The Unodin Welcoming Celebration of Ojaveda
The winter has passed. Releasing its cold grasp upon the world. The signs of new life begin to blossom as the buds of the foliage show the promise of warmth coming with the changing cycle. Much of the hibernating wildlife have awoken from the seasonal protection of slumber. Seeking to regain their places within their known environments.
The surrounding hills show the last traces of snow receding to the warmer weather. The softened ground absorbs much of the melting water before the heavy rains of the new cycle begin. The soil welcomes the rains until it can hold no more. The excess runs of the slopes of the landscape. Feeding into the streams and rivers. They rise quickly to their breaking point as they weave through the land distributing the nutrients of life along their shores. The roar of the rushing waters can be heard
for kilometers from its source.
Across the world the many peoples begin the preparations for the cycles change. Each in accordance with the customs of their region, religion, or chosen way of life. The farmers prepare their fields for the planting of the seasons crops, or the new birth of the livestock they raise. Miners have already began their travels from their winter's quarters to beat the rains, as they travel to set up the camps which will be their homes throughout much of the year.
With the cycle's passing, the trade routes have begun to reopen. Bringing the prosperity of commerce along the once closed lanes of travel. Travelers swarm the roads with their numbers. Hunters, trappers, traders, merchants, miners, farmers, pilgrims, warriors and criminals all share the same trails. Each intent of purpose towards their own livelihoods.
In great anticipation the merchants unlock their winter storerooms. Preparing for the local and foreign crowds that will come looking to replace much needed wares, or to sell off the season's collection of goods. It was in this year that the merchants began to work together to increase their profitability. Becoming an organization that worked towards the commonwealth of their respected communities. In group they diversified the wealth and influence of their numbers. They became dedicated to promoting and protecting the welfare and customs of their communities. Forming themselves into the Mercantile Order of Commerce.
With the coming of Unodin they turned their interests to farming and mining communities of Ojaveda. Realizing the potential marketability of the region. They enlisted the experience and influence of the Call of Destiny and the Daughters of Xiosia to plan a celebration in the district of Akkaino to welcome in the coming of Unodin. The two guilds set to work immediately. Putting in place the ground work for the welcoming celebration. Then turning their efforts to recruiting help and sponsorship from other interested groups and individuals with whom they have had association. This joint venture would set the foundation of future interests toward the goodwill of the community.
The Welcoming of Unodin brings the communities together in celebration to welcome the upcoming change of the cycle. Centering on Ojaveda for its farming and mining interests. Though, many do look to their own gods and beliefs during this first day of Unodin. It is to Xiosia that will be looked towards in this celebration. It is her favors, and blessings that is sought to bring in the warmth, and fair weather needed to raise crops and livestock. By her will, that the miners may find the riches of her bounties that are brought to the markets to be transformed into usable goods.
The festivities provide the rural and urban residents a chance to introduce their children who have come to age. They are offered a chance to participate in their own activities. Ones that provide an opportunity for them to demonstrate their skills socially, and physically. In the hopes that they may find a suitable companion or spouse.
Pilgrimages are encouraged for those that worship Xiosia from distant lands. To test their faith by the hard journey to the district of Akkaino. To make their humble offerings and prayers at the small shrine placed in Xiosia's honor. They can share in the great feast provided to break the fast after the morning's dedication ceremony that many will have practiced in the demands of their beliefs. If they desire each may join the competitions in hope that one of them may be selected as the Lord or Lady of Ceremonies in the Divine Marriage to welcome in the first day of Unodin.
Merchants, miners, and craftspeople with have the opportunity to display and buy many craft and metal materials at a the Metal Extravaganza that will follow the evening ceremony. As they welcome their patron who
move between the market and the ladies choice dance.
