The Grazing Tails is a captivating all-female troupe of
Phurr (catfolk) dancers, known for blending dance, storytelling, and a touch of mystique. Celebrated throughout
Bridgeport County, the troupe brings audiences into a world of movement and rhythm with performances inspired by their unique heritage. Each show is a mix of elegance, agility, and expressive storytelling, captivating crowds from bustling town squares to quiet village gatherings under starlit skies.
Travelling together in their waggon, the Grazing Tails share a close-knit bond, their waggon serving as both home and stage. Cleverly designed with fold-out bunks and hidden storage compartments, the waggon holds all they need for their journeys. When they camp for the night, they gather around a small fire, where Mira’s drumming and Lira’s stories create a cosy, family-like atmosphere. In each new town, the waggon transforms into a vibrant stage, adorned with banners and lanterns that bring warmth and colour to their performance area.
The troupe’s horses, Marble and Sleet, are loyal companions on the road. Marble, the older, steady horse, is often led by Tari during narrow paths, while Sleet, the younger and spirited one, enjoys playing with Hesli, who often gives him treats. The dancers care deeply for their horses, tending to them each morning and evening to ensure they remain strong for the journey.
Most southern part of Farenia.
A Day in the Life of the Grazing Tails
Morning: Journey and Preparation
The troupe wakes with the dawn, often to the sound of Mira’s drumming as she taps out a gentle rhythm to wake everyone. The waggon’s interior is cleverly arranged for efficiency, with fold-out bunks and hidden compartments packed with costumes and props. The morning starts with a quick but hearty breakfast of bread, dried fruit, and herbal tea - easy enough to enjoy on the road.
As Marble and Sleet are hitched up to the waggon, each member falls into her role. Hesli and Kira sit at the front, guiding the horses down the winding road, while Lira perches atop the waggon, scouting for any obstacles ahead. Amari warms up her voice, humming soft melodies that drift through the air, while Selis carefully checks the costumes, ensuring that each piece is in good condition. Mira’s drumming continues, softly at first, adding a beat to their journey.
Midday: Arrival and Set-Up
By midday, they reach their destination: a small village, where curious townsfolk gather to greet the well-known troupe. Marble and Sleet are led to a shaded spot near the village square, where they can rest and graze while the troupe begins their set-up. The waggon transforms into a miniature stage backdrop, with banners unfurled, lanterns hung, and bolts of fabric draped around to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Each member has her own task. Tari heads to the village market, where she stocks up on food and fresh water, often chatting with locals who recognise her friendly face. Lira and Mira work together to set up the props and check the sound of the drums, ensuring the beat will carry through the square. Meanwhile, Selis arranges the stage with hidden compartments for her illusions, preparing small tricks that will enhance the storytelling.
Amari, the troupe’s singer, gathers the others for a quick vocal and dance warm-up, filling the square with laughter and snippets of melodies as they run through their routines. They share jokes and teasers about the night’s show with the children who gather nearby, giving them a taste of the magic to come.
Afternoon: Rehearsals and Promotion
After a light midday meal, the troupe rehearses their routine, working out transitions and coordinating movements. Hesli, with her natural grace, takes the lead, guiding the others through the sequences while Amari offers vocal cues. Lira practices her acrobatic leaps, timing them with Mira’s drumming, while Kira adjusts her scarf dance to match the gentle breeze.
Throughout the afternoon, they take turns promoting the show. Tari and Selis stroll through the village, handing out small flyers made for them by Tentacle Press and calling out details of the evening’s performance, sparking excitement among the villagers. They often pause to chat with locals, sharing stories and learning about the village’s customs, which sometimes inspire them to add little flourishes to the evening’s performance.
Evening: Performance Time
As the sun begins to set, the Grazing Tails don their costumes, transforming into their stage personas. The final touches are put on the stage, and lanterns are lit, casting a warm glow over the setup. The village square fills with eager onlookers, all waiting for the show to begin.
Amari opens the performance with a haunting melody, her voice carrying through the evening air, drawing the crowd into a quiet, magical anticipation. Mira’s drumming picks up, setting a steady beat as the others take the stage. Hesli leads the group; her movements are graceful and smooth, drawing the audience into the unfolding story. Lira’s acrobatic flips add bursts of energy, and Kira’s scarves flow like wisps of smoke as she dances.
Selis adds an element of mystery with her illusions, casting soft lights and glimmers that dance with them, while Tari narrates the story with her expressive gestures and voice. Together, the troupe brings to life a tale of love, adventure, or mystery, told through every step, every leap, and every soft whisper.
The performance ends in cheers, the crowd erupting in applause and admiration. The troupe members bow, exchanging smiles with one another, grateful for the joy they’ve shared with yet another town. They collect small donations of money, food, and sometimes even fabric and jewellery.
Night: Packing Up and Rest
Once the performance ends and the crowd disperses, the Grazing Tails begin to pack up, tired but satisfied. They fold away the costumes and props, roll up the banners, and extinguish the lanterns. Their movements are practiced and efficient, each member helping the others as they transform their stage back into a travelling waggon.
Before they settle in for the night, the troupe shares a quiet meal around a small fire, savouring fresh bread, cheese, and fruit from the village market. They talk about the day’s performance, laugh over small mistakes, and make plans for tomorrow. Tari leads a small ritual, lighting a single candle as they give thanks to their ancestors, who they believe watch over them on their travels.
As night settles in, they fold out their bunks inside the waggon, drifting off to sleep with the knowledge that another day, another town, and another performance await them the next day.
I always love details like that in world building, such as travelling showmen, circuses or entertainers. They can make such a cool downtime activity for players. Or even the start of a new adventure.
At the end of everything, hold onto anything.
That's true. And you can reuse them, even if the players are on a different location, as they travel, too. :)