It was that time of year again when everyone started to celebrate their harvests whether it was a bountiful one from their fields or from their livestock, everyone felt the need and desire to celebrate. It seemed that a side effect of all the peace in the land the gods were giving back, apparently pleased. Some might argue that proper tribute hasn’t been given to Jonal but Varinia would argue that Jonal has had numerous bountiful years in the past that would make up for the peace. Surely even he would be pleased that people are having longer lives yet still keeping up in their crafts in case the needs arise. Vari had been invited to the small party that the palace was throwing before the festival, her closeness with Naevius earning her invites to many parties even if she didn’t always go to then she always appreciated the invitations. Today, however, she accepted. Vari knew that at least Reina would want to go and although one of her girls was growing so quickly she wasn’t always ready to let go of them so quickly. When Varinia arrived she noticed a few things: just how few people were gathered inside the private garden and a few different shrines that had been set up to give thanks. The first, and largest was a shrine to Essd who Varinia always felt was proper to give thanks to no matter the time of year. Pulling the small pack from her back she stopped at the shrines one by one. For Essd she left a small bundle of fresh herbs and flowers. She gave a small prayer for her family before she moved on. Next was one that always helped give them bountiful harvests: Drach. His shrine was a small pool of water with a fountain. A few fish swam inside causing Vari to smile. Of course Naevius would make sure all the shrines are the best they could be. Varinia took a small globe from her pack before opening it gently and releasing a small Menk she had purchased at the market and sprinkled a little bit of fish food in for the few swimming around. Nobody wanted to displease Drach, while he brought them rain, he could also bring storms that could wipe out their crops, their homes, and many other things. Next she stopped by a small shrine for On’os. In thanks for their fortunes she left a few gems and coins. After On’os was a large shrine to Lenoxe. She pulled out a small dish she had made at home and left it in thanks for their harvests being so bountiful allowing them to have more than they needed. And lastly, in the center of the circle of all the other shrines was a bonfire for Atun to thank him for the sun and overall, their home in the desert. She threw a few sticks into the fire to fuel it and gave one last prayer to all of the gods and goddesses. Varinia had always been rather religious and it became even more so when she had started working for the King when she took the job as Naevius’ handmaiden. It had been then that she had been introduced to many of the different ways those of noble status celebrated and prayed to the gods. Sometimes it was quite different from how the common people did: the offerings were often quite more elaborate and expensive. Yet other times, the prayers were one and the same. That thought caused Vari to smile. How far she had come in life from first baby sitting wherever she could to make some money to help out her mother after her father went missing. Anything she could do to help provide for her sisters. Then she was employed by the king to help care for his only daughter. She got to travel outside of Oba and on many different missions and trips. It had been the biggest change in her life, at least before meeting Reillan and having their two kids. Now she was a mother, a trusted confidant and friend of the princess, and had made a name for herself. Varinia was proud of all that and was one of the reasons she always made sure to give thanks to the gods. Her spirits were lifted and knowing Reina was here somewhere (probably running around with the Prince) and would be safe she decided to make her way home, her thoughts turning towards what the future may bring her and her family.

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