Wind offerings for a quiet sea Tradition / Ritual in 13 | World Anvil

Wind offerings for a quiet sea

It is a tradition amongst halfling seafarers to go to the nearest cliff or windy area close to the port where their vessels will depart from, and throw offerings into the wind. This is done with hopes of getting in the good graces of both gods and creatures like the air mephits which could make travel dangerous.  

A family tradition

Since many halfling clans travel together into the sea and spend significant amounts of time in the sea, it is important that all family members provide offerings.   Babies and toddlers are usually given a bean or two, however much their tiny fists can hold. Often making sure they don't swallow it and drop it is the biggest challenge of the day.   Small children usually offer flowers (or even grass blades) that they collect on the way to the offering area. Older children often collect (and sometimes dry) flower petals in advance. It is a beautiful moment when all the older children throw their petals into the air. It is considered a sign of good luck or acceptance of the offerings if the petals create swirls or other intricate movements in the air.   Teenagers are given free will over their offerings; the only time a halfling will get this liberty.   Adults' most common offering is their own blood, cast into the wind. Often, if soothsayers have informed the clan of bad omens, sacrifices will also include large amounts of grain, the blood of flying animals (kept alive until the offering), and intricate ribbons of colourful clothing. Finding these ribbons of colourful clothing during one's travel is an unlucky sign. It is often interpreted as one's past actions against the winds catching up to them.

Cover image: by Stefan Keller

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