Crossing the Line | Oakstrid Story

Chapter 5 | Big Trouble

"SHE DID WHAT?!"

I tensed as I heard my father's voice echo across Berk. I knew I was in big trouble. I had awoken early that morning, as I always did, while the sun was still sleeping. Making my way to the den, I intended to finish the plans for the much-needed repairs. But when my father noticed that the Nadder was missing, it felt like the entire island knew instantly, and he was not happy. Not happy at all, and all I could do was pray for a little mercy.

"HOPELESS!!!"

My father never used the name Oakley when I was in trouble, and boy, did I hate it. I raced out of the den and stood at attention outside the forge as the chief approached with a formidable scowl etched across his face. I couldn't bring myself to meet his gaze. "You snuck out of the house, disobeyed my direct orders, and freed that Nadder against MY wishes! You have crossed a line!"

I let out a sigh. It was true; I often snuck out at night, seeking moments of solitude or to train in the woods, but I had never been caught before. Freeing that Nadder might have been crossing a line, but I didn't regret it. Not even a little bit.

"You are grounded until further notice. You are not to leave the house until further notice. No more fire patrol, no more working at the forge, no more training!" He bellowed right in my face.

"Yes, sir." I hated when he yelled at me like that. I could feel tears threatening to fall, but with all eyes on me, there was no way I would ever allow them to do so.

"Now get inside before I drag you there myself!" He scolded, and I quickly obeyed, running into the house and slamming the door behind me.

I collapsed on my bed, feeling a mix of anger, sadness, and frustration swirling within me. It wasn't fair. The dragons were just trying to survive, like we were. They were innocent creatures, and they didn't deserve to be locked up and killed for something that was out of their control. As I sat there, sobbing into my lap, I couldn't help but feel trapped. I yearned for a world where dragons and humans could live together in harmony, but I couldn't see a way to make that a reality.

Later that evening, after the emotions had settled, I found myself sitting by the window, gazing out at the starry night sky. My mind was still racing with conflicting thoughts and emotions. I longed for freedom and acceptance, but the fear of disappointing my father and facing the consequences kept me silent about my true feelings.

There was a soft knock on my bedroom door, and I quickly wiped my eyes before inviting the visitor inside. Lotus entered cautiously, sensing that I needed someone to talk to.

"Just me," she announced softly, taking a seat beside me and draping her arm over my shoulder. "Honey, I know how much you care about the dragons, but your father is just trying to protect you."

"I know," I mumbled, not wanting to upset her with my inner turmoil. "I just wish- I just-"

Lotus must have sensed there was more to the story, but she didn't pry further. Instead, she offered a comforting presence, allowing me to feel a little less alone in my struggles. As we sat there together, looking out at the starlit sky, I couldn't help but wonder if there was a way to bridge the gap between humans and dragons peacefully. The thought gave me a glimmer of hope, even amidst the challenges and restrictions that lay ahead. For now, though, I would keep my dreams and desires hidden, locked away in the deepest corners of my heart, until the right moment presented itself.