Ever since Skullcrusher defeated Drago Bludvist followed closely by his retirement, reporters across the country were trying to piece everything together. One reporter was looking at the video of Skullcrusher defeating Drago.

"I can't believe we won't see him in action again," he said.

"How about you get back to work fanboy," the female chief editor suggested.

"Yes, ma'am," he said. "Skullcrusher, real name Stoick Haddock, started work as a hero during the Metahuman Crisis in walking alongside other heroes such as Forge and Technora to bring the world to piece. He and his fellow heroes assisted in the formation of the Metahuman Registration Act and then soon became known as the world's greatest hero."

"No, no, no stop!" the chief yelled. "Our readers are not looking for the same run-of-the-mill fluff that they can get anywhere else. We need something new, a scoop that'll blow their minds! We're already the last ones to create a special issue of Skullcrusher's retirement."

"His acquaintances haven't exactly been forthcoming with the press," a journalist pointed out.

"Are you a journalist or not? What do you have on that villain he fought in his last battle?"

"The police are releasing any information about, all I know is that he is the mastermind behind the League of Villains."

"The story won't just fall in your lap! You have to get out there and shake it down!"

"Am I interrupting?" said a voice. They looked up and saw leaning against the doorway was a handsome black-haired man wearing a pair of glasses. "Is really not a good look on you, chief. Now come on and give us a smile."

"Well, look who's here," the chief smiled. "Hey, Cam.

"Long time no see. Sounds like you're looking for a story."

Cam then took the chief and a few journalists to the chief's office. Once there he played a clip of Skullcrusher sending his warning out to all the villains.

"Quite a statement," said Cam as he paused the video. "But what do you suppose he meant by it?"

"I figured it was a warning, you know to the other villains," said the chief. "I've got your boss, and now I'm after you."

"If that was the case, wouldn't he have said it differently? 'You bastards are next on my list!' Or something among those lines?"

"What are you suggesting here?" the chief asked curiously.

"The moment he retired, he was then given a job as chief security of Berk Academy," said Cam. "It's now clear to every one of us that he was aware that he would be unable to maintain his position as a hero. His best friend works at Berk Academy and the moment he retires he says, 'Now it's your turn'."

The chief looked up. "So you think…?"

"That's right," Cam nodded. "He has been accessing the next generation of Berk students, hoping that he can find a successor among them considering how he phrased his message I believe he's already selected one."

The chief smiled. "That's why you're here, you have an idea who it might be."

"At first I thought that it was one of Berk's Big Three third-year Macario Fade, he pays regular visits to the agency run by Sir Nighteye, Skullcrusher's former sidekick."

"You're right, maybe he's our guy."

"However, it appears that Skullcrusher and Sir Nighteye have parted ways, they no longer seem to be in contact with one another."

"The big misdirection."

"Passable, but I've actually been kicking around another theory. Given his relationship with Forge, I did a bit of digging and discovered that Forge has been spending a lot of time with Class 1-A."

"Interesting… you think Skullcrusher has chosen one of them to be his successor. If so it's more than likely it's his son, he is in the same classroom."

"Possibly, but there's no way to confirm that especially given with all the League of Villain attacks has left Berk pretty stoked. Ever since Skullcrusher became head of security, he has been tightening security, and a freelance journalist like myself will have quite a difficult time gaining entrance to the campus."

"Yeah, yeah, I get it," said the chief. "We'll get you access to the school and in return…"

"And in return, provide your paper with an exclusive scoop. For a substantial fee, of course."

A few days later, Class 1-A got some startling news from Eret.

"A newspaper?" they frowned.

"Yeah, they want to do a feature on your class for some reason," said Eret.

"Kinda surprising, huh?" said Clueless.

"Not really," said Wartihog.

"Yeah, I mean the Thawfest Festival was on TV," said Sven.

"We've got a look super cute in case they want to take a picture," said Helga excitedly.

"For sure," Ruffnut nodded.

"I think you will be just fine, Helga," said Ingrid.

"That's enough!" said Eret.

"Yes, sir," they all said.

"It's nothing too exciting, the article is about how you're settling in and adjusting to dorm life and that kind of thing," Eret explained. "Principal Dustin thought it would be a good idea, this will show your parents and guardians that you're happy here and set a few minds at ease."

"Newscasters are usually hot, this could be awesome," Agnar whispered.

"Right, he said it was for paper," said Tuffnut.

"If she wants to write an article about my sticky balls I'll give her an all-access pass," said Agnar drooling with the prospect. "I'll let her—"

Eret must've heard and because a few seconds later his scarf wrapped around Agnar. "I expect you all to be on your best behaviour today."

"Don't worry on my account, Mr Eret," said a voice and Cam appeared around the corner. "I want to get a feel for what dorm life is really like so there's no reason for them to act any differently from normal."

"I didn't say you could come in yet," said Eret.

"I was told that I had from 8 AM to 6 PM, so unless my watch is wrong," Cam smiled pointing at his watch.

Eret narrowed his eyes and released Agnar.

Cam then looked at everyone. "Hello, everyone. My name is Cam Snapper, I'm looking forward to learn more about all."

"Nice to meet you," said everyone.

"Now, as I said, you don't have to do anything special. Just go about your day exactly as you normally would, the camera will do most of the work. I might ask an occasional question or two, and I hope you'll answer."

He then smiled at them.

"He's got such a nice smile," said Ruffnut.

"That is so not a woman," said Agnar looking extremely disappointed.

"What to do?" Olaf sighed. "My sparkling personality will no doubt draw the camera like a moth to flame."

"Yeah, but undoubtedly," said Calder rolling his eyes.

Cam then looked at Eret. "Principal Dustin has probably already spoken to about this, but I want to make sure that you don't interfere in any way, no offence."

Eret raised his hand. "I understand, if you need anything just let me know."

"I'm sure I'm in very capable. This is Class 1-A, after all. Every student hears a promising hero candidate."

Eret looked at Hiccup. "Hiccup, if there's a problem let me know immediately. Got it?"

Hiccup nodded. "Don't worry, I'll come and get you there is an issue."

"Thanks," said Cam and looked at everyone. "So what would you normally be doing this time of day?"

"Uh, having breakfast," said Hiccup.

"Then just pretend that I'm not here and enjoy yourselves," Cam smiled.

Eret looked at him suspiciously. 'I can tell this report is up to something. Doesn't feel criminal though, I'll leave him to it for now.'

So for the rest of the day, Cam followed Class 1-A around taking photos of them at the door more when they were in class. As he did this, he began collecting data on all the students to find the right candidate that Skullcrusher had chosen for his successor.

He was already aware of all their names and powers, so now it came down to their personalities and skill. He watched as the class started to make its way back to the dorm.

"I can now the roster down if I think about who Skullcrusher would consider worthy for his mantle. The most likely group are the seven who made it to the finals in the Thawfest Festival, I'll start my investigation by looking at them. Although I have a pretty good idea who it would be, it's simple really.

Snotlout Jorgenson abilities are certainly on par with those of pro heroes, but his father is Hellfire, and that man certainly would not want his son to surpass him. Additionally, there is also his personality. Ranger Iceburn is another possibility, but he's not as emotional and outgoing as Skullcrusher. Of course, there's the third place when Ragnar Keatson and Speedfist Boilson or maybe Dogsbreath Barfson or Ruffnut Thorston."

He then looked out the window and saw Hiccup waiting outside for someone. "No, I trust my instincts they've got and the many scoops. Hiccup Haddock is his son, and he was the second-place winner in the Thawfest Festival."

Hiccup was standing out on the porch waiting for his father, who had just arrived. He was with carrying a bag of food in one and an umbrella in the other.

"Hello, son," he said.

"Hey, Dad," Hiccup smiled.

Cam just watched them. "My gut says that he is the one, he will be the next Symbol of Peace."

"What have you been out to in this rain?" Hiccup asked as Stoick made his way onto the porch.

"Nothing much, just got back, regular checkups at the hospital. I was starving afterwards, so I stopped to grab a bite, which turned into a whole thing."

Hiccup suspected that it had something to do this you bag of food and the umbrella, which his father had never used before. Stoick then pulled out a chocolate muffin and took a bite out of it.

"So, I brought the extra food for you and your class," he said, handing him the bag.

"Always thinking of others, aren't you?" said Hiccup shaking his head. "But how popular you are surprised you're not mobbed everywhere you go. As the number one hero, you brought hope and smiles to so many people's lives. Protecting citizens and fighting evil villains, as the Symbol of Peace."

Stoick then placed a hand on his shoulder. "Now it's your turn, you and the rest of your class."

Hiccup nodded, "Right."

"I'm taking personal charge of your training regiment starting tomorrow," Stoick warned.

"Yes, I'm ready," said Hiccup.

Stoick nodded and made his way to the teachers' dormitory.

Cam then stepped onto the porch. "Getting late." He then looked at Hiccup. "Squeezing in one last workout?

"Oh, yes," Hiccup nodded.

Cam then sniffed the back. "Something smells good."

Hiccup what to the bag and then to him. "Once something?"

"Yes, please."

They sat down on the porch and Hiccup handed Cam a chocolate muffin. As the sat there eating Cam mentioned that he was a fan of his father.

"So you're a big fan of my dad?" said Hiccup.

"Anyone my age who says they aren't is totally lying, that all the criminals," Cam smiled. "I've never seen anyone so cool or so powerful. Do you know about the bombing that took place at an industrial complex 16 years ago?"

"Yeah, of course, I do," said Hiccup. "Human extremists formed a facility that was assisting metahumans. It was terrible, but my father was able to rescue 24 people for working there when the explosion went off."

"My dad was one of them," said Cam. "Your father saved my father's life. The blaze was so bad that even the rescue squads couldn't get close and yet… there he was. I turned my camera on without thinking of the picture I took ended up in the paper. It just seemed like a miracle that my father was rescued, seeing Skullcrusher that night brought a spark to my life, one that I still carry with me."

"Yeah, I get what you mean," Hiccup nodded.

"When he was retiring I was completely shocked," said Cam looking up at the sky. "What will happen to our superhuman society in the future? Will we be okay?"

Hiccup knew the feeling. 'I understand, people are starting to worry about what happens next. There's a feeling of unease that starting to permeate our world, this reporter feels it. I have to work harder, to fill the gap my father left behind the best I can.'

"Hiccup," said Cam.

"Yes," said Hiccup.

"We still have hope," said Cam and then he pulled out a photograph which showed Hiccup and Stoick together. "It's your turn."

Hiccup's eyes widened, Cam could have only taken a picture a few seconds ago, and he can see a camera on him. "A picture, but you don't have your camera on you and how you print it?"

Cam smiled, handing him the photo. "It turns out my power is quite a handy wonder how we work in journalism."

He then held out his palm and then suddenly, a camera lens appeared sprouted out of it. Then suddenly more camera lens appeared on his left forearm and on his right leg, one even appeared on his left cheek. "I can reduce them anywhere, and then my body can print out pictures from my chest."

He then retracted the lenses and rose to his feet. "Everyone heard Skullcrusher's last words after his fight with Drago Bludvist. And I think that he was saying that to you. You may be Skullcrusher's son, but at first, I wasn't entirely certain he was referring to you. However, every single incident that occurred here in Berk you appear to be right in the centre of it. I also spoke with young Gustav at the Pussycat Agency."

Hiccup stared at him. "Talk to him?"

"That one my suspicions are truly confirmed. Hiccup, I believe that your Skullcrusher's successor, what you think about that?"

"Well… the thing is…" said Hiccup awkwardly.

"You're not a very good liar, are you?" Cam chuckled. "That's good, heroes speak the truth."

"Everyone dinner is ready, please hurry before it gets cold," said Jeeves.

"Let's get going Astrid," said Heather as she rose to her feet.

"I'm going to check on Hiccup, he was meeting his dad," said Astrid and made her way to the window. When she got to the window, she saw Hiccup and Cam talking with one another. "I wonder what they're talking about?"

Hiccup was looking at Cam nervously. "It's just that—"

"You don't have to worry kid, I'm not writing expose unify did have that evidence," Cam assured him. "To be honest, I should probably be apologising to you, you see I was never planning on making a report on dorm life. I apologise, but I just had to know that there's still light in this world."

Hiccup stared at him. "Mr Snap…"

"I feel better after our conversation here, and now I can encourage others," Cam smiled as he looked up at the sky. "I won't be lying when I say there's still hope in the world, even if Skullcrusher had retired." He then held out his hand towards him. "I'm sorry if I caused any stress, but thank you."

"Sure," said Hiccup shaking his hand.

"One more thing," he said and then pulled Hiccup in towards him and took a photo."

Astrid blinked. "That's weird."

Cam then began walking off. "I'll cherish this picture, I'll keep it under wraps until later. When I publish my book about you, I think I've even settled on a good title… When the New Symbol of Peace Was Young? What do you think?"

"I'll try my best, and I will live up to that name."

"I'm sure you will… hero," Cam smiled.

"Thanks!" Hiccup waved.

Unbeknownst to them Eret had been watching from a nearby window, he didn't hear their conversation, but he could tell that there was no malicious intent coming from the reporter.

'It was the end of the time that Mr Snap had been allotted, so Cam left without telling the rest of my class goodbye. After hearing what he had to say, I once again felt just how bigger responsibility that I had inherited, but even so…'

Astrid then opened the door. "Hiccup, are you coming in for dinner?"

"Sorry, I'm coming," said Hiccup as he made his way to the door.

"By the way more was that reported talking to you about?" Astrid asked curiously.

"Oh, he was just wishing me good luck," Hiccup smiled. Astrid raised an eyebrow, no doubt thinking there was more to it but decided not to push it and looked down at the bag. "What you got there?"

"Just some snacks my dad got everyone earlier," said Hiccup.

"What kind of snacks?"

"I think they're mostly chocolate muffins."

"Seriously? Well, let's get them on the table."

With that, the two of them into the dormitory.

The next day Cam made his way to the new station to give his report.

"There is my favourite reporter," said the chief excitedly. "So spill, did you find who Skullcrusher's successor is going to be."

Cam just smiled at them at her enthusiasm, it was a shame that wasn't able to tell her the truth.

"Apologies, it turns out I jumped the long conclusion," he said.

"So it was a waste of time?" the chief groaned fiercely. "Do you have any idea how much begging I had to do to get you permission to go on campus?"

"I'm really sorry about it chief, I know this is a makeup for it, but I didn't come back empty-handed," he said as he reached into his jacket pocket. He then pulled out a photo of Stoick eating a chocolate muffin. "See here's Skullcrusher buying and eating a chocolate muffin."

The chief's eyes widened as she immediately took the picture. "Not exactly the big scoop I was hoping for, but we are the only ones with this kind of photo."

"Much obliged," said Cam and he can only imagine how embarrassed Skullcrusher would be when he saw the picture. 'So sorry about that Skullcrusher.'

Late at night, Twice was taking Grimmel the Ghastly to the hideout of the League of Villains.

'…the vague sense of unease on Skullcrusher's retirement grew stronger. Soon it would manifest in ways we could not imagine and become something truly terrifying.'