I stood slowly, taking in the sight of their beaming faces, and gave a small bow.
A tear slipped down my cheek, which I quickly wiped away. To share my music with these beings, who were themselves made of song, and to receive their praise, was an honor beyond words.
The applause faded like that single sweet note, and I walked to meet Hylos and his inner circle one last time.
“Elowyn, that was outstanding!” Morvyn exclaimed.
“That was amazing!” Nixie chirped at Raylik’s side.
“Yes, you are talented,” Raylik said.
“Thank you, the instrument is perfect. So well made,” I answered, still in disbelief at its repair. It was a shame to leave it behind.
“I guess we can thank Tiny Toes for something,” Morvyn sneered.
“You played wonderfully,” Lumina said with tears in her eyes.
“My liege, you’re needed in your study,” An out-of-breath guard said to Hylos, eyes wide.
“I’m coming.” He looked back at me, softening for one moment. “It truly was wonderful, Elowyn. Thank you for sharing your song with us.” Then he stormed off and Raylik followed.
“Has anyone seen Arlo?” I exclaimed, our plan racing back to me.
“No, I haven’t,” Nixie said as Lumina still watched me in wonder.
“I saw him draining a few cups.” Morvyn smirked. “He’s getting into the Hydroxia spirit at last.”
“Oh no, I should go look for him,” I said.
“Do you need help?” Nixie asked.
“No, no. It’s fine,” I said, looking at her face, tracing her sharp features, trying to remember them. This would be the last time I’d ever see her.
“Let her go, Nix, I’m sure she just wants to make boring human love with Tiny Toes. Unless you’re trying to join them,” Morvyn joked.
“You’re so obnoxious.” She swatted him and let out a laugh that warmed my soul.
“I should find him and get to bed,” I said.
“So early?” Lumina asked. I would miss those deep brown eyes. So thoughtful and intelligent. I wanted to convince her to tell Hylos how she really felt. That she might be afraid of what would happen, but it would be better to know his heart than not.
“Yes, I’m exhausted from the day and I’m sure Arlo is too drunk to even stand. Plus, we don’t need to end the night with him finally punching Morvyn in the face.”
Lumina gave a little grin. “I wouldn’t mind seeing that.”
“If I’m going to be verbally abused, I’ll need another drink.” Morvyn walked off. I wanted to grab him, hug him goodbye. But he vanished into the crowd.
My heart ached as I looked back to Lumina and Nixie. Quickly, I wrapped my arms around them both, pulling them in before they slipped away too.
“Thank you,” I whispered.
“What for?” Nixie asked.
“For being my friends.” My first true friends.
They both squeezed back.
“Of course, Elowyn, you were brought to us,” Nixie said.
