Chapter 347: The Signal
By the third week at the Dragon Reserve, Kyle had settled into the rhythm of its mix of busy and relaxed days—and was reaping the rewards. Just from selling damaged or lower-quality dragon materials, he'd managed to earn a tidy sum of 125 Galleons, enough for two pairs of Shield Gloves. But his luck was about to run dry.
In the second week, the dragons had gone into their most intense and prolonged battle yet. Even Kyle, usually content with his quieter role, couldn't sit still. Together with Newt and Chris, he scrambled to tend to three injured dragons—more than they'd had to care for in the previous two weeks combined.
When the dust settled, only two dragons remained in the sky: a Hungarian Horntail and a larger Ukrainian Ironbelly—though not the one they'd dealt with before. This one was even bigger. After just a day's rest, the two dragons resumed their fight, vying for the highest cliff, the most coveted spot in the reserve. The dragon keepers and other observers gathered, eager to see the final outcome.
Despite the Ironbelly's intimidating size—Charlie estimated it weighed around seven tons, dwarfing the Hungarian Horntail—it didn't have his confidence. "Size isn't everything. This one lacks the experience of old Pinot. If he'd seized his chance when everyone else was grounded, he might have had a shot. But now..." Charlie shook his head. "A big body means big energy needs, and one day of rest isn't enough. The Horntail knew this and struck first—he doesn't stand a chance."
Sure enough, after only three hours, the Ukrainian Ironbelly's movements had slowed, its flight becoming sluggish and unstable. Meanwhile, the Hungarian Horntail, with a hunter's precision, used its speed to its advantage, wearing down its opponent with sharp, calculated strikes. The crowd could see that the outcome was inevitable; it was only a matter of time.
As the tension waned, Professor Lochneal, looking a bit bored, strolled over to Kyle. "Hogwarts starts up again soon, doesn't it?" he asked in a low voice. "In September?"
"September 1st," Kyle confirmed. "Just under two weeks away."
"That would make you a fourth year, yes?" Lochneal continued.
"Right," Kyle nodded.