Thrakmas
Thrakmas is an Official GemStone IV Document, and it is protected from editing.
Local Traditions & Customs: A Very Merry Thrakmas From Wehnimer's Landing
From the desk of Isienaka, Chief Scholar of Atan Irith
For years, word trickled to my desk from erithi abroad of an unknown custom called "Thrakmas." They were puzzled by this unusual word and custom, but, since they were traveling incognito, they were unable to ask questions or dig deeper into the term. Within the last twenty years, however, we have been able to be more forthright when not understanding local traditions and customs. Oddly enough, despite this, when asked, even those wishing others a "Merry Thrakmas" had no idea what Thrakmas really was or where it originated.
That it occurs during the winter months, specifically near the more universally traditional Solstice, Yule, and Feast of the Immortal celebrations, was obvious to all. Was it then, just another name for one of these? I took it upon myself to find out.
During my travels and research, I discovered that, while one may be wished a Merry Thrakmas almost anywhere in Elanith, it was typically limited to those bold adventuring sorts, many of whom call the frontier town of Wehnimer's Landing a strong influence in their growth as adventurers. Armed with that knowledge, I trekked to the Landing and interviewed several individuals, including shop owners, bartenders, and gatekeepers, and from this, and a deep dive into some of the town's archives, a history began to emerge.
Founded more than two hundred years ago, Wehnimer's Landing has always proudly stood as a frontier town, and its position as such draws adventurers like flames draw moths. When life got too unruly even for the Landing, a surly and experienced warrior, nicknamed the Raging Thrak, began to set newcomers straight by providing some pointed advice. A lot of this advice revolved around how to treat others right while trying to be a hero.
According to records, roughly a hundred years or so ago, a group of adventurers got too unruly near Solstice, and the Raging Thrak put them forcefully in their place. Other adventurers appreciated this and the advice given by this aging warrior so much that they started calling that day "Thrakmas" and using it as a way to codify the teachings into a celebration. Thrakmas has since evolved into almost a synonym for Solstice or Yule celebrations and involves merriment, gift-giving, and the reminder to be a good person. Some say its exact date is the 25th of Eorgaen, but the historical archives are silent on this -- it is somewhere between the 20th and 31st, and Thrakmas celebrations are held by adventurers throughout the Solstice season.
As of 5123, the concept of Thrakmas is still mostly centered around adventurers, except in Wehnimer's Landing. Given its Landing origins, it is no surprise that the locals and common folk embrace it just as much as the adventurers. Indeed, there is even still a Raging Thrak providing advice to newcomers (according to the mayor, there has always been a Raging Thrak and always will be). When asked about the concept of Thrakmas, however, he just hit me with a flat stare and suggested the turnip farm may be missing some turnips.
Whether you celebrate Feast of the Immortals, Yule, Solstice, or all three, according to adventurers and the denizens of Wehnimer's Landing, you can also always celebrate Thrakmas! Current traditions include exchanging gifts, bringing toys to the orphans, and wishing everyone a Merry Thrakmas, regardless of the puzzled looks it may bring elsewhere.
Indeed, I have even heard an occasional "Merry Thrakmas" in Atan Irith by erithi adventurers bringing the concept home. It's not taken root here, really, but the spirit of it -- joy and giving -- fits nicely with erithi and Inyexat values.
Local customs such as Thrakmas provide valuable insights into cultures, and I appreciate those who have assisted my research. If you are near Wehnimer's Landing, don't forget to go speak to the current Raging Thrak and see what advice he may have for you.
OOC Information/Notes
- Created by GM Xynwen, December 2023