Dragonscales

Chapter 33|The Harvest Festival

A rainbow of elves swirled around me, moving in time with the music. My heart beat with the drums, vibrating through my chest. It was a day of merriment. Tourmaline watched with sparkling violet eyes from the sidelines. Elfings climbed over her inky scales, careful not to hurt her.

My hands intertwined with Loki's as the song finished. I lead him over to the refreshment table, where we could take a small break in dancing. Floating Jack o' lanterns dotted the sky, casting flickering light on our faces. I spooned apple cider into a crystal goblet. Elves don't miss an opportunity to show off our finest things. We clinked our glasses together, a cheers for how life was looking better, that we had found each other, and to the future and whatever it may bring.

My cheerful eyes scanned the town square. Fandral was wooing a lady elf draped over him. Volstagg and Thor were seeing how much mead they chug, Hogun watching. Snowdrop was sitting with Peter and Marigold. Mirth shining in their eyes and grins. I set down my crystal goblet. Loki and I fell in line with Amare and Ave. The newlyweds were twirling in perfect sync. 

I wrapped my arms around Loki's shoulders while he placed his hands on my waist as the tempo of music slowed. He grinned as he stole a kiss. I ran my fingers through his long ebony hair as we spinned along the grass. Moonlight filtered through the treetops, highlighting Loki's handsome face. The music faded to a stop, the lute plucking an ending.

Loki put his arm around my waist as Tony sauntered over. He was taking advantage of the break in music to speak. "Elves sure know how to throw a party. Of course, they don't beat mine." He both complimented and bragged. "Thank you, I think." I accepted. The band started back up, which was Tony's cue to try and haggle another mug of mead from the barkeep. My ears twitched as Tony tried and failed. "Listen human, you've had enough alcohol for tonight. I don't care that you have a high tolerance. They are elflings around so I can't have adults getting drunk." Tony hung his head in defeat after he realized that his human money had no power here.

I laughed at his antics and went to get him a glass of water. He did not lead a healthy lifestyle. After making sure Tony actually drank some water for once, I returned to Loki. My boyfriend spun me in time with the rhythm. Loki noticed my discomfort. "Are you alright darling?" He dipped me, concern etched in his features. "Yes, but I think I'm all partied out. I could show you the Royal Gardens if you want?" "As you wish, my flower."

We slipped out of the town square and festivities and into palace. Our hands were intertwined as I lead him to the Royal Gardens. The palace was empty, devoid of the usual hustle and bustle of different royal servants or other workers. The entrance to the garden was a wooden arch with vinign flowers braiding into it. I frowned sheepishly. "Its too late in the year for anything grow. I gave him the grand tour, stopping a few times to share a childhood story.

The pale light of the night sky painted our faces in elegance. "I love you, Thistle." "I love you too, Loki."

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I can't believe the one year anniversary of this book is in two days! Thank you all so much for sticking with me on this journey.

Author-chan <3