The Banquets of Horenhall High Society
A common practice among high ranking families and socialites of Horenhall and the Bjargan Mountain region. Although originating in the Horen Folk traditions of altruism, many other sapients living among and around the Bjargan mountains have taken up the custom in similar fashion as well. Among the social elite, banquets have become an important factor in the incredibly dynamic political landscape of the Bjargan Region. Each social event, be it a ball or banquet, attempts to out do the last. Ornate decorations of sculptures of ice and precious minerals are often commissioned especially for the event. The greater display of wealth, the more power the family, corporation, or socialite is perceived to have to give away in such measures. This also must by done with a certain amount of subtly as too gaudy of demonstrations of wealth are pompous. Out doing your political rivals by too much often has the opposite of the intended effect.
History
The banquet tradition can be best understood in the cultural context of the city of Horenhall, and the Horen Folk themselves that both place great importance on making good investments. This social mandate has been interpreted by Horen Folk as a dictation of paradigm and on how to conduct oneself in a society that values the greater good of the community over personal achievement. While the accumulation of wealth and economic prosperity are still both well regarded, unchecked greed and the unnecessary hording of money is frowned upon. Therefore, the greatest investment to be made for Horen Folk is back into their community. Spending money on the less fortunate and freely giving away goods and services to those who cannot afford it are also highly valued. However the double side of this charity is the competition between social elites.
Participants
The Banquet tradition itself originated with long, open tables set up in market centers and available for all to enjoy. This still infrequently occurs, but to a much lesser extent than in generations past. The banquets of High Horenhall society are by invitation only.
Observance
The City of Horenhall holds an official feasting holiday to celebrate the spring planting of crops, which follow a similar ethos of demonstrations of generosity. However the banquets held by high ranking citizens of Horenhall are held throughout the year for a variety of purposes. To signify a child's passing into adulthood, birthdays, weddings, marriages, and death rituals are all examples of traditions that all share the commonality of the abundance of sharing of food.
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