Aethyric Druidism/Ceremonies

Various ceremonies are done by Aethyric Druids at the Esbats, all of which are hosted by the highest ranking Druid present. Usually this is a standard Druid, as the Covens are meant to be small, but the Silverkin and Renderra Covens, holding Nobility and an Archdruid family position, usually have an Archdruid leading even small ceremonies.

Standard Ceremonies
Done at every Esbat, the opening, cakes and ale, and closing are vital to the process.

Opening
The Use of a Staff and Sword, one to repel spirits and the other to seal them out, is used to draw a magic circle on the ground surrounding the area. Incense is lit and scattered around the circle to strengthen this, and salt water made holy by blessing is used to finish the edge. Through this all elements are invoked, and balance is maintained. People who wish to enter the circle must cut an entrance with an Athame. Children who are not given one may enter with a parent.after all have entered, the incense is sent around the circle again. The head of the Esbat is at the center, by an altar, and welcomes people as they enter. Once all have entered, News is shared whether positive or negative.

Cakes and Ale
Done with bread and either wine or ale, Cakes and Ale gives thanks to Guthix for the Harvest.

Cakes is done traditionally with wheat cakes. But, bread, fruit, nuts, and pastries are all acceptable. The Ale in question can be any form of juice, wine, or ale. Hard Liquor is not suggested.

The Leader cuts the bread with a white handled dagger, and serves the ale from the Chalice. Beforehand, the dagger is dipped in the chalice, a symbol of fertility. After the bread is cut, energy is meant to be grounded through prayer toward the ground, as it is eaten. The chalice follows closely behind to drink.

Closing
After some final prayers and blessings of good fortune and will, the people leave the circle through their athames, in the same style as entering.

Marriage/Divorce
Marriage in Aethyric Druidism is bound by blood. Small cuts are made on the wrist, so blood can be shared between the couple. As their blood flows as one, the Leader will speak of Balance, Nature, and life. With a few blessings from one member of the couple to the other, the Leader presents rings. The rings are exchanged, as the Coven gives their blessings to the Couple.

The opposite, Divorce, is done differently. In the area where the blood was drawn, salt water from a consecrated chalice is wiped on. Words are spoken of how love comes to everyone, but these souls simply didn't connect well enough for intimacy. After a kiss good-bye, they are free to marry once more and legally recognized as single.

Notably, Divorce is rare among Nobles due to most marriages being for alliance. Most Nobles also, do not have a wedding ceremony with only coven members present. The Nobles of the Renderra, as an example, usually have only one wedding. Some have two, one in private then one in public.

However, among the commoners where weddings are not diplomatic affairs, these are usually smaller and held only once.

Initiation
There are three kinds of Initiation.

Consecration
Done to a newborn or a child, this ceremony is done to protect them with Guthix's blessing, It claims them for the faith and under the faith's protection until such a time arises where they may make the decision for themselves. Salt water and ashes are used to make the Guthixian teardrop on the forehead, then blown on softly by the Leader to invoke the elements.

Initiation
Done to a child of 10, this is the ceremony of becoming an adult. For converts and children alike, this is the death and rebirth of a person. Initiated people are able to become a squire, knight, of other officer position with the Military or the Order of the Iron Star.

For the ceremony, the Initiate is blindfolded and tied, specifically with hands behind the back, and a blindfold over the eyes. Once they enter the circle, the rope is tied around the upper body, meant to symbolize the compression of the womb, before the rope is cut loose.

In modern times, symbols of Saradomin, Zamorak, and Armadyl made of salt must be added to a hot cauldron for converts. Saradominists, Zamorakians, and Armadyleans would not destroy the holy symbol of their god, but others see no value in the symbols and thus, no harm is done. This ensures the coven is secure from outside threats coming within.

After the rope is cut and symbols melting, the Initiate has ashes and salt water added to their forehead in Guthix's teardrop shape, incense is scattered around them, and they are free to partake in Cakes and Ale. If there is an athame to be presented to them by family, this is done. Otherwise, they now have the freedom to craft their own.

Druid Ascension
Druids must study 30 years from their Initiation to become a Druid. After this time...

TBC