Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The wind was cold and freezing with snow in any direction you looked. It was as if Devastating Winter was upon them even though the winds were not as harsh. At least not as harsh as they had been earlier. Their boats were long behind the men as they trudged their way through the deep snow. The men were robust and tall wearing leathers and furs that would keep them warm in the harsh climate. Upon their heads sat helmets with varying different horns for each man. It was what signified them all as Vikings. But what were they doing this far north far from their homes? Many had never been this far north before, but they had a job to do. For the small group of men were scouting. As rumors about the north kept growing more and more with taller and wilder tales and stories it was to the point that the parts of the world close to the north could no longer ignore it. Better to know there’s nothing but harsh colds than something lurking in the snow beyond the unknown lands they have set sail to. Every new land they stopped to check had been uninhabitable other than for them being teeming with dragons of different species. The stories on the lands so far north no man would dare to travel there lest the goddess of death herself come to drag them out of the world of the living. It was a land full of snow and ice where dragons have started to appear and inhabit. It’s said to be filled to the brim with magic so thick you choke on it with each breath. A land so wild and deadly that it will swallow you whole without any chance of a proper send off to ensure you can make it to the halls of Valhalla. But yet even with those stories are the ones that the moon shines brightest upon these lands and what’s more that there have been sightings of people. Yet no one has lived to confirm or deny if that’s true or not. Every person that ventures these lands seemingly goes missing so they’ve been presumed dead. How can one go missing in harsh lands with winters longer than anywhere else in the world and survive? 

        "Orm! We should go find shelter! It is getting late and the sun will go down soon. If we stay out here past sundown we will all freeze to death!” A voice cut through the winds to the man in the front.

Orm was a brunette man with dark hair in braids and a long beard and mustache. He was tall, strong, and robust like any Viking man was. He was clothed in dark thick furs and leather to help abate the cold winds and weather. At the moment he knew the man that called to him was right. They needed to search for shelter otherwise they would be done for in these lands.

        “We search for shelter then! But we stay together! If any of us get lost in this we’re as good as dead!” Orm ordered to the others.

No one would die in these gales on his watch. Not if he could help it. As the party continued on through the snow they looked for any place they could rest for the night. A cave would be preferable, but he wasn’t going to hold his breath on that. When Orm went to take another step in the snow he heard rustling as if something was dragging its body through the snow. He froze, scanning the area for where the sound came from. He held up a hand to signal the rest of the party to stop in their tracks as the snow crunched under their boots. As his eyes scanned looking for anything in the wintry lands they stopped when they found movement in the snow. Behind a large snow bank raised a massive white scaled head that was blending in with the snow. The dragon’s blue eyes were trained on the group watching them with narrowed eyes before it came to its full height and let out a deafening roar.

        “Snow Wraith!” 

Came a yell from behind as the Vikings tried to spread out without being separated as they turned to take cover from the snow colored wild dragon. It was large with spikes that looked like ice protruding from its back and long tail. As it made a swipe, Orm ducked below and kept running. Better to run and try to defend themselves where they have more visibility rather than trying to kill it like they did back in the old days.

        “Back to the ships! Try to lose the dragon!” He yelled at his men.

As they ran a couple of the men were nearly trampled, but the group kept pressing forward ducking and weaving around trees, boulders , and snow banks. The dragon was agitated and kept the chase. It was not until they were close to shore that the dragon pounced pinning Orm to the cold snow covered ground. The dragon opened it’s great maw as if to take a bite out of Orm. His men turned to help when a low whistle sounded. The dragon froze and shut its mouth while still staring at the viking it had pinned to the ground. When it didn’t move another whistle followed after a few minutes. The dragon growled before hurriedly letting Orm go and zipping away. When Orm finally got up his eyes trained to where the Snow Wraith disappeared. Not too far above was a dragon gliding in the air. It was pure white with long, thin ridges running down its spine. It had triangular tail flukes, four nubs protruding from its head, and long thin ridges on its legs. Its wings were massive as it flapped them. Its eyes are catlike and glacial blue. It looked just like a Night Fury but white. Upon its back was a rider cloaked in blues and whites with brown boots lined with white fur on their feet. They had a slender build, but that didn’t take away from their powerful presence. The hood of a brown with white fur lined cloak was up covering the person’s face. They held what appeared to be a shepherd’s staff. They were small so they must have been young.

        “I advise you to turn back, you're too close to a Snow Wraith nest. Besides, outsiders are not welcome here. I’ll only say this politely once otherwise I’ll let the dragons at you.” A young distinctly male voice warned. 

Orm shook off the pure shock he felt at seeing a boy riding a white Night Fury. He signaled for his men to keep on back towards the ships. They came for what they needed to know anyways. He nodded to the strange cloaked young man.

        “I apologize if our arrival caused a disturbance. We were not aware we were close to a dragon nest. I thank you for your assistance and we will depart since we are not welcome here.” Orm spoke to the young man before turning to follow his men.

The cloaked figure on the dragon nodded once before flying off and disappearing completely behind the coverage of clouds. Well, Orm supposed coming there was not a complete waste. After all he got to confirm that people do inhabit these lands. That and he knew his chief, Stoick and particularly his son would be interested to know about the white Night Fury and its rider. As he climbed back onto the deck of the ship after trudging through the ice and snow again he watched as the land grew distant as they sailed away and back home to Berk.

The wind whipped past a massive body as both a man and a dragon zipped through the sky. They twisted, turned, and spiraled through the air. Now to anyone that was not a resident of Berk this sight would be shocking. Not to mention baffling. Why would a viking ride a dragon? But that’s what it was. The man’s freckled face and auburn hair was covered and obscured by a metal spiked helmet. His deep emerald eyes the only part visible through a slot in the helmet. The man was dressed clad in green clothing that was covered by brown leather and furs that kept his armor in place. The dragon he was riding was a night fury with scales as dark as night, catlike vivid forest green eyes, and a missing tail fin that was replaced with a red prosthetic tail fin. In the sky the man was free with no worries or problems. He adjusted the tail fin with his metal prosthetic that extended from leg to foot that was hooked to the foot pedal as the both of them swerved around rocky structures.

        “What do you think Toothless? One more time around the island?” The rider asked, patting the dragon’s head.

Toothless warbled in agreement. His rider let out a chuckle as he adjusted the tail fin and the both dived down. Toothless tucked in his wings before leveling back out and swooping up a bit higher.

        “Hiccup!”

The man in question turned his emerald gaze behind him to see another dragon rider. The dragon was a Deadly Nadder with blue and yellow scales, golden eyes, and a spiked tail. The nose of the dragon ended in a sharp point like a horn. It had a beak like jaw ending into an overbite with its mouth. From its head was a spiky crown. Its rider was a young woman with blonde hair worn in a single braid that draped over her shoulder and crystal blue eyes. She like the young man was dressed in leather, furs, and armor. Her armor consisted of armored shoulder pads and an armored pleated skirt. Her clothing consisting of reds and browns. 

        “Hey, Astrid.” The man addressed as Hiccup greeted the woman.

        “Stormfly and I have been looking for you.” Astrid said, patting her dragon’s head. “Stoick has something important to discuss with everyone.”

Hiccup sighed. “Wonder what it’s about. Well, you heard her bud. Time to head back.”

The night fury let out a soft trill of dissatisfaction as both dragons turned around carrying their riders back to Berk. The dragons made quick time zipping through the air at high speeds. They landed in the town square. Both riders dismounted from their dragons and Hiccup removed his helmet. They started on their path to the Grand Hall.

        “So any idea what this is going to be about?” Hiccup inquired.

        “Probably has to do with the scouts that just returned.” Astrid said, thoughtfully. 

        “Is that supposed to be a bad thing?”

        “It is when they were attacked by dragons from what I heard. I don’t know all the details so I can only tell you what I’ve heard. We’ll hear it all once we get to the Grand Hall I’m sure. It’s got to be big if your dad is calling a meeting with everyone.” The blonde explained with the knowledge she held on the subject.

Hiccup nodded in agreement as they stood before the massive doors. Pushing through the doors the first to greet them was another fellow rider.

        “It’s about time you got here!”

The man that spoke had black hair with a metal helmet that had ram horns protruding from the top resting on his head. Like most viking men he was tall with a strong muscular build. He has a bit of facial hair growing into a dark mustache. His posture was confident and arrogant as he gazed at the two with green eyes.

        “Nice to see you too, Snotlout.” Hiccup drawled sarcastically.

        “Hiccup! There ya are. Nice ta see ya decided ta join us. Come now. Ya best join Stoic.”

The man that spoke was larger than Snotlout and older than all three young adults. He had a long blonde mustache that hung in braids down his face and blue eyes. He had a hook for one of his hands and a peg leg.

        “Okay. Got it Gobber.” Hiccup said to the large man. “ I’ll see you later guys.”

With that said the auburn haired man continued to the large table where his father stood at the head of it. Stoick the Vast was an easy man to spot. As the chief of the Hairy Hooligan Tribe Stoick was a tall and large built man. He was very strong. The man in question standing  at the head of the long table had red hair with a braided beard and mustache. On his head like many other vikings rested a metal helmet with horns protruding from each side.

        “Hey, dad.” Hiccup greeted as he stopped next to his father.

        “Hiccup! Good you're here. Now we can begin.” Stoick said with satisfaction. “Listen up everyone! As you all know we sent scouts to the north to confirm if there was in fact a village of magic users. There have been stories of an island filled with hostile magic users. We've all heard the stories. The scouts were able to confirm there are people in those ice infested lands before being attacked by a wild dragon.  From what I was told by one of the men there was a young man riding a dragon and not just any dragon a white Night Fury.”

Hiccup froze upon hearing that at the same time there was an uproar as people clamored for answers. A white Night Fury? Could there really be others like Toothless after all? Could they have not been able to find them because they were just all the way up north away from Berk? As Hiccup lost himself in thought he came out when voices blended together as words were shouted.

        “What do we do?!”

        “What if they attack Berk?!”

        “We best destroy them before they destroy us!”

        “SILENCE!” Stoic bellowed silencing everyone in the building. “We've been at peace for too long. If another war breaks out we will not be the cause of it! We haven't even confirmed if that land is filled with magic users or if there’s a village of them. Orm only saw the young man he encountered that saved him from the Snow Wraith before warning them to leave and threatening to let the nest of Snow Wraiths on his team if they did not.”

        “Aye. That may be well and good, but we've no idea what these people are capable of. We should be prepared if it comes ta a fight.”

The man that spoke bore a great resemblance to Snotlout except older, taller, and had more facial hair.

        “Spitelout! It's too dangerous to send someone on a boat to investigate further. Those lands are much too volatile to send people not familiar with that kind of land.” Stoic said firmly.

        “What about a dragon?” Hiccup interjected.

        “Absolutely not!”

        “Dad think about it! The riders and I can go and check it out. We'll be safe with the dragons and we'll be able to stay out of sight. Afterwards we'll come right back. We could be wrong about them being hostile. Besides, we've travelled to lands like that before and more.”

        “Aye. The boy is right Stoick.” Gobber agreed.

Stoick looked at Hiccup as if debating before he finally spoke. “Alright. But you get out of there if it gets too dangerous. We are not risking you or the others on a hunch.”

        “We're vikings. It's an occupational hazard.”

        “That's my boy! Alright! It's decided! Hiccup will lead a team to these northern islands and return with what they find.”

There was talking among the crowd as it began to slowly disperse. Hiccup quickly shuffled out of the Grand Hall. As soon as he exited the building he was rejoined by Toothless.

        “Hey, bud. Let's get to the academy . ” He said as both man and dragon started the trek to the Dragon Academy.

The emerald eyed man was curious though. He wondered what kind of dragons they would find. Maybe even be able to track down that Night Fury and its rider. That would be great for Toothless if he wasn't the last of his kind. He also wondered what the people would be like. Would they be peace faring people or would they be bloodthirsty like Dagur and the Berserkers had once been? With that thought the man and dragon entered the academy.

        “Look out!”

Hiccup quickly ducked and rolled out of the way as a fireball hit the wall above where Hiccup had just been. Toothless growled annoyed as Hiccup got back up to his foot and prosthetic, dusting himself off.

        “Hiccup are you okay?”

        “Yeah, I'm fine Fishlegs.”

Fishlegs was a tall young man with a larger build than the others in their group. He had blonde hair mostly covered by a helmet and bright green eyes. He had facial hair growing into a mustache and beard. Not too far behind Fishlegs was his dragon Meatlug. Meatlug  was a Gronkle with brown and beige scales. Like most dragons she had yellow tinted eyes. Her build was large and robust with a round head and blunt nasal horn. She had sharp canines and a clubbed tail.. As Hiccup lifted his gaze he saw that not far from him was Astrid and Stormfly. A bit away from her was Snotlout and his Monsterous Nightmare, Hookfang. Hookfang was large, towering over many of the other dragons with scales varying shades of red and black with black horns sitting atop the dragon's head. He had double clawed wings and sharp spines. The dragon has a snake-like neck and tail with frills. Some paces away were the twins, Ruffnut and Tuffnut. The two always dressed similar to each other. Tuffnut, unlike his twin sister, wore his blonde hair in multiple braids. Ruffnut, in contrast to her twin, wore her hair in two braids hanging down each side of her face. Behind the twins was their dragon, Barf and Belch. Barf and Belch was a Hideous Zippleback. Unlike other dragons this one had two heads with long necks. It had a horn above its snout on each head and green scales that faded into yellow in one areas. It had a split tail and lobs along its neck, back, and body.

        “Wasn't us.” The twins said immediately.

        “Of course it wasn't.” Hiccup drawled sarcastically. “Alright as I'm sure all of you know by now we're going on a mission. It's a stealth mission. We're to head north to check and see if these people are hostile or not. And maybe hopefully see what else we can find.”

        “Like a white Night Fury?” Astrid teased with a knowing smile. “But should we really bring Snotlout and the twins for a stealth mission?” Astrid questioned with a raised eyebrow.

        “Hey!” Snotlout exclaimed.

        “We can totally be stealthy!” Ruffnut defended.

        “You won’t even know we’re there!” Tuffnut added.

        “Well, we'll need them in case things don't go as planned.”

        “I've got a better idea! I say Hookfang and I teach them what happens when they mess with Berk!” Snotlout said with a smirk causing Hiccup to puff out a sigh.

        “Snotlout we can't do that. If there's going to be a fight we're not going to be the ones to start it.” Hiccup said pinching the bridge of his nose in exasperation. 

Fishlegs nodded in agreement. “This is a bit exciting! There are unknown species of dragons there I’m sure! Just think what we can find!”

        “Can we cause an avalanche there?” Tuffnut asked.

        “No.” Astrid said immediately.

        “Aww.” The twins sighed with a frown.

        “Alright gang. We'll be leaving tomorrow so make sure to be packed and rested. We leave in the morning.” Hiccup said as the others went back to what they had been doing earlier.

        “What do you think we'll find there?” Astrid asked inquisitively.

        “Well, we'll find a lot of snow and hopefully that Night Fury along with its rider. So that's the obvious. Hopefully the people are not hostile.”

        “I guess we'll find out. Even if they are at least we'll be prepared if they ever set their sights on Berk. Do you think the rider could be a dragon trapper?”

        “I hope not, but the chances of the rider not being a trapper are slim. If the rider is a trapper then we save the dragon. I just hope it doesn’t come to a fight. It would be nice to go somewhere where people aren’t pointing axes and torches among other weapons at us.”

        “Don't worry about it. You'll figure it out. I'll see you later. Gotta go pack for tomorrow.” The blonde said, placing a quick kiss to Hiccup’s cheek before leaving with Stormfly following her.

Hiccup smiled as he turned his gaze towards Toothless. “Come on, bud. Let's go home.”

With that said they left the arena and started on the path home.

         “What do you think we'll find bud? We'll be finding something that's for sure. It'll be something if we're able to track down that night fury.” Hiccup spoke to the dragon getting a few excited warbles in reply causing him to chuckle.

He entered his house to see his father placing some food on the table.

        “Hey, dad.” Hiccup greeted.

        “Hiccup.” Stoick greeted in return.

Hiccup walked over and pulled out a basket of raw fish setting it in front of Toothless. The night fury immediately dug in taking mouthfuls of the fish and gulping it down. The emerald eyed man sat at the table with his father. He cut a piece of the cod of his plate and placed it in his mouth.

        “How long do you think it'll take ya?” Stoick asked taking a drink of mead .

        “With any luck when we get there it will only take a few days. At max a week.”

Stoick nodded. “Aye, but you be careful. If they do have magic I don't want you or the others engaging them until we know what they can do.”

        “I know, but hopefully it won't come to that.” Hiccup said taking a drink of mead before taking a few more bites of food. “Besides if anything happens we've got the dragons. Well, dad I'm going to pack for tomorrow.”

        “Alright son.”

Hiccup went upstairs followed by Toothless. Once he made it to his room he removed Toothless’s saddle and prosthetic tail fin. The night fury bounded off to the stone slab that functioned as his bed. Toothless used a small amount of his fire breath to warm up the stone slab before laying on it. Hiccup grabbed a brown satchel and he started packing the necessities he'd need. He packed some water, two spare prosthetics, and fish for Toothless among other things. He removed his inferno blade followed by his armor piece by piece until he was left in his long sleeved green shirt and brown trousers. He sighed as he stripped out of his clothes and into a pair of comfortable cotton pants and a shirt. The auburn haired man removed his prosthetic setting it aside. He crawled under the furs on his bed blowing out the single candle on his bedside.

        “Good night Toothless.”

He received a soft purr in reply as he drifted off to unconsciousness. The week ahead was going to be exciting. This was just the beginning of a new journey.

Chapter Text

        “Are we there yet?” Ruffnut asked as she dramatically leaned on Barf’s head.

        “We’ve been flying forever! When are we gonna see something other than ocean and clouds?!” Tuffnut interjected, copying his sister and leaning on Belch’s head in sheer boredom.

         “No, we are not there yet.” Hiccup said with a roll of his eyes exasperated.

        “We’re going north. It’s not like it’s just a short two island stop away.” Astrid said equally annoyed.

        “But we’ve already been flying for two days!” Tuffnut complained.

        “Hate to say I agree, but the twins for once have a point.” Snotlout said with a bored yawn.

        “And we’ll probably fly another two as long as you muttonheads don’t try to blow anything up on an island we pass through!” Astrid said with annoyance, lacing her voice.

         “We do more than just blow things up!” Ruffnut gasped dramatically at the sheer audacity of the blonde shieldmaiden. 

Hiccup shook his head as he saw snow clouds start to roll in as he rode closer and closer to what looked to be a huge island covered in ice and snow.

        “Guys-” Hiccup began, but was abruptly cut off.

        “Yeah! Like the time we set part of the Edge on fire. Good time!” Tuffnut said with a proud smile reminiscing.

         “Are you kidding me?!” Astrid exclaimed outraged.

        “Uh, guys I-”

        “Why would we kid about that? This is a serious matter! You are smearing our good name by saying all we do is blow things up. The slander!” Ruffnut said cutting off Hiccup once again.

        “Seriously?! That’s what this is about?!” Astrid exclaimed with an eyeroll. 

        “GUYS!” Hiccup shouted, finally garnering the attention of all of the dragon riders.

        “What is it?” Questioned Fishlegs.

         “I think we finally found the place.” Hiccup stated pointing to the land ahead as snow started to drop around them and the wind turned icy cold.

        “Cold winds and snow as far as the eye can see. Of course we’re finally here and it’s as cold as Devastating Winter!” Snotlout complained.

        “It’s north of Berk of course it’s going to be cold.” Hiccup deadpanned. “Let’s find a place to take shelter to let the dragons rest.”

As the riders went to find somewhere to land the winds howled and picked up in strength making it hard for the dragons to fly. 

        “You okay bud?” Hiccup asked Toothless as he patted his head.

The night fury let out a warble in response as he swooped down towards a cave. Upon landing Hiccup carefully dismounted and scratched Toothless’s head as he gazed at the entrance of the cave. He looked towards the skies where the other riders were following behind him and Toothless in landing their dragons. As he opened his mouth to call he watched and winced as the twins crash landed with their dragon into a snow bank. Thankfully the packed snow made the landing soft. That didn’t stop the twin dragon riders from eating the snow. 

        “That was awesome!” Tuffnut exclaimed as he popped back out of the snow with his fists raised into the air in glee.

        “Let’s do that again!” Ruffnut shouted in agreement in much the same position as her brother.

        “You muttonheads can crash land all you want after the dragons have rested.” Astrid said, coming up behind them as she continued towards Hiccup into the cave.

The auburn haired Viking sighed as he shook his head and followed Astrid in with the night fury in tow. The others filtered in with their dragons to hopefully get a break and rest. They would have to find some firewood and make camp if they wanted to stay warm. As Hiccup was going to voice this Snotlout dumped a pile of broken off branches onto the icy ground of the cave.

         “What? Those two kept crashing into the trees. Figured it was easier than hunting for firewood on our own.” Snotlout said with a nonchalant shrug as he started to assemble everything together for a fireplace.

Astrid and Hiccup glanced at each other both giving a shrug to the other as they assisted in making the fire and getting the dragons settled. The riders all gathered around close to the fire with their dragons as they tried to warm back up.

         “So do we have a plan?” Fishlegs asked as he petted his dragon. 

        “I was thinking we could take a look around and see what we could find. We found the island, but not the village.” Hiccup said contemplatingly.

        “We could always break off into pairs.” Astrid offered.

        “And if anyone finds anything we can signal to the others with our dragons.” Hiccup agreed. “Alright since we have our plan. Astrid, you and I will search north of the island. Snotloud and Fishlegs you’ll go south. Then Ruff and Tuff you can search west and please for the love of Thor don’t get caught.”

        “You got it boss man!” Tuffnut said, puffing out his chest proudly.

        “Alright we’ll split up at day break. The dragons need rest and so do we.” Hiccup said as he settled himself down more comfortably next to the night fury.

Hiccup ducked under a snow covered branch as the snow crunched under his feet with each step. Toothless followed beside his rider closely with Astrid not too far behind them with Stormfly. Hiccup looked around as the sun peaked through the sky. The wind had finally let up and ceased by morning after the riders had rest for the night in the cave they made camp in. The snow had stopped as well for the moment. So far they only ran into the odd dragon here and there. Most of them scurrying away with their food or too tired with sleep to be concerned with the riders and their dragons. 

         “I’m gonna take Toothless and check from above. Maybe we’ll be able to cover ground faster that way.” Hiccup said looking back at Astrid.

The blonde woman nodded in agreement. “Stormfly and I will stay down here so we have eyes above and below ground.”

         “Good. Let’s go bud.” The auburn haired man said as he mounted the night fury’s saddle and took off to the skies.

The dark colored dragon swooped through the skies zipping through and around the island. Hiccup kept his eyes peeled to see if he could see anything out of the ordinary that could lead them to people that inhabited the snowy lands they were on. 

        “What do you think bud? See anything?” Hiccup asked his reptilian companion.

Toothless’s green eyes darted about not seeing anything other than snow and huffed. Then his eyes darted and he surged forward downward fast.

         “Whoa! Toothless slow down! What did you see?” Hiccup yelled startled as he clenched his hands around the saddle so he wouldn’t fall.

It was when they landed that Hiccup saw it. A snow white dragon and not just any dragon but a white night fury. The dragon before him looked to be female with blue eyes. The dragon growled when she noticed she was followed.

        “It’s okay. Where is your rider?” Hiccup wondered in awe of the light fury.

He slowly dismounted Toothless and raised his hands in a placating manner to show he meant no harm. As he slowly took a step forward the growling from the white dragon increased as she crouched down like she was going to pounce. Toothless growled back, protective of his rider. It may be another dragon that could be a night fury, but he still wouldn’t allow anything to happen to his human companion. Hiccup froze between the two dragons just as he was about to lower himself down the light fury stopped growling. There was a soft series of whistles from afar. The light fury looked in the direction they came in and shot off quickly. When Hiccup and Toothless ran to follow after clearing the trees they looked around to find nothing but snow. Hiccup sighed, running a hand through his hair as he turned to look at Toothless with a grin.

         “Looks like you’re not the last one after all bud!” Hiccup said with excitement.

The dragon gave a gummy smile as he warbled and pranced around his rider excitedly. 

The auburn haired man laughed, petting his dragon. “Come on, let's meet up with Astrid.”

With that said the human mounted the night fury once again and took to the skies to return to the blonde viking’s side again. 

Meanwhile in the south Snotlout and Fishlegs were not faring as well as the other two were. Snotlout fumed and exploded in expletives as snow fell right on top of him from a snow covered tree for the third time that day. 

         “By Odin’s beard! I am so sick of snow! If I see any again after we get off this island it will be too soon!” Snotlout said, throwing his hands up into the air as he stomped forward.

Fishlegs rolled his eyes half in exasperation and half in amusement at the monstrous nightmare’ rider’s misfortune. He continued to trudge through the snow with Meatlug beside him. They had been searching for a while now and still came up with nothing.

         “If there are people here who can use magic, who's to say they can’t hide where they live?” Fishlegs wondered as he walked around another snowbank. 

         “Are you kidding me?! If that’s the case why bother coming here?! We’d have a better chance trying to catch one of them in action and that’s assuming anyone even lives here! Because who in Helheim would want to live here?!” Snotlout huffed waving his arms around the area as if to make a point.

Fishlegs shrugged. “Couldn’t say, but if they’re vikings it wouldn’t be too surprising that they’d be too stubborn to leave if this is where their ancestors landed.”

Snotlout shook his head in disbelief. “Then their ancestors had to have been stupid to land in a place like this!”

Fishlegs shook his head. “Come on, let's meet up with the others. There’s nothing out this way.”

The two mounted their dragons and took to the skies to meet up with the others. The twins had fared much the same as Fishlegs and Snotlout finding nothing but nearly knocking down multiple trees as they went. It was a miracle that was the worst they did.

Hiccup gazed at the dragon riders as they sat around a fire in the cave they have claimed as their camp. 

         “So I take it no one found anything then?” Hiccup questioned disappointed.

         “Your assumption is correct on our front.” Fishlegs confirmed. 

        “Tuff? Ruff?” Hiccup asked gazing at the twins.

        “Nothing but dragons and snow. It was boring.” Tuffnut said with a dramatic sigh. 

        “Right. Well, I saw the white night fury, but her rider wasn’t with her.” Hiccup told the group.

        “What?! You did?! So do you think that means someone is on this island?!” Fishlegs asked, bouncing in his seat in slight excitement.

        “I’m not sure, but I figure if we can find her again maybe we’ll be able to find her rider.” Hiccup said with conviction. “So here’s the new plan. We are going to cover as much of this island as we can and find that dragon. Don’t try to interact with her though. It seemed she didn’t care much for Toothless or I being near her. This time we stick together.”

         “Finally! Something that might actually be fun!” Ruffnut said with an excited grin.

Hiccup shook his head at the twin’s antics. “Come on bud. We're going to search every inch of this place until we find that village.” He patted Toothless’s head gently.

Toothless let out a soft sound of slight excitement causing Hiccup to chuckle. Both of them zipped up into the sky followed by the other dragon riders. The emerald eyed man kept his eyes to the snow covered ground. He watched to see if he could find any signs of the dragon anywhere. Hiccup scanned the snow covered land carefully and closely. He found nothing. He saw some movement further ahead.

         “Are those Snow Wraiths?” Hiccup questioned seeing five dragons laying in the snow. “Let's steer clear of them guys. I can bet they won't enjoy having visitors.”

        “Yeah, if there’s that many here there could be a nest nearby.” Fishlegs agreed.

Astrid nodded in agreement with them both. “We don’t need angry wild dragons on our tails when we’re trying to be discreet. So that means don’t do anything stupid.”

The shield maiden looked pointedly at the Thorston twins. 

         “She’s definitely talking to you.” Ruffnut said, looking over at her brother.

        “No, she’s definitely talking to you. I don’t ever do anything that’s not genius.” Tuffnut rebuked as he and his sister started to argue.

        “Would you two muttonheads give it a rest?” Snotlout huffed. “She’s talking to you both.”

The twins both gasped dramatically. Hiccup shook his head as  Toothless changed direction to go around the snow wraiths below so they were not noticed. Hiccup sighed when they found nothing still. That is until he saw movement from the trees. When he looked below he saw the light fury without her rider again. She was zipping through the sky near the treetops.

        “There she is. Be discreet we don’t want to scare her off.” Hiccup said adjusting his hold on the night fury’s saddle.

The riders were in awe when they saw the light fury as they did their best to keep up with her with how fast she was flying around. She hadn’t yet noticed them as she dove through a cavern that was hidden in the mountain side. It was hidden behind a great tree with a snow bank blocking the entrance. The riders rushed to follow her. When the light fury entered it let out a soft glow. 

        “Uh, Toothless!” Hiccup called in distress. 

Upon entering there was a network of caves that would be easy to get lost in if they were not trailing after the light fury. She weaved and ducked around some of the icy structures in the caves trying to lose the dragon riders. It wasn’t until they finally hit cloudy skies through the exit that they realized they left the network of icy caves. The light fury having finally given them the slip was nowhere to be found. From up above Hiccup saw boats from a distance. He pulled out the spyglass so he could get a closer and better look. He saw three boats docking at a pier. They were hauling in fish. He trailed his gaze further up the terrain where he saw the beginning of a village. The houses were similar to the ones back on Berk. They were sturdy and reinforced to withstand many things, but mostly the cold. He put the spyglass back in the satchel.

        “Alright bud. Let's get closer, but stay hidden. That includes the rest of you.”

The night fury purred in affirmation as he flew up further passing the edge of the village. Snotlout huffed while they all followed after. They stayed obscured by the clouds. The village below was bustling. The town square was large with a few clothing shops. Further down he saw a forge, where a blacksmith was busy making a sword. There were many houses all over the place. Barns were littered here and there throughout the village. He saw and heard children playing through the streets of the village. Their laughter was joyous as it carried through the air. Further away overlooking the village was a massive red building. It was easily the largest in the village. The wood of the building was painted red with snow covering the roof. The entire village was covered by a sheet of snow with some ice here and there. A bit further away from the village was the beginnings of a forest.

        “It’s beautiful.” Astrid breathed.

        “I don’t think I’ve seen a single village like this.” Fishlegs agreed.

        “It’s okay I guess.” Snotlout begrudgingly said.

The twins for once were quiet as they admired the view of the village. They were scoping it out from their vantage point above. Hiccup and Astrid shared a look as they circled back on their dragons to return the way they came. They certainly confirmed there was a village and now that they knew where it was they could investigate it later.

        “Hiccup watch out!” Astrid yelled just as a dragon flew up clipping Toothless’s right wing.

        “Whoa there!” Hiccup exclaimed trying to steady the night fury just as a dragon caught him in its claws. “Toothless!”

The night fury let out a roar as he started to fall in the air with his rider no longer on his back. Hiccup hurriedly tried to wiggle out of the foreign dragon’s claws until it dropped him. Hiccup fell down falling with his dragon as he caught Toothless’s saddle before they hit the snow covered ground. He looked up when he and Toothless finally stopped tumbling. Once the viking oriented himself he saw it was Snow Wraiths he had seen earlier that were now attacking them. He turned to see one charging at him and Toothless with a growl.

        “Toothless!” He yelled as the Night Fury jumped in front of his rider ready to protect him.

The dragons tumbled and clawed at each other. Their jaws sometimes closed over some scales as they growled at each other. The Snow Wraith threw Toothless to the side and swooped down on Hiccup once again. The others were busy with the other Snow Wraiths so the emerald eyed man didn't have time to check and make sure they were okay. Before he could move he was wipped by an icy tail knocking him some feet away. However, from the force of the hit Hiccup’s head connected to a large boulder when he stumbled back. He was knocked off of his feet with the swipe of a tail as his head pounded. He felt the back of his head and brought it to his face to find blood coating his fingers. He must have landed on his prosthetic because his stump felt like it was on fire and he was becoming light headed. He reached around for his sword to try to help with the situation at hand. Toothless roared letting off a plasma blast at the snow wraith as it roared back when it was clipped by it. Toothless descended upon the dragon in a rage. When Hiccup stood he found he was dizzy and everything was starting to tilt sideways. Just as he muttered the night fury’s name he fell back. It would be hours later when he would awaken in a bed disoriented not his own on soft furs. The first thing he would see when he opened his eyes would be icy blue eyes framed by hair as white as the snow.

Chapter Text

Emerald green eyes snapped open. The owner of said eyes sat up and roamed those eyes around the room as Hiccup did not recognize the room he was in. He felt his head as he felt sharp pain from an incoming headache. When he felt his head his hand came in contact with bandages. Quizzically he pulled his hand away as he studied the room he was in. The walls were rather plain looking a simple beige color with the ceiling looking much the same. The bed he was on was filled with blankets and furs draped over him to keep him warm. The room was pretty plain except for some shelves lining the wall in front of him. The shelves were filled to the brim with medical supplies. It had bandages, many types of healing salves, and metal slabs used to fashion splints. By that alone it wasn’t hard to deduce he was in a place for the wounded. It was no surprise being that he was sore and felt a sharp pain in his back. The pain in the back of his head was a dull throb. As Hiccup pulled the blankets up to try to get out of the bed he was on he heard a door open and close. 

      “Look who’s finally awake.” 

The first thing that Hiccup noticed was the young man’s icy blue eyes. The young man that sat across the room was probably the smallest and palest viking Hiccup had ever seen. The boy was small with translucent pale skin and hair as white as the snow. He wore brown pants with binding at the bottom of them up to his shins. Blue linen rimmed with fur wrapped around his waist where it hung. A leather belt lined with dragon teeth held it in place. Covering his chest was a sleeveless blue tunic and blue arm bracers on his forearms. On his left upper arm were blue markings of a tattoo that wrapped round in bands below his bicep. He was wearing a pair of brown rimmed boots covered in leather straps. Draped over his shoulders with the fur lined hood down was a brown cloak that made it down to the boys wrists and held closed with a clasp design of the moon and a snowflake. He was leaning against what appeared to be a shepherd staff lined with frost as if it had been left outside too long. As he gazed at the boy met the gaze of icy blue eyes. A single pale eyebrow lifted as the other gazed back at him. As the young man across from him opened his mouth to speak he was interrupted by another voice.

      “Oh my stars! You’re awake!”

The woman that entered the room was very unique to say the least. She had dark brown locks fashioned into braids down her back with different bright colored feathers woven into her hair to look like a crown. Her eyes had a violet hue to them and her skin was a bit pale. She wore a long sleeve green shirt with brown leggings and fur lined boots that went up to her knees. She wore a green and red skirt with metal plates covering it that went down to her shins. Red pleated armor pads and arm bracers covered her chest and forearms. She had daggers strapped to her thighs. Before Hiccup could open his mouth to speak he was interrupted by another voice.

      “Welcome back to the land of the living.” The young man said with a grin.

      “Jack! Oh, where are our manners? I’m Toothiana. How are you feeling?” The woman asked with concern in her eyes. 

      “Like I got trampled by a dragon. What happened?” The auburn haired man inquired.

      “What was the last thing you remember?” Toothiana asked.

      “Passing out.”

      “Ah, well… That dragon did a number on you. You have a concussion if that wasn’t apparent already. You’d be minced dragon food if your dragon wasn’t there.” Jack said offhandedly.

      “Where's Toothless?!” Hiccup asked a bit panicked. “I have to go back there to get him!”

      “Whoa! Whoa, there! Calm down. Your dragon is safe. He bounced back pretty fast. He's off playing with Luna.” Jack soothed to try to keep Hiccup from getting up. 

Hiccup looked incredulously at the boy. “Who are you?”

      “Who me? I'm Jackson Overland Frost. Call me Jack. And what do we call you Mr. Invader?” Jack questioned eyeing the other man before him.

      “I'm Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III.” He said, glancing between the two before him. “I’m not an invader, at least not in the way you think. Thank you by the way. You're the one that helped me?”

      “I can't take all the credit. Luna did most of it.”

      “Who is Luna?”

      “Just the dragon you chased all the way here.” Jack deadpanned unimpressed.

      “Wait! You’re her rider?!”

      “And if I am what’s it to you dragon hunter?” Jack said glaring at Hiccup with suspicion.

     “What?! You don’t seriously think I’m a dragon hunter, do you?”

     “Then explain the prosthetic tail fin on the night fury. Dragons don’t just lose their tailfins everyday.”

     “Jack!” Toothiana exclaimed stepping in between the two glaring young men. “Jack why don’t you go let North and the others know our guest is up and go check on the dragons?”

Jack huffed as he turned his cloak flapping as he swept out of the room. After his exit Toothiana turned back to Hiccup with an apologetic smile.

     “Please forgive Jack. He’s just passionate about dragons and especially protective of the injured ones. But we do have a right to be wary of you. You chased down Luna here which is no easy feat. That and this place is very well hidden. So once North and Aster are here I unfortunately will have to ask you to be truthful about why you’re here.” Toothiana explained in a practical manner as he stepped out of the room only to return a moment later with a bowl of soup.

      “I know and I must apologize for invading your home. I also must thank you all for saving me. But where are the others?” Hiccup asked.

Toothiana placed the bowl into Hiccup’s hands before sighing. “They are all in other rooms. Our chief felt it best to keep you all separated especially after the escape attempt a couple of them made. Jack actually stepped in and dropped a pile of snow on the one called Snotlout before shoving the door closed.” 

Hiccup chuckled nervously. “I’m sorry about them.”

      “Don’t apologize to me after all you’ll technically be getting interrogated yourself. Just be honest with us and you should be fine unless you actually are a dragon hunter.”

      “I can promise I am most certainly not a dragon hunter.”

      “Then you’ll be fine. Now eat your soup.”

Hiccup nodded and he did as instructed while wondering how the others were. With their earlier action trying to escape was definitely out of the question. He just hoped the others weren’t doing anything too stupid.

Astrid was absolutely annoyed. Not only did they get attacked by four Snow Wraiths, but now they’re all stuck in separate rooms separated from each other. Not to mention the group that captured them are accusing them of being dragon hunters. Add on the fact that they don’t know where their dragons are either. The man sitting across from her at the small table was easily as tall as chief Stoick with a similar build. He was all tall stature and big muscles. His hair was entirely white as was his beard and mustache. His eyes were a sky blue color. He was wearing dark grey pants, a red shirt that was rolled up to his elbows displaying tattoos on each of his crossed arms. He wore brown boots lined with black fur. Near the door rested a long red coat lined with black fur and a black fur hat. He raised a dark brow at Astrid.

      “I ask again who are you and what are you doing here at the North Pole?” The man asked.

Astrid gave him a hard glare crossing her arms and remaining quiet.

      “Silent treatment? I can respect that. But you and yours broke into my tribe through our barrier, invaded our lands, and disturbed the snow wraiths. You had dragons in tow as well. So be truthful. Are you or are you not dragon hunters or trappers? And where did you come from?” The man asked, uncrossing his arms and gazing unflinchingly at the blonde.

Astrid continued to stare before she sighed. “No, we’re not dragon hunters or trappers. We’re dragon riders.”

The man was quiet for a moment. “So you are like Jack, no? You ride dragons? You care for dragons?”

Astrid nodded. “Yes! We ride and care for our dragons. We’re not here to cause harm.”

      “But you did cause harm. See had we not intervened when we did your friend would be as Jack likes to say dragon meat. You lot have come here uninvited and what’s more you chased down light fury, no?” The man asked, raising a brow in question.

Astrid glared with a huff. “Look, we don't want to hurt anyone. I want to know if my friends and our dragons are okay. We didn’t know where we were going. That’s the truth.”

The man nodded. “And your name?”

Astrid balled her fists in frustration. “Astrid Hofferson.”

The man nodded. “Well, Astrid, your friends and dragons have seen no harm. Now as for introductions I am Nicholas St. North. I am chief of the Santoff Claussen tribe. But please call me North.”

Astrid looked at the man shocked. She was not expecting the chief himself to be the one questioning her.

      “Now Astrid, what tribe did you come from?”

Astrid looked down not wanting to answer, but trying to weigh her options. 

      “And if I refuse to answer?”

       “Then you stay in here. If you all are to be trusted you must first trust us. I know it is a hard thing to ask, no? But you invaded our tribe first. Knowing this and the trouble you all caused is enough to let me ship you lot to Aster and let him deal with you lot. But I have a feeling your lot may not be as bad as Aster thinks or as Jack is expecting.” North said with a small smile.

Astrid looked up at North biting her lip as she thought over her best actions. When she opened her mouth to speak there was a knock on the door. 

      “North the last one woke up.”

      “Ah! Good! We will continue this later! Aster, keep watch, yes?” The man asked as he exited the room leaving Astrid alone save for the man called Aster outside the room acting as her prison.

Hiccup looked around the room as he watched Toothiana zip from one end to the other. She occasionally would stop as she took stock of the medical supplies in the room. Hiccup wished he could help, but she made it clear she did not want him up or moving. He opened his mouth to ask if there was anything other than sitting and waiting that he could do when the door opened. North stepped into the room as imposing as ever. When his eyes landed on Hiccup he gave a smile as he crossed the room and sat on a stool next to the bed. 

      “Hello, I am Nicholas St. North. You may call me North and I am the chief of this Santoff Claussen tribe. You have already met my wife, Toothiana. Now may I ask your name and which tribe you come from?”

      “Uh, hello, sir. I am Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III and we came from the Hairy Hooligan Tribe. Our village is Berk.” Hiccup explained. “I swear to you we met no harm. We had some men that stepped foot on your lands days ago that were attacked by dragons and threatened.”

North blinked in surprise then let out a loud hearty laugh. “Oh! Those men were from your tribe? My apologies young one. Jack scared them off with Luna. But it was for good reason. Tell me Hiccup, what do you know of these lands?”

Hiccup was shocked hearing the laugh then recovered when being questioned. “Just what the rumors say.”

North nodded. “I see we’ll let me ask you this you don’t harm or trap dragons, no?”

Hiccup shook his head. “No! Of course not! In fact, in my tribe we befriend and ride them.”

North nodded in understanding. “I see.”

North gazed at Hiccup a moment and saw the earnestness in the young man and in his eyes. He could see he meant what he said when he spoke of the dragons and that he was speaking the truth. That and a lot of what he said matched up with the others. He had a feeling they were brought here for a reason. Not a nefarious reason though. Unless they were all very good actors and liars which he doubted he could see they meant no harm. 

      “In that case I suppose we have kept you and yours cooped up long enough, no?”

Hiccup blinked surprised. 

      “Don’t give me that look. Your lot will be accompanied by one of the guardians until we are certain we can trust you.” North explained.

      “You’re fine with one person looking over six people?” Hiccup asked skeptically. 

      “Why of course I am after all as rumors say we do have our magic. Where do you think some of the rumors come from? You lot aren’t the first to stumble into our lands. Although the first bold enough to come close to the village.” North said with a laugh.

Hiccup was shocked upon hearing that. He looked over at Toothiana to see if this was normal and she just smiled at him.

      “Now come you are well enough to meet up with your dragons and friends, no?”

Hiccup nodded. “Uh, thank you.”

      “No need for thanks. You lot aren’t far from Jack’s age. So he will be the one watching you all. With Aster helping of course. Now then let’s go see that dragon of yours.” North said, standing up from the stool.

Hiccup scrambled to follow and paused looking towards Toothiana who handed Hiccup his prosthetic. He smiled gratefully as he fastened it on and stood up slowly to follow North out the door after grabbing a cloak. Upon exiting the first thing Hiccup realized was the place was huge with numerous doors and torches lining the hallway. He looked around seeing painting upon painting hung. They sure liked to decorate the was for sure. As soon as they reached the end of the hallway as soon as the door to outside was opened Hiccup was tackled by a black mass that started licking him.

       “Toothless! You know that doesn't wash out!” He exclaimed, wiggling free from underneath the Night Fury.

He looked up when he heard laughing to see Jack gazing at the two. Luna trotted up from behind Hiccup and nuzzled Jack's hand. The pale teen started scratching the dragon's scales. Jack gazed down at the light fury with fondness. Jack gazed back at him with a raised eyebrow.

      “Uh, not to sound rude, but how old are you?” Hiccup inquired.

North said Jack was around his age, but he looked rather young. Of course the same used to be able to be said of Hiccup.

      “Eighteen. How about you?”

      “Really? But you're so…”

      “Small? Yeah I know. I'm what other vikings call a hiccup.” He said with amusement.

      “You say it like it's a good thing.” Hiccup noted.

      “Being a hiccup just makes you different. I like different.”

Hiccup smiled that was the first time he ever heard someone speak of being a hiccup in a positive light. 

      “I do as well. So that's your dragon?”

      “Luna this is Hiccup. Hiccup this is Luna.” Jack introduced.

The light fury gazed at Hiccup unimpressed with a small growl.

      “Sorry about chasing you.” Hiccup said with his hands up.

Jack chuckled. “You’re in for it. She’s good at holding a grudge. So what’s this handsome night fury’s name?”

      “Toothless, Jack. Jack, Toothless.”

      “He's amazing.” Jack breathed.

Luna grumbled with an indignant huff.

      “Oh, shush! You're still my number one!” Jack said with a laugh. “May I?”

Hiccup nodded. “Sure. Toothless?”

Toothless purred as Jack slowly moved closer. Toothless sniffed the teen's hair and purred as Jack started scratching his scales. Jack chuckled when he scratched under the dragon's chin causing him to collapse in bliss. Hiccup smiled since it seemed Toothless liked Jack with the way he started to nuzzle the pale teen.

      “He seems to like you.” Hiccup noted.

      “I like him, too. Dragons are amazing.”

      “Your tribe seems pretty different from the other viking tribes I've seen so far.”

      “Yeah, pretty much. How many tribes do you know of were chosen by the Moon?” Jack asked with a small chuckle.

      “Seriously?” Hiccup asked incredulously.

      “Come on, I'll show you. We’ll even meet up with your friends.” Jack said holding out a hand to help Hiccup up.

Hiccup smiled as he grabbed Jack’s hand and let himself be hoisted to his feet. “I’d like that.”

      “Just know if you turn out to be untrustworthy I’ll feed you guys to the dragons and get Bunny to help me.”

      “Who…?”

Jack grinned. “No one you need to worry about.”

Toothiana smiled as she walked the halls with North. “How long do you think they’ll be staying?”

North shrugged. “Don't know. But he has full hands with Jack.”

Toothiana chuckled. “Suppose that is true. But please give Jack some more time. We have no one to blame, but ourselves for Jack's being so distant. We didn't start being there for him until last year.”

North nodded. “I know. I am just ashamed of myself. I could have been there for Jack when he was younger, but was blind by what was not there.”

      “Nick it's not your fault. We all didn't understand Jack. He was lashing out because he didn't have all of his memories and he still doesn't.”

     “Which is why we must do all we can to help him now.”

She nodded in agreement. “He seems to like that boy from Berk.”

      “Hiccup seems like good lad.”

      “Really because you were the one that was bloody suspicious of the bloke.”

The man that spoke was tall with shoulder length blue tinted black hair, forest green eyes, and tanned skin. He had tattoos cover both arms from his biceps up. He wore brown pants with fur trimmed boots. Covering his chest was a white sleeveless fur lined shirt. He had leather traps crisscrossing over his chest holding small containers of explosives. On his firearms were brown arm bracers. Strapped to his back were two pieces of bent metal. They were metal boomerangs used as weapons.

      “Bunny! Can you blame me? It's been while since Jack's been around someone his own age.”

      “And we know next to nothing about him and his crew other than their names and where they’re from. That and the trouble they caused stirring up the snow wraiths.”

      “Calm down Aster. They’ll be joining us for dinner.”

      “What?!”

      “Aster quiet down.” Toothiana soothed.

      “I swear on my great aunt's grave if those blokes hurts frostbite they’ll be dealing with me!”

      “ASTER!” Toothiana yelled getting both men to quiet down. “You’ll be helping Jack keep watch over them. Honestly, I don't know who's worse with the protective streak. You or North?”

Aster sighed. “Can you blame us with how much trouble frostbite gets himself into?”

      “I suppose not, but Jack will be Jack. Besides Hiccup seems pleasant enough. I don’t think he’ll hurt Jack. He seems to get that same twinkle in his eyes when it comes to dragons as Jack does.”

      “Yes, Tooth is right. Now come we best make sure things are prepared for guests, no?”

Aster sighed. “I swear it's like talking to a bloody wall.”

Jack sat off to the side on top of a table they were sitting at. It was lined with many different types of books. There were bookshelves upon bookshelves filled with books. Jack idly swung his legs bored. The room itself was painted a dark blue with what looked like stars depicted and on the wall nearest to the door a full moon was painted there. There were tables here and there with chairs at them. Before Hiccup could take in anymore of the room the door swung open banging against the wall causing Hiccup to wince and Jack to flinch. 

      “Crikey! Would you watch?! North will be a pain if I have to explain that anything was damaged.” An accented voice reprimanded.

Hiccup watched as Astrid and the other dragon riders all filtered into the room and sat at a chair at the very table Hiccup sat at. Jack slid off the table and took a few steps away from Hiccup and the others. Hack gazed up at Aster who met his eyes straight on. 

      “Frostbite.”

Jack gave a crooked smile. “Bunny.”

     “Hold up! Is your name actually Bunny?” Snotlout asked, laughing. 

Aster scowled as he broke his gaze with Jack and locked his eyes on Snotlout. “You’re one to talk to, mate. Some of you have the strangest names I’ve come across in a while and I’ve been around.”

Jack snickered, hearing Snotlout let out a sound of indignation. He shook his head in amusement.

      “Let me introduce you all to E. Aster Bunnymund. The guardian of hope.” Jack introduced as he waved his hand in a dramatic flourish.

      “What is a guardian?” Aster asked with a raised eyebrow.

Aster grinned. “Good question.”

      “It’s in the book I was going to show Hiccup.” Jack said as he pulled out a book from one of the closet shelves. 

The book was thick with a moon depicted on the front. Jack dropped it in front of Hiccup with a thud. 

      “And you are who exactly?” Astrid asked, eyeing the young man.

      “Jackson Overland Frost.” Jack deadpanned. “But call me Jack. And you all are?”

      “Astrid Hofferson.” Astrid stated crossing her arms.

      “Snotlout Jorgenson.”

      “Fishlegs Ingerman.”

      “Ruffnut Thorston.”

      “Tuffnut Thorston. We’re agents of Loki.”

      “And he had the nerve to comment on my name.” Aster said amused. 

Jack shook his head as he tapped on the book. “The book.”

The others gathered around with the twins letting out an “ahhh” as soon as Hiccup opened it. Hiccup was in silent amazement as Jack walked them through the book pointing out important events. It was like one of Gobber’s stories he listened to growing up as a kid.

      “Wow this book is brutal. I like it!” Ruffnut said with an approving smile.

Tuffnut laughed agreeing with his sister. “For once a book that’s not boring.”

      “So does one have to be dying to be chosen?” Fishlegs asked.

      “Yeah, more or less. Not always though. When Mani raises the people back up they gain powers, too. Or when he chooses you in general. Well, most of us do. It could be anything really.” Jack explained flipping through the pages. 

      “What about you? Do you have powers? Did anything ever happen to you?” Hiccup asked curiously.

      “That’s none of your business.” Jack said with cold eyes.

“I'm sorry Jack…” Hiccup apologized. “I didn’t mean to overstep.”

      “Oi!” Aster exclaimed with a scowl.

Jack shook his head waving off Aster. He knew Hiccup meant no malice by the question.

      “All you need to know is other than the basics of who I am and who my family is I can’t tell you much. So tell me what happened to your foot?” Jack asked, trying to get the topic off of himself.

      “His dragon bit it off!” Tuffnut said with a grin.

Hiccup smacked his hand to his face. 

      “I beg your pardon?” Aster said with a very quizzical look upon his face.

      “Well, I guess I bit off a bit more than I could chew. Toothless and I fought the Red Death. I fell into the fire when Toothless saved me. Next thing I know I wake up and I'm missing part of my leg.” Hiccup explained.

      “Red Death? That bloody menace. You lot were the ones that fought and killed the damned thing?” Aster asked with a newfound respect for the small group.

      “Technically Hiccup did most of it.” Astrid assured.

      “But we helped!” Snotlout exclaimed.

      “You're really brave.” Jack said quietly. “I heard the stories when that happened.”

      “Not really Toothless did most of the work.” Hiccup said brushing off the compliment.

      “Are you kidding me?!” Jack yelled, causing the small group to jump startled at the white haired boy's outburst. “I know vikings that could do things beyond your wildest dreams and they would cower in the face of a dragon that big! And here you are saying you're not brave?!What the Hel!”

Astrid smirked. She knew Hiccup wasn’t always good at taking credit, especially where it was due. 

Hiccup blinked at the boy's words before he started laughing. “Well, what can I say I'm humble.”

      “You've got to be the most humble person I've met.”

      “I'll take that as a compliment.”

The two laughed, shaking their heads at their own antics. The twins made disgusted faces watching the back and forth while Astrid rolled her eyes entertained by the two.

      “Okay, so back to the book. What are these people called the Guardians?” Fishlegs asked, pointing to a certain point in the book.

Jack opened his mouth to speak but was beaten to the punch by Aster.

      “We’re protectors.” Aster said, eyeing the small group.

      “Protectors of what?” Astrid asked.

      “Wouldn’t you like to know?” Aster said with a grin not giving anything away.

      “Eh. Who cares.” Snotlout said waving off the stare down between Aster and Astrid.

      “Alright. Alright. Enough of that. It’s almost time for dinner.” Jack said looking out the window at the sky.

The pale teen slipped his cloak around himself, snapping it shut around his neck with the clasp. Hiccup and the others followed suit by slipping on cloaks to keep warm from the cold.. 

Aster led the way as they briskly walked through the halls and out the door. Hiccup took his time to get a better view of the place. It was beautiful. The roads and walkways were paved in stone to make it easier to break apart the ice. The homes were moderately sized and most were either painted red or built with red oak wood. The snow on the ground sparkled and gave the village a feeling like it came out of a fairytale.

      “Jack! Jack!” 

      “Oof! Geez, Mary I just saw you a few hours ago.” 

The newcomer was a young ten year old girl. She had brown hair that fell just below her shoulders, chestnut brown eyes, and a slightly pale complexion. She wore a long sleeved dress with a red stitched in design trimmed with fur and brown fur lined boots in her feet. She currently had both arms locked securely around Jack's waist. Hiccup shifted uncomfortably. He was never the best with kids. 

      “Who are they?” The girl asked as Toothless and Luna trotted up behind Hiccup.

      “Mary, Hiccup, Astrid, Snotlout, Fishlegs, Tuffnut, Ruffnut, and Toothless. Everyone  meet my little sister, Mary.” Jack introduced gesturing to each person or reptile as he said their name. “They’re the people that we brought in earlier.”

      “Nice to meet you.” Hiccup said, giving an awkward smile.

Astrid gave a small smile as she looked between Jack and Mary. “It's nice to meet you Mary.”

Before the rest could say the same thing Mary interrupted as her eyes sparkled as she gazed at Toothless. 

      “Can I pet your dragon?” Mary asked excitedly.

      “Uh, sure…”

Mary smiled as she scratched at Toothless’ scales. The Night Fury purred.

      “So Luna is called a light fury?” Hiccup asked gazing at Luna who stayed a ways back from the group. 

      “Sure is.” Jack answered as the small group continued to the Grand Hall to eat. 

      “I've never seen one before. I never thought I’d be able to see anything remotely similar to Toothless.”

      “Yeah, well technically she found me.” Jack said petting Luna.

      “And nearly gave us a heart attack when you brought her home. Or should I say she brought you home.” Aster interjected 

Hiccup and Mary chuckled. As soon as they entered the Grand Hall Jack was instantly swarmed by children asking him questions, which he patiently answered. It gave Hiccup time to actually look around. The tables were all filled with people. There was a great fireplace with a fire crackling away keeping the place warm. At a large table Hiccup and the others recognized North and his wife. There was also another much smaller man sat at the table with them. The walls of each side of the room was dedicated to a different season of the year. Hiccup’s attention was brought back when Aster ushered them all to a plate of food and something to drink while the children pulled Jack away to tell them stories as they ate. Mary smiled as she sat down with the small group. Aster then shuffled them all to a table where they all sat and began to eat.

      “Does that happen a lot?” Hiccup asked, gesturing over to where Jack was in the middle of a story he was telling the kids.

      “Yeah, he’s always been good with kids my age and younger.” Mary explained. 

      “Well, isn’t that nice.” Snotlout drawled with a bored tone.

Mary scowled.

      “Just ignore him. He’s just jealous none of his stories are as good as your brother’s.” Ruffnut said with a smile.

      “Yeah, his stories suck.” Tuffnut agreed.

       “They do not! You just have no taste.” Snotlout retorted. 

      “Sure keep telling yourself that buddy.” Tuffnut shot back with a grin.

Snotlout let out an affronted sound as the small group laughed while the twins and Snotlout began to bicker. The rest dug into their food and were finally relieved to be back together. 

      “Aster, could I write back home to assure the chief of our tribe that we’re safe?” Hiccup asked.

Aster raised an eyebrow. “So long as you’re monitored while you do so.”

      “A wise decision.” Tuffnut said, nodding his head in a sagely way.

      “Yes, for you would not want the chief to come knocking on your door for his son.” Ruffnut agreed, also acting like a wise elder.

      “Of course you’re the bloody chief’s son making you the heir.” Aster said rubbing his temples feeling an oncoming headache.

The rest of the group remained silent. They were all happy to be reunited and knew so long as they didn’t give a reason to be viewed as a threat they would hopefully remain safe. For now eating a warm meal in a warm place was enough for all of them.

Chapter Text

Jack swung his legs from the ledge he was sitting on as he watched the snow fall outside. He watched the street below as he saw kids running about giggling as today was a day that the cold had receded slightly. He smiled watching a group of kids start a good natured snowball fight. He turned his gaze onto the other occupant in the room. Hiccup sat at a table with paper and charcoal in hand as he wrote a message addressed to Berk. More precisely a message addressed to his father the chief. What were the odds one of the people that came and intruded upon their tribe would be the son of the chief from another tribe. As much as it was nice that his boredom would be released if temporarily Jack still was a bit suspicious of them. Call it paranoia, but Aster did always say it was healthy and smart to be at least a little suspicious of strangers. Regardless if they were here to learn about their tribes and their ways at least Jack could learn about their tribes and maybe get to hear about the places they’ve been. Not like Jack gets to go anywhere remotely far. As Hiccup put the charcoal down Jack hopped to his bare feet and stretched. He walked over to where the auburn haired man sat.

      “All done?” Jack inquired of the other.

      “Yeah, that about covers it. You guys wouldn’t happen to have any Terrible Terrors, would you?” Hiccup asked.

Jack shook his head. “No, North has something else. How would your tribe feel about receiving mail by Yeti?”

Hiccup blinked confused. “By what?”

Jack grinned. “Thought so. Lucky for you North happens to have something with teleportation magic. Don’t get too excited though. We’ll be sending a bird in with it. So don’t get your hopes up on escaping us quite yet.”

Hiccup shook his head. “Teleportation magic? How does that even work?”

Jack shrugged nonchalantly. “You’d have to ask North.”

Hiccup nodded in understanding. Figures. He looked down at the message he wrote. It just explained the overview of what had happened, that they were fine, and that they would probably extend their stay longer than planned so not to worry. 

Hiccup rolled it up and handed it over to Jack who just raised an eyebrow, but took it nonetheless. The two left the room and started walking towards the workshop. Hiccup followed Jack as he knocked on the doors of the workshop and then waited until North answered the door. Upon opening the door North paused seeing both boys.

      “What brings you to the workshop Jack?” North asked, gazing down at the boy in question.

Jack shrugged before giving North a small smile. “Hiccup needs to get his message to his tribe. I figured you wouldn’t mind helping.”

North nodded. “Of course! Come in both of you.”

North stepped in further allowing both of the young men to enter his workshop. Jack upon entering went straight to the little alcove in the corner sitting on the windowsill and looking outside. The workshop had a great view after all. North turned to Hiccup expectantly. 

      “You have a message, no?” He asked the auburn haired man.

Hiccup nodded, pulling out the message he had written earlier and handed it over to North. North took it gently with a small nod.

      “Good. Very good. Now let me see where our carrier bird went.” North said as he walked off out of the room.

Hiccup raised an eyebrow. “You guys use birds?”

Jack shook his head. “Only for instances like this. Usually we just use that globe and then teleport to give the message in person. During times we can't, we send one of the snowy owls through to deliver it for us. On occasion North has been known to send a yeti.”

Hiccup raised an eyebrow. “Okay, but one question. What is a yeti?”

Jack chuckled. “Ever hear of stories of Sasquatch or the Abominable Snowman? That’s the yetis minus all the terror fueled stories. They help North in his workshop.”

      “They help in his workshop?” Hiccup questioned, skeptically.

Jack nodded. “Yeah, you didn’t see them on our way in because North has them busy with something else.”

Before Hiccup could open his mouth to question further, North returned with a pure white owl. He was attaching Hiccup’s message to one of its legs. North then picked up a palm sized clear glove. North gently shook the globe. 

      “I say travel to Berk.” North said as a picture of Berk appeared in the globe.

North tossed the globe and watched as a portal opened with what looked like Berk on the other side. Hiccup stared wide eyed and shocked as North released the snowy owl into the portal. The portal closed leaving nothing behind after the owl had gone through.

      “Okay. I’m seeing things now. That did not just happen right?” Hiccup asked looking over at Jack as if he held all the answers.

The snowy haired young man snickered thoroughly amused. “I hate to break it to you Hiccup, but that was real. Magic is very real. Most people just don’t know where to look to see it. Thought you of all people would know since your tribe lives along magical beings, dragons.”

North chuckled with a smile. “Jack is right. The world is full of magic. We all live alongside it. Most just don’t see or believe it. How can you see something if you don’t believe it? But to be fair magic has been a kept secret to those who could seek to use it with bad intention.”

Hiccup opened and closed his mouth. He almost looked like a fish out of water. Magic has been beside them this whole time and they’ve been blind to it. Hiccup recovered and turned his gaze over to North.

      “How does one know about or become aware of magic?” Hiccup asked curiously.

      “Belief.” North stated. “Sometimes not believing in something is the same as closing ourselves off from its existence entirely. But if you open yourself up to it you’ll find there are more things to the world than you knew. It is these things that the guardians protect.”

Hiccup nodded taking it in. “So what exactly is a guardian?”

Jack shook his head. “Oh, boy. Now you’re in for it.”

      “What is a guardian you ask? I’ll tell you!” North said, his voice raising with increased enthusiasm. “Guardians are the great protectors. They protect the wonderful things that most people can no longer see in the world. Guardians protect the magic as well as the hopes and beliefs of the children in the world. For guardians guard their hopes, their wishes, and most importantly their dreams. For they are all that the guardians are.”

Hiccup looked over at Jack confused.

       “What North is trying to say is the guardians protect a lot of kids. They protect all the things that make a kid well a kid. The guardians is really just a shortened name for what they are.” Jack explained with a small smile.

      “Which is what exactly?” Hiccup asked.

      “The Guardians of Childhood.” 

      “Exactly!” North exclaimed.

       “And how does one become a guardian?” The auburn haired viking asked.

       “They are chosen by Mani himself.” North stated as he ambled over to his work bench. 

      “But how does he choose them?” Hiccup asked, tapping a finger to his chin in thought. 

North shrugged. “All guardians are chosen for different reasons. But they were chosen for a reason nonetheless. That’s enough talk about that. Come I’m sure you lads would like to go flying, no? Those dragons of yours are getting restless.”

Fishlegs sat outside under a roof on a stool as Meatlug ambled about with the other dragons in the snow. Tuffnut and Ruffnut were busy with their dragon. They already nearly destroyed a couple buildings with Aster hot on their heels yelling about property damage. Fishlegs was reading one of the books he found in the library they had. He has been slowly making his way through them. He read up on their book of dragons. It was not too different from their own except theirs wasn’t from ancestors trying to kill and battle the dragons like theirs originally was. He was slowly reading through the other materials like their knowledge on magic and Mani. He was in the section of the book about the guardians. All guardians with exception of one were chosen while still being alive. There are many types of guardians and each protects something different. But they worked together as a whole. Fishlegs looked up when he felt someone sit next to him only to find it was Astrid.

      “What are you reading?” She asked, looking at the book in Fishlegs’s hands.

      “It’s a book about these people. I’m on the section about the guardians.” Fishlegs explained, returning back to the book.

      “What exactly are the guardians? Did you find that out?” Astrid asked, curiously.

      “They’re protectors of childhood. They protect children. Each guardian is different and is a guardian of a different part of childhood, but together they work as a whole to protect the children and the magic.” Fishlegs explained with an excited smile. “It’s very interesting. I wonder how many guardians there are.”

      “More than you could ever hope to count.” 

Both Astrid and Fishlegs looked up to see Aster with his arms crossed as his sharp gaze fell on them. Fishlegs shifted a bit uncomfortably while Astrid met his gaze.

      “And why do you say that?” Astrid asked, narrowing her eyes.

      “Because it’s the truth. People mostly know of the core guardians. While others know of the others there are some people don’t always believe in.” Aster explained with a shake of his head. “To put it simply there’s simply too many guardians located all over.”

      “Why are you telling us this?” Astrid asked suspiciously.

      “Because North wants us to give you lot a chance. To put it in simple terms we’ll let you learn about us so long as you let us learn about you. Make sense? If it helps ease your mind, think of it like a trade of knowledge.” Aster said with a shrug.

Fishlegs nodded in understanding. “That makes sense. I suppose you would want to learn about us and our tribe given you’re being kind enough to let us strangers learn about you guys and your tribe.”

Aster snorted. “That’s one way to put it.”

Astrid wrinkled her brows in consternation. “Then why let us learn at all? Aren’t you people afraid we could tell others?”

Aster let out a snort of amusement. “Outside of your tribe who in the bloody blazes would believe any of this?”

      “Wow. So that’s why you guys don’t seem to care about that? You know no one will believe us.” Snotlout said from where he stood leaning against a fence.

Aster shrugged nonchalantly. “Well, you lot aren’t our first visitors. The last time someone left with information the people all believed them to have gotten sea madness. Don’t get me wrong, we still take our precautions, but we have no fear of others. You’re just the first ones dumb enough to breach the barrier. Accident or otherwise.”

      “I’m taking offense to that.” Snotlout said with a scowl.

Aster snorted. “As you should. Now come along you all still have dragons to tend to. I may be babysitting your arses, but I am not taking care of your bloody dragons, too.”

The group frowned, sharing a glance as they all followed after Aster. 

The wind whipped past as two young men on the backs of their dragons zigzagged through the air. North stood below on the top of a mountain with a smile as he watched the two with mirth. Jack let out a shout of utter joy and excitement at finally having someone that could keep up with him and Luna. Hiccup grinned feeling much the same way. Jack patted Luna’s head with a grin.

      “How about a race? The first one around the island wins.” Jack said with an excitable smile.

     “Oh, you are on. Come one Toothless, let's show these two what we can do!” Hiccup said, receiving an excited warble in reply before the two zipped off.

      “Come on, Luna!” Jack shouted with a grin as the light fury flew after them.

Hiccup laughed as Jack and Luna were hot on their tail. Toothless and him glided around rocky structures and flew through any openings in the mountains they could. But Jack and Luna would either follow or dive through openings to appear not far from Hiccup and Toothless. It didn’t take long until they were neck and neck in the sky. Hiccup looked over at Jack who carefully hopped over onto Toothless crouched on Toothless’s head facing Hiccup. Hiccup leaned back so he wasn’t so close and looked at Jack confused. Jack looked at Hiccup mischievously confusing Hiccup even further. He gave the emerald eyed man a two finger salute before jumping off the dragon.

       “Jack!” Hiccup yelled worriedly.

He looked down to see where he saw Luna swoop down to see Jack laying on the back of the light fury nonchalantly.

       “Awe you do care.” Jack said with a grin and barely contained amusement sparkling in his eyes.

Hiccup shook his head. “Seriously?! Don’t scare me like that! Are you insane doing something like that?!” He said, gesturing to the other with his hands. “You're as bad as I am.”

      “I guess we're both adrenaline junkies then.” Jack said with a chuckle of amusement.

      “That's what you got out of this?”

      “Pretty much.”

      “You're hopeless!”

      “That's what makes me fun!”

      “For the love of Thor…”

Jack laughed, finding the whole situation amusing as he sat back correctly on Luna. With that light fury and night fury shot off circling around the island trying to best the other. Once they landed at the same time where North was, the boys both dismounted from their dragons with grins.

      “Very good! Both of you did very good. Looked like Jack roped you into a race, hm?” North asked with a chuckle.

Jack laughed with a nod and a grin while Hiccup chuckled good naturedly. 

       “Yes, but it ended in a tie.” Hiccup replied sheepishly.

“Don’t worry we’ll beat you next time freckles.” Jack said with mirth. 

Hiccup, taken aback, shook his head in amusement. “Not if we beat you instead Snowflake.”

Jack grinned in response as they walked further on to the island and sat down as the dragons pranced off to enjoy their small break. North sat back letting the two young men have their time to befriend each other. Hiccup pulled out his map and started drawing the islands and lands before them. Jack leaned over to watch.

      “So you make maps in your spare time?” Jack asked.

      “Just of the places we haven’t been to. There’s a lot of the world we haven’t seen and I want to chart all of it.” Hiccup said with a wistful smile.

Jack nodded in understanding. Then Toothless came crashing into Jack as the light fury sat back and watched. Jack sat up with a laugh. Hiccup smiled as he watched Jack scratch the night fury. He chuckled as Jack got up patting the dragon once. The night fury gave a whine huffing indignantly. 

      “You spoil him.” The auburn haired man said with a crooked smile.

Jack laughed wholeheartedly amused at the man's words. “Someone has to.”

The emerald eyed male shook his head and rolled his eyes in mock exasperation. “Sure. Just turn him into a spoiled dragon then we won't be able to manage him anymore. You have spoiled him enough. You turned him into that!” He said with heavy sarcasm as he gestured to the dragon looking at Jack with puppy dog eyes.

Toothless was begging to be scratched and petted again. Jack busted out laughing, clutching his sides as he laughed at the current situation. Luna huffed at her human companion. When he finally calmed down he beamed at Hiccup. Hiccup chuckled with mirth in his eyes as he gazed at the pale teenager. 

      “Am I supposed to feel sorry because I'm just gonna do it more!” 

      “Oh, the gods must hate me.” Hiccup said in mock horror.

Jack giggled at the other boy.

      “So Jack what all is there in this part of the North? You guys are further up here than Berk.” Hiccup inquired.

      “Well, out that way is Nightmare Island.” He said pointing out in the distance to the west.

      “No one is allowed to set foot or go out there.” North interjected when he heard what the two young men were speaking of.

      “Is there a reason?” The auburn haired man asked.

      “Too dangerous.” North replied simply. 

      “I went there once when I was thirteen. I don't remember a whole lot of it, but I remember there was darkness and a lot of blood. North and Bunny saved me. The stories around that place are not just scary stories to scare people.” Jack said, grimly.

Hiccup's eyes widened. “Oh, gods Jack! I'm so sorry I-”

       “It's fine. You didn't know and you were curious, but for your own safety don’t go there.” Jack said, giving the other a reassuring smile as he nudged his shoulder against Hiccup’s. 

Hiccup sighed at his own blunder. How does one react to that? Sure it's common in the Barbaric Archipelago, but even vikings get scared. Jack looked at Hiccup and nudged him. Hiccup looked at the smaller teen startled.

      “Quit being depressing.” Jack said with a playful smile.

Hiccup chuckled. “Alright, alright. So what's the story surrounding the place?”

       “Well, they say that someone that was once part of our tribe took a power trip on the dark side. So he was banished from the North Pole. But he grew angry so he settled down on a nearby island waiting for the day he could attack. Everyone says that anyone that sets foot there is never heard from again. I was just lucky.” 

North remained silent as he listened to the stories Jack had heard. In reality he wished it was that simple.

Hiccup rubbed the back of his neck. “No, you weren't just lucky. Maybe you were just meant to survive Jack and I'm glad you did.”

Jack smiled at the other male with a shrug. “Oh, and out that way is Burgess. That's where Mary and I are from. There's a lake there called Mirror Lake. They say that it stays frozen all year around.” 

The white haired boy pointed out in the distance to the east with a far off look crossing his face.

      “So you weren't always here?” Hiccup asked, surprised.

Jack shook his head. “No, I never knew my father, but I remember my mother. We lived off in the woods near a lake by ourselves.”

Hiccup nodded. He imagined from Jack’s reminiscing that his mother was no longer among the living, otherwise why would Jack be staying with North and Toothiana?

       “North and Toothiana took Mary and I after our mother passed.” Jack said as he pulled his legs to his chest and wrapped his arms around them. 

Hiccup placed a comforting hand on the younger boy's shoulder. Jack looked at him quizzically. The freckled man gave him a small reassuring smile trying to let him know he was there if he needed him. Jack returned the smile with a small one of his own. It was strange for Jack to be able to have someone he could almost call a friend. Well, one that wasn’t much older than him that is. North gave a small, almost unnoticeable smile as he gazed at the two young men. He was glad his instincts were not wrong. It was time Jack had friends and people outside of him and the other guardians that could be there for him. When the two were back to talking animatedly about the freckled viking’s map North looked out to the distance before standing up and walking over to the two preoccupied young men.

      “Well, now I say it’s time we head back, no?” North said as he watched Hiccup carefully pack his map away.

       “We have been out for a while.” Hiccup agreed as they went over to mount on their dragons and return.

Astrid scratched at Stormfly’s blue scales as her mind drifted off in thought. She thought about everything they’ve learned about the tribe so far as she looked over at Fishlegs. He was the one avidly reading their books. Maybe she should do the same. She sighed as she pushed over a bucket full of fish. Storm fly warbled at her rider gently before starting to eat the fish before her. She turned when she heard the flapping of dragon wings. She watched as she saw Toothless and Luna land with their humans on their backs. North let out a laugh as he sped by on a sleigh and nearly splashed Hiccup and Jack with snow when they dismounted from their dragons. Jack laughed as he waved to Hiccup and Toothless. Hiccup returned the wave as he watched Jack saunter away with Luna following beside him. Hiccup then turned and walked over to the dragon stables.

      “Hey Astrid.” Hiccup greeted coming to her side. 

Astrid smiled, giving him a small kiss to Hiccup’s freckled cheek. “Hiccup out having fun with your new friend?”

Snotlout leaned against the nearby wall and crossed his arms over his chest. “Oh, sure, go have fun and forget about the rest of us.”

Hiccup shook his head. “It’s nothing like that guys. Jack helped me send my message out to Berk and then we took Toothless and Luna flying. After that we just talked and came back here.”

      “What’s his deal anyways? He walks around like he owns everything.” Snotlout commented.

Hiccup couldn’t deny that. While everyone else had areas they weren’t allowed into outside of North’s close circle, Jack was free to roam practically anywhere so long as North knew his whereabouts. At least that’s what he gathered so far. Even Mary wasn’t afforded the same courtesy as some places Jack went Mary wasn’t allowed to follow. Aster walked past the group with a raised eyebrow upon hearing the conversation.

      “That’s because he’s North’s successor ya gumby.” Aster said shaking his head as he picked up a bucket of fish.

      “What?” Fishlegs asked wanting to make sure he heard correctly from where he sat with the book lowered.

       “Ya mean ya haven’t figured it out. Jack is afforded all his privileges because North named him his successor and practically adopted Jack and Mary.” Aster explained as he walked over to where Toothless had trotted into and dumped the fish in front of the night fury.

Toothless warbled happily digging into the fish right away. Aster lowered the bucket before turning back to the gaping group.

       “If that’s the case why isn’t Mary afforded the same courtesy then?” Astrid asked, crossing her arms.

      “Because she’s young and she’s not going to be running the tribe one day. While Jack may be young he still has a lot to learn before North decides to hand the reins over to him. Besides even with not being North’s successor Mary is still allowed many places other kids on the tribe her age aren’t allowed to enter. Both Mary and Jack know and understand the reasoning on why.” Aster explained with a shrug as he continued on.

The group was quietly digesting the new information they just learned. Fishlegs closed his book and in the place they were it sounded loud and snapped everyone out of their thoughts. Hiccup noticed the book in Fishlegs hands and smiled.

      “Find anything interesting in that book?” He asked the blonde viking.

Fishlegs nodded. “This book has some information on current and some former guardians along with their titles among other information.”

      “Someone was learning something at least.” Astrid said jokingly. 

      “I got to learn some things from North and Jack today as well. One being about the guardians.” Hiccup said as he took a stool and sat on it next to the stool Fishlegs was sitting on himself. “The guardians is just a shortened title from what I understand. They’re the guardians of childhood.”

Fishlegs nodded in agreement. “Yes, and each has something they protect. An example is there’s a guardian referred to as Mother Goose and she’s the guardian of stories.”

Snotlout raised an eyebrow. “Why would someone need to be the guardian of stories? Sounds kind of dumb if you ask me.”

       “Because kids rely on those stories, Snotlout. The guardians protect everything that makes a kid a kid in Jack’s words.” Hiccup explained to his cousin.

Snotlout shook his head with a huff before wandering over to his dragon. Hiccup shook his head before returning his attention to Fishlegs.

      “So what did you learn?” He inquired curiously.

Fishlegs’s face lit up as he dove into explaining what he read. “There’s a group of four well five now core guardians.”

       “Five?” Hiccup questioned.

Fishlegs nodded. “The guardians of wonder, hope, dreams, memories, and fun. But there’s not a lot of information on the guardian of fun. There’s more on the other four core guardians. There’s even more on other guardians that aren’t core guardians. Everywhere I’ve looked for information on the guardian of fun there’s very little information. Just that he’s the youngest of the guardians. In one book there were pages removed where information on the guardian of fun were supposed to be.”

Hiccup tilted his head as he rested his chin on fist. “That does seem rather strange. Seems like someone or more than one person doesn’t want people to know anything about the guardian of fun. But why would that be?”

Fishlegs shrugged. “That’s what I’m trying to figure out. Perhaps they’re trying to protect the guardian.”

Hiccup glanced over at Fishlegs. “But from what?”

Fishlegs shrugged. “I mean the guardians can die just like we can. One such guardian that died sacrificing himself to protect Mani was Nightlight. He was Mani’s trusted companion that stayed with him and sacrificed himself to keep Mani safe from someone called the Nightmare King.”

Hiccup frowned hearing that. “Well, that’s not disturbing at all. I wonder if that name correlates with the island no one in the tribe is allowed to set foot on?”

Astrid’s head whipped over hearing that. “Wait! What? There’s an island the people in this tribe are forbidden to set foot on?”

Hiccup nodded. “From what Jack told me he’s the only one that did and made it out with his life. It’s too dangerous. They call it Nightmare island and I’m willing to bet it’s not because it’s inhabited by the Monstrous Nightmares.”

Astrid frowned. “But why would they forbid people from going there outside of it being dangerous? Did Jack tell you?”

Hiccup shook his head. “Jack doesn’t remember most of it and what he does remember doesn’t sound pleasant. So please just drop it Astrid.”

Astrid sighed but did as asked. Fishlegs shifted uncomfortably before steering the conversation away from that topic.

       “Well, on the topic of guardians they each have powers. Some that correspond to what they’re the guardian of. It’s very interesting!” Fishlegs said opening the book back up.

       “Find out who the guardians were?” Hiccup asked as he leaned in to look at the book.

      “I was just getting to that part.” Fishlegs said as he turned the page and both he and Hiccup froze upon seeing the picture and what they read.

       “What is it?” Astrid asked.

When she received no answer she took the book and also froze before shaking her head. “You’ve got to be kidding me. The chief of this tribe is a guardian?!”

That shook both Fishlegs and Hiccup out of their stupor. Fishlegs quickly took the book back. In the book was a picture of what looked to be North in his younger years. He had dark hair and work attire similar to what he does now, but a bit different. He had two sabers. His beard was much shorter and both his mustache and beard were dark like his hair. The book detailed how Nicholas St North, also known as Santa Clause to some children, was the guardian of wonder. How he had fought in the battle against the Nightmare King.

      “Woah…” Tuffnut said quietly as he had somehow made his way over to see what the commotion was about.

       “That’s pretty cool. I have a new respect for the chief here.”

      “Okay okay. So the chief is a guardian. Are we to assume so are the rest of his inner circle?” Astrid asked as Fishlegs turned the page.

      “Uh, I’m going to say yes.” Fishlegs said as he turned the page showing a picture of Toothiana, but she looked very different.

The book detailed Toothiana with wings and described her as the Tooth Fairy and Queen of the tooth fairy army. Along with being the guardian of memories. As they turned the page they found that Aster was guardian of hope and Sanderson or Sandy as everyone called him was the bringer and guardian of dreams.

      “Okay so we met most of the core guardians.” Hiccup said disbelievingly.

Fishlegs nodded. “This is incredible. Can you imagine the things we can learn from them and the things and places we can see while we’re here.”

Hiccup nodded. It was rather astonishing to figure out that most of the core guardians were right in front of them this whole time.

      “Well, you and Jack are on good terms. Think he’d be willing to show us some of the places? Or maybe teach us? Berk might even be able to get a new ally out of all of this.” Fishlegs said excited.

      “I don’t know, but Fishlegs they don't really have much to do with other tribes from what I’ve seen and heard. I don’t take North as the type to budge on that.”

      “Sucks to be him.” Snotlout said. “He can barely travel anywhere.”

Hiccup frowned at Snotlout. He opened his mouth to say something only to be cut off from a couple roars. What in the name of Thor? Snotlout was trampled over by a slightly small sized dragon. A bigger dragon that was as big as Hookfang followed it. Another would be as tall as North and the last one towered over all of them. They all looked identical except for size. They had scales that matched the color of the snow with some light gray scales here and there. There were some fins along their back as well. They had tusks and their eyes were a vivid bright blue. 

      “Guys!” Jack exclaimed as he was tackled by the smallest of the four dragons when he started to approach.

Luna grumbled with an annoyed huff. The light fury eyed the new dragons with great annoyance.

      “Uh, Jack?” Hiccup questioned. 

      “Oh, right! This is Snowstorm.” He said as he sat up with the smallest of the dragon in his lap. 

Hiccup nodded showing that he was listening.

      “This guy here,” He said gesturing to the dragon that stood at North's height. “His name is Frostbite.”

      “Seriously Jack?” Hiccup asked with a chuckle.

      “Yep! Then this girl,” He said gesturing to the third largest dragon. “That is Snowpiercer.”

     “A lot of snow and ice related names.” Astrid said with slight amusement.

      “And this big guy here is Icecrusher.” He said gesturing to the largest dragon.

      “What kind of dragon are they?” Fishlegs as with great interest.

      “I've never seen anything like them. Their scales indicate that they are definitely in the ice category.” Hiccup said joining Fishlegs as they analyzed the dragons.

     “Are they nerding out again?” Tuffnut asked.

      “When don't they?” Ruffnut shot back.

      “They're Bewilderbeasts. I found them all when they were injured severely and Snowstorm was just an egg.” Jack explained.

The small dragon in the pale teen's lap nuzzled his chest. The small male laughed in joy as he scratched the dragon's scales. The other dragons laid down downvoted closer. Frostbite nudged the side of Jack's head causing him to chuckle fondly. Icecrusher licked the other side of the boy's face. Then Snowpiercer wrapped her body around the boy as she laid down. It was like a group of little kids vying for their mother's attention.

      “I think they believe Jack is their mother.” Fishlegs said with a soft laugh as he watch Jack with the dragons.

      “Didn't he say he found them when they were young?” Astrid questioned.

      “So Jack's a dragon mother?” Hiccup asked amused.

      “Keep laughing and I'll sick my dragon children on you all!” Jack yelled laughing with mirth.

Hiccup rolled his emerald eyes. “Yes, we wouldn't want that. We would certainly be doomed.” He said with sarcasm.

      “I knew you'd see it my way!”

      “Oh, shut up. I just don't know what to say to all that!” Hiccup said gesturing to the male surrounded by dragons.

Astrid was silent as she watched the two males interact as they started to laugh. From the other side of the stables Aster stood leaning against the wall with his arms crossed. He had a frown upon his face. It made no difference that they knew they were guardians after all North opened the library to them. Thankfully Toothiana got to learn of their bloody history with the dragons and their history with some of the other tribes. And quite the bloody history with dragons they had. It’s surprising how they changed it around. He was just glad they had the foresight a long time ago to remove any traces of Jack being a guardian. It’s not that they were ashamed of him, but people have hunted for the illusive guardian of fun. More specifically because of his powers. Who wouldn’t want someone who could wield ice, snow, and affect the weather under their control? That and the messy ordeal with Jack’s missing memories. It was better to keep Jack’s identity hidden from outsiders. While these ones may not mean harm that can always change. Aster wasn’t willing to risk that and neither was North or the others. He listened as Jack laughed with the group. He just hoped this didn’t come to bite them all in their asses later. 

Chapter Text

Hiccup sat at a workbench as he carefully hammered in some pins on Toothless’s prosthetic tail fin. It needed some adjustments made to it and proper maintenance. Thankfully North was kind enough to let him use the forge to work on it. He looked up when he heard a small knock on the doorway and looked up to see Aster himself. Hiccup paused as he and Aster didn’t interact much mostly due to the older man’s apparent distaste for Hiccup and the others. He made it clear he was tolerating them because of North’s choice to let them stay here.

       “Uh, is there anything you need?” Hiccup asked, uncertain.

Aster looked at the other man with a frown marring his features before he let out a loud sigh. “Relax I’m not gonna feed ya to the dragons. I came to talk.”

Hiccup gave the other an incredulous look which Aster noticed and shook his head.

      “Trust me it ain’t because I want to. But as much as I don’t trust you or your little rag tag group I know that North at least trusts you enough to let you stay. Jack even if he won’t admit it trusts you because North does. He may not trust you as much as North, but you hold something that Jack has been itching to hear about for years.” Aster said, crossing his arms as he leaned against the doorframe.

      “And that would be what exactly?” Hiccup asked cautiously, already not liking where this was going.

       “Knowledge and stories of places outside of the north and outside of the tribe.” Aster said with an ever present frown.

Hiccup raised his eyebrows in clear question. “Has Jack never seen or been to places outside of here?”

That couldn’t be right. Jack was a dragon rider. He had Luna. How could he not know the world outside of his tribe and the islands of the north? 

Aster shook his head with a resigned sigh. “Look I know what you’re probably thinking. But as hard as it may be to believe Jack hasn’t seen the world outside of our tribe and the isles of the north. For good reason, too. There’s a lot you don’t know. But I’m warning you now keep those stories to yourself. We don’t need you lot filling his head with ideas that will put him in danger.”

Hiccup scowled at the implications. “And how would our stories fill his head with dangerous ideas exactly? If he hadn’t seen the world it’s normal to want to hear about it. You think the traders that do business with your tribe don’t have stories Jack probably hears. He can make decisions for himself as far as I’m concerned.”

Aster glared at Hiccup standing straight to his full height as he slowly walked closer to the auburn haired viking. “Ya say that, but at least the stories he hears from others doesn’t involve taking on other viking tribes or dangerous dragons. Ya see mate it didn’t take a lot of digging to find the tales of your group and what you’ve all done. You lot may liberate dragons but you’ve got a bad habit of getting in over your head if the stories are true. Besides, it's not as if we make it a habit of making friends with other tribes. They tend to steer clear of the north isles if you haven’t noticed.”

Aster came to a stop in front of Hiccup, the two of them glaring at each other. 

       “They steered clear until now. What’s to stop the next ones from coming here by force? And you may have heard the stories, but what does that have to do with Jack?” Hiccup inquired.

He didn’t like how Aster spoke as if Jack wasn’t allowed off the island. Unless?

Hiccup paused. “He’s not allowed anywhere outside the isles is he?”

Aster scowled, taking a step back as he looked down at the freckled man. “That’s none of your business. But I’ll warn ya now. If anything happens to Jack and I find out it was the fault of you or your friends you won’t have to worry about your trip home because I’ll make sure all your future journeys come to a halt here. Permanently.”

Hiccup frowned, crossing his arms over his chest. “I wouldn’t hurt him. Neither would the others.”

      “Maybe not on purpose, but everyone has a hidden agenda.” Aster said as he turned on his heels. “Just heed the warning. I’ll be keeping a close watch on you all and especially you.”

With that Aster left the forge leaving the way he came. Hiccup let out a breath. What in Odin was that about? Hiccup uncrossed his arms as he sat and continued his work on Toothless’s tail fin. He needed something to keep him busy. That painted quite a picture and not one Hiccup liked. Jack had a light fury and was a free spirit. Jack was essentially restricted to the northern isles, not allowed to leave and see what was beyond those borders. Jack who was chomping at the bits to learn of their tribe and hear their stories. Yet it made sense as to why now. He wasn’t allowed to leave and the north didn’t do dealings with other tribes they kept to themselves. But if North was as worried about Jack getting into danger as Aster was, maybe since they are the first to get past their barriers they may be able to set an alliance between both of their tribes. But Hiccup needed to know more before he proposed that. Hiccup deep in thought didn’t hear North enter the forge until he heard the man speak causing Hiccup to startle. Toothless who also had finally made his way back to the forge had chuffed out a laugh.

       “Hiccup sorry for startling you. Jack said you were still in the forge so I thought I’d come. That and I need to fix Ana’s daggers.” The older man said as he walked over to a different work bench and sat the daggers on the table.

       “Oh, yeah. Well, I mean it’s your forge.” Hiccup said with a small chuckle rubbing the back of his neck.

North shook his head as he sat down on a stool and pulled out the tools he needed as he examined the daggers. The man shook his head as he looked to see the daggers had been chipped away and cracked. 

       “Nonsense! You can use the forge or come join me in my workshop anytime.” The man said jovially. “Hm. Looks like I’ll need to make new ones. Ana really did a number on these.”

The man carefully removed the hilt of the daggers from the blades as he went about making new ones and getting the metal he needed so he could melt it down and put it in the molds he had for Toothiana’s daggers. Hiccup watched the man work as if it was second nature to him. Hiccup himself knew that working in a forge a lot means one can start having old routines after working or repairing things repeatedly. Hiccup gave a nervous smile to North as he walked over to Toothless and reached the prosthetic tail fin. 

      “Can I ask you a few questions if it’s not too much trouble?” Hiccup asked the other man.

North nodded as watched the melted down metal pour into the molds. “Of course Hiccup. I hope I can answer these questions.” 

Hiccup ran a nervous hand through his hair. “So you don’t have to answer if it’s a tribe secret obviously, but I was wondering… we found a book on the guardians and I saw that you, Toothiana, Aster, and Sanderson—”

      “Sandy.”

Hiccup paused. “Excuse me?”

       “We call Sanderson Sandy.” North simply explained.

      “Right well I read that you all were guardians along with there being a fifth one that there was no information on other than this guardian being the youngest. So I was wondering how you guys became guardians?” Hiccup asked curiously.

       “We were chosen by Mani or as some of us refer to him as Man in Moon. Mani asked us to answer the call and we did for one reason or another Mani chose us to protect the children. Believe it or not I was an outlaw known as the bandit king before I became a guardian.” North said with a chuckle.

Hiccup gaped, absolutely shocked by that revelation. “You’re kidding, right?”

North shook his head. “No, it’s true. I used those skills quite well during the battle of the Nightmare King. Of course I had help.”

      “Who is the Nightmare King?” Hiccup asked. “Based on the name I’m guessing he wasn’t someone you invited to dinner.”

      “He was a man that had betrayed Mani and went back on this oath. He’s the reason why one of the guardians and Mani’s own companion, Nightlight, perished. He is no longer among us so you’ll never have to worry about crossing his path.” North said grimly.

      “Uh, right. Well, can I ask about the fifth guardian?” Hiccup asked, drawing North’s attention.

      “You wish to know about our youngest?” North asked surprised.

      “I mean yeah. There’s plenty of information on you guys and what you do, but nothing on the fifth one. Not even their name or gender. It’s natural I’d be curious about them.” Hiccup said as he started to clean up the workbench he had used.

North regarded the other with the smallest bit of amusement. He had noticed that, had he?

      “I can’t say much about our youngest guardian. But I can tell you a few things.” North relented.

As long as he didn’t let too much information go it wouldn’t hurt. It would be more suspicious if he kept it tight lipped

      “The youngest guardian joined us when he, himself, was still considered a child. The guardian of fun didn’t have the greatest beginning. His was a beginning of loss. But even through all that he’s retained his child-like nature and his bright outlook. He may not come off as the most trusting, but he’s as mischievous as they come.” North said with a chuckle, remembering all the pranks Jack had played on Aster. “In fact he and Aster used to be at odds. I was unsure if they would ever be able to work together in the beginning. That is all I can really tell you. Not because I don’t want to, but Hiccup our youngest we have him hidden away because it is too dangerous for him. There have been those who have tried and failed to capture him for his powers. He is powerful, but that is what puts a target on his head. He is still young and naive to the outside world.”

Hiccup nodded in understanding. “That’s why the information on him had been removed.”

North nodded. “It is to protect him. So I ask that you cease your search for information on him. You won’t find it.”

Hiccup nodding acquiescing to North’s request. It was clear to see that it meant a lot to him and probably the other guardians, too. It did make Hiccup curious as to who the guardian was, but he could always revisit that another time.

      “Thank you for telling me.” Hiccup thanked the older viking.

      “No thanks needed. Now why don’t you and your dragon run along to your friends?” North said, ushering the auburn haired man out of the forge with the night fury.

Jack fidgeted where he sat on a roof. One foot dangling off the roof while his other knee was bent with an arm resting on top of it. His staff laid beside him. His hood was up over his head. He was beginning to feel restless. With their visitors he’s had to be careful about showing his ice powers. North and Aster both said it wasn’t a good idea to use them out in the open like he usually did. He cursed these powers he had. Aster has had to put off their usual sparring with their powers due to the dragon riders being here. Aster had said he didn’t want to risk one of them accidentally stumbling upon them using their powers. He didn’t care if they saw him but Aster was concerned about them seeing Jack use his. He let out a quiet huff as he felt Luna come settle beside him. He lifted his hand and ran his fingers over her smooth white scales. He was getting restless without the use of his powers.

      “Jack!”

Jack looked down to see Mary standing there with the twins. He smiled with a small wave at the three that were looking up at him.

       “Jack get down from there. Let’s go to the northern island. You promised!” Mary said, placing her hand on her hips causing the twins to snicker.

      “One must not break their promises.” Ruffnut mock lectured the snowy haired teenager.

      “For shame to those that break their promises. May their pinkies fall off.” Ruffnut agreed joining in the mock lecture.

Jack shook his head smiling as he picked up his staff and flipped down to the snow covered ground. Luna followed by jumping from the roof to follow her human companion. 

      “Alright, alright. No need to lecture. Maybe we can see the dragons while we’re there. The sky is clear which means the sun will be out and it will be warmer today.” Jack said, leaning against his staff. “So what do you say?”

Mary nodded in excitement. “Do you think the others would like to go?”

Jack hummed as he walked over to Mary taking her hand. “We can certainly ask.”

      “Are the Thorstons not enough for you two?” Ruffnut tutted at the siblings.

      “Or are we so great you need extra company not to feel too small in the presence of the great Thorstons!” Tuffnut added with great bravado.

Jack snickered. “Oh yes we need more mediocre people to not feel too overwhelmed by you both.”

Tuffnut grinned. “I knew it!”

Ruffnut rolled her eyes with a smile ever present on her face.

Mary shook her head as they continued their walk with Luna following beside them rolling her eyes at the twins. As they continued down the streets they saw Astrid and Hiccup on Stormfly and Toothless flying overhead.

      “Astrid! Hiccup!” Mary called to them, waving her free hand.

Both of the vikings looked and spotted the small group. Hiccup nodded his head in their direction when he looked at Astrid, who returned his nod as the both of them descended. Once they landed both vikings climbed off of their dragons.

      “Hey guys.” Hiccup greeted as he approached.

       “What are you all up to?” Astrid asked as she walked up to them, Stormfly following closely.

       “We’re going to the northern island and we’re going to visit some of the dragons there. Do you wanna come?” Mary asked the two excitedly.

      “You are, are you?” Astrid asked looking over at Jack.

Jack smiled in response to Astrid’s inquiring gaze. “I promised Mary I would take her and we’ll since I’m technically on viking sitting duty it wouldn’t be going against North’s wishes if you guys tagged along. Unless you particularly enjoy Aster’s company?” 

       “Not necessarily.” Astrid said, crossing her arms. “Well, it beats sitting around here all day so count me in.”

       “I’d like to tag along, too. It would be nice to actually see the other islands.” Hiccup said. “Besides, someone has to make sure those two stay out of trouble.”

        “I resent that.” Ruffnut said, crossing her arms.

       “We stay out of trouble just fine thank you!” Tuffnut said, also crossing his arms.

       “Yes, name one time we got into trouble.” Ruffnut added, sticking her chin out in challenge.

       “How about the time we left you in charge of Dragon’s Edge?” Hiccup deadpanned unimpressed.

        “Alright. Fair point.” Tuffnut relented. “But we were younger then.”

Jack quietly snickered as he glanced between the group. “I feel like there’s a story there.”

Hiccup shook his head. “A long one.”

       “Well, we’ll have plenty of time for you to tell me on the flight there. But first let’s see if Fishlegs and Snotlout want to come.” Jack said as he and Mary walked ahead of the others with Luna trailing behind them.

Hiccup let out a soft sigh as he followed the siblings with Toothless trotting along beside him and the others following not too far behind. They stopped by the library which seemed to be one of Fishlegs’s favorite spots as he frequented it often. 

       “Hey, Fishlegs. Jack is going to take us to the northern island of the north isles. You interested?” Hiccup asked the blonde viking.

Fishlegs paused in his reading, closing the book as he turned to the group. “I think I’d like that. It would be a nice change in scenery.”

       “Don’t get too excited we’ll be visiting some of the dragons while we’re there.” Jack added.

       “That’s fine by me.” Fishlegs said with a nod of understanding.

       “Alright that just leaves Snotlout then. Any idea where he’s at?” Jack inquired.

       “Last I saw he was out near the dragon stables with Hookfang.” Fishlegs informed.

Jack nodded as he turned to continue on his way with the group following behind him. When they got closer to the dragon stables they saw Snotlout leaning against Hookfang as he ate. Jack came to a stop in front of the other viking who turned his gaze to Jack.

      “What do you want?” Snotlout asked disinterestedly.

Jack shrugged. “Nothing much. Just figured I’d ask if you wanted to blow this island for a bit and join us on the northern part of the isles or not. Your choice.”

Snotlout paused looking at the other while turning his words over in his head. It would certainly beat staying around here bored. That and he did not want to have to be stuck hanging around that Aster guy. The guy glares at practically anything they did even when they so much as breathed wrong around him!

      “Yeah, whatever. I guess I’ll come along.” Snotlout said not wanting to seem like he was interested in the trip.

Jack grinned and turned on his heels. “Then get ready because we leave now.”

Snotlout sputtered. “Right now?! Give a man more time for Thor’s sake!”

      “Get moving or get left behind!” Jack cackled.

Snotlout scowled, straightening up from where he had leaned against Hookfang. “Don’t tell me what to do!”

He watched as Jack disappeared with his sister probably to get Luna ready to depart. He turned to the others as all except Astrid and Hiccup were putting their saddles on their dragons. Astrid and Hiccup stood off to the side since their dragons were already saddled up and ready to fly from the flight they took them on earlier.

       “What are we supposed to even do on this island? Is there even going to be anything other than more ice and snow?” Snotlout asked as he finished fastening the saddle on to Hookfang.

      “Jack did say there are dragons there.” Fishlegs said with a slight bounce to his step as he packed some necessary supplies into a bag he was fastening onto Meatlug.

      “Great! So you and Hiccup get to have fun with the dragons. How about the rest of us?” Snotlout said, crossing his arms.

       “You could always stay here.” Astrid said, pointing out the obvious.

       “And stay with the old man that has an attitude problem and a glare permanently glued to his face? No thanks!” Snotlout said with a dismissive wave at the idea.

       “Then stop complaining. At least we’ll be able to see the other islands to the isles and we may even be able to get a grasp of the layout.” Astrid said, petting Stormfly’s scales.

       “Me thinks the last doth has a point.” Tuffnut said as he and Ruffnut had just finished fastening their saddles and bags onto Barf and Belch.

       “A point she does make.” Ruffnut agreed with her brother.

Hiccup looked up when he heard the sound of flapping wings just in time to see Luna land with Jack and Mary in her back. Jack sat in front with Mary directly behind him. Her arms around her brother and holding his staff across his lap so it locked her hold on her brother. Mary also had a brown cloak with white fur lining the hood wrapped around her. Jack looked over and grinned as he saw everyone was packed and ready.

      “Alright everyone ready?” Jack asked the others.

      “As ready as we’ll ever be.” Hiccup said as he and the other dragon riders mounted their dragons.

      “Then let’s go!” Jack exclaimed as Luna crouched down and then shot up into the sky.

      “Woah!” Ruffnut marveled as the other dragons hurriedly took off to catch up with the light fury.

      “Try to keep up!” Jack called to them followed by a giggle from Mary.

Hiccup shook his head in amusement as he and Toothless caught up with Luna, Jack, and Mary. Being that Toothless was a night fury it wasn’t hard for him to catch up to the others as both Toothless and Luna are fast fliers. The others followed behind the furies on their dragons. All excited to see what more the north had to offer.

Hiccup watched as Jack had Luna weave about in the air. Sometimes she would do an upside down loop causing Mary to laugh in joy. Jack’s laugh joined in soft like bells. Luna herself seemed to be having fun with her rider and his sister. The twins whooped telling Jack to do more tricks. They were getting enjoyment just by watching Jack’s tricks on the light fury. Hiccup looked over to see Snotlout looking bored with both arms crossed while Fishlegs silently watched. Astrid remained ever stoic as she watched the display. Hiccup glided closer on Toothless to Jack and the light fury. 

       “How further out are we?” Hiccup asked, inquiring when they would get there.

Don’t get him wrong. He wasn’t getting impatient and he loved flying. But he’d rather be on solid land before Snotlout or the twins decided to start making themselves everyone’s problem.

Jack turned to Hiccup. “We’re almost there. It should just be up ahead right there.”

The white haired young man pointed ahead. Hiccup looked to see the island and his hand itched to add it to the section on his map dedicated to the North Isles. The island itself had quite a bit of green from forests and other vegetation. It was covered in a light dusting of snow with some areas covered in a much heavier layer of it. 

        “Welcome to the northern part of the isles. Thankfully you guys get to see the isles during our warmer season.” Jack said, leaning forward on Luna. “Alright girl. Take us down.”

Luna let out a soft chirping warble as the light fury descended. The other riders followed behind.

      “Warmer season?! You’re telling me it gets even colder!” Snotlout exclaimed aghast. 

      “Well, yeah. What do you think would happen the further north you traveled from Berk? The further north you travel the colder it gets.” Jack said with a shrug. “Why do you think it’s so cold here?”

      “You muttonhead. Of course it’s going to get colder.” Tuffnut tutted at Snotlout.

      “Changed in location means a change in climate depending where you travel.” Ruffnut added with a roll of her eyes.

       “Careful Ruffnut that sounded smart.” Jack teased.

       “I can be smart when I want to.” She said with a grin.

      “I can too!” Tuffnut added.

Jack huffed as they reached snow covered land. The ground was covered in grass which was covered in snow. There were trees around and in the distance there were mountain tops covered in snow and ice. Mary held Jack’s staff as he dismounted from Luna and helped her do the same taking his staff from his sister afterwards. The other riders also climbed off of their dragons. Jack twirled his staff as he looked into the distance before turning his attention to Mary.

      “So, dragons first?” He asked with a soft smile when his sister nodded excitedly. “Just remember you have to be careful. You can’t approach them too quickly, otherwise they may think you’re a threat.”

      “I remember.” Mary said, taking her older brother’s hand.

      “Alright. Come on guys, let's go.” Jack called to the others as he walked ahead and only turned to make sure the other riders and their dragons followed.

They traveled through a small wooded area. Jack told stories to his sister to help the time pass by quicker. It was interesting hearing the stories Jack spun. The current story he was telling was a tale of the lost boys and a place called Neverland. His tone flecked up and down at different intervals at different parts of the story. Mary was enraptured with the story giggling at some parts and gasping in surprise at others . Jack spoke as he woke his way around trees, ducking underneath underbrushes, and hopping over fallen trees making sure to help Mary do the same. He glanced back at them occasionally to make sure they were able to keep up. Once they cleared the trees there was a snow covered path up a mountain side. Jack carefully made his way up looking at his sister. 

      “Things are going to be icy here.” Jack said, kneeling down and allowing his sister to climb on his back.

He shifted his staff and placed his hands under Mary’s knees. Mary had her arm securely wrapped around her brother’s shoulder. Once he made sure she was secure he stood up and continued on. 

Jack glanced back at the other riders. “Try to follow my steps if you don’t want to slip on a patch of ice.”

Hiccup watched as Jack carefully weaved around areas of ice. His feet light as they danced around the ground quietly dodging the patches of ice, even the ones hidden by the snow. It was like watching someone who was used to doing something so repetitively that it became muscle memory. Jack had done this and been here many times. When they reached a small slope in the mountain Jack carefully slid down it stopping in front of a cave. He turned back as he set down Mary. He placed his index finger to his lips indicating for the others to remain silent. He let out a soft tune of two whistles into the cave. The first long and high pitched and the second low and short. Hiccup and the other riders looked perplexed as Jack crouched down waiting. Mary stood behind him and joined her brother when he motioned for her to crouch down with him. All was quiet until a loud rumble echoed from the cave until a snow wraith zipped out overhead dusting them all with snow until it landed right behind them. Jack let out a startled laugh as the other riders stepped back as the dragon flared out its wings before folding them down. Jack stood up and motioned for Mary to follow as he slowly made his way around the other riders and to the white scaled dragon.

       “Was that really necessary Snowdancer?” The white haired boy asked with fondness as he stretched out his hand, stopping before touching its snout.

The dragon’s blue eyes looked at Jack and pressed its snout into Jack’s hand letting out a huff through its nose. Jack chuckled as he motioned Mary forward. His sister came forward slowly and did the same as her brother. The dragon gave another huff at the brunette girl who giggled.

      “I think she remembers you from last time.” Jack said to his sister with a smile.

Astrid took a careful step closer causing the snow under her boots to crunch. The dragon whipped its head in her direction, eyes narrowed into slits as it growled. Her and the other riders paused at the sound as Stormfly jumped to her riders defense returning a growl. Jack quickly got in between the two dragons arms outstretched.

      “Woah! It’s okay! They’re with us Snowdancer.” Jack said gazing into the snow wraith’s eyes.

The dragon gazed back into Jack’s eyes before looking to Luna who gave an annoyed rumble. The dragon backed off exhaling a cloud of smoke. Stormfly followed suit now that her rider was no longer being threatened. 

      “Well, thanks for the save.” Astrid said reluctantly.

Jack shrugged. “Snow Wraiths are territorial by nature. If I didn’t intervene we would have had a dragon fight on our hands and that’s something I definitely don’t want to get in the middle of.”

      “My money would have been on the snow wraith.” Tuffnut said. “Stormfly wouldn’t stand a chance.”

       “I have to disagree. Stormfly is fast. She would have easily conquered that fight.” Ruffnut disagreed with her brother causing the twins to spiral into bickering on who would have won in the dragon fight.

      “Do you name all the dragons you meet?” Hiccup asked Jack as he came beside the other gazing up at the snow wraith who Mary was happily petting.

      “Just some of them. Mary helped me name a few and sometimes one of the others will suggest a name. Snowdancer was actually named by Tooth.” Jack said with a shrug.

       “Uh, Tooth?” Hiccup questioned guessing it may be Toothiana, but wanted to make sure since it was his first time hearing the nickname.

       “Toothiana.” Jack said with a smile. “North calls her Ana sometimes, but most of us call her Tooth.”

Hiccup nodded in understanding just in time to see the snow wraith let out a puff of air before turning and going further up the mountain.

      “Woah, woah, woah. And where do you think you’re going young lady? I still have to check your leg after I had to patch you up last week.” Jack scolded the white dragon following after her in quick strides.

Hiccup covered his mouth stifling a chuckle as Jack scolded the dragon like a mother would a mischievous child. Fishlegs joined Jack as the white haired teen got the snow wraith to show him her leg. It was an old healing wound that was easy to tell as there were scales missing in one area showing red angry flesh that had been pierced with something sharp. The wound was scabbed over and in the later stages of healing. Fishlegs observed as Jack checked the wound to make sure he didn’t miss anything.

      “Looks good Snowdancer. I’d say another few weeks to let your scales grow back in and you’ll be good as new.” Jack said, stepping back away from the dragon.

      “How did that happen?” Fishlegs asked.

      “Dragon trappers.” Jack said with a dark scowl crossing his usually cheerful face. “I hate them.”

Hiccup couldn’t agree more with the sentiment. Before anyone could say anything else Jack quickly moved on continuing back into motion.

      “Well, come on. There is more to this island. I’d show you the rest of the snow wraiths but it’s best not to disturb them if they didn’t come when I called.” Jack explained as he held his hand out to Mary who happily took it.

      “Where to now?” Snotlout asked disinterestedly.

      “Well, to the center of the island of course.” Jack said with a grin as he slid down the slope of the mountain stopping making sure the others followed.

The others trudged behind the two siblings and Luna the other dragons beside their riders as they followed. 

      “Are we sure this isn’t an elaborate plan to murder us?” Ruffnut asked as they traveled deep into the forest they entered.”

      “What?!” Hiccup cried out appalled. “Why would you even think that?”

      “I have to agree with Ruffnut dear leader.” Tuffnut said looking around at foliage around them. “This is a classic lure the unsuspecting victims in before you ambush them! No one would even know we’re out all the way on the edges in a forest. Perfect setting.”

      “And he just happened to bring his sister?” Astrid queried. 

      “She’s obviously in on it.” Ruffnut justified crossing her arms.

      “Right. She’s what? Like eight?” Astrid said, raising an eyebrow.

       “A perfect time to learn from her brother!” Tuffnut said as if that answered it all. 

Astrid opened her mouth to respond only to stop with Tuffnut shrieking when Jack spun down from the branch of a tree right in front of his face. Tuffnut flailed falling into the snow causing the white haired teen to laugh as he flipped down. Mary stood a bit further giggling at the display.

      “Tuffnut if I wanted to kill you I would have fed you all to Snowdancer. Less of a chance of anyone being able to come across a murder scene and more clean.” Jack said with mirth dancing across his face. “Now come on before I decide to throw the next one of you into a snowbank.”

Tuffnut hopped out of the snow dusting himself off. “But how do I know that’s not how you’ll disarm us.”

Jack raised an eyebrow at the blonde viking. “Or maybe my plan is to keep you suspecting so that way I’ll wear you down.”

Ruffnut paused looking at him. “I knew it.”

Tuffnut pointed his finger at the teen. “So you admit it!”

Jack smiled, stepping away. “I admit to nothing.”

Mary bounced up to her brother pulling him by the arm effectively bringing the conversation to a close as they continued on. The others followed closely behind in varying degrees of amusement. There were more things to see and do on the island. Maybe more dragons to see. It would be great if they found another species they have yet to see. After all, there was still a lot to learn about the north.

       “So your Snoggletog is like our Yule.” Mary said, listening intently as the riders explained their winter holiday.

During the walk through the forest her and Jack had started asking questions about some of Berk’s traditions and one of the subjects happened to be holidays. So they explained snoggletog to find that the Santoff Claussen tribe had a similar holiday.

      “From what you’ve told us of your Yule it sounds pretty similar.” Astrid agreed with the younger girl.

      “Wow. Who knew we had different names for them. Same holiday, different name. How did your ancestors even come up with that name?” Jack asked curiously.

       “We have no idea. We know why we celebrate it, but why we chose such a stupid name remains a mystery.” Hiccup answered his question, causing Jack to let out a bark of laughter.

      “It is not a stupid name!” Tuffnut defended.

      “Our ancestors had class with naming things.” Ruffnut added, agreeing with her brother.

       “Jack!” Mary called up ahead in alarm.

Jack rushed ahead to see what made his sister so alarmed. He came to a stop beside her looking at where she was pointing. 

       “Up ahead.” Mary said.

Jack’s icy gaze roamed and came to a stop on a broken dragon trap. What was left of it was made of metal and it had been melted. Parts from it were sharp like it had spikes meant to hold the dragon in place. There were downed trees as if there was a scuffle and further up was what looked to be marks from something heavy being dragged in the snow. Branches were littered on the snow covered ground and snow disturbed leaving footprints from boots. 

Jack growled in anger. “Trappers.”

The rest of the riders trailed their gazes upon the scene. It did not paint a pretty picture. Jack turned his gaze to Mary. 

Mary go back and whatever you do stay hidden until I come back to get you.” Jack said sternly.

       “But Jack–”

       “No buts. I mean it. I can’t take you with me. It’ll be too dangerous, but I can’t wait either.” Jack explained to his sister.

Mary’s lips thinned but nodded in understanding. “Okay. I’ll go back, but you have to promise to be careful.”

Jack crouched down to be at her height and held out a pinky. “Promise.”

Mary nodded, taking his pinking with one of hers as they gave them a little shake. She then turned to start walking back the way they came.

Hiccup stopped Jack with a hand on his arm when he went to turn. “Wait! Jack, we can help.”

       “No, you all need to stay put. Go back and keep an eye on Mary. You’ll only slow me down.” Jack dismissed immediately.

Snotlout sputtered. “Excuse me! What do you mean we’ll slow you down?!”

Jack looked at him as he took his arm out of Hiccup’s hold. “Just as I said.”

       “But you don’t know how many there are and helping would make it easier.” Astrid interjected. 

      “Or you it would make things worse.” Jack shot back.

       “Look Jack every second we stay here arguing is another second a dragon could be hurt so just let us help. Unless you can take our dragons with you there’s no way we won’t be coming too.” Hiccup reasoned looking at the other with a stubborn set of his jaw.

Jack stared down the auburn haired man unwavering. Hiccup returned his stare stubbornly matching his gaze and refusing to look away. The white hair teen clicked his tongue.

      “Fine. But I want one of you to watch Mary in case there’s any other trappers on the island.” Jack demanded.

       “That should be easy enough. Ruff, Tuff you guys get babysitting duty.” Hiccup told the twins.

      “What?! Why us?!” Ruffnut demanded to know.

      “Yeah why us? Wait, is it because we took such great care of chicken when we were younger?” Tuffnut asked as if coming to his own conclusion.

      “Yes, that's exactly why. It’s a very important mission.” Hiccup said, leaning into the reason Tuffnut provided.

      “Fine since no other can handle this task we shall accept with honor.” Tuffnut nodded to himself.

      “Great. Great. Why don’t you go get Mary then?” Hiccup suggested.

The twins then disappeared through the foliage where Mary had disappeared moments before. 

       “Alright since that’s settled in the air. I want to see where these tracks lead.” Jack said, climbing onto Luna and taking off into the air.

Hiccup, Astrid, Fishlegs, and Snotlout doing the same with their dragons. They glided close to Jack following him without disrupting him and Luna. Jack and Luna flew by the treetop where they could see the tracks and the damage done to the forest. There was a clear trail left behind which made it easier to follow. Luna’s sharp blue eyes trailed along the ground and banked right to glide down lower the closer to the shoreline they got. Jack leaned forward, his eyes locking where he saw ships. They landed and moved forward making sure to be quiet just in case someone was nearby. There were roars coming from the cages from the dragons inside on the ships. Jack’s lips thinned. He did not like this one bit. Trappers never came this far on their island before. To the southern part of the North Isles where it was warmer than the rest? Yes. But to the northern part where it was usually one of the colder parts? No. 

      “Alright, I say we make a plan.” Hiccup said, all eyes turning to him.

      “Do you have a plan?” Jack asked.

Hiccup nodded. “Snotlout and Fishlegs I want you to distract the trappers. Draw their attention away. Hit the stern and get any dragons back there free. Astrid I want you to disarm any weapons they may have to fire at our dragons. Jack you’re with me. We’re gonna release those dragons.”

Snotlout smiled. “I thought you’d never ask.”

Fishlegs looked determined. “Well, keep them distracted.”

Astrid grinned. “They won’t know what hit them.”

       “Should you be doing any of this with a concussion?” Jack questioned. “Tooth will kill me if you end up right back in the healer’s room so soon.”

       “I’ll be fine. I’ve done worse with worse injuries. I won’t do anything strenuous or risky.” Hiccup assured.

       “This whole thing is both strenuous and risky.” Jack deadpanned pointing out the obvious.

       “And we don’t have time to argue about this.” Hiccup said gesturing to the ships.

Jack looked between the ships and Hiccup before letting out a sigh. “Fine! But if anything happens to you it is not my fault.”

Hiccup nodded in agreement. “Alright then. Let’s do it!”

They all mounted their dragons and took to the skies. Snotlout and Fishlegs went first. They blasted part of the ships and some of the equipment on the deck of the ships. They broke cages in the rear of the ship. It caused all chaos to break loose. Yelling was incurred as men rushed to the deck and others shouting orders. They ran to try to keep the dragons so they wouldn’t flee. Astrid with Stormfly flew through destroying all the weapons in sight with the nadder’s spikes and fire. She made sure to get to them before they could load them up. Jack and Hiccup hit the deck of the ships. The Vikings aboard tried to rush them to no avail. Jack slid between legs tripping up dragon trappers with his staff. Hiccup weaved around the trappers as he and Toothless destroyed the doors of the cages allowing the dragons to flee. The dragons joined the fray attacking trappers that had caged them and tried to recapture them.

      “Woah! Careful!” 

Hiccup startled as Jack’s staff intercepted an axe meant for Hiccup. Jack pushed back, flipping the staff so it knocked into the trapper’s face causing him to stumble back. Luna took the chance to sweep her tail and knocked the man overboard.

      “That’s now the second time I saved you. You’re going to be wracking up a debt if this keeps happening.” Jack said as he slipped the keys he stole from one of the trappers out and freed the dragons.

      “Add it to my tab.” Hiccup said, waving off the snow haired man’s snark.

Snotlout and Astrid landed on the mast of the ship. 

      “Hiccup we need to go!” Astrid called. 

      “These guys are seriously ticked.” Snotlout said.

       “Well, you heard them, let's go.” Hiccup said to Jack as they climbed onto their dragons and took to the air.

      “Luna, you know what to do.” Jack said as the light fury turned and shot a plasma blast at the base of the ships ensuring they wouldn’t be able to sail.

      “Nice shot.” Astrid complimented.

Just as they flew to regroup, they noticed darkened clouds had rolled in and snow was coming down in heavy flakes. A snowstorm had come.as they flew it came down heavier and heavier. 

      “We need to land soon to regroup with the others and take shelter.” Hiccup called to the others.

The others yelled back their agreements as they rode on. Just when they saw Ruffnut, Tuffnut, and Mary break through the thicket of the forest is when things went south. A flash of lightning struck right in front of Luna causing the light fury to let out a panicked roar as she uprighted herself causing a violent jerk. The other riders dispersed to not be hit before gliding back towards the light fury. 

      “Woah! It’s okay Luna! It’s okay girl.” Jack tried to sooth the panicked dragon before the wind started to pick up. 

It was a violent wind and rough jerking of the riders and their dragons. Jack reached out with one hand trying to calm the winds or redirect it. Aster was going to kill him if the others realized what Jack was doing. Just as the wind was starting to let up a bit another bolt of lightning followed by a clap of thunder hit right by Toothless. Luna quickly glided over to the night fury just as Hiccup’s grip was slipping from the heavy snow and wind. Jack caught Hiccup just in time allowing him to readjust his grip on Toothless’s saddle. Hiccup looked over at Jack with a grateful look as Jack just gave him a two finger salute before gliding away on the light fury.

      “We need to land.” Hiccup called to the others.

 Just as they were about to get clear, another bolt hit, this time it managed to strike Jack as he let out a pained shout. Luna gave a violent jerk just as Jack slipped from her back unconscious. 

      “Jack!” Astrid panicked.

      “Hold on!” Hiccup called as Toothless tucked his wings in and descended fast to try to catch the young man free falling. 

Luna let out a distressed warble before diving down to try to get her rider before he hit the waters of the lake below. Jack’s staff slipped from his fingers as he continued to plummet down unconscious. The body of water below was fast approaching. Toothless and Hiccup along with Luna behind them continued their dive down to try to catch him. Mary had her terrified expression locked on her brother falling in the air. Right before Hiccup was able to grab ahold of Jack another bolt of lightning hit right between Luna and Toothless knocking them off course.

      “No!” Hiccup cried as he watched Jack’s body hit and sink in the lake.

      “Jack!” Mary cried as the riders all landed quickly. “You have to help him!”

Luna hopped on to the ice forming on the lake and let out a distressed roar as she tried to locate her rider. With how cold it was no one would be able to last under those waters for long. Hiccup quickly dived into the icy waters. When he was submerged he quickly glanced around and saw Jack’s white hair as he was sinking towards the bottom of the lake. Hiccup swam down wrapping an arm around Jack before turning and swimming towards the surface. He had to readjust his grip when Jack’s weight caused his grip to slip. Hiccup made sure to have an arm around Jack’s waist as he swam to the surface. Right before he broke the surface he felt a pull from the back of one of the traps of his armor before he was hefted out of the water that had more ice to it than it did before along the edges. He looked to see Luna let go of him as Hiccup sat Jack up as he coughed up water and took in gulps of breath. Mary ran over checking over her unconscious brother to make sure he was okay. Astrid approached Hiccup as he let out a long relieved sigh. Hiccup looked down at the shivering teen. He placed an arm around his back and one under his knees lifting the smaller man as he stood. He was surprised to find how light he was.

      “Come on, we need to find shelter and set up camp.” Hiccup said to the others.

Everyone nodded as the group walked into an empty cave nearby and started making a fire from fallen branches they found nearby. Mary helped Hiccup strip Jack out of his soaked clothes and wrap him in a wool blanket to keep warm as they sat by the fire. The young girl set Jack’s staff against a wall of the cave. She found it as it landed not far from them when Jack dropped it. Hiccup shed his wet clothes to wrap himself in a wool blanket as Mary sat next to her brother leaning against him to try to help him warm up quicker by sharing some of her body heat. Jack remained unconscious worrying Hiccup since the snow haired man was struck by lightning. Hiccup stretched out his hands to try to warm them as his and Jack’s clothes were set by the fire to dry them out. Jack was set leaning against Hiccup since both of them were the ones that were submerged by icy waters. Astrid sat down next to the auburn haired man. Hiccup looked over as she leaned her head against his shoulder.

      “How long do you think the storm will last?” Astrid asked. 

      “Hopefully it will let up enough in a couple hours so we can fly back.” Hiccup said as he leaned back against the blonde.

      “Will Jack be okay?” Hiccup heard Mary ask softly with a tremble in her voice.

Hiccup’s eyes widened at the question before morphing into something soft. “I’m positive he’ll be okay. Your brother is as tough as they come.”

Mary nodded as she tucked the blanket around Jack tighter. Hiccup hoped he was right, but Jack would be the third person Hiccup knows to have been struck by lightning. But he’s never seen someone of Jack’s size get hit by lightning directly.

Astrid looked over at the Frost siblings as Mary wrapped an arm around her brother, her tired eyes never straying from her older brother. Astrid ran the scene over in her head as to how and why the ice started to form on top of the water’s surface after Jack fell in. It just wasn’t possible for ice to form that quickly and to be thick enough to take the weight of a light fury no less. None of it made sense. 

      “Alright everyone let’s get some rest. We’ll rotate keeping watch.” Hiccup said loud enough so the others could hear.

      “I’ll take first watch.” Fishlegs volunteered as he and Meatlug ambled over towards the mouth of the cave, but close enough inside to stay warm.

Hiccup nodded to Fishlegs in thanks as he settled down to take a quick rest. Once the storm let up he and Jack could don their clothes again so they could fly back. But for now he just wanted to rest. Now that the adrenaline wore off it left Hiccup feeling fatigued. As he fell asleep the only thought that occurred to Hiccup is how did they get unlucky enough to actually experience a thundersnow.

North sat in his workshop as he tinkered away. He was making new ice skates for Mary. He put the hammer he had been using down when the door suddenly slammed open. It was one of the yetis. The yeti in question made quick hand movements as he spoke quickly. The yeti informed him the dragon riders had received a message from the riders that Jack had been injured and nearly drowned from being caught up in a snowstorm turned thundersnow. It also detailed that they had come across dragon trappers.

       “What do you mean Jack has been injured?!” North thundered as he hurriedly pulled on his coat and hurried out where he saw the riders.

He saw Hiccup carefully sliding off of Toothless and then hefting the pale teen into his arms and off of the night fury’s back. Mary was helped off of Stormfly by Astrid. The group turned to look at North wary as he approached. Hiccup met the chief’s eyes. North could see exhausted and worry in the auburn man’s green eyes. 

       “We freed dragons from the trappers we came across. The snowstorm that came in turned into a thundersnow and Jack got struck by lightning. He fell off of Luna and fell into a lake. I… I pulled him out, but he hasn’t woken up since. I’m so sorry.” Hiccup apologized, ducking his head in shame.

North placed a hand on Hiccup’s shoulder causing the other to look back up at the chief.

       “The way I see it. You saved him. He would have drowned had you not pulled him out. For that I thank you. Thank you for keeping him alive. Thank you for saving my son.” North said as he held out his arms for the unconscious boy.

Hiccup carefully transferred Jack into North’s arms. Hiccup stood and watched as North hurried to the healer with Toothiana joining him not too soon after. Hiccup turned back to the others and paused seeing Aster fast approaching them. Before Aster could reach the group Sandy intervened. He stood in front of Hiccup between the dragon riders and Aster with a stern expression. Sand appeared above his head in rapid succession in different symbols as he used them to communicate.

       “Ya can’t be serious Sandy. Jack leaves and comes back hurt. What do ya expect me to believe, huh?!” Aster asked angrily to the smaller man.

More symbols appeared above his head. It appeared the smaller man was defending them while simultaneously scolding Aster. Aster scowled as Sandy looked on at the other stubbornly.

Hiccup grimaced. “Blame us if you want to, but it won’t change what happened. Jack was struck by lightning and fell from Luna into a lake. We pulled him out.”

       “Actually Hiccup pulled Jack out. He dove head first into that lake and risked getting hypothermia in the middle of a snowstorm turned thundersnow.” Astrid said, locking defiant eyes with Aster. “If anything you should be thanking him. Jack could have drowned.”

       “Astrid please don’t.” Hiccup started trying to diffuse the situation.

Aster let out a long suffering sigh. “No, she’s right. If it weren’t for you who knows what would have happened to frostbite. So for saving him thank you. However, if it’s because you put him in danger that thanks will be quickly retracted and you lot will be dealing with me then.”

With that said Aster turned in a flurry kicking up snow as he stalked away from the group. Mary scowled with her features morphing into a small pout.

       “Just ignore Aster. He’s overprotective.” Mary said, trying to lighten the mood. “Oh! This is Sanderson Mansnoozie. We call him Sandy.”

Sandy created a hat with the golden sand that he used to take off his head in greeting with a smile.

       “Uh, nice to meet you.” Hiccup greeted.

       “He can’t talk so he uses his sand to communicate.” Mary explained. 

       “Nice to meet you little man.” Tuffnut said in greeting. 

       “Are all elders short or is it just me?” Ruffnut whispered, causing Mary to gasp in offense.

Sandy gave a silent laugh, finding the twins amusing. 

       “Hello, Sandy. It’s nice to meet you. I’m Astrid and those two muttonheads are Ruffnut and Tuffnut. The one that saved Jack is Hiccup. And those two there are Snotlout and Fishlegs.” Astrid introduced gesturing to each person as she introduced them.

Sandy smiled joyfully at Astrid with a nod before he gave a small bow.

       “He says nice to meet you, too.” Mary said, translating Sandy’s actions.

Sandy gave a small wave of farewell to the group before he turned to make his way to the healer to see how Jack was doing. He walked through the village and once he entered the healer’s hut he paused hearing Aster and North bickering.

      “I’m telling you it’s too coincidental! Jack comes back injured and you’re telling me they aren’t at fault?!” Aster demanded enraged.

      “If they were at fault why would they save him?!” North shot back just as infuriated.

       “I don’t know, maybe to not look bloody suspicious?!” Aster yelled, getting more heated.

      “If that were true, why come back at all?!”

      “Enough!” Toothiana yelled, silencing both men. “That’s enough! Amelia needs quiet to work!”

They turned as the healer in question worked her magic on Jack. There was a glow of light emitting from her hands as she healed the tree-like lesions from when he was struck by lightning. She was a young woman with chestnut brown hair and brown eyes. Freckles peppered her skin. She was wrapped in browns and oranges for her clothes. The marks on Jack slowly faded as she worked until eventually only snow pale skin was left behind. She rested her hand against Jack’s forehead and throat as the light continued from her hands. Jack had been heaving for air earlier. As she worked she gave a sharp glance over her shoulder every time Aster and North got loud during their squabbling. When she was done she pulled her hands back and tucked the feverish young man under the blankets and furs. She stood and turned to the guardians.

      “Jack will be okay. Fortunately there was no lasting damage physically. Once the fever subsides he should be back to his old self.” 

      “Thank you Amelia.” Toothiana thanked her gratefully. 

Amelia nodded her head as she left the room probably to take inventory of her supplies since she didn’t want to be around the bickering guardians. North sighed as he petted Jack’s white hair gently. He almost lost him again. He turned to look at the others as he sat on a stool at Jack’s bedside. North looked tired. Tired from worry. Tired from being suspicious. Tired from keeping Jack safe by hiding him away from the world.

       “I know how you feel Aster, but Jack would not be here were it not for Hiccup. I’m willing to trust them since they saved Jack. If you don’t like it we can wait until Jack wakes up and see what he thinks.” North said, exhausted. 

Aster let out a long sigh. “Alright. I can agree to that.”

Toothiana took their hands as Sandy approached, placing his hand on her leg gently patting it.

      “We almost lost one of us again. We almost lost him again. I think we can forgive ourselves and each other this time. He’s alive and he’s safe. They brought him home.” Toothiana murmured softly as she gazed down at the pale teen who was sleeping peacefully.

Sandy smiled as he spun a dream of snowflakes and dragons for the youngest of them.

Jack woke slowly. He felt like he was in a thick fog. The first thing he realized was that he was warm. The next thing he noticed was a smooth scaled head resting on his lap. He moved his hand as his body felt like lead and placed it on top of that familiar head. He heard a soft hopeful warble as he began to pet Luna. She purred contentedly happy that her rider was waking up. Jack blearily blinked opened his eyes to be faced with the ceiling of the healer’s hut. Confused and disoriented Jack slowly sat up still stroking Luna’s scales as he did so. He looked over when he heard the door open to see Toothiana. She dropped what she was holding before rushing over.

       “Jack! Thank goodness you’re okay!” Toothiana said gently, hugging him.

       “What happened?” Jack asked, still confused.

       “What do you remember?” North asked stepping into the room followed by Aster and Sandy.

       “I remember freeing the dragons the trappers had with the dragon riders and then getting caught up in that snowstorm.” Jack said looking down at Luna who let out a soft trill.

       “You were struck by lightning frostbite.” Aster stated bluntly.

      “That explains why my body feels like lead.” Jack said, trying to lighten the mood.

      “That’s not all.” Aster added.

      “There more?” Jack asked, astonished.

      “Jack.” Toothiana began slowly taking Jack’s free hand. “You almost drowned. Hiccup said you fell off Luna after getting struck by lightning and fell into a lake. Hiccup with the help of Luna managed to pull you out. They took shelter and made sure you stayed warm so you didn’t get hypothermia.”

Jack stared flabbergasted as the memory of being struck unconscious by lightning resurfaced. He remembered the immense pain he felt. Luna gave a soft warble as he bumped her head against Jack’s stomach where her head was resting near.

      “Well, then I better thank Hiccup.” Jack said, softly.

      “So you trust them?” Aster asked, raising an eyebrow.

Jack gave a small genuine smile. “Yeah, I think I do. They helped me free dragons captured by trappers and saved me. I’d say with the lifesaving they more than earned my trust.”

      “Jack.” Aster began as he did not like that line of thought. “Are you sure they did it out of kindness?”

      “Aster!” Toothiana exclaimed.

      “No, no! It’s okay Tooth. I probably would have thought the same thing, but I don’t think they have an agenda outside of making sure their tribe is safe. We should understand that more than anyone.” Jack said, looking at the others.

      “Well, if that’s the case I think we can take them off surveillance, no?” North said with a smile of his own.

Aster groaned. “Of course you’d say that.”

       “What? Riders are good people. We can trust them.” North said with certainty. “Now then Jack has people waiting to visit him.”

North ushered them out quickly causing Jack to blink in confusion. Other than Mary who could be waiting to visit him? His question was answered for him when the door opened and Mary ran over and hugged her brother. He returned the hug with a smile and looked up when he heard footsteps. Hiccup and Astrid were standing in the doorway. Jack gave them both a smile waving them into the room.

      “So I hear you saved me this time.” Jack said to Hiccup.

      “Uh, yeah.” Hiccup answered.

      “Thank you for saving me and for getting Mary home safe.” Jack thanked him, gazing up at the taller man.

      “Jack, you don’t have to thank me. I’m sure you would have done the same.” Hiccup assured the other. 

Jack nodded before he gave a mischievous grin leaning forward. “Clearing off your debt by paying me back, huh?”

Hiccup laughed at the joke as Astrid even chuckled herself.

      “For what it’s worth I’m glad you’re okay. We all are.” Hiccup said gazing at Jack with softening eyes.

      “Thanks. Well… North is going to take you guys off of being supervised.” Jack informed them.

      “Really?” Astrid asked, surprised.

      “Yeah, Aster may not like it, but you guys more than earned it.” Jack said with a shrug as Luna purred from the stroke of his fingers against her scales.

      “And how do you feel about it?” Astrid asked curiously.

       “I think after saving my life and helping with the trappers you guys more than earned my trust. Just do me a favor and don’t break it, okay?” Jack said with a small smile.

      “Well, we will be sure not to.” Hiccup said, returning Jack’s smile with one of his own. “Thank you for trusting us Jack.”

       “Don’t thank me yet.” Jack said with a chuckle.

Jack looked down when he felt a small at the long sleeve tunic he was wearing. His clothes had been changed while he was unconscious. He locked eyes with Mary who gave him a stern look.

      “Don’t ever do that again Jack!” She scolded.

      “Alright, alright! I’ll try not to. I can’t make any promises though since it wasn’t my fault.” Jack acquiesced.

      “Just so long as you don’t make having to be saved a habit.” Hiccup said with mirth.

Jack looked over at Hiccup surprised before he gave the man an amused look. “You’re one to talk.”

      “Alright you two.” Astrid said amused. “Well, let you rest Jack. But as Hiccup said we’re glad you’re okay. We weren’t sure you were going to be okay after being unconscious for a whole day.”

      “Woah! Hold up! I was out for a whole day?!” Jack asked, astonished.

Astrid nodded. “Yeah, it would have made day two if you didn’t wake up today.”

      “By Mani!” Jack breathed out.

      “Hey, the important thing is you’re awake now.” Hiccup soothed the other. “Luna had been worried.”

Luna let out a trill as she lifted her head and bumped it against Jack’s. Jack smiled as he leaned his forehead against hers with his eyes closed.

      “Sorry for worrying you girl. You did good though.” Jack murmured to Luna.

Luna let out a soft warble as he pulled away and licked Jack.

      “Ew! Luna, you know that doesn’t wash out!” Jack admonished wiping the light fury’s saliva off and flicking it off his fingers.

Hiccup and Astrid both laughed at Jack’s disgruntled expression and Luna's satisfied one. She was pleased with herself. 

Jack rolled his eyes. “Oh, ha ha. Laugh it up.”

Hiccup shook his head before giving Jack a pat on the knee. “Well, get going to let you rest. I think the others are planning to stop by. They’ll keep you entertained at least since I hear you’re confined to bed rest for a while.”

Jack groaned. “Bed rest? Seriously?!” 

Hiccup shook his head as he and Astrid left with one more wave leaving the siblings alone. Mary climbed into the bed with her brother hugging him around his torso as he returned her hug humming a soft tune to his sister. He hoped bed rest would only be a couple days. He hated being confined. And as it turned out bed rest was supposed to be a week, but in typical Jack form he didn’t listen. Fishlegs had stopped by for a visit where he and Jack both asked questions about each other’s tribes and answered them. It was a way to kill time and learn about each other’s tribes while Jack was forced to rest. Snotlout even reluctantly came for a visit. Not much really came of it other than making teasing remarks back and forth and sharing stories no matter how outlandish Snotlout’s sounded. The twins came by and Jack regaled them with some of the fairytales he told Mary. Both of them seemed to enjoy it, even asking questions. Astrid visited a couple more times checking in to see how he was. They even talked about weapons at some point. She seemed to like axes the most. Hiccup visited a lot. They would talk about a lot of different things from their tribes and families to dragons and anything else they could think about. By day three Jack got out of bed and ventured out only to stop when Hiccup caught him when he stood in the doorway that Jack was about to exit.

      “Why am I not surprised you’re the type to not listen to the healer’s orders?” Hiccup said with amusement.

Jack shrugged. “I don’t like being restricted, especially to a bed. Makes me feel like I’m dying.”

       “That’s fair. Just don’t over do it. If you want to wander around you can join me. At least join me to give me peace of mind.” Hiccup requested.

Jack rolled his eyes. “Fine.”

He pulled on a pair of boots and his cloak before the two of them went out the door. Snow crunched under their boots as they made their way through the village. Luna trudged along beside Jack. Jack waved to the excited kids that would stop to greet them as they passed. Just as they were nearby the forge Toothless sprung from a roof and left on top of Jack excitedly. He was happy to see Jack was okay.

      “Woah! Calm down there!” Jack said with a laugh.

      “Toothless!” Hiccup admonished the night fury. 

      “It’s okay.” Jack assured as he got up dusting off snow once Toothless backed off enough to allow him to do that.

Toothless bounded over to Luna and warbled. She looked at the night fury and gave a soft warble back.

      “What is this? I nearly die and am unconscious for a day and when I wake up you’re suddenly sociable.” Jack said, teasing the light fury.

Luna rolled her eyes and huffed. She swung her tail aiming for the back of Jack’s head and he quickly ducked. Clearly this wasn’t the first time she’s done that. Jack chortled in laughter. Jack scratched Toothless’s chin.

      “You must really be magical if you got past Luna’s just tolerate phase.” Jack said with a grin as Toothless warbled happily.

Hiccup shook his head and chuckled. Luna bumped her head against Hiccup who looked surprised before petting the scales near her ear plates. 

      “Not hissing at me anymore?” Hiccup asked with a soft smile receiving a soft warble in reply as the light fury glanced over at her rider.

Hiccup understood then. It was her way of saying thank you for saving her rider. Luna had been guarding the healer hut after they returned. Even before that when they were trying to leave Luna didn’t let anyone near Jack at first. It took Hiccup talking to Luna and pleading for the dragon to let them help him for her to relinquish her guard. He promised her he would keep her rider safe. It seemed that helped create a little trust between him and the light fury. Hiccup gave a small smile as he continued to stroke her scales.

       “I’m glad he’s okay, too.” He murmured to Luna who trilled in agreement.

The two looked over at Jack who laughed happily as Toothless butted his head against Jack’s back pushing the pale man over towards Hiccup. 

      “Pushy isn’t he?” Jack asked with amusement. 

      “Oh, you have no idea.” Hiccup replied with gaiety.

Hiccup was just glad to see the other up and about. That and to finally have gained enough trust from Jack and the others. Maybe with this they might be able to form a friendship between their tribes. After all, Hiccup was slowly starting to consider Jack a friend. He hoped Jack felt the same way. Hopefully it doesn’t take anymore near death experiences. 

Chapter Text

North sat at his desk with a lamp lit nearby looking over the map laid out before him. Some places were marked with a circle while others were crossed off with an X. He sighed heavily. He had to figure this out. It was imperative that he did. There was a soft knock at the door as Toothiana stepped in and placed a cup of hot cocoa on the desk. North took it gratefully as he took a long drink from it. He gazed at his wife lovingly as she looked at him with worry. He sighed. How could he put such a look on her beautiful face?

       “You need to rest Nick.” Toothiana said softly. “You're going to drive yourself straight into your grave at this rate.”

North opened his mouth to speak only to be cut off by his wife. 

      “You've been looking for years! We've come across no trace other than at Nightmare Island. We all agreed to let it be all those years ago and then you picked it back up five years ago. Why? Was it because Jack nearly died? We need to let well enough be.” Toothiana said softly with a sigh.

      “Ana that day five years ago we nearly lost our son to Pitch! I know after he disappeared eighteen years ago that we all agreed to stop looking and let him be since we couldn’t find a trace. But Ana, that was no coincidence. If our children, our tribe, our home… if they're in danger I have to know if he's truly returned. I just know he's up to something. I can feel it in my belly!” North explained. 

      “I know and I'm as worried as you are, but we can't drive ourselves mad by searching for a possibility that just is not there. Jack is safe and if Pitch really has returned we will deal with him.”

      “You think we can do it again without any loss? We lost Nightlight last time.” North said sadly.

      “Well, we do have the son of Berk’s chief here, do we not?” Toothiana said with a sly smirk.

North paused as he looked at his wife. “You’re not implying what I think you are, are you?”

Toothiana gave a small smile. “And what do you think I’m implying?”

      “An alliance with Berk?” North said with an inquisitive eyebrow raised.

      “Just think about it Nick. If anything dire happens and we need to spirit Jack away, what better place than one Pitch wouldn’t think to look? Jack would be able to stay safe.” Toothiana explained.

      “Except he’s never been outside of the North Isles and being exposed to Berk means being exposed to other people. That also means more chances of them finding out about his powers. We can’t risk that.” North dismissed the idea gently.

     “How long do we expect Jack to keep hiding? He hasn’t used his powers the entire time the riders have been here. He’s getting antsy. But if Pitch is back we need to prepare Jack. There’s a possibility the safest place for Jack will be away from the North Isles.” Toothiana said, trying to explain her reasoning to her husband.

North let out a long sigh. “As usual, the wife is right. If that’s the case then we’ll have to have Aster pick his training back up again.”

Toothiana laughed as she helped her husband out of the workshop. “Oh, he’s going to hate that.”

      “Ha! If anything he’ll think of it as a new way to challenge Bunny.” North said with mirth.

      “Knowing Jack he’ll turn it into a game.” Toothiana said with an amused smile.

      “Alright. Wife has me out of the workshop. Time to go to bed.” North said as they walked further down the hall to their room. 

On the way past they peeked into Jack’s room. He was sleeping soundly in his bed. His snowy white hair tousled from sleep. He was covered in a multitude of furs to keep him warm. His sister Mary was underneath the covers, her face buried in her brother’s chest. Luna lifted her head from where she slept on her bed when she heard the door crack open. When she saw it was just North and Toothiana she laid her head back down to go to sleep again. Toothiana gave a soft smile as she and North gazed upon their adopted son and daughter. She quietly backed out of the room, closing the door softly to ensure she didn’t wake Jack and Mary up.

      “Asleep, safe, and sound.” North said happily. “Now it’s time for us to do the same, no?”

Toothiana nodded. “Yes, after all someone is supposed to have an early start.”

North waved it off with a good natured smile. “Alright, alright. Wife is right as usual.”

Toothiana shook her head with a chuckle as they entered their room and prepared to go to sleep for the night. It was already late and there was no more need for talk or thought of Pitch Black or things that may or may not come to pass. As her and North slid into bed for the night she blew out the candle and hoped that North’s bad feeling would be wrong for once.

Jack sat as he watched the riders above flying on their dragons zipping past. They were running a drill since Hiccup didn’t want them to get complacent during their stay. One of Jack’s legs swung back and forth from where it dangled off the boulder he was sitting on while the other was bent close to his chest. He rested an arm over top as he looked over at Luna who was laying not too far from him disinterested in what was happening above them. Jack smiled as he turned his eyes skyward again watching as Snotlout was trying and failing to show off. Jack was surprised he hadn’t crashed into a mountain side or house yet. He watched as Hiccup wrapped it up before they all landed nearby. Hiccup climbed off of Toothless as he looked over at Jack who looked bored out of his mind.

       “Well, don’t look thrilled on our account.” Hiccup said, teasing the other male.

Jack let out a groan as he buried his face in his hands. 

      “That bad?” Astrid asked, coming to stand beside Hiccup.

      “Oh, don’t mind me. I’m just grounded literally until further notice.” Jack said sliding off of the boulder before walking over and flopping on top of Luna dramatically.

The light fury huffed in annoyance as she has been just as bored as her human companion.

      “You’re grounded?!” Snotlout asked, laughing at the younger man’s predicament.

Jack lifted his head and glared at Snotlout. “Oh, ha ha. Go ahead and laugh it up. You get struck by lightning once during a snowstorm and now all of a sudden the skies are dangerous and you can’t fly past the closest island. Come on!” 

Jack flopped his back on Luna again who let out a rumble of annoyance at their predicament. 

      “It’s bad enough we’re not allowed to leave the North Isles now I can’t even fly to the farther islands by myself.” Jack rolled his eyes as he crossed his arms.

      “You’re not allowed to leave?” Fishlegs asked, astonished.

Jack sat up looking at all of the riders' astounded expressions. Jack just looked back at the group with a shrug.

      “More or less the last time I was outside of the North Isles was during the incident on Nightmare Island and before that was when I lived in Burgess. So yeah, I haven't been that far out from the north.” Jack explained in an annoyed huff.

Astrid looked at Jack contrite before approaching. “Would you like to hear about the places we’ve been?”

Jack looked up at Astrid so fast she almost thought she heard his neck crack. “Is that even a question? Of course I want to hear about the places you’ve been!”

Astrid smiled in levity. “Alright.”

Tuffnut and Ruffnut joined them. 

      “Don’t forget us! We’ll tell you all the adventures we went on.” Tuffnut proudly proclaimed.

      “We’ll tell you everything there is to Berk, too.” Ruffnut added.

      “I can tell you about all the dragons we’ve encountered.” Fishlegs told the younger man.

      “Awesome!” Jack exclaimed with a grin.

      “Frost!” Aster called, approaching the group. “Guess what North just told me?”

      “Oh, Mani, he's smiling, that's not a good sign!” Jack said as he and Luna got up in case they would need to bolt.

     “Looks like I get to pick your training back up and I say we start now!” Aster said with a wide grin.

     “And with that I’m gone! See you guys later!” Jack said, giving a two finger salute before hopping off the nearby cliff with Luna catching him on her back.

      “Jack, do not make me have to chase your bloody skinny arse!” Aster yelled after the cackling young man.

      “Catch me if you can cottontail!” Jack yelled over his shoulder.

      “Oh, you don’t want to race a rabbit mate!” Aster hollered back racing after the light fury and her human companion. 

      “Come on Luna, let's try to lose him!” Jack said as they sped over the village where Jack hopped off of the light fury and onto a roof.

He easily flipped off the roof between two houses. He smiled to himself as he turned only to come face to face with Aster.

      “Woah!” Jack exclaimed, jumping back only to be grabbed by his cloak before he could escape.

      “Oh no you don’t! Not on your nelly are you escaping!” Aster said, wrestling the young man away and towards the forest behind the village. 

      “What do I even need more training for?!” Jack asked with a resigned sigh.

      “Wouldn’t you like to know.” Aster said amused. 

      “Yes, I would, which is exactly why I’m asking!” Jack said, getting annoyed.

Aster huffed in exasperation at the young man. He dropped his grip on the pale teen’s cloak causing Jack to stumble before catching his footing again. 

      “Now then shoes off frostbite.” Aster said, pulling out his boomerangs.

Jack rolled his eyes as he shucked off his boots. When his bare feet hit the ground ice formed and arced from where his feet touched. The pale young man stepped closer holding up his staff.

     “Are you sure it’s okay for us to be doing this with oh I don’t know the people from Berk here?” Jack snarked to the other.

      “Aye! You know as well as I do that that lot doesn’t come this way and are wrapped up with things around the village. Besides, you need to let some of that magic out. You’ve been getting antsy not using it.” Aster said, tapping Jack’s side with a boomerang.

     “Hey!” Jack protested as he stepped away.

      “Now get into position.” Aster said, crouching down slightly while facing Jack.

Jack rolled his eyes in exasperation as he did as instructed. Aster and he faced each other across from the clearing as Jack held his staff in front of himself. Aster moved first dashing across the clearing. Jack stomped his foot on the ground causing ice to quickly climb across the ground making Aster slide as he quickly regained his footing. Jack grinned back as Aster looked at him unimpressed before rushing him. Jack ducked and danced out of Aster’s reach until Aster threw one of his boomerangs, making Jack duck down to avoid being hit. He then sweeped his staff blasting ice at Aster who jumped flipping in the air before landing a few feet from Jack. 

      “Time to get serious.” Aster said with a smirk. “Ya ready frostbite?”

Jack grinned as he kicked his staff up and held it with the head of his staff pointed at the taller man. “I was born ready.”

      “Alright. You know the rules. On the count of three we begin. Ready? One..”

      “Two.” Jack said after Aster.

      “Three.”

Aster was quick on his feet rushing forward and swinging one of the boomerangs as the other swung back from being thrown earlier.. Jack slid underneath him between his legs as Aster caught the boomerang in the air. He grazed his staff across the floor causing ice to frost over the floor. Aster nearly lost his footing, but caught himself before he fell. Jack hopped on his feet swinging his staff and letting out a blast of ice from his staff escape. Aster quickly tapped his foot against the ground twice. A tunnel opened below him as he fell through. It closed leaving a flower behind where the ice hit, freezing it where it was. Jack looked around with his staff at the ready. He carefully walks with his feet barely skimming the ground. 

      “Whoa!” Jack let out a shout when a tunnel opened up beneath his feet. 

He was caught by the edge of his cloak before being flung from the tunnel rolling across the ground. He looked up when he heard chuckling.

      “Really Jack? You still fall for that trick?” Aster questioned amused.

Jack huffed as he got to his feet. Jack made his move first as he rushed Aster placing strike after strike pushing the taller man back. After evading the next one tripping Jack when he hooked a boomerang around one of his ankles. Jack jumped back on his feet using his staff to make blast after blast at the tanned man. Aster quickly evaded and threw his boomerangs at the boy. Jack managed to evade one while the other knocked his staff out of his hands causing it to skip across the patches of ice to the other side of the clearing. Jack looked between Aster and his staff then back to Aster again. He rushed to get to his staff. Aster tackled him and they rolled around the ground. Jack quickly got from underneath the taller male and tried to make his way to his staff. Aster grabbed Jack's ankle and pulled him back. The pale teen used his legs to wrap around Aster’s midsection. Using the force of the movement Jack pinned the larger man on the ground as he grabbed one of the man's boomerangs and placed it to Aster’s throat at the same time Aster placed one at Jack’s throat. The two were panting from the exertion before both dropped the boomerangs and laughed. Jack got off of Aster helping him to his feet.

      “Well, I’ll be. That was the first time training ended in a draw.” Aster said with a chuckle ruffling Jack’s hair. 

Jack laughed as he swatted Aster’s hand away. “I really don’t think I need the extra training.”

      “That Jack is where I have to disagree.” The older man said as the two made to leave the clearing. “But I will say you have improved quite a bit.”

     “Careful Bunny. That actually sounded like a compliment.” Jack teased as he picked up his staff on their way out of the clearing.

      “Oh, rack off ya bloody show pony!” Aster said with slight vexation.

Jack cackled as he quickly sped walked away. 

Astrid sat next to Hiccup as he sat observing Toothless and Luna. The two dragons were circling each other. Toothless would try to get close only to receive an annoyed huff from the light fury. At least she wasn’t consistently hissing at him anymore. Hiccup watched as the night fury tried his best to get close to the light fury once she decided to lay down for a quick rest only to be batted away with a tail. Hiccup chuckled at the night fury’s dismayed expression.

      “Maybe next time bud.” Hiccup said as the night fury laid his head in Hiccup’s lap before laying down before his human companion.

Hiccup chuckled as he stoked the scales on Toothless’s ear plates. Astrid gave a soft smile as she watched them before the smile fell from her face. She turned a little more towards Hiccup and cleared her throat to get his attention.

      “Everything okay?” Hiccup asked the blonde as he gazed at her.

      “I was just thinking about what we’ll do when we go back to Berk.” Astrid told the other scooting a tad closer to the auburn haired man.

Hiccup nodded in thought. “Well, I have some ideas.”

     “Like what?” Astrid questioned curiously. 

      “Well, I’d like to try to open up a friendship between our tribes. This is the first dragon friendly tribe we’ve come across. That and well for other obvious reasons.” Hiccup said, glancing over at the two furies as Luna had risen onto her legs again while Toothless trotted about happily.

Astrid nodded in understanding. She knew how much finding Luna meant to both Hiccup and Toothless. 

      “Are you sure she’s the only reason?” Astrid teased.

      “Alright. You got me.” Hiccup relented with a teasing smirk of his own. “It’s just we’re learning things here we never even knew about before. Imagine all the things left that we could learn from these people. Well, and it is nice that Jack is warming up to us. I don’t know it’s just it almost feels like—”

      “Almost like he’s one of us?” The blonde asked, finishing the thought.

      “Yeah, I mean it’s nice to meet someone that gets it. Toothless and I have searched high and low for other night furies and haven’t found one. I’m sure meeting Toothless means just as much to them as meeting Luna does to us.” Hiccup explained.

That and Jack was probably one of the few to be able to match Hiccup stride for stride not in just wit, but in other areas too. Don’t get him wrong, the others could come up with their own snarky remarks and had good ideas. But Jack observed and knew when to insert himself and when to pull back. Plus his sass measured up to Hiccup’s snark. That and his stunts were about as if not more crazy than Hiccup’s. It was nice to have a friend that could match him in pace and stride. 

      “Well, I’m sure we can figure out something to benefit both their tribe and ours. You can be persuasive when you want to be as you’ve said.” Astrid said with a small smile.

Hiccup nodded. “I’m sure I’ll think of something.”

      “In the meantime at least we can enjoy some time together. Since this is the first time we’ve gotten to ourselves.” Astrid said as she placed a hand on Hiccup’s arm.

Hiccup nodded. “I suppose things have been a bit crazy since we got here.”

      “A bit? We’ve barely have had a moment of peace since we got here.” Astrid said with exasperation. 

      “Yeah, but it was understandable that they didn’t trust us right away. I mean we did kind of break through their barrier without so much as a howdy do. If it was reversed Berk wouldn’t have been as lenient about it.” Hiccup said with conviction.

Astrid let out a loud exhale. “I know. It’s just…frustrating. We’ve been here for a week and they just started to trust us and only because we saved Jack.”

Hiccup patted Astrid’s shoulder in assurance. “Well, little steps. Gotta take what we can get. Besides, Jack is warming up a little faster to us now at least, right?”

      “I guess.” Astrid said, turning away.

Her gaze caught on Toothless and Luna. The light fury was sitting and watching Toothless bound about. It almost looked like he was trying to impress her with a dance and failing as Luna just looked confused. Hiccup planted the palm of his hand to his face as he shook his head in disappointment at the night fury.

      “Oh, come on bud! You can do better than that.” Hiccup said with amusement as the night fury looked at his rider in offense.

Astrid gave a minuscule smile at the dragon and rider. Maybe Hiccup was right. They need to take it slow. But who could blame her for being impatient? Vikings weren’t known for patience being a strong point. That and perhaps she was feeling rather restless. As riveting as finding out about magic and magic users was, she felt like her and Hiccup were drifting apart slowly. They haven’t had a moment of peace since they made it to the Santoff Claussen tribe and barely got to spend time alone together. Perhaps she was just thinking too hard about it. However, she was unsure how to bring this topic up for discussion with Hiccup. For now she just wanted to enjoy her time with Hiccup even if that meant watching Toothless try to romance the light fury. 

Fishlegs sat in the library reading again. This time he had Jack accompanying him. While Fishlegs sat at a table with the book open Jack sat on top of the table with his legs crossed as he leaned over looking over the book Fishlegs was stewing over. Fishlegs had run into Jack earlier and pulled him aside to ask questions about things he’s read in some of the books which later devolved into them getting into a heated discussion about dragons. Jack was happy to regale Fishlegs with some of his stories with dragons and busting dragon trapper heads with Aster and on occasion North, Toothiana, and Sandy would join them. Which led them circling back about the books Fishlegs read which got them discussing Mani which is why the two are both leaned over a book in a discussion on the stories of Mani from the Santoff Claussen tribe.

      “So you’re saying Mani had a different name before he became Mani?” Fishlegs asked intrigued.

      “According to our tribe, yeah. Mani was more a title than an actual name. In our beliefs and histories Mani was called Tsar Lunar Lunanoff and each one that came before held that name. The last one we have recorded to date is Tsar Lunar Lunanoff the tenth. He’s the one we call man in moon. Though the Tsar part is also just a title, too.” Jack explained flipping to the pages of the book to that portion he just explained.

Fishlegs rubbed his chin in thought. “So you said he’s the one believed to have chosen the guardians?”

Jack shrugged. “According to North. He seems to be one of the only ones other than one of our village elders that can actually talk to him.”

      “He talks to Mani?!” Fishlegs asked, fascinated. “How does that work?”

Jack laughed as he shrugged again. “You’d have to ask him.”

Fishlegs nodded understanding. “Okay. So I got that. Moving on this Nightlight was a guardian who was Mani’s companion and protector. It says he sacrificed himself during the battle against the Nightmare King. But what was Nightlight the guardian of?”

      “You know the only ones that may know that are the original four: North, Toothiana, Aster, and Sandy. But none of them really talk about it. Nightlight was a friend so his loss ended up cutting all of them pretty deep. I try not to bring it up. It tends to make them pretty sad. Sorry I’m not much help there.” Jack explained regretfully he couldn’t be more helpful.

Fishlegs shook his head. “You’ve been plenty of help!”

Jack waved him off bashfully trying to will the frost to not frost up his cheeks as he rubbed at his face to try to make sure he didn’t accidentally frost up in front of Fishlegs. Aster would kill him since he wouldn’t be able to explain his way out of that one.

      “Anyone could have told you any of that.” Jack said with a nonchalant shrug.

      “Out of curiosity, who's the oldest of the guardians?” Fishlegs asked curiously.

      “In general or out of the core guardians? Either way, the answer is still the same.” Jack answered. “I thought you would have read that already.”

      “I haven’t gotten that far yet.” The blonde admitted embarrassed.

Jack chuckled with a shake of his head. “It’s Sandy.”

      “Really?!” Fishlegs questioned astonished. “How old is he?”

Jack grinned in amusement. “That is something even I don’t ask and even when someone does ask he never gives a clear answer. Sometimes I wonder if he even knows how old he is.”

      “Wow. He can’t be older than Gothi.” Fishlegs said thoughtfully.

      “Gothi? Is she your village elder?” Jack asked in interest.

      “Yeah, no one is really sure how old she is. But there’s speculation she’s older than one hundred.” Fishlegs explained.

Jack nodded and grinned good natured. Fishlegs paused and looked at Jack.

      “You’re not about to tell me he’s that old when he doesn’t even look to be in his forties are you?” Fishlegs asked a bit nervous at the answer.

      “Nope.” Jack said with another unconcerned shrug.

Honestly Jack wasn’t sure how old Sandy was but he knew he was definitely older than that. But well don’t wanna drop life changing revelations in quick succession. To outsiders hearing some of the ages in the tribe is quite mind boggling and hard to wrap your head around. Jack remembered even he had a hard time wrapping his head around it. Just part of being chosen by Mani unfortunately. Most see it as a blessing, but Jack himself isn’t sure how he typically feels about it. But North said he may not have to worry about that since he’s a special case. Jack came out of his thoughts when he heard Fishlegs close the book. 

      “Thanks again Jack. It’s interesting learning about your tribe. It’s so vastly different from ours.” Fishlegs said with a small smile directed at the smaller man.

      “Yeah, no problem. Can I ask something?” 

Fishlegs nodded, motioning for the other to go ahead.

      “So I know you guys said your tribe used to fight and kill dragons. But what led up to that changing so drastically. I heard about the Red Death, but what happened in between your tribe killing the dragons and the battle with the Red Death that caused you guys to start living with the dragon?” Jack asked with curiosity.

Fishlegs looked surprised at the question. “Well, that was all Hiccup and Toothless. Hiccup shot down Toothless.”

      “And that’s why he has a prosthetic tailfin?”

Fishlegs nodded. “Yeah, but from how Hiccup told the story obviously instead of killing Toothless he ended up befriending him instead. He kept Toothless hidden in the beginning.”

      “And I take it when Toothless was revealed the reaction was less than stellar?”

      “Yeah… Long story short Stoick took Toothless to lead him to the nest and the Red Death and Hiccup taught us how to ride dragons and gain their trust. As you know Hiccup and Toothless defeated the Red Death, Toothless saved Hiccup, and well here we are now with Berk living alongside dragons.”

Jack nodded in understanding. “Thanks for telling me Fishlegs.”

      “If you want the full story you’ll have to ask Hiccup. I’m sure he wouldn’t mind telling you.” Fishlegs informed the other man.

Jack nodded as he slid off the table and onto his feet. “I’ll have to ask him sometime then. I’ll see you later. I have a sister to go get.”

Jack picked up his staff slinging it across his shoulders as he made for the door.

Fishlegs nodded in thanks. “See you later Jack.”

With that Jack left the library and exited the building only to have snow fall on him when he left the building. 

      “Woah!” Jack exclaimed, brushing the snow off of himself and looked up when he heard a draconian laugh. “Really Luna? What? I leave you alone for a couple hours and you decide to dump snow on me? The betrayal!”

The light fury rolled her eyes at her rider’s dramatic display before hopping down from the roof to join him. 

Jack grinned at the dragon. “Come on, let’s go get Mary.”

Luna trotted alongside her companion as they made their way further into the village. The village children ran past calling their greetings to Jack who smiled and waved back to them. Luna huffed at him as he looked over at the light fury and followed along the path to the chief’s house. Just as Jack was about to enter the building to see if his sister was inside he was stopped by a voice calling out to him. 

      “Jack!” 

Jack’s head whipped around to see Mary standing there with North. Hiccup was trailing up behind them with Astrid.

      “The fishermen and merchants are back!” Mary exclaimed excitedly. “You know what that means!”

Jack let out a pure unadulterated joyful smile split his face upon hearing those words as he spun around and took off running towards their docks.

      “Why didn’t you say so sooner? Come on, let's go!” Jack yelled out excitedly as he hopped on Luna who took to the air.

As Luna took off to the air Jack caught his sister under her arms and helped her on Luna’s back so she was seated behind them. Luna shot through the village leaving North who let out a big bellied laugh as he followed behind them with Hiccup and Astrid as Aster met up and joined them. When they got to the docks it was bustling with ships either currently docking or unloading. People were milling about either lending a hand or getting out of the way. The sail of the ships were being drawn up as they were docking at the pier. Mary hurriedly climbed off of Luna with the help of her brother as her eyes darted around scanning the crowd. Jack slid off on the light fury and looked up at the ships. Just as he was about to turn around he heard someone calling out to him.

      “Jack!”

A voice cried out just as two bodies slammed into him hard enough to topple him over with the two smaller bodies still against him. North along with Aster and the lot of the dragon riders arrived just in time to see Jack get tackled by two young children. Hiccup winced as he watched Jack crash to the ground.

      “Woah!” Jack cried out in surprise when the two children finally backed off he smiled when he got a look at who it was. “Jamie! Sophie!”

The two children in question with one being a brunette boy with short cropped brown locks of hair and brown eyes. He had peach toned skin. He wore a green tunic underneath a brown fur lined vest with brown pants and matching boots. The little girl was blonde with her golden locks falling into one of her green eyes. She, like the boy, had peach toned skin. She wore a blue top underneath a white fur lined vest and a blue cloak with brown pants and boots to match. The boy, Jamie grinned at the white haired teen.

      “We’re back to visit.” Jamie announced happily as he hugged Jack and Sophie joining the hug with Mary dogpiling onto the trio.

Jack laughed wholeheartedly. “I can’t believe you both are here.”

Jamie and Sophie grinned as they got off of Jack helping Mary up as they all dusted snow off of themselves. 

      “Hello, Jack! Hello, Mary!”

Jacked looked up to see a woman with chestnut brown hair worn in a bun and hazel eyes waving to Jack from the closest ship. Jack smiled, waving back to her with his sister.

      “Hello, Mrs. Bennett! It’s good to see you again!” Jack called back to her.

      “Hi, Mrs. Bennett!” Mary cheered happily.

      “So good to see you and Mary are doing well!” Mrs. Bennett called back before picking up a box. “Jamie, make sure you and Sophie get back before dark.”

      “Yes, mom!” Jamie affirmed to his mother he heard as Mrs. Bennett went about what she was doing.

North approached as Sophie came toddling over in excitement with a giggle. North laughed as he lifted the small tyke up causing Sophie to burst into another fit of giggles. 

      “Well, if it isn’t the little ankle biter.” Aster said with a small smile.

Jamie looked over when he saw North and the others and noticed the dragon riders. He looked back to Jack with a curious tilt to his head.

      “Jack, who are those people?” Jamie asked with curiosity shining in his eyes.

Jack ruffled Jamie’s hair. “Come on, I’ll introduce you.”

Hiccup watched as Jamie followed alongside Jack as the two of them approached the small group the dragon riders made. Jack stopped before them pushing Jamie forward gently. 

      “Jamie, these are the dragon riders from Berk. Dragon riders this is Jamie Bennett and that over there is his little sister, Sophie. They’re kids Mary and I knew from when we lived in Burgess.” Jack explained while giving a brief, but vague introduction.

      “What kind of introduction was that? No names given. Are we not good enough for you to remember our names now?” Hiccup said sassing the snow haired man who was snickering at Hiccup’s sass. “I’m Hiccup as Jack stated we’re from Berk.”

Jamie smiled at Hiccup nodding with a grin. “Nice to meet you.”

      “Introduction? You called that one? That was just Jack being lazy.” Snotlout complained. “I’m Snotlout by the way. The greatest viking, obviously.”

      “Uh…” Jamie trailed off, not sure how to respond.

      “It’s okay to ignore him.” Jack whispered loudly. “I do.”

      “Hey! I heard that!” Snotlout exclaimed in offense.

      “That was the point.” Jack pointed out, causing the others to laugh.

      “Well, I’m Astrid. It’s nice to meet you Jamie.”

      “Likewise.” Jamie said returning Astrid’s greeting.

      “I’m Ruffnut and this muttonhead is my brother Tuffnut.”

      “How dare you! If I’m a muttonhead what does that make you since we’re related?!” Tuffnut exclaimed in fake offense before the twins devolved into bickering.

       “I’m Fishlegs. It's very nice to meet you Jamie.”

      “So Jamie, what brings you all the way out here?” Hiccup inquired. 

        “Oh! My mom is a merchant. Sophie and I travel with her. She had some wares to give to North.” Jamie explained as Sophie came sprinting over.

      “Jack! Snow sparkles!” Sophie exclaimed with glee.

      “A little later Sophie.” Jack said with a ruffle to her head as she hugged his legs. 

      “Come on, Jack. Let’s get away from the pier while it’s busy.” Mary said, picking up Sophie who giggled at being lifted.

Jack nodded in agreement as the group moved away from the pier and back into the village. The riders trailed behind the Frost and Bennett siblings as Jamie and Jack chatted away at each other. Jack had his staff balanced on his shoulders as he spoke with the older Bennett sibling. Mary placed Sophie down who toddles after the twins who happily chased the little tyke causing Sophie to giggle with glee. 

      “We shall name her our disciple.” Tuffnut declared.

      “She shall be an honorary Thorston.” Ruffnut agreed.

Jack laughed as he turned to Jamie. “I think Sophie just got adopted.”

      “It looks that way.” Jamie said with amusement as he turned back to Jack. “Oh! That reminds me.”

Jamie riffled through his pockets until he pulled out a small wooden object. He handed it over to Jack who held it up. It was a wooden carved snowflake with six points for the arms of the snowflake. It was a little lopsided and uneven. It was painted a light blue and some powder that made it sparkle when the light hit it. Jack looked at Jamie with a soft tender eyes.

       “Pippa and the rest of the guys at home helped make it. We wanted to make you something to remind you that you still have us at Burgess. They also all told me to tell you that they miss you and that you need to visit soon.” Jamie explained shifting from foot to foot nervously.

Jack gave a soft smile. “Thanks, Jamie. I love it. You’ll have to thank them for me and tell them I’ll come by soon for a visit.”

Jamie gave a toothy grin as he hugged Jack. “I’m glad you like it.”

      “So hold on time out.” Snotlout butted in as Jamie and Jack pulled away from the hug. “You’re not from here?”

       “Technically speaking, no. We still consider Burgess a part of the North Isles, but it’s like a branch part since it’s a half a day’s travel by boat and a few hours or so by dragon. Mary and I were born in Burgess, but after our mother passed away and some other  things happened, North took us in. So technically speaking we’re from Burgess.” Jack explained with a shrug.

      “And you just happened to have left that out?” Snotlout asked with a slight scowl.

Jack shrugged. “Well, you never asked.”

Jamie covered his mouth to stop from laughing. That was typical Jack not to be forthcoming with certain types of information pertaining to himself until questioned about it. Even then sometimes he gave the runaround or didn’t give a straight answer.

Tuffnut gasped dramatically. “For shame! You hid something about yourself. How can we trust you now? He who hides things of himself?!”

Jack snickered at Tuffnut’s dramatic display as Ruffnut joined her brother.

      “How do we know anything he’s said about himself is true now? A friend that hides things and doesn’t tell his friends things? Shameful!” Ruffnut threw her hands up dramatically, acting as if she was upset.

      “Friends?” Jack questioned.

      “Duh! You’re our friend.” Ruffnut said as if stating the obvious.

      “So you can’t get rid of us.” Tuffnut agreed.

      “Well, I never thought…” Jack trailed off.

Jamie looked between the two groups and gave Jack a little shove towards the riders. Jack stumbled before catching his footing before looking back at Jamie in mock offense.

      “What was that for?” Jack questioned.

       “Catch up with your friends on the walk to the forest Jack. It’s been a while since Sophie and I have been here and we wanna see if anything has changed.” Jamie said, pointing in the direction where the forest on the other side of the village was. 

Jack nodded. “Okay, okay. We can all go if you want.”

Hiccup nodded. “I wouldn’t mind tagging along.”

      “I’ll come too. I think we all could use some time out of the village.” Astrid said with thought.

     “Hopefully without any incidents.” Fishlegs said with a nod.

      “And you just jinxed us. Wait to go fish face.” Snotlout said with a wave of his hand.

     “What?! No! I didn’t– at least I didn’t mean to!” Fishlegs sputtered, getting increasingly flustered.

     “Just ignore him, Fishlegs. We’ll be fine!” Jack said as they all started traversing towards the woods to the east of the village.

     “That’s two jinxes now!” Tuffnut said with a laugh. “What does that make us now?”

      “Double screwed.” Ruffnut stated with a grin.

Jack shook his head, entertained. Those twins could be absolutely feral sometimes. The pale teen looked down when he felt a small tug at his sleeve as Jamie took a hold of it to lead them to the forest in question. 

      “Come on, you guys before you get left behind.” Jack called over his shoulder.

      “We’re coming!” Mary called back as she picked Sophie on her way past leading the riders after her brother and Jamie.

Astrid looked down at Mary carrying Sophie in her arms. “So where exactly are we going?”

      “The forest on the eastern part of the village then up the mountain.” Mary answered as her boots crunched in the snow with every step she took. 

      “So other than your mom dying how did you guys end up being what? Adopted by the village chief?” Snotlout asked as his eyes went skyward out of boredom.

      “Snotlout!” Astrid exclaimed reprimandingly.

      “What?!” Snotlout questioned not understanding what he did that was wrong.

      “It is a valid question.” Ruffnut said offhandedly.

      “How could we not be curious?” Tuffnut asked, backing up Ruffnut’s words.

      “Point taken.” Astrid said.

      “Well, it’s a long story. I can’t really say what happened, but the gist of it is mom died and something happened to Jack. Our village elder knew about the guardians so she contacted North, who then came and took Jack and I in and we’ve been here ever since.” Mary explained in a quick summary.

      “So there’s more?” Fishlegs inquired.

       “Yes, but like I said I can’t tell you.” Mary affirmed.

They turned their gazes forward hearing giggling when they stepped foot into the forest. Jack was hanging upside down on a tree branch high above swinging back and forth without a care in the world. Jamie grinned up at the older male. The snow haired man swung down landing on his feet before kicking his staff up into one of his empty hands. 

Hiccup shook his head. “Show off.”

Jack looked up and gave a little wave of his fingers. “Come on!”

They trudged on further as Jack regaled Jamie and Sophie about their latest adventure when they ended up busting the dragon trappers and saving the dragons. Jamie marveled at hearing about their adventures and Sophie giggled clapping her hands in childish joy.

      “Did Luna really knock one of them overboard the ship?” Jamie asked, bouncing with each step.

       “Sure did.” Jack said following behind Jamie.

       “One day you gotta take me.” Jamie said with a grin.

      “When you’re older. Your mom would kill me if I took you and something happened.” Jack said, shivering at the thought of an angry mother. 

      “You scared?” Snotlout questioned laughing at the mere idea.

       “Look Mrs. Bennett may be sweet, but get her angry and her temper is as bad as a starving dragon being denied food in their own territory. It does not bode well for the person on the receiving end.” Jack said defending on why he’s nervous at the mere idea of Mrs. Bennett getting angry with him.

The laughing stopped at Jack’s description. Snotlout looked at Jack incredulously.

      “You can’t be serious.”

      “Oh, I’m perfectly serious.” Jack said solemnly.

      “Woah!” Jamie exclaimed.

Jack whipped his head around to see what Jamie was looking at to see a vertical beam of yellow light stretching up skyward into the slowly darkening sky. Jack gave a crooked grin knowing Jamie didn’t get to see this too often. Thankfully it was still light out with the sun slowly setting in the distance, but the sky was just dark enough for the light pillar to be seen. Jamie darted ahead of the group excitedly wanting to see if he could get a better look.

      “Don’t go too far Jamie!” Mary called after the other boy as she handed Sophie to Fishlegs and darted after the brunette boy.

Fishlegs fumbled with the little girl anxiously as she giggled at the blonde man’s nervousness. 

      “It’s a light pillar! They’re usually rare anywhere else!” 

Jack heard Jamie’s voice somewhere from ahead as Jamie was past the trees ahead of them blocking Jack’s view of the younger boy. 

      “Pretty light!” Sophie said, clapping as she giggled.

Hiccup stared up at the sky in wonder as he gazed at the light pillar. The dragon riders were all doing the same as they haven’t had the chance to witness something like this. Even if they had, they had been too busy to notice in the past. It was amazing to see in person. 

      “Wow!” Hiccup breathed as he continued to marvel at the sight.

      “Light pillars. I’ve heard about these before.” Fishlegs said in amazement. “They are more likely to occur when snow is on the ground during calm nights. They’re caused from ice crystals suspended in the air reflecting off of the light.”

      “That’s right.” Jack said with an impressed hum as he gazed up at the sky. “These are pretty common here though.”

      “That’s amazing.” Astrid said with a soft exhale of her breath. 

It was beautiful for all to witness the sight. It was peaceful. But like all things peaceful it came to an end too soon. As they were trudging to find both Jamie and Mary the silence was broken by a terrified scream of Jack’s sister. 

      “Jack! Help!”

Jack took off running as fast as he could. The dragon riders hot on his trail ready to help should they need to. 

      “Jack!”

This time it was Jamie who yelled frightened. Jack ducked under low hanging branches as he weaved around trees. He hurried trying to run faster. When he finally broke the tree line he was in a small field. Jack’s eyes darted around until it came to a stop on Mary’s figure. She was running fast towards her brother. The dragon riders all finally caught up to Jack just as Mary called to her brother.

      “Jack! There’s a bear!” Mary cried scared.

Further away Jack’s eyes landed on Jamie who was running as fast as his legs would carry him from a polar bear.

      “Jamie!” Jack shouted in alarm as he ran towards the younger boy who was running for his life.

      “Jack! Wait!” Hiccup called after the younger man only to have his words fall on deaf ears.

The other riders each let out their own shouts of surprise. Astrid ran after Jack, her hand going towards her axe prepared to fight the bear. She threw her axe at the bear. Her axe arched through the air as it whizzed past Jack’s head and past Jamie’s shoulder embedding itself into the polar bear’s shoulder. The bear roared in pain followed by a growl of anger as its pause was momentary. It resumed its change of Jamie this time angry. Astrid cursed. Since she had to be careful not to hit Jack or Jamie she had to go with the option that would slow it down, but make it mad. Jack twirled his staff as he ran forward. Adrenaline pumping threw his veins as he saw the distance between Jamie and the bear keep narrowing getting smaller and smaller. He knew what he had to do. He just hoped Aster understood why he did this. Jamie tripped over a root of overgrowth he didn’t see as his foot caught on it making him fall forward. He turned to see the bear now gaining on him. He closed his eyes in fright.

      “Jack!” Jamie shouted, petrified.

Just as the polar bear was about to reach the brunette boy Jack let out a shout as he swung his staff. The riders covered their eyes as bright light momentarily blinded their eyes. Ice shot from Jack’s staff and hit the bear directly encasing it in ice. 

      “Jamie!” Jack called as he slid to his knees before the younger boy.

Jamie scrambled up and embraced the pale teen in relief. What the hell was a polar bear doing all the way out here? They usually didn’t come this close to the village. Jack pulled back checking over Jamie making sure he was okay when he turned his head when he heard snow crunch under a boot. His gaze landed on the dragon riders who were all staring at Jack in confoundment. After Hiccup had been momentarily blinded by the bright light earlier he had removed his hands he used to shield his eyes to find the polar bear encased in ice. It was not hard to figure out how. Jack froze going rigid.

      “Jack…” Hiccup began amazed at what he just witnessed. “Did you just…?”

      “Did you just use magic?” Snotlout demanded. 

Jack stood quickly scrambling away from the group.

      “Jack?” Jamie called to the other confused.

      “I need to go.” Jack said, backing away slowly.

      “No, you need to explain.” Astrid said with a frown marring her features.

Jack’s eyes darted around the field trying to figure out how to get himself out of this. There was no way around this. How did he get out of this one? 

      “It’s okay Jack.” Hiccup said, trying to calm and diffuse the situation.

      “Okay?! Hiccup he just shot ice from thin air!” Snotlout shouted with a frown. “I think we deserve an explanation."

Before they could devolve into any more arguing Luna landed in the field right in front of Jack. She turned her head and hissed at the riders as she looked at Jack and huffed at him indicating for him to climb on so they could go. Jack quickly scrambled onto the light fury as she leapt into the air and shot up disappearing into the sky leaving the rest behind. Toothless came bounding in not too soon after. 

      “That went well.” Mary said sarcastically.

      “This is a disaster.” Hiccup said ruffling his hair in stress. “Come on everyone back to the village. That’s enough excitement for one day. And are you okay Jamie?”

Jamie nodded. “Yeah, I’m okay. A little shaken, but okay. I’m more worried about Jack.”

      “You and me both.” Hiccup said his eyes going skyward as he and the rest of the present group turned and started heading towards the village.

Toothless trotted next to his rider giving a sad warble. Hiccup patted Toothless’s head agreeing with the sentiment. Meanwhile Jack on the back of Luna was fretting anxiously. He was always told never to let others see him perform magic because of past experiences he’s had when people do. He just hoped Aster didn’t give him too hard of a time for having to do it to save Jamie. But North would know what to do. He always did. 

Aster paced back and forth as the other guardians watched him with every step. His brows furrowed and a displeased frown marring his face. North was leaning against a wall with Toothiana not too far from him. Sandy was not far from the windows. In the alcove of the window Jack sat. The hood of his cloak was up covering his face obscuring it from view. He sat with his lefts folded against his chest. His staff leaned against a wall beside him. All was quiet in North’s workshop except for the clunking sound of each of Aster’s footfalls. Jack had returned in a storm of panic as his words had ended up jumbled together as he tried to tell North what happened. It was the first time in years North had seen Jack that panic induced. Once he had managed to calm Jack down enough to understand his words he called the other guardians. The others Jack had ventured out with would be back to the village soon no doubt and they had needed to figure out what to do now that Jack had revealed his powers. North had assured the young man it was okay and that he did good since he saved Jamie. North like Aster had found it odd a polar bear ventured this close to the village. Did their hunting and migrating patterns change? North looked over at his pacing friend. Aster would pace a hole in his workshop floor if he kept this up.

      “Perhaps we can speak to them?” North suggested.

Aster paused in his pacing before whirling around to face North. “And tell them what?! Oh, sorry we didn’t tell you Jack had ice powers he’s been kidnapped for them in the past?” 

Aster scowled even more at the other man. 

      “Aster!” Toothiana exclaimed aghast at the other man’s reaction

      “What? You’re not telling me you seriously trust them to not do anything now that they know. Did you all forget the last time someone found out about Jack’s powers?! He was kidnapped and missing for nearly a half a week until we finally tracked him down. I’m not going to let that happen again.” Aster said adamantly.

North let out a sigh as he turned to look over at their youngest who tightened his arms around his legs trying to make himself even smaller than he was. North worried Jack would surely disappear on them all if they didn’t take care of this. Jack, always caring with a big heart and powers sometimes too big for even his shoulders to carry. Jack who cares for his sister and other children. The youngest of them always tried to make things fun and find the best in things. Jack who was silent and still right now which was not good. Jack was never silent, always filling the halls with his laughter and never remaining still as he zipped about the village and the halls finding the next adventure he could in the north. 

North let out a quiet sigh. “We cannot let fear cloud our judgement.”

Toothiana’s wing fluttered anxiously as she walked forward and placed a hand on Aster’s shoulder. “North is right Aster. We’re all worried, but they saved Jack before even if it was before they knew about his powers. We have to take that into consideration before we pass judgement on them. Had they wanted to hurt or take Jack they’ve had plenty of opportunities to do so.”

Aster deflated slowly. “I know. It’s just…” 

Sandy’s sand appeared above the smaller man’s head as he communicated his thoughts. 

      “Sandy is right. We can’t keep thinking about what if scenarios. We must focus on the now. I say we speak with them and decide if their intentions are good. Riders of Berk are good people, surely this won’t change much, no?” North said, optimistically. “Besides as the person involved, why don’t we include Jack in this?”

Jack’s head shot over to the others as his eyes widened in surprise. North walked over to where the young man sat as he crouched down in front of their youngest so he was eye level with the other.

      “Well, Jack, what do you think? Want us to send them away or would you like to give them a chance?” North asked the nervous teen.

The white haired teen looked to the others before letting out a soft exhale. “I want to give them a chance. Hiccup and the other riders aren’t bad people and I trust them. But I’m scared North… I-I…” 

North placed a comforting hand on the younger man’s shoulder. “I know Jack, but not to worry we will take care of this as we always do. Remember my promise to you?”

Jack nodded as he slowly relaxed. “That so long as you breathe I would always have a safe place to stay.”

North nodded with a soft smile. “That’s right so don’t fear the outcome. Put your faith in us and we will handle this Jack.”

Jack nodded as he relaxed even further as the hunch in his shoulders disappeared under North’s comforting words. North then turned back to the others who all had similar expressions of looking at Jack with tender affection. Jack didn’t always show or let himself be vulnerable. Jack often hid much of himself. So when they did see what was purely Jack under his masks they cradled and sheltered it with tenderness. 

      “Now then shall we?” North questioned.

Aster and North locked eyes as Aster nodded as he turned away and headed to get the dragon riders. Aster wasn’t one that wanted to leave Jack behind like that, but North was the best one to comfort the young man at the moment. It didn’t take long to find the dragon riders. He found them with the Bennett siblings and Mary as Jamie fretted about Jack. Mary was wringing her hands, keeping her head down. No doubt anxious to check on Jack, but probably had to dodge some explanations too. Aster approached the group and Jamie looked over when Aster was close enough to hear them.

      “Aster!” Jamie called to the older man as the group turned to him. “Is Jack…?”

      “Jack is fine. A little…unsettled, but he’s okay. I’m glad you’re alright kid. Jack told us what happened.” Aster said to the young boy.

Jamie inclined his head. “Yeah, none of us can figure out why a polar bear was this far south of where they usually migrate to.”

Aster nodded. “Well, I have to borrow the dragon riders here. You get back to your ma with the little ankle butter, yeah?”

Jamie nodded in agreement. “We will. Tell Jack to come see us soon. Mom said we’ll be here a few days.”

Aster reached over and ruffled Jamie’s hair. “I’ll let him know. Now go on and git.”

Jamie took Sophie’s hand as he and his little sister started to head off towards the pier again. He turned back and waved goodbye to Mary and the dragon riders.

      “It was nice to meet you all! I’ll see you next time Mary!”

The riders returned the wave. Aster turned his eyes to Mary and gave a soft sigh.

      “Go on back home Mary. Jack will be joining you soon enough. He’s okay I promise.” Aster assured the young girl. “North and the others need to talk to this bunch.”

Mary gave a silent nod as she gave a soft farewell to the riders that was returned before turning in her heels and returning home. Aster waited until Mary’s figure disappeared before his face hardened as his gaze fell on the riders who shifted uncomfortably.

      “Come you lot.” Aster said, waving them ahead as he turned to lead the way. “North wants to talk with you all.”

The riders all exchanged looks with one another as they followed Aster deeper into the village towards North’s workshop. They traversed deeper into the workshop than before. The yetis that Jack talked about fondly were milling about as the group weaved through them. Aster stepped over to an oak door lined with brass clippings carved into it with amber bedded into the top acting as glass. Aster turned to the group with a hard look before opening up the door. They were in the heart of North’s workshop. Inside the room as the riders stepped in Hiccup couldn’t help but marvel. He hadn’t been to this part of the workshop before if it could even be called a room from how massive it was. It was large and spacious with much open room. The ceiling was high enough he’d need Toothless to be able to touch it. The ceiling was made of reinforced thick glass. In the center of it all was a large map made of metal detailing different locations of the world, even places Hiccup hadn’t seen or been to yet. Parts of the floor were lined in red and black dyed fur rugs while the rest of the floor was made from stone. There were ladders to climb to the higher areas that couldn’t be reached on foot. Many windows lined the walls to allow natural lighting in while either rest of the light source came from torches. There were perches as if meant for dragons lining parts of the walls higher up. And Hiccup spotted some dragons either perched on some of the perches or hanging from some of the beams supporting the ceiling. 

     “Woah…” Ruffnut breathed impressed.

      “This is insane.” Tuffnut whispered to his sister amazed at the place they were in.

As they came further into the room they saw the guardians close enough to each other, but scattered about. North stood not far from the map, his arms crossed looking proud of himself as he watched the riders all look around the place they came into. Toothiana was suspended in the air, her multicolored crystal-like wings flapping as she gazed at the riders. She gave a small reassuring smile and waved at them. Sandy stood nearest to the wall behind the guardians drinking something in a mug. When he noticed them he too smiled while raising his mug in greeting. Then in an alcove of a window sat Jack. His hood was up obscuring his face from view as he gazed out of the window. His feet were bare with his boots sitting on the floor under where he sat. Frost trailing from where he was and reaching in different directions as it spiraled in different patterns. One of Jack’s feet dangled down as an arm rested against a bent knee. Luna laid on a perch somewhere above Jack, her rumbling making her presence known as she gazed down at the riders unhappy. She wasn’t threatening them, but her rumble was a warning that she was ready to pounce should she need to.

      “Welcome to the globe room!” North said with a flourish of his arm. 

Aster rolled his eyes at the man’s antics.

      “Come, we can bring a seat if you prefer to sit.” North offered.

      “Uh—” Hiccup started, only to be interrupted.

      “A seat would be great!” Tuffnut declared.

Astrid looked at the man accusingly. 

      “What?! He offered!” Tuffnut defended himself.

      “We’re not about to turn down an offered seat when we’ve been on our feet all day.” Ruffnut agreed with a dramatic sigh.

      “Good then! The yetis will bring chairs.” North said as the chairs were presented to the riders. 

      “I guess we’re sitting then.” Hiccup said sarcastically as no one else was able to get a word in otherwise.

North himself took a chair as well as the chairs were placed in a circle and everyone sat in a chair minus Jack who stayed where he was. Toothiana fluttered her wings as she slowly descended to sit on a chair next to North. Aster sitting on North’s other side with Sandy sitting next to him. Hiccup sat across from North with Astrid to his right. Fishlegs sat to his left with Snotlout sitting next to Astrid and the twins next to Fishlegs. All was silent other than the coming and goings of the yetis and the dragons perched above. North let the silence drag on before he cleared his throat, deciding to break the clearly tense silence that fell over the group.

      “Jack told us what happened.” North began deciding to start with the heart of what the problem at hand was. “We wished to discuss it with you.”

      “Which part? The ice powers part or the disappearing part?” Snotlout questioned slightly miffed.

      “Snotlout!” Fishlegs gasped at the other man’s harsh bluntness.

      “What?! Am I the only one upset that we’ve been here for a week and they just so failed to mention the one that’s been with us most of our time here also can turn us into human icicles if he wanted to?!” Snotlout demanded as he gestured to Jack who went rigid.

Aster scowled with a hard glare directed at Snotlout. “With the way you’re acting, who would want to tell ya lot something like that?!”

      “Aster!” Toothiana reprimanded the man. 

      “I’m sure he had his reasons.” Fishlegs tried to vindicate.

      “Yeah, but you have to admit hiding ice powers is pretty huge.” Ruffnut said contemplatingly. 

      “What she said.” Tuffnut said with a nod.

Before Hiccup could open his mouth to interject, North put his hand up to pause any more possible bickering.

      “Do not blame Jack for not telling you this, for the fault lies with me.” North said stately causing the others to pause.

      “Other than for obvious reasons why did you have him hide his powers?” Astrid questioned pensively.

North sighed as Toothiana placed a reassuring hand on his arm before she turned her attention to the dragon riders.

       “Because the last time we trusted someone with the secret Jack was kidnapped. His powers much like our own paint a target on our backs for those who wish to use them for their own selfish gains.” The woman explained disconsolately with a small frown marring her otherwise beautiful features.

      “The difference is we’ve had time to control our powers and know how to take care of those types of people.” Aster added.

Sandy with his sand made a symbol of Jack’s staff followed by a snowflake. Aster nodded at the smaller man.

      “Yeah, that, too.” Aster agreed.

      “What does he mean with that?” Astrid asked, confused.

      “He said that while I can control my powers I still need my staff since they still tend to get away from me.” Jack stated causing the others to turn their heads as he broke his silence. “Unlike the others who don’t need anything to use theirs and have experience with dealing with the evil of those who wish to use us, the only experience I have is getting kidnapped since it doesn’t take a lot to figure out what to use to thaw out something frozen.”

Hiccup’s heart clenched at hearing that. Just what has Jack had to go through for having those powers?

North let out a soft sigh. “It’s as Jack has said. People have figured out…countermeasures to try to keep Jack within their grasp to use his power.”

      “That's why we did not tell you. We couldn’t risk it.” Toothiana said sadly.

Hiccup nodded in understanding as his gaze turned to Jack. Jack looked at him as if waiting for a blow. Jack who had looked at them in fear after he used his powers in front of them. Jack who isn’t allowed out of the North Isles. Jack who is mischievous and above all a free spirit that’s been forced to stay in their little frozen part of the world because of the greed of others. 

      “You were protecting Jack.” Hiccup amended in understanding as to why they were not trusted. 

North nodded. “Yes, but the question now is what will you do with the information you’ve learned?”

Each of the guardians’s eyes sharpened at that as they gazed at the dragon riders. Jack remained silent as he too looked at the riders awaiting the answer. The vikings of Berk all looked at each other as if having a silent conversation with one another. It was clear to them what the answer would be. They thought of Jack who liked to pull pranks like the time he took Ruffnut’s helmet only to switch it with Tuffnut’s and tied Tuffnut’s helmet to a dragon. The blonde man had spent a quarter of the day trying to coax the dragon to stay still long enough to get his helmet back. Jack had sat on a roof watching the whole thing laughing merrily at the chaos of Tuffnut chasing the dragon through the village and the dragon knocking down some of the stands only to get Aster running in to try to stop it. Jack who loved dragons so fiercely he couldn’t leave a single one behind on a trapper’s ship and always went to check on the rehabilitating snow wraiths. Jack, who sat with Fishlegs as they shared stories and information about each other’s tribes. It was the snow haired man that would be surrounded by a gaggle of children during meals and would spin them tales of giants, fairies, and heroes. It was the young man who would always lend a hand to those in need and protected those he loved fiercely. Jack, who hid much of himself away from the world afraid of what it would bring if he let himself thaw out from his icy shell. 

Hiccup met Jack’s icy blue eyes with a fierce determination. “This doesn’t change anything. Jack is still a friend and he’s a dragon rider like us.” 

      “Yeah, he can just freeze things like Snotlout’s boots to the tallest roof.” Tuffnut said with a cackle at Snotlout’s indignant shout.

      “Jack is our friend. Having ice powers just means being able to cause more elaborate pranks.” Ruffnut said with a feral glint she gets when thinking of different ways to cause mayhem.

      “I’d like to think this doesn’t change much. Jack and I can still discuss the stories of our tribes. I really enjoyed those conversations with him.” Fishlegs said with a reassuring smile directed at Jack.

      “It would be easier to bust some trapper ships with his ice so I guess it’s okay so long as he doesn’t freeze my boots to the ground.” Snotlout said in his own nonchalant fashion that was just purely him.

Astrid gazed at Jack for a moment until she finally spoke. “I’m not going to say I’m happy about you hiding this from us because I’m not. But I understand why you did it. So long as you promise no more huge revelating secrets we’ll be fine. Like Hiccup pointed out, you're a dragon rider so that means you’re one of us whether you like it or not.”

Jack looked at the others shocked and overwhelmed, looking as if he wasn’t sure how to handle the revelation. He let out a small brittle chuckle as he ran his hand through his snow colored hair causing the hood of his cloak to slip back a bit enough to expose part of his face. His eyes were shining with joy with trepidation that was easing as he heard each of the rider’s words. 

      “No promises. You sure you want me part of all this when I can cause a blizzard?” Jack asked testing the waters and wanting to see how much truth their words held. 

      “Woah! Hold up! You can cause a blizzard?!” Snotlout asked, astonished at hearing this.

      “Don’t get me started on blizzards.” Aster said fractiously.

      “Awe Bunny you’re not still mad about that, are you?” Jack teased knowing he and Aster had already settled that when he became a guardian.

Aster smirked back at the younger man. “Who’s to say?” 

       “That’s so cool!” Tuffnut said with a grin.

      “The more we know you the cooler you get.” Ruffnut said with her own matching grin.

      “Literally.” Snotlout said with a snort.

Jack shot the other a mischievous grin as he took his staff and tapped the ground causing frost to travel and spiral until it froze the chair Snotlout was sitting on to the floor. Snotlout shouted in alarm and thankfully moved his feet up on the chair before the frost had reached his boots to freeze to the floor. He glared over at the pale man as laughter erupted in the room.

      “Jack, don't freeze chair to floor! It takes a while to thaw the frost out.” North reprimanded lightly.

      “Whoops.” Jack said with a grin. “Hey, since they know about my powers does this mean I don’t have to wear my boots everywhere?”

North let out a big bellied laugh. “Ha! No, you still have to wear boots. Now since all is settled you kids run along.”

      “Just remember if you’re lying—”

      “Aster, leave them be.” Toothiana said with a lighthearted laugh.

Aster tsked as he did as Toothiana asked. Jack laughed as Luna landed scooping up her human causing Jack to devolve into a fit of giggles as she rumbled happily. She looked at the riders with meaning as if to thank them. Her look was also one of warning hurt her rider and she would rain dragon fire on them. Hiccup gave a nervous smile to the light fury who looked satisfied with herself as she bounded away and out of the room carrying her laughing and spirited rider as the other dragon riders scrambled to follow. Luna knew she had no reason to worry about these humans when it came to her human companion anymore. They’ve proven themselves to not be a threat to them. Should that change she could handle it with her rider. But even with the joyous moment of Jack and the riders solidifying their friendship there were still dark forces moving in the shadows. One in particular that was laying in wait for the time to make himself known and to put his plans to action. Plans that centered around a certain white haired young man with powers over the ice and snow.

Chapter Text

The wind whipped by as heavy footfalls fell on the muddied ground. Leaves crunched as boots raced by carrying the person deeper into the forest. The forest was dark and dense enough that anyone inside could barely see in front of them. White locks of hair bounced as Jack raced through the forest. His staff was nowhere to be seen as he had lost it earlier during his struggle with the creature chasing him. His breath came out fast as he panted from the exertion from running. He looked over his shoulder and saw naught by a pair of gold eyes in the blackness behind and they kept getting closer and closer. Branches snagged on his cloak as he fought to free them before racing to get away. Get away from the creature chasing him and get out of this dark forest. Everywhere he turned there was nothing, but darkness. He could barely see his own hand in front of his own face. He knows how he got there, but that didn’t help if he couldn’t see the way out. After what felt like forever he finally saw a small light in the darkness. Jack raced towards it as he heard a voice echo behind him.

      “You can’t run forever Jack. You belong here.”

Jack picked up his pace running as if his life depended on it and it very well might. 

      “Almost there.” Jack said to himself as he heard the clip clopping of hooves behind him. 

When he finally broke through the foliage of the forest he kept running and then abruptly stopped sliding slightly as he came to a cliff. The ocean roared below as Jack turned back to the forest just as the creature emerged. The creature was black and made of black sand. Its eyes glowing a ghastly gold color. Jack looked down at the ocean below. Before he could move a black dart made of black sand hit him square in the chest. He gasped dropping to his knees before falling the rest of the way to the ground as he slowly lost consciousness. A figure of a man draped in darkness stepped out of the forest. He had glossy black hair with gold eyes. He stepped over to the unconscious young man and kneeled down, turning the boy onto his back. He looked over Jack before scooping him up into his arms with an arm under his shoulders and knees. He stood and turned around. He paused as if seeing someone and gave a smirk as he gazed directly in that direction as if to lock eyes with someone. 

      “You didn’t think you could keep him hidden forever, did you? He belongs to me now.” The man said laughing as he and the black creature disappeared in the darkness his voice echoed as he disappeared. “Fret not, I'll be sure to take very good care of him.”

North bolted up in bed gasping for breath. What in Mani was that dream?! Toothiana woke up feeling her husband jolt awake. She placed a hand on his arm as he turned back to her.

      “Nick what’s wrong?” She asked softly.

      “I must check on Jack.” North said hurriedly getting out of bed and making his way out of his bedroom.

Toothiana scrambled alarmed as she followed her husband down to Jack’s room. Once there North quietly peeked into the room seeing Luna curled up on the bed wrapped around her sleeping rider. Jack slept curled with furs and blankets draped over him as he slept peacefully with each quiet exhale. Luna opened her eyes looking over to see North and Toothiana before she huffed at being woken before closing her eyes to fall back asleep. Luna had a tendency to curl up with Jack so North had to do a lot of experimenting with bedframes until he found a way to get it to hold both Jack’s and Luna’s weight without breaking and splintering anymore. North gave a relieved sigh and smile as he quietly closed the door, careful not to wake Jack. Toothiana laid a hand on her husband’s wrist as he turned to look down at his wife.

      “Nick what’s wrong?” Toothiana asked tentatively.

North let out a careful yet quiet exhale. “I dreamt of Pitch.”

Toothiana gasped. “What happened in your dream?”

      “He took Jack. Said he’d take care of him and that Jack belonged to him.” North admitted uneasily.

Toothiana covered her mouth. North shook his head as he took both of Toothiana’s hands in his larger ones.

      “Nothing will happen to Jack. It was a nightmare and nothing more. We can’t let this rattle us. However, we should treat this as a sign just in case.” North said firmly.

      “In case of what?!” Toothiana whispered, not liking the sounds of it.

     “In case it really was Pitch and he sent me that dream to rattle us and make us sloppy. We can’t let our guard down.” North said with determination.

Toothiana nodded her head in agreement. “Do you really think…?”

North shook his head unsure. “I don’t know Ana. But I do know that I have a bad feeling in my belly and it’s never wrong.”

Toothiana shifted uneasily. “Let’s go to bed Nick. We’ll figure this all out in the morning.”

North nodded in agreement as he and Toothiana made their way back to their bedroom they had previously abandoned to check on their adopted son. North did not like the dream he had, but he knew he needed to treat it as a sign. If he ignored it that could lead to consequences for Jack that North wasn’t sure any of them least of all Jack could afford to pay. As he and Toothiana settled back into bed he could only hope that his bad feeling was wrong. 

Hiccup sat off to the side in North’s workshop watching as the man tinkered away making things from ice and metal. It was interesting to say the least how North made things come to life. He supposed that’s one of the reasons he’s the guardian of wonder. Hiccup listened to North as he hummed a tune to himself. Hiccup honestly didn’t know why he was here. North had dropped by and asked for him to come walk with him and they eventually ended up in North’s workshop with Hiccup watching him work. North seemed to be shut up in the workshop or at the forge in his spare time when he wasn’t busy running the village or spending time with his family or the other guardians. Hiccup once asked Jack about it and the young man just shrugged and gave a halfhearted and vague response that Hiccup still didn’t entirely understand. The auburn haired man jumped startled when he felt a heavy hand on his shoulder. He had been so lost in thought he didn’t notice when North had finished working. Hiccup turned his emerald green eyes to North who gave a small smile.

     “Hiccup.” The older man started. “Sorry for startling you. I brought you here because I wanted to talk. Ana has put the thought in my head and I was unsure at first, but I believe I’ve made my decision.”

     “And what decision would that be exactly?” Hiccup questioned unsure. 

     “Why the decision to discuss a friendship between our tribes of course!” North exclaimed proudly.

     “Uh, wait what?” Hiccup asked, wondering where that came from.

     “Well, I suppose the more correct wording is alliance, but well bah! Same thing. I’ll be sending a message to the chief of your tribe and was hoping you could tell me about what your tribe has to offer so perhaps we could also set up trade between our tribes.” North added on as he brought his thoughts to Hiccup.

     “I got that, but why now?” Hiccup asked, perplexed.

North let out a soft sigh. “Well, you are the first people from a tribe that don’t harm dragons. That and maybe allowing Jack to visit may finally help get some of that wanderlust out of his system. But I believe our tribes can offer each other much and that we can learn from one another.”

Hiccup looked at North surprised. “You would allow Jack to come to Berk?”

     “But of course. You all are the first friends around his own age. I couldn’t possibly tell him to not see you after you leave. He’d probably find a way there on his own if I tried to do that.” North said, chortling out a laugh at the thought.

Hiccup looked at the other man amazed at hearing it. “We would love to host Jack and the rest of you at Berk. I’m sure Jack would love it there.”

Hiccup could already see Jack loving the island teeming with dragons that the Berkians called home. He was sure Jack would be able to find or make his own mischief to get up to while there, too. It’s already been half a week since they discovered Jack's powers and the white haired man held nothing back with them now. He’s already frozen Tuffnut’s boots to the ceilings. He has iced the floors causing Snotlout to slip and slide through the building before crashing into a shelf and having everything on that shelf come tumbling down on top of the poor man. He also started running around barefoot spreading frost with every step he took. Aster chased after the young man waving his boots around and shouting to put the blasted things on and stop spreading frost everywhere. Hiccup didn’t realize until afterwards how much of himself Jack was hiding by not being able to use his powers. Hiccup spotted that lopsided grin more freely on his face as he laughed over whatever mischief he got himself up to. He even saw Jack on quite a few occasions start snowball fights with the kids in the village and even managed to rope the riders into it. North clapped his hand on Hiccup’s shoulder giving a strong pat that nearly knocked the younger man off of the chair he was sitting on as the older man laughed heartily. 

     “Good lad! I look forward to discussing everything with your father.” North said happily.

     “I’ll send a message ahead. Dad doesn’t do too well with sudden surprises.” Hiccup said thoughtfully as he started to draft up a message to send to Stoick.

Hiccup’s was short and to the point. He wrote that North, the chief of the Santoff Claussen tribe, wished to discuss an alliance and possible trade arrangements with Berk. Once he was done he handed it over to North.

     “Think you can send it?” Hiccup asked the older man, offering the message.

     “But of course! Now then what sort of wares does your tribe have?” North asked, taking the parchment from Hiccup’s hands.

     “Well, we are known for our metalworking. We primarily trade iron. Gronkle iron to be more precise.” Hiccup explained to the other.

North nodded thoughtfully. “We could use the trade of Gronkle iron as we usually have to travel far to acquire the metal. In turn we can offer our own knowledge of magic. Or we could offer some of the spices we have. There’s also bear meat.”

Hiccup looked at the other man taken aback. “I’m sorry, did you just say bear meat?”

      “Of course from when Aster and I wrestle the bears!” North said with a big laugh as if it was the most normal thing there is.

These people actually wrestle bears and then cook and eat them. Hiccup really shouldn’t be as surprised as he is. This tribe was about as on par as Berk was with the crazy things the inhabitants did there. But well they were vikings. It came with the territory he supposed. 

      “We could offer both the food and the knowledge. Think of the knowledge as our apology for how we treated you and your friends when you first got here.” North said with a small smile.

Hiccup shook his hands back and forth. “Please don’t apologize for that. It was understandable. You have people you have to keep safe and we were strange people that crashed in through your barrier.”

North chuckled. “I suppose you’re right, but we shall still give it. Now enough treaty talk I’ll save that for your father. You go on back to your friends or maybe go meet up with Jack.”

Hiccup nodded as he stood. “Well, we’ll have to see who I find first. But thanks North.”

North waved him off. “No thanks needed lad. Now if you excuse me I have your message to send.”

Hiccup nodded to the other as he exited the workshop and proceeded to leave the building. Last he saw Jack he was telling a story to the village children joined by the Thorston twins. Of course that was before North snagged him and pulled him into the workshop. As the auburn haired man stepped out and into the village he checked some of Jack’s usual places he’s been. Jack has complained every day since he was grounded until eventually North eased and changed it so that he could fly so long as someone was with him and Luna. That person was usually Hiccup the majority of the time. Not that Hiccup was complaining. Toothless was usually itching to fly when the night fury saw Jack and Luna were going to. Hiccup was startled out of his thoughts when a pile of snow fell on top of him covering his head and shoulders in the powdery snow. It was when lighthearted laughing followed that the auburn haired man knew exactly who the culprit was. He dusted off the snow as he looked up and there sat the very person he was looking for, Jack. The snow haired teen tilted his head in slight challenge with a grin on his face. This unfortunately has been the new normal for them when it came to Jack. 

      “Really Jack? I come outside and you decide it’s the best time to dump snow on me?” Hiccup asked with teasing offense as he finished dusting the snow from his hair.

Jack gave a lopsided grin as he shrugged. “But you were lost in such deep thought it was the perfect time to do it.”

Hiccup shook his head with fond exasperation. “Oh yeah because I love having snow being dumped on me out of nowhere.”

Jack giggled. “See? No harm done!”

      “You’re impossible."

      “You love it.” Jack said as he flipped down from the roof he was previously occupying.

      “What were you doing up there anyways?” Hiccup asked, looking at the other man.

Jack shrugged. “ I may or may not have swapped out Snotlout’s helmet for Ruffnut’s. Now she’s chasing him around the village swearing to bury him alive since she thinks he stole her helmet.”

Hiccup sighed dramatically. “Can you not instigate the twins trying to kill anyone for a few hours?”

      “What’s the fun in that?” Jack asked the other rhetorically.

      “You are a menace!” Hiccup said, throwing his hands in the air as if to emphasize his point.

The snow haired teen chortled at the other as Luna came slinking over purring at her rider’s joy. Toothless following not too far behind her as the night fury sidled up to his rider. Hiccup shook his head fondly as he started to pet the top of Toothless’s head. Jack smiled as he pet Luna’s ear plates.

      “And what have you two been up to?” Jack asked with a teasing lilt.

Toothless gave a soft happy warble looking at Luna who let out a huff with smoking steaming from her nostrils. Toothless looked dismayed giving a sad expression at Luna’s response. Jack shook his head while reaching over and giving Toothless a reassuring pat.

      “Don’t worry Toothless she’s just antisocial. The first time I met her I thought she was going to eat me.” Jack told the night fury while shooting Luna an offended look when she warbled out a laugh at Jack’s words. “Oh, that’s funny is it? Well, excuse me for worrying about that you literally pinned me to the ground!”

Hiccup placed a hand over his mouth to keep from laughing at the white haired boy’s expense. Jack huffed teasingly indignant at the light fury who looked pleased with herself.

      “Don’t worry Toothless she may come across as intimidating but she’s really just a big softie.” Jack whispered to the night fury only to be lightly whacked with a wing from Luna.

Jack grinned while rubbing the back of his head as Toothless gave him a smile. Totally worth it. The light fury huffed at her rider as he lifted his hands in mock surrender.

      “Alright, alright. I’ll stop you drama queen.” Jack said amused at the light fury giving an indignant warble.

Hiccup chuckled at the young man and his antics with the light fury. Jack glanced over at the auburn haired man as he leaned against his staff. 

      “So what were you thinking of getting yourself up to?” Jack asked the other man.

      “Well, I was thinking of mapping out more of the islands you guys have here. Want to come with?” Hiccup asked the white haired man.

      “Do you even have to ask? Let’s go!” Jack said, leading the way.

Hiccup chuckled as he followed the pale teen with their dragons following behind at a more sedated pace. As he gazed at Jack who excitedly rambled about which island they could go to and what each one holds and the dragons inhabited there Hiccup couldn’t help but hope his father got his message soon and that they could do what he and North discussed soon. It would be nice to show Jack more of the world he hadn’t gotten the chance to see. Jack was what the twins had declared an honorary dragon rider of Berk. Jack had asked if that just made him a dragon rider of the North Isles then since they were all dragon riders. Hiccup still isn’t sure what answer they settled on for that retort. But Hiccup knew one thing: Jack was one of them plain and simple. He hoped Jack saw that’s how they all felt as well. 

Astrid set down the last of the crates in the healer’s hut with a small huff. The healer in question nodded her thanks to the blonde woman before Astrid left the building. She had been feeling idle and wanting to keep her mind occupied so she had gone to North and Aster to ask if there was anything she could do to help around their village. They had looked at one another a bit perplexed before North said there were crates of supplies that had come in that they needed help distributing. Some of the metals needed to be taken to the forge while others were taken by North to the workshop. The spices needed to be stored away. The medical herbs and other medical supplies were taken to the healer’s hut. Which is where Astrid was now leaving as she made her way through the village. The children in the village chased each other with laughs with the occasional dragon flying overhead. Astrid could understand why Hiccup liked this place so much. It was the first village that held the same ideas as Berk when it came to living in harmony with the dragons. The difference is that this tribe didn’t have a bloody history of killing dragons. Something that Jack seemed to abhor when he had first found that out about their tribe’s history. As she was about to make her way to where the dragon stables were she was stopped by a voice.

      “Hey, Astrid.” Fishlegs greeted her.

      “Oh, hey Fishlegs.” Astrid returned the greeting. “Everything okay?”

      “Yeah, everything is good. It’s just…” Fishlegs trailed off unsure how to phrase what he wanted to say. “You seemed like you had a lot on your mind.”

Astrid’s lips thinned. She was being that obvious, was she? 

      “If you want to talk about it, we are friends and I’m willing to listen.” The man assured Astrid.

Astrid let out a soft sigh. Fishlegs was always a good friend, but she was unsure about talking about this subject matter. It was no secret when her and Hiccup were having issues. The others had all seen it plain as day. But it was another matter to voice it out loud. Astrid felt if she voiced it then she may have to face it as well and she was unsure if she was ready to do that.

Fishlegs gave a small reassuring smile. “When you’re ready of course you can talk or not. Whichever you decide…even if it’s about Hiccup.”

Astrid gave a long sigh. “We’re that obvious, huh?”

Fishlegs fiddled with the book in his hands nervously. “Well, I mean you guys don’t exactly hide it. You go one way so Hiccup goes the other and the same in reverse. It’s like you both are avoiding each other so you don’t have to talk about it.”

Well, Astrid knew they were kind of avoiding each other the last half week. But she didn’t think they were that obvious about it. Then again Fishlegs has always been observant. 

      “Alright, come on then. I was on my way to Stormfly. We’ll talk there.” Astrid said deciding it was probably best to talk so she can finally get this off her chest.

Fishlegs nodded as they made their trek to the dragon stables. Once there both Stormfly and Meatlug greeted their riders as they saw them approaching. Astrid smiled as she petted the scales of Stormfly’s flank. Fishlegs was happily scratching under Meatlug’s chin. He then turned to Astrid once they got settled in to tend to their dragons feeding them and scrubbing their scales of any grime. Astrid contemplated how to start the conversation before deciding a direct approach was the best way to do it.

      “I feel like Hiccup and I are drifting apart.” Astrid admitted to the blonde man.

Fishlegs gave Astrid his full undivided attention and motioned for her to continue and he was listening.

Astrid gave a sigh as she leaned against Stormfly’s side. “It’s just we barely spend any time together and when we do it’s with the other riders as a group. We haven’t spent time together, just us, in a while. Since we got here he’s been off doing who knows what or he’s been with Jack.”

Fishlegs nodded thoughtfully. “He does spend a lot of time with Jack. Is that bad?”

Astrid huffed. “No, it’s just that it would be nice to spend some time alone with him. I get it he’s excited to make a new friend that rides a dragon and doesn’t actively hunt them. He’s excited over Luna and how important that is to Toothless and over learning about this tribe. But I feel like the longer we’ve been here the more he’s changed.”

Fishlegs tapped his chin thoughtfully. “I suppose that does make some sense.”

Astrid looked at Fishlegs skeptically. “It does?”

She thought she was being irrational.

Fishlegs nodded in affirmation. “Yes. I remember something North said about the North Isles and the tribe. He told me at one point that the North Isles has an effect of changing people. That it can be the effect of magic or one’s mind becoming open to the knowledge they lacked. But he said that whether for good or bad people that come to the North Isles changes in one way or another. That if they change it is Mani’s will.”

Astrid raised an inquisitive eyebrow at that. “Sounds like a bunch of superstition.”

      “I thought so too at first. But I think he might be right. We’ve all changed because of this place. We just have to decide if the change is good. How do you feel Hiccup’s changed?” Fishlegs asked gently.

Astrid crossed her arms as she thought about it. She thought of the way Hiccup seems to smile and laugh more easily with Jack than he does with the rest of them, even her. How even before coming here the spark they had in their relationship just seemed like simmering embers instead of a gentle fire. Astrid thought about how Hiccup is able to discuss dragons and especially the differences between a night fury and a light fury with Jack. How they both pull stupid and dangerous stunts while flying. 

      “He’s happier here than I’ve ever seen him before other than when he’s flying with Toothless.” Astrid admitted quietly. “Not that he was unhappy in Berk, but it’s like he walks lighter without anything pressing down on his shoulders. He laughs and smiles more here than he did in Berk. He talks more with Jack about probably everything from this tribe to Berk to dragons to whatever else they can think of. Hiccup seems like he’s not pressed down while he’s been here. Him and I…we don’t have that spark anymore in our relationship. Sure we still talk and hold hands, but… I can’t remember the last time we actually kissed each other.”

Fishlegs hummed showing he was listening and not judging. “Well, it’s not my place to say, but maybe this is something you should talk about Hiccup with. He could be feeling the same way and you know how Hiccup is with problems of the emotional kind.”

Astrid nodded while giving the other a dry look. “He sucks at it… but I suppose I’m not much better in that aspect either. Thanks for listening to me. I think I will talk to him about it.”

Fishlegs gave the other blonde a smile. “Just happy to help a friend.”

She nodded again with a small smile of her own before standing up straighter. “Come on, Stormfly. Let’s see if we can find that muttonhead.”

The deadly nadder warbled at her rider as the viking and dragon left the stables. She headed into the village as she had a certain auburn haired viking to wrangle so they could finally talk. 

North sat in the workshop as he looked over the map of the world he had on his desk. He had a crease in his brow as he gazed upon the map. Toothiana stood not too far away from him as she looked on worriedly. The yetis were bustling about outside the door in the workshop. North rubbed his temple in slight stress as he thought about the places he’s yet to look. He let out a sigh as he pressed at the train made of ice on the desk causing it to move slightly as he gave a small smile. Jack had made that thick block of ice and gave it to North proudly when he was younger. Just as he was about to speak to Toothiana the door slammed open causing something to rattle off of a shelf as it fell and broke. North gasped dramatically as the yeti copied him and gasped in trepidation. 

      “How many times do I have to tell you to knock?!” North bellowed at the yeti as the yeti replied in its language.

North paused as Toothiana looked alarmed. “What do you mean there’s activity in the globe room?!”

North quickly got up grabbing one of his sabers as he hurried into the workshop and to the globe room. Toothiana hurried behind him as her wings fluttered as she flew. Upon getting to the room the lights were flickering causing North to pause.

      “What…?” He uttered confused. 

Toothiana gasped as she looked at the black sand slowly encasing the world map. It formed into a black ball above the map before dispersing. North covered his face before looking at the world map and paused. The lights and torches had gone out and there was no sound except for the sound of a very familiar laugh laced with sinister intent. North felt his blood run cold. No, it couldn’t be! He looked over to his wife who looked just as panicked as he felt. Pitch couldn’t be here!

      “Pitch!” North bellowed angrily as the lights and torches all came back to life. 

      “No, it cannot be.” Toothiana gasped out. “North! The kids!”

North took Toothiana’s hands. “Call the other guardians! I want more patrols around the village and island! And I want eyes on my children now! Bring Jack in immediately! I will not let that monster take my son.”

The yetis scrambled to do as told as North pulled a lever and pressed down sending a bright light shooting up from the workshop. When he turned to leave the room he saw Aster standing in the doorway looking as out of depth as he felt.

      “North what in blazes is going on here?!” The man demanded. “Why are you calling the guardians?!”

      “It’s Pitch.” North said seriously. “He was here.”

      “What?!” Aster shouted in disbelief. “You can’t be serious!”

      “It’s true Aster. We didn’t see him, but we heard him. Heard his laugh.” Toothiana said solemnly.

Aster dropped his arms in dubiety. “What about–”

      “Get Jack!” North ordered. “You’re the fastest of us and I want eyes on him and on Mary.”

Aster nodded as he ran out of the room. Sandy arrived just as Aster departed. He looked worried at the two as he gazed at the world map and back at his fellow guardians. North nodded to his friend in greeting as he too turned to the world map.

       “May Mani help us in this hour of need.” North muttered desolate as Toothiana placed a reassuring hand on her husband’s arm.

Hiccup stumbled as he was bodily dragged by Astrid until she dropped him into a chair. He was in the library with Jack as they were discussing Luna’s ability to disappear by flying into her plasma blasts. Jack theorized that Toothless should be able to do the same thing, but they were discussing safe ways to do that without Hiccup getting barbecued and without Toothless’s prosthetic tailfin getting fried. They had been deep in that discussion since they got back from their flight together allowing Hiccup to learn more of the other islands in the North Isles. That was when Astrid strode up and said she needed to borrow Hiccup as she had something important to discuss with him before she bodily hauled him from his seat and out the building leaving a very confused Jack behind. 

As he exited the building he was surprised to see Astrid leaning against the wall next to the door. 

      “Astrid, what are you doing here?” Hiccup asked the shield maiden. 

The blonde stood from where she was leaning as she fiddled nervously with one of her forearm bracers. “We need to talk and I think it’s something we can’t put off anymore.”

Hiccup nodded in understanding. The two of them had been putting off talking for a while. It wasn’t intentional. But Hiccup could tell this was a conversation the both of them needed to have with each other. Astrid had dragged him to the guest rooms the chief had given them to use during their stay. Astrid dragged him until they reached the room Hiccup had been given to stay in. Each of the guest rooms were pretty much the same with a bed covered in downy pillows and thick fur blankets. A wooden desk shoved into the corner somewhere with a lamp on the table to act as a source of light should it be needed. A fur rug on the floor over the hard stone of the floor for something easier on the feet to walk on. The walls painted a neutral cream color. Hiccup pulled out the chair from the desk and sat facing Astrid who took a seat on the bed. The both remained silent for another moment trying to each figure out how to word what needed to be spoken. The silence stretched on for what seemed like forever until finally Hiccup let out a sigh breaking the silence.

      “I guess we both should have seen this conversation coming since it’s been long overdue.” Hiccup said nervously. 

Astrid nodded in agreement. “Well, our relationship isn’t what it was and we’ve definitely grown distant with each other.”

Hiccup opened his mouth but shut it quickly when the blonde raised her hand to halt him from speaking. “It’s not your fault or mine. We’ve just grown apart. We don’t have that spark we had in the beginning. This relationship was obviously rushed. We didn’t do anything traditionally.”

Hiccup turned the words over and realized as much as he’d like to deny it that the shield maiden was right. They had grown distant with each other before they came to the North Isles. It started small with not spending as much time as they used to with each other. Then they were too busy to spend time together when one of them was free. Then it was finding that their interests did not align. Astrid liked to train and she loved her axes while Hiccup enjoyed time in the forge and making new inventions. The only thing they had in common outside of their friends was their love for dragons. But things started to compound more as they were at the North Isles. Hiccup spent more time between the forge, workshop, library, Jack, and exploring the North Isles. Astrid spent her time between odd jobs in the village, helping with patrol, and tending to the dragons.

      “We barely spend any time together alone. You’re usually with Jack which I’m glad you’re getting along with him or you’re in the forge or North’s workshop or you’re off exploring the North Isles or doing something else. I’m usually training with my axe, helping with any odd jobs, or helping with the dragons. You’re happier here than you were before. You smile and laugh more with Jack than you ever did with any of us, which I’m glad. You seem almost lighter, like you’re not carrying the weight of the world anymore.” Astrid said, making sure to try to get the point across.

Hiccup rubbed the back of his head. “I won’t lie, I even noticed I feel happier. It’s not the same as when I go flying with Toothless, but it’s close enough. Jack just makes things so much fun no matter what he does. I noticed that we’ve been growing apart too. We… just don’t see eye to eye like we used to. I have an opinion on one thing and you have the opposite of it. Our interests don’t even align.”

      “Do you regret it?” Astrid asked sadly.

Hiccup gaze sharpened as he looked at Astrid. “No, I don’t regret being with you Astrid. We’ve just drifted apart to where we–”

Astrid finished Hiccup’s sentence. “We lost the spark that made this relationship work.”

Hiccup let out a long suffering sigh. He was hoping to avoid this conversation, but it was clearly pressing down on both of them.

      “You’re right. We have. I still love you, but… but not like I used to. I’m sorry I made you feel the growing distance.” Hiccup apologized softly.

      “I feel the same way. But I’m sorry too because we’re both at fault for that..” Astrid said sadly. “Maybe it’s best we end this relationship.”

      “I was afraid you’d say that. Astrid whether this relationship worked or not I still want to be your friend because you’re one of the best friends I have.” Hiccup said firmly, making sure to get his feelings across.

Astrid smiled. “Of course Hiccup. I’d like that.”

Hiccup let out a soft chuckle. “Look at us. We sure know how to make things complicated.”

Astrid punched Hiccup in the arm causing him to wince. “We’re vikings, we never make things easy.”

Hiccup chuckled. “Well, that’s true.”

      “So Jack, huh?”

Hiccup looked startled before smiling. “He’s a good friend. He just gets it, you know?”

Astrid gazed at the auburn haired man with a look of amusement. “You sure he’s just a friend?”

Hiccup sputtered at Astrid’s teasing. “Positive.”

Astrid grinned at Hiccup’s reaction poking his flushed cheek. Hiccup chuckled and paused when he saw the light coming from North’s workshop from the window. Astrid looked and paused in slight alarm.

      “What is that?” She whispered in puzzlement.

      “I don’t know, but I bet it’s not good news.” Hiccup said as he stood.

Astrid stood too as they both exited the room and quickly went out to the village. As they started travelling closer to North’s workshop they saw Aster speeding by looking panicked.

      “Aster?!” Hiccup called alarmed at the man who looked perturbed.

      “Have either of you seen Jack?!” Aster asked flustered.

      “He was in the library when we left.” Hiccup said as Aster sped away. “Woah! Hey! What’s going on!?!”

      “No time to explain!” Aster shouted over his shoulder. 

Hiccup and Astrid both looked at each other with apprehension. That could not be good. They hurried after Aster trying to keep up with him. As they hurried back to the library hoping Jack was still there. Upon arrival they were greeted to the sight of Jack flailing as he was flung over Aster’s shoulder. Aster did not have time to explain to the arguing teen. Mary was there looking nervous as she followed behind.

      “Bunny put me down!” Jack demanded as he beat his fist against Aster’s back in frustration with his free hand not holding his staff.

      “Sorry no can do mate! I have to get you and Mary back home and you’re coming with the rest of the guardians.” Aster said as he started to stride away with Mary following along quietly.

Astrid stepped in front of Aster stopping him in his tracks making the man glare. “Don’t you think it’s unfair to force him to go somewhere he clearly doesn’t want to.”

Aster scowled down his nose at the blonde. “This has nothing to do with you.”

Astrid returned the glare. “I think it does if it concerns Jack who is our friend.”

Aster stared a little longer, tightening his loosening hold on the flailing teenager on his shoulder before letting out a long suffering sigh. “You’ll not let it go will you?”

Astrid looked pleased. “Not a chance.”

      “Fine come if you must. North may kick you out anyways. You’ll find out there. Let’s go!” Aster said as Astrid and Hiccup followed behind him as they all made their way to the workshop. 

Mary was promptly dropped off at home on the way to the workshop. Once inside they made their way to the globe room where Jack was unceremoniously dumped. He huffed shooting Aster an icy glare as Hiccup helped the pale man to his feet. The other riders were there too apparently.

      “What are you guys doing here?” Hiccup asked.

      “Same as you.” Snotlout replied disinterested.

      “We saw the light and came to investigate.” Fishlegs supplied.

      “What was the light?” Astrid questioned.

      “That was the call for the guardians.” North answered. “It’s how we can always make sure that no matter where we may be in the world we know to return here and gather when we are needed.”

      “Why did you call the guardians?” Jack asked, looking at North.

North let out a soft sigh relieved as he gazed at his adopted son. “This is a conversation I’m sadly going to have to ask the riders to miss.”

Hiccup furrowed his brow. 

Astrid crossed her arms. “And why’s that?”

North sighed. “Because this is our mess.”

Hiccup could understand that. How many times did they say the same thing when they stayed on the Edge when they were younger?

“Come on guys let’s go.” Hiccup said as he motioned for the other riders to follow him out the door.

North nodded his thanks to him on his way past. As soon as the door shut behind them he spun around in time to see the twins both placing a cut to the door with their ears next to it.

      “What are you doing?” Hiccup asked, pinching the bridge of his nose.

      “Shh! We’re investigating.” Ruffnut shushed the man.

      “More like eavesdropping.” Astrid said with a roll of her eyes.

      “Tamato. Potato.” Tuffnut said back.

Astrid looked at the other incredulously. “That doesn’t even make sense.”

      “But it does.” Tuffnut replied. “Perhaps it’s you that does make sense.”

      “For the love of Thor knock it off you two! Stop trying to listen in on their conversation.” Hiccup said, exasperatedly.

      “Focus!” Ruffnut said, smacking her brother as he then went back to what they were doing.

      “Huh.” Tuffnut said nonchalantly.

      “What? What is it?” Snotlout asked.

      “They said something with nightmare in it and it came back.” Ruffnut explained.

      “Nightmare?” Snotlout asked.

Fishlegs shifted nervously. “Guys I don’t think you should be listening in–”

      “Sounded like nightmare king.” Tuffnut said. “But who would want to be the king of that?”

      “There are so much better things to be the king of.” Ruffnut said noncommittally.

      “Yeah, like the king of chickens!” Tuffnut said.

      “Why would someone want to be the king of that?” Astrid drawled.

      “Simple. They can peck your enemies to death!” Tuffnut said appraisingly. 

Hiccup shifted uncomfortably as did Fishlegs when hearing about the Nightmare King making the other riders turn to them. Snotlout rolled his eyes. Of course they knew

      “Spill!” Snotlout demanded.

      “The Nightmade King was once part of the guardians. But he ended up hurting and killing a lot of people when he turned evil. He ended up bringing and turning into the opposite of what the guardians stand for. He brings fear and darkness.” Fishlegs explained.

      “I’ll bring him darkness when I smash his head with my face!” Tuffnut said with a wave of his arms.

      “I don’t think that’s how that works but points for enthusiasm.” Hiccup drawled sarcastically. 

Before anyone could say anymore they paused hearing Aster and Jack shouting in the room.

      “Don’t I get a say in this?!” Jack yelled frustrated.

      “Because you’re the one in danger here!” Aster yelled angrily. “Don’t you get it?! Your powers aren’t just strong, but they’re growing. He’ll want you for that very reason.”

Hiccup paused, feeling sorry for Jack. He could just imagine Jack’s look of offense on his face as he felt powerless. Hiccup knew that feeling well. The twins both moved away from the door as they felt there was only one outcome of this. Before Hiccup could say more the door slammed open and Jack stormed out of the room and stomped down the hall. Frost crackled behind him on the floor with each step as snowflakes trailed behind him. Aster went to follow only to be stopped by North.

      “Let him calm down. I will talk to him later.” North said with a sigh as he looked to the riders standing outside the door looking sheepish. “Luckily your father had replied immediately and will be coming here tomorrow so we can discuss an alliance between our tribes in the meantime it is late. Everyone rest up. We will talk tomorrow.”

North dismissed everyone including the hesitant riders who were standing near the door and were ushered away to eat and retire for the night. North sighed as he knew this would be a long night.

If you would have told Stoick almost two weeks ago he’d be sitting across from the chief of the very tribe the Barbaric Archipelago has spread fearful rumors of, he would have laughed. But here he is now sat across from the man North, his wife Toothiana, and his second Aster with himself, Gobber, and Hiccup sitting across from them. Stoick was shocked and flabbergasted when he was sent through a portal to travel to the North Isles or as Hiccup informed him North liked to call it sometimes the North Pole. From what Stoick has gathered in his messages from Hiccup was that North and his group were hospitable to the riders and the chief, North was a reasonable man. They didn’t trust the riders at first, but now they do. He also came to know that Hiccup and the other riders had befriended North’s heir of the Santoff Claussen tribe, Jack. He also came to understand that yes these people all could use magic and that they were chosen by Mani himself. Normally Stoick would have tossed anyone that told him that into the ocean and called them mad. But witnessing the portal that brought him here and seeing these people in person seemed to be all the proof he needed. Although, Gobber did ramble on about fae and trolls for a bit. Thankfully he stopped just as quickly when Stoick gave him a disapproving look. Here they were now trying to come to an agreement for an alliance and to open up trade between their villages. They have both been discussing things both of their villages needed and what they could offer for trade. 

North leaned back from where he sat as he gazed at the other chief across from him. “We are in need of Gronkle iron. We’d be willing to trade for that.”

Stoick nodded as he looked at the other in thought. “Hiccup has told me you have an abundance of many different types of spices that your tribe cultivates themselves.”

      “That we do.” North said in affirmation.

      “Then perhaps for the spices we could offer the Gronkle iron.” Stoick offered.

“I see no harm in that. We tend to overgrow some of the spices. We’d be willing to give you our extras and anything else of it within reason of course. We also could throw in some bear meat.” North agreed while offering the other.

       “Then it’s a deal settled on that front. Now on to the next. Hiccup mentioned you offered to teach us about magic.”

Aster let out a soft huff. “Within reason. There are certain subjects sacred to our tribe that we cannot allow into the hands of others.”

Stoick nodded in understanding. “But of course.”

Toothiana quickly cut in. “But we can have one of our own teach your tribe.”

       “Aye. That’s all well an’ good but who would be the one teaching?” Gobber questioned.

       “Why Jack of course!” North stated proudly.

       “Jack? He’s your heir, correct?” Stoick asked the other.

North nodded in affirmation. “That he is! The pride of the North Isles!”

Stoick smiled hearing North speak of his adopted son much like how Stoick spoke about Hiccup. Stoick had also heard about this Jack from Hiccup and the other riders. He was painted quite the picture. He’ll be honest he wasn’t expecting a boy built like a fish bone and someone even smaller than Hiccup no less. The boy he saw was small and unlike anyone Stoick had seen before. Snow white hair, pale skin, and all. Stoick had heard of how their tentative friendship had begun. The boy was not too trusting of others it seemed. That was reasonable. He also had a mischievous streak from the stories of the pranks he has pulled on the riders thus far. Not only that but from what he could tell in the short time he’s been there Hiccup had gotten close and befriended this Jack. He had seen the two earlier leaning over a book as their discussion became more and more animated. Hiccup had laughed at something the white haired youth had said as he gestured wildly. It was not his usual laugh. Hiccup had let loose a genuinely loud laugh which was not usual for the auburn haired man. Stoick had been glad to see his son seem to relax as he spoke to the North Isles’s heir. It had been a long time since Stoick had seen his son like that. But the question with Jack teaching them was what did they want in return.

       “And what could Berk trade in return?” Stoick asked. 

      “You don’t have to trade anything.” North assured. “Think of it as our apology for how we treated the riders in the beginning.”

Stoick shook his head. “I cannot accept that. From what I’ve been told you’ve been more than hospitable so we’ll give you something in exchange.”

Toothiana and North also gave a look to each other.

      “There is one thing we could think of as long as it’s not asking too much of you.” Toothiana explained to Stoick.

Stoick motioned for her to continue.

      “Should the need ever arise in the future should the Isles ever become too dangerous for our children Jack and Mary we ask that you would house them in Berk.” Toothiana requested. “We understand that we’re asking for a lot, but please understand why we ask this.”

       “Which is what reason?” Stoick questioned.

      “Jack, like the rest of us, has magic and he has powerful magic at that. He’s been hunted for it much like we have in the past. But should any of our old enemies come knocking on our doors again their first target will be Jack.” North explained solemnly. “I ask not just as another chief, but also from one father to another.”

Stoick could understand where they were coming from. It wouldn’t be the worst thing. But from what Stoick could see of Jack’s and Hiccup’s friendship it was one that could grow into a strong bond. A friendship where one would always watch the other’s back and trust one another with their life: Because of that Stoick knew his decision was made.

Stoick smiled. “Your children will always be welcome to Berk as long as we’re allies we will welcome yours to our shores.”

North smiled as well as the two chiefs shook hands. “We will discuss things further as we have much to offer and learn from each other.”

Stoick nodded as he looked over at Hiccup. “Hiccup, why don’t you go catch up with that friend of yours?”

Hiccup startled at his father addressing him. “Uh, you sure?”

Stoick nodded. “Of course. We’re almost done here.”

Gobber grinned at the auburn haired man. “Go on an’ git out of here.”

Hiccup, not needing to be told a third time, nodded and bid his thanks and goodbyes before leaving. As soon as he exited he saw Jack sitting on top of a stool as if waiting. Jack turned his head when he heard the snow crunch under Hiccup’s foot and grinned. 

       “Ready to blow this popsicle stand?” The pale teen asked jokingly.

Hiccup chuckled. “Don’t you know it.”

Jack hopped onto his feet and waved the freckled man to follow him. “Come on freckles. We have dragons to fly.”

Hiccup sped up his pace until he was shoulder to shoulder with Jack. He placed his hand on the smaller man’s shoulder making Jack stop walking and turn to the other puzzled. Hiccup didn’t want to pry, but ever since Jack had stormed out from North’s workshop the day prior it was as if the pale teen had a weight on his shoulders.

      “I know there are some things you can’t tell me, but know that what you can tell me that I’m here to listen. I don’t know what you guys talked about yesterday, but I can guess it wasn’t anything good.” Hiccup said tentatively hoping he wasn’t overstepping.

Jack let out a long suffering sigh. “They talked about the possibility of sending me to Berk. But not to visit. I can’t tell you what’s going on. But I promise I’m fine, just upset that the others thought it was okay to make decisions for me.”

Hiccup looked apologetic. “I’m sorry. Do you not want to come to Berk and see more of what’s out there?”

Jack let out a long exasperated sigh. “That’s not it! I would love to come and see Berk and all the places you’ve told me about. It’s just the reason why they would send me there are not good reasons. Which is what makes this whole thing suck even more!”

Hiccup let out a quiet relieved breath. “Well, whatever it may be, you have me and the other riders. Remember that Jack. Whatever it is, you don’t have to face it alone.”

Jack gave the auburn haired man a grateful smile. “Thanks. I really appreciate it.”

Hiccup shrugged. “That’s what friends are for Jack. We help each other and as dragon riders we protect our own. That includes you.”

Jack blinked astonished before his lips curved into a dazzling smile filled with joy. Hiccup couldn’t help but return the smile as Jack’s joy was infectious. Come hell or high water he would make sure Jack wouldn’t have to face anything alone. He may not know the full story of Jack’s past, but he knows enough to know the smaller man tries to shoulder everything himself and isn’t the type to easily ask for help. 

      “How much longer do you think they’ll be in there for?” Jack questioned as they strode through the village.

Hiccup shrugged. “Depends on if Gobber decides to regale them with any of his stories. If he does that it could be a while.”

Jack laughed in mirth. “Aster would hate every minute of that.”

Hiccup chuckled as he could see the older man would not be amused. “My dad will be heading back to Berk afterwards and we’ll stay here for a few more days before we have to return.”

Jack’s smile fell as he tried not to look forlorn at the news. “Oh.”

Hiccup scrambled to try to reassure the other. “But hopefully you’ll be coming to Berk not too soon afterwards. But remember we also have terror mail or portal mail.”

Jack looked at the other quizzically. “Portal mail?”

Hiccup shrugged. “It’s what I’m calling mail that you guys send through the portal.”

Jack covered his mouth with his hand as he chuckled in amusement. “I guess that’s one word for it.”

Hiccup smiled in return, glad to see Jack smiling again. “I’ll just be a dragon away or in your case a portal away.”

Jack nodded, grinning. “Yeah, I’ll definitely be coming to Berk. You’ll have to show me all the good spots.”

      “Don’t worry Toothless and I will be sure to give you the grand tour of Berk.” 

      “What is Berk like anyways?”

      “It’s twelve days north of hopeless, and a few degrees south of freezing to death. It’s located solidly on the Meridian of Misery.” Hiccup told the other, causing Jack to laugh.

Hiccup smiled watching as Jack chortled out laughing at Hiccup’s explanation of his village. Hiccup really couldn't help it. He joined in Jack’s infectious laughter. He hoped Jack came to enjoy Berk when he got there. He couldn’t wait to show the teen his home.

On a ship out at sea in the dead of night screams filled the otherwise peaceful night on the ocean. Men ran or were dropping overboard. Fear and terror filled the air. It was so crisp one could practically taste it. Creatures made of dark sand circled the ship as they attacked the sailors. Their shapes often changed form to that of what the sailors feared most. One of the sailors fell to the deck as he scrambled to get away from the creature shaped like a dragon behind him. He scrambled back backing up and until his back bumped into something solid. When he looked up he saw a man with glossy black hair slicked back and gold eyes. He had pale skin and he was tall with a lean build. He was wearing black pants, a black long sleeve tunic underneath a fur lined black coat made of black fur, and leather boots. He had black coated arm bracers covering his forearms and black plated armor covering his chest. He had an unkind smile on his lips as he gazed down at the man.

      “My apologies sailor, but unfortunately for you I need your fear, they need my nightmares.” The man said as he threw the man overboard listening to his terrified screams as the creature which were nightmares around grew stronger and stronger the more fear permeated the air. 

He turned back to the nightmare shaped like a horse. He mounted it as he entered the shadows and exited out of them and found he was back on land.

       “Time to return.” The man spoke as the nightmare he rode raced off.

He kept going until he came to a cave and he entered through the series of different tunnels until he came to a dark room filled with shadows sat a small clear crystal ball. It was the only light other than the light from the moon coming in from the hole in the ceiling. The man paced back and forth as he peered into the crystal ball. It showed North with Toothiana and Aster as they were in heavy discussion. The scene then changed to Sandy as he sat with dragon riders around sharing a drink with a pair of rowdy twins and Mary who laughed happily. Then the scene changed once again, this time it showed the youth with white hair as he flew on the back of the light fury he was so fond of. But he wasn’t alone. With him was an auburn haired viking flying on the back on a night fury. The man peering into the crystal ball frowned. Jack has been shown more and more with this viking. The man chuckled but it was not in delight.

      “Enjoy yourselves and your happiness dear guardians. I’m coming to take something that doesn’t belong to you anymore after all. Or at least it won’t belong to you for much longer.” The man spoke to the crystal ball before pausing and looking to the moon. “What? You saw this outcome didn’t you? After all Jack may have been a child when he last met me, but that doesn’t negate the promise after all. His power would have a better use elsewhere. Wouldn’t you agree? After all you’re the one that abandoned him after bestowing him with his powers.”

The man smirked as he turned back to the crystal ball before watching the scene fade away. 

      “I’ll be sure to return the favor to them and take everything they care about.” The man said as he turned and disappeared back into a swirl of darkness. 

There was silence left behind. Just nightmares swirling around in the shadows. The North Isles was peaceful in the distance, but that wouldn’t last forever. There was a storm coming to the north and the guardians didn’t even know what was in store that was coming their way. The only thing the guardians knew for certain was a storm was brewing. Come what may the man would make certain they were not as prepared as they thought they were for what was to come.

Chapter Text

Luna laid on her perch from inside the workshop as she gazed below at Hiccup and Jack. The auburn haired viking was rambling on to Jack about ideas of inventions he was working on back at Berk. Jack sat next to him nodding along as Hiccup drew his ideas on paper to show Jack. The snow haired man grinned when he understood and would reply with his own idea of what could be added. The two were in deep conversation. The light fury looked over from across her perch where Toothless sat. He gave a gum filled smile as he warbled at the light fury who just huffed in return. She supposed the night fury wasn’t that bad. His rider liked Jack and was kind enough to her rider. She still didn’t entirely trust them though even if Hiccup did save Jack. Toothless have another soft tentative warble and Luna replied with one of her own. She paused when she heard the conversation below halt and looked down to see the two riders gazing up above at their dragons. Jack had a mischievous teasing grin on his face.

      “Luna, are you flirting?!” Jack asked in a dramatic yet teasing manner. “Hiccup they’re flirting! Next thing you know they’ll be happily mated and forget about us!”

Luna rolled her eyes huffing as steam rolled up from her nose. Hiccup covered his mouth to keep from laughing at Jack’s theatretics. The auburn haired man shook his head. Luna gave a scowl at her rider making the young man chuckle. 

      “Alright, alright. I’ll stop teasing. Wouldn’t want to embarrass you in front of your boyfriend.” Jack said with a grin still on his lips. 

Luna made an affronted dragonic noise as she hissed causing Jack to burst out laughing. Hiccup chuckled as he looked over at Toothless who’s head perked up as he gave his rider a gum filled smile. The auburn haired male then looked over at Luna who grumbled as she settled back down on her perch giving her rider a small glare. Hiccup rested his chin in a hand as his gaze turned back to the pale teen. Jack pulled his gaze away from the dragons as well and blue locked with green as their eyes met. 

      “So you guys leave tomorrow, right?” Jack asked the mirth, leaving his demeanor. 

Hiccup frowned seeing the joy leave from Jack. “Yeah, but you’ll be coming to Berk soon, right?”

A small smile returned to Jack’s face as he nodded in affirmation. “Yeah, just gotta get some things in order. I should be there in a couple days after you guys depart. Just gotta make sure everything I need is packed and sit and listen to whatever ground rules North and Tooth lay down for me.”

Jack rolled his eyes at the thought. He could already practically hear them telling him to limit his magic use around strangers and about not being reckless or getting himself into dangerous situations. It had already been three days since the meeting between North and Stoick. They had finalized everything down and signed a treaty that named the Hairy Hooligan tribe and the Santoff Claussen tribe allies. Jack was told he’d be going there to teach the people about their magic within reason. Jack already knew not to teach them about the sacred stuff. The snow haired man wasn’t exactly happy to hear he was getting sent to Berk. Don’t get him wrong, normally he’d be excited, but he has a feeling it had to do with why North called them all that day. Of course Jack doesn’t really know much about that since they’ve been keeping as tight lipped about it as possible when around Jack. It was frustrating as all they would say it was better he stayed out of it. He rolled his eyes at the memory of it. As excited as he was to finally travel outside of the North Isles it was overshadowed by a bad feeling that something was wrong and he didn’t know what. Jack was jolted out of his memory when he felt a hand on his shoulder. He looked over to see Hiccup with a worried expression on his face.

      “Are you sure you’re okay with coming to Berk?” The auburn man asked.

Jack smiled at the other in felicity. “And miss seeing all the spots you destroyed growing up? Not a chance!”

Hiccup looked at the other embarrassed at his words. “I see Gobber told you some of the stories from my teen years.”

Jack grinned in absolute delight. “Oh, did he ever. Man and I thought I was bad. You definitely had me beat.”

Hiccup shook his head. “I doubt that. I heard you caused a blizzard during a particularly important holiday for Aster.”

Jack huffed in indignation. “You accidentally start a blizzard one time and no one lets you live it down!”

Hiccup laughed hearing the other’s affronted words.

Jack looked at the other as Hiccup laughed. The man’s whole face practically lit up when he laughed unrestrained like that. Jack leaned back a bit as his eyes flitted back up to Luna and Toothless. The dragons both gazed at each other. Toothless seemed downtrodden at having to leave and Luna didn’t look too happy about the prospect in her own way. 

      “You can always count on Luna and I visiting. After all, meeting you and Toothless is pretty important to us. Not just for the obvious reasons, but well… heh whether you like it or not you became my friend, too. You really are persistent after all.” Jack said with a small chuckle.

Hiccup was surprised to hear the other voice that they were indeed friends. Sure Hiccup considered Jack a friend, but it was the first time Jack had voiced feeling the same.

      “Oh? You mean we finally wore you down?” Hiccup teased the smaller man with a smile upon his face.

      “More or less.” Jack said with a grin of his own. “Well, enough of that. I believe I owe Fishlegs a discussion about Luna since he pulled himself out of the books long enough to want to compare information about Toothless and Luna.”

      “He finally got around to catching you on that, did he?” Hiccup asked as he and Jack both stood.

Both of the furies slunk down from the perches they were lounging on to join their riders. Luna purred as Jack ran his finger along the top of her head. Toothless much doing the same with Hiccup as the auburn haired man scratched along the night fury’s ear plates. 

      “Well, let’s go find Fishlegs.” Hiccup said as he gestured for Jack to go first.

Jack grinned as he kicked up his staff from where it rested against a wall slinging it across his shoulders as he exited the room with Hiccup and their dragons following closely behind.

Glass broke as a glass mug was thrown across the room only to shatter against the wall. The liquid contents of the mug spilled everywhere. North huffed as he gazed over at Aster who was the one responsible for throwing the mug. Frustrated was an understatement for how Aster felt at the moment. They have searched high and low and even went to Nightmare Island and they still have found no traces of Pitch. Not so much as even a trace left behind. It was as if he didn’t exist. Gone without a trace in the wind. It made Aster restless. He did not like having these kinds of odds. Pitch had a grudge he held against them and Aster held one of his own not just for what Pitch did to his people, but for what happened to Nightlight. Aster refused to go through a repeat of that. Toothiana fidgeted as some of her small fairies flitted around with her. The fairies looked similar to little hummingbirds. They wore green, blue, and purple feathers with their wings being translucent. Toothiana lately has been spending more time away from her palace and with this it made the woman nervous. Who could blame her? With Pitch out on the loose it made all of them nervous. What was his game plan? His next move? What in blazes did he want other than the bloody obvious?! 

North sighed as he looked at the broken mug as it was cleaned up. “Aster…”

Aster scowled at the other man. “Don’t Aster me! It’s been almost half a week and we still haven’t found the bogan anywhere!”

Sandy looked between the guardians as he left he looked at the map before them all with a contemplative look upon his face. Toothiana spoke hurriedly to her fairies as she herself also looked at the map. North let out a long sigh as he looked around the room. 

      “I know he’s out there. He’s planning something.” North said with a huff as he felt an oncoming headache.

      “But what?! What is he bloody planning other than the obvious?! We can’t go in blind this time North. There’s too much to lose this time around!” Aster said voice getting louder and louder with each word he spoke.

      “You think I don’t know that?!” North yelled as the sound of the stool scraped on the floor as he stood abruptly. “We lost too much last time! But I cannot sit idle as he threatens us and everything we stand for again!”

Toothiana stepped forth as she shifted her gaze between the two men. “We have to stick together this time. We were scattered last time which is what allowed him to nearly beat us the last time we faced him. But we also can’t be fighting amongst ourselves. That would just be playing right into his hands. He wants us divided to make us easier to pick off. We’re better than this.”

North sat down heavily with a sigh. “Ana is right.”

Aster let out a long suffering sigh of his own. “You’re right. I just… I’m worried, okay?!”

Sandy reached over and patted Aster’s arm in reassurance. The small man knew Aster was worried about Jack. They all were. Jack would be leaving in three days and it would be the first time in a long time that he would be away from the guardians' watchful gazes. None of them knew how to feel about it other than being anxious. Trouble always seemed to follow Jack whether he went looking for it or not it always found him. 

       “I know we all are. But the best we can do now is keep an eye out. It’s clear the more we look the harder Pitch is making this for us.” North said, rubbing his chin thoughtfully.

A question mark made of gold sand appeared above Sandy’s head.

       “Yeah, what do you suggest then?” Aster asked the question Sandy had asked as well.

      “Well, we’ll have to wait for Pitch to make his move. This time we just make sure we’re prepared for him.” North said disgruntled as he himself didn’t like the plan.

It was however the best they had at the moment for someone as slippery and cunning as Pitch. Aster let out a loud exhale dissatisfied with that plan. Out of everyone Aster was always someone that planned and took action. His hatred for Pitch was also notorious. So having to just wait for Pitch to make his move probably killed him as much as it did North.

      “When he finally shows his face we’ll be ready this time.” Aster agreed with determination.

It was the only thing they could do was prepare and make sure they were ready this time. How ready they would be is what they would find out when that time came.

Fishlegs was scribbling down information as he looked back up to Jack. They were inside the dragon stables sitting on a stool or in Jack’s case on top of a barrel. He had been asking about information on Luna like her wingspan and what she could all do. Jack had revealed that like Toothless Luna had retractable teeth. That got into a deeper conversation about how she could camouflage herself using her plasma blasts. Jack had revealed because of that he had an armour made of Luna’s shed scales so that way he wouldn’t be barbecued when he was flying with her when she did that. Hiccup got excited when hearing that so he and Jack were bouncing ideas off each other then.Which they then turned around to the usual specs Fishlegs wanted to know. 

      “Toothless has an attack of fifteen and speed of twenty. What about Luna?” Fishlegs asked the other boy.

      “Yeah, pretty much the same.” Jack said with a shrug.

      “Armor eighteen? Firepower fourteen?” Fishlegs questions.

Jack nodded again. “Yes to both.”

Hiccup made a thoughtful sound. “Does she have a shot limit?”

Jack nodded again. “Yeah, six.”

Hiccup nodded back. “The same with Toothless. Sounds like their specs are the same huh bud?”

Toothless crooned in pride. Luna looked very pleased with herself as she purred in satisfaction. Jack chuckled at the two furies. He reached over and ran his fingers over Luna’s smooth scales. 

      “They’re just amazing.” Jack breathed with a wonderstruck smile upon his face.

      “Yeah, they are.” Hiccup agreed as he patted Toothless’s head.

The night fury crooned at his rider as he then looked over to gaze at the light fury and her rider. Fishlegs finished writing down all the information and smiled as he looked at his two friends with their dragons. Fishlegs was glad Jack would be coming to Berk so he could see all the places they had told him about. Fishlegs thought about showing him the book of dragons and comparing what they knew and maybe adding in any dragons Jack knew about that they may not have in the book of dragons. Well, he’d have to show Jack both of them. He could only imagine Jack’s face when he would see the original one. Jack had been horrified when he learned their tribe used to fight and kill dragons and vice versa. He had practically hugged Luna around her neck in horror as he looked at the Berkians when they told him about Berk’s bloody history with the dragons. The twins had made more and more outlandish stories of it thanks to that response. Needless to say Jack berated them for how could they try to harm such beautiful and amazing creatures as the dragons? Hiccup had to hide a smile behind his hand as Jack admonished all of them. Jack had especially done that to Hiccup when the topic of Toothless’s tailfin came up. Jack had apologized afterwards in embarrassment feeling he may have overstepped. Hiccup had waved off the apology with ease assuring the smaller man that none of them thought anything of it. Jack was still unsure, but took the freckled man’s word for it. Fishlegs was brought out of his thoughts when he heard Hiccup’s voice.

      “Alright, alright. You overgrown lizard, I get it.” The auburn haired man said as Toothless kept insistently nudging his side with his snout.

Jack chuckled as Luna was tugging on Jack’s cloak, careful not to snag the threads on her teeth. “I think they’re ready to go flying.”

      “So it would seem.” Hiccup said as he sighed exasperated watching Jack slide off of the barrel he had previously been occupying. “Well, Fishlegs looks like this is where we leave before these two decide to rebel against us.”

Fishlegs chuckled as he waved them off. “Don’t worry about it. Have a good flight. I’ll see you guys later.”

Hiccup nodded as he was then nudged more violently as the night fury warbled at his rider. “Okay already! You spoiled reptile!”

Jack laughed as they exited the dragon stables and made sure their dragons had their saddles strapped securely to them before climbing onto the furies’ backs. The dragons warbled in delight as they crouched down before leaping into the air and taking off climbing higher and higher into the sky. Jack whooped as they shot threw the air as they ascended up to the clouds. Luna barrel rolled in the air as they ascended until leveling out. Toothless looped in the air going upside down momentarily before also leveling out. Jack and Hiccup both locked eyes as they shared a smile before both furies shot forward weaving around each other as their speed grew with momentum. Luna looped upside down and Jack let go of her saddle diving down into the air in a freefall before being caught by Luna. Jack cackled in delight.

Hiccup shook his head. “Show off.”

Luna glided next to Toothless. “Excuse me?! You can do better?”

Jack had heard Hiccup’s words and decided a little playful jabbing wouldn’t hurt.

Hiccup grinned as he pulled his helmet over his head. “Just watch me!”

Toothless and he looped around barrel rolling and looping upside down.

      “Alright bud, ready to test it out again?”

Toothless grumbled at the question. 

      “It’ll be fine!” Hiccup assured the night fury as he shifted the pedal so Toothless would be able to do some solo gliding.

Hiccup sat up as he made sure everything was ready for what he was about to do.

      “Ready?” He asked the night fury as he leaned over and slid off of Toothless as he freefalled in the sky.

Toothless followed after his rider tucking his wings in as he freefalled with him. Hiccup whooped in delight. 

      “Yeah baby!” He shouted in joy.

He turned his body so he was facing below and pulled a strap near his leg as it opened up his flight suit allowing the wind to catch it as Toothless opened up his wings allowing the wind to catch so they were gliding together. Hiccup tapped an area on his chest as the fin on his back popped up. Every now and then Toothless shot a plasma blast allowing Hiccup to glide higher when he would start to lose altitude. He laughed in glee and whooped as he glided a little further ahead of the night fury. He looked over when Luna glided over beside them. Jack sat sideways with his legs crossed on her saddle, an elbow propped on a knee as his chin rested on the palm of a hand. A grinned dancing on his pale lips as mirth danced in his blue eyes.

      “Okay, I’m impressed.” The pale teen admitted with the grin staying in place on his face. “Did you make the flight suit?”

      “Of course I did!” Hiccup replied as he turned his gaze back ahead of him as he had gotten ahead of Toothless and Luna.

Hiccup saw a mountain incoming as he was heading straight towards the rocky snow covered side of the mountain.

      “Oh, no! Not good. Toothless!” The auburn haired man called in worry to his dragon. 

The night fury tried flapped his wings hurriedly to try to get to his rider at the same time Jack righted himself in Luna’s saddle as she shot forward just as Toothless let a plasma blast to blast the rocks ahead as he caught his rider. The two then tumbled down the mountain just missing the trees by a hair as snow kicked up as they tumbled and fell. Jack winced watching as the two fell down the mountain side until they finally came to a stop where the trees opened to a cliffside. Luna glided down landing just as Hiccup switched his peg leg and started to tuck the fabric of his flight suit back where it was supposed to be and redid the spring coil that put the fin on his back away as well. Jack slid off of Luna just as Toothless grumbled indignantly.

      “That was close.” Hiccup said as he and the night fury turned back to see the hole that was blasted in the side of the mountain.

 Luna trotted over to the night fury and bumped against his side making sure he was okay. Toothless looked over at the light fury in happiness he bumped back against her to assure her he was fine. Jack walked over to Hiccup and smacked his hand against his chest causing the fin to pop back out.

      “Ow!” Hiccup exclaimed, rubbing where he was hit. “What was that for?”

      “Because you’re an idiot.” Jack said then grinned at the taller man as he put the fin away again. 

      “Be careful, the calibration is very sensitive.” Hiccup warned the smaller man as he turned the little nob on his chest to put the fin away again. 

Jack shook his head in fond exasperation. “Come on the flight is not over yet even if you are dumb.”

Hiccup blinked before mock gasping in offense. “Me? Dumb coming from the one that jumps off the backs of dragons?” 

      “I’m not the one that just crash landed into the side of a mountain.” Jack shot back with a smug smile as he walked over to the furies with Hiccup following behind.

Once in range Luna huffed at Hiccup and smacked him in the back of the head with her tail. 

     “Gah!” Hiccup exclaimed, not expecting that. 

Jack covered his mouth trying to stifle his laugh as Toothless was definitely laughing at his rider. 

      “I think Luna just got payback for Toothless.” The snow haired man said with a chuckle as he climbed back onto the light fury.

      “Yeah, I probably deserved that.” Hiccup said bashfully as he also climbed onto Toothless, readjusting everything so he could manually fly with the controls of the prosthetic tailfin again.

The two furies crouched down before shooting up into the sky once again ascending towards the clouds. The two furies weaved around each other at a languid pace as they enjoyed flying with their riders. Luna flew above Toothless and twisted so she was upside down with a grinning Jack holding on to her saddle as he was mere feet from Hiccup who grinned back at Jack. Luna righted herself as her cackling rider swayed with the movement. Hiccup stared transfixed as he watched how Jack’s whole face lit up with his laughter. He was startled out of it when he felt Toothless whack him with one of his ear plates. Hiccup looked down at the night fury with a roll of his eyes as Toothless grumbled at his rider.

      “Hush.” Hiccup said to the grumbling dragon patting his head. “So wanna try the island over?”

      “Hiccup are you trying to get me to break one of the rules that North put in place?” Jack asked, gasping dramatically. “Who knew you could be such a rebel.” 

Hiccup huffed in amusement. “We will only get in trouble if we get caught.”

       “I like the way you think! Let’s do it!” Jack exclaimed excitedly as Luna shot forward with Toothless following behind.

Toothiana watched as North gazed at the world map. Aster was in the corner huffing about one thing or another. Sandy was sipping at some tea he procured earlier. She had seen that Jack and Hiccup had taken off for a flight with Toothless and Luna earlier. She had seen Mary was in the village playing with some of her friends. The other dragon riders, well they all usually kept themselves busy. Especially that pair of twins. Jack seemed to know how to keep that pair occupied and as of recently Snotlout as well. She smiled thinking about all the little ice slides as Jack liked to call them he left underfoot for Snotlout. She’s pretty sure she also saw Snotlout’s axe iced to Barf and Belch’s hide. The hideous zippleback seemed to enjoy the ice. Snotlout had been chasing the dragon down to retrieve the axe while the twins ran after the other viking yelling about destroying Snotlout should he touch their dragon. Jack has taken an interest in prancing the riders. Which in Jack’s language meant he liked you. She even saw him prank Hiccup a time or two. Jack had taken to hanging upside down as he flipped through one of the auburn man’s journal while Hiccup tried to retrieve said journal only to be given the run around by Jack himself who laughed merrily before relinquishing the journal to the other man. There was also the time Jack took Hiccup’s spare prosthetic leg and switched it out for Fishlegs’s helmet. Fishlegs had been looking for his helmet and both men had been very confused leaving a very amused Jack. Toothiana stood from where she sat, gaining the attention of the other guardians. She gave a small smile waving them off.

      “I’m going to check in on Mary. Maybe see about cooking something while I’m at it.” She said as she pressed a kiss to North’s cheek as she continued her way out the door.

Before slipping out the door to outside she slid on a brown cloak to help her stay warm. When she stepped outside she was hit in the face with the cold biting wind. She let out a soft breath as she continued onwards in search of Mary whom she knew was playing with some of the village children. She heard the laughter of children the closer to the village center she got. She smiled warmly hearing the sound. It was a sound she would never get tired of hearing. She saw Mary along with a few other children adding the finishing touches of the snowmen they made. 

      “Mary!” Toothiana called to the young girl who turned and smiled.

      “Tooth!” Mary called back excitedly before bidding her friends farewell and running over to Toothiana.

      “How are you sweet tooth?” Toothiana asked the girl as the two left hand in hand traversing deeper into the village towards their home.

      “Good! We made snowmen today! Jack said he might be going to Berk in a couple days. Is that true?” Mary inquired.

Toothiana paused then nodded. “That he is. He’s going to teach the people of Berk about magic like how we’ve taught Hiccup and the others about it.”

Mary nodded in understanding. “Can I go with Jack? I promise not to get in his way, but the last time he went away for a long time…”

Toothiana was saddened hearing Mary’s words trail off. She remembered. The last time Jack was apart for so many days was during Jack’s incident at Nightmare Island. He’d nearly died. Jack had been bedridden for days as they had all worried for him. They had worried if he would ever wake up. 

      “I’m sure Jack would love it if you went with him. Maybe you could make some friends while you’re there.” Toothiana said with a small smile.

She would always give her children what they asked for. After all neither Mary nor Jack ever asked for much. For Jack it was even worse when they had first taken them in. Jack had kept to himself caring for Mary and kept quiet, afraid of making the wrong move. She’s glad he eventually came out of that.

      “Really?” Mary asked excitedly. 

Toothiana nodded in affirmation. “But of course. Someone has to keep an eye out on Jack.”

The two both shared a grin with each other at Toothiana’s teasing yet somewhat true words. Luna didn’t really fully count as she sometimes got into trouble with the snow haired teen. But at least Hiccup would be there as well. She knows without a doubt Hiccup and the other riders would keep Jack from getting into too much trouble.

Mary skipped alongside Toothiana as they entered their home. “I can’t wait to tell Jack! He’ll be so excited.”

Toothiana chuckled at the young girl’s words. “How about we keep it our little secret to surprise him, hm?”

Mary laughed. “You don’t think he’ll catch on?”

Toothiana shook her head. “Not if we’re sneaky enough.”

      “What do you think Berk I’d like?” Mary asked curiously.

      “From the stories Hiccup has told your brother it’s warmer than it is here and teeming with dragons. There’s dragons everywhere of all kinds. I’m sure Jack and Hiccup would love to tell you all about it.” Toothiana assured the young girl.

      “I can’t wait!” Mary exclaimed in excitement.

Toothiana chuckled as the young girl’s excitement was infectious. “Now then want to help me find some ingredients to drop off to Greta and the other ladies cooking tonight?”

Mary bobbed her head in agreement as she raced to the kitchen. Toothiana chuckled at her adopted daughter’s excitement. She hoped they would be ready for what was to come. She didn’t want either of her children she so adored to be harmed. She helped raise them both. Mary was able to adapt more easily since she was so young when their mother passed away. Mary only is able to remember her thanks to Jack. It has been more lively in their house since taking in both Jack and Mary. Toothiana wouldn’t trade it for the world. Which is why she hopes they’re making the right decision and that both youths will be safe.

Fishlegs sat next to Meatlug who was happily eating the crate of rocks she was given to munch on in the dragon stables. Her rider was deeply invested in reading a book he found in the back most further part of the library. He frowned as his eyes scanned over each page as he digested the words he read. He did not like the things he found detailed in the book. It was worrying to say the least.

      “Hey, Fishlegs!” 

      “AHH!” Fishlegs startled screaming as Astrid dropped down beside him. 

The shield maiden raised an eyebrow at the man who heaved trying to catch his breath from the fright. There was snickering heard as Snotlout along with the Thorston twins entered the stables as well.

       “What’s got your helmet in a twist?” Snotlout asked as he stepped over to the two sitting.

       “I was just reading up. I found a book tucked away in the far corner of the library about the Nightmare King.” Fishlegs explained. 

       “Well, that’s a bit suspicious. Why would it be tucked away in a place most people wouldn’t look?” Astrid wondered.

      “Clearly because they are hiding something!” Tuffnut exclaimed.

      “What would they be hiding?” Fishlegs wondered aloud.

       “I mean they made Jack hide his powers. So what can’t they hide?” Ruffnut pointed out.

       “Huh. I can’t believe I’m about to say this, but they have a point.” Snotlout said, agreeing with the twins.

       “When you put it like that it does seem suspicious. So what have you read about this Nightmare King so far?” Astrid asked Fishlegs. 

All eyes turned to the blonde man causing him to shift where he sat. He was nervous as he looked between his friends and the book in his hands.

       “Well, the part of the Nightmare King being someone from their tribe was true. Jack and the others all confirmed that. But it doesn’t say much about who he actually is outside of just someone bent on destruction.”

       “Not even a name?” Ruffnut asked.

Fishlegs shook his head. “Just the things he’s done. There’s a lot of information on what he’s done, but not on what led up to this guy becoming the Nightmare King. It’s like someone took everything evil and stuffed it into a single person.”

      “Well, this Nightmare King doesn’t scare me!” Tuffnut proclaimed with bravado. 

Snotlout rolled his eyes. “This tribe sure keeps good records. Like obsessively good. Like better than you and Hiccup good.”

Fishlegs nodded ignoring the comment about him and Hiccup.  “I asked North about it. He said it’s so nothing is forgotten and to ensure they don’t make the same mistakes again.”

Snotlout raised an eyebrow. “What? Afraid they’ll forget?! How old are these people?!”

Fishlegs opened his mouth to answer then paused. “Actually that’s a good question.”

Snotlout grinned. “Obviously.”

       “Ugh! Knock it off!” Astrid said with annoyance. “So we knew about this guy, but no one talks about him?”

Fishlegs nodded. “Jack told me it was like an unspoken taboo subject. The Guardians don’t like to talk about him since he was someone once close to them.”

       “Sounds like a case of betrayal.” Ruffnut said.

       “Indeed dear sister. Someone stabbed them in the back.” Tuffnut agreed.

      “Would you two knock it off?!” Astrid yelled, rubbing her temples. 

       “Well, whoever this Nightmare King guy is, I'm not afraid of him. I’ll send him back to wherever he came from if he ever tries to mess with us.” Snotlout said with a self assured and cocky smirk.

       “Yeah! I’ll scare him with my face!” Tuffnut agreed joining in with Snotlout.

Ruffnut cackled while Astrid just groaned in dismay that the three idiots were just going to egg each other on. 

      “Where is our so-called fearless leader anyways?” Ruffnut inquired.

Astrid shrugged. “Where do you think? Where he usually is at when he’s not able to be found. He’s off flying with Jack and probably getting pulled into whatever trouble Jack can come up with.”

Astrid may not seem it but actually enjoyed Jack. Her and Jack had a few talks. She also invited him to come spar with them should he wish to join them. He had shrugged and with a grin said he’d think about it. She also came to find that while a mischief maker Jack also had a serious side. He didn’t show it often, but it was there. She appreciated that Jack knew when to put the childish glee away and when to pull out the serious tactician. The snow haired teen was as sharp as a whip. He just feigned ignorance a lot. It would drive Astrid crazy at times. It really was no wonder Jack and Hiccup became as thick as thieves so quickly. It was also nice that someone was able to keep the twins busy. Though that didn’t stop them from destroying things. They nearly blew up a few stands in the village. After that Jack decided to take them to the ship graveyard they had near one of the islands from past malicious invaders and let them have at blowing up the wrecked ships.

Fishlegs let a soft smile out. “Well, we are leaving soon. And Jack won’t be coming to Berk for another couple days or so.”

       “Man it will be nice to be back on Berk where it’s a little warmer.” Snotlout said with a huff. “I’m getting sick of feeling like I’m freezing my toes off.”

       “Or other parts.” Tuffnut agreed.

      “You’re so gross.” Ruffnut said, smacking her brother who let out an affronted noise.

Astrid shook her head, but quietly agreed. It would be nice to be back home. As nice as it has been here it would be great to be back home where she can sleep in her own bed again. 

Fishlegs seemed to mirror her feelings. “As much as I’ll miss it here, it will be so nice to sleep in my own bed again and see everyone.”

       “And it will be our turn to show Jack some good old Berkian hospitality.” Astrid said with a smile.

      “Oh, yeah!” Tuffnut cheered with a glint in his eyes.

       “Not whatever you’re planning!” Astrid said with a glare.

       “Awe!” Tuffnut sighed in dismay.

       “It would be nice to show Jack around. Maybe he’d be interested in seeing the Book of Dragons.” Fishlegs said thoughtfully as the thought did occur to him before.

      “I’m sure he’d like that.” Astrid said to the other.

      “Sure if you can pull him away from Hiccup.” Snotlout interjected. 

Astrid shook her head. They all were restless about returning home. Sure they would miss the North Isles as it wasn’t like any place they had been. It had all kinds of nooks and crannies hidden with magic. Defenses that kept people with bad intentions out. Tuffnut ended up stumbling into one of them that happened to be hidden inside the base of an open tree. Tuffnut had ended up chasing one of the chickens into the tree and triggered it. Needless to say he was stuck there until Snotlout found him and came running to the others for help. They ended up enlisting Jack for assistance and Jack ended up laughing so hard he was practically crying from the fact that Tuffnut got himself stuck in the tree. Jack had to use some of his magic so Tuffnut could slip out. Jack still laughs about it even now whenever it’s brought up. But even with all of that the riders have been itching to return back home. At least they know they’ll be seeing Jack not too soon afterwards. Hiccup told them about what was decided in the meeting between Stoick and North. They were excited to show the snow haired man their home since he graciously showed them his. But it was indeed time for them to return back home to Berk to their tribe and families. 

Jack stretched as he watched the night fury and light fury bound about from where he sat at the base of a tree with Hiccup seated next to him. Hiccup was currently chuckling at the two dragons. Toothless would hop around and it seemed like he and Luna were playing. She would instigate the night fury to chase her and sometimes the other way around. Jack chuckled as Luna managed to pin Toothless down before quickly slinking away. Toothless quickly got back up and gave chase to the light fury. Jack leaned close to Hiccup with a wide grin.

       “Well, I’d say Toothless is getting into Luna’s good graces.” Jack whispered conspiratorially to the other man.

Hiccup shared an amused smile with the smaller man. “You think so?”

       “I know so. Luna doesn’t usually warm up that fast to others, but I’m glad she got to meet Toothless.” Jack said, his expression turning soft. 

Hiccup couldn’t help his expression, also softening as the two gazed at the two furies. The auburn haired man felt like he was turning sappy with his emotions turning warm. He had looked high and low for another night fury, but was never able to find a single trace of them. Now after he met Jack and Luna he’s hopeful that they will find another night fury out there somewhere. Hiccup came out of his thoughts when Jack burst into a fit of laughter as Toothless finally managed to pin the light fury down before releasing her. The light fury looked annoyed over at her cackling rider and huffed at him. 

      “Oh, man! It’s about time another dragon finally managed to do that.” Jack said in between chuckles.

The light fury let out another huff before sticking her nose in the air and trotting away after the night fury. Hiccup shook his head in fond amusement at the other man. He looked up at the sky and let out a quiet sigh. 

      “You know I think I’m actually going to miss this place.” Hiccup admitted to the other.

Jack let out a thoughtful hum as his eyes locked with Hiccups. “Really? Cold weather and all? You’re gonna miss the place, it's so cold you’ll catch your death here?”

Hiccup chuckled at Jack’s description. “Well, yeah. It’s so different here and there’s still more to discover here. It’s like you guys have a whole world inside this little frozen part of the world you guys keep hidden.”

Jack nodded. “Heh. Yeah, I suppose we do.”

Hiccup gazed over at Jack and blue met green when their gazes locked. Jack tilted his head as if he was in thought before his eyes slid up to the sky. 

       “We should probably start heading back.” Jack said with a soft sigh.

       “Yeah, we probably should.” Hiccup agreed but neither man went to get up.

Jack gave a soft smile as their dragons came trotting back over to them. “Alright, let’s start heading back.”

Jack grabbed his staff as he got up to his feet. He held his hand out and Hiccup placed his hand in Jack’s as the snow haired teen pulled the auburn haired man to his feet. They walked over to their approaching dragons making sure everything was in order and their saddles secured before climbing onto their respective dragons. Both furies shared a look with each other before crouching down and shooting into the air ascending up towards the clouds and into the sky. Jack laughed as he quickly grabbed onto Luna’s saddle. Hiccup ready for it had held onto Toothless’s saddle and whooped as they shot up into the air at high speeds. The two dragons shot through the sky parting clouds as they looped, barrel rolled, and glided the wind currents catching their wings. Their humans enjoyed it just as much as they did. Jack shouted in delight as he was tossed into the air only for Luna to do an upside down loop before tucking her wings in and diving as she caught her rider on her back again as she ascended towards the night fury and his rider. Hiccup leaned down closer to the saddle, almost flattening himself against Toothless as the night fury shot forward at high speeds barrel rolling as he did so. Hiccup let out his own shout of joy at the exhilaration. The light fury wasn’t too far behind her rider much like Hiccup was flush against the saddle to allow her to fly at higher speeds. The two furies leveled back out as they weaved around each other in the sky. It was peaceful in the sky, just the dragons and their riders enjoying their time in the air. At least it was until a single voice called in the distance with urgency laced in the tone of it.

       “Hiccup!”

Jack and Hiccup both shared a look of alarm.

      “Was that–”

Jack was cut off as they heard the voice again calling out from the distance.

      “Hiccup!”

The auburn man looked even more alarmed. “Come on bud!”

      “Wait! Hiccup!”

His words fell on deaf ears as Hiccup and Toothless shot out towards the voice and out away from the North Isles. Jack followed on Luna’s back not wanting to leave Hiccup behind. The pale man had a bad feeling about this. He had a very bad feeling about it. Just when Jack thought that there would be no more calls since it had been several minutes he was proven wrong.

      “Hiccup!”

      “Over there!” Hiccup said as they flew towards an island. 

The island was filled with a lush green landscape with mountains and forests covering the land below. But it was covered in darkness. Jack knew this island. It may have been a few years, but it hadn’t changed except for the darkness that seemed to have grown since he was there last. 

       “Hiccup I think we should go. This is Nightmare Island. We’re not supposed to be anywhere near here!” Jack said nervously as he gazed at the land they flew above.

      “That even more reason then. If Astrid is down there I can’t just leave here.” Hiccup said imploringly.

Jack’s lips thinned before making his decision. “Then I’m going with you. We’ll have a better chance sticking together.”

Hiccup’s lips quirked. “Thanks, Jack.”

      “Hiccup!”

The call was much closer and was coming from below the first below.

      “Let’s land. Maybe we’ll be able to find her on foot.” Jack suggested.

Hiccup nodded. “Just stay on guard.”

Jack nodded back. “You, too. I have a bad feeling so don’t you dare let your guard down.”

Hiccup didn’t like the sounds of that, but nodded in acquiescence. The two dragons tucked in their wings a bit to allow them to glide down into the forest through the trees before landing in a small clearing. The land was dark, the shadows of the trees were so dark they practically blended in together casting a darkness of night  if not for the little bit of sunlight peeking in through the leaves. Hiccup started to feel uneasy himself as he and Jack dismounted from the furies. The two men stuck close together as they made their way deeper into the forest. The dragons rumbled as their heads flicked around, keeping alert ready to take action should their human companions be in danger. Both furies felt the same unease that their riders did. There was something not right with this island and something wrong with the forest. It was like the darkness was alive shifting and moving trying to block the light out, but not being quite successful. Jack held his staff in front of him at the ready just in case. They hadn’t heard Astrid’s voice since they landed and neither man liked that. Hiccup pulled out Infero and ignited the blade so they could get more light as they stepped deeper and deeper into the forest. They kept walking in silence as Hiccup took the front and Jack guarded the rear with Luna and Toothless keeping alert on the side flanks. After walking through the forest for what felt like a while they broke the treeline exiting the forest. There was a cliff and on that cliff stood a man. He was draped in darkness and clothed in blackness and shadows. His gold eyes practically glowing as he stared at the two young men. The dragons growled hissing at the newcomer.

      “Oh, my apologies for tricking you. It was the only way I could get you here after all.” The man spoke, addressing the young men.

      “What do you mean trick? Where’s Astrid?!” Hiccup demanded not lowering his blade.

The man looked over at Hiccup in disinterest. “Not here. She was never here.”

      “Then how did we–oh, Thor!” Hiccup exclaimed in alarm as he came to the realization. “Magic…”

The man chuckled sardonically. “I suppose I shouldn’t expect an outsider who only just discovered the wonders of magic to understand. Isn’t that right Jack?”

Jack froze as he gazed at the man. Hiccup’s eyes slid over to Jack briefly before returning back to the man. 

      “You know him?” The auburn haired man asked.

      “I…don’t think so…?” Jack answered not entirely sure himself. “Do I know you? Should I know you?” 

The man draped in darkness did not look surprised. “No, I suppose you wouldn’t anymore. But you do know me Jack. You may have grown since I last saw you, but it was five years ago when you were ripped from these lands after the time we spent together here.”

Jack’s eyes widened in surprise as Luna let out a warning hiss. Hiccup stepped in front of Jack to shield him from the other man. The auburn haired man had a feeling this man knew of the events that happened to Jack on this island all those years ago and knew why he couldn’t remember.

      “Stay behind me.” He told the snow haired teen.

      “What do you know about five years ago?” Jack asked in desperation as the answers he’s wanted to know may finally be in reach.

      “I know everything, Jack. The guardians didn’t tell you? I’m not surprised. They are the ones that ripped you from the one place you were happy. I’m sure they didn’t mean to. After all, they have their reasons. But you would know that better than anyone wouldn’t you Jack? After all, they’ve kept you locked up, grounded, and contained to the Isles.” The man circled them as he spoke. 

The shadows shifted with each step he took. Hiccup turned, making sure to keep Jack shielded as the furies growled at the man.

       “Who are you exactly?” Hiccup inquired his brows furrowing.

       “Oh! Pardon me! Where are my manners?” The man spoke not at all sounding like he cared about that at all. “My name is Pitch Black and I’m glad you came to me. It’s been hard trying to get Jack off that island.”

Hiccup’s eyes widened in apprehension as Jack let out a soft gasp as a dark black horse made of sand stepped forward coming next to the man. The shadows shifted and moved as if to strike but before they could Luna let out a plasma blast hitting the shadows causing them to recoil. Toothless doing the same as the shadows tried to strike from the other side. Jack stumbled back in distress as Hiccup quickly shoved Jack back.

      “We need to go now!” The auburn haired man said, insistently. 

      “Go? Why you just got here.” Pitch said nonchalantly with a fake kind smile. “You’re not going anywhere.”

More horse-like creatures came from the treeline at the man’s words.

       “Toothless!” Hiccup cried out as Toothless shot out another plasma blast at the creatures causing them to dissipate into black sand.

      “Luna!” Jack called to the light fury in anxiety as she also shot the creatures with a plasma blast.

The dragons rushed to their riders. Jack shot his ice out with a swing of his staff freezing the creatures before they could get too close to them. After blasting another Jack turned to Hiccup just to see him cut one of those things in half with his ignited blade causing the creature to dissipate.

      “Let’s go Jack!” Hiccup said as their dragons allowed their riders to mount them.

      “Leaving already? Let’s see if you can outrun my Nightmares.” Pitch said as the dragons quickly shot to the sky with their riders secured on their backs.

Toothless and Luna flapped their wings as they raced to get away from the island. Hiccup in between it all had put inferno away.

       “As fun as that was, let's never do that again.” Hiccup said.

      “Uh, Hiccup. We’ve got company!” Jack called to the other as he spotted nightmares chasing behind them.

       “Oh, come on!” Hiccup sighed exasperated. 

That guy really didn’t know when to give up. Jack patted Luna’s head as he balanced on the balls of his feet. 

        “You know what to do girl.” Jack said as he looked over at Hiccup. “Hey, think you and Toothless can cover me?”

Hiccup looked over at the other. “Jack what are you gonna do?”

Jack shared a small smile. “Oh, you know something stupid. But I need you to trust me on this.”

Hiccup and Toothless shared a look before the freckled man’s lips quirked. “Well, not like we have a plan so let’s give it a shot. Just be careful.”

Jack nodded to the other man. “Always.”

With that he looked to see the nightmares gaining on them. Jack stood on Luna’s back and with his arms out let himself fall off of the light fury.  The nightmares raced to follow Jack as some still chased after Hiccup. Luna looped around shooting the few that were chasing them with a plasma blast so they dissipated into the black sand. Toothless and Hiccup now that they no longer had nightmares on their trail swooped down and shot a couple plasma blasts at the nightmares chasing Jack hitting the creatures while making sure to be careful not to hit Jack. Jack, who was freefalling, swung his staff. Ice shot from it hitting one of the nightmares where the others had dodged the incoming ice. The snow haired man swung again releasing ice this time hitting the others. Luna with her wings tucked in swooped down firing a plasma blast at the last two nightmares before catching her rider and shooting back up towards Hiccup and Toothless. The two dragons careened around a mountain before diving down towards the neighboring island. The nightmares that tried to give chase lost them in the caves the furies dived into. Pitch stood looking out with a frown on his face. Well, there was time. After all, it would get more of the guardian's attention. It just means he could come out of the shadows sooner rather than later. 

North slammed open the doors to the outside when he saw both Jack and Hiccup land with the furies. Hiccup slid off of Toothless and hurried over to the light fury to check on the smaller man who appeared to be quite frazzled. North had been told they were spotted coming in fast as if the fearlings themselves were on their heels. Jack slid off of Luna and the light fury crooned in worry as she butted her head against her rider’s hand. Jack ran his hand over her smooth scales as Toothless also gave a soft worried croon to the young man and his rider. Jack looked up and his eyes met North’s. The older man could see the worry and the withheld panic in those icy blue eyes. North approached the two men just as the other riders were hurrying on as they saw Hiccup and Jack coming back in the distance earlier.

       “What happened?” North asked, looking at the nervous men.

Before Jack could open his mouth to speak Hiccup did in his stead. “It was my fault. We thought we heard Astrid calling out to me. It sounded like she was in danger and at my insistence we followed it… to Nightmare Island.”

North’s eyes widened as his head quickly snapped over to Jack. 

      “Are you out of yer bloody mind?!”

They turned in time to see Aster fast approaching. He had arrived early enough to hear Hiccup’s explanation. 

      “No one is allowed on that star’s forsaken island! Yer lucky you made it back at all!” Aster said with a scowl.

      “And I know that, but I thought Astrid was in danger. I wasn’t about to leave her behind on the chance she was.” Hiccup yelled back.

North sighed in understanding. “You fell victim to the mind games of the fearlings. They use mimicry to trick people. It helps lure them in.”

Hiccup ran a hand through his hair. “Yeah, we figured that out when we ran into that guy.”

      “Guy? What guy?!” Aster asked, alarmed.

      “He was covered in shadows wearing armor and clothes as black as the night sky, maybe darker.” Jack explained. “He said he knew me and the rest of you. Said his name was–”

      “Pitch Black.” North said in horror.

Jack paused as he heard North speak of the man. “Yeah… North do you know him?”

North hurried forward as he started to herd Jack into the building. “You need to get inside now! I will explain everything as we go!” 

Aster followed hot on their heels as did Hiccup. The other riders caught up to the auburn haired man.

       “What trouble did you get yourself into this time?” Astrid inquired.

       “Nothing good that’s for sure.” Hiccup drawled.

       “Can you not get into life threatening trouble for a day?” Snotlout said with a roll of his eyes.

        “Oh, sorry next time I find something that can mimic the voices of the people I know I’ll be sure to ask it not to.” Hiccup said sarcastically.

       “But Hiccup are you okay?” Fishlegs asked his friend worriedly. 

      “I’m fine, but that guy acted like he knew Jack. He wanted Jack there and he used me to make that happen.” Hiccup said with a frown. 

Astrid placed a hand on the man’s shoulder as they entered the globe room behind North and the others. “Don’t worry Hiccup. We protect our own, remember?”

Hiccup nodded as he turned his attention to the others as the other guardians were there. Toothiana had rushed forward checking Jack over in worry. Sandy stood with a small frown on his face. The man looked worried. Aster had his arms crossed over his chest and his brow furrowed. 

      “So Pitch made his move now what?!” Aster asked with vexation. “We waited and look what happened! The bogan nearly got Jack!”

      “Anyone wanna share what’s going on with the rest of us?” Astrid inquired as the riders were left in the dark.

      “Who was this guy that Hiccup and Jack ran into?” Snotlout asked.

      “And what does he want with me?” Jack asked as he gazed at the guardians.”

      “Jack you don’t–”

      “No! You listen to me for once Aster! I am so sick and tired of you guys hiding me away and keeping things from me! I deserve to know how he knows me and what he wants with me!” Jack yelled at the older man as the temperature started to dip in the room with Jack’s anger.

North sighed deeply. “He’s right. It’s about time you know.”

The attention was firmly on North as gazed down at his heir. 

      “The man you met is Pitch Black. We knew him from a different name before he became what he is today.” North explained solemnly. “Pitch is the Nightmare King.”

The silence that followed was deafening as the shock was palpable. Fishlegs who had read about the Nightmare King shifted uneasily. 

      “Hold on! I get that you guys knew him. But how does he know Jack?!” Astrid pressed confused by the turn of events.

      “Because years ago Jack ran away from the North Isles.” Aster said in admittance. “Back then he was alone a lot and I’m sure we didn’t help in that department either. Jack went missing for months. We don’t know what happened, but Jack spent those months on Nightmare Island with Pitch.”

      “When we discovered he was on the island we moved fast to get Jack back and off that island. But we ended up getting into a fight with Pitch. The fearlings on the island started to react and Jack got severely hurt in the crossfire.” Toothiana continued the story. 

       “Then why don’t I remember?” Jack asked, trying to press for more information.

Toothiana looked away guiltily. “Because I took them away.”

Jack looked at Toothiana in shock and betrayal. “Why? Why would you do that?”

Toothiana looked at Jack, the regret shining in her eyes. “Because I thought it was the only way to protect you. You were eating less, you weren’t sleeping, and worst of all you were even more isolated than before.”

       “And whose fault was that?!” Jack shouted angrily. “You know how I feel about you altering or removing memories! You know that what little I can remember is important to me and you still did it?!”

      “Jack!” Aster shouted at the young man. “What did you want her to do?! Watch ya waste away?! You kept trying to return to the blasted island after what happened like you were bloody possessed.”

      “So that makes it okay?!” Jack demanded.

      “No, it doesn’t.” North amended sadly.

      “North!” Aster exclaimed, affronted.

      “No, Aster. Jack is right. It doesn’t make it right. For that I am sorry Jack. However, it’s best that you don’t have those memories at least for now. I promise after we deal with Pitch we will give you your memories back if you want them.” North said, explaining himself to the young man.

The riders in all of this had remained quiet. Hiccup couldn’t believe what he heard. He could see how betrayed Jack felt in the emotion from when he shouted. That and the dipping in the temperature in the room was a dead giveaway. It was starting to get freezing in the room. He wasn’t the only one that felt it if Tuffnut shivering was any indication. 

       “So what’s your plan then?” Hiccup inquired as everyone’s gaze swiveled to him. “You have a plan right?”

       “The plan is that Jack is going to Berk as soon as he’s packed. He’ll be going back with all of you.” North said to the riders. “Along with Mary.”

       “What?! No way!” Jack denied the thought immediately.

      “This isn’t up for debate Jack.” Aster said somberly.

      “And why not?!” Jack demanded.

      “Because you’re the one he wants.” North said with a sigh.

      “So what?! I should just hide away?! No, no! That’s not for me!” 

      “This isn’t up for conversation Jack! Yer going with the riders to Berk and yer gonna stay there until this all blows over! He’s not just targeting you!” Aster said with a deep scowl.

      “All the more reason for me to stay!”

      “Jack.” North called getting the pale teen’s attention. “You’re going. That’s final.”

      “Is there no way around it?” Fishlegs ask.

North shook his head. “No, not until we figure out what he wants.”

Jack’s gaze hardened as Hiccup stepped forward and laid a hand on the snow haired teen’s shoulder. The look Jack gave to Hiccup was brittle like he was about to break. The auburn haired man could only imagine what Jack felt. Being told to leave earlier than planned and finding out his mother figure went in and yanked some of his memories from his head. Before he could say anything Jack just patted the auburn haired man’s hand before turning on his heels and storming out of the room. If no one was going to listen to him, why bother? The door slammed behind him causing North to let out a soft sigh.

      “I apologize that you’ve been dragged into this.” North apologized to the dragon riders.

      “Well, it would be nice to know what we’re dealing with.” Astrid said crossing her arms.

       “The Nightmare King. He’s a sourge and not to be underestimated.” Aster warned.

Sandy had rapid symbols appearing above his head.

Aster nodded. “Yeah, that too.”

      “The best advice we can give is to not let your guard down and do not be fooled by his tricks. But hopefully with you all leaving and Jack going with you. You won’t have to worry about that.” Toothiana said hopefully.

      “And what if he finds Jack?” Hiccup asked.

      “What then?” Snotlout added.

The guardians all looked at each other with grim expressions. 

      “We’re hoping he won’t.” Toothiana said with a sigh. “Listen, we've fought Pitch many times before.”

      “Yeah and each time we’ve made sure to put him back where he belongs.” Aster added.

      “Don’t you guys have another guardian? Can’t he help you with this?” Fishlegs asked.

      “No!” All the guardians shouted causing the dragon riders to startle.

      “The fifth guardian is hidden. Asking him to come out of hiding is asking to put him in Pitch’s direct line of sight. We can’t do that.” North explained.

Never mind that the fifth guardian was Jack. 

      “So let me get this right.” Ruffnut started. “You guys literally ripped memories from his brain, kept secrets, and now you’re sending him away from home because of this one guy?”

      “He isn’t just some guy. The Nightmare King feeds off of fear. He’s killed more people and decimated more tribes than you’ll ever see battle in your lifetime.” Aster said with a sneer.

      “Huh. No wonder Jack’s mad.” Tuffnut said. “I’d be mad too.” 

       “I can’t believe I’m saying this, but they’re right.” Snotlout agreed with the twins.

       “Look, we'll be happy to have Jack at Berk. But you need to tell us everything you can about Pitch so we’re prepared on the off chance he manages to find him.” Hiccup said, trying to compromise.

North nodded in agreement. “Alright. I’ll show you the books as well. They will be of assistance to you.” 

Hiccup nodded in agreement, locking gazes with North. The board was set. Whether they like it or not they were now part of a game they didn’t want to be part of. But it seems it’s a game that Pitch started and even the guardians didn't wish to be part of it either. Hiccup just hoped that Pitch could be stopped. He didn’t know what he was planning. It seemed even the guardians were unsure as to the man's plans. But whatever it was it was clear he had his sights set on Jack. That in itself already wasn’t a good sign. Hiccup just hoped the guardians could wrap this up quickly so Jack wouldn’t be in any type of danger. Hopefully, Jack could still come to enjoy Berk. After all, it seemed he’d be coming with them instead of two days after them. A storm was started and Jack was going to be the heart of it if they weren’t careful about this.