The morning sun bathed the village of Brighthollow in a golden glow, illuminating the bustling preparations for the Ceremony of Adulthood. The village square was adorned with vibrant flowers, colorful banners, and the sacred symbols of Ithila and the Elder Gods. The air was filled with a sense of anticipation and joy as families and friends gathered to celebrate this significant milestone.

For the people of Aladria, and indeed for most of the Free Peoples, the age of consent and adulthood was 16. Today, Seum Hartwood and several other village children would be making the transition from childhood to adulthood. The Ceremony of Adulthood is a deeply meaningful event that emphasizes the values of responsibility, community, and spiritual connection. It marks the beginning of a new chapter in the lives of the young adults, acknowledging their growth and their readiness to contribute to the world of Erelos. The ceremony reinforces the bonds between individuals and their community, celebrating the shared journey of life and the divine guidance of the Elder Gods.

The Ceremony of Adulthood is a profound and joyous rite of passage celebrated throughout Erelos when children reach the age of 16. This ceremony marks the transition from childhood to adulthood, symbolizing the acceptance of new responsibilities and the recognition of one's place within the community. Each region has its unique traditions, but certain elements are common across the land.

Preparation

Community Involvement:

• Family and Friends: The families of those coming of age, along with friends and community members, gather to prepare for the ceremony. Homes and public spaces are decorated with flowers, colorful banners, and symbols of the Elder Gods.
• Crafting Personal Tokens: In the weeks leading up to the ceremony, each young adult crafts or receives a personal token representing their chosen path or profession. These tokens vary widely, from a blacksmith's hammer to a scholar's quill, and are worn during the ceremony.

The Ceremony

Location:

• Central Gathering Place: The ceremony typically takes place in a central gathering area, such as a village square, temple courtyard, or a sacred natural site. This location is chosen for its significance and its ability to accommodate the entire community.

Opening Ritual:

• Invocation of the Elder Gods: The ceremony begins with an invocation of the Elder Gods. Priests or community leaders recite prayers and offer blessings, invoking the protection and guidance of Ithila, The One Above All, and the other Elder Gods.
• Lighting the Sacred Fire: A sacred fire is lit at the center of the gathering. This fire symbolizes the divine light of Ithila and the illumination of the path to adulthood.

Procession:

• Entrance of the Young Adults: The young adults, dressed in ceremonial attire, process into the gathering space. They carry their personal tokens and are often accompanied by family members who offer words of encouragement and pride.
• Circle of Unity: The young adults form a circle around the sacred fire, holding hands to symbolize unity and the interconnectedness of the community.

Declaration of Intent:

• Individual Declarations: Each young adult steps forward to declare their chosen path or profession. They speak of their dreams, goals, and the ways they intend to contribute to the community. These declarations are made before the assembled crowd, affirming their commitment to their future roles.

Ritual of the Elements:

• Blessings of the Four Elements: Representatives of the community, often elders or leaders, bless the young adults with the four elements—earth, water, fire, and air. Each element symbolizes a different aspect of life and the qualities needed for adulthood:
• Earth: Stability and strength, symbolized by a handful of soil or a stone.
• Water: Purity and adaptability, symbolized by a sprinkle of water or a small vessel.
• Fire: Passion and courage, symbolized by a candle or a touch of the sacred flame.
• Air: Wisdom and freedom, symbolized by a feather or a breath of incense smoke.

Receiving the Insignia:

• Presentation of Insignias: Each young adult receives an insignia or amulet representing their connection to the Elder Gods and their new status as adults. This insignia is often a pendant or bracelet bearing the symbol of Ithila or their chosen path.
• Words of Wisdom: Elders and leaders impart words of wisdom and advice, drawing from their own experiences and the teachings of the Elder Gods.

Closing Ritual:

• Communal Feast: The ceremony concludes with a communal feast, celebrating the young adults and their transition to adulthood. The feast includes food, music, dancing, and storytelling, fostering a sense of unity and joy within the community.
• Fireworks or Lantern Release: In some regions, the ceremony ends with a display of fireworks or the release of lanterns into the sky, symbolizing the bright futures and aspirations of the new adults.

Seum stood in front of the mirror in his small room at the temple, adjusting the ceremonial robes he had been given. The robes were a deep blue, embroidered with silver threads depicting the symbols of the Elder Gods. Around his neck, he wore the insignia of Ithila, a gift from Mistress Thalira Davenwood.

Garon entered the room, dressed in similar attire. "You ready, Seum? Today's a big day."

Seum took a deep breath and nodded. "Yeah, I'm ready. It's hard to believe I'm finally here."

Garon clapped him on the back. "You've worked hard for this, Seum. Your parents would be so proud."

Seum smiled, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. "Thanks! Let's do this."

The two friends joined the procession of young adults making their way to the village square. The sacred fire burned brightly at the center of the gathering, surrounded by the people of Brighthollow. At the front of the crowd stood Jareth Thornfield, the Guard Captain who had become a surrogate father figure to Seum since his parents' deaths.

As the young adults formed a circle around the sacred fire, Mistress Thalira Davenwood stepped forward to begin the ceremony. Her silver hair gleamed in the sunlight, and her voice carried with authority and warmth.

"Today, we gather to celebrate the transition from childhood to adulthood," she began. "Each of you stands here as a testament to your hard work, your dedication, and your readiness to embrace the responsibilities of adulthood. The Elder Gods smile upon you and guide your steps."

One by one, the young adults stepped forward to declare their chosen paths. Some announced their intent to become craftsmen, others to join the village guard, and still others to pursue various trades and professions.

When it was Seum's turn, he stepped forward with confidence. "I, Seum Hartwood, declare my intent to serve as a Priest of Ithila. I dedicate my life to the teachings of the Elder Gods and the service of our community."

The crowd murmured with approval, and Mistress Davenwood smiled proudly. "Seum, your commitment to the divine and to the people of Brighthollow is commendable. May the blessings of Ithila guide you always."

After the declarations, the representatives of the community blessed the young adults with the four elements: earth, water, fire, and air. Each blessing was accompanied by words of wisdom and encouragement.

Finally, Jareth Thornfield, Guard Captain of the village stepped forward, his presence commanding respect. He presented each young adult with their insignia and offered words of guidance. When he reached Seum, he placed a hand on his shoulder.

"Seum, you have shown great strength and dedication," Jareth said. "Your parents would be proud of the man you have become. Remember that you are never alone. Your community stands with you, and I stand with you."

Seum felt a lump in his throat and nodded. "Thank you, Jareth. I won't let you down."

The ceremony concluded with a communal feast, filled with laughter, music, and dancing. The sense of unity and celebration was palpable as the villagers came together to honor their new adults.

As the sun set, the young adults were gathered by representatives of The Chancel, the great governing body of the Free Peoples of Erelos. Each child was registered and their professions declared, ensuring that their contributions to society were recognized and supported.

Seum felt a deep sense of fulfillment and purpose as he stood among his friends and community. The journey ahead was uncertain, but he knew he was ready to face it with the support of those who cared for him.

As the night drew to a close, Seum and Garon stood by the sacred fire, reflecting on the day's events.

"You did it, Seum," Garon said with a grin. "We're adults now."

Seum smiled, feeling a sense of pride and anticipation. "Yeah, we did. And this is just the beginning."

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the celebration of Ceremony of Adulthood began to wind down. The village square, which had been alive with music, laughter, and joyous chatter, now held a serene and contented atmosphere. Families and friends offered their congratulations to Seum and the other young adults, sharing excited banter about their future roles and responsibilities.

Jareth Thornfield approached Seum, a proud smile on his face. "Well done, Seum. You've earned this day. The path you've chosen is noble and important."

Seum nodded, feeling a warm glow of pride. "Thank you. Your support means so much to me. I feel like you saved me when I was so alone. You are my family and I love you a lot!"

Garon, standing beside Seum, couldn't contain his excitement. "Can you believe it, Seum? We're adults now! Think of all the new tasks and adventures we'll have!"

Seum laughed, his heart light. "I know. It's almost overwhelming, but in a good way. I can't wait to get started."

As the time approached Seum's actual birth time, the bell for evening prayers at the temple rang out, calling the faithful to the chapel. Because of the excitement of the day, Garon asked for permission to join in the evening prayer time, a request that was readily granted.

"Mind if I join you, Seum?" Garon asked. "For some reason I feel like I need to be part of this today."

Seum smiled warmly. "Of course, Garon. It wouldn't feel right without you beside me."

The chapel was a place of tranquility and reverence, its stone walls echoing with the whispered prayers of monks, priests, and acolytes.  Garon knelt and Seum assumed his meditation pose side by side, the familiar ritual providing a comforting sense of continuity.

As the prayers began, a serene silence enveloped the room. The flickering candlelight cast gentle shadows on the faces of those gathered, each person lost in their own communion with the divine.

Suddenly, something was definitely different.  The candle flams all lowered.  There was an odd pressure in the air.  Then a beautiful glow began to surround Seum. The air shimmered with an ethereal light, and the chapel was filled with a sense of awe and wonder. The Erelight of Ithila enveloped Seum, casting a radiant glow that bathed the entire room.

The attendees, students, acolytes, monks, and priests gasped in amazement, their prayers momentarily forgotten as they watched the extraordinary event unfold. Seum, still in his meditation position, began to rise into the air, his body weightless and serene.

Garon's eyes widened in shock and awe. "Seum... what’s happening?" But Seum didn't really hear him.

Seum's eyes opened, blazing with white light. His voice, no longer his own, prepared to speak with a divine voice. The chapel was filled with sparkling lights and shafts of multi-colored brilliance, pulsing with an otherworldly energy as though in preparation for something wondrous.

The gathered faithful, children, acolytes and priests, could only watch in silent reverence as Seum floated above the floor. The air was thick with the feeling of anticipation, each moment stretching out as they waited for the holy words that would soon be spoken.

As the anticipation reached its peak, Seum, surrounded by the dazzling glow of light, almost like bursts of lightening, prepared to deliver a message that would resonate throughout the temple and beyond. The divine presence was palpable, and everyone present knew that they were witnessing a moment of profound significance.

The chapel was bathed in the radiant glow of Ithila's Erelight, casting a celestial brilliance over the gathered faithful. Chief Priest Arlen, sensing the magnitude of the moment, signaled to the scribes. The scribes, positioned with quills and parchment, prepared to record every word and happening with meticulous care.

Seum, still suspended in the air and enveloped in divine light, began to speak. The voice from him resonated with a power and clarity that was not his own, but many voices together was that of Holy Ithila, The One Above All.

"Behold, the time has come for the great prophecies to be revealed. I am Ithila, The One, The Mother of All, you are all my beloved children, and this is my prophet whom I have chosen.  Attend to his words for he speaks in My Name. Through him I shall speak to you of things that were, things that are, things that are yet to be and of my Holy Children, the Elder Gods of Good."

The scribes' quills moved swiftly, capturing each word as Seum continued.

"Afwai, The Bringer of Peace, whose light brings harmony and solace to troubled hearts. Ladrinae, The Bringer of Faith, who strengthens the bonds of belief and devotion. Thun, The Bringer of Strength, who grants resilience and courage to stand against darkness. Nathar, The Bringer of Healing, who restores and mends that which is broken. Yohua, The Bringer of Truth, who reveals all that is hidden and guides with clarity. Daggua, The Bringer of Wisdom, whose insight illuminates the path of righteousness. All await this day of revelation."

Seum's voice grew more emphatic as he spoke the prophecy. "Know this my children: the Great Line of Queens has a living heir. At the proper time, the Queen shall be revealed and companions yet to be chosen shall assist her return to the throne of Erelos and The Chancel, bringing the return of balance and justice."

The room was filled with gasps of awe and wonder, the significance of the revelation sinking in. Seum continued, the light around him pulsing, his voice unwavering.

"In the Elven forests of Aston, a prophet arises. He shall come to the Temple of Ithila and there proclaim the birth of the Savior of Erelos, heralding a new dawn of hope for all the free peoples."

Seum paused, allowing the weight of the words to settle, before speaking again. "This very night, on the Isle of Kuvek, a holy miracle has occurred among the people of my Son, Holy Ladrinae. Holy Ladrinae who has never had a disciple or a prophet has chosen a Disciple -- the First Disciple. His name is Dural, and he shall forge that which was in pieces and move the immovable."

The scribes continued to write fervently as Seum's voice filled the chapel. "In Bendagga, Holy Daggua shall raise an oracle to guide you to the heart of evil, shedding light where there has been only darkness."

Seum paused briefly, then spoke with a voice filled with healing promise. "In Nathindar, Holy Nathar shall heal what has been torn asunder, and the Ancient Ones shall again walk Erelos, restoring what was."

Another pause, and Seum’s voice took on a tone of revelation. "In Eterra, Holy Yohua shall light the way, and the truth shall blaze forth from its hidden tomb, revealing secrets long buried."

The chapel was silent, every person present holding their breath, feeling the gravity of the divine messages. Then, with a voice filled with ancient mystery, Seum spoke of the most enigmatic prophecy of the evening.

"And now, hear of My grief, My missing child held back by evil, chaos and strife, my child suffering long in the grasp of evil, The Missing One long awaited. The abbey of evil, now overrun, shall be freed. The miracle of creation shall recover its strength and its path will be clear so that the blessing can proceed as I ordained, and The Missing One shall arise. Long faded into legend, when I called My Holy Children into being, the child that did not appear. Yet, one day soon, The Missing One shall rise and loose the bonds on the task of holy creation which was stalled."

As Seum uttered these final words, the light surrounding him grew even more intense, filling the chapel with a warmth and radiance that seemed to touch the deepest part of every soul present. The scribes' hands trembled as they recorded the profound message, understanding its significance. Gasps from all present were frequent.

Seum slowly descended to the ground, the divine light gradually fading. His eyes returned to their normal blue, and he knelt on the chapel floor, exhausted but unharmed. The chapel remained silent, the sacred moment hanging in the air like a tangible presence.

Chief Priest Arlen stepped forward, his voice filled with reverence and awe. "We have witnessed a divine revelation. Ithila has spoken through Seum, guiding us with her wisdom and prophecies. And She has chosen Seum as her Prophet. Let us hold these things in our hearts and treasure them as we prepare for the times to come."

Garon, still kneeling beside Seum, placed a supportive hand on his friend's shoulder. "Seum, that was ... incredible. Are you okay?"

Seum nodded slowly, blinking as though waking from sleep, his voice hoarse but steady. "I ... I think so. It felt like... I was listening and speaking for someone else.  But my body was not here."

The acolytes, monks, and priests slowly rose, their expressions a mixture of awe and determination. The scribes completed their work, their records ensuring that the divine message would be preserved for all time.

The chapel slowly returned to its usual quiet, though the air remained charged with the energy of the extraordinary event. It had been hundreds of years since anyone had uttered a prophecy, and now, in one night, there were several. The weight of these revelations hung heavily over the congregation.

Seum struggled to stand, his legs wobbly as if he had run a great distance. His throat felt parched, and his body ached with a deep exhaustion. Garon quickly moved to support him, his concern evident.

"Here, buddy, lean on me," Garon said, helping his friend to his feet.

Chief Priest Arlen approached, his face a mixture of awe and concern. "Seum, you have been through a great ordeal. How do you feel?"

Seum took a deep breath, his voice shaky. "I... I feel like I’ve been somewhere else, in a place I can't even begin to describe with something present that I did not underestand. It was overwhelming, yet at the same time warm and comforting."

Arlen nodded, understanding the enormity of what Seum had experienced. "Come, let's get you some water and a place to rest. You’ve had quite a night."

As they moved towards the side of the chapel, one of the monks handed Seum a cup of water. Seum drank deeply, the cool liquid soothing his parched throat. He leaned heavily on Garon, stumbling as they walked, his body still trembling from exhaustion and the intensity of the experience.

Garon looked at Seum with a mixture of admiration and worry. "You were incredible, Seum. I've never seen anything like that. Are you sure you're okay?"

Seum nodded slowly, his strength gradually returning. "I think so. It’s just... everything feels different now. Like I've touched something beyond this world. When I look at people I see something ... sort of different."

Chief Priest Arlen gestured for them to sit on a nearby bench. "We are going to want to talk about that.  Rest here for a moment. We need to discuss what happened, but first, you need to regain your strength."

As Seum sat, he felt the residual energy of the Erelight still pulsing faintly within him. The chapel was now filled with whispers and conversations as the monks, priests, and acolytes processed the prophecies they had just heard.

One of the senior scribes approached, holding the parchment filled with the recorded prophecies. "Chief Priest Arlen, we have documented every word and detail. This is a momentous occasion, one that will shape our future and the future of the entire world for generations to come."

Arlen took the parchment, his eyes scanning the sacred words. "Thank you. This will need to be shared with the leaders of the Chancel as well as all the High Priests of every Elder God over the world. This will be preserved in our archives. The significance of these prophecies cannot be overstated."

Turning back to Seum, Arlen spoke gently. "Seum, the words you spoke tonight will change the course of history. The prophecies of Holy Ithila have given us guidance and purpose. We must prepare for what is to come."

Seum nodded, the weight of the responsibility settling over him. "I understand, Chief Priest. I was told what I must do and I will do whatever I can to help."

Arlen placed a reassuring hand on Seum's shoulder. "You have already done more than anyone could ask. For now, rest and recover. We will begin to make plans and preparations based on the prophecies."

Garon squeezed Seum's hand, his expression serious but supportive. "Whatever comes next, we’ll face it side by side."

Seum smiled weakly, grateful for his friend's unwavering support. "Thank you, Garon.  Please, I don't think I can do this without you.  Actually, I don't think I am supposed to do this without you."

As the night wore on, the chapel slowly emptied, leaving only a few monks and priests to watch over Seum. The words of the prophecies echoed in their minds, filling them with a sense of urgency and determination.

The next steps would involve informing the Chancel and the other temples, preparing for the arrival of "a prophet", and investigating the miracle on the Isle of Kuvek. The mention of Dural, the chosen First Disciple of Ladrinae, and the upcoming challenges in Bendagga, Nathindar, and Eterra would also need careful attention.

With the chapel slowly emptying and the intensity of the evening’s events beginning to subside, Garon helped Seum to his quarters. Seum’s legs were still unsteady, and his mind was swirling with the enormity of what had just transpired.

As they reached Seum’s room, Garon gently guided him to the bed. "Here, buddy, lie down. You need to rest."

Seum lay back on the bed, but his grip on Garon’s arm tightened. Fear flickered in his eyes, and his voice trembled as he spoke. "Garon, please don’t leave. I... I’m scared."

Garon sat beside him, his expression filled with concern. "I’m not going anywhere, Seum. I’m staying right here.  Wild behemoths could not drag me away from you."

Seum’s fear grew, his thoughts spiraling. "What if things change? What if you don’t want to be with me anymore because of what happened? What if they separate us?"

Garon shook his head firmly, his eyes locking onto Seum’s. "Listen to me, Seum. Nothing will change between us. You’re my best friend in the world, my companion. I don’t care what happened tonight—it doesn’t change how I feel about you."

Seum’s eyes welled up with tears. "But what if they decide we have to be separated because of the prophecy? I can’t bear the thought of losing you."

Garon reached out and took Seum’s hand, holding it tightly. "Seum, no prophecy, no matter how powerful, can come between us. I know in my heart that the Gods all know how much we care for each other, and I do not believe they would separate us, or allow anyone else to separate us. We’ve faced everything together, and we’ll face this too. I won’t let anyone separate us. We’re stronger together."

Seum felt a wave of relief wash over him, but the fear still lingered. "I just don’t want to be alone, Garon. I need you."

Garon’s grip on Seum’s hand tightened. "And you’ll have me, always. I promise. We’ll get through this, just like we always do."

The reassurance in Garon’s voice and the warmth of his touch soothed Seum’s fears. He closed his eyes, feeling the exhaustion from the evening’s events pulling him towards sleep. But even as he drifted off, he kept his hold on Garon, unwilling to let go of the one person who made him feel safe.

As Seum fell asleep, Garon stayed by his side, determined to keep his promise. He knew the path ahead would be challenging.

Chief Priest Arlen quietly entered the room, seeing the two friends together. He placed a hand on Garon’s shoulder, speaking softly. "You’ve been a good friend to Seum, Garon. Stay with him. He needs you."

Garon nodded, his resolve strengthening. "I will, Chief Priest. I’ll always be here for him."

Arlen smiled gently, knowingly. "Good. Rest now, both of you. Tomorrow, we begin to try and make sense of what happened and plan for the future."

With that, Arlen left the room, leaving Garon and Seum in the quiet stillness of the night. Garon stayed awake, keeping watch over Seum as he slept, his heart filled with determination to protect and support his best buddy no matter what the future held.

As dawn approached, the first light of day filtered through the window, casting a gentle glow over the two friends. Garon knew in his heart that they were bound by more than just deep friendship—and soon he would need to speak to Seum about it.  But not tonight.

Seum stirred in his sleep, his grip on Garon’s hand relaxing slightly but not letting go. Garon leaned back against the headboard, his own eyes growing heavy. He whispered softly, "We’ll get through this, Seum. Don't you worry."

With that promise in his heart, Garon finally allowed himself to drift off to sleep, still holding Seum’s hand, ready to face whatever challenges the new day would bring.