Living Village Elder

As the Living villager who has been within Avalon the longest, the Living Village Elder (LVE, often pronounced elv) plays many important roles in village life, from the ceremonial to the mundane. This includes important roles in both the Misinghalikun Guardian Ceremony that welcomes new members to the village as a part of the annual harvest celebration, and Departure when the Dead move on to what comes next.

Qualifications

The honor of this position is awarded to the most senior living resident of the village, according to arrival. It was thought that whoever had the most experience with the unique qualities of Avalon would be the wisest choice as a guiding councilor.

Requirements

Must be living and have been accepted through the Misinghalikun Guardian Ceremony. Only those who are spiritually connected to the village can understand its needs, and only those whose hearts have been judged by the Misinghalikun can 'hear the voice of Avalon.'

Appointment

With the speed of Monarchy the title passes from a deceased Elv to the next in line. Because of service on the Guiding Circle, the great deal of mentorship that goes into becoming the Living Village Elder is easily accomplished. However, due to the office being held by the villager with the most seniority, rather than the oldest chronologically, unusual shuffling in the order of things has occurred in the past. (For instance, when Ellen Allen finally went off, and was due to be replaced with the ailing and memory-challenged Joseph Messier, he passed on his selection and gave way to the much younger Guy-Francois de Brie.)

Type

Civic, Honorific

Status

Active

Creation

1719

Alternative Naming

LVE, Elv

Equates to

Council leader, town selectman

Source of Authority

The Guiding Circle, the people of Avalon, the sacred forest itself

Length of Term

Life (usually)

First Holder

Two Crows

Past Holders

• Ellen Allen

Related Locations

• Avalon, Indiana

Related Organizations

• Guiding Circle