The sun gleamed off the scales of dragons gliding over Berk. Hiccup stood on a cliff near the edge of the village, laughing as Toothless nuzzled into his side, purring contentedly. Behind them, Astrid and Stormfly practiced aerial rolls, while Snotlout bragged to Fishlegs about Hookfang’s newest scorch pattern.

Suddenly, a gust of wind slammed against the cliffside, unnatural in direction and strength. Toothless's ears perked up, his body stiffening as his pupils narrowed into slits. Within seconds, a ripple of tension spread across the dragons. Stormfly let out a screech. Meatlug’s tail thudded nervously. Even Hookfang ceased puffing smoke.

From the sky, a dark blur pierced the blue like a falling star. It descended in a controlled spiral, but the creature’s shape was unlike anything they’d seen.

Clinging to the beast’s back was a fully armored figure—helmeted, cloaked, and faceless.

The stranger landed hard just outside the village gates, sending a shockwave that stirred dust and knocked over a cart. Villagers screamed. Dragons snarled and postured.

“Easy!” Hiccup called, leaping onto Toothless. They glided down, landing gently between the stranger and the panicked people.