Yorm'ellắ

The Gathering Rite

Also known as the Gathering Rite, Yorm'ellắ is a tradition amongst the elvish people to bring back something of use or importance back to their home settlement. Previously, it was how an Elf would be allowed to choose their adult name, but times have changed. What was once required for all elves, when their numbers were greater. The Yorm'ellắ can no longer be required since so many elves were lost in their sundering, and the adolecents are needed to help rebuild. Some elders of the elvish enclaves actually wish to forbid younger elves in taking up the Gathering Rite, believeing that they are in too weak of a state to be allowign their youths enter a dangerous world. Yet, the elvish spirit is not one to be tamed and many still take the journey after feeling that they have done their duty to home.

History

With the elves' journey through the Fae Lands, much of their collective memory and history has been lost. They know not how long they have held on to the tradition of Yorm'ellắ, though they know it was started by High Magister Klind'alon. It used to be for bringing back new magical theory, history, natural discovery, or even new ways of thinking. However, now with the elves diminished state and trying to establish a home in Elturia, those that undertake the journey are encouraged to bring back natural resources or other ways of making their homes more stable.

Observance

The conclusion of a Yorm'ellắ is cause for great celebreation among the elvish people, especially in the current age when there are so few elves left. The elf that returns provides a short presentation or demonstration of what it is they have brought back home to the elder council and other members of the enclave that are available. The presentation includes why the discovery is important for thier people, their journey, as well as what they have learned about the world or themselves. The elders will then each take a full day to contemplate what they have heard. In the meantime, there are festivals and feasts celebrating the returning elf.

When a full day has passed the elders will gather with the returning elf in a public naming ceremony. Each elder will provide what they believe is a suitable name. After each name is presented, the elf in question will then choose thier new name from the names provided. Some cultures of elves take the name as their first, others as a surname, or even a title. It varies from culture to culture.