On the High Toast of the Day of the Family
Much has been made of the upcoming celebrations for the “Day of the Family.” As has been rumored, Nepheris decided to resume formal observances, though his motives are unknown. Indeed, it has been quite some time since anyone in Circadia has seen a formal celebration of the Day of the Family overseen by anyone other than ranking clergy–to have a God invested in such a celebration seems like the stuff of old legend.
More information has been released about the proceedings, and it confirms that Nepheris and/or his Brother have decided to return to not only “the Family Dinner” but the opening tradition of the “High Toast.”
The High Toast traditionally opens Day of the Family celebrations. Dynastic hymns are played and, afterwards, four toasts are offered. The first toast is made in honor of the Gods, the second toast in honor of the Devout, and the final toast in honor of the Dynasty. Generally, these toasts are given by local Devout, one for each toast. The final High Toast is only given in the presence of a God and is generally delivered by a High Clergy member.
Classically, the High Toast is considered to be a great honor, and its delivery generally marks the speaker as the highest ranking Mortal in Circadia. Of course, traditions have shifted, and it is somewhat less formal now.
The first three toasts are often short but delivered with expert oratorship–they are frequently times during which Devout exercise their own political agency, though this is only done with extreme tact and skill. The High Toast is often longer and sometimes read aloud from a written proclamation–the High Toast is almost always some sort of political maneuver.
This year, it seems the High Toast is being offered “field style.” “Field style” refers to celebrations given during times of war, upheaval, or anticipated hardship. It refers to Devout troops celebrating while deployed in the field, though more generally indicates a “dressed down” affair. While Devout are still expected to attend the toast with proper pomp, they are not required or expected to leave their field assignments, and celebrations happen in the spare accommodations deployment allows.
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Zealot Larp 