The Beckoning

Folloch 21

Observed by: Commonplace, worshipers of Selene

The Beckoning is the high holy day to Selene, though it is observed in most human cultures. The day is filled with revelry, drinking and adult worshipers are expected to engage in the sexual act at least once in the day (whether wed or not). In many regions, young women are expected to wear sheer clothing and heavy makeup to beautify themselves, while young men are expected to be anointed by oil and run naked through their city or village. If such a runner is caught by a woman, they are expected to copulate. At a feast at the end of the day, a Rose Queen is selected as the most beautiful woman at the festival and a Green Man is chosen from among the ugliest of men (meant to symbolize Selene and her husband, Podalirius). These two are given the seat of honor at the feast table and, if they copulate that night, it is believed Selene will particularly honor the group in attendance for the following year. In more conservative areas, a kiss can suffice for the sex act.