Citzens of the Realm

A fantastical tale of the strange, wondrous, and imaginative people of Realm Makers

Arrival: Day One

When I first happened upon the current village of this nomadic, creative tribe, I wasn’t entirely certain what to expect. Though I had travelled many miles to find them, I grew anxious. My hands were clammy, and my heart beat a spastic rhythm from its new location in my stomach. I feared that territorial disagreements may erupt. Many tribes do not take kindly to interlopers. I steeled my resolve, prepared to hold my ground and fight for my place among them.

     

My trepidation was somewhat quieted upon encountering two familiar faces. Much to my delight, they greeted me with open arms. While they may have frightened those who did not understand their culture, these kind and lovely females radiated a kindred spirit to me.

               

Upon securing a place to reside for my stay, I met those who would be sharing my dwelling. They too were welcoming, and I recognized them immediately as those I would call friend and sister. As our stay continued our bond grew, creating a sense of family. Albeit a sarcastic, teasing, and loud one.

As the evening continued, I was ushered into the main gathering area to meet with the rest of the clan. Again, the maniacal lightning bugs in my belly began their dance. This insane ballet only gained fervor when I realized I would be meeting some of the guardians of the group. People I had long admired and held in high regard. But as we chatted, I discovered that they were most gracious and humorous, and saw no rank among their people. Each person present was treated as though they were on equal footing, no matter battle experience or age. This was a delightful surprise.

                 

Acclimation: Day Two

The following morning, my training commenced. I was regaled with stories of adventure, and instructed on how to create my own. To embrace the calling, talent, and dreams given to me by the Great Author, and use them to spread His message in an engaging, thought-provoking manner. The instruction was unparalleled. It was as if every member of this community wanted to see me succeed in my quest, and were willing to give of themselves to see that I did so.

                

In between training sessions, I was able to meet the rest of the clan. I discovered that I had much in common with these people. More so than with any other group I had come into contact with. Each tribal member was kind, warm, and welcoming. They absorbed me into their family as if I had always been one of them. The way they folded me into their ranks was heartwarming. I will feel forever connected to these special people, and always grateful for their kinship.

                                      

To close out this first day of instruction and fellowship, a party was thrown. Everyone came dressed in their native apparel. It was fascinating! The odd nature of the clothing may have been off-putting to some, but I found myself enjoying the variety and joining in with gusto.

         

           

Animation: Day Three

The final day of my visit with this amazing people was bittersweet. We received yet more invaluable instruction, enjoyed our last moments of camaraderie until the gathering reconvened next year, and were treated to a wonderfully motivating call to action. We were told to Go! To be bold, and remember that we could do whatever was required.

We were sent out into the world to use what we had learned to further this precious realm of ours. My heart filled to bursting and my mind reeled with possibilities. I had entered this camp a frightened, solitary warrior. I didn’t know if those I yearned to glean knowledge from and battle alongside would accept me into their elite and wonderfully weird band of soldiers. I left as a member of a mighty army. Fully outfitted with the weapons I would require to conquer for the realm, and the support and kinship of brothers and sisters as dedicated to this cause as I.

Now, I leave you with a few words from masters of our craft.

 May we STOP doubting, GO forth boldly, and be prepared when our Father says “your turn”!

May we always be on guard and never assume, as our enemy will be more likely to show up in a bonnet than with fangs!

May we remember that our genre of the odd and magical, like no other, reflects the creativity of the Great Author!

And may we always remember we can do whatever it takes, because Robert Liparulo said we could!

 Long live the Realm Makers, weavers of fantastical tales and messengers of the Word!