• PM To Join • [Elyari's Hope] Sing For Your Supper (Kayleigh)

[Valeria Burhan]

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Afternoon, 14th Cylus 718

A lil inspiration

It's more for the tone and the sound than the actual lyrics. Gimme the haunting music!

Since her return to Andaris, the Burhan hadn't had a great deal of opportunity to work. The weather had initially been against her, the snowstorm that blew in confining all of them to shelter rather than risk their lives to the vicious chill and the biting ice and snow. After that, she'd made relevant enquiries of course, made sure that potential clients - both high and low - were aware that she was in the city and ready to perform for them. She'd had a few trials without such labours but now she was back at work, especially after the exciting adventures she'd had only yestertrial. To-trial would be a far more sober affair although the young woman wouldn't be bored. Given that the young woman had the opportunity to devote herself to Zanik, she could call it both a worthwhile and enjoyable use of her time.

The work that had fallen into her lap was at Elyari's Hope. The restaurant was one that had two methods of dining: fine dining inside and casual dining outside. Given the current cool weather, the place wasn't likely to be operating the outside part and thus, she assumed that she was meant to sing indoors. As such, she'd chosen to wear the new purple chiffon dress that she'd purchased at Ericor's before she went to Senlin the previous season. It was well put together but not overly formal so she thought it would do for the fine dining setting while allowing her to show some flesh.

However, when she arrived, she discovered that the outside part was operational. The staff had brought out some portable fire pits made of some black metal and piled high with wood so that they burned hotly, carefully insulated so that the chill air didn't threaten to extinguish the flames within. They'd been carefully arranged with the intention of heating the outdoor area so that customers could indulge in the more casual service that was on offer. Bundled up in her warm cloak, it was here that she discovered she was supposed to work. The blonde managed to smile and be courteous, allowing herself to be placed by one of these heat sources, the light playing across her face in a way that gave her a halo of light that was none too different from what she possessed when she put her Elithem abilities to use.

She examined her reflection in her small hand mirror, pleased with the lighting, especially in these trying times when people were apparently inclined to find mages everywhere. She tilted her head to ensure that the subtle make-up that she'd utilised still looked good. Her lips were the only thing that stood out, painted a vibrant red that she knew would make them stand out, especially when she opened them to sing.

Huddling over the heater, she tried to find the best position to stand in so she could make the most of its warmth. She removed her cloak, trying not to shudder too much when portions of her flesh were bared. As she gone to the effort of wearing it, it made sense that she should show off her figure rather than remaining bundled up. If it got too cold for her then she could always cover up again.

Her purpose was to provide entertainment to those who sat outside but also to attract new customers in. People weren't allowed to linger unless they were giving the place custom and so if they wanted to listen, it was hoped that they'd stay and buy something. The noblewoman was a lure and a willing one. She was more than happy to be the bait on this occasion, especially as it would bring more people to worship at her feet and thus, by virtue of her being his servant, at Zanik's feet.

Closing her eyes, she thought of the Immortal, remembering the feel of his lips on her face the night that he'd marked her. She held onto that memory, that connection and prayed silently.

Zanik, if you choose to pay attention to me then know that I will sing and draw others to me. I will perform for you, I will seduce for you and even if these Rynlists don't know who you are, they will feel your influence. Make me stronger, make me better, make me irresistible, she prayed, softly pressing her fingers to her lips, well aware that they'd be stained in the process by the red that coated her mouth. She clenched the hand into a fist, placed it by her side while the other pressed lightly against her diaphragm.

She took a deep breath, inflating her lungs while she did her best to ignore the cold that managed to find gaps in the fire pit's coverage. She let air out again with a hum, allowing her vocal cords to warm and loosen. She drew the hum from deep within her, bringing the quiet but deep sound from deep in her chest cavity, almost feeling it beneath the hand at the top of her abdomen. When she'd allowed her singing apparatus to warm up, she began to sing. She chose an old folk song, the sound soft but haunting. Even though her voice wasn't well trained, she concentrated on putting a soft vibrating tone to her voice for each note that she sang. As she did so, she imagined that the kiss on her hand - her physical reminder of her link with Zanik - tingled, drawing on her abilities within her. Valeria chose Musical Enchantment, allowing her to inject an awe-inspiring quality to her voice, infusing the song with it. She imagined that it was something that would make those in her range be filled with deep longing, to hunger for the music or her while in her presence, a sentiment that wouldn't linger when they moved away. It was all she could do to draw them in, hope that they'd get a taste and want more. The singer knew that she couldn't use Mesmorize: it wasn't an ability that worked with more than one person at a time.

All the same, she tried. She instilled an allure to her singing, beckoning people to draw nearer while trying to jump between targets. All it succeeded in doing was give her a headache. Valeria could only hope that she was alluring enough as it was.

[Kayleigh]

Of all the places she's recently discovered in Andaris, Elyari's Hope had to be one of her actual favorites to come and visit. Probably because she enjoyed their style, and how they liked to change up the menu every once in a while. To-trial as the night of Cylus seemed blanketed with more clouds and snow, Kayleigh decided to pay a visit to enjoy a late trial meal. She was definitely tired of snow and ready to lose the cold weather, but when she noticed that there were fire pits brought outside she smiled. Evidently the cold wouldn't keep others from enjoying the weather. Kayleigh proceeded inside and when asked if she'd like a seat inside, she gently shook her head with a soft smile towards the waiter.

"Not to-trial, I'll be enjoying my meal outside." With that made clear the waiter nodded and guided her towards the table that would be her's, thankfully right next to one of the spare fire pits as well to keep extra warm. Once situated in her chair she asked for whatever special they had that day, and allowed the waiter to proceed with that order inside as she got a bit more comfortable. With her coat pulled off and left to rest against the back of her chair, Kayleigh brushed off her tunic at the sleeves and rolled them back a little. She had to admit she didn't expect to be this comfortably warm, since she wore her under-dress for another layer of heat. With her pack rested next to the chair she sat in, Kayleigh sat down with a gentle sigh to follow her relief. It felt good to get off her feet and sit down every so often, especially when she walked or moved around a lot.

Given the fact she'd recently been more involved with learning about Andaris, her efforts in familiarizing herself with the place were somewhat fruitful. She'd come to learn much of the city's transgressions and of the people, why they disliked mages so much as well, and Kayleigh even put herself out there to shovel snow as well. Just the mere memory made her muscles ache once more, but it felt good to show she was a capable sort compared to others. Not long after she became settled another who arrived after her did the same, a woman with a vibrant violet dress that definitely seemed unfit for wintry temperature. Still Kayleigh grinned when she noticed her and soon after, found herself deeply intrigued by the dulcet tone of her vocals.

Somehow the lady exuded a sort of aura that drew people in, her voice heard in gentle hums first before the song truly began. The smile on Kay's lips faded as she felt herself drawn in deeper, eyes lulled shut as she felt practically entranced by the song. It was never often Kayleigh found another drawing her in with beautiful music, and this one in particular did it a manner most unusual to Kayleigh in fact. It was as if the notes of her tone were enticed her, drew her attention in further as she sat there waiting for her food to arrive. Normally Kayleigh liked to believe she could hear music naturally, through her perception of the world when she felt inspired more or less. This was different however, much different in comparison.

Her eyes finally opened once more Kay felt herself inspired and eager to join in, her body in a leftward lean as she sought her pack at her feet. When she rummaged through her things, she found the wooden harp that usually remained inside when she went places. Typically because when moments like this would occur, she'd already have an instrument on hand to help portray her own thoughts into the strings. The harp brought to her side Kayleigh rose from her chair and approached the woman, more or so indirectly so she wouldn't through the lady off as she continued to sing. When Kay stood a couple feet from her side, she held the harp up with one arm into her shoulder and close to her face. With her eyes once more closed she allowed her mind to relax, to drown out all the world with just the sound of the singer's voice.

Soft but merry, definitely inviting but just with a somber touch. Kay felt the cold air deeply fill her lungs as one of her fingers rested on a string, and sure enough she pulled the cords in a soft manner. With the arrangement of notes she created she tried to match the tune, and compliment it with the gentle sound of her harp as others started to notice the union of their sound. It was more than likely the lady herself drawing in all the attention, but of course Kayleigh did her best to enjoy and compliment the style of singing this woman displayed.

[Valeria Burhan]

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The young woman tried to spread her allure but if her Memorize ability had any effect, she was certain that it jumped between individuals, affecting one here or there. Perhaps it only affected one, unable to shift its focus. The blonde couldn't be certain of any of it; all she could do was sing. The Burhan let her voice rise and fall, moving through a selection of notes, modulating her volume so that certain parts were softer while others were louder, given emphasis. It took concentration and her voice was inclined to slip at certain points, the odd wrong note coming from her during the more strenuous parts. Valeria could have paused or faltered when she made an error but instead, she soldiered on bravely.

Initially, her singing led her to close her eyes, focused internally. Her mind stayed on the power she was imbuing into her lyrics, focusing on controlling her voice so she could sing effectively as well. However, after a few bits, she allowed her eyes to open so she could gain a notion of how her audience were reacting. Had she drawn more people to her? Did her existing audience seem content? Was her singing loud enough to carry but soft enough not to disturb?

It was while her soft brown gaze moved over the scene before her that she saw the other woman approach. The movement caught at the edge of her gaze, the customer approaching by a less than direct route. Valeria assumed that she merely intended to bypass her, not wanting to put the singer off but instead, it appeared that she was coming to join her. Her own false notes hadn't made her falter but the sight of the brunette made her pause. Her voice trailed off, honey turning to a curious blue-grey as she tried to comprehend what was happening. Had this one been affected by Memorize? Had she quite literally drawn this girl to her? Had Valeria succeeded in using her Zanik-given gifts to bring the woman to her?

It sent a thrill of panic through her, the young woman worried that her abilities had had unexpected consequences. It wasn't until she spotted the harp that her thoughts on the matters shifted. She was no longer panicked but confused, at least until the other began to trail her fingers over the strings, making a sweet music to accompany her own. A musician. She hadn't been drawn to her like a moth to a flame, not in the conventional sense at least. It wasn't a blind pull to simply approach. The noblewoman had succeeded in inspiring the other. It reminded her of when she'd worked with Darcy but that hadn't been spontaneous - this was.

It took some effort to throw herself properly back into the song again. She didn't want to be distracted but once she got into it again, allowed that flow to resume, it was easier. The accompaniment offered an anchor for her. The steady thrums allowed her to keep her own voice steady, to adjust her notes and harmonise with it. She mirrored some of the sounds she was hearing, her voice almost an echo of the instrument, or maybe it was the other way around. In terms of her Elithem abilities, she took a new tack, drawing on musical enchantment, instilling a certain fervour into the subliminal level of her voice.

Let them feel. Let them be caught up. Perhaps she was hoping to entice the woman beside her just a bit more and so she was pleased to switch to a new song. A ballad, more romantic and passionate than her previous one. Not so passionate that she was loud but one that matched the feelings she was trying to transmit as she glowed softly before her audience. Now that she'd brought this woman out of the woodwork, Valeria wasn't content to entertain in the background; she wanted attention and damn well intended to get it!

[Kayleigh]

Kayleigh said nothing when she approached the side of the woman with harp in hand, just softly smiled to her with a gentle nod before she started. When she played she did so first to compliment the woman's voice, to promote the effect of emotion within her tone if at all possible. Not that Kayleigh needed to really, the lady certainly did an excellent job of that herself already. Kay however found inspiration in her voice though, and therefore motivated to promote it through her music.

It literally felt like magic to hear the woman sing, which made it easy to play for her anyways. Yet the real challenge was trying to make sure her tune complimented the song, since Kay had to not only listen but match vocal range with notes from her harp. She felt such vivid emotion in the song when she slowed her play a little, determining what sort of arrangement she should pull together now that the song has changed. It had become a ballad of gallant love and intense passion, a song that could move artists and lovers alike for those who listened.

Kayleigh took in a breath and held it for a moment as she memorized the strings of her harp, more so the notes she could make with them to attempt a better harmony. Yet the songstress next to her sung so high and brilliantly that it felt nearly impossible to keep up, a discouragement which Kayleigh refused to bow down to. It wasn't in any sense competition on her part, but a fulfilling role in supporting this lady's voice as she sang. The instrument player focused more on the melody of the song, rather than the words that came from the songstress near her.

For a moment she thought she felt Zanik Himself speaking through the woman, entrancing those with the song that carried out to the crowds. Oh yes. People were watching now and they all watched curiously, intrigued by the duo that had come together so suddenly. Pressure was on then but Kay had enough performances before, enough to know that pressure wasn't an obstacle she needn't worry about. Her fingers moved for the strings with higher notes, combined with a few of the lower ones to compliment the tune of the song. Her fingers moved and plucked delicately as she swayed to the music now, her posture completely relaxed as she felt herself melted into the song entirely.

And then finally once that song came to pass, so too did the music from her harp as their audience gave applause. With harp tucked in between elbow and rib, Kayleigh also proceeded to applaud their star of the show. "Truly a marvelous performance, I'd never been so inspired in my life." She complimented wholeheartedly with a smile to the songstress. "Where are my manners?! My name's Kayleigh, or just Kay if you like. Your voice as well as song is beautiful to hear, I'm truly glad I had this chance to play for you."

[Valeria Burhan]

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As Valeria sang, the harp providing a sweet and melodious accompaniment, it was easy to put herself into the song. Love wasn't a concept that the blonde believed in but she could see how the idea of it could be appealing, especially when there was no attempt to make it a pure concept, detached from passion and lust. The Burhan might not love, but she definitely had a certain fire within her when it came to her relationships, a fire that could be injected into her words. For the most part, the song was lively and suited her personality fine but when she needed to sing softer parts, more attuned to adoration and tenderer feelings, it was harder for her to do. When she got to such places, she concentrated on Zanik, drawing forth a memory that might well be the only true love she'd ever experienced.

Once more, it was her eighteenth birth-trial, clasped in the arms of the handsome, slightly scruffy seeming young man who'd asked her to dance. He'd been charming, the attention he'd paid her seeming to embody everything that she sang about in those softer moments. She could remember the touch of his hand on her face, the whisper of his lips on her cheek. It made her wistful, an emotion that entered her vocals, allowing her to trail off softly, giving a quiet sigh before she dropped a shallow curtsy. It allowed her audience to know that her performance was over - for now at least - and they burst into enthusiastic applause at the signal.

She favoured them with a gracious smile, although beneath it, she was smug about the response she'd elicited. If she hadn't had Musical Enchantment then they probably would have still clapped, albeit politely rather than with any true appreciation. She preferred this.

Now that she was no longer singing and no longer seeding the emotions of those around her, the blonde felt the swell of gratitude within her, intensified by her recent reliving of Zanik's marking of her. Full of the intense euphoria of what she'd just bestowed on others and her thankfulness, she closed her eyes to offer a brief heartfelt prayer to the Immortal of Music, thanking him for the abilities that he'd bestowed upon her. Perhaps it would seem as if she was having a moment's respite, pleased with her endeavour as a slight smile curved her lips.

When the other woman spoke, it gave her a jolt, lost in her happy reverie as she'd been. However, she smiled broadly, pleased with the praise although she knew that it wasn't entirely her doing. Still, there was no need to mention such a thing. It was always best to appear to be a pure Rynlist until it was absolutely necessary. Thus, she turned to Kayleigh, giving her thanks as she she patted down her blonde hair, ensuring that no strand was out of place.

"I'm Lady Valeria Burhan. Val or V is perfectly fine though," the young woman explained, her expression indulgent as if she'd just given the other a boon that she thought would be viewed as a kindness. "I really have to thank you. A solo voice just isn't the same without accompaniment but needs must, you understand. An instrument really gives my voice a polish that it wouldn't otherwise have. I'm glad that you were inspired. I've been told from time to time that I have that sort of effect on others."

When she smiled this time, it was secretive, enjoying a piece of hidden knowledge at Kayleigh's expense. "I'm sure that you'll want to get back to what you were doing before. I'm sure you didn't come here to work. I can have a little break, a little chat before I have to sing again but I don't want to keep you."

[Kayleigh]

Kayleigh's appreciation for the lady's talent had been genuine, if not enthusiastic, and seemed to surprise the singer in expressing it. She had to consider that maybe her energy from the inspiration might've been too vibrant for a moment, but seemed able to relax now that the songstress returned the exchange of words. Valeria Burhan. A name Kayleigh wouldn't be forgetting anytime soon to be sure, rather warmly she smiled to the lady and nodded once more in respect.

"Even then my part was minor, I was thrilled to be able to play for you." She admitted softly with humbled eyes laid upon the lady. Valeria, or Val, seemed to be popular from the sounds of it, if the songstress's own voice was captivating enough to allure such attention. For a moment all Kay could really do was just stand there, admiring the lady in a star struck sense until she realized what she realized had to be an awkward moment. She had things to do? Since when? Kayleigh didn't remember having any real plans right of the bat, maybe later after she enjoyed her meal but nothing so soon.

"Oh, that's alright! I was just about to have a late lunch... I think?" Cylus had never been the best time to keep track of, obviously, time what with the lack of the sun. "I'd be delighted to share a table with you, that is unless you had other appointments to keep?" She checked with a little insecurity, not wanting to impose on the songstress's schedule if she had other places to sing at.

Off Topic

Wowee, sorry this post was so delayed and not very lengthy. Been a bit since I've had to jump back to Cylus material. q.q

[Valeria Burhan]

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The young woman glowed from the praise. Sure, this girl had played beautifully but it was Valeria who had prompted the action in the first place. Zanik had aided it and for that she was grateful to the Immortal. She was ready to open her heart and mind to him, to heap thanks upon him. She was almost ready to drop to her knees and sing his praises to the sky. Instead, she had to make do with silently praying, unable to provide him with his true due while she was socialising. As lovely as it was to have someone fawning over her, appreciating her talents, it was always wise to respect her patron. Besides, if she dawdled with this musician then she'd be inclined to stay socialising, a weakness of hers, especially when she had such an adoring fan. Irritating her employers wasn't the best of plans so she'd have to make it quick.

"I... can sit with you very briefly although it depends how long it takes for me to get some food and something to drink. Best that I don't dawdle. Give me a couple of bits," she told her with a smile before moving into the building. She was fairly sure that the owners would allow her to have something simple to eat while she was working and so she left a request in with them, grabbing a glass of water which she downed before heading to the simple washroom. There she took the time to reflect in silence for a few bits, to allow Zanik to know how grateful she was.

"Zanik, thank you for the gifts you've given me. Thank you for the power you've allowed me to wield. Without you, I know that my talents would not be as great but I have done all I can to serve you. I have made music with another on this trial, seduced a musician with my voice in your name. Than you for what you've given me and accept my own gifts in return," she prayed, hands clasped together while she sent off a silent communication that she hoped that he'd hear.

When she was ready, she left the washroom, hurrying back to eat her food before she rushed back outside. She gave a nod of acknowledgement to Kayleigh and an apologetic smile; she would not be joining her. Instead, she resumed her former place, lungs filling with air once more as she got ready to sing to her Lord, filled with a new energy as the soft golden aura enveloped her again.