RP:A Bard's Plea
Part of the Wholehearted Wanderers Arc
Summary: An open invitation to enjoy drinks at the Bard’s Guild beckons new and old faces alike. With the crowd gathered, the current guild caretaker issues a plea for those who are part of the guild or looking to join to assist with a special mission. The plea gathers many interested eyebrows from those without bardic ability, which opens the floor as to how sensitive information will be disseminated. A new adventure takes form!
Bard's Guild
Serene music plays in this area as a woman blows into a pitch pipe looking instrument, the sounds quickly calming you, almost putting you to sleep. She continues to play her object, the skills of this musician astounding and awe inspiring as she easily transforms mere notes into an awesome melody of mixed harmonies. You begin to get even more sleepy, though you spy a door behind her, perhaps you could get to it, if you weren't so tired and suddenly craving to leave this place as a nap is not on your daily agenda.
Kanna has her usual setup of research materials and notebooks isolated to a corner of the room today, but there is something different about the Bards' Guild today. The calming music is a bit more lively, and drinks have been set up along a sign that says 'Welcome Back, Bards!' The human looks at the keepers of the current Guild, happy to have been able to help at least set up the party as the first few people roll in.
Quintessa was disguised as the blonde feline Astanet today, the songstress from Chartsend- at least that was the cover story she had been giving people. She had managed to gain some acclaim already, accepting singing roles whenever they popped up in Cenril, but now she was starting to do real networking. She was going to meet with *real* bards. It was a good thing Quintessa was as good an actress as she was a singer, so she could mask the nervousness that was creeping around her throat as she approached the gathering. She has no idea what to expect, but she hopes she can at least attempt to secure membership while she’s here.
Kanna gives the people who come in a smile and a greeting. Though her image alone precedes her for those coming from certain regions, she’ll take the time to introduce herself as a volunteer that has been helping the main two. The main two being the violet-dressed dwarf Acanthus and the bardess that keeps her name secret who calls this stage home. Dressed every bit as elegantly as the meeting area’s plush velvet seating and golden chandeliers, Acanthus’ golden beard and hair is perfectly curled, with a single purple amethyst fashioned into a treble clef clipping the braids adorning her beard into a fine tapered point. Kanna walks up to the feline woman and the half-elf that comes in behind her, giving them an eager smile. “You both look nervous, and trust me when I say there is no reason to be. Everyone is here because we love the same things.” The human woman stands only a head taller than the tallest of dwarves, and contrary to the other two bards dressed in musical regalia, Kanna wears a bright sky-blue robe adorned with illusory patterns of flower petals drifting across a sky.
Quintessa, as Astanet, wears a simple, white dress with tiny cherries sewn into the design, a red ribbon to match the fruit tying her long blonde hair back into a messy bun. Her lips and nails are painted the same color red, and she walks around barefoot, the soles of her feet almost black from the dirt. She gives Kanna a fanged smile when she finally addresses them, her yellow eyes snapping away from the others gathered. “I know but…” Her smile becomes a bashful grin, “I’ve sorta always been a fan of you, I guess. It’s hard not to feel a little nervous.”
In contrast to those who had already arrived, well composed in finery and demeanor alike, Esyra could scarce compare. As if hesitant to attract aught in the way of attention, those who have had chance to meet with the witch would recognize her common attire - the concealing cloak and voluminous hood that served well to deny undue interest, despite their otherwise excellent make and measure. Perhaps as a gesture of good will, or simply a means by which to better observe what she assumed to be a lively crowd, the sable silk of her slightly worn hood was removed to bear a curious, if somewhat reserved, countenance to the assembly, the ghost of a smile playing across her lips. Here, she took to a wall nearer to the entrance, and observed with evident interest the proceedings afoot. When Kanna offers aloud her introductions, Esyra's smile grows ever-so-slightly warmer, and she acknowledges each in turn with a faint dip of her chin.
Tamsin watches as Kanna approaches. Warmth matches warmth as Tamsin offers a smile. “Not much of a singer. Well, that’s a lie, I sing just a little bit. If anything I thought it’d be fun to stop by because one might say I’m light on my feet.” She gives a little elbow nudge in a goofy manner. Was that too much? Quickly she tucks some windblown hair behind her ear. “Also, well, I know there might be some artists about which can be refreshing to know.” The girl automatically sticks out her hand in greeting. “Tamsin Saraan, by the way. Were you the one singing at Mesthak's birthday?”
Kanna tilts her head slightly, a hint of color rising to her cheeks as Astanet speaks. “A fan of me?” She asks with her smile quirking in a way that betrays embarrassment and a tone that genuinely conveys that she feels surprised to have those who have heard her music and are fans. “Well, thank you, but I promise that I am not the most talented bard here.” To Tasmin, she hands her a flute of the pink champagne, which gives a faint aroma of wild strawberries and shakes her head with a more relaxed smile. “Nonsense, everyone is welcome here, whether you play an instrument, have the ability to channel bardic magic or not, or express yourself in other ways.” Kanna turns her head to the dwarven woman, who nods approvingly at the impromptu pitch. “Kanna Tsuji, and yes, a friend asked me to do a little something for the dwarf of the hour.” To Esyra, Kanna’s eyes light up with recognition. “Those who are curious about the way bardic magic can be channelled and used are also more than welcome.”
To this, Esyra lifts a hand in greeting via a strange open-palm gesture, the soft green of her oft-intense gaze leveled upon Kanna for a breath's span longer than might be appropriate for a casual glance by way of silent recognition ere they resume their intrigued sweep of the venue.
Tamsin took the offer of the flute handed to her. “Nice to meet you, Kanna. Your voice is very good.” To the others, she nods to each in a friendly gesture. Esrya appeared familiar from a night at the bar. A brief passing. Both the blonde and the witch are offered a smile before she lifts the flute and takes a sip. Tamsin then turns to check out the room and wanders to take in the atmosphere of the guild.
Instead of Kanna, it is Acanthus this time that steps forward, playing a single note on the immaculately polished golden panflute around her neck. It is an instrument that Esyra will recognize as being similar to the silver toned one that she helped Kanna recover back in the streets of Kelay. “My dearest bards and guests, please do not feel unwelcome because of the level you believe your ability to be at. There is something beautiful in each and every heart, and it is our duty as bestowed upon us by Daedria to help you express it, whether it is by song, by writing, or by craft.” The nameless bardess pipes up as well, motioning for the stage. “If any of you would like to showcase your talents, the stage is free for any who would like to try it.” Kanna whispers loud enough for the witch and the aeromancer to hear, “I also heard that they may be asking something of those who want to become part of the Guild today.”
Kailani was never really good at these social gatherings, yet the blue-haired druid wanders into view the gathering area. Honestly, she was here in search of someone in particular. A certain barbarian with a very intense love of music. A bardbarian some have coined him. Except, Orion is nowhere in sight and Kailani is left feeling a little flustered at the situation she has created for herself. Does she…stay and be awkward? Does she…awkwardly turn and leave without even saying hi to anyone? Or does she…awkwardly panic. Yes, it’s the last one. She is going to be awkward and inwardly panic because she walked into a space with a lot of unfamiliar faces.
Amidst Kanna's sidelong whisper, Esyra arches a delicate brow, as if to question the nature of her mention. Should Kanna be close enough within whisper's reach still, the witch would offer in similar tone a faintly lilting, "What think you of me to possess that might well serve to entertain a place of talent such as this? These skills are well outside my own, whatever prose might form my thoughts, and I would shy to conceive of aught save premeditated tale."
Kanna playfully wags a finger at the vampiress. “One never knows where they might find unrecognised talent, nor where inspiration will appear.” She lights up when she sees a beautifully familiar head of deep ocean blue hair come through the doors. “Kailani!” Though the Venturilian may not remember Kanna’s face, Kanna certainly recognizes her. There is a hint of exhaustion on Kanna’s features as she crosses the room, but the mask of the bard does well to allay any concerns of sleeplessness. “I’m so glad that you’re feeling better after… well…” No need to mention it; everyone is eager to forget. Acanthus steps towards Tasmin. “If you’d like, I could coordinate you with members who have chosen to share their contact information for any opportunities that may arise. What trade is it that you specialise in?”
Nortengaal, despite being in an unfamiliar area, is feeling at ease as he ambles on into the open house, humming an aimless tune to himself as he walks. Held in his hands are the familiar custom ‘toys’, his metal yo-yos, and as he walks he practices various throws and tricks, always working on getting better and better at using the items. Finishing up with a flourish, he slips the yo-yos off his hands and into their home pouches on his waist, still humming quietly as he surveys the room, ruby eyes stopping on each face in turn, only one does he really recognize at all, the ‘winner’ of last nights drinking contest that he’d walked in on. For the time being, he’ll wait a few moments before attempting to mingle, getting a feel for the vibe of the place.
Kailani was in the middle of trying to decide how to handle her current dilemma when Kanna interrupts her panicked thoughts with a greeting. “I am feeling quite well, thank you. This is your party that you are hosting, yes? Orion was quite excited…I thought for sure he would be here to do things with music. And I figured I would try and show up and show my support?” That’s what girlfriends are supposed to do their musician boyfriends, right? “Except now that I am here, I do not see him, and you are the only person I know. Would you mind introducing me?” Yes, this seems like the more socially acceptable alternative to turning tail and abandoning the party of strangers. As much as it is probably inwardly paining the poor introvert to make this request.
Tamsin stops in her tracks for a moment as she catches that whisper, although her back is turned. She turns her head to the side, and although there is a room full of strangers, the aeromancer is bold enough to face the crowd, and she notices that Acanthus approaches. “Jewelry making, but… as for stage… dance. I’ve been meaning to find a fun, playful group of dancers and singers. I could show a little something. Actually one of my brothers, Lúthien, was supposed to be here. He dabbles in a bit of piano. He doesn’t want to join the guild, but I think he wanted to enjoy the mingling atmosphere. Once he’s here, maybe he can spend a little time on the stage."
Arysel arrived a little later than she had planned to. She hadn’t known exactly what to wear if this was a fancy gathering or a semi-casual soiree so she had opted simply to go as is with a black bodice cut in a way that would not interfere with her wings, supple black fitted pants and boots. Her snow-white hair was pulled back into a loose braid; a thin gold circlet rested against her forehead with the rest hidden beneath the tamed tresses. Pale icey blue eyes surveyed the attendees a moment before she made her way easily towards Kanna. Arysel waits for a pause in conversation before bowing her head respectfully, “Good evening, Kanna. It is good to see you again. I hope you are well and enjoying your party?” She could see the tell-tale signs of exhaustion and wondered if the bard had been too long studying her books.
Kanna gives a soft laugh and answers Kailani, “I am only a volunteer for this event. It seems that the current roster of guild members has been damaged, and older copies show information from members who may have gone onto other things or that may have inaccurate for getting in touch with members. From what I understand, there is a matter that requires as many hands as possible, which is the real cause for the event. Since I have always found this place a comforting respite and they do not charge me rent for studying here, I could assist in their preparations.” Kanna nods her head. “I’d love to introduce you, I believe I am meeting most of these people for the first time as well.” She catches wind of Tasmin’s introduction and raises an eyebrow with a giddy smile. “Though your accessories might be of a more natural nature, I think you two might have a mutual interest.. Kailani, this is Tasmin Saraan. Tasmin, do you do work with earthly material as well as metals?” Kanna takes a step back to let the two introverts get acquainted as Arysel approaches. “It’s great to see you again as well! I am not sure if you overheard, but it appears the current guild keeper may have a project for us bards, if you would be so inclined.” To Nortengaal, Kanna offers a flute of champagne that smells slightly like wild strawberries, along with a wink as a silent message that she understands if he needs to spend some time as a wallflower for the moment, as it seems Astanet and Esyra are doing as well.
With nary a word or aught to explain, save to catch Kanna's eye with a hopefully sufficient nod, Esyra makes way to slip out the door. She may well return if time permits, but for now other matters call her away.
Kailani is sort of glad that Kanna did not end up dragging her around the room to meet literally everyone. That would honestly be a bit overwhelming for the poor druid. She’s trying. Anyway, Kanna leaves her with Tamsin. The druid greets the unfamiliar woman with a soft smile and extends a hand toward Tamsin for a proper introduction. “Kailani. It is nice to meet you, Tamsin.” The blue-haired woman leaves this introduction short and sweet, mostly because she is curious to what sort of materials Tamsin works with.
Arysel offers a warm smile for Kanna, "Of course. Anything I can do to assist the guild." It did hold a special place in her heart, after all. Not wanting to take up any more time and to allow for mingling, the avian bows slightly from the waist and wanders away, pausing to converse briefly with the lady dwarf and the unnamed stage singer. At some point, Arysel has a flute of champagne herself and sips it sparingly. It's never a good idea to drink and fly.
Tamsin is not as bashful as the blue-haired woman, but still awkward enough with new people. Mostly because all she did was fill the air with too many words at times. Was Lúthien bailing out on her? Either way, full attention is on the druid and with a content smile, her hand is grasping the stranger’s in return in greeting. “Kailani, I like that name. Reminds me of the sea.” Not to mention, Kailani had blue hair which was also like the sea, but that one was a no-brainer for this narrator. “I do work with more than metals because I do like pretty trinkets. I search for stones and gems around Lithrydel. It’s a great way to travel, which is nice because sometimes a girl needs to get away from Chartsend.” A small exhale blows at the thought. "Are you a Bard's Guild member?"
Nortengaal accepts the champagne flute with a smile and a nod of thanks, lifting the glass to his nose first to take in the sweet scent of the drink before he downs half the glass in one go. Given the casual air of the event, he figures it’s not too much of a faux pas, and he resumes his looking around, content for the moment to give little nods of greeting to the folks who catch his wandering eye. Oddly enough, he’s finding that stage calling his attention, despite his lack of musical bent. Mostly he’s thinking about perhaps doing a little repeat of the yo-yo show he did back at the beach bash, but he’ll need some more upbeat music to go along with should he decide to get up there.
As uncertain as Kailani can be when it comes to meeting new people, Tamsin already manages to hit on a few points that causes the druid’s expression to brighten. “I am not a Bard’s Guild member…I don’t know that I could ever be okay with so much attention on me.” Stage fright would be real for the druid. “Orion is the talented one.” Still, Kanna was right and the two may have some common ground after all, “But, I am a druid who spends quite a bit of time traveling.” Druids probably know things about stones and gems, right? “And when I am not traveling, I reside in Venturil. Almost on the border of Chartsend. I wander that way frequently…For the sea.”
One of the key characteristics of a trained bard is to learn how to read the room. Our unnamed bardess, who has been surveying the scenery as Kanna and Acanthus did all the heavy social lifting, takes note of the way the burly man keeps flickering his crimson eyes at the stage. Aha. She takes her leave of the guild’s current and former caretakers with a bow of the head and slips onto the stage to take her usual position. Only, it is slightly different from usual, as she has moved her stool from the center of the stage to a spot that takes less attention. With a flourish that produces her lyre in a whisper of bardic magic, the woman begins to liven the room up with jauntier music that one might expect at a faire or bazaar to accompany the welcome sounds of voices filling up the Bard’s Guild lounge.
Orion randomly appears by Kailani's side. He's snacking on some freshly made beef jerky from back home while tapping his foot to any bits of music being played, "Isn't this great?!" Such a happy bardbarian!
Kanna takes the momentary reprieve to poke her head outside of the doors to the public guild lounge. Surely, there were more bards out there, weren't there?
Tamsin parts her lips at the thought of an Orion. What was an Orion? Then again, a larger bardbarian appears with meat. Tamsin is trying to connect the dots. “Oh! Rion!” She clips it together. “It’s okay, I was hesitant coming here. My family likes to call me impulsive, which is how I ended up here. Performance isn’t for everyone, and even then, I’m more of a crafter than an actual performer. I was just looking into this as a connection to new hobbies.” The music begins to liven up the room, and Tamsin begins to nod her head a bit to the melody being played. “Next door neighbors! Well, at least in towns. Huh, I’ll have to catch you on the seaside one day,” she smiles. She then looks at the barbarian. "Do you play?"
Kailani should have guessed that the one thing to keep Orion away from his love of music would be his love of food. Kai can’t help but smirk. “Ori, this is Tamsin. She lives out near us, in Chartsend. She makes jewelry.” The half elf nods eagerly at the thought of encountering Tamsin by the sea one of these days. That does not sound like an unpleasant way to spend her time. With a question now posed to the barbarian standing beside her, Kai tilts her gaze upward so that she can give Orion his attention while he answers Tamsin.
Orion snaps off another piece of jerky just as Tamsin asks him a question. His cheeks get as red as Mesthak's face when someone is trying to burn down the Kelay Tavern. He smiles through chewing up his bite of jerky while offering Tamsin the rest of his. Manners, Orion. Finally, the answer to her question, "Oh. I mean.." He looks at the floor and innocently brushes at it with his foot, "I dabble.."
Silvaria was unsure of why she was drawn to come here; she didn't have a musical bone in her whole body and she usually wasn't the social type. Having to mentally note to herself that the atmosphere was nice, calm and safe feeling. Much like the space the forest creates when she's there. Well, since she was here she might as well enjoy the music for a bit.
Tamsin waves a hand insisting that he eats the rest of the jerky he offered. Two bashful people. It made her grin all the more. "You should dabble on stage!" Clearly it was an enthusiastic suggestion, and of course she might have been overstepping, but Tamsin was an impulsive person.
Kailani smiles at Orion’s bashfulness, it was pretty adorable. Tamsin’s suggestion that Orion dabble on stage is met with an enthusiastic nod from Kailani. “Yes, you should. Please. For me?” Like he’d refuse her. Plus, his joining the guild was the main reason that ventured out here.
Arysel moved to stand at the edge of the gathered, snowy wings ruffling slightly as she settles in. The musician on the stage gathers her attention while she continues to sip from the flute. Curious that the unnamed bard pulls her stool from the spotlight. The music she plays though has the avian tapping her toe in time. She hadn't brought her own lyre this time otherwise she might have joined in with harmony.
Kanna takes note of the new entrant to the party and takes the opportunity to approach. "Welcome! Are you interested in joining or interested in observing?" Kanna holds up a choice of two drinks for the foxkin: hot tea or a flute of champagne. It was only during a brief sideline with Acanthus that Kanna was informed that offering choices might be more welcoming.
Orion looks to his side at Kailani at the mention of playing on stage. Here? Now? This is one time he's going to have to turn Kailani down as well as Tamsin. Ori looks back to Tamsin with a slightly embarrassed look. Don't get him wrong. He loves to play, but he's not prepared. Didn't even bring his special instrument with him and he definitely didn't warm his vocal chords. He wouldn't be able to do that in this room anyways. The whole thing might collapse! Since he wants to keep his proper manners going, he politely declines, "Oh. No thank you, Miss Tamsin. I would like to be an observer tonight. Helps me get ideas for myself. D-do you play?"
Once the nameless bardess’ song has concluded, Acanthus steps onto the stage to clap her hands together. Even this motion is as refined as the perfectly tamed beard that continues to sway like a metronome. “It warms my heart to see this lounge so full of life again! There is a matter at hand that I would like to discuss with those who came because they feel inclined towards the bardic arts. Due to the sensitive nature, we cannot go into too much detail publicly, but it has come to our attention that there are many artifacts across the lands of Lithrydel and Rynvale that were once under the care and protection of the Bard’s Guild. Our numbers are not as great as they once were, and those of us who still watch over the Guild’s assets between leaderships are not in any condition to be traveling and possibly fighting to have those items returned.” Kanna’s hand flies up to her mouth in surprise. “That is why there were no resources on-hand aside from the tomes…” She says aloud, her eyes drifting to the corner of the room with her traveling satchel and books stacked neatly on the table. The nameless bardess nods her head in confirmation. “While we lack bard-specific resources, we can offer gold compensation to those Bard’s Guilds members willing to assist us in these endeavors.”
Tamsin nods at the decline. “It’s okay, I totally get it!” Eyes glance at the door after Orion asks if she played. “No, I don’t. One of my brothers play which he was supposed to be here, but he clearly bailed. Or got lost,” she shrugged. “I’m more of someone who likes to feel music and enjoy it. A little dance here and there.” There is a mildly shy tone. Hazel eyes stare at the door again. “Speaking of family, I am quite annoyed or… I don’t know. Luthien is always late to these things. I’m going to go hunt him down,” she grumbles. “It was nice meeting you two. Perhaps we will cross paths again! You two seem really nice.” A very easy smile crosses her features. “Until next time!” She downs her flute of champagne before placing it on a nearby empty tray and slipping past the guests out the door.
Kailani was refused. Alas, Kai would not really get uspet with Ori over not wanting to play, she herself was of the shy variety. She was just content to partake in the conversation until Tamsin announces it was time to go. “It was nice to meet you too.” Hopefully they would meet again. “She seemed really nice. I wonder what sort of jewelry she makes. I bet it is very pretty.” Not that Kailani was typically the sort to wear jewelry but she could appreciate the craft. Kailani’s attention shifts from Orion and toward Acanthus when steps on the stage and commands the attention onto herself. Kailani listens intently, only sparing the occasional look up at Ori to see his reaction to it all. Admittedly the druid was still tired from Xicotl. And then Caluss after that. Was this something that she really needed to help with? That brief thought is pushed aside by guilt for such selfish thinking.
Arysel subtly comes to attention when Acanthus takes the stage. Almost expecting another performance, Arysel is surprised to find another reason for this gathering but not a whole lot given her brief conversation with Kanna. She listened, arctic eyes widening at mention of Rynvale. It has been a long time since she had ventured to the island. Wings tremble with excitement or trepedition, it was hard to decide but she knew then, even after assuring Kanna she would help, Arysel was going to help find these artifacts and bring them back to the guild. She may no longer be on the roster of members, but it changed nothing in that she felt a certain loyalty and guilt regarding the guild.
Silvaria 's ear perked up at Kanna's voice as they offered her a refreshment and a question. Clearing her throat softly she spoke. "Oh, Hello. I'm here to observe, I don't have a musical bone in my body. I just enjoy the melodies. Also; I'd love a hot tea please." Smiling at Kanna.
Nortengaal notes the change in musical atmosphere, and moves his body a little bit along with the music, tapping his foot and swaying a little in tune. His good spirits are further lifted by the music, and he’s feeling compelled to move, finishing his flute of champagne with a second gulp as his fingers start to tap along the glass. Placing the empty glass on a convenient nearby surface, the bearman makes his way over to the stage, grooving through the assembled folks with a surprising ease, each step sure as he slips and pivots around the few people in his direct line to the stage. Right as he was preparing to get up on the stage, the song ends and his reverie is lessened, if not quite broken. He claps along with the person on stage, and listens as she explains the current plight of the Bards Guild. Search and retrieve eh? The bearman rubs his chin thoughtfully. He’s got a fair bit on his plate at the moment, but that being the case, it would be easy enough to keep an ear to the ground to see what might turn up.
Orion waved to Tamsin as she made her exit, "Nice to meet you, Miss!" He then looks to Kai and nods, "She does seem nice. We have neighbors!" He was about to ask something to Kailani about what her plans were after they left here or something along those lines and maybe a wink and a wiggle of his beard but Acanthus grabs Orion's attention immediately. The bardbarian listens carefully to Acanthus and after it's known that the Bard's Guild needs some extra help, Orion shoots his hand straight into the air, "I can help!" However, his hand drops to his side quickly as he looks at his love, Kailani, "If that's okay with you.." Manners. Kai was the boss. Sometimes. Most of the time..Yeah.
Kailani was the boss? It was probably a good thing for Orion that he picked someone who viewed him as her equal and partner. She might be tired from all the other helping that she has done but Orion’s enthusiasm warms her introverted little heart. As tired as Kai might be, she will not deny Orion this want and confirms, “We will help.”
Kailani takes hold of Orion’s large hand so that she can place a delicate smooch on it. “I will meet you out by Grimclaw.” Ori’s hand is released and then Kai is on her way. The druid might have had her fill of socialization for the night, but she was not about to rush Ori home.
Arysel 's soft voice floated clearly to be heard above the murmurs and acceptance of others, "I will help as well." She set the half-empty champagne flute on the nearest surface before taking her leave, not before, however, making plans to return soon and speak to Acantha and Kanna about the details of the objects in question.
Nortengaal raises a hand and asks his question once he’s been recognized. “I’m not a member of the guild, can I still help? This seems like an interesting endeavor.”
Acanthus moves to speak, her brows furrowing in disapproval, but Kanna pipes up before the dwarven woman can speak. "If you are accompanied by or are assisting a current guild member, then that should be more than enough help!" The dwarven woman shoots Kanna a disapproving scowl before the human adds, "Though not all bards are equipped for combat, I'm sure no one is quite mad enough to face off against someone who blinded the former Titan of Winter over a trinket, right?" The nameless bard takes note of all who are volunteering in the shadows of the stage, but aside from this, Acanthus seems pleased. "I will send out correspondences to items I believe may be in a place close to you, whether geographically or socially." With a curtsey, she motions for the bardess to resume her jaunty melody, and takes her leave of the stage in a flash of illusory magic, leaving only amethyst and golden butterflies to flit off into the illusioned ceiling.
Orion just fell in love with Kailani a bunch more as she volunteers as well. What an amazing..Wife? Partner? There wasn't a ceremony or anything, but they know neither of them are going anywhere. Maybe they'll discuss that later? Anywho. Orion will be patiently waiting for correspondences if it's decided he and Kailani could be of use. The bardbarian smiles from cheek to cheek as he gathers up a tea on his way out and may or may not have jumped up to click his heels before exiting. Is it time for the bardbarian to bash some skulls? Let's hope so!
Though soft-spoken in her return, Esyra offers a halting reply, "I have little to offer, save wit enough to survive - nor am I of a persuasion inclined, at present, to bardic pursuits - but should there be a bard proper that lacks for companion's support, I could well volunteer to aid." After another moment's pause, should no disapproving glare be immediately forthcoming, she might add, "While rare it is to offer such to all and sundry, herein lies a cause that might well find benefit from one art, a thing with which I am passing familiar - that of sympathetic witchcraft. The details, should it be of interest, I can discuss anon, in more...suitable venue." And here she returns to silence.
Kanna smiles, taking Acanthus' departure as a sign that she would approve of Kanna's caveat. So long as her mind was preoccupied with the repairs of her beloved instrument or the recovery of items for the Bard's Guild, she will recruit whoever she needs to in order to keep away from her nightmares.
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