[ for how frequently it happens, hiccup seems to always forget how surprising having a dragon at your heels can be for other people. not that he can really do much for that, really--there was leaving toothless at home, but that's not really an option.

so, souza's sudden surprise doesn't shock this one at all. he tries not to hint at any this again thoughts he may have had, because yes, some of the surprised reactions are kind of amusing--but they also get kind of exhausting, sometimes (mainly because there's no "run for the hills" kind of reactions here). understandable, however. no dragons where people are from... he gets that. ]

Uh, we're used to it! Don't worry about it. Slightly surprised gasps aren't even the worst we've gotten. [ like, he could be pointing that sword at them. that's a thing. ] If anything, I should be the one saying sorry. You know, walking up with a big dragon and no explanation... What was I thinking?

[ the struggle. ]