Toll for the Dead
"Best pay the toll for the dead, lest the reaper come for you." ~ Verdor Sensibilities Vol. 1
The Verdor are often regarded as strange for their many supersitions and a great many of their traditions but the Toll of the Dead is by far considered the strangest. Despite this it is still one of the most actively followed traditions among them. Considered a massive faux pas if not followed and also very, very bad luck.
History
There isn't a clear origin to when the tradition was adopted but it is believed to have been linked ot a pandemic that hit the Verdor in ancient times. The pandemic had a high mortality rate and so graveyards became semi-common meeting areas as loved ones were laid to rest and mourned. It is believed by some that the tolls were put in place by the churhes to limit visitors and to pay for the services and maintence that was needed to keep up with the death rate. Whether or not that is true a supersition took root that if you didn't pay the dead, then you would be next.
Execution
There are traditionally donation plates at every grave for the family of the desceased to pay their loved one. There is no set amount required by the tradition but it is believed bad luck to leave less than a modest sum. Insense is also lit during this practice as a way to show respect and formality in the exchange.
Components and tools
Insence and money are the only required items for observance of this tradion. The insense however is not of any spefic scent instead being something that the dead would have liked while alive.
Observance
This is done during any and all visits to see one's loved ones. Especially so on the aniversary of their passing where a larger amount is expected to be left. Why this is isn't exactly known as the Verdor don't often speak of these things.
Comments