Zapphracus Crystals

Written by DoStuffZ

Traversing the expansive and ever-changing terrain of shifting sands and capricious dust devils demands specialized equipment.
At the forefront of these tools are the Zapphracus Crystals, playing a pivotal role as the lifeblood of desert ships. These unique crystals exhibit a peculiar effect of transmutation, creating a captivating dynamic with the sand. At the delicate juncture where crystal meets sand, a visible transmutation occurs, causing the sand to crystallize or glassify, resulting in a slick surface. This mesmerizing interaction enables the ships to gracefully glide over a virtually frictionless terrain. The transmutation is temporary, necessitating a mechanism to keep the vessel afloat, lest the relentless shifting and swirling sands encroach and gradually lead to its submersion.
However, there is a caveat to this ingenious solution. As the desert ship gains speed and gracefully skims over the sand, the whirling grains create a sandpaper-like effect. Over time, this abrasive action slowly erodes the ship's structure and stone components. The consequence is the need for periodic replacements to maintain the vessel's integrity.
The Zapphracus Crystals are commonly arranged in a linear formation, resembling a graceful dance over the sandy expanse. When these crystals eventually succumb to the rigors of travel, shattering under the impact of the unforgiving sand, various solutions come into play. Some methods incorporate readily replaceable components designed to yield under sudden impact, safeguarding the core structure. Others utilize a secondary layer that offers a gentler deceleration, limiting the extent of sandpapering endured by the primary components.
A common and practical approach to this conundrum is to craft the lower section of the ship with a subtle curvature. By raising the Zapphracus Crystals above their usual level, the ship can gently rest upon the sand's surface. This innovation mitigates the relentless sandpaper effect and preserves the vessel's structural integrity.
For those seeking a more advanced and opulent solution, elevation stones come into play. These precious stones possess the remarkable ability to elevate the entire ship, suspending it one to two feet above the ever-shifting sands. This not only shields the vessel from the harsh impacts of the dunes but also offers a smoother, more indulgent journey. Those without the luxury of elevation stones must navigate with caution, maintaining a ready stock of spare components and charting less demanding routes, avoiding abrupt terrain shifts to safeguard their vessel from damage.
Note: The very best of scouts can spot and follow the remnants of this effect in the sand.

Children Technologies

• Levitation Stone

Access & Availability

Rather common, the lightning storms strikes the sand creating the crystals.