While most species think that luck and superstition are silly, old traditions, the Thanatians still cling on to their ancient, environment-worshipping beliefs. One of the more dominant beliefs is Raptoric Astrology, particularly the twelve star signs which are used to predict fortune at both the hatching and throughout the life of individual Thanatians.
Although they are called Thanatoforic Star Signs, they in fact refer more to the positioning of the twelve moons that orbit at a distance around the twin planets Thanatia 2 and Thanatia 3. The twelve moons, which are far enough away and reflective enough to appear as large stars, orbit slowly around the planets, almost matching that of the universal 12-month calendar. Each moon shines at its brightest around the middle of its corresponding month, before fading away again at the end of it. The moons were originally believed to be stars, as primitive Thanatians lacked the understanding to know what they really are. The names have stuck ever since.
The twelve moons each match a specific trait, which many Thanatians try to emulate with their lives.
Kalkerastra – The Star of Warmth – August
The moon of August comes at the hottest time of the year. Eggs that hatch in August are generally the most developed, their mothers having taken advantage of the temperate weather to care for them. The children of Kalkerastra are overly social and dependent on others, always wanting to be the centre of attention. They bring warmth to the hearts of others.
Ksipnada – The Star of Knowledge – September
September is the calmest month of the year, free from many of the harsher struggles of life, giving many a chance to explore and advance the world around them. Those who hatch at this time of year tend to be smarter and more knowledgable of the world, willing to put aside their hunger and their desire to hunt in order to better their knowledge of the world around them. There are downsides though, as the children of Ksipnada may be shy or seem weak, despite their mental prowess.
Isomernikt – The Star of Balance – October
While October may not be as peaceful as September, it offers a bit of everything. Those who hatch during October find themselves having a bit of everything – both good and bad. They never wander too far off the track, while neither sticking too close to it. The children of Isomernikt are just right, not too shy, not too overbearing, not too hot, not too cold, getting along with everyone, no matter who they are.
Monarxia – The Star of Solidarity – November
November brings with it loneliness, as do its children. Thanatians born under the Star of Solidarity are independent beings who enjoy being on their own, doing things their way. When they do spend time with other Thanatians, they do so because they want to, often trying to put themselves in charge.
Fovolikt – The Star of Stasis – December
As the climate gets colder, movement becomes more and more scarce, yet everything remains the same. Thanatians hatching under the Star of Stasis often grow up to be strong but stubborn, always sticking to their beliefs, incredibly hard to persuade and turn away.
Neakroni – The Star of Renewal – January
The start of the new year brings many surprises, and those who hatch under Neakroni embrace the unknown. Children of Neakroni are outgoing and optimistic, always wanting to try new things. They live for others, never for themselves, but this can sometimes lead to self-loathing, possibly even neglect as they forget to look after themselves.
Psikeria – The Star of Cold – February
February is the coldest month, and unattended Thanatian hatchlings will perish in the harsh climates. Younglings will grow up to be as cold as the climate they hatched in. They prefer to remain alone, as negative emotions such as envy will quickly get the better of them. Despite this, the children of the Cold are respectful of others and have a sense of duty to protect them, even if it means just getting rid of them to be alone once more.
Thinanou – The Star of Courage – March
March may not be as harsh as other winter months, but it brings its own dark climate. Those who hatch under Thinanou are headstrong and courageous, never feeling fear. They are often knights, defenders of the weak, but they can also be daredevils, enjoying the thrill of the hunt, the rush of adrenaline. But their lack of understanding can lead them into taking unnecessary risks.
Zoadontnik – The Star of Survival – April
Any egg that manages to survive being laid in the cold winter months has already struggled enough, but those who make it will endure more and more challenges. The Star of Survival gives power and strength to only the fittest and most determined of Thanatians. Those who hatch under Zoadontnik are headstrong and forceful, always pushing forward and never giving in, even to the point of severe stress or anger, often throwing fits if they can’t get things to go their way. Their strength can be their undoing though, as some simply do not know when to give up and when enough is enough.
Dialiaxa – The Star of Change – May
May brings with it the changing of seasons, as the cold fades away, life blossoms back and things get better. Those who hatch under the Star of Change are always on the move, leaping from one thing to another, never standing still. Their desire to always change though can be their downfall, as many will struggle to settle in one place, always moving on to greener pastures.
Agapasa – The Star of Love – June
The month of June is often the start of the mating season for many Thanatians, but those who hatch under the Star of Love will find their lives filled with romance. The children of Agapasa are joyful and wish to share their lives with others, not to mention sleep with as many of the opposite gender as possible. This makes it hard for these Thanatians to maintain stable relationships, but those who manage it will live fruitful and happy lives. These Thanatians can occasionally take things too far, and will sulk if they get turned down too much.
Kivernisia – The Star of Leadership – July
After the mating season, the strongest Thanatians find themselves regaining their strength and taking back control. Any egg fortunate enough to survive the culling of leaders will grow up to be a powerful leader themselves. Not only do they have the intelligence and cunning to lead and guide others, but they also have that extra hint of cruelty that allows them to make the necessary sacrifices in order to keep themselves on top.