Lina stood at the edge of the dark forest, staring at the mountain where the dragon lived. Most villagers wouldn’t go near it — but she was on a mission.
Her little brother had fallen ill, and the dragon was rumored to have a magical herb that could cure any sickness.
As she approached the cave, the dragon opened one eye. “Another hero?” he grumbled.
“I’m not a hero,” Lina said. “Just desperate.”
The dragon huffed smoke. “Well, aren’t you barking up the wrong tree? I don’t do charity.”
Lina didn’t flinch. “Name your price.”
The dragon raised an eyebrow. “You’ve got guts, I’ll give you that.”
She made a deal: a riddle for the herb. If she failed, he’d eat her.
She took a deep breath. “Let’s get the ball rolling.”
An hour later, she solved the riddle. The dragon laughed.
“You’re the first human to beat me in centuries. I like you. The ball’s in your court now — do you want the herb or a second wish?”
Lina smiled. “I’ll take the herb. One miracle is enough.”
Idioms Used in the Story
1. On a mission
Meaning: Determined to achieve something important.
Examples:
- She’s on a mission to finish the project before Friday.
- He was on a mission to find the truth.
2. Bark up the wrong tree
Meaning: To pursue the wrong course or blame the wrong person.
Examples:
- If you think I took your phone, you’re barking up the wrong tree.
- The police barked up the wrong tree in the investigation.
3. Have guts
Meaning: To be brave and courageous.
Examples:
- It takes guts to speak up in that meeting.
- She had the guts to face the bully.
4. Get the ball rolling
Meaning: To start something, especially a process or plan.
Examples:
- Let’s get the ball rolling on the new campaign.
- He got the ball rolling by suggesting the first idea.
5. The ball’s in your court
Meaning: It’s your turn to make a decision or take action.
Examples:
- I’ve made my offer — now the ball’s in your court.
- She apologized, so the ball’s in his court.
