Ancestor Veneration

During the Exodus, it was no longer possible to bury the dead in the eternal ice, as had once been customary. Keeping the deceased aboard the ships for decades was out of the question, so they were given to the sea. At the same time, their names were recorded so they would not be forgotten. For practical reasons, all living individuals were also listed during the journey, to ensure that things like food distribution and duty assignments could be carried out systematically and fairly.   During the rebuilding of Vintergard after the Exodus, both practices were continued and expanded. It became tradition to inscribe the names of newborns on ancestor tablets—later made of frostglass. When someone died, their name was struck through, but in a way that kept it legible.   For this reason, most Frostfolk can trace their ancestral line, provided they know their parents. Naturally, family branches have formed over time, and kinship is extensive, making it impossible to represent an entire family on a single frostglass. Therefore, for over a thousand years, newborns have been recorded by birth year on frostglass. It is the responsibility of each family to maintain their ancestral records and ensure accurate documentation.   Typically, only notable individuals among the ancestors are venerated—and for each person, those with a personal connection. For example, a family might honor a warrior who fell heroically in battle against a beast, or a grandmother who shared a particularly close bond with the one offering the prayer.

Family Shrine

Every family possesses a shrine. Some have only a small niche in their dwelling, where small ancestor figurines are placed. These are usually carved from bone; wealthier families may even own figures made of frostglass. A few families have built larger shrines in the ice west of the cities, suitable for gatherings and family celebrations held in the presence of the ancestors. On such occasions, many branches of the family come together to celebrate—such as for a wedding.   These shrines often display the main ancestral line, with the most important figures recorded and arranged. At weddings, it is customary to create a new bone plaque that records the union of the couple and their respective lineages. This plaque is then stored in the family shrine—either visibly displayed or kept in a chest with other ancestral records. In some families, these plaques are archived even after the couple’s death, to preserve the lineage for future generations.   Some families maintain particularly meticulous records. In such households, there is often a designated person—the so-called Ancestor Keeper—responsible for maintaining the tablets, figurines, and documents. In rare cases, this person lives directly in the shrine or in an adjacent room and devotes themselves entirely to ancestral care. These arrangements are typically found in traditional or affluent families and are considered a sign of deep reverence for the forebears.   Most family branches maintain their own ancestral records—usually only the most significant names.

Veneration

Traditionally, famous ancestors are venerated as figurines. On their day of death, these figures are honored in particular: the family gathers in the evening and places the figure at the table. It is given its own seat, and each member offers a portion of their meal. Symbolic food is placed on a plate before the figure. The same is done with drinks—a cup is gradually filled through shared contributions.   Some decorate the shrine or the figure itself. In large shrines, a feast may be held in honor of especially important or renowned ancestors. After the meal, the family gathers to recount the ancestor’s story, ensuring it is not forgotten. The figure is then returned to its niche, and the family expresses the wish that the ancestor may soon return. This is based on the belief that souls can be reborn and once again perform great deeds—for the good of the family and the Frostfolk.

Petitions and Prayers

Petitions to ancestors depend on what they accomplished in life. A brave warrior might be asked for courage, resilience, and similar traits. A skilled craftsman might be invoked for artistic talent or inspiration. A compassionate ancestor might be asked for blessings of children, healing, or protection.   Each family has its own unique characters among the ancestors—generalization is not possible. The traits of the ancestor determine the nature of the prayers and requests.

Soul Migration

The Frostfolk believe that the souls of the deceased eventually return and enter an unborn child. Most souls are ordinary and unremarkable—no one will recognize them. But in some families, exceptional warriors, strategists, mages, or craftsmen reappear again and again, reinforcing this belief. It is always the same soul returning, once more achieving greatness.