Raithsfall

When the warmth fails and the days grow short, the time for Raithsfall is drawing near. This three-day holiday is a time to remember the hardships of the past, commemorates the fall of the Raithar Empire, and celebrate freedom and prosperity.

History

Raithsfall began as a simple, one-day remembrance of the anniversary of the Raithar Empire's fall and the founding of Valor. Over time, it grew more elaborate and ritualized, culminating in its current three-day form, complete with pageantry, tournaments, bonfires, unique decorations, and fireworks.

Components and tools

The most popular, must-have decorations for Raithsfall are light-catchers. In more wealthy households, these are often stunning, one-of-a-kind stained glass artworks, hung in the entryway or parlor of the house where any guests will be sure to see. Others may be wooden cutouts, or even paper in poorer households. Whatever the materials, the light-catchers are dragon-shaped silhouettes, with the beast depicted in flight, breathing fire, or both. Perhaps originally meant as a grim reminder of Raithar's horrors, they are now things of beauty and delight.

On the first night, simple and traditional recipes are called for. After that, treats such as spice cakes and special teas are very popular. Many families have certain foods that they make only during Raithsfall, and it is considered quite the mark of esteem if they share one of their holiday recipes with another.

The final must-have item for Raithsfall is a wooden flute. Though families without either a flute or someone skilled at playing it can make do by singing unaccompanied or by joining a close friend or neighbor, the traditional songs are a very important part of the holiday, particularly the first night.

Observance

Fear Night

The first day of Raithsfall is called Fear Night. This is a day of fasting, a day to gather loved ones close, stay inside, and remember your history. Despite the solemn occasion, most families lighten the mood by taking this time to put up their decorations and enjoy a day away from work to spend with one another.

Traditional "working songs" are sung and played, and family stories are told--everything from what their ancestors' lives were like under the Raithar Empire to that time a notorious uncle pulled off the greatest prank of his life. After sunset, a small, traditional meal is served using simple ingredients. Though some can't help elaborating, in theory this is one night where the rich and poor eat exactly alike.

Raithsfall Eve

The second day is Raithsfall Eve. Children wake to presents delivered stealthily to their bedsides. Once the gifts have been received, spice cakes and other treats are made, and by afternoon, everyone starts venturing out of their homes. Bonfires are lit at the edge of town or in any city square large enough to host them, and people gather around the fires to play games, visit with neighbors, and swap treats with their friends.

Pageants and concerts are plentiful, mainly centering around Valor Ascendant and the rebellion against the empire. But the primary attraction of Raithsfall Eve, at least for those in cities large enough to host them, are tournaments. In Albion, this means demonstrations and battles by the Valorian Knights and a youth tournament held to narrow the field of their applicants for that year.

Ascension Day

Finally, Ascension Day: a day for feasting, music, and celebration. Victory Feasts are sure to please any and every appetite, and for those who cannot host such a thing themselves, many temples welcome all comers to their tables. This includes The Valorian Temple where, for one day, the poorest drunkard in Albion may sit beside a distinguished knight, and both can eat their fill.

For those who make their own Victory Feast, multiple members of the family may spend the entire day on it (as well as much of the previous two days on preparations), and woe betide any who interferes with their work. Music can include more work songs, but also includes more modern music and even additional instruments where available. Again, public concerts abound, as well as triumphant retellings of Valor's victory and ascension, and the destruction of Raitharis.

Known To

Common Knowledge