Weepingsday

Weepingsday is a Cyridian holiday that falls on the fall equinox. It mourns the dismemberment of Cyridia and is much more solemn than other Athvrean festivals.

Clothing choices are austere and funeral clothing is common. Mourners meet at the temple where they confess their failings and their deepest hopes to the eternal flame, which burns low and red on this day. A communal bonfire is held and offerings are burnt. These offerings take the form of paper klaras and blazes, raw foodstuffs, and folk art prepared specifically for the fire. A stuffed effigy of Cyridia is then dismantled and a single piece of straw or stuffing is handed to each attendee. These are taken home and burnt in the hearth. Many families burn offerings for departed members and ancestors during this time as well, taking the time to remember them.

Singing is traditionally done with a soloist performer only accompanied with a chain drum. Theater and art are still performed but are relegated to tragedies and abstract art. Performers use ash and oil to paint their faces and bodies. The marks are not washed but allowed to rub off over time.

The day starts with a fast the previous evening that is broken at sunset. Dishes tend to be simple, featuring vegetable stews, millet, and fruit. Despite the simple offerings, the meal tends to be large.