A/N: Sorry for the wait, things in my life have kept me busy. Anyway, in this chapter, Hiccup and Astrid have some time as husband and wife, and the story picks up.
(Rome)
Prince Heahmund of the Roman Catholic Church kneeled at the altar of the holy church, the heart of Catholicism in Rome, and prayed. "In nomine Patris et Filii et Spiritus Sancti," he murmured, invoking the Holy Trinity. His heart was heavy with the burden of his mission.
The candles flickered, reflecting the turmoil brewing within him. Heahmund was a warrior priest, consecrated to God and sworn to protect the Church. The shadow of the pagan King Hiccup Haddock III loomed over Europe, a dragon rider whose very existence was a challenge to the sanctity and unity of the Church.
Heahmund looked up at the crucifix, its figure of Christ a reminder of sacrifice and ultimate strength. "Grant me the power to protect the faithful, Lord, to vanquish those who threaten Your kingdom on Earth," he whispered, feeling a surge of divine resolve rising within him. "The Vikings are but one of many pagan threats the Church faces. And I fear that in time, the pagans will bring us to our knees. But while you still give me breath, I will never allow these devil worshipers to defile these holy lands nor desecrate the Church itself."
Once more looking up at the crucifix, the Catholic prince pursed his lips and exhaled shakily. "As my new army sets off to strike down the Viking scourge, I pray that you would grant me and the men and women who fight for the cause of Christ the strength to slay every last man, woman, and child that is stained with devilry and paganism," nodding firmly, fierce determination and fanatical zeal coursed through his veins as he concluded softly. "May your will be done, Lord."
The echo of his prayer seemed to linger in the vast chamber, intermingling with the distant, muted chants of monks. Heahmund rose from his knees, his purpose clear and his spirit fortified. He would lead the charge against Hiccup and his Viking horde, defenders of an ancient faith that sought to undermine the foundation of Christendom.
As he walked out of the church, the golden light of dawn broke through the clouds, casting a divine glow on the cobblestones. He knew that a great battle lay ahead, but he trusted in God's will and the righteousness of his cause. And so, with a holy resolve, Prince Heahmund prepared to face his formidable adversary, ready to protect the sanctity of the Church at all costs. However, before reaching his horse, he was approached by Bishop Canus, a venerable figure clad in ornate religious vestments, gazed upon Heahmund with a sense of concern as well as determination. Canus was accompanied by the inner circle of the Roman Catholic Church as they gathered around the warrior prince, creating a sacred and imposing atmosphere. Cardinals and bishops, in their vibrant robes, chanted prayers in Latin, invoking divine protection and strength for the impending war the Church would bring to Hiccup Haddock III and his kingdom.
"Prince Haehmund, is this wise? You will soon be crowned as Pope of the Church, and you risk much by marching the army you have raised into battle—"
Turning to the bishop, Haehmund replied sternly. "The transfer of power can wait, the Viking threat cannot wait," he then continued in a dire tone. "If you have seen the threat these Vikings and their dragons pose, then you would understand why I do this. But alas, you do not."
Realizing there was no point in persuading Haehmund to change his mind, Canus raised his hands, signaling silence from those gathered around. The murmurs hushed as he stepped closer to Heahmund. His eyes, full of wisdom and the weight of his responsibilities, met the young warrior's gaze. "Heahmund," he began, "you are the sword of the Church, chosen by God to defend the faith and our people in Europe. As you go forth to battle, know that you carry not only the hopes of Rome but also the blessing of God."
He then slowly traced the sign of the cross on Heahmund's forehead with holy oil, a ritual symbolizing the sanctifying power of the Church. "May the Lord guide your blade and shield you from harm. May Saint Michael the Archangel accompany you in battle as you confront the forces that threaten our land and faith."
Heahmund, feeling the weight of his duty and the divine blessing bestowed upon him, bowed his head in humility. "I will not fail," he vowed. "I shall defend our faith and our people to my last breath."
The inner circle murmured their approval and continued their prayers, filling the air with a resonant chorus as Heahmund turned to leave. His armor gleamed with the reflections of dawn's light, symbolizing the light of God that would accompany him on his perilous mission.
As he mounted his horse and met his army outside of Rome's massive walls, the army straightened, ready to follow their blessed leader. The drums of war began to beat, and with a final glance back at the ancient city, Prince Heahmund led his army beyond the gates of Rome, determined to fulfill his sacred mission against Hiccup Haddock III in the name of God and the Roman Catholic Church.
(Germany— Viking settlement)
Hiccup was up before the first light of dawn, meticulously sketching out plans and diagrams on a large piece of parchment. His project to aid the Viking farmers in the German settlement was close to his heart, and his focus was unwavering, despite the early hours.
As the morning light began to filter into the Haddock home, Astrid stirred from her sleep, despite the tangle of limbs and other naked women in the massive bed they all shared, the Queen of Vikings knew that her husband was absent the moment she reached out for him groggily. She rose quietly, observing Hiccup's hunched figure at his desk. A fond smile spread across her face as she watched him work with such dedication. Determined to ease some of his tension, she tiptoed over to him.
Without a word, Astrid placed her hands on his shoulders, feeling how tight and knotted his muscles were from hours of strain. She began to massage gently, her fingers working to release the tension. Hiccup exhaled deeply, tilting his head back slightly to feel the full effect of her touch.
"Good morning, babe," she whispered, leaning over to place a soft kiss on the back of his neck, her lips lingering for a moment.
Hiccup turned his head slightly to catch a glimpse of his naked wife, his eyes filled with gratitude and love. "Morning, Milady. You're up early."
"You too," she replied with a chuckle. "And by the looks of it, you've been up for a while. How's the new project coming along?"
"It's a lot of work, but it's important," Hiccup said, rubbing the sleep from his eyes. "If we can get these plans right, it'll mean a lot for the farmers. They'll have an easier time adapting to the new land."
Astrid nodded, continuing her ministrations. "You're always thinking of everyone else," she cooed softly. "But don't forget to take care of yourself too."
Hiccup placed his hand over hers on his shoulder, giving it a gentle squeeze. "I'm lucky to have you to remind me," he said with a smile before looking to the other Fair Queens still sound asleep before quickly adding. "Them too."
After a few more minutes of her comforting massage, Astrid straightened up. "Why don't I make us some breakfast? You need your strength for all this hard work."
"That sounds wonderful," Hiccup replied, feeling more relaxed thanks to her care. "Thank you, Astrid."
"You're welcome," she said, placing one last kiss on his cheek before throwing a sleep dress on and heading to the kitchen to prepare a meal.
As Astrid busied herself, Hiccup returned to his work, but this time with a lighter heart. The love and support he felt from his wife gave him renewed energy to continue his task.
After preparing a simple yet hearty breakfast, Astrid set the table for both of them. The aroma of sautéed vegetables and eggs filled the air, a sensation that made Hiccup smile as he took a seat.
"I have to say, this looks fantastic," he complimented, eyeing the plate with appreciation.
"Thanks to Heather and Rapunzel for their kitchen lessons," Astrid replied, a playful smirk on her face. "I'm no longer a fire hazard in the kitchen."
They ate, sharing stories about their adventures and laughter echoing softly through their home. Hiccup couldn't help but admire how far Astrid had come, not just in the kitchen but as a partner and warrior. He loved seeing her confidence grow, both in her skills and in themselves as a team.
As they finished their meal, the atmosphere shifted slightly. The warmth and intimacy of the morning light streaming through the window, combined with their shared laughter, created a cozy cocoon around them. Hiccup reached across the table, taking Astrid's hand in his.
"You know," he began, his voice lowering slightly, "it's nice having these quiet moments with you."
Astrid looked into his eyes, her heart racing at the earnestness in his gaze. "I feel the same way," she replied softly, squeezing his hand.
The playful banter of earlier faded, replaced by an electric tension that hung between them. Hiccup stood and walked around the table to where Astrid sat, leaning in closer. He brushed a strand of hair behind her ear and watched as her breath caught in her throat.
With a gentle touch, he cradled her face in his hands, tilting her chin up so their eyes locked. "Astrid..." he murmured, his voice thick with emotion.
At that moment, the world outside faded away. Astrid leaned into his touch, closing the gap between them as Hiccup leaned in and captured her lips with his own. The kiss was soft at first, a sweet melding of their mutual affection, but soon deepened as they both leaned into each other, melting into the warmth of the moment.
Astrid's hands found their way to Hiccup's shoulders, pulling him closer as the kiss ignited a familiar spark. Their laughter from moments ago was replaced by a shared intensity, a silent acknowledgment of their bond that transcended words.
As they parted slightly, foreheads resting against one another, Hiccup whispered, "Let's take our time today."
Astrid smiled, her heart swelling at the promise in his voice. "I'd like that."
They shared another soft kiss, a promise of the intimacy that lay ahead, the morning stretching before them, filled with possibilities and the comfort of each other's presence.
Soon, their kisses grew more heated, their hands pawing at each other as they sought to keep each other as close as possible. Nipping at her husband's lower lip, Astrid grinned at him before taking Hiccup's hand and leading him to the chair his father occupied when he was Chief of Old Berk. Once the King of Vikings was seated, he watched as Astrid removed the tunic she had on and revealed her naked body to him, the firelight from the hearth and morning sunlight making her radiant, highlighting her muscles, scars from both battle and pregnancy, and the light freckles along her body.
"Has a man ever been so blessed to have a wife as divine as you?"
Smiling at Hiccup's words, Astrid kneeled before him and undid his pants. "Has a woman ever been so grateful to have a husband like you?" Her sentiments were well received by Hiccup, who gave her his signature lopsided grin. His mouth fell open and a sharp moan left his mouth as Astrid took hold of his cock and licked him from base to tip. She then traced a particularly long vein along the underside of his shaft with her tongue, and as he twitched against her, she laughed softly and pressed a kiss to his tip before taking him into her mouth.
"Yes, mmm, that's my girl," Hiccup groaned as he ran a hand through the soft, silky locks of her blond hair. Astrid smiled to herself, loving the praise her man gave her while she worshiped his cock, and the feeling of her short nails raking through her scalp sent pleasant tingles down her spine, causing her to moan and vibrate around Hiccup's cock. "O-Oh, Thor!"
Momentarily releasing him from her mouth, Astrid stroked him and winked. "You can call me Astrid, babe."
Laughing together, Hiccup helped Astrid remove the rest of his clothes and watches as she climbed into his lap before grinding against him, spreading her arousal along his cock. Hissing at the pleasant sensations, the two of them moved as one as Hiccup took his cock and held it in place Astrid's hands clasped her husband's broad shoulders and she impaled herself on his cock. Their moans entwined as they worked together to please each other, as they had long before Hiccup had become "Hiccup the Womanizer." As Astrid rode Hiccup, she looked down at him with hooded eyes and a warm smile, her love for this man was sometimes hard to put into words, he was the sun in her life, and not only would she kill anyone who attempted to wrest him from her arms but she would die for him without a second thought.
Despite their best efforts to keep quiet, Hiccup and Astrid let their pleasure be known, and their coupling woke the other Fair Queens from sleep, some of them snuck down the stairs to watch Astrid riding Hiccup as though he were a wild horse. Soon releasing that they had an audience, Hiccup and Astrid made a show of their lovemaking, displaying their love, trust, and care for each other like fine art that was being created, and it left the Fair Queens watching squirm in arousal.
"C-Close!" Hiccup said through gritted teeth.
Nodding in agreement, Astrid groaned against his ear. "O-Oh! Me too, babe!" Her hands on his shoulders tightened and she rode him harder and faster, causing them both to moan. That delicious friction of her husband's cock stretching her insides made Astrid throw her head back and cry out. Eyeing his wife with love and desire, Hiccup used all of his tricks to bring her off. Leaning in, he latched on to her right breast, mouthing at the soft, firm flesh and licking along her nipple.
"H-Hiccup!" Astrid cradled her husband's head close to her chest and ran her tongue along her lower lip as she watched her husband please her. He could feel her tightening around him, and Hiccup knew that she was dangerously close to reaching her end. Using his left hand, his hand slid down where they were joined until his fingers touched her clit. "Yes! Touch me, babe!" She pleaded.
The Fair Queens were captivated by the wholesome yet erotic scene unfolding before them, they knew they each shared a connection with Hiccup, however, they couldn't help but feel the intensity of Hiccup and Astrid's love. The way Hiccup was selfless and sought to ensure his wife was well pleased, the soft smiles they exchanged, and the words of love they groaned out through the lewd sounds of sex and skin meeting the skin. As the Viking ruler's lips met in a deep, searing kiss, the world around them seemed to fade away. Their kisses deepened, expressing emotions that would couldn't capture, and the Fair Queens, witnessing such raw intensity, couldn't help but feel intrigued, awed, jealous, and happy for their lovers.
This was more than just a display; it was a celebration of love, strength, and unity, proving that in a world filled with dragons, war, clashes of religions, betrayal, and ensuring that a race of people endured, the connection that Hiccup and Astrid remained unbroken. The Fair Queens watched, spellbound by the warmth and intimacy, knowing they were not only fortunate and blessed to share the man Astrid called husband, but they also were able to witness something truly special when the Viking king and queen wished to share moments of love for them alone--two souls fully alive in their love for each other.
Astrid's scream of pleasure shattered the spellbound display for the Fair Queens as they witnessed their queen reach her first climax for the day. Hiccup grinned, pleased that his wife finally reached his end, and was planning on savoring these last few moments of holding off before he too reached his end. His hands reached to cup her pert backside and changed their positions without pulling out of her. Astrid soon found herself in the chair, her legs were over Hiccup's shoulders and he humped her with wild abandon, the feral look on his face made Astrid more aroused.
"C-Close," he grunted, impaling her over and over.
"Do it, babe," Astrid pleaded as she desperately panted through his powerful thrusts. "Gods, Hiccup! You hump me so good!" She babbled, despite having already reached her end, she was reaching a second climax, thanks to her loving husband.
Ramming his cock deep inside of his wife's silken heat, he let out a deep groan as he spilled deep inside of her, one thick rope after another. And that triggered Astrid's second climax and all she could do was hang onto the armrests of the chair. When it was over, Hiccup loomed over Astrid and panted heavily, a light sheen of sweat along his lean, toned body, and strands of his hair sticking to his forehead. Astrid grabbed the back of his neck and brought him in for a deep kiss, one he happily returned.
After breaking their kiss and pulling out of his wife, Hiccup smiled down at his wife. "Good morning,"
Returning his smile, she winked. "It is now," she then stood up once the afterglow of morning sex wore off and she turned to the Fair Queens who were still their silent audience. "Enjoy the show?" She teased.
"I certainly did," Camicazi said.
Laughing at the shorter blond, Heather shrugged. "I think we all did," she then added before any of the other Fair Queens decided to have a hump with Hiccup. "Why don't I make us and the children food?"
"I'll help!" Rapunzel grinned.
"We'll all help," Hiccup said before sharing another kiss with Astrid before redressing. "After we eat, I need a bath."
"Will you need any company, my dear?" Valka inquired with a coy smile.
Smirking at his mother, Hiccup raised an eyebrow. "Do I have a choice?"
"No."
All the Fair Queens said in unison, causing everyone to laugh before preparing a morning meal for them and the Heirs of Hiccup before taking on the challenges the day would bring.
(Dragon Hunter camp)
"Mistress, I urge you to reconsider!" A Dragon Hunter pleaded. "Our numbers and dragons aren't enough to challenge the Viking king and his followers."
Zlobina the Malicious and her fellow Dragon Hunters were gathered in the tent where they discussed their business transactions and next courses of action, and now, with Savage and his tribe of killers and outlaws by their side, the daughter of Grimmel the Grisly was ready to finally make a move against Hiccup Haddock and exact her revenge.
Glaring at the doubting hunter, Zlobina was about to rebuke them, however, another hunter spoke up. "We have been in this land for many months now, and even with our valuable hostage in the form of Alina Grimborn, we have yet to act," crossing their arms, the hunter sneered at Zlobina. "We are Dragon Hunters, not warriors. What you seek is a lost cause—"
Before the hunter could even finish his sentence, Zlobina drew a knife and slashed the hunter's throat open. Everyone exclaimed and stepped back as the hunter let out a gurgled gasp and clutched at his slashed throat, trying to keep the geyser of blood spewing out of his gaping throat, but it was pointless as he fell face first on the ground, dead. All eyes looked to Zlobina whose visage was dark and murderous. After wiping her knife and sheathing it, she bore her teeth. "Does anyone else have anything they want to say?" When no one dared to speak another word, she grunted before pointing to where Hiccup's Viking settlement was established on the map before them. "With our enemies now having a working settlement established here, it's in our best interest to see it destroyed and lure Hiccup out and face us on our terms."
Govan stepped forward, and despite his distaste for Zlobina's increasing violence and aggression towards their fellow hunters, he supported her. "Agreed. Haddock's people are unaware that we've been breaking camp and slowly but surely encroaching toward their settlement. If we cause some damage to their settlement, say... destroy the winter storehouses, it will provoke Haddock's people into action," he then turned to Savage and Hauk Blood-Stained. "I trust you and your people can handle that?"
Grinning, Savage gave a firm nod. "Heh, it would be our pleasure," the leader of The Deviants turned to Hauk. "Choose the best among our men to infiltrate Haddock's settlement and burn down their storehouses. Those who will take up the plow will have a hard time to provide for both their families and livestock when there's no grain left."
"Yes, Lord Savage."
As Hauk exited the tent, Zlobina looked at her lover with a grateful look before looking at Savage, distrust, and doubt in her eyes as she sneered at the Viking oath breaker. "When the fighting comes, I hope your men have the balls for it," she then scoffed softly before adding. "I'm paying you a fortune to aid in my quest to exact revenge on Hiccup Haddock and his Night Fury."
Savage gave his benefactor and ally a sinister smirk. "Oh, The Deviants have balls and we have hatred towards Hiccup Haddock and those who follow him," he then spoke dismissively before exiting the tent. "You'll get what you paid for. But if the tide turns against you? I won't allow my tribe to be washed away because of your bloodlust."
The Dragon Hunter leadership cursed Savage softly, some spitting where he had stood before looking back to Zlobina for instructions. "Be ready. When the time comes, we'll see this done, and seek to build a new enterprise, one that will make us all rich," as the hunters nodded, they too left the tent, leaving Zlobina and Govan alone. With a heavy sigh, she looked over her shoulder and asked softly. "Should we wait until Drago and his allies join us?" Facing Govan fully, Zlobina continued. "It is the sound strategy, after all. We've been here for months and know the land. If we were to send word to Drago in advance and help him in wiping the Vikings from the earth, surely there can be a future--"
"We disobeyed him by coming here, Zlobina," Govan's reminder was like the sting of a knife piercing her side, she knew that her suggestion was pointless, and yet a small part of her hoped that it could lead to her and those accompanying her to receive mercy from Drago's wrath. It was a fool's hope, ultimately. "Drago does not tolerate insubordination, let alone those going behind his back. We are on our own. Whatever happens to us, just know that I have no regrets, about being by your side."
Approaching him, Zlobina cupped his face and kissed him, one he reciprocated. She then rested her forehead against his and murmured. "Thank you."
As the sun began setting, the Deviants that Hauk had chosen moved silently through the dense German forest, the canopy above them casting long shadows that danced with each step they took. Clad in dark, weathered clothing that blended seamlessly with the surroundings, they were as much a part of the woods as the towering pines and whispering leaves.
Leading the group was Eirik Skufsson, a formidable figure whose very presence commanded attention. His blue eyes burned with a fierce intensity, a reflection of the rage and hatred that had festered within him for years. Behind him, the warriors under his command moved with purpose, each one bearing their scars of injustice at the hands of Hiccup Haddock and his allies over the years.
"The settlement is just beyond that ridge," murmured Freya, a fierce shield maiden with expertise in archery. She pointed ahead, her voice barely a whisper but laced with venom.
Eirik nodded, turning to face his comrades. "Remember why we're here. Hiccup and his settlers have taken everything from us—our homes, our honor, our families. Today, we make them pay."
A murmur of agreement rippled through the group, their determination palpable. Each of them had endured hardships that had transformed them into fighters, unwilling to bow down to those who saw them as less than human. Branded as outcasts, they wore their status as Skogarmaor—forest spirits—as a badge of honor rather than shame. They had been stripped of everything else, but their warrior spirits remained unbroken.
The group continued their cautious advance, the forest soon giving way to a clearing where the German settlement lay. Smoke rose from chimneys, melding with the mist that hung low in the air. It was a picture of tranquility that stood in stark contrast to the storm brewing in the hearts of the Deviants.
"Positions," Eirik ordered. "We move at sundown."
As the sun's light began to wane, casting long shadows over the settlement, the Deviants prepared themselves for the task ahead. Silent nods of acknowledgment were exchanged as they moved into position, each one recalling the faces of loved ones lost and the homes they had been forced to leave behind.
Eirik took a deep breath, the weight of their mission pressing heavily upon him. "For the fallen," he whispered, raising his hand to signal the attack. "For our revenge."
Before they could advance, however, one of the warriors under Eirik's command fell with an arrow piercing him in the back of the head. And then another fell with several arrows striking them in the chest. Barking out commands to form a shield wall, Eirik and his men soon found themselves surrounded by Saami warriors wearing camouflage to go with the dense German forests. Their bows and blowguns were at the ready, as spearmen surrounded Eirik and his men, preventing them from escaping.
Several dragon riders soon touched down, and the Auxiliary Riders, led by Gustav Larson, perched on his Monstrous Nightmare, Fanghook, smiled at the Viking outlaws. "Nice try, but we were preparing for Savage and Zlobina to attempt this," he then looked to one of the Saami on the ground. "Want to let Hiccup know that we stopped the filth from spreading their foulness in the settlement, Son of Eret?"
Wiping some of the camouflage paint off of his face, Eret gave the young man a firm nod. "I suppose I will, Larson," he then looked to the rouge Vikings and narrowed his eyes. "Who leads this group?" When none of them answered, Eret turned to another of his people who let several arrows fly, some striking Deviants in exposed limbs, causing them to crumble to the ground and their shield wall breaking, allowing the Saami with spears to circle then rogues more tightly and apply more pressure. "I'll ask again, who leads this group?" Eret repeated firmly, scouring the faces of the Viking rogues.
Finally, Eirik lowered his shield and stood straight, making eye contact with Eret. "I am," he then eyed Eret from head to toe before sneering. "What are you going to do?"
"Oh, I won't be doing anything," Eret smirked before pointing to someone approaching them. "He is."
Eirik and the other Deivants saw Hiccup, perched on Toothless' back, along with the other dragon riders. With Inferno in hand, the Viking king pointed his blade at the rogues. "Surrender. Now!"
As the other riders and their dragons readied to attack, Eirik spotted a group of Northuldra women bringing in their haul of fish from an evening fishing trip not far from where they were. One of those women was Melody, Eret's woman, who was carrying his child. With a murderous smirk, he turned to Freya and gestured to them with his head. Nodding, she nocked her bow and arrow and let the projectile fly, striking Melody down.
"Melody!" Eret cried out in horror as he ran to her. "No!"
The world seemed to freeze for a moment as the arrow found its mark, striking Melody with chilling precision. She stumbled, the fish she had been carrying falling from her grasp, her hands instinctively going to the wound at her side. Eret's anguished cry pierced the air as he rushed to her side, his face contorted in horror and disbelief.
"Melody!" He screamed, dropping to his knees beside her. "Stay with me! Please!"
The other Northuldra women shrieked in terror, dropping their fishing gear and scattering in panic. Hiccup's eyes widened in shock as he witnessed the brutal act, his heart clenching. Rage bubbled up within him, a fury born from the utter disregard for innocent life.
The arrow that struck Melody fell like a death knell over the battlefield. Her anguished cry, followed by Eret's desperate scream, was the catalyst for an immediate and furious response from Hiccup. Rage and grief intertwined, fueling his next command.
"Kill them all!" Hiccup ordered, his voice echoing with the authority of a Viking king and the anguish of a friend.
In an instant, the dragon riders and their dragons sprang into action, the pent-up fury unleashed like a storm. Toothless released a series of rapid plasma blasts, each one precisely aimed at the Deviants. The other dragons followed suit, fire and acid and lightning cutting through the rogue warriors with unrelenting force.
Eirik barely had time to react as he saw the aerial assaults bearing down on them. "To arms!" he shouted futilely, although their weapons were already drawn, "Fight back!"
But it was to no avail. The coordination and sheer power of Hiccup's forces, now incensed by the attack on Melody, were overwhelming. Freya was one of the first to fall, Toothless's plasma blast striking her before she could even nock another arrow.
The Saami archers and auxiliary dragon riders moved in with ruthless efficiency. Arrows flew, finding their marks with deadly accuracy. Spears were thrown, slicing through the dense air and piercing their targets. The Deviants, already weary from the prolonged battle, found themselves utterly outmatched.
Bjorn, despite his unparalleled strength and ferocity, was taken down by a coordinated attack from a pair of dragon riders. As he tried to rise, an arrow from a Saami warrior struck him through the chest, ending his fight with a final grunt of defiance.
Eirik fought with the desperation of a man who knew his end was near. He swung his sword wildly, managing to deflect a few blows but finding himself overwhelmed by the sheer number of attackers. He felt the searing pain of an arrow piercing his side, then another slicing through his arm.
Hiccup, still mounted on Toothless, directed the chaos with a cold focus, ensuring no Deviant was left standing. Rage borne from the assault on Melody and the threat they represented drove him. The once proud and determined Deviants were cut down, their rebellion ending brutally and decisively.
Eret, cradling Melody, couldn't bear to watch but knew the retribution was justified. His heart ached with sorrow and rage, hoping against hope that the healers would arrive in time to save her and their unborn child.
As the last of the Deviants fell, silence finally descended over the battlefield. The acrid smell of smoke and blood hung in the air, a testament to the ferocity of the fight. Hiccup dismounted Toothless and approached Eret and Melody, his heart heavy.
"Healers, now!" He barked, the command urgent, brooking no delay. He turned back to the fallen Deviants, a mixture of sorrow and grim satisfaction in his eyes.
Eirik lay among the fallen, his vision blurring. He watched Hiccup approach, resignation in his gaze. "You... You might have won this fight..." he gasped, each breath a struggle, "but you... you have no idea what is coming for you and your people."
Hiccup stood over him, a steel in his expression that betrayed little of the turbulence within. "I'm aware that old enemies want revenge," he murmured, there was no pity in his eyes—only the cold reality of war. "They'll soon be sent to Hel, along with you."
As the last breath left Eirik's body, Hiccup turned away, moving to where the Saami healers worked frantically over Melody. He looked at Eret, the pain of a friend's suffering etched deeply into his face. "She has to make it. She has to."
The cost of peace was high, the toll on their hearts immeasurable. As the night settled over the battlefield, Hiccup vowed that the loss would not be in vain—that they would build a future where such violence would never again be necessary. But for now, the scars of battle ran deep, each one a reminder of the price they had paid.
The chaos of the battlefield gave way to a grim determination as the dragon riders quickly reorganized. Astrid, dismounting from Stormfly, took charge with the decisiveness of a seasoned warrior.
"Gustav, take the Auxiliary Riders and scout the perimeter," she commanded. "Make sure no other Deviants are attempting to breach our defenses. We can't afford any more surprises."
Gustav nodded sharply, rallying the auxiliary riders to follow him. They took off swiftly, their dragons' wings beating powerfully as they ascended into the twilight sky.
Meanwhile, Fishlegs joined the Saami healers, his vast knowledge about herbal remedies and dragon-induced injuries proving invaluable. He worked tirelessly alongside them, pointing out plants and concoctions that might help stabilize Melody.
"Quick, give her this," Fishlegs urged, handing over a poultice he'd prepared. "It should help reduce the bleeding and prevent infection."
Eret remained by Melody's side, watching with a mixture of hope and fear as the healers worked. "Come on, Melody. Stay with us. Stay with me," he whispered, his voice barely holding back the emotion.
As the immediate crisis settled, Snotlout, alongside Ruffnut, Tuffnut, and his wife Thorhild, gathered in a tight huddle. Fury and a thirst for vengeance burned in their eyes. The talk was of retribution, of making Savage's people and their allies pay for the pain they had caused.
"We need to hit back, and hit hard," Snotlout said, his voice dripping with anger. "They need to know they can't just strike at us and walk away."
"Agreed," Ruffnut added, her eyes blazing. "We've been on the defensive for too long. It's time to take the fight to them."
Thorhild, an experienced warrior in her own right, nodded. "We have to make an example out of anyone who dares to align with Savage or Zlobina. Show them the true strength of Berk."
Hiccup listened to their heated discussion, his mind weighing the options. He knew they needed to act, to show strength and resolve, but he also understood the cost of war. The sight of Eret cradling Melody, fighting to keep her alive, fueled his decision.
"You're right," Hiccup said, his tone resolute. "We can't let this act go unanswered. Ruffnut, Tuffnut, Thorhild, gather a force. Snotlout, start preparing the dragons. We need a sizable contingent ready to counterattack. Make sure we have enough supplies and weaponry."
Astrid placed a hand on Hiccup's shoulder, offering silent support. They shared a look, understanding the weight of what lay ahead.
"We'll show them what happens when you strike at our hearts," Astrid said softly, her voice firm with conviction.
Hiccup nodded. "We'll need to coordinate with our allies. Send word to the others. This isn't just about us anymore—it's about ensuring peace and stability for all the Scandinavian people under our rule."
The preparations began in earnest. Riders and dragons rallied, weapons were sharpened, and supplies were gathered. Through it all, the determination to exact justice and protect their German settlement never wavered.
As night fell, the fires of the camp burned brightly, a beacon of their relentless spirit. Hiccup stood at the edge of the settlement, overlooking the preparations, feeling the presence of his friends and allies by his side. The pain and anger in their hearts were raw, but it fueled their resolve.
"Tomorrow, we take the fight to Zlobina the Malicious and Savage the Oath Breaker," Hiccup declared. "For Melody. For our fallen. For our kingdom."
A chorus of agreement rose into the night, a promise to defend their home and honor. The battle ahead would be fierce, but they would face it united, driven by the strength of their bonds and the unyielding spirit of their people.
A/N: The next few chapters are gonna be where the story picks up and leads to all-out war. You can expect another update soon, I'll get to work on the next chapter as soon as possible!