Rhennes, Host of Valor

Rhennes

One of the Twelve High Hosts that rule over the Heavens. Being the Host of Valor, Rhennes is oft said to be more feared by the peasantry than any of the Winter Hosts. The first host of Summer, Rhennes represents the coming of clear weather and, therefore, the ideal time for warfare. Many powerful families will consult with hostesses in the fourth month, or otherwise pray to Rhennes on whether they should risk a military campaign. This is especially true in eastern and northern Monos, notoriously unstable regions. Rhennes also represents loyalty and blind faith, so statues and depictions of her can be found behind many thrones and at the corners of many temples. She is typically shown holding a sword pointing downward, with long golden hair. Strangely, golden hair has become less popular since the Eysch have come to eastern Kynaj, and some modern depictions show Rhennes either with the white hair of the Viisianars or orange hair, which often leads to confusing her with Fairess (who is also associated with swords and flame-colored hair). Rhennes is usually depicted in a gown of some kind, whereas Fairess is oft shown in mail or leathers, yet even this can be confusing, as Rhennes' association with war can lead many to expect to see her in armor. Rhennes' most popular feast is the Fete of Leavetaking. It is the traditional feast that takes place before soldiers march out to war, though lesser feasts when a guest leaves a castle are also called Fetes of Leavetaking. Rhennes is often invoked when a guest is departing. Rhennes' colors are Yellow and Orange. Her bird is the Wren. Her beast is the Lion. Her month is the fourth month, called the Rhen Moon or the War-Moon. Her constellation is the Tower. She is associated with loyalty, strength, and vindictiveness. She is considered the patron of Carac Nulunur, the fourteenth Royarch, called the Great Gatesman. Common Aspects: Rhennes Laochan (the warrior), Rhennes Geita (the gatekeeper), Rhennes Cosanta (the protector)