EMRYSA

Chapter Five

Under the high sun, casting its golden rays upon the lively scene, the hour had arrived at noon. Amidst the bustling crowd and vibrant market stalls of the fair, nestled among the colorful array of shops, stood The Acolyte Boutique. Its presence beckoned passersby with an air of mystique and enchantment. The boutique's facade, adorned with intricate carvings and gilded accents.

Within the intimate space of the boutique, Ciara stood with an air of nonchalance, her eyes reflecting a lack of interest in the surrounding wares. Prudy, on the other hand, exuded an infectious enthusiasm and delight, her eyes shimmering with excitement and pleasure as she explored the items on display. Morgana, with an unwavering focus, directed her gaze toward her magi-slate, engrossed in who knows what. The Ickies, their mischievous grins lighting up the room, infused the atmosphere with their boundless energy and youthful exuberance.

"Welcome to The Acolyte Boutique! How may we assist you on this mystical day?" A young woman greeted them. "Um, we are here to buy some clothes," Dicky declared.

"Yes that is what people come here for." The boutique staff responded, wearing a warm smile. "Ignore him, can you show us the mens section please?" Ricky requested.

"Of course. Tobbs, please accompany these young gentlemen to the smaller men's section," the boutique staff instructed.

Ciara provided the Ickies with Gaius and Mordecai's clothing measurements, emphasizing that they should refrain from venturing into the ladies section. Additionally, she cautioned them against causing any mischief.

Within the confines of the ladies' section, Prudy persistently presented Ciara with various outfits to try on. Despite her reluctance, Ciara found herself reluctantly donning the fifteenth dress of the day. This particular garment was a resplendent pink gown adorned with intricate ruby embellishments.

"Amazing! You look absolutely radiant," Prudy exclaimed with genuine delight.

However, Ciara, who had always found dresses and gowns uncomfortable, voiced her hesitation. "I'm not so sure. It feels a bit itchy and-"

Prudy interjected, "Nonsense! I'm buying it for you. Enough with the shirts and trousers," she declared, resolute in her decision.

Ciara regarded her with a skeptical gaze. "Isn't that what you've been wearing? Isn't that all Morgana wears?" She questioned, her tone tinged with judgment.

Prudy quickly crossed her arms in a defensive stance, ready to explain herself. "Well, yes, but that's because of the contest," she clarified. "Imagine trying to outrun a wilddeoreon in a ball gown. And let's not mention Morgana's choice of outfits. We share a room with her."

"You win," Ciara agreed and admitted defeat.

After concluding their time at The Acolyte Boutique, they departed and resumed their exploration of the bustling fair. They indulged in various purchases.

Growing weary from their wanderings, they stumbled upon two vacant benches and gratefully took a seat. In order to decide who would be responsible for procuring nourishment, they resorted to a lively game of rock paper scissors. Unfortunately, Ciara and Prudy ended up as the losers.

"Alright, you handle the food, and I'll take care of the drinks," Prudy proposed. They sealed the agreement with a hearty steel strike before parting ways, leaving Morgana in the company of the mischievous Ickies.

"I know why you are always on your magi-slate," Micky said to Morgana with a smug smile. "What?" She asked him. Leaning closer, he whispered a revelation into her ear, causing a sudden shock expression to manifest on her face.

"Buttermilk bread, cheese cake, cream cake, fruit cake-" Ciara mumbled to herself, "- why don't they just say everything cake?" She groaned, her brows furrowing and her lips pursing in annoyance.