Oaths-Day
The 'Oaths-day' is actually two weeks of holidays, culminating in the Day of Remembering Oaths. The first two weeks leading into the day are dedicated to travel, and to writing a small poem of what the Oath that was taken is, and how it will reflect upon them. Travelers often go in groups, to discourage bandits from attempting an attack, and will sometimes spread small tales of those that they plan to meet with. Many are seen, carrying bottles of wine and newly sharpened blades.
Preparations are made, and no matter what the nature of the Oath was, all are excited to see the people, or person that they are waiting for. Many carry blades, to show that those which have bled for them need not worry about their safety in the coming year. Others carry their weapons, making peace within this mortal realm, before awaiting those whom they have sworn to kill. Siblings, whether of blood or by kindred spirits, speak of the old days, and the better years. They often gather around ancient trees, where they have had made a pact with one another.
Lonely figures are a common sight, drinking alone and making toasts to the spirits of the dead, and those that could not visit quickly enough.
History
The days celebrating the oaths originated from the time that magic was taken from the people. A hollow, emptiness was felt in the hearts of all, and relatively few knew what the true cause was. A common belief was spread, that people had become too self serving, and self invested to appreciate those around them, and as a phenomenon, the gods had punished them for that.
So it was that the first Oaths-days were celebrated. Old friends would meet in the places that are not far from where thier oaths and bonds were forged. This caught on quickly with wandering poets, who wrote many things about this. Soon, many joined in, following their own paths.
Participants
Do's
Always arrive a little early, but avoid visiting until after the Oaths-Day.
It is wise to write a small poem, or have a written explanation of why you wish to come there. If something bad happens, it can be delivered to the person that was met up.
If someone is already where you made your oath, finding a nearby spot is acceptable. While a meeting spot is important, but never more important than another persons honor.
Don'ts
Do not approach someone who is alone, until after the person leaves.
Do not bring those that you see often (more than once a year) to the Oaths.
Do not come for a reason that was not specified by both parties.
Always arrive a little early, but avoid visiting until after the Oaths-Day.
It is wise to write a small poem, or have a written explanation of why you wish to come there. If something bad happens, it can be delivered to the person that was met up.
If someone is already where you made your oath, finding a nearby spot is acceptable. While a meeting spot is important, but never more important than another persons honor.
Don'ts
Do not approach someone who is alone, until after the person leaves.
Do not bring those that you see often (more than once a year) to the Oaths.
Do not come for a reason that was not specified by both parties.
There's a lot hinted at in this article, but "before awaiting those whom they have sworn to kill" really got my attention! What sort of oaths are they making???
Thanks for the comment! I was inspired to write the article after talking with an old coworker for the first time in a long time. Most oaths are closely related to self-preservation and personal and financial growth, so they are not fully the same person when they meet again. I think that many oaths and agreements are made for both parties to get their affairs in order before they work together to resolve a much bigger issue in the future!