Chapter18: Party

As the people danced, thunder echoed in tandem with the beat of drums and feet, expanded the sound and carried it through the areas surrounding the village. A large bonfire ignited, engulfing the land in flickering light. Shadows twisted and melded with the ground, reflected off the trees, and it seemed as if the entire forest celebrated with them.

On the dais, Helene wrapped her arms around Jaxx and pressed a kiss into the side of her cheek. Her father approached and laid a hand on her shoulder. His eyes bore down into her own, stern as ever, but with a hint of approval, which was affirmed as he gave a single nod of his head.

“Oh, Jaxx,” her mother said as she pulled back and stared up. “That was a beautiful speech.”

“Mm,” Octavius hummed. “Just remember, you have to actually keep your word.”

Helene shot him a look and gently shoved his shoulder. She shook her head and then looked back to their daughter.