Rites of Hospitality
High King Torsson arrived at the hall of Jarl Echen expecting to see the sons of Echen standing in vigil at the door, ready to slay any who would cross the threshold and declare their rule over Echen lands. But when they came upon the doors to Echen's great hall, they found nary a sentry posted. The High King descended from his steed and, accompanied by his daughters with their weapons drawn, crossed the threshold into the dwelling. Immediately, the High King was struck by the familiar scent of fresh-baked bread, just as his grandmother had made when he was but a boy. At the doorway, a small table had been set out, and resting upon it was a loaf of long-grained rye bread alongside a bowl of honey. At the other side of the hall, Jarl Echen and his family awaited, having set aside their harness and shields in favour of cloaks to offer to their esteemed guests. The High King ate of the bread and honey offered, shared it with the Jarl, and they knew in their hearts that no harm would come to them while they remained within the halls of Echen. -- One of the first written accountings of the Rites of Hospitality in 228, as recorded in the Ildrafn Archives
Execution
When honoured guests are expected, an offering of food is left out within the first room that the guests might enter. Prior to entering the homestead, the visitor must declare themselves truthfully and honourably. Both the host and the guest partake of the chosen food, with the host taking the first bite to signify that the meal contains no poison. Once both parties have eaten a portion of the offering, the guests can stand assured that no harm shall come to them while they remain within the home of their host.
Components and tools
The major components of the Rite of Hospitality are a loaf of bread and something to consume with it. Early iterations of the Rite used long-grained rye bread and an offering of honey. Different regions of Banteave, of course, adjusted the Rite to better suit the available foodstuffs. On the Gannets, the bread is often accompanied by dried fish or salt. Within the Heartlands, grapes or berries are the traditional accompaniment.
Related Ethnicities
