[ TT ] The dragons and smallfolk have finally brokered peace through an exchange of hostages : two hatchlings for 20 children . Well , 19 children . They sent you back .

`` Johnny, baby your home,'' screamed the frantic mother, tears of joy and confusion streaming down her face. `` How did you get away! We must hide you. Where, where, where,'' she thought and looked and fretted. She was not going to lose him again no mater what the High Council said. 
 
 `` Dad, I'm home,'' yelled Johnny as he ran to his father expecting an enormous hug. `` What is this, what are you doing here,'' stammered a much confused senior elder. `` They did n't want me Dad, the dragon master said I could go home.'' 
 
 `` What do you mean did n't want you?'' 
 
 `` Ahhh, the dragons they just like said to leave -- - kind of immediately. It was that or flame broiling.'' 
 
 `` Did you do something to dishonor our family name?'' 
 
 `` Frank, are you serious? We get our son back and all you can think about is your standing in the community?'' 
 
 `` Dear, must I remind you, Johnny lost every single physical competition and failed every single mental test our board of elders selected for the choosing of the 20 -- - every single one. What do you think the other mothers are going to say when all of a sudden one of their children has to take Johnny's place? He's already embarrassed this family enough and now this shame. It's too much to bear. Just too much.'' 
 
 `` But Dad, the dragons do n't want a replacement. They are OK with 19.'' 
 
 `` Son, this does n't make any sense. They're dragons. What did you do?'' 
 
 `` Well, I'm not exactly sure. I just thanked them for dinner and for giving me a soft place to sleep in the cave and then kind of hugged a few of them. You know, just around the legs. The necks are way too big and high up to reach.'' 
 
 The mother moved over slowly and caressed her son gently and proudly, turning eventually with an accusing eye to her husband. `` It was me who taught him kindness, and manners and to respect all life. You said I was turning him into a Momma's boy. Son, I have never been more proud of you,'' she said, cupping his young face in her trembling hands. 
 
 Frank joined his wife and son, hugging both fiercely, a lone tear sliding along his cheek. `` I know what I must do tomorrow. I will meet with the elders and tell them of my sons great bravery and wisdom. I will convince them to release one of the dragon hatchlings. Maybe we can live together in peace without hostages.'' 
 

