<div class="floatright">(http://fc05.deviantart.net/fs71/f/2013/331/d/d/tamisen_the_paladin_by_sirtiefling-d6vvgix.jpg)</div><br/>Caila walked without hurry through the Temple of Athena, the faint scent of incense aiding her in maintianing her calm and focus. Other acolytes of the goddess nodded to her in passing as they headed towards prayers, the kitchen, the scriptorium...wherever their daily duties lead. As a paladin of Athena, Caila's daily routine usually switched between prayers and combat practice, but today she had been summoned to speak with the Hierophant. The half-elven woman chose to dress simply for the meeting: A polished breastplate worn over a linen shirt, trousers tucked into soft leather boots with folded tops, and a white tabard featuring the blue aegis with crossed spears that was the symbol of Athena's paladins.<br/><br/>Once she arrived at the Hierophant's office, Caila was shown inside in short order. The Heirophant, an older human man whose black hair and beard had begun to streak with grey, greeted her and bade her to take a seat. "A matter has arisen that I believe should be assigned to you."<br/><br/>Caila bowed her head. "Your Eminence honors me. What is the situation?"<br/><br/>"We have received an invitation to a celebration hosted by the Lady Sigrid von Haj. Normally in such cases, a higer ranking member of the clergy would be sent to act as a representative of the Church. However, recent auguries have hinted at a possible turmoil or conflict arising from the event. The Lady von Haj collects many powerful artifacts, as you know. Also, we understand that Prince and Princess will be attending as well. Given the recent political rumblings, a more martial representative would be a better choice in case something untoward were to occur at the party."<br/><br/>"I see..." Caila thought about the possibilities: of someone attempting to steel on fo the Lady's artifacts. Or an assassination attempt on the Heir. Of course, there would be plenty of security, but the Heirophant was right: one more strong arm attending the event could not hurt. "I am honored to receive this assignment and shall do my best to ensure the safety of the Lady, her property, and her guests."<br/>---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br/><br/>"Caila Starflower, Paladin of Athena!"<br/><br/>The servant's voice sang throughout the main hall, announcing Caila's arrival to the von Haj Estate. Caila herself stood in the entry hall, looking around at the opulence laid before her. It was a stark change from the simple accommodations of the Temple. And a long way from the dirty streets where she grew up. She could feel the heads of the assembled peers of the Empire turn to look at her and the eyes of the nobility examining her. Most had respect or polite admiration for the paladin. Caila caught her mother's father pointedly ignoring her arrival, so Caila did him the same courtesy as she walked into the hall.<br/><br/>She was dressed in her full plate armor, the steel polished until it was shining purer than silver. A blood-red cape was attached at the shoulders, flowing behind her as she walked. At her side her enchanted sword resting in it's golden sheath. Black, polished military-style boots. And again, the pure white tabard with the blue design worn over the shining armor and belted at the waist by a brown leather belt with a pure gold buckle.<br/><br/>All things considered, Caila would much rather be attacking a Frost Giant stronghold in the far north. By herself.