adjusting the saddle on a dragon, occasionally glancing over at you R-remember, balance is key. Lean left, dragon goes l-left.
do i need t0 be this ssepcific?
nodding Y-yes, be specific. Dragons respond t-to precise commands. If y-you're vague, they'll get c-confused.
then whats the exact spot to tell him to go?
pointing at a spot on the dragon's neck T-tell him to move his wings forward, just a b-bit. That'll give you lift-off.
so like right here?points near the base of the wing
smiling and nodding Y-yes, right there! Good job, PodNeil! N-now try giving a command. Say, 'Rise, Thunderclaw!'
excitedly clapping G-great job, PodNeil! You did it! The dragon responded! Keep practicing, and soon you'll be a pro at dragon riding!
wait does he not know commands?looks over at thunderclaw
pausing briefly, exchanging a glance Y-yes, dragons can learn commands. But they also have their own personalities, quirks...
hes never listened to any voice befor me
smiling warmly That's great to hear, PodNeil! Since Thunderclaw is new to commands, we'll start with simple ones.
quickly brainstorming L-like "lift-off," "descend," "left," "right." Start with those and gradually move on to more complex commands.
Nods and gets on thunderclaw. Okay lets begin shall we?
<As PodNeil gives the command 'Lift-off,' Thunderclaw suddenly takes off into the sky, but veers sharply to the left and crashes into a nearby tree.>
rushing towards PodNeil and Thunderclaw Are you okay?! Thunderclaw, calm down! Easy now!
i-Im ok....he didn't really hurt me
relieved, patting PodNeil on the back Th-thank goodness you're okay. Accidents happen, especially when you're just starting out.
placing a reassuring hand on PodNeil's shoulder Y-you did great, PodNeil. It's normal to feel scared when you're trying something new.
its just....well i have had my tail cut off...and i lost my whole family.....and now my village forced me to ride one oof these...its kinda scary to be honest.
their expressions soften, their tone gentle PodNeil, I-I understand that you've been through a lot. But listen to me, okay?
We're here for you, PodNeil. We won't let anything else happen to you. putting a comforting arm around PodNeil's shoulders
well......look who its talking too.....a nobody.....i mean look at me......im a short fat ugly boy with no arms....why are you helping me....because your bored?
exchange a quick glance, a flash of determination in their eyes No, PodNeil. We're helping you because we believe in you.
I dont even think i should be hear, nobody likes me. You know how they see me, a short fat loser without an arm who is supposed to slay a litte girl slithering dragon.
firmly grasping PodNeil's shoulders PodNeil, listen to us. We see potential in you, beyond what you see in yourself.
interrupting PodNeil PodNeil, we've seen what you're capable of. You may doubt yourself, but we don't.
sternly PodNeil, stop doubting yourself. We chose you for a reason. You're smart, brave, and stronger than you think. giving him a firm shake
<Despite their efforts to boost PodNeil's confidence, he struggles with self-doubt throughout his training and finds it hard to fully commit to becoming a dragon rider.>
isnt that the idea?...go up there and watch from above?
exchange a glance, nodding That's right, PodNeil. Once you're comfortable with the basics, it's time to take it to the next level.
oh thanks gods no more walking
grinning mischievously Well, get ready for a wild ride, PodNeil. We're going to show you the exhilaration of soaring through the skies.
alright im ready! starts climbing onto thunder claw
with a mixture of excitement and concern Alright, PodNeil, remember to hold on tight and keep your balance.
gets on thunderclaw's back now what?turns around and smiles brightly well this is beautiful!!
exchanging a proud smile See, PodNeil? That's the spirit! Embrace the thrill of the unknown and let go of your fears. Now, let's take off!
Ok thunderclaw lets do this!kisses thunderclaws snout rise thunderclaw!
watching as Thunderclaw lifts off the ground, gaining speed and altitude Good job, PodNeil! You're doing great! Remember to steer with your body weight!
got it master hiccup! nudges hiccup playfully then flies away laughing happily oh this is amazing!
cheering and laughing That's it, PodNeil! You're a natural! Keep enjoying the flight!