Well, hello, hello, hello! Back again so soon! Yes, like I said friends, I have no chill lol I suddenly got hit with strong bursts of inspiration and excitement and here it is: the FINAL CHAPTER TO HICCUPS!

Wow… I said a little bit in the last chapter's note about the insanity of this story, how much has happened, the ups and downs. Literally, life is full of hiccups. In the four-ish years it took us to write this story there have been some amazing times, like finding my current employer and getting my first apartment, my first car, getting to grow up a bit and experience life. Seeing some of my closest friends get married and have kids of their own. And there have been some horribly painful times as well, losing friends by tragedy and watching their families grieve, moving in with my roommate just for her dad to be diagnosed with cancer three months later, and then for him to unexpectedly pass a few days before Christmas. Breakups and bills and new responsibilities that come with age. Oh the things you learn in your twenties!

This story also taught me so much, even though I was one of its creators. It helped me to have a place to run to when life sucked. It helped me flesh out real life events that these beloved characters of ours experienced at the same time I did. I laughed at Cliff's ridiculous antics and I cried at the memories of those I've lost, just as the Haddocks lost Benen. I've bled my heart and soul into this story in ways I didn't think I was capable. It helped me have the strength to start writing my own book, which is 153 pages long so far!

But I know I wouldn't be here if it weren't for you guys. You've all been so kind and patient, especially with those months of waiting for the next update. The chats on Discord have been immensely fun and I can't wait to chat with you guys more. If you're not on Discord, join us! We'd love to have you. But I have to thank each and every one of you for your support and kindness.

There are so many life's lessons in this story to be learned, and they're a constant reminder to myself as well. How to be kind, to speak to others, to choose to love others despite what I might want. Life isn't about me. It's taught me how to date ironically lol It teaches how men should treat women, and how women should treat men. We must respect each other, for we are equal.

I could go on and on and on about this story but alas, we're running out of time and there are 48 chapters to read if one wants the full story ;) Thank you all for sticking with us on this journey! I love you all and I can't wait to write more. Stay tuned for Stoking the Flame, a short story that takes place after Hiccups but before the final story of the Growing Up Haddock series, The Rebellion (which will not begin until StF is complete).

Thank you all once again! Don't forget to drop a review and as always, be kind, love others and yourself. Follow your dreams if you have them! GUH has helped me and Katie to find ours. Who knows what's in store for you too?

~Em

Chapter 48: New World

Adrianna stared at her parents, bewildered. Perhaps the early summer heat had gotten to her at last. But no, even Erick paused in his arrangement of various household items in the kitchen as if he'd not quite understood what had been said.

"Come again?" Adrianna asked, bobbing the sleeping Darin gently in her arms.

"I said," Astrid said, stepping forward and wiggling her fingers in a 'give me' motion. "Your brother and Cliff organized a bonfire for your friends, and you both need to go."

"But-" Adrianna gazed around the house, which was in much disarray. "The house is all over the place-"

"Actually the house is still in one piece, still standing," Hiccup said, gazing about the living room as if intentionally ignoring the chaos around him. Awfully convenient for one who was normally such a stickler for details. "It will be here when you get back."

"That's just it," Adrianna said, relenting and allowing her mom to take Darin. "On a good day I couldn't care less about organization, but we started one project that led to another and just… well, look at this place!"

They'd put off organizing the large assortment of wedding and baby shower gifts for countless weeks. She'd never had the motivation while pregnant and Erick never seemed to mind, given that he was busy taking care of her and working nearly sunup to sundown in the weeks following the Convocation. He was determined to build them a bigger house as soon as possible, and with the large undertaking came a large assortment of projects. And to make this house salable to others, that also required fixing things up around the small house, from changing worn panels to replacing the door Cliff had accidentally run his head through once.

And by accident, that really meant he'd run at it full speed after Finn had dared him to use all his strength to open the closed door without using his hands. It had been a late night, Erick had amended, and distinctly prior to their marriage, "an event with which he'd seen the light almost on a spiritual level and could now avoid such ridiculous antics".

Right. Needless to say, all these projects and their preparations for the new house cost money, so he was working himself tirelessly. Now that Darin was almost a month old, they were ready to settle into their new life, just the three of them… and that required a house that at least had some form of structure. If they couldn't get this place in order, how could they manage something bigger? They couldn't even move around for lack of space!

Overflowing laundry baskets and a tub full of dirty dishes. There were immense piles of empty boxes and tissue paper scattered on and around the kitchen table, which was also buried in towels, blankets, dishware, toys, and a large assortment of meat and vegetables that Erick had picked up from the market on his way home. Piles of wood shavings she'd finally managed to sweep into the corner lay forgotten after she'd had to stop and feed Darin.

She'd finally resolved to take some responsibility and get this place in order. She didn't want to raise her baby in a dump. Besides, if it was bad enough for her to go slightly insane, it was bad.

"The thing is," Hiccup said, taking in the mess with a casual sweep of his green eyes. "The house and all the things in it aren't going anywhere."

"But you know what is?" Astrid asked, flipping her braid off her shoulder so it wouldn't wake Darin. "Your youth."

Erick exhaled heavily through his mouth. "Fair point, but we've got so much to do. We don't have time…" He looked up suddenly, his voice higher than usual. "Unless you want to go, Annie. You can. I'm not holding you back and there's some woodworking I need to do anyway."

Adrianna frowned. "If I'm going then so are you."

"Great, it's settled!" Hiccup clapped his hands. "We'll-"

"No, I wasn't saying that," Adrianna interrupted. "Look, there's not even a place to sit! There will be more hangouts with our friends but not today."

Her daddy's face fell. "Addie… Erick, come here."

Begrudgingly, Erick obeyed. He stood beside her with his hands deep in his pockets. His wavy hair was sticking up in odd directions, as if he'd run his hands through it countless times. Now that he was up close she saw how frazzled and tired he looked. Erick never got frazzled, but with all the changes this last month had brought, especially Darin keeping them up at night...

"We've been here," Astrid said gently. "A young couple with a new baby, though we had two. We didn't realize how much work it would be. It is tiring. You two need to be able to step out now and then, have a nice date, or even take a nap if you need it."

"Or, in this case, spend time with your friends," Hiccup added. "You're both young and it's important to maintain those friendships, and allow yourselves to be kids, too. Yes, you're married with a baby now, and the new house is a big responsibility; but that doesn't mean you never get to have fun." He shared a look with Astrid. "If you really don't want to go to the bonfire, then don't go. You can go on a date instead or we can stay and help you organize the house. It's up to you. But I'd encourage you to think about it. You haven't had a fun night out in a long time."

Adrianna thought over their words. She was tired, yes, but sleep wasn't on her mind. Now that she thought about it, stepping out for a little while sounded nice. The thought of talking with friends and not worrying about diapers or feeding or cleaning for a little while, even if it was just for an hour… Maybe they'd come back and start fresh tomorrow and be able to actually accomplish something.

She looked up at Erick, whose eyes were already on her. He'd do whatever she wanted. But she could tell he'd been cooped up in the house too long. He didn't get stressed very easily with his down-to-earth personality but even he could get antsy. She could tell he wanted to be responsible and do what was expected of him, but that didn't mean he had to slave away in the house doing chore after endless chore on his one day off. Granted, the house was a mess. But her parents were also right; they could take a break, have some fun, and tackle more chores later.

Adrianna took her husband's hand. "Alright. Let's go. Even if it's only for a little while, it might do us some good to step out for a little bit."

Relief flashed in Erick's face as he smiled.

"But," Adrianna said, gazing down at her stained, rumpled shirt. She could only imagine what her hair looked like. "I'm not going anywhere without a bath first."

Her parents and husband snorted as she marched off to the washroom. Far be it from her to go to any fun-filled occasion looking like a slob. Though she was sure that even if she showed up in her pajamas, her friends wouldn't mind.

As the tub filled and chatter filled the living room, Adrianna couldn't help but feel a flash of excitement as she poured a generous amount of lavender and lemon verbena bubbles into the water. Though her body had healed well in the month since giving birth, she truly hadn't had a night out in a long time. She'd be seeing her brother, Genevieve, who'd flown in that morning, and their friends. When was the last time she'd had a fun evening out with her husband, let alone with their friends? And Mara told her in their last checkup that perhaps in a few weeks she'd be able to fly again!

Oh, to fly again with Lily… It had been far too long.

Adrianna slid into the hot water with a soft moan of ecstasy. Oof, forget the bonfire… she might just stay in here all night. When was the last time she'd had a relaxing bubble bath?

She started with a jolt. She sat up with a splash and glanced around the washroom, hoping and praying she'd find one… and slumped back down in the water with a sigh. She'd forgotten a towel. Blast this pregnancy brain- Well, she supposed, she couldn't blame it on pregnancy anymore. New motherhood brain. Yeah, that sounded about right.

"Eriiiiiiiick," she said in a long whining drawl. "I need you!"

In no time at all, the door cracked open and he poked his head in. "You alright?" He snorted with laughter. "Have you got enough bubbles?"

Alas, she could barely see him above the accumulated bubbles gathering around her. New motherhood brain, indeed.

"I forgot a towel." She stuck out her lip in a dramatic pout.

Erick shook his head with an amused grin. "Hang on."

The door shut with a snap and Adrianna sighed, settling deeper into the water so bubbles tickled her cheeks. It wasn't long before he reappeared, shutting the door gently behind him and setting the plush grey towel on a nearby bench.

"Here you are, m'lady. Anything else I can get you? A snack? Some of Gobber's finest wine?"

Adrianna grinned. "How about some bells for your ankles and you can do a dance?"

"Ahh, cheeky." Erick smirked, teal eyes flickering downward. Even though the vast number of bubbles in the tub obscured any view of her body, she knew exactly what he was thinking. "You know-"

"Don't- not now, my parents are here!" Adrianna hissed, face flushing in a way that had nothing to do with the water temperature.

Erick's laugh echoed through the room as he threw up his hands in mock surrender. "Hey, can you blame me for trying?"

Her toes curled beneath the water at the thought. Technically, since it had been a few weeks since she'd given birth, Mara had told her to proceed with care. But the actual thought of doing that again so soon…

She cleared her throat, trying to ignore his mischievous smile. "You've become quite the rogue, Mr. Larson." At that he squinted as Adrianna raised a hand, tiptoeing her fingers across the rim of the tub. "But I suppose we'll have to get a rain check."

Erick made an annoyed sound from the back of his throat before grabbing the door knob. "You, Mrs. Larson, are very evil."

She blew a loud raspberry in his direction and gave him a sweet wave as he slipped out the door, grinning despite himself. She decided in that moment that she was glad to be in here and not out there, where her parents could be heard cooing over Darin. She hoped the walls weren't super thin because if they'd overheard this new heated form of flirting, she'd surely die of embarrassment.

Still, she wouldn't be forgetting that smoldering look in his eyes very soon.

There was something to be said about gathering around the fire with friends and loved ones. The sky was a muted purple-grey as the sun at last descended below the horizon, casting an orange glow across the faces, shadows dancing and bobbing in tandem with the flickering flames.

Finn slid an arm around Genevieve's waist, smiling as she leaned into his warmth even as she listened eagerly to Helga's tale.

"And since the ravenous beast had me by the legs and dragged me toward it's open jaws," she said in a dramatic voice, wriggling her fingers for effect. "There was only one thing left to do." She leaped atop the fire pit and drew her sword, the girls squealing as she pointed it menacingly toward them. "I drew my blade and slashed the beast's tongue off!"

"Eww!" Taryn shuddered.

"Nice." Inga grinned. "What did you do with it?"

"Kept it of course," Helga said, sliding her sword back into the scabbard across her shoulders. "I sent a portion of it with Johann to have it turned into a nice leather jacket."

Finn choked on his drink, laughing even as Genevieve gasped in horror.

"And the other half?" Erick asked in amusement.

"Five silver coins says she turned it into a hat." Thorein smirked.

"Eight," Evan slapped his hand. "But I'm betting it was a pair of boots." Morgan frowned at him with distaste, as if the idea was repulsive.

"Wrong and wrong," Helga smirked, crossing her arms. "Any other guesses? Hm?"

Adrianna winced even as she asked, "A new riding vest?"

"Ten coins, and I say blanket." Finn said.

"Ah!" Helga pointed at him, blue eyes crinkling in mischief. "Not quite but Finn knows me best. For where else would I keep my most treasured possessions but in close quarters?"

Genevieve's nose wrinkled. "Well what else could it be, other than a pillow?"

Helga's arms shot into the air. "Genevieve wins!" Groans of disgust rose up around the firepit, girls squealing in dismay while the boys roared with laughter. Genevieve herself looked affronted that she'd guessed correctly. "Yes, I had the rest custom-made as a nice, rubbery pillow. It's actually quite relaxing, the texture-"

"Ew ew ew, stop!" Taryn shouted, covering her ears.

"Aw come on," Cliff scoffed. "Going for the tongue is too easy. Why didn't you go for the eyes? After all, that sort of beastie has the nice big, gelatinous orbs that glow in the dark. You could have boiled them down for gelatin or made a pair of glass eyes, or-"

Finn didn't think Taryn's gag was faked as she suddenly stood and took a seat beside Adrianna, far from her boyfriend, who seemed not to notice her sudden absence, knee deep as he was in conversation with Helga.

A pair of lips ghosted across his jawline, sending a shiver crawling down his spine. "Someone looks amused." Genevieve pulled back with a small grin. The firelight cast her face in sharp relief, setting the gold strands of her curly hair alight and setting her dark eyes glowing like embers. "Thinking of hunting some wicked man-eating plants to order some of your own tongue pillows?"

"Why do I need tongue pillows when I have yours at my disposal any day?" Finn whispered, closing the gap between them with a kiss. She breathed a laugh and slid her hand up his neck-

"Oy!"

"Get a room!"

Genevieve pulled away, flushing at the hoots and hollers. Finn didn't care, they could say what they wanted. He loved her and he'd kiss her as often as he wanted no matter who was around. As long as she was in agreement, of course.

Still, the flash of silver didn't quite escape his notice when both Evan and Thorein and Cliff handed coins to Helga, who grinned triumphantly.

"What? I bet you'd wait until after sundown to kiss and they all guessed before. So I win."

"No more bets." Thorein sighed. "Helga will bleed us all dry."

Inga snorted. "Sore loser."

"Gotta make a living somehow, my friend," Helga said, jangling her money bag. "Thank you for your donation."

"Speaking of living," Genevieve turned to the Larsons, who were snuggled up on their seats looking tired but comfortable. "How's the new place coming along?"

"Well, it's the old place we're more concerned with right now," Erick said, tapping his prosthetic against the stone pit. "Just fixing things up and trying to get it in order. I should start building in a few weeks."

"Well let me know," Genevieve said. "I can help-"

Finn straightened. "You're not helping build the house!"

"Actually I was going to offer to watch Darin, but you boys can do that while me and Adrianna raise the roof."

"Yaaaas girl!" Helga cheered, raising her mug.

Genevieve shrugged her brows at him cheekily. Finn couldn't help but laugh. She'd never cease to amaze him, and put him in his place when necessary. If she truly had wanted to help build the house, maybe it wouldn't be such a bad idea… as long as he was there at all times to supervise. He planned to help Erick anyway, but-

"Oh would you stop worrying?" Genevieve elbowed him in the ribs. "Honest, I'm going to help Anna. I've already made arrangements to help her get the current house in order, or distract baby Darin so she can focus. Many hands make light work, yes?"

Finn nodded. "You're right."

"Hey, who stole my girlfriend?" Cliff demanded, whirling around. He spied Taryn in deep conversation around the pit and leaped to his feet. "Anna-bear! How dare you steal Tare-bear from me-"

At least three people gasped as he tripped on his way around the pit, nearly toppling into the flames like the overgrown toddler he was. Evan caught him around the arm and steered him the right direction, much to everyone's relief. Cliff didn't seem to notice, but merely squeezed between Erick and Adrianna, forcing them apart. Much to their displeasure, if their scowls were any indication.

"So, who wants to hear a funny story?" Cliff asked, not waiting for a reply. "Great, because it's great. So once upon a time there was a prince of a great and mighty kingdom across the sea-"

"Are you sure that's a funny story?" Adrianna asked. "Sounds more like an epic tale to me."

"Shh, don't ruin it!" Cliff hissed. "This prince had a name, a name that would go down in infamy! His name… was Fearless Finn."

"Hey!" Finn frowned at the chorus of laughter. "I won't go down in infamy-"

"Fearless Finn was great at many things," Cliff continued as if there'd been no interruption. "Fighting, riding his fierce electricity-belching dragon-"

"She doesn't belch-"

"Even cooking, if you can believe it. Indeed there was nothing he could not do!"

"Until one day-" Helga said.

"NO!" Cliff shouted, nearly breaking Erick's nose when his arms shot out in chaotic fashion. "This is MY story! Were you there to witness this blunder of vast proportions? No? Okay then-"

Suddenly, Finn knew exactly what story was being told. "Wait-"

"And so it happened that Fearless Finn's sister had a baby," Cliff continued in rapid succession, realizing Finn's ploy as he leaped to his feet and bounded around the fire pit. "And Fearless Finn was advised- ow- to change- diaper- but baby nephew-"

"Shut! Up!" Finn hissed, trying in vain to shut him up with every bit of energy he had. He punched, pulled, yanked, but Cliff would not be moved from his seat. In fact, the Larsons were helping him to stay seated.

"Turns out baby nephew has GREAT AIM- Ahhh!" Cliff was dragged to his feet as Finn gave a mighty heave.

"Whoa! Watch the fire-" Thorein shouted as they struggled, Cliff cackling madly.

"I'll throw you off this watch tower!" Finn threatened.

"So your nephew peed on you, what's the big deal?" Erick demanded.

Finn released Cliff with a groan of irritation, though it went unheard with the loud chorus of laughter that echoed through the hills. He was pretty sure it could be heard all the way to his house.

"Seriously? It was embarrassing!"

Cliff threw an arm around his shoulders. "The Chief goes, 'that's karma for you! You peed on me once too and pretty sure that sweater never smelled the same again!'"

Taryn gasped. "That implies that the Chief wore it again afterwards!"

"Well I'm quite sure he washed it." Genevieve said, ever the voice of reason.

"Can we talk about something else, please?" Finn pleaded.

"Some boys would call it marking their territory," Adrianna said. Erick swiveled in his chair, looking aghast. The small smile on her face was unmistakable. "He's just saying he loves his Uncle Finn!"

"That's true," Cliff said, squeezing his shoulder and giving him a shake. "But it's not Finn's fault he doesn't find it a-PEE-ling."

"Oh my gods-" Finn shoved him hard.

Cliff toppled into the nearest bench seat beside Helga, both of them cackling with laughter.

"Oh you guys, leave my baby alone!" Adrianna said.

"Yeah, be nice to my nephew." Finn crossed his arms.

"Oh Darin is fine," Adrianna said, brushing a fleck of imaginary lint off her shoulder. "I was talking about you."

And there went all sanity from around the fire. Everyone, even Taryn and Genevieve were hunched over themselves, laughing so hard that tears had pricked their eyes. Finn stood in the middle of his circle of friends, all of them laughing at his expense. At least Erick was trying not to, but that telltale dimple was just too revealing.

Finn huffed and marched to the nearest ladder, muttering under his breath about ridiculous friends embarrassing him. A few of them called him back, Cliff especially, though he was still gasping for breath.

Away from the fire, it was dark in the small cabin area at the top of the tower. Up here he could feel the wind and see the first stars twinkling in the darkening night sky. He ran a hand through his hair and sighed, dropping into a seat on the floor so that his legs dangled over the edge.

The lingering embarrassment faded and he released a short laugh at the memory. Adrianna thought it wise to teach him how to care for Darin's diapers, should he be in charge of caring for the little boy. At first, like most things regarding babies, it weirded him out a little bit, but he reasoned that it was a completely necessary responsibility, and his little nephew depended on the adults around him to take care of him in every way. He trusted them. So Finn pushed the unease out of his mind and accepted the lesson with gusto.

But he hadn't realized that there was a risk of being peed on in the process.

He shook his head. In no time at all, little Darin had become a part of the family. The most pleasurable experience was making him smile, though he'd yet to laugh. Finn repeated his name to Darin almost as constantly as Erick and Adrianna told him "mama and daddy". He'd vowed to his family that Darin's first word was going to be his uncle's name.

It was amazing how much had happened in the last year. A year ago if he'd been told that he would be an uncle in nine months, he would have laughed himself hoarse and probably thrown that person into the ocean. Still, despite the terrible things that had happened, he wouldn't give up his little nephew for the world. For one so small, he truly had filled so many little holes in his family's heart. From being named after the son his parents had lost, to fulfilling that desire of motherhood to Adrianna and healing her wounds, to giving Erick a reason to assume his role as husband and father… even shaping the way Finn thought about the world. And last, but certainly not least, providing Lofn with a family after spending her entire life alone.

The woman had chosen to move to Berk in the weeks since the Convocation. As Brandyn had made his decisions and hadn't kept in touch with her, she'd decided that she would follow in her father's footsteps. Forgetting what lay behind and instead focusing on what lies ahead.

Finn's gaze drifted to the deep blue horizon where it melded with the ocean. Lofn's decision, and even Benen's decision, had resonated with him on both occasions. He remembered the true taste of freedom after his father had rescued him from the clutches of Ratri's cruelty. His father had fought tooth and nail across the Archipelago for him and extended that hand to Benen, paving the way for a life of happiness and beauty that he'd not tasted for decades.

So too had they extended that hand to Lofn. But Finn knew there were still so many out there who needed that help. Who were waiting and pleading with the gods for help, to send someone, anyone to rescue them.

Well, it was enough. He'd waited and bided his time. He'd stuck to the rules and watched them bend around him. Day by day, their borders were being tested. It wouldn't take long for those borders and rules to crumble, when the slave trade would expand into their own territories. And by then it would be too late.

So he'd bring the fight to them. There was no other alternative. But it was a mission he'd gladly give his life for, even if he put his own people's future in jeopardy to do it.

A soft clang of leather on metal sounded, snapping him out of his thoughts. Genevieve appeared moments later, looking amused. "You alright?"

"Yeah, I'm good. Just needed some fresh air after all that…."

"Well, a well placed pun isn't exactly the deadliest of foes," she said as she cleared the ladder and came to sit beside him.

"Ever heard of kicking a man already down?" He asked, leaning in close enough for a few curls to tickle his face.

"I prefer to call it," Genevieve said, leaning closer. "Driving the nail home."

"Ah, there's a fierce cruelty in beauty." Finn said, pulling back in mock surrender.

"Or a fierce beauty in cruelty," Genevieve said. "I'm sure there are more puns to discover."

"No, no, I think I've had my fair share of puns for one night."

"Well being peed on is no small feat. You should wear it like a badge of honor. Just think, Darin saved that tinkle just for you!"

"Ugh, would you stop?" Finn demanded but couldn't help the grin as she collapsed into his shoulder, giggling madly. "You're almost as bad as Cliff."

"Almost. I can have mercy on a weak man."

With lifted brows, Finn gave her a sidelong look, then elbowed her away at her wild grin. "Full of insults today. You're in rare form."

"Oh just think of all the possibilities," she mused, sliding closer and tilting his face toward hers. Her hand slid down his jaw, even as she bit her lip, drawing his attention even in the dark. "Add insult to injury, and the more injuries you have, well…" She traced a finger across his lips and he thought he'd go absolutely mad. "What is it they say? I'll lick them for you?"

His mouth was on hers instantly, not allowing time for her playful question to hang in the air. Genevieve pushed her hands into his hair as he pushed her back and leaned her up against the wall. She matched his rhythm, moaning softly as he slid a hand around the curve of her waist. He pulled back and mouthed her jaw, already breathing hard.

"Gods, you say the dirtiest things." Finn murmured.

Genevieve bit her lip and grinned, tilting her jaw and exposing her throat. Well, she was indeed in rare form tonight.

He pinched her chin and pressed his lips to hers again, gentling his approach. Genevieve went boneless, her breath hitching as he slowly kissed his way down her throat and scraped his teeth along her pulse point just as he squeezed the curve of her waist. A moan sounded deep in her throat even as she nearly pulled the hair from his scalp.

"Shh," Finn whispered. "Wouldn't want the others to come investigating."

Genevieve's chest was rising and falling rapidly. She didn't seem to care or maybe hadn't heard his words and pulled his mouth back onto hers, her tongue tasting and teasing his. Gods, he couldn't get enough of her, and didn't mind heeding her request for more one bit. He'd spend all night up here kissing if she wished.

It felt like some time before they came back up for air. The stars were twinkling brighter and the laughter still sounded around the fire below. Finn's mind buzzed even as his skin felt flushed, every touch sending a pulse of electricity through his bones.

Genevieve too looked dazzled and breathless, though he could barely see her in the darkness. Maybe that's what made it all the more alluring, like the time they'd made out in the library. He brushed a few curls out of her face, gentle in a way that he knew nobody else saw. Only for her would he allow himself to be so vulnerable, to be so gentle. She was strong in her own right and in many ways, but she was also gentle and sweet and kind. He would treasure her above all others.

As if she'd sensed the direction his thoughts had taken, she pressed her face into his chest. He slid her arms around her back and held her close, turning them so they could see the stars. She settled deeper into his embrace when he rubbed her back gently in a relaxing motion.

They sat in silence, each lost in their own thoughts for some time, staring at the sky and enjoying the other's embrace. Eventually Finn began to wonder with the steadiness of her breath if she'd fallen asleep, not that he'd mind, when she slid a hand into the collar of his shirt and pulled out the Sullivan crest.

He waited as she looked it over in the darkness, the raised golden edges flashing in the dim light.

"Do you think someday," she asked quietly. "The Archipelago might know true peace? The Hjartans and Berkians have grown a bond of friendship in so little time spent together. It's so rare. But do you think that's something that can happen for all the tribes?"

Finn took a deep breath. "Not while we're divided. Relationships of any kind take work, but while evil people are in power… Allie and Gray… and Brandyn, out there scheming, who knows? Maybe someday we can unite the tribes under a true banner of peace. Maybe someday we'll live in a world where hate and violence don't thrive and dictate how people live." He shook his head. "My dad changed the Archipelago, how Vikings see dragons, and village by village he taught people to see them as friends instead of enemies. Fifty years ago, my grandparents probably asked the same question. 'Will there ever be peace? Will there ever be a stop to the fighting?' Maybe… maybe the work we do next will bring about a change. Maybe it won't be as drastic. Maybe we won't see the change it brings out. Maybe our grandkids will be the ones to see all our hard work come to fruition." He swallowed, lost staring at the horizon. "But each hard day of fighting for that peace will have been worth it. Every day."

Genevieve cupped his face and tilted it down to meet his eye. "Then day by day we'll work, Finn. No matter the cost."

Finn pressed his forehead to hers, hoping to convey with his eyes alone just how much her support and strength meant to him. Together, they would fight battles, whether in the Great Hall or in the skies. He'd teach her everything he knew. And she'd teach him everything she knew, when to stay his hand or think before speaking. How to have hope in a time of stress or grief or despair. Together they'd raise up a new generation of peace, from one end of the Archipelago to the other. A new world that was safe and thrilling and full of opportunity for every man, woman and child blessed to call this world home.

One day at a time, they would fight for that new world. No matter the cost.

Adrianna's hand was soft and warm in his, her cheek pressed to his shoulder as they took the long way home. While Erick felt exhausted after spending time with their friends, he felt refreshed. Taking a few hours to get dinner in the Hall with Adrianna and laughing with the others after a month of endless hours at the leather shop, choosing and buying property, preparing to build the new house, and figuring out how to be a better husband to his wife, not to mention how to be a dad.

It was a wonder he hadn't collapsed yet. Lesser men had by now, Hiccup insisted, but he wasn't convinced. He thought he was doing a terrible job staying ahead.

Sure things hadn't fallen to pieces yet, though Adrianna had fallen to pieces on more than one occasion. Figuring out new motherhood was no simple feat and frankly, they'd both seen better days. With sleepless nights on the upswing and little time to talk and spend time together like they used to, it was no wonder Hiccup and Astrid had practically insisted they leave the house.

Now he understood why. They were right, as most wise parents were. He'd have to make more time for Adrianna. She wouldn't complain, knowing that he was doing his best to provide for them. But he'd made it a bit of an obsession. No job or chore or future plan was more important than the here and now, spending time with his wife, and separate time with his wife and child. They were two different responsibilities that must be tended to, much like a garden. He wouldn't tell Adrianna this in so many words, but if he didn't continue to cultivate that garden of friendship and love, if he didn't stay close to her, and she to him, their garden would soon be overrun with weeds.

"What are you thinking about?" Adrianna murmured against his shoulder, her breath warming the material down to his skin.

He blinked, surprised at that particular detail that had snagged his attention. "Uh… gardening?"

Adrianna straightened with a snort. "No more projects."

"No," Erick agreed. "Let's build the house first."

"Let's clean the house we currently live in first," Adrianna corrected, then sighed. "Let's not think about it."

"Okay."

Adrianna swung their hands between them as they walked, gravel crunching beneath their boots. "Did you have fun?"

"I did. It was nice to get out." Erick glanced at her face, trying to gauge her expression. "We should go out more often. It would be good for us."

"Yeah, probably a good idea." Adrianna nodded, but he could tell her heart wasn't in it.

He tugged her to a stop. "What is it? Did you not have fun?"

"No, I did," Adrianna sighed, green eyes muted in the darkness. "I just… I don't know."

"Annie, tell me."

"Does… does it sound bad that I feel guilty?" Adrianna looked up at him. "Leaving Darin and our house a mess for a few hours. Why do I feel like I'm a terrible mother because I can't keep up with everything? Why should I have to take time off at all? Doesn't that just sound like I'm failing?"

"No! Annie, not at all, no." Erick brushed her hair out of her face, sensing the cascade of emotions that had clearly been brewing over the last few hours. "I understand why it would make you feel that way. There's been a lot going on and… and I know I haven't been very supportive of you lately."

Adrianna looked up. "What are you talking about? You've been doing so much-"

"That's my point." Erick said. "I've been so busy doing things that I'm not spending time with you. You have to admit that it's felt a little distant the last few weeks?"

She seemed to consider his words and deflated a little. Of course, she'd noticed. Maybe she couldn't pinpoint it, but not having those daily conversations that they were accustomed to since childhood was starting to affect them. Already, the weeds were creeping in.

"It's not your fault," Erick continued, squeezing her shoulders. "I've at least had the chance to get out of the house and do other things-"

"Things that need to be done-" Adrianna argued, clearly not intending to let him bear the burden alone.

"Yes, but I'm still working on those things when I'm home, when you've been cooped up in the house with Darin all day. You're doing amazing considering how crazy the last few weeks have been, but at the end of the day, I need to be supportive of you, and I haven't been doing that." Erick sighed, trying not to let his frustration show too much, but he could feel it like a dragon, clawing at his insides with guilt. "I'm still figuring this out, being a husband and… it's different with Darin, in a good way of course. I just… I want to give you and Darin everything I can, but I don't want to get sidetracked by things that aren't as important as the people in front of me."

Adrianna's brow crinkled. She threw her arms around his neck and squeezed him tight. "I know, but you're not doing a terrible job. We could both do better talking to each other. I hadn't realized how stressed you were until my parents came over, and it was like… like I was forced to pay attention to details I'd missed before." She pulled back and looked him in the eyes, so close he could nearly count the light freckles dotting her nose. "We're a team. We're doing all of this together. So together, we'll work on doing better, for each other. Okay?"

Erick's heart warmed and he nodded, bending to kiss her softly. She traced his face with a hand before standing on tiptoes and leaning in closer, inhaling deeply, as if breathing him in.

And just like that, it was like the days after they were first married. Their kisses before getting married had for the most part been chaste, maybe a little exploring, but not like the slow, burning passion they'd slowly built to in the weeks after saying, "I do." In the weeks leading up to her giving birth she'd withdrawn a bit, their kisses returning to the chasteness of before. He didn't seem to mind.

Not until now anyway, when he realized just how much he wanted her and missed her.

Adrianna made a small moan of displeasure when he pulled away. "I think maybe we should head home," he said, his voice shakier than he'd hoped. He swallowed hard before continuing. "Check on the baby."

The smoldering look in her eyes dimmed slightly, but whatever she saw in his expression must have said it all, for she gave him a slow, rather wicked smile. "What's the matter, Mr. Larson? Afraid I'll have my way with you out here in the open?"

"Gah, Annie," Erick hissed, glancing around at the dozens of homes lining the streets. "Don't be naughty."

"What, naughtier than your flirtatious attempts with my parents sitting in the other room? You, sir, are the naughty one."

Erick grinned, having forgotten about that encounter. "Well you did say something about a rain check."

"Hm," Adrianna hummed, sliding a hand down his chest and patting his thundering heart as if she knew exactly how fast it was beating. "I suppose I did."

She turned and sashayed away like the golden, green-eyed queen she was, effectively setting his blood on boil. Erick took a deep steadying breath and trailed after her, trying his absolute best to calm down and not make a fool of himself in front of his mother and father-in-law, seeing as they were literally a few yards from the house.

Still, it took everything in his power to hold back when she turned a coy smile over her shoulder and grinned.

Somehow she restrained herself. Well, a little bit. Ah what the heck, it had been a long time since Erick had looked at her like that, and she had to admit it was kinda nice. A little more than nice.

Okay, it was very nice.

Shaking her head as she pushed the door open, Adrianna greeted her parents with a wide smile. "Hi, we're back!"

"How did it go?" Astrid asked from the kitchen, which-

Adrianna froze, and Erick nearly collided with her on the threshold. There was a floor. The counters were cleared, various items still stashed in boxes but in much more orderly fashion: towels, toys, cooking utensils, and more. And-

"You replaced the door for me?" Erick asked, staring at Hiccup kneeling on his hands and knees across the house, sanding the new door.

Her daddy stood, shaking out his bad knee, and opened the new door, which moved on soundless hinges. "Got you some new hinges, too. The other ones were rusty."

"You didn't have to do that," Erick said. "Any of it. But… wow, guys, thanks. The place looks-"

"Much better than we could ever have it," Adrianna joked, gazing about in wonder. She'd almost forgotten what a clean house could look like. What this little house looked like without all the clutter.

"Great. It looks great." Erick said, shaking Hiccup's hand as he approached.

Adrianna stood on tiptoes and kissed his cheek. "Yes, thank you."

"Things are more orderly now, so it should hopefully be less stressful to find a place," Astrid said, throwing an arm around her shoulders. "Or if you'd like, just leave everything in the boxes. Less packing to do later."

"And," Hiccup said. "A moving trick: don't take your clothing out of your dressers. Just move the drawers themselves to the new house and put them back in the dresser when it arrives. No folding, no extra packing and unpacking, no hassle."

"Sounds like something my mom would say," Erick said in amazement.

Hiccup opened his mouth but Astrid beat him to it. "That's because she did. She was here an hour ago and helped us take care of a few things. She'd just seen Nikolas and Mel and tiny Eleanor-"

"Ellie is cuter." Hiccup stated. "Why give her such an old name?"

"It's fitting for Nikolas, given that was our grandmother's name." Erick smirked. "He'll cave eventually."

"Anyway," Astrid continued. "She came by to see Darin next and put him to bed before she left, so he's in his room."

"Ooh!" Adrianna hurried forward, her heart leaping with joy at seeing her son. Even a few hours away felt like an eternity.

The others chuckled, mocking Hiccup for trying to steal Lara's wise packing tips as she entered the room, tiptoeing in the dim light. She gazed into the crib where Darin slept, a little squishy ball wrapped in a grey blanket with the words "little warrior" embroidered on the corner.

She smiled, holding her arms over her chest. She'd be content to stand here all night and watch him sleep, his little tongue sticking out past tiny baby lips and his peach fuzz blond hair.

A hand slid up her back and she arched into Erick's touch, even as he pressed a kiss to her temple. "Little guy's out, huh?"

"Yeah."

"Want to say bye to your parents? They're putting their boots on."

Adrianna nodded, but bent and kissed Darin softly on the forehead, softer than a butterfly's wingbeat. "I love you."

She turned from the room and watched as Erick slowly closed the door, leaving it cracked just enough for them to hear when Darin would likely wake in a few hours. Adrianna waited for her parents to put their jackets on before embracing them both.

"Thank you for everything, the house and telling us to go out." She said, squeezing their hands. "You were right. We needed to get out for a bit."

"Plus it was great to hear Cliff regale everyone with the tale of Darin peeing all over Finn."

Astrid tried to cover her laugh with a snort. "I bet he loved that."

"Oh yeah, he went to the top of the tower to brood for a while. But Gen went up there soon after, likely to lick his wounds." Adrianna said with a mischievous shrug of her brows. "They were still up there when we left."

"Ahh, well wives are good for licking wounds." Hiccup said, earning him a smack.

"They're not married!"

"Yet." Adrianna, Erick and Hiccup all said in unison, earning an eye roll from Astrid as they snorted.

"Alright, let's go. It's late and Darin isn't the only baby that needs to go to bed." Astrid said.

Hiccup tripped on the threshold. "Hey!"

Erick laughed and wrapped an arm around Adrianna's waist as they watched from the doorway. "Stay out of trouble, you two."

"And thank you," Adrianna called, waving. "For everything."

Her parents beamed. "For you, Addie," Hiccup said. "Anything."

"At any time." Astrid said.

With a quick whistle from Astrid, Toothless and Stormfly ran around the corner looking sleepy. Apparently they'd been snoozing in the dark alcove between houses. Her parents mounted and waved as the dragons took off, disappearing into the darkness like a pair of shadows.

Erick squeezed her waist and beckoned her back inside. She followed and surveyed the new organized house as he shut the door.

"It's amazing how much work they can accomplish when they set their minds to it," she said in amazement. "It looks like a different place."

"It does." Erick's hands skimmed from her hips to her ribcage. "I believe," he said in a low voice against her ear. "That someone called a rain check."

Adrianna blinked and laughed awkwardly. "Well, someone was eager for my parents to leave."

"Well a certain princess didn't want them present," Erick said, kissing her neck firmly. "So yes, you might say I wanted them to leave very badly."

Quivering with nerves and excitement, Adrianna turned out of his hold and made a show of thinking about it. "Hmm I don't know... I mean I've got so much on my plate right now."

"Really?" Erick asked, stepping closer. She stepped back as he approached. "Baby's asleep, house is clean… a perfectly new door in place. What else is there to do?"

Adrianna's back hit the back of the couch and she was forced to look up at his approach as he slowly closed the distance between them. "I… Um…"

What happened to the coy, playful Adrianna out in the street fifteen minutes ago? She seemed to have vacated left stage, leaving her here, blundering away, the awkward, shy Adrianna. What if… maybe she wasn't ready for this after all.

Erick seemed to read the unsurety in her eyes and the amused smile faded. "We can wait."

Adrianna swallowed. Did she want to wait? Mara said it was alright… it had been a month of healing after giving birth, after all. But maybe it wasn't an issue of her body being ready, but her mind. Maybe she wasn't ready.

It was fear holding her back. Not of him. Never of him. But after getting comfortable without intimacy being an option so close to pregnancy and then giving birth, she'd almost forgotten about it. It was okay to be nervous; a healthy dose of fear before making a decision was normal.

But she shouldn't let that dictate her decisions.

In the last few weeks she and Erick had grown apart. They'd talked less, spent less time together even though they lived together. His confession had made it clear that he wanted to change that. He wanted to do better, to be better. And in turn she wanted to be better for him.

Being afraid and holding herself back from him, not strictly in the sense of intimacy, but from being vulnerable and opening herself to him in all the ways they always had since childhood… being afraid was holding her back from her strongest friendship. Strong, blinding fear that she still wasn't good enough, that she needed to do everything perfectly to be a good wife and mother, that maybe he'd tire of her if she wasn't good enough.

That sort of fear would kill their marriage. She missed that bond, that strong friendship. He was right, and her parents were right. They were a team and they needed to be a team in everything, every day, every hour. And that required trust and sacrifice. It required the choice to relinquish the things you want or might expect out of life and choose to do the right thing and not let fear hold you back.

Wasn't that the very foundation of everything she'd learned in the last year?

Erick reached up and brushed a tear off her cheek. "What are you thinking about?"

Adrianna swallowed. "I want to be better, too. I don't want to live in fear anymore or feel insecure about everything, like I'm not good enough." More tears splashed down her face and Erick gently brushed them away. "I have to stop holding myself to all these heightened expectations. I know you don't expect anything from me, so I don't want to put you on this pedestal as if everything that happens has to meet your approval. You never were that kind of person, and I'm sorry if I ever made you feel that way."

"No," Erick shook his head. "Never, Annie. I work myself into a tizzy on my own. You've never made me feel like you expect me to go above and beyond. But on the same token, I don't want you to ever feel like you have to do what I expect. You are first and foremost my friend and my wife. I want you to be happy and comfortable, and if that means sacrificing my own happiness, then so be it. I love you, Annie. Don't ever change."

With a choked sob Adrianna threw her arms around his neck. He held her so tightly she could scarcely breath, but she didn't care. A feeling of warmth and security swept through her, lightening her heart and soul. Smoothing those hard, bitter edges that had crept in unawares. In the weeks of busyness and change, they'd lost communication along the way. And she was ever so grateful that they'd picked up on it early. Perhaps she had her parents to thank for that as well.

It could have been a few minutes or an hour, but it felt like the hug lasted forever, warm and comforting. Her tears had dried, but he continued to hold her until he knew she was ready to let go.

In the light of their newfound resolutions, she remembered the whole reason she was pressed up rather uncomfortably against the back of the couch. She fought the urge to smile, deeming it a bit of a strange time to do so.

"What?" Erick whispered.

Of course, he'd noticed. Turning her face so her mouth was against his ear, she murmured, "So when are you going to call in that rain check?"

Erick pulled back, keeping his arms banded around her waist as he scanned her eyes, noticing the relief she felt inside and perhaps noting the tinge of mischief returned to her voice.

"That," he said slowly. "All depends on m'lady."

"M'lady is waiting." Adrianna whispered.

She'd expected him to blink or swallow or shyly look away, like he used to when they'd first gotten married, when they first began learning the art of this coy sort of dance. This time he kept his eyes level with hers, unblinking as one of his hands slid beneath her shirt and slid up the skin of her back in a slow movement.

Her breath hitched slightly when the other joined, his palms sliding beneath the band of her bra and pulling her flush against him. Her hands on his chest, she swallowed thickly at the desire in his eyes, which were still level with hers.

"Are you sure?" Erick asked again, intent on ensuring that she wanted to, but still curling his fingers against her skin that sent shivers up her spine. Well, how could she not with such a simple touch causing her breath to catch in such a way?

Thoughts and desires and memories flashed through her mind, of everything she'd experienced with him before. The end days of pregnancy had turned her off to the idea, then with the healing process after giving birth, the whole thing had sounded undesirable, but now, she wanted… she wanted.

Grabbing his face, Adrianna pulled his mouth to hers. Erick sighed, maybe in relief or pleasure, maybe both, but he kissed her back fervently. It was like every tether he'd been holding on himself snapped. He leaned into her, holding her steady as his hands held her in place while his mouth moved quickly against hers, swallowing her moan when he bit her lip.

His mouth was hot against the skin of her jaw and neck, her own breath loud in her ears. Gods, she hadn't felt this in too long-

"Annie." His whisper of her name was like a plea, a question he'd been ignoring for countless weeks while he gave her time, sacrificed his own needs or desires for her, always for her. "Annie, I need to hear you say it."

Adrianna brushed his wavy hair out of his eyes, already messy from running her hands through it. "Yes." Her voice was hushed and higher than usual. "Always, yes."

Erick kissed her once firmly before taking her in his arms, much to her surprise, and carrying her to their room. She squealed at the tickling sensation of his mouth against her neck and he hushed her with a short laugh. "Don't wake up the baby or we'll have to cut our fun short."

"I guess we'll have to be fast if that happens." Adrianna said with a roguish grin that made his eyes flare.

"Sometimes Annie," he said, laying her down on the bed and hovering over her. "I wonder if you're a lot more like Finn than you realize, what with that naughty mouth." He ran a finger across her lips and she kissed it gently.

"I don't hear you complaining."

"Quite the opposite," Erick smirked. "I don't shy away from a challenge."

Adrianna choked, ignoring the way he pulled off her boots and threw them over his shoulder with reckless abandon. "Now who's being naughty?"

"Shh," Erick whispered, leaning over her and filling her view with blonde hair and teal eyes. "Try to be quiet."

"Oh I can't tell if you want Darin to wake up or not." Adrianna moaned, running his hands up his back as he mouthed her neck. "So you can take your sweet time or go for a sprint."

Erick snapped back, eyes wide. "Annie!"

"You started it!"

"This is a very serious situation here."

"Oh yes," Adrianna nodded, donning an air of pompousness reserved only for the oldest of councilmen. "Very serious indeed. Why if I didn't know any better, you'd think-"

"Ya know, it's really hard to get in the mood if you don't stop talking."

Adrianna slapped his waist, ignoring his grin. "Oh get off of me, you've lost your chance now." She managed to wriggle out of his grasp but didn't make it far before his arms banded around her waist and pulled her flush against him.

"And just where do you think you're going?"

"I'm going to check on my son, if it's all the same to you."

"Let him sleep. We've got more important matters to attend to."

"If you make one more joke-" Her words choked off in a shriek when he dug his fingers into the soft parts of her waist. She thrashed and twisted, trying to escape his probing fingers but Erick was too fast, pulling her down and tickling more fiercely. Soon her shrieks were rising in volume and filling the house.

"Stop. Screaming." Erick hissed through his own laughter. "You'll wake the baby!"

"Stop stop stop, please!" Adrianna wailed.

Finally he relented, both of them panting and gasping with laughter. He leaned over her and propped his head on his elbow.

"You're really loud, Annie."

"And you're supremely evil," Adrianna said, pausing in the silence to listen. Nothing sounded from the other room. "Seriously-"

"I know, I know," Erick said, fiddling with the material of her shirt. "Lead by example right?"

Adrianna raised a brow and sat up. She turned and straddled his hips, pressing him back down when he tried to sit up in surprise. "Something like that."

The first touch of her lips on his was warm and inviting, soft and gentle, like it always had been, like that very first one they'd shared under the mistletoe. Only now one of his hands slid up her leg to cup her thigh while the other plunged deep in her hair as he deepened the kiss. Soon everything felt hot and she could barely remember anything past his hands and mouth-

Then he sat up and he was pulling her shirt up over her head, touching the skin of her torso as if for the first time, looking at her with such reverence as if she was the most beautiful thing he'd ever seen.

"Don't take this the wrong way," Erick said, voice low and rough as he pressed her back so he was on top of her. "But I'm so glad you're not pregnant anymore."

Adrianna moaned as he kissed her again and again and again. He had a point. In the past they had to work around her pregnant belly, both something they treasured as something special and, well, perhaps a little bit of a hindrance. They'd had to be careful.

But now, with his body flush against hers with nothing between them, it was quite possibly one of the most wonderful things she'd ever experienced. It was ecstasy in the best way, the purest form of torture she'd ever known, and nothing else could best it.

And she was thankful, that she got to have this moment with him, her best friend through many dangers and fears and turmoils, who would do anything for her and their son. Who'd given up so much to protect them when life had been so uncertain. When she thought she'd had no one to turn to, Erick had been there. Always and forever.

No matter what life threw at them next, they'd handle it together, as a team. As a family. Stronger together, never apart. They'd be unstoppable, like a pair of shooting stars in the night whose light would never stop shining.

The constant drip of condensation in the cave had originally been a nuisance, but now it seemed to be one of nature's simpler forms of music. A way to pass the time, to dull the silence. The steady stream of water dripping off stalactites was soothing in a way. Constant, reliable, that steady force of nature.

Unlike so many things in this rotten world, at least water was reliable.

But it was because of the water dripping off the stalactites that pierced the roof like stone-bound icicles that created the mightier force: the stalagmites below. Each seemingly casual drip of water made little difference in its passage from the ceiling to the ground, but in time, the mighty force of nature that was created as a result of nature's patience and resilience and unbending will was extravagant.

This was what Brandyn told himself in the days following the Convocation.

The rug had been pulled out from under him. He'd gotten cocky, arrogant, and hadn't planned to be foiled. He couldn't read minds. How was he to know that Hiccup had figured out his secret?

No, not figured it out. His plan would have been achieved flawlessly if it wasn't for his mother.

A ripple of anger sliced through him, so strong that the grip of the dagger in his hand creaked. He let out a slow breath, willing himself to calm. His mother had always been weak. She'd been taken advantage of her entire life. She'd never been wanted or loved by anyone. In her guilt, of course she'd told Hiccup his secret. Of course, she'd fallen in love with Berk.

He glared at the map of the Archipelago posted on the stone wall, the massive island of Berk that he hated so much. As far as he was concerned, she'd made herself his enemy the moment she'd given up his heritage. That had been his secret to reveal. And it had been foiled months before his knowledge, sparing Adrianna, giving the Haddocks time to plot their countermoves, giving Hiccup all the time he needed to speak to the other Chieftains to rally against him.

This was all his mother's fault.

Still, he couldn't bring himself to have her killed for her crimes. Dagur would have done it with no question. His father was not a man of mercy. He would have killed Lofn within minutes of discovering her betrayal, the depths she was willing to descend to to have a better life.

Didn't she realize that he'd done all of this for her? To provide for her a better life? No, of course she didn't. She was just a stupid slave. Well, Berk could have her. Hiccup and all his precious family could keep Lofn and rot together as a precious family.

All of them, except one.

The scrape of boots on stone sounded down the corridor. It was a few minutes before the individuals arrived. Cale and Dana saluted with their fists over their heart before lowering them.

"We've returned with what you asked for."

Brandyn flicked his eyes to Dana, who perched on the edge of his desk. He wasn't in the mood for her coy games, but she provided the right amount of stress relief when needed. Still, despite her disobedience, getting herself banished from Berk instead of staying there as a spy, had its benefits. She wasn't trained as a spy for nothing. She'd always been light on her feet, stealthy. And if she ever got caught, she fought with the tenacity of a feral cat. Her claws went deep and true, and she didn't quit until her enemy lay dead at her feet.

Noting his silence, Cale reached into his flight suit and pulled out a document. Brandyn snatched it up and read it quickly. More numbers, more money, more this and that. He fought against another flicker of irritation.

Stalactites and stalagmites. Drip by drip, day by day.

Brandyn slapped the paper down. "Anything else?"

"Yes," Dana said with a small twist of her lips. "I have for you… a name."

His interest sharpened. He swiveled to Dana, hating the way her eyes flared with victory that she'd successfully gained his attention at last, and drew out his curiosity as long as possible by dangling the information over his head, forcing him to ask, to bend to her will.

Brandyn leveled a glare at her. He bowed for no one and took orders from no one. Dana was useful, but if she thought for one second that he'd allow her to play this game-

She must have noticed his pulsing anger because she straightened, the amusement replaced with professionalism at once. "Your son's name is Darin."

Darin. His son.

"So it's true then," Brandyn said at last. "She really did have a boy."

Cale rolled his eyes from where he'd leaned against the wall. "I'm not so sure what that has to do with anything, considering we're hiding out in a cave."

"It has to do with everything." Brandyn said, not willing to have this conversation with them again. He didn't have to explain his motives or reasons or decisions. Their job was to accrue information and do what they were told.

Stalactites and stalagmites. Their finite minds couldn't handle, couldn't comprehend the bigger picture. It would take time to rebuild, to pull some strings here, to cut ties there. To build strong allies and eliminate foes. But day by day, drip by drip, he would rebuild his empire. He would reclaim what was rightfully his.

And one day, he would watch Berk burn to the ground.

Flipping the dagger in his hand, Brandyn spun and hurled it at the map with every piece of anger and rage burning in his soul. It plunged two inches deep into the stone wall over the island of Berk, resting peacefully in an ocean full of enemies.

"Gather the men." Brandyn hissed. "We have work to do."

This is Berk.

From our families to our friendships, relationships are the most important aspect of our lives here. We love each other unconditionally, whether related by blood or not, and we respect even those we may not personally like because it is the right thing to do.

But love isn't an emotion. It's not the blissful feelings of romance or the admiration of someone we respect. It is the constant decision we make every single day to put others' needs above our own and fight for those who cannot fight their own battles.

Love is a choice. Choosing to love is the best thing we can do for one another, even when it's difficult. Especially when it's difficult. No one is perfect, and it is because no one is perfect that we must love each other even more. The greatest blessings in life come from our love for each other, even through all the hiccups along the way.

THE END

Welp that was a four and a half year project and WOW, I can't believe it's already done!

I've gotten an associate's degree, made 2 games, had one game played by a youtube celebrity, included a character from this very game in said game, and even included cameos from a few other GUH characters, including Gen, who at that point had not even been introduced to you guys yet! That's on top of everything else, which would take too long to get into. Suffice it to say, it's been a crazy but awesome 4 years!

Just… wow. This story has been a huge blessing. Thank you all so much for being there with us through these ups and downs. Through these hiccups in life. You all mean a lot to us. Come join us on Discord! The link is in a few author's notes of this story!

I don't think I'll be uploading the unused sections of this story. First off, there are a lot, second, there's no real reason to do so. They were unused for a reason!

Anyway, don't forget to review! We can't wait to get StF to you guys soon!

~Katie