Festival of Tonoos

Just before the season of Rimuqa (Spring) started in the 3rd month of 3365 BTG, [history:45c519ee-4769-4d42-84f4-8f02b544e38f]The 30-Year Winter[/history] came to an end. As legend has it, an Urnati named Tonoos was standing guard at the entrance to one of the thousands of caves being used for shelter. His job was to ensure that the entrance remained secure against the elements. On the 1st day of the third month, he was checking the entrance when he notice something unusual coming from the other side: light. He slowly opened the entrance and was greeted by something that he, a 24-year-old man, had never seen: The light of the dual suns. Over the next few days, the celebrations were unparalleled. Survivors realized that for the first time in 30 years, there was hope. The celebration lasted three days, and came as the spring began renewing the planet. Since then the celebration has been one of love, friendship, and family every year. Different regions would celebrate at approximately the same time, but during The Gathering, it was agreed by the Nine Nations that it would be held ahead of the beginning of Rimuqa Ispring) to usher in the new season. As a result, the festival is now held on the 14th, 15th and 16th day of the second month every year.

Traditionally, the festival starts on the 14th day after nightfall. This is to symbolize the [history:45c519ee-4769-4d42-84f4-8f02b544e38f]The 30-Year Winter[/history]. Festival goers sit in quiet reflection, giving thanks to those hardy sould who survived those dark years so that the rest of the planet could come back to life. There is no music or dancing. Those with a religious bent may say prayers quietly, or meditate. At each celebration site, one individual is chosen to represent Tonoos, the guard who first saw the sunlight stream through the entrance to the cave. This individual makes his way with a ceremonial torch to a large bonfire. He looks out across the gathered masses as if looking for something, then touches the torch to a massive bonfire. The bonfire represents the light and warmth of the suns that came through the cave entrance that day. A cheer goes up and the assembled festival-goers congratulate the Tonoos stand-in. Then the revelry begins. Through the night and the next two days, there is music, dancing, drinking and wine. The first night is for remembrance and appreciation of family. The second night is for celebration of friendship of all kinds. Those who have been adversaries are encouraged to drop their conflicts in the spirit of friendship. The final night is all about love. Love of all. And yes, it is the night the most intoxicating drinks are consumed. It is no secret that this usually leads to a large nunber of children born just before Rapo Zebalon (Winter).

The festival of Tonoos is celebrated throughout Arnathia on the 14th, 15th and 16th day of the second month of each year.