Well, it varies. Sometimes the fanfiction makes it a turning point for Hiccup's character development, leading to new skills or a change in his outlook. Other times, it's used to deepen the bonds between characters as they work to prevent his death.
In this kind of fanfiction, there could be various scenarios. Maybe Tails gets into a fight with a really powerful enemy, like a new super - villain. The villain might have some sort of weapon or power that nearly defeats Tails. For example, a weapon that can disrupt his flight or his mechanical abilities.
Fanfictions about Naruto being neglected and nearly dying can be quite intense. Some might depict him being pushed to the brink by the lack of support from the village. For example, he could be deprived of proper training or basic necessities. However, these situations usually lead to Naruto's character growth in a different way than in the original series. He might form unexpected alliances with outcasts or find new powers within himself.
They exist to add more drama and tension. Hermione is a beloved character, and putting her in a life - threatening situation amps up the emotional stakes for the readers.
In some fanfictions, Hermione could be in a situation where she's exploring a dangerous, ancient magical ruin. There could be a series of traps, and she almost dies when she accidentally triggers a deadly one. Her intelligence and quick thinking, along with the help of her friends, might be the only things that save her in the end.
Another reason is that it allows for different interpretations of the magic in the Merlin universe. When Merlin is in a life - or - death situation due to his magic or something related to it, the fanfiction can introduce new concepts about how magic works, what its limits are, and how it can be both a curse and a blessing. This exploration of magic is very appealing to fans of the show.
One popular 'Merlin almost dies' fanfiction might be 'The Brink of Eternity'. In this fic, Merlin is poisoned during a battle and his friends race against time to save him. It's full of intense moments and shows the deep bond between the characters.
Definitely Naruto. He's always been there for Sakura, no matter what. He would use his Nine - Tails chakra if he had to in order to save her. Sakura's female friends like Ino could also play a role in her rescue. Ino is a skilled ninja in her own right and has a deep friendship with Sakura. And don't forget Tsunade. As the Fifth Hokage and Sakura's mentor in the medical field, she would do everything she could to save Sakura's life.
In some fanfictions, a heartbreaking scene might be when Hiccup sacrifices himself to save Astrid from a powerful enemy. He might push her out of harm's way just as a deadly attack is about to land on her, and then he takes the full brunt of it. The moment when Astrid realizes what he's done and rushes to his side, crying and begging him not to leave, would be extremely sad.
Astrid might initially be in shock. She could just stand there, frozen, unable to believe that Hiccup is really gone. Her eyes wide open and her body trembling as she tries to process what has just happened.