Dear Mom,
I know you're up there in Valhalla, and I know you've been watching over me, just like you always said you would. And because of that, you probably know about everything that happened over the past three months. But I'm writing this to you now to tell you about it from not just my perspective, but some others in the village. But maybe you want to hear some background to all the emotions and feelings I've had to face recently.
You always used to say that the best and worst experiences of our lives are best shared in the form of stories. Do you remember the times when I was really little—well, littler—and you would sit by the fire with me on your lap, telling me stories? You would tell me the epics of Thor, make me laugh with stories of Loki's exploits. And during the best times, you would tell me stories of your own, about your childhood, about your relationship with Dad. I liked those best of all. Dad, although he wasn't as bad when you were alive, still couldn't really look at me the way most fathers look at their children, you know, with love and pride, so I liked hearing the kinder, softer parts of him that accompanied the stories of your love for each other.
Anyway, that's why I'm going to write this as both a letter and a story. You may wonder how I can remember enough details to write this accurately. The answer is simple: I can remember everything. I don't know how, but I think I have one of those rare photographic memories. I can remember very single piece of dialogue, every bit of my surroundings from my miserable childhood after you died, all the way to—well, if this is going to be a good story, I can't spoil the ending, can I?
So, Mom, sit back and enjoy the ride.
Love,
Hiccup
Author's note: Well, as you can see, this is going to be a novelization of the movie. But I'm also going to add in my own headcanons of some of the events before, between, and after the movie. I'd really like advice on my writing, as this is probably going to be a pretty big project. Could you guys tell me when I need to pick up the pace of the plot, or when I'm rushing too much, and give me other suggestions like that? I'd appreciate it. Anyway, I hope you enjoy! The next chapter will be much longer, and will feature some of my thinking about Hiccup's younger days.