Hail, Sapience.

You have stood in historical locations of significance within Seleucar, listened to modern debates on morality where Nikolas and Severian once traded arguments, visited the historical Keep at Nicator's Crossing, and even learned of the Tsol'teth. Now, then, we further that dive into Seleucarian history with the Age of Succession.

[ AGE OF SUCCESSION ]

The second notable chapter of the Seleucarian Empire is underpinned primarily by conflict, engendered by the lure of power and the seed of insanity planted by Adchachel's impulsivity in the first Black Wave. Split by a clash of deSangre heirs, Seleucar was mired in battle as Prince Mycale and Princess Catarin struggled over possession of the Seleucarian throne.

As we follow Catarin's perseverance through numerous trials, rallying the cities to support her against the dark power of Castomira Brangwin, we are thus introduced to numerous heroes and legends. Lucaine Pyramides, Damen Kephry, and Trenton Deis are the most famous, but the stories of Lucius Errikale, Argan deSoral, Odysseus Rani, and more besides also deserve commemoration for shaping this fractious age.

= EVENTS =

Learn of the newborn Princess Catarin being presented to the court of King Valerias, a tale never previously told by the Chronicler Phylarchus.

Experience the legendary defence of King's Tomb through Lucaine Pyramides' eyes as he holds the line for Princess Catarin deSangre, allowing her time to seek out the Staff of Nicator and win the right to rule. Active participation will be encouraged.

See UPCOMING for further details.

= EXHIBITS =

The HIMS Iridescent Moon, a long-lost flagship that once bore the Shallamese General Argan deSoral and his Lancers on a nighttime navigation of Ralshev's Bay to assault Castomira-controlled Seleucar, is restored to the surface world by Lord Neraeos. Its remnants now float south and west from the portal to the Asterian Restoration, and all are invited to visit. Look closely at what lies within.

The Path of Seleucar remains: a self-guided adventure that follows, as closely as possible, the original path that Nikolas and Severian took as they brought Seleucar into being. Retrace their steps from the first monolith at the centre of New Thera and look out for more that explain the significance of each location as you proceed.

= JOURNAL =

Your Festival participation will be tracked - by yourself - in a journal of your choosing. To qualify as completing this Age, you must cover at least ONE (1) of the following in your designated journal:

1. Attend any of the presentations or exhibits and write down your thoughts on what you saw, heard and learned. See UPCOMING for a list.

or

a) Explore: Visit the HIMS Iridescent Moon off the southern coast of the Asterian Peninsula, and detail how you think it finally met its end at the base of the ocean.

b) Engage: Succession is not limited to those of the monarchy. Review a history of your organisation's leaders - city, House or otherwise - and list a few you find particularly notable, as well as the deeds they achieved to earn your regard.

c) Educate: Review the second volume of the Seleucarian Empire, and compile your thoughts on the tale within. This should be found within any library, or the Ingram Cairo Memorial Library also possesses one.

You may complete more than one task if you wish. This journal, ultimately, records your journey and growth.

Note: These tasks can be completed at any time, so long as it is before the end of the Festival. You do not need to complete Age of Succession tasks only in this Age, as we understand schedules can be unaccommodating. Events, of course, are time-limited.

= MISCELLANEOUS =

1. The Grand Bazaar, the largest bazaar in modern history, continues upon the Asterian Peninsula with around 25 carts stocking wares and goods from all over Sapience. See Public news #22289, or the poster at the portal on Meropis.

2. View the artwork and curios on display at the gallery of the Anchors Acreage in the Shamtota Hills (coordinates 56264 on most maps), and decide if you want to bid on any during the upcoming Historical Art and Artefacts Auction.

3. We are still accepting applications for the Asterian Masquerade. Information in Public news #22220.

As always, ENTER the PORTAL in central New Thera for easy access to the Asterian Restoration. We look forward to your participation in our Festival.

Regards,

Jurixe S. Nithilar
representing the Asterian Restoration

Penned by my hand on the 6th of Mayan, in the year 977 AF.