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And now, in a continuing service, an entry from the Encyclopedia Ardrisia.
Primordial Elements
Terr. Aer. Fajr. Aquo. These are the names of the Inner Planes, each corresponding to a classical element (earth, air, fire and water, respectively). In isolated areas of each one of these planes (and their affiliated quasi-planes such as Ashfrakseno, Voerhal, Laforni, and Vapistor, to name a few), there are small naturally occurring deposits of matter that embody the primordial essence of that plane. These primordial elements maintain a constant link with their plane of origin and are extraordinarily rare. They are most commonly sought out as components for powerful spells, although they also have their mundane uses.
• Primordial fire cannot be extinguished by any means and will burn through all but the sturdiest materials.
• Primordial earth can be used in farming, making fields incredibly fertile or as a component in building nigh-impregnable structures like forts, castles and convenience stores;
• Bottles of primordial air or water can be used as constantly replenishing supplies of air or water, respectively.
Likewise, primordial ice will never melt and will freeze all but the most insulated of materials, while primordial lightning is an artificer's joy, providing power for their contraptions that circumvents magic altogether.There have been rumors for centuries that a fifth Inner Plane, called the Plane of Heart, exists. This concept is often (and quite rightly) scoffed at by the world of Academia, including the High Dean of Kilanio University, who proclaimed the idea to be "lame."
The Encyclopedia Ardrisia , volume 21 (Owlbadger to Psuedomen), Kilanio University Press, 48th edition.
Nice references to Avatar: the Last Airbender and Captain Planet and the Planeteers in the encyclopedia entries.
Should rumors of primal “heart” are found to be true it could potential grant near immortality or extremely good health. Legend has it should all the primal elements be used at once the legendary guardian Captain Planar could be summoned. This is just a legend, but it’s nice to tell kids at bed time.
That’s the term I was looking for last strip when I resorted to ‘potent magic items’ – primordial (element). There was a module in the 2nd edition D&D (not AD&D) Immortals ruleset that involved primordial earth. One of the properties was that if it a biological creature came in contact with it, the primordial earth would fuse with them and plants would start growing from the spot – usually an unpleasant experience.
Reminds me of the time the most precious thing in the hoard turned out to be the little jar of spicy-smelling lotion.
Except that possessing it was a capital offense.
I’m glad we have these encyclopedia entries instead of entries from something like “The Hitchhikers’ Guide to the Planes”… oh… oh, no. I just gave you an idea, didn’t I?
A flying boat would make UNAC 47 a more valuable asset to the king. It would certainly allow them to have a much larger place to store loot and make travel easier across long distances.
Valid point. A flying boat would be more of a genuine investment in increased capabilities than bling-covered hogs…
…assuming the flying boat is controllable when in the air, of course.