Chapter 36– The Oath and the Weapons
After breakfast, Thor, Astrid, Shiro, and Moana headed to the forge to see the weapons ready with Bocão and Hiccup. The morning sun shone through the village, casting a golden glow on the wooden buildings and the bustling streets of Berk. The smell of freshly baked bread still lingered in the air, mixing with the scent of burning coal from the forge.
Thor looked at Moana with a warm smile, his eyes reflecting the sunlight.
— So, how are you feeling after these days here in Berk?
Moana smiled back, her excitement barely contained as she adjusted her hair from the breeze.
— Good… everyone has been really nice to me. I've never felt so welcome in a new place before.
Thor laughed softly, reaching out to gently ruffle her hair. He quickly remembered, however, that Moana was not his wife, and he withdrew his hand, with embarrassment.
— Sorry… — he murmured, unable to hide a small grin.
— It's okay, I don't mind — Moana replied, her smile genuine and encouraging.
Astrid, who had been watching the interaction with a mischievous glint in her eyes, gave Thor a sharp nudge with her elbow. He laughed heartily and scooped Astrid up into his arms, holding her as if she were a delicate princess.
— Well, my jealous wife! — he teased.
Astrid's cheeks flushed red as she realized everyone's eyes were on them. She pressed her face against Thor's chest, mumbling softly:
— Put me down…
— No, I think I'll keep my jealous princess in my arms a little longer, just so you understand how much I love you — Thor replied, his smile widening.
Moana, standing to the side, watched the scene unfold and laughed softly, already familiar with the playful banter between the couple. The warmth of friendship and family radiated through the small group, making the moment feel lighter and more personal.
When they arrived at the forge, Thor leaned down and kissed Astrid on the forehead before gently setting her on the wooden floor. Bocão, who had been waiting with an anxious expression, exclaimed loudly:
— By Odin, you finally arrived!
Thor's gaze shifted to him, calm but focused.
— Are the weapons ready?
— Yes, come with me — Bocão replied, motioning them toward the center of the forge, where the heat of molten metal and the rhythmic hammering of blacksmiths created an almost magical atmosphere.
At that moment, Hiccup finished placing the weapons on the counter. Thor stepped closer, his eyes scanning each blade and piece of armor with meticulous attention. He made sure that every weapon could endure the immense power he would channel through them. After a careful examination, he nodded in satisfaction.
— Good work.
Thor then began to use his contract power on the weapons, imbuing each piece with carefully selected abilities. Sparks flew, and the air was filled with the crackle of electricity as flames and thunder swirled around him. Bocão and Hiccup stepped back instinctively, their faces reflecting awe and admiration.
After some time, Thor finished, feeling a slight dizziness from the exertion. Astrid and Moana supported him on either side, steadying him.
— Are you okay? — they asked, their voices filled with genuine concern.
— I'm fine — Thor reassured them with a smile, though a faint shimmer of fatigue lingered in his eyes. Then he turned to Hiccup, giving him precise instructions:
— Bring Perna de Peixe, Cabeça Dura, Melequento, and Cabeça Quente. I need to give them the weapons.
Hiccup nodded and hurried off, weaving through the forge's busy workshop to gather the chosen warriors.
Half an hour later, Thor, fully recovered, rose from Astrid and Moana's embrace. He arranged the weapons carefully at the front of the forge, their metal surfaces gleaming under the light. Hiccup returned, guiding the group of young warriors toward Thor.
— How are you all? — Thor asked, his voice firm but encouraging. — Hiccup must have explained my plan, but before you take these weapons, there's something you need to know. This applies to you too, my brother.
Thor's expression hardened as he continued, his tone serious and commanding:
— The moment you take these weapons, it means you're willing to fight to protect Berk, our home. So… are you willing to protect our family?
The young warriors stepped forward one by one, determination burning in their eyes. Thor gestured toward the weapons, each engraved with a name, a promise, and a legacy.
— If you have this determination, step forward and take your weapons.
Hiccup, with a steady gaze, stepped forward.
— I know I may not be able to protect everyone like you, but I'll do my best to protect them all, just like you.
He picked up the sword with his name, which immediately ignited with flames as if recognizing his vow. Stoic, watching from the side, gave a faint smile. His son truly was becoming a great man, worthy of the legacy he carried.
Thor turned to the remaining warriors.
— And you? What's your answer?
One by one, they stepped forward, grabbing their weapons with resolve. Melequento spoke first:
— After everything we've been through, we won't be afraid now.
Cabeça Dura added, his voice firm and unwavering:
— Yes! No matter the enemy. With these weapons, they'll see what we're made of!
Thor glanced at the crowd of villagers gathered outside the forge. The pride and unity in their faces inspired him. He raised his voice so everyone could hear:
— Let's welcome our warriors! Let the celebration begin!
The crowd erupted in cheers, and villagers began preparing for the festivities. Thor stepped back slightly, settling in a quiet corner with Astrid, Moana, and Shiro. Shiro rested comfortably in his lap, while Astrid leaned her head against his shoulder.
— Why didn't you ask Moana and me if we wanted to join this mission? — Astrid asked, curiosity shining in her eyes.
Thor's smile was calm, filled with warmth and reassurance.
— Well… you're already willing to go on this dangerous mission with me. There was no need to ask. And Moana, even though she's just an ordinary girl, went on an adventure to help her village and find a goddess. I didn't think I needed to test your courage and determination.
Astrid smiled, finally understanding, and Moana simply nodded, proud to be there with them, feeling the strength of family and friendship binding them together as they prepared for the challenges ahead.