Prize for Submitting First Story to the MC4A Forum August 1st, 2018
Prompt: Harry/Luna/Neville Horseback Riding
Dedication: MissBookworm1704
Word Count: (Per Google Docs) 300
It was Luna's idea to train thestrals to be ridden. The stables and paddock were simple additions to the school's grounds. Neville and Harry asked why she wanted to have the creatures harnessed for more than just pulling the carriages at Hogwarts.
"They proved themselves worthy as companions to us before, why not make the students more comfortable around them? Extra curricular activities are encouraged, after all," she reasoned, brushing her favourite thestrals mane.
They knew riding thestrals wasn't going to be a popular choice among the students, but the creatures still needed the practice, so they agreed to help her saddle and ride–fly–them with her.
Neville was the most nervous about handling his mare, but Luna made sure to keep the lead rope attached to the bridle when they took to the skies above the forest. She assured him his thestral was the most trained of the three.
"I won't let her wander away."
He found Luna flying beside him, with Harry on the other side, more comforting than the comment. The cool air rushed by with the beat of the creatures wings was calming, making the descent to a clearing in the forest unnoticeable.
Harry landed first, heading for the trail-head that lead up the mountainside. Luna and Neville landing close behind, falling into single file behind him. The dim forest almost camouflaged their mounts, making the trek to their campsite destination be undisturbed by the creatures of the wood.
Staying overnight in the forest was their little secret. Luna knew getting her boys away from the school helped lower their stress levels; it helped her, too. It gave Neville the opportunity to harvest a plant that only grew on the mountain, and it gave Harry the relaxation he needed.
Best of all, it drew them closer together.