Chapter 12 Best friends

The next morning, I was out of bed and ready to go at six. Both my parents got up to see me leave. We said goodbye tearfully, hugging each other and promising to write every week.

My father took me aside for a moment. "Fiona, before you go, I want to talk to you about a couple of things."

I nodded. He continued, seriously, "I know you have all these new powers, but I want you to find a job. You need money to survive, even if you can do things nobody else can. Also if you happen to meet... someone... just, well, be careful who you put your trust in."

"Okay, Dad." He enfolded me in a hug, and my mother kissed me on the cheek. "Be careful, don't get into trouble, and don't use your abilities for anything other than good."

"I won't."

Then finally I was out the door. I ran to the edge of the lake, leaping over the embankment and ducking under the dock. I was about to get into the water when I heard something move behind me. I didn't think, I just dropped to the ground and rolled over into a crouching position.

"Wow. I saw your 'karate' show yesterday, but I kinda thought that was a one time thing. But, I mean, wow!"

"Raven!" I burst out, "You scared the tar out of me! What are you doing down here anyway?"

She shrugged and grinned. "I kinda figured you would leave. After all, it's not every day you turn into a dragon! But," She continued, "I won't let you leave without me. You're my best friend and where you go, I go."

I stared at her, trying to think of a way to prevent her from tagging along.

I gave it up as a lost cause.

"Fine," I sighed, "you can come along. But I'm warning you, it's going to be a bumpy ride, literally and metaphorically."

If possible, Raven looked even happier when she heard that part. "Ooohhh, can I ride on your back? Oh this is sooo cool, I'm going to be a dragon rider...!"

Raven continued babbling as I thought about how to leave without being seen. Only one possibility presented itself as having any chance of success.

"Raven," I said, cutting her off, "If you want to come, you are going to have to hold your breath."