Levitation Stone
For the affluent and powerful, an alternative method exists to traverse the swirling sands of the desert.
These are known as levitation stones, or crystals, which readily accept and retain a levitation spell for an extended duration. These crystals, resembling unassuming stones, were initially mistaken for such. In contrast to the Zepphracus Crystals that make contact with the sand, levitation stones are positioned a foot or two above the ground within sturdy support structures, designed not only to maintain their placement but also to deter theft.
The journey with levitation stones is notably smoother, allowing for considerably higher speeds, given the absence of sand friction. Being slightly elevated above the ground levels out minor bumps in the terrain and renders sharp rocks and jagged edges irrelevant.
Much like Zapphracus Crystals , levitation stones originate from the lightning storms that periodically sweep the desert. Hunters and scavengers frequently venture out immediately after a storm passes, competing to collect both types of crystals. Tempers can flare in the quest for these valuable resources, but levitation stones command a significantly higher price and necessitate more discernment and expertise in their safe extraction.
However, a word of caution is in order. When sweat, containing water, sodium (Na), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg), comes into contact with a Levitation Stone, an explosive reaction occurs, sending individuals and would-be hunters scurrying for safety. Many novice crystal hunters have met their demise through this volatile encounter. Those equipped with arcane talents, such as the Mage Hand, or tools with extended prongs, are highly sought after for this endeavor. Levitation stones bear a striking resemblance to the ordinary stones of the region, but one distinguishing feature is their ability to subtly vibrate the sand around them and rest just fractions of an inch above the surface, levitated by the sand itself. Arcanists employ ancient rituals to enchant these stones with the Levitation spell, elevating them the final foot or two above the sands.
A small stone can easily fetch hundreds of gold pieces, while larger specimens may command thousands. However, a note of caution to potential buyers or exporters—levitation stones lose their properties outside the desert sands, as their unique characteristics are intrinsically tied to the composition of the desert's sand.
Utility
Very rich people sometimes uses the stones to create explosive traps, bursting a bubble of salt and water over the stones making them go boom.
Manufacturing
An arcanist can use an ancient old ritual to enchant it with the Levitation spell.
Parent Technologies
Access & Availability
After a storm passes, about 90% of the crystals created are common Sand Crystals, remaining 10% are levitations stone. 50% of the levitations stones are not inherently unstable and blows up unexpectedly due to the interaction with water and salts of the storm.
Discovery
It takes experienced and skilled hunters a long time to learn to correctly and safely identify and harvest a levitation stones.
Related Vehicles
Comments