Work Text:
- HTTYD-
IT WAS A calm yet somber day at New Berk; the passing of six months since the dragons departed to the Hidden World had left an indelible mark on the Vikings' lives. Adjusting to this new reality without their once-beloved companions proved to be a trying challenge for everyone, but none felt the loss as deeply as their chief, Hiccup. It was common knowledge that Hiccup had formed an unbreakable bond with Toothless, the night fury and alpha of all dragons. Toothless had been more than just a best friend; he had been Hiccup's first true friend, helping him unlock his hidden potential and shaping him into the person he was today. The dragon's influence had been profound, and now, in his absence, Hiccup felt an overwhelming sense of emptiness and uselessness that he hadn't experienced since his teenage years.
The weight of grief was evident in Hiccup's eyes—a shadow of sadness that he struggled to conceal even from his fiancé, Astrid. Although he tried to put on a brave front, Astrid, who had followed him to the forest, could see right through his facade. She approached him with gentle concern, calling his name softly, hoping to offer him some comfort.
"Hiccup! she called, finding him seated on a large rock near a tranquil waterfall.
"Please, not now. I just need some time alone to think," Hiccup responded, his voice carrying a hint of vulnerability.
But Astrid refused to leave him to suffer in solitude. She joined him on the rock, determined to be there for him no matter what.
"It's about Toothless again, isn't it?" she asked, already knowing the answer.
Hiccup nodded, his emotions threatening to overwhelm him. Astrid placed a comforting hand on his back, reassuring him that he could share his feelings without judgment.
"It's just... it's just that I don't know if I can do this anymore. I feel like I'm incapable of achieving great things or leading our people. Grimmel was right. Without Toothless, I'm nothing. I'm useless, like the screw-up I was before I met him," Hiccup admitted, his voice cracking with sorrow.
"No, Hiccup! Don't say that," Astrid interjected, a fierce determination in her eyes. "You are not useless. You are strong, capable, and a true leader. Toothless may have been instrumental in your journey, but he didn't give you your qualities—those were always within you. You've accomplished incredible feats for our village, built a thriving community, protected us, and led us with courage. That's all you, Hiccup. You've shown your worth time and time again, and you can do it without Toothless by your side."
Hiccup listened, his heart gradually warming to Astrid's words. He realized that she was right—Toothless had merely brought out the potential that had been inside him all along.
"Even without Toothless, you are great. And you are never alone in this. We are here for you, Hiccup. I am here for you," Astrid reassured him, her voice filled with love and support.
Feeling a surge of emotion, Hiccup pulled Astrid close and kissed her forehead, silently expressing his gratitude for her unwavering love and encouragement.
"I love you too, Astrid, and thank you for everything," he said, his voice full of sincerity. "I'm sorry you have to see me like this."
Astrid smiled warmly, her eyes filled with compassion. "You don't have to apologize. We all have our moments of vulnerability. Just know that you're never alone in anything, Hiccup."
Hiccup nodded, a newfound sense of determination settling within him. With Astrid by his side, he felt stronger and capable of facing any challenge that came their way.
"Shall we go back to the village, Milady?" Hiccup asked, a glimmer of hope in his eyes.
"We shall," Astrid replied with a smile, taking his hand in hers.
And so, hand in hand, they returned to the village, ready to face and solve whatever problems arose. With Astrid's unwavering support and his renewed belief in himself, Hiccup knew that he was not alone, and together, they would continue to make a difference in their world.
THE END
-HTTYD-