abraxasooc | EVENT #16: WINTERTIDE

Event #16 - OOC Plotting

wintertide event log | island investigation log

While the previous year saw the Summoned brought to Nocwich for a formal event, this year, there will be no singular event to attend. Instead, the winter holidays will be a local affair that takes place beginning from December 14 to the end of the month in each territory. The main celebrations will occur around DECEMBER 20-21, but festivities will be held in the week before and after.

Additionally, on DECEMBER 29, characters who wish to visit the island where the Lost were held captive during last year's Invocation event may do so. This will be posted separately from the main festivities for players to participate in.

Activities will include local parties, decorations, street celebrations, and more. You can also host or attend player-created opportunities. For more details, see the Festivities section.

Nocwich will open during set dates to allow visitors (and shoppers!) to Oleuni Square. Characters can visit at any point and meet other Summoned across country borders.

Festivities

The main winter occasion in each nation (The Dimming, Festival of Enlightenment, and Winter Solstice) coincides with the Dimming of the Singularity, a brief period where its observable activity diminishes. Beginning on the 14th, the background level of magic across Abraxas dips significantly as the Singularity begins to dim, reaching its nadir on the 21st before stirring back to full strength by the dawn of the 28th.

Only the native Abraxans are affected by this phenomenon. The Dimming has no impact on the Summoned's magic.

Primary Features

The IC Event Log will include the following features for you to engage in regardless of faction. While the flavor of how and where it happens will be written to fit the specific celebration, the overall effect will be the same.

◎ INSPIRATION. One of the festival prompts will include something that allows a character to gain the courage or inspiration they need to say or do something important. You (or the character) can decide whether it involves a friend or a stranger, but the key factor is that it is their choice. Characters will not feel forced to act against their will. The act should be something they've wanted to do but either didn't have the chance or they've been hesitant. Examples are: sharing a personal artwork, asking someone on a date, seeking reassurance over feelings of guilt, or finally making an apology they've been putting off.

◎ MEET & GREET. One of the festival prompts will include the chance to ask an NPC a short question or to pass a message onto them. Characters might get a quick answer or introduction before the NPC moves on. Think of it as similar to a meeting a politician at a large function where they've made an appearance to engage with the community. There will be no Influence requirement, so it's a good way for new arrivals to get noticed even if it's just as a face or a name. Players can simply comment to the thread with their question or message.

◎ INFLUENCE IMPACT. Gaining influence might open doors, but it can be a nuisance during the excitement of the holiday season. Notably, characters at Rank 4 or above have a high probability of being approached or noticed by locals. Natives might insist they attend parties, request blessings for the new year, discuss them as a subject of gossip, and more. The greater a Summoned's influence, the more interference they'll come across. Characters who are Rank 3 or below have the opportunity to avoid notice, though this isn't a guarantee - it just means players of those characters can decide whether their character will attract a bit of attention or if they can go about their day unbothered.

The Celebrations

Below is a summary of the type of activities characters might find in their nation's major areas, including a key event in each city or settlement. While the IC Event Log will give more details and specific prompts, you can use the information below to begin planning. The dates for key events are staggered so that characters have the opportunity to attend all of them if they want.

In addition to the prompts provided, players can organize and host small open events such as charity drives, potlucks, door-to-door caroling, puppet shows, or anything you like.

To seek player involvement in your event, fill out the form and reply here.

◎ For open mingle logs that have already been posted earlier this month and which contain a similar festive theme, players are welcome to incorporate elements from the event into those threads.

◎ If you have any questions about the resources required or the feasibility of the event you have in mind, please check in with us! Being involved with a player-organized event that impacts the locals can help boost your character's influence rank.

Thorne: The Dimming

In Thorne, the mood is generally somber and reflective in the days leading to the Dimming itself, with the promise of light and renewal waiting on the other side. Prompts for Thorne on the IC Event Log will include some ways to earn a little money for characters who need something extra to buy gifts for friends.

Castle Thorne ◎

With the ground covered in a thick layer of snow, horse-drawn sleigh rides are a popular activity among the nobles. Mulled wine is served as the horses lead riders around the beautiful city. The Summoned can ride for free as important guests of the Castle. Workers have also transformed one of the castle's many gardens into an enchanted forest for this year's main event: the Awakening of Magicks on December 21. As the sun sets, the Summoned will be taught a firelight spell and asked to symbolically release the light towards a unique tree, illuminating it with a magic only they can access.

Borrel ◎

Throughout Borrel, a single long cord is wound around poles and homes. Colorful ribbons are then tied along the cord's length, each one containing a wish. Anyone who vows to make that wish come true can take the ribbon as a promise. Characters can hang a wish of their own or take one to fulfill - whether from a resident or a fellow Summoned. Additionally, the Light of Many Moons takes place on December 18-20, where moon jellies rise near the surface and cause the ocean to glow softly at night. Characters can bundle up to witness the event, which includes a meal served afterwards in one of Borrel's many spacious (and warm) inns. They might also glimpse a special sea jelly that gives them some INSPIRATION.

Nott ◎

A frozen pond has been smoothed over for skating throughout the month. Locals are available to teach if characters want to learn, and merchants nearby sell fish pies and hot cider. At other ponds, ice fishing is an equally delightful activity. This year, Nott has volunteered to host the Feast of the New Dawn, taking place on December 27, the eve of the Singularity regaining its full strength. To thank the Summoned for their efforts over the previous difficult winters, the residents of Nott have come together with humble offerings of food, gifts, and entertainment. Lyle Vela will be attending for a MEET & GREET.

The Free Cities: Festival of Enlightenment

The Free Cities thrives in this time of literal and metaphorical darkness. Extravagant parties, grand inventions, and appearances from local celebrities bring a great buzz everywhere. Outfits often emphasize the concept of illumination, using reflective fabrics and gems.

Cadens ◎

The Circus of The Sciences is the main event in Cadens on December 17-19. Aleksander G. Klingel is back as judge, and he's brought with him once more his infamous experiments involving some tingling rods. There are also carriage rides involving light-up carriages, decorated and sponsored by various establishments and benefactors including the Academies, Fort Wilbridge, and the Free City Theater Company. This year, the Summoned are offered their own carriage to join the circuit! Characters can work together to make it theirs for the event. One of the inventors will also present a soothing tool that helps characters reflect on themselves and discover some INSPIRATION.

Aquila ◎

The most exclusive parties are in Aquila, the fashion capital. Usually accessible only to the upper class, the Summoned have an open invitation. Hosts are eager to entice characters to their party, considering it a great distinction to have one of the Summoned attend their event. Parties are held throughout the entire two-week celebration, so characters will have their pick of when and where, but the most famous is the Gala of Illumination on December 20. Any Summoned attending the Gala will receive offers from dressmakers, jewelers, and stylists who want to show off their work by having a Summoned wear it to one of the year's most public events. Fallon Marsh will be attending for a MEET & GREET.

Libertas ◎

In Libertas, gatherings often spill out into the streets. Characters visiting Libertas throughout the two weeks will be swept up into the joyous occasion. Performances take place on outdoor stages so any Summoned with artistic inclinations can put on a performance to celebrate Enlightenment. The most popular event is the Liberty Charity Auction on December 22 where well-known artists donate their work to raise money. This year, proceeds will go to the Free Cities' orphanages. Characters can volunteer to be auctioned off for anything of their choosing, such as an hour of conversation, dancing lessons, poetry readings, or whatever players decide. Other characters can bid on their friends for CR purposes or players have an NPC "win" the bid.

Solvunn: Winter Solstice

The mood is light and cheerful in Solvunn. The Winter Solstice is a time of celebrating one's relationship with a higher power during the darkest nights of the year. Locals often mingle and partake in spiced cider and warm mead. Offerings and altars to the Gods are common. The Summoned will also receive bounties from the natives, including money, which they can use to purchase gifts for their friends.

Primary Settlement ◎

Potlucks are common in the days leading up to the Solstice. Locals will spontaneously usher characters in for a meal or to come out of the cold for some mead. Summoned who have a home of their own can open their doors, too. To celebrate coming together in darkness, the Blessing of Light occurs on December 20. Each household puts out a decorated candle in offering to The Light. This year, the Summoned are to be the ones to grant their blessing to homes by lighting the candles. Locals are hoping to receive a Summoned's light. Turning down this crucial role will be met with disappointment and anxiousness, and leave the natives concerned that they have offended the Gods' chosen ones.

Secondary Settlement ◎

At the start of the festivities, a black goat dressed in patchwork tapestries is released. The goal is to lay a kiss upon the Goat of All Tidings before the sun sets on the final day of the year for good luck. The goat runs freely about the Secondary Settlement. The Snowdrop Exchange is also a popular event taking place on December 18-22. Unmarried locals commonly court each other, though powerful friendships or familial bonds play an equally important role. The purpose is to affirm your two most important relationships: your snowdrop partner and the Gods. Characters will be nudged to find someone to pledge their dedication to...and may feel a touch of Xeimer's presence that gives them INSPIRATION.

Tertiary Settlement ◎

This year's main event will take place in the Tertiary Settlement on December 21, thanks to Isar Hart's initiative: Xeimer's Plunge, in which brave souls strip down to their smalls (or strip entirely) and dive into the frozen Hydra Gulf. The act is meant to bring good tidings in the coming spring. Participants receive free mead for the night. The Summoned will also be asked to place offerings of pickled herring onto Xeimer's altar. Rowan March will be there alongside the festivities for a MEET & GREET.

Nocwich: Oleuni Square

To take advantage of the holiday season and people's heavy coin purses, Nocwhich is allowing visitors to Oleuni Square only between December 14-20 and December 23-28, with the portals closed on the 21st and 22nd due to the Singularity's waning magic. Although there are no grand parties this year to attend, characters have plenty of small activities to indulge in while meeting with their friends across borders.

The Market

Shopkeepers and merchants in Nocwich are selling all types of wares for the holidays. If you need a gift, you might find something unique in one of the stalls from glowing flower bouquets, handcrafted jewelry, and knitted socks from wool spun from a werewolf's fur. Spa packages are popular while all sorts of performances are held on the main stage for characters to attend with a friend or two.

The Arcanis

Luna has docked The Arcanis at the port in Oleuni Square. All amenities are available on it as the previous winter, including Admiral Chuck, the ancient turtle who may or may not be secretly very fast. Characters can also find the music and gambling lounge, a tavern and eatery, and an art expression hall. Additionally, the annual migration of the wondrous creatures of the deep sea, including a golden serpent, can once again be viewed from the Arcanis' deck. Mulled cider and thick blankets are available!

The Island

By Conclave request, nation leaders have coordinated with each other and Nocwich to allow the Summoned to return to the island that was the site of some horrific events nearly a a year ago. The visit to the island will be posted as a separate IC Investigation Log. In-game, characters will travel there on DECEMBER 29, so they'll have plenty of time to enjoy the holidays before making the trip. A portal will be provided, and characters will return within 48 hours.

Purifying the Island

None of the three nations trust each other to get the job done, so purifying the island will require three individual steps: a ritual from Solvunn, a spell from Thorne, and a special device from the Free Cities. Once characters are satisfied with the answers they've sought, they'll be tasked with ensuring the dangerous magicks and biohazards are properly dispelled or contained. They can choose to aid only with their faction's method or all three.

After the island is purified, characters will be presented with the choice to raze it or restore it. The choice is available for all characters who participated in Event #12, whether or not they've revisited the island. Neither choice will lead to any catastrophic outcome, but it will alter what happens on the island in the future.

This decision does not need to be made until the end of the event to give players time to choose. A vote will be posted on the IC Island Investigation Log. Results will be in the Wrap-Up.

Dangers and Exploration

There aren't many threats left on the island, but wild animals and previously trapped monsters must be dealt with. Characters should keep their eyes peeled. Personal weapons are permissible.

The island will have three main sections to explore: the surface, the portion of the pit not collapsed, and the flooded underwater area. Characters will have enchantments for diving for the underwater portions.

There will be 3 investigation points around the island, based on what each Conclave stated their goals are. Characters can interact with these points, similar to the Invocation event.

Recovering the Bodies

Many of the victims continue to be on record as "missing." To help their loved ones find closure, officials are requesting the Summoned help recover as many of the bodies as possible. This includes bones, teeth, jewelry, or personal possessions. Nocwich will be stepping in as neutral territory to facilitate the identification process and ensure any remains or items are returned to their families.

January's quests will involve delivering the news to various families, so if you have any questions regarding the aftermath of recovering the bodies, please hold until then!

Event Schedule

Since the format of this event is fairly loose, the IC Event Log will go up a few days after the official "start" of the event. However, the festivities will run throughout the last half of December, and characters won't need to be in any particular place. Everyone is free to participate as much or as little as they want!

The IN-GAME EVENT will ICly take place December 14 - December 29
The EVENT POST will go up December 17 for players to participate in.
The WRAP-UP POST will go up December 31 for players to view.

Plotting Form

You can use the plotting form below to make plans.

Questions and Answers

If after reading these you're still unsure about anything, or your question wasn't covered, please feel free to hit up our Questions thread below!

Are portals still open between cities within each nation during the Dimming?: Yes, the permanent portals will remain open. Although the Singularity's magic weakens, it's not gone altogether. What this means, however, is that more effort or manpower is required to use magic, so only the essentials will be maintained.
What if my character would like to request a longer meeting with an NPC for another time?: You can make a Plot Engagement submission if you want your character to have a private meeting with an NPC.
Will my character need Influence to host an open event?: They won't, but having a certain rank might help them get resources they wouldn't receive otherwise. They can also just ask another character with a higher rank to open those doors for them! Collaboration is encouraged.
Can I put on an event without posting to the Open Player Events comment?: Certainly. There's no need to submit your event. The comment is there to help players connect with each other and plot, but you're not required to use it.
Will events closed to the Summoned gain any attention for Influence?: No, as with most Influence items, a character's actions should be something that'll be noticed by the local population in their faction. Note that this doesn't mean the activity isn't important! It just won't get the character public attention.
Will characters feel anything strange or unsettling about the inspiration aspect?: No, the idea behind the inspiration effect is that the interaction will help nudge their thoughts and give them the strength or courage they need to move forward if they want. The choice to act on that desire will be entirely theirs.
So characters of all rank have the option to attract attention?: Yes, all characters may receive some attention for being the Summoned. Influence rank in this case will measure how likely it is that your character can avoid attention, as well as what that attention will look like. The lower your character's rank, the better their chances of going unnoticed.
Is the attention positive or negative?: This depends on the character! As players, you can choose what feels reasonable. For example, if a Summoned gained their influence with a mix of positive and negative actions, they might attract some less savory rumors. However, if they've been an outgoing and friendly member of the community, the attention will be more positive. Location also plays a role. Solvunn will not speak ill of their Summoned whereas reception in Thorne or the Free Cities can be more varied.
How much attention are they getting? What might it look like?: Details will be available on the IC Event Log, but you can also determine additional flavor based on your character. For instance, if they've made a name for themselves as a scientist, they might get asked to help with a new invention for the festival. Generally speaking, the atmosphere will be one of curiosity and intrigue.
Do characters need to have participated in Event #12 to visit the island?: Not at all! Anyone can go, but they should have a reason to tell officials when making the request. It can be as simple as "I want to help my friends."

EVENT #16: WINTERTIDE - OOC POST

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