Chapter 38 – The Beginning of Training
The next day, Thor stood in the training field, surrounded by the smell of burnt wood and hot iron. The light morning wind rustled the banners and flags marking the perimeter, causing them to flap and ripple like restless spirits. The ground beneath them was rough with dirt and small stones, worn by countless steps and practice sessions, and the faint scent of wet earth mixed with the lingering smoke from the forge nearby. Hiccup, Fish-Leg, Hot-Head, and Snotlout were already equipped with their new weapons, which gleamed brightly under the rising sun, reflecting specks of light onto their focused faces.
Thor's gaze swept over the young warriors, serious yet full of care.
— Well, now that you have your weapons, there are some important things you need to know.
Hiccup tilted his head, curiosity shining in his eyes.
— What things, brother?
Thor inhaled deeply, feeling the weight of responsibility pressing on his shoulders.
— Even though you have powerful weapons, you are still ordinary humans. This means that if you aren't careful while using them, you could end up dead.
He turned to Hiccup, his eyes locking onto his brother with firm intensity.
— Attack me with your weapon.
Hiccup's face hardened with concentration. He drew his sword, and as soon as it left its sheath, the blade burst into bright flames, crackling and hissing like a miniature inferno. He charged with a blazing strike, the heat distorting the air around him. Thor moved with smooth, calculated steps, dodging effortlessly, but the heat seared the ground and left blackened scorch marks behind. Sparks danced along the dirt with each swing, and the smell of smoke mixed with the faint metallic tang of the weapon.
Hiccup pushed further, increasing the sword's temperature and pressure, forcing Thor to respond with precise, controlled movements. It was as if he were dancing through fire, fluid and graceful, yet every swing carried immense power. Sweat ran down the warriors' foreheads, their breaths quickened, and their eyes widened in awe at the sheer intensity of the demonstration.
After several moments, Hiccup's legs began to tremble. He dropped to his knees, breathing heavily, the heat of the weapon pressing against him like a living weight. The smell of burning metal and faintly singed air hung thickly around the training ground, making everyone swallow nervously.
Thor approached calmly, his steps measured.
— See? This is the danger I mentioned. Even though the weapons are powerful, your bodies are still human. The more power you use, the more weight and effort your body will have to endure.
Hiccup lifted his eyes, worry shadowing his face.
— And what if we go beyond that limit?
The others glanced at each other, tension rippling through the group. Snotlout's voice was low and cautious:
— Yes… what happens to us?
Thor's eyes moved across them all, his tone firm and commanding.
— It depends on the power of each weapon. In your case, Hiccup, if the temperature gets too high, you could literally burn alive. Fish-Leg's shield, if used past its limit, will grow heavier as the defense strengthens, eventually crushing the one who wields it.
The young warriors went pale. Fear and understanding settled in their stomachs. Silence enveloped the training field, broken only by the occasional crackle of weapons and the rustle of the flags above. The weight of responsibility, both for themselves and for Berk, pressed down on them like a tangible force.
Thor clapped his hands sharply, breaking the tension.
— These weapons are not toys. Be careful. Now… let's begin training!
The warriors moved into position, each strike, block, and step guided under Thor's vigilant eye. The sound of blades slicing through air, shields clashing, and weapons striking the ground echoed like distant thunder across the field. Thor's voice rang out, correcting postures, adjusting tempo, and demonstrating control, his presence both inspiring and intimidating.
Outside the field, Astrid, Moana, and Shiro observed with keen interest. The breeze teased their hair, carrying the mingled scents of earth, sweat, and the forge's smoke. Moana glanced at Astrid, her expression filled with curiosity.
— Shouldn't we train too? After all, we received weapons as well.
Astrid's smile was gentle but firm, reassuring her friend.
— No, Moana. We'll travel together. He can teach us during the journey on the ship. Right now, he needs to focus on them for the next two days before we depart.
Moana exhaled softly, a hint of disappointment in her breath, yet she nodded in understanding.
— So we'll leave in two days… how fast time passed.
Astrid's eyes met hers with unwavering confidence.
— Don't worry. He will help us save your village.
Moana's smile returned, hope and relief shining in her expression.
— Yes, thank you so much.
Training continued with intensity. The sun climbed higher in the sky, its rays beating down, making each movement heavier, each breath deeper. Thor scrutinized every detail, ensuring each strike, block, and maneuver was executed perfectly. Sweat soaked clothing, dust rose with each step, and the ground bore the marks of relentless practice.
Sparks and small flames from the weapons lit up the air, reflecting in the eyes of the young warriors. The sight was a constant reminder: the power they wielded demanded discipline, respect, and responsibility. Each swing of their weapons was a lesson, every step a measure of endurance, and every faltering moment a warning of the consequences that lay beyond recklessness.
As the day stretched on, the training ground became more than just a place to fight—it became a crucible, forging courage, strength, and understanding, preparing them for the dangers that awaited beyond the borders of Berk.