This is one of the traditional religions of the Northern Lands, most commonly performed by giants and tree goblins. Like most religions, it brings a community together, links you to your ancestors, and passes on hidden knowledge of the dangers of the world.
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| Kwakwaka'wakw winter dance |
Taking on a role in the Moonlit Play is believed to call upon that figure, whether invoking their powers or keeping them at bay. Playing the part of Mother Skunk, for example, is said to bring safety for children; howling and running as Lean Coyote keeps hunger at bay; speaking the verses of Jade-Maw curses those who spurn the outcast.
Some performers specialize in a single role, while others play many parts.
The play is put on at various times of year or whenever the people have the greatest need: before a hunting expedition, in the depths of winter, after the birth of a sickly child, etc.
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| Latvian Budēļi performers |
Away from the community, those trained in the ways of dressing up may perform their own small play when needed. It is best that the moon be full and the skies be clear. Proper regalia is required, whether brought from home or made out on the trail. No play is complete without an audience, but those observing must understand the meaning of the play.
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| Lion dance, Chinese New Year in San Francisco |
Shapeshifting powers are often ascribed to those who dress up, a sort of private performance in the role of an animal figure. (There is a 20% chance that these powers are real.)
| Moonlight Regalia (d10 twice) | |
| 1-3 | carved wooden Mask |
| 4-6 | Cloak of fur, feathers, sealskin |
| 7-8 | hide Drum, rattle, tassels and bells |
| 9 | wide-brimmed Hat, walking Staff |
| 10 | costume requiring Multiple performers |
Roll up your own regalia for the Moonlit Play:
| Moonlight Regalia | |
When talking about shapeshifting powers, what does 20% chance mean? In general, per dance, or for one-in-five people this power is real?
ReplyDeleteSorry, if it is not clear. I can clear up what I mean with examples.
This idea is quite interesting to read about.
20% chance that the shapeshifting power is real.
DeleteIf there are many types of magical and supernatural things, all of which are fairly unlikely to be real, it becomes prudent to assume each one might be real, even while knowing that it probably isn't.
So far it's been a great way to build a superstitious atmosphere.
If magic is always false, the world feels mundane. If it's always real, it doesn't feel magical anymore. But if it's occasionally real...
That actually seems like a great idea for more long-form campaigns of exploration, such as your setting, to keep theses interesting.
DeleteNot only that but it keeps players on their toes and interested in the world.