Hiccup, the Womanizer (A Httyd Fanfiction)

Chapter 33: Astrid

A/N: Sorry for the wait, things in my life have kept me busy. Anyway, in this chapter, Hiccup and Astrid have some time as husband and wife, and the story picks up.

(Rome)

Prince Heahmund of the Roman Catholic Church kneeled at the altar of the holy church, the heart of Catholicism in Rome, and prayed. "In nomine Patris et Filii et Spiritus Sancti," he murmured, invoking the Holy Trinity. His heart was heavy with the burden of his mission.

The candles flickered, reflecting the turmoil brewing within him. Heahmund was a warrior priest, consecrated to God and sworn to protect the Church. The shadow of the pagan King Hiccup Haddock III loomed over Europe, a dragon rider whose very existence was a challenge to the sanctity and unity of the Church.

Heahmund looked up at the crucifix, its figure of Christ a reminder of sacrifice and ultimate strength. "Grant me the power to protect the faithful, Lord, to vanquish those who threaten Your kingdom on Earth," he whispered, feeling a surge of divine resolve rising within him. "The Vikings are but one of many pagan threats the Church faces. And I fear that in time, the pagans will bring us to our knees. But while you still give me breath, I will never allow these devil worshipers to defile these holy lands nor desecrate the Church itself."

Once more looking up at the crucifix, the Catholic prince pursed his lips and exhaled shakily. "As my new army sets off to strike down the Viking scourge, I pray that you would grant me and the men and women who fight for the cause of Christ the strength to slay every last man, woman, and child that is stained with devilry and paganism," nodding firmly, fierce determination and fanatical zeal coursed through his veins as he concluded softly. "May your will be done, Lord."

The echo of his prayer seemed to linger in the vast chamber, intermingling with the distant, muted chants of monks. Heahmund rose from his knees, his purpose clear and his spirit fortified. He would lead the charge against Hiccup and his Viking horde, defenders of an ancient faith that sought to undermine the foundation of Christendom.

As he walked out of the church, the golden light of dawn broke through the clouds, casting a divine glow on the cobblestones. He knew that a great battle lay ahead, but he trusted in God's will and the righteousness of his cause. And so, with a holy resolve, Prince Heahmund prepared to face his formidable adversary, ready to protect the sanctity of the Church at all costs. However, before reaching his horse, he was approached by Bishop Canus, a venerable figure clad in ornate religious vestments, gazed upon Heahmund with a sense of concern as well as determination. Canus was accompanied by the inner circle of the Roman Catholic Church as they gathered around the warrior prince, creating a sacred and imposing atmosphere. Cardinals and bishops, in their vibrant robes, chanted prayers in Latin, invoking divine protection and strength for the impending war the Church would bring to Hiccup Haddock III and his kingdom.

"Prince Haehmund, is this wise? You will soon be crowned as Pope of the Church, and you risk much by marching the army you have raised into battle—"

Turning to the bishop, Haehmund replied sternly. "The transfer of power can wait, the Viking threat cannot wait," he then continued in a dire tone. "If you have seen the threat these Vikings and their dragons pose, then you would understand why I do this. But alas, you do not."

Realizing there was no point in persuading Haehmund to change his mind, Canus raised his hands, signaling silence from those gathered around. The murmurs hushed as he stepped closer to Heahmund. His eyes, full of wisdom and the weight of his responsibilities, met the young warrior's gaze. "Heahmund," he began, "you are the sword of the Church, chosen by God to defend the faith and our people in Europe. As you go forth to battle, know that you carry not only the hopes of Rome but also the blessing of God."