In regards to something involving the main cast

[Rulakir]

Alkaios: Vessels within which life once flowed; cheated of purpose, stilled and cold. Unto the land you now return, the fuel 'pon which new life shall burn.

There's no reason to hold a eulogy if the only purpose is to "expedite aetherial dissipation".

Maira: That was a beautiful service. I like to think it brought some joy to their departed souls, much as one feels when receiving a thoughtful gift.
Charmion: Yes, the flowers were the perfect addition. How fortunate we are to have this knowledgeable familiar in our midst!
Sokles: We must return and commit this event to parchment while it remains fresh in our minds─a potential shift in our traditions is a historical moment worth recording.

They're merely modifying an already existing tradition with the addition of flowers the WoL suggested.

The whole premise of this thread is based on OP coming to a different conclusion reading the text of the MSQ. I still don’t know how he took our reaction from that scene as “adamant and shocked”.

Interpreting tone of dialog is one thing. Claiming quest text doesn't say what it says is entirely another.

[Jandor]

Interpreting tone of dialog is one thing. Claiming quest text doesn't say what it says is entirely another.

The quest text doesn't say eulogy, funeral, or rites though.

They also end the quest by acting like it's a brand new thing they've just done, which leaves me wondering if Alkaios always says an incantation like that, or if he gussied it up a bit because of the extra effort everyone else was putting in.
The flowers are a nice touch and all, but calling them 'a historical moment worth recording' seems a bit much.