Ota/Brel is a large G-type main-sequence star, with a relatively high UV output. It is the star in the centre of the Ota/Brel system and has 9 planets orbiting it. It is known by two different names to the native sapient species of the sun's system, the Naera calling it Ota and the Qotarids calling it Brel.
Creation Myths
The Driseth people of
Laethius believe that their sun, Ota, is home to the parent of all creation. It is said that Ota was the first being to come into existence and was alone for centuries until his mate found him. Together, Ota and
Kyorta shaped the rest of the universe. Their first children looked much the same as them and left to make their own homes when they grew into adults, making the stars visible in Laethius' sky. The youngest children of Ota and Kyorta still reside close to their father, in order that he might protect them. The doorways to these children's homes are the planets within the Ota/Brel system.
Similarly, the Mozai people and the Skoynea people of Laethius believe that Ota is the father of all creation, however, they believe that Kyorta is a rebellious child of Ota's and that she brings mischief and chaos whenever she appears.
Cultural Practices
There are priesthoods amongst the Driseth, Mozai, and Skoynea people dedicated to Ota. They worship him, interpret his voice and guide others in his teachings.
The Driseth priesthood is known as the
Ota Ilukan. The priests spend long days on high ground, either on the Onoboua Ridge or on top of specially-built buildings. They spend long hours performing various meditation techniques, in order to try and find the Voice of Ota so that they might follow his will. One such meditation involves standing and staring at the edge of the sun for as long as possible, before closing their eyes and listening for a sign. If nothing is found, they will repeat the process until the sun sets, or until they collapse. Another method of meditation involves ingesting hallucinogenic herbs, being tied on the steps of the temples and allowing your mind to open to the Voice of Ota. At the start of every year, the Ota Ilukan will burn a portion of Driseth's harvest at the top of the tallest ceremonial building, in order to give thanks to Ota.
The
Ota Lowas is the Mozai priesthood dedicated to Ota. They follow many of the same practices as the Ota Ilukan, except they typically do not climb mountains, as there are none located within the borders of their lands. Instead, they build temples in
white and golden colours, where they perform their daily prayers, meditations, and give the Teachings of Ota.
The
Otanea of the Skoynea people burn certain plants in their doorways to ward off evil spirits and invite those belonging to Ota into their buildings.
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