The face looks well done. I agree that you need to add some contrast to it. I think think maybe picking out some random scales and possibly doing them in a different color, like gold would help some.
I agree, the scales look a little bland, but it shouldn\'t take much to really make them pop. I like your idea of some freehand on the back of the cloak. It won\'t take much, this\'ll be a rockin mini.