House of Parting

A lighthouse stood on a small island, seemingly crafted from a sea monster's carapace. The island supported a large, solemn hall made of dark stone, and the lighthouse rose from the hall serving as its tower. A long wooden pier protruded into the flowing waters of the Great River. The island strangely remained firmly in place. The dark lighthouse with its shining spire was actually a windmill, rotating slowly with white fabric. The island appeared surreal, but it was beautiful at night, illuminated by the river's opalescent radiance.^[2]

The interior of the grand hall was both beautiful and modest, reflecting the nation's history, which had not been prosperous for the followers of Weaver, and the limited resources of their descendants. Some decorations and ornaments were inherited from the original Outsiders, who came from the Dream Realm, and some crafted by their Riverborn descendants. Despite being attentive and earnest artisans, the Riverborn were clearly much less sophisticated than their ancestors.^[1]

The House of Parting consisted of the main ceremonial hall, several smaller halls, and a scattering of rooms.^[3]

Those who love them can come to say farewell. They prepare a feast and celebrate. After all is said and done, the weary Riverborn sets sail to go on their last journey.^[1]

The House of Parting is located at the point of Weave that is furthest upstream.^[1]

There are two of these Houses. The other one is the Lower House, located at the furthest point of Weave downstream. It is meant for those who died untimely and are sent downstream to return to the Estuary, the origin of everything.^[1]

• The island's mechanism is on the brink of collapse, but the windmill lightens the burden significantly. The House of Parting had a great water wheel at the back of the island which propels it forward at the same speed as the River pushes it back.^[1]
• The wood used in the hall was made from floating gardens and fields in Weave which has some soil.^[1]
• Those who died untimely are sent downstream to return to the Estuary, the origin of everything.^[1]