Category:Cult of the Morninglord - Revision history

LordLucide at 05:07, 17 April 2021

2021-04-17T05:07:24Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:07, 16 April 2021
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	Also called the [[Children of the Morninglord]]<ref name="Domains of Dread p. 59">[[Domains of Dread]] p. 59</ref>, [[The Cult of the Morninglord]] is the a growing faith centered in [[Barovia]]. In fact, its presence is almost exclusively in Barovia, as the Cult of the Morninglord is perhaps the only active faith in modern times that can be considered a "native" [[Barovian]] faith. The Cult worships [[The Morninglord]], a strangely distorted version of [[Lathander]] from the [[~~forgotten~~ Realms]] campaign setting, though Lathander himself is not necessarily the source of the Cult's [[priest]]s spells due to ~~the~~ [[Unspoken Pact]].		Also called the Children of the Morninglord<ref name="Domains of Dread p. 59">[[Domains of Dread]] p. 59</ref>, '''The Cult of the Morninglord''' is the a growing faith centered in [[Barovia]]. In fact, its presence is almost exclusively in Barovia, as the Cult of the Morninglord is perhaps the only active faith in modern times that can be considered a "native" [[Barovian]] faith. The Cult worships [[The Morninglord]], a strangely distorted version of [[Lathander]] from the [[Forgotten Realms]] campaign setting, though Lathander himself is not necessarily the source of the Cult's [[priest]]s spells due to [[The Unspoken Pact]].

	Though the Mornginglord's faithful may not openly oppose Strahd or hunt [[vampire]]s, a [[secret society]] of [[vampire hunter]]s exists within the Cult known as the [[Dawnslayers]]. One of their tenets is that of ~~the~~ [[Midnight Clarion]].<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">[[Gazetteer I]] p. 24</ref>		Though the Mornginglord's faithful may not openly oppose [[Count Strahd von Zarovich]] or hunt [[vampire]]s, a [[secret society]] of [[vampire hunter]]s exists within the Cult known as the [[:Category:The Dawnslayers\|The Dawnslayers]]. One of their tenets is that of [[:Category:The Midnight Clarion\|The Midnight Clarion]].<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">[[Gazetteer I]] p. 24</ref>

	==Overview==		==Overview==
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	The Cult's religious authority is decentralized into largely independent [[temple]]s. Doctrine leaves the [[justice]] that comes to all [[:Category:Evildoer\|evildoers]]s not to [[law]]s made by [[human]]ity, but rather to the actions of his [[worshiper]]s or through [[fate]] catching up with the [[transgressor]]s. Still, the Cult does have its traditions. [[Martyr]]s for the [[faith]] may become [[saint]]ed as [[chanticleer]]s, and [[Nevermore Night]] is a commonly observed religious [[holiday]].<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref>		The Cult's religious authority is decentralized into largely independent [[temple]]s. Doctrine leaves the [[justice]] that comes to all [[:Category:Evildoer\|evildoers]]s not to [[law]]s made by [[human]]ity, but rather to the actions of his [[worshiper]]s or through [[fate]] catching up with the [[transgressor]]s. Still, the Cult does have its traditions. [[Martyr]]s for the [[faith]] may become [[saint]]ed as [[chanticleer]]s, and [[Nevermore Night]] is a commonly observed religious [[holiday]].<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref>

	Church doctrine holds [[undead]] as common enemy to the Morninglord and the dawn. They are to to be destroyed when encountered.<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref> To this end, a [[secret society]] of [[vampire hunter\|vampire]] and [[undead hunter\|undead hunter]]s exist within the faith. They are called ~~the [[~~Dawnslayers]]. The [[Herald of Dawn]] [[Prestige Class]] is associated with the Morninglord's undead hunters. The Dawnslayers' base of operation is the [[catacombs]] beneath the [[Sanctuary of First Light]], the greatest of the Cult's temples. It is located in [[Krezk]].<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">[[Gazetteer I]] p. 24</ref>		Church doctrine holds [[undead]] as common enemy to the Morninglord and the dawn. They are to to be destroyed when encountered.<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref> To this end, a [[secret society]] of [[vampire hunter\|vampire]] and [[undead hunter\|undead hunter]]s exist within the faith. They are called The Dawnslayers. The [[:Category:Herald of Dawn\|Herald of Dawn]] [[Prestige Class]] is associated with the Morninglord's undead hunters. The Dawnslayers' base of operation is the [[catacombs]] beneath the [[Sanctuary of First Light]], the greatest of the Cult's temples. It is located in [[Krezk]].<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">[[Gazetteer I]] p. 24</ref>

	==Statistical Information==		==Statistical Information==
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	==History==		==History==
	===Humble Beginnings===		===Humble Beginnings===
	By the time the Cult first came into existence, the [[Church of Andral]] had largely faded from existence, leaving the Barovians mostly [[faithless]]. In fact, the Cult's origins did not begin with a formal founding by the Barovian people but rather in the mistaken [[delusion]]s of an [[outlander]] child. [[Martyn Pelkar]], whom would later become known as [[Martyn the Mad]] by the majority of the Barovians of his time, was born in the [[Outander Land]] of [[Faerun]] some ten years before his family was taken by [[the Mists]] to Barovia. The year by the [[Barovian Calendar]] was [[475 BC]], the same year that the Mists had claimed [[Jander Sunstar]].<ref>[[Vampire of the Mists]] p. 98-102, p. 267 gives the year of Jander's arrival.</ref>		By the time the Cult first came into existence, the [[:Category:The Church of Andral\|Church of Andral]] had largely faded from existence, leaving the Barovians mostly [[faithless]]. In fact, the Cult's origins did not begin with a formal founding by the Barovian people but rather in the mistaken [[delusion]]s of an [[outlander]] child. [[Martyn Pelkar]], whom would later become known as Martyn the Mad by the majority of the Barovians of his time, was born in the [[Outander Land]] of [[Faerun]] some ten years before his family was taken by [[the Mists]] to Barovia. The year by the [[Barovian Calendar]] was [[475 BC]], the same year that the Mists had claimed [[Jander Sunstar]].<ref>[[Vampire of the Mists]] p. 98-102, p. 267 gives the year of Jander's arrival.</ref>

	While Martyn's family camped in the woods of Barovia, [[Count Strahd]], his vampiric minions, and a somewhat reluctant Jander crept upon them. Most of Martyn's family was [[murdered]] and [[exsanguinated]] by the vampires, but Martyn was spared at Jander Sunstar's insistence. As Jander was a [[gold elf]] with a correspondingly golden countance, the then 10-year-old Pelkar mistook Jander for Lathander Morninglord, interpreting Jander's intercession as an act of divine mercy stopping the vampires.<ref>VotM p. 98-102</ref>		While Martyn's family camped in the woods of Barovia, [[Count Strahd von Zarovich]], his vampiric minions, and a somewhat reluctant Jander crept upon them. Most of Martyn's family was [[murdered]] and [[exsanguinated]] by the vampires, but Martyn was spared at Jander Sunstar's insistence. As Jander was a [[gold elf]] with a correspondingly golden countance, the then 10-year-old Pelkar mistook Jander for Lathander Morninglord, interpreting Jander's intercession as an act of divine mercy stopping the vampires.<ref>VotM p. 98-102</ref>

	Soon after in that same year of 475 BC, Martyn Pelkar emerged from the [[Svalich Woods]] into the [[Village of Barovia]], murmuring about being saved by the Morninglord (see above). His talk lays the foundation for the Cult's emergence later on.<ref>[[Gazetteer I]] p. 18</ref> Over the next decade, Martyn preached the word of the Morninglord for a decade<ref>VotM p. 134</ref>, fixing up the old church in the Village of Barovia and restoring its status as a [[holy]] place.<ref>VotM p. 136</ref> Martyn managed to spread his the word to a handful of souls, but he was known as a harmless but [[mad]] [[eccentric]] by most Barovians.		Soon after in that same year of 475 BC, Martyn Pelkar emerged from the [[Svalich Woods]] into the [[Village of Barovia]], murmuring about being saved by the Morninglord (see above). His talk lays the foundation for the Cult's emergence later on.<ref>[[Gazetteer I]] p. 18</ref> Over the next decade, Martyn preached the word of the Morninglord for a decade<ref>VotM p. 134</ref>, fixing up the old church in the Village of Barovia and restoring its status as a [[holy]] place.<ref>VotM p. 136</ref> Martyn managed to spread his the word to a handful of souls, but he was known as a harmless but [[mad]] [[eccentric]] by most Barovians.

	In [[485 BC]], disaster struck the [[Kartova Family]], when Strahd and his cronies beset the family's cottage and burned it to the ground, killing the majority inside. [[Sasha Petrovich]], was away at the time, allowing his life to be spared. A [[giomorgo]] by birth, Sasha's pleas for assistance went unanswered by the villagers, blaming the fire on his [[Vistani]] relatives. Martyn came upon the scene and helped Sasha collected the bodies of his deceased relatives and properly dispose of them such that they would not rise as undead. Although by chance Sasha's [[Ludmilla Kartova Radavich\|aunt Ludmilla]] had survived the attack, Martyn [[adopted]] the now [[orphaned]] and [[outcast]] boy.<ref>VotM p. 140-170, 214</ref>		In [[485 BC]], disaster struck the [[:Category:Kartova Family\|Kartova Family]], when Strahd and his cronies beset the family's cottage and burned it to the ground, killing the majority inside. [[Sasha Petrovich]], was away at the time, allowing his life to be spared. A [[giomorgo]] by birth, Sasha's pleas for assistance went unanswered by the villagers, blaming the fire on his [[:Category:Vistani\|Vistani]] relatives. Martyn came upon the scene and helped Sasha collected the bodies of his deceased relatives and properly dispose of them such that they would not rise as undead. Although by chance Sasha's [[Ludmilla Kartova Radavich\|aunt Ludmilla]] had survived the attack, Martyn [[adopted]] the now [[orphaned]] and [[outcast]] boy.<ref>VotM p. 140-170, 214</ref>

	For almost a decade and a half, Martyn raised Sasha as his own son and instructed him in the ways of the Morninglord's faith.<ref name="VotM p. 213-214">VotM p. 213-214</ref> Sasha too became one of the Morninglord's priests, and he aided his [[mentor]] into gathering a small number of [[convert]]s to the Morninglord's cult.<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">[[Gazetteer I]] p. 24</ref> However, in [[499 BC]], Martyn died of [[disease\|sickness]], refusing to allow himself [[healing]] as he thought it was Lathander's will. Sasha mourned the death,<ref name="VotM p. 213-214">VotM p. 213-214</ref> but continued his covert [[vigilante]] crusade against the vampires of Barovia Village he had started months earlier.		For almost a decade and a half, Martyn raised Sasha as his own son and instructed him in the ways of the Morninglord's faith.<ref name="VotM p. 213-214">VotM p. 213-214</ref> Sasha too became one of the Morninglord's priests, and he aided his [[mentor]] into gathering a small number of [[convert]]s to the Morninglord's cult.<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">[[Gazetteer I]] p. 24</ref> However, in [[499 BC]], Martyn died of [[disease\|sickness]], refusing to allow himself [[healing]] as he thought it was Lathander's will. Sasha mourned the death,<ref name="VotM p. 213-214">VotM p. 213-214</ref> but continued his covert [[vigilante]] crusade against the vampires of Barovia Village he had started months earlier.

	In [[500 BC]], [[Jander Sunstar]] contacted Sasha about the elimination of Strahd von Zarovich, outing the count as both vampire and the [[murderer]] of Sasha's family. Though he deduced Jandar's in both the [[massacre]] of Martyn's family and his own, Sasha was able to set aside his differences with Jander in order to unite against Strahd.<ref name="VotM p. 268-277">VotM p. 268-277, p. 268 has 500 BC as the last journal entry he reads before hatching his plan.</ref> Subsequently, Jander, Sasha, and their friend [[Leisl]] journeyed into [[Castle Ravenloft]], retrieved the [[Holy Symbol of Ravenkind]] and attempted to destroy Strahd and his forces.<ref name="VotM p. 303-333">VotM p. 303-333</ref>		In [[500 BC]], Jander Sunstar contacted Sasha about the elimination of Strahd von Zarovich, outing the count as both vampire and the [[murderer]] of Sasha's family. Though he deduced Jandar's in both the [[massacre]] of Martyn's family and his own, Sasha was able to set aside his differences with Jander in order to unite against Strahd.<ref name="VotM p. 268-277">VotM p. 268-277, p. 268 has 500 BC as the last journal entry he reads before hatching his plan.</ref> Subsequently, Jander, Sasha, and their friend [[Leisl]] journeyed into [[Castle Ravenloft]], retrieved the [[Holy Symbol of Ravenkind]] and attempted to destroy Strahd and his forces.<ref name="VotM p. 303-333">VotM p. 303-333</ref>

	Though they survived an ambush by Strahd and the ensuing epic battle, the trio failed to destroy Strahd<ref name="VotM p. 303-333">VotM p. 303-333</ref>. They only drove him into retreat and hibernation. Moreover, their Pyrrhic victory came at a high cost. [[Katya]], a [[werewolf]] ally and lover of Strahd, heavily [[injured]] Liesl and in all likelihood [[infected]] with [[lycanthropy]]. Jander, realizing [[the Dark Powers]] were manipulating him into fighting with Strahd, opted for [[suicide]] by letting the [[sun]]'s rays consume him. Sasha and Leisl went into hiding<ref>VotM p. 333-341</ref>. {{Spec\|They may have left for [[Vallaki]], rebuilding the faith there}}		Though they survived an ambush by Strahd and the ensuing epic battle, the trio failed to destroy Strahd<ref name="VotM p. 303-333">VotM p. 303-333</ref>. They only drove him into retreat and hibernation. Moreover, their Pyrrhic victory came at a high cost. [[Katrina Yakovlena Pulchenka\|Katya]], a [[werewolf]] ally and lover of Strahd, heavily [[injured]] Liesl and in all likelihood [[infected]] with [[lycanthropy]]. Jander, realizing [[the Dark Powers]] were manipulating him into fighting with Strahd, opted for [[suicide]] by letting the [[sun]]'s rays consume him. Sasha and Leisl went into hiding<ref>VotM p. 333-341</ref>. {{Spec\|They may have left for [[Vallaki]], rebuilding the faith there}}

	===Development and Journey West===		===Development and Journey West===
	Though Sasha knew the truth of Martyn Pelkar's supposed divine inspiration, Sasha took his late mentor's message and adopted it as his own. Sasha continued to spread the faith, and his secret oath of vengeance against Strahd and others of his kind evolved into ~~the~~ [[Midnight Clarion]], a covert policy of destruction to the undead, though mercy to [[afflicted lycanthrope]]s. According to [[Gazetteer I]], how this policy of mercy came to be is unknown to present-day Barovians<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">[[Gazetteer I]] p. 24</ref>, {{spec\|it most likely originated in response to Liesl's infection.}}} Regardless, ~~the~~ [[Dawnslayers]] eventually emerged as a [[secret society]] within the faith, so secret in fact that of the Morninglord's own faithful know not of its existence<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">[[Gazetteer I]] p. 24</ref>		Though Sasha knew the truth of Martyn Pelkar's supposed divine inspiration, Sasha took his late mentor's message and adopted it as his own. Sasha continued to spread the faith, and his secret oath of vengeance against Strahd and others of his kind evolved into [[:Category:The Midnight Clarion\|The Midnight Clarion]], a covert policy of destruction to the undead, though mercy to [[afflicted lycanthrope]]s. According to [[Gazetteer I]], how this policy of mercy came to be is unknown to present-day Barovians<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">[[Gazetteer I]] p. 24</ref>, {{spec\|it most likely originated in response to Liesl's infection.}}} Regardless, [[:Category:The Dawnslayers\|The Dawnslayers]] eventually emerged as a [[secret society]] within the faith, so secret in fact that of the Morninglord's own faithful know not of its existence<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">[[Gazetteer I]] p. 24</ref>

	The Cult of the Morninglord gradually moved west, relocating its headquarters, the [[Sanctuary of Blessed Succor]], first to [[Vallaki]] and then to [[Krezk]]. Critics attribute this western move as the Cult's attempt to put space between its greatest [[temple]] and Strahd.<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">[[Gazetteer I]] p. 24</ref>		The Cult of the Morninglord gradually moved west, relocating its headquarters, the [[Sanctuary of Blessed Succor]], first to [[Vallaki]] and then to [[Krezk]]. Critics attribute this western move as the Cult's attempt to put space between its greatest [[temple]] and Strahd.<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">[[Gazetteer I]] p. 24</ref>

	===The Great Upheaval===		===The Great Upheaval===
	In [[740 BC]], the seeming [[apocalypse]] known as [[~~the~~ Great Upheaval]] occurred. The domain of [[Gundarak]] dissolved, its western half absorbed by [[Barovia]]. Upon orders of Count Strahd, the Barovians were quick to invade and annex the formerly [[Gundarakite]] controlled lands.<ref name="Domains of Dread p. 59">[[Domains of Dread]] p. 59</ref><ref name="Gazetteer I p. 19">Gaz I p. 19</ref> Subsequently, the optimistic and hopeful message of the Morninglord's cult attracted and the attention and veneration by many now [[oppressed]] Gundarakites.<ref name="Domains of Dread p. 59">[[Domains of Dread]] p. 59</ref><ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">[[Gazetteer I]] p. 24</ref> This has caused a number of the Barovian authorities to suspect the Cult's link to Gundarakite rebel activity.<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">[[Gazetteer I]] p. 24</ref>		In [[740 BC]], the seeming [[apocalypse]] known as [[The Grand Conjunction\|The Great Upheaval]] occurred. The domain of [[Gundarak]] dissolved, its western half absorbed by [[Barovia]]. Upon orders of Count Strahd, the Barovians were quick to invade and annex the formerly [[:Category:Gundarakite\|Gundarakite]] controlled lands.<ref name="Domains of Dread p. 59">[[Domains of Dread]] p. 59</ref><ref name="Gazetteer I p. 19">Gaz I p. 19</ref> Subsequently, the optimistic and hopeful message of the Morninglord's cult attracted and the attention and veneration by many now [[oppressed]] Gundarakites.<ref name="Domains of Dread p. 59">[[Domains of Dread]] p. 59</ref><ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">[[Gazetteer I]] p. 24</ref> This has caused a number of the Barovian authorities to suspect the Cult's link to Gundarakite rebel activity.<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">[[Gazetteer I]] p. 24</ref>

	==The Cult Outside Barovia==		==The Cult Outside Barovia==
	Strictly speaking, the Cult of the Morninglord is not exclusively confined to Barovia, though its presence outside of Barovia in [[canon]] [[source]]s. In the [[Borcan]] (formerly [[Dorvinian]]) town of [[Ilvin]], a single [[Barovian]] [[priest]] sits reading his [[book]]s in solitude in a [[Ilvin Temple of the Morninglord\|a rickety temple]] there.<ref name=ref1>[http://www.fraternityofshadows.com/TheVault/Gaz4WE_Borca_DreadPossibility_Cities.pdf Gaz4 Author's Notes]</ref> {{canon-small}}The [[Mordentish]] [[paladin]]-[[hero]] [[Eia Pax]] was recruited into the Cult as a girl by a wandering [[priestess]], and Pax was raised and [[mentored]] by [[Brother Ashmore]] in [[Brother Ashmore's Monastery\|a remote monastery]] in [[Tepest]]. She went back to her monastery and is currently training an elite group of [[undead hunter]]s there.<ref>[[Heroes of Light]] p. 80-82</ref>		Strictly speaking, the Cult of the Morninglord is not exclusively confined to Barovia, though its presence outside of Barovia in [[canon]] [[source]]s. In the [[:Category:Borcan\|Borcan]] (formerly [[:Dorvinian\|Dorvinian]]) town of [[Ilvin]], a single [[Barovian]] [[priest]] sits reading his [[book]]s in solitude in a [[Ilvin Temple of the Morninglord\|a rickety temple]] there.<ref name=ref1>[http://www.fraternityofshadows.com/TheVault/Gaz4WE_Borca_DreadPossibility_Cities.pdf Gaz4 Author's Notes]</ref> {{canon-small}}The [[:Category:Mordentish\|Mordentish]] [[:Category:Paladin\|paladin]]-[[:Category:Hero\|hero]] [[Eia Pax]] was recruited into the Cult as a girl by a wandering [[priestess]], and Pax was raised and [[mentored]] by [[Brother Ashmore]] in [[Brother Ashmore's Monastery\|a remote monastery]] in [[Tepest]]. She went back to her monastery and is currently training an elite group of [[:Category:Undead Hunter\|undead hunter]]s there.<ref>[[Heroes of Light]] p. 80-82</ref>

	The Cult of the Morninglord is known in [[Nova Vaasa]] thanks to its trade with Barovia, but the Morninglord is not worshiped there. Rather, he is despised, for his doctrine is all but diametrically opposed to that of the [[Church of the Lawgiver]].<ref>[[Gazetteer V]] p. 36</ref>		The Cult of the Morninglord is known in [[Nova Vaasa]] thanks to its trade with Barovia, but the Morninglord is not worshiped there. Rather, he is despised, for his doctrine is all but diametrically opposed to that of the [[:Category:Church of the Lawgiver\|Church of the Lawgiver]].<ref>[[Gazetteer V]] p. 36</ref>

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The Lesser Evil: cleared up reference errors

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cleared up reference errors

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	The Cult's religious authority is decentralized into largely independent [[temple]]s. Doctrine leaves the [[justice]] that comes to all [[:Category:Evildoer\|evildoers]]s not to [[law]]s made by [[human]]ity, but rather to the actions of his [[worshiper]]s or through [[fate]] catching up with the [[transgressor]]s. Still, the Cult does have its traditions. [[Martyr]]s for the [[faith]] may become [[saint]]ed as [[chanticleer]]s, and [[Nevermore Night]] is a commonly observed religious [[holiday]].<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref>		The Cult's religious authority is decentralized into largely independent [[temple]]s. Doctrine leaves the [[justice]] that comes to all [[:Category:Evildoer\|evildoers]]s not to [[law]]s made by [[human]]ity, but rather to the actions of his [[worshiper]]s or through [[fate]] catching up with the [[transgressor]]s. Still, the Cult does have its traditions. [[Martyr]]s for the [[faith]] may become [[saint]]ed as [[chanticleer]]s, and [[Nevermore Night]] is a commonly observed religious [[holiday]].<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref>

	Church doctrine holds [[undead]] as common enemy to the Morninglord and the dawn. They are to to be destroyed when encountered.<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref> To this end, a [[secret society]] of [[vampire hunter\|vampire]] and [[undead hunter\|undead hunter]]s exist within the faith. They are called the [[Dawnslayers]]. The [[Herald of Dawn]] [[Prestige Class]] is associated with the Morninglord's undead hunters. The Dawnslayers' base of operation is the [[catacombs]] beneath the [[Sanctuary of First Light]], the greatest of the Cult's temples. It is located in [[Krezk]].<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">~~Gaz~~ I p. 24</ref>		Church doctrine holds [[undead]] as common enemy to the Morninglord and the dawn. They are to to be destroyed when encountered.<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref> To this end, a [[secret society]] of [[vampire hunter\|vampire]] and [[undead hunter\|undead hunter]]s exist within the faith. They are called the [[Dawnslayers]]. The [[Herald of Dawn]] [[Prestige Class]] is associated with the Morninglord's undead hunters. The Dawnslayers' base of operation is the [[catacombs]] beneath the [[Sanctuary of First Light]], the greatest of the Cult's temples. It is located in [[Krezk]].<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">[[Gazetteer I]] p. 24</ref>

	==Statistical Information==		==Statistical Information==
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	===The Great Upheaval===		===The Great Upheaval===
	In [[740 BC]], the seeming [[apocalypse]] known as [[the Great Upheaval]] occurred. The domain of [[Gundarak]] dissolved, its western half absorbed by [[Barovia]]. Upon orders of Count Strahd, the Barovians were quick to invade and annex the formerly [[Gundarakite]] controlled lands.<ref name="Domains of Dread p. 59">[[Domains of Dread]] p. 59</ref><ref name="Gazetteer I p. 19">Gaz I p. 19</ref> Subsequently, the optimistic and hopeful message of the Morninglord's cult attracted and the attention and veneration by many now [[oppressed]] Gundarakites.<ref name="Domains of Dread p. 59">[[Domains of Dread]] p. 59</ref><ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">~~Gaz~~ I p. 24</ref> This has caused a number of the Barovian authorities to suspect the Cult's link to Gundarakite rebel activity.<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">~~Gaz~~ I p. 24</ref>		In [[740 BC]], the seeming [[apocalypse]] known as [[the Great Upheaval]] occurred. The domain of [[Gundarak]] dissolved, its western half absorbed by [[Barovia]]. Upon orders of Count Strahd, the Barovians were quick to invade and annex the formerly [[Gundarakite]] controlled lands.<ref name="Domains of Dread p. 59">[[Domains of Dread]] p. 59</ref><ref name="Gazetteer I p. 19">Gaz I p. 19</ref> Subsequently, the optimistic and hopeful message of the Morninglord's cult attracted and the attention and veneration by many now [[oppressed]] Gundarakites.<ref name="Domains of Dread p. 59">[[Domains of Dread]] p. 59</ref><ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">[[Gazetteer I]] p. 24</ref> This has caused a number of the Barovian authorities to suspect the Cult's link to Gundarakite rebel activity.<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">[[Gazetteer I]] p. 24</ref>

	==The Cult Outside Barovia==		==The Cult Outside Barovia==

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The Cult Outside Barovia

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	==The Cult Outside Barovia==		==The Cult Outside Barovia==
	Strictly speaking, the Cult of the Morninglord is not exclusively confined to Barovia, though its presence outside of Barovia in [[canon]] [[source]]s. In the [[Borcan]] (formerly [[Dorvinian]]) town of [[Ilvin]], a single [[Barovian]] [[priest]] sits reading his [[book]]s in solitude in a [[Ilvin Temple of the Morninglord\|a rickety temple]] there.<ref name=ref1>[http://www.fraternityofshadows.com/TheVault/Gaz4WE_Borca_DreadPossibility_Cities.pdf Gaz4 Author's Notes]</ref> {{canon-small}}The [[Mordentish]] [[paladin]]-[[hero]] [[Eia Pax]] was recruited into the Cult as a girl by a wandering [[priestess]], and Pax was raised and [[mentored]] by [[Brother Ashmore]] in [[Brother Ashmore's Monastery\|a remote monastery]] in [[Tepest]]. She went back to her monastery and is currently training an elite group of [[undead hunter]]s there.<ref>[[Heroes of Light]] p. 80-82</ref>		Strictly speaking, the Cult of the Morninglord is not exclusively confined to Barovia, though its presence outside of Barovia in [[canon]] [[source]]s. In the [[Borcan]] (formerly [[Dorvinian]]) town of [[Ilvin]], a single [[Barovian]] [[priest]] sits reading his [[book]]s in solitude in a [[Ilvin Temple of the Morninglord\|a rickety temple]] there.<ref name=ref1>[http://www.fraternityofshadows.com/TheVault/Gaz4WE_Borca_DreadPossibility_Cities.pdf Gaz4 Author's Notes]</ref> {{canon-small}}The [[Mordentish]] [[paladin]]-[[hero]] [[Eia Pax]] was recruited into the Cult as a girl by a wandering [[priestess]], and Pax was raised and [[mentored]] by [[Brother Ashmore]] in [[Brother Ashmore's Monastery\|a remote monastery]] in [[Tepest]]. She went back to her monastery and is currently training an elite group of [[undead hunter]]s there.<ref>[[Heroes of Light]] p. 80-82</ref>

			The Cult of the Morninglord is known in [[Nova Vaasa]] thanks to its trade with Barovia, but the Morninglord is not worshiped there. Rather, he is despised, for his doctrine is all but diametrically opposed to that of the [[Church of the Lawgiver]].<ref>[[Gazetteer V]] p. 36</ref>

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The Lesser Evil: /* Spell domains (3rd Edition) */

2016-12-24T01:32:53Z

Spell domains (3rd Edition)

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	===[[Spell domain]]s (3rd Edition)===		===[[Spell domain]]s (3rd Edition)===
			{{canon}}
	[[Good Domain]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref><ref name="Ravenloft Player's Handbook p. 69">RLPHB p. 69</ref>, [[Luck Domain]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref><ref name="Ravenloft Player's Handbook p. 69">RLPHB p. 69</ref>, [[Protection Domain]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref><ref name="Ravenloft Player's Handbook p. 69">RLPHB p. 69</ref>, [[Salvation Domain]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref>, [[Sun Domain]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref><ref name="Ravenloft Player's Handbook p. 69">RLPHB p. 69</ref>		[[Good Domain]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref><ref name="Ravenloft Player's Handbook p. 69">RLPHB p. 69</ref>, [[Luck Domain]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref><ref name="Ravenloft Player's Handbook p. 69">RLPHB p. 69</ref>, [[Protection Domain]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref><ref name="Ravenloft Player's Handbook p. 69">RLPHB p. 69</ref>, [[Salvation Domain]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref>, [[Sun Domain]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref><ref name="Ravenloft Player's Handbook p. 69">RLPHB p. 69</ref>

The Lesser Evil: Eia Pax in Tepest/ Geiger in Ilvin

2016-12-24T01:32:04Z

Eia Pax in Tepest/ Geiger in Ilvin

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	===The Great Upheaval===		===The Great Upheaval===
	In [[740 BC]], the seeming [[apocalypse]] known as [[the Great Upheaval]] occurred. The domain of [[Gundarak]] dissolved, its western half absorbed by [[Barovia]]. Upon orders of Count Strahd, the Barovians were quick to invade and annex the formerly [[Gundarakite]] controlled lands.<ref name="Domains of Dread p. 59">[[Domains of Dread]] p. 59</ref><ref name="Gazetteer I p. 19">Gaz I p. 19</ref> Subsequently, the optimistic and hopeful message of the Morninglord's cult attracted and the attention and veneration by many now [[oppressed]] Gundarakites.<ref name="Domains of Dread p. 59">[[Domains of Dread]] p. 59</ref><ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">Gaz I p. 24</ref> This has caused a number of the Barovian authorities to suspect the Cult's link to Gundarakite rebel activity.<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">Gaz I p. 24</ref>		In [[740 BC]], the seeming [[apocalypse]] known as [[the Great Upheaval]] occurred. The domain of [[Gundarak]] dissolved, its western half absorbed by [[Barovia]]. Upon orders of Count Strahd, the Barovians were quick to invade and annex the formerly [[Gundarakite]] controlled lands.<ref name="Domains of Dread p. 59">[[Domains of Dread]] p. 59</ref><ref name="Gazetteer I p. 19">Gaz I p. 19</ref> Subsequently, the optimistic and hopeful message of the Morninglord's cult attracted and the attention and veneration by many now [[oppressed]] Gundarakites.<ref name="Domains of Dread p. 59">[[Domains of Dread]] p. 59</ref><ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">Gaz I p. 24</ref> This has caused a number of the Barovian authorities to suspect the Cult's link to Gundarakite rebel activity.<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">Gaz I p. 24</ref>

			==The Cult Outside Barovia==
			Strictly speaking, the Cult of the Morninglord is not exclusively confined to Barovia, though its presence outside of Barovia in [[canon]] [[source]]s. In the [[Borcan]] (formerly [[Dorvinian]]) town of [[Ilvin]], a single [[Barovian]] [[priest]] sits reading his [[book]]s in solitude in a [[Ilvin Temple of the Morninglord\|a rickety temple]] there.<ref name=ref1>[http://www.fraternityofshadows.com/TheVault/Gaz4WE_Borca_DreadPossibility_Cities.pdf Gaz4 Author's Notes]</ref> {{canon-small}}The [[Mordentish]] [[paladin]]-[[hero]] [[Eia Pax]] was recruited into the Cult as a girl by a wandering [[priestess]], and Pax was raised and [[mentored]] by [[Brother Ashmore]] in [[Brother Ashmore's Monastery\|a remote monastery]] in [[Tepest]]. She went back to her monastery and is currently training an elite group of [[undead hunter]]s there.<ref>[[Heroes of Light]] p. 80-82</ref>

	{{ref}}		{{ref}}

The Lesser Evil: /* Spell domains= */

2016-12-04T17:03:43Z

Spell domains=

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	*[[Shortspear]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref>		*[[Shortspear]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref>

	==[[Spell domain]]s===		===[[Spell domain]]s (3rd Edition)===
	[[Good Domain]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref><ref name="Ravenloft Player's Handbook p. 69">RLPHB p. 69</ref>, [[Luck Domain]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref><ref name="Ravenloft Player's Handbook p. 69">RLPHB p. 69</ref>, [[Protection Domain]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref><ref name="Ravenloft Player's Handbook p. 69">RLPHB p. 69</ref>, [[Salvation Domain]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref>, [[Sun Domain]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref><ref name="Ravenloft Player's Handbook p. 69">RLPHB p. 69</ref>		[[Good Domain]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref><ref name="Ravenloft Player's Handbook p. 69">RLPHB p. 69</ref>, [[Luck Domain]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref><ref name="Ravenloft Player's Handbook p. 69">RLPHB p. 69</ref>, [[Protection Domain]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref><ref name="Ravenloft Player's Handbook p. 69">RLPHB p. 69</ref>, [[Salvation Domain]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref>, [[Sun Domain]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref><ref name="Ravenloft Player's Handbook p. 69">RLPHB p. 69</ref>

The Lesser Evil: /* Statistical Information */

2016-12-04T16:59:25Z

Statistical Information

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	[[Chaotic Good]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref><ref name="Ravenloft Player's Handbook p. 69">RLPHB p. 69</ref>		[[Chaotic Good]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref><ref name="Ravenloft Player's Handbook p. 69">RLPHB p. 69</ref>

	===[[Favored Weapon===		===[[Favored Weapon]]===
	{{questionably-canon}}		{{questionably-canon}}
	*[[Halfspear]]<ref name="Ravenloft Player's Handbook p. 69">RLPHB p. 69</ref>		*[[Halfspear]]<ref name="Ravenloft Player's Handbook p. 69">RLPHB p. 69</ref>

The Lesser Evil at 16:50, 4 December 2016

2016-12-04T16:50:30Z

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	The Cult's religious authority is decentralized into largely independent [[temple]]s. Doctrine leaves the [[justice]] that comes to all [[:Category:Evildoer\|evildoers]]s not to [[law]]s made by [[human]]ity, but rather to the actions of his [[worshiper]]s or through [[fate]] catching up with the [[transgressor]]s. Still, the Cult does have its traditions. [[Martyr]]s for the [[faith]] may become [[saint]]ed as [[chanticleer]]s, and [[Nevermore Night]] is a commonly observed religious [[holiday]].<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref>		The Cult's religious authority is decentralized into largely independent [[temple]]s. Doctrine leaves the [[justice]] that comes to all [[:Category:Evildoer\|evildoers]]s not to [[law]]s made by [[human]]ity, but rather to the actions of his [[worshiper]]s or through [[fate]] catching up with the [[transgressor]]s. Still, the Cult does have its traditions. [[Martyr]]s for the [[faith]] may become [[saint]]ed as [[chanticleer]]s, and [[Nevermore Night]] is a commonly observed religious [[holiday]].<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref>

			Church doctrine holds [[undead]] as common enemy to the Morninglord and the dawn. They are to to be destroyed when encountered.<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref> To this end, a [[secret society]] of [[vampire hunter\|vampire]] and [[undead hunter\|undead hunter]]s exist within the faith. They are called the [[Dawnslayers]]. The [[Herald of Dawn]] [[Prestige Class]] is associated with the Morninglord's undead hunters. The Dawnslayers' base of operation is the [[catacombs]] beneath the [[Sanctuary of First Light]], the greatest of the Cult's temples. It is located in [[Krezk]].<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">Gaz I p. 24</ref>

	~~Church doctrine holds~~ [[~~undead~~]] ~~as common enemy to the Morninglord and the dawn. They are to to be destroyed when encountered.~~<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref> ~~To this end, a~~ [[~~secret society]] of~~ [[~~vampire hunter\|vampire]] and [[undead hunter\|undead hunter~~]]s ~~exist within the faith~~. ~~They are called the~~ [[~~Dawnslayers~~]]. ~~The~~ [[~~Herald of Dawn~~]] [[~~Prestige Class~~]] ~~is associated with the Morninglord~~'s ~~undead hunters~~. ~~The Dawnslayers' base of operation is the~~ [[~~catacombs~~]] ~~beneath the~~ [[~~Sanctuary of First Light~~]]~~, the greatest of the Cult~~'s ~~temples~~. ~~It is located in~~ [[~~Krezk~~]].<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">Gaz I p. 24</ref>		==Statistical Information==

			===[[Alignment]]===
			[[Chaotic Good]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref><ref name="Ravenloft Player's Handbook p. 69">RLPHB p. 69</ref>

			===[[Favored Weapon===
			{{questionably-canon}}
			*[[Halfspear]]<ref name="Ravenloft Player's Handbook p. 69">RLPHB p. 69</ref>
			*[[Shortspear]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref>

			==[[Spell domain]]s===
			[[Good Domain]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref><ref name="Ravenloft Player's Handbook p. 69">RLPHB p. 69</ref>, [[Luck Domain]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref><ref name="Ravenloft Player's Handbook p. 69">RLPHB p. 69</ref>, [[Protection Domain]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref><ref name="Ravenloft Player's Handbook p. 69">RLPHB p. 69</ref>, [[Salvation Domain]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref>, [[Sun Domain]]<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref><ref name="Ravenloft Player's Handbook p. 69">RLPHB p. 69</ref>

	==History==		==History==

The Lesser Evil: /* Humble Beginnings */

2016-12-03T20:53:53Z

Humble Beginnings

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	For almost a decade and a half, Martyn raised Sasha as his own son and instructed him in the ways of the Morninglord's faith.<ref name="VotM p. 213-214">VotM p. 213-214</ref> Sasha too became one of the Morninglord's priests, and he aided his [[mentor]] into gathering a small number of [[convert]]s to the Morninglord's cult.<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">[[Gazetteer I]] p. 24</ref> However, in [[499 BC]], Martyn died of [[disease\|sickness]], refusing to allow himself [[healing]] as he thought it was Lathander's will. Sasha mourned the death,<ref name="VotM p. 213-214">VotM p. 213-214</ref> but continued his covert [[vigilante]] crusade against the vampires of Barovia Village he had started months earlier.		For almost a decade and a half, Martyn raised Sasha as his own son and instructed him in the ways of the Morninglord's faith.<ref name="VotM p. 213-214">VotM p. 213-214</ref> Sasha too became one of the Morninglord's priests, and he aided his [[mentor]] into gathering a small number of [[convert]]s to the Morninglord's cult.<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 24">[[Gazetteer I]] p. 24</ref> However, in [[499 BC]], Martyn died of [[disease\|sickness]], refusing to allow himself [[healing]] as he thought it was Lathander's will. Sasha mourned the death,<ref name="VotM p. 213-214">VotM p. 213-214</ref> but continued his covert [[vigilante]] crusade against the vampires of Barovia Village he had started months earlier.

	In [[500 BC]], [[Jander Sunstar]] contacted Sasha about the elimination of Strahd von Zarovich, outing the count as both vampire and the [[murderer]] of Sasha's family. Though he deduced Jandar's in both the [[massacre]] of Martyn's family and his own, Sasha was able to set aside his differences with Jander in order to unite against Strahd.<ref name="VotM p. 268-277">VotM p. 268-277, p. 268 has 500 BC as the last journal entry he reads before hatching his plan.</ref> Subsequently, Jander, Sasha, and their friend [[~~Liesl~~]] journeyed into [[Castle Ravenloft]], retrieved the [[Holy Symbol of Ravenkind]] and attempted to destroy Strahd and his forces.<ref name="VotM p. 303-333">VotM p. 303-333</ref>		In [[500 BC]], [[Jander Sunstar]] contacted Sasha about the elimination of Strahd von Zarovich, outing the count as both vampire and the [[murderer]] of Sasha's family. Though he deduced Jandar's in both the [[massacre]] of Martyn's family and his own, Sasha was able to set aside his differences with Jander in order to unite against Strahd.<ref name="VotM p. 268-277">VotM p. 268-277, p. 268 has 500 BC as the last journal entry he reads before hatching his plan.</ref> Subsequently, Jander, Sasha, and their friend [[Leisl]] journeyed into [[Castle Ravenloft]], retrieved the [[Holy Symbol of Ravenkind]] and attempted to destroy Strahd and his forces.<ref name="VotM p. 303-333">VotM p. 303-333</ref>

	Though they survived an ambush by Strahd and the ensuing epic battle, the trio failed to destroy Strahd<ref name="VotM p. 303-333">VotM p. 303-333</ref>. They only drove him into retreat and hibernation. Moreover, their Pyrrhic victory came at a high cost. [[Katya]], a [[werewolf]] ally and lover of Strahd, heavily [[injured]] Liesl and in all likelihood [[infected]] with [[lycanthropy]]. Jander, realizing [[the Dark Powers]] were manipulating him into fighting with Strahd, opted for [[suicide]] by letting the [[sun]]'s rays consume him. Sasha and Leisl went into hiding<ref>VotM p. 333-341</ref>. {{Spec\|They may have left for [[Vallaki]], rebuilding the faith there}}		Though they survived an ambush by Strahd and the ensuing epic battle, the trio failed to destroy Strahd<ref name="VotM p. 303-333">VotM p. 303-333</ref>. They only drove him into retreat and hibernation. Moreover, their Pyrrhic victory came at a high cost. [[Katya]], a [[werewolf]] ally and lover of Strahd, heavily [[injured]] Liesl and in all likelihood [[infected]] with [[lycanthropy]]. Jander, realizing [[the Dark Powers]] were manipulating him into fighting with Strahd, opted for [[suicide]] by letting the [[sun]]'s rays consume him. Sasha and Leisl went into hiding<ref>VotM p. 333-341</ref>. {{Spec\|They may have left for [[Vallaki]], rebuilding the faith there}}

The Lesser Evil: /* Overview */

2016-12-03T20:51:27Z

Overview

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	As the Barovians know him, the Morninglord is a [[deity]] of everlasting hope and optimism, even in the most severe of conditions. His faith has few strictures for the faithful, save keeping hope alive and bearing good will to each other.<ref name="Ravenloft Player's Handbook p. 68">[[Ravenloft Player's Handbook]] p. 68</ref> The Morninglord's doctrine is one of [[liberation]], calling his [[clergy]] and other faithful to uproot the [[oppressor]]s and uplift the [[oppressed]], bringing hope through action.Undead are seen as a common enemy to the Morninglord and are to to be destroyed when encountered		As the Barovians know him, the Morninglord is a [[deity]] of everlasting hope and optimism, even in the most severe of conditions. His faith has few strictures for the faithful, save keeping hope alive and bearing good will to each other.<ref name="Ravenloft Player's Handbook p. 68">[[Ravenloft Player's Handbook]] p. 68</ref> The Morninglord's doctrine is one of [[liberation]], calling his [[clergy]] and other faithful to uproot the [[oppressor]]s and uplift the [[oppressed]], bringing hope through action.Undead are seen as a common enemy to the Morninglord and are to to be destroyed when encountered

	The Cult's religious authority is decentralized into largely independent [[temple]]s. Doctrine leaves the [[justice]] that comes to all [[~~evil doer~~]]s not to [[law]]s made by [[human]]ity, but rather to the actions of his [[worshiper]]s or through [[fate]] catching up with the [[transgressor]]s. Still, the Cult does have its traditions. [[Martyr]]s for the [[faith]] may become [[saint]]ed as [[chanticleer]]s, and [[Nevermore Night]] is a commonly observed religious [[holiday]].<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref>		The Cult's religious authority is decentralized into largely independent [[temple]]s. Doctrine leaves the [[justice]] that comes to all [[:Category:Evildoer\|evildoers]]s not to [[law]]s made by [[human]]ity, but rather to the actions of his [[worshiper]]s or through [[fate]] catching up with the [[transgressor]]s. Still, the Cult does have its traditions. [[Martyr]]s for the [[faith]] may become [[saint]]ed as [[chanticleer]]s, and [[Nevermore Night]] is a commonly observed religious [[holiday]].<ref name="Gazetteer I p. 25">Gaz I p. 25</ref>