Eret feels Ug's presence behind him and cocks his head questioningly.

"There is one thing I never understood, Captain.." Ug says, stepping closer to the taller man. "How did we manage to lose all the dragons back at the Northern Markets?"

"Ug, how many times have I told you to call me Eret when it's just the two of us," Eret groans with an exasperated sigh.

"Sorry, Capt- I mean, Eret," Ug quickly corrects himself with a smile. "Son of Eret."

Eret chuckles and turns around to face him. "The one and only," he says with a cocky grin. "So what brought this on?"

Ug shrugs. "It's something that always confused me, and I thought I saw..." he trails off, giving Eret a pointed look.

Eret shifts uncomfortably. "What did you think happened, Ug?"

Ug leans against the railing, staring ahead. "We were ambushed and someone let all the dragons free."

"In other words, an occupational hazard," Eret reminds his friend. "That crazy dragon lady will never give us peace."

"But it wasn't a Stormcutter that attacked us," Ug points out. "It was of the Razorwhip species and a vibrant blue and gold Deadly Nadder."

Eret freezes up, eying his friend warily. "What is it that you are asking me, Ug? Spit it out already."

Ug looks hesitant for a moment but then gives in. "What did really happen back at the Northern Markets? The whole truth this time, Eret."

Eret closes his eyes and then lets his shoulders sink in defeat. "The truth is not a what.. but a who, Ug."

Flashback - Part I

They have stopped by the Northern Markets for refills and other purchases. Eret has a constrict schedule but tonight he intends to drink himself to sleep and give his mind a much needed break.

His hopes for some a calm and peace are quickly dashed, however, as his crewmen rush inside to fetch him.

"Someone has looted us!" No-Name shouts in despair.

"Did you see where they went?" Eret asks, scanning the grounds searchingly. "What did they look like?"

Teeny looks thoughtful for a moment. "I think one of them was a merchant. He had a beard and wore an odd attire. Spoke a bit funny, too."

Eret frowns. "What about the others?"

"Couldn't get a good look, they were dressed in cloaks. Although, they left this behind.." Teeny pulls out a small figurine from his pocket.

"Isn't that a piece from the game Maces and Talons?" Ug comments. "I believe that one is called 'the traitor'."

Eret grabs the small brick, studying it up-close with a frown. "So it seems."

As you see, I've gone with the popular vote and decided to pair Eret up with Heather. (I'm just worried no one will read stories that don't involve Hiccup or Astrid.)