720 Nibaathanka

Nibaathanka, known as The Great Sleep, marked a pivotal climatic shift between 720 and 723 that significantly impacted life across the Free Lands. Predicted yet largely ignored, this prolonged climate crisis led to widespread crop failures and significant loss of life in regions ill-prepared for such drastic changes. During this time, reliance on solar power dwindled, prompting communities to seek alternatives. Cahokia successfully scaled up its water power due to resources from the Mizizibi River, while areas near Awe Puawi (Yellowstone), particularly the city of Nipaya Pihatata, thrived on geothermal energy.

For the first time, individuals from Dine were permitted entry into the Free Lands to provide much-needed aid, leading some locals to develop sympathies toward the Dine, though not all shared this sentiment. Others suspected ulterior motives aimed at laying the groundwork for an invasion. Everyday life in Cahokia remained mostly unchanged, though dwindling festival attendance diminished the community's spirit. When the climate improved, a resurgence of cultural unity culminated in an extravagant celebration known as the “biggest horniest artsiest Dancing Bear,” symbolizing the growing cohesion among the tribes of the Free Lands. However, poorer communities suffered heavy casualties, leading to increased migration southward, bringing with them a mysterious disease called Kayazan. While the Dine offered assistance, they did not open their borders, resulting in a struggle for power between the rising cities and Dine’s influence, further complicated by the ongoing efforts of established groups like the Ami Art Collective.