The sun was shining. The air was warming. A few puffy clouds scattered all over the sky. It was a great day for flying. Except he could barely keep the dark thoughts at bay. The world seemed cold and dark anymore. He mulled the conversation forwards and backwards. It didn't seem real. He thought he might wake up in his bed at the palace, and this was all but a dream.
But it wasn't. She sent him away. Well, she said Toothless had to go. But she didn't seem to understand that it meant he had to go as well. Did she not, -care? Did this mean they weren't promised anymore? He groaned, this would just take him around in circles, thinking like this. He would believe she hadn't meant to send him away. Leaving a small hope that they were still courting. Until he heard from her that they weren't.
They flew out. He chanced a glance over his shoulder. The coastline was a mere shadow on the horizon. He thought he could see a small flash of bright light where the castle was. Clouds were forming over that spot. His chest clenched. He wanted to turn around and go back to her. But there didn't seem to be a point. Going back now, in broad daylight would only endanger Toothless. Maybe she would change her mind. He could see her point. She had been raised to believe dragons were dangerous. Just like he had been. It had taken effort, and a life-changing event to change things in Berk. So maybe…
They flew on, at a high altitude. From the ground, they would look like a bird. He figured it would take them most of a day to reach Corona. Much like the last leg to Arendelle. Only this time, there was a smattering of islands in between. They would stop and rest, have something to eat, then continue. He wondered why, given the current, -situation, He was going. He had made a promise to see them before he headed north. And until he heard differently, he would speak with her family as well.
Toothless let out a croon. He turned his head side to side, sniffing. Hiccup caught the scent too. Burning wood, and pitch. The smell of a ship burning. He looked down, but couldn't really see anything. A few boards, and three barrels floating in the water. About five miles in the distance, he saw a ship sailing away from them. Maybe they were seeing trash from that ship? But he couldn't deny that distinct smell. A ship being put to the torch. He had some experience with that. He pushed those thoughts aside. No need to add to the pile.
They landed on a small button of an island an hour later. Toothless manged to catch several fish, and had manged to save him one. The dragon napped, digesting his meal. He decided to look at his map and check their position. Rummaging through the saddlebag, his finger brushed against something. It was cool, almost cold to the touch. Taking the crystal out, he immediately noticed his image was gone from it, leaving only hers. The point of light in her chest flickered, and instead of a small smile, she looked sad. It made a little sense when he thought about it. Yes, they were apart now, that was painfully obvious. But the why still eluded him. Surely a gift like this meant something. Holding it up, he looked at her image. It made his heart clench thinking of her, being so sad. He held it in his fingers and studied it.
Through the crystal, he saw a disturbance in the water beyond the surf. Toothless' head shot up. Looking in the same direction. He sniffed, then huffed. He stood on his front legs, ear-flaps erect. He huffed again, shaking his head. Just beyond the surf, he thought he could see a log, or maybe a ships' mast sticking out of the water. In the span of a swell, it was gone. It looked so familiar, but he couldn't place it. Toothless stamped his feet and huffed. The thought was gone. Was this the same -disturbance- that the dragon had felt in Arendelle, or something different?
He leapt on Toothless' back. They shot up into the sky. Looking down into the water, he could see a dark shape moving into deeper water. Just a glimpse, he couldn't make it out. They hovered for a few moments. Toothless shook his head, growling.
"What is it Bud?" The dragon snorted, then crooned. Maybe he was thinking it was familiar too. He wished he could speak. Either of them. It didn't make any sense. He had seen no sign since coming south. But it didn't mean something wasn't out there. Was it a dragon? And was it something new? Or something they had dealt with, -before? He shivered. Thinking of his new friends dealing with this sort of thing… He didn't want to think about it. It was hard enough dealing with, -that- when he had help.
They landed back on the beach. Hiccup grabbed a journal. He needed to take notes on what he saw and the time of day. What direction it was headed. He flipped through, looking for a blank page. He stopped. Opening the book, he saw, -her. It was the drawing he made in the forge after their first meeting. He smiled, thinking of that evening. The awkwardness. They had come a long way since. But now, it seemed they were further apart than ever. He sighed, and traced a finger along the line making up her cheek. He wished he could do that now. It was a comfort for him. He felt, or at least hoped, sometime, -somewhere he would be able to.
He cleaned up their campsite and packed the saddlebags. He looked upon the crystal one more time. He slipped it into a pocket inside his armor, next to his heart. The chill seemed to seep through. He thought he might make it a pendant or something when he got back. He tied the bags to Toothless, and they took off. He directed him in ever-widening circles. Searching for whatever it was they saw. It was gone now. He hoped it would show itself sooner, rather than later. He began to formulate plans. He shivered again. He hoped it wouldn't come down to a fight. Alone, so far from help. But maybe it wouldn't come to that…
They made it by late afternoon.. Taking a few circuits around the town and the surrounding countryside, he noted a small similarity. The castle was situated on a island in the middle of a natural harbor. Instead of being surrounded by steep cliffs and mountains, there were rolling hills. It seemed the castle didn't take up all of the land thereon, but most of it. There were a number of shops of all kinds on the front section. A modest dock complex took up one side of the island as well. The other side of the harbor held more docks and shops. There was also a long pier where it appeared ships' repairs were being made. As he flew over the mainland, he saw vast fields stretching into the distance. Yes, the land of Corona had it all. A very rich Kingdom indeed!
They flew in a wider circle. He noted a depression in a hillside in the distance. Drawing closer, he saw it was a cove like the one he had met Toothless in. Except this one had a large tower in the middle of it. It was deeper too, with steeper sides. This must be Rapunzels' tower! The one she had told him of. The very one where she was held as a unknowing captive of a witch. He directed Toothless towards it. It would be a slightly tricky landing with the steeper walls. Toothless managed, landing a little heavy. It had been a long day. He took in his surroundings. It looked like some giant had pushed a cup or mug straight into the hill, and simply drew out all the rock. The floor of the cove was covered in soft grass, and wildflowers. there were a few trees growing here and there. A waterfall fed from a clear lake was in the back. it turned into a tiny stream that flowed through and out a cave on one end of the cove.
Hiccup changed clothes. He put on one of his finer tunics, and pulled on a pair of clean pants. He tied his sword to his side, and topped it off with his bearskin cloak. He left the circlet in Arendelle. He didn't think it would be necessary. Rapunzel and Eugene would vouch for him. He slipped his dagger in his sash, just in case. He walked through the short cave. The entrance was covered in vines and weeds. After he had passed through it he turned. He couldn't tell there was even a dark spot in the cliff face. It was perfectly camouflaged.
He found a road, or at least something that passed for a road. It was just a track through the woods. There were ruts in the path from the passage of several carts. A short bit of walking brought him in front of an inn. There was a sign on the front with a duck on it. It read: "The Snugly Duckling." He thought about going in and asking for a horse. The raucous sounds coming from inside sounded like a fight of major proportions was happening in there. Breaking glass, tables being shoved around. He thought better of it and continued on. From what he could see from above. He would be at the castle soon enough.
He reached the bridge leading to the town and the castle within. It was impressive from the air. But standing on ground level with it, it was more so. It reminded him a lot of Arendelle, except for the colors. Brighter, earthy tones dominated. It seemed like every available spot of land was either a street, or a building. They were all packed together. And the smells! All sorts of aromas filled his nostrils. Food, bread, and ale. It was a lot to take in. He would have Rapunzel and Eugene show him around. He simply must find the sources of these heavenly scents! There were people of all shapes and sizes milling about. He couldn't discern a particular type of style to their clothing. They all seemed happy, or at least pleasant.
After getting directions, he soon found himself at the castle gates. Two guards were standing post. They wore dark pants, and had breastplates of brass. A sun was emblazoned on them. He recognized the symbol. They had helmets of the same gold-colored metal. They both held halberds. He introduced himself, and asked after the Prince and Princess. They eyed him suspiciously. One called out.
"Visitor at the gates! For the Prince and Princess!" A few moments later, another three uniformed guards appeared. They were all dressed in the same fashion, except one wore a helmet crested in black and red horsehair. He was an officer, he decided.
"Good evening! I am Hiccup Horrendous Haddock the Third! Chief of the Vikings of Berk! Emissary of the entire Viking Archipelago! I have come to visit Prince Eugene and Princess Rapunzel." The man didn't bow, or even flinch for that matter. He thought it a little odd. Maybe things were different here in Corona? The officer looked him up and down.
"Follow me please." He said rather curtly. He led him up a flight of stairs, and down a couple of hallways. The castle was appointed in tapestries and rich cloths of gold, purple and red. They finally came to a huge set of doors with four guards posted. The officer bid him wait, and went inside. Again, he thought it was a little odd. No show of respect, only terse, professional responses. What was going on here?
After a few moments of a discussion he couldn't hear, he was let in. It was the throne room. He was led in across a carpeted floor. The King and Queen sat on their thrones, concerned looks on their faces. He bowed respectfully and introduced himself. The king nodded curtly.
"Tell us Hiccup Haddock, what do you know of my daughter and her husband?" His expression was grave.
"I met them in Arendelle, your majesty! I, ah -also met your niece and…" Should he say?
"Can you tell us where they are now?" What? Were they not here?
"No! Your highness, they left Arendelle three days ago on their ship." He would need to be careful here. The king furrowed his brow, and cast a worried look at the queen. She spoke.
"They are overdue then. Did you encounter any storms on your way? Did they mention stopping anywhere along the way?" He thought her voice wavered slightly.
"No, your highness. I only encountered one other ship along the way…" He remembered that ship, sailing away from, -that garbage? Or was it debris from… Oh NO! The burning smell. The floating barrels! He didn't school his features quick enough.
"What? What is it? Did you see something? Anything?" The king said. It was too late now…
"I'm not sure… Please! May I have a look at a map your majesty? I, I think I may have -seen something…" The queens' hands rose to her mouth in shock. The King spoke.
"Yes! Yes, of course! Follow me!" They left the throne room. At the end of the hallway they entered another room. There were high-ranking officers in the room, all bent over a map. They paid their respect to their king, but eyed Hiccup suspiciously. He went to the table, and went over the map with his eyes. He picked out Arendelle, then Corona. The islands they rested on… There! He laid a finger on the map.
"I saw some planks and barrels floating in the water here. There was still smoke in the air, I could smell it! There was another ship about five miles in the distance, sailing in this direction…" He traced a finger eastwards. The island they had rested on were an entire chain stretching several miles. That ship had a head-start, but nothing could outrun a Night Fury. He turned to the king.
"Please! Your Majesty. May I have another map like this one? And, could I bother you for two large saddlebags? One with food for three days, the other with medical supplies?" He needed to get out there, before they got much further.
"What are you planning to do?" The King asked.
"I'm going out there and I'm going to bring them back." He said. He could feel his anger rise. These people would be ruthless. The thought of Rapunzel held captive by them made his blood boil. He pushed those thoughts aside. He needed a clear head, and a plan.
"How are you going to do that?" One of the officers spoke up.
"How is not important right now, you should prepare your fastest ship! Meet me at the spot I indicated!" He glared at the man. He didn't flinch. Instead, his face twisted and went red.
"Who do you think you are? Coming in here, and ordering us about! You are but a boy! How could you possibly…" Hiccup cut him off. They were wasting time.
"I am Hiccup Horrendous Haddock the Third! Chief of the Vikings of Berk! I have fought several battles against man and beast! You would do well to heed my counsel!" All the men, including the King straightened. They all considered him with a variety of looks. Another officer spoke.
"Chief? What manner of title is that? Do you expect us to…" The king roared. It was very impressive.
"ENOUGH! Gentlemen, from what I understand of the Vikings, A chief is the leader of a tribe! He is an equal to myself! I'll not have you disrespect him in any matter! IS THAT CLEAR?" The men all shrunk back a little. He liked this King already. He turned to Hiccup, and spoke again.
"Admiral! Prepare our fastest ship! Have it leave as soon as practical, and meet Chief Haddock at the spot he indicated! I want two more ships out with the tide. Have them hunt down any others who would do harm… Now, GO!" They all bowed to their king. To Hiccups' surprise, He received bows as well as a few murmured apologies. The king then turned to a man in a different kind of uniform. Probably a castle staff member, if he had to guess.
"Geoffrey! Go to the kitchens, and have a saddlebag packed for Lord Haddock. Have them bring food and refreshment up to the private dining room. And have another bag packed with healing supplies immediately!" The man bowed and left the room hurriedly. Hiccup followed the king out of the door. The queen was waiting in the hallway. They made their way through the castle. Down a few passages, and up two more flights of stairs. They finally reached the dining room. It looked much like the one in Arendelle, albeit a little larger.
The servants were already preparing the room when they entered. The king and queen bid him sit. The king offered apologies, they had not any dealings with vikings since he was very young. Hiccup waved him off. He understood he was young to be in this position. The queen spoke next.
"Tell us what you know of our daughter, and of Eugene." There was a look of genuine concern on both their faces. He told them of how he found himself in Arendelle, and meeting the queen. He left out the finer details for now. The servants started setting food in front of him, and he ate quickly. He told them of the time he spent with the couple, and his fondness for Rapunzel. The king and queen shared a look, and smiled at each other. He was glad to offer some small comfort to them.
"There is another matter that needs discussed, but there isn't much time." He paused, not sure if, or how…"Ahhh, your niece, the Queen. She and I, well… we -met and, we have -fallen for each other." The queens' eyes went wide, her hands rose to her face. The king smiled, then nodded. The queens' hands clasped over her heart. She offered him a fond smile as well.
"Well then! We will have much to discuss on your return Lord Haddock!" He cocked an eyebrow, but his eyes were shining.
"I, umm, yes! I, -I cannot stay long. I must return to my tribe soon. But I promise to explain everything when I get back." He told them. A servant entered carrying two saddle bags. He stood and accepted them. There was also a map included with the supplies.
"If I may? Could I trouble you for a horse?" He needed to get to Toothless quickly.
"Of course! Geoffrey! Have Maximus saddled immediately!" He turned to him "Maximus is her horse, and is the fastest in the kingdom!" Hiccup offered his thanks. The queen stepped up to him and placed a hand on his arm. She looked at him pleadingly.
"Please! Bring my daughter back!"
"I will!" He told her. The king nodded at him. An officer of the guard came up to him and bowed. "Lieutenant Schaeffer! At your service! This way, My Lord!" He followed the man out. They soon found themselves at the palace doors. A very large white stallion was being led up. He was offered the reins. The horse looked him in the eye, as if testing his very soul. Much like Toothless did. Which is what prompted him to do what he did next…
"Uhh, Hey Max, -Maximus!" He stroked his forehead, and scratched his jaw. "I'm Hiccup! Look, The Princess may be in trouble. I'm going to go find her." Maximus' eyes went wide, then he seemed to relax a little under his ministrations. "I, I haven't rode many horses, but I need all the speed you can give. Can, can you do that?" Max considered him for a moment, then shook his head and whinnied loudly. He tossed his head in the direction of the saddle and snorted. Hiccup nodded, then climbed in the saddle. The prosthetic was, -troublesome. He'd have to think of a solution. -Later, he thought. There were more pressing issues at hand.
Maximus reared, Hiccup had to grab the saddle, least he fall. The horse then took off like a bolt from a crossbow. Hiccup spoke to him again.
"The tower! In the woods! Do you know where that is?" Max whinnied, and snorted. Good! He could then just concentrate on staying on his back. It was very difficult. They were careening through the streets at breakneck speed. Soon they reached the bridge and crossed it. The ride smoothed a little. At least they weren't turning and jumping as much. Maximus was indeed fast! He had never ridden a horse at such a pace before. They had gone into the woods a few miles, when all of a sudden, Maximus slid to a stop.
He seemed to consider the road ahead, then looked to his right. Hiccup didn't know what to think. Max looked down the road again, then right again. He snorted. Hiccup followed his gaze and noticed the inn he had passed on his way in. Max turned, headed for the door.
"Maximus? What, what are you doing? We have to go! Please!" Max only snorted. He kicked the door open with a hoof, and walked in. Hiccup had to duck, or get clobbered by the door frame. He looked around the room, and gulped dryly. The room was packed with men of all shapes and sizes, all of them larger than he. Some of them could have been vikings. Large horned helmets, large frame. If they meant to do him ill, they wouldn't stand a chance. Someone spoke from across the room.
"Maximus? What're you doin' here?" A large, round man stepped out. He was bald, except for a strange looking mustache. He had a hook in place of his left hand. A large heavy axe was strapped to his back. Max whinnied and snorted, then tossed his head back. He seemed to just now notice his rider.
"Who are you? And what are you doing with this horse?" The man sneered at him. His blood ran cold. He straightened and stuck out his chin. He would have to trust Max.
"I am Hiccup Haddock the Third! The Princess Rapunzel may be in trouble. I'm going out to find her, and bring her back!" The mans' expression instantly changed to one of shock and concern. Indeed, a hush fell over the room as a whole.
"They left Arendelle three days ago. On my way here, I came across some debris in the water. There was another ship nearby, sailing away. Can you help?" Hiccup doubted, and they were wasting time. The round man spoke.
"Yeah, we heard there was a pirate causing trouble. His name is Othmane, not a pleasant fellow. What do you plan to do Hiccup Haddock?"
"I'm going to find this ship, take it, and sail it back to Corona!" The whole room burst into laughter. It immediately set his blood to boiling. He drew his sword from his belt. He pushed one button, then another. The blade sprang forth from the handle, then ignited. He held it high then spoke in a low tone.
"You know, people used to laugh at me, and call me names. They even went so far as to call me useless. Now, I am their Chief! I have fought many battles. Against men and dragons. I have improved the lives of thousands! And I have changed the course of destiny for all of my people. Are you going to help me or not?" The room was dead silent. To a man, their eyes shifted from him, then to the flaming sword, then back. The man spoke again.
"Tell us where Chief! And we will do what we can!" Hiccup withdrew his sword and clipped it to his belt. He took out the map and showed them the spot.
"The King has ordered a ship to leave immediately. I don't have to tell you, the sooner the better! I can take the ship! Holding it will be another matter, You must get out there quickly! I will secure the prince and princess. The rest, well…" He trailed off. No need to explain it further. The man started barking orders. They all sprang into action. Satisfied, he turned to Hiccup and raised an eyebrow.
"You know, it's going to take more than a flaming sword to take a ship. How do you plan to do it?" He eyed him suspiciously. Hiccup grinned.
"I guess you'll have to come out there and see…" The man nodded.
"We'll see you in the morning." Hiccup gave him a single nod. He rolled up the map and put it away. He led Maximus out the door, and climbed in the saddle.
"Good luck Chief Haddock!" he heard over his shoulder. And they took off again. Maxs' speed impressed him. Another ten minutes and they reached the entrance to the valley. He dismounted, taking the bags and setting them on the ground. He took hold of his halter, and ran his hands over Maxs' face. He scratched him on the jaw. Then rested their heads together.
"Thank you Maximus. You are an awesome horse!" He lidded his eyes and snorted. He then pushed his snout into Hiccups' chest and whinnied. "Yeah, I really should go…"
A rustling noise caught Maxs' attention. He lowered his head, peering through the wall of vines that covered the entrance. "Uuuh Max, you might not like what you see in there." The horse looked at him and snorted. This may not go well. Toothless liked horses, but not in a way they would like.
Max poked his head through the vines. He then stepped into the entrance. Hiccup followed. He grabbed the reins, but let the horse lead. They reached the end of the cave not finding anything. Maximus looked from one side to the next. He was about to turn when there was a rush of wind and a ground-shaking thump. Toothless landed thirty feet in front of them. Maximus screamed and reared. His arm was nearly yanked out of its' socket. The dragon screeched and roared, baring his teeth. Max stamped his feet and snorted. It seemed he was going after Toothless. He had to placate them both and quickly.
"WHOA! Whoa, Max! Toothless!" He held up a hand to the dragon. He calmed a little. Max calmed as well, but kept his defensive stance. He grabbed his halter to look the horse in the eye.
"He's a friend" Max looked at him, then at the dragon, then back. He relaxed a little. He let go of Max slowly, then walked to Toothless. He rubbed the dragon on the head, and scratched his jaw. Toothless bumped his snout into his chest and grunted.
"Toothless, this is Maximus. He is a friend of a friend. Maximus, this is Toothless! He is my best friend." The two creatures eyed each other cautiously. Toothless grunted and cooed.
"NO! No, you can't eat him!" Max raised his head, startled. He lowered it narrowing his eyes at the dragon. He took a few purposeful steps forward.
"Toothless is going to help me find Rapunzel, aren't you Bud?" Toothless looked at him and crooned. He nodded his head once and snorted. He then turned back to Max. The horse looked at Hiccup, then back at Toothless. He whinnied in his throat. He took a few more steps, until he was nose to nose with Toothless. He sniffed Toothless tentatively. His ears dropped, he whinnied softly and snorted. Toothless took a slow step forward and sniffed Maximus. He raised his head and looked the horse in the eye. There was a moment of consideration. Toothless bumped Maxs' head with his own and huffed.
Hiccup walked back up to Max and took hold of his halter. He ran his hand over his face and scratched his jaw. "Max, we really need to go. Don't worry, we'll find them and bring them back." Max whinnied softly and snorted. He turned and walked back towards the entrance. He looked back and snorted. He walked through the entrance and was gone, his galloping footfalls fading in the distance.
Hiccup quickly changed into his armor. Checking that everything was in place and working. He also checked the flying rig. He checked the map once more, then tied the saddlebags onto Toothless. He then jumped into the saddle.
"OK, do you remember the spot where we smelled the burning?" Toothless huffed. "We're heading in that direction. And we need all the speed you can give us! My friends are out there, and they may be in trouble!" Toothless cooed and grunted. He set his tailfin, and Toothless shot up in the sky like an arrow. A short, tight turn to get their bearings, then they shot off.
She hurt, all over. There was pain in her jaw, on her arm. She thought she might have a cracked rib, but it was probably just bruised. She could still taste blood from the split lip she knew was there. She pulled her thoughts away from her own worries. She thought of all those brave men who tried to save her. Captain Niefman, whom she had known from her teens. She didn't know his fate, nor the fate of the other officers and crew. But worst of all, she didn't know if her husband was alive.
It had started out as another beautiful day. The seas were calm, and the air was warming. She really loved her cousins, but their kingdom was always a little chilly for her liking. She was looking forward to getting home and the familiar comforts it brought. Lieutenant Boront had come in to report a sail in the distance. Eugene had left her to go up on deck. She was reading a book, when she started to hear the shouting. The sound of men running upon the decks. The lieutenant had come back with a worried look on his face, and bid her stay here. He locked her door on his way out.
The next things she heard were the muffled shouts of orders. More footsteps, men running to and fro. Then the clash of steel upon steel. She tried to remain calm. She busied herself around the cabin. She gathered her medical supplies. She would help with the wounded. She collected a sword and a dagger. The sword she placed next to the door, the dagger was kept close. She would defend herself if she had to. She had read plenty of stories and reports of what pirates sometimes did to their captives. None of them had ended well.
She ran to the back of the cabin and unlocked the windows. If all else failed, she would take her chances. She heard more shouting and sounds of battle. As she looked out of the windows, she could see some of the victims floating in the water. She started to panic. She couldn't tell if Eugene was among them. There was a heavy thump, and the boat shuddered. Then she smelled smoke. The clashes of steel seemed to lessen. She heard footsteps outside her door then there was a knock.
"Princess? It, -it's Lieutenant Boront… Princess?" The was another pause. She moved towards the door and picked up the sword.
"PRINCESS! GO! RU… AAAAAAaaghhh" There was a heavy thump. Then the door burst open. She swung, connecting with the first person through the door. the man screamed and crumpled. She then tried a back-swing for the next man. The blade was too heavy for her, and thus her swing was slow and easily parried. She looked up just as a heavy gloved fist contacted the side of her face. Blackness quickly overtook her.
She woke up several hours later. She was lying on a polished wooden floor. the world spun as she raised her head. It was pounding viciously. She felt nauseous. She fought through it, and raised herself to a sitting position. It was then she realized her wrists were shackled. there was a chain attached to them. It lead around a heavy post that supported the floor above. She looked around, There were all manner of chests along the walls of the room. One wall was nothing but windows. There was a very large table in the middle of the room. She could tell there were maps on it. This must be the captains' cabin she thought. She searched the room further, but there was no sign of Eugene. She feared the worst. Had he died try to protect her? She hoped at least he had been taken prisoner as well. She doubted it. She knew he would do anything to keep her safe.
She heard footsteps outside the door. Then a clinking sound as if someone fumbling with a lock. The door opened revealing a fearsome countenance. He was over six feet tall. He was maybe in his mid-to-late thirties. His hair was dark and long. A dark wisp of a beard was on his chin. He wore a red and green coat, with an awful mix of a gaudy shirt and vest, with pantaloons gathered around his knees. He had high pointy boots on his feet and it was topped off with a wide-brimmed black hat trimmed in gold. What got her attention were his eyes. Cold and calculating. He took a few steps into the room and looked upon her. He was almost leering. Her blood ran cold. She could only imagine what kind of thoughts were running through that mind. He seemed to almost catch himself, and cleared his throat.
"Ah! You're awake! F'give me princess for yer rough handlin'. I'll have the dog what hit you punished fer shore!" He smiled a small smile. She wasn't sure if it was because he was going to inflict pain on another, or something else…
"I am Captain Othmane! Recently from the Southern Isles, by way of Weselton." He bowed with flourish and show. Maybe he wanted to impress her… It wasn't working.
"What do you plan to do with me? And where is the Prince?" She wasn't sure she wanted an answer to either question. She needed to ask.
"With you? Nothing! So long as ya behave yerself. I've a mind ta ransom ya to yer father. Or maybe just sell you on the blocks at Thaban Watan! Or maybe see 'ow much gold or silver I can fetch fer ye to one of yer enemies… As for yer Prince, -'ee's alive for now. So don't go makin' no trouble, or I'll bring him to ye… one piece at a time!" She shuddered. There was that small smile again. She was sure of it, he actually liked inflicting pain on others. This was so very bad, on so many levels. He looked her up and down leering. He cackled and walked out the door locking it behind him.
Her mind started racing. At least Eugene was alive. But for how long? And was this Othmane telling the truth? Had he just told her that so she would be less likely to cause trouble? She couldn't say for sure. Her head started throbbing again. She shifted toward the post and used it to drag herself to her feet. She felt the nausea again, but not as strongly. She was still a little dizzy, her feet unsure.
She looked out the window. It was early evening by the look of the sunlight. She had to get out of this, somehow. There was nothing nearby she could use as a weapon. Nothing to defend herself with. She could only move about three feet away from the post, chained as she was. She eyed the table. There was a plate of food sitting on it. Some crusty bread, and what looked like chicken. She was hungry, but it didn't look too savory. So there would be no one coming in to check on her. Not for a while. She took the bread and after inspecting it started to nibble on it. It was a few days old, but slightly good. She slumped to her butt. Her back against the post. She drew her legs in, tenting her dress, and wrapped her arms around them.
She started awake sometime later. A dangerous mistake. She listened, there were no sounds except for the occasional creek of wood. She could hear footsteps on the deck above. Her head was still pounding, but not as sharply as before. She looked around. Light was filtering in from what must be a nearly full moon. She stood slowly. The metal of her chains clinked softly. She froze. She still wasn't positive she was alone. Looking out the windows, she imagined it was a glorious night, given different circumstances. She chided herself. She should not be thinking such things. She was in a bad situation. She needed to be thinking of a way out.
Just then the light blinked, as if something had passed in front of the moon. She looked out again and saw, -something. She wasn't sure. A shadow? A curious patch of blackness, then it was gone. She wondered if she was suffering the effects of that blow to her head. She looked around the room once more. Moving what little she could. Her eyes had adjusted to the light and could make out more details of the room. Nothing seemed to have been moved. The bed seemed empty. She breathed a small sigh of relief. She was safe for now, but she didn't know how long that would last.
She heard footsteps moving quickly about the deck above. A muffled shout, then more footsteps. This time. seeming to come from the front of the ship. After a few moments, she could hear some kind of muffled conversation going on. She could tell the sound of Othmanes' voice. She couldn't hear everything clearly, until she heard…"Take my ship?" There was raucous laughter for more than a few moments. She then heard a sound she would remember for the rest of her days. A screeching whistle that grew in volume and pitch. It made her blood run cold.
There was then a loud thump on the deck above, as if something very heavy had been dropped on it. She could hear a few of the boards creek and crack under the weight and force of the blow. Indeed, the whole ship shuddered from the impact. There was a screeching roar, vibrating her whole surroundings. She didn't think her blood could run any colder, but it was. She heard mens' screams, then two distinct splashes. Impossibly heavy footfalls of something on the deck above. She heard another scream that was cut off suddenly. The boat tilted slightly. It was either from the ship being turned, or the sheer weight of, -whatever it was on the ship now. She couldn't tell.
Strangely enough, a thought of Hiccup popped into her head. His vibrant green eyes, the mop of auburn hair. There was a gentleness about him, but her cousin had told her of the way he had stood up to her general. There was force of presence, and a sense of command that had sent her own insides for a flip. He was supposed to come visit them before he went north. She wondered if he was there now, and what he would do if he thought them missing…
She quickly banished those thoughts. It was silly. There was another muffled conversation. Words exchanged. The ship moved again, then another heavy thump. More men screaming. She was terrified. Whatever it was, it struck fear into these hardened men. More splashes. Another man screamed. It faded away. A few moments later, there was a dull thump. It sounded like a sack of grain hitting the deck. She heard another voice. It sounded somewhat familiar, but heavily muffled.
"I am your captain now! Do as I say, and I won't feed you to the dragon!" She gasped. Dragon? There were no dragons anymore! They had all died off, or had been slain. But it would explain the noises, the roar that sent her blood chilling. There was another screeching roar. The noise making its' way to her very soul. This was an entirely different sort of bad. A man with a dragon! This was so much worse! A man might be reasoned with, a dragon…
She heard the voice again shouting orders. "You! Up on the wheel! You two! Take the prisoner, and put him in there!" Men were scurrying all about. She heard a loud screech.
"Turn this ship around! NOW!" The voice ordered. There was no gainsaying. Whoever this person was, there was no argument. No negotiations. She shivered. She didn't think her situation could get any worse. Another roar, and a blood-curdling growl. A few moments later, she heard someone fumbling with the lock on the door. This was it, she thought. She would now see her new captor. She stood straight, chin up. She would be defiant to the end.
The door opened, two men came in dragging a third. "There! On the bed!" A fourth man came in. She locked her eyes on him. He was holding a sword. She couldn't discern any significant features in the dim light. He was tall, but not large. There was a commanding presence about him. It looked like he had a mask over his face. The two men placed the third on the bed. The man groaned. The other two made to leave.
"If anyone comes near that door, the dragon has orders to eat him!" Another screeching roar. Even more loud and blood-curdling, through the now-open door. Why did his voice sound so familiar? It was a curious thought. This man with a dragon, she should be terrified. But. That. Voice…
He watched the two men leave. He considered the man on the bed, then looked her way. Her blood went cold. He stalked towards her. She was frozen in fear. He took slow, calculating steps. He raised his hands, palms out. In his fingers, he held a key. This was, -strange. Was he, going to, -release her? She relaxed only slightly. He slowly reached out and took her hand, -very gently. As if she would break. He unlocked one wrist, then the other. Before she could blink, he took hold of them.
"Stay here!" He told her quietly. "Don't leave this room!" He then backed away just as slowly. Hands up, palms out. She took a few tentative steps rubbing her wrists.
When he had reached the door, he went through quickly. "Toothless!" She heard him say, Forcefully but quietly. There was a murmured -conversation? With the dragon?! The dragon huffed, and grunted. She could now see the both of them through the open door. He was running his hands over the dragons' head, talking to it. He was talking to, -to the dragon? This was strange enough, she thought. Even stranger was the dragon seemed to understand him! The dragon huffed again, and made a cooing sound. The beast then seemed to notice her. Its' yellow-green eyes stood out against his black hide. The eyes locked onto her. The dragon tilted its' head, ears standing erect. As if it were a curious dog! It then opened its' mouth, his tongue flopped out. This was just bizarre! If it weren't for the potentially bad outcome of this night, She would like to see this, this -dragon!
The man entered the room again, and closed the door behind him. He threw the bolt. Now she was locked in here with him. Her fear began to overtake her again. The man walked past her and set something down on the table. It looked like a couple of saddlebags. He opened one and rifled through it. He produced something from it. A spark was struck, then another. A candle was lit. He took it up and finding a lantern, lit it.
He continued around the room lighting candles. He set the one by the bed, and sat down. He checked the man for injuries, as a healer would. She had forgotten all about the man on the bed. Her focus was her new captor, and the strange turn of events. He wore a helmet that covered his face. He wore armor of a sort she had never seen. He checked the mans' arms and legs . The man groaned. It snapped her out of her reverie. She walked closer to the bed, keeping her distance from the other. It was Eugene on the bed! He was alive! Her excitement was tempered by her captor, who was paying her no mind at the moment. She finally found her voice.
"Who are you?" She frowned at him. This night was getting stranger by the minute. He looked at her. He had green eyes. He looked her up and down, settling on her face. The eyes seemed to turn grave. He stood and reached for her. She recoiled, and repeated her question.
"Who are you?" The man straightened. "Oh! S, -sorry!" One hand reached behind his head and the other grasped the bottom of the mask. He peeled off the helmet. She had never been so happy to see a familiar face!
"Hiccup? -Hiccup! -OH!" She attacked him in a fierce hug. She wept openly. He was shushing her vehemently. One arm came around her shoulders, the other around her back. His hand on the back of her head.
"It's OK! Shhhh! It's alright! We're here to rescue you!" She sobbed heavily into his chest.
"Hiccup! I was, -so frightened! I, I didn't know what was going to happen! I, I…" She lost her words again to her relief and joy. He rocked her ever so gently.
"It's alright Rapunzel. Here, let me look at you." He separated from her. He took her chin in his fingers, and turned her head side to side. He was intently looking at her face. He brought a hand up and touched her cheek. A small bolt of pain shot through. She winced. He dropped his hands to grab her wrists. He was very gentle as he examined her wrists and arms. He took her shoulders, then looked her in the eye.
"Are you alright?" He was serious and focused.
"Yes, I'm fine. A little sore, but I, -I'm OK!" A shadow seemed to cross his features. It surprised her a little.
"I took care of him! He won't bother anyone any more!" He looked askance. The shadow seemed to grow more intense. His grip on her shoulders tightened. And then it was gone. He looked back upon her.
"Rapunzel? Stay here and take care of Eugene. I have to go up on deck. I'll stay there. Don't come out of this room!'" He shook her for a point. She nodded. "I have to keep them believing I'm some sort of demon! Your father has sent ships, and Maximus and I contacted some friends of yours. If, if something should happen, go out the window. Toothless will help, he knows you are friends! You must trust him." This got her attention.
"Tooth, -Toothless? A dragon named Toothless?" His mouth curled into a grin. She could see why Elsa had fallen for him.
"Yeah, it's, -it's a long story… For later. There's food in one bag, and medicines in the other. Now, stay here, and don't come out!" She nodded. He put his helmet back on, Then took two steps towards the door, then stopped. He looked at her considering.
"One more thing… Scream!" She looked at him curiously. He gestured with his hand.
"Scream!" She didn't quite get what he was after.
"You know? Blood-sucking, soul-stealing demon?" He said quietly, but forcefully. Oh… Oooohhh! She remembered her fear and uncertainty, then obliged, not one, but three of the most heart-wrenching screams she could come out with. He slammed the door behind him. She could hear his maniacal laugh through the door. She sighed and shook her head. She took the bags from the table and sat on the bed. She caressed Eugenes' face.
"R, Rapunzel? What, what's going on?' She shushed him gently. She leaned down and kissed his forehead tenderly.
"Shhh, my Prince! It's going to be alright."