It was a quiet day in Berk, well, as quiet as it gets in a village full of Vikings and dragons. Hiccup, the village chieftain and famed Dragon Trainer, found himself in his usual spot near the edge of town. Only this time, he wasn't training dragons. Instead, he was brooding, something very uncharacteristic for the usually jovial Hiccup. There was a deep sense of frustration, an underlying feeling of being misunderstood. Hiccup sensed a budding disdain, a hatred not towards his beloved dragons but towards his human peers. Odd indeed, for Hiccup who've always been an advocate of peace and understanding.

Underneath this seemingly cheery visage, however, a storm was brewing. Ever since his father's death and his ascension as the village chief, things have become progressively overwhelming. Added to the constant requests, expectations and the pressure of leadership, everyone was always looking at him for guidance and answers. More than ever, he felt a widening gap between himself and the others. This created an unusual sense of isolation, even when surrounded by his tribe.

Chapter 2: The Confession

In the heart of the Dragon's Edge, Hiccup poured out his feelings to Toothless, his silent confidant. The Night Fury looked at him with understanding eyes, gently nudging him for reassurance. It was through Toothless that Hiccup learned to understand dragons. Toothless represented everything that Hiccup loved and trusted, a stark contrast to the Vikings he found himself increasingly at odds with.

"Do you ever feel like you don't belong, Toothless?" Hiccup sighed, looking out into the distant sea. "I'm a Viking Chief who can't abide by his own people. What does that make me?�He paused, giving a sad chuckle. "I guess you and me both are misfits, huh?"

Chapter 3: Turning Inwards

The more Hiccup grappled with his feelings, the more he began distancing himself from his tribe and his friends. His interactions became mechanical; he was there but not really. He focused more on his duties, diverting his energies towards training dragons and innovating dragon-friendly technologies. The very essence that made Berk special was now his recluse, his escape.

Eventually, his friends began to notice the change. Astrid, his stalwart companion, tried to reach out, but Hiccup kept to himself, as if wary of sharing his feelings. He took comfort in his solitude, training dragons, forging new paths for them. He found his peace amongst them, far away from the hustle and expectant eyes of the village.

Chapter 4: The Realization And Step Forward

It wasn't until a crisis struck Berk and Hiccup's leadership was needed more than ever, he realized his value, his place amongst his people. Despite his feelings, he needed to be there for his tribe, for his dragons. It was a hard swallow, a bitter pill to accept, but being a leader meant sacrifices. He didn't have to like his people, but he had to do his best for them.

With newfound resolve, Hiccup stepped up, using his dislike for others as a motivation to improve himself, the village and cohabitation with dragons. He focused on solving problems, on building bridges rather than walls. He might not like his tribe sometimes, but he sure did respect and value them. After all, they were his responsibility, his home.

Questions and Answers

1. Does Hiccup truly hate everyone in Berk?
Though he does entertain feelings of isolation and frustration, Hiccup doesn't hate everyone. His feelings stem from the pressures of leadership and misunderstanding.

2. Why does Hiccup confide in Toothless?
Toothless is his best friend and closest confidant. He is a symbol of understanding and trust for Hiccup, someone who doesn't expect or demand anything from him.

3. How does he manage his feelings?
Hiccup uses his frustrations as motivation to improve himself and Berk, fostering a positive atmosphere for both Vikings and dragons, instead of wallowing in his displeasure.

Reference

This fanfiction is inspired by the original "How to Train Your Dragon" series by Cressida Cowell and its film adaptation by DreamWorks Animation.

Explore your companion in WeMate