Bowen Russetash (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
gogodwarvenranger) wrote2028-01-01 12:59 am
gogodwarvenranger) wrote2028-01-01 12:59 am
ALL THE TAROT BULLSHIT
Since the characters are now different Tarot symbols, I did some reading up on fortune interpretations to see if I could get some sweet deets on how they relate??
I'm focusing on the upright symbols, by the way, because holy shit how did I write this much already. I'm not sure if any characters have reached enough self-fulfillment to not be showing some of the reversed qualities. I know for a fact that Bowen isn't, though she's made progress.
Bowen and Nin — Strength (8) and Hermit (9)
Both of these cards are ones of inner growth and health, and they urge us to tend to our souls. However, these two cards stand side-by-side, which always leads to a dichotomy between the two. In this case it comes down to whether they fall in the domain of Apollo or Dionysus — they are masters of different sides of the inner world, and this naturally changes their relationship with the greater world. Strength respects her primal needs, both emotional and carnal, realizing they cannot control her if she tends to them properly. As part of this, she forms an intimate relationship with her world — she channels its power to fuel her own engine, and then returns the favor with the same nurturing touch as a gardener. On the other hand, Hermit values isolation — a distance that will grant a much broader perspective, a silence that will amplify the inner voice, and a dash of her own secret ingredient, time. And she, too, shares the benefit of her growth, becoming a guru to other people. Neither is wrong in their approach, since there's times and reasons for feasting and fasting. And in the end, they both heed the same truth, that changing the world must begin with changing the self.
Bowen and Velo — Strength (8) and Wheel of Fortune (10)
The two seem isolated in their respective domains. Strength is calm and balanced, touching the center of personal power, while the Wheel spins with a miraculous, divine energy beyond the grasp of mere mortals. Strength is the source of self-control, and the Wheel is that which cannot be controlled. Despite this, they both resonate with a primal and radiant energy, one that instills each with the element of success. Looking between the two, we are reminded that we, too, carry the sparkle of something miraculous. What seems impossible could very well be within grasp. Let Strength decide when to roll the die, and the Wheel promises to deliver a natural 20.
Bowen and Gorudak — Strength (8) and Hanged Man (12)
There's some common elements here. Both are seen in situations that appear dangerous and vulnerable without closer examination — Strength is playing with a vicious predator, and the Hanged Man has abandoned his defenses. But they are doing so to urge the value of casting aside preconceptions, accepting the situation as it is, and of directing one's energy inwards. However, Strength does so as a counterintuitive way to control the situation, which almost makes her seem like a deceptive trickster compared to the Hanged Man who has truly surrendered himself to greater forces. As long as they work together, Strength can restore the agency of the Hanged Man. She shows that he is not a victim but a hero, that he is a martyr by choice and thus should be admired rather than pitied. Their goals won't be swiftly achieved, but their combined patience and endurance will hold the line until the necessary breakthrough arises. All trials will be passed, all efforts will bear fruit. Just you wait and see.
Bowen and Varis — Strength (8) and Tower (16)
When it comes to positive influences in the deck, Strength won't shine as brightly as the Sun or Star — it can't, since it's on the side of the deck related to what we make happen, rather than what happens to us — but its inner, enduring positivity is particularly good at grappling with dangerous cards and bringing out their silver linings. In fact, the Tower gets called out as a lucky encounter for Strength, despite all the loss and misfortune the Tower is supposed to represent. The lesson of Strength is that true victory won't come from fighting what threatens you. Instead, Strength accepts the beast and tames it with a gentle touch, showing that even the most deadly foe could instead be an essential ally. All of this holds true even in the face of the overwhelming chaos and disaster that Tower brings — often brought upon by the Devil's thrall, which Strength is the secret weapon to overcoming. Strength can not only handle the Tower's wrath, but find ways to harness the destructive energy, to unleash its potential as an incredible catalyst of change and release. There will be turnabouts, unexpected upsides from bad situations. Danger will be laughed at, risky choices will be met with the smile of good fortune.
Bowen and Naeris — Strength (8) and Star (17)
So, hey. Believe it or not, out of all partnerships and connections discussed here? These two might actually be the most closely associated symbols. That's just in the scope of the party, though, of course the deck has these for everything but the unique Fool. For the ones relevant to the other party characters, we have the Chariot and the Tower - the Hermit and the Moon - the Magician, the Wheel of Fortune and the Sun - the Empress, the Hanged Man and the World. For our Big Bad, the Emperor... of course, it's Death. In each case, there should be elements between the characters — physically, emotionally, spiritually, in both feeling and action — that ring as surprisingly similar, for they are pieces that have been cut from the same cloth.
See, there's all kinds of patterns to take notice of in Tarot, they've literally overloaded it with symbolism. That's why it's fun. But one thing in particular that Tarot relies heavily on is numerology, and thus it's no surprise that Strength (8) and Star (1 + 7 = 8) both deal heavily with spiritual health, balance, and good vibrations. They're the peaceful sisters of the war-minded 7s (Strength to Chariot, and Star to Tower), and serve as sources of kindness and vitality. You might say that Strength is the alignment of inner forces, which can be channeled outwards; and the Star is looking upwards to find the universe has harmonized with you and come into that same alignment, sending that energy right back to the self. It's a synergy of two that thrive on synergy, and it's one that does require a mind for balance to get the most out of. That's especially true for Strength, who deals in earthly forces and must build her balance from within instead of being gifted it by the cosmos. But the Star is notoriously generous, and will provide the best guidance to help her earthly counterpart find that perfect harmonic chord. And if they keep those chakras aligned and work together? Their combined positive energy will have an overflowing, boundless reach.
Nin and Velo — Hermit (9) and Wheel of Fortune (10)
You know how I said that cards next to each other will have a certain dichotomy? Well, how does this one strike you? In one corner, we have the Hermit that stands apart from the greater world, freeing herself from its distractions so that she may find a stable point from which to better understand it. And in the other, we have the Wheel of Fortune, a surging, dynamic force of destiny that by nature defies comprehension. This might sound there's a lot of distance and detachment between these two extremes, but at the same time.... it's oddly harmonious, isn't it? The Hermit is grounded even while on the move, and thus can coexist with the surging, electric energy of the Wheel. And they are both cards that span time, space, and narrative arcs. A great journey is lying ahead, one full of mystery and discovery, and perhaps even world-changing consequences. And the wandering Hermit is ready. She will follow the path with the right mix of curiosity and patience, to let the narrative carry her though its full arc.
Nin and Gorudak — Hermit (9) and Hanged Man (12)
Boy, these two sure aren't a happy-looking duo. You can practically hear the sighing from here as these two voices of sobriety (maybe TOO sober for this) sit back and watch the world spin by. They both deal in long periods of time, and are rich in insight gained through a detached perspective. But the Hermit is one who chose to remove herself, who is traveling and has made the choice to better herself — whereas the Hanged Man is stuck in his circumstances and sacrificing something essential, and what is gained might not break even with what he's lost. That's not necessarily bad, though, since regardless of what else has been lost, the Hanged Man has achieved a rare and special gift, the zen which the Hermit seeks. Their shared perspective will indeed yield powerful and maybe radical truths, as two viewpoints can examine the world in a depth one never could.
Nin and Varis — Hermit (9) and Tower (16)
So, maybe the somber Hermit isn't the most uplifting face to see after the disaster of the Tower. But medicine is often bitter, and the Hermit carries the remedy powers needed to cope with the Tower's brand of devastation. It's a familiar medicine, maybe you've heard of it — time, the cure-all for even the most tragic of losses. After any failures, the Hermit reminds yourself to give yourself plenty of time and space, as much as you need, and to take good care of yourself in that period of withdrawal. These things happen, after all, and beating yourself up for it won't make the situation better. Once you've reached a place where you can safely reflect on what happened, you can draw from past experience and grow as an individual.
Nin and Naeris — Hermit (9) and Star (17)
There is perhaps none other who can appreciate the serene blessing of the Star as much as the lonely Hermit. On the road to enlightenment, the Hermit is always watching and learning from the surrounding world. Naturally, she takes part in stargazing as well. And the Star is the best guidance that world can provide, illuminating the darkness and drawing a map to divine truth. Of course, the Hermit's divine truth also comes from within her own soul, and so the light of the Star will reflect and shine through the Hermit. With this sort of partnership, the two will be like a lantern for all others to follow, leading those around them down a profoundly spiritual path.
Velo and Gorudak — Wheel of Fortune (10) and Hanged Man (12)
This is a story all about how his life got flipped, turned upside down. ... okay, no, but seriously. There's a story I really like about the Monkey King — despite being unrivaled in earthly power, he was challenged to escape from the Buddha's palm, and could not. That's more or less the image this creates, where the Hanged Man has realized he cannot stop the turbulent higher powers of the Wheel, and he can only wait until they're done with him. And let's face it, if luck was in his favor, he probably wouldn't be in a position where he's trying to minimize his losses. So, yeah, that sucks? But the Hanged Man is also an observant force, and gets to enjoy insights no other can. And the Wheel, despite looking incomprehensible to most, is filled with patterns that can be picked out by a keen eye. There may be flashes of wisdom, visions crucial and prophetic. So even if he never wanted to play this game (and believe me, he really did not), he can take heart in knowing he might walk away with a rare prize.
Velo and Varis — Wheel of Fortune (10) and Tower (16)
Oh, geez. Oh, man. These two synergize in a truly worrisome way. Both delve deeply into the powers of fate beyond mortal control, one of destruction and loss and one of chance and fluctuation. The good news is that chaos is nothing if not dynamic, and the Wheel seems to have a slight bias towards success. It could very well spin the circumstances of the Tower, where that loss is just the first domino to fall in a chain reaction towards something amazing. On the other hand, it could be the Wheel that pushed the Tower over in the first place, and this combination is the omen of a terrible cataclysm. Be mindful of what's happening, and familiarize yourself with the emergency exits, because the stakes are definitely going to be raised.
Velo and Naeris — Wheel of Fortune (10) and Star (17)
Now here, on the other hand, the combination is the pure embodiment of a lucky Star, a good omen bordering on the wondrous. The Star is already renowned in the deck for its powers of blessing, and how it generously rewards our hopes and dreams. And now it's working in alignment with the Wheel, a mighty engine of karmic energy which brings forth incredible, almost unbelievable circumstances into our lives. Since the Star also provides guidance, it's as if the element of risk is washed out, as even the worst outcome would be illuminated by reassuring hope. But really, this is far more likely to bring forth joy and miracles. Dreams can come true, so go ahead and believe in them, you beautiful, precious Star child.
Gorudak and Varis — Hanged Man (12) and Tower (16)
Let's see. One is an overpowering negative force, and the other is a suggestion that surrender is an option, that a temporary failure may spare you from a greater one. Gee, this spells a message loud and clear: Cut your losses. Don't dwell on what could have been, just accept that some things can't be fixed. And honestly, maybe they shouldn't be? The Tower cannot stand forever, in every possible sense. Eventually, every fire and every storm will die down. The Hanged Man tells you to sit down and shut up, wait for the dust to settle. Save your strength for where it will actually do some good. And yes, there will be such a place and time — if there's a positive way to spin this, it's the element of the breakthrough. The Tower is the cosmic equivalent of the conquering Chariot, which hints at its potential as an unrivaled weapon... if only we aren't the one stuck in its crosshairs. Hang back and wait, as the Hanged Man does, and it can clear away your greatest obstacles.
Gorudak and Naeris — Hanged Man (12) and Star (17)
It's easy to feel bad for the Hanged Man. To most, his situation seems to be one mired in failure, where the entire world is against him and has forced him into this powerless state. But the precious Star knows better, seeing that this was the man's insightful choice, one he has accepted as the best option available. No matter how the desperate the circumstances, this is a man who has lost everything but hope, who won't be moved by the chains of the Devil or fear of Death. Instead, he watches and waits for new opportunities. And the Star is watching him in turn, taking delight in how it almost looks like he's standing with her in the cosmos. She sees how his sacrifice plays in the grand scheme, the role he has accepted in a greater destiny. It will not be in vain. She'll grant him good karma, and see his moral actions rewarded.
Varis and Naeris — Tower (16) and Star (17)
Another dichotomy. This is a meeting of the forces of destruction and creation, the left and right hands of destiny. These two powers keep the world in continuous motion, as the pendulum of fate swings back and forth ceaselessly. Storms will be followed by rainbows, and the Tower's wrath can only last for so long. When it fades, the Star's creative energy will find a field upon which to grow. That's the order we expect — but don't forget, this can be so easily reversed. Disaster can strike suddenly and fiercely, and who is less prepared for it than the gentle optimist? Neither will ever overcome the other. But maybe that's because they're never actually at odds, much like a sunset is not a battle between day and night. The two move in balance, creating a grand motion of change that cannot even be interrupted by the random, chaotic Wheel. Pay attention to the world around you, heed the ebb and flow of these energies. Seek to understand them, learn to move between them, make your decisions accordingly. Reaction is the key word, as these are both cosmic forces, and thus the situation is in karma's hands.
I'm focusing on the upright symbols, by the way, because holy shit how did I write this much already. I'm not sure if any characters have reached enough self-fulfillment to not be showing some of the reversed qualities. I know for a fact that Bowen isn't, though she's made progress.
Bowen and Nin — Strength (8) and Hermit (9)
Both of these cards are ones of inner growth and health, and they urge us to tend to our souls. However, these two cards stand side-by-side, which always leads to a dichotomy between the two. In this case it comes down to whether they fall in the domain of Apollo or Dionysus — they are masters of different sides of the inner world, and this naturally changes their relationship with the greater world. Strength respects her primal needs, both emotional and carnal, realizing they cannot control her if she tends to them properly. As part of this, she forms an intimate relationship with her world — she channels its power to fuel her own engine, and then returns the favor with the same nurturing touch as a gardener. On the other hand, Hermit values isolation — a distance that will grant a much broader perspective, a silence that will amplify the inner voice, and a dash of her own secret ingredient, time. And she, too, shares the benefit of her growth, becoming a guru to other people. Neither is wrong in their approach, since there's times and reasons for feasting and fasting. And in the end, they both heed the same truth, that changing the world must begin with changing the self.
Bowen and Velo — Strength (8) and Wheel of Fortune (10)
The two seem isolated in their respective domains. Strength is calm and balanced, touching the center of personal power, while the Wheel spins with a miraculous, divine energy beyond the grasp of mere mortals. Strength is the source of self-control, and the Wheel is that which cannot be controlled. Despite this, they both resonate with a primal and radiant energy, one that instills each with the element of success. Looking between the two, we are reminded that we, too, carry the sparkle of something miraculous. What seems impossible could very well be within grasp. Let Strength decide when to roll the die, and the Wheel promises to deliver a natural 20.
Bowen and Gorudak — Strength (8) and Hanged Man (12)
There's some common elements here. Both are seen in situations that appear dangerous and vulnerable without closer examination — Strength is playing with a vicious predator, and the Hanged Man has abandoned his defenses. But they are doing so to urge the value of casting aside preconceptions, accepting the situation as it is, and of directing one's energy inwards. However, Strength does so as a counterintuitive way to control the situation, which almost makes her seem like a deceptive trickster compared to the Hanged Man who has truly surrendered himself to greater forces. As long as they work together, Strength can restore the agency of the Hanged Man. She shows that he is not a victim but a hero, that he is a martyr by choice and thus should be admired rather than pitied. Their goals won't be swiftly achieved, but their combined patience and endurance will hold the line until the necessary breakthrough arises. All trials will be passed, all efforts will bear fruit. Just you wait and see.
Bowen and Varis — Strength (8) and Tower (16)
When it comes to positive influences in the deck, Strength won't shine as brightly as the Sun or Star — it can't, since it's on the side of the deck related to what we make happen, rather than what happens to us — but its inner, enduring positivity is particularly good at grappling with dangerous cards and bringing out their silver linings. In fact, the Tower gets called out as a lucky encounter for Strength, despite all the loss and misfortune the Tower is supposed to represent. The lesson of Strength is that true victory won't come from fighting what threatens you. Instead, Strength accepts the beast and tames it with a gentle touch, showing that even the most deadly foe could instead be an essential ally. All of this holds true even in the face of the overwhelming chaos and disaster that Tower brings — often brought upon by the Devil's thrall, which Strength is the secret weapon to overcoming. Strength can not only handle the Tower's wrath, but find ways to harness the destructive energy, to unleash its potential as an incredible catalyst of change and release. There will be turnabouts, unexpected upsides from bad situations. Danger will be laughed at, risky choices will be met with the smile of good fortune.
Bowen and Naeris — Strength (8) and Star (17)
So, hey. Believe it or not, out of all partnerships and connections discussed here? These two might actually be the most closely associated symbols. That's just in the scope of the party, though, of course the deck has these for everything but the unique Fool. For the ones relevant to the other party characters, we have the Chariot and the Tower - the Hermit and the Moon - the Magician, the Wheel of Fortune and the Sun - the Empress, the Hanged Man and the World. For our Big Bad, the Emperor... of course, it's Death. In each case, there should be elements between the characters — physically, emotionally, spiritually, in both feeling and action — that ring as surprisingly similar, for they are pieces that have been cut from the same cloth.
See, there's all kinds of patterns to take notice of in Tarot, they've literally overloaded it with symbolism. That's why it's fun. But one thing in particular that Tarot relies heavily on is numerology, and thus it's no surprise that Strength (8) and Star (1 + 7 = 8) both deal heavily with spiritual health, balance, and good vibrations. They're the peaceful sisters of the war-minded 7s (Strength to Chariot, and Star to Tower), and serve as sources of kindness and vitality. You might say that Strength is the alignment of inner forces, which can be channeled outwards; and the Star is looking upwards to find the universe has harmonized with you and come into that same alignment, sending that energy right back to the self. It's a synergy of two that thrive on synergy, and it's one that does require a mind for balance to get the most out of. That's especially true for Strength, who deals in earthly forces and must build her balance from within instead of being gifted it by the cosmos. But the Star is notoriously generous, and will provide the best guidance to help her earthly counterpart find that perfect harmonic chord. And if they keep those chakras aligned and work together? Their combined positive energy will have an overflowing, boundless reach.
Nin and Velo — Hermit (9) and Wheel of Fortune (10)
You know how I said that cards next to each other will have a certain dichotomy? Well, how does this one strike you? In one corner, we have the Hermit that stands apart from the greater world, freeing herself from its distractions so that she may find a stable point from which to better understand it. And in the other, we have the Wheel of Fortune, a surging, dynamic force of destiny that by nature defies comprehension. This might sound there's a lot of distance and detachment between these two extremes, but at the same time.... it's oddly harmonious, isn't it? The Hermit is grounded even while on the move, and thus can coexist with the surging, electric energy of the Wheel. And they are both cards that span time, space, and narrative arcs. A great journey is lying ahead, one full of mystery and discovery, and perhaps even world-changing consequences. And the wandering Hermit is ready. She will follow the path with the right mix of curiosity and patience, to let the narrative carry her though its full arc.
Nin and Gorudak — Hermit (9) and Hanged Man (12)
Boy, these two sure aren't a happy-looking duo. You can practically hear the sighing from here as these two voices of sobriety (maybe TOO sober for this) sit back and watch the world spin by. They both deal in long periods of time, and are rich in insight gained through a detached perspective. But the Hermit is one who chose to remove herself, who is traveling and has made the choice to better herself — whereas the Hanged Man is stuck in his circumstances and sacrificing something essential, and what is gained might not break even with what he's lost. That's not necessarily bad, though, since regardless of what else has been lost, the Hanged Man has achieved a rare and special gift, the zen which the Hermit seeks. Their shared perspective will indeed yield powerful and maybe radical truths, as two viewpoints can examine the world in a depth one never could.
Nin and Varis — Hermit (9) and Tower (16)
So, maybe the somber Hermit isn't the most uplifting face to see after the disaster of the Tower. But medicine is often bitter, and the Hermit carries the remedy powers needed to cope with the Tower's brand of devastation. It's a familiar medicine, maybe you've heard of it — time, the cure-all for even the most tragic of losses. After any failures, the Hermit reminds yourself to give yourself plenty of time and space, as much as you need, and to take good care of yourself in that period of withdrawal. These things happen, after all, and beating yourself up for it won't make the situation better. Once you've reached a place where you can safely reflect on what happened, you can draw from past experience and grow as an individual.
Nin and Naeris — Hermit (9) and Star (17)
There is perhaps none other who can appreciate the serene blessing of the Star as much as the lonely Hermit. On the road to enlightenment, the Hermit is always watching and learning from the surrounding world. Naturally, she takes part in stargazing as well. And the Star is the best guidance that world can provide, illuminating the darkness and drawing a map to divine truth. Of course, the Hermit's divine truth also comes from within her own soul, and so the light of the Star will reflect and shine through the Hermit. With this sort of partnership, the two will be like a lantern for all others to follow, leading those around them down a profoundly spiritual path.
Velo and Gorudak — Wheel of Fortune (10) and Hanged Man (12)
This is a story all about how his life got flipped, turned upside down. ... okay, no, but seriously. There's a story I really like about the Monkey King — despite being unrivaled in earthly power, he was challenged to escape from the Buddha's palm, and could not. That's more or less the image this creates, where the Hanged Man has realized he cannot stop the turbulent higher powers of the Wheel, and he can only wait until they're done with him. And let's face it, if luck was in his favor, he probably wouldn't be in a position where he's trying to minimize his losses. So, yeah, that sucks? But the Hanged Man is also an observant force, and gets to enjoy insights no other can. And the Wheel, despite looking incomprehensible to most, is filled with patterns that can be picked out by a keen eye. There may be flashes of wisdom, visions crucial and prophetic. So even if he never wanted to play this game (and believe me, he really did not), he can take heart in knowing he might walk away with a rare prize.
Velo and Varis — Wheel of Fortune (10) and Tower (16)
Oh, geez. Oh, man. These two synergize in a truly worrisome way. Both delve deeply into the powers of fate beyond mortal control, one of destruction and loss and one of chance and fluctuation. The good news is that chaos is nothing if not dynamic, and the Wheel seems to have a slight bias towards success. It could very well spin the circumstances of the Tower, where that loss is just the first domino to fall in a chain reaction towards something amazing. On the other hand, it could be the Wheel that pushed the Tower over in the first place, and this combination is the omen of a terrible cataclysm. Be mindful of what's happening, and familiarize yourself with the emergency exits, because the stakes are definitely going to be raised.
Velo and Naeris — Wheel of Fortune (10) and Star (17)
Now here, on the other hand, the combination is the pure embodiment of a lucky Star, a good omen bordering on the wondrous. The Star is already renowned in the deck for its powers of blessing, and how it generously rewards our hopes and dreams. And now it's working in alignment with the Wheel, a mighty engine of karmic energy which brings forth incredible, almost unbelievable circumstances into our lives. Since the Star also provides guidance, it's as if the element of risk is washed out, as even the worst outcome would be illuminated by reassuring hope. But really, this is far more likely to bring forth joy and miracles. Dreams can come true, so go ahead and believe in them, you beautiful, precious Star child.
Gorudak and Varis — Hanged Man (12) and Tower (16)
Let's see. One is an overpowering negative force, and the other is a suggestion that surrender is an option, that a temporary failure may spare you from a greater one. Gee, this spells a message loud and clear: Cut your losses. Don't dwell on what could have been, just accept that some things can't be fixed. And honestly, maybe they shouldn't be? The Tower cannot stand forever, in every possible sense. Eventually, every fire and every storm will die down. The Hanged Man tells you to sit down and shut up, wait for the dust to settle. Save your strength for where it will actually do some good. And yes, there will be such a place and time — if there's a positive way to spin this, it's the element of the breakthrough. The Tower is the cosmic equivalent of the conquering Chariot, which hints at its potential as an unrivaled weapon... if only we aren't the one stuck in its crosshairs. Hang back and wait, as the Hanged Man does, and it can clear away your greatest obstacles.
Gorudak and Naeris — Hanged Man (12) and Star (17)
It's easy to feel bad for the Hanged Man. To most, his situation seems to be one mired in failure, where the entire world is against him and has forced him into this powerless state. But the precious Star knows better, seeing that this was the man's insightful choice, one he has accepted as the best option available. No matter how the desperate the circumstances, this is a man who has lost everything but hope, who won't be moved by the chains of the Devil or fear of Death. Instead, he watches and waits for new opportunities. And the Star is watching him in turn, taking delight in how it almost looks like he's standing with her in the cosmos. She sees how his sacrifice plays in the grand scheme, the role he has accepted in a greater destiny. It will not be in vain. She'll grant him good karma, and see his moral actions rewarded.
Varis and Naeris — Tower (16) and Star (17)
Another dichotomy. This is a meeting of the forces of destruction and creation, the left and right hands of destiny. These two powers keep the world in continuous motion, as the pendulum of fate swings back and forth ceaselessly. Storms will be followed by rainbows, and the Tower's wrath can only last for so long. When it fades, the Star's creative energy will find a field upon which to grow. That's the order we expect — but don't forget, this can be so easily reversed. Disaster can strike suddenly and fiercely, and who is less prepared for it than the gentle optimist? Neither will ever overcome the other. But maybe that's because they're never actually at odds, much like a sunset is not a battle between day and night. The two move in balance, creating a grand motion of change that cannot even be interrupted by the random, chaotic Wheel. Pay attention to the world around you, heed the ebb and flow of these energies. Seek to understand them, learn to move between them, make your decisions accordingly. Reaction is the key word, as these are both cosmic forces, and thus the situation is in karma's hands.