Within every one of us is a wellspring of emotional endurance. And
within each of us, it is different. In some it is deeper or fills faster
than in others. And just as physical activity requires physical
endurance, emotions require emotional endurance. When that well is
empty, it is hard to even react, to anything. Healing also stops,
because emotional wounds need that well to mend.

As we go throughout the lands, our actions, as well as the actions of
others will affect our endurance. Words of encouragement, thanks, praise
all these things cost the giver so little, but give the recipient so
much, that it is a shame that they are not used more. Comfort, sympathy,
understanding, listening these cost us more, and part of the reason for
that, is that it requires us to take some from our own well of endurance
and use it to buffer a friend in need. Love, both given and received
opens the channels that fill us. Hate, on the other hand, not only
closes those channels, but is a constant drain.

Betrayal is one of the most horrible things to do to a person. In order
to betray someone, you have to first cause them to rely on you, at least
somewhat. At that point, you are one of their supporters, adding a
little every day to the well in their heart. And when you betray, not
only do you remove the support you had been giving, but you also become
a drain. And the more support you gave, the more your drain will be.

There are things that are a small but constant drain. Secrets, for
instance, because holding anything inside requires some effort and the
larger the secret, and the fewer who know about it, the more it drains.
Anger also draws on that pool of emotional energy, as does sorrow.

Each of us has a web of emotional support. Sort of like and endurance
ring, but created from friends. This ring is important, and usually,
there is more give than take, and everyone is better off for all their
friends. When one needs help, the others are there for support. But even
with support, there are times when it is not enough, especially in times
of betrayal. The feeling of numbness that can overcome a person when
they are drained is why, sometimes a kind word, or bit of understanding
can rekindle tears or anger. It was still there, waiting, but had no
fuel to go upon. Do not be discouraged when this happens all wounds take
time to heal.

I leave you with this. Physical harm within Achaea remains within
Achaea, but many of us carry our emotions away from this world, into the
one beyond. Please, be careful with one another.

Kellenia Lena D'argan Stormcrow

Penned by my hand on the 16th of Phaestian, in the year 300 AF.