Take Back the Crown

Thora didn't realize that she had been holding her breath until she let out a small gasp for air. She had small little goosebumps and she rubbed her arms in hopes that they would go away. That song was so old that even the melody didn't sound familiar to the nymph. Even so, she could feel its power and emotion as she watched Tetra fall to her knees.
 
Oceana had already fallen asleep but Tetra's song reached her even in her dreams.


She was in a dark, blurring world that swished like water around her. But she was able to walk in its ruined streets, among its crumbling buildings.


Suddenly a wisp of green flame floated by and the elf followed it, jogging, barefoot, along the cobblestone.


It brought her to an auditorium of some kind with a half moon of steps up to a raised dias.


It was too dark for even Oceana's elven eyes to see, the tiny flickering flame was too small to set the area alight.


Focusing on the small, verdant spark the elf reached out and gently touched one finger tip to it.


Abruptly the thing burst apart in a shockwave that rocked the ground. Oceana kept her feet but covered her eyes from the blinding explosion. When she looked up, dozens of torches of green flame lit the auditorium bright as day in this odd, murky world.


And then, she was shot full of arrows.


She knew not how many.


Looking up at the dias, wide eyed, the elf saw five figures standing there. All of them bearing the tattoos and pointed ears of her people.


"Traitor." They hissed in unison after having released their arrows. The tattooed faces behind their bows were cold and furious yet emotionless.


They took a step forward and fired another round straight into Oceana.


"Human-lover." They growled, the step they took seemed angrier than the last.


They drew their bowstrings back again.


Thunk thunk thunk thunk thunk!


"Bastard!" They roared , suddenly in a tight circle around the elf maiden's bleeding body.


Oceana had finally collapsed to the cold stone floor, face frozen in shock and fear despite the blood pouring from her chest and legs and mouth.


For the faces above her were cold, rotting statues of her most beloved.


Her father, his stern brow broken open by a human axe. The blood had long dried and worms ate at the wound. His fire-red hair coated with dust and blood.


Hunting master Aisling, her golden hair singed and blackened along with her entire left half.


The clan's elder, his kind eyes now hollow sockets, dirt and root clinging to his nails and wrinkled skin.


Duananne, her father's young cousin who had also worked at the forge and who had been her best friend since childhood; who's arm was now hanging by a thread of exposed muscle and bore a slash in her neck where a human had tried several times to decapitate her.


And finally, a specter of herself those six years ago, broken and shamed, a huge slice in her abdomen where her love had run her through. Her ebony hair, once the envy of the clan, was hacked off in uneven strands and left to burn.


Just as she thought they would bear down on her with dagger and sword, they vanished.


And in their place stood a blond human woman, her sharp features alight with a smug joy as she looked down upon Oceana. The dark tendrils were still there, swirling about as she walked forward.


"We meet again, my love"


"Kìg...yo" The elf maiden gasped.


(To be continued)
 
The song sent shock through his entire body more than anything. It was beautiful, yes, but it had such an undertone that seemingly clawed at his very being. It was something he faintly recalled, not in entirety, just in part. Some of the elder fae had made mention of this tale before. But it had just been told as fiction to entertain the younger ones. Yet the way the words came from this woman? It surely wasn't just a story. Her words had engulfed him with such emotion that he found himself feeling along with it. Even as she collapsed into the earth, he continued to feel the weight of the lyrics. Foxrun then went forward and knelt beside her. He did not know why, but he was compelled to come up to her. He knew nothing of her apart from this moment. Unable to provide any words of comfort, he merely placed a gentle hand on her shoulder.


@Abberakelaran
 
Valeiah blinked. "How come whenever we are a little bit happy something happens and we're all gloomy after that. If this keeps happening we aren't going to have much fun on the road." She sighed, then under her breath grumbled, "I would rather get an knife to the eye than be with a bunch of mopey people."
 
Nameen had been transfixed from the moment that Tetra began to sing.


During the first stanzas, she had listened with her one eye wide, and her lips only slightly parted. There had been an air of childlike wonder to her as the melody had flowed through her ears and down her neck and chest, spreading along each limb to the tips of her toes and her fingers.


With this feeling - being one with the song - Nameen had shut her eye. Momentarily she had been in darkness, but as the seconds had ticked by and the words had continued to come, Nameen could've sworn there were images being painted into the blackness. Images that she could see through both eyes, her living and her dead. Visuals stories being told of a priestess and a demon, whose fates seemed forever entangled.


And then the melody had ended. The priestess and the demon had disappeared, and Nameen had opened her eyes.


Even as the night fell silent once again, she could still feel the words in the air, lingering, engulfing the entire campsite with their emotional power.


Peering into the fire, Nameen's mouth lifted into a small, peaceful smile.
 
Garrett listened quietly, appearing unmoved. It was how he worked: the more he felt, the less he showed. 'What a depressing story.' he thought just as Dorian told him that 'I agree with Valeiah on this one. This is one sorry, pitiful bunch of people.'


The mage wanted to sigh, but held back as this was really not the time. 'What did I tell you before?' He asked instead.


'At least pretend to have some sympathy.' Dorian quoted him, glaring at Garrett. 'The fey is acting a little weird.' He changed topics.
 

Hjalmar listened intently to the story, sometimes he leaned forward in anticipation, forgetting that Oceana was still lying her head in his lap. When the woman finished her lament, Hjalmar hung his head in response, not sure if he should say something to reassure her. He remained quiet, slipping Oceana's ebony locks through his fingers as she began to stir... as if she was dreaming. It didn't seem like a good dream.


@OlKaJa77 @Abberakelaran

Yaroslav remained stoic and seemed unmoved by the story on the outside, though he felt empathy towards Tetra. Svetlana was also touched by the story, impressed by her skills in telling it. As a storyteller, she also felt a bit of pride. If it wasn't such a sad story, she probably would have let Tetra know that.


When Valeiah commented, Svetlana raised her eyebrow and frowned, "That can be arranged." She retorted, "Do not make light of the pain one shares. Did we complain about your story when you spoke of how your tribe was eaten? No. Learn some manners and empathy, Valeiah." She scolded, "This is not going to be a fun journey. If you thought it was going to be, then you should leave now. We are only trying to strengthen our bonds and make due with what we have, try to enjoy the peace and quiet when it comes."


@Danika
​
 
Tetranna slowly rose to her feet grimacing slightly. She wiped her face, and then stumbled slightly as she walked over next to Svetlana. She sat down and said, "That story has been passed on in my bloodline for a long long time. That song has not been sung in it's fullness for around four hundred years. Consider it my contribution to the night. Remember it Svetlana. It should be remembered by more than one mind, and it has particular meaning to the under-mortal." She shook her head and said, "I have been asked a few times over the years whether someone should take an opportunity for immortality. I have always told them no. Long life is not worth the price of eternity without humanity. I have lived for many years, seen many things, and I would trade it all for mortality in a heartbeat."


@Lo Alyssa
 
"No. You didn't." Valeiah sighed. "Sorry for having no feelings." She shrugged. "I just feel like.. How can we bond and stuff and all become great friends if we're all sad to each other? Sure, sadness can bring people together but so can happiness." She bit her lip. "Hm. Sorry again. I'm babbling."


@Lo Alyssa
 

"Happiness is fleeting and easy to share, Valeiah." She scolded again, "Sadness is a difficult topic to discuss. Opening ones heart to another, revealing ones sorrows and trials, is just as important as lifting spirits." She sighed, Valeiah was young, perhaps she just didn't understand. Her voice softened, "While I understand laughing is important in life, as are tears, my child. They are not an evil that should be avoided."


As Tetra came and took a seat by the old woman, she gave her a smile, "I shall remember it... and when this is all over? I shall pass it down so it shall not be forgotten." She said, finishing the last of her meal. "Yes, immortality is not as glamorous as some make it out to be... rather, it is a burden. Many people chase it, only to find themselves cursed instead of blessed."


@Danika @Abberakelaran





Hjalmar gazed way, pondering upon the witch's words... A part of him wanted to share his sorrows, but found that he was unable to. He wasn't truly apart of this group, it was a 'bond' forged out of necessity, not desire. He sighed, and looked back down at Oceana, chuckling to himself... She reminded him of his mother.
​



 
Thora pulled her hair over her shoulder and began to fishtail braid it (something she did often as it gave her hands something to do). She heard what Svetlana said to Tetra. Nymphs weren't immortal, persay, but they lived for such long periods of time that she understand the sentiment being shared. She couldn't quite imagine what it was like to truly live forever; the amount of lose and loneliness they must feel. . . Thora had lost her family, something most nymphs never have to deal with. It wasn't until she awoke to find her entire home and family gone that she understood the curse of living. She hoped that during this journey would once again find the blessing of it.


She closed her eyes and let out a soft sigh. Her nimble fingers worked quickly until her long hair was in a thick braid that rested on her shoulder. Maybe, the dryad thought, just maybe she had much more in common with these other beings than she had originally thought and hoped for. Maybe she wouldn't have to be quite so lost and alone. Just maybe.


The thought forced a soft smile on her face. She would find the joy in life, in friendship, in her freedom. She inched away from the fire just a fraction.


((I don't even know what I was doing here haha I wanted to go for something a tad deeper and it just kind of turned into a ramble haha))
 
Tetra smiled bitterly and nodded at Svetlana saying, "I appreciate that. It is good to know that the tale will have another teller. Immortality is a dark thing. For it to not be hellish, one must be inhuman, but humanity rubs off on anything eventually. You must be inhuman to revel in it, but by that very continuation you lose what prevents the passing of time's cruelty. That tale has always been a warning. It was told long ago around campfires to the young to remind them that it is always better to live a life to it's end rather than live a life without end. My ki-, family that is, has always had a predisposition towards long life so we have passed the tale down, to remind ourselves." @Lo Alyssa
 
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Phaedra listened intently into the song that Tetra sang and felt another pang of insecurity and guilt. The story the song told felt so personal, as if Tetra had experienced it herself. It was all driven home by her brief comment regarding immortality. While Phaedra was not immortal, she did not know how long she would live. She would likely outlive most of those gathered here, including the Elf.

Having finished her meal, Phaedra stood, beginning the pool of used dishes near the campfire.

"I cannot relate to your tale, Tetra.. But it was well spoken. A sad melody. Thank you for sharing. Now, would anyone object to singing something more lighthearted?" Phaedra purposefully ignored singling out anyone out to sing alongside her, hoping that others would join with her. "It is a song that I would hear children sing, but it was frequently sung in taverns as well and generally well received. 'The Mountain Maiden', it is called, if any of you are familiar. If you don't remember the words, I will gladly lead."

She stood beside the campfire, forcing a smile. It was an effort to try and brighten the mood, yes, but it was also a time to share songs regardless of its mood. Svetlana was right that it would help form bonds. It would create memories that they would fall back on when the journey, one day, becomes too much. She hoped that - despite the fact that she was not very interesting or exciting and that she neither had a sad story nor a tortured background - these bonds would become something real and special. Phaedra desperately hoped to make friends.

@Abberakelaran @Lo Alyssa @Danika @L1d1ja @soundofmind @Rydellius @GalacticRam @plasticlizard022 @Queen of Fantasy


(I hope I got everyone??? Please let me know if I've forgotten you. It's just a lot of UNs to remember!)
​
 
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"Kìg...yo" the elf gasped


in pain, blood oozing from the multitudes of arrows protruding from her flesh.


"He...elp-..."


The thing called Kìgyo threw its head back and laughed.


"Help you? No." It reached out a clawed hand "Die with me." It said again, echoing her last dream.


Oceana abruptly screamed in rage, her bones cracked apart and the arrows flew out of her twisting body, her arms and legs grew spindly until she was twice as tall as Kìgyo and her fanged mouth dripped spittle and foul poison.


"Helpless creature!" Oceana felt the thing that she had become hiss in disgust."It is I who will watch you burn!"


The entire dream world was engulfed in flames.





(Tbc)
 
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Foxrun perked up at the slightest suggestion of a cheerful tune "I'll help you! The children in my village sang all the time. And they flocked around me, so I know lots of kid songs actually." He admitted with a silly grin "I warn you I'm not nearly as gifted as the others who have solo performed for us. Singing as a whole is much better for me." He insisted with a laugh "if you start it, I will hop in!" He sat up straighter, actually appearing excited to give it a try.


@TeeKay
 
Thora didn't volunteer that she knew the song, but she had heard her fair share of tunes throughout her life. Fortunately for the group, this was one that she knew. . . well, sort of. As long as Phaedra kept her promise of leading, and Foxrun also sang, then she wouldn't be afraid to quietly join in. Quietly being a key word here.


@TeeKay @GalacticRam
 
Valeiah nodded in understanding to the older woman's words. "I understand now. I apologize for being close-minded, Svetlana." She then turned to Phaedra.


"I used to teach some of the older children songs! They're... Uh... Vulgar. Nevermind. We probably shouldn't sing those." She was beginning to understand why so many people in her tribe were mad at her a lot.


@TeeKay @Lo Alyssa
 
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Bo couldn't help but feel torn. He almost wanted to agree with Valeiah - but only because he felt that he brought this on by welcoming someone to sing. It was a beautiful, heartfelt song though. It drew out his empathies for Tetra, and it moved him deeply, but it was not somethibg he was sure he could handle feeling more of. Sharing in one another's griefs while important, was exhausting.


At the prospect of a happier song being sung, Bo did not hesitate to respond.


"I'll join in too! I catch onto things really quick." Bo added along with the others, looking over to Phaedra with a hopeful grin. It would be nice to hear her sing.


@TeeKay
 
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Phaedra laughed softly in response to Valeiah, genuine laughter, crisp and clear like ringing bells. The young woman amused her more than anything, and to have the warm reception to her idea from several others at the campfire had made Phaedra more secure in her decision. She couldn't back down now that others were looking to her.

"I will start then. It is a simple, sweet song, I promise." She smiled warmly, happy to share.

Quickly clearing her throat, she began. Her voice was crystal clear, each syllable easily heard - a lovely soprano resonating within the camp. The tune was quick and catchy, something one could tap their foot or even dance to.

"Mountain Maiden, O Mountain Maiden,


Where have you gone?


Far over the hills, to dance at the faire!


Then dance with me, dance until dawn!


Mountain Maiden, O Mountain Maiden,


With golden locks of hair!


Please tell me that you'll be mine,


For your rejection I could not bear!


Flowers in your arms, ribbons in your hair,


Never has there been a lady so fair!


Village by the ocean, sea foam at my feet,


Dancing with you is such a treat!


Mountain Maiden, O Mountain Maiden,


The moon has nearly set,


What a blessing to have met you,


But don't you worry, don't you fret!


We'll dance again another day!


Another day, another day!


My Mountain Maiden, O Mountain Maiden, fair!


But now, to this song we sway!


Flowers in your arms, ribbons in your hair,


Never has there been a lady so fair!


Village by the ocean, sea foam at my feet,


Dancing with you is such a treat!"

After the song, Phaedra cleared her throat once more, and flushes a bit in embarrassment. The sylph was unaccustomed to singing in front of others, save for some magical incantations, as the other mage - Garrett, was it? - had discussed earlier. She rubs the back of her head, awaiting the response from the others. It was a song she had heard children sing and, while it was no nursery rhyme, it did seem lighthearted and cheery enough.

@GalacticRam @Danika @plasticlizard022 @soundofmind @Lo Alyssa @OlKaJa77 @Abberakelaran @Rydellius @Queen of Fantasy @L1d1ja
​
 
Bo listened closely to the melody and the words, and was surprised that he actually recognized the tune. He'd heart it somewhere, although he couldn't remember where. He joined in as soon as he caught the melody line, but sang just a tad quieter than Phaedra, since she was the one leading the song and he wasn't 100% confident that he knew all of the words. He was right that he didn't, because he had to pause a few times when his mind couldn't recall them. He had to try not to laugh at himself because he kept slurring things and mixing things up. Thankfully, Phaedra sang strong and sang the words very clearly.


As the song came to an end he smiled and gave a short clap as he looked to Phaedra.


yay applause,,

@TeeKay​
 
Oceana screamed as she awoke, shaking, checking her limbs to make sure they were of normal size. Frantically feeling her face for fangs or dripping poison.


Still shivering violently, the elf looked around her thinking perhaps she was still by the fire but she was in her bed roll, dawn's light rising in golden wisps just outside.


Except she wasn't in camp...


She was in Elvglenn. And the sun was just peaking over the horizon, lighting the dewy leaves of the mountain forests.


Her father peaked his head into her room in her small tree house, already covered in soot from the forge.


"Good morning, Sea Bee." He whispered with a smile.


She knew it was a dream, a sweet, sweet dream, but she savored it all the same.


Subconsciously listening to the cheerful ditty the others sang around the fire, Oceana murmured a sleepy, contented sound, her face no longer strained but peaceful.
 
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Foxrun laughed and joined in as well, even swaying to the tune. He was a low tenor, unable to keep the tune just right like Phaedra, yet he didn't seem to mind. She really had a lovely voice despite being timid of starting out. And then the big guy, trying his best to keep up with her as well. When the song came to an end he found himself in a fit of giggles, clapping alongside Bo. "Next time we'll have to dance with it!" He already laughed at the thought. "Oh! You would make a lovely maiden for the song!" He insisted to the half-sylph then added "Even though your appearance is far different...but that isn't the important part." He then cut off, catching himself rambling away again.


@TeeKay @soundofmind
 
You wouldn't have known that Thora had been singing along unless you looked at her lips. Similar to Bo, she wasn't completely confident in the lyrics though the tune washed a nostalgic feeling over her. A small smile crept on her face as the song drew to a close. How healthy and alive she felt after a lighthearted tune.
 
Valeiah knew this one. Obviously, with how she reacted. She wasn't a very good singer (she mostly yelled it) but she belted it out with Phaedra.
 
Garrett wasn't one for singing, even with a group. He knew he was good at it, but rarely used the skill outside of the recital of magical incantations. He simply was a quiet person like that. But still, he hummed quietly along with Phaedra's song.


Meanwhile Dorian had simply fallen asleep at his side, the hawk curled up and now only resembling a ball of black and green feathers.
 
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