This world has been created from the restringing together of the planes in order to keep them from collapsing into each other. All of the planes circle like planets within the ethereal. They circle so closely together but appear as though they are stars in a galaxy from the vantage point of this world. Originally, the planes would have circled around this world in a magical starry appearance like the moon circles the earth. However, when the Great Collapse happened, a magical tether was formed, linking all of the planes to this world to keep them from destroying all of existence. This caused the world to fall into a cycle of ever looping echoes of time. The world phases through each plane, as if it becomes part of each plane on a monthly basis as it slowly loops through to the next plane. Every month is based on what plane is connected with the world at the time. This world being the tether for the planes. In each respective month of the year (being the complete retethering rotation of the world through the planes) the planes leak pieces of themselves into the world, causing natural global occurrences. The months are listed as follows: Shadow (Noctumbra), Frost (Winterveil), Gale (Etherealis), Loch (Delugera), Fey (Prismara), Anima (Lunaris), Pyra (Incendium), Sol (Eversun), Celeste (Astralis), Terra (Harvestglow). Ten months in all, each lasting 36 days.
The transference between the other realms and the material plane is called the eclipse, and during each eclipse, many portals open up into the connected realm as the walls between the realms are at their thinnest.
Shadow - Noctumbra:
During the month of Shadow, the skies become dark and the sun is visible through a dark deep brown red filter. This month is highly connected to the realm of Shadowfell, in which it is believed to be a mirror world as well as the place of the dead. The dead are more likely to roam during this month and local legends say that doppelgangers may roam at this time as well, being one's dark version of themself. Festivals of the dead may occur during this month in different regions; some cultures will celebrate the lives of their deceased loved ones. Darker rituals are also very common during this month due to its closeness to the realm of the dead, during which, necromancers practice and experiment. Plant life is dormant and hibernating during this time as there is no sun to bring warmth. Crops die off and forests become darker places to be.
Frost - Winterveil:
The sun continues to be covered for most of this month, this creates a long winter full of frost, snow, and bitter cold. Blizzards and freezing weather sweeps through the world creating a harsh environment in some areas of the world. The lower layers of the world are not as heavily affected by the snowfall, but the cold is often unbearable. The magical energies of the eclipse may awaken powerful frost elementals and cause them to roam through the storms and cause havoc to any city nearby. Rivers and lakes may freeze over, and some of the frozen water globules may become ice balls that continue to float. Most cultures stay inside where it is warm, and those who don't risk becoming ill and not making it through the season. This is the month where the rations from the month of Terra are most important. Festivities may also be found in less affected areas, such as ice sculpting competitions, ice harvesting, snow sports and adventures, and iceball (similar to baseball, but with ice).
Gale - Etherealis:
The month of heavy winds that can move the floating islands that are not secured in place by any means. During this month, the winds may carry whispers and messages that are said to come from the spirits of the guardians guiding adventurers on new journeys. Tornadoes in the higher spheres are more likely to occur, as well as the high speed gusts of wind. Many companies utilize the high speed wind to sail their air ships for trade to destinations that normally take a long time to reach in a shorter time. Prisms of sunlight glistening off of any remaining frost in the air creates beautiful colors in the sky whenever the winds let up a bit. Migrations of flying beasts and creatures may be seen at this time, and the breeding of these creatures is very common as well in this month. Activities may include skydiving festivals, aeromancer carnivals, and flying contests with wings, creatures, or modes of transport.
Loch - Delugera:
The month of heavy rain and water activity. The waters come alive and bring life back to all of the islands above and below. During this time, there is higher activity among creatures that dwell in the waters, bringing large sea creatures to surface and sometimes causing them to emerge and cause problems at sea and on land. The waters that have been depleted during the dark months are renewed and purified by the magic of the eclipse. Tides may shift in the lower sphere of Sylva and Aqueth to reveal new tunnels leading into new caves under water. These may also reveal any lost ships that were in shallower areas. The healing springs throughout the world are most potent during this time, and they are highly sought after, as they can heal almost any ailment, disease, or injury; with the occasional ability to raise from the dead. New fountains and rivers may emerge in various places in the skies as well as on the inner spheres. In the cities beneath Aqueth, festivals celebrating their water heritage are held. Swimming competitions, and sailing races may occur. Ghost ships of those lost in the storms may also appear during this time.
Fey - Prismara:
New life grows abundantly, and the people begin to celebrate the end of the long suffering they have experienced over the last few months. The wandering woods appear during this month and cause all sorts of confusion. The Wild Hunt, led by a powerful archfey, rides through the land, chasing elusive and magical quarry, sometimes involving unwitting mortals. Dreams during this time can often influence the reality of the world, creating new monsters, causing mysterious disappearances, and giving adventurers clues to what they may be seeking. Fey contracts may occur, leaving unsuspecting travelers trapped in a binding contract with a mischievous or malevolent fey, which may lead to unexpected consequences. Colors during this month appear more vibrant and beautiful, but one should not look too closely at the colors, as they may also be an illusory trap by a fey being. Time feels different during this month, as if it goes by faster or slower, or out of order entirely. Fey markets may pop up throughout the many cities and kingdoms of the realm, selling wonderous magic items, though be careful when purchasing from a fey as to not get swindled. Many questionable festivals pop up everywhere held by the fey visitors and locals.
Anima - Lunaris:
Wildlife is more active during this month. Cursed creatures who are bound to the moon and the cycles of the realms may shift and become one with their cursed selves i.e. Were-creatures, vampires, Lycans, etc. People living in towns and cities could feel a strong urge to reconnect with nature, leading to an influx of urban dwellers seeking adventure in the wilderness. Certain animals become imbued with celestial powers during the eclipse, acting as protectors or guides for those in need. Some people may temporarily gain the ability to shapeshift into animals, or learn the language of animals during this eclipse, experiencing life from a different perspective. More exotic creatures may roam the lands during this month, and creatures that are normally aggressive, can be found to be quite tame. This is a time of peace between beast and people.
Pyra - Incendium:
The dry season with intense heatwaves, in which wildfires and fire elementals emerge to purge the world of the dead brush, and to prepare the soils of the world for new growth. Volcanic activity is most likely to occur during this time. Firelight festivals in which communities hold festivals that celebrate the power and beauty of fire, featuring fire dancing, firework displays, and bonfire gatherings. Firewalking trials are used to demonstrate courage and faith in the face of the Plane of Fire's influence. Weapons and armors imbued with the essence of the Plane of Fire become more potent and sought after during the eclipse. Phoenix sightings occur during this month during moments of rebirth and transformation. Firestorms and fire elementals may appear in places they do not normally appear, and cause problems for anyone nearby.
Sol - Eversun:
The sun remains bright through the entire month with no night. Whispers of enchanting music drift through the air during the twilight, captivating those who hear it. Rare and powerful oases may appear in arid lands, offering healing properties or visions to those who find them. Spells related to sunlight and radiant energy become heightened and more potent during this time. The absence of darkness causes shadows to behave strangely, sometimes moving independently or revealing glimpses of other planes. Animals and creatures accustomed to day-night cycles become disoriented, leading to unusual behavior and possibly dangerous encounters. This is when the crops begin to flourish under the perpetual sunlight, leading to an abundance of food and wealth, but also attracting attention and potential conflicts.
Celeste - Astralis:
The night is most vibrant in this month. Lights glow all around like the stars have come alive and come to visit. The world glows with a warm unearthly light that washes over the inhabitants and brings peace and hope. The ethereal realm can be seen during this month with strange translucent creatures roaming the skies and grounds. Beings from other planes with connections to celestial realms may visit or manifest during the darkened month and be revealed during this month. Mortals with strong faith or exceptional deeds might temporarily gain divine blessings or powers during the eclipse. Celestial bodies align in unique patterns, heralding auspicious or challenging events for various individuals or nations. Rare and potent divine artifacts could temporarily manifest in the mortal realm, sparking quests to retrieve or safeguard them. Mortals may be called upon to participate in celestial trials or competitions, earning favor or rewards from divine beings. A gathering of divine beings or celestial entities may occur, shaping the destiny of the world and its inhabitants.
Terra - Harvestglow:
The month of nature and the harvest, this is the month in which nature comes alive and is very fertile. Crops grow ten times faster than normal. Harvest festivals and feasts take place during this month and farmlands are able to save up crops for the nearing dark months. Plants and vines grow at an accelerated rate, covering buildings and landscapes in a lush, untamed wilderness. Magical gardens that only appear during the eclipse month spring up in remote locations, offering rare herbs and mystical flora. Druidic circles and nature-focused communities experience heightened magical abilities during this time. Magical mazes or labyrinths formed by intertwined plants challenge adventurers seeking hidden treasures. A rare potion derived from the roots of ancient trees grants temporary earth-based powers to those who consume it. Massive creatures, such as giants or colossal beasts, traverse the land during the month, leaving a profound impact on the environment. Nature spirits may appear to worthy individuals, granting them boons or guidance for the greater good.
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