Kathar Penym a-Nur (Hidden Face of the Moon)
Kathar Penym a-Nur is the New Moon festival of the Trivian Folk celebrated every month on the new moon. Often shorthanded as Kathar Pen in Aernadael.
History
The Festival of Kathar Penym a-Nur was given by the Luminary Eleleth to Mother Lilith after she fled the garden of the Son of Chaos. Adnot, her counterpart in the garden, searched for her, and Eleleth guided Lilith to a cave on the night of the new moon to hide. Adnot couldn't find her, and traveled off in another direction.
On the next new moon she met Qayin who fled into the land of Nod, marked with the sign of death. Lilith took pity on Qayin offered her aid to the young man whose blood lust threatened to control him. She gave him a simple meal of bread and salt, which calmed him brought him to his senses. Eleleth explained that he was a Srikesh (Stryx), an immortal cursed with a thirst for blood.
Lilith took pity on Qayin, and took him under her wing.
Eleleth proclaimed that the New Moon would not only mark the start of a new month, but a day to remember and celebrate their sanctuary from those who wished them harm and that they are a refuge to those in need.
Sweet children of the night, in this world you will be hunted and outcasts. People fear what they do not understand, and far too many will choose not to understand you, but remember always, especially when the moon hides his face, that you are not alone. Fate and Providence brought you to this sanctuary and will guide you to refuge in your times of need. Never neglect to return this kindness to others, for as you have received, so shall you give, never returning hate for cruelty lest you become worse than those who seek to do you harm. Raise you cup to the hidden moon and dance for you are always with your people, no matter the distance between you.And so it is that the tradition of the Festival of the New Moon has come down to this day.
Execution
The festival begins with near sundown with the community receiving the blessing of the [Mother Soteria. All are welcome to receive this blessing, regardless of faith or ethnicity. Every family is allowed to take a set of Barukin Candles from the shrine to light in their homes, and welcome in the Shekhan, the Divine Presence.
Celebrations are held within the home and participating fetehouses. Some are marked by larger communal festivities depending on local tradition.
Components and tools
The Barukin Candles are an essential part of the ceremony. Two tapered candles, one white in honor of Mother Lilith who gave refuge, and one black candle in honor of Brother Qayin who received sanctuary. Lotus Tree Flower Mead is always served.
Bread of Heaven, a sweet, enchanted cake made with Manna is shared as a sign of companionship. Other traditional foods are:
- Puck Pies, which are enchanted to taste like the eater's favorite pie
- Elf Biscuits, which allow people to jump astounding distances while landing feather light on the ground.
- Nixie Cakes, rich sweet cookies that make the eaters sparkle and shine and leave glittering trails of light as they movie.
Observance
Kathar Pen is celebrated with food, dancing, and as much laughter and joy as the community can muster.
Related Ethnicities
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