His Royal Highness King Ascario Lessandero Gustavius the 3rd, Lord and Chosen of Akbeth, High Marshal of the knightly legions of Nemea asks that the citizens of Nemea welcome the new diplomatic envoy from the Sha-Jin Empire. The two greatest powers in Ezantoh, the Kingdom of Nemea and the Sha-Jin Empire, have come together today for the first time in history. Planning to discuss trade trade routes, and hoping to ensure peace and prosperity for both nations, the King hopes that everything will go as planned. In order to honor his esteemed guests, the King has decided to celebrate the Sha-Jin holiday "Festival of Lanterns".
Most people in Nemea know very little about this far away Empire, and you are no exception. You know that it is one of the biggest Empires in all Ezanoth, and you know that it is as rich in material goods as it is in military might.... but that is about all you know, apart from a few old wives tales. This Festival of Lanterns, commonly known to the people in western Ezanoth as “Sha-Jin New Year”, is also a bit of a mystery to you. You have heard that, unlike the people of western Ezenoth, the Sha-Jin people celebrate the start of the new year in the spring, but that is where your knowledge stops.
You prepared for this festival nearly a month ago, but sadly, the Ambassador’s boat was delayed due to weather conditions at sea, and the holiday will be celebrated a few weeks after the New Year has already begun.
The King highly recommends that everyone look for a new Seasonal Appointment Dungeon, “Festival of Lanterns” appearing at the End of the dungeon list.
In order to honor the Ambassador’s love of all things artistic, the King has started two contests to showcase the artistic talents of the Nemean people for the Ambassador. Prizes exist for winners of both contests, and everybody is free to enter.
To Enter the Haiku Competition (poetry contest) or the Banner Competition (graphic design contest) please follow the instructions in the Off Topic Forums.