RP:Moved By Her Moves
This is a Bard's Guild RP.
Summary: Lanara ventures by the college and discovers a purpose for her alongside Dean Smyth
Main Hall
After finding your way through the Topiary Garden it would only be fitting to come upon a building which looks like a section taken right out of any castle in the same style as all of Schezerade, in all its decadence; marble forming the entirety of the large building accented with gold and platinum in which you'll have to cross over a glass bridge in order to reach it. The front door is welcoming for all shapes and sizes that are the citizens of Hollow and spans a great distance in it's solid French Door of a design. Opening it up one might be perplexed at the ability for the fortress to hold such music coming from the main hall there with all of the astute students practicing their talents. | Once immersed, the eyes might be stolen by the gaping cathedral ceilings above, spotted by gold and platinum in which encircle mini glowing stones to mimic the night sky, but beauty is not what the ceiling is for; it carries one's voice in the most pleasing fashion. This main hall is quite a vast oval-shaped room, but the walls are shelves, carved into small diamond shapes. Each slot contains a scroll to nearly any song someone might wish to hear or practice in it's magic. Among the marvelous white-wood, gold-accented, concert grand piano in the middle of this large room there are a plethora of nearly every musical instrument imaginable, one just has to look.
Nearing further into the castle one's nostrils might pick up on the scent of mouth watering food being cooked wafting from the kitchen which is north of the main room and it also holds an elegant dining area containing a handful of small tables. In the corner of this kitchen there is a winding staircase which travels below where students are bustling to and fro. If you wish to stay, grab your favorite spirits from the well stocked kitchen and listen to the bardic magics, relax in one of the many luxurious sofas strewn about these two areas. Off to the east corner of the main hall, there is a | locked staircase with an outreaching design in onyx stone overlay which is seemingly inking over into the pristine luxury you’ve found yourself in. It's as if the area above holds a darkness that's attempting to leak out into this little slice of heaven… Better just leave that door alone.
Brennia sits within the main hall of the bard’s college, which is always open to any and all, but I digress. She was in a slightly rare form with her velvety onyx wings draped around her like a cloak as if protecting herself from something, but her warm smile offsets that anything at all is wrong. Wavy and silky raven tendrils nearly disappear into the color of her wings making it unclear where one ended and the other began. She was talking with another professor, Minerva Valios, in front of a small group of Bard students as she was expressing her issue on a performance number. Minerva’s thick irish accent carries well within the cathedral ceilings of the main hall, “I’m not too practiced in rhythmics, sure I can strum a lyre, but I’m certain you saw some of my ‘talent’ at the Promenade.” This got a scattered of giggles from the students near them and any uptight professor might look at this as insult, but even Minerva cracked a half smile. Brennia’s almost melodic sultry alto timbre swims on the air as if coating it in a heavy smoke, but it was so inviting and warm like you could cuddle up next to the fire in it, “I see… I will write up a public posting and head out when the sun goes down.” Speaking of, it is or was a lovely day, but walking within the castle every window is temporarily painted over and the only light was floating candelabras and firefly sconces against the walls. It was beautiful and bright enough, but something was definitely off.
Lanara treks through the topiary gardens, walks over the glass bridge, and eventually stands before the massive castle doors. Never before had the elf seen such an exquisite establishment, and she pauses before the French-style door, and runs her fingertips over the solid marble. The castle seemed to be a learning center of sorts, though it was far different from her academy of arcane magic from back home. The richness of the place seemed to spill from every beam, every flower, and… Was that music playing? Always the curious little lady, she hesitates before closing her hand around the handle of the large door. A glance would be given over her slender shoulder as her chocolate hues rest on the long bridge she had taken to get to this very doorstep. Should she proceed? A nip of her lower lip would ensue, before she gives a tug on the doorknob and steps into the confines of the foreign college. The melodic sound of a piano has Lana meandering through the halls, peering into each room, and offering a faint smile to a student that couldn’t be more than ten years old. The blonde girl lifts her head so suddenly at the sight of the newcomer that her pigtails swish from side to side and she fumbles on the keys. “Oh! I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt. I was just, um, lost… I… You see…” Lana’s cheeks turn a light shade of pink as she stammers to explain why she was roaming the halls of the college. How exactly would she explain that she was an ex-stripper seeking a less demeaning form of work? The child merely blinks at her, flips her music sheet, and resumes playing the piano, which in turn gives Lana the excuse she needs to slip out of the room as quickly as she had entered. A few moments later, Lana stands in what she assumes is the main hallway, and watches the flurry of students passing her in every direction, heading to classes, lunch, or merely chatting with friends. The building has a comfortable feel to it, and everyone that catches her eye gives a curt nod or a smile, so she relaxes a bit and steps into a room where several are gathered and giggling is audible. Professor Minerva is the first to notice Lana, and she immediately approaches and extends a hand, one which Lana graciously accepts, before she shifts her gaze and sees the stunning avian. Silken, ebony locks, wings, and that exotic accent could only mean one being. Brennia. The elf wasn’t completely oblivious to the land of Schezerade, and although she considered herself to be a loner, she made it a point to keep up with the happenings around Hollow. The blue-eyed avian beauty was the owner of the establishment, and she also was the one that threw a baby shower for Queen Josleen! “You are much prettier in person, Lady Brennia. I am Lanara. I… I have some skills that may be of some use to your college. Perhaps we can talk, in private, if you have a moment? I have come all the way from Kelay to meet with you.”
Brennia watches as her colleague greets the newcomer before a plethora of students, all varying in age from young to old, welcome Lanara with a, “merry meet!” The headmistress graciously awaits the excited pleasantries to die down and she smiles warmly at the compliment which is a sign of confidence not arrogance or conceit. Her smile only spreads from the flattery that this stranger came such a long way to meet with her and a little nugget of pride swells for her college has grown in just one year of operation to acquire such a call. Any of this isn’t visible on her neutral expression when she responds, “of course.” The students all gather with Minerva and see their way out into the courtyards just as Brennia extends a hand from under the cover of her wings. One thing that could be of note beside the tattoos peaking out from her currently conservative attire is the fact the back of her hand seemed recently scarred in some way; as if a scab formed over a busted boil or two. “Merry meet, Lanara. Excuse the sort of dour form the castle has taken on,” she motions to the covered up windows and candlelight before making her way over to one of the winding staircases that hug the curve of the oval shaped main hall. “After our meeting I do hope you will stay for the dinner hour and maybe occupy a room for the night. That is one long trek you just conquered.” An offer she makes to all of her visitors as she is now walking the balcony which overlooks the main hall area and automatic pilot kicks in, “this is the main hall were all of the attendees of the college congregate and socialize.” A motion of the hand over the banister to the large french doors which exit the west side of the hall, “through those doors is a courtyard where artists paint and battle bards train. If you stay when the sun goes down I’ll be delighted to show you,” after passing a few doors on the second story of the main hall they reach one in about the middle of the walkway and Brennia opens the door, walks through, then holds the door open for Lanara. Within this classroom it looks more like a small lecture hall where the seating goes up by levels while one large desk sits before a wall at the landing with a wall of books, but a pull string is easily visible in the dim light which would reveal a black chalkboard over the entirety of the wall. Of course this room is only lit by firefly sconces and candlelight while the windows are painted over to block the sunlight.
Lanara gives the offered hand a firm shake, meets the blue-eyed avian’s gaze, and responds with a soft greeting of her own. The scarring on the offered hand was witnessed, though the young elf was too polite to inquire about it, just yet. “Merry Meet… I didn’t expect to meet others in the lands that hold similar religious beliefs?” Those that knew Lanara, or her younger sibling Talyara, knew that the sisters were witches, and that they were devout followers of the path of the Goddess. Though the ex-witch has been stripped of her magic, she obviously still follows the path, as her life was spared for her constant sacrifices, but that’s a story for another time. Lana then hopes that she didn’t overstep her invitation with talk of religion, and wonders if the students were merely just being friendly with such a greeting. Knowing this could go either way she slips her backpack off of her slender shoulders and clutches it against her chest, as though she were suddenly shy and in need of some material comfort. Thankfully, Brennia seems cordial and beyond welcoming as she offers the elf room and board for the evening, which is graciously responded to with an eager nod. “That is very kind of you, and I accept. In the past I had my broom for transportation, but now… Well, I’m on foot. And it took me quite some time to get here.” As she follows alongside of the woman, she turns to peer at each designated area and ‘mhm’s’ as she records everything in her mind. The college was much grander than she ever could have imagined, and as she enters the dimly lit classroom, she quirks an inquisitive brow. “I actually thought you were going for a ‘calming’ sort of feel. The place is beautifully decorated! But… I do sense something is a tad off. I felt it when I first gripped the door handle to enter the college… It was as if I was compelled to enter, but also a ‘warning’ was going off and asking me to turn back. I’m not sure if it was just my nerves or if something is truly amiss. My magical radar has been a tad off, lately.” At this, her words trail off and she looks at anything other than the ebony-haired female standing before her. Saying her radar was off was an understatement, as she had zero magical abilities since being revived. Not many knew that Lana was stripped of her magic, and it wasn’t something she liked to broadcast, as she was having a hard time coming to grips with it. So, instead of opening up a little more about herself, she admires the firefly sconces and takes in the entirety of the room.
Brennia gives a subtle shrug responding to Lanara’s stance on religion, “quite the coincidence. It was just a common greeting from my home land, but every student here is diverse in their own beliefs and are protected under the most important rule of the college and the guild; No judgements, just acceptance.” Such a simple and easy to comprehend stance and her warm smile remains while she takes a casual lean on the top of her own desk at the head of the room. “I'm glad it still is inviting in our gloom. Schezerade is currently under lockdown during the day as it seems most of the residents have come down with a severe allergy to the sun. I found out the hard way.” Explains the new scars. “When some of the attendees came back from holiday they were unaffected and have not contracted it so it isn't contagious.”(in case you were wondering) She lets the quiet of the empty classroom rest between them for a moment, “lady Lanara,” the way her subtle accent comes out when she pronounces names twists the syllables up in such a way that incites a desire to hear the Bard say it again and again. “How may I assist you? What can the college do for Lanara of Kelay?” The way she asks is not dipped in impatience, but inviting the elf to open up and talk more if she wishes it; it's as if they have the whole evening to just sit and talk and get to know one another. Brennia used to be very good at making quick friends in the most persuasive manner, but it was a learned skill from the way she had to survive her childhood.
Lanara seems slightly surprised at how accepting the college is, and she is about to respond to her relationship with the Goddess, when her eyes widen at the mention of the allergy to the sun. Once more she eyes the scars on Brennia’s hand, though she tries not to make it too obvious that she’s surveying the damage. “Ouch. I have never heard of such an allergy. I… I really shouldn’t speak of such things the first time we are meeting, but…There are certain curses that could cause something like that… I’m not really the one to talk to about reversing it, or even checking if indeed it is a curse. Perhaps you should speak with a Paladin? Or a Priestess of some sort? It could very well be an allergy of some sort… But the only beings that I know of that had such an aversion to the sun were the vampires of the old days. The first to roam the lands. But… I digress. That’s not why I’m here, though if I can be of any assistance, please don’t hesitate to ask.” The elf lowers herself into a chair, and clasps her dainty hands together atop the desk. “I am not here to enroll. I am here to apply for a teaching position. Now, I’m unsure just how much you may have heard of me. And I’m sure that some of what you may have heard may be a bit hard to digest…” A pause here, as she swallows hard, choosing her words carefully. Witch. Died. Reborn. “I am a dancer. Okay, maybe not a dancer in the sense that you would require, exactly… I am an exotic dancer. It started a few years ago. I had moved to the lands to reunite with my little sister, Tally. I was broke. I had zero friends, my homeland was destroyed by the drow, war was rampant in the lands, and I was in dire need of a job. Witches can’t make much of an income with helping and healing, despite what you may think. Unless one dabbles in dark magic, they aren’t exactly worth hiring. And I was –not- the type to turn my back on the Goddess. So… I taught myself to use my looks as a way to charm others. I am an exotic dancer. A stripper, some may say, though I have never bared my privates, at least not when dancing.” A slight smirk appears on her face, as her cheeks redden. “I worked for this company in Cenril for a while, under the alias of ‘Cinnamon’ and we mostly danced at bachelor parties and things like that. So… Um… I started to fine tune my skills, and I can actually do quite a few different styles of dance, though I’ve noticed I’m better at those that showcase sensuality. I can dance solo, in a group, or with a partner. And, though I know I’m not a ‘bard’ in the sense that I can sing, or play a musical instrument…I think that dancing is a way to describe oneself, and I do love admiring art and hearing poetry. So, that is what brings me all this way. I was hoping to join your Guild, or your College. And I would love to work for you, Lady Brennia. I’m hoping to find a less demeaning form of earning income, one where I don’t reek of beer that was spilled on my bosom, and where I only hear catcalls from men that wish to grope me. Do… Do you think I would fit in here?” At this, Lana tucks an errant strand of hair behind her tapered ear and meets the avian’s gaze. It was obvious the elf was being sincere, and she wasn’t the type to sleep around, she was merely trying to earn some gold, and to make an actual living, while providing others with a chance to learn a craft.
Brennia’s expression never changes during the journey of Lanara’s tale, not because she's heard it all before, but because she's been in similar shoes even though money has never been an issue, “the guild seeks to place the traveling Bards with room and board at taverns and Inns. We work to put on plays, comedy shows and one day I hope to have a sort of battle of the Bards,” (like battle of the bands) “my main purpose there is suiting my members with a living and as long as I have anything to say about it Bards don't have to worry of coin in my care. There is a private wing her for guild members or professors while students occupy the dorms…” striking blue eyes rest on locking to Lanara’s own gaze. “‘What does living arrangements have to do with you?’ You may ask. My point is simple and this, as long as you uphold the acceptance rule of my college you need to worry not where your next hot meal comes from, where your wine will be bought, or where you will rest your head… But I hope you never feel ashamed or outcast for the jobs you've accepted in the past because it is a background to be proud of and sung.” Yes, Brennia believes there is merit to Lanara's story even if she doesn't see it herself. “Now. For us to see this talent,” Brennia slips from leaning on her desk and her wings erect finally to reveal her curvy figure which seems poured in a long sleeved white silk blouse that is tucked into a form fitting high waisted black pencil skirt. Clicking of four inch black red bottom pumps bring her around to a drawer of her desk and she tucks some of that silky hair behind elongated pointed ear before bending a little at the waist. “Ah-ha,” straightening after procuring a crystal ball the size of her fist and she walks over to Lanara, probably towering her with her six foot two plus height, before caressing over the top of the ball so Lanara can see the wonder. At such proximity Lanara would be able to pick up her most favorite scent emitting from the Avian. Within the ball could be seen Brennia and an array of students while Brennia almost seems younger in personality (blushing slightly, beaming a smile brightly, signs of love etc), but the college is only a year young so it couldn't have been that long ago. The song starts and emits loud enough for the two of them to enjoy while Brennia motions to the empty space between her desk and the first row of desks before taking a seat in one in order to spectate.
Lanara listens intently to the mistress of the bard school, her head tilted to the side as she takes in each syllable of every last word. A pause would be given as Brennia moves from behind the desk and approaches, with a crystal ball in hand. Lana, being a witch herself, is quite familiar with crystal balls, and so she has no hesitation as she takes a glimpse into the past. The unmistakable scent of lavender with a hint of vanilla fills her senses, and she smiles faintly as her eyes take in a younger version of Brennia, and a nod is given. It was time to audition! The two women part ways as the avian takes a seat in the audience section and the elf proceeds to the makeshift dance floor in the center of the room. “I… I am not doing this for merely a place to rest my head. I… I want there to be a greater purpose to my gift, rather than just doing it for mere survival, is all I meant. Though the perks your academy offers are quite grand!” Finally, Lana stops talking; knowing that she probably gave Brennia quite an earful already. The woman was known for going off on tangents when passionate about something, and rather than keep babbling, she knew it was time to show her talents. Rapidly she sheds her coat, shoes, and leggings, and she stands on the floor in nothing more than her undergarments, and a midriff top. Lana was easy on the eyes, and she had a lovely physique to mirror her flawless face, so all the spectators would have to do is picture the elf in a costume to complete the rather bare ensemble. Had she known that she was going to be auditioning right on the spot, she would have changed into something more suitable, but the clock was ticking, and she had a show to perform. All at once the music begins and Lana dips her head, her chin pushed into her chest, as her arms are raised and her fingertips point to the ceiling. Slender hips sway to the beat and her left leg kicks out as the counting in the music begins, only to be brought up to rest momentarily alongside her cheekbone, as she does an elaborate twirl, and ends in a split. She was flexible, and trying to keep in beat with the tempo of the saxophone, and she was nailing it, as far as auditions would go. The song continues as a backwards flip is done, long locks are tossed from one shoulder to the other, as she remains in a knelt position, and those bedroom eyes take in her audience of one. Leaping into the air, Lana lands on the balls of her feet, and bends her left knee in the air, while her right foot remains firmly on the floor, for balance. Pulling her long locks into her hands, she switches her hips from side to side, before she begins to ever so tantalizingly lower her left hand, while the right holds her hair in a messy bun. Fingertips trail from her neck, across her collarbone, over her cleavage line, and down to her navel, as her back arches in and out and she belly-dances. Eventually all of her hair escapes her makeshift pony-tail and both hands are lowered as she snaps her fingers in rhythm to the music, her bare feet tapping against the floorboards. The snaps turn into loud claps as the elf delves into some fancy footwork, booty shakes, and spins, mirroring what in later years will be referred to as ‘hip-hop’ dancing. Sliding and shimmying across the dance floor as the music nears the end of the song, she slows her steps, and stands on her tippy-toes and goes from a tendu, directly into a pirouette, only to drop into a center split, and throw her head back as the final note is heard. Lana holds her position for a few moments after the song ends, catching her breath, and hoping that the styles of dance she exhibited would suffice for an audition. The song wasn’t one she was familiar with, she wasn’t even certain which style Brennia wanted her to perform, and she wasn’t wearing an actual costume. Though, all in all, for a thrown together, last minute, audition, the elf was feeling as though she had done quite well. Rising to her feet, she slips into her leggings and boots, and meets Brennia’s blue-eyed gaze. “I can do a few more styles of dance, and I have other moves, depending on my audience… I was hoping to showcase how flexible I am and how I can keep in tune to the music, and to show off a few of my signature moves.” At this, the brunette falls silent, merely awaiting a response.
Brennia listens intently either way because she actually talks so much throughout her lessons and it's nice to just listen… She could listen to this beauty talk all day. The Dean could not keep her eyes off Lanara and her physique while attraction and envy mix together in her mind, but her expression remained cool. As Lanara was slipping back into her clothes the avian stood from the student desk and she sort of circled around the elf, taking slow sauntering steps, as if this woman was a fine piece of art she was attempting to appraise. For a long moment it will be hard for Lanara to read the Dean’s thoughts from just her even expression and Brennia makes her way back to her desk where there is a jug of water. Pouring some out into a crystal drinking glass, still silent, and walking it back to Lanara in order to hand it to the elf, but their touch possibly lingers under the touch of gloved hands. Once the avian starts to make her way to the desk she begins, “Madame Lanara…” gently clearing her throat while now pouring herself a glass of water and taking a long sip. Continuing, “I have been moved by song, by production of plays, operas, poetry and even books,” the anticipation is killing me Brennia, get on with it! Brennia takes another sip of water before those eyes seek to meet the other’s gaze, “but never have I ever in my near hundred and forty years,” she sets the glass down, “think that I could be moved by dance.” Plump lips finally spread into a brilliant smile which poke dimples in her cheeks and tears rim the Dean’s eyes threatening to spill over, “but Lady Lanara you have done that here today.” Hands clasp together before being placed over her heart as if she were afraid it may leap from her chest at any moment, “the way your body was so intune with the song and, uh! The picture you painted in my mind - I cannot even describe!” Brennia’s heels click closer to Lanara until she's able to take the woman's free hand and boldly place it over her own chest so she could feel Brennia's heart STILL racing, “I am failing to find the words, Lanara, and I know we just met, but that's hard for me to come by.” She was still smiling and gently pulled herself away from the newest member of the guild and college, “when can you start?” She was walking towards the exit of the classroom, “come let's get you introduced to counselor Mary-Anne so we can get you situated as soon as possible.” She opens the door and holds it open, still absolutely beaming.
Lanara finds herself growing worried as Brennia goes from pacing and needing water, to her eyes brimming with tears and taking hold of her hand. The elf displays fickle emotions as well, from excitement, to fear, to impatience, and finally, to disbelief. The glass of water is downed as she hears the words she has been waiting to hear since she first arrived at the college. She was accepted! A squeal emits from her lips, as a wide smile splays across her face, and she gives Brennia’s hand a gentle squeeze, in turn. “I am?! Thank you so much! This is the most wonderful day of my life! I… I have never received such a heartfelt compliment from anyone. And I must admit, I don’t think I’ve ever danced for a woman before… So it’s all quite new to me. I… I don’t know what to say!” Now, giddy with excitement, the brunette tucks a lock of hair behind her tapered ear, and follows the winged woman to the door. “I can start tomorrow, if that’s acceptable. All I need is a good night’s sleep and I’ll be fine by morning.” As she stands at Brennia’s side, she peers up at the woman and almost shyly lowers her voice, though her words are sincere, and her eyes evoking truth. “Thank you, Dean Brennia. I hope to bring much happiness to the school, and to the lands, through my art of dancing. I hope to repay you in turn, for accepting me, and giving my life further purpose. Perhaps… This weekend I can make you dinner? I know it’s not much… But the smells coming from that cafeteria are delicious. I’m sure I can use some ingredients and make you something worthy of consumption!” A grin would pass between the two, before they exited the classroom and made their way to meet Counselor Mary-Anne. Good things were coming their way, and perhaps a budding friendship was in the cards, too.
Brennia walks with Lanara out of the classroom to escort her to the offices, “women are more appreciative to the art and much harder in the hunt of things.” This gives subtle hint that Brennia has hunted both in the pursuit of bedroom activities. She chuckles softly and shortly at Lanara's offer to repay her, “no need to repay me. We are in this together now, building and shaping minds… But that does sound lovely and I think I would enjoy that.” Walking further down the walkway above the busting students below within the main hall, “that reminds me; every Friday night the professors and I have a poker night, liquor and cigars. It isn't a requirement to show up, but I it's great fun and I would like you to come to it tomorrow night as I am sure everyone will just adore you.” She walks into the staff office and holds the door open to a waiting room for students. The hobbit woman sits behind a low desk and beams a smile up to the pair, “another new student I assume Dean Smyth?!” The hobbit woman giving off a very warm motherly like presence and Brennia smiles back, “if she chooses, but meet our new instructor on Dance, Lanara. Lanara this is Mary-Anne who helps students sign up for classes and keeps this castle organized.” The hobbit looks surprised, but excited at the same time, “maybe I'll be attending some classes, Professor Lanara?” She pulls out stacks of paperwork and hops down her chair, “come with me, dear. We will set up your classroom and then pick out your room in the restricted section in enough time for dinner.” Mary-Anne starts out of the door just as Brennia says her goodbye to Lanara, “I will see you later, Professor Lanara.”