Feast of Bellona - June 3rd
There might be an army beside, but as you stand facing death you are all alone. The trumpets shall blow any minute now, the sound of the horses thumping their feet echoes throughout and still you stand. You can feel the blood rushing to your face, your grip tightening on your sword and you wait. The trumpets sound, and a cry rushes from your mouth. A scream, a cry so loud everything else is muted in comparison and you march forward. This cry that can scare an enemy and inspire courage in ones comrades is attributed to the Roman Goddess Bellona. Extremly popular with Roman warriors she is variously described as the wife, sister or even daughter of Lord Mars. She is attired with serpent hair, war helmet, full armour and carries a torch and a whip. ‘ Blood, Fire and Famine’ are considered her handmaidens. Bellona’s themes are protection, victory, communication and strength. Her symbols are swords (or athame) and spears. She who kindles the fire of the sun and the fire...