Network - 06

[graveyounglady]

Who: Mercy Graves
Username: mercyme
Warnings: discussion of death, death rites, burial, religion (both real world and fantasy)
What: Mercy asks about the burial rites and preferences of people from other worlds to help ensure their bodies and souls are taken care of as they would like if they die.

To the Gentlefolk of Other Worlds,

We ring in this new year with sad tidings, indeed. Another of our number has fallen, Mr. George Milton. He was a good and kind man possessed of strong morals and the sort of community spirit I find myself aspiring to. His loss is another wound upon the soul of our own community, one that still bears the scar of Garner Cinderbrooke's loss, and the loss of every soul who has disappeared since our arrival in this new world.

In my own world, much of my life has been spent tending the graves of those who have passed on, some in violence, some with the peace of sunlight, friends, and family surrounding them. The religions of my world have set ways to honor the dead and see they're tended to. My people follow Brother Earth, one who tends to all lost souls that may come to his embrace. But my family arranged and performed rites for other peoples. Those who bend their heads to the Blind Mother, mostly.

I know their rites. I know how to honor them.

I do not know how George Milton would have wished to be honored. We can only guess. I would beseech you, friends, make a record here and now. Should the worst befall you in these uncertain times, how would you see yourself honored? What prayers or rituals would you see performed to please your god or your soul, as you believe it to be, free of gods. Life must always end, and it is important to contemplate what that end would look like for you.

For my part, the Sradan people prepare a body for burial, ensuring the body will not rot or spread disease, and allow it to lie for one day while a celebration is held at the plot where they are to spend the Long Rest. We commemorate their life, share stories of them, and thank those in the graves nearby for their neighborly spirit. The one who has died is placed within a simple wooden casket of the most modest design and materials--whatever is to hand--and buried. The next day is for quiet mourning and deep, intimate conversation with the grave for those who need it.

And that is our way. Please, friends, tell me what is yours.

May the Light of Pelor Guide You,
Mercy Graves

Comments

[ruevealing]

A god!

[The idea is so laughable, but coming from Mercy, Rue knows the sincerity the young woman speaks with. They can't help but feel flattered, even under these circumstances.]

I am learning that death as I have known it is very different in this place. I have much to learn, certainly, but above all, please know that I am here for you through this and all future events. You are a dear friend, Mercy Graves, and I would much rather feel the full force of all that I have hidden myself away from than to let you walk through this alone.

You have my support and my eternal adoration, however you need it, my dear.

[graveyounglady]

You are a resplendent being of grace, kindness, and power. Had I not pledged myself to Pelor only recently to fulfill the request of a friend, I could see myself pledging as a cleric to your name. It would be an honor to start your faith and spread what words you would have for others to hear. When I was younger, Brother Earth, my first god, was one of my best friends. We have grown apart in many ways, though, and I find my faith has found other hands. I was never able to hear him speak. It would be an honor to be able to communicate directly with my god, were you such.

I thank you for your words and sentiments. Right now, I think I most need our efforts toward a celebration of the season to be a success. That we may raise up some joy in these darker times.

[ruevealing]

Well, I may not be your god, but you can always rely on my reply, my dear. For anything you need, you have my ear and my guidance.

[It's sweet and maybe just a little heartbreaking, to hear Mercy's previous experience with her faith. Rue doesn't believe in any higher power, but they know the young woman enough to know just how important her faith is to her. Whatever deity she is looking towards, Mercy deserves to find the answers she seeks within them.]

You have my promise, child, that our celebration of the seasons will be a triumph. And so will every other we throw after. I anticipate we will have quite the popular festival on our hands, after we show everyone just what we've prepared for them.

I am quite excited for your vision to finally come to life.

[graveyounglady]

Thank you, Rue. I look forward to it, as well, and hold it in my heart as hope in these dark times. I will message you anon, that we may discuss the festivities in greater detail.