Post by Hollendra on Mar 11, 2018 2:54:20 GMT
Feasts
Feasts are elaborate celebrations to appease the Deities' ever-growing appetite. They are another popular event within the Brethren. More common than Carnages, Feasts occurs at least once every month or when a Priest, Sibyl, or Chief Witch deems it necessary.
Several parts come together to create a Feast.
First, a band of Outriders, Omens, Chief Vanguards, and anyone else wishing to join, travels far beyond the lands of the Brethren to bring home the best prey the earth offers. When they have returned home, everything to be feasted upon is stacked into a great pile in the center of the land. The food is "blessed" by Priests, Sibyls, and Chief Witches alike, raining wishes and good luck onto the prey.
Following this will be the sharing of the hallucinogenic herb called Kilkadius, specially harvested from lands far from home and protected by the Mages until a Feast is needed. Every member of the Brethren will partake, no matter the age. Kilkadius is said to enhance all of the senses and create a sense of joy, comfort, and bravery. The effects are harmless as long as a reasonable amount is consumed.
A bonfire is struck up, and traditional song and dance follow. Some Regals and Chiefs may give speeches in honor of the Deities, along with thanks, future goals for the Brethren, and good announcements. An official prayer follows, administered by a Grim, Mage, or Chief Witch, which requires absolute silence.
The Grim must then select their meal. Unlike everyone else, the Grim does not feast upon typical prey, but a fellow canine. A living Weakling will be chosen, (an NPC, unless someone agrees to be eaten). All will watch as the Grim takes their meal, probably squealing in fear at the moment, to the stone at the head of camp. There, all will witness as the Grim slaughters the Weakling, as gruesome as they choose. It is tradition that the Grim devours all of the Weakling, though bones may be spared to create an ornament later. Loud cheering is expected to follow.
The real chaos begins now. Everyone else may now eat. There is no pecking order for the feasting. All is free reign, and violence may be expected. Blood and flesh collide as the Brethren feast.
With full stomachs and the Deities temporarily pleased, the Brethren finally fall from the high of Kilkadius. Be aware that strangers may become temporary lovers, and mates may become passionate. Graphic sexual acts may follow, if desired. (All to be done in party or whisper, of course.) For it is easy to enjoy company during the Feast.
The day comes to a blissful end, and in the morning, all will return to normal once more.