First Hearths Fire

"As we light this fire it will welcome the warming rays of the Dawn Marshall. It will rebuke the Ice Walker's grasp on our lives. It will thaw the fields so our crops may grow. With this fire we welcome the birth of life anew."
~ Unknown Peasant

History

The first recording of this tradition is in the journal of General Erik Garb. He noted during their occupation of the city of Izel he saw that the local population was choosing the biggest log they had in their stockpile. When he inquired about it one citizen said it was to welcome the Dawn Marshall's embrace back into their home. Though the main principle of the tradition has withstood the test of time the tradition has varied in practice. Instead of utilizing the largest log now and allowing it to burn untended till it extinguishes itself the wood pile is now made with the smallest logs used and sunflower seeds are spread into the log pile before ignition.

Execution

The rite has to be conducted on the night of the spring equinox as the sun just sets. When the sun fully sets the logs are placed into the hearth in an organized fashion. Once the logs are in place sunflower seeds are spread over the pile as the invocation is spoken. Once the invocation is completed the logs are lit and the holy symbol of the Dawn Marshall is hung from the mantle. The logs are left burning all night without being tended.

Components and tools

The rite requires a few pieces of wood, sunflower seeds, a hearth, and the holy symbol of the Dawn Marshall.

Observance

The tradition of first hearths fire is observed during the spring equinox to welcome back the warmth of the sun and banish the cold winds of winter. Though the tradition doesn't affect the weather followers of the Dawn Marshall find comfort in knowing that winters grasp over their lives is almost over.