Kavalla thought of the woman, Luna, as he made his way through the streets. For some reason she had captivated him. Abrielle and certainly Cerena, would be considered more beautiful, but there was something about her. She was more than just independent. She looked strong, willful and not to be trifled with.

He arrived at the shop that was his destination and so, put all distractions aside. The shop was closed. He banged on the door, but no one came. He'd have to talk to this alchemist tomorrow. It was getting late and he had to prepare for tonight. He headed back to the ship and gathered his clothes for tonight's gala. His friend and shipmate Aldo appeared at his door

'Off to the grand ball with Lady Celena I see'. Aldo spoke with irony in his voice.
'Jealous?' Mocked Roland/Kavalla

The dark haired and deeply tanned man smiled, grabbing Roland's arm and patting him hard on the back and gave him a resounding 'Yes! I'll never figure out what such a beauty as Celena could see in you!' Aldo comically chided.

Kavalla liked this man well enough, but needed to be moving on to new things and better quarters. After a few more smacks, pats and shakes Kavalla left and headed for Celena's and her father's grand chateau. Celena;s personal servant let him in and saw him to a very small guest room. Kavalla guessed this was the Prime Minister's idea. He didn't care. The Prime Minister would soon be answering to him. He dressed quickly and when he finished there was a light knock on the door.

Roland/Kavalla opened the door and he was greeted by a ravishing Celena. She was a tall woman of nearly six feet with curves in all the right places and long dark hair that was set high on her head and cascaded down her back. Her dress was satin white, open wide in front and left little to the imagination. She was something of a trend setter for fashion and the open cleavage among the young and wealthy women had caught on. Kavalla liked this just fine. Right now a gauzy stole covered her, but did little to hide.

'You are simply stunning my love.' Said Roland
'Of course.' Was her expected and immodest response.

They made for Parliament Circle, which was across the street and went straight to the Grand Hall. When they entered they were announced and then greeted first by her father then some of the other guests in attendance. Her friend Lady Annabelle was there with Captain Lorebeck.

Only a few minutes passed when the crier announced, 'His eminence, Tabor Jael, Emperor of Gotodonia and his attendants, Lord Islor and Lord Smoldren.'

Three very large figures filled the high entrance arch then came forward with Jael leading the way. Lord Islor turned out to be an elf. Apparently of the grey clan of Gotodonia. Kavalla watched Celena'a face take on a look. He recognized that look of desire. Kavalla knew she wanted power. She didn't care for parliaments, she wanted to be a princess, queen or perhaps an empress. He actually laughed to himself on this. She may, in fact, achieve such a goal.

The other thing that took Kavalla aback was Jael's attire. He had donned a diviner's robe and cowl and had spectacles upon his face. Amazing and clever. This made him look holy, humble and hid his massive and scarred body, as well as his disturbing visage.

Celena greeted him first. She let her stole open as she offered the big man her hand and spoke, 'Welcome to the fair city of Messnia. I am Celena, daughter of the Lord of Parliament.'

Roland/Kavalla merely bowed with a smirk as he offered Celena off his arm. He imagined the look of the Prime Minister as she used the term 'Lord of Parliament' and exposed her cleavage.

In a deep, yet, unimposing voice that filled the hall, Jael responded. 'The pleasure is all mine to be greeted first by one so lovely.'

Oh boy, thought Kavalla, this is going to be good. Then he suddenly realized the ring on his left hand had become quite warm and was glowing alternating shades of blue white and smoky black. He also noticed the icy stare of the elf. The guards were elementals.

The story shall continue soon...

Figures set up in poser, imported into a created scene in Vue 9 infinite and rendered there in.
Thanks for the look