EVENT #16: WINTERTIDE - IC EVENT LOG

[abraxasmods]

Event #16 - Wintertide

OOC event plotting | island investigation log

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Previous years have seen political complications arrive during the winter holidays. Luckily, this year appears to be a simpler affair...as much as that's possible for one of the Summoned. Although there are no diplomatic events, the status of the Summoned has grown over the past three years - and that means locals pay particular attention to you during important celebrations, especially if you've earned yourself some Influence.

Festivities start to pick up on DECEMBER 14 and continue until they reach their peak on DECEMBER 21, which coincides with a phenomenon known as The Dimming. During this period, the Singularity goes dormant and magic wanes. Celebrations continue in the following days until the Singularity gains its full strength.

For the island investigation taking place on December 29, click HERE.
NOTE: The island investigation log includes a DECISION for all characters who participated in Event #12 regardless of if they've returned to the island. Please read this section even if your character isn't participating in the excursion.

Local Festivities

Customs vary between nations, but no matter where you reside, you'll be encouraged to play a role. You're not limited to what the locals are doing, either! If there are any traditions from your home world you miss or want to share with your friends, you're welcome to do so. Teach each other songs from home, make your best approximation of a classic holiday dessert, or if the spirit of generosity compels you, you can even donate gifts and food to the less fortunate.

Player-organized open events are described HERE. Take a look if you'd like to attend or contribute to any of the available plots.

Thorne: The Dimming

Throughout the Kingdom of Thorne, the Dimming begins. Held in harmony with the annual cycle of the seasons and the slide of the Singularity into temporary dormancy, the Dimming is a celebration of two halves. The mood is generally somber and reflective in the days leading to the winter solstice itself, with the promise of a fantastic explosion of life, light and renewal waiting on the other side.

General Activities

◎ Around the city of CASTLE THORNE, horse-drawn sleigh rides take you through a picturesque route of freshly fallen snow and breathtaking mountain views while you enjoy some mulled wine. Rides are free for the Summoned. Many will try to entice you into their carriage. It's good for business to have given one of you a ride! As you go about town, you might attract notice. If you're lower on the Influence scale, you have a chance of going unbothered. If you're at 4 or higher, you're unlikely to escape attention. People will buy you a drink, ask you about life in the castle, or want to see you demonstrate your magic while theirs has waned.

◎ In BORREL, the Winding of the Thread involves a single cord wound throughout the city. Hopeful residents write wishes on colorful ribbons, then hang them on the cord. While large wishes are often only symbolically taken, smaller wishes, such as a new scarf or a friend to have tea with, can be granted by generous souls. And who might that generous soul be? Why, you! If you're so inclined, you can take a ribbon as a promise to fulfill that wish. You can put up a wish of your own, too, of course. Maybe a fellow Summoned will answer it?

◎ In NOTT, one of the frozen ponds has been smoothed over for locals to go skating while other ponds are open for ice fishing. When you're ready to take a break, you can enjoy hot drinks, crisp ales, and Nott's famous fish pies. Merchants are busy during this time, so if you need a little money, most will pay you to run an errand, help stock their shops, or mind the kids for a couple of hours. Residents in Nott are especially happy to meet you after all you've done.

Main Events

Awakening of Magicks
Castle Thorne | Dec. 21

The burden whereby a Thornean mage sacrificed their life to offer a magical casket to the Singularity is no longer necessary, thanks to the Summoned. The Awakening of Magicks is a new and more uplifting ceremony held in one of the city's enchanted gardens. At the center stands a beautifully decorated topiary tree shaped to resemble the Singularity. Though lined with ribbons and holly, it's completely unlit.

Throughout the evening, you can enjoy delicious food, soft music, and a gift basket of Thorne's finest wines, desserts, and soothing potions. It's an ideal time to exchange presents or take a stroll around the winter-themed garden. Important aristocratic families will be there, and they all seem very curious about your presence.

At the end of the night, the Summoned are gathered by the King and Queen. Here, High Mage Ambrose Rhett will guide you in a spell to cast firelight from your palm, releasing a flickering ball of light towards the tree and illuminating the "Singularity" itself. The ceremony symbolizes your unique role in Abraxas and your ability to have your magic at a time when all other Thorneans are in darkness. The tree will remain lit until the real Singularity gains its full strength.

Light of Many Moons
Borrel | Dec. 18-20

Less a formal event and more an enticing phenomenon, locals gather annually on Borrel's seas to watch the moon jellies light up the ocean beneath their boats. Climb aboard to see for yourself. Boats won't travel out unless at least two people are aboard. Grab yourself a friend or wait to see who joins you as a surprise. The glow lasts only for ten or twenty minutes before it fades.

Stories say that if you glimpse a sea jelly that glows an odd red hue, you have a weight you must cast off by the season's end. Catching sight of this red moon jelly during your ride will cause your thoughts to wander toward something important you've always wanted to do or say. You might gain the courage to act right then and there, or you might do so later with a trusted companion. Afterwards, you feel a great relief.

By the time you're back ashore, you're probably pretty cold. Luckily, Borrel's inns are happy to serve the Summoned on the house during this special occasion. Enjoy a hearty meal and a drink free of charge.

Feast of the New Dawn
Nott | Dec. 27

Usually held in Castle Thorne, Nott has requested to host the feast this year to show their appreciation for the Summoned. A more humble affair than the castle's royal banquets, the town's best bakers, cooks, and brewers have come together to provide a feast of stews, grilled fish, and an array of pies and tarts.

Lyle Vela, Lord of Representatives in Nott, will attend. He won't have time for long conversations, but he'll be happy to learn your name and shake your hand. If you'd like to ask him a quick question or give him a message, you're welcome to do so. Just take care what you say. Although Nott's dissatisfaction with the monarchy isn't a secret, the town is hosting you on behalf of Castle Thorne, so be sure to keep things diplomatic.

Ask a question or pass a message to Lyle Vela here.
There are no Influence requirements.

Free Cities: Festival of Enlightenment

Enlightenment and freedom from dependency on magic have come once more to the Free Cities. The phrase "Lights for Enlightenment!" is on every citizen's lips. Extravagant parties bring a buzz everywhere. Many creators flock to show off their work, whether that's a new invention or the season's trendiest fashions. Outfits emphasize the concept of illumination, using reflective fabrics and gems. Vendors offer little mechanical toys, decorations, and jewelry. Some glow due to naturally occurring substances, some have chemical reactions activated with the press of a button.

General Activities

◎ Each year in CADENS, special light-up carriages take eager citizens on set routes around the city to view the street decorations. Most importantly, each wagon is sponsored and designed by a particular association to draw attention to a cause or their services. The Academies, Fort Wilbridge, and the Free City Theater Company are common sponsors. This year, the Summoned will have a carriage to decorate using lights, metal bits, and glowing paints. Add your unique touch to the design if you like. The carriage is running regardless, so you should probably try to put something on it.

◎ In AQUILA, you'll have your pick of galas to attend from garden parties to fashion shows. Some of the most wealthy and influential people are out and about, and enterprising individuals are eager to make friends in high places. Naturally, this includes the Summoned, who've become a unique feature in the Free Cities. If you're lower on the Influence scale, you have a chance of going unbothered. If you're at 4 or higher, you're unlikely to escape attention. Designers will try to get you to wear something of theirs to show it off while locals will invite you to their exclusive cocktail parties or try to introduce themselves. You might even find some gossip or story about you in the papers the next day.

◎ In LIBERTAS, the party comes to you. Festivities spill out onto the streets at all hours of the day, sweeping up everyone who steps into the city. Art is displayed on every corner while outdoor stages are set up for concerts, poetry readings, and plays. Why not take to the stage yourself? Charity work is also common. Entertainers visit orphanages, and volunteers deliver food to those in need. All of them could use some help. Residents in Libertas are especially happy to see you after all you've done.

Main Events

Circus of the Sciences
Cadens | Dec. 17-19

In front of Portham Hall, great inventors gather to show off their creations, each vying to win the coveted prize of government funding. All inventions are on display to the public and judged by a team of Ministry officials. The harshest of them is Aleksander G. Klingel, known for his vital contributions to Cadens' technological advancements. This year, he's returned to solicit the Summoned in an experiment you might recognize if you've been around. It'll take only a minute! All you have to do is hold a metal rod. The tingling can grow painful if you hang on too long, but Aleksander won't stop you if you're determined.

Inventor Clarice Amaury has also created what she calls a Soul Mirror (trademarks pending). Designed as a therapeutic tool, the beautiful scenic cube behaves almost like a genuine biome. Clarice claims that watching the soothing forest within will help you reflect on your inner self. You're certainly relaxed and contemplative after you've interacted with the cube and your thoughts begin to turn toward something important you've wanted to do or say - which might be to the stranger next to you or a friend. Follow your heart, and you could find it feeling much lighter.

Gala of Illumination
Aquila | Dec. 20

The most influential party in the whole of the Free Cities, the Gala is held in the Gallery of Fine Arts, an architectural marvel that's converted into an enchanting ballroom. Well-known figures will be here, from famous performers to wealthy patrons to powerful politicians. Getting an invitation to this coveted event isn't easy, but the Summoned have a standing invitation. To entice important guests - including you - organizers offer free styling assistance, one-of-a-kind designer pieces to borrow for the night (you'll need to return it after!), and a gift bag containing wine, handcrafted accessories, and exotic desserts. More fancy canapés and drinks await inside, alongside dancing and famous artworks.

Fallon Marsh, Aquila's representative, will attend. With a sharp eye for commerce, he's led the city's economy to blossom during his tenure. He won't have time for long conversations, but he'll be happy to learn your name and shake your hand. If you'd like to ask him a quick question or give him a message, you're welcome to do so. Rumor has it he has something of a rivalry with Aleksander Klingel and Quilleth Kaur, but it's best not to bring that up.

Ask a question or pass a message to Fallon Marsh here.
There are no Influence requirements.

Liberty Charity Auction
Libertas | Dec. 22

Libertas has often been the most community-driven of the cities. This year's Liberty Charity Auction is focused on the children left parentless after the attacks, and the Summoned are encouraged to attend. It'll be held in a performance theater next to the Willow Memorial Park. Quilleth Kaur will give a heartfelt speech in memory of the lives lost before yielding the stage to event organizers. Art pieces, exclusive collectibles like the first draft of a famous manuscript, and painting or acting lessons from the masters of their craft are all up for bid. Some of the more expensive pieces might be out of your price range, but you can bid on smaller items like imperfect sculptures or used tools.

You can sign up to auction off something, as well. Don't worry if you're not highly skilled or don't feel you have much to give. Learning about your unique home world or owning something you've made is an appeal in and of itself. As long as your efforts are sincere, you'll earn a bid to help the children. All proceeds will go to orphanages in the Free Cities.

If you'd rather help behind the scenes, you can organize the items up for bidding, write and deliver invitations to guests before the event, or help serve food and drink to attendees.

Solvunn: Winter Solstice

As the Winter Solstice approaches, spirits in Solvunn are high. Hung across every doorway and window are boughs of holly and large garlands of evergreen decorated with bells, twine, and poinsettia. Small altars adorned with candles glow at dusk. At night, bonfires roar in the middle of town where the adults can mingle. Songs and stories of the Gods are shared.

General Activities

◎ Throughout the PRIMARY SETTLEMENT, you'll be met with open doors wherever you go. Kindly neighbors will invite you out of the cold for a meal or gift you a bounty: mead, bread, scented candles, or even money. It's vital you accept the offerings, though there's no harm in paying it forward. Locals will be happy to take your gifts or accept an invitation from you in return. As you go about the settlement, you might attract notice. If you're lower on the Influence scale, you have a chance of going unbothered. If you're at 4 or higher, you're unlikely to escape attention. People will insist you join them to visit a shrine, ask for a blessing, or request your wisdom with a problem.

◎ In the SECONDARY SETTLEMENT, one key tradition returns: the Goat of All Tidings. A handsome-looking black goat wearing a festive coat made of patchwork tapestries is brought out and set loose to a boisterous chorus of cheers. It'll run freely, waiting to be caught. If you can lay a kiss upon the Goat of All Tidings, good fortune will follow you into the new year. Fail to apprehend and kiss the goat or befall its temper, and misfortune shall be your guide. Be careful! Snow and sleet make for slippery meadows this time of year.

◎ In the TERTIARY SETTLEMENT, preparations for Xeimer's Plunge are taking place. Pickled herring and fresh-caught fish are being collected and placed into bowls carved from antler and bone for the Elders to examine. Only the finest fish will do. Xeimer's shrine features a small pool in which approved offerings of fish are placed. Of course, his shrine must be protected and tidied daily to make sure it's ready for the upcoming Plunge. The herring attracts pests and small predators, which you can help defend the shrine from.

Main Events

Blessing of Light
Primary Settlement | Dec. 20

Known only as The Light, this Guardian of Darkness is a key figure during the darkest days of the year. Along with Xeimer, the Light must be appeased or else the community risks plunging the world into an everlasting winter. In previous years, this involved Elders going from house to house to light the candles placed outside every door in small covered altars.

This year, due to the significant role of the Summoned in Solvunn, you've been asked to accept the task. Since Solvunn believes the Singularity's dormancy is part of a natural cycle, they will not request you use your magic, though you may if the Gods compel you to do so. The candles can be lit with a simple wooden splint. However you decide to do it, though, the important part is that you agree to give your blessing to each home by lighting the candle, then taking the offering placed beside the outdoor altar. The offering is usually a bone charm carved to represent the flaming crown of The Light.

You can turn down the role if you want, but declining to take part will be met with uncertainty, and even a hint of fear. The natives will want to know what they've done to offend you so greatly.

Snowdrop Exchange
Secondary Settlement | Dec. 18-22

Pledging yourself to the Gods is important to Solvunnites, but equally vital is your relationship with your neighbor. The Snowdrop Exchange is about reaffirming those relationships. White drooping snowdrop flowers bloom across the fields of the Secondary Settlement throughout the winter. You'll be encouraged to harvest the flowers and make a small bundle tied with a blue ribbon, then gift the bouquet to another person. This can be someone you want to get to know better or someone who already has a place in your life.

Doing so will cause you to experience a strange warmth in the cold. You find your mind wandering to something important you've always wanted to do or say. You might gain the strength to act right then and there to the person you've pledged to, or you might do so later with somebody else. Once you do, you feel much lighter, as though Xemeir himself has released you from the weight of your worries.

Xeimer's Plunge
Tertiary Settlement | Dec. 21

To make good on their promises, the Council has chosen to hold this year's Plunge in the Tertiary Settlement. Xeimer's Plunge is based on the Herald of the Frost's love of the winter waves. Participants strip down and dive or run straight into the freezing Hydra Gulf to join him on his swim. Don't fret! You'll get thick blankets, hot cider, and a roaring bonfire to gather around afterwards. While there's a desire to appease the Old God, the event is also about accepting a thrilling challenge, something the locals love to do.

Rowan March, a member of the Council, will attend. Known for keeping the peace between farms, Rowan is a familiar face to all of Solvunn. He won't have time for long conversations, but he'll be happy to learn your name and shake your hand. If you'd like to ask him a quick question or give him a message, you're welcome to do so. Rumor has it there was conflict between him and former Council member Josselyn Creed - now disgraced and executed - but you'd be wise not to discuss Josselyn during this happy occasion.

Ask a question or pass a message to Rowan March here.
There are no Influence requirements.

Oleuni Square

Summoned who were here for the previous winter will remember Nocwich's role in the celebrations, mediating a discussion in Luna for nation officials. This year, Nocwich has taken a backseat, but since the holidays often bring a good amount of money to shops and markets, Nocwich will open for visitors from December 14-20 and from December 23-28. To conserve magic, portals will close on the 21st and 22nd.

Only Oleuni Square will be open. Luna and Ikorr are both closed. Lady Elin is also not available during this period.

The Marketplace

Making up the majority of the Square, the Marketplace consists of a series of outdoor stalls and a few actual shops. Whatever you can think of can be found here, from jewelry to clothing to food and wine. There are fancier eateries where one can order a meal and cheap street vendors. Much of what's available is of fairly high quality. If you're looking to buy some gifts or simply spend time with friends from other nations, here's a good place to do so.

All of the usual sights and sounds can be found, with a few additions for the season.

◎ THE MAIN STAGE. Musical performances and plays will celebrate the Winter Solstice. Merchants will bring around roasted chestnuts and cider for attendees to enjoy. Dancing is encouraged!

◎ SHOPS & STALLS. Shops will cater to those searching for presents or that touch of something special to their outfit for an upcoming party. Take a look at winter-themed jewelry, fine fabrics, and bouquets of flowers found only in Nocwich. Or what about a glowing tattoo for a permanent mark?

◎ EATERIES. To attract customers, eateries and inns will offer special items for the holidays. Try uniquely spiced mead and cocktails, taste exquisitely crafted desserts, or order the chef's platter for dinner. You can also book a romantic holiday room for you and an important someone.

The Arcanis

The height of luxury and the pride of Luna, The Arcanis is a "cruise liner" that first made its introduction last year. The decks are spacious and could be mistaken for a grand opera house. The ship seems suspiciously bigger on the inside, but locals will tell you that it looks as expected - nothing unusual to see.

Though The Arcanis is normally docked in Luna, the werewolves have moved it to the shores of Oleuni Square for this occasion. It offers an eatery, gambling lounges, and spas, as well as the following unique features that take place only in the winter.

◎ SKYLINE SEA

Once a year, during the Dimming on the night of December 20, creatures of the deep sea take to the skies. Legend has it these creatures never used to reside in the water, but the Singularity's growing strength forced them to migrate deep under the ocean due to the interference with song frequencies.

Most of the marine life are whales and sea jellies, but following behind them is the fearsome golden serpent and its friendlier but no less gigantic companion the rainbow carp. These creatures will not attack. They will simply migrate across the sky and vanish into the stars.

You can watch this incredible phenomenon on the deck of The Arcanis or on the shores. You'll get a thick fur blanket to protect you from the cold. Those watching are encouraged to make a wish and then share that wish with one other person. The Lunae believe sharing a wish with another will help it come true.

◎ CHARLIE THE TURTLE

Charlie, affectionately referred to as Admiral Chuck by the captain, is an ancient turtle that's resided on the ship since its first voyage. He's often seen lumbering through the upper and lower decks at an average turtle pace. Staff will claim that they've seen him speed by out of the corner of their eye, but none have proof.

Legend has it that Chuck may have witnessed the Sinking of Tornis or perhaps even once was a resident creature of the now-vanished city of Tornis. No proof of this exists, either, but turtles are extraordinarily long-lived so he may have been there.

While he isn't very talkative during the rest of the year, the winter cheer has made him open up again, especially if you bring him food. Those gifted in animal speech or other unique communication abilities can have a conversation with Chuck.

To converse with Admiral Chuck, reply HERE with what you'll say and an answer of some sort may come. Keep in mind that he is, in the end, just a regular turtle, so his insight may be limited.

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Comments

[philancer]

You know...

[ Sylvain sidles up to him somewhere later in the evening, glass of wine in one hand. He's shed the outer layers of his outfit for the night, so the top is now more the intricate mesh Hilda had crafted. It's fairly warm in here, however, so he doesn't seem bothered by the exposure - literally.

He casts Astarion a sideways glance, however, lips quirked into a faint smirk as he takes a slow, measured sip of his wine. ]

For someone who seems to enjoy parties so much, you spent an awful lot of it lurking on the sidelines.

[ancunin]

[ Well, well... that outfit's certainly a choice. Astarion gives him an appraising look that can be interpreted as appreciative. ]

Is that what you think? [ He feigns ignorance, touching a hand to his chest with a purposely wide-eyed look. ] Oh, no. I'm merely entranced by all of the... fine art on display.

[ He prefers traditional over abstract modern, you see. ]

[philancer]

[ Hilda and Jesper have it out for him, he's convinced.

Or they just wanted to ogle him all night. That's very likely, too. At least he has the broad physique to pull it off and look more intimidating than vulnerable, like he might have once.

But he gives Astarion's play at innocence a wry look, one eyebrow arching upwards in clear skepticism. ]

There's plenty of fine art out on the dance floor, as well, you realize. In fact, you could be one of them. [ A smirk, as he holds out a hand in patient invitation. Is that a hint of a dare in amber eyes? ] Care to check it out?

[ancunin]

[ His gaze follows Sylvain's hand as it extends toward him, and he studies it for a moment, deciding. ]

If you insist. [ he teases. His gloved hand accepts Sylvain's, the cloth a barrier between his corpse cool skin and the warmth of his living partner. He'll allow the younger man to lead him to the dancefloor where so many others are twirling about in pairs. He grins at Sylvain again. ]

I must ask, though - who did your outfit?

[ It takes quite a bit of confidence to strut around in something so... deliciously enticing. ]

[philancer]

[ Sylvain has never lacked in confidence, but even this was asking a little much. Then again, he wasn't the least dressed person here. But he was very glittery.

But he laughs as he leads Astarion out onto the dance floor, tugging him in as he places a hand at his hip, the other one keeping hold of his gloved hand as he guides him into the opening steps of a dance. He doesn't know if dances are the same in Astarion's world, but he's always been a talented dancer and a good lead, so he takes care in making sure the other man can keep up. ]

I'm not sure whether Hilda or Jesper is more responsible, to be honest. So I'm just blaming both of them. Hilda likes anything shiny and Jesper... is Jesper. They're a dangerous duo.

[ But it's said with such fondness, it's easy to tell he doesn't mind. ]