11

Back within the bustling halls of the Academy of Ad Laera, Eira’s path to the hallway was abruptly blocked. A figure descended with graceful precision, the rhythmic beat of red and black fairy wings announcing his arrival. He landed lightly before her, effectively cutting off her route.

“G’morning Miss Wolflace.”

He greeted, his voice a smooth, melodious drawl. A wide, confident grin stretched across his face as he leaned casually against the wall beside her, his gaze lingering with undisguised admiration. He took his time, deliberately drinking in her features. His name was Halston, and he was a striking presence. Chestnut curls framed a face tanned by the sun, and his ruby red eyes sparkled with amusement and something… more. He was a fourth-year student, a fire fairy of considerable power, and, as if that weren’t enough, the son of the academy’s formidable headmistress. He exuded an air of privilege and effortless charm, the kind that usually left little room for rejection.

Eira’s gaze, a cool, dimly lit blue, met Halston’s with a carefully constructed expression of polite indifference. A subtle blush, barely perceptible against her tan skin, betrayed a flicker of internal turmoil. He was imposing, easily a foot taller than her, and his presence seemed to fill the hallway.

“Goodmorning, Halston.”

Her voice was carefully modulated, attempting to convey a casual disinterest while still maintaining a semblance of politeness. Her own wings fluttered almost imperceptibly, a nervous habit, as her eyes remained locked on his ruby red gaze, deliberately avoiding a lingering glance at his chiseled muscles and undeniably handsome features. He was, without a doubt, the object of affection for nearly every fairy her age, along with a considerable number of students in the upper classes.

“What brings you into the second year wing?”

She asked, her tone laced with a thinly veiled skepticism. It was a rhetorical question, of course. Halston rarely ventured into the lower levels unless he had a specific reason – and given his current posture, his lingering gaze, and the way he seemed to deliberately block her path, she suspected she already knew what that reason was. He simply enjoyed making his presence known.

Halston’s grin widened, revealing a flash of white teeth.

“Ever the perceptive one aren’t we?” h

He chuckled, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial murmur. He glanced around the bustling hallway, as if checking for eavesdroppers, before leaning in closer, invading Eira’s personal space. The scent of cinnamon and something faintly metallic – perhaps the lingering scent of fire magic – wafted from him.

“I’d like to take you to the Lantern Festival tonight. What say you?”

He held her gaze, his ruby eyes sparkling with anticipation, a challenge, and a touch of playful arrogance. The hallway around them seemed to fade into background noise, the chatter of students and the rustle of wings becoming a distant hum. All that remained was Halston’s intense focus and the weight of his unspoken expectation. He wasn’t asking, not really. It was more of a declaration, a confident assumption that she would accept. The Lantern Festival was the highlight of the academy’s social calendar, a night of dazzling displays, enchanting music, and romantic encounters. A night no fairy, especially one as captivating as Eira, would want to miss – particularly not with him.

Eira’s gaze sharpened, lifting to meet Halston’s with a newfound intensity. She swept a strand of hair back behind her shoulder, a small, deliberate gesture of defiance, before folding her arms across her chest, a subtle barrier against his encroaching presence. A faint flush rose on her cheeks, betraying the internal conflict raging within her. Last year’s festival had been a pleasant experience, spent in the company of newfound friends. But this… this was different. Halston represented something else entirely.

The hallway seemed to shrink, the surrounding students fading into a blurry backdrop as she focused solely on him.

“Tempting, tempting...”

She murmured, her voice remarkably calm despite the turmoil within. A delicate scent of morning roses blossomed around her, a subtle fragrance that clashed and mingled with Halston’s memorable cinnamon aroma, creating a heady, intoxicating blend. It was a silent challenge, a delicate dance of attraction and resistance.

A slow smile spread across Halston’s face, a predatory glint entering his ruby eyes. He seemed to relish her hesitation, her carefully constructed facade of indifference. He leaned even closer.

“Do I have an option?”

Eira finally asked, a faint smirk playing on her lips. It was a clever question, a veiled invitation to confirm what she already suspected. The air between them crackled with unspoken tension, a silent battle of wills. Halston’s gaze swept over her, lingering on the curve of her lips, the delicate flutter of her wings, the subtle rise and fall of her chest. He seemed to be assessing her, calculating the precise degree of her resistance.

Halston’s lips pursed into a thin, deliberate line. He seized the opportunity, closing the distance between them, effectively trapping Eira within his sphere of influence. One hand came up, pressing against the stone wall beside her head, effectively cutting off her escape. He leaned in, his body radiating warmth and power, until his breath ghosted across her cheek. The scent of cinnamon and fire magic intensified, almost overwhelming her senses.

“Everyone has a choice, little lady…”

His voice was a low, husky murmur, laced with a playful challenge. He was so close she could feel the warmth of his skin, the subtle tremor of his muscles. It was a deliberate provocation, a test of her resolve. He could have kissed her, the realization struck Eira with a startling jolt. The air crackled with anticipation, a silent invitation to surrender. But he didn’t. Instead, he smirked faintly, a flicker of triumph in his ruby eyes, before withdrawing just enough to allow her to breathe again. He seemed to revel in the effect he had on her, in the blush that now stained her cheeks a delicate rose colour.

“Meet me at the school gates at dusk.”

He said, his voice regaining its usual confident tone. He didn't wait for a response, didn’t need one. He had made his intentions clear, and he knew, with a certainty that bordered on arrogance, that she would be there. With a final, lingering glance, he strode off, leaving Eira breathless and flustered in his wake. His movements were fluid and graceful, radiating an effortless power that drew the attention of every student he passed. He moved with the assuredness of someone who knew his worth, someone accustomed to getting what he wanted.

Left alone, Eira stood for a moment, momentarily paralyzed by the lingering scent of cinnamon and fire magic that clung to the air. Halston’s departure had left a void, a strange emptiness that was quickly filled by the approaching chatter of her friends. They emerged from their hiding spots around the corner, a flurry of brightly colored wings and excited whispers. Their eyes sparkled with curiosity, their voices bubbling with a thousand questions. Before they could descend upon her, Eira instinctively took a step back, then another, quickly putting distance between herself and their inquisitive gazes. Her wings fluttered rapidly, a visible sign of her overstimulation and mounting excitement.

“Eira! What was 'that' all about?”

Orchid, a petite fairy with shimmering lavender wings, was the first to break the silence, her voice laced with breathless anticipation. She bounced on the balls of her feet, her eyes wide with curiosity.

“Was he… flirting with you?”

Eira cut through their barrage of questions with a single, decisive statement.

“I need a dress.”

Her voice was surprisingly calm, masking the whirlwind of emotions churning within her. She didn’t elaborate, didn’t offer any explanation. She simply turned and headed straight for the large bay doors that led out of the academy and into the bustling capital city. Her wings beat with a newfound purpose, propelling her forward with a determined grace. The academy grounds quickly fell behind her, replaced by the vibrant sights and sounds of the city.

The capital city throbbed with life, a kaleidoscope of colours, sounds, and scents. Eira navigated the crowded streets with ease, her wings expertly maneuvering around pedestrians and vendors. She quickly located a boutique renowned for its exquisite gowns and elegant designs – 'Silken Dreams' is was called. The shop window was a dazzling display of shimmering fabrics, intricate embroidery, and captivating silhouettes.

Delicate lanterns cast a warm glow on the dresses, creating an inviting and enchanting atmosphere. A small silver bell chimed as Eira entered, announcing her arrival to the attentive shopkeeper, a kindly woman with a warm smile and discerning eye. The boutique was filled with the soft scent of lavender and silk, a soothing balm to Eira’s racing pulse. Racks of dresses stretched as far as the eye could see, a sea of colours and styles waiting to be explored.

Eira’s mind raced, a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. The image of Halston’s smug smirk fueled her resolve. She wanted a dress that would not only turn heads but also subtly undermine his confidence, a silent declaration of her own self worth. The thought sent a strange flutter through her chest, a mix of defiance and excitement. It was an unforeseen challenge, one that stirred a restless energy within her.

'If the hottest guy in the academy wants me…'

She mused thoughtfully, a wry smile playing on her lips. She wanted nothing more than to show him up on his offer.

“Right this way, young lady."

The shopkeeper said with a warm smile, leading Eira through a maze of delicate fabrics and shimmering gowns. She presented a selection of dresses that seemed tailored for a fairy – ethereal designs in pastel shades, adorned with delicate embroidery and shimmering accents. But none of them quite captured Eira’s critical eye. They were beautiful, certainly, but lacked the impact she desired. They were too… predictable. Too 'fairy-esque'. She needed something unexpected, something that would challenge expectations and leave a lasting impression. She ran a hand over a dress of spun moonlight, dismissing it with a subtle shake of her head.

“How long would it take to do something… custom?”

Eira asked, her voice laced with a hint of determination. She turned to face the shopkeeper, her emerald eyes sparkling with a newfound resolve.

“I’m not looking for something off the rack. I want something… unique.”

The shopkeeper’s smile widened, recognizing the spark of ambition in Eira’s voice. She was accustomed to discerning clients, those who sought not just a dress, but a statement.

"I apologize for such a last minute request, I'll be sure to pay to make up for the issue."

Eira offered.

The shopkeeper chuckled softly, a warm and reassuring sound.

“Last minute requests are not uncommon, dear. Especially with the Lantern Festival approaching. We’re quite used to a little… urgency.”

She paused, assessing Eira with a practiced eye.

“The question isn’t whether we 'can' accommodate you, but what sort of masterpiece you have in mind. A truly custom creation, with intricate detailing and high-quality materials, would require at least three days, perhaps four, to ensure a perfect fit and finish.”

She gestured towards a comfortable velvet armchair.

“Do have a seat, my dear. Let us discuss your vision.”

"The festival is tonight though.."

Eira spoke, mildly disappointed at the lengthy period of time to make the dress. Either way, she sat herself down in the armchair as instructed.

The shopkeeper’s smile faltered, just for a moment.

“Tonight?”

She repeated, a touch of surprise in her voice.

“Oh dear, yes I nearly forgot myself. That does present a… challenge.”

She tapped a finger against her chin, her brow furrowed in thought.

“A fully custom gown in a single day is… ambitious, to say the least.”

She paused, then her eyes lit up with a spark of inspiration.

“However… we 'might' be able to work with an existing design, altering it to your specifications. It wouldn’t be a completely original creation, but we could make significant changes to achieve the look you desire.”

She looked at Eira expectantly.

“Would you be open to that?”

The shopkeeper followed Eira’s gaze, her eyes landing on the light teal dress. A pleased expression crossed her face.

“Ah, yes. A beautiful choice. A classic design, but with a lovely intricacy to the Celtic knotwork.”

She nodded approvingly.

“And you have a good eye, my dear. The pattern does resemble the Tree of Life, a very potent symbol.”

She walked over to the dress, examining it with a professional air.

“Yes, we can certainly work with this. The length can be adjusted, of course. And the sleeves… well, the sleeves are rather dated, aren’t they? We can replace them entirely, or perhaps modify them into something more… flattering.”

She turned back to Eira, a confident smile on her face.

“Excellent. Let’s get you measured, and then we can discuss the details of the alterations.”

The shopkeeper finished, already bustling with renewed energy. She produced a measuring tape from beneath the counter, her movements swift and precise.

“First, we’ll need your bust, waist, and hip measurements. Don’t worry, I’ve seen it all before.”

She added with a reassuring wink.

“And then we’ll discuss the sleeves. Do you have a particular style in mind? Perhaps something shorter, more fitted? Or perhaps a completely different design altogether?”

The shopkeeper worked with quiet efficiency, her hands moving deftly as she took Eira’s measurements. She didn’t linger or pry, maintaining a professional distance while still radiating a warm and welcoming aura. She seemed to anticipate Eira’s needs, offering a delicate shawl to drape around her shoulders as she undressed.

“No sleeves, and elbow-length gloves with a floral pattern… excellent choice."

The shopkeeper murmured, scribbling notes on a small pad.

“That will create a lovely contrast, and the gloves will add a touch of elegance and mystery.”

She paused, her eyes twinkling as Eira described her vision for the neckline.

“A slightly exposed chest, showcasing your emerald crest necklace… a stunning focal point. It will draw the eye and add a touch of sophistication.”

She finished taking Eira’s measurements, stepping back to assess her with a discerning gaze.

“Yes, this is coming together beautifully. We can certainly create a dress that is both striking and flattering.”

She smiled warmly.

“Now, let’s discuss the fabric. While the existing teal is lovely, we could also consider adding a subtle shimmer or texture to enhance the overall effect. Perhaps a delicate silk brocade… or a gossamer overlay with embroidered vines?”

The shopkeeper trailed off, gesturing towards a collection of fabric swatches displayed on a nearby table. Each swatch shimmered and flowed, a kaleidoscope of colors and textures.

“The choice is yours, of course. We want to ensure the fabric complements your skin tone and enhances the overall design.”

She paused, observing Eira’s thoughtful expression.

“And what about the hemline? We’re shortening it, naturally, but how short would you like it? Ankle-length, calf-length, or perhaps something a bit more daring?”

She offered a playful smile.

“The possibilities are endless, my dear.” A young seamstress hurried over, carrying a sketchbook and a selection of pencils.

“Here’s Elsie, our most talented designer. She’ll sketch out a few options based on our discussion, so you can visualize the final result.”

The shopkeeper gestured towards Elsie, who offered Eira a polite nod. Elsie quickly settled at a small table, opening the sketchbook and sharpening her pencils with practiced ease.

“So...”

She said, her voice soft and focused.

“You’re envisioning a teal dress, sleeveless, with elbow-length gloves featuring a floral pattern that complements the Celtic knotwork… and a slightly lower neckline to showcase a beautiful emerald crest necklace.”

She glanced up at Eira, her eyes bright with creative energy.

“Wonderful! Do you have any preference for the style of the gloves? Perhaps fitted and sleek, or more flowing and romantic? And what about the floral pattern? Do you have any specific flowers in mind?”

She began to sketch rapidly, her pencil dancing across the page, bringing Eira’s vision to life with each stroke. The shopkeeper, meanwhile, moved to retrieve a selection of emerald-toned fabrics, laying them out on a nearby counter for Eira's inspection.

“While Elsie works on the sketch, perhaps you could take a look at these and see if any of them catch your eye...”

She suggested, her voice gentle.

“We have silk, satin, velvet, and even a few more exotic blends. Each one has a different texture and sheen, so it’s important to find the one that feels just right.”

Eira grazed her fingertips over each fabric, clearly in a zone of her own world with the abundance of help being offered to her.

"Lilies. I would like the floral pattern to resemble blossoming lilies with it being sleek and fitting."

She spoke politely to Elsie with a growing smile on her face.

"As for the dress and fabric. I want it daring, to fit my personality. Velvet feels appealing, but if I may ask, what exotic blends did you have in mind?"

Elsie’s pencil flew across the page, deftly incorporating the blossoming lilies into the glove design. She held up the sketch, showing Eira a detailed rendering of the gloves, complete with delicate floral embroidery.

“Here you are...”

She said, her voice filled with pride.

“Sleek and fitted, with lilies in full bloom. What do you think?”

Eira nodded her head with approval, smiling at the lady.

"They look beautiful."

Elsie beamed, a flush of pride colouring her cheeks.

“Thank you! I’m glad you like them.”

She quickly sketched a full-body design, incorporating the gloves and neckline into the overall silhouette of the dress.

“Here’s a rough idea of how it will all come together.”

She said, presenting the sketch to Eira. The drawing showed a stunning teal velvet gown, with a fitted bodice and a flowing skirt that ended just above the ankle. The elbow-length gloves, adorned with blossoming lilies, added a touch of elegance and mystery, while the slightly exposed neckline showcased a delicate emerald crest necklace. The Celtic knotwork on the bodice provided a subtle yet sophisticated detail. It was a truly breathtaking design. The shopkeeper, meanwhile, had returned with a selection of exotic fabrics, laying them out before Eira with a flourish.

“Now, for the more unusual blends we have Moonpetal silk, woven with threads infused with crushed moonstones, giving it a subtle, ethereal glow...”

The shopkeeper explained, holding up a shimmering fabric that seemed to capture the light.

“Then there’s Sunweave, a blend of silk and gold, known for its warmth and radiance. And finally, we have Shadowsilk, a mysterious fabric woven with strands of obsidian, creating a dark, alluring sheen.”

She paused, allowing Eira to examine each fabric closely.

“Each blend has its own unique properties and qualities. Moonpetal silk is incredibly soft and lightweight, perfect for a flowing gown. Sunweave is more durable and structured, ideal for a more tailored fit. And Shadowsilk… well, Shadowsilk is for those who want to make a statement.”

She smiled knowingly.

“It’s a bold choice, but it can be absolutely stunning.”

She gestured.

"Would the shadowsilk offset the teal tone of the dress?"

Eira asked, touching each of the three fabrics, stroking each one between her fingers.

The shopkeeper’s eyes lit up with enthusiasm.

“An excellent question, my dear! Yes, absolutely. Shadowsilk would create a striking contrast with the teal, highlighting its richness and depth. It would add an element of intrigue and sophistication, making the dress truly unforgettable.”

She held up the Shadowsilk and the teal velvet side-by-side, allowing Eira to visualize the combination.

“The dark sheen of the Shadowsilk would accentuate the vibrant hue of the teal, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow. It’s a bold choice, but I believe it would suit your personality perfectly.”

Elsie, who had been quietly observing, chimed in.

“I can already picture it."

She said, her voice filled with excitement.

“The velvet would provide a luxurious texture, while the Shadowsilk would add a touch of edge and mystery. It would be a truly unique and captivating gown.”

Elsie quickly grabbed a charcoal pencil and began sketching again, this time incorporating the Shadowsilk into the design. She shaded the bodice and sleeves with a dark, shimmering hue, contrasting it with the vibrant teal of the skirt. The result was breathtaking – a gown that was both elegant and daring, sophisticated and mysterious. The shopkeeper, pleased with the direction the design was taking, turned her attention to the finer details.

“Now, let’s discuss embellishments.”

She said, her voice brimming with creativity.

“Would you like any additional accents, such as beading, embroidery, or lace? We could add delicate silver embroidery to the lilies on the gloves, or perhaps incorporate a scattering of shimmering crystals along the neckline.”

She paused, allowing Eira to consider the options.

“We could also add a subtle train to the back of the dress, for a touch of drama.”

The shopkeeper gestured towards a rack of shimmering fabrics, each adorned with intricate embellishments.

“Or perhaps a delicate lace overlay for the bodice, adding a touch of romance and femininity?”

Elsie continued to sketch, seamlessly incorporating the embellishments into the design. She showed Eira a close-up of the neckline, adorned with delicate silver embroidery and shimmering crystals.

“Here’s an idea.”

She smiled, her voice soft and focused.

“The crystals would catch the light with every movement, creating a dazzling effect. And the silver embroidery would complement the emerald crest necklace beautifully.”

Elsie carefully folded the sketch and handed it to Eira.

“It will take approximately three days to complete, allowing time for the tailoring and embellishments.”

She glanced at the shopkeeper, who nodded in agreement.

“We will require a deposit of 10 Silver Coins to begin the work.”

"Three days? I thought the dress would be modified before the festival.."

Eira scratched the back of her head, looking at the both of them with a lost smile. She needed it before dusk, before she met with her date.

The shopkeeper’s smile faltered slightly.

“Oh dear.”

She said, her voice laced with concern.

“I apologize, my dear. We are quite busy with other commissions at the moment, and creating a gown of this complexity takes time and precision. Three days is the absolute minimum we can manage.”

Elsie chimed in, her voice apologetic.

“We could potentially expedite the process, but it would mean sacrificing some of the finer details. We wouldn’t want to compromise the quality of the gown, especially for such a special occasion.”

She looked at Eira with a pleading expression.

“Is there any chance you could attend the festival in a different gown? Perhaps something simpler?”

The shopkeeper wrung her hands, clearly distressed.

“We understand this is a disappointment, but we simply cannot rush perfection. We want to create a gown that you will cherish for years to come.”

She paused, then added with a hopeful tone.

“Perhaps we could offer a discount on a pre-made gown? We have a beautiful selection in the back, and I’m sure we could find something that suits your taste.”

Elsie, sensing Eira’s disappointment, quickly offered another suggestion.

“Alternatively, we could focus on modifying a simpler dress to achieve a similar effect. We could add the Shadowsilk accents and the golden lace, but forgo some of the more intricate embellishments. It wouldn't be exactly as you envisioned, but it would still be a stunning gown.”

She held Eira’s gaze, her expression sincere.

“We want to make you happy, my dear. We just need to be realistic about what we can accomplish in such a short timeframe.”

A small chime above the door announced a new customer entering the boutique, briefly interrupting the conversation.

"Will... the dress grow with me as I age?"

Eira asked Elsie as the shopkeeper left to assist the new customer.

Elsie blinked, surprised by the question. She paused her sketching, her brow furrowing in thought.

“Grow with you?”

She repeated, tilting her head slightly.

“That’s… an unusual request.”

She chuckled softly.

“Generally, gowns are made to fit a specific size, my dear. They don’t simply just… grow.”

She tapped her pencil against her chin, considering.

“However.”

She continued, a spark of inspiration lighting up her eyes.

“I do suppose we 'could' incorporate some clever tailoring techniques. We could add hidden seams and adjustable panels that would allow the dress to be slightly altered as your form changes. It wouldn’t be a significant amount of growth, perhaps an inch or two, but it would provide some flexibility.”

She glanced at the sketch, carefully analyzing the design.

“The velvet would be particularly amenable to this technique, as it has a natural stretch."

Eira had to shake her head on the impossible request, there's no telling how much taller, or more defining she'll be next year. Damn Halston for this last minute dress search...

"Can I see what you have in the back then? You might have something similar to what I had in mind, if that's alright..."

Elsie’s expression softened with understanding.

“Of course, my dear.”

She said, nodding towards a doorway at the back of the boutique.

“It was a bit of a fanciful thought, wasn’t it? Don't worry about it.”

She gestured for Eira to follow her, leading the way through a curtained archway into a spacious back room. The room was filled with racks of clothing in every colour and style imaginable. Gowns of silk and velvet, dresses of linen and cotton, and skirts of shimmering lace hung from the racks, creating a dazzling display of fashion.

“We have a wide selection of pre-made gowns.”

Elsie said, her voice echoing slightly in the larger space.

“Everything from simple day dresses to elaborate ballgowns. Let’s see… something similar to what you had in mind…”

She began to scan the racks, her eyes darting back and forth as she searched for a suitable option.

“You mentioned a teal colour, correct? And a daring design?”

She paused, her gaze falling upon a gown tucked away in a corner.

“Ah, here’s one that might be of interest.”

She carefully pulled the gown from the rack, holding it up for Eira’s inspection. It was a stunning teal velvet gown, with a slightly exposed neckline and a fitted bodice. The skirt flowed gracefully to the floor, and the sleeves were long and flowing, adorned with delicate lace cuffs. While it lacked the golden lace and star embellishments that Eira had envisioned, it possessed a similar alluring quality.

“It’s a bit more modest than what you originally described.”

Elsie admitted.

“But the velvet is exquisite, and the colour is a perfect match. We could potentially add some embellishments to customize it to your liking.”

She held the gown up against Eira's body, assessing the fit.

“It appears to be roughly your size, though we would need to make a few adjustments to ensure a perfect fit.”

The shopkeeper, having finished assisting the new customer, rejoined them in the back room. She examined the gown with a discerning eye.

“Hmm, a lovely choice, Elsie.”

She said, nodding approvingly.

“The velvet is exceptionally soft, and the colour is simply divine. It would look stunning on you, my dear.”

She turned to Eira, her expression encouraging.

“Perhaps we could add a sash of golden silk to accentuate your waist? And maybe some delicate embroidery around the neckline?”

She paused, considering.

“Or, we could incorporate some of the Shadowsilk fabric into the sleeves, to create a touch of mystery and allure.”

She beamed at Eira.

“We’re quite skilled at alterations and embellishments, you know. We can work wonders with a little time and creativity.”

She gestured towards a comfortable seating area in the back room.

“Why don’t you try it on, my dear? See how it feels. We can then discuss the possibilities for customization.”

Elsie carefully helped Eira out of her current attire, and assisted her in slipping into the teal velvet gown. The fabric felt cool and luxurious against her skin, and the gown fit surprisingly well, hugging her curves in all the right places. Eira gazed at her reflection in a nearby mirror, her expression thoughtful. The gown was undeniably beautiful, but it wasn’t quite what she had envisioned. It lacked the unique, daring edge that she desired. However, with a few carefully chosen embellishments, it could potentially be transformed into something truly special. She turned to Elsie and the shopkeeper, a small smile playing on her lips.

“It’s… lovely.”

She admitted, turning slowly to allow them to see the fit.

“The velvet is wonderful, and it fits quite well. But… it’s missing something. It feels a little too… safe.”

She gestured towards the sketch Elsie held.

“It needs a touch of the drama I was hoping for. The Shadowsilk, definitely. And perhaps something to draw the eye upwards, towards the shoulders?”

The shopkeeper nodded enthusiastically.

“Excellent ideas, my dear! We can certainly incorporate those elements. We have a beautiful bolt of Shadowsilk in the back, and we could create a stunning capelet to drape over your shoulders. Or perhaps some delicate embroidery with silver thread?”

Elsie chimed in, her eyes sparkling with creativity.

“We could also add some strategically placed crystals."

Elsie and the shopkeeper paused mid-discussion, following Eira’s strayed gaze to the dress she’d silently discovered. Elsie’s eyes widened in surprise.

“Oh! That one… that’s a recent arrival. We hadn’t even had a chance to put it out on display yet.”

She approached cautiously, examining the gown with a professional eye. It was indeed a striking piece – a flowing combination of deep green and white, with delicate lacing and a daring side slit. The fusion of velvet and moonpetal silk was seamless, creating a fabric that shimmered with an ethereal glow.

“It’s… quite unusual.”

Elsie admitted, her voice laced with curiosity.

“A very bold choice.”

The shopkeeper, however, seemed more enthusiastic.

“It’s exquisite! The craftsmanship is exceptional. The moonpetal silk is of the highest quality, and the velvet is divinely soft. It’s a gown fit for a princess, or perhaps even… a sorceress.”

She turned to Eira, her expression encouraging.

“It’s certainly more in line with your original vision, isn’t it? The drama, the allure… it has it all.”

Elsie carefully began to unlace the teal velvet gown, assisting Eira in stepping out of it.

“It’s a bit more complex to put on, as the lacing is quite intricate.”

She explained, her fingers deftly maneuvering the delicate fabric.

“But it will be worth the effort, I assure you.”

As Eira slipped into the green and white gown, she felt a strange sensation – a tingling warmth that spread through her body. The fabric seemed to mold to her form, accentuating her curves and enhancing her natural grace. The moonpetal silk felt cool and soothing against her skin, while the velvet provided a luxurious weight. Once fully dressed, Eira turned to the mirror, her breath catching in her throat. The gown was… breathtaking. The deep green colour complemented her blue eyes, and the white lacing accentuated her slender waist. The side slit revealed just a hint of leg, adding a touch of playful allure. And the fingerless gloves, crafted from the same moonpetal silk, completed the ensemble, lending an air of mystery and sophistication. She felt… powerful. Confident. Like she could conquer anything.

"How much?"

Eira finally asked. She wasn't rich or anything... but her aunt Thaline had been relaying her a steady allowance in place of her parents.

Elsie exchanged a quick glance with the shopkeeper, a knowing look passing between them.

“That gown… is rather special...”

Elsie began, carefully choosing her words.

“The materials alone are exceptionally rare and expensive. The moonpetal silk is harvested only during the full moon, and the velvet is imported from the distant kingdom of Faiun.”

She paused, taking a deep breath.

“The price… is 1 gold and 15 silver coins.”

"1 gold coin?"

Eira cleared her throat.

"A custom order with more rare materials cost less... how is this more... so much more?"

Elsie’s cheeks flushed a delicate pink.

“Ah, well… that’s a fair question, my dear.”

She gestured towards the shopkeeper, who stepped forward to explain.

“The custom order you’re referring to was a simpler design, utilizing readily available materials. This gown, however, is a pre-made piece, crafted by the renowned artisan, Master Ulara. Her work is highly sought after, and her creations are known for their exceptional quality and intricate detail.”

She paused, her expression apologetic.

“Furthermore, the moonpetal silk used in this gown is of a particularly rare variety, infused with traces of starlight. It possesses unique magical properties, enhancing the wearer’s natural aura.”

She smiled faintly.

“It’s said to bring good fortune and ward off ill omens.”

Elsie added quickly.

“And the velvet… it’s not just any velvet, my dear. It’s Faiunaan Night Velvet, woven with strands of shadowsilk, making it incredibly soft and… well, magical in its own right.”

The shopkeeper’s tone was carefully measured, attempting to justify the exorbitant price.

“Master Ulara's skill, combined with the rarity of the materials, naturally drives up the cost. It’s an investment, truly. A piece you’ll cherish for a lifetime.”

Elsie stepped closer to Eira, her voice softening.

“We understand it’s a significant sum, my dear. But we assure you, it’s worth every coin. It’s a gown fit for a queen.”

She hesitated, then added.

“We do have a layaway option, if that would be of assistance?”

Wearing the enchanting fabric explained her subtle power growth... she couldn't help but admire herself a bit more in the mirror. The price would eat away almost all of her savings. She'd worked hard to earn it... her and her papa beating bandits on the way to the capital two years ago.

Eira let out a low sigh, her grimoire fluttering over to her from the front of the shop where she had placed it. The pages flipped open in her hand, a large pouch magically phasing out of it's pages with the use of a basic storage spell.

"I can't very well part with the dress now. I love it."

Father's teachings of wasteful spending just went down the drain. Even so, she offered the sum to the shopkeeper...

~

The Academy of Ad Laera buzzed with anticipation. Fairies flitted about, their wings shimmering as they prepared for the Lantern Festival. Giggles and chatter filled the air, mingling with the scent of sweet pastries and blooming nightflowers. Students rushed to and fro, adjusting their outfits, practicing dances, and exchanging excited whispers. Eira navigated through the lively scene, her pace quickening as she approached her dorm room. She noticed Halston chatting with a group of friends near the courtyard, his eyes scanning the crowd. He didn't seem to notice her, and Eira deliberately avoided his gaze, focusing instead on reaching the sanctuary of her room. Upon entering, she found her roommate, Orchid, meticulously arranging a garland of luminous flowers in her hair.

"Oh, Eira! You're back! And… is that…?"

Orchid's jaw dropped as she caught sight of the garment bag.

“Is that the dress from Silken Dreams? The one everyone’s been talking about?”

Orchid rushed over, her soft lavender eyes sparkling with curiosity.

“It’s even more stunning in person! The colour… the velvet… it’s absolutely breathtaking.”

She reached out to gently touch the fabric, her touch reverent.

"You look like you've seen a ghost though, are you alright?"

"How did you find out? Did you perhaps follow me?"

Eira smirked, narrowing her gaze. She approached their shared standing mirror. Unwrapping the bag to free her new dress. Slowly, she undressed and then slipped herself into the material just how Elsie and the shopkeeper had shown her. The magic inside of her body churned excitedly. Eira allowed a small twirl to admire herself further in front of the mirror, a faint blush growing across her cheeks.

Orchid chuckled, raising her hands in mock surrender.

“Follow you? Goddesses, no! Word travels fast in this academy, especially when it comes to fashion. Elsie herself practically announced your purchase to anyone who would listen.”

She grinned, watching Eira carefully unwrap the gown.

“Besides, I saw Halston asking about you earlier. He seemed… rather eager to know if you’d found something specia, just for himl.”

Orchid's eyes widened as Eira slipped into the dress, a gasp escaping her lips.

“Oh. My. Stars. You look… ethereal.”

As Eira twirled, the dress seemed to flow around her, the moonpetal silk shimmering with an otherworldly glow. The velvet accentuated her figure, and the gown’s intricate details seemed to dance in the light. Orchid stepped closer, examining the dress with a critical eye.

“It’s not just beautiful, it’s… enhancing. Your aura is brighter, your wings seem to shimmer more intensely. It's like the dress is amplifying your magic.”

Orchid reached out and gently touched Eira’s wing, her expression awestruck.

“It’s incredible. You’ve completely outdone him, Eira. Halston won’t know what hit him.”

Eira, lost in her own reflection, barely registered Orchid's words. She continued to twirl softly, mesmerized by the way the dress moved with her, feeling a surge of power coursing through her veins. The shadowsilk felt cool against her skin, yet it radiated a subtle warmth, a comforting energy that resonated within...