"I challenge you!" I yell.

Silence falls. Chief Elkerise looks stunned. Gobber's mouth drops. Toothless grabs my hand. I got this bud. I got this. Dad slaps himself. I start walking up the stairs. A drop of sweat runs down my face. I let out a breath,

"Uh, Hiccup? What in the name of Thor are you doing lad?" Gobber whispers.

"I have no idea." I mutter.

I push past him. Chief Elkerise looks surprised and also starting to laugh a little.

"You... you challenge me? Of all Vikings who could challenge me, you challenge me?" Chief Elkerise asks. 

"I know the Challenge. It can only be done by members of the Chieftain's hoard, and I am the next Chief of Berk. I am Stoick the Vasts' son." I point out.

"Hiccup, what are you doing?" Astrid grabs my arm. 

"I accept your challenge boy! It will begin at dawn tomorrow!" Chief Elkerise yells.

The clan roars. I let out a breath. Dad looks at me. Chief Elkerise puts his hand on my shoulder.

"Know this boy, I have had many challenges but you're the last person on this rock I would even think to challenge me. Do you know me?" Chief Elkerise says.

"You're right that this is probably the stupidest thing I can do, but for Berk, I'm willing to." I say.

"Well said lad. You impress me yet." Chief Elkerise says.