Xedes' Wake (ˈZee-Deez Wayk)

The origins of Xedes' Wake go back ages, to a time when we did not have as much knowledge as we do now. Today, we know that the Moon occasionally passes in front of the Sun in her cyclical wanderings, and can even predict such an occasion. Back then, it must have been a frightening thing to see the Sun disappear like that. Over time, the myth has been passed down to us of the warring between Xedes and Voraldir, and the observance of this phenomenon has become a time of ritual and feasting.
The actual celebration of a Xedes' Wake is a fine thing to see. Folk come to their temples dressed in their finest mourning attire, and sit outside where they can see. When the sun begins to disappear, there is much wailing and mourning, and covering one's face with ashes, as if Xedes truly is dying. The priests retell the myth, and laments are sung. This continues through out the eclipse, or Wake, until the sun is fully visible again. Then the people give a shout of joy, and discard their mourning robes to reveal festival finery underneath. Bowls of wash water appear, to remove the ash smudges. Tables are brought out, full of food and drink, often items that are round, or yellow in color, and the rest of the day (and often the night) is spent in celebration and dancing, and giving thanks to both Xedes and Nytris for the gift of light. Both halves of the ritual are often quite cathartic, and now people look forward to an eclipse, rather than dread it.

History

The tradition began when people truly were fearful that Xeitho was dying, and watched in anxious mourning, fearing the Gods had deserted them. Over time, records would show that these eclipses happened from time to time, and were not the end of Xedes. Still, the practice of gathering to mourn, and then celebrate, was quite popular, and the priests made it a ritual holiday. Today, we can actually predict when an eclipse will take place, and as a result, the gatherings have gotten more elaborate and enjoyable, as there is time to plan. Often, people will celebrate a Xedes' Wake even if clouds obscure it, with a temple acolyte keeping time with an hourglass.

Execution

The Death of Xedes:

• People dress in mourning robes
• The attendants weep, wail, and cover their faces in ash at the death of Xedes
• Laments are sung, prayers and myths read

The Return:

• Robes are removed to show festival clothing
• Ashes are washed away
• The triumph of Xedes is celebrated with feasting and dancing
  

Components and tools

• Ashes
• Mourning robes
• Musical instruments
• Foods that signify Xeitho
• Drinks
  

Participants

Xedes' Wake is a communal event. Although priests may take roles in reading myths and prayers, or leading laments, the grieving choices are entirely up to those who attend.

Observance

Every full eclipse (and in some places, partial ones) of Xeitho

How Xedes Overcame Voraldir

Voraldir stormed into Ocith one day in stern anger, and demanded Xedes' throne. 'My power far outweighs yours! I rule death, itself. I can kill anything, even you, a God! Why should I not rule Ocith?' he proclaimed. Xedes was enraged, and insisted Voraldir prove his strength. And thus the two gods did wrestle, and fight, and war all across Ocith, causing great consternation amongst their kin. And as they fought, the sun grew dim, for truly, Xedes' strength was waning, until it seemed that Voraldir would not only win, but would even kill Xedes himself. Then, at the moment most dark, when Xedes lay as if dead, Nytris shed two perfect tears, and they became pearls. And the magic in those pearls restored the God of Xeitho. Xedes took a breath, then another, and slowly began to battle back his sibling, until the light returned, and Xedes stood victorious. And he said, 'Go back to Rahuth, and be content with your realm, and trouble me no more, for I say that no God shall ever be slain, not even you.' Then Voraldir hung his head, and departed, and all the Gods in Ocith celebrated the returning of Xeitho, the seat of Xedes' power.