Heart of a Berserker: Trust (School of Dragons)

Chapter 15

"We're born alone, we live alone, we die alone. Only through our love and friendship can we create the illusion for the moment that we're not alone." — Orson Wells

Chapter 15

I ignored Astrid's pestering questions. It had been a long day, and I was not ready to talk about it. Even I did not understand everything yet. I needed time to digest all that happened. So, the next morning, I took a long walk with Bolt to think everything over.

Ever since Harald showed up, my life had become totally unpredictable. Somehow, I was slowly becoming used to it. I enjoyed it, even. Now my biggest fear was that it would have to eventually end. I remembered what Harald had asked Hiccup. Had he actually meant it? I could never go with him, of course, but the thought that he wanted me with him warmed my heart.

I had not figured out much of anything by the time I returned to camp. I spotted Harald at once, and we locked eyes. Why did I suddenly feel so nervous? Bolt nudged me forward with his snout, nearly causing me to stumble. Harald noticed and watched in amusement.

"Silly dragon," I said, shooting him a look.

"I think he likes teasing you too," Harald said.

I rolled my eyes. "Lucky me."

"Anyway, do you know what's wrong with your friend Snotlout? He sounds a bit... nutters. He kept rambling on about 'he's sick' and 'poor armor.' It sounds like he might have an obsession, mate."

I cocked my head to the side. "What's wrong with him? Where do I start? I think he was dropped on his head as a baby - and knowing his father, that's highly likely. He's always coming to me with his crazy concerns, like there is a sea monster in the ocean (it was narwhals) or the sky is on fire (it was the Northern Lights)."

Harald laughed. "Mental health aside, he asked me to tell you in confidence to meet him at Armorwing Island. It sounds like a bit of fun! I'll follow behind you in my ship, if you don't mind. I could do with a bit of laugh!"

"Sounds good to me." 

I climbed onto Bolt and took off while Harald set sail on his ship. I kept a steady pace so he could keep up with me. We arrived at Armorwing Island at the same time and found Snotlout on the shore.

"Hey Brennda, Harald," Snotlout said. "What are you doing here?" 

"You say that like you didn't ask us to meet you here," I said.

Snotlout frowned. "Well, since you are here, I can use your help. There's a big problem!"

"Tell us what you need, mate," said Harald.

Snotlout opened his mouth to speak, but then a curious look crossed his face as he looked at me. "Hey, where did you get that flower?"

I realized he must have been talking about the hairpin. I cast an uneasy look at Harald. "Well, um, we went to this festival last night-"

"And it's a symbol of-"

Eyes wide, immediately turned on Harald and placed my hands over his mouth to prevent him from speaking. "Don't you dare finish that! You've caused enough trouble." I waited a moment and then cautiously lowered my hands.

"But it's only the truth, love," he said.

Wincing, I turned back to Snotlout. "You said you needed help?"

Snotlout watched us in amusement. "You know, I like you, Harald. No one else can break Brennda's calm and collected attitude like you can."

I glared at him. "Thanks, Snotlout."