Heavensturn is an annual event on Final Fantasy XIV themed after New Year's Day and focused on the eastern traditions of the festivity, counterpart of the New Year event from Final Fantasy XI. The players can to obtain different rewards based on the festivity's theme, with each year featuring a different creature as the protagonist.
Just like the other annual events, the three city-states of Eorzea and the residential districts (Shirogane included) are decorated for the event.
Profile[]
Even the most aether-addled among our readers could not fail to note the approach of another Heavensturn, and this changing of the guard promises to be an extra-auspicious one for Gridania. Our sources on the inside indicate that none other than Nophica, the Matron, is favored to become the god ascendant this year, and I am sure I speak for all dwellers of the Twelveswood when I say, "About time!"
Loyal readers know that this reporter is an absolute martyr to the travel-bug, and has been known to be mistaken for an outlander right here in Eorzea on account of his irrepressible worldliness. So it would surprise you not at all if I told you that our outré friends in the Far East have a custom of naming a totem beast every Heavensturn. Imagine that! This year they have chosen the "horse," a creature so exotic that even I, Oliver Goodfellow, have never encountered its like. Wild rumors may fly of the horse's herbivorous diet and four-leggedness, but fortunately for us, the calm voice of science at the Naturalistic Society tells us that horses are "dyspeptic of disposition and narrow of face, with a shag along its long neck and a repulsive lack of substantial coat elsewhere...as vicious as they are stupid." Huzzah, what a prize!
Now, gentle readers, I know the burning question in all our hearts: what were they thinking? But take it from me, Oliver Goodfellow, that when it comes to outlanders, logic and reasons are not worth seeking, for they do not think as we do! Surely, The Raven is not alone in noting the highly amusing helms sported by these charming barbarians as they take to the streets in a bid to popularize their unspeakable animal. Madcap, indeed!
The Fraternal Order of Chocowackers is said to be none too happy about these goings-on, and unconfirmed reports suggest they have exercised their gods-given right to bar the demon-steed from the Twelveswood. Energetic or excessive? This reporter cannot help but hope that all involved will comport themselves in accordance with the spirit of Heavensturn, and the Twelve bless us, every one!- Oliver GoodfellowEvent's official description.[1]
Edition and rewards[]
2011[]
It's officially time for the first annual Heavensturn event! And what better way to celebrate the Year of the Rabbit than with rabbit flavored helmets? In honor of the celebration, festive bells will be your available for your ringing pleasure.
- Time: 31 December, 2010 - 17 January, 2011
- Rewards:
- Gear: Usagi Kabuto
- Item: Fish Stock
2012[]
You have been informed that Father Drost, the giant of snow meant to usher in the winter, has mysteriously vanished overnight. To compound matters, an Ala Mhigan relic called the Heart of Winter has also gone missing. Waldomar beseeches your aid in recovering the priceless gemstone, and suggests that you search for clues within Hyrstmill.
- Time: 31 December, 2011 - 16 January, 2012
- Rewards:
- Gear: Dragon Kabuto, Crimson Dragon Kabuto, Golden Dragon Kabuto, Black Dragon Kabuto
- Achievements: "Beast from the East", "Black Beast from the East", "Red Beast from the East", "Gold Beast from the East", "Get All the Things!"
- Title: The Winter Wyrm (M/F)
2014[]
The Uma Bugyo Cometh!
Heavensturn is here, and once again the Twelve gather to choose the ascendant among them for the coming year. On this the highest of high feast days, outlanders from the Far East descend on Eorzea with a curious mission. Let a little bird—size is relative—tell you all about it! Pick up a copy of The Raven, Gridania’s leading tabloid, today.
- Time: 31 December, 2013 - 14 January, 2014
- Rewards:
- Gear: Uma Kabuto, Crimson Uma Kabuto, Golden Uma Kabuto, Black Uma Kabuto, Silver Snake Kabuto, Dragon Kabuto, Crimson Dragon Kabuto, Golden Dragon Kabuto, Black Dragon Kabuto, Usagi Kabuto, Silver Usagi Kabuto, Black Usagi Kabuto
- Items: Zoni
- Achievement: "Horsing About"
- Official 2014 website
2015[]
Rise of the Fleece from the East
Heavensturn is upon us at last, and once more the Twelve gather to determine who among them shall take the celestial vanguard in the coming year. As the deities of Eorzea convene to discuss matters of the divine, Far Eastern emissaries have arrived in their lands, heralding the advent of a different figurehead. Though they come bearing a martial message, it is only their curious ovine headwear and animal companion that have succeeded in garnering the townsfolk’s attentions thus far. Join their cause, and you too may lay claim to their festive trappings.
- Time: 31 December, 2014 - 14 January, 2015
- Rewards:
- Gear: Hitsuji Kabuto, Black Hitsuji Kabuto, Crimson Hitsuji Kabuto, White Hitsuji Kabuto
- Minion: Tender Lamb
- Furnishing: Kadomatsu, Sheep Dolls, Hard Rice Cakes
- Achievement: "On the Lamb"
- Official 2015 website
2016[]
No Time to Monkey Around. The Saru Bugyo Is Here!
Heavensturn is upon us once more, and the Twelve convene to decide who among them will act as the heavenly representative of the coming year. On this festive occasion, a delegation from the Far East has come to share the luck of the monkey to Eorzea. The citizens of the realm, however, are less than receptive to the antics of the furry primates. Join the delegation on a quest to win the hearts of Eorzeans by satisfying their most primitive need: hunger.
- Time: 31 December, 2015 - 14 January, 2016
- Rewards:
- Gear: See No Helm, Speak No Helm, Hear No Helm
- Furnishing: Paissa Doll, Oriental Orange Basket
- Achievement: "Gluten Free"
- Official 2016 website
2017[]
Eorzea Welcomes Birds of a Peculiar Feather. Make Way for the Tori Bugyo!
A delegation from the Far East has come to Eorzea to celebrate the advent of the year of the rooster, but it appears their leader is having trouble garnering the local citizens' interest. Spurned─for reasons unbeknownst to him─by each and every person he attempts to approach, the tori bugyo is desperately trying to rectify a Heavensturn festival that may already be beyond salvation.
- Time: 31 December, 2016 - 16 January, 2017
- Rewards:
- Gear: Red Tori Kabuto, Black Tori Kabuto
- Furnishing: Happy New Chocobo
- Orchestrion Rolls: Heavensturn
- Achievement: "Dying for Paissa"
- Official 2017 website
2018[]
A Clash of Canines Who Will Be the Top Dog on the Decks?
After another prosperous and eventful year, Heavensturn is upon us at last. In Far Eastern tradition, an animal is selected to lead the proceedings, and this time it is the turn of the loyal and courageous dog. Its representative, the inu bugyo, aims to share the customs of the east with Eorzea, while the pirates known as the Rabid Wives have other ideas. A host of unique rewards is on offer, so be sure to join in the celebration!
- Time: 31 December, 2017 - 15 January, 2018
- Rewards:
- Gear: White Inu Kabuto, Black Inu Kabuto
- Furnishing: Stuffed Dog
- Achievement: "Sitting with the Dog"
- Official 2018 website
2019[]
Feeling boared this winter? Fear not, for the Inoshishi Bugyo cometh!
Heavensturn is off to a fantastic start─or at least, it should be. The people of Limsa Lominsa seem all but oblivious to this year's festivities, and the Inoshishi Bugyo is at a loss as to why. Any who would help him spread word of the celebration─and his delicious rice cakes─are encouraged to seek him out.
- Time: 31 December, 2018 - 15 January, 2019
- Rewards:
- Gear: Inoshishi Kabuto, Crimson Inoshishi Kabuto
- Furnishing: Boar's Head Kadomatsu
- Achievement: "Cats and Hogs"
- Official 2019 website
2020[]
A Tale of Mice and Mochi
The time has come for the Twelve to convene once again and decide who amongst them shall ascend to oversee the coming year. As these benevolent dieties deliberate on the divine, Far Eastern delegates have arrived in Eorzea to share their festive customs. Alas, the good people are less than keen to welcome the coming of their chosen figurehead─the rat. If you would help rid the realm of its misperceptions, seek out the nezumi bugyo, and return hope to this year’s Heavensturn!
- Time: 31 December, 2019 - 14 January, 2020
- Rewards:
- Gear: Crimson Nezumi Kabuto, Cobalt Nezumi Kabuto
- Furnishing: Heavensturn Bounty
- Item: Magicked Prism (Advent Cakes)
- Achievement: "Mo Mochi! Mo Mochi! Mo Mochi!"
- Official 2020 website
2021[]
Celebrating an Oxtraordinary New Year!
A new year fast approaches, and once more the Twelve convene to decide who amongst them will oversee the coming year. Such divine matters mean little in the Far East, however, and a delegate from those distant lands has come to Eorzea in the hopes of sharing their celebratory customs. Alas, their plans to mark the new year appear to have gone awry, and the Ushi Bugyo seeks assistance to steer their celebration back onto its proper course.
- Time: 31 December, 2020 - 18 January, 2021
- Quests:
- Rewards:
- Gear: Crimson Ushi Kabuto, Black Ushi Kabuto
- Furnishing: Handmade Akabeko
- Achievement: "Happy Moo Year"
- Official 2021 website
2022[]
Eye of the Tiger, Thrill of Adventure
The Heavensturn festival is upon us once again, and delegates from the Far East have arrived to spread word of their customary celebration. To this end, the tora bugyo would enlist your aid in spreading word across Eorzea to ensure the success of the festivities. Join the celebration and earn fun new rewards!
- Time: 5 January, 2022 - 19 January, 2022
- Quests:
- Tangle with a Tora
- Let Them Eat Cake
- Rewards:
- Gear: Gold-lacquered Tiger Helmet, Silver-lacquered Tiger Helmet
- Furnishing: The White Tiger
- Achievement: "Feline Fun"
- Official 2022 website
2023[]
Lots and Lots of Sacred Lots
All the realm is abrim with excitement in anticipation of the new year, and indeed, the sounds of merriment can be heard nowhere more strongly than in the streets of Limsa Lominsa, where delegates from the Far East have arrived in hopes of sharing their festive traditions. The usagi bugyo would have your aid in ensuring the celebration of Heavensturn is a success, and has prepared a handsome reward should you be willing to offer it.
- Time: 31 December, 2022 - 16 January, 2023
- Rewards:
- Gear: Heavensturn Domaru, Heavensturn Kote, Heavensturn Haidate, Heavensturn Sune-ate
- Furnishing: Heavensturn Crane Banner
- Achievement: Hoppy New Year!
- Official 2023 website
2024[]
Tip the Scales in Your Favor
The sun shall soon rise on a new year, and the visiting Far Eastern delegation is most eager to share their Heavensturn traditions with the realm once more. To that end, the ryu metsuke and ryu bugyo have arrived in Limsa Lominsa with a charmingly costumed chocobo chick to celebrate their draconic guardian...yet the Aftcastle remains notably quiet, and the delegates may require the aid of a capable adventurer to liven up the festivities.
- Time: 31 December, 2023 - 15 January, 2024
- Rewards:
- Minion: Ryunosuke
- Achievement: Next Time, on Dragon 'Bo
- Official 2024 website
Passages[]
Since the announcement of the A Realm Reborn relaunch, each New Year's Day has shown poem passages at the Developer's Blog in the Lodestone website.
Each one tells something related to a relevant event to be introduced during the present year to the game's Main Scenario.
- 2011
Ne'er till land consumes sun can sea bear moons,
Heavens spew crimson flame, hells seep black dooms.
Stray seeds quicken in ash's grey embrace,
Valiant blades forged under the Twelve's good grace.Seventh Verse of the Divine Chronicles
Mezaya Thousand Eyes
- 2012
Seven waning Moons see seven suns rise.
Divine order roils, fallen corpses writhe.
Souls from aether far, strangers from strange lands,
Yester with thine eyes, morrow by thine hands.Remainder of Seventh Verse of the Divine Chronicles
Mezaya Thousand Eyes
- 2013
Dawn may banish even the darkest night,
Yet ever shall primal desires burn.
Two swords shall vie to lay them low—
A blade born of light, and a blade forged of might.
Alas, man may entrust his fate unto but one.From the journal of Louisoix Leveilleur
- 2014
Lances of light herald the dawn,
Beckoning shadows deeper still.
Splendor dances with shades
Unsheathed, a rime kissed blade
Spills crimson o'er fields of white.From the journal of Louisoix Leveilleur
- 2015
To naught but the Ivory Spear shall ebon mail yield,
Yet Her point remains ever trained upon scales of black.
Peer deep into the dust which swirls in our wakes
And know the bloody dance of light and dark to be everlasting.From the journal of Louisoix Leveilleur
- 2016
And so, in these waning hours,
my thoughts turn to a passage from the Gerun Oracles:
"In the beginning, before myth and legend,
before Light and Dark, there was but the sea.
"In the beginning, before man and hist'ry,
Light and Dark were divided, the sea sundered in fourteen.
"To the seas She cast Her children, for fear of the Moon.
"For hate of the Star, to the seas He cast His doom."
May we ever walk in the light of the crystal.From the final page of the journal of Louisoix Leveilleur
- 2017
Look ye where the sun doth rise,
See crimson embers, dark'ning skies,
Look ye where the sun doth fall,
See azure lost amidst the squall.Ancient Eastern proverb, author unknown
- 2018
As destiny is the whim of gods,
So history is the whim of men.
How the fallen rise and risen fall,
All shall be the subjects of my pen.From an anachronistic journal, author unknown
- 2019
Destinies ordained are not man's to change,
But history's chain may he yet disclaim.
As scion joins with stock of withered bark,
So we, defying doom, embrace the Dark.From an anachronistic journal, author unknown
- 2020
For what are Warriors of Light
But earnest souls of good intent
Resolved to do that which is right
Regardless of the consequence.Marginalia scribbled upon a history tome in the Cabinet of Curiousity
- 2021
Our progeny may never know
Wherefore we look unto the sky,
Nor why we dig for truths below;
We bear their scorn or watch them die.From the journal of a resolute man.
- 2022
So wavers the moon before the sun,
Its journey ended, home at last.
So look we now to days ahead,
Unfettered from our trying past.From the memoirs of a reconciled man
- 2023
With gladness for Their blessing,
Unto the Twelve we pray,
For ten more dawns as brilliant,
As this resplendent day.
Since first began our journey,
Like many years we count,
Each step that we have taken,
A challenge to surmount.
Yet still the faint horizon,
And lands where few have gone,
Renew our weary spirits,
Together we march on.From the journal of a well-traveled young man
- 2024
I awake at the break of Dawn, as I always do.
Turning to scan the western seas, I contemplate the journey ahead.
Will it seem a homecoming or a new journey?
Time will tell—though the salt winds whisper to me of things unknown...From the journal of an explorer
Citations[]