The Marches hearth magic - Revision history

Twiggy at 14:15, 8 September 2025

2025-09-08T14:15:09Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:15, 8 September 2025
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	The same hearth magic is used in the traditional practice of keeping a sheaf of corn near the hearth, where it serves to capture the vigour of the fields and bring them into their home. Farms that don't grow corn or similar crops will often use a tun of cider, or lay a new fleece in front of the fire. Even [[alders]] observe this tradition where they can, taking produce from their gardens or window boxes and placing the best of them at the centre of their home.		The same hearth magic is used in the traditional practice of keeping a sheaf of corn near the hearth, where it serves to capture the vigour of the fields and bring them into their home. Farms that don't grow corn or similar crops will often use a tun of cider, or lay a new fleece in front of the fire. Even [[alders]] observe this tradition where they can, taking produce from their gardens or window boxes and placing the best of them at the centre of their home.

	When the season turns, many poppets and ~~wheatsheafs~~ are laid in the fields and ploughed back into the earth, or more often ceremonially burned, to ensure a bountiful harvest for the following year.		When the season turns, many poppets and wheatsheaves are laid in the fields and ploughed back into the earth, or more often ceremonially burned, to ensure a bountiful harvest for the following year.
	<p style="font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold; margin: 10px 0 0 0;">Poppets in Play</p>		<p style="font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold; margin: 10px 0 0 0;">Poppets in Play</p>
	Making a poppet or straw doll a part of your character's costume is a simple way to call out your Marcher heritage. Poppets are ideally made out of the produce from your character's fields or garden, which is why they are commonly made of crop stalks, rushes, twine, flax or similar but there is nothing to stop you making a poppet out of cloth (if you are a weaver) or twigs (if your character owns an orchard). The important element is the idea of taking some of the boundless health of the harvest, shaping it, and using it to bring good health and protect from sickness.		Making a poppet or straw doll a part of your character's costume is a simple way to call out your Marcher heritage. Poppets are ideally made out of the produce from your character's fields or garden, which is why they are commonly made of crop stalks, rushes, twine, flax or similar but there is nothing to stop you making a poppet out of cloth (if you are a weaver) or twigs (if your character owns an orchard). The important element is the idea of taking some of the boundless health of the harvest, shaping it, and using it to bring good health and protect from sickness.

Hailmur at 13:28, 13 April 2024

2024-04-13T13:28:23Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:28, 13 April 2024
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	Most Marchers carry a straw dolly or poppet, made at the time of harvest to bring good luck and ward off evil omens. These intricately twisted and knotted effigies of crop stalks, rushes, twine or wool traditionally bind the vitality of the fields and pasture and grant that vigour to the bearer. Folk rarely agree on the best way to make a poppet. Some believe that the power of a poppet derives from its appearance - so the most effective are those fashioned into the crude shape of a person. Others argue that their strength comes from the natural vitality of the land, harnessed and harvested by mortal hands. Thus any shape can be used provided it is constructed from the healthiest produce available. Regardless, their use is ubiquitous throughout the Marches as a way to grant health and protect against sickness. Expectant mothers carry poppets to ensure a healthy birth, children are shown how to make one as soon as they are old enough, and landskeepers often employ them in magic that binds or shares vitality or strength.		Most Marchers carry a straw dolly or poppet, made at the time of harvest to bring good luck and ward off evil omens. These intricately twisted and knotted effigies of crop stalks, rushes, twine or wool traditionally bind the vitality of the fields and pasture and grant that vigour to the bearer. Folk rarely agree on the best way to make a poppet. Some believe that the power of a poppet derives from its appearance - so the most effective are those fashioned into the crude shape of a person. Others argue that their strength comes from the natural vitality of the land, harnessed and harvested by mortal hands. Thus any shape can be used provided it is constructed from the healthiest produce available. Regardless, their use is ubiquitous throughout the Marches as a way to grant health and protect against sickness. Expectant mothers carry poppets to ensure a healthy birth, children are shown how to make one as soon as they are old enough, and landskeepers often employ them in magic that binds or shares vitality or strength.

	The same hearth magic is used in the traditional practice of keeping a sheaf of corn near the hearth, where it serves to capture the vigour of the fields and bring them into their home. Farms that don't grow corn or similar crops will often use a tun of cider, or lay a new fleece in front of the fire. Even [[~~The_Marches_economic_interests\|aldermen~~]] observe this tradition where they can, taking produce from their gardens or window boxes and placing the best of them at the centre of their home.		The same hearth magic is used in the traditional practice of keeping a sheaf of corn near the hearth, where it serves to capture the vigour of the fields and bring them into their home. Farms that don't grow corn or similar crops will often use a tun of cider, or lay a new fleece in front of the fire. Even [[alders]] observe this tradition where they can, taking produce from their gardens or window boxes and placing the best of them at the centre of their home.

	When the season turns, many poppets and wheatsheafs are laid in the fields and ploughed back into the earth, or more often ceremonially burned, to ensure a bountiful harvest for the following year.		When the season turns, many poppets and wheatsheafs are laid in the fields and ploughed back into the earth, or more often ceremonially burned, to ensure a bountiful harvest for the following year.

Hailmur: /* Useful Links */

2024-04-07T12:23:06Z

Useful Links

← Older revision		Revision as of 12:23, 7 April 2024
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	Boundaries don't need to make your camp or your tent unwelcoming - quite the contrary - but ensuring everyone knows they are in ''your'' space helps underline this hearth magic. Marchers find it easier to relax in places with clearly defined bounds; even if your character is normally dour and grim it can be fun to relax your demeanour when you're in an area you define as "yours". The Marcher camp at Anvil is a good example of a shared space that "belongs" to all the Marchers within it - while individual groups may mark out their own areas the camp as a whole belongs to everyone from the Marches. It can be fun to be a little suspicious of people from other nations when they come into the camp. By the same token, when you visit somewhere that is clearly within someone else's bounds, you can subtly adjust your roleplay to make it clear you feel like a guest - or a trespasser.		Boundaries don't need to make your camp or your tent unwelcoming - quite the contrary - but ensuring everyone knows they are in ''your'' space helps underline this hearth magic. Marchers find it easier to relax in places with clearly defined bounds; even if your character is normally dour and grim it can be fun to relax your demeanour when you're in an area you define as "yours". The Marcher camp at Anvil is a good example of a shared space that "belongs" to all the Marchers within it - while individual groups may mark out their own areas the camp as a whole belongs to everyone from the Marches. It can be fun to be a little suspicious of people from other nations when they come into the camp. By the same token, when you visit somewhere that is clearly within someone else's bounds, you can subtly adjust your roleplay to make it clear you feel like a guest - or a trespasser.
	==Useful Links==		==Useful Links==
	* https://www.giftofcuriosity.com/how-to-make-corn-husk-dolls/		* [https://www.giftofcuriosity.com/how-to-make-corn-husk-dolls/ Article on how to make a corn husk doll]
	* https://youtu.be/vOr4E_cMXYg		* [https://youtu.be/vOr4E_cMXYg Video on how to make a straw doll]

	[[Category:Hearth Magic]]		[[Category:Hearth Magic]]
	{{The Marches Links}}		{{The Marches Links}}

Hailmur: /* Food and Drink */

2022-01-07T19:33:24Z

Food and Drink

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:33, 7 January 2022
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	The hearth magic of food does not only apply to dealings with mortals. There are accounts of bargains made over food with heralds and other creatures from the magical realms. In some cases, lesser heralds agree to help a farmer by tending fields or shepherding flocks, sometimes even working alongside the mortal yeomen in some fashion. In almost every case, these creatures require payment in the form of food and drink - a bowl of stew in the corner of the northernmost field or a pitcher of cider lowered into a well every full moon. In return the well might never run dry, or a garrulous servant of Ephisis might join the yeomen in gathering the harvest. There are also tales of the misfortune that befalls if these deals are broken; a field may become full of stones, the well water tainted and brackish, or the scythes in the barn warp and rust overnight as the angry herald turns on their host with the support of the powerful hearth magic.		The hearth magic of food does not only apply to dealings with mortals. There are accounts of bargains made over food with heralds and other creatures from the magical realms. In some cases, lesser heralds agree to help a farmer by tending fields or shepherding flocks, sometimes even working alongside the mortal yeomen in some fashion. In almost every case, these creatures require payment in the form of food and drink - a bowl of stew in the corner of the northernmost field or a pitcher of cider lowered into a well every full moon. In return the well might never run dry, or a garrulous servant of Ephisis might join the yeomen in gathering the harvest. There are also tales of the misfortune that befalls if these deals are broken; a field may become full of stones, the well water tainted and brackish, or the scythes in the barn warp and rust overnight as the angry herald turns on their host with the support of the powerful hearth magic.
	<p style="font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold; margin: 10px 0 0 0;">Food and drink in play</p>		<p style="font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold; margin: 10px 0 0 0;">Food and drink in play</p>
	Eating and drinking together can create a bond that helps people work together and build communities; a flip side to this is that you can feel free to be a little more suspicious of people who you haven't broken bread with. Food and drink are often employed in magic, especially in [[night magic]], and a coven might recognise this by beginning each ritual with a ceremonial sharing of bread and water. Taking the time to offer food or drink before, during, or after a negotiation adds weight and significance to that negotiation, and you may want to claim that an agreement made after sharing a meal is more binding than one [[#sealed with a contract]] or recorded in a [[#ledger]]. The fuller the table, the cooler the effect, but you can evoke this hearth magic just by sharing something as simple as a loaf of bread, a pitcher of water, or even a plate of biscuits.		Eating and drinking together can create a bond that helps people work together and build communities; a flip side to this is that you can feel free to be a little more suspicious of people who you haven't broken bread with. Food and drink are often employed in magic, especially in [[night magic]], and a coven might recognise this by beginning each ritual with a ceremonial sharing of bread and water. Taking the time to offer food or drink before, during, or after a negotiation adds weight and significance to that negotiation, and you may want to claim that an agreement made after sharing a meal is more binding than one [[#sealed with a contract\|sealed with a contract]] or recorded in a [[#ledger\|ledger]]. The fuller the table, the cooler the effect, but you can evoke this hearth magic just by sharing something as simple as a loaf of bread, a pitcher of water, or even a plate of biscuits.

	When talking about your home, it's quite acceptable to weave a story of some sort of magical creature such as the ones mentioned here into your tale. These kinds of minor heralds are not commonplace in the Marches, but some larger or more prosperous farms have one that helps with day-to-day activities, perhaps by preventing sheep straying, or working to til a field in return for the agreed payment of food or drink. These creatures are magical in nature, most are minor heralds of the Autumn realm, and owe fealty to one of the Autumn [[eternal\|eternals]] - most likely [[Prospero]] or [[Ephisis]] - and are not seen as mysterious or exotic by most Marchers.		When talking about your home, it's quite acceptable to weave a story of some sort of magical creature such as the ones mentioned here into your tale. These kinds of minor heralds are not commonplace in the Marches, but some larger or more prosperous farms have one that helps with day-to-day activities, perhaps by preventing sheep straying, or working to til a field in return for the agreed payment of food or drink. These creatures are magical in nature, most are minor heralds of the Autumn realm, and owe fealty to one of the Autumn [[eternal\|eternals]] - most likely [[Prospero]] or [[Ephisis]] - and are not seen as mysterious or exotic by most Marchers.

Matt: /* Food and Drink */

2020-06-15T14:59:24Z

Food and Drink

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:59, 15 June 2020
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	Eating and drinking together can create a bond that helps people work together and build communities; a flip side to this is that you can feel free to be a little more suspicious of people who you haven't broken bread with. Food and drink are often employed in magic, especially in [[night magic]], and a coven might recognise this by beginning each ritual with a ceremonial sharing of bread and water. Taking the time to offer food or drink before, during, or after a negotiation adds weight and significance to that negotiation, and you may want to claim that an agreement made after sharing a meal is more binding than one [[#sealed with a contract]] or recorded in a [[#ledger]]. The fuller the table, the cooler the effect, but you can evoke this hearth magic just by sharing something as simple as a loaf of bread, a pitcher of water, or even a plate of biscuits.		Eating and drinking together can create a bond that helps people work together and build communities; a flip side to this is that you can feel free to be a little more suspicious of people who you haven't broken bread with. Food and drink are often employed in magic, especially in [[night magic]], and a coven might recognise this by beginning each ritual with a ceremonial sharing of bread and water. Taking the time to offer food or drink before, during, or after a negotiation adds weight and significance to that negotiation, and you may want to claim that an agreement made after sharing a meal is more binding than one [[#sealed with a contract]] or recorded in a [[#ledger]]. The fuller the table, the cooler the effect, but you can evoke this hearth magic just by sharing something as simple as a loaf of bread, a pitcher of water, or even a plate of biscuits.

	When talking about your home, it's quite acceptable to weave a story of some sort of magical creature such as the ones mentioned here into your tale. These kinds of minor heralds are not commonplace in the Marches, but some larger or more prosperous farms have one that helps with day-to-day activities, perhaps by preventing sheep straying, or working to til a field in return for the agreed payment of food or drink. These creatures are magical in nature, most are minor heralds of the Autumn realm, and owe fealty to one of the Autumn [[eternals]] - most likely [[Prospero]] or [[Ephisis]] - and are not seen as mysterious or exotic by most Marchers.		When talking about your home, it's quite acceptable to weave a story of some sort of magical creature such as the ones mentioned here into your tale. These kinds of minor heralds are not commonplace in the Marches, but some larger or more prosperous farms have one that helps with day-to-day activities, perhaps by preventing sheep straying, or working to til a field in return for the agreed payment of food or drink. These creatures are magical in nature, most are minor heralds of the Autumn realm, and owe fealty to one of the Autumn [[eternal\|eternals]] - most likely [[Prospero]] or [[Ephisis]] - and are not seen as mysterious or exotic by most Marchers.
	{{CaptionedImage\|file=standingstone.jpeg\|align=right\|width=250}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=standingstone.jpeg\|align=right\|width=250}}

	==Chalk Figures and Standing Stones==		==Chalk Figures and Standing Stones==
	The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Menhir standing stones] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hill_figure chalk figures] common throughout the Marches mark the land as the property of humankind. A Marcher who wants to claim an area of wilderness will often begin by placing a standing stone in the middle of the area they plan to claim. This stamps the presence of humans on the rolling fields and hills, yoking the forces of nature, and subjecting them to the authority of mortal hands. Their presence is a crucial part of what makes Marcher lands so fertile.		The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Menhir standing stones] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hill_figure chalk figures] common throughout the Marches mark the land as the property of humankind. A Marcher who wants to claim an area of wilderness will often begin by placing a standing stone in the middle of the area they plan to claim. This stamps the presence of humans on the rolling fields and hills, yoking the forces of nature, and subjecting them to the authority of mortal hands. Their presence is a crucial part of what makes Marcher lands so fertile.

Matt: /* Poppets */

2020-06-15T14:58:53Z

Poppets

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:58, 15 June 2020
Line 9:		Line 9:
	Most Marchers carry a straw dolly or poppet, made at the time of harvest to bring good luck and ward off evil omens. These intricately twisted and knotted effigies of crop stalks, rushes, twine or wool traditionally bind the vitality of the fields and pasture and grant that vigour to the bearer. Folk rarely agree on the best way to make a poppet. Some believe that the power of a poppet derives from its appearance - so the most effective are those fashioned into the crude shape of a person. Others argue that their strength comes from the natural vitality of the land, harnessed and harvested by mortal hands. Thus any shape can be used provided it is constructed from the healthiest produce available. Regardless, their use is ubiquitous throughout the Marches as a way to grant health and protect against sickness. Expectant mothers carry poppets to ensure a healthy birth, children are shown how to make one as soon as they are old enough, and landskeepers often employ them in magic that binds or shares vitality or strength.		Most Marchers carry a straw dolly or poppet, made at the time of harvest to bring good luck and ward off evil omens. These intricately twisted and knotted effigies of crop stalks, rushes, twine or wool traditionally bind the vitality of the fields and pasture and grant that vigour to the bearer. Folk rarely agree on the best way to make a poppet. Some believe that the power of a poppet derives from its appearance - so the most effective are those fashioned into the crude shape of a person. Others argue that their strength comes from the natural vitality of the land, harnessed and harvested by mortal hands. Thus any shape can be used provided it is constructed from the healthiest produce available. Regardless, their use is ubiquitous throughout the Marches as a way to grant health and protect against sickness. Expectant mothers carry poppets to ensure a healthy birth, children are shown how to make one as soon as they are old enough, and landskeepers often employ them in magic that binds or shares vitality or strength.

	The same hearth magic is used in the traditional practice of keeping a sheaf of corn near the hearth, where it serves to capture the vigour of the fields and bring them into their home. Farms that don't grow corn or similar crops will often use a tun of cider, or lay a new fleece in front of the fire. Even [[aldermen]] observe this tradition where they can, taking produce from their gardens or window boxes and placing the best of them at the centre of their home.		The same hearth magic is used in the traditional practice of keeping a sheaf of corn near the hearth, where it serves to capture the vigour of the fields and bring them into their home. Farms that don't grow corn or similar crops will often use a tun of cider, or lay a new fleece in front of the fire. Even [[The_Marches_economic_interests\|aldermen]] observe this tradition where they can, taking produce from their gardens or window boxes and placing the best of them at the centre of their home.

	When the season turns, many poppets and wheatsheafs are laid in the fields and ploughed back into the earth, or more often ceremonially burned, to ensure a bountiful harvest for the following year.		When the season turns, many poppets and wheatsheafs are laid in the fields and ploughed back into the earth, or more often ceremonially burned, to ensure a bountiful harvest for the following year.
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	Poppets are not the only form this hearth magic can take. With a little preparation you can make a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sheaf_(agriculture) wheatsheaf] by tying twine around a bundle of stalks, prepare a small barrel of cider, or even lay out a sheepskin fleece. Regardless of how you evoke the hearth magic, something like this can make a great piece of set dressing at the heart of any Marcher camp.		Poppets are not the only form this hearth magic can take. With a little preparation you can make a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sheaf_(agriculture) wheatsheaf] by tying twine around a bundle of stalks, prepare a small barrel of cider, or even lay out a sheepskin fleece. Regardless of how you evoke the hearth magic, something like this can make a great piece of set dressing at the heart of any Marcher camp.

	==Food and Drink==		==Food and Drink==
	Food plays an important role in Marcher hearth magic and culture. Many important bargains are sealed with a meal, and it's common practice for everyone who works a farm to break bread together at the end of the day. It plays a central role in celebrations, especially births, weddings, and funerals, and is also an important part of community festivals such as the [[The_Marches_culture_and_customs#Wassail\|Autumn Wassail]]. Those who eat together find it easier to work together, and there are plenty of accounts of ill fortune and sickness befalling those who transgress against people they have eaten alongside, or whose hospitality they have abused.		Food plays an important role in Marcher hearth magic and culture. Many important bargains are sealed with a meal, and it's common practice for everyone who works a farm to break bread together at the end of the day. It plays a central role in celebrations, especially births, weddings, and funerals, and is also an important part of community festivals such as the [[The_Marches_culture_and_customs#Wassail\|Autumn Wassail]]. Those who eat together find it easier to work together, and there are plenty of accounts of ill fortune and sickness befalling those who transgress against people they have eaten alongside, or whose hospitality they have abused.

Noserenda at 13:24, 25 April 2020

2020-04-25T13:24:49Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:24, 25 April 2020
Line 9:		Line 9:
	Most Marchers carry a straw dolly or poppet, made at the time of harvest to bring good luck and ward off evil omens. These intricately twisted and knotted effigies of crop stalks, rushes, twine or wool traditionally bind the vitality of the fields and pasture and grant that vigour to the bearer. Folk rarely agree on the best way to make a poppet. Some believe that the power of a poppet derives from its appearance - so the most effective are those fashioned into the crude shape of a person. Others argue that their strength comes from the natural vitality of the land, harnessed and harvested by mortal hands. Thus any shape can be used provided it is constructed from the healthiest produce available. Regardless, their use is ubiquitous throughout the Marches as a way to grant health and protect against sickness. Expectant mothers carry poppets to ensure a healthy birth, children are shown how to make one as soon as they are old enough, and landskeepers often employ them in magic that binds or shares vitality or strength.		Most Marchers carry a straw dolly or poppet, made at the time of harvest to bring good luck and ward off evil omens. These intricately twisted and knotted effigies of crop stalks, rushes, twine or wool traditionally bind the vitality of the fields and pasture and grant that vigour to the bearer. Folk rarely agree on the best way to make a poppet. Some believe that the power of a poppet derives from its appearance - so the most effective are those fashioned into the crude shape of a person. Others argue that their strength comes from the natural vitality of the land, harnessed and harvested by mortal hands. Thus any shape can be used provided it is constructed from the healthiest produce available. Regardless, their use is ubiquitous throughout the Marches as a way to grant health and protect against sickness. Expectant mothers carry poppets to ensure a healthy birth, children are shown how to make one as soon as they are old enough, and landskeepers often employ them in magic that binds or shares vitality or strength.

	The same hearth magic is used in the traditional practice of keeping a sheaf of corn near the hearth, where it serves to capture the ~~vigor~~ of the fields and bring them into their home. Farms that don't grow corn or similar crops will often use a tun of cider, or lay a new fleece in front of the fire. Even [[aldermen]] observe this tradition where they can, taking produce from their gardens or window boxes and placing the best of them at the centre of their home.		The same hearth magic is used in the traditional practice of keeping a sheaf of corn near the hearth, where it serves to capture the vigour of the fields and bring them into their home. Farms that don't grow corn or similar crops will often use a tun of cider, or lay a new fleece in front of the fire. Even [[aldermen]] observe this tradition where they can, taking produce from their gardens or window boxes and placing the best of them at the centre of their home.

	When the season turns, many poppets and ~~wheat sheafs~~ are laid in the fields and ploughed back into the earth, or more often ceremonially burned, to ensure a bountiful harvest for the following year.		When the season turns, many poppets and wheatsheafs are laid in the fields and ploughed back into the earth, or more often ceremonially burned, to ensure a bountiful harvest for the following year.
	<p style="font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold; margin: 10px 0 0 0;">Poppets in Play</p>		<p style="font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold; margin: 10px 0 0 0;">Poppets in Play</p>
	Making a poppet or straw doll a part of your character's costume is a simple way to call out your Marcher heritage. Poppets are ideally made out of the produce from your character's fields or garden, which is why they are commonly made of crop stalks, rushes, twine, flax or similar but there is nothing to stop you making a poppet out of cloth (if you are a weaver) or twigs (if your character owns an orchard). The important element is the idea of taking some of the boundless health of the harvest, shaping it, and using it to bring good health and protect from sickness.		Making a poppet or straw doll a part of your character's costume is a simple way to call out your Marcher heritage. Poppets are ideally made out of the produce from your character's fields or garden, which is why they are commonly made of crop stalks, rushes, twine, flax or similar but there is nothing to stop you making a poppet out of cloth (if you are a weaver) or twigs (if your character owns an orchard). The important element is the idea of taking some of the boundless health of the harvest, shaping it, and using it to bring good health and protect from sickness.
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	The best way to make a deal in the Marches is to make it while eating and drinking. Whether it be a shared feast, a companionable pint, a plate of simple stew, or provisions for the road, agreements made during a meal carry the weight of hearth magic and every Marcher knows it is unwise to welch on such accords. Gifts of food and drink are common in the Marches. When freely given, they can bring health and good fortune to the recipient. One popular tradition is to give something prepared in ones own kitchen as a present to newlyweds, or to people moving into a new home. In all cases, the best gifts are those one has cooked, brewed, or harvested oneself - food purchased from others rarely brings any magical benefits.		The best way to make a deal in the Marches is to make it while eating and drinking. Whether it be a shared feast, a companionable pint, a plate of simple stew, or provisions for the road, agreements made during a meal carry the weight of hearth magic and every Marcher knows it is unwise to welch on such accords. Gifts of food and drink are common in the Marches. When freely given, they can bring health and good fortune to the recipient. One popular tradition is to give something prepared in ones own kitchen as a present to newlyweds, or to people moving into a new home. In all cases, the best gifts are those one has cooked, brewed, or harvested oneself - food purchased from others rarely brings any magical benefits.

	The hearth magic of food does not only apply to dealings with mortals. There are accounts of bargains made over food with heralds and other creatures from the magical realms. In some cases, lesser heralds agree to help a farmer by tending fields or shepherding flocks, sometimes even working alongside the mortal yeomen in some fashion. In almost every case, these creatures require payment in the form of food and drink - a bowl of stew in the corner of the ~~northmost~~ field or a pitcher of cider lowered into a well every full moon. In return the well might never run dry, or a garrulous servant of Ephisis might join the yeomen in gathering the harvest. There are also tales of the misfortune that befalls if these deals are broken; a field may become full of stones, the well water tainted and brackish, or the scythes in the barn warp and rust overnight as the angry herald turns on their host with the support of the powerful hearth magic.		The hearth magic of food does not only apply to dealings with mortals. There are accounts of bargains made over food with heralds and other creatures from the magical realms. In some cases, lesser heralds agree to help a farmer by tending fields or shepherding flocks, sometimes even working alongside the mortal yeomen in some fashion. In almost every case, these creatures require payment in the form of food and drink - a bowl of stew in the corner of the northernmost field or a pitcher of cider lowered into a well every full moon. In return the well might never run dry, or a garrulous servant of Ephisis might join the yeomen in gathering the harvest. There are also tales of the misfortune that befalls if these deals are broken; a field may become full of stones, the well water tainted and brackish, or the scythes in the barn warp and rust overnight as the angry herald turns on their host with the support of the powerful hearth magic.
	<p style="font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold; margin: 10px 0 0 0;">Food and drink in play</p>		<p style="font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold; margin: 10px 0 0 0;">Food and drink in play</p>
	Eating and drinking together can create a bond that helps people work together and build communities; a flip side to this is that you can feel free to be a little more suspicious of people who you haven't broken bread with. Food and drink are often employed in magic, especially in [[night magic]], and a coven might recognise this by beginning each ritual with a ceremonial sharing of bread and water. Taking the time to offer food or drink before, during, or after a negotiation adds weight and significance to that negotiation, and you may want to claim that an agreement made after sharing a meal is more binding than one [[#sealed with a contract]] or recorded in a [[#ledger]]. The fuller the table, the cooler the effect, but you can evoke this hearth magic just by sharing something as simple as a loaf of bread, a pitcher of water, or even a plate of biscuits.		Eating and drinking together can create a bond that helps people work together and build communities; a flip side to this is that you can feel free to be a little more suspicious of people who you haven't broken bread with. Food and drink are often employed in magic, especially in [[night magic]], and a coven might recognise this by beginning each ritual with a ceremonial sharing of bread and water. Taking the time to offer food or drink before, during, or after a negotiation adds weight and significance to that negotiation, and you may want to claim that an agreement made after sharing a meal is more binding than one [[#sealed with a contract]] or recorded in a [[#ledger]]. The fuller the table, the cooler the effect, but you can evoke this hearth magic just by sharing something as simple as a loaf of bread, a pitcher of water, or even a plate of biscuits.

Rafferty: /* Useful Links */

2020-04-25T12:14:51Z

Useful Links

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	* https://www.giftofcuriosity.com/how-to-make-corn-husk-dolls/		* https://www.giftofcuriosity.com/how-to-make-corn-husk-dolls/
	* https://youtu.be/vOr4E_cMXYg		* https://youtu.be/vOr4E_cMXYg
	* Link to "Hearth Magic"
	* Check Marcher page for other tutoirlas


	[[Category:Hearth Magic]]		[[Category:Hearth Magic]]
	{{The Marches Links}}		{{The Marches Links}}

Rafferty at 12:14, 25 April 2020

2020-04-25T12:14:35Z

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	<p style="font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold; margin: 10px 0 0 0;">Chalk Figures and Standing Stones in Play</p>		<p style="font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold; margin: 10px 0 0 0;">Chalk Figures and Standing Stones in Play</p>
	Obviously chalk figures and standing stones are hard to phys-rep on the field at Anvil, but a standing stone doesn't have to be a massive and impressive structure to reflect this hearth magic. Anything that shows evidence of human hands is effective, the best structures resemble the rough shape of a person, but even a simple signpost can all stand-in for a standing stone if needed.		Obviously chalk figures and standing stones are hard to phys-rep on the field at Anvil, but a standing stone doesn't have to be a massive and impressive structure to reflect this hearth magic. Anything that shows evidence of human hands is effective, the best structures resemble the rough shape of a person, but even a simple signpost can all stand-in for a standing stone if needed.
			{{CaptionedImage\|file=trilithon.png\|align=right\|width=250}}
	==Dolmens==		==Dolmens==
	Although less common than standing stones, the Marches are well known for their [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dolmen dolmens]. At the simplest level a dolmen consists of a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trilithon trilithon] - two vertical stones stood side by side and a third lintel placed across the top to form a gate or passage. Visitors to the Marches often confuse the two, but their hearth magic is very different. Dolmens are linked to the magic of doors, gates and travel, and it is no coincidence that their shape and form mirrors the constellation of [[the Door]].		Although less common than standing stones, the Marches are well known for their [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dolmen dolmens]. At the simplest level a dolmen consists of a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trilithon trilithon] - two vertical stones stood side by side and a third lintel placed across the top to form a gate or passage. Visitors to the Marches often confuse the two, but their hearth magic is very different. Dolmens are linked to the magic of doors, gates and travel, and it is no coincidence that their shape and form mirrors the constellation of [[the Door]].

Rafferty at 12:13, 25 April 2020

2020-04-25T12:13:46Z

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	You can learn more about hearth magic, what it is and how it works, [[hearth magic\|here]].		You can learn more about hearth magic, what it is and how it works, [[hearth magic\|here]].
			{{CaptionedImage\|file=Marcher Icons.jpg\|align=left\|width=300\|caption=Poppets bring good health.}}
	==Poppets==		==Poppets==
	Most Marchers carry a straw dolly or poppet, made at the time of harvest to bring good luck and ward off evil omens. These intricately twisted and knotted effigies of crop stalks, rushes, twine or wool traditionally bind the vitality of the fields and pasture and grant that vigour to the bearer. Folk rarely agree on the best way to make a poppet. Some believe that the power of a poppet derives from its appearance - so the most effective are those fashioned into the crude shape of a person. Others argue that their strength comes from the natural vitality of the land, harnessed and harvested by mortal hands. Thus any shape can be used provided it is constructed from the healthiest produce available. Regardless, their use is ubiquitous throughout the Marches as a way to grant health and protect against sickness. Expectant mothers carry poppets to ensure a healthy birth, children are shown how to make one as soon as they are old enough, and landskeepers often employ them in magic that binds or shares vitality or strength.		Most Marchers carry a straw dolly or poppet, made at the time of harvest to bring good luck and ward off evil omens. These intricately twisted and knotted effigies of crop stalks, rushes, twine or wool traditionally bind the vitality of the fields and pasture and grant that vigour to the bearer. Folk rarely agree on the best way to make a poppet. Some believe that the power of a poppet derives from its appearance - so the most effective are those fashioned into the crude shape of a person. Others argue that their strength comes from the natural vitality of the land, harnessed and harvested by mortal hands. Thus any shape can be used provided it is constructed from the healthiest produce available. Regardless, their use is ubiquitous throughout the Marches as a way to grant health and protect against sickness. Expectant mothers carry poppets to ensure a healthy birth, children are shown how to make one as soon as they are old enough, and landskeepers often employ them in magic that binds or shares vitality or strength.
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	Poppets are not the only form this hearth magic can take. With a little preparation you can make a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sheaf_(agriculture) wheatsheaf] by tying twine around a bundle of stalks, prepare a small barrel of cider, or even lay out a sheepskin fleece. Regardless of how you evoke the hearth magic, something like this can make a great piece of set dressing at the heart of any Marcher camp.		Poppets are not the only form this hearth magic can take. With a little preparation you can make a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sheaf_(agriculture) wheatsheaf] by tying twine around a bundle of stalks, prepare a small barrel of cider, or even lay out a sheepskin fleece. Regardless of how you evoke the hearth magic, something like this can make a great piece of set dressing at the heart of any Marcher camp.
	~~{{CaptionedImage\|file=Marcher Icons.jpg\|align=left\|width=300\|caption=Poppets bring luck and ward against misfortune.}}~~

	==Food and Drink==		==Food and Drink==
	Food plays an important role in Marcher hearth magic and culture. Many important bargains are sealed with a meal, and it's common practice for everyone who works a farm to break bread together at the end of the day. It plays a central role in celebrations, especially births, weddings, and funerals, and is also an important part of community festivals such as the [[The_Marches_culture_and_customs#Wassail\|Autumn Wassail]]. Those who eat together find it easier to work together, and there are plenty of accounts of ill fortune and sickness befalling those who transgress against people they have eaten alongside, or whose hospitality they have abused.		Food plays an important role in Marcher hearth magic and culture. Many important bargains are sealed with a meal, and it's common practice for everyone who works a farm to break bread together at the end of the day. It plays a central role in celebrations, especially births, weddings, and funerals, and is also an important part of community festivals such as the [[The_Marches_culture_and_customs#Wassail\|Autumn Wassail]]. Those who eat together find it easier to work together, and there are plenty of accounts of ill fortune and sickness befalling those who transgress against people they have eaten alongside, or whose hospitality they have abused.