Private - Gold and Silver [18+]

Time had passed and the scars left by the war had begun to heal. There was still a lot of work to be done but the most troublesome period had passed. People had scrounged up whatever food they could find while those with the required skills went out to hunt more. Wood and stone had been stockpiled and then used to rebuild the walls and other structures which had been damaged. The war had left its marks, brief as it was, but the city of Vintergard, formerly known as Dormont, had survived and had wasted no time in getting back on its feet. Not all of Astorean had been quite as fortunate, but thankfully due to D'Vangelline's interference everyone had been given enough warning in advance that anyone who hadn't gotten to safety in time either had been extremely unfortunate or simply unwilling to abandon their home, which meant that a large portion of the population had survived. Large enough to rebuild the broken villages and the razed farms.

But they had managed, even in the midst of winter. The players had helped a lot, using their abilities to help rebuild and make sure everyone was fed, showing inventive use of their masteries. However the people of this world had also shown impressive work: the players could never have accomplished all what had been done, as the people of Terra not only had numbers but also grit, determination and the power born from necessity. The players could escape to their own world: these people wouldn't give up because there would be little left for them if they gave up. Even those who had given up had mostly been pulled up by those who were still going strong.

Which meant that now that things had gotten better again it was time for people to begin enjoying themselves again. Instead of only focusing on the invasion which had done so much damage, had taken so many lives, people were doing things because they wanted to do them again, not because they had no other choice. They no longer needed to spend their days tending to the wounded, or rebuilding, or hunting for whatever food was still left. They could return to their professions, they could go out and hang out together, they could plan big things now that things were peaceful once more.

And of course, they could go to the tavern and feast and drink together with friends and strangers, enjoying the fact that they were still alive. Horrible things may have happened, some scars had been carved that would never heal, lives had been lost that couldn't be returned... but they were still alive, and the dead wouldn't want them to act like they were amongst the dead as well. So they would enjoy themselves, both for their own sake and for those lost. It may sound excessive for something as simple as going to the tavern, but it was true.

In this particular tavern near the outskirts of Vintergard there was another form of entertainment beyond food, drink and good company. All the people in the tavern could hear it, even if not quite every one of them was paying full attention to it. Amidst the sound of chewing, gulping, talking and laughing there was the clear and pure sound of a flute, whistling through the air in a fast and merry tune that made it difficult for one to not move their feet while listening to it. It was a tune which suited the idea that now was the time for people to be alive and to enjoy themselves, and it came from an unusual sight as well: a Felis with pure white hair and fur, the hair reaching all the way to the ground and the tail long and lustrous. Long and slender, with her eyes closed as she danced in a little open area, amidst the crowd, her feet nimbly moving. The dance was very simple, more of a pattern than a complex performance, but it served to accompany the music, as the Felis played her happy song.

Vina had decided to spend some time enjoying herself in a tavern, and since there was a large audience that meant that she would be enjoying herself with a performance. The air of the tavern was thick and hot, but she didn't care as she just kept playing, her hair swirling around her in accordance with her movements while her tail happily swayed from side to side. With her Harmonic Magic mastery her music possessed more than just beautiful sound: it filled the air with its own special magic, one which affected the atmosphere and made sure that everyone who entered the tavern would be able to feel the joy and the happiness, emanating from Vina like a beacon as she did her best to make sure everyone was enjoying themselves as much as she was. There was some sweat on her pale skin due to the heat, but she didn't mind: with some skill and experience one could even look good while sweating, and Vina did it by making it clear that she was sweating because of the enthusiasm with which she was weaving the happy song.

The people of the tavern certainly were appreciating it, as those who weren't busy with something else were clapping along and stomping their feet, some of them even dancing as they found some room for themselves and their comrades. Vina smiled even as she kept playing, riding the joyous atmosphere even as she herself was the one to amplify and exaggerate it. Bad things might have happened before due to misfortune, but right now they were all alive and enjoying themselves, and she was someone who put enjoyment as one of the highest virtues. If one didn't enjoy being alive it was a sad thing, so she would keep trying to make sure she and everyone else who had survived the war would remain happy. Once she was done with the song with the flute she'd sing as well, since it'd been a while since she got to do that without it being related to some kind of magic in a stressful situation.

@Ilya

 

The war was something on the tips of everyone's tongues. The war that depending on who you were and who you were around, was won. The lion herself had not taken part in the war at all, instead rather relying on the numerous amounts of rumors that went around about the events that had happened during the war. The tale of King Theodore de Falder. He had been rather vocal in the requests he sent of the players. Encouraging them to take part in the battle. Even going so far as to send a sneak attack to the enemy. The three big guild leader being part of the sneak attack. During the very sneak attack that King Theodore had sent out, they had decided to switch sides and help out with the Yladdian elves. The betrayal of Falderean..

All the events of the war leading up to claiming the Adecus Forest and renaming it to Astorea were imperative in the lore of the people. Shortly following was the assassination of King Theodore de Falder.. The mad king, thus ending his violent reign. All of the events that players took part in, forming history for the land of Terrasphere.

Ilya was of course politely listening to a gossiping old man that had approached her in the tavern she was in. He was speaking of how brave he had been, staying instead of leaving like Princess D'vangelline had urged. He had somehow survived the countless attacks and traps. It was with the gossiping man that Ilya heard the warmth of the flute coming from outside. Ilya's ears perked as she sat up in her chair, tuning the poor old man out.

Her hand fluttered upwards as she held out her finger. "I have to go.. Sorry." It took not a single doubt in her mind as the sound of the chair scrapping against the wooden floor sounded. Ilya swiftly placed the gold for her untouched drink and exited the building, following the sound of the music.

The cool air bit against Ilya's nose as she exited the warmth of the building, the sound still muffled.. Coming from another building. The footsteps that Ilya took were unheard as she swiftly made her way to the origin of the sweet sound.

The door opening as she reached it, her eyes falling on the sight of a dancing white-haired Felis. A beautiful and intricate flute was placed near her mouth as she created warm and inviting sounds. The sound of clapping hands and dancing feet was sounding throughout the whole building. Ilya herself watched the Felis dance. Her feet urging herself to move to the rhythm, reminding her of a choreography that she had learned for one of her many music videos.

It took her not long before she stood near the white haired Felis. Her tail swaying to the music and her ears slanted downwards in content. Without warning her feet began to move. Matching the rhythm, moving with the music as the various choreography combined in her mind, making her body move.

 

With an appreciative audience, a room full of life and joyful activity, and the opportunity to play to her heart's content Vina could say with certainty that her time in the tavern was a time well spent. Of course she was aware that the audience wasn't completely focused on her music alone, which meant that some of their approval didn't actually count as praise of her musical skill. However there was enough enthusiasm for the music she was producing that she didn't mind if some of the people in the tavern just wanted to ogle, especially since so far as she was concerned being ogled was also a form of praise.

As she played she at first had her eyes closed, to better focus on her fingers and her ears, so she could better move her fingers along the flute and could judge the quality of the music she was producing and if necessary adjust her performance on the fly. It wasn't necessary, but Vina often found it easier to immerse herself in the music if she closed her eyes so her vision didn't distract her from the sound and the touch. Because of that it took her a little while before she realized that someone of more interest had joined the group. In fact it took until Ilya began to dance that Vina noticed, opening her azure eyes to look at this new arrival.

Vina was hardly unique as a Felis, but most of the inhabitants of Vintergard were still Human, with some Yladians mixed in. So another Felis was a pleasant sight... although Vina was more interested in this specific Felis. She was quite the attractive woman, with beautiful long golden hair that swirled in a manner similar to Vina's own pure white hair as Ilya danced. Her hair was also very long: most people in this world had relatively short hair for practical purposes. It was mainly players who kept their hair long, and even amongst those there were few with hair as long as Ilya's, and there was almost no-one whose hair was long enough to reach the ground, as Vina's did. In the light of the torches that helped keep the tavern lit that impressive golden curtain glowed and shone, which helped draw Vina's attention.

But there was also the woman's face and figure, which both also gained very high scores in Vina's opinion. Ilya was quite a bit shorter than Vina, but she still looked like she was about Vina's own age, and like Vina had benefited from good genes (well, inside the game it was more a case of good design). She wasn't one of those female players whose appearance was that of a curvaceous bombshell, but she had a nicely athletic form, and she still had quite the nice curves. And her face... large eyes, a cute nose and a mouth which looked like it was meant for smiling. Although one of the most alluring things was the furred round ears adorning her head and the tail with the dark tuft moving behind her. Most Felis looked like their feline parts belonged to housecats. It was a strange sight for a Felis to have the traits of a lion. Were there any 'natural' Felis with those kind of traits? Or would lion traits make it clear that it's a player and not a native of this world?

Either way, Vina was happy that she had attracted the attention of this Felis, because she was quite the looker and beyond that looked like a fun person to be friends with. The fact that she so naturally danced along to Vina's tune made it even better. The white Felis kept playing her song, the music flowing through the air even as Vina's feet kept moving. However she now was also changing locations, subtly moving towards Ilya while mixing the steps into her dancing. It was only when she had reached Ilya that she reached out with her tail, running it along Ilya's hip while winking at her and making a small motion with her head towards the open area in which Vina had previously been standing in the middle, all the while continuing to play. She wanted to see if this golden lioness of a Felis was willing to join Vina more openly, the white Felis trying to invite Ilya to come dance next to her as Vina kept entertaining all who were willing to listen with her flute and her feet... and her figure, of course.

 

The simple, yet elegant way that the fox looking Felis moved her fingers as they cascaded around the exterior of her instrument was hard not to look at as the lion looking Felis had began to dance. The clear and intricate sound echoing through the tavern, setting any sane person to begin to shuffle or "bop" to the sound of the music that the fox was producing. The very look of the fox seemed calming and captivating. The flow of the music made Ilya's body twist and move in ways only known to her. The feeling that resided in the pit of her stomach, protruding through her body movements. The lion like tail that was attached to her bottom was moving in perfect synchronization to her body. Without a single flick of the tail or ears out of place, Ilya's body told a story.

The dancing left Ilya's mind to wander as she moved without needing to think on her actions. Her violet colored eyes continuing to score through Vina's figure. The pure and innocent colored hair, reaching and touching the floor. Her slender body was quite a bit taller than Ilya's small and short body. One thing that stood out was the fact that Ilya had the gut feeling about this girl.. As if her life would change through meeting this girl. Ilya was unsure what it would be, but she definitely was looking forward to it. The collywobbles, fluttering in her stomach, much like butterflies as she wondered what would be the effect of getting to know the fox Felis who produced the clear and beautiful sounds.

The azure eyes that had thus opened, sent more chills down Ilya's spine as her body continued to move to the beat. The thoughts of the white fox seemed to be removed as a small NPC shifted towards Ilya and began to clap to the beat, with the eyes on her. Just as Ilya's body moved, her right hand flowing gracefully to her left hand, her fingers gently (yet to the beat) running along her arm, across her shoulder and chest, before whipping back out in a straight motion. Her body still dancing and moving to the music as the one move initiated a bunch of others.

Ilya's violet eyes closed until the feeling of a fluffed tail stroking along the bare skin above her skirt. Her "hip". The fluttering of eyelashes could be seen as the lavender orbs shifted to meet the azure ones of the fox. The small wink that was sent towards her before the slight nod of the fox's head caused Ilya to follow behind Vina. Her body still moving to the beat of the music. Her figure expressing herself as a person. The sound of the music setting an impulse through the body, blood and veins of Ilya. The very impulse was urging the lion to sing. Ignoring the impulse set Ilya's body afire, but the sounds of the flute seemed to be beginning to wrap up, setting Ilya's ignoring into motion.

The two Felis were now standing in the middle as they were dancing together. The emotions in the room boosting as cheerful smiles moved like a wave, dotting every single face. Ilya's own thoughts were of high enthusiasm as she realized how entertaining the two must be. The sole focus of attention on the two as they put their skills onto display.

 

It looked like the lioness had taken the hint and accepted Vina's offer without any hesitation, as Ilya followed the foxlike Felis back to the spot where Vina had been dancing and playing her flute before. Now with the two of them dancing together they got an even more enthusiastic audience than before. Not only were the both of them attractive while simultaneously providing a nice contrast (the short golden-haired lioness and the tall silver-haired vixen), but the two of them were both also talented dancers who knew how to move their body according to the rhythm of the music while simultaneously catching the eyes of the onlookers. The fact that the two of them could also match each other's movements so their dance combined into one big performance just made it even better. If it wasn't for the fact that Vina had to keep working the flute with her fingers she'd also move her arms, but instead she left that to Ilya as she herself relied on dancing with her feet and torso.

The song swept through the room, the whistling of Vina's instrument filling the air as the clapping of hands and the tapping of feet accentuated the melody. It wasn't the most complicated of songs, no masterpiece which deserved to be presented to the royal court and memorized by all. It was a simple song, meant to evoke positive emotions and cheer, a song which helped set a happy mood in which people could enjoy themselves. But it was performed masterfully, as even with her limited ranks in Harmonic Magic Vina still could use the fact that on Earth she was already a talented musician, and while higher ranks in Harmonic Magic might enhance her performance even further a lower rank wasn't going to make it less. As it was her somewhat average Harmonic Magic already meant that her music had an enchanting quality to it, but it wouldn't become supernatural until she had advanced even further.

However like all songs this one had its end, and Vina deftly moved her fingers to weave the end of the song. The music reached one last crescendo before ending with a climax which, from Vina's perspective, helped keep the sensation of boundless life force in people's minds even as the song ended, by leaving them with a bang rather than a gentle trailing off. It may be a bit more abrupt, but if she had played well enough the song would keep playing in their souls and hearts for a while after. Taking the flute away from her lips Vina linked one of her arms with one of the lioness's, fingers entwining with Ilya's as she guided the golden-haired girl into a bow towards the audience so the people in the tavern could shower the both of them in applause and appreciation. Of course Vina being Vina she also just wanted to pull Ilya a bit closer to her side and tease her a little by entangling their arms, but she was pretty sure the crowd also appreciated the two of them performing together.

While still bowing Vina whispered something to Ilya, using her music magic to help make sure the words ended up in the golden girl's ear even if the audience around them couldn't hear it. "Happy Together" It was a hint towards what would happen next, as Vina put away her flute in the same motion where she straightened back up and brought Ilya back up with her, then let go of Ilya's hand to instead spread both her arms wide and up in the air.

"Thank you~! We're both glad you all enjoyed it~ Sometimes music says more than what words could ever hope to convey, but sometimes words are needed to finish the task! We've all been blessed with the gift of speech after all, so let's follow up with a song~!"

With that Vina began to sing, her gentle but cheerful voice filling the air where before there had been the fluid tones of a flute. Whereas the music from before had been blatantly cheerful and joyful this song had a more gentle and supportive tone to it, to complement the cheerfulness with a deeper form of warmth.

"Maybe you dont have money
Oh maybe you don't have strength
When fighting isn't the path
That you're willing to take
Your walls are broken down
So you see you're starting to fall

Your world is crashing down despite all your trying
Everything you do just leaves all the worrying
You have no answer, no equation, no rhyme
The only solution isn't in your reality

What if I told you
That no matter your feelings
You can change and be happy
Working with others
You can achieve the greatness you aspire?

My arms are open wide
I'm reaching out to you
And if you say you're weak
I'm standing to tell you
The happier you are
The richer you will be
Focus on what you have
Not on things that are missing

Together we can lend a hand
Together help the world
You need not be afraid
Just go out of your way
Go and help a friend~

My arms are open wide
I'm reaching out to you
And if you say you're weak
I'm standing to tell you
The happier you are
The richer you will be
Focus on what you have
Not on things that are missing

The happiest people
Are those that lend their hand
Sooo~ together lets achieve greatness
Aspire to do better
Let us be happy... together~"

Once again Vina danced along with her own song, out of the corner of her eyes looking at Ilya to see if the lioness was still planning to dance along. And this time it was a song which Vina was almost certain the lioness knew as well, seeing how it was pretty popular so far as Vina was aware. If Ilya once more danced (and sang) along Vina would first let her move independently, but just like how the song became more focused on helping each other and being happy together she'd try to pull Ilya along in a dance for the two of them, her azure eyes shining with warmth and joy even as she kept singing.

 

The delicate yet fierce way that Vina was set on moving her hips and her legs made Ilya less conscious about her own. Her focus becoming her upper torso. Her arms and hands moving graciously. Her hips only moving with the music as her feet began to "tap" the happy beat. A few spins to the rhythm set a rather large smile on her face. The feeling of the now crowded tavern, as a result of the two female felis dancing and playing a rather happy song made a feeling of joy and support from others. It was as if, despite the tragic happenings that had occurred, the two performers boosted the mood significantly. The otherwise silent tavern was alight with music. Couples and friends began to dance together as the song reached a climax. Ilya's eyes keeping track of everyone's smiles as she continued to dance. Their own bodies telling their own individual story.

Much like every song she had sung, this one ended rather too quickly. The ending was a simple louder note, setting the climax to surge through the hearts and minds of everyone in the room. The arm link had been unexpected, yet Ilya rolled with it. Bowing at the exact same time as Vina. The applause and praise erupted in the room as voice hollered and vigorous clapping sounded due to their performance and bows. The light sound of 'Encore' sounded in the room as the greedy people wanted to feel more delighted by the music and dancing.

The feeling of Vina pulling her even closer made her heart beat a little bit fast. Her left hand naturally went to her heart, however she made it seem as if she was touched by the audience that had grown since the two had started. Instead, Ilya couldn't help but think, Why am I so elated to be so close? The silver haired vixen definitely held a sort of pull in Ilya's head space. The exact way that the vixen spoke up to the crowd, sent Ilya chills. It reminded her of herself after she sang a song that lit up the audience at her concerts. It reminded her of herself, yet with a small twist. Her voice was much different and her word choices were different as well. The words that Vina had spoken prior had sent chills into Ilya's spine. Knowing full-well, that it was one of the songs she herself had written and released to the public. One song that despite it not going very viral, it was one of her favorites.

The light and cheerful voice filling the air, sent the same feeling that Ilya was used to. A little hesitant to sing, she let Vina take the lead. While Vina was singing, Ilya began to hum to tune of the song. The first verse, entering into the air. The supportive roll of someone overseeing someone who feels as if they are nothing. As soon as the vixen finished singing the first verse, Ilya joined in. Her humming breaking into her voice. Clear and emotional. The sound bringing more chills across the audience. The way that the vixen and the lion's voices blended. Ilya taking on a harmonic route. Despite never having preformed with harmony, Ilya oftentimes played around with harmony at her own home. Her body began to move, a slower yet encouraging pace set by the song and her body.

"Your world is crashing down despite all your trying
Everything you do just leaves all the worrying
You have no answer, no equation, no rhyme
The only solution isn't in your reality"​

Ilya remembered the time that she had written the song. Her best friend had killed herself. Ilya had felt as if her world was crashing down. She had been a second too late in arriving at her house to try and save her. Small tears escaped the wall of Ilya's eyes as she remembered writing the song...

"What if I told you
That no matter your feelings
You can change and be happy
Working with others
You can achieve the greatness you aspire?"​

Her tears that shed from her eyes had no effect on her voice as she oftentimes had to overcome being filled with her emotions while singing to others. Her face becoming wet as she remembered sitting on the floor of her best friend's room, breaking down. Remembering that if she had only reached sooner, it would never have happened. It had been the very event that had flipped a switch in Ilya's mind. Her hand had then flown across the paper. Her song.. The very song she had come up with becoming a light for anyone in trouble. Just get up and help each other.. The song then began to take on the upbeat cheerful part as they told the story of helping each other no matter the circumstance. The support that friends held on the world was an impact worth telling about.

"My arms are open wide
I'm reaching out to you
And if you say you're weak
I'm standing to tell you
The happier you are
The richer you be
Focus on what you have
Not on things that are missing

Together we can lend a hand
Together help the world
You need not be afraid
Just go out of your way
Go and help a friend~

My arms are open wide
I'm reaching out to you
And if you say you're weak
I'm standing to tell you
The happier you are
The richer you will be
Focus on what you have
Not on things that are missing

The happiest people
Are those that lend their hand
Sooo~ together lets achieve greatness
Aspire to do better
Let us be happy... together~"​

As the song had changed in rhythm, so had Ilya's dancing. She had thus been moving independently, but at the sound of the first chorus set her dancing to dependent. Her body being pulled, along with pulling the vixen closer. Until at last, the two stood in the center once again. Their body's dancing as the song continued on. The water built up in Ilya's eyes still appeared, yet this time.. The facial expression rather than an emotional sorrow was one of an emotional warmth.. Joyful cheer. Her voice intertwining with the vixen's as her harmony added to the sound of the silver-haired felis' melody.

Despite having chosen the harmonic path, Ilya's voice still sounded much alike with her real life counterparts, Mia. No one could really change how they sounded in the real world, unless they had changed it in the game settings. This time around, Ilya had remained her voice unchanged. It was a part of who she was.

The song ended, and the joy that fizzed in the room was definitely worth the performance. The sound of buzzing happiness filling the room. As Ilya remained holding onto the vixen. A two-way street as the vixen held onto her. Now it was Ilya's turn to talk. She broke away from the vixen before addressing everyone. The crowd having growed even more. Filling up much of the space in the tavern.

"I want to thank you all for showing up here and watching us. May we go out and lend a hand to each other and make this world a great place~ I now request that you all chat and sing among yourselves. Who knows, by reaching a hand out right now you might achieve great things." The cheerful applause sounded at the end of Ilya's small speech. Before one man began to take it away. His boisterous voice entering the room as he started on a song that seemed popular in this world.. Yet one that Ilya did not know. The attention was now on everyone in the room as voices began to start up together. People began to merge together and sing. The joy not making a move to exit the tavern, rather it stayed put.. Filling the people's souls.

It was now, Ilya who turned towards the vixen. She held out her hand, "The name's Ilya. Want to get a drink?"

 

Vina didn't often encounter someone who went with the flow as smoothly as Ilya, and she was happy that Ilya was proving herself to be exceptionally fluid in her reactions. Others would have been more hesitant to go with the bow, or otherwise have given away the fact that this wasn't planned out at all and that Vina had for the most part just been improvising on the spot. Beyond that the lioness was also a very good dancer and easy on the eyes, so together the two of them got quite the audience even as they bowed, the white-haired Felis smiling brightly as the people around called for more. She might not be able to keep doing this all day and night, but she definitely was going to give the crowd some more before she'd spend her time getting better acquainted with the Felis who managed to awaken such curiosity inside Vina.

The song she had chosen to sing together with Ilya was one Vina loved, because even if it started out a bit gloomy it ended on a high note, expressing her own feelings of how happiness could be found in being happy together with others, and how everyone could always use a hand and that everything would be all right as long as people loved one another and helped one another. Life was something to enjoy and experience together, and this song was one of the best for getting that message across. With the mood in the tavern already so upbeat and enthusiastic this song would certainly be well received, as even if the beginning was a bit sadder the rest of the song would invoke those feelings of altruism and brotherhood in the audience.

As she began to sing Vina noticed that Ilya at first didn't participate as wholeheartedly, instead humming along and adding to the tune. It wasn't exactly what the white-haired Felis had planned, but it worked just as well, with the audience listening attentively as the silver-haired Felis sung and the golden-haired Felis hummed the melody.

However that didn't compare to the results when Ilya did join in, their two voices intertwining to fill the air with their music. It wrapped itself around everyone in the tavern, first reminding them that sometimes life could be tough, but then quickly following up by reminding them that there were always people around them, people to love, people who could help and be helped. A song of altruism and caring, of surpassing the limitations the world imposed upon its inhabitants by standing together. While some people might be able to achieve a lot on their own, Vina had yet to meet anyone who couldn't help contribute to the group to achieve even more, and almost everyone also was happier when they contributed that way. The feeling of knowing you made a difference, that you made someone's day brighter... And receiving support yourself when you need it, instead of having to pull yourself out of the trouble. A warmth that couldn't be faked.

As she sung Vina did notice that for some reason Ilya's cheeks were getting wet, which made the druidess worry. Did she accidentally push her new friend into singing a song which held painful memories for her? Given that the beautiful lioness was still singing Vina did as well, deciding not to ruin the moment and instead inquire afterwards. She'd do her best to apologize if it turned out that she'd chosen the wrong song, but for now Ilya was willing to continue, so Vina wasn't going to be the one to put a stop to it. The audience would also have been disappointed if they stopped now, given that they were all basking in the warm song.

Fortunately near the end of the song it became clear that Ilya was enjoying herself nevertheless, so even if Vina would still have to inquire just in case at least she wouldn't have to feel like she was pushing the lioness too far, meaning Vina could keep going all out with their performance. When the two of them combined their dancing Vina teasingly allowed her tail to occasionally brush against Ilya's tail and legs, disguising it as part of the dance even if the look she gave the golden-haired Felis made it clear that the druidess had some mischievous intent... Or at the very least playful.

That said, Vina did notice that Ilya's voice was remarkably similar to the voice which belonged to the original song. In fact now that she was paying attention and using her sharp ears it was identical. Vina showed no outward reaction to the suspicion she was developing, since she was already smiling and being playful, but inside her head she was certainly entertaining the notion that she'd happened to encounter a very popular singer in Terrasphere. She wasn't going to spread that information or anything, but it would explain why Ilya was so good at dancing, singing and going along with the flow of the performance.

At the end of the song Vina stared into Ilya's eyes deeply for a moment, her own azure eyes holding a gentle and affectionate warmth before the two broke up so the lioness could address the audience. She left it to the golden-haired Felis, her only contribution being a high wave and a heartfelt "Thank you for being a wonderful audience~!" It was good to see that their message had reached the people, as they kept the festivities going. Vina watched the tavern with a lot of satisfaction in her heart before turning back to Ilya once the lioness addressed her. The foxlike Felis took the lioness's hand and shook it. "My name is Vina Skysong, and I'd love to~" She took Ilya by the hand and guided her towards the bar so they could order themselves some drinks. On the way there she looked over her shoulder to give her friend a grateful smile. "Thank you for going along with my plan. It would have been a bit embarrassing if you'd resisted, and two women playing together can gather a much bigger audience than one~" She giggled. "I bet a lot of them don't even realize it was improvised."

 

Atmospheric joy filled the tavern as Ilya focused on her newfound companion. The silver-haired vixen was introduced as Vina Skysong. A name that well suited the physique and physical attributes that dominated the girl's body. The attractive behavior, voice and exquisite figure being enough to draw any man.. or woman.. in. The name brought about a light connotation as it seemed to be that of a supporting character. The nimble way that the girl held her body spoke differently than Ilya. Yet their goal both seemed to be similar. Ilya's own goals taking shape once more. Those of taking time and effort in achieving success. Weaving the ideals and happiness of others to bring about a greater place. Yet, rather than a supportive figure, Ilya stood as a combat oriented character. A strong and powerful leader of sorts.. Despite her short physique.

"Vina Skysong... I love your name, though I feel as though I have known you for a while, due to the unraveling of our performance. May I call you Vina?" The look that provided thankfulness being cast behind Vina's shoulder caused Ilya to reply with an appreciative grin. Smiles definitely are contagious.

With the next topic of speaking that was introduced, Ilya instantly had questions burning in her mind.
Some seemed to be more person than others, yet for starters she would seem to pick one that would flow and connect each one together. "Completely improvised... You did amazing~ Have you performed before?" The small question that Ilya brought forth to the table definitely held numerous conotations. One could simply say, 'yes' or 'no' and move on. Yet... In the back of Ilya's mind she felt as though the captivating felis would answer with a more intricate reply. One with detail and perhaps a few questions of her own.

The question that Ilya asked seemed to take mere seconds as the two somehow managed to travel from where they had performing to the bar counter top within the time frame of Ilya asking the question. The area was definitely crowded. People were singing together, dancing and drinking everywhere. Spills were being made and happiness was spreading in the room like a wildfire. Nonetheless, as Ilya stood at the counter she marveled at their swift travelling. Taking note that the bartender seemed to be rather busy, Ilya decided to wait until he came over to order the drinks she had asked. Already knowing what she would order, she silently listened for Vina's reply. If Ilya herself was asked, she had to think of a way to make it seem discrete, if Vina had no already known of who Ilya was in the real world. I am almost a hundred percent certain that she has assumptions...

With a small flick of her tail, she teasingly brushed Vina's exposed stomach, her ears 'twitching' with flirtation. The simple expression of her ears showing that she was listening. Her focus zoning in on her friend. Prepared to take everything that the fox-like felis would say.. Both verbally and nonverbally.

 

Vina smiled and bowed slightly to express her thanks to Ilya. "Thank you~! I'm very fond of it as well. Your namely is also lovely though~ It sounds very gentle." She then straightened up and nodded in agreement. "There's a lot you can learn about someone by paying attention to their performance, isn't there? I've always thought that. And Vina is fine~" She never had felt the need to demand that people addressed her by her full name, and she even had less desire to ask that of Ilya, given how full names tended to result in formality and made it harder to get really intimate... And the silver-haired Felis felt like she wanted to get even closer to Ilya than the combined performance has already allowed for.

When Ilya complimented her ability to improvise Vina chuckled. "Yes and no. I'm no professional performer, but I've given a lot of performances as a hobby, both public and private~" She stuck out the tip of her tongue at the last part, hinting at an alternate meaning without saying it straight out. Anyone who knew Vina well would be able to tell what she was talking about, but she liked leaving people flustered without actually being too forward. It was fun to tease them and then ask why they were blushing...

"To elaborate, I've been very energetic from a young age, and then it turned out that I'm very enthusiastic when it comes to expressing myself in lots of various ways, both through music, arts, and more... direct methods~" She swished her tail from side to side, and with Ilya being guided along towards the bar that meant the golden-haired lioness might find her gaze pulled downwards towards the long, lustrous silver tail and the firm round behind it was partially covering. "Fortunately I also had the talent to match my enthusiasm so I ended up performing a lot at parties and the like even if I've yet to try doing it for a living."

Once at the bar she ordered herself a light drink the moment the bartender had time to take their order, not wanting to get absolutely smashed but certainly feeling like cutting loose a little today. The performance had gone extraordinarily well, Ilya's contribution enough to turn an already cheerful tavern into a complete miniature festival as their enthralling performance had lit a fire in the hearts of the onlookers. Today wasn't a day where one should try to act solemn or keep themselves from drinking, even if they only drank a little. Fortunately in this world the drawbacks of alcohol were easier to treat, with the beauty that was healing magic.

Feeling Ilya's tail brush across her stomach the corner of Vina's lips went up, the vixen taking note and giving Ilya a mischievous smile. "Do you have any experience with performing? You went along with my plans very naturally~ I bet a lot of people would have been stiffer and have a harder time hiding their surprise at being pulled along." Vina might be very forward herself, but she was aware that for a lot of people what she had done with the beautiful lioness would have caught them off guard, and they'd probably have shown it.

As she talked with her new friend she subtly curled her tail, hooking it around Ilya's tail and looping it a few times until their tails were loosely entwined, the druidess acting like it was nothing out of the ordinary even as her ears flicked and she took a small step closer to the lioness so she didn't have to reach as far with her tail. Close enough that if Ilya returned the gesture their hips would probably be touching. In fact even leaning far enough could already get that result, as Vina thanked the barkeeper once he returned with their drinks.

 

The clear voice coming from the silver vixen brought a sense of security to Ilya. It was much different than most she heard, which was refreshing to say the least. Listening to each word and figuring out what Vina meant by each one was not too difficult a task, and Ilya found her tail flicking in agreement quite often. The teasing that Vina oftentimes made in Ilya's direction did not go unnoticed. It would result a small blush to spread across her high cheekbones and her eyelashes to flutter.

With her own drink now on its way, Ilya once again focused on Vina. No thought of having a small drink despite the time of the day, or the life of the party. Ilya caved in on herself as she thought of what to say to Vina Skysong. She could either tell her the truth and give detail or tell the truth and be vague. The last thing Ilya wanted in the game was to only be known as Mia Harper, the idol singer in the real world.

Yet, from her singing she could assume that Vina probably already knew who she was, with the song choice Vina had made.

"Erhm.. I suppose you could say I definitely have experience. I can improvise things well, and I have been performing for a little whole now..." To cover up her own hesitation, she smiled at Vina. "What would the point in being all stiff? If you do things lightheartedly, more people will enjoy themselves!"

The smile that Ilya had across her lips merely grew brighter as Vina entwined her tail with her own. The step closer that Vina made was returned by Ilya. Their hips brushing against each other.

The drinks were set before the two females, and shortly after, Ilya scooped up hers and took a small sip. "Drinking with another person is much better than drinking alone. Shall we make this a tradition?" Her ears flicked as she spoke, her violet eyes shifting from her cup to her drinking partner.

 

It wasn't difficult to see that Ilya was returning Vina's interest with yet more interest, the silver vixen already having lots of thoughts about what they could do together if things kept going as well as they did now. Of course there was still the question of whether her newest friend was actually open for that kind of relationship with her (or with any female, for that matter) but seeing how Ilya was blushing Vina doubted that would be much of an issue. Ilya was cheerful, friendly, open and responded positively to all of Vina's teasing and advances so far. There was little reason to think she would refuse, which Vina was very glad for because she really wanted the beautiful lioness to say yes.

As Ilya tried to be honest about her experience as a performer without spilling the beans Vina giggled making a small motion with her hand, trying to reassure the girl. "Don't worry, I'm not going to pester you about it or expose you to others. If you wanted it to be known you would reveal it yourself, and I'm guessing it's very comforting to be able to experience a life outside of the spotlight by entering Terrasphere." There was little reason to pretend that she didn't know who Ilya really was at this point aside from playing with the girl, and Vina had a much different kind of playing in mind. Besides, given the hesitance that the lioness was showing she had been really worried about it, and while the druidess certainly was a tease she didn't want people to be worried or stressed.

"Of course I might ask you for a favour for helping keep your secret~ Or maybe a reward for figuring it out~" Vina leaned a little closer to Ilya, her eyes glinting with mischief as her smile widened a bit. "I'm glad you agree that being stiff just means you're decreasing your opportunities to have fun~ A lot of people nowadays seem to think that maturity demands that you act stoic all the time, which doesn't suit me at all and if you agree that means we can have a lot of fun together~"

Once the drinks arrived the silver-tailed Felis took a sip of her own, when Ilya suggested making it a tradition of drinking together nodding eagerly. "Of course! We can keep performing together and hanging out afterwards, and if we're with the two of us we can try out a lot of performances beyond just singing a song." Vina wasn't that eager to become an actual idol in the real world, but that didn't mean she couldn't become very enthusiastic at the thought of expanding her repertoire of performances in Terrasphere, together with her new dear friend impressing the crowds and leaving people entertained and happy. There were very few things as satisfying as knowing you helped make someone's day better. "I don't want to make you feel like it's a job in the slightest, but as long as you're happy doing it I certainly am not going to say no~"

Imbibing some more of her mild drink the Felis looked very satisfied, especially with how she felt Ilya's tail around her own and how their hips were touching. Twitching her ears she took another sip before speaking up once more, looking at Ilya through her long eyelashes. "But with how pretty you are there are a lot of other fun things we can do as well, if you're willing~" She moved even closer, feeling like she might be moving a bit too quickly but at the same time not wanting to wait much longer. She'd already sung and danced together with Ilya, and the beautiful lioness was very difficult to resist, especially since she wasn't given any signs of being opposed to the idea. She was close enough that she could have nuzzled Ilya if she wanted to, but instead she just whispered into one of those delicate golden ears. "Maybe we should celebrate meeting one another~ Although you might not want to show that type of performance to this crowd, so we'd have to go to my room." She giggled again, her cheeks now a faint red as she winked at Ilya and took another sip.

 

A large sigh escaped Ilya's semi-parted soft lips. Thank the lord.. She is definitely a nice person.. She had newfound respect for the girl next to her. "The spotlight does not bother me too much.. I love it when people get inspired by me.. I just don't like it when people just want to be around me because of the fame that is attached with what I do. I genuinly like helping people and inspiring them. Making people smile is the best, and when I can do it and do what I love to do the most? All the better... I just don't want to be categorized as just someone with fans... Someone to be taken advantage of. I want to be an influence to others and help them. Much like my song that I wrote that we performed earlier. I just... I just love singing..." Her little spew about how she truly felt caused her left hand to fly to her lips to force herself to stop talking. "Sorry.. I get really into what I say a lot of the time.."

The mention of a favor made Ilya's ears perk. It would be the least she could do. Upon listening further, Vina had swapped it out for a reward. The leaning paired with the smile and the mischief clear in her eyes caused Ilya to blush even more than she already had been. "Pfft. We already are having fun~" This time, Ilya leaned closer a bit and winked very subtly at Vina.

"Perfect! Tradition is set~" A small clap of her hands and a gleeful smile appeared in the room as Ilya grew excited about the tradition they had set.

"Almost as pretty as you~" Her own compliment that had been made out in the direction of Vina was Ilya's way of saying that she was in fact willing for whatever Vina had in mind. The way that Vina held her body... The way her eyes spoke how she was feeling. The way her hair fluttered across the figure of her body. The way that Vina's curves were enhanced by whatever Vina did. The way she loved music and got into preforming. The way that Vina's voice twinkled in the rowdy and joyous air of the tavern. It all attracted Ilya, drawing her closer in towards Vina.

The way that Vina drew herself closer to Ilya caused butterflies to once again erupt in Ilya's stomach. She did not stop Vina as she bit her lip ever so gently. Out of pure habit. The small blush that had barely made way on Vina's face set it in stone. Whatever my silver vixen wants... She will have. Ilya at that point in time, in her own mind claimed Vina as the one person she would do anything for. "What are we waiting for then?"

 

The concerns Ilya voiced regarding the downsides of being an idol were ones Vina had heard before, but which were very fair concerns. Although she was delighted to hear that the lioness genuinely wanted to be helpful and inspiring to people, and wasn't one of those superstars who (supposedly) only acted nice on camera and was a lot less friendly off stage. "I've heard about singers and musicians being troubled by the idea of people only getting close to them because of their popularity and fame. I agree that I'd rather be approached because of who I am rather than whether I'm famous or not, but you could also see it as an opportunity to show them that there's more to you than just the fame and the voice. Wouldn't it be great if you could help someone learn that the friendship is much more important than the money or the fame?" Of course that was a very optimistic way of looking at it, almost naive, but Vina still thought it was a fantastic idea. When Ilya looked embarrassed about how much she talked about her fame and how it affected her social life the silver vixen giggled. "Don't worry, I love hearing your voice, especially when you're clearly talking about something you're passionate about~"

"Oh, we're definitely having fun already~" She winked back at the golden-haired woman. "But there's still a lot more fun to be had, and I'd like to keep having fun for many more days together with you." She took another sip of her own drink, feeling the alcohol help spread a pleasant buzz throughout her system which only added to the happiness that she had already been feeling. It wasn't enough to control her actions strongly, but it definitely helped spread a strong feeling of contentedness.

Hearing Ilya's response Vina blushed even as she gave the woman a wicked smile, still mischievous but also a lot more sultry than before, her eyelids low so her shining azure eyes looked into Ilya's violet eyes through long eyelashes, her lips having the faintest gloss to them thanks to the drink in Vina's hand, stray locks of the druidess's obscenely long hair framing her face thanks to her naturally wild hair and the warm atmosphere of the room, giving her a less restrained/uptight appearance without going so far as to make her look unhinged or unstable. "I'm sure there would be many who would have difficulty choosing between the two of us, but I'm very happy you think of me that way...~ And I'd be very willing to let you inspect my form a bit closer to see if it really is to your liking~"

"As for what we're waiting for... nothing beyond your agreement~" Placing her drink back on the counter of the bar Vina let her free hand slide down Ilya's arm until it reached her slender hand, nimbly entwining their fingers before pushing herself away from the bar, the tip of her tail remaining entangled with the base of Ilya's even as she pulled the lioness along through the crowd, leading the way to upstairs and also occasionally giving the girl a mischievous but affectionate smile over her shoulder, her long silver-white hair deftly swaying behind her and brushing against Ilya's legs as if she was doing it on purpose, somehow able to control the movements of her hair.

Once they reached the upstairs instead of immediately heading for the room she had rented Vina spun around while pulling Ilya close enough that she could wrap both her arms around the beautiful lioness, positioning herself so that she could place her back against the wall of the hallway even as she only gave her new dearest friend enough time to catch Vina's playful look before the vixen kissed her, coaxing Ilya into leaning against her so their combined weight rested against the wall and they could feel one another's bodies with only their clothes in the way, which given their respective style of clothing meant that there was a lot of exposed skin, from the bare shoulders to the uncovered midriffs. In Vina's case it was even worse as her outfit was that of a dryad's, something which she had obtained during one of her adventures... and dryads weren't known for being very conservative with their attire.

Despite the suddenness Vina's kiss was still gentle and soft, her embrace of the golden-haired girl more encouragement than actual imprisonment, and leaving it to Ilya to press forward should she want to intensify their affectionate exchange. However from the way that the vixen's tail was stroking the lioness's, from the way that Vina's tongue slipped out to run past Ilya's lips, from the way that her fingers were slowly circling the soft skin on Ilya's lower back, from the way that the druidess's body was emanating warmth... It was clear that this softness wasn't caused by reluctance, no lack of passion in Vina. It was purely her not wanting to make Ilya feel like she was being rushed into this, wanting to let the lioness decide just how passionate she wanted the exchange to be. Later into the night she might not be as controlled as she was now, but right now she wanted to make the message clear that for Vina Ilya's comfort was paramount, even if her own desire was making her kiss and embrace the lovely singer before even reaching their private room.