Chapter 217
Hiccups POV:
I groaned as the sound of waves crashing rung in my ears before I slowly pushed myself up and shook my head as I spat out sand from my mouth. I looked around and found myself on a beach, surrounded by crystal balls that I recognized from the ship except now there was a glowing orange orb next to me. I groaned and rubbed my head to both to get the sand out of it and soothe the dull ache that was throbbing in it, probably due to being thrown into the wall. I looked around at the beach as I asked myself.
"What in the world happened?" I didn't expect anyone to answer so I got a fright when a voice from behind me said.
"You taking Edward out is what happened." I immediately turned around and was greeted by the sight of a smiling Hermes and I bowed.
"Lord Hermes, it is good to see you again but what brings you to this island." He walked up and gestured to the orbs around us.
"These orbs are what brought me here." I raised an eyebrow. "You see Hiccup, we've been wanting to take down Edward for a long time but we couldn't mess with him on that boat of his without endangering the lives of those on it but now that he's taken care of, I've been sent to gather up the orbs and take the people and creatures back to where they belong and any dangerous creatures are getting locked up." I nodded.
"Do you need any help gathering them up?"
"I'd like that." I smiled and began picking up the orbs together with Hermes but as I looked at one holding what looked to be a Lamia. "I have to say I feel bad about Edward, he was just trying to preserve the beauty of this world." Hermes sighed.
"It was his desire for beauty that caused all this suffering Hiccup." He then looked at me. "Not just for the loved ones of those he took but for the ones in these orbs themselves." He then held up one of the orbs. "Although they're trapped in these things, they're still aware of everything that's going on around them but can't do anything about it." My eyes widened in shock.
"So, they're prisoners in their own bodies?" He nodded.
"This power was only meant to be used against monsters, demons and villains but as time went by Edward grew greedy and wanted to hoard beauty for himself claiming he just wanted to preserve it but we gods know better." Hermes sighed. "And that is when he turned his back on all the gods he served." I frowned in thought.
"Hermes can I ask you something?"
"Sure, go ahead."
"Well is it possible to quit being a champion of the gods without turning your back on the gods." I heard him gasp and drop the orb he'd picked up right before he was in front of me as he asked.
"Where in the world is this coming from?" I sighed and looked down.
"It's just I'm scared that I'll eventually end up like the other champions." He raised an eyebrow. "Akuhei, Darce and Edward, all champions who were corrupted by the power they were given." A look of understanding appeared on Hermes face.
"Hiccup, I know you, you're not like those guys."
"But what if I become like them and tread down a dark path like theirs." Hermes placed a hand on my shoulder.
"Hiccup, I can't tell you what your future holds but holding onto this fear is going to cause you a lot of trouble in the future so you should let go of it." I shook my head.
"It's not that easy Hermes." I sighed. "It never is." I shook my head. "Just forget about it, we have to finish collecting the orbs since I'm sure those trapped in them are dying to get out after being imprisoned for so long and I'm pretty sure my wives aren't going to be too happy if we make them wait for long." He nodded but as we gathered the orbs, I could feel his eyes on me before my eyes landed on the orange orb. "Hermes!" He turned to me as I picked up the orange orb, but I noticed a strange glow in my prosthetic as I did. "What's this orb?" Hermes ran up to me and examined it before smiling.
"That's the core of Edwards ship." I raised an eyebrow. "Remember that orb that connected you to your own ship after taking your blood?" I nodded. "Well it's like that except for the ship Edward used."
I nodded but before I could fully reply my prosthetic released my foldup ship that floated in the air before much to my surprise its structure came apart leaving only the ships core. The core of Edwards ship then floated out of my hand and towards my ships core before they slammed into each other causing a blinding light that made me turn away as bolts of lightning seemed to shoot out from the orbs. When the lightning stopped shooting and the light died down, I looked back up to see a single, shining white orb before I turned to Hermes hoping to get answers as to what just happened. He smiled as the orb came down to hover in front of me before he said.
"The core of your ship sensed the other core and the magic within the two of them were attracted to each other and merged together." I looked down at the white orb. "Don't worry about your ship, it's just going to go through a few modifications thanks to the magic of Edwards ship but it'll take some time to reform the body around the core so it's best to leave it be while it reforms." I nodded as my prosthetic pulled the orb into it and I could feel the magics pulse within it.
"Any idea when I'll have my ship back?" He shrugged.
"Hard to say as it depends on the magic since although the orbs may have joined as one, the two magics are still merging and that'll take some time." I nodded before looking around at the orbs.
"We better get back to work." He nodded as I began picking up the orbs and handing them to him.
5 minutes later
I took a breath and looked at the beach that was now clear of any orbs before I turned to Hermes who was smiling at me as he said.
"Thanks for the help Hiccup and great work defeating Edward." I smiled at him before I said.
"You're welcome Hermes, but what about my wives, dragons and animals?"
"Don't worry, I'll free them all when we get back to your island but we better hurry before your wives get angry." I nodded as he held out his hand which I didn't hesitate to take before there was a blinding flash and when it faded, I found myself standing at the base the stairs in front of my house. "Alright now that we're back let's get your wives and beasts out of these crystals."
He pulled out multiple crystals from the leather bag he had on his waist and threw each in the air before they floated and shined brightly as I covered my eyes. It was then the balls shattered followed by more bright lights formed out of the broken crystals taking various forms of those who Edward took from my island. Then the light burst from the forms as if it were a wrapping of some kind before revealing those Edward caught on my island including my wives, Toothless, Adal, his pups, Maelstrom and every mythical animal and rare dragon who called my island home. I was brought out of my shock when I noticed Astrid and Blanca begin to gently shake before they began to collapse so I quickly rushed up and caught them before their bodies hit the ground. I looked at Hermes hoping to get some answers before he said.
"They're fine, just unconscious but they'll need a little rest as will the rest of those who were rescued." I nodded.
"Thank you, Hermes."
"Well it's been nice seeing you again Hiccup but I've got to get back to Mount Olympus so I can begin distributing these orbs to the messengers of other lands so they can get the ones that belong to their land back to where they belong." I nodded and watched as he slowly rose up into the air before taking off into the sky as I looked around at all my unconscious dragons and animals and sighed.
"This is going to take a while."I then gently laid the girls down. "Better get to work." With that said I began picking up the girls and taking them to the bedroom.
Mount Olympus
Nobodies POV:
Hermes down the hall leading to the throne room where Zeus was sitting on his own throne, waiting for Hermes who bowed to the king of the Greek gods as he said.
"Lord Zeus, I have returned from the Archipelago and can confirm that the former champion Edward has been defeated by Hiccup Haddock and all those who were imprisoned in crystal have been either freed or are in my bag , waiting for pickup by the ones who shall take them back to their homelands." Zeus nodded before he raised an eyebrow.
"This news is good, but I can tell something troubles you Hermes."
"It is something Hiccup Haddock said to me that worries me lord Zeus."
"What could he have said to you, a god, that would cause such worry?"
"He asked me if there is any way to give up being a champion of the gods without turning his back on them." Zeus's eyes widened as he stood up.
"Did he give you the reason for asking such a question?"
"He discovered Edward was once a champion and fears he to shall fall to the darkness that has consumed the champions who have come before him." Before Zeus could reply a voice from the entrance way said.
"You really cannot blame him for his worries as the only champions he has encountered in the past are Akuhei, Darce and Edward who all fell to the darkness for their own reasons." Both gods turned to see who the owner of the voice was and saw a fox walking down towards them before Zeus asked.
"And what brings you to my realm little fox?"
"I can sense my daughter and kept track when she was taken by Edward so when she was brought here, I knew something was going on and came to investigate and overheard what's going on." Hermes then said.
"Yeah and to make matters worse I don't think there's a way to help Hiccup through this issue." The fox smiled.
"Actually, I believe I have a solution." They both looked at the fox in curiosity. "Best not to ask but know that this will help Hiccup to remain on the right path and aid him in coming battles." Zeus sighed and nodded.
"Very well, but you should first discuss this with the Norse gods as he is one of their subjects?"
"It has already been done and they have agreed with the solution." They both nodded before the fox turned to Hermes. "I would appreciate it if you returned my daughter to me now, lord Hermes." He smiled and pulled out an orb before offering it to the fox.
"Here you go, she'll be free as soon as you get home." She nodded.
"Thank you, lord Hermes." She gently picked the orb up in her muzzle before giving one last bow before leaving the room as Hermes turned to Zeus.
"Do you think her plan will work."
"I do not know but I hope it does as Hiccup has the potential to be one of the greatest chosen." Hermes just nodded.
"That he does lord Zeus." He then looked at his leather bag. "I better get these ready for our coming guests." Zeus nodded before Hermes left.
Nightfall
Hiccups POV:
Night had fallen over my island and I was looking forward to goodnights sleep since after waking up on the beach this morning I was looking forward to waking up with my wives' arms on me instead of sand. Who could blame me though since after Hermes left me to clean up the mess left by Edward; I had a major headache knowing things were not going to be easy. I was proven right when those who were taken by Edward woke up but fortunately, they all saw what happened between me and Edward along with all that happened afterwards. It was because of this that I got multiple licks and nuzzles from my dragons and animals who were grateful to be free again before my wives dragged me away to ask me about the kids. When they mentioned the kids, I used my automatons and found them on Berk with my parents who were doing their best to comfort them, but I could tell they were trying to keep it together, themselves.
After I told the girls this, we immediately took off to let everyone know we were alright and of course to let them all know what happened between me and Edward. When we got there the kids immediately went for their mothers but I couldn't blame them as the last time they saw their mothers was when Edward was taking them away and I was also embraced by my parents who nearly bruised my ribs. When they pulled away my father began pelting me with questions followed by my mother doing the same but fortunately my kids cut them off by running up and hugging me while thanking me for bringing their mothers back to them. Once all the hugs and thanks were done, we all headed up to the great hall for breakfast and so I could tell everyone what happened with Edward. After showing everyone what happened not only on the ship but also on my island I had to go through the question and answer session but fortunately this time I wasn't alone as both Astrid and Blanca were forced to join in the session. When that was all done, I spent the rest of the day helping everyone who was taken by Edward settle back in while also cleaning up the remains of his crystal creatures.
Now I was lying in bed with my wives cuddling up to me in their sleep as I stared up at the ceiling since sleep did not come easily to me as my mind kept drifting to Edward and my talk with Hermes. My mind kept swirling to the thought of me falling to the darkness and destroying all that I love in a quest quench an endless thirst for power or a desire for something that I can never obtain. I knew I was probably just overthinking things like I normally did but still I couldn't stop thinking about it so all I could do for now was close my eyes and try to get some sleep.
Island where Edwards ship crashed
Nobodies POV:
A hooded figure walked across the beach looking around before stopping in a single spot before he kneeled down and began digging in the sand. Eventually the sand parted to reveal the shattered crystal shards making him smile as he scooped them up from the ground and held them up to the moons light and smiled as they shined before he said.
"Although this will require some reassembly the crystal shall make an excellent piece in the revival of my master." With that said he walked down the beach and into the darkness of the night.
3 days later
It's been three days since I got my family back from Edward and in that time not much has happened since I hadn't been able to shake the nightmares and fear I felt about becoming like the former champions I've encountered. I've tried to clear my head through spending time with my family and throwing myself into my training, but it's done me no good since I still feel the fear and it's affected my training under my ninja. This is something they noticed so my training under them has mostly consisted of meditation and breathing techniques since most of their combat training needed a calm and clear mind. My family also noticed my worry and tried to help me relax in various ways like taking me along for picnics, cooking my favorite meals, having me play with the kids and in the case of my wives, have some fun in bed at night. Sadly, although I enjoyed all of these things nothing freed my mind from the worries I felt or the nightmares of me going down one of the paths the other champions that plagued my mind.
Now I was in my training room wearing just my pants while practicing my duel wielding using Pirus and Ventus as I worked up a good sweat while Brant tried copying me using wooden swords. It was then Astrid and Blanca walked in and I lowered my blades when I saw the looks of concern on their faces before I asked.
"Is something wrong girls?" They looked uneasy before Astrid turned to Brant and said.
"Brant, you go take some time off from your training and go play with Chara in the garden." He nodded and took off after putting his wooden swords down while I turned to my wives before Blanca said.
"Hiccup, we are worried about you." Astrid then continued.
"You've been pushing yourself hard and we know you haven't been sleeping so well." I smirked.
"I'm pretty sure you two have added on to that last problem." Blanca blushed as Astrid looked annoyed.
"Hiccup, we're not joking around." Blanca then said.
"We would like to know what it is that has been bothering you these past few days." I sighed.
"It's just that I've been worried about my future since my battle with Edward." I clenched my fists. "I've been worried that I'll become like the former champions and go down a dark path that'll lead to the suffering of a lot of people before it leads to my own destruction." A look of understanding formed on their faces but before they could reply a voice said.
"And that is why I am here." We all turned to the corner where the voice came from and saw a fox walk out of the shadows making me sigh in annoyance.
"What are you doing here?" The fox frowned.
"You don't sound so happy to see me."
"Because last time you kidnapped me and brought me to a distant land where I was sent on a journey to battle a demon lord who stole my prosthetic and god made weapons before our final encounter where he blew up in my face and took my eye out."
"To be fair it was the only way for you to retrieve what was stolen from you." I nodded.
"Yeah but you could've told me before you abducted me from Gothi's hut since that lead to a me needing to give a very long explanation to my parents." She giggled.
"I know but for now I believe it best we get introductions out of the way as I believe the two young women would like to know who I am." I took a breath and nodded as I turned to Astrid and Blanca before I gestured to the fox.
"Astrid, Blanca this fox is-"I paused and turned to the fox. "Actually, I never did get your name." She giggled.
"It's Asami and just for the record, I am not a fox but a Kitsune." She raised her tail and eight more appeared next to it. "I just prefer to keep my other tails hidden when not in private." She made them disappear again before she turned to the girls and bowed her head. "It is nice to meet you both and I congratulate you both on doing something that the master of the dragon forge thought impossible." We all looked at her in curiosity. "You got this man to take his mind off work and actually settle down to enjoy life a bit." I groaned as I looked down while the girls giggled.
"Why are you here anyway?"
"I heard about your worries of the future and came to help." I sighed.
"Thanks for the offer but I doubt you could help me with this issue." Asami nodded.
"Indeed, I cannot but I know someone who can." I raised an eyebrow. "He is a great warrior who simply goes by the title 'Ancient One' and although he is a bag of wind most of the time, he can help you through these issues." I shrugged.
"At this point, I'm willing to try anything." She smiled. "So when should he get here."
"I am afraid meeting him is not that simple Hiccup."
"What do you mean?"
"If he is to help you then you must first prove yourself worthy by going on a journey of self-reflection to reach his temple." Before I could reply Astrid asked.
"Will he be gone long?"
"It depends on how well he does on the journey but the place he is going is in a different realm like the one where he studied under Master Shen or when you studied under master Xiao Chi."
"You mean those scrolls where a year passes in them but only an hour passes in the real world?" Asami nodded before I asked.
"So, I could be gone years and it'll only be a couple of hours for my family?"
"Indeed, but it is hard to say for you may possibly gone for days as this journey will not be an easy one."
"Can't be any more difficult than my journey to beat Akuhei."
"I am afraid this journey may prove more difficult for you Hiccup as the only thing you will be allowed to bring is your prosthetic and a leather satchel of food and water." My eyes widened.
"So, no weapons?"
"And no armor as you will only be allowed to wear what I have brought for you for this journey." I sighed knowing this journey would be a whole lot harder than I expected, so I took a breath to calm my nerves.
"Alright, when do we leave?"
"Whenever you are ready."
"If that's the case then give me some time to pack some rations and say goodbye to my family." She nodded.
1 hour later
It's been an hour since I reunited with my old friend Asami and that time has been filled with nothing but goodbyes, whines and nuzzles since I was going to be gone for who knows how long. Now I was in the entrance hall wearing nothing but normal black ninja attire that had a nightfury on the back of it, that was given to me by Asami, a leather satchel on my back holding a few days' worth of supplies and in front of me were my wives, kids and Toothless. Sadly, little Chara was in tears while Brant was doing his best to comfort her telling her that I'll be back in a few days at most while trying to hold back his own tears. I looked down at Asami and said.
"Alright Asami, let's go." She smiled before I blinked and then when I opened my eyes I looked around and found myself standing on a dirt path in a forest.
"This path is the beginning of your journey, follow it and the way shall be clear as time goes on as will the lessons you need to learn to defeat the enemy you have come to face." I nodded.
"Thank you Asami." With that said I began making my way down the path before I realized what she said about an enemy I was facing and turned to ask her who she was talking about, but she was gone making me sigh. "I hate it when she does that." I took a breath and looked at the path. "Well better get going." With that said I took off down the path.
4 hours later
It's been four hours since I began my journey down the path and that time has mostly been peaceful with me not running into any issues other than the need for me to climb up a cliff to continue the path. Now I was on a snow-covered mountain, making my way down the path that had been covered in snow while wondering what enemy Asami was talking about. It was then I came to a giant valley in the mountains pass but what caught my attention wasn't the landscape but the two large creatures who were as tall as elephants, standing in it. I knew that they might not be a threat, so I continued making my way down the path until I reached them which is when they stepped in front of me as I examined them.
They were both very large ape like creatures with white fur covering their bodies except for their faces, hands and feet, revealing their dark blue skin. They were also wearing armor that reminded me of the armor the warriors of Japan wear in the books I read but this armor was a darker shade of blue than their skin and only covered their bodies and none of their limbs. The larger of the two was nine feet tall with fur around his mouth resembling a long beard while the other was seven feet tall and had fur on just his upper lip forming a long mustache. The larger one stepped forward and asked.
"Why do you walk this path?"
"I am on my way to the temple of the ancient one to meet with him."
"Why do you wish to meet the ancient one."
"My friend Asami told me he might be able to help me with my worries." They frowned before the smaller on said.
"You are but a child, the ancient one will never help you so go home." I glared at them.
"I've not come all the way here to just turn around and leave and if I have to fight you to continue on my journey then I won't hesitate." The big one smirked.
"Very well little boy but you shall not claim victory." I just glared as I put my leather satchel down and got into my battle form.
Nobodies POV:
Hiccup charged at the larger of the two creatures and dropped to the ground sliding between its legs hoping to be able to attack it from behind but the other one saw this and slapped Hiccup away the second he got through the legs. Hiccup sat up and growled as the bigger one said.
"It makes sense that a child would use such a childish trick." Hiccup stood up while growling and charged again before jumping into a forward kick aimed at the smaller ones knee but the yeti grabbed him by his outstretched leg and lifted him up to his heads level so he was eye to eye with Hiccup who struggled to break free when he said.
"As expected of a child to throw a tantrum when he doesn't get what he wants." Then once again Hiccup was thrown into a large pile of snow and stood up groaning from his strike in the head but before he could react the larger yeti picked him up by the back of his shirt as he asked.
"Did you learn anything little one." Hiccup raised an eyebrow as the yeti put him down.
"Was this meant to be a lesson?" They nodded before the shorter yeti said.
"There is much conflict in your soul which leads to much anger." The taller yeti then said.
"A warrior who fights in anger instead of channeling their anger can never win any battle." Hiccup took a breath to calm his mind and nodded.
"That is true." They each then stepped aside.
"Follow this path until your shadow is in front of you and then turn right and continue down the road and you will arrive at the home of the ancient one." Hiccup nodded and bowed to them in respect which they returned before he picked up his satchel and made his way down the path that they told him would lead to the temple of the ancient one.
7 hours later
Hiccups POV:
It's been seven hours since my defeat at the hands of the giant creatures and since then the only thing that's happened is, I'd left the snow-covered peaks and entered a baron wasteland. Fortunately, it was nearing nightfall and because of that, the heat had cooled down a bit which brings us to now, with me walking down the path in the light of the setting sun while lost in my own thoughts about what the creatures on the mountain said to me. As I was walking past a small stack of rocks, I was brought out of my thoughts by someone saying.
"Good afternoon!" I quickly turned to the voice while getting into my battle stance but saw nobody. "Down here!" I looked down and much to my surprise saw a man who was the same size as Gothi, very fat with a short braided beard, a long ponytail tied at the bottom, wearing a straw hat, open red vest and a purple sumo diaper with what I recognized as wooden geta shoes. "Do you always respond to people's greetings with a fighting stance?" I lowered my arms and bowed to him in greeting.
"Sorry, I thought you might be an enemy." The old man frowned.
"You crazy if you think this old man is enemy." I frowned. "What are you doing all the way out here in the middle of nowhere?"
"I am on my way to meet with the ancient one." The old man gently stroked his beard.
"Oh, you are going to the temple he resides in?" I nodded. "I understand your reason for being here now but why in the world do you want to meet with that old wind bag." My eyes widened in shock before I took a breath.
"A friend of mine told me he might be able to help me with some problems I've been having lately." He chuckled.
"It's not hard to see your mind is in chaos and the various parts of your soul are in conflict."
"So, I've been told."
"And you think that old bag of bones can help you?"
"I'm hoping that he can."
"Well if you're looking for the temple, he calls home, then I can take you there." I smiled.
"I'd appreciate it."
"Nothing in this world is free though, you want my help then give me money, you got jewels than give me jewels." I sighed since I should have expected this.
"I'm sorry but I don't have any form of currency on me."
"You got food, give me food."
"Well I have some dried meat, dried fruit and some water." He stuck his tongue out in disgust.
"Food for stick people." Since he wasn't going to eat my food, I rubbed my chin in thought thinking about what else I have.
"I do have some biscuits my wives made me before I left."
"You got biscuits?" He began bouncing up and down like a child. "Give me biscuits!" I reached into my satchel and pulled out the small bag of biscuits which the old man quickly began to dig into while eating the biscuits he pulled out of the bag.
"So, you'll take me to the temple where the ancient one lives?" He nodded.
"I will but only tomorrow as it is nearly nightfall so it better to set up camp for the night and get fresh start in morning." I nodded. "Now prepare a fire as the nights in the desert are very cold." I sighed in annoyance getting the feeling that this would be a long journey to the temple.
Afternoon the next day
Last night had not been the most pleasant night under the stars as the old man wasn't much for conversation and farted the whole night meaning I had to sleep while holding my breath. Following this he woke me up at the crack of dawn claiming it was a long trip and we needed to get going early if we were to make any progress on the journey to the temple. Along with all this, halfway through the journey across the wasteland he had me carry him on my shoulders which I didn't have a problem with at first but then he began farting again, so I ended up feeling filthy.
Now I was making my way through a dark cave in a mountain that the old man claimed possess' an exit at the back before rushing off down it while yelling out that he'd meet me at the end. I didn't mind though since it gave me some time to myself and a chance to breath fresh air again without the old man polluting it with his gross gas. Still despite me being able to go through this cave alone I couldn't shake the feeling that I wasn't alone, as if I was being watched by someone who was giving me a look I did not like. It was then the sound of laughing echoed through the cave but since it was dark, and I was forced to leave the eye of the dragon at home I couldn't see who it was that was laughing. I did know two things though and that it was not the old man who was laughing since I'd heard him laugh and this one was different and the second thing was this laugh sent uncomfortable shivers up my spine, so I kept my guard up.
It was then something grabbed onto my left leg and I quickly kicked it up throwing whatever it was off me and into the wall before looking at the figure. Although it was dark, I could see the figure was about the size of a child and had a horn coming out of its head before it chuckled and ran off into the darkness. Knowing it would be better to get out of this cave than staying in the cave to pursue whatever that thing was I sped up my pace and rushed down the path I could barely make out in the darkness. I didn't get far though since a creature fell from the ceiling and landed on my shoulders before it began pulling my hair while chanting.
"USELESS HICCUP!" I growled as I reached up and grabbed it by the waist before throwing it off me as I looked around hearing multiple laughs from everywhere and knew I was going to have to fight my way out so I got into my battle stance and prepared to fight.
Nobodies POV:
Hiccup stood still trying to see where the next attack would come from before one of the creatures attacked him from his blind spot on the left and grabbed onto his leg and latching onto the material that made his pants. Hiccup quickly threw his leg up throwing the creature off towards a stone pillar with the knee of his pants but instead of hitting it, the creature held its arms out and swung around it to throw itself back at Hiccup. Before Hiccup could react, the creature delivered a hard-flying kick into his stomach making Hiccup cough and kneel as the air was knocked out of him while the creature jumped back and chanted.
"NEVER BE WORTH ANYTHING!"
Hiccup growled and stood up before charging at the silhouette of the creature who just chuckled and jumped out of the way as Hiccup punched resulting in him punching a stone stalagmite with his real hand. Hiccup immediately pulled it away and began shaking it in pain as two more of the creatures grabbed onto Hiccups arms and each pulled away from him, ripping the sleeves off his shirt. Hiccup looked at them as they hid behind a pillar while waving the sleeves in their hands and laughing at him while he growled in annoyance and rubbed his aching hand. Hiccup ran at them as fast as he could as they disappeared behind the pillar again but when he reached the pillar, they were no longer behind it. It was then they dropped from above revealing that they'd been using the stalactites to hang from the roof of the cave, so they'd get the drop on him. They kicked Hiccup in the back, pushing him face first into the pillar before coming to land behind him as he turned around and glared at them, but it was then one who was slightly taller walked between the two and asked.
"What did you learn?" Hiccup raised an eyebrow.
"The sneak attacks were meant to teach me something besides punching stone is a good way to hurt your hand?" They laughed before the one on the right said.
"The lessons are one who is fighting himself cannot fight an enemy easily." The one on the left then said.
"If you wish for victory than learn to use your surroundings and use them to your advantage." It was then the one in the middle spoke once more.
"And do not allow your opponent's taunts to get into your head as it makes you vulnerable and sloppy." He then stepped aside. "Continue down this tunnel for fifteen steps and turn right, go down the slope and you will find the exit where your, travelling companion is waiting for you." I nodded and bowed to the three which they returned and then made my way down the path towards the exit and getting there didn't take long but when I did, I saw the old man smiling at me as he asked.
"Did you have a good time with the caves inhabitants?"
"Don't ask, let's just keep going as I'd like to make it out of this wasteland before the end of the day." The old man nodded before joining me in walking away from the mountain.
5 hours later
It's been five hours since we left the cave and that time has been spent thinking about what happened in that cave and of course holding my breath due to the old man having gas while riding on my shoulders. Now it was to sunset and we were making our way through a bamboo forest that the old man claimed rested near the temple of the ancient one. It was then we came to a small clearing with a couple of moss-covered stones standing around it but there was something off about it that I couldn't put my finger on. I just shook it off as I sighed and took the old man off my shoulders and said.
"Let's set up camp here for the night since it'll be dark soon." The old man nodded before I got to work on gathering dried wood to make a fire.
1 hour later
It was nightfall and I was now sitting on the ground in front of the fire while the old man sat across from me cross legged on the ground while smiling which was a change from earlier when I picked up some dried plants from in front of one of the stones to start the fire. It was then I was brought out of my thoughts by the sound of moaning from around us as a cool wind flew past as I stood up and got into my battle stance. It was then masked men who wore armor I'd seen in the books I'd seen in drawings of the warriors of this land in books I'd read in Akuhei's library and knew they were called samurai. It was then the old man said.
"I believe these spirits have business with you." I looked around ready to fight as they unsheathed their katanas.
"Any words of advice?"
"Only two." I looked at him. "Give up and apologies."
I looked at him as if he were crazy but then had to quickly drop to the ground as a sword was swung at my neck in an attempt to decapitate me. I tuck and rolled away from the spirit as another one rushed at me and swung his sword at me, but I ducked below the blade while wishing I one of my weapons with me. I then stepped to the side in order to avoid a downward strike from another samurai spirit while glaring at the old man who just sat there, smiling at the flames. It was then another samurai came at me and tried to cut me by delivering a slash at my chest but I quickly stepped back to avoid the blade only to hit the standing stone that I didn't notice was behind me. I waited for the samurai to strike me but instead it just stood there as the others surrounded me and stepped aside to allow a single samurai spirit to walk forward. I saw this one was wearing blood red samurai armor with helmet that had a V shaped gold piece above the forehead and a red mask with an open mouth that was frowning and a white mustache above it while the eyes were like black empty voids.
I knew there was no winning against them, so I turned around as he approached and tried to climb the rock by grabbing onto the moss but only succeeded in pulling it off the stone. As I did though I saw there were words engraved onto the stone and then what the old man said and the samurai spirits attacking me made sense. The standing stones were graves of the samurai and the dried plants were offerings left to honor them and by burning them I'd disrespected them. I turned back to the samurai spirit who'd pulled out his katana and dropped to my knees with my head bowed before he raised his katana to bring down on me until I said.
"I surrender!" His blade stopped afoot away from my head. "I did not mean to disrespect any of you, I simply did not know these stones were graves or the dried plants, offerings as the moss covered the words upon your graves but if you should spare me, I shall clean the moss off so nobody will make the same mistake."
They all stared at me before sheathing their swords and sinking into the ground except the one in the red armor who simply crossed his legs and floated in the air with his katana sitting in his lap. Knowing what he was waiting for I began cleaning off all the moss from the nearest grave before giving a small prayer and moving onto the next one.
Half an hour later
It's been half an hour since I began scraping moss off the graves and now, I'd just finished up the last grave and turned to the samurai before bowing in respect as I said.
"I thank you for allowing me to fix my mistake noble samurai." It was then for the first time, the spirit spoke.
"There is no shame in admitting to one's mistake nor is there any shame in surrender when you know there is no chance of victory and then leaving to fight another day." When he finished saying this he sunk into the ground before I made my way back to the fire and sat down across from the old man.
"You knew the dried plants I was burning were offerings, didn't you?" He smiled.
"Of course, I did, why else would they be in front of graves?"
"You could've warned me." He just smiled.
"Now where's the fun in that?" I just growled and threw another log onto the fire.
Morning
Once again, I was on the path leading to the temple of the ancient one with the old man leading the way through the rock covered mountain range that had come after the bamboo forest. It was then we came to the steep side of a tall mountain that was so steep I was looking straight up it looked like the side of a tall cliff instead of a mountain side. I looked down at the old man and said.
"Please tell me the temple of the ancient one's temple is not at the top of this mountain." He smiled.
"I would but I prefer not to lie." I sighed and ran a hand through my hair.
"This could take a while." I then cracked the knuckles on my real hand while cracking my neck. "Good thing I continued to practice my climbing despite my spiderpack being able to do the climbing for me." It was then I turned to the old man. "I'm going to have to carry you up there, aren't I?" He smiled.
"Well surely you don't expect this old man to climb up on his own, do you?" I sighed and picked him up before putting him on my shoulders.
"Just do me a favor and try not to let loose gas when I'm climbing as it's quite a climb and I'd rather not fall to my doom due to the need to cover my nose." He chuckled.
"No promises." I rolled my eyes before I began climbing the cliff and knew this was not going to be an easy climb.
1 hour later
It's been an hour since I began climbing and that is all I've been doing the entire time, climbing the side of the mountain with a small, chubby elderly man on my shoulders. To describe this time in a single word, exhausting would be the correct word despite my prosthetic lifting a bit of the burden since it didn't get aches and my past training to enhance my strength and climbing abilities. Now I pulled myself up one last time and found myself at the top of the mountain before dropping to my knees as I took the old man off my shoulders and said.
"That was exhausting."
"Maybe next time, you should just use the stairs." I looked at him as he gestured to the side revealing a stairway on the side of the mountain before I turned to him and growled.
"Why didn't you tell me about the stairs before I began climbing?" He shrugged.
"It was not my place to tell you where you need to go and to be honest, I was curious to see how long it would take you to reach the top." I gasped.
"If I had the strength, I'd slap you so hard."
He just chuckled and stepped aside to reveal an open wooden door, built into a stone wall that was surrounding a large courtyard that lead to the temple with two towers on either side of the path to the entryway, a dark red curved roof with grey walls. I looked at the old man as he pointed towards the gate and said.
"The temple of the ancient one." I nodded. "He waits for you within the walls."
He then took off running down the stone path and through the gate and through the temple doors with me following before we came to a large stone garden. This garden had five walls around it, each with a small patio that had an entrance built into the walls behind them with three steps leading into the courtyard on the left and right sides, a small roof above the patio that had red pillars holding them up and at the front of each roof was a different symbol with each looking familiar but I couldn't place my finger on where I'd seen them. Above the entire courtyard was a red roof that was being supported by red pillars, holding it above the wall and allowing a view of the sky through the cracks. Finally, in the center of the room was the stone garden filled with boulders that were spread out all over the place and in front of each gazebo was something different with one having multiple lit candles, one a small pond, one a small pile of boulders, one a simple hole that had dust spinning above it and one a few iron weapons. It was then the old man pointed to the garden as he said.
"Now it is time to face your most dangerous enemies." The boulders around the garden then began to float to the middle and form three separate piles that slowly took the form of statues of Darce, Akuhei and Edward before the statue of Darce stepped forward and said.
"We can smell your fear!" The statue of Edward then stepped forward.
"We see your future." The statue of Akuhei then stepped forward ahead of the other two and pointed at me.
"You are not worthy!" I growled and charged at the statue before jumping into a flying kick, but the statue grabbed my leg and swung me around before throwing me into to symbol on the roof of the gazebo above the rocks before I fell to the ground.
"You may claim that you have let go of your past where you were abused but you shall always desire revenge on those who wronged you." I growled at his words and charged at him again but the statue of Darce slammed into my side throwing me across the ground as it said.
"We know you desire the power of the gods and not the mere toys they give you." I glared at him and charger at the statue but before I could reach it the statue of Edward held an arm out in front of my face, making me slam into it.
"You wish to claim all the riches in the world, that is why you travel so much in hopes of claiming the riches from the lands you visit." I stood up and glared at them before I let out my battle cry and charged at Akuhei, delivering a strong punch to his face as I yelled.
"I AM NOTHING LIKE YOU!" I hit his face again cracking the stone. "I'VE LET GO OF MY ANGER FOR THOSE WHO HAVE WRONGED ME AND MY DESIRE FOR REVENGE!" I turned to the statue of Darce as the one of Akuhei stepped back before I charged at Darce and delivered a hard kick to the stomach. "I DON'T DESIRE POWER; I DESIRE THE ABILITY TO PROTECT THE INNOCENT AND MY FAMILY!" I hit him in the face cracking the stone before I jumped back and delivered a hard-swinging kick to the face of Edward. "THE ONLY REASON I GATHER THOSE DAMN ITEMS FROM AROUND THE WORLD IS TO ADD A LITTLE BEAUTY TO MY HOME AND SO MY TRIBE HAS A LITTLE MONEY FOR RAINY DAYS!" Both Edward and Darce's statues jumped back to Akuhei's sides as their faces crumbled and I gasped at what was beneath them because I was looking at my own face as the old man asked.
"If what you say is true and you are nothing like them than why do you continue to torment yourself?" It was at that moment, everything made sense to me as I lowered my battle stance and bowed to the statues who did the same before crumbling as I turned to the old man.
"I finally understand the reason for every hardship I have gone through on this journey." I then bowed to the old man. "Ancient one, I am truly honored to be in your presence." The man I now knew to be the Ancient One sighed.
"Well it sure took you long enough to figure it out Hiccup." I just stood up straight and smiled. "Now come on, I believe we have much to discuss but it best be done over tea." I nodded and allowed myself to be led away.
10 minutes later
I was in a large room that had stone walls, rice paper doors, grass weaved mats flooring, rectangular wooden support beams, a single potted tree against one, four unlit lanterns hanging from the ceilings wooden supports and a single fire pit in the middle that had a metal pot sitting over it with tea boiling within it while the Ancient One sat across from me and offered me a bowl of tea which I gladly took as he said.
"Now Hiccup, tell this old man what you have come to learn on your journey."
"I've learnt that I've become too wrapped up in worrying what I'll become in the future, that I'll become like those people who I've always done my best to stop and because of this I-" I was cut off when the Ancient One hit me in the head with a bamboo stick making me rub it. "What was that for?"
"For using too many words when you just need to explain it simply."
"By letting my concerns blind me I've become my own worst enemy." He nodded.
"Much better but tell me what is it that worries you?"
"Every former champion I've met has gone down a dark path at some point, turning them into villains and I'm worried I'll do the same."
"You need not worry about what may never come as you have those to help you stay on the right path." I smiled at him until he hit me again with the bamboo stick.
"What was that hit for?"
"That was for calling me a villain!" I raised an eyebrow.
"When did I call you a-" It was then it hit me as he smiled.
"That's right, I to was once a champion but now I am retired and have allowed younger generations to take on the title and all the responsibilities that come with it." I smiled at him. "I have much to tell you Hiccup about both the path you are on and about my time as champion but before I do." He looked to the shadows. "Would you five please come out of the shadows and greet your old master?" I looked at him confused until my ninja appeared out of the shadows making my eyes widen.
"You know my ninja?"
"Of course, I do since I am the one who trained them." My five ninjas came to sit down around the fire. "Now settle down and enjoy your tea and I shall tell you of how I came to adopt five young boys who became the ninja who now serve you."
1 year later
It's been a whole year since I arrived here in this land and every day of that year has been spent training in various ways under the Ancient One and my ninja, but it was all worth it. I'd learnt from the ancient one that the various styles my own ninja used were not taught by him but developed by my ninja themselves after he taught them the basics and advanced forms of ninjutsu so they could begin to develop. Because of this they'd been helping master ninjutsu so I would be able to develop my own style and combat moves to be used in battles and I had to say it was coming along slowly but I was still making progress in its creation.
The training though was extremely difficult since I had to go up against the creatures I encountered on the journey which I now know to be hibagon's in the case of the giants and trained amanojaku in the case of the creatures that attacked me in the cave. The sad thing was combat training against these creatures was the easiest part of the training considering what else the ancient one had me doing. To begin with he had me climb up a cliff through a rushing waterfall and then when I reach the top, I am to swim against the current till I've reached the small island where he is waiting which is fifty feet away. He also had me run up a mountain while multiple boulders are rolled down at me but what made this training difficult is I had to keep the same pace, never stopping until I reached the top and if I slowed down for even a second, I'd have to restart and he knew when I slowed down because he was on my back the entire time. Along with all this there was also how I had to run through an entire forest, at night, in the dark while keeping the same pace but not make a single sound.
The sad thing was that those forms of training weren't the hardest things he made me do but it was all worth it since my speed has improved to new heights as has my flexibility, stealth capabilities and of course my sense. I could now move through a forest at night without making a sound while also able to hear a leaf falling from a tree branch and split my legs in different directions so far, I could stay between two walls and hold myself up by them which is an ability I could use in cities. I'd also developed my own form of ninjutsu style I called, Vanishing dragon ninja style and developed a few new moves to go with it.
To begin with the moves I've created start with 'The Zippleback toss attack' in which I put myself in stance where my left foot is put back and my right foot is put forward while my arms are close together with my hands in a claw formation. My hands represent the Zippleback heads and as soon as my opponent comes up with a weapon high above their head, I thrust my hands forward, gripping the opponent's chest before I use my leg strength to lift them up. I then twist them around like a Zippleback twisting their heads around and then slamming them headfirst into the ground which will easily knock any normal man out.
The Thunderdrum pulse fist which is an attack that allows me to focus my strength into one single strike that is strong as a thunderdrums blast. I hold my left hand back as soon as an opponent is close to me and then thrust my hand in claw formation, squeezing my fingers to my knuckle but not forming into a fist. I then strike first with that form and then make a full fist as it strikes the opponent while channeling my strength, creating a pulse that enhances the power of the strike. This always knocks the opponent off their feet and sends them flying and leaving them either unconscious or seriously injured and out of the fight.
Finally, there is my Razorwhip whip kick which is a quick strike style in which I deliver blows that are so quick they're like a blur to the untrained eye. The way it goes is I do a roundhouse kick, but my leg moves way faster than usual and as it passes the opponent, I pull it back and push it back out seven times striking several spots. This was a move that I could not have developed without the training the Ancient One put me through to increase my speed to the point that I was half as fast when using my ox flame boots speed mode.
Then comes the Deadly Nadder Barb strike which is a major nerve attack I use on enemies that leaves them paralyzed or unconscious and out of the fight. This technique has my hands in a knife formation with two fingers out and in doing so I'm able to strike opponent like a nadders, hitting its Target with its spikes. These attacks are all aimed at various pressure points around the body since when struck in the right combination, they can bring down even a giant. Besides the training, halfway through the year my ship finally finished merging with Edwards and I was able to release it from my arm but the Ancient One had me put it away claiming I'd be free to ride it and examine it when my training was complete.
Now I was back in the same room where I told the ancient one about my problem but now I was wearing just my pants and eye patch while sitting on my knees across from the Ancient One with the ninja surrounding us but what was going on, I had no idea since all I knew was I was led into the room, sat down in front of the Ancient One and that's all. It was then the Ancient One finally spoke saying.
"Hiccup, a year has passed since you came here and yet you have never complained about missing your loved ones."
"I do miss them every moment I'm away from them but I knew it was best for me to remain here and fully heal my mind while also becoming stronger so I could better protect them and besides that Asami told me that although a year has passed here, less time has passed for them." He nodded.
"Those are wise words Hiccup; it shows me how far you have come in the time you have been here." I nodded. "And now it is time for us to part ways with you returning to your family with a gift from this old man." He snapped his fingers before Wind walked forward holding, folded clothing which the Ancient One took before handing to me. "These are the same clothes you wore when you arrived, but I have personally repaired them and now you are more than capable of using them to their full potential." I nodded and bowed to him in thanks. "Hiccup before I give you the next gift, I would like to know if you remember the tales, I told you about how ninja came to be and how these five came to be raised by me?" I nodded.
"The first ninja was a humble rice farmer who wished to rescue his family and fellow villagers from bandits who had taken over his village while he was out in the fields but knowing that should they know he was attacking them, his family would be killed he remained in the shadows when he attacked their base, using only farming tools he had." The Ancient One nodded. "Once his people were safe and the bandits defeated he continued to train and refine his fighting style, turning it into an art that was as beautiful as it was merciless, taking on followers as he did so who studied under him." The Ancient One nodded as he smiled. "As for how the ninja here came under your teachings, you were investigating a small village that had been burned down by bandits where you found them, hidden in a basement of a house and took them in out of pity and trained them to be ninja." He nodded.
"And it broke my heart when Akuhei killed them and then imprisoned and then enslaved their souls."
"You never did tell me why you didn't help them?"
"Because although I love my sons, the gods forbid me from going to their aide as they feared I to would fall to him and become a slave to the former champion." I nodded. "I'm just glad they were able to hide the weapons I gave them before he took their lives." I raised an eyebrow.
"You didn't give them the weapons they use?" He shook his head.
"No, I gave each a mystic weapon but once Akuhei trapped them they could not use them anymore as the weapons did not recognize them as their masters while they were enslaved to Akuhei which is a good thing or they would have had no trouble killing you when you first met them and Akuhei would be even more powerful." He shook his head. "Anyway, as I gave them weapons on the day they left to continue their training and perfect their own forms, I shall do the same with you, the man who saved my sons, became my student and my newest successor to the title of Champion of the Gods." He snapped his fingers before Iron stepped forward holding a single dark navy-blue sash which he handed to the Ancient One. "This sash may not look like much, but it has many enchantments on it to allow it the ability to supply you with an unlimited number of shuriken and makibishi." He placed his hands on two parts of the sash that glowed before he pulled his hand out to reveal a single nademaji shuriken in his right palm and a makibishi. "These weapons are not normal; they have powers which you shall have to learn about yourself." He put the shuriken back on the symbol before there was a small glow and it was pulled back in. "And along with this I have given it another ability." The Ancient One snapped his fingers again before Fire and Water stepped forward with a large chest. "I was also able to request a favor from Asami who was able to retrieve these from your vault." The chest was opened to reveal Pirus and Ventus, my kappa shell helmet, shadow sickle and ice claw rings. "I understand when travelling with them you keep them in what you have named, your spiderpack." I nodded.
"My prosthetic can only take in my god made weapons."
"And I believe it is a little inconvenient in battle." I nodded.
"A little."
"Well with my access to these weapons, I was able to make improvements to the sash and gave it a new ability in addition to being able to supply you with shuriken and makibishi." He picked up my shadow sickle and pressed it against the sash before there was glow as my sickle shrunk down and then got pulled into the sash. "This sash can hold all of your demon made weapons and release them whenever you wish." He did the same thing with each of my weapons before passing the sash to me. "Use it well." I nodded. "I will Ancient One." He smiled.
"Good, now while we wait for Asami to arrive, let us enjoy one last cup of tea together."
I nodded before he began preparing the tea while I examined the new sash and saw it wasn't like my third arm sash as that one goes around my waist; this one goes across my chest. In the middle of it was a meal seal of a nightfury like the one on my prosthetic hand or on the back of my ninja robes but this one was made of shining red metal and along with this, the sash had a black image of each weapon it absorbed, stitched into it. I gently pressed my hand against the shuriken and much to my surprise a shuriken was pushed into my hand and when I looked at it I saw it was a normal shuriken before I pushed it against the belt and let it get reabsorbed into the sash. I was brought out of my examination when the Ancient One said.
"Impressive isn't it?" I looked up at him as he offered me a cup of tea which I took as I replied.
"Indeed, but if you don't mind me asking, what's so special about the shuriken as it looked like a normal shuriken." He took a sip of his tea.
"Appearances can be deceiving but, in this case, it was a normal shuriken as that is the kind you summoned." I nodded. "In order to summon ones with abilities you must concentrate and keep practicing with the shuriken and makibishi." I nodded and smiled.
"Makes things more fun for me." He chuckled as I sipped my tea.
1 hour later
I was now dressed in my ninja attire with the shuriken sash around my chest, standing in the middle of the same stone garden where I fought the stone statues of the stone champions with my ninja standing behind me, Asami on my right and the Ancient One in front of me. I bowed to the Ancient One as I said.
"Ancient One, I can never thank you enough for not only helping me through my inner conflict but also opening up your home to me, training me in the way of the ninja, helping me develop my own form and for the new sash to store my weapons in." He just smiled.
"And I thank you Hiccup, for freeing my sons from that accursed demon and for breathing a little life back into this place as it has been many years since this old man last had someone to train." I smiled and gave him one last bow.
"Till next we meet Ancient One." He gave me a smile and bowed before I blinked but when I opened my eyes I was no longer in the Ancient One's courtyard but in the entrance hall of my own house and I turned to Asami. "You work fast." She smiled and nodded.
"That I do." I looked out one of the windows and saw it was nightfall.
"So how much time has passed in this place since I left to study under the Ancient One?"
"Well to you it has been a year but to them, we only left this morning and now it is early evening." I smiled.
"Good, it means I haven't missed supper." She giggled.
"Well enjoy and do try to stay out of trouble."
"We both know that's impossible as trouble seems to be attracted to me like dragons to fish." She chuckled.
"That is all too true." I smiled at her.
"Will you be joining us for dinner?"
"I'm afraid not as I have to get home to my daughter." I raised an eyebrow.
"I didn't know you had a daughter."
"She was one of the captives in Edwards collection until you freed her and for that I can never thankyou enough." Before I could reply I blinked and she was gone.
"I really need to ask her to stop doing that." I shrugged. "Well better go and see how the family is doing."Before I could begin using the eye of the dragon to look through the eyes of my automatons a small voice screaming.
"DADDY!" Followed by a small force running into my legs, hugging them and when I looked down I smiled seeing little Chara hugging my legs. "YOU'RE HOME!" I smiled and gently picked her up, hugging her as I did so.
"Yeah, I'm back home little lady."
"Did the man that Asami took you to see help you get better?" I smiled.
"He did sweetheart and a lot more but I'll tell you and Brant all about it at dinner." I gently adjusted my grip on her. "Now where's your brother and your mothers?"
"Brant is in the training room while mama Blanca and mama Astrid are getting dinner ready." I smiled but before I could reply Astrids voice called out.
"DINNER TIME!" I gently bounced Chara.
"Let's go eat sweetie and let everyone know I'm back and better than before."
AN: And that brings an end to another chapter with a special thanks to Red Dragon Emperor who helped me write this chapter and came up with the new ninja moves and name for this style of ninjutsu. Anyway, I'm a little stuck on what to do next so if you have any requests on what you'd like me to put in next than pleas just let me know and I'll see if I can use it for the next chapter. Until then please remember to review kindly and have a nice day.
