It seems that basically every Empress build recommends the same eight abilities.

Through the tripods, I can see why they're popular, but it's also a shame to be missing out on other techniques that are just as amazing.

The Four of a Kind is admittedly quite a bit gimmicky, but the lucky resets can be so rewarding. Mysterious Stampede is also amazing and I can see that Call of Destiny has a better Quick Draw chance.

Do you have room to experiment with the abilities of this build?

It's pretty established. Blue skills are definitely in place, since it's the combination that allows you to make the most of cards such as Balance. You'll need to return. Call of Destiny is your draw card, but I'm guessing you could exchange the card for another fast draw for a loss of DPs. You have three greatest Red skills to be certain.

Pre-1445, the damage you do will be minimal regardless, so do what you like. The late game is where I'm not sure that you're able to do much. The different combinations you can play with the different cards are based on the skill you choose with their own cooldowns as well as stack counts.

The build you're talking about will likely be tweaked to produce the maximum DPS with the greatest efficiency. This is only relevant in the case of high-end game materials like HM Vykas and beyond (maybe NM Vykas).

If you come across a build that has decent DPS against other options which you like more that the design, go with it. The pleasure of your own experience is greater than the benefits of a couple thousand additional damage points.

If you find that the DPS significantly drops and you are disqualified by an Bard Then you're required to reconsider your options... Why do you need more Lost Ark gold?

Try out the items you like, and if you feel comfortable and you like it, then go ahead with it. Be sure to use the techniques of the class properly when you're doing it.