The Ai̯kae̯

The Ai̯kae̯, often referred to as the Seers of the Wind or Rai̯nu Sehk in Masoyan dialect, are esteemed figures within the Neʻā Woi̯ faith tradition. These individuals are revered as the spiritual pillars of their communities, bridging the gap between the human world and the realm of divine spirits, ancestral beings, and land entities.

Path to Becoming an Ai̯kae

The journey towards becoming an Ai̯kae̯, or Ipa's Path (Ipa Jotrak), is an arduous and intensely spiritual endeavor. It is said that potential Ai̯kae̯ are chosen by the spirits themselves, often manifesting as gifted children with unique intuitions, prophetic dreams, or deep empathy, referred to as Lumla's Gifts (Lumla's Bota).
When a child is identified as bearing Lumla's Gifts, they are taken under the wing of an experienced Ai̯kae̯ to begin their Sekel's Tutelage (Sekel Luwar), a decade-long period of intensive study and practice. This education encompasses learning the sacred scriptures known as Nenjei Scrolls (Nenjei Uto), mastering rituals like the Dance of the Ancestors (Yavs Vole), understanding the ancestral lore or Elders' Whispers (Asum Sufur), and acquiring natural wisdom known as Neyuni's Breath (Neyuni Hepr), including knowledge of medicinal herbs, celestial patterns, and seasonal rhythms.
During their tutelage, novices also undergo Nev's Trials (Nev Prubo), a series of spiritual and physical tests meant to deepen their connection with the divine and prove their readiness to become an Ai̯kae̯. These trials often involve periods of isolation in sacred groves, intense meditation practices, and physically demanding challenges.

Roles and Duties

Upon completion of their training, the Ai̯kae̯, now seen as Tulla's Chosen (Tulla Valib), assume various critical responsibilities. They lead their communities in daily prayers or Morning Songs (Rissu Ga), preside over seasonal festivals like the Harvest Dance (Yor Jav), and conduct important life ceremonies, such as Birthing Blessings (Bos Yuv), Binding Rites (Halot Tok), and Passing Ceremonies (Gol Iro).
As spiritual guardians, Ai̯kae̯ are also responsible for maintaining the spiritual wellbeing of their people. They perform Cleansing Rites (Hei Tol), Healing Prayers (Yatlu Bae), and Soul-soothings (Soht Fui), and are often called upon to mediate disputes, offering wisdom based on the Ancestors' Paths (Yav Jotrak).
In their role as the Weavers of Tradition (Utha Tevnu), Ai̯kae̯ preserve and pass on the stories, chants, and dances of their people, known collectively as Ayo's Legacy (Ayo Nalik). They also decipher the Signs of Neyuni (Neyuni Kosh), interpreting natural and celestial patterns to guide their communities.
Assuming the role of an Ai̯kae̯, or becoming Tulla's Hand (Tulla's Masi), is a lifelong commitment that transcends the physical realm. Ai̯kae̯ are expected to maintain constant communion with the spiritual world, receiving and interpreting the Messages of the Wind (Rai̯nu Ekam), and guiding their communities according to these divine revelations.
Moreover, as stewards of the land, they perform the sacred Earth-rites (Rehla Tok) to appease the land spirits, oversee the Offering of First Fruits (Yorl's Bahtae) during harvest season, and lead the Moon Ceremonies (Hona's Iro) to honor the celestial spirits.
In their duties, Ai̯kae̯ are guided by Uvna's Balance (Uvna Taese), a philosophy that emphasizes harmony between humans and nature, the material and spiritual worlds, and among individuals within their community. Violating this balance, known as Uvna's Wound (Uvna Keruv), is believed to invite misfortune and requires appropriate rituals to heal.
Becoming an Ai̯kae̯, the Voice of Spirits (Bosha Rafo), is not just a position of honor but a journey of continuous growth, spiritual refinement, and service. They are the living embodiments of the rich, ancient traditions of Neʻā Woi̯, entrusted with the noble task of keeping their culture's spiritual flame alight amidst the changing tides of time.