The Death of the Pythia (February 26th) is observed primarily in the Drylands. While the city-folk honor the Founding of their civilization and the triumph of Science over Magic, the Drylanders take solace in knowing they will never again have to give up one of their own children in order to live in peace.

The Death of the Pythia is a night to remember what has been sacrificed in order to stay safe and to grow. It is a time to remember that while our lives are harsh and cold, that the feel of freedom is only one courageous act away. Whether that act is done by ourselves or by someone else, we are reminded that all of us are connected, and we must all honour the choices that have been made to guide us to where we are now.

The Death of the Pythia reminds us to reject tyranny and superstition and to live in our own truth, to find a community that values loyalty over fear, merit over rank, and life over power. The fate of the Pythians reminds us what happens to those who seek to control others through fear and darkness.

ritual

Ritual written by Healer Isa.

Tonight, we remember those who have been lost for the Greater Good.

We remember the sacrifices that have been made.

As we take shelter in our homes, listening to the wind outside,

We rejoice in our freedom.

But we never forget what our freedom has cost us.

We honor those who have gone before us.

Who have given of themselves so that we may live in peace.

We commit ourselves to never allow this to happen again.

We will be our own Champions.

We commit ourselves to speak for those who can not speak for themselves.

To defend the defenseless.

We will not allow ourselves to be humiliated by tyranny.

We will speak.

We will act.

We will live.