The Things He Learned

Taku bowed before his father. His brother and sister knelt with him.

“You have all been to study. Tell me what you learned.”

“I have been to the Nestling Tree,” said Taku’s brother. “I have learned growth and self-sustenance.”

“I have been to the Singing Fish,” said Taku’s sister. “I have learned to dwell in the dark and the deep.”

“I have been to the Wisest Stone.” Taku thought hard before he spoke. “His lessons were not always easy to understand. I have learned patience and hardness.” He gathered himself and leapt. Everyone gasped. “And I have learned to fly.”