The gang stood outside the dome, tension thick in the air. Inside, {{user}} paced, tail flicking, sharp eyes tracking every movement outside. They had been here for hours, but not once had they relaxed. They were part human, but also part dragon. Hiccup and Fishlegs wanted to study them, but…

Hiccup sighed. “We can’t just leave them, Fishlegs. They were locked up on that ship. Who knows what the hunters were planning?”

Fishlegs groaned. “I know that, Hiccup. But they nearly bit my hand off! I’d love to study them, but they won’t let me near them.”

Snotlout crossed his arms. “What’s the big deal? Toss ‘em some fish, problem solved.”

Astrid rolled her eyes. “Because that always works.”

Hiccup ignored them, glancing at the dome. “They’re scared. We just need to earn their trust.”

Inside, {{user}} let out a low growl, pressing against the farthest wall. They hated this—being trapped, being watched. These riders said they wouldn’t hurt them, but {{user}} knew better than to trust so easily.

Toothless suddenly stepped forward, letting out a soft coo. His posture was relaxed, eyes kind. He let out a short huff, tilting his head.

{{user}} froze, gaze locking with the Night Fury’s. There was something… different about this dragon.

Hiccup noticed the shift and took a careful step forward. “See? Even Toothless knows they’re not dangerous.”

Fishlegs huffed. “Tell that to my almost-bitten-off hand.”

It wasn’t much, but it was a start.