When I next woke up, night had fallen outside. My parents were gone and only Kumiko remained in my room. She turned quickly at the sound of sheets pulled back.
I felt much stronger. Some of my muscles still arched, but I felt better.
"Chihiro"
My friend still wore that worried expression, but... there was something else. Whatever it was, it bothered her.
"Chihiro, there's something I want to ask you."
"I'm fine, if you're wondering" I managed a small smile of reassurance. But I knew it wasn't that.
"Chihiro..." My friend paused, biting her lower lip. Her eyes dart to and fro like a frightened animal.
"Kumiko... what's wrong?" I freeze, the starting of dread filling my stomach.
Kumiko hesitated. Then she lifted her head and looked at me straight in the eye.
"Did something happen down there in the lake?"
I was flabbergasted. Kumiko just asked a silly question. How was I suppose to know what happened down there? I should be the one asking that!
"Kumiko... what the---"
"There was a dragon."
My blood froze in my veins. A cold shiver ran through my whole body, causing goose bumps over my skin. I stared at her; her eyes did not meet mine.
(Do you think we'll meet again?)
(We will.)
(You promise?)
(I promise.)
Time stopped as I stared at Kumiko. A motorbike rolled by and a baby cried. I barely heard all those things.
My hand shot out to grip Kumiko's shoulder.
"Kumiko..." I croaked out, my voice suddenly coarse.
"You saw... a Dragon? Beside me?" my eyes were large, serious.
Kumiko lifted her eyes.
"Yes." She whispered.
(I promise.)
(Haku!!!)
I rushed out of my bed, realizing that I was in my pajamas. I opened my closet, took out my coat and rushed out of my room, ignoring my friend's calls.
I was down the stairs ad out of the door before my parents could react. I run down the left lane and turned right. The park was not far from my home and soon I saw the familiar gate in sight.
The gate was still open and I rushed past it. The guard jumped from his chair and started to run after me. I shouted back at him that I had forgotten something and wouldn't be too long. He stopped in his chase.
I ran on the path and reached the lake. Luckily there were lamps along the road to guide my way. The light reflected unto the still lake, shimmering softly.
I stopped and gasped for air. It was silent there; not a sound except my harsh breathing.
"Haku!" My voice wavered, and I tried again.
"Haku! Haku!! Can you hear me?!"
Silence.
I tried again. Nothing. Not even a leaf stirred.
"HAKU! HAKU!!" I was desperate now.
"NIGIHAYAMI KOHAKUNUSHI!!" I screamed.
