MIDSUMMER’S COURT (part 5 of 14)

[sidhe_faerie]

~~~~<O 5 O>~~~~

A few days later Endora and Princess Cara stood in the seamstresses shop trying on their new gowns.

Princess Cara was looking at herself in the mirror. The off the shoulder dress had lace sleeves and a lace ruffle on the top of the lace covered bodice. The wide sweeping skirt was plain silk. ”This will do nicely. Thank you. Endora come from behind that screen and let me see it.”

“Um. There really isn’t much to see. It barely covers my corset.” Endora came from behind the screen and looked like she was about to cry. “I can’t wear this. It shows way too much.”

The gown was low in the front and had a plain bodice and large sweeping skirt. It was sleeveless and strapless.  

“Endora you are a grown Fae now you should dress like it.”

“I have never been to a ball. You and Grandmother would never let me go to the Tuathan Ball in Crystal Spires. I just want the perfect dress and I don’t think this is it. I’m sorry I know you worked hard on it but it’s too low. I’m afraid if I dance I will be exposed. Can you do something?”

“The dress is no lower than mine. Endora you need to stop being silly.”

“Mother, I am not being silly.”

“Perhaps a bit of lace to make you feel less exposed, My Lady?” The seamstress suggested.

“Anything please. Maybe even some straps to hold it up. I’m afraid if I step on the hem the whole thing will come down.”

“Of course my lady. You should be confident at your first ball and not have to worry over your dress.” The seamstress picked up some extra fabric and pinned straps and a bit of lace on the bodice. “Is this better, My Lady?”

“It feels more secure. Thank you.” Endora said as she looked in the mirror. “It is a bit plain.”

“That is what jewels are for Endora.” Princess Cara told her.” I have something for you to wear. It’s a necklace from your father I have been saving for you.”

“I won’t be wearing my crystal?”

“No this is a special necklace. Your father gave it to me after you were born. Micah was so proud to have a beautiful daughter.” Princess Cara fought back tears as she thought of her brave Sidhe warrior that fell in the war with the Fomors.

“Thank you Mother I will wear it proudly in my father’s memory.” Endora smiled. She had no real memory of her father. He died when she was very small.

Endora wondered what her father would think of this dress. She was sure it would make even the bravest of warrior blush like a maid. Endora sighed as she looked at the dress with the additions. It would have to do. There was no time to do much more.

“Let me help you my lady and we can get it fixed for you. Maybe a layer of lace on the skirt? Or a sheer layer of embroidered silk?” The seamstress asked.

“The silk I think. I have a gold belt I think will look nice and a jeweled dagger.” Endora said.

“A dagger is not something a woman wears to a ball.” Princess Cara said from behind the screen.

“I should have something in case of trouble.” Endora said. “It was a gift from Dragas for my last birthday.”

“I remember it.” Princess Cara came out holding the ball gown in her day dress. “The hilt is pure carved crystal with a green stone on the top. It will be fine but don’t be surprised if you are asked to remove it. Every Court has different rules about weapons.”

“I know.” Endora went behind the screen and the seamstress helped her off with the gown. Endora dressed in her usual tunic and breeches and pulled on her boots. She came from behind the screen and looked at her mother. “I need to train and then I will take Sugar Plum out again.”

“Sugar Plum?” Princess Cara asked.

“I named the horse Sugar Plum. Aura made some once. They are like little cakes.”

“You named a well blooded horse after biscuits? Endora, can you not think of a better name?” Princess Cara asked.

“I like the name and I think she does too.” Endora smiled. “I will see you for supper.”

“Be careful!”

“I will” Endora said as she left the room and headed for training.

“Your Highness, I have the order for the other dress.” The seamstress handed Princess Cara a parchment.

“I will send the funds to you immediately on my return to my chambers. It is not as much as I thought it would be.” Princess Cara admitted.

“I have good contacts.” The seamstress laughed. “The silk is from Tir-nan-og. I traded cloth made by the Fae weavers for it. You would think they wouldn’t want that plain stuff but it’s indestructible after it is made into a garment.”

“I know. The Sidhe Guards wear tunics made of it. Princess Cara handed the parchment back and walked to her chambers.

PART 6