Old Ways
The Old Ways are a set of beliefs and practices that emphasize the power of nature and the role of the Guardians, powerful supernatural beings that control the natural world. These Guardians are often depicted as protectors of nature and the environment. They are said to have the ability to influence the elements, such as the wind, water, fire, and earth. Much like nature itself, they can be capricious and unpredictable. Therefore, it is important to approach them with caution and reverence.
The Old Ways are deeply rooted in mysticism and folklore, and have been established by the Guardians themselves. The traditions are passed down through generations, including the rituals and ceremonies to honour and appease the Guardians.
According to the Old Ways, the Guardians are intermediaries between humans and the natural world. People believe they must make alliances with the Guardians to maintain balance and harmony in their lives. These alliances often involve offerings or sacrifices made to the Guardians in exchange for their protection, assistance and gift of power. When entering into an alliance with a Guardian, a human must accept to bear their mark either as a Fatum or a Tributum.
The Old Ways also include a variety of rites centred around natural phenomena, such as the changing of the seasons and the cycles of the moon. These practices often involve using herbs, crystals, and other natural objects with special powers and properties.
The Old Ways are a rich and complex set of beliefs and practices that reflect a deep respect and reverence for the natural world and the supernatural beings that control it. While these traditions may vary from region to region and from culture to culture, they all emphasize nature's power and the importance of maintaining balance and harmony in our lives.
Presentation
The Fatum and Tributum are two sides of the same coin when it comes to making alliances with the Guardians. They represent the balance that must be maintained in any agreement with these powerful spirits, as there is always a cost associated with gaining their magical powers. The Fatum is always a physical alteration; it can be related to the Guardians or the power they granted. The Tributum is instead a social or psychological trait correlating to the deal made with a Guardian. In any case, if someone does not respect the conditions of their alliance, they will receive the Fatum.
For some, especially among the Forest folks, the Fatum is seen as a symbol of their closeness with the Guardians. They wear their physical alterations with pride, seeing them as a mark of their connection to the spirits of the natural forces.
Others, however, see the Fatum as a warning sign. They believe that the physical alterations are reminders of the dangers of making alliances with the Guardians, and they view those who bear them with suspicion and caution. These individuals may take on the Tributum instead, believing that it is a safer option that allows them to maintain their humanity while still gaining some of the Guardians' power.
Of course, it is not always clear which option is the best one to choose. The Guardians are known for their capriciousness and unpredictability, and there is always a risk that they will twist the terms of any agreement in their favour. Some followers of the Old Ways believe that it is better to take on the Fatum, as it is a more straightforward cost that can be easily understood and managed. Others believe that the Tributum is the safer choice, as it is less likely to result in a physical transformation that could make them a target for outsiders.
Regardless of which option is chosen, it is essential to respect the terms of the agreement with the Guardians. Those who break their promises or fail to fulfil their obligations may suffer the consequences. Followers of the Old Ways take their dealings with the Guardians very seriously, and they know there is always a price to be paid for gaining their power.
Fatum and Tributum
The followers of the Old Ways believe that the Guardians are present in the natural world and that they can communicate with them through certain rituals and ceremonies. Many of these rituals involve offerings to the Guardians at sacred sites throughout the land, such as ancient stone circles, fairy mounds, or other natural features like waterfalls or great trees. These offerings include food, flowers, magical items or other natural objects, and are intended to demonstrate respect and gratitude for the Guardians' power and influence.
By making offerings and performing other rituals, the followers of the Old Ways seek the blessings and guidance of the Guardians. They may ask for protection, good fortune, help in resolving personal or community issues or specific power or ability. The Guardians are believed to have knowledge of the future and can offer insight and guidance on important decisions or life choices.
RESPECT FOR NATURE: The Old Ways emphasize the importance of respecting and protecting nature, and see the natural world as something to be revered and protected.
HONOURING THE GUARDIANS: The Old Ways place a great emphasis on the Guardians, supernatural beings that control the forces of nature. Offerings and rituals are often performed in their honour, seeking their guidance and blessings.
ANIMISM: The Old Ways are often associated with animism, the belief that all things, both living and non-living, have a spiritual essence or energy.
SEASONAL CELEBRATIONS: The Old Ways often incorporate seasonal celebrations, such as the solstices and equinoxes, as a way of honouring the natural cycles of the earth.
CONNECTION TO ANCESTORS: Many followers of the Old Ways believe in the importance of connecting with their ancestors, and may perform rituals or make offerings to honour and seek guidance from their ancestors.
USE OF DIVINATION: The Old Ways may use divination, such as reading omens, casting runes, or interpreting dreams, to seek guidance and insight.
FOLKLORE AND MYTHOLOGY: The Old Ways are steeped in folklore and mythology, often used to explain the mysteries of the natural world and the role of the Guardians.
ORAL TRADITIONS: The Old Ways are passed down through oral tradition, with knowledge and practices being shared within families or communities.
PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY: The Old Ways emphasize personal responsibility and agency, with individuals being encouraged to take control of their lives and actively seek harmony and balance.
DIVERSITY AND INCLUSIVITY: The Old Ways are not a monolithic tradition, and can vary greatly depending on the region and community in which they are practised. Therefore, they often embrace diversity and inclusivity, encouraging individuals to find their path within the tradition.
Here is an example of a ritual following the beliefs and customs of the Old Ways:
The first step in the ritual is to choose a location that is considered sacred, a place where the Guardians are present. This might be an ancient stone circle, a natural spring or waterfall, a grove of trees, etc.
Next, the person performing the ritual gathers offerings to present to the Guardians. These offerings might include food, flowers, crystals, or other natural objects that have special properties or significance.
Before presenting the offerings, the person may choose to purify the space by smudging it with herbs or incense, or by pouring water over the site. This is believed to cleanse the space and make it more welcoming to the Guardians.
The person then presents the offerings to the Guardians, placing them on a rock or other natural surface. As the offerings are presented, the person may recite prayers or words of gratitude to the Guardians.
After making the offerings, the person may seek guidance or insight from the Guardians by meditating or asking for assistance with a specific issue or decision.
Once the ritual is complete, the person thanks the Guardians for their presence and guidance, and may leave a small token or gift as a sign of respect and gratitude.
Rites
Photo: André Langevin
Photo: Yves Bériault
VERSE 1
Oh, Guardian of old, with magic bright,
We come to you with hearts alight.
In ancient groves and sacred glades,
We seek your guidance in our ways.
CHORUS
Hail the Guardian, with power true,
Bless us with your wisdom too.
Light our path and guide us well,
With your magic, break the spell.
VERSE 2
From misty lands and great halls,
Your voices echo through the calls.
Your laughter rings with joyous sound,
And in our hearts, your presence found.
CHORUS
Hail the Guardian, with power true,
Bless us with your wisdom too.
Light our path and guide us well
With your magic, break the spell.
VERSE 3
We make our offerings at your feet,
With hearts of gratitude and peace.
For in your wisdom, we find rest,
And in your magic, we are blessed.
CHORUS
Hail the Guardian, with power true,
Bless us with your wisdom too.
Light our path and guide us well,
With your magic, break the spell.
VERSE 4
So let us honour you this day,
With song and dance, our voices raised.
For in the Old Ways, we find our strength,
And in your power, we find our faith.
CHORUS
Hail the Guardian, with power true,
Bless us with your wisdom too.
Light our path and guide us well,
With your magic, break the spell.
May this hymn honour the power and wisdom of the Guardians and inspire those who follow the Old Ways to continue to seek their guidance and blessings.
Hymn
KEEPERS OF TRADITIONS
Druids are the spiritual leaders and keepers of the Old Ways, preserving and passing down the knowledge and practices of the community from generation to generation.
They are seen as intermediaries between humans and the Guardians, using their knowledge and spiritual practices to communicate with and honour these powerful beings.
HEALERS
Druids are often skilled in herbalism, energy work, or other forms of healing, and may use these skills to help the community's most needy members.
TEACHERS
Druids serve as teachers, offering guidance and instruction to individuals seeking to deepen their connection to the natural world and the spiritual realm.
RITUAL LEADERS
Druids usually lead rituals and ceremonies, helping to facilitate the connection between the community and the Guardians.
COUNSELLORS
Druids serve as counsellors, offering guidance and support to individuals dealing with personal or spiritual issues.
Druids
The Old Ways have taken on different names and forms depending on the region and culture where they are practised. While the fundamental beliefs and practices may be similar across these different cultures, the way in which they are expressed and understood can vary greatly. Here are some examples of how the Old Ways are expressed in different parts of Argon:
DJINNS IN THE DESERT
In the desert regions of Argon, the Guardians are known as Djinns. These powerful entities are believed to dwell in the desert's winds and sands, and are revered as protectors and guides by the people who live there. Rituals and offerings may be made to the Djinns at sacred sites in the desert, seeking their blessings and protection.
ELEMENTALS IN THE ISLES
In the island regions of Argon, the Guardians are known as Elementals. These entities are believed to embody the forces of nature, such as water, earth, air, and fire. Rituals and offerings may be made to the Elementals at sacred sites throughout the islands, seeking their guidance and blessings.
FÆS ON THE MAIN CONTINENT
On the main continent of Argon, the Guardians are known as Fæs. These powerful entities are believed to control the forces of nature, and are revered as intermediaries between humans and the natural world. Rituals and offerings may be made to the Fæs at sacred sites throughout the continent, seeking their guidance and blessings.
In each of these regions, the Old Ways are deeply intertwined with the local culture and environment. While the names and forms of the Guardians may be different, the fundamental beliefs and practices are similar across these different cultures.
KAMI IN THE NORTHERN ARCHIPELAGO
In the Northern archipelago of Argon, the Guardians are known as Kami. These powerful beings are believed to inhabit the mountains, forests, and rivers, and are revered as protectors of the natural world. Offerings and rituals may be made to the Kami at sacred sites in the Northern Archipelago, seeking their blessings and protection.