THE ETERNAL FLAME: SUMMER SOLSTICE RP EVENT
This is a headcanon and an event developed by @plasmapriestess, @verodrath, and myself! If you intend to participate or use it in any capacity, you must either reblog the post or source credit in some other form on your blog with a link back to this post. In the same way you wouldn’t run off with someone else’s fan work without permission, please use the same courtesy here. Thanks! That boring stuff aside, read on.
The Eternal Flame, or Summer Solstice, is a celebration on the longest day of the Jennerit year, in which the sun’s position would align in such a way that regions outside of the poles on Jennar would receive many hours of daylight, far more than any other time in the year, and the night would be very short by comparison.
The Jennerit have used this day to honor the connection to the sun and all the stars and their Sustaining Mother, who taught them the means of harnessing planetary energy for their Immortality. They are extending it, as well, to include the honoring of their battle for Solus.
Common festivities include:
An extravagant breakfast composed of summer-seasonal fare. Fresh fruit, fresh spices and herbs. Very light on the meat intake. Tables in homes are set with candles down the center, which are shaped in sun-like patterns, and smell of citrus when burned.
At mid day, the lighting of the bonfire begins. It is customary for flowers of red and golden petals to be gathered, where a portion will be tossed into the flames of the bonfire while another will be kept and used to weave wreaths. The wreaths do not have to be worn but can be; they are also used as decorations around Jennerit homes. Weaving in different leaves with the blooms can alter the meaning of the wreath. The bonfire flames are stoked throughout the remainder of the day and well into the night. There are usually guards posted to keep it clear of mischievous saboteurs.
In the afternoon, a feast is held within the capital square. All foods freshly harvested and prepared, often seasoned with citrus and herbacious flavors. It is considered an honor among Jennerit chefs and merchants to be showcased here, and their wares often will be over the course of several meals. Unlike other cultures, dessert is the main event, where citrus-infused baked goods and glazed fruits will often feature.
As dusk approaches – which can take awhile on the longest day – the Empress hosts her own celebration in the imperial ballroom. A live band, composed of both contemporary instruments and an orchestra, will accompany the fesitivites. Traditional dances are performed first, and after the floor will be open to all attendees. Many flames line sun-shaped braziers, holo-sconces formed in the same shape and alternating between reds and golds. Performers showcase their talents, wowing the crowds with flame-eating and fire juggling, walking hot coals and holding flames on parts of the body without properly catching fire.
Clothing for the events can vary, but the materials are usually light, gauzy, but layered, sporting shades of red, gold, and black. It is not uncommon for seasonal flowers to be woven into accessories, such as the hair, or clipped to a lapel or a wrist. Rubies and garnets are popular accessories.
In the years following the Empress’ absence, the festivities have been slightly more dour than before. Some speculate it is by mandate of Rendain himself. Some speculate it is an entire people in mourning. No one is certain which it is. This year, they will keep in mind why they battle for Solus, too – and also let loose.
WHEN: June 20, aka the real time Summer Solstice.
WHERE: Your choice of aboard the Nova (mid-game setting) or on Tempest (post-game / post-Heliophage). Threads will adapt to participants. Might be the most feasible with the latter.
WHO: Like it or not, Deande (whisperingblade) has adopted you. You, yes you, are invited via the Spymistress herself.
WHAT: Do reblog this post if interested. Also consider tagging open and participating posts with rp event: eternal flame.
