Ninjago stories

Mia's Science Fair

Jay was in the library, looking at his assignments online. Mia was browsing for a book about Parkinson's Disease. And Butterscotch? Well, he was just being... Butterscotch. Chasing balls. Wagging his tail. Licking Mia and rubbing her arm.

" Isn't it great that Butterscotch and Mrs. Parodies are great friends." Jay whispered to Mia, watching the interaction between the friendly dog and friendly-est librarian.

Mia nodded quickly, running to the computer to check the aisle of the book for the tenth time.

" Can't find it?" Jay walked to Mia and placed a comforting arm on her shoulder.

" This is critical if I want to win that science fair." Mia whispered back, running back to the books.

Jay sighed and sank back into his chair. Mia had been talking about that science fair for the past two weeks. The winner would be on every magazine in their community, receive a plaque, and receive a check for $15,000! Mia had competed last year and had one first place. Now, she wanted to win again, and this time, split her money with the Parkinson's boxing place, who was helping her with her project.

" Closing time, Mia dear!" Mrs. Parodies gently called to an engrossed Mia.

" What?" Mia cried out, her head shooting up from the book section.

"Mia, I'm sorry you couldn't find the book today," Mrs. Parodies said with a warm smile as she approached Mia and Jay. "But don't worry, I'll keep an eye out for it. Sometimes these things take a bit of time to find, but I'm sure we'll locate it eventually."

Mia looked up from her search, her expression a mix of disappointment and determination. "Thank you, Mrs. Parodies. I really appreciate it. This project means a lot to me."

Mrs. Parodies patted Mia's shoulder gently. "I know it does, dear. And I admire your dedication. If anyone can find the information you need, it's you. Now, it's time to close up shop. You two should head home and get some rest."

Jay nodded in agreement. "Yeah, Mia, let's call it a day. We can come back tomorrow and try again. And who knows, maybe Mrs. Parodies will have found that book by then."

Mia sighed but nodded, reluctantly closing her laptop. "Okay, let's go. Thanks again, Mrs. Parodies."

As Mia gathered her things reluctantly, Jay packed up his own belongings and joined her at the library exit.

"Still no luck?" he asked sympathetically.

Mia shook her head, her frustration evident. "I can't believe they don't have a single book on Parkinson's Disease. How am I supposed to gather enough information for my project?"

Jay frowned, pondering the predicament. "Well, maybe we can try another library or look online. There has to be some resource out there."

Mia brightened slightly at the suggestion. "Yeah, you're right. Thanks, Jay. I'll figure something out."

As they stepped out into the cool evening air, Butterscotch bounded ahead, eager to continue their adventure. Jay glanced at Mia, noticing the determination in her eyes despite her setback.

"We'll find what you need, Mia. And you're going to do amazing at that science fair," he reassured her.

" Thanks. I know I've been a bit...." Mia paused to find the right word. " Preoccupied."

" It's fine. Anyway, when's your next testing session?"

" Tomorrow, Eight O clock. I need your help rehearsing."

" Rehearsing? Rehearsing what?" Jay asked, confused.

" What I'm gonna say to the elders!"

Jay gently placed a hand on Mia's shoulder as they ascended the stairs to their home. "Mia, you've got this. You've done all the research, put in the hard work. Just speak from your heart."