Hawthorn and her family were eating dinner in the biggest hut of their tree home. On the table of vines, there were small plates made of woven reeds that were dried out.  The platters and bowls were made of the same materials. In one bowl, there was a salad with lettuce, hawthorn berries, apples, and the juice of strawberries as dressing. On the platter, however, was a few small wood thrush birds. Fern, Hawthorn’s mother,  and Autumn, her father, were sitting in front of her. She always had one side of the table to herself, being the only child. The three dragons served themselves food, and prayed to Clearsight to thank her for the food. They sat there in silence for a moment. Autumn looked at Fern and she nodded her head slightly. Her mother looked at her.

“Hawthorn, what would you think about going to school?”

“What?” She looked at her parents in surprise, dropping a half-eaten bird leg. “Why would I go to school? I have everything I need right here.”

“You need to interact with other dragons. Social skills are important in life.”

“Maybe, but your more important than other dragons. Besides, I can learn whatever I need from you two.”

“It’s final. We have you signed up already. Ivy Academy will be good for you.”

“Fine,”

They eat the rest of the dinner in silence. After, Hawthorn flew to her hut. It was small; only holding her bed, a bowl of water, and some scrolls. She laid down on her  leaf bed and pulled a blanket on herself. As she drifted off to sleep, she wondered I hope this new school is worth it.