Four Planar Seasons (5e Environment)
Each year is divided into four seasons, each 90 days. Each seasons comprises 9 tendays.
In a typical year our world "moves" in a circle, perhaps metaphorically so. Each of the four corners of this circle are "closer" to one of the four elemental planes: earth, air, fire, and water. As the world drifts closer, the traits of that plane seep into our world.
Earth Season. The dwindling rains give rise to earth season, where freshly watered soil makes for the best growing season. The vegetation that burnt away or shriveled up is renewed. It's no wonder each year begins with earth season. With renewed resources and amicable weather, earth is traditionally seen as the most peaceful time of year. It's said cities are more preoccupied with agriculture than war.
Air Season. The harvest of the prior season is best finished before air, the dry season, when humidity drops and winds rise. The dryness is only broken by perilous hurricanes and tornadoes. With drying soil and relatively mild weather, this season is conventionally the time of athletics and sporting events, from gladiator battles and horse races, to strategy games and gambling. Sailing and surfing are particularly favorable due to the high winds.
Fire Season. Traditionally, fire season begins when the dry wind of air season finally gives way to the first bushfire of the year. The firenados likely to break out at this season's start are widely feared. The perils of more literal flame are often accompanied by most violent mephits and monsters crossing over from the plane of fire, leading to violence. According to some myths, the plane and fire and inferno are so interwoven that devils cross to our world during this time.
Water Season. Traditionally water season begins when the first heavy rain falls, putting out any lingering bush fires. Rather than refreshing rains, the downpours are perilous to many. Numerous flood myths tell of washing away entire cities, or even the entire world of all its sinners. In the colder regions, near the poles and atop mountains, snow and ice blanket the land. To many, this time symbolizes the year's death. More than a few traditional festivals celebrate this in different ways. Though this time is often scarce, some folks make religious sacrifices in order to prevent the cataclysmic flood myths from coming true. Others celebrate the afterlife, and honor ancestors who met their end.
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