My mind was spinning. My heart was racing. My mouth was moving but no words formed. The only thing I could manage to say was,

“Why me?”

The dragon peered closer at me and spoke the words,

“You are special. You are you. You are the daughter of the first flower - a lily. You are the last living relative of the ancient Hazel Tree - the beginning of all nature. The Earth began... with you. This is the true reason why you were chosen. Now, make the final choice. Will you accept my offer, or will you decline?”

I looked to mum as if I wanted permission although we both knew I had made my decision. The dragon released me and I ran forward and hugged her as tight as I could before slowly backing away and turning to the dragon. I don’t know how long that moment lasted, it felt like a lifetime but it soon ended and I told the dragon in my most determined, firm voice,

“I accept.”