Midwinter's Day was a religious and civil holiday throughout the Empire of Videssos. Phos' sun was at its lowest in the sky on the winter's solstice and the day was the shortest of the year giving rise to the impression that Skotos would be the victor leading to eternal darkness. Early in the morning of Midwinter's Day, Videssians went to the temples to praise Phos and worship him thus casting their lot with him. Thus strengthened, the sun would return, higher in the sky and for longer days.