History of the Dreaming
By Deacon Gray
"When I placed my head upon my pillow, I did not sleep, nor could I be said to think... I saw -- with shut eyes, but acute mental vision." – Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley
Everyone has a dream, some dreams bright are fleeting, and some are vivid dark spiritual tales in our minds eye. The Dream that became this House was an epic.
After moving away from her Mentor, and his untimely death, Madame X found her self as a Ronin for many years. At first because of circumstance, then it became a choice. Wanting to make a difference in the community from the aspect of the Ronin, she and her dark brother Vailen, insisted that noble Ronin could be valuable members of the community if they pledged to honor local courts and their bylaws, and if given a voice in the community.
Their efforts paid off, and in the early years the legendary Court of the Iron Garden was the first court to accept Ronin, and even destinguish them as Elders. Such honored accolades gained the attention of other organizations and as if destined, the Court of Gotham soon followed suit by designating select Ronin as Knights of the Court.
Dreams grow and so did the Ronin’s place in the community. It continued to progress until even the renowned Court of Lazarus accepted a Ronin as a representative on their Council of Elders. Madame X was seeing her visions unfold.
Yet even as the dream unfolded the muse from the deepest ether of dreams was far from finished. Coming to Madame X and Vailen in a shared dream, the concept of the House of the Dreaming was born. It was not simply to be another House, but essentially a House of Ronins. Each Ronin was unique and individual. Each on their own path progressing toward their own dreams, dreams that walked hand fasted with the essence of The House itself.
As The Dream still grows so does The House. The highlights of its history and that of the members are woven together below inviting you all to explore your dreams, and perhaps share in ours.
Those Who Have Come: The Dreaming
Madame X came to the New York, New Jersey community with experience and wisdom she brought from Europe and the mentor that to this day she still holds in high regard. The Matriarch of the House of the Dreaming, Madame X started out as the primary advocate for Ronin Rights at such gatherings as The Iron Garden and The Court of Lazarus.
In a dream of ancient design she developed the House of the Dreaming, “It’s essentially a House of Ronin. I simply insisted on the possibility that Ronin could be valuable members of the community and I hold to that today.” Madame X maintains to this day that one does not need to be in a house to make a difference, her many accomplishments that predate the formation of this house stand witness to her beliefs.
Herr Wülfsunus has been a part of the House of the Dreaming since its inception, and he has grown a multitude of times. Wülfsunus is currently fulfilling his Calmae right of honor in the House of the Dreaming as Mradu. Perhaps you have met him in New York City as he participated in the Long Black Veil reunion, the private ritual at the Temple of Cats and has been the Keeper of the Veil for the Court of Gotham gatherings.
“It’s Encompassing. The House shows a personal interest with all the people it seriously considers for full membership and allows them to grow after their own design. It felt like it was a sharing of knowledge between all of us, where no particular individual was the mentor.” Wulfsunus stated, “I just love the spiritual aspect of the house (it’s not about glam), secondly its focus on more scholastic studies, and lastly the shear absence of drama.”
Sir Algernon was one of the House’s initial members having made an impact early on. This Calmae of the House of the Dreaming describes himself as“ A Goth Actor, Writer, and Professional Troublemaker” Algernon is known as the “Confessor” in some circles, many find themselves sharing with him their deep dark secrets as they seek his wise counsel.
His friends are his greatest obsession, he claims their souls are the most important things in his life, and he believes the world should know how beautiful, wonderful and precious they are to him. “Without you, I am nothing, so prepare to be embarrassed.” Algernon also is active with Convergence the Goth Industrial Culture Gatherings. Madame X has said this about him: “Algernon selects his projects carefully, and can be elusive, and but he is a dear friend to those he finds worthy.”
Bholanath, Dark Chyld of Madame X, joined the House in 2002. Best known for his community endeavors such as Red Pages and the Order of the Crimson Tongue, he is the Webmaster developer of the House of the Dreaming site, while he continues to inspire others with his community efforts. “I've always believed life always takes you exactly where you need to be. You might not want to be there nor understand why you need to be there, but there is always something to be learned.”
Among Bholanath's recent and on going tasks is the authorship of numerous articles of potential interest to the vampyre community. As diverse as their wordsmith, these essays cover a wide-ranging array of topics: from Magick and the Will to Mysticism and Truth, from Leaders and their need to Communicate to Communities and their need to form Social Contracts, Agism, Free Speech, and the dark-side of vampyrism.
NyxFury, also a Dark Chyld of Madame X, came to The House in May of 2004. Displaying high charisma and strength she embodies the allure and beauty that denote our kind. She is a member of House of the Dreaming following the path of the Kitra. You might have met her at Endless Night 2003 in New Orleans, at Endless Night 2005 in New York City, at any of the Skin II events, at the Black Atlantis gatherings in Atlanta, or doing dominatrix performances at the V Lounge in Savannah, Georgia.
A lover of the allure of the night she has mastered the power of desire and charm in a manner that truly makes her stand out. She is an alpha wolf, a predator always, even when she is looking into your eyes with a doe-like innocence reflected in her own. “A victim is a victim if they choose it to be so. We are predators, but at onetime or another we were prey to something. This is mother nature, when you cut yourself your skin grows stronger and tougher.”
Aislin Ni MorRhiaghan came into the House in May of 2006. She is an avid member of the local Vampyre community and a practicing mystic for over 20 years. Her traditions are steeped in Celtic Gnosticism with a healthy dash of Buddhism for good measure. Aislin has long been a strong member of both the vampyre community as well as the more mundane with her active support of many non-profit organizations such as Second Harvest and the Red Cross.
She is looked at as mentor to many in both communities and has had an impact on the house that is far reaching. “Community is getting to know and forming bonds with people we do not know by overcoming personal differences … Getting together is wonderful but what is more important is building a network and community cohesion. We do this not by separation but by unification.”
Lady Sequanna is a Lady walking the path of the Kitra, who was inducted into the House of the Dreaming in April 2007. She has been a friendly ear and shoulder to many. Her life focus is to know and help people; she developed both formally and informally valuable counseling skills. She has a degree in clinical psychology and is deeply interested in history, literature and art. As such, Lady Sequanna’s inner world is comprised of dark beauty and passionate poetry combined with a never-ending curiosity about the workings of the human mind. “The way I see it, there is no universal sin, and the same way there is no universal right and wrong. I find that the word sin is usually filled with religious intentions although one can use it with moral.” Known to be a perfectionist when it comes to her photography, she has been seen spending hours in search of the prefect components for her art, even if that includes imperfection. Dreamlike images often are filtered through the lens of her camera and her minds eye. “In this game everything is possible.”
Alterra Von Feuers was brought into the House of the Dreaming on July of 2007 as a Kitra. A dedicated Reiki student and writer; she has published two books “Bad Polka” and “Pernicious Guiles” and continues to put forward short stories and articles. Alterra, a mellow fun loving Kitra, seeks to capture the allure of The Green Fairy (Absinth) and bring it into each controversial tale she writes. “The more prospective I gain from my introspective searching the more I come to terms of what I am to become. I used to fear some of the core needs and the desires that arise from my darker aspects helping to achieve a twilight, a balance in my life.”
Honored by the chance to participate with The House in the High Sanguine Mass at Endless Night 2004 Alterra has found great joy and a new sense of freedom in the discovery of her Nightside. “There are so many wonderful things out there to discover, and it’s very cool to have such an inspirational family and friends to learn and grow with.”
Deacon Gray was brought into the House of The Dreaming in July of 2008 as a Mradu. A Writer and founder of the Graveyard Press, he has moved forward to pen a significant portion of the community’s articles on sexual vampirism and community opinion articles. Deacon is best known to his local community for being active member of the BDSM scene, focused on medical play and needles, mixed with modern fashion and art. “Why copy what other people are doing, art isn’t about making copies it is about developing new idea’s…let other people copy me.”
Deacon is also known as a lover of fine wine, absinthe, over 15 years old scotch and fine dining. He is always willing to engage in good topics of conversation, or explore a new vintage with you while dreaming up his next short story idea. “Stress is good and bad, but scotch…a good scotch is an inspiration.”
Khan is a Scholar, a Romantic and a Leader. He comes to The Dreaming with a wide and varied history in the winter of 2008, developing such projects as “The Dark Nations” and his activities within groups such as the VVC (Voice of the Vampire Community), made it no surprise that he selected the path of the Ramkht.
Those who have met Khan do not soon forget him. “I don't proclaim to have the keys to the kingdom, be all-knowing, or aspire to be the next community alpha. My story is like most, in that some is the same, and some is vastly different.” With efforts like the addition to segments of his autobiography added into Michelle Belanger’s “Vampires in Their Own Words” there can be little doubt to the direction of his future. "My life has been strange, and blessed, with no complaints. I hope others with experience do the same, so that our brothers and sisters know what is truly inside our beings.”
Ezikiel was brought into the House of the Dreaming in October of 2010 as a Ramkht. A studious writer, reader and explorer of culture, religion and life Ezikiel never fails to surprise people with his knowledge or his love of fun. When he is not working diligently on his projects such as the “Somnium Homunculi” a in depth study of The Embodied, he can be found out dancing with his friends. “I don’t think you understand the dynamic between ritual ceremony and just dancing because you feel the need. You do? Great let’s dance, maybe a demon will notice.”
Ezikiel is well known for how easily he moves with in crowds and how easily he is accepted in the places he chooses to attend, gaining respect of his peers quickly, and just as easily making them comfortable with home cooking, and how easily he can fall into song or light conversation. “I like to being kind hearted and fun, but I also want to pick your brain a bit.”
With Each Tick of the Clock
2000: The Threshhold of the Dream
It was the threshold of the Dream. Madame X and Vailen, conceived though a shared dream the concept that became the House of the Dreaming. Along with Wulfsunus and Algernon they found a warm welcome in such places as The Court of Gotham in NYC and Court of the Iron Garden in New Jersey where they were not only guests at the inception of this New Jersey organization, but also its co-founders.
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2001: Into Our Dreams
The House of the Dreaming had a year of introspection, growth within and a recommitment to its self and each other. Constant contact and time spent establishing the parameters of the House. Together they gathered their organizational concepts and cemented their goals as a house and for each other, as well. It was a time of illumination, that fairy tale moment - when you’re not sure it is really happening, it was happening; and the House reflects those timeless concepts that to date remain unchanged.
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2002: The Introduction of a Dream
It was a busy and extravagant year for the House of the Dreaming. After having been a frequent attendee of the Court of Barrens held in Long Island, New York, Madame X was selected as personal councilor to Lord Maelstrom, regent of the Court of the Barrens. It was her honor to get the chance to have been part of the behind the scenes for their 2002 re-instatement of this noble organization of Therians and Vamps.
Madame X, Herr Wulfsunus, Algernon, and Bholanath were hosts at the inception of the Court of Lazarus held in New York City. Their involvement was noted in the conclave discussions and ritual participation. House of the Dreaming selected Lazarus as the perfect place to become public; in August of 2002 HotD was introduced to the community at large and their Official website unveiled. Madame X was not only First citizen of the Court of Lazarus, but also Keeper of the Scroll holding this charge until November 2002, when she left The Court (and the NY tri-state area) for Savannah, Georgia.[hide]
2003: Emerging from the Night
The House of the Dreaming found it self immersed in an interesting year while exploring the southern territories. The House of the Dreaming co-hosted several regional events such as Medieval Mayhem in Savannah making a name for it self yet again. The House also took part in the conception, development and promotion of Black Atlantis (Atlanta, GA) with Psi-Vamp and the small house once again stood out as one of true individualism drawn together for a common goal, a common dream.
Also this year Madame X joined in collaboration with Michelle Belanger and Father Sebastian to produce the book “V: the Book of the Strigoi Vii”, (Aangel Publishing, 2003). It was an effort that brought a significant amount of prestige to the House, and really made it stand out among other Houses.[hide]
2004: Institution of the Dream
With the many events and activities this year was one of some impressive traveling tactics. In Savannah NyxFury was inducted into the House of the Dreaming, she is a welcome addition that brought a spirited sultry aspect to the House.
Later that year the House was invited to attend, and did participate in House Kheperu’s open House in Ohio. Madame X, Wulfsunus and Bholanath participated in other events including the Long Black Veil Reunion and Event at Paddles, hosted by Father Sebastian in NYC where we had the pleasure of meeting Don Henry of the hit TV series “Mad Mad House”. Members also attended the Black Atlantis in Atlanta GA. –“It was an amazing time, the Giants of the community were all moving in unison, and the strength of their intent could nearly be felt!”- Ronzilla (RIP)
House of the Dreaming applied this spirit when it conducted the High Sanguine Mass at Endless Night in New Orleans with such known personalities as Michelle Belanger, Father Sebastian, Rexxx Black, Occulus and other community members. The Q&A that followed showed the whole community the knowledge, skill and grace of the House of the Dreaming.
The House of the Dreaming held their annual festival day “The Rousing Chimera” in Savannah on November 20th. It was regarded as a great learning experience for all those who attended. Presentations, workshops, poetry, and ritual, were all included as the House of the Dreaming drew the community together to help celebrate their common dreams. [hide]
2005: Remembrances, Reflection, and Renewal
The year began with a Memorial Service for D’Dreannon at CBGB’s in NewYork City held Sunday, February 27th and it the cause of a more introspective year for House of the Dreaming. Bholanath was our Family’s representative at the service, but the loss of D’s passing is very much a part of all of us.
The Rousing Chimera Festival that year was held at Edgewater, New Jersey on Saturday November 19th with presentations, workshops, poetry, ritual, and much more. HotD invited all to come meet Members and Dedicants, as they explored their natures and celebrated common dreams.
House of the Dreaming also hosted a banquet on December 14th at Poetessa, in New York City. This was a formal private affair as Madame X was preparing for a European trip. This exclusive intimate event, it was one where all involved share a moment of togetherness before starting new adventures in a new year.[hide]
2006: A Year of New Beginnings
Events such as Black Atlantis - Atlanta, Black Oaks - Savannah and Black Abby- New York set new standards that have come to represent the community. “If you have never been to a Black Event, make it a priority to attend one.” –Jamie (aka Oroboros)
House of the Dreaming organized and co-hosted the first Black Oaks Event in August at “Elysyum Wine Bar and Gallery” in Savannah. That first event did a great deal to Establish Black Oaks as a fascinating gathering now better known for socialization opportunities and just having good wicked fun!
Aislin and Archere were inducted into the House of the Dreaming in this year, additions that have helped shape The House’s Direction. Madame X, Herr Wulfsunus, Bholanath, Nyx Fury, and Archere played major roles in the exploration of the community, bringing to it a sense of wonder that has since inspired many events and organizations. The Sigil workshop and demonstration conducted at Black Abbey is still remembered today.
Later that year Madame X returned home to Europe’s Portugal to reconnect with her native soil and found inspiration in her family’s homeland. “Sometimes one simply has to go home, I have two, the one I found here, and the one that calls to my heart.” –Madame X[hide]
2007: Exploring the Dream
The year was marked by the return of the Endless Nights Festival in New Orleans, the first since the devastating effects of Hurricane Katrina. Lady Sequanna and Alterra Von Feuers were inducted into The House of the Dreaming, both Kitra of charm and grace their impact on the House could not be missed. Lady Sequanna was close at hand, while Alterra spawned new interests in the USA.
Lady Sequanna, Wulfsunus and Madame X do some extensive traveling, reunited with Alterra and Deacon and met many new individuals, Houses and Ronin from around the United States and Europe. While in the East coast USA they attended the reopening of the “Court of Gotham” with “The Fairy Tale Party”. While in the West they attended a gathering of West Coast Vampyres at Club Krave in Las Vegas Hosted by Countess Nessa and House of Ma`at. New bonds were formed and old ones strengthened. “BloodBaths where imbibed, wickedness was abound, and I was charmed to receive so many wonderful people.”- Countess Nessa of The House of Ma`at
2007 also marked the release of Michelle Belanger’s book “Vampires; In Their Own Words” and the House of the Dreaming once again found distinction by having many of its works included therein.
Alterra Von Feuers hosted the Green Fairy Party in Boise Idaho in October of this year, and event that brought significant awareness of The House of the Dreaming, and helped promote local events and established strong ties in the North West United States.[hide]
2008: Active Dreaming
The Year of 2008 was a very active year for many of the members of the House of The Dreaming. With the full initiation of two new members Deacon Gray and Khan the House was more than a little busy with the lead up to both events, and all the gatherings and projects the House has become so well known for.
After the launch of the Dark Nations in Late 2007, the Dark Nations gathered over 2 dozen Houses and Orders into a collective effort designed to encourage communication and interactions through the Vampire, Therian and Otherkin society world wide.
HotD's official Gathering in February in Lisbon, Portugal hosted by Lady Sequanna, Madame X, and Wulfsunus boasted many friends in attendance. This House event set the tempo for the year.
In March Aislin Ni MorRhiaghan and Khan attended Twilight II in Atlanta, GA where Aislin and Khan were seated as panelists bringing honor to the House as a whole.
HotD held yet another gathering in Lisbon, Portugal late May, hosted by Lady Sequanna, Madame X and Khan with local friends in attendance.
Through the summer months starting in July HotD hosted multiple gatherings in Savannah, GA. The first a gathering built around Lady Aislin's ascension to Calmae with Madame X, Khan and local friends in attendance. Later in August and also in Savannah, GA, HotD hosted a formal dinner gathering hosted by Lady Aislin, Madame X and Herr Wulfsunus, with many local friends in attendance, leading to the development of a local weekly meet and greet in Savanna GA, Hosted by Lady Aislin Ni MorRhiaghan. Subsequent to this HotD also held an informal House gathering in Virgina Beach, VA with Khan, Madame X and Wulfsunus.
Khan together with Madame Webb from House Sahjaza co-hosted a Victorian High Tea in Philadelphia, PA early September, with Madame X, Wulfsunus and other friends of the family in attendance. Later in September an Official House Gathering and Parlor was hosted by Alterra Von Feuers, Deacon Grey, Madame X and Herr Wulfsunus in Boise, ID where Deacon Gray was officially initated into the House of the Dreaming as Mradu. Madame X, Wulfsunus, Alterra also take an evening to host a Naming Ceremony for our Dedicant Ezikiel.
Madame X and Wulfsunus were special guests at the OSV hosted Sanguinomicon release party in NYC in October. And, of all the outrageous seasonal events, it was Alterra von Feuers that hosted the biggest bash of the family, a Halloween Party in Boise, ID that welcomed many local friends of the Family. An event not to be easily forgotten.
On November 17th the Dreaming cellebrate THE ROUSING CHIMERA, The Dreaming Festival is celebrated by the whole Family and Friends. Madame X initiates weekly real time chats regarding Vampirism in Portuguese linking Portugal and Brazil.
In December Madame X, Wulfsunus and Khan are special guests at the Sahjaza Yule gathering ascension ritual. HotD hosts an informal house gathering in New York City, NY with Madame X, Herr Wulfsunus and friends in attendance as Khan is initiated into the House of The Dreaming as Ramkht. [hide]
2009: Inroads and Milestones
The Dreaming reach out to the Far West, expanding their presence in Nevada, Oregon and Hawaii, and to the Old Continent, in Portugal and Ireland. The House celebrates a full year of inter-mural communication via Dark Nations and establishes new community ventures.
This is a year of building and expansion for The Dreaming, beginning with the Celebration of the Official Elderhood of Herr Wulfsunus, and the welcome of Ezikiel Tempted as the newest Member of Our Family. HotD reinstates The Silver Circle, a private forum for Members and Dedicants, unveils a new creative expression forum ‘Creative Musings’, reworks the ‘Parenting’ forum to include discussions on minors and with Ezikiel erects a private site, ”The Dreaming Grimoire,” to archive private rituals and annotations.
The Collective, a series of interviews with Modern Day Vampires is the most exciting Dreaming venture of the year. Herr Wulfsunus and Asif Murad host periodic filming parties with Madame X as the interviewer. The Collective is brought to you by HotD and The Vampyre Lounge, to present non-partisan approaches from all angles of community interest.
Madame X and Khan’s collaboration on Michelle Belanger´s anthology "Vampires - in their own words” becomes available in Portuguese as “Sociedades Secretas – Vampiros”. To accommodate the growing interest from Portuguese speaking seekers, a translation of The Roads is now up on our site with thanks to Lady Sequanna and Dedicant Vitriol, the Serões the Quimera Vampyric Guild is established, two new forums and a new section of our Crimson Circle are unveiled, all in Portuguese.
In March, Madame X is featured at Camera Obscura in Honolulu, HW presenting on practices, beliefs, and semantics. Herr Wulfsunus helps address the group regarding Therians and Otherkin. The presentation is followed by an auction of the limited edition of the 2003 edition of the ‘V’ hardcover, and a book and picture signing.
Dark Nations hosts its first in-person gathering in Las Vegas, NV. Madame X, Alterra, and Khan were the Dreaming Embassy members who shared in the gathering. Taking this opportunity to meet Abbon and friends, a House Gathering is held there with Countess Nessa of House Ma'at, Vampyra of House Shadowgate, Heretic, Michael Converse and Antonio Restivo.
HotD gathers in Belfast, UK, in August, hosted by Madame X, Herr Wulfsunus and Khan. Not only did we celebrate Khan’s wedlock but had the opportunity to meet new friends and explore. It was an exciting weekend filled with romance, tall ships, ramparts, and tales of lore.
The House also gathers in Sintra, Portugal hosted by Lady Sequanna and our friends Von Spookiness and Siivet in November. Local friends joined in for a few brisk days spent at magical locations reconnecting the ocean-divide.
Other Gatherings of note include:
Madame X’s birthday in February at Fort Lee, NJ with Herr Wulfsunus, Khan and several local and out of state friends.
Khan’s Birthday, held in June at Virginia Beach, VA with Madame X and Herr Wulfsunus plus friends and Abbon Lord Ramirez and Lord Ryu of Noctem Aeternus.
Herr Wulfsunus’ birthday in August, where friends and Family joined Madame X and Khan to celebrate both at home with cake and at the NY Ren Faire.
HotD members raise havoc in Boise, ID! Alterra and Deacon attend 'My Bloody Valentine and the Vampire Masquerade Ball', a tandem event at the Terrapin Station.
In July, Alterra and Deacon attend the Exotica Fetish Ball, and in November, Alterra hosts 'Death of the King', a HotD Gathering, with house brothers Deacon and Ezikiel joining with local friends for ritual and merriment.
In Savannah, GA Lady Aislin as DJ SynSurreal, starts a new bimonthly Goth/Industrial party at The Wormhole. She also hosts frequent pagan friendly events, monthly social dinners, Pagan Pride Day fundraisers, and participates in the official PPD event in October.
The year ends with traditions continued like the monthly on-line parlors to socialize and discuss topics of interest. Other chats include: Tapestry of Dark Souls weekly with Lady Aislin, LesVampires biweekly with Khan and Imon, Serões da Quimera weekly in Portuguese with Madame X.[hide]
2010: Study, Commitment and Bonds
The Dreaming invests efforts in education with interest-specific guilds, thematic chats, podcasts, interviews and group discussions. Commitments and bonds were strengthened with gatherings in Portugal, Georgia and New Jersey where HotD came together in renewed commitment and affection.
HotD unveils the Somnium Homunculi Otherkin Guild to study the Awakening and the Embodied. The Guild offers an entry query for those wishing to join, pages on FaceBook and MySpace, real-time chats, a private study group, and podcasts via “Vox Homunculi”, namely The Body-Mind Complex. Study includes Awakening to the Embodied, Reaching Within and Reaching Out to the Embodied; with thanks to Ezikiel Tempted.
Serões da Quimera hosts pages on MySpace, Hi5 and Orkut. The guild, now meeting monthly, offers a new entry query, and a manual ‘O Guião’ with a podcast to help clarify and motivate guild participation. Twelve eductional conferences were presented this year with thanks to Dedicant Von Spookiness!
This year is marked by two gatherings overseas. The first, ‘A Gathering in Portugal with Madame X’, sponsored by Serões da Quimera and organized by Von Spookiness and Siivet, in conjunction with HotD in Sintra where guests from near and far joined to meet Madame X and Lady Sequanna. The second was an official House Gathering in May in Lisbon hosted by Lady Sequanna, Madame X and Herr Wulfsunus. The trio met up with Von Spookiness, Siivet, Queen M. and other family and friends to share conversation, laughter, delectable meals and explore particular locations of myth, history and energy.
Our ongoing projects continued with expected regularity like the Savannah based Dark Diner and Noctuary. The Collective interviews are now being hosted on YouTube, Break, MySpace and on Vampyre Lounge, reaching a wider audience. The Dreaming now hosts three private study groups on MySpace for each of the castes: Mradu, Kitra, and Ramkht, hosted by Lady Aislin. The tradition of hosting monthly educational and social parlors on line and in person continues. Of note, the February parlor was not just a members-only on-line chat hosted by Ezikiel, but also an in-person gathering in Fort Lee, NJ with Madame X, Herr Wulfsunus and Khan.
In March, Madame X and Herr Wulfsunus host an in-person Parlor with NyxFury and Lady Aislin in GA with a memorable dinner, bonfire, fetish party and a night spent in a haunted room. Continuing from the previous year’s plans Aislin with GA Bloodlines continues work toward an East Coast helping hands list of community friendly professionals as a resource for victims of vandalism, assault, etc.
This year’s icing was our NJ Open Gathering in October hosted by Madame X, Herr Wulfunus, Master Deacon, Lady Sequanna, Alterra, Khan, Ezikiel with many others in attendance including Roy Lucianna, Samandryel, Asif Murad, and Geneviva Rossi. Ezikiel is finally initiated and Master Deacon and Lady Sequanna become official Calmae of our House. It was truly memorable, replete with study, exploration, hands-on-experience, ritual, love and fun.[hide]
2011: Transformations
2011 was the year to upgrade house projects and start new collaborative ventures using modern media options.
Our website is transformed, featuring a new forum layout and color scheme that allows easier exploration. The site is still under construction and the Portuguese translations are not yet included as we plan to host a Portuguese mirror site. Our appreciation goes to Herr Wulfsunus and to Dedicant Samandryel.
Several new groups are now hosted on Facebook with thanks to hosts Herr Wulfsunus, Lady Aislin and Master Deacon: HotD's Facebook Profile Page, Witchy Mom’s Club, Dark/Spiritual/Wicked/Vampires Group, The GA Chapter of Bloodlines international, Dark Warriors plus Graveyard Press reopens in WordPress!
HotD in conjunction with Dark Nations, present ‘Sound Bite’, a newscast program for the community by the community. This podcast features first-hand reports and bulletins from groups and individuals. Information includes anything that inspires and motivates our community demonstrating positivism, benevolence and effort. With Thanks to Herr Wulfsunus and our Newscast Liaison, Dedicant Dark Adora.
Our ongoing projects flourish. The Collective releases five video interviews with community veterans and newcomers alike. The Somnium Homunculi Guild continues study and conferences exploring The Embodied vs The World and How Magic Fuels the Embodied. Serões da Quimera, the Portuguese Vampiric Guild, becomes more personal, introducing a 24/7 chat group on MSN and foregoing entry apps. Study includes: the secret societies, what seekers must know, techniques for inward discovery and vampiric rituals, with thanks to Dedicant Von Spookiness.
The Dreaming in conjunction with Serões da Quimera presents two gatherings in Portugal. The first, A Southern Exposure in July, where Madame X, Lady Sequanna, Dedicant Queen met in Portimão with Ookami and local friends to explore perspectives among haunted ruins. The second was a Northern Exposure, where Madame X, Herr Wulfsunus, Lady Sequanna, Dedicants Von Spookiness and Queen, plus Ookami, Andrea, and Miguel gathered in Porto, to get better acquainted with eachother and “The Demon Lands forgotten by God”.
A Savannah House Gathering was hosted in September by Madame X, Aislin Ni MorRhiaghan, Alterra Von Feuers and Ezikiel Tempted, with Dedicants Adora and Samandryel, and a few others in tow. It included a special dinner at Aislin’s home, Samandryel’s magic show, Pagan Pride Day with special presentations lead by Madame X, Lady Aislin, and Dedicant Samandryel, an inspiring House Ritual, a magical trip to Tybee Island, dancing and a Sangria photo night. We saw first hand just how busy the GA Chapter of Bloodlines is, conducting local Pagan Picnics and Dark Dinners, yard sales, auctions, and craft sales to raise money for underprivileged families.
As Dark Nations Delegations gathered in New Orleans, LA, in October, HotD seized the opportunity to conduct an informal gathering, with Alterra Von Feuers, and Dedicants Yami and Dark Adora, plus other friends and Abbon. Events included French Quarter shopping and bar hopping, trips to Bourbon Street, and Jackson Square, where the highlight was the Endless Night Vampire Ball.
Another year passes, again the Family celebrates its Rousing Chimera Festival, a day of personal reflection, family bonding and transformation marked by a challenge to 'step up' and transform as two of our senior members, Lady Aislin and Madame X, leave for extended sabbaticals.[hide]
2012: Of Dark Shadows and Bright Lights
This was a year filled with struggles, illness and challenges. Every one eventually goes through the dark night of the soul, for The Dreaming this was a year of dark shadows, but resumed our course onward and viewed bright lights at the end of that tunnel.
Our Matriarch’s extended Sabbatical was felt by the House inevitably bringing the Family closer, albeit shadowed. Upon Madame X’s return the Design of the Dreaming was updated with The Matriarch’s clause, The Elders’ Consensus and Our Black Swans note.
In June, Madame X and Lady Sequanna had an informal gathering with Queen and friends in downtown Lisbon, Portugal. Along the same lines at the end of August, Madame X and Herr Wulfsunus attended the Maryland Renaissance Fair in Crownsville for an informal gathering with Lady Gigi Frost; their impromptu adventures included, camping fun and a recognition of the Blue Moon.
A special note goes to Deacon Gray who is published in “Walking The Paths of the Ancient Ways” by Corvis Nocturnum. Make sure you pick that book up!
Lady Alterra Von Fuers visited New Orleans for the “Endless Nights Ball” in October, and emerged with renewed friendships and closer ties to the community.
Our guilds continued to shine. Otherkin Guild, Somnium Homunculi resurfaces as Ezikiel’s radio show Vox Homunculi enjoys success over several aired broadcasts on Blog Talk Radio. Portuguese Vampiric Guild, Seroes da Quimera, now with Von Spookiness at the helm, continues to offer real time conferences and establishes its presence on Facebook.
A number of House projects spearheaded by Deacon and Madame X open on facebook under such names as The Seekers Oubliette, The Path of The Crone, Dark/Spiritual/ Wicked/Vampires, and The Briar Patch; while old projects like the Dark Warriors group and the Graveyard Press continue to outpour wonderful thought provoking topics.
The Vermillion Dream, our Idaho Clutch comprised of Alterra, Deacon, Ezikiel and local swans, held several rituals and gatherings targeting the physical and emotional healing of our brethren who needed it. The Fall Equinox Ritual of Renewal on Halloween has now become a tradition.
In November Madame X and Heir Wulfsunus held a 2nd gathering in Portugal this time in Portimao with Lady Sequanna, Von Spookiness, and Queen. And later that month, Madame X and Wulfsunus were guest speakers in the UK at the Manchester Vampire Ball; they presented: “Ritual as a Draw Bridge to our Castle” and were joined by Ookami from the Czech Republic. The Manchester Community is showing such promising strides with good effort put forth by our friends from House Dark Realm and The Manchester Vampire Guild.[hide]
2013: A Cycle or Ouroboros
This was a year of great renewal for the House of The Dreaming both in the NY/NJ area, and with the firm establishment of the Idaho Clutch known as the Vermillion Dream, the seeds of renascence were sewn.
The year starts with the emergence of New Jersey Chapter of Bloodlines International on Facebook, an endeavor in which Madame X and Herr Wulfsunus personally head and work on diligently with Black Swan, Asif Murad. This social group was created for the purpose of building the New Jersey area Nightkind Community both off and online. With NJ BL, Madame X and Herr Wulfsunus hosted about 12 different NJ based events this year including: Dinner in Newark, a “Wicked Faire” meet up in Somerset, several movie nights hosted at Madame X and Wulfsunus’s home in Fort Lee, a visit to the Wildlife Center in Ridgefield Park, a social at the SteamPunk World Fair in Piscataway, a strong presence at “BatStock” to help save the bats in Lyndhurst, and a couple of other informal out-of state gatherings. We closed off the year with many new friendships and 97 members!
A new Member joins our Family! Von Spookiness, our long-term Dedicant from Portugal joins the House formally and is now recognized as a Full Member.
Our prized Dedicants also contributed to our cycle of renewal.
Kicking off the year was the development of the “Supernatural and Paranormal” forum hosted by Dedicant Gigi Frost. There our forum participants can discuss concepts and experiences with the many bridges and dark frontiers that approach us to the next world.
Dedicant Ookami introduced his new Public Page and Private Group on Facebook “Beautiful Beings – The Painted Self” focusing on physical development, and improvement as a health and fitness initiative for the NightKind Community.
Continuing our Tradition, HotD hosted monthly private and semi-private thematic online Parlors this year, opening minds and inspiring dreams. Of particular mention was our yearly Open House Chat held on November 17th, boasting over 40 participants from all over the world.
The Vermillion Dream Clutch hosts five fun filled gatherings in the state of Idaho this year.
Dedicant Gigi Frost hosted a gathering in May. An evening of wine and food and discussed the ongoing progress of the Family and Clutch and considered starting a much needed out-reach program.
In June it was Master Deacon Gray’s Birthday Bash with 8 friends attending.
There was private gathering in September with Clutch Members: Master Deacon, Alterra Von Feuers, Ezikiel and Dedicant Gigi Frost. The topic was continued develop of a local outreach, the radio show, and time spent together enjoying each other’s company.
In October, Alterra hosts the yearly Vampire, Goth, Pagan Mixer at her home. The event allowed us to share the company of various members of the community and enjoy the wisdom of many different segments of the local Nightkind community.
The Clutch also held a small private gathering in November for the Rousing Chimera Festival to enjoy the gifts of House shirts and new items for our altar.
Our last gathering of the year was in December, hosted by Alterra focused on family based topics and leatherwork.
The year closes with perhaps a greater sense of wonder then it started and even more positive prospects for the future of the House of the Dreaming, as it continues as it has for the past 13 years, One Family and One Dream, a future moving forward together.
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A year is only a marker of time. With each one that passes we grow, adding small gains of time to the hourglass of the eternal. It is the bonds we build in the passage of time that mark our lives, and so too have the bonds we have built all these years marked the lives of the members of our Family, the House of The Dreaming.
We bring you this History of our House to help document our heritage, and to help those interested in learning understand our establishment in the community. The history of this House is still growing with each passing year. We greet old friends with warm smiles and meet new ones with welcome optimism. Some, over time slip away on toward new paths, while others become more firmly bonded to the House and its Dream.
There are many paths and many dreams and we encourage you to explore them, and live your dreams.
