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Hesitancy (Semi - Song Fic: song used: I Bet on Losing Dogs - Mitski)
Firmly your steps echoed off the old stone walls. Ancient as the walls may be those who dwelled within its caverns were young and hungry for blood. Metal scraped on stone sending piercing shrills throughout the interior. Of those inside, it was taboo to speak. Only those of high order barked out commands to the underlyings.
This nasty, wet, cold stone hall was just one of the many frightening locales that you and your dragon trappers resided. You were just one of the many low ranking scouts who hunted and trapped easy to grab dragons whos lives would live a life of pain and suffering under the masters ruling. Though terrible a life you lived it was not a life you've chosen freely. Though you'd dare not think about it for it distracts from the now.
Speaking of which what made you pace these eerie halls was what was waiting beyond those doors. Your Leader was attending a meeting to discuss the current trapping situation. Life for you trappers hasn't been easy. Rumors of dragon riders muddying your affairs have been floating around. You couldn't believe it.
Though reality would strike you cold as you heard the metal shreak of the meeting hall door open. Its metal frame scrapes along the stone as dragon cries reverberate off the walls. Only they are strong enough to move such a door and it will be their duty so long as the are chained to it.
Your leader sauntered out to stand before you. He nearly passed you by as you stood completely still and quiet. You only observed the other leaders passing by without so much as a peep from your mouth. You weren't here to kiss ass and be of service to those who gave you nothing in return.
Once the rest of the leaders were out of earshot your leader, a tall, olden warrior from a distant tribe, and somewhat of a lose cannon. The only laughter that was to be heard from this place came from your leader.
He laughed as he greeted you and he laughed as he introduced a shorter man behind him. But not much shorter than your leader he stood tall and assertive, his bald head gleamed under the cracking fire from the torches above.
You dare not give this man any more than a quick glance. The only one deserving of your attention was your leader, who took a notice to your blatant dismissal of his new friend.
Your leader: awwwwww what ever is the matter my dear? Why the long face?
Your leader cackles maniaclly as he playfully slaps you around in an attempt to loosen you up a bit.
(Y/N): . . . I didn't picture you as the type to make friends. . . but just because their yours doesn't mean their mine.
You speak cold and bitterly only looking at your leader.
Your leader: Oh really? Why a surprise? I'm a friendly guy!
He says while cracking a toothy grin only stopping once he realizes you're not giving him the time of day.
Your leader: . . . how annoying. Why must they insist on dropping the stern stubborn types onto me?
Your leader speaks openly to no one in particular. Truth be told "friends" is a very very very loose term to be throwing around these parts. Aquantinces was even a stretch for most. Business partners was all the relationship people could muster before someone gets too close to stab you in the back. You kept all relationships at a long arms length. Only conversing to those who would give you what you wanted and never giving those who couldn't the time of day. It's how you survived. The bald man behind your leader seemed indifferent to your dismissal of his presence, he didn't even bother talking to your leader as he hands him a rolled up scroll before taking his leave elsewhere.
Your leader: . . . well if my friend can't put a smile on that sour face of yours then this surely will!
He said with a sing song tone in his voice. As the scroll uncurled you read the text that lined the paper. Taking the paper out of your leaders hands and into your own your eyes hastily scanned the text. You couldn't believe it. . . .
A cold gaze befell onto your leader as you let the paper drop to the floor. Turning heel you decided to take your leave as well. Your boots firmly stomping on the ground only stopping once your leader got a hold of you.
Your leader: What's wrong deary? . .. The job too big for you to handle?
(Y/N): *Bitterly* It's a joke that's what that is so quit screwing with me and give me an actual job.
Your leader: . . Oh! But this isn't a joke at all I swear of it! *he picks up the paper and practically shoves it in your face* . . .See right there eyewitness testimony and all. . .My dear the only joke here is you. Or need I remind you why you're here.
His hands firmly grip your shoulder has his fingers dig into you. You knew you had no choice here. . ..you knew you had no say, but even still how were you supposed to hunt this Night Fury?
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As soft clouds passed overhead the sun shone brightly from above all was quiet and all were relaxed on this peaceful afternoon morning. Astrid and Hiccup were busy practicing their swordsman ship as Toothless and Stormfly trained together in the background. Snotlout and Hookfang were doing all they could to one-up the others and the twins were speciating from above only joining in to try and sabotage and prank the others.
The day couldn't get any better except for the back and forth Pacing that Fishlegs was doing as he circled Meatlug who was happily napping under the sun.
Hiccup noticed his friend's worry as he observed him hastily muttering to himself. As he paced around he frantically flipped through his stacks of papers he was holding.
Hiccup: Fishlegs? Is everything alright?
Fishlegs: *Startled* . .Oh!! . ..uh yeah yeah. . nothings wrong. . .
Hiccup: . . Okay? Well you seem to be doing a whole lot of pacing for nothing. Is there something wrong with Meatlug.
Fishlegs: No! No. She's fine its. . its just. . .
Hiccup: Yes?
Fishlegs: Uh . . Well . you see. . *deep breath* So when I was out scouting like I normally do with Meatlug, we went around to the surrounding islands to do a headcount of all the dragons to see if they were alright because of course they would be alright, because why wouldn't they be alright! Well everything was fine for a while until I noticed that a few of the islands were missing a few dragons and I know that they had to be missing because I always count, I mean I ALWAYS count and so I don't see why I would be wrong in my counting, I have to be right so then where did these missing dragons go? and. ...
Hiccup: Woah! Woah! Slow down . . .I'm sure its just a simple mistake.
Fishegs: No Hiccup I know my counts are accurate and this isn't just some simple miscounting.
Hiccup: *he sighs but does his best to reassure Fishlegs*. Look why don't I and Toothless go check this out, if this really is something strange then you should feel better if you have another set of eyes to help you scout. Toothless!
Toothless perks up and waddles on over to Hiccups side.
Hiccup: *Hiccup climbs atop Toothless* Alright bud you ready to head out?
Toothless purs happily.
Hiccup: Welp, you lead the way then Fishlegs.
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Flying for a moment, it didn't take long for Fishlegs and Hiccup to arrive at their location. Looking at this first small island nothing seemed out of the ordinary. This island was home to a group of Deadly Nadders. Normally this island would appear to be overrun with the dragons as they flocked and filled the skys though Hiccup couldn't deny that their numbers have appeared to dwindle.
Hiccup and Fishlegs land a bit off to the shore as to not disturb the sleeping nadders on the islands surface. As Hiccup, Toothless, Fishlegs and Meatlug observed the surrounding area everything seemed fine, but Hiccup couldn't shake this unsettling feeling that was starting to creep up his spine.
Fishlegs: *worried* . . Hiccup I'm starting to get this nervous feeling again.
Hiccup: . . .Yeah I'm starting to feel it too. But I don't understand. Everything looks fine to me!
Fishlegs: But everything is not fine, when I was here last week I counted 40 Deadly Nadders on this side of the island!
Hiccup: Yeah well there definitely isn't 40 Nadders here.
Still Hiccup tried his best to ease Fishlegs worries as he tries to think of a reasonable enough explanation as to why half of the nadders are gone.
Hiccup: Have you checked the other side of the island? Maybe the other Nadders are taking a little vacation to the other beach.
Fishlegs: And go near the Monsterous Nightmares?! Not a chance these two groups hate each other and are always fighting for territory! That's why I've been checking up on here to make sure they haven't burned this island to the ground!
Hiccup: . . . Well we can't know for sure if we don't check. Toothless, lets hope no dragon war is occurring anywhere on this island.
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As Hiccup and Toothless survayed the island Hiccups unease feeling was only festering more and more as they flew around. Still no signs of the missing Nadders. Hiccup couldn't tell if it was a good thing that there wasn't a trail of blazing fire to follow or not. On one hand the island was still intact but on the other hand that didn't explain where the Nadders could have gone. It became a bigger issue when Toothless flew over the Monsterous Nightmare resting area and there was no sign of any Nadders there picking a fight.
Turning back around Toothless became agitated. He could sense that something was wrong as he wouldn't listen to Hiccup and nearly crashed into a few trees in the forest.
Hiccup: Woah!!! Bud!? Toothless!!!!
As Toothless landed on the floor he began to shield Hiccup his body paced along the floor as his eyes darted around him. Hiccup took this as a sign to prepare for a fight. As his hands went to grip his sword in ready, Hiccup closely followed Toothless's body. As the trees swayed and the leaves fluttered in the wind both dragon and rider came to a halt. Not a sound was made, not even their bodies moved.
When all the world seemed to stop, Toothless suddenly flared to life as he darted his head towards an unsuspecting location. Through the trees a simple Dragon trap, a net with some weights whipped through the leaves. Toothless fired off and managed to burn the trap to ash with only a few stray rope bits pelting against his skin. In an instant Hiccup mounted Toothless as the two fled the scene. What followed after was a barrage of these similar traps flying through the trees from all directions. Toothless was graceful enough to dodge each trap but Hiccup would unfortunately have his answer as to where the missing Nadders might have went.
Flying towards the sky Hiccup eventually found Fishlegs who was also dodging traps of his own.
Fishlegs: HICCUP!!
Hiccup: I know! Traps! We need to get back to the Edge and warn the others.
Fishlegs: I can guarantee you that this is what happened to the Deadly Nadders.
Hiccup: And if there are traps here there must be trappers near by. And if they're on this island it's only a matter of time before they find their way to the Edge. . . .Fishlegs I need you to fly ahead of me and try to warn the others.. . I'll stay here and try to get rid of as many traps as I can find to make sure no other dragons get harmed.
Fishlegs: But?
Hiccup: Go! . . I'll be right behind you as soon as I can but the others need to be prepared by the time I get back.
And with that Fishlegs and Meatlug flew as fast as they could back to the Edge while Hiccup and Toothless scouted around to disarm the traps.
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Several hours had passed since Fishlegs made it back to the edge to give the others a fair warning of what Him and Hiccup had discovered. Astrid nearly lept on Stormfly to try and help Hiccup only stopping when Fishlegs had informed her that all Hiccup was doing was disarming a few traps. To be fair neither him nor Hiccup spotted any actual dragon trappers. This information didn't nearly settle Astrid down as Fishlegs had hopped. Honestly the lack of trappers is suspicious all things considered. Before Astrid had the opportunity to fly away Hiccup and Toothess were spotted in the distance flying back to the Edge.
Astrid: What were you to thinking??? Any trapper could have come out from nowhere and done something really awful especially to Toothless? Why didn't you have Fishlegs stay? Or worse why didn't you tell him to let me help you.
Hiccup: Astrid, its . . it's all fine me and Toothless were just disarming the traps.
Astrid: Yeah I know! *she settles down for a moment* . ..It's just if something would have happened to you or Toothless, how would any of us know until it's too late. . . How would I have known?
Hiccup felt a bit guilty for leaving everyone in the dark again. He had this bad habit of doing first and thinking later that was starting to take Astrid for a spin, especially if it involved dragon trappers.
Hiccup: *Sheepish* You're right Astrid, I'm sorry. . . not just to you but everyone. *Trying to be positive* well . . look on the brightside there were no trappers after all!
Astrid: *Lightly punching his side* You still could have had one of us help you!
Fishlegs: And not to mention I still wouldn't consider that to be good news. . . I mean if the trappers weren't around today they definitely will be back especially since you up and destroyed all of their traps.
Ruffnut: *Chiming in* Yeah and you didn't even invite us!
Tuffnut: Don't you know that's like our whole thing!!! And I thought we were friends.
Hiccup: *Rolling his eyes* Yes thank you for bringing that up again twins. . . I'm sure to use your expertise the next time a bunch of dragon trappers decide to leave a whole islands worth of traps just laying around.
Tuffnut: Yeah you better!!
Snotlout: *Unamused* I still don't get what the big fuss is! Hiccup got rid of their junk and all is saved so why worry!
Hiccup: No, no. Fishlegs is right the trappers will definitely be back for their broken traps not to mention the island they set those traps is way to close to the Edge for my liking. If any of those trappers take their hobby elsewhere they'll for sure find a way to the Edge.
Fishlegs: *a bit annoyed* Which is an obvious problem for our Dragons unless you want all of us, including you and Hookfang to be captured?
Snotlout: . . . . well when you put it like that.
Hiccup: *Sigh* Well now that we're all on the same page, guys we need to first focus our attention on finding those trappers before they find us. I suggest we take a little vacation to that island first thing in the morning to see if anyone's shown up to clean up the mess.
With that final remark each rider rode back to their hut to get some semblance of sleep before their big day tomorrow
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As the morning sun peaked through your armor you didn't have time to enjoy the small batch of sunlight that peaked into your armor. Nor could you enjoy the small breeze that danced between the crevasses of your armor. No you were much more preoccupied with the burning fire smell that still lingered despite a whole night passing since the perpetrators destroyed your traps.
Fortunately, by the looks of it this damage wasn't done by any dragon. Unfortunately for you, this only confirmed your Crazy leaders ramblings. From the looks of your papers and what was written these burn marks could have only been caused by a Night Fury.
Standing before the damage all you could do was sigh out in frustration a stern "Shit" was all that escaped your lips.
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Arriving at the island Fishlegs did a headcount of all the Deadly Nadders he could spot on shore. From the looks of it, all the ones counted yesterday were here today. This meaning one of two things, the trappers fled once they noticed all the damage done to their traps or the trappers have yet to come back to notice the damage in the first place.
Hiccup: Alright gang, we need to be on the lookout for anything that can be a sign of trappers.
Snotlout: What? Besides the already destroyed traps from yesterday?
Hiccup: What I mean is if you find any new ones don't destroy them.
Ruffnut: What!?? But that's like the only reason why I tagged along.
Tuffnut: Sounds like he wants to keep all the destroying to himself!
Hiccup: GUYS! Please. This is serious. If any new traps are placed that means the trappers are indeed here. If we destroy the new traps that could draw too much attention to ourselves. We don't know for sure how many there are. If you find a trap, stay safe, and try to meet back up with Fishlegs on the coast. He's in charge of keeping an eye on these Nadders to make sure no more get captured. So lets split up and stop these trappers.
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Flying through the woods Hiccup and Toothless, did their best to keep as low and as quite as they could. The ever agile Toothless zipped and twisted through the trees keeping a sharp lookout for any new traps. So far neither him nor Hiccup could find anything besides the damage they had done yesterday. That was until they spotted a clearing. There lay in the center of the opening a pile of leaves that appeared to be covering a pit of some sort, netting was also mixed within the pile. This was definitely a new trap.
Hiccup: . . . Well that's a tad underwhelming. Guess their really hurting for decent traps if this is what they're doing now, wouldn't you agree bud?
Hiccup tried his best to make light of the situation but Toothless could only stand at guard. His eyes shifted around gazing through the trees and bushes that surrounded this clearing.
Hiccup: Well, anyways we should head back and warn the othe. . . .Toothless?
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You couldn't believe what you were seeing, by the Gods your crazed leader was right. There in the flesh, scales black as the night sky, fangs that could rip your arms to shreds, piercing green eyes that could leave you paralyzed. Between twigs and leaves of your hiding spot was the Night Fury. Unfortunately you had little left to make proper traps so this pit in the clearing was all you could come up with. Not to mention, the Night Fury wasn't alone. Just looking up a bit anyway could see the man who sat upon this unholy offspring of lightning and death. Were they another trapper? Did they already claim the beast? . . . Even still you had a job to fill and you weren't going to let anyone take that away from you friend or foe.
Though with shaky breaths you felt as if you couldn't move. As your hands lay dormant on the hilt of your sheathed sword, you didn't have it in you to charge and attack. What was this feeling? Why were you scared? You never faced a foe you couldn't best but as the Night Fury paced around the clearing you had no idea how you were going to overtake them. But it would appear you wouldn't have much time to think of any plans. As the Night Fury became enraged as they fired off directly at your hiding spot.
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Leaping from out the bushes you narroly dodge the Night Furys blast. You had little time to look at the hedge that was now a burning flame of smoke and ash. From what your notes warned, the Night Fury was an aggressive ruthless hunter. Their shots can tske out a wholr fleet of troops and their range was unheard of for most dragons. Worst of all where one blast goes five more shots follow. You quickly got to your feet as you prepared yourself to fight. Unsheathing your sword you weren't sure were to start. The dragon or the man who sat atop the dragon, who was now looking at your direction. They tried calling out to you, a angered warning that you ignored entirely. All you could do was keep dodging as the Night Fury was blasting shot after shot in your direction.
Once the Dragon seemed to loose firepower you too the chance and ran, running directly at the duo. Avoiding the beasts maw and claws you managed to tackle to man off the Dragon. Dragging him a bit away from the Dragon as you lifted your sword you were forcefully pulled away as the Dragon had picked you up by the scruff of your suit. Your back up to the teeth of his mouth the man before you was able to stand as he too prepared to fight. His sword and shield at the ready you realized the situation you were in. Though you weren't helpless. As you managed to wiggle free and tuck away before his shield made contact with your face, you got a good look at the duo. Anger and rage planted on their faces it was only then did you notice something suspicious. The dragon and man were not attacking one another. They were working together, that was when your heart sank. It only sunk further when the sounds other people began to approach your location. Suddenly you were surrounded by a whole group of young Vikings you appeared to be riding dragons of all sorts.
Now you were pissed. . . so much so you wanted to laugh. You silently cursed out your leader in your head. When you were so blatantly forced to take up this job none mentioned to you the Dragon Riders that would accompany the Night Fury. This was a set up and simple means to rid you of good as there would be no way to get out of this. . . at least not alive. But as if a silent voice arose to you ears from the depth of your heart you couldn't just give up. You weren't going to let all of those shady, good for nothing dragon trappers and your horrible boss win. With as mich adrenaline as you had you took a small clearing to try and run. Run as fast as you could your feet were burning as each steo your body pounded with the earth. But all was to be for naught. No one could outrun dragons, no one could out live a Night Fury. And as the Night Fury collided with your body one last time, all your eyes saw was the piercing rage of green eyed staring back at you as all faded to black.
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Awakening you find yourself behind bars. From the distant sound lf sea waves brushing up against shore you conclude that your location must be near the ocean. Probably another island of some sort. But there was no sound of chatter to be had besides the chatter of your captors in the distance. Not even guards blockade the entrance of your prison. Around you were other cages yet neither held any other prisoners. You must be their only priority thus the little need for heightened security. Not that any human help would be necessary. If what you recall you saw was true than any of these riders could lynch their dragon on you and end you.
You had little to say to these riders once they actually acknowledged your existence and huddled around your cell. You were stripped of all your belongings with nothing but the clothes on your back remaining. With your Helm gone too you were able to get a better image of the dragon riders before you and so were they able to get a clearer image of you. The only expression that you presented was distant and cold. Like your mind was off on another realm entirely. Even as some of the riders gave their own unamused stare back a few others had some choice words to say. Yet they never rattled you. They could shout and question all that they wanted especially the younger blonde lady with her spiked skirt and Ax wielding that didn't faze you. You've seen stronger ordinary footman who had the misfortune of working with the dragon trappers. . . you've had your fill of these tough good for nothing trappers getting under your skin. Just the thought of your leader caused you to remain quiet as your face twisted to rage. It was only after the sound of the outer doors closing did you realize that the riders had left you. Since you haven't revealed to them any information there was a good chance they would have no more use for a silent stowaway and only time will tell if you'll be kept alive for much longer.
As the cold night crept overhead and the silent waters of the ocean collided with the shore below all you could do was contemplate the future and cry. The one thing that your captors couldn't take from you was the necklace that you had stashed away under your shirt. Pulling it out revealed a large orange scale that was held together by a brown string. A symbol of all that you were fighting for that the longer you stared at the harder you cried.
(Y/N): . . .Mom. . . (Dragons Name). . . Oh Gods I'm so sorry.
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As Hiccup and Toothless made the rounds going about their day to day lives all was well on the Edge. All except one thing that has kept them up for countless nights. The current dragon trapper that has not given up any information, not so much as even a name as escaped their mouth as they lay in their cage in the Dragon Stables. Anyone could tell that they were the trapper that Fishlegs was worried about but all became worse once they realized that their main goal was to hunt down Toothless.
This has made a good part of the group wanting to rid this trapper for good. But Hiccup became firm in believing of keeping them alive. They need to know who sent after them and why. Neither Hiccup nor the others were able to identify the symbol that took up a good portion of each page that accompanied your bag. Besides your weapons countless pages of information showed hunters orders to trap dragons. And still it revealed very little of who you are and what threat you are to the dragons and dragon riders.
Snotlout: Who cares who or what they are!!!! They can go drown in the ocean for all I care! Or does our future chief need to be reminded what dragon trappers do to dragons?
Tuffnut: Oh! oh! I know this one! . . *ahem* Dragon trappers hunt and ki. . .
Hiccup: Yes Tuffnut! I know what they do but this isn't soke ordinary trapper.
Astrid: Yeah! Exactly! They're dangerous. Anyone who's ordered to hunt down a Night Fury is bad news Hiccup. I think I speak for everyone here when I say we get rid of them. If you don't then let your father handle them.
Hiccup: . . Astrid are you serious?
Astrid: *a soft worried sigh escapes her* Look . . I would follow you every step of the way Hiccup to do what you believe is right. I would follow you into a flaming pool of lava if you believed it would help you, but this. . this is more than what you believe in. This is for Toothless's sake or do you really want to risk saying goodbye to them so soon?
Hiccup could see he was outnumbered in the ordeal. His friends gave nervous glances as none spoke up about their feelings of the matter but Hiccup didn't need words to understand their worry. Even still Hiccup did as Hiccup does and tried to make peace with both his internal wants and Astrids concern.
Hiccup: . . .Astrid I hear you. . . I'll have them removed from the edge and hand them over to mu father. . . But. Only after I try talking to them tonight. Just give me that much okay.
Even though Astrid was still concerned she thought it fair to give Hiccup one last chance to try and solve this his way. Hiccup and Toothless left the others and wished them off to bed as they flew down to the stables to try and have one last "chat" with their silent prisoner.
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As the midnight moon shines overhead your prison remains a drak void. No light to comfort you, nor sound can be heard nearby. You are all alone and have had enough time to think about what is to come of your future. Since several days have passed since you've been able to report back to your leader he can only assume you to be dead. But thats not what troubles you. In the deepest parts of the trappers island holds a large orange and purple Deathsong. Their body beaten and abused as they remain in chains forced to do whatever the Trappers wanted them to do. Trapped beyond rubble and stone where not a sound nor cry can be heard from the surface. Though you would know of their once beautiful song for this dragon was once by your side from birth till you're run in with the trappers.
Just knowing that you were supposed to die from the mission only hurts worse that you aren't dead but rather rotting away in a makeshift prison forced to imagine your dragon is being tortured right now. This dragon who became a secondary mother to you after your own had died makes you want to cry. You can almost hear your dragons call. . . you can almost hear your mothers song. And so you sing, through crying and tears you sing.
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As Hiccup and Toothless land at the stables they hesitate to enter when they hear the soft cries and gentle sounds of singing coming beyond the stable doors.
🎵 . . My baby, my baby. . . you're my baby say, it to me. . . baby, my baby. . . tell you're baby that I'm your baby. . .🎵
As Hiccup and Toothless enter the stables they notice your form, laying on the floor facing the wall as you appear motionless. Only subtle breaths can be seen from you as you cry your soft tune.
🎵. . I bet one loosing dogs. . .I know their loosing and I pay for my place by the ring. . . Where I'll be looking in their eyes when they're down. . . .I'll be there on their side. . .I'm losing by their side . . .🎵
The singing only stops when your body turns around to face them, having noticed yhe change in lighting from the outside moon shining in through the door.
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Once you realize you have guests you quickly sit up. You frantically back yourself up against your cell wall. You prayed to the gods that they couldn't see your flustered appearance but your captures appearance says otherwise.
Hiccup slowly moved towards your cell.
Hiccup: Hey. . its alright do you feel like talking now since you've made time to sing?
He tried to comfort you, almost approaching you like a hurt animal but you still had bite in you. You barked at him to get away which only made his Night Fury snear at you too. Hiccup calmed him down but he himself refused to leave. He just started at you at gave a stern, no, as he planted himself on the floor to show you he wasn't moving.
Hiccup: "I'm not leaving until you talk, you can't keep this whole tough act up forever"
You almost laughed. How was this scrawny man of a Viking going to intimidate you into talking. Night Fury by his side or not what gives him the right to know!
(Y/N): HA! Why should I? . . . what do I have to give to you that makes my situation any better, you're not going to let me go so what difference does it make? I'm a dragon trapper and you're not so that's why I'm stuck here.
Hiccup wasn't prepared for your emotional outburst as he noticed the small tears that streamed down your face. Even Toothless softened up a bit as he paced around Hiccup.
Hiccup: Well . . .uh .. Dragon Trappers I know don't typically . . react as you are being caged up.
You only laughed in frustration as you turned away from your capture. Was he being serious right now?
Hiccup: But. . if you want the real reason is that after tonight my Father is going to be taking you away for good. . . and you'll be farther away from here unable to do any dragon trapping ever again so if you want to talk to probably the last sane person you'll ever see again this your chance.
Hearing his words for a moment you almost spoke out, you almost confessed but in your heart you had no idea where to start. . . or if he even would believe you.
(Y/N): . . .*the tears still fall from your eyes* . . . and how would I know you'd believe me.
Hiccup: . . Well it's not like you have anyone else who'll listen. *Toothless lays down beside Hiccup and rests against his side*
Settling doen yourself you realize that you don't have many other options. You turn him away and if what he's saying is true than there is a gopd chance that you'll life will be one of solitude and loneliness for the foreseeable future. If tonight is your only chance than so be it.
And so you told him everything. From the day you were born you had your Deathsong by your side. She was beautiful and kind and like a second mother to you. Your Deathsong was originally your mothers. It was just the two of them and you against the world as you lived on a quiet home away from all the others exactly how your mother wanted it to be. That was until your absent father came back into your life. A man your mother would rather have you never met. He was ruthless and careless. He, like many other Dragon trappers, cared not for the dragons, seeing them as nothing more than a profit to be made. Your mothers Deathsong was a profit he's been tracking down for a long while.
A long time ago your mother was a part of this life. She too trapped and sold dragons like your father, but once it was their task to raise a Deathsong to one day be sold off your mother didn't have it in her to sell the Dragon. She had grown attached to the dragon and she had raised alongside your father and so she fled. You weren't even born yet, just a fetus in the womb your mother fled to a place she believed no one could find her. And for many years this was the comfortable life you lived, on an island in a forest where no one could find you. But your father could, it took him a while but eventually your sanctuary became a hell overnight. You were just 14 at the time when your father came back to "claim what was his". Him and his fellow trappers came to steal your mother's dragon who was practically yours too. When your mother refused to give her away she was slain by the hands of your father. Not long after your mothers Deathsong, enraged, killed your father too. But her blind anger would be her undoing. Despite your father's death, the trappers that followed him didn't seem to care. It was that moment you realized how much a life means to the trappers as they care little to the lives lost to their own doing.
The trappers would capture the Deathsong and you as well. It was from then on that you became slave to the trappers. Working for them as your leader Shaped and manipulated you into becoming a trapper of your own. Always giving the promise that if you do as they say and serve them well, no harm will come of your Deathsong. But given this current mission they've given your finding it hard to believe if that was ever the case. Even still in your heart you want to believe your Dragon is alive, for it's the only hope you have left to hold onto.
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Listening to your words Hiccup dare not interrupt your heartfelt confession. He had no right to dismiss you or believe you a liar. For he too has seen the many horrors that come from dragon trappers. Their lives of hatred and fear this would not be unusual of them to do. As Hiccup reflects his own experiences it is Toothless who snaps him out of his thoughts. Toothless who was ready to kill this trapper just a few days prior was ready to accept this stranger as Toothless nudged at the cage.
Hiccup: . . . well bud, this is your decision just as much mine.
Toothless gave a reassuring nod and with that Hiccup opened your cage. Stepping back he saw you leave with hesitant steps. Once out in the open your pause was starting to worry him. But in an unexpected twist he was greeted with a warm hug.
Hiccup: . . *ahem* . .uhh well then, let's go. *He pulls you back, as he looks you in the eyes* we've got a dragon to save.
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It was quite a flight away from the Dragons Edge from where the dragon trappers island was that was holding your dragon. Having gone with just Hiccup and Toothless, both names you've learned on the way there as well as a great many other details, ment that your chances of getting caught were lowered. Less dragons and dramatic dragon riders ment less eyes on the sky. However if in the chance either one of you is caught, the chance of getting off the island is also lowered if not next to impossible.
Standing on the shore far away from any preying eyes you began to worry about this have baked rescue mission. Hiccup upon noticing your worry tries to calm you down as best as he can.
Hiccup: Hey. . let's not get ourselves worked up right now. You might find it hard to believe but I've delt with trappers before and have been in much worse situations than this. *he pats your shoulder* . . now I need your help, your dragon needs your help. The only way we can guarantee their safety is if you stay calm. Now tell me all that you know about this island.
With a better headspace the two of you managed to work together an escape route. One to get to your dragon and one way to get back out. It wasn't going to be easy. Many of the paths you needed to take made it so that Toothless remained flightless but this was the safest route you had, one without manu dragon trappers following, and so you entered through the backside of the mountain and hoped to the Gods above that no one was going to find you.
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All went well. . . too well for you're liking. Even through these quiet halls and offshoot paths there should still be signs of life around. But not a scream or a clang could be heard and it was unsettling you deeply. Still you moved forward, your fear set aside in order to save your precious dragon you kept pushing. It was only until the last moment before you reunited with your dragon did all hell break loose.
(Y/N): . . .Hiccup. Don't move.
Hiccup: What's wrong we're right there?
(Y/N): *looking back at Hiccup slightly* . . Let me go on a head first. There should be a gate that guards all the captured dragons. There should be guards there and . ... I can't afford either one of you getting caught.
Hiccup was hesitant but eventually agreed to let you go first.
Hiccup: Well . ... You're the expert. Just stay safe.
Going on a head and leaving the two of them behind in all honesty it wasn't them you were worried about. . . how were you going to explain yourself.
As you turned the corner the sound of your trembling steps and shaking breath were loud enough to drown your beating heart that felt like it was going to burst from your chest. Slowly as you gazed upon the empty hallway you were stunned to find no guards on sight. Now you were panicked. Without thinking you rushed to open the door of the dragon den and were, at the very least, relieved to see dragons on the inside. Their condition horrible as they remain chained and bound to their cages but dragons inside none the less. Thought you didn't have time to peak much inside as a large hand pushed the door closed. You didn't need to turn to see the fave of who this hand belonged too as the nasty, wicked voice that spoke to you gave it away.
Your leader: . . . Looking for someone, dear?
As your heart sank to the bottom of your chest you slowly turned to face your leader. But not wanting him to see your frightened appearance you did your best to try and remain stoic and cold as you always did.
(Y/N): . ... No sir. I was just making the proper preparations for. . .
Your Leader: foooor?
(Y/N): . . for the Night Fury of course.
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As Hiccup and Toothless waited and waited and waited some more the growing seconds turned to minutes and their patience was wearing thin. Being in unknown territory was already causing Toothless to stir. But being stuck on an island known to hunt dragons wasn't exactly keeping Hiccup at ease either.
Hiccup: Bud! We need to get them back something's wrong.
Toothless was ready to leave as much as Hiccup was.
Hiccup: Though I'm afraid we might be too late. . . let's just hope they haven't run into any unwanted company.
An unwanted company you did. As Hiccup approached the corner of the Dragon Holding area he stopped before he could be spotted. Behind the corner he was able to hear the sound of talking. The only familiar voice being that of your own.
(Y/N):.. . I was just making the proper preparations.
Unknown voice: fooooor?
(Y/N) . ..for the Night Fury.
That was all Hiccup was willing to hear. His anger and disappointment was enough for him to want to flea and leave. No words were exchanged between him and Toothless as they both took this as a sign of betrayal. Quickly they turned to escape before they had a chance to witness your impending doom.
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(Y/N): Yes sir . .. For the Night Fury that you had assigned for me to track down. .... i have it.
You were sweating terribly so. What were you to do? Exspose Hiccup and Toothless and have them caught? But you had no other choice. It was becoming increasingly harder to remain calm especially since your leader seemed unphased by the news.
Leader: Ooooh is that so? So then why don't you do me a favor and explain your missing ship then hmm? Why hasn't it returned to dock yet?
His own wicked demeanor was faltering by the second. As he gazed at you a stone cold expression.
(Y/N). .... That is uh . well Its because I rode the beast here. ... See I even have it tied down at the moment elsewhere. .
Leader: *as he seems to soften up a bit his demeanor quickly changes as he grasps at the large, Iron mace that remains firmly strapped to his backside. Grasping it he forcefully slams it down between you and him. The force breaks the ground as his gaze never leaves your eyes.* . . . And yet somehow I find that hard to believe. My dear you were supposed to be dead. But don't worry *he flashes his signature smile* I'll make sure your task gets completed one way or another.
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Running. Running as fast as you could as hard breathing escaped you. It was all ypu could do to save yourself. With no weapon to call your own this fight would be a death sentence for you if you weren't fast or nimble. Your leader may be strong but you were quick. You managed to escape his initial swinging as you ran back towards your initial escape route. However upon finding yourself in the same spot Toothless and Hiccup were supposed to be, and seeing as they currently weren't, you didn't even hesitate to continue running into the caves and tunnels to hopefully find them at the beach.
As you kept running and running and turning, eventually you made it back to the beach were you spotted one Hiccup and Nightfury ready to take off and leave you behind. As you called out to them you noticed how they didn't even bother looking back.
(Y/N): No. ... Wait! ...GUYS!!! PLEASE!!
As Toothless was ready to take flight you could barely keep going anymore. And so in an act of desperation you threw your dragon scale necklace towards them. You saw as it hit Toothless's side and as he looked at it Hiccup was the one to pick it up.
(Y/N): I'M SORRY . . I'M SORRY OKAY! . . . I . . I can't be saved . ...don't bother saving me but please! PLEASE! JUST PROMISE ME YOU'LL SAVE HER OKAY! . . . .she's deserves it.
Before Hiccup could process your plea he saw your body as it flew against the wall. The impact caused you to knock out almost immediately as your leader stepped forward to hoist you over his shoulder. His eyes locked in with Hiccup's and Hiccup locked eyes with him. For a moment it seemed as if your leader was going to try going after Hiccup but he stopped. He turned and slunked back into the hole of which he followed you out from carrying your body with it.
Toothless wanted to charge and fight back but it was Hiccup who suggested they leave.
Hiccup: Bud no! ....we have to go.
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When Hiccup returned back to the edge is was no surprise that both Astrid and His farther were ready to give them both an earful.
Astrid: Where did you fly off to this time and why isn't our dragon trapper behind bars!?!
Before Hiccup could speak Stoic was quick to chime in with his own complaints.
Stoic: I can't even begin to try and understand you this time son! You've let far too many ideas of yours get out of hand so I better hear a good explanation for why I'm showing up here with an empty promise.
Hiccup: Everybody please just calm down!
Astrid: Calm down? Calm Down? Hiccuo are you serious?
Hiccup: Yes! *He says sternly as he presents the necklace to the group.*
The large simmering orange scale catches everyones attention as they wait for Hiccups explanation.
Snotlout: Greeeat! Wow!! Good job Hiccup you finally found some taste but how does that explain anything?
Hiccup: It explains everything!
Ruffnut:. . . I get!!
Tuffnut: Obviously our muttonheaded friend doesn't get the picture, this is clearly a metaphor!
Hiccup: Oh for the love of Thor, this *he shakes the necklace a bit* Is the reason why our current prisoner is being held elsewhere. . .and I need to get them back.
Everyone looks at Hiccup in bewilderment especially his father who is less than thrilled that is son is getting up to his usual habits again.
Hiccup: Look . . I'll explain everything on the way but I need your guys help this is bigger than just saving one person.
Stoic: Let me guess, this involves a dragon too?
Hiccup only gives his father a reassuring smile before he mounts Toothless.
Hiccup: Now are you guys with me?
A silent pause and a bit of hesitation eventually the group agrees to go with him.
Hiccup: Good but we need to act fast, something tells me they won't be left alive for much longer.
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As tiny flames dance along the walls of your cell not much else accompanies you. No guard in sight nor dragon around as you sit chained to floor. The ground is rough and jagged as you feel brittle rock dig into your sides. The air is cool and dense as you feel your skin grow cold as your toes and fingers seem to numb with each passing minute. You've never seen this part of the island and you feel sympathy for those who have had to suffer in this old, cold place before you.
You don't know how much time has passed but every second feels like an eternity. It's only after a few more hours when your body is done pushing past the starvation of not having any food or water, does someone enter your space. You don't even have it in you too hold your head to gaze up, though by the looks of it, it is nothing more than two guards who have come to collect you under your Leader's orders. Bound and chained its hard to walk as they push and shove you to keep moving forward.
You know they won't kill you if you drop to floor but they'll surely drag you by the hem of your clothes to your destination. An execution room no less. After heavy walking and tired steps you make it to your spot. It hurts to see as you step into the light of the outside world. Despite the grim nature of this island the sun still shines upon it alk the same. You get a good glimpse of your surroundings as you notice the many guards and trappers that have come to watch your execution in the arena. At the very center watch tower hosts your leader who is more than eager to get the execution started. He can barely sit still as his excitement oozes out of him. He laughs and jokes amongst his comrades not caring for the life that he's about to snuff out under his own authority.
Before you even know it your body has been chained to the center of the arena as the surrounding guards and trappers cheer at the sight of your disheveled form. They only settle once your leader speaks.
Leader: Settle down, everyone! Settle down! . . .it is with great pleasure to have you all here with me today. Here before you I offer you a gift! For all being such loyal and wonderful trappers I give you all the best personal viewing of a lifetime! . . . Now many of you may have heard me said that tools are ment to be cared for, sharpened, and properly refined. . . and once their purpose is done they are to be let go.
He says all this wall sauntering about, not ever truly knowing the terror that you feel as you have to come to terms of your life being over before it ever really began.
Leader: And with you here I present to you my greatest tool of all. . . it's with great sadness that I have to let them go. *He says mockingly* . . . but why not get rid of one tool today . . . but rather two.
As he says his final piecce from behind you opens a large door to the arena. From it emerges an oh so familiar face. . . in chains, crying out in pain, emerges your Dragon. She who used to smile and sing so sweetly with your mothers tune. She who's orange scales used to shimmer brightly under morning sunlight. Now a whimpering mess as she sulks and cries in her web of chains that surround her body. A large muzzle has her mouth bound shut as to prevent the Amber that oozes from her mouth. Even though she's a shell of her former self, you know this Deathsong to be yours just by the look of her eyes. She too realizes as much when she glances your way. Despite her riders changed appearance, for a split second she's able to feel at peace just knowing her human is besides her once more.
Though the reunion is short lived as ahead of you, bursting through the door in front of you, a barrage of Deadly Nadders chained claw and kick their way towards you. Though the size of their chains keep them just enough away from you where you can't be touched. As the Nadders settle for a moment they eventually surround you as they are commanded to do by the guards on the arena floor. Similarly another group of guards surround your DeathSong as they hold crossbows to her body as they await for your Leaders Comand.
Leaders: Folks. . . the gift that keeps on giving! Today we hold a special execution. One of rider and her dragon. But as we all know I love to have a bit of fun! . . . Place your bets now folks! Will the dragon get shot or will the rider get turned to ash first?
Your leader pulls out a singular gold coin and as the world seems to stop and time slows down he lifts his hand and tosses the coin in the air.
Leaders: . . . The human for heads . . . the Dragon for tails.
With each spin all you could do was close your eyes and hang out head. The sounds of cheering, screaching and yelling all drown out as your body becomes numb. Heads or tails, doesn't matter your dead anyway. . . . or so you believed.
All at once the crowd gasps and stops. All turn to gaze up at the sky as your leader stands in disbelief at the scene above him. . . on the day the coin never returned to palm of your leaders hand, for it found a new home in the claws of one very angry Night Fury.
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Without a moment to lose all hell breaks loose as Hiccup and Toothless soar around the arena blasting all who try to flee. At this point many of the foot soldiers and trappers, yes even the bravest of the bunch, have turned heel to run away. But for them they'll find their escapes thwarted, for not only was it Hiccup and Toothless who have shown up but every rider on the Edge and Stoic the Vast have joined in the rescue mission. Each dragon began to shoot and fire at will at any target that moved.
It was Hiccuo who eventually dove down towards the ground to try and shield and free you. Fighting with every step of the way as he took on the guards who were in the arena. At this point the Nadders who were chained had been freed and had fled to commotion but not before firing off their own shots in the process.
This gave Hiccup enough of an opportunity to free you from your shackles.
(Y/N): . ...Hiccup. .you came back?
Hiccup: Yeah well I couldn't just let a promise like that be broken.
Hiccup hoists your body as he guides you over to Toothless.
(Y/N): But wait, we can't just leave my Dragon!
Hiccup: . . *He ushers you to stay on Toothless* . .don't worry I'll get them too.
But as Hiccup Turns around he's met face to face with your Leader once more who has entered the now flamed arena. He stands between Hiccup and your Dragon as he holds a crossbow to your Dragon's face.
Leader: I don't think so. . . I'm not sleeping well tonight unless I snuff out at least one of my prisoners. . . .and why not be a little considerate son of Stoic! *He flashes Hiccup a wicked grin* . ..you've got one of mine already. . ..why not make at fair and let me have my other half.
Hiccup steps forward but stops when your leader shows no signs of putting the crossbow down.
(Y/N): Hiccup! *You call to him frantically*
Leader: Unless .....you want to trade? Hm? Don't tell me the conquer of Dragons, the man who rides the winged beasts of death and destruction would choose a human over a dragon?
(Y/N): . . Hiccup its okay just let me go! Please!! *You practically cry out*
Leader: So which one is it going to be boy? The Dragon or the rider?
Hiccup looks back at your pleading form then he stares at his leader. In that moment looked to sky for answers and answers he did find for when he turned back to look at leader all he did was nod in agreement, a signal for what was to come next your leader didn't see coming.
Leader: . . .Is . .is that a nod for "yes kill the dragon" or ?
Before he had time to process a barrage of Deadly Nadder Spins swarm your leader.
Astrid: *From Above* I think he means "yes" to taking you Dragon Trappers down. Stormfly more spin shots!
As more spines flew in everywhich direction, surprisingly none of them hit your leader nor the Crossbow out of his hand.
Leader: Hahahaha!!!! You missed!
Hiccup: I wouldn't be so sure of that.
What your leader didn't notice was that the spine shots weren't directed at him but rather they were used to help break the chain for the very Angry Deathsong beside him. You leader couldn't even get a witty retor in as he was instantly covered from head to toe in Molten Amber. Those agonizing screams as he practically melted from the inside out would most likely haunt you for the next few years but at the end of the day your just glad that this is all over and both you and your Dragon are alive to see it.
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Several days had passed since your escape from the Dragon Trappers. Many had fled alive from the battle and are for sure on their way to serve and hunt dragons for someone else. However there is no doubt in your mind that your leader is officially in retirement. Forever. Although the fight is not nearly over to stop all Dragon Trappers in the archipelago, you were just happy enough to be reunited with your Death Song. Ready to face this new chapter of your life together in freedom.
Speaking of which this new chapter had began with spending a good portion of it with Berk's resident healer. An older lady you'd learn is Gothi. She did her best to make sure that you and your Dragon were in the best condition you two could be and you thanked her for her efforts. In fact you thanked Berks chief, Stoic, Hiccups father the most. For it was him who granted you permission to stay and rest for as long as you needed.
It was on one of these resting days did Hiccup find his way back to you to check up on your condition.
Hiccup: Hey, (Y/N)! How are you? How have you been holding up here?
(Y/N): Oh! Hi Hiccup. . I'm fine, great actually. *You say with a hint of sorrow in your voice*
Hiccup: . . you sure? I mean you look a lot better but you don't sound like it. *He seats himself next to you as you both gaze out over Berk*
(Y/N): I mean . . . I don't know. It's just still so different for me I guess.
Hiccup: Different how?
(Y/N): Well . . I don't know! It's like . . and do don't get me wrong when I say this, trust me I am forever grateful for all that you've done for me ane my Dragon but. . . for so long I was being ordered around and surviving all this new found freedom seems so weird to me. I don't know what I'm supposed to do or where to go with it.
Hiccup listened carefully to what you were saying. Looking out at Berk before him he really wasn't sure how to respond. It was only after he saw Toothless and your Dragon happily playing off into the distance did an idea form in his head.
Hiccup: Well if It's orders your missing how's this for a final order. *He stands up, straight and tall as he faces you* I Hiccup, future Chief of Berk give (Y/N) one final command. I command you (Y/N) to live out your life being a dragon rider with me and all of my friends.
Looking at him you just started in disbelief.
(Y/N): Hiccup. . .I . . are you sure?
Hiccup: Of course I am! You said it yourself what else are you supposed to do with all this freedom. Plus it would give you and opportunity to have some better introductions to the rest of my friends and not behind bars this time.
(Y/N) *Think for a moment, the more you did the harder you smiled. You shook your head and eventually stood up to match his level* . . . well I can't really argue with that. I (Y/N), and my Dragon too, promise to be the best dragon rider duo we can be.
Hiccup: As friends? *He offers out his hand*
(Y/N): As friends! *You offer your hand the same*
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Thank you anonymous for this request!!! I hope you enjoy it as much as I did writing it!
