Derek's mother arrived quickly and hugged her son. As they were leaving, Derek asked, "Officer? Is the house okay?" The policeman nodded. "Son, we know it was an accident. Do you know if everyone made it out?" asked the man. The expression on Derek's face went grim. "Erica Knowells. She was so small...Everyone must of knocked her down trying to get out! She was burned by the fire." In the car, Derek said nothing. All he did was stare out the window. His mother patted his back. "Your aunt Skye is at the house. She's been wanting to talk to you" she said.

When they got home, Derek ran up to his room and closed the door. He thought only about Erica, and started to cry. Aunt Skye came in quietly and sat next to him. "Talk to me. What happened at the party?" she said calmly, soothing him. Derek explained everything. "Ahh, I see. The men...Did they look unusual?" asked Skye. Derek nodded, "Yeah. They weren't wearing normal clothes...More like robes." Aunt Skye looked worried, and pulled out a ring. "You forgot this. I told you to keep it on at all times! It's a protection amulet" she exclaimed. The ring was large, and it
was a dragon. Derek sighed and put it on.

The next morning, Derek walked slowly down the stairs. In the kitchen, Aunt Skye was talking to his mom. She turned and her long blonde hair was glowing brightly. Skye motioned for him to come into the kitchen. After he got his orange juice, he sat down. "Your aunt wants you to go on vacation with her, Der. Just her and you, to spend time!" said his mom cheerfully. "To Colorado, I need to find an old friend and I thought we could have some fun while we're there!" responded Skye. Derek looked suprised. "Colorado? But school starts in two weeks!" Skye sighed. "We would leave today at noon. But only if you're up to it!" she told him. Derek nodded and packed his things quickly.

As they were about to leave, Derek had forgotten something. He ran into his room and halted. A man, in robes, stood there...