Zodiac Chess
Zodiac chess was a game played by students at the Greannmhar School of Magic.
Origin and History
The exact origin and history of zodiac chess are unknown, but it is safe to assume that it shares no common origin with regular chess. The game, in some form or variant, can be traced back to the 10th century, where it likely emerged from a form of horoscope-based divination.
Rules
The rules for zodiac chess are complicated. Each player has 13 pieces, one for each zodiac: Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Ophiuchus, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces. While the pieces constantly circle around the board, each piece can move radially in a different manner.
- Ophiuchus' movement is determined by the opponent's ascendent in relation to one's own ascendent. As most people are not aware of their ascendent, players usually determine the movement of their Ophiuchus by dice movement.
- Cancer has a habit of pinching players. It is thus typically only moved when absolutely necessary.
- Virgo tends to produce an ear-piercing scream when the piece is taken. Taking the piece is thus generally avoided.
Trivia
- Lycia Wintergale tried to learn the game in her first year at Greannmhar, but lost interest after Cancer pinched her finger several times.