The Burning of Innocence

She reminded him of the sun. She moved as if her body was in tune with everything around her, and she listened as if the fire was telling her secrets. There was nothing unnatural about this girl, and yet it felt wrong for her to be inside these caves. Away from the sun, of which she reminded him so.

Burning is an age-related ritual of initiation to maturity. There are five Burning rituals in total, which take place at ages 9, 12, 15, 18, and 21. They are designed to anchor children to reality as they grow to learn important life-lessons. Burning of Innocence is the first step to maturity, and it is when the child is given their Oculus (see below).
Oculus: A talisman charged with one or multiple dreams. It activates if one is chosen to become the apprentice of a member of the Olden circle.
Olden circle: A group of Elders who attend Burning rituals and give their blessings to the children. There are two groups of Elders: Wise Ones and Hopefuls. Only Wise Ones have access to the Book of Will.
Sing-alongs: Twelve beldams singing in high pitch.

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