One of my PC is a cleric of Sarenrae. They are currently in Magnimar and the 10 Sarenith is approaching...
The cleric player is expecting great celebrations for the Burning Blades, the religious holiday held on 10 Sarenith in honour of the goddess of light.
Which roleplay activities I could prepare? How to involve the other PCs, too? Also, I'd like to (slowly...) introduce my PCs to the Dawn of the Scarlet Sun module (they already know there is a succubus in Magnimar).
Any suggestion is more than welcome.
Well it seems that the biggest part of Burning Blades is the Dance of the Burning Blades. You could allow your cleric to “audition” at the local temple to Sarenrae. I’d suggest having them roll a perform (dance) or dexterity check DC 20. If they pass, they’re in the act. Then have them and several other NPC clerics roll again during the actual event to imagine how impressive it is.
Other ideas:
- Plays/ puppet shows/ songs detailing Sarenrae’s defeat of Rovagug- this could be especially cool if the party contains a bard.
- There are legends that say if one of Sarenrae’s followers is in mortal dangers on the day of Burning Blades, that her weapon will burn with holy fire.
- Because Sarenrae is the goddess of healing, perhaps all stores/ temples to Sarenrae are selling cure potions and wands discounted on this day or holding mass healings for the commoners.
- Other flavor ideas could be describing the food and decorations. Perhaps local taverns are selling a special booze (Burning Beer, Sunray Rum, Fire Whiskey, Sunbrew Sangria), sweets (cookies shaped like scimitars or sunburts) or meals (regular meals grilled or roasted served pipping hot with fiery spices/ peppers).
- And although Sarenrae is the goddess of the sun, the celebration need not end at sunset- there could be a planned firework show or the city could release hundreds of paper lanterns at once, symbolizing their faith that the Dawnflower remains with them even in the dark hours of night.
Thanks for the excellent suggestions.
I did not even think about implementing the Dance of the Burning Blades, which is definitely a must.
I had thought to have a feast with some stalls, including beverage and meals, but I have to admit that providing Burning Beer, cookies shaped like scimitars and meals with fiery spices is a great idea that will add the right flavor.
Maybe I will add few games for the PCs to occupy the time, and a puppet show detailing Sarenrae's defeat of Rovagug (my only other previous idea).
The release of hundreds of paper lanterns will close the celebration, I really like the symbolism you suggested.
I was quite afraid about the celebration, but now I'm sure my players, and the demanding cleric of Sarenrae, will love it.
Thanks again.