Written by Art Brown, Douglas Sloan, Mike & Linda Teverbaugh
Transcribed by BlackRose108, NotsospecialK, and AvannaK
EXT. THOR'S BEACH - DAY
Heather runs frantically through the wooded section at the rim of Thor's Beach, panting heavily while making her mad dash. She has a slight relief when she spots a lone boat wedged between the shore and sand but it explodes before her before she can get into it.
Astrid appears to be the riding Stormfly--the cause of the exploding boat--seeming rather pleased with herself.
ASTRID
You can break out of jail as many times as you want, but you're not getting off this island!
INT. BERK PRISON - DAY
In the a single prison cell, Heather is forcefully thrown inside, tripping over as she stumbles in.
ASTRID
Give it up Heather-
Astrid slams the door shut and retains the pleased look on her face as she cocks her hip slightly.
ASTRID (CONT.)
-We have Dragons.
HEATHER
(desperately)
Astrid, I have to get back to Outcast Island!
ASTRID
(bitter)
Yeah, I bet you do.
Astrid is done with the situation, seeing herself out of the prison and sick of Heather's 'excuses'.
HEATHER
You don't understand, Alvin has my parents!
Heather runs up to the door, holding onto the bars desperately.
Astrid, though, is wickedly amused by Heather's pleas, laughing a little tartly.
ASTRID
Oh yeah? What happened to the "pirates"?
HEATHER
(defeated)
There were never any pirates. I made it part up....But, I had to. I needed you to trust me.
ASTRID
Well guess what? We don't.
Astrid turns and walks again, more final this time.
ASTRID
Not any more....
Heather steps forward right up to the door, still clinging to the bars but Astrid is finished with the conversation, leaving Heather alone in her thoughts and worries yet again.
EXT. OUTCAST ISLAND - DAY
Meanwhile, on Outcast Island, a small group of men are surrounding a wild Gronckle, which is making a territorial mark on the fallen book.
OUTCAST #1
Uh...is that the book?
SAVAGE
Looks like...
The gronckle moves over the book, growling at even the slightest step closer to it.
SAVAGE
The only question is...How are we gonna get to it?
OUTCAST #1
(wistfully)
Uh...if we had the dragon book...maybe it would tell us what to do!
Savage stares dully towards the other Outcast, feeling surrounded by idiots.
SAVAGE
You mean-
(pointing to the book under the gronckle)
That book?
OUTCAST #1
uh.....right!
SAVAGE
(rolling his eyes)
The husky, smart kid on Berk rides one of these dragons. They're very gentle.
To seem to emphasize the point, the gronckle drops it's territorial attitude and simply begins to gnaw on it's own claws happily.
SAVAGE
So...go take it from him!
The gronckle growls again before going back to it's gnawing.
SAVAGE
What are you waiting for? It's just one little dragon, go!
The other Outcast steps in front, moving slowly towards the gronckle.
OUTCAST #1
Uh, hello there, uh, dragon....
The dragons begins to scratch itself gentle but becomes annoyingly angry when it's space is being invaded.
OUTCAST #1
If you wouldn't mind....I'd just like to uh...borrow your-
The Outcast gets down on his knees, reaching towards the book placed steadily under the gronckle, still very slowly.
But right before he makes contact with the book the gronckle's claw slams onto the cover, angered that it's territory is being invaded it opens its mouth and begins to spill out hot air and fire.
Distant screams of the Outcast can be heard as his helmet, axe, and clothes are ripped and torn off, being thrown all around.
Savage winces a bit at the scene before him but is otherwise nonchalant.
SAVAGE
Well, that didn't work...who's next?
As expected, none of the other two Outcasts want to volunteer.
EXT. DRAGON TRAINING ACADEMY - DAY
In the academy, Snotlout is yanking on a catapult and hurls a rock upwards. It's coming straight for Meatlug and Fishlegs, who are fluttering unguarded in the air. Meatlug turns and swallows the rock, but it's a close call.
FISHLEGS
Hey, that was a little close, Snotlout.
SNOTLOUT
(mockingly)
Quit whining, Fishlegs!
Fishlegs glares and has Meatlug shot a powerful fireball at Snotlout. He ducks and is narrowly missed by the impact.
SNOTLOUT
Hey! Cut it out!
FISHLEGS
(mockingly)
Quit whining, Snotlout!
Hiccup and Toothless walk up.
HICCUP
Nice job, guys. But remember, the Outcasts are not gonna be coming one at a time.
FISHLEGS
You don't need to remind me, we're under enough stress.
HICCUP
Remember, we're only gonna have one shot at getting the Book of Dragons back.
FISHLEGS
Um, did I not make myself clear about the stress...?
Ruffnut and Tuffnut fly in on Barf and Belch blowing gas and igniting it across the ground of the academy, it goes towards Snotlout and Hookfang. Snotlout jumps out of the way yet again but it sets Hookfang on fire a bit, the nightmare roars.
Astrid flies in on Stormfly as well, landing to offer instruction much like Hiccup did.
ASTRID
Too early, Snotlout. We have to time it perfectly!
SNOTLOUT
It wasn't me, it was-
(he points to the twins)
-Them!
RUFFNUT
Uh...sorry.
She doesn't exactly sound too sorry.
TUFFNUT
Yeah, still working out the kinks.
They both share a snarky laugh.
Hookfang, on the other hand, wasn't too big a fan of being ignited and begins to rampage around the arena as per the norm when he's angry.
ASTRID
Can you calm him down?
SNOLOUT
(thoroughly annoyed with everything)
Fine, whatever.
Snotlout walks over the Hookfang and grabs his horns, flipping his hand over and pinning his horns to the ground.
Hookfang purrs in a lull of bliss, his eyes softening.
SNOTLOUT
Figured that one out yesterday...he likes it!
FISHLEGS
W-W-Wait, he likes having his horns bent to the ground?
RUFFNUT
Tuffnut does!
TUFFNUT
I do-?
Ruffnut immediately lunges towards Tuffnut and pins the horns of his helmet to the ground.
TUFFNUT
Oh yeah...that does feel kinda nice. The dirt's soft...
ASTRID
Can we get on with it? There could be a whole army coming at us!
Snotlout gets back on Hookfang.
SNOTLOUT
Well-? We're waiting!
Astrid and Stormfly go back into the air, and Hookfang ignites the ground, Ruffnut and Tuffnut back away from the flames.
SNOTLOUT
Hit it!
ASTRID
Spines Stormfly!
Obeying, Stormfly shots a few spikes through the fire, flaming darts sticking to wall with a sharp and fiery impact right by the twins, narrowly missing Ruffnut but one of the flaming spikes hits Tuffnut square in the helmet, remaining stuck.
TUFFNUT
Eh, I kinda like that too.
(to Ruffnut)
Make a note.
HICCUP
(pleased)
That's gonna work great!
FISHLEGS
You know all this training is nice once we have the book. But Alvin's not just gonna hand it over to us.
ASTRID
No...but maybe Alvin will hand it to Heather...?
FISHLEGS
Uh...I think Astrid's been eating dragon nip again.
Astrid, offended--and perhaps a bit embarrassed--lunged a good hard punch in Fishlegs' stomach.
FISHLEGS
Why is it always violence with you!?
ASTRID
(matter-of-factly)
It's not "violence" it's communication!
HICCUP
So you're suggesting that we let Heather go?
ASTRID
Sort of.
FISHLEGS
Yep. Dragon nip.
Astrid delivers another punch.
INT. ALVIN'S LAYER, OUTCAST ISLANDS - DAY
Savage walks up to Alvin a bit defeated with burning lava perched at the top of his helmet. Alvin examines him carefully.
ALVIN
What's that on your helmet?
He reaches out to touch it and "shockingly" gets burned and snatches his head away.
SAVAGE
Lava, gronckle chapter. You might wanna read it.
Savage opens the book and hands it to Alvin.
ALVIN
Hm...well this is all very interesting. I'll have to see it to believe it.
Alvin closes the book, looking past Savage to see if anyone else is there.
ALVIN
Where's the girl?
SAVAGE
She was captured after she made the drop.
ALVIN
(passively)
How unfortunate for her...But hey-
(he gestures towards the book)
-Lets give this a try, shall we?
EXT. THOR'S BEACH - NIGHT
Snotlout, Ruffnut, Tuffnut, and Hiccup are loading supplies into a lone boat on the shore.
FISHLEGS
T-t-t-t-t-this is gonna w-work, right? Cause if it doesn't work, Alvin's gonna know all of out dragon secrets. And if Alvin knows all of our dragon secrets...
Hiccup places a hand on Fishlegs' shoulder, calming him.
HICCUP
(confidently)
Fishlegs...it'll work.
He looks up and sees something in the distance and smiles.
HICCUP (CONT.)
Oh, that must be-
Immediately, Ruffnut and Tuffnut run up to the person walking up--who looks like Heather.
RUFFNUT
Heather!
TUFFNUT
Get her! That rhymes!
They tackle her, pinning her to the sand by both arms.
TUFFNUT
You. Must. Stay. In. Your. Cell! How many times do we have to tell you-?
"Heather" lands solid punches in both Ruffnut and Tuffnut's noses, and the twins tumble backwards.
The girl sits up and reveals herself as Astrid dressed in Heather's clothes and with her hair dyed black.
ASTRID
It's me, you muttenheads!
Everyone is amazed by Astrid's transformation, and all the boys respond "positively" to it.
TUFFNUT
Whoa.
SNOTLOUT
Wow.
FISHLEGS
Oooh.
TUFFNUT
Oh, sorry Astrid, totally unconvincing.
ASTRID
(brushing herself off and rolling her eyes.)
Oh yeah, I could tell.
Astrid climbs in the boat, turning to face Hiccup.
HICCUP
You sure about this?
ASTRID
No. But it's our only chance.
HICCUP
We'll be shadowing you from the sky.
ASTRID
(rolling her eyes again)
I don't need shadowing.
HICCUP
Just in case. You know...it'll make me feel better.
Astrid gives him a pleased and flattered smile before snapping herself out of it.
ASTRID
Fine, just stay out of sight. If Alvin sees you, it'll all be over!
HICCUP
Don't worry about us. Just get the book and get out of there. We'll be waiting.
Astrid gives him another smile, not trying to hide it that time.
Fishlegs pushes the boat off the shore and into the water, and Astrid begins to float away slowly as the other's watch from the beach.
HICCUP
Hey, Astrid...be safe...
Astrid only offers a nod and one last smile before she gets further and further in the distance.
Hiccup watches her float away, a worried look in his eyes.
INT. BERK PRISON - NIGHT
Bucket enters the prison, carrying a bowl of soup.
BUCKET
Anyone in here, hungry? We've got a lovely cabbage soup tonight. Yummy!
He goes up to Heather's cell and notices that it's empty.
BUCKET
Aw, not again! Stoick's gonna kill me!
He opens the cell and walks in, looking around to still not see Heather and begins to panic a bit.
BUCKET
(muttering)
Oh, not good, not good, not good...
Up on the ceiling of the cell, though, Heather as wedged herself to stay between the linings in the ceiling and drops down onto Bucket, knocking him out.
Heather takes Bucket and drags him further into the cell, closing it behind her.
HEATHER
Sorry Bucket, but I have to get to Outcast island. And nothing is gonna stop me.
She turns and runs out of the prison, into he fog of the night.
EXT. OUTCAST ISLAND - NIGHT
A small boat drifts through a fog, just off the shore of Outcast Island. On the deck, Astrid, disguised as Heather, studies her map, then looks up at her surroundings. Her fear is evident, but she knows this is their best shot. The boat continues closer to land, giving her a chance to really absorb the unfamiliar scenery. She inspects the map again, then looks back up.
ASTRID
Whoa...
Something catches her attention from behind, and she gasps, ducking just in time to avoid a dive bomb from a local Monstrous Nightmare. She screams, but the creature flies away into the darkness, leaving her to watch. Climbing onto the beach, Astrid drags the boat ashore behind her. Map in hand, she circles the boat uneasily, trying to push her fears aside. An unexpected voice behind her makes her gasp.
SAVAGE
We thought you'd been captured.
She whirls around to see Savage, holding a crossbow. While he isn't pointing the weapon at her, the other Outcasts backing him from the rocky terrain have their aimed. Nervously, Astrid pats her hair, reassuring herself that her costume is in place and she can do this, then launches into her role as Heather.
ASTRID
I was! But I got away!
Savage steps forward, lowering his face to her level and peers at her in mock sincerity.
SAVAGE
Well...It's good to see you safe and sound.
He turns abruptly, calling to the Outcasts behind him, then glancing back at her menacingly.
SAVAGE
Get rid of her.
Astrid jerks back. This is clearly something she hadn't planned for and her eyes widen in shocked terror.
ASTRID
What?
SAVAGE
We don't need you anymore.
He nods callously, then turns to give the Outcasts a clear shot. Panic stricken, Astrid waves her hands to call him back, grappling for a reason to call off the attack.
ASTRID
Savage, wait! You do need me! I can prove it!
She motions to herself desperately. Her last line grabs Savage's attention, and though he doesn't turn, he does stop and raise his head.
ASTRID
You have the book, right?
The mention of the book sparks his interest and he turns, deciding maybe there's some value to what she's saying. Realizing they haven't succeeded with the book alone, Astrid continues planting doubts. She needs Savage to believe that without Heather's first hand experience, the book won't give them the answers they need.
ASTRID
I've watched them. I've learned from them. Trust me! That book is only worth something if you know how to use it.
Savage narrows his eyes, suspicious, but resigned. Astrid glares right back, smugly, knowing she won this round.
EXT. BERK - NIGHT
Heather makes her stealthy way through the shadows, sneaking up on Stormfly, peacefully sleeping in her little barn. Even her gentle hand on the dragon's head is enough to startle Stormfly awake, and she jerks upright, instinctively unleashing a volley of darts. They narrowly miss Heather, leaving her pressed against a wall, covering her face. She chastises herself for the mistake, pulling out a stray dart that has her sleeve pinned to the wall and slowly advancing forward.
HEATHER
Okay. Never startle a sleeping Nadder.
She puts her hands up and speaks softly, trying to calm the jumpy Nadder, all the while creeping toward her nearby saddle.
HEATHER
Hey, it's me girl. Your old pal, Heather.
Stormfly, now inquisitive rather than agitated, watches curiously, as Heather picks the saddle up.
HEATHER
You and I are gonna go on a little trip.
Heather creeps forward, slow and soothing, aware that her success rests on keeping the dragon calm.
HEATHER
I'm-I'm just gonna put this saddle on you.
As Heather rounds her with the saddle, Stormfly sniffs expectantly.
HEATHER
Sorry girl. No chicken tonight.
Though disappointed, Stormfly seems comfortable with Heather, and allows her to strap the saddle in place.
HEATHER
See? No big deal. Okay. Good girl!
She pulls herself up, pleased with her progress, while Stormfly smiles and snorts agreeably.
HEATHER
That wasn't so hard. Now. Let's go find Astrid.
At the mention of Astrid, Stormfly's enthusiasm skyrockets. She squawks and charges from the pen, taking Heather by surprise. Still unused to riding, Heather gasps and hoots as they take off, but quickly becomes settled, smiling and cheering Stormfly on.
HEATHER
Come girl, come on Stormfly! Yeah! Come on!
EXT. SEA - NIGHT
The other teens fly in a pack, headed for their meeting point with Astrid on Outcast Island. Hiccup leads the group, intent and anxious. Fishlegs' mouth pops open at the sight ahead of them and he turns to Hiccup, unhappy with what they're doing.
FISHLEGS
I wanna go on record as saying I'm not so sure about this plan, Hiccup.
Hiccup breaks his concentration to glare at him and point out their lack of other options.
HICCUP
If you have another one, I'm open.
Fishlegs' accents his growing concern with hand motions, trying to pin his hesitation on Meatlug.
FISHLEGS
I just think landing in a wild dragon nesting ground is really going to freak Meatlug out.
Not in the mood to coddle Fishlegs, Hiccup turns to sarcasm, egging him on with worse prospects.
HICCUP
Really? Well how does she feel about flaming arrows and catapults?
Increasingly fearful, Fishlegs continues protesting, while Hiccup becomes even more annoyed.
FISHLEGS
Uh, yeah she really doesn't like those, either.
HICCUP
Oh, you don't say?
Snotlout catches up to them, happy to add his arrogant commentary.
SNOTLOUT
Tell you what, Fishlegs... When we get there, you just lay back, and let the real dragons do the work.
Fishlegs, further distressed at the others' refusal to listen to reason, tries again to explain what they're getting into. As he speaks, the twins drift up behind him, one head of their Zippleback on either side.
FISHLEGS
Yeah... You really have no idea what a swarm of angry wild dragons are capable of.
They share an amused glance, happy for the chance to taunt Fishlegs.
TUFFNUT
You know what would be awesome?
He turns to Ruffnut for the answer, while Fishlegs watches him warily from the corner of his eye. Ruffnut picks up where Tuffnut left off. Teasing, she gleefully lists the things Fishlegs is terrified of.
RUFFNUT
Flaming arrows... Catapults...
She pauses to let Tuffnut join her, as they close in, surrounding Fishlegs, who is more panicked than ever.
RUFFNUT AND TUFFNUT
(in unison)
And wild dragons!
They fly off, joining the others and leaving Fishlegs with his own horrified thoughts.
FISHLEGS
That makes three of you.
EXT. OUTCAST ISLAND - NIGHT
The book rests in Alvin's hand as he examines a random page, questioning how much he really needs Heather's help.
ALVIN
Seems pretty straightforward to me.
He snaps it shut with one quick motion, as Astrid advances forward, insisting she is needed. Savage moves behind her, ready to restrain her if necessary.
ASTRID
It's anything but straightforward, Alvin.
Alvin looks bored, convinced it's a ruse and Heather is just insisting he needs her to avoid being killed.
ALVIN
If there's one thing I've learned, it's that people will say anything to keep themselves alive.
He leans in maliciously, directing his attention to Savage.
ALVIN
Isn't that right, Savage?
Savage immediately panders to Alvin, clearly having been on the wrong end of his violence more than once.
SAVAGE
Right! A-as usual, Alvin.
Astrid rolls her eyes, disgusted by his cowardice, but Alvin doesn't notice, chuckling before advancing menacingly, the book still in his hand.
ALVIN
See? Now you say I need you to interpret what's in this book, to use it properly. I say it's nothing but a ploy.
He gives her a threatening glare, but Astrid won't crumble that easily. She challenges him, exerting every confidence that he'll fail.
ASTRID
Fine. Give it a try.
Not to be put off, Alvin tosses the book to a nearby Outcast.
ALVIN
You heard the girl.
He stalks back to his seat, while the Outcast hesitantly opens the pages and lumbers toward a captured Nadder. He gulps nervously, watching it snap at another Outcast, busy trying to subdue it.
OUTCAST
Alright. Uh, seems easy enough.
He clearly wants nothing to do with the dragon, but Alvin's wrath is more threatening. He glances from the book to the dragon to Astrid.
OUTCAST
Uh... What kinda dragon is this?
All eyes turn to her and she sighs at their ineptitude, crossing her arms smugly.
ASTRID
It's a Deadly Nadder. You need the page number?
Nervously, the Viking turns back to the book, trying to reassure himself.
OUTCAST
Uh... Nope. Nope, nope, right here.
He reads the Nadder entry carefully, while the dragon grooms itself, nipping lightly at its wing.
OUTCAST
Deadly Nadder. Likes to preen. Very sure of itself. Uh, constant grooming. Hmm, alright, we'll appeal to its vanity.
Alvin nods, consuming the new knowledge, while Astrid shakes her head, unimpressed. The Outcast steps up to the jittery Nadder.
OUTCAST
Well, you, uh, certainly are a lovely girl.
His efforts are well received and the dragon squawks, leaning in for more praise. Instead, the Outcast inadvertently insults her.
OUTCAST
O-or are you a handsome boy? Wh-who can tell?
She stops abruptly and growls, the spikes on her tail standing on end. Astrid lunges for a shield on the ground and tumbles in front of him just in time. The spikes land firmly in the shield. She looks immediately at Alvin, who quickly fixes his shocked expression. Smug and self-assured, she throws the shield to his feet.
ASTRID
Like I said. The book can only get you so far, Alvin.
He returns her knowing smirk with a glare.
EXT. OUTCAST ISLAND - NIGHT
The other teens and their dragons race toward Outcast Island, looming in the distance. Despite a lack of wild dragons, Fishlegs is still looking around, waiting for the worst, when Hiccup turns to him casually.
HICCUP
You see this, Fishlegs? You got yourself all worked up for nothin'.
He pulls ahead, leaving Fishlegs unconvinced. Flying past massive towers of stone, they're almost to the island when Toothless signals his agitation. Ahead of are several unfamiliar dragons.
FISHLEGS
Umm... You were saying?
The territorial dragons snarl and snap at the intruders, clearly wanting to drive them off. Instead, Hiccup pushes forward, reminding the others what they're supposed to do.
HICCUP
Guys, remember! Stick to the plan! No matter how crazy it gets.
Snotlout pulls closer, pumping his fist enthusiatically before realizing he's forgotten the plan.
SNOTLOUT
Crazy? I love crazy! Bring it! Wait! What's the plan again?
The wild dragons rush forward, ready to attack the group head on. Instead, the teens and their dragons pull up, flying above them.
HICCUP
Now! Fire!
He tips the basket on his back, unleashing a load of fish to the dragons below, with the others following suit. The plan works and the wild dragons swoop below, greedily snapping up the fish, but leaving the teens and their dragons alone.
FISHLEGS
That's sweet!
Pleased with the outcome, the group celebrates their victory, watching the dragons fly away. Snotlout raises one remaining fish over his head as he cheers.
SNOTLOUT
Yes! We did it! Stupid dragons!
A wild Nadder darts in unexpectedly, clamping onto the fish and dragging Snotlout away in the process. It shakes the fish, trying to loosen his grasp, but to no avail. The dragon grabs his leg in its other paw, trying to pull him off the fish, but still he fights. Hiccup flies behind him, urging him to let go.
HICCUP
Would you just let go of the fish? I'll catch you!
Snotlout angrily persists, not wanting to let go of his fish.
SNOTLOUT
No! That's my lunch!
HICCUP
Now!
Finally, the dragon wins, yanking Snotlout away from the fish and dropping him. He lands neatly behind Hiccup on Toothless. The dragon stops atop a nearby peak, laughing, as the group closes the last short gap to Outcast territory.
EXT. OUTCAST ARENA - DAY
A heavy hand shoves Astrid, still disguised as Heather into the doorway of the Outcast's arena. Savage, the owner of the hand, and Alvin step up behind her, ready to see what she can show them. Instead of entering, she turns, open palm held out expectantly.
ALVIN
What is it?
He glares, clearly ready to be done with her, but she holds her ground, innocently waiting for the manual.
ASTRID
The book. I need it.
He narrows his eyes, suspicious with her intentions, but she's ready with a plausible excuse.
ASTRID
Well, I didn't memorize it.
Still calculating, he gives in, dropping the heavy book into her waiting hands. She has half a second of relief before he shoves her harshly into the dome and slams the heavy door behind her. She clutches it to her chest, sending Alvin an irritated look before turning to look at the dragon's lair. Squeezing her eyes shut, she begs luck to be on her side.
ASTRID
(to herself)
Please be a Nadder, please be a Nadder, please be a Nadder, please be a Nadder.
Her eyes open, filled with fear as she cautiously watches the opening, waiting to see what comes out. Her chant continues.
ASTRID
Please be a Nadder, please be a Nadder.
The bars in the entrance vanish as if they'd never been there, and an angry, flaming Monstrous Nightmare bursts from the darkness. Disappointed, she grumbles and rolls her eyes at her misfortune.
ASTRID
Ugh. Great.
Agitated, she opens the book flipping through to the Monstrous Nightmare entry. At the sound of Alvin's voice, she turns to glare from the corner of her eyes.
ALVIN
Well? I'm waiting.
He makes a sweeping gesture in a show of his thinning patience. Not wasting any more time on him, Astrid turns back to the dragon. She's clearly nervous, but does a great job maintaining her composure as she prepares herself to approach the Nightmare.
ASTRID
Alright, big boy. It's you and me.
She steps slowly toward the skittish dragon, holding her hand out in an attempt to calm him. He circles for moment, immediately bursting into flames when he feels she's too close. The blast knocks backward, off her feet. Alvin watches, initially surprised, then intrigued as he tries to figure out what she's doing. She quickly climbs back to her feet, determined to find a different strategy.
ASTRID
Okay. Check that off the list. How 'bout the direct approach.
From a combative stance, she aggressively charges the dragon clamping onto his tail. Alvin watches, more impressed with the show, as Savage, now interested, joins him.
ALVIN
Our little Heather is feistier than I remember.
Despite her best efforts at clinging to him, the dragon effortlessly whips his tail, sending Astrid crashing into one of the arena's walls. No longer impressed, Alvin shouts at her from his watching spot.
ALVIN
This isn't anything my soldiers haven't already tried. You'll need to do better.
Wincing from the pain, Astrid pulls herself back up, lamenting her position as she scrambles to find a new tactic.
ASTRID
Ugh! The one time I wish Snotlout was here.
Her eyes spring open as an idea comes to her. She meets the gaze of the dragon, slowly advancing toward her.
ASTRID
Snotlout!
She charges him head on, fast and fearlessly, leaping at just the right moment to land on his face and grab hold of his horns. Extremely agitated, the Nightmare flails frantically, trying to shake her. When he can't, he butts his head hard against the wall, pinning her there. Alvin watches in silence before shrugging nonchalantly. He didn't learn anything new, but he did get rid of Heather.
ALVIN
Well. That's the end of that.
Savage stops him, pointing in amazement at the movement below.
SAVAGE
Wait! Look.
Astrid is alive and well, struggling with every bit of her power to push the massive head away from the wall.
ASTRID
Urgh! These things don't budge!
With a powerful shove, she uses herself as a wedge, clinging to the dragon's horns, with her legs planted firmly against the wall. She gazes deep into his eyes for a moment, then repels from the wall, driving the dragons horns to the ground. Alvin watches in astonishment, then cheers joyfully.
ALVIN
What!? Oh ho! I told you she knew what she was doing!
Savage rolls his eyes, going along out of fear for his life, rather than actual agreement.
SAVAGE
Yes, you certainly did.
The Nightmare's tongue hangs from his mouth, as he blissfully allows Astrid to climb onto his neck. She slumps, exhausted, then pats the side of his face, more than ready for both of them to make their escape.
ASTRID
Ugh! What do you say we get outta here?
He likes that idea and stands, ready for take off as she reaches down, snagging the Dragon Manual. Outcasts charge through the gate, ready to stop them, but the Nightmare fires on them, happy to fight back. The Outcasts out of the way, they prepare to leave, but Alvin calls to stop her.
ALVIN
Going somewhere Heather?
Belligerently, she shouts back to him, but he's unconcerned as Savage ushers a man and woman to the rail next to Alvin.
ASTRID
As far away from this place as possible!
ALVIN
Without your parents?
He gestures to the couple, and Astrid's face falls, puzzled. Having truly believed Heather only made that story up, the revelation of her parents comes as quite a shock.
ASTRID
(to herself)
Parents? She was telling the truth?
She looks up at Alvin, troubled by the new development, while Heather's parents huddle fearful, but brave, beside him. He leans in maliciously, calling down his offer.
ALVIN
I might see my way clear to trading 'em for that book.
Astrid looks down, struggling to calculate a new plan. She's unwilling to leave the book, but she can't leave Heather's parents, either.
ALVIN
Or you can leave and I'll kill 'em.
She looks back at him, horror stricken and unsure what she's going to do next.
OUTCAST ISLAND - KILL RING - DAY
Alvin brings in Heather's parents to the kill ring.
Astrid stands in the center, the book in her hand, the Nightmare docile behind her. Heather's parents hold each other, frightened.
ALVIN
Well, let's have it.
ASTRID
Send them over first!
ALVIN
Fine...
With one hand he shoves his captives toward Astrid.
ALVIN
Off yeh go.
Heather's parents slow as they near Astrid. They can see that this isn't their daughter. Despite the situation, they share a bewildered look.
Afraid that Alvin will catch on by their hesitation, Astrid runs to them.
ASTRID
(shouting)
Mom! Dad!
She pulls them into what looks like a hug.
ASTRID
(quietly)
I'm a friend of Heather's. I'm here to help.
ALVIN
You do realize I'll never let you out of here with that book.
Astrid peeks around Heather's mom.
ASTRID
No kidding!
(quietly to the Heathers)
When I tell you, drop to the ground. It's about to get really hot in here!
ALVIN
Oh, Heather! I'm waiting.
Alvin holds out a hand expectantly. Astrid glares at him and then throws the book in the air. Alvin follows the book with his eyes, taking his attention off his captives.
ASTRID
(to the Heathers)
Now!
Heather's parents throw themselves to the ground. Astrid turns to the Nightmare behind her.
ASTRID
Sorry boy!
Astrid punches Nightmare in the snout and dives away. The Nightmare's body ignites, causing all the Outcasts to shield their faces. As the Nightmare scurries off, Astrid jumps up from the ground and runs to book.
Alvin recovers, sees this, and grabs a bola from his subordinate. He launches it at the would-be escapees and catches Heather's father by the legs. He falls.
Astrid just picks up the book when she hears the mother's scream. She runs back to help them.
She drops the book to help Heather's father. Alvin approaches and she dives back on the book. Alvin chuckles, reaches down, and picks Astrid up by the back of her head. He pulls the book out of her hands and she struggles fruitlessly in his grasp.
ALVIN
(tisking)
Heather, heather, heather...
Something feels amiss about her hair. He pulls his hand back to examine it.
ALVIN
Aye!
His hand is tinted black by the hair dye. He narrows his eyes down at Astrid and his hand curls into a fist.
ALVIN
Or are yeh?
EXT. OUTSIDE OF OUTCAST ISLAND - DAY
Hiccup continues to wait for Astrid alongside Toothless. His leg taps against the rock he sits on impatiently. He stands as he spots something approaching in the distance.
HICCUP
There's Astrid!
Fishlegs is behind him with an arm around Meatlug. He points.
FISHLEGS
Who's that with her?
As they near, Heather's parents are seen just behind Astrid.
HICCUP (O.S.)
I don't know...
Astrid gives a small wave lifting three fingers.
HICCUP
But that's the signal.
Hiccup climbs atop Toothless, who is ready to fly.
HICCUP
Okay,let's go bud!
They launch off the rock they had been waiting on. Toothless swoops in and lands next to Astrid. Heather's parents are alarmed.
HICCUP
Who's this?
ASTRID
Heather's parents.
(muttering)
She was telling the truth. Just go with the plan.
Hiccup startles and looks around him to see Outcasts emerging from the surrounding trees, weapons raised.
Alvin approaches with Savage behind him.
ALVIN
Oi! There they are! Get 'em!
The Outcasts close in around them, preventing escape. Alvin chuckles.
ALVIN
Heh heh, Hiccup. Bet you're surprised to see me.
HICCUP
(flippant)
Eh, not really. This is where you live, right?
Toothless isn't so calm. He snarls. Hiccup pat's his head.
HICCUP
Easy bud. Looks like he's got us. This time.
ALVIN
You know, Hiccup. With this book, your knowledge of dragons, and my knowledge of warfare, we could make quite the team. How's that sound?
Hiccup begins to count on his fingers.
HICCUP
Uh, insane? demented? delusional? stupid?
ALVIN
Alright then, we'll just have to agree to disagree. You're a smart boy, Hiccup. You know I can't let you leave the island.
HICCUP
And you're a smart, murderous, barbarian, Alvin. You know I have a better plan than this.
ALVIN
So do I.
Hiccup and Alvin each call out to their comrades.
HICCUP
Now!
ALVIN
Now!
Fishlegs, the twins and Snotlout fly out of hiding and attack the Outcasts. Snotlout lands in front of three Outcasts and Hookfang fires at them. Fishlegs barrels his Gronkle into a Viking. The twins have their Zippleback toss a Viking in between them. Astrid grins watching this.
Hidden Outcasts begin to fire crossbows from the trees. As Meatlug knocks Vikings around a net is thrown over him and his rider. Fishlegs panics from within.
FISHLEGS
This wasn't a part of the plan, Hiccup!
A couple Outcasts manage to catch a rope around the Zippleback's neck. The heads are pulled together and their riders are thrown to the ground. The twins land on top of each other.
TUFFNUT
Yeoch!
Vikings continue to close in on Hiccup and Toothless. Toothless fires a plasma blast at three impending Outcasts but its rendered useless by their shields. The Vikings charge.
Astrid knocks a Viking aside and steals his shield.
HICCUP
Look out!
Hookfang fires at more Outcasts while backing up to level with Hiccup.
SNOTLOUT
There's too many of them!
Hiccup ducks as arrows sail over their heads. One nearly strikes Tuffnut, who is just lifting himself off of his sister. Ruffnut gets a good look at the chaos around them.
RUFFNUT
Woah, woah woah!
Astrid glares at the Outcasts from behind the shield she stole.
ASTRID
We're never getting out of here!
Hiccup stares at her, surprised.
A shadow passes over head. The net covering Fishlegs and Meatlug is ripped off. A jet of fire destroys the rope tying down the Barf and Belch.
Astrid looks to the skies, hopeful.
ASTRID
Is that...?
A Nadder with a rider can be seen amongst the thick, dark clouds.
HEATHER
Yeah!
Hiccup smiles.
HICCUP
Heather!
ASTRID
(happily)
Stormfly!
ALVIN
(angrily)
What? Heather!
Stormfly and Heather land just before Astrid. Astrid runs and embraces Stormfly's beak.
ASTRID
(to Heather)
I'm sorry I didn't believe you!
HEATHER
It's okay. I wouldn't have believed me either.
ASTRID
Now let's get your parents.
Astrid climbs onto Stormfly and sits in front of Heather. All the dragons take off into the sky.
Heather's parents hold each other as they are surrounded by Outcasts. Stormfly swoops in and grabs each on in her talons, pulling them from danger.
HEATHER
Mom, dad, hang on!
The twins are still on the ground as Outcasts close in around them. Barf and Belch jump onto the scene and scare them off. The twins get up, laugh, and high five each other.
From the sky, Hiccup begins to order a new attack.
HICCUP
Alright guys, just like we practiced!
All the teens are on their dragons and airborne.
HICCUP
Ruffnut: cover fire!
RUFFNUT
It's about time.
The twins dive down on the lined up catapults. Belch covers the weapons with gas.
TUFFNUT
I love this part! Wait for it...
He yanks on Barf's horns just as they clear the weapons. Barf sparks the gas and it explodes. They fly safely away, leaving the burning catapults in their wake.
Another catapult launches a boulder at Hiccup. Hiccup swerves out of the way, putting Meatlug and Fishlegs in its path.
HICCUP
Fishlegs! Incoming!
Meatlug catches the boulder in her mouth and devours the boulder.
FISHLEGS
Woah! Nice catch girl! Lava blast!
They zoom toward the catapult and Meatlug fires the lava blast it. The metal of it becomes molten and the Outcasts run away.
FISHLEGS
That's it Meatlug!
From behind Astrid, Heather watches everything with excitement.
HEATHER
Yeah!
Outcasts continue to fire at Stormfly with their crossbows. Astrid dives her Nadder to the side.
ASTRID
Now, Snotlout!
From below, Hookfang lights up.
SNOTLOUT
Go for it!
Hookfang flies over the Outcasts and Stormfly sends her tail spines through the flames. The ignited spines rain down on the Outcasts. They abandon their posts to get to safety.
Hookfang loses his flame and Snotlout cheers at the results.
SNOTLOUT
Yeeehaaaw! You feelin' the heat boys? Cause I sure am!
Hiccup and Toothless swing away from the burning ruins of the Outcast forest.
HICCUP
Great job, guys. Let's get out of here.
All the dragons follow suit. From the ground, Alvin watches them leave.
ALVIN
They're getting away!
(to Savage)
Stop them!
He bodily lives Savage and throws him in a surviving catapult.
SAVAGE
(nervous)
Shouldn't we test this first?
Alvin hits the lever of the catapult and Savage goes flying.
SAVAGE
AAAAHHHH!
He manages to knock Astrid off of a retreating Stormfly. Together they fall back down to the forest.
Hiccup is horrified.
Astrid manages to save herself by catching hold of a branch. The branch cracks under her weight, then breaks off entirely. She hits the ground.
As she slowly lifts herself up she notices Alvin standing over her. He grins meanly and reaches down.
ALVIN
Why you little-
He lifts her, throws her over his shoulder, and runs off.
HICCUP
Astrid!
Hiccup directs Toothless to chase him down. Toothless fires plasma bolts at Alvin's feet but the man is too fast. They chase Alvin right to a cliff's edge. Toothless lands, block Alvin from escape.
Alvin holds Astrid over the cliff with one hand. He points one finger at Hiccup threateningly.
ALVIN
Surrender! Or I'll...
He continues to dangle Astrid over the cliff's edge, making it clear that he'll drop her if Hiccup doesn't do what he says.
ALVIN
Eheheh, you know the rest.
Hiccup looks determined and pats Toothless on the head twice. They'll take their chances.
HICCUP
Do it bud.
Toothless rears on his hind legs and opens his mouth. He prepares to fire at Alvin.
Astrid looks back and sees the Nightmare she bonded with earlier silently approaching from below.
ASTRID
Hiccup! Don't shoot!
Toothless swallows back the blast and returns to all fours.
The Nightmare swings up, catching Alvin off guard, and knocking both he and Astrid to the ground. Astrid smiles up at the Nightmare. She grabs the book from Alvin and then grams a hold of the Nightmare's offered paw. She is flying away on the Nightmare before Alvin can pick himself up off the ground.
Hiccup catches up with her.
HICCUP
Who is that?
ASTIRD
Just a new friend I made.
Alvin watches them fly away. He lost the book and his leverage. Instead of angry, he looks amazed. He points after them.
ALVIN
(to Savage)
Did you see that? That dragon came for her. It protected her!
SAVAGE
Bonded with her. We need to get that book back, Alvin!
ALVIN
Oh, we need more than that book. We need that boy.
EXT. HOOLIGAN HARBOR - DAY
Heather and her family prepare to sail home from Berk. Heather bids Astrid, Hiccup and Toothless goodbye from the docks of Hooligan Harbor.
HEATHER
I can't thank you enough. Especially you, Astrid. You put your life on the line for us. I'll never forget that.
She steps forward and hugs Astrid. Astrid is shocked for a moment, but then returns it. Heather pulls away and turns to Hiccup and Toothless. Hiccup opens his arms but she moves straight to Toothless, giving his head a gentle pat.
HEATHER
I'm gonna miss you.
(to Hiccup)
Both of you.
Hiccup shrugs.
HICCUP
Eh, who knows. Maybe we'll see each other again sometime.
HEATHER
Maybe we will.
HICCUP
Just promise me one thing: If you need help again, you'll ask.
HEATHER
I will. I promise.
She smiles at them one last time and turns to join her parents at the boat. She jumps aboard just as it's setting sail and gives them a wave farewell. Astrid and Hiccup wave back.
HICCUP (V.O.)
Ever since dragons showed up on Berk, we've learned to expect the unexpected.
Heather continues to wave as the boat moves past other docks. Snotlout is at the end of one. He makes a writing motion with his hand.
SNOTLOUT
(whispers)
Write me.
Heather shakes her head no.
HICCUP (V.O)
But every once in a while something or someone comes along that surprises us. And when that happens you kind of hate to see them go.
Hiccup, Astrid and Toothless watch the boat fade into the horizon. Astrid and Hiccup share a look. Astrid punches Hiccup in the arm.
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