The 50th concert of the Daerlynn Concert Series
As transcribed by Mykk Dalys
It has been 372 years, 213 days since the Victory of Lanival the Redeemer.
It is the 6th month of Arhat the Fire Lion in the year of the Bronze Wyvern.
It is currently summer and it is night.
You have a feeling it's past the Anlas of Anduwen.
The clear summertime sky shines with many twinkling stars.
[Arthe Hollow Inn, Common Room]
The room is filled with jovial conversation, laughter, much toasting and a layer of smoky haze. Guests of all races mingle at the long, low tables. A Halfling holding a very large mug of beer jumps in front of the stone fireplace, lets out a whoop and bursts into a spontaneous song. Daisy Burdock, the inn's waitress, maneuvers adeptly through the crowd carrying a tray of mugs and occasionally glancing out the window. A menu is posted at the archway next to a prominent sign. You also see a shot glass, a shot glass, a shot glass, a sturdy backpack, a stone seat, a wooden menuboard, some wooden stairs, an open doorway, and a polished wooden bar.
Our lovely host:
Daerlynn Soulmyste-Falconsong of Elanthia, a Human Bard
Performers, in order of appearance:
Bard Valren Havero of Elanthia, a Human
Dancer Xaphira Vonara, an Elothean Bard
Katrinai Dainaan of Elanthia, an Elf
Bard Pielle Ru'benta-Dase of the Tavern Troupe Performing Order, a Human
Warrior Poet Xanzie Nikatime of the Tavern Troupe Performing Order, an Elven Bard
Poet Firannion Matrevyn of Elanthia, a Human Bard
Daerlynn Soulmyste-Falconsong of Elanthia, a Human Bard
Storyteller Khestryl Nesbitt, an Elf
Niteshiver Vodou, a Human Bard
Troubadour Dewsong deRosa, an Elothean Bard
Agraynel Rosmar-Lambelle, an Elf
Taleweaver Dreamheart Delaevan of Elanthia, a Human Bard
The longest guest list I've seen at a player-run event, or as Dewsong put it, "I think there are more of us here than at the meeting..."
Reveler Ailyssa Golden-Hair, a Human
Akhahn A'suu, a S'Kra Mur
Prestidigitator Anatashai De'Talon of Elanthia, a Prydaen Warrior Mage
Arnath Khalenwolf, a Rakash
Athesa Trianny, a Prydaen
Athiana Basarona of the Order of the White Rose, a Human
Auriol D'Pre, a Halfling Bard
Buffoon Bernart de'Ventadorn, an Elven Bard
Bethany Bryce of Elanthia, a Human Empath
Brikmar Bor'Nor of the Order of the White Rose, an Elothean
Reeve Candidus Custos of Zoluren, a Human Paladin
Field Medic Carolinea, a Rakash (missing, sorry)
Mercenary Cimbaa Paww'Tender of The Locksmith Union, a Prydaen
Coroman Crea'trag of Elanthia, a Kaldaran Warrior Mage
Cynaera Le'Domina, a Rakash
Darkskye (missing, sorry)
Digmo McDog, an Elothean
Tale Singer Donalisa DeLondra of the Tavern Troupe Performing Order, a Prydaen Bard
Wordsmith Elenelear Alfirin-tauron of Elanthia, an Elven Bard
Eleneri Pen'neth, an Elf (missing, sorry)
Ellayana DivineDiva, an Elf
Fazehund Misond, a S'Kra Mur Bard
Busker Felara Bencutro, a Halfling
Warrior Poet Freye Miststalker, an Elven Bard
Feral Fyiona Lokichylde, a Human
Gembrick Dakhura (missing, sorry)
Gernish Urteh, a Dwarven Barbarian
Glaerith Daelle (missing, sorry)
Guaeru Roatia, a Rakash
Gulliver VonDeverone, a Human
Gweneyth Merjauth of Elanthia, an Elven Bard
Hendursar Arudaz, a Human Bard
Gypsy Heston Falconsong, an Elothean
Hurkaprat Olsemeln, an Elven Bard
Bard D'Zoluren Ilaina De'swan, an Elf
Jokester Inessa d'Larcy of the Tavern Troupe Performing Order, an Elven Bard
Bard Isembard Isimbard, a Human
Isyviel Fadrielia, an Elf
Jastima Lautari, a Human
Jezsa (missing, sorry)
Mediator Jolina Desmenes of Elanthia, an Elf
Joy Chanticleer, an Elothean
Diviner Jynisis (missing, sorry)
Magess Kaelae D'Arvera of Zoluren, an Elven Warrior Mage
Karinnaa, a Prydaen (missing, sorry)
Kasandra Rienhard of Elanthia, a Human Bard
Sister Keladra (missing, sorry)
Keshina Sin'Fyre, a Prydaen Cleric
Prankster Kesstrell Sagbotttom, a Halfling Bard
Keton Laske, an Elf
Philosopher Khaman Vairson of the Compact, an Elven Moon Mage
Swashbuckler Khory Deshah of Ratha, a Human Bard
Empath Khrystyn Lilyhaven of Aesry Surlaenis'a, an Elf
Kilan Scafdis of Elanthia, a S'Kra Mur
Kitarro Silkenstar, an Elf
Dreamweaver Kithria Dustdanser, an Elf
Krombacher (missing, sorry)
Larinath Kreckinash, an Elothean
Dancer Larisah Darwenwood, an Elven Bard
Larrah Wythern (missing, sorry)
Theurgist Lathaliu Ewoenyn, an Elothean Cleric
Lionjester DiPanthero of the Order of the Dragon Shield, a Human
Lokinim Valinasha
Ludovico Il'Bavaro, a Human
Luxthor Darkmalvitch
Markhor Sculpin of The Locksmith Union, a S'Kra Mur
Poet Mckatelee Starryskye of Elanthia, an Elven Bard
Melissande de-Ceisy of M'Riss, a Human
Mhalacious Sraan-Hav'roth, a S'Kra Mur
War Drummer Mirussa Idwyn, a Halfling Bard
Mykk Dalys, a Halfling
Nomie Whyspen, a Dwarf (missing, sorry)
Paschein WellBorne, an Elothean
Pyrolian Fyrshad of Therengia, a Kaldar
Explorer Quelgash (missing, sorry)
Rawb Strycker, an Elf
Elementress Rayormy Bowstole of Elanthia, a Prydaen
Troubadour Raziaar Dvinegus, a Human
Herald Roboson Cateater of the Tavern Troupe Performing Order, a Human
GameMaster Rottcloar Sepulture, a Human Warrior Mage
Empath Rowynn Evolutio, an Elf
Roxana Bloodlan of the Tavern Troupe Performing Order, a Human
Rurbire Fainul, a Kaldaran Warrior Mage
Herbalist Rynedel Tallorwen, an Elven Empath
Saurthhan Sh'tarhh of Zoluren, a S'Kra Mur
Spellsword Seolfor LightningTouch, a Human
Disciple Sharkran Fuzzyhead of Elanthia, a Human Cleric
Shavay Silvamon, an Elothean
Fortuneteller Sirrena Pasqueum, an Elven Moon Mage
Novice Sundur Heft, a Prydaen Bard
Conjurer Sylantra Softgrass (missing, sorry)
Tabby Dawndreamer, a Human Bard
Tandek Fersineh, an Elothean Craftsman
Tashya Talyonoushka, a Prydaen
Lookout Tsarenzi Muinoskyl of Elanthia, a S'Kra Mur Ranger
Tsaru Chovexani, an Elf
Storyteller Vank Von'Ardor, a Prydaen
Adept Windreaper Verjigorm of Ilithi, an Elf
Vagabond Woha Neshoba of Elanthia, an Elven Bard
Warrior Wryten Wolfskien, a Dwarven Barbarian
Novice Xek D'Invilliers, a Human Barbarian
Novice Zaviera Nineviel, a Human Warrior Mage
Dancer Zazu Turning'leaf of the Order of the Theren Guard, a Prydaen
Valren: Silvyfrost's Reply
Xaphira: "...true freedom..."
Katrinai: A Bard I Be!
Pielle: How NOT to be a Bard
Xanzie: Bard Power
Firannion: The Healer of Gintheru
Daerlynn: "mime in the box"
Khestryl: "tale of a musician"
Niteshiver: "let me say I am a bard"
Dewsong: Bardic Toast
Agraynel: "observations"
Dreamheart: "song for siryn"
Daerlynn: A Time to Remember
Daerlynn recites:
"Everyone.... I am putting a backpack on the floor. Thanks to Dewsong, there are lots of drinks in there. Drink up!"
Felara sings in an alto voice:
"Thanks for the lass who brought tha drinks
An thanks to the fella too
thanks to all who brought tha food
I et it all--thank you!"
People are beginning to drift in the general direction of Arthe Dale. One young woman pulls at her companion's sleeve. "Hurry up!" she hisses. "We want to get a good seat for the concert! The Arthe Hollow Inn is big, and I want to sit up front!" Her companion, a tall young Elf, chuckles, "We have a few roisaen yet, dear," but he obligingly hurries his steps to match hers.
Dewsong recites:
"And I hope those amoung us that insist on being dry appreciate the great suffering I took upon myself to grab non-alcoholic drinks as well..."
Daerlynn recites:
"Hello, everyone! I want to get started in two or three minutes, so if everyone can finish up the greetings, and give the performers the respect they deserve..."
Daerlynn recites:
"Thank you all for coming!"
Daerlynn recites:
"I would ask that you would please keep all distractions down to a minimum, it is a large crowd here tonight, and they add up!"
Daerlynn recites:
"And some of our performers are nervous!"
Several Halfling men stride purposefully up to the fireplace. They deftly climb atop one another to form a tower of Halflings. The man at the top grabs a beer mug from the mantel and passes it down. They tumble off of each other and proudly walk back to their table.
Mykk gets an impish expression on his face, and lets out a hearty cheer.
(Xanzie goes over and sits with the Halflings, hoping for a free beer.)
Mykk offers Xanzie a flagon of Glythtide's Favor.
Daerlynn recites:
"We have a rowdy halfling party over in the corner, they are here for every concert. Once in a while they get out of hand... but... you know, you cant knock a loyal audience."
Daerlynn recites:
"Besides, Daisy Burdock DOES have her charms."
Daerlynn recites:
"Ok, once more, I want to thank everyone for coming here tonight."
Daerlynn recites:
"I am hoping all of the performers show, but.. we have a lot of them!"
Daerlynn recites:
"Tonight, we have a theme, of celebrating the tradition and soul of being Bards."
Daerlynn recites:
"This seemed fitting for the occasion... the 50th concert in this series!"
Daerlynn recites:
"I am honored that the very first performer in this series, way back on December 2, 2000 is here tonight to sing once more. Dreamheart!"
Daerlynn recites:
"I know you didnt come to hear me speak, but i would be remiss if I did not mention one other thing."
Daerlynn recites:
"There is one person that has been a huge supporter of these concerts since the very beginning, and I want to acknowledge him tonight."
Dewsong grins at Mykk.
Mykk hums to himself.
Daerlynn recites:
"Let's hear it for Mykk!"
Daerlynn recites:
"There are a number of bards of all ages tonight performing, some telling history, or what it means to be a Bard, or of various aspects of bardic life."
Daerlynn recites:
"So let's hear it for our first performer, Valren!"
Valren recites:
"Before I begin my offering to this gathering there is something I would like to say."
Valren recites:
"Firstly given the events that currently afflict the Bard's Guild I cannot but think that this concert is most timely."
Valren recites:
"And secondly I'd like to thank DaerIynn for doing me the honour of inviting me to contribute to this concert amongst such an august line up."
Valren smiles as he bows to the other bards participating in the concert
Valren winks at Khestryl.
Daerlynn curtsies gracefully to Valren.
Valren sheepishly says, "well thats got that out the way now for the song, a piece entitled "Silvyfrost's Reply""
Valren coughs.
Valren cheerfully sings in a tenor voice:
"He'd left his home in Kaerna, said goodbye to Mom
His only wish to be a bard, to Crossing he was come
So with his bones and lute, and some of his own songs
He'd travel round round the Realm, righting all the wrongs "
Valren wryly sings in a tenor voice:
"His jaw dropped to the floor, when Silvyfrost he met
She told him he would have to hunt, that he knew nothing yet
"But", he cried "I nere did dream, that bards used blunt or blade
She said "go read the histories, find how bards are made"
Valren cheerfully sings in a tenor voice:
"So seeking out that room where bardic books are found
He read about the Enchantes, and how power's found
"Grief" he cried, here's a thing, magic must I master"
The reading of the next few tomes, made his heart beat faster"
Valren quietly sings in a tenor voice:
"He read of Gintheru, of Little Wren and more
Dragon priests and brave Siryn, and all she had fought for
Wanderers and Minstrels, Historians, Jesters too
Romantics and Performers, Warriors of the blue"
Valren cheerfully sings in a tenor voice:
"Dawn saw him finished reading, eyes all sore and red
And filled to brim with bardic lore, to Silvyfrost he fled
"now travel you to Haven, you'll be there for a while
There's a parchment you should read" said the leader with a smile"
Valren playfully sings in a tenor voice:
"In Haven guild a parchment, as he had been told
It seem to tell of books and lore left by bards of old
But the entrance to this trove, was by magic bound
But nods and winks from older bards disclosed it's secret sound"
Valren cheerfully sings in a tenor voice:
"He cheered for the Phoenix, as she won the day
He'd sobbed back in Crossing when he'd read of Aurilae
He learnt of standard bearers, and the role they fill
And of aiding empaths, with song and herbs that heal"
Valren regretfully sings in a tenor voice:
"He read that some might scorn, if arms became his aim
Of survival skills to practice, of lore that he must gain
And blanching at himself, of what he had first thought
He left the guild of Haven, 'twas Silvyfrost he sought"
Valren hauntingly sings in a tenor voice:
"I've read about the bards, this most diverse of guilds
And I've noted of their dying, in cities, battle fields
Of willing sacrifices some of them have made
And though all bards may differ, all must use blunt or blade"
Valren quietly sings in a tenor voice:
"So supplicant am I, let me stay a bard
I'll keep true to bardic ways, from dessert down to Shard
"then welcome to your guild house" was Silvyfrost's reply
And as he passed the portal a wetness marked her eye"
Valren bows.
Daerlynn recites:
"Next we have one of the two Xa bards tonight, one I have known for a very long time. Let's hear it for Xaphira!"
Xaphira recites:
"Well, we've already heard one piece about taking up arms..."
Xaphira recites:
"This one is more about laying them down again."
Xaphira recites:
"One of my least-performed stories."
Xaphira grins.
Xaphira recites:
"This is a story written of true freedom...I was in a tavern, where I saw a young woman..."
Xaphira says, "I remember watching her take a deep breath, gazing out a window, before turning her attention to me, leaning in closely."
Xaphira recites:
"You say you've not seen me much around here? Aye, I've...found something that keeps me away...I'll tell you about it, if you like."
Xaphira says, "The woman gazed over her wine glass, searching my face, then smiling softly."
Xaphira recites:
"It must have been the glimmer in the trees...it caught my eye. And I swore I saw movements, and heard this strange, but beautiful, tinkling sound. Now, I've never been one to stray from the safety of the trade routes, but...well, you understand, I'm sure...I had to see this."
Xaphira says, "I smiled in wonder at her recollection of the events."
Xaphira recites:
"I heard delicate laughter, like the sound of tiny bells chiming.
"Play for us," a voice said.
You can imagine my reaction...I looked everywhere, but there was nobody to be found. I felt light, dizzy, but I got my faenellica out of my case.
"Surely you cannot play with that armor on," the voice said."
Xaphira says, "She smiled slowly, nodding, as if remembering something forgotten."
Xaphira recites:
"And of course, I couldn't. The chain was heavy, it felt awkward to even hold my instrument. So I removed my coif, my gauntlets, and my chain robe, leaving them beside me, in case I needed them quickly. And then...well, I suppose I was not often accustomed to the feel of the cool night air without armor weighing me down. I started to play, feeling more light and alive than I remember ever feeling."
Xaphira says, "Pausing, she gazed off again before returning her attention to me."
Xaphira recites:
"I played as I had never played before...sang as I never had...little lights surrounded me, whirling and flitting in time to my song. It felt so dreamlike, you understand..."
Xaphira recites:
""Dance with us," the voice said again, echoing around me. I tried a few steps, but felt my balance thrown slightly off.
"Surely you cannot dance carrying all those weapons!"
Of course, they were right again...my scabbard made my actions awkward. I was used to fighting, not dancing, with them. So I removed it, laying it down with my armor, and danced...
I suppose I had never danced without at least one blade on."
Xaphira recites:
"I spun, I laughed, sang, and played, and the lights..they had shimmery little wings, I could now see...spun and laughed that soft, musical tinkling laughter..."
Xaphira recites:
""Fly with us!"
"I am but an Elothean," I replied, "I cannot fly."
"Surely not, carrying that burden!""
Xaphira says, "She paused again, gazing at me."
Xaphira recites:
"By now, I was enchanted by them...they made me feel so light...I removed my backpack, pouches, cases, all that I carried with me, laying them down by my weapons. I felt giddy...I breathed deeper, leapt higher in my dance...I had never felt what it was to carry nothing with you. I laughed again, and felt my feet leave the ground. I remember glimpsing something...for a moment...but followed their bell-like laughter, joining with them in an aerial dance, spiraling upwards..."
Xaphira says, "The woman smiled hauntingly at me, transifixing and holding me with her eyes, and slowly continued."
Xaphira recites:
"I have heard it said that a passing trader who once knew me found my body there the next morning, surrounded by my armor, weapons, belongings. What he must have thought of someone laying down all that protected them so close to areas where reavers roamed, I'll never know. He did find it odd, though, that among several valuable things he knew I owned, the only thing missing was my faenellica."
Xaphira recites:
"I shouldn't expect him to understand, though. Nobody travels this life without armor to shield them from all hurt, weapons to lash out at others, and burdens to bear...
But without these, my friend, you can sing, you can dance, and you can fly."
Xaphira says, "She smiled mysteriously, stood, and walked towards the door, carrying her faenellica. She vanished--in her place I saw a tiny light...and the sound of tinkling laughter, like tiny bells."
(Xaphira gazes off as the story ends.)
Daerlynn recites:
"Thank you Xaphira! There are not enough stories told in the realms today..."
Daerlynn recites:
"As I said earlier, we have bards of all ages performing tonight. Some of them have been around quite awhile.... but, of course, I am not naming any names..."
Daerlynn recites:
"But we also have a very young bard, just a few months in the guild I believe?"
Daerlynn recites:
"But still, a true bard, with the heart and soul of a bard. Lets hear it for Katrinai!"
Katrinai stands up.
Katrinai wobbles, looking a bit faint.
Katrinai beams!
Markhor recites:
"And newest member of the Troupe, too!"
Katrinai walks to the front of the room beginning to strum a soft, playful tune on her mandolin.
Katrinai smiles out to the audience with an impish look.
Katrinai recites:
"I was once told I would never make a Bard. Well this is my lighthearted response to that. My little ditty tonight is entitled, "A Bard I Be!" by Katrinai Dainaan."
Katrinai sings in a soprano voice:
"A bard be I
A bard I be
To fill your mind
With history. "
Katrinai sings in a soprano voice:
"Of knights I tell
And dragons, too
A battle, Hark!
That's what I do."
Katrinai sings in a soprano voice:
"The flame and sword
Around each wove
In the lizard's
Massive cove."
Katrinai gets a razor-edged dueling iltesh from inside her leather sheath.
(Katrinai slices her elven sword at the dragon.)
Katrinai sings in a soprano voice:
"You wish to know
Who won the day?
Ah, then, m'friend,
You'll have to stay!"
Katrinai smiles with a no-no motion of her finger.
Katrinai sings in a soprano voice:
"I have but lots
Of these great tales
As numerous
As dancers' veils!"
(Katrinai dances a few steps raising her skirt just barely showing her ankles.)
Katrinai sings in a soprano voice:
"Or howabout
A princess fair
Locked deep within
A mage's liar?"
Katrinai sings in a soprano voice:
"Her only hope
A lover's quest
Both far and wide
A chance, at best."
(Katrinai dramatically folds her hands over her heart with a long drawn out sigh.)
Katrinai sings in a soprano voice:
"Again you ask
Me to foretell
The ending of
This tale as well?"
Katrinai sings in a soprano voice:
"Oh no, think not -
I'm just a bard.
And as for gold -
A dim reward--"
(Katrinai jingles an almost empty coin purse.)
Katrinai sings in a soprano voice:
"When I see plain
Upon your face
Reactions to
My trade-in-space."
Katrinai sighs.
Katrinai sings in a soprano voice:
"And so, my friend,
Do listen well
For I, you know,
Have much to tell!"
Katrinai sings in a soprano voice:
"A bard I am
A bard am I
Music, Laughter
Shall fill the sky!"
Katrinai recites:
"Even if I stumble and fall I shall repeat and tell of all."
Katrinai blushes, the tips of her ears turning a delicate scarlet hue.
Katrinai takes a seat.
Daerlynn recites:
"Thank you Katrinai!!"
Daerlynn recites:
"Next, we have another youner bard... the dimpled one, Pielle!"
Pielle laughs!
Pielle stands up.
Pielle just tickled Daerlynn, who laughs and returns the favor.
Pielle smiles at Hurkaprat, revealing the BIGGEST DIMPLES YOU'VE EVER SEEN!
Pielle clears her throat.
Pielle hums an innocent tune.
Pielle exclaims, "Ok!"
Pielle grins, revealing her dimples.
Pielle says, "I would like to first give thanks to Daerlynn who has put this all together. You are my friend, my mentor, and will always be like a sister to me."
Pielle pulls Daerlynn to her in a tight hug.
Pielle beams at Daerlynn!
Pielle exclaims, "Without further ado... a HAPPY song!!"
Pielle excitedly exclaims, "Alrighty, every Bard in this here room, I want you all to sing with me. Come on, now!"
Pielle says, "This is "How NOT to be a Bard" By Pielle Ru'benta-Dase."
Pielle winks.
Pielle sings in a soprano voice:
"Healing sickies with your hands,
Using magic all you can!
Curing invalids for nominal fees.
I will tip you from my own jar,
And I may say, "Your life is hard!"
We all know that's not how to be a bard!"
Pielle swings her cotton skirt from side to side, the ribbons fluttering on the air.
A chorus of voices join with Pielle's leading soprano as she sings:
"We all know that's NOT how to be a Bard!"
Pielle sings in a soprano voice:
"Playing with your pet raccoon,
Saying city folks are loons!
Helping you and I to climb a better tree.
While they're swimming into Shard,
I may say, "Your life is hard!"
We all know that's not how to be a bard!"
Pielle does an amazing array of backflips and handsprings!
A chorus of voices join with Pielle's leading soprano as she sings:
"We all know that's NOT how to be a Bard!"
Pielle sings in a soprano voice:
"Always breaking silly rules,
And then rippin' off some fools!
Selling lockpicks that "never break for me!"
When you get caught by a guard,
I may say, "Your life is hard!"
We all know that's not how to be a bard!"
Pielle pulls on her leathers showing that there is nothing up her sleeve.
Pielle pulls a coin from mid-air and flips it! It disappears before you can catch it.
A chorus of voices join with Pielle's leading soprano as she sings:
"We all know that's NOT how to be a Bard!"
Pielle sings in a soprano voice:
"While you're fixing all lost souls,
Filling up memory holes!
And always saving deaders on your knees,
You think, "get favors, you retard!"
I may say, "Your life is hard!"
We all know that's not how to be a bard!"
Pielle whistles a rapid succession of notes in your direction ending on a low note.
A chorus of voices join with Pielle's leading soprano as she sings:
"We all know that's NOT how to be a Bard!"
Pielle sings in a soprano voice:
"Breaking kegs with your own hands,
Proving "I can be a man!"
Saying, "magic is not the way for me!"
When you're beating off the guard,
I may say, "Your life is hard!"
We all know that's not how to be a bard!"
Pielle stands on her tippy-toes and attempts to pirouette!
Pielle falls over.
Pielle sighs.
Pielle says, "Well... we can't ALL be dancers."
Pielle grins like an idiot.
Pielle rolls around on the ground. Typical.
A chorus of voices join with Pielle's leading soprano as she sings:
"We all know that's NOT how to be a Bard!"
Pielle stretches one arm along her side and props up her head with the other hand.
Pielle says, "Ok, enough of this.. this song has gone on WAY too long.."
Pielle chortles softly at some secret joke.
Pielle sings in a soprano voice:
"There are oh, so many guilds,
But I'm sure you've had your fill!
And cuz I'm not really the type to sing and flee,
When some day I am a star,
You will say, "Her life ain't hard!"
But of course! That's cuz I chose to be a bard!"
Pielle leaps to her feet!
Pielle attempts to strike a grand pose and winces slightly. Muttering a few choice phrases under her breath, she shifts her padded leathers slightly and takes a moment to test the new fit before once again flourishing her hands and achieving the intended dramatic pose.
Pielle sinks into a deep curtsy.
Pielle curtsies.
Pielle says, "Thank you"
Pielle smiles, revealing dimples in her cheeks.
Daerlynn recites:
"Next we have our second Xa bard tonight... let's hear it for Xanzie!"
Xanzie hiccups.
Xanzie blushes, the tips of her ears turning a delicate scarlet hue.
Xanzie stands up.
Xanzie bows.
Xanzie blushes, the tips of her ears turning a delicate scarlet hue.
Xanzie wobbles, looking a bit faint.
Xanzie says, "This seems to be a night of Bardic Pride songs.. so...."
Xanzie exclaims, "Here's another!"
Xanzie says, "This is called Bard Power. Feel free to sing along."
Xanzie winks.
(Xanzie swings her arms and marches around in a circle.)
(Xanzie stops and faces you and gives you a friendly nod.)
Xanzie cheerfully sings in a mezzo-soprano voice:
"A bard I am, of some repute
I'm bright, polite and brave
I admit to flirts and smoochies too
But not too much, boys, behave."
Xanzie winks.
Xanzie cheerfully sings in a mezzo-soprano voice:
"For many years I've taken note
Of the deeds and words of all
Villians and heros, lovers all told
I've seen empires rise and fall"
Xanzie matter-of-factly sings in a mezzo-soprano voice:
"In the beginning, there was light and heat
There were trees and flowers faire.
How do we know? Who recorded it?
Guess what, a bard was there!"
Xanzie grins like an idiot.
Xanzie loudly sings in a mezzo-soprano voice:
"We're all about rage!
We're all about calm.
Just don't mess with our resolve
Take a step back and feel the glory
Of the awesome power of the bard."
Xanzie loudly exclaims, "Sing with me for the next chorus!"
(Xanzie marches around in a circle!)
Xanzie loudly sings in a mezzo-soprano voice:
"You may think we're just song and dance
Our sense of time and tune are keen
We are masters of our instruments
And we keep them, oh so, clean."
Xanzie recites:
"WASH! RINSE! REPEAT!"
Xanzie sings in a mezzo-soprano voice:
"Our voices are a dangerous foe
And we wield our mighty tool
Do not stand against us
Or be prepared to look a fool"
Xanzie winks.
Xanzie sings in a mezzo-soprano voice:
"In the field we move cohesively
With sword and bow and sound
We rise to each occasion met
And keep the bastards down!"
Xanzie leaps up into the air, her hand outstretched to the ceiling!
Xanzie recites:
"BARD POWER!!"
A chorus of voices join with Xanzie's leading mezzo-soprano as she sings:
"We're all about rage!
We're all about calm.
Jue don't rain on our parade.
Take a step back and feel the glory
Of the awesome power of the bard!"
Xanzie loudly sings in a mezzo-soprano voice:
"Some people are trying to bring us down
And turn us from within
Hear me now, deceptive ones
I love them all like kin."
Xanzie shakes her fist!
Xanzie cheerfully sings in a mezzo-soprano voice:
"Oh, a bard am I. A bard I'll be
No piece of paper will change that fact
'Cause a bard is made true in the heart
It has nothing to do with tact"
Xanzie scoffs.
Xanzie hums to herself.
Xanzie confidently sings in a mezzo-soprano voice:
"Don't twist our purpose, we know it well
Live proudly and play hard
When we approach you, shout it out!
What am I? I'm a BARD!"
A chorus of voices join with Xanzie's leading mezzo-soprano as she sings:
"BARD POWER!"
Xanzie recites:
"We're all about rage."
A chorus of voices join with Xanzie's leading mezzo-soprano as she sings:
"WE'RE ALL ABOUT RAGE!"
Xanzie recites:
"We're all about calm."
A chorus of voices join with Xanzie's leading mezzo-soprano as she sings:
"WE'RE ALL ABOUT CALM!"
Xanzie recites:
"Just don't rain on our parade."
A chorus of voices join with Xanzie's leading mezzo-soprano as she sings:
"WASH! RINSE! REPEAT!"
A chorus of voices join with Xanzie's leading mezzo-soprano as she sings:
"Our comraderie and our unity
Is the awesome power of the bard!"
A chorus of voices join with Xanzie's leading mezzo-soprano as she sings:
"BARD POWER!"
Xanzie raises her chin slightly in a show of defiance.
Xanzie bows.
Xanzie bows.
(Xanzie applauds to her chorus of BARDS!)
Xanzie hugs Daerlynn, who wraps her arms around Xanzie with a warm smile.
Xanzie takes a seat near Raziaar.
Xanzie pulls Raziaar close in a slow, lingering kiss.
Daerlynn recites:
"Next, we come to someone whom I have not heard sing in much too long. I miss her, dearly."
Daerlynn recites:
"Let's hear it for Firannion!"
Firannion flirts with Daerlynn. Daerlynn smiles demurely, giving Firannion her full attention.
Firannion grins.
Firannion takes a sip of her double-bock.
Firannion says, "I can't play until I finish my double-bock."
Firannion frets.
Roxana exclaims, "Guzzle!"
Firannion takes a sip of her double-bock.
Mykk lets out a hearty cheer for Firannion!
Sylantra exclaims, "Guzzle!"
Firannion takes a sip of her double-bock.
Athesa chants:
"Chug Chug Chug!"
Melissande says to Firannion, "bottoms up hon"
Mykk says, "I could hold it for you."
Khestryl begins chortling at Firannion.
Hendursar exclaims, "chug!"
Firannion guzzles down some of her double-bock and then smacks her lips and wipes them with her sleeve.
Athesa ducks her head.
Mykk hums to himself.
Xaphira chuckles.
Kithria exclaims, "Show 'em how a bard drinks!"
Firannion smacks her lips.
Firannion says, "Okay..."
Firannion plucks at the strings of her mahogany psaltery, listening intently.
Firannion plucks at the strings of her mahogany psaltery, listening intently.
Firannion says, "I want to dedicate this performance to Dreamie, who gave me one of my first opportunities to perform in public."
Firannion curtsies to Dreamheart.
Dreamheart looks at Firannion and blushes.
Firannion says, "That was a looooong time ago."
Dreamheart says, "Not THAT long."
Dreamheart glances at Firannion.
Dreamheart winks.
Daerlynn says, "*I* didn't name names..."
Daerlynn hums an innocent tune.
Firannion says, "And also to Daer, with thanks, for reviving the concert tradition and keeping it alive here in Arthe."
Daerlynn smiles at Firannion.
Firannion curtsies to Daerlynn.
Daerlynn blushes a bright red color.
Firannion smiles with the relaxed confidence of a seasoned professional as she leans one booted foot on a low stool and fine-tunes her instrument.
Firannion says, "In my wanderings as a collector of folklore, I've discovered that midwives are one of the richest sources of traditional material. I try to seek them out wherever I go, and ask what ancient songs and tales they preserve."
Firannion plucks at the strings of her mahogany psaltery, listening intently.
Firannion says, "On a visit to Therengia some years ago, I met an Elven midwife of venerable age and sharp memory who claimed that her mother had known one of the greatest bards of all time."
Firannion says, "His name is proverbial among our guild, and we all know how to hum a happy melody of his, but few seem to know much of his history."
Firannion ponders her fingering as she quietly begins to pick out a simple but mesmerizing pattern.
Firannion says, "Perhaps I can help rectify that now. This is the story that the midwife told me, as I have set it in verse."
Firannion takes a deep breath as if about to start singing, then interrupts herself as if she had just thought of something.
Firannion says, "Incidentally, it also attempts to explain the origin of the enchante that we call Meraud's Blessing. Today we play it on stringed or percussion instruments, but the legend tells that once, and once only, it was permitted by the god to be sung."
Firannion clears her throat.
Firannion says, "So without further ado, I give you..."The Healer of Gintheru"."
Firannion sings in a soprano voice:
"In Langenfirth, where I had my birth
Lived a crone of the healing ways
Of Elvenkind, she could call to mind
The heroes of elder days"
Firannion lets an incipient melody rise to the surface, inspiring yet soothing, which you soon begin to think of as the Empath's Theme.
Firannion sings in a soprano voice:
"With many a tale she would regale
Her listeners old and young
And a sigh or two for Gintheru
The bard of the silken tongue"
Firannion sings in a soprano voice:
"I'd sit at her feet in Summer's heat
And when Winter's gales increased
To hear her recall the rise and fall
Of the dreadful Dragon Priests"
Firannion sings in a soprano voice:
"It came to pass, when she was a lass
As pretty as she was poor
A lad came oft to her parents' croft
Determined to be her wooer"
Firannion subtly introduces a rhythmic line in the bass strings whose gentle repetition suggests someone steady and dependable: the Cleric's Theme.
Firannion sings in a soprano voice:
"For public gaze, in those perilous days
He traveled the tinker's road
But secretly, for fear of Dzree
He was pledged to serve Meraud"
Firannion sings in a soprano voice:
"Beside her fire this itinerant friar
Courted her well and long
Her heart near won, but all was undone
By a bard's enticing song"
Firannion now begins to weave in the Bard's Theme: a flashier figure, like a golden thread running through a dark tapestry.
Firannion sings in a soprano voice:
"One Winter's night to her fireside bright
Strayed a minstrel of far-flung fame
Seeking shelter from storm, both dry and warm
And Gintheru was his name"
Firannion sings in a soprano voice:
"From tavern to town he bore tidings around
With music his way he paid
For a song and a tale he earned bread, cheese and ale
And the heart of an empath maid"
Firannion sings in a soprano voice:
"As he wandered away on the following day
He promised her he would return
When Summer was done, and the harvest begun
And the first leaves beginning to turn"
Firannion modulates into a minor key version of the Cleric's Theme, creating a sense of unease.
Firannion sings in a soprano voice:
"When her cleric called, she stammered and stalled
And he wondered what made her strange
But he prayed and he swore his god before
That his love would outlast the change"
Firannion sings in a soprano voice:
"Spring came and passed, then Summer at last
And her days seemed weary and long
Though she saw no trace of Gintheru's face
In the tavern she heard a new song"
Firannion shifts back into the Bard's Theme, this time at a more jagged, menacing tempo.
Firannion sings in a soprano voice:
"It made mockery of the cult of Dzree
And its singing was swiftly banned
But all who did hark said it bore the mark
Of the silken Gintheru's hand"
Firannion sings in a soprano voice:
"With Autumn's last leaf came news of great grief
To the lovelorn empath's ears:
Of Gintheru ta'en, to be tortured and slain
Confirming her worst fears"
Firannion softens the harsh chords into a more poignant mood as the Cleric's Theme wells up once again.
Firannion sings in a soprano voice:
"That cleric so good gave what comfort he could
And in time she accepted his ring
He eased her despair with tenderest care
And she promised they'd wed in the Spring"
Firannion abruptly turns the Bard's Theme into a halting, macabre march that makes your skin crawl with dread.
Firannion sings in a soprano voice:
"At the sound of a shout the people turned out
When a Dragon Priest troop came to town
They held a parade of some martyrs they'd made
Just to cow any malcontents down"
Firannion sings in a soprano voice:
"Alive but scarred and in chains came her bard
From the dungeons of deadly Dzree
His famed silken tongue, round his neck it was hung
As a warning to satirists free"
Firannion brings up the Empath's Theme once again, stirring and graceful, suggesting the transcendant power of love over oppression.
Firannion sings in a soprano voice:
"All but two that day turned their faces away
As that bloody procession did pass
No healer drew near, all shrank back in fear
But for one very brave Elven lass"
Firannion sings in a soprano voice:
"He hung his proud head and walked as if dead
No fire in Gintheru's eyes
Not once did he blink till his love forged a link
Then he started and stared in surprise"
Firannion sings in a soprano voice:
"The Dragon Priest guard surrounding the bard
Their spears at the empath did fling
She uttered no sound as she fell to the ground
But Gintheru started to sing"
Firannion suddenly mutes the drone strings with her left hand while her right recreates the solo voice of the Bard, then adds a more urgent version of the Cleric's Theme in counterpoint.
Firannion sings in a soprano voice:
"On the edge of the crowd one shouted aloud
A tinker he seemed by his wear
Though it meant his death, he'd restore her breath
So he sent up a desperate prayer"
Firannion throws her head back and howls!
Firannion sings in a soprano voice:
"From nowhere there strode the wolf of Meraud
The biggest that ever was seen
It first slew the guard, then nuzzled the bard
And licked all the empath's wounds clean"
Firannion concentrates hard on her instrument now, her fingers seeming to fly as she plays all three themes at once, the sound of three lives interwoven by fate.
Firannion sings in a soprano voice:
"Then Gintheru's song grew louder and strong
A Blessing the god had conferred
The Dragon Priests fled as the friar bowed his head
And a gasp from the empath was heard"
Firannion brings the triple theme to a crescendo and lets it drop, scraping one string with her fingernail in a sort of metallic sigh.
Firannion sings in a soprano voice:
"She never would tell what else befell
Betwixt these two lads and a lass
She only would say the wolf melted away
With a sound like the wind in the grass"
Firannion sings in a soprano voice:
"Though the fugitive bard no longer was scarred
He still bore a price on his head
She knew in her heart that again they must part
And soon into hiding he fled"
Firannion segues softly from the Bard's Theme into the Cleric's, then finally the Empath's.
Firannion sings in a soprano voice:
"In Springtime a bride at the bold cleric's side
That empath was destined to be
'Twas not long before a wee babe she bore
The babe that grew up to be me"
Firannion lets the melody rock slowly, like a cradle, before it fades down, leaving nothing but the bare bones of the original picking pattern.
Firannion sings in a soprano voice:
"And to this very day, I still cannot say
Though I am no longer young
Whether my sire was Meraud's holy friar
Or that bard with the silken tongue!"
Firannion smiles cryptically.
Firannion curtsies.
Firannion says, "Thanks, all."
Daerlynn recites:
"Thank you, Firannion. I can surely say the guild misses you, and your talent."
Daerlynn recites:
"And remember, all your songs would be like new again."
Daerlynn winks at Firannion.
Firannion leans on Daerlynn.
Daerlynn recites:
"Next, we have a limerick song."
Daerlynn recites:
"I was planning on doing my poem on Aurilae, but this one is more personal, about what it means to some to be a bard."
Daerlynn takes out a hairband, holding it between two fingers, inspecting it, before she undoes her hair.
Daerlynn says, "A limerick song..."
Daerlynn says, "... of a sorts."
Daerlynn pulls her hair back from her face, then puts in the hairband to hold it there. Two wispy curls fall gently down, sensuously framing her face.
Daerlynn pulls out a small mirror, setting it down in front of her, level with her face. She begins to sing gently, softly, almost to herself, as she looks into the mirror.
Daerlynn sings in an alto voice:
"There once was a minstrel from up north
A pretty one, some say, of a sort
She was young, she was old
She was shy, she was bold
But through it all, she doubted her worth"
Daerlynn frowns a small little frown, still gazing into the mirror.
Daerlynn sings in an alto voice:
"She's the mime in the box, stuck within
Everyone sees just the twinkle and grin
No one's looking inside
Where she curls up and hides
Stuck within the walls of her skin"
Daerlynn continues looking into the mirror, carefully beginning to apply bright white makeup to her face.
Daerlynn sings in an alto voice:
"She cries yet there's no-one to hear
All that people can see are their fears
Expectations and dreams
Turn to dust, it does seem
And emptiness dries all her tears"
Daerlynn finishes with the white makeup, touching up her face until it is completely white.
Daerlynn sings in an alto voice:
"She's the mime in the box, stuck within
Everyone sees just the twinkle and grin
No one's looking inside
Where she curls up and hides
Stuck within the walls of her skin"
Daerlynn cleans up the white makeup from her hands and puts it away, taking a stick of black makeup from her case.
Daerlynn pauses, gazing contemplatively into the mirror, tilting her head while twisting one of her hanging curls around a finger.
Daerlynn sings in an alto voice:
"They all see the clothes and the curls
The dancing, the singing, the twirls
She'll be flirty and bawdy
And perhaps a bit naughty
Performances for both boys and girls"
Daerlynn begins to apply the black makeup around her right eye, still singing softly.
Daerlynn sings in an alto voice:
"She's the mime in the box, stuck within
Everyone sees just the twinkle and grin
No one's looking inside
Where she curls up and hides
Stuck within the walls of her skin"
Daerlynn sings in an alto voice:
"Seeing what's expected to be
A self fulfilling prophecy
The paint on the wall
Does it color it all?
Or does the paint stain the essence of she?"
Daerlynn finishes now with her left eye, another black circle with little diamond points above and below the eye, and begins to apply the black makeup to her lips.
Daerlynn sings in an alto voice:
"She's the mime in the box, stuck within
Everyone sees just the twinkle and grin
No one's looking inside
Where she curls up and hides
Stuck within the walls of her skin"
Daerlynn puckers her lips, smoothing out the makeup on her lips.
Daerlynn draws a black smile around her lips, then begins to color it in.
Daerlynn sings in an alto voice:
"There once was a minstrel in hell
Trapped within an unchanging shell
Are those the same eyes
Peering out from inside?
I don't know, can you see, can't you tell?"
Daerlynn turns her head this way and that in front of the mirror, examining herself critically.
Daerlynn steps back a bit and twirls, her colorful gypsy skirt flying up high, giving everyone an enticing and very revealing view of her soft legs and supple thighs.
Daerlynn sings in an alto voice:
"They all love the clothes and the curls
The dancing, the singing, the twirls
They love flirty and bawdy
And perhaps a bit naughty
Performances for both boys and girls"
Daerlynn closes her makeup case with a practiced twist, putting it and the mirror away with an ease borne of familiarity.
Daerlynn turns and gazes at you, the wide and exaggerated smile painted on her white face at odds with the lack of emotion in her real eyes.
Daerlynn sings in an alto voice:
"I'm the mime in the box, stuck within
Everyone sees just the twinkle and grin
No one's looking inside
Where I've curled up and died
Stuck within the walls of my skin"
Daerlynn gazes at you while ending with one soft "ding" on her finger cymbals.
Daerlynn recites:
"Ok... next..."
Daerlynn recites:
"Honestly, how many people here at least thought about trying to pair up Khestryl and Kesstrell? Raise your hands?"
Daerlynn recites:
"And next, we have Khestryl!"
Khestryl smiles and strolls to the middle of the room
Khestryl chuckles.
Khestryl curtsies to Kesstrell.
Khestryl chortles softly at some secret joke.
Khestryl coughs.
Khestryl says, "Thank you Daerlynn"
Khestryl says, "And thank you bards all"
Khestryl says, "And friends of bards"
Khestryl clears her throat.
Khestryl says, "I am a Storyteller"
Khestryl slowly says, "I'd like to tell you a tale of a musician that entranced a goddess, and a love that could not be."
Khestryl beckons everyone to gather around.
Khestryl gets a tortoise-shell inlaid mandolin from inside her large suede case.
Khestryl adjusts her black pick.
Khestryl plucks at the strings of her shell-inlaid mandolin, listening intently.
Khestryl smiles softly at you and absently fingers the strings of her mandolin, playing a simple quiet tune.
Khestryl matter-of-factly says, "The minstrel's name is Lestryn D'Laque and you've probably seen him wandering the streets of Crossing, humming to himself or busily scribbling notes on pieces of parchment."
Khestryl quietly says, "He's a bard like you and me, but with an interesting past."
Khestryl recites:
"In his youth, Lestryn would receive daily invitations to perform at the homes of wealthy merchants in town. He would grab his rosewood mandolin, rush to the banquet hall and play all evening as the host and guests danced away."
Khestryl recites:
"'Eat your fill!' the host would declare, pointing the minstrel to the sideboard overflowing with delicacies, and handing him a few silver coins besides. And on such as he was given, did Lestryn live."
Khestryl recites:
"'How can you survive on so little?' friends would inquire. Lestryn only smiled and replied, 'It's not so bad. After all, how many can say they go to a different feast each night, play the music they love, and watch it set the whole room dancing.'"
Khestryl matter-of-factly says, "Lestryn loved Crossing."
Khestryl recites:
"Each day he would marvel at the city sights, visiting the temple, strolling the avenues, enjoying the shade of the trees in the Town Green. And even though everyone in town knew Lestryn and waved greeting to him, he was sometimes lonely."
Khestryl tenderly says, "The maidens who danced to his tunes would smile at him, and more than one had set his heart on fire."
Khestryl regretfully says, "But they were rich and he was poor, and not one of them would think of being his."
Khestryl recites:
"On one particularly lonely night, he sadly strolled down to a secret spot on the Segoltha and sat on the shore, his beloved instrument in his lap. Gentle waves brushed the shore, and moonlight shimmered on the water. Gazing at the river, he quietly murmured..."
Khestryl quietly says, "My lovely Segoltha. Rich man, poor man, it's all the same to you. If only you were a woman, I would marry you and live happily."
Khestryl sweetly says, "The minstrel plucked a sad tune, then a gentle one, and then a playful tune. The notes of his mandolin floated over the dark waters."
Khestryl recites:
"All at once, the river grew rough, and strong waves slapped the shore. From the depths of the water, a female shape arose. The goddess Lemicus stepped lightly to shore and smiled shyly at the musician."
Khestryl quietly says, "Fair minstrel, we have heard your sweet music and it has pleased us. We wish you to visit us in my sister's palace below the sea and entertain at a feast."
Khestryl slowly says, "At first, Lestryn could only gawk open mouthed at the sight before him. Finding his tongue, he quietly replied..."
Khestryl quietly asks, "Be it as you wish, fair lady. But how will I find your palace?"
Khestryl recites:
"Lemicus chuckled softly, her laughter as the gentle ripple of a brook. 'Good sir, it will be shown to you,' she said, a coy smile playing on her lips. 'Merely board the next ship leaving harbor on the morrow.'"
Khestryl happily says, "Tossing him several lustrous pink pearls, she sank back below the waves."
Khestryl smiles slightly bending over her mandolin and carefully plucks a quiet melody that floats across the room.
Khestryl recites:
"The next morning, Lestryn carefully bathed and dressed. Taking a soft cloth, he cleaned and buffed his mandolin until the rosewood glowed from within. Running to the docks, he jumped aboard a ship heading for the Reshalia Sea. As it sailed out of the harbor and into open water, Lestryn breathed deeply of the sharp salty air."
Khestryl inhales a great swallow of air.
Khestryl recites:
"Once the ship reached the vast expanse of the sea, Lestryn began to fret. 'How will I ever find the palace in this great open space?'"
Khestryl looks about with a puzzled expression on her face.
Khestryl excitedly exclaims, "Just then the ship shuddered to a halt, the wind filled the sails, yet the ship stood still, as if a giant hand had grasped it!"
Khestryl quietly says, "Some of the sailors cursed in fear, others prayed for their lives."
Khestryl recites:
"'Do not be troubled,' called out Lestryn. 'I know what to do!' And clutching his beloved mandolin, he climbed the rail and dove into the foamy waves."
Khestryl recites:
"Down to the bottom of the sea floor sank the bard. Long fingers of light played before his eyes, illuminating a pink coral palace. Ornate gold gates swung open before him, and Lestryn walked through into a great hall."
Khestryl recites:
"The elegant room was filled with all the nobility of the ocean depths. On three shell thrones at the end of the hall sat the goddess Eluned, and to her left, dark Drogor, on her right, a shyly smiling Lemicus."
Khestryl sweetly says, "Eluned smiled at Lestryn and motioned to a cushion near the dais."
Khestryl happily exclaims, "Welcome, fair minstrel. You have arrived just in time. Come, sit by me and let the dancing begin!"
Khestryl recites:
"Lestryn sat at Eluned's feet and began a merry tune on his mandolin. Soon all the guests were dancing and spinning about."
(Khestryl's fingers fly over the strings of her mandolin as she plucks a spritely jig that tickles your ears with it's melody.)
Khestryl recites:
""I like that tune!" declared Drogor, and he leapt to the center of the hall and joined the dance. His arms waved, his robes swirled, his hair streamed, his feet stamped."
Khestryl loudly exclaims, "Faster! Faster! Play faster!"
Khestryl recites:
"Lestryn plucked the strings faster and the god's dance grew wilder. All in the hall stopped and watched in awe. Ever more madly did he move, whirling faster, leaping higher, stamping harder."
Khestryl quietly says, "Eluned leaned close and whispered urgently in Lestryn's ear..."
Khestryl quietly says, "Musician, end your tune! It seems to you my brother merely dances in this hall. But above us, the sea is tossing ships like toys, and giant waves are breaking on the shore."
Khestryl recites:
"Alarmed, Lestryn pulled a string until it snapped. 'My sincere apologies M'lord, but my mandolin is broken.'"
Khestryl recites:
"Drogor growled, 'Pity, I could have danced for days. I like you though, bard. I think you should wed one of our handmaidens and remain with us forever!'"
Khestryl matter-of-factly says, "Lestryn gazed silently at the sea god and quietly replied..."
Khestryl quietly says, "Lord, beneath the sea, your word is law. But this is not my home."
Khestryl loudly exclaims, "Say no more! Prepare to choose your bride!"
Khestryl matter-of-factly says, "A dozen or more lovely maidens were paraded before Lestryn, but his heart was heavy and he barely looked at them."
Khestryl playfully asks, "What is wrong, musician? Are you not pleased?"
Khestryl grins smugly.
Khestryl emphatically exclaims, "Very well, you will wed the one who has chosen you! Behold, my sister Lemicus!"
Khestryl recites:
"Lemicus stepped lightly from her seat and stood before the minstrel. 'Sweet bard, at last we can be together. Many times have I thrilled to the music you played on the shore.'"
Khestryl quietly says, "Lestryn gazed in wonder at the lovely river goddess and bowing low said..."
Khestryl tenderly says, "My lady, you are as lovely as your river."
Khestryl quietly says, "From her throne, Eluned leaned over and whispered in Lestryn's ear..."
Khestryl quietly says, "You are a good man, minstrel, so I will tell you the truth. If you but once kiss or embrace my sister, you can never return to your land again."
(Khestryl bends over her mandolin, plucking a quiet tune once again.)
Khestryl recites:
"That eve as Lestryn lay beside his bride on a bed of seaweed, thoughts swirled through his brain. 'How can I not hold her, not kiss her? She is so lovely.'"
Khestryl regretfully says, "But each time Eluned's words came back to him, 'Never return to your land again.'"
Khestryl tenderly says, "Lemicus gazed into his eyes and quietly whispered, 'Dearest, why do you not embrace me?'"
Khestryl regretfully says, "It is the custom of my people. We never kiss or embrace on the first night.""
Khestryl sadly says, "Disappointment filled Lemicus' eyes. "Then I fear you never will," she said sadly, and turned away."
Khestryl recites:
"When Lestryn awoke the next morn, he felt the warmth of the sun on his cheeks. Opening his eyes, he expected to see his bride beside him, but what he saw instead was the River Segoltha."
Khestryl recites:
"'My home,' Lestryn murmured to himself, and he wept...perhaps for joy at his return, perhaps in sadness at his loss, perhaps for both."
Khestryl smiles sadly, her fingers stilling the strings of her instrument, the last notes of her melody echoing in the quiet room.
A tear runs down Kaelae's face.
Khestryl quietly says, "You will still find the minstrel, Lestryn D'Laque, wandering the streets of the city, perhaps not as he was in his youth."
Khestryl tenderly says, "And sometimes on a quiet evening, he will walk out of the city alone, sit on the bank, and send his tinkling music over the water."
Khestryl longingly says, "And sometimes too a lovely head will rise from the river to listen..."
Khestryl quietly says, "Or perhaps it is only moonlight on the Segoltha."
Khestryl sinks into a deep curtsy.
Daerlynn recites:
"After all these women.... ummm, and knowing him, in more ways than one.... let's hear it for Niteshiver!"
Niteshiver says, "Daerlynn you made this happen so well!!!!!! I was thinking about doing the bawdiest most erotic song i ever wrote about two apprentices and a cat but nah... This is a different kind of song for me but its about how good it has been to be bard these last weeks and how i thank the powers that be and especially all (except a few) of my fellow bards and bardesses"
Niteshiver sings in a bass voice:
"Let me say i am a bard
The muse is why I live
And when my ship reaches your port
Your secrets you will give"
Niteshiver sings in a bass voice:
"The bards they are in a time of pain
It seems they've always been
The bards have tried to keep their faith
in friends and in kin"
Niteshiver sings in a bass voice:
"Well my people
There are others who are lost in the night
Hooded and running nomads in flight
Tonight we'll dance with a fool named Death
Though he's dark and he's dangerous we will survive"
Niteshiver sings in a bass voice:
"O why the killing under such a lovely moon
The bastard doth hiss and threaten in vain
And though violent snickers crack the clay night
We will keep our fierce freedom and conquer the pain"
Niteshiver sings in a bass voice:
"The moon is bloodred, her eclipse is blanked
The bloody priests still walk the planet
and no bard shall love
as I have loved thee
Though it didnt turn out as we planned it"
Niteshiver sings in a bass voice:
"The blade of a bard is his heart and his voice
With music I love thee, there's really no choice
My words can undress thee and promise a kiss
With words I condemn hate, with words i resist"
Niteshiver sings in a bass voice:
"I am a bard
before I am a guild
But don't touch my music
And dont tell me to kill
for i will always condemn you
if you tell me to kill"
Niteshiver sings in a bass voice:
"We traveled to Dirge 'neath a cancerous wind
And searched the ovens of hatred
And we were attacked but stood fast as Bards
until the dark enemy retreated"
Niteshiver sings in a bass voice:
"For me Love and Freedom are much the same
How well you caress it is part of the game
So we dance the dance proudly and make it quite plain
that Bards own Freedom and Love without shame"
Niteshiver sings in a bass voice:
"Well my people
There are others who are lost in the night
Hooded and running nomads in flight
Tonight we'll dance with a fool named Death
Though he's dark and he's dangerous we will survive"
Niteshiver bows.
Daerlynn recites:
"We are getting close to the end.... I hope that you are all having a good time!"
Daerlynn recites:
"Tonight, with a fun song, we have the only performer in the Arthe Dale series to not give his performance IN Arthe Dale."
Daerlynn giggles.
Dewsong chortles softly at some secret joke.
Dewsong says, "Always fun performing at one of Daer's concerts... even if it is in the middle of a war... "
Daerlynn recites:
"When Arthe Dale was cut off during the Sorrow War, the show went on, in Crossing!"
Dewsong asks, "like Sura was going to shut me up?"
Dewsong scoffs.
Daerlynn recites:
"Let's here it for Dewsong!"
Dewsong smiles and sweeps his elegantly plumed hat from his brow as he bows to you into an outrageously deep pose, returning it with an exagerated flourish.
Dewsong adjusts his plumed hat.
Dewsong says, "well, as Daerlynn said, I have a habit for being a bit different...."
Dewsong says, "so, with all these classic songs and stories, I'm going to try somethig new... yet even older"
Dewsong says, "This song is what is called a toasting song. I'm sure many of you know what that means, but I'll clarify for those that don't... "
Dewsong says, "First, I need everyone to sing with me for the chorus, and to make sure you have a drink"
Dewsong says, "The rest of the song is a bit more fluid, as everyone is encouraged to contribute a verse if you've a mind to"
Dewsong says, "I just ask that you whisper to me when you have a verse you want to sing, then wait for me to point to you to sing it"
Dewsong taps a long golden baton inlaid in black opal with the image of a scaled dragon that he is holding.
Dewsong says, "got a baton and everything"
Dewsong grins like an idiot.
Dewsong exclaims, "Oh, and everyone's going to need plenty of drinks!"
Dewsong says, "okay, everyone ready? "Bardic Toast""
Dewsong casually observes the area.
Dewsong grins.
Dewsong beings to pound out a cheerfully driving duple meter upon the bar with his flagon of Elven frostwyne.
Dewsong nods along as pounding flagons and stamping feet join in all about you.
Dewsong waves a long golden baton inlaid in black opal with the image of a scaled dragon around.
Dewsong sings in a tenor voice:
"Such a grand and lovely night we've had
So many songs, both gregarious and sad,
But I just can't believe the night is done
So let's lift up our mugs and toast us everyone!"
A chorus of voices join with Dewsong's leading tenor as he sings:
"A toast, a toast! Give us a toast!
And we'll raise a ruckus
We'll raise us a chorus
And we'll raise a flagon or five!"
Dewsong waves a flagon of Elven frostwynne around.
Dewsong exclaims, "first, to our hosts!"
Dewsong sings in a tenor voice:
"A toast, a toast, for our gracious hosts!
Wilibald n' Daisy, the generous Burdoks
Through concerts here, fourty-nine
They've always been sure to have more wine!"
Dewsong grins.
A chorus of voices join with Dewsong's leading tenor as he sings:
"A toast, a toast! Give us a toast!
And we'll raise a ruckus
We'll raise us a chorus
And we'll raise a flagon or five!"
Dewsong sings in a tenor voice:
"A toast, a toast, to Daerlynn!
An the right meanie that she is
Hounding poor old bards across all the realms
Forcing us off our duffs and making us sing again!"
Daerlynn blushes furiously!
(Daerlynn wanst to hide.)
Dewsong points at a long golden baton inlaid in black opal with the image of a scaled dragon he has.
Dewsong points at Sundur.
Sundur sings in a tenor voice:
"A toast, a toast, to the thug with the most
a toast to the footpad who shoots
A toast to the bards who dragged me for MILES
A toast to my new pair of boots"
Dewsong laughs!
A chorus of voices join with Dewsong's leading tenor as he sings:
"A toast, a toast! Give us a toast!
And we'll raise a ruckus
We'll raise us a chorus
And we'll raise a flagon or five!"
Dewsong waves a flagon of Elven frostwynne around.
Dewsong says, "oh, can't forget the province we're in... so..."
Dewsong sings in a tenor voice:
"A toast to Zoluren's bonnie prince,
To Vorclaf's health, I yell
But before you wince
May it go down as fast as the ale!"
Dewsong grins.
Dewsong says, "we must not forgot those not with us..."
Dewsong sniffles.
Dewsong sings in a tenor voice:
"And now for a somber toast
For a fallen comrade
Not seen for many long years
That fine old fellow, Sir... Scotch"
Dewsong grins.
A chorus of voices join with Dewsong's leading tenor as he sings:
"A toast, a toast! Give us a toast!
And we'll raise a ruckus
We'll raise us a chorus
And we'll raise a flagon or five!"
Dewsong says, "I bet Mykk thought he was going to get out of this unnoticed... "
Dewsong sings in a tenor voice:
"A drink, a drink, for Mykk, for Mykk Dalys!
How he keeps up with us, I swear I'll never know
But without his notes, to our bliss
We might never know there even was show!"
Mykk winks at Dewsong.
Dewsong exclaims, "Shavay, let's hear one!"
Shavay sings in a countertenor voice:
"Sing A toast, a toast, to Neithrel's memory,
And to the Bards who have come before.
Through good times and bad, peacetime and war,
We've survived and asked for s'more!"
A chorus of voices join with Dewsong's leading tenor as he sings:
"A toast, a toast! Give us a toast!
And we'll raise a ruckus
We'll raise us a chorus
And we'll raise a flagon or five!"
Dewsong sings in a tenor voice:
"A toast for all the lasses I have known
Mages and warriors, healers and bards
Clerics and traders, and lasses in my pockets
Blushes so many, and roses by the score!"
Dewsong smiles slowly and gently tickles your cheek with a giggling pink rose as he begins flirting with you.
Dewsong grins.
Dewsong sings in a tenor voice:
"Ohhhohhh, let's drink a drink
To having a drink, a drink
'Cause any excuse to drink a drink
Is a good one I think, I think"
A chorus of voices join with Dewsong's leading tenor as he sings:
"A toast, a toast! Give us a toast!
And we'll raise a ruckus
We'll raise us a chorus
And we'll raise a flagon or five!"
Dewsong points at Donalisa.
Donalisa sings in a mezzo-soprano voice:
"A toast, A toast to all that sing and dance
Here's some whiskey down your pants
Drink your brew and sip your wine
Then get into the cabana boy dancing line!"
Dewsong laughs!
Dewsong says, "ah, Khestryl..."
Dewsong grins.
Dewsong sings in a tenor voice:
"Let's raise a toast for those EGGy Criers
And ignore their taste in cities
For in a bardic way they tell what transpires
So let us hope the yolk's not on them!"
Raising his Elven frostwynne to Khestryl, Dewsong gives her a toast.
Khestryl cackles at Dewsong!
Raising her Elven frostwynne to Dewsong, Khestryl gives him a toast.
A chorus of voices join with Dewsong's leading tenor as he sings:
"A toast, a toast! Give us a toast!
And we'll raise a ruckus
We'll raise us a chorus
And we'll raise a flagon or five!"
Dewsong asks, "someone mentioned whiskey?"
Dewsong sings in a tenor voice:
"A drink for a drink, the time has come
For Nancy Whiskey and Demon Rum
We bards, the realms would rule for fun
But for Nancy Whiskey and Demon Rum!"
Dewsong grins.
Dewsong pats a polished wooden bar.
Dewsong sings in a tenor voice:
"A toast for a tip, though it's rarely seen
Feel free to tip as much as you like
But never tip my tab or the barkeep'll
Send you along without even the clothes on your back!"
Dewsong cackles to himself!
A chorus of voices join with Dewsong's leading tenor as he sings:
"A toast, a toast! Give us a toast!
And we'll raise a ruckus
We'll raise us a chorus
And we'll raise a flagon or five!"
Dewsong points at Kithria.
Kithria sings in a soprano voice:
"Here's to those who led before
And those who follow after
let us not forget the love
and certainly not the laughter!"
Dewsong points at Shavay.
Shavay sings in a countertenor voice:
"A guzzle, a guzzle, making your head slightly fuzzled
To the toasting and toasters tonight,
And to the singers, the swingers and flingers,
The dancers, the prancers, and flirts!"
Shavay blinks.
Shavay asks, "Did I miss anyone?"
Dewsong chuckles.
Shavay grins.
A chorus of voices join with Dewsong's leading tenor as he sings:
"A toast, a toast! Give us a toast!
And we'll raise a ruckus
We'll raise us a chorus
And we'll raise a flagon or five!"
Shavay takes a sip of his windhaze.
Shavay gasps and chokes as his face takes on a bright reddish hue!
Dewsong says, "since he's not here to defend himself..."
Dewsong sings in a tenor voice:
"A toast, A toast, To ol' Nystie,
With many an 'Argg on the air,
Quaff this round for Pookie
The pirate with the heart of a teddy bear!"
Dewsong cackles like a lunatic!
A chorus of voices join with Dewsong's leading tenor as he sings:
"A toast, a toast! Give us a toast!
And we'll raise a ruckus
We'll raise us a chorus
And we'll raise a flagon or five!"
Dewsong says, "alright... one more toast... "
Dewsong sings in a tenor voice:
"A toast, a toast, to all of us!
To us I say, for getting past the day
Mercs, leaders, figures, and divided guild
But still Bards together one and all!"
Dewsong yells, "Bards!"
A chorus of voices join with Dewsong's leading tenor as he sings:
"A toast, a toast! Give us a toast!
And we'll raise a ruckus
We'll raise us a chorus
And we'll raise a flagon or five!"
Dewsong smiles and sweeps his elegantly plumed hat from his brow as he bows to you into an outrageously deep pose, returning it with an exagerated flourish.
Dewsong adjusts his plumed hat.
Dewsong says, "mark, go ahead and sing it anywa"
Markhor smiles.
Markhor nods.
Markhor sings:
"To those who earn all the coin
And spend it with a loud clink
Who struggle under backpack's full weight
To bring us all a good drink!"
Dewsong lets out a hearty cheer for Markhor!
Markhor sings:
"Ale grog margarita martini
Mead cider wine scotch bloody mary
White stout dry pale red
On ice with a head
Rum vodka gin liquor beer whiskey!"
Markhor lets out a hearty cheer for Dewsong!
Dewsong exclaims, "and Tabby!"
Tabby says, "Since I'm always late for everything else"
Tabby breaks out in a silly grin.
Hurkaprat chants in a bass voice:
"Here's to snakes and slithering things.
Here's to bugs before their wings.
For all these things my heart is filled
I left them there within your guild!"
Tabby sings in an alto voice:
"A toast, a toast to this backpack of drink!
Ales, Ciders, a Whisky or four!
Thanks to it, i find myself to the brink
Of umm... I forgot *hiccup* can someone help me find the door?"
Dewsong shakes his golden baton at Hurkaprat.
Dewsong says, "gotta watch the baton Hurk"
Tandek exclaims to Hurkaprat, "You didn't!"
Hurkaprat says, "You said."
Dewsong chuckles.
Dewsong looks at Hurkaprat and applauds!
Hurkaprat smiles.
Ilaina sings in a soprano voice:
"To the good!
To the BAD!
And to the ugly!
Just hand over the drink!"
Dewsong says, "alright, I think that's everyone for the moment, thanks for letting me try this style out... "
Dewsong grins.
Dewsong waves a long golden baton inlaid in black opal with the image of a scaled dragon around.
Daerlynn recites:
"Ok!!"
Daerlynn recites:
"I hate to do this to her, but next we have Agraynel, who just rushed in!!"
Daerlynn beams at Agraynel!
Daerlynn exclaims, "What a sport!"
Agraynel chuckles.
Agraynel stands up.
Agraynel says, "Sorry for being so late."
Agraynel blushes, the tips of her ears turning a delicate scarlet hue.
Agraynel says, "Given the uncertainty facing our guild currently, I wanted to share a few passages I discovered in my journies. Both are written by a Moon Mage named Barrin Lucitous and are the results of his analyzation of certain guilds and organizations using Moon Mage methods."
Agraynel says, "I didn't understand the majority of it, but I found a few of the sections informative, as they are the perceptions of our guild from an outsider. This first part is the result from Barrin's analyzation using some form of aura reading."
Agraynel recites:
"That brings me to the last Guild I will cover in this exercise, the Bard Guild. Where the other Guilds project a single color, a few shades at the most, the Bard Guild shines with every color-- a symphony of color, to steal a Bardic metaphor, or a beautiful rainbow. Their aura contains all colors, both the colors of the other guilds and unique colors of their own. The Barbarian's crimson, the Paladin's royal blue, the Ranger's green, the Empath's pink-- the Bard shines with them all."
Agraynel says, "I admit, I'm a sucker for a good rainbow analogy."
Agraynel says, "The second selection is the result of Barrin's attempts to analyze based on associated dieties and their relative symbolism. Again, I'm not including the more esoteric parts because I don't understand any of it, but the observations are interesting on their own."
Agraynel recites:
"This leads me to the Bard Guild. Of all Guilds, the Bards have the closest association with their 'patron' diety, Faenella. Between Faenella herself, and Idon and Murrela (her aspects) an interesting examination can be made of the guild. Bards are a curious collection of oxymoronic symbology, as I will endevour to explain."
Agraynel recites:
"I'll begin with Idon, the constellation of the Heron. In Idon we have the scoundrel-- the rake, the rogue, the swashbuckler-- symbolized with a bird of bearing, poise, and nobility. Additionally, the Heron is oft used to symbolize solitude and self-reliance, an interesting contrast to Idon's lustful ventures."
Agraynel recites:
"Bards themselves act in similar ways, moving between the underworld and the 'upper crust' with ease, at home equally with a merchant prince, a bandit king, or a Therengian Baron. From crowded taverns to the lonely road, Bards require little more than what they themselves provide and provide for others more than required."
Agraynel recites:
"Murrula, the constellation of the Phoenix, arguably the closest to the Bards, offers more insight. Here we have the classic symbol of life after death, the Phoenix, which clearly represents the death and rebirth of the guild in more modern times, but also represents the resolve and determination of the Bards throughout history, and their indomitable spirit which rises up after all attempts to quell it."
Agraynel recites:
"The Phoenix also represents both aspects of fire... the soft, warm light that provides illumination, healing, and comfort as well as the dangerous, raging fire that reshapes the land through destruction. From quiet scholar to raging warrior (and back), Bards provide a glow, a relief in dark times."
Agraynel recites:
"Last, of course, is Faenella herself, the Wren, the giver of inspiration and guardian of adventurers. The Wren typically symbolizes innocence, vulnerability, and unrequited love but at the same time song and good cheer, inner strength, and family. I would argue that Faenella, the Wren, provides the single closest approximation of the typical Bard-- innocent yet strong, cheerful yet distant, self-reliant yet solitary but part of a far-reaching family."
Agraynel recites:
"Additionally, and most interesting, the wren is a common symbol for the divine found in the ordinary. Many scholars have written that Bards are 'touched by Faenella' or are 'Faenella's children,' perhaps there is more truth to those statements than normally believed. Either way, Bards possess a curious bond to one another that is not shared by any other organization or guild I've seen."
Agraynel says, "The family aspect, or bond, that our guild shares predates the reestablishment of the guild itself. The Bardlings, as they liked to be known, waiting for the reestablishment would meet regularly to share information, to fan the spark of music in the lands, to teach each other, and to take care of one another."
Agraynel says, "That spirit has continued on in the guild for some twenty five odd years, and has grown as the membership of the guild has grown. Our ability to face adversity together, to band together when things are dark and to support each other and succor each other is the true spirit of our guild, and something to take great pride in."
Agraynel says, "Our guild is a family, and I am blessed, honored, and truly thankful to be called a member of it."
Agraynel says, "Thank you."
Daerlynn recites:
"We have two more things tonight..."
Daerlynn recites:
"Agraynel showed up."
Daerlynn winks.
Daerlynn recites:
"Next we have a truly wonderful performer, who sang at the very first concert in this series."
Daerlynn recites:
"It was not by happenstance that she was the first, these concerts were inspired by her own concert series, which I was unlucky enought to just catch the last song circle I believe..."
Daerlynn recites:
"So, next, we have Dreamheart."
Dreamheart smiles.
(Dreamheart takes her place up at the front and settles her skirts around her.)
Dreamheart takes a seat.
Dreamheart says, "Thank you so much Daerlynn."
Daerlynn smiles at Dreamheart.
Dreamheart says, "And Dewsong, I must also thank you for waking up the audience."
Dreamheart says, "Ailyssa, dear, here hand these song sheets out to everyone who wants them."
Candidus says, "I think Ailyssa left Dreamie dear. I missed her leaving also."
Dreamheart sighs.
Dreamheart says, "Then you hand them out Candidus."
Dreamheart nods.
Candidus nods to Dreamheart.
Candidus stands near Dreamheart.
Dreamheart says, "Please, sing with me if you like, Bards one and all."
Dreamheart gets a rosewood psaltery aged to a time-worn patina from inside her silver-hued bag.
(Dreamheart waits a moment.)
(Dreamheart pulls her psaltery up and tenderly places her hands in position on it. A faint but pleasant hum of the strings brings a smile to her face as she looks up into the eyes of the audience.)
Dreamheart says, "Twenty-three years ago something happened here in the Crossing that changed my life. It changed yours, too, whether you were here or not. It has taken a long time, but I was finally able to write this song."
Dreamheart says, "This was the culmination of all my dreams and hopes -- the day the Bard Guild opened again, and my first instrument came to my hands."
Dreamheart says, "Siryn Mistbringer worked long and hard to bring this to pass. Even past her own death."
(Dreamheart glances up, somewhere toward the back of the audience, over everyone's head.)
Dreamheart says, "It took long, my Lady, but Siryn, this is your song."
Dreamheart smiles softly and strikes the stirring opening chord on her psaltery. The music sounds bright and catchy.
(Dreamheart nods to the singers.)
A chorus of voices join with Dreamheart's leading alto as she sings:
"~
Listen to the music swell,
Listen to the heart's sweet tale,
Listen to the song of life,
Listen to your soul's delight!"
(Dreamheart's fingers fly in a transition on the strings. The music wells up into a heart-felt and easy pattern under the ballad.)
Dreamheart sings in an alto voice:
"It was the year of the Crystal Snow Hare
When the musical star began to flare.
All the city stopped to stare
In wonder at the portents there."
Dreamheart sings in an alto voice:
"It must be a festival, many cried,
And Mages gazed upward trying to scry
Murulla's star pulsing bright in the sky!
Was it good news or bad that they espied?"
Dreamheart nods.
Dreamheart sings in an alto voice:
"Bardesses three had come to town,
Promising restoration of the guild of song.
But Siryn was missing, now what to do?
And Dragon Priests of all sorts were on the loose."
Dreamheart sings in an alto voice:
"But the Dragon Priests saw the star, as well-
And o'er the lands their forces swelled.
Their High Priest strode forth, spouting lies,
And there and then tried to claim the prize."
(Dreamheart strums the chord progressions that move quickly into the chorus.)
A chorus of voices join with Dreamheart's leading alto as she sings:
"~
Listen to the music swell,
Listen to the heart's sweet tale,
Listen to the song of life,
Listen to your soul's delight!"
(Dreamheart's psaltery leads the music back into the tale with an intriguing change-up.)
Dreamheart sings in an alto voice:
"Dragon Priest Zealots scoured the known world,
Hunting down each would-be songbird.
Decrees of death, they cried out by name,
But the future bards would not be so tamed."
Dreamheart sings in an alto voice:
"When then the town rose up in song
And heroes many were in that throng.
The Phoenix that sat above them high
Flared with brilliance and lit the sky!"
Dreamheart sings in an alto voice:
"The song could not be quelched this time,
And struggling, untutored, verses chimed
At Siryn's ghost's urging, the song would rise,
That became the High Priest's ultimate demise."
Dreamheart sings in an alto voice:
"Yet the cost was high that starry night,
When Siryn coached the music's light
From her would-be bards in vocal band,
Against the High Priest's sick demands."
Dreamheart smiles and looks across the audience as she picks the tempo of the music up for the chord progression in the chorus. The music soars in the catchy melody as the psaltery provides the fullness of the chords.
A chorus of voices join with Dreamheart's leading alto as she sings:
"~
Listen to the music swell,
Listen to the heart's strong tale,
Listen to the song of life,
Listen to your soul's delight!"
(Dreamheart's music suddenly transposes into a minor key and plays softly under her voice.)
Dreamheart chants in an alto voice:
"Awkward verses hurled forth
From untrained throats
And smote him with power
Power for years lost and unknown."
Dreamheart chants in an alto voice:
"Amid the sounds of battle,
Siryn urged the songs to fly!"
(Dreamheart lifts her voice in victory. The music resolves back into the original major chords of the chorus as she sings out...)
Dreamheart sings in an alto voice:
"And with those songs growing strong,
We watched the High Priest die!"
(Dreamheart modulates up a step as she finishes the tale.)
Dreamheart sings in an alto voice:
"Thus in the year Three Forty Nine,
Music lived again, just in time.
With her last effort, Siryn claimed the victory,
Music flowed again, and bards were free to sing!"
Dreamheart beams!
Dreamheart sings in an alto voice:
"You can still see Siryn's cutlass to this very day,
Where Olak laid it in honor in a Bard Guild display.
It was the year of the Crystal Snow Hare
When music's destiny rang in the air."
(Dreamheart draws the full power of the psaltery out with a splash of notes that ring like laughter.)
Dreamheart sings in an alto voice:
"And we were singing..."
Dreamheart appears to be listening intently for something.
A chorus of voices join with Dreamheart's leading alto as she sings:
"~
Listen to the music swell,
Listen to the heart's sweet tale,
Listen to the song of life,
Listen to your soul's delight!"
A chorus of voices join with Dreamheart's leading alto as she sings:
"~
Listen to what is made right!"
Dreamheart smiles with genuine pleasure as she concludes the song. Her psaltery echoes a quick arpeggio and then notes are left echoing in the air.
Dreamheart stands up.
(Dreamheart smiles and gestures to the singers as she bows her head to them, "Thank you.")
Dreamheart curtsies gracefully.
Daerlynn recites:
"Thank you, Dreamheart. That was wonderful.. and something that should be remembered by all bards."
Daerlynn recites:
"Lastly tonight, I would like to have a memorial service to end on."
Daerlynn recites:
"To remember all those friends, all those bards, that we miss so dearly.. and to honor those in the Gorbesh War."
Daerlynn gets some smooth ivory bones etched with curling scrollwork from inside her messenger's satchel.
Daerlynn stands quietly at the front of the softly lit room, two unlit candles in front of her, one slightly to the left and one slightly to the right.
Daerlynn quietly says, "Tonight, I would like to end this wonderful evening with a ceremony."
Daerlynn quietly says, "Specifically, this work is so that the deeds, words and memories of those that fought for us so bravely in the Gorbesh War are not forgotten. That ALL bards that have gone before are not forgotten."
Daerlynn quietly says, "And, being a Bard, this work is especially dedicated to Wren, and to all of the Defenders of the Lute. But, in a more general sense, it is for all of those Bards that have gone before us, and are no longer among us."
Daerlynn stops speaking, her eyes traveling the crowd, gazing at each and every bard that she has shared time with over the years, in laughter and in friendship, in joy and in sorrow, in song or in combat. Shared love and remembrances are in her eyes.
Daerlynn quietly says, "And especially tonight, in these times of trouble for the guild, let us remember, let us never forget, that we are *all* bards. That being a bard is more than guild, that it is more than profession, that it is more than combat or lore."
Daerlynn quietly says, "Being a Bard is more even than music or magic, except that of the soul. For being a bard is having that true magic, that true music, of the heart and of the soul. When all else fails, nothing can take that away from us."
Daerlynn quietly says, "Nothing."
Daerlynn recites:
"A Time to Remember."
Daerlynn quietly says, "In crafting such a remembrance as this, sometimes mere speech is not enough. As such, tonight what I will give to you is partly poetry, partly song, and partly the actual words of the participants themselves."
Daerlynn bows her head and closes her eyes in deferential respect, and begins to recite quietly.
Daerlynn recites:
"We are gathered together tonight to mourn.
But not only to mourn, but to remember.
To mourn, and to remember, the honor and valor that took place in these realms.
To mourn, and to remember, those who gave of themselves in past wars.
To mourn, and to remember, those people that have touched us."
Daerlynn recites:
"Those people that,if even for one brief moment,
Have added their thread to the Tapestry of our Lives.
To mourn, and to remember.... and to Honor."
Daerlynn lifts her eyes to you.
Daerlynn quietly says, "For those of you who may not know, the old Temple fell and was razed during the Gorbesh's final assault on the Crossing."
Daerlynn sings in an alto voice:
"The Gorbesh had come, seeking Peri'el's Lute,
The Chalice, and a Bardess.
Especially a Bardess.
A Bardess named Wren."
Daerlynn quietly says, "I come here to honor those that fought in the Gorbesh War. "
Daerlynn quietly says, "Sometimes a Bard can honor with her own words, adding lofty eloquence and artistic license to events in the past."
Daerlynn quietly says, "Other times, a Bard will do better to step aside, and let the past speak for itself."
Daerlynn quietly says, "I have chosen to do the latter. What you will hear in much of this will be the actual words of the participants, the heroes if you will, echoing down throughout the years."
Daerlynn nods, and the lights go out, leaving utter darkness.
Daerlynn recites:
"Imagine, if you will, the scene..."
Daerlynn lights one candle, the flickering of its small flame illuminating the bardess dimly in its small circle of light.
Daerlynn taps lightly on her bones, slowly, over and over, almost like the slow dripping of water, a backdrop behind her words. "tock... tock... tock... tock... "
Daerlynn recites:
"A city surrounded by the enemy
Besieged, harried
War horns blare continuously."
Daerlynn recites:
"Heroes guard a Lute deep inside the sewers
Dark,tense
Water dripping over.. and over... "
Daerlynn recites:
"A Bardess, in hiding.
The city besieged because of you...
And yet you don't know why.
Nightmares and visions inhabit your sleep.
Citizens counsel turning you over
... to the enemy."
Daerlynn quietly says, "Can you imagine the horrible loneliness? And yet... she sings this song.. Only hours before the end."
Daerlynn quietly says, "A song by the Bardess Wren."
Daerlynn lifts up a clear alto voice a cappella.
Daerlynn sings in an alto voice:
"Sorrow Spring, will the rain never cease
Red Winter puddles before weak weary feet
We hold to our song and courage increase
Lest hope depart with our body's defeat."
Daerlynn sings in an alto voice:
"Does the loss of a feather doom the fall of a bird?
Does the loss of our lives mean a tacit downfall?
Do the cries of the fallen go ever unheard?
My brethren and sisters, let us lift up our call!"
Agraynel Rosmar-Lambelle, an Elf.
She has pointed ears and crystal blue eyes. Her honey hair is shoulder length and straight, and is worn arranged in an intricate Elven braid. She has fair skin.
She is young for an Elf.
She has faint scuffing to the right arm, faint scuffing to the left arm, faint scuffing to the right leg, faint scuffing to the right hand, faint scuffing to the left hand, faint scuffing to the chest, faint scuffing to the abdomen, faint scuffing to the back, some minor swelling and bruising around the right eye, some minor swelling and bruising around the left eye, some minor twitching.
She is holding a cup of catmint tea in her right hand.
She is wearing a braided platinum neithrel band wrapped with a lute string, a kyanite gwethdesuan, a jadeite gwethdesuan, a glittering gold torque, a bronze Trailblazer badge, a silver flute case, a rose-colored ribbon, a wide platinum charm bracelet, a swirling colorful silken dress, a knot of multicolored silk ribbons, a rainbow rosette made up of a myriad of fabrics and colors, a rainbow-hued spidersilk fillet, a multicolored anklet of cracked glass beads and an instrument case embossed with a broken cutlass.
Reveler Ailyssa Golden-Hair, a Human.
She has crystal green eyes. Her honey hair is very long and thick, and is worn arranged in an intricate Elven braid. She has tanned skin.
She is in her prime for a Human.
She is in good shape.
She is wearing an emblazoned tower shield, a spiraling cambrinth ankleband adorned with tiny alfar charms, a wide cambrinth wristcuff bearing the crest of the Bard guild, a narrow cambrinth armband bearing the crest of the Bards' guild, a woven grass thigh quiver, a dark blue small suede case hung from a deep emerald silken tapestry strap shot through with threads of cobalt blue, some gleaming chain, a velvet-lined woodwind pouch decorated with fluttering ribbons, a diminutive cambrinth cornet, a diminutive cambrinth faenellica, a diminutive cambrinth Harlequin, a wide leather Therengian war belt riveted with decorative pewter plates, a kyanite gwethdesuan, a jadeite gwethdesuan, a gold-inlaid silver neithrel band bearing a tri-stranded braided chain, a bright multi-colored cape stitched with the image of a honey-haired Elven Bard playing upon a set of musical bones followed by a group of Elanthian women, a wren feather pick, some thin-strapped golden sandals with ivory clasps, a gold medallion symbolizing dedication to Faenella, a coral sarong clasped at the hip with a carved ivory orchid, a blue brocade backpack embroidered along the straps with a wren-in-flight pattern, a carved wooden wren hanging from a soft leather cord, a strand of musical note-shaped crystalline hair beads dyed a rainbow of iridescent hues, some gold wren-shaped earrings inset with diamonds, a handcarved teak herbalist's case clasped with a crystal jadice flower, a diminutive cambrinth hichiriki, a diminutive cambrinth whistle, a braided cambrinth ring set with a miniature golden pony, a twisted cambrinth ring bearing the crest of the Bards' guild, a diminutive cambrinth chub, a spherical cambrinth earring with a dangling silver disk, some purple cotton socks, a brass Myth Weaver trinket and a cerulean hip belt embroidered with intricate golden wrens.
Akhahn A'suu, a S'Kra Mur.
He has slitted silver eyes, mottled scales and a slender tail.
He is in his prime for a S'Kra Mur.
He is in good shape.
He is holding a sturdy tan backpack in his right hand and an ivory-hilted claymore in his left.
He is wearing some jet black goblinskin leathers, an onyx-inlaid light crossbow, a tan leather hip pouch hand-tooled with a panther stalking a buck, a deep ebony eyepatch, a jadeite gwethdesuan, a snakeskin wrist sheath, a barbarian's wristlet made of cured kelpie leather and interlaced goblin bones, an onyx cobra tailband, a rough brown burlap tabard sewn in black thread with the emblem of the wild boar of Everild, a blood red linen hip pouch woven in black with dancing barbarians, a carved silver tailband, a ruby shark armband, a wild boar charm, a glass scorpion charm suspended from a spidersilk cord, a kyanite gwethdesuan, a thigh pouch, some onyx armbands, a black leather hand-tooled highwayman's belt, a feathered charm, a studded greatsword harness, a gold ring bearing the crest of the Barbarian's Guild, a silver key with a spider-web design on the grip, a sturdy black backpack, a blackened steel locket, some ghoulskin boots colored pale grey splotched with sickly green, a long ebony hooded cloak, a weathered sheath inlaid with troll bone, a short bow, a leather cowl and some black leather reinforced gloves painted along the backs with multihued scales.
Prestidigitator Anatashai De'Talon of Elanthia, a Prydaen Warrior Mage.
She has pointed ears and cat-slitted crystal green eyes. Her silver mane is very long and curly, and is worn loose, tucked behind her ears. She has black fur with a silver belly with grey marbling and a slender tail.
She is young for a Prydaen.
She is in good shape.
She is holding a tall glass of red wine in her right hand.
She is wearing a leather reinforced helm, some reinforced gloves, some deep ebony fur-lined leathers, some thigh boots, a delicate brass oak leaf anklet, a rose glass talisman-shaped bracelet, a rumpled satin vest, a black gem pouch, a misty white satin rosette, some sapphire leather leggings, a long bearskin cloak, a leather sheath, a sturdy backpack, a sash sloppily embroidered with a panther pattern in coral-colored thread, an ebony short bow, a silver eyebrow ring, a cooking pot lid and a target shield.
Arnath Khalenwolf, a Rakash.
He has deep-set jade eyes, a blonde and silvered black coat with black masking and a slender tail.
He is young for a Rakash.
He is in good shape.
He is wearing a cambrinth ring with a carved bear claw setting, a small cambrinth stone strung on steel wire, a leaf green helm, a silver kyanite gwethdesuan, a silver jadeite gwethdesuan, a black gem pouch, a crystal wolf armband, an elegant blood-wolf-pelt sack, a dark green cotton odaj, a witch ball, an engagement ring, a thigh quiver, a battered warrior's pack expertly embroidered with the image of a lone black wolf perched atop a boulder midst a raging battlefield, an arm pouch fashioned from dried twigs and fastened with vine straps, a midnight black sheath, a long mesh weapon harness, some perfect firecat-skin leathers and some leaf green gloves.
Athesa Trianny, a Prydaen.
She has pointed ears and cat-slitted crystal green eyes. Her golden brown mane is long and fine, and is worn arranged in pigtails. She has glittered blue-grey fur and a slender tail.
She is young for a Prydaen.
She has a tattoo of a band of jackals surrounding a small girl with a huge claymore grasped firmly in her hands on her arm.
She has faint scuffing to the head, some faint scars along the chest, faint scuffing to the abdomen, faint scuffing to the back.
She is in good shape.
She is wearing a black gem pouch, a silver key with a spider-web design on the grip, a blood red baloyun fashioned from a hollowed-out boar tusk, a mirror-finish gold-plated Idon emblem suspended from an iron chain, an oath ring of polished onyx that holds captive a tiny hourglass, a pair of dark brown leather pants, some elegant black leather boots, a black satin pouch with braided red silk drawstrings, a simple deep black robe belted with a length of knotted leather, a pitch-black quiver, a somber black mourning armband depicting the plight of the Prydaen, a shadowy black hooded cloak, a mirror-finish gold-plated ring engraved with the heron of Idon, a blackened steel locket, a crocodile-skin shield, a silver kyanite gwethdesuan, a pitch-black sheath, a witch ball, a black velvet backpack with a polished moonstone clasp, a gold jadeite gwethdesuan and a balanced rosewood and ebony recurve bow.
Athiana Basarona of the Order of the White Rose, a Human.
She has pouting lips and sparkling violet eyes. Her black hair is very long and wavy, and is worn pulled up in an elaborate four-stranded braid. She has tanned skin and a shapely figure.
She is short for a Human.
She is in her prime for a Human.
She has a tattoo of a dragon made of blue ice breathing white flames on her back.
She is in good shape.
She is wearing a sculpted pewter tankard pin etched with a seven-pointed star, a highly polished platinum ferroniere inset with a small black diamond, some diamond-framed spectacles with smaragdine-tinted lenses, a spun glass nightshade flower tinted the hues of darkness, a jet-black silk tabard embroidered with a stalking panther outlined with silver thread, a storm grey velvet corset accented with silvery lightning bolts, some black leather leggings adorned with a string of dark crystal beads, a belled gold anklet with dangling onyx panther charms, some black suede riding boots with slightly raised heels, a narrow gold wedding band shaped into an intricate true lover's knot, a polished platinum ring bearing the Zoluren crest, a dark gem pouch, an herb pouch, a lustrous ebony spellbook case inset with silvery crystal stars, a platinum-hued armor pack shot through with narrow strands of steelsilk, a sigilated platinum ring, a silver-edged scabbard, a silver kyanite gwethdesuan, a platinum jadeite gwethdesuan and an exquisitely woven white silk rose with an emerald green stem twined around a platinum seven-pointed star.
Auriol D'Pre, a Halfling Bard.
She has hazel eyes and dimples. Her black hair is long and wavy, and is worn loose, tucked behind her ears. She has fair skin.
She is a whippersnapper for a Halfling.
She is in good shape.
She is holding a fancy chocolate tart swirled with pale vanilla in her right hand.
She is wearing a colorful butterfly barrette, a slender necklace of tiny glass beads, a butterfly pendant suspended from a long multi-colored chain, a serene silken wrap of sapphire blue embellished with hand-painted butterflies, a low-cut white lace summer dress woven with golden ribbons, a silver knot bracelet adorned with a circle of milky moonstone, a wide silver knotwork ring displaying a vibrant blue topaz, a dainty silver ring, a braided lute-string ring, a silver neithrel band embellished with sapphires, a soft colorful haversack adorned with gauzy ribbons and crystal beads, a cornflower blue tart pouch decorated with hand painted dancing tarts, a navy blue brocade bag, a heavy gold ankle-chain from which dangle dozens of colorful glass charms and some white and purple enameled toe bells crafted to resemble miniature turnips.
Buffoon Bernart de'Ventadorn, an Elven Bard.
He has pointed ears and hazel eyes. His golden brown hair is shoulder length and fine, and is worn tied back. He has smooth skin.
He is young for an Elf.
He has a scruffy growth of stubble on his face.
He is in good shape.
He is holding a tall glass of silvery white wine in his right hand.
He is wearing a nankeen peddler's pack, a leather sheath, some hunting leathers, some faded pants, a golden lilac wristlet, a full-sleeved linen shirt, a wool hooded cloak, a crystal castle-shaped ring, an iron-tipped longbow, some frayed silk shoes and a target shield.
Bethany Bryce of Elanthia, a Human Empath.
She has hazel eyes. Her golden brown hair is long and straight, and is worn braided. She has fair skin.
She is in her prime for a Human.
She is in good shape.
She is holding a flagon of Rangers Special ale in her right hand.
She is wearing a shimmering rose-colored cloak, a thigh quiver dyed in a brown and green camouflage pattern, a delicate butterfly hairpin of gold filigree inlaid with bright pink and periwinkle blue crystals, a purple velvet ribbon, a spiraling cambrinth armband inlaid with a carved onyx ram, a straw bonnet brightened with festive daisies and berries that are fastened to its green band, a warmage's red eyepatch engraved with the image of a fire ball, a silver nose ring, a silver earring in the shape of a shield emblazoned with a heart, a pair of silver filigree earrings with dangling crystals, a platinum chain baleora bearing a claw pendant with a green malachite ball in its taloned grasp, a silver kathla of nine delicately carved turquoise plates depicting events surrounding the life of Eluned, a silver kathla of nine expertly enameled plates that depict events surrounding the life of Truffenyi, a sheer dress made of shimmering blue and mauve gossamer that sparkles with threads of glittering silver, a modest forest-green robe embroidered with frolicking figures of the Fae along the cuffs and hem, a ripped black-blue tabard embroidered with a black widow spider sitting amidst a web of green lightning, a satchel with blue crewelwork morning glories trimmed with a blue and white silk braid, a black velveteen skirt tied with a white coral beaded sash and showing an edge of ivory lace petticoats at the hem, a sleek ironwood crossbow, an embossed greatsword sheath, a twisted driftwood staff made of saltwater hardened oak, a deep-blue leather drum pouch painted with tiny singing wrens, an intricately embroidered black silken weeper, some tiny forget-me-nots made from sapphire silk strung together in a wristlet, a leather archer's cuff with the Ranger Guild crest hand-tooled across the back, a slightly bent copper ring set with a chipped cambrinth stone, a tarnished silver ring engraved with an oddly stylized Empath's guild crest, a platinum veneered cambrinth ring bearing the crest of the Empath's Guild, a rope belt woven from rainbow-colored nemoih strands, a double-wrapped leather sword belt stamped and painted with proud golden lions, a curiously shaped medicine bag covered with iridescent greenish-black grackle feathers, a leather hip pouch painted with the image of a brown dragon holding a red jewel, a leather belt quiver with the Ranger Guild crest intricately tooled across the front, a pure white velvet pouch embroidered with the words "My Tips" in scarlet thread, an oaken bolt box acid-incised with images of hunting nobility and fierce animals in a wooded glen, a jet-black silk garter accented with a tiny ruby heart pierced with a diamond arrow, some red ribbon garters, a gold anklet, a multicolored anklet of cracked glass beads, some cuffed beige slouch moccasins decorated with beaded magpie feathers, a darkened silver badge emblazoned with the words "Professional Locksmith", a blue topaz butterfly pin bejeweled with garnets and pearls, a motley jester's tabard of faded green and gold satin diamonds, a dingy brown battle-worn burlap tabard stained with sweat and blood, a motley jester's tabard of faded green and gold satin diamonds, an elegant thigh-length tabard made from mottled mulberry silk, a motley jester's tabard of faded green and gold satin diamonds, a raven black silk rosette the color of Katamba's waning face, a deep black silk clerical robe embroidered with a wreath of sour-looking grapes along the circular yoke and hem, a gleaming silver circlet delicately engraved with sinuous vinery, a deep crimson silk rose embroidered lightly in silver threading, a sunset orange rosette with two sheer gold ribbons hanging from it, a deep red rosette of satin with two blushing pink ribbons trailing from it, a ceramic Faire rosette with two silvery silk ribbons depending from it, a raven black silk rosette the color of Katamba's waning face, a shimmering mist silver rosette adorned with black satin ribbons, a pale blue rosette accented by gossamer green and gold ribbons, a deep red rosette of satin with two blushing pink ribbons trailing from it, a pristine white silk rosette the color of an unshadowed snowfield, a forest green rosette fastened with twin blue silk ribbons, a polished silver clasp displaying an ivory unicorn leaping through a lush wreath of herbs, a bright red foraging apron with the words "Hug the Empath!" sewn across the front in white block lettering, a tapestry vest depicting a lush meadow scene woven from threads dyed in the pale colors of Spring, a silk stole edged with embroidered garlands of healing herbs, a deep blue woolen jacket fastened with carved rowan buttons bearing an embroidered Bards' Guild badge on one sleeve, a burnished silver cloak pin inset with a translucent glass sword and shield, a leather thigh quiver embossed with a pair of yellow wolf's eyes, a deep gold silk stole embroidered with the image of a black coyote howling at a fiery red crescent moon, a small green ribbon embroidered with the Dwarven sigil for prosperity and a wide ring of white gold inlaid with dark garnets.
Brikmar Bor'Nor of the Order of the White Rose, an Elothean.
He has an angular face with slightly pointed ears, tilted almond-shaped amber eyes and a straight nose. His black hair is long and fine, and is worn loose. He has pale skin and a lean build.
He is tall for an Elothean.
He is in his prime for an Elothean.
He is in good shape.
He is holding a mug of blackberry stout in his right hand.
He is wearing a sculpted pewter tankard pin etched with a seven-pointed star, an elegant black gentleman's greatcloak, a lockpick ear-stud, a wide cambrinth wristcuff set with three cabochon stones, a witch ball, a simple pewter charm bracelet, a silver and amethyst ring inset with a cambrinth crystal carved in the shape of a wolf's head, some steel-rimmed spectacles, a finely tailored shirt with steel wolf buttons, a silver-etched ebonwood horned owl pendant, some jet black leather pants, some deep ebony leather boots with engraved silver toe caps, a grey quiver, a deep sable three-forked sword belt with brass buckles and fittings, an etched silver medallion, a darkened silver ring engraved with a seven-pointed star, a platinum kyanite gwethdesuan, a sigilated platinum ring, a silver key with a spider-web design on the grip, a narrow gold wedding band shaped into an intricate true lover's knot, a black spidersilk backpack, a silver jadeite gwethdesuan, a black leather scroll case embossed with the symbol for eternity, a silver-inlaid willow spellbook case, an exquisitely woven white silk rose with an emerald green stem twined around a platinum seven-pointed star, a dark gem pouch and a crossbow crafted from fine Katamba-black wood that has been carved to suggest the shapes of long bones.
Reeve Candidus Custos of Zoluren, a Human Paladin.
He has a square-jawed face with sparkling crystal blue eyes, an aquiline nose and a cleft chin. His blue-black hair is long and thick, and is worn parted on the side. He has tanned skin.
He is very tall for a Human.
He is in his prime for a Human.
He is clean shaven.
He is in good shape.
Four small glowing balls rotate above Candidus's head, almost like a halo.
He is holding a hot toddy in his right hand.
He is wearing a delicate platinum circlet inlaid with golden filigree and set with a single star sapphire, an exquisite ebony-black surcoat made with the finest crushed velvet, an ebony beisswurm leather Sentinel's belt with a platinum lion's head buckle, a wide burgundy sash of rich velvet stitched with golden embroidery along the hem, a dark silk sash embroidered with the crest of Zoluren, a floor-length black velvet knight's cloak clasped with a ruby broach and stitched with the family crest on the back, a delicate pink rosebud, an onyx medallion hanging from a delicate silver chain, a simple platinum locket, a silver laminated bracer with a cambrinth cabochon set in its center, an antique platinum ring bearing the Paladin Guild crest and the device of the Custos family, a silver ring bearing the crest of the Bard Guild, some black velvet trousers, a pair of black hawk-winged boots emblazoned with the Custos family crest, a kyanite gwethdesuan, a jadeite gwethdesuan and a sturdy black backpack.
Mercenary Cimbaa Paww'Tender of The Locksmith Union, a Prydaen.
He has pointed ears and cat-slitted crystal green eyes. His golden brown mane is very long and thick, and is worn pulled back in a multitude of beaded braids. He has golden fur with a white belly and a slender tail.
He is young for a Prydaen.
He has a tattoo of a roaring lion with its claws seeming to rip through the skin on his chest.
He has faint scuffing to the right hand, faint scuffing to the left hand.
He is in good shape.
He is holding a glass of red tequila in his right hand and a glass of apple barrel whiskey in his left.
He is wearing some stalking leathers, some falconer's gauntlets, an ivory-fanged leather cougar mask, some forest green boots with bronze wren-shaped buckles, a heavy silver clasp etched with an open coin purse over crossed stilettos, a gleaming animite key, some black broadcloth pants with a row of gold coins stitched up the side, a black cloak, a jade green tail pouch, a jade green journey pack, a buckskin quiver, an onyx spider ring, a red gem pouch, a Nisha short bow, an herb pouch, a white gold eyebrow ring and a superb snowbeast-pelt harness.
Coroman Crea'trag of Elanthia, a Kaldaran Warrior Mage.
He has milky blue eyes. His grey hair is very long and straight, and is worn tied back. He has tanned skin.
He is fairly young for a Kaldar.
He has a long thick mustache on his upper lip.
He has some faint scars along the left arm, some faint scars along the chest, some faint scars along the abdomen.
He is in good shape.
He is wearing a fine mesh backpack, a carved wooden amulet, a herb pouch, a dagger arm sheath, a long mesh weapon harness, a dented copper earring, a thin bronze ring, a thin pewter ring, a purple gem pouch, a tarnished silver amulet engraved with odd symbols, some steel-toed boots burned with the crest of the Warrior Mage guild, a cambrinth neckband wrapped with leather strips burned with charging boars, a cambrinth ring, a cambrinth ring, some pitch-black leathers and an ironwood buckler.
Cynaera Le'Domina, a Rakash.
She has crystal blue eyes, a fawn and sable coat with sable masking and a slender tail.
She is young for a Rakash.
She has faint scuffing to the neck, faint scuffing to the right arm, faint scuffing to the left arm, faint scuffing to the right leg, faint scuffing to the left leg, faint scuffing to the left hand, cuts and bruises about the abdomen.
She is holding a tall glass of red wine in her right hand.
She is wearing a heavily studded targe, an ornate scabbard, a blued-steel dragon-shaped earring, a pewter snapdragon pin, some charcoal leather thigh-boots, a blood-wolf-pelt quiver, a blood-wolf-pelt scabbard, a home-made gargoyle-hide journeypack, a blood red linen hip pouch woven in black with dancing barbarians, some black slim pants, a crimson robe ornately stitched with threads of gold and silver, an onyx-rimmed cambrinth ring etched with the crest of the Warrior Mage Guild, a burnished gold armband embossed with a smooth scroll design, a leather belt pouch and a pair of emerald earrings.
Daerlynn Soulmyste-Falconsong of Elanthia, a Human Bard.
She has jade eyes. Her brunette hair is shoulder length and straight, and is worn in a simple, loose style. She has pale skin and a lissome figure.
She is young for a Human.
She has a tattoo of a whirling sword dancer with dual blades raised in fierce salute on her leg.
She is in good shape.
She is wearing a platinum-edged flute case set with star-shaped diamonds, a bijou jade promise ring inlaid with a silver heron gripping a harp in her beak, a dark grey messenger's satchel reinforced with thick black leather, a dark blue bandolier embroidered with an exquisitely detailed violin, a patchwork gypsy drawstring purse, a delicate platinum neithrel band wrapped with a harp string, a piece of black string dangling a thin brass ring, a dainty silvery lace garter threaded with vivid blue ribbons, a silvery buckskin harness, a mirrored turpeer, a carved pick, some silvered chain woven over the heart with steelsilk links forming a white dove bearing a broken sword, a forest green linen peasant blouse with a loose and daring neckline and a multi-colored tiered gypsy skirt that is gathered up high on one side.
Troubadour Dewsong deRosa, an Elothean Bard.
He has tilted almond-shaped milky blue eyes. His silver hair is shoulder length and thick, and is worn feathered back from his face in a windblown look. He has tanned skin.
He is in his prime for an Elothean.
He is clean shaven.
He is in good shape.
He is holding a mug of amber ale in his right hand and a flagon of Elven frostwynne in his left.
He is wearing an elegant plumed hat, a dusty rose sack, a platinum jadeite gwethdesuan, a dark blue ankle sheath bearing a black stylized dragon, some dark green velvet boots embroidered with twining roses, a double-wrapped leather sword belt tooled with wandering rose vines, some crimson steel-rimmed spectacles, a paper-covered brass button, a dusty rose pick, a small rose-etched pin, a creamy white silk tabard intricately embroidered with a shimmering golden harp, a crystal rose pendant, a dusty rose pouch, a dusty rose bag, a jangling golden hip-chain set with carved ivory roses, a silver earring in the shape of a shield emblazoned with a heart, a brass-riveted leather travel pack embroidered with golden lutes and wandering rose vines, a marqueterie copperleaf locket, an etched silver medallion, a spiral silver neithrel band set with small fire opals, a narrow jade wedding band inlaid with a twining golden rose, an amethyst engagement ring, a delicate gold rose ring, some darned rose socks, a rose quartz anklet, a dusty rose cloak, a yellow Insanity rose, a delicate pink rosebud, a deep crimson silk rose embroidered lightly in silver threading, a fragile black diamond rose, a wild red rose, a dusky silk rose, a dark red spidersilk rose with blushing petals, a delicate crimson rose, a dew-kissed rose, a lavender rose, a faded rose suede vest, a billowing white shirt with pleated ruffs on the collar and cuffs, some rich red pleated wool breeches embroidered with golden lutes and wandering rose vines and a silvery satin rosette.
Digmo McDog, an Elothean.
He has tilted almond-shaped milky blue eyes. His snow-white-streaked grey hair is very long and wavy, and is worn tied back. He has weathered skin.
He is middle-aged for an Elothean.
He is clean shaven.
He is in good shape.
He is wearing a dwarven great helm, a chain hauberk, some mail gloves, a blue braided leather weapon harness, a simple deep black robe belted with a length of knotted leather, a crimson rose, some frayed leather shoes, a crystal skull, a dark leather backpack with a highly polished silver badge pinned on the side and a jadeite gwethdesuan.
Tale Singer Donalisa DeLondra of the Tavern Troupe Performing Order, a Prydaen Bard.
She has pointed ears and cat-slitted violet eyes. Her black mane is long and thick, and is worn loose. She has silver fur with black points with black stripes and a slender tail.
She is young for a Prydaen.
She has faint scuffing to the head, tiny scratches to the right leg, faint scuffing to the left leg, faint scuffing to the left eye.
She is in good shape.
She is holding a cup of taffelberry rum punch in her right hand.
She is wearing a multi-hued hamaz paute, a soft leather thigh pouch embroidered with a shimmering dragon playing a hunting horn, a fiery scarlet haversack, a fine chain hauberk painted with multi-colored diamonds, a glimmering circlet of sweet gardenias entwined with crystal strands, a black leather bullwhip, an elegant white mesh backpack with dangling onyx musical note charms, a vivid green satin rosette, a black tankard-shaped badge etched with the insignia of the Tavern Troupe, a rich blue silk-covered case, a jadeite gwethdesuan, a cured leather sling stitched with musical notes, some ankle-high Elven stalking boots with dangling onyx panther charms, some onyx worry beads carved to resemble curled panthers, a silver panther-shaped