Chapter 3
Harry Potter stood on the edge of the dragon reserve, the cool wind whipping his robes around his legs. He had received Charlie Weasley's invitation weeks ago, but only now did he find the time to visit. The Romanian Dragon Sanctuary had always intrigued him, and he knew Charlie was the perfect guide.
As he walked through the gates, he spotted Charlie waiting for him, a wide grin on his face.
"Harry! Glad you could make it," Charlie called, striding over to clap him on the shoulder.
"It's good to see you, Charlie. This place is amazing," Harry replied, his eyes scanning the vast landscape dotted with dragon habitats.
Charlie nodded. "It is. Come on, I'll give you the tour."
They walked through the sanctuary, Charlie explaining the different species of dragons and their unique behaviors. Harry listened intently, fascinated by Charlie's passion and knowledge.
After an hour of walking and talking, they reached a secluded area where a large, majestic dragon lay sunning itself on a rocky outcrop.
"This is Norberta," Charlie said with a hint of pride. "You might remember her as Norbert."
Harry's eyes widened in recognition. "Hagrid's dragon! I can't believe she's grown so much."
Charlie chuckled. "Yeah, she's a beauty. One of our most well-behaved dragons, actually."
Harry watched in awe as Norberta stretched her wings and let out a low, rumbling growl. He could feel the heat radiating from her body, the sheer power and majesty of the creature leaving him speechless.
"Want to get a closer look?" Charlie asked.
Harry nodded eagerly, and they approached the dragon slowly. Norberta watched them with curious eyes but remained calm as Charlie spoke to her in soothing tones.
"You can touch her if you want," Charlie said, guiding Harry's hand to Norberta's scaled side.
Harry's fingers brushed against the dragon's warm, rough skin, and he felt a thrill of excitement. "She's incredible," he murmured.
Charlie smiled. "She really is. There's something special about dragons, something that connects you to them on a deeper level."
Harry looked at Charlie, seeing the genuine affection in his eyes. "You've found your calling, haven't you?"
Charlie nodded. "Yeah, I suppose I have. Working with dragons is dangerous, but it's also incredibly rewarding. They teach you a lot about respect, patience, and strength."
They spent the rest of the afternoon talking and bonding over their shared experiences. Harry felt a sense of camaraderie with Charlie that he hadn't felt in a long time. It was refreshing to be with someone who understood the complexities of the magical world but also appreciated the simpler joys of life.
As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the sanctuary, Harry knew he had found a friend in Charlie. They stood side by side, watching Norberta take flight, her massive wings beating against the twilight sky.
"Thanks for inviting me, Charlie," Harry said, feeling a deep sense of gratitude.
Charlie smiled, clapping Harry on the back. "Anytime, Harry. You're always welcome here. Besides, I think the dragons like you."
Harry laughed, feeling lighter than he had in months. As he left the sanctuary, he knew he would return. There was something about the dragons, and about Charlie, that made him feel at home.