#thereweredragonsss

...

Today was my birthday. My first birthday on Pandora. I came here half a year ago and had immediately fallen in love with this world. I started training as a medic and had been researching the healthcare of the Na'vi ever since. It was the best job ever! I got my own Avatar body and could now join the village people. Together with Dr. Norm Spellman, my instructor, we healed sick natives and researched them. One family in the Omatikaya clan had particularly captivated me: the Sullys. Jake Sully was the Olo'eyktan of the clan and Norm's best friend. He had led the battle against the RDA back then.

I loved his family. Neytiri was a fearless warrior, just like her husband. I quickly became friends with Jake since he worked closely with Norm. His four children, Neteyam, Lo'ak, Kiri, and Tuk, were nice to me from the beginning, and we soon became close friends. The two Sully boys were good at getting into trouble, and so we often had to patch them up again. Kiri came to our lab more often, as she was visiting her human friend Spider.

The longer I was on Pandora, the better our friendship became. They integrated me into their family, and so it happened that I also went into the forest more often in my free time. Kiri and I became best friends, and I got along with the others too. Especially with Neteyam. He was almost my age, only two years older than me. Although he was often away, training with his father, we saw each other more and more frequently. He was supposed to become the new Olo'eyktan next year. Even though we had a small age difference, we got along well. Our friendship grew, we became best friends and were soon inseparable. Some folks in the clan joked that they would soon not only get a new Olo'eyktan but also a new clan leader. They jokingly called me Ma'aw (wife). Neteyam dismissed it all with a mischievous laugh, but it didn't leave me as unaffected.

Because I was secretly in love with him. I had noticed it weeks ago, and since then, those jokes felt weird. That Neteyam dismissed them with a wave of his hand hurt a bit. As if I wasn't important enough to him for that. I knew that Na'vi and Avatars didn't become partners. That had only happened once and will never again since then. But I wished for it. I caught myself secretly watching Neteyam. I asked him about his training. And if he already had someone in mind for his Munxta (partner). He just said no and then changed the subject.

Neteyam had completed his rite of passage into the clan years ago. According to custom, it was common for young Na'vi warriors to choose a wife afterwards. But Neteyam hadn't done that yet. Jake left him alone with it, but Kiri and Lo'ak sometimes teased him. I stayed out of the whole thing. It would only confuse my feelings even more.

This morning, however, no confusing feelings for young Na'vi warriors were going to confuse me. It was my birthday. I didn't hope, however, that the Sullys would mention it, the Na'vi didn't celebrate birthdays. I had the day off today, so after breakfast, I went into the forest. I often went together with Spider, but he had already disappeared in the early dawn. Sometimes he did that. The village of the Omatikaya was not far from our base, so I only had to walk for twenty minutes. It was beautiful every time, but I also didn't underestimate the dangers lurking in the forest. The animals, however, didn't see me as a threat because of my Avatar, so I reached my friends without any interruptions.

Spider was the first I saw. With his human body, he stood out from the green of the forest from afar. When he saw me, he waved excitedly. I smiled and waved back. We were in the clearing where the Sullys had their home. A tightly woven nest hung many feet above us in the branches of the trees. It always reminded me of a treehouse, and from the inside, it looked a bit like one too. Jake had added some human influences, small shelves and tables adorned the large room. He had reinforced the floor with wooden planks, and individual compartments were separated by curtains. Like small rooms. Decorations made of crystals, small bones, and weavings hung everywhere. Kiri was not entirely innocent of that. She loved handicrafts. Even today, she wore an artfully woven top.

When I stepped onto the clearing towards them, she ran to me. Her gentle embrace greeted me like sunshine on a rainy day. "Kaltxì Y/N!" She let me go and looked at me mysteriously. I was slowly getting quite good at the Na'vi language, but there were still words I didn't understand. Quickly spoken sentences, certainly not. Kiri's mischievous smile confused me, as the others came to me too. Tuk shot towards me and hugged my waist. "Tuk," I laughed. "What's going on with you all?" I wanted to know. Spider gave me a knowing smile. "Morning, sleepyhead. Happy Birthday!" I blinked, he was holding something small in his outstretched hands. It was wrapped in leaves. Kiri also gave me something wrapped now. "Happy Birthday!" "What?"

"We don't celebrate birthdays like humans do." explained Lo'ak, who was standing behind his sister. He hugged me briefly. "But Spider said it's something like a name day, and we thought that was really nice." My gaze fell on the human boy. He was grinning from ear to ear and winked at me. I smiled back and formed a silent 'thank you' with my lips. Spider grinned. "Name day! Name day! Happy Name Day!" sang Tuk and hopped happily around me. We had to laugh. "Don't you want to open your presents?" asked Kiri. I had completely forgotten about that in all the surprise. We sat down on the soft moss of the clearing. Tuk snuggled up close to me, and Kiri handed me her gift. Lo'ak and Spider exchanged meaningful looks as I unwrapped it. What dear friends I had! I hadn't expected that at all. It could’ve been perfect - only Neteyam wasn't there. I knew he had a lot to do. So it shouldn't have bothered me, but his absence still gave me a small sting.

Kiri's present was a beautiful necklace made of sparkling gemstones. I held it up to the light. "Oh Kiri!" I said. "It's beautiful!" Kiri looked a bit embarrassed. "It's made with the water stones near the Telluride Falls." "Thank you!" I hugged her joyfully, and Kiri helped me put the necklace on. Tuk's gift was really cute. She had carved a small wooden Ikran for me. Since I didn't have one myself, but admired these awesome animals every time. Spider and Lo'ak's present was made by them together. It was a notebook made of soft leather. Along with a colorful writing quill. "Dad helped us with it," said Lo'ak. I looked at the two in astonishment. "You made this yourselves?" The two boys nodded proudly.

"Wow," I said. "Thanks, guys!" "Now only Neteyam's present is missing," said Tuk, speaking my mind. He was very busy, and he didn't even know it was my birthday today, but it would still have been nice to see him today. Spider looked around. "Does anyone know what he's giving?" "Don't tell!" Tuk interrupted. "No idea." Lo'ak shrugged. Kiri also looked clueless. Despite the nice presents and my friends, my heart grew heavy. My greatest birthday wish was Neteyam. Not just that I would see him today. My biggest dream was that he would reciprocate my feelings. But I would probably have to wait forever for that.

We sat in the moss for a long time. Through the dense canopy, I saw the sky slowly turning pink. I would have to go back soon. Dreamily, I looked up, the small carved Ikran in my hand. Lo'ak was just telling some story about what his friends had been up to recently when I saw a shadow. I flinched as the last bit of the sun was darkened. Then a loud screech sounded, and the leaves above us trembled. Turquoise-green wings made their way down to us on the clearing. Powerful and majestic, the Ikran landed on the meadow. Some leaves fell to the ground as it shook its mighty neck. A growl escaped its throat.

"Neteyam!" Tuk jumped up happily and ran to her brother. He dismounted from his flying creature and released the bond Tsaheylu. He took the visor from over his eyes and fastened it to his belt. He whispered something to his Ikran in Na'vi, and it rose back into the air. Tuk hugged him, and Neteyam laughed. "Hello Tsmuke (Sister)!" He looked up towards us, and his face lit up when he saw me. The others had also stood up, I did the same.

"You were gone for a long time today," said Kiri. Neteyam sighed and patted Lo'ak on the shoulder. "Dad made me repeat every exercise twice today. He says you learn best through dull repetition." He rolled his eyes. Spider snorted contemptuously. Neteyam's gaze wandered to me. I smiled at him, my heart felt warm. He looked good today. His braids were still a bit tousled from the wind and he wore leather leg guards for the flight. Around his hips hung a  belt with the flight visor and a knife.

"Happy Birthday," he said and hugged me tightly. I melted. For a moment, I could smell his intoxicating scent, feel his arm muscles around me. But then the hug ended just as abruptly again. As if he had burned himself on me. Or as if it was unbecoming for the future Olo'eyktan to hug a dreamwalker longer than necessary. "Nice necklace," he winked at me. I had to grin. "Thanks! Kiri made it." Neteyam smirked and gave his sister a proud look. "I thought so." He looked up at the Sullys' house. "Are you guys as hungry too?" he asked the group, and only now did I realize how empty my stomach was.

"I'm starving," Spider held his stomach. Here in Pandora's wilderness, there were only a few fruits he could tolerate. But the Sullys always had a small supply on hand. "Let's go up," said Lo'ak. "We'll make a super name day feast for Y/N!" "Wait!" I stopped them. "It's getting dark, I have to go back soon," I replied. Spider didn't follow such rules anyway, but I really had to go home soon. I had to work again tomorrow. "Ah, come on," said Nete. "You still have time for ten more minutes." I really couldn't say no to him. And when Kiri then suggested making her incredibly delicious Mauti salad, I was defeated. "Oh," Neteyam said just before we went up and briefly took my arm. My heart began to hammer, as always when he touched me. He leaned towards me. "My present comes later." I looked at him in astonishment. I hadn't even thought about presents anymore. His smile widened, as if he was hiding something from me. Then he nodded towards the treehouse, and we followed the others up the ladder.

The food was delicious. Neteyam suggested flying me home later with his Ikran. I had only flown with him once before and loved it. I would have loved to have my own Ikran. Meanwhile, it had gotten dark, and the gas planet glowed among the stars in the sky. Neytiri and Jake had come home half an hour ago. Jake had congratulated me and hugged me warmly. Neytiri knew from Jake about the custom of birthdays among us sky people and hugged me just as tightly. Then Neteyam and I said goodbye. I thanked my friends for this beautiful day. Spider was sleeping at the Sullys' tonight, he had done that more often, and by now I didn't even wonder about it anymore. Neteyam called his Ikran and helped me onto the saddle behind him. I put my arms around his waist and was glad he couldn't see the blush on my face. Then the Ikran rose into the air, the canopy rustled past us. My stomach did a flip, similar to when we flew in the helicopter. Shortly after, we were high above the treetops. The stars sparkled down on us, and I couldn't get enough of the beautiful night sky. It was cool up here, especially now in the dark, but Neteyam's back warmed me. I would have loved to snuggle my cheek against his skin. After a while, I noticed that we weren't flying towards the base at all. For that, we would have had to go west, but we were flying south. I knew that because Neteyam had taught me how to determine the directions.

"Wait!" I called against the wind. "I thought we were flying home!" Neteyam turned his head slightly towards me. "Not yet. I have to show you something." With that, the Ikran went into a dive. I screamed in fright and wrapped my arms tighter around Neteyam's torso. He just laughed. When we landed, he helped me off the saddle. Then he put his hands over my eyes from behind. "What are you doing?" I laughed and tried to swipe them away, but he didn't let go. "Do you trust me?" I could hear the laughter in his voice. "Yes, but—" "No buts! Come with me." He gently pushed me forward. "Just walk straight ahead." "I can't see, what if I fall?" I asked, placing my hands on his arms. "You won't," he replied. "I'll make sure of it." I felt the moss under my feet, heard insects softly buzzing. "Can I look now?" I asked impatiently. "No."

"Now?" I tried to push Neteyam's hands away. With covered eyes, I made my way through the tall grass. Neteyam walked closely behind me, making sure I didn't fall. "Wait... Now!" We stopped, and he took his hands from my eyes. I blinked in the sudden brightness. Before me unfolded the most beautiful scenery I had ever seen. We stood in a clearing, the grass reaching up to our calves. All around us were bioluminescent plants, and small glowing beetles flew around. They illuminated the night so that I could see the small lake in front of us. The colorful night sky was gently reflected in it. High rocks towered behind the body of water, and a waterfall plunged down its cliffs to merge with the lake. It was breathtakingly beautiful. Above the cliff, I could make out the floating rocks of the Hallelujah Mountains. I was breathless from the beauty. "Oh Neteyam!" I marveled and hugged him briefly. "It's so beautiful here!" "Happy Birthday," he grinned. "One of my favorite places."

I couldn't get enough of the colorful lights and hues. Enthusiastically, I ran to the lake. The grass receded here, forming a small sandy beach. I knelt down and dipped my hand into the water. It was lukewarm and crystal clear. When my fingers entered the water, it began to glow faintly around them. I splashed some water around, and the shimmer spread like waves. Astonished, I looked back at Neteyam, who was slowly approaching. "Why have you never shown me this before?" The bright spots on his face danced as he smiled. "I wanted to. I just wanted it to be something special." I had to laugh. "Believe me, you succeeded." Neteyam knelt down and began to take off his combat belt. I looked at him in surprise. "What are you doing?"

He lovingly placed the piece of armor to the side in the soft grass. I knew how important this belt was to him. It was awarded to young warriors after the Ikran ceremony. Nete had passed it many years before we met, but he still honored it. It wasn't a given to be a Na'vi warrior, as he himself said. When he also took off the leg guards, I stood up. Confused, I tilted my head. "What arer you doing?" But instead of an answer, Neteyam just took my hand. "Come on," he smirked and pulled me towards the lake. Laughing, I followed him.

The warm water enveloped us, and I sighed happily. Neteyam lay on his back floating and looked up at the sky. "It's so incredibly beautiful here," I murmured and submerged up to my shoulders in the water. We swam a few strokes and enjoyed the silence of nature. Neteyam took a deep breath and began to dive. I turned onto my back. Around me floated water lilies and other aquatic plants. Every time they touched a small wave, the water there began to glow. How could this planet be so beautiful? I closed my eyes. I would have loved to stop time. Neteyam's present was so beautiful. Just being here with him was incredible. As if dreams had come true.

I was suddenly startled, when something burst out of the water right next to me. Neteyam was soaking wet and shook the water out of his hair. Droplets fell on my face, and I had to laugh. "You Skxawng! You scared me!" He grinned broadly. "Wasn't intentional at all." he teased me. I splashed water at him with the flat of my hand. He pretended to be offended and gasped. "Oh wait!" Swiftly, Neteyam jumped forward and tried to grab me. I screamed laughing and swam away. But I didn't get far, Nete had grabbed my ankle and pulled me towards him. "Let me go!" I giggled and squirmed. But he held me tight, began to tickle me. "Ah, no!" I sputtered and couldn't catch my breath from laughing. Neteyam joined in my laughter and pinched me. My own attempts to fight back he successfully fended off. "Stop!" Laughing, I grabbed his hands and pulled them towards me.

Neteyam chuckled softly and finally stopped tickling me. My chest hurt from laughing. I breathed out and looked at him. I was about to say that he was a mean Skxawng, but his gaze made me pause. He looked at me intensely, his eyes shimmering in the illuminated night. I let go of his hands and slightly opened my mouth. But nothing came out. Carefully, Neteyam reached out his hand towards me. His still wet fingers touched my chin. My heart began to race. The touch was soft and hesitant, yet decisive. It slowly wandered up to my lips. I held my breath as he lightly stroked my lower lip. "Nga lu sìltsan nìtxan (You are so beautiful)," he murmured. My cheeks burned at the words. I wanted to say something, but he stopped me by mmoving even closer.

All my thoughts fled my mind. The world seemed to stand still, and I only heard my own heartbeat and our breathing. His scent overwhelmed me. He smelled of the water, the trees of the forest, and that unique scent that only he possessed. It almost made me dizzy. His gaze drilled into me. I didn't know how long we stood like that, but I could have stood there forever just looking at him. Small water droplets ran down his patterned skin onto his chest. My gaze shot up to his face. To his lips. They were only inches away from mine. Neteyam's gaze also darted between my lips and eyes.

"May I?" His voice was deep and rough, which only made me more unsteady on my feet. Instead of an answer, I could only nod. Gently and honey-sweet, he placed his lips on mine. I could taste the water from the lake. Felt his hand still on my chin. And I wished this would never end. But slowly, he pulled away from me. Still completely overwhelmed, I just looked at him. Then a wide grin spread across my face. Neteyam, who had looked somewhat worried, smiled back in relief. "I didn't know if you wanted it," he admitted. "Oh, yes!" I gasped, full of emotion. "You have no idea how long." "I didn't want to ruin anything between us," he admitted. His other hand took mine. "Y/N, I've wanted to do this since the first time we met."

"Nete," I sighed. I was in seventh heaven. My biggest dream had come true. Smiling, he stroked my cheek. "Shh," he said. His fingers slowly wandered lower, down my neck. My heart fluttered in my chest. His gaze was so intense that I thought I would melt. And I did, as our lips met again. More boldly this time. I returned his kiss and sighed softly. His hands explored my skin, making their way downward. I flinched in surprise when his tongue parted my lips. But I let him in without hindrance. They played with each other, exploring one another.

I felt his hands wandering curiously along my body. One of his hands rested on my hip. I sighed into the kiss as he became more demanding. Neteyam led me with a gentle pressure of his hands out of the water towards the shore. There, he released me. "I want to see you," he whispered. Breathless, I nodded, unsure how to respond. We settled down on the fine sand. It stuck to our wet skin, but neither of us minded. Neteyam took me in his arms and kissed me again. I became hungry. A warmth spread inside me, and I wanted to be even closer to him. When his teeth gently bit my lip, I could no longer suppress a moan. I felt Neteyam smile into the kiss.

Then he lifted his lips from mine, only to place them on my neck. I gasped. He had found the most sensitive spot. My legs and arms became weak. Slowly but surely, Neteyam leaned over me and gently pressed me to the ground. His hands stroked up my waist. Sighing, I arched my back to be even closer to him. I needed this closeness. When his hands touched my top, the first moan escaped him. He pressed his hip against mine, and I could feel his hardness. I felt dizzy.

His exploring hands tried to undo it. But I had tied it in a knot at the back of my neck, so he couldn't manage. "Wait," I sat up a bit and took it off. Slightly nervous, I looked at him. But his gaze softened. "Ma Eywa," he murmured. Hesitantly, waiting for my reaction, he stroked the underside of my breasts. I sighed with pleasure and leaned into his touch. Emboldened, Neteyam took them fully in his hands and kneaded them. I suppressed a moan. Neteyam kissed me hard, and I felt myself getting wet.

"Let it out," he pressed me back onto the sand. His left hand remained on my chest while his other traveled down my belly. He rubbed gently over the loincloth, making his way between my legs. Now I could no longer suppress a moan. I lifted my hips and pressed against him. Neteyam let out a sound of desire. His fingers slipped under the fabric, and he moaned when he felt my wetness. Resignedly, he lowered his head. He stroked my entrance, massaged my most sensitive spot until his fingers were wet enough. Then he slid one finger into me. I gasped and moaned at the same time. It was heavenly, as if all birthdays had come at once. His finger moved inside me, driving me insane. "Oh Neteyam," I sighed. I felt myself becoming ready as he inserted a second finger. Breathing heavily, I stretched beneath him. His large body shielded me from the rest of the world. "Neteyam" "Shh"

"I can't wait any longer," I gasped. Neteyam's grip on my breast tightened. Without a word, he withdrew his fingers, leaving an emptiness. My brain was so foggy that I didn't even register him taking off his own clothes. But I saw how big he was. Nete also took the rest of my clothes off my body. He growled with desire when he saw between my legs. His head moved down there, and I whimpered as his tongue licked my entrance. I felt dizzy. Nete emerged again and leaned over me. He lovingly stroked my lower abdomen. "Do you want this?" I nodded firmly. "And you?" He smiled and, in response, brought forth his Kuru. I did the same. Slowly, we connected with Tsaheylu.

I gasped. It was as if I was looking into his innermost self. He was full of love for me. And his desire burned so strongly it was almost maddening. His feelings became my feelings. We became one through the bond. And also physically, as he positioned himself between my legs and carefully entered me. I threw my head back. "Does it hurt?" Neteyam wanted to know, but instead of an answer, I moaned. I pressed myself against him to take more of him inside me. Neteyam complied and penetrated me completely. We gasped simultaneously as we began to find a rhythm. His hands gripped my hips. The fire inside me intensified until it was almost unbearable. His thrusts began to become harder, and the rhythm rocked me to the edge of my existence. "Neteyam, I..."

A firework exploded inside me, and I held onto his broad shoulders so as not to lose control. Neteyam gasped, and I felt him twitching above me. He clung to me. Then he let his head fall onto my chest. Breathless, we separated from each other. I smelled the sharp scent of his masculinity and felt drunk.

"If you'd started earlier, Ron, you wouldn't be so stressed now," Hermione said, annoyed by Ron's mood. Harry put his quill down. "It's Tuesday, we still have plenty of time." Ron lifted his head in despair. "You already started yesterday!" "I started a week ago," Hermione interjected. Ron rolled his eyes so dramatically that Hermione couldn't possibly miss it. "Know-It-Alls" he muttered. "Pardon!?" she hissed back, her voice filled with anger.

It wasn’t unusual for them to argue. Harry just sighed in annoyance. It was so typical. But deep inside Hermione's chest, it hurt. Every time. And especially since she had realized what she felt for her best friend. Her gaze lingered on Ron, the evening sun making his hair look even redder than usual. At first, she hadn’t wanted to admit it, but the feelings didn’t go away. They grew stronger each day. Now, she just tried to ignore them. But it was incredibly difficult, especially when they were arguing.

"It's true," Ron defended himself quietly. Hermine waited for an apology, but nothing came. Ron just kept scribbling something on his parchment. Annoyed, Hermine snorted and continued writing as well. It was his fault if he failed. If he spoke to her like that, she certainly wouldn’t help him study. The tense silence between them stretched on until Harry suddenly stood up. "That's enough for today. Are you coming to dinner?"

...

Ron and Hermine hadn’t spoken a word to each other all the way to the Great Hall. Harry kept trying to start a conversation but only got a grumble from Ron and snappy replies from Hermine. Now they were sitting together at the Gryffindor table. Hermine was ignoring Ron, who slowly started to feel guilty. As much as she sometimes irritated him, he could never stay mad at her for long. His feelings for her were too strong. Even when she was angry, she was beautiful. He had always thought she was beautiful, but lately, she was just… incredible.

He had tried to talk to Harry about it but in the end, he hadn’t had the courage. So he kept his feelings to himself, which was sometimes difficult, especially when she was sitting so close to him like she was now. Every time she moved, he felt her arm against his, and he could smell her perfume. It was driving him crazy. Ron cleared his throat. First, he needed to fix their argument. He gathered himself and turned slightly toward her.

“Hermione?” “Hm?” she replied, not looking up. “I’m sorry about earlier,” Ron mumbled. “That was stupid of me.” She could barely hear him over the noise of the other students. “Don’t mention it,” she murmured, slightly annoyed, unsure whether she should forgive him. But her heart already had. She felt him shift closer to her, trying to understand her better. “You’re really smart…” She lifted her head. “Oh suddenly I am?” Ron bit his lip and looked at her with pleading eyes. “Could you explain me that chapter in History of Magic again?” She hesitated. “Please?”

She almost held her ground, but Ron’s gaze made her soften. It always did. Sighing, she gave in. “Fine. After dinner.” A wide grin appeared on Ron's face. "Thanks, Hermione! You're the best!" Before Hermione could reply, Ron stood up. "Be right back. Need to go somewhere."

Hermione watched him walk through the hall, almost bumping into Draco Malfoy and his gang. Malfoy threw a few insulting words at Ron, but he had already disappeared through the doors. A small smile formed at the corner of her mouth, and she shook her head at him. He really was cute sometimes.

“You fancy him,” came a voice suddenly from the side. Hermione jumped and looked to the left, where Ron had just been sitting. Harry had moved closer. For a second, her heartbeat stopped. He had figured it out? But she had tried so hard to hide it. She laughed briefly. “Harry, don’t be ridiculous!” But the little smile at the corner of her mouth just wouldn’t go away.

There was only one day left until the exam, and Hermione felt well-prepared. Which couldn’t exactly be said for Harry. Although he had studied much, he still didn’t seem to get it. This morning, he had asked if Hermione could explain the history of the Ministry of Magic to him again during lunch break. It was supposed to be an easy topic. But Hermione couldn’t refuse him. They had agreed to meet in the library for that. Last night, she had explained that chapter to Ron again. To her frustration, he had only half-heartedly listened, but maybe he had just been tired.

With two books under her arm, that she needed to return to the library, she entered it. The high shelves full of old books greeted her like an old friend. Hermione wandered through the aisles and turned into the history section. The last aisle contained the books she had used to study, and that was where she was supposed to meet Harry. She turned the corner and stopped. But at the desk between the shelves sat not Harry, but Ron. Confused, she walked over to him. “Are you standing in for Harry now?”

"Uuaahh," Ron flinched, only to theatrically place a hand on his chest. "Merlin! Hermione, you scared me." She giggled and placed the books on the table next to Ron. "Sorry. But seriously, where’s Harry?" Ron stood up. "Why Harry?" He pushed his chair closer to the table and leaned casually against the tabletop. Too casually, Hermione thought, and her heart sped up. Nervously, she tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. She had last seen Ron this morning at breakfast. After that, they had had different classes.

"Harry said you wanted to see me here," Ron said. "So? What’s up?" He looked at her curiously. "More history of magic?" Hermione blinked in confusion. Not because the light was coming through the windows just right, emphasizing Ron's freckles. (Well, that too.) But mainly because Harry had asked her to come here.

"Uh. Wait..." she began. "Harry asked if I could explain the last chapter to him again." Ron raised an eyebrow. "But Harry has Quidditch practice." Hermione groaned. Quidditch! How could she forget that? "Right. You’re right," she shook her head. "But that doesn't make sense." She furrowed her brow. Ron straightened his cloak. "So, you didn’t want to see me?" Hermione just shook her head. "Oh," Ron said. Did she imagine it, or did he sound disappointed?

Why on earth had Harry done that? Why send Hermione here to meet him, just to have Ron show up as well? Then she remembered their conversation from last night. At dinner. Damn, he really had figured it out, she realized. Was this some cheap attempt to get her to tell Ron what she felt? Hermione snorted. "Oh Harry, this—" Ron looked up. "What?" "Nothing, it’s fine," Hermione shook her head. Let Harry try whatever he wanted. She would never tell Ron what she felt for him. That would be too silly.

"Well, since we’re already here..." Hermione pulled another chair to the desk and sat down. Ron looked at her questioningly. "What’s this about?" With a nod, Hermione pointed to the books in front of her. "Studying!?" Ron rolled his eyes. "Oh Hermione..." "Come on!" She grabbed his sleeve and pulled him onto the chair next to hers. "Should I explain the chapter from yesterday again?" she offered. Ron shrugged and nodded resignedly. He would kill Harry for betraying him like this. Not another tutoring session with Hermione... On the other hand, he enjoyed every second of being close to her. Even now, as she talked. He wasn’t really listening, but he watched every movement of her lips. Were they as soft as they looked? How badly he wanted to reach out his fingers and—

"Ron!?" Hermione snapped her fingers in front of his face. "Hey, are you even listening to me?" She looked at him with a furrowed brow. Caught off guard, Ron cleared his throat and straightened up. "Uh, yeah, yeah. Sure. We were at... uh... the last chapter." Hermione sighed. "Ron, this isn’t going to work." Her voice was surprisingly soft. "You have to know this for tomorrow." Ron looked down at the open page of the book with a guilty expression. "I know, but there are so many dates. I can never remember them all."

Compassion crept up in Hermione. She wished she could just inject her own knowledge directly into his brain. Embarrassed, she looked at him. "Sorry for snapping at you yesterday." Ron grinned crookedly. "Well, you were right." He shrugged. "You are always" Hermione had to smile. Ron's blue eyes made her heart melt. "You’re so smart, Hermione," he admitted. She blushed. "Well, not smart... more like diligent," she said shyly, her fingers nervously brushing the corners of the book page.

"That's what I like about you," Ron smiled. Hermione wasn't sure if he meant it seriously or if it was desperation speaking through him. But whatever it was, she liked it. Ron awkwardly shrugged, and his blue eyes met hers. "Even though we always argue, I really like you a lot," he admitted. She smiled. "I like you too, Ron." The warmth in her heart became hotter and made her pulse quicken. Just then, Ron reached out. His fingers lightly touched her lower lip. It felt like a dream. Beautiful, yet at the same time, she wondered what was going on with Ron.

Startled, she flinched as she realized what he was doing. As if struck by lightning, Ron pulled back and withdrew his hand. "Hermione, I... I'm sorry. I don’t know what—" "It’s fine" she cleared her throat and put on a smile, unsure of how to say it. That this was what she had always wanted. That he touched her. That they were more than just friends. "That was nice" she whispered softly. Ron stepped out of his reserve. "Really?" He smiled at her shyly. She nodded, wanting to say something, but Ron’s fingers stopped her.

His thumb softly stroke her lips. She wanted to talk about it, tell him what he meant to her. For so long. That she never had the courage to tell him. Bud she didn't get the chance. Ron's eyes interlocked with hers and so ne didn't notice him moving closer.

Just as he closed his lips tenderly with hers, she realised it. A firework exploded inside her and heat flooded her whole body. That was everything she always wished for. With a sigh, she closed her eyes and sank deeper into the kiss. He was a good kisser, where did he learn that? Slowly, his thumb stroke her cheek. Even the slightest tough let the fire in her burn higher. Ans when she returned the kiss, he could feel his tongue. Ron took that as a confirmation. He pulled her closer and buried his hands in her hair. Hermione suddenly didn't care much of how strange it was that her best friend kissed her. She wanted more. With a small sigh he gave him her tongue und felt him shiver slightly. Her hands moved to his face, wanted to be even closer.

Suddenly, he pulled her onto his lap. Hermione made a surprised noise and moved her head away for a second. "Sorry", Ron mumbled, his face was even redder than his hair. "I didn't want to-" "Oh shut up Ronald Weasley" She pressed her lips back onto his. Her instinkts took over and Hermione wrapped his arms around his shoulders. He kissed her just like she ever dreamed of. Tenderly but determined. Sighing she leaned closer to him and felt something hard at his lap. For a second she hesitated, only to realise what it was. And the knowledge let her shiver. A burning feeling growed inside her and crawled down her body.

Ron seemed to notice and he let his Hand slide down her back. He grabbed her butt and lift her up onto the table. The books, that Hermione had placed on the table earlier fell to the ground with a loud thud, but she didn’t mind. For a moment, they separated from each other and looked at one another. His gaze looked as confused as Hermione felt. For a brief moment, she remembered where they were, but the burning in her center dulled all sense of reality. Ron got up, leaned down to her and kissed her intensity. She wrapped her arms around his shoulders again and a small moan escaped her lips as Ron's hands moved under her top. His warm fingers explored her soft skin, sending heat waves over her body.

Hermione grabbed his cloak and let his slide off his shoulders. She reached down and wrapped her arms around his waist. Suddenly Ron's lips left hers. She was about to say something outrageous when they settled on her neck. Hot and demanding. His hands now slid completely under her shirt and she suppressed a gasp. "Wait, wait- ", she panted and Ron stopped. He looked at her briefly, as if he was afraid she would regret it. "What if someone comes here?" she asked doubtfully. Ron just shrugged. "They're all watching Quidditch."

Hermione had her doubts, but Ron kissed her neck again, silencing all thoughts. His hands ran up her body to her breasts. Ron paused briefly and shivered as he touched her bra. He looked at her questioningly. "May I?" Hermione nodded, her heart pounding loudly. His fingers stroked the bra and he closed his eyes. The burning in her lap suddenly became stronger and Hermione wanted to be even closer to him. Wanted to touch him everywhere. Her hands slid under his shirt.

"Merlin, you're so beautiful, Hermione!," Ron's lips murmured against her temple. She sighed. Ron's hands wandered to her jeans. She hesitated for a moment, thinking about stopping him, but Ron was faster.

A hand slipped into her pants and they moaned collectively. His fingers gently stroked her most sensitive spot. "Oh Ron," she gasped, biting her lip. He looked at her. "Are you ok?" She just nodded, closed her eyes and clung onto him. She had never felt anything like this. She had never felt so attracted to anyone as she did now. His fingers glistened inside and she moaned softly. Lights exploded before her eyes as he moved his finger inside her. Hermione could feel Ron pressing himself between her legs. Felt his hardness.

She could hardly stand it any longer as a whimper left her lips and she pressed her face against him. Hot waves flooded her body and she felt the throbbing stronger than ever before. Ron kissed her neck and that was the last straw. A silent scream formed in her throat and she threw her head back. Ron paused, waiting until her climax had subsided. Hermione looked at him so tenderly that he forgot everything around him. With a free hand she touched Ron's hardness and he gasped. She felt it through the pants as Ron pressed himself against her. His head leaned hard against her forehead as he flinched heavily.

Panting, he gave her a tender kiss and pulled his hand out of her pants. Hermione trembled all over. For a moment they looked at each other in silence. His eyes looked directly into her soul, poured all his love and emotions into hers. Then Ron burst out laughing. Hermione grinned broadly. He hugged her and held her tightly in his arms, as if he never wanted to let her go again. She buried her face in his shoulder. His fingers rubbed gently over her scalp. Then Ron suddenly tore himself away from her. He looked at her in alarm. "Bloody hell! Anyone could have seen us!"

...

After the practice, Harry sat in the common room, going over his notes for the exam tomorrow. It was already late afternoon. He wondered if his matchmaking attempt with Ron and Hermione had worked. Had they even met in the library? He didn't feel guilty about tricking them. Something had to happen. Ron and Hermione had been giving each other looks for years, and recently, it had been happening even more often. Hermione always complained about Ron, but Harry knew she secretly liked him. And with Ron, it was obvious. Harry caught him staring at Hermione so many times that he wanted to kick him every time. Harry wished they would finally get closer. That’s why something had to be done.

Eventually, the portrait to the entrance opened with a soft noise. It was late, and Harry was sitting alone by the fire. He looked up hopefully and saw the grinning faces of his best friends. A grin spread across Harry's face as he saw them. They were holding hands, and Ron's face was even redder than his hair. His cloak was askew. Hermione's curls had come loose from her braid and were framing her face, which had a mischievous smile.

Harry stood up. "Finally!" Hermione pulled away from Ron and came toward him. "Oh Harry, you arse!" she exclaimed, punching him softly in the shoulder. But she was grinning widely. Pretending to be offended, Harry rubbed his arm. "Ouch, Hermione!" He looked at their happy faces and wondered what exactly had happened between the two of them.

With a cloth and some water, she shakily wiped the wound. But it didn’t help much. Hermione looked exhaustedly at her arm. She hadn’t properly washed herself in days. Only quick and hurried washes with the small basin they had in the tent. Whenever they had come across a river or a lake, they took a bath, but that was already a while ago now. Her fingernails were also full of dirt. She desperately needed a shower.

After roughly cleaning the wound, she pulled out her wand. Normally, she could perform the spell in her sleep. But this time, it drained so much energy that she had to stop mid-incantation. Sighing, she closed her eyes, feeling dizzy. She was too tired. So incredibly tired. The past few weeks had drained all her strength. Every day, she had thought she would collapse from exhaustion. But she kept going. Day after day. Now, though, after Bellatrix’s torture, a limit had been reached. She dreaded what would come next. What else they would have to endure. She wished she could just finish her last year at Hogwarts like a normal student. Would she even finish school? Would she ever see Hogwarts again?

A noise snapped her out of her thoughts. Startled, Hermione jumped up from the couch and spun around, pointing her wand at the intruder. But it was Ron, standing in the doorway, raising his hands slightly. “It’s just me,” he said.

Hermine sighed in relief. The constant tension and paranoia of the past few weeks had become so ingrained in her, that she suspected danger at every little movement. Ron gave her a crooked smile and sat down beside her on the sofa. Hermione turned to him. His clothes were dirty. He had a scratch on his forehead, and his hair could use a trim. He looked worn out. Hermione had never seen him so tired. “Where are the others? Are they okay? Are you okay?” she asked worriedly.

Ron nodded. “As okay as one can be. Harry’s at Dobby’s grave. Griphook—” He shrugged. “No idea. And the others are trying to make something to eat.”

Hermione wanted to protest and stand up. “In my bag—” But Ron held her back and gently pushed her back onto the sofa. “You’ve done enough. Get some rest.”

He looked at her seriously and with concern. “How are you?” he asked. Guilt washed over her face. She shook her head sadly. “I feel terrible that I couldn’t help Dobby. But I used the last bit of dittany on you.” She lifted her head, her eyebrows furrowing in worry.

Ron chuckled and pointed to Hermione’s still-exposed forearm. “I meant that, actually.” “Oh.” “But about Dobby… I don’t think it would’ve made a difference.” Ron said sadly. “The injury was too deep. We couldn’t have done anything.” Hermione sniffled. “I feel so sorry for Harry. He’s been through so much.” “We all have,” Ron said thoughtfully.

His gaze fell on Hermione’s wand in her hand. Carefully, he reached out for it. “Let me do that, okay?” Hermione looked up at him in surprise. Then she smiled and handed him her wand. She positioned her arm on his lap. Ron cleared his throat awkwardly. “There might be scars. I’m not as good at this spell as you are.” He gave her an apologetic look, and the blue in his eyes shimmered. “It’s fine.” she said softly. “It’s okay. I want to remember. That I made it.” She looked up at him. “That we made it. When all of this is over.”

Ron smiled. He brushed a strand of hair from her face. “You were so brave, Hermione. And tough. I don’t know if I could’ve done it…” Memories of the torture and Bellatrix’s insane laughter flooded her mind. She wished she could erase it all from her memory. She felt the tears welling up. Hermione blinked, trying to ignore it. But she couldn’t. Sobbing, she broke down. Covering her face with her hands. Without hesitation, Ron put the wand aside, gently pulled Hermione’s hands away from her face, and hugged her protectively. “It’s okay. You’re safe.” He stroked her back soothingly. “They can’t hurt you anymore.”

Hermione felt his strong arms around her shoulders. Despite the tears, her heart raced. He had lost weight—they all had—but Ron had also gained more muscle over the past few weeks. Hermione had no idea how he’d managed that, but she liked it. A lot. It made her feel safe with him. He continued to stroke her back, and her sobs gradually quieted. They stayed like that, embraced for several minutes.

“By the way, I’m sorry for running off like that.” he murmured into her hair, tightening the hug slightly. “And for making you choose between Harry and me. I was really mental.”

Hermione pulled away abruptly. “Ron, you’ve already apologized five times for that! It was the locket talking.” She wiped the tears from her cheek. Ron shrugged but smiled slightly. The sunlight through the window illuminated his face, revealing a shadow of stubble. His freckles seemed to glow more than ever, from so many days outdoors. Hermione felt the urge to kiss him. And it wasn’t the first time.

“Yeah, I know,” Ron said. “It was still stupid of me.” He reached out and wiped away a final tear off her cheek. Hermione’s heart sped up. His eyes were soft and lovingly, something she rarely saw in him. The last time had been, when he returned to her during the Horcrux hunt.

“I can’t imagine what you went through. I wish I could’ve stopped it. I wish I could’ve protect you more.” he said. She swallowed some tears. “You did everything you could.” Ron snorted. “But not enough.” He looked at her carefully. “Does it hurt a lot?”

Hermine lifted herself up a little. “It’s better now. The memories are worse than the pain.” A sympathetic expression crossed Ron’s face. He gently stroked her arm. “If there’s anything I can do…” he began. “You being here is more than enough.” Hermione replied, smiling at him. The smell of tea wafted up from the kitchen below. Suddenly, she realized how hungry she was. When had she last eaten? It must have been days ago.

“You’re so strong, Hermione,” Ron said affectionately. “Stronger than all of us. Damn, you even cast a memory charm on your own parents! I could never do that.” His eyes held admiration but also sorrow. She glared at him. “You promised me to never bring that up again!” It hurt too much. Ron looked sheepish. “Sorry. But it’s true.”

Hermione couldn’t help herself, she hugged him tightly. “I’m so glad you’re okay.” she admitted. Ron chuckled. “Me? I’m fine.” “But I’m scared,” she whispered into his arms. “That we won’t make it. That it was all for nothing.”

Ron stayed silent, simply holding her close. Hermione had almost forgotten she’d said anything when he finally replied. “Me too,” he murmured quietly. “But it won’t be. We’ll find the Horcruxes. And then we’ll destroy Voldemort, and everything will be okay.”

Hermione flinched and pulled away. It was the first time Ron had said his name. The name that embodied pure evil. “You said it!” Ron grinned reluctantly. “It’s just a name, right?”

Hermione let out a short laugh. She was proud of him. She remembered the eleven-year-old boy who had been afraid of everything. And now he was saying the most feared name in the world.

“Come on, let’s take care of your arm,” Ron said, slightly shifting away from her. Carefully, so that he could’nt hurt her, he took her left arm and rolled up the sleeve. He placed it on his lap and picked up Hermione’s wand, pointing it at the wound. Hermione couldn’t help but smile. He was really sweet. His eyebrows furrowed in concentration as he quietly recited the incantation.

A golden light appeared at the tip of the wand. It traveled to her arm and settled over the  injury. It tingled slightly. After a few seconds, the red mark faded. When the light disappeared and Ron lowered the wand, only faint lines remained. Where the injury had been, there now was a scar. It was lighter than the rest of her skin and still jagged. She could still read what had been written there, but now it no longer filled Hermione with the same terror.

“Thank you” she whispered, looking up at Ron’s face. He smiled, and Hermione thought she saw a hint of pride in his expression for managing the spell. It wasn’t an easy one. “I wish I could’ve made it disappear completely.” he said. Gently, he placed a finger on the scar. His skin was warm, but the touch sent a shiver down Hermione’s spine. Very lightly, Ron ran his finger over the scars, as if he could make them vanish.

“It’s so awful what she did to you! That witch should hang for it.” “Ron!” Hermione said, shocked. But he was right. “No, Hermione! It’s not fair! We’re trying to do the right thing, to stop the evil! And they can just do whatever they want! I’d love to go back and hit her with a death curse!” Ron’s outburst both startled and fascinated her. It was wrong for him to think that way, but it was sweet how much he cared about her well-being. And honestly, she’d thought about it too.

He looked at her. Anger was still written on his face. Hermione took his hand. “How are you going to hit her with a curse when you can’t even heal scars properly?” she teased. Ron looked briefly offended, but then he laughed. “Fair point!”

Hermione joined his laughter. And for the first time in a long while, her heart felt a little lighter. She looked at him. His mouth had curled into a grin. How much that grin had driven her crazy in the past! She had hated it and loved it at the same time.

Ron’s eyes softened, and the smile faded. Hermione suddenly felt the mood shifting. Tension hung in the air. She scanned Ron’s face, but he was just looking at her. Then his gaze dropped to her lips. Hermione’s thoughts raced, her hands grew sweaty. She felt more drawn to him than ever before. She wanted to kiss him but didn’t dare.

How ridiculous! She had faced one of the most powerful witches in the world today, and now she was too scared to kiss her best friend? For a few seconds, she wrestled with herself, not noticing how Ron’s face was getting closer. Then suddenly, he took the decision out of her hands.

He gently pressed his lips to hers. A firework of unspoken emotions overwhelmed Hermione. This was everything she always wanted. All the pain and tension of the past few weeks fell off her. She kissed him back cautiously. Ron slid his hand into her hair. Hermione had never felt safer in her life. She wrapped her arms around his shoulders, and he gently pulled her closer. Ron’s other hand moved up her leg, and Hermione shivered. Warmth spread through her veins. His hand settled on her waist, holding her tightly, as if he wanted to make sure she wouldn’t disappear. As if he wanted to keep her with him forever.

When they needed air, she pulled away. A wide smile spread across his face. Hermione giggled. “You have no idea how long I’ve wanted to do that,” he murmured, stroking her cheek lovingly. Her heart felt like it might burst. “Me too,” she replied. They leaned in again. Her heart pounded with anticipation and longing. But just as their lips were about to meet, they were interrupted.

“Tea’s ready. Oh!” Luna stood in the doorway. Startled, Ron and Hermione jumped apart. Luna looked from one to the other. “Well. You can come down whenever you’re ready.” she said with a knowing smile before disappearing back down the stairs.

Ron groaned. “Bet she’ll tell everyone?” Hermione took her hands off his shoulders. “She won’t. You know Luna.” “Exactly.” He looked at her sheepishly. For a moment, they just stared at each other, and Hermione was sure, that everything would be different from now on. She didn’t feel weak anymore, and as long as Ron was with her, she knew nothing could happen to her.

“We should probably, you know…” he said, tilting his head toward the door. Hermione nodded, but before she could stand up, Ron held out his hand to her. He smiled down at her, and Hermione took his hand as if it were the most natural thing in the world. He pulled her up and gave her a quick, small kiss.

Suddenly, the dragon hears something in the woods. A twig breaking. His eyes dart around and his ears twitch. A boy steps out of the woods. Climbing over the destroyed ground, that the dragon had created with his crash. Blasting fast, the night fury  closes his eyes, trying to stifle his breaths. He could hear the boy taking to himself. He could feel a boot against his leg. With an unsteady growl, he pushes the human away from him. How dare he put hand on him!?

He opens his eyes and could see the boy, a dagger in his hand. Fear rises up in his body and his primal instincts take over. He wants to flee but these stupid ropes pin him in place.

The boy now screams: "I'm a Viking!"

The night fury takes a deep breath. He could see the determination in he kids eyes. A feeling of hopelessness floods the dragon and he puts down his head. Waiting for the final strike. But that never comes. Instead, the buy cuts his strings lose. He is free! The night fury hesitates a split second. Then he furiously jumps onto the boy. Wants to kill him. But there is something in that kids eyes. The same fear, the black dragon just had seconds ago. So he gathers all his anger and roars loudly in his ears. He  turns, spreads his wings - only to crash again.

Stranded. He is stranded in this stupid cove. He had tried to fly away all this day. But the missing tain fin makes it impossible. Unsettled, he paces back and forth. There must be another way. He gets distracted when he hears someone approaching. It was the boy that shot him down. The night fury growles as a warning. But the boy doesn't seem afraid. The night fury's eyes fall onto the fish in the boys hand. His stomach rumours. When was the last time he had eaten something? Carefully, the boy comes closer. Pulling a dagger from his belt. The dragon moves into attack pose and growls. Ready to fight. But the viking boy throws the dagger away. He is no threat anymore, the dragon realises. Curiously, he closes the space between them, his eyes on the fish. The boy reaches out his hands and frownes.

"Toothless", he says.

Toothless!? What kinda name is that? But it seems funny, because the boy thought he had no teeth. A dragon without teeth, c'mon! But the boys smile moves something inside him.

In the next few weeks, the boy - whose name is Hiccup by the way - visits him almost every day. Brings him fish and talks to him. He tries to get to know him, to learn more about dragons. And Toothless tolerates it. He is also  curious about humans. He watches him write something in his little book. Watches him draw. And one day, the boy draws him - Toothless. The dragon has never seen that behaviour before. Normally, humans would kill him within seconds. Especially him. But that boy is different. Hiccup draws Toothless face and when the dragon imitates him, his eyes wide. It looks funny, Toothless thinks. The boy stumbles around, trying not to step onto the lines. Toothless watches him amused. And suddenly, he stands directly in front of the dragon. The boy hesitates. But then he slowly reaches out his hand. Toothless growls. That was way too close. Even for that boy. But then, he moves his head away, and something inside Toothless clicks. The kid could've already killed him if he wanted to. But he didn't. So Toothless decides to trust him. Let him touch him.

The next months, they became friends. Hiccup built a new tail fin for his dragon friend. Toothless could fly again! And even if the beginning was a bit rusty, due to the fact that his human friend had to help him steer, it feels heavenly. They fly around the islands and discover the place. It could have been amazing, if there weren't the villagers. They killed dragons their entire lives. And only his friend hiccup is the first one to befriend a dragon. Toothless is afraid, they could find and kill him. So they hide. But then they discover the dragon queen and they have to do something. They fightt it, kill it. And almost get killed themselves. Toothless can barely save his human friend.

The village turns into a dragons paradise. And Hiccup and this friends become a dragon rider squad. They discover islands, new dragon species and have a lot of adventures. The Viking boy, who almost killed him becomes his best friend. And Toothless his. As they get older, they change. But their friendship remains. One day, Toothless catches his friend staring at Astrid, the blonde viking girl in their group. Toothless knows, that Hiccup has a crush on her. But that stupid boy wouldn't admit it. So he has to help him a bit. Toothless pushes Hiccup's shoulder from behind. He stumbles, only his metal leg catching his weight. Toothless mimicking towards Astrid. Hiccups eyes wide. "Stop that!"

Toothless makes a little growl.

"No, I am not in love with her." Hiccup insist. But Toothless can see it. He can see it in his eyes, his movements. And sometimes, something inside him wishes he had the same feelings. That he could share his life with someone. Sure, there is Hiccup, but he is a human. And the other dragons, well they are a different species. He is the only night fury out there. Sometimes he just longs for someone who is just like him.

With the years passing, their adventures get bigger. They discover new worlds, Hiccup's lost mom. And they fight new enemies. But Drago Bludvist is another level. Somehow, he can control dragons. He even controlles Toothless. And he shots Stoick the Vast. He dies. Hiccups' father is dead. And it is his fault.

Toothless wings hurt. His heart hurt. He almost can't bear the fact that he - Hiccups best friend - killed his father. And now he is under Drago's control. But he can't do anything. He tries fighting against it, bit the whirring and buzzing in his head just gets louder. You killed him. He hates you. I am your new master. He hates you. It's your fault.

Toothless wants to give up. But Drago's control doesn't allow it. His gaze is blurred. Every cell of his body numb. But suddenly, a silhouette moves into his view. A voice. Hiccup? No that couldn't he, he hates him.

"It's me, bud"

Bud. Something inside him flickers. It is Hiccup! But the buzzing only gets louder, he couldn't hear him anymore.

"... not your fault." Not his fault?

"You're my best friend"

Toothless shakes his head. It must be Hiccup. The whirring fades for a second and he could see more clearly. Brown hair, green eyes. Hiccup! He doesn't hate him. He came back. His best friend came back! He lets out a happily roar and pushes Drago from his back.

A few years later, they have to leave Berk. Toothless' heart breaks, the island had become his new home over the last couple years. But he knows that his rider is devastated. Hiccup had been grown up there and now he has to leave this place. The only ray of hope for Toothless, is her. The lightfury. Every time he thinks of her, his heart flutters. He had never been in love before, but he knows it must be love. It feel exactly like the closeness Hiccup and Astrid had. Hiccup had told him a lot about those feelings. (Only in private of course, when no other dragon rider was around). He wants to see her every day, every second. And his rider had noticed that.

So one sunny afternoon, Hiccup builds a new tail. One that replicates the automatic tail Hiccup once gave him for Snoggletog. Toohless prances around excitedly while Hiccup tries to attach the tail fin. He closes the last straps and stepps a few metres away. "What do you think bud?"

Toothless growls happily and licks his human friend over his face. Hiccup laughes and complaines at the same time but Toothless doesn't bother. He turns around and runs into the woods, into his freedom. But at the end of the clearing he stopps and turns around. He lets him go. Hiccup lets him go. The dragon throws a questioning look at his friend. But Hiccups just smiles. "It's okay", he says approvingly.

It is time. It is time to leave. Toothless knows it is right, but on the other hand he doesn't want to leave his human friend. His best friend. The closest friend he ever had. How many adventures did they had! They all hold a special place in Toothless' heart. They always will. His eyes wander over to his human. Hiccup smiles but in his eyes shimmer tears.

"Alright bud. Its time.", he says. His smile shakes.

"You looked after us for long enough. Time to look after yourselves."

Toothless wants to cry but dragons can't cry. He is so grateful for all those years. Grateful that Hiccup shot him from the sky. Yes, even grateful that he lost his tail fin. Because if he hadn't, they woul've never became friends.

The dragon wants to show Hiccup all those thoughts. Wants to show him how much he means to him. How much he loves him. So he does what humans do to express their love. He rises up and puts his forelegs around Hiccup's shoulders. Hugs him tightly. He can feel Hiccup's small body unter him shudder.

"Go Toothless. Go", the boy whispers.

Toothless lets him go. Hiccup puts his hand onto his snout and closes his eyes. It immediately catapultes Toothless back to their early times when they just became friends. And for a second, it feels like no time has passed. His best friend lets his hand fall and he smiles. Then Toothless lets out a roar and the dragons rise up into the air.

He looks at Hiccup one last time. Then the nighr fury opens his wings and follows the other dragons into the sunset colored sky.

Something disturbs their peace. She had smelled the foreign scent and woke Toothless from his nap. He reaches his nose into the air and his instincts sharpen. He smells humans!

With a small growl, he tells his family to stay hid behind him. Toothless crawles onto the edge of the rock on which they had camped. Though the mist mandifests a viking boat. The night fury rises his wings and moves into attack position. With a powerful jump, he closes the distance and lands on the deck of the boat. Four humans stare at him. A blonde woman holds two children close to her. And in front of them stands a man with brown hair and a beard. Toothless growls. But then, the man reaches out a hand. Irritated, Toothless hesitates and sniffs.

A familiar scent rushes through his body. And suddelny, thousand memories flood his mind. Memories from his past. From a boy with his dragon friend. A boy that wanted to kill a dragon but befriended it instead. Their first flight. The Alpha. Berk. Dragon's Edge. Snoggletog. Dragon races. And vikings.