The middle of fall brought construction of the port in the north east part of the island. Eret volunteered to build his home near it and keep an eye on it once it was up and running. Several ships had been built by the villagers, and were ready to be lowered down the pulley once the port was completed.
Hiccup stood near the edge of the cliff, observing the work being done on the port. Valka approached, catching Hiccup off guard.
"Are you having a crew go out to explore?" She asked, making Hiccup jump.
"Your stealth is incredible," he said, grabbing his chest.
Hiccup was reluctant to answer his mom's questions, knowing her line of thinking would likely lead to an answer he wouldn't like.
"There aren't any specific plans at the moment. We are taking steps to be ready, in case anything comes up."
She nodded, and remained silent.
Hiccup could feel she had something else on her mind, but still felt apprehensive to ask her what it was.
"Aren't you worried?" Valka finally asked, looking directly at Hiccup instead of the workers.
"Yes, I'm worried about everything. About being a dad…" he half chuckled at the thought of being a dad, "about this port bringing in people to the island, losing the security we have. I'm afraid you're going to get tired of this place and have an itch to leave. I'm afraid I'll fail as Chief, I won't live up to dad's huge shadow. Literally, I'm not even much over half his height!"
Valka grinned, then touched the side of his face, which was now entirely encapsulated by a thick beard. How her son had grown just over the short time she had become reacquainted with him.
"Oh Hiccup, I don't plan on leaving. I do have an itch to travel, but this island has much to be explored yet, and I need to see my grand baby. This port worries me, but you've spoken of how much Berk has benefited from change, and you're right. Now is not the time to become stagnant."
Hiccup smiled and put his hand over hers, feeling his confidence rise a little.
"I still wish I were taller," he said, causing Valka to chuckle.