Liyal often wished animals immediately loved him. They treated him just like people did. The more playful and hyperactive they were the better they liked Liyal. Cats in particular didn't like him, dragons so far seemed split down the middle. Probably smart enough to know that he was harmless unless you weren't ready for when trouble came knocking.
It had been a few times, but he still felt complete awe when he saw her. A dragon. Monster steeds and the occassional (benign) giant wooly croc were as bag as it got where he was. Although some of the flatter fish that came seasonally could look frightening big, they were nothing in sheer scope. That wingspan!
Liyal wanted to be a dragon, even if for the most split of seconds. He caught Kiernan's eye and the giddy glee had to be apparent. Her descent sent his long, straight hair flying around his face and he used his hands to part it so he didn't miss. The supple, almost feline way she operated her claws to land. She had the rapt attention that books and studying couldn't. His fingers twisted in the air as his mind tried to work out what it must be like for her to work those wings.
"F-f-f-f-fly?" He asked excitedly, before his hair had even untangled itself from the air.