Night of the Remembered Dead

While their longer lifespans compared to most other races often results in the Elves not being too concerned with their own mortality, the Dark Elves of Saenziath are a notable exception, being more keenly aware of their mortality than most of their kind as a result of their turbulent history. It's this culturally ingrained respect for the cycle of life and death that lead to the creation of the Night of the Remembered Dead, a yearly festival when Dark Elves throughout Saenziath and beyond come together to honour the lives and memories of the departed, and to let go of their grief for their passing. From their turbulent beginnings to their more peaceful present, the Night of the Remembered Dead has been an integral part of Dark Elf culture, being a source of comfort and closure for many.

History

Dark Elf history holds that the first Night of the Remembered Dead was held around the time that the first of their ancestors were able to establish a stable home for themselves after The Ashen Ruin, to pay respect to those who were lost in the disaster.

Execution

The daylight hours of the Night of the Remembered Dead are spent preparing for the festivities of the night. This typically consists of cleaning the streets and public places of the settlements, as well as crafting the candles/lanterns for the final ceremony and preparing the offerings.

The festival itself begins at sundown, and consists of the participants meeting with friends and relatives to reminisce, perusing market stalls, and participate in entertainment events. It's also at this time that participants leave their offerings at the final resting place of their relative/close friend, either alone or in the company of surviving relatives/friends.

At midnight, the final light ceremony begins, consisting of the participants presenting a small lit candle at their dearly departeds resting place, representing their spirit. Depending on the surrounding environment of the settlement, there may be some variation on this particular part of the ceremony, mainly in the form of lanterns that can be floated down a body of water, or, if near a cavern that opens up to the surface, floated into the sky. Regardless of the variant practised, this aspect of the festival is considered to be the most visually stunning aspect, with the cities and towns of the Dark Elves comming alive with light.

Components and tools

Those participating in the Night of the Remembered Dead must bring an offering to place at their deceased relatives resting place, typically consisting of food (typically their favourite meal in life) and/or a small object of some significance. Additionally, participants must bring a candle or lantern (depending on the surrounding environment) for the final ceremony at midnight.

Participants

All members of Dark Elf society participate in the festivities, with the ceremonies being overseen by members of the priesthood.

Observance

The Day of the Remembered Dead is held yearly on the first full moon of the month of Summers End. The day is spent preparing for the festivities to come, which officially begin at sundown, and end with the final light ceremony at midnight.

Related Ethnicities

• Dark Elves