The Emergence
Location
The Emergence is a phenomenon unique to the Empire Ocean. Animals that can only survive in summers or winters will hibernate within the cave systems of meteors, as these caves have consistent temperaturs that all creatures can tolerate.Seasonal Hibernation
Summer Hibernation
Animals that hibernate during summers and are present in winters are usually larger than ones that hibernate during winters, as they lose less heat. Since there is less space for these animals to hibernate, more of them will just die off during summers. Those that get to hibernate have to reproduce more frequently and for that reason there is no set mating season for these animals.Winter Hibernation
More animals get to hibernate during winters, so the hunting season during summers last longer. Because the water can get too cold during winters, some animals will create nests within these cave systems to keep themselves warm. Some will create their own cocoons, where water keeps flowing through to help them breathe but also conserves heat.Hunting
Twice a year, during every Emergence, large groups of auphwei will go hunting. As the new seasons bring out lots of creatures, the auphwei celebrate by hunting them down. Summers are more popular to the people, thanks to the emerging of the zarjgs, large blind fish. These fish have been hunted almost to extinction by the auphwei, and now are a rare delicacy you'll only find at the most important meals.
Unfortunately, it seems the auphwei do not care that the hunts are affecting the ecosystems, for they have not slowed down at all. Each year, more advanced technologies are used to rake in more and more animals, that are then slowly eaten throughout the year until they go on their next hunting spree at the next Emergence. Only recently have the auphwei used the food they catch as a trade resource with other planets, since they often waste a large amount of it.
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