This story will be written in smallish chapters :) All the chapters other then the most recent will be kept in spoilers. I'll try to update, but updates may take a while. I would love constructive criticism c: Anyway, I hope you enjoy the story! I'm going to add a picture a little later into the story, as I want it to be relevant but not give anything away :) The story is set in a place where there are dragons, as well as other mythical creatures, but the setting isn't medieval or modern, it's kinda in between :) The family doesn't have a ton of money, but they aren't super poor either. They have money for enough food, etc, but not much to spare.

Chapter 1:
Gingerly, I pick my way through the room. I bite my lip to keep from screaming as I tread on a shard of glass. I bend over, and pull it out of my foot, wincing at the blood that flows out. I see him now, on the
other side of the room, watching me. Curiosity seems to radiate from him, and he catches my eye. His face is startlingly familiar, but I have never met him before…

---

“Mama!” I skip through the house. Today is the day I have been waiting for for a long time, and I can hardly contain myself. The sun is only half visible, but it’s enough for me. I run into Mama’s bedroom, where she is sitting up on the bed, waiting for me.

“Happy birthday Jard. I know it’s not much, but I got this for you.” Mama hands me a gift, wrapped in newspaper.

I pull open the package eagerly. Inside is a tunic, well made, but old looking.

“You got me CLOTHES?” My good mood changes in an instant. “What is WRONG with you?

I throw the present in her face, and storm out of the room. There are tears on Mama’s face as I slam the door.

“Pathetic gift, clothes, what is wrong with her, pathetic, weak…” a trail of angry words pour from my mouth as I pace the house. I know she got me what she thought I’d want, but as my Mama, she should know that  would never want clothes. She might as well have gotten me books. It’s so unfair. Other kids get toys and chocolates for their birthday. Why couldn’t Mama just be normal?

It takes a long time for me to calm down. Whenever I think I’m calm, another angry thought bubbles up, and makes my head spin again. Finally, I feel a little better, and head to my room, pulling the door shut behind me. I lay on my bed, breathing hard. After a few minutes, Mama comes in. I can see the tear tracks on her cheeks.

“I’m sorry Jard. I went to the shop, but I couldn’t afford anything I thought you would want. They were your Pa’s. Have I ruined your birthday?”

“No.” I mutter. “I’m sorry too.

I don't mean it. Mama has ruined my birthday, and now she is trying to guilt my by talking about Pa. It's just not fair! It's my special day, and I want special treatment!