Lyra Lightbourne

Lyra Lightbourne is the only child of Pavel Durskow, an important Belosian figure, and a wandering bard. She studied to become a fire mage under Dara, a Belosian instructor at Baileydowns Thaumaturgical Institute.

Family and Early Life

Lyra never knew her mother, who left shortly after her birth. She grew up in her father's household with her seven older half-brothers (all Durskow's children by his wife, Megwin). Lyra and her step-mother did not get along well. She was also not close to her father. The two adults to whom she was closest were her nanny, Dayria, and her tutor, Corwin. As she spent much of her time in the company of older brothers and the children of servants, Lyra grew up a bit of a tomboy. While her step-mother made some efforts to teach her "womanly" arts, Lyra did not really become interested in learning these skills until she left her father's house. Because she showed magical aptitude, Lyra's father decided to send her to Baileydowns Thaumaturgical Institute to complete her education.

Baileydowns

Lyra greatly enjoyed her time at Baileydowns, and was a member of House Elsanor. She became acquainted with other young people of note, including Antagur il-Anyatim and Fields Breton. During her time there, she kept a journal. Excerpts from Lyra's journal show her excitement at commencing her studies.