The ceremony itself was carried out in a manner perfectly in keeping with proper Rokugani theology. The various rites of purification that were rendered somewhat irrelevant by the lack of bodies were nonetheless still engaged in to the degree that made sense given the circumstances. As part of the process, each of the deceased was granted a new name; a kaimyō; written down with great care for all to see. The names grew longer the more accomplished the deceased was, and served the purpose of preventing the return of their spirit should anyone call their name. Given the circumstances, some present might've allowed a sigh of relief to escape their lungs when the process was finally complete. And then again when the final rites of purification and sendoff were finished.
Of course, it was yet to be over; the priestess stepped forward to offer those gathered some final words.
"To a samurai, death in the service of his family or clan, is no great tragedy. It is an honor. More so when it comes in the service of the Empire as a whole. Sacrifice is what defines us as a people. It is what sets us apart from those who are foreign to us. The willingness to sacrifice ourselves for each other and our way of life, and the knowledge that we will be reborn; greater because of it. In this, the men and women we are here to honor have shown themselves to be everything we could have asked of them, and the heavens will acknowledge it as surely as we will. And let us not forget the purpose they have given themselves to. To bring the light of Rokugan beyond the horizon, united as a people. They stood upon the deck of their ships, carrying different names, lords, and ambitions. But when work had to be done, they stood as one. Let us not forget that, and let us honor their sacrifice accordingly."
The words were pretty, though Hikari was not the finest of public speakers perhaps. Still, it might've hit the mark. And if not, well then at least the part where everyone had to sit still and listen was over. With the main ceremony over, individuals were encouraged to pay their respects in private, or with the assistance of Hikari's religious services if need be. There was a small altar set up, with the list of names and incense, that took the place of the deceased themselves.
It was also permitted for people to speak amongst themselves, provided of course they did so at a respectable volume.
Lore: Theology / Intelligence, VOID, Fluff Roll. 2 raises. TN?: 6d10o10k5 41
Perform: Oratory/Awareness, VOID for skill, fluff roll: 4d10o10k3 17
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