A/N: Things to expect in this chapter include the following— sex, intense blood and gore, and scheming. With that said, let's get to it!

(Normal pov)

Dusk had fallen in Fang Nation, and for General Hannibal Barca II, it meant that his day had been well spent in service to his master, Drago Bludvist. The Carthaginian general stood on the bridge of his flagship, The Elegy, as it was sailing back into the artificial canal that Fang Nation's capital was built upon, and where the rest of the Northern Alliance fleet was anchored. It didn't take long for the Carthusian warship and a detachment of the Northern Alliance fleet to drop anchor around the imperial city, forming a defensive ring. The Dragon Flyers soon took to the sky and had their Singetails carry massive basins full of magic matter that they bleed from the mountain it was stored in back to the city so that they can begin to forge weapons out of them and deal with the Druun if they chose to attack.

As for Hannibal Barca II himself, he descended from the great Carthaginian general, Hannibal Barca, who fought the Roman Republic many years ago. Being descended from a mighty military lineage meant that Hannibal faced great pressure in bringing honor and glory to his family name. When Drago came to conquer Carthage, he knew of their history, culture, and ways, holding the Carthaginian people in high regard; many of the Carthaginian people were either Dragon Flyers or served under Hannibal Barca II's banner.

"You seem pleased with yourself, General Hannibal."

Turning to his right, the Carthaginian general laid eyes on Askari of Ashes, the leader of the Dragon Flyers, as the man looked down to the deck of the ship and chuckled as he gestured to the massive basins of magical matter meant to force the Druun into Drago's thralldom. "We've done the impossible and return to our master with his prize," he then continued. "It's only a matter of time before the Druun will be nothing more than an unbreakable force that will force many people and future enemies into submission."

"True," Hannibal then continued. "So long as we complete our master's ambitions and conquer this world and cut away the weakest of mankind." The Carthaginian then inquired. "Tell me, the one called the Dragon Master, what form of man was he?"

Askari removed his flyer helm and looked the general in eyes. "Unlike our master, the Dragon Master is not physically intimidating. However, from what I've been told by your men, this lone Viking has single-handedly crippled the Northern Alliance when so many before had failed in the attempt," Askari then continued. "I would advise the utmost caution, when I last encountered this Viking, he fought with wild bloodlust; he wants revenge for what we did to the Viking people, and he will not stop until we're all put to grass."

"Regardless of his intentions to see us all to our deaths, he is but one many, and we are many," General Hannibal then gestured to the basins on the deck of his flagship. "With these, we will replenish our numbers and wash away those who stand in our way in rivers of blood. Now, take these to our master, you know he's not fond of being kept waiting." Humming in agreement, Askari left the Carthaginian general and mounted his Singetail before taking one of the basins back to the imperial city.

General Hannibal Barca dwelled on Askari's words and how the Dragon Master intends on killing every last one of them, the thought made the Carthaginian general snort. "We are many, you are but one," he murmured to himself. "And you will die in these lands alone, and forgotten, Dragon Master."

Chief Virana had concluded her duties for the day and was relieved because she could sink into a scented bath to help relieve the stress clinging to her like leeches draining her of blood. It had been a truly grueling day for her; not only bearing the heavyweight of ensuring her people's well-being but also the fact that she had willingly bowed before the man who had robbed her of her husband. It pained her to do so, but Drago was a man not to take lightly, he was a man who acted out of base impulse, and after threatening the lives of the people of Fang Nation, Virana knew she had to make a strong moral decision and do what's best for her people and her daughter. While walking back to her bed chambers, Virana lifted up her scepter and gazed at the gem piece, all the lives that were either lost or taken against their own will just to acquire the Dragon Gem itself filled Virana with shame, despite Drago commanding her and Namarri to take the gem, they could've easily refused to do so, however, the people of Fang Nation would be put to the slaughter for their defiance.

"Sister."

Turning around, Virana laid eyes on her sister, Mahalia, who was adorned in council robes and gilded claws attached to her right hand. She also bore the same hairstyle as she did, except her hair wasn't dyed silver. Mahalia could see that familiar look of melancholy on her older sister's face, causing her to raise a questioning eyebrow. "Why feel shame for what you did, sister? You did what you had to do, for the sake of our people and culture," Mahalia continued. "Had you not bowed, Drago would've killed you without hesitation, and you would be reunited with your husband—"

"Perhaps it's better that I do join him in death," Virana said before looking into her sister's eyes. "I may have stayed Drago's hand for the time being, but he's not to be trusted, any one of us who do is a fool who deludes themselves. Which is why I intend on seeing that monster brought to the end he deserves."

Noting the bloodlust in her sister's voice, Mahalia then inquired carefully. "What have you done?"

"I've assembled the Serlot's Claw in the hopes of assassinating Drago, yet they will use weapons from members of that madman's crumbling junta. When the rest of these foreigners and killers see that their master is dead, they will tear each other to pieces. And should they be fanatical and move to fulfill Drago's mad ambitions, we will raise our army against them, sink their armada, and send them all to their deaths," Virana then gave her younger sister a questioning look. "Can I rely on you, when the time comes?"

"Of course," she reassured. Reaching for her sister's hands, Mahalia smiled and said firmly. "You are my sister, and I stand by you, no matter what." Smiling at her sister's words, Virana murmured words of thanks.

However, the two sisters were unaware of one of Drago's Hands lurking around a corner who had overheard their conversation. The elite warrior then fled just as Virana and Mahalia went their separate ways.

Drago resided in his chambers provided by Virana, he was formulating a plan of attack to confront the Druun, looming over a table with maps and charts that told him where the Druun were located. Ever since he took hold of the magical matter that morphed into a mighty sword, his left arm which had been restored to him thanks to the Druun had withered and died and was instead replaced with the same matter that can kill the Druun. Suddenly, a raspy snarl filled Drago's ears, causing the war master to take hold of his elemental sword and point it at the entity that now stood before Drago.

"Do you believe me a fool, human?" The entity snarled out in offense. "Despite your valiant efforts to shield your mind's true intentions from me, your plans for the Druun were laid bare for me to judge. You would attempt to enslave us with that matter or if the task is too great, you'll use the power of Sisudatu and her gem to expel us from this world permanently this time."

Grunting in affirmation, Drago paced back and forth while giving the entity a malicious smile. "Even regrouped with the remaining half of my junta here, my numbers are still depleted, however, both Fang Nations army and the Druun's numbers will greatly replenish the men I lost on the march here—"

"Insolent wretch! I will see to it personally that you suffer for attempting to enslave us!"

Smirking, Drago, pointed the elemental sword at the entity, and silver flames rose from the blade and illuminated the chambers, effectively harming the entity and causing it to hiss and snarl in discomfort. "So long as my followers and I wield what can destroy you and all the Druun, your threats are null and void," Drago then continued. "You will serve me, and if not, you will be destroyed." The entity merely growled in response before dissipating, leaving Drago alone.

Although the entity was a superior being and the Druun is an indomitable force, Drago has been alive long enough to learn and discover that all who oppose or stand in his way of conquering the world have weaknesses. He held in his possession the means of weakening and destroying the Druun, if he was to take command of them, he would need to challenge the one who leads them.

When the entity would no longer be of concern, Drago would command the Druun and use them in his future conquests. The prospects of commanding such a force made the war master chuckle darkly, none would oppose him and none would dare challenge him.

"This world will be mine," he said firmly. "And nothing will stand in my way. Least of all you, Hiccup Haddock."

A series of knocks caused Drago to turn to his door, he then approached and opened the door, revealing one of his Hands, who bowed their head in greetings. "Speak," the war master said firmly. "What have you discovered?"

"Chief Virana plans on unleashing a group of highly skilled Fang Nation warriors upon you, they are called the Serlot's Claw," the Hand then continued. "These warriors will assassinate you with weapons our allies wield, which will ultimately cause more infighting amongst us and will destroy the Northern Alliance in the end." The Hand noted how Drago said nothing but him in brief acknowledgment, the warrior then inquired. "Shall I deal with Virana and her sister for conspiring against you, master?"

"No, let them believe they still have the element of surprise," Drago then grinned maliciously. "When the time comes, I will deal with Virana myself, and see her reunited with her husband in death."

Night had fallen on Fang Nation, and within the imperial city, all was quiet; citizens were commanded to obey a strict curfew while Fang Nation warriors and those in the Northern Alliance patrolled the streets, manned vulnerable points of entry, or stood like sentries on the walls. On the outskirts of the canal, the Shrimporium floated gracefully while the occupants onboard the boat were waiting for a signal from Noi and her Ongis, much to Hiccup's disapproval. When they would receive the signal, both Raya and Hiccup would infiltrate the imperial palace and go about deprecate tasks— Raya was to confront Namaari and persuade her to join them to fight Drago and Hiccup was to assassinate both Chagatai Khan and Griselda the Grievous. The four small trouble makers had been gone for thirty minutes and everybody was starting to get antsy.

"If she refuses to help, we've just flushed our tactical advantage into the dung pot!"

Tong spoke the truth, if Namaari was unmoved by Raya's words and sounded an alarm, they would all be captured, relieved of the gem pieces in their possession, and most likely face grim deaths. Raya turned to the large warrior from Spine Nation and replied back. "Yes, Tong, I know."

"Yeah, she has no reason to help us."

Turning to Boun, Raya exhaled. "I know—"

"This jerky is terrible."

"I know!"

"Are you certain those four miniature menaces will be successful?"

Turning back to Tong, Raya pinched the bridge of her nose and exhaled loudly. "I... don't know," she confessed. "All we can do is pray they don't botch this task."

Snorting, Hiccup shrugged. "Let me know if you see the signal," he swiftly turned on his heels, his cloak billowing behind his stride before adding. "I need to make final some preparations." As he grabbed his satchel, he nodded to himself when he saw the necessary tool he'd need when he sent Chagatai Khan to an excruciating death, the tool in question was a bone saw that he had taken from an abandoned village outside the imperial city. Strapping his satchel around his torso, Hiccup also strapped his Gronckle Iron shield over his shoulders, he still had ample throwing knives laced with Slitherwing venom, but he would not need them this night. He then took out the gilded face mask that Fang Nation assassins wear and placed it on.

"Are you ready for this?"

Turning around to face Raya, the vengeful Viking raised a questioning eyebrow. "Are you?" He then stood up straight and continued. "Tonight you face the woman who essentially caused the Druun to once again sow chaos across Kumandra and who inflicted you so much pain and hurt. Are you ready to balm old wounds and to see the greater picture?"

Raya had been asking herself that question ever since they left Heart Nation that morning, it would take some time to forgive Namaari for her actions, but Raya knew that if they had any hope of expelling the Druun and Northern Alliance from their world, they would need Fang Nation and all of Kumandra to come together as one people.

"Yes, I believe I am," Raya said firmly. "If we're to overcome our enemies, Namaari and Fang Nation will play a critical role in aiding us."

Suddenly, a firework ascended before imploding, causing everyone on board the Shrimporium to share looks before Hiccup shrugged. "I guess that's the signal," he then turned to Raya. "Let's go." Nodding, the princess followed the Viking off of the Shrimporium and onto the canal bank.

"We're out of range and distance from the enemy armada, so we'll be waiting here without drawing attention to our position," Tong said. "Return to us with success."

"Yeah, what he said," Boun said. "I'll have food prepared when you two get back."

Smiling in thanks, Raya then turned to Hiccup and nodded. The two warriors disembarked the boat and raced to the imperial city. While in the dense and thick jungle, Hiccup turned to Raya and inquired. "Where's Namaari located?"

"The tallest structure of the palace is where the royals and their guests of honor reside," Raya pointed out. "It's likely Drago and his warlords reside there too."

Humming, Hiccup followed Raya through the jungle in silence, preparing himself for what he would do to Drago's two remaining warlords. He knew what needed to be done, both Chagatai Khan and Griselda the Grievous killed many of his people as well as those he held close to his heart, and they would pay for that offense with their lives. In no time at all, both warriors reached the imperial city's high walls and then propelled themselves up the walls using their respective tools; Raya using her whip sword and Hiccup using the grappling line inside his shield. Once they were propelled into the air and flew over the sentries manning the walls, they both landed on a nearby rooftop, a structure that was beside the royal palace. Again using the means to take them to the palace rooftop, both young warriors ran along the rooftop before finding an open window and slipping inside undetected.

"Alright, this is where we part ways for the time being," Raya said. "You take care of the warlords and I'll have words with Namaari."

"Right," Hiccup said before speaking up. "Be careful."

Smiling at her Viking companion, Raya nodded her head. "You too," she then added. "I'll meet you back on the roof when I'm able." With that said, the two of them went their separate ways.

This was about to get interesting.

Namaari had finished her evening meditation after a very long, frustrating day. There were many ways she preferred to vent out her frustrations, the first being in the dojo and further honing her prowess as a warrior and the second was meditation. Seated on her meditation pad while breathing in the scent of fragrant candles which burned around her soothed her. She had just finished putting out her scented candles used for meditation when the sounds of screeching Ongis filled her ears and something small had landed on her window ledge.

Confused, Namaari went to investigate why Ongis were outside her window, but all thoughts of looking for those furry troublemakers vanished when she saw what awaited her on the ledge of her window. Picking it up, she unwrapped it and found a neatly folded note and... her old Sisudatu pendant, the one she had given to Raya just before betraying her. Looking at the note, she unfolded it and read the writing.

"I've become too engrossed in the past. I'm ready to begin anew."

Namaari was too deep in her thoughts that she failed to hear her bedroom door open and close softly. However, when a familiar voice filled her ears, Namaari was quickly pulled out of her thoughts.

"I see you got my gift."

Quickly whirling around, Namaari's breath hitched and her heart quickened as she laid eyes on a cloaked Raya who removed her straw hat and smiled lightly at the tense princess of Fang Nation. Heart's princess held her hands up and reassured the tense princess before her. "I'm unarmed, Mari. I came here to talk and to balm old wounds," she then raised a questioning eyebrow. "Can I trust you this time? Or are you going to alert your guards and Drago's men outside of my infiltration?"

"Don't be fooled. Every one of my people within these walls are all prisoners of Drago; although we're free to roam and do as we please, we're watched and those under that madman's command listen for whispers of expelling the Northern Alliance from our lands," Namaari then answered Raya's question. "Yes. You can trust me, Dep La. I swear to you." Fang's princess watched as Raya pursed her lips while narrowing her eyes, silently questioning herself on whether or not Namaari was telling the truth or not. But when she looked into her old friend's eyes, Raya could see the sincerity in Namaari's bronze eyes, with a hint of hope in them.

She was telling the truth.

Grunting softly, Raya took in Namaari's bed chambers and laughed lightly. "I remember when my Ba used to bring me here to speak with your father, we used to do each other's hair here together," Raya smiled before correcting herself. "Or rather, you used to do my hair most of the time we spent up here." Namaari chuckled at Raya's words and nodded, remembering the joyous times they had spent together as little girls.

"Would that we can reverse the sun and relive those days," Namaari sighed before looking at the gilded Sisudatu pendant in her hand. Closing her fingers around the pendant, Namaari then looked to Raya. "Why are you here, Raya?"

Licking her lips, Raya looked at Namaari and spoke firmly. "I'm here to fulfill our father's dream of making Kumandra whole once more. We need to stand together, Namaari," she then continued. "With Drago in command of the Druun and enslaving Fang Nation's army, his junta's numbers have been replenished. He'll then unleash his fury on all of Kumandra; giving us the choice of joining him and his junta or being wiped from history. Tell me you and your people aren't considering his mad ambitions of conquering this world."

"Of course not! We're doing what we have to preserve our people and culture," Namaari then growled out. "The price for our continued existence is bowing down to that... supposed god. I resisted, but for the sake of my people and those I hold close to my heart, I had no choice but to bow."

"I'm sure it wasn't easy, setting aside your desires for the greater good," Raya then murmured. "I know how that feels."

An awkward silence soon fell upon the two women, but Heart's princess decided to change the subject. "You know, I had so many chances to discard the one thing you gifted me, but I never did," she confessed, referring to the Sisudatu pendant. Snorting lightly, Raya continued. "Besides my Ba and people, you were always on my mind; and after much thought over the years, maybe deep down, we still have a chance to balm old wounds." Namaari released a shaky breath and her face lit up with both shock and surprise at Raya's words. "It's going to take a while, yes. But I want to start over, Namaari. Will... that be alright with you? If we start over?" Heart's princess gasped in surprise when her old friend pulled her into a warm, reassuring hug, one that dissolved all of Raya's doubts and fears that perhaps she had burned down the bridge of mending their relationship.

Savoring the feeling of the woman in her arms, Namaari purred in Raya's ear. "Of course, we can start over, Dep La. I swear to you, I won't squander this blessing nor break your trust. Never again," she then inhaled Raya's scent, her nostrils were overwhelmed with the aroma of lotus flowers and scented water and the same meal Benja had prepared for all the nations six years ago, it was a scent that relaxed Namaari a great deal, and it made her feel comfortable. "You don't have to forgive me, Raya, and I wouldn't blame you if you couldn't. But from the bottom of my heart, I'm sorry for what I did to you, your parents, people, and home in the effort to preserve my own from Drago's wrath—"

"Shh," Raya pulled back, cupped Namaari's cheeks, and gave her a warm smile. "I didn't want to believe you were telling the truth when we fought back at Spine Nation, but in your eyes and by the way you poured out your heart to me, I knew you were telling me the truth, even when I was blinded by rage. Let's put the past behind us and let's not repeat the same mistakes." Namaari hummed in agreement and smiled, the yoke of guilt and self-loathing was finally removed from her shoulders at long last, she had Raya's forgiveness and Namaari would not take that for granted. Smiling they came together for another heartwarming embrace, both women sighing happily at the feel of each other in their arms.

However, when the two of them finally broke their embrace, they realized just how close they were to each other, which caused them both to inhale sharply and gaze into each other's wide eyes. The two princesses look into each other's eyes as they suddenly found themselves face to face, their breath was now coming in heavy, nervous gulps. Namaari's grip tightened around Raya's forearms as she feels the warmth of her body pressed against her own. She isn't bulky like Somwang, but she can still feel the firm, lean muscles of her frame, the result of his many hours of training. She flushes a deep red as she stares into Raya's eyes, her heart pounding in her chest.

For her part, Raya can't put a single thought together. She has the woman of her dreams snuggly wrapped in her arms, and by the look on her face, Namaari is just as amazed by this sudden turn of events as she is. Raya can feel her curves pressed against Namaari's own, her quickened breath warming her neck and face, her heart racing along with hers. Involuntarily, Raya's hands tighten upon Namaari's waist as she feels her grip her forearms firmly.

Neither one of them dared to move, the seconds that ticked by seemed like hours. Raya could barely breathe, for fear of breaking whatever magical enchantment was keeping this fine warrior goddess in her arms. She wants nothing more than to kiss her but is terrified at the prospect of rejection. Heart's princess looks at Fang's princess with wide eyes, swallowing heavily as she tries to muster the courage. Namaari watches her with an anxious gaze, biting her lower lip.

Despite all their history together, Raya can't bring herself to kiss the woman that she loves. The fear of rejection is too great. Her gaze falls from hers as she starts to release her.

Namaari tightens her grip on Raya's forearms, holding her hands right where they are on her waist. Raya looks back up at her in shock, meeting her gaze just before she leans in to kiss her passionately, her lips pressing hungrily against Raya's as she yelps against her mouth with surprise. Heart's princess hesitates only for a moment before kissing Namaari back fervently, again gripping her waist firmly.

Namaari moans weakly against Raya's lips as she suddenly and passionately returns the kiss. She then slides her hands up her arms, caressing Raya's neck and face. Her fingers glide through her hair and then she wraps her arms around her neck, deepening their kiss, her tongue pushing its way between her lips.

Raya whimpers as Raya kisses her more intimately, her knees going weak as she leans into her, pushing her back against the table. Raya's arms wrap tightly around Namaari's waist, pulling her form snugly against her own as her tongue entwines with hers. The two women kiss with wild abandon, pressing up again each other as they lose themselves in the moment.

After all their fighting and all the hurtful things they've done to each other, finally, they were mending old wounds and forging a new way to torture each other.

Finally, the need for air is what broke them apart. Namaari brushed her lips over Raya's one final time before pulling back to look at her. Raya's heart flipped at the look on Namaari's face; her eyes were dark and her lips were still slightly parted as she panted lightly. Fang Nation's princess smiled brightly at her and she felt herself respond almost without thinking it. "That was incredible," she added. "You have no idea how long I've dreamed of doing that."

Chuckling at Namaari's words, Raya spoke similar words. "Likewise. Even though I harbored so much resentment and hatred towards you, the love I had for you is what ultimately eclipsed the loathing and bitterness towards you," Raya caressed Namaari's cheeks before speaking with a teasing tone. "I should probably get going—"

"Don't you dare," Namaari hissed like a cat deprived of milk. "You're my guest. And I've yet to repay you for your amazing gift."

Raya grinned at Namaari's firm, yet eager words, but she held no objection towards her desire. She let herself succumb to pent-up desires she held for Namaari and moaned as their lips met again in a deep, passionate kiss. As their kiss grew more heated, Raya soon cast out any thought of returning to the Shrimporium prematurely and simply lost herself to the sensations that Namaari was stoking within her.

She felt like she could go on kissing Namaari forever.

Hiccup moved as a Shadow Walker throughout the palace guest rooms, his footsteps weren't heard as he moved through prestigious the hallways and corridors of fine gold and stone while searching for Chagatai Khan and Griselda the Grievous. He had already killed Ragnar the Rock, but the last two remaining warlords were by far the deadliest to deal with, especially since the two of them were practically joined at the hip, hardly leaving each other's side. As he made his way to a corner, he peaked over it to see his prey entering the room while two of Chagatai's Kheshig stood guard outside the doors. Humming lightly to himself, Hiccup quickly thought of a way to lure the guards away from their posts, he then devised a way to do so.

Whistling, both Kheshig cocked their heads in confusion before leaving their posts to see who it was that whistled so loudly. Sterling his nerves, Hiccup held a dagger in hand and was ready to make his move. When the first Kheshig knight was close enough, Hiccup drove his dagger straight in their throat, silencing them before they could even scream. Before the second Kheshig could react, Hiccup stabbed the Mongol warrior in the larynx and then slit their throat wide open, a geyser of blood sprayed out of their opened throat and soaked the marble floors.

Exhaling, Hiccup found a spot to hide the now deceased Mongol Kheshig, but he knew that it was only a matter of time before the corpses would be found, and the whole of the Northern Alliance would descend upon him with fury.

Making his way to Chagatai's chamber doors, Hiccup gently pushed the door open and inhaled sharply in disgust at the sight of Chagatai Khan and Griselda the Grievous stark naked and engaged in vigorous sexual intercourse. The two warlords were too engrossed in their shameless passions to see Hiccup entering their threshold. However, the two warlords cried out in surprise and shock at the sight of Hiccup when he announced his presence to them both.

"Well now look what we have here, the Mongol cur and his Slavic shrew," he then ignited Inferno before smiling maliciously. "Your deaths will be beyond excruciating." Both naked warlords leaped off the bed they were entwined in moments ago and reached for their armor and weapons. Drawing his bloody dagger, Hiccup hurled the smaller blade at Griselda, however, the Slavic warlord evaded the blade and grabbed her sword before lashing out at Hiccup with an animalistic snarl.

Blocking the incoming blade, Hiccup quickly turned to Chagatai who had both his swords in hand before swinging at Hiccup's head. The Viking ducked the blades before landing a ruthless kick into Chagatai's groin with his peg leg, causing the Mongol warlord to fall to his knees and groan in agony. Turning back to Griselda, Hiccup exhaled sharply as she swung at his throat, be backed away from her blade just into him, but he did receive a precise cut across his left arm, causing him to growl in pain.

"The cock on you, Hiccup Haddock," Griselda growled out before chuckling darkly. "I must admit, this is a blessing in disguise; when Chagatai and I kill you, we'll present your mangled corpse to Drago. And in the act, we'll be elevated in position and status among the Northern Alliance."

This woman killed Dagur, and gutted him like a fish, Hiccup recalled the visions he had of how Dagur met his end at Griselda's hands. Although once his enemy, Hiccup held Dagur close to his heart, and this night, he would avenge his death by killing Griselda the Grievous.

Instead of replying to Griselda's words, Hiccup lashed out at the Slavic warlord, but Griselda jumped in front of his lover and then bashed one of the butt end of his blade against Hiccup's face, knocking off his gilded face mask. Tasting blood in his mouth, Hiccup spat out a mouthful of his blood in Chagatai's face, causing the Mongol warlord to cry out in disgust. Hiccup then proceeded to hack one of Chagatai's swords in half and then drove his right fist into the Mongol's throat, momentary cutting off his airflow.

With a rabid snarl, Griselda lashed out at Hiccup, her blade cutting across his back, though thankfully his leather armor was durable enough to withstand a fatal blow, Hiccup cried out in pain, nonetheless. Whirling around, the young Viking received a vicious left hook to his face, causing him to stumble to the ground. Raising her blade high above her head, Griselda was about to remove Hiccup's head from his shoulders, but the young Viking swept her legs out from under her at the lost second. Hiccup quickly lifted Inferno to stop Chagatai's second blade from splitting his head open, sparks flew in all directions as a result, and Hiccup could see the Mongol's blade glowing red. Pushing Chagatai back, Hiccup ducked underneath Griselda's blade, which sliced off one of the braids Astrid had made back at Itchy Armpit. Seeing his braid of hair on the floor, Hiccup then turned to the Slavic warlord and when she swung her blade at him again, Hiccup hacked her sword in half and slashed up between the valley of her breasts, causing the female warlord to cry out in agony and fall to the floor.

"Griselda!" Seeing his fatally wounded lover, Chagatai turned to Hiccup with his teeth bared. "You will pay for that!" With a cry, the Mongol warlord slashed at the Viking's right leg, but Hiccup used his peg leg to protect himself, he then delivered a strong elbow to Chagatai's face, knocking the warlord to the floor. Kicking the Mongol's only remaining sword away, Hiccup loomed over Chagatai like an executioner ready to deliver a swift and just death to a prisoner sentenced to death. However, Hiccup wouldn't give the Mongol a swift death, he would take his time with him and make him suffer. "What're you waiting for?" Chagatai growled, giving the young Viking a murderous glare. "Finish me."

Scoffing, Hiccup shook his head. "Not yet, your time will come," he then knocked the Mongol out cold by bringing his peg leg down on his head, a sickening crunch filled the room as a result of such a blow. Turning to a gasping Griselda, Hiccup could see her trying to slow her bleeding by grabbing her tunic and pressing it against her wound. Approaching her, Griselda held her breath as Hiccup lifted his right leg and pressed down hard on the female warlord's wound, causing her to cry out in pain. "You, however, your time to die is now." Reaching down to rip the tunic away from Griselda's chest, the young Viking proceeded to break the warlord's arms, preventing her from fighting back or reaching for a nearby weapon. With her arms limp, Griselda was helpless as Hiccup straddled her naked lower half, he then retracted Inferno and clipped it to his side before giving the warlord a murderous grin.

"Have you ever skinned a rabbit before, Griselda?" Seeing her face blanch made Hiccup chuckle darkly as he dove two fingers into the serious wound he had inflicted upon her. "The same concept goes when it comes to skinning people, except your alive and not dead... yet. You will be soon enough." Before Hiccup could begin, he took a severed piece of Griselda's sword and used his other hand to pry her mouth open and breaking her jaw, preventing her from biting his fingers off. With her jaw nothing but dead weight, Hiccup hacked her tongue out of her mouth, silencing her screams and words forever. Tossing the tongue aside, Hiccup then dove his fingers back into her wound and when he had a strong grip, he pulled outwards with all his strength, her skin tore like paper, revealing muscle and bone. Groaning at the stench of her exposed insides, Hiccup steeled his stomach as he looked into Griselda's eyes, pooling with tears and bloodshot, he could see the terror in her eyes as well.

Good.

"Does it hurt?" Hiccup inquired mockingly while continuing to tear her apart, she screwed her eyes shut tightly while tears streamed down her cheeks. "Had I enough time, Slavic shrew, I would not make this quick. I would take my time and savor your squirming and writhing until you beg me to end your life." He continued to pull until her entire chest was exposed. "You killed a friend of mine back on Berserker Island, his name was Dagur the Deranged. Had he survived like me, he would enact the same punishment I'm inflicting upon you, only he'd be far worse in making you suffer. Unfortunately, I don't have the time to savor what I'm doing to you for a long period of time. After all, I still need to deal with your Mongol cur." Griselda's eyes widened in horror as she looked at unconscious Chagatai and then back at Hiccup, pleading him to spare his life with the desperate look in her eyes. Knowing that look all too well, Hiccup scoffed and shook his head. "Mercy? You and all who follow Drago deserve no such courtesy," he emphasised as he continued to tear the skin from the right side of her upper body, up to her arms. The agony caused Griselda to grit her teeth tightly and bury her face in the floor, tears streamed down her face like a fountain as she could do nothing but endure the most agonizing pain she's ever had to suffer. "For all the Vikings and all those you killed that I held close to my heart, I put an end to your pathetic life." Using the severed piece of her sword, Hiccup drove that piece of Slavic steel into Griselda's heart, killing her instantly.

Panting heavily, Hiccup closed his eyes and exhaled slowly. "For you, Dagur," he murmured. "May you rest, knowing that I've ended the life of your killer. Enjoy Valhalla with your mother, your father Oswald, Heather, and all your Berserker kin. I'll be seeing you soon, brother." Removing the blade from Griselda's heart, Hiccup continued to skin the now dead warlord until she was nothing but a mass of muscle and blood. He then hung her flayed skin on her armor rack and left her corpse where it was. Looking down at his bloody hands, Hiccup pursed his lips tightly and then took a deep breath to calm himself, he then turned to Chagatai and growled softly.

It was now his turn to suffer a cruel death.

Raya was pinned against the wall while Namaari began to assault her neck with delicate, soft kisses and licks, causing Raya to gasp sharply and moan in delight. Namaari's ministrations had Heart's princess a writhing, squirming mess, her arousal blazed like a raging fire that was now impossible to put out. One of Namaari's hands were on Raya's clothed belly, it soon drifted down before reaching the hem of her pants and then slipping inside. Feeling how wet Raya was caused both women to moan in delight. "D-Do you feel that, Mari?" Raya gasped against her ear, causing Namaari to nod furiously against the other woman's neck. "Nobody can make me this wet. Only you can do that. You're the first person who's ever done that to me." Her confession caused Namaari to then slip a finger inside Raya's blistering heat and curl her finger upwards, a bolt of pleasure shot up Raya's spine, causing her to close her eyes and release a ragged moan.

Leaning forward until their foreheads pressed against each other, Namaari continued to stimulate Raya's folds, grinning like a cat up to mischief as she savored the sight of Raya squirming because of her actions. Many nights had Namaari dreamed of doing this, now that she was finally touching Raya in such an intimate manner, her dreams did it no justice as she made the woman she loved melt under her touch. "Spirits, you're so wet, Raya," Namaari purred before leaning in and huffing against her lover's ear. "You're practically dripping." Moaning at Namaari's husky tone, Raya could do nothing but lean back and savor the pleasure taking over her.

With each passing second, the room was getting hotter, and the feeling of her clothes clinging to ever-increasing sweaty skin caused Raya to growl in annoyance before pushing Namaari away gently. Stepping back, Fang's princess watched with bated breath as Raya shucked off her cloak and began peeling away the clothes she had on. Stepping back until she was standing in the center of the room, Namaari felt her mouth water when Raya had peeled off every stitch of clothing until she was left in her breast bindings and undergarments. The sight of Raya's dark, toned skin being bathed in the moonlight made Namaari feel lightheaded, this woman was a goddess in human form, and she would do well not to displease her.

Coming together for another passionate kiss, Raya's hands began to tug at Namaari's clothes until Fang's princess laughed lightly at the other woman's eagerness, she then peeled off her clothes until she too was left in nothing but her breast bindings and undergarments. Leaning in, Raya began kissing up Namaari's neck and under her chin, causing the Fang princess to tilt her head back and give her lover more room to give her tender affections. As Raya's hands began to grope her pert backside and her mouth dragged along her throat, Namaari gasped out. "R-Raya, w-wait," ceasing her actions, Raya gave Namaari a questioning look, causing the Fang princess to blush. "I... I've never done this before. Not with a man or a woman."

"Don't worry," Raya whispered before reassuring her. "Neither have I. It's okay." She then slowly began to walk behind Namaari, unfastening her breast bindings before tossing them aside and groping the supple mounds of flesh from behind. Moaning at the feel of Raya's hands on her, Namaari leaned back against Raya's front, biting her lower lip while Heart's princess kissed her cheek while continuing to grope her breasts. While one hand continued to palm Namaari's breast, Raya used her other to slide down her toned belly and stimulate sopping wet folds. The multitude of sensations and pleasure coursing through Namaari's blood caused her to forget all her troubles, her angst, and fears, all that mattered was that she was finally giving in to her heart's desire; being with Raya.

Whirling around to face the woman of her heart's desire, Namaari cupped Raya's face and smashed her lips against her own, causing them both to mewl against each other's lips. They then staggered back before both women collapsed on Namaari's bed. Raya watched with bated breath as Namaari crawled up her body like a feral cat prowling in the grass, she even looked at her with eyes that were blown wide with desire and love, it was an attractive look. Wrapping her arms around Namaari's neck, Raya brought her lover down for another kiss. Drowning in the taste of Raya's lips, Namaari had to pull back, lest she drowns. Her lips then descended along Raya's sternum and down to her still covered breasts, reaching for her breast bindings, Namaari was having a problem with ridding her lover's bindings.

"Problem?"

Laughing, Namaari buried her head in Raya's neck. "I need help," she continued to laugh in both happiness and embarrassment. "I can't undo it." Laughing with her lover, Raya reached behind her back and undid her breast bindings before tossing them aside, revealing her heaving breasts to Namaari, causing her to gasp at the beautiful sight. Carefully cupping Raya's perky breasts, Fang's princess watched with bated breath as Raya inhaled sharply while closing her eyes, clearly savoring the feel of Namaari's hands on her. Leaning down, Namaari took one of Raya's nipples in her mouth, suckling like a babe that craved its mother's milk. Breathing heavily and trying her best not to reach a premature climax, Raya cooed and cradled Namaari to her breast, moaning happily that this was finally happening and that she had taken that leap of letting go of her resentment and anger towards the woman bringing her pleasure, Raya would have to thank Hiccup and Sisu for their counsel.

But that could wait.

When Namaari switched nipples, her free hand drifted back down Raya's sopping folds and began to palm her delicate flower, further fanning the flames of desire and passion. Ultimately, the pleasure was too much, with Namaari's tongue lapping her nipple and her hand palming her folds, Raya could feel her climax approaching fast. "M-Mari, I'm going to cum!" Raya mewled out weakly. "D-Don't you want to—?"

"No, love," Namaari murmured against her breast, she then looked Raya in the eyes and purred. "Go on, cum for me." Her words of encouragement were followed by her ripping off Raya's undergarments, leaving her stark naked on her bed. A sight that Namaari will never forget. She then inserted two fingers inside of Raya and began to thrust in and out at a soft, yet firm pace. Throwing her head back, Raya moaned loudly as Namaari's fingers brought her ever closer to her impending climax. "Cum, Raya. Be a good girl and cum." Namaari's words caused Raya to break, her climax struck her like a tidal wave, and Fang's princess moaned at the sight of her lover sprawled out along her bed and savoring the aftermath of her climax and she savored the feeling of her juices soaking her hand. After catching her breath and recovering from her climax, Raya grabbed the back of Namaari's head and brought her in for another kiss, Fang's princess smiled against her lover's lips and happily returned the kiss. Their passionate kiss led to them switching positions, with Namaari on her back and Raya on top of her, the sight of Raya straddling her made Fang's princess squirm in anticipation and delight.

With a smile, Raya then began to descend her body, caressing her arms, which still bore her gilded arm bracelets. Namaari hadn't removed any of her gilded jewelry off her body, not that Raya minded, she found her lover more appealing with them on, especially with her being bathed in the moonlight and candlelight illuminating the room. Descending further down Namaari's body, Raya peeled off her lover's undergarments until Fang's princess was laid bare before her. Looking up into Namaari's eyes, Raya breathed out. "You've been tense ever since I sunk into your chambers," she then smiled. "Lay back, and relax. Let me take care of you, Mari." Smiling at Raya's words, Namaari nodded then threw her head back in pleasure once Raya began to lick along her sopping folds. Releasing a lewd moan, Namaari's back arched up once Raya's hands slid up and palmed her breasts while she also licked along her sopping vulva.

It was as if all her problems were now gone, with each passing moment, Namaari wasn't concerned about the future of her people, the threat of both the Druun and Drago Bludvist or the fact that the whole world rested on Kumandra coming together as one. For now, it was just her and Raya, succumbing to their desires and indulging in passion. The only sounds filling the room was the lewd sounds of Raya's licking her lover's folds, Namaari's moans of utter delight, and heavy panting coming from them both.

The night was still young, and there was still enough time to savor each other's company.

Chagatai awoke with a groan, he then hissed in pain when he felt as if his skull had been split open, he slowly reached for his head but was stopped by Hiccup, who grabbed his wrist. The Mongol struggled against the Viking's grip, but Hiccup landed a ruthless blow to Chagatai's head, causing the man to groan in agony and pant heavily in discomfort.

"Your time to die has finally come, son of Genghis Khan," Hiccup then flipped the warlord on his stomach before leaning in and murmuring. "Your saga ends here." Drawing his dagger, Hiccup then lowered the blade to Chagatai's back, just to the side of the spine, where it bit into the Mongol's flesh. Hiccup could feel the warlord tense beneath him, but he did not cry out. Even as the Viking cut parallel to the spine, from the uppermost rib to the lowest, the warlord made no sound, apart from the occasional sharp intake of breath. Hiccup then made two more cuts, one each along the highest and lowest rib. Then, as though skinning a rabbit, he peeled the flesh from the warlord's back. Hiccup could hear Chagatai gritting his teeth, trying to hold back a scream.

As Hiccup looked down at the warlord's ribs he had just exposed, he found it amusing, how much the Mongol looked like a partially carved piece of wild game he would have hunted in the forests of Scandinavia. Shaking his head of his now-dead world, Hiccup repeated the process on Chagatai's right side, without compassion or mercy.

This time, Chagatai did scream, and they were more audible, though he still tried to strangle them behind his teeth. It wasn't enough to stop the whole palace from hearing him.

Hiccup knew that even though he had barred the door to Chagatai's chambers shut, he would need to move swiftly. Even though he wanted to take his time in killing the Mongol warlord.

Hiccup discarded the bloody knife and reached for his satchel to replace the knife he had just wielded with a bone saw. He took the instrument, usually only used in dire circumstances where the loss of a limb would allow the owner to survive, to one of the warlord's ribs. As Hiccup began to ruthlessly cut the bone, Chagatai whimpered. The painful vibration as the saw moved back and forth, biting bone and flesh, became too much.

Chagatai surely should've passed out by now, Hiccup looked at his blood-covered hands and his shaking victim. He should be on his way to Hel soon enough.

Closing his eyes, Hiccup had cut through the first rib and now came the worst part. With one hand steadying the spine, Hiccup gripped the severed rib. And pulled, violently.

One moment the bone was where it should be. The next it was pointing skyward. And Chagatai was screaming with all his might. It was a loud, wordless scream, telling of pain so awful that agony was too mild a description. Hiccup forced himself to listen to the scream, he reveled in it. How many of his people had Chagatai killed without companion or mercy? Too many. Now, he was meeting an end that was so cruel that it would send fear throughout all in the Northern Alliance.

Only when the Mongol's scream subsided did Hiccup once again take the saw to the bone. Tears leaked from Chagatai's eyes as the second rib was severed. Though he gritted his teeth as Hiccup once again closed his eyes and violently pulled on the bone, another primal scream escaped Chagatai. And then Hiccup moved to the third rib.

Again and again, Hiccup cut through the bone. Again and again, he closed his eyes and savored the screams of agony that fled from Chagatai's mouth. Again and again, he pulled on the rib, pointing it at the sky. Again and again, Chagatai screamed. But this time it wasn't wordless.

"G-GRISELDA!"

Hiccup chuckled darkly as he then grasped the fourth rib and, without sawing through the bone, he broke it, aligning it with the others.

Chagatai wailed.

Hiccup started on the warlord's other side, grabbing hold of the rib opposite the first to be broken. With a snap, it joined the others.

"G-Griselda!"

"Your whore can't help you, Mongol cur," Hiccup snarled as he then broke the sixth rib. "I skinned her alive, like a rabbit." He then lifted the Mongol's head to Griselda's armor rack, where her naked skin rested and her corpse at the base of the rack.

"G-Griselda," Chagatai sobbed. It was obvious that all the strength that the Mongol warlord had, surprising as it was, was now gone. He didn't even scream as the seventh rib was pulled from his back. He couldn't, he had lost the woman he wanted to share his life with.

As Hiccup gripped another bone. It was nearly over; this would be the last break. He looked down at the bloody mess that had been Chagatai Khan. Still alive, still breathing; barely. Still conscious, still suffering greatly.

Alarmed voices could be heard approaching, and Hiccup cursed under his breath. It was time to end this. He then broke the eighth rib as he had done for the others. Chagatai barely reacted this time. Perhaps he was finally slipping from Midgard.

The four ribs jutting out from either side of Chagatai's back looked like bloody wings. The Blood Eagle. But there was one more thing to do.

Hiccup put his already blood-covered hands into the holes he had made in his victim. He then reached inside and pulled out two lumps of meat. The lungs. For a moment Chagatai let out a panicked cry, not being able to breathe. Ultimate, he relaxed until finally, death took him.

Knowing that it was risky, Hiccup decided to add the finishing touch to what he had to Drago's two remaining warlords. He quickly displayed both mangled warlords for all to see and for all to fear his wrath. Incredibly, Hiccup had been able to finish his gruesome display and carve a message into Chagatai's best before jumping out the window of the warlord's bed chambers just as the doors were kicked down. As he fell, Hiccup pulled out his shield and fired a grappling line which he then used to propel himself up onto one of the nearby palace rooftops.

"Now, all that's left to do is wait for Raya."

"A-AH! Spirits!"

Namaari loomed over Raya, with a gilded phallus in her hand, driving the instrument of pleasure in and out of Raya's folds. The two women were sleeked in sweat, their bodies entwined in the most passionate ways possible, and the love they bore for each other burned bright in the night. Closing her eyes and savoring the feeling of Namaari's phallus spreading her insides open, Heart's princess had a hand on Namaari's chest and the other grasped the back of her neck. Raya's moans were like music and Namaari dared not cease her actions until her lover reached another climax, thankfully, Namaari didn't need to wait too long.

"M-Mari. I'm... I'm close!"

"Yeah?"

"Mhmm!"

Leaning down to brush her lips along Raya's sweaty brow, Namaari purred. "Don't hold back, love," she then kissed her forehead and encouraged her. "Cum for me." To help Raya in reaching that blissful end, Namaari drove the phallus in her hand in and out, her pace quickening, the squelching noise of the sex instrument making a purchase with Raya's folds caused Namaari to bite her lower lip and laugh lightly as Raya squirmed and threw her head back as the phallus struck that spot inside her.

"A-Are you sure that... you've never... ah!"

"Never what?"

Looking into Namaari's eyes, Raya laughed. "Are you sure that you've never done this before?" Her words caused both women to laugh lightly while pressing their foreheads together and then sharing a sweet, passionate kiss.

"Is it good?" Namaari purred while grinning mischievously. "The feeling of my gilded cock inside you. Does it feel good?" Biting her lower lip, Raya nodded furiously and held onto Namaari tightly as she then let out a hoarse cry while reaching her climax. Lax and utterly spent, Raya huffed and puffed as she desperately tried to regain her breath, though that was easier said than done thanks to Namaari's efforts. Opening her eyes, Raya gasped at the sight of Namaari taking the gilded phallus to her mouth and licking off some of her juices, the taste of Raya's nectar caused Namaari to moan in delight before purring. "Delicious," setting the phallus down, Namaari then wiped away strands of Raya's hair while smiling at her. "Thank you, for giving me, us, another chance."

Chuckling breathlessly, Raya shrugged. "I was steered in the right direction by Sisu and Hiccup," giving her lover a confused look, Raya then clarified. "Hiccup, the last Viking in the world." Humming in understanding, Namaari then stood up from her bed and approached a table that held a vase of water and a cup. After pouring Raya a cup, she watched as her lover replenished herself with water before handing her the cup and encouraging her to drink as well. When she too had finished drinking a cup of water, she set the cup back down on the table before joining her lover in bed. The two women came together in a warm embrace, naked and entwined. Raya clung to Namaari and buried her head against her lover's breasts. Letting out a coo, Namaari then pressed a kiss against Raya's sweaty forehead and wrapped her arms tightly against Raya's toned body. Noting that Heart's princess was trembling in her arms, Namaari gently cupped Raya's cheek, looked into her eyes, and whispered.

"Are you alright? You're trembling."

Laughing lightly, Raya nodded. "I-I'm fine, it's just... that was amazing," Namaari smiled and then hummed in agreement. Raya then inquired once again. "You sure that this is your first time with a woman? Because you knew what you were doing."

Laughing, Namaari was quick to reassure her lover. "Yes. That was my first time having sex with... anyone. And the fact that you're the one to share this moment with makes it all the more memorable," Namaari wiped away strands of loose hair clinging to Raya's sweaty brow before leaning in and purring against her lover's ear. "I love you, Dep La." Raya gave Namaari a shocked look, but when she looked into her lover's eyes, she saw it in her eyes, Namaari was in love with her.

Reaching out to peck Namaari's nose, Heart's princess gave a similar heartfelt sentiment. "I love you too, Dep La," she shrugged before explaining herself. "I've always loved you, Namaari. Even though I was willing to marry a man of nobility to ensure I secure my bloodline, you're the one who has my heart. You beautiful, feral, cat lady." Smiling at Raya's words, Namaari pulled her lover into her arms, the two women sharing a lover's embrace that caused them both to sigh happily and murmur loving words into each other's ears.

It seemed like a lifetime after they had just finished being intimate together, but Namaari was content to hold the woman she loved in her arms while Raya rested her head against her breasts, clung to her toned torso as if she were a priceless treasure, and the feeling of their naked flesh melding together perfectly. Hearing Raya breathing softly caused Namaari to wonder if her lover had fallen asleep, and as much as Namaari would love to have Raya stay in her bed with her, the risks of discovery were too great.

"Raya?"

"Hmm?"

"As pleasant as this is, you can't stay here, love," Namaari ran her fingers through Raya's hair, causing Heart's princess to sigh contently but also to groan unpleasantly, knowing that they would have to go their separate ways. "Drago's men are still all over this place, if they found you here--"

"They'd kill me, or worse," Raya stated while nodding in understanding. "I don't want to go."

Chuckling at Raya's tone, Namaari shrugged. "I don't want you to go either, but I wouldn't want Drago's men to find you here, drag you out of my bed and force you to give them the remaining gem pieces and Sisudatu herself to further their plans. I would feel much better knowing you're far from harm," Raya pouted like a child, and seeing her lover in this manner caused Namaari to laugh and clutch the princess in her arms all the tighter. "Oh, you're so stubborn."

"And you wouldn't have me any other way," Raya stated with a smirk before regrettably getting out of bed and stretching her stiff, sore muscles. Looking back to the bed, Raya noted how her lover devoured her her eyes shamelessly and with blatant desire in her eyes. "Like what you see, princess?" Raya teased.

"Very much so," She too got out of bed and placed a hand on Raya's shoulder and gave her a questioning look. "This Viking you're allied with, do you trust him?"

"With my life," Raya said firmly. "When the time comes, Hiccup will kill Drago, once he's dead, you and your people won't have to live in fear of that monster ever again." Taking Namaari's hands in her own, Raya gave her lover a questioning look. "Do you believe me?" Nodding at her words, Raya smiled and then pulled Namaari in a warm embrace. "We're nearing the end now. And it brings me much relief knowing that we made peace and love, I wouldn't be able to forgive myself if I died without telling and showing you how I feel about you." Namaari held Raya tightly, burying her face in the crook of her lover's neck and nodding.

"I love you, Raya."

Savoring those words, Raya sighed happily. "I love you too, Namaari," breaking their embrace, Raya pecked Namaari's lips and gave her a reassuring smile. "We'll see each other again, I promise." Letting go of her lover, Raya collected her clothes and threw them back on while Namaari fetched a white and gilded robe to cover her nakedness as soon as Raya was finished dressing. Making her way towards the window of Namaari's chambers, Heart's princess gave her lover one last look before holding a hand out, smiling at her lover, Namaari took Raya's hand and let out a gasp of surprise when Heart's princess gave her one last passionate kiss, causing Namaari to smile against Raya's lips and return the gesture.

After breaking their kiss, Raya gave Namaari a hopeful look. "So, does this mean you'll join us in restoring Kumandra to what it once was?"

"Yes," Namaari said firmly. "I will join you, and in the act, we'll fulfill both of our father's ultimate dreams— living unified as one people." Fang's princess then continued. "I'll begin speaking with my mother and the Fang Nation Council in devising a plan to lend support and refuge to those in Kumandra who are in need, I will speak with General Atitāya and the other leaders of our army on how we can expel Drago and his junta from our home, and we as a nation will take full responsibility for what we did all those years ago. You have my word, Dep La."

Smiling, Raya nodded and pressed her forehead against Namaari's, causing her to purr happily. Fang's princess then pulled back and spoke regretfully. "You should go," before Raya could object, Namaari place a finger on her lover's lips and smiled reassuringly. "We'll see each other again, not as enemies, but as lovers and allies." Alarmed voices filled the hall outside Namaari's door as well as footsteps hastily approached, causing Fang's princess to look at Raya and urge her to go before she was spotted. The two women shared one last kiss before Raya disappeared in the night.

The doors to Namaari's chambers soon burst open, revealing Virana and members of the Serolt's Claw, the elite of Fang Nation warriors and also their most skilled assassins. As the warriors searched Namaari's bed chambers, Virana approached her daughter and explained the commotion and alarm. "The whole palace is on high alert; Drago's two remaining warlords were found ruthlessly murdered. We assume it's the Dragon Master of Norway, at least that's what Drago believes," Virana then noted her daughter was slicked in sweat and smelled of sex. "And... what exactly were you up to this evening?"

Blushing, Namaari shook her head. "Nothing, Mother," she wiped the sweat from her brow before smiling. "Nothing at all."

Unconvinced by her daughter's words, Virana nodded and turned back to the Serlot's Claw, the head of this sect of warriors, a fierce woman named Lynn bowed her head before speaking. "There are no signs of struggle or any evidence of anyone invading Princess Namaari's chambers," she then inquired. "What of Drago's warlords? It appears whoever has invaded the palace only came to assassinate them, and none of the royalty within these walls."

"If the Dragon Master has indeed assassinated Drago's two remaining warlords, it's a victory for us," Virana stated. "With their deaths, the Mongol and Slavic armies will either brake off from Drago or kill each other to assume the title of warlord. Either way, Drago's world is crashing down around him, and I will not allow that madman to bring us down with him. You and the Serlot's Claw are dismissed, Lynn. Should someone or something threaten the life of my family and daughter, I will summon you."

"Yes, Chief Virana," Lynn bowed her head in understanding, she then turned to the Serlot's Claw. "Come." The sect of warriors followed their leader but not before bowing their heads to both Virana and Namaari.

Turning back to her daughter, Virana gave Namaari a questioning look. "Who were you with this evening, Namaari?" She then spoke firmly. "Do not attempt to lie, despite our differences, I am still your chief, and you will answer me."

Cursing under her breath, Namaari gave in and obeyed her mother's request. "I was with Raya, we made peace with each other," she then continued. "Not only that, but she intends of unifying all the nations and making Kumandra what it once was. And I've promised her that I will stand by her side and make our land what it once was."

"You can't be serious—"

"Mother, we cannot fight Drago and the Druun alone, they'd crush us! But if we humble ourselves and attempt to make amends for what we did to the other nations, then it's a risk we must take. We need to come together and be unified once again, I will honor the wish of my father and ensure that Kumandra stands together, with or without you," before Virana could object further, Namaari then gestured towards her door. "Leave me, I have a busy day tomorrow. And I would ensure I'm well-rested." Virana, cherishing her daughter and not wanting to form a chasm between them soon left and took her to leave.

Before Virana left her daughter's room, the chief of Fang Nation turned around and spoke reassuring words. "Think what you like about me bowing down before Drago, Namaari, but whatever you think of think of me, and whatever I have done has been to ensure the preservation of our people," she added firmly. "And for you. Aside from my sister, your uncle, and your cousin, you're all I have left in this world. Whatever path you walk on, and whatever life you chose for yourself, I will always love you." Saying her piece, she then took her to leave.

Releasing a shaky breath, Namaari turned to her window and looked outside, and smiled lightly. Her mother's words uplifted her and reassured her after her mind was being gnawed on by doubt and fears.

One thing was crystal clear for Namaari, she and Raya had made peace and they had made love, despite the frustration and anger she suffered this day, being intimate with Raya would make her dreams sweet and would only fill her with anticipation for the next time they would cross paths again.

When the war horns sounded and the gongs were rung, Drago emerged from a dreamless sleep and rose from his bed in haste. Approaching his armor rack, he strapped his breastplate on his bulky upper body, he then fastened his forearm gauntlets and shoulder pad on and threw on his dragon skin cloak. Strapping his sword to his hip and grabbing his bullhook, the war master then made his way to the door and opened it, only to be greeted by his Hands.

"Master, we feared you were attacked."

"I yet live," the war master then noted how several of his men raced down the hall where Chagatai's chambers were located. "However, I fear something may have happened to Chagatai Khan. Come."

Drago walked down the hallway of the palace alongside his Hands, several Mongol and Slavic generals and commanders stood outside Chagatai's bed chambers before turning to their master, they all bowed their heads in greetings before gesturing inside Chagatai's room.

"We, uh, found Chagatai's Kheshig knights with their throats slit," one of the Mongol generals said. "But upon entering Chagatai's chambers... I've never seen such a thing."

Making his way past his servants, Drago inhaled sharply at the sight of both his now deceased warlords displayed for all to see. Entering the room, the war master saw Griselda's skin hung like a coat on her armor rack while her flayed corpse was at the feet of the armor rack. Growling, he then turned to Chagatai and then laid eyes on the carving on his chest, the words were carved in Norse.

"Døden er uunngåelig"

"What is carved upon his flesh?"

Turning to General Hannibal Barca II, Drago looked back to Chagatai's mutilated corpse and translated what the words meant. "Death is inevitable," he then snorted before continuing. "A vain attempt to frighten me and us. We have faced death numerous times before, and each time we have endured. Hiccup Haddock cannot kill us all." Turning to his Hands, the war master then seethed out. "Find that whelp, bring him back to me, alive," he then raised his left hand and formed a fist. "I will see to it that Hiccup Haddock bleeds for mutilating my closest allies."

Raya sprinted across the rooftop outside Namaari's window, the urgency to leave was apparent as gongs were being rung and war horns were being sounded. Another pair of footsteps could be heard behind her, causing Raya to turn around and lay eyes on a shrouded Hiccup who was covered in blood, there was no time to question whether or not any of that blood was his own, but judging by the war horns sounding and gongs ringing, Hiccup was successfully and killed his prey.

Both Heart's princess and the vengeful Viking ran side by side and then leaped off of the rooftop, the air around them whistling as they plummeted from great heights. They then use the means to break their fall, Raya using her whip sword to reach a nearby tree and Hiccup using his shield's grappling line to wrap around a sturdy and large tree branch. Once both warriors touched down outside the palace gates, they sprinted through the jungle with all haste. Turning to Hiccup who looked as though he had slaughtered an entire village, she gave her companion a worried look.

"Spit it out, princess," Hiccup grunted as they continued to move swiftly. "Say what's on your mind instead of staring."

"What did you do to Chagatai and Griselda?"

Hiccup was silent for a long time, his forest green eyes blazed with both hatred and contentment. Finally, after what felt like a lifetime, Hiccup answered Raya's question. "I gave Chagatai Khan the Blood Eagle, a form of Viking execution meant for royalty or otherwise, we placed our victims in a prone position, their ribs severed from the spine with a sharp tool, and their lungs pulled through the opening to create a pair of wings. And I flayed Griselda the Grievous alive," he then looked into Raya's eyes and noted the fear in them, before concluding. "I gave them the ends they deserved. Drago Bludvist will soon be next."

The two of them didn't say another word until they returned to the Shrimporium.

A/N: How about that, huh? Let me know what you guys thought and I'll catch you in the next update!