How To Be A Mother

"[THREAD TITLE]" is a [SEASON NUMBER] thread started on [IRL DATE] and finished on [IRL DATE].
==Summary==
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==Full Text==
(April 1053)
[Seasick]: It had been two weeks since Seasick had received a letter announcing the birth of Grey Bergman’s first child, a son named Sven. Being a mother to three young children, and expecting a 4th, Seasick knew all about the chaos that motherhood brought. Excited to see Grey and her new child, Seasick and her family quickly made the long travel to Haligan Island.
Arriving at the island just after dawn, the family quietly made their way to the Bergman household. 
“Don’t knock too loudly, Ellidi.” Seasick whispered as they walked up the front steps. “The baby is probably still asleep.”
“Saedis dear, the sun just rose, I’m pretty sure the kid’s awake by now.” Ellidi replied. "And hey, we finally get to meet her husband... uh, Bran was it?"
"Brandt." Seasick replied quickly. "I'm sure he's lovely." 
Without hesitating a moment longer, Ellidi knocked loudly on the front door, much to Seasick’s annoyance.
[Grey]: Grey and Brandt were just about to go back to sleep as soon as they got Sven to finally go back to sleep when suddenly…
KNOCK! KNOCK!
Within seconds, Sven wailed at the top of his lungs earning groans from both of his parents. 
“So, much for getting some sleep,” Brandt muttered angrily. 
“Ugh…get the door,” the Chief told him. “I’ll take care of Sven.” As Brandt stood up not even bothering to fix his hair and walked over to the door to answer it, Grey walked over to the cradle and picked up her newborn son. “Shh…Sven, please…go back to sleep. Please? For Mommy?”
Brandt answered the door only to come face to face with…a young woman, possibly Grey's age, a man and three children. Before he could ask, he suddenly remembered a recent letter Grey received. This must've been her former comrade, Seasick, her husband, Ellidi, and their three children, Eydis, Havelock, and Hafdis. “Oh, hello, you must be Seasick and Ellidi?” he said as he yawned trying to sound cheerful. “Good to see you guys. My name is Brandt Felman. I'm Grey's husband.”
[S]: “Let me guess, you guys got little to no sleep huh?” Ellidi asked as he shook Brandt’s hand. “Well, you better get used to it, this is your future!”
“Sorry for showing up on so little notice, but we figured you two could use a few extra pair of hands.” Seasick laughed. “May we see the little one?”
[G]: “Of course, come on in,” Brandt said giving Seasick a tired smile and stepping aside allowing the family to enter their home. “It’s good you came though. Greg has taken over the village for a while for Grey, and Asha, Warren, and Grey’s mother are all at home sleeping right now.”
“Brandt!” Grey shouted from the room over Sven’s wailing. “Who’s there?!”
“It’s Seasick and Ellidi!” Brandt shouted back. “Come on out!”
Grey waited a little until Sven’s volume lowered a little before coming out to greet her guests. She finally walked out in her long white night gown with Sven in her arms. “Seasick, Ellidi!” she said happily.
[S]: “Grey, you look radiant as always!!” Seasick cried, gently giving the Chief a side hug. “And look at this cutie!!! Oh, he’s beautiful!!”
Ellidi quietly put the carrier with a sleeping 3 year-old Eydis down beside the kitchen table, and unhooked himself from the harness carrying 2 year old Havelock. “Saedis here couldn’t wait to come visit you guys. She wanted to leave the moment we got your letter.” Ellidi explained. “I tried to explain to her that you two needed time to adjust, but she didn’t listen very well.”
“Oh shut up, Ellidi,” Seasick shot back. “You were the one who figured they’d need every bit of help they could get!” 
[G]: Grey laughed as she watched Seasick and her husband bicker. “Well, I’m really glad you’re here,” she said. She quickly looked down at the baby, who thankfully was starting to quiet down. “You know I’d hug you right now, Seasick, but…” She looked down at Sven.  
Brandt chuckled. “Here, I’ll take him,” he said taking Sven out of his wife’s arms.
As soon as Grey had her arms free, she gave Seasick a huge hug. “I’m glad you’re here, Seasick,” she said. 
[S]: “As am I!” Seasick laughed. “I was so excited when you announced your pregnancy! Now that little Sven is here, I couldn’t wait any longer! And seeing as now I’ve got 3 kids, going on 4, I figured I could give you some pointers!!” 
“Ah yes, Saedis, the Great Expert in Motherhood!” Ellidi said sarcastically, as he placed Havelock in another carrier. “It’s been two weeks, I think they’ve got the hang of things, dear.”
[G]: “Uhhh…” Grey and Brandt said unison. 
“Well…let’s just say…there have some good days…” Grey said. 
“Aaannndd…some bad days,” Brandt added. Suddenly, without any warning, Sven began to scream at the top of his lungs again. “And today is definitely one of those bad days.”
“We barely got any sleep at all last night,” Grey said taking Sven back into her arms gently bouncing him up and down. “We tried feeding him, changing him, carrying him…he just won’t stop!”
[S]: “Ah, Eydis was like that when she was born!” Seasick said, reeling away as Sven’s ear-piercing cries continued. “I’m not even sure how we got her to sleep… I think we just begged her to go to sleep, to no avail.”
“When Eydis woke up and cried, the entire village woke up and cried too.” Ellidi said. “Usually we held her and lightly rubbed her back. Singing quietly worked too.”
Through Sven’s wailing, slowly Eydis, Havelock, and Hafdis all woke up, and joined in on the crying and screaming.
“Never a dull moment on this island, huh!” Ellidi cried, as he tried to quiet Eydis and Havelock.
[G]: “Guess not!” Grey said as she tried to soothe Sven. “Ugh…Sven, please, what are you trying to tell me? Sweetie, please, I’m begging you. Stop crying.”
She quickly placed him on her shoulder gently patting his back thinking that that somehow would soothe him.
[S]: “D’you know any lullabies?” Ellidi asked, as he managed to quiet Havelock down. “Did you check to see if he had an accident? Is he hungry? It is breakfast time…”
“Ah yes, excellent parenting skills there, Ellidi.” Seasick said, as she lightly rocked Hafdis. “Did you nurse him already?”
[G]: Grey thought for a moment, which was miracle considering how tired she was. She had tried to nurse Sven a few hours ago, but he wouldn’t drink the milk. So Grey and Brandt assumed that he wasn’t hungry. Instead it turned out that he was gassy at that point. Then when they finally got him to settle down when Seasick and Ellidi arrived it was because he needed changing. 
“Actually, no, I haven’t,” Grey said. “Maybe he’s hungry.”
“He didn’t eat the last time you tried,” Brandt added. “Perhaps the little guy got a second wind.”
[S]: “Well, why don’t you and I go take care of that?” Seasick said to Grey. “Ellidi, will you be fine with Eydis and Havelock while I take Hafdis? Perhaps you can give Brandt some pointers on parenting.”
“Of course!” Ellidi beamed. “Parenting isn’t that hard, it just takes effort…”
[G]: “Can’t argue with that,” Brandt said as Grey and Seasick went into the bedroom to nurse Sven. “Does it ever get easier?”
Grey guided Seasick into the bedroom. “Thank you so much,” she said. “I feel bad always asking my mother, Asha, and Warren all the time. Greg’s already doing a lot running the village while I take care of this little one.”
[S]: “It’s nothing!! Wait, you actually trusted Greg to run the village?” Seasick asked, as she helped Grey prepare to nurse Sven. “Then again, I suppose he’s done some growing up since the rebellion days, huh?”
[G]: Grey chuckled as she adjusted Sven to feed him with Seasick’s aid. “Surprisingly, yes, he has done some growing up,” she said. “I guess being married and being a dad helps a little. Still, I can’t help but be afraid he’ll just show up one day and throw a pie at the King’s face.”
[S]: Seasick couldn’t help but laugh. “Yeah, I suppose that is still a possibility for him. But I’m glad you are all still friends and are willing to help each other out.”
Looking down at a sleeping Hafdis, Seasick thought of all the rebels and wondered what they were all up to now. “It’s been a few years since I’ve seen them all, but do you know how some of the rebels are? I assume, like us, they’ve had children now…”
[G]: “Well, you saw most of them at my coronation,” Grey replied watching Sven feed, “but King Haddock and Stonegit have been doing well. They were actually here not too long ago to visit me and Sven with the Queen and the kids. Tree and Vox have been doing well with their own kids. Oh, and Nala has been doing well, too! She visits sometimes to watch the kids. I haven’t been able to visit anyone though since Sven was born.” 
Sven cooed. 
“That’s right, my little man,” she said. “You’ve been keeping Mommy and Daddy quite busy. Yes, you have! Yes, you have!”
[S]: “That’s great that the other rebels have been doing well. I feel bad for distancing myself from them, but with soon to be 4 kids, I’m a bit occupied.” Seasick said. “And now that you’ve got Sven here, who clearly demonstrated that he is a handful, I suspect that you’ll be a little occupied for a while as well. But it’s all worth it in the end.”
[G]: “I hope so,” the Chief said. “I feel like I’m trapped in my house and on the island. I can’t really go anywhere. Shadow takes morning flights on her own, and I’m worried she’s been feeling neglected. I’ve tried to make sure she didn’t but it’s difficult with Sven. I can only ask Brandt to do so much, and he and my mom and the girls have been great. I just…don’t want to screw anything up.”
[S]: “And that’s perfectly understandable! Trust me, every new mother feels this way after having a baby. I did, but I managed to get through it.” Seasick explained. “Your husband and friends and fellow islanders know what your going through, and will give you a break, no doubt about it!”
“As for Shadow, Furious is here, and is probably comforting her as we speak.” Seasick said. “When I first had Eydis, Furious had no idea what to make of her. Of course, he got lazy over the years, so he was glad when we couldn’t go flying. But I’m sure Shadow understands that things have changed, and like you, she’ll adjust to it. No need to worry.”
[G]: Grey smiled at Seasick as her words sunk in. It was nice to have someone, who was recently going through what she was going through. She was a new mother with a job…two really…and a dragon. It was a lot for her to juggle. She trusted Greg to handle the village and the meetings with King Haddock if he ever needed them, but still…a part of her wished she was back in action.
“Thank you, Seasick,” she said. “I really needed to hear that. I’m just glad Furious can give Shadow some company.”
[S]: “Try not to worry so much, Grey, you’re doing fine!” Seasick said. “These last two weeks have been crazy for you, and they’ll be crazy for a while until you get adjusted. Just try and take it one day at a time. And if anyone gives you a hard time, well, I don’t know, throw Sven’s poop at them.”
[G]: Grey laughed quietly trying not to jolt Sven back into reality as he continued to feed and drift off to sleep. 
“I’ll keep that in mind,” she said. “That’s actually how Queen Mera got me and King Haddock to stop our hours-long sparring match one time.”
[S]: “By throwing baby poop at you?” Seasick asked, confused at the mental image. “Another option would be to light the poop on fire and then chuck it at whomever is complaining. I imagine that would get the message across quite well.”
[G]: “Possibly,” Grey replied laughing at the memory. “Well, specifically, she said she would throw dirty diapers at us, but you get the idea.”
[S]: “Ah, yes, I guess that would get anyone to stop sparring.” Seasick said. Slowly she began to rock Hafdis and hummed softly. “To be honest, I’m still not completely used to motherhood, even after three kids…”
[G]: “I’m sure it can get crazy at home,” Grey replied gently rubbing Sven’s cheek as he finally allowed sleep to take over. “I’m not sure if I can handle three kids…I can barely handle one.”
[S]: “Yeah, I figured we’d only have two kids, but here we are with three,and another on the way.” Seasick chuckled. “I think Ellidi and I love each other too much. We might need to get divorced if this keeps happening.. Oh don’t give me that look, Grey, I’m only teasing…  But, who knows, you may have three kids in the end, or more, you may find you enjoy a large family…”
[G]: “Seasick, I swear on all the gods in Valhalla…Helheim…wherever…that if you’re right and I end up having three kids, you have every right to…” she paused for a moment, “….fly on Furious around Haligan Island screaming how you are the “all-knowing Seasick” and predicted how many kids the Chief of Haligan Island will have.”
[S]: Seasick tried to stifle a laugh, but failed horribly, causing Hafdis to wake up and cry. “Well, in that case, it’s a deal!” She said, as she rocked her daughter softly. “And I will hold that to you! Just you wait…”
[G]: “I look forward to it,” Grey said raising an eyebrow and smirking at her friend. She finally looked down and noticed that Sven stopped feeding. “Look, he’s finally asleep.”
[S]: “And now the trick is to get him to stay asleep for a bit, which is basically trial and error…” Seasick said. “But since he’s fed, he should sleep for a few hours. Why don’t you put him in his cradle, and go for breakfast? I assume you didn’t have any, since you said you got very little sleep.”
[G]: “Yeah, I am pretty hungry myself,” Grey said as she stood up gently and placed Sven back into the cradle as she kissed him on the cheek. “I love you, my baby boy.” As soon as Sven was snoring soundly in the cradle, Grey guided Seasick out of the bedroom. “Tell you what, I’ll make us all breakfast to thank you and Ellidi.”
[S]: “That sounds great!” Seasick replied. “Of course, we can help too. Actually, Ellidi and I should make you two breakfast, seeing as you two barely got any sleep. How does that sound, dear?”
“Sounds good to me!” Ellidi boomed from the living room. Havelock was awake and trying to squirm out of his father’s arms, while Eydis crawled around on the floor beside him. “What would you like us to make?”
[G]: “Umm…I think I have some leftover porridge ingredients in the cupboards,” Grey said as she sat down. “I’ve been meaning to make it today. There should also be some fish in there somewhere to cook for us and to give a few to Shadow and Furious. I’m sure he’s starving right now.”
“Hey, Ellidi, why don’t I take Havelock for you?” Brandt said. “He looks like he’s getting antsy.”
[S]: “Ah, sure, maybe he’ll behave better with you.” Ellidi replied, handing Havelock over to Brandt. “You be good now, no pooping on Uncle Brandt!”
Havelock, confused by the man holding him, grabbed a part of Brandts beard and refused to let go. Ellidi walked into the kitchen and helped Seasick prepare breakfast for the Bergman family. “Hey, I couldn’t help but notice, this islands got a lot of nice lookin’ ships.” Ellidi said. “Ever go on them? Mind giving me a tour sometime?” 
[G]: “Yeah…we’ve taken a couple trips on them with Greg, Warren, and Asha,” Grey replied. “I’d be happy to give you guys an offic–” 
“OW! Havelock!” Brandt shouted as Havelock grabbed onto his beard…hard. “Grey!”
“Yes, dear?” Grey asked trying not to laugh. 
“Can you give me some help?” Brandt asked trying to get Havelock to loosen his grip. 
“Hmm, no, I don’t think so,” Grey replied. “Think of it as payback for making me change Sven’s diaper…twice!”
“Oh come on, the first time you did there was nothing there!” Brandt retorted. 
Grey couldn’t help but giggle watching Havelock and her husband bond.
[S]: “Is Havie being trouble?” Seasick called from the kitchen. “Havelock sweetie, release!” 
At his mother’s word, Havelock released Brandt’s beard, and giggled. Eydis managed to climb up beside Grey and stared curiously at the chief. 
“Saedis has been trying to teach the kids some dragonese, alongside Norse.” Ellidi explained as he prepared the porridge. “Eydis seems to hate it, while Havelock loves it. He especially likes to say ‘fire’ repeatedly…”
“Fire! Fire!” Havelock squealed to Brandt, although it sounded like he was saying “fur burn”.
[G]: Brandt stared at the toddler with wide-eyes after he managed to speak Dragonese…almost flawlessly. “Clearly,” he said. “I could see that someone already loves dragons.”
“Like mother, like son,” Grey said giving Seasick a sidelong glance as she picked up Eydis to sit her on her lap. “Hey, Eydis! How are you, pretty girl? You’ve gotten so big since the last time I saw you.”
[S]: “I’m not that big!” Eydis huffed. “Not as big as mommy!”
“I can’t tell if that’s a crack at my weight gain due to pregnancy or if she means big as in being an adult…” Seasick called from the kitchen. “Almost ready!!”
[G]: Grey chuckled at Seasick’s comment. “Well, I’m sure that you will grow up to be a very big girl,” she said to Eydis as she poked her on the nose. “And once you’re big enough, you’ll be able to fly off and do whatever you want. You could have your own dragon and fly wherever you want. Doesn’t that sound exciting?”
“Grey, she’s three years old,” Brandt said. “She’s still learning how to talk and walk.”
Grey scoffed and rolled her eyes. “Says the guy who told Sven that he was going to teach him how to hunt, fish, and trade…on the day he was born.” She then turned to Eydis. “Don’t mind Uncle Brandt. He’s being silly.”
[S]: “Fly away… like Uncle Fury???” Eydis said, her eyes growing wide with excitement. “I can do that?”
“You can’t do that yet, but maybe one day you will.” Seasick said, carrying in the family’s breakfast. “But until then, you’re gonna say right here with us!”
Seasick scooped up Eydis and sat down with her across from Grey. Ellidi took Havelock off of Brandt and attempted to get him to eat the porridge, with no success.
“Hopefully it’s the way you like it.” Seasick said.
[G]: Grey and Brandt took their spoons and dug into the bowls. Grey slurped the porridge and smacked her lips.
“Mm, Seasick, this is delicious!” Grey said excitedly. “Thank you both so much!”
“Yes, thank you!” Brandt said firmly. “We need to do this for you when your fourth comes along. How does that sound?”
[S]: “That sounds wonderful!” Ellidi said. “I know I’ll be way too exhausted to do anything!
“You’re not the one who has to deliver the baby, though.” Seasick replied, rolling her eyes. “But yes, that sounds like a lovely idea Brandt. Neither of you have been to our island have you? It’ll be a long trip but I’m sure you’ll enjoy it.”
“There are big dragons on our island!” Eydis murmured. “Bigger than Uncle Fury!”
[G]: Grey giggled. “I’m sure there are,” she said to Eydis. She then turned to Seasick. “And yes, I’m sure my mother can watch Sven when we come. I would love to see your island. You never really talked about your home that much when we were in the Rebellion.”
“Ah, yes, where are you from, Seasick?” Brandt asked. “Grey has told me you were from the Barbaric Archipelago, but she never said what island.”
[S]: “I’m from an island called Peaceable Country, although I grew up on the Island of the Quiet Life.” Seasick explained. “It’s a rather big island, lots of tall cliffs and dense forests. We live just off the coast of course, because of Ellidi’s job as a navigator. Lots of room for a dragon to roam and relax.”
“That and it lives up to it’s name of being peaceful.” Ellidi said. “The nearest village is about 30 minutes by walking, but with dragons it’s not even 10. Everyone is rather friendly too, which is surprising, given the islands history…”
[G]: “History?” Grey asked taking a another sip of her porridge. She hadn’t realized how hungry she had been until she started eating. “What…kind of history?”
[S]: “Most islands in the Barbaric Archipelago have this rule that if a child is deemed a runt, it must be cast out to sea.” Seasick said. “Peaceable Island followed this rule up until a few years ago. I was a runt, and was cast out. Luckily though a family found me, and that’s how I ended up living on the Island of the Quiet Life.”
“The old chief wouldn’t budge on changin’ the rule.” Ellidi explained. “The population of the island was becoming extremely low due to casting out so many ‘runts’. Thankfully, the old chief got sick and died, and his son took over and removed the rule. Ever since then, the population has been boomin’ and people have been super happy.”
Ellidi looked down at Havelock who was playing with the spoon in the porridge. “And it’s a good thing too, cause I’m pretty sure Havelock here would’ve been cast out due to how little he was when he was born…”
[G]: Brandt and Grey had been shocked to the point of speechlessness. This was definitely new. Grey had heard about this rule in other lands when attended chief gatherings and meetings with King Haddock, but thankfully, Chief Hroar and a few of his predecessors had abolished that rule long before she was born. So, Haligan Island never supported that rule. 
“Seasick…I…I had no idea you were…” Grey said as she placed her hand on her friend’s. “I mean…you never told me…”
[S]: “To be honest, it didn’t really bother me that much.” Seasick said. “I was adopted into a great family that didn’t care that I wasn’t related to them by blood. They loved me and I loved them back. Although it’s an odd feeling living on the very island that cast you out.”
“And it’s also weird knowing that you could be neighbors with your birth family.” Ellidi said. “It was lucky that I came along, or else Saedis might have married her brother unknowingly!!!”
[G]: The Chief and her husband both widened their eyes as Ellidi made his comment. He obviously had a point. Seasick clearly didn’t know who her parents were…or if she had any siblings…there would be a good chance she would’ve married them. Although, that sparked another question in Grey’s mind. 
“Have you ever…considered trying to find your parents?” Grey asked.
[S]: “I have, but now with the kids, I’m a bit more occupied.” Seasick said. “Although even if I did find them, I don’t know how I’d prove to them that I was their lost daughter, besides my appearance.”
“I’m pretty sure I’ve seen a  young woman in the village who looks like you, Saedis.” Ellidi said. “I keep forgetting to say hello. Although, because of how common it was to cast out runts, most people on the island have lost relatives, so Saedis probably isn’t the only one living among lost family.”
[G]: Grey nodded as she processed what Ellidi and Seasick just told her and Brandt. 
“Look, Seasick, I’m not trying to pressure you or anything,” she said, “but from a new mother’s perspective, I can say that after carrying my baby for nine months, I feel like I’ve known him for a really long time. I think there’s a chance a mother would know her own daughter no matter how old she is.”
[S]: “I suppose you’re right…” Seasick said, looking down at Eydis, who was slowly falling asleep in her lap. “Maybe I’ll think it over a bit more, and maybe I will go look for my birth parents. But I won’t waste my life looking for them.” 
“Actually, thinkin’ about it, if we found ourselves a tracking dragon, maybe it could track your parents down!” Ellidi said, getting rather excited over the idea. “I mean, you’d have a similar sent to your birth parents right? Maybe the dragons could lead the way!!!”
[G]: “That’s a good idea!” Brandt said. “I’m sure there are plenty of those on your island.”
“Yeah, I like that,” Grey said nodding. “I think it would be good for you…to find out who you are. I went on a road trip with Warren after Asha’s daughter was born to find her parents, and it was really good for her to finally have that closure. But, again, that was Warren. You don’t have to rush into anything, Seasick, and we’ll support you no matter what.”
[S]: “Well, I’ll still be me, regardless of if I find my birth parents or not.” Seasick said. “And it’s not like I blame them for casting me out. It was tradition, and I’m sure it was extremely hard for them.”
“But thankfully that’s all and over with.” Ellidi said, hugging Havelock lightly. “Just ‘cause a baby is small, that doesn’t mean they aren’t worth something.” 
[G]: “I’m sure it wasn’t easy for parents,” Grey said sitting back in her chair. “You know…I look at my mom, Asha, Greg, Warren, King Haddock, Queen Mera, Tree, Vox, and all their kids…you guys and your kids, and now I have Sven…my…my son…my baby boy. I just…I just can’t imagine giving him up…casting him out when all I want is to hug him and keep him in my arms forever.” She sniffled. “Sorry, my mom and the midwife said I would be emotional after the childbirth.” 
“Aw, Grey,” Brandt said hugging her close. “It’s okay.”
[S]: “It’s perfectly normal to be emotional over such a topic.” Seasick said. “Hel, even Furious seemed a bit emotional when I told him about my past all those years ago.”
“That dragon is emotional over everything, dear.” Ellidi snorted. “He looks like he’s really mean, but he’s actually a big softy.”
“He’ll still kill you without a second thought, you know.” Seasick snapped back.
[G]: Grey laughed at the banter between her former comrade and her husband as she rested her head on his shoulder. From her angle, she was able to see that all three of Seasick’s children had fallen asleep. 
“Aw, looks like three somebodies got a little sleepy,” Grey said smiling. “Why don’t we put them in the bedroom? They’ll be more comfortable on the bed.”
[S]: “That sounds like a good idea.” Seasick said, looking down at a sleeping Eydis.
Together both Ellidi and Seasick placed their children in their carriers and cribs and took them to the bedroom beside Sven. It was an adorable sight, all four children sleeping beside one another.
“It will be interesting to see them all together when they’re older.” Seasick said to Grey. “I wonder how they’ll get along…”
[G]: “I bet they’ll be great friends,” Grey said gently rubbing Sven’s cheek watching his chest rise up and down. “I know Sven will love having his Uncle Ellidi and Aunt Seasick visit from time to time.”
[S]: “I just hope they’ll have a good future, with little to no violence.” Seasick said. “I don’t want them to go through what we did, with the whole rebellion. That’s why I went back to the Barbaric Archipelago, to avoid all the conflict.”
[G]: “I hope so too,” Grey said staring lovingly at her newborn son. “The only thing I hope Sven will have to deal with as Chief is marital disputes and rounding up loose herds. There’s no telling if the Barbaric Burglars plan to attack Haligan Island again.”
[S]: “These Barbaric Burglars… have you not tried to create some sort of peace treaty with them?” Seasick asked. “Or are they the kind of people who don’t care about hurting others?”
[G]: “Believe me, Chief Hroar and I have tried,” Grey said bitterly. “But the Chief won’t hear of it. He only promised that his successor would try to conquer Haligan Island. So, you know what? They don’t want peace…they’re not getting it. We beat them in that war, and we’ll do the same again if it ever happens.”
[S]: Seasick remained silent at Grey’s response. She knew very little about the history of the two tribes, but understood that peace between both tribes was probably never going to happen. 
“Well, if you ever need an extra hand at fighting them, you know who to call.” Seasick said.
[G]: Grey looked up at her friend and smiled. “Thanks, I really appreciate it,” she said. “It’s nice to have friends, who will back you up. I mean I know I forgave Brandt for what happened, but the tribe on the other–” She stopped when she realized what she just said.
[S]: Seasick tilted her head in confusion. “Grey? W-what’s wrong?” She asked. as curious as she was, Seasick didn’t want to pry.
[G]: “Uhhh…” Grey replied not bothering to look up at Seasick. “N-Nothing…I-I’m fine…I…umm…” She quickly moved away from Seasick, but she could still feel Seasick’s eyes on her. The Chief could not believe what she just said. 
[S]: “Ah… um, well, now that we’ve put the kids to sleep, why don’t we get some fresh air?” Seasick asked, trying to change the subject. “We can sit out front for a bit. Shadow and Furious have great hearing, so they’ll know when the kids wake up.” 
[G]: “Oh, uhh…sure…sure,” Grey said taking a robe and wrapping it around herself. She gave Sven one last kiss on the cheek before taking Seasick outside the bedroom and leading her outside. 
[S]: As the two women emerged from the bedroom, Ellidi’s smile faded when he saw the serious look on Seasick’s face. “Everything okay with the kids?”
“Ah, yes, everything’s good.” Seasick answered. “We’re just going to step outside for some fresh air. I think these to could use it.”
[G]: “Yeah, it’s starting to get a little stuffy in here,” Grey said as nonchalantly as she could. “Come on out with us. Shadow and Furious can keep an ear out for the kids.”
“That’s a good idea,” said Brandt. “Let’s go.”
[S]: Stepping outside, the sun was now high up in the sky and there was a light breeze blowing. People around the village were going about their day, and Shadow and Furious lay next to the house, enjoying each other’s company.
“You guys get lovely weather here too huh?” Seasick said, taking in a deep breathe of fresh air.
“Good weather for sailin’ too.” Ellidi said.
[G]: “Sure is,” Brandt said as they sat down on the front porch. “That was the best part of whenever I came to Haligan Island with Grey’s uncle Einar. The weather was almost always perfect. It could be stormy on the mainland, but here it would be sunny and a little cloudy.”
“Yeah, this was always my favorite part about living here,” Grey said. “It always gave me great weather for flying with Shadow.”
[S]: “That, and it’s peaceful.” Seasick said. “It actually reminds me a lot of our island.”
“Lot of room for a small army of children to run around too, that’s for sure!” Ellidi added.
[G]: Grey chuckled. “That’s true,” she said. “Siri and Kettil used to run around here all the time. I’m sure Sven and your kids will do the same thing soon.” Suddenly, Grey became quiet again remembering exactly why Seasick suggested that they could come outside in the first place.
“Grey…my love, are you alright?” Brandt asked.
“Oh, I’m fine, Brandt, really,” she said smiling as best as she could.
[S]: “I’ve heard that phrase so many times to know that you’re not fine.” Ellidi said, turning to Grey. “If you’re not feeling well, you should go inside and lie down. I mean, you did just give birth 2 weeks ago.” 
“That is true.” Seasick agreed. “That and you haven’t been getting much sleep either. Maybe you should go lie down.”
[G]: The Chief sighed. “No, it’s alright, really,” she said. “I just came out here, and I could really use the fresh air. Although…Seasick, could I talk to you privately for a minute?” 
[S]: “Uh, sure I guess.” Seasick replied. “Where do you want to talk?”
[G]: “Umm…” Grey thought for a moment thinking of a place that was quiet…a place where no villagers or Brandt or Ellidi could hear them. Suddenly, she spotted a secluded spot between her house and the Great Hall. Perfect! “By the Great Hall, come on. We’ll be back, guys.”
“Okay, take your time,” Brandt said. 
Grey nodded and guided Seasick to the spot she had in mind.
[S]: Seasick followed Grey silently, wondering what Grey could possibly want to talk to her about. Perhaps it was a womanly issue, which wouldn’t be all too surprising, as the body undergoes numerous changes during and after pregnancy. Or perhaps Seasick or Ellidi said something rude unintentionally. There were endless possibilities.
“So, what’d you want to talk about?” Seasick asked as they reached the spot. “Hopefully Ellidi and I didn’t say something rude or offensive…”
[G]: “No, no, you didn’t,” Grey said. “I just…wanted to explain what happened when I froze in the bedroom. Look, you’re my friend, and you trusted me with what happened to you when you were born,” she took Seasick’s hands, “so I want to show you the same trust with something that Brandt told me…before we were married. But I need you to promise me that you will keep it between us. Promise?”
[S]: Seasick was taken aback by Grey’s words. “Uh yes, of course. What.. what happened?”
[G]: “Well…” she took a deep breath, “two nights before we were married…Brandt told me something about the battle between the Barbaric Burglars and the Haligan Tribe…the day that my dad died. He said that he didn’t want to enter a marriage knowing that he was lying to me.”
[S]: “W-what was he lying about?” Seasick asked cautiously. It was clear that this was a sensitive topic, and Seasick wasn’t sure if she wanted to ask too many questions.
[G]: “Well…” Grey hesitated. Could she really do that? Tell Seasick the whole story? Yes, she told her mother, and Brandt told Greg, Warren, and Asha, but…telling the Boomerang Squad was Brandt’s choice. No….she couldn’t do that to her husband. She sighed…hoping this would be believable enough, “he…told me…that he lied to me about the man who killed my father. It was one of his comrades in the tribe…so I guess talking about it today…reopened some old wounds. That’s…that’s why I reacted the way I did. I felt bad that I almost betrayed my husband’s trust despite how I forgave him.”
[S]: Did she hear that right? Brandt was apart of the very tribe that killed Grey's father? Perhaps Grey didn't want to reveal that but was too tired to realize she did. Seasick tried not to react with shock and instead remained calm. 
“Oh, I see.” Seasick said. “I’m sorry, I didn’t realize that's what happened. But… that’s in the past now, and you and Brandt love each other, so you should focus more on that, instead of the bad stuff..”
[G]: “Yeah, we do,” Grey said smiling. She gave Seasick a playful look. “We certainly do.” She chuckled. “I’m really sorry. Ugh..” she covered her face, “the joys of raising a baby…sleepless nights and over-emotional…ness.”
[S]: Seasick laughed at Grey. “Hey, no, I totally understand. Ellidi and I were a mess after Eydis was born. We had no idea what we got ourselves into. But we got through it. You and Brandt will too.”
[G]: “Thanks, Seasick,” the Chief said as she hugged her friend. 
[S]: “Do you remember what I told you all those years ago after the first battle of Ragnarok? That you can come to me for support? I still stand by that.” Seasick told Grey. “You’re not alone, and if you ever need to talk about something, I’m here.”
[G]: Grey smiled as she adjusted her cheek on her former comrade’s shoulder. “I remember,” she said as tears fell from her eyes. “And thank you.”
Suddenly, out of nowhere, two dragon roars were heard nearby. 
“Grey! Baby alert!” Brandt shouted. 
“Well, that was fun while it lasted,” Grey said jokingly.
[S]: “A moment of peace goes a long way!” Seasick said. Quickly, the two young mothers hurried back to the Bergman household to get their children. 
“Thanks for being on guard, you two!” Seasick said to Shadow and Furious, as she and Grey rushed inside.
“It was nothing.” Furious said, not even lifting his head in acknowledgement.
[G]: “Good girl, Shadow!” Grey shouted. 
Shadow crooned as she watched Grey run past her with Seasick and smiled confidently at Seasick. 
The Chief and her former comrade ran inside with their husbands into the bedroom. Sure enough, all four kids were crying. 
“Oh Thor, Sven must’ve woken them all up,” Grey said as she went to her son and picked him up. “What’s wrong, sweetie?”
[S]: Seasick picked up Hafdis from her cradle, and tried to get her to stop crying, while Ellidi picked up  and rocked Havelock and comforted Eydis, who decided screaming was better than crying.
“Sounds like they’re all a bit cranky.” Seasick said over all the crying and screaming. “Maybe napping wasn’t such a great idea.”
[G]: “Looks like it,” Grey said as she bounced Sven up and down. “I don’t get it. I thought he was hungry.”
“Maybe he needs to be changed,” Brandt said taking his child. “Hey, buddy. what’s wrong? What’s wrong, son?” He lifted him up and smelled his bottom. He paused for a moment. “Nope…unless we somehow made diapers that cover the ungodly odor.”
Grey gently swatted Brandt on the shoulder. “Try burping him,” she said.
“Alright,” Brandt said holding Sven on his shoulder gently patting the baby on the back. “Here we go, buddy. Here we go.”
[S]: Eydis had finished her screaming fit and started staring at Brandt as he tried burping Sven. 
“Sing.” The little girl said.
Seasick looked down at her daughter in surprise. “Do you think singing will help Sven, Eydis?” She asked.
“No. I don’t like your singing.” Eydis replied, causing Ellidi to stifle a laugh.
[G]: “Well, at least she’s honest,” Grey said awkwardly. 
Suddenly, a little burp came from little Sven. 
“Hey, way to go, son!” Brandt said excitedly. “You burped!”
Suddenly, Sven began to cry again causing both Grey and Brandt to groan.
“Eydis, sweetie,” Grey said to the little girl. “Who do you think should sing to Sven?”
[S]: “Sing the dragon song!!” Eyis said, flashing an excited smile.
“Dragon song?” Seasick asked. “You don’t know any dragon songs… Do you know any lullabies, Grey? That could work.”
“Or maybe Sven just wants to have a crying fit.” Ellidi said, rocking Havelock slowly. “Get it out of his system.”
[G]: “Hmm, well, I guess I could try a lullaby,” Grey said as she took her son was back into her arms. “Come here, baby. Mommy’s going to make you feel better. Shh..” She began to sing a quick lullaby that her mother taught her when she was little. 
Brandt sang along as Grey rocked Sven back and forth trying to get him to stop crying. 
[S]: Eydis watched in awe at both Grey and Brandt as they sang to Sven. The soft lullaby even made Havelock and Hafdis quiet, which was quite a relief. 
“They sing better than you, mommy.” Eydis said to Seasick when the song was over.
“I suppose I can’t be good at everything, can I?” Seasick said, smirking down at her tiny daughter. “That was a lovely lullaby.”
[G]: Grey chuckled at the exchange between Seasick and her little daughter. She could only hope that she and Sven would have that little banter when he’s older. “Thank you, Seasick,” she said. 
“Hey, look at that,” Brandt said. “He’s starting to calm down. I think he-”
He suddenly stopped when Sven suddenly spat up.
[S]: “Ugh, that’s a little gross.” Ellidi said. Eydis thought it was funny and giggled at the sight. 
“Well, he should be feeling much better now!” Seasick said, handing Grey a towel to wipe up the mess.
[G]: Sven only squirmed cooing as Grey wiped off the remnants off her night gown. Once she was clean, she looked at Sven.
“You enjoy this, don’t you?” she asked the baby. 
“Oh, Grey, I’m sure that’s not his intention at all,” Brandt said as he took his son back from his wife trying not to laugh. “No, he really enjoys it.”
Grey smirked knowing exactly who Brandt was referring to. “Yeah, well, if he really enjoys it, then maybe I should consider making him sleep on the floor instead of the bed,” she said.
“Yes, ma’am,” Brandt quickly said. 
[S]: “Hey, the floor beats sleeping outside with the dragons! Trust me.” Ellidi’s said.  
“Also, Grey, if you think Sven spitting up food is bad, wait ‘til he has explosive diarrhea.” Seasick said. “It’s even worse than dragon poop.”
[G]: Grey gave her friend the most disgusted look that she could muster up. She then looked at Sven. 
“I bet you’re just waiting for that day, aren’t you?” she asked her son who only cooed in response. 
[S]: “You better get used to it, Grey,” Seasick smirked. “Especially if you have more children. Then there’ll be twice the poop and mess.” 
Aahhh, but that’s part of the joys of bein’ a parent!” Ellidi chimed in. “Imagine how boring it would be without all the mess and the crying and whatnot??”
[G]: “You know he’s got a point,” Brandt said to Grey. 
Grey chuckled. “Yeah,” she said. She then turned to Sven. “You do bring a lot of excitement for Mommy and Daddy, don’t you?” She then kissed Sven on the forehead. “Still, it’s nice to have breaks every now and then.”
[S]: “It’s only been two weeks,” Seasick said. “Give it some time, and there’ll be a sort of pattern or routine. You’ll get your well deserved breaks eventually.”
“And before you know it, Sven’ll be all grown up and ready to leave home.” Ellidi added. “It’s best to spend as much time with his while he’s young and innocent.”
[G]: “Well, I guess you’re right, Ellidi,” the Chief replied gently running her hand through Sven’s fine brown hair. She smiled sadly as she realized that Ellidi was in fact right. Sven wasn’t going to stay a baby forever. Eventually he was going to grow up, marry, and take over the village as the next Chief. “You know, my mom always told me she didn’t like seeing me grow up…that she wished I would stay a baby forever. I’m starting to understand that now.”
“Hey, he may not be a baby for long,” said Brandt, “but our son is going to be quite a man when he grows up. We’ll make sure of it.”
Grey smiled and kissed her husband on the cheek.
[S]: “I’m sure he’ll turn out wonderful.” Seasick agreed. Looking down at a wide-eyed Havelock, Seasick couldn’t help but smile while thinking of her children’s future. “It’s funny how you can see personalities forming in your children at such a young age. Havelock here, he’ll probably end up being really curious about everything.”
“Hafdis is a lot quieter than Eydis and Havelock, so she’ll probably be a lot less trouble. Eydis, as you can probably already tell, has a bit of sass to her, and will probably be a handful when she’s older.” Ellidi said. 
[G]: “Hmm…” Grey said as she and Brandt looked into Sven’s eyes as he looked up at them. Once again, Seasick was right. Just from Sven acted, both parents could easily see his personality developing. He cried a lot, so he probably was going to be rebellious…perhaps daring like his mother.  
“Well, I certainly see that our little boy is going to be exactly like you, Grey,” Brandt said. “Perhaps more adventurous.”
Grey smiled. “Yeah, I think you’re right Brandt,” she said. “But he’s also going to be a sweet loving man…just like his daddy.”
[S]: “A nice balance.” Seasick said. “I think you two will manage. If not, send him over to us, and I’m sure we could handle him.”
“Really Saedis? You want MORE kids?” Ellidi asked, shaking his head. “I think we should focus on the ones we have first.”
[G]: Grey laughed. “Well since you already predicted how many kids Brandt and I will probably have,” she said, “I’d like to know how many you two think you’ll have. After the fourth I mean.”
[S]: Seasick and Ellidi exchanged looks and thought about the question. “Well, I’m not really sure. It’s not like we’re really planning these things…” Seasick said.
“My uncle’s got 15 kids, so I mean, technically we co-”
“15 is way out of the question, dear.” Seasick interrupted. “I know we have a hard time keeping our hands off each other, but I will draw a line at 15 children.”
[G]: “I tell you guys,” Brandt began. “If you ever end up having more than 5 kids, may the blessings of all gods be upon you.”
“Well…what if I want to have 6 kids, Brandt?” Grey asked innocently.
Brandt widened his eyes. “What…?”
Grey giggled. “Relax, I’m kidding,” she said. 
[S]: “Six kids isn’t that bad. You two have the space to raise that many, anyways.” Seasick said. “But again, I think it’d be wise to have one kid at a time, and work from there.” 
“Yeah, and if you want 1 kid or 6 or 15, I’m sure it’ll all work out in the end.” Ellidi’s said.
[G]: “I have no doubt it will,” Grey said looking at Sven. “I’m sure Sven wouldn’t mind having siblings.”
[S]: “Siblings are a good thing to have.” Seasick said. “Even with a large age difference, they will still get along and support you.”
[G]: “It’s true,” Grey said. “As much as I wish I had biological siblings, I don’t know where I would be without Greg, Warren, and Asha.”
[S]: “To be honest, I was always a little jealous of how close you were to them in the rebellion.” Seasick said. “I guess it was because I wan’t close to anyone back then. But it’s nice that you four are so close an consider each other to be family. It’s a good thing to have.”
[G]: Grey’s face fell when she heard Seasick speak. She was so shocked that she was thankful she didn’t drop Sven. Instead, she quickly gave her baby to her husband and walked over to Seasick. 
“Seasick, I…I had no idea you felt that way,” she said. “W-Why didn’t you ever tell me?”
[S]: Seasick looked away and shrugged. “I don’t know. I mean, there was so much chaos going on, that the only times we spoke to each other was on a battlefield That and I wasn’t sure I wanted to get close to anyone… I had planned to leave several times but never did. And you were also busy being Lady of the United Revolutionaries anyways…”
[G]: Grey stared sadly at her friend. Looking back on their experiences in the Rebellion, she had to say that Seasick was right. She was so busy with either the Boomerang Squad or being Haddock’s second-in-command. She and Seasick barely had time to interact, except for those last few days before Seasick left. 
“I’m…I’m so sorry, Seasick,” she said. “I-I don’t know what to say.”
[S]: “You don’t need to apologize, you did nothing wrong. Besides, we’re friends now.” Seasick said. “I’m just glad that through our small interactions, our friendship was able to grow and flourish.”
“Wow, that was super corny Saedis. You don’t ever say things like that to me.” Ellidi interrupted, who swiftly received a death glare from his wife.
[G]: Grey chuckled as she took Seasick and hugged her tightly. “I do wish we talked more,” she said, “but you’re right. We’re friends now. All we can do is just move forward with the friendship.”
“Seasick, if there’s one thing I learned from my darling wife,” Brandt said, “it’s that you don’t let the past dictate how you move on through life.”
[S]: “I agree with that,” Seasick replied to Brandt. “If all I focused on was my past mistakes, I wouldn’t be the person I am today. I’ve accepted who I was in the past and I’m moving on.”
[G]: “Aww, our little Seasick is growing up,” Grey said jokingly. 
[S]: “I’ll still kick your ass if you get me angry enough.” Seasick smirked.
“I have been at the receiving end of her rage, it is not fun.” Ellidi said. “The more children we have, the more I fear they’ll inherit her temper..”
[G]: “Message received,” Brandt and Grey said in unison.
Sven cooed from Brandt’s arms. “Sven got the message too,” he said.
[S]: “Ah, I won’t kick his ass, he’s too little and too cute. I doubt he’ll be any trouble for you two.” Seasick said. “If he is, then you can send him my way, I’ll sort him out.”
“Maybe we should parent our own kids first, before we attempt to parent someone else’s, dear.” Ellidi said.
[G]: Brandt chuckled. “Oh, don’t worry,” he said. “We’re going to all the help we can get.” 
“Oh, I’m sure we’ll be fine…at…some point,” Grey said, “right Sven?”
[S]: Seasick looked down at her own children, and noticed that Eydis and Havelock had wandered to the corner of the room to a dresser and looked like they were ready to climb it.. 
“Just make sure you keep a close eye on him,” Seasick said as she snatched up Havelock before he could hurt himself. “You don’t want him to get too rebellious at such a young age.”
[G]: “I’ll keep that in mind,” Grey said watching her friend pick up her younger son. “Although, I don’t think you have anything to worry about. I don’t think we do either. Though, I can’t help but wonder what our children will think if we ever tell him stories about the Rebellion.”
[S]: Seasick was silent for a moment, looking down at her children. “I don’t plan on telling them at all. Or at least, not until they’re old enough to understand. Even then, I’ll keep it short and simple. They don’t need to know everything.”
“You’ve barely told me anything. Granted I’ve never really asked, but still.” Ellidi said. “The less they know, the safer they’ll be.”
[G]: “Believe me, Ellidi,” Brandt said bouncing his son again to make sure he didn’t cry again, “you’re not the only one. There are still some things I don’t know. Though, I do agree, that’s something that can wait till the kid is grown up.”
“Well, there are some stories that aren’t too difficult,” Grey said. “The smuggled weapons mission, the one time I sang to Haddock when Frosti attacked him. Maybe even when we were thrown into that pit.”
“Ah yes, the…hella deep a–” he stopped when he saw the children, “pit as Greg so gracefully put it when we told him, Warren, and Asha that we were courting.”
[S]: “I’m glad I managed to miss that pit incident.” Seasick said, trying to hide a smile. “Oh and there was also the wedding of Clover and Tezz as well as Tree and Vox. Oh and that feast we had… although I don’t remember any of it.. because of the spiked drinks…”
“WHAT?!?” Ellidi said loudly, causing Hafdis and Havelock to whine. “Ah oops, sorry all. But… you were given spiked drinks?? Oh my gods, how dangerous was this feast?!?”
[G]: “Yeah, how mm–?!” Grey quickly put her hand on his mouth to prevent him from waking up Sven. 
“First of all, if you wake up that baby, I will throw you in that pit,” Grey said smirking. “Second of all, it wasn’t dangerous. Greg pulled a little stunt with Akkey and Hrinthe and spiked the drinks. We just got a little loopy for the rest of the night really.”
[S]: “Grey, I was out cold under a table for the rest of the night. Whatever was in the drinks was strong.” Seasick said.
“Well, you are a lightweight dear…” Ellidi commented. “Well I’g glad that even in dark times, you guys had a few laughs.”
[G]: “Oh, believe me we did,” she said. “We managed to find time to have weddings, meetings where Greg throws pies at authoritative figures, the whole nine yards.”
[S]: “I hope the rest of the rebels focus on the good things rather than the bad things that happened…” Seasick said quietly.
[G]: “I’m positive they do, Seasick,” she said. She then looked at Sven and Brandt smiling, “very positive.”
Brandt could only smile at his wife. 
[S]: “Well, I hope they know that they can still reach out to us if they ever need help.” Seasick said. “We may have gone our separate ways, but I think we can still depend on each other when we need to.” 
[G]: “Don’t worry,” the Chief replied. “I’m sure wherever we’re needed, we’ll here the call and come rushing in to help our former comrades.” 
[S]: “Well, I don’t know about rushing to help them,” Seasick said. “Being a mother of soon to be 4 children, I’ve got my priorities with them. I’d rather not leave Ellidi alone with the children. But I suppose, if something really bad were to happen, that may change my stance.”  
“Well, I’m sure I can handle takin’ care of the kids. Besides I could call our parents to help out as well.” Ellidi said, placing his hand on Seasick’s shoulder.
[G]: “I can, as well, and we have plenty of help too,” Brandt said, “which is good with Grey being the Chief and the King’s second-in-command. We got Greg, Warren, Asha, Grey’s mother, and you guys if you ever come to visit.”
“But that doesn’t mean that I won’t try to be apart of my baby’s life,” she said rubbing Sven’s cheek. “I don’t know what I would do without my little bundle of joy.”
[S]: “We probably won’t visit for a while after this.” Seasick thought for a moment. “It’s not exactly fun flying on a dragon for several days while several month pregnant. But with messenger dragons, we can easily keep in touch and up to date with one another.”
“That, and traveling with children is always a hassel.” Ellidi added. “Keep that in mind if you plan on havin’ more children.”
[G]: “I can only imagine,” Grey said looking at the three children and Seasick’s growing stomach. “But really, I meant what I said, Seasick. I would love it if Sven’s Aunt Seasick and Uncle Ellidi came to visit every once in a while, and Brandt and I can easily hop on Shadow and head over to your home as well. Greg can watch over the village for a couple days, and King Haddock doesn’t usually ask me to come to a meeting unless he really needs me.”
[S]: “I like the idea, we should plan for it some time.” Seasick replied. “I’m sure Eydis, Havelock, and Hafdis would love to see their aunt and uncle and baby cousin visit!”
“As long as you two like staying in a tiny house full of crying childre, then you’re welcome anytime!!” Ellidi added in.
[G]: Grey and Brandt laughed together at Ellidi’s comment. 
“Well so far, we’ve been living with a crying newborn baby,” said Grey. “Staying with a house full of crying children should be a breeze.”
[S]: “I’m willing to bet that you’ll start going insane by the second day!” Ellidi said. 
“It shouldn’t that bad,” Seasick said. “By the time you guys visit, the kids’ll be a little older, maybe by then they’ll learn not to cry so much. The only thing you’ll hate is being woken up at the crack of dawn by either them crying or by Furious’s morning roars.”
[G]: “You seem to forget that I have a Night Fury who always needs to go for a morning flight,” Grey said raising an eyebrow. 
“It’s true,” said Brandt. 
[S]: “Well, I’m sure if you come visit, Furious will take her flying without you. That way, you can sleep in.” Seasick replied. “That and I’m sure they’ll be a bit more understanding, with us being new parents and all…” 
“Yeah, for originally bein’ a human-hating dragon, Furious is pretty good with the kids.” Ellidi added.
[G]: “I’m sure,” Grey said. “He seems pretty on top of everything with being able to alert you when the kids are awake. Maybe Shadow can learn a few pointers.”
“Shadow has been doing pretty good now,” Brandt said. “The first few days were hard. I think she had a hard time understanding that Grey had some new responsibilities.”
[S]: “When I went into labor for the first time, Furious thought I was being murdered and tried to claw his way into the house.” Seasick explained. “Ellidi and my brother had to calm him down and explain to him what was going on.”
“I almost died during that chaos. Good times.” Ellidi said. “Furious is used to it now. During the last few deliveries, we had to order Furious to go for a long flight so he wouldn’t get all worked up again. He won’t admit it, but I think he really likes human children.”
[G]: “I’m wondering if we should do that for Shadow,” Grey said petting the Night Fury as she walked into the bedroom. “When I delivered Sven, the poor thing was forced to stay outside listening to me scream.”
Brandt stopped and looked at Grey. “I thought that was me,” he said. 
“Sorry, both of you,” she said. 
[S]: “Well, maybe for your next one, make sure Shadow is out flying.” Seasick suggested. 
“You’d think they’d be smart enough to leave without being told to, but I guess there is that sense of loyalty to them.” Ellidi said.
[G]: “It must be,” the Chief said wrapping her arm around Shadow’s neck. 
[S]: “At least Shadow is okay with Sven being around.” Ellidi said. “It would be terrible if she got territorial or jealous of the little tyke.”
[G]: Grey couldn’t help but look at Shadow and then at Sven squirming in Brandt’s arms. She then remembered how Shadow seemed confused as she told Seasick earlier. She remembered all the times where Shadow looked dejected when Grey told her they couldn’t fly on a certain day because she was tending to Sven. It was a wonder she didn’t try to get attention. 
“I think in a way, she understood what was going on,” the Chief finally said.
[S]: “I guess that’s true too.” Seasick said. “Shadow is a smart dragon, so it would make sense for her to understand what was going on. It’ll be nice when Sven is older, and he and Shadow can bond…”
[G]: “It will be,” the Chief replied. “Though I do hope he can one day find his own dragon.”
“What? You’re afraid our son will one day steal your Night Fury and take her on a joyride?” 
Grey chuckled and rolled her eyes. “Shut up,” she said. “No, I just think that our son will benefit from having his own dragon.”
[S]: “Saedis is trying to convince me to get on board with that same idea.” Ellidi said. “She thinks all of our children should have their own dragons…”
“It makes sense though,” Seasick butt in. “Most children don’t like to share things, and dragons would be no different. Besides, when they get older, they’ll want to travel on their own… Can’t do that if you’re sharing a dragon with your sibling.”
[G]: “No, I agree,” Grey said. “I think the kids will benefit from sharing things like toys, but dragons…they’re different. I mean…I don’t think I would’ve gotten as close to Shadow as I did if I had to share her with somebody.”
“Explains why she only seems to listen to you,” Brandt said raising an eyebrow at the Night Fury. 
[S]: “That, and they’ve been through a lot together.” Seasick said. “That definitely helped strengthen their friendship.” 
“But.. if we get a dragon for every kid we have… that’s gonna be a really full house, dear.” Ellidi said, widening his eyes in horror. “We’ve got 4 kids, which means 4 dragons, plus yours and mine… that’s 6 already…”
[G]: Grey thought a moment about Seasick and Ellidi’s situation. She had been so used to living with only her parents and Shadow. She hadn’t thought much about the living space because she never had that problem because her father’s dragon always slept outside while Shadow slept with her.
“Well, my dad’s dragon always slept outside,” Grey suddenly said. “Why not make a place for the dragons outside of your home? This way you won’t have to worry about living space.”
[S]: “Oh, of course!” Seasick laughed. “If the dragon is still young, it’ll be a bit smaller, and could come into the house, but I think for the most part, they’ll stay outside with Furious.”
“The last thing we need is dragon dung all over the floor and curtains on fire…” Ellidi said.
[G]: Grey cringed thinking about those early days with Shadow. “Yeah…that was never fun to deal with,” she said.
[S]: “I suppose it’s a blessing that Furious is too massive to fit in any building then.” Seasick said. “He’s apparently still a young dragon and will keep growing. How big he’ll get, I’m not sure, but he’s already huge.. I’m almost afraid of how big he’ll get in the future.”
“Probably the size of a small mountain.” Ellidi answered. “Good luck tryin’ to sneak him into the house!”
[G]: Both the Chief and the husband laughed together at Ellidi. However, as soon as they did, Sven began to cry yet again, and all it took was a small whiff of the air from Shadow to know why. The Night Fury gave a disgusted croon and buried her face in her paws to block out the smell.
“Ugh, Shadow’s right,” Brandt said picking up the baby. “Someone needs to be changed.”
“Alright, let me take care of it,” Grey said taking Sven into her arms.
[S]: “Need any help?” Seasick asked, placing Hafdis down in her crib for another nap. “Ellidi, why don’t you take Eydis and Havelock out to the living room to play?”
“Don’t need to tell me twice!!” Ellidi said, scooping up Havelock and ushering Eydis out of the room.
[G]: “Uh…yes, Seasick,” Grey said placing Sven on his back on the bed. “Thank you.”
“We haven’t exactly mastered this part completely yet,” Brandt said.
“Yet? I don’t think we ever will,” Grey said raising an eyebrow at Brandt.
[S]: “Well, rule number one, hold your breath.” Seasick instructed, as she passed Grey a clean cloth. “Also, don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty. As long as you remember to wash your hands thoroughly, you should be fine.”
[G]: Grey raised an eyebrow at her friend and then looked down at her newborn son. She finally took a deep breath and held it as she began to take the diaper off.
[S]: “Oh yeah, that’s a big mess you got there!” Seasick said as she reeled backwards. “Well, make sure to wipe up as best you can. Sven should be much happier. It won’t be so bad once you get him potty trained.”
[G]: “Oh, potty training,” Brandt said with a deadpan expression. “Won’t that be fun?”
If Grey wasn’t busy holding her breath, she would’ve said something to Brandt to quiet him. But for now, all she could do was roll her eyes and continue to clean little Sven. Soon enough she cleaned him up and was about to put on a clean diaper.
“Uhh…how do you do this again?” she asked.
[S]: “Well, every mother has her own way of doing it, but I can show you the quick and easy way.” Seasick said. She walked over beside Grey and slowly demonstrated how to put a clean diaper on Sven. 
“There! all done!” Seasick exclaimed, smiling down at Sven. “You think you’ll be able to manage?” 
[G]: Sven only cooed in response and squirmed, but he finally calmed when his mother picked him up.  
“I think that’s a yes,” she said. “Thank you, Seasick.”
[S]: “No problem. I think you and Brandt will do fine. You’ll get the hang of it eventually.” Seasick replied. “Besides, you have lots of help if you ever need it.”
[G]: “That’s true,” the Chief replied playfully tapping on Sven’s chubby chin. She then looked at Seasick. “And we are eternally grateful.”
[S]: Seasick returned a smile. “I’ll admit, having more than one is a lot of work, but it’s worth it. And I know it’s only been two weeks, but do you think you’d want more kids?”
[G]: Grey thought for a moment. So far, it had been a lot of work raising Sven, but despite all the early morning feedings, changing diapers, crying, and so on, she was honestly enjoying it. She had always wanted a child of her own, and now she finally did…with the possibility of having more. 
“I think so,” said Grey. “I mean I’ve always wanted kids, and yeah, Sven’s been a handful. But when I look at him, it’s…such a great feeling, you know? I can’t really describe it.”
[S]: “I understand completely.” Seasick replied. “And you’ll feel even better when he starts walking and talking. Eydis, while her vocabulary is limited, comes up with some pretty funny stuff.”
[G]: “You know, as much as I hate being woken up at night,” Brandt said as he sat down on the bed, “there is nothing like hearing him cry. It’s…soothing…in a strange way.”
“Yeah,” Grey said. “It reminds us that he’s there. Still, though I can’t wait for him to start talking.”
[S]: “It’s funny, while in the rebellion, I figured I’d always be out adventuring and fighting, never settling down. I thought being a mother wouldn’t be my thing. But I’m really glad I am one now.” Seasick said. “Even with three kids, I’m still not over being amazed by them.”
[G]: Grey smiled. “Well, I can tell that you are a great mother,” she said. “I honestly never thought about having kids until Asha’s daughter, Siri, and Greg and Warren’s children were born. You know, it’s nice knowing that I’m not just an aunt or a Chief or even a Lady anymore. I’m also a mother.”
[S]: “We both have our hands very full.” Seasick laughed. “But it’s worth it. I suppose if I wasn’t a mother, I’d be out sailing and searching for new dragons. I admit, I miss the adventure a bit, but maybe I’ll get back to it once the children are older…”
[G]: “Yeah, maybe even take the kids with you,” Grey suggested. “Make it a family thing! It could be fun!”
[S]: “It’s something to think about, that’s for sure.” Seasick said. “Hey, maybe when Sven is older, he can come along too!”
[G]: “Oh of course,” Grey said excitedly. She then looked down on her newborn son. “I’m sure Sven would love to take a trip with Aunt Seasick and Uncle Ellidi, wouldn’t you? Yes, you would. Yes, you would.”
Sven only responded by reaching up and grabbing Grey’s finger. 
“I’m taking that as a yes,” Brandt said smiling. 
[S]: “And you two can come too!” Seasick said. “Maybe when you guys come to visit, we can go flying. We can show you some of the hidden caves around the island.” 
[G]: “That would be great,” Grey said excitedly. “And we can always take tours around here too. There’s a lot of Haligan Island you still didn’t get to see.” 
[S]: “That’s true, you have to give Ellidi and I the grand tour!” Seasick replied. “Of course, we can do that whenever, seeing as we’re staying for a week or two.” 
[G]: “Sure,” said Brandt. He then turned to Grey. “We can have your mother watch Sven.” 
“Of course, perhaps, we can do it tomorrow, you know when I’m dressed and my hair is brushed and I actually look like the Chief of Haligan Island,” said Grey.
[S]: “Tomorrow sounds good. Today, you two should just relax while Ellidi and I handle Sven. Perhaps you two should have your own nap.” Seasick said. “Oh and Grey you look fine, no one will think any differently of you.”
[G]: “Thank you,” Grey said smiling at her friend. “And are you sure? I mean I would love to catch up on sleep, but–”
“Grey, it’s okay,” Brandt suddenly said. “She offered, and we’re both exhausted.”
[S]: “Of course I’m sure!” Seasick smiled at Grey and Brandt. “If I wasn’t sure, I wouldn’t have come visit! Really Grey, just relax and catch up on some sleep. Ellidi and I can look after the baby, Shadow, and the house. It’s not a problem.”
[G]: “Well, alright,” Grey said smiling at her friend. She then looked down at Sven and kissed him on the forehead. “You be a good boy for Aunt Seasick and Uncle Ellidi, okay?”
Sven cooed in response. 
“Sounds like a yes to me,” Brandt said as he settled back into bed. 
Grey chuckled as she gave her son over to Seasick smiling. “Thank you,” she said. “Wake us up if you need anything.”
[S]: “Don’t worry, I will.” Seasick replied as she slowly closed the bedroom door. Carrying little Sven into the living room, Seasick smile down at the baby boy.
“Finally convinced them to rest huh?” Ellidi said as he played with Eydis and Havelock on the floor. “About time!”
“They definitely need their rest, and this gives us the chance to bond with little Sven, and practice for our 4th child.” Seasick replied, sitting down in on of the chairs.
“Well, let’s practice quietly,” Ellidi whispered. “Don’t want to wake the parents!”Category:Grey Bergman
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