Written by Jim Cooper
Transcribed by Valkyrie the Archer, NotsospecialK, and AvannaK
EXT. BERK - DAY
We look out over the ocean to Berk on a sunny clear day.
HICCUP (V.O.)
Berk is a small island in the middle of nowhere.
INT. HICCUP'S BEDROOM - SAME TIME
Hiccup is in his bedroom, sketching Toothless with a quill and ink. He re-dips his quill into the ink pot, only to find he is out of ink.
HICCUP (V.O.)
(continuing)
So when we get a taste of something new...
EXT. DOCKS - SAME TIME
Bucket sits in a rowboat not far offshore. He spots a ship coming in.
BUCKET
Trader Johann is here. Trader Johann!
Bucket waves excitedly at the passing ship, capsizing his rowboat in the process.
HICCUP (V.O.)
(continuing)
We tend to go a little overboard.
EXT. DOCKS - SAME TIME
The ship pulls in as scores of excited vikings approach and line up outside the vessel.
HICCUP (V.O.)
Unfortunately new isn't always good.
Bucket bounces gleefully as a ramp is lowered to board the ship. On the other end of the ramp is trader Johann.
TRADER JOHANN
Ah, Berk, my favorite of all the islands I travel to.
BUCKET
Where have you been this time trader Johann?
Bucket boards the ship.
TRADER JOHANN
Oh Bucket, the things I've seen, the people I've met! I'd need a week to regale you, but alas, we have limited time to conduct our business together.
(to the waiting vikings)
Whatever it is you're looking for I can assure you you'll find it here!
The vikings board the ship, spreading out to explore the vast merchandise on offer.
SNOTLOUT
It's all mine. I call dibs on everything.
TRADER JOHANN
I've got food of all sorts, spices, exotic animals...
Tuffnut spots a bag squirming on a shelf.
TUFFNUT
Is that moving? Does that one move?
Spikes burst through the bag, startling Tuffnut.
TRADER JOHANN (O.S.)
(continuing)
Works of art, jewelery, not to mention knowledge.
Gobber plays with some jingle-bells. Fishlegs approaches trader Johann with a tiny leather bound book.
FISHLEGS
Trader Johann, is this your only book on botany?
TRADER JOHANN
Yes Mr. Fishlegs, why it was given to me by the author himself.
FISHLEGS
Would you take this necklace? It's made from baby dragons teeth.
TRADER JOHANN
Fair enough Mr. Fishlegs.
Trader Johann accepts the necklace and disappears off screen. Snotlout wanders pasts Fishlegs with a mirror in hand.
SNOTLOUT
Oooh, I'm even better looking than I thought.
Astrid tests out a mace by tossing in in her hand. Behind her Gobber moans in ecstasy as he rubs a piece of purple fabric against his face.
ASTRID
You okay there Gobber?
GOBBER
I'm better than okay, I'm in heaven!
Hiccup pops up from out of view holder a clay pot.
TRADER JOHANN
Oh, that's pure squid ink Hiccup. Wrestled from the colossal squid of the northern waters.
Trader Johann rubs his shoulder. Hiccup pulls a spyglass from his vest pocket.
HICCUP
Well how about this spyglass? You know I made it myself.
Trader Johann takes the spyglass and examines it.
TRADER JOHANN
I know. You've given me five just like it. Unfortunately I've only got the two eyes. What else have you got?
Trader Johann hands Hiccup the spyglass and rubs his shoulder again.
HICCUP
What do you think of this winch? Eh? It will help you pull up your gangplank.
Hiccup pulls a winch out of his vest pocket and passes it to trader Johann.
TRADER JOHANN
A welcome tool for a working man's ailing shoulder. Consider it done.
Grunting, Stoick brandishes and slashes about with a sword.
HICCUP
(sarcastic)
Wow. Another sword, just what we need.
STOICK
If you must know it's not for me. I'm heading off to my yearly meeting with the chief of the Shivering Shores. The last man who showed up without a gift, left without a head.
The the head off one of the ships wooden carves topples over, clearly lopped off by Stoick as he was testing the sword. Stoick turns to face trader Johann.
STOICK
(continuing)
Johann! What will you take in trade?
TRADER JOHANN
Stoick! It is but your good graces I desire when my amble ship passes through Berk.
STOICK
You'll always be welcome on our shores.
Stoick turns and walks to his dragon who is waiting on the docks beside the boat.
STOICK
(continuing; to Hiccup)
I'll be back in five days. What am I saying? I'll be back in two thanks to Thornado.
Stoick mounts Thornado, who lets out a powerful blast of air right at Hiccup. Hiccup moves out of the way.
HICCUP
Oh, you finally named him? Thornado, huh?
Stoick struggles as Thornado bucks and shakes.
STOICK
That's right. Because he has the power of Thor and the ferocity of a tornado! And besides, it's the only thing he'll answer to. Turns out he can be quite stubborn!
HICCUP
(sarcastic)
I can't imagine where he gets that from.
STOICK
Up Thornado.
Thornado calms down and takes of into the air with a roar. Trader Johann watches from his ship.
TRADER JOHANN
Ah, men riding dragons. What a magnificent sight.
MILDEW (O.S.)
Johann!
Trader Johann turns around to greet Mildew, who has apparently just arrived.
TRADER JOHANN
Mildew!
MILDEW
Did you bring what I want?
TRADER JOHANN
Always straight to the point. I like that!
Trader Johann lifts the lid off a woven basket from a pile, allowing Mildew to peer inside.
TRADER JOHANN
(continuing)
Did you bring my cabbage?
Mildew gestures to a basket on the floor holding several heads of cabbage. Trader Johann happily takes the basket and gives the cabbages a big sniff before walking off screen.
MILDEW
Take these to my house.
Mildew points to the baskets with his staff and leaves. A terrible terror climbs up the pile of baskets and snacks on the contents of Mildews basket.
TRADER JOHANN
Now, now, now little fella, that's not for you. Away.
The terrible terror bites Johann's finger.
TRADER JOHANN
(continuing)
Ow! Feisty little one isn't he?
Trader Johann grabs the terrible terror by the tail and tosses him to the side past Hiccup. This angers Toothless, who lunges at Trader Johann, knocking the squid ink pot from Hiccup's hand in the process. Trader Johann backs away, scared.
TRADER JOHANN
Safe distance please!
Hiccup moves between Toothless and trader Johann and intervenes.
HICCUP
Toothless, no!
(to Johann)
I'm sorry Johann. He's just being protective.
Hiccup picks up a piece of the broken ink bottle.
HICCUP
Uh, it's gone.
TRADER JOHANN
Oh, sorry lad. That was my last one. But rest assured I'll find that colossal squid and wrestle you another bottle.
HICCUP
Oh Toothless.
INT. DRAGON TRAINING ACADEMY - DAY
The dragons and riders gather in a semi-circle and watch as Tuffnut wheels in a large stone carving of a viking.
TUFFNUT
Wow. How does that look?
RUFFNUT
Beautiful.
HICCUP
You got them just for the academy?
Hiccup comes over and inspects the statue.
TUFFNUT
Ya we got them from trader Johann. We had to give him our great-grandfather's skull. We got to keep his clavicle.
HICCUP
Wow! You know, it's about time you guys started taking some pride in this place.
TUFFNUT
Duck!
HICCUP
What?
Belchbarf shoots a fireball at the statue, which Hiccup and Tuffnut barely avoid by diving out of the way.
SNOTLOUT
That was awesome! I wanna take a shot!
Snotlout runs to and mounts Hookfang.
SNOTLOUT
Fire!
Hookfang spits a fireball at the stone target. Stormfly follows with a barrage of tail spikes, then Meatlug with a fireball of her own. Toothless tries to take a turn, but only manages a sneeze which misses statue completely. He sneezes again, nearly hitting Snotlout with the resulting fireball.
SNOTLOUT
Ahh!
HICCUP
Oh that's strange.
Hiccup gets up to check on Toothless.
SNOTLOUT
Hey! Could you have your dragon cover his mouth when he sneezes?
HICCUP
I'm sorry but that's never happened before.
Toothless makes doe eyes at Hiccup and sneezes again. Hiccup watches, worried.
EXT. PLAZA - DAY
Hiccup and Astrid fly home from the academy on their dragons. Astrid spots some flowers growing in the plaza.
ASTRID
Look at those flowers! They're beautiful.
Toothless sneezes again and swerves past Astrid and Stormfly.
ASTRID
Woah! Hey! What are you doing?
Toothless flails about and sneezes mid flight. He can barely stay in the air.
HICCUP
It's not me. Uh okay Toothless. Waahhh!
Toothless crashes head first into the ground, sending Hiccup flying. Hiccup rights himself and then checks Toothless. Astrid joins them.
HICCUP
Toothless, are you okay bud? Toothless? Maybe he's got a cold or something. Do dragons get colds?
The squeak of an off screen terrible terror can be heard.
ASTRID
Whoa, look at that.
The terrible terror from the boat struggles to stay airborne as he flies past. He crashes into the ground by the vikings feet. Astrid cradles the sneezing dragon in her arms.
ASTRID
Well whatever it is looks like he's got it too.
INT. HICCUP'S HOUSE - DAY
Gobber brews a pot of unknown green liquid over the fire.
GOBBER
This will fix him right up.
Gobber grabs the pot with his hook and brings it over to Hiccup and Toothless.
HICCUP
What is that?
GOBBER
It's best not to ask. Whatever you do, don't touch it.
Toothless sneezes again, splattering the viscous green muck on Gobber's shirt.
GOBBER
Well that's ruined. I'll never get that yak to vomit again.
Without warning, Astrid burst in the door.
ASTRID
Hiccup! You gotta see this.
EXT. HICCUP'S HOUSE - DAY
Hookfang, Meatlug, and Belchbarf all attempt to stay in the air as they sneeze and flap about weakly. Their riders try and fail to control the situation.
SNOTLOUT
Easy, easy! Wooaaahhh!
Hookfang crashes into one of the massive village torches and spins around it helplessly. Belchbarf flies past, narrowly avoiding collision with a house. Fishlegs flies past on Meatlug, who is spinning through the air in tight spirals.
FISHLEGS
Help her Hiccup! She's sick! Whoa! And I'm about to be!
Fishlegs covers his mouth as he and Meatlug crash into the grass outside Hiccup's house.
HICCUP
It's spreading to all the dragons.
(to Gobber)
How do we stop this?
GOBBER
Gothi! She'll know what to do!
INT. HICCUP'S HOUSE - DAY
Gothi inspects Toothless' eyes and mouth. Satisfied, she takes a handful of bones and tosses them on the floor, observing the result.
ASTRID
I've heard Gothi could tell you when you're gonna die, just by looking at your fingernails.
Fishlegs quickly hides his hands behind his back.
GOBBER
Ah, that's just an old wives tale. She looks at your tongue.
Fishlegs clamps his hands over his mouth. Gobber approaches Gothi to interpret her drawings.
GOBBER
She says they're reacting to something, like they're allergic.
HICCUP
Allergic? To what?
Gothi continues her drawing. Gobber continues to interpret, badly.
GOBBER
To a moose wearing boots. Shouldn't be hard to find.
Gothi looks at Gobber and whacks him over the head with her staff.
GOBBER
I didn't think that was right.
Gothi resumes drawing with Gobber watching.
GOBBER
Ahh, they're allergic to something new that's just come to the island. But that still looks like a moose.
Gothi hits Gobber on the head again.
ASTRID
Well there are a lot of new things on the island. Trader Johann was just here.
Gothi sketches a response to Astrid. Gobber explains.
GOBBER
She says to get rid of everything, immediately. Otherwise it's just going to get worse, the dragons are going to get sicker.
Hiccup looks devastated. He leans on Toothless, giving his friend a reassuring hug.
EXT. BERK - DAY
At the head of a line of Vikings, Sven drops his new axe into a huge pit. Astrid and Gobber stand with Hiccup, helping supervise to make sure all of the new items get tossed.
HICCUP
I know this is hard, guys, but I promise you, you're doing a good thing.
He gestures encouragingly, as the female Viking next in line advances, carrying a sack punctuated by dozens of spikes. Behind her, another woman moves forward to dispose of her woven basket.
HICCUP
You're helping the dragons!
ASTRID
It's the least we can do for them!
Sighing heavily, Snotlout steps up, taking one long, last gaze into his mirror before casting it in.
SNOTLOUT
Goodbye, beautiful.
Behind him, Fishlegs leafs furiously through the last pages of his botany book. Evidently frustrated, Ruffnut leans over his shoulder.
RUFFNUT
What are you doing!? Throw it in!
Brows furrowed in concentration, Fishlegs refuses to look up, frantically trying to skim as many pages as possible.
FISHLEGS
I'm sorry! But this botany book is a real page turner! I gotta know how it ends!
Ruffnut rolls her eyes and slumps her shoulders in disgusted annoyance--there's no time for this! She reaches in, deftly plucking the book away, leaving Fishlegs wide-eyed and waving in horror. Purposefully stepping to the edge, she tosses it haphazardly, sending a smug grin to Fishlegs, who can do nothing but watch in agony.
HICCUP
I don't see you throwing anything in the pile, and I thought I saw you buy something from Trader Johann.
He turns suspiciously to Gobber, wagging an accusatory finger. Gobber shakes his head in denial, but Astrid moves in to back Hiccup up.
ASTRID
He did!
She points.
ASTRID
He bought silk!
HICCUP
Hand it over, Gobber.
He holds his hand out, waiting insistently. Gobber frowns at the teens, clearly guilty.
GOBBER
Can't do that, Hiccup. It's currently in use.
Cupping his hand around his mouth, he leans toward Hiccup.
GOBBER
(whispering)
It's my skivvies. They're glorious!
He shakes his fists, beaming with glee. Hiccup glares at him hard, refusing to give in.
GOBBER
Fine.
He pouts, trudging to privacy behind a pile of enormous boulders. His hand pops up, flinging the bright purple shorts over the rocks, into the pit. A moment later, he reemerges, glumly adjusting his pants.
HICCUP
I could have gone my whole life without seeing that.
Astrid's face mirrors his words as they watch Gobber walk away.
EXT. BERK/HICCUP'S HOUSE - MORNING
Hiccup sits up in bed, smiling, eager to cheer up Toothless.
HICCUP
Hey! How 'bout we go out flying? Maybe that'll make you feel better.
Toothless, clearly miserable, isn't up for flying. In fact, he doesn't seem to want to do anything other than lie on his stone slab, which he voices with a lamenting rumble, looking up with woozy, unfocused eyes. He drops his head down, but immediately pulls it back up with a pained hiss. Hiccup gasps, ducking just in time to dodge the plasma bolt that accompanies Toothless' powerful sneeze. With Hiccup's head out of the way, it explodes against the wall in a dull puff of smoke. He looks up sadly, even more concerned for his best friend, who still isn't getting any better. Toothless meets his gaze momentarily, before dropping his head in sad exhaustion. Hiccup hates seeing him like this, not knowing how to make it better.
EXT. BERK/STORMFLY'S BARN - DAY
Inside the small barn next to the house, Stormfly slumps doleful, on the ground, while Astrid kneels by her side, trying to offer some consolation.
ASTRID
Poor girl! Can't get comfortable, huh? I know what'll help!
She jumps up excitedly, spinning around to the wall.
ASTRID
I'll put--
She ducks just quickly enough for the volley of Stormfly's tail darts to miss her and land solidly in the wall instead. Standing in shock, she finds Stormfly staring up at her, weary and apologetic. Instantly, she turns conciliate, striking a Vikingly pose and a knowing smile.
ASTRID
It's okay, Stormfly. I'm a soldier. I've been shot at before.
Stormfly blinks up at her feebly.
EXT. BERK/FISHLEG'S HOUSE - DAY
Also still sick, Meatlug dozes on the floor, while Fishlegs kneels at her back, massaging her hind paws and telling her a story.
FISHLEGS
Once upon a time there was a little princess named Meatlug--
He pinches his fingers to the size of an inch, accenting the word little, then raises a hand to gesture to her, his enthusiasm growing as the tale continues.
FISHLEGS
--the most beautiful dragon in all of the land! People would come from miles around--
Unexpectedly, her tail lifts, and she releases an explosive fart, powerful enough to knock Fishlegs' helmet right off his head. He freezes, stupefied. Meatlug ruefully looks back, catching his grimace as he fans his face. Quickly amending his expression, he grins lamely to mask his revulsion, while trying not to inhale.
FISHLEGS
(trying to hold his breath)
No, no, it's okay girl!
He sniffs, trying to convince both of them. Smiling even wider, he continues trying to placate the dragon.
FISHLEGS
It's not that bad. Smells just like rose petals and--
Unable to stop himself, he gags, slapping his hand over his mouth with a nauseated groan. His eyes roll back in his head, he inhales sharply, and faints.
EXT. BERK - DAY
The teens and their agonized dragons gather in town to find a new strategy.
FISHLEGS
We got rid of everything from Trader Johann, but out dragons still aren't getting better. They're getting worse!
The fear in his voice is evident and he slumps in defeat, looking to Hiccup for a solution. Hiccup paces forward, taking charge.
HICCUP
Let's, let's make a list.
He comes to a stop in front of Hookfang, gesturing with his hands, puzzled over why the dragons aren't improving. Astrid turns attentively, while Snotlout leans against Hookfang's back, glaring into space.
HICCUP
Maybe there's somebody who bought something from Trader Johann but hasn't thrown it into the pit.
Astrid takes a step forward, agreeing and irritated by and what it means.
ASTRID
Yeah... There must have been somebody who didn't want to give up what they bought.
Snotlout stands angrily, balling his fists and punching them together.
SNOTLOUT
If I find out who was holding back, I am gonna be so mad!
His hand motions grow more frenzied and his voice reaches a threatening shout.
SNOTLOUT
Hookfang was so sick, I was up all night scraping dragon barf off our walls.
TUFFNUT
Yeah?
He interjects, gravely, Ruffnut next to him, staring dismally at the immobile Zippleback.
TUFFNUT
Well, ours is dead!
The last word sends a shock through the group. Astrid gasps, pulling back in horror, Hiccup blinks, uncomprehending, and Snotlout's jaw drops.
TUFFNUT
Just kidding.
He motions casually shaking his head.
TUFFNUT
But, he's really not that fun anymore.
Ruffnut nods in disappointed agreement.
RUFFNUT
He just sits there. He won't blow anything up!
The other teens are a blend of relieved and horrified, when a shriek pulls their attention away from the twins. They turn to see Thornado landing next to Hiccup's house, Stoick on his back.
STOICK
Hiccup! Put this in the Book of Dragons!
He climbs down, advancing toward the teens.
STOICK
Never fly on a stomach full of undercooked mutton. The Shivering Shores will never be the same.
Continuing to close the distance, he takes in the teens' disheartened faces and the debilitated dragons, too fatigued to even raise their heads. Concern fills him. He moves to Hiccup for answers.
STOICK
What is it, Hiccup? What's wrong?
HICCUP
(distressed)
It's the dragons, dad. They're, uh...
Apprehensive over the dragons, Hiccup stumbles to find the words. Astrid cuts in to help.
ASTRID
They're sick! And getting worse.
They watch brokenly as it sinks in.
STOICK
Every dragon?
Completely unprepared to come home to this, he looks away, uncertainly.
EXT. HICCUP'S HOUSE - NIGHT
Stoick drops another log on the top of the smoldering fire pit and crouches down to Toothless, who's lying pitifully on the floor. Hiccup's running his hands over his head, attempting to give any solace he can.
STOICK
(deeply sympathetic)
Poor guy! What do you think happened?
Hiccup shakes his head, the pained stress of his friend's condition and desperation to fix it evident in every movement.
HICCUP
Ugh, I don't know! Gothi says they're allergic to something new to the island, but we think we've gotten rid of everything.
Maintaining his composure, Stoick urges Hiccup to consider all possibilities.
STOICK
But, if the dragons aren't getting better...
HICCUP
Then something must still be here that's making them sick.
Increasingly distressed, his conclusion is interrupted by heavy, wheezing sounds outside. Stoick leaps to his feet at the familiar noise.
STOICK
Thornado?
His turn to panic, he dashes outside, rounding the corner just as Thornado sneezes, blasting the air with powerful shock waves. Pushing Hiccup backward to shield him from the blast, Stoick creeps toward the dragon, worry lining his face.
HICCUP
Sneezing! That's the first symptom.
Shocked, Stoick tries to wrap his mind around how quickly it happened.
STOICK
He was fine until we got back!
With Thornado afflicted now too, that means it has to be something on the island. Hiccup looks up, hopeful that Thornado will lead them to a clue.
HICCUP
Um, we should retrace your steps.
EXT. BERK - NIGHT
Stoick stands, surrounded by Hiccup, Astrid, and Fishlegs, as they start to back over what he did when he returned to Berk.
STOICK
Well, this is where I landed.
HICCUP
Okay, look around for anything unusual.
They mill about, looking for something out of the ordinary Thornado could have come in contact with. Fishlegs spots something and points.
FISHLEGS
Does that count?
At the base of a small hill, the twins crouch low to the ground, in a fit of giggles, each springing forward to collide head first with the other. They bounce backward, landing on the grass, amused with themselves.
RUFFNUT
I'm seeing stars!
TUFFNUT
No way! Me too!
Astrid shakes her head sarcastically, unimpressed by the behavior.
ASTRID
Hmm... Nothing unusual here.
She notices Hiccup staring hard in their direction, deep in thought.
ASTRID
What is it?
Ruffnut looks from his face, to a dense patch of blue flowers atop the hill behind her. A Terrible Terror utters a light squawk, happily munching on the leaves. Hiccup suspiciously plucks one of the unfamiliar flowers, holding it up for the others to see.
HICCUP
Uh, does anybody remember seeing these flowers before?
STOICK
They were here when I got back.
Fishlegs snaps the stem from his hand, holding it up for closer inspection. The others wait to hear what he knows about it.
FISHLEGS
It looks an awful lot like the Blue Oleander. I recognize it from my botany book, chapter eight.
He's smiling, excited to use what he learned from his book, but Hiccup has something else in mind and presses for details.
HICCUP
I-is there anything specific you can remember?
FISHLEGS
They're very beautiful, very soft, perennial.
Fishlegs gushes proudly, entirely in his element. The last detail comes to him in a wave of panic.
FISHLEGS
And... Poisonous to reptiles!
Hiccup's eyes widen, horrified.
HICCUP
Which means poisonous to dragons!
Fishlegs flings the flower away, as if he himself were a dragon. Hiccup tries to remain calm, grappling for a solution, but unsure of how long they have to find one.
HICCUP
This is serious. Uh, duh, did your book say anything about a cure?
He looks pleadingly to Fishlegs, but Fishlegs has no further information. Fearful of being blamed, he shifts it back to Hiccup for making him get rid of the book.
FISHLEGS
I don't know because somebody made me throw it in a pit!
Impatient and irritated, Hiccup throws his arms in the air, demanding Fishlegs go find it.
HICCUP
W-then go back and dig it up!
Fishlegs scurries away, while Astrid steps forward, between Hiccup and Stoick.
ASTRID
I don't understand, where did these flowers even come from?
The three look at the flowers, baffled, before turning to the sound of Tuffnut's interjection.
TUFFNUT
Mildew. I saw him plant them the other night.
He motions casually, like it's the most natural occurrence on Berk. Astrid glares at him, eyebrows knitted irascibly.
ASTRID
And you didn't think that was strange?
TUFFNUT
No. Well, maybe.
He jumps quickly to his own defense, then calms slightly, conceding that maybe it was odd. The others stare at him, exasperated, prompting him to go back on the attack.
TUFFNUT
I don't know! Quit pressuring me!
He turns away, as Thornado growls and unleashes another explosive sneeze. Stoick ducks, standing once the accompanying shock waves have passed, his helmet knocked askew. Straightening it, he narrows his eyes at the teens.
STOICK
Let's go pay the old man a visit.
EXT. MILDEW'S HOUSE - NIGHT
MILDEW
Well, so what if I planted some flowers?
He turns to Stoick, Hiccup, and Astrid, Fungus in his arms. Knowing they can't prove he intentionally hurt the dragons, he staunchly professes his innocence.
MILDEW
The town square has never looked better. I was merely trying to spread some beauty and happiness.
It's clearly a charade and none of them are buying it. Astrid voices that first.
ASTRID
Since when have you cared about beauty or happiness?
Stoick glances at her, brows raised, then to Hiccup, who adds his own accusation.
HICCUP
You did this!
He points hard at the old man, while Astrid continues leering. Valid points made, Stoick turn to Mildew as well, and the three bore into him, waiting for his explanation.
MILDEW
What? Me!? Ha!
Taken aback, Mildew dismisses the teens, addressing Stoick for absolution.
MILDEW
Well, I had no inkling, Stoick, that these flowers had special properties.
He continues to weasel his way from any blame, petting Fungus, then raising his hand to swear that he didn't do it on purpose.
MILDEW
Oh, it's true, I'm not friend of the dragons, but in this case, on my life, I was not trying to harm them.
Stoick sighs, disbelieving, but knowing that without evidence, his hands are tied. He turns, ushering the kids out the door with a hand on each of their shoulders.
STOICK
Let's go.
He casts a final glare behind him, while Mildew maintains his act. Once out of Stoick's view, Mildew's face cracks into an evil smirk.
MILDEW
Ah. The poor, poor dragons.
He strokes Fungus again, still grinning ruthlessly.
EXT. BERK - NIGHT
Back in town, Fishlegs jogs up the ramp to meet the others.
HICCUP
Fishlegs! You found your botany book!
He's relieved and excited, hoping Fishlegs has some new, useful information. Astrid jumps up, urging Fishlegs on.
ASTRID
Wh-What does it say?
Fishlegs doesn't speak, instead cracking the book open and making tearful gasping noises. Hiccup takes control, trying to assuage Fishlegs so they can get back on track.
HICCUP
Calm down! Talk to me.
Marginally calmer, Fishlegs continues the hysterical panting, but goes on to tell them what he found in the book.
FISHLEGS
My botany book says that Blue Oleander is poisonous to reptiles! And dragons are reptiles!
Hiccup snaps at the unhelpful revelation, urging Fishlegs for more.
HICCUP
We know that! Was there anything else?
FISHLEGS
Not in here.
Fishlegs sniffles, and shakes his head, pocketing the book, before replacing it with a larger one.
FISHLEGS
But I remembered the Book of Dragons talked about a dragon that feeds on the Blue Oleander. It's called the Scauldron.
He thrusts the book toward them. Stoick squints, leaning forward slightly, while Astrid blinks next to him, anxiously waiting to hear what Fishlegs has to say next.
FISHLEGS
In a perfect world if it eats the flowers, maybe its venom can be used as an antidote, like with snakes and spiders. But alas, we do not live in a perfect world.
Fishlegs' voice drops in hopelessness just before he opens the book and shoves it upward, showing them all a picture of the Scauldron.
FISHLEGS
Look! The Scauldron has no venom!
Tuffnut steps up in astonishment to get a better look at the picture, still not grasping the gravity of the situation.
TUFFNUT
No... But it looks cool!
Fishlegs becomes hysterical, lowing the book, and pointing furiously.
FISHLEGS
Don't you understand, the book says no venom!
Tuffnut backs off, offended and angry, rolling his eyes and pointing at Fishlegs.
TUFFNUT
Okay, got it! No venom! Golly, write it on your forehead.
Any further fighting ceases, as Gobber's booming voice cuts in to join them. They turn toward him.
GOBBER
The book is wrong!
He stalks out from the shadows of the forge to join the group.
GOBBER
I've dealt with a Scauldron before. They're sixty feet long, with razor sharp teeth!
He stretches his arms as far as they'll go, then brings his hook to his mouth, backing up his words to show the others how unbelievable the Scauldron is.
GOBBER
And they'll shoot boiling water that melts the flesh from your bones!
The others watch, incredulous and fearful as he continues hobbling forward, more animated, voice growing to a shout.
GOBBER
The Scauldron has no fear. No conscience. But what the Scauldron does have is venom! And lots of it!
Tuffnut closes his mouth, and decides this adventure isn't for him. Casually, he begins walking away.
TUFFNUT
I'm out!
Ruffnut quickly joins him, pointing in agreement.
RUFFNUT
I'm with him.
The pair plod off, while Hiccup takes charge, authoritatively giving the others directions.
HICCUP
Alright... You guys stay here and take care of the dragons.
He marches over to Stoick and Gobber, while Fishlegs looks on nervously, still holding the open book.
FISHLEGS
What are you going to do?
Ignoring Fishlegs, he continues to the men, commanding their attention.
HICCUP
Dad? Gobber? Let's go find ourselves a Scauldron!
He turns, lit with determination and ready to lead the charge, while Gobber raises his arms in excitement behind him.
GOBBER
I thought you'd never ask!
INT - HICCUP'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Hiccup sits in his room. He holds the dragon manual open to a picture of the Scauldron.
HICCUP
Look at that thing...
Hiccup looks up from the book and at Toothless, who is laying ill on his bed. With a face of concern, Hiccup stands from the chair and places the book down next to his dragon. He crouches by the Night Fury's head and rubs it soothingly.
HICCUP
You just hang on, bud. I'll be back before you know it.
EXT - OUTSIDE THE HADDOCK HOUSE - NIGHT
Stoick stands before his dragon just outside his home. Thornado is resting beneath a tarp attached to the side of the house.
STOICK
How's my dragon warrior?
Thornado gives a weak sigh and otherwise remains where he lays. Stoick looks taken aback by the pained response. He bends down, collects a rock, and gently puts it beneath the Thunderdum's head like a pillow to make him more comfortable.
Thornado looks up at Stoick.
STOICK
(sighs)
I spent my whole life trying to kill them. Now look at me.
Stoick stands and turns. Hiccup is behind him. He's subdued but determined.
HICCUP
Dad, it's time. The boat's ready.
Stoick takes in a breath and gives his dragon one last look.
EXT - SEA - NIGHT
A single ship rocks gently in the sea. It's night; the only light comes from the stars reflected on the waves and the mists rising from the water.
MILDEW (O.S.)
Well, this is an outrage!
Mildew stands by the stern of the boat, upset.
MILDEW
I dug up all the flowers! I did my part!
Stoick and Hiccup stand at the other end of the ship. Two vikings row behind them.
STOICK
We're all out here because of you Mildew.
(points at Mildew)
If we all have to put our lives at risk then so do you!
Mildew begins to march forward, brandishing his staff.
MILDEW
You have no proof, Stoick! You can't blame me every-time something goes amiss with your...
He leans in toward Hiccup.
MILDEW
(sneering)
...precious dragons.
He stalks past them. Gobber steps in at Stoick's side with a bucket in hand.
GOBBER
Alright, Stoick.
(passes bucket to Stoick)
What's the plan?
Stoick turns to Hiccup.
STOICK
Hiccup, when Gobber and I secure the Scauldron's head, Sven will wedge its jaw open.
He holds out the bucket to Hiccup, who takes it.
STOICK
We'll need you to--
HICCUP
(impatient)
Drain the poison into this bucket. Got it.
(takes a breath)
Let's get started.
Hiccup steps to the side of the boat with brusque steps, sets down the bucket and picks up a basket of blue oleanders. He begins to walk across the deck at the same fast pace.
HICCUP
(to everyone)
This is what Scauldron's eat. It'll draw them to the boat.
He leans over the rail of the ship and begins to sprinkle the flowers into the sea. They flutter down and rest on the surface of the water.
Time passes and soon the slow-moving ship has a trail of blue oleanders floating in its wake.
MILDEW
Bah! This is not working!
He stomps by behind Stoick and Hiccup, who are waiting at the rail of the boat.
MILDEW
It was a stupid idea to begin with!
Hiccup moves to snap back at Mildew but Stoick intercepts him.
STOICK
Easy son, that's not why we're here.
GOBBER (O.S.)
But that is.
Stoick, Hiccup, and Mildew turn around and move to other side of the boat. A large, bright figure of a dragon can be seen moving just below the surface of the water.
The men on board follow its movements.
STOICK
(whispering)
Scauldron!
The Scauldron breaches the water behind the ship to show off the spines of its back. It does so again at the ship's side, meters away from Sven at the oar. Gobber turns to Hiccup once it submerges.
GOBBER
I may need to change my skivvies again.
Hiccup isn't listening. He runs to the baskets of oleanders, picks one up, and runs across the deck.
HICCUP
We need to lure the Scauldron on deck!
Hiccup scatters the flowers across the backend of the ship.
MILDEW
Oh, that's great. Get it on the ship where it can
(shouting)
have at us whole!
STOICK
Gobber!
He bends down, picks up a bola, and tosses it to Gobber.
STOICK
Secure its neck with this!
Gobber catches the weapon and he and runs to the front of the ship alongside Stoick. Stoick has a catch pole in hand.
STOICK
I'll lasso his horn!
The men peer over either side of the bow, trying to catch site of the Scauldron. A moment of tense silence passes.
GOBBER
Where did it go?
The silence continues. The sounds of breaking waves and creaking wood becomes more apparent. Gobber narrows his eyes at the strangely silent sea. The other vikings aboard the ship glance around themselves nervously.
An oar is suddenly ripped from Sven's grip. It's pulled away from the boat before it's sucked beneath the sea's surface entirely. The Sven cries out as he spies a spray of water moving quickly at the ship. It strikes the ship so hard the entire hull is thrown from the sea. Ship lands back in the water hard. Vikings are tossed around the deck.
From the ground, Mildew turns to see the Scauldron rise from the sea. It towers over him and the boat. Mildew cries out and scrambles away.
The Scauldron rises further out of the sea and steps onto the rim of the ship. The ship is tipped so violently that some vikings are sent sliding down the deck towards the end the dragon stands on.
GOBBER
Hold on everybody!
Mildew's fall is stopped when he hits the mast of the ship. Crates and supplies continue to fall past him.
Hiccup cries out as begins to slide down as well.
STOICK
Hiccup!
Hiccup's fall is stopped when Gobber reaches out and grabs his arm.
GOBBER
Gotcha!
The barrels of blue oleanders tumble down past Hiccup. Mildew hollers as one is bumped off the deck and flies straight into his face. He throws the basket off him and spits out a mouthful of flowers.
The Scauldron sniffs and snaps at the flowers falling his way.
From the other end of the ship, Stoick realizes they can take advantage of its distraction.
STOICK
Gobber! Here's our chance!
Gobber gruns and they slide down toward the Scauldron. Stoick throws a rope at the dragon and it wraps around the horn. Gobber swings an anchor and it catches around the Scauldron's neck. The Scauldron panics and tries to jump back in the sea. The ship rights itself again from the loss of weight.
STOICK
We can't let the dragon get back into the water!
Together, Stoick and Gobber pull the Scaldron back out of the water.
GOBBER
He's a strong one...
Stoick turns and hollers over his shoulder.
STOICK
Sven! We need that barrel now!
Sven rushes up with a barrel in hand. He slows as he approaches the massive head of the Scauldron. The dragon snaps at him.
Hiccup grabs the venom bucket from the ground.
HICCUP
I've got the bucket!
STOICK
Careful son! You don't want to get that venom in you!
HICCUP
(annoyed)
Yes, I know, dad. I'll be dead in twenty four hours.
The Scauldron is still snapping at the vikings. Sven carefully watches for an opportunity and tosses the barrel he's holding when the jaws are opened. The Scauldron bites down on it.
SVEN
(victorious)
Ha ha!
The Scauldron's jaws are too powerful and it crunches the barrel into pieces. It's tail raises from the water and poises to strike.
STOICK
Sven! Look out!
The tail swings around and whacks Sven right off the ship. Sven screams and flies into the distances, landing in the water. Gobber and Stick keep pulling at the Scauldron's head and Mildew continues to cower behind the mast. Hiccup narrow his eyes as the dragon, determined. He doesn't see the tail rise from the water again, behind him.
STOICK
Hiccup, behind you!
Stoick releases the rope and dives for Hiccup. He pushes his son out of the way in time to be struck by the Scauldon's tail.
HICCUP
Dad!
Stoick clings to the thrashing tail. It smashes around, knocking shield decor from the hull of the ship, trying to shaking the Viking loose.
Stoick manages to pin the tail between his body and the top of the mast.
STOICK
(grunting)
Daah! I--got his tail!
Gobber struggles with holding the Scauldron's head alone.
GOBBER
Hiccup, grab your dad's line!
Hiccup swipes for it a couple times before catching it. He hooks it on a peg and pulls.
HICCUP
Got it!
STOICK
Pull him in! Use the mast to wedge his jaw open!
Gobber and Hiccup pull until the mast forced is between the dragon's open mouth. Mildew is still pressed against the other side of the mast and looks terrified.
STOICK
Mildew! Grab the bucket!
MILDEW
Hold on! It's one thing for me to--
STOICK
Grab the bucket or I'll throw you over board myself!
Mildew whimpers. He shakily picks up the bucket rolling by his feet. Gobber and Hiccup strain to keep the dragon's mouth against the mast.
A mist starts to release from the Scauldron's mouth. It's preparing to fire boiling water at them.
STOICK
(bellowing)
Everyone take cover!
Mildew wastes no time. He throws the bucket away and runs. Hiccup drops the line and grabs a shield from the ground
HICCUP
Gobber!
Gobber joins Hiccup behind the shield. Mildew ducks behind a broken crate on the other side of the ship.
A high-pitched whistling fills the air in the moment just before the Scauldron releases its blow. The boiling spray tears through the mast, strikes the shield Hiccup and Gobber are behind and the crate covering Mildew.
The mast falls sideways into the sea.
STOICK
Gaah!
Stoick falls with the mast and is submerged under water.
Hiccup throws the shield from him.
HICCUP
Dad!
Gobber grabs Hiccup from running too far. The last line holding the Scauldron breaks and the dragon rears back, furious. It roars at Mildew, who is still cowering behind the crate.
MILDEW
(shrieking)
AHHH!
Mildew tosses the crate aside and tries to run to the other side of the boat. The Scauldron follows him with an angry gaze and spots a blue oleander stuck to Mildew's butt. It shoots forward and nips the flower off of Mildew, piercing the old man's butt in the process.
Having gotten what it wanted, it returns to the sea and swims away.
Hiccup walks to the edge of the ship and watches it leave.
HICCUP
(dejected)
He's gone...
Gobber and Stoick, who has climbed back onto the boat, walk up behind him.
GOBBER
And you can bet the last place he's coming back to is this ship.
STOICK
(disappointed)
We didn't get the venom.
Mildew wails behind them. The three turn to see Mildew twitching on the ground, his butt still in the air.
HICCUP
Yes we did.
MILDEW
Get this poison out of me!
HICCUP
Oh, we will.
EXT - BERK - NIGHT
A full moon shines over Berk. It's a beautiful setting aside from the shrieks of pain coming from Gobber's forge. A curtain covers the window but the silloette of Gobber extracting the poison from Mildew can be seen from outside. The Berk teens stand in a line outside, waiting for their dragons' antidote. Some look uncomfortable with the noise Mildew is making, others look excited.
TUFFNUT
Can you beleive we're all just standing around, waiting for something to come out of Mildew's butt?
From inside the forge, Gobber lifts a large, fan-like object from the wall and approaches Mildew. Mildew spies the tool out of his peripheral and turns slightly, still laying prone on the table.
MILDEW
No-no-no! W-w-wait-wait-wait! Isn't there something
(nervous laughter)
a little smaller you could use?
GOBBER
(dismissive)
Probably.
He raises the tool and brings it down on Mildew's butt. Mildew screams. It's easily heard by the teens outside.
Astrid turns to Hiccup, smiling.
ASTRID
That's the sound of our dragons getting better.
Gobber walks out of the forge with a small pitcher.
GOBBER
I've seen a Nadder's spine slice through a man's eyeball like a grape. I've watched my own arm get devoured by a Monstrous Nightmare. But never, never, have I seen anything so disturbing... as that old man's bare behind! Here-
(hands pitcher to Hiccup)
Take this to your dragons.
Hiccup accepts the pitcher and Gobber walks past him.
GOBBER
I'm going to the forest to scream.
HICCUP
Way to take one for the team, Gobber.
HADDOCK HOUSE - NIGHT
Stoick returns home as Gobber's promised scream rings into the night. He steps inside to see Hiccup tending to Toothless. The dragon is still unconscious and breathing heavily; there's no change since the venom has been administered.
Hiccup sees his father.
HICCUP
Relax, dad. It's gonna be fine.
Stoick turns and walks back outside. Hiccup rests his head on top of Toothless's. Toothless stirs.
Outside, Stoick paces. His dragon is still resting beneath the tarp.
HICCUP
Dad!
Stoick turns. Hiccup and a very awake Toothless are outside behind him.
HICCUP
They're coming around!
Stoick whirls around to Thornado. The dragon grumbles and opens his eyes. Stoick gives a delighted laugh.
STOICK
Thornado!
He dives to his knees and bumps his helmet against Thornado's nose in an affectionate headbutt.
HICCUP
(to Toothless)
How you feeling, bud?
He pats Toothless on the nose. Toothless shakes his head a bit and fires off a full plasma blast into the sky to show he's fine.
HICCUP
Good to have you back, bud.
Thornado releases his own powerful sound-wave into the sky.
INT - HICCUP'S ROOM - DAY
Hiccup is back to sketching Toothless in his room.
HICCUP (V.O.)
A deadly flower, a venemous sea dragon, and Mildew's butt.
Toothless is curled on his bed in the same position as he's being drawn in Hiccup's sketchbook. He stirs from his sleep and cocks his head at Hiccup.
HICCUP (V.O.)
Three things I never really thought I'd have to deal with in the same day. But I'll do anything for my dragon.
Toothless' head snaps to the open window. The sound of laughter is heard from outside. The other teens fly overhead on their healthy dragons. The previously sick Terror happily trails them, it's tongue flapping in the wind.
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