Chapter 1: A Brief History of Stoic the Vast as told by Astrid
It was the year 1021 by the reckoning of the continentals when the child Stoic Haddock was born to the chief of Berk. By the time that he was five, it was clear that the child was going a Viking prodigy. As he got older, it become increasingly apparent that he was a true prodigy, and he surpassed all expectations. But, as he got older, the dragon raids became more frequent; Berk could no longer afford to send raiding parties south. Instead, they became more isolated as they poured more resources into fighting the dragon scourge.
When Stoic turned 16, he had his Sjelstyrk. It is important to note that Sjelstyrks are rare and only occurs once in every five people. Sjelstyrk is "soul strength," and it allows people to manifest their souls. For some people, this manifestation comes in enhancements to physical abilities, and for others, it allows them to spirit walk. Others still have stranger abilities. There are many stories of people whose Sjelstyrk allows them to possess animals and see through their eyes. There is even a legend of people could enforce their will on the elements themselves with Sjelstyrk.
Stoic's Sjelstyrk was notable because it does not tire him out. His Sjelstyrk physically enhances his strength and speed, and unlike others with Sjelstyrk abilities, who tire out within minutes of activating them, Stoic could keep using his Sjelstyrk for days. Stoic's ability made him the greatest dragon fighter of all time. When his father died, he became chief and the village became prosperous. The man is the champion of Berk, and the only reason the village still stands.
Stoic earned the title Vast for his battle prowess (Although I think more than that went into the title). In a twist of irony, his son is nearly the polar opposite to him. Having a fitting name, Hiccup causes almost as much damage as his father does good. To start, he's small, weak, and unable to do much of anything. He also seems to be unable to follow the simplest orders. To top it all off, disaster seems to follow Hiccup like a starved dog.
The gods would never grant Hiccup Sjelstyrk because of how much of a failure he is. I, on the other hand, am the greatest Viking of my generation, Astrid Hofferson. When my 16th birthday comes, I'll be the first Hofferson in living memory to have Sjelstyrk, I'm sure of it. I hope that my Sjelstyrk comes in the form of physical enhancements, because it would complement my training wonderfully. Just think, I could land an axe in a dragon's skull from across the village! Dragon training starts in a week, and my birthday is in two. I'm not sure how I will manage to wait.
AN: I have a really awesome idea for this story, and the plot is already done. All I need now is motivation and maybe a few more story telling skills. This story will focus on Hiccup, but I have plans for serval side plots of the other characters. Please Review.