Rite of Decay & Death

In a secluded chamber, lit only by candlelight, the initiate would be presented with a black stone. As they held it, a high priest would recite an ancient incantation, emphasizing the inevitability of death and the futility of resistance. The initiate would then swear an oath to reject all medical intervention and to embrace their mortal coil.

History

Is a ritual with roots as ancient as civilization itself. Its origins can be traced back to when humanity was more in tune with the natural cycle of life and death. Early humans, faced with the inevitable mortality, developed rituals to honor and prepare for the transition. These practices evolved, influenced by various cultures and belief systems.
Some scholars believe that the twin gods, Morbus and Fatum: The Twins,  subtly and manipulatively instilled fear of the futile nature of existence and the veneration of death. Over the years, the veneration of these gods grew along with their domains

The perception of the Rite as a moral decay is often rooted in a misunderstanding of its core principles. For adherents, it is a path to spiritual liberation and a rejection of a life prolonged "artificially", by magical means or medicinal herbs. They argue that it is more humane to embrace death naturally rather than to prolong suffering through medical intervention. However, the extreme measures taken by some practitioners have led to the ritual being condemned as morally corrupt. Especially those who, during the rite, do not try to alleviate the suffering of the affected, considering it torture

Execution

1. Preparation: The individual choosing to undergo the Rite undergoes a period of spiritual preparation, often involving isolation and meditation. In most cases, this is skipped cause the severity of the illness.
2. The Gathering: A small group of initiates and loved ones gather in a secluded location.
3. The Oath: The individual swears a solemn oath to embrace death and rejects all medical intervention.
4. The Incantation: A special priest or priestess recites an ancient incantation invoking Morbus and Fatum. Conjuring the withering whispers curse, that causes the subject to contract the Withering Sickness disease, which will accelerate the process of decay and finally the death of the individual.
5. The Black Stone: A stone imbued with the essence of Morbus is placed on the initiate's chest.
6. The Final Hours: The initiate is left to contemplate their mortality as the effects of the stone take hold.

Some extreme fanatics skip steps 4 and 6, that's the reason many considered this rite torture and an evil one. Mobus and Fatum don't have an interest in suffering. 

Components and tools

• The Black Stone: A central element, imbued with the essence of decay. The key component to cast the curse.
• Candles: Symbolizing the transition from life to death and the decay process.
• Incense: Used to create a sacred atmosphere and mask the odors of decay.
• Herbal concoctions: Some groups use specific herbs to induce a state of tranquility.
• Ritual garments: Special clothing worn by the initiate or the participants, with the colors of the faith.

Participants

Typically, the Rite is attended by a small group of close friends or family members. A high priest or priestess, deeply versed in the tradition, oversees the ritual. In some cases, a specialist, known as a "Morbus Attendant," may be present to monitor the initiate's condition and accelerate the process, if necessary, casting the withering whispers curse.

Primary Related Location

Eastern Kingdom