Starlight Serenade

History

Originally a tradition of the Wildwood Elves and their worship of Davyanka - The Starmother the Starlight Serenade was spread across the continent during the time of the Orbirian Empire mainly by the partially nomadic halfelven population. While the different star observatories sprung up, the interest in the nightsky and the worship of Davyanka became wide-know, well-liked and accepted. As such the festival has remained in many cultures, though there are many slightly different versions of it. While it is a yearly holiday in most lands, the Wildwood Elves often repeat the ritual one to two times a month - unorganized and unplanned little events done in smaller groups of friends or family, whenever the stars are very prominent.

Execution

Once during the middle of winter, either around the 40th of Daiwan or around the 16th of Zahan (depending on the weather) the followers of Davyanka meet at the outskirts of town close to the local tower of her worship, and spend a full night observing the night sky. In the colder locations, there are usually cans of hot tea, soup and blankets offered by the priests and clerics, though fires are kept as small as possible. Groups arrange themselves along the different images of the Starmap of Xyvener
During the early night it is very common for groups to start singing songs to the stars. Many of the songs are just common chants of her name and praising her beauty, others are harmonies written by talented bards about the power of hope and believes, of freedom and joy found in little things. Towards the shores the songs turn more similar to sea shanties.
Later through the night, people will start sharing dreams and hopes, randomly standing up an calling to the night, or secretly whisper it to the next person. It is common to end this with asking the Starmother for a beacon of light to guide the way.
In case that the night sky is graced with a shooting star during the ceremony, that is taken as a very strong sign of Davyanka's approval, and every person that spots one is considered blessed by her.
Though originally very much based in religion there are many participants these days, who join the festivities without religious motivation (just for the joy of it). and in line with Davyanky's teaching, this spreading of passion for life is very much encouraged, even if it may not celebrate her directly.

Date: 40th of Daiwan Season: Autumn Deities: Davyanka - The Starmother  Location: Trian (orig. Woodelven?)