She was floating… At least, she thought she was… She was weightless, she couldn't see anything. What had happened? Her memory came back to her in bits. She had been consumed by darkness… Then there was a bright flash. She was surrounded by the light again… she floated for a bit, then… nothing. She remembered sounds. Familiar… but she couldn't… And a voice… calming, -soothing, filled with worry. -But who was it? She thought she should know…
It had been a trying morning, and the afternoon wasn't looking much better. The morning meetings had revealed nothing but the usual squabbles within the guilds, -and there had been no word… until now. Stories had begun to trickle in from far-traveling merchants and traders. A great battle had taken place far up north… The vikings were fighting each other again. After many years of peace, -war had broken out amongst them. -She knew better, -she had a small inkling, -maddeningly small- about what was actually going on… But there had been no word. For almost two weeks. Hiccup or Elsa kept her informed, but no Terror had shown up for many days now. She was sure everything was alright, -but that didn't help the feeling of dread that would creep up…
When last she'd heard, the conspiracy had been routed out, and Elsa and Hiccup were formally engaged. She was so happy for them! She had hoped to receive word to come to Berk and finalize the negotiations, but they had felt it better to wait a bit longer. Something else was going on, -and apparently was a big enough threat to keep her in Arendelle for a little while longer. She could understand, but she wanted to be there for her sister, and her future brother. She chalked it up to being part and parcel of her responsibilities as Queen apparent. She couldn't be put in harms' way… But neither could she just sit and do nothing.
She resigned herself to making plans and preparations for what came after. Papers were drawn up, guest lists were made. -And ships prepared for the journey. Provisions, the dignitaries that would go… It helped a little. Keeping her mind off of the other thoughts, -that something -bad had happened… Kristoff was a big help in that regard as well. His lessons had gone well. He had gained knowledge and respect. He turned out to be quite the negotiator. And while he sometimes expressed regret at what he had lost with his new-found status, she made sure to remind him of what he gained… And he still hadn't proposed yet!
She sighed to herself. Best to focus on the job at hand. Or rather, the young nobleman who stood in front of her. -Well, he was about her age… Very handsome, she thought. He had come from the Kingdom of Finneshausdt, and was expounding on the benefits of an alliance, and trade agreement with her country. They had allied long ago with King Oskar, and helped establish their world as it is today… Funny, -she hadn't heard of them, and by what she was told, offered up a whole three ships to her great-great grandfather.
Maybe it was because rumor had spread. The Snow Queen was allying herself with a powerful Viking King who commanded dragons. -At least, it was the latest they'd heard. It seemed the last number of months had seen the castles' visitors grow. Or at least, not thin out as it sometimes did. She had tried her best to dispel them, but it seemed the idea of a huge dragon showing up after years of assumed extinction bore looking into. Not to mention sending a wave of fear and concern over the implications.
-She knew better of course, she knew Hiccup wouldn't want that. But she couldn't help think it would be a great bargaining chip. And the status gained for her country would last for quite a while. Maybe even a few generations from now… But, -for now, she kept to quelling the rumors as best she could, and calm the concerns of her allies.
-And for now, she sat in her chair in the throne room, listening to the man drone along. She tried to appear interested… She should probably grant him a private audience to hear him out fully, -which she intended to do… When suddenly, there was a tiny grunt and chirp. Hlif had been napping at her side, which she often did… Yes, it didn't help her dispel the rumors, having a tiny dragon beside her, but her little girl would often get in to mischief if not. She had gotten much better… But something startled her.
There was, -something going on outside the doors. A full-out shouting match, if she had to guess. Until she heard the clash of metal and the ringing. Hlif jumped into her arms and hissed angrily at the noise. Guards started moving towards the doors when they suddenly burst open, knocking many of them over in the process.
There stood a blonde-haired woman, -younger than her even. Wielding a rather large axe. She was dressed in a thin woolen shirt and leggins. She also wore a leather skirt, the hem on one side higher than the other. Leather guards covered her forearms, fur-lined boots on her feet. She had a leather caplet lined with what she assumed was rabbit fur. She looked a bit menacing. Hlif hissed again, then stopped and chirped. The dragon relaxed a bit, and so did she.
She stood, and they locked eyes. She thought she should feel threatened, but the dragon… She took a step, and the remaining guards were on her. She wheeled and parried, knocking away sword and lance alike, -but she wasn't harming them. -Only giving them the side of her axe, or the handle. -Well, harming was relative, she imagined some of them would sport some nasty bruises and bumps for a few weeks. She watched with a bit of glee as this young woman handily defeated some of her best soldiers.
She finished and looked about. Her guards lay all about groaning. The woman rolled her shoulders, and holstered her axe behind her back. She looked and started making her way towards her. She stopped a respectable distance away, and took a knee.
"Forgive me, Princess! I am Gjaflaug, Nuisidottor! Rider of Berk! Personal… Assistant to her Majesty Elsa Ellesmyre of Arendelle! I have been sent by Chief Hiccup Haddock to come fetch you to him!" Her heart leapt, then sank. Either this was good news, or… Something bad had happened. They needed to talk, but not here. She turned to Gerda.
"Prepare a room for the Lady Gjaflaug!" And after she thought a bit…"One with a large balcony!"
She awoke. Voices… not familiar… She opened her eyes, but was met with blackness. Voices, some harsh. Coming from a distance… Screeching, -the screeching of… A rumble, a flash of light… For just a moment, permeating her entire being, then nothing. Nothing but blackness, and -voices. One low and commanding… "This one, this one is special…" She tried to look around, but couldn't. The pain! She could barely breathe… Couldn't move, -without… She drifted out once more… The lights… tiny balls of light floating about her…
She made her way quickly down the hall. Straightening her clothes while practically running. She had been summoned and it sounded urgent, and important. She wondered what it could be about. Surely, it couldn't be about Pascals' candy store incident. She had taken care of that. Maybe it was for Maxs' run-in with the china shop owner. She would probably not hear the end of that one! -Or maybe… Maybe they had finally gotten word from Eugene! It had been a few weeks now. Very, -very long weeks that she hadn't heard from her husband. She picked up her pace a bit.
She made it to the doors. The Chamberlain thankfully waited until she made some last-minute adjustments to her clothes before announcing her. She strode through the door and up the carpet. Mother and father were there, concern showing on their faces. Her attention was drawn though to the other person in the room.
She was an older woman. Her reddish-brown hair hung down almost to her knees. It showed a few tinges of gray, and was braided in long plaits. She wore a leather shirt and skirt that reached below her knee. Her eyes, -they were strangely familiar… She curtseyed in respect to the king and queen. Her mother stood and immediately came down from the dais.
"Father, -Mother…" The Queen reached her, and took her hands in hers.
"Rapunzel, darling… we, -have received word…" Her stomach sank a little, -but no! She turned to the other woman.
"This is…" She seemed to falter for a moment. The other woman spoke.
"Vahallarama Haddock, of Berk!" She said. Of course! The hair, the eyes…
"You're Hiccups' Mother!" She blurted out. She immediately curtseyed to the woman. When their eyes met again, there was a great warmth in them and a smile on her lips.
"Thank ye child! But that's no' necessary! Call me Valka!" She nodded. She could see it now. His nose his eyes, How could she not! But, there was something else.
"Please! -How is Eugene?" Valkas expression changed a bit. Dread crept slowly and coldly up her spine.
"Eugene, -was injured in the battle…" Her heart sank. The cold gripped the knot forming in her belly.
"His ship was attacked by dragons who were attempting to flee from the Queen. Tindr fought bravely, but there were too many of them. Your husband stayed on, and helped get as many of the crew off the ship…" How brave of him! But she knew that… And…
"Tindr? Who is Tindr?" She smiled.
"Your husbands' dragon! A Monstrous Nightmare… They had a few rough spots at the beginning, but they're a proper team now! He plucked him off the deck before the ship sank…" She would have to offer her thanks, if she ever made it to… Wait…
"He's fine child! A few cracked ribs, and a separated shoulder, and some issue with his ankle, but he'll be fine! We thought it best to come get you. There's no shortage of young maidens wanting ta nurse him back to health!" Humph! They should leave immediately!
"-And Hiccup? -Elsa?" Her expression changed again.
"Hiccup is fine… Elsa…" She paused for a moment. Her stomach dropped again.
"It was Elsa who took on the Queen herself… She destroyed her, -but… She has fallen into a deep sleep… She had still not awoken when we left…" That made sense. Her cousins powers always seemed to take its' toll, and to defeat a dragon as large as that… Wait…
"We? -Y, you've brought some one else?" Valka nodded.
"She was sent to Arendelle to retrieve the Princess, and take her back with us. We are to meet them the day after next, and return to Berk." And that meant… dragons!
"Oh! Oh please! May I, -may we meet your dragon?" She smiled and nodded. Along the way, she regaled them the story of the attack, and the battle the day after. Father promised to send ships the next day with herbs and medicines and whatever other support they could offer. Valka had been with the group trying to calm the dragons or run them off. She had watched as Elsa fought the giant beast. And what she did! She couldn't imagine… But then she knew her cousin capable. She would sacrifice herself to save others..Give her all… She did it nearly every day for her people, and the ones she loved…
She was met by not just one, but two dragons in the side courtyard. The first one was huge! Its' owl-like eyes seemed to bore into her soul. Cloudjumper, -that was his name… He warmed very quickly to her. The other… He was very large and looked very menacing. With his fangs sticking out of his mouth, and the spines on his back. Valka took hold of one of the horns on his head and gave him a shake.
"Tindr! You behave yourself! This is Eugenes' wife!" He gave the older woman a… Sheepish look! As though he had been caught with his nose in a forbidden barrel of fish. -Huh! She walked up to him, a little wary. His pupils narrowed. Then they locked eyes. Remembering Toothless, she held out her hand, and was soon met by his warm scales. She looked him in the eyes and gave him a scratch.
"Tindr? -I understand you saved my husband, Eugene! -Thank you! I am very grateful for that!" The dragon cooed and gurgled. And their eyes met again. She could tell he would be no problem for her. Her father spoke.
"Valka? Please! -Let us show you our hospitality! A room shall be prepared so you can rest! And please! It would honor us greatly if you would join us for dinner!" She nodded, and bowed gracefully. Mother took Valkas' hands.
"The staff shall see to your every need! And your dragons will be well-fed! And Please! Our castle, -our kingdom is yours!" She thanked them. They spent a few more moments with the dragons. Father and Mother got to scratch them as well, as Valka told them a little about them, and their breeds in general. She didn't want to leave them, but they seemed determined to nap after being fed. She needed to get going anyway. She needed to pack, -oh! And Pascal! He wouldn't like very much being left behind… Should she pack some clothes for Eugene? She would probably need a coat too…
She couldn't believe it. She leaned on the railing, and looked out over the courtyard. The harbor with its' huge ships, the town. Lights started twinkling in windows here and there announcing the arrival of evening. She looked to her left. The sun was a huge orange-colored ball that was just about to settle on the horizon. It all seemed so, -magical, and unearthly. It seemed she was in the middle of one of the stories her father used to tell her. About the shining cities and kingdoms that lay far south of the archipelago.
As a little girl, she had listened in rapt attention. She used to pretend she was a princess of one of the kingdoms in the stories. -As she got older, then older still, she assumed they were just stories meant to motivate her to do and be the best. She didn't really believe them, but some of the goods the traders brought with them sometimes, would fuel her imagination anew. And she would wonder if she would ever get the chance to see these shining kingdoms.
-And here she was! When Elsa had approached her with her idea, she merely assumed she would be taking care of matters there in the islands. Delivering messages, possibly representing her where she could not. She had entertained a thought that it might mean a trip south, but she was merely a generals' daughter. Such things were the duties of Chiefs, and people of higher standing. Plus, she had come from great disappointment as to her future, to a new, brighter outlook. She was very grateful, and squashed those ideas in favor of focusing on matters there.
There was a gentle knock on the door. She spun around. She had not yet learned to relax. It was all so new… The Princess Anna poked her head around the door. She heard a squawk and a chirp. Hlif came in and leapt in the air. She flitted over and landed in her arms.
"May I come in? I hope I'm not disturbing you." She took a step back and bent at the knee. They called it a… Curtsey. It was maddeningly hard to do… She bowed her head.
"Not at all, Your, -Majesty!" The other woman smiled at her.
"Please! It's just us! -Call me Anna!" She returned her smile. At first, she had thought her meek. But, an argument started after her… Entrance this afternoon. She thought she was going to be thrown in a dungeon. With but a shout and a look, she had instantly put the matter to rest. Yes, she was definitely Elsas' sister. Not the same kind of, -presence. But she commanded respect all the same. She liked her immensely. They both stood and looked out. Anna spoke after a few comfortable moments.
"So! What do you think so far?" It was all so new! Her head was spinning. She found it hard to describe.
"It, -I, -I never thought… My father used to tell me stories… But, being here… Seeing it all. It is so much more than I ever imagined!" She smiled. It was infectious. Hlif purred and cooed in her arms. The familiarity of the dragon was calming. Huh! Who would've thought…
"So tell me, how was it that you came into this?" She asked. It was a story she didn't like to remember, but then…
"I, -I was to be Hiccups… Chief Haddocks' wife… only to find out, they had already spoken for each other…" She told her the tale. Of her arrival, her disappointment, then her efforts to help them. And then of that night, and the routing of the conspiracy. She placed a hand on her arm.
"I'm so sorry!" She knew she meant it. She smiled and shook her head.
"Not at all! I'm very grateful! Hiccup… Chief Haddock, -damn that man! He protected my honor, and my position in the tribe! He gave me my dragon, and a place in his tribe when my own rejected me! While I am a bit sad, what I gained was so much more!" She smiled. Things could have turned out so much worse… An idea seemed to come to the Princess' mind…
"Could I… Meet your dragon?" She wasn't sure…
"Hiccup, -Chief Haddock told me to be careful… Dammitall! That your people weren't used to them…" Indeed, she had been careful. Valka had explained on the way… Almost all the southerners thought them dead, -long gone. They may not react well to the sight of them. She had left them at the ice castle with the guardian. One look at the strange crystal, and they were quickly accepted. Silly dragons! They had immediately started romping and playing about…
"I have put word out! No one is to harm a dragon under penalty!" She stated with authority. It would not be a bad idea, for them to get acquainted. -Especially considering the long journey ahead. They were out there, and close. She smiled and nodded. She placed her fingers in her mouth and whistled loudly. She knew he would respond, but the other… It was strange… No mention had been made of her coming, but she had followed all the same.
She searched the sky for a moment, and then, -there! Two tiny dots, slowly growing in size. So she did follow him here as well. Did she, -know? Or… Hmmm They truly were amazing creatures! She took Anna by the arm and backed away from the railing. The dragons hovered for a moment before landing. Her boy gave a cheerful squawk. Hlif clawed and jumped out of her arms. She flew about the others chirping and squawking, seemingly happy to see more of her kind. Huh!
She walked up, and fondly scratched his jaw. He cooed and gurgled, and pushed his nose into her chest. She scratched harder. She turned and looked. Annas' mouth hung open, and her eyes were wide. There was no fear though. But then, Hiccup… Chief… Unghhh! She mentioned she had met Toothless, and there was little Hlif as well…
"They're huge!" She exclaimed. The smile didn't leave her face. She gave another scratch.
"We call them Deadly Nadders! This one, is Biscuit! He is my dragon, my brave boy!" He grunted and cooed. She ducked under his head, and walked to the other. Her first meeting didn't go that well… But she reached up, and gave a scratch, which she accepted somewhat hesitantly. She feared for a moment…
"This is Hulda! She is Elsas' dragon…" She rose on her haunches a bit and squawked loudly, splaying her wings. It didn't stop the princess though. She walked up slowly and held up her hand. Hulda sniffed once and, -that was it! Maybe she did know… Hmmm.
"You're so very pretty!" Hulda squawked and chirped. She accepted Annas' attention readily. She had feared… Such a long journey was not the place to learn to ride, but in that moment she knew… Hulda would look after her as she did Elsa. They spent the time chatting. She told her what she knew of the dragons, and of the battle. Anna told her of Elsas' powers, and of the history, and goings-on of her country. After learning, she felt a little better about the situation. She had been fearful for Elsa. Not for her own sake, but for Hiccup. Surely, the Gods would not be so cruel to her brave and noble Chieftain! She had been heartbroken at the sight of him after, and had prayed hard for Elsas' recovery.
They broke apart with a promise of a breakfast with more of the sumptuous food, and a meeting with her council. And a meeting of a certain Lady Catarin, who was Elsas' assistant here in Arendelle. She would learn more of what was expected of her, and the dragons would rest. They would leave the day after next.
After bathing, she put on a… A, -nightgown! That's what they called it! It felt so soft and wondrous against her skin. The servants were a bit annoying, but they told her it was their job to see to her comfort. -And the bed! It looked as if it would swallow her whole! She crawled onto the soft, soft mattress, and in between the soft sheets. She could get used to this! She hoped this would not be the last time, but as the Queens' assistant… She might have to see if a certain Chieftain might be allowed to accompany her… After all, his duties would include diplomacy? -Wouldn't they?
Her head hit the pillow, and she was almost instantly asleep. She was so tired! She dreamt of clear, endless open skies, a dragon underneath her, and an axe strapped to her back…
She woke again, but this time it was different, much different. There was a ceiling over her head. Vines twisted across it. Green leaves and tiny, white flowers with slightly yellow centers covered most of it. She was lying on a bed. White, white sheets covered her. The whitest she had ever seen. She turned her head. Her neck creaked, and something burned on the side of it.
It seemed she was on a small, covered porch in a garden. Trees and flowers, the likes of which she had never seen finally came into focus. Birds twittered and flitted beyond. She heard the buzzing of insects. The smell of lavender and violets filled her nose. It was all so very beautiful!
She tried to move, but she was met with pain. Her neck, her shoulders and hips. It seemed every joint in her body was aching to one degree or another. And her ribs! They felt like they were stabbing deeply into her chest. She managed to prop herself up on her elbows, but with great effort. Well, the pain meant one thing, -she was still alive… Or was she? She looked around a bit more. Six large columns supported the roof over her head. They, the floors… everything was made of the whitest marble she had ever seen! The bed she lay on too was white marble. She thought it should feel hard, but it wasn't.
She looked down. She was dressed in a fine white linen gown. Even in her extensive wardrobe, she had never owned anything like it. It felt so soft and luxurious! She turned her head the other way. A table was set next to the bed. And on it was a basin and pitcher, and a small cup. All made with the brightest carved gold she had ever seen. Next to it a chair was set. It had a wooden frame, inlaid with carvings of the same bright gold. The cushions on it looked very soft!
Then the questions came. Where was she? She vaguely remembered a fight, -a battle. She had fought… Something, or someone… She had won, -or did she? Her memory was a bit fuzzy still. A large man, dark hair, cold eyes. A beast, as large as a castle… Then it hit her. The Queen! She had fought… She had leapt into her jaws as she descended on her… and, -and… Oh, -Oh NO!
Her chest and stomach clenched at the same time. Had she… had she passed on from the world? Was this… Valhalla? Her first thought was to… Hiccup! Oh! He'll be devastated! Heartbroken! She needed to get to him, if anything to comfort him. Surely he would understand, but it wouldn't help much if she couldn't… She tried to move again, but was met with a terrible searing pain throughout her body, radiating from her spine. She closed her eyes and grit her teeth against the pain… But wait, If she were truly gone, she shouldn't feel this, should she? And where was the weakness? The weakness she felt after releasing her magic so? Sure, she felt tired but… There was supposed to be no more pain, or suffering… Only drinking and feasting….
It was then she noticed him. Through her watering eyes… A small boy standing next to one of the columns. He was dressed in a white tunic with short pants. He regarded her for a moment, then turned and ran off down the pathway. He disappeared around a corner… She tried to move again, to sit up, -but the pain… It felt as though she was being cut in two. Pain wracked her midsection. Her ribs protested vehemently. Her vision swam. She felt light-headed, dizzy… She closed her eyes and flopped down on the pillows.
The pain was barely subsiding when she heard soft footfalls on her right. Then the sound of water being poured. A strong, soft hand went under her back and lifted her. The cup came to her lips.
"Drink!" The voice said. Definitely a woman. Her voice soft and melodious, -soothing. The water was sweet, with a tinge of bitterness. Her pain instantly subsided. She was gently laid back down. After a few moments she opened her eyes.
The woman standing next to the bed was beautiful. Blonde hair twisted into a series of braids, with one long braid draped over her left shoulder. Piercing blue eyes, She wore bright, shining armor. Pure white tunic and skirt. The studs, and her shoulder guards shone bright silver. The shoulder guards, and the ones on her forearms were carved with runes, and… images of dragons? A carved axe head poked up behind her head. And the pendant around her neck, Just a simple chain, with two jewels, -but no, they weren't jewels, they were… dragon scales! A Night Fury scale attached to the top of a -Nadder scale! Was this… Could this be…
"Astrid?" The woman smiled a warm smile. What should she say? Here was the woman… She had heard the stories. She was fierce… A force all on her own…
"Hello Elsa!" She said just as warmly. She had been a warrior. A true match to any man. And a Chiefs' wife for a time. Incredibly giving of her heart and time to her people. And seeing her now, Elsa felt woefully inadequate. Sure, she had her own strengths, and conceit be damned, she was pretty too. But this woman, -she was s sight to behold!
"What am I, -Am I… Dead?" Astrid smiled and shook her head.
"No, not just yet! -Elsa! What you did was incredible! And amazing! I'm not sure even I could have pulled that off!" She allowed herself a small snippet of pride. If the stories were true, this woman before her could have taken on the world, -and won. She smiled.
"Thank you, but if I'm not dead, then why…" Astrid smiled again.
"It seems you have gathered some attention! Someone wants to speak to you…" Just then, another came down the pathway to her. He wore a huge, white bearskin. A smallish helmet, with horns that stood straight out. His eyes, his nose… The Statue!
"Stoic? Stoic the Vast?" He smiled. There was a twinkle of mirth in his eyes. He nodded.
"Aye Lass! Stoic the Vast, I am! We are all very proud of you! We weren't too sure abou' you at first, But ye proved yerself just as noble and brave as the rest! Odin be praised!" He smiled and chuckled. And in that, she could see her Hiccup. Was she looking at him now? The way he would turn out eventually? Only time would tell. She thought she should say something.
"Hiccup, -He misses you both, -very much!" It sounded lame but, she meant it. Something seemed to pass over their eyes for a moment, she thought it strange… They both nodded. Stoic spoke.
"Aye! We miss him too! But, we'll all be together soon enough…" He stopped for a moment, then smiled and chuckled.
"Tell Hiccup to get busy! It'll be upon him before he's ready!" She was pretty sure what it was, and the implications of "Getting busy" caused her to blush a little. Stoic chuckled again. But something passed in front of Astrids' eyes. She detected a bit of sadness, then it was gone. She smiled once more.
Just then, another figure entered the room. He was thrice the size of Stoic the Vast. She didn't think it was possible. The other two bowed their heads and took a knee. The man wore a white robe. Underneath was a shining gold breastplate. His long, white hair was draped about his shoulders. He held a gold winged helmet in the crook of his right arm. A raven was perched upon his left shoulder. One eye was patched, but the other held the wisdom of the ages. She came under his scrutiny. She tried to rise and pay her respects, but the pain! He held up a hand and spoke in a voice familiar, but otherworldly…
"Elsa! Snær Drottnig! The Bane of Baal himself! Welcome my child!" She felt so small, so at a loss for words…
"My Lord!" She bowed her head. She felt naked and exposed. What could she, what should…
"Elsa! Daughter of Winter! The bane of the Bál Forað! You have done well! We are all proud, and sing your praises here in Valhalla!" She was a little embarrassed at the praise, she was just protecting the ones she loved…
"Elsa! You have rid Midgard of one of the last, great threats to man! And corrected one of our greatest miscalculations!" What!? The, the Gods? What…
"Elsa? Many years ago, we unleashed the dragons upon the Earth. A great battle ensued for control. It lasted for five generations!" She couldn't imagine…"When the battle was over, we gathered them all up, and placed them back in their world. However, some eluded our grasp, and escaped! They started breeding, and then a great thing happened! Man and dragons bonded! It was a time of great deeds and accomplishments! Ahhh! Such a time that will never be seen again!" She felt as if she knew this already… somehow…
"Hel Saw an opportunity, and released Baal upon the world. He enslaved men and dragons alike! Thousands were killed, and much of Midgard was laid waste! When it seemed like there was no hope, we sent Frawnelsa, to gather dragons of her own and do battle once and for all. The fight lasted months! When it seemed like all had been lost, Frawnelsa sacrificed herself to her own dragon, and defeated Baal. Most of his minions were destroyed, but a few remained, hidden inside the bowels of the earth…" That explained some of what she had thought, but…
"Most of the dragon lore had been lost. Men grew lazy, and in their misguided need for glory, slew most of the rest of the dragons. Most of them have escaped to where you now are. -Elsa, men grow lazier still! We Gods, especially the ones of the earth, of fire and ice, and of the wind… The powers wane. It is time for a new age to begin! The age of men, and their ways. We may yet return, but it will be many, many eons from now…" She knew this! It had been discussed in certain circles. Magic, the dragons, -it all made sense! The world was indeed changing, -but what…
"Elsa, we will charge you! You and the Haddock… Find the rest of the dragons, and bring them to the place… You have seen it! You know! Bring them to the portal, and we shall take them to where they belong!" The… Portal… The archway! In the middle of a vast, white wasteland! Yes! She knew but…
"Elsa, -Daughter, The dragons were never meant for the world of men. We had hoped they would once again bond, -but the time is past! Bring the dragons, so we may reunite them in their own world!" Yes, she understood, but… He held up his hand as if to sign.
"You, and the Haddock are granted a reprieve from your normal, human lives! You both are granted further understanding! You will know when they are near, and your bonds will be even deeper… Elsa, you are also granted reprieve from your powers. No longer will they be only tied to your emotions! They will still be at your call, -but Elsa, -remember! So as the Gods powers wane, -so do your own, and at a higher cost! Do not use them lightly! These two here, Stoic the Vast, and Astrid the Fierce, They shall guide you! Now go! Return to your world! There is much for you to do, and the Haddock waits…" He smiled a warm smile, and she instantly felt relieved. Un-pressured and unburdened, She was still unsure about the details, but she and Hiccup, They would work it out between them, And it would be alright! She bowed her head and he left them. She suddenly felt a wave of exhaustion wash over her… Strange…
Stoic then clapped his hands in front of him, and rubbed them together. He smiled at her.
"Fare thee well Elsa! We will be in touch with you soon!" She nodded and smiled back. Something, -again passed in front of Astrids' eyes, then it was gone. She turned and followed Stoic out. She stopped in the doorway and turned.
"Goodbye Elsa! Take good care of him won't you? He deserves you!" She shook her head, and smiled.
"No, He deserves you!" She stopped, her mouth dropped a little. After all, how could she possibly measure up… This woman, truly a goddess upon the earth… Then she supposed, Astrid was here, and Hiccup was there. She resolved to do what she could to measure up. And to ask this woman for guidance, -always. Astrid smiled, and thanked her. She then left.
She was hit by another wave, then another. She felt so tired! She laid back down. The room seemed to spin, slowly at first, then faster and faster. She fell into a deep, dreamless sleep…
She woke again some time later. This time, -familiar. As her eyes gained focus, the boards, the light sifting through them. The smells, -musty, with the smell of fresh-cut herbs and roasted fish. Homey. She was home, -well, in Hiccups' house. Judging by the angle and light, either early morning, or late afternoon.
She took stock of herself. She ached all over. Her neck, her back and ribs, -shoulders. She still hurt… everywhere! But not as intense as before. But that meant, -she was alive! She was alive, and home! She turned her head. Her neck creaked. Not exactly painful, her eyes traveled up the wall, across the ceiling. Nothing had changed. -And how long had she been out? She couldn't say, she had no evidence of time. It could have been days, or weeks… And something was on the bed to her right…
She made to get up, but her ribs protested violently. She looked, it wasn't a thing so much as a some one. She laid herself back down, drawing a hiss against the pain. She moved her hand a little, and her fingers brushed up against something. It was vaguely familiar. She rolled onto her side, ignoring the pain for now and looked.
His head and shoulders were on the bed. The rest of him she assumed, was on the floor. It looked like he'd fallen asleep watching her. It was a bit strange, but she couldn't help but feel warm and tingly. Just knowing he had been watching over her so diligently. She reached up and brushed his hair out of his eyes. It needed washed, -and cut. She then noticed the circles under his eyes. The poor guy! He had probably not slept much, worrying over her so. She promised to make it up to him as soon as she could move without pain.
She started carding her fingers through his hair, and he stirred a little. His breathing changed, and he rubbed his cheek on his hands. He then straightened, and rubbed his face and nose. He then crossed his arms on the bed and laid his head back down. A few short moments later, He lifted his head and put his chin on his hands and faced her. He blinked twice.
"Hi!" She told him. He smiled that wonderful, half smile. That crooked… Ach! If she wasn't in so much pain…
"Hi!" He told her, and after a few more moments- "How, how are you feeling?" One thing was sure…
"I'm better now. -Now that you're here…" The smile came back but she had a few questions…
"How, -how long have I been out?" He reached up and rubbed his face again, and laid it back down.
"Almost three weeks…" Three! Good Lord! She needed to get up, but she really couldn't, and should she? Maybe not… She felt alright just to sit here and gaze upon him for now…
"What, -what happened?" He straightened and stretched coming back to his original position. That smile came back…
"Oh, nothing much! You just leaped into the jaws of a giant dragon, managed to freeze it from the inside, and then somehow, blast it to bits! -That's all!" If she could move properly, she would give him a good swat… Maybe she would freeze him to the floor… She would think of something. She smiled nonetheless.
"I'm sorry, but I heard what you told Gustav… About burning her from the inside? -It seemed like a good idea at the time…" He looked at her incredulously, then frowned. Then that smile came back…
"I'm sorry, -it seems I'm a terrible influence on you…" She couldn't help the burst of laughter, but her ribs, she was cursing and laughing all at once, -damn him! A look of worry and concern crossed his face.
"Elsa! Oh Gods! I'm sorry! Can I, can I get you something?" Her laughter subsided, and she surprisingly felt a little better. But she would still have her revenge… Someday…
"Just, -just some water please, and maybe… I, don't think I could eat just now…" He nodded and took her hand and kissed it tenderly. He then left. She tried to scoot herself up a little, so she could sit. But her ribs! She must have broken a couple of them. And her back was protesting too, along with every joint. She must have fallen in to the remains of the queen and was pummeled. She hurt, but she was thankful she was alive.
Hiccup returned a few moments later with two steaming cups in his hands. He noted her position, and knelt on the bed. He offered his arm, and the other slid behind her back. She came up, and was about to scoot back, when he slid in behind her. She leaned back and rested against him. Reveling in his touch, his smell, the feel of him. She could feel his heartbeat, and when he spoke, the vibrations permeated her soul.
He handed her a cup. It smelled bad and tasted a little worse! For the pain, he explained. She downed it, and took a sip of the next. It was salty, but good! -And there were, small chunks of… fish? Ahh! So fish broth! It was good, and helped to take the taste of the medicine away. She got it about half-way down then stopped. She needed to know, -and she wanted to feel his voice.
"So, what else has happened?" He sighed, and drew a hand up. She guessed he rubbed his face, she couldn't tell exactly.
"Well, Ryker wouldn't submit, so we executed him in front of his men. Told the rest of them to get out, and not to return. We kept most of their ships, and gave them to the Murderous and the Lava Louts. Tarr is becoming quite the second hand, And they are doing well with the dragons so far…" The dragons!
"Hiccup! Jórunna! Is she…" She could feel him nod. Thank the Gods!
"She's alright! We think she has some broken ribs, but otherwise, she should be fine. Fjǫlmundr is helping to expand the nest, but I think we might move it even further away…" It made sense but, did he know? Did Astrid, or his father… visit him? This new development might worry him, but she chose not to think on it for now. She felt drowsy, perhaps from the medicine… Toothless was fine, or would be fine, and Eugene too! His warmth, his heartbeat, his voice, they were soothing and calming… She drifted off into another dreamless sleep…
She woke again, but she still couldn't know how long. And she was alone, or at least she thought she was. There was a buzzing in her ear. The boards, the planks of the roof… By the light, she guessed it was mid to late morning. The buzzing was insistent… She thought she might be hearing things, but no! It wasn't buzzing, it was, -a song… She knew that tune! Someone was humming a song close by. It was one Mama had taught her. Of mountain forests and fields, a hidden glen in the woods. There was a waterfall, where two young lovers were supposed to meet. -But one was late! So she sang to the waterfall in hope to speed his arrival. Mama would sing or hum this tune while Papa was away… Mama and Papa were gone, so who was it? She turned her head a little, -she froze.
She was sitting in a chair by the bed. She was sewing, -something. Or at least making an attempt. Her braids were hanging over her shoulders. She wore a light green tunic, and her skirt… Had she? Had she rode a dragon already? Well, -how else would she get here? She was intently focused on her work, when she apparently pricked her finger.
She cursed, and she had to stifle a giggle. She stuck the finger in her mouth, then glared at her work, either to set it on fire, or will the stitches into place. She couldn't tell which. She smiled. It seemed the extra responsibilities had not changed her much at least, not that she could tell anyway. Of all the things she left behind, she would be her only regret.
"Anna?" She called. She stopped and whipped her head around. The smile spread across her face like a fresh spring sunrise. She dropped her sewing and pounced on the bed. She scooped her up and hugged her tightly. Her ribs protested and her back, but she didn't care. Yes, -of all the things she left behind, this she missed most! She wrapped her own arms around her sister and clung tightly. Her eyes were wet. Partially from the pain, and partially from happiness. It was sweet, and they hung on to each other for a long while. Anna finally separated and held her at arms' length. She looked her over.
"Elsa? Are you alright? Can I get you something?" They locked eyes and noticed they were both crying. This enticed a laugh from the both of them, but ended in a hiss from her against the pain. Anna put a hand on her arm.
"Elsa?" She brought up a hand to stop any protests.
"I, -hurt all over, but I'm fine Anna -really!" She didn't look convinced, but thankfully didn't press. She changed the subject.
"Elsa! This place! This place is amazing! -And the dragons! Oh! I've kinda been flying your dragon all over, Hiccup says that if they're not flown often they get sloppy. I haven't picked my own yet, Hiccup says we should wait until you're better, but I don't see the point, I could just take out the orphans! You know, the ones without riders? Gjaflaug says I'm a natural, and so does Fishlegs! -But then, we kinda knew that already didn't we? Oooh! Hoark and Spitelout say they're looking to start up the dragon races again! Doesn't that sound exciting! I can't wait until…" ON and on she went… She could only smile as she tried to keep up. Although it had been annoying before, her prattling was sweet, sweet music to her ears! They were finally interrupted by two, no three sets of footsteps on the stairs.
The Gothi came in, followed by Valka, then Spitelout. Her bandages were removed, and her bruises checked. They then applied new dressings. Anna helped. Spitelout knelt beside the bed.
"Elsa? Lass? Would ye like ta go downstairs for a while? Yer bedding needs changed and ye could do well with a bit of sittin' up yes?" She nodded. It sounded glorious. He carried her downstairs, and put her in a chair in the kitchen, right in front of a plate of fish, bread and cheese. She was ravenously hungry, and wolfed it down. Anna looked on in shock, but only smiled. Even when her second helping arrived.
They had a few visitors during the course of the morning. Snotlout and Luna. Some of the women from the shop dropped by to offer gifts of food and herbs. Gobber had even stopped by to check in on her. Around noon, Rapunzel showed up, followed shortly after by Hiccup. He was mildly put out about her being out of bed, But she would hear none of it! Three weeks was quite long enough thank you!
The four of them spent the rest of the day together, and in the evening, had Eugene brought over in a cart. A fine stew was brought over from the hall, along with fresh bread and ale. After everyone had left, Hiccup drew her a bath. It felt glorious! Under Valkas' watchful eye, he helped her bathe, then insisted he get in after her. She washed his hair, and helped where she could. She attempted a few steps, but couldn't take more than three or four without almost toppling over. Her pain had lessened a little, but her legs…
After he had cleaned up, he carried her back upstairs. She really didn't want to get back in, but it had been a long day. And when Hiccup climbed in ahead of her, well, that was that. He laid on his side, and she shimmied up against him. It still hurt but with her moving around all day, -it seemed to have helped. The issue with her legs bothered her… Hiccup wrapped an arm around her and pulled her tight against him. She felt him kiss her hair, then move slightly. He kissed her tenderly on the neck. It sent a shiver all the way through her. She felt him yawn, and speak to her sleepily.
"Goodnight, Elsa! I love you!" She hugged his arm to her, then brought it up and kissed his hand. The bad things had passed, they were both alive and, -well, she would heal eventually. She thought on her visit to Valhalla. Hiccup would need to be told, but not now. They needed to finish up this business with the rest of the archipelago, but not now… And they needed to finish the preparations for their wedding, or weddings… But not now… She stretched and yawned widely herself, most unbecoming of a Queen she thought, but no matter… First things first…
"Goodnight, Hiccup! I love you too!"