Winter Carnival: History and Traditions

Every year in late December, preparations for the Winter Carnival are in full swing in Esperia. During this grandest holiday of the year, the people light lanterns that adorn the land like twinkling stars, heralding the return of longer daylight after the winter solstice. In some regions, large bonfires known as the "Flame of Winter" are lit to drive away the cold and welcome the arrival of spring.

 

The Origins

The Winter Carnival originates from an ancient legend. Once upon a time, a Hypogean plunged a land into perpetual cold and darkness. As the people prayed for the return of light in desperation, a brilliant star heard their pleas and descended from the sky, bringing warmth and fire to the land. Its radiance rekindled hope and dispelled the long-lasting darkness. Under its guidance, the people drove out the Hypogean and reclaimed warmth and sunlight. After fulfilling its mission, the star returned to the sky, where it now quietly watches over the land.

 

Legend has it that the star will descend on the eve of Winter Carnival every year, bringing happiness, warmth, and hope to the kind-hearted. As such, Winter Carnival is not only a time for celebration and togetherness but also a day to honor light, courage, and love.

 

The Traditions

Lightbearer

On the snowy holiday night, people light lanterns and gather with family and friends, feasting on delicious food and enjoying each other's company. The royal family of the Lightbearer Empire also hosts a grand banquet, inviting the ministers and nobles. These gatherings are not limited to only family and friends, as there are also large-scale celebrations involving an entire village, street, or even city.

 

Wilder

During the Winter Carnival, the Wilders adorn trees with small lights, crystal ornaments, and ribbons. These decorated trees, known as "yuletide trees", symbolize the Lucent Tree. They also enjoy making decorations with evergreen plants, such as holly branches and herbal wreaths, to wish for abundance in the new year. It is said that couples who lock eyes beneath the floral wreaths must kiss.

 

Mauler

Thanks to their thick and warm fur, the Maulers are undeterred by the harsh, icy wind during winter. Every year, they host the annual Northwind Dance on a chilly night, where they make bonfires and dance passionately. Since snowfall is rare in the desert, it is an auspicious sign if the event coincides with a flurry. It is believed that young couples who meet during a snowy Northwind Dance are destined to marry the following year.

 

Graveborn

The Graveborn revel in the winter nights, as they find comfort in the cold and darkness. They enjoy making intricate snow sculptures and admiring their masterpieces with lanterns when snow blankets the land. The most beautiful and longest-lasting sculptures receive special rewards. While many artists focus on perfecting their skills to claim the second prize, some resort to trickery by disguising themselves as sculptures to gain an advantage...

 

Ending Remarks

The Winter Carnival is a widely celebrated holiday that offers solace during the winter. It serves as a reminder that, even in the darkest and coldest times, we are always surrounded by light, courage, and love. This day belongs not only to the living but also to the spirits who pursued hope and passed down their stories.