The Ugly Grotto
This cave system received its name in ages past. Perhaps at some point in time The Ugly Grotto really filled its name out well, but that time is long past. Nestled against the shores of the Aether Sea, this cave system has become home to a diverse multitude of flora and fauna. Tucked away from the happenings of the world, but not immune to them, The Ugly Grotto was quick to be contaminated by The Rupture . At one time, this grotto was networks of spring fed pools. Even now, if you go deep enough you may find something untouched by Aether, but it is truly just a chance.
Geography
Nestled up against the Aether Sea, The Ugly Grotto is a cave easily mistaken for a cove. While there is an area of sheltered sea, the inlet actually empties into a smaller pool and tiered spring system fed from the underground rivers. At some point in history, part of the cavern gave way into more cave system beneath the initial pool, causing it to have waterfalls on either side of the main chamber. Spring water rushes from one side, while aether sea water rushes from the other to mingle in the aquifer below. The caves on the spring water side are pockets of pools that have since been leeched through with aether and have started to foster their own wonders.
Fauna & Flora
The Ugly Grotto is absolutely rich with a diverse host of flora and fauna. Most creatures from here have formed some sort of bio-luminescence as a means of blending in with the aether rich water. It is nearly impossible to find a creature within that doesn't glow in one way or another. The average person would even say that the rocks glow in the grotto.
Glow stones do, however, have a practical purpose. They shed light in all directions around them. It is a pale light but in groups of 5 or 6 small half a fist sized nodules, they are capable of shedding light as bright as a torch.
Glow Stones
Glow stones come in all strengths and intensities and are found in multiple colors as well. While initial look might take the stones as actual rocks, the fact of the matter is that they are a form of hard, stone-like coral. This coral has learned to thrive on a algae that is endemic in the grotto. This algae acts as a food source for the little chunks of coral and is slowly consumed until there is simply no more food. With enough exposure to the aether in which the algae uses for energy, the coral could glow and survive indefinitely. If removed from the environment, eventually the algae will be unable to continue reproduction and the coral will go into a hibernation like state where they will eventually also die.Glow stones do, however, have a practical purpose. They shed light in all directions around them. It is a pale light but in groups of 5 or 6 small half a fist sized nodules, they are capable of shedding light as bright as a torch.
History
Originally The Ugly Grotto was a nice swimming spot hidden away from prying eyes that could easily be used for a fresh source of water. After The Rupture, this beautiful little cave system has been cast aside and forgotten long enough for it to foster its own complex ecosystem out of the prying eyes and contaminating touch of Humans.
Type
Cave System
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