The Tale of Neithrel
by Imbrielle

This song won the honor of second place in the first Bardic competition of our time, sponsored by the House Scrimm, back in 348, it would have been.

Imbrielle says, "This song was written in honor of all the brave bards who have gone on before us."

Imbrielle begins to gently strum the introduction on the instrument. A low rocking rhythm emerges gradually growing louderand faster - reaching a fevered pitch, and then stops abruptly.

Imbrielle begins a slowly rolling arpeggio on the strings, the earlier furor now abated. Imbrielle picks the tempo up again, the melody rising louder while a persistent thump is heard as her knuckles rap the body of the instrument. Imbrielle modulates to a minor key, the melody acquiring a melancholy wail, sending shivers up your spine. Imbrielle stops playing abruptly at the end of the verse, allowing the ghostly echoes to bounce about the hall, and then raises her head and voice to one and all. A single tear runs down Imbrielle's face.

Imbrielle pauses for a moment then begins singing again her mellifluous voice rising toward the song's end.

Imbrielle sits in silence. The final notes hang weightless in the air before gently falling, blanketing the room like the first snow of winter.


Editor's Note - The verses in italics are meant to be recited, rather than sung.

A special note to Dreamheart, for making sure this song is remembered.