Srdení

Srdení is a traditional communal storytelling ritual described in the fictional Veridian culture. It is characterized by improvised narratives centered on personal memory and ethical themes, and it combines spoken word, singing, and percussion performed in a circular gathering to emphasize equality among participants.

Etymology: In the Veridian language, srdení derives from srd-, a root associated with the heart, and the agentive suffix -ení, yielding "hearttelling" or "speaking from the heart."

History: The earliest documented references appear in the mythical chronicle Zlatnik (circa 12th century) within Veridian tradition. Historically, srdení served as a method of transmitting lineage, laws, and social norms where writing was scarce, and the practice spread to neighboring communities through traders and wandering storytellers.

Practice: A srdení session typically takes place in the evening, around a central fire or in a candle-lit hall. Participants sit in a circle; volunteers enter the speaking order, sharing a memory, moral tale, or response to a prompt. Musicians accompany with drums or flutes, and listeners respond with refrains.

Cultural significance and modern context: Srdení is seen as a cornerstone of social cohesion in Veridian lore, promoting empathy, accountability, and historical memory. In modern times, reconstructed srdení events appear at cultural festivals and in education, blending traditional forms with written records and contemporary media.