Jarovbees
Approved
Playing: Solstice (Paladin 6)/Umbrae (Sorcerer 1/Warlock 4)/Avren Wands (Rogue 2/Sorcerer 1)
Posts: 706
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Post by Jarovbees on May 25, 2019 4:27:22 GMT
"Ah, laughter is one of the best weapons against despair. I'll drink to that." Solstice gestured for a refill, listening with interest to Crispin's ideas even as she looked a bit skeptical to some of what was said. Shades of grey existed, to be sure, but that didn't mean black and white didn't still exist. So, to hear him say that all goodness was subjective? No, she didn't believe that. But nor was it her job to convert him to her way of thinking, either.
Perhaps Crispin's questions would cause someone less open and more wary to close themselves off, end the conversation then and there. Solstice noticed that not all tongues loosed with drink, even here. However, she loved conversation and had nothing to hide. She shrugged and flashed an easy smile. "That depends on what you mean by 'here'. The Prime Material plane? Waterdeep? The Yawning Portal? Because the answer varies a bit the more specific your meaning. I'm in the Yawning Portal because I like hearing tales of adventure, and gathering information on Undermountain before I think to delve below. I'm in Waterdeep because it's the crossroads for so much; there is adventure and purpose enough to go around, and even a devotee of the Forest Queen and Corellon can find a place. I've not been disappointed yet. As for this plane...that's a longer tale, and I'll give you the option of either hearing it or playing a duet. Now that I've had my fill, I'd love to play another tune."
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Post by vorpal on May 26, 2019 3:29:22 GMT
Likewise for Crispin, he appreciated that although Solstice was set about that notion of goodness... she was open to discussion, to pondering things. That's something he could appreciate. When it came down to it, he really did like hearing from all varieties of viewpoints... as long as those others weren't saying they were the only one to be correct. He'd been around one too many priests or other righteous sorts attempting to push their own view as the only one to abide by. He just... hadn't ever been able to go along with any of it, had found it too confining. In the end, playing things too straight had never really done him much good. The extreme absolutes of good or evil were just... kind of terrifying to contemplate, in either direction.
"Laughter is a weapon. Yes... absolutely, yes! It's a sword that you stab straight into darkness' bloody heart..." There was so much amusement in his eyes as he said this, as it was the perfect combination of his beliefs and occupations, that of entertainer and killer, things which he pursued with the mind of an artist. He drained his drink, got another, finding himself quite pleased with this choice of drinking companions.
"I was indeed thinking mostly of Waterdeep itself, but you're right, there are other... much more interesting stories to be had from you." Given who she was, she surely had quite the tale there, the reason for coming to this plane. "But anyway, you're right! We ought to get to playing sooner or later. Not that I won't want to hear your story, but... music first." He'd been eager to try out a tune since he'd come in and started listening to her play.
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Jarovbees
Approved
Playing: Solstice (Paladin 6)/Umbrae (Sorcerer 1/Warlock 4)/Avren Wands (Rogue 2/Sorcerer 1)
Posts: 706
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Post by Jarovbees on May 26, 2019 6:37:03 GMT
"Aye, let's! Just let me settle my tab...." Solstice takes out a few coins from her pouch and slides them over to the barkeep, winking. "Thanks, Durnan." The barkeep grunted a reply, clearing away the bar and gesturing for the next set of adventures eager to be hauled below to wait a minute. "Not much of a conversationalist, that one. But I like him anyway; how can you not like a man who looks at a hole into a dangerous pit of the unknown and says 'I'll build a tavern right on top of it'? That takes some serious guts, whatever he's seen and done in his time."
Glancing around, she hums in thought. "Hm, we should move away from the bar for this. Got a preference for a jam session space?" A booth or table on the first floor would do, but she knew there was space upstairs as well, if he'd rather have a view of the taproom from above. Either way, she was eager to get started and spread some merriment around.
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Post by vorpal on Jun 1, 2019 2:15:42 GMT
"Good!" Crispin likewise paid out his tab, turning to grin at Solstice. "So in other words, you're saying he purposefully built this place to be about food and entertainment. All forms of entertainment. My kind of man, since he has his priorities right..." When it came to fun ways to pass the time, he was all about either the lighthearted music-and-shows kind, or the intense and daring adventure kind. Either way, it was something exciting with which to occupy his time. Maybe someday he'd have to see about checking out this dangerous pit.
Now, he gazed around the room, until he noticed a good spot, a table that was fairly centralized, so they could be readily seen and heard. When it came to putting on any sort of show, you needed to take the best possible location. He pointed in that direction, heading over. "This'll do perfectly." Now, it was just a matter of taking out his bagpipes and assembling them, something he was well practiced with. He slid the chanter and drones into place on the bag alongside their various reeds, and lastly the blowpipe, getting everything quickly into position. The pipes themselves were in excellent shape, well-taken care of, and definitely made of very high quality material. Considering how he'd gotten them, they certainly would be, of course. He did some quick tuning to warm them up, then looked at Solstice. "Anything you fancy in particular? Something fast and lively, or more on the pensive side?"
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Jarovbees
Approved
Playing: Solstice (Paladin 6)/Umbrae (Sorcerer 1/Warlock 4)/Avren Wands (Rogue 2/Sorcerer 1)
Posts: 706
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Post by Jarovbees on Jun 1, 2019 3:07:51 GMT
Pushing away from the bar, Solstice glanced in the direction that Crispin indicated and appraised it herself. It didn't take but a moment for her to agree with an enthusiastic nod, preferring that central location. It was close to the well, but between her own skill and that of other familiar faces, she wasn't in the least concerned with whatever might try to climb out of it. Only something truly stupid would dare venture into a roomful of armed adventurers eager for action. "Excellent. I'm glad I came earlier; any later and another of the minstrels would likely have laid claim. But first come, first serve, eh? Let's do it."
As Solstice's birdpipes needed no assembling, the firbolg instead set down her shield and got comfortable. She hummed in thought and peered around the room, trying to gauge its mood. Between the adventuring folk with new gear and hope in their eyes, along with the stained gear of those who had obviously emerged from the well victorious not too long ago, the answer easily came to her as she lifted her instrument. "Fast and lively, to start with! Look at all this energy, these fine folk deserve to work off some it off. We should oblige, aye? 'Tis the neighborly thing to do."
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Post by vorpal on Jun 3, 2019 6:17:25 GMT
"Our timing was impeccable," Crispin agreed, as he glanced around. It had been some time since he'd swung by this place, so he didn't know the usual rotation of entertainers or anything, but he knew how it went, sometimes people had deals with the establishment, or whatnot. It seemed they had picked an open time though, which was perfect. If anything should come through and interrupt them, well... it would be a perfectly good tune interrupted, which would be unfortunate, on the one hand. On the other, it would be an amusing way to pass the time. So truly, any situation was worth it.
He grinned brightly at her recommendation. "I was hoping you'd say that! They need something to pick up their moods, or keep them in high spirits if they're already celebrating. A hero's welcome and all. I'll start, and you join in for the first one? I'll leave it to you to kick off what comes after that ends." She seems to know her stuff, after all, and if their flow turns out to be good, he's more than happy to trade off who picks what they'll do. "And if you're all right improvising, maybe we can get into that with something later, too." He was all for making it up as he went or bringing out something he'd written himself while out on the road. There was always something running through his head, although a lot of those tunes were still unfinished, just things he'd bring out now and then around a campfire.
For now though, a more familiar piece. He put the blowstick to his mouth and started in on a particularly upbeat tune, one that was exciting and written indeed for welcoming heroes home with great triumph. There were bound to be plenty of folk recognizing it, and it was definitely fun for birdpipes as well.
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Jarovbees
Approved
Playing: Solstice (Paladin 6)/Umbrae (Sorcerer 1/Warlock 4)/Avren Wands (Rogue 2/Sorcerer 1)
Posts: 706
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Post by Jarovbees on Jun 3, 2019 15:26:52 GMT
"Ah, improvisation is the spice of life. Music is alive, not meant to be played exactly the same way over and over again. Where's the fun in that?" As someone whose music lessons and jam sessions have always been about adaptation and putting a new spin on familiar tunes, Solstice was glad to see that Crispin was cut from a similar cloth. He didn't strike her as someone who stuck to the straight and narrow in anything, so his music reflecting that didn't surprise her in the least. It was a pleasant surprise, since she had already encountered a few musicians -bards- who despised that exact sort of thing. She couldn't help but pity them.
The firbolg listened attentively to Crispin's beginning, grasping the overall feel for the piece even though she couldn't remember hearing it before. Once she was certain of the melody and rhythm, it wasn't difficult to find her overall place in the tune. Flashing him a smile, Solstice then brought the birdpipes to her lips and accompanied him, matching his speed and providing a playful counterpoint, a musical dance of sorts. It was always a delight to team up with someone who knew what they were doing when it came to entertainment, and a birdpipe/bagpipe duo was rare enough to be a treat for her.
Other patrons in the taproom soon began to take notice, as the musical cheer spread their way. Some people began to clap or drum on their tables, matching the rhythm of the tune...some with better accuracy than others, depending on the state of inebriation. At least one couple couldn't remain seated and began a wild, lively dance in response, prompting a few others to join the floor...again, with varying degrees of success based on how much had been imbibed. The exact level of skill, or lack thereof, didn't bother Solstice in the least as she continued playing. The only thing that mattered was spreading cheer, and that they were most definitely accomplishing.
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Post by vorpal on Jun 18, 2019 4:44:16 GMT
The tune is a very lively one, something that takes unexpected twists and turns in melody, especially with a good bit of improvisation along the way. Crispin's eyes gleam as the birdpipes join the droning of the bagpipes, the two sounds mingling and mixing to create something totally new and unexpected. The fact that the whole room comes alive is a most excellent thing to see, exactly what he'd have hoped for. People are dancing, laughing, and one supremely drunken patron is singing some kind of made-up lyrics at the top of his lungs. They were quite lewd and funny alternate lyrics, really, quite appropriate to the occasion indeed!
Once the song swung along toward a climax and then a gradual ending, there was cheering and clapping. "More! More!" were the shouts echoed throughout the room, with the very drunk "singer" adding his agreement to the crowd. There was no disappointing a crowd like this, who were eager and in very bright spirits overall. So, naturally, Crispin was happy to oblige. He could do this all night, really. "Shall we give them what they wish?"
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Jarovbees
Approved
Playing: Solstice (Paladin 6)/Umbrae (Sorcerer 1/Warlock 4)/Avren Wands (Rogue 2/Sorcerer 1)
Posts: 706
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Post by Jarovbees on Jun 18, 2019 15:42:54 GMT
Solstice grinned in response to the cheers, claps and whistles sent their way. How could she refuse such a delightful and delighted audience? It was impossible, truly, not that she wanted to fight it. There was something addictive about making a room come alive through music, even more than being on the audience end of things. At times like this, she almost wondered if she should have become a bard instead. But the moment caught up with her and she nodded, eager to provoke such a response in the patrons once more. Durnan didn't seem to mind, the barkeep getting more orders and tips after the impromptu duet as spirits raised...prompting the desire for spirits of another sort. He wasn't as effusive as the rest of the audience, but sent them a nod of approval, which in his book was probably high praise.
"Aye, of course! I can't say I'll be around all night, but you have me for another song or two, easily." She winked at Crispin and took the lead this time, obliging with a tune no less lively and playful, though different in rhythm. The patrons soon caught on, some stamping their feet in time and another couple (buzzed but not quite inebriated) rising to dance. She could see Threestrings raising a glass to her and smiling, flashing his approval of their antics, and that warmed her heart as much as the rhythmic clapping. A group of adventurers, clearly getting ready to head down the well, even paused their soon-to-be epic adventure in order to enjoy the festivities, which the firbolg took as the greatest victory. Few things mattered more to thrill-seekers than the dangers of Undermountain and for them to forgo it willingly even for a brief amount of time was significant. Such was the power of a little impromptu concert, and Solstice already countered her fellow performer a friend; battle wasn't the only way to forge a bond, and she felt that keenly tonight.
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Post by vorpal on Jul 4, 2019 7:31:27 GMT
The atmosphere was upbeat and jovial, full of laughter, drinks and dancing. Crispin easily picked up on the rhythm of Solstice's next selection, flashing a quick grin before he put his lips to the pipes to join in. The pipes soared and danced with music together, their notes perfectly complementing one another. He was definitely finding her to be wonderful accompaniment. Playing solo could be fun in its ways, but he always preferred duets and ensembles far more, as there was so much more that a song could become with more than one part being played. Many a night around a campfire had ended up memorable if only for the music that had been shared. Their melodies wove together with such ease right now, it was just glorious. Finding another good improvisor was also a great stroke of luck, really, too.
It went on for a good while... once one tune ended, there was another, and another. There would come a point soon enough when they wrapped up, but until that point, Crispin reveled in the joy of the music. Indeed so, to him, performing in any way together was a perfect way to get to know someone. He could also tell he would be able to count on Solstice as a friend.
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Jarovbees
Approved
Playing: Solstice (Paladin 6)/Umbrae (Sorcerer 1/Warlock 4)/Avren Wands (Rogue 2/Sorcerer 1)
Posts: 706
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Post by Jarovbees on Jul 4, 2019 16:44:18 GMT
It had been a while since Solstice had a good, lengthy jam session like this, and she savored every moment. She was used to sharing a tune here or there with someone, preferably more than one but sometimes timing didn't allow for it. Other obligations always had their way of interfering, and though she didn't begrudge them, a lull to allow for more light and laughter filled her heart. Her blue eyes twinkled as they met Crispin's own, playing just a little faster as something of a challenge for him to keep up. Knowing him, it was something he would appreciate and respond in kind.
One more song and then another, and another. Solstice kept telling herself just one more, savoring the companionship and light and laughter as long as possible. Time seemed to stop still, as though the world only revolved around their music and the crowd cheering them on or clapping along to their music. If she didn't have somewhere else she needed to be tonight, it would be easy to let that moment throughout the evening, until the bar closed and it was time for the pleasantly buzzed patrons to stagger home with the melodies still on their lips and in their hearts.
But...she knew better. There was a home with a boy who needed her, and deserved a steady adult figure in his life. That was the deal she made when she'd agreed to move in, that he wouldn't be alone. There was already a hint of an apology as she smiled at Crispin, leaning down to make herself heard above the din of the patrons. "I hate to say it, but it really is 'just one more' this time. Always leave them wanting more, aye? We've done energetic and playful and mischievous, how about something nostalgic and sappy? Something to make even the hardest among them tear up? That's a worthy challenge, too." Tears were nothing to be shunned, in her opinion, and if they could coax such feelings from their audience, then surely that would be a testament to their skill.
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Post by vorpal on Jul 23, 2019 16:09:23 GMT
Time passed differently when in the midst of playing or performing. It seemed to stretch on endlessly, and at the same time, like an eyeblink it was all too quickly over. He savored every moment, especially having the company of someone who could keep up with him. Her skill level definitely met with his approval, as she could readily improvise and turn their song into something new, something never heard before and never to be heard again. A good show like this was its own magic, truly.
Crispin nodded in understanding, figuring he could then close the night out with a couple of drinks. He was used to people coming and going, and indeed he was that very person, when out on the road. You joined and played together, in tune for those fleeting moments, and then you were off on your way. So an end to the duet, while unfortunate, was bound to have to happen sooner or later. They could hardly keep playing in their sleep, either, after all.
"Then let it be so. You'll soon be yearning and pining like you've never yearned and pined before. Ah, I know just the thing... how about..." He paused a moment to adjust the pipes and then started out with a quiet, solemn little melody that soon faded, only to re-emerge again, always returning like a wistful memory that just couldn't be shaken.
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Jarovbees
Approved
Playing: Solstice (Paladin 6)/Umbrae (Sorcerer 1/Warlock 4)/Avren Wands (Rogue 2/Sorcerer 1)
Posts: 706
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Post by Jarovbees on Jul 23, 2019 19:11:14 GMT
Solstice listened with a yearning in her eyes and a wistful smiled curved her lips before she nodded. "Ah, there we go. You read my mind...." She didn't know the exact notes he was going to play, of course, but the soul of it might as well have emerged from her own dreams. Lifting her birdpipes back up to her lips, the firbolg elaborated on the quiet, solemn melody. The soft, ethereal tune emerging spoke of good times past that were never to be recreated again, of the enchantment and wonder forever just out of reach, of absent friends and the bittersweet nature of coming into one's own but losing the innocence of youth. She preferred merrier tunes as a matter of course, trying to shine light where she could...but there was beauty in places of pain as well, and a comfort to be offered.
The gathered patrons seemed to agree, at least to some extent, since a hush fell over even the rowdier folk. Those more easily moved were soon blinking back tears or seemed about to shed them, while even the more hardened or less emotive folk listened pensively. There was no accompanying clapping or dancing this time, but the audience's attention was snared all the same. More than one hide their face or quietly departed as the music continued, perhaps unwilling to put their emotions on display. The fact that it touched them all the same was enough for Solstice, she didn't need to see the tears personally.
She began to wind them toward a conclusion, glancing at Crispin and leaving her melody open for his interpretation of it to take her somewhere beautiful.
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Post by vorpal on Jul 30, 2019 4:56:49 GMT
It was truly the kind of melody that one could get lost in. Naturally, Crispin found himself daydreaming as he played, channelling thoughts and memories of places and people of long ago, of times and places there was no return to, of distant faded loves. It was truly something, how music could transform a whole room. Everyone was wrapped up in it, in some way or another, whether they were outwardly emotional or just quietly pensive.
The music soared to an ending, swelling up into a sound that had the same sort of final gasp of beauty as a sunset... a few last haunting notes before it slowly drifted off into silence. It was pure perfection, too, that little bit of quiet as things ended, with everyone in the room still captivated for a few moments before they returned to the present. Ah, he definitely lived for this, the way a performance could completely take an audience to another place entirely. The stunned silence was soon broken, as someone started up a round of applause, soon enough joined in by more and more patrons until the whole room erupted. Crispin grinned and gave an enthusiastic bow.
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Jarovbees
Approved
Playing: Solstice (Paladin 6)/Umbrae (Sorcerer 1/Warlock 4)/Avren Wands (Rogue 2/Sorcerer 1)
Posts: 706
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Post by Jarovbees on Jul 30, 2019 16:41:07 GMT
By the time those last notes drifted off into silence, even Solstice's eyes were suspiciously bright. She lowered her birdpipes as thunderous applause enveloped them, giving way to a grin and a bow as well. When patrons started shouting offers to buy them drinks, the firbolg shook her head even as her good humor remailed. "None for me this time, I'm taking off. But please spoil my new friend here, eh? A duet is only as good as their partner and I was blessed to have a fine one tonight. Take care of him for me, aye?"
With that, Solstice turned to Crispin and offered her relatively large hand with a wink. "Beautiful work there, Crispin. I hope to be seeing you around here again, and if you've a need for an encore, you have but to ask. Mind-reading duet partners aren't always easy to find, at least for me."
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