Jeremy Thatcher, Dragon Hatcher

Spess is thrilled about his chance to compete in the art contest, but Jeremy, feeling increasingly isolated, is still consumed with worry about Tiamat and their inevitable parting. Mary Lou waits for him after school, but he tells her that he doesn’t want to discuss what happened. She points out that Tiamat is also waiting for him, and the dragon swoops down and carries Jeremy off into the air. She flies him home, giving him a thrilling but disorienting view of Blodgett’s Crossing from above.

Later, after everyone else is asleep, Jeremy goes flying with Tiamat again, and these flights become a nightly ritual for them. Despite enjoying the flights and their close bond, Jeremy is becoming increasingly drained by the practicalities of feeding and caring for the dragon, and his mother starts to worry about his health. She takes him to the doctor, who tells him to go to sleep earlier; he easily agrees to do this because it gives him more energy for his secret nighttime flights with Tiamat.

June 23 isn’t only Midsummer Night; it is also the last day of sixth grade. Spess wins first prize in the art contest, and Jeremy wonders whether his friend will remember their deal to share the prize.