The Gentle Sniper

Chapter 13: Deception Game

Gobber sighed as he watched Hiccup pace the width of his office, arms crossed and teeth clenched as he moved, refusing to look his superior's way.

"Laddie-"

"Shut up."

"Hiccup-"

"Shut the fuck up."

"Haddock-"

"Four years Gobber," Hiccup said curtly, without pausing in his movements. "After keeping a secret like this for that long, and after the death of Ug, No-name, Teeny and Eret, what makes you think you have the right to speak to me? You or my Dad?"

"I wanted to tell you sooner, but of course your father got involved. You try convincing him of anything when his mind is made up, particularly something concerning your safety, such as this. You've seen what Drago can do."

"I don't see how my father could stop us from talking in here. He's not stopping us from talking right now at least. Also, I think I can look after myself, despite what my dad thinks. Give me one good reason why I shouldn't just walk out right now and leave you two to handle Drago by yourselves, since you're clearly doing a great job at the moment."

"I can think of two reasons. Lieutenant Fishlegs Ingerman and Captain Camicazi Berthadottir. You leave, one of them will probably be sent to Valhalla. But of course, I can't blame you if you do leave."

"Damn right you can't," after saying this, Hiccup sighed and stopped pacing the room, retreating into his thoughts.

I need a way to reach Drago.

But Viggo, Ryker and our guests most likely won't give his location up, if they know where the CEO is at all.

So how...?

Olaf Thorston .

"What are you thinking about, laddie?" inquired Gobber, drawing Hiccup's attention again.

"You don't deserve to know."

"Wait, Hiccup-" he heard Gobber say, but chose to ignore him as he left his superior's office and headed down the hallway, peering into Stoick's office as he passed by and spotting the lawyer inside, conversing with his father.

Knocking on the door once, Hiccup entered without getting an answer, gaining a glance from the occupants within.

"Hello, sir, Olaf."

"How can I help you, Captain Haddock?" asked Stoick.

Only when the door shut behind him did Hiccup reply, turning to look Olaf in the eye. "I became aware of some rather distressing news recently, which, as a result, makes me want to contact your boss through you."

The lawyer raised an eyebrow at Hiccup, while he noted that his father was watching him with something akin to trepidation. "Oh?"

"Yes indeed. I'm suing your boss - Drago Bludvist - for the suspected bribery of Military personnel. Spread the word. I'll be available to discuss the matter further tonight, at 8pm sharp, if you or your boss feel so inclined to pay me a visit."

Stoick's jaw dropped. "Where did you hear that name?"

However, he was ignored by both Hiccup and Olaf. "Very well, I shall pass your message on to my client. If he agrees to meet, then I shall see you tonight."

Hiccup nodded and turned to leave. "Good day to you then, Olaf Thorston."

"Wait," said Stoick. "Hiccup, we need to talk."

"Sorry, sir. How I heard about Drago is classified. Good day to you, sir."

Once outside the room again, Hiccup turned in the direction of the exit from the base and started walking while taking out his phone.