The old man, trembling, managed to plug in the computer. It came to life, and Jamilla felt the familiar sensation of mental control over the Chronivac and its awesome power.
A scan of Mr. Ferguson, who had now fainted, revealed numerous health problems including arterial congestion and a growing cancer. Jamilla's vestigial conscience was warmed by the fact that by healing him, he would actually be doing the old man a favor in making him into a glorious, healthy she-dragon.
Mr. Ferguson remained unconscious as his body lengthened, grew scales, wings and claws, and internally changed from an old, dying human male to a young and healthy dragoness. When she returned to consciousness the overwhelming sensation was one of absence, as the pain which had been a constant companion for over a decade had disappeared. The long-forgotten energy of youth surged through her body.
"You're that dragon they were talking about" she spoke, addressing the other dragon in what was becoming a very crowded store. "Wait. Jamilla? Is that you? You finally turned yourself into a dragon?"
"Uh, yeah" responded Jamilla, struck by shyness for the first time since becoming a dragon. The iridiscent, golden beauty of the new she-dragon was nearly overwhelming. "I wanted you to uh, be my mate--you know, if that's OK with you."
"Your mate? What? Wait, am I male or female?"
"Uh, female."
"I don't know about this--you could have asked, Jamilla. I thought we were friends."
For the first time in a long time, Jamilla felt shame.