Since the group isn't completely geographically together I would vote inside the dark hour unless there's forces trying to get their attention before-hand[Vote] Would you like the IC opening to be outside during the dark hour itself, or with you all gathered together in a meeting?
I'm okay with either one depending on how much motivation/actions you want getting to the point. Maybe asking for a prompt given the circumstance leading to your intended insert point?[Individual] Would you like to RP your character's initial awakening, or start out already knowing what's going on?
Always like an Igor type[Vote/Discuss] Would you like your group to just be the PCs organizing from the ground up, or would you like a sponsor?