The Soul of a Dragon

Chapter 80

Hiccup

It's a perfect day, one of those days that are becoming normal, where the air feels alive with joy and laughter. The entire village is buzzing, and I'm honestly amazed by how happy everyone seems. Ruffnut is in a heated discussion with her new love, Calan, about the "right" way to make yak stew, and from the way she's waving her arms, it's a miracle he's not running for the hills. Love can be baffling, but it's beautiful to see. Tuffnut is nearby, with Liv at his side, watching his sister's antics and muttering about her finally finding "someone who can handle her craziness, so he won't have sole custody of her anymore." I think he's genuinely happy for her, and, well, everyone else too.

I look over and spot Eret, standing off to the side, laughing with a man we've been seeing in his vicinity more often now - a kind-hearted blacksmith with arms like tree trunks and a shy grin that's quickly softened Eret's typical brooding expression. They look so at ease, like they've finally found a place where they don't have to hide who they are. I do notice Eret looking around nervously sometime, but nobody is judging him around here. If they do, they're gonna have to go through me. Snotlout, meanwhile, is showing off to Ragna, flexing his arms with exaggerated confidence while she rolls her eyes, clearly unimpressed. But there's a glint in her eyes, and when he stumbles over his words, she punches his shoulder with a smirk, murmuring, "You're cute, you know that, my little Lout?" He blusters, trying to act unfazed, but the grin he gives her is genuine.

Nearby, Astrid is sharing a moment with Heather, both of them smiling as they talk about the future of New Berk. They are my favourite couple, to be honest - aside from my woman and I, of course. Fishlegs, who's busy as always, apparently met someone new, though we don't know who he or she is. He looks as happy and flustered as I've ever seen him, though. He's gone even shyer, which is saying something for him, and I can see his excitement even from across the square.

As I take it all in, a quiet feeling of peace settles over me. This village, these people - they're family. They've become my everything. Especially the fantastic and beautiful woman who I am lucky enough to have by my side - she's my home. And while my heart aches a little with the knowledge that Toothless might not be here much longer, I remember my father's words: A chief protects his own. This is my world, and I'll do everything to keep it safe.

I turn to find Vara, but she's nowhere to be seen. I know she's been struggling to put on that new dress she's been nervous to wear, so I head to her hut and knock softly. She has never had the luxury of new clothes as she only ever wore clothes that were practical for dragonriding or fighting. When I gave her the dragon suit I made for her, she was ecstatic. So, recently, I crafted a dress for her.  I will always remember the tear that rolled down her cheek when I silently gave it to her. She tried to thank me, but no words cane out, and I only smiled as broadely as I could. I love this woman so much. I want to give her the entire world.

I walk to our hut, which is technically still mine, but to me it's ours. When I almost walk past the bedroom room, I hear a faint sigh, followed by a quiet sniffle.

I can't help but frown as I knock, just loud enough for her to hear. I hope she's not crying because of the dress. "Need some help?"

There's a pause, then the door cracks open, and I'm greeted by a rather disgruntled-looking Vara, struggling with a tangled mess of fabric and ribbons. She lets out an exasperated sigh, rolling her eyes. We lock eyes and cannot help but laugh. "Yes, please. I feel so pathetic for not knowing how to put this on, I am so sorry."

I chuckle deeply, stepping inside, and gently untangle the ribbons. „Don't say sorry. Who knows, maybe I designed it in a way that makes sure you depend on my help." She elbows my gut in answer and I laugh again. She makes me happy. My hands brush her shoulders as I adjust the dress, and for a moment, I feel her steadying warmth, grounding me. There's a soft, peaceful silence between us, and I know this is where I belong.