Athena
» located right outside of Ardunon, Findara
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Joyce
The spring breeze gently danced through the open field. Zephyrs gracefully dived in and out of the verdant meadow, providing for a peaceful imagery as the grass swayed delicately within the wind. The occasional strong push of the current caused the array of pastel painted pennants to flutter briefly, though the massive canvas tent that the pennants were strewn across remained motionless; a testament to the servants who meticulously constructed the tented pavilion. Within the vast tent, a muffled orchestra of diverse melodies played on among hearty laughter and merry conversation. From a distance, the citizens of Findara's capital speculated that a Noble had decided to host an eccentric party outside of the city gates or perhaps, the circus was in town; though the latter seemed less likely given the degree of extravagance that the decorations displayed. As a woman of mystery, Giséle Faine delighted in the enigmatic impression she was capable of leaving upon others; her ability to cultivate a secret that others couldn't help but gravitate towards. Which is why she decided to host an event of such ambiguity, so that only the great bards and music connoisseurs of Lucidien could partake within the mystery while the public remained curiously clueless. *A Bard Banquet.* As soon as the idea struck her, she realized that she should have held the event ages ago. Yet, it was never too late for the first of many Bard Barquets to commence and therefore, Giséle allowed the idea to blossom into reality. 
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The event was already in full swing with assortments of all kinds of bards, musicians, and art lovers parading within the tent. A sense of festivity was high among the crowd and that alone filled Giséle with pride. Thus far, it was evident that the Bard Banquet was a success; a success that Giséle fully intended to craft into an annual celebration, known across the lands as a pinnacle of bard honor. Regardless of the future, Giséle maintained her focus in the present as her feline gaze flickered throughout the space. She had enjoyed a majority of the event in the presence of dear friends and now, she needed to shift her horizons to expand her network. *It was time for a new face and a fresh conversation...* Giséle snaked through the merrymakers, the train of her gown dragging behind her, in search of a new companion to keep her company when her eyes settled upon a familiar frame. Aurélien Faine, her beloved brother, appeared to be immersed in a discussion with a woman. Perhaps this was the new companion that Giséle required? After all, she couldn't deny Aurélien her time when she hadn't spared a second for him yet. 
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"Pardon the interruption," Giséle offered a small curtsey, "It is common for my brother to capture someone of unique interest in conversation. So, I was inclined to join and answer my curiosities. What is your name, dear?" Her eyes fell over the frame of the woman, awaiting for a response. All around them, the party proceeded in full swing. Bards full with their fill of sweet ale twirled and skipped in circles at the center of the room, partaking in the glorious music that a band of dwarves and kobolds relentlessly played. Throughout the chaos, servants rushed in and out of the tent to supply the event with drink and food; carefully balancing trays of delicate pastries and savory meats, rolling in barrels of honeyed alcohol, and occasionally toting in a bundle of towels for the inevitable mess. However, Giséle had grown accustomed to these sorts of parties and the conglomeration of activities that all took place at once. Even with her far more sensitive feline senses, Giséle's ears hadn't twitched once at the level of noise and, in fact, her tail swung idly in peace.
Keli
*The event was impeccably orchestrated, seemingly every detail was reviewed and revised to land it as close to perfection as possible. So much effort was put into something such as this, it was exquisite. As the Madam of the Lion's Den, Kallista had taken to a detail-oriented gaze into the production of events such as these. Nevertheless, she found its extravagance of a different scale than that of the events in Khisfire, let alone her place of work. She had never ventured so far as Findara before but was all the more appreciative of its differences. The air in Khisfire always felt dry, devoid of any humidity. Here, though, it was quite a pleasant spring. The breeze flew through her silk dress, rippling through its embroidered hem, causing it to flutter at the parallel slits that drew up her legs. The rich, dark mauve of the dress wasn't quite on the color palette of the event, but its golden embroidery glimmered in the daylight and brought the succubus back to her home. Only so much could be foreign, after all.*

*Parusing the crowd, she had meandered her way into conversation with a certain Aurélien Faine. The man was courteous, yet curious of her work. In all truth, she was shocked to have received an invitation. It was most uncommon for those of prestige to look upon someone with a career history such as hers. However, she'd met only the kindest of people, albeit very few knew much of her. Her fame in Khisfire was centered around one kind of business- which she had been feverishly attempting to change. Now that she had integrated more artistry and intrigue into her performances, it seemed she had broken the mold. Apparently, the rich enjoyed some diversity in their entertainment after all. Of course, she had limited chances to truly perform with fire, but ideally, this would pave the way for more. Mr. Faine was most welcoming, which calmed her ever-buried nerves- along with a drink, of course.*
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*Kallista was mid-sip of a glass of champagne as she noticed the Vesani woman approaching. There was no mistaking Giséle Faine, not in this business. Her eyes flicked between the siblings momentarily as she approached, their resemblance was all but minimal. It was easy to place the two as related, even if he hadn't introduced himself. The chiffon draped loosely over her upper body moved with her as she turned to include the woman in their conversation. It too, was embroidered with golden trim, cut with a whimsical flare that exaggerated any arm movement. The style was a favorite of Kallista, having had the dress custom-made for the occasion. It fit quite perfectly, fitted at the waist as a cacophony of gold details made their way up her torso to an aquamarine stone fitted just under her bust. She even had the jewelry custom-ordered to match, her chest dappled with more stones and gold, wrists and ankles adorned with bangles, even adding a headpiece to compliment the cerulean of her hair and gold of her horns. If there was anything the dark-eyed woman enjoyed more than performing, it was the extravagance of the life they had all chosen.*

*As the hostess arrived, Kallista reciprocated her curtsey with an added dip of the head. It was not every day that Giséle Faine asked for someone's name. She answered in a smooth tone, her accent gentle, yet ever-present despite her attempts to erase it.* "It is all the pleasure in the world to make your acquaintance. I am Kallista Re'esseh. Your brother has been most kind, we were just discussing the sheer beauty of this lovely event you have so generously put together". *Her dark eyes met Giséle's, surveying her in turn. She took a moment to drink in the experience, the ambiance, the guests, it was just as divine as she had imagined. A smile rested upon her painted lips, despite her own decades of experience, she still found herself in awe of every event she partook in. Still, she disguised it well, it was her job after all.*
Taylor
*Iona was more than late in their arrival to this banquet. She still didn't quite know why she even came to such an event. She felt more than out of place with the style of the clothes she was wearing compared to others. Iona had by chance been invited by someone hearing her playing in the square, at first it had sounded maybe like something she might enjoy. It had been some time since joining in any type of festival and her mother had encouraged her to come saying she needed to try and not be so guarded with others just because of their past. Though it was hard not to be when they were the lost queen and princess of Dasvaz, a home Iona didn't even remember. 

Iona would stay close to the wall of the tent, watching the interact of others as she took note of her own dress. It was very simple, pale blue in color with frayed edges from years of worked. Though the shoulders of it would have a bit of embroidery that went across the square bonince of the dress, a leather waist corset that looked more like a belt in the fashion of it. She'd have a leather upper arm cuff on her left arm and than a stone pendant that hung on a leather strap. It felt like she's come straight from working than having planned to come to a banquet. She felt the same with her violin as it wasn't as fancy as others instruments looked. Hers was made of bone and wood. Barbaric looking is how most seemed to think she looked especially when it came to her Goliath size. 

Iona really didn't know how to join in. She was only 18 yet it seemed like she didn't really know how to have fun. She just would be listening to the music as one hand would be playing along with the tune at her side. The music was at least helping calm her nerves with being in such a busy place.*
Anne
Aurelien *Loved* The attention, he loved all of the eyes on him, practically feasting off of it. He was like an easily excitable cat, his gaze flitting from each and every guest, until his caught the eye of one gorgeous bard. The Madam of the Lions Den, a woman who was likely as gorgeous as Aurelien was. And for that, she had piqued his interest. Eyes cascading along her form, as he kept his brown eyes looking across the magnificent tent. 

Gisele always had the perfect eye. She was just, amazing. There was a clear reason why Aurelien looked up to his older sister so much, she was everything he wanted. She was a famous bard, she was perfect, beautiful, and amazing. Ever since his youth, he had always looked up to her, and he still did now. He wanted to be just like his older sister, and he even found himself imitating various quirks of hers. 

As he moved closer to the curious woman, Aurelien kept his steps light, and airy. He held his clothing close to himself, his cloak trailing behind him, the gorgeous reds and whites. As if engrosed in thought, Aurelien finally met the woman he had been looking for, engaging her in various conversation. Complimenting her on her business, the sheer beauty of her attire, and her beauty. 

As he had gotten the woman and himself a drink, they began to talk about the gorgeous event, and just how well Gisele had been able to put it together. It was a feat of legendary proportions, and he was very happy to enjoy it. He lightly jumped, hearing the announcement of his sisters arrival, and as Kallista turned to face her, so did Aurelien. 

"My dear sister. What a *Pleasure* To see you," His voice was happy, and excited to see his sister. He took a sip of his champagne, awaiting for his sister's response.
Kevin
Whether he was fashionably late or on time, a new face neared the entrance of the massive tent. Inhaling a deep breath, the young incubi exhaled quietly through his nostrils before looking over himself with a quick glance. Ensuring everything on his person was in place, Ozmodeus 'Starsinger' Shyama strode forward with confidence, and entered the tent. His appearance was striking, and would stand out in any crowd- at least in a crowd that didn't consist of equally flashy and talented bards. At the very least his pink hair seemed to somewhat unique amongst the guest list, and his attire left little to the imagination.

Wearing his usual attire, pink was always the theme with the Starsinger. Being an idol amongst other idols meant the attention wouldn't be entirely on himself- a boon in disguise. He may have had an unmatched stage presence, but he'd be lying if he didn't admit he was the smallest bit nervous. Ozmodeus gazed around at the other faces, noticing and recognizing most. After all, they were fellow members of the Brotherhood- if Ozmodeus *Didn't* Know them, could he truly call himself an idol? 
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A black cloth shirt hugged his form- unbuttoned down to his lower stomach, revealing his chest and some of his abdomen. Beneath it, a black leather strap hugging tightly across his breast, only accentuating the body beneath it. White, stainless pants covered his lower half, as well as a black belt with a golden buckle. All things considered, this was the simplest part of his outfit. Lastly, a black color with a golden ring and short chain rest around his neck- one could only wonder what nefarious things the Starsinger got up to with that chain dangling from his neck. All in all, regardless of his status as a bard, one could argue he looked like what someone who'd never seen a concubus would assume they looked like- as immodest as they come.

Ozmodeus wouldn't be a bard without his trusted lyre, 'Ovlesa'. Any vesani, concubi or even tiefling would know the name meant 'Star Song' in infernal. It was beautifully crafted and clearly enchanted. For now, it rest on his back neatly. Looking around, Ozmodeus was curious who he'd talk with first. Gisele immediately caught his attention, alongside someone he believe to be was her brother- both standing near a beautiful woman Oz did not recognize. Turning, the incubus noticed a long girl standing close to the walls of the tent. She had yet to catch a conversation it seemed- so Ozmodeus began heading her way. Scanning his playful and devilish orange eyes over her, the bard stopped a few feet away from her.
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"Morning-" Ozmodeus spoke, his voice calm and welcoming. "-I don't believe I know you. Are you new to the Brotherhood or a lone troubadour?" The idol studied her violin for a moment and noticed the lack of flair- but Ozmodeus wasn't judging her in the slightest. Perhaps this bard preferred a more simple look? Anyone looking over at the two it would practically seem like night and day. Ozmodeus's pointed tail swung idly behind him, so low to the ground it was inches from grazing it. "I'm Ozmodeus Shyama- but you may know me better as Starsinger." The incubi bowed low, as he would for any lady regardless of her status or standing.

He was a gentleman's gentleman.
Joyce
While Giséle is a seasoned citizen of Lucidien, she certainly didn't recognize every face and remember every name. She might know the ins and outs of some Kingdoms although there were other Kingdoms where she had little influence which affected her access to information. Therefore, when Giséle's gentle gaze settled on the Succubus, her mind surfaced a blank on the other woman's identity. Yet, this was the true function of the Bard Banquet so there was no shame to be held about a lack of knowledge about her guests; events like this were meant as a means to expand her network in business and perhaps, even provide a rare opportunity for friendship. Regardless, Giséle had assigned her servants to scout the lands for bards and artists alike to invite, so there was an obvious potential that there would be more than a handful of guests that she didn't know at all. 

*Kallista Re'esseh.* Giséle would do well to cement the name to her memory; after all, there was nothing more embarrassing than forgetting someone's name shortly after they introduced themselves. Judging on how the woman responded, she appeared to be an individual who was experienced in social settings. No hesitation laced her words nor did any apprehension flicker across her features. With such confidence, Giséle was intrigued to dive into further discussion with the woman. Though before she could respond, Aurélien spoke up and greeted her. Despite her typical well composed stature, Giséle couldn't help but allow her rosy lips to curve into a warm smile and her tail to stick straight up in joy. The Vesani Idol had a special spot for her brother and his presence was something that could easily sway her mind away from the formalities of events; though never enough where she'd allow herself to become undignified. Therefore, as quickly as her body language shifted in the proximity of Aurélien, it quickly changed back to grace. 
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"Aurélien, it's always a pleasure," Giséle nodded at her brother and then returned her attention to Kallista with a soft smile, "Kallista, it's lovely to meet you. Thank you for your kind words. But, the beauty of my event is only pronounced with the presence of guests like you so, thank *You* For attending and making this Bard Banquet truly come to life. However, let's not get bogged down in too many formalities. This event is a celebration of artistry after all, so you must tell me of yours dear~ Perhaps a dancer? You certainly have a physique for it." As an artist herself, Giséle could usually recognize the differences between types of performers; musicians, dancers, singers, and more. She dabbled in multiple arts of performance so perhaps, she had a certain angle that allowed her to pinpoint what talents an individual possessed.
Keli
*The drinks at this event, despite how lovely they were, felt weak to Kallista. Perhaps it was her tolerance, she was spoiled back home. Leovyr kept his establishment well-kept with alcohol from around the world, and the light champagne of the occasion felt like nothing but bubbly sweetness in comparison to her taste for the richness of a dark red wine. Though it was nothing to complain about, she wondered how many of these delicate glasses it would take to get her to feel the effects of the alcohol within. The succubus assumed it was to keep everyone in order, at least for this introductory stage of the event.*

*Dark eyes watched as Giséle greeted her brother. The woman, no matter how skilled she was at keeping her composure, seemed as if she would always have a soft spot for her brother. It was sweet, matching the two's graceful presentation. Elegance, sweetness, gentleness, the entire place seemed coaxed in it with Giséle around. Quite the change from home, but not an unwelcome one. Kallista felt her lips fall into a similar smile alongside the words that followed the siblings' quick exchange. Her demeanor, though calculated, was more gentle than usual. Her horns glimmered in the sunlight as she dipped her head to Giséle's observation. It was to be expected, that the idol hostess wasn't completely aware of all of her guests, especially with an event this size. Kallista felt it was a good opportunity to place herself in good graces for the sake of her own career, if not just to sell her place of work as one that would love to house the secrets of the famous.*

"You have quite the eye. Yes, I am a dancer, hailing from the Lion's Den in Sol's Landing. Do you know of it?" *The smile lacing her lips grew at the mention of her work. It wasn't every day one could discuss their passions with others who felt similarly. She swirled what was left of the drink in her glass as she spoke, her smooth intonation matching that of her surroundings.* "I dance in many different styles, some more classic, others well...", *She placed her free hand over her chest to emphasize,* "I would at least describe as innovative."

*'Dance' was such a wide way of describing so many variants of artistry, that it felt like a rather minimizing word. Nevertheless, Kallista was keen to share. She wondered after the musicians, having come into direct contact with those who mainly performed in brothels. To her, they were often not the stars of shows, but the absolute foundation from which they were built. At home, she made sure that they were well-kept. Vocalists, however, were another story. They were few and far between in her line of work at home, but in the vastness of the world, idols such as Giséle were known everywhere. That kind of fame, what did it taste like? Perhaps that was why the Vesani woman was so saccharine, with the syrupy liquid gold of fame coursing through her veins.* "It is most lovely to see a collection of like-minded individuals in the same place. I often wonder what the world outside my personal stage is like, and it is just gorgeous to see it come to life. You must tell me what your own work is like being the renowned idol you are".
Taylor
*Iona had been just looking around the room as she still felt out of place. Everyone was off talking and visiting while she had no idea what to do. Sure she could maybe try talking to someone but who or was she going to make someone annoyed with her if she jumped into a conversation? She also had no idea what to even talk about if she did, she only was in a town or village but for a few months before she was once again reclusive in the forest for the rest of the year. 

Though she took note of everyone coming in, there was a lot of bards that seemed to come in. She'd see a few of them on posters and seen a few when going by in the streets. She did notice though that one of them seemed to be coming over.

She didn't know who they were though. He was a either a incubi or a teifling she guessed? She didn't know for sure and asking would make her probably get embarrassed by that simple question. Was he a singer or dancer? She couldn't see if they had an instrument or not but either way she was sure they were good at it with just the way they dressed. Though all of them dressed fancy while she looked like a simple worker that happened to come into here by mistake. It was intimidating just by so many were fancy and famous. 

Once the stranger got close she would give a small smile, wanting to be polite even if she didn't know them.* "Morning-" *She would reply, her voice seemed rough as if not used very often.* "I'm sure you haven't met me before. I'm not either of those, I just happened to be invited last moment because someone heard me here." *Iona would move her violin to hold a bit closer since someone was now close and she felt protective of it. She didn't comment on their tail but it was something she noticed, she wondered about it sure since she didn't interact with his type much but best to keep her questions to herself.*

"It's a pleasure to meet you, sir. Though I'm afraid I have never heard of you, I'm sure you are quite popular though as most here seem to be? Though I could also be wrong as I'm not accustomed to other bards and what everyone is good at." *Iona would though give a bow back as she wanted to be respectful to whoever she was talking to since she was probably younger than most here. And though she might be a princess she was one no one knew about so she was still a no-one to everyone.*