The Crystalline Conjunction

In the Frostpeak Clan, the alignment of Yuki, Morozko, and Khione, is a highly significant and eagerly anticipated celestial event. It occurs approximately every 40-60 years and brings forth a surge of icy magic and frosty phenomena. This alignment represents the convergence of the icy forces in the cosmos and holds great importance within the pantheon of Olam, the world of the Frostpeak tribe.   During the Crystalline Conjunction, the boundaries between planes of existence are thinned, allowing mortals to catch glimpses of the icy realms and empowering those attuned to ice magic with heightened abilities. For the Frostpeak Clan, this alignment has a direct impact on their tribal traditions and rituals. It is during this time that the tribe selects a new shaman, who will inherit the role from the current elder shaman.   The shaman initiate, chosen on the day of the alignment, embarks on a year-long journey with the elder shaman into the wilderness. This period of training is dedicated to mastering various pillars of knowledge that are integral to the role of the shaman. These pillars include herbology and botany, potion making, necromancy, healing and restorative magic, nature manipulation, and poison and toxin expertise.   Through the study of herbology and botany, the shaman gains a deep understanding of plants, herbs, and fungi, including their magical properties. Potion making allows the shaman to brew potent concoctions using botanical ingredients for healing and harmful magic. The study of necromancy delves into the cycle of life and death, teaching the shaman spells and rituals for communing with spirits and manipulating life forces.   Healing and restorative magic enable the shaman to mend wounds, cure ailments, and promote overall well-being through life-affirming magic. Nature manipulation grants the shaman the ability to control elements of nature, such as plants, animals, and the environment. Lastly, the shaman develops expertise in poisons, toxins, and venoms, harnessing and manipulating them for offensive and defensive purposes.   However, alongside the selection of a new shaman, another member of the Frostpeak Clan is chosen for a different fate. This individual bears the "dark marking" and is banished from the tribe for eternity. The banishment of a tribe member with the "dark marking" is a long-standing tradition that originated thousands of years ago. The tradition began when a dark mark, appearing on the hands or feet of tribesmen and women, started spreading among the clan. This unsettling phenomenon raised concerns and fear within the tribe.   To prevent the further spread of this mysterious mark and the potential consequences it may bring, the Frostpeak Clan made the difficult decision to banish those afflicted. The banishment of these individuals became a solemn ritual carried out during each selection of the new shaman. By sending one member away, the clan hopes to ensure that the dark marking never returns to their tribe again.   The selection of the tribute to bear the dark marking and leave the tribe is a somber and emotionally charged event. It symbolizes sacrifice and serves as a reminder of the tribe's commitment to safeguarding their way of life. The chosen individual would embark on a journey of exile, leaving behind their kin and the familiarity of their tribe to face an uncertain fate outside the Frostpeak Clan's boundaries.   The Crystalline Conjunction represents a time of transformation and renewal. It is a momentous occasion filled with hope, anticipation, and a sense of destiny as they prepare to embrace the powers of the icy realms and shape the future of Olam, but it is also a solemn reminder of the Frostpeak Clan's dedication to preserving their traditions and ensuring the prosperity and harmony of their community. It represents a sacrifice made for the greater good of the tribe and underscores their belief in the importance of unity and purity within their ranks.