Noctis

Noctis

Orbital characteristics
Mass (Kg)	1.40E+23
Radius (Km)	1,904
Solar Day (h)	9.34
Orbital Period (days)	8,001
Semi-Major Axis (Km)	1.08E+09
Periapsis (AU)	7.15
Apoapsis (AU)	7.38
Albedo	.16
Surface Temperature (K)	142
Surface Gravity (m/s^2)	2.58
Axial Tile (degrees)	23.2
Inclination (degrees)	12
Orbital Speed (Km/s)	10
Satellites	None

Noctis is the planet ninth closest to the star Atos.

North Polar Regions

The North Polar region of Noctis is a harsh and foreboding landscape dominated by perpetual darkness and frigid temperatures. The surface is covered in thick layers of frozen methane and ammonia, creating a bleak, icy wasteland. This area experiences frequent, intense storms that swirl around the polar cap, driven by the planet's complex atmospheric dynamics. The storms are characterized by powerful winds and occasional bursts of lightning that illuminate the dark skies. The North Pole also features vast crevasses and fissures, possibly formed by tectonic activity beneath the frozen surface. These geological features create a rugged and treacherous terrain, making exploration challenging but scientifically rewarding.

Equatorial Regions

Noctis's Equatorial region is marked by vast plains of dark, basaltic rock interspersed with highlands and deep valleys. The surface is a mix of rocky outcrops and frozen hydrocarbons, giving the landscape a dark brown and green hue. This region experiences the most significant temperature variations on the planet, with daytime temperatures slightly higher due to the sparse sunlight reaching this far from Atos. One of the most notable features is the "Obsidian Basin," a vast, dark depression believed to be the result of an ancient impact. The basin is surrounded by a network of deep canyons and ridges, creating a dramatic and rugged landscape. Adding to the region's intrigue is the "Silent Obelisk," a towering, perfectly smooth monolith that stands in stark contrast to the rugged terrain. The Obelisk appears to be made of an unknown material that does not match any natural formations on Noctis. This structure has sparked theories ranging from it being a remnant of an ancient alien civilization to a natural geological anomaly formed through processes not yet understood.

Southern Polar Regions

The South Polar region of Noctis is equally mysterious, featuring a landscape dominated by thick ice sheets and frozen plains. This area is slightly warmer than the North Pole, allowing for more dynamic atmospheric activity. The South Pole is home to the "Shadow Vortex," a large, persistent storm system with a spiral pattern of dark clouds. These clouds are composed of fine ice crystals and organic compounds, absorbing most of the sunlight and giving the vortex its characteristic dark appearance. The interaction between the vortex and the surrounding ice plains creates a constantly shifting and intriguing display of atmospheric phenomena. The South Polar region is a key area of interest for understanding the planet's meteorological and geological processes.

Mythology

Noctis is typically depicted riding on the back of the Steed of the Night. Tradition holds that every evening she rides across the sky, pulling behind her the Cloak of Night.

Noctis, the enigmatic Lady Divine of the Night, is believed to have emerged from the shadowy depths of the cosmos at the onset of creation. Born from the interplay of darkness and starlight, she embodies the mysteries and hidden truths that lurk within the depths of the night.

Epithets

Noctis is adorned with epithets that reflect her divine nature and influence. Among these titles are "Mistress of Shadows," symbolizing her dominion over the realm of darkness, and "Bearer of Secrets," representing her role as the messenger of hidden truths. She is also known as the Watcher, signifying her eternal vigilance over the nocturnal realm.

Worship and Festivals in Bassaridia Vaeringheim

A priestess of the Order of the Umbral Oracle studies a mandala which details the journey of Noctis into the Underworld, where she waged war against the legions of Glinos.

In the moonlit alleys and shadowed corners of Lunalis Sancta, worshipers of Noctis gather to pay homage to their divine patron through solemn rituals and contemplative festivals. The most famous of these rituals is the Shadowwalk. This mystical ritual takes place during the deepest hours of the night when the veil between the material world and the realm of shadows is thinnest. Members of the order embark on a nocturnal journey through the hidden pathways and shadowed alleys of Lunalis Sancta, guided only by the faint glow of lanterns and the whispering winds. As they traverse the darkened streets, they enter a state of deep meditation, attuning their senses to the subtle energies of the night. During the Shadowwalk, members seek to commune with the essence of Noctis and the mysteries of the night. They engage in contemplative practices, such as silent reflection, divination, and astral projection, opening themselves to the hidden truths and revelations that lie concealed within the shadows. As they navigate through the labyrinthine city, members of the order encounter symbolic challenges and obstacles that represent the trials and tribulations of the human experience. Through these encounters, they seek to gain insights into their own innermost fears, desires, and aspirations, guided by the divine wisdom of Noctis. At the culmination of the Shadowwalk, members gather at a sacred site dedicated to Noctis, where they offer prayers and invocations to their divine patron. They share their experiences and revelations with one another, weaving together the threads of their individual journeys into a tapestry of collective wisdom and enlightenment.

Order of the Umbral Oracle

At the heart of Noctis's worship lies the esteemed Order of the Umbral Oracle, a secretive cult dedicated to the pursuit of hidden truths and esoteric knowledge. Comprised of scholars, mystics, and seekers of enlightenment, the order seeks to unlock the mysteries of the night and reveal the hidden truths that lie concealed within the shadows. Members of the order engage in rigorous study, meditation, and divination, guided by Noctis' divine wisdom and the teachings of the Umbral Oracle.

Mythology

Ancient myths and legends depict Noctis as a figure of timeless wisdom and enigmatic grace, her origins intertwined with the fabric of the starlit night sky. She is often portrayed as a silent guardian, guiding mortals through the labyrinth of darkness and illuminating the path to enlightenment. Tales of Noctis' influence on mortal affairs abound, with her presence heralding moments of profound introspection and the revelation of hidden knowledge.

Iconography and Depictions

In art and iconography, Noctis is often depicted as a veiled figure cloaked in darkness, riding on the back of the Steed of Night], her form obscured by swirling shadows and shimmering starlight. She is frequently portrayed holding a lantern or torch aloft, symbolizing her role as the illuminator of hidden truths and as the guide through the darkness. Symbols associated with Noctis include the crescent moon, representing her dominion over the night sky, and the Thalassian Eagle, symbolizing wisdom and foresight. Noctis is also said to be present in any location where Noctic-Rabrev grows in abundance - Noctic Rabrev being a plant which derives its energy from moonlight rather than the direct light of Atos. Depictions of Noctis capture her enigmatic presence, inviting worshippers to peer beyond the veil of darkness and uncover the secrets that lie hidden within the depths of the night.