The Northern Lights Benefit Concert

The time for the concert is 6PM sharp! The guest list is urged not to be late because due to the nature of this venue, latecomers won't be able to get in. This is because he's using his Rod of Security to transport his fellow performers, friends, crew, and audience members to his personal pocket dimension for the show.

He waits as long as he possibly can, and at 6:20 he uses the relic and the gathering of exactly 200 people disappear from the courtyard of the palace to Mr. Gold's paradise. The venue is large enough to contain all the guests with plenty of room to breathe. There are plush chairs of burgundy and gold that recline and even have a button to massage anyone who sits in them. The entire building appears to be made of gold covered in a layer of shiny resin that contains rainbow glitter to make the walls, floor, and ceiling sparkle and shine without getting a glitter mess all over everything. Heart-shaped floor-to-ceiling windows along the walls show no land in sight, but and endless expanse of stars and a rainbow aurora in the sky as though this arena is floating among them.

Fountains of liquid chocolate flow freely in an area that offers and endless supply of free food, mostly cupcakes and candy of all kinds, and there are enchanted cups enough for everyone with a sign that boasts the glass will fill with the holder's favorite drink and refill itself as needed. And it's true. All of the potted "plants" that decorate the room are actually branches of chocolate that grow tufts of cotton candy that grows back instantly when plucked for eating, and they're potted in a brownie-like cake substance.

There is plenty of room in front of the stage for dancing and standing, and the stage itself is a marvel to behold. Rainbow colored lights and a white spotlight dance across the elevated surface. The curtains are a shimmering golden material, and the backdrop is enchanted to change itself to suit whoever is on stage. While everyone is getting acclimated to the wondrous hall and no one is performing, it's just a reflection of the rainbow aurora and stars outside with the words "Nathaniel Gold's Northern Lights Benefit Concert" fading in and out with the message, "The Weirdale embassy thanks you so much for your donations! Eat and drink as much as you like. You will retain neither intoxication nor calories when you leave tonight."

The set list is as follows:

Champion Selathanael of the Leaf and Star
Jenzaka of Clan Bloodfist
Aydn and Cecine Lyndis
Liadin the Grey
Quentin Laurel
Nathaniel Gold with Special Guest Wealdrunner

((I will post the details of Quentin's and Nathaniel's performances later, but y'all can go ahead and post a description of your character's performance if applicable, or post and let us know which of your characters are attending in the audience, what they're doing, reactions, whatever you want to express. For the performers, the backdrop of the stage is enchanted to display whatever the performer wants/would support and compliment the performance, so that's up to you to describe if you would like to engage that detail!))

My characters in attendance:

Paxton Saint
Aurora Torreldottir of the Leaf and Star
Wren LaCroix
Alice Pagan
Ezra Strange
Adam Gold
Val Cross (for those of you who have met the big red wolf)
Ace and Grace Mercury
Lucy and Robin Laurel
Maverick Summer
Clementine Watson

Notable descriptions and interactions:

Aurora is of course leaning up on the stage with her heart in her eyes as Selathanael performs his piece. She's all over him with affection the minute he's off stage and radiating pride. Glory is, as always, strapped to her back in a fancy harness.

For those who have not had a description of Val Cross, he is a large red anthropomorphic wolf with a well-tailored suit that fits his massive frame like a glove. His pants have a short sleeve that extends a third of the way down his elegant red tail, his claws are dipped in gold, and his three-piece suit is black and forest green with a gold tie. He wears leather straps on his paws like one with human feet might wear shoes, and his bright green eyes are a stark contrast to his flame red fur.

His demeanor is friendly and extroverted. He's not reserved, and seems rather approachable. He grins with all his teeth when Aydn takes the stage, clapping rather loudly for them. For his part, he socializes mostly with people who dress as though they're probably upper class Silver Valley folk.

Ezra and Alice are reserved, and spend most of the evening sitting together and taking it all in. The couple stay well away from those from Luthienesti, with respect, as any of those from the paladin city that have an innate "detect evil" or any other sense for dark magic, they get a fully loaded "YES GOD YES RIGHT FUCKING HERE HOLY SHIT THIS GUY" from Ezra. Paxton sits near them and seems a little protective of his mentor and idol.

The delegation from Luthienesti is not large, but is very respectful.  Brother Eliad is present and walking next to him, not holding hands but with a closeness that perhaps depicts "date" status is a tall, lithe elven lady whose obvious and well muscled grace is only slightly interrupted by the crutch under her left arm.  She is introduced (to those who do not know her) as Faolena, and a long braid collects her dark hair over her shoulder.  She is dressed in light but clearly "dress" grey leather, with tall boots and a corseted top.  Brother Eliad is clearly besotted with her, and he is a perfect gentlemen seeing to her every need, dressed in the most casual garb anyone has seen him in yet, a long green coat with silver lining and buttons, his hair collected at the nape of his neck with a silver ribbon.

Also of note among the elves is lieutenant Limthas, the one who lost the duel to Gorthak, wearing his plate armor polished to mirrorlike perfection, his scabbard empty but still present as if there to show the point that he came unarmed.  He has seemingly changed his tune on Weirdale considerably, all smiles and warm greetings.  Following close to Limthas is a robed elf in white and silver, but not wearing the ornate robes of the Luthienesti priesthood.  His eyes are full of wonder at the pocket dimension and he asks many questions about how it all works.  He is introduced as Sorintheus, Limthas' brother, and a high ranking member of the small conclave of wizards that are sanctioned to work in the name of Luthien.

Questions about General Helena or Father Morvion are deflected by these four, the only present seemingly with the station to answer, in an effort to focus the mood of the occasion in a positive way.  Limthas, the ranking paladin present, curtly but definitively shuts down even the slightest eyebrow raising regarding their hosts, and Sorintheus assures anyone rude enough to say a word in that vein that the dimension they stood in was quite malleable and capable of doing terrible things to those possessing no manners... while sipping his wine and smiling.

When it comes time for Selathanael to take the stage, he seems at first aloof and distant as he sets the backdrop to a dawning sunrise of gold and purple. As Nathaniel takes his place to accompany on the piano, Selathanael, dressed in an immaculate long coat of purple and gold, addresses the audience.

"This gathering is aptly named. We assemble under a warmth and intent of light, of unity, and so I shall share with you today a piece that is all about light, and about the greatest of unity, that being love."

And then, seemingly flipping a switch from "aloof public performer" to "audience of one," he brings his flute to his lips and keeps his eyes on his wife's smiling face throughout his entire performance.

((Link to song:

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Aurora's eyes mist and she clutches at her heart while Selathanael plays. Tears fall freely down her cheeks, and the second he gets off stage, he's getting the kiss of his life.

Nathaniel plays the piano very quietly, letting Selathanael's music take the focus of the performance. For his part, he's only wearing a white shirt and brown pants right now. He's pointedly not trying to be the center of attention. (Yet.)

A perhaps unexpected group of the sisters of Syn (the snake-ladies from Viper falls) arrives, led by little Sophie, to donate a rather hefty delivery of blankets and handcrafted, high quality leather clothes and coats lined with down.

Brother Eliad notices and approaches them to thank them, and the eerily mature young druidess smiles and says "You fought to defend our home. It is still our home, and when the evil is dispelled from it, and we may return to live there, you will be welcome to visit whenever you like!"

Sorintheus seems fascinated with them and thanks them profusely.

Janzaka is the only member of Clan Bloodfist to go to the pocket dimension. Gorthak is present at the departure point to greet the Luthenites.  Lieutenant Limthas is greeted with a formal and respectful military salute followed by a warm and friendly hand shake.  If asked why he won't be attending the concert, he reply's "I'd rather give others the chance to go, besides, Shaman Jenzaka is more then capable of representing the Clan."

As Jenzaka takes the stage it is perhaps the first time most people will have seen her without her armour.  Instead of her armour, she is dressed in furs that cover her from neck to knee, while leaving her well muscled arms bare.  She is also wearing good leather boots and fur cloak.  The outfit is black save the caller of the cloak, witch has been dyed a deep red.

Jenzaka sings four songs and keeps a beet on a drum she holds under one arm.  The songs she sings all tell a story and she weaves her magic into her music to cast powerful illusions above the stage that act out the stories.  While most of the songs are about battles, the blood and gore that would go along with such fights has been left out of the illusions for the benefit of the people watching.

The first songs tells of the clan being concurred by a mighty empire.  The second, tells of a group of half-ogres and other races overthrowing slavers.  The third song is the only one without a bettle.  Instead it tells of a massive group of half-ogres and people of other races moving to a far off land and reforming the Clan.  The last song has nothing to do with Clan Bloodfist at all.  Instead this song is about a Human Paladin of Luthen and two Druids battling against a master vampire.  The Paladin fights with his greatsword and Luthens blessings, the Druids fight with spell and claw.  In the end all three are wounded, but the master vampire has been defeated.

With her set completed, Jenzaka salutes the audience and leaves the stage.

Cecine Lyndis, for this occasion, has pulled out the beautiful blue dress that Nathaniel helped her pick out in Silver Valley for their last concert. Soft fabric creates a more delicate silhouette than her armor normally allows, and there’s an ornate silver brooch at each shoulder, decorative beading strung between them on glittering silver jewelry chain. She’s still very tall for a human woman, and the evidence of strength is noticeable in her shoulders and arms, but the more fashionable individuals she lives with must finally be rubbing off on the shieldmaiden. Her curls are smoothed into shiny, firelike ringlets that lick at her shoulders and tumble to the middle of her back. Little gemstone snowflakes affix them in place, which those who were present would recognize as the same adornments she wore for her own re-wedding.

Aydn, on the other hand, is formally armored in his red and black, the armor just returned from expert repair and touch-ups. The red cape with gilded embroidered edgeworks is wrapped and pinned around his shoulders in an older style, adding to the formality. It does still lend to a rather severe appearance even without the mask, which he decided against wearing after long-wrestling with the implications of either choice:

Without the mask, more people know his face. He’s required to manage his facial expressions more sternly. With it, however, the Secrets Master grew concerned that the Luthienesti would see it as a show of deception rather than formality.

He was not going to do anything he thought would compromise his best friend’s hard-won efforts. The mask stays behind at home. Even if he does have to moderate the default crabass he always wears.

Sort of. A little. At least 70% of that crabass stays right where it is, but at least he doesn’t look angry. Have to keep up appearances, after all. He’ll smile where it’s appropriate to smile, greet people he knows, and make polite introductions and conversation with anyone, but for the most part he maintains the carefully cultivated air of ‘I got a job stabbing things because I like it’.

Aydn does have a wide grin for the red-furred wolf though, and makes certain to find his way over to say hello at some point. Other than that, he has to occasionally settle down over near Alice, Ezra, and Paxton to avoid pacing the room full-time. This location was significantly more secure than the open-air grounds for the last concert, and he didn't want it to seem suspicious.

However, the lack of mask makes it immensely more difficult for the assassin to hide the moments where he watches his shieldmaiden move around the crowd, greeting guests, helping to set up anything that’s left to be done, organizing a little spot where any younger children who might be in attendance could go off by themselves to play or be looked after while their parents enjoy the show. The moments he lets it slip onto his face are infrequent and brief, but it would be clear to anyone who manages to notice that he silently adores her.

And that he might murder anyone who looks at her wrong. There’s that there, too. Crabass, after all.

When it comes time for their turn on the stage, he’d be up from his spot somewhere leaned against a wall early, going over to gently catch her attention and make their way over to the stage. Cecine spends a moment with the enchanted backdrop before they get started, and it produces a brilliant image for her. Massive snow-capped mountains rise up from a pristine winter valley, the river snaking through it reflecting the slowly writhing lights in the sky above. It’s not an image of Noth, for certain, and not one from near Weirdale. It’s probably easy to tell that this might not even be from this world at all, for how the distant grey moon glows with what looks like rivulets of faint red light. She’s picked the most appropriate, beautiful memory she can picture, one appropriate for Nathaniel’s theme: Northern Lights.

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It looks like the instrument that Nathaniel had made for Aydn before the last concert has been well cared-for, and Cecine has borrowed another one similar to it from somewhere - sleek black enamel with silver designwork and a four-pointed star-crest on its fretboard - for their first song.

This time he’s the one who sings, and bony fingers plucking at the strings with effortlessness that only comes with having played an instrument for a very long time..

((There is no resistance to the Vortex Gate’s translation, short if the lyrics being heard in their original forms. The meaning would still easily carry, so those are included behind the cuts. The first one has long been my musical voice claim for him, too!))

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Vor í Vaglaskógi - Translation:

Anyone who lives in the house with them would have easily heard her trying to coax him into something this week. This would seem to fit with all of the overheard nudgings.

When they change to the second song, the shieldmaiden sets aside her old-fashioned stringed instrument, picking up a decorated frame-drum to keep low and soft rhythm as her husband plays, her voice softly singing a delicate melody.

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Verd Mín - Translation:

Anyone in the house would know these are not the lyrics she practiced with him, and there’s a mischievous little grin behind the lyrics as she sings words so wholly written in love… and prooooobably about him. Aydn keeps his straight, cranky face… ever the master of perpetual crabassery… but those who know him well enough would see hints of the surprise in lines lessened at the eyes and the light flush that creeps up to pinken only his ears.

Cecine grins at him as they finish the piece, and there’s one little slip of a smirk from the Secrets Master as he disappears from the stage with effortless silence, taking the two citterns with him.

His wife alone picks up the frame drum for the last song, singing something with a more pounding melody that might interest warriors and others among them. While there are bits in the translation about wizards, it would not seem to carry a negative connotation. On the contrary, she glances at the sneaky elf now next to the stage who’s doing his very best to keep up appearances. Perhaps this is just more metaphors for affection that we’re dealing with here?

Not that there isn't a possible alternative meaning that only... ah... a handful of people might catch. Namely Ezra and crew, related to certain spirit-bindings. Still a love song, in its own sneaky way.

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Trøllabundin - Translation:

Both would bow as appropriate to close out the set, and after Cecine leaves the stage Aydn follows her over to the little part of the room she’d been looking after, having some sort of hushed conversation that leaves a blush and a grin on Cecine’s heavily freckled face.

He still looks his default low-grade cranky when he migrates back across the room, of course, circling back around to check in with Wren, and then back towards Ezra, Alice, and Paxton. The way he keeps checking on them, one would have to imagine he’s a bit protective of them as well.

((If any of the visitors from Luthienesti have the ability to determine if there’s magic on a person, Aydn practically glows with it. There is, however, no ‘dark magic’ discernible within it. Cecine has magic, but it’s not at all the same and only that of a spellcaster. Lemme know if anyone needs additional info on him. :3))

Between performances, Alice Pagan gets up from her seat beside the man who radiates dark magic to those who can detect it and makes her way over to the Luthenite gathering. Ezra sits up straight, alarmed, and anyone who can read lips might catch the vivid "What the fuck are you doing," that he hisses at her as she approaches the elves. She ignores him. He stops just shy of following her over there, running an anxious hand through his black hair.

Showing all the social aptitude and grace of a true Orlesian noble, she smoothly introduces herself to the Luthenites in attendance, proudly proclaiming herself as a close friend to the ambassador. She herself does not give off an aura of dark magic, but she is shamelessly attached to the man who does. She'd tell them she wanted to meet the people who inspired Nathaniel to do this, and smile as she made polite conversation. What was it like in Luthienesti? Did they like it here? How were they liking the music so far? Was this as much a culture shock to them as it was to her? Magic, am I right? So surreal. Try the chocolate.

Also, a description of this pair:

Alice is in a beautiful black and white gown and long black satin gloves with a lace mask over her face, dressed in her Orlesian finest. It's quite easy to see her face beneath the lace that goes from forehead to nose, and it's obvious that its function is not to conceal her identity, but merely decoration. It's as much a part of the fashion of her accessories as her gloves.

Ezra is unabashedly corporate goth with sharp pointed black dress shoes, black dress pants, a black button up shirt with a dark green vest and a long black dress coat with tails. The buttons were little silver skulls, there's a translucent rib cage on his tie, and his lapel pins are runes.

The four "ranking" elves see Alice approach, and as Eliad seems to take a step forward, it is Sorintheus that greets her as she gets close to their tight little circle that sits as part of the larger overall elven presence.

Being a Wizard, Sorintheus is, in a way, the perfect one from this particular delegation to "bridge" the gap between someone like Ezra and the staunch, closely watching pack of Luthenites. He makes a point of letting his eyes slip from Ezra to her with a smile, wordlessly pointing out that he understood why the other elves were acting so rudely, and seeming simultaneously understanding of their concern but also not necessarily taking part in it. He is also quite socially skilled, being an elf with a long life of dealing with other elves on the fringe of their society, and he is quite pleasant with Alice. He does try to use the conversation to ask about the arcane presence (meaning non-divine magic) in Weirdale and wonders how all-encompassing the gods and their miracles are next to the mortal-powered magics of study and presence. If Alice lets it be known that she herself is a form of mage, that is where Sorintheus enthusiastically keeps the conversation for as long as he can.

Alice is indeed forward about being a mage, and just as forward about the fact that she prefers "experimental magic," which she would elaborate means careful use of chronomancy only if asked, and elemental magic. She would politely and truthfully answer all of Sorintheus' questions. She would also be open about the fact that she does not worship any god, local or otherwise, and relies on her own power to fuel her practices.

She stays and speaks with him kindly but does not impose or approach the elves who are visibly uncomfortable with her. This seems to be more out of respect than of fear. Eventually, when Ezra looks like he's about to expire with anxiety, she returns to his side and gives him a reassuring kiss on the cheek. He puts a protective arm around her shoulders and surrenders to a deep exhale.

--Important sequential note: Quentin technically goes after Lia! He's the last performer before Nathaniel.--

A woman with loose, fluffy brown hair and a happy toddler that she lifts to sit on her shoulders stand in front of the stage as the penultimate performer sets up with a guitar, Nathaniel volunteering to play piano (still in his subdued white and brown clothes), and a harmonica on a little harness in front of his mouth so he can play it without the use of his hands. Those who have caught his performances at the Verdict have seen this device before.

Those who've seen him perform at the tavern would also notice that Quentin Laurel is a new man. The ghost of pain and miserable regret has been exercised from him completely, and his wolfish smile comes easily. He dresses much the same: sharp red leather duster jacket, black leather pants, and a gray shirt.

"PAPA!" The little boy on the woman's shoulders chirps merrily when he takes a seat on the wooden stool he brought to the stage.

"Hey buddy," Quentin chuckles at Robin as his mother Lucy bounces to placate him and gently shushes him. The smile he flashes at them is soulful and emotional.

He wills the screen behind him to show visions of the tyrant Vecna's oppression of this land and the victorious, happy transition to its new rulership as he sings his first song. Those who did not live here before the Weirdale pantheon arrive would get their first glimpse of life before the new royals took over, and it was pretty bleak. Heraldry to the lich was everywhere, and his soldiers patrolled the streets relentlessly with unchecked authority. A civilization that tried its best to get by under those conditions is reflected in the bard's memories: shopkeeps that give lipservice to the tyrant and eyeroll at as soon as his soliders turned their backs, socializing and trying to make the best of mandatory church every other day. The memories morph into more happy ones of the same streets, the same people, now living their lives as free and independent souls who could be themselves without fear.

(([You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] Sorry for the random Harry Potter imagery? It was the only video of this version of the song that didn't actually play the Watchmen intro sequence, which has some cringeworthy content in it.))

He wills the screen to change for his next song to a more meditative scene of a full moon shrouded in silver clouds with a perfect halo around it for his next song.

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And for his final song, the screen shows memories of him and the woman with the toddler on her shoulders, but much, much younger. It's a love story, and while a few years of their adult lives are conspicuously missing, some of the memories with her are very recent. It's a love song to her, and she's trying (and failing) not to cry.

(([You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] Replace the stuff about "American" obviously. Haha.))

After the song concludes, he winks at the weeping Lucy, and addresses the crowd as he lifts his guitar from his shoulders. "Now I know who some of y'all came to see, and my best buddy is up next. Please give him a warm welcome when he comes back; he worked his pink ass off to make tonight work. Ladies and gentlemen: Nathaniel Gold in just a few minutes."

When he's finished, Nathaniel hurries off to prepare for his set, and there is a few moments' break while he changes clothes backstage.

((Characters present:
Jagd
Liadin the Grey
Wealdrunner))

Out of the public eye, there is a petite woman wearing flowing garments of ombre dyed lilac and cream whose forehead, ears and wrists and ankles glint with silver-and-bone jewelry. She seems quite adept at obfuscating herself and scurrying out of sight as soon as the venue is available. Some might recognize her as the new performer from the Verdict. Quietly, she takes up her post at the space where each artist awaits for their time on stage. She's shy, but full of smiles as she engages each person and affords them with inspirational attention to help ease any stage fright or anxiety - or to simply give them a pep talk! ((Get you some Bardic Inspiration!))

Among the esteemed guests of high rank and low, the Siblings Grey can be numbered. Dressed in their respective finery, the two look even less alike than usual, but they have their father's eyes. The smaller of the two is wearing elegant garments that fit and billow around her lithe form. She looks like she could belong among the immaculate masses, were it not for some of her more startling features. Her larger, younger sibling does not, however, look the least bit acclimated or comfortable. Jagd's efforts to "clean up" are palpable; but there is only so much to be done with so much scar tissue and shaggy fur.

The two seem inclined to stick together, though it is evident that Liadin has more of a leaning toward mingling. At one such point, Jagd has to quietly remind her that she's due on stage in the near future. She soon disappears to find her way backstage to prepare. Jagd looks briefly over to the fashionably-dressed and esteemed-companied red wolf, but seems too self-conscious to approach.

The garments that Jagd has selected for the occasion are of a deep shade of blue that is similar to Liadin's, but their accent colours are warm bronze, rather than silver. Their double-breasted tunic and darker breeches are offset by the beautifully anodized sword of rainbow metal that has been securely peace-knotted into the harness between their shoulders. Attention has been paid to make the harness itself look like a piece of formal attire, what with its shiny buckles, cabochons and glossy leather findings. Jagd wears a patch over their prosthetic eye, and looks as though their fur has been brushed, trimmed, and conditioned dutifully.

The garou has done their best to smooth their openly dour expression, and more or less just appears uncomfortable around so many people, especially after their social buffer has departed. Their good eye flicks from place to place, scanning the crowd like a bouncer should, while exuding an aura of "why did I do this to myself". It's difficult to remain gloomy with so much vibrancy to take in, and so after a while, Jagd does not appear too committed to being a wet blanket. They still seem stiff and abrupt, but with a glass of something non-alcoholic in their paw, they make their way toward their "pack" - attempting to sit near to Aurora. A great deal of their anxiety etherizes when their friends and companions begin to take the stage - they cannot help but radiate pride and even delight at the arrayed talents of the company they keep.

They, too, look a little misty-eyed as they applaud wildly after Selathanael's beautiful composition, and doubly-so when he recieves a "standing ovation" from his lady wife.

They are enraptured by the story-songs that Jenzaka performs, watching with a wide eye and a frequently turned head so that they may take in as many details as possible. They seem especially captivated by the song of the Paladin and Druids.

Adyn's crabassiness helps them feel a touch better about their own, and they watch the playful performance and interplay between the husband and wife duo with delight. While they may not fully understand the nuances of the words of Cecine's "surprise song", they seem to pick up on a few, and smirk for Adyn's sake.

And then it is Liadin's turn...

The fel-corrupted woman who takes the stage following Adyn and Cecine's absolutely radiant performance is small and fair, with ash-grey hair and skin only a shade lighter. Bearing her curled ramlike horns high, she has made no effort to disguise her "abysmal" appearance, much to her sibling's chagrin. She seems to wear it as an open challenge to the Luthienesti to judge this book by her cover. There is a twofold degree of nervousness to her movements. In spite of her best efforts, her sibling's dour gloom-and-doom perspective seems to have infiltrated her own. That, and the realisation that she has not performed before any sort of crowd in decades.

Liadin wears a tailed corset which splits just above her lower back to allow for full movement of her sinuous tail. The cut is custom, and the fabric is of deep blue brocade with silver topstitching and beads that resemble a starry sky. Beneath it is a high necked, white blouse with wide sleeves that flare at the elbow and lace snugly above the wrist. She has donned a pair of soft, blue-grey breeches that gather at the knee, above where her legs give way to the reversed join and hocks. Apart from the spell focus on a silver chain around her neck, she is bereft of other adornments. Her short hair is styled with a wind-swept look, and her straight bangs appear to have been recently cut. All of her attire and affectations seem to have been specifically engineered to show full view of the runes of binding, protection, and containment upon her brow, throat, hands, and hooves.

Even with the bolstering presence of the young woman with whom she spoke prior to stepping out on stage, it's clear - to the front row at least - that there's a little tremble of both excitement and anxiety combined in her hands. Most, if not all, of that anxiety dissipates upon fully taking in the beautifully-crafted venue that Nathaniel has created for his guests from on-stage. She eagerly absorbs the details both large and small, committing them to memory for recollection on a rainy day. The backdrop behind her is misty and black, almost ichorous, save for the halo of pale light that surrounds and follows her as she strides to centre stage.

An unassuming black-lacquered box follows her - floating - and halts just beside and behind her. She looks out, over the crowd, very mortal and very vulnerable, and begins to sing.

The box opens, and appears to be her accompanying instrumental array. Its interior is white, and varnished to a high gloss, with carefully-beveled edges and immense attention paid to the beautiful silver mechanisms inside. An enchanted music box that some might recognize as the commission that Jagd has been burning the midnight oil to complete.

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The song seems deeply personal, and her voice remains highly emotive throughout, often threatening to fail her in some instances. She moves about the stage with grace and poise, and her hands act as conduits of emotion as the music bears her away. While her voice carries throughout the vaulted acoustic channels made in this carefully-crafted hall, the backdrop begins to shift and change, dissipating the darkness and rising like clawing, climbing hands and changing it into a brilliant array of starlight and vibrant constellations over silky white-grey clouds.

When she finishes singing, the music from the box ceases, but its lid remains open. She exits the stage with burgeoning self-consciousness and moves to join her sibling among the audience, and soon has something very alcoholic in her hand.

The red wolf would introduce himself to Jagd when he notices them looking at him, eager to meet one who looks like he does. By the muted surprise and delight in his green eyes, Jagd might just be the first other creature like himself that he's ever met. He tells them his name is "Val Cross," and he works as the advisor to Mayor Raj in Silver Valley. He is very peaceful, friendly, and charismatic, if a little irreverent. Something about his demeanor suggests that he finds this entire situation endlessly amusing.

Aurora would stick to Jagd like glue if she sensed them feeling uncomfortable in the crowd, acting as their buffer when Liadin was away. They match quite well, both with large swords on their backs tied in peace knots with ornate harnesses. She has on black silk pants that flare out at her ankles and a crimson crop top that shows her belly.

Backstage, just before he walks through the gold curtain, Nathaniel wrings his hands nervously. This was it. He was extremely nervous before big performances, and only Wealdrunner would see that side of him: human and vulnerable, listening to the voices and thinking that, though two hundred was a relatively small crowd for him, it was still an important moment. He was blending the two halves of his life: being a musician and being a diplomat. How would it go? Were his friends from Luthienesti having a good time?

He's changed clothes now, no longer playing the role of humble host serving enchanted glasses to his guests or invisible extra on stage. He deliberately tried not to stand out and steal attention away from his friends who needed his help with piano accompaniment to their songs. Now, though...

His shirt was a metallic gold that shimmered with huge loose sleeves that gathered again at his wrists. His vest was sequined with rainbow colors that caught the light and reflected it in a dazzling glitter. Every color of the rainbow was there in a chaotic, beautiful swirl. His pants were tight black leather, and his boots were a crimson color that matched the reds on his rainbow vest and had gold buckles in the shapes of little hearts on the sides: definitely custom made. His white and gold ambassador's pin is fixed to the vest, and he wears an old key around his neck for good luck. Only the gold chain upon which the key hangs is visible most of the time until he moves enough that the old key peeks out above the V of his neckline.

He puts a hand on Wealdrunner's shoulder, winking at her and conveying the same Bardic Inspiration to her that she'd given to all the performers that came before them. "We're up next! You got this. I'm so glad to be sharing the stage with you tonight. I'm going to give a speech and sing a quick hymn for our guests, then I'll introduce you to everyone! Are you ready?"

After receiving a Sending spell from the bard, Quentin briefly retakes the stage to announce him. "Ladies and gentlemen, let's give a warm welcome to your host: Ambassador NATHANIEL GOLD!"

Nathaniel walks out from behind the curtain in his new clothes, and before he lets Quentin off the stage, he steals a gruff, affectionate hug from him. Quentin hops down to stand with his family, then, and the ambassador summons a gold microphone to speak into that projects his voice clearly to the entire room.

"My friends, thank you so much for joining me tonight. And more importantly, thank you for your generous donations to the warmth of our new friends in Luthienesti. Tonight is about them, so let's take a moment to celebrate them." He smiles and claps, leading the room to clap for the devout huddle of elves in their corner. "And let's hear it one more time for the unmatchable talents of Selathanael, Jenzaka, Aydn, Cecine, Liadin, and Quentin! Thank you all for helping me make tonight wonderful!" He leads the crowd in another round of applause, turning a smile to each of his co-musicians. "Thank you, thank you, thank you. I can't say it enough: thank you. I am overwhelmed and humbled by the unity and love I feel in this room. I know that it's not always easy to accept the differences of a culture that is so wholly different from your own," this seems directed both at the elves of Luthienesti and his local friends of Weirdale- a mutual observation of the middle-meeting required when two ideologies collide. "Everything you know and trust to be true isn't true for the rest of the multiverse, but that doesn't necessarily make the others bad people." At this, Ezra looks sidelong at the Luthenites. "Each one of us is unique, each one of us believes a little differently, and the beauty of life is finding love in these differences. Today we hold hands and reject the tyranny of otherness, the desolation of hatred, and the horrors of war. Today we celebrate our new neighbors to the north and cherish the blessed sparks of new friendship."

He smiles with just the faintest emotional quiver of his lip that only those in the first two or three rows of people standing at the stage could see.

"I'd like to start my set tonight with a song to honor our guests: a song that my dear friend Brother Eliad taught me when we met." Gently and whimsically he strums the coiled strings of his pink, sparkling guitar that has a heart shaped opening beneath his long fingers as he lifts his voice to honor the god Luthien in the hymn he learned on Eliad's first boat ride to Weirdale.

Once he's finished, he reaches behind the gilded curtain to pull his Ollamh Harp as the crowd applauds. "And now, please allow me to introduce my newest friend who has agreed to bless me with her help for my next two songs. Some of you have caught her enchanting performances at The Verdict this month, and those of you who have not are in for a treat! Please join me in welcoming Wealdrunner!" He grins over his shoulder.

The elves are notably moved, first by Nathaniel's words then by his singing. Brother Eliad tentatively reaches to hold Faolena's hand during the song, and she allows it with a smile.

Limthas stands, head bowed among his fellow paladins, and pretty much all dissention among the skeptics in the crowd is at least temporarily washed away as they emotionally respond to the hymn with bowed heads and nods of reverent approval. They did not expect to hear this human rival elven voices and elven passion with his performance, and they are visibly impressed.

Coronus arrives at the courtyard with only a few minutes to spare, looking well groomed and handsome even when rushed. Once they are transported to Mr. Gold's Sanctuary, he spends the first few minutes shaking hands and dishing out bear hugs to his friends and comrades of the Strike Team before bee-lining to the food tables, clearly very hungry.

Coronus is dressed in an immaculately tailored suit of dark black wool, with silver trim on the sleeves and collar. His well-fitted shirt is the same blood red as his surcoat, and his waistcoat matches the dark black of the suit with silvery thread weaving intricate patterns across the fabric. His tie is a twisted blend of red, black and white, with his raven emblem embroidered in the middle of the tie in silver thread. His black dress shoes are polished to a dazzling gleam. His beard is neatly trimmed and his hair seems to have been expertly ruffled.

After stuffing his face full of sweets and mead, he begins to make his way through the crowd, taking the time to meet and greet everyone before the concert begins. He first stops to speak with Ezra and Alice, commenting on Alice's lovely dress and shaking Ezra's hand firmly while exchanging a few hushed words. He spends a few minutes with Jagd, attempting to make the handsome wolf more at ease with the party before almost literally bumping into Jenzaka, wishing her well before she goes behind stage for her portion of the show. He greets Maverick and Clementine with a smile, enthusiastically inquiring as to their latest travels and expressing hope that they can work together in the future. After spotting Val Cross in the crowd, he approaches him and formally introduces himself this time and laughing in recognition when he discovers Val's occupation.

As he had not previously officially met any of the elves from Luthienesti, he makes a point to introduce himself to them, both as Coronus and as delegate from Everna, hoping that his off-world experience would create a point of commonality between them.

Just before the concert begins, he takes up his luxurious chair next to Ace and Grace Mercury, cheerily greeting the former and introducing himself to the latter, once again apologising for his display at the Silver Valley jail and laughing about it with the pair of them, quietening down as the light focus on the stage.

Once Selathanael has finished performing, he applauds enthusiastically but quietly, trying to dry his eyes without anyone noticing.

He is captivated by Jenzaka's illusions and unconsciously taps his fingers along with her drumbeat. He cheers and whistles as she finishes her last piece, animatedly discussing their content with Ace and Grace.

Aydn and Cecine's music once again has him in tears too, as he absently plays with his raven medallion, hanging beneath his shirt. He watches the couple perform together, absolutely transfixed by their love and talent.

As Liadin performs, he watches her perform sombrely. The words of her song seem to have a powerful effect on him, but not one that brings tears to his eyes. Flicking his eyes across the room to Ezra once, he watches the rest of Liadin's performance with rapt attention. Once she has finished, he applauds heartily and takes a moment to refill the drinking glasses of himself, Ace and Grace before returning to his recliner.

He smiles joyfully at the first two of Quentin's songs, and then his eyes mist over at the third, watching both Quentin and Lucy with a bittersweet feeling.

He cheers his lungs out when Nathaniel first appears on stage, then listens with a smile on his face as his friend speaks. Nodding in agreement with Nathaniel's heartfelt sentiment, he cheers and applauds once more as Nathaniel introduces Wealdrunner, eagerly awaiting the final performance.

Wealdrunner floats around Nathaniel and offers good-natured reassurances if they seem necessary. The guests all seem to be enjoying themselves thoroughly, and the proceeds of the event are graciously generous!

Once the "Ambardsador" is on the stage, Wealdrunner uses the opportunity to refresh her Polymorph - lest it expire at an inconvenient interval of the performance! She listens with a buzzing energy in her limbs as Quentin primes the crowd for Nathaniel's stirring speech and heavenly hymn. Being a newcomer, she only understands so much of what's going on, but recognizes how important this event is to her new friends and their city.  

She closes her eyes and listens, willing her jangling nerves to be still. The soaring lyrics and radiant acoustics certainly help quell the angry butterflies gnawing at her stomachs.

When it's time, she wraps herself again in transfigurative magic, and smooths her skirts self-consciously. Taking up her little bone flute, she waits for the cue...

On stage, the backdrop shifts, with the rising crescendo of brilliant white wings as the image of over thirty white doves rises from the floor, gliding higher and weaving among eachother to flock as one. There is an eruption of movement as the images reach the apex of the screen, and real doves burst into the air from the curtains above! Each of them carries a hand-woven crown made from chains of pink, purple, and periwinkle blue flowers. As the birds soar out over the crowd, each of them dips down to bequeath their beautiful burdens to a member of the audience. Specific favour seems to be shown to the evening's performers; Selathanael, Jenzaka, Adyn, Cecine, and Liadin among them. Other named recipients who recieve an offered crown are Coronus, Ezra, Wren, Val Cross, Jagd, Alice, Brother Eliad, and any of the Luthienesti retinue who appear interested. Special attention is paid to Robin, who receives a crown delivered by two birds.

Amid the distraction of the stunning white doves, Wealdrunner blinks onto the stage in a silvery cloud of smoke by way of a carefullly-timed Misty Step spell. She smiles radiantly at Nathaniel, and takes up her flute as the birds return to their roost above the stage.

To those who have not yet seen the young human woman perform, she wears a silver circlet that is coiled around a songbird's skull. Her wrists and ankles are adorned by silver bangles made from alternating bells and bone beads; music accompanies her wherever she moves. Her hair has been styled in such a way that resembles a horse's mane, with the sides shaved to emphasize the many piercings in her ears. The silks that she wears are dyed into a gradient from warm cream to vivid violet, the layers of which swirl around her as she sways on the spot. She is barefoot, slender, and built like a dancer.

She offers a small, shy wave to the crowd by wiggling the fingers of her right hand sheepishly, and waits for a sign from Nathaniel that he's ready. The resulting tune is lively and fair, just begging to be danced to. And that she does, seeming unable to keep still! Wealdrunner flutters around the stage with high stepping strides and vibrant energy, letting go of the trepidation she had been feeling until this point.

((They probably play two reps of this, since it's quite short in this song. [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]))

Allowing space for applause and reception of the instrumental duet, Wealdrunner casts a glance out into the audience, almost searching for someone. She smiles at Cecine as though sharing a secret, and then looks back to Nathaniel. The birds above the stage take flight again, and come swirling down in a jubilant vortex. They careen around the two performers, surrounding and obfuscating them from clear sight.

When the wild movement ceases, and the birds alight once more, Nathaniel is not accompanied by a young woman anymore, but a being with different form entirely!

Easily mistaken for the White Stag of yore, the pale creature has a cremello coat whose shoulders and back bear the faint implication of fawn dappling. From her brow and neck runs a tightly-braided fall of silky mane. Her long, almost lion-like tail is feathered at its base and tip, and the fur above her hooves bears the same long, shimmering tresses. The same silver bangles that her human form wore are fastened around her ankles. Similarly, the birdskull tiara peeks out from between the velvety, many tined antlers that sprout from her brow. She regards the audience with a playful bow and prances a spritely circle around Nathaniel before transitioning into their next song. Her hooves fill the niche of percussive instruments, and the bells upon her antlers weave into the song.

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The Lyndises mingle a bit in the transitions between the sets after theirs, though most of that is driven by Cecine’s smiling face. She convinces her husband to follow along with her, and he does so willingly like the multiverse’s skinniest gargoyle. Although she may have greeted the Luthenites and exchanged pleasantries before, she takes the time to be genuinely sociable now, smiling brightly and letting the Vortex Gate translate for her so that no meaning is lost in the process.

At one point they end up speaking with Eliad and Faolena, with Cecine providing much of their half of the exchange. It’s not for lack of politeness, though. The Secrets Master is of course friendly to the pair, and absolutely contributes to the conversation, but mostly lets his wife be the beautifully cheerful and sociable one. There is one point in their conversation that seems to give the elf some ease to the constant alert, though. Perhaps at least one good impression was made here today? Possibly two? It would seem the shieldmaiden is putting forth her best effort to contribute to Nathaniel’s cause.

They don't wander during their friends' performances, though. It would seem they wouldn't want to miss even one of them, but there are still plenty of visits made over the evening, particularly to the familiar faces in attendance. They’re both pleased to see the Laurels, of course, as well as Ace and Grace Mercury. It would seem the Secrets Master even has pleasant words for Maverick and Clementine.

If he had the opportunity, Aydn would introduce Val to Cecine, since they’ve not previously met.

For a while, the two part ways, and while Cecine continues to socialize with the Luthenites, Aydn slips off to where Jagd and Liadin have decided to watch from, attempting to retreat from the crowds for a bit with a nice solid wall to put his back to for a while. Parties. People behind you becomes inevitable.

He’ll eventually find his way around to the others on the strike team, greeting them with a grin. Selathanael and Aurora (and Glory!) are first on his list, and Liadin, and the others, but eventually the old elf makes it through the crowds to Coronus, who he legitimately hasn’t seen since The Never. Seeming genuinely relieved to see him doing well, the assassin would offer him a grin and a greeting translated from his own tongue, with remark that they’d missed seeing him around town lately.

Not that he doesn’t spend plenty of time lurking around Wren, Ezra, and Alice still, because of course he does. Creepy Bean Guild for Life. #IDidntChooseHorticultureItChoseMe

As the last few sets come around, though, they’ve migrated to a couple open seats wherever they might have found opening or invite, Cecine nudging her chair closer to her elf’s. She is just full of the mischief this evening, but he doesn’t seem to mind.

When Wealdrunner takes the stage with Nathaniel, Cecine grins up at her from the crowd. She catches the crown brought to her, making no hesitation about stringing the delicate adornment over her curls. Aydn is busy looking at his awkwardly, as might be expected of his work-face cranky self, but Cecine just leans against his shoulder, plucks it gently from his long fingers with a wide grin, and affixes it around his head for him. He seems to take it well, giving her a good-humored smirk as she adjusts the little flowers on his smoothed black hair.

The moment the lady on stage transforms, the shieldmaiden’s hands are raised and just as excited as her grin, as though she would be cheering if it wouldn’t have interfered with their performance. It’s not lost, though! Just saved for the next opportunity to release it and show appreciation for the beautiful music that Wealdrunner and Nathaniel make together.

Val Cross grins when he receives his crown, his eyes gleaming with delighted mischief.

Ezra's eyes widen in complete shock that he's getting one, blinking at the bird in owlish disbelief. But he lets it happen, and cracks a reluctant smile when Alice looks at it and giggles gleefully.

Robin's squeal of toddler joy when he receives his crown is audible across the arena. Quentin chuckles and just barely gets a hand up in time to gently stop Robin from damaging his own with the enthusiastic hand-slaps meant to draw his papa's attention to it.

After their whimsical duet, he leans down to hug her neck gently and opens his arms wide as if to show off his amazing new bestie to the world. "Wealdrunner, everyone! You'll be seeing more of her around town; I'm delighted to announce that she's here to stay!" Translation: everybody be cool about the deer. Hunting season is the MOST over. He doesn't say that part out loud, but he trusts that it's implied. Besides, now that they've seen her, how could anyone want to hurt this beautiful creature? They would have a very bad time if they did.

Once his partner in musical crime leaves the stage, he takes a seat at his opalescent piano and smiles at the crowd. "I was asked to dedicate this next song to a beautiful lady by the name of Faolena by the man who is delighted to have her company tonight. My lady," he winks at the Luthenite elf, "this is for you."

This is absolutely, one hundred percent not true. But you'd never know it from listening to the bard and watching him glow with the endorsement of this budding romance. ((DEC 24))

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He plays his next song on his guitar with an illusory drumset behind him playing the soft beats that accompany a happy song about Weirdale.

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"Now, then," he grins when he finishes his second solo performance. "Who's ready to dance? Here's a little something silly."

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"I've just got two more, and I couldn't stand up here and not dedicate a song to my cherished Wren. The air in my lungs, the light of my life. You pour our drinks when we're celebrating, and you button my shirt in the morning when my hands are shaking. I love you more than I've ever loved anything, and I can't wait to be your husband."

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"And this last song, ah," he rubs the back of his neck somewhat sheepishly. "This one I wrote after the battle at Viper Falls. This, and my heart, goes out to anyone struggling with what happened there, or with anything at all in these hard times. This is a thing I say to myself over and over when my heart is in my knees: the show must go on."

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By the time he's done singing it, it's a little more apparent that he was wearing gold eyeliner, because it's leaking down one cheek in a dazzling stripe of emotion. He wipes the offending eye with the back of a trembling hand and, despite his tears, manages to sing his fucking heart out and pour his regret and heartbreak into the words. ((NAT 20 on the Performance roll, +15. PERF 35))

Perhaps most surprising thing in the whirlwind of lovely music and honest attempts to make them feel welcome is the reaction of Luthienesti elves to Wealdrunner's "true" form. Some sitting stand, some standing seem on the edge of kneeling, but the overall impression seems to be awe and reverence, and some pensive, contemplative glances shared between the elves. There is certainly no malice among them, and while a few eyes seem misty with emotion above and beyond appreciation with beautiful music, they suddenly seem almost nostalgic in their comfort at this gathering. Something about Weladrunner has certainly struck a lovely chord in the hearts of these elves.

When the dedication to Faolena happens, Sorintheus grins at Eliad, who blushes in the best way possible. Faolena seems beyond touched and actually kisses Eliad's hand where they are clasped, and her rough, pragmatic battleworn exterior softens a moment as she basks in the glow of this lovely bit of attention. Eliad smiles up at Nathaniel, at first shocked and then warmly thankful. The priest had clearly had a hard time breaking the ice with Faolena, and now the ice was thoroughly broken.

Meanwhile Selathanael has spent much of the gathering joined at the hip with his wife, mingling and greeting his friends old and new, and certainly dancing with Aurora to the performances following his.

Coronus, having been out of Weirdale during Wealdrunner's first appearances, is at first stunned by her appearance but cheers her on heartily. As he receives his crown, he graciously accepts it and applauds, looking around the room at his similarly-crowned friends. As Wealdrunner transforms, he is stunned into silence for a moment, then whistles and cheers loudly for the white stag.

Once Nathaniel takes the stage, Coronus applauds and gives him a thumbs-up from the crowd. He listens with a grin on his face to the first two songs, and then leaps to his feet for the third, dancing like an utter loon with a cheesy grin.

He sits back down for Nathaniel's song for Wren, looking back and forth between the couple, watching their beaming faces and admiring their obvious love.

As Nathaniel gets into his final song, Coronus smiles up at his friend, tearing up as Nathaniel does so. Once his final song is over, he leaps to his feet and claps and cheers and whistles until his hands and throat hurt. As soon as Nathaniel is off the stage, he gives him a moment to have some time with Wren, and then wraps Nathaniel up in a huge hug, congratulating him and praising the whole evening.

Coronus spends the rest of the evening drinking, eating, laughing, dancing, swapping stories and hugging. Once the evening starts winding down, he says farewell to those leaving and takes off his jacket and helps to clean up and pack up where he can, helping carry any large items. He is one of the last people to leave, and only with great reluctance does he depart Mr. Gold's Paradise, and slowly make his way back to his home residence, humming and whistling the tunes played that night.

Neither of the Lyndises budge from their seats until Wealdrunner and Nathaniel's performances are complete, and when it's time for the audience to show their appreciation, the otherwise quiet, crabby elf goes into full-on cheer mode on his feet for his best friend's performance. There's a wide, sincere grin pulling at his pale face, and there's finger-whistles involved. Cecine's right there next to him, applauding loudly until the very last of the cheering dies down.

Of course the pair intend to stay to help see that everyone makes it out with all of their belongings and that any equipment brought along gets taken care of, but they're not wallflowers before then.

The pair wait their turn, since they're lucky enough to get to see Nathaniel and Wren every day, but once the two are free Cecine would be immediately offering the bard one of her squeezehugs. "That was beautiful! The whole show was perfect! I'm so happy this turned out so well. It really has turned out well." She beams at him.

Aydn actually offers Whisper's priest a whole separate hug of his own, quietly telling him to the side through a wide grin, "Weirdale couldn't have begged for a better Ambassador."

If she manages to catch up with her, Cecine will offer Wealdrunner a congratulatory hug as well, gushing about the beauty of their performance and the birds and the magic!

Nathaniel has collected himself by the time he and Wren (who rushed backstage to receive him) make their way back out into the party. His gold eyeliner has been fixed and is back in place. It's a subtle shimmer about his eyes that can only be seen when he's standing right in front of someone, but he's repaired the side that ran with his errant tear.

He warmly hugs everyone who comes to hug him and thanks them soulfully. When Aydn tells him he's a good ambassador, gold painted tears run down his cheeks anew, ruining that eyeliner all over again. Maybe not the best choice for such an emotional performance. Wren helps him patch it up with a black stick that has a tiny paintbrush on the end, wiping the stray gold from his face with her sleeve. And Aydn's hug becomes so tight that it's hard to breathe for a second.

Coronus gets his big hug returned as well, and a gushing thank you for being here for him.

Afterwards, he makes the rounds and socializes with everyone, not just his friends. He takes the time to talk to the group from Luthienesti, of course, winking at his friend Eliad and elbowing him with a knowing smile. Then he takes the time to personally thank and welcome all the guests from around Weirdale that he possibly can.

At the end of the night, he would assure his friends that help with clean up isn't necessary. With a joyful tap of his fingers, nails painted gold, on his Rod of Security, he'd smirk and say that as soon as everyone leaves, this place will simply cease to exist. So drink, dance, be merry, and enjoy yourselves!

Music does continue to play for everyone's enjoyment as background noise to the socialization. Nathaniel's real instruments are gone, but illusory ones glitter on stage and play themselves. The bard doesn't seem to have to concentrate much on this, leaving him free to dance and chat and hug.

Selathanael makes sure to give Nathaniel a huge hug for his efforts organizing the concert, and also personally expresses appreciation to all of the performers, including meeting with Wealdrunner and introducing himself. He seems to have a different kind of "elfy reverence" for the deer-kin than the Luthienesti, but it's still there.

Beyond that, he spends a lot of the concert twitterpated with Aurora, and making the friendly rounds to visit with everyone from the strike team.