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 Lady Divine of the Night, emerged from the interplay of darkness and starlight at the dawn of creation. She embodies the mysteries, hidden truths, and silent strength found within the nocturnal realm. Revered across Bassaridia Vaeringheim, Noctis serves as a guide through the shadows, offering protection and illumination to those who seek wisdom and understanding amid life’s uncertainties.

Noctis in the Reformed Stripping Path

Within the Reformed Stripping Path, Noctis is celebrated as the divine guardian of the night and the unseen paths. She symbolizes resilience, introspection, and the pursuit of hidden truths. Her teachings encourage followers to embrace the unknown, navigate life’s challenges with agility, and find strength in silence and solitude.

Worshipers of Noctis often turn to her during moments of doubt or transition, seeking her guidance to uncover concealed knowledge and illuminate the path forward. She is particularly venerated by those who explore the esoteric and the arcane, as well as travelers who journey through darkness.

Noctis in the Bassaridian Zodiac

Noctis governs the Zodiac of Noctien, the tenth and final zodiac sign of the month of Thalassiel, associated with the Host Star Häpi, which appears at approximately 78°N latitude. Häpi symbolizes protection, swiftness, and agility in navigating challenges, reflecting Noctis’ role as a guide and protector.

The zodiac of Noctien inspires followers to embrace their inner resilience and adaptability, urging them to navigate life’s labyrinthine challenges with grace and determination. During this time, worshipers meditate on the balance between light and shadow, finding strength in Noctis’ silent guidance and the protective energy of Häpi.

Order of the Umbral Oracle

The Order of the Umbral Oracle, based in Lunalis Sancta, is a secretive and revered cult dedicated to Noctis. Composed of scholars, mystics, and seekers of hidden knowledge, the order delves into the mysteries of the night and the esoteric truths concealed within the shadows.

Members of the order engage in rigorous study, divination, and meditation, often guided by mandalas and texts that depict Noctis’ journeys through the underworld and her battles against the legions of Glinos. The order’s practices are steeped in the divine wisdom of Noctis, seeking to illuminate the path of enlightenment for themselves and others.

Mythology: The Hymn of Noctis

The Hymn of Noctis, penned by the famed playwright Eliyahu al-Bashir, recounts the tale of Kaelion, a mortal lost in the labyrinthine underworld. Overcome by fear and disorientation, Kaelion called upon Noctis for guidance.

Appearing as a veiled figure cloaked in shimmering starlight, Noctis offered Kaelion her Lantern of Shadows, a divine artifact that illuminates hidden paths. She guided him through the treacherous maze, helping him overcome symbolic trials that represented his innermost fears and doubts. Emerging stronger and wiser, Kaelion returned to the mortal realm, carrying the light of Noctis to inspire others.

The hymn celebrates Noctis as a silent guardian and guide, revealing the strength found in confronting one’s shadows and the wisdom that lies within.

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.

Shadowwalk

The Shadowwalk, held in the moonlit streets of Lunalis Sancta, is a sacred ritual where participants traverse the hidden alleys and shadowed pathways of the city. Guided by lanterns and whispers of the wind, worshipers meditate, reflect, and seek communion with Noctis. Along the way, they encounter symbolic challenges representing life’s trials, gaining insights into their fears and aspirations. The ritual culminates at a sacred shrine, where participants offer prayers and share their revelations.

Leilat al-Kamar (Night of the Moon)

On the 115th day of the year, the Leilat al-Kamar, or Night of the Moon, honors Noctis as the illuminator of hidden truths. The festival includes moonlit processions, nocturnal feasts, and performances of shadow plays that recount myths of Noctis. Worshipers gather at sacred sites adorned with Noctic-Rabrev plants, offering tributes and prayers for her guidance and protection.

Epithets

Noctis is celebrated through epithets that capture her enigmatic and protective nature. She is known as the Mistress of Shadows, representing her dominion over darkness. As the Bearer of Secrets, she embodies her role as the revealer of hidden truths. Noctis is also called the Watcher, signifying her vigilance and guidance over the nocturnal realm.

Iconography and Depictions

Noctis is often depicted as a veiled figure cloaked in swirling shadows and shimmering starlight, riding the Steed of Night. She is frequently shown holding a lantern or torch, symbolizing her role as the illuminator of hidden truths and the guide through darkness.

Symbols associated with Noctis include the Crescent Moon, representing her dominion over the night sky, and the Thalassian Eagle, symbolizing wisdom and foresight. She is also tied to the Noctic-Rabrev plant, which derives energy from moonlight and is said to mark her presence wherever it grows in abundance.

Artistic depictions of Noctis capture her ethereal grace and mysterious aura, inviting worshipers to peer beyond the veil of darkness and uncover the secrets hidden within the depths of the night.