carving the wedge just-so allows for a subtle curve that sets easier beneath the thumb, making for a crisper "snap" at the moment of use, which is key—that's most of what you're going for here, because although it carries with it specifically spiritual properties, the ritual of the sound is what we've worked even harder to ingrain into them. the sound is devastating to them, because it means, "lo, holy work can begin." there used to be words for this, for how the mind could be seduced so easily by sound.
we use soapstone because of its abundance (rendering it easy to obtain in many locales), and for the distinctively soft sounds it makes when broken. there is no confusing it for branch-break, footfall in loam, or patter of displaced rubble. it also yields easily to the blade, specifically of our design, making it easier for one to render dozens from a fist-sized block in a handful of time. the stones are important, but never lose your blade.
after the trance, or as the sound begins to settle in their dome, the stones have done their work and it is time for you to settle into your clerical role. if not already, the beltloops on your left leg must be tightened, prohibiting "jumps", and protecting the spiritual mound, which you will then uncover with the removal of your left glove. you know the prayers, but maybe you have forgotten their significance—how long has it been since you were dipped in the river of the alder's glade? the finger, our spiritual mound, is our ear to the maker's wish. so long as we keep it, we are bound to his will and cannot turn from it.
with the spiritual mound, draw the lingua rasa before the entranced and lay them lengthwise across. in time, you will come to understand the greater conceits behind this, but for now it suffices that you do this work for those envenomed in soul and bear your work out with honesty and love.
anyway, i've finished roasting the fish, so let's eat.
