Chapter Text
Every story has its beginning. Most are simpler than others, but start off just the same. And how they progress will determine the fate that is given to it. For this story, it will not only determine which direction the multiverse goes, but exactly who and what will be affected by it. Not long ago, a trio of rather brave and fearless teenage girls have discovered a music box containing the power to travel through worlds.
Throughout the course of their journey, the girls face many challenges and choices. And have endured the most daring hardships, but in the end, they saved by their world and Amphibia from total destruction, with the help of the mighty Amphibians. Their greatest challenge, was to defeat Amphibia's most ruthless King Andrias, and his master. The Core. A sleepless intelligence with unwonted secrets, along with the secret ability to cheat death.
While their war started on Amphibia, the real battle was fought on the frontiers of Los Angeles. And it would take all three of these girls, as well as their friends and allies to finally put an end to the remorseless king and his master. Using the very gems that would grant them the power to fulfill their destinies.
Fighting together as one, good triumphed over evil, and a friendship was once again restored. And the evil king and his infinite reign finally came to an end. Thus bringing their grand adventure to a close. However, little did the girls themselves know, that while their journey was finally over, their story has merely just begun.
For as they sought out to rebuild their lives, as well as embrace the changes that lay before them, other powers will be at work under their noses. Bringing forth an extraordinary turn of events that not even they would see coming. And it will be through these unfortunate turn of events that will truly test them in ways nobody could ever imagine.
And it will only a matter of time. Before the sun sets and the tides turn, and the world is engulfed in the flames of destiny. And their actions truly determine the fate of all, in this new Age of Dragons.
FBI Base- 500 miles from Los Angeles, Two Months after LA Incident
It was a really quiet afternoon in this dry outpost set up by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Used as an observation center by agent Mr. X, after successfully discovering the unexpected arrival of the Plantars, this was one facility that held so many secrets. Unfortunately, those secrets were all but lost after the previous robot invasion that occurred seven months ago. An invasion that destroyed any sort of evidence that the agent would need to boost his career and possible safeguard mankind's first line of defense against whatever forces may threaten the security of America.
However, there was no need for such a course of action now that the country was secure with the help of Anne and her friends. And considering Mr. X's own role in aiding them in their fight against the aliens, he was already promoted by his boss. Taking a much more exquisite position while also backing up the children so that the agency doesn't take them in for questioning. So in the end, it was a win on both ends. Now his charge is to monitor what ever technology the invaders left behind in his facility for future study. As well as monitoring any other unusual activities that may occur yet again.
An easy task one could say.
Within the confines of his facility, there was a large control room. One of which he used as his personal headquarters. Accompanying him was his most valued assistant, Jenny. Who had been with him from the beginning of the whole charade, and was the most loyal to him. Alongside her was longtime curator at the Museum of Natural History, Dr. Jan, and her newly found apprentice Terri. Whom were both offered positions under his wing as a reward for their efforts to battle the aliens during the invasion. And neither could refuse. To work with the Federal Bureau of Investigation was a great honor for the two scientists.
And it provided them a chance to further work on their studies of cryptids and inter dimensional travel without being laughed at or ignored by the government. Plus, Terri's expertise in inter dimensional activities made her a valuable asset for the government. So there was no refusing her or Jan. Considering how different things were now that the possibilities of other dimensions were out to the public. Something that not even the President of the United States could handle. Though for the last few week since the kids return have been real quiet. Which meant more time for small talk. At least to past the time.
"So, having any plans for the weekend my fellow employees?" Mr. X asked, with a little charisma in the tone of his voice.
"Ah, not much," Dr. Jan answered bluntly. "Tomorrow's field trip day at the museum and I have to be there extra early to get the exhibits ready for display."
"I've gotta few errands to run for this weekend," Terri added. "Then I'm probably gonna be at home experimenting some more."
"Hmm," Mr X grunted. Expecting something exciting and feeling somewhat disappointed. "What about you Jenny?"
"I have to deal with my husband," she answered. "Gotta give him as much attention as possible or he'll lose it."
"You're married?" Terri asked, out of curiosity.
"Yeah, and let me tell you, it's not easy," Jenny explained. "Have to constantly hear him complaining about work and how our kids are lazy and ungrateful."
"That's awful," Dr. Jan commented.
"I know, but I still love him."
"Well for one I would never let my husband talk to me with that kind of attitude," said Dr. Jan. "In my household, we treat our family with respect."
"Well then, is it okay if we traded places?" Jenny asked sarcastically.
The three girls and Mr X chuckled in Jenny's sarcastic her sense of humor very amusing. By the time they all settled, Mr X decided it was time to call it a day. Taking a coat that was hanging near the door but glancing back at his co-workers before departure.
"Well, I hope you all enjoy your long weekends," said Mr X. "You've all done a great job these past few weeks."
"Thanks boss," Terri asked. "Much appreciated."
"Please, call me X," Mr X shot back respectfully. "I call my boss that."
Terri gave a heartwarming smile in return. And to think that a few months ago this guy would be the very person she would try to avoid. Now she's working right underneath him. Who would've thought of that. By then the three women waved a goodbye to their boss before watching him head home. However, before he could even turn the door nob that lead out of the room, there was a large beeping sound that went off on the big screen. Acting quickly, Terri accessed the computer connected to the screen to see what was setting the alarm off.
Once she accessed the main frame and went to the file consisting of several cameras, her eyes widened upon seeing what the issue is. The fbi agent noticed how fairly alarmed his co-worker was and rushed to her side to find out what the situation was.
"What is it Terri?" Mr X asked.
"Well, I don't wanna say its really bad but...," Terri paused. "...it's pretty bad. We just lost two of our inter-dimensional motion sensors."
Everyone in the room let out a gasp upon hearing such news.
"That can't be good," Dr. Jan commented.
"And what's worse is that the motion sensors we've place before are going off on a major scale," Terri explained further. "Something big is coming to Earth. And its coming fast."
Now this could be a problem. Its been three months since the incident where aliens from another dimension tried to take over the world. Many lives were lost that day, and the last thing they need is another repeat of that day.
"Is it the same invaders from Amphibia?" he questioned.
"Hard do say, but after what Anne had told me, the device they used to get back to Earth was destroyed," Terri answered thoroughly. "So it has to be something else."
Just hearing her explain all that sent a shiver down the fbi agent's spine. It would've been much easier if it was the Amphibians, but now they have an entirely potential new enemy to deal with. Now coming from a guy whom has dealt with extraterrestrials before, it shouldn't be that hard to catch whoever is coming to Earth. But at the same time he did not wish to start a panic, even after what happened in Los Angeles.
"How long do we have?" he asked further.
The blue haired scientist did not answer right away, considering that predicting such an outcome would be extremely hard. Even for one as bright-minded as her.
"Well, that's just it," she said. "The time of the arrival, along with the exact locations from which the arrival would take place is uncertain. So it can happen at any time. But I think I can hypothesis that the arrival can be expected as soon as next week."
Well that was a relief. Even though they would have a few days, that was still enough time for them to mobilize.
"Good, I'll get word to my boss," Mr X stated. "He should be able to get this to the President."
"Okay, but what happens if he doesn't?" asked Dr. Jan.
Mr X gave a long pause. Resorting to staring at the screen instead. He then pondered of the endless possibilities that may happen in the future to come. Whoever these invaders were, whoever these people who would seek to come to Earth for good or evil purposes, he hoped that they could be dealt with without causing a major disaster as the ones they have endured with their last invaders. For the sake of not just the United States, but for all of mankind as well.
"Then God help us all."
Elsewhere, Another Dimension
The sky grew long as the sun hits its highest point. The ocean waves glimmered through the light, and a herd of dolphins were spotted jumping in and out of the water. The air was calm and filled with a light breeze. Flocks of seagulls and pelicans flew in many splintered groups. Traveling south on their usual migration routes. Taking in the view of the vast seas as they continued peacefully towards the horizon.
And from the horizon's edge, a large sea stack formation rested in the middle of the endless ocean. The vertical rock columns were spread out in different directions. Making a perfect resting spot for any passing bird looking for a place to rest. And underneath these steep forms of land, a massive coral reef laid just underneath the water's surface. Ornamented with colors ranging from blue, purple, red, and even golden brown. Coming from all shapes and sizes with enough vegetation that expands for miles. Within this infinite, yet majestic ecosystem, large schools of fish swam harmoniously within the confines of the reef itself.
They went by the thousands. Traveling aimlessly without any real sense of direction. Feasting on whatever plankton or invertebrates they can catch with their mouths. With many species and breeds coexisting with one another. Ranging as far as salmon, tuna, brown trout, sea bass, Atlantic cod, mackerel, sturgeon, and ice-tailed pike. There were also smaller fish like minnows and perch, but they traveled in smaller groups. And were more distant from the rest of the other fish.
But even so, they were still able to call this large ecosystem their home. Mainly because there were no real natural predators whom would venture to this area. Not yet, anyway. And the reef was so large that they didn't even bother checking for any carnivores. However, that would turn out to be very short lived. For as the many shoals of salmon and trout continued to swim along without a single care in the world, they did not seem to notice, that they were all being watched.
For above the surface of the water, a slender black silhouette watched over the reef from on top of the nearest sea stack. Observing the shoal's movements with extreme caution. Its hide was covered with black charcoal scales that covered his body from the tip of his tail to the top of his head. His wings extended far out for at least 20 feet. Which were now closed tight and folded from each sides of its body. Under those wings were another set of smaller flaps that open and close when gliding.
And at the end of its tail, stood to fins, one grown natural, and the other prosthetic. From its back, is a set of spines that run down from its head and tail. Under it were a set of four legs, all laid low to the ground, touching the earth's surface with extremely light weight. And on the back of its head, four ear-like antennas lay back. Listening to even the smallest sound that comes across it. And in the front of its face, two emerald eyes with black slits in the middle rested on the sight of the fish bellow and watched carefully.
Normally people would mistaken this unique creature for a winged cat or an overgrown lizard. But truthfully, it was neither. And around these parts of the world, creatures like this would be described with one name. A name that would strike terror into the hearts of even the bravest of humans.
Dragons
A race of reptilian beasts of unwonted destruction. Once feared and respected throughout the entire world. Known for their tenacious tempers and abilities to set entire settlements on fire. though circumstances would have these majestic creatures fleeing back to their ancestral home of the Hidden World, leaving no trace for anyone to remember them by. Rendering them as nothing more than a bunch of folktales.
Not much was known about dragonkind. But of all the many different species of dragons that have come into existence, this one in particular, had a reputation that would far exceed that of the average dragon. The stories that were told about this magnificent beast would be told from generations. The people who spoke of them named the creature as the legendary, Night Fury.
The rarest of the dragon species and probably the last of its kind. Who was originally known for bringing fear throughout the night sky. In the first instance, the dragon had no other name. He was only called by the name that his human partner gave him when he was a young adult. And yet, the humans that he once lived with for almost nine years called him by one name. "Toothless." For he would sometimes appear to have no teeth when smiling.
Though despite the name, his demeanor and ferocity is far greater. Through the stories, it was said that he battled a huge dragon that was dubbed the alpha in single combat and defeated it. And with it, the last domain of his ancestors occupied with dragons was his by right. And from that day forward, he was proclaimed King of the Hidden World and ruler to all dragons in its domain. Though with that honor, it came with huge responsibilities. One of which he had to fulfill if he was to ensure the survival of his race. And today, he has a problem.
Apparently the dragons haven't been receiving any food for months. And with the disappearance of fish that probably started from the borders of the hidden world, there was almost no hope for the dragons to survive without food. So, he searched through the seas in hopes of finding more fish closest to home with extreme haste, knowing that his kind mainly relied on fish as a primary food source. Using his acute senses, he picked the trail of fresh salmon that led him to this reef. Which was further to the east just off the borders of the Archipelago. Well out of range of viking territory.
And as luck would have it, fate had presented Toothless with a mighty gift. All of the fish his kind could ever eat. Though before he could celebrate, he was challenged with finding a way to get a these different amounts of fish back to the hidden world. For this task would require the strength of numbers and a full-proof plan. Thankfully for the King of Dragons, years worth of being around his best viking friend has taught him a few things about strategy. And being a dragon of extremely high intelligence, he was able to come up with both.
Those who accompanied him had their own parts to play. And his involved the Night Fury currently watching over the schools just north of the reef. Though as his eyes continued to remained focused on the herd bellow, his left ear antenna twitched, indicating that someone was right behind him. When he turned his head back, his left eye was met with the sight of two other dragons.
The first dragon took a bipedal appearance. Almost bird-like. Possessing mottled, dark shaded wings with forelimbs, and expanded to at least 53 feet in the air. It had small yet keen eyes that equipped with poor binocular vision. In the front of those eyes is its curved nasal horn, which is often used as a defense mechanism; its lower jaw is shorter and wider than its upper, giving the dragon a large overbite. The color of the dragon's body consisted of mainly blue. With shades of yellow, purpler, and red spots covering a majority of its head and its skull was a crown of spikes. Coating the tail is a series of poisonous spines which can be fired at an opponent with deadly accuracy. Humans used to call it the Deadly Nadder. Known for being the quickest and lightest dragon of its species. Equipped the the hottest fire in the known world.
And behind it was a dragon that took more of a resemblance of a bat. Possessing a long, snakelike neck and tail, with claw-tipped wings on the edges of its sprawled wings. On the top of its head stood a pair of large shiny grayish-black horns that curve slightly outwards on the edge. Covering the dragon's hide were bright reddish-orange scales with darker spots scattered around. Its underside is a light tan, and he has yellowish-orange eyes that were too used for binocular vision. The dragon was dubbed as the Monstrous Nightmare. Being well known for its unique ability to set its entire body on fire if cornered.
There were four others, consisting of a Gronckle, Hideous Zippleback, Razorwhip, and Thunderdrum. All of which had their own unique features and skills. And were considered to be extremely powerful and dangerous in their own ways. But were also considered to be extremely loyal to their king. Few of which the Night Fury trusted with his life and would count on them for anything. However, they were currently nowhere to be seen or heard of at the moment. But for good reason. Upon noticing the alpha gleaming at them the two dragons jumped back. Being startled by the insuring silence, but then collected themselves after remembering why they were there.
'We're in position, Toothless,' The Nadder chirped.
'Good work," the Night Fury acknowledged. 'It's almost high tide.'
He then turned back to the the roaming fish and continued to watch. The two other dragons taking positions one either sides of the King of Dragons before setting their eyes on the shoals as well.
'We should attack now," the Nightmare snarled. 'Give them everything we have!'
'Not yet, Hookfang,'Toothless refuted, referring to the name Nightmare. 'We have to wait for Thornado to let us know he's ready first.'
'Well can he hurry up already?!' Hookfang whined. 'I've been dying for some action!'
'You've been saying that since we left home,' the Nadder argued. 'Can't you hold it together for a little while longer?'
'Hey, you try to keep your inner warrior in and see how it feels, Stormfly,' the nightmare shot back.
'Quiet!' Toothless barked. 'Both of you! I need to be focused!'
'Tell that to this overgrown firepit!" Stormfly chattered. 'He's obviously the one being all riled up!'
Hearing that made Hookfang almost set his whole hide ablaze from aggression, when Toothless stopped him with his left wing. Bringing him back down to the ground before bringing his attention back to the ongoing scene.
'You see that right there?' The Night Fury questioned.
Hookfang wanted to reply but was too focused on seeing what was going on at the edge of the reef. From what he and his fellow dragons observed, they saw a huge blue dragon flying up to the air on the other side of the fields. As they observed, the large dragon, who was presumed to be Thornado, was circling near the edge of the reef well out of range of the fishes' prying eyes. From underwater, he shot a small sonic blast up into the sky. High enough for the fish to not even notice before flying back down to the ground. Indicating that he was ready.
'Alright, that's our cue,' Toothless warbled. 'Stormfly, you join up with Windshear on the left flank. Try to keep any stranglers from leaving the pods. With any luck, Meatlug, Bard and Belch will be doing the same on the other side.'
'On it,' Stormfly cawed before heading to the sea stack on the farthest left side of the reef. Where another dragon was waiting for her.
As soon as the Nadder was out of sight, Toothless turned his attention to the dragon on his other side.
'Hookfang, you're with me,' he yelped. 'We'll drive them out into the open sea and lead them towards home. With any luck, we'll be over with this quickly and be back before we even know it.'
"Finally some action," Hookfang grinned.
By then the Night Fury turned back towards the shoal. With dog-like smell, he sniffed through the clean air. Giving into the fresh smell of food. Food that could prove well for him and his subjects. Perfect. Now all he and his comrades had to do was stick to the plan. And with Thor's guidance, they'll go to sleep tonight with full bellies.
'Let's go,' he growled.
As quiet as a mouse, and as fast as an eagle, he and his Nightmare companion flew from one sea stack to another. Closing the gap between them and the fish bellow. Since fish are very sensitive to sound, it was imperative that they moved quietly. Even the faintest sound could set the entire shoal off. And they needed to time this just right. From the edge of the sea stack that they just landed on, Toothless used his binocular vision to survey the area one last time before putting his plan into motion. From what he observed, he saw Stormfly and Windshear perched on top of a sea stack to the south. And Meatlug, and Barf and Belch on another sea stack on Toothless's right side just as he ordered. Looking back to the east, he could see the far edge of the reef where Thornado was getting ready to do his part of the plan.
As he began to process the areas surrounding them and the shoals, he was able to process the last of his plan. So far there were only two main exits that lead out of the reef. Both of which lead straight into the open ocean. The one that Thornado was blocking was the one to the east. And for good reason. The silence of the area was more oppressive as the divine winds blew calmly through the day. The ocean waters were calm and not making to much noise. Which was perfect for an ambush.
'Now, Toothless?' Hookfang questioned out of anticipation.
Though before he could answer, Toothless raised his wing in front of the Nightmare's face. Urging his fierce compadre to give it a few more seconds. After taking one last look at his surroundings, and conforming everyone's current positions, he turned back to his fiery friend and gave him a nod. Granting him permission to do what he does best. And with a smirk, Hookfang did exactly that. With five thousand pounds of raw dragon muscle, the Monstrous Nightmare sets himself aflame before hovering over the sea stack. And at amiss, he unleashed a roar that shook the very foundation of the island itself, before sending a stream of fire straight into the water.
Instantly setting off the shoals of fish and causing them to swim towards the exit on the east side. Though predictably, the Night Fury could see that it wasn't such a good idea when an echoing roar was heard in that direction. Next thing they knew, the fish made a direct beeline straight for the exit on the other side of the reef. By the time they reached for the open sea, the three dragon teams broke from their positions and intercepted the fleeing fish.
Toothless took the lead first. Picking up the pace with Hookfang right behind him as he watched the fish swim across the vast oceans. He flapped his wings hard, making every wing beat count for this mission. And for each flap, meant a good chance of gaining more ground. And with his automatic tail fin, he can cover a distance that is far greater than that of the cheetah itself. As he continued his to fly across the middle of the shoal, the other dragons split into two groups. Moving to the opposite sides of the shoal in a synchronized fashion. The Night Fury looked underneath him and saw Thornado continuously pushing the schools with his sonic blasts.
When he turned back he noticed some of the fish trying to break off from the group. Attempting to flee from the opposite sides of the ocean. While others tried escaping by jumping out of the water. But before they could succeed, that was when they made their move. With extreme precision, Toothless called to the other dragons before turning back towards the water. Then he lowered himself to merely inches away from the water's edge before initiating the next phase of his plan.
He hissed at the fish attempting to jump out of the water. Driving them back to the sea and with their fellow fish friends. Then he moves alongside the shoal. Continuously hissing at the fish in each and every corner. Then he pushed deeper through the ranks of the group even more while snarling and baring his teeth at them. All in content of keeping them in the water as the dragons continue their drive. Hookfang did the same, only this time directly firing at the water to give the fish more of a reason not to attempt to jump out again.
On the other ends of the shoals, the other dragons followed suit. With Stormfly and Windshear covering the left side and Meatlug and Bard and Belch covering the right. Going as far as firing lava blasts, shooting out venomous spine shots and setting off gaseous flames to make sure no stranglers broke from the group. And none of the fish could swim downward due to the sudden appearance of a group of Seashocker dragons. Whose electrical currents kept the fish from swimming to the bottom of the ocean.
As they continued west, the dragons chased and hurried their prey on a massive scale. Causing a lot of panic and introducing mayhem among their ranks. Instilling fear in the small hearts of the fish, which was keen for this mission. Fear will most likely benefit the dragons in the long run. And Toothless will need to exploit it if this was gonna be successful. Though to the Night Fury's luck this genuinely seemed like the case. For beyond the horizon his eagle eyes came across a massive caldera. Which was the direct entrance to the Hidden World. And was only half a mile away from where they were currently at.
'We're almost home guys!" he barked to the others. 'Keep pushing!"
And with that, the dragons doubled their efforts. With the King of Dragons himself now resorting to firing plasma blasts amongst the ranks of the shoal. Getting the fish to pick up the pace as they swam their way to certain doom. It did not take long for the other dragons to do the same. Discharging twice as many blasts and streams of flame then they did the moment the mission started.
And it was here that the fish started to realize exactly what they were walking into. But it was too late for them to do anything at this point. For at this point they were already approaching the caldera. And from that point on the dragons ceased fire. Pulling back from the water's edge and hovering just above the great waterfall.
Then like a makeshift waterfall, the large shoals of fish fell straight into the caldera. Delivering mountains of food for Toothless's subjects in the Hidden World. Which will last for an entire decade if he was not mistaken. Satisfied with the success of the mission, Toothless turns back to the other dragons and lets out a roar.
'Good work everyone,' he congratulated. 'You all did well today.'
The dragons in return called back to the Night Fury in appreciation of their efforts. Along with thanking their leader such his most gracious complements. As they began to slowly wrap up the mission, Toothless took a good view of the Hidden World. Reminiscing his most recent accomplishments as King of the Hidden World. It's been a while since he had to leave his human friend Hiccup behind. Two years to be exact. And already so much has passed since then. He had built a new life for his friends and subjects. A life of peace and plenty. Sure it was not easy, and it definitely took some time to adjust. But he pulled it off all the same. From battling dragon killers, fighting diseases, even giving various dragons their own places in the Hidden World to call home.
Though his thoughts were suddenly interrupted when a certain Deadly Nadder called to him.
'Toothless, look out!' Stormfly roared.
Upon hearing his friend, the Night Fury turned his head to see a boulder coming straight his way. Instinctively the black dragon rolled midair and dodged the boulder before it could even touch a single scale. When he rebounded Hookfang was the first to respond as to where the boulder came from.
'It's coming from the east!' the Monstrous Nightmare howled.
He watched as his fellow dragon motions his right wing to an object just outside of the Toothless took a closer look, he saw that there was a band of small human ships that were sailing at the edge of the Hidden World. Coming from the direction from where they just herded the schools of fish. And from the looks of things, there were about twelve of them. They were spread out and in a tight formation. At first Toothless was taken aback by the presence of humans near the borders of the Hidden World.
For it has been a long time since humans have ever tried to journey to the Hidden World. Especially since no humans know about its location. And those that have are long dead. Hence why no humans ever come near it. So there had to be an explanation as to why there are humans so close to their ancestral home. And let alone, what business they would have being out here. Where there is no land from miles around. Unless they turned back of course.
Initially the Night Fury mistook them as trade ships, probably dumping boulders into the ocean. But from what he could tell, some of these ships were a bit familiar. As he took a closer look, the Night Fury saw that the sails on the ships adorned a large red crest in the shape of a fist. And there was only one tribe of humans that he knew by heart that adorned that symbol.
Dragon Hunters.
A viking tribe whom they've been enemies with for as long as the King of Dragons could remember. And have hunted and killed more dragons than anyone in the Barbaric Archipelago. And the fact that they have somehow found out about the Hidden World suggests that they wish to continue capturing and enslaving of his entire species.
Which angered Toothless to the bone. So many dragons have suffered at the hands of these barbarians. So much innocent blood spilled. And for what? So that these humans can pleasure themselves by killing his kind for sport? And since they could not live without their eternal desires to kill his people, now they seek to find and destroy his entire kingdom?
No! This was something that he could not allow. Not while he still held breathe. Their voyage ends today.
As Toothless surveyed the fleet from a distance, he spotted a man armed with a bow and arrow staring right at him. From what he was wearing, the Night Fury assumed that he was their leader. For he his armor adorned a red color, and his helmet was more in the shape of a viking. With two dragon horns on both ends. And from the facial expression that was shown, he did not look happy. No, in fact, it seemed that his intentions were to eradicate everything that he laid his eyes upon. Even the caldera itself.
But Toothless will not allow that to happen. By any means necessary. And if taking him and his troops out will ensure the survival of his species, as well as saving his home, then so be it. He quickly calls to the other dragons. Rallying them all to his side just above the caldera.
'Stormfly, Hookfang, Windshear, you're with me!' he barks. 'Barf, Belch, Meatlug and Thornado, take out the ships on both flanks. We'll take them out at the center.'
"On it!" Barf and Belch warbled.
'Yes boss,' Meatlug followed up.
'This is gonna be fun!' Hookfang added.
As the sun began to set on the horizon, Toothless started off with a slow approach by descending from the skies. With Stormfly, Hookfang and Windshear not far from him. They slowly flew ahead of the small ships, and pretended that they were just lone dragons wandering in the area. It usually works for some human travelers. Who rarely see them as a threat to their cargo.
But for these guys, their reactions were quite different from what he anticipated. Instead of passing by, they retaliated by loading catapults and arming themselves with long range weapons. Though the Alpha dragon was unfazed by their reactions. Seeing how dragon hunters always shoot first and ask questions later. A very predicable response. As the hunters continued to gear up, readying for battle, Toothless suddenly give out a roar. And as quick as a lightning bolt, the four dragons made their move. The Night Fury strikes first, firing a plasma blast at the nearest ballista before the hunter arming it could fire.
The enemy retaliates by sending a volley of arrows at the sky. In which the dragons dodge with extreme precision. For they knew that the hunters coaxed their arrows with dragon root. And would have deadly consequences should one of them be hit by one. Once the volley was over, Stormfly flings her tail and spikes hit the decks of the nearest ship. Scattering the men on deck. The four of them split up shortly after that. Taking on each ship as the enemy hunters press their attack. They fired catapults that almost cut Toothless down to size, but he was luckily able to avoid them at the right moment..
Using the sky as a vantage point, the Night Fury turns back and delivers a dive bomb attack that drills a massive hole in the hull of the hunters' ship. Causing it to be disabled and sink to the bottom of the ocean. With its crew still aboard it. Which enrages the lead hunter. He then shouted and barked orders at his men. Doubling their efforts to take the dragons down whatever it takes. And since then, the tide slowly started to shift in their favor. Or at least is slowly started to.
And Toothless started to notice this when the dragons that he split off were getting into some serious trouble. Hookfang was the first to be shot down and was cornered by several dragon hunters. Ready to be netted and caged in the lower decks. But before that could happen, Stormfly landed on the deck and started slashing her tail at the men. Pushing them back before helping the Monstrous Nightmare back on his feet and take to the skies.
'I owe you one,' the nightmare warbled cockily.
'Don't mention it Fire Pit,' Stormfly huffed.
By then the two dragons about and continued their assault. One the other side Meatlug and Thornado were busy taking down the lower hulls of the ships on the right flanks. Meatlug had almost been dragged on deck by the hunters' grappling hooks but was narrowly rescued by Barf and Belch. With the Hideous Zippleback setting an explosion so big that it literally rattles the sky. Along with that, the hunters and the farthest ship attempted to bring Winshear down using a launcher.
But the sleek Razorwhip dodges the attack and returns fire with a blue fireball. Blowing a hole into the mast of the ship and watching it tumble across the deck. She then follows that up by skimming her tail across the wood of the ship. And began to watch it break apart like a cardboard box before seeing the ship sink to the depths.
Of course that would be enough to take out two ships, which leaves eight more to go. Bringing much satisfaction to the Night Fury as he continued his aerial attack on the lead ship. But before he could even enact it, Toothless saw a boulder coming straight at him. He tried to dodge it, but it was too late. The boulder hits him directly at the face. Knocking him senseless as he starts to fall to the earth. He lands on the main ship and the men boarding it proceed to tie him up.
The lead dragon hunter gets a good look at him with a sadistic smile. Then he tells his men to put the Night Fury in a cage where he belongs. Once inside the cage, the leader unsheathed a mighty sword and raised it high. Intending to take the Night Fury's life right then and there.
"This is the day we get rid of your filth, once and for all," he said.
But before the hunters could do so, a magnesium blast combined with a stream of kerosene gel were shot and hits two of the dragon killers that were tying up the King of Dragons. As Toothless starts to regain his senses, the first thing that he saw was Stormfly and Hookfang landing on the deck and attacking the other hunters. Firing streams of flames in a circle formation. Acting as a barrier while Windshear cuts the sails with her sharp tail. The lead hunter hid behind his fellow hunters to prevent himself from getting burned to a crisp as more and more hunters came out from the lower deck.
On the ship, the Deadly Nadder and Monstrous Nightmare engaged some of the crew members that breached the barrier and swept them across the deck. With Stormfly ramming one hunter with her huge head, and Hookfang grabbing another hunter by his jaws before tossing him around like a rag doll and throwing him over board. But by the time he could turn to his Nadder partner to brag about it, she spots a man charging straight at him from behind. Though before anything could be done, Toothless fires a plasma blast from inside the cage. Hitting the guy straight in the face before Hookfang could be given a chance to react.
Shortly after that though, the Monstrous Nightmare gleefully shoves the hunter into the ocean to join his fellow comrades at the bottom of the sea. Once the deck was clear, both dragons helped their alpha out of the cage that he was unfortunately put in. To which Toothless returned by thanking them for the assistance.
'Thanks for having my back guys,' Toothless croons. 'That was too close.'
Though they seemed grateful, the Night Fury noticed Stormfly shooting a look at him. A look that screams 'You almost got yourself killed again'. To which Toothless looked down in guilt. Knowing one of his closest friends was right. But despite the situation, the Deadly Nadder relented. Taking into consideration that Toothless was the Alpha after all.
'Hey, your safe,' Stormfly implies. 'That's all that matters.'
And it was here that Toothless looked back up and smiled. Stormfly has always been a good friend to him. Even during his time with Hiccup.
'Okay, if you two are gonna have one of these cringy touching moments, then I think I'm gonna hurl,' Hookfang warbled with disgust.
Upon hearing that Stormfly smacks Hookfang across the face with her tail. The Monstrous Nightmare growls in response to it but neglects to take any sort of action. Giving Stormfly the opportunity to scold him.
'Shut up Hookfang!' Stormfly growled. 'You're so annoying!'
'What?!" Hookfang retaliates. 'I'm just being honest!'
It didn't take them long to start bickering again. To which made Toothless chuckle. These two always had a habit of going at each other's throats. Something that the King of Dragons himself was use to by now. But before they could go any further, the took the precaution of breaking it up.
'Alright guys,' Toothless barked. 'Let's round this up so we can go back home.'
By then the three dragons turned towards the edge of the ship and prepared to take off. When a familiar voice stopped them before doing so.
"Where to you think you're going?!"
Upon hearing it the dragons turned around to stand face to face with the lead hunter. Who was armed with a crossbow, pointed directly at the Night Fury. Yet before he could pull the trigger, he was quickly disarmed by a spike from Stormfly. Though despite being unarmed, the dragon hunter didn't seem to be done with them.
"You think this is over?!" the hunter claims. "No! This is far from over! You are vermin! Pests that need to be destroyed! You may defeat me and my men today, but we will never stop. Never rest. We will hunt you down until every single one of your kind is-"
Before the man could finish his sentence, Toothless fires a plasma blast straight to the face and knocks him out cold. Having heard enough of the human's annoying rant. After that, he turned back to the other two dragons. Motioning his head towards the unconscious hunter. By then Stormfly and Hookfang looked at each other before going straight to work. With the Monstrous Nightmare opening up the cage from whence Toothless was in about ten seconds ago and the Nadder tossing the lead dragon hunter inside it. With the leader subdued the Night Fury could safely say that the battle was theirs.
For as he looked to the other ships he saw that the other dragons were making quick work with them. Sending a majority of them to the bottom of the ocean with only two other ships falling back. Sailing back east and away from the Hidden World.
'That takes care of that,' Toothless grunts. 'Let's go home.'
With the viking forces defeated, the dragons began to clear out from the sinking ships and take to the skies. But just before they could even make for a caldera, Toothless makes a U-turn and flies back towards the dragon hunter's ship. And as punishment for crossing their borders with ill intent, the Night Fury barrel rolls and fires multiple plasma blasts right into the ship hull. Sinking it and leaving the hunters stranded in the ocean. Including the lead hunter himself, who was still trapped in the cage.
"Damn you!" the hunter yelled. "Damn you all to the ends of the Earth!"
Toothless snickered a bit before joining the others. On the trip Toothless reflected on the events that have unfolded today. From redirecting fish into the Hidden World, to taking on a full scale invasion, so much has already happened. Though the more that he reflected, the more he thought about the dragon hunter leader. The disgust and anger that he saw in his eyes and the relentless ambition that carried with him pondered at the Night Fury's thoughts.
And it did him no better when he thought of the dragon killer's remarks about the Alpha dragon and his race as a whole. The grudge that the human still carried towards him and his kind, even after they disappeared. It angered the Night Fury knowing that humans still carried their immense hatred for him. But it also disappointed him too. What happened to the human race? Why are they always like this? So vile and hateful lashing out at everything and everyone. There use to be beauty within humanity. A beauty that was filled with honor and respect.
But now they seemed to put creatures like dragons down more than ever. Going so low as to going to the edge of the world, risking their lives so that they could annihilate his own. And it's gone too far now. Like as if dragons are now the enemy and not themselves. This was not the human race. It couldn't be. Because if it was, then they now have no honor. That now they accept dragons as thieves and murderers when they also know that there is more to them than they think.
Then again, that was the very reason why they left the human world to hide in their own. Since a majority of humans are incapable of compassion and friendship, and resort to acts of violence, even on each other. And it was more pitiful knowing that many have not changed since then. That they are not willing to accept such changes that they will destroy everything in their path so that nothing does change.
However, despite the fact that humans were so incapable of change, it heartened Toothless knowing that there are some humans that are capable of changing. Who are wiling to do more for the people around them, regardless to what anyone says about them. But even then the Night Fury was aware that good humans are hard to come by. Because even when there are good humans out there, they are always ousted by the bad ones. Either made as outcasts left to fend for themselves, or a hunted and slaughtered like animals just for committing a good act.
At that moment, Toothless thought about his time with his human partner Hiccup. How he would do anything to defend his kind, and would see what a dragon truly is. He really missed him. Missed him ever since the day he left him for the Hidden World. And sure, he has his mate by his side so that he would never be alone, but it wasn't enough. He was about the only human friend that he ever had in his entire life. And now he's gone.
And made him more sad that he may never meet another human like Hiccup ever again. Nor would he ever meet another human that is as compassionate, caring, and selfless as he was. Who would do anything and risk everything, not for themselves, but for those around them. Including him.
Upon approaching the Hidden World, the Night Fury began to wonder if there were any other humans out there that are as compassionate, caring, and selfless as Hiccup. That he would one day find another human that would accept him and his kind for who they were. Not as the world saw them as. And perhaps determine if humanity is capable of changing their ways. Along with finding out if there was any hope that both species can once again coexist with one another. So that he and his kind can return to the world in peace, as Hiccup once said.