Embervale Museum Exhibits

Draconis Communis

Over 1000 years old

Embervale - Nomad Highlands; Umber Hollow

Dragons are perhaps the earliest known inhabitants of Embervale. Traces of their reign can still be discovered in the Nomad Highlands, the Kindlewastes, and the Albaneve Summits, from where they seem to originate.

Our approximation of their origin and subsequent migratory patterns is based on the occurrence and density of ivory samples.

These winged and long-extinct giants are presumed to be the ancestors of Vultures, and perhaps even the Drak.

The displayed specimen was discovered at the bottom of the once-water-filled Umber Hollow. It was retrieved from beneath the wing bones of a similar but larger and severely fractured skeleton, presumably damaged by meteorite impacts. It is due to this presumed sacrifice that the remains of our Common Dragon could be preserved and exhibited today.

Location: Embervale (East)

Climate: Dry, Arid. (Formerly: Lush.)

Precipitation: No recent data.

Flora & Fauna:

The Kindlewastes are a vast desert expanse of amber dunes and wind-swept plains. Though our kind would consider the local temperatures comfortable, they are interpreted as harsh and even hostile by local life forms.

Once a thriving, verdant ecosystem, the region now supports only the hardiest animals, including the elusive Dune Armadillo, carrion-feeding Draconian Vultures, and the ephemeral Humans.

Geological & Mineral Data

Beneath the barren surface lies a wealth of natural resources, with deposits of iron, sulfur, lapis, and vast reserves of ancient ivory preserved beneath the sands.

Summary:

The Kindlewastes remain the largest terraforming experiment ever attempted, a monumental undertaking following the incident. Today, they stand as a testament to the rift between failure and success — and the resilience found within.

Location: Embervale (South West)

Climate: Continental, Mild

Precipitation: Around 700 mm annually

Flora & Fauna:

The welcoming wilds of the springlands harbor a plethora of ecological species. Temperatures in this biosphere remain relatively constant throughout the year, thereby facilitating the ideal conditions for a thriving, stable ecosystem.

Hophares and wolves are common wildlife sightings, but some Vukah tribes have recently settled here, too. Berries, mushrooms, and tomatoes create the basis of every herbivore's diet.

Geological & Mineral Data

Resource variety is seemingly poor. Only common minerals and rocks, such as salt and flintstone, can be obtained here.

Summary:

The verdant fields of the Springlands are considered pleasant and quiet by most. Due to their temperate nature and well-preserved biodiversity, they serve as a still frame of a perfectly balanced habitat.

Location: Embervale (Mid-West)

Climate: Continental, Humid

Precipitation: Around 1200 mm annually

Flora & Fauna:

This biosphere is rich in a variety of hardwood species and wildlife. The thick underbrush and dense canopy deserve special attention, as they shelter countless insects, and most notably, arachnids.

Alongside the many muddied pathways, strawberries, chamomile, flax, and indigo plants foster a fragrant and colorful environment. Despite this enticing pull of the bosque, it is advised not to wander off the pathways. Boars roam in the forest, aggressively defending their farrowing nests and young.

Geological & Mineral Data

Alongside the many mossy cliff faces, wanderers are likely to find bright orange deposits of clay, copper, and, at lower levels, amber.

Summary:

The overgrown wilds of the Revelwood teem with life and mystery. Anyone brave enough to venture off the beaten path will be able to find proverbial "pearls" in the mud. Still, it is imperative not to be caught off guard by sudden rainfall or hungry, feral pigs.

Location: Embervale (Centre)

Climate: Semi-arid

Precipitation: Around 350 mm annually

Flora & Fauna:

Plant growth here is limited to select areas wherein the ground can retain adequate moisture. Within the pale green fields that dot the Nomad Highlands, travellers may encounter sugar cane and bell pepper plants, as well as Flightless Redtails, which feed on their seeds.

The local birdlife produces nutritious eggs, which serve as excellent sources of protein for the primary predators: Sabertooth Tigers and Humans.

Geological & Mineral Data

The region presents both flat plains and staggering differences in altitude. The biosphere is undercut with an underground river network that converges on a former lake (Umber Hollow), which was caused by a large meteorite impact.

Summary:

The Highlands are equidistant to both the Revelwood and the Kindlewastes — serving as a transitional space between the very humid and extensively dry climates, respectively. The central location and easily traveled upper layer have elevated the area to a bustling trade hub that hides many riches in the forgotten caverns below.

Location: Embervale (North East)

Climate: Alpine

Precipitation: From 500 mm (leeward) to 2000 mm (windward)

Flora & Fauna:

The frigid summits are defined by low to sub-zero temperatures, which cover the local peaks in thick layers of snow. Below the frost, only a few species dare to thrive. Yaks have proven resilient to the climate due to their insulating coat of fur. Their biggest adversary is not the cold, but the Cyclops that roam the bluffs looking for a feast to roast.

Geological & Mineral Data

Many rare earths and minerals can be found in the mountains. Red marble, amethyst, and even ancient deposits of obsidian hide deep within the rock.

Summary:

The freezing cold of the summits is considered unpleasant, if not hostile, by most lifeforms (especially ours!) Still, between snow-covered fields and the aurora borealis dancing above, life persists.

Location: Embervale (North West)

Climate: Tropical, Marine

Precipitation: Around 3000 mm annually

Flora & Fauna:

The Veilwater Basin is characterized by crystal lakes and lush ecological variety. The rivulets teem with fish, and docile species such as the capybara can be encountered enjoying bananas and coconuts by the shore.

Despite this bliss, considerable dangers lurk below the water. The Basin was previously home to the Drak'Dal, a subspecies or tribe of the Drak. Their temples and altars may be no more than flooded ruins, but as a highly territorial species, they may eventually attempt to reclaim their old hunting grounds.

Geological & Mineral Data

The coastal region is rich with gold, nacre, and pearls. Unfortunatly, many resources are buried beneath the water's surface, requiring eager gatherers to expose themselves to the elements.

Summary:

The Veilwater Basin may appear like a paradise at first, but its foreboding history may yet reveal a dark future. Nevertheless, the area remains a fascinating botanical playground with an endless amount of genetic material to probe.