The Grand Avian Gala

I believe that some of this has already been posted in other threads, so here is the whole thing. Thanks to @Misea, @Tirah, @Xeii and of course @Isune for making this possible, as well as to everyone who turned up for it.

Descriptions:

Room:
Beneath a crystal-and-gold pergola hung with silks.
A fresh breeze is blowing through the area. Pillars wrought of thick, limpid crystal uphold an
elegant golden pergola here, which lords over the cloud gardens of the Grand Aerie with majestic 
grandeur. Etched into the gold capital of the columns, avian motifs are mute and swan-like as they 
soar around the column in search of new horizons. Skyblooms climb about these pillars with their 
white-and-lavender blossoms, releasing a sweet-scented aroma from their petals as they wind about 
the pergola's aureate structure. Silken banners have been hung from its gleaming rafters, diaphanous 
and lovely as they billow at the slightest breeze. These gossamer pennants each bear the colours and 
insignia of an esteemed Master Artist House of Hallifax, complete with gemstone tassels that chime 
pleasantly when caught in motion. The sweeping expanse of the pergola allows for a luxury of space, 
its cool shade making it perfect for hosting a variety of activities, such as an impromptu concert 
or a picnic. The entirety of this stunning pergola rests upon a thick cushion of cloud, pearly-white 
in its disarming softness. A delicate bridge arches to meet it, crystalline and sparkling as it 
rises over the sun-kissed clouds. Engraved with soaring swans, a crystalline table stands here, 
various platters, bowls, and trays stacked high upon it.

People:
look Irillia
Tall and slender in build, she is a feathered cloud trill harmonious demigoddess, with the long,
delicate bones and streamlined frame of one sculpted to soar through the skies. A quality of airy 
grace, unconscious yet harmonious, suffuses her appearance, from the form and flow of her hands to 
the lines of her figure and the patrician dignity of her bearing. Wide, immaculately groomed wings 
sweep majestically outward from between her shoulder blades, their smooth, glossy plumage a gentle 
shade of cloud-grey. Echoing the colour of her wings, a downy cap of spun-silver feathers crowns her 
head, with lustrous wisps curling across her high forehead and over her ears. Her skin is 
surpassingly fair, sheathing her aquiline features in an almost moonlit pallor. In contrast, her 
wide-set eyes are a cloudless, crystalline sky-blue, made all the brighter by the silvery lashes 
encircling them and feathery eyebrows arched above them like wings spread in flight.
Downy, dove-grey feathers crown her head, overlaid to provide an understated, simple cap of plumage.
Each feather is small and rounded, the pinions remaining still pliant, soft and wavy so as to nearly 
create the illusion of neatly-kept hair.
She is wearing:
the Medallion of Beauty floating in the air of its own power just above her heart.
a wedding ring of intertwined gold and platinum on her left ring finger.
a teardrop pendulum of starlit quartz hanging at her throat from its cord of skysilver strands.
a crystalline half-mask embellished with feathers adorning her features with lambent, filigreed
crystal.
the Doctoral Cord of the Anomaly wrapped about her slender wrist.
elbow-length black lace gloves
a pellucid wreath of cygnine plumes poised along her temples, the feathers glittering in even the
faintest light.
a regal bird-of-paradise ball gown
a regal purple cape
dazzling diamond slippers
a lavish, jewel-hued bird-of-paradise hat.

look Misea
Standing with a graceful dancer's poise to her lithe and leggy form, she is an ordinary human. She
stands at an above average height for a human woman, lean muscle gracing her pals ivory-skinned and 
femininely-curved frame. Hair as dark as a raven's wing is swept up into an artful coif, soft curls 
braided and arranged around the crown of her head. Several of the shimmering blue-black lengths have 
been gently curled and left to frame a refined oval face, delicate bone structure complimenting her 
gently rounded nose and full coral-tinted lips. Standing at odds to each other, her large almond-
shaped eyes have a stark heterochromia in their coloring. The left iris is a vibrant and warm honey 
amber hue while the right iris is an icy blue-grey, both shaded with a thick fringe of black lashes. 
She walks with the truefavour of Isune.
She is wearing:
a feathered silk mask of pearlescent dove-grey accents mismatched eyes, completing her dove-themed
ensemble
the Quintessential Mandala of Resplendent Harmony glows with a steady, prismatic beauty
elegant slippers of dove-grey silk and feathers tie with soft ribbons wrapping up her calves
a feathered, dove-grey gown of pearlescent silks and chiffon with a long, cloud-like avian train
a luminescent tiara of frozen feathers interwoven with her elaborately upswept curls.

look Maligorn
He is a ferocious loboshigaru vernal ascendant. From head to toe, he is somewhat shorter than an
average human. Combed to wavy perfection, pearl grey fur swathes over him in fine layers. Long, thin 
and jagged scars mar his face, curling down to his chest, showing pale pink skin underneath. Large, 
pointed ears tufted with white intermittently twitch as they perch atop his head, along with his 
opaque, silver eyes. A long snout lined with polished teeth ends in a small black nose. Two long 
canines poke out of his snout even with his mouth is closed, and they are each inset with a diamond, 
lending a prismatic wink to his smile. Though not particularly brawny, the loboshigaru's arms and 
legs are not wilted either, possessing a firm build, all ending in four large paws tipped with sharp,
silver claws. A long, bushy tail hangs low with melancholy, grey but for its blackened tip. He walks 
with the truefavour of Isune.
He is wearing:
an iridescent white fractal flower brooch
the Quintessential Mandala of Resplendent Harmony
a skysilver monocle with a rose quartz lens perched on his right eye
a collar necklace of burnished bronze and boreal sapphire
a resplendent amberlight blossom
a teardrop pendulum of starlit quartz wrapped over his left forearm in intricate knots
a kouseki crown of white gold carefully arranged over the top of his raised hood
robes of eventide worn in comfortable swathes of purple silk
a feather-brocaded satchel of cinereal grey silk slung over the shoulder.

look Curwa
This dwarf is clearly a young professional of modern sensibilities. Her shaved scalp is presently
adorned with a thin layer of dark stubble; her nose with a pair of hexagonal, steel-rimmed 
spectacles. Gray glint eyes gaily with mirth behind those glittering glasses, a dimpled smile 
quirking her lips below. Despite her unorthodox appearance, she is a stout dwarf and has the classic 
dwarven figure all the same: strong arms leading up to broad shoulders, wide hips and ultimately to 
a particularly large pair of feet. Despite this brawny build, she seems to be a nimble one, long 
thin fingers fidgeting and tapping at her side.
She is wearing:
elegantly heeled silvery leather sandals giving her several additional inches
an intaglio necklace depicting a thunderbird's hatching upon her breast
a ruffled dress of sunny yellow cotton fluttering with every movement
a birdlike mask adorned with a smattering of whimsically placed beryl.

look Tambador
He is a shaggy igasho demigod. standing just over 8 feet tall with lush shining silver fur stretched
over a dominant, well defined body. It seems to be sculpted from a living soft-grey marble with 
corded sinew of muscle crisscrossing every visible portion of his frame. His chest, shoulders, and 
back cut a swath wide enough to throw a room into shadows and brawny arms capable of easily 
controlling anything they grab, hang loosely at his side. His torso rides upon powerful legs capable 
of wading through any resistance met. Striking  amethyst eyes look out from a handsome face and eyes 
and mouth are creased by subtle lines from a frequent warm smile. A fine silver-grey stubble seems 
ever present along his cheeks while a thick silky mane of dark pewter hair falls down to his 
shoulders. He walks with the truefavour of Isune.
He is wearing:
a Multipronged Master Crown
a pair of shadow gray trousers
a fine shirt of deep red
a mechanical exoskeleton draped in tenebrous hues
a nebulous mantle of the esoteric mind
an extravagant platinum wedding band with filigree silver feathers.

look maligorn
He is a ferocious loboshigaru vernal ascendant. From head to toe, he is somewhat shorter than an
average human. Combed to wavy perfection, pearl grey fur swathes over him in fine layers. Long, thin 
and jagged scars mar his face, curling down to his chest, showing pale pink skin underneath. Large, 
pointed ears tufted with white intermittently twitch as they perch atop his head, along with his 
opaque, silver eyes. A long snout lined with polished teeth ends in a small black nose. Two long 
canines poke out of his snout even with his mouth is closed, and they are each inset with a diamond, 
lending a prismatic wink to his smile. Though not particularly brawny, the loboshigaru's arms and 
legs are not wilted either, possessing a firm build, all ending in four large paws tipped with sharp,
silver claws. A long, bushy tail hangs low with melancholy, grey but for its blackened tip. He walks 
with the truefavour of Isune.
He is wearing:
an iridescent white fractal flower brooch
the Quintessential Mandala of Resplendent Harmony
a skysilver monocle with a rose quartz lens perched on his right eye
a collar necklace of burnished bronze and boreal sapphire
a resplendent amberlight blossom
a teardrop pendulum of starlit quartz wrapped over his left forearm in intricate knots
a kouseki crown of white gold carefully arranged over the top of his raised hood
robes of eventide worn in comfortable swathes of purple silk
a feather-brocaded satchel of cinereal grey silk slung over the shoulder.

look Nelras
He is a feathered warbling trill dawncast demigod and is just above what could be considered average
height for a member of that race. Dark brown feathers rest atop an angular face from which gaze eyes 
the colour of midnight. His wings are kept neat, the lighter brown feathers that make them up always 
being well preened. His body is of a fairly scrawny build, a lack of muscle definition making his 
natural thinness even more pronounced. He walks with the truefavour of Isune.
He is wearing:
stained glass prayer beads of the Lady Aesthete
an avian promise ring of fire agate
polished, formal shoes of mahogany brown leather
a carved band of marble and gold
a teardrop pendulum of starlit quartz
an understated suit of pavonian hues
a dapper black cape traced with amber fractals.

Food:
look salad
Thin, petal-shaped slices of blushing guava fruit and white peach have
been assembled into a round, swirling pedestal. Encircled by a line of
raspberries, they sit upon the simple porcelain platter, a sweet sepal
for the painstakingly-carved watermelon centrepiece. Many of the
characteristically bold stripes have been chiselled away, leaving tiers
and tiers of almost lacy flesh and one unbroken, fragile layer that once
was the rind. The image upon the rosy melon is unmistakably that of a
swan in profile with its visible wing flaring up; its palest apple-green
plumage wraps a little around the melon as its darker tailfeathers sink
lower out of sight, making it look as if the avian has blossomed from
the watermelon flowers it cradles. The fruit flesh itself is practically
an ovoid tower of carved roses, seedless and succulent.
probe salad
Thin, petal-shaped slices of blushing guava fruit and white peach have
been assembled into a round, swirling pedestal. Encircled by a line of
raspberries, they sit upon the simple porcelain platter, a sweet sepal
for the painstakingly-carved watermelon centrepiece. Many of the
characteristically bold stripes have been chiselled away, leaving tiers
and tiers of almost lacy flesh and one unbroken, fragile layer that once
was the rind. The image upon the rosy melon is unmistakably that of a
swan in profile with its visible wing flaring up; its palest apple-green
plumage wraps a little around the melon as its darker tailfeathers sink
lower out of sight, making it look as if the avian has blossomed from
the watermelon flowers it cradles. The fruit flesh itself is practically
an ovoid tower of carved roses, seedless and succulent.
It has 1 months of usefulness left.
It weighs 10 ounce(s).
It bears the distinctive mark of Tirah Mzithrei, the Succor.
It has the following aliases: salad.
eat salad
You eat a rosy salad cradling a cygnine carving with gusto.
Making use of the dainty knife and fork that comes with the dish, you
slice away at the fragile rind swan before cutting a watermelon rose for
yourself. Your mouth is flooded with the dreamy taste of ripe
watermelon, all its juice included. The other fruits and their citrusy
variances you enjoy till you have had your fill, leaving the plate
transformed into a watery and fragrant palette of juices.

I have unfortunately misplaced the descriptions of Isune, Volucer and all of the birds - if anyone has these, I would be most grateful if they could post them.

Comments


  • Log:
    [Nelras arrives at the site of the Gala, musicians in tow.]

    Nelras bow respectfully to Irillia.

    Tribune of the Law, Misea says, "Yes, I am not sure an entirely bright pink swan would be quite as
    effective."

    Irillia curtseys gracefully before Nelras.

    Misea curtseys gracefully before Nelras.

    Irillia Shevat says, "Greetings, Marquis."

    Nelras says to Irillia, "My apologies for the delays, Marquessa. I hope that you have not been waiting
    here long."

    A classic trill musician produces his violin with a flourish and begins attending to his
    preparations, tuning up and applying resin to his bow.

    Irillia Shevat says to Nelras, "It is quite all right. I know well how such gatherings can encounter
    many unexpected delays and obstacles."

    Turning back to the musicians, Nelras says, "The majority of the gala shall likely
    take place here, although the grounds are open to all who attend. Will you be able to set yourselves 
    up while I see who else might wish to attend?"

    Inclining his head politely to Nelras, a classic trill musician flicks out his tails and takes a seat
    upon a performance stool, adjusting his trumpet as he begins tuning.

    (Hallifax): Nelras says, "The Grand Avian Gala shall be beginning shortly, if any who wish to attend
    would make their way to the Transcendental Aviary?"

    Inclining his head politely, a classic trill musician says, "Aye, Marquis, we can set up here."
    entourage

    Smiling, Nelras says, "Thank you."

    Nelras says to Irillia, "I shall be right back. Please, do help yourself to some refreshments if you
    wish."

    (Hallifax): Maligorn says, "Certainly."

    Gliding away from the gardens, you descend slowly and gently back to the city.
    Floating above Hallifax with a picturesque view.
    There are no obvious exits.

    Arriving at your destination, a round and fluffy wisp of cloud dissipates and deposits you carefully
    here atop an overlook.

    A crystalline overlook of the skies.
    Banks of clouds roil about here. A fresh breeze is blowing through the area. Floating above the
    floor, a round and fluffy wisp of cloud is ready for travel.
    You see a single exit leading down.

    Transcendental Aviary.
    A soothing chill permeates the area, bringing with it a rime of sparkling frost cast by a healing
    shrine of Jadice nearby. Banks of clouds roil about here. A crystalline bench rests here, seemingly 
    overgrown with twining vines bearing pearlescent honeysuckle blossoms. Arcing fountains suffuse this 
    well-tended garden, its flora marked by perfect symmetry. On her way to perform an audit of the 
    city's affairs, a comptroller is here. Surrounded by white lightning, a sapphire rose thunderbird 
    spreads his rainbow wings here, sapphire eyes glowing with a noble intellect. Chatoyant plumage 
    glittering in the available light, a dawn radiant hummingbird hovers here with frenetic energy.
    You see exits leading northeast, southeast, southwest, northwest, and up.

    Approaching from above, Nelras bows politely to Maligorn and says, "I am glad that
    you could come."

    Maligorn Shevat says, "Of course. I wouldn't miss this."

    A series of chiming notes, distinctly crystalline, ring out in the distance in a slow, descending
    scale.

    A crepuscular dream phoenix with musical wings of crystalline filaments trots in with head high,
    butting Nelras gently with her head.

    Nelras pets a crepuscular dream phoenix with musical wings of crystalline filaments ingratiatingly.
    With a content sigh, a crepuscular dream phoenix with musical wings of crystalline filaments leans
    up against Nelras, blinking drowsily.

    Maligorn Shevat laughingly says, "Oh, that's cute."

    Maligorn Shevat asks, "Shall I follow you?"

    Nelras says to Maligorn, "If you could, please. We shall wait a short while longer and then make our way
    into the Aerie's grounds."

    Maligorn begins to follow you.

    Maligorn nods his head emphatically.

    A sapphire rose thunderbird glides in a precise arc, causing the aether to spark and crackle with
    atmospheric instability.

    You say to Maligorn, "Alright, let us head up there. It does not look as if others are coming for
    the time being."

    Maligorn nods his head emphatically.

    A crystalline overlook of the skies.
    Banks of clouds roil about here. A fresh breeze is blowing through the area. Floating above the
    floor, a round and fluffy wisp of cloud is ready for travel. Surrounded by white lightning, a 
    sapphire rose thunderbird spreads his rainbow wings here, sapphire eyes glowing with a noble 
    intellect.

    Rising high into the sky upon a round and fluffy wisp of cloud, Nelras and Maligorn glide away above the city.

    Cloud-strewn gardens of cirrus and sky.
    One or two light fluffy clouds drift lazily through the sky. Floating above the floor, a round and
    fluffy wisp of cloud is ready for travel. Surrounded by white lightning, a sapphire rose thunderbird 
    spreads his rainbow wings here, sapphire eyes glowing with a noble intellect.

    Curious, Nelras asks Maligorn, "Have you ever seen the Aerie's cloud gardens?"

    Beneath a crystal-and-gold pergola hung with silks.
    It is rather chilly. Engraved with soaring swans, a crystalline table stands here, various platters,
    bowls, and trays stacked high upon it. With a coy countenance, a glistening, vestal swan graced with 
    gossamer cloud wings glides through the air here. Colourful and exotic to behold, a pink-crowned 
    paradise parrot preens dusky, violet wings of eventide here, fragrant, lavender wind wisps dancing 
    about her form. Gazing at his surroundings with interest, a classic trill musician loiters here. A 
    classic trill musician walks about briskly, flute in hand. An enormous falcon nervously talons the 
    ground, wings mantling. A classic trill musician walks about briskly, trumpet in hand. A classic 
    trill musician walks about briskly, harp in hand. Surrounded by white lightning, a sapphire rose 
    thunderbird spreads his rainbow wings here, sapphire eyes glowing with a noble intellect. Irillia 
    Shevat is here, wreathed in a flickering mandala of silvery light. She wields a delicate crystal 
    staff in her left hand. Tribune of the Law, Misea is here.

    Maligorn Shevat looks thoughtful and says, "Well...I have certainly been here before, though I'm not
    sure I've been to the gardens specifically."

    With a flourish of his arm, Maligorn bows deeply.

    Misea curtseys gracefully before Maligorn.

    Maligorn Shevat says, "Hello, citizens."

    With a slight smile, Nelras says to Maligorn, "Well, please do feel free to also explore them if you
    wish to while you are here."

    Irillia curtseys gracefully.

    Beneath a crystal-and-gold pergola hung with silks.
    It is rather chilly. Pillars wrought of thick, limpid crystal uphold an elegant golden pergola here,
    which lords over the cloud gardens of the Grand Aerie with majestic grandeur. Etched into the gold 
    capital of the columns, avian motifs are mute and swan-like as they soar around the column in search 
    of new horizons. Skyblooms climb about these pillars with their white-and-lavender blossoms, 
    releasing a sweet-scented aroma from their petals as they wind about the pergola's aureate structure.
    Silken banners have been hung from its gleaming rafters, diaphanous and lovely as they billow at the 
    slightest breeze. These gossamer pennants each bear the colours and insignia of an esteemed Master 
    Artist House of Hallifax, complete with gemstone tassels that chime pleasantly when caught in motion.
    The sweeping expanse of the pergola allows for a luxury of space, its cool shade making it perfect 
    for hosting a variety of activities, such as an impromptu concert or a picnic. The entirety of this 
    stunning pergola rests upon a thick cushion of cloud, pearly-white in its disarming softness. A 
    delicate bridge arches to meet it, crystalline and sparkling as it rises over the sun-kissed clouds. 
    Engraved with soaring swans, a crystalline table stands here, various platters, bowls, and trays 
    stacked high upon it. With a coy countenance, a glistening, vestal swan graced with gossamer cloud 
    wings glides through the air here. Colourful and exotic to behold, a pink-crowned paradise parrot 
    preens dusky, violet wings of eventide here, fragrant, lavender wind wisps dancing about her form. 
    Gazing at his surroundings with interest, a classic trill musician loiters here. A classic trill 
    musician walks about briskly, flute in hand. An enormous falcon nervously talons the ground, wings 
    mantling. A classic trill musician walks about briskly, trumpet in hand. A classic trill musician 
    walks about briskly, harp in hand. Surrounded by white lightning, a sapphire rose thunderbird 
    spreads his rainbow wings here, sapphire eyes glowing with a noble intellect. Trailing fluttering 
    motes of dreams, the evanescent form of a timid dream phoenix lingers here, musical wings of 
    crystalline filaments cascading behind her. Tribune of the Law, Misea is here. Chatoyant plumage 
    glittering in the available light, a dawn radiant hummingbird hovers here with frenetic energy. 
    Irillia Shevat is here, wreathed in a flickering mandala of silvery light. She wields a delicate 
    crystal staff in her left hand.

    Finished with his preparations, a classic trill musician raises a hand to gesture to the other
    musicians. The three of them strike up a gentle fugue of a violin motif upon the backing of the harp,
    punctuated by occasional smooth bursts from the trumpeter.

    (The Canvas): You say, "Volucer, do you still plan to come? We are beginning now."

    Volucer exclaims to Maligorn, "Who you calling a citizen? Time mangler!"

    A glistening, vestal swan graced with gossamer cloud wings dips her head low.

    (The Canvas): You say, "Ah, you are here already. Even better."

    ih
    "table269902"                 an exquisite, crystalline table engraved with soaring swans
    "swan293387"                  a glistening, vestal swan graced with gossamer cloud wings
    "parrot190625"                a pink-crowned paradise parrot
    "musician118005"              a classic trill musician
    "musician118278"              a classic trill musician
    "falcon63793"                 Volucer
    "musician118012"              a classic trill musician
    "musician118840"              a classic trill musician
    "thunderbird97274"            a sapphire rose thunderbird
    "phoenix216625"               a crepuscular dream phoenix with musical wings of crystalline
    filaments
    Number of objects: 10

    Volucer opens and closes his beak in amusement then hides behind Irillia with a flap of his wings.

    Blinking, Maligorn Shevat says, "Time mangler? That seems like it is meant to be an insult."

    Nelras says to Maligorn, "Alas, Volucer seems to think that we, which is to say all Hallifaxians, have
    been messing with time again, as he would put it."

    Irillia lowers her head for a moment to hide her smile, before shaking her head reprovingly at
    Volucer and urging him to come out.

    Volucer points at Nelras, "He said everyone except him in Hallifax has been playing with time and
    making the world shake."

    Volucer nods his head sagely.

    Tribune of the Law, Misea says, "Oh my, I am not sure I can even play with time."

    Shaking his head, Nelras says, "No, I simply said that I am not quite as used to the idea of some of the
    things that can be done with time as those who are more used to it seem to be."

    Irillia Shevat looks thoughtful and says, "Has it been Hallifax causing the world to shake, then? I
    thought it had something to do with the gnome businessman and those bouncing balls from the sky."

    Volucer tilts his head at Nelras in confusion.

    Tapping his chin, Maligorn Shevat says, "I can earnestly say that I've not observed any strange
    temporal activity in the Basin or city of late."

    Nelras says to Maligorn, "It is somewhat of a relief how quiet things have been in that regard, even."

    In a conspiratorial whisper, Volucer says to Irillia, "Earlier in the early morning... It was cruel
    and cold."

    Misea looks thoughtful, "I know the gnome has been building explosives, but I have not heard of him
    playing with time in anyway."

    Maligorn Shevat says, "However, I have heard that these bouncing balls are being used to capture
    lightning for mining explosives."

    Comprehension flashes across Irillia's face.

    Continuing the hunt for his dark mate, Father Sun presses forward in his journey, lowering himself
    in the sky yet still casting even, full light upon the land.

    Maligorn Shevat frowns and says, "Which does concern us, as Rockholm has been availing themselves of
    these balls without our supervision."

    Volucer says, "Lightning balls? Ohhh can I have one? A present for your favourite most clever falcon
    ."

    Maligorn gives a strange bouncing ball to Volucer.
    Volucer shakes his head at Maligorn.

    Maligorn Shevat says, "I'd advise caution, dear Volucer."

    Irillia clears her throat and discreetly takes a few steps back from Volucer, a concerned expression
    crossing her face.

    Tribune of the Law, Misea says, "They do seem to cause some mighty explosions, indeed."

    Nelras says to Maligorn, "Perhaps the Consortium should try to study them, if they have not already?"

    Maligorn Shevat says, "For now, the balls seem to be rather simple in design, and thus uninteresting
    in the eyes of many Skylarks. However, the effort may be worthwhile."

    Volucer takes the ball between his beak and tests it, biting down very gently.

    Tribune of the Law, Misea says, "I do believe Lord Ayisdra received one of the finished, ah,
    explosives."

    Nelras says, "Ah yes, the ever competing aspects of complexity versus simple
    effectiveness. Still, it might be..." He stops, noticing what Volucer is doing, and asks the falcon, 
    "Would you not rather have some fish?"

    His voice muffled around the ball as he keeps gingerly biting, Volucer exclaims, "Oof oof, vatch fis
    ... I kin do fagick!"

    Misea carefully steps closer to the table and farther away from Volucer.

    Nelras follows Misea's lead while gesturing for the musicians to do the same.

    Maligorn discreetly steps back, raising his hands and staff to brace himself just slightly.

    Volucer bites down hard on the ball of trapped lightning with a sudden 'POP'!

    Irillia pauses in place for a moment as if uncertain how to react, before hastily pulling a notepad
    from her pack and beginning to sketch a quick depiction of the scene.

    Soaring with elongated plumes stretching behind it, an aerial bird flies past a beauty of iridescent
    feathers.

             _ _ __,
      _    .`///,''
    <(* ).`//,'`___.,*
       ',    ,.'``'.___,;*
         ```

    Puffing up his feathers with pride, Volucer exclaims, "Magic!"

    Maligorn Shevat says, "...did he make a bird come out of the ball?"

    Clapping her hands in delight, Irillia lets out a delighted gasp. "Magical indeed! I must beg you to
    do it again."

    Maligorn Shevat says, "Oh my."

    Maligorn Shevat says, "Well, I do have another ball."

    Maligorn gives a strange bouncing ball to Volucer.
    Volucer shakes his head at Maligorn.

    Applauding, Nelras says, "Yes, we must see that again. But before we do, would you all mind if I said a
    few quick words?"

    A sapphire rose thunderbird glides in a precise arc, causing the aether to spark and crackle with
    atmospheric instability.

    Maligorn hums innocently to himself.

    Volucer hides the real ball caught in his claw and stuffs it into a fold of feathers with an
    innocent hum.

    Misea claps her hands together merrily.

    The musicians come to a quiet pause in their fugue, leaving only string accompaniment in the
    background of the upcoming speech.

    Shadows grow longer in anticipation for the return of their dark mistress as Father Sun's chase
    brings him closer to the world's edge.

    Irillia tilts her head and listens intently to Nelras.

    Nelras takes a small step away before turning to face those who have gathered here.
    He glances around quickly, clearing his throat before saying, "First of all, will you all allow me 
    to thank you for coming here. I am afraid that it would seem to be a somewhat more exclusive gala 
    than we might have originally planned, but hopefully we shall be able to make it an enjoyable one 
    all the same."

    Nelras says, "Now, I did speak of a contest when I first announced that we would be holding this gala,
    and shortly we shall be able to view the winning entry, alongside various other refreshments over on 
    the table. But before that, I would like to thank some people for making this possible.""

    A small fanfare of trumpet and flute provides a light flourish.

    As the sun passes below the horizon's edge, Mother Night unveils her terrible, shadowy beauty,
    spreading darkness across the land.

    Volucer lets out a slow squeak of a sound, resembling a deflating balloon.

    Nelras says, "Firstly, I would like to thank the Grand Aerie for Harmonious Refinement, for without the
    Aerie we would not have the use of these most spectacular cloud gardens. Secondly, the Bureau of 
    Artistic Endeavors, for their support in the organization of this Gala. And, of course, the Lady 
    Isune, for it was She who gently guided us into the action which led to this taking place."

    Maligorn nods solemnly.

    Across the heavens, the stars and moon challenge night's dark reign, revealing familiar
    constellations that tell the tales of myth and legend.

    Misea smiles faintly as she listens.

    Smiling, Nelras say, "That does bring me on to a somewhat amusing story, as Misea here can attest to.
    We were standing before the Matrix discussing, among other things, the avian creatures which act as 
    companions to so many Hallifaxians. Then, almost out of nowhere, those most unlikely words were 
    spoken. "Bird Party." Before anything else could be done, the Lady Aesthete was among us and just 
    such a party was being arranged."

    Laughing before he continues, Nelras concludes, "Of course, we could hardly call it
    that, and so the Grand Avian Gala came into being. I do hope that you all will enjoy the gala as 
    much as we have it's formation."

    Misea nods her head in agreement.

    Maligorn Shevat murmurs, "But would anyone have actually objected to Bird Party, is the question."

    Irillia arches an eyebrow quizzically but responds with a polite smile.

    Irillia Shevat says, "I am rather glad that you chose the name of the Grand Avian Gala, for my part.
    And it is a pleasure to see such a variety of different avian companions in attendance."

    Tribune of the Law, Misea says, "Admittedly, when I mentioned a 'bird party', it was not quite on
    this scale."

    Maligorn pats a sapphire rose thunderbird in a friendly manner.
    A sapphire rose thunderbird beats his wings like a thunderclap, sending bolts of lightning flashing
    across their surface.

    Nelras says to Irillia, "Ensuring that they might be as comfortable as we are was a part of this from
    the very beginning."

    Nelras pets a crepuscular dream phoenix with musical wings of crystalline filaments ingratiatingly.
    With a content sigh, a crepuscular dream phoenix with musical wings of crystalline filaments leans 
    up against him, blinking drowsily.

    Misea pets a glistening, vestal swan graced with gossamer cloud wings ingratiatingly.
    A glistening, vestal swan graced with gossamer cloud wings rubs her beak on Misea affectionately.

    Ribbons of dawn-hued brilliance bursts across the sky, the artistic display heralding the arrival of
    Isune, the Aesthete, to mortal perception.

    Iridescent motes alight from the aether, converging in brilliance until revealing the lustrous form
    of Isune at the heart.

    Maligorn jerks slightly as the air fills with sparkling motes of bright light.

    Maligorn hums a happy tune.

    (Hallifax): Nelras says, "Greetings, Lady Isune."

    Radiant as the dawn, Maligorn languidly raises a hand skyward, motes of twinkling sunlight
    scattering from his fingertips.

    Irillia curtseys gracefully before Isune.

    Maligorn Shevat says, "My Lady Isune."

    Misea curtseys gracefully before Isune.

    Nelras bows reverently before Isune.

    Maligorn bows respectfully to Isune.

    "'Lo!" Gero quips cheerfully, waving at Isune.

    Nelras tells Gero, "I am glad you could join us."

    A bright flash of radiant dawn light arrives with the Lady Aesthete.

    A brilliant sun rises into view, imbued with the radiance of dawn.

                                     .
                                     '
                        .            |           .
                         .           .          '
                          \          |         /
             .             '         |        .            .
                 .          \        '       /          .
                    '  .     \       |      /       . '
                        ` .   .,+~'`^`'~+,.     , '
    .  . . .._ __ ____ __ _ .'             '. '_ __ ____ __ _ .. .  .

    Midnight shadows coalesce around a new day, and Mother Night embraces the land in utter darkness.
    It is now the 21st of Juliary, 505 years after the Coming of Estarra.

    Gero slips into a dapper, fawn-banded black felt hat.

    In the wake of the light display, the musicians transform their soft backdrop into the fuller melody
    of traditional gala music.

    Nelras says to Isune, "We are honored by Your presence here, Lady Aesthete. Thank You."

    The cold voice of Gero sends chills down your spine, "It is good for me to seek company ever once in
    a while."

    A pink-crowned paradise parrot launches forward to soar through the air in circles around Isune's
    head, letting out high-pitched cries of jubilation, as Irillia watches with a faint smile.

    Gero rubs at his eyes, "Literally blinded by Your radiance."

    Misea clasps her hands lightly, smiling as she watches Isune's grand entrance.

    Maligorn nods his head sagely at Gero.

    Irillia Shevat says, "Thank You for brightening the night by bringing the sun with You, Lady Isune."

    Her head turning to follow the suddenly moving parrot, a crepuscular dream phoenix
    with musical wings of crystalline filaments takes a hesitant step towards Isune before looking back 
    at Nelras, who urges her forward.

    Beaming warmly at all assembled, Isune takes in each face and presence, spending moments gazing upon
    each person with pride. "Dearest ones, it is a pleasure to see so many of you gathering. May My dawn 
    be a symbol of how we might be united against the darkness and banish it, together."

    Irillia Shevat smiles impishly and says, "Lady Isune, You almost sound as if You were about to
    announce a wedding."

    A glistening, vestal swan graced with gossamer cloud wings ruffles her feathers.

    Motes around the Lady Aesthete sparkle with Her unrestrained, iridescent amusement.

    With amusement and a slight somberness to Her tone, Isune, the Aesthete says, "It is always a good
    time to be reminded of what we can accomplish together, whether through marriage or simply standing 
    as One."

    The ghost of a smile passes fleetingly across Isune's lips.

    Shaking his head sadly, Gero says to Isune, "They know my Love, our secret is no longer!"

    Streaking in from the heavens, a slim rainbow of dawn-hued radiance lifts Gero from behind and
    whisks him off into the aether at the behest of Lady Isune.

    Maligorn Shevat says, "Oh my."

    Tribune of the Law, Misea says, "Oh my, indeed."

    Nelras says, "It has been a long time since I have seen that done, I must say."

    Irillia presses her fingertips to hide her smile, although the sparkle in her eyes betrays her
    expression.

    Tribune of the Law, Misea says, "Too bad he didn't stay long enough to try the refreshments."

    Gesturing towards an exquisite, crystalline table engraved with soaring swans,
    Nelras says, "Speaking of which, would anyone care for some tea while we wait for him to return?"

    Looking at Her nails with a satisfied smile, Isune, the Aesthete says, "Oh a short timeout will do
    him well. He will survive."

    Motes around the Lady Aesthete sparkle with Her unrestrained, iridescent amusement.

    To their credit, the musicians seem unperturbed, even adding a little lightness to their playing
    with a delightful flute counterpoint.

    Irillia Shevat says, "Ah, yes, Lady Isune, would You care for a cup of tea? I'm sure that launching
    rainbows of vengeance must leave You in need of some refreshment."

    Volucer says, "Me me! Oh, wait, did you bring my favourite tea???"

    Maligorn Shevat says, "I would hope -someone- brought along the fish oil tea."

    Beaming with a mischievous twinkle in Her eye, Isune, the Aesthete says to Irillia, "Most kind,
    dearest Renaissance. I would adore some of Hallifax's best tea, it has been some time."

    Tribune of the Law, Misea says, "I've selected white orange-blossom and pomegranate tea, as well as
    auroral opal oolong tea. The first is in the golden feather cups, and the latter in the blue aerial 
    cups."

    Volucer exclaims, "Wait, it has OIL? It's suppose to be fresh fish tea!"

    Irillia Shevat smiles and says to Isune, "Then, please allow me the presumption of offering You the
    tea crafted in honour of You."

    Maligorn glances askance.

    Irillia takes an aerial tea cup of sapphire and empyrean blue glass from an exquisite, crystalline
    table engraved with soaring swans.

    With a respectful inclination of her head, Irillia gives an aerial tea cup of sapphire and empyrean
    blue glass to Isune, the Aesthete.

    Volucer says to Misea, "Those teas are awful! This bird party demands fish tea."

    Nelras tells Tribune of the Law, Misea, "I did tell you that you had made good choices, did I not."

    Volucer pouts a little as his wings droop and his beak raises indignantly.

    Irillia gives Volucer a horrified gasp.
    Using his tongue and the roof of his mouth, Volucer makes a quiet clicking noise.

    Tribune of the Law, Misea says, "Fish tea...? So fish soup."

    Volucer stares implacably at Misea.

    Volucer says, "Soup is not tea... is it?"

    Making his way towards the table, Nelras carefully slips a fish wrapped in paper to
    Misea, whispering, "Give him that, if there is nothing else here."

    Volucer says, "The little small furry Chairman person made it for me."

    Irillia Shevat says, "I believe there -is- a fish brew tea, but it is hard to imagine anyone could
    object to Lady Zyphora's delicious orange blossom and pomengranate tea. Hmph."

    Volucer says to Irillia, "Needs more fish."

    Constructed from smooth planes of frosted crystalline, this exquisite table bears tiny, artfully
    placed snowflake inclusions beneath its surface. Smooth and polished, the edges are reminiscent of 
    ice with decorative, bevelled edges. This fine piece of furniture sits atop thick and stout legs, 
    each crystal pillar engraved with the crest of the Aerie, soaring swans flying to partake of the 
    feast above.
    It weighs about 100 pounds.
    An exquisite, crystalline table engraved with soaring swans is holding:
    "cup222261"                   an aerial tea cup of sapphire and empyrean blue glass (filled with
    auroral opal oolong tea)
    ...
    "cup286110"                   a porcelain tea cup embellished with golden feathers (filled with
    white orange-blossom and pomegranate tea)
    ...
    9 items found.

    Tribune of the Law, Misea says, "Ah, yes, Lady Zyphora's shop did not have any fish tea and I could
    not find any, I'm afraid."

    Volucer nods his head sagely.

    Nelras takes a porcelain tea cup embellished with golden feathers from an exquisite, crystalline table
    engraved with soaring swans.

    Misea nods subtly at Nelras.

    Nelras say to Irillia, "I know that I certainly could not."

    Irillia flashes you a joyous smile.

    Misea unfolds some paper from around her newly acquired fish to offer to Volucer, "But, we did
    procur you a wonderful whole fish!"

    With the air of someone bestowing an immensely great favour, Irillia Shevat says to Volucer, "Oh,
    very well, I will make a cup of your fish brew tea. And I will restrain myself from informing Lady 
    Zyphora that you dared to impugn upon her tea recipe."

    The horizon glows with burnished shades of orange and red, heralding the imminent arrival of Father
    Sun upon the rim of the world.

    Irillia takes the Quintessential Mandala of Resplendent Harmony in both hands and bows her head.
    Swirling ribbons of colour race outwards from the mandala, wrapping about Irillia as she begins to 
    break down into an infinite number of small, fractal shapes before flaring outwards in a fractal 
    swirl, dissipating into the air.
    Raising her neck with regal hauteur, a pink-crowned paradise parrot flaps dusky, violet wings of
    eventide and soars elegantly off to the ether, fragrant, lavender wind wisps chasing her form.

    Nelras take a drink of white tea from a porcelain tea cup embellished with golden feathers.

    Maligorn leans on a sapphire rose thunderbird seeking consolation.
    A sapphire rose thunderbird fixes his cloudy gaze upon Maligorn, eyes whirling like maelstroms.

    Nelras says, "Meanwhile, might I say that both of the teas here are absolutely wonderful, and a credit
    to those who know how to create such wonderful combinations. Even though I have selected the orange-
    blossom and pomegranate for now, I know that the auroral opal is also a fine choice."

    A single, crystal clear note pierces the air as several wisps of silvery light drift in from the
    east, coalescing into the form of Irillia.
    Preceded by fragrant, lavender wind wisps, a pink-crowned paradise parrot with dusky, violet wings
    of eventide arrives from the east in a graceful descent.

    Irillia curtseys gracefully.

    Irillia gives a bottle to Volucer.
    Volucer shakes his head at Irillia.

    Irillia Shevat smiles impishly and says to Volucer, "There you are, then. I hope that tea is fishy
    enough for you."

    Taking slow, gentle sips of the auroral opal oolong tea, Isune closes Her eyes to focus on tasting
    the nuanced flavours with a soft smile playing upon Her lips as She breathes in the aroma at the 
    same time.

    Tribune of the Law, Misea says, "I did choose the auroral opal because reminded me of the Lady
    Aesthete, and seemingly that was by design."

    Misea chuckles softly.

    Irillia Shevat smiles and says to Misea, "Indeed, that was a most perceptive choice."

    With a grin while Her eyes exude a warmth, Isune, the Aesthete says to Misea, "It seems you have
    found your way to My Canvas most appropriately then."

    Maligorn takes an aerial tea cup of sapphire and empyrean blue glass from an exquisite, crystalline
    table engraved with soaring swans.

    Tribune of the Law, Misea says to Isune, "Thank You, Lady Isune. I have greatly enjoyed my time
    there, thus far."

    Inclining Her head in thanks, Isune, the Aesthete says to Irillia, "A most delightful choice, My
    Renaissance. Beautifully subtle and complex with its floral and fruity notes. The oolong allows the 
    natural additions to shine with its milder flavour."

    Volucer stares around himself, "Huh, where did my fish tea go?"

    A pink-crowned paradise parrot soars spectacularly through the air, her tail trailing streamers of
    dazzling colour behind her.

    Misea takes an aerial tea cup of sapphire and empyrean blue glass from an exquisite, crystalline
    table engraved with soaring swans.

    Misea takes a drink from an aerial tea cup of sapphire and empyrean blue glass.

    Irillia Shevat says, "Oh, it seems I was rather loath to let go of it. Apologies, dear Volucer."

    Irillia gives a bottle to Volucer.
    Volucer looks inside a bottle and tilts his head to the side.
    Nodding to himself pointedly, Volucer says, "Hmm, is it fish brew tea?"

    Volucer exclaims, "It is it is!"

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

    Nelras says, "While we are discussing such things as recipes, might I direct your attention towards the
    platter which currently sits atop the table? Upon it, you will find the winning entry to the contest 
    for a centerpiece of carved fruit."

    Volucer eyes the bottle's opening and tilts it over his head and into his beak, accidentally taking
    a fish brew tea bath with his drink.

    Maligorn wrinkles his nose and sniffs.

    Maligorn shakes his head.

    Crackling purple-blue lightning tears across the Lusternian skies. Bizarre shapes fade in and out of
    sight, their appearances incongruent with the familiar firmament above. Suddenly, strange bouncing 
    balls fall out of the atmosphere towards the Basin of Life.

    Glorious rays of morning light burst forth from Father Sun's crown as it peeks over the world's edge
    , announcing a bright and shining new dawn.

    Maligorn Shevat says to Nelras, "May I assume that these are also for eating, not just looking?"

    Irillia takes a rosy salad cradling a cygnine carving from an ivory porcelain platter.

    Maligorn takes a rosy salad cradling a cygnine carving from an ivory porcelain platter.

    Misea takes a rosy salad cradling a cygnine carving from an ivory porcelain platter.

    Misea proudly shows off a rosy salad cradling a cygnine carving:
    Thin, petal-shaped slices of blushing guava fruit and white peach have
    been assembled into a round, swirling pedestal. Encircled by a line of
    raspberries, they sit upon the simple porcelain platter, a sweet sepal
    for the painstakingly-carved watermelon centrepiece. Many of the
    characteristically bold stripes have been chiselled away, leaving tiers
    and tiers of almost lacy flesh and one unbroken, fragile layer that once
    was the rind. The image upon the rosy melon is unmistakably that of a
    swan in profile with its visible wing flaring up; its palest apple-green
    plumage wraps a little around the melon as its darker tailfeathers sink
    lower out of sight, making it look as if the avian has blossomed from
    the watermelon flowers it cradles. The fruit flesh itself is practically
    an ovoid tower of carved roses, seedless and succulent.

    Nelras says, "The winning entry was created by the most wonderfully talented Xeii
    Shevat." He pauses, smiling, before he adds, "And I assure you that my bias in that regard extends 
    only to how I announce her victory, not to ensuring it in the first place."

    Maligorn hums a happy tune.

    Irillia turns a rosy salad cradling a cygnine carving slowly around and around in her hands,
    admiring the cygnine carving with wide-eyed approbation.

    Volucer flaps his wings and shakes his head, flicking fish brew tea everywhere and on everyone.

    Misea chuckles long and heartily at Nelras.

    Nelras says to Maligorn, "And yes, they are most certainly for eating."

    Tribune of the Law, Misea says, "She did do a wonderful job."

    Maligorn carefully shields his salad from the fish oil catastrophe.

    "Volucer!" Irillia exclaims in protest, wrapping one wing close to her body to shield herself and
    her salad from the shower of fish brew tea.

    Volucer looks about in confusion.

    Isune eyes Volucer sternly, "Volucer. Tsks."

    Maligorn quickly devours a rosy salad cradling a cygnine carving.

    Misea quietly dabs at some of the fishy tea that ends up on her outfit.

    Maligorn Shevat says, "I do approve of this dish."

    Nelras ducks out of the way of the flying tea, before having to wipe some of it
    from his wings all the same. He casts a slightly irritated look towards Volucer before saying to 
    Maligorn, "I shall let her know."

    Elegantly waves a hand around the attendees, Isune graciously twirls a finger around each person and
    bird to evaporate the flecks of fish tea... and its accompanying smell.

    Irillia Shevat says to Nelras, "It is beautiful indeed. I will guess from the craftsmanship that it is
    the work of your lady wife?"

    Volucer says, "Oh, uh, oops?"

    Smiling, Nelras says to Irillia, "Indeed it is."

    Irillia Shevat says to Isune, "Thank You, Lady Isune. That cleansing was most welcome."

    (The Canvas): You say, "Thank You, Lady Isune. That could have been quite unpleasant, had we had to
    stay here like that."

    Nelras nods his agreement.

    Irillia takes a porcelain tea cup embellished with golden feathers from an exquisite, crystalline
    table engraved with soaring swans.

    Tribune of the Law, Misea says, "Indeed, though I am glad Volucer is enjoying his party refreshments
    too."

    Nelras says to Volucer, "It is generous of you to wish to share, but we have plenty of our own tea.
    Thank you all the same, but there truly is no need."

    Volucer says, "Well, I guess, how else can I convince you that my very best fish brew tea is best?"

    Volucer hums a happy tune.

    Nelras whispers to Volucer, "If you convinced us of that, there would be less for you. We could hardly
    do that, now could we?"

    Volucer ponders the situation.

    Maligorn takes a drink from an aerial tea cup of sapphire and empyrean blue glass.

    Volucer bobs his head slightly.

    The sun reaches the zenith of the firmament, pausing in his quest to allow the land to bask in his
    shining golden rays.

    Volucer says, "This is true."

    Irillia Shevat looks thoughtful and says, "I suppose I have heard folktales telling of fish raining
    from the sky, so I suppose that fish tea raining upon shouldn't have been too terribly unexpected."

    Tribune of the Law, Misea says, "If bouncing balls can rain from the sky, fish does not seem so
    farfecthed."

    Misea takes a drink from an aerial tea cup of sapphire and empyrean blue glass.

    Irillia nods her head at Misea.

  • So glad to see it all went down well :) Also, <3 fireworks
    "May this be the first of many new experiences for you, Heart of the Crescendo," Czixi says, smile quirking. "The future is an exciting place."

    https://estelss16.deviantart.com/, visit if interested.
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