Page 62 of Throne of Dreams
Maeve had never been to Niahvess before.
She’d roamed the palace and the stretch of pale pink sand, but she’d never been down into the city that seemed to float upon the many canals running through it. It was situated in the valley with the mountains in the distance, and turquoise river ways separated the pretty shops and homes rather than roads. There were cobblestone walking paths and ornate foot bridges, colorful buildings with bright awnings stretching over outdoor cafes. Flowers bloomed on every corner, the air was warm and sweetened by the scent of the sea and fresh florals, and Maeve had never seen anything quite so lovely.
She ventured down into the city with Tiernan and Ceridwen. Though she would’ve preferred the comfort of leggings and a bodice, she understood she was Archfae. When she participated in any sort of public appearance, gowns were required. She opted for a chiffon dress that fell off her shoulders and flowed around her legs. It was the color of an Autumn sunrise, a striking contrast to Tiernan’s midnight blue clothing and the soft gold of Ceridwen’s dress.
Tiernan paused before one of the paths that split into three separate bridges dividing the city. “Ceridwen has a few places to stop in the Market District, and if you want to visit the Spring fae, she can take you to them.”
Maeve looked up at him and shielded her eyes from the sunlight. “You’re not coming with us?”
He nodded toward the bridge leading to the right. “I’m needed at an appointment in the Shadow District this morning, but I’ll meet up with both of you afterward.”
“Shadow District?” Maeve’s brow arched and he gestured vaguely to the path leading toward an area of Niahvess that did in fact look cloaked in shadows. “How many districts are there?”
“Three.” He pointed them out to her. “The Market District, the Pleasure District, and the Shadow District.”
Her mouth fell open. “You have a Pleasure District?”
Ceridwen laughed and Maeve could’ve sworn Tiernan blushed.
“Notthatkind of pleasure, Maeve.” Ceridwen swatted at her playfully. “Pleasure as in food and drinks, different kinds of entertainment, and self-care.”
“Oh.” Now it was her turn to have her cheeks heat with embarrassment.
“Come on.” Ceridwen looped their arms together, still giggling. “There’s a shop here in town I’ve been dying to show you.”
“I’ll see you soon.” Tiernan bowed his head, just slightly, and pressed a featherlight kiss to her forehead. Then he strode off to the right without looking back.
“Must be some pretty important business,” Maeve murmured.
“Everything with Tiernan is important.” Ceridwen laughed, a soft, tinkling sound. “Let’s go through the city first and then I’ll take you to check in on the Spring fae.”
Together they strolled over a few bridges and wound their way into the heart of Niahvess. Magic seemed to vibrate and thrive within its beautiful shops and quaint little homes. It floated over her skin, carried by the breeze. There were restaurants and taverns, shops bursting with the wares of crafters whose magic allowed them to create any number of useful items. Art, glassware, trinkets, tapestries, lighting fixtures…all of it made with faerie magic.
Ceridwen stopped in front of a pretty shop with a pastel pink awning adorned with summer roses. “This is the one.”
When they stepped inside, a bell announced their arrival, and Maeve knew exactly why Ceridwen wanted to take her there.
It was a dress shop. A gorgeous establishment filled with an array of gowns, jewels, shoes, and crowns. Tiaras glittered behind glass cases, jewelry spilled from velvet boxes, and there was a gown for every color of the rainbow and then some.
A cute fae with a perky nose and kind eyes popped from behind a dress form. A tape measure tied to a navy sash hung from her waist, two pencils were stuck in the bun on top of her head, and she dusted her hands off on her cream-colored skirt before coming to greet them.
“Your Highness.” She curtsied before Ceridwen and then her eyes found Maeve. They widened, and when she smiled, it was bright and welcoming.
“Imogen.” Ceridwen reached out and clasped the shopkeeper’s hands. “Such a pleasure to see you again.”
“And you as well, my lady.” Her pale brown eyes slid to Maeve. “I see you brought a friend this time.”
“I did.” She gestured between them, her movements effortlessly graceful. “Imogen, I’d like you to meet Maeve Ruhdneah, High Princess of the Autumn Court.”
Imogen’s smile brightened even further, if such a thing was possible. “It’s an honor to meet you, Your Highness. Your reputation precedes you.”
Maeve blinked, hoping she meant her words as a compliment.
As though sensing where her mind had wandered, Imogen continued, “What you did for the Spring fae in the Summer forest…we’re all in awe of your valor.”
Maeve blushed. She’d hardly call what she’d done to protect them an act of valor, but she appreciated the acknowledgment nonetheless. “I only did what anyone else in my position would’ve done.”
Imogen’s features softened. “That’s what all the great ones say.”
