Birthdays in Torverath

I can’t help myself. Every year on my birthday, I wake up as early as I can and head directly to Torva’s Temple. It’s the first thing I do to kick off another year.

— Citizen of Torverath

Many citizens of Torverath are devout followers of the goddess Torva. As such, birthday celebrations for most Torverathi usually begin with a morning visit to the Temple of Torva where they can receive a blessing from one of the monks or priestesses.

Magic Lights

by Monique Pongan on Unsplash

In addition, a magic light orb is lit in honor of the birthday celebrant in a designated alcove of the temple. This light is maintained throughout the day and night and can be visited by anyone. Some people make a habit of stopping by these lights to wish good fortune upon the birthday celebrants or to offer up a quick prayer to Torva for their continued health and safety.
Anyone, Torverathi citizen or visitor, can receive this benefaction. Priestesses and monks often receive this blessing from the High Priestess, as well as certain visiting dignitaries, and other high-ranking officials, like the general of the Paladin Order.
This is such a popular birthday activity that even those who are less religious and do not often visit the temple will still participate in this Torverthi birthday ritual. Given the population of Torverath and visitors from Salaris, on any given day, several lights are lit in this alcove.

There’s just something about seeing your light up there in the temple, a feeling of pride or importance, like maybe the goddess notices you.

— Citizen of Torverath

After this, celebrants will go about their day in any way they might usually. Additional forms of celebration are also common, such as meals or parties with families and friends, gifts, chocolate, or any number of personal celebrations.

by Monique Pongan on Unsplash

About the Lights

These light orbs are used in the temple for the birthday celebrations and around the world for general lighting purposes.
They are spheres of clear glass or crystal that are imbued with magic. Tiny runes etched on one side allow them to be powered with a simple spell. The capacity of the sphere, the amount of magic they will hold and the duration of light produced, are dependent upon these runes and greatly affect the price.
Alternate Name
Matorvai - (Ancient), mostly used by priestesses, monks, and scholars