Venian Fifteenth Birthday

Execution

A Venian becomes an adult when they reach fifteen years old. In a ceremony, the child leaves their childhood clothes and toys to the gods of their household or local area. At the end of the relatively short ceremony, the Venian donned a set of new clothes, symbolizing their passage from one stage of life to the next. The child put on the new garments in another room, away from the other attendees. For the wealthiest, they donned a pure white tunic or robe and a bright blue cloak - the monstrously expensive pigment obtained by crushing snails. Children from moderately wealthy families wore white clothing and blue cloaks, colored with imported indigo or woad. When the child presented themselves to the audience, they were now a full-fledged citizen - benefitting from all privileges and beholden to all accompanying duties and responsibilities. A feast is typically held afterward, featuring the fifteen year old’s favorite foods. A common tradition is to allow the wealthiest children to observe a session of the Venerated - the governing body of Venia and all her territories.

Components and tools

One needs to have an altar dedicated to the household gods and spirits where offerings will be made. These offerings include childhood clothing, toys, and sweets. All three symbolize the end of childhood and beginning of someone’s adult life. The most common sweets offered are honey cakes and fruits such as apples, pears, figs, or dates. Also needed is the snow-white clothing and optional blue accoutrement.

Participants

Obviously, the most important participant is the soon-to-be adult. Their mother and father are present to assist the child in leaving the offerings, and to observe them put on the new citizen clothing. Any other kin who can be present are, along with close friends and any slaves the child’s family owns.

Observance

The same day the child was born is when the rite of passage happens.