Night had fallen, casting long shadows over the city as Missy wandered through the streets. The bustle of the day had given way to a quieter, more introspective atmosphere. Street lights flickered, casting pools of warm amber light on the cracked pavement. Missy, now familiar with some parts of the city, found herself drawn toward the more damaged areas, closer to the epicenter of the earthquake. The air was thick with the scent of dust and debris, a stark reminder of the recent disaster.

As she walked, her senses suddenly heightened, sending a shiver down her spine. She felt a strong magical presence, the strongest she had encountered since her escape. It seemed to emanate from a building that stood almost untouched amidst the ruins, its pristine façade a stark contrast to the surrounding devastation. Intrigued, she made her way toward it, her curiosity piqued and her heart racing with anticipation.

The building was grand, with towering columns and intricate stonework that gleamed under the silvery moonlight. Ornate carvings adorned the façade, telling stories of ancient myths and legends. As she approached, her footsteps echoing in the quiet night, she was stopped by a pair of stern-looking security guards. Their uniforms were immaculate, a symbol of order in the chaos of the earthquake's aftermath. "This is the capital building," one of them said, his voice gruff but not unkind. "The city council is hosting an invitation-only gathering tonight. I'm afraid we can't let you in without proper credentials."

Missy glanced at the building, then back at the guards, her eyes wide with wonder. "I see. I was just curious about how it survived the earthquake so well," she said, deciding not to draw too much attention to herself. "Thank you for the information. I'll be on my way."

As she turned to leave, she heard the click of hooves on pavement. She turned to see Aspen, looking elegant in a shimmering cocktail dress that accentuated her curves, clearly dressed for a fancy party. Her hair was styled in an intricate updo, and a delicate necklace adorned her neck. Aspen waved, her face lighting up with recognition. "I would have called out sooner, but I didn't know your name. It's wonderful to see you again!" she exclaimed, her voice warm and welcoming, carrying easily through the night air.

Missy smiled, feeling a surge of happiness at the familiar face. "You can call me Missy," she replied, her voice tinged with excitement at sharing this new part of herself.

Aspen returned the smile, her eyes twinkling with delight. "I like it. It suits you perfectly. What brings you here to this part of town? It's not exactly the safest area since the earthquake."

Missy gestured toward the imposing building behind them. "I noticed the building and was intrigued by its survival through the earthquake. It's quite remarkable." The guards explained what it was, and since I don't have an invite, I was just leaving. I didn't want to cause any trouble."

Aspen's eyes sparkled with amusement, a mischievous grin playing on her lips. "I could get you in, you know. I have some pull with the council. But since you're not dressed for the occasion, I wouldn't recommend it. These events can be quite stuffy and formal."

Missy's eyes lit up with excitement. Without hesitation, she snapped her fingers, and her simple clothes transformed in a shimmer of magic. In their place was an elegant cocktail dress designed to look like fire climbing up her body, with the top giving the impression of coiled smoke. The fabric seemed to move and dance with each of her movements, casting a warm glow around her. Aspen's eyes widened in surprise and admiration, her jaw dropping slightly. "That's... that's incredible! You look absolutely stunning. I've never seen anything quite like it."

Missy laughed softly, a melodious sound that seemed to brighten the night. "Thank you. I'm glad you like it."

Aspen gestured for Missy to stick close to her as they approached the entrance where guests were being granted entry. They waited briefly as a couple of guests ahead of them were let in, the guards scrutinizing their invitations carefully. When it was their turn, Aspen handed the guard her invitation with a confident smile. The guard gave them a quick inspection before nodding and stepping aside to let them through.

Inside, the capital building was even more magnificent than its exterior had suggested. The foyer was adorned with intricate mosaics depicting the city's history, and crystal chandeliers cast a warm, inviting glow over the polished marble floors. They were directed to a grand ballroom that took Missy's breath away. Tables of sumptuous food lined one side of the room, their aromas mingling enticingly in the air. A podium was set up on the far end, with seven ornate seats situated behind it, each one a work of art in its own right. The seats were currently filled with four women and three men, all unique in dress and appearance. Each looked as if a master sculptor had attempted to capture the essence of perfection, their features almost too beautiful to be real. They were conversing among themselves while the rest of the guests quietly mingled, waiting for their hosts to start the event.

Aspen leaned in and whispered to Missy as they entered, her breath warm against Missy's ear. "These people are most of the city's elite. Powerful, influential, and not to be underestimated. The event is meant to be an opportunity for the council to get their assistance with the recovery efforts. Usually, the chairman will address the guests, open things up for a Q&A, and then the council will mingle with the guests, and the real party starts. That's when the real deals are made and alliances are formed."

As Aspen finished her explanation, one of the four women stood and approached the podium. She had beautiful blonde hair that cascaded down her back in perfect waves, and vibrant blue eyes that seemed to glow with an inner light. Missy was entranced by her, feeling a strange pull toward this woman's aura of power and grace. She almost didn't hear Aspen whispering, her voice tinged with a mixture of awe and respect, "That woman at the podium is Rinale, a former Goddess of beauty. She's one of the most influential members of the council."

This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings.

Missy felt a strange connection to Rinale, her presence commanding the room effortlessly. The guests fell silent as Rinale began to speak, her voice melodic and soothing, yet carrying an undercurrent of strength and authority. "Esteemed guests, we are gathered here tonight in the wake of a great disaster. The earthquake has tested our city, but it has also revealed the strength and resilience of its people. In the face of adversity, we have come together, showing the true spirit of our community."

Missy listened intently, captivated by Rinale's words. She spoke with grace and authority, her every gesture exuding confidence and compassion. "Our task now is to rebuild and recover, to support those who have lost everything and to ensure our city emerges stronger than before. Your presence here tonight is a testament to your commitment to this cause, and we are grateful for your support in these trying times."

Rinale's eyes scanned the room, her gaze resting momentarily on Missy. For a brief moment, "We are honored to have such distinguished guests among us," Rinale continued, her voice carrying to every corner of the room. "Tonight, we ask for your support and your ideas to help us navigate the challenges ahead. Together, we can turn this tragedy into an opportunity for growth and renewal."

As Rinale continued to speak, outlining the council's initial plans for recovery and calling for unity, Missy felt a sense of purpose growing within her. She knew she had a role to play in the city's recovery, even if she wasn't quite sure what that role would be yet. When Rinale opened the floor for questions, several guests stepped forward, their voices filled with concern and determination. They asked about plans for rebuilding infrastructure, providing aid to those in need, and ensuring the safety of the city in the future.

Aspen nudged Missy gently, her voice low as she explained, "You see, this is where the real work begins. The council will take note of the suggestions and concerns, and then they'll start working on implementing them. It's a collaborative effort, but make no mistake, the council holds the real power here."

As the Q&A session came to an end, the council members began to mingle with the guests, and the atmosphere in the room shifted to a more relaxed and social one. The soft strains of classical music filled the air, providing a pleasant backdrop to the conversations.

Rinale, having noticed Missy in the crowd, seemed to take an interest in her. She made her way toward Missy, interacting with other guests along the way, her movements graceful and purposeful. When she reached them, Aspen introduced the two of them. "Missy, this is Rinale, one of our esteemed council members. Rinale, this is Missy, a new friend of mine."

Rinale smiled, her vibrant blue eyes sparkling with curiosity and something else Missy couldn't quite identify. "I'm glad you could make it, Aspen. How's your family? I trust they're well?"

Aspen nodded, smiling warmly, though Missy noticed a flicker of something - perhaps tension? - in her eyes. "They're around here somewhere. I'll have to find them before I leave. You know how these events can be, everyone scattered about."

Rinale's attention then turned fully to Missy, her gaze intense and searching. "I must say, I've never seen someone so striking. Your dress is quite remarkable. Are you from outside the city? I don't believe we've had the pleasure of meeting before."

Missy nodded, feeling of nervousness under Rinale's scrutiny. "Yes, I was imprisoned underground until recently. The earthquake... well, it changed things for me."

Rinale's expression grew concerned, her brow furrowing slightly. "Imprisoned? That's quite unusual. Why were you imprisoned, if you don't mind my asking?"

Missy shrugged, trying to appear nonchalant despite the weight of Rinale's gaze. "Most likely due to greed, jealousy, or a lust for power. My jailers didn't really take the time to explain why they were imprisoning me.

Rinale seemed to accept her answer, but Missy could see the suspicion lingering in her eyes. There was a sharpness to her gaze now, a calculating look that hadn't been there before. "Well, I'm glad you're free now. Our city welcomes all who seek a fresh start. I hope you'll find your place here."

With that, Rinale excused herself, moving on to mingle with other guests. As she walked away, Missy couldn't shake the feeling that she had just been thoroughly assessed, though for what purpose, she wasn't sure.

Aspen led Missy around the party, introducing her to more influential figures. Each person they met had a story to tell, a vision for the city's future, or a concern to voice. Missy listened intently to their stories and plans for the city's recovery, feeling more connected to this new world with each conversation. She found herself fascinated by the intricate web of relationships and alliances that seemed to underpin the city's social structure.

Eventually, they found Aspen's mother, a striking woman with dark hair streaked with silver and a regal presence that commanded attention. Her eyes, the same shade of green as Aspen's, held years of wisdom and a hint of mischief. "Missy, this is my mother," Aspen said, her voice filled with a complex mix of emotions. "She's one of the city's greatest musical talents."

Missy could see the resemblance between mother and daughter, and the pride in Aspen's eyes, but she also noticed a hint of discomfort, a tension that spoke of unresolved issues. "It's an honor to meet you," Missy said, bowing slightly, genuinely impressed by the woman's aura of talent and grace.

After a brief conversation about music and the city's cultural recovery, Aspen's mother excused herself to mingle with other guests, leaving Aspen and Missy alone once more. Aspen turned to Missy, a look of concern crossing her face. "I'm ready to go. What about you? Where are you staying? I just realized I never asked."

Missy looked a bit embarrassed, suddenly aware of how unprepared she was for life in this new world. "I was just planning to wander the streets until morning before heading to the shop since I don't have a place to stay. I hadn't really thought it through, to be honest."

Aspen looked shocked and chided herself, shaking her head. "That's no way for you to spend the night, especially with the city in its current state. You can stay at the shop with me. I have a spare room that's much more comfortable than the streets."

Missy smiled gratefully, touched by Aspen's kindness. "Thank you, Aspen. I appreciate it more than you know. Your generosity means a lot to me."

As they left the capital building and made their way through the quiet streets, the sounds of the party fading behind them.