Dwilight University/Arts/The Ballad of Jayle Trigger, or: The Troll's Nose

The Ballad of Jayle Trigger, or: The Troll's Nose by Ven Dhalgren

A ballad written by Ven Dhalgren in honour of Jayle Trigger, noble of Asylon, for her solitary battles against the monsters in the north of the realm, in the winter of 18YD.

The ballad is now popular in the taverns and inns of the south and best known as "The Troll's Nose". The singing is usually accompanied with spontaneous acting by someone in the crowd and general clapping of hands. At the end of the song, the actor impersonating Jayle would hold something high in the air - the troll's nose, usually a piece of cloth or someone's hat - and, while the troll lies on the floor holding his nose, throw it to the cheering crowd. A destiny of glory and adventures is said to await whoever catches it.

<<Oh Jayle, Jayle Trigger,

monsters descend on your region,

with fast pace, and thinking of dinner,

they cover the sun with their legion.

Oh Trigger, Trigger Jayle,

in the midst of this terrible destruction,

of focus and courage you are an isle,

what remains of them is just putrefaction.

Oh Jayle Trigger, Trigger your arrow,

perfectly built from the finest woods,

shall fly through the ether like in spring a sparrow,

and kill the leader and crash their troops' moods.

Oh Trigger, Trigger be observant,

on your side a troll jumps out with a scream,

but you with your dagger, your faithful servant,

cut out its nose with the speed of a dream.

Oh Jayle, defender of the north,

saving your region you proved us your worth. (twice)

Oh Trigger, that against those beasts rose,

keep always your trophy, a gibbous troll's nose! (twice)>>