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Danicia Dawnflame; Heiress to the Dawnflame fortune. Born with a silver spoon in her mouth, this pink Tiefling knew nothing but the finest in life. Daughter of two prominent figures in Divitae’s high society: Valrai Dawnflame, a stoic yet charming, crimson-skinned tiefling who stood as one of the city’s most influential businessmen, and Euphoria Dawnflame, the radiant coloratura of Divitae’s opera scene, known for her elegant demeanor and moonlight-hued skin and hair.
Having such busy parents, Danicia was often left to the care of nannies and butlers. Her day to day consisted of lessons with tutors who drilled her in history, science, and economics. Yet even from a young age, her true passion was music. Like her mother, Danicia was blessed with the gift of song. Though her voice was a clear contrast from the clear soprano of her mother, carrying a gravelly, textured edge and a resonance that could penetrate the very soul of those who heard it. She’d spend hours alone in her family’s music room, getting lost in the beauty each note could create. Music became her escape, filling the quiet of her life and making her feel less alone in the world.
As Danicia grew, so did her passion. But it soon blazed into something untamable, unable to be confined to refined recitals and quiet practices. Her enthusiasm became a tempest of raw energy that defied the refined reputation her family had worked so hard to cultivate. Her parents watched with growing concern as their daughter’s fervor and disregard for social convection caused a stir in Divitae’s high society.
One evening she was summoned to the parlor. A rare chance to get to speak to her parents directly. But when she arrived, she knew this wasn’t going to just be a pleasant family chat. Their expressions were grave in the dim light of the room, her father’s gaze steady and piercing as ever, while the mask of composed elegance her mother always wore concealed a deep worry. They spoke to her of legacy, reputation, and the weight of the Dawnfire name. A burden that she, even at such a young age, had to carry with her. They warned her of the dangers her unbridled passion and reckless sincerity could do to the narrow line she walked, in a social class that valued appearances and discretion above all. Danicia felt their words settle, like a new weight added to her shoulders. For the first time in her life, she felt a tremor of doubt, like a whisper of caution that began to shape the way she perceived her actions.
From that day forward Danicia chose to fall in line with what was expected of her. Allowing her vibrant spirit to be dimmed for the sake of societal conformity. She became adept at navigating the marble halls of high society, mastering the art of charm and grace. Wearing it like a carefully crafted mask, hiding that spark that still lived deep within her heart.
It was around the age of sixteen when Danicia began to wonder what lay outside of Divitae’s mighty walls. Dreaming of a life where she wouldn’t be forced to portray a caricature of herself to please her parents. She wanted to see the world. Share her gift of music with them. Find somewhere that people would love her for her.
So one night it was her turn to summon her parents. Begging them to let her go out and see the world. But her parents were still hesitant, fearing that influences from the world outside Divitae would corrupt their daughter that had worked so hard to make perfect. That her roaring passion would resurface and tarnish the Dawnfire name forever. They felt the weight of the legacy they had to uphold, knowing a single misstep could prove fatal to their reputation. But still their daughter begged, promising she’d do nothing to harm their name, even willing to change her last name if she had to. But they conceded. Her parents eventually gave in, knowing their family name would allow her privilege elsewhere. They agreed to set her up with a comfortable fund for her travels with the promise that she would tread lightly on her journey.
And so she did. With a mixture of excitement and trepidation, she set off on her journey. The moment she stepped out of Divitae, a rush of exhilaration washed over her. She felt the thrill of possibility, of adventure waiting at every turn.
However as she got further from home, her parents' warning followed her like a shadow. The whispering fear of becoming a scandal reminding her of the delicate balance she had to maintain. With every new experience, she navigated the world with caution, determined to protect her family’s legacy.
Her performances outside of Divitae brought a feeling of genuine connection that she had been searching for for so many years. A warmth that she had long to feel. But even in the joys of her supposed freedom, Danicia was still gravely aware of the expectations that loomed over her like a cloud.
A little over a year into her journey, an early winter storm threw her off her course to Florence roh, and forced her to have to take shelter in the humble mountain town of Valleyview. And it was here that she had a strange dream.
She awoke laying in a dark void, the ground beneath her covered in about an inch of water.
“Danicia Dawnflame,” an unfamiliar voice spoke, gentle and kind. “Songbound soul, weighed down by legacy. I have a request for you.”
Danicia got to her feet. “Who are you?” she asked, looking around at the pitch black expanse. Whoever this was clearly knew her, but she couldn't tell how they would.
“You may call me Lttilo.” the voice spoke “I am your goddess. I mean no harm to you.”
Danicia tensed at the word ‘goddess’. This… this couldn’t be real. Could it? She had no belief in the gods that were said to rule the universe. But here one supposedly was. “W-What do you want from me?” she asked, her voice trembling slightly. She could sense a slight smile form on the goddess’s face.
“Danicia, your fate does not simply lie in performing. There is far more to you than the mask you put forward.” as the voice spoke, four figures suddenly formed in the blackness of the void. First was a half-elf with striking white hair, features delicate yet magnetic—a face she could only describe as that of a pretty boy. Beside him stood a rugged, scarred half-orc, a massive sword slung casually over his shoulder. To his right, a blonde elf twisted her hands together, her wide eyes flickering with a nervous intensity. and finally, there was a plain-looking human girl. but her stance was bold,her gaze burning with a fierce, unyielding determination.
Danicia’s heart raced as she looked around at the figures around her, feeling a blend of curiosity and anxiousness. These strangers seemed worlds apart from the refined company she was used to — each one rugged, intense, and bearing a striking individuality. Yet something in the way they each carried themselves called out to her. The half elf’s calm radiance, the half orcs rugged strength, the elf’s trembling resolve, and the human’s bold determination. It was like each reflected back a part of herself she kept hidden away behind her mask. Yet something about that fact made her feel exposed, like the figures before her saw right through her. She swallowed hard and tried to remain steady on her feet. “Who are these people?” she asked, unable to hide the uncertain edge to her voice.
“Your allies on the journey yet to come. Find them, and all will be made clear.” the figures around her and the void started to dissipate. She was waking up.
“But where do I find them?!” Danicia called out, but there was no answer in response. The void beneath her gave way, and the darkness swallowed her whole.
Danicia woke up with a start. Her body jolting to an upright position, heart hammering in her chest. She was in her room at the Grand Griffon Inn; the nicer of the two lodgings in Valleyview. Dawn light seeped in through the window, casting a soft glow on the modest furnishings of the room. She breathed in the slightly dusty air of the room, Her mind racing replaying the strange vision: the darkness of the void, the voice of a goddess, the four mysterious individuals. She continued to breathe, trying to calm herself but her thoughts continued to circle back to the message she’d received. Find them. But who were they, how could she even locate strangers whose names she didn't know?
She swung her feet over the edge of the bed, planting her feet firmly on the wooden floor. Questions pressed against her mind, each one heavier than the previous one. This was the most vivid dream she’d ever experienced — so real it felt impossible. And yet something inside her felt different. As if some hidden part of her had stirred awake.
If this Lttilo was real… if she truly was a goddess, Danicia thought, the tremor of fear she felt mixed with hope, then maybe her life did hold a purpose beyond her family’s legacy.
But as she got dressed and gathered her things for the day, doubt and skepticism crept in. Gods? Destiny? she had never believed in such things before, so why start now? But still that glimmer of hope clung to her.
Eventually, she resolved to treat it as nothing more than a strange dream. And yet that voice still lingered in her mind, soft but insistent, reminding her of that quiet directive. Find them, and all will be made clear.
Danicia descended the stairs to the main hall and made her way to the marketplace to gather supplies for her trip to Florence Roh. But as she was talking with the owner of the rations stand, they informed her that the previous night's snow storm had caused a roadblock on the road leading to where she planned to go. And that with winter approaching it may be best to remain in Valleyview until it passes.
Danicia felt a surge of frustration. She’d be stuck here for what was likely to be at least three months, if not longer, in a sleepy little mountain town. That was far from her original plan and grated against her desire to get moving and hopefully put the thought of that dream out of her mind. But a sense of uncertainty crept in. After the dream she’d experienced, the idea of being forced to stay felt confining, but oddly purposeful. Part of her wondered if this setback was somehow connected to the goddess’s words. Perhaps staying here would lead her to the answers she needed. Even if she wasn't fully ready to accept them.
Danicia thanked the shop keeper and casually tossed her a gold coin despite having not bought anything before walking away. The chill in the air barely registered as her thoughts raced ahead. What am I doing here? She wondered, this place feels too small… too quiet. The thought of being stuck in Valleyview away from the freedom and adventure she craved so dearly, gnawed at her relentlessly.
Lost in her own thoughts, Danicia didn’t even register that her feet had carried her toward a nearby tavern, the old worn out sign reading ‘The Prancing Pony’. The other inn that she had been told about, that also doubled as a tavern. Well, she usually waited until the evenings to perform, but she felt a performance would do her good to get her mind off of things. She stepped inside, the chill of the outside giving way to a pleasant warmth. The tavern was surprisingly full, possibly other travelers who were also forced to seek shelter from the storm.
She made her way to the barkeeper and asked if there was any place here for a bard to perform. The portly halfling behind the bar nodded and pointed to the corner where a small raised platform stood with a single spotlight pointed at it. He asked what she’d request for payment but Danicia told him no payment was necessary, which shocked the halfling. He called it nonsense for someone not to be paid for their work and in the end offered her a hot breakfast for her trouble. It wasn't until that moment Danicia even realized she hadn’t eaten anything that morning, so she accepted.
She made her way to the stage and took out her cherrywood lute. one of the many gifts she had received from her parents as a child. Sitting down on the stool, she realized she couldn’t really see the crowd very well with how bright the spotlight was. But oh well. She began to play a tune she’d recently picked up from a night at a tavern in Tijatra, an old folk song according to the Tabaxi that taught it to her.
There will come a soldier
Who carries a mighty sword
He will tear your city down, oh lei oh lai oh Lord
Oh lei, oh lai, oh lei, oh Lord
He will tear your city down, oh lei oh lai oh Lord
As she played she tried her best to scan the crowd as she usually did. Her gaze scanned the room, seeing if people enjoyed what she was playing. She could see some heads bobbing along. Even the occasional person singing along who must've heard it before. Out of the corner of her eye she saw what appeared to be an orc – At least maybe a half orc, come down the stairs into the dining hall. Their face was hard to see in the glare of the spotlight.
There will come a poet
Whose weapon is His word
He will slay you with His tongue, oh lei oh lai oh Lord
Oh lei, oh lai, oh lei, oh Lord
He will slay you with His tongue, oh lei oh lai oh Lord
As she continued to strum, her eyes drifted again, catching glimpses of the crowd beyond the spotlight. An elderly couple swaying to the music, small groups of what appeared to be soldiers dancing in the open center of the tavern hall — one of which seemed to have pulled a poor barmaid to dance with him, and some people leaning against the walls just watching the performance. One of those against the wall caught her eye. The first thing she spotted was the stark white hair, and with some focus she made out the face of a young man. A pretty boy, with an aura that radiated a calm and slightly amused vibe. Her mind flickered back to the half elf from her dream. No. it couldn’t be, She thought, looking away from the young man. She was just imagining things
There will come a ruler
Whose brow is laid in thorn
Smeared with oil like David's boy
, oh lei oh lai oh Lord
Oh lei, oh lai, oh lei, oh Lord
Smeared with oil like David's boy
, oh lei oh lai oh Lord
Oh lei, oh lai, oh lei, oh Lord
He will tear your city down, oh lei oh lai... oh
Danicia directed her gaze back to the crowd of revelers dancing in the center. Seemed another girl had gotten dragged into the fray. She watched the newcomer with amusement as she stumbled her way into the throng, at first Danicia could only catch glimpses of her in the crowd — a slight figure with loose blonde hair. Hands flailing slightly as if she didn’t know what to do with them. Then, as the girl attempted to take a step back, it seemed her foot caught something protruding from the floor. In an instant she tripped backwards, the tavern's light catching her wide panicked eyes as she tripped over a massive sword that rested against the table next to the same half orc she saw earlier. The orc panicked and started profusely apologizing as he helped the poor girl to her feet. It was her. That same elven girl she’d seen the night before. Those were the same wide eyes that the girl had. And looking to the half orc — who now had taken to checking her for injuries, he was the same guy she’d seen too. Danicia started scanning the room in a panic as the entire tavern was singing along to her song.
Oh lei, oh lai, oh lei, oh lai, oh
Oh lei, oh lai, oh lei, oh lai, oh
Oh lei, oh lai, oh lei, oh lai, oh lei, oh lai, oh lei, oh lai, oh
Danicia’s eyes locked onto the young barmaid from earlier. A plain girl, no older than sixteen or seventeen, laughing as she danced with the soldier boys. Her eyes alight with joy that radiated from her. The human girl… they were all here.
As the last cords left her strings, the song came to an end. The entire tavern erupting into cheers and applause as she takes a shaky bow. Her heart raced, her mind whirling in disbelief. She had hoped that maybe her dream was just some strange passing vision, but here they all were. Unmistakably so: the lively human girl, the nervous elf, the brawny half orc, and the pretty boy half elf. They were all here in one room, woven into the crowd like they all belonged here. She felt a mixture of curiosity, shock, and something that felt dangerously close to dread. It was completely overwhelming.
Straightening back up, Danicia felt the weight of fate begin to settle, as if invisible threads were pulling her toward the strangers in the crowd — strangers who felt even more strange by the moment. As the applause died down, the tavern returned to its usual lively clamor. Danicia’s thoughts raced. Should she approach them? What would she even say? Did they all get the same vision too? Did they recognize her as well?
She once again locked eyes with the half elf at the back of the room. Dressed in white pristine robes almost like that of a priest. He was staring at her with an intensity that told her everything she needed to know… he recognized her.
Danicia quickly put up her lute and shambled off of the stage and over to the bar, where the halfling bartender promptly placed a plate of steaming flapjacks with bacon and a few what appeared to be blueberries. He thanked her for her performance, telling her it was the liveliest one he’s seen in almost 20 years, before leaving her alone to eat. She barely had time to settle into her meal before she felt someone slide into the seat beside her, a voice calling to the bartender asking him for something. By his accent, he sounded like he was from The Windy Plains. When she finally turned her head to look at him, sure enough, it was the half elf.
He didn’t even look at her before beginning to speak. “Quite the performance.” he said, his voice even and calm. “Haven’t heard a song like that in a long time.”
“Thank you,” Danicia replied, quickly attempting to brush off her nerves. “Picked it up in Tijatra not long ago.”
He nodded, letting a moment of silence settle between them as the bartender came by, passing him a mug of coffee. “I’m Asrail by the way. I’m a Paladin of Lttilo” he glanced at her from the corner of his eye, as if gadging her reaction to that information. The name, spoken so casually, sent a jolt down Danicia’s spine. The same goddess from her vision.
“You’re… So you’re with Lttilo?” she repeated, her voice little more than a shaky whisper. A million questions swirled in her head, each one battling for attention. But with a deep breath, she simply asked, “Are you… Looking for me?”
His smile softened and he gave a slight shrug. “You could say that,” he replied casually, he had a calmness about him as though he understood something Danicia couldn’t — or wouldn't see. “By your face on stage I have a feeling you were looking for me too.”
“Not purposefully.” she clarified, glancing back to her plate. “So… this whole thing here. In the tavern.” she murmured, trying to act casual. “You think this was planned? Like you know… fate?”
“Yes actually,” Asrail answered simply. “Lttilo guided us all here. One way or another.” great. Danicia thought So even trying to get my mind off of this was all planned.
Danicia let out a short laugh, shaking her head. “Right. The goddess sent us. I mean, you maybe — You’re a paladin and all.” she said, gesturing to him “You’ve got the whole devine-duty thing going on. But me? No offense, but I think there's been some kind of mistake.” she took another bite of her pancakes, hoping that would be the end of it.
But no, Asrail only looked at her, a calm patience in his eyes. “You don’t really believe that.”
Danicia scoffed, setting her fork down “Of course I do. I mean, look at me. I'm just a bard. I sing songs and tell silly stories. This goddess — she’s got the wrong person. I can’t possibly be a part of…” she trailed off slightly, looking back to where the half orc and elf had been. Now with them stood the human girl. They’d all clearly recognized each other, and the human girl was talking their ears off. “This…” she added, her tone almost somber as she glanced back at her plate.
Asrail looked away from her, a soft smile still on his lips. “I don’t think she makes mistakes,” he said gently. “I think she called you because she knows exactly who you are — and what you’re capable of.”
Danicia forced another laugh, but it came out feeling hollow. “I'm sorry, but this just sounds ridiculous. I’m only here because of some stupid blizzard. I don’t know how I got that dream, or why I’m seeing these people from it. There’s no grand destiny here, alright?”
Asrail looked at her again, watching her with a gaze that seemed to see right through her denial. “You can tell yourself that, but it doesn’t change what’s happening. The others are here. I’m here… and whether or not you like it, Danicia. So are you.” he gave her a small, almost wistful smile. “Sometimes the world chooses us before we are ready.”
Danicia shook her head again, a knot forming in her stomach. “Well I didn’t ask to be chosen.” she responded, her voice trembling.
Asrail’s gaze softened slightly. “Neither did I.” he confessed, as he stood up to leave. “But maybe it’s time you start asking why you were.”
And with that, he turned and left, walking over to the other four, and leaving her to her thoughts.
Danicia remained at the bar, absently pushing the last few bites of her pancakes around on her plate. Asrail’s words replayed in her mind, each one settling over her like an unwelcome weight. She hadn’t asked for this. Hell, she hadn’t asked for any of it, really. All her life, expectations had been stacked upon her shoulders, each weightier than the last. Her parents expected her to shine. To take what they’d blessed her with and make something of herself. But always on their terms. By their high standards. Now here was another expectation, dressed up in mysticism and ‘destiny’. a goddess had dropped another command on her shoulders. One that threatened to crush her.
Her grip tightened around the fork in her hand. It wasn’t just disbelief that weighed on her — it was exhaustion. This wasn’t the first time she’d been told she was ‘Meant for something greater’. Everyone had their ideas of who she should be, and now, even a divine figure was piling on. It was almost laughable.
She glanced back to the others, now joined by Asrail, all chatting amiably. All of them seemed to have accepted their place. How could they not be overwhelmed? How could they not be questioning what it all meant? How could they just accept this?
Taking a shaky breath, she tore her eyes away from the others. If this was some ‘divine calling’, she wanted no part in it. Not now, when she could barely manage the expectations already resting on her. She’d left Divitae to get away from all that. Not to possibly uncover her fate.
But even as she tried to put it out of her mind, she couldn’t ignore the gnawing feeling that fate had already caught up to her. That no amount of running would change a thing. She pushed her plate away, her appetite long gone. All she wanted was for her life to be simple — to her hers alone. Yet everything Asrail had said, made her life feel a little less like her own.
The winter days in Valleyview were frigid and quiet, muffled by snow that made the days pass ever slower. Danicia fell into a rhythm, spending most of her days at the tavern, half-heartedly performing for her fellow trapped travelers or nursing a cup of mulled wine at the bar. Nights at The Grand Griffon were peaceful, though the dreams that plagued her were not. The voices of Asriel, Lttilo, and her parents haunted her, as the imprisoning winter dragged on.
The rare days she did venture out, she’d trudge through the snow blanketed streets to buy essentials from the local market. Though much to her annoyance, her shopping trips often acted as a reminder of the fate that was chasing after her.
It started with the young elven woman, who Danicia had come to know as Eliora. She’d run into her by the apothecary as she was trying to get herbs for tea and medicine. Danicia couldn’t help but eye the elf warily as she’d politely prod her about how she was finding Valleyview, and if she’d given the ‘vision’ any further consideration. Danicia would mumble something noncommittal before excusing herself. But Eliora’s kind gaze still lingered in her mind long after.
Then came the half-orc who introduced himself as Zadall. One night at the tavern, he had simply lumbered over with a mug of ale and sat with her in silence for a while. He hardly spoke, only giving her the occasional approving nod whenever she played something particularly nice. Danicia couldn’t quite tell what to make of him. He was clearly strong, and his stature was certainly intimidating, but he had this odd gentleness about him as well. A grounding presence that made it harder to deny everything that was happening.
Amity, the human girl was the most persistent of them all. Every time Danicia settled into a quiet corner, or though she’d go unnoticed by the bar, there was Amity— her eyes fixed on her with a determination that irked Danicia to no end.
One evening, as Danicia was sipping her wine and trying to ignore the stares of her fellow travelers, Amity casually slid into the seat beside her.
“Taking a break from our ‘destiny,’ are we?” Danicia quipped, voice dry as she took another sip.
Amity gave a small smile, her persistence undeterred by the tieflings' sarcasm. “More like checking in on someone who might be running from hers.” she replied, taking a sip of her own drink, which appeared to be hot cocoa. Her gaze rested on the bar as she continued. “I know you don’t want this, Danicia. But fate… has a funny way of catching up to us.”
Danicia’s jaw tightened. She’d heard enough of this. She felt the familiar weight pressing down on her shoulders, but now it felt like a mountain, one she was certain would crush her if she let it. “You know what I want?” she finally said, her voice low but laced with frustration. “I want a life that’s mine. Not some grand purpose.”
Amity nodded, her expression softening to an almost knowing look. “I know the feeling. Being told you’re meant to be something, when all you want is to choose your own path.” she looked up a bit, her eyes sparkling slightly in the low light, her mind lost in reverie. “But there’s something that my pa always told me when I was little: That we are more than just us… that we’re part of something bigger, whether we see it or not.” Amity’s gaze drifted for a moment, her face softened by memory. “He always said that purpose finds you in the moments you least expect it—when you’re just… doing what feels right.”
Danicia scoffed, her fingers tightening around her wine glass. “Easy for him to say, I’m sure. I bet he wasn’t dealing with visions and gods showing up in his dreams, ‘offering’ him some divine destiny he never asked for.”
Amity chuckled, but there was an almost bittersweet edge to it. “No, he wasn’t. But he hasn’t had an easy life either. He was a soldier, like a lot of men in this town. Even lost his arm because of it. But even after that when there were times he wanted to give up, move somewhere quieter and start fresh. He chose to stay for his family, for his friends… because that’s where he felt he was needed. He called that his purpose.”
Danicia shook her head, looking back down at her glass. “So, what, you’re saying I’m supposed to just accept this? That because it’s been thrust upon me, I should just roll over and let it happen?”
Amity shook her head, her voice quiet but firm. “Not exactly. I’m saying you have a choice. We all do. But maybe… maybe this is a chance to find something that makes you feel alive. To find out what it is you’re truly meant to do, instead of just running from what you’re afraid of.”
Danicia stared into her wine, Amity’s words swirling in her mind. She wanted to brush them off, but there was a warmth there—a hint of freedom, even—that she hadn’t considered before. “And what if…,” she began slowly, almost to herself, “what if I just don’t want to be ‘meant’ for anything? What if I just want to live my life, play my music, and be… free?” She turned her head to look at Amity to find the girl's gaze meeting hers. A gaze that was intense, but warm.
“Then that’s your choice, too. But don’t forget—sometimes, the things we’re meant for are the ones we’d choose if we were truly free to do so.” Amity replied gently
Danicia turned her gaze away from the girl again, taking another sip of her wine, trying to swallow down the tangled emotions that Amity’s words had stirred up. She’d spent so long running, pushing back against everything that tried to define her, that the thought of embracing something—anything—felt almost foreign.
Amity reached out, a soft, almost reassuring hand on her shoulder. “Whatever you decide, I just want you to know… you’re not alone. Not in this. Not ever.” and just like that, Amity stood and walked away, leaving Danicia alone with her thoughts and a nagging, reluctant sense that, no matter how hard she tried to resist it, something bigger was pulling her in.
Winter slowly waned in Valleyview, the harsh cold gradually giving way to a cautious warmth. The days gradually grew longer as the skies traded their steel gray hue for a gentler blue. Excited chatter could be heard from those who were more than ready to leave the sleepy town in pursuit of what lay ahead for them. Danicia went about her days in a hazy routine, finding some comfort in the quiet predictability, even as her dreams continued to unnerve her, visions of her past and of the looming ‘destiny’ she refused to acknowledge.
She crossed paths with the other members of the group occasionally. Asrail would nod at her respectfully whenever they crossed paths, his calm demeanor maddeningly unreadable. Eliora would sometimes pass her in the marketplace, giving her a serene but knowing smile, as if understanding the storm of emotions Danicia was keeping at bay. Zadall, was the most unobtrusive of them all, a quiet giant who nodded politely and gave her the space she so greatly desired.
But Amity—Amity was relentless. Every day, she would approach Danicia, whether at the tavern, in the town square, or during a quiet walk through the snow-dusted woods. Each time, she’d make her case for destiny, purpose, and the potential for something greater. Danicia would roll her eyes, brush her off, or leave abruptly, but Amity kept coming back, wearing down Danicia’s defenses little by little.
Finally, on the last night before the group was set to leave, Amity found her again at the bar. Danicia was halfway through a glass of wine, savoring the taste and the solitude, when Amity sat beside her, hot cocoa in hand as usual.
“Here we go again," Danicia muttered, not even looking up. “Haven’t you had enough of this?”
Amity took a sip of her cocoa, unbothered. “I could say the same to you.”
Danicia gripped her wine glass as she let out an exhausted sigh “You don’t get it, Amity. I don’t want this. I didn’t ask for any of it. The gods, the vision, this… prophecy nonsense. None of it. I just want a life of my own.”
Amity listened quietly, her gaze steady. “I know you don’t want it. And that’s fair. But maybe it’s not about what we want. Maybe it’s about what we’re meant to do. What we can give—”
“Give?” Danicia felt something break with that word. "You think I haven’t given enough?” Danicia snapped, her voice rising. Heads turned, but she didn’t care. The words poured out, years of frustration and anger finally breaking through. “My whole life, I’ve been told what I’m supposed to be. A perfect daughter, a perfect musician, a perfect… Everything. And now, I’m supposed to be some… chosen one, too?” Her voice cracked with bitterness. “It’s just another damn expectation to add to the pile.”
Amity’s expression softened, but she didn’t look away. “I know it feels that way. But what if this is different? What if—”
Danicia cut her off, her voice trembling with the intensity of her anger and despair. “No! I’m done with everyone else’s expectations! I’m done with all of it! If you want to go off and chase some grand purpose, be my guest. But leave me out of it!”
Silence fell between them, heavy and raw. Amity took a breath, her face pained but resolute. “I’m sorry, Danicia,” she murmured, her voice thick with emotion. “I didn’t mean to make you feel like this was another burden to carry.” She hesitated, then rose from her seat, giving Danicia one last, lingering look. “I just wanted to see you be who you truly are.”
And with that, she turned and left, leaving Danicia alone at the bar, her heart pounding, her emotions tangled in a mess of anger, regret, and a sadness she couldn’t shake.
As the laughter of travelers echoed around her, Danicia buried her face in her wine glass, seeking solace at the bottom, wishing for a moment of clarity amid the swirling storm of expectations and choices that loomed ahead. The warmth around her seemed to mock her isolation, and as she drained the last of her drink and quickly left the tavern. She just had to make it one more night. Then she’d be free from this… at least she hoped.
Sleep eluded her that night. She tossed and turned, the emotions and thoughts from her confrontation with Amity swirling in her mind, until at last, exhaustion claimed her. Pulling her into a dream most unlike the ones that had plagued her in the previous months.
Danicia found herself standing in a sun-drenched meadow. The warmth of the sun kissing her skin, a gentle breeze stirring the wildflowers around her, carrying with it the fresh scent of a new spring. Laughter from up ahead caught her attention and she looked to find its source. It was them — Asrial, Eliora, Zadall, and Amity — all walking together, their faces alight with joy. The world around her looked different somehow, radiant and alive under the shining sun. as if life itself thrummed with possibility and hope.
Amity looked back toward her and smiled, stopping on the trail as she stretched out a hand. “Come on, Danicia!” she called, her voice bright and inviting, “We’re waiting for you!”
A rush of warmth spread through Danicia’s chest, and for the first time in a long time, she felt the urge to smile. Without thinking she took a step forward, then another, and another, running toward the group that watched her with a smile. They were so full of life, so free. So much so that the idea of joining them began to feel like less of an obligation and more like an adventure.
Glimmers of the life ahead of her flickered through her mind: battles fought side by side against fearsome foes, her voice rising above the clash or swords. Laughter filled nights spent around a campfire, swapping stories and dreams beneath the stars. Exploring new places she never would have thought to go, discovering new things alongside the others.
Fleeting moments from her future passed her by—her music igniting hope in others, her laughter breaking through the heaviness of their burdens, and her heart swelling with the bond she shared with her newfound family. She felt her heart begin to beat again, hope for the future swelling in her chest.
But just as she was about to take Amity’s hand, it all shifted. The expansive meadow replaced by the cold marble walls of her family’s estate. Danicia blinked, disoriented as the warmth of the meadow evaporated, replaced by the chilling silence of her family’s estate.
Danicia looked to her left, where before her stood her parents, both watching her with those familiar piercing gazes. Their expressions were impassive, a mask she knew all too well. Her father’s hands were folded behind his back, and her mother’s chin tilted slightly upward, their postures proud and unyielding.
“Danicia,” her father’s voice rang out, low and weighted with an authority that seeped into her bones. “You are a Dawnflame. This is your place, your duty. You know that. You always have.”
Danicia’s heart pounded, her mouth opened to respond, but no sound came. Panic tightened around her chest as she tried to speak, to explain that she wanted something else—that she didn’t want to live confined within the walls of duty and expectation. Tears fell from her eyes as she thought back to the meadow, the warmth, the laughter, the joy that filled her heart. She wanted to tell them about all of it. but no words would come; her voice was lost, swallowed by the suffocating silence.
Her mother’s gaze softened, but only slightly, a glimmer of disappointment in her eyes. “Your music, your talent—it was given to you for a reason, Danicia. Do not throw it away on fantastical whims.” She took a step closer, her face almost tender as she added, “We expect better from you. Don’t you understand what it means to be a Dawnflame?”
A feeling of helplessness bore down on her. She wanted to scream, to cry out that she did understand, but she didn’t want it. She didn’t want to be weighed down by legacy, by duty, by everything they expected her to be. She was drowning under the weight of it, unable to breathe, to be free.
And then a voice cut through the oppressive silence — a soft and familiar one. “Danicia,”
Danica turned, and behind her stood Amity a few feet away. Her hand still outstretched, inviting her into freedom. Her warm smile radiated a comfort and strength that felt like a beacon in the darkness. “Come with me. You don’t have to be alone anymore.”
Danicia looked back at her parents, seeing the weight of their expectations etched into their faces. Guilt ate away at her, knowing that what she was about to do was going against everything they taught her. But she felt something else too—a finality, a quiet acceptance in her own heart. She couldn’t be what they wanted, not anymore. She turned and faced Amity, her gaze steady and encouraging. With a smile she raced toward her again, grabbing onto her hand like a lifeline.
The cold halls of her family’s estate melted away into the meadow, the sun shining above her once again. She found herself surrounded by the others, all of them welcoming her with open arms. In an instant, she was pulled into a tight embrace, their warmth enveloping her, grounding her.
And there, safe within the circle of her new family, Danicia felt something inside her break free. All the anger, the fear, the weight of her past crashed over her, and she buried her face against Amity’s shoulder, finally allowing herself to cry. She sobbed, each tear a release of the burden she had carried for so long, each one washing away a piece of the doubt that had held her back. Her new family held her close, comforting her in silence, their presence a balm she never knew she needed. For the first time, Danicia felt the true depth of her own strength, a strength that came not from obligation, but from choice. She was free to choose her path now, and she knew, without a doubt, that this was where she was meant to be.
Danicia’s eyes shot open, tears dampening her cheeks as dawn light shined in through the window. She laid there, heart racing as the memory of the dream settled over her, burrowing itself into her heart. It wasn’t just a dream anymore. It was a decision. One she'd fought vehemently against but now couldn't ignore.
Throwing back the covers, Danicia scrambled to her feet. She dressed quickly, her hands shaking as they fumbled with her clothing. She grabbed her lute, her travel cloak, and a small bag of essentials, stuffing them all together with frantic energy. No time to second-guess, no time to talk herself out of it. She had already lost enough time.
Slipping down the staircase she sprinted out of The Grand Griffon Inn and back towards The Prancing Pony, slamming the door open with enough force to make everyone in the bar jump. She looked around and the others were nowhere in sight. She ran to the bartender and asked breathlessly “Where did they go?”
No further elaboration was needed for the halfling, who had witnessed enough of her and Amity’s interactions to know exactly who she was talking about. “They just left, headed for the town's edge.” he explained “Run fast enough and you should be able to catch up before they reach the mountain trails.”
“Thank you!” Danicia shouted as she sprinted back out of the tavern, leaving confused travelers and soldiers in her wake. She swore she caught a soft, almost proud smile on the bartenders face as she left to catch up with the others
Danicia didn’t hesitate as she sprinted down the dirt and cobblestone streets, pushing past early morning vendors setting up shop for the day, determined to make her way through the awakening town. Her lungs and legs burned, her bag slapping against her side, but she didn’t care. She couldn’t let them leave without her. Not after everything.
As she reached the town's edge she spotted them, barely visible in the pale light of the dawn. She called out in a hoarse voice, “Wait!”
They turned in unison, surprise flickering across their faces. Amity’s eyes softened with recognition, and a smile broke across her face. The others looked on, looking both shocked and even slightly relieved.
Danicia skidded to a halt in front of them, breathing heavily, cheeks flushed from the run and the weight of her decision. For a moment, she struggled to find the right words, her heart racing with a mix of excitement and fear. Finally, she took a deep breath and looked each of them in the eye, determination glimmering in her gaze.
“If… if there’s still a place for me,” she began, her voice wavering but clear, “I’m ready. I want to be part of this. With all of you.” tears stung her eyes as she tried to force down the gnawing doubt in her mind.
Amity’s smile widened, and without another word, she stepped forward and wrapped Danicia in a tight, warm hug. One by one, the others joined them, each adding their presence to the embrace. Danicia felt herself relax, her shoulders shedding the weight of everything she’d carried alone for so long. As she closed her eyes, she whispered, both to them and also herself, “Thank you.”
With that, the group set off down the mountain trail. Sunlight poured over them, warm and welcoming, as though guiding them into their shared future. Danicia felt a sense of freedom she had never known before, her heart light as she glanced at her companions—the family she had chosen, and who had chosen her just as wholeheartedly.
Side by side, they ventured into the unknown, their hearts steady, spirits lifted, and eyes fixed forward, toward a future that shined as bright as the sun.
The End