especially as Fen was doing his best to make the task easier for the dragon. Bess was well aware that they were getting ready for their lesson together.
Once the saddle was secured and the stirrups roughly positioned, it was time for the bridle. Compared to a horse’s, this was simpler for bess. The leather straps were fastened over the head, above the beast’s jaw, so as not to hinder it when attacking an opponent with its teeth. For practical reasons, there was also no need to use a bit. Bess was very good at reading even the slightest tugs on the reins and responded to them flawlessly.
Once everything was in place, Draco was satisfied. The straps and buckles sat comfortably without hindering Fenrir, and the saddle sat securely on his back. The stablehand, who had been watching the dragon’s every move, walked round the bess, checking various details. The reptile had to admit that the man had nerves of steel, as he didn’t react in the slightest to Fen’s discontented growls and his somewhat chaotic movements as he tried to avoid him. Finally, the saddling process was given the go-ahead, so Draco took his mount’s reins and set off with him towards the exit.
Pleased with himself, he paid no attention to what was happening around him, focusing instead on Fenrir and his behaviour. Bess, however, seemed very keen to cooperate. He strode briskly ahead and even looked at the dragon reproachfully, as if to ask why they were walking so slowly and why they weren’t riding off yet.
It was only the stifled cries that brought Draco back to reality. He stepped out in front of the stables, and Fen poked his head over Draco’s shoulder, baring his teeth as he eyed the other cadets.
The students looked shocked as they stared at the pitch-black beast and its blood-red eyes. Some even took a step back.
The reptile felt a nudge and realised he’d stopped in the middle of the aisle, blocking the way. Without waiting for another reminder, he pulled Fen to one side, towards the
