Elyra's Finale

A glass-roofed garden courtyard (indoors).
This open space sits at the centre of the Ty Beirdd estate, protected from the weather by
a vaulted glass ceiling. Nestled around the edges of the courtyard, broad-leaf ferns and
other hardy greenery grow with little rhyme or reason. Crawling vines climb all along the
outer walls, dotted here and there with colourful blossoms. Plain sandstone paths lead
from each building in the complex, meeting at a three-tiered fountain in the centre. Fed
by a natural spring deep beneath the manor, the fountain bubbles with joyful serenity, and
its trickling laugh tickles every corner of the courtyard. The sun warms the sandstone,
leaving the moist air soporific during the day and pleasantly bracing at night. A wide arc
of sky is visible through the sparkling clear glass, making the space feel open and free,
as though there were no ceiling at all. A runic totem is planted solidly in the ground.
There are 4 runic knights here. A nebulous water weird is here. Exuding a most fearful
atmosphere, a terrifying chimera ominously skulks about here. The Silver Dragon Ahmet's
imposing form looms. Alieze Etesiae is here. Squire Salisa Desmijr, Discurean Critic is
here. Her face is partially concealed beneath the raised hood of an ebony cloak strewn
with star maps. She wields a Shield of Absorption in her left hand and deSangre's spite in
her right. Carver Aivilyn Lanthe-Oj'anen is here. She wields a rich dual-chocolate lava
cake in her left hand. Sapling Raza, of the Blackberry Bush is here. Rane Zviera is here.
Squire Aereidhna Tiercel, the Firebrand is here. She wields a rudimentary deep sea fishing
pole in both hands. Burnished Sentry Vika is riding on a dreadful chimera. She wields a
Scimitar of Eagles in each hand. Forestwalker Herutar is here. He wields a twisted oaken
staff in both hands. Discurean Pathwalker Idissa Rian-Moonshadow is here. She wields a
sooty, iron lash in her left hand and a sooty steel buckler in her right. Laedha Zviera,
Virtuosi Cellist is here. She wields an inlaid rosewood mandolin in her left hand. Araig
Traseran, Southern Vashnarian Artist is here. Squire Mazel Traseran, Vashnarian Gadfly is
here. Adventurous Impressionist Elyra Vorondil is here. Imperor Navarr Tiercel,
Impressionist is here. His face is partially concealed beneath the raised hood of a wolf-
skin and nacre velvet cloak. Instrumentalist Chimble is here. Tumbler Kenara is seated
here. She wields an elemental staff in her right hand. Fabricator Rhalts Cil'Raine, Magi-
Khral Sea Monkster is here. His face is partially concealed beneath the raised hood of a
wolf-skin and nacre velvet cloak. He wields a twisted oaken staff in both hands. Novelist
Jinos Inficio-Tiercel is here. His features are obscured by a two-sided black and white
mask. He wields a plain parchment scroll in his left hand and a quill fashioned from a
lunalia feather in his right.
You see exits leading north, east, south, and west.

Aereidhna runs up to Elyra and envelops her in a massive bearhug.

Araig says to Aereidhna with a Vashnarian accent, "Thought I'd fill you in."

Aivilyn laughs melodically at Aereidhna.

Rane says in a deeply calm voice, "Think she means' I've navarr seen him."

Xik clasps her hands before herself, faces Vika, and performs a simple, respectful bow.

Aereidhna grins mischievously at Rane.

Aivilyn raises her hand in greeting to Xik and says "Hi!"

Navarr smiles impishly and says to Araig in a deep, resonant voice, "Still catching up
with figuring out who is related to whom."

Araig nods his head at Navarr, showing his acceptance.

Kenara flashes Herutar a joyous smile.

Navarr grins mischievously at Rane.

Jinos's eyes sparkle with amusement.

Raza gives Herutar a compassionate hug.

Smirking confidently, Navarr and Rane casually bump fists.

Herutar nods his head at Kenara.
k-
Tolling to the midnight hour, the deep bass tones from the clock tower reverberate
throughout the valley and resonate softly through the cool mountain air.
k-
Herutar raises his hand in greeting to Raza and says "Hi!"
k-clwho
The following members of the clan of The Vorondil Concord are in the realms:
Myna Vorondil                                                         (Druid)
Patria Young
Adventurous Impressionist Elyra Vorondil                              (Magi)
1 Druid and 1 Magi present, of those 0 are dragons (3 total).

Raza gives you a compassionate hug.

Raza says to you in a delicate voice, "Hello newphew."

The rich, sensual scent of leather surrounds Ahmet, intermingling seamlessly with smoky
notes of cut cedar to produce a distinct, primal bouquet.

Araig grips Aivilyn's hand.

Rane says in a deeply calm voice, "Who and whom used to be related, but they split over
jealousy issues. IT seems whom always got the ball and would never give who a turn."

Araig smiles and says with a Vashnarian accent, "Nice turn out."

Navarr blinks incredulously at Rane.

Elyra's eyes gleam with generosity.

Elyra drops 50 sandwiches.

Rane says to Navarr in a deeply calm voice, "Grammar joke, it's a thinker."

Elyra drops 34 grilled portobello sandwiches.

Elyra drops 41 plates of kawhe-infused rapier biscotti.

Elyra drops 40 garden teacup of chocolate and caramel quills.

"Oooooooooh!" Salisa says, eyes wide with wonder.

"Oooooooooh!" Aereidhna says, eyes wide with wonder.

Elyra drops 20 glasses.

Xik chuckles long and heartily.

Raza picks up 3 delicate cucumber sandwiches on whole wheat.

Elyra drops 10 tall mugs of iced red tea with muddled blueberries.

Laedha claps her hands together merrily.

Raza furrows her brow and exclaims "Doh!"

Kenara tucks her head against Herutar's shoulder and cuddles in close.

Elyra drops 11 elegant flutes of iced white tea with orange peel.

Raza's eyes gleam with generosity.

Jinos picks up 2 plates of kawhe-infused rapier biscotti.

Araig utters a deep, rumbling laugh.

Aereidhna picks up a delicate cucumber sandwich on whole wheat.

Raza drops 3 delicate cucumber sandwiches on whole wheat.

Aivilyn grins mischievously at Araig.

Idissa picks up a delicate cucumber sandwich on whole wheat.

Araig congratulates Elyra with some wild clapping.

Laedha picks up a plate of kawhe-infused rapier biscotti.

Jinos picks up 2 delicate cucumber sandwiches on whole wheat.

Aereidhna picks up a grilled portobello sandwich.

Idissa nibbles tenderly on a delicate cucumber sandwich on whole wheat's ear.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "We have a lot of food."

Elyra's eyes sparkle with amusement.

Aereidhna picks up a plate of kawhe-infused rapier biscotti.

Aereidhna picks up a garden teacup of chocolate and caramel quills.

Kenara picks up a delicate cucumber sandwich on whole wheat.

Aivilyn picks up a delicate cucumber sandwich on whole wheat.

Raza picks up a grilled portobello sandwich.

Jinos picks up 2 elegant flutes of iced white tea with orange peel.

Chimble inclines his head politely at Elyra.

"Wow!" Araig exclaims.

Idissa says in a delicate, shy voice, "Yay food!"

Navarr's ears perk up with a sudden interest.

Araig picks up a plate of kawhe-infused rapier biscotti.

Aereidhna says with a lyrical southern accent, "The quills are my favorite."

Araig picks up a plate of kawhe-infused rapier biscotti.

Raza picks up a grilled portobello sandwich.

Navarr picks up a plate of kawhe-infused rapier biscotti.

Araig picks up a delicate cucumber sandwich on whole wheat.

Araig picks up a delicate cucumber sandwich on whole wheat.

Raza rubs her hands together greedily.

Jinos picks up 2 garden teacup of chocolate and caramel quills.

Raza picks up a grilled portobello sandwich.

Laedha picks up a delicate cucumber sandwich on whole wheat.

Araig picks up a tall mug of iced red tea with muddled blueberries.

Araig picks up a tall mug of iced red tea with muddled blueberries.

Araig picks up a glass of sparkling jasmine tea.

Raza says to Elyra in a delicate voice, "Thanks for the food dear."

Elyra's mouth turns up as her face breaks into a smile.

Kenara picks up a tall mug of iced red tea with muddled blueberries.

Idissa picks up a garden teacup of chocolate and caramel quills.

Laedha picks up a glass of sparkling jasmine tea.

You watch Idissa eat half a dozen chocolate-covered caramel quills from a garden teacup.

Araig picks up a grilled portobello sandwich.

Zendor has been slain by the might of Grimlath, the old snow tiger.

Salisa puts a gem of cloaking into a turtle shell pouch.

Araig picks up a grilled portobello sandwich.

Elyra laughingly says in a calm, confident voice, "What would a Virtuosi party be without
heaps of food?"

Laedha sighs contentedly.

Kenara nods her head slowly, looking very wise.

Araig utters a deep, rumbling laugh.

Aivilyn picks up a plate of kawhe-infused rapier biscotti.

Aereidhna nods her head slowly, looking very wise.

Araig's eyes gleam with generosity.

Araig gives a grilled portobello sandwich to Aivilyn.

Araig rubs his hands together greedily.

Idissa says in a delicate, shy voice, "I love caremel!"
-
Mazel smiles impishly and says in a light, airy voice, "Everyone feel free to eat, but
remember to chew quietly once the show starts."

Aivilyn crosses her eyes and makes a face at Araig.

Zendor has been slain by the might of Grimlath, the old snow tiger.

You pick up a grilled portobello sandwich.

Laedha takes a sip of a glass of sparkling jasmine tea, the intense fragrance wafting
about her.

Vika, riding a dreadful chimera, gallops in from the west.

Aivilyn picks up a garden teacup of chocolate and caramel quills.

You watch Kenara quickly devour a delicate cucumber sandwich on whole wheat.

Aivilyn picks up a glass of fizzy lemonade and black tea.

Kenara takes a healthy swig from a tall mug of iced red tea with muddled blueberries,
sucking her teeth slightly afterwards.

Rane says in a deeply calm voice, "Dinner AND a show?!"

Elyra grins and nods.

Jinos's eyes sparkle with amusement.

Aereidhna says with a lyrical southern accent, "Lucky us!"

Araig takes a healthy swig from a tall mug of iced red tea with muddled blueberries,
sucking his teeth slightly afterwards.

Rane rubs his hands together.

Idissa takes a sip of a glass of sparkling jasmine tea, the intense fragrance wafting
about her.

Mokoshie, riding a sure-footed garron, arrives from the west.

Raza picks up a tall mug of iced red tea with muddled blueberries.

Araig utters a deep, rumbling laugh at Aivilyn.

The rich, earthy aroma of cedar clings to Ahmet, undercut by the briefest hint of fresh
citrus paired with sensuous leather overtones.

Mokoshie blinks.

Araig rolls on the floor in front of Aivilyn, laughing.

Mokoshie, riding a sure-footed garron, leaves to the west.

Discurean Ranger, Ahmet Ter'sez's breath crackles and sparks as he says, "Wait what are
all these people doing at my drinking spot?"

The corners of Ahmet's mouth turn up as he grins mischievously.

Mathilda has fallen victim to the extraordinary powers of Legionnaire Issam in The
Gauntlet.

The corners of Aivilyn's mouth turn up as she grins mischievously.

Araig says to Ahmet with a Vashnarian accent, "Waiting for you."

Idissa says in a delicate, shy voice, "It's a party, Ahmet!"

Mokoshie, riding a sure-footed garron, arrives from the west.

Kenara tucks her head against Herutar's shoulder and cuddles in close.

Discurean Ranger, Ahmet Ter'sez's breath crackles and sparks as he says, "I see no
darkbrew. Therefore it's not a party."

You raise your hand in greeting to Mokoshie and say "Hi!"

Herutar raises his hand in greeting to Mokoshie and says "Hi!"

Araig begins to wield a delicate cucumber sandwich on whole wheat in his left hand.

Kenara takes a healthy swig from a tall mug of iced red tea with muddled blueberries,
sucking her teeth slightly afterwards.

Laedha says in a silvery voice, "Sam has the, uh, powerful drinks."

Aivilyn's eyes sparkle with amusement at Ahmet.

Elyra walks around the fountain once, mumbling absently to herself.

Araig begins to wield a grilled portobello sandwich in his right hand.

Mokoshie says in a soft, timid voice, "H- hello...! P- please excuse me...! Th- this is
just too much...!"

Mokoshie, riding a sure-footed garron, leaves to the west.

Chimble says with a Mhunnish accent, "Powerful drinks?"

Elyra begins to set up her easels in a circle around the fountain in the middle of the
room, moving carefully.

Elyra drops an easel displaying a portrait of a mhun woman.
Carefully extending the legs of an easel displaying a portrait of a mhun woman, Elyra
raises the horizontal support to an appropriate height and places a portrait of a mhun
woman upon it.

Rhalts claps his hands together merrily.

Elyra drops an easel displaying a portrait of a man braced for battle.
Carefully extending the legs of an easel displaying a portrait of a man braced for battle,
Elyra raises the horizontal support to an appropriate height and places a portrait of a
man braced for battle upon it.

Elyra fusses with the easels a bit, getting them all to stand just so.

Elyra drops an easel displaying a landscape of rows of plum trees.
Carefully extending the legs of an easel displaying a landscape of rows of plum trees,
Elyra raises the horizontal support to an appropriate height and places a landscape of
rows of plum trees upon it.

Elyra drops an easel displaying a still life of a teacup decorated with a rose.
Carefully extending the legs of an easel displaying a still life of a teacup decorated
with a rose, Elyra raises the horizontal support to an appropriate height and places a
still life of a teacup decorated with a rose upon it.

Elyra drops an easel displaying a landscape of a pair of atavians on the bow of a ship.
Carefully extending the legs of an easel displaying a landscape of a pair of atavians on
the bow of a ship, Elyra raises the horizontal support to an appropriate height and places
a landscape of a pair of atavians on the bow of a ship upon it.

"Wow!" Araig exclaims.

Elyra steps back to view her work, nods once and turns to face everyone gathered with a
smile.

Elyra smiles and says in a calm, confident voice, "Welcome, everyone! I am very glad to
see you all here today."

Araig claps his hands together merrily.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "We have gathered to enjoy some art as I hopefully
graduate from the Painting Program in the Virtuosi."

Xik gives up a round of applause.

The corners of Elyra's mouth turn up as she grins mischievously.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "I have five pieces to display today, and I will
explain a little bit about them as I do. Questions and comments are welcome as I talk
about each piece, or at the end. Any time, really. I enjoy discussing art!"

Elyra's eyes sparkle with amusement.

Araig nods his head at Elyra.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "Hopefully you will enjoy an example of what I have
learned from our amazing, talented teachers as I progressed in the Virtuosi."

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "Let's begin!"

Ilira has entered the area.

Elyra claps her hands together merrily.

Ilira arrives from the west.

Krypton takes a brief smell of a garden teacup of chocolate and caramel quills.

Ilira daintily pinches the material of her skirt between the thumb and index fingers of
both hands, playfully lifting the hem above her ankles and dipping into an elegantly
graceful curtsey, the swish of fabric accompanying the delicate movement.

Mokoshie arrives from the west.

Elyra greets Ilira with a sincere smile.

Ilira smiles and says in a warm, musical voice, "Apologies for my tardiness."

Ilira embraces Elyra with great ardour.

Araig pats Ilira in a friendly manner.

Ilira leans forward and places a gentle kiss on Elyra's forehead.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "No problem!"

Ilira says to Elyra in a warm, musical voice, "Congratulations dearest."

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "406164 is the first painting. It is an early self
portrait of myself."

This simple easel is of tripod design, with adjustable legs that can be folded for
portability or tabletop use, in addition to providing a sturdy workspace for the standing
or seated artist. It is crafted of oak stained dark brown, nearly black, enabling its use
for displaying painted canvases as well as works-in-progress. Upon it is displayed a
painting entitled Self Portrait. The small canvas is covered with simple lines that form
the head and face of a mhun woman. Although her face is turned slightly to the left, her
eyes stare straight ahead. The borders of her eyes consist of thick, slanted, black lines
that draw attention toward the charcoal black irises. The profile of the mhun's face and
the rest of her features are painted with lines in a deep, russet red colour. A sharp
curve suggests a small, thin nose and a few splashes of the dark red seem to be a thin
mouth quirked up into a smile. The woman's face is a pale bone-white, with a washed out
grey adding stark shadows near her eyes, cheekbones and nose. The shadows give her a thin
and angular appearance. In the same colour as the dark black eyes, thick streaks of hair
fall in straight lines down past her chin and out of view. Amid the hair in the bottom
right corner of the painting is the name, "Elyra" written in an elegant, white script.
It weighs about 13 pounds.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "I drew inspiration for the colours from the Blade
I held as a Blademaster at the time and I felt like the colour choices reflected who I was
and what was important to me. The style is rather simplistic, and I love how it turned out.
"

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "I enjoy how a few lines can draw together the
image of a face so easily, as our eyes always seem to pick out a face naturally in
whatever we can. The challenge is not to complicate it too much."

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "As I grow I know I will change and maybe not look
exactly the same, but I like having an image of myself as a painting student to look back
on."

Aereidhna smiles softly.

Elyra smiles impishly and says in a calm, confident voice, "Any questions or comments so
far?"

Idissa raises her hand in the air.

Mazel says in a light, airy voice, "For those of you unfamiliar with the Virtuosi easels,
just PROBE it to see the painting."

Elyra smiles and says in a calm, confident voice, "Thank you, Mazel."

Aerilaen arrives from the west.

Elyra tilts her head curiously at Idissa.

Idissa says in a delicate, shy voice, "Why did you choose painting?"
-
Mokoshie waves about a simple, lightweight morning star energetically.

Mokoshie bows respectfully to Aereidhna.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "I love the way you can express yourself with a few
splashes of colour, and make somebody feel the feeling you felt while painting. It's like
magic!"

Elyra's mouth turns up as her face breaks into a smile.

Idissa's mouth turns up as her face breaks into a smile.

Mazel raises his hand in the air.

Elyra tilts her head curiously at Mazel.

Laedha rubs her hands together greedily.

Mazel says in a light, airy voice, "Why did you choose a line painting, instead of a more
realistic style?"

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "I thought it would be an interesting challenge
first off, and also I think the way I see myself isn't really harshly realistic. I thought
a more stylized painting would capture some of my personal emotions."

Aereidhna raises her hand in the air.

Elyra nods her head at Aereidhna.

Aereidhna asks with a lyrical southern accent, "What were the most evocative emotions for
you when you were painting it?"

Aereidhna says with a lyrical southern accent, "You don't have to answer if that's too
personal."

Aereidhna smiles softly at Elyra.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "At the time I was very passionately connected to
my Blade. I felt I had to express it somehow in a picture of even my own face, to really
put my soul onto the canvas."

Elyra's expression softens as she smiles shyly.

Aereidhna's face lights up with joy as she beams at Elyra.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "So the colour choices carried that through."

Aereidhna says with a lyrical southern accent, "It comes across beautifully."

Elyra smiles and says in a calm, confident voice, "Okay, next!"
-
Ilira's eyes twinkle enchantingly at Elyra.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "Here we have 402577, my imagining of the famed
Blademaster Lucaine Pyramides."

Elyra gestures to the painting.

This simple easel is of tripod design, with adjustable legs that can be folded for
portability or tabletop use, in addition to providing a sturdy workspace for the standing
or seated artist. It is crafted of oak stained dark brown, nearly black, enabling its use
for displaying painted canvases as well as works-in-progress. Upon it is displayed a
painting entitled Luciane Pyramides. The watercolour painting shows a man standing braced
for battle on an indistinct grassy field. His face is set into a stern expression and his
dark hazel eyes seem to flash with the white highlights in them. His skin is a lightly
bronzed brown with coppery shadows. The man has a thin, almost gaunt face with a straight
nose, a strong, square chin and lips that are pressed together with determination. His
messy and disheveled hair is a collection of short, wispy coal black brushstrokes piled
onto his head. A burnished red scabbard composed of thin lines is strapped at the man's
side with a thick brown belt. His right hand reaches for the dark grey hilt of his sword,
fingers stretched at the ready. The left arm is held up, hand in front of him. His sturdy
legs are bent slightly, with his faded black boots sinking into the wisps of olive green
grass below him. Little curves and curls of pale grey accented with lines of black
represent the plain suit of ring mail the man is wearing. The sleeves of a dark shirt and
leggings in a dusky beige can be glimpsed underneath the armour. Scrawled under his boots
is the name, "Lucaine Pyramides", written in an elegant black script.
It weighs about 13 pounds.

Araig leans closer to the easel.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "This was a very fun painting, as I let my
imagination run wild around the idea of what kind of person he was."

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "I read a lot of history in search of somebody who
could inspire a painting, and the amazing tale of Lucaine Pyramides life and his beautiful
poetry touched me deeply."

Elyra nods her head emphatically.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "After reading as much as I could, I tried to
picture what he might have appeared as on my own and attempted to bring his life out in a
slightly more realistic style, with a sort of ethereal feel thanks to the watercolour
choice."

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "I hope you may feel like we're able to look
through time a bit and get a glimpse of what this impressive man may have been like. If
you have any questions regarding this one I'd be happy to hear them."

The rich, sensual scent of leather surrounds Ahmet, intermingling seamlessly with smoky
notes of cut cedar to produce a distinct, primal bouquet.

Rilinstra arrives from the west.

Laedha raises her hand in the air.

Elyra nods her head at Laedha.

Laedha says in a silvery voice, "What did you learn about his appearance from what you
read?"

Zbaco has entered the area.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "His eye and hair colour. As well as where he came
from."

Raza raises her hand in the air.

Elyra tilts her head curiously at Raza.

Zbaco arrives from the west.

Raza says to Elyra in a delicate voice, "What drove you to do this piece?"

Aerilaen leaves to the west.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "Reading through heaps of history, his beautiful
poetry shines like a gem amidst all the recollections."

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "I could not help but be attracted to the idea of
bringing him to life."

Araig raises his hand in the air.

Elyra nods her head at Araig.

You watch Rilinstra quickly devour a delicate cucumber sandwich on whole wheat.

Araig says to Elyra with a Vashnarian accent, "After learning of this historical figure,
did your own understanding of yourself change at all?"

Rekken has been slain by the might of a mutated horkvali inmate.

Ilira picks up a delicate cucumber sandwich on whole wheat.

You watch Idissa quickly devour a delicate cucumber sandwich on whole wheat.

Elyra smiles and says in a calm, confident voice, "At the time I was a Blademaster, and I
felt great honour to be coming from something similar as him."

You watch Ilira quickly devour a delicate cucumber sandwich on whole wheat.

Ilira picks up a glass of fizzy lemonade and black tea.
-
Ilira takes a long sip from a glass of fizzy lemonade and black tea, her expression
neutral but her eyes seeming to smile.

Araig nods his head at Elyra.

The corners of Mazel's mouth turn up as he grins mischievously.

Rane says in a deeply calm voice, "Interesting, a sailor, poet warrior! I'll have to ask
you more about this person later."

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "I like to imagine how somebody would paint me, if
they heard about me."

Elyra grins and nods at Rane.

Ilira takes a long sip from a glass of fizzy lemonade and black tea, her expression
neutral but her eyes seeming to smile.

Ilira finishes off a glass of fizzy lemonade and black tea.

Laedha flashes Elyra a joyous smile.

Elyra says to Rane in a calm, confident voice, "There is a statue of him to see, too. I
tried to imagine him on my own before I saw the statue, though."

Elyra smiles impishly and says in a calm, confident voice, "406780 is an example of a
landscape, which were always a little more tough for me. Capturing the feel of a place is
quite different than capturing the look and personality of a person in a portrait piece."

You watch Rilinstra eat half a dozen chocolate-covered caramel quills from a garden teacup

This simple easel is of tripod design, with adjustable legs that can be folded for
portability or tabletop use, in addition to providing a sturdy workspace for the standing
or seated artist. It is crafted of oak stained dark brown, nearly black, enabling its use
for displaying painted canvases as well as works-in-progress. Upon it is displayed a
painting entitled Orchard. This oil painting depicts two lines of organized trees in an
orchard, with a line of trees on either side that starts up close and continues far into
the distance. The leaves upon the thin branches on the tops form a little arch over the
clear path down the centre and are deep emerald, with flashes of pale green highlights.
Nestled comfortably among the leaves are a few diminutive, dark purple orbs that comprise
the ripe plums hanging in every tree. A splash of sapphire sky can be seen over the tops
of the leaves, which are supported by thin, spindly trunks in dark burgundy. An old and
rickety sepia-coloured ladder leans against a trunk to the right, disappearing into the
foliage at the top and sunk into the rich green grass that carpets the orchard at the
bottom. A maiden is climbing the ladder, her pale arm outstretched for the next step. She
wears a simple ivory shift with her silver hair falling in waves down her back and below
her is a little blackbird perched in the grass, gazing up at the maiden.
It weighs about 13 pounds.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "The orchard in this painting is not a real place,
and the girl is not a real person. Yet, I spent so long imagining this image that I feel
as if they existed in some place for me. I wanted the viewer to feel this as well."

Elyra shrugs helplessly.

Rilinstra sniffs a garden teacup of chocolate and caramel quills, trying to decipher just
what that smell is.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "That is always my goal with a painting. To make
you have a similar emotion to what I felt creating it."

Elyra nods her head emphatically.

Raza beams broadly at Elyra.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "I enjoy the colour choices in this one. Colour
turned out to be my favourite part of painting."

Elyra smiles and says in a calm, confident voice, "Questions? Comments?"

Nemesian Durzaan Darkmist, Trial-Elect of Antagony has broken Cen's spine with a
backbreaker, slaying him.

Araig raises his hand in the air.

Elyra tilts her head curiously at Araig.

Ilira picks up a garden teacup of chocolate and caramel quills.

Araig says with a Vashnarian accent, "Is that why you chose oil? The colours?"

Rane says in a deeply calm voice, "Who is the maiden?"

Ilira takes a sip of Imperial Green tea, savouring the smooth, herbal flavour.

Ilira takes a sip of Imperial Green tea, savouring the smooth, herbal flavour.

Ilira takes a final sip of Imperial Green tea, savouring the smooth, herbal flavour.

Ilira mutters discontentedly.

Ilira puts a cup of Imperial Green tea into a cormorant-feathered knapsack.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "The maiden is a girl from my dreams, maybe. Just
an idea of a person."
-
Elyra's eyes sparkle with amusement.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "And aye, oil is amazing for sharp colour."

Kenara raises her hand in the air.

Elyra nods her head at Kenara.

You watch Ilira eat half a dozen chocolate-covered caramel quills from a garden teacup.

Idissa says in a delicate, shy voice, "How did you achieve the sort of mystical etheria of
the image?"

Idissa says in a delicate, shy voice, "Was there a specific technique?"

Chimble picks up a delicate cucumber sandwich on whole wheat.

You watch Chimble quickly devour a delicate cucumber sandwich on whole wheat.

Chimble picks up a delicate cucumber sandwich on whole wheat.

You watch Chimble quickly devour a delicate cucumber sandwich on whole wheat.

Elyra smiles and says in a calm, confident voice, "The brushstrokes you use make a
difference. Bold ones make bright things that pop out, wispy and more thoughtful ones give
a whole different feel."

Kenara says to Elyra in a soft, drawling voice, "When choosing a landscape, what made you
choose plum trees? Do they have some significance to you personally?"

Elyra laughingly says in a calm, confident voice, "I was spending a lot of time sitting in
an orchard of plum and pear."

Kenara's mouth turns up as her face breaks into a smile.

Ilira's eyes sparkle with amusement.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "Their trees feel like home to me."

Kenara nods her head at Elyra.

The vague outline of a doorway begins to coalesce in the air before you.

A flickering rift comes into existence in mid air, a bright light emanating from within.

"Ummmm," Ilira says uncertainly.

Ilira stares implacably at a flickering rift.

Elyra hums a happy tune.

Araig leaves to the west.

Araig arrives from the west.

Laedha leaves to the south.

Laedha arrives from the south.

A well-lit side gallery (indoors).
A runic totem is planted solidly in the ground. A painting of two snow leopards hangs upon
a wall. A blue roan ambles about here, tail swishing. A garron mare paws at the ground,
impatient to be underway. There are 4 corpses of a sleek dirangi here. There are 2 corpses
of a dirangi cub here. The corpse of a female dirangi lies here, having failed to protect
her young.
You see exits leading east and west.

A glass-roofed garden courtyard (indoors).
A runic totem is planted solidly in the ground. There are 4 runic knights here. There are
18 delicate cucumber sandwiches on whole wheat here. There are 46 grilled portobello
sandwiches here. There are 33 plates of kawhe-infused rapier biscotti here. There are 31
garden teacup of chocolate and caramel quills here. There are 8 glasses of sparkling
jasmine tea here. There are 8 glasses of fizzy lemonade and black tea here. There are 5
tall mugs of iced red tea with muddled blueberries here. There are 9 elegant flutes of
iced white tea with orange peel here. Exuding a most fearful atmosphere, a terrifying
chimera ominously skulks about here. A wooden easel stands here, displaying a portrait of
a mhun woman. A wooden easel stands here, displaying a portrait of a man braced for battle.
A wooden easel stands here, displaying a landscape of rows of plum trees. A wooden easel
stands here, displaying a still life of a teacup decorated with a rose. A wooden easel
stands here, displaying a landscape of a pair of atavians on the bow of a ship. A grizzled
old rat lies here, dead as can be. There are 2 corpses of a rat here. There are 2
flickering rift here. Initiate of Earth, Mokoshie Xanatov-Amidamaru is here. She wields a
simple, lightweight morning star in her left hand and a small, thin shortsword in her
right. Novelist Jinos Inficio-Tiercel is here. His features are obscured by a two-sided
black and white mask. He wields a plain parchment scroll in his left hand and a quill
fashioned from a lunalia feather in his right. The Silver Dragon Ahmet's imposing form
looms. Burnished Sentry Vika is riding on a dreadful chimera. She wields a Scimitar of
Eagles in each hand. Squire Aereidhna Tiercel, the Firebrand is here. She wields a
rudimentary deep sea fishing pole in both hands. Discurean Pathwalker Idissa Rian-
Moonshadow is here. She wields a sooty, iron lash in her left hand and a sooty steel
buckler in her right. Sapling Raza, of the Blackberry Bush is here. Rane Zviera is here.
Carver Aivilyn Lanthe-Oj'anen is here. She wields a rich dual-chocolate lava cake in her
left hand. Alieze Etesiae is here. Instrumentalist Ilira Starling-Traseran is here. She
wields an elemental staff in her right hand. Keeper of Lore, Zbaco Silvertongue is here.
He wields a Shield of Absorption in his left hand. Squire Salisa Desmijr, Discurean Critic
is here. Her face is partially concealed beneath the raised hood of an ebony cloak strewn
with star maps. She wields a Shield of Absorption in her left hand and deSangre's spite in
her right. Fabricator Rhalts Cil'Raine, Magi-Khral Sea Monkster is here. His face is
partially concealed beneath the raised hood of a wolf-skin and nacre velvet cloak. He
wields a twisted oaken staff in both hands. Squire Mazel Traseran, Vashnarian Gadfly is
here. Adventurous Impressionist Elyra Vorondil is here. Laedha Zviera, Virtuosi Cellist is
here. She wields an inlaid rosewood mandolin in her left hand. Krypton Urth'Auren, King of
Arms is here. He wields a wyvern-etched druidic quarterstaff in both hands. Forestwalker
Herutar is here. He wields a twisted oaken staff in both hands. Imperor Navarr Tiercel,
Impressionist is here. His face is partially concealed beneath the raised hood of a wolf-
skin and nacre velvet cloak. Instrumentalist Chimble is here. Araig Traseran, Southern
Vashnarian Artist is here. He wields a delicate cucumber sandwich on whole wheat in his
left hand and a grilled portobello sandwich in his right. Tumbler Kenara is seated here.
She wields an elemental staff in her right hand.
You see exits leading north, east, south, and west.
Myla, of Cyrene says, "I snuck in!"

Chimble blinks.

Rilinstra grins mischievously at Myla.

Ilira's eyes sparkle with amusement at Myla.

Zbaco's eyes sparkle with amusement at Myla.

Elyra flashes Myla a joyous smile.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "Welcome."

Ilira flashes Myla a joyous smile.
-
Alieze pats Myla in a friendly manner.

Myla's mouth turns up as her face breaks into a smile.

Mazel coughs softly.

Mazel urges Elyra onwards.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "In a different direction, 418361 is a simple still
life. Not something I had a lot of practice painting, which made it a fun challenge."

Durzaan falls in a blaze of silver to Legionnaire Ankhareoutef, the Undying's sword,
Eternal Storms.

This simple easel is of tripod design, with adjustable legs that can be folded for
portability or tabletop use, in addition to providing a sturdy workspace for the standing
or seated artist. It is crafted of oak stained dark brown, nearly black, enabling its use
for displaying painted canvases as well as works-in-progress. Upon it is displayed a
painting entitled Tea. This oil painting is of a teacup viewed from an angle slightly
above, with the full, round body of the cup coloured a bright ivory and a thin black
border defining its plump shape. A sharp shadow on the left cuts across in a broad curve
to throw half the cup and the base supporting it into darkness, making the colour there
dusky and grey. A small rose is painted on the cup in delicate lines with its petals
spread out comfortably. It blossoms along the side of the cup in pale pink edged with deep
red, with half the flower caught in the shadow that leeches the colour and leaves the
petals there a washed out shade of what they are in the light. A pale, slender handle
extends to the right side, and on the top of the cup a thick line of tarnished gold gilt
circles the rim and catches the light in a spot of bright white. A rich, dark burgundy tea
highlighted with hazel fills the cup nearly to the top. Above the tea, steam is depicted
with delicate and twisting lines of silver reaching up and turning over themselves. The
full cup rests upon a simple, off-white saucer, which is trimmed in gold around its border.
The teacup and saucer cast a charcoal shadow upon the granite coloured table below, which
is made up of broad brushstrokes going in all directions. In the bottom right corner of
the painting, the letters EV have been written in a delicate black script.
It weighs about 13 pounds.

Krypton leaves to the west, a wyvern reflected in his eyes.
Krypton enters from the west, a wyvern reflected in his eyes.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "Here I wanted to make a viewer feel as if they
could reach out and pick up the image. Yet, while still realistic, I think in this later
painting you can really see my personal style that started coming through as I developed
my painting."

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "It was interesting to me how the simplicity of the
image did not detract from the effort of painting it. In fact, paintings with more going
on do not require you to focus so much on the little details."

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "If there are any questions regarding this piece I
would be happy to take them."

Ilira's lashes flutter slightly as her eyes twinkle enchantingly.

Mazel raises his hand in the air.

Elyra nods her head at Mazel.

Mazel says in a light, airy voice, "Why a teacup?"

Ilira nods her head, the feathery curls framing her face bouncing lightly against her rosy
cheeks with the movement.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "I like to paint things that mean something to me.
That I see often, and when I see them they bring me joy. I think my paintings come out
more clear and with more love in this way."

Elyra whispers in a calm, confident voice, "I drink a lot of tea. I love their beautiful
cups."

Ilira grins mischievously at Elyra.

The corners of Mazel's mouth turn up as he grins mischievously.

Nemesian Durzaan Darkmist, Trial-Elect of Antagony has battered Farrah to death.

Herutar grins mischievously at Kenara.

Ilira picks up a delicate cucumber sandwich on whole wheat.
-
Ilira picks up a delicate cucumber sandwich on whole wheat.

You watch Ilira quickly devour a delicate cucumber sandwich on whole wheat.

You watch Ilira quickly devour a delicate cucumber sandwich on whole wheat.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "Probably this final one, 418993, is my favourite
painting. It is of an actual scene I have viewed on occasion, which I attempted to bring
out in paint."

This simple easel is of tripod design, with adjustable legs that can be folded for
portability or tabletop use, in addition to providing a sturdy workspace for the standing
or seated artist. It is crafted of oak stained dark brown, nearly black, enabling its use
for displaying painted canvases as well as works-in-progress. Upon it is displayed a
painting entitled Sailing. This watercolour painting displays a pair of atavians standing
at the bow of a ship, facing away into the sea before them so that only the back of their
heads and wings may be viewed. The broad shouldered atavian on the left stands much taller
than the figure on the right. Wispy brushstrokes comprise the wings folded neatly at their
backs, obscuring most of their bodies. The larger atavian on the left possesses massive
wings in shades of white and is topped with short and messy jet black hair. The smaller
figure has her own dark hair neatly braided and trailing down her back between her raven
colored wings. A thick, sturdy arm from the left and a slender, graceful arm from the
right meet in the middle between the two, with fingers laced together. They both stand
firmly upon planks that are represented by rough strokes in washed out shades of hazel and
chestnut brown. The edge of the ship around the pair rises in a short barrier as the bow
of the ship stretches out and meets at a point a little before the two figures. A handful
of ropes of varying thickness streak out as black lines above their heads that come from
behind them and meet in front of them. Below a dark horizon line a third of the way down
from top of the painting is an ocean glimpsed over the ship in cool blue-gray, with small
splashes of white seafoam spray and highlights of pale gray along the waves. Up above on
the ocean is a collection of silver smudges across a background of navy blue, making up
the clouded sky.
It weighs about 13 pounds.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "Compared to the previous painting, this has a lot
more going on. It requires a different focus and gives a completely different vibe as a
finished product."

The rich, sensual scent of leather surrounds Ahmet, intermingling seamlessly with smoky
notes of cut cedar to produce a distinct, primal bouquet.

Keorin arrives from the west.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "I think watercolours are my favourite to paint
with. I like how you can still get a realistic look along with a sort of washed out dreamy
feel. I hope I captured that in this piece."

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "This is the last one! If there are any questions
or comments about this painting or any of the others, please go ahead and voice them. I
really enjoy discussing art, almost as much as I enjoy creating it."

Mazel raises his hand in the air.

Elyra nods her head at Mazel.

Mazel says in a light, airy voice, "I'd like to hear a bit about your inspiration for this
piece."

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "As I said, I like to paint things that mean
something to me."

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "I was attempting to bring to life in paint a scene
from my childhood, which means more than anything to me. That is why this piece is the
closest to my heart."

Elyra coughs softly.

Elyra blushes furiously.

Navarr raises his hand in the air.

Elyra nods her head at Navarr.

Laedha flashes Elyra a joyous smile.

Myla has entered the area.

Sabetha, riding a lean grizzly bear, arrives from the west.

Rane says in a deeply calm voice, "Shall we start the bidding?"

Rane snickers softly to himself.

Elyra grins mischievously at Rane.

Rhalts's mouth turns up as his face breaks into a smile.

Ilira's eyes sparkle with amusement.

Idissa picks up a grilled portobello sandwich.

Sabetha inches bashfully over to Keorin and nuzzles her tenderly.

Idissa bites into the sandwich with a crunch. She continues with large bites until the
sandwich is gone.

Elyra laughingly says in a calm, confident voice, "My art is free for all to enjoy."

Sabetha, riding a lean grizzly bear, leaves to the west.

Araig raises his hand in the air.

Idissa takes a sip of a glass of sparkling jasmine tea, the intense fragrance wafting
about her.

Navarr says in a deep, resonant voice, "You've mentioned the paints, the colours, the
brushstrokes you used, the research you did, the history of your pieces....but what about
the underlying material onto which you painted? The canvas...parchments....how they're
woven and prepared, their intrinsic qualities and colours?"

Discurean Ranger, Ahmet Ter'sez's breath crackles and sparks as he says, "My starting bid,
two years of Rane doing all your chores and housework."

Mazel tilts his head and listens intently to Elyra.

Laedha's lips quirk into an amused half-smile, one eyebrow raised.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "I like to paint on a simple canvas. And I usually
choose my colours as I am painting. I like to wait until inspiration hits me, and then I
will throw everything at a canvas, and then start refining and redoing it until it seems
like a finished product. A simple canvas is nice to paint upon, as it offers an eager
surface."

Keorin takes a drink from a black-walnut vial.

Raza grins mischievously at Elyra.

Araig raises his hand in the air.

Elyra tilts her head curiously at Araig.

Navarr's mouth turns up as his face breaks into a smile.

Araig says with a Vashnarian accent, "In general, does the overall feeling that your want
your paintings to evoke, either emotionally or in artistic style, exist in your mind ahead
of time, or does it evolve naturally over several drafts? Do you change styles and colours
part way through, deciding on a better path as you see how it is coming out?"

Raza raises an eyebrow questioningly.

Raza raises her hand in the air.

Elyra says in a calm, confident voice, "I can not paint something until I feel how it
should feel. I will change everything and do my best to bring that feeling out however I
can once I start working. I am willing to redo everything and start from scratch if what I
get does not make me feel what I want."

Elyra nods her head at Raza.

Raza says to Elyra in a delicate voice, "Much like our minds can be such a simple canvas
if we allow the beauty around us to be seen eh?"

The body of Squire Aereidhna Tiercel, the Firebrand appears in a flash and her soul
descends to fill it, causing the previously expressionless face to fill with emotion.

Aereidhna takes a drink from a lapis lazuli vial.

Elyra grins and nods.

Elyra flashes Aereidhna a joyous smile.

Raza says to Elyra in a delicate voice, "I am so proud of you."

Aereidhna gives Elyra a compassionate hug.

Aereidhna lowers her head respectfully.

Aereidhna leaves to the north.

Elyra blushes furiously.

Mazel clears his throat in an attempt to gain everyone's attention.

Elyra tilts her head and listens intently to Mazel.

Rane tilts his head and listens intently to Mazel.

Raza tilts her head and listens intently to Mazel.

Mazel says in a light, airy voice, "I would like to take this opportunity to say a few
words as the event winds down here."

Araig takes a healthy swig from a tall mug of iced red tea with muddled blueberries,
sucking his teeth slightly afterwards.

A thick droplet of blood red sauce falls across Araig's hand as he pulls a medallion of
scorpion steak from a skewer, popping it into his mouth with an audible crunch.

Mazel says in a light, airy voice, "Elyra joined my program straight after joining the
House, and has grown immensely as an artist."

Elyra's expression softens as she smiles shyly.

Mazel says in a light, airy voice, "When she first started, we would spend DAYS discussing
her works, refining them."

Mazel says in a light, airy voice, "Towards the end, our conversations could barely be
called that. She would catch potential improvements even before I could."

Mazel says in a light, airy voice, "She is also quite possibly the most enthusiastic
artist I have ever seen come through the Virtuosi. She attacked every assignment with a
fervor few can match."

Mazel says in a light, airy voice, "The only reason it took her as long to graduate as it
did was her drive to make every painting PERFECT."

The corners of Elyra's mouth turn up as she grins mischievously.

Laedha smiles softly.

Raza grins mischievously at Elyra.

Smirking confidently, Raza and Elyra casually bump fists.

Mazel says in a light, airy voice, "Which is something I feel all artists should strive
for. Her blending of emotion and technique is unmatched."

Mazel says in a light, airy voice, "For that reason, it is my honour to present this ring
to Elyra, as a mark of her accomplishments."

Mazel proudly shows off a black gold graduation ring of artistic acclaim:
Moulded with careful hands and formed with the utmost detail, this ring encompasses the
wearer's abilities in their personal form of artistry. Made from gold which is the colour
of ebony, the inside of the band is smooth and flat to fit upon the finger with comfort.
The top is slightly domed, crowned with a large, circular azurite. The translucent, azure
round cut gemstone sparkles with a remarkable clarity. The available light light creates a
luminous glow yet creating shadows for each program within the Virtuosi. Accenting the
azurite, a slight dusting of diamond dust rests along the band to add to the lustrous
gleam.
Engraved on it are the words:

Elyra Vorondil

Painting Path

5 Daedalan 755

Chimble congratulates Elyra with some wild clapping.

Raza claps her hands together merrily.

Araig gives up a round of applause.

Mazel gives a black gold graduation ring of artistic acclaim to Elyra.

Kenara gives Elyra a wild cheer!

Aivilyn claps her hands together merrily.

Elyra blushes furiously.

Navarr applauds Elyra heartily.

You give Elyra a wild cheer!

Herutar gives up a round of applause.

Jinos cheers wildly!

Rhalts cheers wildly!

A look of excitement crosses over Araig's face as he shouts, "Woohoo!"

Araig gives Elyra a compassionate hug.

Laedha beams broadly at Elyra.

Ilira beams brightly, her eyes twinkling with happiness.

Ilira embraces Elyra with great ardour.

Idissa's mouth turns up as her face breaks into a smile.

Ilira leans forward and places a gentle kiss on Elyra's forehead.

Raza gives Elyra a compassionate hug.

Idissa applauds Elyra heartily.

Mazel says in a light, airy voice, "And it is my further honour to welcome her to the
ranks of a full Virtuosi, and grant her the right to wear the title of Master Painter."

Rane smiles quietly with pride and respect.

Mokoshie beams broadly at Elyra.

Keorin claps her hands together merrily.

Kenara finishes off a tall mug of iced red tea with muddled blueberries.

"Woot!" Aivilyn shouts excitedly.

Laedha gives Elyra a wild cheer!

Idissa claps her hands together merrily.

Ilira says to Elyra in a warm, musical voice, "Well done Sweetie! Your paintings were
absolutely bedazzling, I cannot wait to see more of your work in the future!"

Ilira face lights up with a warm, sunny smile, twin dimples forming at the apexes of both
cheeks as her eyes twinkle warmly.

Araig claps his hands together merrily.

Laedha entwines the fingers of one hand with your fingers, lacing them together.

Chimble congratulates Elyra with some wild clapping.

Kenara puts an empty thick-walled mug into a soft leather pack.

Ilira daintily pinches the material of her skirt between the thumb and index fingers of
both hands, playfully lifting the hem above her ankles and dipping into an elegantly
graceful curtsey, the swish of fabric accompanying the delicate movement.

Elyra smiles and says in a calm, confident voice, "Thank you, Mazel."

Mokoshie leaves, following Ilira to the west.

You lean forward and plant a kiss on Elyra's cheek.

Mazel leans forward and places a gentle kiss on Elyra's forehead.

Elyra blushes furiously.

Salisa smiles softly.

Navarr says in a deep, resonant voice, "Congratulations, Elyra."

Elyra smiles and says in a calm, confident voice, "Thank you again for coming, everyone. I
really appreciate each one of you being here."

Araig exclaims to Elyra with a Vashnarian accent, "Congratulations!!"

Mazel says in a light, airy voice, "That's my piece. You are all welcome to stay and enjoy
the paintings and food, and further pick her brains to your hearts' content."