Author's Note: Yay! Chapter 1 isn't complete garbage anymore! Chapter 3 is currently in the works right now. I just had to deal with the monstrosity that was my first chapter. Please review the story! I'm always looking for ways to improve my story!
Chapter 1: Finding My Calling
Oliver
Today was… different. I chose to try something today! I made a decision for myself! Most of the time, I just follow along with whatever my only friend, Eric, chooses to do.
Eric and I have grown up together. He's really the only friend I've ever had. It's not that I'm some kind of antisocial mutton-head; I just prefer to spend my time alone. Eric's the only person who really talked to me when we were kids. I'm not sure if it was because he was four years older than me or not, but I always followed him around. I'd do whatever he told me.
I don't really understand why I've continued being his friend. The older we get, the more we disagree and fight. The only reason I can come up with is nostalgia.
When we were younger, I used to look up to Eric. I saw him as a brave and powerful hero. I'm not saying that he's a coward or that he's weak, but circumstances haven't given him the chance to really prove otherwise.
Eric's a bit of a snob. He's always talking about how he's the only person our age that deserves to ride a dragon. Granted, his no one else on Berk has parents who were Dragon Riders.
I know Eric would hate what I plan on doing. Maybe that's the entire point of this. When Chief Hiccup stood in the middle of town, publicizing his search for new Dragon Riders, I couldn't help myself.
Though I'd never say this to Eric, I've always wanted to ride a dragon. He'd probably go on some long rant about how I don't have "the right demeanor" or "a magnetic personality." What does he expect? I spent years around his family!
I'm sick of it! For years, Eric has treated me like a pile of yak dung. He's acted as if I should be thankful that he's graced me with his presence. It's about time I show him what I can do.
Dahlia
This was my chance! King Avner just announced recruitment for potential Dragon Riders! I've spent years waiting to have the opportunity to be a Rider. I have such great plans for the archipelago; I just need an outlet for it. This way I'll be able to change to the world.
I rushed back to my home, pulling my hood down to let my black hair free. I nearly kicked the door open, slamming it shut behind me.
"Are you okay, Dahlia? Is something wrong?" My mother asked. I'm sure my smoke-gray eyes were wild with anticipation.
"Even better! Recruitment for a new generation of Dragon Riders was just announced!" I exhaled, my back pressed against the door, keeping me from falling over in excitement.
"Dragons? I never knew you were interested in dragon riding. If I had known, I would've helped you try to get work guarding the Great Protector," Mother told me, surprised. Outside, I could hear the quiet rumble of the volcano outside of our door, a constant reminder of who's been defending my home.
"I'm- I- That's," I stuttered. I wasn't sure how to make her understand why I was so excited except to tell her my big plans, and I was not going to do that under any circumstances.
Without a word, I rushed to my bedroom to pack. My bag was hiding behind the door. Extra clothes are essential. I rifled around my room, letting out a small squeal when I found my spare outfit.
The rest of the evening was nothing more than a blur. Excitement churned through my veins. Absolutely nothing could bring me down. Sleeping was impossible. All I could think about was the words of King Avner.
I'd been returning to my home from the healer's. Bandages covered my right hand. I'd accidentally sliced open my palm while sparring with Eileen. She isn't even close to the best fighter on the island. I can't believe I let my guard down so much that Eileen was able to injure me! Arrogance had overwhelmed me, granting Eileen an opportunity to graze the blade of her sword over my right palm. The wound wasn't deep, thankfully. She'd gone easy on me. That probably won't be the case next time. I can't let there be a next time!
I trudged onward, disappointed in myself. I passed the statue of the Great Protector when I heard the sound of someone shouting. Oh no! Is someone hurt? I rushed toward the sound. I was shocked to find that the source of the noise had a head of strawberry-blond hair that I could recognize in complete darkness. King Avner! He stood at the mouth of the path that led to the volcano. A small crowd had gathered around him. I went to join them, curious what the people were so interested in.
"My fellow Defenders of the Wing, I have a grand announcement. Chief Hiccup Haddock of Berk has proclaimed that he's searching for youth between the ages of fourteen and twenty to travel to Berk for the chance to become a Dragon Rider. He has sent invitations to each island of the Archipelago Allies. Those of you who are interested will need to be ready to board a boat at daybreak. The boat will take you to Berk. Whatever you choose, I wish you the best!" He exclaimed. My eyes widened. Many around me started squealing with joy.
I know I'm ready. I've never wanted anything so badly! I'll make my ancestors proud. All I need to do is get selected.
Torren
I sprinted through the village, weaving in between people and buildings. I guess I'll just be fashionably late! Earlier today, Chieftess Heather sent out an order for all between the ages of fourteen and twenty to meet at the arena at sunset. That was all she said, no specification about the purpose.
I would've been on time if I hadn't gotten caught up in a debate with my Dad about the proper time to milk yaks. It may sound like a pitiful excuse, but that was the truth.
It's just the way I am with my dad. We lovingly tease and aggravate one another. Although, sometimes I'm not sure he understands that I'm just joking.
I've always been a social person. I love meeting new people and making friends. It's probably why I play around so much. Some may call it childish, but I call it comedy gold.
Slowly but surely, the stone arena came into sight. The sun was almost ready to slip over the horizon. At least I'm not too late. It could be worse!
I slowed my paces, hoping no one would be able to tell how exhausted I was. As casually as I could, I sauntered into the arena.
"There is fi-" the chieftess fell silent as she noticed my presence. The crowd of my peers, who were sitting on the ground, turned their faces toward me.
"Umm… Hey! I made it!" I blurted, running my hand through my black hair. I hope that diffused the tension.
"You're late, Torren," the chieftess mentioned.
"Um… Yeah… Sorry. My Dad needed to talk to me," I explained, embarrassed. She sighed, motioning for me to sit down.
Quickly, I sat down in the back, hoping it would keep the staring from others down to a minimum. If anyone tried to, hopefully, I'd notice and be able to shoot them a glare.
"As I was saying, there will be about five or six available spots. The duty of a Dragon Rider is to defend dragons and the Allies. A boat will be at the docks at sunrise for those of you who are interested," the Chieftess continued.
Dragon Riders? That sounds like a lot of fun! Earlier, I'd been dreading this. I was worried it was going to be another large community project. Though I didn't understand it, riding a dragon sounded like fun! It's about time I add some spice to my life!
Aisling
I bounded across the bridge, swerving around everyone in my way. As careful as I tried to be, there were many times where I nearly fell off the bridge.
I had to find Minden. After a dry spell, I'd finally come up with a brilliant idea that I was sure she'd love!I just needed to find her! On my mad dash, I ran into Nadia, Minden's second-in-command.
"Hi, Nadia! Do you know where Minden is?" I asked, breathless. I was unsure of how long I was running. All I knew was that it had been a while. I'd nearly run through the entire village!
"I'm not sure," she replied. She did a quick once-over of me, a look of fear crossed her face when she saw the notebook I clutched. "Please don't tell me you're going to Minden with another one of your ideas…" She groaned.
"Yeah. I'm just carrying around my inventing notebook for fun," I retorted, sarcastically. Before Nadia could reply, I started walking away. I'm not that bad! I don't understand what the problem is!
There was one last place I hadn't checked. The Razorwhip rookery! Of course! Why didn't I think of that earlier? With a new plan in mind, I darted into the forest.
I've never understood why no one encourages my inventing. I had one bad idea! Bad ideas are just part of the process! Granted, what happened as a result of that idea was catastrophic.
I'd tried to create a mechanical Razowhip. If it'd worked, it would have allowed some of the younger ones on the island to practice flying. Let me save you the terror. The prototypes ended with the entire village catching on fire…
Yes, I'd created a poorly made product, but that was years ago! I've gotten much better at planning out my inventions. If someone would give me a chance, I could show everyone how much I've improved!
The other Wingmaidens look down on me as if I'm still a child. I'm fourteen! Apparently, endless optimism means your a child, because that's how I'm treated! Everyone believes that I need to call a sword a sword and see the world for what it is, but that's not what I want to do! I know horrible things happen! I know that there are some people in this world that would like to kill everyone, but I want to be able to have hope!
"Aisling?" A voice behind me asked. I jumped at the sound, turning around to see Minden walking toward me. "Nadia said you were looking for me?" She added.
"Oh! Yes! I have a great idea for the rookery!" I began, opening my notebook. Hurridly, I flipped through the pages of the book, searching for my latest idea. I heard Minden sigh. "Is something wrong?" I asked.
"Aisling, you know remember what happened the last time we tried one of your ideas, correct?" She inquired. I already knew what was coming next. Tears formed in the corners of my eyes.
"Please! Just give me one more chance!" I begged.
"We can't put the Razorwhips at risk. If we lost the hatchlings, I'm not sure what we'd do," Minden explained, placing her hands on my shoulders. I writhed out of her grasp.
"I just need to stop," I mumbled. Worry shot into Minden's eyes.
"You shouldn't do that, Aisling! Don't give up on what you love!" She exclaimed.
"What's the point? No one will ever give me the chance to actually try one of my ideas."
"Maybe you just aren't suited for Wingmaiden Island," Minden disclosed. I looked straight in her eyes, searching for some sign that would tell me she was lying.
"I-Why-It-But-" I stammered. "I don't understand"
"I think you're made for better things than this. You have grand ideas. You need to put them to greater use than just for Wingmaiden Island! Tomorrow a boat to Berk will dock here. Get on that boat. You'll get an opportunity to be a Dragon Rider! That sounds more like you!" She explained.
"Would I be alone?" I asked.
"Actually, you would. I haven't told anyone else because we need to train your peers for becoming real Wingmaidens. You'll be the one exception. Please don't tell anyone. I don't want to lose a bunch of my trainees to Berk!"
I smiled. Finally, someone was giving me an opportunity. I'll go to Berk and they'll appreciate my talents! I'd finally been given a chance.
"I won't let you down, Minden! I promise!" I exclaimed, giving her a tight hug.
"I know you won't. Why else would I tell you?" She replied, returning my gesture.
Eric
Finally, after years of waiting, my dad was recruiting a new team of Dragon Riders! I'd waited for this opportunity ever since I was little. This would be my chance to show everyone how capable I am, make them wish I was the heir to Berk.
I was meant to be the heir, but my sister stole the position. Haley was born minutes before me, making her the firstborn. Because of her, I'm the less important twin. Everyone has to spend time focusing on Haley and making sure she's prepared to be the chieftess one day. Where does that leave me? Pretty much fending for myself.
Being the leader of the Dragon Riders will allow me to show everyone that I'm capable of leading, even without all the special training. I'd show Berk that they should've considered me before deciding on an heir. I'd show them what they lost!
The only thing that stands between me and my chance at glory is a bunch of strangers that have no knowledge about dragons. It should be easy enough! For Thor's sake, my parents taught me almost everything I know! If they didn't choose me to lead, they'd practically be contradicting themselves!
After years of patiently waiting, I'd finally be given my chance to shine. For once, everyone would truly see me! I have to be the leader; otherwise, I don't know what I'll have left.
Lina
I stepped onto the ship's deck, scanning my new surroundings. This village was more crowded than the ones I'm used to, but I'm less likely to be singled out.
Once I decided to stay the night, I grabbed the pile of rope sitting next to the mast. I hastily walked to the edge of the ship, beginning to tie the rope around a post on the dock. It didn't take long for a familiar knot to form; I know it as well as the back of my hand.
After I secured the boat, I reached for my bag and stepped onto the dock. I watched as people rushed back and forth, allowing myself to become caught in the flow of traffic, ending up in the village center.
I glanced around, searching for a spot to observe from, before settling under a small tree. Dragons had a strong presence here. It put me on edge, but also calmed me. This village had a way to protect itself when my bad luck inevitably came. The people seemed friendly. No fights broke out, which is more than I can say for some of the other places I've traveled.
A small group of children ran by, each one covered head to toe in mud. Such sweet, innocent things. Enjoy this time while it lasts. You're going to miss it.
After a couple of minutes, I wandered into the forest, trying to put some distance between me and the village. Everyone seems so happy and peaceful. It won't be that way once you're done here. That's what you always do, corrupt and ruin beauty. Why else would you be here?
Once I found a suitable clearing, I set up my camp as usual. I built a small fire and ate yak jerky for the beleventeenth night in a row. Silently, I watched as the sun slipped over the horizon, just like every night, before pulling my raggedy blanket from my bag to sleep.
Like usual, I planned on leaving early the next morning, the same plan I've had every night for the past nine years. Honestly, I'm getting sick of it, always finding someplace new only to have to turn right around and leave. I wish I had the time to settle into a village and meet people, but that's just a luxury I can't afford.
