ASC-12-27-19

Elspeth Bhorùma inghean ùi Bhrian

I’m reminded of my first time at Gulf Wars. Well, really, it’s been my only time, so far. Nevertheless, it was memorable. It was there I met the incomparable and incorrigible Leo.

Leo was such a nice young man, and so very helpful. Always ready to tell a story, lend a hand, or just walk beside you to keep you company. It was enjoyable to sit under a pavilion and listen to him tell his many stories, and he was always ready to laugh, even at himself. The greatest memory of Gulf Wars happened late one evening, when his then-Highness, Vlad, happened upon our pavilion and began to talk with Leo. Some light banter was exchanged and then, as the fate of the gods would deem, someone suggested to Leo that he tell one of his stories to his Highness.

Leo replied with, "Well, my best story is how I accidentally joined the Spanish Bloods."

You can only imagine the look on his Highness' face, as he settle back against a pole and said, "Do tell."

Leo then proceeded to give a rousing rendition of his most hilarious story which left his Highness in tears. For the next hour and a half, Leo regaled the group with tales of his "accidentals" throughout his young life, and there wasn't a dry eye in the area. Laughter that was hearty, deep felt and strong rang through the night as Leo shared his light. Laughter at himself was easy, and it made the night happy and fun for all. After we had finished laughing ourselves to oblivion, his Highness asked Leo to accompany him on a round to the tents of Calontir. Leo gladly went along and told stories where ever they gathered.

I will never forget that night, nor the stories that Leo told.

He remains a friend, and someone I love to sit with and listen to any time I'm able. A strong young man with a giving and happy spirit.