Samiyah's Songbook

This is a compilation of songs and performances by Samiyah.

Level 5 Bard Review: A Love Song of the Desert Tribes

You say (in common), 'I would like to sing for you a song of my people.'.
You say (in common), 'It is a courting song .. one that lovers would sing to one another.'.
You say (in common), 'In our way of speaking, lovers call one another 'my life' or 'my soul'. '.
You say (in common), 'You will hear that in this song. '.
You say (in common), 'Most of the songs of my culture have a repeating chorus of a single line'.
You say (in common), 'this song is no different. '.
You say (in common), 'I will sing it for you in Common, that you will understand the words... '.
You say (in common), 'though they won't rhyme in Common, I'm afraid.'.

Samiyah adjusts her veil to ensure it is modestly in place.
Samiyah sits, so she can rest the drum in the crook of her hip and arm.
Samiyah begins lightly drumming, the beat a lively beladi.

Samiyah drums: Doom-Doom-Teka-Tek, Doom-Teka-Tek!
Samiyah drums the chorus through twice, her body swaying to the music.

Samiyah sings (in Common), *Ah, ah, love is so sweet!*
Samiyah sings (in Common), *Ah, ah, love is so sweet!*
Samiyah sings (in Common), *With the eyes, or the hands, we started talking. I don’t remember who started talking that day.*

Samiyah slips her hands from the drum for a moment,
Samiyah makes a rolling gracefully gesture with her wrists, her eyes teasing from over the veil.

Samiyah sings (in Common), *But I remember when my eyes landed on you...*

Samiyah's eyes scan the audience for a specific person.

Samiyah sings (in Common), *And in seconds, I found my heart filled with your love...*

Samiyah balances the drum on her knee, lifting the hand that does not maintain the rhythm to clap over her heart, twice, on the beat.

Samiyah sings (in Common), *Ah, ah, love is so sweet!*
Samiyah sings (in Common), *Ah, ah, love is so sweet!*

Samiyah sings (in Common), *I saw you. My heart greeted you. It could do nothing but greet you.*

Samiyah switches hands, clapping her drumming hand over her heart twice, on the beat.

Samiyah sings (in Common), *I embraced your heart, and your eyes said, 'Take me!'*

Samiyah sings (in Common), *I don't know what happened to me. It kept me up all night and I missed dreaming.*

Samiyah glances up, as if at the night sky, her expression wistful.

Samiyah sings (in Common), *Ah, ah, love is so sweet!*
Samiyah sings (in Common), *Ah, ah, love is so sweet!*

Samiyah sings (in Common), *And I found myself telling my soul, 'Don't go away!'*

Samiyah's expression becomes one of longing, and she briefly reaches out with her hand, then returns it to the drum.

Samiyah sings (in Common), *The world laughed for me again and your love filled me.*

Samiyah slides her hand up to her heart, tapping it twice on the beat.

Samiyah sings (in Common), *Ah, ah, love is so sweet!*
Samiyah sings (in Common), *Ah, ah, love is so sweet!*

Samiyah smiles, and drums a quick flourish.
Samiyah rises and curtseys gracefully, her head bent low.

Level 10 Bard Review: Find The Path

Samiyah explains, 'Songs in the tradition of my tribe tell stories, and are a way that the children learn what is expected of them.'
Samiyah explains, 'They form the structure of the world, and set you into your place in it. They explain what is right and wrong.'
Samiyah explains, 'All of your expectations for life, are set forth in these songs. What may be and what is forever forbidden.'
Samiyah bows her head slightly and says quietly, 'This is my answer to them.'

You say (in common), 'I have tried to craft it in the style that I have heard other bards use, mingled with my own tribe's ways.'.

Samiyah settles her drum on her hip.
Samiyah tests the surface of the drum, to ensure it is still sound.
Samiyah nods, the movement causing her veil-charms to chime.
Samiyah adjusts her veil to ensure it is modestly in place.
Samiyah begins to slowly tap out a plaintive, slow beat.

Samiyah drums: Doom-Doom-Teka-Tek, Doom-Teka-Tek!

Samiyah chants, 'Tribal girls, come close and hear'
Samiyah chants, 'heed my words, the laws you fear'
Samiyah chants, 'Bind your heart and shape your soul'
Samiyah chants, 'Obedience their every goal'
Samiyah chants, 'No dissent and no dismay'
Samiyah chants, 'Tribal law the only way'
Samiyah chants, 'Have no joy nor laughter free'
Samiyah chants, 'Pledged to wed by summer three'
Samiyah chants, 'Eyes cast down, your face to veil'
Samiyah chants, 'Obey the words of any male'
Samiyah chants, 'Woman's task to comfort men'
Samiyah chants, 'Breed an heir - again, again'
Samiyah chants, 'Think to change the way of things?'
Samiyah chants, 'Know what your refusal brings:'
Samiyah chants, 'Speak your thoughts and disobey'
Samiyah chants, 'A wicked lash your flesh to flay'
Samiyah chants, 'Mind your eyes and mind your tone'
Samiyah chants, 'Willful girls are struck by stone'
Samiyah chants, 'Shamen speak the words of rite'
Samiyah chants, 'Women's voices are but blight'
Samiyah chants, 'Men uphold the sacred prayers'
Samiyah chants, 'Chanted loud up into air'
Samiyah chants, 'Sacred words on unclean tongue'
Samiyah chants, 'Has the wrath of spirits won'
Samiyah chants, 'Raise your voice in spell or song?'
Samiyah chants, 'Priests will say is only wrong'
Samiyah chants, 'Cast you out and turn their gaze'
Samiyah chants, 'Until at dawn they end your days'
Samiyah chants, 'Name is struck from tribal sight'
Samiyah chants, 'Your body burned that coming night'
Samiyah chants, 'All the laws and all the ways'
Samiyah chants, 'Ensure that every girl-child stays'
Samiyah chants, 'And does her duty to the tribe'
Samiyah chants, 'and never off to sunset ride'
Samiyah chants, 'She stays and serves and breeds and dies'
Samiyah chants, 'And believes each of shaman's lies'
Samiyah chants, 'But past the dunes of endless sands'
Samiyah chants, 'There are a hundred thousand lands'
Samiyah chants, 'And there your voice in song can lift'
Samiyah chants, 'Without their punishment so swift'
Samiyah chants, 'Your choice to veil or wed or breed'
Samiyah chants, 'Your choice in act and thought and deed'
Samiyah chants, 'I've huddled, weeping in my bed,'
Samiyah chants, 'I've heard the words, 'cast out and dead
Samiyah chants, 'I've been Un-named by tribe and chief'
Samiyah chants, 'Yet here I stand and here I speak'
Samiyah chants, 'The tribal way is old, its true..'
Samiyah chants, '...But find the Path that's true for you.'


Samiyah ends her song with a single last abrupt note on her drum.
Samiyah falls silent, then bows her head, causing her veil-charms to chime.

A Song For Aoide

June 22, 2012

An Underground Cavern
[Exits: up]
The scent of wood smoke fills your nostrils as you glance about the rough-
hewn cavern surrounding you. The roof of the cave glitters with the light from
thousands of precious stones embedded deep within the rough stone, each one
catching and reflecting the light of the enormous bonfire that blazes in the
center of the cavern. Piles of furs dot the walls, some occupied by the
Huntress' minions and others empty but oddly inviting. Strings of skulls, both
animal and human, hang from the ceiling against the eastern wall, clattering
and echoing hollowly as a constant breeze emanates from deep within the
cavern. Tendrils of thorny vines writhe against the northern wall behind the
throne, occasionally offering up a glimpse of the large, black thorns that
guard the black roses the Wyldess adores.
(Invis) (Hide) (Light Red Aura) Aoide is here.
(Intense Light Red Aura) Katrana is here.
(Light Red Aura) Ink is here.
(Light Red Aura) (White Aura) Manatheren, hound of the Hunt, lays beside the Wyldess' throne.

Ink closes the rune-covered trapdoor.

Samiyah looks around, her eyes huge.
Samiyah gulps loudly.

Aoide says (in common), 'oh dear, Sami! What have I done to displease you?'.

You say (in common), 'Nothing at all, Lady Ghost.'.
You say (in common), 'in fact...'.

Manatheren watches your movement closely.

Samiyah clears her throat nervously.

Aoide says (in common), 'and don't fear Manatheran. He is kind to friends'.

Ink kicks Manatheren in the ribs and warns him.

Samiyah folds her hands, interlacing her fingers to still their shaking.
Samiyah composes herself, after one quick, flicker of a glance towards The Ghost.

Samiyah gets a wooden gourd rattle from a saddlebag.

Manatheren curls his lip at the Swish.

Samiyah flicks the rattle in a single deliberate, slow-paced stroke, the grains inside making an almost eerie sound.

Samiyah chants softly, 'Like the wind, she is unseen..'
Samiyah chants softly, 'Her presence noted by its effect on others - '
Samiyah chants softly, 'Their spirits like the branches moved in a breeze'

Samiyah flicks the rattle in a single, deliberate stroke, the grains within barely heard.
Samiyah chants quietly, 'Like a spirit, she is silent..'
Samiyah chants quietly, 'The brightness of her voice stilled,'
Samiyah chants quietly, 'Somber words chosen carefully.'

Samiyah flicks the rattle in a single, deliberate stroke, the grains scraping along the inside of the gourd.
Samiyah chants respectfully, 'Like a priestess, she is devout..'
Samiyah chants respectfully, 'Bound by the Three in sacred ritae,'
Samiyah chants respectfully, 'True knowledge of Self awakening.'

Samiyah flicks the rattle in a single, deliberate stroke, the grains whispering against one another and falling silent.
Samiyah lays a hand across her chest, modestly lowers her eyes, and curtseys.

Katrana says, 'Samiyah, that was lovely'.

Ink attempts to blink but can't... where are his eyelids?!

Aoide nods.
Aoide says (in common), 'it was indeed'.

Samiyah puts the rattle away, and again interlaces her fingers.

Ink claps at your performance.

Katrana says, 'Thank you for that performance.'.

You say (in common), 'I wanted to say thank you for all of your help'.

Aoide says (in common), 'I don't think I've ever had something written about me...'.
Aoide says (in common), 'other than the songs I write about myself'.

A Song For Kylor

-May 27, 2012.

Samiyah sings, 'If you dwell within these lands, you'll know of whom I speak'
Samiyah sings, 'You've seen his feats recorded, and the glory that he seeks'
Samiyah sings, 'He's capable, I'll give him that, he swings a mighty sword'
Samiyah sings, 'It's his tongue that cuts the worst, most often when he's bored'

Samiyah sings, 'When winning glory, he's the first, to tell you that he's best'
Samiyah sings, 'He'll take on any task or quest, pursuing without rest'
Samiyah sings, 'But the prize is not enough to salve his ego king'
Samiyah sings, 'A bard he hired - Whistler by name - his latest deeds to sing'

Samiyah sings, 'But song can cut as much as sword, and Bards can sing the truth'
Samiyah sings, 'When malice prompts his actions, then this song will bring reproof'
Samiyah sings, 'Accounting all his deeds so foul would take a day and night'
Samiyah sings, 'Of speaking swiftly, without pause, with quotes of his to cite'

Samiyah sings, 'But words of that foul nature, it is im-pro-per to say'
Samiyah sings, 'For they will earn a silence that will last more than a day'

Portobello chuckles, evidently amused.

Samiyah sings, 'His mouth is like an outhouse, and that cannot be denied'

Violaine raises an eyebrow.

Samiyah sings, 'His targets all who earn his ire, stretching far and wide'

Samiyah sings, 'But it was not his filthy words that earned him this bard's song'
Samiyah sings, 'It was an accusation made, a fact he got plain wrong'
Samiyah sings, 'Accusing slander, without fact, he took upon himself'
Samiyah sings, 'To interfere with this bard, that naughty little elf'

Samiyah sings, 'When corrected, he denied, she must have done that thing!'

Lore throws back his head and cackles with insane glee!

Samiyah sings, 'When proof was brought, he still abjured, so now this bard will sing.'

Samiyah sings, 'There's truth in song, that Whistler knew, recording deeds so great'
Samiyah sings, 'But Bards can sing of malice done, an instrument of Fate'
Samiyah sings, 'So sit, enjoy, and listen to this song of his great works'
Samiyah sings, 'For it will hold another truth - and sometimes truth - it hurts.'

Samiyah sings, 'In swaths of blue, he garbs himself, a ninja, he proclaims'
Samiyah sings, 'But it's his deeds, so often cruel, that his blue aura stains'
Samiyah sings, 'Why any god would want a man so often foul and loud'
Samiyah sings, 'Whose unkind words and disrespect swarm 'round him like a cloud'

Samiyah sings, 'He says that all are cheaters that are not one of his friends'
Samiyah sings, 'He mocks immortals in his name, time and time again'

Violaine gasps in astonishment.

Samiyah sings, 'HE knows -all- that goes on inside the homes of other souls'
Samiyah sings, 'Somehow seeing miles away, and hearing thoughts and goals'

Samiyah sings, 'His bravery is plain to see, hidden beneath a tree'
Samiyah sings, 'His meteors a land to strip, their gear obtained for free'
Samiyah sings, 'His summon works with deadly speed, alas, sometimes too well'
Samiyah sings, 'His target not within his range - but still he casts the spell'

Portobello laughs.

Samiyah sings, 'He takes advantage when a bug allows him to see more'
Samiyah sings, 'And cackles loud to mock and jape as if he's keeping score'

Lore laughs.

Violaine snickers softly.

Samiyah sings, 'A +5 girth, he eq swapped, but Nati, she saw all'
Samiyah sings, 'When caught he mocked and laughed aloud, insulting Nati's call.'
Samiyah sings, '"Busted! Straight up! Caught red handed!" all admitted he'
Samiyah sings, '"It's Hunt's mud," he cried, but meant - "Rules don't apply to me!'

Lore throws back his head and cackles with insane glee!

Samiyah sings, 'And when he's caught, his flouncing off is epic in its tone'
Samiyah sings, 'Sadly though, he's always back, a dog that needs its bone

Samiyah lays a hand across her chest, modestly lowers her eyes, and curtseys.

Ode To A Mushroom

June 9 2012

The Kitchen
[Exits: west]
Any experienced adventurer can tell you that it isn't always easy to
find food. For new adventurers this task is even more difficult.
Originally this room was built to feed those adventurers who could not
do it for themselves. Dues negotiations with guild members forced
cutbacks in the staff and building maintenance so that all that is left
now is a fountain where you can still get a drink.
A small white fountain gushes forth here.

Samiyah clears her throat.
Samiyah says (in common), 'Ode to a Mushroom!'.

Samiyah says (in common), 'Lo! Behold the Mushroom!'.

Samiyah gets a Magic Mushroom from bag made from Samiyah hide.

Samiyah says (in common), 'Pungent and flavorful, it is the food of the Gods,'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'Springing forth unseeded from earth or stone at clerical whim'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'Bringing sustenance and succor to empty bellies the world over'.

Samiyah says (in common), 'Hail the shitaki!'.

Samiyah shakes the mushroom, scattering spores everywhere.

Samiyah says (in common), 'Lo! Behold its tastiness!'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'Stout and meaty, it is favored by many races:'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'Coveted by Dwarves, spitted on sticks, roasted, strung on string'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'Stolen by Halflings, raised in beds within secret tunnels'.

Samiyah says (in common), 'Hail the button!'.

Samiyah gets a string of mushrooms from a bag of Faile hide.
Samiyah pops one into her mouth.

Samiyah says (in common), 'Lo! The Mushroom!'.

Shilea looks at Lexie.

Samiyah says (in common), 'Divine in its succulence, reknowned for its tastiness'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'Known the world round as the savior of the starving'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'Yet somehow: Embodied, ambulatory, and kind - '.

Samiyah says (in common), 'Hail the Portobello!'.

Samiyah grins.

DarkClaw arrives from the west.

Lexie is so excited that she cheers just for the hell of it.

Samiyah says (in common), 'Dedicated to a most kind and generous mushroom, the Hunter Portobello'.

DarkClaw smiles happily.

Shilea is so excited that she cheers just for the hell of it.
Shilea shows her approval by clapping her hands together.
Shilea claps at Samiyah’s performance.
Shilea says (in common), 'Well done!'.

Samiyah blushes, and checks the position of her veil, to ensure it is modestly in place.

Lexie showers Samiyah with confetti!
Lexie says (in common), 'good job!'.

Samiyah says (in common), 'well. I just wanted to say thank you to him. Wherever he is.'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'He's very sneaky, that mushroom'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'comes from growing in the dark, I suspect'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'here, then gone..'.

Shilea stands up.
Shilea nods.

Samiyah says (in common), 'like a fungal ninja.'.

Samiyah nods, the movement causing her veil-charms to chime.

(end log)

A Chant For Avoozl

06-25-12: Samiyah

10 players.
Hum [ Ra:30 Th:30 Cl:30 ] Drakar Grimward, J-Crown Champion of the Nashite Mag
Hum [ Wa:30 Th:30 Ma:30 ] Lexie, Soul Devourer of the Nashite Magi *Teva*
Hum [ Sh:29 Ra:27 Th:25 ] Blackmist Manaba, Headhunter of the Nashite Magi.
Hlf [       Cl:10       ] Fumbln the Bumbln
Hum [ Bard:  17  13  13 ] Samiyah bint Rasul, singer from the sands
Elf [    Lesser  God    ] Boromir, Master of the Nexus
Hel [    Wa:20 Cl:20    ] Melchizedek, holy man and Guard of the Legion
Dwa [     Destroyer     ] Daedalus, Antediluvian Horror of the Nashite Magi*BC*
Ogr [ Wa:30 Tg: 9 Sh:30 ] Avoozl, Soul Torturer of the Nashite Magi  {BOC}
Sah [    Wa:30 Cl:30    ] Uthmar Mal'Havien, War-Cleric of the Nexus.

You tell Avoozl (in common), 'come back?'.

Avoozl arrives from the west.
Avoozl rests.

Avoozl tells you (in common), 'sorry'.
Avoozl tells you (in common), 'ive been mostly afk for last few minutes btw'.

You say (in common), 'Feathers flew, warriors leapt to the fray,'.
You say (in common), 'Quickly slain, to her great dismay'.

You point proudly at yourself.

You say (in common), 'Eyes cast about, who might help?'.

You say (in common), 'Not that human... not that elf.'.

You say (in common), 'The mightiest soul within the land'.

You say (in common), 'Was Avoozl, mighty Ogre man'.

You say (in common), 'When asked for aid, his quick reply:'.

You say (in common), 'Where? and Who? Birds to defy'.

You say (in common), 'In a trice, he was there and back'.

You say (in common), 'And gave her all, with nary a lack'.

You say (in common), 'His title declares a torturer's spite'.

You say (in common), 'But he showed kindness to a bard tonight :)'.

You smile happily.

Avoozl shows his approval by clapping his hands together.
Avoozl says (in common), 'whooot!'.
Avoozl grunts something incomprehensible.

Daedalus grins evilly.

You smile happily.
You say (in common), 'Thank you.'.

Avoozl says (in common), 'thanks for the song!'.

In Praise of Elves

A Commissioned work for Mugen, created and performed on June 27, 2012.

Mugen gives Samiyah the Bar of Mastery.

Samiyah cheers enthusiastically at the way things are going.
Samiyah says (in common), 'thank you so much!!'.

Mugen smiles happily.
Mugen nods.
Mugen looks at you.

Samiyah says (in common), 'is there anything I can do in return?'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'a song, maybe?'.

Mugen says (in common), 'sure'.
Mugen rests.

Samiyah says (in common), 'or a poem?'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'on a topic of your choice?'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'I can make an original composition for you'.

Samiyah wears the Bar of Mastery as a decoration.

Mugen says (in common), 'lets here a poem about the best race, the Elven race'.
Mugen says (in common), 'well'.
Mugen says (in common), 'thats a bit too much'.
Mugen says (in common), 'how about'.
Mugen says (in common), 'how kind the elven people can be'.

Samiyah says (in common), 'I could do that...'.

Mugen says (in common), 'but mighty'.

Samiyah says (in common), 'give me a few moments. :)'.

Mugen nods.

Samiyah gets out a quill and parchment and begins to write.

Mugen says (in common), 'only thing i can write is mad libs or whatever is called'.
Mugen throws back his head and cackles with insane glee!

Samiyah giggles.

Samiyah continues writing quickly.

Samiyah bites the end of the feather, and works on the last few lines.

Wadworth tells Samiyah (in common), 'exp you ask'd me the other night if you have time i am in'.

Samiyah tells Wadworth (in common), 'that would be great! I'm just finishing up a song, and will be ready!'.

Wadworth tells Samiyah (in common), 'nice ok let me know '.

Samiyah says (in common), 'Ready, Mugen?'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'I have your song :)'.

Mugen nods.

Fayil snickers softly.
Fayil logs.

Samiyah sings, 'A thousand thousand years ago, within the greatest Sea'
Samiyah sings, 'Only Elementals dwelled, undying, ever free'
Samiyah sings, 'Until the creatures, great and small, inspired them to seek'
Samiyah sings, 'The truth of death and life's great cost, a mighty spell to speak'
Samiyah sings, 'Thus were the great Hundred born, the first of all the Elves'
Samiyah sings, 'A mighty race, of magic made, spread to the woods and dells'
Samiyah sings, 'Their homes in trees of tow'ring height, a lofty hall to make'
Samiyah sings, 'In north and south, they found a place, for all their children's sake'
Samiyah sings, 'They tended tree and tended vine, and sang their songs of joy'
Samiyah sings, 'And taught their lore and history to each elven girl and boy'
Samiyah sings, 'Their codes of honor, truth and more, their generosity'
Samiyah sings, 'An inspiration to us all, from sea to shining sea'
Samiyah sings, 'The elves have had their Champions - a mortal once, it's said,'
Samiyah sings, 'And they have fought their battles, where the fields were turned to red'
Samiyah sings, 'It's true they fight with courage and with fierceness that is bold'
Samiyah sings, 'But is the kindness of the elves, that echoes in tales told'
Samiyah sings, 'Myronides would tell you that, his race was far the best'
Samiyah sings, 'And Tel-Quessir would challenge all, to put that to the test'
Samiyah sings, 'Nowadays, the Elven Race are spread throughout the land'
Samiyah sings, 'And kindness and nobility come often from their hands'
Samiyah sings, 'So if you seek the aid of one, to fight a battle true'
Samiyah sings, 'Don't look to aura for your guide, don't seek just red or blue'
Samiyah sings, 'Look to the heart, and to the blood, look past the race of men'
Samiyah sings, 'And seek an Elf, to aid your cause - you'll find a Hero, then!'

Samiyah lays a hand across her chest, modestly lowers her eyes, and curtseys.

Mugen stands up.
Mugen is so excited that he cheers just for the hell of it.
Mugen says (in common), 'great work! a masterpiece!'.

Samiyah puts her parchment and quill and ink away.

Samiyah blushes, and checks the position of her veil, to ensure it is modestly in place.

Samiyah says (in common), 'well, I don't know about a masterpiece, but..'.
Samiyah says (in common), 'it was at least on topic! :)'.

Mugen chuckles, evidently amused.
Mugen says (in common), 'it was great, thanks for the song'.

Samiyah says (in common), 'Thank you for your generous gift'.

Mugen says (in common), 'no problem!'.

Level 15 Bard Review: The Lady Elemental

Performed 07/03/2012

You say (in common), 'In far off realms, a Queen was born, K'chana was her name'.
You say (in common), 'She birthed a child, both fair and cold: Aurora, Ryche's Bane'.
You say (in common), 'Who stripped the kingdom of its life, abandoned like a toy,'.
You say (in common), 'Then found a man, k'Treva clan, and briefly shared his joy.'.

You say (in common), 'She birthed a child, bright heaven's Star - alas, this drew the eye'.
You say (in common), 'Leareth, grand-sire, to the girl - soul called, he gathered nigh'.
You say (in common), 'Imprisoned he, the little babe: he'd force her to his will!'.
You say (in common), 'Though winters passed and summers too, she ere resisted still'.

You say (in common), 'At last! Escape! She fled as swift as doe within the fields'.
You say (in common), 'to Kayrron's busy streets to hide, to charity's kind yields'.
You say (in common), 'Draven took her 'neath his wing, gave clothes and food and roof,'.
You say (in common), 'They fell in love, the passion sweet, their loving trust the proof'.

You say (in common), 'But for a false claim that was made, her love was taken fast - '.

DarkClaw sighs and closes her eyes briefly.

You say (in common), 'Set to die at morning's dawn - she fled before the axe'.
You say (in common), 'Broken hearted, left Kayrron, to dark Varinesa Keep,'.
You say (in common), 'There she vowed her penance long, a living death to reap'.

You say (in common), 'A Gangrel's bite was all it took to shed her mortal coil'.
You say (in common), 'Black-tiger form, undeath reborn, eternity to toil'.
You say (in common), 'Again, she fled, this unskilled fledge, her hunger-reddened gaze'.
You say (in common), 'Found solace, safety, 'midst the bats, hid deep within a cave'.

You say (in common), 'Awakened by the Kindred-Lord, her vow of worship sworn,'.
You say (in common), 'Became the siren of the night, a lure to all men born'.
You say (in common), 'Yet, toys were they, those bumbling fools, who sought to win her heart'.
You say (in common), 'She dallied at her whim and wish -- seduction was her art'.

You say (in common), 'Oh there were those whose love professed, did move immortal soul'.
You say (in common), 'And twice she vowed to faithful wed, happiness her goal'.
You say (in common), 'But time and time and time again, her broken heart would break'.
You say (in common), 'and men fell by the wayside as the toll of time would take'.

You say (in common), 'The greatest loss she felt those years, was not a lover's cost'.
You say (in common), 'But Ascension of Lord Khore - the Kindred bond was lost'.
You say (in common), 'Chaos marked her decade-spans, as loyalties were gained'.
You say (in common), 'And vows were offered to the gods, a Hawk, an Angel made'.

You say (in common), 'Chosen for a span, then gone, a vow given to Bliss,'.
You say (in common), 'in Rhina's tree, some peace - and then, a Booga stole a kiss'.

DarkClaw chuckles, evidently amused.

You say (in common), 'Long ascended to the heights of mortal span achieved,'.
You say (in common), 'A dream of crafting her OWN home, within the Pattern weaved'.

You say (in common), 'So to her hero, Tynian, prayed, and pled and made her case'.
You say (in common), 'Then she arose to Heavens bright, her mortal days erased'.
You say (in common), 'She taught the young, then learned among the Phantom's dark Magi'.
You say (in common), 'The Elements had called to her: the sun, the earth, the sky'.

You say (in common), 'She swore to them, to be their voice, to teach all of their way'.
You say (in common), 'And Matriarch became in truth, for near a thousand days'.
You say (in common), 'But fickle fate led her away, her Chylder left behind'.

Mutex arrives from the west.

You say (in common), 'Years passed - return, unsure - of whom that she might find'.

You say (in common), 'Our Lady! cried her faithful friends, Betrayed! cried earth and air'.
You say (in common), 'They lashed in pain and anger bright, no longer in her care'.
You say (in common), 'So Lost, she wanders, crimson-souled, she seeks what is denied'.
You say (in common), 'Deloi, Vindr, Adurna, Gath... Brisingr and her pride'.

You say (in common), 'Until that day, she gathers close the Lost of all this world'.
You say (in common), 'Some ancient souls, some newly born - her banner is unfurled.'.
You say (in common), 'Ebrithil yet still a light, the leaders of her cause'.
You say (in common), 'They give out pain, confusion, fear, yet also speak her laws'.

You say (in common), 'To Her care, they give her all: their strength and honor true'.
You say (in common), 'If your soul to Her is drawn, then Lost's the home for you!'.

Samiyah curtseys before the Lady DarkClaw.

The Tower of Sorcery

Performed on July 11, 2012

A cold gust of wind blows through you unexpectedly, chilling you to the core.

Doc says (in common), 'If I wasnt here, I'd be some place much less important'.

Boromir ruffles Doc's hair playfully.

>shiver
Brrrrrrrrr.

Samiyah lays a hand across her chest, modestly lowers her eyes, and curtseys.

Doc showers someone with confetti!

Samiyah laces her fingers together, clasped before her, to still their shaking.

Samiyah nods in acknowledgement to those present, and begins.

Samiyah chants, As a bard, I'm bid to walk the breadth of all this land.
Samiyah chants, I've sailed across the waters and I've travelled where I can.

Samiyah chants, Seek out places, that I must, in towns and forests deep.
Samiyah chants, in shining cities and the woods, where giant spiders creep.

>shiver
Brrrrrrrrr.

Samiyah chants, I've swam among the fishies - but admit that's very rare -
Samiyah chants, The Tempest finds bards toothsome, so I very seldom dare.

Samiyah chants, I've forded streams and climbed the hills so dark and misty cold.
Samiyah chants, I wouldn't say I'm brave at all, but with some help, I'm bold!

Samiyah grins, glancing through those gathered for some of her friends.

Samiyah chants, Some places make me shudder at the thought of going there.
Samiyah chants, (A witch's hut, Sahaugin halls, and Rivers of Dispair)

Samiyah chants, But if I'm quick enough and quaff, a potion that is true.
Samiyah chants, I won't wind up inside a pot, made into Ogre stew.

You wince. Ouch!

Samiyah chants, But thrice, my steps were urgent bid, to travel to a place.
Samiyah chants, That's guarded by a Phantom who is of the elven race.

Samiyah chants, I know not why the gods have sent this little bard to see.
Samiyah chants, The spectacle within the walls of Tow'r of Sorcery.

Samiyah's voice loses its bouncy tone, growing solemn and respectful.

Samiyah chants, I crept inside and fled right quick, not wanting to profane.
Samiyah chants, Each time I went, I asked before if some bore Magi's name.

Samiyah chants, No wish to trespass there at all, I quickly came and went.
Samiyah chants, No harm by me intended: but a bard must go where sent.

Samiyah's tone is apologetic and sincere.

Jaerith arrives from the west.

Samiyah chants, I begged forgiveness of the only soul that I could see.
Samiyah chants, And was set a task by him - a rhyme composed by me.

Samiyah chants, To sing the praises of the place that Drakar calls his home.
Samiyah chants, But it's filled with icy winds that chill me to the bone.

>shiver
Brrrrrrrrr.

Samiyah chants, Massive doors to block the way, though whether to or from.
Samiyah chants, The scent of ancient candles - and the slighest touch of rum'

Samiyah chants, There's many fancy tapestries - Lord Nash and then the Lich.
Samiyah chants, The sight of all the bookshelves makes my eager fingers itch.

Samiyah chants, No place of gentle rest or site of merry-making loud.
Samiyah chants, But a spot for Nashite rites where all the heads are bowed.

Samiyah chants, There's dais of black marble that is topped with gleaming throne.
Samiyah chants, And a mural on the wall that shifts and moves and ..um.. moans.
Samiyah blushes, stammering over that last word.
Samiyah regains her composure and continues.

Samiyah chants, Portraits hanging here and there - above, a glassy dome.

Samiyah's voice drops to a low hush of horror and fear as she continues.

Samiyah chants, I think I sensed unsettled dead, condemned by death to roam.

Samiyah chants, A magic circle, crimson-red, to bind, or cleanse or keep'
Samiyah chants, A mirror to the soul of those to him an Oath would speak.

Samiyah chants, The Laws of Nash inscribed within a dozen or more books.
Samiyah chants, I must confess the shelves received more than just a look.

Samiyah chants, Discipline, respect and knowledge, all required of He.
Samiyah chants, So much within those crystal vaults for an eye to see.

Samiyah takes a calming breath and continues resolutely.

Samiyah chants, I honor Drakar's wish: to chant, and speak of what I saw.
Samiyah chants, And though I'm not an aura-blue, my word is but my law.

Samiyah chants, He asked if I was curious, to learn of Nash's ways.
Samiyah chants, But I am of the desert tribe, until my end of days.

Samiyah chants, My vow to Mother, always kept: I cannot give an oath.
Samiyah chants, To love a man or worship Gods - I am forbidden both.

Samiyah chants, Still, I honor all of those who swear His oath to keep.
Samiyah chants, But start to think that Nashites will give me a cause to weep.

Samiyah's voice breaks, her dark eyes welling up from behind concealing linen.
Samiyah carefully does not look to see if two particular Magi are present.

Samiyah chants, Destroyer speaks: to end my life, and strip away my veil.
Samiyah chants, And leave me naked, shuddering, my form cold, still and pale.

Samiyah chants, 'Orgrim's rift and vicious whip, reminded me today'
Samiyah chants 'That life is frail and death is close and barely held at bay'

Samiyah breaks off speaking entirely for a moment, shivering, then struggles to regain her composure.
Samiyah swallows hard and continues, her voice quiet.

Samiyah chants, Perhaps it is precursor, or a warning - that makes sense,
Samiyah chants, My death to them is Destiny, or Chance's recompense -

Samiyah chants, If these journeys are a clue of what will be my Fate.
Samiyah chants, I hope that death becomes me, and his lust for blood abate.

Samiyah's voice softens, an almost desperately hopeful, pleading note to it.

Samiyah chants, But that is of the future, which is never writ in stone -
Samiyah chants, Still it creeps into my thoughts and sets a worried tone.

Samiyah chants, If my steps to Tow'r return, I pray no offense take.
Samiyah chants, For each time, permission asked, apologies to make.

Samiyah leans forward, her body language showing her sincerity.

Samiyah chants, I do not seek to ere defile or ever disrespect.
Samiyah chants, Or rouse the ire of Nashites should our path ere intersect.

Samiyah chants, So this chant I speak with truth, and with the chant I've made.
Samiyah chants, My duty discharged, vow complete, my debt to Drakar paid.

Samiyah sits down abruptly, her shaking legs no longer willing to support her.
Samiyah makes an odd little bow, as if a curtsey, while sitting.

Boromir 07/11/12

*clap* very well done!

Doc 07/11/12

I shed a tear in my beer.

The Phantom 07/11/12

Well done. Your debt to Drakar is paid. I will trust his judgement in this.

Why Bards Are A Waste of Time

Commissioned by Anduin*.
Posted to the Forum on July 24, 2012.

World shaped by whim: it's a dangerous thing
To give up such power to those that just sing
Tynian's time - precious, rarer than gold
Was foolishly spent on those pioneers bold
Like Oook, Adja, Cadee, on Chylder and Fling
Faite, Gheorghe and Huglak, what good do they bring?
Better He'd focused on fixing what's there
Psionisists mental, barbarians scare
Or making Thugs nifty, 'cause right now they're lame
Instead, it's these singers, all seeking great fame
He should have spent code-time adjusting the spells
of Shamans and Clerics ('cause mages are swell)
That hunt-code for places and monsters galore
As much of a waste as a lyrical score
The world's not enriched by a rhyme or a song -
When so much of TFC's just coded wrong!
Combat more easy, with eq galore!
A-re-na battles with arch-mobs and more!
Not gathering songs for some halfling to hum!
Yes, really and truly, the bard class is dumb!
Roleplay is stupid - a waste of His time!
(An ironic message hired out in this rhyme)
Yes, Anduin's right, we should delete the bards
Success for this class just's not in the cards
(Besides, they're too sneaky, all hidey-in-place
That Eathor guy could be right in your face!)
And that combat! It's silly! All kicking and slaps,
Weapons are wielded, with crushes and whacks!
So better you listen to what he hired said
And hasten the day that the bard class is dead!

• Please note that this in no way, shape, or form describes my own personal thoughts on the Bard Class. - Sami
  • Please note that Anduin hasn't reviewed this song prior to publication, so it it may not accurately reflect his thoughts, either.

Eathor July 2012

I was extremely sad when I read the beginning of this song, but then I was extremely happy when I got to the end of it! Thank you Sami!! - Eathor the sneaky in your face Bard!

A Love Letter From A Thief

(08/03/12: Ink's quest, placing first in the Challenge - Seeking the Most Creative)

You hold a small black book in your hands.

Samiyah opens a small black book and glances again at Villon over its pages.
Samiyah reads, 'Dearest Eiren:'.
Samiyah reads, 'I admit it - I'm not always a good man. '.

Samiyah glares at Villon once more, then continues.

Samiyah reads, 'I have cheated at games of chance, I have stolen, I have poached the King's deer, '.
Samiyah reads, 'I have lied. . . But I have not ever spoken false about how I feel about you. '.
Samiyah reads, 'Like any man, my pride was hurt when you ran. '.
Samiyah reads, 'I did not follow. I should have. I have wandered since that day, always trying to find my way home -'.

Samiyah's voice softens, and you can almost hear the wistful longing in her voice, that someone might hold such thoughts.

Samiyah reads, '- but home is not a place anymore -- it is carried within you. '.
Samiyah reads, 'You have filled my days, always in the back of my mind, and filled my nights, haunting my dreams. '.
Samiyah reads, 'Without you, I am restless, seeking distraction and danger. '.

Samiyah reads, 'When we courted, I gave you a gift. Perhaps you still have it? '.
Samiyah reads, '(If so, I can only take that as a good sign!) '.
Samiyah reads, 'It was a key to a fabled treasure - because that is what you were to me. '.
Samiyah reads, 'A treasure I hoped to keep safe always. More precious than any gem I have stolen or any purse I have cut. '.
Samiyah reads, 'Yes, I know - you don't like what I do. But I'm not a bad man, I just do bad things sometimes. '.

The bard again glances at Villon over the pages of the book as she reads, her voice tinged with admonishment.

Samiyah reads, 'Perhaps with your fine example, I can do better...? '.
Samiyah reads, 'No, you're right, I probably won't walk the path of goodness, but won't you have fun trying to set me on it?'.
Samiyah reads, 'I thought long and hard on what gift I could give, that would show you my heart. '.
Samiyah reads, 'Trinkets and baubles and valuables, you might think I had stolen. '.
Samiyah reads, 'Magic - well, your people do that far better than any mortal man. '.
Samiyah reads, 'I settled on something simple: the seeds within this apple. '.

Samiyah holds aloft an apple, crimson and ripe.

Samiyah reads, 'You have no orchards of apples in your home village '.
Samiyah reads, '- I know, I wandered through the town late one night, wanting to learn this place that is so precious to you '.
Samiyah reads, 'and see if there was room for me in it - but your people do love growing things. '.

Samiyah's voice softens once more as she continues.

Samiyah reads, 'Theres a spot where one of the big trees fell that would make a good spot for a house and a garden '.
Samiyah reads, 'and an apple tree or two. That is, if you dont mind living on the ground instead of high in the air. '.
Samiyah reads, 'Perhaps the seeds of this apple can grow into something new in your world '.
Samiyah reads, 'and as they grow, the trees could be a reminder of my love and willingness to grow with you.'.

Samiyah's voice is quiet. Pleading.

Samiyah reads, 'Give me another chance.'.
Samiyah reads, 'Yours,'.
Samiyah reads, ' Villon'.

Samiyah closes the book and looks over at the thief, then tosses him the apple.

Ink's jaw drops to the floor.

Aoide says (in common), 'That was beautiful, Sami.'.

Ink says (in sahuagin), 'wow.'.

Villon nods to Samiyah.

Level 20 Bard Review: The Baroness' Lament

Commissioned by Soloban, performed for level 20 Bard Review on 08/16/12.

Part I: The Curse

My tale is of unholy vows, sworn for pride of man
A bargain made, a cost too deep, an evil, evil plan
Marel wished to ever live and slip the grasp of Fate
But pride it goes before a fall, and curses ne'er abate

Cale had heard the Baron's words, whispered into night
And rode up to the castle, giving all the guards a fright
His cowl was drawn and face obscured, his voice in ancient tongue
Demand to see the Castle's lord: the bargain was begun

No record of that meeting first - or mention of the sums
The gold to buy a pass from Death - just hidden from the sun -
A week to pass and then return, agreement then to bind
But deals with devils rarely work - this Marel came to find

A sharp scent of brimstone and sulfur wafts across your senses.

A single candle lit allowed, a glass of vintage old
The chests of loot were stacked up high, all glittering and gold
With wave of hand, Cale dismissed all - another favor asked:
And shuddering, the Baron bid a guardsman to that task

A child to fetch, from village near, awakened from his bed
The order came - defied at first - but then the Baron fed.
His teeth did not pierce young flesh - it was a soul he drank -
and vigor fled the child's corpse, fast rotting, cold and rank

Marel screamed! How could he not? The horror all too bright -
A guard burst in, and grasped by Cale, his screams to join the night
Smoke and ash whirled all around, as he cast the spell
And crafted from the body a foul canine straight from Hell

A foul scent of decay fills your nostrils, causing you to gag.

A hound was born, of fire and ash, with eyes of embers red
And Marel moaned and pissed himself, blubbered and he beg'd
"Take it back!" he cried out loud, "This isn't what I sought!
I wanted love eternal, not this curse that you have wrought!"

Cale just laughed and sauntered out, leaving him to scream
And wish that it had all just been a single evening's dream
But nightly, thirst returned to him, and nightly he would feed
For Marel lacked the strength and will to deny himself the need

He lurked amidst the houses of the village at the gate
Slew man and child and woman all - his thirst would not abate
But one he kept away at cost - his wife he would not see
He fought to save her mortal soul, her life his only plea

You hear distant singing, in a soft contralto, the words a lullaby.

The hound emerged from shadows thick, her wrist caught in his maw
She begged and screamed for mercy, until her throat was raw
He locked himself into a tower, to keep from feeding deep,
And threw himself from battlements, a final death to seek

Landing hard, his shattered bones were piercing through his flesh
And hound appeared to drag him back, each wound remained as fresh
Time flowed past, he lost all track, night seeping into night
But fed from those the hound would bring, unwilling now to fight

Her cries of pain and anguish as he drank her soul at last
Stripped his last humanity - true curse had come to pass
Then weeping, sobbing, crying out, he laid her in her bed
And gently brushed her golden hair, and gently kissed her head

The air goes still and quiet, as if the sound of a child wailing was suddenly stilled.

The cradle by her bedside was an empty wooden shell
Their son was gone and sent away, from parents living hell
He smashed this sign of sons escape, flung shards beneath her bed
Intending that his bloodline would be thought as being dead

Cale appeared, a smirking smile, the hellhound at his heel
But not in time to learn of aught the shards might have revealed.
"Everything is lost" he heard, as Marel cried aloud
"Youve taken all I loved from me," his tone completely cowed

"But all I did, was what you asked!" replied the cowled one
"Just tell me what you want from me and it will sure be done!"
"I want the hunger foul to stop! I want to see her eyes!"
"I want to hear her songs again, beneath the daylit skies!"

Anguish washes over you: the weight of foul deeds, selfishness, loathing...

"Done!" replied the sneering Cale, "You only had to ask,"
Marel turned to see his bride if Cale had done this task.
A band of diamonds, blue of course the very same deep hue
And the lilt of singing notes, sounding pure and true

But still she laid, and still was dead, until with shudder woke
And when she gazed upon him, it was these words she spoke:
"I am hungry..."

Samiyah pauses in her recitation, unable to finish that stanza, the horror clear in her eyes.
Samiyah gathers herself and skips to the next.

Laughing at their horror, Cale paused as he turned to go.
"Why so sad, Marel and bride? You asked for this, you know.."
"Who are you?" begged the Baron cold, "How can you do such things?"
"Im 'Caleneezer, of the Void - I am the Demons King!"

A foul echoing laughter grates across your senses as he names Himself.

Part II: Rebirth

Years would pass, the two as one, for in that Cale spoke truth
And slew they every villager, each traveler, each youth
Word spread wide, of curses foul, of blight within those stones
Of screams that filled the twilit sky, of agonizing groans

Good clerics came from all around, then Paladins and more
But with every nightfall dark the Baron was restored
His hunger would not ere abate, he always had to feed
But ever was his deepest wish - that all of them succeed

Madness swept away all thoughts, save anger and his rage
He walked alone, avoiding Her, kept locked up in a cage
In time he thought - it is not she! My lovely wife's reborn
I'll find her soul in her next life - embrace her mortal form

The slightest hint of floral perfume wafts through the air.

His sorcery very strong by now, he cast a widened net
And settled on a lovely girl, with crimson soul no less
Silonch of Conclave, he convinced, surely bore her soul
To have her love and have her kiss - this was his only goal

So sent her dreams and whispered spells, to lure her close at hand
Until, a twist of Maurice-fate - She recalled to his lands
Stumbling blindly, screaming fear, the hellhounds nipped her heels
Into the maddened Baron's grip... where her fate was sealed.

A kiss upon her cherry lips, a bite upon her throat
He stole a bit of life but then - he cast her 'cross the moat
"I will not lose my love again! You must not die today!"
But still he whispered Cale's curse half-begging her to stay.

You hear Silonch's death cry! Her mortal shell is quickly caught up and carried away by an Arch-Mage...

Little did he know her heart was lost - enchantment 'round it first
She to love another, but the same devotion not reversed.
Vecna owned Silonch's heart, played with it like a toy
He found her love amusing but it didn't bring him joy

Another loved Silonch, it's true - and Tripper was his name
One night he stole a kiss from her, and never was the same
His own wife gone, so long ago, and lonely he had been
But she forbade his lips or heart to e're touch hers again

Marel - enraged! - how could this fop lay claim to what is mine!?
There had to be another way - he swore that he would find
Years would pass, until a chance, a deal that he could make
In exchange to cast a spell - a memory he'd take

The gentlest brush of lips on lips.. the scent of her perfume.. maddening in its exquisiteness.

In exchange for stealing this - the mem'ry Tripper held
He whispered enchants, binding eyes to Talmud with a spell
Gloating, sneering, threatening all the Chosen gathered near
He muttered threats - but Weaver said: "My people, have no fear."

With a gesture, cast him out, enveloping him in flame
Yet, as always, with the night, he rose and lived again
Plotting ever, mind awash, with plans to win her back
He schemed to win Silonch's love, or perish from its lack

Decades turned to centuries, his plots they came to naught
For Lady's soul was not reborn - and She her hunger fought
He was not the only one to ancient sorc'ry seek:
For while he failed, his Lady won - her magic at its peak

The purity and depth of a mother's love for her child washes over you, humbling and profound.

Part III: The Family Curse

The Lady whispered one last spell, a statis-bind released
Though many decades we all knew, her babe knew only weeks
Grew he then to manhood, in some lands not far away
All the while a-dreaming of the place that he would stay

It was a bright homecoming, when he travelled through the Bog
Finding traces of a town, and ashen-coated dog
It was the work of many years, to hire, threat and bribe
Sufficient people to his task: a worker, vintner, scribe

Fortunate, the aid unsought, by simple stranger lent
Cale, he called himself - so shy - an unassuming gent!
Gold will win their work, he said, and fear will rule their mind
For peasants cannot see the goal - it's simple and sublime

A chill arrogance sweeps over you, wiping away any trace of kindness or gentility.

Take what you want, the stranger said, rule with an iron fist
So the son did as he willed - he broke, he killed, he kissed
One girl, she tried resist his charms, she dared to say him Nay
His rage was hot, his eyes like coals - he knew he'd make her pay

Her broken body lay before his feet, rimmed round with blood
And Cale, he laughed to see her laid like rubbish in the mud
A woman's voice came weeping, then, her song become a scream
A mother's pain, to see her son, more nightmare than a dream

His eyes flashed round to find the source of unseen voice's pain
And caught a glimpse of form and shape he'd ne'er see again
Her shattered heart was broken by this evil by consent
And in his ears forever sounds the Baroness' Lament

A high, keening wail of broken hopes and agony rips through your senses, driving you mad.

Battered by her voice of hurt, he could not block the sound
No matter how he drown'd his woes, all sprawled upon the ground
The vine could not give mercy sweet, no vintage dulled away
The shame of knowing Mother's loss and disappoint that day

He tried to act with mercy and to right who he had wronged
But merchants ceased to come along where once they always thronged
Cale appeared, convenient-like, and whispered once again:
For else could say they'd been there, and had ever been a friend?

"Don't let weakness fill your heart, to love is just to lose"
These whispered words were balm at last - the mother's cries to soothe
Nodding swiftly, son agreed, oath bound in blood and ground,
Cale just smiled, and crafted him his very own hellhound...

The dying screams of a grape stomper fill the night as she is unwillingly transformed...
...and the curse lives anew.

Silonch 08/20/12

Oh! That was lovely. Thank you for sharing it with me!

The Hunters' Call

Commissioned by Tes

Midnight spread across the land, it turned from day to night.
A hunting horn, its dreadful peal, was cause for sudden fright.
Her ringing laughter, joyful glee, the Hounds leapt to Her heel.
They circled all around Her, and then as one - a kneel.
"OUR LADY! WYLDESS!" they cried, exhultant in their tone.
They lifted Her upon a throne of palest solid bone.
My lovelies all! My weasel-boys! My Docster and my Swarf!"
"Wunkathew and Snugglykins! My Huntsman's wicked bark!"
"Gather round my pack, my Kin, the Wyld Hunt's Reborn!"
The world's our prey, now set to hunt!" then sounded on Her horn.
Its peal was heard around the globe, and blues in bed asleep.
Were filled with dread and horror as the Hunt their Prey did seek.
But Cecil stood up firmly and He raised a mighty sword.
"I'll not conceed the peace to you!" and gathered up a horde.
Celeste and Kylor, Iggwilv, too, plus Miki, and Padrone.
Stood against the Wyld Horde, to fight them from their home.
Few withstood the dark onslaught Katrana's Hunters' brought.
They chased their prey through alleyways and in the temples fought.
They bounded through the forests and they clambered up the trees.
Then giggled as they watched their prey continually flee.
And with each Thread they cut, they blessed them in Rebirth.
And laughing, happy, in the Hunt, no malice - just with mirth.
Until their foes, so limp of sword, turned to a blade of tongue.
And used cold words to scorn, accuse, and rip away the fun.
Katrana in Her Mercy offered up a Law of Threes.
But Cecil said, "Not if you begged and pled upon your knees!"
"We scorn to take this Oath you give, we do not need its kind."
"We'd rather stay upon high horse, and take what we can find!"
The Lady Wyld She shrugged and smiled, and whispered to her boys.
"That's okay, we'll play with them - they make fantastic toys."
She giggled like a little child, she pointed and she said:
"Now hunt them without mercy, boys, until they all are dead."
One Wyldling jumped up and down, chaotic to his soul.
"My Lady! Making you just smile - it is my only goal!"
"I'll Hunt them 'til they're weary and I'll hunt them 'til they cry..."
"I'll Hunt them 'til at last they leave without a sole goodbye!"
Tes bounded forth, his Prey to find, without a backward glance.
And if you don't check your who'zone, then you take an awful chance.
For this wee shaman loves to send a ghost or two to bite.
He loves each battle and gives praise to Wyld with every fight.
So listen to this ditty and remember this Bard's song.
Yes, many fight the Wyld Hunt--- but very few for long!

The Goat Song

Performed at The Slumber Party held in Hutt's Temple on 09/05/12

Samiyah pulls out a small clay ocarina and puts it to her lips, giving a slight trill of notes.
Samiyah explains, 'That's the noise we'd use to call the goats in from pasture.'

Samiyah tucks the ocarina into the sash at her waist.

Samiyah says with embarrassment, 'So.. I ...um..used to sing for the goats when I was tending them out in the field...'

Natilena grins happily.

You say (in common), 'They seemed to like it, and they minded me better than the other children, so I did it a lot. . .'.
You say (in common), 'just not when anyone other than a goat would hear it!'.

Samiyah scuffs her foot along the floor, her eyes refusing to meet yours.

Natilena hugs you.

Samiyah blushes above her veil and stammers out a little sing-songy rhyme.
Samiyah begins to sing, bouncing slightly on her heels to the tune.

Samiyah sings, 'Greedy little goatsies wand'ring 'cross the sand!
Samiyah sings, 'eating all the grasses, just because you can!
Samiyah sings, 'You would eat my shoeses, you would eat a tree!
Samiyah sings, 'You would eat that carrion, or even! eat! me!

Samiyah bounces slightly on the balls of her feet, unconcious of the movement.

Cremini giggles.

Samiyah sings, 'Noisy little goatsies, you are oh so loud!

Natilena laughs.

Samiyah sings, 'Bleating at the stars, oh what a noisy crowd!
Samiyah sings, 'Butting heads then whining, when your head is hurt.
Samiyah sings, 'Sell you to the nomads, Noisy! Inna! Yurt!

Samiyah sings, 'Busy little goatsies, please lay down and rest!
Samiyah sings, 'you should be asleep, so to be at your best.
Samiyah sings, 'Even if you count sheep, just to help you fall,
Samiyah sings, 'I won't tell your mommas, Goto! Sleep! All!

Natilena grins happily.

Samiyah softens her tone down to a whisper, extending her hands in a gesture of quiet.

Samiyah sings, 'Sweetest little goatsies, now you all at rest.
Samiyah sings, 'When you're simply quiet, when I like you best.
Samiyah sings, 'Sleep until the morning, do not stir awake.
Samiyah sings, 'Back to greener pastures, Sami-girl! Will! Take!

Samiyah sings, 'Baddest little goatsies! Stop your wander-un!'
Samiyah sings, 'Straying off oasis, under angry sun'
Samiyah sings, 'Scorpion'll getcha! Cry when you are stung!'
Samiyah sings, 'So stay close, my goatsies, 'Til! My song! Is done!'

Samiyah blushes, and checks the position of her veil, to ensure it is modestly in place.

Natilena giggles.

You say (in common), 'so... I was.. um.. six.. when I wrote that..'.

Samiyah scuffs her foot on the floor, blushing.

Hutt claps at your performance.

A funny little bunny arrives from a puff of smoke.

Cremini laughs.

You say (in common), 'but that was The Goat Song.'.

A funny little bunny claps at your performance.

Samiyah lays a hand across her chest, modestly lowers her eyes, and curtseys.

Natilena says, 'it was perfect!'.

You say (in common), 'and you really could substitute 'boysies' for parts of it..'.

Natilena says, 'i was thinking that the whole time'.

Hutt nods.

You giggle.

Level 25 Bard Review: The Soul-Stealer's Song

You say (in common), 'This performance needs some explanation.'.

Natilena nods.

You say (in common), 'It was commissioned - of a sort - '.
You say (in common), 'and it is an endeavor to tell a complex tale.'.

More sits down and thinks deeply.

You say (in common), 'Not all of it is kind.'.
You say (in common), 'Though I warned the one who required it, that they might not like what they heard.'.

You say (in common), '(one sec, cat approachign keyboard)'.

DarkClaw laughs.

More snickers softly.

Boromir cheers the cat on.

You say (in common), '(sorry)'.

You say (in common), 'the tale unfolds thusly...'.

Samiyah recites, 'As my steps have travelled 'round the world for many years '
Samiyah recites, 'I've seen some acts of cruelty, come face to face with fears '
Samiyah recites, 'I've heard of foulest tortures and I've witnessed blood and pain '
Samiyah recites, 'Been exposed to death and horror, time and time a-gain '

Samiyah recites, 'But mortal terrors pale before Immortal threat of wrath '
Samiyah recites, 'A note demanded that I write - a song of Seraph's past '
Samiyah recites, 'Polite, my re-ply, but was firm: Of you, I cannot sing '
Samiyah recites, 'For your deeds are never fair, you only mis'ry bring '

Samiyah recites, 'I thought the matter ended, 'til I saw a wicked grin '
Samiyah recites, 'He backed me to a corner, laughed, and said in voice of sin, '
Samiyah recites, '"What would be worse - harming you? - or all that you hold dear? '
Samiyah recites, 'Now tell my tale, oh little bard, or they'll have cause to fear." '

Samiyah recites, 'He knelt before me, wings pulled back, and looked me in the eyes '
Samiyah recites, 'And ran a finger down my cheek, a threat in kindness' guise '
Samiyah recites, ' "So will you do this thing for me?" he asked with voice so cold '
Samiyah recites, 'I stammered yes, my friends to guard, that he not steal a soul. '

Samiyah recites, 'Thus angrily, surrendered will, agreeing to his task '
Samiyah recites, 'But swore I wouldn't write a word, until I knew his past '
Samiyah recites, 'He smirked and nodded, told his tale, then ordered me to write '
Samiyah recites, 'I shook my head, refusing, having not learned all I might '

Samiyah recites, 'I wouldn't let _his_ answers be the sum of all I learned '
Samiyah recites, 'Re-searched, read, and interviewed, and studied pages turned '
Samiyah recites, 'Until at last, was ready, and to paper, quill I put '
Samiyah recites, ' 'Til pages filled and ink was spilled, my fingers stained like soot '

Samiyah turns over her hands, revealing the evidence.

Samiyah recites, 'I've scratched out lines and crumpled pages, disatisfied with all '
Samiyah recites, 'My efforts, words could not contain, encompassed in a scrawl '
Samiyah recites, 'But here and now, present to you, the tale of Seraph's life '
Samiyah recites, 'No pleasantries, no happy end - it is a work of strife. '

Samiyah takes a deep breath and continues.

Samiyah recites, 'The being known as Seraph was once but a frightened boy '
Samiyah recites, 'Abandoned by his family, no happiness or joy '
Samiyah recites, 'A life of thiev'ry on the street, oft' beaten when he failed '
Samiyah recites, 'His master was a bastard brute, who truly should be jailed '

Samiyah recites, 'Then one day, a task was set, to thieve a weapon-smith '
Samiyah recites, 'And failing, he was snatched right up, clenched in an ogre's fist '
Samiyah recites, 'They beat him with a metal chain, and whips 'til almost dead '
Samiyah recites, 'Then heated up an iron fork, burned eyes out from his head '

You shudder from the sheer thought of it.

Samiyah recites, 'The eyes are naught, or so they say, but windows to the soul '
Samiyah recites, 'That child screamed and all went black - the peace of death his goal '
Samiyah recites, 'But lifted up, into a light, and there an "angel" stood '
Samiyah recites, ' "I feel the hate inside of you, and absence there of good." '

Samiyah recites, 'Into that corpse, the "angel" breathed, returning gift of life '
Samiyah recites, 'And sent him back, to earthly plane, to sow a path of strife '
Samiyah recites, 'Souls to steal and souls to take, for souls kept him alive '
Samiyah recites, 'The first to fall was Marion, the death he did contrive '

Samiyah recites, 'Soon thereafter, he was found, by Kerri in the Dark '
Samiyah recites, 'Given home, and honors all - still learning all the arts '
Samiyah recites, 'The Booga speaks most fondly of his Ordained Sur-i-el '
Samiyah recites, 'Honors gave his chief Ordained, who's rage burned hot as hell. '

Samiyah recites, 'Mystic armor, mighty blades - for great were the rewards '
Samiyah recites, 'And added greatly to the bags that Booga loved to hoard '
Samiyah recites, 'Then one day it hit him, with the ringing of a bell -- '
Samiyah recites, 'And there within the Booga's tree, in love the Seraph fell '

Samiyah recites, 'Mystaya was his wicked muse, the woman he would wed '
Samiyah recites, 'And for a time was happy, til his love by Tiger bled '
Samiyah recites, 'He swore revenge - let Aslan die! - for Talyn's desperate crime '
Samiyah recites, 'A love for love, the price to pay, in justice so sublime '

Samiyah recites, 'But interposed, the Weaver stood, Her eyes of deepest black '
Samiyah recites, '"If you should slay my Handmaid sweet, there is no turning back. '
Samiyah recites, 'Anathema named, Alliance hurt, and from you turn my face '
Samiyah recites, 'Where once a hand of friendship oft, just coldness in its place." '

Samiyah recites, 'Thus turned from path of Vengeance, he bitterly was forced '
Samiyah recites, 'And helpless rage turned deep within, with words so foul and coarse '
Samiyah recites, '"This love, it only weakens me: I cannot keep her long!" '
Samiyah recites, 'But each time thought to set aside, his heart proclaimed it wrong '

Samiyah recites, 'That wicked core of burning need, the thirst a soul could slake '
Samiyah recites, 'Came manifest in evil lies, all goaded by his mate '
Samiyah recites, '"Oh help me out, I need your aid!" he pled to Maja, whom '
Samiyah recites, 'Agreed to help "dispel a 'Clave", but only found his doom '

Samiyah recites, 'Locked within a Captain's place, blinded, crushed and slain '
Samiyah recites, 'A Nexus-friend was fooled and died, his gear was 'Staya's gain. '
Samiyah recites, 'Years, they passed, and many learned, to trust was but to die '
Samiyah recites, 'Then left behind by god and kin, he gazed up to the sky '

Samiyah recites, 'There must be more, beyond this Realm, I must leave it behind '
Samiyah recites, 'That distance might be sword to cleave through last of oaths that bind '
Samiyah recites, 'years would pass, the seasons sped, while absent Seraph stayed '
Samiyah recites, 'At last, returned, to Gods above, another vow was made '

Samiyah recites, 'I'll stand among you, serve the young, Immortal lessons learn '
Samiyah recites, 'But within me, there's a need, a fire wicked burns '
Samiyah recites, 'Born to sorrow, born to hate, and born to now Ascend '
Samiyah recites, 'And in my presence, trembling souls, before me knees to bend '

Samiyah recites, 'He followed through, was lifted high, his mortal shell to shed '
Samiyah recites, 'And in his name, his minions slew, 'til streets ran wet and red '
Samiyah recites, 'He crafted a new leg-a-cy, and gave a name -- the Vir '
Samiyah recites, 'There from a wicked throne of bone, the Seraph did not stir '

Samiyah recites, 'Many were the conquests of his favored scarlet souls '
Samiyah recites, 'Golson, Mas and Hedschott, all contribute to his goal: '
Samiyah recites, 'Let chaos spread - and lies and hurt - to make the whole world bleed '
Samiyah recites, 'Perhaps so all that suffering, would assuage his dark need '

Samiyah recites, 'For hungered, still, the Seraph did - that hollow void inside '
Samiyah recites, 'It made him reckless, to a fault, and wrongfully decide '
Samiyah recites, 'In a rage, he slew an oathed, and then - the rumor goes '
Samiyah recites, 'It was to friends from earthly plane, their eq quickly flowed '

Samiyah recites, 'The story's garbled - but the fact - he was not cast from high '
Samiyah recites, 'Means there is some question, and we may not e're know why '
Samiyah recites, 'He left his place, he left behind, his people and his throne '
Samiyah recites, 'November twenty, in Oh-Nine, this History has shown '

Samiyah recites, 'Many weeks would pass, until, the Seraph showed his face '
Samiyah recites, 'And with his re-turn, from him fell, the last Immortal grace '
Samiyah recites, 'It was the Spring, in April mid, the Seraph was Retired '
Samiyah recites, 'The Vir was gone, they said so long, their charter had expired '

Samiyah recites, 'Cen-tur-ies sped by with naught a hint of blackest wings '
Samiyah recites, 'Then DarkClaw found him in her home - and Chaos did he bring '

Samiyah glances at the Lady.

DarkClaw nods in recognition to you.

More bows before DarkClaw.

Samiyah recites, 'A growled need, a dark desire - for stronger was his thirst '
Samiyah recites, 'Three souls to gain, or else he'd steal: Belgarion'd be first '

Samiyah recites, 'She wept! She raged! How could he force, a woman to decide '
Samiyah recites, 'Between her friends and twixt her love, the choice she'd not abide '
Samiyah recites, 'She sought advice, she sought to hire, a Bard to tell the tale '
Samiyah recites, 'And spread a warning through the streets, through cities and through dale '

Samiyah recites, 'Samiyah spoke of desert charms, of salt and bonds of faith '
Samiyah recites, 'Four Elements not close at hand, but Spirit the fifth makes '
Samiyah recites, ' "Call your folk, and keep them close - like desert cat he hunts '
Samiyah recites, 'Culling out the wayward sheep, the wounded and the runts. '

Samiyah recites, 'Be the shepherd, ward them all, and get them through the night: '
Samiyah recites, 'Those shared vows will help you stand against this horrid fright." '
Samiyah recites, 'Heartened, Lady went her way, with troubled Bard behind '
Samiyah recites, 'For she the bonds of Faith rejects, alone and unaligned '

Samiyah recites, 'It wasn't long before he heard of little Bard's advice '
Samiyah recites, 'And thwarted, he began to watch - then spoke and named a price '
Samiyah recites, 'She'd do his bid, and spin his tale, or else her friends would fall '
Samiyah recites, 'But found that this was not enough - he wanted her as thrall. '

Samiyah recites, ' "I am the one who hears your prayers, To whom your people pray '
Samiyah recites, 'I've watched you for the longest time, through dark and light of day '
Samiyah recites, 'I'm here to help, you must believe, It's really for your good '
Samiyah recites, 'For without hate there is no love - I wish you understood." '

Samiyah recites, 'What Gods decree, we must abide - they cannot be gainsaid - '
Samiyah recites, 'And as my tale comes to a close, I'm filled with fear and dread '
Samiyah recites, 'For if it is - as Seraph says - he is my destiny '
Samiyah recites, 'I face the future yet unwrit, unknowing what will be. '

Samiyah falls silent and clasps her hands.

Natilena sits down and thinks deeply.

Samiyah lays a hand across her chest, modestly lowers her eyes, and curtseys.

DarkClaw moves closer to Sami to offer comfort.

Natilena says, 'written well but yes, an interesting tale that'.

>You received Bards' Council approval for level 25 at 2012-12-17 21:16:51.

Celebrate Our Immortals Bardic Circle Contest Entry: Thirst

Samiyah closes her eyes, centering herself for a moment, then speaks:

The words come quickly, lyrically, flowingly, with vocal rhythm and motion to match the sounds.

Samiyah says (in common), ‘Thirst.‘.
Samiyah pauses, letting the word sink into the quiet of the room.

Samiyah sways forward towards the listeners, spreads her arms wide and says, ‘Greater than need...‘.
Samiyah lifts one hand to her mouth, then cups both alongside her cheek while saying, ‘for hunger or sleep,'.
Samiyah gnashes her teeth, saying, ‘...It tears, and it BITES... ‘.
Samiyah gestures with clawed fingers flexing at her sides. ‘...it claws, and it seeps...‘.
Samiyah shifts her hands, running them with surprising sensuality along her sides. ‘..into every pore..‘.
Samiyah slides her hands down the opposite arm. ‘..every vein..‘.
Samiyah says (in common), ‘..every limb..‘.
Samiyah affirms with emphasis: ‘Stronger than ache..‘.
Samiyah looks down at the discarded bottle on the floor with a blush. ‘..for wine or for gin.‘.
Samiyah flicks a quick glance at DarkClaw, falling silent for a breath.

Samiyah sways forward again suddenly, ravenous hunger blazing in her dark eyes, which, for a moment, seem to flash crimson.
Samiyah says (in common), ‘Thirst.‘.
The words flow forth in a rapid torrent: ‘Slaking that need..‘.
Samiyah stamps one foot in emphasis. ‘Of PARAMOUNT import‘.
Samiyah's hands splay out, fingers spread, reaching upward. ‘...scale any wall...‘.
Samiyah raises both hands as if clenching a weapon. ‘..take any fort..‘.
Samiyah lowers her hands, her words intense, fists clenched at her side.
Samiyah says (in common), ‘To quench it..‘.
Samiyah says (in common), ‘To slake it...‘.
Her voice drops to a low growl accompanied by an angry glare: You do what you must!.
Samiyah pauses, bowing her head slightly.
Her tone, a whisper: ‘You break any promise....‘.
Samiyah breathes the words: ‘You break any trust.‘.
Samiyah carefully keeps her eyes on the floor, refusing to look at anyone present.

Samiyah takes a breath, glances at a page in a small black book and continues.
One hand rises, softly cupped fingertips brushing her sternum:
Samiyah says (in common), ‘Thirst.‘.
Samiyah opens her eyes and stares at the other bards: ‘That terrible need..‘
Samiyah's voice carries the anguish of loss: ‘Empty chill void..‘
Samiyah speaks swiftly, words tumbling over one another: ‘...that BEGS to be filled..‘
Her hands rise in a firm gesture of refusal.
Samiyah stresses, ‘NOT with life destroyed..‘
Samiyah says, ‘NOT with a soul, and NOT with the blood.‘
Her expression softens, eyes drifting briefly closed, feeling the music within.
Samiyah affirms, ‘..but with a song and but with a rhyme..‘
Samiyah says (in common), ‘the chant or the chorus of lyrical score...‘.
Samiyah puts melody to her next words, her voice rising up in a scale: ‘sing.. it.. once...‘
Samiyah halts for the duration of a heartbeat.
She confesses, ‘then...needing...‘
Samiyah whispers, ‘...More...‘
Samiyah pauses for another heart's beat, then repeats again, quietly:
‘Thirst.‘

Samiyah touches her hand to her forehead, her lips, and her heart in a tribal gesture of respect.
Samiyah trembles as she finds her seat once more, pulling her veil more securely about her, concealing even her eyes from view.

A Long, Dark Tale

(This work is OOC Info: It is in Sami's notebook but has never been performed.
It was written at Seraph's suggestion for the 'Love our Immortals' quest.)

‘Born of sweet Mal-nest, the tree-home of elves.’.
‘Wanderer of forests, of oceans, of dells.’.
‘Studious son of a man of the woods.’.
‘Stealthily hunting the prey that he should.’.
‘Youth spent in learning, from Father and Mum.’.

Whisper: "That's what he called his Mother, you see."

‘But knew there was more when his lessons were done.’.
‘He sought an example, for one who would lead:.’.
‘Toku of Balance - of right, noble deed.’.
‘Balance soon faded, and, left quite alone.’.
‘He wandered the woods, ‘til he heard a low tone.’.
‘- Soft and yet friendly - he sought out the source:.’.
‘A very small ogre, adorned with some gorse.’.

Whisper: "Thats a type of flower. I had to look it up, too."

‘"You are a strange little Ogre," he said.’.
‘Reply - "YOU would be crunchy with ketchup when dead!".’.
‘A 'saucy' reply, from this small shaman soul.’.
‘Amusing the Spirits was always his goal..’.
‘They talked and they talked, til the moon it had rise.’.
‘Speaking with honesty, not guile or lies.’.
‘Okk told him of Nash, and of Liches so fell.’.

Whisper: "Fell is another word for Dark and scary, but I wanted to save that for later.".’.

‘And long were the hours they spoke in that dell.’.
‘Until with the dawn, Okk led him to where.’.
‘An evil crypt sat, with a down-going stair.’.
‘There was an Arch-Lich, who glared at them both.’.
‘Then nodded and witnessed the Booga's own oath.’.

Whisper: "I bet it did NOT involve the word, 'MUHA!'..".’.

‘With Ramza and Morimox, travelled the world.’.
‘Nash's banner above, in the wind ere unfurled.’.
‘Decades would pass, in Conclave he learned.’.
‘to master the Arts of the enchant and burn.’.
‘Later in years, to a writer, confessed:.’.
‘"To Nash I do owe a great part of success.".’.

Whisper: "he said in that same interview that he still gives sacrifice and homage to Nash twice a year -- can you believe it?!" .’.
‘Soon he had reached Sorc'ry's pinnacle high.’.
‘And then that of woodscraft: so swiftly went by.’.
‘Trav'ling with Trinity, and brooding Rath.’.
‘Fighting in battles, or taking dark Paths.’.
‘The House of Ve-la-li-sier proved quite a trek.’.
‘And Ramza and Morimox got in a wreck.’.
‘The Priestess he tickled and teased til they fled.’.
‘And of the group he was the only not dead..’.

Whisper: 'Ouch! That's just GOTTA hurt!'.’.

‘But then came the day, his adventurers were done.’.
‘And with a petition - Ascention was won.’.
‘Shrouded in Darkness, He raised up a tree.’.
‘And said to his friends, 'Now come play with Me!'.’.
‘He gathered up Darklings and gave them all rules.’.
‘With tenets of ducks, and of green and of fools.’.
‘He sought those of magic, required a quest.’.
‘And mandated all to behave at their best.’.

Whisper: “Though, oftentimes.. they didn't.. from what I have heard..”

‘Many were those who gave oath in the Dark.’.
‘And stayed ever-faithful - their vow not a lark.’.
‘Seraph and Lycron and Thingone and Taint,.’.
‘Kailani, Harmony, Silence (he aint!).’.
‘Indiga, Malakost, Asher, Lestat.’.
‘Isolas, Erian, M'staya's all that.’.
‘Tiberius, ZipWitchling, Beowulf, more.’.
‘They all were a part of that great Darkling horde.’.

Whisper: ‘He shaped many into who they were and who they would become.’

‘Many the student, he took and he taught:.’.
‘Guiding Attendants through lessons so fraught.’.
‘He showed them the joys and the sorrowful tasks.’.
‘Of eq'ing followers, saving their .... .’.
(The next line is crossed out.)

‘Sequoia was filled with such glad merriment.’.
‘Weddings and funerals - never lament.’.
‘He built quite a family, odd though it be,.’.
‘But never the like of it ever will see..’.
‘Of Kerri himself, there is many a tale.’.
‘Of loves he had one, but he never availed.’.

‘Nor took him a wife, though he loved desperate-ly.’.
‘Just wishing that lady would on her own see.’.
‘His passion, his honor, his heart that was true.’.
‘She served him with dignity, but never knew.’.
‘His Dark Phasma burned ever bright in his heart.’.
‘Until that sad day when this world did depart.’.
‘Other planes called to that Booga-ful Drow.’.
‘What he does now, we may never know.’.
‘But shape this world, certainly, Kerri sure has.’.
‘And was an Immortal with unmatched pizzazz!!.’..’.

Booga 03/15/13

You all do me too much honor...Thank you. :)

The Message In A Bottle

(This work is OOC Info: Only Seraph and Wish have read it.)

They say, 'in Vino Veritas' - for me a pinch of snuff
Just a little tiny bit - but fortunate - enough
For a time, the webs were cleared, and for a time, the lies
I saw those present stripped of all deception and disguise
Were there both? Of course there were - though I spoke it nay
For there was truth there also, that was clear and plain as day
One stood before me, waiting for my words to cast aside
One stood there also, waiting there, that he would know the lie
But peace obtained, with truth and lie - I saw his core intent
To shape, to guide, to burn away, my broken miscontent
To heal a soul so shattered that the pieces scattered wide
And translate from a culture that most any would deny
Another watched, trembling within, his Alchemy to work
But within him secrets lie, within him falsehoods lurk
That one believes reflections that are thrown from broken glass
And never sees the one within, of how the die was cast
We are the sum of all we are - both truth and lie entwined
And sometimes baring all to see would be the most unkind
Your path is yours, and mine is his, in this, I know the end
But even though your trust is gone, I still shall call you friend

Chillin In The Cooler

Until recently, this work had never been performed. However, Theros and DarkClaw got to hear it on 11/16/2014.

Cold winds swirl around,
drowns out every song,
Shivering, chattering,
fireball spattering
Nothing but pondering
what I did wrong.


Words said in a heat
to avoid such defeat
argument angry and loud,
three was such a crowd
Praying, head bowed
for Gods know how long.


Defiantly walking
When Wish was still talking
Seraph so mad at me,
Wouldn't say "enemies"
With no ambiguity -
Just want to be gone.


Words strike like maces,
their angry, cold faces
My bridge was called trash,
was the start of the clash
Slight hope was dashed,
When will I catch on?


Like the displeasure,
of Immortal measure
This icy snow bites at me,
Flurries hide all to see
I'm "slave" and I'm "silly" -
and just "Seraph's Pawn"


Swirling snow everywhere,
can't get to anywhere
That isn't so freezing,
just want to stop sneezing
I just keep reminding:
No weakness! Stay strong.


Finality sinks in
I must sink or else swim
My choices demanded,
With Seraph, I'm branded
Or else stay remanded
away from the throng


But closed heart and coldness
Ar-gu-ments acrimonious
Are no more a part of me
Then naming unwillingly
Friends into enemies...
..too much truth in a song.

The Sea Bird

(Written and performed for one of Sami's young friends on 03/11/13)

Oh once I saw a sea-bird
It soared aloft so high
I wondered where it traveled,
And heard its mournful cry

It searches out a lost ship,
Its traveled lo so far
Into every sea-port
Searched every mast and spar

It looks for crew and kinsman
It seeks to find its home
Crossing every channel
Aloft and so alone

Faithfully it searches
Wings pushing tirelessly
Its keen-eyed gaze a-looking
Across the white-capped sea

So ghostly pale and silent
Its wings extending wide
Its search, it will not falter
‘E’re following the tide

Its home is with its sailors
Their luck when on the sea
I watched that lovely seabird
And felt its cry in me.

I hope it finds a safe berth -
Sun's fading in the west -
A perch, a home, a comfort,
And lets its wings to rest

Trickeries

(This work is entirely OOC: Only one person other has read the shredded pages that this was written upon: Wish.)

Your words were clear: you want it back?
My soul's been heavy at its lack
Your price you named, to cause a rift
But Sahib knew - confession swift
I trusted that your word was good
You once assured me that I could
And after price required paid
I learned it was just trick'ry played
Your every intent just a lie
And so, Sahib, I ask you: Why?

Level 50 Bard Performance: Duets In The Desert

(This work is entirely OOC due to the nature of the performance)

At The Desert’s Edge: Cresom
Samiyah:	Though I've grown beyond the sands, my roots are here, in poisoned lands
Cresom:	A scar's across both of our hands, but most will never understand
Samiyah:	The tribe, its hold is on me yet - such binding rules I can’t forget
Cresom:	Happy now, but I don't forget - The way he harmed, when you first met
Cresom:	God or mortal, I'd withstand - any time YOU have a plan
Samiyah:	But it's the comfort of your hand, that's helped me make so many stands
Cresom:	I'll stand with you 'gainst any threat - Don't think I won't! Don't take that bet!
Samiyah:	And though I'm oft with doubt beset, a better brother, couldn’t get!
----
At The Veil: Eathor
Samiyah:	An Ogre bard, who would have thought? But he has gone, where most cannot
Samiyah:	From my very early days, he helped me in so many ways
Samiyah:	When Hunt was called, when death my lot, I went to him, so deep distraught
Samiyah:	And asked him - not his hand to stay, but instead, the Wyld to praise
Samiyah:	A kindness, strange, I asked of him - take up the Hunt so dark and grim..
Samiyah:	Let it be *his* blade to fall, that never Aoide, I would brawl..
Samiyah:	His weapon thrice my throat to skim, and then soul sent to Seraphim..
Samiyah:	And still our friendship holds no pall, two broken hearts he did forestall
----
The Hunter: Ghazkull
Ghazkull:	My thirst you quenched, by crimson stain'd, and by your gift, Rebirth attained,
Samiyah:	My Sahib's honor, to maintain, these wicked urges must restrain!
Ghazkull:	That first shy kiss, our lips did meet, Nearly made this dead heart beat
Samiyah:	Your gentle lesson, such a treat - a tender moment, I'd repeat.
Samiyah:	Though I try hard to abstain, his mouth on mine runs through my brain
Ghazkull:	Your blood has coursed twice through my veins - my thirst for you, it never wanes
Ghazkull:	From this bond, I'll not retreat - My Almond pastry, ever sweet
Samiyah:	Though love, not bond, I must defeat, yet it's with you, I feel complete.
----
At The Oasis: Wish
Wish:	Singing dervish with alluring eyes, Innocent veils hide nasty surprise.
Samiyah:	..What if ..I'd never been Alchemized, not had that veil torn from these eyes?
Samiyah:	But lies could not those truths negate, I saw them _both_, their truest state!
Wish:	Catalyst of pain and misguided hate, the magic she scribes to seal my fate
Wish:	Yet for her, hold no ling'ring spite - she cannot yet see wrong from right!
Samiyah:	*His* words contain their _own_ hard bite, and every time we talk - we fight,
Samiyah:	I would not choose another path but: not my poem's aftermath...'
Wish:	No, it's him that earns my wrath - that slithering snake by name: "Seraph"
----
In the Holies: Seraph
Seraph:	My singing sparrow, desert muse - Of all the tribe, it's you I choose.
Samiyah:	So many people just accuse my explanations just refused.
Samiyah:	Why won't you ever say goodbye - spread your wings, escape and fly?
Seraph:	You were so gentle, quiet, shy - the slightest bark, and you would cry
Seraph:	So yes: your tender spirit bruised - But to *teach*, and not abuse
Samiyah:	In a world of Reds and Blues, it's hard to walk in others' shoes
Seraph:	I've taught you caution - question why! - and now your songs ring through the sky.
Samiyah:	And though sometimes, the rules, defy, my home is in his Order High
Samiyah:	I'm not some simp'ring brainless doll! I do not grovel, beg or crawl!
Seraph:	Those with heart, shall lead them all - And now they answer Order's call.
Samiyah:	I wish I could more clear convey - Those words on me, like stones they weigh,
Seraph:	I smile each time you softly pray, and each your tender fears allay.'
Seraph:	You choose and choose: you're not a thrall - You are the prize within my Hall
Samiyah:	And while on me, did Vengeance fall, and cost to heart was nothing small
Samiyah:	There is no price I wouldn't pay, for home, for hearth, for Him, I stay
Seraph:	And though, you sometimes disobey - You always come back to my way
----
In the Holies: Katrana
Katrana:	Dear one, little desert maid, upon you such a weight is laid!
Samiyah:	So many times, I nearly strayed, away from vow to Mother made,
Samiyah:	For in the dark, a hunt-horn rings - but no song within me sings
Katrana:	I, too, had dreams, was seeing things, and know the heartbreak that it brings
Katrana:	Why did you never ask for aid, give your worship, geas and prayed?
Samiyah:	I whispered once, in silence, prayed, But in the end, I did as bade
Katrana:	Your lack of vows - it deeply stings - We would have taught to use your wings!
Samiyah:	You do not know of desert things, that ever pulls on my heart strings
----
Beneath the Palms: DarkClaw, Jamilla & Venom
Samiyah:	The Lady Lost and those Embraced who sometimes smile and sometimes chase
Samiyah:	My thoughts of them so oft conflict - what She thinks, I can't predict
Samiyah:	Against a lie or harm, am braced - which She implies is quite misplaced!
Samiyah:	But Sahib's law is clear and strict ... so my actions, must constrict.
Samiyah:	One of hers, I ache to help - my sister made to Venom's whelp
Samiyah:	Now, *him*, I'd hurt a thousand times, while her heart he e're confines!
Samiyah:	Pluck his fangs until he yelps, and hide his body 'neath the kelp
Samiyah:	Carving stakes from ancient pines... if not for her, I'd cross that line...
Samiyah:	But for a sister, never known, I only can his words bemoan
Samiyah:	For action taken 'gainst her sire would only cause her pain and ire
Samiyah:	Ja-mi-lla, she must be shown - with truth, with love, in word and tone
Samiyah:	My one true hope, my one desire: that she find peace, and home acquire
----
By A Small Tidepool: Ink
Samiyah:	Sometimes I think I've come so far, and am as strong as my friends are
Ink:	What a weirdo girl you are! Your desert ways are quite bizarre!
Samiyah:	But even though I am not bold, I learned from actions, lessons cold
Ink:	Always doing what you're told - *I* make *my* rules but you're not bold
Ink:	And not as smart as me, by far - not quaffing aloe from a jar :P
Samiyah:	His hunting was much worse than spar, my calm to shatter, veil to mar
Ink:	Mostly useless, times untold - no matter how I teach and scold!
Samiyah:	I know that he would laugh and scold, but songs are worth their weight in gold
----
Beside A Slain Goat: Sagan
Sagan:	Little bard, how years have passed! I've been so proud to help when asked.
Samiyah:	Fresh and bloody, recent past, the final lesson learned at last
Samiyah:	Cursed by some in vile tone? a helping hero, *I* have known
Sagan:	Though - sometimes foolish, danger-prone - I've seen you come into your own
Sagan:	And though I Hunted to the last, my pride in you was never dashed..
Samiyah:	Now that deadly duty's past, I'll smile again beneath veil's mask
Samiyah:	Triat's honor set his tone: The Hunt not all that he has shown
Sagan:	Though His sins you did atone - You see *me*: more than Hound and bone
----
With The Shepherds: Tross
Samiyah:	I saw a child like you one day, oft alone, and somewhat fey...
Tross:	I'm afraid I have to say! That mask you wear gets in the way...
Samiyah:	I offered smiles, a little cheer, or just a helping hand...
Tross:	And all you ever do is pray.... and think of goats and sand..
Tross:	Now I can't bear to see you cry! I don't even quite get why...
Samiyah:	Her sight is true, with bardic eye, a 'Tross aloft within the sky
Tross:	even though you are quite shy... you take on such demands.
Samiyah:	Glad she's found a sailor's berth amidst the pristine sands
----
Outside The Briars: Aoide
Aoide:	As you've grown your whole life long, so, too, has your strength and song
Samiyah:	It's been a fight not to prolong, my urge to simply 'go along'
Aoide:	Yet still you feel haraam, apart, within the power of your art
Samiyah:	From today, I vow to chart - a whole new course, from blithe to smart!
Aoide:	Far from the sands and winds so strong, you sought a place where you belong
Samiyah:	It's hard to know what's right and wrong, when alone and when with throng
Aoide:	One wisdom to you I'd impart: Home's the music of your heart.'
Samiyah:	I think it's time, this place depart - a whole new path it's time to start

The Sea Bird's Nest

I once wrote of a sea-bird,
that soared aloft so high
It searched for crew and kinsman
And sang a mournful cry

I wept with joy at knowing
it found a home at last
A place to let its wings rest
And heal wounds of the past

That sea-bird nested sweetly,
Taught older birds to fly
And though it winged far distant
I'd smile as it soared by

But now its nest is missing
Just gone without a trace
Her hurt, loss and betrayal
Clear, written on her face

I ached to give her shelter
To heal the wound renewed
I closed my arms around her:
Unable to break through

She launched away up skyward,
wings beating at the air
her tone proclaiming loudly
She surely didn't care

My heart ached at renewed loss
Twice left behind by men
Who did not take precaution
and broke her heart again

How could they leave this sea-bird,
Abandon, not look back?
Not think for just one moment
Of hurts made by their lack?

They say that pain makes stronger,
This, any girl-child knows.
But words cannot prepare you -
When one we love.. just.. goes.

The Truth of Him

A Song for Theros

(written 11-13-2014: This has only been performed once, and only for the one for whom it was written. It is OOC knowledge for anyone else.)

'What ho! What ho!'
'What, hi? How low?'
'So low? So-lo?'
'What ho! Here goes!'

'Not as slow as the flow'
'of the sea down below'
'He ain't scairt of the air'
' 'Cause he goes everywhere!'

'With a thrum of his gills,'
'He's a fish without frills'
'With a splish and a splash'
'To a task he will dash'

'What Ho! Whut? Whoah!'
'What ho? Uh-Oh!'

'He knows e-ver-y rock'
'From the Cliffs to the Docks'
'Every cloth, book, and key,'
'And he's fast as can be'

'Those who quest know to fear'
'If dread THEROS is near!'
'They will run, watch the clock,'
cause their win, he can block'

'What Hi! What Ho!'
'Now off! Let's go!'

'He's got Lexie afraid'
'That her work goes astray'
'"OH MY GOD!" she will yell,"
'Just as loud as a bell'

'Though he so loves to tease,'
'"Sugar britches!" and flees,"
'He is droll, he is kind,'
'So so-lemn and sublime!'

'Uh-oh! What ho!'
'Hi ho! Whut? Oh!'

A Few of Those Lexie-ish Things

(Performed on 11/19/2014, Sung to the tune of 'My Favorite Things')

L-Qs and Mobhunts, and grapefruits, and fishes
Choc-late and thieve's cant and burning the dishes
Threat'ning opponents, while causing boys DINGS!
These are a few of those Lexie-ish things!

Killing the Captain while wielding a bucket
"Girl Power RULZ so you boys can just suck it!"
Guarding her flower, her ranks and her blings!
These are a few of those Lexie-ish things!

When her cat bites!
When her link drops!
When she "OH MY GOD!"s
We simply all grin at her Lexie'ish things
And then we don't feel so flawed!

Flirting with Teva then swinging a backstab,
So skilled at combat - more deadly with her gab
Died to a magman: the news page it stings!
That's just another quite Lexie-ish thing!

Teasing a Vicar and chasing down Theros
Ob-li-vi-ous to the nuance of Eros
Worshipped a Booga, and evil she brings!
That's just another quite Lexie-ish things!

When she goes SPLAT!
When she CR's
When she wins a quest ..... (?!?)
We simply all grin at her Lexie'ish things
And tell her she did her best!

Gossip, she lights up, she wants Veneration
From every Elf, human, gnome and crustation!
Dwarves don't escape, nor do bird-folk with wings
It's just another loud Lexie-ish thing!

Dun is her brother, but no, it's like THAT
They pair up often to make big mobs go SPLAT!
Getting in trouble for upgrades to rings
It's just another loud Lexie-ish thing!

when she gets lost!
When she just whines
When she acts so blonde!
We simply all grin at her Lexie'ish things
(But wonder if we've been conned...)

Rage-quitting when she falls into a burn room
Dragons will make all her con-tain-ers go boom!
Of all of her exploits, this bard she will sing,
'Cause there's a lot of these Lexie-ish things!

Com-pe-ti-tive doesn't really quite cover
When a new rank type our Lexie discovers
Whether its jump rope or be-hea-ding! Kings
That's not the least of the Lexie-ish things!

When she wiz-marks,
when she bad ports,
When she Oh-EMM-GEES,
We simply all grin at her Lexie-ish things
And beg for Unfetter, PLEASE!

His Changing Shores

(Written about Wind, and viewed only by him and the Wyldess.)

He was the silver stillness
of an icy mountain lake
With depths of thought and feelings
Fed by faith and first heartbreak
Though scarred by wicked spirits,
his own soul bore no such taint
The injuries by life sustained
were healed and fairly faint

But to his life came desert bard,
and mirror-calm was changed
A transformation made complete,
His life was rearranged
Eternal night and endless Thirst,
From mortal life estranged
For her, he'd stand up to a God -
her Father - quite deranged

No longer placid lake so calm,
But now, a tumbling stream
Still confined within its banks,
But woken, so it seems
They'd venture out, or sit and talk,
discussing hopes and dreams
He was her staunch defender and
so high in her esteem

So years did pass, and more he changed:
Swift river, filled with life
They faced together consequence,
communion, even strife
Known far and wide as Bonded pair,
(but never man and wife)
Not flinching when a mindless rage
cut deeper than a knife

A final battle, won at last -
The weary toil abate
But doubts remained, and so he asked
for Trial from Lady Fate
Before it's giving, fear arose:
What sacrifice await?
But bravely faced, and waited calm,
What Triat would dictate

Tasks of puzzles quite obscure,
while tempted by a sprite
Tasks to hurt and tasks to Feed,
and Tasks to win a fight
Tasks to Hunt and to explore,
to Wyldess' delight
Tasks to learn and tasks to seek,
And tasks of cruelest spite

The Wyld's nature is to change,
and leave behind the old
And tasks thus far have surely caused
a breaking of the mold
No longer simple river's flow,
but Ocean, wide and bold:
A Thread's been cut, a Thirst denied,
What yet may still unfold?

I've feared those tides since first I left
my sandy desert home
Unstopping pow'r and siren call:
so much remains unknown
I feel so small within the grasp
of crashing waves of foam
A rising tide that overwhelms,
a storm of flesh and bone

The sea has vast, uncharted depths,
A source of mystery,
And though some sailors chart its tide
There's much they cannot see
The Tempests that bring deadly storms,
That no one can foresee:
Plain to see he's changing still:
Who is it he will be?

I Like Big Bards

'I like big bards and I cannot lie
You other clerics can't deny
That when a bard walks in with her lyrical grace
And that bard-fu in your face
It gets Done! Gotta spell up and buff
Cause you gotta -try- an' keep up
Deep in that zone she's killin'
I'm strapped an' I'm XP feelin'
Oh, Bardy, I wanna group with ya'
and PK with wit'cha
That Anduin tried to warn me
Aoide's kick gave me a torn knee
Her spinning back kick
Hit square in my ...wick
So, group me, group me,
'Cause she aint no average troop-y
I've seen Sam dancin'
To hell with romancin!
She's buff, rough
Got fists swingin like a Mack truck
I'm tired hearin tha news
Sayin Bards are just a-buse
Take the average young man - ask him that?
Bards gotta lead the pack!
So, warrics! "Yeah!"
Mages! "Yeah!"
Has your group lead got that bard?' "HELL Yeah!"
Tell 'em to kick it! "Kick it!"
Punch it! "Punch it!"
Kick that Hall Guard butt!
Bardys are BUFF!

Winter is Coming

(Written for Snowman Wars, 2016)

'The sages have warned since the oldest days'.
'In poems and stories, in quatrains and lays,'.
'Their words in staccato, like omens a-drumming:'.
'Prepare for the future: for WINTER IS COMING.'.

'The legions fan out with their bags slack and bare'.
'They tra-verse the lands, wherever they dare'.
'Seeking out creatures made up all of snow'.
'Finding this quarry, both high and both low'.

'Its a duty that's sacred: upholding their gods'.
'They'll gather what's fallen, to even the odds'.
'To pack on their snowman, to build it up strong'.
'Just feed it the right kind, but none of the wrong'.

'Find it some snow boots, a lovely red scarf'.
'A  carrot to wield, not a bucket of barf'.
'Snow boots not sandals, iron rings not a glow'.
'And for it, the places, the places, we'll go'.

'For WINTER IS COMING, it's time for the snows'.
'The battles so lengthy, the alcohol flows'.
'There'll be just one winner, the ones with sore feet'.
'Who faced every comer, and gave them defeat!'.