Shalla

Shalla Vesperanna is a traveling bard. Her contralto voice and attractive appearance make her an instant hit in whatever town she graces with her presence. A consummate performer, Shalla can dance and act as well as she sings, and she is an excellent songwriter besides. Yet Shalla has always wanted to be a singer first. Thus, she has set out to make a singing career of her own, using her musical contacts to book performances at the best events, such as the Lady Andrella’s coming-of-age party.

A native of Lukescros, Shalla studied at the Bardic College in that city. It was there that she learned her many languages, as well as how to dance, act, play a variety of musical instruments, and both read and write music. Her one hit song, Rise Up like a Phoenix, has been performed by some of the most famous musical personalities in Thac, including the incomparable Cassilla Nightbird and the fiery red-headed diva, Angelfire.

Shalla wrote that famous song under the pen name ‘Shalia King,’ a fact she likes to keep to herself. Thus, she will not typically perform it. Instead, Shalla tends to stick to heart-wrenching ballads and melancholy tunes that suit her deep contralto voice. Her performances are captivating, and there is seldom a dry eye in the house by the time she is finished. Still, Shalla can strike up lively music when the occasion calls for it.

When Shalla meets Elladan, the two immediately hit it off. Their first duet is a crowd-pleaser, the pair strutting around the stage with a chemistry that is positively electric. Shalla’s contralto blends perfectly with Elladan’s high baritone, making every duet between them a magical experience. Their performance together at the Lady Andrella’s birthday gala is the centerpiece of the entire evening.

When the Heroes purchase the Charging Minotaur and Elladan offers her the position of manager, Shalla has to think twice about it. Ravenford is a little seaport in an excellent location, at the crossroads between Dunwynn and Orlon to the north and Lukescros and Penwick to the south. Further, the Charging Minotaur is a great place to perform, and with her connections in the music business, she could book all sorts of talent for the little town. Shalla agrees, deciding it would be fun, at least for a while, to see whether she can build Ravenford into a musical resort to rival Lukescros. Additionally, she would still be performing herself, and if she could draw the right clientele, it would only further her own musical career.