Tag: Fantasy Astronomy

The Phantom Moons of Zalonia

The Phantom Moons of Zalonia

Phantom moons sometimes appear in the sky. They often only appear above lands to signify something. For example, if a green moon appears, it often symbolizes sickness and disease. This could be various types of plagues. It might not refer to regular sickness, but to people losing their minds and going insane. In some places, people are forbidden to go outside if there is a green moon, so it doesn’t spread diseases. In other areas, they don’t understand what the green moon means, but they become afraid because it is something they have never seen before. An example of the green moon would be when there are too many volcanoes erupting in an area, and people get sick from the aftermath.

The silver moon appears before a famine in order to prepare those who will have to deal with the famine. Some places might do an early harvest just to prepare for a possible famine. There are times people can prevent a famine with this warning, but they have to take the warning seriously.

Green Moon – Disease

Green Phantom Moon of Zalonia

When the green moon appears over a certain place, it is a symbol that a plague is about to be released or has already been released. It warns that people should stay inside so the sickness doesn’t spread as easily.

Violet Moon — Good Omen

Violet Phantom Moon

The violet moon symbolizes blessing, destiny, and protection. It appears above heroes, rulers, or chosen individuals, especially during birth. If a mother sees a purple moon while her baby is being born she can be assured that her child will be great in some way. This moon only appears to the lower or middle class, but not the higher class because most people born into the higher class will remain there. It also means that crops will grow faster and morale rises. It symbolizes that the gods are watching.

Black Moon — Death Approaching

 

Black Phantom Moon

The black moon can be hard to see when it appears because it appears like a black hole would appear, but because it is nearer to the planet, it is seen as a circle that blocks out the stars that are behind it. It is seen before assassinations, wars, and disasters. If someone see it, it is law in most lands to point it out to the leaders of the place so they can prepare for what is coming. It doesn’t mean absolute death but more as a warning that something bad is going to happen. It can cause people to panic when they see it. It also sclipses all other moons as it is the closest to Aztharian.

Amber Moon of Zalonia

Amber Moon — Betrayal

The amber moon symbolizes treachery, deception, and hidden agendas. It is often seen near courts, councils, or negotiations. For example, if it appears when two kings are making an agreement, they will suspect that the other will break the treaty. I could mean that there will be an assassination attempt on the king. Kings who see these moons strengthen their security just in case. However, their security can’t always be trusted. To the average person, it means that they are around a person or people who are deceptive. This moon can cause people to become paranoid.

White Moon — Birth of Something New

White Moon of Zalonia

This moon appears when there will be birth, renewal, and beginnings. This is often seen after a place has become war-torn. It means that the war-torn area should be repaired instead of abandoned. Some magicians acknowledge this moon if they want to gain a new ability. It could mean a change in social status. People who see this moon generally don’t tell others about it because they could interfere with the outcome. It also appears before revolutions or new areas. It is often a moon that brings hope. It’s not seen very often, but when it is seen, the person seeing it generally gets excited.

Rose Moon — Magic Disturbance

Rose Moon of Zalonia

The rose moon (different from the usual red moon) usually appears when magic is out of balance. Perhaps a wizard used too much magic. This can cause ripples in the magical atmosphere of Zalonia and cause other magicians to misfire their own magic. There also could be someone or even multiple people who are tampering with forbidden magic that can cause spells to misfire. Most magicians who see the rose moon withhold from using magic because they don’t want something to go wrong. It also often precedes magical disasters or breakthroughs

Teal Moon — Love

Teal Moon of Zalonia

The teal moon is the moon of love. It is lighter than Cadrone and appears much closer to the planet. It will often show when two romantic partners are out and enjoying the night sky. It is a good omen for lovers who do see it. When it is not seen, the couple may come to question their relationship decisions. If they go out for a romantic evening but don’t see the teal moon, they will like break up before they get too attached. However, some people ignore the teal moon because they have become obsessed with the person they love.

Sign up for my Newsletter Here

Creating Life – By Ralph Ellefson

The Art of World Building Workbook – By Ralph Ellefson

Fantasy World Building: A Guide To Developing Mythic Worlds and Legendary Creatures – By Mark Nelson

Support Me on Patreon

Planets of Zalonia

Latrina (1st Planet)

It is similar in size to Aztharian, but is too hot for life as it is the closest planet to the sun. However, there might be heat-resistant beings on it, but no one is certain. Once in a while, the planet can cause a small eclipse, but not as thick as a lunar eclipse. The surface can reach 300 degrees F, but it rotates more slowly than Aztharian, and the side facing away from the sun can get down to about 50 degrees. Most of the planet is covered by an unknown light green liquid.

It represents both romantic and sensual love, creativity, artistry, and self-expression. It rules beauty and pleasure, arts and crafts, all of the sweet things of life. It is particularly associated with sexuality, but like the Maiden, her most essential quality is strength of self.

In negative terms, Latrina is associated with selfishness, greed, and indulgence. Negative Latrina thinks of herself first, and others second, if at all. Over-indulgence of all sorts, but especially sexual, is associated with Negative Latrina, as well as a conspicuous lack of concern over consequences.

Symbology – The hieroglyph for Latrina is the Sphere of the Conscious Self over the Cross of Matter; that is to say, the conscious self-expressing itself in the physical, with little reference to the Higher Self.

Aztharian – World (2nd Planet)

Aztharian is the world where Zalonia exists. Think of it as an alternate world that’s roughly the same size as Earth and follows similar rules of physics, especially gravity. However, the continents and landmasses are arranged differently. Most of the stories happen on the large landmass of Zalonia, but there are other big landmasses on Azatharian with lots of mysterious things, creatures, and more.

People have lived on Azatharian for a really long time. The folks in Zalonia can trace their roots back to close to the beginning of the First Age when they were created. But there are whispers about a Lost Age that might go even further back. On those other landmasses, there are beings that might have been around since that rumored Lost Age.

Now, some ancient stories, especially those from a few mede historians, talk about the Prophet of Old and their descendants in a place called Ruinoneo before it was cursed. Legends say that this Prophet might have been the one who made medes, humans, and the legendary stiminites. But remember, these are really old legends, and a lot of time has passed. There’s some evidence that hints at these ideas, but it’s all a bit of a mystery now.

There’s something unique about its night sky. Instead of regular stars, they have these magical constellations known as the “9 constellations.” These constellations are made up of objects with very little gravitational pull. They might look like stars or planets to the naked eye, but they’re different. They don’t twinkle like our stars; instead, they move across the sky like stars, which could be quite puzzling for someone from Earth who notices these differences.

It has 3 primary moons, which can cause various kinds of tides. There is only one star in the solar system similar to our sun.

Populations exist where food, water, warmth, and shelter

World Population
Humans – 13 million
Medes – 950,000
Elves before destruction – 3 million – There is one elven territory not found in Zalonia
Woodland Elves – 100,000 – They are only in Zalonia
Frolm – 500,000 before the shadow thieves and about 2,500 after – All in Zalonia
Rokars – 9 million
Sxiox – 2 million

Alien Satellite (3rd Planet) – Onog

Onog is a satellite that is near Aztharian. It is used as a base for technology and weapons to spy and try to influence things on Aztharian. There is a wormhole on the side that faces away from Aztharian that leads to the aliens’ (Gnonows) home planet. It is a very compact satellite, but small and further away than the blue moon. To the human eye, it looks like a faint planet. The medes can see it better, but they can’t see the aliens themselves. The aliens also use a force field that the medes can’t see through. This is the satellite they used when they fought in the Great Battle of the Fourth Age. Some believe this is the furthest planet away because of its small size, but it is relatively close to Aztharian.

Gas Giant (4rd Planet) – Anohpmi

This is a further out planet, a little bigger than Jupiter, that works as a shield to destructive materials such as comets and asteroids. Seen up close, it looks like a beautiful planet and has several moons. There are said to be over a hundred moons. It has various colors such as red, yellow, blue, brown, and so on. It is an impossible planet to survive on because of the gravity, but the moons could possibly hold life. It is the biggest object in the night sky besides the moons revolving around Aztharian. Its diameter is thirteen times as long as Aztharian. It takes about 8.6 years to orbit the sun. It is often associated with wisdom.

It is a symbol of wisdom according to the medes. When it is seen in the sky, the medes study a little harder because they believe they will gain knowledge more clearly when it is visible. It is a gas giant with hundreds of moons revolving around it.

There are several spots on Anohpmi which the medes believe are dangerous storms, but they are uncertain. The spots seem to move around on the planet and increase and decrease in size at a slow rate. Its magnetic atmosphere is so strong that it can crush virtually everything that comes through it.

Anohpmi has many moons, and it is possible that they have life, especially the moons with water on them. Between their strong eyesight and telescopes, the medes can’t see the moons well enough to see actual other beings on the moon, but there seem to be enormous structures that appear to have been built by intelligent life.

Gas Giant (5th Planet) – Itenasa

This is the furthest planet away from the sun. It is about half the size of Aztharian. The planet appears blueish green due to its methane gases. There is rumored to be life on this planet among the Zalonians, but that’s only been in legends. Not much is known about this planet, and even the Gnonows have never explored it or looked at it closely. It holds about 20 moons, some fully made out of ice. It is also believed to be a portal somewhere in Zalonia that can reach this planet, or at least near it. This planet also has rings like Saturn.

It is often associated with chaos and uncertainty among the Quintum. The Quintum will never point their ships toward Itenasa because they believe this will lead them to chaotic situations at sea, such as large storms and whirlpools.

Sign up for my Newsletter Here

Creating Life – By Ralph Ellefson

The Art of World Building Workbook – By Ralph Ellefson

Fantasy World Building: A Guide To Developing Mythic Worlds and Legendary Creatures – By Mark Nelson

Support Me on Patreon

Important Stars of Zalonia

  • There is no Northern star like we have.
  • They are used to navigate, especially by the quintum when they are at sea.
  • The closest star is 3 light-years away
  • When it comes to stars, they look similar to those in our world, except for the constellations, which are made of non-star material

Arcanis

Purpose: The Star of Magic

Description: Arcanis is a brilliant, deep violet star that pulses with magical energy. It serves as a focal point for all magical spells and rituals, especially those that require tapping into raw magical power. During certain times of the year, when Arcanis is at its zenith, magic users find their abilities greatly enhanced, and it’s a prime time for casting powerful spells or creating magical artifacts.

2. Solara

Purpose: The Star of Healing

Description: A warm, golden star that radiates a soothing light, Solara is revered as the source of all healing magic. It is believed that its rays can mend wounds, cure diseases, and restore vitality. Temples dedicated to healing often align their structures to catch the first light of Solara, and healers draw upon its energy in their practices.

3. Nocturnis

Purpose: The Star of Dreams

Description: Nocturnis is a dim, silver-blue star that only becomes visible during the darkest nights. It is closely associated with dreams, prophecy, and the subconscious. Those who meditate under its light are said to receive visions of the future or guidance from the dream realm. It’s also a star that influences sleep-related spells and rituals.

4. Aegis

Purpose: The Star of Protection

Description: Aegis shines with a steady, pale blue light and is known as the guardian star. It is invoked in protective spells and wards, believed to shield both individuals and entire settlements from harm. When Aegis is high in the sky, it is considered the best time to fortify defenses or to create amulets of protection.

5. Ignis

Purpose: The Star of War

Description: Ignis is a fiery red star that blazes with intensity. It is linked to the aspects of war, strength, and conflict. Warriors and military leaders often seek its favor before battles, believing that its light grants courage and power. During times of war, its presence in the sky is seen as an omen of victory or destruction.

6. Aquilon

Purpose: The Star of the Seas

Description: Aquilon is a bright turquoise star that seems to shimmer like the ocean. It is revered by sailors, fishermen, and anyone who makes their living from the sea. Aquilon is believed to control the tides and currents, and its light is thought to guide ships safely through treacherous waters. Ceremonies to bless voyages are often held when Aquilon is visible.The quintum are known to use this star’s power the most.

7. Umbra

Purpose: The Star of Shadows

Description: Umbra is a dark, almost black star that appears faintly in the sky, often mistaken for a shadow rather than a star. It governs the night, secrecy, and the unseen. Thieves, assassins, and those who operate in the shadows often pray to Umbra for stealth and success. It’s also a star associated with shadow magic and the concealment of truths.

8. Verdantis

Purpose: The Star of Life

Description: Verdantis is a vibrant green star that symbolizes growth, fertility, and the cycle of life. It is particularly important to farmers, druids, and those connected to nature. Verdantis is believed to enhance the growth of crops, the fertility of the land, and the health of living beings. Rituals for bountiful harvests and prosperous births are often conducted under Verdantis.

9. Luminara

Purpose: The Star of Knowledge

Description: Luminara is a radiant, white star that is a beacon of wisdom and enlightenment. Scholars, sages, and those seeking truth often look to Luminara for guidance. Its light is said to illuminate the path to knowledge, uncovering hidden truths and deep mysteries. Libraries and centers of learning are often aligned to this star, and it is said that reading or studying under its light enhances understanding and insight. This star is a favorite among the medes.

Sign up for my Newsletter Here

Creating Life – By Ralph Ellefson

The Art of World Building Workbook – By Ralph Ellefson

Fantasy World Building: A Guide To Developing Mythic Worlds and Legendary Creatures – By Mark Nelson

Support Me on Patreon

Constellations of Zalonia

Astrology was allegedly developed during the Lost Era originally on the 9 constellations and was rediscovered after the 400th year of the First Age. It was put together by various members of the Society of the Lost Realm. Then it was brought to Magdad to help magicians with their magic. There are certain historical events that seems to line up with the position of the stars and planets.

Constellations and months have the same name and are named after backwards Nyanja Words. They move slightly east from the night before. They are typically seen one month at a time. Remember, a month in Zalonia is 40 days. Astrology isn’t as commonly practiced in Zalonia, but the constellations represent the stages of life and follow the years. There are many other constellations, but they aren’t recognized to the same degree. The objects that make up the constellations are not stars, but were put there for the use of magic. They have weak gravity and large volume. They are closer than the stars and rotate in a similar fashion to the planets by going through the sky. They are magical orbs that are not in our universe.

Awdab

This is the first month of the year and the season when life starts to grow back). It is similar to March/April in the northern hemisphere of our world. The symbol of this is a tadpole and seen in the early evening. When this constellation is prominent, magic for new beginnings as at this height. Magic users who work for leaders will often suggest starting a war during this time. Village councils meet together to plan out the new year. Crops are often planted, and individuals begin projects that they want to work on. Medes often have their babies at this time after about 150 days of pregnancy.

Anawbu

This is the second month of the year, and it is when things tend to grow the fastest. This is similar to April/May in the northern hemisphere here. A willow tree symbolizes this. The armies that have started wars will bring in the most recruits during this time. Preparations for war also happen, and magic users will put heavy study into their magic. The snow has melted, and the water is starting to evaporate, making travel easier. Many merchants set up shop around this time for non-food items, mostly.

Uvmah

This is the third month, and growth is still happening, but has slowed a little. May/June for us. This is symbolized by a dandelion. War is likely to start during this time for those places that have tension toward one another. Merchant start selling more food that comes out early. Travel and trading see an increase. Magically, both offensive and defensive magic is strong due to the wars.

Atama

This is the fourth month and the vegetation reaches its full growth. This is symbolized by a growing cat that is full of energy. The constellation appears vaguely as cat whiskers. There is more food in the markets and the traveling remains steady. Magic can be used to help with crop growth, especially in places that are likely to suffer from famines.

Itaka

This is symbolized by a spider where there is a middle star and then it almost looks like eight lines coming off of it. This is usually the warmest month of the year and merchants in the south often have to take shelter and may be more likely to do outdoor selling at night. Magic that is related to heat like fire magic are the strongest at this time.

Amiw

This is shaped like a house because it is known that mature people often have their own houses. Crops are gathering and merchants are in full force as people prepare for the colder months ahead. The leaves start to change color and harvest festivals take place. This is the time for healing magic, as people who have been working may need to heal some of their body after working during the warmer months.

Uluk

This is shaped like a walking staff with some bends to it. Merchants start slowing down and many people have gathered for the colder months. War starts to settle down, especially in the northern areas. There is a lot of rain which slows down travel. Magic is least strong this month so many magicians do inner work so they can improve their magic.

Afmi

The void. There appears to be a hole in the sky with no stars and is shaped like a fluffy cloud. The snow and cold get strong this month and all the leaves fall off the trees. People are indoors now and merchants can only be found in the south. Those who haven’t properly prepared, may go south to gather items. The roads can be dangerous as the winter creatures start to roam the areas. Magic is used for heat and light.

Inastub (kumbutani) Reminisce

This is the time after death when a person reviews their life. This is symbolized by a mirror. There is a cluster of stars that appear to be oval shaped like most of the mirrors used in Zalonia. This is where it is coldest at the beginning of the month. Magicians and others do a lot of self-reflection during this time. They think of how they spent the year and how they could be more productive the next year.

Utawda

The cocoon symbolizes the transformation from death to life. At the beginning of this month, it is the time of the greatest suffering, as people are lacking food and it still isn’t easy to get out. However, there is renewed hope as the sun gets stronger and the snow melts. Plants are about to start to bud. Magic is used to cause the plants to grow better to increase the likelihood of a good harvest. Leaders start to meet together at the end of this month to plan out for the year.

 

Sign up for my Newsletter Here

Creating Life – By Ralph Ellefson

The Art of World Building Workbook – By Ralph Ellefson

Fantasy World Building: A Guide To Developing Mythic Worlds and Legendary Creatures – By Mark Nelson

Support Me on Patreon

 

Comets of Zalonia

 

Like Earth, there are comets that pass by the skies seen from Aztharian. Some people believe that certain kinds of magic can be used when a comet is visible in the sky. There are certain magic spells that are related to certain comets, especially the ones that pass by more regularly. Here are the known comets and their purpose.

Zagarth

This comet passes by about every 83 years and remains in the sky and can be seen by the human naked eye for about 2 weeks. Species with stronger eye sight can see it for longer. It appears about 6 weeks when it comes to elves and about 12 weeks when it comes to the medes. It is believed that this comet increases psychic abilities and it is a good time to use the Mystic Prophecy cards.

Celestara’s Glimmer

Known for its radiant blue tail that lights up the night sky. It passes by every 233 years. The magical quality of this comet is Starlight Infusion, which temporarily enhances the caster’s magical abilities, making their spells more potent. The ritual is performed under the comet’s glow, the caster draws starlight into a crystal, which is then worn or held to channel the enhanced power. Celestara’s Glimmer: Appearing once every 233 years, it is said that those who make a wish upon Celestara’s Glimmer are granted clarity and vision for their future.

Frostfire Comet

Emits a shimmering, icy glow and is said to bring a chill wherever it passes. This comet comes around every 124 years. The type of magic used with this comet is called the Celestial Ward. It creates a protective barrier around a person or place, imbued with the comet’s energy. The ritual requires the caster to inscribe protective runes on the ground or on an object, invoking the comet’s name.

Dragon’s Breath Comet

Leaves a fiery trail and is associated with powerful elemental magic. This comet is the shortest one and comes around every 59 years. This comet wasn’t known until the Fifth Age, which is the only age that uses air, fire, water, earth, and spirit as the elements. Simple to very complex rituals can be performed when this comet comes around. Note:

Mystra’s Veil

Named after a legendary sorceress, this comet is said to veil the world in a mystical aura. The comet comes by every 147 years. This magic used with this comet is Astral Beacon:

Effect: Summons celestial beings or spirits to aid the caster. Ritual: Performed by lighting a special beacon or bonfire under the comet’s light, using specific herbs and incantations. Believed to be the manifestation of the sorceress Mystra’s power, this comet’s sighting is often accompanied by a surge in magical phenomena.

Glows with a golden light, believed to be a sign of divine favor. The comet comes around once every 401 years. and Rituals During Comet Sightings have to do with prosperity. However, one must approach the ritual in a certain way while facing the north and burning a green and brown candle. Magical Spells Seraph’s Wing.

Seraph’s Wing

A harbinger of hope, its golden light is seen as a divine blessing, and its arrival is celebrated with festivals and rituals of thanksgiving. Eclipse Enchantment Effect: Temporarily cloaks the caster or an object in shadow, rendering them invisible. Comes around every 72 years. Ritual: Must be cast when the comet is directly overhead, using a piece of obsidian and a reflective surface. Chrono

Shift Effect: Allows the caster to manipulate time slightly, either slowing it down or speeding it up. Comes around every 78 years. Ritual: Involves creating a timepiece infused with comet dust, which is used to channel the temporal magic.

Frostfire Comet Appearing during the coldest winters, it brings with it both destruction and renewal, as its icy flames cleanse the land. Usually, a destructive kind of magic comes from magic under this comet, which comes around every 90 years.

Dragon’s Breath Comet

Feared and revered, its appearance is often a sign of great change, marking the rise of new leaders or the fall of old empires. It orbits every 86 years and can be seen for over a week when it passes by. The magic used for this type of magic is generally dark and used on those who are under attack.

Like Earth, there are comets that pass by the skies seen from Aztharian. Some people believe that certain kinds of magic can be used when a comet is visible in the sky. There are certain magic spells that are related to certain comets, especially the ones that pass by more regularly. Here are the known comets and their purpose.

Zagarth

This comet passes by about every 83 years and remains in the sky and can be seen by the human naked eye for about 2 weeks. Species with stronger eye sight can see it for longer. It appears about 6 weeks when it comes to elves and about 12 weeks when it comes to the medes. It is believed that this comet increases psychic abilities and it is a good time to use the Mystic Prophecy cards.

Celestara’s Glimmer:

Known for its radiant blue tail that lights up the night sky. It passes by every 233 years. The magical quality of this comet is Starlight Infusion, which temporarily enhances the caster’s magical abilities, making their spells more potent. The ritual is performed under the comet’s glow, the caster draws starlight into a crystal, which is then worn or held to channel the enhanced power.

Celestara’s Glimmer: Appearing once every 233 years, it is said that those who make a wish upon Celestara’s Glimmer are granted clarity and vision for their future.

Frostfire Comet

Emits a shimmering, icy glow and is said to bring a chill wherever it passes. This comet comes around every 124 years. The type of magic used with this comet is called the Celestial Ward. It creates a protective barrier around a person or place, imbued with the comet’s energy. The ritual requires the caster to inscribe protective runes on the ground or on an object, invoking the comet’s name.

Dragon’s Breath Comet:

Leaves a fiery trail and is associated with powerful elemental magic. This comet is the shortest one and comes around every 59 years. This comet wasn’t known until the Fifth Age, which is the only age that uses air, fire, water, earth, and spirit as the elements. Simple to very complex rituals can be performed when this comet comes around. Note: Perhaps Xandria uses this magic in the fourth book.

Mystra’s Veil

Named after a legendary sorceress, this comet is said to veil the world in a mystical aura. The comet comes by every 147 years. This magic used with this comet is Astral Beacon: Effect: Summons celestial beings or spirits to aid the caster. Ritual: Performed by lighting a special beacon or bonfire under the comet’s light, using specific herbs and incantations. Believed to be the manifestation of the sorceress Mystra’s power, this comet’s sighting is often accompanied by a surge in magical phenomena.

Seraph’s Wing

Glows with a golden light, believed to be a sign of divine favor. The comet comes around once every 401 years. Magical Spells and Rituals During Comet Sightings have to do with prosperity. However, one must approach the ritual in a certain way while facing the north and burning a green and brown candle.

Seraph’s Wing: A harbinger of hope, its golden light is seen as a divine blessing, and its arrival is celebrated with festivals and rituals of thanksgiving.

Eclipse Enchantment

Effect: Temporarily cloaks the caster or an object in shadow, rendering them invisible. Comes around every 72 years. Ritual: Must be cast when the comet is directly overhead, using a piece of obsidian and a reflective surface.

Chrono Shift

Effect: Allows the caster to manipulate time slightly, either slowing it down or speeding it up. Comes around every 78 years. Ritual: Involves creating a timepiece infused with comet dust, which is used to channel the temporal magic.

Frostfire Comet

Appearing during the coldest winters, it brings with it both destruction and renewal, as its icy flames cleanse the land. Usually, a destructive kind of magic comes from magic under this comet, which comes around every 90 years.

Dragon’s Breath Comet

Feared and revered, its appearance is often a sign of great change, marking the rise of new leaders or the fall of old empires. It orbits every 86 years and can be seen for over a week when it passes by. The magic used for this type of magic is generally dark and used on those who are under attack.