[Hall of the Body]
Solid walls and towering pillars of ice imbue this room with an aura of dignity and strength.  The south wall is inlaid with two side-by-side symbols, and the walls to the east and west provide a backdrop for an altar and a large tapestry.  A woven rug threaded with hues of crimson, silver, azure and ivory covers most of the frozen floor, its intricate sigils forming an interwoven pattern of great beauty.  An ivory statue of a steed and an owl stands before the two wall symbols.  You also see a mosaic mural.
Obvious exits: north, down
Zenaxa, Thaleles, Perigourd, Missoni, Charna, Turinrond, Noonee, Aydan, Ashenath, Entress and Laleena followed.

You say, "And here we are."

Laleena gazes thoughtfully at the ivory statue.

You say, "Please be seated."

Laleena smiles.

Entress sits down.

Thaleles sits down.

Zenaxa sits down.

You say, "Laleena is our lecturer this eve."

Turinrond kneels down.

Ashenath sits down.

Zenaxa nods to Laleena in greeting.

You say, "She will be speaking to us on Leya."

Noonee sits down.

Laleena nods to Zenaxa.

Missoni sits down.

Laleena strides a few steps forward.

Missoni steeples her fingers in her lap, quietly observing her surroundings.

Aydan sits down.

You say, "Please be kind enough to give her yer full attention."

You say, "And hold all questions and comments until she opens the floor for them."

You smile.

You nod to Laleena.

Laleena bows to you.

(Iscikella moves to the back of the room)

Laleena says, "Thank ye."

You sit down.

You smile at Laleena.

Laleena says, "Evenin', folks."

Laleena says, "Fer those that I haven't already said as much to."

Laleena says, "To begin, I'd like to thank the host of this festival fer havin' me.  I always enjoy talkin' 'bout Leya, and I appreciate the opportunity to do so tonight."

Laleena says, "Also, I'd like to thank the rest of ye fer showin' up.  Interest in the Lady is somethin' I'm always grateful to see."

Laleena grins.

Laleena says, "Some days, I could pay fer another follower."

Laleena says, "They seem so few."

Laleena glances around the room.

Zenaxa ducks her head.

Noonee nods to Laleena.

Laleena says, "But, without much more ado, I think we'll get started."

Laleena asks, "I'm assumin' that the most of ye have a purdy good idea of who Leya is, since yer here and all.  Is that a fairly accurate assumption?"

Laleena raises an eyebrow.

Missoni holds up her hand and tilts it side to side in a so-so gesture.

Turinrond shakes his head.

Zenaxa says, "I dun kow much bout her."

Laleena nods.

Laleena says, "We'll start with that, then."

Noonee grins at Laleena.

Charna grins slowly.

Laleena says, "Leya is the daughter of Kai and an Ardenai elf named Learya."

Noonee leans forward and rests her chin in her hand, a thoughtful expression on her face.

Laleena says, "Her martial skills come from both sides of the family, as her mother was said to have been especially blessed with archery skill as well as other aspects of the hunt."

Lacing his fingers together, Turinrond's body stiffens as he quietly listens to Laleena.

Laleena says, "It is also said that Leya's mother bore the gift of prescience."

Laleena holds up her hand and tilts it side to side in a so-so gesture.

Noonee nods to Laleena.

Laleena says, "Some think it possible that she had some measure of Arkati blood herself."

Zenaxa leans forward and rests her chin in her hand, a thoughtful expression on her face.

Laleena says, "But, Leya's mother was lost in childbirth and Kai, so deep was his grief, left Leya in the hands of her mother's people."

Missoni winces.

Laleena says, "It's said that as she was dyin', Learya foretold a darkness to come in her daughter's future."

You shudder.

Laleena says, "Ambiguous at the least, but as the story unfolds, it becomes more clear."

Zenaxa turns an inquisitive ear towards Laleena.

Turinrond raises his eyebrow, the deathstone spike set within only enhancing his skeptical expression.

The air about Turinrond stops shimmering.

Noonee cocks her head at Laleena.

Laleena says, "Leya grew into womanhood among the Ardenai, and the heart of the tale begins turning a Festival of Games held by the elves."

Laleena coughs.

Laleena says, "Durin', rather."

You nod.

Laleena says, "She was in the midst of a rapier tournament, havin' won every contest up until this point, when a hare dashed 'cross her path and caused her to stumble."

Laleena grins wryly.

Missoni frets.

Laleena says, "She lost the match, and as an aside, that's also why the Amazons of Leya eat rabbit at their festivals."

Laleena folds her hands behind her back.

Turinrond smirks.

Zenaxa ponders.

Missoni adopts an agreeable expression.

Noonee begins chuckling at Laleena!

The brilliant aura fades away from Zenaxa.

Zenaxa appears less confident.

Laleena says, "But, her father had been there all the while watchin' her, and after the festival was complete, he made himself known to her."

You lean forward.

Laleena says, "The reunion was a joyous one, and the two decided to travel together."

Noonee smiles softly.

Noonee nods.

Laleena says, "They first visited the halflin's.  Leya was often found sharin' her gifts with the wee folk and they, in turn, taught her tricks with throwin' blades."

Laleena says, "Generally, it was a happy time."

You grin.

Laleena says, "I said generally."

Laleena says, "There was one small dark spot."

You frown.

Zenaxa tilts her head back.

Zenaxa coughs.

Laleena says, "While they were there, the halflin's handed over to Kai a weapon they had in their possession.  It's name was Soulingen."

Noonee bites her lip.

Missoni raises an eyebrow.

Charna folds her arms at the waist.

Turinrond shifts his weight.

Laleena says, "It is said that the blade was forged by Fash'lo'nae fer a separate band of halflin's.  And, it was specifically made to capture within it the souls of those it killed."

Missoni shudders.

You blink.

Zenaxa gasps.

Laleena cocks her head.

Laleena says, "But, one among this band lost his nerve and, with the sword, slew his companions before escapin'."

Laleena gazes heavenward.

Zenaxa frowns.

Laleena says, "That is how it came to be with the halflin's when Kai and Leya visited, and then how it fell into his hands."

Laleena says, "Unfortunately, this blight was to signal the end of their time with the halflin's."

Laleena says, "This was 'round the time of Despana's ascendance, and Kai felt he was needed elsewhere."

You say, "Understandable."

You nod to Laleena.

Zenaxa shudders.

Laleena nods.

Laleena says, "Quite."

Turinrond leans back.

Laleena says, "He could not leave though, before he had satisfied himself of his child's safety.  He constructed fer her a magical forest and left her there with but one companion...and owl that Kai transformed into a steed named Rigaetha."

Laleena indicates an ivory statue as a possible option.

You smile at Laleena.

Noonee gazes with interest at an ivory statue.

Missoni smiles.

Laleena says, "All went well durin' this time as Leya continued with her trainin', until the day that a wounded Vaalorian elf found his way into her glade."

Laleena says, "Leya's days from then were spent nursin' the fellow back to health and, in the meantime, somethin' happened, as they tend to."

Laleena says, "The pair fell in love."

Laleena smiles slightly.

You smile quietly to yourself.

Missoni wiggles her nose.

Noonee leans forward and rests her chin in her hand, a thoughtful expression on her face.

Laleena says, "His elf's name was Egan, and he remained there with Leya fer as long as he could."

Laleena says, "But, he had responsibilities.  The Undead Wars waged outside of that small glade, and he felt his place was with his family in the fight."

Noonee rubs her chin thoughtfully.

(Laleena takes a small breath, gesturing, almost helplessly.)

Laleena says, "And so he left her there, with the promise to return at a date upon which they decided."

Laleena says, "However, that day...it came and went with no word from Egan."

You shake your head.

Zenaxa frets.

Entress frowns.

Missoni wrings her hands.

Laleena says, "And Leya, rather disgraught over the matter, left in order to seek him out."

Noonee bites her lip.

Laleena says, "Perhaps it's prudent to mention, since I neglected to before, that Kai, before he left, gave Soulingen to Leya at her request.  So she could continue her trainin'."

You nod to Laleena.

Laleena says, "So, Leya AND Soulingen went into the fray."

Laleena says, "Which proved to bring to light the darkness her mother had foretold."

Zenaxa turns an inquisitive ear towards Laleena.

Missoni frowns.

Laleena says, "When Leya arrived on the field of battle, it was as battles often are --  hard, bloody, and full of chaos."

You nod.

Zenaxa sighs.

Entress leans forward.

Laleena says, "She had lil' hesitation in drawin' Soulingen and settin' upon the enemy forces.  As she did though, she was taken by her bloodlust."

Laleena cocks her head.

Zenaxa furrows her brow.

Noonee sighs sadly.

Missoni bites her lip.

Laleena says, "Unknown to her, Luukos had also taken his place on the field.  And, saw Leya in action, and took advantage of her...fury."

You exclaim, "Eeesh!"

Laleena says, "He made Egan appear to her as one of the enemy and she, in her rage, slew him."

You fret.

Laleena nods to you.

Zenaxa's face turns slightly pale.

Laleena says, "Indeed."

Missoni laces her fingers together with barely hidden anger.  The pressure she applies to her fingers causes them to turn white.

Noonee's face turns slightly pale.

Laleena says, "Once he died, the illusion fell away, and Leya realized what she'd done."

Laleena ponders.

Zenaxa grunts sadly, a small tear forming in the corner of her eye.

Entress slowly empties her lungs.

Zenaxa sniffs.

Laleena says, "Her cry of grief was so profound, that it broke the magic that held Rigaetha, and he turned back into the owl he'd once been."

Missoni squirms.

Zenaxa glances about with concern on her face.

Noonee hangs her head.

Laleena says, "She took the body of her lover and returned to the glade her father had fashioned fer her, and constructed fer him a tomb."

Laleena says, "This tomb would be the shrine that stands now in the wilds jest outside of the Landin'."

Zenaxa ponders.

Noonee nods.

Laleena says, "Once it was completed, she threw down Soulingen, and left with nothin' but a dagger."

Laleena says, "That is the slightly abridged edition of her story...well, the first part of it."

Laleena smiles.

You smile at Laleena.

Missoni nods.

Laleena says, "Earlier in the year, Morrin, a storyteller came to the shrine and shared with us a tale of what happened to Leya after this time."

Laleena says, "It was this tale I wanted to share with ye."

Noonee exclaims, "Oh!"

Noonee leans forward.

Charna removes a simple faenor dagger from in her raven suede bodice.

Laleena smiles at Charna.

Zenaxa says, "Sure te have more meanin fer me now."

Laleena reaches inside a close-fitting dark leather doublet.

Zenaxa nods.

Laleena nods to Zenaxa.

 (Charna casually flips the dagger once.)

Charna put a simple faenor dagger in her raven suede bodice.

Laleena says, "Well, Soulingen...it lies in the tomb she created fer Egan.  His soul still resides in the blade."

You shiver.

Wulfhen suddenly fades into view.

Laleena says, "It is quite grand, this tomb, with four niches bearin' statuary of Egan, Kai, and herself.  But, there was also an altar.  And, it was upon that altar that she threw down the accursed sword, vowin' never again to take it up."

(Laleena rests her forearm on the pommel of her own sword, fingers idly toying with the guard as she speaks.)

Laleena says, "It seems that those words, so strong were they in grief and torment, that they acted as an incantation, bindin' the sword to the altar.  It lies there still, to this day, abandoned and askew."

Charna bites her lip.

Zenaxa gasps.

Zenaxa blinks.

Laleena says, "As it happened, Kai had arrived jest as Leya killed Egan.  He had so wanted to comfort her, but she was beyond any consolation, and would be fer some time.  So, Kai withdrew, leavin' Leya to work through her burden in her own time, in her own way."

Charna shifts her weight.

Wulfhen gets a blank look on his face.

Laleena says, "It was then that Leya took up the dagger-sized weapon the halflin's had gifted her with and set her foot to the path, leavin' everythin' she loved behind."  She pauses, lifting the arm from its rest against her sword to tuck her braid behind her ear.  "The grief she carried...it was her only companion fer many moons."

Noonee nods.

Charna sniffs.

Laleena says, "Her travels took her to the forests of her mother's people, the Ta'Ardenai, though she kept to herself even there.  Meditation and practice of her sword play filled her days.  Regardless of her grief, she WAS still her father's daughter, and such skills are not to be let fall to the wayside."

(Laleena moves with an easy turn, shifting her arm from her sword to clasp her hands behind her back as she slowly paces the front of the crowd.)

Laleena says, "Though her ability grew, her heart remained heavy and her soul slow to mend.  It is said that she lost herself in those days.  Lost her sense of self."

Laeyandra just arrived.

Laeyandra sits down.

Laleena smiles a small, odd smile and shakes her head as she turns an earnest gaze to those gathered and speaks, "It's not such a hard thing to imagine, is it?"

Zenaxa sighs sadly.

Noonee leans forward.

Laleena chuckles to herself.

Laleena says, "But, left without this security of self she'd once had, Leya began to revisit those places in which she had been the happiest.  Though, she always kept in the shadow.  As much as she desired to find somethin' to relieve her grief, she was loathe to do more than pass through these places, as a shade through a cemetery."

Zenaxa agrees with Laleena.

Charna trembles as if a cold chill just ran up her spine.

You sigh.

Laleena says, "It was, perhaps, by coincidence or by virtue of the gift of prescience she shared with her mother, that she came upon a woman in distress between Ta'Ardenai and Ta'Loenthra one day.  The woman, the wife of a sculptor, had slain her abusive husband with a shard of chalcedony."

You shudder.

Laleena nods to you.

Laleena asks, "Sorta gruesome, no?"

Missoni raises an eyebrow.

You nod to Laleena.

Thaleles nods.

Laleena says, "Despite that he had been a vile man, the woman was regretful of her actions, mournful even, to have killed one she loved.  Bein' so, she decided to turn herself over to the guard, but fear of disbelief festered within her, and she fled instead."

You say, "Aye."

Laeyandra furrows her brow.

Laleena says, "In this woman, Leya found a mirror of sorts...no stranger was she to this manner of grief and loss.  So, it was Leya that suggested that the woman travel with her a while, regain her fortitude before turnin' herself into the authorities.  The woman agreed, and the two became friends."

Laleena cocks her head.

Zenaxa leans forward and rests her chin in her hand, a thoughtful expression on her face.

Laleena says, "Durin' their time together, Leya gave to this woman trainin' in the martial arts, as well as survival skills.  She also taught the woman the art of craftin' blades from various materials.  Leya and the woman together transformed the piece of chalcedony into a crude dagger with the pledge that it would never be used unjustly."

Laleena deftly removes the faenor dagger from her belt.

Laleena indicates her faenor dagger with a smile.

Laleena says, "A dagger much like this one."

You say, "Ah."

Laleena nods.

Laleena points her faenor dagger at Charna.

Laleena says, "And that which she bears."

(Noonee looks a bit more closely at the dagger Laleena holds.)

Charna removes a simple faenor dagger from in her raven suede bodice.

Laleena shows Noonee her faenor dagger.

Noonee smiles at Laleena.

Noonee nods to Laleena.

Laleena carefully hangs her dagger from her belt.  It rattles against the longsword hanging from it, and she carefully adjusts them.

Missoni adopts an agreeable expression.

Laleena says, "The woman in return gave Leya a companion, another with which to share her grief.  I believe that it is likely that as Leya helped this woman conqueror her sadness, she in part diminished her own."  Another smile finds Laleena's lips, quiet and genuine.  "It was a year and a day after the murder that both Leya and the woman returned and gave herself over to the guard."

Laleena says, "By then, tales of her husband's true nature had surfaced, and his passin' was not an event many mourned.  The charges, with such evidence as provided by the other townsfolk, were dismissed by the guard as justified."

Charna put a simple faenor dagger in her raven suede bodice.

Noonee bites her lip.

Laleena says, "In the celebration of her friend's victory, she was reminded of the past, a victory spoiled by a hare, and a joyous reunion with her father.  Though she missed her father, she realized that she was not yet ready to tackle that part of her journey."

You nod.

Laleena folds her hands behind her back.

Laleena says, "Free of guilt, Leya and her friend left to continue their travels and, on the way, came upon a rag-clothed girl bein' harshly treated by the inn keeper as the girl attempted to go about her duties.  The pair took it upon themselves to rescue the girl from her circumstances, and the trio continued far out of town."

Zenaxa adopts an agreeable expression.

Missoni smiles.

Laeyandra turns an inquisitive ear towards Laleena.

Laleena quietly says, "They did this sorta thing a lot."

Laleena nods.

Laleena clears her throat.

Laleena says, "The way of things repeated themselves, as they often do...ever a continuous cycle life is.  Leya and the older woman became mentors to the girl, teachin' her all they'd been taught, and sharin' mutually in their pained pasts.  As the girl grew in confidence and skill, so lessened Leya's burden of grief."

Zenaxa smiles.

Laleena says, "Leya continued in this way -- gatherin' wounded and frightened women to herself along her travels and, through companionship and mentorin', helpin' them find their way again...helpin' them find themselves...and herself, at the same time."

Laeyandra looks thoughtfully at Laleena.

Charna looks lost in thought.

(Laleena smiles again as a strange expression settles on her features.)

Laleena says, "Before long, word of the group spread, and women began to seek them out.  Each was welcomed.  In time, this group of women, from various races and backgrounds, each with her own story...they became known as the Amazons."

Noonee smiles.

Missoni nods.

Zenaxa raises her fist defiantly.

Laeyandra ponders.

Laleena smiles at Zenaxa.

Laleena says, "Leya realized that on the path that had led her to this point, her heart had healed:  been healed in part by each of these women.  In return, she had given them all her knowledge and guidance...and, it was now time to leave them and begin the next leg of her journey."

Laleena says, "Though they mourned her leavin', the sisterhood understood why she had to go."

Laleena takes a deep breath.

Laleena says, "At this point in the story, a gust of wind took Morrin's bookmark from her journal, and it fell near the statue in the niche where we sat -- the niche that honors Mercy."

You rub your chin thoughtfully.

Laleena says, "She noticed then that there was somethin'...amiss with the statue...and before we knew it, she'd found a latch that opened a stairway down into the depths of the shrine.  Egan's tomb lay within as well as a passage scribed on the wall.  It is from that inscription, that seemed to me to be of Leya's own hand, that I will finish this tale."

Laeyandra furrows her brow.

Zenaxa gasps.

Missoni leans forward.

Laleena nods to Zenaxa.

Entress blinks.

Noonee leans forward.

(Laleena begins to pace slowly again, eyes ever on the crowd before her.)

Laleena says, "Once she left the Amazons, she retreated to a circle of modwir pines and called to her father.  Havin' waited so long fer his daughter to come to terms with her grief, he was overjoyed to hear her.  He went to her without hesitation."

Laleena says, "They stood before each other, silent until Leya asked if he could fergive a wayward daughter that had so long been absent from him.  With open arms, they embraced each other, and Leya gave unto her father all her tears of sorrow, of joy, and all the tales of what had passed since they last saw each other."

Laeyandra smiles at Laleena.

(Laleena's steps still and she turns to fully face those gathered once more.)

Laleena says, "It was then, in the early light of dawn, that she realized her responsibility as a child born of mortal and Arkati, and took her place alongside her father."

Zenaxa nods.

Laleena says, "And that, as they say, is that.  There have been questions of Leya's continued existence and, while any Leyan will likely tell you that to follow her is to know she exists, this perhaps lays to rest some of the curiosities from a less...biased perspective."

(Laleena spreads her hands wide as if in explanation.)

Laleena smiles.

Zenaxa smiles at Laleena.

Laleena says, "I wanted to share this story, not only because I think it offers insight into the *humanity* of Leya, which is an aspect I think is often lost, but also because it opens up an opportunity to talk about the importance of the shrine...since that's where so much of the story took place, has roots in, and concluded."

You smile at Laleena.

Laleena says, "The shrine itself is broken up into four niches, each at a cardinal point -- North, South, East, and West.  Respectively, those niches are named -- Strength, Mercy, Day, and Night."

Laleena asks, "How many of ye have been to the shrine?"

Noonee leans forward and rests her chin in her hand, a thoughtful expression on her face.

(Charna quietly slips through the crowd until she is standing next to Wulfhen.)

Entress raises her hand.

Zenaxa blushes a glowing shade of red.

Charna leans on Wulfhen, giving him a companionable grin.

Noonee raises her hand.

Laeyandra shakes her head.

Laleena grins.

Thaleles says, "I have."

Wulfhen's entire body tenses as he tightens his grip on his rolaren wolf heaume.

Zenaxa says, "I should like to go."

Laleena exclaims, "SO many!"

Missoni says, "I have, and it makes much more sense now."

Zenaxa nods.

Laeyandra asks, "In the Landing?"

Laleena grins.

Laeyandra peers quizzically at Laleena.

Laleena nods to Laeyandra.

Charna tilts her head down.

Laleena says, "Yes."

Laeyandra shakes her head.

Charna leans to her left slightly.

Laeyandra frowns.

You say, "I must admit I have not."

Your cheeks flush with a soft shade of apricot.

Laleena glances at you.

Entress says, "I've been to the Ta'Vaalor one as well."

Laeyandra says, "I never heard about it even."

Laleena says, "Oh, dear Lady, such a travesty."

Laleena nods to you.

Your cheeks flush with a soft shade of apricot.

Missoni appreciatively says, "It is really lovely."

Laleena says, "The altar, we've already talked about, so I'll move on to the North niche, Strength."

Laleena nods to Missoni.

Charna bites her lip.

(Laleena glances up, looking briefly between Wulfhen and Charna, before returning her gaze to the whole of the crowd.)

Aydan says, "I think I've been to the shrine... at least, I remember the trillium flowers around it."

Laleena says, "Bein' the daughter of Kai, obviously this relates to the condition of her weapon arm, but I think there is much more beyond that."

Laleena nods to Aydan.

Laleena says, "Indeed.  There are many there."

Laleena says, "Anyone can work, train, build muscle, and grow physically strong.  However, not all have an internal fortitude.  It comes along with a sense of self and assurance that allows ye to act in accordance with yer beliefs...even when they may not be the popular ones."

Laleena glances around the room.

Laleena says, "The South niche, Mercy, is interestin' to me because I think it's the most misconceived. ."

Laleena says, "When ye say Mercy, everyone assumes ye mean somethin' akin to compassion or pity.  And, while I do think compassion does play a part in it, I don't think that's all of it...or perhaps even the most of it."

Laeyandra cocks her head at Laleena.

Laleena says, "I believe that Mercy represents wisdom.  I believe that Leya understands that strength, without the wisdom to temper it, is next to useless in almost every situation."

Laleena deftly removes the black imflass longsword from her belt.

You say, "I would have to agree there."

You nod.

Missoni nods.

Laleena asks, "After all, who cain't lift a sword?"

Laleena tilts her black imflass longsword side to side, making the light play off it.

Missoni flushes slightly, some color reaching her cheeks.

Laleena says, "The difference comes in those that lift it, merely because they can, and those that do so with purpose...and consideration."

Charna shifts her weight.

Laleena carefully hangs her longsword from her belt.  It rattles against the dagger hanging from it, and she carefully adjusts them.

Laleena asks, "I'm not sure that she realized this before she drew Soulingen that day on the battlefield.  How different would things have been if she'd elected to draw another sword, because she knew what Soulingen could do?"

Laeyandra looks thoughtfully at Laleena.

Laleena looks thoughtful for a moment, then shrugs.

Laeyandra furrows her brow.

Laleena says, "The East niche, Day.  Light.  THE Light.  I'm sure is what comes to mind.  But, oh, can I jest say how tired I've grown of that phrase?  THE Light."  She shakes her head, tossing one hand flippantly into the air as she utters the phrase.  "However, fer this night, let's not fall into that mindset."

Laleena leans back.

Noonee ponders.

You chuckle at Laleena.

Laleena winks at you.

Laleena says, "Yes.  Day represents light, in so far as light denotes ideals such as hope and renewal.  It may even contain within it the notion of virtue, in such a way as Leya would define the word.  I believe though, that its bigger part comes to play when combined with the aspect named in the West niche -- Night."

Perigourd smiles at Missoni.

Laleena says, "Like Day, I believe that Night in the basest of ways represents darkness, the side of ourselves that we do not show, perhaps that we are not even proud of.  It can stand fer adversity and despair.  But, when combined with Day, what I see is Leya's understandin' of duality and balance."

Laleena says, "There could be no dawn without the Night, not eve without the Day.  They must both exist; they both have their place.  In much the same way, I think that Leya knows that we, as individuals, are no different.  We both possess this dual nature."

Laleena says, "Each of us."

Laleena folds her arms over her chest.

Laleena says, "Even she did.  She went to Egan's side with every good intention.  She drew Soulingen with no thought but to give aid.  But, once it WAS drawn...it was the bloodlust that took over.  Had that aspect of her personality not been there, it would not have been able to rise."

Zenaxa sighs balance.

Laeyandra looks thoughtfully at Laleena.

Laeyandra furrows her brow.

Laleena says, "So.  Even she was not immune.  I like to think that she expects no more of us than to recognize that we have this dark and this light within ourselves, and that we act as we can to keep them both in check.  Never to let the one rule the other."

You nod to Laleena.

Laleena chuckles.

Laleena says, "Now, I won't claim my view of this is conventional, by any means, but it is what it is:  the perception I've gathered through experience, both my own and those of her other followers."

Noonee nods to Laleena.

Laleena nods.

Missoni smiles.

Laleena says, "And, now that I've whittled away the balance of my time...I reckon we can see if anyone has questions."

You chuckle at Laleena.

Laleena folds her hands behind her back.

Zenaxa asks, "Yer story of th undead war reminds me to think of th tombs I see in th Bog in Vaaalor.  Was it there that Egan was killt?"

Laleena ponders.

Zenaxa asks, "Is th shrine in vaalor related?"

Zenaxa coughs.

Laleena says, "To be honest, I've heard no tales of exactly where he was slain.  But, I'm fairly certain that that tomb was not fer him."

Suddenly you have the strangest feeling that you are being watched.
The feeling fades as quickly as it came.

Zenaxa says, "Nae.. not th tomb that is sealed..."

Zenaxa adopts an agreeable expression.

A cloud of dense silvery fog suddenly appears.  The fog quickly dissipates to reveal Ceyrin.

Ceyrin waves.

Ceyrin coughs.

Laleena asks, "Jest the bog?"

You smile at Ceyrin.

Zenaxa says, "There are tombstone, barely legible."

Laleena nods.

Zenaxa says, "But they speal of love."

Turinrond stands up.

(Iscikella motions for Ceyrin to take a seat.)

Zenaxa says, "Speak."

Turinrond walks towards Ceyrin.

Zenaxa coughs.

Turinrond sits down near Ceyrin.

Zenaxa says, "And warning."

Ceyrin nods to Turinrond.

Ceyrin sits down near Turinrond.

Laleena ponders.

Ceyrin steeples his fingers in his lap, quietly observing his surroundings.

Zenaxa says, "And Kai's influence in Vaalor i s strong."

Missoni furrows her brow.

Laleena says, "I'd hafta go take a good look at 'em to make any sort of judgment on the possibility, really."

Zenaxa nods.

Zenaxa rubs her chin thoughtfully.

Laleena glances around the room.

Aydan says, "I think that bog is a good bit further north than the undead ever made it during the war."

Zenaxa asks, "Have you read th pillar an th tombs?"

Laleena says, "Possibly."

Laleena nods.

Zenaxa cocks her head at Aydan.

Wulfhen quietly says, "Despana's horde swept it's way up to Ta'Vaalor."

Aydan says, "Though they won at Shadowguard, I think that was the limit to their northward push."

Zenaxa adopts an agreeable expression.

Wulfhen says, "She wasn't stopped at ShadowGuard."

Zenaxa says, "Despana is highly thought oif havin been there."

Laleena says, "I doubt tales of tragic love are anythin' rare in times of war."

Laleena smiles wryly.

Aydan says, "No, but her forces didn't go much further."

Zenaxa agrees with Laleena.

You say, "Definitely truth to that."

Laleena nods.

You nod to Laleena.

Laleena leans against an ivory statue.

Aydan says, "And Shadowguard is south of Ta'Vaalor, and that particular bog is north of it."

Wulfhen says, "Her hordes continued, until the Elven armies rallied."

Wulfhen shrugs.

Wulfhen says, "Everyone thought the flower of the Vaalorians would stop them."

Zenaxa says, "I'd reccomend studyin th graves vefore ye dicount it entirely."

Zenaxa nods to Aydan.

Wulfhen says, "Who is to say just how close to the city Despana's troops arrived."

Wulfhen glances at Charna.

Laleena asks, "Are there any other questions, or shall we take in the remainder of the history lesson?"

Laleena grins.

Aydan says, "I'm not discounting it. I never said I was."

Charna shifts her weight.

Noonee says, "I have a question."

Noonee smiles at Laleena.

Laleena turns to face Noonee.

Laleena asks, "Yes?"

Missoni says, "Me, too."

Zenaxa ponders.

Noonee says, "I was always curious if Egan's soul was the only one currently in Soulingen."

Laleena says, "I should say not."

Ceyrin scratches his head.

Laleena says, "It was used to slay that wayward band of halflin'."

Noonee nods to Laleena.

Laleena ponders.

Noonee asks, "So the souls stay forever, aye?"

Laleena says, "Though, I don't think they were able to use it on anyone before it was taken."

Laleena nods to Noonee.

Noonee nods.

Laleena says, "That is my understandin'."

Laleena cocks her head at Missoni.

Speaking thoughtfully to Laleena, Missoni asks, "Leya's mother, Miss Learya, is much known of her besides what we have heard?"

Laleena ponders.

Laleena says, "I know also that she was the only child of a noble family."

Missoni nods.

Laleena smiles faintly at Ceyrin.

Laleena asks, "Any other questions?"

Laleena cocks her head.

Laleena glances around the room.

Noonee says, "Not at the moment from me."

Noonee shakes her head.

Noonee smiles.

Laleena nods.

Ceyrin says, "Why did Laya feel the need to slay her lover in order to gain Kai's favor? Perhaps you covered that when I was not here if so I am sorry for making you repeat yourself."

Laleena raises an eyebrow in Ceyrin's direction.

Noonee blinks at Ceyrin.

Thaleles blinks.

Laleena says, "She didn't lay her lover purposefully."

Laleena coughs.

Laleena says, "Slay..."

Laeyandra ponders.

Laleena says, "Luukos was on the battlefield, same as she, and made Egan appear to her as one of the enemy."

Laleena says, "Blinded by that, along with her bloodlust, she slew him."

Missoni shakes her head, totally at a loss.

Zenaxa asks, "I'd think such a sword would be very desireable te th Dark ones.. is th only force holdin it that of Leya?  If she is indeed still alive.. would th force holdin it die with her?"

Missoni regretfully says, "Ever so tragic."

Ceyrin says, "I see."

Laleena looks thoughtfully at Zenaxa.

Speaking to Laleena, Ceyrin says, "Thank you for your sumatious answer."

Laleena says, "Good question."

Zenaxa blushes a glowing shade of red.

Aydan whispers, "All we need, another sword that Lornon is fighting to take."

Laleena says, "I've told many people, when they asked if I thought Leya was dead, that I was sure she wasn't fer personal reasons primarily, but also because I thought that if she WAS dead, the sword would no longer be bound."

Laleena nods to Zenaxa.

Laleena says, "Whether or not that is actually the case, I do not know."

Zenaxa nods to Laleena.

Zenaxa says, "I'd tend te agree with ye."

Missoni adopts an agreeable expression.

Zenaxa says, "That her lifeforce golds it."

Zenaxa says, "Holds."

Zenaxa coughs.

Laleena nods.

Laleena asks, "Anythin' else?"

Noonee shakes her head.

Entress says, "When I visited Leya's shrine in Ta'Vaalor, I was able to offer her a gift at the alter, and as such when I prayed had a few visions, mostly of the Landing temple."

Entress asks, "Is there a way to offer her a gift at the Landing temple?"

Laleena nods to Entress.

Laleena says, "Ye can offer a gift anywhere."

Entress nods.

Zenaxa asks, "What is the preferred offerin te her?"

Laleena raises an eyebrow.

Laleena grins.

Laleena says, "I've never asked her."

Zenaxa smiles.

You chuckle at Laleena.

Laleena says, "But, I can tell ye what I've found to be most often the case."

Zenaxa says, "Maybe i should say... th moss common."

Zenaxa turns an inquisitive ear towards Laleena.

Laleena says, "Many of the Amazons will give hides, or weapons collected from their kills."

Laleena ponders.

Zenaxa nods.

Laleena removes a delicate trillium flower from in her dark leather doublet.

Laleena says, "I give flowers, most often."

Laleena indicates a delicate trillium flower as a possible option.

Laleena says, "Some pay tribute by goin' on ritual hunts."

Laleena says, "One weapon, no armor, and yer own strength."

Laeyandra furrows her brow.

Zenaxa gasps.

Laleena ponders.

Zenaxa says, "I dunno if she'd appreciate rat skins."

Zenaxa babbles something unintelligible.

Laleena begins chuckling at Zenaxa!

(Charna slowly drops her hand to her side.)

Laleena says, "If ye've felt ye've made some triumph by gainin' 'em, I don't see why not."

Zenaxa says, "Me killin anythin by blade would be somthin."

Zenaxa smiles.

Laleena leans back.

Laleena grins at Zenaxa.

Zenaxa places her arms akimbo and looks about as if waiting for something.

You smile.

Turinrond stands up.

Zenaxa coughs.

Laleena says, "Then I am sure she would appreciate anythin' ye offer."

Ceyrin cocks his head at Turinrond.

You say, "I want to thank Laleena for her fine lecture this eve."

Laleena nods to you.

Laleena smiles.

Ceyrin nods to Turinrond.

Speaking to Laleena, Missoni says, "Thanks ever so much Miss Laleena."

Laeyandra smiles at Laleena.

Thaleles stands up.

You say, "And for those who have not yet received a festival charm, please stay and accept one as a token."

Laleena says, "My pleasure."

Laleena bows.

Thaleles says, "Thank you for the discussion."

Speaking to Laleena, Laeyandra says, "Thank ye M'lady."

You say, "And  then I will lead folks back to the Meeting Hall."