I wasn't sure how long we danced before the sound of drums filled my ears. As if on cue everyone stopped dancing and took a step back, forming an aisle.
I looked up at Tori, unnerved at the sudden change in behavior. What's going on? He smiled. "You'll see."
I raised my eyebrows at that. What did he know that I didn't?
He didn't reply. Only wrapped his arms around me from behind and pulled me into him. It was getting cold so I was grateful for his warmth.
At that moment the drums became louder. Men with red paint on their bodies, yellow shorts, and grass ankle bracelets bolted down the aisle. But that's not what caught my attention. It was the fire that came from their mouths. I watched in awe.
"Do you like it?" He whispered into my ear.
All I could do was nod. Never in my life had I seen a fire eater. Sure, I'd seen my share in magazines and television. But this was the real thing. I found myself captivated as they flipped, twisted, and danced to the constant sound of the drums.
"I'm glad you like it." He told me. "This is your engagement present." He placed a kiss on my cheek and I melted instantly. What would I do without him?
I watched entranced as the flame throwers danced in unison. Some twirled bo sticks with fire on both ends, while others threw smaller sticks into the air only to catch them. I followed their every move with my eyes. I was sad when they're act ended, but I was happy with the memory. I clapped.
"Good evening family!" A voiced bellowed from above. We turned our attention upward. Elder Kris stood at the top of a hill, two empty chairs were behind him, and two torches were lit on either side.
"Good evening!" We replied.
"I hope you are all having a good time. I want to remind you why we have all gathered here today." There was silence as we listened. "Our princess has been returned to us. Safe and sound." He gestured to me. "Please."
Reluctantly I left Tori's warmth and made my way up the stairs. I was completely aware of every single pair of eyes on me as I walked. I'd been in front of hundreds of people before. The LaPlace Pack was huge. But this clan was three times that. It made me nervous.
"The Princess," the elder continued as I finally arrived at the top. "Has been lost for over fourteen years. I admit that some of us lost hope that we would ever see her again, but I know one person who didn't. Tori Warren." He pointed to Tori and I couldn't help but smile. "Tori please join me." I watched as Tori was there. And then he wasn't.
"Tori," Elder Kris continued as he reappeared. "Is Tomari's guardian and savior. He is the one who brought her back to us. For that I am forever grateful." He said with a grin. "But there is something I must confess. This night is not only special because our princess has returned. This is also in celebration of her soon to be marriage." He gestured for us to sit.
"Fourteen years these two were apart
Fate allowed them to be together again. In two weeks from now, Tori Warren and Princess Tomari will have officially tied the knot. Let us all wish them well." He held up his glass. We did the same. "To eternal love!"
"And to love eternal!" Everyone cheered.
We drank.
-
Tori
"Tori, give me a piggy back ride." She slurred. "I don't think I can walk." Obediently, I bent down. She lowered herself on my back and I lifted with a quick jerk. She screamed. "Woah! We're so high up."
