Before the day’s events begin, Hiccup notices a storm brewing. He thinks that even Thor may make an appearance at the celebration. The Thor’sday Thursday Celebration is exciting for the Hooligans and the Meatheads, but Hiccup and Toothless go through the morning nervous. Not only is Snotlout in the competition, but so is Thuggory, the chief of the Meathead Tribe’s son. Thuggory’s dragon, a silver Monstrous Nightmare named Killer, growls at Fireworm, who acts unconcerned. Mogadon, chief of the Meatheads, asks Stoick the Vast about his son. When Stoick points out Hiccup and Toothless, Mogadon remarks on their small size, causing Stoick to become defensive: “SIZE ISN’T EVERYTHING!” (55).

Gobber the Belch explains the competition, repeating that any boy who fails will be exiled. He privately tells Hiccup not to embarrass them in front of the Meatheads. Gobber introduces the boys and their dragons, and everyone is stunned by Toothless’s size. Gobber amps up the boys by shouting, “Heroes or Exiles!” (53). Hiccup quietly hopes he can prove himself a hero.

Toothless performs the required tricks well, but when ordered to hunt fish, he stays behind as the other dragons leave.