Larimus
The Angel of Motherhood, Family, and the Home
The Angel Larimus, also known as Mother To All, The First Mother, Creator, Kindred, or simply Larimus, is one of the twelve angels who created Middengeard. When she arrived in the world on the isle of Midden, she became a midwife and counsellor, dispensing her knowledge to couples and families. Before departing, Larimus gave her gift to the King and Queen of Midden. It is from them, it is said, that all Magi rulers are descended.
Larimus is the twin sister of Lucian. Together they represent life and death or the beginning and opening of the circle. Larimus' month, Larimis, is the first of the year, with many followers using this period to reconnect with family and friends.
Lore and Doctrine
The Lore of Larimus can be found in the The Book. Her tales revolve around the preservation of her original creation of mankind and provide advice for relationships that are still followed to this day. Her lore has been analysed over the centuries by specialist Larimite Theologians who have created a doctrine based on her tales. This is the same doctrine delivered by Clerics to their flock.
Creating Middengeard
When Larimus left the Garden with the other angels to explore the mysteries of the universe, they discovered a void, within which they created the world of Middengeard. After the lands were created, Larimus gathered some clay and began to mould people, creating mankind. She designed mankind and gave them hearts and souls so they may know love, duty, honour and compassion. Larimus wanted a rounded society, populated by a spectrum of wealth, intelligence and ethnicities so she gave each man different capacities, for intelligence and wealth, and asked Athelros to divide them further by language. Back in the Garden, Larimus continued to watch her people grow, learning from their interactions.
Lessons Learnt- When the angels discovered the void, it was unstructured, empty, and lacked purpose. Their love and dedication filled the void and gave it order and worth, creating Middengeard. Similarly, people, places, things, or events, if they lack structure and purpose, they are as a void, but with structure, supplied by love and dedication, they are ordered and have worth.
- When Larimus moulded people from clay, she designed us to her divine plan, therefore we should honour our bodies as gifts from Larimus herself, keep them healthy, and avoid altering with body modifications.
- Our emotions come from Larimus, it is what sets us apart as humans. She wants us to have relationships, but within the boundaries of social groups, as she designed.
- A rounded society is made up of a diverse group. We can not all be Kings, and we can not all be slaves. It is important for an effective society that there is a mixture that will fill all roles in society.
- As our bodies are designed by Larimus, so are our social boundaries. We should accept them and take pride in them as we are part of Larimus' divine plan.
Arrival in Midden
Tired of just observing, Larimus left the Garden with the other angels to partake in life in Middengeard. They arrived on an island at the centre of the world, Midden, and integrated themselves into society, keeping their true nature secret. Larimus became a midwife and relationship counsellor, choosing to help begin a new life and to improve the marriages of those who sought her help
Lessons Learnt- The angels are active participants in our lives, even when they are in the Garden, they are still actively watching and observing each of us, whether we are poor or rich.
- As angels and the creators of society, they had the advantage of choosing how they should integrate. Interestingly all of the angels chose the role of professional and were esteemed in their fields. As the angels chose to work, so should all of mankind. Unemployment does not allow integration into society.
- Within her role of midwifery and relationship counselling, Larimus choose to go beyond the expectations of her role, and do her duty. We should approach work with the same attitude, striving to improve the world, even in a small local way.
The Noble Mother
Larimus was asked to attend a wealthy noblewoman in her childbirth. The noblewoman lived in a grand house. She had married well a man of similar noble birth and appearance and was loyal to his name. They had waited before having children, to make sure the house was proper and suitable for them. The noblewoman was kind and gracious, never cursing, and thanked Larimus for coming, but it was clear that she was terrified. Larimus placed her hand on the woman's heart, calming her nerves instantly. The birth was painless, and a healthy boy, who could continue the noble line, was produced.
Lessons LearntMistake of Youth
A young couple greets Larimus in the street and announces their engagement, imagining that Larimus would be pleased for them, but instead, she is disgusted. Though Larimus saw excellent qualities in both as individuals. she was the daughter of a politician, and he was the son of an artisan, so their social castes did not match. The young couple respected Larimus' word and broke off their engagement. Shortly after, a mayor visited from a nearby town, and the woman married him, while the man married the daughter of a potter. Both couples found greater joy in their new coupling and lived long and happy lives.
Lessons LearntMarriage Endures
A married couple sought Larimus' advice. Neither is happy in their relationship. The man complains that he is denied pleasure by his wife, and the woman complains that her husband is lazy. Larimus scolds the woman, telling her it is her duty as a wife to defer to her husband and in the house, the husband has ultimate authority. She advises the man to seek pleasure elsewhere if needed, and if his wife continues to not show respect, to beat her. Marriage is for life and must endure.
Lessons LearntThe Fallen Woman
A daughter of a drover comes to see Larimus. She is due to give birth, but when Larimus asks about her home, her husband, and the payment for Larimus' assistance, the girl confesses she is homeless, she has no idea who the father is, and she has no money. Larimus says she will take the child as payment and makes her disappointment in the woman's nature clear. She accepts and is very apologetic for her behaviour. Larimus offers no pain relief, to teach the girl not to do this again. The child is left with Larimus, who is brought up to serve in her household.
Lessons LearntThe Proposal
A noble gentleman attempts to pursue Larimus' hand, but she denies him at every turn, for while she enjoys his company, she knows that they are not compatible. Lucian suggests that she should accept his proposal, but never go through with the marriage. Brevus tells her to enjoy the affections of the man, so she will not wonder about what could have been. Larimus ignores both and continues to pursue her friendship with the young man, only to realise that she is falsely leading him on, as her brother told her too, and that if he continues to love her, then he will never love someone truly deserving, and so she ends the relationship and cuts off all contact.
Lessons LearntThe Perfect Home
Larimus was asked by a woman she was counselling, what the perfect home should look like. Larimus responded that the house itself could be of any size or shape, as long as there is room enough for all to sleep, eat, and bathe. What makes a home are its residents. As in society, a home should have structure. The eldest male is the natural authority figure, for he will possess a calm intellect and a logical mind. His authority is followed closely by the eldest woman, whose practical understanding of household duties will keep a neat and orderly life. The youngest member of the household is the least experienced so they should learn from and respect their elders. So it is in the home, so it is in life.
Lessons Learnt- Larimus creates a blueprint for any house of any wealth, ethnicity or social class. The levels of authority always remain the same
- The same blueprint can be extended to society
- Society is established as male Magi, female Magi, male humans, female humans, and then within each area, further divided by class, which is determined by parents, education, and work. (Nightwalkers are more feared than respected and live in a parallel society. Ananan are not considered part of society at all. Their society is significantly less hierarchical)
- To be in charge is an active role, they have ultimate responsibility for everyone under their charge and must ensure everyone is looked after and is healthy.
The Gift
Larimus and the other angels decide that it is time to leave Middengeard and return to the Garden. Before leaving, to make their true nature known, each angel gifts Aether magic to the two people who they believe best represent their qualities and will honour their gifts. Larimus chooses the King and Queen of Midden, converting them from humans into Magi. She asks in her absence, that they continue to uphold her beliefs.
Lessons Learnt- A King and Queen are like the parents of a country. They are the head, to which all respect is shown, and their word, in turn, should be respected
- From the King and Queen, all leaders of countries in the Cosmos faith are descended. They are divinely chosen to lead
- As the head of society, they have active roles of duty and responsibility to their citizens as parents
- The gift of Aether is in itself a responsibility. It should be responsibly used and respected, for good.
Characteristics
Larimus has several recognisable elements that can be seen in art and sculpture, and are sometimes featured in rituals and other practices to connect with the angel.
Larimus' Influence on Culture
The teachings of Larimis has had many direct, and indirect effects on the culture of those living in Cosmos practising countries.
Symbolism and Rituals
- Carnations symbolise motherly love and protection and are often hung above a crib, or placed as a wreath upon a bride's head by her mother.
- Rose geranium is used as a scent to evoke calm and comfort. It is the chief smell when entering the Temple of Larimus, but it can also be detected in homes during Larimis, and when feelings of familial warmth want to be created.
- Rose quartz is used in jewellery for brides and new mothers to provide emotional balance and to soothe anxieties
- Yellow is the usual colour of wedding dresses and signifies dedication and sanctity.
Family and Relationships
- Seeking counselling for relationships is standard practice, while divorces are only permitted in the most exceptional circumstances.
- Wives are expected to behave loyally and dutifully. If they fail to please their husbands, the man can seek pleasure and comfort elsewhere.
- Children must honour and respect their parents.
Society and Friendships
- There are social boundaries for maintaining order and restricting intimate relationships and friendships across the caste systems. While people can, and often must, associate themselves with others, not in their hierarchy bracket or ethnicity, they can only pick partners from within their pool, or face the wrath of their local community.
- This also extends to the workplace and wider society, where respect must be given to those in positions of authority.
- During Larimis, families and friends who may have grown distant, take the time to reach out to each other. Gifts for the home are usually given between households.
- Communities are self-disciplined. If they suspect someone is denying the expectations set out by Larimis, the community will usually work together to change this.
Art and Architecture
- Larimus' likeness is often used as the representative of the 'mother' figure in art, sculpture and books.
- Cuckoos are regularly featured as the symbol of life (and death).
- As one of the most popular temples, The Temple of Larimus is in most towns and cities, and each temple contains local artwork dedicated to Larimus herself.
Science and Education
- Midwifery and paediatrics, emphasising children's safe birth and care has a long and historic importance.
- All medical staff related to the delivery and care of children must be registered as Larimites and are recognisable by their yellow uniforms.
- In honour of Larimus, many Magis have dedicated their study to ways to assist better and improve childbirth and the development of children.
- During Larimis, children make gifts for the home in school. These gifts are to show respect for the home, and must be of relevance to the family.
Governance and Economics
- Larimus established a divine and respected royal lineage by gifting magic to the King and Queen of Midden, from whom all royalty in the Cosmos faith are descended.
- Before starting a family, financial stability must be established. This is also supported by the teachings of Merinosis.
- Society encourages active participation to discourage unemployment, and communities will come together to help those needing work.
Part of a series on Cosmos
AngelsCosmos
The Garden
- The Angel Larimus
- Mother Middengeard
- Mother To All
- The First Mother
- Creator
- Kindred
- Yellow
- Carnations
- Rose Geranium
- Rose Quartz
- Cuckoo
Larimis
Earth
- Midwives
- Mothers
- Brides
- Nurses
- Counsellors
Mantra for LarimusHear me, Mother, strengthen my heart, and calm my soul. Though I am afraid, I live to honour thee. Though I am small, I was made by your hands. Though I am weak, Your guidance gives me courage.
"I find people's attitudes to Larimus some of the greatest ironies. She makes the world filled with different people, from different cultures, but then made everyone massive racists. I wonder what her thinking was there."
"It's what I always want: a perfect family. My family is far from perfect. It does not follow Larimus' instructions at all, and it shows. My parents argue, there is rarely respect, and I am ignored. When I become a husband, I will try to live as Larimus instructs. There must be truth in it."
Aeryn DeSteffen
"I remember when I was younger, before all this, I would take comfort in the words of Larimus. She taught me how to be a girl, how I should be a wife, and how I am meant to be a mother. I then I lived my life, and realised that there are no instructions that can help with any of that."
"It's the ultimate design, is it not? To create new life, to continue the bloodline. As the future queen, I think about that aspect a lot. The other thing is that I feel physically, magically, a deep connection to Larimus. Afterall, she gave my ancestors the gift of aether, and instructed them to honour her with it. I pray I will honour Larimus in turn."
Janavier Rance
"Well, I'm divorced, so that probably tells you something about how much I listened to Larimus. I wasn't a good husband. I was a worst father. I should have worked at it, but instead, I hid away and had fun, because all that was for me at home were arguments. I didn't want to argue. Hmm, maybe my wife... ex-wife, should have listened to Larimus too."
Ari
"Probably shouldn't talk about this, but the few times I have, you know... done the... you know... thing, I ain't liked it, and I ain't ever remember wanting it cos I was so frightened that I'd end up with a baby, and not in a proper way. I've seen girls die from it. Maybe one day me master will see fit to find me a suitable lad, make an honest woman out of me, then I will be happy to be a mum."
"I turned to Larimus, after Jerome passed. I didn't know what to do, how to be a mother, alone. How to have a family, without a husband. I prayed, and she told me to live for my daughter. She is my child, and I should not want to seek another man, for I am a mother.
Pearl Lightly
"I want it. Some people don't believe that about me, but I want it, to become the wife and mother... and then, the few times I have tried, I will admit, I have struggled. I need someone who matches my energy and my drive, and I question myself, and then I remember that Larimus advises that we date people who are our equals, and I realise that I am yet to find my equal."
Prince Veris
"My marriage to Galaday has been questioned often, and the teachings of this particular angel are often cited. She should marry a Magi, someone from Favont, and so forth, and I argue back, find me a Magi Prince of Favont! There has to be something said for casting the net wider. That is what makes the world a richer place when we do have differences, and we celebrate them, and mix them, and create a new thing entirely."
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