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Donning the Black - Elven Mourning in Ta'Nalfein
In the sad event that a friend or relative passes on beyond the Ebon Gates, a period of mourning is observed by close friends and family. This is referred to as Donning the Black, because of the color of the clothing worn by mourners, and the general attitudes and moods they assume.
There are allotted items of clothing that can be worn while one is following this ritual. The main article is a floor length black robe or a plain black dress. Black shoes, boots or slippers are worn under this, but because the robe is so long, they are not seen. In warmer areas, the mourner often goes barefoot. Black veils or headbands are also worn. No jewelry or other ornaments are worn, excepting those that symbolize one's marriage, engagement or rank. No armor, weapons or sheaths are to be worn.
During this period of mourning, which can last from a week to several months, one does not harm another creature. To do so while Wearing the Black is considered a grave insult against the departed, and is punishable by the other mourners of the deceased. A person may defend themselves from harm, but only in extreme situations where the life of someone else is at hand may they take an offensive. One does not openly show or carry weapons during this time, unless they are ceremonial. Armor is also not shown or worn unless as part of a ceremony. Shields can be used, but sparingly. Attacking with spells is also forbidden, and verbal attacks are frowned upon. Drinking, feasting, and attending parties or balls is generally unaccepted, unless they are in the name of the deceased. Weddings are exceptions, and mourners are expected to not dress in the full black while attending a marriage ritual, to show respect for the bride and groom.
To show respect for the deceased, and to show the pain on their hearts, mourners will make a small cut on their chest, allowing it to heal and form a small scar. With each subsequent death the mourner witnesses, the wound is reopened and allowed to heal once more. The more times this is done, the darker and larger the scar becomes. Among those that practice this, the mourning robes are cut low, to expose this scar.
In the case of some violent tragedy befalling the departed, such as being murdered (not assassinated politically), Luukos claiming their soul, or being turned into one of the undead, the Donning of the Black is not followed in the same way. The mourners will still wear black, and cut their chest, but in the opposite direction than an existing scar, forming an X. The mourner is restricted to all the same social limitations, but they may wear armor and carry shields and swords. This symbolizes the fate that has befallen the one they mourn for, and allows them to exact revenge. In the case of a political assassination, the normal Donning of the Black is followed. This is for obvious reasons, the multitude of the political assassinations, and the acceptance of them by society as a natural part of court life.
It is not known how the practice of Donning the Black originated, it is thought to have begun some two thousand years after the founding of the Seven Cities. It is still practiced today, especially among nobles and those of the upper-middle class in Ta'Nalfein. Various other obscure customs have emerged and faded over time, this is simply a short summary.
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