When a dragon seeks asylum from his deranged owners, a timid girl must choose between protecting or surrendering him to the influential family.
Dedicated to Teddy, H.H & Eli, in honor of our childhood days.
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DAPHNE, a timid 12 year old has managed to live alone in the town's local library during her parents' messy divorce. Every day after school, she routinely tends to the library's garden, afraid of anything and everything. However, when a dragon's appearance in her life threatens her desire to hide away in peace, she discovers maybe standing up for a friend is worth more than running away.
HILLBELLY, a young dragon who just witnessed his mother's death by the hands of the witches escapes in fear. After taking flight, he stumbles upon the slightly unkept but charming garden belonging to Daphne and begs her for asylum. Unfortunately, his owners' powers extend beyond their house in the dark woods and puts his new friend and himself in danger.
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A novella written for ONC 2026
Prompts: 3, 16, 80
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