The Dragon Games (HTTYD AU)

Fifteen - Back to Berk

"Five thousand pounds of flaming muscle incoming!" Snotlout yelled as he tried to keep Hookfang flying straight, but ended up barreling towards Astrid.

"Ugh! Can't you stick to formation?" she snapped.

Snotlout crossed his arms defensively. "I don't see you trying to control the most ferocious dragon."

Before Astrid could retort, Hiccup cut in, "That's probably the problem. Don't try to control your dragon. Listen to each other and have trust he'll follow your direction, as you follow his."

Snotlout grumbled something under his breath, but seemed to actually take Hiccup's advice. After a moment, the group were back to flying somewhat harmoniously. They were taking turns sleeping while flying, trying to get at least some rest before the arrival.

Under the cover of darkness, the group was far stealthier. Dragon Games Island was far behind them, with only the sound of wing beats filling the space. The stars twinkled mischievously in the sky.

As they flew, Hiccup grew more and more anxious. They were the first Vikings to ever return early from the Dragon Games, in all twenty five years it had run. If Hiccup didn't play his cards right, he'd be banished.

He glanced at the other riders.

They'd all be banished.

Hiccup looked down at the waves below, beginning to feel guilty that he'd brought them along. He put them at risk so casually.

"Oh no, I don't like that look," Astrid said, quiet enough that only he could hear. "Don't go beating yourself up about any of this. The only person who should feel guilty is Alvin."

Hiccup took in a breath and focused on the horizon. He could just about the Berk. "I suppose you're right."

Astrid chuckled. "Of course I am."

Hiccup watched as her features glowed in the silvery moonlight. A small blush formed on his cheeks and he quickly looked away.

'Everything goes and do not step on another island's soil before the end of this month, or you shall face banishment.'

"Let me handle the talking, gang," Hiccup announced. "Stay on your dragons and don't step foot on Berk."

The group nodded at him, with serious expressions on their faces. Snotlout avoided eye contact. For once, even the twins weren't mocking the situation.

The first traces of the sunrise stretched over the horizon. Before long, the sky was a soft blue.

Berk grew closer and closer. Hiccup could just about make out mountains, and then buildings, and then people. Steeling his nerves, he put on a brave face.

He could do this.

The dragons reached the beach. Hiccup raised his arm and the group stopped, hovering above the waves.

Several Vikings had been walking past. They spotted the group and paled.

One woman took a step back. "Is this... a dragon attack? Why aren't they attacking?"

Hiccup coughed once. "This is not a dragon attack. Bring me Berk's council."

The woman paled. Her eyes flickered from dragon to dragon, noticing the riders. With a shaky nod, she hurried to the village, dragging the other Vikings with her.

Hiccup glanced at the group. They each had determined expressions on their faces, but he knew they were scared. He was too.

Several Vikings ran down from the village.