Character Stories & Developments: The Elumis Celebration

As the sun begins to set, the sky slowly turns gray, and small white specks start falling gently from above, adding a new layer of snow to the ground. The snowflakes flutter down slowly while the setting sun paints the remaining visible sky in an array of vibrant hues of oranges, pinks, and reds.

 

Finn and Boaraphalis had just arrived in Vayl and were trudging through the snow on their way to the Elumis Celebration Festival. This festival is held in the final month of the year and celebrates the gods of Light and Community. The event lasts the entire month, but Finn and Boaraphalis are usually busy and cannot attend every day. They have set aside some time to travel to Vayl and attend the festival on a specific date.

 

Finn was dressed in his winter outfit, which consisted of a dusty blue long-sleeve turtleneck sweater and a black leather jacket with a fluffy trim around the collar. He had wrapped a navy blue cloak around him and was wearing matching navy blue boots, warm white gloves, and white pants. Meanwhile, Boaraphalis was also dressed in a matching outfit. He wore a white button-up shirt with a cloak draped over his shoulders, matching boots, gloves, and pants. They both wore matching earrings that they always kept on, no matter where they went.

 

"So how long do you think we'll stay there?" Boaraphalis asks and Finn can't help but chuckle. "Mate, we haven't even gotten there yet!"

"No I know, I just mean... we won't have to interact with anyone unless we have to, right?"

 

Boaraphalis was never fond of large events such as festivals, mainly because of the large crowds and loud noise. He disliked the idea of having to interact with people, especially if he encountered someone he knew. However, he understood that this particular celebration was significant, and since it would only last a few hours, he decided to endure it. "Don't worry, my friend. It won't be that bad! We'll just go, check out some stalls, play some games, do The Light Exchange, and then we can leave! I can do all the talking if you want," Finn consoled him, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder and smiling reassuringly at him.

 

Boaraphalis smiled back and nodded. "Fine, I guess that's okay." He let out a dramatic huff. "But I suppose if it's with you, it won't be so bad." Finn smiled and lightly nudged his shoulder with his head before they continued towards the location of the festival.

 

As they finally arrive at the festival, Finn is awestruck by the spectacle before him. Hundreds of colorful stringed lights are hanging, along with tall torches that help illuminate the area. Stands and booths of all kinds are scattered around, offering different things such as trinkets, food, and traditional games. The lights create an enchanting and comforting glow, making the snow below shimmer despite it being torn up and dented by all the people walking around.

 

Finn's wings slightly puff up in excitement as he walks around, surveying all of the different stands. Boaraphalis watches with a smirk and chuckles to himself. Despite having gone to this festival hundreds of times, he will never tire of seeing Finn's enthusiasm for everything.

 

Finn was drawn to a booth that sold handcrafted jewelry made from various metals and jewels. He was attracted by the shiny appearance of the jewelry and picked up a golden necklace. "Wow, this Boaraphalis is beautiful!" he exclaimed as his friend approached him. "It looks nice, but do you need more jewelry? You already have a box full of stuff," Boaraphalis replied. Finn persisted, "But it's Elumis! Can't we make an exception?" Boaraphalis laughed and gave in to Finn's request.

 

"Alright, you can choose one item but let's try to find something that is more affordable. Maybe one of the rings?" He suggests as he puts back the necklace where Finn had taken it from. The winged man lets out a sigh but agrees to the proposal and begins looking through the ring collection.

 

Finn takes his time choosing the perfect ring, finally settling on a simple golden band with a thin line of silver in the middle. Boaraphalis pays for the ring, and they continue to explore the festival, trying different foods, playing games, and catching up with old friends. Eventually, they find a quiet bench where they can sit and enjoy their snacks while enjoying each other's company.

 

At last, they arrived at the most significant part of the celebration - The Light Exchange. The event was set up in a large clearing, which was encircled by torches and adorned with festive decorations made of artificial flowers. The Light Exchange was the primary tradition during Elumis, where everyone would carry a lantern containing a never-ending flame. Individuals could obtain this flame either by using their fire magic, like Boaraphalis, or by receiving one for free from other fire users at the festival.

 

As part of a community tradition, people would gather with their family, friends, or even strangers to exchange a part of their flame with each other. The purpose of this exchange was to bring people closer, regardless of their background or relationship status, and to symbolize the love and connection between individuals. This simple gesture held a deep meaning and was a powerful way of showing love and unity within the community.

 

Finn took out his lantern and waited for Boaraphalis to ignite it before lighting up his lantern. Next, they swapped their lanterns' flames with each other before setting off together to share the light with the rest of the group.

 

Despite the flames being small and not giving off any sort of heat, Finn was warmed at the thought of being so accepted by such a community and his best friend.