Agurath

This tradition has deep roots in the past. It is dedicated to celebrating life, survival, and solidarity. The Wild Thalarians hold it in great esteem, cherishing and valuing it as a vital part of their culture. Through this ritual, they honor their resilience and the strong bonds that unite them as a community.

History

The Time Before the Tradition

Long before Agurath became an annual event, the Wild Thalarians lived a life of constant movement, guided by the rhythms of nature and the cycles of the seasons. As nomads, they hunted, foraged, and traveled across the wilderness in loosely connected groups. These early days were harsh and unforgiving, with many perils lurking in the wilds—from fierce beasts and rival tribes to the unforgiving elements.
Survival was always uncertain, and the clans often faced great hardship. It was not uncommon for entire families or groups to be lost to the dangers of nature. Yet, through their endurance and strength, the Wild Thalarians managed to survive, and the clan system began to take shape. The bonds between family and kin grew stronger, and the need for a ritual to honor their survival and unity began to emerge.

The First Agurath: A Ritual of Survival

Legend tells that Agurath was first celebrated many generations ago, during a particularly brutal winter when the Wild Thalarians found themselves facing near annihilation. The weather was colder than any in living memory, and food was scarce. In a desperate bid to preserve their kin and their way of life, the clans of the Thalarians banded together, hunting with determination and sharing whatever they could. They lived on the edge of survival, and many feared they might not make it through the season.
It was during this time, after months of hardship, that the first Agurath was born. According to the elders, it was the Chief of the old clan, a wise leader named Rathar, who called for a gathering. Having seen the toll the harsh winter had taken on his people, Rathar believed the clan’s survival was no mere stroke of luck but a testament to their strength and unity. He declared that, if they survived the winter, the clans would come together at the end of the year to give thanks, to celebrate their endurance, and to reaffirm their bond. This event would mark the end of the year and serve as a reminder of the resilience of the Wild Thalarians. It would also symbolize a turning point—a renewal of hope for the coming seasons.
After long time of hunger, Rathar and his hunters finaly found the wild bears and hunt them down. Thus, the first Agurath took place. In the longhouses of the Rathar's Clan, the survivors gathered to feast on roasted wild boars, sing songs, dance, and tell stories of their ancestors. It was a night of revelry, but also a night of reflection. Through this gathering, they celebrated the survival of the harshest winter they had ever faced and gave thanks to the spirits of nature for their protection.

Execution

Agurath, celebrated on 24th Decrithan, is the Wild Thalarians tradition that marks the end of the year and honors their survival. It begins with preparations as clans gather, hunting wild boars and brewing mead. The central event is the feast, where clan members come together to share food, drink, and stories, celebrating their resilience. The night is filled with dancing, reflecting their vitality and connection to the land. Storytellers recount ancient tales, preserving the culture and wisdom of their ancestors. Finally, the chief and elders perform a ritual offering, blessing the people for the year ahead. Agurath strengthens bonds, reaffirms shared values, and prepares the Wild Thalarians for the challenges of the future.

Participants

Clan leader The clan leader plays a crucial role in the execution of Agurath, as they are responsible for ensuring the longhouse is accessible and welcoming to all clan members. In preparation for the celebration, the leader oversees the opening of the longhouse, ensuring it is properly prepared to accommodate everyone who will attend, including those who have traveled from distant places. The longhouse is filled with warmth and hospitality, serving as the central gathering point for the community.
In addition to preparing the space, the clan leader is responsible for providing the food for the feast. They ensure that enough provisions, such as the roasted boar and other traditional dishes, are available to feed the entire clan. The leader's role is not only to organize the logistics of the celebration but also to symbolize the clan's generosity and unity by making sure everyone has enough to eat and drink, reinforcing the sense of community and shared purpose that is central to the Agurath tradition.
Clan members During Agurath, clan members are expected to bring food and ale to the feast. While the clan leader provides some of the main dishes, each member contributes by bringing their own share, adding to the abundance of the celebration. This act fosters a sense of unity and collective responsibility within the clan.

Observance

The rites of Agurath are observed on a set date, specifically on 24th Decrithan. This date is fixed annually and marks the culmination of the year’s cycle. Agurath typically occurs in the depths of winter, reflecting the Wild Thalarians' connection to the harsh and enduring nature of the cold months. The festival signifies the end of the year, a time to reflect on survival and prepare for the challenges of the coming year. Thus, 24th Decrithan remains a constant date for the rites, celebrated year after year as a moment of reunion, survival, and renewal.

Primary Related Location

Syndaras

Important Locations

• Grastorn Fields
• Krallhage
• Rovashk
• Skallvork
• Skiaga
• The Region

Related Ethnicities

• Wild Thalarians