Emberwing Phoenix

Emberwing Phoenixes are rare birdlike creatures of pure elemental fire. They embody transformation, renewal, and the eternal cycle of life and, therefore, are often revered as symbols for those natural cyclic processes in many cultures.

Basic Information

Ecology and Habitats

Emberwing phoenixes are drawn to fire and heat. They live in volcanic calderas within the most remote, active volcanic regions. In some cases, they also are present near or in pools and streams of lava.
They build fiery nests out of volcanic ash and other fireproof materials in their living area. The nests are primarily located at the upper edge of the volcanic caldera but can also be found nestled within the heart of lava caves.

Biological Cycle

Emberwing phoenixes undergo a cyclic transformation of immolating themselves and resurrection from their ashes.
When the current cycle comes to an end, the phoenix ascends to the highest peak of the most active volcano in its territory to ignite itself into a burst of flames within one of the volcanic eruptions. The essence of the phoenix gets absorbed into flame droplets while its physical body is consumed by the fires turning into ash. A new emberwing phoenix rises from the ashes shortly after the flames die out.

Additional Information

Social Structure

The phoenixes lead a solitary life for the major part of their eternal lifecycle as they prefer to perform their rituals undisturbed. Each forms a territory often encompassing the whole volcanic region that they mark with smoldering symbols within the lava rocks. These markings also act as beacons and communicative measures towards other phoenixes to inform them that this volcanic area is already taken.
In rare cases, multiple emberwing phoenixes gather within one volcanic area for the so-called Convergence of Flames. This gathering only takes place if multiple phoenixes undergo their cyclical transformation simultaneously.

Uses, Products & Exploitation

There are two items that can be gathered from the phoenixes by brave adventurers:

1. The fiery feathers.
2. The phoenix tears

The feathers are believed to be imbued with the essence of fire and purification, making them a highly sought-after item by alchemists and enchanters seeking to harness fire's elemental power. They can also be used as material for enchanted weapons or potent fire spells. Owning an emberwing phoenix feather is considered a great honor and a symbol of bravery and wisdom throughout most sapient species of Etherial.
The phoenix tears can be acquired from the emberwing phoenix during its cyclical immolation and resurrection.

Facial characteristics

The beak and talons radiate a searing heat allowing it to ignite flammable objects to its will. While flying, it leaves behind a fiery contrail similar to the one of a comet.

Lifespan

immortal, cyclic

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

The fiery plumage features colors ranging from vibrant oranges and reds to deep crimson and golden hues. The individual feathers emit a warm glow, creating a luminous effect that can be seen from afar.

Related Materials

• Phoenix Tears