>>5314940Your return to the Dreaming Dragon is filled with surprises. For one, it seems that Ilanis has assembled an entire orchestra - strings, brass, percussion and winds, an ensemble of instrumentalists setting up next to the stage. A crew of gnomish engineers work diligently on an elaborate machine partially covered by a tarp, hauling parts in and out of the tavern at regular intervals. Overseeing the operation is Ilanis, who rubs her palms together as she issues a litany of directives without pause.
Spotting you, she rushes over and grabs you by the wrist, whisking you off before you can open your mouth to address her. "Sindi! There you are! Guess what I got? Go on, guess!" Pulling you into the seclusion of her home, she releases you and wanders off, returning seconds later with a basket in hand, rifling through it.
You clear your throat and speak. "I-" the girl cuts you off, shoving a flamboyant tangle of fabric into your arms. "It just came in from Waterdeep. Pretty nice, huh? I really need you to put this on and come down here with the rest of us so we can start the rehearsal." You blink, speaking at her. "Wait-" a plea that falls on deaf ears. She is already gone.
With the Dark Fantasy in hand, you descend dressed in a white mesh dance costume, taking your place on the stage as Ilanis speaks at the ensemble. You shut your eyes and breath deeply, considering how far-reaching the consequences of your upcoming performance will be for the first time. All eyes will be on you this time, and as an outsider, your actions will color Everlund's perception of not only you, but your people as well. Whatever you convey here is the light under which both they and you will be seen.
What is it that you want to express with this dance?
>Power. Rapid blade twirling and explosive acrobatics. I want everyone to witness the might of the Ilythiiri, and to understand what my people are proud of.>Sensuality. Dramatic sweeping motions and delicate footwork. The surface world must know that despite our reputation, our culture holds beauty as an ideal.>Expertise. Real combat techniques and difficult technical movements. Now is the time to demonstrate the value of the ancient traditions handed down to me. 