Morning slowly gave way to late morning as the discussion inside the Hall of Memories finally came to an end. The atmosphere had grown considerably lighter.
What had begun as a solemn exchange of ancient history gradually shifted into something much warmer. The elders no longer regarded Lilith and Atheline merely as unexpected visitors from another age. Instead, they spoke as though welcoming distant relatives whose family had simply taken an impossibly long journey home.
Lyria smiled as one of the younger attendants quietly refilled everyone's tea.
"I believe we've spent half the day sitting."
One of the elders laughed.
"An old habit... When scholars begin discussing history, they tend to forget time exists."
Even Atheline found himself smiling. He glanced through the open windows; the sun had climbed well above the eastern trees.
"We certainly have."
Lilith stood from her chair.
"As fascinating as all of this has been... there's still one thing we'd like to ask."
