[2020] A loss in the Dry Top & GW2 community

Hey folks,

I've been asked by the leadership of [DTOP] to post this here on Reddit. I've been trying to write this post for a couple of days now, but never found the strength to get any words down. I'm so, so sorry that I'm writing this. It comes with a heavy heart.

Several nights ago, we found out that Melora, co-leader of [DTOP], died suddenly of a pulmonary embolism on the 15th. She was known in-game as Elyrian Ashmore, Neryn Moreau, and Bellatropa, and Amber Lutz in real life. She co-led [DTOP] for years alongside Splinka. She was a huge part of the soul of Dry Top, and she was the heart of [DTOP]. Her steady presence and wealth of knowledge commanded literally hundreds of successful events in Dry Top, Heart of Thorns, and Path of Fire. Mel also shared her love of the game through making dozens of edits on the GW2 Wiki the last few months, and she learned how to do things on the pages that I have yet to try out in 2 years.

We wanted to invite everyone to her in-game memorial service. It will be this Sunday, March 3rd, starting at 2PM ET (19:00 UTC). Mel touched a lot of lives, and we hope that we can share in the memories and beauty she left us on Sunday, together. For my part, Mel was a friend and fellow guild leader, and she always had insight that I treasured. She excelled at leading. She was graceful and kind as a guild leader, but never let anyone knock her down a peg or fluster her. I admired that a lot. I admired her strong presence and kindness.

Here is another post written by Splinka from a few days ago about Mel. For those who may not use Twitter or who may not like its format, here is the home page to the Tumblr with the same information about Mel's memorial service and events.

Thanks everyone.

~ Moon