stopped mid-sentence in surprise. They were in front of a gate decorated with a portico, behind which he could see a wide promenade full of dignified-looking strollers. Wherever they had arrived, the dragon had never been here before.
‘We are on Telaren Street.’ Gizel gestured for him to stop staring at the surroundings and helped her out. ‘This is the part of Dorvus that attracts only the richest, most influential and socially savvy members of high society,’ she continued, accepting the dragon’s arm. ‘Or at least, all those who want to be seen as such,’ she whispered as she got out.
‘Today’s shopping... ’ Draco glanced around the area once more. Now, standing outside, he could get a better look at his surroundings. The portico separated the ordinary, unremarkable part of the shopping district from the fairytale scenery. Beautiful shop fronts covered with reliefs, frescoes and gilding, their windows displaying all manner of goods. Aristocrats in rich attire strolled by, glancing with interest at the displays, greeting acquaintances or political supporters as they passed. Splendour and wealth spilled out from within. And that was clearly how it was supposed to stay, with the City Guards vigilantly watching over anyone undesirable who came even a little too close to these fairy-tale realms. ‘Are you sure this is the place?’ The dragon assessed his outfit and had to admit that although he looked impeccable, it did not fit in with what he saw beyond the entrance. It was more suited to military buildings or an official, almost governmental, visit.
‘But of course,’ the elf smiled broadly when she saw the dragon's expression. ‘Apart from Viride, this is the only place worth paying attention to in terms of fashion. Maybe there aren't such great stylists here as in our capital, but you can really find something interesting.’ Gizel moved gracefully towards the entrance, and Draco had no choice but to follow, his arm still in the duchess's iron grip. Two soldiers in green uniforms followed close behind them. It seemed to the dragon that since they had left Ed'heer, the soldiers had become
