Nilme/Songs

This page is a work in progress. The lyrics will be added when it is possible to do so.

Original Songs

Nilme is a prolific writer enjoying both writing freely and adhering to restrictive poetry forms. She also enjoys being commissioned to write for people and events, making them as personalized as possible. The songs below were written from 371 AV to the present. (2004-2021). Singers in Elanthia are welcome to use these songs as long as she is credited for her work.

If there are any questions regarding the use of Nilme's songs, or to commission a piece, contact her in game or OOC: Discord- Nilme Iondu'il#2122

Autobiographical

Nilme's Tale

Orphaned at an early age when evil chose a mortal sin, a fair young child with blue-black hair, her tale, in sorrow, doth begin. Her parents (strong, Ilithic souls) did travel far and wide, they say. to sing the 'Rage', the 'Drums', 'Resolve'. Their instruments, they'd gladly play. They wandered into forest deep, where Cheldennat made his abode, and to their ignorance- he crept and sent them down the Starry Road. Upon their walk, they left this child in forest glen to mourn and keen, when the selfish Cheldennat, smiled, and toward the child approached unseen. With one strong arm, he swept the child, fleeing quickly from the glen. To home he went, and kept her there, a slave, to cook, and clean his den. Her days were spent in cold, dark room with naught but pallet, pot and chair; But merry ever was her soul, in spite of Cheldennat's cold stare. In secret, this young maiden sang- her mother's gift, a high, clear voice; Her Father's gift, a merry heart. She, through each struggle, did rejoice. While Cheldennat did hunt and fight, she mended rags and cooked his meal. In humour mild, she'd tend the fire and grew the herbs, his wounds to heal. O'er many andu, her sweet voice, a beaming light to darkness showed, and finally the day arrived- Cheldennat walked the Starry Road. She stayed for days in cottage old but Cheldennat came not to feed. She finally went to garden gate- hunger and thirst an aching need. As she ventured through the brush, she saw the world, amazed, through eyes which recognized, at last, the truth masked by Cheldennat's bold lies. She wandered 'round, ('twas grace alone, that kept her far from danger's way). To the Crossing she finally came, and heard a street-side minstrel play. Her spirit rose. Her heart grew light. Cheldennat's prison now her past. She asked him whereupon he'd learned, and found the Bard Guildhalls at last. She saw the ones who came and went through magic portal, smiling wide. She spoke with Silvyrfrost to join and then at once ventured inside. And so her life began anew, good friends she meets and songs she sings. She embraces with heart, the Bardic life, and smiles at all that each day brings.

Nilme's Tale: A New Page

The orphan of two merry Bards the Starry Road took too soon, I wandered the lands by day, and slumbered under the moon. Gypsy Achrennight Filanti, with black hair and eyes of jade, listened to me fill the Guild, with songs of both light and shade. We spoke for hours about all things, sharing how our lives began. Before the sun rose again, Achren added to her Clan. Achren's love, and husband, Izzit, to me was a dear Father. Parents to me, they became, the Nightingale and Ranger. They taught me about Bardic lore, and how to shape a short bow. When I went out on my own, with their blessings did I go. Through many years, I was happy- but I sadly lost my way. Finally I made my way back, and it is here I stand today. Friends of old are still with me, held deeply within my heart. Each day begins a fresh page, with friends newly met, a part.

Nilme's Tale: The Prodigal

Written after a sleep that lasted 10+ years Long ago I made a life here- Travelled the paths and knew the land. Peace and conflict, both in measure- A future here was planned. Every moment cherished, for I deeply loved my home. My little cottage out in Lang, The Bowyers where we'd made a 'Guild', Theren Theatre, and our plays- Concerts with each and every seat filled! Every waking moment, I loved Elanthia, my home. Too many moons have come and gone Since all those happy, reckless, days, Since I was lied to and betrayed By one with petty, jealous ways. Forbidden and exiled, I mourned- longing for my home. Dreaming of the life I’d had here, Family who tightly held my heart, Guildmates, Neighbors, Lovers, Friends, From whom I was, tragically, kept apart. Filled with sadness and despair, I ached to see my home. A tiny ember filled with hope Lay dormant, 'til the happy day Rescue came and it was tended. Light to help me find my way! Stumbling over every step, I made my way back home. Every instinct brought me closer, A prodigal, once lost, now found, With every step I breathe it in And find true peace, unbound; Restored, I've found the way back to my beloved home.

• (Placeholder) Tavern Troupe Audition Piece

Celebrating People

Almarius, the Itty Bitty Bard

This song was written to honor a very dear friend- Almarius. A faint scent of gingerbread flies into the room A cloud of colorful glitter behind. It's a Gnome Bard, beloved by all she meets- New friends and new fun to find. With tortoiseshell glasses framing sparkling green eyes, She's prepared for all tart emergencies. She inspires laughter and joy from all, Bouncing up and down with great frequency! Puddle Stomper Almarius, in her pink gown- Red-gold hair carelessly crowning her head, When smiling, dimples appear in her cheeks- With a generous and kind heart, she's led. An itty-bitty goblin friend never far away, Only windmills and paperwork bring fear. If she's your friend, she'll stay in your heart, And her sweet laughter forever you'll hear. I hope you'll meet her and see for yourself- Find out how smiling with her is not hard- Hear the cheerful cadence of her very first words, "Hiiii! I'm Almarius- The Gnome Bard!!"

For Someone Unknown

Three moons above me rise and fall, Seasons arrive and then adjourn, While I, in silence, contemplate And into the past return. Another lifetime, it seems now, All my memories are vague and pale. I've tried to grasp the history. But it's been to no avail. Still, the hint of peace you gave me, While the whole world was filled with war, Encouraging me, as you healed When you found me at your door. You gave me strength to carry on, And gave me courage in the fight, Those words of comfort, then bade me To hold close to what was right. You helped me to grow and prosper, Which led me where I am today, You'll ever have my gratitude, Though your name has slipped away.

Izzit Myadow, Da

Gentle carver of ebony, You fletch and you shape, While you pass through both forest and brush With soft, whispered footfalls that seek unseen trails, With your constant companion- your wolf. Strong fighter of creatures, You skin and you tan, Using nature's abundance to aid you, With eyes like an eagle in search of a meal, You find that which you track-without fail. The dawn's colour creeping Through leaf, limb and tree And the darkness which falls into place-- Each paint in my mem'ry the picture of you, And the love that you've shown me, always. Honourable Ranger, Father and Friend, The world, it moves by, while you watch. The towns, they change daily, The cities they grow, But for you, the deep forest's enough. Skilled Archer and Teacher, you forage and search. Da, I've learned so much, there by your side. As your Father before you- at one with the land, With your honor and strong 'Rangah' pride. The dawn's colour creeping Through leaf, limb and tree And the darkness which falls into place-- Each paint in my mem'ry the picture of you, And the love that you've shown me, always.

• (Placeholder) Kaedan's Birthday

Mendira, 100 Circles Strong

Commissioned by Navesi and Ahneya for Mendira when she reached 100 circles Each circle reached means quite a lot. It represents all you've been taught. But when one hundred have been earned, it goes beyond what you have learned. All those ranks in your vocation demonstrate your dedication. We celebrate this milestone and the commitment you have shown. Regardless how you like to train, with every circle that you gain, You'll find much closer you will be to reach the goal of Mastery. And friends that you've met on the way, celebrate this with you today. The pride you feel is echoed here, in joyful smiles of those near. Each class, and hunting trip you've made, the practicing in guild or glade, The time you've spent has brought you far. Your talents show that you're a star. You perform and bring us pleasure, giving memories to treasure. One hundred circles! What a feat! Let's now enjoy both drink and treat! Mendira, You're now one hundred circles strong. We've believed in you all along! Our fondest wishes follow you, in all the things you've yet to do.

The Gor'Tog People

For Rawtubby I have written this song to honor the Gor'Tog people as a whole, but also for one honorable Gor'Tog specifically. Rawtubby has inspired this work. It is my hope I have done it justice. Solinga kalmui takat soling, yaka wana kaupak kua talna tau damaska atna aina muru kau tukwanaka atsa luka nauka. Our families before us, that came from out of the forests, were held captive to work without freedom. Kangka talna yu dap rip, basna kua kau rubuknaka- oming nakana dap ana as diwak huna kau tau wausuan. Full of hunger and cold, thrown out in exile, they endured and made a new home in the mountains. Karakpa soling, tau silaman talna amat at talnala pas tau yaringka. While we, the descendants of sorrow, are finally inside the light. Aisau "Sangka Wiribibit" uba, soling yanaka sa sikwanaka, katka abinaka amangkau wirida dia kau im dap tambas. No "Green Troll" now, we do not forget but abandon anger to live freely in peace and friendship. I observed a mighty Gor'Tog who sat sharpening a sword. I noticed as he worked he seemed neither distracted nor bored. His movements slow, intentional, I saw as I walked away. I thought of the complex history that brought him to this day. The Gor'Togs, long ago, abandoned the forest and emerged- The reason a mystery. Time silenced the loss they incurred. Discovered by a race of saviors, some histories have said, They were taken in and were given clothing, shelter, and bread. Some say it is with gratefulness for this hospitality They worked under the whip, to the best of their ability. But still others say this gentle race was not with kindness saved, for "Green Trolls" as they were called, were taken in and then enslaved. Whether for themselves or against their will, they labored the same. These Gor'Togs worked with no reward, and then one harsh winter came. Though they had given of themselves, when the bitter cold went on, They were released and told to leave, for the stores would soon be gone. Forced to brave the threatening elements with no food or heat They huddled as one, unknowing if they'd find death or defeat. In their strength, they found the Dwarven mountains and a blessed fate. They passed down love and over years lost their bitterness and hate. From Nan to child, throughout generations, they shared their story, And taught how perseverance would lead from suffering to joy. They value honest work and will be a true and loyal friend, It's careful focus on their tasks that satisfy at days' end. Sadly some will only see their size and not their dignity, They mistake the lack of speed for not grasping complexity. It can be a tragic mistake to judge someone by their looks Common sense is possible without understanding fine books. In the important ways that feed our souls, they play a smarter hand. Just a plate of food, a pint or two, and friends can make life grand. Keeping far from stress and strife is a most worthwhile endeavor. To enjoy the best of life you do not need to be clever. A gigantic size or slow speed doesn't mean you are not smart. The wise know romance, love, and kindness can fill the biggest heart. Tau tinga wataknaka wasbila dap atni sumh buluni as palka itukwana tumi.

• (Placeholder) Temmel, The Bard of Clanthew Boulevard
• (Placeholder) The Battle of Bay

Crafting

• (Placeholder) The Forge

Darker

Ancient

Into the ground, I fall again. Pushed by words that tumble down- Sliding like rocks down a mountain. And I am undone. So many years of sight Wasted in a moment- Blinded and rendered useless, And I am overcome. Into the shadows, I fade once more, Pressed back with words Spiraling fast- with no warning, And I am alone. So many steps I've taken, Stilled in an instant, Hidden by a thousand grains of sand- And I am lost. Into the past, I find myself Paths marked by forgotten things, The familiar now strange, And I remain. So many times, I fly... yet;Into the depths, I disappear.

• (Placeholder) Blindsided
• (Placeholder) The Mountain

Encouragement

• (Placeholder) *Light

Food and Drink

Apple Brandy

The window's opened to the breeze, The moonlight shines above the trees. The day is over now. I gaze at you. My need is great. I smile, and knowing I can't wait, I walk to where you are. I am drawn in by your tempting heat. I savor how you'll taste so sweet. I pull you close to me. The scent of you intoxicates The effect that you have elevates The dreamy mood I'm in. The nightly ritual we share I've tried but nothing can compare To you, my Apple Brandy!

Bacon is Better

This song was commissioned by Baylix It seems there's a matter of great debate By those who feel that ham is great, But when Ham and delicious Bacon compete It is Ham that will always find defeat. For no matter the glaze that covers it, Ham will always taste like shiii- something really bad that no one wants to eat, But Bacon prepared well will never miss The chance to fill your mouth with deliciousness. Whenever generations pass down their story You'll hear mighty tales of Bacon's superiority And the horror of finding it's Ham they're serving To those who are hated and not deserving. Bacon, not Ham, is the tastiest snack. Ham, as a food, should be sent back And the kitchen closed and the cook let go Because Bacon is better, as we well know. So this concludes the great debate And it's clear that Ham just isn't great Compared with Bacon, sizzling and hot, Which gives you pleasure- while Ham does not.

• (Placeholder) Barmaid
• (Placeholder) Lament for a Bottle of Wine
• (Placeholder) Menu
• (Placeholder) The Bar Sees It All
• (Placeholder) The Inn

Friendship

My Friend

Form: French Rondeau Commissioned by Rawtubby I look to you when I'm laid bare, When life throws me into despair. A greater friend I could not find, With both interests and thoughts aligned. I can be sure that you'll be there. You come to me when life's not fair, When trouble finds you unaware, As you look to me to be kind, I look to you. Our friendship no one can impair. Loyalty, love, and trust we share, Neither leads or is left behind, Both are equal, our fates are entwined. To see a friend whose joys I share, I look to you.

Fun

Faeries Wheel

Through the gate and pay your fare! Don't stop or hesitate! Step right in and snuggle close, leave your worries now to fate! For though the height of the Faeries' Wheel might intimidate, Excitement wins the day as you start to levitate. A lurch! A swing! Then you've left the ground, and to the sky migrate, The height gives new perspective as the crowds accumulate. The Faeries' Wheel! The Faeries' Wheel! One silver buys a ride! Come right in! Step right up! Your carriage awaits inside! The scent of delicacies from below waft up and permeate, While you make a note to try the tasty foods the cooks create. Halfway up the Faeries' wheel, the people fascinate And upon their faces, eager smiles show it's time to celebrate! A subtle swing- your body reels, then vertigo's effects abate. A long deep breath and you smile in relief as your senses modulate. The Faeries' Wheel! The Faeries' Wheel! One silver buys a ride! Come right in! Step right up! Your carriage waits inside! Witness the trail of people as they circumnavigate The many festive tents they've set up on this big estate. The Faeries' Wheel! The joy it brings your smiles illustrate! Still, at the top, the distance from the ground seems very great. Suddenly your heart stops- and with yourself you hold debate, Was that a flying gnome?! There is no time to speculate! The Faeries' Wheel! The Faeries' Wheel! One silver buys a ride! Come right in! Step right up! Your carriage awaits inside! Outside the swinging carriage, the views simply scintillate! You beam at your companion as you both luxuriate! All too soon, the ride will end, as your descent will indicate, And to your fondest memories, the Faeries' Wheel you'll relegate. But for the final moments before the Faeries' Wheel you must vacate, Savor the grand experience you've had. Let your happiness resonate! The Faeries' Wheel! The Faeries' Wheel! One silver buys a ride! Come right in! Step right up! Your carriage awaits inside!

• (Placeholder) Gambling
• (Placeholder) Jack, the Pirate
• (Placeholder) The Hunt
• (Placeholder) The Violin

Guild Related

• (Placeholder) Outside the Bank

Phelim

Commissioned by Zynell for the Order of the Apostles' Dream Event 439 AV Dry your tears, they are starlight now. Against the heavens' blackened shade They are diamonds in the night. Tamsine, be ye comforted, And look what I have made. The nightingale flew across the sky Where once there was no light. And drew the eyes of Tamsine Who saw how the stars shone bright. Strike your hammer, and craft four moons. Amongst the twinkling stars I've laid They'll rise and fall, marking the night. Kertigen, you'll be revered, For the moons that you have made. The nightingale flew toward the moons While Kertigen observed his flight, And set them turning in their place When he reached their heavenly height. The fourth moon hatched and danger woke. Phelim's ambush our demise delayed So we can sleep in peace each night. World Dragon, be awake no more And end the chaos you have made. The nightingale left the creature to sleep In Elanthia's heart- a prison tight. Now Peri'el sings her soothing songs, And they've saved the world from darker plight. We walk under his cloak of stars. Beneath his moons, we're unafraid We dance and celebrate tonight. Phelim, we acknowledge you, And the wonders you have made. Sweet nightingales remind us all Of greater deeds, of wrongs made right, And how we have Phelim to thank For sweet dreams that give us such delight.

• (Placeholder) The Guardian
• (Placeholder) The Guildhall
• (Placeholder) The Langenfirth Bard Guild
• (Placeholder) Trader

Historical

• (Placeholder) Gorbesh
• (Placeholder) Neithrel

Inspiration

• (Placeholder) Inspiration

The One Who Leads

When inspiration moves my quill And sunrise over hillsides spill She leads me swiftly where she will. I follow where she leads. Sometimes she leads to oceanside, Sometimes to where my feelings hide, She finds the places I reside. To you, she sometimes leads. My deepest thoughts flow through my pen And I start writing once again. In silence or by noisy din. I start to take the lead. My confidence, each shattered piece, Salvaged so gently, fears decrease. Doubts, once so strong, their whispers cease. I revel as I lead. Her eyes I feel upon my page Words fly like birds freed from their cage The wounds of quiet pen assuage. She smiles while I lead.

• (Placeholder) The Quill

Love

Love Found

• (Placeholder) Beloved
• (Placeholder) Elements
• (Placeholder) Falling
• (Placeholder) In the Garden
• (Placeholder) Ranger Love
• (Placeholder) The Ledge
• (Placeholder) The Muse
• (Placeholder) The Paragon and His Love
• (Placeholder) Treasure
• (Placeholder) Two
• (Placeholder) Waterfall

• Wedding Song for a Friend

Love Lost

• (Placeholder) Long Days
• (placeholder) Passerby
• (Placeholder) Regret
• (Placeholder) The Bay
• (Placeholder) The End

Love Seeking

• (Placeholder) Together

Love Threatened

• (Placeholder) The Elven Lovers

Love Wistful

• (Placeholder) Empty
• (Placeholder) Half a World Away
• (Placeholder) The Gift
• (Placeholder) Unrequited

Lullabies

• (Placeholder) Burden
• (Placeholder) Sleep

Sleepy Lullaby

Close your eyes while the music plays. Let the warm fire soothe you. Set aside your worries. As the moon shines down, close your eyes. Gone are the troubles of the day, Lifted up to the sky, Released like birds, they fly. Dispersed like mist, they fade away. The day that held you in its grasp, Without a needed rest Puts you, safe, in your nest Removing its restrictive clasp.

Memorials

• (Placeholder) The Ballad of Kittrinna Muffkins

Places

Ode to Langenfirth

Commissioned by The Theren Guard for their event, "Songs for Therengia" Portions adapted slightly from "The Langenfirth Bard Guild" Langenfirth for hearth and home. Langenfirth for stout and ale. Langenfirth for hunting grounds and for Rangers on the trail. Langenfirth for friend and mate. Langenfirth for child and kin. "Lang" fills a very special place held somewhere deep within. Within a quiet, peaceful clearing, an ancient fir tree stands, And I, atop its splendor, my gaze unfettered, view the lands. Once I sought adventure, blind to the time the journey would take, Leaving my fair village on the shore of Gwenalion's Lake. I saw many wondrous places, far away from where I'd been. Elanthia's jungles, isles, and towns- all muses for my pen. Each day I wandered I discovered wells of inspiration, But in the depths of night I felt a quiet desperation, I trained my sword, wrote my songs, and studied every dusty tome, But I missed Danduwen Forest and the comforts of my home. In Langenfirth, I hear owls call when darkness comes each night, Smell the fresh scent of fir trees, and follow trails of dappled light. There are sweet primroses and bright yellow cat's-ears by the roads, Woodmice dart throughout the hedges, to the sounds of croaking toads. On the lake, the patient fishermen cast out their line and wait, While teeming fish play in the lake, avoiding the tempting bait. All along the wharf where barrels sit near crates piled around, A duck waddles between the stacks, seeking food upon the ground. The wind whistles, while I watch treetops wave toward each northern hill As they meet the green-clad mountains, and all other life stands still. I revel in the bright blue sky sometimes hidden from the trail By the dense, dark leaves of her forest that form a verdant veil- When inside the Bowyer's shop we once claimed as a Bardic Hall Jarrod's infinite patience with our merriment I recall. At long last, with joy, I have returned to see those things I've missed, Finally to taste her ale, walk the paths that wind and twist. I cherish the warm embraces from the friends I knew before. Although I had adventures, being back home means so much more. Atop her ancient tree, I gaze out at these beloved lands, Standing high above the quiet, peaceful clearing, where it stands. There is no town that can match my village's every wonder, No sweeter place for songbirds than her trees which I walk under. The Binfolk's laughing camaraderie also plays a part In making Langenfirth the town I keep closest to my heart. The blissfulness she brings me cannot be measured or surpassed As I listen to the sounds that tell me I am home at last. Langenfirth for hearth and home. Langenfirth for stout and ale. Langenfirth for hunting grounds and for Rangers on the trail. Langenfirth for friend and mate. Langenfirth for child and kin. "Lang" fills a very special place held somewhere deep within.

Scenes from the Bin

Commissioned by Lillietta, who gave me names, a little bit of information, a basic concept, and some ideas for phrases she wanted me to use in this song. The binfolk are a happy bunch who laugh throughout the day And the Lady behind the Curtain peeks out. Let's hear what she has to say! The ones she sees as she sits 'round the bin are honorable or at least they try. But then Lasaia starts making some mischief, while Shelken sits nearby. Queen Vadne and her consort, Fitzgor, observe their kingdom large, Just a few quick steps away from the trail, the tanner and Barge. Vadne's Special Ranger, Senthic, observes Harsh's frequent gestures. They laugh upon the antics of "hidden" Hoger and Baylix- their Jesters. Nilme comes and takes a seat as they drag a body in. Oh, it's just Koramoor, he must have died- yet again. People bring boxes to pick- as many as they can carry And Almarius might bounce in, with a smiling Dairy. Brehm, Kintryn, and Merilwen stop by the court, With Vixonia, (her virtues Stelling will exhort)! And if you watch closely you might see Miranza, Rush past Theren Guard recruiter Aaiyaah. Intrigue fills their merry court as Darkgaze, by the tree, Tempts those who might join his secret cult by offering them tea. Mireillere and Malykai come and relax in this idyllic scene, And Lady in Waiting, Lillietta, closes her eyes and begins to daydream. She imagines groups of people and names them as they pass. Will her titles spread far and wide, for groups that gather en masse? A keg of Bards pass out liquor So the enclave of Empaths gets sauced As the head of a warren of Rangers FINALLY finds the trail- no longer lost. Next comes a commune of clerics And a nest of necromancers at war. Look at the lightning of a wrath of War Mages! Can you hear the blunder of Barbarians roar? A mystic of Moon Mages come through a gate As the Lady continues to name. Sneaking by is a pocket of Thieves, A penance of Paladins look on with disdain. Awake from her daydream and present once more, Lillietta smiles at those she is so thankful for. She sees so many friends and so many faces, Who stay for a while before running off places. And if you stop by, you'll be welcomed in By the binfolk that sit by the Langenfirth bin.

• (Placeholder) The Trail
• (Placeholder) Therenlethgenfirth, The Musical

Sad/Wistful

• (Placeholder) Reunion
• (Placeholder) The Boat
• (Placeholder) The Fallen Knight
• (Placeholder) Untrue

Original Stories

Toy Soldier

TEXT

Find Out More!

• Nilme Iondu'il
• Nilme's Alterations
• Nilme's Homes
• Nilme's Timeline
• Nilme's Artwork

OOC

• Discord: Nilme Iondu'il#2122