```*++*```  Headline News  ```*++*```

```*+*``` Victory in Kildare ```*+*```

News came back from Kildare this past month, that the battalion sent adding to Kildare's growing army had been a success in facing down a hired army to march against them from the dukedom of Montrose. Airtre Madison and his mercenary army had been hired by the brother of Ronan Callihan, not by his orders. Ultan Callihan had taken over the Keep, imprisoning his brother under a cursed pendant. It was found he had ambitions to not only take over the Dukedom but the seat of Kildare itself. At the crux when it was sure there would be no such victory, he fled with his son and mage. They are still at large.

General Madison sought the right of an old Celtic warrior tradition, pitting two of his men against two of King Leoric's army. Sir Aiden Collins and his squire, Rhett Shawnesey happened to be the ones chosen. They had the advice of Mikhail Andree on such warfare traditions of the more barbaric army and so were on the lookout for such trickery. True to his advice the squire of the other attempted to step from his battle with Rhett to kill Sir Aiden as his opponent sacrificed a vulnerable move that he could. Rhett intercepted the move, near taking his life, without hesitation, and so Sir Aiden was able to kill his opponent and could have the younger one but showed Mercy in not killing him. Something that is not adhered to by most others. It has been determined that Rhett will be knighted for the valor he showed that day, willing to sacrifice his life in battle that there would be a Victory. This ceremony will be held in Kildare, once the young man is recuperated from his wounds. He will be the youngest knighted in all the lands. An example for all other squires and those aspiring to become knights, that it is more than skill or age that determines the qualities of honor, valor and skill to become one of the esteemed. General Madison, in seeing such loyalty and compassion in seasoned well trained warriors, went to his knees, embedding his sword into the ground, offering the King and Regent his loyalty as well his army at their service if so accepted. It was under advisement by Mikhail this would be a good move on Kildare's part and so was accepted.

James Callihan and most of his siblings, along with their friend Captain Alaina MacKenna, invaded the Keep of Montrose while the armies faced off each other. A tactical war plan offered by the aspiring Rick McAndrews of Ballicastle. One to sneak in the back door while the cat is missing from its lair. With fewer men to face fewer guards as most were sent with the army, they were successful after a bloody battle in the Keep itself with the regiment left behind to guard it. Their father rescued and the Keep secured. The true seat of Montrose restored and their fidelity once more given to the new King and Regent. -submitted by Trevor Cairns

```*+*``` Allied and Friends Events ```*+*```

Laure Anor: In celebration of the impending birth of her son, Dane Aska de Galis, a baby shower was held to honor the Duchess Gracie de Galis on Saturday, February 9. The invitation, held open to the members of the Quest Coin Coalition, welcomed the attendees to the Sun and Shadow Tavern in the Laure Anor Provinces, hosted by the Lady Debra Sunhaven-Hayll and her daughter, Lady Hope Sunhaven.

The shower, created with a jungle and lion theme to reflect the Duchess's choice of decor for her son's nursery, drew some very creative gifts from the attendees, who gifted the soon-to-be-born babe with everything from crib linens to stuffed jungle animals. Amongst the gifts given was a pony and cart by Queen Honeee and Princess Noirin, who attended with Lady Michaela de Benoit to represent Heathfield. Others attending included Queen Julia Noir of Telarus, accompanied by Lady Sophia Ris, Lady Marie Norese, Lady Nienna Galathil, Lady Moonbreeze Silvereagle and Lady Alexandra Skye, all of Telarus, as well as the notable ladies of Devonshires, Queen Victoria Montalban, Lady Seleste Darkfire and Lady Constance Davreynia. Other QCC members who were present were Lord Samael Rhenvana, a close friend of the Duchess, as well as Lady Sabine Avie and Madje Askavinge, the Duchess's brother.

The ladies and gentlemen who passed the evening at the shower were treated to ice cream sundaes, as well as other treats provided by Lady Sabine's creative hand. Drinks flowed as freely as conversation, while the Duchess opened her gifts. Favors were provided in honor of the evening, including a lovely etched glass lion cub and sweets created by Lady Sabine; everyone in attendance enjoyed the evening and the company to welcome Dane into the world. --submitted by Delia Sandrine

Ravenwood Market-Auction: The last night of February saw the festivities at Ravenwood. Exotic dancers lured visitors in to partake in their ritual of a cleansing dance. Many gathered from various allied castles and lands staying for the auction of donated items. Coins were not the only bids given as promises of tattoos, hens and even a red rooster were thrown in. Puppies, desks, jewelry, furniture and even a wedding gown were offered up. Two queens went in a bidding competition over a canopy love couch. All in all everyone had a number of laughs and a good time for all well spent. Sean MacGrath submitted the canopy couch, Sean deBurgh submitted a case of potcheen. Those attending from Heathfield were Sir Aiden Collins, Sir Calhoun, Ladies: Cara, Morgan and Aislinn. --submitted by Calhoun Quinlan

```*+*```+```*+*```   Featured Articles ```*+*```+```*+*```

Healer's Touch
by Samantha Golden

Boneset - Let's clear up one matter right away: Boneset has nothing to do with mending broken bones. This herb helps treat minor viral and bacterial illnesses by possibly revving up the immune system's response to infection. Boneset's name comes from its traditional use as a treatment for 'breakbone fever', an old term for dengue (pronounced DENG-ee) fever. Dengue is a mosquito-borne, viral disease that causes muscle pains so intense that people imagine their bones are breaking, hence its traditional name. Ironically, boneset has never been shown to provide significant relief from dengue fever. The Indians introduced boneset to early colonists as a sweat-inducer, an old treatment for fevers.

The Indians used boneset for all fever-producing illnesses: influenza, cholera, dengue, malaria, and typhoid, hence boneset's other names, feverwort and sweat plant. The Indians also used boneset to relieve arthritis and to treat colds, indigestion, constipation, and loss of appetite. It was considered the herbal aspirin until the herb aspirin replaced it.

Healing with Boneset:

Colds and Flu - Studies show this herb helps treat minor viral and bacterial infections by stimulating white blood cells to destroy disease-causing microorganisms more effectively. In Germany it is used to treat viral infections such as colds and flu.

Arthritis - One study shows boneset is mildly anti-inflammatory, leading some support to its traditional use in treating arthritis.

Intriguing Possibility - Recent studies conducted worldwide suggest the possible immune stimulants in boneset have anti-cancer effects, but more research is needed before boneset can be used to treat tumors.

Safety Factor - In large amounts, boneset may cause nausea, vomiting and violent diarrhea. It contains chemicals (pyrrolizidines) which in large amounts cause liver damage and tumors in laboratory animals. Its effect on human cancer, if any, is unclear because the plant also contains anti-cancer substances. Anyone with a  history of alcoholism, liver disease or cancer should not use this herb without consulting his physician. Do not eat fresh boneset, it contains a toxic chemical (tremerol) which causes nausea, vomiting, weakness, muscle tremors, increased respiration and at high doses, possibly even coma and death. Drying the herb eliminates the tremerol and the possibility of poisoning. Do not take boneset for more than two weeks at a time and do not exceed recommended amounts. --Taken from The Healing Herbs by Michael Castleman

Life Around Here

As March comes in with either the roar of a lion, or the gentleness of a spring lamb, Heathfield and her sister realms begin to look forward to the signs of spring. Though there is still much snow on the ground, and the toboggan run and lakes are still being used for winter sports, everyone is watching for the first snowdrop, crocus or daffodil as well as the swallows and robins.   Sap is running in the trees and there will be plenty of maple syrup this year.

While it's still a little too soon for the fields to be prepared, except in Innis, farmers and gardeners alike are making plans for their spring planting.   As usual, the farmers and ranchers are keeping an eye on their livestock, making sure those animals ready to give birth don't wander off during a late winter storm.   Folks are making preparations for the many celebrations in March, including Holy Week and Easter, Purim, Ostara, St. Patrick's Day and the first day of Spring.  With the end of the winter storms, there will be more ships in the harbor.   To end this article this month, here's an Irish blessing:

Wishing you a rainbow
For sunlight after showers—
Miles and miles of Irish smiles
For golden happy hours—
Shamrocks at your doorway
For luck and laughter too,
And a host of friends that never ends
Each day your whole life through!

  --submitted by Sarah McDonough

Births: None this month. Marriages: None this month. Engagements: Kyle Frasier to Esmeralda Gibson, Regent Gaidan McLarkin to Corina Turlough. Deaths: None this Month. Citizenship: Please welcome Morgan and Aislinn Murray soon to open The Clean Slate soap shop.

Banshees -- Like brownies, banshees are loyal to their households, but rather than help with chores, these eerie and gloomy beings wander the grounds of estates, keening and washing the grave-clothes of those about to die.

Although banshees are described bys some as beautiful and by others as hideous, all agree that there is something terrifying about the sight of one. There are even reports that a few unlucky people who have looked into the face of a banshee died of fright. The song of a banshee is similarly lovely and unsettling.

Some believe that preventing a banshee from mourning or refusing to listen to its song will delay death, but this seems unlikely as, in most cases, a banshee is not the cause of death but merely its herald.

Some draw the drapes and don't open their windows under any circumstances to keep death at bay of one sick in bed.

Many reports of ghosts can be explained by faerie activity except for the banshee coming before one dies. She hovers and floats about, wailing and weeping for the death about to come. There are many families that have known the Banshee to come preceding a family member's death.

 -- submitted by Kathleen Frasier - from Arthur Spiderwick's Field Guide. Everyone should have one!

March

"Gwyl Canol GwenWynol or Eostre: (pronounced E-ostra, also known as Ostara, Spring Equinox etc.), March 21-23. Time of equal day and equal night. This is often celebrated with eggs (beginnings) and rabbits (fertiity) ... see the theme? It is now time to lay the seeds of new projects and new directions that you have meditated on throughout the cold months. Now is the time to start taking action. (A lot of traditions use this particular sabbat for initiations. New roads, a new breath.) Colours for this sabbat: Purple and Yellow.

The Spring Equinox defines the season where Spring reaches it's apex, halfway through its journey from Candlemas to Beltane.   Night and day are in perfect balance, with the powers of light on the ascendancy.   The god of light now wins a victory over his twin, the god of darkness.  In the Welsh Mabinogion, this is the day on which the restored Llew takes his vengeance on Goronwy by piercing him with the sunlight spear.  For Llew was restored/reborn at the Winter Solstice and is now well/old enough to vanquish his rival/twin and mate with his lover/mother.  And the great Mother Goddess, who has returned to her Virgin aspect at Candlemas, welcomes the young sun god's embraces and conceives a child. The child will be born nine months from now, at the next Winter Solstice. And so the cycle closes at last to begin anew.

The customs surrounding the celebration of the spring equinox were imported from Mediterranean lands, although there can be no doubt that the first inhabitants of the British Isles observed it, as evidence from megalithic sites shows. But it was certainly more popular to the south, where people celebrated the holiday as New Year's Day, and claimed it as the first day of the first sign of the Zodiac, Aries. However you look at it, it is certainly a time of new beginnings, as a simple glance at Nature will prove." (http://www.egreenway.com/months/monmar.htm)

March 21 -- Ostara -- Spring or The Vernal Equinox. Also known as: Lady Day or Alban Eiler (Druidic)

As Spring reaches its midpoint, night and day stand in perfect balance, with light on the increase. The young Sun God now celebrates a hierogamy (sacred marriage) with the young Maiden Goddess, who conceives. In nine months, she will again become the Great Mother. It is a time of great fertility, new growth, and newborn animals. The next full moon (a time of increased births) is called the Ostara and is sacred to Eostre the Saxon Lunar Goddess of fertility (from whence we get the word estrogen, whose two symbols were the egg and the rabbit.

The Christian religion adopted these emblems for Easter which is celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox. The theme of the conception of the Goddess was adapted as the Feast of the Annunciation, occurring on the alternative fixed calendar date of March 25 Old Lady Day, the earlier date of the equinox. Lady Day may also refer to other goddesses (such as Venus and Aphrodite), many of whom have festivals celebrated at this time.

Traditional Foods: Leafy green vegetables, Dairy foods, Nuts such as Pumpkin, Sunflower and Pine. Flower Dishes and Sprouts. Incense: Jasmine, Rose, Strawberry, Floral of any type. Sacred Gemstone: Jasper. Special Activities: Planting seeds or starting a Magical Herb Garden. Taking a long walk in nature with no intent other than reflecting on the Magicks of nature and our Great Mother and her bounty. (wicca.com)  --submitted by Mary Colleen McAndrews

March
by Lucy Larcom

"March! March! March! They are coming
In troops to the tune of the wind.
Redheaded woodpeckers drumming,
Gold - crested thrushes behind;
Sparrows in brown jackets, hopping
Past every gateway and door;
Finches, with crimson caps, stopping
Just where they stopped before.
March! March! March! They are slipping
Into their places at last. . .
Literature white lily buds, dripping
Under the showers that fall fast;
Buttercups, violets, roses;
Snowdrop and bluebell and pink,
Throng upon throng of sweet posies
Bending the dewdrops to drink.
March! March! March! They will hurry
Forth at the wild bugle sound,
Blossoms and birds in a flurry,
Fluttering all over the ground.
Shake out your flags, birch and willow!
Shake out your red tassels, larch!
Grass blades, up from your earth - pillow.
Hear who is calling you. . . March."

--submitted by Angel O'Banain

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March
by William Morris

Slayer of the winter, art thou here again?
O welcome, thou that's bring'st the summer nigh!
The bitter wind makes not thy victory vain,
Nor will we mock thee for thy faint blue sky.
Welcome, O March! whose kindly days and dry
Make April ready for the throstle's song,
Thou first redresser of the winter's wrong!

Yea, welcome March! and though I die ere June,
Yet for the hope of life I give thee praise,
Striving to swell the burden of the tune
That even now I hear thy brown birds raise,
Unmindful of the past or coming days;
Who sing: 'Oh joy! a new year is begun:
What happiness to look upon the sun!'

Ah, what begetteth all this storm of bliss
But death himself, who crying solemnly,
E'en from the heart of sweet Forgetfulness,
Bids us 'Rejoice, lest pleasureless ye die,
Within a little time must ye go by.
Stretch forth your open hands, and while ye live
Take all the gifts that Death and Life may give.'

--submitted by Donia MacKenna

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Did You Know?

Special Stones

The Stone of Destiny - Beneath the medieval coronation chair in Westminster Abbey, there sits a slab of ancient sandstone in a specialized compartment. This ancient slab is called the Stone of Scone, the Coronation Stone, or more widely, the Stone of Destiny. Legend has it that this is the stone on which Jacob slept when he had his visionary dream of a multitude of angels ascending a ladder to the heavens above. History tells us, however, that the stone came from Ireland. It was the royal omphalos stone upon which many ancient Irish kings were once crowned. The mystical power of this stone was believed to be so great that in the 10th century it was moved to Scone in Scotland, where it was used in the inauguration of 34 Scottish kings. In 1296 the stone was brought to England by order of Edward I. Be removing the stone from Scotland, he hoped to break the power of the Scottish kings.

The Blue Stones - In ancient times certain blue stones established the link between king and country and were also used to mark out points in the landscape, such as crossroads. These stones were also thought to have been an essential part of the process of crowning a king. The union of the king, the ruler of the land, with his kingdom was often symbolized by a physical connection between the king and a stone. In some parts of Europe, certain special stones are also found in mosaics or set into walls and roads in ancient towns, marking out the very center of the city. Almost everywhere in Europe, stones have long been associated with kingship. The shaped stones were the most primitive representations of the earth goddess and therefore the land.

The Dutch Stones - Throughout the Netherlands blue stones mark the center of many cities. In the center of Schoonhoven, a deep blue stone is embedded in a 13th century stone bridge over one of the canals. The bridge and the canal beneath it lie on the east-west, north-south axis. The stone is the focus of a mosaic that acts as a landmark indicating the center of the town. The mosaic is made from cobblestones forming two concentric circles, each of which is subdivided by 16 spokes radiating from the central blue stone and laid out to a traditional unit of measure called the rijnlandse roed (rod). At another site, Nijmegen, a rectangular stone, replacing the original blue stone, marks the principal crossroads of the city. Funeral processions were conducted around this central spot.

The Sacred Leiden Stones - Each of the three blue stones found in Leiden is hexagonal and three feet in diameter. The oldest of these stones is set into the ground at the intersection of two roads. One of the roads is an ancient route that leads to a pre-Christian mound in the town associated with the Celtic god of light, Lugh, from whose name Leiden was derived. This ancient blue stone is set in the center of a circle of gray stones and marks the precise spot whre the four quarters of the medieval town met, as the case at Nijmegen. Like many other sacred stones, the blue stones of Leiden held a particular fascination for the local people. Dutch folklore tells that Leiden blue stones were considered magical and sacred as late as the 17th century. -- submitted by Samantha Golden (taken from Earth's Mysterious Places, Reader's Digest)

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