A/N: Alright, we're gonna take a quick break from the smut and get into the story here, don't worry, it'll just be for one chapter then it's back to some smut with some new characters. This story is getting a lot of followers on , if you guys aren't supporting me on there and on AO3, it would mean a lot of you gave me support on those writing platforms. But anyway, here we are with the next chapter.
(Normal pov— England)
As if the Viking people had gone through enough what with plague, starvation, and renegades taking advantage of the chaos back in Scandinavia, the voyage to England was violent due to rough conditions at sea and foul weather. Hiccup, however, refused to be defeated by the monster waves that threatened to devour the Scandinavian armada, so he had Toothless command the largest, strongest dragons to carry as many of the ships as they could, but only long enough to escape the waves that threatened to pull the people down into the crushing depths of the sea, a valiant effort, unfortunately, many ships were consumed by the sea as well as the people on board-- men, women, children, and elderly all snatched from Midgard and were now in the hands of Njǫrd. Despite giving proper tribute and making the necessary sacrifices to the gods of wind and the sea, it seems his appetite wasn't appeased, and he was unleashing his wrath on the Scandinavian people with harsh winds and stormy seas.
Despite the hardship at sea, Hiccup and his people managed to reach England after a week and a half of gloomy weather and violent seas. Now, sailing along the English Channel, Hiccup was on his warship and he looked to the nearest boats alongside his own, he could see his people were exhausted, not that he expected anything less, they all had to stay up for days to ensure none of them were at the bottom of the North Sea.
Hiccup had always sought to venture into the unknown and discover new lands and new dragons. It would seem the calamitous events in Scandinavia and on the North Sea had caused the young king's taste for adventure to turn sour, now he was burdened with making sure those that remained knew that he was sympathetic for their losses and they found a safe place to settle for the time being before venturing further into Europe and settle in Germany. The closest Viking stronghold was York, which has been in the hands of the Northman ever since the "Great Heathen Army" came to avenge the death of Ragnar Lothbrok. Since Hiccup had never been to England, he had to rely on Vikings under his command who had been to these lands, they told the young king that York is sited at the confluence of the rivers Ouse and Foss in North Yorkshire, England. With their destination agreed upon, Hiccup informed everyone under his rule that they would be settling in York for the time being and that they would need to prepare and face the Vikings occupying the stronghold there.
Though he held the title of "King of Vikings," Hiccup knew that he needed to further earn the respect of all the warriors under his command and get them to follow him without hindrance, they acknowledged him as a sound and strong leader, but he also needed to prove himself as a capable warrior. Besides, ensuring the armies under his command were kept in line was of the utmost importance, to ensure those who desired his title wouldn't gather good, strong, fighting men to their side and fracture the Scandinavian people. Fighting amongst themselves would only lead to destruction, and that was something Hiccup wouldn't allow, not after everything they went through in their homelands and on the sea.
He supposed the best way for the warriors under his command to blow off steam was to go out raiding, assuming the warriors under his command weren't too weary from their perilous voyage at sea. Again, his father's words of wisdom about the needs of many outweighed the needs of the few echoed in his mind, and Hiccup's eyes settled on his wife, Astrid, and their daughter, Zephyr, both of them were exhausted, as were all who stood as parents. First, they needed to settle and rest, then they could raid and further swell their coffers and resources.
While standing at the front of his warship, Hiccup looked to his left and saw movement along the river line, though dense forest prevented him from seeing far ahead, he knew they were being watched. While silently signaling Snotlout, Fishlegs, and Tuffnut from the three ships they and their families were in, the young king's eyes widened when he saw armored Saxons emerge out of the forest with bows in hand, they then let their arrows fly.
"SHIELD WALL!"
Hiccup's words filled the ears of all the Scandinavian refugees, while some reacted quicker than others, many more were struck down by the incoming arrows, and their arrow-riddled bodies collapsed onto the decks of the ships or into the river they were sailing along. In the chaos, Hiccup reached for his Gronckle Iron shield and quickly raised it to protect himself from several arrows that would've struck him in the chest. Although the warriors on each ship had the strength to defend both themselves and those who couldn't fight, however, the voyage at sea was taxing and everyone only had so much strength. To make matters worse, the Saxons had set up a chain tower, the chains were rising from the water and within five minutes, their ships would collide and the Saxons would only need to set fire to their arrows, burning them all alive.
Unless something wasn't done soon, Hiccup knew that he and his people would be slaughtered like cattle.
A plan suddenly hatched in the king's mind, one that would give him and his people the best chance of making it to York and into friendly territory.
"Toothless! Have Typhoomerangs set fire to the forest, burning our attackers in the process!" He then pointed to the chain toward the towers. "And have some Rumblehorns smash those towers to pieces or else we're all dead!" Giving his old friend a nod, Toothless let out a series of roars and barks at the dragons his rider wanted to unleash upon their Saxon attackers. Several Typhoomerangs that were in the air heeded the command of their king and descended on the Saxons before breathing waves of fire down upon them. Blood-curdling screams and the scent of burning earth and flesh filled the air, causing the Viking people to roar out in elation, especially the Hairy Hooligans, they had truly missed having dragons by their side once again.
As the Saxons manning the towers watched in horror as their brothers were reduced to ashes by the Typhoomerangs, they cried out in terror as several Rumblehorns charged, smashing through the towers like they were nothing, bringing them down along with the chain that was blocking their path. While sailing further up the river, Hiccup saw no further incursions from the Saxons, but he knew that he and his people would have to make landfall and lug their ships from the river and across Europe until they reached the lands they had agreed on settling in.
"Son, according to those among us that have been to England many times, they say we're nearing the Viking stronghold established in York," Valka placed a hand on his shoulder before gesturing to the land. "But we don't know if any more Saxons are laying in wait to kill us. We can't risk bringing the entirety of our people on land, those that are less able among us would be easy prey for the Saxons."
Acknowledging his mother's words with a grunt, Hiccup approached Toothless, climbed on his back, and cupped his hands around his mouth so that those sailing alongside him and the people on the ships sailing beside him could hear. "Those among you who are able, come with me! We need to make sure the way leading to York is secure, if any Saxon tries to stop us from reaching friendly territory, cut them down," he then patted Toothless on the neck before barking out over his shoulders. "Follow me!" Dozens of warriors disembarked from the longboats and warships while handfuls of riders followed their king once he and his faithful Night Fury were on the ground.
"Astrid, make sure order is kept here while we're gone," Hiccup barked out. "Should anything go wrong on our end, Toothless will send a distress signal."
"Right! Be safe!"
"You too!"
Now venturing into the forests, Hiccup and Toothless set out to make sure the path before them was safe for both their respective species. Those by Hiccup's side who rode dragons were Snotlout and Fishlegs as well as Gustav. As for the ground forces, the largest group of warriors following Hiccup and his fellow riders was led by Harald Haraldson, the leader of the Fairhair dynasty had been bloodthirsty, and there was no way was going to miss the opportunity to soak his blade with Saxon blood after the nightmare he and his fellow Viking brethren had endured at sea.
"Odin's beard, it feels so good to be back on dry land," Snotlout exhaled happily before turning to his cousin. "So, what's going on through that head of yours, cousin?"
Warming himself by the fire, Hiccup looked over his shoulder. "Right now, I want a warm bath and an equally warm meal before I go to sleep," he then smirked at Snotlout. "I see no one among us foolish enough to disagree with me. Perhaps you and Minden can share a bed."
Laughing, Snotlout shrugged. "Maybe we will, after all, the days at sea brought us closer than ever, and I see the way she looks at me. She can't handle all of... this," he gestured to himself with flexing his muscles. "Hahaha, Snotlout!" He then took his leave, causing Hiccup to roll his eyes but smile, he was happy to see the voyage at sea didn't bring Snotlout's ego down.
"Glad to see your cousin's ego is still intact."
Snickering at Gustav's words, Hiccup saw Fishlegs snicker too, Snotlout, however, gave Gustav an unamused scowl before turning back to Hiccup, his tone more serious. "Cousin, don't you think it's a risk that you're only bringing Harald Haraldson and a dozen handful of his men?" Urging Hookfang to walk alongside Toothless, Snotlout continued to voice his concerns. "You're brining a man who despises you because he believes you robbed him of his chance to become King of Vikings but he didn't bring enough men, the Saxons could have three times more men laying in wait for us. If you ask me, this seems like Harald is trying to get you and those loyal to you killed."
Turning to his stocky cousin, Hiccup said nothing before turning his eyes forward, his silence caused Snotlout to scoff in disbelief. "Fine, say nothing. But you know as well as the rest of us that Haraldson is a danger to us all, for he has considerable ambitions, he wishes to rule over all of us!" He spoke in a hushed tone but Snotlout still flinched when Hiccup glared at him to keep his voice down, lest Harald or even Saxons hiding in the forest hear him. "Look, while we're out here, this would be the perfect opportunity to be rid of the man who believes he should be King of Vikings. Why not kill him and say it was the Saxons that killed him, I doubt Haraldson would even be missed among his own—"
"I understand what you're saying, Snotlout, I do. However, killing the leader of the Fairhair dynasty so soon would be unwise, especially now. Besides, we're meant to be one people, though Harald has proven himself to be entitled, insufferable, and egotistical, he's under my rule and I will treat him and his people with respect," frowning at Hiccup's words, Snotlout was about to voice his displeasure, but the king spoke up. "However, if his current station and place in my kingdom are not satisfactory for Haraldson and if he whispers of betrayal and rounds up good men to stoop to treachery, then I'll kill him myself."
"A wise and just answer, Hiccup," Fishlegs smiled. "Though we're considered as savages and beasts to the Saxons, they don't know we can be civilized and deal with those among us who act out of greed or envy civilly." Looking over his shoulder to see Harald and his warriors behind them, Fishlegs turned back to Hiccup and murmured. "Do you have someone in mind to spy on Haraldson in case he'll plot against you?"
Hiccup was silent for a moment, he then ordered those accompanying him to stop, he thought he heard movement at his left. Turning in that direction, Hiccup pulled out his shield and activated the crossbow feature while loading a bolt and taking aim. Snotlout and Fishlegs shared a look and urged their dragons to get ready, Gustave too had Fanghook ready to reduce whatever was lurking in the forest into ash, Haraldson and his men had shields raised and weapons at the ready. The silence was broken when a large elk burst out of the dense bushes, startling the dragons and the Vikings, but laughter erupted from Haraldson's men as they watched the elk run off.
"Odin's beard, it's just an elk," Gustav chuckled to himself while taking a breath to calm his racing heart. However, when the Vikings thought that the elk would venture deeper into the forest, they were both confused and tense when they saw the animal being jerked back and collapsing on the ground, huffing and puffing heavily. "Uh, Hiccup, I don't know about you, but this is starting to feel like a trap." The king nodded in agreement with the now twenty-one-year-old rider. Gustav readied his shield and then murmured. "The Saxons must've been watching us ever since we sailed along the river, they must've seen how hungry we are. This is a trap."
"CHARGE!"
Suddenly, battle cries filled the air as Saxon warriors burst out of the forest and charged the Vikings that trod on their land. Harald and his men formed a circular shield wall as enemies closed around them and tried breaking their wall with the numbers at their disposal. Hiccup and his fellow Dragon Riders raced to Haraldson and his men in the center of their shield wall so that they could lay down fire and slow the tide of Saxons that tried overpowering them.
"Archers!" The warriors with bows and quivers quickly readied their arrows as more Saxons rushed to their shield wall. "Loose!" As they let their arrows fly, they struck each attacker either in the heart or right between the eyes, killing them instantly. Harald stood alongside his men in the shield wall, holding the Saxons back with all his guile and wit while cutting down and running each enemy that pressed him.
Raising his shield to block an incoming arrow, Hiccup saw Saxons on horses with spears in hand and they were set on breaking their shield wall and trampling them, he then patted his dragon and pointed to the enemy cavalry. "Toothless, plasma blast!" Leaping in the air, the Night Fury narrowed his eyes and fired a precise shot at the ground, the blast was big enough to send the Saxon cavalry flying in all directions. The Viking king then pointed behind them. "Fire!" Again, Toothless leaped into the air while spreading his bat-like wings, an intimidating tactic to frighten those attacking. Violet plasma exited the Night Fury's maw and struck the ground where more Saxon warriors were coming from, they were sent back and clawing at their bodies as they were enveloped in violet fire.
"Archers, to the left! And right!"
Haraldson's archers headed the command of their prince and spread out in the center of the shield wall, aiding Hiccup and his Dragon Riders as they were thinning the herd of Saxons. Suddenly, the wall was breached by a larger Saxon warrior and he rushed Hiccup and Toothless, he had a sword at the ready and cried out, eager to end the King of Vikings and Dragons. This large warrior was halted by receiving a sword in the back from one of the archers, the Saxon roared out in rage and agony before turning to the Viking and striking them down with his sword.
Snotlout decided he wanted to get hands-on, rather than simply letting Hoookfang burn this large Saxon alive. Reaching behind his back, Snotlout grabbed his war hammer and rushed the enemy warrior who was able to rip the sword out of his back. Letting out a cry of surprise and shock, the Saxon was sent sprawling to the ground when Snotlout swung his hammer and it connected to the large warrior's jaw, a sickening crunch filled the sounds of battle and bloodshed. Crawling away from the stocky Jorgenson, the Saxon tried reaching for his sword, but Snotlout placed a foot behind the back of the warrior's neck and then proceeded to bash their skull in, blood and gore flung up to wet his face and armor.
"HA! Not so tough now, are you?" Snotlout beat a meaty fist against his chest and barked out over the mayhem. "Snotlout! Snotlout! Oy! Oy! Oy!" He then cried out as more and more Saxons were breaching the wall since the Saxons were thinning the numbers of Harald's men with the archers they had hidden in the bushes.
Shouting out in rage and anxiety because of this dicey situation, Harald turned to his remaining warriors and barked out. "Circle in! Keep them out of the wall!" His warriors closed the wall while also dealing with the Saxons who managed to break through. Fishlegs cried out when a Saxon hurled a spear at him, the large Viking ducked the shaft, and the sharpened tip grazed his ear, drawing blood. Roaring in outrage that someone drew the blood of her rider, Meatlug fired a blast of lava at that Saxon, they screamed in excruciating pain as the Gronckle's lava chewed through his chainmail and melted off his skin like it was nothing.
Gustav reached for a crossbow kept in a compartment on Fanghook's saddle, he then drew the weapon out and took aim, and let the bolt fly, he smiled when it struck a charging Saxon right between the eyes, killing them instantly. The young Larson cried out when he ripped off of Fanghook, Gustav cried out in an effort to keep his attacker from driving their spear into his chest. The Saxon trying to kill Gustav cried out in horror when Fanghook wrapped his jaws around their throat, sinking his teeth into their flesh, and thrashed violently until the Monstrous Nightmare snapped the Saxon's neck backward.
Despite the best efforts of his fellow Vikings and the dragons by their side, Hiccup could see that they were being overwhelmed, they needed reinforcements. "Toothless, distress call!" Lifting his head, the Night Fury let out a plasma bolt and as it imploded in the sky, Hiccup knew that it was only a matter of time before help would arrive, they just needed to hold the line. "Hold the line! Glory or Valhalla!"
"Glory or Valhalla!"
With their morale boosted by their king's words, the Vikings and their dragons continued to stand fast and repel the Saxons attacking them. Among these Saxons was a Thegn who watched from afar as his men continued to press their attack, though he admired the fortitude and bravery of the Vikings, this Saxon noble knew that if his men overcame this group of Vikings and deliver the young man on the dragon that was black as night to their king, they would have dealt a great blow to this vast Viking army that had arrived in their lands.
Unfortunately for the Saxons, the Vikings had received their reinforcements, and their numbers were too much for the Saxons to counter. Leading the attack was Heather, who was perched on Windshear and a sizeable force of Berserker warriors attacked the Saxon flanks, running them down and forcing the noble leading this attack and the small handful of men he had left under his command to retreat. With the Saxons running in fear for their lives, the warriors under Haraldson's command roared out in euphoria while celebrating this victory.
"Yeah, run back to your king with your tails tucked between your legs!" Snotlout bellowed out while pounding his fist against his chest. "If you wanted to kill all of us, you should've brought an army!"
Wiping the sweat from his brow, Fishlegs chuckled. "Be careful what you wish for, Snotlout, this was only the first encounter we'll have with the Saxons while we're here in England, and it most certainly won't be the last," Snotlout merely blew a raspberry and saw handfuls of Wingmaidens by Heather and Windshear, among them, was Minden, who was finishing off a Saxon with her spear.
"Minden!"
Looking up to see Snotlout approaching, Miden retracted her spear from Saxon flesh and plunged the shaft into the ground before running to Snotlout with a grin. The two shared an embrace while also jabbing at each other with jokes and playful taunts. Hiccup smirked at the sight, he knew that his cousin had shared something special with Minden during the war with Johann, Krogan, and the Dragon Hunters, now the affection those two held only seemed to burn brighter and it threatened to turn into a raging inferno.
Heather and Windshear landed beside Hiccup and Toothless, the king looked to his second queen and gave her a nod of thanks. "Good of you to join us," his voice was laced with gratitude. "Your timing couldn't have been more perfect. It was getting dicey out here."
"Nobody is taking you away from me. I've lost my father, my home, and my brother. I won't lose you," she said firmly while grabbing the back of Hiccup's head and pressing her lips against his. He returned her kiss and grabbed the back of her head with one hand as well. Heather soon broke the kiss and rested her forehead against Hiccup's. "Nobody's taking you away from me." She repeated softly. Hiccup smiled and kissed her forehead caressed her cheek, giving her a nod, believing her words.
The tender moment Hiccup and Heather were sharing was broken when Haraldson approached, his face told everyone that he was eager for payback and more bloodshed. "These Christians think they can attack us and our people when we're weak and exhausted after a week and a half at sea? I say we sack their towns, villages, and the kingdom we've stumbled upon and show them the true might of Vikings!" Many of Haraldson's warriors roared in agreement, however, they were silenced when Hiccup looked in their direction and then back at the Fairhair dynasty's leader. "You disagree, Haddock?" He inquired with a raised eyebrow.
"I don't," Hiccup reassured. "However, we're all exhausted— the common folk, leaders, warriors, and dragons. We're in no position to fight, not now anyway. For now, let's focus on reaching York and bolter the Vikings occupying the city." Haraldson, nor anyone gathered wouldn't argue with such sound logic, and so everyone gathered awaited the command of their king. "Heather, you and your men signal our people on the river, tell them that the Saxons have been dealt with and that we can make our way to York," Heather nodded and urged Windshear to take to the sky, she also ordered her Berserkers to head to the riverbank and inform the others that it was clear to make landfall. "Meanwhile, the rest of us will get to work on transporting our boats to York, along with our supplies." Hiccup turned to each rider by his side and nodded at them, silently telling them to inform those who rode dragons to prepare and transport the boats off of the water.
As Hiccup and his inner circle led the way, the people were right behind them and the warriors protected their sides and rear flanks just in case more Saxons were laying in wait in the forests. The dragons roamed alongside the warriors as well while the bigger and stronger ones were carrying the ships full of supplies, livestock, and food stores. They had been treading through the English forests for hours now, but only to ensure that they reached their current destination without any further incidents or casualties.
"Ugh! How much longer?" Tuffnut groaned.
"Yeah, I feel like I want to sleep for a week!" Ruffnut groaned alongside her brother.
Looking over his shoulder, Hiccup reassured his friends concerns. "Our guides say that we're getting closer, just be patient, we'll be at York soon enough," he then added with a smirk. "Good things come to people who wait." His words caused the twins to share and look and sigh while keeping their eyes open.
Suddenly, the King of Vikings soon ordered everyone to halt, both man and dragons momentarily stopped their advance through the forest and the dragons carrying the ships gently landed on the ground to catch their breath and rest. The Vikings that had been to England many times that had taken the lead so that Hiccup and those that were unfamiliar with these lands could follow, they had forward scouts to go further and make sure the path was clear. Loud neighing of horses filled the air and those forward scouts soon emerged out of the dense forest and stopped beside Hiccup and Toothless, bowing their heads in greetings.
"Well?"
One of the scouts caught their breath before speaking. "York is still under Viking control, these people are remnants of the Great Army that the Ragnarssons commanded during their time here in England. The warlord in command is Thormod Hoskuldsson, he's a great warrior and strong leader," the scout then answered the king's unasked question. "Worry not, my king, Thormod welcomes all Viking people, he will not shun us."
"However, because of the vast numbers we possess, there may not be enough room in the city to harbor all of us," another one of the scouts said. "You'll have to decide how you want us to proceed in that regard."
Nodding in understanding, Hiccup spoke up. "Those among us that more weary than others will have the luxury of residing in the city while the rest of us make camp outside its walls," he then inquired. "What of the city's defenses? Are they strong or weak?"
"The city itself is well fortified. Thormod's men have even built walls outside the city, strong walls to keep the Saxons out, and there's more than enough space for us and the dragons to settle for the time being," one of the scouts reassured. "We've already had words with Thormod and he's eager to meet you." Nodding at his scout, Hiccup gave the command to continue, they followed the scouts just a little while longer.
Finally, Hiccup and his people reached York and were relieved to find that it was still under Viking occupation. The Vikings established here were astonished by the sheer number of Vikings, warriors, people, and dragons outside their city gates, the numbers Hiccup possessed stretched as far as the eye could see. Outside the gates of Yorks was Thormod and his personal guard, they were perched on horses and were just as astonished by the vast number of people and dragons under Hiccup's command. As they drew closer to York's ruler, the King of Vikings was able to quickly look over Thormod, the man was well built, his skin bore scars, proof that his life was that of hardship and war, there was a scar that ran along left side of his face and down to his neck, a trophy that he wore with pride. He had long, ebony hair that rested along his shoulders though he also had his hair in a manbun hairstyle, he also sported a well groomed beard. Many found his brown eyes to be intimidating because they seemed always glisten with the desire for blood and battle, but his lovers found them captivating. He wore sleek black, Lamellar Armor, dark brown leather pants, and black fur laced boots. The man favored silver, and so he wore thick upper arm bands around both his arms, he wore his sacred arm ring on his right wrist and he wore several silver rings.
When Hiccup and Toothless were within feet of Thormod and his horse, the King of Vikings gave nod in greeting. "Thormod Hoskuldsson, I presume?"
"Aye," he said firmly before smiling. "And you must be Hiccup Haddock III." When the young king nodded in confirmation, Thormod laughed boisterously, though not out of disrespect but in admiration. "I've heard of your reputation and fame, you and those who follow you are welcome here." He then gestured to the city. "Come! You and your people must be weary from your voyage at sea. We'll feast together and see to it that you, your people, and your dragons are provided for." Hiccup nodded and everyone under his banner followed him and Thormod as he led the way.
Having informed his people of that York itself wasn't big enough to hold Thormod's numbers and their own, Hiccup then gave the order for those who were most weary and less able among them to be brought into the city where they can replenish themselves and rest without fear of being killed in their sleep by Saxon blades. Meanwhile, the various Viking rulers and dragon sympathizers were to reside outside the city for the time being, some frowned upon this while others admired Hiccup for his generocity toward the common folk. To ensure that order was kept among the warriors, Hiccup charged Alvin with maintaining peace, the chieftain of the Outcast Tribe humbly accepted this honor and promised his king that no blood would be spilled among them.
"You've certainly taken the words of your father and applied them here, lad, he'd be proud of you."
Turning to Gobber, Hiccup smiled and gave a nod in thanks. "I want to honor the memory of my father every day, one way of doing that is tending to our people and making sure I don't abuse the power that was bestowed upon me,"
"Stoick would be proud of the leader you've been to Berk and now all people of Scandinavia, son," Valka smiled. "I know I am." Turning to his mother, Hiccup could feel his heart beat a little faster and warmth pool in his belly seeing Valka's radiating smile. He gave her a nod of thanks rather than voice words because his breath was taken away from him because of her.
He then scolded himself, he shouldn't be attracted to his mother, but he had been captivated by her the moment she revealed herself to him back at the Dragon Sanctuary. Shaking his head, Hiccup then turned to Astrid, his High Queen, who was breast feeding Zephyr at the moment.
"And how's our daughter doing?"
Smiling at the babe suckling at her breast, Astrid looked up at her husband and shrugged. "Hungry, as you can see," chuckling at his wife's words, Hiccup could tell when his wife was ready to sleep, and he was about to voice his concerns, Astrid, however, gave him reassuring look. "I'm fine. Once we settle, I'll sleep."
"Oh, I hear you, sister! Aside from a warm meal and bath, I'd kill to sleep in a bed of furs in a room warmed by fire," Ruffnut sighed dreamily. "Nothing sounds more appealing to me at the moment than that."
"Really? Not even having a go in a boar pit?" Tuffnut challenged.
Turning to her brother, Ruffnut snorted. "If I had the energy, but I don't," she then gave her brother a smirk. "Once I'm rested, we'll make a boar pit and go looking for some piggies in the forest." Snickering mischievously at his sister's words, Tuffnut nodded in agreement.
Upon entering the city, Thormod and his guards escorted Hiccup and those by his side to the castle where those of high standing among Thormod's numbers resided. The streets of York were bustling, common Viking folk were making repairs to various establishments, huntsman were returning with wagons full of rabbit, boar, or elk to provide food for the people within the city. Foreign merchants and traders were selling rare and exotic items ranging from silks, weapons, spices, and other antiquities. Slavers were present as well, offering captured men and women from around the world to the Vikings of York to do with them as they wished. The warriors under Thormod's command eyed Hiccup and his inner circle with awe and curiosity, not only did they immediately recognize the King of Vikings because he was perched on top of a Night Fury, but they were infatuated with his saga and fame.
"It appears my men are intrigued by you, King Hiccup."
Humming, the young king nodded at his host. "So it would seem," he then muffled his yawn with a closed fist and gestured to the castle. "If you don't mind, Thormod, my in-crowd and those among my people that are less able and wearier than the others would like food, warmth, and a comfortable place to sleep. The voyage here was unkind to us all, and once we're all rested, you and I can discuss about bringing your warriors into my fold and then uniting all he Viking settlements and tribes here in England under my banner."
"As you wish, King Hiccup," Thormod said with a nod. "That's a discussion I look forward to. For now, I'll see to it that you, your people, and your dragons are provided for." The warlord of York led his guests into the castle he and his best warriors resided in. Hiccup and Toothless parted ways for the time being, as did the other riders and their dragons, they followed Thormod and his men inside their temporary residence. "My men will escort each of you into a room that hasn't been claimed, once you've settled, I'll have servants provide you all with food and ale and warm baths."
Clapping, Ruffnut grinned. "That's what I like to hear. Thank you, my good man," he then turned to the warlord's men. "Alright boys, take me to my room, please and thank you." Thormod nodded at his men who looked at him for permission. With the blessing of their warlord, they then began escorting each member of Hiccup's in-crowd away to rooms.
"The room you, your wife, and child will have once belonged to the former lord of this city. It's untouched and the former sheets and linen the former lord slept in had been replaced with fresh, clean furs," Thormod reassured as Hiccup and Astrid entered the room. "Do with it what you wish, I'll see to it that food and a tub is brought to you." Both rulers of all Vikings voiced their gratitude to the warlord before he took his leave and allowed both Haddocks to settle.
Cradling Zephyr in her arms and gently patting her back after she had her fill of breast milk, Astrid sighed loudly. "By the gods, if feels good to be back on land after what felt like a lifetime out at sea," Hiccup hummed in agreement with his wife as he unstrapped his fur cloak around his shoulders and set it down on a nearby chair. As he began unfastening his armor, Astrid gave her husband a smirk. "So, now that you've established your harem, who do you have your sights set on next? With Heather, Elsa, and Anna as your first three Fair Queens, you'll have the undying loyalty of the Berserker and Arendelle Vikings."
"True. Both of those respective Viking kingdoms will be essential for us to maintain, especially since the Berserkers hold one of the largest armadas and armies in Norway and Arendelle has more supplies, more than enough to feed us if we reserve them until we reach our new home," Hiccup set his leather armor aside as well as his riding mask on a desk before satisfying his wife's satisfaction. "As for who I wish to bed next, that's a concern for tomorrow, all I want is to have a warm meal and bath before going to sleep."
"Fair enough," Astrid then sat on the bed and voiced her thoughts. "The days ahead of us will be long, hard, and perilous. Our presence here will cause the Saxons to unite and challenge us in battle. You know that, right?"
"Oh, I know, that's why its imperative that I have words with Thormod once I've regained my strength. He knows the Vikings settled in England and what kind of leaders they are," Hiccup too sat beside his wife and wrapped an arm around her. "Again, that's a concern for tomorrow. For now, we rest." Astrid nodded against his neck when Hiccup pulled her close, she closed her eyes and savored his warmth.
Eventually, food and ale were brought into their room, along with a crib for Zephyr to sleep in and a tub big enough for two people to bathe in. Thormod's servants arrived with buckets full of warm water and they provided the two Haddocks with bars of soap, ointments, and other supplies for bathing. After savoring the food and ale they had been provided with, Hiccup and Astrid stripped out of their clothing and entered the tub, Zephyr was in Astrid's arms, she too needed to be bathed.
"Oh, gods. This feels so good," Astrid sighed in delight as the warm water encapsulated her body. Zephyr giggled while splashing the water, causing both rulers to chuckle. "The water feels good, doesn't it, my West Wind?" Cooing at the future heir of the Viking people, Astrid began to gently wash her daughter while eyeing Hiccup, who too was washing, but also smiling at the sight of the two of them. Giving him an eyebrow in question, Astrid gave him a teasing grin. "What're you looking at?"
Shrugging, Hiccup replied while washing his arms. "I'm just admiring the sight of my wife being tender with our daughter. Is that wrong?" Astrid's response was a snicker, causing Hiccup to let out a mocking gasp. "You think being tender is wrong?"
"You know that's not true, babe," Astrid washed the top of Zephyr's head before looking her husband in the eyes. "Truthfully, I'm still getting used to being tender." As Zephyr played with soapy bubbles, Astrid shrugged. "Even after two years of being a mother, I'm still not used to it."
Hiccup reached out to his wife, caressing her leg underneath the water, forcing her to look him in the eyes. "I know. But we've had each other's back for years, raising Zephyr is just another challenge that you and I will face together," he then placed a tender hand on Astrid's face. "Do you believe me, Milady?" She closed her eyes and leaned into his touch while pressing a kiss against his palm before reopening her eyes and nodding at him. "Good. Now, let's finish washing Zephyr and put her to sleep." Nodding at her husband, Astrid felt her heart swell as Hiccup helped clean their daughter while also making her laugh with goofy faces. When the heir of the Viking people was clean, Astrid exited the tub and dried Zephyr off and put on one of her sleeping tunics, and gently placed her in the crib where clean, warm furs awaited. It only took a minute for Zephyr to go out, but the sight of her sleeping made Astrid smile, she then leaned down and pressed a tender kiss against her daughter's forehead.
"Thank the gods she's tired like the rest of us, or else putting her to sleep would've taken longer."
Chuckling at his wife's words, Hiccup watched as his soaked, naked wife strode back to the tub and sat right in front of Hiccup. "Now, with Zephyr asleep, we finally have time amongst ourselves."
"To finish bathing or to have sex?" He challenged with a smirk.
Returning her husband's smirk, Astrid rolled her eyes. "Just to bathe, neither of us has the strength to have sex right now."
"True. But there's pleasure in helping my wife wash away the stench of the sea and sweat," Hiccup had Astrid turn around so that she could lean back against him. "Allow me to wash you off, Milady." Astrid had no objections as Hiccup cleaned her body and hair. The warmth of the water lulled Astrid to the point where she nearly fell asleep in the tub. Chuckling at his drowsy wife, Hiccup kissed Astrid's cheek and murmured against her ear. "Go to bed, I'll join you shortly." Nodding at her husband, Astrid rose from the tub and dried off with one of the thick fur towels offered to her and Hiccup before she crawled into bed with a satisfied moan. Hiccup joined her presently once he was cleaned and after dumping the now filthy, grimy water out the window of their room.
"Oh, to sleep on a bed again after a week at sea feels amazing," Hiccup sighed as Astrid curled against him. Pulling his wife close, he then murmured against her hair. "I love you, Astrid."
Sighing happily against his neck, Astrid murmured back. "I love you too, Hiccup," she then pulled the thick fur blankets around them before yawning. "Sleep well." Soon, Astrid was fast asleep.
"You too, Milady. You too."
As Hiccup succumbed to sleep, he knew that now they had arrived in England, they would need to tread across the Saxon kingdoms and once more cross the sea before reaching Germany. By no means would this be a simple task, Hiccup was well aware that the Saxons would be threatened by their arrival, their vast numbers would only cause the Christian kingdoms to unite and attempt to destroy all Vikings established throughout England. If their enemies wished to put Vikings to the test, then they would be in for a rude awakening, they not only had numbers of warriors and dragons that were too many to count but they would also have the support of the Vikings settled in these lands, people who knew who ruled and what they're like. They had strength of numbers and knowledge, advantages that would serve Hiccup and his people well during their time here.
This was the beginning of the next chapter in Hiccup Haddock's saga, and he was eager to see what would await him here in this land.
(Winchester— Kingdom of Wessex)
Norbert the Dastard was within the palace cathedral, he had been at prayer for over an hour and he kneeled in front of an altar where a cross was placed in front of a color-stained window that allowed dusk's light to shine down on him. The burden of kingship weighed heavy on his shoulders and he was praying that the weight of his responsibilities would ease up.
Though Norbert may be regarded as a capable leader to some, the man was also insufferable. He wasn't a warrior and he was hardly a holy man, he only played the part of a holy man. He resided in opulence and comfort while many of his people toiled and suffered because of the increase in taxes or thanks to the Vikings. Either way, the people of Winchester kept themselves in line despite their crude opinions about their king.
Suddenly, Norbert's time of prayer was interrupted when one of his guards entered the room. "Lord Norbert, Thegn Alwin, and a clutch of his men have returned from York, Alwin has urgent news he'd like to share with you."
"Send him in."
Bowing his head, the guard allowed Alwin inside the palace cathedral: once inside, the man spoke. "My Lord King, I bring most urgent news. My men and I encountered a new Viking army along the river Ouse, this is without a doubt the greatest army of Vikings to ever arrive at our shores; their numbers are far too numerous to count, and not only do they have enough men to sack several kingdoms, but they also possess... dragons," Norbert turned to Alwin with skepticism but he was quick to reassure Wessex's king. "I swear to you, Lord, the heathens command dragons, of all shapes and sizes, their numbers are too many to count."
Cursing under his breath, Norbert contemplated a course of action before looking back at his thegn. "Send messages to each of the English kingdoms via carrier falcon, inform them of this new Viking threat. And send word to Heahmund, leader of the Zealots, I require the use of him and his God-fearing men to help England rid our lands of the heathens and the devils they command." The thegn vowed his head and took his leave. Alone once again, Norbert kneeled before the altar and continued praying.
If the Vikings truly did possess numbers of men and dragons as far as the eye could see, then the English people would need to unite and trust in God in order to defeat those who wished to take away their lands. The only words Norbert could say were four words, yet they were full of pleading and desperation.
"God, help us all."
A/N: Don't worry, for all you guys that are only here for smut, there will be plenty of smut. But I don't want to just write smut without telling the story as to why this is all happening. I hope you guys enjoyed the update and I'll catch you all in the next one!