Pnueology

## Overview

Pnueology is a complex and intricate astrological system practiced by some Callaxians, particularly in the continent of Kemper. Pnueology is considered by many Callaxians—especially in Rayz and Tarn—to be too complicated to take seriously. It can be seen by some as somewhat insufferable. With its roots in Callax's rich celestial landscape, Pnueology incorporates elements such as the planet's two moons, its 300 zodiacs, and its unique calendar to interpret and predict various aspects of an individual's life, traits, and fate. Although the practice has its share of detractors, it remains a significant cultural aspect of life on Callax.

## History

The zodiac was developed by a now-extinct Tarnish tribe in the A1000's called the Raci. Some of the constellations aren't *quite* as clear the in the present day—millennia later—but it looks basically the same. Opinions vary among Stratists about whether Pnueology is harmless fun, something that's actually compatible with Stratism as it relates to the Heavens, or if is an evil influence. Pnueology makes no mention of gods, so it does seem to be up to individual interpretation. However, more traditional Stratists are definitely more likely to denounce it.

Interest has waxed and waned over the many centuries, but by the time of its revival in Kemper in the A4440's, it was largely considered an archaic and mostly-forgotten practice.

## Zodiacs and Their Influences

In Pnueology, there are 300 unique zodiacs spread across the 12 months of the Tarnish calendar, with each month having 25 distinct zodiacs. The final zodiac, known as the "Confluential Zodiac," is exclusive to those born during the event of "The Confluence." This zodiac is considered to bestow either extraordinary luck or extreme misfortune, depending on which astrologer you ask.

The zodiacs are based on constellations, though many of them are considered a stretch of the imagination as there aren't 300 well-defined constellations to choose from, and—as they are millennia old—the stars have shifted somewhat, albeit not drastically. Each zodiac is further influenced by the day of the week on which the individual was born (Xalai, Yilai, Pintolai, Grelai, Imalai, or Rolai), creating many hundreds of possible zodiac-day combinations. Some of these combinations have amusing names, such as "The Flustered Flokynthian Xalai" or "The Perpetually Procrastinating Pluvonar Pintolai."

Scroll to the bottom of this page for more detailed examples of Zodiacs.

## Pnuedists

Pnuedists, the practitioners of Pnueology responsible for assigning zodiacs to individuals, claim to carefully consider a multitude of factors, from the individual's birth week and eye color to their family background, in order to discern the individual's zodiac. This process can be both time-consuming and mystifying to those who are not well-versed in the art.

The intricate requirements for determining one's zodiac in Pnueology highlight the complexity and diversity of opinions surrounding this esoteric tradition. While some individuals take Pnueology quite seriously, others view it as a lighthearted form of entertainment, and still, others dismiss it as complete nonsense.

At times, Pnuedists may claim that an individual does not perfectly match any specific zodiac's criteria. In such instances, a degree of flexibility is allowed, with Pnuedists sometimes claiming that the stars themselves communicate their will, leading to seemingly ill-fitting zodiac assignments. This aspect of Pnueology can be perceived differently: some see it as evidence of the Pnuedist's skill and the mystical nature of the practice, while others view it as proof of its nonsensical or fraudulent nature.

Public opinion regarding Pnuedists is similarly varied. Some people hold them in high regard, respecting their knowledge and skills, while others simply enjoy the entertainment value Pnuedists provide. However, there are also those who consider Pnuedists to be either delusional or harmfully deceitful, attempting to manipulate others for their own benefit, namely monetary gain, as it is a paid vocation.

## Moons and Their Impact

Fo'mul and Go'mul, the two moons of Callax, play a significant role in Pnueology. The phases of the moons at the time of a person's birth are believed to affect their personality traits, including some that are rather absurd, like an innate ability to predict the weather with their toes, or a tendency to sneeze whenever they tell a lie.

The simultaneous full moons of Fo'mul and Go'mul, known as "The Confluence," occur every 234 Callaxian days and are considered a time of heightened spiritual significance in Callaxian culture.

## Seasonal Influences

The season and month in which a person is born also influences Pnueological readings. Each season is associated with specific characteristics and qualities believed to manifest in those born during that time. For example, people born during Estivarum may be considered hot-headed and prone to spontaneous combustion – figuratively speaking, of course.

## Pnueology in Kemper

In Kemper, the Stratum was formally abolished over a hundred years ago. Since then, many of its people have turned to Pnueology as their primary belief system, with a very wide range in how seriously adherents take it. Although there are a few pockets of people who still voluntarily practice the Stratum, the number of adherents has dwindled dramatically since its abolition. Pnueology has flourished in Kemper, with many embracing its intricate system and finding value in its guidance and predictions.

In Kemper, Pnueology plays a significant role in various festivals and events tied to the Callaxian calendar. For example, the Winter Solstice (Vintarum) may be a time when Pnueologists gather to share predictions for the coming year, often engaging in friendly competitions to see who can come up with the most outlandish forecast. The Spring (Arxonus) is a period when Pnueology practitioners seek guidance for planting crops, dealing with romantic relationships, and making financial decisions based on astrological readings, occasionally recommending highly unorthodox crop combinations or other courses of action.

## Selected Examples of Zodiacs

### The Juggling Crenai

* Constellation: A cluster of stars forming an abstract image of a Crenai, a native Callaxian creature with multiple limbs, juggling various objects.
* Legend: In Callaxian folklore, there was a talented Crenai who could juggle anything from fruits to fiery torches. This creature entertained royalty and commoners alike, symbolizing the balance of life and the importance of finding joy amidst chaos. Those born under this zodiac are said to be adaptable, quick-witted, and skilled at managing multiple tasks simultaneously.
* Requirements: Born during the second week of Flokynth. Eye color must be shades of blue or green. Hair color must be predominantly dark. The individual must be the first or third-born child in their family.

### The Dancing Glimmerstones

* Constellation: A collection of bright stars that resemble a circle of Glimmerstones, rare gemstones found on Callax.
* Legend: It is said that during a great drought, the Glimmerstones danced in the sky to bring rain and restore the land. As a result, this zodiac is associated with resilience and the ability to overcome adversity. Those born under the Dancing Glimmerstones are believed to possess a strong connection to nature and an unwavering determination to succeed.
* Requirements: Born during the third week of Colidrik. Eye color must be shades of brown or amber. Hair color must be predominantly light. The individual's birth must have coincided with a rainstorm or other significant weather event.

### The Laughing Mekkabird:

* Constellation: A group of stars that form a rough outline of a Mekkabird, a comical, flightless bird native to Callax.
* Legend: The Laughing Mekkabird is a symbol of humor and lightheartedness in Callaxian culture. It is said that when a Mekkabird's laughter echoes through the forest, it has the power to uplift the spirits of all who hear it. Individuals born under this zodiac are thought to have a contagious sense of humor, a natural gift for storytelling, and the ability to brighten the mood of any gathering.
* Requirements: Born during the fourth week of Pluvonar. Eye color must be shades of gray or hazel. Hair color must be a mixture of light and dark hues. The individual must be an even-numbered child in their family (e.g., the second or fourth-born).

### The Spiral of Shifting Sands

* Constellation: A swirling pattern of stars that resembles a sandstorm or vortex.
* Legend: In ancient Callaxian mythology, a powerful sandstorm was once unleashed by the god of wind, causing the landscape to shift and change. The Spiral of Shifting Sands represents transformation, adaptability, and the ever-changing nature of life. Those born under this zodiac are said to be versatile, open to new experiences, and able to navigate the twists and turns of life with grace.
* Requirements: Born during the first week of Sakithor. Eye color must be shades of green or brown. Hair color must be predominantly red or auburn. The individual's birth must have occurred during a period of significant change or transition for the family.

### The Soaring Skywhale

* Constellation: A constellation that forms the silhouette of a majestic Skywhale, a mythical creature said to have once roamed Callax's skies.
* Legend: The Soaring Skywhale is a symbol of freedom, exploration, and the vastness of the universe. In Callaxian tales, this enormous creature would journey through the skies, carrying travelers and seekers of wisdom on its back. Those born under this zodiac are believed to have a strong sense of wanderlust, an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, and a deep appreciation for the beauty of the cosmos.
* Requirements: Born during the fist week of Estivarum. Eye color must be shades of blue or gray. Hair color must be predominantly blonde or light. The individual must be born at a high elevation or during a time when the two moons, Fo'mul and Go'mul, are visible in the sky.

### The Harmonious Plingflower

* Constellation: A constellation that forms the shape of a Plingflower, a native Callaxian plant that produces a soothing, melodic sound when its petals are gently brushed.
* Legend: The Harmonious Plingflower is a symbol of peace, unity, and the power of music. In Callaxian lore, the gentle melodies of the Plingflower were said to soothe even the most troubled hearts and bring harmony to warring factions. Individuals born under this zodiac are thought to possess a natural talent for diplomacy, a deep sense of empathy, and a gift for fostering understanding between others.
* Requirements: Born during the second week of Lauternis. Eye color must be shades of amber or hazel. Hair color must be predominantly brown or dark. The individual must be born into a family with a strong musical or artistic background or during a significant cultural event.