The Maidenfall & Vernal Restoration

Two separate seasonal festivals, celebrating and commiserating the worship of the two sides of a beleaguered, tragic and romanticised goddess of the wild spring, Eostara, and her dark counterpart Persephone. The former, beginning upon the autumnal equinox & the latter occuring at the vernal equinox. Many hold it to be the reasons as to why the days are longer & brighter within the peak of summer, and why the winter days are shortened into near perpetual night. Involving a mythical tryst between the Spring Maiden Eostara & the god of sunlight, Pelor the Dawnfather. Many different cultures and kingdoms view this under different matters, but observe it in similar ways across the world.

MYTH & LEGEND

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Long ago, the dark despot and betrayer known as Bane, sought a concubine to fulfill the role as his queen to his realm - denied such virtues by the other gods for his tyrannical rule. He would accept none other but the most beautiful & one who held the most potential... which led to his kidnapping of the Spring Goddess Eostara. A fair maiden of golden-white hair, innocence, and the bringer of new life - she caught his eye amongst many within the divine pantheon, and with the aid of another dark deity, tricked her to play within an unassuming wood. From the shadows of the grove, Bane charged upon his dark chariot and whisked the goddess away in a binding net forged from divine metal. He captured her and brought her to his grand bastion within the Underworld - hoping that she would become the mother of his grand and greatest creations & experiment, the Goblinoids. With her absence, the cycle of the Spirit of Life was disturbed, and the world could no longer bring new life through the years. Perturbed by the decadence of life upon the world under his immortal and bright watch, Pelor the Dawnfather searched for Eostara - through chance and a collaboration with other deities, he was led to discover that the Strife Emperor was responsible for the interruption in the natural cycle, and the Season Riders waned and waxed with power. Pelor left his throne from the Bright City, taking leave of his love Erathis, on a quest to retrieve the Spring Maiden and restore the cycle of life to its natural course - his ventures took him to the Lower Planes & across the soul-riven River Styx, bartering and battling the evils from these planes until he reached Bane's Bastion. This pilgrimage darkened the days amongst the world, where the Dawnfather strayed far from his throne, his powers reduced and his influence waning - bringing darker nights and an absence of warmth during the winter season. Upon his arrival, through the aid of the likes of Maevereicki & other divinities, he found that the innocent spirit of Eostara had been transformed and corrupted into a cruel and unforgiving mistress, Persephone, Queen of the Underworld. It was not Bane that stopped him from retrieving the once fair maiden, but Persephone herself, unleashing her dark cruelties against the Dawnfather and ensnaring him under her sway, allowing evil and darkness to pervade across the world and life and light to extinguish during the winter. Upon the climactic battle, the Dawnfather stood firm against Perspehone, not a trained figure, and through his light, summoned the good within the fair maiden and returned her to her fair state as Eostara. They returned across the Lower Planes and the River Styx, though her heart waned, though shielded from the darkness within her essence remained divided and split between the two. Eostara, burdened with great purpose to renew the life that had waned in her absence, first summoned the flowers and guided Pelor's light to melt the frost of the winter, to grant warmth in the hearts of mortals that had only seen the dark for so long, and to bring forth life in all its forms from slumber and from isolation. New babies were blessed and born, children grew, youth sprang and beauty blossomed in the lands. Spring had truly returned - and she took her leave of the Dawnfather as she rode her mount over the world, spreading life and spirits of hope throughout the world, and he returned to the Bright City of Hestavar. Through the summer and autumn she blossomed back to her old fair form, granting new life and colour back to the world, but at the same time her dark side Perspehone worked at her spirit - the fire of her joys weakened and dwindled, and her form took a darker turn. Her heart had thawed with the aid of Pelor, but quickly it froze back into her cruel and dark form come the autumns end (hence it's namesake 'Maidensfall' or 'Fall'), as winter approached, life became less energetic and fulfilling - and she departed back to the Underworld to work her schemes and ploys to twist life to a darker turn and attempt to ruin the life that had blossomed under Eostara's guidance. Once again, Pelor, eternally watchful and bound to preserving the life of the world, resumed his quest to return the Queen of the Underworld to her innocence as the Spring Maiden - vigilant and undaunted in his duty. The world slowly turning to darkness and cold was a small price to pay to bring the return of the spirit of life, come the beginning of spring. Each time his quest was met with challenges & ploys from those he had met before, each time he faced and proved himself worthy to continue, and each time he faced off against the darkness of Persephone.
Thus the tale of how the suns light dwindles in winter, followed by the dwindling of life and warmth from the autumn onwards, and how it rises with the renewal of life in spring within Aetheus.

THE MAIDENS FALL (Autumnal Equinox)

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The Maidens Fall is a grand collection of autumnal festivals across the world. Occuring on the day in which the nights and day reaches equal length, (the Fall of Eostara) where dark of the night dominates over the light of day, marking the beginning of Autumn. The festival is the premise for great change and new opportunities to arise in preparation for the coming dark and winter. But it is also a time in which the dark deities gain precedence, out of the fear and uncertainty that follows from the festival and equinox, from the dismissal of the light. Due to the uncertainty and fear that arises from this period, from the beginning of the Fall many villages and towns follow a curfew of respect and hospitality where strangers are allowed to claim sanctuary within a settlement so long as the sun is up. Once the sun sets, they may no longer enter these vilagers, and those whom attempt to seek access will be turned back and treated as potential threats, denied entry into the villages. Following this period, it is believed that the forgotten dead will come from the River Styx to haunt the living, called forth by the Fallen Maiden & unswayed by the fading lights of Pelor. Thus, most make it a priority to honour the dead & remember their lives, as a custom they are buried with their personal belongings, a token of remembrance from their loved ones or friends, and an offering of coins to help them grant passage through the River Styx. The period of the Maiden's Fall begins from the Autumnal Equinox and lasts as long as the Winter Solstice.
Whilst recognised by most of the faith's of the world and largely popular, it is looked upon by the more moralistic as a foreboding festival where people's spirit begin to dwindle, leading towards hedonism, mischief, heathenry, and the glorification of the dark. This old celebration proceeds despite this, and many know that local priests participatie in the Maidens Fall as well, whether to dismay people's growing fears or to join in their revelry.

CELEBRATIONS

There are several different days of celebration and festivals during Maidensfall:

• The Autumn Vigil
• The Soothing Morrow (Soth-Moro)
• The Everywhim Carnivale
• The Festival of Falling Leaves
• The Hogslaughter

The Autumn Vigil

The way tradition dictates for this day to be celebrated and partake in a sombre remembrance, filled with expectation and to uplift the spirits of many who seem anxious. The night before, when the first autumn full moon is first sighted, everyone sleeps early to rise before the next dawn to gather at the nearest shrine of their village or a temple within town. Following the night of the full moon, each day for seven days, the local priest awakes before dawn, adorning a laurel crown of autumn leaves and dutifully lights the first large candle of twelve as the dawn begins to mark the passing of each hour of daylight before night arrives - counting the hours before the night approaches. This duty is fulfilled by a Radiant, a cleric of Pelor, as the position of the Candlebearer - the first lighting takes place amongst an open space within the town or village, or upon a hill, or inside a temple; it matters not where, so long as it is a place where people can gather together. After the first candle is lit, the communal leader or a nobleman, otherwise known as the Speaker begins a public eulogy, as the crowd brings their own candles to be lit by the first candle. The Speaker is expected to recount the events that have brought success, joy and prosperity from the year thus far - giving praise and respect to farmers, artisans and craftsmen for their hard-work. But, they touch lightly upon topics that may upset or dishearten the crowd, such as deaths, disasters, crimes and general losses of the community - rather they would try to spin these into moments of reflection and steps of progress, showing how resilient and enduring the people are, and should take pride that they still remain with them. This helps to embolden the people, and the speaker invites those with their own candles or wicks to tell their stories and moments of pride they wish to share with the community, giving rise and great cheers to them all as they conclude. After the first candle starts to dwindle, the second is carried and lit by the Candlebearer with the remaining fire from the first candle, this practice continues with each and every subsequent candle. Once the third candle is lit, the local priest hands out a portion of seeds to each of those that have gathered in the crowd from the alms stores of the temple or from the travelling bands of Eostaran priests (Morningstars), each enough to grow enough crops to make a loaf of bread - encouraging the spread of new life, but to nurture it in the coming winter, as a symbol of the communities endurance and hope that once grown it will be sown to be able to share with others of their family come the return of spring. It is a promise that people wish to keep, to hope that they will survive the coming winter. The lighting of the candles continues as the community returns to their work throughout the day, but come the twelth and last candle, all are expected to return back to their homes- marking the beginning of the night curfew for those working beyond the protections of the villages or towns limits, and for children and families to keep safe within their homes. Within their homes, during the night, the Morningstars gather together with torches to be lit by the last candle, and don masks of autumn leaves and proceed to knock upon the doors of the community through the night as families enjoy a feast of bread together. They ask those who are willing to participate in the Vigil within autumn until the return of spring, to take up arms and defend their communities from the terrors and dangers of the night when the cold comes. For those that accept, they take hold of the torches lit by the last candle and swear a promise to Pelor, that they will be the light in the dark until the dawn returns, they swear a promise to Eostara, that they shall stand until the cold has ended and the green will return, and finally a promise to Vernoron, that they will commit to this on his holy season for better or for worse. Once this has been sworn, or denied, that they should gather once again to the Candlebearer and recieve their rites - they are then given the torches to keep alight through the night by whatever means they can. On the second day, the Candlebearer returns - and the community gathers again, and all those who have sworn to become part of the Autumn Vigil, swear these oaths once more in front of witnesses whilst carrying the torches they have kept lit through the night - the one that shines the brightest before the dawn is said to carry the blessing of all the Gods, and even Vernoron, the fickle god, is said to smile down upon them. Earning the title as the "Torchkeeper", not holding much benefit other than the respect of the community, and has the role to light the first candle to mark the beginning of dawn and the end of the Vigils watch. It acts as the symbol that the light would never waiver even in the dark, and someone is always watching over the community. The Vigil guard are formed, and equipped with their armour and weapons, and allowed to take their rest, ready to begin heir duty as the watchers of the night, and keepers of the light of the candles from there on out. Meanwhile, the rest of the community begins gathering the remaining stocks of seeds and crops from the harvest.
On the third day, the community gathers the necessary stocks of timber from the surrounding areas or prepares lantern oils for the Autumn Vigil - farmers reap the crops and prepare to sow the winter crop seeds into the fields.
On the fourth day, the community begin to recieve the fortunes of fortune-tellers and soothsayers that gather in preparation for the Soothing Morrow, or Soth-Moro. It is the beginning of rememberance for those who have died and their spirits have passed away into the afterlife - consulting the priests, soothsayers and fortune-tellers in order to give final rites to those that may have been lost, presumed dead, and so they can give their final rites. These spiritual mediums attempt to make contact with the dead, though the Morningstars do not approve of this, as this invites the potential of Persephone, their goddesses dark and corrupt ego. Most of these mediums are not essentially true, and act as facades to grant families and loved ones peace in their unassured and grieving states. But others do reach contact with spirits that have felt betrayed, or are being kept from their restful passing to the afterlife. To which the ceremonies to uncover the nature of this are performed, and require the aid and rites of exorcists; by this point the day usually is over. For those that have attained peace and grieve for their families, they mark these in different ways. For instance, gravestones or stone effigies are erected without a burial of a body, and they take a candle lit from the first dawn candle, and give prayers and eulogies to those that did not survive. The community gathers for these moments of mourning, and share what they can to the families that may be struggling - to honour those that have passed away. This takes the form of gifts, a spare set of clothes, a new bed sheet, a new hoe or farming tool. For children who have lost their parents, some of the community members may adopt them, or they are taken with the Morningstars and their fellow caravans and taught the ways of the Spring Maiden. They teach these children that despite their hard beginnings that things may change for the better, granting them hope.
On the fifth day, those who have contacted the spirits of the dead engage in an isolated period with their own source of light (candle, torch, fireplace) and spend a day without work, remembering the fallen, the dead and the lost. They may make effigies out of grasses, hay, molded from clay, carved from wood or masoned from stone. They lay these out on a worktop, a nightstand or a windowsill, and offer a plate of food, a jug of water or ale, and always grant them spare coin (as a means to bribe the ferryman) - hoping that these offerings would appease the spirits. Each may write a personal letter to the lost, and then burn it with the candle lit by the first dawn candle. Hoping that while Pelor carries his journey through the River Styx, that it would help pass on the message to the lost souls on his journey, and guide them back into the afterlife.
On the sixth day, the village or town prepare a great feast (The Feast of the Autumn Vigil) to commemorate the fallen that year, and for the volunteers of the Autumn Vigil, now donned in their armour and gear and give thanks to them. This celebration hosts the playing of the Vigil song, taking different variations by different regions, sang in unison by the Morningstars as a sign of good luck to them, but others remind them of the charges they hold as protectors, warning both them and the communities of the dangers, the tragedies of fools that have ignored these warnings & caused havoc to the communities and their loved ones. Some spark more optimistic hope, praising them and that the light of Pelor shines alongside them, and that their vigil is warmed by the lasting lights of Pelor, who is also on the path of darkness to return the light and life to the world.
On the seventh day, the Candlebearer brings forth the last candles, realising that the daylight is growing shorter, and that the night is beginning to take hold. With each candle lit, the weapons and armour are blessed and cleansed of any dark or ill intent, marked with the melted wax of the twelve candles. The Autumn Vigil volunteers officiate their oaths once again, organised into their respective patrols, made aware of the dangers that face the community around them. The Candlebearer warns them of the potential dangers that might seek to break their lines, but also, warns them that they have to be aware of those within the community as well. A sad truth not made aware in the community, but when winter comes and food may become scarce, the people may begin to riot - and desperate people may become a threat to the community. Winter is not the only cruel thing in the world, and people are no less capable of being the very same, cold and cruel.

Everywhim Carnival

During the beginning of autumn, in the first weeks or later weeks when the leaves of trees begin to turn their green colours to autumn colours, the Carnivale time follows usually before the weather turns cold and nights begin to darken. The Everywhim Carnival begins and lasts for a full week, so those that could not participate due to their own reasons can partake on a later date (or recover from the previous night and 'go again'). Here, the community, merchants, traders, artisans and tavernkeeps prepare and opens a faire within their streets or upon an open field - yellow, brown, orange and red coloured tents are raised with coloured banners, open stalls, delightful artworks and painted platforms begin. The carnival does not begin until dusk, where everyone begins to adorn themselves in masks, homemade or crafted, shaped in all sorts of ways. Demons, angels, monsters, myths, heroes or otherwise - whatever the people want to transform themselves into for these nights they do in the carnival, everyone reinvents themselves, so to speak. It is a celebration to indulge in excessive amounts of alcohol, meats and foods or even sexual desires before the winter forces those to ration and preserve their stocks, by the end of winter there was usually a food shortage & many communities and commoners use this festival as a time to eat well & let loose their frustrations for the last time before winter arrives. It is a time to loosen oneself and join in the public spirit of the holiday, to show one's individuality but join in the public unity during the parades and public parties by donning masks, elaborate costumes and shows of colour - marking the last appearance of summer and autumn colours before donning the warm furs and coats for winter.
Most commonsense and moral priests do not condone the activities during this celebration, as the social norms and rules become reversed in this jubilant and chaotic celebration. The Morningstars of Eostara do not condone this, particularly because they believe that people become possessed by the spirit of Persephone - most of these carnivals end up inspiring a misguided sense of ease. Most youths, and even some adults, treat this time like it is the 'end of the world', and thus go all out and cause a ruckus or all out chaos. Others use this opportunity to mock and laugh at those that they despise, usually this is directed at the elite, who look down upon commoners, thus they dress in elaborate and satirical outfits and take on humorous and embarrasing exagerrations of these folk. Despite what people are told, that these carnivals will be watched by guards and uphold the law, peoples drunken antics and lowered inhibitions always result in fights, drama, crimes of passion, stealing, robbery. For the excluded and the ostracized, its an opportunity to be part of the community, as all seek to enjoy this time - no one is really looked down upon and excluded in these events. People truly believe that they can do what they want on these nights. So once these nights are concluded, priests try to preach to the masses to forgo these celebrations and remain steadfast in anticipation for the winter, remain strong and hopeful for a better tomorrow. Most of the time it falls on deaf ears. But, those who do show restraint, or wish to redeem themselves, re-commit themselves through a solemn promise that helps themselves and their community. Usually following with a promise to forgo or give up a certain object, activity or provision to aid the community in preserving oneself readily for the winter periods. They refer to these, somewhat humorously, as Antiwhims, or Oaths of Whimsy. Many take the Everywhim Festival as an opportunity to release their frustrations - many competitions, fighting circles, satirical costumes of the ruling class or leaders open and many merchants open their stores for all to see and find.
The predominant mood of these celebratons, particularly after a harvest has been successful, as a gladness for the fruits of the earth (the most recent harvest) mixed with a certain melancholy linked to the imminent arrival of harsh weather (the fear of winter, predatory beasts in the night, snow and frost).
A particular commodity and tradition in these events are those who can come up with the best, most humorous, and even the scariest costumes and masks possible - Halflings take this celebration seriously, as it is in the likeness of their trickster patron Maevericki, the spirit of the party and the humble friend of all. From this, special brews known as are usually passed out that are said to grant the imbibers the spirit to pursue their 'everywhim' - though there is nothing in particular that is special, but rather they are mixtures of multiple drinks or spirits. Alcohol, drinks and beverages are shared from all different kinds of communities - Dwarven ales, Halfling ciders, Elven wine, Orc grog, Dragonborn spirits, Tiefling 'Devilbrews' (which are sometimes insidious and can be potentially poisonous). Many folks embrace these drinks in order to let loose, and embrace their own 'darker side', much like how the goddess Eostara, an innocent and fair maiden, transforms into a darker, powerful and seductive being that dances on the edge of death - although, this isn't taken too seriously, but everyone is always intrigued and wants something they shouldn't be having, even if they only think about it. But worshippers of Persephone treat this time as a rite of passage, to let loose their inhibitions and fears and prove themselves during these festivals - abandoning the lives that they had once before and changing into their new 'greater' form. This is why the Carnival always has a dark side - followers of Persephone take it upon themselves to ensure that the promise to make a new world in her image is taken a step closer toward. Imbibing and indulging in their every whim, they believe that they recieve signs from the dark goddess to do her bidding - whether someone is holding back great change and must be eliminated, that people need to be made to embrace their dark desires and do as they please. On these occasions, they tend to lead to Dark Carnivals, people are incited to right, anarchy reigns, crimes are committed & life is turned upside down. Many of these carnivals have ended early in the year by the fact that someone was led to believe that the world should be burned and started anew - leaving the fairground or portions of towns burned to the ground by deliberate arson. Members of the Vigil guard are always on patrol for these troublemakers.

The Festival of Falling Leaves

A spontaneous autumn festival practiced mainly by bards, minstrels, musicians, poets and those devoted to literary arts of their country - they capture the lives lived through the year thus far & begin to show their talents across their countries in a show of pride in their cultures and their memory. It encourages the practice of the arts and history of each societies culture to preserve its traditions whilst adding to their new ones with each new youthful generation - bards tend to call this movement of music and art, 'Living Fables'. But, many believe that it's origins and true purpose lie with creating a sense of unity amongst the people, to bring merriment and joy before the coming chill of the dark nights of winter (People's Anthems) - bringing people together while they are turning their minds inward, to preserve their communities and persevere on through the uncertain times. It's a time of rememberance, and earns its name by the turning of autumn leaves from the summer greenery, where all try to remember the good times and unity, like all falling leaves gather, they paint a pretty picture & spread joy and warnings for the times ahead. Most bards are able to conduct simple ballads or retell epic tales of songs, many in this festival do sing the "Forlorn Dawn", an song epic telling the tale of Pelor and his brave journey into the Lower Planes. Each year a new ballad is invented or added in addendum to song epric, telling of Pelor's heroics and his arduous tasks that he faces going down the River Styx, including the aid of local legends lost in the river, the schemes of fiends and devils, waylaid and forced to go into the wrong direction. Others respin the tale to show how Pelor ventures into the Lower Planes through gateways in countries that are enemies of the locals, showing how they may be party to dealing with devils, particularly through the Deserts of Vashara and Duat'tera. Some patriotic bards openly spin the tale to show that Pelor comes down to their kingdom to ask heroic figures to join him in aiding the Spring Maidens return, or even how the founders of kingdoms were allowed to join this venture and given the promise to raise their kingdoms upon the return of Eostara to the world. Some cultures tend to be more optimistic and avoid the negativity of a harsh winter approaching, whereas others sing tunes of tragedy and changing times to not weaken their spirit but to put them at guard for the times to come. In these less heart-warming songs, they come to be either romantic or tragic tales of lovers, family, heroes or simple workers - starting with a salutation from the singer, a prologue to the story, the story itself, and a moral and farewell. Over time, as people began to travel further and greater distances for these festivals - those that suffer from homesickness or loneliness sing sombre songs to remember their home, talk about oppression and the hardships that outsiders have in the community, criminal life and history - referred to as 'Vagabond Blues'. Newcomers may even hear how farmers work songs in call and response tunes have been made into catchy tunes and shanties to drink to, old classics remade with more energy and vigour and involve the audiences together. This festival occurs wherever bards may be found, at parties, feasts, the open streets of cities and towns, by the roadside or even by secluded campfires. Wherever they may be, these places become part of the revelry, otherwise known as "Fablesides", due to the romanticised or exaggerated stories and songs being told.
Bards that come from different countries and cultures also compete against one another in melodic duels, off-the-cuff acapella, shows, ballad operas or even battle chants at certain venues, open forums or festival sites known as the "Tribute of Talent", winners being determined by a voice vote from the crowd or by a panel of judges at urban centres. The most intruiging feature of these ballads is the mixture and sensationalisation of bardic magic and the combination of multi-lingual song battles from different races and languages - some illegal venues or competitions partake in a battle of Abyssal and Infernal singers, where its considered tradition that if the stage or venue does not become destroyed by the end of a song, then they weren't singing good enough. Some leaders even sponsor these events to become more of a political stage, and show off the talents of their own patriotic countrymen and women - Elves tend to sing songs that stir emotions that conjure memories of beauty, love and 'once in a lifetime' moments, recalling fond memories of simple mundane things that mean so much more in person, competing against Dwarves who shatter that image and stir the crowd to pride, heroism and deep bellowing voices that raise the bravado of men and make the women swoon, though they refuse to acknowledge that these are tales of bromances. The rare few Orcs that do participate in this, not many understand all the lyrics and stanzas, but sing of overcoming great challenges and daring to reach greater heights, but in suprisingly softer moments, they acknowledge their weaknesses and the struggle to restrain their rage - most convince the crowd with their empathetic tales of frustration and anger that letting the rage loose is great and a powerful euphoric feeling, rather than mindless and savage act - as many can relate, usually they sing of a character that everyone knows and wish they can do something about it (bullies, tyrants, parents, a rival). Gnomes, tend to leave the room breathless, as they sing the most intricate of tongue-twisters at rapid speed, or sing songs that propose a great social issue faced by the public and almost like solving a mystery with each stanza and verse, they conclude with an answer in the form of a question, leaving the crowd bewildered and much wiser. Halflings tend to conjure pictures of family, fun and daring quests (not heroic, ranging from something like catching that pesky mouse stealing your cheese, fishing out a basilisk to rising as the underdog shoemaker), sometimes sweet, sometimes bittersweet; other times they sing about how their lives were changed by meeting an unlikely stranger and were thrust into a strange and wild story, on the run from the law (or from in-laws), waking up from a drunken stupour and facing the consequences of last nights actions, humorous and energetic at the best of times, awkward and relatable at the worst of times.

The Hogslaughter

This is not the most popular of festivals in the autumn season. Originally this was a period of farmers giving thanks to the gods of nature & seasons for providing healthy stocks of livestock, particularly hogs and pigs, which become butchered and slaughtered over a month long period before the arrival of winter. However, though many farmers or livestock breeders give thanks to the gods in silent vigils or otherwise - they also call this the 'Month of Blood', where some reckon that the slaughter period of animals during autumn gives the leaves its red colours as the blood is absorbed in the earth and soil. However, it is also a time in which the dark gods come to reach their influence into mortals lives and their powers reach their peak. Primarily a rural tradition - and involved in the quick and merciful killing of animals used for meat, bone, fur, leather or other materials; but it also meant that those who truly believed and wished to show respect would release one of their farm animals into the wilds and be set free. This was in the hopes that nature would reclaim the lost beast and grant a boon over those that sought to survive and subsist through the coming winter. The symbol of this particular festival is that of a dark or pink skinned pig-headed humanoid or werehog, the boogeyman linked to Vernoron the Harvest Lord. It represents the tale of greed and gluttony, where one lord was said to have taken all the pigs and meat from herdsmen and farmers, leaving them without a great amount of food for the winter and gorged on all of them for himself; so Vernoron punished the mortal lord by having the starved villagers transform with a pigs head and an endless hunger, wherever they tread the plantlife would decay and crops would spoil, and the pigs came to the lord, first eating his servants, then his children, then his guards, then his wife, before eventually they came and ate him. For those that hoarded food for themselves and did not share with others, it would attract these Pigmen to the gluttonous and would eat them and those close to them. Though there is another myth less horrifying - where a golden haired pigmen came to visit a farmer who had spared some of his food to a complete stranger who kept asking for more as his family followed behind him - the farmer gave up all his food to this poor hungry family of strange travellers; and the next day his burdened crops were restored into fields of gold, due to the kindness he displayed. The Hogslaughter is a time of sharing and feasting, where members of the community would give parts of their surplus crops or animal meat to a church as a donation or charity, and a time to be wary of becoming too gluttonous in the face of coming winter, otherwise the children warned that the Pigmen was said to come and eat you - though many see this as being an allegory for famine and starvation. The Hogslaughter gives butchers and farmers a chance to give to their communities in the time before winter, and show this by hosting small rural festivals of butchered meat and animal biddings - red coloured tents, shop stalls or market squares would fill with those that would sell and utilise every bit of the animals they have slaughtered for the community to buy and sell. Jesters, bards and fools were invited to play the role of the Pigmen, wearing pig-masks and singing songs, telling jokes and keeping an eye out for those not doing there part and humiliating them in a fashion. But it also demanded that nature and its wildlife be respected, or that the winter predators and hunters of the night will find you to be their next prey. Thus, the deity of beasts, Gazenaroc, was given his kindly respects.
This festival has gained a second meaning in recent times. Though it allows the community to help sustain itself and its majority to be well fed, healthy and stocked in meats, goods and provisions from farms and their animals, helping those that are less well-off - it has a darker side. The Month of Blood invites those with evil intentions to discourage the masses, incite terror, fear and claim their worship to darker and more insidious powers. It is the given time for many murders, illicit night-time affairs and struggles to break in the times of uncertainty in this period as many worry about the creatures of the night. So, peddlers and shops also invest their money towards magical protections and amulets that they believe (or fool others into believing it) would help ward against particularly vicious creatures that Gazenaroc has procured to punish humanity for the mistreatment of his beasts - particularly vampires, lycanthropes, nocturnal beasts like wolves and bears. But it has also turned into a period in which the peasants can arm themselves against the dangers of winter - bows and arrows, swords, daggers, hatchets, axes, spears and javelins; all the things one might need to protect your home and your family, and not become the next unfortunate soul at the mercy of a hungry beast. For these traders and merchants, they have come to be known as "Bloodbankers", a derogatory term that implies them making a profit for the intention of others to kill, as many are untrusted at these points as they would sell these wares to anyone without caring for their intention (good or bad). They have been known to sell their wares with the common phrases - "A dagger in hand is one less in the back", "Trust in my iron" or "Feast your eyes on the beast-killing prize".
Measures are taken during this time to protect and ward against the superstitions of vampires, lycanthropes and predatory beasts of the night - marking their livestock with symbols they believe to be anathema to the creatures such as marks of silver or painted symbols of the gods. Whenever a pig or animal is put to slaughter, a silent word of respect to Gazenaroc is given - whereas others falling on hard times may find themselves calling out to other darker powers. Butcheries are well looked upon and any signs of disturbing activities are one of the first issues taken by those that had made the Vigil promise for the winter.
One truly remarkable spectacle of Hogslaughter is a communal game set between villages, known as Mob-Ball. There was no limit to how many members could play on either side, who would clash in a heaving mass of people that would drag an inflated pigs-bladder by any means possible to reach the opposing teams marker at the end of a town - or as some priests have become outraged, upon the balconies of the temples in a village or town of the opponent team. Any means can be used to move the bladder to the scoring point, so long as it did not lead to manslaughter or murder. Most play this game only using their feet, but some towns allow the use of hands to succeed in this game. Many would gamble on which teams would possibly win, offering food, money or owed favours between commoners - it was often at times a bloody sport, and has been banned multiple times across history. But nothing gets ones blood running warmer than a good old bout of Mob-Ball.

OBSERVANCES

Different groups in society observe the Maidenfall differently, based on their occupations and their own duties.
Artisans: Upon the arrival of Maidensfall, those whom work with their hands to craft and create continue on within the confines of their workshops, stalls and homes. Partaking in the merriment of Everywhim Carnival, Autumn Vigil, Soothing Morrow and Festival of Falling Leaves. Usually this is a time where craftsmen and artisans across different communities practice in the making of gift-giving and preparing their winter crafts - whether that be gaining a store of metal ores for smithing and crafting, collecting furs and leathers from hunters, stocks of dry wood from lumberers or weaving fresh warm clothes for families, friends or customers. The newly crafted wares reflect the change in colour and mood within the communities, from the early jubilations of bright colours and costumes during the festive season to darker and more practical wares fit for survival, sombre moods and remembrance.
Clerics: Maidensfall is a time to look within oneself & to remember the past, facing grievances and to reinvigorate devotion. Some partake within the festivities that arise, whereas others sternly face these and return to their duties to their gods. Good or lawful clerics focus on maintaining order during these times, bringing peace to the people and making preparations to ward off the evil spirits of the lands that may come to haunt the people. Most clerics are only able to offer their blessings, public prayers and warnings to those who indulge in the festivities - some of the more devoted preach out to the public to abandon the urge to indulge, and often become the very object of the publics mockeries (although are very careful not to mock the gods themselves). Those of the dark gods take this time to gather alongside their fellows and step closer to asserting their power among the populace, as movements take rise during the festivities, turning them towards darker means in the face of harsh winter, playing on their fears and uncertainties. The lies and fear-mongering raises the superstitions of the local folk and the ignorant, giving rise to the potential of mobs and street-fighting if not controlled by the law and by the proper messages condoned by the good and lawful clerics.
Druids: Daytime and night-time temperatures change from warm to cold weather, trees change colour and then shed their leaves. Most druids follow the change in pattern and watch for the changes in weather, protecting animals that seek to prepare for their winter hibernation or movements to warmer climes, like large groups of migratory birds. They keep an eye for the migration of predators, though some do not stop them if they reach civilised areas and cause havoc, as this is the natural state of nature - some even guide them towards these areas if they have committed offences against nature or to its animals. They watch the changes in the Moon and the loss of daylight, preparing rituals to honour these entities & the Season Riders. It is the season of harvests - with personifications of pretty, well-fed females adorned with fruits, vegetables, grains that ripen at the time. Druids do not follow this pattern, at least the wild ones that have not adopted a more rural or urban lifestyle. They become quite active during the Hogslaughter, angered by such losses of life kept penned in muck stables to be fattened into table plateurs for the hungry - allowing animals to hunt for their kills, while protecting other animals that become endangered during these desperate times by hunters that search and scour the woods.
Farmers: During this festival, it had just been the harvest festival where thanks and respects are given to Vernoron the Harvest Lord, the farmers responsibilities over the autumn period into the winter are -

• Threshing, ploughing and pruning fruit trees (during the autumnal showers)
• The last ploughing of the year (During the dry season, avoiding the severe frosts)
• Collecting acorns for pigs (during autumnal showers and sunshine)
• Mending and making tools, repairing fences (showers and sunshine, until the cold creeps in)

Most foods are harvested during the autumn, foods associated include pumpkins and apples. But during this period, it is at best to harvest oats and barley in this time of year - preparing beers and bread for workers, gladiators and in stock for commoners (their representative food) in preparation for the winter. The vestiges of lasting and hardy life until the coming winter and cold weather. Most begin to grow rye as a winter crop, to develop and grow within winter (a sign of Eostara's return - also invades richer wheat fields - but can also cause clubfoot from fungal poisoning in beers from rye disease)
Hunters: Hunters prepare this period by marking the patterns and travel of nearby or known predators or dangerous spots frequented by monsters or other beasts - most get by from hunting regular game within the woods, but as the season changes and their prey becomes less abundant, they expand beyond their known reaches and infringe on other peoples territory. Making a living providing for those in the community, but a dangerous affair to indulge in out at night, and the risk of being out in the wilds becomes more dangerous the darker the nights get. Their means of camoflague, trapping and lures change to the seasons demands, and they equip themselves in hardier and sturdier gear. Arrows and bolts become harder to purchase and come by as the stocks begin to dwindle, and others stockpile during the winter. The festival offers the opportunities for hunters and rangers to commute and discuss their latest kills, areas to avoid and present dangers that await them and the communities. Others take advantage and seek to poach whatever and wherever they want, angering some communities in their search for glorious kills at the expense of others and other people's safety.
Nobility/ Royalty: The rich and noble classes begin to seclude themselves in their estates, setting their affairs in order - they partake in the celebrations and encourage the values of raising good spirits, just so the communities can get by, but also to ensure that the commoners become satisfied and relieved. Their businesses and stocks prepare for the eventual turnout of the winter. Noble men go out hunting in the woods across the lands to prepare for elaborate feasts and sports. Some observe more religious practices and private shrines within their homes. Most of the nobility honour the Soothing Morrow, creating gossip and spreading their fortunes to earn their own songs during the Festival of Falling Leaves in positive lights by throwing lavish affairs in honour of the dead, delighting in scandals and keeping order when the commoners mock them and their appearances during the Carnival. Wheat is prepared solely for the elite in anticipation for the winter, indulging in their own ceremonies of alcohol, food and sexual affairs.
Sailors: Business as usual, but their many superstitions prevail during this time about those that had been lost at sea - captains take shore leave for their crews to enjoy the festivals, but ensure that their cargos and destinations are set as the weather takes a harsher turn. Sea trade opens and closes between certain regions as the wet season and monsoons begin in the warmer tropical climates, many dangers arise for travel and transportation. Observances and respects are made to the gods of the sea, hoping and praying for good passage and good tidings away from difficult weather and journeys. The sturdier vessels gain greater prominence as the smaller vessels retire away for the winter, with more brave and bold souls venturing forth - some vessels even partake and observe the Autumn Vigil, watching the coastlines for pirates & smugglers across the sea trade.
Soldiers: Soldiers on leave indulge the best that they can before uptaking the Autumn Vigil, where their duties take them to watching the borders and patrolling the lands, villages and streets of neer-do-wells and beasts. They are put on alert to signs of monsters or illiit activity and are there to keep the public peace. Though many, on duty or not, indulge in the excesses of this celebration - most particularly to show off their skills and talents acquired from recent combat or through their training during the martial contests set up in the different regions. Earning honours and monikers, but also encouraged by their leaders as team-building activities and to distinguish those with skill from those destined only for out of the way guard duties. Warriors of different creeds and codes take this opportunity to test their skills against one another, the lst opportunity they will have before the cold weather occurs.

THE VERNAL RESTORATION

(Vernal Equinox)

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The Vernal Restoration is a grand collection of new year & spring festivals across the world. Occuring on the day in which daytime and night returns to equal length, and daylight gains sway over the dark night, marking the beginning of Spring. It is a festival in which celebrates the return of light & life to the world, and calendars renew, new promises are made for the year by commoners & the oaths of paladins and ferverent worshippers alike are founded and solidified, and the renewal of faith to the prime gods & deities. It beckons for the return of life and the greenery of the world, the quelling of the cold and darkness and the eventual return of the warmth of the world. It is a time in which the power of life and light-giving deities & their worshippers are granted their powers and renewal of faith during the dawn & day.
The Morningstars of Eostara travel across the lands, bringing celebration across the land as they protect and nurture the burgeoning lives of people returning to the light from the cold and harsh winters. Not only do they do this, they reinvigorate people's spirits with a gathering of friendly competitions and games and festivals that gather the people and communities together to share and celebrate with one another. The symbol of these fesivals is the Wolpertinger wearing a crown of spring-flowers.
Filled with everything one would expect: music, dancing, food, gladiatorial games, wrestling, skill challenges, treasure hunts, trade, comraderie. Special significance is given to the Moon and the Sun - with people lighting candles and fires to display Pelor's journey through the winter and returning to the Bright City. Holding bonfires in the night to celebrate the return of Pelor from an arduous journey. It was customary to leave the lights on in the cities, both in the streets and roads to break the dangers & fears of the constant darkness. Traditional clothing usually included fresh and natural colours, including green, yellow, orange, white, accented with fresh flowers and gold-silver filligree. These festivals were mostly celebrated with families or close circles of friends.
Everyone is welcome at the festival, even visitors from different lands. For three days at least, everyone is treated as an equal and being openly violent, rude, or excluding to anyone is very much frowned upon (an unspoken Vernal Accord). It is an opportunity for reunions with old friends and loves, for the giving & crafting of gifts (sometimes for weeks or months in advance). Although it is also the time in which the times for proposals to significant others begins and lasts through to the end of summer, tying the knot, wrapping the cord or gifting of a ring. Then there are the communal feasts, with some people choosing to participate in a number of martial challenges and competitions, or shop at the peddler stalls that coincide with the celebrations. Then, there comes the entertainment of music, song and dancing lasting well through the nights. Most times, the communities sit down together at a feast, families sitting alongside one another or groups of friends enjoying each others company. Toasts are made giving thanks to Pelor and rejoicing at the return of Eostara and the spring, until once again music is played, people dance, mingle and converse into the late hours.

CELEBRATIONS

The festivals that are taken in during the Vernal Restoration are:

• The Sworn Bloom
• The Festival of Sacred Vows
• Maidens Day
• Brightstar

The Sworn Bloom

Occuring at the bloom of nature and when the frost and snow has finally melted, signalling the return of Eostara to her rightful form - therefore it does not have a uniform day, and is celebrated differently and more locally. In preparation for the vernal equinox, commoners from rural and urban regions prepare and form figures of Eostara out of wood, woven branches, hay and flowers. This is a united effort between commoners and artisans as they restore communal forms and representations of Eostara and celebrate her return by burning effigies of rotten hay and old timber carvings of Persephone in night-time bonfires - the faster and brighter that the effigy burns, the brighter and warmer the summer is said to be. Many partake by wearing flower garlands and daisy-chain crowns, the spread and trade of crop seeds, plants, flowers and herbs - not to mention the trade of domestic animals and pets over different areas. During this time, as with the arrival of spring and the coming of the new year, many people devote the first day of the Vernal Restoration by erecting these effigies of Eostara and dozens of folks, families and friends decorate the effigies with freshly picked flowers, each whispering a promise they wish to keep within the flowers and putting it in the gaps between her form until the Spring Maiden appears to be wearing a dress of brightly coloured flowers. Different regions favour different flowers of choice, and on what promises they wish to keep - but most choose buttercups because if you speak the promise to their petals and they shine on your face, people believe that it will come true (others say that this only shows you like butter, but those are just 'Butternarks'). Others that work during the first day or are on the road travelling travelling are known to celebrate the festival another way: by eating fruits or vegetables, spitting out the seeds and savour them in a pocket pouch until they travel to a stop or return to their homes. They grab the seeds and spread them across the road, path or streets in places of dirt and mud and make their new-years promise to themselves - said to be 'sowing the seeds of their future'.
However, the most distinguished practice is the celebration and return of colours - much like the return of blooming flowers, people begin to explode and rejuvinate their homes, lives and art with multiple colours - all folk partake in a new set of clothes, dress and fashion. Dyes, paints and oils have been prepared in this time, gathered over the winter frost and now relinquished for the people's desire. Those that partake in the procession through the streets throw out flower petals, or in more elaborate settings, roll out long carpets made of flowers that can only be used once (trampled by the following bystanders), and carry wooden platforms holding the newly made effigies of Eostara, with Morningstar clerics holding bowls of coloured dust and dye, and buckets of water. This is the Coloured Bloom Dance, an Eostaran celebration that allow friends and bystanders to splash each other with water and throw herbal colours at one another's face and body, as well as paints and dyes at one another. These dances and colour-fights proceed across the whole day, and continue in the night by the lighting of a bonfire, marking the triumph of good over evil.
As for others, during the Sworn Bloom festival on the second day of the Vernal Restoration, clerics, paladins or knights swear new oaths of fealty and devotion to their respective gods within the holy pantheon, or commoners dedicate themselves and renew their faith to the other gods and goddesses. Parades and public parties follow, as a festival appears out in the meadow green, or in a decorated open urban space - with stalls of goods, games, music and competitions for the public to see and enjoy, with warriors proving their strength and skill in displays of martial combat or activities. It gives all those the chance to display their talents after the harsh winter. However, these affairs usually do not descend into unwanton violence, and are usually reserved for honorable public duels and fanciful shows of skill, rather than hardened combat. On the other hand, any violence displayed in these festivals mark the beginnings of a bad year - spilling blood on the day of the Spring Maidens resurrection invites a year of blood and warfare.
Be that as it may, for frustrations to be cornered, the third day is devoted to eggs - a symbol of new life springing forth. Many stalls and shops prepare a good stock of eggs, a lot being preserved as fermented eggs (the most especially valued are the Pine Flower Eggs, those that come out with patterns likened to pine branches after fermentation), serving scrambled eggs in great amounts so all can enjoy it - given their own local flavours, recipes and spices to give them flair and uniqueness. For those that enjoy ridding themselves of frustrations, there are egg-throwing contests at fools or friends - using aged or rotten eggs. Pillories are left out and criminals are usually put up in these stocks, and throughout the festival they are replaced and used - the Morningstars of Eostara or the Halfling priests of Maevericki carry egg baskets for those to target these criminals and humiliate them. Hoping it would deter them from further actions. In some eccentric cases, Cockatrice eggs were used to make scrambled eggs or even fermented in alkaline clays and be consumed - having a unique texture & taste to them, seasoned with salt. For Tortles, this period is an important time, where eggs that are laid under the sand of the shores or beaches - they pray that the summer is warm in order to give birth to females, since the manner in which their hatchlings gender is determind is based on the warmth of the area as it shall continue their race, should the summers be too cold, then all that are born are competitive males - on a very warm season, females are nearly guaranteed.
On the fourth day, the Autumn Vigil is finally put to a close and their duty is ceremoniously & formally ended. Many guards and soldiers are able to celebrate, retire from combat and go off-duty, transfer to new areas to pursue personal goals or aptitudes amongst the community. Those who had endured the frost & died were given commemorations during the festival, with their names and deeds carved onto wooden shields that are laid to rest within their graves as well as given to their families, whilst some carve their names into the brickwork of the places they held their vigil within. The Torchbearer of each Autumn Vigil gathers alongside their guards and groups, each one of the Autumn Vigil arrive carrying a handful of fresh-tullips, met with a Radiant priest of Pelor. The priest lights a torch for each and every one of them, while they recite the Autumn Vigil's word to the wise - "The years in wane, there is nothing adorning. The night has no eve, and the day has no morning. Cold winter gives warning." - warmer sayings to give often go as this: "I hope you can be an autumn leaf, who looked at the sky and lived. And when it was time for you to leave, gracefully it knew that life was a gift." - finally, ending with a prayer to Eostara: "Though autumns end draws near, she graced her land beyond all fear." They say their farewells, and lay the tullips to their fellows grave atop the carved sheild, and say their sorries to their loved ones. If none are present, they whisper their fond memories of the joy their fallen comrade brought them in the winter, and say goodbye. Despite those that carve the names of their fallen comrade into buildings or walls being an act of vandalism and public graffiti, most soldiers nod their heads to this small memorial and let the names be - not seeking to disgrace a fallen comrade; and any that do deface these markings are sure to find themselves the victim of a surprise beating or trumped up charge, and forced to remember the name of the one they dishonoured. And are left with a grim warning: "Some people create their own storms and get mad when it rains." The event to celebrate their survival, and the communities survival is shared amongst everyone, but the Autumn Vigil are honoured guests and given good treatment - a special brew is made by the community by the wheat and crops sown in the autumn and winter, the 'Vigils Springbrew', whereas others may import good brews especially to the Vigils taste.

The Festival of Sacred Vows

Taking place on the second day of the Vernal Restoration festivals, in tandem with the Sworn Bloom festival; this is considered the official period in which knights, warriors and paladins of deities to renew their vows and observe their oaths to whichever cause they follow. These devoted followers hope that they achieve their short-term or long-term promises come the next year, fitting them to better expectations or going further beyond in ambition or humble duty to their causes. Whilst not all are in reverence to Eostara specifically, her celebrated return sees that the rest of the pantheon thrives within or without the worship of the divine by their devoted followers. Her return has been utilised as a gateway for the renewal of faith for other gods - particularly the good, nature-based or civilised deities. On this day, those whom are deemed worthy by the gods are said to recieve a vision or are visited by an angel or divine aid - most are usually young who have may have a strict sense of right and wrong, others compelled by a terrible disaster or event that might have plagued them during the winter or in some point in their life. They name this phenomenon, 'The Call of Providence', where the gods send a message to drive those to protect and defend the creatures and humanoids of Aetheus. Kings, queens and leaders also take this celebration to recieve new oaths of fealty by new soldiers, warriors and knights across their kingdoms - devoting themselves to a crown, a community or a cause. Many take this oath by beginning their trials and vigilant observances in a chapter house or temple, paladins in particular are recruited based on those that showed promise during the harsh winter & chapter masters seek to recruit new followers they believe worthy to their cause, or if the gods or goddesses give a sign that show their great potential. Those invited are expected to follow the express summons of these orders, especially of a ruler, less so a chaptermaster - but a chaptermasters second would come to the places of interest and offer the chance of a lifetime to rural villages or urban cities to join them and their mission. The young in particular flock to the Sworn Bloom festivals that seek to fulfill their accorded duties to providence - representatives of the paladin orders (more so the orders of kingdoms and the ruler) would venture and observe those with heart, measure them for the life of squires or pages & take them in. Those deemed worthy and prove themselves through a competition between youths - the Oathspring Trials - in mock duels, endurance training, horse-riding, and other overwhelming challenges for young aspirants. It is not expected that they are skilled, nor successful, they look at the character of the children in how they seek to accomplish their goals, and the drive they have to continue in spite of hardship - selfish actions show them to be compromised, but actions that show kindness, compassion and their ability to work together, be fair and good sports, are factors they take to heart. If they allowed just anyone to take the competition and judged them on their level of skill, they would be recruiting soldiers - that's why the children are measured on their humanity. Skill can be forged in their training and their masters, they can become stronger and wiser through experience - character and heart cannot be forged, it is an innate trait from birth. There are those who make sacred oaths before the gods and goddesses, and invite the influence of the potentially dark goddess Sincainea, who honours and watches over every oath and promise made and sees them completed to the mark and letter - taken as literal oaths, strictly observed and not should never be made lightly nor in jest. Every oath is sacred, and never to be treated as a trifle affair. Those that partake in these oaths can be seen to adorn a wreath of multi-coloured cloths, belts or tokens to denote the mother of chromatic dragons. Those who fail to achieve these goals are often the subject of many bardic tragedies and plays, and face the wrath of the devilish lady of oaths.
This period follows for older adults as a public festival of sanctioned duelling, non-lethal combat and showmanship of talents & martial skill; handled by entrepeneurial merchants or rich lords supporting local communities - but others may partake in more underhanded and fiercesome combat in consented fistfights, wrestling or shows of strength (log-throwing, sprints, boulder-lifting, etc). This is the main 'Festival of Sacred Vows' - it is a celebration marked by those trying to overcome great odds and challenges, much like how Pelor and Eostara in their mythic story, and the commoners after the harsh winter. Many wish to prove themselves by vowing to set new records at local fairs in sporting athletic events - archery tournaments, jousting, sprints, tree-climbing, tug-of-war, gymnastics, boulder rolling, bowls, horseshoe tossing, hammer-throwing, or the much beloved game of Phandrel. A deliver-package game with competitive teams which allows passing a ball with 'hurl-sticks', running from one end of a village, town or city to the other (similar to lacrosse) - penalties given to accidents, collisions or physical contact involving non-players. The other more social aspect of this celebration is the upholding of other promises and vows - such as proposals of marriage, caretaking of children or adoption, the upholding of one's honour. For dwarves this event is pivotal for their society, upholding ancient grudges of their ancestors and the promises they had made under their oath - the dwarves always keep their promises.

Maidens Day

Occuring on the first lunar crescent after the vernal equinox, the day is solely devoted to women, grandmothers, mothers, sisters, aunties, daughters or widows - as Eostara is celebrated in her return, women across the world are celebrated in this time and during the spring. Many take it as a day of rest, going out shopping to the festive markets, partaking in a feast with family, friends or partners. Their duties, though laborous, are often lessened on this day and are allowed themselves a personal celebration. In this time, Eostara is mainly dedicated to this event - but other feminine deities have recently been allowed to be celebrated during this time: Shelúne the Moonweaver (even her counterpart, Nocturnal the Shadow Mistress), Pygmea the Wonderbringer, Hyana the Surrogate Huntress, Sincainea the Vice Maiden, Erathis the Law-Bearer, Melora the Wildmother, Pansophia the Knowing Mistress, Promethea the Strife Mother, the Raven Queen, Ericerbic the Croaking Mother, Freya the Summer Maiden and Avandra the Change-Bringer.

Brightdawn

Whilst the majority of spring festivals revere the spring goddess Eostara, a special celebration is made towards Pelor known as Brightdawn. Beloved by commoners and seeing this period as the time in which the winter has been dispelled and the darkness is finally being overcome by the light of the sun. Pelor's clergy, the Radiant, are known to heal the sick, bless crops and help the needy - prayers are recited from his holy book, the Light of Pelor & tales are recited by bards from the epic sage of the 'Gift of Eternal Light', which recalls the tale of an ancient kingdom threatened by dark forces and evil, inspired by the morning light of the rising sun which helped to dispel the demons and undead that threatened them. Each of the suns rays said to be representing the spirit of the righteous. Bards and musicians compare these rays to those noteworthy individuals within the Autumn Vigil, who have shown great promise and dedication to their duties and communities - rising as heroic figures and new candidates to join the ranks of the Dawn Crusaders. The dawn is celebrated by the gathering of the community to share the burden of harvesting the winter crop planted during the autumn, and sharing this grain and goods in all forms and manners, usually the sharing of oats, barley for commoners and wheat for the rich and noble houses. From then on celebrations continue to mark the return of the sun in all new and bright colours, depicting the colours of the rainbow - the festival is considered blessed by Eostara & Pelor should a rainbow be visible to onlookers, believing that he has made an appearance to the celebration. A special brew is dedicated to the god, known as Dawn Ale, more like a warm porridge broth which the masses indulge in, it's tastes set to warm and invigorate those that consume it. Processions of Pelor's banners march through the streets and roads, followed by the herding of new and healthy bulls that continue into the night - many gather holding their own torches and candles and gather around his shrine, lighting a great bonfire where they throw their candles and torches into - granting their prayers and their faith towards him, hoping for good harvest seasons and bountiful crops.
Days and nights become twleve hours long, daytime increasing and nightime decreasing. Ideas of rebirth, rejuvenation, renewal, resurrection and regrowth. Subtropical & tropical seasons have better climates (wet, monssonal, cyclonic). Biological indication of - blossoming plants, activities of animals (come out of dormancy, hibernation, beginning resting and reproduction, migrating poleward in response to warmer temperatures), special smell of soil reaching temperature for micro-flora to flourish. Snow-melt, then to snowless areas, to blooming of plants. Longer cycles of rainfall. Flooding most common in near mountainous areas - tornadoes - thunderstorms. Wheat used to be made into flour, germinated and dried creating malt...

CELEBRATIONS

Artisans: The Vernal Restoration is a time to re-affirm their crafts and fulfill new styles and practices to achieve more effective products more efficiently. They begin to branch out and spread, now that the winter frosts have thawed and travel to new areas and make new beginnings. Hand-crafted goods are reintroduced and folks from all around wish to restock and repair broken, misplaced or inadequate goods and wares, or simply wish to make or buy something brand new. Artists and musicians are newly inspired by the coming spring and the return to life and energy within their lands - shedding the darkened colours and moods from the winter, granted hope and the promise of a new dawn. With light restoring the world from darkness, these are reflected in the new brands people buy - flower patterns, animals, rivers, forests, insects, clouds, sunlight and the moon reappear in embroidered clothes, sculptures, artwork, trinkets in fresh and new colours.
Clerics:
Druids:
Farmers: During this festival, it has just been the main ploughing season, the farmers responsibilities during this time are -

• Carting manure and marl (during the winter showers)
• Ploughing and spreading manure (during the dry, and safe climate)
• Spring sowing of seeds and harrowing (during the shower periods and sunshine)
• Digging ditches, first ploughing of the fallow fields (during the spring showers and sunshine)

Hunters:
Nobility/ Royalty:
Sailors:
Soldiers: