A Temple dedicated to two goddesses: Melora, the Wild Mother; and Avandra, the Change Bringer.

The outer precinct reminds worshippers of the forces that resist change.

Stones and gravel on one side, represent dedication and a focused purpose. Though new patterns can be raked in the gravel, its essential form never changes. Fire cannot cross its barren surface, or remove its presence. And yet, no life will ever grow in this garden; it will bear no fruit or flower.

On the other side of the path is a reflecting pool; a small waterfall splashing down wet rocks. The water represents concealment and pessimism. Yes, life may thrive beneath the surface, but is it wholesome or pestilent? A pessimistic mind drowns dreams and quenches passion. To live submerged in pessimism is to deny your dreams breath.

Inside the temple, the three levels celebrate the blessings of fire: Warmth, Change, and Tempering/Renewal.

Warmth: This blessing sustains life in the bitter cold of winter. Equipped with this portable, renewable heat, the people thrive and expand their territory, unhindered by snow or ice.

Change. Fire allows the people to change wheat into bread, ore into metal, sand into glass. From something lowly, a thing of beauty may be created, but it must be changed. Sometimes the change is painful, as weaknesses are burned away. But a skillful hand is able to shape what remains into a wonder.

Renewal/Tempering*. In the funeral pyre, the phoenix finds rebirth. The forest fire burns away unproductive deadwood, creates new meadows and releases the seeds of the great trees. A true blade must endure the forgefire again and again as the weaponsmith folds and tempers the steel. Even when it seems most destructive, fire can be a blessing.

Of course with elves, there are always layers of meaning. The temple might also be an appeasement to the fire spirits: "Yes, we value you. Accept our offerings and do not vent your anger on us." On the other hand, it might be a threat: "We know your weaknesses, how to fight you. Leave us in peace.







*This is a concept that is a bit difficult to translate into common