Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

My name is Hiccup Horrendous Haddock. I am a 17-year-old boy in my last year of high school. I live in the city of berk. I have a huge secret that no one except me and my parents knows about. Do you know how most people have dogs or cats as pets? Well, I have a pet that nobody else can know about. I have a dragon with skin black as night. His name is Toothless. I have to keep him safe from selfish people that will hurt him. The last person that got hold of him removed one of his tail fins. You may ask ‘Hey hiccup how did you get yourself a dragon?’ Well, my mother and father work at a secret base that holds dragons, and when I met Toothless for the first time we connected right away. We couldn’t leave each other’s side. When my parents tried to convince me to leave, Toothless could not let go of me. My parents finally gave in and they let me take Toothless home. That happened three years ago, and Toothless and I have been inseparable ever since. I made Toothless a prosthetic tail fin to replace the one he lost so he could fly again. I ride Toothless with his prosthetic tail fin, but only at night to avoid the unwanted gaze of those who want to hurt him. But even with my parents and all the people who work for them, the secret of the dragons somehow got to a group of notorious dragon hunters. Why are there dragon hunters if dragons are a secret? Well, there are a bunch of people who believe that dragons truly exist. The group that knows about my parents’ secret base of dragons is Vigo Grenborn and his brother’s group. If they manage to steal any dragons, they will sell them and get billions.

Vigo doesn't know that I have Toothless, but if he finds out it will be a big problem. Toothless and I are always watching for him and his group, but I have never shown my face. In one of my fights with Vigo, in an attempt to keep him away from the base, I got shot in my left leg. The doctors tried everything they could to save my leg, but I ended up losing it. I had to tell my friends that I lost my leg in a car accident so that they wouldn’t get suspicious. None of my will ever know about my secret. They can’t know. I have to keep the dragons safe. At all costs.

*
At school

Hiccup was calmly reading one of the new novels he just started before his other classes started. He was scanning every word and as he got more invested the people talking in the background disappeared. He could picture the words coming alive in his mind. As Hiccup was just about to start the next page he felt someone tapping his back. Hiccup looked up from his book to see Astrid standing there. “Hey, Hiccup! Why aren't you coming to the arcade with the group?” She asked, her voice filled with genuine confusion as she took a set beside Hiccup. “Oh, hey Astrid. I just don't have time, you know. Between school and my project, I don’t have time.” Hiccup said, putting his book down to look at Astrid. She playfully nudges his shoulder, “You need to take a break. You’ve been doing way too much, and you look tired.” She sighs, her eyes filling with determination. “If you're not going then neither am I. I’m just going to hang out with you today. I miss hanging out with you, Hiccup.” She pauses, her eyes searching his. “You know, If there’s something wrong you can tell me. I’m here for you” She put a hand on his shoulder, her grip firm but comforting. A smile tugs at his lips as he looks at her. “Thank you, Astrid. But I just don't have time tonight with school and my projects.”
“Then I’ll help you.” She says, her eyes burning with determination. “You can't keep avoiding people and you know it!” Her voice is filled with a steely resolve that tells Hiccup she’s not going to let him out of it. “I am not getting out of this, am I?” Hiccup asked, laughing slightly. She chuckles, nudging his shoulder with her elbow “No you’re not!” She glances at her watch, noticing the time. “Class is starting soon. I’ll see you after school.” Astrid said, getting up from her seat and walking away.

*

The bell rings, indicating the end of the school day. Hiccup makes his way outside, sitting on a bench by the door of the school. He waits for Astrid, a feeling of trepidation in his stomach. He likes spending time with Astrid, but her coming over to his house means that he has to hide Toothless in the basement of his house. He sighs, knowing there’s no point in fighting with Astrid. Lost in his thoughts, he doesn’t notice Astrid coming up behind him. “Ready to go?” Hiccup jumped slightly at the sound of her voice. Looking up at her, he smiles. “Yeah. Let’s go before I throw my prosthetic leg at someone’s head” Hiccup teased, standing up. He tried to ignore the uncomfortable feeling between him and the prosthetic leg.

*
At Hiccup’s house, he and Astrid were catching up on homework and chatting. Astrid looks up at Hiccup, confusion playing across her face. “Hey Hiccup… Why don't you hang out with the group anymore? It's been like a month.” She puts down her textbook, looking at him with a face that expects an answer. He chuckles awkwardly, “You know, the normal. I just get distracted with new inventions,” he says, looking at Astrid with a smile that doesn’t quite reach his eyes. “Are you sure?” She asks, obviously not buying his excuse. “You know I am here for you, right?”
“I know, Astrid. Thank you. I kn-” Hiccup’s voice gets cut off by a big bang coming from the basement. Astrid jumps slightly at the sound. “What was that noise?” She asks, her voice tinged with concern. “Is someone trying to break in?”
“Oh, it's just the laundry machine. It's been acting… Weird lately” Hiccup said, chuckling weakly.
“Are you sure that's normal?” Astrid asked, crossing her arms across her chest. Hiccup shrugs, trying to play it off. “Oh, it’s fine. Don’t worry about it. It does it all the time”
Astrid glares at him suspiciously. “If you say so.” She sighs, uncrossing her arms and sitting back down in the chair.

Bang!
Astrid jumped up out of her chair. “Hiccup! That is not the laundry machine! That was way louder than last time!” She exclaims, her voice filled with suspicion and concern.
“It's fine.” He says, standing up beside her. “You know what? Let’s go out to eat. You’re probably just hungry’ He walked over to his bedroom door and opened it. “Come on.” He said, trying to hide the urgency in his voice. She glares at him suspiciously. “Ok…” She followed him reluctantly.
Once Hiccup finally convinces Astrid to go outside with him, he asks, “Where do you want to go?”
“How about the Island Cafe?” Astrid suggests. “Sounds good to me.” Hiccup says, smiling.
As they walk down the street, Astrid keeps asking about the noise back at his house, but every time she gets the same answer “It was the laundry machine”. Eventually, Astrid gave up asking and changed the conversion.
When Hiccup and Astrid finally made it to the cafe, they both ordered their drinks and food and sat down in a corner booth by a window. “You should come to the amusement park with us next weekend, Hiccup,” Astrid said, taking a sip of her drink. Hiccup looked down at his food, not wanting to look at her as he said, “Sorry, I promised to help my parents next weekend, maybe next time,” Hiccup said with a forced smile, trying to seem believable. Astrid frowns. “You say that most of the time, Hiccup. What do your parents need so much help with?” Astrid said trying to gauge whether or not he was lying. His eyes widen a bit as he tries to think of a good excuse. “That’s a… good question. They just said they needed my help. Parents are weird, right?” Hiccup said, trying to sound as convincing as possible. He chuckles nervously, his eyes darting around the booth. Astrid folds her arms across her chest as she glares at him, obviously not believing his story. “You're not a good liar. You’re hiding something, Hiccup.” She sighs, her face softening. “You know you can tell me anything, right?” She looked at him, an expression of worry playing across her face. She hoped she could get the truth out of her childhood friend. “I know, Astrid. But everything is fine. I just need to get going home soon.” He said, packing up his stuff.” Astrid sighs in defeat. “Ok. I guess I should too.”
“See you on Monday, Astrid.” Hiccup said, standing up from the booth before walking away.
*
When Hiccup arrived home, he raced down the dimly lit corridor to the basement, his heart pounding with anticipation. As he reached the bottom of the creaky stairs, he was greeted by the sight of his best friend, Toothless, the sleek, black dragon with shimmering scales. Toothless pranced eagerly toward him, his bright green eyes glinting with joy. “Hey, bud!” Hiccup exclaimed, a wide grin spreading across his face as he scratched Toothless under his chin, the familiar warmth of their bond enveloping them both. “Sorry, I took so long. It's almost dark—do you want to go for a ride?” Hiccup asked, his voice filled with excitement. The evening sky was already transforming to deep hues of indigo and violet as night approached, casting an enchanting aura over the world outside.
As they stepped into the cool night air, Hiccup climbed onto Toothless's saddle, maneuvering his prosthetic leg into the paddle while adjusting the straps to secure himself. He flicked Toothless’s tail fin open, and in an instant, they burst skyward. They shot into the night, the wind whipping through Hiccup's hair as they soared high above the tranquil landscape below, where the world was painted in dark shadows and shimmering moonlight.

Flying in the dark was their secret, their thrill. They had to be careful, though; the risk of being spotted was ever-present. Although some had caught glimpses of them, it was always just a fleeting shadow against the starry sky. It was kind of funny how people speculated about the strange occurrences they witnessed at night, crafting bizarre stories to explain the mysteries hidden in the dark.

After a bit of messing around, Hiccup settled on the idea of going out to scout for Vigo and his companions, to find out what they’re up to. It had been nearly a week since they last ran into Vigo, who had been desperately trying to track down Toothless after hearing whispers in town about a mysterious black monster roaming the night. Under the cover of darkness, Hiccup navigated through the quiet streets of their village, the moon glowing softly overhead, casting silvery shadows on the cobblestones. For about two hours, he and Toothless scoured the area, their senses heightened and alert, but they found no sign of Vigo or his friends. As fatigue began to settle in, they decided it was best to head home.

“Hey, mom and dad! I’m back!” Hiccup called out as he stepped into the warmth of their cozy home. The familiar scents of home-cooked meals and the faint aroma of hearth smoke embraced him. He headed straight for the kitchen, grabbing a cool cup of water. “How was school today?” his mother, Valk, inquired with a warm smile, her eyes lighting up at the sight of her son. Hiccup finished his cup of water before responding. “It was good. I hung out with Astrid after school.”
“That's great! You haven't spent time with your friends in about a month. It’s about time,” she replied, her smile widening. “Yeah, it was really nice,” Hiccup mused, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. Clearing his throat, he shook off the nostalgia. “Well, I’m going to bed. Goodnight. C’mon, Toothless, let’s go,” he said, glancing back at his companion, who was patiently waiting. Hiccup made his way to his room, Toothless trailing closely behind.

“If he could take Toothless everywhere, he would,” Stoick remarked, his deep voice carrying a hint of both amusement and exasperation as he watched Hiccup’s door swing shut behind him. “No kidding,” Valk replied, nodding with a smile.
*
Hiccup woke up the next morning to find Toothless sprawled across most of his bed, his sleek, black form making it a challenge to find space for himself. Despite having his own cozy bed, Toothless always preferred curling up next to Hiccup, creating a warm and comforting presence that started his day off right. As he swung his legs over the side of the bed, Hiccup could hear the familiar sounds of the household stirring. Rubbing the sleep from his eyes, he made his way down to the main room, the wooden floor cool beneath his feet. “Good morning, Mom,” he called out, spotting Valk at the stove, her hair tied back in a messy bun as she made breakfast. “Good morning, Hiccup. Hey, you should make plans with your human friends,” she suggested with a knowing smile, glancing at him over her shoulder. He sighs, “Yeah, maybe soon. Where’s Dad?” Hiccup asked, pouring himself a glass of milk. “He’s out at the base,” Valk replied, her tone light. “He was going to take you and Toothless, but I figured you’ve been so busy lately that you could use a break,” she added, settling down at the kitchen table with a cup of steaming coffee.
“What else would I do today?” Hiccup asked, a hint of sarcasm lacing his words as he grabbed a piece of golden-brown toast and placed it on his plate. “Well, you could hang out with your human friends,” Valk replied, her voice turning a bit serious, capturing Hiccup’s attention. “Fine. They have plans next week,” he conceded as he began to munch on his toast.

*

Hiccup and Toothless soared through the cool night air, the wind rushing past them as they scouted the quiet, shadowy expanse of the city below. The moon hung high, casting a silvery glow over rooftops and alleyways, but the hour was growing late. Just as they began their descent home, he caught sight of a flicker of movement in the darkness—a familiar figure creeping into a peculiar building shrouded in mystery. It was Vigo, followed closely by his brother, Riker. “Stay low, Toothless,” Hiccup whispered, his voice barely louder than a hush. With a graceful dive, they landed softly on the cobblestone path outside the strange structure. Hiccup’s heart raced with a blend of excitement and trepidation as he scanned the building for a way inside. Spotting an open window on the ground floor, he motioned for Toothless to follow him. Climbing onto Toothless’s sturdy back, Hiccup felt the familiar warmth of his dragon beneath him. “Help me up, bud,” he murmured, and with a gentle lift, he was able to hoist himself through the narrow opening. He peered into the dimly lit room beyond, his heartbeat echoing in his ears as he strained to listen. Cautiously, he stepped down the narrow staircase, each creak of wood amplifying the silence around him. He paused halfway down, just enough to catch snippets of the conversation floating up from below. “What did you find?” The voice was unmistakably Vigo’s, low and conspiratorial. Hiccup leaned closer, tension coiling in his stomach. “I got information that Stoick Haddock and his wife run the place. They have a son. He must be the one with the Night Fury,” Riker replied. The words sent a shockwave through Hiccup, stirring a sense of urgency within him. He had to warn his father. With a determined breath, Hiccup pivoted and raced back up the stairs, his mind racing as fast as his feet.

Chapter Text

“This is final, Hiccup. You’re not going out with Toothless anymore.” Stoick’s voice was a low rumble, laced with a fear Hiccup had never witnessed in his father before. The weight of the words hung between them like a thick fog, heavy and suffocating. Hiccup could see the tension etched into Stoick’s brow, the way his hands trembled ever so slightly as he clenched them into fists. “Dad, I understand that this is serious,” Hiccup replied, his heart pounding in his chest. “They’re hunting for Toothless and me, but I can’t just walk away now. They won’t stop until they find every last dragon. I’m the only dragon rider—not just a caretaker like the others. I can’t abandon them.” The fire in Hiccup's eyes mirrored his determination. “If you’re worried, let me gather more people.”
Stoick inhaled deeply, his gaze steady yet troubled. “Son, bringing more people into this might only make things worse. We have to trust those we already have. Should we really drag others into this chaos?” His voice softened, but the underlying concern was clear. Hiccup weighed his father’s words, feeling the gravity of the situation sink deeper. Stoick was right; trusting the wrong people could spell disaster, and those who worked for him had only ever been trained in caring for dragons. “Dad, please,” Hiccup urged, his voice steady despite the turmoil inside. “Trust me. I know I can choose the right people to help.” There was a spark of hope in his voice, a glimmer of his conviction that these dragons deserved protection. After what felt like an eternity, Stoick’s resolve faltered. He sighed heavily, the fight leaving him. “Alright, Hiccup. Just know that this responsibility weighs heavily on you.” With a nod, Stoick recognized the truth in his son’s determination, though doubt still clung to him like a shadow. Hiccup felt a mix of relief and new pressure; the fate of the dragons rested on his shoulders.

As Hiccup lay in his bed, the soft quilt cocooned him in warmth, but his mind was restless. Thoughts swirled like leaves caught in a brisk autumn wind, sifting through everyone he trusted enough to help him. Faces of friends and allies flashed before him, each one a flicker of loyalty and support, but as he delved deeper into his thoughts, one name anchored his heart: Astrid. Her fierce spirit and unwavering strength stood out vividly in his mind. She was the embodiment of bravery, capable of facing whatever challenges lay ahead. A sense of relief washed over Hiccup as he settled on the idea of confiding in her. As the weight of his thoughts pressed down, his conscience slowed—each worry dissolving into the night. Gradually, he felt himself slipping into a dreamless sleep, the world around him fading as he surrendered to the comforting embrace of slumber, knowing that in the light of dawn, he would seek out Astrid.

As the morning sun gently filtered through the window panes, casting warm golden rays across the room, Hiccup moved through his usual morning routine. Today, however, felt heavier than most. A restless night had left him weary, the weight of overthinking pressing down on him like a thick fog. The late-night excursions with Toothless, while exhilarating, were beginning to take their toll on him. Finally, with his backpack slung over one shoulder and breakfast barely touched, he made his way to bid farewell to his faithful dragon companion. Stepping outside, the brisk morning air enveloped him, sharp and invigorating, rousing him from his sluggish state. It felt like a splash of cold water on his face, awakening his senses as he trudged toward the school.

Upon reaching the familiar brick facade of his school, Hiccup inhaled deeply, readying himself for the day. The myriad of voices and laughter filled the air, a typical cacophony of student life. He scanned the crowd, searching for a familiar face to settle his nerves. As he entered the classroom, the mixed scents of chalk dust and old books welcomed him, reassuringly familiar. Settling into his seat, he glanced across the room and his gaze landed on Astrid. The moment their eyes met, she flashed him a warm smile, radiant and genuine. Her smiles always brightened his day.

As the class droned on, Hiccup felt his eyelids grow heavy, the words of the teacher fading into a muffled blur. Suddenly jolted awake by a sharp kick on his leg, he shot upright, as if launched from a cannon. Blinking rapidly, he tried to regain his bearings, the classroom coming back into focus. In front of him stood Astrid, her brow furrowed with concern. “Class is finished; you just slept through it,” she said, a mixture of disbelief and worry in her voice.
They stepped out into the hallway, where the noise of students faded to a dull hum, creating a somewhat quiet spot for them to talk. Hiccup took a deep breath and mustered a smile. “I’m fine. I just didn't sleep last night,” he replied, though the words felt more like a mask than a truth. It wasn't a complete lie; his nights had been plagued by sleeplessness for months, the weight of worry pressing down on him like a heavy fog. He knew he had to stop Viggo and Riker, no matter the toll it took on him. Lost in a whirlpool of thoughts, Hiccup barely registered Astrid’s voice trying to break through until she gently shook him. His head snapped up, and he met her eyes—wide and filled with concern. “Hey, Hiccup, you good? I’ve been trying to talk to you,” she urged, the edges of her mouth tipping down as concern deepened in her gaze. She had been worried for him for a while, and he knew he wasn’t making it better. Before he could respond, she shook him again, this time more urgently. “Hiccup, come back to the real world!” There was a heightened worry in her eyes, reflecting the deep connection they shared. “I’m sorry, Astrid. I’m just tired… and I was lost in thought,” he finally admitted, though he could tell she wasn’t entirely convinced. “Hiccup, I’m here if you need to talk. You’ve always been there for me. Please talk to me,” she urged gently, her voice steady but filled with emotion. In that moment, Hiccup felt a flicker of realization: maybe he did need someone to confide in. He loved his parents deeply, but vulnerable conversations weren't their forte. “Thank you, Astrid. That means a lot to me,” he said, and her worried expression softened into a small, reassuring smile. “Are you going to tell me what's going on in your life?” she asked, her curiosity piqued. Hiccup hesitated, sensing the weight of his tumultuous thoughts swirling within him. After a long moment of contemplation, he replied, “Yeah. Just… not here and not yet. Come over to my place tomorrow.” Doubt gnawed at him—was this a wise decision? But deep down, he knew he could trust her. He had to.

The day had finally arrived when Hiccup would reveal his secret to Astrid. From the moment he woke up, a gnawing anxiety gripped him, turning him into a nervous wreck. He couldn’t concentrate in any of his classes; each tick of the clock felt like an eternity as his mind spiralled into thoughts of how she might react.
After school, he positioned himself on one of the worn benches in the bustling schoolyard, where laughter and excitement filled the air. Students darted around him, their voices a blur of chatter, but all he could focus on was the impending conversation with Astrid. The weight of his confession pressed heavily against his chest as he envisioned the moment: “Hey, Astrid. I’ve been hiding a dragon in my house and I need your help to take down Viggo.” His heart raced at the thought. Would she laugh? Would she believe him? And worse, would she tell someone? Suddenly, her familiar voice cut through his turbulent thoughts, yanking him back to reality. “You ready, or are you just going to sit there?” She shot him an inquisitive look, eyebrow raised. His mind scrambled for an excuse, but in a moment of panic, he blurted out, “Yeah, yeah, I’m ready. Let’s go.” Dread gripped him as they started walking toward his home, each step seeming to amplify his feelings of uncertainty. The tension hung thick in the air, and as if sensing his internal struggle, Astrid broke the silence. “So, what did you want to tell me that was so secret that you had to wait a day?” Her curiosity was genuine, yet it sent an icy shiver down his spine. Hiccup paused, taking a deep breath as he felt the weight of his decision hanging in the balance. “Astrid, what I’m going to show you has to stay between us. I trust you, and I really need your help.” He glanced at her, searching for assurance in her steadfast blue eyes. She stopped, turning to face him fully, and in that moment, he felt a flicker of hope. “Thank you, Hiccup, for trusting me. I promise I won’t tell anyone.” Her words wrapped around him like a warm blanket, offering a sense of comfort against the impending storm of revelation that awaited.

The house stood in eerie silence, its emptiness echoing the stillness of an uninhabited place. A faint rustling hinted that Toothless was likely tucked away in the basement. Hiccup paused at the bottom of the stairs and turned to face Astrid, his expression serious. “Astrid, what’s down in the basement isn’t exactly normal. But you have to trust me—when you see Toothless, don’t be scared. He won’t hurt you.”
“Toothless?” she echoed, her voice laced with skepticism. She studied him, her brow furrowed, as if he had just suggested they dive into a volcano. Hiccup merely rolled his eyes, a mixture of exasperation and amusement flashing across his face. “Just follow me.” Together, they descended the creaking wooden stairs, each step resonating in the otherwise silent house. As they reached the basement, darkness enveloped them like a thick fog. Hiccup's voice cut through the stillness, a beacon of reassurance. “Astrid, I’m going to turn on the light. Just… don’t panic.” With a flick of the switch, the harsh fluorescent lights flickered on, slicing through the darkness like a sword, momentarily blinding them both. Hiccup blinked, trying to adjust to the sudden brightness, when a large, scaly, black figure pounced on him, tackling him to the ground. He let out a soft laugh, a mix of joy and surprise. “Hey, bud. I have someone for you to meet.”
Hiccup looked up at Astrid, the panic etched across her face as clear as a summer sky. “What the hell is that?” she gasped, instinctively taking a step back. He straightened himself, a mix of pride and nervousness fluttering in his chest. “His name is Toothless,” he replied, gesturing towards the magnificent creature beside him. “He’s a dragon. Specifically, a Night Fury.”
The fear in Astrid’s eyes shifted to astonishment, her eyebrows shooting up. “Wait, are you telling me that everything you’ve said about dragons, the history, the sketches—it’s all real? Do your parents know you’ve been hiding this from everyone?” Her mind raced, a whirlwind of questions swirling inside her. “Yes, it’s all true,” Hiccup assured her, a small smile tugging at his lips, breaking through the tension. “And of course, my parents know. Toothless isn’t a cat or a dog; he’s a dragon. They’re not exactly easy to hide.” He chuckled softly, his gaze drifting back to Toothless, whose bright green eyes flick between him and Astrid. “My parents have been keeping the dragons safe for years. Come here.” Gently, Hiccup took her wrist, guiding her closer to Toothless, a mix of anticipation and trepidation filling the air. He brought her hand to rest against the dragon's shoulder. Astrid hesitated, her heart racing, before finally allowing her fingers to brush against Toothless’s warm, shimmering black scales. Toothless's scales were warm and smooth to the touch, with a slightly ridged texture reminiscent of polished stone.
“He's beautiful,” she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper, as her eyes shimmered with awe, fixated on the magnificent dragon before them. Hiccup took a deep breath, feeling a weight settle in his chest that he had never experienced before. “I need your help,” he confessed, his voice trembling slightly. In that moment, the turmoil he had kept bottled inside began to spill over. Even when he lost his leg, he’d always managed to carry the burden alone, unwilling to lean on anyone else. Astrid turned her gaze from the dragon, her expression softening as she looked at him, concern etched in her features. “What do you need?” she asked, her tone steady and reassuring. Hiccup's heart raced as he continued, “You can say no after I tell you. After you agree, there's no going back.”
Astrid nodded, her curiosity piqued and her heart heavy with the recognition of his distress. “I need you to become a dragon rider,” he admitted, the urgency thick in his voice. “It’ll be dangerous, and we might die, but we have to protect the dragons from Viggo and his brother. You can say no now and never talk about it again, but I really need your help, Astrid.”
Silence enveloped them, broken only by the gentle rustling of leaves in the breeze. Astrid’s gaze shifted back to Toothless, the faithful dragon nuzzling her hand, sensing the tension in the air. She took a moment, her brow furrowing in deep thought. “I will help you,” she finally declared, her voice resolute. “I want to always be there for you, Hiccup. I want to be a part of your life, and if this is the only way, I’ll do it. Besides,” she added with a mischievous glint in her eye, “riding a dragon sounds like fun.”
Hiccup's eyes widened, a mixture of disbelief and gratitude flooding over him. Was she truly certain? The love he held for her surged within, battling the instinct to protect her from danger. “Are you sure, Astrid? This is really dangerous, and I don't want you to get hurt.”
Taking a step closer, Astrid enveloped his hands in hers, grounding him with her touch. “You’re really stupid,” she teased softly, a playful smirk dancing on her lips. “I love you, Hiccup. I always have. And if you need my help, I will help you.” They stood locked in each other’s gaze, the world around them fading into a muted backdrop as time seemed to stretch infinitely. Before Hiccup could voice his concerns again, Astrid leaned in, her lips brushing against his with a tenderness that sent sparks racing through him. The kiss was delicate yet fiery, enveloping them in a cocoon of warmth and longing. When they finally pulled away, Hiccup leaned his forehead against hers, breathless and mesmerized. “I love you too, Astrid,” he whispered, the weight of his emotions spilling forth. He had always loved her. She smirked softly, her eyes sparkling with mischief, and playfully punched him hard in the shoulder. “That’s for worrying me all these months,” she teased, a light laugh escaping her lips. Hiccup felt a rush of warmth in his chest, the kind of joy that only came when they were together. “I won’t try to do it again,” he promised, his voice earnest as their gazes locked, filled with an unspoken understanding and love that transcended words. No one had ever made him feel this way before, except for Astrid. They inched closer, the world around them fading into a blur as the warmth of her lips brushed against his. It sent delightful shivers coursing through him, igniting every nerve. After a moment, Astrid broke the spell, her playful smile lighting up her entire face. “When do I get my dragon?” she asked, her voice teasing yet filled with excitement, as her arms wrapped around his neck, pulling him even closer. “This weekend, I promise,” Hiccup replied, his heart racing. “Dad knows I was going to tell you. You’ll get to choose your dragon.” He couldn't help but grin at the infectious joy that lit up her features. “How about I get you started with your lessons about dragons?” he suggested, leading the way upstairs. Toothless, ever loyal, followed closely behind, his curious eyes watching the two as they moved. When Astrid finally joined Hiccup in the cozy living room, he was already seated on the couch, the soft glow of the evening light enveloping them. He patted the spot right beside him, inviting her closer. Toothless lay sprawled on the floor, lazily curled around Hiccup's feet. As Astrid settled in beside him, Hiccup began to share everything she needed to know about dragons. Astrid leaned her head against his shoulder, the weight of it feeling oddly comforting, and for a brief moment, he tensed, surprised by the intimacy of the gesture. But as he settled back, he relaxed into her warmth, instinctively wrapping his arm around her waist and pulling her snugly closer.

Chapter Text

Astrid pov

The atmosphere at school the next day was electric with excitement. I found myself surrounded by my friends at our usual table, the familiar sounds of laughter and chatter creating a comforting backdrop. But today, everything felt different. Although it wasn’t bad. It was a strange mixture of nostalgia and relief; my best friend, now my boyfriend, had finally trusted me with his biggest secret. I couldn't help but wonder how someone could carry such a heavy truth for years without revealing it to anyone. I had always sensed that Hiccup was hiding something, but this revelation was beyond anything I could have anticipated—it was not normal. As I settled into my seat, the familiar banter of my friends pulled me back into the moment. “Nooo! Don’t eat that chicken, Ruff! It’s innocent!” Tuff exclaimed dramatically, lunging across the table in a desperate attempt to save Ruff's lunch from being devoured. Ruff shot back, unfazed, “Chicken is good, Tuff. You should try some!” Tuff had been this way ever since the day he had gotten lost in the forest and discovered a chicken he insisted had saved his life, leading to his current crusade.
He leaned back, raising his hands in a mock-serious pose. “I am starting a petition for chicken rights. Anyone want to join?” His overly theatrical tone elicited a round of snickers from the table. The last time he’d mentioned his ‘noble’ cause, someone had shoved a cooked chicken in his face. He cried for a week. “I’m good,” Hiccup replied casually as he sat down next to me. “I’m busy most nights anyway.”
“It’s for chicken rights!” Tuff insisted, turning to face Hiccup, his expression earnest. “They matter too, and they’re just as smart as people!”
Hiccup shot back, “Maybe you’re as smart as a chicken, but I’m not as stupid as one.” The sass rolled off Hiccup’s tongue like honey, and laughter erupted around the table, filling the atmosphere with warmth. The only one not amused was Tuff, who sat there with his arms crossed as he glared defiantly at Hiccup. "Good luck with the petition, Tuff," Hiccup said, his lips curling into a half-smirk. "Last time didn't go so well."
He looked even more exhausted than he had yesterday, his usually sharp features softened by the dark circles under his eyes. Was he getting any sleep at all? Did he have to go out again after I left? How many hours does he manage to sleep each night, anyway? A flood of questions rushed through my mind, but his voice broke through the chaos of my thoughts.
"Are you just going to stand there staring, or are you going to say something?"
I lifted my gaze to meet his, a flicker of concern crossing my face. "How much sleep did you get last night, Hiccup? You look even more worn out than you did yesterday."
He simply shrugged, the motion dismissive. I couldn’t hold back the concern in my voice as I shifted my expression, turning from worry to something firmer. "Hiccup," I said, my voice a bit more insistent this time. He hesitated, his brow furrowing as if he was debating whether or not to answer. Finally, he sighed, barely meeting my eyes. "Like... an hour or two. I’m not really sure."
My eyes widened in shock at his answer. How does he survive on so little sleep? I could never. "Hiccup, you need rest. This isn’t healthy for you," I said, my voice a mixture of deep concern and frustration. He glanced up at me, offering a faint smile that did little to mask the overwhelming exhaustion etched into his features. "I can’t afford to waste time sleeping," he replied with a shrug, his tone too casual, as though brushing off the gravity of the situation. "I need to find Vigo. I’ll rest once he’s gone."
"Hiccup," I said, my voice softening as I took a step closer, my heart aching for him. "You know I’m going to help you, right? You trusted me, and I’ll do whatever it takes to help. But please... take care of yourself." I reached out and gently took his hand in mine, squeezing it with quiet determination. "We’ll do this together, Hiccup." I’ve never been so certain of anything in my life as I was at that moment.
“What’s going on here?” Snotlout’s voice cut through our conversation like a blade, his tone laced with suspicion. “Since when did you two get so close?”
Hiccup let out a frustrated sigh, shooting Snotlout an exasperated glare. “Don’t you ever shut up, Snot?”
Snotlout folded his arms, clearly unbothered by the irritation in Hiccup’s voice. “Well, excuse me for being curious. You’re never around anymore, Hiccup. So I have every right to question how you two suddenly became best friends.”
I rolled my eyes. This again? Honestly, I think Snot just misses Hiccup—but, of course, he expresses it in the most annoying way possible.
“I’ve been busy,” Hiccup grumbled. “Astrid and I do homework together, so we spend time together.” His voice was clipped, his patience thinner than usual. Hiccup always had a remarkable ability to tolerate Snotlout’s antics, but now, even the smallest provocation seemed to set him off. He really needs to sleep. Snotlout’s eyes narrowed at him, suspicion written all over his face. “What exactly have you been doing that keeps you so busy? Do you have some kind of secret life no one knows about?”
For the briefest moment, Hiccup’s body tensed, his shoulders going rigid—but it was so subtle that no one else would have noticed. “No,” he said quickly, too quickly. “My parents just need my help.” I could see the frustration building in him, the exhaustion weighing him down like a heavy cloak. “For the last couple of years?” Snotlout pressed, pushing his luck. Hiccup snapped. “Yes!” he barked, his voice sharp with irritation. “Leave me alone! What I do in my free time is my business.” The fire in his eyes made it clear—he was done. And for once, Snotlout actually seemed to get the message. He went quiet, though I had no doubt he’d bring it up again eventually.
Hiccup leaned toward me, his voice barely above a whisper. “I forgot something. I’ll be right back,” he murmured before pushing himself to his feet. The movement was sluggish, his exhaustion weighing him down like lead. I knew better. He hadn’t forgotten anything. He just needed to get away. “I’ll come with you,” I said, standing up as well. He hesitated, clearly wanting to refuse, but the moment he saw the determination in my expression, he gave up and simply nodded.
The walk was silent, the kind of quiet that felt heavy rather than peaceful. Hiccup’s steps dragged slightly, his shoulders slumped. He was barely holding himself together. Instead of letting him wander aimlessly, I gently steered him toward a secluded spot, far from the prying eyes of our classmates. Most of them were in the cafeteria anyway. “Hiccup,” I said softly, my voice tinged with concern. “I think you should go home. You’re clearly exhausted, and you’re not yourself.”
He lifted his head just enough to glance at me before shrugging. “There’s only a couple of hours of school left,” he said, his tone casual, but it felt forced. “Maybe after.”
“Hiccup, ‘maybe’ isn’t good enough,” I pressed, my brows furrowing. “When was the last time you got a full night’s sleep?”
He dropped his gaze to the ground, his foot scuffing absently against the pavement. For a long moment, he didn’t answer. Then, finally, he let out a weary sigh. “I don’t know,” he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. “I wish I did.”
His words sent a sharp pang through my chest. “What does your dad think about all of this?” I asked gently. Surely, Stoick wouldn’t let his own son run himself into the ground like this. “Not well,” Hiccup muttered. “He’s tried to get me to sleep more, but it’s too late now. Vigo knows about Toothless.” He lifted his head then, his green eyes clouded with exhaustion but shining with something else—hope. “That’s why you have to be sure you want to help me. It won’t be easy.” His words hung between us, heavy with unspoken fears and unbreakable resolve.
“Hiccup, I’ve never been more sure about anything,” I murmured, cupping his face gently in my hands. His skin was warm beneath my fingertips, the exhaustion in his eyes stark against the soft green. Without hesitation, I leaned in, pressing a quick, reassuring kiss to his lips.
When I pulled away, a small, slightly sheepish smile tugged at his lips—cheesy, but undeniably adorable. My heart clenched at the sight of it. “Please tell me you’ll at least try to sleep,” I pleaded. The smile faded. His gaze dropped to the ground, avoiding mine. Something was wrong.
I bent down slightly, tilting my head to meet his downcast eyes. “What are you not telling me?” I asked, lifting his chin so he had no choice but to look at me. His expression was raw, his tired green eyes filled with a deep, aching sadness. When he finally spoke, his voice was barely above a whisper.
“I can’t sleep, Astrid.” His throat bobbed as he swallowed hard. “I have nightmares—almost every night. I know it’s stupid, but…” Before he could finish, I wrapped my arms around him, pulling him into a firm embrace. “It’s not stupid, Hiccup,” I whispered into his shoulder. “It’s normal, especially after everything you’ve been through alone.”
His arms tightened around me, and I felt him take a shaky breath, his whole body trembling slightly from the weight he carried. “I’m here for you now,” I murmured. “And I love you, Hiccup.”
A soft, broken sound escaped him, and then, finally, the dam broke. Silent tears slipped down his cheeks, his body shaking with emotions he had kept buried for too long. He doesn’t deserve this. He never should have had to hold so much in. “I’m sorry,” he muttered, rubbing at his face with the back of his hand. I reached up, brushing the lingering tears away with my thumb. “Hiccup,” I said softly, my voice gentle but firm. “It’s okay to cry. It doesn’t make you weak.” When I was younger, I used to believe that crying meant weakness. But over time, I learned that allowing yourself to feel makes you stronger. We all need emotions. Hiccup parted his lips as if to respond, but for a moment, no words came. Then, finally, in a hoarse whisper, he managed, “Thank you, Astrid.”
I pulled back just enough to look up at him, offering a small, reassuring smile. “Of course, Hiccup.” I wiped away the last of his tears, my thumb brushing gently against his cheek.
“We should head back to the cafeteria,” he said after a moment, his voice still slightly uneven.
He was right. We had been here long enough. But I wasn’t done trying. “You should go home,” I pressed again. He exhaled through his nose, shaking his head. “I will. After school.”
I rolled my eyes but decided to let it go—for now. Instead, I leaned in, pressing one last small kiss to his lips before we turned and made our way back inside.

School had been overwhelming lately—just two more months until graduation. The excitement and fear of it all blended together, making everything feel like it was moving too fast. Life had changed so much in just the past week, and I barely had time to process any of it.
As I walked down the street, I spotted Hiccup sitting alone on a bench. He looked drained, his shoulders slumped, eyes unfocused. Shouldn’t he be heading home by now? “What are you doing?” I asked, sliding onto the bench beside him. He barely glanced at me. “I just wanted to sit here for a bit before going home.” The streets around us buzzed with life—cars passing, people hurrying home, the faint chatter of conversations blending into the cool evening air. “You know… I don’t really have anyone waiting for me at home,” I admitted after a moment. “I could go with you.”
He gave me a questioning look. “If you want. But I thought you wanted me to sleep.”
I rolled my eyes, nudging him lightly. “Of course I do. But I also know you won’t actually sleep, and I don’t trust you to take care of yourself.” The truth was, I just wanted more time with him. He let out a tired sigh before shrugging. “Sure. Let’s get going.”
Being home alone had been harder than I expected. My parents were away on another business trip, leaving the house feeling emptier than ever. I had nothing to do, no one to talk to—another reason why I didn’t want to go back just yet.
As we walked, the conversation drifted to dragons. It was a welcome distraction, but even as he spoke, there was something off. His voice lacked its usual spark, his responses quieter than normal. He really needs to sleep.

Walking into Hiccup’s home, the first thing that caught my eye was a sleek black dragon bounding toward us, his green eyes shining with excitement. Hiccup laughed at the sight, a genuine, warm smile spreading across his face. “How are you doing, bud?” he asked, kneeling down to scratch beneath Toothless’s chin. The dragon purred in response, leaning into his touch like an overgrown cat. We settled onto the couch, and almost instantly, Toothless flopped down beside Hiccup, resting his large head in his lap. Hiccup absentmindedly stroked the dragon’s head, his fingers running over the smooth scales.
Breaking the comfortable silence, I asked, “How do you even pick a dragon?” Hiccup glanced up, his expression thoughtful before he answered. “We don’t, really. They pick us.” His voice was soft but certain. “The dragon usually makes the first move—they’ll ask to bond, and you can either accept or decline. Toothless came to me the second time I visited, and ever since then, we haven’t been able to be apart for long.”
The idea fascinated me. Getting a dragon must be incredible, but riding through the sky with one? That had to be absolutely breathtaking.
When the time had come for me to leave, I hesitated for a moment, glancing at Hiccup. His exhaustion was more evident than ever. “Hiccup, I should go,” I said gently. “You need to get some sleep.”
He let out a tired sigh, rubbing the back of his neck. “Yeah… I guess I should.” His voice was heavy with weariness, but there was a softness in his eyes as he looked at me. “Thanks for coming over.” Pushing himself to his feet, he stretched slightly before asking, “Do you need me to walk you home?”
I shook my head, offering him a small, reassuring smile. “I’m only five minutes away. I’ll be fine, but thank you.” He nodded, though the concern in his expression lingered.
Before I turned to leave, I stepped forward, pressing a soft kiss to his lips—a fleeting moment of warmth and quiet reassurance. “Get some rest, Hiccup,” I murmured against his lips before pulling away. He watched me go, standing in the doorway, his eyes filled with something unspoken. And as I walked away, I silently hoped that, for once, he would listen.

Chapter Text

I am not stopping it, but writing legends don't die, have a better plan. I rushed into this one, but the other one is planned out

There are legends carved into the cliffs of the North. Tales whispered through the howling wind, of dragon riders with inked skin and ancient bonds forged in fire and flight. Of immortality earned not by blood, but by love—so fierce, it defies death.

She’s heard the stories all her life, told in the soft voice of her father beside the fire: of dragons and their riders, of immortality born through love and loyalty. She never believed them. Not until now.

Now in her twenties and working as a seasoned search and rescue specialist, Astrid has seen many strange things in the harsh, snow-laced peaks. But nothing like this. Survivors speak of a man who flies with a dragon—silent and swift. A shadow in the sky. A myth made flesh.

Haunted by the loss of her father and driven by a pull she can’t explain, Astrid follows the trail of the legend. But what she finds isn’t just a man or a dragon. It's a truth buried by time, a bond that once changed the world—and might do so again. Because some stories aren’t just stories.

And some legends never die.

go check it out once I plan this one out better, I will go back to it.