Ritual of a Single Seed

This Rite of Passage began during the Age of Light, a time when the Maiden communed with her children and taught them how to cultivate the world and bring it to its full potential. This was originally attempted by the first Spring Guardian, who then began this as a test for his children and eventually every child in the tribe to show that they have learned the Maiden's lessons.

Despite the passage of time, the Great Storm, and the unification into the Elemental Enclaves, the former Terra Tribe has held to this ritual ever since.

1. The 30-Mile Journey to the Sacred Grove - Lake Tasela has provided for the Earth's providence since the beginning, and young elves must carry a single heirloom seed around the lake to the sacred grove located on the opposite shore. Throughout the several-day journey, they must ensure the seed is cared for and kept alive. Additionally, they must be prepared for any natural obstacles that may be encountered along the way.
2. Location in the Sacred Grove - The seed that each elf carries is significant to their families, and they must display their knowledge of nature and agriculture by knowing where in the grove the eventual plant will flourish.
3. Feeling the Energy of the Earth - It is not just a matter of planting the seed, but ensuring that the young elves reach out with their senses in a moment of meditation and feel the earth around them, feel the energy that is within.
4. Return to Damadeor - The young elves are met by elders who then transport them across the lake back to Damadeor to enjoy the festival, having proven they are ready for adulthood and to continue the mission of caring for the earth.

Heirloom Seeds - These are not just any seeds, but seeds that their families have carefully preserved from the year they were born until now. It can be a specific grain, a fruit tree seed, or a root vegetable. Families often choose the same seed for each member of their clan.

The Spring Guardian oversees this ritual as part of his duties leading the Earth Providence on behalf of the Steward of the Seasons. The Steward of Seasons is known to appear, often when a prominent family's child participates.

Elven Elders, often those who have reached over 400 years of age, oversee the grove, await the young elves, and monitor their performance during the latter stages of the ritual.

Young Elves who have recently reached adulthood are the main participants.

The First Thaw - Roughly near the beginning of each year, signifies that Spring will soon be coming. Thus, a festival is held and Elves are tested to they can better assist with the coming planting season.

25th Year - This is the age of physical maturity for Elves, and any Elf of the Earth Providence who has reached this age in the past year participates in the Ritual.