Mushraina

Maybe my future is doomed or maybe, I somehow managed to hallucinate wrong. I don't know. It was quite the vision though and way too multicolored for my liking.
— A new adult looking over their dream notes with a perplexed expression
 
The dark elves of the Carthi culture participate in a unique ceremony to celebrate the transition into adulthood. It is one of their oldest traditions. They brought it with them when they arrived at Omari and continue to utilize it in present day.
   

Purpose

 
The Mushraina is an event to promote deep self reflection while providing potential guidance for one's life path. It also has the potential to further connect with the individual's ancestors; results vary from person to person. These visions, recorded in a personal journal, can always be referred to throughout the elf's life whenever they feel the need to.
   

Components

 
There are a handful of items used for this ritual. The most vital component is the dream mushroom as its consumption is needed to provoke the guiding visions. It is prepared and put into a stone ceremonial bowl. A personalized journal, the design unique to each member, is used to record the information. Carthi keep these safe and sacred; many continue to fill the book with various things throughout their adult life.
 
A comfortable bed or sleeping mat is provided based on the individual's preference. Most perform this at home and choose to dream on their own furniture. The family's story quilt is draped over their body while they slumber. The last component is a feast of traditional foods to consume once they've awoken and written everything down.
   

Preparations

 
The week before the birthday, the young elf gathers what they'll need to participate. They first choose a trusted friend or family member to oversee their ceremony. This person ensures everything goes well and will help if any bad reactions occur. Next, they purchase the journal and make sure it's one they'll enjoy using for the rest of their life.
 
The day before the Mushraina, the individual picks out their own dream mushrooms; they are encouraged to "feel for the ones that call out to them". Their family members also begin preparing the food during this time. The story quilt is washed and prepared for the dream portion.
   

Procedure

 

Step One:

The mushrooms are ground into a powder and mixed with spring water inside of the ceremonial bowl. Then the elf drinks the liquid under the supervision of their trusted person.  

Step Two:

Once the bowl is set aside, they are gently laid down and covered with their story quilt. The other member watches over them while they dream.  

Step Three:

Upon waking, they are helped up and handed their journal. Their compatriot stands by while they proceede to write down the visions the mushrooms provided. The book is set in a safe place for personal review and reflection at a later time.  

Step Four:

When the elf feels up to it, they join their family to finish the ritual with a feast.
Type
Coming of Age
 
Year Started
Exact date unknown; it was brought over during the migration
 
Participants
Young adult Carthi
 
When
The individual's 100th birthday


Cover image: by Michael M

Comments

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Jul 18, 2021 12:44 by Olarae & Astaroth Arcaine

Dark elf mushroom ceremony, love it! (Though I am very biased when it comes to Drow and Dark elves).

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Jul 23, 2021 03:22 by Cassandra Sojourn

I love that becoming an adult in this elven society includes keeping a diary. I think this is a beautiful tradition; the family story quilt is a good touch and I always enjoy a good mushroom dream ritual.

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Aug 5, 2021 22:37 by Chris L

It's an ayahuasca ceremony! Nice details.

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