(New Berk)
"Guess what people? We're back!"
"We know, Snotlout," Astrid turned to her friend in an annoyed growl, still waking from the grip of sleep. Shielding her eyes from the light of dawn, the Queen of Vikings exhaled, wrapping the thick fur cloak around her body tightly. "I never thought we would see these lands again."
Looking at his wife, who had been asleep in one of the longboats carried by a Typhoomerang, alongside their children and the other Fair Queens, Hiccup nodded in agreement. "I'll admit, the wish that I used to restore our homelands had me doubting whether or not the risk of returning was worth it, but I'm glad to see that I was wrong about that," he then shrugged, "I'm just glad we all made it back home before the winter storms hampered our journey."
"Pfft! Like that hasn't stopped us before!" Tuffnut exclaimed with a grin. "We're Vikings! We crush the mountains, level the forests, and tame the seas!"
"Well, technically, no," Fishlegs began, "but—"
"Yeah!" Ruffnut agreed with her brother. "Besides, even if we did have to fight through blinding snow storms to get back home, we're Vikings, it's an occupational hazard."
Snorting softly at the enthusiasm his friends displayed, Hiccup couldn't help but nod in agreement. "Fair enough," he then patted Toothless on the head and pointed to their home. "Alright bud, let's head home."
As the dragons and their Viking riders soared through the biting cold air of Scandinavia, Hiccup felt a mix of relief and anticipation. The sight of his homecoming into view filled him with a sense of belonging, but the weight of his recent experiences loomed heavily in his mind. The threat of the colossal armies had been ever-present, and the fear of losing everything he had fought for gnawed at him.
With the magic lamp still warm in his pocket, Hiccup recalled the moment he had made his second wish to Genie. It was a decision born out of desperation, but he had hoped for a solution that would save his people without loss of life. "I wish that the armies threatening my people would turn on each other," he had spoken earnestly, his voice steady. "Let them weaken themselves so that my people can live in peace."
The moment the wish left his lips, he felt the air shimmer around him, a promise of magic unfurling in the world, Hiccup had felt a flicker of hope surge within him, but he knew the unpredictable nature of wishes could bring unintended consequences.
As the Scandinavian people landed in the snowy valley of New Berk, Hiccup dismounted Toothless and was met with a flurry of activity from his people and the dragons alike. The Hairy Hooligans wasted no time as they began preparing for the harsh winter, gathering supplies, and ensuring their homes were ready for the cold. And that would be the case for the rest of the day, while the Hairy Hooligans made their homes livable again, Hiccup convened with his warlords and had them all return to their respective kingdoms for the time being and build and prepare defenses of a massive scale for the day Drago or any other of his enemies returned to threaten them, they would be prepared to destroy them. Those who wished to remain on New Berk, be they other Viking tribes or clans that have nowhere else to go, remain on New Berk and settle away from where the Hairy Hooligans dwell, the same is the case for many of the Saami and Inuit clans.
This also included Queen Merida and the Scots who followed her. To ensure a lasting peace between their respective peoples, Hiccup, and Merida were married for all to behold, and it certainly was a sight to behold. Never before had a Viking king married a Scottish queen as a means of unifying their respective peoples, but with the threat of madmen like Drago and power-hungry warlords and lunatics who crave chaos, bloodshed, and war, it was imperative to secure as many allies as possible. And despite the bad blood their people shared for centuries, under Hiccup's command, he was able to forge peace with Merida and the Scottish people. This separated the King of Vikings from previous Viking kings and rulers, he desired to forge a permanent peace with those who could be allies, especially foreign powers. Aside from the Scots, Hiccup's scouts learned of two major factions that ought an audience with the Viking king and were continently already established in Scandinavia, having heard that the King of Vikings and his people were returning home.
With a union with the Scots fully consummated, Hiccup and his people were taken aback when their scouts reported the arrival of two sizable fleets on the horizon. As the sun dipped low in the sky, casting a golden hue over the sea, the banners of New Rome unfurled against the wind, emblazoned with the insignia of the I Damocles Legion. Leading this formidable force was Nihilus Placidius Vitalis, the Dominus renowned across the lands not only for his martial prowess but also for his strategic brilliance. Accompanying him were his adult children, Proxima and Sejanus, both seasoned leaders in their own right.
The Knights of the Iron Legion, under the command of the Lord Warden and his trusted warlords, also made their presence known. Many of these warriors were former lieutenants of the notorious Blackstone Legion, a group known for its ruthless tactics and unwavering loyalty to their leader, Apollyon. Their sudden appearance on the shores of Hiccup's kingdom sparked a mixture of curiosity and concern among the villagers.
After a tense and anticipatory wait, Hiccup summoned the leaders of these two powerful forces to the Great Hall, a grand structure adorned with ancient tapestries and the echoes of past victories. The scent of burning cedar and the warmth of the hearth enveloped the room, creating an atmosphere of both camaraderie and gravity. As the hall filled with the clamor of warriors, a palpable sense of purpose hung in the air.
Hiccup stood at the head of the long table, flanked by his trusted allies, including Astrid and Gobber. He looked out at the gathered leaders, their faces a mix of determination and skepticism. "Welcome, warriors of New Rome and the Knights of the Iron Legion," he began, his voice steady and authoritative. "We are honored by your presence and your willingness to unite against a common enemy. Drago Bludvist and those who threaten our lands must be stopped."
Nihilus Placidius Vitalis stepped forward, his armor glinting in the firelight, revealing a figure both imposing and regal. "King Hiccup, we come not only seeking an alliance but offering our strength and resources to ensure that this threat is extinguished. Our legions are battle-hardened and ready to fight. We have faced many foes, but none as treacherous as the likes of Drago."
Proxima, her voice sharp and clear, added, "We bring not just soldiers but strategies honed through countless battles. The Iron Legion knows the ways of war, and together we can devise a plan that leverages our strengths."
The Lord Warden nodded in agreement, his warlords standing resolutely behind him. "Our history may be marred by bloodshed, but we have learned from our past. Loyalty and honor bind us now. We will fight for your cause, as long as our terms are respected."
Hiccup listened intently, his mind racing with possibilities. "Let us lay out those terms, then. What do you seek in this alliance?"
A heated discussion ensued, voices rising and falling as each side presented their needs and expectations. Hiccup emphasized the importance of mutual respect and collaboration, while the leaders of the fleets outlined their strategies for battle and the resources they could commit. As the evening wore on, the tension in the room began to shift. Ideas flowed freely, and a sense of camaraderie began to build among the warriors. They shared tales of past victories and defeats, forging bonds that would strengthen their resolve in the face of adversity.
As the discussions progressed, Hiccup Haddock felt a growing sense of urgency. The stakes were high, and while the prospect of alliances offered hope, he could not ignore the potential for betrayal lurking beneath the surface. With a firm but measured tone, he addressed the gathered leaders, his gaze steady and unwavering.
"I appreciate your willingness to unite against Drago Bludvist and his formidable coalition," Hiccup began, his voice echoing through the grand hall. "But before we proceed any further, I must demand assurances. I cannot afford to invite potential adversaries into my kingdom without knowing that your intentions are genuine."
The room fell silent, the weight of his words hanging in the air. Proxima and Sejanus exchanged glances, recognizing the gravity of the moment. Nihilus Placidius Vitalis straightened, the sincerity of Hiccup's request evident in his demeanor.
"King Hiccup, your caution is not only prudent but necessary," Nihilus replied, his voice steady. "I recognize the history of conflict that can accompany alliances, especially when different cultures and traditions come together. You have my word as Dominus of the I Damocles Legion that our intention is not to impose our will upon your kingdom, but to support you as allies in a common cause."
Hiccup nodded, but his expression remained unyielding. "Words are easy, Dominus. I seek more than promises. What guarantees can you provide that your forces will not act against us once we've turned our swords toward a common enemy?"
Lord Warden stepped forward, his demeanor solemn yet resolute. "We, the Knights of the Iron Legion, value honor above all else. Our code binds us to our oaths, and I assure you that our loyalty will be unwavering. We seek to protect rather than conquer. To betray your trust would be to betray our principles, and I would not stand for it."
"And what of the I Damocles Legion?" Hiccup pressed, his gaze shifting back to Nihilus. "What measures will you take to ensure that your warriors do not see opportunity in the chaos of battle to further their ambitions?"
Nihilus met his gaze with intensity. "We will establish a joint command structure, where our leaders will work alongside yours to ensure transparency and cooperation. Furthermore, I will send a contingent of my Legion to serve under your banner, answering directly to you. They will be tasked with maintaining order and protecting your realm, and should any of my soldiers act against your interests, they will face immediate consequences."
Hiccup considered this, weighing the implications. "And what about the Knights? We must ensure that they are equally accountable to my crown. I will not have my people caught in a power struggle between our factions."
Lord Warden nodded in agreement. "We will create a council that includes representatives from both your kingdom and our orders. This council will oversee joint operations and ensure that our actions align with your wishes. The safety of your people will be our priority, and we will hold each other accountable."
Hiccup felt a flicker of hope amidst his concerns. "Very well. But I will require further assurances. I expect regular communication between our forces, and I want to be informed of any plans or maneuvers before they are executed. We must act as one if we are to face Drago."
Nihilus and Lord Warden exchanged nods, understanding the importance of Hiccup's demands. "You have our word, King Hiccup," Nihilus affirmed. "We will establish a secure line of communication to keep you informed at every step."
Hiccup glanced at Astrid, seeking her counsel at the moment. She nodded subtly, her confidence in their ability to navigate this alliance evident.
"Then let us move forward," Hiccup declared, a sense of purpose returning to the atmosphere. "But know this: I will be watching closely. Trust is earned through action, and until you prove yourselves worthy, I will remain vigilant. Together, we will face Drago Bludvist, but I will not hesitate to act if I sense treachery lurking in the shadows."
With his terms laid down, the leaders of the I Damocles Legion and the Knights of the Iron Legion nodded in acknowledgment, understanding the gravity of their newfound alliance. It was a fragile bond, but one that held the potential to forge an unbreakable front against the encroaching darkness. The discussions resumed, now grounded in the shared commitment to honor and respect, setting the stage for a collaboration that could alter the fate of their world.
Finally, as the candles burned low, Hiccup raised his horn, filled with mead. "To our alliance! Together, we will stand against Drago Bludvist and his forces. May our unity bring us victory and peace."
The hall erupted in cheers, the sound echoing through the stone walls, a rallying cry that would mark the beginning of a new chapter in their struggle. With the Knights of the Iron Legion and the Roman fleets at their side, Hiccup felt a renewed sense of hope. This was not just a fight for survival; it was a fight for the future of their people, and they would face whatever came next together. And hopefully, gods be willing, more allies would join them before spring arrives.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting vibrant hues of orange and purple across the sky, the air in New Berk grew still, marked by a tranquil calm that followed a day filled with tension and purpose. The sounds of laughter and the gentle bubbling of water filled the air as Hiccup, Astrid, and the Fair Queens gathered at the hot springs, a sanctuary of warmth and relaxation amidst their demanding responsibilities.
The natural hot springs, nestled within the lush landscape of New Berk, were a beloved retreat for Hiccup and his people. The steam rising from the mineral-rich waters created an ethereal mist, wrapping around the group like a comforting embrace. The serene sounds of nature enveloped them, providing a momentary respite from the weight of their duties.
As they settled into the warm water, Hiccup let out a contented sigh, feeling the stress of the day begin to melt away. Astrid, ever by his side, smiled at him, her presence a grounding force amidst the chaos of the world outside. The warmth of the springs was a welcome relief, soothing muscles tense from planning and strategizing.
The Fair Queens joined them, each bringing their spirit and energy to the gathering. Heather, with her fiery spirit, shared a laugh with Camicazi, whose infectious enthusiasm brightened the atmosphere. Valka, the wise matriarch, spoke softly, reminding them of the importance of unity in times of uncertainty. Mala and Atali exchanged stories of their adventures, their voices weaving a tapestry of camaraderie that echoed throughout the springs.
Fiona, with her adventurous heart, leaned back against the smooth stones, her laughter ringing like music in the air. Rapunzel, her golden hair cascading around her, added her lighthearted tales, recounting her encounters with the magical flora of her homeland. Arianna and Jasmine, ever graceful, shared insights on their respective kingdoms, their wisdom enriching the conversation. Merida, with her bold spirit, encouraged everyone to embrace the challenges ahead with courage and resolve.
As the laughter and stories flowed, Hiccup felt a warmth in his heart. Here, surrounded by those he cherished, he could momentarily forget the looming threats and the weight of leadership. The bonds they forged through shared experiences strengthened his resolve, reminding him that he was not alone in this fight.
After a time, Hiccup turned to the group, his expression serious yet softened by the intimate setting. "I want to thank you all," he began, his voice steady but filled with emotion. "Today was long and exhausting, but knowing that I have such incredible allies—friends—makes all the difference. Your support means the world to me and our people."
Astrid nodded, her eyes shining with pride. "Together, we can face whatever comes our way. We are stronger as a united front, and we will protect our home and each other."
Heather chimed in, "We've faced challenges before, and we've always come through together. Whatever Drago and his coalition throw at us, we'll meet it head-on."
The others murmured their agreement, the shared conviction reinforcing their bond. Hiccup felt a renewed sense of hope in their unity. He knew that while the battles ahead would be fierce, they were equipped not just with strength and skill but with an unbreakable spirit—a family forged in friendship and shared purpose.
As night enveloped New Berk, the stars began to twinkle above, casting a gentle glow over the hot springs. The group continued to share laughter and stories, their voices mingling with the sounds of nature, a harmonious reminder of the peace they fought to protect.
In that warm sanctuary, Hiccup understood that no matter what challenges lay ahead, they would face them together, united by their shared love for their home and each other. And for that moment, amidst the warmth and laughter, he allowed himself to believe that perhaps they could overcome even the darkest of storms.
(Germany)
Kjell Bludvist stood at the edge of the battlefield, his heart pounding in his chest as he surveyed the scene before him. The once peaceful backyard of the Kingdom of Corona had transformed into a nightmarish tableau of chaos and carnage. The air was thick with the acrid scent of smoke and blood, punctuated by the cries of the wounded and the clash of steel. It was a hellscape, one he had never imagined witnessing, even amidst the brutal legacy left by his father, Drago Bludvist.
The Northern Alliance had arrived with the fervor of vengeance, eager to claim their prize as they sought to bolster their forces against Hiccup Haddock and his allies. But what they encountered was far beyond a mere skirmish. An unholy alliance had formed—a coalition of Christians led by the fervent Prince Haehmund of the Roman Catholic Church, alongside the disciplined Romans of Constantinople, commanded by the stoic Emperor Gallio Valens and his famed Golden Legion.
As the armies clashed, Kjell felt a wave of disbelief wash over him. The Northern Alliance had expected resistance, but they had not anticipated the sheer ferocity of their foes. The Christians fought not only with fervor but conviction, their banners of faith soaring high as they charged into battle. The Golden Legion, renowned for their discipline and tactical prowess, moved with a precision that left Kjell awestruck, even as he was enveloped in the chaos.
But it was the betrayal from within that cut deepest. The traitors among the people of Corona, those who conspired against Queen Arianna and Princess Rapunzel, had turned the very heart of their kingdom into a battleground. Their greed and ambition fueled the bloodshed, igniting a fire that consumed not only their enemies but their own kin as well. The sight of familiar faces twisting in rage and desperation was almost too much for Kjell to bear.
For twenty-four hours, the slaughter continued unabated. No quarter was given, and no mercy was shown. Bodies fell like autumn leaves, a gruesome testament to the brutality of the conflict. The ground was soaked in blood, turning the vibrant green of the grass into a dark morass of horror. The cries of the dying echoed through the air, drowning out the sounds of battle as men and women fought not only for their lives but for the very soul of their kingdoms.
Kjell fought alongside his Northern Alliance brethren, his sword cutting through flesh and armor with a brutality that seemed to awaken a primal instinct within him. Yet, as he struck down foes, a gnawing sense of dread clawed at his insides. He had always believed that war was a means to an end, a necessary evil in the pursuit of power. But this was no war; it was a slaughter driven by hatred and betrayal. It was a mindless frenzy that left only devastation in its wake.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows over the battlefield, Kjell found a moment of respite amidst the carnage. He leaned against a broken wall, breathing heavily, his mind racing. He had come here seeking glory and revenge, but what he found was a scene that would haunt him forever. The faces of the fallen—both friend and foe—flashed before his eyes, a haunting reminder of the cost of ambition.
In that moment of clarity, as blood continued to stain the earth beneath him, Kjell realized that he was trapped in a cycle of violence that had no end. The Northern Alliance had come to conquer, but now they were merely part of a greater tragedy. As he looked out over the field, illuminated by the flickering flames of burning homes and the last remnants of daylight, he wondered if there would ever be a path back from this darkness.
The sound of horns echoed in the distance, signaling a regrouping of the armies under the banner of the Northern Alliance. The slaughter was over, and Kjell knew he must return to the fray and help his father reorganize their numbers, both men and dragons, what remained of them anyway. But as he lifted his sword, the weight of it felt heavier than ever. How much more blood would be shed before this nightmare came to an end? The thought lingered in his mind as he charged back into the chaos, a soldier caught in a storm of his own making, desperately searching for meaning amidst the slaughter.
Kjell Bludvist pushed through the carnage and gore-slicked battlefield, adrenaline pumping through his veins as he navigated the corpse-littered ground. The sounds of crows cawing fiercely as they feasted on the flesh of men and dragons alike and anguished cries of the survivors or dying surrounded him, but his focus was singular: he had to reach his father, Drago Bludvist. The slaughter that had unfolded was not just a battle; it felt like a ritual of destruction, and Kjell was beginning to understand the unfathomable power behind it.
He recalled the stories that had circulated in hushed tones among the warriors—the tales of a magic lamp spoken of by Johann, a former ally who had vanished under mysterious circumstances. It was said to possess the ability to control the very elements of fate and war. The realization hit Kjell like a thunderbolt: this carnage, this destruction, was no mere coincidence. Hiccup Haddock, through some arcane means, was orchestrating the chaos that engulfed them.
As he neared Drago, his father's figure loomed tall and imposing, a dark silhouette against the backdrop of carnage. Drago was the epitome of a warrior, his armor stained with the blood of both friend and foe, sweat mingling with the remnants of battle. The air around him was thick with the smell of death, a scent that had become all too familiar, yet one that Kjell had hoped to escape.
"Father!" Kjell shouted, his voice rising above the aftermath of battle. Drago turned, his expression a mixture of rage and determination, but there was a glint of concern in his eyes as he took in the sight of his son.
"What news?" Drago demanded, his voice a low growl, barely concealing his fury. The battlefield had not been kind, and the losses were mounting.
Kjell's heart raced as he delivered the grim tidings. "We've lost all the Samurai of the Red Dragon Order, the remnants of the Scandinavian Dragon Hunters and Trappers, and the entire Muslim Coalition. They've been wiped out, Father—cut down by the forces we underestimated." His voice faltered for a moment before he steeled himself to continue. "And Apolyon, along with the Blackstone Legion and that snake, Harald Haraldson and his Viking mercenaries... they're gone. They've slipped away without a trace."
Drago's expression darkened, his jaw tightening as he absorbed the weight of Kjell's words. The losses were staggering, and the implications of such a defeat were dire. "Gone?" He echoed, disbelief mingling with anger. "We were meant to be one army. They were our allies in this fight!"
Kjell nodded, frustration boiling within him. "They must have seen the tide turning and fled. It's as if they realized the futility of this slaughter and chose self-preservation over loyalty. We've been betrayed by those who were meant to stand by us," he then seethed. "It's entirely possible they fled before the battle began. Apollyon wants war, yes, but only if she can manipulate the "wolves" among us, and play some part in it, using the chaos to her advantage. And Harald wants to be king over his people so badly that he will not throw his life away in a slaughter the likes of which we were fortunate to survive."
Drago's fists clenched, his eyes narrowing as he scanned the battlefield, searching for any sign of their missing allies. "I knew they would betray us sooner rather than later, but their betrayal still stings, regardless of their credibility as... former allies. They will pay for their betrayal," he hissed, his voice dripping with venom. "But we must focus on the present. If Hiccup is behind this—if he has harnessed the power of this magic lamp—then we must counteract whatever forces he has unleashed."
Kjell felt a chill run down his spine at the mention of Hiccup's name. "If he's using magic to control this chaos, then we're at a significant disadvantage. We need to regroup and strategize before we lose any more further men and resources."
Drago took a deep breath, the weight of leadership pressing heavily upon him. "You're right, my son. We may have lost many allies, but we still have the strength of our numbers. We will not let this slaughter stop us from achieving our ultimate goal. We will find a way to turn this around."
Kjell nodded, determination igniting within him. "What do you command, Father?"
Drago's gaze hardened, fueled by the resolve of a seasoned warrior. "We will gather those who remain loyal, rally our forces, replenish our strength, raid these lands, and winter here until spring comes until we can challenge Stoick the Vast's whelp directly. We must find a way to break the hold he has over us. If that lamp grants him magical power, we must either destroy it, counteract its power or take it for ourselves."
As the two Bludvists spoke, the sounds of battle continued around them, but their focus sharpened. They were no longer just participants in a chaotic skirmish; they were strategists, warriors united by blood and purpose. Kjell felt the adrenaline surge through him, igniting a fierce determination to reclaim their honor and turn the tide against Hiccup and his forces.
With renewed resolve, they began to move away from the fray, rallying what remained of their forces and preparing for the next phase of their campaign. The night was still young, and the battle was far from over. In the heart of the chaos, Kjell realized that their fight had transformed from a mere struggle for dominance to a fight for survival—and he was ready to embrace whatever darkness lay ahead to reclaim their legacy.
The battlefield was still winding down after the thunderous sounds of conflict when Drago Bludvist's warlords approached, their presence commanding attention amidst the remnants of battle. Chagatai Khan, a fierce warrior known for his cunning and strategic mind, strode forward, flanked by Griselda the Grievous, a fearsome woman whose ruthlessness was only matched by her loyalty, and Ragnar the Rock, a hulking figure whose strength was legendary.
They approached Drago and Kjell with expressions of grim satisfaction, their armor smeared with the grime of battle.
"Master," Chagatai began, his voice steady, "we have executed swift justice upon the traitors who sought to usurp the rulers of Corona. Their forces have been decimated, and those who remained are now at our mercy. We captured Prince Haehmund of the Roman Catholic Church and Emperor Gallio Valens of the Eastern Roman Empire."
Drago's eyes narrowed, a predatory gleam igniting within them. "You have done well. Bring them to me."
A nod of acknowledgment passed among the warlords, and moments later, a contingent of Northern Alliance warriors emerged from the fray, dragging the two captives—Haehmund and Gallio—forward. Both men looked disheveled and shaken, their dignity stripped away amidst the chaos of battle. The prince's eyes darted around, lingering on the blood-soaked ground, while the emperor, though visibly weary, tried to maintain an air of defiance.
As they were brought before Drago, the warlord's imposing figure loomed over them, a mixture of menace and authority. Kjell stood beside his father, feeling the weight of expectation settle on his shoulders.
Drago's voice resonated like thunder as he addressed the captives. "You stand before me as the remnants of two broken armies. Your forces have crumbled, and now, you are at my mercy. Tell me, what hope do you have to stand against the might of my forces that yet remain?"
Haehmund straightened, his pride momentarily overcoming his fear. "We were misled by the belief that we could eradicate the Viking threat once and for all. But after what I have witnessed with my own eyes, I see now that the Viking scourge pales in comparison to the monster that you and your alliance are. Surely, it is a threat to all of Christendom. I thought we could crush Hiccup Haddock and his people and dragons, but instead, met all of the forces who seek to eradicate the heathen king."
Gallio, though quieter, added with a hint of desperation, "I too came here to destroy Hiccup Haddock and his people, because left unchecked, they would sack the last city of the Roman Empire, but with my army decimated, my empire as at the mercy of all who oppose us. If you spare us, and what remains of our forces, we can still regroup and bring forth a new alliance—a stronger one."
Drago laughed a low rumble that sent chills down Kjell's spine. "If you truly seek an alliance, you must understand that I do not forgive nor forget." He stepped closer, the heat of his presence palpable. "However, I am a man of pragmatism. What if I offered you a chance to reclaim your honor? Join me in exacting revenge on Hiccup Haddock and his people."
Haehmund's eyes widened, the flicker of hope barely sparking behind the fear. "What do you propose?"
Kjell interjected, stepping forward, a fire igniting in his chest. "We have lost too many allies in this conflict, because of mysticism wielded by Hiccup Haddock, and it led to the deaths of the tens of thousands who litter the field. Your combined forces could bolster our strength against Hiccup's armies. With your knowledge of strategy and the resources of the Roman Church and Empire, we could turn the tide in our favor."
Drago nodded, his gaze unwavering. "Imagine it: the strength of the Roman Catholic Church combined with the might of the Eastern Roman Empire, alongside the ferocity of the Northern Alliance. Together, we could crush Hiccup Haddock and his allies, restore your influence, and ensure that you are feared once more, and you have my permission to worship your gods when I bring about my new world order."
Griselda, her voice sharp and unwavering, added, "This is your chance to regain your positions of power. Hiccup has tainted your lands and your honor. Stand with us, and take back what is rightfully yours."
Gallio exchanged a glance with Haehmund, the weight of the decision hanging heavily between them. The prospect of revenge was intoxicating, and realizing they could reclaim their fallen honor was a powerful lure.
After a tense moment, Haehmund finally spoke, his voice laced with newfound resolve. "We accept your offer. We will join forces with you, but understand this: we want a seat at the table. If we are to fight beside you, we demand a stake in the outcomes."
Drago smiled a predatory grin that revealed his satisfaction. "You will have your place, but remember: betrayal will not be tolerated. Stand with us, and you will reap the rewards. Fail me, and you will suffer the consequences."
With a nod from Gallio, the two captives accepted Drago's terms, sealing their fate as allies in this brutal campaign. After telling his men to unbind Haehmund and Gallio, he ordered his warlords to give their men their orders, spare the remains of the respective Roman armies, and prepare to help their new allies replenish their numbers and supplies by returning to the Roman cities.
As the warlords stepped back, Drago turned to Kjell, pride swelling in his chest. "This is our moment, my son. With our new allies, we will prepare for the next phase. When we destroy Hiccup Haddock and his people, we will take his Night Fury and the dragons who follow the alpha, harness the power of the magic lamp unleash our fury upon the world, and fulfill our ambition to establish a new world order. The slaughter we witnessed and survived will pale compared to the reckoning we will bring."
Kjell felt a surge of exhilaration at the prospect of vengeance. The battlefield had transformed into a chessboard, and they were now poised to make their move. Together, they would rise from the ashes of defeat and reclaim their legacy, no matter the cost.
"Trust me, father," Kjell said as he looked out toward the horizon with clenched fists, "I look forward to raining hellfire on Hiccup Haddock and those who follow him."