Rituals

Rituals are the most common form of magic. They are formal acts and ceremonies used to call on the Gods for help, protection, or guidance. Unlike other types of magic that require high levels of divine blood, rituals can be performed by anyone who has enough belief in the gods.

While high-ranking Heroes and priests often lead rituals, ordinary people take part or even lead small ones themselves. The success of a ritual depends on how devoted those involved are to the god they are calling upon. Rituals often involve following a specific process, specific preparations, or the sacrifice of something valuable to show that the person is serious about their request. It is also a great honour to be chosen to lead a community ritual, such as the ones held during the dark months.

Many rituals use runes, which are ancient symbols that hold power when they are made properly. Ordinary people can carve these runes and use blood to give them power. Most people use their own blood freely given for simple tasks. However, adepts of the mysteries can use more powerful rituals to inscribe runes. These powerful acts are often driven by a larger sacrifice to the gods, which makes the magic much stronger.

• The First Night: This is a short but important ceremony held in late summer to celebrate the return of the dark. The community gathers to pray to Malfin, the Lady of Darkness, and her twin sister Aeolf, the Goddess of Flames. It usually involves a bonfire and the sacrifice of a lamb or other spring born animal.
• Initiation: This ritual is used to bring a person into the secret teachings of a god. The exact ritual varies depending on the good in question, but once initiated the person receives better protection from the god.
• Amulet Attunement: Most adults have an amulet. A ritual is used to bless the item and create an arcane link between the amulet and the person it protects. This ritual makes it harder for others to use curses or scrying on the owner.

• Straven: The island where the community gathers for the First Night ritual.
• Estreham: The site of an ancient temple where powerful rituals are performed.

• Mysteries: The secret teachings and rituals associated with specific gods.
• Runes: The symbols used during rituals to channel divine power.
• Words of Power: A form of magic using words.