Full name Class Nationality First appearanceBy the Sword (novel) Lyla Stormcloud was a half Shin'a'in mercenary. She was described as middle-aged, golden-skinned, black-eyed and very tall. (By the Sword) She grew up southwest of the Dhorisha Plains. Her mother was a full Bard who married a Shin'a'in and was adopted into Clan Tale'sedrin. As a child Lyla's mother trained as an assassin, only becoming a Bard much later. She trained Lyla in the assassin's skills as well. Expecting an assassination attempt against Lordan or Dierna, Tarma sent for her to guard them.