Momiji

Momiji

Orbital characteristics
Mass (Kg)	9.07E+23
Radius (Km)	3,478
Solar Day (h)	3.16
Orbital Period (days)	7.84
Semi-Major Axis (Km)	1.61E+05 (relative to Indigo)
Periapsis (AU)	1.36E+05
Apoapsis (AU)	1.87E+05
Albedo	.13
Surface Temperature (K)	321
Surface Gravity (m/s^2)	5
Axial Tile (degrees)	4.24
Inclination (degrees)	2.55
Orbital Speed (Km/s)	26.3
Satellites	Ivory

The second closest body of Indigo's binary system, Momiji may also be capable of sustaining life. Some scientists believe, in fact, that life may be more likely on Momiji than on Indigo. This belief is justified by some, on the basis that Momiji is among the warmest bodies in the Atos System, and it is the only planet other than Micras to feature an extreme abundance of liquid water. Much of Momiji, in fact, is covered in a series of warm oceans. Momiji was first discovered by scientists from Universalis at the Celestial Isles Observatory. It was named using the Sangunese word for maple leaf, referring to the distinctive shape of the primary western continent.

The surface of the planet Momiji as mapped by IASS-00IM1.

Original map of Momiji

North Polar Regions

The North Polar region of Momiji is characterized by its dark, icy terrain. This region experiences extremely cold temperatures, resulting in a frozen landscape covered with thick ice and frost. The darkness here is almost perpetual due to the planet's axial tilt, which limits the amount of sunlight reaching the surface. The terrain is rugged, with deep ice crevasses and sharp cliffs formed by glacial activity. This region is inhospitable and largely devoid of significant atmospheric activity due to the persistent cold.

Equatorial Regions

The Equatorial region of Momiji presents a more temperate climate compared to its poles, featuring a variety of landscapes. This region experiences moderate temperatures and is the most illuminated part of the planet. The equator is characterized by a mixture of cloudy and clear skies, indicating possible weather patterns including rain. The terrain consists of a blend of frozen rocky plains, rolling hills, and occasional patches of green vegetation, suggesting the presence of liquid water. The equatorial zone is the most likely area to support life due to its favorable climate and access to sunlight and water.

Southern Polar Regions

The South Polar region of Momiji, like the North Polar region, is dominated by ice and cold temperatures. However, this region receives slightly more sunlight, leading to occasional melting and refreezing of the ice. The landscape is characterized by vast ice sheets, glacial movements, and sometimes liquid water lakes formed during warmer periods. The presence of more sunlight creates a unique environment where the interplay of ice and liquid water leads to interesting geological formations, such as ice caves and meltwater channels. The South Pole, though less hostile than the North Pole, still poses significant challenges for exploration.

Mythology

Momiji, almost always pictured alongside her twin sister, carries a thyrsus as a symbol of devotion to the supreme god of the Stripping Path and the Reformed Stripping Path.

Momiji, one of the Twin Lady Divines, embodies the essence of metamorphosis and change. Born from the primordial chrysalis of creation, her presence heralds the transformative power that shapes the universe's ever-evolving tapestry.

Epithets

Momiji is adorned with epithets that mirror her divine essence and the profound impact of her influence on the cosmic dance of change. She is hailed as the "Shiftress," signifying her ability to guide souls through the labyrinth of transformation. "Mistress of Renewal" underscores her role as the catalyst for rebirth and growth.

Worship and Festivals in Bassaridia Vaeringheim

In the sacred precincts of Symphonara, devotees flock to honor Momiji's divine presence through intricate ceremonies and revelatory festivals. The Ritual of Cosmic Convergence, a revered celebration held at the onset of each new era, pays homage to the transformative energies of Momiji. During this festival, members of the sect gather in a sacred space, often outdoors under the open sky. They create a ceremonial circle adorned with symbols representing the celestial bodies involved in the event. Participants engage in deep meditation and contemplation, aligning themselves with the cosmic energies at play. As the celestial event unfolds, the practitioners channel their collective intention towards harmonizing their inner energies with the celestial forces. Through chanting, rhythmic movement, and visualization, they seek to attune themselves to the cosmic symphony, embracing the unity of the universe. Amidst the ethereal glow of dawn, worshipers gather to offer prayers and offerings, seeking Momiji's guidance in navigating the enigmatic journey of change and renewal.

The Celestial Harmony Sect

A Transcendist Priestess in full regalia during the The Ritual of Cosmic Convergence.

The Celestial Harmony Sect stands as a bastion of reverence for Momiji, drawing seekers from distant realms who yearn to embrace the transformative power of change. Within the sacred halls of the sect, disciples immerse themselves in contemplative rituals and meditative practices, seeking to align their souls with the cosmic rhythm of metamorphosis. Members of the sect, known as Transcendists, dedicate themselves to embodying the principles of growth and renewal, embracing change as a sacred path to enlightenment.

Iconography and Depictions

In art and iconography, Momiji is -like her sister Indigo - depicted as a luminous pregnant woman enveloped in the swirling mists of transformation, her form a testament to the boundless potential of change. Symbols associated with Momiji include the sphinx moth, symbolizing the journey of the soul towards the light of enlightenment, and the meander or the spiral, representing the infinite cycles of growth and evolution. It is believed that the songs of the Morovian Armored Whale tell the story of Momiji's divine greatness. Depictions of Momiji capture her ethereal presence, inviting worshipers to embrace the transformative power of metamorphosis and find solace in the embrace of the Twin Lady Divine.