Chapter Forty-Six

Drumroll... The drums, the sounds, the lights were resonating throughout the villages. Celebration under the moonlight. The elves held their lanterns hanging from tree branches and the fairies with their bright lights. Nucamma joined the crowd of spectators and the congregation was thick. There was dancing and chanting around a small fire that they made. The salamander guards were there. Everyone was anxious to see who was the chosen one. The new leader of them all.

Atohmma sat there veiled. She was unexposed to the congregation for a while. The Shaman had a ritual to complete at the foot of the mountain and before the actual crowning began. The Diamond-Back oracle Cobra found its way closer to the site of excitement in one of the trees. The Chief sage started to give his speech. He spoke about the young fairy that came to his village, uncertain about who she was and always had been. He mentioned, the adjustments that she had to make and the new things she came to learn and understand about herself. How she finally understood she was ordained to become their new leader and queen. Then he stretched his hand toward her, asking the crowd to welcome her into her new role. He said, that she would be needing all the support she could get, although he knew, that she was receiving much support, from her newfound family, the elves. The congregation began applauding her and whistling and chanting in their own way. After they quieted, the Chief announced, "I now introduce to all of you, your new leader, your queen and the chosen one among us, Atohmma!

Her veil was removed from her face and she stood up before them. She spread her wings and hovered high above them, allowing all to be able to see her. The noise they made rang through their world. Many were excited over this long-awaited moment. Some were surprised. Venomma's hands couldn't resist blocking her mouth in awe. Orgamma's eyes opened as wide as they could, accompanied by his mouth. They were surprised, not so much in knowing that Atohmma was actually the chosen one, but at the sight of her before them. She seemed like a totally different person. Like someone, they didn't know. She exuded royalty, strength, power, beauty and magnificence. Venomma noticed her eyes, ears and the size of her wings. She never imagined anyone transforming in so many ways. Tears filled her eyes. Orgamma was proud and excitement filled him, but he also couldn't believe her drastic transformation. Nucamma was not as surprised as the others, but he felt proud. He smiled and admired her extraordinary appearance over them. She was beautiful, he thought. Many didn't recognize her. She lowered herself slowly and closed her wings, walking forward under the tent. She took a seat next to the Chief and there he placed the crown upon her head. There was much more jubilation.

Atohmma stood up again, before the natives. They quieted and she spoke saying, "Thank you, all of you, for this amazing welcome and acceptance. I know, this may come as a surprise to many of you and some not so much, but it was a surprise to me also. I always heard about the legends but didn't believe it to be true until I came to the elven village. I learnt about my family, my history and myself, after hearing the truth about the legends. I learnt about my role and the part I had to play in this world. I understood who I was becoming, thanks to the coaching and support of my Lord and our Chief. To my friends and those from my village, I made you believe that I had to leave to go on a vacation to rest, but that decision was under the advice of the Shaman and not something I knew I had to do. It was all a surprise to me, especially because I was already transforming while I was among you all. I didn't know how to deal with it and what it was about." The crowd muttered among themselves in understanding. She continued saying, " When I left the village, I already had new ears and new wings. Yes! I did. I just hid them. I was too afraid to show them. Coming here, made me realize how much knowing my true family mattered to me. Although I already have my village family, the elves were a welcomed addition for me. Being crowned and honored by all of you, from all the villages, gives me the encouragement to rule and lead you in ways I was unable to as your 'go-to person. Now, I can say, I am well equipped for the role as I am expected to be. I had the training, preparation and gained enough wisdom to understand my function as the leader and protector of our world. Thank you and may we all continue to enjoy the celebrations."

She took her seat and there was mingling, singing and dancing. Light refreshments were served, because of the time and many went up to the constructed tent to greet Atohmma and to personally welcome her into her new role. Many were her friends from the village, sharing hugs and their amazement with her look. Some were elders and others were children. Venomma and Orgamma, waited a while until most of the natives gave her their regards. When they went toward her, they both hugged her at the same time, Venomma with tears in her eyes and Orgamma patting her on the shoulder for being strong about her decision. They wished they had known so that they could have given her their support. They wanted to be there for her, but they understood her dilemma at the time. Nucamma followed, giving her hugs and greetings. He whispered to her ear, how proud he was that she made it through and happy that her big day finally came.