The Ritual of Elden Bonding

Overview

The Ritual of Elden Bonding is a tradition steeped in the history and culture of Teralt. Once widely practiced across various kingdoms and city-states, this ritual has come to be seen as old-fashioned in modern times. Nonetheless, it still holds significance in certain communities and is regarded with respect by those who appreciate Teralt's rich heritage.
The Ritual of Elden Bonding is an Andron ceremonial practice that involves the forging of a spiritual connection between two individuals, typically as a rite of passage into adulthood or as a solemnization of friendship or partnership. The bonding is symbolized through the intertwining of specially crafted Elden Threads, representing the joining of lives and destinies.

Process

1. Preparation: The individuals partaking in the ritual must undergo a purification process, often including fasting and meditation.
2. Selection of Elden Threads: The threads are chosen based on the participants' characteristics and the nature of their relationship. They are often blessed by religious leaders, each thread given a significant meaning.
3. Ceremony: Conducted by an Elden Master, the ceremony involves intricate chants, dances, and the weaving of the threads around the participants' wrists or fingers.
4. Sealing the Bond: The Elden Master finalizes the bond with an ancient spell, sealing the connection between the individuals.

Significance

The Ritual of Elden Bonding is considered a sacred and unbreakable commitment, often transcending the bounds of time and space. It is believed to provide guidance, strength, and support to those involved.

Modern Perception

In contemporary Teralt, the ritual is often viewed as archaic and overly formal, especially as any historical record of how such bonds might have been enforced has been lost. Though, amongst those who practice the ritual, it is believed that the bonds are divinely enforced. Breaking one shall bring the wrath of the world down upon those who go against their bonds.

Regions of Practice

Though considered old-fashioned, the Ritual of Elden Bonding is still actively practiced in more traditional or remote communities. It is sometimes incorporated into special occasions or used by those seeking to connect with the Andron's ancestral wisdom.

Controversies

The supposed unbreakable nature of the bond has led to debates and ethical considerations, given that participants in the ritual do not necessarily always know everything about those they are bonding to, and that this might later come up can lead to sacrilegious breakage of the bonds.