#Savid Velikov

[rahadaddy]

Weird Semi-Spoilers I Send My Players

[emalynde]

D&D Soap Opera Synopsis 11 & 12--the last episodes

Wax dribbled downwards methodically, collecting in a small, copper basin, the substance viscous with a muted sheen to it.  Chelyse sat at the small breakfast table she shared with Kasimir, writing into the evening by the flickering light of an almost-depleted candle.  Given the elegance of her appearance, it would seem the fey knight had attended some event of significance that day.

Forgive the delay, but there was much to be done the past few days.  I had not the time to spare for my journal.  I have only just returned home from Temerity and Adryssa’s… I dare not call it a binding in the elven way.  I believe the tiefling called it a wedding--a union in the human manner.  It was not unlike the ceremonies accompanying a binding, in essence, though much less involvement of the community and only for a single day’s duration.  There was not the connection with the Seldarine, with magic, and with the fauna and flora that is implicit in elven matrimonials.   Mother and father actually made the journey from Evermeet to attend, although they did not much enjoy their stay, I’m afraid.  Their disappointment and disdain for Adryssa’s behavior was painted clearly upon their features.  Al’orllin was the only member of my kin receptive to the event.  Calineath and Telyssan did not seem visibly offended by the union, but nor were they openly supportive.  Eldithor thinly veiled his disdain, which was the reaction I think we all expected from my eldest brother.  

Despite my attempts at conversation, my parents did seem seem inclined to associate with my person either.  I assume their disregard was borne of my departure of Leuthilspar, of my home and family, and decision not to observe my bindings with Thalandril.  Whether they are aware of my relationship with Kasimir, I know not.  Combined with the mishap involving Castle Ravenloft, I fear the resulting disappointment I have garnered has formed a barrier between my house and I.  The display of as much nearly broke my heart, but I made this choice.  I knowingly incurred these consequences, Corellon preserve me.

Based upon whatever unholy rationale prompted Adryssa to desire a veritable demon as her mate, my sister invited Thalandril--of all individuals--to her frivolities.  His discomfort was apparent, as was my own when we managed to stumble upon one another during the reception. My life-mate merely looked at me, at the sheepish smile I offered at this unspeakably awkward reunion, before he simply turned and walked away.  My heart sank, wishing that I could at least patch over the hurt that I had caused.  Thalandril had brought his consort, Emalynde, to whose side he fled.  Perhaps to fly in the face of our crumbled arrangement.  I could not blame him. Despite what Kasimir had divulged concerning the priestess of Hanali, she always was kind to me, although I think there was pity in her gaze.  For what reason, I know not.  At least she was gentle in her dismissal, as I am sure Thalandril did not take kindly to her sharing my company.  There was camaraderie enough the evening prior, during the festivities tailored to celebrate one’s individuality and independence once more before being bound.  A human endeavor, it would seem.  There was much drinking and men, of which I took no part.  But that did not stop the group of women--as the occasion was limited to those of the female gender--from trying me to a chair, having males of various species dance about my person scantily clad.  It was horrific, in short.  

I was so embarrassed by the night’s activities that I could not face the dusk elven wizard the next morning, departing our shared quarters as soon as I could on the premise of aiding in preparation for the wedding.  It was perhaps best that I did not make a show of my affections with Kasimir to be considerate of my family’s wishes, and Thalandril’s dignity.  It was not my wish to impugn either.  Therefore, I saw the scholar little that day, allowing him to frequent the company of Savid and Al’orllin instead.  I, in turn, visited with my younger siblings, in whose regard I was not diminished severely.   Mother and father intend to leave as soon as possible, and it appears that Savid has grown rather fond of Thalandril’s personal assistant.  Jhanys, I believe her name was.  He means to visit Evermeet and vacation with her, which I hope he will enjoy.  The enormous elf always fared better within Leauthilspar than Kasimir, who gave more mind to others’ opinions of him.  Not to mention Savid has created friendships there with individuals who would shield him from any discrimination.  It warms my heart that he has secured those sort of bonds, as his heart is both kind and large.  He deserves this happiness.   I only wish that Kasimir and myself could join the giant of an elf, but the journey on the inter-dimensional conch, confined to those quarters alongside my family and Thalandril, might very well be preferable only to having each and every one of my nails pulled free from each fingertip.  Not to mention that the wizard nurtures no love for my birthplace.  It is simply another concession--and therefore no matter.  Perhaps one day we can return, for a visit at least. *** A swath of ribbon is nestled between the pages of parchment before Chelyse lays the journal aside for the evening.  About a week later, a fresh entry dries cleanly upon the unfurled tome.  The gentle paladin produces a chinking sound as she adjusts her seated position, the magical armour gifted to her by Sergey Von Zarovich protesting metallically.  It had been some time since its last use. There is a relief palpable now that the matter has been settled.  For months we have been dealing with these cultists in one form or another.  But it is finally finished.  Thank Corellon for that.  It was only with the aid of the Entertainers’ Guild that the matter was able to pass successfully through Nexus’ legal system, since of course vigilante justice has to be proven up to be validated as such.  It is an interesting method of law enforcement, but it seems to work well enough--taking on contracts to exact justice only to have to evidence the validity of said actions at a later date. But I digress.  This would not have been possible were it not for an ill-fated tactic.  Adryssa had contacted me telepathically while Kasimir, Savid, and myself were enjoying breakfast, as the barbarian had returned to the guild the morning prior.  She relayed that Temerity had been kidnapped, a note attached to the door of their home, the windows broken and blood staining the floor.  Concerned, I communicated as much to Kasimir, who was of the opinion the diviner was just entertaining another prank or exaggerating the tale, as she was prone to misrepresentations. Nevertheless, we agreed to investigate the ordeal given my sister’s panic.  We arrived to find the state of affairs exactly as the girl had foretold.  I did what I could to comfort her, knowing that she would be upset by the turn of events even if I did not fully understand her attachment to the she-devil.  The roads had been swarming with contingents of cultists on our journey over, almost as if they were making some sort of rounds throughout the city.  A group of them paused before the residence, hesitating for only a moment before starting to scribble symbols upon the pavement outside.   I had arrived rather unprepared, wearing casual, comfortable attire rather than my armour--as we had not thought such preparation necessary initially.  Thankfully, Ricatavio had been contacted previously as to the sudden influx of cultists and was gracious enough to ferry my protective gear to our location.  Surly at being asked to do so, the eladrin nevertheless came through, for which I was grateful.  However, the process of adorning myself in platemail takes some time.  Savid, without hesitation, immediately began to dress me, much to my embarrassment.  Kasimir helped. The others ran outside to interrupt whatever was transpiring while the dusk elves helped fit my armour to my frame.  About halfway through the ordeal, flames began to lick at the walls of the room, forcing me to dash to the building’s exterior, finding alchemist’s flames devouring the siding.  Conjuring water was no large feat, but exposing myself without being fully suited in plate nor armed proved a mistake.  Seeing an opportunity, two cultists converged on my person and I was not able to fend them off.   My consort came to my rescue, providing enough counter-attack to enable my escape back indoors, where I was forced to tend to my wounds and attempt to finish dressing.  By the time I was appropriately adorned, shield and sword in hand, the fighting had ceased.  Bodies were strewn about, perhaps three in number.  The scholar was examining what appeared to be a set of empty robes while the others gathered up their belongings to head to the location designated upon the note left by Temerity’s captors.   We debated for some time as to how best to approach what very much appeared to be a trap.  It was likely that this kidnapping was perpetrated by the cultists whose plans we had dismantled--and whose officers we had taken into custody--on numerous previous occasions.  But it was a sobering notion that the cultists themselves were out in force on our account.  It seems we had upset a very precarious balance.  Ultimately, we decide to masquerade as cultists to enable us to infiltrate the rendezvous point. It was not a difficult task to locate a smaller band of cultists wandering more isolated streets.  We needed a few more to assume the identities of, so I kindly asked for the assistance of several individuals--a venture that worked more ideally than I would have surmised.  It is astounding how malleable humans are to an elven aesthetic.  Adryssa adjusted their visages to reflect our own, thus acting as a shield to our tactic.  If we pretended to bring ourselves in, since these cultists were apparently looking for us, we gained entrance to the location unnoticed and without suspicion.. The plan did not unfold as smoothly as intended.  Confusion marked the entire undertaking.  Dak scouted the building in question, which ended up being the club that we had attended only weeks prior when Emalynde had been visiting.  The ettin seemed to be conducting some sort of seminar, teaching those who usurped the positions of former Entertainers’ Guild officers how to best impersonate their likenesses.  It did not seem as if anyone was even expecting us, which was quite odd.  Nonetheless, we escorted the semblances of ourselves into the establishment. The ettin paused his lesson, growing irate quite quickly with a situation he seemed utterly unfamiliar with.  He knew nothing of Temerity or even of us, really.  He threatened the magicked versions of our party to leave.  Adryssa had imbued each individual with a limited amount of information with which to better pretend to be each member of our number.  The imitation of the witch spoke out of turn, apparently, angering the ettin, who reeled back and struck her.  At that point, I interfered.  This exchange did not need to resort to violence or the eventuality of death. But the ettin was no longer brandishing words and I was forced to defend both myself and the hapless cultists who were made to look like my friends and myself.  I attempted to persuade the brute to stand down, but he would have none of it.  Extending a meaty fist, he snatched me about the middle, swinging me into the air and clamping down like a vice.  Air whooshed from my lungs, expelled at the sudden cinch of pressure.  Kasimir once more saw to my safety, dissolving into shadow only to reappear at my side.  Taking my hand, he summoned an iridescent door, which we both stepped through and away from the beast. Now that aggression was the only language to which the cult leader would respond, the group replied in kind.  Ultimately, the collection of impostor Entertainers’ Guild officers were apprehended as well, held in safekeeping for submission to the Entertainers’ Guild themselves. Upon questioning, not a one of them were familiar with Temerity or the situation at hand.  It was the strangest thing.  We investigated the premises, especially the ettin’s office, finding another of those transportive devices that had linked this location to the Entertainers’ Guild, as had been the case upon our last visit. I had ventured over to tend to the wounds of the cultist who had sustained damage, inquiring into what information they held as well.  They had indeed been tasked with finding us, but for no purpose that they were aware.  Returning to the remainder of the party, it seemed that a cipher had been discovered and de-crypted from within the ettin’s desk--the message referring to some sort of power play implicit within the cult itself.  The idea was not shocking in any way.  We had already encountered one coup within the organization.  But… had we been setup to conduct someone’s dirty work toward that end? Given that Rufus, the individual who had initiated the last overthrow of power within the cult, was on good terms with us--with the disguised versions of us, at least--we decided to travel to the circus to continue our sleuthing.  It was by sheer happenstance that Adryssa thought to cast a location spell, the result indicating that Temerity was in close vicinity.  The spell acted like a beacon, leading us straight to the same holding pens that caged the elves we had rescued several months ago.  And there she was, sitting within one of the confinements.  It was almost too easy.  And strange. In increasingly odd developments, the elven ringmistress emerged from out of sight, flanked by several individuals armed with crossbows.  In our haste, we had overlooked a cursory appraisal of the area--much to our detriment.  Confusion continued to mark the day’s events, as this was the woman whom I had saved from the drow slavers who had sought to do away with her authority.  She spoke plainly, with cloyingly sweet tones steeped in condescension and a coy edge.  The ringmistress thanked us for our unwitting aid, as she’d been attempting to unseat the ettin for some time.  And we had proved capable--as demonstrated previously.  We had just needed some encouragement. I could not fathom the betrayal.  She need only ask--not manipulate in such an underhanded manner.  Although Temerity remained unharmed--physically at any rate--it was the principal of the matter.  The absolute disregard for the well-being of another living creature.  I confronted her with as much, to which she laughed, her bemusement echoing off the empty cages that dotted this tent.  With a dismissive flick of her wrist, she waved farewell, intending to depart through a conjured portal.  I attempted to reach for her, but was too far away, the magical construct winking out of existence before I could close the distance. The entirety of that experience has left a sour taste in my mouth for this city and its denizens.  Is this how one repays another for kindness?  What is the human saying--no good deed goes unpunished?  My frustration mounts and I feel as if the corruption here chokes the very breath from my lungs.  I miss home.  Evermeet does not suffer from such sickness such as this.  Yet I am helpless to return, homeless in the way I am unable to bear the scorn of my family or to force Kasimir to burden himself with the mistreatment of others.  There is not even wildlife here.  It is bricks and stone and dead planks of wood.  There is not the spark of life, no soundless melody of ambient arcane that sings through nature itself. I miss home.

[emalynde]

D&D Soap Opera Synopsis 9/10: Emalynde Edition

((The following is the report “required” of Emalynde, a courtesan/contracted intelligencer, for lead intelligence agent Thalandril Van’drys--her lover and Chelyse’s now rather estranged lifemate.  Emalynde is well aware that the secretary who requested the “official document” simply wants a sordid play-by-play of her adventure and that any guise that the record is necessary is just that--a guise. This entry starts at the fourth day’s account, the prior three chronicling her journey from Evermeet to the Fae Wilds to Nexus City, then several days spent in the company of Savid Velikov.  Jhanys, the receptionist in question, is positively enamored with the giant dusk elf.))

DAY FOUR: It was this day that I met the remainder of the group in question, namely the House Dawnbloom’s youngest children and their sha’quessir, along with a rather pretty human.  We broke our fasts together whilst planning to attend some sort of festivity.  You would not believe the sheer variety of creatures that occupy the region, Jhanys.  For instance, the pretty human threw mashed potatoes at this group of young elves and the plate happened to belong to a fire giant seated nearby, who was none-too-pleased at the use of his breakfast as a projectile.  The beast was the largest sentient being I’ve ever seen! I must admit to having giggled, but apparently it caused somewhat of a fuss.  The enormous creature thought it purchased the human?  I think?  I could not understand the exchange.  Speaking only elvish in this sea of species was rather limiting.  Either way, Chelyse was forced to intervene, which was likely quite necessary at that point.  Slavery is such an awful thing, and a rather enormous miscommunication to have.  The brute actually listened to her, though.  After that, your darling Savid and the youngest Dawnbloom, Adryssa, decided that the three of us needed new attire for the occasion.  Although the lot of them were wildly unprepared to attend such a celebration.  They had not even secured tickets!  And it was for the very same evening!

Wilson, the guild’s doorman of sorts--perhaps butler is a better term?--refused to permit me entry into the evidence room to secure the copy of the invitation we needed.  The idea was to produce enough to gain admission to the gala.  The man was veritably immune to my charms, which is ever so vexing, as you might imagine.  Adryssa was able to secure entrance, as she was a guild member, and we found out that the document in question had been checked out by one Ricatavio.  The girl knew him, so we paid the man a visit.  I shall have to take you on my next trip, Jhanys, as this Ricatavio was no man, but an eladrin.  Positively beautiful.  You would have adored him.  His cheekiness rivals your own.  And he is lovelier than I, if such a thing were possible. Unfortunately, and I am still unsure how, the eladrin knew of my identity as well as my association with Thalandril.  There were a few frightening moments in which I thought myself compromised, but he only wished to be privy to Thalandril’s information on Evermeet.  Can you imagine?  By Hanali.  Of course, I gave him nothing.  Betraying Thalandril would be my last action in this life--either he would have my head should I speak or I would lay down my own life rather than surrender his.  In order to attain the mentioned invitations, we had to reach an agreement as to the trade of information--but it is only at Thalandril’s whim.  Yes, I have already discussed the details with him.  No, you needn’t any paperwork on it; it’s off the books. You shall be happy to know that I sated your curiosity.  Not only did my abilities have no effect on Ricatavio in the least, but he desired my companionship despite my failed charms.  He agreed to make the invitations, but that I should also bed him.  The notion was premised on the fact that Thalandril must keep me around for some purpose, which I only assume was intended to be a slight to my skill of reconnaissance.  Not that I could contest as much at that point, but I had no qualms putting the eladrin in his place within the bedroom.  The only complication was that the poor Dawnbloom child got entangled in some sort of bondage device of Ricatavio’s whilst looking about.  He freed her, after having a laugh, and bade her return in several hours for the mentioned invitations. ((Emalynde gives a detailed account of her rendezvous with Ricatavio, sparing Jhanys, who often lives vicariously through the redheaded enchantress, no detail.  Think middle-aged, sassy secretary who’s into ‘Magic Mike’ and might be dealing with a mid-life crisis.))  I might have actually expanded my repertoire--with the eladrin’s help.  So Savid will have to be only one on your list of pursuits within Nexus, Jhanys.  I do highly recommend him, although be wary of the biting wit and general condescension.  Ricatavio thinks quite highly of himself, but his animal companion, a great beast of a cat, will happily put him back in his place for you if need be.  Mr. Kittums might be the only individual that can curb the eladrin’s narcissism. We decided to have Chelyse and her dusk elf consort secure the invitations when the ranger had finished with them, so that the three of us--Savid, Adryssa, and myself--could find something to wear.  At breakfast, we had discussed the need for Adryssa to find a date to the engagement, as she witnessed Savid request my company for the evening.  We took her flying carriage--although think of it as the metallic union of a wagon and a boat--that’s apparently powered by a fire elemental.  I am unsure why the elementals remained caged thusly, but perhaps I am not privy to the agreements reached.  Or perhaps the world works differently here than in Evermeet. The ride was exhilarating.  Have you ever flown?  We soared about the city and the view was absolutely breathtaking.  Everything is so much more varied in design and architecture here than Evermeet, where the uniformity and elegance of our fair city are key.  We soon arrived at the home of whomever Adryssa wished to take to the evening’s activity--a rather artistic area of town.  I jest you not, Jhanys, the individual in question was a demon!  The spawn of one, at least.  If my education serves, the race is referred to as Tieflings?  House Dawnbloom would be devastated to know that their youngest progeny was consorting with such creatures, much less on a romantic level.  I wonder if Thalandril plans to utilize that knowledge to his ends.  T’would not surprise me.

Although I could understand nothing that was said unless Savid chose to translate, Temerity--as she was called--seemed peaceful enough.  I must admit to being rather wary, but neither your darling Savid, nor Adryssa, seemed to bat an eye at the presence of such a being.  It--or she, I should say--appeared to be an artist, rather morbidly erotic paintings displayed throughout.  The shop itself reminded me of a vampyr’s residence: all blood-colored velvet contrasted with black accents and furnishings.  The same coloring as the tiefling, now that I think about it.  But I digress.  Judging by facial expression and body language, the tiefling assented to attend alongside Adryssa.    We then ventured to the Dawnbloom girl’s shop, as she designs and tailors attire through the use of fabrication magic--or so she explained to me.  The girl had requested that Savid and I showcase her newest line at the dance to spread awareness of her wizarding brand.  We, of course, assented.  Oh!  I do hope you enjoyed the dress I promised you from Lamruil Teth’Sol, on the subject of custom-made garments.  Please let Thalandril know if you’ve any trouble using my name on the order.  But no matter, I must admit that the child is rather talented; I’ll be sure to show you the gown she created next time I stop by the office.  If it does not drop your jaw, and at least Dellanor’s trousers, I will owe you dinner.  Agreed? But I am sure you’re much more concerned with Savid’s attire.  He always wears these fitted, leather pants that I am sure need no further description.  His shirt was partially sheer, resulting in more clothing than the enormous elf normally wears, seeing as his rule of thumb is typically to only don what I dare say is the same, singular pair of trousers.  The giant of an elf was disappointed that our garments did not match, but the Temerity woman wished to wear leather and so I, of course, could not.  After Adryssa created the appropriate accessories to accompany her work, we relocated to the brand’s atelier to ready ourselves for the evening.  You would giggle.  Savid spends more time at the mirror than I do.  I was forced to apply my make-up in a side mirror as he would not share the prominent dressing one. At the designated time, we met the remainder of the group at the location specified upon the invitations, information that Kasimir relayed to the little Dawnbloom girl through the use of their magical talents.  The venue was atop a looming tower, but built of stone and masonry.  It was so drab and lifeless compared to Evermeet’s living structures wrought of crystalline sharding and trees.  Rowhouses dotted the rooftop--and we knew not where to enter until Adryssa alerted the lot of us to an invisible doorman he managed to spy.  It was really rather fascinating, although the entity also was revealed to be a horned devil, so I was wise in remaining close to Savid’s side.  I gave my ticket to the dusk elf to offer up in my stead and the parchment sizzled to a crisp as it was proffered toward the empty space where it supposedly stood. I was confused as we filed through, one by one, into the foyer.  It was entirely empty--no patrons, no drinking, no music.  Nothing at all.  I think it was Savid who noticed it, but there seemed to be some sort of film over the far end of the hallway.  He stepped right into it without a second thought--and since our hands were entwined, the barbarian pulled me right along with him.  It was only after passing through that barrier that the area came to life.  Jhanys, it was like nothing I had ever seen.  The room was black but illuminated somehow; colors seemed to glow and were bright in a manner that I have never witnessed.  Attendees had bands of these glowing, bright-colored lights about their bodies and some brought around trays of little pebble-looking edibles.   Savid took one of the morsels, as did the pretty human.  Maybe he had two; I cannot recall.  Each became somewhat... intoxicated.  That is the closest I can describe their resulting behavior; it seemed as if they were enjoying themselves much more than they were only seconds prior.  Temerity and Adryssa began dancing, and so Savid drew me into the crowd along with them.  You know I can never pass up an opportunity to showcase my talents, and so I gave those gathered an exhibition of my many years of practice in the art.  For as large as he is and despite his condition, the dusk elf was rather nimble.  He managed to keep up with me and even could halfway engage in several of the movements native to Evermeet.  I was mildly impressed.   We whiled away the evening dancing, mostly.  The masses moved together to the music playing, almost as if they were flowers swaying in a breeze.  It was hypnotizing.  I think the scholar and paladin--along with the tiny one--went to investigate something during our frolicking.  I am unsure.  Perhaps they desired the more quiet seating upstairs.  Nevertheless, our festivities ended somewhat abruptly when a pair of those devil spawned creatures let their gazes linger on my person.  Apparently, Savid thought the duration too long and became defensive.  He confronted one, but it was more physical than verbal.  He just slapped the creature right across the face, knocking the tiefling to the ground.  It was certainly uncalled for.  Utterly so.  But I could not reason with Savid; he would not listen, despite my pleadings.   I finally goaded him back to Adryssa and Temerity, but the other sharply-dressed ndividual approached after several moments.  Just as I calmed the giant of an elf, as luck would have it.  Whatever he ingested was doing nothing to temper his emotions.  In fact, I am quite certain it exacerbated them.  The individual’s boss wished to see him, Savid translated.  The request set off numerous red flags, but the barbarian sauntered off all the same.  I accompanied him to hold the dusk elf in check, as did the pretty human.  We were led to the chambers of some two-headed beast, Jhanys.  Both heads spoke and it even wore a little jacket.  It wasn’t quite as big as the fire giant from that morning, but it looked surlier.  The brute asked to purchase me, which--as you can imagine--sent your sweet Savid right into another fit. Thank Hanali for the effectiveness of my spells that day.  Blowing a sweet scent to intoxicate the ettin, he no longer posed a threat and I summarily coaxed Savid from the place.  We had no business there, not with creatures of such a sort--and I wished for us to be free of conflict.  Such a concept was not in our immediate future, it seemed, as Savid--and I do apologize for the graphic nature of this, my friend--smashed the head of the remaining tiefling guard against the wall as we passed.  Without provocation.  I have never feared for my wellbeing more than at that moment.  Our fair city sees little violence, if any at all, and I have been privileged to lead a passive, carefree existence.  I was not prepared to watch a man die that day. After watching a creature’s snuff out like a sputtering flame, it was necessary to retreat and reflect on the situation I had put myself in.   I sat upstairs at one of the tables where some aristocrats seemed to be mingling.  Thalandril would be livid with me when he discovered the degree of danger I was immersed in.   The barkeep came over to assumedly offer a beverage, but we could not communicate, so he left.  Savid, of whom I was certainly tentative at this point, sat down with me, bringing two bottles of what I assumed to be wine.  He drank one as if it were naught but water, but he became sick soon into his drink and I was forced to cry out for Kasimir as the enormous elf became startlingly pale.  The paladin accompanied him and veritably saved Savid’s life.  You have Corellon to thank for your dusk elf, Jhanys.  Chelyse requested that I stay and watch him, as they were embroiled in trouble of their own, but Savid would not have it.  He said he could not protect me in his state and thus the paladin insisted that stay safely in her company.  I did not argue. Kasimir and Chelyse hefted the enormous elf’s weight between them and to another corridor, where the others were waiting amid a rather grisly scene.  Forms lay splayed upon the floor like morbid decoration--hooded and menacing, but unmoving.  Apparently there had been some sort of disagreement or fight.  I knew not.  And had no need or desire to know more than what I did.  A creature with the head of a serpent was bound nearby, an unsettling sight by all interpretations of the term.  I stayed near Savid, who had been sat within a plush armchair, as the adventuring party investigated the premises, which looked to me to be some sort of office.  They were not conversing in elvish, so I knew not of which they spoke.  But everyone looked stoic, intent in their current tasks.  I worried as to what we might have stumbled upon. Suddenly, Chelyse began speaking aloud in our tongue, communicating with Adryssa from what I could tell.  She and Temerity had been left downstairs during all the commotion and at some point, the club itself had detached from where we were currently.  Some sort of dimensional door, given that the youngest Dawnbloom reported being in an entirely different part of the city now.  The paladin instructed the pair to be careful and to meet us back at the guild hall.  The festivities were obviously over.  Someone slung the snakeman over a shoulder and we returned to the group’s home.  Thankfully, Adryssa and the devil girl were well, having been spared both confrontations.   They wished to continue their celebrations, a notion that I could not argue with as I required a rather stiff drink at this point.  But not before Adryssa pulled me aside and informed me that not only had she watched Ricatavio and myself make love previously, but that she somehow reported to Thalandril--through some ungodly means--the aforementioned liaison and was concerned that the eladrin and myself were plotting against Evermeet?   It was then I knew my fate was sealed.  Savid also moved over to interrupt her, apologizing for his violent outbursts, citing the influence of the substances he ingested.  I was so overcome with the Dawnbloom girl’s news that I couldn’t even afford much attention to the giant elf, nodding at him blankly.  It was only because she mentioned that you had expressed your regards that I knew Thalandril would not disown me as soon as I stepped back into Evermeet. We did go out on the town soon enough, to a smaller establishment that felt much like those taverns near the harbor.  Knowing it was my last night in Nexus, I did drink rather heavily, spending the last hours of the day dancing with Savid and even managing to get Kasimir on his feet.  It was a concerted effort, I shalln’t take all the credit.  Savid made for Chelyse, encouraging her to take the floor with him, whilst I plied my admittedly drunken wiles on the scholar.  He was amused, if only just so, and acquiesced to my insistence--but likely only because Chelyse had been swept up with the barbarian.  When the number was finished, Savid and I made use of the coat closet before being corralled home by the paladin, who apparently plays the part of mother hen for the group. I would be remiss to not mention that apparently the demon girl and Adryssa expressed their intent to bind.  The House Dawnbloom shall go up in a sea of flames should the Senator become aware of this ordeal, to be sure.  How the pair shall manage to successfully engage in such a union is both beyond me and none of my business.  Lineage is such a touchy subject with the nobles.  I left Savid in his room upon our return--as he was likely exhausted and still recovering from the day’s events--and went to secure any loose ends with Ricatavio.  It was perhaps 2 or 3 in the morning, but it was necessary to be sure of our arrangements lest I anger Thalandril additionally by being sloppy in my dealings. The eladrin answered the door in suited sleepwear decorated with tiny renditions of his saber-toothed cat.  Of course, my inebriated self was very much bemused by the sight.  It did not take long to review the parameters of our agreement, but it was a necessary step.  Such matters cannot be treated lightly.  As I was about to leave, Ricatavio casually mentioned that he wished to share my bed once more, citing the fact that we might as well given that I had woken him, but the great feline forbade as much.  Tickled that Mr. Kittums dictated Ricatavio’s partners, I ultimately did as I pleased if for no other reason than to spite the great cat.  ‘No’ is a word I hardly know the meaning of.  I was surprised, following our intimacy, to learn that the ranger preferred the company of men.  But apparently not when superior skills are in play, it would seem.   Having only a few hours until the conch-like craft arrived, the vehicle that was to carry me back to Evermeet, I wrote your dusk elf a quick note before gathering my things.  I probably should have bid him farewell in a more personable manner, but I had not the courage for it.  I was worried about Thalandril’s reaction, now that he was aware of my excursion, and was still somewhat uneasy around the enormous dusk elf.  My trip home was much less uneventful than the journey there.  I did not see the herd of centaur that had ferried me to the Fae Wilds’ guild hall initially, which was a disappointment.  They were such interesting companions; I should have liked to learn more about them. I hope you enjoyed the tale, my friend, although next time you wish for such a telling, you needn’t disguise it as a statement mandated by the agency.  I would be happy to tell you whatever you wished of my adventures, if you should just ask.  Even the torrid bits.  Especially the torrid bits.  If you’re reading this at the office, give Thalandril my love and I will not forget to include you on my next journey to Nexus, should such an endeavor occur.  I will most certainly put in a good word for you with Savid, I promise.  

[emalynde]

D&D Soap Opera Synopsis 9/10 prequel ft. Arkhein & the DM

((As I’m sure you guys have figured out, my elf boyfriend NPCs are written by our wonderful DM, who also happens to be my husband, Merlon.  This RP gem includes the amazing writing of my partner-in-crime https://arkhein.tumblr.com/, who plays Adryssa.  Check back here if you need help sorting out the characters: http://emalynde.tumblr.com/post/152820810771/dd-soap-opera-synopses AND http://emalynde.tumblr.com/post/156271641901/new-elf-boyfriend-campaign-character-the-oc-of.  Emalynde is disguised as Ilayne, since she’s flit off to Nexus without Thalandril knowing to stir up trouble.)) The cantina of the guild hall was teeming with jubilation and excitement as entire teams of adventurers had returned from their jobs. Creatures of all colors, sizes, and species roamed about the room, enjoying the comradery that they had missed while away. Some had taken up instruments and were playing battle-songs of their exploits. Songs of romance, danger and treasure also rang throughout the hall as skilled musicians put tall tales to the test.

Savid had insisted that he and Ilayne spend breakfast at the cantina--after having spent yesterday practically bed-bound--watching people and things go by. The silver-haired elf had never seen the vast majority of these creatures before, and so was engrossed in watching and learning about them, a penchant the dusk elf was well-aware of.  They had procured a decently large, round table early on in the festivities so that the remainder of their group could accumulate at the table as each awoke. Kasimir, Chelyse, Adryssa, Dak, and Kyr were all eventually shuffled into the seating around the table by the enormous elf as they slowly emerged from their slumber.  Even the angel Gabriel decided to grace them with his presence. Upon spending hours eating and drinking--as Savid does, he leaned in to talk to the group in a semi-hushed, semi-yelling tone of voice that he so loved to use when talking about secret plans.

"Savid remembers that we have plans this evening for the Ball we have decided to infiltrate, yes?" He looks around at the table, his compatriots half full with food as he interrupted what was until then a silent period of feasting. "Savid feels....that taking a partner would be the best course of action, as it would add to the truth of who we are attempting to be!" The towering elf stood up and pushed his chair backwards, slamming it accidently against the hind legs of a large, mantis-looking creature that returned the shove with a clattering of its mandibles. Savid was not sure if it was angry or attempting a mating call, so--with a shrug--he continued, proceeding to bend onto one knee in front of the lovely Ilayne. "Savid would like to know if he could grace you with his presence at a Ball as your partner for the evening." He hit her with his full, beaming grin, one that would be cheesy on anyone else, but he truly thought it was as effective as the rest of him.

The notion of a ball causes the elf with hair like starlight to lift a single, intrigued eyebrow.  She was quite versed in such affairs within the bounds of Evermeet, but the kind of party -this- town might throw… a smirk curls the corners of her lips at the very thought.  Not familiar with the group’s plans for the evening (as far as the cult is concerned), Emalynde/Ilayne bit at her bottom lip in anticipation.  Not only would this be a perfect opportunity to people-watch, but it would also be her last evening here in Nexus and a suitable send-off.  Savid was a charming companion, if a bit… dull intellectually.  He could not play the Game with her, but such a thing was not a requirement for dalliances of this sort.  Even so, Jhanys would be positively beside herself with jealousy, a thought that brings a broader span to the smirk that hovered atop the freckled elf’s mouth. The enchantress homes back into the conversation as Savid kneels before her.  Being unfamiliar with the rather human gesture, her head cants to the side in curiosity, spilling several curls the color of mithril over one shoulder.  Even on one knee, the hulking elf was taller than her seated figure, forcing Emalynde/Ilayne to look up to flash both a winsome and flattered smile at Savid as she understood his intention.  “I would be honored,” she responds in silken tones that constantly skirted being coy.  There was an almost constant playfulness about her person that perhaps gave the impression that the elf did not take many things seriously, although even Kasimir could not discount her intelligent gaze.  She had even managed to impress him with her knowledge of the Astral Plane upon their first meeting.  Shame the same could not be said of their private encounter. Chelyse turns to Kasimir and a look of affirmation passes between the pair.  It did not need to be spoken that the golden elf and her darker consort would be attending the celebration in each other’s immediate company.  They spent the vast majority of their time in such a manner as it was, even selecting an apartment within the guild hall together--sleeping/trancing and living in the same space.  It was a sudden and abrupt shift in their relationship--as the group was well-aware thanks to Savid, but the quiet couple seemed very much enamored with one another.  

The young paladin was thankful that Kasimir did not put on a show about the ordeal as Savid did, but the latter did have a penchant for the dramatic.  And Savid seemed to be enjoying himself with the girl from Evermeet.  Blushing slightly, the fey knight feels ashamed at how well-received and likable the priestess of Hanali was in comparison to herself.  Chelyse couldn’t be charming if she tried--at least not like that.  Ilayne’s easy, melodic laughter floats through the air at one of Savid’s jokes and Chelyse squeezes Kasimir’s hand--content, at least, in his companionship (not even knowing that he’d saved her from a rather petty gesture by the same elf the golden-haired girl was being slightly envious of). “Who will you take, then?”  The gentle paladin inquires of her younger sister, turning to view the smaller, strikingly similar elf better across the table.  Her intonations were kindly and soft, genuinely interested in making sure Adryssa had a companion for the evening if she so desired one.  But the elven girl was also too obtuse to know whom the diviner fancied or was fond of.  It was a gesture of care--for Chelyse, at least, who was admittedly trying to be sisterly to her sibling.  Although that intention manifest in a myriad of ways--not all of which were necessarily welcome by (or helpful to) the youngest Dawnbloom.

Adryssa absent-mindedly sucked down her orange juice, using her straw like a pro and twirling it around with her tongue.  Her mind was swirling with inventory reports, warehouse floor plans, artisan guild agreements, and business ledgers.  So much had happened in the last few days.  She was a legitimate business owner now.  The city of Nexus considered her an actual adult.  Soon, people would be relying on her for their livelihood.  It was exciting and scary.

But what kept on pulling her out of her happiness zone was the incessant giggling of that bubble-brained little drow slut who was flirting with Savid across the table.  Adryssa wasn't sure who the hell she was, or why she was at the table, but it was getting tiresome.  Chelyse seemed to take in dark elves like some crazy cat lady. Adryssa had almost completely purged Savid from her heart - and now this.

Perhaps she was being unfair.  The drow girl didn't seem to be all that stupid.  And perhaps she hadn't even giggled *once*.  But dammit, it seemed like everyone had somebody - except Adryssa.  She took a breath and forced her gaze away from Savid.  No, she had her business.  She was going to throw herself into her work and forget about everything and everyone else.  But suddenly Chelyse asked her about the ball.

"Take?  Who . . ?  The ball!" a look of panic spread across Adryssa's face.  "That's tonight?  I . .  I don't have anyone to take!  I don't even have anything to wear!"  Adryssa suddenly felt like throwing up orange juice all over the table, her eyes wide, staring at Chelyse.  Desperate, unable to form words, she mouthed 'Help me." Chelyse’s eyes widened in a reflection of the diviner’s panicked expression, feeling responsible for the shift in emotion and caring that Adryssa was distressed.  In an effort to calm her sister, the fey knight spoke in gentle, reassuring tones--not even slightly condescending or ingenuine, “Do not fret.  I am sure Kyr, Gabriel, or Dak would be happy to accompany you.”  The smile that spanned the golden-haired elf’s lips was kindly, attempting to both comfort her younger sibling as well as help solve her dilemma. “Or, perhaps someone you’ve an eye on?”  Emalynde/Ilayne smirks somewhat mischievously, clearly insinuating that Adryssa should choose the person for whom she had flirtatious feelings.  While the remaining party members were just fine and dandy, a gnome, a human, or an angel might not be the little elf’s partner of choice.  Not to mention Emalynde/Ilayne took every opportunity to subtly and expertly undermine Chelyse.  The silvery elf tosses a wink at Adryssa, offering her a wide grin of reassurance--essentially trying to provide alternative (and likely more desirable) options.  As well as to ease the smallest elf at the table’s worries.   “Is there someone you fancy?”  Her voice was lilting and melodic, resting her chin atop the platform created by the interlocked fingers of her hands.  “Or someone you enjoy spending your evenings with?”  Emalynde/Ilayne intentionally left her phrasing ambiguous so as to allow the listener to choose whether she was speaking of a dear friend or a lover.  The smirk against her lips was coy and bemused, adding, “And fear not.  We can always venture out to attain proper wardrobe for such an event.  Savid tells me that you design attire.  I assume, then, that I can depend on your tastes to be exquisite.”  Glancing over to the giant dusk elf for effect, the enchantress’ silvered eyes slide back to Adryssa, “Seeing as what handiwork I have been privy to is dashing.”  

Adryssa watched Chelyse's lips as her sister spoke.  Once again, the paladin didn't seem to get the urgency or importance of Adryssa's mind-bogglingly horrible ordeal.  This was the first chance for Adryssa to establish her brand - to show off her handiwork to an audience who would actually understand - and she was flubbing it horribly.  "I . .  yes . . . maybe . . ." she stumbled over her words.

Then the strange drow girl began to talk to her, but Adryssa realized she wasn't a drow at all.  She hadn't been paying attention, instead having just looked at the back of the elf's head and assumed.  And there was something else about her that she couldn't put her finger on.  Something she wasn't quite used to.  The girl was being nice to her.  She was complimenting Adryssa and not treating her like she was an idiot or insane.

"Exquisite? "  Adryssa said as a smile blossomed across her face, her whole body turning away from Chelyse towards the moon elf.  "I do design attire.  I do, I do.  I just opened a boutique and set up my atelier.  I'm in business!  Dawnbloom Couture.  I intend on having princesses and queens as my clientele one day!  I've been really busy, and I'm sorry, because I kind of get the feeling that I should know who you are.  Did we get introduced within the last few days, because my mind has been so busy with the business, I think I am becoming forgetful.  You even kind of look familiar.  Maybe I saw you at the Fairy Market in downtown Leuthilspar on Evermeet, buying a hazelnut butter pie for lunch from a little old lady with a green bonnet on a Thursday?  I'm Adryssa Ellifayne Dawnbloom, by the way.  Nice to meet you.  You are so pretty."

"I . . ." Adryssa looked down at her empty orange juice glass.  "I don't really have anyone.  There is someone I'm interested in, but she's far too important and busy to be involved with someone like me.  She's like, a superstar."

Emalynde/Ilayne smiled slightly as Adryssa turned her attention away from the young paladin, a semblance of triumph stirring in her chest.  Kasimir had forbade any outright harm come to his insipid companion, but he had made no mention of the enchantress utilizing other, more subtle means to exact her ends.  And it was unlikely anyone at the table was well-versed in the intricacies of vernacular and discourse enough to pick-up on the freckled elf’s small, deliberate blows to the fey knight’s esteem.   Growing up in a convent full of women, Emalynde/Ilayne was far too skilled at the covert art of belittling, undermining, and discounting others--all veiled in friendly jest or other such antics.  She had rarely made use of the skillset--it wasn’t really within her nature, but the doe-eyed elf grated on the courtesan like she’d never experienced before.  The blonde had not only taken Thalandril away from her for a time (not that Ema had even been present to feel that effect), but--more importantly--she had hurt him. Chelyse had begun to part her lips in response to Adryssa, but Emalynde/Ilayne cuts her off--the action likely seemingly innocent and unintentional, given that they knew not who the elf with hair like starlight really was.  Besides Kasimir, that is.  Even the courtier was unaware that the dusk elf wizard knew--and had altered her memories to preserve that advantage.  “Worry not,” she smiles enchantingly, “I have been in Nexus only three days now and have left my lodgings seldomly.”  The silvery elf politely declines to elaborate.    

At being complimented, Emalynde/Ilayne favors Adryssa with a winsome, gracious smile, nodding her head in thanks--a movement that causes the smaller curls about her face to bob slightly.  “It is my pleasure... Adryssa, is it not?”  It wasn’t much of a question, but simply elegantly posed as one in keeping with conversational paradigm.  As the smaller of the golden elves deflates, the mithril-haired elf flashes a mischievous grin, “Now, that has yet to be determined.  Come, the only way we shall find out is to ask.”  ((thaaaaat’s a 30 persuasion ;D))   Without waiting for a response, Emalynde/Ilayne rises in a fluid, graceful motion, smoothing her dress against her thighs and hips to encourage the gown to hang correctly upon her slender frame.  She was much more shapely than Chelyse--soft and curvaceous in all the place the gentle paladin was muscled and flat.  It didn’t help that the moon elf was astoundingly lovely ((Appearance 21)), prettier even than the Aasimar.  Casting a glance at the diviner over her shoulder, Emalynde/Ilayne’s lips bloom into that coy half-smirk of hers, beckoning Adryssa along for what the enchantress perceived as an adventure, “Shall we?”     

Adryssa's gaze slowly moved from the orange juice glass to the moon elf.  She didn't notice her sister begin to talk.  She didn't notice much of anything else.  This woman was speaking kindly to her, and it was something Adryssa craved.

"Three days in Nexus and you haven't been outside your room?" Adryssa's eye widened to the point where they crossed.  "But here is so much to see here.  So many wonderful sights.  The architecture is just amazing and there is a floating forest and there are so many different types of sentient creatures it's like a smorgasbord of flesh!"  She said, not realizing that the statement could be taken a myriad of ways.

"Oh, and yes, I'm Adryssa.  It was Clarissa.  But that's my human name.  Adryssa is my elf name and since I'm an elf, that's my name now," she nodded repeatedly with a smile.  The smile grew wider when the moon elf mentioned leaving.

"Oh yes, let's go!  I should show you around along the way.  I have a conveyance.  It's a little cherry red Mephit 9000 XTC that goes faster than a gold dragon and banks better than a broom.  The fire elemental at the core - I call her Petunia - is a speed-a-holic.  Petunia literally SCREAMS around corners.  The bucket seats, you just melt into them.  They caress your whole body.  And ermahgerd, the rumble.  You can feel it deep down inside your . . . insides.   I haven't taken anybody up in her yet.  You could be the very first!"

Adryssa slipped functional, yet classy green goggles from her bag and arranged them around her eyes with a light snap.  Then she followed along with the moon elf, completely ignoring everyone else at the table, including her sister.  "By the way, I think I missed your name again.  What was it?"

Emalynde/Ilayne clarifies, “Actually, I have been outside the guild hall--with Savid on the evening of my first day within Nexus, actually.”  The silvery-tressed elf turns a fond smile toward the half-dressed barbarian, who was seated next to her once more.  “We ventured to the circus so that I might marvel at all the varying races that comprise the population here.  It really is rather fascinating that so many sorts of creatures can call this place home.”  Almost absent-mindedly, the enchantress rests a palm against Savid’s forearm, a gesture of comfort and camaraderie--since she really didn’t know anyone else here.  The fact she only spoke Elvish compounded that.  “But I should be happy for a larger tour.  This must be one of the flying wagons--yes?” Starting to move from the table after giving the remainder a nod of farewell, the freckled elf lifts a silvered brow at Adryssa’s inquiry before her expression shifts into a wide smile, “Ilayne.  I am a priestess of Hanali back within Leuthilspar.”  

Savid was caught off guard as the two young elves decided to move off.  He had been following their conversation, but had enraptured himself in thoughts of what he was to wear at the ball.  Realizing that the ladies were leaving, without him, he stood up and moved off after them.  “Savid thinks it best if he came along.  Two lovely ladies that you are, you would be lost without the guidance of Savid.”  He starts to move up between the elven women, if allowed, and continues in a deep, knowing voice.  “Savid is aware of all of the best shops, owners, and parts of town for this.  Adryssa, you spend so much time working that Savid is not sure that you have seen some of the shops!”   He puts an arm across both girls, one each if allowed, and moves them off in the same direction.  “Plus, Savid will not be outdone.  Savid thinks that matching outfits are in order, as you will match Savid.”  His chisled features town to rather pointedly looks towards Ema/Ilayne, his expression displaying just how serious of an issue it was for the dusk elf; he truly appears to think that he needs to be the highlight of the duo.  “Savid also thinks Adryssa has excellent taste, and could help pick out something spectacular for all of us.”  His grin goes corner to corner as he enjoys the idea of a shopping spree with the girls.

Chelyse watches the trio move away, the silver-haired elf slipping happily beneath Savid’s arm and threading her own about his broad torso.  Her expression was slightly troubled, as if the fey knight felt unsure of herself.  The sight made her miss Aliera, the only real friend she had, and a subtle pang of remorse manifest that she could not relate to Adryssa so.  Chelyse mourned the fact the pair was just so different that it compounded their familial relationship.  Made it hard to communicate and share each other’s company. She turned an almost dejected visage to Kasimir, “Am I difficult to get along with?” she ventures in small, soft tones.  It was quiet enough to not attract the attention of those seated at their table.  “I… do not understand why the many dresses Adryssa possesses are not suitable.  Or… why she cannot simply attend the ball with…”  Blonde tresses shift forward as Chelyse looks at the table, her words trailing away.  Perhaps it was exactly this lack of understanding that formed a rift between the youngest Dawnbloom siblings and made Chelyse not nearly as well-liked or enthralling as Ilayne.  A sigh parts Chelyse’s lips.  She usually didn’t care about such things; it was odd that she gave regard to her appearance and what others thought of her at all.

"The circus?" the be-goggled elf girl exclaimed.  "How wonderful!  Wasn't it just so exciting?  So many different types of people.  Not like back home at all, yanno, where if you have a slightly different eyebrow shape they consider you a different species.  Oh, Savid may not have told you, but he's one of the best circus performers in the whole city."  Adryssa nodded vigorously and winked at the towering dusk elf in a manner that she thought was secret, though looked like more like a four-year old's pantomime wink using the entire head, neck, and shoulders.

Adryssa led the two down several tall corridors until they reached an external foyer connected to a parking structure loaded with flying vehicles.  She handed an invisible entity a red piece of paper, and the paper went aloft towards the parking areas.  "Flying wagons!  Yes.  That's what I called them too.  Here they call them SkyCoaches, which is kind of a boring name."

As they waited for the valet, Adryssa listened to the girl and learned her name and profession.  "It's so good to meet you, Ilayne.  And a priestess of Hanali, really?  My friends Amkissra and Ghilanna from the Bonnalurie Tree were priestesses of Hanali as well!  They said that the were 14th level Guzzlers.  I'm not sure how the bureaucracy works in the church, but that always sounded pretty important.  Fourteen whole levels.  Oh, look!  There is Petunia coming now!”

Adryssa pointed up at the bright red egg that was floating down towards them.  When the convertible hot rod landed, she handed the invisible valet a coin and hopped into the long couch making up the front seat.  "Ilayne, Savid, this is Petunia.  Petunia this is Ilayne and Savid.  Some say that the elementals that power these things are slaves.  But not Petunia," Adryssa caressed the quilted dashboard.  "Petunia LOVES being a flying wagon.  And she LOVES going fast.  And she LOVES to hear songs - the ruder and the more sexually explicit the better.  I know that sounds weird, but she really, really does. It makes her purr sooo loud.  So can you two help me sing to her?"

The enchantress happily sashayed beside Savid as the group of them headed toward this flying wagon of Adryssa’s.  Everything was so unique and in contrast to the well-organized, uniform--although still quite beautiful--Leuthilspar.  Silvered eyes gaze with open awe and curiosity, absorbing every bit of this adventure, her first foray outside of Evermeet. At the notion of Savid being a circus performer, Emalynde/Ilayne turns with admiring intrigue to her companion, but she was surprised to see a pout forming on his chiseled features.  Somewhat puzzled, the courtesan watches Adryssa wink at the giant of an elf, who just seemed to pout more. The discussion became even more interesting as the diviner mentioned the only two wood or wild elves within the priestesses of Hanali.  They were not at the temple much--preferring the outskirts of Leuthilspar, but she knew both.  It took a hand raised to conceal her lips to staunch the giggle that threatened to escape.  There was no such thing as levels within the ranks of Hanali’s priestesses, other than perhaps the standings of some courtesans who made a living from the profession rather than simply serving at the temple--of which Emalynde/Ilayne was one.  The silvery elf declined to tell the girl that the priestesses had been playing with her, though. The timing of the crimson contraption’s arrival was perfect--rescuing Emalynde/Ilayne from any moral obligation toward the truth.  Wonder sparkled in her eyes at the vehicle, cautiously climbing aboard and slipping onto the middle section of the long cushion suspended across the flying wagon’s width, Savid following along behind her.  The enchantress laughs outright, the sound melodic and bemused, at the notion that the car required her to sing.  Never one to not flaunt her own talents, the silvery-tressed elf shook her curls out behind her, straightening to better utilize her diaphragm as Savid lazily rested his arm along the back of their seat behind her.  The elf with hair like starlight begins a mournful melody, hauntingly beautiful, about seeking solace in the arms of numerous lovers after the loss of a true love.  It was explicit, in a way, but mostly heart-wrenching, the sort of ballad that reached into the soul and made one weep.  ((She’s actually trained in singing, so she rolled a 21))

The diviner listened in amazement at Ilayne's song, mouthing the words quietly, trying to commit them to memory.  She stroked the dashboard to the rhythm, and the light rumbling sound grew louder and louder down in the depths of the vehicle.  By the time Ilayne's song was over, Petunia sounded like a two ton metallic cat with an elephant full of cat-nip.  "By Sehanine, Ilayne, listen to that purr!  You've got her going louder than I've ever heard.  And smoother!  That raspy, grating sound in the back of her ventricular manifold is even gone.  Hot damn, she's gonna go faster than EVAR today!"

Adryssa began flipping switches all along the dashboard, turning knobs, priming pumps, and poking buttons.  "Guys, the couch is going to grab you in the privates, but that's okay.  It's how Petunia will keep you from flying out of the vehicle."  A high whine started in the huge, red, steaming kettle behind them.  "Come on Petunia.  Keep it up.  That's a good girl," Adryssa strapped a leather cap to her head, matching the goggles.  "At some point during the trip you may feel dizzy, nauseous, or like you are about to die.  That's normal," she began to yell over the noise.  "See all of these instruments on the dash?  Most of them emit magic to keep us alive.  But even if something goes wrong, Petunia explodes, and I burn to death, my corpse is going to float gently downward for a while, so grab on to one of my arms or legs and ride me until someone can rescue you.  Okay?"

A big red flashing button, the kind that looks like a button you should never press, was mashed under Adryssa's thumb.  Petunia rocketed forward, leaving a trail of fire blazing through the parking structure.  "Yeehaw!" the elf cheered as Ilayne and Savid were slammed backwards by the force of acceleration.  They sunk into the fabric of the couch - which suddenly felt like it was made of salt-water taffy - and were held immobile.  Petunia raced through the air, twirling around other vehicles like they were standing still, and blasted up the sides of building in a mad dash, leaving nothing in their wake except people shaking their fists angrily and cursing them for being a public nuisance.

Adryssa climbed higher and higher, skipping off of the sides of buildings until Petunia hung in the sky, motionless, far above even the tallest tower.  It was silent up here.  Adryssa pulled off her leather cap and her golden hair fluttered in the light breeze.  She looked downward and took in the entire city - the whole mass of color and light and little bitty moving things - all in one view.  She then turned to her passengers - panting slightly, her eyes wide, her breath heavy, her cheeks flushed, and a huge smile on her face.  "Petunia LOVES you, Ilayne.  She's showing off for you!"

Emalynde/Ilayne lets the last note of her melody hang in the air, a final farewell to the tale and the emotions that were engendered as a result.  The courtesan was forced to take a steadying breath.  That particular ballad always hit her more deeply than any of the other songs within her repertoire; it was the enchantress’ favorite.  A confident, contented smile made its way to her freckled visage shortly, somewhat emotionally spent but pleased with her performance.  The vehicle was indeed making noise, and--to an elf unfamiliar with machinery--seemed rather alive.  Trepidatious but optimistic, the silvery elf pressed herself against Savid’s side, unconsciously seeking some sort of protection with that gesture as the noise and shuddering grew. The confidence begins to ebb away slightly, the courtier not looking concerned, exactly, but hesitant--all while still keeping the semblance of a smile upon her lips.  She casts a glance at Savid, searching for whether he was equally skeptical, but the dusk elf leans over with a roguish grin upon his face, spouting off with the intent of being reassuring, “Savid sees that you are uncertain.  Do not be.  Savid shook you much harder the previous evening.  And he makes much more noise.” ((DM’s words, not mine T_T))  Emalynde/Ilayne barks a loud laugh, both tickled and somewhat surprised at the comment.  With a few delicate fingers, she grabs his jaw, pulling the well-muscled elf’s features down to kiss him firmly before releasing her hold--bolstered as to the safety of their travel.  ((rolled a 20 for her reaction XD)) Savid’s encouragement could not have come at a better time, allowing Emalynde/Ilayne to mostly shrug off Adryssa’s various warnings.  The silver-haired elf was excited, one hand clinging to Savid just in case, but no longer worried about their venture’s degree of danger.  As the SkyCoach rockets forward, the force squashes the enchantress into the embrace of the seat cushions, white knuckles holding Savid’s giant mitt of a hand as she yelled exuberantly.  It was unlike anything she had ever experienced, the wind rushing through her hair and buffeting her elongated ears.  A laugh would punctuate their trajectory every so often, delight and amazement implicit in the sound. As the trio banked and hovered a great distance above Nexus, Emalynde/Ilayne realized that the city was just a floating mote.  In her exhilaration, the courtesan attempts to pry herself from the seat, crawling over Savid’s lap to look over the edge--if allowed.  Savid would wrap an arm about the enchantress’ waist easily, securing her into the vehicle should her curiosity get the better of her.  Bent over on her knees atop the dusk elf’s thighs, Emalynde/Ilayne casts a glance over her shoulder at Adryssa, beaming at the fact the fire elemental had taken a liking to her person.  Reaching out with a hand, the priestess pats the quilted dash approvingly, as she had seen the diviner do prior.           

The nervousness that had been welled up inside of Adryssa's belly, hidden but constant, suddenly lifted and she laughed.  Ilayne and Savid had actually liked the mad and hectic ride.  It dawned on Adryssa that Chelyse would have freaked out and started screaming, accusing her of being irresponsible, childish, and insane.  But not them.  She had watched them kiss and did not felt jealous.  She watched Ilayne climb all over Savid with her butt in the air and did not feel ill at ease at all.  In fact, the sight was quite welcome.

"I've come up here quite often since I realized that this was a place," Adryssa started, her voice calm and thoughtful.  "No one is ever up here.  Maybe an occasional bird.  Or flying thing.  Whatever those metallic bees with eight heads are.  But no people really.  It's peaceful and quiet and you can just relax.  It's so high - we might be at least a mile up.  I figured that maybe, if I ever took anyone else up here, that it would be a special event, so I needed a special name.  So I decided that everyone who came up here was going to be a member of the a this very special club.  So welcome to the Mile High Club.  It's a secret, so don't tell anyone."

After a few minutes, Adryssa began to turn knobs and flip switches, causing the hot rod to descend.  "Thank you so much for coming here with me.  I heard what ya'll said about buying some clothes . . . but I can't.  I can't wear anyone else's clothing.  It would betray my brand.  So I need to make my own clothes for tonight.  And I'd be honored if I could make you clothes for the ball too.  Anything you'd like.  Anything you can describe.  It can have images on it - animated images.  Flames.  Clouds.  Woodland scenes with illusory pixies and fairies flying around you.  It could even be see-through at will.  I'm pretty good.  And the two of you would be helping me tremendously be wearing them, since you both are so very pretty.  Could you please help me out?  You can keep the clothes forever!"

Petunia drifted calmly, slowly down - back into the city with it's movement and frenetic energy.  The buildings Adryssa steered them towards were of odd shapes - experimental - avant-garde - artistic.  "The girl I like - Temerity - lives right over there at that shop.  I didn't really forget to ask her.  I just don't think she'd say yes.  She's so busy.  I'm scared that she'll say no.  I just don't know what to do about that, since I'd normally barge over and ask.  But I'm so nervous.  My head has been changing a lot recently.  Ilayne - what should I do?  How can I learn to be so calm and self-assured just like you are?"  The crimson conveyance sat down a block away from the shop.  Adryssa was visibly shaking and she licked her lips nervously, looking at Ilyane with imploring eyes.

As Adryssa begins to speak, Emalynde/Ilayne pulls herself away from her sight-seeing, marveling at the scene below one last time before sliding back into her seat.  Savid left his arm about her waist, giving her a playfully wary look--as if she might bound over him once more.  The enchantress flashes him a reassuring grin, silently attempting to assuage any discomfort, and the enormous elf seemed to relax more.  Silvered eyes watch the smaller, golden elf, nodding appropriately to her words.  “A secret, then,” she affirms, a curt nod solidifying her commitment to confidentiality.   When the hot rod is activated once more, the enchantress nestles back into the seat’s padding, waiting for it to take hold of her, as she entwined her fingers with Savid’s again--not a romantic gesture, but more of a safety assurance.  Silvery brows loft in interest at the notion of having a custom-made gown.  She so very much loved to stand out in a crowd, so a modeling gig was right up Emalynde/Ilayne’s alley.  Biting at her bottom lip, she grinned widely, clearly thrilled at the prospect.  It’s a shame that she would be leaving Nexus in the morning and couldn’t create clientele here.  This would have been the perfect opportunity.  Although, admittedly, she wasn’t quite keen on becoming intimate with all these varying sorts of creatures.    

“Of course!”  The freckled elf would have hugged Adryssa, agreeing to her offer, but Petunia seemed about to take off.  It would probably be wisest to stay in her seat.  The courtesan’s wariness was unjustified, though, given that the car drifted slowly back to the city streets, their trajectory easy and gentle.  Upon arriving at a very creative-looking district, the architecture itself seeming a work of art, Emalynde/Ilayne turns to regard Adryssa as the vehicle slows.  Sympathy veils her feminine features, feeling for the younger elf.  Who hadn’t been in her shoes at one point or another?  Extending a gentle hand, the enchantress attempts to place it against the diviner’s shoulder, “Just be yourself,” she smiles encouragingly.  “Confidence and self-assurance are simply byproducts of practice, dear.”  Her word were calm and sweet; it was obvious that her patience was vast, or perhaps she worked with children.  Growing up in an orphanage and part of a sect comprised mainly of women, it was likely both.  “Worry not; I am sure she would be delighted to join you.”  ((Persuasion 25))  “Would you rather us wait here or accompany you?” Temerity’s shop was small but fierce, decorated tastefully--yet eccentrically--in dark, brooding colors, giving the establishment a mysterious quality.  There was a single, large window in the front of the store, edged with blood red, velvet curtains on the inside.  Each hanging panel of velvet was pulled back and secured to the outer perimeter of the window with a black ribbon.  A few paintings were on display, but weren’t exactly visible just yet.  An ‘Open’ sign hung on the quaint door, which was directly to the right of the display window.  The lighting inside was dim, almost eerie, but slight movement was perceptible within.  

The golden-haired sun elf beamed at Ilayne.  "Thank you for offering to be one of my experiments, and your advice!  Wow.  You are so helpful and wonderful.  I keep thanking you, but it doesn't seem to be enough," Adryssa sighed, then cocked her head.  "You know, Amkissra and Ghilanna from the Bonnalurie Tree taught me how to formally thank a priestesses of Hanali.  We actually spent a lot of time on practice.  Amkissra said I was really good at Thanksgiving because I can grow my tongue out to at least 14 inches, while Ghilanna said that the best features were that it was prehensile and I could make it forked at the end.  I would be happy to formally thank you if you want, anytime.  Just let me know," she said with the respect and piety of a parishioner discussing communion wafers with a Catholic priest.

Adryssa's gaze then moved from Ilayne to Temerity's shop. She chewed on her bottom lip, thinking briefly.  "Yes, I think I'll take you up on your offer.  You can come on up and meet Temerity, and maybe I can get a bit distracted and less nervous."  The elf flipped several switches on the vehicle and stroked the quilted dashboard gently.  Then with a deep breath, she exited and began to walk towards the shop.  She looked back to make sure the others were coming too.

A bell rang on the quaint door as Adryssa opened it, and she peered inside the dark and eccentric shop.  "Temerity?  Helloooooo?  It's me!  Adryssa.  That elf you know."  She suddenly remembered that she was still wearing the emerald goggles and yanked them off her face in a flurry of activity, then nervously pretended there hadn't been anything on her face at all.  An errant strand of hair dangled across her eye, nose and mouth, which she desperately blew at to get rid of, but the stubborn thing resisted.  Adryssa screamed internally.

Emalynde/Ilayne smiled kindly at the elven girl, wondering inwardly if anyone had taken the time to advise Adryssa previously.  Or taken the time to really talk to her.  Given the diviner’s reaction--and the enchantress’ experiences with children, either Adryssa had a great need for attention, or she did not get nearly enough positive reinforcement.   But the silvery elf’s brows loft in surprise and she blinks, lips parting in keeping with her reaction, at the notion that Amkissra and Ghilanna treated the Dawnbloom girl that way.  Of course, there was no such thing as this Thanksgiving or any formal method of giving thanks as a priestess of Hanali.  Masquerading thusly was a slight to the doctrine and their beliefs--as well as the sanctity of their rites.  It was almost making a mockery of them.  She didn’t know the wood and wild elven girls well, but the matron would have to hear of this.  Emalynde/Ilayne herself was concerned, not only for any additional untruths these two were telling, but if they had taken advantage of the sun elf, who looked to be not over 75.  A child. ((Consulted DM for all of that)) The courtesan decided not to mention the severity of the issue--not yet at least.  It would do Adryssa no good to be told these girls were lying to her.  In fact, it would probably make her feel betrayed or foolish--neither feeling would be beneficial toward the trio’s current ends.  Maybe later.  Emalynde/Ilayne took only a moment to return to her light-hearted demeanor, well-practised at veiling her own sentiments, but still worried for the girl’s well-being.  She might have a talk with the pair herself, although Matron Linarralh commanded much more respect than the courtier herself did.  It wouldn’t surprise her if the matron removed the duo from the order entirely, given that they were dealing in minors and falsehoods about the religion. Although offering a warm smile to the smaller elf, Emalynde/Ilayne just nodded her head gratefully, choosing not to comment on the offer of thanks.  Savid exited the vehicle first, helping her from the confines of the car.  It was difficult to not be somewhat motherly toward the poor girl, but the freckled elf did not wish to interfere with the purpose of their outing.  So instead, she rubbed Savid’s back soothingly, although the gesture had been meant for Adryssa.  The older elves followed along silently, watching and waiting.