The Budding

Credit to: Wizard's of the Coast and Forgottenrealms.fandom.com

The vernal equinox holds a special meaning to the followers of Rillifane Rallathil in the form of a tradition known as The Budding. This ritual serves to honor the Leaflord's bounty.

History

It is not widely known when the first Budding ceremony took place. However, it is likely something which would be in the annuals of the high temple's library.

Execution

Starting on the 18th of Thawing (March) followers of Rillifane Rallathil partaking in The Budding begin to fast along with morning prayers at sunrise. While every temple of Rillifane Rallathil is open to followers during this fasting period, each year, one temple in the region hosts selected members of the clergy. As a follower of Rillifane Rallathil, gaining an invite to this exclusive ceremony is one of the more significant honors within the worship of Rillifane Rallathil. The fasting lasts into the third day, the 20th of Thawing (March), as the sunrises the second event of The Budding begins to take place. A ritual hunt is prepared and prayed upon as the clergy selects a member of those gathered to lead a hunt of an elderly and noble hart (male red deer). The chosen member has until sundown to return with the beast slain honorably, and it is considered to be an ill omen if the hunt is not completed in time. When the hart is brought back to the temple, the fast is lifted, and a feast is prepared. After those members who were present for the fasting have had their feast, the general community is invited to join the followers in dance and song, which helps reminded Rillifane Rallathil's followers of the natural cycle of life beneath his all-encompassing boughs.

Components and tools

The chosen member is not allowed to take any of their worldly possessions when they begin their hunt of the elderly and noble hart. They are presented with a white oak bow wrapped with the hide of the previous year's hart's leather, a quiver of arrows, and a ceremonial knife. Should the chosen member be successful in their hunt, they will be given this equipment as well as the hide emblazoned with the symbol of Rillifane Rallathil.