Ascension Ritual
Although Apeironites are the Ohmite reincarnations, they are not immortal. When an Apeironite dies, their body undergoes the Ascension Ritual to release their ohmi into the aether. An Apeironite’s ohmi must be released into the aether to restore their respective Ohmites’ essence. This is essential for the next Apeironite to be reborn.
History
The first recorded Ascension Ritual dates back to the deaths of the first Apeironites during the Age of Enlightenment. It was the first time that an Apeironite lived from the Terbis, Azuris, Sonis, and Fernis branches of ohmi. Their exact cause of death had been torn out of the Writ of the Ohmites, but what remained was how Mancers were guided by the gods on how to prepare the Apeironites’ bodies for the Final Ascent. The Ohmites claimed the Apeironites’ ohmi would have to be returned to the aether for the rebirth of the next Apeironites. Had their bodies not been prepared for the Final Ascent, the Ohmites would not be able to return to bring balance to the world and provide guidance.
Execution
After an Apeironite dies, they must be taken to a location where their branch of concentration is high. The Apeironite often chooses this location before their death. Once there, their body is buried in the land by the lead Mancers of their sect. The leaders then place a veil over the area, and for three days, they recite the Chant of Ascension. At the end of the third day, the veil is lifted, and an ohminium obelisk is placed next to the burial site to serve as a conduit for the Ohmites and a marker for mourners.
Components and tools
Roughly a week after the Ascension Ritual, a period of visitation follows when mourners can pay their respects to the deceased Apeironite. Mourners bring offerings that are synonymous with the branch of ohmi and sect of the Apeironite:
- Terbis ohmi/Theran branch: fertile soil, seeds, and gemstones.
- Azuris ohmi/Azanum branch: blessed water, pearls, and seashells.
- Sonis ohmi/Sonum branch: feathers, wind chimes, and blessings on parchment.
- Fernis ohmi/Ferno branch: oil, spices, and burning incense.
Participants
An Apeironite’s sect Mancers lead the Ascension Ritual beginning immediately after the Apeironite’s death. The Supreme Mancer of the sect sends the formal announcement to the leaders of all kingdoms, except for the Kingdoms of Hodrana and Blacklam. The Supreme Mancer will send the formal announcement to the Supreme Lumancer. The announcement is then made to the citizens across all kingdoms.
Families are often the first to the burial site during the period of visitation. Members of royalty, especially from the Apeironite’s kingdom, are often next to visit and pay their respects, followed by everyone else who wishes to visit.
Comments