming through burning the place down." says Stoick walking along the path.
"It shows, the designs here are like nothing I've ever seen." says Dagur looking at a tall wooden post with signs hanging off the sides.
"We got the idea from the Isle of Night. Everything they had reminded us of what we wanted to achieve." says Fishlegs gesturing to the rest of the village.
"So, I forgot to ask chief Stoick. Where will we be staying?" asks Alvin looking around. "I am assuming you will allow us to explore your new village?"
"We may have had to relocate to a different island, but that doesn't mean that we forgot the old ways." says Stoick gesturing towards a large stone ring by the shoreline. "You will be staying in the Tavern until you choose to leave and head back to your islands."
That night inside the Tavern of New Berk, once everyone else has gone to sleep, Chief Stoick and Chief Mogadon sit together at the bar.
"So, what's new with you?" asks Mogadon putting his mug of mead on the bench.
"What could you mean, Mogadon?" asks Stoick taking a sip from his mug.
"Meeting with not one but three Kings?" says Mogadon. "Someone's had a busy few months."
"Aye, we met them at the Northern Markets... I'd sent Astrid a small crew of others to gather materials and food, and they ended up meeting Prince Ryder when he stopped one of his soldiers from killing a trader." says Stoick looking at Mogadon. "Then the following morning after they got back, we were awakened by a loud horn. Turns out they had someone follow Astrid back. But they invited us to Draconia where we met with the King, he promised us the land of an island surrounding the Isle of Night."
In the dimly lit tavern of New Berk, Chief Stoick and Chief Mogadon sat across from each other, nursing mugs of frothy ale. The fire crackled in the hearth, casting flickering shadows on the wooden walls. Stoick's weathered face bore the marks of battles fought and won, while Mogadon's rugged demeanour hinted at a past filled with daring escapades.
As they clinked their tankards together, Stoick's deep voice broke the silence, "Remember the time we faced the giant sea serpent off the coast of Meadhead Island, Mogadon? That was a battle to remember."
Mogadon let out a hearty chuckle, his laughter filling the tavern. "Aye, that beast certainly put up a fight! But we showed it who's boss, didn't we, Stoick?"
Stoick nodded, a gleam of pride in his eyes. "Indeed we did. And let's not forget the time we rescued the stranded travellers from the treacherous cliffs of Skullcrusher Peak. We were hailed as heroes that day."
Mogadon raised his mug in salute. "To the heroes of Skullcrusher Peak! May our legends live on!"
The tavernkeeper, a stout man with a bushy beard, approached their table, wiping a tankard with a rag. "More ale, gentlemen?"
Stoick and Mogadon exchanged a knowing look before nodding in unison. "Aye, more ale, my good man. Tonight, we celebrate our victories!"
As the tavernkeeper bustled off to fetch their drinks, Stoick leaned in closer to Mogadon, his voice dropping to a lighter tone. "But not all our memories are of triumph, my friend. There are dark times we must not forget."
Mogadon's expression grew serious as he nodded. "Aye, there have been losses and sacrifices along the way. The path of a chief is fraught with challenges and heartache."
Stoick's gaze drifted to the roaring fire, his thoughts a whirlwind of past battles and fallen comrades. "I still hear the screams of our warriors on that fateful day at the Battle of Blackwater River. The clash of steel, the cries of the wounded... it haunts me still."
Mogadon placed a hand on Stoick's shoulder, a silent gesture of camaraderie. "I understand, my friend. The weight of leadership is heavy, but together we have weathered storms that would have broken lesser chiefs."
Their quiet moment of reflection was interrupted by the tavernkeeper returning with fresh tankards of ale, the frothy liquid sloshing slightly as he placed them on the table. "Here you go, lads. Enjoy the brew!"
Stoick and Mogadon raised their tankards in unison, the clinking of metal echoing in the tavern. As they drank, the laughter and hum of the tavern-goers surrounded them, a comforting backdrop to their shared memories of triumph and loss. And in that moment, as the fire crackled and the ale flowed, Stoick and Mogadon found solace in each other's company, knowing that no matter what challenges lay ahead, they would face them together, as chiefs and as friends.
A few days later, all of the visiting chiefs sailed from New Berk accompanied with a small fleet of Draconian ships to guide them home. After a long few days of showing the other chiefs around their new village, Stoick wanted so badly to lie down. Walking through the village, he sees what no other chief in the archipelago had ever accomplished before; long lasting piece with their neighbours.
The next night, in the candlelit Great Hall of New Berk, the air was thick with anticipation. King Ryder Ridaris stood tall and regal at the centre of the room, his gaze fixed on the beautiful Astrid Hofferson. Her parents, Gunhild and Sven Hofferson, stood by her side, exchanging nervous glances as Chief Stoick The Vast Haddock and Chieftess Valka Haddock observed from their thrones.
"Chief Stoick, I have come today to ask but one thing," King Ryder's voice boomed, echoing through the hall. "I come before you today to ask for Astrid Hofferson's hand in marriage and to unite our kingdoms."
Astrid's heart raced in her chest as she fought to maintain her composure. This was a proposal she had never expected, and she found herself torn between duty and her own desires. She stole a glance at her parents, hoping for a sign of what to do. Gunhild's hands trembled slightly as she clasped them together, her gaze flickering between her daughter and the imposing figure of the King. Sven stood tall, his expression unreadable as he watched the scene unfold.
"I understand your end goal King Ryder, but I cannot give you answer, only Astrid can. "Says Stoick giving his answer and looking towards Astrid and her family. "What is your point of view Astrid?"
Astrid gathered her courage. Finally, she spoke, her voice soft but steady. "Your Majesty, I am honoured by your offer, but I cannot give you an answer at this moment."
Gasps of surprise rippled through the Great Hall, followed by whispers and murmurs. King Ryder's brows furrowed slightly, but he maintained his regal composure.
"And why is that, Lady Astrid?" he inquired, his tone a mix of curiosity and authority.
Astrid took a deep breath, her heart pounding in her chest. "I need time to consider such an important decision. My duty to my village and my heart are in conflict, and I must find a way to reconcile them."
King Ryder's expression softened, a flicker of understanding crossing his features. "I see. You are a woman of strength and conviction, Astrid Hofferson. I shall grant you the time you need to come to a decision."
The tension in the room eased slightly, though the weight of the decision still hung heavy over Astrid and her family. Gunhild let out a soft sigh of relief, while Sven's gaze remained fixed on his daughter, pride and concern warring in his eyes.
As the Great Hall began to empty, Astrid felt a hand on her shoulder. She turned to see Chief Stoick The Vast Haddock looking down at her with a knowing smile.
"You have a difficult path ahead, Astrid," he rumbled, his voice a reassuring presence. "But trust in your heart, and you will find the way forward."
Astrid nodded, gratitude welling up within her. She knew that the decision before her would shape not only her own future but the destiny of both kingdoms. And as she watched the sun set over New Berk, she knew that the answers she sought lay within her own heart.
About a week later the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the Great Hall of New Berk, King Ryder Ridaris stood anxiously awaiting Astrid's reply. The hall buzzed with the sounds of merry chatter and the scent of roasted meats wafted through the air, creating an atmosphere of celebration.
"Astrid, my love," King Ryder began, his voice steady but his heart pounding in his chest. "Have you thought any further on the matter of becoming my queen?"
Astrid's eyes shone with unshed tears as she gazed at King Ryder, her heart overflowing with love and joy. With a radiant smile, she threw her arms around him, her answer clear in the embrace. Sven Hofferson, Astrid's father, let out a proud chuckle, clapping King Ryder on the back. Gunhild Hofferson, Astrid's mother, wiped away a tear of her own, her face glowing with happiness.
Chief Stoick The Vast Haddock, a towering figure with a kind heart, stepped forward, his voice booming in the hall. "A joyous occasion indeed! Let us celebrate the betrothal of King Ryder and Astrid!"
The hall erupted into cheers and applause, the sound echoing off the wooden beams of the ceiling. Tankards clinked together in a toast to the happy couple, laughter bubbling up like a spring.
Valka Haddock, Chieftess of New Berk, embraced Astrid warmly, her eyes filled with affection. "My dear, you have made us all so proud. King Ryder is a lucky man indeed."
Astrid blushed prettily, her cheeks pink with happiness. "Thank you, Chieftess. I am truly blessed to have found love with King Ryder."
King Ryder's heart swelled with joy as he held Astrid close, his mind already spinning with plans for their future together. He knew that they would face challenges ahead, but with Astrid by his side, he felt invincible. As the celebrations continued into the night, the hall filled with music and dance, the melodies weaving through the air like a tapestry of sound. Couples swirled around the room, their laughter mingling with the strains of the lute and drum. In a quiet corner of the hall, King Ryder and Astrid stole a moment alone, their gazes locked in a shared promise of love and devotion. The flickering torchlight cast their faces in a warm glow, the shadows dancing across their features.
"Astrid, my queen-to-be," King Ryder murmured, his voice soft with emotion. "I cannot wait to spend the rest of my life with you."
Astrid's eyes sparkled with unshed tears, her hand reaching out to touch King Ryder's cheek. "And I with you, my king. Together, we will forge a future filled with love and happiness."
As they leaned in to share a sweet kiss, the world around them seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them in a bubble of blissful contentment. The echoes of their laughter filled the hall, a symphony of joy that reverberated through the night. And so, in the Great Hall of New Berk, amidst the revelry and merriment, King Ryder and Astrid Hofferson sealed their love with a promise that would endure for eternity. The future lay before them, a blank canvas waiting to be painted with the colours of their dreams.