Ritual of Unity

During the first moonlit night of the cycle, in the heart of the Wild Lands, where the air is filled with the scent of blooming nightflowers and the gentle rustle of leaves, a ritual is performed. The Underlings gather around the ancient Mother Tree, its branches stretching wide like a protective embrace.
This is the Ritual of Unity, a cherished tradition that brings comfort and strengthens the bonds of family and community. As the silver moon rises high, casting a soft glow over the clearing, the Underlings begin their preparations.

Step 1: The Gathering

Underlings of all ages and kinds come together, bringing with them small tokens of their daily lives—feathers, stones, leaves, and flowers. These items are placed in a circle around the base of the Bopu tree, symbolizing the unity and diversity of their community.

Step 2: The Sharing of Stories

Elders and younglings alike take turns sharing stories of their ancestors, their adventures, and the lessons they’ve learned. The air is filled with laughter, gasps, and the occasional tear, as each tale weaves a thread into the rich tapestry of their shared history.

Step 3: The Song of One

As the stories come to a close, a hush falls over the gathering. The eldest Underling, with a voice as gentle as the breeze, begins to sing the Song of One. The melody is soft and soothing, carrying the words of unity and love through the night air. One by one, the Underlings join in, their voices blending harmoniously.
Song of One
(Verse 1)
In the heart of the Wild Lands, where the rivers run free,
Underlings gather 'neath the old Bopu tree.
With paws and claws, and wings that soar high,
Together we stand, under one sky.

(Chorus)
We are one, oh, we are one,
Bound by love, like the moon and the sun.
Through the valleys and the hills, our hearts beat as one,
In the Song of One, our journey’s begun.

(Verse 2)
From the dens of the foxes to the nests in the trees,
We share our stories with the whispering breeze.
Bopu’s voice, so gentle and wise,
Guides us through the night, under starlit skies.

(Chorus)
We are one, oh, we are one,
Bound by love, like the moon and the sun.
Through the valleys and the hills, our hearts beat as one,
In the Song of One, our journey’s begun.

(Bridge)
When the storms rage and shadows fall,
We find strength in each other, standing tall.
With every step, with every breath,
We honor our bonds, until our last breath.

(Chorus)
We are one, oh, we are one,
Bound by love, like the moon and the sun.
Through the valleys and the hills, our hearts beat as one,
In the Song of One, our journey’s begun.

(Outro)
So let the Song of One echo far and wide,
A melody of love, our eternal guide.
In the Wild Lands, where our spirits run free,
Together forever, as family.

Step 4: The Dance of Light

As the song reaches its crescendo, the Underlings light small lanterns made from hollowed gourds and filled with fireflies. They dance in a circle around the Bopu tree, the lanterns casting a warm, flickering light that chases away the shadows. The dance is joyous and free, a celebration of their unity and the love that binds them.

Step 5: The Embrace of Silence

Finally, the dance slows, and the Underlings come together in a close circle, holding hands, wings, or paws. They stand in silence, feeling the presence of each other and the strength of their bonds. The silence is comforting, a reminder that they are never alone.
As the ritual comes to an end, the Underlings disperse, their hearts filled with the warmth of family and the knowledge that, no matter what challenges they face, they are united by love and the Song of One.