I groaned and slowly opened my eyes to see everything's bright all around me. I shook my head, shaking out of my daze and I slowly got up on my feet.

I looked around and everywhere I look is all white. I cocked my head. What's going on? Where's Wayne and the others?

Am I...Dead?

I was about to walk around until I could see two figures in the distance. They look like dragons. I squinted at the brightness all around me and I gasped when I recognized them.

Mother....Father...

My parents they're...Here.

My mother had blue scales just like me, they've shown brightly and my father shown his black scales.

My mother and father came to me both with smiles on their faces. They both sat down on their haunches in front of me. My mother said, "Hello daughter."

I tried to form words and I stuttered. Then I finally smiled and said, "You're here."

They both nodded, my father said, "Yes, we are."

I said, "Am I dreaming?"

My father said, "Whether it's a dream, or it's real, we're here and we're talking to you."

I walked to them and I nuzzled my father and then my mother. I said, "I missed you guys. You...You were dead a long time ago."

My mother nodded, "Yes we have, and we have missed you as well. And look at yourself, you're all grown up."

I cocked my head, "Where's Wayne? Where's Neal? Where is everybody?"

My father waved me off, "Listen daughter...This is not an ordinary world. You came here to make a choice."

I asked, "Choice?"

My father nodded, "Yes, you see you now have a choice. To either stay with us or stay with Wayne and your friends. You have been through so much. Now it's your choice."

I backed away from them, pretty stunned. Wait I remember now. I was bleeding to death, because of the mayor. He bit down on my neck hard. That's why I was bleeding so much.

Wayne was trying to help me. I flew with him and the others to a...Human town. So the humans would help me.

That's the last thing I remember, before I...Blacked out.

So I'm either dead or I'm just in a...In between world. I've heard stories about this place. My parents told me about it.

That's when I heard a voice behind me, "Sierra."

I looked over my shoulder and saw to my happiness that it's Eric. And he's looking up at me, smiling brightly.

I whirled around on  my parents and I lowered my head to his level and I nuzzled him, "Eric...You're here too."

He wrapped his arms around my neck, "Yes I am."

I pulled away from him and I said, "Eric...You have no idea...How much I've missed you. So much so I've desired for you to come back."

Eric giggled, "Well so have I. After all you have been through so much since I died." Then he had a glum look on his face, "You...Didn't let me go for years. For over a thousand years, you didn't let me go."

I had a glum look on my face and I turned my gaze away from him, "I'm sorry, Eric. I really am."

He shrugged and shook his head, "About what? That you didn't save me? That you couldn't let me go? You don't have to apologize, there are some things that are way beyond your control. Besides that, you didn't kill me, the mayor did."

I sighed, "But I killed the wrong creature years ago. I thought it was the king who killed you, but I was wrong. It was the mayor the whole time."

Eric said, "But he did a lot of bad things. The king did. Even he deserved to die as well."

I looked at him, "But...Even though he did so many horrible things...I still didn't feel like I was myself. But now...I don't feel like I was a monster anymore."

He said, "And you thought that I didn't love you anymore, even after I died. Because of what you thought you've done."

I nodded, "I left the dragon city, because I thought I was a monster and I was ashamed. And yes...That's also the other reason why, because I thought about you a lot. That you were screaming for my name for help. Your...Human mate's name." Then I shut my eyes tight. Trying to not let the tears form.

He took my face in his hands and kissed my nose, "Sierra...You were never a monster, even you know that now. And I...Never hated you. Of course, you were a bully to the humans for a long time since I died, but I could never hate you. You thought the humans never cared about you. Never cared about you as a friend or a lover. But there are a lot who do. And I think you know who I'm talking about." He gave me a comforting smile.

I said, "You know Eric...After Wayne told me that you would always love me no matter what, I tried to imagine it, that you did. And now since you're now telling me this, I believe it now." I sighed, "But even when I'm with...Wayne...I still think about you. You...Were always in my heart."

He kissed my nose again, "And you always were in my heart as well. But Wayne has saved you. A lot more than I have. I wished I saved you from your torment and guilt, but Wayne did and I can appreciate him for that. He's a great guy."

I smiled at him, "You really are an understanding person, you know that?"

Eric giggled, "That's what I am, and you never have lost your feelings. Even when you were in your darkest of days, you still are the same blue dragoness with a really big heart. And I'm proud that you have found happiness without me. You've kept your promise for me and now you have found someone else to love and be with."

I said, "Yes I did. And Wayne...Really makes me happy."

Eric nodded, "And now's your chance to go back to him. You don't have to leave him, you still have a chance to live a long and happy life with him."

I had a worried look on my face, "But...What about you? I mean...Can't you come with me? I mean...Wayne would love to meet you and-"

Eric just shook his head, "You know I can't do that. I can't go with you."

I nodded, "I understand...I wish...I wish you did. Wayne would really like you a lot. And so would Cody and Amanda. They never met you either."

Eric said, "Well you do seem to talk about me a lot."

I giggled and shrugged, "Well I try not to be a blabber mouth about it." Then we both laughed. My parents came to us and they smiled. I smiled back at them.

Then I saw another human figure coming out of nowhere. I recognized it. A human female. It's Wayne's best friend. The human Joanna. Joanna Stanton.

Joanna came to me and rubbed my nose with her hand. She smiled at me and said, "You know...I could see why Wayne likes you, you're very beautiful."

I giggled shyly and said, "Thank you." Then I said, "You know...Wayne is a great guy."

Joanna nodded, "Yes he is. Hell he has great parents."

I said, "But he liked being with you more. He...Thought of you as a mother."

Joanna smiled, "Yes he did, and he named a dragoness after me. And I thought that was very sweet of him." Then she had a glum look on her face, "I...I'm really sorry he thought that he killed me. But he never did. It was...My fault."

I shook my head, "He doesn't think it's his fault that you died anymore. I helped convince him of that."

Joanna giggled, "Well at least someone finally came through for him. Even his parents tried to help him, but they couldn't. Now that Wayne's very happy, he can live in peace."

I frowned at her, "That reminds me, he said you had lung cancer and you didn't get help for it. I have to ask....Why didn't you help yourself? Why did you just want to...Die?"

Joanna rubbed the back of her neck and said, "Well...It's because I saw you and him."

My eyes went wide, "What? What are you talking about?"

She shook her head, "Look I had visions before I died, Wayne knew it and I never told him that one. The vision I had about you it just came to me. It was one night when I was sleeping and I saw you, all alone and sad. Angry at the world. But then I saw Wayne. He showed up and you didn't look sad anymore. You were really happy. And I knew that somehow...You two were meant to find each other. It was like fate was always trying to tell me something. I never told him this because I thought he wouldn't have believed me. That dragons actually existed and he would meet one."

Joanna giggled, "And of course I was surprised that you and him have a intimate relationship together, but I see that you're not an ordinary creature, you're a human just like me and Eric here. He even told me about you. Saying that you and him were together before he died. The way he talks about you, it sounds to me that you're special."

I asked, "So is that why you didn't want to live? Because of that vision? Because you saw me and I was so sad?"

She nodded, "You were right about one thing, if it wasn't for my death, he wouldn't have met you. I did die and he did meet you. I wish that I did tell him this, that way he would have had closure for my death."

Eric said, "And if it wasn't for my death in a tragic fire and if the mayor didn't kill me, you wouldn't have met HIM. Fate really did bring you two together. Just like fate brought me and you. And it brought, Wayne and Joanna together as well. Several things happen for a reason. And why she had that vision, that's one of them."

I raised my head and said, "Gosh guys...I talked to Wayne about fate. But now...Fate really did bring us together. Your deaths really did mean something."

Joanna nodded, "That's right. But your death." Then she shook her head, "Won't mean anything. Wayne will be alone without you. Without you, then all of this would have been for nothing."

My mother said, "Not yet daughter. You still have a life to live. Don't die yet."

Eric said, "But you still have a choice. Either you stay with me, or you stay with Wayne. I won't force you, it's your choice."

My eyes went wide. Eric...Wayne...

I would always think of Eric, he was my first real boyfriend who really did understand me. Of course I was with Neal, but he would always be my best friend, nothing more. Now...It's Wayne, who understands me just like Eric.

I can't let Wayne go. I can't.

Eric...I will always love you, but I love Wayne.

I...I have to go home. I won't leave him. I love him.

I lowered my head to Joanna and Eric's level and said, "I'm going home. Back where I belong. I have a happy life now and I shall share it with Wayne. I won't leave him."

Eric smiled and nodded, "I knew you would say that. He's better than I was."

I shook my head, "No one is better than you. You and Wayne are just different."

Eric wrapped his arms around my neck and he kissed me on the mouth. He pulled away and said, "I will always love you...Sierra."

I nodded, "Well...At least you can have your human mate now. She's here too, I imagine."

Eric giggled, "Oh yes, she is. I told her about us and she didn't seem to mind it at all. She really was glad that I was happy."

I grinned, "Glad to hear it." Then I looked at Joanna, "Don't worry...Human Joanna. I'll look after Wayne. I'll keep that vision of yours true."

Joanna laughed, "Human Joanna? Boy, what a nickname."

I giggled, "Well sometimes I confuse myself, so I just name you human Joanna. It seems easier to me."

Joanna shrugged, "Oh I don't mind it at all."

I said, "And about Wayne...He said hello."

Joanna smiled, "I know. Tell him I said hello as well."

I nodded, "I will." Then I raised my head and looked at mom and dad. I said to them, "Well...I'm going to miss you guys."

Father smiled and said, "We're so proud of you, for becoming the dragoness you should be. We are so proud that you became our daughter."

I said, "I'll tell my uncle you two said hello to him. He would appreciate it."

Mother said, "We miss him too. But thank you."

I nuzzled my mother and then my father and muttered, "I love you guys. I'll miss you." Then all of a sudden they all started to fade away and my face was wide with shock. They completely disappeared. Then I saw a doorway appear in front of me.

I smiled at it. It's time to go home. I walked to it, ready to go through it.

*****

I moaned and I opened my eyes slowly, I could see the sun shining down my face. It...Feels like afternoon now. I slowly raised my head off the ground and I groaned at bit. My neck is hurting a bit. I felt a twinge of pain. The back of my neck feels...Scratchy as well.

I sighed and I looked around the area while I was still on my stomach. Apparently I'm...Outside the...Hospital building. I'm near some kind of garden of some sort.

I looked at my arm. I saw some kind of...Weird looking tube thing sticking on my arm. And I could see something else strange and it's stuck to the wall. It...It's some kind of machine of some sort. And it's beating. Like a heartbeat. My body is covered up with bandages, I think. Because of the claws marks coming from the bastard of a mayor. I'm just glad he's dead.

I cocked my head at the machine. I have seen some machinery back then, but nothing like this. The humans really did evolve.

I tried to nip at the thing that's on my arm and then I heard a voice, "No wait! Don't!" My eyes went wide when I heard the voice and I turned my head at the direction of it.

I smiled when I saw Wayne coming toward me. He's...Okay!

I lowered my head to his level when he got close to me and I said, "Wayne."

He smiled at me, "Sierra."

I groaned again, "What happened to me? What is this? Where are the others? Where's Amanda? What happened last night?"

He held out his hands, "Slow down big girl. Slow down. You're safe now."

I cocked my head at him, "But what happened to me?"

Wayne sighed, "Well...You were pretty lucky, you almost died last night."

My eyes went wide, "I did?"

Wayne nodded, "You lost a lot of blood. Hell you weren't even breathing. We all really thought we've lost you."

I asked, "So then...How am I still alive? What happened?"

He said, "Well...The human doctors finally came back, but at first they said there was nothing they could do. They put several fingers on your neck, but they couldn't find a pulse on you. They wanted to give up, but I told them not to. There was still time. They said they couldn't help without resuscitating you. So...Neal had to carry you on his back and that's why we're in this spot right now. They hooked you up to that machine over there and you still didn't have a pulse."

I cocked my head at him, "So that's why we're in a different spot? So what is that thing really?"

He answered, "It's a machine that shows your heartbeat. And the thing that's sticking on you that's an IV tube, it's something that'll help you. It's giving you blood."

I asked, "How am I still alive? Tell me."

He sighed, "Well like I said, the doctors couldn't help you without resuscitating you. So...Neal had to roll you on your back and the doctors taught him how to do that. He did chest compressions on you, and your heart wasn't beating at first."

I cocked my head at him, "I don't understand any of this IV stuff and chest compressions."

He waved me off, "Anyways, Neal did that and then a big surprise came and your pulse came back, the machine started to beep. Now here's all the hard work that happened. Neal rolled you on your stomach and the doctors worked on your wounds, especially your neck. They even had a few vets who come here to help you as well. There's bandages on your neck and on your body, you really were lucky."

I asked, "So the humans saved my life?"

He grinned, "Not only them, but Neal and Cody did as well. They...Donated their blood to you and that's another thing why you woke up right now. You were losing a lot of blood and no humans have dragon blood. You have more blood to help you now and it's coming from the IV tube."

I smiled at him, "Donated blood? That's a odd thing to say. They gave me their blood?"

He shrugged, "They had to do it somehow. They had to help you."

I said, "Well...I should thank them then." Then I asked, "How long was I out?"

Wayne said, "Since last night. But I thought you were dead. It was horrible."

I said, "Where are the others?"

Wayne giggled, "Amanda, Neal, and Cody have went to the front of the building, greeting people. I have to say, the humans...Are starting to like you now."

I giggled, "Well I thought they would all attack us. But...Surprisingly they haven't, and it's all thanks to you."

He shrugged, "Your kind has hidden long enough. I think it's by time we all co exist."

I nodded, "Somehow, I agree with you on that one. The humans did change, for the better."

Wayne then had a worried look on his face, "Are...Are you okay?"

I sighed, "Other than feeling some pain, I'm fine."

He said, "I really thought I would lose you. I...I don't want to go through that again. And neither should you."

I nodded, "I know, and I had to protect you from the mayor. It was chance I was willing to take."

Wayne wrapped his arms around my neck hugging himself close to my chest and he started to sob, "Sierra."

I returned the hug by wrapping my paw around him, "Wayne."

He said through sobs, "I thought you were dead! I thought I would never see you again!"

I said, "I have told you before, I was never going anywhere. But...I almost did."

He pulled himself away from me sniffing his nose and he frowned, "What?"

I smiled, "I almost did go somewhere. And...Well it felt like a dream but...I saw my parents, I saw Eric, and...I saw Joanna. Your Joanna. The human Joanna. I even felt them, like I was really there."

His eyes went wide and he asked, "Really?"

I nodded, "They said I had a choice, to be with them or go back home and be with you and the others. I chose you guys."

He titled his head, "You really saw her? You saw Joanna?"

"Yes I did, she was really beautiful."

Wayne giggled, "Gosh Sierra...I don't know what to say."

I said, "She said she was happy that we've met each other. That we've found each other and now we're together. She was so happy that you were happy."

Wayne wiped his eyes and asked, "What else did she say to you?"

I answered, "She said that the only reason why she died, is because we were destined to find each other. That it really wasn't your fault. She said that her death really was a reason why we found each other. That there are some things that happened for a reason."

His eyes went wide, "Really? Why?"

I had a bit of a frown on my face, "Now look Wayne it's not hard to explain and I think you know this. But...Before she died two years ago, she had a vision about us."

He put a hand to his mouth still shocked, "What?"

"She had a vision about us, before she died. She saw how lonely and sad I was, and she saw me with you and I was happy. You see, the reason why she wanted to die is because she wanted you to find me. So I wouldn't be alone anymore. She didn't tell you this before because she was afraid you wouldn't believe her. That's why she died, because she wanted us to be happy together. She died for me."

He looked down at his feet, still registering what I've said.

I said, "Wayne...I was right before. Fate really did have a plan for us. That's why Eric died and that's why Joanna died. Because we were meant to be together. That's why all those things that happened before, they really happened for a reason."

Wayne finally looked at me and smiled, "I..I never told you this Sierra. But I did remember that she said that she saw visions, when she was a little girl she saw them. Some of them were true. She was like a psychic. That's why she didn't have a lot of people talking to her. Because they thought she was a freak. But she wasn't. She...Wanted what's best for me. I was right about her when she died. She really did die for a reason. And...I'm glad that I've found you and it's because of her."

I said, "She knows that you've thanked her. She also said hello as well."

He beamed at me, "Sierra...I'm glad you came back. For me. I don't know what I would do without you."

I smiled at him, "I won't go anywhere now. I will always be with you."

He ran to my chest again and he said, "I love you Sierra."

I said to him, "I love you too."

That's when I saw Amanda, Neal, and Cody came to us with smiles on their faces. Amanda ran to me. Wayne got out of her way and Amanda ran into my chest, hugging me as well, "Mom! You're alright!"

I giggled and wrapped my paw around her, "I'm here daughter. I'm here."

Neal came and nuzzled my face, "I'm glad you're alive."

Cody just stood in front of Amanda and me, "Yeah, we all thought you were gone!"

I laughed, "I'm fine and thank you guys for saving my life. Wayne told me you...Donated blood for me?"

Neal smiled, "Yeah, the humans said that you needed more blood and me and Cody here decided to give some to you."

Cody nodded, "Yeah we had to cut ourselves on one arm and we put our blood in a little bag of some sort. Wayne said they would do the rest."

I smiled at Cody, "You did a good thing, young dragon. I'm proud of you."

Cody waved me off with a paw, "That's what friends do, and Wayne loves you, he's like a brother to me."

I giggled, "So how are the humans here?"

Neal shrugged, "Better than I thought they would be. They're just like Wayne and Amanda, full of curiosity. They just keep poking and prodding us."

Cody beamed, "Yeah! Even the human hatchlings. They looked so cute!"

I laughed, "Sounds like you had a lot of fun."

Neal groaned, "Not really, the human hatchlings kept climbing on my tail. They even sat on it! I don't think it was cool at all."

Amanda pulled herself away from me and giggled at him, "Aw, you know you like hatchlings, big red dude."

Neal smiled and sighed, "Yeah...I do."

Amanda looked at me and said, "I'm happy you're alive. I didn't want to lose you."

I nodded, "Me too."

Then I saw Wayne's parents come out of nowhere and my eyes went wide. I exclaimed, "You guys are here too?! Where did you come from?"

Wayne's father Henry smiled and said, "Turns out you guys came to the town we're staying in right now. Until we get a new house."

Wayne's mother Mary said, "Wayne told us what happened and we're so happy all of you are safe."

I nodded, "It's a long story, but the point is...It's over now. No one can hurt us now. Not even you."

Wayne came and kissed my nose, "That's right. And we're all together now. And nothing will change that."

I smiled at all of them. Seeing that Wayne's right.

It really is over. I'm here with Wayne now. And here with my friends, my daughter.

I'm not going anywhere everyone. I never will. I almost did, but that won't happen again.

I promise.

*****

Four Months Later

I was done visiting mom and dad in town, pretty much on my way back to Sierra.

It has been four months ago since Sierra, Neal, and Cody have came to this town one night and they're already accepted here.

A lot of people have become friends with them and even several dragons come here now. Just to visit this human town.

You see, after Sierra was better from our whole crazy mayor affair we all went back to the dragon city and we all told all the citizens of the dragon city everything. Even Sierra's uncle. Of course everyone was shocked that the humans would accept them. But the new mayor of the dragon city, who is the mayor's son who proudly took his father's place, said that even change had to happen someday. He would really make a good mayor. And now change has really come.

So lately dragons have been flying out of the dragon city and they just come visit this town, just to get used to the whole thing. I know that dragons would feel nervous about this change at first, but time will help them get used to it. Maybe someday dragons would travel even farther away than this.

The humans who live in this town have welcomed dragons with open arms. They don't view them as monsters. They accept them as...Humans. Like they were one of us.

Big, scaly one of us true, but one of us nonetheless.

According to mom and dad, after that night when we came here to save Sierra from dying I knew that the people who live in this town would share the news that dragons really do exist. Soon most of this state started to know that dragons have been coming here now and they exist, then after three months the whole country started to know. Then the whole world when news spread. Even the tourists who come here to this town accept them. So far the humanity doesn't think that my scaly friends are a threat.

That brings a smile to my face. Change has finally come to the dragons. The humans finally accept them for who they are. Not what they look like. We all see them as humans now. Even though maybe not everyone trusts them, but someday they all would. And if they had a problem with it, they can get through me.

I was walking back to Sierra on the sidewalk when a person came around the corner and bumped into me.

I had a concerned look on my face and went to the person, "Sorry about that. I didn't see you."

The person is a man, who appeared to be older than me and he was wearing a cap on his head. The guy waved me off, "No, it's alright kid. I came around the corner and I didn't see you." Then the guy giggled, "Guess I need to slow down on my walking, I might hurt someone."

I giggled with him, "Yeah, I guess your right. I need to do that too." Then I could see the person's face under the cap and I had a curious look, "Hey...Do I know you?"

The guy looked at me and then he removed his cap and smiled at me, "Maybe...I think I need to wear my sunglasses. This hat is not concealing my identity." He giggled again.

I pointed at him "I do know you, don't I?"

The guy shrugged, "Well how do you know me?"

I stared at him. Narrowing my eyes. Finally something clicked my brain. Oh my god, I do know him!

He's...He's...

I laughed and I said out loud, "You're Steve Perry! The lead singer from Journey, years ago!"

The guy who is Steve Perry, put a finger to his mouth and shushed me. He giggled after that, "Yes kid. That's me. The Voice. Well WAS the Voice of Journey, but yep that's me. Apparently I bumped into a fan."

I smiled at him, "Yeah, apparently you did. I'm such a big fan of yours. Hell for a long time, I have been listening to Journey on my cd player and even on the radio. I have to say, you really are the best singer of all time."

Steve laughed, "Well I wouldn't say that, but thank you. Every singer has their own talent. And I would never say that I'm better than everyone. We're all equal."

I stared at him and said, "You look a little different these days. You don't have long hair like you used to."

He laughed again and shook his head, "Nope kiddo, I don't. I'm not as young as I used to be. I mean, I don't sing much these days either."

I giggled, "So where have you been all these years? I mean, I remember that you and your bandmates were honored at the Hollywood Walk of Fame. I think that was in the year 2005."

Steve nodded, "Yeah that's right, I still love those guys. Even though they have replaced me with someone else, but I still love them. Even Jonathan Cain and Neal Schon. We all have been through a lot together."

I shrugged, "So where have you been all this time? Just laying low? Living life?"

Steve shrugged, "Something like that. Like I said before, I don't sing much like I used to. My voice is not like it was before. But don't you watch baseball? I mean, I go see the San Francisco Giants a lot. I'm a big fan of the team. Maybe you saw me on TV."

I shook my head, "I don't watch baseball. But I have heard you're a fan of the San Francisco Giants."

Steve nodded, "Yes."

I smiled, "I can't believe I've met the great Steve Perry. You're like a god to me, no doubt about it."

Steve smiled, "Well still thank you kid. I'm glad you liked the music me and Journey created. It always does warm my heart that people these days still listen to us. I thought everyone would listen to the band's new lead singer Arnel Pineda?"

I shrugged and said, "Arnel's okay."

Steve nodded, "I like the guy. I haven't met him yet, but damn he sounds pretty good."

I grinned, "Not as great as you." Then I frowned, "So what are you doing in this town anyway?"

Steve said, "Well...A fan reached out to me and this fan has cancer and it's killing him. So he wanted to meet me in person, since he's a big fan of Journey. You see he's fifteen years old."

I had a sad look on m face, "Oh...How did it go?"

Steve sighed, "It's always sad to see people  who are sick like that. But it went great. He really looks like a good kid." Then Steve took a step toward me and said, "And that's not the only thing why I came here."

I had a curious look on my face, "What?"

He giggled, "Because of...Dragons."

I smiled at him, "You've heard about dragons coming here?"

Steve nodded, "Yeah...I mean...I remember dreaming something about dragons when I was a little boy. But I never knew they would actually exist."

I nodded, "Trust me old man, they do."

He laughed, "Old man?! Well one day, you'll be old too, pal!"

I laughed as well and said, "So you came here because of a fan and dragons?"

Steve said, "Yep. I mean...I've seen them on TV about a few months ago. I think everyone has." Then he frowned at me, "Hang on...Do I know YOU from somewhere?"

I grinned at him, "Maybe you do."

Steve's face went wide and he grinned, '"Wow, I do know you! You're that kid who was on TV a few months ago! You, those three dragons and that girl named...."

I said, "Amanda Fuller."

He snapped his finger and said, "Right! Amanda. And your name is?'

I answered, "Wayne Madigan."

Steve smiled, "That's right! Wayne Madigan! I remember that this blue dragon was lying on the ground and there was this big red dragon and a small green dragon who were just standing around watching the crowd and you and that girl were on top of a car together. I even know that dragons talk! And all of you guys were singing. You were singing Don't Stop Believin' and that's awesome!"

My eyes went wide. Oh man, I guess whoever was video recording us were recording us singing. Probably posted it on the internet. That's...Awesome! And the great Steve Perry has seen it.

Steve said, "I have to say...You and your friends are good at singing as well. And I never knew that dragons could sing!"

I smiled at him, "Thank you man. I was the one who taught them how to sing."

Steve had a curious look on his face, "Really? You taught them how to sing? Hmmm. But I have to ask. Since you've brought them here on that night, where did they come from? How's this possible?"

I said, "Well they came from a city of their own. They live in a city in the mountains untouched by our kind. Dragons had built that city WAY before we were born. It's a long story."

Steve shrugged, "How did you meet them?"

I sighed and smiled, "It's a long story as well."

He waved me off, "Nah, it's alright. I just want to meet one dragon here or maybe two. Then I'm gonna head back to California to head home."

I said, "Well...There aren't a lot of dragons here today. But I'm meeting one here in town right now. She's my best friend." No way I'm telling him that I'm her boyfriend. I don't want Steve to know about that.

Steve smiled and nodded, "Sure! That would be great!"

I nodded, "Alright come on." Then me and him started to walk on the sidewalk together. Me taking him to Sierra.

 Oh man...I've told Sierra about Steve Perry a lot and now she gets to meet him. The guy who really inspired me to sing. Also Joanna as well.

Joanna...If you were alive, you would be so happy. You've listened to Journey a lot before you died. Steve would've liked you as well.

Me and Steve went to the park in the middle of town and I could see that Sierra is talking to a woman  and a man. I've seen those two before, they live in this town. And they were in the crowd that night when they've revealed themselves. When me and my friends were trying to save Sierra.

Sierra saw me and Steve coming and she told them to leave. The two people left and so now it's me and Steve alone with her.

Steve's face went wide at the sight of her. He could hardly believe his eyes.

Sierra smiled at me and Steve. "Hi Wayne, I was wondering what took you so long. You've visited your mom and dad for a long time."

I shrugged, "Just caught up on something. Nothing much anyways."

Sierra cocked her head at Steve, "Who's your friend? I already talked to FIVE humans already and I'm already feeling tired. I never knew I would have this kind of attention."

I shot a glare at her and crossed my arms, "Sierra, it has already been four months already and here you are still complaining."

Sierra rolled her yes, "Whatever human. I already had FIVE people touch me, what more do you want from me?"

Steve asked me, "Is your friend always this grouchy?"

I giggled, "Pretty much."

Sierra lowered her head to Steve's level, Steve backed up a bit, "So Wayne...Who's your friend? I never met him before."

I smiled at her and said, "Sierra...This is Steve Perry. The guy I've told you about months ago."

Her face went wide and she raised her head, "Wait a minute? You're Steve Perry? The...Singer for Journey?"

Steve's face went wide and he looked at me, "You've told her about me?"

I nodded, "Well lets just say I've sang her a few songs that came from your band, especially Open Arms. I've told her about you as well."

Sierra smiled down at him, "Yes and even Oh Sherrie as well."

Steve smiled, "Wow kid, you know Oh Sherrie as well?"

I giggled, "Told you I was a fan."

Sierra said, "Wayne really is good at that."

Steve smiled at her, "Well I'm glad this kid did sing to you. You don't look grouchy when he does it."

Sierra rolled her eyes at him, "So what? I thought you were just a noble king when he told me about you."

I glared at her, "Sierra...Behave yourself."

Sierra had an apologetic look, "Sorry."

Steve shook his head, "Don't be sorry. I just want to see a dragon for the first time. I've heard a lot about your kind here."

Sierra grinned at him, "You really don't think that I'm...A monster?"

Steve shook his head again, "No I don't actually. You look...Magnificent! I never met a dragon before. Then again I never thought dragons existed as well."

Sierra nodded, "Glad you're not afraid of me."

Steve got closer to her with a hand out, "Can I touch you? I promise you it's only just this once."

Sierra nodded slowly, "Sure go ahead." Then she lowered her head to his level, "Get it over with."

Steve then slowly touched her nose, rubbing it. Then he touched her face. When he was done with her head, he touched her body. He even touched one of her wings. Pretty much amazed in shock and awe. He finally backed away from her and went back to me.

He smiled at me, "Wow, your friend is really amazing. I never touched a dragon before!" Then he looked at her, "Thank you...Sierra."

Sierra bowed her head, "You're welcome." Then she giggled, "Your majesty."

Steve laughed and then he looked at me, "Well kid I need to get going. What are you going to do?"

I said, "I'm going with Sierra. Back to her home."

Steve's face went wide, "You're going to the dragon city?"

I nodded, "Yep. I'm going home with her."

Steve said, "Well I wish I went to this dragon city with you guys.. But I got stuff to do. I have a life of my own."

Sierra shrugged, "You do what you want. I won't stop you."

Steve laughed, "You better not stop me. Or else I'll slap you nose!"

Sierra groaned, "Great, now you sound just like Wayne." Then all three of us laughed.

I said to him and waved, "Well it's nice to meet you. I hope you and your band will get inducted in the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame."

Steve beamed at me, "Yeah, me too. Anyways you and Sierra take care of each other." And with that he waved at me and Sierra and walked away from us.

Sierra looked down at me and muttered, "You know I bet you didn't tell him about the gem in the Braveheart."

I looked at her and shrugged, "It would've been hard to explain it to him. A magic gem I guess it would have sufficed. But he had to go back home anyway."

Sierra said, "Well I guess it's alright. Besides, I bet he doesn't sing as great as you."

I laughed and shook my head, "I'm sure he does sing better than me."

Sierra giggled and muttered, "Well maybe I should date him then. Since he's a better singer than you."

I shot at her, "Well you two would make a good couple. After all you're both old. He's old, you're old. Perfect match to me."

Sierra glared at me, "Quit calling me old!" Then I laughed and she did as well. Then she lowered her head to my level and I kissed her nose.

I pulled back and asked, "You ready to go home?

Sierra nodded, "Yes. And don't worry, I'll see your mom and dad later."

She lowered her body to the ground and I got on her back. Then I saw the scars that are on the back of her neck. The scars that have been left by the former mayor of the dragon city. I still remember that night. I'm glad she has been better months ago.

Sierra then started to flap her wings and I wrapped my arms around her neck and I tucked in my legs. Then we both flown away from town, flying high into the air. Heading back to the dragon city.

*****

Me, Sierra, Amanda, Neal, and Cody were all in the Braveheart watching a performance going on in the restaurant. A human named Michael is performing on there. And he's doing a good job. He was done singing the song and all of us cheered. The gem that's on stage changed color when he was done. It changed from blue to red. Michael then got off the stage and he went back to his dragon friends.

Lately for several days, the dragons who visit the human town have taken several humans so they could see the dragon city. So far I've seen about twenty humans wondering in the dragon city. And I think to myself, wow first the humans accepted the dragons in their world, now the dragons accept them in THEIR world.

I've seen a few humans that I don't know even sing on stage just I like did before. Hesitant at first, but then they actually can handle it. They just have to use their thoughts and then the gem plays the music from their head. Different songs that the dragons never heard of. Different kinds of human music that they like to hear.

They can hear country music, rock music, whatever you would think of. Because different humans come here to sing. Which it's great! At least I wouldn't be the only one who does it.

One time in here I even saw a human and a dragon singing together. Guess that human taught the dragon how to sing. It was incredible!

Neal smiled at me and Sierra and said, "That guy did good up there."

I nodded in agreement, "Yeah and I never thought he would sing Jason Aldean up there."

He cocked his head at me, "Who?"

I waved him off, "Forget it."

Cody's girlfriend who's the purple dragoness smiled at him and said, "Hey listen, I'm going to head home now, ok?" Then she gave him a peck on the cheek.

Cody nodded and said, "Ok, later." Then she said goodbye to all of us and left the restaurant.

Amanda smiled and said, "Wow Wayne...This is a third performance I've seen three days in a row! This really is incredible! Humans are even coming here now. At least me and you are not going to be the only humans wondering around in the dragon city."

I giggled "Yeah, at least we would have our own kind to talk to every now and then."

Joanna and Sierra's uncle came and sat down on their haunches near us. Sierra's uncle smiled and said, "Hey guys."

Sierra grinned at her uncle, "Hello uncle, did you like that human singing?"

He nodded, "Oh yes. This is the third human I've seen on that stage."

Joanna smiled at us and said, "You know everyone, if it wasn't for your appearance at that human town four months ago, none of this wouldn't be happening. I'm having more attention than ever! This old dragoness really likes it!"

Amanda laughed and said, "Thanks for the appreciation, Joanna! Glad you like it."

Cody shrugged, "Guess it was just fate that brought you all that attention."

Joanna nodded in agreement, "I think you're right hon."

Sierra's uncle then nuzzled Joanna and said, "Hey you ready to go home for the night?"

Joanna nipped at his neck, "No, not yet. I'm going to close down the restaurant for the night. I'll be home with you later." Then she smiled at him and then they both shared a kiss.

I smiled at them together. You see, Joanna and Sierra's uncle have actually been together since two months ago. It turns out they had a crush on each other since for a long time and since two months ago, they revealed how they felt for each other and now they're together.

Which that makes Sierra happy for her uncle. She thought he could use some company, since Sierra's not a hatchling anymore. And as for Joanna, well she told me she never met the right drake for her to be with. She always ended up with the wrong one. I remember she told me before that's why she doesn't have hatchlings  But I think those two are perfect for each other.

Joanna even made Sierra's uncle co owner of the restaurant. Which that means their relationship is working. Well I think anyways. They seem chummy together.

Sierra's uncle left and he waved his paw goodnight and he left. Joanna bowed her head and said, "Goodnight everyone." Then she whirled around and left.

Neal smiled after Joanna left, "They make a good couple."

Sierra smiled and nodded, "Yes they do. I'm happy for my uncle."

I said, "I'm happy for Joanna. She never had met the right guy and I think now she has."

Sierra giggled, "I didn't even know my uncle and Joanna liked each other since they were teenagers. I guess they just weren't sure how much, until two months ago. They really are cute."

Neal muttered, "Maybe she'll get a hatchling for the first time in her life."

Sierra shot a glare at him, "You know what? Why don't you get one? You show off." 

Neal playfully grinned at her, "Why don't you? Old lady."

Sierra snorted, "Whatever. I don't care if you call me old."

Neal laughed, "Yes you do! You're angry at me."

Sierra rolled her eyes, "Like I said, don't care."

Amanda laughed and said to both of them, "Oh quit bickering you two!" Then all of us laughed.

After that we all left the restaurant and now we're all standing at the entrance outside. The sun's starting to set.

Cody smiled and said, "Well I better get home to my parents. I have classes tomorrow. See you all later!" Then he bounded away on the streets.

Amanda rubbed Neal's leg affectionately and said, "Well I'm tired big guy. You ready to go to bed?"

Neal lowered his head to her level and licked her cheek, "Of course. Don't want my beautiful female get so worn out, that she'll fall face down to the ground. Then I'll have to carry you!"

Amanda giggled and kissed his nose, "At least, I have a big strong man to carry me home."

They stared into each others eyes, then she planted a quick peck on his lips. Finally Neal raised his head and looked at me and Sierra, "Well guys, goodnight. Me and Amanda have plans at home."

I smiled and asked, "Oh really? What are you guys going to do?"

Amanda giggled, "Nothing."

Neal had a devious grin and whispered, "We're going to mate tonight."

Sierra laughed and Amanda shot a glare at Neal. She put her hands to her hips, "Very funny, you big red scaly pervert!" Then me and Neal joined in Sierra's laugh. Then she slapped his leg.

Sierra still laughed and said, "I was wondering when THAT will happen."

Amanda shot a glare at Sierra, "Mother, don't encourage him!" Then she has softened her look and grinned, "Actually me and the big guy here are going to make out and go to bed. Then I'm going to work with Wayne tomorrow. So no distractions are needed! I need my beauty sleep."

I giggled when she said that. What she meant when she said going to work is that Amanda did say she wanted to have a human education business for dragons to learn about us. To learn about our history. To learn how much we have changed. Me and Amanda have been holding that business since three months ago. And it's great! Sierra and Neal even help us out with the teachings as well.

The dragons learned a lot from us and I believe that's one of the factors why dragons have accepted human kind. Why they're not afraid to show up at that town. To bring humans to this city. Amanda really did make a good idea, and it's paying off!

We even make good pay and we even buy our own food now. Not let someone else in this city buy food for us.

I waved goodnight at Neal and Amanda, "Well goodnight guys, me and Sierra will see you tomorrow."

Amanda waved goodnight as well and she grinned at Neal and he grinned right back. They both whirled around and walked back home.

Me and Sierra smiled at each other and we both headed back home as well.

*****

I was sitting on the wall that surrounds the dragon city, looking at the lands outside the city. It's nighttime now. I left Sierra alone and I just walked all the way up here. Just to get some energy out of my system. Honestly I had a lot of things on my mind. For some reason I've been having them lately.

A lot of those thoughts were about Sierra and me. I sighed. Worried thoughts tugging at my heart.

Then I heard a voice near me, "Everything alright my little Wayne?" My eyes went wide and I looked to my left and Sierra's head was close to me.

I shot a glare at her and muttered, "Good god big girl, don't you make any noise?"

Sierra giggled, "Sorry if I'm quiet, you know me. It's a habit."

I groaned, "Well your habit just scares me!" Then we both giggled.

Sierra then laid down on her stomach beside me and looked out at the land outside the city as well. She muttered, "Might as well join you since you're up here alone." Then she looked at me, frowning, "Why are you up here anyway?"

I shrugged, "Just couldn't sleep tonight. So I just walked out of the motel and came up here." Then I looked at her playfully frowning, "Why are you here?"

Sierra giggled, "Because you just got up from bed while I was sleeping and I've felt you move and I followed you. I just stood back there watching you and I decided to just come closer to you. So here we are now."

We both sat down on the wall together in silence. Sierra broke the silence saying, "The night up here is beautiful. Been a long while since I've seen a night like this on top of the wall. Since you've sing the human song, 'Oh Sherrie' to me."

I giggled at the memories, "I'll admit, I never forgot that night. That song was meant to cheer you up and it did."

Sierra said, "Well I think all of your songs would cheer me up, 'Oh Sherrie', 'Lights', 'Open Arms', 'Separate Ways', and 'Don't Stop Beleivin'. Your singing would always cheer me up."

I smiled at all the songs she mentioned. God those were the memories. And Sierra was like my number one fan.

Feels good when I think about it.

Sierra said, "Is there something you want to talk about? Anything on your mind tonight?"

I said, "Well...I'm so happy for everything that's been happening lately. I get to live in this city, the humans accept your kind with open arms, the dragons are learning everything about us, just like you are and it's all thanks to Amanda and me. I get to see mom and dad every once in a while. Dragons and humans co exist now and that's just the beginning for a new age."

I sighed and smiled, "I got to meet my hero yesterday and his name's Steve Perry. And one last thing...I haven't thought about Joanna in a while. Until yesterday of course. I guess, I really did let go of her death after all."

Sierra hummed happily, "Yes and you've finally got your closure from her death. And I got my closure from Eric's death. It wasn't really my fault after all that he died. It was that crazy mayor's fault. He wanted revenge for his mate's death and he couldn't let it go. I was never a monster after all, it was him who was the monster. And I don't feel guilty about killing the king and his knights anymore. I...Really feel good now. I haven't thought about them in a while either."

She went on, "Even when I was alone for years, fate and life brought me back here. I'm reunited with the only family I had left and it's my uncle. I still have my best friend from hatchling days. I have a daughter now and it's Amanda. And now." She looked at me, "Now I have someone else to love."

I smiled at her and then I looked out at the lands again, "Life really is good for us." Then I had a glum look on my face.

Sierra noticed it and had a concerned look on her face, "What is it?"

I shook my head, "Nothing."

Sierra narrowed her eyes at me, "Wayne don't play dumb. Just tell me, please."

I sighed, "Well...My brain has been screwing with my head lately. I have been having these thoughts lately and they're just driving me crazy. Hell that's why I just left the motel tonight. Because these thoughts keep waking me up."

She cocked her head at me, "What thoughts?"

I looked at her and said, "They're about me and you."

Her face went wide with concern and said, "Wayne...Are you...Having second thoughts about me?"

I just shrugged, "Sort of."

She had a serious look and said, "Now Wayne just remember. Don't let what everyone think about us get to you. You shouldn't care about-"

I shook my head and waved her off, "That's not what I'm thinking at all. It's not that...It's something else."

"What?"

I took a deep breath and muttered, "I don't want you hurt...Because of me."

She frowned, "What are you talking about? I thought you were happy."

I sighed, "I am, but for how long?"

She said, "Huh?"

I said, "Sierra....You said that dragons live longer lives than we do. That's what I'm getting at. I mean...I'm wondering if we'll live together forever. We probably won't and that's the problem. I just don't  want my death to hurt you."

Sierra put a paw to her chest, "Well I'm still alive and my kind are supposed to live for a few hundred years. But a lot of us are still alive and it's been over a thousand years. It's like you said before Wayne, it's because of that invisibility cloak that surrounds the city that makes us age slower. You're staying in this city now, so maybe the magic will work on you."

I said, "But what if it doesn't work on humans? What if I won't age slower like your kind does? What if it only works on dragons? Not humans? Do you get what I'm telling you?"

I sighed unhappily, "I don't want my death to hurt you. I want to protect you."

Sierra shook her head and grinned, "You know something Wayne? I don't care."

My eyes went wide, "What?"

She went on, "Eric went through the same thing you did. Doubting himself that we'll ever be together forever. He was like you. He was afraid he would hurt me by his death. That when he's old he would fade away. But I've told him that I don't care. As long as we both are together until one of us is old, I don't care."

I pleaded, "But-"

She cut me off, "Wayne I know that his death bothered me for years, but it was only because he didn't die when he was old, he died when he was young and it wasn't fair. I wanted him to die when he was old, not young. And you won't die when you're young. You'll die when you're old."

"But Sierra."

She got her head close to mine, "Wayne...Even if I outlive you, or if you outlive ME, it doesn't matter. I want both of us to live a long life until we both die of old age."

I asked, "But what if you outlive me? What if you see me grow old and die before you? You still will live a longer life without me. How will you live without me?"

She said, "So what? We all grow old and die one day, I don't care. I would share the rest of the days with you and...I believe that you will live longer like I do. Because you live in this city now. I just believe."

I just stared at her and she said, "Don't stop believin' Wayne. You just have to believe in yourself. Believe that you'll live longer like I do. Maybe you will, maybe you won't, but I know you will. Because I believe."

Finally I smiled at her and I nodded, "You're right. I shouldn't worry about my age and who will outlive who. The point is we both live and grow old. There's no changing that."

She nodded, "Exactly and after I talked to Eric about that, he stopped worrying about it as well. And when you die one day from being too old, it really was nice being with you. And when I die from being too old before you, then you would say the same thing. Don't let the fear of growing too old get to you, just accept it. Because I already have. And when I die old before you, go on with your life. And I won't let your death from being old get to me. I'll go on with my life." She put a paw to her chest, "I promise. I promise on Eric's grave."

I got up on my feet and I face her. I walked to her and I put both hands to her face. I leaned my head forward and planted my lips to her mouth. She kissed back, adjusting her mouth to mine.

We pulled away from each other and I giggled. I let go of her face and backed away. I smiled at her,"'I love you Sierra."

She smiled back, "I love you too, Wayne."

Then I sighed, "Well that was easy than I thought. I guess I won't let it bother me anymore."

She nodded, "Good, that's all I needed to hear."

I giggled, "Well I actually have an idea for a date for us."

She cocked her head, "What?"

I said, "Well...At the human town, according to my mother and father there's a drive thru theater and they're showing a movie there."

Sierra frowned, "You know I still don't understand the concept of a 'movie'."

I said, "Well I did tell you about what a movie is. It's about humans who act and they play movies with us in them. There are thousands of them."

Sierra shook her head, "Still don't get it Wayne."

I laughed, "Well you will when me and you are watching one together. I think they'll play it in three weeks actually. I think the movie is, 'Casablanca'. Trust me you'll like it. It's a good movie."

She narrowed her eyes at me, "I never forgotten that you've told me that humans have gave dragons a bad name by making my kind portray us as monsters in them. Is that what you've said? I have to say...I hope I don't see that."

I narrowed my eyes back at her, "That's because the people didn't know about your kind in real life. Look just go with me, you stubborn old lady."

She groaned, "Alright fine, I'll go." Then she laughed.

I kissed her nose in response, "Good and you won't regret it." We both stared at each other lovingly and then we both looked out at the lands outside the city. The moonlight shining on them.

I'm not afraid to die old anymore. I know you'll still be happy when I die old.

As long as you're happy, then I'm happy. After all I still have a long life ahead of me. I'm twenty years old!

But maybe I will age slower in this city. The magic is probably affecting me now and I don't know it. Time will tell.

And you know Sierra...I stopped believing in myself two years ago. When Joanna died.

I didn't know what I wanted anymore when she died, I felt depressed, guilty, and alone. But now I'm not anymore and it's thanks to you.

You made me believe in myself again. And I've made you believe in yourself. We both feel happy together, just like we were meant to be.

We both have a new purpose in life now.

Don't Stop Believin'. We won't.

I know we won't. We will never stop believing in ourselves. Until we grow old and die, we won't stop believing.

No matter what.

Don't Stop Believin'. Thank you Joanna.

THE END