Toffee

Deguise/the NGS is one of the few communities on the server with a genuine interest in honouring the history and building on what/who has come before. This is pretty rare to see on a server where the main goal appears to be ripping everything down, erasing people and their efforts, and installing something new in its place (which will then inevitably get destroyed by the next person who comes along, rinse and repeat ad infinitum). In your view, what can the rest of the LOTC community learn from the ethos of the NGS? What are your tips and tricks for making roleplay collaborative storytelling rather than a game that needs to be won? (Also, obligatory fave Erika/Manon moment teehee)

Cool air brushed Illynora’s skin. The cavern was alive with the faint sound of dripping water that melted into the whisper of aspen leaves. Silver trunks rose from the mossy earth, pillars of moonlight, and above them gaped an imperfect ring in the cavern’s roof through which the stars looked down, remote and unblinking. Amongst those farflung constellations was the Mariner, the seven stars that always led the Almenodrim across the seas towards home. Illynora sat with her back against one of the white trees, her fingers resting on the roots. She was not a druid, but she could practically feel life humming up through the pads of her fingers. The grove smelled of damp soil and lingering rain. How long has she sat there, watching the constellations wheel slowly overhead? Time always stretched thin around her, like the fragile skin of ice over a winter stream, the water rushing ever onwards even while seeming frozen. Five centuries she had lived. Nearly four hundred years since she set aside her crown, her nation sinking into the murmur of history like the great citadel being slowly claimed by the sea. The Dominion of Malin, Aegrothond, Amaethea, Nevaehlen, Amathine, Illivira, all rising and falling in the endless cycle of time, and yet, she had Nenar. Always Nenar. How many times had she healed Nenar’s mortal body, closing wounds, knitting together sundered flesh, coaxing a stuttering heart to beat again beneath her hands? Wyvern’s teeth, Vaeyl spears, frostbite, darkspawn, wolves, dread trees. How many times had she scolded Nenar for her carelessness, only to see that same reckless smile, bright and fierce? Cernunnos’ mark stood starkly red on one of Nenar’s hands, the Mother’s mark on the other, but Nenar had always been a warrior more than a healer. “Do not worry, my lady,” Nenar would say, eyes glittering. “You know that fate is not finished with me yet.” The wind shifted through the leaves, and for a heartbeat Illynora thought she heard Nenar’s tread among them. But it was only the grove breathing around her. Illynora’s fingers tightened around the tool in her hand, a long, thin, hollowed out bone, stained with ink. She had marked Siss’siru’s Grip around Nenar’s throat, the mark of redemption. Soon she was to mark her with Morea’s Teeth, the mark of a leader, however reluctant Nenar was to receive it. “You would have laughed at me, old friend,” Illynora murmured. “To see me sitting here, weeping for you.” No answer came. The leaves made a dry rustle. Nenar had been as constant as the tide and the stars, Illynora’s anchor in years that slipped past infinitely quickly and slowly all at once. The sea still roared, the sky yet turned, the breeze whispered with hidden voices, but Nenar was gone. The eternal had yielded. The unyielding had fallen. Illynora closed her eyes, pressing her brow against the aspen’s silver bark. It was cold but living beneath her skin. “Sleep, my friend,” she breathed. “Rest. Claim the death that was once stolen from you.” Above the grove, the stars burned on. Serinwë was up there, somewhere, looking down upon her. Was Nenar there with her?

Two letters arrived to the writer, one written by Erika Kortrevich and the other by Illynora Sylvaeri. More boardgames to add to the compendium!

Part II I HAVE PREVIOUSLY SPOKEN ON the divination of water, illuminating how one may read tidings from the Aspects in the bodies of water that surround us. So too can meaning be found in the stars, the wind, and the clouds, for all life is intertwined. Long have our kin turned their eyes skyward and found guidance. Cerridwen’s breath stirs the leaves and clouds, while Cernunnos’ spark kindles the fire that devours and renews. These teachings speak to the ancient art of sky‑reading, where the diviner communes with fire, smoke, wind, cloud, and star to glean the will of the Aspects. WE MUST CONTINUE TO LOOK TO THE CYCLES of day and night, for it is the sun and the moon that are the lodestones of nature. Midnight is the time for deep spiritual communication and seeking answers to life’s mysteries. It is at midnight that a diviner is able to achieve a trance-like state and see visions. Dawn and dusk are the transitional times of day representing the shifting between light and dark. It is this sense of transformation that makes both the beginning and end of the day very powerful moments for divination. It is best used for questions requiring influence from both Aspects, with more Cerridwen-leaning questions taking place at dawn and questions for Cernunnos taking place at dusk. Morning symbolises growth and forward momentum. It is best for exploring new ventures and setting future intentions. Midday represents peak energy, strength, and vitality, and is therefore the optimal time to seek clarity on complex issues and guidance on personal matters. The afternoon continues the energy of midday but with a gradual shift towards dusk. It is therefore suitable for guidance on ongoing matters. Dusk, in addition to being a transitional time of day, is associated with release and reflection. Questions to the Father can take place at dusk, but it is also the best time to seek closure. Nightfall invites stargazing, and is the still hour for communion and inward vision. ALTHOUGH FIRE IS THE FATHER’S ELEMENT, it is innately influenced by the play of the wind. Flame embodies transformation. To look to fire is to be consumed, and to be reborn. Therefore, to see auguries in the fire is to understand the cycles of death and rebirth. The size of the flame chosen should reflect the weight of one’s inquiry. A candle suits matters of daily life, a campfire answers questions of broader reach, a bonfire is reserved for rites and rituals, while only the most adept may glean omen and truth from the untamed heart of a wildfire. Igne’ihnsil, Sister Volcano ((by anvhunt)). Flickering For fire divination, the flickering of the flame is one of the most meaningful signs to interpret. I. Steady flame | Balance, peace, and clarity. One’s path remains true and unshaken. II. Rapid flicker | Excitement, agitation. Often denotes urgent messages, or that the practitioner’s emotions are strongly influencing the reading. III. Leaning or bowing flame | If the flame bends consistently in one direction, it suggests an external influence. Eastward inclines imply beginnings; westward, endings; northward, stability; southward, passion or conflict. IV. Uneven flicker | Suggests indecision or interference, two opposing forces tugging at the heart of the matter. Often appears when multiple outcomes are entwined. V. Low, weak flame | Signals obstacle or doubt. The question may lack clarity, or the practitioner must ground themselves before seeking further guidance. VI. Sputtering or popping flame | Represents spiritual resistance or confrontation. A popping flame is a warning that there is truth being resisted or an energy uninvited. VII. Flame that dims and rekindles | A cycle of loss and renewal. Hope after despair, or a situation destined to revive after appearing spent. VIII. Dancing spirals or sudden flares | Visions of divine attention. Cernunnos’ spark or Cerridwen’s breath manifests briefly, meaning practitioners would be wise to take note of accompanying sensations or whispers. Colour The colour of the flame reveals the nature of the energy being communicated, shaping how one interprets the omen. Each hue reflects a distinct emotional or spiritual resonance. I. Red | Action, vitality, courage, and struggle. When overly bright, a red flame warns of anger or reckless intent. When deep and steady, it speaks of perseverance and strength of will. II. Orange | Creativity, expression, transformation, invention, and ambition. An omen of new ventures and bold beginnings, though sometimes of pride or impatience. III. Yellow | Intellect, learning, and clarity. It glows when understanding dawns or when a question’s truth lies plain. A wavering yellow hue, however, cautions against doubt or deceit. IV. Blue | Blue flame marks the presence of Cerridwen even in Cernunnos’ domain. It therefore represents healing, calm power, and communication. V. Green | Growth, balance. When (rarely) seen, a green flame foretells renewal, healing, or prosperity. It is most favourable for readings of family, health, and the natural world. VI. White | Purity, cleansing, enlightenment, peace, protection. Sound I. Soft, gentle crackling | Balance and affirmation. II. Loud or frequent popping | Communication, revelation, abrupt changes, unexpected truths, or messages forcing their way through. III. Hissing or sizzling | Secrets rising to the surface, hidden meanings being revealed. IV. Sharp crack followed by silence | A shift has occurred. A cycle has closed, energy released, or a matter resolved. V. Low roaring or rushing sound | Passion, potency, intense emotion. Diviners should use caution, for power flows freely here and can overwhelm those who are not strong of spirit. VI. Smooth, even burn with little sound | Harmony, peace, and clarity. Sparks & Embers Sparks are sudden, fiery flashes that leap briefly from the flame, symbols of ignition and potential. They signify new beginnings, bursts of inspiration, or messages carried swiftly by the Aspects. I. Quick, bright sparks | A sign of immediate opportunity or revelation. II. Scattered, frequent sparks | Many paths or influences in play, requiring discernment. III. Strong, spitting sparks | Powerful omens or rare blessings, often marking decisive moments. Embers are the glowing, persistent remnants of a fire’s heart after the flame has waned. They embody endurance, hidden strength, and transformation. I. Warm, steady embers | Sustained vitality, quiet power, and ongoing spiritual energy. II. Fading embers | Waning influence or the close of a chapter, a time for reflection. III. Embers that pop or shift | Energy in flux, latent messages waiting to ignite anew. IV. Embers refusing to die | Communication or protection from the Aspects, or a message from beyond the mortal plane. THE WIND IS THE BREATH OF THE WORLD ITSELF, the song of Cerridwen carried through leaf, cloud, and smoke. The practice of wind divination relies not just on sight or sound alone, but through feeling the stirring of the wind against one’s skin. Smoke Smoke often bridges the seen and unseen, for it is the visible echo of a flame. Direction I. East | Birth, renewal, beginnings. II. South | Passion, conflict. III. West | Loss, memory, endings. IV. North | Truth, stillness. Movement I. Straight column | Harmony, clear intent, and divine acknowledgment. The path is unobstructed, and communication with the Aspects flows freely. II. Curling or spiraling | Transformation, complexity, layered truths, cycles repeating, or guidance from unseen allies. III. Smoking drifting downwards | A warning or shadowed omen. Descending smoke foretells challenges, resistance, or disruption. IV. Drifting toward the diviner | A favourable sign indicating that prayers or intentions are being received, or that blessings are approaching. V. Drifting away from the diviner | Release, protection, or cleansing. It often means obstacles or burdens are being dispersed, but it can also imply that clarity is retreating. VI. Scattered or erratic | Agitation, turmoil. Forces at play are disordered, and emotional bias or environmental chaos clouds the reading. VII. Smoke that splits or crosses paths | Duality and decision. This movement signals competing influences or a choice soon to be made. Density I. Thin or wispy smoke | Subtle energies and quiet influences at work. II. Moderate smoke | Balanced energy, neither gentle nor overpowering. Messages tend to be clear and direct, requiring the most simple interpretation. III. Thick or dense smoke | Powerful emotions, high tension, significant forces shaping outcomes. IV. Smoke that shifts from thick to light | Represents release, healing, or the easing of burden. V. Billowing clouds | Energy building or manifesting, showing a strong elemental impetus to act. Signals growth and growing resolve. VI. Sudden dispersal | Release, rejection, or fleeting truths which are glimpsed but not yet grasped. Leaves, Dust & Petals Direction I. East | Birth, renewal, beginnings. II. South | Passion, conflict. III. West | Loss, memory, endings. IV. North | Truth, stillness. Gust pattern I. Steady gusts | Consistency and steadfast guidance. II. Intermittent | Uncertainty, hesitation, or divided external influences. III. Spiraling or whirling winds | Transformation, change, the return of cycles. IV. Sudden, sharp gusts | An urgent sign, carrying messages of immediate importance. The Aspects may be rousing the diviner’s attention to act swiftly or to prepare for conflict, revelation, or unexpected change. V. Gentle, constant breeze | Peace, alignment, and quiet blessing. Communication flows freely between the mortal and spiritual realms. VI. Rustling without wind | A feather-light stirring of leaves or petals without discernible cause signals the presence of unseen spirits, ancestors, or thoughts responding to the diviner’s focus. VII. Chaotic or opposing gusts | Confusion, discord, or multiple forces at odds. VIII. Still air after movement | A sacred pause, signalling the completion of a mission or clarity being achieved. The winds withdraw after delivering counsel. It is customary to speak a prayer in these instances. Motion I. Rising upward | Symbol of inspiration and prayer reaching the divine. It is a good sign for guidance, visions, or spiritual awakening. II. Downward movement | A grounding force or omen of reflection. May counsel humility, rest, or the need to stabilise before advancing Clouds Type I. Thick, fluffy clouds | Peace, hope, and clarity. Reassurance that one is on the right path. II. Dark or heavy clouds | Challenge, unresolved emotions, or impending difficulties. III. Sunlight piercing through the clouds | Breakthroughs and moments of clarity or divine intervention. Obstacles are giving way to understanding. IV. Wispy or cirrus clouds | Inspiration, perspective, and spiritual insight. These clouds encourage creative thoughts and openness to subtle messages from the Aspects. V. Low, thick clouds | Emotional heaviness or stagnation. These clouds serve as a reminder to pause, reflect, and reconnect with one’s inner self. VI. Storm clouds | Intense change, catharsis, or purification. Colour I. White | Purity, clarity, and hope. II. Red or rose-tinted | Red clouds foretell strong feelings of love, anger, or courage. They can signal the birth of new ideas or warn of impending conflict, depending on the context. III. Grey | The shadows of doubt and hidden emotion. Grey clouds bring caution, inviting reflection and patience. They may precede challenge or illness but also the cleansing of old burdens before renewal. IV. Black | Endings, loss, or deep trials. V. Golden or yellow | Success and illumination. These clouds are omens of prosperity and joyful fulfillment. VI. Blue or indigo | Spiritual depth, mystery, and heightened intuition. Shape I. Bird | Freedom, ascent, guidance, divine messages. II. Butterfly | Change, transformation, grace. III. Bridge or arch | Connections, community, reconciliation. Suggest the bridging of gaps in relationships. IV. Bell | Celebration, awakening, or a warning to be cautious, depending on the context. V. Basket | Harvest, abundance, prosperity. VI. Face | Presence of the Aspects, spiritual protection. VII. Arrow | Direction, decision-making, or conflict between two paths. VIII. Waves or water shapes | Cleansing, the flow of energy. Movement I. Parting or dissolving | Clarity and relief. Confusion and difficulties are clearing, heralding an opportunity for a fresh start. II. Gathering or thickening | Precedes a period of challenge, emotional turbulence, or significant change. III. Rapid movement or swirling | Denotes swift shifts and turbulence. It can mean events are accelerating, or that the energies of the world are chaotic in this moment. IV. Low-hanging | Impending closure or introspection. V. Rising | Inspiration or divine aid. VI. Slow, steady movement | Stability, patience, and the ongoing process of natural cycles. It reflects that energy is aligned and that the future will unfold in harmony. VII. Clouds moving against the wind | Internal conflict, resistance, or obstacles in one’s path. It suggests that external or internal forces are at odds. VIII. Clear sky | A sky without cloud or turmoil is not emptiness, but completion. It marks a moment of balance, when all questions have found their answers or none need asking. Storms Few possess a spirit strong enough to stand within the fury of a thunderstorm and listen to the messages passed through the thunder and lightning. Those who wish to learn the art of reading the tempest must seek Medli Oranor, for only she holds this gift. She is Sister Typhoon, a child of wind and sea, speaker for the storm. Stars When the night sky is veiled in cloud, the stars that pierce through become windows to the heavens. The diviner must read which lights remain visible. If the night sky is clear, then the diviner must consider which constellations speak to them, which is another practice entirely and will not be addressed in detail here. Brightness I. Brilliant or luminous stars | Divine presence, powerful insight, and events already in motion. The bright light signifies immediacy and certainty. II. Moderate stars | Steady, balanced brightness suggests stability and wisdom. The message is solid yet not forceful, meaning the path ahead is knowable but requires mindful choice. III. Faint or distant stars | Pale or hard-to-see lights carry subtle omens. They call for patience, introspection, and trust in long-term cycles. IV. Flickering or variable brightness | Change, transformation, or energies unsettled. Such stars mark crossroads where decisions shape fate. Colour I. White | Purity, truth, and divine clarity. II. Blue | Calmness and inspiration. Blue stars are omens of healing, introspection, and trust in the unseen. III. Red | Passion and power. These stars foretell events charged with emotion, for good or ill. IV. Orange or gold | Success, creativity, fulfillment, joy. V. Green | Renewal growth, and healing of the self or the land. VI. Violet or indigo | Spiritual depth and insight, revealing truths beyond mortal knowing. VII. Silver or pale stars | Seeing through the moon’s veil and into the Aspects’ realm, revealing messages of completed cycles or upcoming protection. VIII. Black or dim stars | Omens of endings, mystery, or concealed knowledge. Constellations & falling stars I. Lonely star | A star standing alone, apart from the rest, signals the need for solitude. II. Tight cluster | Family, community, and unity of purpose. III. Loose constellation | A scattering of stars that are loosely aligned signifies freedom and diverging paths. IV. Falling star | Change wrought by choice, or a destiny swiftly approaching.

One can take a Mani as their patron, but worship should be reserved for the Aspects. Let prayer and offering only be for the Mother and the Father, and where one prays at the shrine of a Mani, this is in recognition of the fact that the Mani are the guardians of the Aspects domain. Illynora Sylvaeri, the Way of the Mother ALTHOUGH WORSHIP SHOULD BE reserved for the Aspects, there are some Mani who are within the Mother’s domain, or otherwise compatible with Cerridwen and her values. This writing seeks to outline the Pantheon of the Mother, and how reverence for certain Mani can enhance worship of Her. The pantheon is divided into four choruses, with the Mother at the pinnacle. THE CHORUS OF PATIENCE Llan’sae Llan’sae, the Princess of Sea Turtles, is an enigmatic and deeply contemplative Mani. She embodies the characteristics of patience and empathy, is deliberate in her decision-making, and possesses the qualities of extraordinary foresight. It is these traits which make her compatible with the Mother, who exudes patience and empathy. Llan’sae acts in pursuit of long-term objectives that are incomprehensible to mortalkind. Machana Machana is the Princess of Horses. She has a passive nature, often avoiding conflict, which is what makes her compatible with the pacifism found in the Way of the Mother. THE CHORUS OF BIRTH & RENEWAL Sha’maiden Sha’maidan, known as the Princess of Elephants and the Gentlest of Giants, is a powerful Mani. She invokes both admiration and dread because of her enormous size, and is known to lead and guide those displaced by war. She is the gentle guide, avoiding violence where possible, and is sympathetic to mortals, acting as both a mother and a teacher. She has been known to expel corruption, allowing nature to regrow, and offers the survivors of war a chance to start anew, just as the Mother is a harbinger of life and rebirth. Bolomormaa Bolomormaa, the Princess of Bears, is a Mani with strong ties to motherhood, making her easily compatible with the Way of the Mother. She is associated with the natural role of caring for and protecting children. She has a dual nature of peaceful strength and protective fury, making her a complex and revered figure among mothers of the Mali’ame. THE CHORUS OF DEEP WATERS Sabio Sabio, known as the Sage of the Western Winds and the High Seas Savant, has perhaps the most tenuous connection to Cerridwen, but a connection all the same. He is mostly connected with her due to his overlapping duties with Hamatsa, the Dolphin of Mercy, who is the patron of healers. Hamatsa and Sabio both protect sailors and ocean travellers. He focuses on areas untouched by druidic influence, which works well with the Way of the Mother which emphasises that you need not be a druid in order to spread the word of the Aspects. Hamatsa Hamatsa is the Dolphin Prince, a patron of sailors and healers. He has a benevolent nature. Because the Mother is the Aspect of life and healing, Hamatsa fits comfortably within her domain. Serenil Serenil, the Heron Mani, embodies the very essence of the river, preferring to observe the ebb and flow of life rather than directly intervene. She has a deep compassion for all living things, and often meditates on life’s cyclical nature. Her serene, tranquil nature is believed to echo that facet of the Mother. Cnidaria The Princess of Jellyfish is aloof, and rarely involves herself in the matters of the surface. She is a symbol of eternity and clarity, and was directly created from the wellspring of life by Cerridwen’s own hands. Like Serenil, she is a mere observer, and does not adhere to concepts such as good and evil. THE CHORUS OF LIGHT & LIFE Amametta Amametta, known as the Prince of Peafowl, is a unique figure amongst the Mani in the sense his inception was an accident. He was the youngest and least impressive of his siblings, but took it upon himself to impress Cerridwen. He danced tirelessly for her at the heart of a raging wildfire, and after he had been burnt alive, he was reborn from the ashes with the Mother’s blessing. In this way he is directly touched by Cerridwen and thus makes a good patron for her followers. He is a figure of love, passion, and penitence. Luna’illi Luna'illi, the Prince of Moths, is the Mani associated with forests and the full moon. He is docile and curious, wandering through the forests where moths reside. It is because of his ethereal nature and lunar cycle that links him with the Mother, as the moon is closely aligned with the tides, and where the Father embodies fire, the Mother has long been associated with water and the ocean. Kholibrii Kholibrii is a vibrant and graceful Mani associated with hummingbirds. Key attributes include being representative of hope, especially during dark and gloomy times. Kholibrii is generally peaceful and non-interactive with Descendants, and this peacefulness makes her compatible with Cerridwen and those who follow the Way of the Mother. She is the patron of hope, joy, and beauty. Nimrothel Both Cerridwen and Nimrothel, the Prince of Dragonflies, radiate a nurturing calm. The Mother through her steady, life-giving presence, and Nimrothel through his tranquil dance and soothing guidance. Nimrothel’s perpetual movement and celebration of lightness parallel the Mother’s association with the cycles of life and growth.

CREATING AND INTERPRETING USING HAESENI ASTROLOGY PUBLISHED BY ERIKA KORTREVICH 587 E.S. ⌯──────────────────────◃⟐▹──────────────────────⌯ A DECADE AGO, I published my astrological system, closely tied with Haeseni astronomy and Dulonian folklore. I now seek to clarify and provide a guide on how to create and interpret natal charts, so that the budding generation of young astrologers might learn how to read the heavens and determine how the sidereal influences the terrene. One should read this guide in tandem with the original work on Haeseni Astrology, to gain the greatest understanding. ⌯──────────────────────◃⟐▹──────────────────────⌯ I GATHERING ACCURATE To be read in line with III: Gathering Accurate Birth Information in Haeseni Astrology. ONE MUST NOTE DOWN their exact date of birth. Then, it is time to consult the ephemeris, as seen below. Draw a square around the data contained in the month of birth—that is where most of the relevant information lies. An ephemeris created by Erika Kortrevich. One may find their Sun sign by looking at the left-hand column. The person’s month of birth determines their Sun sign, also known more commonly as their zodiac sign. The Moon sign can be found by tracing a line from the date of birth at the top, to the row along the bottom. The symbols drawn under the moons show which zodiac is the Moon sign. The Ascendant, or Rising sign, can be found by tracing a line from the rows marked ‘ASC’ in the right-hand column, so that it intersects with the line drawn downwards from the date of birth. Note the position of the Sun and Moon in the below table, under the column marked ‘ZODIAC’. Celestial Body Zodiac House ☉ Sun ☽ Moon ⥔ Tova ⥾ Druka ↯ Ybis Do the same for each of the comets (Tova, Druka, Ybis). This can be done by tracing a line from where the comets are marked on the column on the right, to where the line intersects with the line drawn downwards from the date of birth. See below for an example. The ephemeris of a person born on the 18th of Msitza ag Dargund. Their Sun sign is the Hero, their Moon sign is the Queen, their Ascendant is the Queen, their Tova is in Comet, Druka is in Sea, and Ybis is in Wanderer. Once these have all been identified, they must be drawn onto the natal chart itself. Begin with the Ascendant, which is the zodiac sign rising on the eastern horizon at the moment of birth. Write the name of the Ascendant in the outermost ring, above the segment marked ‘I’. From there, move anti-clockwise around the chart, writing the zodiac constellations in order. Moon Queen Comet Wind Wanderer Hero Sea A blank natal chart. Write the Moon sign on the marked area on the left, and the Sun sign in the area on the right. Then, draw the celestial bodies on the natal chart using their astrological symbols. This should be done inside the middle ring. For ease of drawing the aspects later, an astrologer may choose to also place a small notch on the innermost circle, marking where a celestial body is. ☉ Sun ☽ Moon ⥔ Tova ⥾ Druka ↯ Ybis ⌯──────────────────────◃⟐▹──────────────────────⌯ II To be read in line with VI: Elements, VII: Modalities, and VIII: Analysing the Hemispheres in Haeseni Astrology. THE OVERALL PATTERN OF A NATAL CHART can give a general overview of focus areas and tendencies. This is what should be interpreted first. For hemispheres, consider how many symbols are below, above, left, and right of the lines seen in VIII: Analysing the Hemispheres in Haeseni Astrology. Consider what each of the hemispheres represents. A positive imbalance of celestial bodies in one hemisphere may suggest an enhanced focus in that area, while a negative imbalance may show neglect. Write down your observations. Zodiac Month Season Element Modality ◌ Nikul the Moon Wzuvar ag Byvca Winter Water Fixed ♕ Morrighein the Queen Jula ag Piov Spring Fire Cardinal ☄ Ybis the Comet Vzmey ag Hyff Spring Fire Fixed ⊰ Kostana the Wind Gronna ag Droba Summer Air Mutable ꐕ Haruthrow the Wanderer Tov ag Yermey Summer Earth Mutable ⥉ Odrin the Hero Msitza ag Dargund Autumn Air Cardinal ≈ Pisktro the Sea Joma ag Umund Winter Water Mutable For elements, look at which zodiac sign each of the celestial bodies are in. Consider which element is tied to that zodiac, using the table above. Note down the number of elements, using the four circles on the corners of the natal chart. Is there a balance amongst all four elements, or is there an abundance of one element? Is there a notable absence of a specific element? Interpret what this could mean, based on the characteristics of the elements found in VI: Elements in Haeseni Astrology. Do the same for modalities, referring to the table above. Note the number of modalities in the bottom right circle of the natal chart. Is there a leaning towards one modality, or an absence of a specific modality? Consider what this might mean, considering the characteristics of the modalities in VII: Modalities in Haeseni Astrology. ⌯◃⟐▹⌯ III To be read in line with V: The Haeseni Zodiac and IX: Angles in Haeseni Astrology. THE ASCENDANT, DESCENDANT, MIDHEAVEN, AND NADIR are collectively known as the four angles of an astrological chart. The Ascendant, as we know, is the zodiac sign located above the segment marked ‘I’. The Descendant is on the right-hand side of the chart, above the segment marked ‘IV’. The Midheaven is at the top of the chart, in the segment marked ‘VI’. Finally, the Nadir is at the bottom of the chart, in the segment marked ‘II’. Note down which zodiac sign is in each of these positions. Interpretation comes from examining the area that each of the angles represents, found in IX: Angles, compared with the characteristics of the zodiac sign, found in V: The Haeseni Zodiac. ⌯◃⟐▹⌯ IV To be read in line with X: Primal Triad in Haeseni Astrology. THE PRIMAL TRIAD or “Big Three” are the zodiac signs that form the centre of an individual’s personality. They are the Sun sign, the Moon sign, and the Ascendant. These signs have already been noted down earlier. Interpret them based on what each of the Triad represents, as seen in Haeseni Astrology. ⌯◃⟐▹⌯ V To be read in line with IV: Celestial Bodies, V: The Haeseni Zodiac, XI: Dignities, and XII: Houses in Haeseni Astrology. WHEN THE CELESTIAL BODIES OF the Sun, Moon, and the three comets Tova, Druka, and Ybis pass through the sky, they pass through the seven zodiac constellations and seven houses. By assessing the exact positions of the celestial bodies at the time of birth, we can gain insight into one’s personality. Remember that the celestial body represents what is being influenced, the zodiac sign is how that energy is expressed, and the house is where that energy is directed. Interpretations can be laid out with headings taking the form of ‘Celestial body in zodiac sign in the nth House.’ For example, Sun in Wanderer in the Seventh House. By this stage, the astrologer will have noted down which zodiac the celestial bodies are in. It is now time to take note of the houses. Celestial Body Zodiac House ☉ Sun ☽ Moon ⥔ Tova ⥾ Druka ↯ Ybis Note the number of the segment that each celestial symbol inhabits. Populate the table above with the number and the name of the house. I. House of Self II. House of Riches III. House of Kin IV. House of Bonds V. House of Body VI. House of Philosophy VII. House of Vocation Interpret the celestial positions, noting the characteristics of the celestial body (IV: Celestial Bodies), the zodiac that it is in (V: The Haeseni Zodiac), and the house that it inhabits (XII: Houses). Remember to refer back to the elements and modalities interpreted earlier. It is also relevant if the house is an angular, cadent or succedent house (XII: Houses). Mark these in the circle on the bottom left of the natal chart. Furthermore, an astrologer should consider if the celestial body is in a certain dignity (XI: Dignities). Sometimes, a celestial body is in a neutral dignity. Other times, it may be in its domicile, detriment, exaltation, or fall. This will alter the interpretation. Refer to the table below. Domicile Detriment Exaltation Fall ☉ Sun Wanderer Moon Wind Hero ☽ Moon Moon Wanderer Moon Wanderer ⥔ Tova Wind Hero Sea Comet ⥾ Druka Sea Comet Wanderer Moon ↯ Ybis Comet Sea Hero Wind ⌯◃⟐▹⌯ VI To be read in line with IV: Celestial Bodies and XIII: Aspects in Haeseni Astrology. ASPECTS ARE THE ANGLES between the celestial bodies that reveal how they interact with one another. They are discovered by drawing lines between the celestial bodies in the central circle of the natal chart. As each line is drawn, note which kind of aspect it is and populate the table below with the symbols for the aspects and the celestial bodies. ☌ Conjunction △ Trine □ Square ☍ Opposition ⚹ Soft aspect ☉ Sun ☽ Moon ⥔ Tova ⥾ Druka ↯ Ybis Celestial Body Aspect Celestial Body ☉ Sun ☉ Sun ☉ Sun ☉ Sun ☽ Moon ☽ Moon ☽ Moon ⥔ Tova ⥔ Tova ⥾ Druka From there, interpret what each of the aspects means, using the definitions in XIII: Aspects. How do the energies of the celestial bodies interact with one another, keeping in mind the area that each celestial body represents (IV: Celestial Bodies)? It is also relevant if there seems to be a large number of one type of aspect, or an absence of a type of aspect. For example, many oppositions and squares may show a person in conflict. A completed natal chart, for guidance. If you wish for a natal chart and basic summary to be created for you (for your own interpretation), you may send a bird to Erika Kortrevich noting your name and date of birth. ⌯──────────────────────◃⟐▹──────────────────────⌯ Her Ladyship, ERIKA KORTREVICH

Ily ❤️❤️ 1. A story that I would want to tell but won't because of many, many reasons is an arranged political marriage with a character from a vastly different culture than the one she's marrying into. I think that has the potential for some really cool dynamics and tension, but I don't think the server is set up to be able to do things like that organically. Something I CAN do which I've always wanted to do and is more feasible now that I'm more and more inactive, is have Illynora be a kind of "witch in the woods" who comes out to give prophecies and do divination for people whenever she's asked :) 2. Obviously the Charlotte/Josephine and Milena/Erika storylines have a very very special place in my heart, so it's difficult to pick just one memory! Something that stands out for me actually is the interactions between Ioanna and Adalfriede, particularly the one in the palace when Ioanna came to gift some wine. I liked the political aspects of those interactions, these two women going toe to toe with a lot said in the subtext rather than the actual words they were saying to one another. Ioanna would have made a great queen ;) 3. I'd say Adalfriede was inspired in part by Catherine the Great, Olga of Kiev, and Livia Drusilla, and she was probably my most intense and distinctive character. The others I think aren't so much inspired by real historical figures as they are general historical fiction/fantasy tropes!

without a doubt, the period leading up to and immediately after the Aster Revolution in Oren. I was working on a novelisation of it for a while before it tapered off and I lost interest after getting to about 180,000 words. Maybe one day I'll post snippets of where I got up to! It followed my character Josephine and her long lost sister Moliana @UnBaed as the two POV characters, tracking their entrance into Imperial society alongside their mother, the Imperial princess Charlotte Augusta, who at one stage was going to be the Holy Orenian Empress after her marriage to the heir, Prince Philip Aurelian. Then of course that all collapsed when Philip Amadeus and Anastasia rolled up in the Aster Revolution. I reckon it would make for great tv haha

1. these three items are genuinely at the top of my recommended "buy again" online groceries order (which makes me seem like an almond mom) 2. In Josephine's later life, when she was at her most ill and addicted to alchemical potions, I drew a lot of inspiration from the protagonist Tillie in Opium & Absinthe by Lydia Kang. Tillie becomes addicted to laudanum following an injury, so I tried to bring that through to Josephine's emotes 3. Aside from the braided river I already mentioned, I really, really like the Illivira build and how it transformed that beach to something truly magical. If I could build or terraform at all, I would probably do a lot of tidepools, wetlands, and underwater/beachside/cliffside caves with interesting and explorable features. I like having little nooks and crannies that are easy to miss and can be discovered even a few months into a map. 4. I would probably live in Balian in Aevos -- warm, sunny, get to wear pretty flowy clothes, lots of orchards and gardens around, proximity to the sea. My ideal life would be to live in the d'Arkent villa (Salia) and just chill out on the patios reading a book and going for an afternoon swim. Plus, that build is/was gorgeous 5. hmmmmmmm I'm just gonna answer for active characters + characters I spent a lot of time on Illynora -- some sort of seafood prepared over an open fire (preferably by her daughter Medli @RainbowRoad1234, I headcanon that Illynora can make excellent medicines but sucks at cooking) Josephine -- some sort of fruit like tangerine or pomegranate Adalfriede -- a cigarette and a stiff drink Elenwë -- pear wine from the famous Almenorean pear trees :) Erika -- anything her sister Primrose baked (rip primrose @LuxyLucy) Saoirse -- candied walnuts trendsetters, unc status 😎 very specifically this soup i feel like at this point I'm just giving people my supermarket wishlist

Adalfriede, obvi :* I've never played a character like her, and she was so distinctly Adalfriede I don't think I'll be able to play one like her again without being derivative. She was very very fun to play and write emotes for. Fave character arc would again have to go to Adalfriede, who went from a destitute, low noble character to princess/Lady Vandalore/Lawspeaker of Reinmar through deceit, manipulation, and iron will. Yet when she got to the pinnacle of all her goals, she went through a second arc of actually learning to love her family and becoming a less deceitful, more honourable person. One of my favourite interactions on her was teaching her daughters Frederica and Josefina how to murder people with knives :) @crazedpudding@alien_mc And also that one spar with Isolde @juliaINC AND that dramatic RP with Leon and Caius I... @BuilderBagel @MadOne For most memorable, I do have to give a special shoutout to @UnBaedand @MunaZaldrizotifor our RP on Moliana, Josephine, and Charlotte. Josephine was a minor side character in the context of the wider narrative, but every interaction with her mother and sister and all the drama and intrigue she got to experience from the sidelines of the Orenian court was genuinely so enjoyable. Playing Josephine is what got me back into roleplaying after a hiatus, and I still think back fondly on that RP. Also honourable mention to @kujo_and @NightOfTheWindfor Konstantin/Elimar and Qard respectively 1. This is putting the genie back in the bottle so could never happen, but I will give the boomer answer of rolling back the discordification of everything. Even back in 2018 when discord was a thing it wasn't used the way it is now. Back then it was still possible to get involved with RP without being in the discord, and I had some very memorable roleplay with characters who I saw repeatedly despite never having met them OOC. Something that comes to mind with this is my character Illynora in the clinic in the Dominion. She was able to be a healer there and eventually inherit it over almost entirely through RP. There wasn't a clinic discord or a clinician role in the Dominion discord. I think these days, it's not so much about the character you play, but who you know and your OOC reputation that gives you opportunities. 2. Ironically I just told this story IRP the other day, but I have a lot of regrets about my decisionmaking around the early days of Aegrothond (which later became Elvenesse). My character could have been a lot more sensitive in her interactions with Kairn @rigorouswhich I think would have prevented a lot of OOC strife... And in general I was young and took things too seriously/personally when in hindsight it really wasn't that deep. At the same time, the conflict really helped to shape Aegrothond into what it was, which in my mind is like the 'golden days' of my time on lotc. I met many people who are dear friends to me and even now I'm proud of the community we built back then 3. I would LOVE to make a CA for water nymphs or some sort of other water-based creature, with the hard redline of you can only ever be in water. No soulstones, no road travel, just swimming around in the ocean. It would have the perks of permanent water breathing, and I think it would add a lot of flavour in interactions with coastal/riverside cities. It's something I've seen people try to do, but it gets repeatedly rejected I've also love for there to be a braided river on a map at some point, because that's a very special to me! 4. I've had an idea floating around for a dark elf shaman for years now but never got around to making it, and I'm not sure I ever will I would say Illynora because she's a pacifist and wouldn't fight back, but I also absolutely know that Nenar @DragonofTaterswould be one step behind her ready to kill me so... Probably Erika, the weak nerdy scholar (not a self insert)

Who has been your fave character to play and why? If you could turn one of your characters' story arcs into a book, which character would you pick? What genre would the book be?

(This is me IRL) Try as much as possible to keep things to RP and not take things too personally, and assume that everyone else is doing the same. Give people some grace and assume the best of them until they prove you wrong, and at that point just disengage and find your people that you have fun with ... shrimp on de barbie m8 Ooo this is a tough one. I love writing posts that people engage with and can use in their roleplay (like the divination post!) but I think the ones I find the most rewarding are the historyposts written by my human, Erika Kortrevich. They're really challenging to pull together, but it's nice being able to pay homage to people's characters and for them to see their character having impact and meaning to the server narrative, even in a small way. I looooove this idea. Imo, any sort of Waldenian-specific religious rite should heavily revolve around the existing Waldenic prayerbook and have heavy influence from the Vander code. Most Waldenian cultures also tend to have a strong emphasis on honouring their ancestors (not just Reinmaren!) so maybe some sort of system where adherents follow in the footsteps of certain saints or religious figures, and by embodying their traits and virtues they will live a good life. Happy to brainstorm more in DMs! also... bless.

7 years, 10+ communities, ask me anything :)

I wrote this astrology system which might be of some interest! It’s entirely cultural so isn’t contradicted by this plug in (which is super cool and creative btw, awesome job). Might give some ideas that can be incorporated :)