Racers of the Night

by Smoe05

[Dragon Racing Modern AU] Dragons coincide with the people of Berk. They live in the vast wilds awaiting study, they are trained to help with laborious construction and are rode upon in the legendary Dragon Races. When Hiccup Haddock discovers a breed thought to be a myth, it sparks a revolution of change that shifts the course of the city forever. [Movie pairings]

10. 10 Annual Finals

Annual Finals

'Okay there bud, we're gonna take this nice and slow,' he reached down to pat Toothless' neck in reassurance. 'Here we go, oh here we go. Position f… three, no four.'

The rolling winds pushed them around but it was no trouble to their new found stability. It had taken time and many failed attempts but Hiccup managed to refine his design to an effective and strong model. Thanks to Cami's little excursion to classroom R02, he now owned all the pieces to the puzzle of Toothless' tail fin apparatus. From the tail fin itself, two cable lines ran along either side of Toothless' dorsal fins to the metal loops around his front legs. With some extra tweaking and reinforcement, Hiccup now had rudder control of the tail fin thanks to the conversion of his stirrups to pedal levers. Time was pressed close with the next event tomorrow resulting in a hasty yet rigorous diagnostic control map for the test drive today. Thus, Hiccup had yet to memorise the positional charts he had developed.

With his left foot, he levelled out the angle causing the fin to angle for a left-hand bank. Toothless checked back under his leg for the angle himself before concentrating on staying afloat. He angled for a wide arc that glided them smoothly through the air and back towards the cliff edge. He pumped his wings further catching the side drafts rocking their movement all the while Hiccup watched back making sure all was in working order. The fin flapped about a little as he worked to stabilise it and furthermore them.

'Alright, it's go time, it's go time,' he muttered to himself before leaning forward urging Toothless into a dive towards the sea.

Toothless folded his wings slightly and let the currents build his velocity as they slipped to lower altitudes. 'Come on buddy, come on buddy!' He cheered.

The racing of his heart thundering in his, the cold snap of summer air blasting against his face, it was incredible. Toothless flapped his wings out catching the path along the sea, his left wing skirting the surface spraying a thick line behind them. Hiccup could feel the slight spray of moisture in the air as they rocketed towards an arching rock formation. He watched the sea to find it a blur of blue turquois and white as the passed underneath the archway. Several birds were cruising in their own gentle speeds above them as the shot out the other side.

The tense feeling and breath he was holding was released in relief of their achievement. 'Yes! It worked.'

Toothless continued pumping his wings in a steady motion raising their altitude a little as some smaller rock forms appeared ahead. The jump of nerves ran through Hiccup as he momentarily forgot to pedal the fin, instead pulling on the grips as Toothless worked to slow their speed.

He caught the rock with his feet springing off with disgruntled grunt. 'Sorry,' Hiccup acknowledged before they found themselves in the path of another rock.

Once more Toothless crashed into it working his wings hard to keep their balance. 'That's my fault,' Hiccup called afterwards having lost some focus on what they were doing.

His mind was running at a million miles, the sheer excitement at the fact his design was working in proper flying conditions. If only, the others could see where his ideas had led, they would be equally dumbstruck.

He was literally smacked out of his thoughts by Toothless' ear flap returning to the present moment. 'Yeah, yeah I'm on it!' He scoffed before checking his chart. 'Position four ahh, three.'

He reached down to his right and checked the cable was still holding strong to the pedal before clicking he tail for a skyward position. Toothless felt the drag and soon angled his course for shear vertical flight.

'Yeah! Go baby! Yeehehes!' Hiccup cried out as they drove a hard line into the sky.

Toothless powered forth, his wings belting against the winds and tongue protruding like a dog hungrily chasing a ball. 'Oh this is amazing! The wind in my… Cheat Sheet! STOP!' The small piece of paper unlatched from its clip flying into his face and with a desperate attempt of flailing arms he caught a corner with the tip of his fingers.

Obedient to the command, Toothless halted their flight allowing the last of their momentum to be slowed by gravity. Only disaster was to follow as Hiccup's clips slid forward out of the saddle hooks and with that, so did he. The weightlessness of the air was met with only the shear panic and surprise in their eyes as each realised their devastating predicament. Toothless' pupils thinned and a horrified cry echoed from within as gravity pulled them back towards the sea.

'NOOOO!' Hiccup cried out feeling the wash of cold terror tear through him.

He was on his back whereas Toothless was flailing around twisting and turning as he tried to right himself in the air to no avail. 'Oh Gosh! Oh Gods! Oh No!'

Hiccup flipped over and extended his hands reaching out for Toothless' wing but the force only knocked him into another tumble through the air. He managed to find balance again on his front as Toothless caught up to him still spinning out of control.

'Ok you gotta... kinda, angle yourself!' He tried to explain. 'Ok nonono. Come back down towards me, come back down towa… OW!' The dragon's tail whipped around and wacked him in the face.

Though the impact was met only with intensified pain, it was just the thing he needed. Toothless flexed his wings out managing to slow his tumbles enough for Hiccup to loop around and with an outstretched hand, latch onto the saddle grip. He hauled himself into the pedals holding the chart in his mouth and locked his clips into place. With an audible click, he angled the tail fin righting themselves in the air and with all his strength he heaved back on the grips. A forest spur came into view and like lightning, Toothless snapped his wings open leaving a wispy trail along the out tips. The tunnel of the Preliminary sprint couldn't compare to the shear adrenaline rush of them plummeting towards the foggy depths of the bay.

The rocks appeared through the mist and they bore no friendly shape all clustered together with twisting loops and eroded marks. Hiccup snatched the chart from his mouth darting his eyes between direction and impending doom; there was no hope relying on method, only instinct was left. It may have been madness but so was Red Rock and in a last-minute decision he let the chart fly into the wind never to found again. With mere milliseconds left, he crouched forward and off instinct alone, shifted the pedals in a path that would lead them to survival. Toothless was instant on the pick-up angling right followed by a sharp left past a rock. Another right with another sharp click and change of angle between a set of columns. The lateral movement was sharp with precision as the Night Fury making these turns with precision, though not all credit could go his way as together, Hiccup and Toothless worked as one.

A sharp formation broke the waters surface but with sublime fluency, they barrel rolled over the top darting between two more stone faces. Their weaving continued, in and out with the solid edges coming daringly close as finally they saw the light cones shine through gaps in the fog and in a final bank right they emerged victorious. Hiccup's heart was thundering with each panted breath he took as clear open sea expanded before them; the trials now passed.

He threw his hands in the air as they glided out to nowhere. 'YEEAAAHHHH!'

With that Toothless sprang his own combustible surprise firing a purple streak of plasma that exploded right in their line of flight. 'Come on,' Hiccup deflated as the lingering flames washed over them searing the edges of his entire self.

It was certainly a sight when Mala dropped in for a visit to find Hiccup singed with slight traces of soot and his hair whipped back from the wind. They were camped out by the pond in the back yard with a small pile of fish for Toothless. At her incredulous expression all Hiccup could muster was a nervous smile.

Perhaps I should explain… From the beginning. It all started in 2002 when my Mum brought home a wild dragon; a Windwalker whom we aptly named Windy due to well, me. Mum was the leading dragonologist in Berk and thanks to her work, we have uncovered several wondrous species. Unfortunately she was in a road accident in 2004 and since then, it's just been Dad, Windy and I. Her protégé, Diane Mala took up the mantle and in sense has become a second mother to me and further fuelled my own interest in dragons. Since then I've been living the typical life of a typical school kid. That was up until just over a year ago…

Up until then, I had a couple of close friends; Cami and Tom, I kept my head low avoiding pointless and lame scrutiny from others and on top of that a crush on the most enticing girl in my year. You know, normal teenage stuff. Except I also carried one of the biggest secrets on Berk. Then it just so happens that a camping trip to Raven's Point with my Dad turns my life on its head. First, Dad reveals he has a return onset of cancer, that is having hidden his first case from me completely. But what happened next changed everything. Whether it was luck or providence is irrelevant for the fact of the matter was, I had found a Night Fury; the dragon thought to be only a myth.

He was tangled and injured by a bola trap but after some time, we freed him only for him to run away. I thought it was the last I'd ever see of that dragon, not counting on him to follow us home as if to pay some kind of debt. Nonetheless, he just appeared one afternoon and after some drawing in the dirt I had earnt his trust. We now call him Toothless for a unique ability to retract his teeth. As if that wasn't already a predicament, Mala came to me with a choice to join compete in dragon racing for the next season. I had gone my whole life believing that was never an option; turns out it was all because Dad refused the prospect, at least until his cancer scare made him realise his mortality and since then he's become somewhat more open to alternative ideas.

Well that was one reason at least. Toothless was injured when he was shot down resulting in the loss of his left tailfin. Since then it's been my mission to repair the damage and get him back into the air anyway I could hence be taking on the path of dragon racing with Windy. The funds from the races are to go into constructing a vigorous rig to allow him to fly at his own leisure. Which leads me to the present. So far I have constructed a basic saddle and tail apparatus from left over junk, a rig that works but it requires me to operate it upon Toothless' back. Our first test drive was no less than thrilling putting all my skills from the races into play. It's still my mission to improve on the design to one day even make it self-sustainable. That of course means more racing for more funds, but who am I kidding. I could almost say I'd be happy to race for free… but you need money for necessities.

I'd like to say that dragon racing is the only major difference in my life now but that is not the case. I also have friends, well more friends. It seems there are others who appreciate my talents and in hand so do I. The so-called 'cool group,' a gang of esteemed individuals whom excel in their respective areas extended a hand of invitation and with that their image changed from awestriking people to just genuine, normal people. Now, the crush I was talking about; Astrid Hofferson, she was one of them and is now one of my closer friends. Do I still have that crush? To be honest I don't know, my perspective of her changed with the gang. It might also have something to do with the fact she is secretly a dragon rider too.

Which leads to the present, October 2015, about a week away from event nineteen of twenty for the Preliminary league. I checked the ranking scores and the benchmark to reach is two hundred points for independent finalists. I'm currently on one hundred an eighty-three, Astrid is on one hundred and eighty-two and our main rival Huxter Prince is a little behind on one hundred and seventy-one. If all goes well, we'll make the benchmark for the Intermediate League but there lies the spanner in the works; Huxter. His recent attitude in the past few events have caused much grief.

After the Preliminary Sprint was another powerplay event of which I managed to pull twenty-seven points but Huxter was determined to make a mess of things leaving Astrid with a base of twenty-four points. The scoring for those events are ridiculous, 0.6 per gate, ten gates over four laps, which means by getting consistency through the gates you get twenty-four points just for competing, the extra bonus points are for leading consistently for a whole lap; ergo I held the ground for three laps before Huxter pulled a rotten but still legal manoeuvre.

His vengeance didn't cease going into the second retrieval match nor the sprint on Preliminary A. Astrid and I denied him a win oscillating for ourselves. Even Nineteen is at Red Rock again and this time its an A class event which means it's long and hard. Not that Red was already long and hard enough. The plan is if Astrid can capture a win there then we both have a shot at the Intermediate league...

October 24, 2015 - Event 19 || 'Red Rock' Race

Did the sight become old? Perhaps but sitting there ready for the nineteenth time certainly brought about a sense of calm. He cast a short glance to Astrid whom nodded once in return as they do, they knew the plan, they knew the path and all that was left was to ride it. Hiccup closed his eyes and focused on keeping his breathing steady awaiting the two-chime signal.

Be one with the dragon. Only together can you reach great heights.

The chimes sounded, his eyes snapped open and the world began moving at a great velocity as Windy kicked off the launch rig. His focus was narrowed on their path caring not for the other dragons or the obstacles in their way, just the spaces between. Since the first test drive, Hiccup and Toothless had partaken in many flights of their own testing out their gear in situations similar to those of the tracks. The different mindset of riding Toothless really put the absolute necessities into focus, that being picking paths at a lightning pace and being able to adjust for the both of you. The other dragons simply became guides for the path to be flown and the traversal of the shaft seemed a lot less hazardous than it might have been a few months ago. Windy slipped through the tight gaps with ease, the dragon's own confidence grown having trailed after Hiccup and Toothless through the rocks maze in the bay during training. They weaved through the angle arcs and changes in elevation with ease; the A class difficulty placed tighter routes through the shaft forcing single file flight through some areas which were of no concern for Hiccup as Windy slipped out the exit with ease closely followed by Huxter and then Astrid.

His cursory check didn't play well on his thoughts and Stormfly and Brailser battled it out for second. He pulled back on the grips dropping back in front of Huxter just enough that he had to break his line and redirect. Astrid took that moment to power ahead into the lead to which Windy powered on after her leaving Huxter trapped in his wake. They coasted the decline of the slope towards the column turn at frightening speeds, neither party letting up as they arced wide on the track cutting across the inside of the turn losing very little momentum.

This was the part, Hiccup was not looking forward to; the weaving columns. Exiting the tunnels hard, that very reason made itself apparent as Hiccup hastily reefed on the grips urging Windy up over the penalty sensor beam. Astrid and Huxter were not so lucky as both charged right through earning a three second penalty to their final times. The error was quickly amended as Astrid angled to catch onto Hiccup's trail before getting caught in another penalty beam. Compared their first couple of runs on Red Rock, these beams were oscillating vertically on the column making a patterned flight path impossible to conceive. A convenience to Hiccup and Windy's training but completely unforeseen by the other competitors.

Windy emerged from the columns with ease though their minds did not settle from that barrage of intense weaving. 'Three more laps of that. Great,' Hiccup mused.

He checked on Stormfly and Braisler trailing not far behind as they coasted into the berms. Again, there were penalty beams oscillating along the berm walls forcing the riders into unstable manoeuvres either low or high further breaking their fluency. They traversed the painstaking obstacles and pelted across the start line into the second lap of four. They managed to maintain a consistent position through the shaft and even on the decent towards the column, no one dared to challenge Hiccup's lead. Hiccup and Astrid had their plan but in that moment the realisation hit him with a twisted feeling. The scorings, no matter what Huxter did he wouldn't make the benchmark; there was no way to feasibly make the Intermediate league via the independent path. If he couldn't make it through, then that would mean he was making it his vengeful mission to thwart the success of others.

Hiccup's eyes widened at the prospect and a chill of fear ran through his spine. 'Astrid!'

Once again he drew the grips back and fell into a steady glide precariously close to the other two placing them side by side around the column pass. Soaring through the tunnel, they were ready for the onslaught of penalty beams breaking heavily to manage a better manoeuvring speed. In that moment, Hiccup urged windy to duck in front of Braisler essentially blocking his path and from further harassing Stormfly.

'Go! I'll hold him off!' Hiccup yelled to Astrid continuously checking back on the fuming face of Huxter.

'Oh no you won't!' Huxter roared rocking back and forth trying to find an opening.

Stormfly took the break skating a path through the maze of beams. Hiccup and Windy kept their speed steady keeping a keen eye on the path ahead whilst also marking Huxter. They emerged from the columns into the berms and still did Huxter continue his barrage of attempts to pass through. He attempted to draw Windy into the penalty beams but their intuition was too well founded to fall for such a trick resulting in the plan backfiring as he was buzzed for another time loss. Hiccup heard his frustrated screams over the roaring winds around them and it only served to heighten his own spirits. This streak continued into the third lap as the more furious Huxter became, the more errors he accumulated.

By the point of the column pass, Hiccup leant forward to Windy. 'Let's really ruin this guy's day.'

With that Windy kicked it up a gear utilising everything they had practiced with Toothless and skirted through the columns with ease leaving Huxter and Braisler in a trail of wind. He soon caught up to speeds with Stormfly coasting alongside them into the fourth and final lap. They relinquished their top edge speed they had especially when another dragon came into view ahead; clearly still on the third lap. If that wasn't fulfilling enough, Huxter didn't make an appearance out of nowhere again like he had on the Preliminary Sprint. It wasn't a time to relax too much however, a slow reaction would cost dearly and this kind of advantage they would take it to its full.

The finish line was coming into view and as it did Hiccup waved a hand forwards offering it to Astrid. 'Ladies first.'

Astrid was happy to oblige coaxing Stormfly for one last push ahead claiming first position closely followed by Windy and Hiccup in second. The cheers of the crowd erupted as they glided on through coming to a relaxed landing, each of them drawing relieving breaths of air. Hiccup dismounted and began scratching at Windy's scales when a sudden force enveloped him a tight hug. He quickly realised it was Astrid returning the gesture and finding a certain sense of ease about the contact; it felt inviting, warm. His cheeks were soon feeling the same and for all he could tell so was Astrid's just by the way her helmet was angled downwards when they parted.

'Um thanks, for helping me out there,' she acknowledged and for whatever reason, he knew she was smiling at him; perhaps because he was grinning like an idiot.

'Ahh, yeah um. You know. Can't… Can't let you have all the fun,' he stuttered.

The moment however was short lived when thumping wind echoed above followed by a thud as Braisler landed with a snarl. Huxter scrambled down with a huff of exhaustion taking off his helmet and revealing a sweat glazed head of blond hair and icy eyes that pierced the duo with a glare that left them on the side of caution.

His breathing was heavy and those eyes never departed them as he finally spoke. 'You. Who are you?' he growled with a low voice.

Hiccup shook his head, this effort was futile. 'You know we won't tell you.'

'No. no, I deserve to know. I deserve to know which nameless nobody has robbed me of my place,' he scowled pointing inwards towards himself.

'Nameless nobody? We haven't robbed you of anything. These are races Huxter, you aren't entitled to victory, they have to be earnt,' Astrid responded.

'Oh yeah. Says you and your enhanced dragons. Why don't you earn it like the rest of us huh?' Huxter continued raising his arms in emphasis. 'If you were on regular dragons, I bet you wouldn't be half as good!'

'And what makes you say that?' Hiccup returned feeling that last comment marked him.

'It's the truth, you're nothing without those dragons,' Huxter continued to taunt.

Hiccup took a step forward only for Astrid to grab his shoulder. 'Hic… Hey. Don't. It's not worth it,' she advised him in a softer voice drawing him back towards their dragons.

She was glancing around to see the other riders arriving looking weary and worn. 'Look Huxter,' he sighed a breath to calm his nerves. 'I'm gonna be straight with you. You don't know who we are. It's possible you never will and quite frankly it doesn't really matter. The point is we are here as representatives of the dragon Sanctuary to ride these dragons for research and that's all you really need to know.'

Hiccup was about to turn away when a sudden spike of brilliance or sheer stupidity struck. 'But if it means that much to you. I'll say this. Behind these helmets are two people who live their lives for benefits of all dragons. Fortune may be on our side but I can guarantee you, we could ride any dragon and still finish on top. So you'd best be careful what you do next. It may not go the way want.'

With that he turned leaving a seething Huxter standing along in the middle of the track to be stared at by the eyes of the other riders. When they left through the exit barriers and disappeared into the concrete halls under the stadium, Hiccup leant himself against the wall and slowly slunk to the ground as he felt his hands shaking from the adrenaline.

'Hiccup?' Astrid gasped ducking over to him. 'What's wrong?'

'That may have been a mistake,' he stuttered through shaky breaths.

'You're telling me?' she remarked joining him on the ground. 'How are you feeling?'

'Tired, sore, suddenly very aware of the fact I just called out Huxter Prince with a lie,' he admitted raising Astrid's brow.

'Wait, that was a lie?' she exclaimed.

'Yeah?' he replied felling even less confident now.

'Really?' she still wasn't convinced.

He coughed out a laugh. 'Come on, you know we can't actually beat him on any dragon.'

She eyed him with an expression that begged to differ resulting in another stifled laugh that turned into a cough. 'Well, I thought you were very convincing all the same.'

'You know that's not a good thing,' he carefully noted.

'Well I'll be sure to remind you not to do so in the future,' she stood up offering a hand to Hiccup. 'Come on, lets get back to base and get warm. A cold is the last thing we need.'

Monday November 9, 5 nights until the Preliminary Final

It was spot of luck really to obtain the cassette player seeing as they were all but obsolete and unused for the majority. Nonetheless, it was an investment well spent especially with the recent influx of prize money. The deposits were small but over time they built up to a sound little sum; enough to keep his gear maintained and fund the tailfin project. Hiccup had figured he would have had to qualify for the Intermediate league before any kind of monetary reward appeared so it was a nice surprise when he was awarded a small check after the Preliminary Sprint for his overall success. Astrid was in the same boat though to what endeavours she had planned for such a utility was beyond his knowledge and needn't be his concern either.

He had been through three of his mother's tapes so far and within them were things he had lost to the dark recesses of his memory. Moments in time, captures of a memory he longed to know again. He was young, a child that he hardly knew to the extent that he didn't recognise himself, the playful nature, the curious eyes that sought new things wherever he looked. Then there was Windy, just as clumsy hobbling around on three paws dragging his wings in the dirt as his luminous eyes glowed their pale blue. At a young age they seemed disproportionate to the head; too large but in that respect glorious and bearing the same curiosity. They way their younger selves played with each other seemed to mirror them today, as if he was looking back on some kind of template, the original complex that evolved into who they were today.

'Harold, over here,' his mother's voice sounded in the recording.

That smile, the smile of pure happiness and untampered innocence. 'Look!' Valka's arm appeared in the capture pointing towards Windy as he rolled around in the grass.

His younger self giggled running towards the squirming reptile before stumbling over in front of him. He looked shocked, surprise at his sudden appearance but nothing else; Hiccup was thinking he was about to start crying but he just sat there confused as to what happened, that was before Windy sneezed and the mood lightened again as he starting laughing hysterically at the dragon.

'Windy sneezed,' Hiccup managed to squeeze through his fits of laughter.

In the present Hiccup could only smile at his own antics. 'Not much has changed buddy,' he said to himself before realising the absurdity of such a gesture.

'Right, I think that's enough for now, I'm beginning to talk to myself from the past,' he mused closing the cassette files having found what he was after.

With that little detour done, he found himself back onto what he was originally planning to do, analysing the footage from the 2014 Preliminary final; specifically the competitiveness between Huxter and Dagur. The race they competed in was the same he was about to tackle which in his mind made him think there would be a certain level of anxiety for Huxter this year. He may have been well and truly out for a chance at the Intermediate league but neither were Astrid or himself. If there was anything he could find that might allude to danger then he wanted to know, Huxter had jumped too many surprises on them in the past and he was not ready to be caught unprepared.

Throughout the first three laps, Huxter and Dagur seemed to have control of their actions, gliding steadily through the course ahead of the competition. The commentary was speaking heavily of their rivalry throughout the competition, the dangerous manoeuvres and tactics resulting in a fiery rivalry. Hiccup was getting the feeling it was something Huxter seemed to gravitate towards, not a completely fair appraisal as he had his own hand in the works but nonetheless present. It wasn't until the fourth lap that the cracks started to show in their focused facades. Huxter made the first move going for a close encounter to cut Dagur off but against all odds, he worked that Gronkle of his like a hot knife through butter. Upon the first viewing he thought they were at each other's throats trying to gain the upper hand but the closer Hiccup watched the sooner it came to fruition that all the aggression came from Huxter alone.

It was a bizarre revelation considering Dagur was supposedly a little unstable when it came to his mental health but all his manoeuvres, all his tricks were evasive strategies that cut close to the margin. Hiccup now had a greater appreciation and a solid understanding for why he was selected into the league; Dagur was a smart and resourceful rider. When it came to the point of the final leg of the race, Hiccup slowed the playback speed to seventy-five percent picking out the finer details thoroughly as they glided into the final stretch off the berm. That's when he saw it, the slight tremble followed by a duck in the air and Braisler rising from underneath to push his opponent up and out of the way. It was a lightning fast movement that could easily be missed especially when Braisler concluded his own mind and backed out at the last second resulting in Dagur retaining his lead over the finish. He replayed the scene again, watching the move over and over and until he had it memorised detail for detail. If Huxter was playing for keeps it was guaranteed he would try something foolish like this, what else did he have to lose? Packaging the files into a zip folder, he forwarded the information Astrid's email hoping she too would have time to review the footage before the race. For now, it was late and he was tired, a symptom cured by only one thing; sleep.

Tuesday November 10, 4 nights until the Preliminary Final

'Hiccup!' Astrid's voice rang across the courtyard catching the attention of Cami and Thuggory too. 'I got your message,' her expression wasn't reassuring.

'What do you think?' He replied in a vague manner.

Thinking along the same nonspecific line, Astrid replied as such. 'Not good. We need to discuss this in detail.'

'Alright,' Hiccup ran over his mental timetable for the day. 'Are you busy at lunch?'

'Yeah, I have an early science exam that's running over into the break, it's an experiemnt' she explained which stunted his thoughts for a moment.

His day was mostly packed with preparation for exam block next week yet a glimmer of hope remained thanks to an allocated study period during English. It was a risk that he wasn't keen on taking considering the hindrance that was already on their studies but for this he would have to make an exception.

'I have an idea. We have that study period for English,' he suggested which brought further concern over her face. 'Just hear me out, we can use messenger in the small window tab.'

'How? The school blocks Facebook,' she reminded him.

'True. But your hotspot doesn't,' he smirked bringing a slight curled to Astrid's. 'Just make sure they don't catch you.'

'Obviously,' she replied. 'You sure about this? If you want to wait until tomorrow?'

'Sooner the better, more time to prepare,' Hiccup confirmed retaining the vagueness of their topic. 'I'll… read you later.'

She cast him a dubious look before rolling her eyes and taking off towards her first class. 'Real classy Hiccup,' she said over her shoulder.

'Eh, I try,' he called back receiving amused expressions from both parties either side of him.

'Was that, what I think it was about or something else?' Tom asked struggling to follow the exchange.

Hiccup simply patted his shoulder. 'The less you know the better Tom. Trust me.'

He still felt a little bad that he couldn't say much to them about the racing but the fact of the matter was, telling Cami and Tom was a risk enough. With that in mind, how much longer could they retain their anonymity from the public scene? It was something they had yet to discuss with Mala especially considering they were looking to forward their career into the higher leagues and not just disappear after the seasons end. Whatever their choices were, the end of the week would present them with an ultimatum.

Come the English study session, Hiccup logged on and in the reduced window, he loaded up the messenger window connected Astrid.

H: I'm in.

A minute passed to which he watched Miss Atali out of the corner of his eye to find she was content to remain at her desk and trust the students to work at their own incentive. A perfect scenario to work with, now all that he awaited was for Astrid to respond. With his headphones in, he heard the little bubble sound pop as her reply came through.

A: Ok, so what's the plan.

In another secondary window, Hiccup brought up the video files of the 2014 final and tucked them in a corner of his screen for reference.

H: For the most part Huxter was up to his usual advances, stuff we can handle with ease but there is one thing we haven't encountered yet. If you look at the video, 26:35 Huxter makes a short dive to push Dagur higher and then sneak out in front.

A: I saw that last night too, but isn't that illegal?

H: It depends, the technicality of that move comes down to contact.

A: Right, if there's no contact there's not a problem.

H: That's where the problem is. I think Huxter's got to a point where he doesn't care if he gets disqualified or not. So he's going to make it absolute Helheim for us.

Movement to his left caught Hiccup's eyes to which he readied a window change, not that it would really help but it did ease his conscience.

A: Well if he's going to deliberately cause a commotion he'll be forcibly removed and banned from the league so he'll have to play it safe.

H: True.

H: I guess the best thing we can do is train a manoeuvre to counter his offensive.

A: With less than a week? It's possible but the tracks are packed. We'd never get a decent session in.

H: Who said anything about the tracks?

A: :|

A: I'm not sure I should approve of this, technically you're not supposed to train outside of registered spaces.

H: Nor are you supposed to keep dragons as pets but hey, when has that stopped me?

A: Yeah well, other than by association, I haven't committed crime.

A: And don't you dare say…

She was halfway through typing when Hiccup replied.

H: There's a first time for everything

A: :|

…

…

A: Fine. Where do you have in mind?

H: Oh, a little place by the cliffsides. Mala and I go there all the time, no one around, open area, great environment immersion.

A: Well, you'll have to let her know because I'm predisposed with other work. Of the academia variety.

H: Aren't we all.

The rest of the lesson continued in the safety of silence as Hiccup and Astrid messaged away discussing the finer points of their battle plan for the finals. Put simply, Mala was at a point between her personal amusement and her professional role to not endorse social networking during class. It was nonetheless a futile effort to try and deny such activity since the productivity of their discussion nonetheless resulted in a fairly structured battle plan.

'I can say that you've definitely put a fair bit of thought into this, your idea to oscillate your position to wrangle with Huxter should be effective to keep him at bay. He can't attack two people at once so by numbers alone you have a distinct advantage,' Mala relayed the information presented to her.

'That's the general plan of attack. The tricky part however is effectively countering those points of aggression, if he is on us right from the beginning it'll give other the riders a chance to claim a sound lead on us,' Hiccup further elaborated but Mala appeared unfazed by the proposition.

'Not necessarily, any kind of early attack is wasted energy,' she explained piling the last of her things together. 'He'd wear out his dragon before he'd even have a chance at finishing the race.'

Hiccup nodded to the logic. 'Right, of course. Well ahh, on that note. Is it possible to take a trip out to the Western cliffs with Astrid and Stormfly? I have an idea on how we can counter against Huxter's advances,' he proposed.

Mala paused for a brief moment in consideration, no doubt the logistics of such an action was risky beyond what she would normally allow. 'Taking Windy is one thing Hiccup, Stormfly is under strict care and monitoring by the Sanctuary. I can't just walk in and take her out on some recreational… leave,' she slowed her train of thoughts as she realised a loop hole in the policy.

'Well now I feel like a fool,' she remarked to herself. 'I can do exactly that. I have the authority to warrant an expressed time for leave for a dragon to roam freely for a short while. All those years of serving under Valka I never really thought about it. In a way, I'm still her as the leader; we're just here to carry on her legacy,' Mala sighed happily to herself.

She slung her pack over her shoulder and headed towards the theatre exit. 'I'll see about getting that warrant as fast as possible. The faster we can prepare, the greater chance we have against Huxter.'

'Right,' Hiccup agreed falling into step with her. 'Um one more thing. If all goes well, what does that mean for Astrid and my anonymity?'

She cast a curious expression in return. 'What do you mean?'

'Well, in the past the wild card entries usually exit the tournament after a season. They only stand in to perform the research and then disappear after that,' Hiccup elaborated eluding to their unique position. 'Obviously, Astrid and I are looking to continue into the next season.'

'Of course you are,' she stated as if it were obvious information.

'Yes but what does that mean for us? Will we have to reveal ourselves or do we continue under the Wild Card platform?' He asked again not understanding Mala's nonchalant responses.

She simply smiled back and rested a hand on his shoulder. 'That decision, is entirely up to you two. Wild Cards of the past generally don't perform near to the standard that you have, it's not in their interest. But you now have the chance to make history. Take some time to think about it, discuss it with Astrid, tell your friends even. It is entirely up to you what you do with this power.'

It was an answer but it didn't help to ease the mind. We could, if we wanted to, go on with the secrets, the lies of which we've gotten pretty good at. I don't say that as something to be proud of if anything it just makes me feel horrible myself. There are times I look to see Astrid after another excuse to avoid catching up with our friends; there is only shame and sadness. We know, Cami and Tom know and true to their word they can only watch back as we slowly unravel. A few weeks back there was a moment where Astrid and I sat in silence, we were tired in both body and mind from the trials of life itself. I can remember clearly the solemn pain written across her face. As it turns out the gang are starting to get worried, the strange bruises we're obtaining, all remnants of the events and other marks that are leaving us mentally taxed. I'm not sure how we are staying afloat in our subjects but there are too many late nights and exhausting days to count. It only gets harder from here too.

Thursday November 12, 2 sleeps until the Preliminary Final

H: Hey Cami, can you do me a big favour? Can you and Tom foot enough tickets for the gang to the Preliminary finals? I'll make it up to you, I promise.

C: Why? What r u up to?

H: You'll see…

Hiccup tucked his phone away in his pack before Cami could reply, only to take in the scenery of the ocean. He stood on the edge feeling the breeze of the later autumn air bite at his skin, there was no way to turn back the clock. In just a few days their fate would be decided and until that point the future looked about as clear as staring through tinted colour glass.

'Hey?' Astrid's voice rang from behind. 'You ok?'

He jumped back to reality. 'Yeah, let's get started. Come on Windy.'

The Windwalker trotted over and in a fluent motion, Hiccup vaulted himself up and into the saddle locking in with his harness. Astrid was just as graceful sitting up on her dragon waiting for Mala to direct them on the best course for practice.

'Ok, the best thing we can do is brush up on our balance techniques. Glide out over the cliff and use the updraft to remain steady in the air. Only I want you to ride with one directly above the other,' she instructed pointing out of the edge.

They were quick to follow through leaping out over the edge and catching the wind. Astrid glided above at first keeping Stormfly steady as she balanced her own weight whilst peering. They switched positions with Windy flipping to hover above this time, their movements minimalised and steady. Basic techniques like these were practiced in abundance but they made for good warm ups before attending to trying more exercises. From there they moved into developing a technique devised from Huxter's attack, with either rider assuming Huxter's form whilst the other dodged it in a fluent manner. The difficulty came when considering they couldn't gain further speed having already been at full velocity nor would braking benefit them in any scenario; that was an invitation to take the lead. So they practised in a stationary position slowly moving into a slow glide across the cliffside. By the time the last of the afternoon light came around Hiccup and Windy had found the best countermeasure was a short drop roll that tucked them in under the rising opponent thus giving a slight boost ahead.

Astrid took the role of Huxter rising from underneath to in an attempt to push Windy higher. Hiccup watched her movements carefully and timed the roll to the exact moment leaning over thus prompting Windy to slide to the side, tucking his wings briefly before catching wind on the downfall and launching them out from underneath. It was a clean execution raising the hopes the of the riders for the final race. When it came for Astrid's turn however, they found an added element of difficulty thanks to Stormfly's less streamlined form. Windy had the advantage to cut through the air like a hot knife through butter but Stormfly despite being physically enhanced, still had to work too maintain her velocity. It was the dual nature of her augmentation in which she had far greater endurance allowing her to work harder for far longer then the regular Deadly Nadder.

That didn't however account for her general size in any case as when she went to roll, the arc was wider and the recovery time slower. It was only now occurring to Hiccup that a run through the rock bay where he flew with Toothless was an optimal place to work on her reaction time but given their window of training, that was no longer an option. With each roll, Hiccup and Windy increased the rate of their ascension to a point that surpassed Huxter's failed attempt. Stormfly however was unable to accommodate for the sharp movement in time with her paw clipping the sails of Windy's wing sending them both into an unbalanced tumble. They fought hard for recovery regaining posture both dragons screeching as they worked hard to keep their stability.

Both riders breathed a sigh of relief before Hiccup called out. 'Let's try again.'

They reset the positions and Windy went for the harp ascension, only further disaster was to follow. Stormfly clipped Windy again for a re-enactment of their previous attempt. Again they shook it off and continued for a third run with the mindset to keep going until they got it right. Still the manoeuvre proved to much strain on Stormfly's ability and by the eighth attempt Astrid called it quits.

'Hiccup wait! We can't keep going on like this, our dragons are exhausted,' She informed him noting the weary expression on her dragon's face.

Hiccup's mind felt fogged with frustration, they almost had it but she was right all the same. 'No you're right. I'm Sorry. We can't do anymore today,' he admitted directing Windy back towards solid ground.

When they reached the cliffside, they slowly slid from their saddles quite to the contrary of their energetic entry a few hours ago. 'Hiccup?' Astrid approached him holding her arm.

He was feeling the same thing; despite the progress they had made today alone, it still felt like failure. 'I'm sorry we could get it.'

'It's alright. Who knows, we might just get lucky and Huxter won't try it,' he tried to find hope in the positives to raise her spirits.

Whilst he was searching for a sign of optimism in her face she continued to avoid his gaze looking out over to the sunset. 'Look, I've been thinking. You've got the best chance of us making it through…'

'No Astrid,' he tried to intervene.

'I can distract Huxter whilst you make a sprint for the finish,' she followed through with her suggestion.

'No. You and I will make it through, don't abandon this for me? We're a team. We stick together. We will find a way,' he smiled back with a half grin searching for some positive reaction.

She finally raised her gaze meet his emerald with her azure blue. 'I'm holding you on that,' she replied before wrapping her arms around him.

Friday Novemeber 13, Night before the Preliminary Final

Hiccup had his head resting in his arms aimlessly flicking his pencil up his desk over and over again as it rolled back down the slight incline. On his desktop, the recordings of the next set of the cassettes in the collection played on. Heavy steps echoed through the walls signalling the approach of his father.

'Oh hey Dad, um Mala's not here...' he fumbled with his words looking up to pause the video.

'I know,' Stoick replied as he squeezed in through the doorway. 'I came looking for you. Big day tomorrow, how are you feeling?'

Hiccup ran his hand through his hair. 'Like I should probably go to bed?'

Stoick chuckled feeling quite agreeable with that remark. 'Aye, that's probably a good idea. Have you got a plan for tomorrow?'

Hiccup lolled his head as he thought over simple but effective premise. 'Yeah, the usual go to. Conserve energy where you can, hit the corners at the right angles, pick the gaps without hesitation…'

'And watch out for Huxter Prince. I've had the ah, 'privilege' of meeting his folks the other day,' Stoick revealed with a short emphasis on privilege.

'Oh?' Hiccup's curiosity grew.

Stoick's brow lowered as he reflected upon their encounter. 'Yes, they are very punctual people, much like their son no doubt. Seemed quite adamant of his ability to win the finals.'

'I can bet,' Hiccup quipped taking to his feet to pack away some of the clutter on his desk. 'Huxter said something of the sort during our last encounter.'

'I see. Well, all I can say is be careful. I can imagine his parents will have something to say by the time its over,' Stoick warned his face seemingly neutral but there was an edge to it.

'That or Huxter will take matters into his own hands,' Hiccup noted drawing from his experiences.

'Has he threatened you?' Stoick's concern grew.

'What? No, just spouted about entitlement,' he confirmed but it didn't shake of the possibility of action on the track. 'But there is a possibility he may try to take out As… the other wild card or myself,' he saved an almost slip up.

'What! That's madness, he'd be disqualified in an instant,' Stoick retorted quite strongly.

Hiccup shook his head as he slid the box of tapes under his desk. 'I don't think he cares anymore. Since he worked out he won't have enough points to meet the intermediate league benchmark, he's made it his mission to try and prevent us from victory. Which is what we've been training for.'

His father seemed to accept that ultimatum nodding his head. 'Ok. Just… be careful son. If anything were to happen to you I'd…'

'I know. We've got it under control,' he reassured him looking up into his expression that still seemed to bear a sense of remorse. 'Are you gonna be ok?'

'I'll be alright son,' he spoke off instinct, words that would normally fall out of his mouth without a second thought. 'But, you know. Your mother would be so proud right now, I wish she was here to see you.'

'Yeah, me too,' Hiccup concurred feeling that little ache in his heart.

'Look Harold I... I just wanted to say thank you. Thank you for helping to change my mind. I was so stuck in the past with the grief of losing your mother, the same fear of losing you. Heck, I already had and it took two episodes of cancer for me to realise it,' Stoick revealed looking ashamed from the shadows of his past. 'I made a promise to myself never to put you through that again and I also realised that I missed spending time with you; which is why I got these.'

He held out two tickets for the Championship Finals on November twenty first, a week after the Preliminary and Intermediate competition. 'They've reopened the old Ironil track on the way to Breakneck Bog. I was thinking with all that's going on, you'd like to go and watch for a change.'

'Well. So long as you show up for the Pre-league tomorrow race tomorrow,' he cast a mischievous grin despite the fact there was no way he was turning down the offer.

'Of course, I'm even bringing Gobber along despite his, 'protesting,' By the tone he used it was clear that word otherwise referred to Gobber being more than delighted to watch the race.

Hiccup's façade couldn't hold breaking into a light chuckle. 'Thanks Dad.'

November 14, 2015 - Event 20 || 'Preliminary A' Annual Finals Race

The general atmosphere of the Preliminary A race track was far more alive than any previous venture here. Crowds of people were about the stadiums joining in with the general hullabaloo of merchandise stalls and preview panels all building the up the excitement for the main event. Over the loudspeakers and super screens posted around the grounds, recordings of highlights from the season were playing along with live commentary from Felice and Craig as they speculated on the results for today.

Even from the competitor's zone Hiccup could have sworn there were more people present than he'd ever seen before at the grounds. 'It's a bit of an unspoken tradition really, fans go to the Preliminary races in the morning as like a teaser and then they travel over to the Intermediate event for the main show,' Astrid explained out of the blue.

She was working on her stretches making sure she didn't seize up mid race, which considering the stakes it was the last thing either of them wanted to happen. 'Yeah, makes sense. I guess it's just been a while since I've been to the finals. Normally I might catch a ride with Cami and Tom but you know,' he gestured in their general vicinity.

She straightened up from touching her toes. 'Are they coming today?'

'I told Cami to get tickets for the whole gang but she hasn't replied,' he said feeling a little irked at the gesture.

'They're probably wanting to surprise us. I know that's something the twins would suggest,' she replied casually whilst tightening the strap on her right-hand glove; the only glove she wore.

'True,' Hiccup concurred on the thought only to have his attention caught by the item of clothing. 'Hey, do you want a second glove? I have spares.'

'No,' she sung completely unfazed. 'I only wear this to hide a nasty scar.'

That caught Hiccup by surprise considering her motto on scars. 'Wait, I thought you liked scars?'

'Some scars,' she said walking past him to collect their helmets. 'The fun ones I get while training. Others, not so much.'

He caught his helmet as she threw it to him. 'I'll tell you about it later,' she noted walking outside the tent. 'Come on. We're wings up in twenty.'

He followed out after her making sure his helmet was secure as they released their dragons from the tether. 'Huh, it's funny. You always wear sleeves to cover it at school, even in the summer no wonder I didn't notice. Then again I don't really look at your hands.'

She looked right at him but through the helmet all he saw was the intense stare of a black visor. 'No, you don't,' she replied teasingly.

He froze in place as he tried to guess what sort of face she was making. 'Just the back of my head,' she chuckled at the throwback to over a year ago, once again walking away with Stormfly leaving a perplexed Hiccup behind.

He exhaled a sigh of relief. 'Y… You know I never would,' he called after her with Windy in hand which only caused her to laugh more.

'I know,' sang back to him.

All Hiccup felt was the burning sensation on his cheeks as they walked towards the stadium channels that lead to the launch rig. Even as they talked he couldn't help but feel that bubbling feeling in the pit of his stomach build. Whether it be the anticipation of constantly stepping closer to the inevitable or something else he couldn't tell. What ever it was, it felt bittersweet; the dual bands emotion battling each other out as they fought for control over Hiccup's emotions but ultimately balancing each other out. In some cases it was comfortable and then a spike of anxiety hit when he saw the impending structure before them. The marshalling area came into view and they could see a few other riders assembled and ready; all veterans of the competition, all looking for a chance to prove their worth.

Hiccup last looked at the scores before heading out, there were only two other riders with the potential to make the intermediate league, David Berthal and Harrison Amos respectively riding red and green Nightmares. The others on the track were Janey Minden with her purple Nadder, Tenesha Farris on the orange Trimmed Typhoomerang much to Hiccup's continued 'amusement' and of course…

'Huccy Huxter Prince! If it isn't the mighty doggy dogsbreath himself,' an alarming voice echoed to their left catching everyone's surprise.

It wasn't unusual for racers from the Intermediate league to come watch the Preliminary finals but the appearance of Dagur surely was a surprise. The young man was a solid build with dashing red hair, a stripped tattoo across his left eye and the grin of a complete maniac. He waltzed up without any care in the world to Huxter and wrapped him around the shoulders before staring off into the distance with a dreamy expression.

'Oh Huxter, I remember our time together like it was just last year…' He said in a poetic tone.

'Get off me!' Huxter scrambled away with a scowl on his face.

'Oof, such hostility,' he reacted in a sensual nature. 'Save it for the track HA HA!'

Then all of a sudden his tone went from wild to completely controlled and calm. 'Now where are those two Wild Cards I wonder?' he asked to himself before crazed eyes exploded upon their sight.

'THERE THEY ARE! Oh can I say it is such an honour to finally meet you!' There it was again, from scales of eleven right back down to one. 'I've heard so much about you two and how you're kicking doggy breaths backside. MMMPPH so proud,' he fake wiped a tear from his eye.

Completely spontaneous he clasped Hiccup's hand and shook it roughly. 'Oh I haven't introduced myself, how rude of me! Dagur the Deranged, esquire,' he took an extravagant low bow. 'And you madame,' he gently took her right hand and kissed it.

'Oh, not that hand,' Hiccup teased earning snigger and a half punch from Astrid.

Dagurs eyes snapped to attention and his smile went to insane widths. 'OOOH, sizzling romance, I love it! Well. Good luck to you both, I hope to see you next year with us big boys… and girls,' he softly gestured to Astrid. 'HA HA! Ciao.'

With that he sauntered off with powerful swagger just emanating from his general self. Hiccup and Astrid on the other hand were left standing totally bamboozled by that exuberant display of deranged excitement.

'That was…' Hiccup began.

'Interesting?' Astrid filled in the gap.

'I was gonna say, bizarre,' he replied.

'Kinda the same thing,' she followed as they joined with the rest of the riders.

'At least we know what he's like in person now,' Hiccup noted a fact. 'Though I can't imagine he's like that in the races.'

'Don't be so sure,' Huxter intervened before turning his head away from them, his expression less than pleased.

'Well, this is going to be fun,' Hiccup quipped as the marshal appeared from the shadow of the passageway.

'How are you feeling?' Astrid asked not removing her eyes from their path ahead.

'After… you know, that,' he gestured off to the side in reference of Dagur. 'inexplicably rejuvenated, yet still shaking in my boots.'

'He certainly has an atmosphere of his own,' Astrid concurred.

'How about you?' He returned the courtesy.

'Oh you know, just coming to terms with he fact we are about to race eight laps that will ultimately decide the fate of our racing careers,' she admitted flexing her fingers to keep them warm and ready.

'Well there is always next year?' Hiccup acknowledged the reality of the situation.

'For you maybe, but not for me,' she revealed catching Hiccup by surprise.

'What?' he gasped.

'My contract with the Sanctury only lasts a year. Unless I qualify for the Intermediate league or accepted a new contract with one of the clubs, after this race, the terms of agreement are technically met. I will have raced a for a full season on the grounds of research and data collection therefore fulfilling the contract,' she explained filling the gaps of a few of questions Hiccup didn't know he even had.

When she offered to distract Huxter whilst he went for the win, that was in knowledge of her contract expiring. He found that suggestion odd and unlike Astrid's usual competitive demeanour but the overall stress of everything in their lives and the diminishing chances of being successful here today was obviously enough to make her consider alternatives. He couldn't account for her home life either as no one really seemed to know about it, just that her parents like her uncle Finn were part of the fire brigade.

'Ok then. Are you sure you still want to go through with this today?' he asked now he understood what she was implying.

She finally broke her stare to look right back at him. 'Only if we make it to the other side.'

That moment brought a smile to Hiccup's face as he looked up to their dragons. 'Then we make it. Together.'

Light returned in its blazing glory as they stepped out from the passage way to be greeted by the cheers of hundreds of people waiting anticipation for what was going to be an incredible strenuous event. All over the stadiums, people were jumping up and down flashing large cardboard sign with the rider's names upon them. Hiccup swivelled on the spot and sitting front row above the channel was the entire gang with a card that read: WINDY AND STORMFLY #TEAMWILDCARD. He tapped Astrid's arm and pointed up to them which in turn earned them shrill cries and cheers form the gang as they too spotted their dark helmets and dragons.

'BRING EM' HOME WINDY!' Cami screamed over the general roar of the crowd.

'I guess she got the tickets,' Astrid sassed back

'Yeah, how about that. Did you ever tell the others?' Hiccup asked.

'Nope,' she replied short and definitive.

'Let me guess Snotlout?' he guessed more as a joke which became more surprise when Astrid confirmed it.

'Yep. Snotlout.' She said before leading Stormfly to take her place on the launch rig.

Hiccup let her pass assuming his passion to the right. 'Well this'll be interesting,' he quipped before pressing the button for his DLX cam.

The start line referee stood up upon his overhead platform ready to instruct them on the final layout. 'Alright. You're clear to mount!' He instructed.

The riders all took their place, strapping into the stirrups and latching their harnesses. Each pair of eyes now returned their gaze to the referee awaiting what was the final debriefing of the season.

He took a deep breath and then proceeded. 'This year we have seen some of the finest dragon racing this league has to offer. You should all be proud at the distance you've come to qualify for the Preliminary finals; of one hundred and twenty-six applicants, only seven of you have the chance to compete today and that in of itself is an achievement to be proud of. Now the rules haven't changed. This is an A class difficulty which means time traps and tighter obstacles as you are aware of. You have to complete eight laps of the course, so watch your pace. You don't want to wear out your dragon. Finally, respect your fellow competitors which means no deliberate contact. We look forward to seeing how you fare because for some of you, this is a path to even greater opportunities. Good luck dragon riders,' he stood back from the mic and moved across the platform to where the launch controls where.

This was it, the last race of the season, the race that would decide their fate in dragon racing. Red, Red, Yellow, Yellow. If not for glory and opportunity.

'For Toothless,' Hiccup whispered to himself.

GREEN. The Two chimes rang and fourteen pairs of legs sprang with phenomenal strength launching them with practiced precision off the launch rig and into a tight streamline formation of head to tail. In the lead was Harrison followed by Janey, Huxter, Hiccup, Astrid, Tenesha and finally David trailing effortlessly behind. The first ascending curve to the left approached lightning fast and already David was flying up beside Tensha. The bend whipped back to the left opening an opportunity for Hiccup and Astrid to duck in on the inside passing Huxter early and dropping in behind Harry.

'Take the lead, I'll watch Huxter,' Hiccup called out to Astrid who nodded urging Stormfly after Harry.

Huxter missed no part of that instruction and growled as already he was being marked by his rival. 'You won't stop me this time Windwalker!'

'I bed to differ Dogsbreath!' Hiccup taunted knowing full well the damage that was about to be unleashed upon the race.

Huxter urged Braisler on for a pass but against Windy's superior agility meant that there was no gap to find. In the game of cat and mouse, Tenesha and David found a break up the left pushing their dragons past Hiccup and Huxter as they cantered into the following decent.

It was a moment of strange unfamiliarity as the other two riders made their pass. 'Ok, that's different,' Hiccup mused.

Nonetheless, it proved no effort for Windy when he urged him forward taking a rather higher approach swiftly gliding over the two veterans and further springing a third surprise on Janey as he swooped from underneath into the ascension towards the second stadium. In that moment of deception he had left Huxter in a trail of wind coming last with David and Tenesha creating a barrier in front of him whilst also ducking in behind Harry in second as Astrid maintained the new lead.

The roaring waves of the crowd passed by quite quickly as they soared into the next berm curving right. Astrid had the splendour of the optimal route, whilst from behind Hiccup checked to find Huxter had broken past the wall of David and Tenesha and was working Braisler hard on the inner most path. Windy was soon coming up upon Harry's tail but he too was quite aware of his presence weaving to block his passes. It proved no high a trial as Windy rose high at the apex of the berm and with extreme fluidity rolled into a welcome boost of speed ducking just in front of Harry. He was now catching up to Stormfly but so too was Braisler making efficient use of the inside curve.

Ahead they approached the tunnel underpass but in that moment, Huxter drove a hard line cutting off Astrid in a dangerous manoeuvre that threatened to throw Stormfly off balance. Hiccup of course being directly behind her felt the strain as Windy made a last second dodge.

'Gods, it's still the first lap,' Hiccup mumbled under his breath as they entered the tunnel along the right edge.

The howling winds echoed around them as they coasted through the circular tube, the soft illumination of the interior lights becoming a solid streak of white light. Windy tucked in close forming a singular line with Huxter at the lead, his path direct and deliberate. Hiccup in the meantime took the short respite to check the numbers; the back company still battled amongst themselves just like they were against Huxter. This was only the first lap, too soon to work so hard for a break, a course of action he had been distracted into and just as that realisation came did a new plan rise to fruition. They zoomed out the tunnel exit in blistering pace, the front trio arcing side by side into the next bank left. Huxter once more took the inside with Hiccup in the middle and Astrid on his right as the shorter pass opened into the steep descent.

Hiccup raised his arm and balled his hand gesturing to Astrid to pull back. Just as they reached to edge of the dip, Windy and Stormfly angled out letting the other riders fall into place before them. Just on the edge of his hearing, he could hear Craig the commentator make an update on their strange manoeuvre.

'I have to say that was unexpected. They were off to a brimming start taking the lead within the first lap and now all of a sudden they've dropped back to last position,' he observed.

'It's an interesting play that's for sure. But considering their track record I'd say it was an intentional move,' Felice replied watching from the commentary box as the seven riders skated around the final berm into the sprint.

They looked like streaks of colour as they passed across the start line; Huxter in the lead followed by Janey, Harry, Tenesha, David and finally the Wild Cards. Hiccup and Astrid however stuck close on each other's wing close enough for them to discuss the next phase in Hiccup's plan. The remained tight on David's tail dropping into the first curve of the second lap.

'Astrid! There's no point trying to keep a lead on the competition. We need to play this smarter!' He called to her.

'I agree,' the dragons shifted their angle in towards the right-hand turn. 'What are you thinking, steady pace increase?' she asked.

'Exactly! We still have that natural advantage. Let's use that and pick these guys off one by one. Their dragons will tire before ours do,' he confirmed resuming to guiding Windy upon the optimal route.

They were approaching the second stadium pass now and before them, the mess of competitive weaving continued as the other riders worked for the higher ranks among them. From the back, Windy and Stormfly held a steady line untarnished by the aggressive passes, a line that squeezed them through the gaps of the lower heads; Tenesha and David. Hiccup had to give credit to that Typhoomerang, from the first event back in March, he had come along way to where they were now and obviously scored some hefty points in the other tiers. Nonetheless, the large dragon was only so fast no matter the endurance he had built up over the season.

'Tenesha Farris. She's definitely shown some great potential this year as opposed to her faulty start in the previous season,' Craig began. 'The Red Wings United club were very pleased to have her join their ranks.'

'Mmm indeed. However, she only seems to ride Typhoomerangs and by the looks of it she has a favourite. The dragon she rides today is the same one she rode in the first event, the two seemingly having an interesting bond between them,' Felice continued.

'Well as all riders essentially should, it's key forming an efficient racing style,' Craig concurred.

The Wild Cards slipped up either side of the dragon catching the eye of Tenesha whom spotted them both creeping at a decent pace in front of her. As they entered the long passing berm before the tunnel, Hiccup raised his arm and waved a solid salute in acknowledgment of her efforts.

'I think I'm going to miss that dragon,' he muttered to himself as they entered the tunnel creeping right on the edge of David's dragon's tail.

The red Nightmare was shot out just ahead of them entering the berm at an unusually high angle. It was a small error but enough for the Hiccup to push Windy in on the inside breaking a fast jump into fourth. He checked back to find David had clued in on the manoeuvre dropping down in front of Stormfly just as she was about pass. Her startled squawk was enough to grow concern as Astrid battled to find an effective route past. Then in another fatal error in judgment, David fell for a fake swerve opening a whole in his defence on the inside. Stormfly ducked on through just as David closed the gap but it was a futile attempt as together the Wild Cards push on.

'David Berthal has seen many competitions in his short career, one of only a few third-year competitors in the league,' Felice began. 'He was extremely grateful when he was finally accepted into the Figga's Finest club, which is an interesting choice considering they are an all-women's team.'

Craig chuckled at the notion. 'Well from what I hear, he had an excellent argument.'

The Wild Cards reached the apex of the dip with David and Tenesha still worth the concern but in a comfortable position for the time being. Janey Minden guided her purple Nadder carefully into the final arc in a way that seemed to mirror Hiccup and Astrid's style. The thought was brief but it placed a small smile upon Astrid's face, someone's done their homework.

'Let's talk about Janey Minden for a moment Craig. She's a second-year veteran who has shown great skill in adapting to other rider's style of play. She narrowly missed out on an entry into the Whispering Tree's last year but she got her wish this year in October. She actually revealed in a short interview last week that she studies the patterns of the Wild Cards, whom she holds in quite high regard,' Felice explained ending on that positive note.

'This is what I've always said about collaborative efforts Felice. Janey has always been a true sportswoman from the beginning and I'm glad she's found a home with the Whispering Trees. People like her are what give Dragon Racing a good name, humility and respect off the track but cold hard efficiency in the air,' Craig elaborated.

The cheers of the crowd bellowed as they the dragons ripped through the air leaving a wake of wind to blow hats and for a few unlucky individuals, their skirts. Fishlegs sat back down after a quick snack run only for his face to be completely wide eyed and still.

'Fish? Fishface? Hey. Did your brain stop working or something?' Snotlout tried to pull his attention.

Fishlegs simply nodded and silently held up a packet of chips. 'Oh sweet Doritos, don't mind if I do,' Snotlout remarked opening the bag and crunching down on a chip.

Janey held her mark strong as they entered the U-bend offering no distinct gap for the taking. The third lap was proving to be much of a step compared to the first two. Almost considered as preview laps, the third time around the circuit included the aforementioned traps and barriers. Janey's Nadder ducked and weaved through the pop-up channels that divided the path briefly upon exiting the U-bend. Hiccup and Astrid adjusted quickly to each obstacle having a rough memory of the position to some of the barriers thanks to the sprint for event eighteen. Astrid took the opening this time leading Hiccup through a narrow canal formed upon the second stadium berm. She was game for sure to lead them on this path as extreme balance and precision was required to remain afloat. Janey however was lost at a shortfall of her own skill, it wouldn't have mattered how acute her attention to the wild card's techniques were as they simply surpassed her own ability in that respect. She took the wider outside path and as predicted, Windy and Stormfly cut her off on the inside.

Hiccup checked his point and as he did Janey acknowledged their valiant triumph coming to the comprehension that in reality, she was outmatched. He nodded in reply before focusing his sole attention to the trials of the tunnel, that of which spawned grids of penalty beams ahead. The pack of riders were still confident in their abilities entering the tunnel within the space of two seconds. Huxter and Harry lead picking a path that put them through the gaps but brought precarious manoeuvres into play that lost them time just on technique. However, as the others came to pass through they too were struck with unbalance and their rhythm upset. Windy yapped in surprise at the sudden change in flow as their smooth flight pattern became jagged as he had to break heavily to dodge a beam. The tough part wasn't in that beams were circling around the interior but more so keeping balance in correcting the approach vectors.

Harry Amos caught a lucky break zipping to the lead and rekindling the fire in Huxters eyes. Astrid was right on his tail not retreating at the chance to take a pass should the opportunity come. Hiccup allowed a short gap to fall between them as he exited the tunnel, Windy driving his wings hard to work back up to speed. As they did, Tenesha had found herself in fortune coasting up beside him on the inside pass.

'It looks like the activation of the obstacles have certainly thrown a spanner in the mix. The front runner Huxter has lost his advantage, Janey has fallen into the back of the train and now the Wild Cards have even been separated,' Craig narrated the events before them.

Felice however, hadn't lost her faith. 'Ahh, just you watch Craig. With the kind of performance those two riders have demonstrated in the past, I wouldn't be surprised if they have a few tricks up their sleeves.'

'You say that now; this is only the third lap. Whatever tricks they have in mind are going to burned up very quickly come the later stages of the race. The longer they're out there, the more tired both they and their dragons get,' Craig continued contrary to her beliefs.

With Tenesha jutted just out ahead, Hiccup checked on Windy to see how he was holding up. 'How are you going bud?'

A pale blue eye darted back to face him followed by an open mouth smile. 'That's what I like to see,' he snuck a peak back to see David who was gaining slow ground on them. 'Alright Windy we need to make ground to catch up to Astrid. You up for it?'

There were soft wisps of air emanating from his nose as the hot air reacted in the November cold. His eyes narrowed and locked on Stormfly's working form ahead as they entered the final arc before the sprint to the start line. Windy barked his affirmation and drove harder through the air cleanly passing Tenesha on the outside who through her transparent visor wore only surprise. The sudden acceleration was unprecedented, incomprehensible.

'That's what I'm talking about. Haha!' Hiccup cried out in triumph as the creeped alongside Stormfly's right.

'Nice of you to join us. Is he ok?' She nodded at the billows of steam pouring from Windy's nostrils.

'Just needs a minute. We won't have a many of those sprints left in the tank. What's your plan?' Hiccup exchanged their status whilst keeping an eye on the congesting barriers of the fourth lap.

'If they're smart, the back three will hopefully keep to themselves. I'd say hang behind these two, catch a breath and then take on Harry. If we can pass him in lap five that leaves the last two to deal with Huxter.' She conveyed the idea to welcome ears.

Hiccup nodded and together they returned to keeping their lines of flight sharp as they tailgated Harry whom had fallen behind again. 'Did you see that? Did you see that! Haha, that power and drive. Never before have we seen a dragon with such raw endurance. Still doubt me Craig?' Felice chuckled as her counterpart was wide eyed at the physical display of bewilderment.

'I sit corrected,' Craig turned to his tablet nearby and opened a browser with a search on the Sanctury database. 'Well I'll be… Windwalker. Part of the great sky dragon family, able to fly hundreds of miles at a time and if necessary, sleep in the air. Top speed, inconclusive? There you go folks, the Sanctuary can't even pin point a top speed for this guy.'

Coming out of the rise by the second stadium pass, Hiccup and Astrid watched as Harry drove his dragon into a dangerous line by Huxter. Together they squeezed by on top of one another in the narrow pathway through the berm. Astrid once again taking the forward position to Hiccup they tracked their path despite the risk of catastrophe in the channel. A breath of escaped as the exit came into view and all four dragons shot out towards the tunnel entry. Still Huxter and Harry remained on very personal turf leaving not but three metres at any giving time. The beams were active in the tunnel but as they dived into the tube Harry peeled away towards the edge where an opening presented itself and in a remarkable display of timing, Harry rode the outer tunnel like a spiral ducking through the openings without pause.

It opened a substantial gap between himself and Huxter which as predicted only fuelled his dormant rage. Briasler rolled sharply catching the pathway to victory and like flies to a picnic, Astrid and Hiccup followed keeping a tight space between them. Behind them, the others were getting caught up in the tunnel, a few of the beams finally triggering resulting in time penalties.

'It's just us now. We need to make this count!' Hiccup alerted Astrid to the failing waves of dragons behind them. The edge of their endurance was beginning to be met as their pace left a growing gap between them and the front runners.

'Easy girl, you've got this,' Astrid confided with Stormfly as she shook her crown of quills in focus.

From the box in the main stadium, Craig pointed out the clear division on the track. 'There. Janey, David and Tenesha are losing ground now, the strain of the course is catching up to them.'

'I suppose it's only a matter of time until our front runners drop their focus,' Felice continued watching how the four dragons continued their efficient pace through the U-bend of the fifth lap.'

Both Wild Cards searched tirelessly for an opening, anything they could exploit to gain the much-needed placement on Harry. But with his constant weaving in order to dodge both the obstacles and pick a path in front of Huxter, it was making it impossible to judge a clean route. They passed the second stadium once more falling into a tight placement along the narrow berm path only this time Huxter took the lower altitude. It only took Hiccup a second to realise what was happening but another second passed and it was already too late.

'Oh no. WATCH OUT!' He screamed ahead hoping by all the gods he heard.

Braisler pushed up in the air catching the attention of Harry's Nightmare, the strange angle and upward drive spooking his dragon. They rose sharply to avoid collision but in the narrow path there was no dodging either side without collision and as such, Harry hit the sky markers. Red lights flashed and blearing alarms sounded across the grounds alerting everyone to the foul.

'And there goes Harry hitting the skybox. I'm afraid that is the end of the race for him,' Craig informed over the speakers.

Felice had her tablet working the camera recordings. 'A clever but brutal tactic by Huxter Prince to use the narrow path to push Harry out of bounds. Since there was no contact the move is acceptable. Harrison Amos is disqualified. It's a shame, the third-year veteran goes down without the bang he was hoping for.'

'At least next year he'll be riding with the Rookery Runners so it's not a complete loss. Just disappointing,' Craig added.

It sent a shiver of fear down his spine to see how just like that, Huxter achieved what he failed to do so last year. Not giving it another moments thought, he pushed Windy to take advantage of the opening created by the attack leading Astrid into the leading positions. Huxter had a momentary lapse in concentration as he quickly realised the cost of his attack.

'No!' he shouted urging Braisler after them.

With sharp and calculated vision, Hiccup found the spiral path through the tunnel and aimed for the opening riding the tube to the end with no loss of speed. Astrid was right on his tail but a cursory look back didn't ease the uneasy feeling growing in his stomach. Huxter had done it, he'd achieved his goal which meant they were ripe for an attack. Passing through the final curve before the sprint, they maintained their velocity not wanting to give an edge for Huxter to exploit. Even as they zipped into the sixth lap, Braisler continued to make ground on the duo, feats that shouldn't have been possible for a Monstrous Nightmare, especially at this stage of the race.

For Hiccup, his careful eye found the anomaly and it only showered more of the icy fear down his spine. 'Somethings not right. He's done something to Brailser!' He informed Astrid who took the moment to catch a glimpse as they teetered around the U-bend.

Her expression paled as she spotted the irregularity. 'Look at the eyes and scales. He's been drugged!'

Hiccup checked again to find the colouration of the scales were faded from the rich gold they once were. 'Not just that, it's killing him!' He concluded readying to drop back. 'Take the lead Astrid. I'll take care of Huxter!'

'No. You know that won't help!' She pleaded back as their rivalry was sure to intervene.

'I have to try!' It was the last thing he said before dropping back alongside Huxter.

The rider's face was set in hard determination not leaving the path ahead to acknowledge Hiccup. 'Huxter! You need to stop this now!'

'Stay out of this fraud! This is my destiny!' He yelled back, the fury in his voice only drowning Hiccup's hopes further.

'Huxter don't be an idiot! You need to stop this or you're going to kill your dragon!' He countered earning a short glance his way.

'What would you know! You know nothing of this life! You're nothing but a mask! YOU ARE NOTHING!' He slammed his foot into Brailser's side pushing him further taking second position.

He's out of his mind. I can't let him do this. He may be a right asshole but that is an innocent dragon. I can't let him do this. Hiccup's thoughts thundered through his head mixed with the blood sweat and determination of new goal. He could still do this, he could still place where he needed to but he'd be damned if he couldn't save that dragon too.

Hiccup leant forward on his saddle. 'I'm sorry about this Windy. But we can't let him get away with this.'

Windy's expression was set hard and the steam pouring out of his nostrils was thicker; he was beginning to feel the strain. Still his wings carried them hard and fast after Huxter as they passed the second stadium. They would see that structure only one more time today, time enough to make a stand and break Huxter from his madness. He was at a loss on how to do that but try to his morals, he would try.

Astrid had her eye on him from up ahead as she entered the narrow path towards the tunnel. The ice in his spine tingled as the fresh memory of Harry's foul ran true. It was a foolish decision to take the path but if all else failed it was the only way to keep ahead of Huxter. He could feel the currents screamed across his visor as they arced around to the entry of the tunnel. There was no faulting on this path as they quickly found the sweet spot spiralling to the exit unopposed once more. In that distance Windy was level with the golden dragon and still he worked to gain that upper edge. Coming into the wide berm at the base of the track, Hiccup found his mark barrel rolling Windy over and scooping up the air to nudge them in front. He heard the scream, the roar of utter fury and yes, frustration. He knew what was to come would bare only pain, possibly leave scarring on the tissue of his mind. But what choice did he have?

The rocketed out of the curve with the final lap in sight when he felt a strange sensation as the air rocked around him and Windy dropped out to the side with his balance completely lost. They entered an aerial spin tumbling through the air like a great black rock when Windy somehow caught a draft and righted himself saving them from contact with the ground. He shot up with his gaze to find Huxter soaring after Astrid leaving at least a full second gap between them. At this stage in the game it was a marathon of distance to catch, a marathon he couldn't lose.

As the dragons skated the bottom arc into the sprint the crowd could only watch in gut wrenching shock as Braisler surged forth catching Windy by surprise who in a maniac attempt to evade the other dragon sent him into a precarious tumble that looked only to end in disaster. Windy had lost their lead and a substantial amount of time but still it stopped him not for he drove those Winds like it was the last time he would ever fly.

'This level of aggression, this rivalry between Huxter and the Windwalker has reached dangerous levels. The committee panel we can see are growing impatient with this kind of play, no doubt they'll want to have a word with Huxter after the race,' Craig commented seeing the panel set up on the far side of the track.

'We can only hope they play the course fair, the last thing we need today is another accident to happen,' Felice followed on.

Astrid could feel the slight hairs on the back of her neck stand on edge as the laboured sounds of breathing echoed from behind. She knew it was Huxter thus lending now time to lose her concentration on the path ahead. Stormfly banked hard catching the very inside edges of the U-bend but her execution was growing unsteady as the trials of the race were catching up. She too was aching, her hands burning with pain from gripping the handles, back strained under accommodating the shifts of balance and her legs also for stability. Stormfly took a slightly wider path for the incline past the second stadium, a path that opened up for Huxter on the inside but her line cut across taking the absolute inside track towards the tunnel. It was a risk but fared better than being trapped in the narrow row. Huxter for whatever reason took the bait and stayed on her tail not giving one inch to ease the pressure from behind.

She figured it was an attempt to force an error under pressure but a futile effort in her mind; they had trained for the mental game in the early days. The only thing that brought any great concern was Hiccup; if Huxter was on her tail than he was either behind or worse. Astrid shook her, he would make it, she had to trust in him to make and by the ancients had he proven his worth tenfold already. They slipped through the tunnel with ease and still Huxter played no attack, no deviation from his path. He was determined to stick right on her tail but for whatever reason she simply didn't have the capacity to conceive.

The final arc came around and for the first time that lap she cast a half glance back to see a dark streak that boosted her spirits high. 'Final sprint girl!' She cried out with her eyes locked on target.

It was an error, a tiny fatal error as her focus blinded her from reality. The reality that came to pass as Hiccup coasted in an intercepting pass on her left whilst screaming her name.

'ASTRID!' He cried but Windy's extreme velocity shot them right past.

The world seemed to slow, each detail infinitely sharp and acute to the senses. The eruption of cheers from the crowd were drowned by the thumping and the sound claws scraping on metal. His eyes never broke from Astrid even as they crossed the finish line and Windy twisted in the air latching onto the ground with all his remaining strength. Then it happened, a scene he had only scene recordings acted out from a new angle; Braisler ducked from underneath and pushed up, in that moment Stormfly caught sight and adjusted her angle to which Astrid realised what was happening. She reefed hard on the saddle grips to the side pulling Stormfly into the roll just as they had practised on the cliffs. Each heartbeat lasted a minute as the dragon curled up and slowly began her decent around Braislers rising form but like history had proven, the edge of Braisler's wing clipped Stormfly's claws destabilising the roll and throwing her out of control.

Hiccup felt his stomach, his heart, the entirety of his internal organs drop as the oncoming flailing wings of both dragons catapulted towards him. Their velocity carried them over the line followed by gravity bringing them to a hard impact against the steel platform. In a mad and uncoordinated reaction, Windy belted his wings pushing them into a clumsy roll across the cold platform but nonetheless to safety. Hiccup wasted no time disconnecting his harness from their toppled form and scrambled to his feet after Stormfly. The other riders were coming in slowly, each taking a moment for the scene before them to sink in. They watched from afar unwilling to move as shock took hold.

'Astrid!' The blue Nadder was resting with a wing tucked under her body and head resting against the platform.

He darted around her battered form finding Astrid half slung from her side; she was still attached by one stirrup and harness cable but seemingly unconscious for all he could tell. Hiccup gentle lifted her foot and detached the cable hoping to all the gods she was if anything at all, alive.

'Astrid?' he held her loosely in his arms.

All sense of location and time was forgotten and without hesitation he did the one thing they had yet to do in public. Hiccup removed his helmet and then with equal caution, slid hers off too. The visor was cracked and as her face was revealed letting her thick braid of hair fall, the ice returned at the sight of closed eyes and a nasty cut on her left cheek.

'Astrid? Astrid? Astrid! Come on, no no no, don't do this Astrid!' he called to her for consciousness but with each second passed, every painful feeling of terror grew.

But a slight twitch of her cheek muscles caught his eye and the flood of relief that ran through him made his arms feel weak holding her up. 'Ow,' she winced before the azure blue eyes met emerald green. 'Hiccup? What took you so long?'

He didn't reply, just scooped her closer into a tight hug letting the moment together draw out as long as they could. Astrid simply let her aching head rest against the leather pad on his shoulder, they were cold from the chilly air but comforting nonetheless. Cold, why did her skin feel so cold? Reality shot back as her wide-eyed expression snapped Hiccup into a state of concern.

'Helmets. Hiccup!' Just as she said that, a metal clunk caught their attention as a form staggered out from under the tangled mess of Braisler.

His eyes were alight with a mix of anger but also triumph as his brow creased but that smile, that damned smile he wore to gloat in their faces with. There was a shift in expression as he looked around to see the cascade of officials running towards the track. Carefully Hiccup rose to his feet helping up Astrid as she leant on his side for support. The dragons were coming around too, with Stormfly rattling her crown and wings as she slowly raised her head to the oncoming noise of people approaching. Windy too was limping his way over, the steam from his breathing creating a thick cloud as he sat in behind Hiccup and Astrid. Finally, Huxter returned his gaze to the duo, completely exposed and exhausted. He took a staggered step forward, his own fatigue wearing his muscles down. There was blood seeping from a would on his forehead but he seemed to pay it no mind as that triumphant expression returned.

'This it?' he slurred shaking his head to focus. 'These are the faces of those who have tried to ROB ME!' he bellowed adjusting his footing with heavy breathing. 'Freckles and Blondey?' He spluttered a cough, a small trail of blood mixed with saliva stringing out of it.

The duo grimaced at the sight. 'You lost hehehe, YOU LOST! I told you, you would,' he continued to ramble his gaze unfocused. 'You aren't better than me. Huh Blondey? YOU AREN'T BETTER THAN ME! I BEAT YOU!'

'Oh for Thor's sake Huxter enough!' Hiccup growled resting Astrid up against Stormfly. 'Look at you, look around you. Can you even hear the crowds? No? They are quiet Huxter. There is nothing to be celebrated here! You've brought only pain and shame to this competition!' Hiccup yelled back his anger rising beyond anything he recognised.

'NOOO!' Huxter lashed out with a right hook but in his current state he simply stumbled forward and collapsed to his knees. 'You are the problem. You shame this competition! YOU DIDN'T PLAY FAIR!' Huxter continued to cough.

Hiccup cast a glance back to Astrid and behind her, the officials and medical crews tending to the mess around them. He met eyes with a few of them and each one reacted in the same way, recognition, surprise, realisation. Finally his mind seemed to catch up to reality and the sheer gravity of what was transpiring, they were exposed, the veil torn away. That's when he remembered, beyond the quivering, fuming form of Huxter was the shivering and soft wines of his dragon.

Hiccup wasted no time tending to the dragon inspecting his scales. 'No. No! You stay away from him you fraud!'

Time was short, he had no idea what of state or how progressed the effects of the stimulants were in Braisler's system. He ducked over to the dragon's head; his eyes were open but locked onto nothing, they didn't recognise Hiccup's presence at all content with starring off into he distance with a slight twitch. The pupils were near straight-line and that added with the discolouration of his scales only concluded that this dragon was dying. Of what however, Hiccup had no idea.

'What did do to him?' he seethed at Huxter trying so hard to scream in his face.

'Get away from him!' Huxter growled in return.

'Huxter! What did you use on him!' At no reply and the growing trepidation from the crowds Hiccup stepped forward to face him head on. 'I'm trying to save your dragon damn it! What drug did you use!'

'What do you know about it!' He bellowed with eyes that bore the conflict of someone with extreme rage and fear.

'Tell me or he's going to die!' Hiccup enforced the point. 'Braisler will die, unless you tell me what you've put in him,' he gritted his teeth to keep a modicum of sanity.

There was something in his eyes, something that just cracked. 'Thyroxine!' He screamed out as the weight of the situation bared down upon him. 'I used Thyroxine,' he was reduced to trembling breaths.

Hiccup stepped back, in his mind he was reeling, positively horrified at what he just heard. 'In what realm would you EVER THINK OF USING THAT! He's not a horse Huxter, he's a dragon! Thyroxine may induce the effects but it is lethal to dragons!'

'You said you could save him,' the spiteful personality was back glaring at him through ice cold eyes. 'You said YOU COULD SAVE HIM!'

He remained silent against the outburst taking a moment to find something, something despite the grim future. 'You best start praying. To come back from this, it'll take a THORSFORESAKEN MIRACALE!'

He could have gone on, he wanted to tear the idiot apart but the other part of him, the rational, sensible part decided that was enough. He wasn't going to waste time with this disgrace to the dragon world any longer.

'What are you doing? Where are you going?!' Huxter called after him trying to get to his feet but the officials were quick to move in having validated that he wasn't a threat.

Hiccup fronted up to the officials caring less about the propriety of things. 'I need you to prep a team to move him out of here. Call Diane Mala, tell her what happened. Tell here we have a dragon with Thyroxine poisoning.'

'YOU!' Huxter shouted again capturing his attention. 'You think this is over?'

Both Hiccup and Astrid returned a heated glare. 'Looks over to me,' Astrid answered.

Huxter waved his hand around, swatting away the medical staff who were trying to help. 'Get off me,' he was on his feet now, limping towards them.

Windy bared his teeth and growled back halting him in his steps. 'No, no this isn't over. And this… this changes nothing. You may have won but your little friend here. She missed her chance,' he slowly turned his head towards Astrid with a devilish grin before those icy eyes settled back on Hiccup's smaller form. 'And the end of the day, you're still a faceless nobody. A fraud, who needs enhanced dragons to win. I earnt this place through hard training and resilience, not natural advantage! You two are just, faceless nobodies who are too afraid to show yourselves. Helmets or not, nobody knows who you really are and if they did no one would care anyway, they'd only care about your special dragons. Well guess what! The people know who I am, they know my name!'

Something about that little speech seemed to light a fire in his heart, a warm one that carried joy and for the first time since they landed, Hiccup smiled with a chuckle. 'What? What do you find so amusing?' Huxter was once again growing frustrated.

'Oh nothing,' Hiccup chuckled before his face grew a serious edge. 'Except that you managed to get just about every single bit of that wrong,' without another word he turned away.

'WHO ARE YOU!' Huxter shouted, the anger returned and his face blazing.

Hiccup rolled his eyes before settling back on Astrid with a short smile. 'Would you like to do the honours?' he offered only for her to hold up her hand to decline.

'Hey you're the one who won,' she teased with a grin to match.

In all the chaos, that reality had yet to sink in and it would take some time to do so still. 'Haaa, thanks,' he sassed lightly before facing the veteran directly, his expression set. 'My name is Harold Haddock the third. Son of mayor Steven and the late Valka Haddock, former head of the Dragon Sanctuary. This here is Astrid Hofferson, daughter of Walter and Angela Hofferson, both of whom are high ranking officers in the Berk Fire department specifically in the dragon division. See, we as our parents do too, share a deep passion for the protection and wellbeing of all dragons and thus we try to help as many as we can, whenever we can. The races for us, it's not about glory or the money. It's to help show other's that dragons are wonderful, magnificent creatures that bring people together. So whilst we as individuals may not have a great public spotlight shining upon us, our families are nationally known. That's who we are.'

The presentation…

Slowly but surely, the news travelled to every corner of the grounds that the wild cards had been revealed. For the time being, Astrid and Hiccup had managed to slip through the public eye donning their helmets one last time to the safety of the review panel rooms. The process was rigorous with much scrutiny being placed on Huxter Prince, his bruised and battered form confined to the infirmary. The verdict of his actions however were very stern in that he was not only disqualified for the finals but permanently banned from the Dragon Racing Leagues. The condition of Braisler at this point was uncertain with the last shred of news being in regard to his transfer to the Sanctuary medical centres.

Still, standing in the shadows of the presentation podium didn't seem to shake the tremble in his hands, nor ease his conscience on the matter recently passed. Despite all the hardships and complications that arose, the situation seemed to come out in a hand that was strong. As he stood there waiting, the aches and zips of pain zapping through his body were a fresh reminder of those physical trials. They had done it. Astrid and himself had actually achieved their goal. The Intermediate league was on the horizon and now all that awaited was more of the same hardships and trials of this season. Except they had solid idea of what they could expect, so instead of dealing with the unknown element, they could have some fun.

First things first however, they had to stay awake through the presentation ceremony. His hands were still shaking but then he felt the warms and smooth texture of skin; not his own slip into place around his fingers. The soft rustling of fabrics further broke the illusion as Astrid stood by him with a content smile.

'You know Hiccup. I… I really just want to say thank you. Thank you for all of this. Even if we hadn't made it, I'd still be happy, happy that I got the opportunity to do the thing I love. Happy that I got to do it with you,' her smile ducked as crimson tinted her cheeks.

Without warning, she leant down a little and pressed a soft kiss on his cheek thus making both their cheeks burn hot. 'Ahhh… um, ah. I ah. I, I really…'

'I know,' she laid to rest his unfocused thoughts. 'Come on, we survived the races, we can survive a presentation, right?'

…'And now, can I please welcome to the stage, two of the most prestigious and talented riders I have had the pleasure of witnessing in this competition. From the beginning of the season they've been turning heads and to be honest… well they make racing look easy. Ladies and Gentlemen, may I please introduce the Wild Cards,' Chairman Percy announced to the overlooking stadium.

The duo took that first step into the lime light, the short flight of stairs that opened into the view for the sizeable crowds whom had come to witness. Together they walked carefully towards Chairman Percy who wore a pride in his smile; Hiccup had always found his manner of conduct welcoming. The spokesperson for the formal presentations in all three Leagues, he seemed to always be able to recognise the values of the greater riders in the competition.

On their appearance, the crowds erupted in cheers and thunderous applause with their signs and poster boards being waved up and down. Upon the stage were the other four riders, helmets removed and clapping in acknowledgement of their prowess and behind them Mala wearing a huge grin beaming with pride. They nodded in return before looking up to face Chairman Percy through their tinted and cracked visors. This wasn't right; apart from the level of politeness being impeded, they had no reason to hide any longer. The officials had seen their faces, Huxter knew who they were so it would only be a matter of time anyway. Time enough to forward the revelation and greet the people with their true faces.

'Excuse me, chairman Percy, can we have just a moment please,' Hiccup requested receiving an honest nod.

He faced Astrid front on, their expressions hidden but both knew of what was looming. 'I think it's time.'

From behind the visor, Astrid was smiling; she knew it would come to pass, it was the deal they had made. 'I'm with you.'

Hiccup cast a half glance towards Mala whom had grown curious as to what they were up to but there was no mistaking her intuition as her expression grew wide upon realisation. Together they faced the audience front on and reach behind their heads. In a fluent, synchronised motion, they lifted the veil allowing light to shine on their bare skin. The crowd's volume rose tremendously and there were gasps and cries asking around at who they were. Immediately they looked to the front row where the rest of the gang were seated. Apart from Cami and Tom who were standing and cheering like animals, the others remained completely dumbstruck as all the stories finally lined up in a knockout revelation. Behind them he could see his father smiling back at him, his short but flame red beard unmistakeable amongst the masses.

They turned back to face Chairman Percy but Mala's surprised looked caught his eye. Hiccup grinned nervously only for her to resume a genuine smile with a short shake of her head. In her mind, she should have seen something like this coming but the almost complete absence of talk left her little time to form an idea upon.

Chairman Percy smiled back to them, his eyes were alight with recognition as there was no mistaking to whom was in his presence. 'Master Haddock. I must say this is a surprise to be sure, but a welcome one,' he held out his hand shook it firmly.

'Although, it makes perfect sense; you are your mother's son after all,' he turned to greet Astrid with equal pride. 'And, miss Astrid Hofferson is it?'

Astrid nodded in reply. 'Yes, I knew your uncle quite well. He was an old friend, the great 'Fearless Finn' we would call him. I must say, he would be exceptionally proud as are your parents I assume.'

'I can only guess, thank you,' she replied nodding in thanks.

'Oh no, thank you. Thank you for being outstanding role models in this competition,' he faced the audience stepping up to the lectern. 'Ladies and Gentlemen, what an exciting year we've had. In all my time here in the Dragon Racing Committee, there are few moments that reach the standards these fine young men and women have demonstrated. I remember when the great Humongous Hotshot wowed audiences far and wide with his exceptional talent but ladies and gentlemen. I think we may have new champions in the making here today.'

Astrid and Hiccup had joined the ranks of the others waiting in line as Percy greeting each one to the stage to receive their finalist honours. 'And now in recognition of our champions of the twenty fifteen, Preliminary league competition, I would like to invite our Wild Card riders to the front. Many of you would know of their families and the work they do to support the infrastructure of our great city. May I please officially introduce our Wild Card dragon riders to the world; Astrid Hofferson and Harold Haddock!'

The stands took to their feet in congratulations in a display of gratitude that was nonetheless overwhelming as Hiccup breathed deeply at the formal recognition they were receiving. The size, the masses were beyond anything he had known before cheering their names.

'I would like to congratulate them on not only exceeded everyone's expectations by setting new records on Preliminary A, Legger's Pass and setting the benchmark for Red Rock but for qualifying into the Intermediate as independent finalists,' Percy paused before the individual address. 'With the single lap record for Legger's Pass at one minute two point eight two (1.02,82). She rides the first of a new generation of racing Nadders and finalising with two hundred and one points. In second position, Astrid Hofferson!'

She idled up to Percy greeting with smile as she shook his hand and Mala wrapped the medal around her neck. 'I'm going to guess this was Hiccup's idea?' Mala quipped with a mischievous smile.

Astrid returned with a knowing look that spoke everything she needed to know. With a final acknowledgement to Percy, she stepped back into place with the others and awaited the inevitable.

'Thanks to her prestigious achievement, she will receive a fifteen thousand cash reward a choice to join any club she please should that be her wish and finally, donated from Championship League veteran herself and renewed to pristine condition. The riding gear of Barbara Bavross,' he indicated to the stairs and emerging from the dark, the strong woman with curled locks of wild raven hair appeared with a smile.

Astrid gasped as her idol joined her on stage followed by a large marked crate of her past riding gear. Barbara greeted her with an endearing smile, a perfect set of white teeth to follow as she shook Astrid's hand.

'I hope these will serve you well, as they have for me. Dragon rider,' she stepped behind her as the cameras continued to snap.

They returned to their places allowing for Chairman Percy to continue the last of his addresses. 'And of course. To our grand champion of the twenty fifteen Preliminary League competition. Setting the benchmark of three minutes twelve point eight one (3.12,81) for Red Rock and ravaging Hugh Mungus' time with two minutes twenty-seven point two zero (2.27.20) on Preliminary A. He's something of a prodigy riding until recently, an undiscovered species that has been catching the eye of almost every club in the league; the Windwalker. Finalising on two Hundred and three points, the champion of the Preliminary League, Harold Haddock!'

The stands once again rose to their feet in thunderous applause as Hiccup stepped forth. Mala was beaming back, the pride in her smile unforgettable as she passed on his trophy; a quaint design but very prestige in the level of detail in its engravings. The plaque where his name would be remained blank for the moment until they had time properly mark it in his honour. He eagerly shook Percy's hand but when Mala extended hers he shook his head and wrapped both arms around her to everyone's surprise.

'Thank you. We never would have done it without you,' he said with great gratitude.

Mala simply returned a warming grin. 'Hiccup. This achievement goes to you and your dragons. You are the ones racing not me. All I did was made sure that you ate, that you did your homework and pointed you in the right direction. Take it, this is your achievement,' she glanced to both Astrid and Hiccup.

'In honour of this prestigious achievement, Harold will receive a full fifty thousand cash reward complete with new gear tailored to his specifications as well as the choice to any club of his choosing should he take that path,' Percy paused for a second glancing a soft exchange between Hiccup and Astrid. 'Though something tells me they already have a plan in mind. I would now like to invite Harold to exchange a few words.'

Hiccup snapped his head to Percy, his face washed clean of colour and the nervous chill running down his spine. 'Sp… speech? Ahhh, I don't have. I don't have anything planned.'

Percy stepped off the lectern and gestured the invitation. 'It doesn't have to be an elaborate thing, just something… personal. Think, what might your father say?'

That didn't help for one moment, his father was a natural public speaker but then again, what choice did he have? 'Ahh, Hi. Welcome,' tense, freaking tense and awkward as the silence echoed across the stands.

Both Mala and Astrid were holding in sniggers, their personal connection hard to look past but Percy remained vigilant, he simply smiled with a face of trust. 'Ok, look. I'm not great at speeches, especially off the top of my head so I'll try and keep this short. Um... As you now know, my name is Harold Haddock, the third if you want to be formal but ahh, most people know me as Hiccup,' that earnt a short wave of from the crowd which he suspected thus bringing a smile to his face. 'Great name I know, but it's not the worst. With me today is Astrid Hofferson, my fellow partner in crime.'

She stepped forth acknowledging the crowds with a nod. 'Many of you will know whom our parents are, which is why today…' he paused as his mind rolled over what he could say.

The past events moved like such a blur but there was one thing that was standing out in his mind; the absent member of their company and his fruitless spout of entitlement. 'I want to talk about legacy. Just a quick thing but it'll make sense. Our families have taken roles that help support the infrastructure and safety of Berk, both the city and our not so little pile of wet rocks we call home. Amongst it all we help mediate the relation between us and the magnificent creatures native to our home, be it a fire has broken out or that rampaging Rumblehorn from a few years back,' Hiccup continued.

'As for us, well it all started with a dream, a dream to continue the work of our parents whether it be protecting the city from fire or in my case, my mother's work in studying, protecting and advancing our knowledge of dragons in any way possible. Which is why I can also thank my mother for Windy, the Windwalker whom has been under specialised care…'

He held off on for the moment. The spark in his mind was leading him to extremely dangerous places, places that would spell chaos and repercussion and were so very exciting. What could they do now? The secret was out, they knew his face, they knew his name. Why not tell them what he stands for too?

'Who has been under specialised care for over thirteen years,' he revealed and in a wave of astonishment, the hum of the crowd grew.

'What are you doing?' Astrid dashed to him and whispered to him with a look of concern.

Mala too was close by but for some strange reason, her mind was edging on the side of trust; it was as if, she wanted him to continue. 'Wait Astrid. What's on your mind?'

'I have an idea,' he answered with half a conviction. 'But it's probably stupid.'

'What you just said was stupid,' Astrid remarked.

It was then his eyes came alive as a plan forged in his mind; a story of change. 'Then something crazy.'

He looked past her shoulder to catch a glimpse of the other riders who was gaping in disbelief before facing the crowd once more. 'My mother found Windy in May of two thousand and two, alone and injured in the woods. She brought him home to care for until he regained his strength. What we did not anticipate was a bond to forge between us so quickly; in such a way that we couldn't have released him if ever wanted to. We became his new family and with a loyalty unlike anything we have ever seen before he's stayed by our side unwilling to return to the wild and be with his kind. Along the way we learnt so many unfathomable things about that dragon that never would have been possible in the Sanctuary. Our research was forwarded at an exponential rate and through the races we have been able to witness and study the physical potential of a great sky dragon. A dragon whom naturally would live most of their life in the sky but still, this one still returned home, to his family. That's why we are here, to continue the legacy of our family's exploration into the dragon world.'

It was a nice finish but considering the recent events, there was one last thing; a bit of icing to the cake. 'So whilst our former competitor Huxter Prince may ride dragons. We live with ours.'

To Be Continued in No More Secrets

Special thanks to Xythisdi1987 for being a top-quality bloke. He's volunteered time to edit and believe me, rereading a 20k doc just after writing it. Not too high on the hedonistic charts. So thank you classy dragonite.

Crisps, fries and chips. Mate. They're all chips here…

So this is technically the halfway mark. I'm still sticking to the 19 chapter plan for now but things are looking to get really more packed so it might change. Hopefully not 20k packed but there is a lot to come. See, the Pre-League was just the warm up.

This is where the fun begins…

In the meantime. New HTTYD THW images – designs of the characters in scaly suits matching their dragons :O. I'm really getting vibes from the books with the fire suits they wore – Considering Drago's cape was fireproof, I have a strong feeling these suits are too. They look badass.

Tuffnut on the other hand… No face hair no problem (binds dreadlocks under chin) Beard level 100.

Editor's Note:

Oh, man, one hell of a chapter there. First things first, thanks Smoe for allowing me to read through this document and give some helpful advice, and as well as fix some spelling errors. You really do have a natural talent in writing like this. And, secondly, I just gotta say, thank you all for reading this chapter. While I don't have a completely direct influence on the story, I can say that I could very well give some ideas for storyline, even if the idea for the story is already planned out.

Yes, Xythisdi1987 is what I've called myself. Long story behind that, but if you want to see some of the stuff I make, you can check me out on YouTube. Just search Xythisdi1987 in YouTube and you should be able to find some HTTYD theories and music videos.

And, another thing, the outro you'll find over there, completely inspired by how Smoe ends his wording. Dragonites, stay classy. That's my outro.

Anyway, thanks again for reading. I'll see you in the skies dragonites :D

~Xy