Re: Harst, grandmothers

From: Jeff Richard <richaje_at_...>
Date: Sun, 09 Jul 2006 19:29:13 -0000

> We have tended to see the reeve as the unpopular tax collecter, or
> even landlord figure, who comes round to ask for the clan's due. As
> Donald says it saves the poor chieftain from having to besmirch his
> Orlanthi virtues of generosity by becoming a grasping hand. I
suspect
> the chieftain is often involved in the dispensing, keen to prove
his
> credentials as a ring-giver of course, and may often be in conflict
> with his reeve who tells him that they cannot afford to be so
generous.

I've seen that in action before! I'm pretty sure that is a common Orlanthi story.:)

> Jane mentions Vela. One thing that emerges for us in Red Cow is
that
> the Velan matchmaker is a very important figure. She travels widely
> among other to find suitable husbands and tout the clan's
daughters,
> so she is one of the first to be consulted when the clan wants to
know
> the measure of its neighbours. Her actions help to cement the
> alliances between the clans, so she is an important voice in peace
> weaving. She keeps company with chieftains and the ring, and maybe
> even kings. Don't underestimate the Velan matchmaker .

Absolutely - the Vela matchmakers are often some of the most influential political figures in a tribe.

Jeff